bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrothermal Conditions Modulate the Impact of Climate Extremes on Vegetation Growth in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Xu Zhen , Liu Duqi , Zhao Lujie
Published: August 2024

Aim

Climate extremes are becoming more frequent under global warming, with substantial repercussions for vegetation growth. The degree to which climate extremes increase the risk of high‐impact events on vegetation growth is of high concern.

Location

Northern Hemisphere (north of 30°N).

Time Period

From 2001 to 2022.

Major Taxa Studied

Plants.

Methods

We utilised solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) and the normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) as proxies for vegetation growth. We performed event coincidence and sensitivity analyses to attribute satellite‐derived vegetation growth extremes to diverse climate extremes (extreme heat, cold, wet and drought) in the Northern Hemisphere.

Results

Our results showed that extreme heat and cold were the main climatic extremes that induced positive and negative vegetation growth extremes north of 30°N, respectively, mainly in cold and humid ecosystems (boreal and temperate forests). Water‐related extreme events accounted for less than one‐third of vegetation extremes. The contribution of drought to positive vegetation growth extreme events (approximately 17%), mainly in cold and humid ecosystems, was even slightly higher than that of extreme wet (approximately 12%), which predominantly impacted relatively warm and arid ecosystems (croplands and temperate grasslands). We further identified potential climatic thresholds that could reverse vegetation growth responses to climate extremes (temperature is 12.5°C and climatic water deficit is ‐60 mm, approximately). We also showed that the past two decades of warming and precipitation changes did not induce a shift in the main climatic drivers of vegetation extremes across northern ecosystems.

Main Conclusions

Our results emphasise the crucial role of background hydrothermal conditions in the attribution of vegetation growth extremes to diverse climate extremes across northern ecosystems and have substantial implications for predicting how Northern Hemisphere vegetation will respond to increasing climate extremes in the future.
Predation on Live and Artificial Insect Prey Shows Different Global Latitudinal Patterns
Authors: Zvereva Elena L. , Adroit Benjamin , Andersson Tommi , Barnett Craig R. A. , Branco Sofia , Castagneyrol Bastien , Chiarenza Giancarlo Maria , Dáttilo Wesley , del‐Val Ek , Filip Jan , Griffith Jory , Hargreaves Anna L. , Hernández‐Agüero Juan Antonio , Silva Isabelle L. H. , Hong Yixuan , Kietzka Gabriella , Klimeš Petr , Koistinen Max , Kruglova Oksana Y. , Kumpula Satu , Lopezosa Paula , March‐Salas Marti , Marquis Robert J. , Marusik Yuri M. , Moles Angela T. , Muola Anne , Murkwe Mercy , Nakamura Akihiro , Olson Cameron , Pagani‐Núñez Emilio , Popova Anna , Rahn Olivia , Reshchikov Alexey , Rodriguez‐Campbell Antonio , Rytkönen Seppo , Sam Katerina , Sounapoglou Antigoni , Tropek Robert , Wenda Cheng , Xu Guorui , Zeng Yu , Zolotarev Maxim , Zubrii Natalia A. , Zverev Vitali , Kozlov Mikhail V.
Published: August 2024

Aim

Long‐standing theory predicts that the intensity of biotic interactions increases from high to low latitudes. Studies addressing geographic variation in predation on insect prey have often relied on prey models, which lack many characteristics of live prey. Our goals were to explore global latitudinal patterns of predator attack rates on standardised live insect prey and to compare the patterns in predation on live insects with those on plasticine prey models.

Location

Global forested areas.

Time Period

2021–2023.

Major Taxa

Arthropods, birds.

Methods

We measured predation rates in 43 forested locations distributed across five continents from 34.1° S to 69.5° N latitude. At each location, we exposed 20 sets of three bait types, one set per tree. Each set included three live fly larvae (maggots), three live fly puparia and three plasticine models of the puparia. We used glue rings to isolate half of the sets from non‐flying predators.

Results

Arthropod attack rates on plasticine prey decreased linearly from low to high latitudes, whereas attack rates on maggots had a U shaped distribution, with the lowest predation rates at temperate latitudes and the highest rates at tropical and boreal latitudes. This difference emerged from intensive predator attacks on live maggots, but not on plasticine models, in boreal sites. Site‐specific attack rates of arthropod predators on live and plasticine prey were not correlated. In contrast, bird attack rates on live maggots and plasticine models were positively correlated, but did not show significant latitudinal changes.

Main Conclusions

Latitudinal patterns in predation differ between major groups of predators and between types of prey. Poleward decreases in both arthropod and combined arthropod and bird predation on plasticine models do not mirror patterns of predation on our live prey, the latter likely reflecting real patterns of predation risk better than do patterns of attack on artificial prey.
Climatic Predictors of Long‐Distance Migratory Birds Breeding Productivity Across Europe
Authors: Hanzelka Jan , Telenský Tomáš , Koleček Jaroslav , Procházka Petr , Robinson Robert A. , Baltà Oriol , Cepák Jaroslav , Gargallo Gabriel , Henry Pierre‐Yves , Henshaw Ian , van der Jeugd Henk , Karcza Zsolt , Lehikoinen Petteri , Meister Bert , Nebot Arantza Leal , Piha Markus , Thorup Kasper , Tøttrup Anders P. , Reif Jiří
Published: August 2024

Aim

Ongoing climate changes represent a major determinant of demographic processes in many organisms worldwide. Birds, and especially long‐distance migrants, are particularly sensitive to such changes. To better understand these impacts on long‐distance migrants' breeding productivity, we tested three hypotheses focused on (i) the shape of the relationships with different climate variables, including previously rarely tested quadratic responses, and on regional differences in these relationships predicted by (ii) mean climatic conditions and (iii) by the rate of climate change in respective regions ranging from Spain to Finland.

