bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deficiencies in reporting inclusion/exclusion criteria and characteristics of patients in randomized controlled trials of therapeutic interventions in pressure injuries: a systematic methodological review
Authors: Miranda Jéssica Steffany , Abbade Luciana P. F. , Abbade Joelcio Francisco , Thabane Lehana , Mbuagbaw Lawrence , Pascon Gisele Chicone , Campanili Ticiane Carolina Gonçalves Faustino , Santos Larissa Paula , de Gouveia Santos Vera Lúcia Conceição
Published: October 2023

Wound care is a complex procedure and the related research may include many variables. Deficiencies in the sample inclusion and exclusion criteria may limit the generalizability of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for wound patients in the real world. This study aimed to evaluate deficiencies in reporting the inclusion and exclusion criteria and the characteristics of patients in RCTs of pressure injuries (PI) therapeutic interventions. We conducted a systematic methodological review in which 40 full text RCTs of PI treatment interventions published in English, from 2008 to 2020, were identified. Data on the general characteristics of the included RCTs and data about inclusion/exclusion criteria and characteristics of patients were collected. The inclusion/exclusion criteria were categorized into five domains (definition of disease, precision, safety, ethical/legal and administrative). Study duration (in weeks) was 8.0 (quartile 1: 2.0; quartile 3: 48.0); only 5.0% of the trials mentioned race, skin colour or ethnicity, and 37.5% reported the duration of the wound. Only 9 (22.5%) studies reported the drugs that the included patients were using and 10 (25.0%) RCTs reported adverse events. The presence of the five domains was observed only in 12.5% of RCTs and only 12 (30.0%) had the precision domain. Much more research is required in systematic assessments of the external validity of trials because there is substantial disparity between the information that is provided by RCTs and the information that is required by clinicians. We concluded that there are deficiencies in reporting of data related to inclusion/exclusion criteria and characteristics of patients of RCTs assessing PI therapeutic interventions.
The origin of microstructural inhomogeneity in vacuum‐sintered ZrO2‐doped Lu2O3 transparent ceramics
Authors: Ren Yi , Li Xiaodong , Mu Haojie , Zhu Qi , Zhang Mu , Sun Xudong
Published: October 2023

Highly transparent Lu2O3 ceramics were prepared by using co‐precipitation combined with vacuum sintering method with ZrO2 as sintering aid. The effect of ZrO2 on densification, transmittance, and microstructure evolution of the Lu2O3 ceramics was carefully studied. It was found that the addition of ZrO2 was very effective in improving densification of Lu2O3. The highest transmittance (at 600 nm) of the 3 at.% ZrO2 doped Lu2O3 ceramic (1.6‐mm thickness) sintered at 1800°C reached 80.1%. Microstructural inhomogeneity was found after vacuum sintering with larger grain sizes at the central. The microstructural inhomogeneity mainly occurred in the final stage of sintering. Doping ZrO2 mitigated microstructural inhomogeneity and decreased markedly the grain size of Lu2O3 ceramics. Raman measurements indicated that the disordered structure was formed due to oxygen vacancy, and the oxygen vacancy concentration at the central was higher than at the peripheral. The oxygen vacancy concentration gradient is the dominant factor governing nonuniform microstructure evolution during vacuum sintering. Furthermore, a uniform microstructure was obtained by the inhibition of oxygen vacancy formation by the Lu2O3/ZrO2 double powder bed.
The reported experiences of internationally qualified nurses in aged care: A scoping review
Authors: Sheehy Louise , Crawford Tonia , River Jo
Published: October 2023

Aim

To examine the experiences of internationally qualified nurses, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, transitioning to and working in the aged care sector of high‐income countries.

Design

A scoping review.

Data Sources

CINAHL, MEDLINE and PSychINFO databases were searched to find eligible literature published from January 2010 onwards.

Review Methods

This scoping review was based on the framework by Arksey and O'Malley and the PRISMA‐ScR guidelines. The literature search was conducted by the first author, and all three authors reviewed the retrieved studies for eligibility and inclusion.

Results

Fourteen articles were eligible. Data was categorized into three broad themes: stress of migration and transition; miscommunication, racism and discrimination; and aged care specific challenges which included two sub‐themes ‘shock of aged care’ and ‘bottom care’.

Conclusion

Internationally qualified nurses, particularly if they are culturally and linguistically diverse, face unique stresses and challenges in aged care and face barriers in the recognition of skills and qualifications. The under‐utilization of skills is not only a loss in terms of patient care but is linked to fears of de‐skilling, losing professional development and opportunities for career progression.

