bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Certolizumab pegol effectiveness, survival and safety in patients with psoriasis: A multicenter retrospective analysis in daily clinical practice by the Spanish Psoriasis Group
Authors: Sahuquillo‐Torralba Antonio , Mansilla‐Polo Miguel , Pujol‐Marco Conrad , Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Rull Eva V. , Ruiz Villaverde Ricardo , Ferran Marta , Pitarch Gerard , Lopez Anna , Beltran Emma , Urruticoechea‐Arana Ana , Riera‐Monroig Josep , Alsina Merce , Vidal David , Belinchón Romero Isabel , Notario Jaime , Carrascosa José M. , Gonzalez‐Delgado Víctor , Mollet Jordi , Ribera Miquel , Gallardo Fernando
Published: May 2024

Background

Certolizumab is an Fc‐free PEGylated tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNFα) inhibitor recently approved for the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis, although there is limited real‐world evidence on the effectiveness and safety in patients with plaque psoriasis treated with certolizumab.

The objective of this article is to determine the effectiveness, drug survival, and safety, including pregnancy, childbirth, and lactation, of certolizumab in moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis under real‐world conditions.

Methods

This is a retrospective, multicenter, observational study performed in 15 hospitals in Spain. It evaluates the effectiveness and safety of certolizumab in plaque psoriasis in the clinical practice setting.

Results

A total of 67 patients (73% female) were evaluated with a mean baseline Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) of 8.9. At Week 12, the mean PASI was 2.3 (n = 67), 1.3 (n = 57) at Week 24 and 1.3 at Week 52 (n = 34). Absolute PASI < 3 was achieved in 69, 86, and 92% of patients at Weeks 12, 24, and 52, respectively, as observed. For its part, using the under‐response imputation analysis, PASI < 3 at Weeks 12, 24, and 52 were achieved by 69, 73, and 49% of the patients, respectively. A total of 35 patients (52%) had concomitant psoriatic arthritis, and, in 24 of them, Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis Score (DAPSA) was recorded at baseline, with a mean value of 17.9 which decreased to 8.2 at Week 12 (n = 22) and to 3.6 at Week 24 (n = 18). Certolizumab treatment was discontinued in 14 out of 67 patients (21%), due to lack/loss of cutaneous or articular effectiveness (n = 11) or patient decision (n = 2) or adverse event in only one patient who developed active tuberculosis. A lower baseline PASI [hazard ratio (HR): 1.12 (1.02–1.23); P = 0.023] and a more significant reduction in PASI at Week 12 [HR: 1.16 (1.07–1.27); P < 0.001] and Week 52 [HR: 1.47 (1.11–1.96); P = 0.007] was shown to be significantly related with better survival for the entire follow‐up period. Fourteen patients were treated during pregnancy and/or lactation without reporting adverse events in either the patient or the newborn.

Conclusions

Certolizumab consistently showed high effectiveness and drug survival rates in this real‐life cohort. The safety demonstrated in clinical trials during pregnancy and lactation seems to be confirmed in clinical practice.
The application of dairy products and their derivatives as edible inks in 3D printing technology: A review
Authors: Dou Xinyue , Ren Junning
Published: May 2024

Three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology digitally designs and manufactures objects through computer‐controlled processes. It requires raw materials with specific rheological properties for extrusion and shape retention. Dairy products hold promise for 3D printing due to their ability to form structures and their nutritional value. However, the quality of 3D printing with dairy products relies on the properties of the printing ink and printer parameters, presenting challenges for practical applications. This work provided a summary of the suitability of dairy‐based 3D printed products, discussing physicochemical modifications and additives to enhance their suitability and nutritional properties. The internal structure and composition of printing inks derived from dairy products are closely linked to their printing performance. Physicochemical modifications and additives effectively improve printability and the nutritional aspects of dairy inks. The 3D printing suitability of dairy inks can be enhanced through physical, chemical or enzymatic treatments. The gel properties of dairy products can be improved by mixing them with hydrophilic gels, introducing calcium, and incorporating lipids to enhance the 3D printing performance of dairy products. 3D printing technology enables the customisation of dairy products with personalised control of nutritional content, meeting the increasing consumer and market demand for healthier foods. In the future, 3D printed dairy products are expected to constitute convenient and quick nutritious food and enter home kitchens.
Nursing assessment of mental health issues in the general clinical environment: A descriptive study
Authors: Ngune Irene , Ewens Beverley , Bell Sharlene , Burns Brendon , Sutton Claire , Creswell Craig , Middlewick Yvonne
Published: May 2024

Aims

To evaluate the effectiveness of a mental health screening form for early identification and care escalation of mental health issues in general settings. A secondary aim was to explore general nurses' use of the form and their confidence to discuss mental health issues with patients.

Methods

A cross‐sectional design comprising a review of clinical records to determine use of the form, instances of missed care and escalation to the mental health team. The survey focused on nurses' confidence in general settings to engage in discussions with patients about mental health. Data were collected from April to December 2022. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology Statement guided this study.

