bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case series: Symptom‐inhibited fentanyl induction (SIFI) onto treatment‐dose opioid agonist therapy in a community setting
Authors: Azar Pouya , Kim Jane J. , Davison Ruth , Barazanci Zoran , Ignaszewski Martha J. , Wong James S. H. , Machado Jessica , Harris Marianne , Krausz Michael , Mathew Nickie , Herring Andrew , Montaner Julio S. G.
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives

Existing opioid agonist therapy (OAT) guidelines are far from sufficient to address rising opioid tolerances and potency of the unregulated opioid market in North America. Inadequate starting doses of OAT are a universally recognized barrier for people who use fentanyl. Our objectives are to present a novel induction protocol called symptom‐inhibiting fentanyl induction (SIFI) that uses rapid intravenous fentanyl administration to inhibit symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

Methods

We describe two cases highlighting the potential clinical utility of SIFI.

Results

This case series demonstrates two safe and successful transitions onto higher‐than‐standard doses of methadone and slow‐release oral morphine harnessing an emerging approach of SIFI in a community clinic setting.

Discussion and Conclusions

These results support emerging evidence that SIFI is safe and feasible to meet patients' opioid requirements and facilitate rotation onto OAT. Further studies are needed to increase the generalizability of these findings.

Scientific Significance

Safe transitions onto treatment‐dose OAT are of heightened clinical importance at a time when fentanyl and high‐potency synthetic opioids are now the norm. SIFI is a novel induction method that could address significant gaps in the currently available OAT options in the fentanyl era.
Aging Is Associated With Decreased Lactobacillus and Increased Cervicovaginal Inflammation in Canadian Women
Authors: Dang Ha T. , Noel‐Romas Laura , Knodel Samantha , Birse Kenzie , Lamont Alana , Kratzer Kateryna , McQueen Peter , Perner Michelle , Ayele Hossaena , Berard Alicia R. , Schellenberg John J. , McCorrister Stuart , Westmacott Garrett , Sandberg Bonnie , Yu Adelicia , Burnett Margaret , Poliquin Vanessa , Burgener Adam D. , Farr Zuend Christina
Published: February 2025

Problem

Aging is characterized by a general dysregulation of systemic immune responses that increases susceptibility to infections and malignancies. Immune cells in the female genital tract (FGT) are regulated by sex hormones, but little is known about the impact of aging and menopause on immunology in the FGT.

Method of Study

This study conducted an age‐focused sub‐analysis of cervicovaginal samples collected from 47 women enrolled in the Vaginal Mucosal Systems study in Winnipeg, Canada. Paired cervicovaginal lavage and cervical cytobrush were collected and analyzed by Luminex cytokine array, mass spectrometry based metaproteomics, metabolomics, and high dimensional flow cytometry.

Results

The median age of study participants was 38 (range 19–88), with 12 over the age of 50. Increasing age was significantly correlated with increased cervicovaginal inflammation, including inflammatory cytokine MIP‐1β (r = 0.335, p = 0.023), and activated T cells (CD4+HLA‐DR+ r = 0406, p = 0.009; CD8+HLA‐DR+ r = 0.399, p = 0.010; CD8+CD38+HLA‐DR+ r = 0.386, p = 0.013). Proteomic analysis of cervicovaginal mucus identified 925 human proteins, with 108 (11.7%) significantly correlated with age. Pathway analysis indicated biofunctions related to immune response, migration, and myeloid cell phagocytosis increased with age. Interestingly, neutrophil related pathways decreased with age, including G‐CSF (r = −0.396, p = 0.006) and reactive oxygen species (z‐score = −2.607, p = 2.31E‐4). Vaginal Lactobacillus crispatus, a species associated with mucosal health, significantly decreased with age (r = −0.340, p = 0.022), with participants over the age of 50 more likely to have non‐Lactobacillus dominant microbiomes compared to those under 40.

