bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimal residual disease monitoring in acute myeloid leukemia: Focus on MFC‐MRD and treatment guidance for elderly patients
Authors: Sun Yue , Zhu Gelan , Zhong Hua
Published: February 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is distinguished by clonal growth of myeloid precursor cells, which impairs normal hematopoiesis. Minimal residual disease (MRD) refers to the residual leukemia cells that persist after chemotherapy. Patients who test positive for MRD have a higher likelihood of experiencing a recurrence, regardless of the specific chemotherapy approach used. Multi‐parameter flow cytometry (MFC), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) are commonly employed techniques for identifying MRD. In the context of AML, patients are frequently monitored for measurable residual disease via multi‐parameter flow cytometry (MFC‐MRD). In order to explore recent advancements in AML and MRD diagnosis, an extensive search of the PubMed database was conducted, focusing on relevant research in the past 20 years. This review aims to examine various MRD monitoring methods, the optimal time points for assessment, as well as different specimen types used. Additionally, it underscores the significance of MFC‐MRD assessment in guiding the treatment of elderly AML.
A Workflow for Minimizing Errors in Template‐Based Automated Item‐Generation Development
Authors: Fu Yanyan
Published: February 2024

The template‐based automated item‐generation (TAIG) approach that involves template creation, item generation, item selection, field‐testing, and evaluation has more steps than the traditional item development method. Consequentially, there is more margin for error in this process, and any template errors can be cascaded to the generated items. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate the source of errors and ensure the quality of the template so items can be problem‐free. The article introduces a process to reduce template errors at the early stage of template development, minimize the impact of template errors on generated items, and increase the survival rates of generated items. The article also discusses a statistical method to establish confidence in the quality of the template by systematically examining the quality of the generated items. The proposed method can reduce the review process for some items generated from a template.
Current state of the epilepsy drug and device pipeline
Authors: Terman Samuel W. , Kirkpatrick Laura , Akiyama Lisa F. , Baajour Wadih , Atilgan Deniz , Dorotan Maria Kristina C. , Choi Hyoung Won , French Jacqueline A.
Published: February 2024

The field of epilepsy has undergone substantial advances as we develop novel drugs and devices. Yet considerable challenges remain in developing broadly effective, well‐tolerated treatments, but also precision treatments for rare epilepsies and seizure‐monitoring devices. We summarize major recent and ongoing innovations in diagnostic and therapeutic products presented at the seventeenth Epilepsy Therapies & Diagnostics Development (ETDD) conference, which occurred May 31 to June 2, 2023, in Aventura, Florida. Therapeutics under development are targeting genetics, ion channels and other neurotransmitters, and many other potentially first‐in‐class interventions such as stem cells, glycogen metabolism, cholesterol, the gut microbiome, and novel modalities for delivering electrical neuromodulation.
Increased belowground tree carbon allocation in a mature mixed forest in a dry versus a wet year
Authors: Rog Ido , Hilman Boaz , Fox Hagar , Yalin David , Qubaja Rafat , Klein Tamir
Published: February 2024

Tree species differ in their carbon (C) allocation strategies during environmental change. Disentangling species‐specific strategies and contribution to the C balance of mixed forests requires observations at the individual tree level. We measured a complete set of C pools and fluxes at the tree level in five tree species, conifers and broadleaves, co‐existing in a mature evergreen mixed Mediterranean forest. Our study period included a drought year followed by an above‐average wet year, offering an opportunity to test the effect of water availability on tree C allocation. We found that in comparison to the wet year, C uptake was lower in the dry year, C use was the same, and allocation to belowground sinks was higher. Among the five major C sinks, respiration was the largest (ca. 60%), while root exudation (ca. 10%) and reproduction (ca. 2%) were those that increased the most in the dry year. Most trees relied on stored starch for maintaining a stable soluble sugars balance, but no significant differences were detected in aboveground storage between dry and wet years. The detailed tree‐level analysis of nonstructural carbohydrates and δ13C dynamics suggest interspecific differences in C allocation among fluxes and tissues, specifically in response to the varying water availability. Overall, our findings shed light on mixed forest physiological responses to drought, an increasing phenomenon under the ongoing climate change.
Recent work on indenture in the British World
Authors: Auerbach Sascha
Published: February 2024

This article provides an overview of the historiography of indentured labor in the 18th and 19th centuries, along with a brief narrative of the origin and definition of indenture. It traces the evolution of the history of indenture in the “British World” (defined here as the areas under both formal and informal British imperial control) from a neglected field to a major focus of historical study. The final section summarizes the current state of the field, assessing how it has moved beyond its earlier focus on social history, demographics, and diaspora studies to become an entry point for wider discussions about the history of imperialism and colonialism, the global history of capitalism, and the history of networks and exchanges between the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean Worlds.
Masstige marketing in 2023 and beyond: An introduction to the special issue on masstige marketing
Authors: Unnithan Anandakuttan B. , Laroche Michel , Kumar Ajay
Published: February 2024