Results

Of 400 patient records, 397 were analysed; 293 (73.8%) of those had mental health screening by nurses. Age was a significant factor, with younger patients more likely to be screened although concerns were typically recognized in older patients. Of the 20 patients identified with mental health concerns, 9 (45%) were referred for further evaluation by the Clinical Liaison Team. While nurses were proactive in assessing physical risks, assessing risk factors that required deeper conversations with patients, including psychiatric history, was lacking. The survey highlighted fewer than half of the respondents (46%, n = 10) felt competent to engage in discussions about mental health; however, most (59%, n = 13) knew when to seek a mental health referral.

Conclusions

General nurses have a role in the early identification and referral of patients with mental health challenges. However, training is imperative to facilitate deeper patient interactions concerning mental health. Integrating mental health checks within general settings is crucial for early detection and intervention, aligning with global quality care standards.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

We received feedback that shaped the research protocol from a consumer representative.
Fear of childbirth among pregnant women: A concept analysis
Authors: Chen Chunning , Hussein Siti Zuhaida Binti , Nasri Noor Wahidah Mohd , Yao Jiasi , Qin Yanyue , Zhao Ziteng , Zuo Ke
Published: May 2024

Aim

To clarify the concept of fear of childbirth among pregnant women and to examine its current measure tools.

Background

Fear of childbirth is a psychological symptom, prevalent among pregnant women, which negatively impacts women's health and well‐being. It has become an increasingly concerning issue in perinatal mental health. However, due to its poor conceptualization, it presents difficulty in conducting reliable assessments and identifying risk factors.

Methods

The Walker and Avant approach to concept analysis guided this review. Six bibliographic databases were systematically searched for published research from their inception date to May 2023. Additional records were identified by manually searching the reference lists of relevant studies. Quantitative and qualitative studies investigating fear of childbirth in pregnant women were included.

Results

Three critical attributes have been identified: cognitive impairments, affective disorders and somatic symptoms. Antecedents include perceived a real or anticipated threat of pregnancy or its outcomes, low perceived self‐coping ability and unmet social support needs. Consequences include processing and avoiding behaviours. This study also identified the dimensions of fear of childbirth, including 6 primary categories and 14 subcategories. The content of five scales was analysed and none covered all domains.

Conclusions

The current analysis provides healthcare providers with a more comprehensive framework to assess and identify fear of childbirth. Further research is needed to develop a suitable instrument that covers all the attributes and dimensions of this concept and assesses its severity.

Impact

This conceptual analysis provides a comprehensive insight into the phenomenon of fear of childbirth. This will help family members, healthcare providers and policymakers to identify the psychological needs of pregnant women and improve the quality of antenatal care.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable as no new data were generated.
The role of evidence‐based practice and empathy in shared decision‐making attitudes among newly graduated nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: An Xin , Zhang Dan , Wang Qiushuang , Shi Xinhui , Wang Mengdi , Wang Yingzhe , Ma Jinghua
Published: May 2024

Aim

Examine the levels of variables and explore drivers associated with shared decision‐making attitudes among newly graduated nurses.

Design

This was a descriptive and cross‐sectional study.

Methods

From August 2022 to October 2022, a cross‐section of 216 newly graduated nurses from four comprehensive A‐level hospitals in northern China was recruited using convenience sampling. Newly graduated nurses are generally defined as nurses with a service period of six months to one year. Data were collected using an online questionnaire support platform, including the Nursing Shared Decision‐Making Attitude scale, Jefferson scale of Empathy‐Health profession students and the Health Sciences Evidence‐Based Practice questionnaire. All data were analysed descriptively, and correlational analysis and hierarchical regression were used to make identical connections between variables.

Results

Newly graduated nurses supported shared decision‐making. Perceptions of shared decision‐making were correlated with the experiences of empathy and evidence‐based practice. Additionally, perspective‐taking of empathy and beliefs, and the ability to search for and apply existing scientific findings of evidence‐based practice had a significant impact on more positive attitudes.

Conclusion

The survey showed that acceptance of shared decision‐making was positive among newly graduated nurses. Clinical nursing managers and teachers should pay attention to cultivating the evidence‐based practice and empathy of newly graduated nurses to adopt an optimistic attitude towards shared decision‐making in the long term.

Impact

The survey addresses attitudes of shared decision‐making among newly graduated nurses and determines whether empathy and evidence‐based practice has an impact on it. The main finding is that newly graduated nurses have an optimistic outlook on the implementation of shared decision‐making. This survey showed that empathy and evidence‐based practice competencies are associated with shared decision‐making attitudes among newly graduated nurses. The results of this survey have an impact on educational institutions and hospitals in the form of recommendations. Several training programmes on empathy and evidence‐based practice can help adopt the shared decision‐making attitudes of newly graduated nurses.