Conclusions

Together, our data suggests that there is an increase in cervicovaginal inflammation and a decrease in L. crispatus that occurs with aging.
A Systematic Review for Guidelines: Sports and High‐Grade Kidney Injuries in Children With Solitary Kidneys
Authors: Palmer Jack , Johnstone Lilian M. , Deshpande Aniruddh , Boyer Olivia , Blanc Thomas , Taghavi Kiarash
Published: February 2025

Aim

To determine the risk of Grades IV and V kidney injury due to common children's sports.

Methods

A systematic review of studies reporting traumatic kidney injuries (TKIs) associated with basketball, cycling, equestrian, motorsports, netball, rugby, Australian football or soccer. Studies with patients exclusively 18 years or older, non‐TKIs or non‐sport‐related mechanisms were excluded.

Results

Twenty‐five studies with 24 424 patients were included. The estimated risk of kidney loss from sports injuries is 0.37 per million child‐years. However, the incidence of Grades IV and V injuries could not be calculated in at‐risk populations due to limited prospective data. The prevalence of TKIs from sport‐specific trauma was low, ranging from 0.6% to 2.2%. Few studies graded the severity of kidney injury, but in the small number reported, Grades IV and V injuries occurred in 33% of soccer TKIs, 26% of bicycling, 23% of Australian football, 20% of basketball and 17% of equestrian injuries. The high number of ungraded kidney injuries (5514/5607) impacts the reliability of findings.

Conclusion

Recommendations to exclude children with congenital single kidneys from specific sports lack a firm evidence‐base. Given bio‐psycho‐social consequences, such recommendations must be carefully considered, particularly for equestrian and motorised vehicles, which carry a higher risk of trauma.
How to Write a Pathology Research Paper—Basic Principles and Beyond—A Primer for Residents
Authors: Kristiansen Glen
Published: February 2025

Medical writing is an art but still it is usually not in the curriculum of medical students. With the beginning of scientific activity during residency, many perceive this gap increasingly, and stay behind their own expectations in their scientific productivity. Many universities offer courses to teach scientific writing and many books and article address this void, but in real life the main work to carve a readable paper out of a pile of unsorted data remains often in the hands of the scientific supervisors. This little paper tries to address this issue with a focus on typical pathology related subjects by outlining the structure of a paper and explaining typical dos and don'ts of crafting a publishable scientific paper as a pathology resident.
Myoclonic Seizures After Endoscopic Cervical Disc Surgery: A Rare Complication or Just Coincidence?
Authors: Avci İdris , Paksoy Kemal , Kapdan Melih , Şentürk Salim , Tüzün Hatice Hale , Yaman Onur
Published: February 2025

We present a unique case of myoclonic seizures 36 h after endoscopic cervical disc surgery. A 48‐year‐old female patient underwent posterior endoscopic disc surgery for right C6‐C7 disc herniation. The surgery finished without any complications. No dural tear could be detected. 36 h after the surgery the patient developed myoclonic seizures. The MRI did not reveal any mass effect or hemorrhage or any signs of intracranial hypotension, EEG did not show any pathologies. Generalized seizures after spinal procedures are extremely rare and are mostly associated with accidental durotomy‐induced intracranial hypotension or pneumocephalus. No plausible cause for the seizure like disturbance of CSF flow, hypovolemia, anesthetic agents, or the irrigation water pressure could be found to explain this pathology. We believe that the cause of the seizure was multifactorial due to a combination of the presence of syringomyelia, surgical manipulation, and water pressure of the endoscope creating an epileptogenic focus on the proximal spinal cord creating a foundation for the later seizure.
Keep Up With the Joneses: Founders and Family Business Philanthropy
Authors: Wang Kun , Tang Yingkai , Huang Xiaohong
Published: February 2025

This study examines how the social climate of comparison in which a founder grew up impacts family business (FB) philanthropy, emphasizing the founder's role in FB decisions. With a dataset of 758 Chinese FBs, we find that the stronger the social climate of comparison in the founder's region of upbringing, the more charitable donations the FB tends to make. This effect is more pronounced in areas with a high concentration of FBs. The unspoken rules of Chinese society, related to ‘face (Mianzi)’ and ‘favours’ significantly influence business decisions.
Google infodemiology and temporal trends in benign prostatic hyperplasia surgery in Australia
Authors: Shin Brian Ng Hung , Qu Liang , Tan Samuel X. , Rhee Handoo , Chung Eric
Published: February 2025

Objective

To contextualise the national population‐based temporal surgical trends in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in Australia.

