bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Emergency Nurses Providing End‐of‐Life Care During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Cowley Alysha , Morphet Julia , Crawford Kimberley
Published: January 2025

Aim

To explore the experiences of emergency nurses providing end‐of‐life care during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Data were collected between May and August 2023. Individual, semi‐structured interviews were conducted face to face or by videoconferencing with a purposive and snowballed sample of 11 emergency nurses. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

There were four main themes identified: (1) Isolation and loneliness that emergency nurses felt when providing end‐of‐life care throughout COVID‐19. (2) Comparison of Care Relating to Communication; whereby emergency nurses compared the provision of end‐of‐life care before COVID‐19 to end‐of‐life care provided during the pandemic. (3) Frustration and guilt: emergency nurses felt when providing end‐of‐life care. (4) Teamwork: participants interviewed explored the meaning of having a supportive team when providing end‐of‐life care.

Conclusions

This study explores in‐depth experiences of emergency nurses providing care to those who were dying during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This study identified that emergency nurses were impacted emotionally by providing end‐of‐life care during the pandemic, and ongoing support is likely to be needed. This study also reinforced the strength of teamwork amongst emergency nurses.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Evaluation of the endocranial anatomy of the early Paleogene north African gavialoid crocodylian Argochampsa krebsi and evolutionary implications for adaptation to salinity tolerance in marine crocodyliforms
Authors: Pligersdorffer Carly C. , Burke Paul M. J. , Mannion Philip D.
Published: January 2025

Argochampsa krebsi is a gavialoid crocodylian from the early Paleogene of North Africa. Based on its recovered phylogenetic relationship with South American species, it has been inferred to have been capable of transoceanic dispersal, but potential anatomical correlates for a marine lifestyle have yet to be identified. Based on CT scans of a mostly complete and well‐preserved skull, we reconstruct the endocranial anatomy of Argochampsa and compare it to that of other gavialoids. We demonstrate that Argochampsa possesses concave depressions on the internal surface of the prefrontals and lacrimals, which have been inferred to represent osteological correlates for salt glands in unequivocally marine metriorhynchoid thalattosuchian crocodyliforms. The presence of these salt glands suggests that Argochampsa likely frequented pelagic environments and provides additional support for the capability of transoceanic dispersal within Gavialoidea. We also newly interpret osteological correlates for salt glands in the Miocene north African gavialoid Sutekhsuchus dowsoni, providing further support that saltwater tolerance was widespread and possibly ancestral in Gavialoidea, given that they have been previously reported in the Late Cretaceous–early Paleogene species Eosuchus lerichei and Portugalosuchus azenhae. In addition to these gavialoids, as well as metriorhynchids, we also identify these osteological salt gland correlates in the Paleocene northwest African dyrosaurid Rhabdognathus aslerensis, which represents another crocodyliform lineage thought to be capable of transoceanic dispersal. Given that dyrosaurids, gavialoids, and metriorhynchoids are distantly related lineages, the evolution of salt glands is likely a convergent ecological adaptation to the occupation of pelagic environments. Nevertheless, we demonstrate limited evaluation of the presence of these osteological correlates across Crocodyliformes, including within most extant species, such that it remains possible that they are much more widespread.
The Disease and Economic Burden of HBV and HCV in Ethiopia
Authors: Voeller Alexis S. , Johannessen Asgeir , Abebe Zebideru Zewdie , Adugna Wegene , Gamkrelidze Ivane , Seyoum Eleni , Gebremedhin Lia Tadesse , Meselu Mirtie Getachew , Nigussie Seblewongel Abate , Silesh Asmamaw , Razavi Homie , Razavi‐Shearer Devin , Tirsite Ghion , Desalegn Hailemichael
Published: January 2025

As the second most populated country in Africa, Ethiopia needs public health measures to control diseases that impact its population. The goal of this study is to analyse disease burdens of HBV and HCV, while also highlighting their estimated associated costs for the country. A literature review and a Delphi process reflecting input of Ethiopian experts and the National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group were used to complement mathematical modelling to estimate HBV and HCV disease and economic burdens. Two scenarios were created for HCV: 2023 base and WHO elimination. For HBV, three scenarios were created: 2023 base, WHO elimination and universal birth dose. Using current country costs, each scenario was also examined through an economic lens. There were an estimated 7.6 million HBV infections in 2023. To impact transmission, a universal birth dose and pregnant women screening program would allow Ethiopia to vaccinate approximately 3.9 million infants annually, with a budget of $4.68 million USD, meeting the WHO prevalence elimination target (≤ 0.1% in ≤ 5‐year‐olds) by 2043. Ethiopia had an estimated 690,000 HCV infections in 2023. To achieve HCV elimination, the country would need to expand screening and treatment to 74,000 individuals annually with a peak budget of $12 million USD per year until 2032, decreasing to less than $2 million USD in 2035. Ethiopia can begin making steps towards elimination of HBV through expansion of birth dose vaccination. However, larger investments will be needed to scale‐up treatment and diagnosis interventions for both diseases.
Dynamics of a Reaction–Diffusion–Advection System From River Ecology With Inflow
Authors: Wei Jinyu , Liu Bin , Ren Guoqiang
Published: January 2025

