bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Derivation of a clinical decision rule to exclude cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in emergency department patients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Asha Stephen Edward , Prageshan Janani , Seidman Zachariah
Published: November 2023

Objective

To derive a clinical decision rule to exclude cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) in the ED. A secondary aim was to derive a rule that incorporated clinical parameters and the non‐contrast CT brain.

Methods

Single‐centre, retrospective cohort study. Patients suspected of CVST were identified from the radiology database for CT/MR venograms. Clinical features included in the rule were determined by literature review. The presence of these features in participants was determined by chart review. Variables were tested for univariate association with CVST using logistic regression. Variable selection was accomplished using a forward‐stepwise process, calculating the sensitivity/specificity of a rule containing the variable of most significance, then repeating the process after adding the next most significant variable.

Results

Forty‐five out of 912 participants had confirmed CVST. The primary clinical rule was answering ‘no’ to all the following: any prothrombotic risk factor, age ≥54 years, confusion: sensitivity 95.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 84.9–99.5%), specificity 40.9% (95% CI 37.6–44.2%), negative predictive value 99.4% (95% CI 97.9–99.9%) and positive predictive value 7.7% (95% CI 7.1–8.3%). The rule classified 39.5% of participants as CVST ruled out. The rule incorporating the non‐contrast CT brain was answering ‘no’ to all the following: abnormal non‐contrast CT brain, any prothrombotic risk‐factor, age ≥54 years, confusion: sensitivity 100.0% (95% CI 91.6–100.0%), specificity 42.0% (95% CI 38.7–45.4%), negative predictive value 100.0% (95% CI not calculated) and positive predictive value 7.8% (95% CI 7.4–8.2%). The rule classified 40.0% of participants as CVST ruled out.

Conclusions

A clinical decision rule was derived to rule out CVST. These results require validation before adoption into clinical practice.
Modelling a two‐stream emergency department segregation and admission system from COVID‐19 early rapid antigen testing: A pilot study
Authors: Johnston Amy , Wong Andy , Appo Casey , Eley Robert , Staib Andrew
Published: November 2023

Objective

Many factors influence patient flow through an ED, including streaming, treatment spaces and staff resources. This pilot study explored and compared real time patient flow using a single‐stream system versus varying configurations of possible two‐stream systems using computer simulation.

Methods

Simulation modelling was used to assess the delay in treatment of a rapid‐antigen‐tested‐based, two‐stream model for patient flow through ED during the peak phase of the COVID pandemic.

Results

Modelling two‐stream configuration for all patients (minimum time to be seen for both COVID‐positive and COVID‐negative patients) showed that in the case study ED, a two‐stream system and linked changes in bed configuration for managing the risks of infection can impact delays in treatment.

Conclusions

Data‐driven modelling within specific clinical settings can inform the (in)efficiency of patient flow processes and help clinicians and managers make evidence‐based decisions about patient transition through EDs. This can assist with reconfiguration of ED patient streaming particularly during periods of unique need, such as the recent COVID‐19 pandemic.
Morbid obesity influences the nocturnal electrocardiogram wave and interval durations among suspected sleep apnea patients
Authors: Kainulainen Samu , Suni Aaron , Lipponen Jukka A. , Kulkas Antti , Duce Brett , Korkalainen Henri , Nikkonen Sami , Sillanmäki Saara
Published: November 2023

Background

Obesity is a global issue with a major impact on cardiovascular health. This study explores how obesity influences nocturnal cardiac electrophysiology in suspected obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients.

Methods

We randomly selected 12 patients from each of the five World Health Organization body mass index (BMI) classifications groups (ntotal = 60) while keeping the group's age and sex matched. We evaluated 1965 nocturnal electrocardiography (ECG) samples (10 s) using modified lead II recorded during normal saturation conditions. R‐wave peaks were detected and confirmed using dedicated software, with the exclusion of ventricular extrasystoles and artifacts. The duration of waves and intervals was manually marked. The average electric potential graphs were computed for each segment. Thresholds for abnormal ECG waveforms were P‐wave > 120 ms, PQ interval > 200 ms, QRS complex > 120 ms for, and QTc > 440 ms.

Results

Obesity was significantly (p < .05) associated with prolonged conduction times. Compared to the normal weight (18.5 ≤ BMI < 25) group, the morbidly obese patients (BMI ≥ 40) had a significantly longer P‐wave duration (101.7 vs. 117.2 ms), PQ interval (175.8 vs. 198.0 ms), QRS interval (89.9 vs. 97.7 ms), and QTc interval (402.8 vs. 421.2 ms). We further examined ECG waveform prolongations related to BMI. Compared to other patient groups, the morbidly obese patients had the highest number of ECG segments with PQ interval (44% of the ECG samples), QRS duration (14%), and QTc duration (20%) above the normal limits.

