bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of photobiomodulation on hearing loss: A systematic review
Authors: Nikookam Yasmin , Zia Nawal , Lotfallah Andrew , Muzaffar Jameel , Davis‐Manders Jennifer , Kullar Peter , Smith Matthew , Bale Gemma , Boyle Patrick , Irving Richard , Jiang Dan , Bance Manohar
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To assess outcomes associated with photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) for hearing loss in human and animal studies.

Design

Systematic review and narrative synthesis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Setting

Data bases searched: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov and Web of Science. No limits were placed on language or year of publication. Review conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 statement.

Participants

All human and animal subjects treated with PBMT for hearing loss.

Main outcome measures

Pre‐ and post‐PBMT audio metric outcomes.

Results

Searches identified 122 abstracts and 49 full text articles. Of these, 17 studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting outcomes in 327 animals (11 studies), 30 humans (1 study), and 40 animal specimens (5 studies). PBMT parameters included 6 different wavelengths: 908 nm (1 study), 810 nm (1 study), 532 & 635 nm (1 study), 830 nm (3 studies), 808 nm (11 studies). The duration ranged from 4 to 60 minutes in a session, and the follow‐up ranged from 5–28 days. Outcomes improved significantly when wavelengths within the range of 800–830 nm were used, and with greater duration of PBMT exposure. Included studies predominantly consisted of non‐randomized controlled trials (10 studies).

Conclusions

Hearing outcomes following PBMT appear to be superior to no PBMT for subjects with hearing loss, although higher level evidence is required to verify this. PBMT enables concentrated, focused delivery of light therapy to the inner ear through a non‐invasive manner with minimal side effects. As a result of heterogeneity in reporting PBMT parameters and outcomes across the included studies, direct comparison is challenging.
Knowledge coproduction to improve assessments of nature's contributions to people
Authors: Vallet Améline , Locatelli Bruno , Valdivia‐Díaz Merelyn , Quispe Conde Yésica , Matencio García Gerardina , Ramos Criales Alejandrina , Valverde Huamanñahui Francisca , Ramos Criales Santusa , Makowski David , Lavorel Sandra
Published: October 2023

Sustainability science needs new approaches to produce, share, and use knowledge because there are major barriers to translating research into policy and practice. Multiple actors hold relevant knowledge for sustainability including indigenous and local people who have developed over generations knowledge, methods, and practices that biodiversity and ecosystem assessments need to capture. Despite efforts to mainstream knowledge coproduction, less than 3% of the literature on nature's contributions to people (NCP) integrates indigenous and local knowledge (ILK). Approaches and tools to better integrate scientific and ILK knowledge systems in NCP assessments are urgently needed. To fill this gap, we conducted interviews with ILK experts from Abancay and Tamburco, Peru, and convened focus groups and workshops during which participatory mapping, a serious game, a Bayesian belief network based on ILK were introduced. We inventoried 60 medicinal plants used to treat different illnesses, and analyzed the spatial distribution of the 7 plants that contribute the most to a good quality of life, and delineated their nonmedicinal uses. Based on the Intergovernmental Science‐Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services conceptual framework, we defined dimensions of a good quality of life according to indigenous and local worldviews. Medicinal plants contributed strongly to health and household security, among other contributions. Climate change and overexploitation were the main perceived threats to medicinal plants, despite the existence of formal and customary institutions to regulate trade. Our approach was flexible enough to integrate diverse forms of knowledge, as well as qualitative and quantitative information from, for example, the Bayesian belief network.
Online wildlife trade in species of conservation concern
Authors: Soriano‐Redondo Andrea , Alwasiti Haider , Kulkarni Ritwik , Correia Ricardo A. , Bryukhova Sofiya , Lita Nermalie M. , Rigor Lodigario A. , Tejerero Darwin R. , Tenazas Theresa M. , Di Minin Enrico
Published: October 2023

Online wildlife trade is widespread and affects thousands of species. Yet, attempts to quantify online wildlife trade have mainly focused on a few platforms and taxonomic groups. Here, we study the prevalence of wildlife trade using automated data collection and filtering methods. We analyze trade across five digital platforms and 156 animal and plant species of conservation concern from a global biodiversity hotspot, the Philippines. We identified approximately 5000 highly relevant instances of trade in 1.47 million posts, focusing on 108 species, 79 of which are classified as threatened. Trade mainly occurred on webpages indexed in Google and on Twitter. We found that manual validation is essential, as animals obtained a higher proportion of hits prior to validation. Following manual validation, we observed a shift toward plant‐related trade hits. Scaling up these approaches to a global level is key to understanding the extent of digital wildlife trade across the globe.
Students' perceptions of post‐exam feedback in oral radiology—A comparative study from two dental hygienist educational settings
Authors: de Lange Thomas , Møystad Anne , Torgersen Gerald , Ahlqvist Jan , Jäghagen Eva Levring
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate how students perceive the benefit of participating in a teacher‐organised session providing feedback on exams, termed post‐exam feedback, in two dental hygienist programmes.