Impact

Internationally qualified nurses are positioned as a solution to aged care shortages in high‐income countries; however, there is a scarcity of research exploring their experiences. In the context of the global aged care staffing crisis, an understanding of the stresses and challenges faced by internationally qualified nurses will further strengthen efforts to recruit, support and retain skilled nurses in aged care.
Differential effects of soil conservation practices on arthropods and crop yields
Authors: Lichtenberg Elinor M. , Milosavljević Ivan , Campbell Alistair J. , Crowder David W.
Published: October 2023

Many agricultural management tactics, such as reduced tillage, aim to promote biodiversity and ecosystem services. Responses to such tactics can be context dependent, however, and differentially impact (i) functional groups of service‐providing organisms and (ii) crop yields. In canola (Brassica napus L., B. rapa L.) crop fields, we assessed how soil tillage and landscape context (amount of semi‐natural habitat within 1 km of each field) affected arthropod biodiversity and crop yield. We assessed effects of full (multiple tillage passes that leave soil surface bare), intermediate (tilled once and some stubble remains), or no (seed planted directly into last year's stubble) tillage on functional groups with unique diets and reproductive strategies: (i) herbivores, (ii) kleptoparasites, (iii) parasitoids, (iv) pollinators, and (v) predators. Effects of tillage and landscape context on arthropod abundance and diversity varied across functional groups. Pollinators responded strongest to tillage, benefitting from intermediate tillage. Predators and herbivores responded strongly to landscape context, as both were more abundant in landscapes with more semi‐natural habitat. Our results suggest that natural history differences among functional groups mediate effects of landscape context on biodiversity. However, variation in arthropod communities had little effect on canola crop yield. The effects of soil management practices on aboveground arthropods are complex, and practices thought to increase some aspects of agricultural sustainability may not be beneficial in other contexts. Identifying practices such as intermediate tillage that may increase soil quality and arthropod diversity is a key to designing agricultural ecosystems that will effectively benefit both biodiversity and human well‐being.
Use of low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance for moisture variation analysis of fresh in‐shell peanut during different drying methods
Authors: Chen Pengxiao , Li Yu , Jiang Mengmeng , Zhu Wenxue , Wang Dianxuan , Chen Liang , Zhang Runyang
Published: October 2023

In exploring the law of heat transfer and water diffusion of peanut, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) was used to analyze moisture migration in peanuts subjected to hot air drying (HAD), infrared drying (IRD), and sequential hot air‐infrared drying (HAD‐IRD) at 40, 50, 60, and 70°C. In HAD and IRD, free water was removed first, and some of free water was converted into loosely bound water. In HAD‐IRD, free water and loosely bound water were primarily removed. Regression models were used to predict changes of free water in peanuts. Based on MRI, the binding force on water decreases with the increase of temperature, and water migration from the inside to the outside is accelerated. HAD‐IRD can promote the removal of free water and the conversion of bound water into more easily removable water. This study revealed that HAD‐IRD can effectively reduce the drying time compared with HAD and IRD. Moreover, LF‐NMR can be an effective tool for detecting moisture changes in peanuts. The research results provide guidance for the selection of peanut processing technique.

Practical applications

Drying is an important food processing and preservation method based on the principle of reducing the moisture content of materials. Our study shows that HAD‐IRD is a superior, feasible drying method, as compared with other published works. This drying method removes a large amount of free water by hot air in the early stage and removes the remaining water by radiant heating in the later stage, which achieves rapid dehydration and greatly reduces the drying time. By identifying the moisture migration mechanism of the three drying methods, this study improves the drying theory and provides a theoretical basis for drying in the peanut processing industry.
Cholinesterase inhibitors and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and the risk of peptic ulcers: A self‐controlled study
Authors: Szilcz Máté , Wastesson Jonas W. , Calderón‐Larrañaga Amaia , Prieto‐Alhambra Daniel , Blotière Pierre‐Olivier , Maura Géric , Johnell Kristina
Published: October 2023

Background

Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be used with caution in adults aged 65 years and older. Their gastrointestinal adverse event risk might be further reinforced when using concomitant cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs). We aimed to investigate the association between NSAIDs and ChEI use and the risk of peptic ulcers in adults aged 65 years and older.

Methods

Register‐based self‐controlled case series study including adults ≥65 years with a new prescription of ChEIs and NSAIDs, diagnosed with incident peptic ulcer in Sweden, 2007–2020. We identified persons from the Total Population Register individually linked to several nationwide registers. We estimated the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of peptic ulcer with a conditional Poisson regression model for four mutually exclusive risk periods: use of ChEIs, NSAIDs, and the combination of ChEIs and NSAIDs, compared with the non‐treatment in the same individual. Risk periods were identified based on the prescribed daily dose, extracted via a text‐parsing algorithm, and a 30‐day grace period.

Results

Of 70,060 individuals initiating both ChEIs and NSAIDs, we identified 1500 persons with peptic ulcer (median age at peptic ulcer 80 years), of whom 58% were females. Compared with the non‐treatment periods, the risk of peptic ulcer substantially increased for the combination of ChEIs and NSAIDs (IRR: 9.0, [6.8–11.8]), more than for NSAIDs alone (5.2, [4.4–6.0]). No increased risks were found for the use of ChEIs alone (1.0, [0.9–1.2]).

Discussion

We found that the risk of peptic ulcer associated with the concomitant use of NSAIDs and ChEIs was over and beyond the risk associated with NSAIDs alone. Our results underscore the importance of carefully considering the risk of peptic ulcers when co‐prescribing NSAIDs and ChEIs to adults aged 65 years and older.
A dietitian‐led low‐FODMAP diet webinar: a pre–post study evaluating its impact on symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Colgan Aisling , Digby Katie , Apekey Tanefa , Elborough‐Whitehouse Iona , Seamark Leah , Radcliffe Olivia , Williams Marianne , Hickson Mary
Published: October 2023

Background

Evidence suggests that the low fermentable oligo‐, di‐, mono‐saccharides, and polyols (FODMAP) diet improves irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms when delivered by a dietitian. However, demand for dietetic appointments exceeds supply. Prerecorded webinars are acceptable and cost‐effective for delivering first‐line IBS dietary advice.