Conclusions

Morbid obesity predisposes patients to prolongation of cardiac conduction times. This might increase the risk of arrhythmias, stroke, and even sudden cardiac death.
Effects of alpha lipoic acid treatment during in vitro maturation on the development of porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos
Authors: Himaki Takehiro , Hano Kazuki
Published: November 2023

Oxidative stress influences the embryo production efficiency in vitro. We investigated the effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) treatment during the in vitro maturation (IVM) period on the porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryo production. After IVM, maturation rates of the 12.5‐ and 25‐μM ALA‐treated groups were not significantly different from those of the 0‐μM ALA‐treated group. Compared to those in the 0‐μM ALA‐treated group, the reactive oxygen species and glutathione levels were significantly decreased and increased, respectively, in the cytoplasm of matured oocytes in the 12.5–50‐μM ALA‐treated groups. Apoptosis rate in cumulus cells after IVM was significantly lower in the 12.5–50‐μM ALA‐treated groups than in the 0‐μM ALA‐treated group. Blastocyst formation rate was significantly higher in parthenogenetic oocytes treated with 12.5‐μM ALA than in the 0‐, 25‐, and 50‐μM ALA‐treated groups. Similarly, in SCNT embryos, the 12.5‐μM ALA‐treated group showed a significantly higher blastocyst formation rate than the 0‐μM ALA‐treated group. Apoptosis rate in SCNT blastocysts was significantly decreased by 12.5‐μM ALA treatment. The results showed that treatment with 12.5‐μM ALA during IVM improves porcine SCNT embryo development and partial quality.
Relation between postpartum calf‐licking behavior and agonistic behavior against handlers by primiparous beef cows
Authors: Yamada Shiho , Ninomiya Shigeru
Published: November 2023

Maternal protective behavior in cattle husbandry settings is typically manifested as agonistic behavior against farm staff handling the calves. Investigating factors related to agonistic behavior of cows is important. Agonistic behaviors of 30 primiparous cows against farm staff handling their calves during the immediate postpartum period were observed using continuous recording. Relations between this agonistic behavior and calf‐licking behavior were also analyzed for 2 h postpartum. Agonistic behavior was exhibited by 11 cows: 10 first displayed it during the first hour postpartum, whereas one displayed it during the second hour postpartum. Cows showing agonistic behavior spent a significantly longer time engaged in licking behavior during the first 2 h postpartum than the cows not showing agonistic behavior (p < 0.05). Although cows exhibiting agonistic behavior were likely to exhibit more calf‐licking behavior, particularly during the first hour postpartum, than those not exhibiting agonistic behavior (p = 0.08), no difference was found in the proportion of time used for calf‐licking during the second hour postpartum (p = 0.61). Results suggest an association between agonistic behavior against humans and greater calf‐licking behavior in primiparous cows immediately postpartum.
Dietary puerarin supplementation improves immune function in the small intestines of oxidized oil‐challenged broilers
Authors: Zhou Hua , Yu Yingmei , Shi Xuan , Zou Tiande , Yang Lei , OuYang Jingxin , Bian Yinhao , Liu Yichun , Li Guanhong
Published: November 2023

Puerarin has possessed a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, little is known about the protective effects of puerarin on the oxidized oil‐induced injury. Here, we describe the anti‐inflammatory effects of puerarin in chickens. A total of 360 broilers were arranged in four treatments. Diets included two types of soybean oil (fresh or oxidized) and two levels of puerarin (0 or 750 mg/kg). Results showed that puerarin alleviated oxidized soybean oil‐induced intestinal immune injury by decreasing the expressions of HSP and pro‐inflammatory factor (P < 0.05) and enhancing the mRNA levels of anti‐inflammatory factor and CATH‐1 (P < 0.05) in broilers. Moreover, puerarin supplementation decreased the mRNA abundances of TLR4 and MyD88 (P < 0.05) and upregulated the expressions of A20 and SOCS‐1 (P < 0.05) in the small intestine of oxidized soybean oil‐challenged broilers. Collectively, this study demonstrates puerarin may be a potential nutrient supplement in the treatment of oxidized oil‐induced damage in poultry.
A physiological approach to renal clearance: From premature neonates to adults
Authors: Holford Nick , O'Hanlon Conor J. , Allegaert Karel , Anderson Brian , Falcão Amilcar , Simon Nicolas , Lo Yoke‐Lin , Thomson Alison H. , Sherwin Catherine M. , Jacqz‐Aigrain Evelyne , Llanos‐Paez Carolina , Hennig Stefanie , Mockus Linas , Kirkpatrick Carl
Published: November 2023

Aims

We propose using glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as the physiological basis for distinguishing components of renal clearance.

Methods

Gentamicin, amikacin and vancomycin are thought to be predominantly excreted by the kidneys. A mixed‐effects joint model of the pharmacokinetics of these drugs was developed, with a wide dispersion of weight, age and serum creatinine. A dataset created from 18 sources resulted in 27,338 drug concentrations from 9,901 patients. Body size and composition, maturation and renal function were used to describe differences in drug clearance and volume of distribution.

Results

This study demonstrates that GFR is a predictor of two distinct components of renal elimination clearance: (1) GFR clearance associated with normal GFR and (2) non‐GFR clearance not associated with normal GFR. All three drugs had GFR clearance estimated as a drug‐specific percentage of normal GFR (gentamicin 39%, amikacin 90% and vancomycin 57%). The total clearance (sum of GFR and non‐GFR clearance), standardized to 70 kg total body mass, 176 cm, male, renal function 1, was 5.58 L/h (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.50‐5.69) (gentamicin), 7.77 L/h (95% CI 7.26‐8.19) (amikacin) and 4.70 L/h (95% CI 4.61‐4.80) (vancomycin).