Methods

Google Trends (GT) was used to analyse the level of patients' online interest in various surgical options for the treatment of BPH. Analysis of variance was performed and the average rates of change in GT popularity score was calculated for the period from 1 January 2010 to 31 October 2022. Data regarding surgical volume were extracted from the Medicare Benefits Schedule and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare databases, and population‐adjusted rates of BPH procedures performed were calculated accordingly.

Results

The level of online interest in Australia was highest for transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and population data also showed that TURP remained the most utilised procedure across the study period. Nationwide, there was an increased uptake of photovaporisation of the prostate, accounting for 7.6% of BPH procedures in 2020–2021, with correspondingly lower rates of TURP and simple prostatectomies performed. Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) appeared to be underutilised and had the lowest mean popularity score, while prostatic urethral lift (PUL) and transurethral water vapour ablation (TUWA) showed strong uptake in the more recent years. The average rates of change were highest for TURP at +1.59/year (P < 0.001), followed by PUL at +0.56/year (P < 0.001) and TUWA at +0.50/year (P = 0.004), while the lowest was for HoLEP at +0.09/year (P = 0.116).

Conclusion

Differences were found between GT analysis and actual BPH procedures performed at a population level. This study highlights that clinicians need to adapt and provide better patient counselling to ensure a shared decision‐making process when choosing the treatment procedure for BPH/male LUTS.
Delineating the Clinical and Brain Imaging Characteristics of the Neonatal Form of CSTB‐Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Mohamed S. , Abdel‐Ghafar Sherif F. , Sayed Inas S. M. , Zaki Maha S. , Abdel‐Salam Ghada M. H.
Published: February 2025

Cystatin B gene (CSTB) is responsible for the most common childhood onset type of progressive myoclonic epilepsy (EPM1A). More recently, biallelic CSTB variants were described in four patients with a neonatal onset phenotype of microcephaly, diffuse hypomyelination, brain atrophic changes, and dyskinesia. Herein, we describe the clinical and molecular characterization of five additional patients in whom exome sequencing detected a splice variant (c.67‐1G>C) in Family I and II and a missense variant (c.10G>C, p.Gly4Arg) in Family III and IV. Interestingly, these variants were described before in patients with EPM1A. However, all our patients had progressive microcephaly, developmental delay, and dyskinesia. In addition, only one patient developed seizures. Brain imaging showed mainly diffuse hypomyelination and progressive cerebral and cerebellar atrophy of variable severity. Interestingly, one patient showed intracranial calcification and another showed congenital distal arthrogryposis. Our findings support the association between CSTB variants and the neonatal form as a distinct neurodevelopmental phenotype. This newly characterized neonatal onset of the CSTB shares many overlapping features with genetic disorders encompassing microcephaly and hypomyelination.
NONHSAT141192.2 Facilitates the Stemness and Radioresistance of Glioma Stem Cells via the Regulation of PIK3R3 and SOX2
Authors: Wang Sihan , Ming Haolang , Wang Zhen , Zhai Xingye , Zhang Xinyue , Wu Di , Bo Yin , Wang Hang , Luo Yuanbo , Han Zhenfeng , Hao Lingyu , Xiang Yijia , Han Xu , Wang Zengguang , Wang Yi
Published: February 2025

Background

Glioma stem cells (GSCs) contribute to the initiation, recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical modulators in the development and progression of GBM; however, specific lncRNAs related to GSCs remain largely unexplored. This study aims to identify dysregulated lncRNAs in GSCs, unravel their contributions to GBM progression, and propose new targets for diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

GeneChip analysis was utilized to identify lncRNAs in GSCs. The expression of RNAs was examined using quantitative real‐time PCR. Cell Counting Kit‐8, tmorsphere formation assay, limiting dilution assay, apoptosis detection and intracranial xenograft models were performed to assess the stemness and radioresistance of GSCs. Transcriptomics analysis, RNA immunoprecipitation and dual‐luciferase experiments were conducted for mechanistic studies.