Methods

The study was based on interviews with 22 participants, including 18 students and 4 faculty teachers. The data were approached on the basis of thematic analysis, allowing us to generate insights on how the participants reflected on their participation in the post‐exam feedback sessions and how they perceived this arrangement as learners.

Results

The findings from the study suggest that motivated students consider post‐exam feedback to be beneficial in clearing up uncertainties and deepening their understanding of issues not fully understood during the exam, as well as supporting their further learning. Less motivated students mainly consider post‐exam feedback to be relevant for students who do not pass the exams.

Conclusions

Organised in a student‐centred way and with attentiveness to student learning preferences, the results suggest that post‐exam feedback can be valuable for enhancing assessment and supporting student learning related to exams.
Nutritional quality of eastern school whiting (Sillago flindersi) under contemporary and future environmental conditions
Authors: Shalders Tanika C. , Champion Curtis , Benkendorff Kirsten , Hall Karina C. , Cooling Kris , Coleman Melinda A.
Published: October 2023

Climate‐driven environmental change is increasingly impacting global fisheries and marine resource use. Fisheries provide a broad range of economic, social and cultural benefits while delivering essential contributions to nutrient security and human health. Despite this, little is known about how climate change will impact the availability and quality of seafood‐derived nutrients. Here, we quantified spatial and temporal changes in the nutritional quality of the commercially harvested eastern school whiting, Sillago flindersi, sampled throughout the south‐east Australian ocean warming hotspot. Several nutrients measured in S. flindersi, including protein, ash, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and the omega‐3 PUFA–docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6ɷ3), were related to one or more environmental factors (sea bottom temperature, depth and chlorophyll). We also detected seasonal variability in DHA and ash composition throughout the species' commercially harvested distribution. Historical and future spatial modelling predicted a decrease in DHA of up to 6% with increasing ocean temperature under future Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5 emission scenarios. Overall, our results identified S. flindersi as a rich source of protein and essential PUFAs for human consumers and supported emerging evidence that reductions in seafood‐derived essential nutrients may occur under future ocean warming, specifically reductions in omega‐3 fatty acids. The development of nutritional quality forecasting tools for seafood holds the potential to inform fishers and managers of locations and times of the year to target species with optimal nutritional quality.
The PRO‐HOME Project. A multicomponent intervention for the protected discharge from the hospital of multimorbid and polytreated older individuals by using innovative technologies: A pilot study
Authors: Pilotto Alberto , Volta Erica , Barbagelata Marina , Argusti Alessandra , Camurri Antonio , Casiddu Niccolò , Berutti‐Bergotto Carlo , Custodero Carlo , Cella Alberto
Published: October 2023

Backgroud

Discharge planning from the hospital of frail older patients is an important step to avoid inappropriate long‐stay hospitalizations and to prevent the risks related to the prolonged hospitalization. In this frame, we developed an experimental trial—‘PRO‐HOME’, a multicomponent programme of interventions for multimorbid and polytreated hospitalized older patients.

Aim

The main aim of the study was to develop a protected discharge facility using a mini apartment equipped with advanced architectural and technological components to reduce the length of hospital stay of older participants (aged 65+ years old) admitted to the hospital for an acute event, deemed stable and dischargeable.

Materials and Methods

This is a pilot randomized controlled study, comparing 30 hospitalized participants included in a multidimensional, transitional care programme based on information and communication technologies to 30 patients in standard usual care until hospital discharge.

Results

We presented the study design of the PRO‐HOME programme, including architectural and technological components, the enrolment procedures, the components of the intervention that is physical activity, cognitive training and life‐style education and the evaluation method of the intervention based on the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment to explore the changes in the individual domains that are target of the multicomponent intervention.

Conclusions

The final results will suggest whether the PRO‐HOME programme represents a useful and feasible intervention to reduce the length of hospital stay of multimorbid and polytreated hospitalized older patients and improve their physical and cognitive performances and overall quality of life.

Patient or Public Contribution

Due to the characteristics of the population of interest of the PRO‐HOME study, we involved in the study design and programme of the activities the participants enrolled in a previous smart home‐based project named MoDiPro carried‐out during a 3‐year period. The elderly participants from the local population involved were asked, by means of focus groups, for feedback on their experience in MoDiPro, and their suggestions were integrated into the design phase of the current PRO‐HOME project. The focus groups included open group interviews with a qualitative collection of the patients' feedback so that the participants could interact with each other.
Allan William Cripps: a mucosal immunologist and mentor from beginning to end
Authors: Gleeson Maree , West Nicholas P
Published: October 2023

Allan Cripps was internationally recognized in the field of mucosal immunology, in particular the relationship between respiratory diseases and mucosal immunization strategies. Allan's career spanned scientific and applied research, commercialization, health education, and evolved into leadership roles in public‐health and academic administration. Allan published over 400 papers and mentored over 40 research higher degree candidates. Allan was renowned for his mentorship, that did not end with the awarding of a PhD or Master's degree, but continued across a lifetime of professional engagement. Allan's key contributions to immunology included characterizing the ontogeny of the human mucosal immune system, understanding the impact of respiratory infections and otitis media in children, developing diagnostic technologies and mucosal vaccine strategies, and identifying the roles of the common mucosal immune system in human health. In this biography for the 100th anniversary of the Journal, we follow his journey of discovery and contributions to immunological research.
Comparing the efficacy of chlorhexidine and povidone–iodine in preventing surgical site infections: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bai Dunyao , Zhou Fan , Wu Liuting
Published: October 2023