The recent interest of marketers in adopting masstige strategy is a testimony to its potential. But, the dialogue on masstige among research community is not befitting its requirement. This special issue was launched to address this pressing demand towards masstige research. This special issue serves the masstige theory with eight rigorous research papers covering utmost relevant varied aspects of masstige. Papers in this special issue establish the relevance of masstige strategy for hitherto less explored aspects like services, old‐age consumers, short‐ and long‐term happiness, and so forth. Novel insights are offered along with future research propositions for masstige research. Our aim of this special issue is well addressed by generating and advancing interest of scholars towards masstige and thereby extending the current horizons of masstige research.
Economic policy uncertainty, ownership structure, and R&D investment: Evidence from Japan
Authors: Chen Po‐Lin
Published: February 2024

Using listed Japanese firms, we examine changes in R&D investment decisions during periods of high economic policy uncertainty and politics uncertainty (EPU). We find that under high EPU, firms are more persistent in their previous R&D investment and reduce their responsiveness to sales growth, while the mechanism of EPU occurs mainly through fiscal policy. We also identify heterogeneities in ownership structure and find that high director ownership encourages R&D in firms with greater growth opportunities despite higher EPU. Moreover, Japanese directors suffer from the “quiet life problem,” which further reduces their incentive to change R&D investment during periods of EPU.
Gross morphology of the brain and some sense organs of subterranean pencil catfishes of the genus ItuglanisCosta and Bockmann, 1993 (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae), with a discussion on sensory compensation versus preadaptation in subterranean fishes
Authors: Rizzato Pedro P. , Bichuette Maria Elina
Published: February 2024

Subterranean organisms provide excellent opportunities to investigate morphological evolution, especially of sensory organs and structures and their processing areas in the central nervous system. We describe the gross morphology of the brain and some cephalic sensory organs (olfactory organ, eye, semicircular canals of the inner ear) and the swim bladder (a non‐sensory accessory structure) of subterranean species of pencil catfishes of the genus Ituglanis Costa and Bockmann, 1993 (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae) and compare them with an epigean species of the genus, Ituglanis goya Datovo, Aquino and Langeani, 2016. We compared qualitatively the size of the different brain regions and sense organs of the subterranean species with those of the epigean one, searching for modifications possibly associated with living in the subterranean environment. Our findings suggest that species of Ituglanis exhibit sensory characteristics that are preadaptive for the subterranean life, as only slight modifications were observed in the brains and sense organs of the subterranean species of the genus when compared with the epigean one. Because most subterranean fish species belong to lineages putatively preadapted for subterranean life, our results, discussed in the context of available information on the brain and sense organs of other subterranean species, help identify general trends for the evolution of the brain and sensory organs of subterranean fishes in general.
Effect of inoculation (pre‐ vs. post‐grinding) of black pepper on decimal reduction time of Salmonella spp. and Enterococcus faeciumNRRL B‐2354
Authors: Wason Surabhi , Fuerte Yhuliana Kattalina Nino , Rojas Rossana Villa , Subbiah Jeyamkondan
Published: February 2024

The laboratory inoculation techniques should ideally mimic the real‐life environment to reliably estimate the decimal reduction time (D‐value) of bacteria for process validation. This study aims at investigating the influence of the inoculation method on the D‐value of Salmonella in black pepper powder. Whole black peppercorns were either inoculated prior to grinding (pre‐grinding procedure) or ground and then inoculated (post‐grinding procedure). The ground black pepper was thermaly treated at 80°C for 0‐30 min. The D80°C values of Salmonella inoculated by pre‐grinding and post‐grinding procedures were 5.5 ± 0.8 and 3.9± 0.3, respectively. Salmonella and E. faecium were significantly (p⟨0.05) more thermally resistant in ground black pepper when inoculated pre‐ rather than post‐grinding. Therefore, inoculation protocol must be considered by spice industries while validating the pasteurization process. E. faecium is a suitable surrogate for Salmonella because of its higher decimal reduction time for both inoculation methods.
A breast milk production model for achieving exclusive breastfeeding in low‐risk primiparas who had vaginal births at 4 months postpartum: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Takahata Kaori , Horiuchi Shigeko , Miyauchi Ai , Tadokoro Yuriko , Shuo Takuya
Published: February 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the thresholds of milk production for predicting the achievement of exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) at 4 months postpartum.

Methods

The inclusion criteria were singleton, low‐risk primiparas, non‐cesarean section, and healthy mothers and infants. Temporary feeding of artificial milk in the past was included. Women who could be judged to have intentionally used artificial milk were excluded from the analysis. Measurements of the 24‐h milk production by test weights were obtained at early postpartum (days 3–4) and at 1 month postpartum. To predict the achievement of EBF at 4 months postpartum, the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was calculated for early postpartum and 1 month milk production.

Results

There were 80 eligible participants analyzed. ROC analysis of milk production for achieving EBF at 4 months revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.736 (95% CI: [0.625, 0.848]) for early postpartum and an AUC of 0.854 (95% CI: [0.772, 0.936]) for 1 month postpartum. The proposed thresholds are 102 g/day (higher sensitivity) and 161 g/day (higher specificity) at early postpartum, and 527 g/day (higher sensitivity) at 1 month postpartum.