This paper is to study the population dynamics of a single species model and a two‐species competition model from river ecology with inflow. One interesting feature in these models is that species can flow into the river through the upstream end due to advective movement while both diffusive and advective movements will cause population loss at the downstream end. We first determine necessary and sufficient conditions for persistence of a single species, in terms of the critical habitat size and the critical advection rate. For the competition model, we investigate the joint effects of advection rates, interspecific competition intensities, and boundary conditions on global dynamics of the system. It shows that the strategy of smaller advection is beneficial for species to survive. Our results partially extend the previous works.
A Nowcasting System for Hydrometeorological Hazard Assessment – Part 2: On Verification and Validation Process
Authors: Hugo Abi
Published: January 2025

This work presents a comprehensive analysis of the verification and evaluation of a system designed for forecasting hydrometeorological risks, with a specific focus on landslides and floods in a defined region. The proposed system continuously integrates real-time meteorological and hydrological data to provide precise and timely information on potential risk events. Through a meticulously conducted case study, the practical application of the system is highlighted, demonstrating its effectiveness in monitoring and forecasting risk events in real-world scenarios. The work addresses fundamental challenges associated with the validation of complex systems, emphasizing the imperative need for robust verification and validation methods. Furthermore, the unique characteristics of complex systems are discussed, and their implications for effective modeling and validation processes are elucidated. A detailed presentation of the benchmark case study results includes analyses of rainfall intensity, dynamic mapping of landslide susceptibility, river height monitoring, and forecast comparisons. These findings are complemented by visual aids in a web interface that facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the system’s performance under real conditions. Key insights are emphasized, highlighting the crucial role of the proposed system in advancing knowledge in the field of hydrometeorological risk assessment and forecasting. The conclusions succinctly summarize the main results and underscore the critical importance of systems like the proposed one in mitigating these risks.
Thermomagnetic Bioconvection Flow in a Semitrapezoidal Enclosure Filled With a Porous Medium Containing Oxytactic Micro-Organisms: Modeling Hybrid Magnetic Biofuel Cells
Authors: Venkatadri K. , Rajarajeswari P. , Anwar Bég O. , Ramachandra Prasad V. , Leonard H. J. , Kuharat S.
Published: January 2025

Hybrid fuel cells are becoming increasingly popular in 21st century energy systems engineering. These systems combine multiple features including various geometries, electromagnetic fluids, bacteria (micro-organisms), thermosolutal convection, and porous media. Motivated by these developments in the present work, we simulate the two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) natural triple convection flow in a semitrapezoidal enclosure saturated with electrically conducting water containing oxytactic micro-organisms and oxygen species. The Darcy–Brinkman model is deployed for porous media drag effects. The primitive governing partial differential conservation equations for mass, momentum, energy, oxygen species, and motile micro-organism species density are transformed using a vorticity–stream function formulation and nondimensional variables into a nonlinear boundary value problem. A numerical solution is obtained using a finite difference method with incremental time steps. The mathematical model features a number of controlling parameters, i.e., Prandtl number, Rayleigh number, bioconvective Rayleigh number, Darcy parameter, Hartmann (magnetic body force) number, Lewis number, Péclet number, oxygen diffusion ratio, and fraction of consumption oxygen to diffusion of oxygen parameter. Transport characteristics (streamlines, isotherms, oxygen isoconcentration, and motile micro-organism concentration) are computed for several of these parameters. Micro-organisms’ impact on the rate of heat transfer at the boundaries is found to be beneficial or destructive, depending on combination of other parameters in the simulations. Additionally, Nusselt number and oxygen species Sherwood number are computed at the hot vertical wall. The simulations are relevant to hybrid electromagnetic microbial fuel cells.
Curricular Innovations: Pedagogical Perspectives in Preparing the Next Generation
Authors: Castelli Darla M. , Kennedy Winston
Published: January 2025

Learning is a multifaceted process involving acquiring knowledge, skills, abilities, and dispositions. The execution of a curriculum, as it pertains to how students engage with and master subject matter, has progressed beyond the standards-based accountability reforms of the 1980s. It now encompasses more than achieving behavioral change as a singular outcome in learning experiences. The traditional Skinnerian learning objectives have given way to the contemporary lens of critical pedagogy, emphasizing the learner’s perspective, including critical race theory, feminism, and trauma-informed pedagogy. Regrettably, many accrediting bodies rely on standardized criteria as learning outcomes without considering the context or culture. In this paper, we argue that for learning to be transformative, we need to embrace integrated curricular models, which are essential and complex dimensions for learning across the lifespan. Because learning is situated, contextually grounded, and culturally relevant, our approach must transcend any single subdiscipline of kinesiology.
Fluoroquinolones and rifampin combination in the backdrop of heteroresistant tuberculosis
Authors: Vogensen Vanessa B. , Singh Sanjay , Allende Christopher J. , Engelthaler David M. , Boorgula Gunavanthi D. , Thomas Tania A. , Sturkenboom Marieke G. G. , Akkerman Onno W. , Gumbo Tawanda , Srivastava Shashikant
Published: January 2025