Surgical site infections (SSIs) post‐surgery impact patient health and raise healthcare costs. This meta‐analysis examines the efficacy of antiseptics, chlorhexidine and povidone–iodine, in reducing SSIs, including various types, to settle ongoing debates on their comparative effectiveness. A systematic literature search conforming to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines was executed on four established databases without temporal restrictions. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including patients aged 18 years or older undergoing clean or potentially contaminated surgeries were included. Two independent evaluators carried out study selection, data extraction and quality assessment, adhering to Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool. Statistical analyses were performed using chi‐square tests and the I2 index to evaluate heterogeneity, and meta‐analyses were conducted employing either fixed‐effects or random‐effects models as warranted by the heterogeneity assessments. A total of 16 RCTs were included after rigorous selection from an initial pool of 1742 articles. The studies demonstrated low levels of heterogeneity, supporting the use of a fixed‐effects model. Chlorhexidine exhibited statistically lower rates of overall SSIs (RR 0.75; 95% CI 0.64–0.88; p < 0.001), superficial SSIs (RR 0.62; 95% CI 0.47–0.82; p < 0.001) and deep SSIs compared to povidone–iodine. The study furnishes compelling evidence in favour of chlorhexidine as a more efficacious antiseptic agent over povidone–iodine in minimizing the risk of various types of SSIs.
Enzyme thermostabilization by bovine serum albumin and other proteins: evidence for hydrophobic interactions
Authors: BS Chang , RR Mahoney
Published: October 2023

BSA stabilizes Streptococcus thermophilus beta‐galactosidase against thermal inactivation and binds to the active enzyme subunits formed on heating. The mechanism of interaction and stabilization, however, is unknown, and it was investigated using different proteins. The results show that several proteins increased the enzyme half‐life (t 1/2) at 64 degrees C in the presence of the substrate lactose. The best stabilizers were BSA (9‐fold) and casein (6‐fold). There was a significant correlation between enzyme half‐life (t 1/2) and surface hydrophobicity of the proteins (So), of the form t 1/2 varies; is directly proportional to S0.5o. The surface hydrophobicity of the enzyme increased upon heating, while that of BSA declined. Heating enzyme and BSA together caused a net loss in surface hydrophobicity, indicating hydrophobic interactions, but there was no change in the absence of heating. Stabilization of the enzyme by BSA was markedly affected by chaotropic and kosmotropic salts. Stabilization was increased by 1 M Na2SO4 and reduced by 1 M NaBr; 1 M NaCl had little effect. None of the three salts increased the stability of the enzyme itself, indicating that the effect was on the enzyme‐protein interaction. The results indicate that BSA stabilized the enzyme by hydrophobic interactions with the heated enzyme and that surface hydrophobicity is a major determinant of the extent of stabilization by a protein.
Release of ferulic acid from sugar‐beet pulp by using arabinanase, arabinofuranosidase and an esterase from Aspergillus niger
Authors: PA Kroon , Williamson G.
Published: October 2023

Aspergillus niger cinnamoyl esterase (CinnAE) is shown to be active towards a wide range of feruloylated oligosaccharides derived from sugar‐beet pulp (SBP). The esterase hydrolysed ferulic acid ester‐linked to either C‐2 of arabinose or C‐6 of galactose residues, and demonstrated the highest activity towards the feruloylated arabinose trisaccharide. However, CinnAE was able to release only 0.88% of total alkali‐extractable ferulic acid from SBP in 24 h when acting alone. To determine whether cell‐wall‐degrading enzymes could increase the release of ferulic acid by CinnAE, SBP was incubated with various carbohydrases [cellulase, polygalacturonase, endo‐arabinanase, alpha‐L‐arabinofuranosidase, endo‐(1,4‐beta‐D‐galactanase, beta‐D‐galactosidase]. These were added alone and in pairs, both in the presence and absence of CinnAE. We showed that all the carbohydrases tested were free of esterase activity. When individual carbohydrases were incubated with SBP, whether in the presence or absence of CinnAE, less than 1% of the feruloyl groups were released. When incubated with a mixture of endo‐arabinanase and alpha‐L‐arabinofuranosidase, the esterase was able to release 14 times more of the alkali‐extractable ferulic acid present in the whole pulp as free acid than CinnAE alone. Ferulic acid is linked either to L‐arabinose or D‐galactose in SBP, but no corresponding increase in ferulic acid release was detected when SBP was incubated with CinnAE plus endo‐(1,4)‐beta‐D‐galactanase and beta‐D‐galactosidase (both from A. niger). Hence feruloylated arabinans in SBP are readily available for hydrolysis by arabinan‐degrading enzymes, whereas feruloylated galactans are not available for hydrolysis by galactan‐degrading enzymes.
Artificial‐capillary‐systemdevelopment of human alloreactive cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes that lyse brain tumour
Authors: Kruse Carol A. , Beck L. Tony
Published: October 2023