Conclusions

In low‐risk primiparas, the milk production models at early postpartum and 1 month postpartum showed a high accuracy for predicting the achievement of EBF at 4 months postpartum. The present study indicates that even when formula milk is temporarily used, it is still possible to reach the goal of achieving EBF.
The Effects of Regulatory Office Closures on Bank Behavior
Authors: LIM IVAN , HAGENDORFF JENS , ARMITAGE SETH
Published: February 2024

We investigate if the decentralized structure of regulatory office networks influences supervisory outcomes and bank behavior. Following the closure of an office, banks previously supervised by that office increase their lending and risk‐taking. As a result, affected banks have larger loan losses and higher failure rates during the 2008–09 financial crisis. Analysis of the channels suggests that proximate supervisors enforce timelier provisioning practices, restrict large cash payouts, and provide advice that increases a bank's risk‐adjusted returns. Overall, our findings imply that geographical proximity reduces informational frictions in supervisory monitoring and leads to more stable banks.
Ferroptosis mediated by TNFSF9 interferes in acute ischaemic stroke reperfusion injury with the progression of acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Li Zifu , Gao Tianxiang , Wang Jing , Zhang Xiaoxi , Zhang Yongxin , Zhang Lei , Yang Pengfei , Liu Jianmin
Published: February 2024

In this study, we investigated the potential involvement of TNFSF9 in reperfusion injury associated with ferroptosis in acute ischaemic stroke patients, mouse models and BV2 microglia. We first examined TNFSF9 changes in peripheral blood from stroke patients with successful reperfusion, and constructed oxygen–glucose deprivation–reperfusion (OGD‐R) on BV2 microglia, oxygen–glucose deprivation for 6 h followed by reoxygenation and re‐glucose for 24 h, and appropriate over‐expression or knockdown of TNFSF9 manipulation on BV2 cells and found that in the case of BV2 cells encountering OGD‐R over‐expression of TNFSF9 resulted in increased BV2 apoptosis. Still, the knockdown of TNFSF9 ameliorated apoptosis and ferroptosis. In an in vivo experiment, we constructed TNFSF9 over‐expression or knockout mice by intracerebral injection of TNFSF9‐OE or sh‐TNFSF9 adenovirus. We performed the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model on day four, 24 h after ligation of the proximal artery, for half an hour to recanalize. As luck would have it, over‐expression of TNFSF9 resulted in increased brain infarct volumes, neurological function scores and abnormalities in TNFSF9‐related TRAF1 and ferroptosis‐related pathways, but knockdown of TNFSF9 improved brain infarcts in mice as well as reversing TNFSF9‐related signalling pathways. In conclusion, our data provide the first evidence that TNFSF9 triggers microglia activation by activating the ferroptosis signalling pathway following ischaemic stroke, leading to brain injury and neurological deficits.

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Androgen receptor actions on AgRP neurons are not a major cause of reproductive and metabolic impairments in peripubertally androgenized mice
Authors: Kerbus Romy I. , Decourt Caroline , Inglis Megan A. , Campbell Rebecca E. , Anderson Greg M.
Published: February 2024

Excess levels of circulating androgens during prenatal or peripubertal development are an important cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with the brain being a key target. Approximately half of the women diagnosed with PCOS also experience metabolic syndrome; common features including obesity, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia. Although a large amount of clinical and preclinical evidence has confirmed this relationship between androgens and the reproductive and metabolic features of PCOS, the mechanisms by which androgens cause this dysregulation are unknown. Neuron‐specific androgen receptor knockout alleviates some PCOS‐like features in a peripubertal dihydrotestosterone (DHT) mouse model, but the specific neuronal populations mediating these effects are undefined. A candidate population is the agouti‐related peptide (AgRP)‐expressing neurons, which are important for both reproductive and metabolic function. We used a well‐characterised peripubertal androgenized mouse model and Cre‐loxP transgenics to investigate whether deleting androgen receptors specifically from AgRP neurons can alleviate the induced reproductive and metabolic dysregulation. Androgen receptors were co‐expressed in 66% of AgRP neurons in control mice, but only in <2% of AgRP neurons in knockout mice. The number of AgRP neurons was not altered by the treatments. Only 20% of androgen receptor knockout mice showed rescue of DHT‐induced androgen‐induced anovulation and acyclicity. Furthermore, androgen receptor knockout did not rescue metabolic dysfunction (body weight, adiposity or glucose and insulin tolerance). While we cannot rule out developmental compensation in our model, these results suggest peripubertal androgen excess does not markedly influence Agrp expression and does not dysregulate reproductive and metabolic function through direct actions of androgens onto AgRP neurons.
Factors associated with the intrinsic capacity in older adults: A scoping review
Authors: Wei Xiaoqin , Chen Yajing , Qin Jiangxia , Yang Yiyi , Yang Tingting , Yan Fanghong , Zhang Ziyao , Han Lin , Ma Yuxia
Published: February 2024

Introduction

In 2015, the term ‘intrinsic capacity’ (IC) was proposed by the World Health Organisation to promote healthy aging. However, the factors associated with IC are still discrepant and uncertain.