The impact of heteroresistance on tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes is unclear, as is the role of different rifampin and isoniazid exposures on developing resistance mutations. Hollow fiber system model of TB (HFS-TB) units were inoculated with drug-susceptible
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) and treated with isoniazid and rifampin exposure identified in a clinical trial as leading to treatment failure and acquired drug resistance. Systems were sampled for drug concentration measurements, estimation of total and drug-resistant
Mtb
, and small molecule overlapping reads (SMOR) analysis for the detection of heteroresistance. In the second HFS-TB study, systems were inoculated with an isoniazid-resistant clinical strain and treated with various combinations of isoniazid, rifampin, moxifloxacin, and levofloxacin for 28 days. Linear regression and exponential decline models were used for data analysis. Suboptimal isoniazid and rifampin exposures failed to kill drug-susceptible
Mtb
in the HFS-TB. Standard susceptibility methods failed to detect drug resistance, but SMOR detected isoniazid and rifampin heteroresistance, as well as fluoroquinolone, to which bacilli were not exposed.
rpoB
mutations arising from low rifampin exposures were Q513K and H526N, whereas those from regimen adequate rifampin but low isoniazid concentrations were S531L. Moxifloxacin-rifampin combination sterilized the HFS-TB units inoculated with the isoniazid-resistant
Mtb
in 14 days compared with 21 days of treatment with levofloxacin-rifampin, with no further emergence of drug resistance. Early detection of isoniazid and rifampin heteroresistance could provide an opportunity to individualize the therapy and protect fluoroquinolones when added to the MDR-TB treatment regimen.
Multiple sclerosis and infection: history, EBV, and the search for mechanism
Authors: SoRelle Elliott D. , Luftig Micah A.
Published: January 2025

Infection has long been hypothesized as the cause of multiple sclerosis (MS), and recent evidence for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) as the trigger of MS is clear and compelling. This clarity contrasts with yet uncertain viral mechanisms and their relation to MS neuroinflammation and demyelination. As long as this disparity persists, it will invigorate virologists, molecular biologists, immunologists, and clinicians to ascertain how EBV potentiates MS onset, and possibly the disease’s chronic activity and progression. Such efforts should take advantage of the diverse body of basic and clinical research conducted over nearly two centuries since the first clinical descriptions of MS plaques. Defining the contribution of EBV to the complex and multifactorial pathology of MS will also require suitable experimental models and techniques. Such efforts will broaden our understanding of virus-driven neuroinflammation and specifically inform the development of EBV-targeted therapies for MS management and, ultimately, prevention.
Xanthomonas citri
subsp.
citri
requires a genus-specific outer membrane protein and TolB to coordinate cell membrane integrity and virulence
Authors: Wu Leilei , Zhu Xueyan , Long Hang , Huang Xinyu , Zhu Shuying , Xue Qi , Li Ziao , Zou Huasong
Published: January 2025

Xanthomonas citri
subsp.
citri
(
Xcc
) possesses a
Xanthomonas
-specific
o
uter
m
embrane
p
rotein XAC1347 (OMP

Xan

) that exerts a role in the expression of the type III secretion system for pathogenicity. In this study, we reported that OMP

Xan

was required for salt stress tolerance and cell membrane integrity, as well as the expression of the
gum
genes for the production of extracellular polysaccharides. Pull-down and yeast two-hybrid assays revealed that OMP

Xan

interacts with TolB, a substrate of the Tol/Pal membrane protein system. The deletion of
tolB
resulted in similar phenotypic alterations as the

OMP
Xan

mutant in salt stress tolerance, cell membrane integrity, and the expression of
hrpG
,
hrpX
,
hrpD6
, and
hrcC
for pathogenicity. In contrast, the absence of TolB resulted in an increased level of expression of the
gum
genes and the production of extracellular polysaccharides. These results indicate that the interaction of OMP

Xan

and TolB coordinates multi-faceted mechanisms to manage environmental stress and pathogenicity.

IMPORTANCE

The gram-negative
Xanthomoas citri
subsp.
citri
(
Xcc
) is a causal agent of citrus canker, a serious bacterial disease on citrus plants. Our previous research reported that a
Xanthomonas
-specific outer membrane protein XAC1347 (OMP
Xan
) is necessary for type III gene expression. This manuscript provided evidence to show that OMP
Xan
interacts with Tol/Pal system substrate TolB. Moreover, OMP

Xan

and TolB are both required for cell membrane integrity, stress adaption, and virulence. The overall results support that OMP

Xan

and TolB coordinate multi-faceted mechanisms to manage environmental stress and pathogenicity.
Analysis of the growth trajectories of junior residents in Japan: a longitudinal cohort study using data from a nationwide e-portfolio system (EPOC2)
Authors: Nawa Nobutoshi , Okada Eriko , Akaishi Yu , Kashimada Ayako , Okada Hiroko , Okuhara Tsuyoshi , Kiuchi Takahiro , Takahashi Makoto , Ohde Sachiko , Fukui Tsuguya , Tanaka Yujiro , Yamawaki Masanaga
Published: January 2025

Objectives

As more emphasis is placed on the acquisition of competencies in medical education, portfolios are increasingly being used for evaluation. EPOC2 (E-POrtfolio of Clinical training) is an e-portfolio system developed in Japan and is used by about 800 clinical training hospitals. The study objective is to identify the learning trajectory of junior residents to provide insights into the provision of better postgraduate and undergraduate medical education in Japan.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

Hospitals nationwide adopting EPOC2.

Participants

7671 residents who participated in clinical training programmes at hospitals adopting EPOC2 between April 2020 and March 2022.