Conclusions

GFR provides a physiological basis for renal drug elimination. It has been used to distinguish two elimination components. This physiological approach has been applied to describe clearance and volume of distribution from premature neonates to elderly adults with a wide dispersion of size, body composition and renal function. Dose individualization has been implemented using target concentration intervention.
Debate: The prevention of psychosis in child and adolescent mental health services
Authors: Poletti Michele , Preti Antonio , Raballo Andrea
Published: November 2023

Psychopathological conditions in adolescence and young adulthood often result from an altered neurodevelopment already phenotypically expressed in childhood. Child and adolescent mental health services are ideally placed to intercept in the developmental trajectories of younger adolescents and contribute to the early detection of a risk for psychosis, as proposed by Salazar de Pablo and Arango (2023, Child and Adolescent Mental Health), opening a debate to which we contribute. The early detection of a specific risk for psychosis and of a broader risk for severe mental illness requires an understanding of the clinical staging of psychosis, neurodevelopmental antecedents of severe mental illness and of heterotypic trajectories between childhood phenotypes and adult disorders.
Two new compounds from endemic Centaurea paphlagonica (Bornm.) Wagenitz and their cytotoxic activities
Authors: Tüfekçi Ali Rıza , Demirtaş İbrahim , Akşit Hüseyin , Arslan Şevki , Kocabıyık Kübra , Zeybek Sibel , Ozen Tevfik , Köksal Ekrem
Published: November 2023

Centaurea paphlagonica (Bornm.) Wagenitz is an endemic plant in Turkey. Pyrocatechol, vanillic acid, 3,4‐dihydroxy benzoic acid, 5‐O‐caffeoylshikimic acid, tamarixetin, chlorogenic acid methyl ester, quercetin, 1,3‐dicaffeoylquinic acid, tamarixetin‐7‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, quercimetrin, daucosterin, paphlagonicanin B, tamarixetin‐7‐O‐β‐rutinoside, rutin, chlorogenic acid, isoorientin, orientin, 3‐O‐feruloylquinic acid, quercetagetin‐3‐methyl ether 6‐O‐β‐glucopyranoside, diosmetin 6‐C‐β‐glucopyranoside, quercetagetin 4′‐methyl ether 7‐O‐β‐glucopyranoside, paphlagonicanin A, nepetin, cirsiliol, desacylcynaropicrin, and 8α‐O‐(2′,3′‐dihydroxyisobutyryl) desacylcynaropicrin were isolated from both flower and aerial parts of C. paphlagonica. These compounds were identified using 1D and 2D NMR methods and ESI‐MS. The MTT assay assessed the antiproliferative activities of all isolated (known and new compounds) compounds on Caco‐2, LNCaP, A549, HeLa, and HEK‐293 cell lines. The 8α‐O‐(2′,3′‐dihydroxyisobutyryl) desacylcynaropicrin demonstrated the highest activity against CaCo‐2 and HeLa cancer cell lines.
Deep learning‐based automatic segmentation of bone graft material after maxillary sinus augmentation
Authors: Tao Baoxin , Xu Jiangchang , Gao Jie , He Shamin , Jiang Shuanglin , Wang Feng , Chen Xiaojun , Wu Yiqun
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To investigate the accuracy and reliability of deep learning in automatic graft material segmentation after maxillary sinus augmentation (SA) from cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images.

Materials and Methods

One hundred paired CBCT scans (a preoperative scan and a postoperative scan) were collected and randomly allocated to training (n = 82) and testing (n = 18) subsets. The ground truths of graft materials were labeled by three observers together (two experienced surgeons and a computer engineer). A deep learning model including a 3D V‐Net and a 3D Attention V‐Net was developed. The overall performance of the model was assessed through the testing data set. The comparative accuracy and inference time consumption of the model‐driven and manual segmentation (by two surgeons with 3 years of experience in dental implant surgery) were conducted on 10 CBCT scans from the test samples.

Results

The deep learning model had a Dice coefficient (Dice) of 90.36 ± 2.53%, a 95% Hausdorff distance (HD) of 1.59 ± 0.82 mm, and an average surface distance (ASD) of 0.38 ± 0.11 mm. The proposed model only needed 7.2 s, while the surgeon took 19.15 min on average to complete a segmentation task. The overall performances of the model were significantly superior to those of surgeons.

Conclusions

The proposed deep learning model yielded a more accurate and efficient performance of automatic segmentation of graft material after SA than that of the two surgeons. The proposed model could facilitate a powerful system for volumetric change evaluation, dental implant planning, and digital dentistry.
Hydrothermal vent fauna of the western Pacific Ocean: Distribution patterns and biogeographic networks
Authors: Tunnicliffe Verena , Chen Chong , Giguère Thomas , Rowden Ashley Alun , Watanabe Hiromi Kayama , Brunner Otis
Published: November 2023

Aim

Deep‐sea hydrothermal vent habitats support a low‐diversity fauna in which most species are unique to the ecosystem. To inform conservation planning around this vulnerable marine ecosystem, we examine species distributions over a wide area to assess the underlying beta‐diversity components and to examine biogeographic patterns. We assess the concept of a highly connected fauna that would repopulate areas of local extinction from distal locations.

Location

Western Pacific Ocean from Japan to New Zealand.

Methods

We assemble a database of 295 confirmed species records for 11 western Pacific vent systems. The SET beta‐diversity framework supports query of the distribution of pairwise pattern components in comparisons among vent systems. We build a network based in graph theory to examine connectivity among vent systems based on shared species similarity. A bipartite network revealed the relative role of each species in linkages among vent system nodes. We assess the importance of sampling bias and distance between systems.