Location

Europe.

Time Period

2004–2021.

Major Taxa Studied

Long‐distance migratory passerine birds.

Methods

We calculated breeding productivity from constant effort ringing sites from 11 European countries covering 34° of latitude, and extracted temperature‐ and precipitation‐related climate variables from E‐OBS and NASA MODIS datasets. To test our hypotheses, we fitted GLMM and Bayesian meta‐analytic models.

Results

We revealed hump‐shaped responses of productivity to temperature, growing degree‐days, green‐up onset date, and precipitation anomaly, and negative responses to intense and prolonged rains across the regions. The effects of March temperature and April growing degree‐days were more negative in cold than in warm regions, except for the region with the highest accumulated heat, whereas increasing June precipitation anomalies were associated with higher productivity in both dry and wet regions. Productivity responses to climate were unrelated to the rate of climate warming.

Main Conclusions

The influence of climate on bird productivity proved to be frequently nonlinear, as expected by ecological theory. The rate of climate change is less important than regional interannual variability in climate (which is predicted to increase), but this may change with the progression of climate change in the future. Productivity declines in long‐distance migratory songbirds are particularly expected if out‐of‐norm water excess increases in frequency or strength.
Characteristics of Helicobacter pylori Eradication Therapy in Patients 80 Years or Older Living in a Metropolitan Area: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Iwata Eri , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Asaoka Daisuke , Hojo Mariko , Ito Masayoshi , Kitazawa Naoko , Kurihara Naoto , Masaoka Tatsuhiro , Mizuno Shigeaki , Mori Hideki , Nagahara Akihito , Niikura Ryota , Ohkusa Toshifumi , Sano Masaya , Shimada Yuji , Suzuki Hidekazu , Takeuchi Yoshiaki , Tanaka Akifumi , Tokunaga Kengo , Ueda Kumiko , Sakaki Nobuhiro , Takahashi Shin'ichi , Kawai Takashi
Published: August 2024

Background

The situation of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy has been changing over time, owing to increases in antimicrobial‐resistant strains, lifestyle improvements, and changes in indications for eradication. In Japan, eradication therapy is now available to all H. pylori‐positive patients under the medical insurance system, and the potassium‐competitive acid blocker vonoprazan has been used for eradication from 2015. Recently, with the aging of society, opportunities to provide eradication to elderly patients are increasing, but the current status and effectiveness of eradication in elderly patients remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the trends of H. pylori eradication in a metropolitan area to determine the factors associated with successful H. pylori eradication in elderly patients older than 80 years.

Methods

Trends in the eradication rates of patients who received first‐ or second‐line eradication at 20 hospitals in the Tokyo metropolitan area from 2013 to 2023 were investigated.

Results

The eradication rates in the per‐protocol analysis were 82.3% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 81.2%–83.2%) for the first‐line treatment (n = 6481), and 87.9% (86.9%–88.9%) for the second‐line treatment (n = 4899). Multivariate analysis showed that independent factors for successful eradication in the first‐line treatment were an age of older than 80 years (OR: 0.606; 95% CI: 0.448–0.822), peptic ulcers (vs. atrophic gastritis: 3.817; 3.286–4.433), and vonoprazan (vs. proton pump inhibiters (PPIs), 3.817; 3.286–4.433), and an age of older than 80 years (0.503; 0.362–0.699) and vonoprazan (1.386; 1.153–1.667) in the second‐line treatment.

Conclusion

After 2015, the eradication rate of both first‐ and second‐line therapies were maintained at a higher level than before 2015, owing to the use of vonoprazan. As the H. pylori eradication rate in patients older than 80 years was low, an effective strategy for these patients needs to be developed in the future.
Significance of changes in tumor markers in patients treated with durvalumab plus tremelimumab combination therapy as a surrogate marker for tumor response to unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Uchikawa Shinsuke , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Murakami Serami , Miura Ryoichi , Shirane Yuki , Johira Yusuke , Kosaka Masanari , Fujii Yasutoshi , Fujino Hatsue , Ono Atsushi , Murakami Eisuke , Miki Daiki , Hayes C. Nelson , Tsuge Masataka , Oka Shiro
Published: August 2024

Aim

When evaluating response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy, the tumor sometimes initially swells before shrinking and ultimately responding, also called pseudo‐progression. In this study, we analyzed whether tumor markers were useful for reflecting the treatment response.