Patient or public contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Plateau‐linear reaction norm model analysis of number born alive in purebred Landrace pigs using meteorological data in Japan
Authors: Ogawa Shinichiro , Okamura Toshihiro , Fukuzawa Yo , Nishio Motohide , Ishii Kazuo , Kimata Makoto , Tomiyama Masamitsu , Satoh Masahiro
Published: May 2024

We performed a plateau‐linear reaction norm model (RNM) analysis of number born alive (NBA) in purebred Landrace pigs, where breeding value changes according to maximum temperature at mating day, using public meteorological observation data in Japan. We analysed 52,668 NBA records obtained from 10,320 Landrace sows. Pedigree data contained 99,201 animals. Off‐farm daily temperature data at the nearest weather station from each of the farms were downloaded from the Japan Meteorological Agency website. A plateau‐linear RNM analysis based on daily maximum temperature on mating day (threshold temperature of 16.6°C) was performed. The percentage of the records with daily maximum temperatures at mating days of ≤16.6, ≥25.0, ≥30.0 and ≥35.0°C were 34.3%, 33.6%, 14.0% and 0.8%, respectively. The value of Akaike's information criterion for the plateau‐linear RNM was lower than that for a simple repeatability model (RM). With the plateau‐linear RNM, estimated value of heritability ranged from 0.14 to 0.15, while that from the RM analysis was 0.15. Additive genetic correlation between intercept and slope terms was estimated to be −0.52 from the plateau‐linear RNM analysis. Estimated additive genetic correlations were >0.9 between NBA at different temperatures ranging from 16.6 to 37.6°C. For the 10,320 sows, average values of prediction reliability of the intercept and slope terms for breeding values in the plateau‐linear RNM were 0.47 and 0.16, respectively. Increasing weight for slope term in linear selection index could bring positive genetic gain in the slope part, but prediction accuracy would decrease. Our results imply that genetically improving heat tolerance in sows reared in Japan focusing on NBA using RNM is possible, while RNM is more complex to implement and interpret. Therefore, further study should be encouraged to make genetic improvement for heat tolerance in sows more efficient.
The world's longest lasting VVI pacemaker device for over 40 years
Authors: Papasteriadis Evangelos , Margos Nikolaos Panagiotis
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Implantable permanent pacemaker function is supported by their energy sources for a mean period of 8.8–12.4 years. We previously published this case of a patient with a normally functioning VVI pacemaker, 31 years after implantation.

Methods and Results

In this report, we state that the device is still functioning normally 40 years after implantation. The most recent device interrogation revealed pacing threshold of 0.9 V/0.5 ms. Holter monitoring for 24 hours recorded a total of 98.707 beats with 97.78% paced beats, without any indication of pacemaker malfunction and with stable heart rate at 70–71 bpm.

Conclusion

Most patients with implantable devices have the appropriate follow‐up and settings of low energy consumption. Manufacturing companies should focus on prolonging device longevity, to produce future devices with higher energy capacity.
Polarized M2 macrophages induced by glycosylated nano‐hydroxyapatites activate bone regeneration in periodontitis therapy
Authors: Qiao Dan , Cheng Shuyu , Song Shiyuan , Zhang Wen , Chen Bin , Yan Fuhua , Zhang Yangheng
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate the association between periodontal macrophage polarization states and the alveolar bone levels, and to assess whether glycosylated nano‐hydroxyapatites (GHANPs) could improve bone regeneration in periodontitis by inducing macrophage M2 polarization.

Materials and Methods

The change of macrophage polarization state in inflammatory periodontal tissues (with bone loss) was examined using clinical gingival samples. The relationship between macrophage phenotype and bone level in periodontal bone loss and repair was evaluated using a mouse periodontitis model. The effect of GHANPs on macrophage polarization was assessed by the in vitro model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated inflammation. The polarization‐related markers were detected by immunofluorescence staining, real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analysis. The therapeutic effect of GHANPs on alveolar bone loss was explored in experimental periodontitis by histological staining and micro‐CT analysis.

Results

A lower macrophage M2/M1 ratio was observed in periodontitis‐affected human gingival tissues. The results of animal experiments demonstrated a positive correlation between a lower Arg‐1/iNOS ratio and accelerated alveolar bone loss; also, the proportion of Arg‐1‐positive macrophages increased during bone repair and regeneration. The administration of GHANPs partially restored M2 macrophage polarization after LPS stimulation. GHANPs increased alveolar bone repair and regeneration in experimental periodontitis induced by ligation, potentially related to their macrophage M2 transition regulation.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate that the induction of macrophage M2 polarization can be considered a viable approach for enhancing inflammatory bone repair. Additionally, GHANPs show potential in the clinical treatment of periodontitis.
Health, behavior, and social outcomes among offspring of parents with criminal convictions: a register‐based study from Sweden
Authors: Järvinen Aurora , Lichtenstein Paul , D'Onofrio Brian M. , Fazel Seena , Kuja‐Halkola Ralf , Latvala Antti
Published: May 2024

Background

There is currently insufficient understanding of the health and behavior of children whose parents engage in criminal behavior. We examined associations between parental criminal convictions and wide range of offspring health, behavioral, and social outcomes by age 18 in a large, national sample, aiming to get a comprehensive picture of the risks among children of offending parents.

Methods

We studied 1,013,385 individuals born in Sweden between 1987 and 1995, and their parents. Using data from several longitudinal nationwide registers, we investigated parental convictions and 85 offspring outcomes until the end of 2013, grouped into birth‐related conditions, psychiatric and somatic disorders, accidents and injuries, mortality, school achievement, violent victimization, and criminality. Cox proportional hazards regression and logistic regression models were used to examine the associations. The role of genetic factors in intergenerational associations was studied in children‐of‐siblings analyses. We also examined the co‐occurrence of multiple outcomes using Poisson regression.