Results

Overall, two‐thirds of the taxa are restricted to a single basin or arc. The Mariana Trough system has the highest corrected weighted endemism for vent‐specific species, followed by that of the Okinawa Trough. Species replacement is the dominant feature of beta‐diversity. Eleven vent systems form seven network modules with stronger connectivity in the Southwest than Northwest Pacific. The Manus Basin vent system emerges as a network ‘hub’ reflecting its central geographic near the equator.

Main Conclusion

Two western Pacific biogeographic provinces arise, north and south of the equator that few species transcend. Local and regional conservation plans should consider the low network connectivity and high system endemism in management of hydrothermal vent ecosystems in the event of seabed mining. Species recruitment is unlikely to transcend vent system boundaries. We identify Okinawa Trough, Mariana Trough, Manus Basin, Feni‐Tabar Arc and Kermadec Arc for development of conservation plans that initiate or expand protection.
Instrumental helping and short‐term reciprocity in chimpanzees and human children
Authors: Knofe Hagen , Engelmann Jan M. , Grueneisen Sebastian , Herrmann Esther
Published: November 2023

Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and humans cooperate in reciprocal patterns, but it is unclear whether these interactions are based on the same psychological foundations. While there is evidence suggesting that both species engage in long‐term forms of reciprocity, there is very little work exploring their short‐term behavioural contingencies with suitable methods. Here, we present a direct comparative study on short‐term reciprocity in chimpanzees and human children using a novel, low‐cost instrumental helping task. We investigated whether participants help a conspecific partner to obtain a tool for accessing a reward, and whether the level of helping depends on the partner's previous helpful or unhelpful behaviour. In line with prior research, both chimpanzees and children demonstrated helping behaviour towards their partner. However, the extent to which the two species showed short‐term reciprocity differed considerably. After receiving help, tested children always helped in return. They helped substantially less when interacting with an unhelpful partner. Chimpanzees showed a higher tendency to help when interacting with a helpful compared to an unhelpful partner only in the first half the experiment. With increasing trial number, chimpanzees stopped discriminating between helpful and unhelpful partners. This study provides evidence for short‐term reciprocity in human children and, to a lesser extent, in our closest living relatives. Our findings demonstrate that helping paradigms provide a useful context to investigate reciprocal motives in humans and chimpanzees alike.
Plasma pentosidine concentration is associated with ligament ossification and high‐grade osteoarthritis: The ROAD study
Authors: Nagata Keiji , Hashizume Hiroshi , Oka Hiroyuki , Ishimoto Yuyu , Muraki Shigeyuki , Nakamura Kozo , Yoshida Munehito , Tanaka Sakae , Yamada Hiroshi , Yoshimura Noriko
Published: November 2023

Aim

No studies have examined the association between plasma pentosidine levels and ossification diseases in large cohorts of Japanese residents. This study aimed to investigate the association between cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) and other ossification diseases, including diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, lumbar spondylosis and knee osteoarthritis (OA), by examining plain radiographs of the knee, and cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine from 1690 participants, and the association between these diseases and plasma pentosidine.

Design

We enrolled 1690 participants (596 men and 1094 women) from mountainous and coastal areas from the study population of the previous Research on Osteoarthritis/Osteoporosis Against Disability study. X‐ray examination of the cervical/thoracic/lumbar spine and knee was carried out only in these individuals, and not those from urban areas. Plasma pentosidine concentrations were determined using enzyme‐linked immunoassays.

Results

Radiographic OPLL was detected in 30 (17 men, 13 women) of 1562 individuals who underwent X‐ray examination of the cervical spine. OPLL, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis, lumbar spondylosis Kellgren–Lawrence (KL) grade, and knee OA KL grade were associated with high plasma pentosidine concentrations (all P < 0.05). Furthermore, significant intragroup differences (KL grade 4 vs 3) of plasma pentosidine concentration were observed between the lumbar spondylosis and knee OA groups. The plasma pentosidine concentration was significantly associated with age, OPLL, lumbar spondylosis (KL grade 4) and knee OA (KL grade 4).

Conclusions

OPLL is significantly associated with other ossification diseases. The development of more severe OA might lead to the accumulation of plasma pentosidine. Plasma pentosidine levels were associated with OPLL and severe OA. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 154–160.
Fabrication of fine‐grained Li2TiO3 ceramic with enhanced performance using high‐energy ball milling
Authors: Wang Yufei , Gong Yichao , Kang Kun , Li Zhaokun , Li Jiarui , Ren Shuai , Yan Guojun , Zhang Guojun
Published: November 2023