Methods

Thirty‐three patients who were treated with durvalumab plus tremelimumab combination therapy (Dur + Tre) were enrolled. Their functional reserve was Child–Pugh grade A. Their tumor markers α‐fetoprotein (AFP), des‐γ‐carboxy prothrombin (DCP), or AFP‐Lectin 3 fraction (AFP‐L3) were positive. Tumor markers were evaluated before treatment and at 1, 4, and 8 weeks after the start of treatment. The first radiological evaluation was carried out at 4 weeks and the second evaluation at 8–12 weeks. The responders included those with complete response and partial response and the nonresponders included those with stable disease (SD) and progression disease at best response evaluated by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors.

Results

In the responder group, the change ratio of AFP, DCP, and AFP‐L3 specifically decreased at 8 weeks. In the nonresponder group, the change ratio of DCP specifically increased at 4 weeks. The optimal cut‐off value to divide responders and nonresponders at 4 weeks was approximately −40%. The ratio of responders was 72.7% in the patients whose AFP or DCP decreased over 40% at 4 weeks.

Conclusions

The change in tumor markers is a more useful predicter of tumor response to Dur + Tre than imaging evaluation alone.
Patient and Staff Insights on Digital Care Pathways for Patients With Low Back Pain in the Emergency Department: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bell Emily C. , Heng Hazel , Alousis Nicole , King Matthew G. , Hahne Andrew , Collins Thomas , See Katharine , Webster Tracey , O'Dowd Elisha , Jackson Paul , Semciw Adam I.
Published: August 2024

Background

Back pain is a huge global problem. For some people, the pain is so severe that they feel the need to present to an emergency department (ED). Our aim was to explore patient and staff perspectives for the development of a digital care pathway (DCP) for people with back pain who have presented to ED, including acceptability, barriers and facilitators.

Methods

We used a descriptive phenomenology approach using semi‐structured interviews with patient and staff participants at a tertiary hospital. Interviews were transcribed and data codes were developed using inductive thematic analysis. Themes were discussed between researchers until consensus was achieved.

Results

A total of 16 interviews were carried out, half of which involved patient participants. We identified three major themes: (i) expectations and experiences of staff and patients with low back pain in ED; (ii) a digital care pathway can empower patients and support clinicians in providing care; and (iii) acceptability, barriers, facilitators and recommendations of engaging with a DCP to track the trajectory of back pain. Each theme was further categorised into subthemes.

Conclusion

Introducing a DCP was perceived as acceptable and beneficial by patients and staff. Both groups were aware of the potential participant burden if surveys were too long. Introducing a DCP could be a valuable adjunct to current management care models, providing a standardised source of education with the potential for individualised tracking and monitoring. The design and development of a DCP will need to consider reported facilitators and address perceived barriers for engagement.

Patient or Public Contribution

This project sought insights from patients and staff about a digital care pathway. This forms the first step of patient and consumer consultation before implementing a digital care pathway. All consumers were offered the opportunity to review their responses and our interpretation.
The Memoir of a Ghost: The Invisible Plight of Mental Health Nurse Education in the United Kingdom Following the Nursing and Midwifery Council's Move Towards Genericism
Authors: Warrender Dan
Published: August 2024

The aim of this paper is to identify barriers to quality mental health nurse education in the United Kingdom and show these through the sharing of personal experiences of working as a mental health nurse academic. Since the Nursing and Midwifery Council introduced their ‘future nurse’ education standards in 2018, mental health content for mental health nurses has been argued to have been marginalised. The sense of a diluted mental health nurse education was supported by an open letter, signed by over 100 mental health nurses, with representation across 33 universities. Nonetheless, the approach taken by the NMC has been defended. Meanwhile, mental health nurse academics all over the United Kingdom are having varying experiences, some of incredible discomfort and invalidation. The movement ‘mental health deserves better’ arose through many of these mental health nurses feeling they had no representation or channel to voice their concerns. This is a personal position paper which outlines barriers to autonomy for mental health nurse academics, and shares personal opinion on experiences which have impacted the ability to deliver a depth of knowledge, skill and critical thinking to students, impacting the quality of new mental health nurse graduates. The issue is discussed using contemporary literature to support lines of argument, which are augmented by personal experiences of working in nurse education. There are complex interconnected issues within nurse education which can hinder the autonomy of mental health nursing to decide its own future. This paper recounts a personal journey. Often we cannot understand the failings of a system until we try to navigate it from the inside.
Creating a local managerial regime in global context: The case of the Bangladesh ready‐made garment sector
Authors: Zaman Sawlat , Jenkins Jean
Published: August 2024

This article analyses the strategic construction of a factory management regime as an instrument of local value extraction, set against an intensely competitive global value chain in the apparel sector. The article focuses on Bangladesh where, as elsewhere, work in ready‐made garment factories is characterised by long hours, poor pay, hostility to freedom of association and the suppression of independent collective bargaining. This article presents a long‐term study of the ways that managers who preside over such environments are identified, recruited and deployed. In the context of the global value chain in garments, this article shines a light on managerial regimes which squeeze labour and perpetuate inequality as part of extracting value at workplace level, in the context of a broader, internationally dispersed, industrial regime of exploitation.
Exploring physical activity experiences of community‐dwelling oldest‐old adults with chronic multimorbidity: A qualitative study
Authors: López‐Novis Irene , Marques‐Sule Elena , Deka Pallav , Dobarrio‐Sanz Iria , Klompstra Leonie , Hernández‐Padilla José Manuel
Published: August 2024

Aim

To explore the physical activity experiences of community‐dwelling oldest‐old adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Design

Descriptive qualitative study.