Aim

We aim to synthesise the factors connected with IC.

Methods

This scoping review followed the five‐stage framework of Arksey and O'Malley and was reported using PRISMA‐ScR guidelines.

Results

In all, 29 articles were included. IC of older adults is associated with demographic characteristics, socioeconomic factors, disease conditions, behavioural factors, and biomarkers. Age, sex, marital status, occupation status, education, income/wealth, chronic diseases, hypertension, diabetes, disability, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and physical activity were emerged as important factors related to the IC of older adults.

Conclusions

This review shows that IC is related to multiple factors. Understanding these factors can provide the healthcare personnel with the theoretical basis for intervening and managing IC in older adults.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The influencing factors identified in the review help to guide older adults to maintain their own intrinsic capacity, thereby promoting their health and well‐being. The modifiable factors also provide evidence for healthcare personnel to develop targeted intervention strategies to delay IC decline.

No Patient or Public Contribution

As this is a scoping review, no patient or public contributions are required.
Barriers and facilitators in implementing early essential newborn care of well‐born babies in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A mixed‐method systematic review
Authors: He Hongxiao , Li Junying , Li Zhao , Lu Hong , Lu Jie , Quan Yan , Zhu Xiu
Published: February 2024

Background

Evidences have demonstrated the effectiveness of early essential newborn care. However, the implementation of early essential newborn care is suboptimal. The aim is to identify and synthesise the barriers and facilitators impacting the implementation of early essential newborn care in low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, CINAHL, CNKI, Wan Fang Data, SinoMed and Google Scholar.

Methods

Two authors independently screened, performed quality assessment using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and extracted data. This review includes papers that reported the barriers and facilitators of implementing early essential newborn care in low‐ and middle‐income countries from the view of healthcare providers. Barriers and facilitators were coded according to the consolidated framework for implementation research in a deductive way and then been inducted into five common themes. This review followed synthesis without meta‐analysis reporting guideline.

Results

A total of 28 studies were included. Five inductive common themes influencing implementing early essential newborn care in low‐ and middle‐income countries were system‐level healthcare factors, healthcare providers’ knowledge and beliefs, the requirements of mothers or families, adapting to routine practice and the working climate of organisation.

Conclusion

The factors were from system level, facility level and individual level and were inducted into five themes. Based on this review, decision‐makers could tailor implementing strategies to narrow the gap between the evidence and implementation.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The study offers guidance for health professionals to identify barriers and facilitators in implementing early essential newborn care and make tailored strategies when implementing early essential newborn care.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contributions.
To the Barricades! The Social Revolution of 1936 in Catalonia
Authors: Tena‐Sánchez Jordi
Published: February 2024

This paper aims to illustrate how several emotional mechanisms very probably played some causal and presumably significant role during the revolution that took place in Catalonia between July 1936 and May 1937 within the framework of the Spanish Civil War. Beyond this specific case study, the article contributes to the discussion on the role of emotions in large‐scale collective action and the concept of enthusiasm. In this regard, it is argued that the analyzed case suggests hatred could be an emotional antecedent of enthusiasm.
Development of new frozen food products: The effects of product attributes and marketing factors on sales of frozen cooked rice and dumplings
Authors: Kim Nayeong , Joo Hailey Hayeon , Kim Brian Hong Sok , Moon Junghoon
Published: February 2024

For successful new product development, it is crucial to devise product attributes and marketing strategies appropriate for the expected consumption contexts. However, the impacts of product attributes and marketing factors on sales across the various consumption contexts are scarcely examined. Thus, this study aims to compare the product attributes and marketing factors affecting the sales of new frozen cooked rice (meal) and frozen dumpling (snack) products, which have different consumption contexts. This study used Nielsen point‐of‐sale data on new frozen cooked rice and dumpling products in Korea for weeks 1–48 in 2020. The results reveal distinct key factors influencing sales for each product category. The key factors driving the sales of frozen cooked rice are formulation, recipe type, package type, weight diversity, and distribution channel diversity. The key factors driving the sales of frozen dumplings are the main ingredient, dumpling shape, sauce flavor, claim, weight diversity, bundling promotion, and distribution channel diversity. These findings contribute to new product development by increasing the understanding of product attributes and marketing factors in different consumption contexts.