Primary outcome measure

Formative evaluation scores assessed through self-evaluation by junior residents and evaluations by supervisors/senior physicians at the end of each rotation in each clinical department.

Results

For all evaluation items, growth trajectories were divided into six groups, each with distinct characteristics based on the specific content of the evaluation form. For example, in the self-evaluation of medical knowledge and problem-solving (B-2), a lower percentage of respondents had adequate scores at the beginning of their training compared with other similar items. Compared with the self-evaluations of the other item groups (ie, forms A1–A4 and B1–B9), the self-evaluation of the item group related to seeing patients (ie, forms C1–C4) differed by showing a group that remained at or below 2 until the end, accounting for 2.8% to 7.0%, possibly indicating the relatively low confidence of the residents for these items.

Conclusions

Growth trajectories fall into six groups, each with its own characteristics depending on the content of the items. These findings offer valuable insights into the developmental trajectories of junior residents and may highlight opportunities for enhancing their training programmes in Japan. This underscores the usefulness of a nationwide evaluation system, enabling researchers to analyse clinical education outcomes across the country using uniform indicators.
Factors associated with weight loss response to GLP-1 analogues for obesity treatment: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Squire Peter , Naude James , Zentner Ali , Bittman Jesse , Khan Nadia
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The response to glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues for weight loss varies significantly. We investigated the anthropometric, demographic and clinical characteristics associated with total body weight loss (TBWL) from subcutaneous GLP-1 analogue therapy in patients with obesity in a real-world setting.

Design

Retrospective cohort analysis.

Setting

An urban, multidisciplinary obesity community clinic in Vancouver, Canada, from November 2018 to April 2021.

Participants

483 adults with a body mass index (BMI) of ≧30 kg/m2who had filled a new prescription for subcutaneous semaglutide or liraglutide, with at least 6-month follow-up, were included (mean follow-up: 17.3 months). Individuals with prior bariatric surgery were excluded.

Outcomes

The primary outcome was the %TBWL over a mean follow-up period of 520 days. Participant’s TWBL was categorised as non-response (<5% TBWL), moderate response (5%–15% TBWL) or hyper-response (>15% TBWL).

Results

The average %TBWL in the cohort was 12.2%. Among the participants, 17.8% had a non-response, 48.4% had a moderate response and 33.8% had a hyper-response. In the multivariable regression analysis, being a woman was associated with hyper-response (adjusted OR 1.92, CI 1.01 to 3.65, p=0.048). Age, diabetes status, baseline BMI, being sedentary, anxiety and depression were not independently associated with TBWL in response to GLP-1 analogue therapy.

Conclusions

In a real-world setting, female sex was found to be associated with a hyper-response to GLP-1 analogue therapy for obesity management. Other clinical factors evaluated, including diabetes status, were not associated with the response. Future research should assess additional variables and support the development of novel biomarkers that are associated with weight loss response.
Sleep profile in patients with septo-optic-pituitary dysplasia: protocol for a prospective cohort study
Authors: Pasca Ludovica , Morelli Federica , Catalano Guido , Quaranta Carlo Alberto , Vitali Helene , Ballante Elena , Dattrino Francesca , Crema Francesca , Rota Paola , Varesio Costanza , De Giorgis Valentina , Romaniello Romina , Signorini Sabrina , Franco Valentina
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Children with septo-optic-pituitary dysplasia (SOD) may experience a range of visual impairments and hormonal dysfunctions beyond developmental delay/intellectual disability. The literature describes sleep fragmentation, circadian rhythm disruptions and reduced sleep efficiency. These manifestations are believed to be closely linked to both structural and functional abnormalities associated with SOD, potentially disrupting the natural circadian rhythm. Both anomalies in midline brain structures and decreased visual input could potentially impact melatonin secretion, although a distinct melatonin profile for SOD patients has yet to be identified. Furthermore, the specific contribution of these factors to sleep disturbances in SOD remains unexplored. The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of sleep and its characteristics, along with the melatonin profile, among paediatric patients diagnosed with SOD. A comparison will be made between these findings and those of children with isolated bilateral visual impairment, as well as patients with agenesis of the corpus callosum.

Methods and analysis

Participants aged between 3 and 18 years previously diagnosed with SOD will be recruited prospectively. Each participant will be assessed at baseline and at each follow-up visit scheduled to evaluate the clinical course. Sleep quality and daytime sleepiness changes will be tracked using actigraphic assessment, standardised sleep questionnaires and a sleep EEG. Additionally, plasma and salivary melatonin profiles will be assessed for each participant.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by local Ethics Committee (N°0049187/23). The study findings will be shared through publication in an international peer-reviewed journal and presented at both national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT06262152.
Soil organic matter is responsive to short-term climate cycles
Authors: Sorenson P.T. , Bedard-Haughn A.K.
Published: January 2025

Strong evidence exists that management practices can increase soil organic matter (SOM); however, climate is also known to affect SOM content. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between precipitation and SOM. Precipitation and SOM data from southeastern Saskatchewan were highly correlated ( r = 0.91, p < 0.01), with SOM contents declining during drier periods, indicating SOM is responsive to short-term climate cycles. Assessing soil organic carbon (SOC) stock changes must account for climate variability to avoid ascribing either SOC losses due to lower precipitation or gains due to higher precipitation to management practices.
Effects of Substituting Soybean Meal With Winged Bean on Growth, Physiological Function and Flesh Quality of Indian Butter Catfish (Ompok bimaculatus)
Authors: Angom Jaya , Singh Soibam Khogen , Devi Ayam Gangarani , Das Pronob , Biswas Pradyut , Waikhom Gusheinzed , Ngasotter Soibam , Debbarma Reshmi , Debbarma Sourabh , Yadav Nitesh Kumar
Published: January 2025