Numerous efforts have been made to fabricate Li2TiO3 tritium breeding ceramics with satisfactory density and mechanical strength while maintaining a fine grain structure. In this study, high‐energy ball milling was performed to promote grain refinement and amorphization of TiO2 and Li2CO3 powders, thereby preparing Li2TiO3 ceramic at a reduced sintering temperature. In the presence of high‐energy ball milling, powder mixtures with particle sizes of 24–29 nm were obtained, and the formation of β‐Li2TiO3 occurred at 400°C. The relative density and crushing load of Li2TiO3 ceramic pebbles improved as the ball‐to‐powder ratio and milling time increased. The Li2TiO3 ceramic pebbles sintered at 900°C exhibited a tiny grain size, satisfactory relative density (89%), and excellent crushing load (121 ± 13 N). The results also demonstrated that Li2TiO3 ceramic possessed the maximum thermal conductivity and ionic conductivity under the conditions of a 20:1 ball‐to‐powder ratio and 20 h milling time, that is, 5.028 W/m·K and 1.87×10−2 S/m at room temperature. Overall, the high‐energy ball milling process has shown advantages in the fabrication of tritium breeding ceramics with fine‐grained structure and excellent comprehensive performance.
Low‐temperature curable adhesive for joining SiC/SiC components: Their application in wide range of temperatures
Authors: Thuniki Naveen Reddy , Gangavarapu Krishna Prasad , Brijendra Vikram G. , Budda Kanakaiah , Prasad V. V. Bhanu
Published: November 2023

Herein we report the formulation of phenolic resin–based adhesive to join SiC substrates for a wide range of application temperatures. The formulation consists of phenolic resin as a binder and a mixture of B4C, Al2O3, Y2O3, Si, and SiO2 powders as active filler. The X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, porosity, and scanning electron microscopy analysis were carried out to understand the reactions occurring within this adhesive during its exposure to application temperatures. These results were also used to understand thermal stability and morphological changes that are involved in the formulated adhesive during its application. The shear strength values of lap joints of SiC substrates made with this phenolic adhesive after exposure to temperatures between 200 and 1500°C were studied to evaluate its adhesive capacity. Obtained SiC joints with this adhesive have shown an excellent lap shear strength value of 24 MPa after its cure. These joints were also found to be intact with good shear strength values of more than 5 MPa even after exposure to temperatures ranging from 200 to 1500°C. The results further confirm that the adhesive is potentially viable for joining SiC segments for their application at a wide range of temperatures in oxidative environments.
Analyzing time‐varying tail dependence between leveraged loan and debt markets in the U.S. economy
Authors: Tiwari Aviral Kumar , Trabelsi Nader , Abakah Emmanuel Joel Aikins , Lee Chi‐Chuan
Published: November 2023

This study analyzes the time‐varying dependence between U.S. leveraged loan and debt markets within a highly linked financial system using a quantile‐based time‐varying connectedness framework to determine the hedging benefits of leveraged loans for financial investors at various quantiles. Based on daily closing price data from November 28, 2008 to October 3, 2023, the evidence demonstrates considerable (moderate) spillovers across the leveraged loan and debt markets for severe (normal) occurrences, with additional results indicating symmetric interaction. In terms of risk spillover, we also affirm the dominance of short‐term fixed‐income instruments over leveraged loans and long‐term bonds. These findings indicate that no hedging or diversification occurred among the investigated markets.
Morphology and diet are decoupled in nearshore notothenoids from King George Island, West Antarctica
Authors: Landaeta Mauricio F. , Pareja Matías , Hüne Mathias , Zenteno‐Devaud Lisette , Vera‐Duarte Javier , Bernal‐Durán Valentina , Castillo Manuel I. , La Mesa Mario
Published: November 2023

Antarctic notothenioid fishes show wide adaptive morphological radiation, linked to habitat preferences and food composition. However, direct comparisons of phenotypic variability and feeding habits are still lacking, particularly in stages inhabiting nearshore areas. To assess these relationships, we collected juveniles and adults of the most common benthic species inhabiting shallow waters off the South Shetland Islands within a similar size range, the plunderfish Harpagifer antarcticus, the black rockcod Notothenia coriiceps, and the marbled rockcod Notothenia rossii. Individual size ranges varied from 44.0 to 98.9 mm standard length (LS) (H. antarcticus), from 95.8 to 109.3 mm LS (N. coriiceps), and from 63.0 to 113.0 mm LS (N. rossii). Notothenioid fish showed different morphospace variability, being larger for H. antarcticus than the other Notothenia species and associated with the position of the posterior end of the operculum, along with the location and relative size of the eye. The evolutionary allometry was low, but the static allometry was much higher, especially for H. antarcticus and N. rossii. The diet was mainly carnivorous, consisting of amphipods and euphausiids. Macroalgae were scarce or totally absent in the gut contents of all species. Only H. antarcticus showed an increase in the prey number and ingested prey volume with fish size. Finally, there was a significant covariation between shape changes and LS in all species (allometric effects), however, not with prey composition, probably due to the small size range or ontogenetic stage and the relative similarity (or lack of contrast) in the benthic environment that they utilized.
Phenotypic and genomic characterization of a non‐pathogenic Epilithonimonas ginsengisoli isolated from diseased farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) in Chile
Authors: Miranda Claudio D. , Irgang Rute , Concha Christopher , Rojas Rodrigo , Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben
Published: November 2023