Method

Data collection was conducted through semi‐structured interviews with 19 community‐dwelling oldest‐old adults with chronic multimorbidity. The study was conducted between December 2022 and May 2023. ATLAS.ti software was used for data analysis.

Results

Three main themes with their respective sub‐themes and units of meaning were developed from the data analysis: (1) motivational factors for engaging in physical activity; (2) fear of getting hurt during physical activity and (3) confidence in being physically active.

Conclusion

Motivation, kinesiophobia and confidence are three core elements that influence the experience of physical activity in oldest‐old adults with chronic multimorbidity. Interventions tailored to meet the needs of the oldest‐old adults are important for promotion and development of active ageing.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Nurses and other healthcare professionals should design, implement and evaluate interventions that aim to increase oldest‐old adults' motivation and confidence, while decreasing their fear to engage in physical activity.

Impact

This study provides insights into the way community‐dwelling oldest‐old adults with chronic multimorbidity experience physical activity in their daily lives. Our findings suggest that motivation, kinesiophobia and confidence are key factors for oldest‐old adults to engage in physical activity. These findings could contribute to the design and implementation of interventions that specifically aim at raising the physical activity levels of community‐dwelling oldest‐old adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Reporting Method

The study findings are reported according to the COREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
3,3′,4,5′‐Tetramethoxy‐trans‐stilbene and 3,4′,5‐trimethoxy‐trans‐stilbene prevent oxygen–glucose deprivation‐induced injury in brain endothelial cell
Authors: Zhou Chunxiu , Zhou Yan , Vong Chi Teng , Khan Haroon , Cheang Wai San
Published: August 2024

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption is a major pathophysiological event of ischemic stroke. Brain microvascular endothelial cells are critical to maintain homeostasis between central nervous system and periphery. Resveratrol protects against ischemic stroke. 3,3′,4,5′‐tetramethoxy‐trans‐stilbene (3,3′,4,5′‐TMS) and 3,4′,5‐trimethoxy‐trans‐stilbene (3,4′,5‐TMS) are resveratrol derivatives with addition of methoxy groups, showing better pharmacokinetic performance. We aimed to explore their protective effects and underlying mechanisms. Oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) model was applied in bEnd.3 cell line, mouse brain microvascular endothelium to mimic ischemia. The cells were pre‐treated with 3,3′,4,5′‐TMS or 3,4′,5‐TMS (1 and 5 μM, 24 h) and then subjected to 2‐h OGD injury. Cell viability, levels of proinflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species (ROS), and protein expressions were measured by molecular assays and fluorescence staining. OGD injury triggered cell death, inflammatory responses, ROS production and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) signalling pathway. These impairments were remarkably attenuated by the two stilbenes, 3,3′,4,5′‐TMS and 3,4′,5‐TMS. They also alleviated endothelial barrier injuries through upregulating the expression of tight junction proteins. Moreover, 3,3′,4,5′‐TMS and 3,4′,5‐TMS activated 5′ adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Overall, 3,3′,4,5′‐TMS and 3,4′,5‐TMS exert protective effects against OGD damage through suppressing cell death, inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, as well as BBB disruption on bEnd.3 cells.
Ophiopogonin D′ inhibited tumour growth and metastasis of anaplastic thyroid cancer by modulating JUN/RGS4 signalling
Authors: Xu Tong , Zhang Wanli , Zhang Yiwen , Song Feifeng , Huang Ping
Published: August 2024

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), an aggressive malignancy with virtually 100% disease‐specific mortality, has long posed a formidable challenge in oncology due to its resistance to conventional treatments and the severe side effects associated with current regimens such as doxorubicin chemotherapy. Consequently, there was urgent need to identify novel candidate compounds that could provide innovative therapeutic strategies for ATC. Ophiopogonin D′ (OPD'), a triterpenoid saponin extracted, yet its roles in ATC has not been reported. Our data demonstrated that OPD' potently inhibited proliferation and metastasis of ATC cells, promoting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Remarkably, OPD' impeded growth and metastasis of ATC in vitro and in vivo, displaying an encouraging safety profile. Regulator of G‐protein signalling 4 (RGS4) expression was significantly up‐regulated in ATC compared to normal tissues, and this upregulation was suppressed by OPD' treatment. Mechanistically, we elucidated that the transcription factor JUN bound to the RGS4 promoter, driving its transactivation. However, OPD' interacted with JUN, attenuating its transcriptional activity and thereby disrupting RGS4 overexpression. In summary, our research revealed that OPD' bound with JUN, which in turn resulted in the suppression of transcriptional activation of RGS4, thereby eliciting cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in ATC cells. These findings could offer promise in the development of high‐quality candidate compounds for treatment in ATC.
Effect of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease on BNT162b2 immunogenicity against the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 omicron variant
Authors: Lam Lok Ka , Tan Jing Tong , Ooi Poh Hwa , Zhang Ruiqi , Chan Kwok Hung , Mao Xianhua , Hung Ivan F N , Seto Wai Kay , Yuen Man Fung , Cheung Ka Shing
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

We aimed to investigate the effect of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) on three‐dose BNT162b2 immunogenicity to the omicron variant.