Results

A total of 223,319 (22.0%) individuals had one parent convicted and 31,241 (3.1%) had both parents convicted during the first 18 years of their life. The strongest associations were found between parental convictions and offspring behavioral problems, substance use disorders, poor school achievement, violent victimization, and criminality, with an approximately 2 to 2.5‐fold increased risk in children with one convicted parent and 3‐ to 4‐fold increased risk in children with two convicted parents. The risks were particularly elevated among children of incarcerated parents with a history of violent convictions. The associations appeared to be at least partly explained by genetic influences. Parental convictions were also associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing multiple outcomes.

Conclusions

Our findings help to calibrate the risks of a wide range of adverse outcomes associated with parental convictions and may be used to guide prevention efforts and identify key areas for future research.
Does Timed Testing Affect the Interpretation of Efficiency Scores?—A GLMM Analysis of Reading Components
Authors: Goldhammer Frank , Kroehne Ulf , Hahnel Carolin , Naumann Johannes , De Boeck Paul
Published: May 2024

The efficiency of cognitive component skills is typically assessed with speeded performance tests. Interpreting only effective ability or effective speed as efficiency may be challenging because of the within‐person dependency between both variables (speed‐ability tradeoff, SAT). The present study measures efficiency as effective ability conditional on speed by controlling speed experimentally. Item‐level time limits control the stimulus presentation time and the time window for responding (timed condition). The overall goal was to examine the construct validity of effective ability scores obtained from untimed and timed condition by comparing the effects of theory‐based item properties on item difficulty. If such effects exist, the scores reflect how well the test‐takers were able to cope with the theory‐based requirements. A German subsample from PISA 2012 completed two reading component skills tasks (i.e., word recognition and semantic integration) with and without item‐level time limits. Overall, the included linguistic item properties showed stronger effects on item difficulty in the timed than the untimed condition. In the semantic integration task, item properties explained the time required in the untimed condition. The results suggest that effective ability scores in the timed condition better reflect how well test‐takers were able to cope with the theoretically relevant task demands.
Key stakeholders' perspectives on the development of an early dietary phosphate self‐management strategy for children and young people with chronic kidney disease stages 1–3: A modified Delphi consensus process
Authors: Pugh Pearl , Hemingway Pippa , Christian Martin , Higginbottom Gina
Published: May 2024

Background

An early dietary phosphate intervention (EPI) can provide vital medical benefits supporting self‐management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in childhood.

Objective

To utilise expert consensus to provide early modelling for an EPI to guide clinical practice across a paediatric renal network.

Methods

Forty‐eight statements across six domains were constructed following a systematic review and semi‐structured interviews with children and young people (CYP), parents and healthcare professionals (HCP). A three‐round online Delphi survey with parents and paediatric renal multi‐disciplinary healthcare experts was undertaken.

Results

Twenty‐one experts agreed on 56 statements over three Delphi rounds. Statements were accepted in all six domains: definition of an EPI (2), rationale (12), intended users (3), delivery (14) (when [1], where [3], who [2], how [8]), other considerations (16) and potential concerns (9).

Conclusions

Consensus was reached on a definition and a set of guiding principles, providing some early modelling for implementation and future research on the development of an EPI strategy for CYP with CKD.
Risk factors and lipid metabolism characteristics of early‐onset male androgenetic alopecia: A pilot study
Authors: Wang Shuqin , Xu Senmao , Wang Sui , Fang Wenhao , Shi Wanrong
Published: May 2024

Background

Male androgenetic alopecia (MAA) is a multifactorial disease, with patients presenting at a younger age, which is a risk factor for many metabolic diseases.

Aims

To explore the risk factors associated with early‐onset of MAA and its metabolic characteristics.

Methods

Forty patients with MAA and 45 healthy controls were collected. The serum levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), total testosterone (TT), uric acid (UA), and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) were measured. Meanwhile, lipid metabolites were detected by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS).

Results

37.50% MAA patients had metabolic syndrome, compared to 17.78% in control group (p < 0.05). The levels of HDL‐C, UA, and 25(OH)D were decreased in patients with MAA compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the level of TT between the two groups. Additionally, there were no significant differences in the levels of HDL‐C, UA, 25(OH)D, and TT among different grades of hair loss (p > 0.05). The lipid profile of early‐onset MAA differed significantly from healthy controls. In early‐onset MAA, the levels of ceramide (Cer) and sphingomyelin (SM) were significantly lower. Cer(d38:5) and TG(15:0/18:1/18:1) may be the biomarkers.