Practical Applications

This manuscript contributes to the field of food consumer studies by comparing the impact of product attributes and marketing factors on frozen food sales in different consumption contexts, such as meals and snacks. The information obtained from this study provides useful insights for researchers in the sensory and gastronomic fields, as well as for food experts and practitioners. The results of this study can be of interest to the gastronomy sector, as we highlighted sensory factors such as main ingredients, sauce flavors, recipe types, and formulations as product attributes that influence consumers' food purchases. These findings can aid researchers and new product developers in the food industry in developing innovative foods that can potentially be incorporated into the sensory experience.
Safety and immunogenicity of an adjuvanted recombinant spike protein‐based severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccine, SpikeVet™, in selected Carnivora, Primates and Artiodactyla in Australian zoos
Authors: McLelland David J. , Lynch Michael , Vogelnest Larry , Eden Paul , Wallace Alisa , Weller Jayne , Young Sam , Vaughan‐Higgins Rebecca , Antipov Anna , Honda‐Okubo Yoshikazu , Petrovsky Nikolai
Published: February 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) can infect a broad range of animal species and has been associated with severe disease in some taxa. Few studies have evaluated optimal strategies to mitigate the risk to susceptible zoo animals. This study evaluated the safety and immunogenicity of a protein‐based veterinary SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine (SpikeVet™) in zoo animals. Two to three doses of SpikeVet™ were administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously 3–4 weeks apart to 354 zoo animals representing 38 species. SpikeVet™ was very well tolerated across all species. Minor adverse effects were observed in 1.69% of animals vaccinated, or 1.04% of vaccine doses administered. Preliminary immunogenicity analyses in representative carnivores (meerkats, lions) and an artiodactylid (domestic goat) showed SpikeVet™‐immunized animals developed serum antibodies able to neutralize a range of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, including the vaccine‐homologous Wuhan and Mu variants, as well as vaccine‐heterologous Omicron BA.2 and XBB.1 strains. Prior to vaccination, all eight lions were seropositive for Wuhan strain by surrogate viral neutralization testing, suggesting past infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 or cross‐reactive antibodies generated by another closely related coronavirus. These results from a range of zoo species support the ongoing development of SpikeVet™ as a safe and effective veterinary SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine.
The impact of parental and developmental stress on DNA methylation in the avian hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis
Authors: Siller Wilks Stefanie J. , Heidinger Britt J. , Westneat David F. , Solomon Joseph , Rubenstein Dustin R.
Published: February 2024

The hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis coordinates an organism's response to environmental stress. The responsiveness and sensitivity of an offspring's stress response may be shaped not only by stressors encountered in their early post‐natal environment but also by stressors in their parent's environment. Yet, few studies have considered how stressors encountered in both of these early life environments may function together to impact the developing HPA axis. Here, we manipulated stressors in the parental and post‐natal environments in a population of house sparrows (Passer domesticus) to assess their impact on changes in DNA methylation (and corresponding gene expression) in a suite of genes within the HPA axis. We found that nestlings that experienced early life stress across both life‐history periods had higher DNA methylation in a critical HPA axis gene, the glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1). In addition, we found that the life‐history stage when stress was encountered impacted some genes (HSD11B1, NR3C1 and NR3C2) differently. We also found evidence for the mitigation of parental stress by post‐natal stress (in HSD11B1 and NR3C2). Finally, by assessing DNA methylation in both the brain and blood, we were able to evaluate cross‐tissue patterns. While some differentially methylated regions were tissue‐specific, we found cross‐tissue changes in NR3C2 and NR3C1, suggesting that blood is a suitable tissue for assessing DNA methylation as a biomarker of early life stress. Our results provide a crucial first step in understanding the mechanisms by which early life stress in different life‐history periods contributes to changes in the epigenome of the HPA axis.
Sustainable diets and risk of overweight and obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Reger Christoph , Leitzmann Michael F. , Rohrmann Sabine , Kühn Tilman , Sedlmeier Anja M. , Jochem Carmen
Published: February 2024

Sustainable diets are gaining interest as a possible approach to tackle climate change and the global extent of obesity. Yet, the association between sustainable diets and adiposity remains unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis, calculating summary relative risks and 95% confidence intervals (CI). We pooled maximally adjusted risk estimates, assessed heterogeneity and publication bias, calculated the E‐value, and evaluated the risk of bias across the included studies. A total of eight studies were eligible for analysis. Comparing the highest versus the lowest levels of adherence to sustainable diets, the pooled effect estimate was 0.69 (95% CI = 0.62–0.76) for overweight and 0.61 (95% CI = 0.47–0.78) for obesity. These results suggest that sustainable diets may decrease the risk of overweight/obesity and therefore could serve as enablers for improving both public and planetary health. An agreed‐upon clear definition of sustainable diets would enhance the comparability of future studies in this area.
Public and dental teams' views about weight management interventions in dental health settings: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Large Jessica F. , Madigan Claire , Graham Henrietta , Biddle Gregory J. H. , Sanders James , Daley Amanda J.
Published: February 2024