Methodology

This study, using a pre–post design, aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a low‐FODMAP diet restriction phase webinar at improving IBS symptoms. Participants with self‐reported IBS symptoms were asked to report their IBS symptoms, stool frequency, stool consistency and IBS medication use, before and 8 weeks postwebinar via an online questionnaire. The presence and severity of participants' symptoms and bowel habits were captured using validated tools and a global symptom question.

Results

In total 228 participants responded to both pre‐ and postsurveys. A statistically significant improvement in all symptoms was observed 8 weeks postwebinar (p < 0.05). The proportion of participants rating their overall symptoms as moderate‐to‐severe reduced from 85.5% at baseline to 34.6% postwebinar (50.9% reduction [p < 0.001]). The proportion of participants reporting normal stool consistency and frequency significantly increased postwebinar (23.2%–39.9% [p < 0.001] and 76.3%–89% [p < 0.001], respectively). Satisfactory relief of symptoms increased from 16.7% to 53.1%, (p < 0.001) 8 weeks postwebinar.

Conclusions

These results are comparable with literature on the efficacy of face‐to‐face delivery of low‐FODMAP diet education. Dietitians should consider directing triaged patients with IBS, who have tried first‐line dietary advice, to this webinar as an alternative or alongside current practice.
Applications of clinker microscopy for approaching a special case study in cement production
Authors: Mutke S. , Canonico F.
Published: October 2023

Within this article the importance of the optical light microscopy for the investigation of cement clinker is illustrated by three examples: (a) Ono's method plays an important role in the case of the production of oil well clinker where the reactivity of alite and additionally the melting phase influences strongly the properties of the later cement; (b) the use of secondary fuels can lead to unexpected phenomena in the clinker matrix accompanied by strange changes in colour; (c) for the interpretation of CSA clinkers, the combination of light and scanning electron microscopy can give important information about the formation of clinker phases depending on the burning conditions which can hardly be detected by other methods. However, in case of CSA clinker, there is still little knowledge about the relationship between production and hydraulic properties of the clinker and therefore no systematic documentation is available.
Relationships Between Strong Black Woman Belief, Coping Behaviors, Perceived Social Support, and Psychological Distress Symptoms for Black Mothers After Stillbirth
Authors: Henry Carrie J. , Kelly Ursula , Dunlop Anne L. , Paul Sudeshna , Chandler Rasheeta D. , Christiansen‐Lindquist Lauren , Song Mi‐Kyung
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Psychological distress symptoms (symptoms of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress) are common following stillbirth. Black women who experience stillbirth are less likely to seek support than White women, consistent with the strong Black woman (SBW) construct, which expects Black women to tolerate stress and trauma gracefully, without seeking help.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study we sought to determine the relative contributions of SBW belief, perceived lack of social support, and culturally relevant coping behaviors to psychological distress symptoms in Black women bereaved by stillbirth. We partnered with a stillbirth support organization to recruit a sample of 91 Black women bereaved by stillbirth in the 3 years prior to study participation. The online study survey measured SBW belief, culturally relevant coping behaviors, perceived social support, and psychological distress symptoms along with sociodemographics, pregnancy history, and stillbirth characteristics. We used stepwise selection in multiple linear regression to determine the relative contributions of SBW belief, perceived social support, and coping behaviors to measures of psychological distress symptoms in our sample.

Results

Higher SBW belief, lower perceived social support, and higher collective coping (coping behaviors involving other people) were associated with increases in all 3 measures of psychological distress symptoms, controlling for age and other traumatic events.

Discussion

Further understanding of the influence of SBW belief on Black women's psychological distress following stillbirth may assist with the development of culturally appropriate interventions to mitigate psychological distress symptoms in this group.
FXR agonists INT‐787 and OCA increase RECK and inhibit liver steatosis and inflammation in diet‐induced ob/ob mouse model of NASH
Authors: Di Pasqua Laura G. , Cagna Marta , Palladini Giuseppina , Croce Anna C. , Cadamuro Massimiliano , Fabris Luca , Perlini Stefano , Adorini Luciano , Ferrigno Andrea , Vairetti Mariapia
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

We have previously shown in a model of hepatic ischaemia/reperfusion injury that the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonist obeticholic acid (OCA) restores reversion‐inducing‐cysteine‐rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK), an inverse modulator of metalloproteases (MMPs) and inhibitor of the sheddases ADAM10 and ADAM17 involved in inflammation and fibrogenesis. Here, the effects of FXR agonists OCA and INT‐787 on hepatic levels of RECK, MMPs, ADAM10 and ADAM17 were compared in a diet‐induced ob/ob mouse model of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods

Lep ob/ob NASH mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) or control diet (CD) for 9 weeks (wks) were treated with OCA or INT‐787 0.05% dosed via HFD admixture (30 mg/kg/day) or HFD for further 12 wks. Serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and inflammatory cytokines, liver RECK, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activity as well as ADAM10, ADAM17, collagen deposition (Sirius red), hepatic stellate cell activation (α‐SMA) and pCK+ reactive biliary cells were quantified.