Flavobacterial infection associated with diseased fish is caused by multiple bacterial species within the family Flavobacteriaceae. In the present study, the Chilean isolate FP99, from the gills of a diseased, farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), was characterized using phenotypic and genomic analyses. Additionally assessed was pathogenic activity. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing confirmed that isolate FP99 belonged to the genus Epilithonimonas, an average nucleotide identity value of 100% was detected with the Chilean isolate identified as Epilithonimonas sp. FP211‐J200. In silico genome analysis, mechanisms for toxins production, and superantigens, adhesion, or other genes associated with virulence were not detected. However, genes encoding proteins for antibiotic resistance were found, including the chrA gene and the nucleotide sequence that encodes for multiple antibiotic resistance MarC proteins. Furthermore, the blaESP‐1 gene (87.85% aminoacidic sequence identity), encoding an extended‐spectrum subclass B3 metallo‐β‐lactamase and conferring carbapenem‐hydrolysing activity, and the tet(X) gene, which encodes a monooxygenase that catalyses the degradation of tetracycline‐class antimicrobials were carried by this isolate. Phenotyping analyses also supported assignment as E. ginsengisoli. Challenge trials against healthy rainbow trout resulted in no observed pathogenic effect. Our findings identify for the first time the species E. ginsengisoli as associated with fish farming, suggesting that this isolate may be a component of the microbiota of the freshwater system. Notwithstanding, poor environmental conditions and any stressors associated with aquaculture situations or lesions caused by other pathogenic bacteria, such as F. psychrophilum, could favour the entry of E. ginsengisoli into rainbow trout.
Depressive symptoms associated with infection prevention measures and daily lifestyle habit characteristics among Japanese community‐dwelling older adults during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Hamatani Masako , Su Ya , Yuki Michiko , Ogawa Natsuka , Kawahara Kayoko
Published: November 2023

Aim

This study aimed to clarify the relationship between depressive symptoms and infection prevention measures and daily lifestyle habits during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic among community‐dwelling Japanese older adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on older residents (age ≥65 years) living in the Tama area of Tokyo and Sapporo, Hokkaido, in 2021. A self‐administered questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data on demographics, the impact of the pandemic on physical condition, and depressive symptoms, infection prevention measures, and daily lifestyle habits during the pandemic. The Geriatric Depression Scale was used to assess depressive symptoms.

Results

In total, 554 respondents were included in the analysis. The results of multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that refraining from going out and visiting medical institutions were associated with depressive symptoms. Furthermore, those who went out almost every day were less likely to have depressive symptoms than the others, those who exercised almost every day were less likely to have depressive symptoms than were those who almost never exercised, and those who slept 6–7 h were less likely to have depressive symptoms than were those who slept ≤5 h.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study suggest the necessity of having a place where older adults with physical and lifestyle concerns can consult with healthcare providers in a location other than a medical institution, even during infectious disease outbreaks. In addition, increasing the frequencies of going out and independent exercise and sleeping 6–7 h may help prevent depression among older adults.
The suprapatellar fat pad: A histotopographic comparative study
Authors: Stocco Elena , Contran Martina , Fontanella Chiara Giulia , Petrelli Lucia , Toniolo Ilaria , Emmi Aron , Romanato Filippo , Porzionato Andrea , De Caro Raffaele , Macchi Veronica
Published: November 2023

The suprapatellar fat pad is an adipose tissue located in the anterior knee whose role in osteoarthritis is still debated. Considering that anatomy drives function, the aim of this histotopographic study was to investigate the specific morphological features of the suprapatellar fat pad versus the infrapatellar fat pad in the absence of osteoarthritis, for a broad comparative analysis. Suprapatellar fat pad and infrapatellar fat pad tissue samples (n = 10/group) underwent microscopical/immunohistochemical staining and transmission electron microscopy analysis; thus, tissue‐specific characteristics (i.e., vessels and nerve endings presence, lobuli, adipocytes features, septa), including extracellular matrix proteins prevalence (collagens, elastic fibers), were focused. Multiphoton microscopy was also adopted to evaluate collagen fiber orientation within the samples by Fast Fourier Transform (coherency calculation). The absence of inflammation was confirmed, and comparable counted vessels and nerve endings were shown. Like the infrapatellar fat pad, the suprapatellar fat pad appeared as a white adipose tissue with lobuli and septa of comparable diameter and thickness, respectively. Tissue main characteristics were also proved by both semithin sections and transmission electron microscopy analysis. The suprapatellar fat pad adipocytes were roundish and with a smaller area, perimeter, and major axis than that of the infrapatellar fat pad. The collagen fibers surrounding them showed no significant difference in collagen type I and significantly higher values for collagen type III in the infrapatellar fat pad group. Regarding the septa, elastic fiber content was statistically comparable between the two groups, even though more represented by the suprapatellar fat pad. Total collagen was significantly higher in the infrapatellar fat pad and comparing collagen type I and type III they were similarly represented in the whole cohort despite collagen type I appearing to be higher in the infrapatellar fat pad than in the suprapatellar fat pad and vice versa for collagen type III. Second harmonic generation microscopy confirmed through coherency calculation an anisotropic distribution of septa collagen fibers. From a mechanical point of view, the different morphological characteristics determined a major stiffness for the infrapatellar fat pad with respect to the suprapatellar fat pad. This study provides, for the first time, a topographic description of the suprapatellar fat pad compared to the infrapatellar fat pad; differences between the two groups may be attributed to a different anatomical location within the knee; the results gathered here may be useful for a more complete interpretation of osteoarthritis disease, involving not only cartilage but the whole joint.
Hypnotic effects of melatonin depend on the environmental lighting conditions in the rat
Authors: Wang Yumeng , Deboer Tom
Published: November 2023