Methods

Adult recipients of three doses of BNT162b2 were prospectively recruited between May and December 2021. The serology of the neutralizing antibody by live virus microneutralization (vMN) to the omicron variant was measured at baseline, day 180, and day 360 after the first dose. The primary outcome was seroconversion (vMN titer ≥ 10) at day 360. Exposure of interest was MASLD, defined as hepatic steatosis (controlled attenuation parameter ≥ 248 dB/m on transient elastography) plus at least one of five cardiometabolic risk factors. Subjects with prior COVID‐19 were excluded. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to derive the adjusted odds ratio of seroconversion with MASLD by adjusting for age, sex, antibiotic use, and proton pump inhibitor use.

Results

One hundred forty‐eight BNT162b2 recipients (male: 48 [32.4%]; median age: 51.0 years [interquartile range, IQR: 44.5–57.3]) were recruited. The median time from the first dose to the third dose was 8.5 months (IQR: 7.9–8.9). MASLD subjects had a lower seroconversion rate than non‐MASLD ones (89.6% vs 99.0%; P = 0.007). MASLD was the only independent risk factor for seroconversion (adjusted odds ratio: 0.051, 95% confidence interval: 0.002–0.440). Subgroup analysis of immunogenicity at 4 months after the third dose shows significantly lower vMN titer (13.06 [IQR: 7.69–22.20] vs 33.49 [IQR: 24.05–46.53]; P = 0.004) and seroconversion rate (76.9% vs 97.4%; P = 0.016) in MASLD than non‐MASLD subjects, but not within 4 months from the third dose (vMN titer: 46.87 [IQR: 33.12–66.02] vs 41.86 [IQR: 34.47–50.91], P = 0.240; seroconversion rate: 94.3% vs 100%, P = 0.131).

Conclusion

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease was a risk factor for poorer immunogenicity to the omicron variant, with a more pronounced waning effect compared among three‐dose BNT162b2 recipients.
Phylotranscriptomic and ecological analyses reveal the evolution and morphological adaptation of Abies
Authors: Wei Zhou‐Rui , Jiao Dan , Wehenkel Christian Anton , Wei Xiao‐Xin , Wang Xiao‐Quan
Published: August 2024

Coniferous forests are under severe threat of the rapid anthropogenic climate warming. Abies (firs), the fourth‐largest conifer genus, is a keystone component of the boreal and temperate dark‐coniferous forests and harbors a remarkably large number of relict taxa. However, the uncertainty of the phylogenetic and biogeographic history of Abies significantly impedes our prediction of future dynamics and efficient conservation of firs. In this study, using 1,533 nuclear genes generated from transcriptome sequencing and a complete sampling of all widely recognized species, we have successfully reconstructed a robust phylogeny of global firs, in which four clades are strongly supported and all intersectional relationships are resolved, although phylogenetic discordance caused mainly by incomplete lineage sorting and hybridization was detected. Molecular dating and ancestral area reconstruction suggest a Northern Hemisphere high‐latitude origin of Abies during the Late Cretaceous, but all extant firs diversified during the Miocene to the Pleistocene, and multiple continental and intercontinental dispersals took place in response to the late Neogene climate cooling and orogenic movements. Notably, four critically endangered firs endemic to subtropical mountains of China, including A. beshanzuensis, A. ziyuanensis, A. fanjingshanensis and A. yuanbaoshanensis from east to west, have different origins and evolutionary histories. Moreover, three hotspots of species richness, including western North America, central Japan, and the Hengduan Mountains, were identified in Abies. Elevation and precipitation, particularly precipitation of the coldest quarter, are the most significant environmental factors driving the global distribution pattern of fir species diversity. Some morphological traits are evolutionarily constrained, and those linked to elevational variation (e.g., purple cone) and cold resistance (e.g., pubescent branch and resinous bud) may have contributed to the diversification of global firs. Our study sheds new light on the spatiotemporal evolution of global firs, which will be of great help to forest management and species conservation in a warming world.
Neuropsychology and Politics Collide in the 2024 US Presidential Election: Pitfalls of attacks on age, language, and memory
Authors: Reilly Jamie
Published: August 2024

Public perception of dementia has emerged as a key factor in the 2024 United States presidential election. The first televised presidential debate (27 June 2024) evoked a groundswell of concern about the neuropsychological health and political viability of President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. A rapid erosion of public support ensued, culminating in the collapse of the reelection campaign the following month. Political attacks on the cognitive fitness of world leaders create dissonance for clinical neuroscientists. We are ethically prohibited from remotely diagnosing public figures. Yet, we are also citizens with the right to feel and express personal concerns. In this commentary, I will address an often‐uneasy relationship between politics and neuropsychology with a focus on the history and rationale for ethical guidelines such as the Goldwater Rule. I will also discuss lessons learned from recent events in the 2024 US election cycle about neurological health literacy (e.g. How is dementia diagnosed?) and broader impacts of age‐based political attacks on global public health initiatives that target stigma reduction and improved early detection of dementia.
A longitudinal study of the role of fingers in the development of early number and arithmetic skills in children with Apert syndrome
Authors: Hilton Caroline
Published: August 2024