Collaborative approaches across healthcare to address obesity are needed but intervention in dental settings is not widely implemented. Here we systematically synthesized the views of both the public and dental teams about delivering weight management interventions in dental settings and identified potential barriers to implementation. A systematic review of five databases from inception to April 3, 2023 was completed. Proportional meta‐analyses were performed with quantitative data and thematic analysis of qualitative data. A total of 7851 studies were screened and 33 included in the review. The prevalence of height and weight screening in dental settings varied (4%–87%) with an average of 29% undertaking screening (p = <0.01; 95% CI: 14%–46%). A significant proportion of the public were supportive of weight screening in dental settings (83%; p = <0.01; 95% CI:76%–88%). Significant barriers to providing weight screening and/or intervention included fear of offending patients (57%; 95% CI: 45%–68%) and a lack of time (48%; 95% CI: 30%–66%). Qualitative data revealed further barriers including stigmatizing views of dental teams toward people living with overweight/obesity. Enablers of weight discussion included associating weight with oral health. Overall, whilst some barriers were identified, there is potential for weight management interventions to be used more routinely in dental settings.
Cross‐cultural adaptation of the Thai Xerostomia Inventory and Summated Xerostomia Inventory
Authors: Lapnimitanun Chotima , Wiriyakijja Paswach , Matangkasombut Oranart , Komin Orapin
Published: February 2024

Objective

To cross‐culturally adapt and validate the Thai version of the Xerostomia Inventory (XI) and Summated Xerostomia Inventory (SXI) for subjective evaluation of oral dryness in Thai middle‐aged and older adults.

Methods

The original English versions of the XI and SXI were cross‐culturally translated into Thai. Content validity was examined by the expert panel and 30 pilot subjects. The XI/SXI‐Thai were then administered to 200 Thai adults (aged 50 years or older) for further assessment of psychometric properties. The standard question, the Bother Index, and the Xerostomia Questionnaire were used as comparator instruments for the evaluation of criterion and construct validity, respectively. Internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha.

Results

The final XI/SXI‐Thai were found to have good content validity. Both scales were able to distinguish between xerostomia and non‐xerostomia groups. We observed moderate to strong correlation between the XI/SXI‐Thai and other comparator instruments, reflecting good criterion and construct validity. Cronbach's alpha values were 0.875 and 0.847 for the XI‐Thai and SXI‐Thai, respectively.

Conclusions

The XI‐Thai and SXI‐Thai were found to be valid, reliable, and easily administrable instruments for xerostomia assessment in Thai middle‐aged and older individuals in both clinical and research settings.
Management of tinea capitis in infants and children in the United States: A national survey of pediatric dermatologists
Authors: Guo Lily , Tran Jacqueline , Sun Dingyuan Iris , Newton Jazmin Starr , D'Amiano Nina M. , Lai Jonathan , Cohen Bernard
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the current management of tinea capitis in the United States, specifically focusing on patients aged 0–2 months, 2 months to 2 years, and 2 years to 18 years. An online survey, distributed through the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance and the Society of Pediatric Dermatology, revealed the following preferences: fluconazole for those under 2 months, griseofulvin for those aged 2 months to 2 years, and terbinafine for those aged 2 years and older. There exists inter‐provider variation in tinea capitis treatment regimens within the pediatric dermatology community.
The sternoclavicular ganglion cyst, a rare pediatric diagnosis
Authors: Saliba Thomas , Fokou Gervais Kogni , Simoni Paolo
Published: February 2024

We briefly describe the case of a 4‐year‐old girl, referred for imaging of a small, firm, round, skin‐colored, subcutaneous nodule that suddenly appeared at her right sternoclavicular junction. A plain radiograph was non‐contributory, but ultrasonography revealed a small cystic structure, leading to the diagnosis of a sternoclavicular ganglion cyst. Sternoclavicular ganglion cysts are a rare diagnosis, with only seven reported pediatric cases. A watchful waiting approach can be adopted so long as they remain asymptomatic.
Drought priming reduces Calligonum mongolicum sensitivity to recurrent droughts via coordinated regulation of osmolytes, antioxidants, and hormones
Authors: Ullah A. , Tariq A. , Zeng F. , Asghar M. A. , Sardans J. , Peñuelas J.
Published: February 2024

Pre‐exposure of plants to abiotic stressors may induce stress memory and improve tolerance to subsequent stresses.

Here, 3‐month‐old Calligonum mongolicum seedlings were exposed to drought (60 days) with (primed) or without (unprimed) early drought exposure of 50 days, to determine whether this enhances seedling resistance and investigate possible underlying mechanisms.

Compared to unprimed, primed seedlings had higher biomass, shoot relative water content (15% and 22%), chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids. They also had more superoxide anions (O2−•) and H2O2 scavenging mechanisms through higher activity of SOD, CAT, APX, and dehydroascorbate reductase in assimilating shoots and roots, resulting in less ROS and oxidative stress damage. Plants also had higher ABA and JA but lower SA, likely reflecting an adaptive response to subsequent stress. Primed seedlings accumulated more IAA and brassinosteroids, which may account for their better growth. Accumulation of glycine betaine, pro, and total amino acids in assimilating shoots and roots of primed seedlings led to reduced osmotic stress. Drivers of responses of non‐primed and primed seedlings to drought varied. Responses of primed seedlings were primarily characterized by more photosynthetic pigments, increased oxidative scavenging of O2−• and H2O2, more phytohormones and osmolytes.