Soybean meal (SBM) remains a primary protein source in aquafeeds. This study investigated the potential of winged bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus) meal as a SBM replacement in diets for butter catfish (Ompok bimaculatus) juveniles (mean weight: 1.24 ± 0.23 g). A response surface methodology (RSM) optimized processing conditions to minimize antinutritional factors (ANFs) in winged bean meal (WBM), resulting in minimized tannin (4.14 ± 0.018 mg/g at 40 min, 110°C), phytate (0.414 ± 0.0009 mg/g at 31.67 min, 104.5°C) and trypsin inhibitor activity (70.8 ± 0.06% inhibition at 20 min, 90°C). Experimental diets containing 30% crude protein and varying levels of WBM substitution (0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) were fed for 70 days. Growth performance, measured by weight gain, was significantly higher in the 25% substitution group (p < 0.05) but not significantly different from the control at 50% substitution. Quadratic regression analysis predicted an optimal inclusion level of 15.10% for maximizing weight gain. Survival rates did not differ significantly among treatments (p > 0.05). Feed utilization was most efficient in the 25% substitution group. Haematological and immunological parameters indicated improved fish health at the 25% substitution level. Flesh quality attributes, including texture profile analysis, pH and antioxidant activity, were superior in the 25% group compared to other treatments. However, colour enhancement was more pronounced at higher inclusion levels (≥50%). While flesh pH and antioxidant activity suggested potential stress at higher winged bean inclusion levels, the 25% group showed improved values compared to the control. These findings suggest that WBM can potentially replace up to 50% of SBM in butter catfish diets, offering a promising alternative protein source. This study provides preliminary data on the feasibility and prospects of utilizing WBM in O. bimaculatus diets.
Nutrient Profiling of Some Terrestrial Plant Leaves for Their Prospective Use as Nonconventional Ingredients in Carp Diets
Authors: Acharya Dibyendu , Kari Zulhisyam Abdul , Wei Lee Seong , Ghosh Koushik
Published: January 2025

The present study was performed to investigate the basic chemical composition and nutritional value of 10 terrestrial plant leaves (viz. Mangifera indica, Litchi chinensis, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Ziziphus mauritiana, Albizia lebbeck, Tamarindus indica, Cicer arietinum, Bauhinia acuminata, Delonix regia and Peltophorum pterocarpum) abundant in tropical and subtropical environments. The leaf meals were evaluated comprehensively, encompassing proximate composition (% dry matter), amino acids, fatty acids, antinutritional factors (ANFs), antioxidants and antibacterial potential using established methodologies. The crude protein (CP) content of the leaves ranged from 10.92% to 20.74% (w/w), with the highest content observed in A. lebbeck leaves. The crude lipid (CL) and crude fibre (CF) contents varied between 1.23%–5.38% and 13.73%–24.63%, respectively (w/w). The protein‐to‐energy ratio (P/E) ranged between 32.32 and 60.70 mg/kcal, with significantly higher (p  < 0.05) P/E in A. lebbeck compared to the other leaves. Dominant fatty acids in the evaluated plant leaves included palmitic acid (C16:0), oleic acid (C18:1n9c) and linolenic acid (C18:3n3). Considerable amounts of essential amino acids (EAAs) and nonessential amino acids (NEAAs) were recorded in the plant leaves, with maximum quantities detected in A. lebbeck and A. heterophyllus, respectively. Notably, substantial amounts of mineral elements were also detected in the plant leaves. Z. mauritiana was identified as a rich source of iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn), while the highest calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg) levels were recorded in A. heterophyllus. Furthermore, the aqueous extracts of the leaves exhibited antioxidant and antibacterial potentials, with the maximum activities for both observed in T. indica. Analyses of ANFs indicated the presence of trypsin inhibitor (TI) (1.62–3.69 mg/g), tannin (21.25–61.25 mg/g), phytic acid (1.74–5.42 mg/g), cellulose (14.53%–21.37%) and hemicellulose (5.48%–10.56%) in the leaves. The study conclusively proposes the utilization of leguminous plants, particularly A. lebbeck, B. acuminata and P. pterocarpum, as potential nonconventional ingredients after eliminating or deactivating the major ANFs. This information on nutrients and ANFs of the less explored terrestrial plant leaves can be used to optimize low‐cost carp diet formulation to ensure the economic profitability of fish farmers in the region.
Effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodlot Plantation Expansion on Food Security in South Achefer District, West Gojjam, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Belachew Kiros Getachew , Desta Alemu Gashe
Published: January 2025