Conclusion

Low HDL‐C, UA, and 25(OH)D may be the independent risk factors for early‐onset MAA. Abnormal lipid metabolism was observed in early‐onset MAA, wherein Cer and SM may serve as protective factors.
MASLD and MASH at the crossroads of hepatology trials and cardiorenal metabolic trials
Authors: Zannad Faiez , Sanyal Arun J. , Butler Javed , Ferreira João Pedro , Girerd Nicolas , Miller Veronica , Pandey Ambarish , Parikh Chirag R. , Ratziu Vlad , Younossi Zobair M. , Harrison Stephen A.
Published: May 2024

Steatotic liver disease (SLD) is a worldwide public health problem, causing considerable morbidity and mortality. Patients with SLD are at increased risk for major adverse cardiovascular (CV) events, type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease. Conversely, patients with cardiometabolic conditions have a high prevalence of SLD. In addition to epidemiological evidence linking many of these conditions, there is evidence of shared pathophysiological processes. In December 2022, a unique multi‐stakeholder, multi‐specialty meeting, called MOSAIC (Metabolic multi Organ Science Accelerating Innovation in Clinical Trials) was convened to foster collaboration across metabolic, hepatology, nephrology and CV disorders. One of the goals of the meeting was to consider approaches to drug development that would speed regulatory approval of treatments for multiple disorders by combining liver and cardiorenal endpoints within a single study. Non‐invasive tests, including biomarkers and imaging, are needed in hepatic and cardiorenal trials. They can be used as trial endpoints, to enrich trial populations, to diagnose and risk stratify patients and to assess treatment efficacy and safety. Although they are used in proof of concept and phase 2 trials, they are often not acceptable for regulatory approval of therapies. The challenge is defining the optimal combination of biomarkers, imaging and morbidity/mortality outcomes and ensuring that they are included in future trials while minimizing the burden on patients, trialists and trial sponsors. This paper provides an overview of some of the wide array of CV, liver and kidney measurements that were discussed at the MOSAIC meeting.
Effects of mechanical loading on matrix homeostasis and differentiation potential of periodontal ligament cells: A scoping review
Authors: Pakpahan Novena Dameria , Kyawsoewin Maythwe , Manokawinchoke Jeeranan , Termkwancharoen Chutimon , Egusa Hiroshi , Limraksasin Phoonsuk , Osathanon Thanaphum
Published: May 2024

Various mechanical loadings, including mechanical stress, orthodontics forces, and masticatory force, affect the functions of periodontal ligament cells. Regulation of periodontal tissue destruction, formation, and differentiation functions are crucial processes for periodontal regeneration therapy. Numerous studies have reported that different types of mechanical loading play a role in maintaining periodontal tissue matrix homeostasis, and osteogenic differentiation of the periodontal ligament cells. This scoping review aims to evaluate the studies regarding the effects of various mechanical loadings on the secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, regulation of the balance between formation and destruction of periodontal tissue matrix, osteogenic differentiation, and multiple differentiation functions of the periodontal ligament. An electronic search for this review has been conducted on two databases; MEDLINE via PubMed and SCOPUS. Study selection criteria included original research written in English that reported the effects of different mechanical loadings on matrix homeostasis and differentiation potential of periodontal ligament cells. The final 204 articles were mainly included in the present scoping review. Mechanical forces of the appropriate magnitude, duration, and pattern have a positive influence on the secretion of ECM components such as collagen, as well as regulate the secretion of matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases. Additionally, these forces regulate a balance between osteoblastic and osteoclast differentiation. Conversely, incorrect mechanical loadings can lead to abnormal formation and destruction of both soft and hard tissue. This review provides additional insight into how mechanical loadings impact ECM homeostasis and multiple differentiation functions of periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs), thus making it valuable for regenerative periodontal treatment. In combination with advancing technologies, the utilization of ECM components, application of different aspects of mechanical force, and differentiation potential of PDLCs could bring potential benefits to future periodontal regeneration therapy.
A knot of hybrids: Differentiating Asian knotweeds in North‐Eastern France using genetic, cytological, and morphological data
Authors: Jugieau Enzo , Talmot Victor , Staentzel Cybill , Noir Sandra , Hardion Laurent
Published: May 2024

The two invasive Reynoutria species, Reynoutria japonica var. japonica and Reynoutria sachalinensis, and their hybrid Reynoutria x bohemica are often misidentified by managers and nonspecialists. The taxonomic confusions are all the more exacerbated by the infraspecific variability of introduced populations in terms of morphology, genetic diversity, and ploidy level. We resolved the identity of North‐Eastern French invasive populations using 4582 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from a RADseq analysis, DNA contents estimated by flow cytometry, and 12 vegetative morphometric variables. The SNPs supported only one single genotype for R. japonica over 11 localities, while the nine localities of Reynoutria x bohemica were represented by one genotype each. Estimation of genome size using DAPI staining and flow cytometry revealed only octoploid cytotypes for R. japonica and hexaploid cytotypes for R. x bohemica, whereas R. sachalinensis was represented by tetraploid and hexaploid cytotypes. Among morphometric variables, no single one allows for a clear differentiation of the three taxa. We propose a combination of characters to easily and quickly identify these three invasive taxa based on six vegetative criteria including leaf and apex length, as well as leaf shape, leaf base, and apex shape, and the extrafloral nectaries on the node.
Phylogenetic diversity and regionalization in the temperate arid zone
Authors: Folk Ryan A. , Maassoumi Aliasghar A. , Siniscalchi Carolina M. , Kates Heather R. , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Belitz Michael B. , Guralnick Robert P.
Published: May 2024