The production of alloreactive cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes (CTL) for therapy of recurrent brain tumours was performed in the CELLMAX® artificial capillary system composed of cell‐culture modules containing cellulose acetate or cuprammonium rayon hollow fibres. Lymphocytes, obtained from the brain‐tumour patient to be used for sensitization, were stimulated with OKT3 (anti‐CD3) and interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and inoculated into the extracapillary space of artificial capillary modules. For allogeneic CTL production, the expanded patient lymphocytes were harvested, irradiated and placed into a second artificial capillary system with allogeneic lymphocytes from a healthy donor. In a one‐way mixed lymphocyte reaction, CTL developed in the presence of low‐concentration IL‐2 (60 i.u. of IL‐2/ml). In 18Ő21 days the cell preparation usually displayed a predominantly CD3 +, CD8 + phenotype, which consorted with the dual‐labelled CD8/CD11a markers used to identify CTL. Chromium (Cr)‐release assays demonstrated lysis of patient tumour in relation to allogeneic glioma; the response observed in cold‐target‐inhibition assays confirmed lysis of the relevant tumour by the CTL.
The Rate and Characteristics of Suicide Attempters in the Native Hawaiian Adolescent Population
Authors: Yuen Noelle , Andrade Naleen , Nahulu Linda , Makini George , McDermott John F. , Danko George , Johnson Ronald , Waldron Jane
Published: October 2023

Native Hawaiian high school students, N = 1779, were surveyed for symptoms of psycho‐pathology and suicide attempts in the previous 6 months. Seventy‐seven (4.3%) of the students reported making a suicide attempt. There were no significant differences in prevalence rates for males and females. Depression, anxiety, aggression, substance abuse symptoms, and low family support, but not peer support, were significantly correlated with suicide attempts. On logistic regression, depression, substance abuse, and family support independently predicted attempts. The lack of gender difference may indicate a cultural characteristic of the Hawaiian population that differentiates it from mainstream American populations but likens it to the Native American population.
Prediction of Suicide Intent in Aboriginal and Non‐Aboriginal Adolescent Inpatients: A Research Note
Authors: Enns Murray W. , Inayatulla Mohamed , Cox Brian , Cheyne Lorraine
Published: October 2023

The relationship among depressive symptoms, anxiety, hopelessness, and suicidal intent was explored in a group of 77 adolescents who had been hospitalized after attempting suicide. Regression analyses indicated that hopelessness was the only significant predictor of suicide intent in Caucasian patients, and depressed mood was the only significant predictor in the Aboriginal group. Clinicians should be aware that measures of hopelessness may be of limited value in assessing suicidal risk in Aboriginal adolescents.
Adolescents' Misperceptions of the Dangerousness of Acetaminophen in Overdose
Authors: Harris Hope Elaine , Myers Wade C.
Published: October 2023

Clinical observations suggest that adolescents commonly and naively use acetaminophen in suicide attempts even when they do not wish to die. It is estimated that 18 500‐mg acetaminophen tablets can lead to hepatotoxicity, while death is usually associated with ingestion of 50 or more tablets. A sample comprising 569 adolescent students completed an author‐designed survey assessing teenagers' knowledge of acetaminophen's therapeutic and harmful effects. The findings support our original data that adolescents have ready access to acetaminophen and use it in suicide attempts, but underestimate its potential for toxicity. Forty‐two percent of this sample underestimated the dose to cause harm, believing it would require 20 or more tablets, and 50% underestimated the dose to cause death, stating 100 or more pills would be necessary. Adolescents appear to seriously underestimate the dangerousness of acetaminophen in overdose, and lack knowledge regarding side effects of overdose.
The Big Ten Student Suicide Study: A 10‐Year Study of Suicides on Midwestern University Campuses
Authors: Silverman Morton M. , Meyer Peter M. , Sloane Finbarr , Raffel Madeleine , Pratt Deborah M.
Published: October 2023

The Big Ten Student Suicide Study was undertaken from 1980–1990 to determine the suicide rates on Big Ten University campuses. The study design attempted to address many of the statistical and epidemiological flaws identified in previous studies of campus student suicides. The 10‐year study collected demographic and correlational data on 261 suicides of registered students at 12 midwestern campuses. The largest number of suicides for both males and females were in the 20–24‐year‐old age group (46%), and amongst graduate students (32%). The overall student suicide rate of 7.5/100,000 is one half of the computed national suicide rate (15.0/100,000) for a matched sample by age, gender, and race. Despite the overall lower suicide rate, the analyses revealed that students 25 and over have a significantly higher risk than younger students. Although women have rates roughly half those of men throughout their undergraduate years, graduate women have rates not significantly different from their male counterparts (graduate women 9.1/100,000 and graduate men 11.6/100,000).
The Effectiveness of Suicide Prevention Centers: A Review
Authors: Lester David
Published: October 2023