Results

NONHSAT141192.2 exhibited elevated expression levels in aggressive GBM tissues compared to lower‐grade gliomas. Silencing NONHSAT141192.2 resulted in a considerable decrease in GSC proliferation, tumor sphere formation, self‐renewal and the expression of key stem cell markers. Furthermore, depletion of NONHSAT141192.2 enhanced GSC sensitivity to radiation, indicated by diminished viability and tumorsphere formation, increased cell apoptosis, and decreased tumor growth in intracranial xenograft models. Mechanistically, NONHSAT141192.2 upregulates the expression of SOX2 and PIK3R3 by sponging miR‐4279, influencing GSC characteristics and their resistance to radiation.

Conclusion

The study highlights a significant relationship between NONHSAT141192.2, GSC stemness, and radioresistance, emphasizing its potential as a therapeutic target for GBM treatment and radiosensitization.
An analysis of the size of law enforcement seizures of illicit fentanyl in the United States, 2018–2023
Authors: Palamar Joseph J. , Fitzgerald Nicole D. , Carr Thomas H.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Law enforcement seizure data can indicate potential shifts in drug availability. We examined trends in the size of illicit fentanyl seizures in the United States from 2018 through 2023.

Methods

Using national High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas data, we examined trends in the weight of fentanyl powder and number of fentanyl‐containing pills per seizure with a focus on federal and other common state‐level weight cutoffs that indicate various levels of trafficking (e.g., 1–4 g, 40–399 g, ≥400 g).

Results

Between 2018 and 2023, the plurality of fentanyl powder seizures weighed 40–399 g (27.7%), followed by seizures weighing 4–39 g (25.8%), 1–4 g (18.6%), ≥400 g (17.4%), and <1 g (10.4%). During this period, there was a decrease in the percentage weighing ≥400 g (annual percentage change [APC] = −5.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] −9.4, −1.0) and an increase in the percentage weighing 1–4 g (APC = 5.6, 95% CI 3.2, 8.1). With respect to fentanyl pill seizures, the plurality contained 40–399 pills (10 = 1 g; 25.4%), followed by 400–3999 (21.8%), <10 pills (20.4%), 10–39 pills (18.6%) and ≥4000 pills (13.8%). During this period, there was a decrease in seizures of <10 pills (APC = −12.6, 95% CI −23.2, −0.7) and increases in seizures containing 400–3999 (APC = 14.0, 95% CI 5.3, 23.1) and ≥4000 pills (APC = 12.6, 95% CI 7.4, 17.8).

Discussion and Conclusions

The size of fentanyl seizures varies greatly, with a sizeable portion legally classified as drug trafficking. While the weight of fentanyl powder seizures is decreasing, the size of pill seizures is increasing. The increasing availability of fentanyl pills in particular needs to be monitored to inform prevention and harm reduction efforts.
Motherhood and medicinal cannabis
Authors: Withanarachchie Vinuli , Rychert Marta , Wilkins Chris
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Women are emerging as a key demographic for medicinal cannabis (MC) use in countries that have implemented MC reforms. However, research on mothers' experiences of consuming MC remains limited beyond studies on perinatal outcomes. This study explores mothers' diverse experiences of consuming MC in New Zealand under the legal MC scheme.

Methods

Interviews with 15 mothers using MC via prescriptions, the illegal market or both in the last 12 months. Thematic analysis focused on MC use in parenting, MC conversations with children, societal stigma and risks.