Eucalyptus camaldulensis is commonly planted on farmland in highland Ethiopia because of its high economic profitability. However, the expansion of woodlot plantations has led to a decline in crop growth and yield, which negatively affects food security. To address this issue, this study aimed to examine the effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis woodlot expansion on crop production and food security in South Achefer. Data were collected from 180 respondents using a three‐stage sampling technique for the four kebeles in the district. The survey data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and a binary logit regression model using SPSS software version 24. This study found that most households (87%) perceived a rapid increase in Eucalyptus woodlot expansion. The allocation of more land for Eucalyptus woodlot expansion was positively and significantly affected by family size, landholding size, total annual income, and availability of unproductive land. Additionally, the study revealed that Eucalyptus woodlots highly compete with nearly all grown crops for nutrients and moisture. This causes a reduction in yield from one to four quintals compared to the normal crop grown far from the Eucalyptus tree. Approximately three‐fourths (71%) of the sampled farmers did not obtain stable food annually and were considered food insecure. To alleviate food insecurity, this study suggests that stakeholders should focus on improving livelihood alternatives rather than expanding Eucalyptus woodlots.
Impacts of Drought Stress on Wheat Flour, Dough, and Chinese Southern‐Type Steamed Bread Quality Characteristics
Authors: Yu Fengcun , Sun Yuqing , Yuan Hongwei , Wang Naifu
Published: January 2025

In this study, the effect of drought stress at different growing stages (tillering, jointing‐booting, heading‐flowering, and filling‐maturing) on the qualities of wheat flour and steamed bread was investigated using three winter wheat varieties (Huaimai 58, Yannong 19, Aikang 58). As for Huaimai 58, all stages of drought treatments significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the flour extraction rate and protein content, dough extensibility and tenacity, and steamed bread‐making performance when compared with the control group (normal‐irrigation). Among the growing stages, the filling‐maturing stage exhibited the most significant effect on the steamed bread‐making performance of Huaimai 58, which decreased the specific volume of steamed bread by 29.5% and increased its hardness by 166.5%. As for Yannong 19 and Aikang 58, drought treatments at heading‐flowering and filling‐maturing stages significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the extraction rate of wheat flour while increasing the flour protein content, dough extensibility and tenacity, and steamed bread‐making performance, indicating the flour and steamed bread‐making qualities of Yannong 19 and Aikang 58 were favored by drought treatments. Overall, drought treatments showed different effects on the wheat flour and steamed bread qualities in the three winter wheat varieties, with the filling‐maturing stage drought treatment exerting the most significant effect on the steamed bread‐making performance.
Effects and Mechanisms of Silibinin on Influenza A/H1N1 Pathogenesis in a Mouse Model
Authors: Keshavarz Mohsen , Ghorbani Mohsen , Shamsizadeh Forough , Namdari Haideh , Salimi Vahid , Rezaei Farhad
Published: January 2025

Silymarin is a polyphenolic flavonoid extracted from milk thistle. It has potent immunomodulatory effects and can inhibit the replication of influenza A virus (IAV). The present study aimed to determine the inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokine secretion patterns in mice before and after silibinin treatment. For this, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids were collected from the thoracic cavity 5 days after the intervention, and viral quantification was performed using TaqMan Real‐time PCR. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to evaluate IFN‐γ and IL‐10 levels in serum and BAL samples. Finally, pathological damage to lung tissue was assessed by pathologists. The results reveal that silibinin pretreatment exhibits a dose‐dependent immunomodulatory effect on IFN‐γ and IL‐10 levels. After the virus challenge, silibinin reduced immune cell infiltration in mouse BAL fluid. These data similarly suggest a remarkable immunomodulatory effect of silibinin. Silibinin also decreased lung damage following the virus challenge in the post‐treatment group, but its lung protective properties seem to be due to a different mechanism than when it was administered before infection. Finally, high doses of silibinin (post‐treatment) significantly reduced viral load in BAL fluid compared to the virus challenge group. These results support the idea that therapies aimed at moderating immune and inflammatory responses are essential to decrease the mortality rate caused by IAV infection. Silibinin has strong immunomodulatory properties, can inhibit IAV infection, and reduces lung tissue damage in a dose‐dependent manner.
Real‐World Insights Into Hypoglycemia Risk While Driving in Teens and Young Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Pamidimukkala Kalyan , Ferm Michael L. , Erraguntla Madhav , Haridas Balakrishna , Byju Achu , Lawley Mark , Menon Sruthi , Villegas Carolina , McKay Siripoom , DeSalvo Daniel J.
Published: January 2025

Background: Clinical guidelines on driving for people with diabetes exist, but there are limited studies analyzing glucose data and hypoglycemia risk while driving. No published studies have analyzed teenage or emerging adult drivers with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The primary aim of our pilot study was to explore the glycemic patterns of young drivers with T1D as they relate to clinical guidelines and identify trends that could be used to improve road safety.

Methods: In this pilot study, we collected continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data from five drivers with T1D (median age 19, range 17–21 years) over a 1‐month period. The driving trips were divided into two categories: (1) Short trips (<60 min) and (2) Long trips (≥60 min). Hypoglycemia was defined as <70 mg/dL as recorded by CGM for at least four consecutive readings. Trips <10 min were excluded from the analysis.

Results: Data on 284 total trips with associated CGM readings were recorded. The average number of trips taken by drivers during the study was 56.8 trips (range 9–82). For short trips (n = 276), no episodes of hypoglycemia occurred when starting glucose was >90 mg/dL (n = 227). For short trips with starting glucose of 70–90 mg/dL (n = 32), each hypoglycemic event (n = 5) had a drop in the first CGM glucose value while driving. Seventeen (5.7%) of short trips started with a glucose <70 mg/dL. A total of eight long trips (>60 min) were recorded, all had a starting CGM value of >90 mg/dL, and none had hypoglycemia events.