This paper discusses a longitudinal study with children with Apert syndrome aged between 4 and 11 years. There has long been an interest in the role of fingers in the development of early number skills and arithmetic. As children with Apert syndrome are born with complex fusions of their fingers, they have to undergo several surgical procedures in order to obtain individuated fingers. This has implications for their finger mobility and finger awareness. It has been suggested that children with Apert syndrome have specific difficulties with early number and arithmetic activities. The findings from this study suggest that engaging children with Apert syndrome in activities that develop finger awareness (finger gnosis) and finger mobility (fine motor skills) may have a positive impact on their ability to engage with appropriate mathematics curricula at school. This is relevant to all those involved in the care of children with Apert syndrome and will be of particular relevance to those involved in early childhood and primary education. This study also provides new insights into the role of finger use in the development of skills and understanding in early number and arithmetic.
The condition of hair follicles produced by different punching methods during FUE surgery
Authors: Kim Jino , Ko Yong‐Uk , Yi Kyu‐Ho
Published: August 2024

Background

Achieving successful outcomes in hair transplant surgery involves various critical factors, including donor area harvesting, graft survival, and minimizing post‐operative complications. This study investigates the differences in grafts obtained using the rotary and oscillatory punch methods during follicular unit extraction (FUE) surgery.

Methods

The study involved 15 patients undergoing FUE. Four 4 × 6 cm2 areas in two rows were selected for each patient, with each row utilizing a different punch method (rotary or oscillatory). The grafts were extracted and examined under a microscope, classified into single, double single, double, and triple categories. The total yield rate and average number of hairs per graft were measured and compared.

Results

The average number of hair follicles per graft was 2.029 for the rotary method and 2.084 for the oscillatory method, indicating no statistically significant difference. However, the total yield rate was 88.3% for the rotary group and 90.5% for the oscillatory group, with the difference being statistically significant. In selected cases with soft scalps or deeper punch requirements, the oscillatory method showed significantly better results, with an average of 2.078 hairs per graft compared to 1.836 for the rotary method. The total yield rate in these cases was 91% for oscillatory and 86% for rotary.

Conclusion

While the overall differences between rotary and oscillatory punches are minimal, the oscillatory punch is significantly more effective in cases with soft scalps or deeper punch requirements. Adhering to a structured guideline before extraction can help reduce the transection rate and increase the number of hairs per graft.
Commentary on: Factors influencing foot care behaviour among patients with diabetes: An integrative literature review by Woo MWJ, CUI J (2023)
Authors: Delbene Lara , Zanini Milko , Catania Gianluca , Aleo Giuseppe , Bagnasco Annamaria
Published: August 2024

The review by Woo et al. reports on factors influencing behaviour in the care of the diabetic foot, wich are common in diabetic patients and have a high risk of infection and amputation. To improve patient's knowledge and education on foot care, this commentary proposes the Barrows cards as an innovative user‐friendly educational method. Conclusion and implications for profession and patient care: adapting these cards to adult diabetic patients could prevent future complications, improving quality of life and reduce the risks associated with diabetes. No patient or public contribution.
Team informational resources, information elaboration, and team innovation: Diversity mindset moderating functional diversity and boundary spanning scouting effects
Authors: van Knippenberg Daan , Li Jia , Tu Yidong
Published: August 2024

The knowledge integration perspective on team innovation holds that information elaboration – the exchange, discussion, and integration of task‐relevant information and perspectives – is the core team process driving team innovation. Factors reflecting the informational resources the team can draw on through information elaboration therefore are important influences on team innovation. In this respect, team innovation research points to team functional diversity and to team boundary spanning scouting to acquire information from outside the team. Team innovation research also makes clear that informational resources (as reflected in functional diversity and boundary spanning scouting) do not guarantee team information elaboration, and that identifying moderation in this relationship is particularly valuable. Building on this state of the science, we focus on the moderating role of the team diversity mindset – members' shared understanding of the importance of information elaboration for team performance – in the relationships of team functional diversity and boundary spanning scouting with information elaboration and team innovation. A multi‐wave and multi‐source survey of N = 215 teams involved in knowledge work in various Chinese organizations supported our research model for team boundary spanning scouting but not for team functional diversity.
Comparing microstructural and micromechanical deformation of the TMJ disc in two anterior disc displacement models
Authors: Zhou Jiahao , Ren Rong , Zhan Yanjing , Song Ning , Zhu Songsong , Jiang Nan
Published: August 2024

Objective

Anterior disc displacement (ADD) has been used to establish temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) models. Based on whether preserve of the retrodiscal attachment, the modelling methodologies include ADD with dissecting the retrodiscal attachment (ADDwd) and ADD without dissecting the retrodiscal attachment (ADDwod). This article aims to determine which model better matches the micromechanical and microstructural progression of TMD.

Methods

Through meticulous microscopic observations, the microstructure and micromechanical deformation of the TMJ discs in ADDwd and ADDwod rabbit models were compared at 2 and 20 weeks.