Results

Mothers reported MC as an important facilitator of their ability to positively parent their children, enabling them to manage their own health needs (i.e., anxiety, endometriosis and arthritis). High costs of legal products hindered access to MC. Participants expressed unique risks that mothers face accessing the unregulated market for MC like being deemed a ‘bad mother’ and losing custody of children. Stigma was countered with narratives of empowerment through proactive MC conversations with children and agency by self‐medicating with MC despite the judgement they may face for being a parent that uses cannabis.

Discussion and Conclusions

Mothers felt managing their health with MC allowed them to be more present parents and better tolerate the stressors of motherhood. In‐depth exploration of discussing MC with children and anticipating these conversations was a novel finding. Most mothers tried to destigmatise MC in conversations by classifying it in the same category as other medications and discussing its therapeutic benefits. Few were cautious about having these conversations too early.
Ergonomic endoscopy – Fundamentals of ergonomics and interventions for endoscopy‐related musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Matsuzaki Ippei , Ebara Takeshi , Hori Yasuki , Ono Shoko , Nakai Yousuke , Hayashi Kazuki , Tsunemi Mafu , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: February 2025

Recently, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among endoscopists have attracted considerable attention. MSDs are caused by prolonged static postures, forceful manual exertions, and repetitive twisting maneuvers. Basic knowledge of ergonomics is useful for improving the posture, movements, and work environment of endoscopists, as well as developing equipment to prevent MSDs. This review discusses problematic endoscopic tasks from an ergonomic perspective, issues with MSD definitions, the prevalence of MSDs, local site interpretations, risk factors including working time and environment, and ergonomic evaluations. The evidence highlights the importance of multifaceted strategies for risk avoidance using the Hierarchy of Controls. Additionally, this review summarizes global trends and introduces the Ergonomic Endoscopy 7 Tips for MSD prevention, emphasizing a systems approach through collaboration with various stakeholders. Thus, it may serve as a guide for gastroenterologists and staff engaged in endoscopic procedures for prolonged periods.
Oomycetous Pathogens of Chestnut Saplings Grown at Some Nurseries in Western Black Sea Region of Türkiye and Use of Phosphorous Acid and Potassium Phosphonate for Their Control
Authors: Çakar Deniz , Şimşek Seçil Akıllı , Arslan Mustafa , Maden Salih
Published: February 2025

The occurrence of Oomycetous pathogens and their pathogenicities on chestnut saplings, grown at four nurseries were investigated in this study. Also, the effectiveness of foliage applications of phosphorous acid (H3PO3) and Potassium phosphonate (K3PO4), against Phytophthora cinnamomi which is the most common root rot pathogen of chestnuts in Türkiye was evaluated. Forty‐three Oomycetous isolates were obtained using selective media, from sixty plant and twenty soil samples collected from the nurseries. Oomycetous pathogens were identified by molecular tools, using ITS, cox1 for Phytophthora spp. and ITS and coxII primers for Phytopythium spp. Phytophthora cinnamomi was the most frequently isolated species, recovered from two nurseries, Gökçebey and Pınar, while Phytophthora inundata was from only the Pınar nursery. Two Phytopythium species, Phytopythium litorale and Phytopythium vexans were also frequently isolated, the former from Pınar and Hendek nurseries and the latter from Gölköy, Hendek and Gökçebey nurseries. Phytopythium spp. did not produced necrosis as large as P. cinnamomi when inoculated on to young saplings. When H3PO3 and K3PO4 were applied on to foliage one or 2 weeks before the pathogen inoculation, they reduced necrosis lengths significantly compared to the simultaneous application of H3PO3 and K3PO4 with the pathogen inoculations. Necrosis lengths obtained by the K3PO4 treatment were significantly lower than H3PO3 treatment.
What Is a Specialist? Quantifying Host Breadth Enables Impact Prediction for Invasive Herbivores
Authors: Schulz Ashley N. , Havill Nathan P. , Marsico Travis D. , Ayres Matthew P. , Gandhi Kamal J.K. , Herms Daniel A. , Hoover Angela M. , Hufbauer Ruth A. , Liebhold Andrew M. , Raffa Kenneth F. , Thomas Kathryn A. , Tobin Patrick C. , Uden Daniel R. , Mech Angela M.
Published: February 2025