Conclusions: These real‐world findings from a small sample of teenage and young adult drivers with T1D support the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommendation for starting glucose of >90 mg/dL when driving. Larger studies would be helpful in clearly identifying and improving road safety concerns in young drivers with T1D.
Body Composition at Diagnosis and Early Response in Pediatric Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Wadhwa Aman , Dai Chen , Kessel Sandra , Richman Joshua S. , Shen Wei , Kahn Justine M. , Castellino Sharon M. , Kelly Kara M. , Friedman Debra L. , Bhatia Smita
Published: January 2025

Background:

The association between skeletal, muscle, and adipose tissue (body composition) and early response using PET in pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma remains unstudied.

Methods:

Patients enrolled on Children’s Oncology Group studies AHOD0031 (intermediate-risk Hodgkin lymphoma) and AHOD0831 (high-risk Hodgkin lymphoma) with digital abdominal CT scans at diagnosis and PET scans after 2 cycles (PET2) were included. Two consecutive slices at the third lumbar vertebra were identified, and skeletal muscle index (SMI; in cm2/m2) and total adipose tissue index (TATI; in cm2/m2) were calculated using sliceOmatic and height at diagnosis. SMI and TATI were divided into quintiles [Q1 (lowest) to Q5 (highest)]. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using height and weight at diagnosis. The association between baseline body composition (SMI, TATI, and BMI) and positive PET2 was examined using logistic regression, adjusting for age at diagnosis, sex, race/ethnicity, stage, histology, bulk disease, and “B” symptoms.

Results:

Among 1,033 included patients, PET2 was positive in 314 (30.4%) patients. SMI was not associated with positive PET2. Extremes of TATI were associated with positive PET2, when compared with the middle TATI quintile [reference: Q3; ORQ1 = 1.63; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–2.60; P = 0.04; ORQ2 = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.17–2.82; P = 0.008; ORQ5 = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.23–3.05; P = 0.005]. The association between BMI in obesity range and positive PET2 trended toward significance (OR = 1.42; 95% CI = 0.98–2.04; P = 0.06; ref = normal weight).

Conclusions:

Extremes of adipose tissue at diagnosis influence early response among pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma.

Impact:

Validation of results from this study could inform studies investigating body composition–based chemotherapy dosing.
PSMA+ Extracellular Vesicles Are a Biomarker for SABR in Oligorecurrent Prostate Cancer: Analysis from the STOMP-like and ORIOLE Trial Cohorts
Authors: Andrews Jack R. , Kim Yohan , Horjeti Edlira , Arafa Ali , Gunn Heather , De Bruycker Aurélie , Phillips Ryan , Song Daniel , Childs Daniel S. , Sartor Oliver A. , Orme Jacob J. , Chaudhuri Aadel A. , Tran Phuoc , Kiess Ana , Sutera Philip , Mercier Carole , Ost Piet , Park Sean S. , Lucien Fabrice
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Two randomized clinical trials (STOMP and ORIOLE) demonstrated that stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) can prolong androgen-deprivation therapy–free survival or progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with metachronous oligometastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (omCSPC). Although most patients with omCSPC have a more modest delay in progression, a small subset achieves a durable response following SABR. We investigated the prognostic and predictive value of circulating prostate-specific membrane antigen-positive (PSMA+) extracellular vesicles (EV) and PSA in a biomarker correlative study using blood samples from three independent patient cohorts.

Experimental Design:

Plasma samples from 46 patients with omCSPC on the ORIOLE trial and 127 patients with omCSPC on the STOMP trial protocol treated with SABR were included in the study. Pre-SABR PSMA+EV levels (EV/mL) were measured by nanoscale flow cytometry. Kaplan–Meier curves and logistic regression models were used to determine the association of PSMA+EV and PSA levels with clinical outcomes.

Results:

In the pooled cohorts, the median biochemical PFS were 26.1 and 15.0 months (P = 0.005), and the median radiographic PFS were 36.0 and 25.0 months (P = 0.003) for PSMA+EV-low and -high groups, respectively. The combination of pre-SABR low levels of both PSMA+EV and PSA was associated with a lower risk of radiographic progression (HR, 0.34, 95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.58; P = 0.0002). In the ORIOLE cohort, which included both an SABR arm and an observation arm, low PSMA+EV was predictive of benefit from SABR (P = 0.012).