Early drought priming of drought stress memory in C. mongolicum seedlings may provide a useful management approach to improve seedling establishment in vegetation restoration programs.
Effect of enhanced informed consent on veteran hesitancy to disclose suicidal ideation and related risk factors
Authors: Tucker Brock C. , Gonzalez Vivian M.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The concealment of suicidal ideation (SI) constitutes a significant barrier to reducing veteran deaths by suicide and is associated with fear of negative consequences (e.g., involuntary hospitalization). This study examined whether augmenting informed consent with psychoeducation aimed to help patients achieve a more realistic risk appraisal of consequences associated with disclosure of SI, decreased hesitancy to disclose SI, and related risk behaviors among U.S. veterans.

Method

Participants (N = 133) were recruited from combat veteran social media groups and were randomly assigned to a video simulated treatment‐as‐usual informed consent (control) or to one of two psychoeducation‐enhanced informed consent conditions (psychoed, psychoed + trust).

Results

Compared with the control group, participants in both psychoeducation and enhanced informed consent conditions reported lower hesitancy to disclose SI, firearm access, and problems with drugs/thoughts of harming others, as well as greater trust and respect for the simulated clinician.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that brief psychoeducation regarding common factors that affect hesitancy to disclose SI may be beneficial for increasing trust in providers during the informed consent process and decreasing concealment of SI and firearm access among veterans.
Examining aspects of psychological flexibility within the integrated motivational‐volitional model of suicidal behavior: A prospective investigation
Authors: Moscardini Emma H. , Breaux Eathan A. , Oakey‐Frost D. Nicolas , Tucker Raymond P.
Published: February 2024

Background

According to the integrated motivational‐volitional model of suicide, feelings of entrapment are related to the emergence of suicidal ideation (SI). However, this relation can be moderated by certain protective factors.

Methods

This study examined whether aspects of psychological flexibility (i.e., experiential avoidance, experiential acceptance, harnessing) moderated the relation between aspects of entrapment and SI severity in college students experiencing SI (N = 553) both cross‐sectionally and when SI severity was measured 1 week later (N = 247).

Results

At baseline, experiential acceptance, but not experiential avoidance or harnessing, significantly moderated the relation between external entrapment and SI severity and internal entrapment and SI severity. No aspects of psychological flexibility prospectively moderated relations between entrapment and SI severity.

Conclusions

Aspects of psychological flexibility may influence immediate vulnerability to SI severity among young adults experiencing feelings of entrapment. Implications for clinical interventions influencing changes in psychological flexibility are discussed.
I'm not ‘fake rural’: Rural student negotiation of identity and place in medical school
Authors: Shepherd Nicole , Wilson Gray Romy , Hu Wendy , Hyde Sarah , Partanen Riitta , Pena Alexia , Walters Lucie , Olson Rebecca
Published: February 2024

This article addresses the accessibility of medical education for rural students, focusing on the intersection of rurality and socioeconomic privilege. We present findings from a study of rural background medical students from four Australian medical schools, which explored their experiences of admissions processes and their ongoing socialisation. Participants characterised admissions pathways as complex, requiring social capital to navigate. Though most participants expressed pride in their rural identity and spoke favourably of rural lifestyles, they readily shared their frustrations about the restricted opportunities available to rural students. Analysing their accounts through an intersectional lens illustrates the way the stigma and disadvantage of a rural geographic background are exacerbated by intersecting oppressions and mitigated by certain privileges. For some students, an authentic rural identity arose from intersections of class and locality; they referred to others who had come from a more privileged background with a weaker connection to a rural community as ‘fake rural’. These findings offer valuable insights to research on medical education and rural sociologies, as they can contribute to the creation of more effective and informed widening participation measures.
HLA‐DPA1*02:01:25, a novel allele with a synonymous transition in exon 2 identified by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Niño Ramírez Jairo Eduardo , Gil‐Etayo Francisco Javier , Terradillos Sánchez Pilar , Arroyo‐Sánchez Daniel , Tejeda Velarde Amalia
Published: February 2024

HLA‐DPA1*02:01:25 differs from DPA1*02:01:01:02 by a synonymous transition in exon 2.
Identification of the novel HLA‐DQB1*03:512 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Bouthemy Charlène , Cargou Marine , Milhes Jean , Congy‐Jolivet Nicolas
Published: February 2024

HLA‐DQB1*03:512 differs from DQB1*03:02:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 89 in exon 2.
Interlocus gene conversion: Identification of HLA‐A*23:128 in a Brazilian bone marrow donor
Authors: de Oliveira Cintia Keilla Fabreti , Nascimento Evaldo , da Silva Assis Aline , Fabreti‐Oliveira Raquel Aparecida
Published: February 2024

Identification of novel HLA‐A*23:128 allele generated by interlocus gene conversion in Brazilian bone marrow donor.
Acting and pretending
Authors: Guo Yuchen
Published: February 2024

What is the nature of the kind of behaviour English speakers call “acting”? A popular strategy is to say that acting is a kind of pretence, and onstage actors pretend to do and say what the character does and says. This paper aims to reject this “pretence theory of acting”. To do so, first, I introduce several counterexamples showing that actors do not engage in pretending but still enact their characters; second, I argue that the reasons in favour of the pretence theory of acting are not persuasive; finally, I argue that the pretence theory of acting can lead to a misunderstanding about acting.
Pneumonia in childhood bacterial meningitis–Experience from three continents
Authors: Pelkonen Tuula , Roine Irmeli , Cruzeiro Manuel Leite , Kallio Markku , Peltola Heikki
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Although concomitant pneumonia is sometimes diagnosed in childhood bacterial meningitis, its role in the illness course and prognosis is not known. We examined these associations using prospectively collected data from Finland, Latin America and Angola.