Results

Only INT‐787 significantly reduced serum ALT, IL‐1β and TGF‐β. A downregulation of RECK expression and protein levels observed in HFD groups (at 9 and 21 wks) was counteracted by both OCA and INT‐787. HFD induced a significant increase in liver MMP‐2 and MMP‐9; OCA administration reduced both MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 while INT‐787 markedly reduced MMP‐2 expression. OCA and INT‐787 reduced both ADAM10 and ADAM17 expression and number of pCK+ cells. INT‐787 was superior to OCA in decreasing collagen deposition and α‐SMA levels.

Conclusion

INT‐787 is superior to OCA in controlling specific cell types and clinically relevant anti‐inflammatory and antifibrotic molecular mechanisms in NASH.
The cascade of care for patients with chronic hepatitis delta in Southern Stockholm, Sweden for the past 30 years
Authors: Kamal Habiba , Lindahl Karin , Ingre Michael , Gahrton Caroline , Karkkonen Kerstin , Nowak Piotr , Vesterbacka Jan , Stål Per , Wedemeyer Heiner , Duberg Ann‐Sofi , Aleman Soo
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Previous studies have shown suboptimal screening for hepatitis D virus (HDV) among patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). This study presents the cascade of care for HDV infection in a major secondary referral centre in Southern Stockholm, Sweden.

Methods

HBsAg+ve patients attending Karolinska University Hospital (KUH) from 1992 to 2022 were identified. The prevalence of anti‐HDV and/or HDV RNA positivity, interferon (IFN) therapy and maintained virological responses (MVR) after HDV treatment were assessed. Also, time to anti‐HDV testing was analysed in relation to liver‐related outcomes with logistic regression.

Results

Among 4095 HBsAg+ve persons, 3703 (90.4%) underwent an anti‐HDV screening; within a median of 1.8 months (range 0.0–57.1) after CHB diagnosis. This screening rate increased over time, to 97.9% in the last decade. Overall, 310 (8.4%) were anti‐HDV+ve, of which 202 (65.2%) were HDV RNA+ve. Eighty‐five (42%) received IFN, and 9 (10.6%) achieved MVR at the last follow‐up. The predictive factors for anti‐HDV screening were Asian origin, diagnosis after the year 2012, HIV co‐infection (negative factor) and HBV DNA level < 2000 IU/mL in univariable analysis, while HIV co‐infection was the only remaining factor in multivariable analysis. Delayed anti‐HDV test >5 years was independently associated with worsened liver‐related outcomes (adjusted odds ratio = 7.6, 95% CI 1.8–31.6).

Conclusion

Higher frequency of HDV screening than previously published data could be seen among CHB patients at KUH in a low‐endemic setting. Receiving a delayed screening test seems to be associated with worse outcomes, stressing the need of a strategy for timely HDV diagnosis.
Deer dietary responses to wildfire: Optimal foraging, individual specialization, or opportunism?
Authors: White Carly Q. , Bush Joshua P. , Sacks Benjamin N.
Published: October 2023

Increasing impacts of wildfire on arid regions of the world fuelled by climate change highlight the need to better understand how natural communities respond to fire. We took advantage of a large (1660‐km2) wildfire that erupted in northern California during an in‐progress study of black‐tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) to investigate deer use of and diets within burned and unburned habitats before and after the fire. We compared deer diet breadth to predictions of optimal foraging theory, the niche variation hypothesis, and opportunistic (i.e., generalist) foraging expectations under the assumption that overall availability and diversity of forage in burned areas declined immediately after the fire and increased as the plant community recovered in the next 3 years after the fire. We used faecal pellet counts to document space use and metabarcoding to study diet during pre‐fire, post‐fire, and recovery periods. Pellet counts supported predictions that deer increased use of unburned sites and reduced use of burn sites after the fire and began to return to burned sites in subsequent sampling years. Diet diversity did not differ significantly between control and burn sites before the fire, but was lower in burn than control sites post‐fire (p < .001), when and where diet was dominated by oak (Quercusspp). In contrast, during subsequent years, diet diversity was higher (including more herbaceous plants) in burn than control sites (p < .05). In contrast to predictions of optimal foraging and niche variation hypotheses, individual deer foraged as generalists for which changes in dietary niche breadth paralleled fire‐induced changes in diversity of the plant community.
Insight into neofunctionalization of 2,3‐oxidosqualene cyclases in B,C‐ring‐opened triterpene biosynthesis in quinoa
Authors: Zhou Qian , Sun Peng , Xiong Hao‐Ming , Xie Jiali , Zhu Guo‐Yuan , Tantillo Dean J. , Huang Ancheng C.
Published: October 2023

Bioactive triterpenes feature complex fused‐ring structures, primarily shaped by the first‐committed enzyme, 2,3‐oxidosqualene cyclases (OSCs) in plant triterpene biosynthesis. Triterpenes with B,C‐ring‐opened skeletons are extremely rare with unknown formation mechanisms, harbouring unchartered chemistry and biology.