This article reviews 14 studies examining whether suicide prevention centers have a preventive effect on suicide rates. Seven studies were identified that provide some support for a preventive effect, one found an increase in the suicide rates, and six failed to find any significant effects (either preventive or facilitative). The studies' different methodologies are reviewed, and limitations on the authors' conclusions pointed out. The conclusion of this article is that the evidence provides support for a preventive effect from suicide prevention centers, albeit small and inconsistently found.
5 Social Suicide
Authors: Maris Ronald W.
Published: October 2023

At first blush suicide seems like the ultimate private action. However, it is argued that social forces and social pathologies figure prominently in the dynamics of suicide interacting with more individual characteristics. Several examples of “social suicide” (intentional cotemporaneous self‐murder of two or more persons) are considered, including mass suicide, organizational self‐destruction, social analogues to individual suicide, and military suicide. Suicide prevention requires social, economic, and cultural transformations at the primary prevention level, not just individual psychotherapy and dispensing of the latest antidepressants.
PART II. Cultural Perspectives 6 Suicide in America: A Nation of Immigrants
Authors: Lester David
Published: October 2023

The patterns of suicide of immigrants are briefly explored, followed by a more detailed study of the suicidal behavior of Chinese in different nations of the world (including America), African American slaves in the 1600s and 1700s, and Native Americans. Some of the implications of the issues addressed are explored for their relevance in counseling clients from different cultures.
Suicidal Intent/Life Satisfaction: Comparing the Life Stories of Older Women
Authors: Haight Barbara K. , Hendrix Shirley A.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine the Maris hypothesis that some people have relevant biographies and life histories that predispose suicidal careers. Using a life history approach, this paper reports differing themes in the lives of two groups of older women recently relocated to a nursing home—those who are satisfied with their lives and those who are not. Twelve women were selected from a sample of 256 by their scores on a life satisfaction index or suicidal intent scale. Seventy‐two hours of transcribed life histories were content‐analyzed for dominant themes that contributed to either life satisfaction or suicidal intent. Strong overall themes emerged for both groups under the headings of childhood, families, role models, connectedness, confidantes, life involvement, death experience, and memories. However, the most important correlates to contribute to a suicidal career for ideators were dysfunctional families of origin, poor role models, a feeling of isolation, and a pessimistic outlook.
Comparison of transseptal puncture using a dedicated RF wire versus a mechanical needle with and without electrification in an animal model
Authors: Knight Bradley P. , Wasserlauf Jeremiah , Al‐Dujaili Saja , Al‐Ahmad Amin
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Mechanical force to achieve transseptal puncture (TSP) using a standard needle may lead to overshooting and injury, and can potentially be avoided using a radiofrequency (RF)‐powered needle or wire. Applying electrocautery to needles and guidewires as an alternative to purpose‐built RF systems has been associated with safety risks, such as tissue coring and thermal damage. The commercially available AcQCross needle‐dilator system (Medtronic) features a sharp open‐ended needle for mechanical puncture, as well as a built‐in connector to enable energy delivery for RF puncture. This investigation compares the safety and efficacy of the AcQCross needle to the dedicated VersaCross RF wire system and generator (Baylis Medical/Boston Scientific).

Methods

In an ex vivo porcine model, VersaCross wire punctures were performed using 1 s, constant mode (approx. 10 W) with maximum two attempts. AcQCross punctures were performed by applying energy for 2 s using a standard electrosurgical generator at 10 W (max. five attempts), 20 W (max. two attempts), and 30 W (max. two attempts). Efficacy was assessed in terms of puncture success and a number of energy applications required for TSP. Safety was assessed quantitatively as force required for TSP, energy required to puncture, and incidence of tissue coring, as well as by qualitative assessment of puncture sites. Additional qualitative observation of tissue cores and debris were obtained from TSP performed in live swine.

Results

RF TSP was 100% successful using the VersaCross wire with 1.0 ± 0.0 attempts. When power was used with the AcQCross needle, it failed to puncture at low (10 and 20 W) power settings; TSP was achieved with 30 W of energy with 91% success using 1.53 ± 0.51 attempts (p < .05 vs. VC) with greater variability (F1,33 = 9223.5, p < .0001). Compared to RF puncture using the VersaCross system, mechanical puncture, alone, using the AcQcross needle required six times more force (8 mm additional forward device displacement) to perforate the septum. Qualitative assessment of puncture sites revealed larger defects and more tissue charring with the AcQCross needle at 30 W compared to punctures with VersaCross wire. Tissue coring with the open‐ended AcQCross needle was observed in vivo and measured to occur in 57% of punctures using the ex vivo model; no coring was observed with the closed‐tip VersaCross wire.

Conclusions

The AcQCross needle frequently required higher energy of 30 W to achieve RF TSP and was associated with tissue coring and charring, which have been, previously, reported when electrifying a standard open‐ended mechanical needle or guidewire. These findings may limit safety and effectiveness compared to the VersaCross system.
Comparison of the effect of ethanol infusion into the vein of Marshall between with and without collateral veins
Authors: Ishimura Masayuki , Yamamoto Masashi , Himi Toshiharu , Kobayashi Yoshio
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite the potential benefits of ethanol infusion into the vein of Marshall (EIVOM) for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, concerns about its reversible and unpredictable effects persist.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of EIVOM in the vein of Marshall (VOM) with collateral veins (CVs) during mitral isthmus and AF ablation.