Acute effects of exogenous melatonin have been widely reported to promote sleep or induce drowsiness in human. However, testing of the hypnotic effects of melatonin in nocturnal rodents has yielded contradictory results. The latter may be associated with differences in concentration, lighting conditions, time of administration of melatonin, and possibly the type of analysis. In this study, electroencephalogram (EEG) and electromyogram were recorded in pigmented male Brown Norway rats under both light‐dark (LD) and constant dark (DD) conditions. Melatonin was administered intraperitoneally at a moderate dose of 3 mg/kg, at either 1 h after lights on under LD condition or 1 h after the activity offset under DD condition. The dosage is known to be able to entrain nocturnal rodents in DD conditions, but does not change sleep in rodents in LD. Only the rats under DD conditions showed a significant reduction in nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep latency, while the NREM sleep power spectrum remained unaffected. Under LD condition, melatonin did not alter NREM and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep latency, and had only minor effects on the NREM sleep EEG. Regardless of lighting conditions, melatonin administration resulted in less, but longer episodes for all vigilance states suggesting increased vigilance state consolidation. In the discussion, we compare our results with a summary of previously published data concerning the hypnotic effects of melatonin in polysomnographic/EEG‐confirmed sleep in humans and nocturnal rodents. In conclusion, the hypnotic effect of exogenous melatonin in nocturnal rodents not only depends on the time of day, and concentration, but is also influenced by the lighting conditions. Regardless of inducing sleep or not, melatonin may consolidate sleep and through that enhance sleep quality.
Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam following intravenous administration at different doses in sheep
Authors: Gungor Huseyin , Corum Orhan , Durna Corum Duygu , Kumru Alper Serhat , Yilmaz Gökhan , Coskun Devran , Coskun Alparslan , Uney Kamil
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study is to determine the pharmacokinetic change after intravenous administration of meloxicam at doses of 0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg to sheep. The study was carried out on six Akkaraman sheep. Meloxicam was administered intravenously to each sheep at 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg doses in a longitudinal pharmacokinetic design with a 15‐day washout period. Plasma concentrations of meloxicam were determined using the high performance liquid chromatography‐ultraviolet, and pharmacokinetic parameters were evaluated by non‐compartmental analysis. Meloxicam was detected up to 48 h in the 0.5 mg/kg dose and up to 96 h in the 1 and 2 mg/kg doses. As the dose increased from 0.5 to 2 mg/kg, terminal elimination half‐life, and dose normalized area under the concentration versus time curve increased and total clearance decreased. Compared to the 1 mg/kg dose, it was determined that Vdss decreased and C0.083h increased in the 2 mg/kg dose. Meloxicam provided the therapeutic concentration of >0.39 μg/mL reported in other species for 12, 48 and 96 h at 0.5, 1 and 2 mg/kg doses, respectively. These results show that meloxicam exhibits non‐linear pharmacokinetics and will achieve unpredictable plasma concentrations when administered IV for a rapid effect at dose of ≥1 mg/kg in sheep.
Turkey's Nuclear Security Regime: An Assessment
Authors: Udum Şebnem
Published: November 2023

The 9/11 attacks prompted the development of an international nuclear security regime. States are expected to adopt legislation and institutionalize measures to ensure cooperation among stakeholders and create their own national nuclear security regimes. This article evaluates the steps taken by Turkey, a newcomer in nuclear energy. It argues that while Ankara has acted in line with its traditional conception of security, this is not enough. The inadequate cooperation and coordination among stakeholders, and the insufficient development of a security culture specifically oriented to nuclear energy, leave the country vulnerable. The analysis explains the vulnerabilities and incomplete tasks, and proposes actions necessary for Turkey to create a sound national nuclear security regime.
Decolonisation for health: A lifelong process of unlearning for Australian white nurse educators
Authors: Rix Elizabeth , Doran Frances , Wrigley Beth , Rotumah Darlene
Published: November 2023

Indigenous nurse scholars across nations colonised by Europeans articulate the need for accomplices (as opposed to mere performative allies) to work alongside them and support their ongoing struggle for health equity and respect and to prioritise and promote culturally safe healthcare. Although cultural safety is now being mandated in nursing codes of practice as a strategy to address racism in healthcare, it is important that white nurse educators have a comprehensive understanding about cultural safety and the pedagogical skills needed to teach it to undergraduate nurses. We open this article with stories of our journeys as two white nurses in becoming accomplices and working alongside Indigenous Peoples, as patients and colleagues. Our lived experience of the inertia of healthcare and education organisations to address systemic and institutional resistance to the practice of cultural safety underpins the intention of this article. We understand that delivering this challenging and complex topic effectively and respectfully is best achieved when Indigenous and white educators work together at the cultural interface. Doing so requires commitment from white nurses and power holders within universities and healthcare institutions. A decolonising approach to nurse education at individual and institutional levels is fundamental to support and grow the work that needs to be done to reduce health inequity and increase cultural safety. White nurse accomplices can play an important role in teaching future nurses the importance of critical reflection and aiming to reduce power imbalances and racism within healthcare environments. Reducing power imbalances in healthcare environments and decolonising nursing practice is the strength of a cultural safety framework.
The logic of war in the grammar of commerce: Geoeconomics revisited
Authors: Luttwak Edward N.
Published: November 2023