Here, through mining the genome of Chenopodium quinoa followed by functional characterization, we identified a stress‐responsive and neofunctionalized OSC capable of generating B,C‐ring‐opened triterpenes, including camelliol A and B and the novel (−)‐quinoxide A as wax components of the specialized epidermal bladder cells, namely the quinoxide synthase (CqQS).

Protein structure analysis followed by site‐directed mutagenesis identified key variable amino acid sites underlying functional interconversion between pentacyclic β‐amyrin synthase (CqbAS1) and B,C‐ring‐opened triterpene synthase CqQS. Mutation of one key residue (N612K) in even evolutionarily distant Arabidopsis β‐amyrin synthase could generate quinoxides, indicating a conserved mechanism for B,C‐ring‐opened triterpene formation in plants. Quantum computation combined with docking experiments further suggests that conformations of conserved W613 and F413 of CqQS might be key to selectively stabilizing intermediate carbocations towards B,C‐ring‐opened triterpene formation.

Our findings shed light on quinoa triterpene skeletal diversity and mechanisms underlying B,C‐ring‐opened triterpene biosynthesis, opening avenues towards accessing their chemistry and biology and paving the way for quinoa trait engineering and quality improvement.
Sleep deprivation attenuates neural responses to outcomes from risky decision‐making
Authors: Mao Tianxin , Fang Zhuo , Chai Ya , Deng Yao , Rao Joy , Quan Peng , Goel Namni , Basner Mathias , Guo Bowen , Dinges David F. , Liu Jianghong , Detre John A. , Rao Hengyi
Published: October 2023

Sleep loss impacts a broad range of brain and cognitive functions. However, how sleep deprivation affects risky decision‐making remains inconclusive. This study used functional MRI to examine the impact of one night of total sleep deprivation (TSD) on risky decision‐making behavior and the underlying brain responses in healthy adults. In this study, we analyzed data from N = 56 participants in a strictly controlled 5‐day and 4‐night in‐laboratory study using a modified Balloon Analogue Risk Task. Participants completed two scan sessions in counter‐balanced order, including one scan during rested wakefulness (RW) and another scan after one night of TSD. Results showed no differences in participants' risk‐taking propensity and risk‐induced activation between RW and TSD. However, participants showed significantly reduced neural activity in the anterior cingulate cortex and bilateral insula for loss outcomes, and in bilateral putamen for win outcomes during TSD compared with RW. Moreover, risk‐induced activation in the insula negatively correlated with participants' risk‐taking propensity during RW, while no such correlations were observed after TSD. These findings suggest that sleep loss may impact risky decision‐making by attenuating neural responses to decision outcomes and impairing brain‐behavior associations.
Affidavit aversion: Public preferences for trust‐based policy instruments
Authors: Hilo‐Merkovich Rinat , Peer Eyal , Feldman Yuval
Published: October 2023

Regulators who aim to reduce administrative burdens often promote trust‐based policy instruments, such as legal affidavits or honesty pledges, as substitutes to traditional bureaucratic procedures. However, little is known on how the general public view such instruments, and whether people would actually comply with them, and under what circumstances. Using a series of experimental vignettes, we examine public preferences toward these instruments under different conditions and contexts. We find that overall, people exhibit an aversion to using affidavits, even when they are inexpensive and can save a considerable amount of time compared to the traditional bureaucratic procedure. In contrast, honesty pledges are largely preferred over both the standard procedure and signing an affidavit. We discuss factors influencing the public choice of trust‐based instruments and offer recommendations to help policymakers promote public compliance using behaviorally informed policy instruments.
Thixotropy, antithixotropy, and viscoelasticity in hysteresis
Authors: Wang Yilin , Ewoldt Randy H.
Published: October 2023

Thixotropy, antithixotropy, and viscoelasticity are three types of time-dependent dynamics that involve fundamentally different underlying physical processes. Here, we show that the three dynamics exhibit different signatures in hysteresis by examining the fingerprints of the simplest thixotropic kinetic model, a new antithixotropic model that we introduce here, and the Giesekus model. We start by showing that a consistent protocol to generate hysteresis loops is a discrete shear-rate controlled ramp that begins and ends at high shear rates, rather than at low shear rates. Using this protocol, we identify two distinguishing features in the resulting stress versus shear rate loops. The first is the direction of the hysteresis loops: clockwise for thixotropy, but counterclockwise for viscoelasticity and antithixotropy. A second feature is achieved at high ramping rates where all responses lose hysteresis: the viscoelastic response shows a stress plateau at low shear rates due to lack of stress relaxation, whereas the thixotropic and antithixotropic responses are purely viscous with minimal shear thinning or thickening. We establish further evidence for these signatures by experimentally measuring the hysteresis of Laponite suspensions, carbon black suspensions, and poly(ethylene oxide) solutions, each representing a historically accepted example of each class of material behavior. The signatures measured in experiments are consistent with those predicted by the three models. This study reveals different fingerprints in hysteresis loops associated with thixotropy, antithixotropy, and viscoelasticity, which may be helpful in distinguishing the three time-dependent responses.
Complete genome sequence of the lumpy skin disease virus reported from Jammu and Kashmir, India, during 2022 outbreak
Authors: Bhat Shabir , Chaudry Waseem , Mittal Purnima , Ahmad Bilal , Haroon Zahoor , Shaheen Shaista , Mir Masood , Reddy Manjunath , Wani Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Lumpy skin disease virus (LSDV) is the causative agent of an economically important disease of cattle and water buffaloes. Here, we announce the complete genome sequence of the LSDV from Jammu and Kashmir, India. LSDV/02/KASH/IND/2022 was detected in skin biopsy sample of an LSD-infected dairy cow on 24 October 2022.
Complete genome sequence of seed-transmitted soybean yellow mottle mosaic virus from soybeans in Korea
Authors: Bak Sangmin , Kwon Mina , Baek Seungbin , Yang Minjoo , Lee Hong-Kyu , Lee Su-Heon
Published: October 2023