Methods

We included 142 AF patients. EIVOM was performed before radiofrequency ablation, and low‐voltage areas (<0.5 mV) were measured before, immediately after, and 1 h after EIVOM.

Results

Among the 142 patients, 93 (65%) underwent EIVOM, and among these, 35 (37%) were found to have CVs. In the VOM with CVs group, areas with low voltage measured 0 (0–1.85) cm2 before EIVOM, 6.9 (4.1–11.2) cm2 immediately after EIVOM, and 5.7 (3.5–10.6) cm2 1 h after EIVOM. Conversely, in the group designated as VOM without CVs—from which the nine leakage cases were excluded—the areas measured 0 (0–1.35) cm2, 5.5 (2.6–11.8) cm2, and 4.7 (1.8–13.5) cm2 at the respective time points. MI line block was fully achieved in 89% (31/35) of cases in the VOM with CVs group and 88% (44/49) in the VOM without CVs groups (p = .94). There was no significant difference in the outcome of AF ablation between these groups (log‐rank p = .73). Additionally, no significant difference was observed between EIVOM (+) and EIVOM (−) groups (log‐rank p = .59).

Conclusion

EIVOM effectively creates MI line block, and its beneficial effects are sustained for at least 1 h after the procedure despite the low‐voltage areas showing a slight reduction in size.
A novel cricket morph has diverged in song and wing morphology across island populations
Authors: Gallagher James H. , Zonana David M. , Broder E. Dale , Syammach Aziz M. , Tinghitella Robin M.
Published: October 2023

Divergence of sexual signals between populations can lead to speciation, yet opportunities to study the immediate aftermath of novel signal evolution are rare. The recent emergence and spread of a new mating song, purring, in Hawaiian populations of the Pacific field cricket (Teleogryllus oceanicus) allows us to investigate population divergence soon after the origin of a new signal. Male crickets produce songs with specialized wing structures to attract mates from afar (calling) and entice them to mate when found (courtship). However, in Hawaii, these songs also attract an eavesdropping parasitoid fly (Ormia ochracea) that kills singing males. The novel purring song, produced with heavily modified wing morphology, attracts female crickets but not the parasitoid fly, acting as a solution to this conflict between natural and sexual selection. We've recently observed increasing numbers of purring males across Hawaii. In this integrative field study, we investigated the distribution of purring and the proportion of purring males relative to other morphs in six populations on four islands and compared a suite of phenotypic traits (wing morphology, calling song and courtship song) that make up this novel signal across populations of purring males. We show that purring is found in varying proportions across five, and is locally dominant in four, Hawaiian populations. We also show that calling songs, courtship songs and wing morphology of purring males differ geographically. Our findings demonstrate the rapid pace of evolution in island populations and provide insights into the emergence and divergence of new sexual signals over time.

Abstract

What occurs immediately following the emergence of a successful new sexual signal? The fleeting nature of these evolutionary events makes them difficult to study, yet they have important implications for our understanding of speciation. Several years ago, a new male cricket morph arose in Hawaii that produced a novel sexual signal (song) using altered wing morphology. This novel ‘purring’ song is attractive to female crickets but protective against a deadly, eavesdropping parasitoid fly, serving as a new private mode of communication among crickets. In this study, we show that despite arising very recently, purring males are now found in multiple populations across Hawaii and have even reached fixation in one. Perhaps surprisingly, we also find that the wings and songs of purring males now differ geographically. The accelerated timeframe in which these changes have occurred provides new insights into how sexual signals can diverge in small island populations.
Life cycle assessment of prospective trajectories: A parametric approach for tailor‐made inventories and its computational implementation
Authors: Douziech Mélanie , Besseau Romain , Jolivet Raphaël , Shoai‐Tehrani Bianka , Bourmaud Jean‐Yves , Busato Guillaume , Gresset‐Bourgeois Mathilde , Pérez‐López Paula
Published: October 2023

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is a standardized, holistic, and multi‐criteria approach to estimate the environmental impacts of a system over its entire lifecycle. Modeling the environmental impacts of future scenarios and evolving systems in LCA is challenging due to lack of knowledge around technological evolutions and changing backgrounds influencing the foreground system. The method proposed here tackles these issues by combining parameterized life cycle inventories (LCIs) of foreground and background systems to assess how background changes, for example in the energy sector, affect the environmental impacts of the foreground. First, parameterized LCIs for the heating and energy sector were developed to flexibly estimate the environmental impacts of heating, gas, and electricity trajectories. Assessing their environmental impacts is essential to avoid any burden shifting to other impacts. Thanks to their parameterization, these models can represent different geographical, temporal, or technological contexts. Second, the combination of these parameterized LCIs was implemented using the Python library lca_algebraic, designed to enhance computational efficiency and calculation speed of LCAs. lca_algebraic’s features were extended to link parameters to specific LCIs and, hence, ease their import and export and facilitate teamwork. In a final step, the developed LCIs and lca_algebraic library were used to estimate the environmental impacts of French heating scenarios from 2018 until 2050, as a test of the approach. The parameterized models developed within this work are available on a Git together with published reference datasets for comparison, so that the method can be adapted to evaluate similar energy trajectories for other countries or regions. This article met the requirements for a gold–gold JIE data openness badge described at http://jie.click/badges.
Development and psychometric properties of the Couple Interaction Pattern Scale
Authors: Fang Xiaoyi , Chen Ziyuan , Tong Wei , Gao Caixin , Zhang Hongyu , Li Qingyin
Published: October 2023