Conclusions:

PSMA+EV is a novel prognostic and predictive biomarker of radiographically occult tumor burden in omCSPC. PSMA+EV may inform clinical decisions about identifying patients who will achieve a durable benefit from consolidative SABR alone.
Myt1 Kinase: An Emerging Cell-Cycle Regulator for Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Lang Fengchao , Kaur Karambir , Zaheer Javeria , Ribeiro Diego Luis , Yang Chunzhang
Published: January 2025

Cell-cycle checkpoints are stringent quality control mechanisms that regulate cell-cycle progression and division. Cancer cells often develop a dependency on the G2–M cell-cycle checkpoint to facilitate DNA repair and resolve intrinsic or therapy-induced DNA damage. This dependency leads to therapy resistance, continuous cell division, and disease progression. Targeting G2–M checkpoints has been heavily pursued over the past two decades and has progressed into clinical studies. Recent genome-scale functional genomic studies have revealed that protein kinase, membrane-associated tyrosine/threonine 1, an essential but previously overlooked molecule for the G2–M checkpoint, is a promising target for multiple types of cancers. In this work, we summarize the latest discoveries in molecular targeting of protein kinase, membrane-associated tyrosine/threonine 1, and discuss the challenges and limitations in expanding its clinical application.
Verrucous Eccrine Angiomatous Hamartoma: A Case Report
Authors: Sadeghinia Ali , Sadeghi Yasaman , Ghanadan Alireza , Mazaherpour Elham
Published: January 2025

Eccrine angiomatous hamartoma (EAH) is a rare malformation presenting with the proliferation of eccrine glands and other dermal structures. It typically presents as a solitary lesion on extremities that appears at birth or during childhood. It is generally asymptomatic but may be associated with hyperhidrosis or pain. Here we report a case of verrucous EAH located on the heel of a 27-year-old man, which is an uncommon presentation of this tumor, and review the clinical characteristics, histologic findings, and prognosis of this rare condition.
High Plasma Polyamine Levels Are Associated With an Increased Risk of Poststroke Cognitive Impairment: A Multicenter Prospective Study From CATIS
Authors: He Yu , Jia Yiming , Liu Yi , Chang Xinyue , Yang Pinni , Shi Mengyao , Guo Daoxia , Peng Yanbo , Chen Jing , Wang Aili , Xu Tan , He Jiang , Zhang Yonghong , Zhu Zhengbao
Published: January 2025

Background

Polyamines have been suggested to play pivotal roles in ischemic stroke and neurodegenerative disorders, but the associations of plasma polyamines with poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) remain unclear. We aimed to prospectively investigate the associations of plasma putrescine, spermidine, and spermine with PSCI among patients with ischemic stroke in a multicenter cohort study.

Methods and Results

We measured plasma polyamine levels at baseline among 619 patients with ischemic stroke from a preplanned ancillary study of CATIS (China Antihypertensive Trial in Acute Ischemic Stroke). We used the Mini‐Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment to evaluate cognitive function at 3‐month follow‐up after ischemic stroke, and PSCI was defined as Mini‐Mental State Examination score <27 or Montreal Cognitive Assessment score <25. According to the Mini‐Mental State Examination score, plasma polyamines were positively associated with PSCI. The adjusted odds ratios of PSCI for the highest versus lowest quartile of putrescine, spermidine, and spermine were 1.81 (95% CI, 1.09–3.00), 1.81 (95% CI, 1.09–3.01), and 1.92 (95% CI, 1.15–3.20), respectively. In addition, plasma putrescine (net reclassification improvement, 32.08%;
P
<0.001; integrated discrimination improvement, 1.62%;
P
=0.002), spermidine (net reclassification improvement, 25.29%;
P
=0.002; integrated discrimination improvement, 1.22%;
P
=0.006), and spermine (net reclassification improvement, 16.54%;
P
=0.045; integrated discrimination improvement, 1.36%;
P
=0.004) could significantly improve the risk reclassification of PSCI beyond established risk factors. There were similar significant relationships when PSCI was defined by Montreal Cognitive Assessment score.

Conclusions

Higher plasma polyamine levels were associated with increased risk of PSCI among patients with ischemic stroke. Our findings suggest that plasma polyamines should be implicated in the pathophysiologic processes of PSCI and may be the potential intervention targets for PSCI.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01840072.
CleanScape: An Augmented Reality Intervention for Assessing and Treating Contamination-Based Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Ji Yuhan , Luo Yilin , Chen Roujing
Published: January 2025

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is evidence indicating a worsening of pre-existing mental health conditions, with a notable focus on contamination-based Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Although Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) currently serves as the primary psychological intervention for OCD, substantial variability in treatment outcomes exists, marked by insufficient symptom improvement and noteworthy rates of refusal and attrition. These challenges are partly attributed to difficulties in realistically simulating intrusive thoughts within clinical settings. Augmented Reality (AR) emerges as a potential solution to address these limitations, offering the possibility to create controlled, anxiety-provoking scenarios. To evaluate the potential effectiveness of AR in treating contamination-based OCD, an experiment was conducted with 22 patients who underwent AR exposure and response prevention across five scenarios of varying severity. A control group of 22 patients participated in the same experiment concurrently. Both subjective and objective measures of distress were documented. Exposure to the virtual elements induced elevated levels of state anxiety in both groups, with significantly higher levels observed in the contamination-based OCD group. The results indicate that the developed AR scenarios effectively elicit emotional responses. Therefore, these scenarios can be utilized as a complementary approach in the treatment of contamination-based OCD.
The Bible and the African American Experience
Authors: Paris Peter J.
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this essay is to provide a broad overview of the significant events in the mid-twentieth century African American struggle against racism and its impact on the theological academy in general and the academic work of Brian Blount in particular. Though denied access to advanced biblical study programs for many years, African American clergy and their churches have a long history of giving primacy to the Bible as their normative resource for opposing racial injustice. Brian Blount’s perceptive scholarship explores both the theological depth and the moral breadth of that connection.