Soybean yellow mottle mosaic virus (SYMMV), a member of the genus
Gammacarmovirus
, remains poorly understood in terms of its transmission pathway. This study reveals the complete genome sequence of a seed-transmitted isolate, ST-HB56, contributing to the understanding of SYMMV’s ecological dynamics.
Complete genome sequence of
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
strain SP-1303 from lineage 8, associated with Far East scarlet-like fever
Authors: Lemarignier Marion , Savin Cyril , Lê-Bury Pierre , Dussurget Olivier , Pizarro-Cerdá Javier
Published: October 2023

We report the complete genome sequence of
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
strain SP-1303, identified as part of lineage 8 and associated with Far East scarlet-like fever. The genome includes the chromosome, the
Yersinia
-virulence plasmid (pYV) encoding a type III secretion system essential for virulence, the pVM82 plasmid, and two cryptic plasmids.
Characterizing alterations in the gut microbiota following postpartum weight change
Authors: Chalifour Bridget N. , Trifonova Diana I. , Holzhausen Elizabeth A. , Bailey Maximilian J. , Schmidt Kelsey A. , Babaei Mahsa , Mokhtari Pari , Goran Michael I. , Alderete Tanya L.
Published: October 2023

The postpartum period represents a dynamic time for women’s health, particularly when it comes to changes in weight, which can disproportionately affect Latina women. Weight change, particularly weight gain, has been associated with pronounced changes in host gut microbiome profiles and composition. This study aimed to evaluate changes in the gut microbiome among Latina mothers who gained or lost weight in the first 6 months after delivery by characterizing changes in gut microbial co-occurrence networks, alpha- and beta-diversity measures, and relative abundances of bacterial taxa. This study characterized the gut microbiomes of 105 Latina mothers at 1 and 6 months postpartum, comparing mothers who gained weight (
n
= 65) with those who lost weight (
n
= 40) during the 6-month period following delivery. Stool samples were collected for 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Statistical analysis was conducted using microbial co-occurrence network analysis as well as paired two-sided
t
-tests. Mothers who gained weight postpartum had significant changes in their co-occurrence network density, alpha- and beta-diversity, and relative abundances of certain microbial taxa compared to those who lost weight. Microbial co-occurrence networks, representing measures of differences in community structure dynamics, of the weight gain group decreased in density by 2%, while there was no change in density in the weight loss group. Additionally, the weight gain group had lower Shannon entropy after 6 months and significant changes in the relative abundances of 17 bacterial families and genera, while there were no significant changes in any of these metrics in the weight loss group.

IMPORTANCE

Previous research has reported differences in the gut microbiome associated with varying body compositions. More specifically, within populations of mothers, the focus has been on the impact of gestational weight gain. This is the first study to examine postpartum weight change and its association with changes in the gut microbiome, similarly, it is the first to use a Latina cohort to do so. The results support the idea that weight gain may be an important factor in reducing gut microbiome network connectivity, diversity, and changing abundances of specific microbial taxa, all measures thought to impact host health. These results suggest that weight gain dynamically alters mothers’ gut microbial communities in the first 6 months postpartum, with comparatively little change in mothers who lost weight; further research is needed to examine the health consequences of such changes.
Virulence profiling of
Cryptococcus gattii
isolates in China: insights from a multi-center study
Authors: Zang Xuelei , Ke Weixin , Huang Yemei , Yang Chen , Song Jialin , Deng Hengyu , Zhou Meng , Wang Qiqi , Zhou Yangyu , Dai Bin , Qian Jin , Shen Dingxia , Wang Linqi , Xue Xinying
Published: October 2023

Cryptococcus gattii
(
C. gattii
) is emerging as a life-threatening fungus worldwide. However, few data were available in China. In this study, 27 isolates and 32 patient information were collected from several hospitals in China, together with previously reported data (80 cases), to describe the geographic distribution of
C. gattii
. Molecular identification and genetic diversity analysis of the isolates were conducted using multilocus sequence typing, while the microbiological and virulence characteristics were explored through
in vitro
phenotypic tests and
in vivo
animal experiments. The findings revealed that patients infected with
C. gattii
were mainly immunocompetent males, with most showing symptoms of central nervous system involvement. Isolated strains were predominantly distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, with VGI genotype predominance. These strains exhibited marked genetic diversity, identifying 25 distinct sequence types (STs) among the 57 isolates (available data), including three novel STs (ST565, ST567, and ST568).
In vitro
assays unveiled significant differences between VGI and VGII in growth capacity at 39°C, capsule diameter, melanin production, UV resistance, and antioxidative capacity, with VGII displaying greater resilience. Integrating animal experiments and clinical prognosis showed that pathogenicity did not directly correlate with
in vitro
virulence phenotypes or molecular genotypes, underscoring virulence’s complexity. Furthermore, histopathological analysis suggested that lung tissue damage might primarily contribute to mouse mortality, particularly with more pathogenic strains causing extensive lung tissue damage. Our study has the potential to provide valuable data for a comprehensive understanding of the microbiological characteristics of
C. gattii
in China.