Result

Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy showed that collagen fibres became slenderized and straightened, collagen fibrils lost diameter and arrangement in the ADDwd group at 2 weeks. Meanwhile, nanoindentation and atomic electron microscopy showed that the micro‐ and nano‐ mechanical properties decreased dramatically. However, the ADDwod group exhibited no significant microstructure and micromechanical deformations at 2 weeks. Dissection of the retrodiscal attachment contribute in the acceleration of disease progression at the early stage, the devastating discal phenotype remained fundamentally the same within the two models at 20 weeks.

Conclusion

ADDwod models, induced stable and persistent disc deformation, therefore, can better match the progression of TMD. While ADDwd models can be considered for experiments which aim to obtain advanced phenotype in a short time.
Structural MRI findings in the brain related to pain distribution in chronic overlapping pain conditions: An explorative case–control study in females with fibromyalgia, temporomandibular disorder‐related chronic pain and pain‐free controls
Authors: Lam Julia , Mårtensson Johan , Westergren Hans , Svensson Peter , Sundgren Pia C. , Alstergren Per
Published: August 2024

Background

Few neuroimaging studies have investigated structural brain differences associated with variations in pain distribution.

Objective

To explore structural differences of the brain in fibromyalgia (FM), temporomandibular disorder pain (TMD) and healthy pain‐free controls (CON) using structural and diffusion MRI.

Methods

A case–control exploratory study with three study groups with different pain distribution were recruited: FM (n = 16; mean age [standard deviation]: 44 [14] years), TMD (n = 17, 39 [14] years) and CON (n = 10, 37 [14] years). Participants were recruited at the University Dental Clinic in Malmö, Sweden. T1‐weighted and diffusion MRIs were acquired, clinical and psychosocial measures were obtained. Main outcome measures were subcortical volume, cortical thickness, white matter microstructure and whole brain grey matter intensity.

Results

Patients with FM had smaller volume in the right thalamus than patients with TMD (p = .020) and CON (p = .030). The right thalamus volume was negatively correlated to pain intensity (r = −0.37, p = .022) and pain‐related disability (r = −0.45, p = .004). The FM group had lower cortical thickness in the right anterior prefrontal cortex than CON (p = .005). Cortical thickness in this area was negatively correlated to pain intensity (r [37] = − 0.48, p = .002).

Conclusions

This study suggests that thalamus grey matter alterations are associated with FM and TMD, and that anterior prefrontal cortex grey matter alterations are associated with FM but not TMD. Studies on chronic overlapping pain conditions are needed in relation to possible nociplastic pain mechanisms in the brain and central nervous system.
Effects of spinal mobilisation in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Küçük Eylem , Öten Erol , Coşkun Gürsoy
Published: August 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of spinal mobilisation on curvature magnitude, angle of trunk rotation (ATR) and pulmonary function in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).

Methods

Conducted as a double‐blind randomised controlled trial, the study included 40 patients with AIS (Cobb angles 10°–25°) randomised to experimental (n = 20; female = 12, male = 8; age = 12.9 ± 1.8 mean ± SD) and control (n = 20; female = 13, male = 7; age = 12.85 ± 1.81 mean ± SD) groups. The experimental group received spinal mobilisation for 30 min per session followed by 60 min of core stabilisation exercises (CSE), twice a week for 10 weeks. The control group received CSE only at the same frequency and duration. Evaluation of Cobb angle, ATR and pulmonary function tests (PEF: Peak Expiratory Flow, FEV1: Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s, FVC: Forced Vital Capacity, and FEV1/FVC: Tiffeneau index) were performed at baseline and after the intervention.

Results

Both groups showed significant improvements in Cobb angle, ATR, PEF and FVC, with the experimental group showing significantly greater improvements in Cobb angle (−7.65 ± 3.17) and ATR (−2.5 ± 1.43) compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, while the control group showed no change in FEV1, the experimental group showed improvement. There was no change in FEV1/FVC ratio in either group.

Conclusion

These results indicate that adding spinal mobilisation to treatment sessions can effectively reduce the magnitude of curvature and improve scoliosis‐related problems in the short term.
l‐Arginine supplementation for pregnant and lactating sows may improve the performance of piglets: A systematic review
Authors: Cruz Fábio Loures , Mendes Melissa Fabíola dos Santos Alves , Silva Thais Oliveira , Filho Marlon Barros Guimarães , de Abreu Márvio Lobão Teixeira
Published: August 2024

The objective was to conduct a systematic review to clarify the effects of l‐arginine supplementation in pregnant and lactating sows on plasma hormone levels, milk production and composition, the body condition of sows and piglet performance. In April 2023, an online search and a systematic search were performed in the following databases: Embase, Scopus, SciELO, Web of Science, PubMed and Science Direct. The combinations of keywords used were sow and arginine and lactation; sow and arginine and lactating; sow and arginine and gestation; sow and arginine and gestating; sow and arginine and pregnancy; sow and arginine and reproduction; piglet and arginine; and sow and arginine and mammary gland. In total, 21 scientific articles with original data were selected according to preestablished criteria. Among the 21 articles, seven (33%) reported measurements of some plasma hormones, and among these, six reported an increase in the levels of at least one hormone, namely, estradiol, insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1), insulin, follicle stimulating hormone, growth hormone or prolactin, with l‐arginine supplementation. The parameters of milk were evaluated in 11 studies (52%), one reported an increase in protein content, and one reported an increase in IGF‐1 content in milk with supplementation of this amino acid. Of the 14 studies that evaluated the performance parameters of piglets, only four reported improvements in some parameters of piglets from sows that received supplementation. Dietary supplementation of arginine for sows in the final third of gestation and/or lactation may alter the plasma levels of some hormones, which may reflect in greater development of the mammary gland tissue and, consequently, promote benefits on the performance of piglets. However, more studies are needed to evaluate the real impact of this amino acid supplementation on the physiology of the sows, in general, and the performance of suckling piglets.
Validation of a reference interval for symmetric dimethylarginine in healthy goats and its comparison to values in goats with obstructive urolithiasis
Authors: Camacho Blanca E. , Mitman Siena L. , Foster Derek M. , Halleran Jennifer
Published: August 2024