Astragalus (Fabaceae) is astoundingly diverse in temperate, cold arid regions of Earth, positioning this group as a model clade for investigating the distribution of plant diversity in the face of environmental challenges. Here, we identify the spatial distribution of diversity and endemism in Astragalus using species distribution models for 752 species and a phylogenetic tree comprising 847 species. We integrated these to map centers of species richness (SR) and relative phylogenetic diversity (RPD) and used randomization approaches to investigate centers of endemism. We also used clustering methods to identify phylogenetic regionalizations. We then assembled predictor variables of current climate conditions to test environmental factors predicting these phylogenetic diversity results, especially temperature and precipitation seasonality. We find that SR centers are distributed globally at temperate middle latitudes in arid regions, but the Mediterranean Basin is the most important center of RPD. Endemism centers also occur globally, but Iran represents a key endemic area with a concentration of both paleo‐ and neoendemism. Phylogenetic regionalization recovered an east‐west gradient in Eurasia and an amphitropical disjunction across North and South America; American phyloregions are overall most closely related to east and central Asia. SR, RPD, and lineage turnover are driven mostly by precipitation and seasonality, but endemism is driven primarily by diurnal temperature variation. Endemism and regionalization results point to western Asia and especially Iran as a biogeographic gateway between Europe and Asia. RPD and endemism highlight the importance of temperature and drought stress in determining plant diversity and endemism centers.
A new portmanteau test for predictive regression models with possible embedded endogeneity
Authors: Rao Yao , Fan Yawen , Ao Huimin , Liu Xiaohui
Published: May 2024

In the widely used predictive regression model, any possible serial correlation in innovations leads to estimation bias and statistical inference distortions. Hence, it is important to pretest the existence of such serial correlation. Nevertheless, in the presence of embedded endogeneity, which is a common problem in the predictive regression setting, traditional serial correlation tests such as Box–Pierce (BP) and Ljung–Box (LB) tests are found to perform poorly. Motivated by this, we develop a new portmanteau test in this article as a pretest for serial correlation in predictive regression under possible embedded endogeneity. This test is based on the sample splitting idea and the jackknife empirical likelihood method. The asymptotic distribution of the proposed test has been derived, and the Monte Carlo simulations confirm good finite sample performances. As an illustration, we apply our proposed test in pretesting the serial correlation in predictive regression, where financial variables are used to predict the excess return of S&P 500.
Earthquake damage detection and level classification method for wooden houses based on convolutional neural networks and onsite photos
Authors: Wu Kai , Matsuoka Masashi , Oshio Haruki
Published: May 2024

The results of earthquake damage certification (EDC) surveys are the basis of support measures for improving the lives of disaster victims. To address issues such as a limited workforce to perform EDC surveys and difficulties in judging the level of damage, a damage detection and level classification method for wooden houses using multiple convolutional neural network models is proposed. The proposed method, including detection, filtering, and classification models, was trained and validated based on photographs collected from EDC surveys in Uki City, Kumamoto Prefecture. Then, a software system, which deployed these models, was developed for the onsite EDC surveyors to detect damages shown in the photographs of the surveyed house and classify damage levels. The test results based on 32 target buildings indicate that the detection model achieved high recall in detecting damage. Moreover, the redundant detected regions can be precisely filtered by the filtering model. Finally, the classification model achieved relatively high overall accuracy in classifying the damage level.
Somatic mutational profiling and clinical impact of driver genes in Latin‐Iberian medulloblastomas: Towards precision medicine
Authors: Barateiro Letícia Ganem Rillo Paz , de Oliveira Cavagna Rodrigo , dos Reis Mariana Bisarro , de Paula Flávia Escremim , Teixeira Gustavo Ramos , Moreno Daniel Antunes , Bonatelli Murilo , Santana Iara , Saggioro Fabiano Pinto , Neder Luciano , Stavale João Norberto , Malheiros Suzana Maria Fleury , Garcia‐Rivello Hernan , Christiansen Silvia , Nunes Susana , da Costa Maria João Gil , Pinheiro Jorge , Júnior Carlos Almeida , Mançano Bruna Minniti , Reis Rui Manuel
Published: May 2024

Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most prevalent malignant brain tumor in children, known for its heterogeneity and treatment‐associated toxicity, and there is a critical need for new therapeutic targets. We analyzed the somatic mutation profile of 15 driver genes in 69 Latin‐Iberian molecularly characterized medulloblastomas using the Illumina TruSight Tumor 15 panel. We classified the variants based on their clinical impact and oncogenicity. Among the patients, 66.7% were MBSHH, 13.0% MBWNT, 7.3% MBGrp3, and 13.0% MBGrp4. Among the 63 variants found, 54% were classified as Tier I/II and 31.7% as oncogenic/likely oncogenic. We observed 33.3% of cases harboring at least one mutation. TP53 (23.2%, 16/69) was the most mutated gene, followed by PIK3CA (5.8%, 4/69), KIT (4.3%, 3/69), PDGFRA (2.9%, 2/69), EGFR (1.4%, 1/69), ERBB2 (1.4%, 1/69), and NRAS (1.4%, 1/69). Approximately 41% of MBSHH tumors exhibited mutations, TP53 (32.6%) being the most frequently mutated gene. Tier I/II and oncogenic/likely oncogenic TP53 variants were associated with relapse, progression, and lower survival rates. Potentially actionable variants in the PIK3CA and KIT genes were identified. Latin‐Iberian medulloblastomas, particularly the MBSHH, exhibit higher mutation frequencies than other populations. We corroborate the TP53 mutation status as an important prognostic factor, while PIK3CA and KIT are potential therapeutic targets.
Skeletonema marinoi ecotypes show specific habitat‐related responses to fluctuating light supporting high potential for growth under photobioreactor light regime
Authors: Volpe Charlotte , Nymark Marianne , Andersen Tom , Winge Per , Lavaud Johann , Vadstein Olav
Published: May 2024