IMPORTANCE

Our study indicates that the molecular typing of
Cryptococcus gattii
is unrelated to virulence. The integration of animal experiments and clinical prognosis demonstrated that pathogenicity did not exhibit a direct correlation with
in vitro
virulence phenotypes or molecular genotypes, emphasizing the intricate nature of virulence. In conclusion, our research holds the potential to provide valuable insights into understanding the microbiological attributes of
C. gattii
in China.
X-linked cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy
Authors: Weldrick Cara Louise , Boers Peter , Kiely Patrick , O'Halloran Liam
Published: October 2023

A man in his 30s presented with a 6-month history of progressive left face, arm and leg weakness. Medical history included epilepsy and vitamin B12deficiency. Three maternal second degree relatives died before the age of 7 from various neurological disorders. Examination revealed a mild left facial droop and weakness of the left shoulder, hip and ankle. Reflexes were symmetrical and tone was normal. Differential diagnosis included glioma, subacute infarction, lymphoma and demyelination. MRI brain showed an extensive right sided subcortical white matter lesion, with extension into the brainstem. The patient’s weakness progressed over 3 months. Brain biopsy showed evidence of demyelination and gliosis. A pathological diagnosis of tumefactive multiple sclerosis was made, but also rare metabolic disorders such as X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD) were proposed. Serum very long-chain fatty acids were significantly elevated. Genetic testing showed a mutation in theABCD1gene, confirming a diagnosis of X-ALD.
Clinical challenges in the treatment of a patient with decompensated heart failure and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd)
Authors: Tojaga Nedim , Egholm Gro , Lund Hansen Dennis
Published: October 2023

We present a case of a man in his 60s, known with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd) and cor pulmonale, admitted to the department of cardiology due to cardiac decompensation and anaemia. The main complaint was dyspnoea. Echocardiography confirmed severe cor pulmonale with compression of the left ventricle. G6PDd has been linked with pulmonary hypertension which could contribute to aforementioned echocardiographic findings. Diuretics are the first line of treatment when it comes to cardiac decompensation, but sulfonamide diuretics can induce or exacerbate haemolysis in patients with G6PDd. Due to the respiratory distress of the patient, a treatment plan including sulfonamide diuretics was initiated in collaboration with the haematologists. Unfortunately, the patient died 2 days after admission. This case emphasises that not all cardiac patients can tolerate standard treatment with sulfonamide diuretics; despite this, they remain essential in the acute setting, and they are associated with foreseeable but only partly manageable complications in susceptible patients.
Influence of neighborhood-level socioeconomic deprivation and individual socioeconomic position on risk of developing type 2 diabetes in older men: a longitudinal analysis in the British Regional Heart Study cohort
Authors: Bush Kathryn J , Papacosta A Olia , Lennon Lucy T , Rankin Judith , Whincup Peter H , Wannamethee S Goya , Ramsay Sheena E
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Evidence from longitudinal studies on the influence of neighborhood socioeconomic deprivation in older age on the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is limited. This study investigates the prospective associations of neighborhood-level deprivation and individual socioeconomic position (SEP) with T2DM incidence in older age.

Research design and methods

The British Regional Heart Study studied 4252 men aged 60–79 years in 1998–2000. Neighborhood-level deprivation was based on the Index of Multiple Deprivation quintiles for participants’ 1998–2000 residential postcode. Individual SEP was defined as social class based on longest-held occupation. A cumulative score of individual socioeconomic factors was derived. Incident T2DM cases were ascertained from primary care records; prevalent cases were excluded. Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the associations.

Results

Among 3706 men, 368 incident cases of T2DM were observed over 18 years. The age-adjusted T2DM risk increased from the least deprived quintile to the most deprived: HR per quintile increase 1.14 (95% CI 1.06 to 1.23) (p=0.0005). The age-adjusted T2DM HR in social class V (lowest) versus social class I (highest) was 2.45 (95% CI 1.36 to 4.42) (p=0.001). Both associations attenuated but remained significant on adjustment for other deprivation measures, becoming non-significant on adjustment for body mass index and T2DM family history. T2DM risk increased with cumulative individual adverse socioeconomic factors: HR per point increase 1.14 (95% CI 1.05 to 1.24).

Conclusions

Inequalities in T2DM risk persist in later life, both in relation to neighborhood-level and individual-level socioeconomic factors. Underlying modifiable risk factors continue to need to be addressed in deprived older age populations to reduce disease burden.
School-based Evaluation Advancing Response for Child Health (SEARCH): a mixed longitudinal cohort study from multifaceted perspectives in Jiangsu, China
Authors: Zhang Ran , Wang Yang , Womer Fay , Yang Wenyi , Wang Xin , Xu Xiao , Su Zhao , Wang Lifei , Zhou Jingshuai , Qin Shisen , Zhou Keyin , Liu Fengyi , Zhang Xiyan , Lin Yuan , Zhang Xizhe , Yang Jie , Wang Fei
Published: October 2023

Background

Schools play a crucial role in providing mental health services to children and adolescents. However, the vastness of the student population and mental health workforce shortage in China severely limit the capacity for adequate care access and delivery.