Background

Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), a sensitive biomarker for detecting renal injury, has not been characterized in goats. Obstructive urolithiasis (OU) is the most common urinary tract disease in male small ruminants.

Hypothesis/Objective

Establish an SDMA reference interval (RI) in healthy adult goats and describe SDMA concentrations in goats with OU. We hypothesize that the SDMA RI in healthy adult goats will be similar to that of other adult veterinary species and that SDMA can be utilized to assess the renal function of goats experiencing OU.

Animals

Fifty‐five healthy adult male and female goats from a university herd were enrolled for SDMA RI development. Twenty male and female goats from a university herd were enrolled for validation of the SDMA RI established. Thirteen male goats diagnosed with OU were enrolled.

Methods

Clinical trial. Serum samples for all animals enrolled were collected and analyzed for SDMA using an immunoassay (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc); goats with OU had additional blood work analyzed (PCV, total solids, and serum biochemistry). Symmetric dimethylarginine and other values in goats with OU were analyzed and compared at specific time points.

Results

The SDMA RI for healthy, adult goats is 8.03 μg/dL (90% CI 4.81‐11.04) to 25.93 μg/dL (90% CI 22.88‐28.97). There was no correlation identified between serum creatinine and SDMA in goats with OU.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The SDMA RI for adult goats is higher than in other adult large animal species. Use of SDMA in goats with OU is not useful in assessing their renal function.
Metabolic characteristics of patients with MetALD: Caveats of a new definition
Authors: Petrie Erin , Gray Meagan , Bril Fernando
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Recently, a new entity was introduced, MetALD, which includes patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), who consume moderate amounts of alcohol. However, little is known regarding the metabolic and clinical characteristics of these patients.

Methods

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 2017–2020 was used. Participants without valid transient elastography (TE) measurements, incomplete alcohol consumption report, or with alternative etiologies of liver steatosis were excluded.

Results

A total of 6901 patients were included in the study, of which 106 (1.5%) had MetALD. Overall, MetALD patients showed a metabolic profile that was more similar to patients with alcohol related liver disease (ALD) than MASLD. Specifically, while patients with MetALD showed values in‐between MASLD and ALD for body mass index (BMI), aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) and haemoglobin A1c, they had similar high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), blood pressure, prevalence of diabetes and insulin resistance to ALD patients. Increasing alcohol consumption was associated with lower insulin resistance and A1c and higher triglycerides, HDL‐C and blood pressure. Moreover, while AST, ALT and GGT increased with alcohol consumption, this did not translate into worse hepatic steatosis or liver fibrosis by TE.

Conclusions

MetALD patients share some characteristics with MASLD, but they resemble ALD patients more, especially after adjusting for BMI. Alcohol consumption produces a dissociation between insulin resistance and some cardiometabolic risk factors (blood pressure and HDL‐C), which may make the current classification of patients challenging.
The Fatty Acid Profile of the Deep‐Sea Gastropod Parvaplustrum wareni Indicates a Dominant Role of Chemosynthesis in the Nutrition of the Hydrothermal Vent Ecosystem (Piip Volcano)
Authors: Rodkina S. A.
Published: August 2024

The gastropod Parvaplustrum wareni (Parvaplustridae) is an important faunal component in the ecosystem of deep‐sea hydrothermal vents of the Piip submarine volcano, Bering Sea. To highlight trophic relationships in this ecosystem, the fatty acid (FA) composition of the hydrothermal gastropod P. wareni has been studied. This is one of the few studies analyzing FA compositions of gastropods in a hydrothermal vent ecosystem. The major polyunsaturated FAs of this mollusk are represented by n‐3 and n‐6 FAs: arachidonic acid (20:4n‐6), eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n‐3), docosatetraenoic acid (22:4n‐6), and docosapentaenoic acid (22:5n‐3). The low level of FA markers of phytoplankton suggests an insignificant role of organic matter created by photosynthesis in the nutrition of P. wareni. A high level of monounsaturated FAs (more than 70% of total FAs) dominated by palmitoleic (16:1n‐7) and cis‐vaccenic (18:1n‐7) FAs indicates the bacterial nutrition of the mollusk. In general, the analysis of the P. wareni FA composition has allowed a conclusion that the organic matter created by chemosynthesis provides a favorable basis for the P. wareni population to thrive in the hydrothermal vents of the Piip volcano.