Methods

This was a secondary descriptive analysis of prospectively collected data (clinical and laboratory findings at admission, during hospitalisation and outcome) from five clinical bacterial meningitis trials. We included children aged 2 months to 15 years from sites with confirmed bacterial meningitis and potential concomitant pneumonia (diagnosed clinically with or without a chest radiograph).

Results

Pneumonia was not observed in the 341 children included in Finland. Pneumonia was observed in 8% (51/606) of children in Latin America and in 46% (377/819) in Angola (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analyses, predisposing factors for pneumonia in Latin America were age <1 year, seizures and severe anaemia; the corresponding factors for Angola were preadmission duration of illness >3 days and non‐meningococcal meningitis. Concomitant pneumonia increased the severity of the disease and disabling sequelae.

Conclusion

Bacterial meningitis with pneumonia is a major, previously undescribed entity of severe bacterial meningitis, especially in Angola.
Genome sequences and population genomics reveal climatic adaptation and genomic divergence between two closely related sweetgum species
Authors: Xu Wu‐Qin , Ren Chao‐Qian , Zhang Xin‐Yi , Comes Hans‐Peter , Liu Xin‐Hong , Li Yin‐Gang , Kettle Christopher J. , Jalonen Riina , Gaisberger Hannes , Ma Ya‐Zhen , Qiu Ying‐Xiong
Published: February 2024

Understanding the genetic basis of population divergence and adaptation is an important goal in population genetics and evolutionary biology. However, the relative roles of demographic history, gene flow, and/or selective regime in driving genomic divergence, climatic adaptation, and speciation in non‐model tree species are not yet fully understood. To address this issue, we generated whole‐genome resequencing data of Liquidambar formosana and L. acalycina, which are broadly sympatric but altitudinally segregated in the Tertiary relict forests of subtropical China. We integrated genomic and environmental data to investigate the demographic history, genomic divergence, and climatic adaptation of these two sister species. We inferred a scenario of allopatric species divergence during the late Miocene, followed by secondary contact during the Holocene. We identified multiple genomic islands of elevated divergence that mainly evolved through divergence hitchhiking and recombination rate variation, likely fostered by long‐term refugial isolation and recent differential introgression in low‐recombination genomic regions. We also found some candidate genes with divergent selection signatures potentially involved in climatic adaptation and reproductive isolation. Our results contribute to a better understanding of how late Tertiary/Quaternary climatic change influenced speciation, genomic divergence, climatic adaptation, and introgressive hybridization in East Asia's Tertiary relict flora. In addition, they should facilitate future evolutionary, conservation genomics, and molecular breeding studies in Liquidambar, a genus of important medicinal and ornamental values.
Long-Term Prediction of Large-Scale and Sporadic COVID-19 Epidemics Induced by the Original Strain in China Based on the Improved Nonautonomous Delayed Susceptible-Infected-Recovered-Dead and Susceptible-Infected-Removed Models
Authors: Xie Xin , Pei Lijun
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 virus emerged abruptly in early 2020 and disseminated swiftly, resulting in a substantial impact on public health. This paper aims to forecast the evolution of large-scale and sporadic COVID-19 outbreaks, stemming from the original strain, within the context of stringent quarantine measures in China. In order to accomplish our objective, we introduce a time-delay factor into the conventional susceptible-infected-removed/susceptible-infected-recovered-dead (SIR/SIRD) model. In the nonautonomous delayed SIRD model, the finite difference method is employed to determine that the transmission rate in a large-scale epidemic area exhibits an approximately exponential decay, the cure rate demonstrates a linear increase, and the death rate is approximately piecewise constant with a downward trend. We employ an improved delayed SIR model for sporadic epidemic regions characterized by extremely low or nearly zero mortality rates. In these regions, the transmission rate is estimated through a two-stage exponential decay function with variable coefficients, while the rate of removal aligns with the recovery rate in the previously mentioned SIRD model. The results of this study demonstrate a high level of concordance with the actual evolution of COVID-19, and the predictive precision can be consistently maintained within a margin of 3%. From the perspective of our model parameters, it is observed that under strict isolation policies, the transmission rate of COVID-19 in China is relatively low and has been significantly reduced. This suggests that government intervention has had a positive effect on epidemic prevention in the country. Moreover, our model has been successfully utilized to forecast the outbreaks caused by the SARS virus in 2003 and the COVID-19 outbreak induced by the Omicron virus in 2022, showcasing its broad applicability and efficacy. This study enables the prompt implementation of measures and allocation of medical resources in different regions, ultimately contributing to the mitigation of economic and social losses.