Objective

We propose a large, mixed longitudinal cohort study, ‘School-based Evaluation Advancing Response for Child Health (SEARCH)’, aimed at addressing the increasing demand from individuals seeking access to mental healthcare services.

Methods

SEARCH uses a digital platform and school-based protocol for comprehensive assessment of the mental well-being of Chinese students in grades 4–12 incorporating individual, caregiver and teacher input, including capture of facial and acoustic features and response times, as well as mental well-being assessments.

Findings

We completed first wave data collection from nearly 20 000 participants (students, caregivers and teachers) at 11 schools, grades 4–12, in 3 cities in Jiangsu province in Southeast China from September 2022 to February 2023. We intend to conduct follow-up assessments for grades 4 through 12 at the 11 school sites every 6 months for 5 years.

Conclusions

SEARCH will provide important insight into the developmental trajectory of mental well-being in Chinese children and adolescents. The study protocol does not simply focus on student self-report and incorporates caregiver and teacher viewpoints as well. It also collects objective indicators that may facilitate development of screening tools.

Clinical implications

We believe future study findings will guide the development and implementation of school-based mental healthcare initiatives to improve the well-being of children and adolescents.
TILE pilot trial study protocol: Tinzaparin Lead-in to Prevent the Post-Thrombotic syndrome study protocol
Authors: Makedonov Ilia , Kahn Susan , Abdulrehman Jameel , Schulman Sam , Delluc Aurelien , Gross Peter L , Galanaud Jean-Philippe
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a form of chronic venous insufficiency due to a prior ipsilateral deep venous thrombosis (DVT). This is a frequent complication that develops in 20%–50% of patients after a proximal DVT and is associated with significant healthcare, economic and societal consequences. In the absence of effective and well-tolerated treatment options for established PTS, effective preventative measures are needed. Anticoagulation itself reduces the risk of PTS, and low-molecular-weight heparin may reduce this further through anti-inflammatory properties targeting the initial acute inflammatory phase of DVT.

Methods and analysis

The Tinzaparin Lead-In to Prevent the Post-Thrombotic syndrome pilot trial is an investigator-initiated, multicentre, open-label assessor-blinded trial that will randomise patients with first acute symptomatic common femoral or iliac DVT to receive either a 3-week lead-in course of tinzaparin, followed by rivaroxaban (experimental arm) or rivaroxaban alone (control arm). Its primary objectives are to assess: (1) proportion of PTS at 6 months using the Villalta scale and (2) study feasibility, which consists of (a) the proportion of screened patients eligible for the study, (2) the proportion of eligible patients recruited and (c) the proportion of recruited patients adherent to treatment (defined as at least 80% of drug taken). This study will determine the feasibility of a subsequent larger definitive trial. Secondary outcomes include change of quality of life scores, PTS severity, global improvement, patient satisfaction, bleeding, recurrent venous thromboembolism, leg pain, death and lost to follow-up. Target recruitment will be a total of 60 participants, recruited at 5–6 centres.

Ethics and dissemination

Primary ethics approval was received from the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center Research Ethics Board (approval ID 3315). Results of the study will be disseminated via peer-reviewed presentation at scientific conferences and open access publication.

Trial registration number

NCT04794569.
Updating the Foodbot Factory serious game with new interactive engaging features and enhanced educational content
Authors: Franco-Arellano Beatriz , Brown Jacqueline Marie , Daggett Quinn , Lockhart Courtney , Kapralos Bill , LeSage Ann , Arcand JoAnne
Published: October 2023

Serious games (i.e., digital games designed for educational purposes) can foster positive learning attitudes and are increasingly used as educational tools. Foodbot Factory is a serious game application (app) that helps children learn about healthy eating based on Canada’s Food Guide principles and has demonstrated to increase nutrition knowledge among this group. This paper describes the process followed to expand Foodbot Factory’s educational content and integrate immersive technologies and innovative features into the app. The revision process, which was guided by the Obesity-Related Behavioral Intervention Trials model, included the following phases: first, an interdisciplinary team of nutrition scientists, education experts, and computer scientists analyzed data from the original pilot study, recently published literature, and feedback from stakeholders to define areas to improve Foodbot Factory. The five original Foodbot Factory modules were evaluated by the team during weekly meetings, where the educational content, interactive features, and other elements that required updates (e.g., aesthetics and accessibility) were identified. Second, prototypes were created and refined until a final version of Foodbot Factory was approved. Nineteen children tested the updated Foodbot Factory and found it “easy to use” (89%) and “fun” (95%). The new version of Foodbot Factory contains 19 learning objectives, including 13 original and six new objectives. Interactive engagement features in the updated Foodbot Factory included augmented reality incorporated into two learning modules; new mini-games were created, including a memory game; an overhaul of the aesthetics; (e.g., new food images); and accessibility features were included to support users with cognitive and vision disabilities.