This commentary reviews the origins and context in which the author's conception of ‘geoeconomics’ emerged. As such, it responds to Mallin and Sidaway's (2023) genealogical reconstruction of geoeconomics, rejecting their association of the concept with the ultra‐nationalistic iterations ofGeoökonomiein Weimar Germany. The author reflects on the reception of his notion of geoeconomics, highlighting the contrasting fortunes of the associated ideas in France and the United States.
Homozygous SPTA1‐associated hereditary pyropoikilocytosis presenting as hydrops fetalis
Authors: Brancamp Rachel , Hughes Caitlin E. , Dar Anna , Polic Aleksandra , Zuckerwise Lisa C. , Booth Garrett S.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Hereditary pyropoikilocytosis (HPP) is a heterogeneous inherited disorder of red blood cell (RBC) membrane and cytoskeletal proteins that leads to hemolytic anemia. HPP is characterized by marked poikilocytosis, microspherocytes, RBC fragmentation, and elliptocytes on peripheral blood smear. Mutations in SPTA1 can cause HPP due to a quantitative defect in α‐spectrin and can lead to profound fetal anemia and nonimmune hydrops fetalis, which can be managed with intrauterine transfusion.

Case Presentation

We present a case of a 26‐year‐old G4P2102 woman of Amish‐Mennonite ancestry with a pregnancy complicated by fetal homozygosity for an SPTA1 gene variant (SPTA1c.6154delG) as well as severe fetal anemia and hydrops fetalis, which was managed with four intrauterine transfusions between 26 and 30 weeks gestation. Pre‐transfusion peripheral smears from fetal blood samples showed RBC morphology consistent with HPP. The neonate had severe hyperbilirubinemia at birth, which has resolved, but remains transfusion‐dependent at 6 months of life.

Discussion/Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report that correlates homozygosity of the SPTA1c.6154delG gene variant with RBC dysmorphology and establishes the diagnosis of HPP.
On the Line Graph Associated to the Total Graph of a Module
Authors: Goswami Jituparna , K. Saikia Helen
Published: November 2023

Let R be a commutative ring with  unity  and  M  be an R-module  with T Γ(M ) be its total  graph.   The  subject  of this  article  is the  investigation of the  properties  of the  corresponding  line graph  L(T Γ(M )).In  particular, we determine  the  girth  and clique number  of L(T Γ(M )).  In addition  to that, we find a condition  for L(T Γ(M )) to be Eulerian.
On Markovian Modeling of Vehicular Traffic Flow in Gwagwalada Metropolis, Nigeria.
Authors: Oguntade Emmanue Segun , Bako Sunday Samuel , Mayaki Godwin Monday
Published: November 2023

Analysis of queue performance parameters is inevitable for efficient and effective congestion control and traffic free networking system. This study assesses the efficiency and effectiveness of road traffic systems, using the Atlas Hotel road intersection, Gwagwalada, Abuja Nigeria as a case study. Queue theory analytic methodologies are applied and parameters such as average arrival and service rate are calculated based on the data obtained at the said junction on daily basis for a period of one week. Inter-arrival time is 10 seconds and M/M/3 queue model was found appropriate. Considering the 15278 vehicles observed, major arrivals and departure were on the SDP leg, while the least arrivals and departure was witnessed on the Town-Hall leg, the El-Rufai and NITEL legs had varying degrees of arrivals and departure. Based on the data gathered, it was observed that the evenings record the highest magnitude of vehicular traffic at the intersection while mornings had the least.  It was concluded that with reference to the intersection studied, road traffic system performance within the Gwagwalada metropolis is stable as Level of Service is A with Average Control Delay(seconds/vehicle)  . Modernization and re-design of roadways, traffic education, as well as introduction of road traffic utilities were recommended.
On mild solutions of a semilinear mixed Volterra-Fredholm functional integrodifferential evolution nonlocal problem in Banach spaces
Authors: Kumar Kamalendra , Kumar Rakesh , Karnatak Manoj
Published: November 2023

The existence, uniqueness and continuous dependence on initial data of mild solutions of nonlocal mixed Volterra-Fredholm functional integrodifferential equations with delay in Banach spaces has been discussed and proved in the present paper. The results are established by using the semigroup theory and modified version of Banach contraction theorem.
Developmentally programmed obesity: Is there a role for anti‐inflammatory nutritional strategies?
Authors: Kearns Michelle L. , Reynolds Clare M.
Published: November 2023

Pregnancy represents a period of immense maternal physiological adaptation, with progressive increases in lipid storage potential and insulin resistance to support fetal/placental growth. This requires significant change in the adipose tissue. Women living with obesity/overweight are more susceptible to these changes causing complications such as gestational diabetes. This is particularly worrying as up to 60% of European women are living with overweight/obesity at the onset of pregnancy. Furthermore, less than 1% meet all nutrition guidelines. There is now evidence that these deep metabolic changes can result in a predisposition to metabolic disease in both the mother and child in later life. Health and nutrition status during this period therefore represents a window to future health. This period offers a valuable opportunity for intervention to prevent the negative consequences of poor in utero environments and increases the long‐term quality of life for mother and offspring. This review will examine a range of in utero factors which determine adipose tissue development, the impact of these factors on later‐life obesity and metabolic health and the therapeutic value of dietary anti‐inflammatory nutritional interventions during pregnancy and early life. When it comes to early life nutrition, a ‘one size fits all’ approach is not always appropriate. Understanding the mechanisms of adipose tissue development in response to differing nutritional strategies may be important in the context of complicated or adverse in utero environments and represents a substantial step towards a more personalised nutritional approach for the prevention of obesity, metabolic syndrome and related non‐communicable diseases in future generations.