Diatoms are a diverse group of phytoplankton usually dominating areas characterized by rapidly shifting light conditions. Because of their high growth rates and interesting biochemical profile, their biomass is considered for various commercial applications. This study aimed at identifying strains with superior growth in a photobioreactor (PBR) by screening the natural intraspecific diversity of ecotypes isolated from different habitats. We investigated the effect of PBR light fluctuating on a millisecond scale (FL, simulating the light in a PBR) on 19 ecotypes of the diatom Skeletonema marinoi isolated from the North Sea–Baltic Sea area.

We compare growth, pigment ratios, phylogeny, photo‐physiological variables and photoacclimation strategies between all strains and perform qPCR and absorption spectra analysis on a subset of strains.

Our results show that the ecotypes responded differently to FL, and have contrasting photo‐physiological and photoprotective strategies. The strains from Kattegat performed better in FL, and shared common photoacclimation and photoprotection strategies that are the results of adaptation to the specific light climate of the Kattegat area.

The strains that performed better with FL conditions had a high light (HL)‐acclimated phenotype coupled with unique nonphotochemical quenching features. Based on their characteristics, three strains were identified as good candidates for growth in PBRs.
Echoes of silence
Authors: Laver Sharon
Published: May 2024

Communication is an integral part of nursing practice—with patients and their relatives, other nurses and members of the healthcare team, and ancillary staff. Through interaction with the ‘other’, language and silence creates and recreates social realities. Acceptance, rejection or modification of social realities depends on what is expressed and by whom. Narratives that are offered can tell of some experiences and not others. Some nurses choose to be silent while others are silenced. In nursing situations recognising and allowing silence to speak is a challenging but uniquely personal experience that embraces reflection in and on experiences, practice and self as a person and a professional. If enabled and truly heard, silence can speak more loudly than the hubbub of daily practice, allowing us to collectively question and challenge inherent assumptions and biases as professionals, and as a profession. Through a microcosm of Newly Graduated Nurses' lived experiences of nursing situations and expressions of silence individuals' discomfort and private efforts to ascribe meaning to experiences are reflected on. Returning to silence is to return to a constant process of professional transformation that can enable ways of knowing and being that can reform our profession from within and enable us to cast off shackles that bind us to a shameful cultural underbelly.
Another nursing is possible: Ethics, political economies, and possibility in an uncertain world
Authors: Dillard‐Wright Jess
Published: May 2024

Overtaxed by the realities laid bare in the pandemic, nursing has imminent decisions to make. The exigencies of pandemic times overextend a health care infrastructure already groaning under the weight of inequitable distribution of resources and care commodified for profit. We can choose to prioritise different values. Invoking philosopher of science Isbelle Stengers's manifesto for slow science, this is not the only nursing that is possible. With this paper, I pick up threads of nursing's historical ontology, drawing previous scholarship on the historical narratives nurses use to understand themselves. Peeling back nursing's myth to alternate points of origin allows me to consider alternate lines of flight, a speculative adventure in paths not taken but paths that exist nonetheless. I go on to examine what a collective ethic of nursing could be, when we make space for these alternate histories, considering the confluences and conflicts that enable nurses to care and those that inhibit them from doing so. The imperative for this lies in the central importance of the reproductive labour of nursing health care, which leads me to a critique of nursing's capitulation to the pressures of late stage capitalism. This is a problem with ethical and ontological implications both for nursing, and also for those who require nursing care, an imperative to think about the kinds of present/futures for health, care, and health care we might cocreate in collaboration and solidarity with the communities in which nurses are imbricated, shedding the trappings of neoliberalism. There is significant power in the vision and praxis of 28 million nurses and midwives worldwide. Our ethics can guide our imagination which can in turn create possibility. This kind of endeavour—that of dreams and imagination—leads us to what could be, if only we leap.
Food impaction on three‐dimensional printed models with periodontal ligament simulation
Authors: Truong Van Mai , Yi Yang‐Jin , Kim Ryan Jin Young , Park Young‐Seok
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to evaluate food impaction on three‐dimensional (3D) printed models with periodontal ligament simulation.