This study developed the Couple Interaction Pattern Scale (CIPS) based on the interpersonal theory, comprising five subscales: friendly complementary (FC), hostile complementary (HC), mutual hostile‐dominant (MHD), friendly‐dominant eliciting hostile‐submissive (FDHS), and hostile‐dominant eliciting friendly‐submissive (HDFS). The psychometric properties of the CIPS were examined through three independent studies. Study one conducted item reduction and preliminary analysis using a sample of 662 married individuals, with an additional 80 married individuals for test–retest reliability assessment. Study two validated the scale through 1207 married individuals. In study three, the effect of couple interaction pattern (CIP) on marital quality was analyzed among 310 newlywed couples using the actor–partner interdependence model (APIM). Results supported the construct validity, acceptable internal consistency, and test–retest reliability of the CIPS. Besides, concurrent validity was also proved by associations with conflictual communication patterns, marital quality, stability, emotional connection, and perceived partner support. APIM analysis also supported the association between CIP and marital quality.
Efficacy and tolerability of the American Heartworm Society therapeutic protocol in dogs affected by heartworm disease without caval syndrome
Authors: Romito G. , Pane E. , Guglielmini C. , Poser H. , Valente C. , Paradies P. , Castagna P. , Mazzoldi C. , Cipone M.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The American Heartworm Society medical protocol represents the current standard of therapy for canine heartworm disease without caval syndrome. However, data on the tolerability of this protocol are limited. This study aimed to describe efficacy and prevalence of possible treatment‐related side effects in dogs with heartworm disease treated using the American Heartworm Society protocol.

Materials and Methods

For this retrospective multi‐centre cohort study, dogs diagnosed with classes 1 to 3 heartworm disease that completed the American Heartworm Society medical protocol were searched in four medical databases. Demographic, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic and outcome data, including the number and type of possible treatment‐related side effects, were retrieved.

Results

Thirty‐five dogs were included. The median age and bodyweight were 6 years (1 to 13 years) and 17.3 kg (4.9 to 50 kg), respectively. Heartworm disease was classified as classes 1, 2 and 3 in 20 of 35, 11 of 35 and four of 35 dogs, respectively. In addition to the therapeutic recommendations of the American Heartworm Society, eight of 35 dogs underwent sedation to favour melarsomine administration, and 30 of 35 received ice at the injection site. After adulticide therapy, all dogs were hospitalised with cage rest [median time 12 hours (6 to 48 hours)]. All dogs survived the treatment. All dogs with long‐term follow‐up (32/35) became negative. Furthermore, treatment‐related side effects were rare, mild and rapidly recovered without the need for supporting therapies; these included depression/lethargy (4/35 dogs), cough (2/35 dogs) and lameness, pain and gastrointestinal signs (1/35 dog each).

Clinical Significance

The American Heartworm Society medical protocol is efficient and safe in dogs with classes 1 to 3 heartworm disease.
Giardiasis and diarrhea in dogs: Does the microbiome matter?
Authors: Kuzi Sharon , Zgairy Soha , Byrne Barbara A. , Suchodolski Jan , Turjeman Sondra C. , Park So Young , Aroch Itamar , Hong Mike , Koren Omry , Lavy Eran
Published: October 2023

Background

Giardia duodenalis (Gd) causes intestinal parasitosis. The involvement of the intestinal microbiome in determining the infection's clinical phenotype is unknown.

Objective

Investigate the fecal microbiome features in dogs with giardiasis.

Animals and Methods

Cross‐sectional study, including fecal samples of kenneled dogs with Gd diagnosed by fecal Giardia antigen dot ELISA. The fecal microbial compositional characteristics and dysbiosis index (DI) were compared between diarrheic and nondiarrheic dogs.

Results

Fecal samples of 38 Gd‐infected dogs (diarrheic, 21; nondiarrheic, 17) were included. No differences were found in Faith's phylogenic diversity and beta diversity (weighted UniFrac distances) and in specific taxa abundances at the phylum, genus, and species levels, as well as in alpha and beta diversities between diarrheic and nondiarrheic dogs, and also when divided by sex or age. Among diarrheic dogs, alpha diversity was higher in males than in females (pairwise Kruskal‐Wallis, q = 0.01). Among males, fecal abundances of the genus Clostridium (W = 19) and Clostridium spiroforme species (W = 33) were higher in diarrheic compared to nondiarrheic dogs. In diarrheic dog fecal samples, Proteobacteria were more prevalent (W = 1), whereas Verrucomicrobia were less prevalent in dogs <1 year of age than in older dogs. The fecal sample DI of 19 diarrheic and 19 nondiarrheic dogs was similar (median, −0.2; range, −4.3 to 4.5 and median, −1.0; range, −4.3 to 5.8, respectively).

Conclusions

The fecal microbial composition of symptomatic and asymptomatic dogs with giardiasis is similar. Based on fecal DI, giardiasis is not characterized by prominent dysbiosis. Other host and parasite characteristics might determine the severity of giardiasis in dogs.
The efficacy and safety of cannabidiol as adjunct treatment for drug‐resistant idiopathic epilepsy in 51 dogs: A double‐blinded crossover study
Authors: Rozental Aaron J. , Weisbeck Brooke G. , Corsato Alvarenga Isabella , Gustafson Daniel L. , Kusick Breonna R. , Rao Sangeeta , Bartner Lisa R. , McGrath Stephanie
Published: October 2023

Background

Approximately 30% of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE) are drug‐resistant. Recent studies have suggested cannabidiol (CBD) may be an effective anticonvulsant in dogs with IE.

Objective

To evaluate the addition of CBD to antiseizure drugs (ASDs) on seizure frequency and to report adverse events in dogs with drug‐resistant IE.

Animals

Fifty‐one dogs. Dogs having at least 2 seizures per month while receiving at least 1 ASD were included in the trial.

Methods

Double‐blinded placebo‐controlled crossover study. The 5 mg/kg/day dosage met futility requirements after 12 dogs, and a dosage of 9 mg/kg/day was used in the next 39 dogs. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive CBD or placebo for 3 months, with a 1‐month washout period between oils. Total numbers of seizures and seizure days were recorded. Diagnostic testing was performed periodically throughout the trial.

Results

At the 9 mg/kg/day dose, the decrease in total seizure frequency was significant compared with placebo. A 24.1% decrease in seizure days occurred in dogs receiving CBD and a 5.8% increase occurred in dogs receiving placebo (P ≤ .05). No significant difference was found in the number of responders (≥50% decrease in total seizures or seizure days). Liver enzyme activities increased at both dosages. Decreased appetite and vomiting were more common in the CBD phase (P ≤ .05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cannabidiol decreased total seizures and seizure days compared to placebo when administered to dogs PO at 9 mg/kg/day. Liver enzymes should be monitored with administration of CBD in dogs.
Surgical ciliated cysts of the mandible: A systematic review of case reports
Authors: Brisset Mathieu , Cambronne Clément , Ferrer Mélanie , Cousty Sarah , Dubuc Antoine
Published: October 2023

Background

Surgical ciliated cysts occur mainly in the maxillae after radical maxillary sinus surgery; they rarely develop in the mandible. This study aims to gather information on all the characteristics of patients suffering from mandibular surgical ciliated cysts. This article also reports two new cases.

Methods

PubMed, Google Scholar and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were explored until 13 December 2022 for articles regarding mandibular surgical ciliated cysts. Maxillary ciliated cysts were excluded.

Results

Fourteen original articles were included in a total of 16 cases. Maxillofacial surgeries are the first aetiology (94.4%). Surgical ciliated cysts of the mandibular region show a 1.25:1 male‐to‐female ratio with a protracted time to diagnosis (range: 2–56 years). Most patients are symptomatic (77.8%). Typically, radiology shows a radiolucency lesion (88.9%) and histology describes pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium. Enucleation has always been described as the treatment.

Discussion

All results were case reports, thus a low level of evidence studies. Mandibular surgical ciliated cysts should be considered in patients presenting a mandibular swelling or radiolucency lesion with a maxillofacial surgery history. Meticulous surgical techniques can aid in the prevention of this lesion.
Endofungal bacteria and ectomycorrhizal fungi synergistically promote the absorption of organic phosphorus in Pinus massoniana
Authors: Mei Yan , Zhang Meiling , Cao Gengyue , Zhu Jiale , Zhang Aiyue , Bai Hongyan , Dai Chuanchao , Jia Yong
Published: October 2023

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECMFs) that are involved in phosphorus mobilisation and turnover have limited ability to mineralise phytate alone. The endofungal bacteria in the ectomycorrhizal fruiting body may contribute to achieving this ecological function of ECMFs. We investigated the synergistic effect and mechanisms of endofungal bacteria and ECMF Suillus grevillea on phytate mineralisation. The results showed that soluble phosphorus content in the combined system of endofungal bacterium Cedecea lapagei and S. grevillea was 1.8 times higher than the sum of C. lapagei and S. grevillea alone treatment under the phytate mineralisation experiment. The S. grevillea could first chemotactically assist C. lapagei in adhering to the surface of S. grevillea. Then, the mineralisation of phytate was synergistically promoted by increasing the biomass of C. lapagei and the phosphatase and phytase activities of S. grevillea. The expression of genes related to chemotaxis, colonisation, and proliferation of C. lapagei and genes related to phosphatase and phytase activity of S. grevillea was also significantly upregulated. Furthermore, in the pot experiment, we verified that there might exist a ternary symbiotic system in the natural forest in which endofungal bacteria and ECMFs could synergistically promote phytate uptake in the plant Pinus massoniana via the ectomycorrhizal system.