Materials and Methods

Based on a commercial typodont pair, 3D maxillary and mandibular models were created with no teeth and with tooth sockets that were 1 mm wider than the original ones from 24 to 27 or 34 to 37 for periodontal ligament simulation with vinyl polysiloxane impression material. In total, 35 pairs of 7 combinations, including maxillary/mandibular typodonts in occlusion with maxillary/mandibular 3D models with/without a distal gap of canines on 3D models (tooth 23 or 33) were mounted on hinge articulators and divided into seven groups (n = 5). Each sample experienced the same manual chewing simulation on a customized device. The proximal surfaces were photographed to measure the percentage of food impaction area using ImageJ software.

Results

Group with fixed maxillary and mandibular teeth showed more food impaction than other groups with significant differences in the average of maxilla and the average of all proximal areas.

Conclusion

The flexibility of the periodontal ligament and the degree of freedom of the teeth in their sockets may contribute to the extent of food impaction in proximal spaces.
Far‐UVC (222 nm) irradiation effectively inactivates ssRNA, dsRNA, ssDNA, and dsDNA viruses as compared to germicidal UVC (254 nm)
Authors: Monika  , Madugula Santhosh Kumar , Kondabagil Kiran , Kunwar Ambarish
Published: May 2024

Ultraviolet‐C (UVC) irradiation is being used as an effective approach for the disinfection of pathogenic viruses present in air, surfaces, and water. Recently, far‐UVC radiation (222 nm) emitted by KrCl* (krypton‐chloride) excimer lamps have been recommended for disinfecting high‐risk public spaces to reduce the presence and transmission of infectious viruses owing to limited human health exposure risks as compared to germicidal UVC (254 nm). In this study, the UVC inactivation performances of individual filtered KrCl* excimer lamp (222 nm) and germicidal UVC lamp (254 nm) were determined against four viruses, bacteriophages MS2, Phi6, M13, and T4, having different genome compositions (ssRNA, dsRNA, ssDNA and dsDNA, respectively) and shapes (i.e., spherical (Phi6), linear (M13), and icosahedral (MS2 and T4)). Here, the disinfection efficacies of filtered KrCl* excimer lamp (222 nm) and germicidal UVC lamp (254 nm) were evaluated for highly concentrated virus droplets that mimic the virus‐laden droplets released from the infected person and deposited on surfaces as fomites. Filtered KrCl* excimer (222 nm) showed significantly better inactivation against all viruses having different genome compositions and structures compared to germicidal UVC (254 nm). The obtained sensitivity against the filtered KrCl* excimer (222 nm) was found to be in the order, T4 > M13 > Phi6 > MS2 whereas for the germicidal UVC (254 nm) it was T4 > M13 > MS2 > Phi6. These results provide a strong basis to promote the use of filtered KrCl* excimer lamps (222 nm) in disinfecting contagious viruses and to limit the associated disease spread in public places and other high‐risk areas.
Transcriptome and functional analyses of phenotypic plasticity in sea grape Caulerpa okamurae
Authors: Kang Jiwon , Kwak Yong Sung , Kim Eun‐jeong , Gwon Yeongjin , Choi Han Gil , Eyun Seong‐il
Published: May 2024

Caulerpa is a marine green macroalga distinguished by a large single cell with multiple nuclei. It also exhibits remarkable morphological intraspecies variations, in response to diverse environmental types. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenotypic plasticity remain poorly understood. In this work, we compare the transcriptomes of Caulerpa okamurae Weber Bosse, 1897 displaying altered phenotypes of cultivation and natural phenotypes and investigate significantly regulated genes and their biological functions using differential expression analyses. We observe light‐harvesting complex upregulation and cellular framework stability downregulation in altered phenotypes compared to the natural phenotypes. Intertidal macrophytes reduce light capture to avoid photodamage and regulate their morphology to protect against wave damage. In contrast, the lower light conditions and the cultivation environment augment light capture and increase a morphology prioritizing light trapping. Moreover, the addition of simulated wave‐sweeping stimuli induces a return to the natural morphology under high‐light conditions, showing how mechanical stress affects morphological organization in C. okamurae. We provide detailed gene expression patterns in C. okamurae under varying light intensities and water conditions, suggesting a distinct influence on its morphological traits.
Assessment of Dar es Salaam's resilience to climate change disasters using the Climate Disaster Resilience Index (CDRI)
Authors: Mkasimongwa Simon William , Fakour Hoda , Hassani Hussein Juma , Sultan Basma Abdulla , Lai Hsin‐Chih
Published: May 2024

Climate change is becoming an increasingly significant issue in Africa, and the need for climate resilience assessment has intensified. Dar es Salam is one of Africa's emerging megacities. With a population of over seven million, which continues to grow, there is an urgent need to understand the city's ability to deal with natural disasters. The Climate Disaster Resilience Index (CDRI) was used in this study to assess the city's ability to withstand and cope with climatic hazards. The Index was quantified using sets of dimensions (social, physical, economic, natural, and institutional), with various parameters indicating the city's abilities, strengths, and vulnerabilities to potential climate‐related disasters. Despite being moderately resilient to climate change disasters, the results of our study indicate that the city's economic and institutional features obtained the lowest scores and the least resilience level. The study's findings provide a perspective on aspects of the city management sectors in terms of resilience and which should be given greater consideration in order to strengthen the city's current and future resilience.