Herbivores are commonly classified as host specialists or generalists for various purposes, yet the definitions of these terms, and their intermediates, are often imprecise and ambiguous. We quantified host breadth for 240 non‐native, tree‐feeding insects in North America using phylogenetic diversity. We demonstrated that a partitioning of host breadth: (1) causes 67% of non‐native insects to shift from a generalist to specialist category, (2) displays a reduction in host breadth from the native to introduced range, (3) identifies an inflection point in a model predicting the likelihood of non‐native insect ecological impact, with a corresponding change in behaviour associated with specialists versus generalists, and (4) enables three models for strong prediction of whether a non‐native forest insect will cause high impacts. Together, these results highlight the primacy of how herbivore host recognition and plant defences mediate whether novel host interactions will result in high impact after invasion.
Severe fluoropyrimidine toxicity in older adults with cancer with DPYD wild type
Authors: Brokaar Edwin , Knikman Jonathan , Visser Loes , van den Bos Frederiek , Henricks Linda , Lunenburg Carin , de Man Femke , Gelderblom Hans , Schellens Jan , Mathijssen Ron , Guchelaar Henk‐Jan , Portielje Johanneke , Cats Annemieke , Postmus Wout , de Glas Nienke
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite the implementation of DPYD genotype‐guided dosing, approximately 1 in 3 patients receiving fluoropyrimidine‐containing chemotherapy continues to experience severe toxicity. While clinical studies have demonstrated a favorable tolerance among highly selected fit older adults, real‐world studies have shown an increased risk of toxicity.

Objective

To identify predictors of severe toxicity or treatment deintensification in older DPYD wild‐type adults receiving fluoropyrimidine‐containing chemotherapy.

Method

Patients wild type for four tested DPYD variants, aged ≥65 years, who participated in a prospective clinical trial investigating genotype‐guided individualized fluoropyrimidine dosing, were eligible for the study. The association between tumor‐, treatment‐, and patient‐related characteristics and the occurrence of severe toxicity (grade ≥3, CTCAE v5.0) was analyzed in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. The same analyses were performed for a composite endpoint of severe toxicity or treatment deintensification (including dose reduction, cycle delay, or discontinuation).

Results

A total of 311 patients were included. Median age was 71.2 years and 58.8% were male. Grade ≥3 toxicity occurred in 23.2% of patients. In multivariate analysis, none of the characteristics studied were significantly associated with the occurrence of grade ≥3 toxicity. The composite endpoint occurred in 41.2% of patients and was associated with the use of full dose monotherapy in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Despite DPYD genotype‐based dosing, grade ≥3 toxicity and treatment deintensification frequently occur in older patients treated with fluoropyrimidine chemotherapy. No patient‐related variables were found to be associated with grade ≥3 toxicity, but treatment with dose‐reduced monotherapy resulted in fewer treatment deintensification or severe toxicity events.
Niche Difference Prevents Competitive Exclusion between the Invasive Submerged Macrophyte Elodea densa (Planch.) Casp. and Native Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle in a Large Plateau Lake
Authors: Shi Lei , Zheng Xing , Shan Hang , Hua Zhaohui , Wen Zihao , Yin Jinfeng , Chou Qingchuan , Zhang Xiaolin , Ni Leyi , Cao Te
Published: February 2025

Biological invasions in freshwater ecosystems are increasingly severe, posing significant threats to ecosystem health and economic development. Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle and Elodea densa (Planch.) Casp. are two of the most aggressive invasive submerged macrophytes worldwide, and often regarded as similar species due to their growth forms and habitat requirements, although there are few field coexistence records. Hydrilla verticillata is a native species in the large plateau Lake Erhai, where the non‐native E. densa has been documented since 2017. This study aims at exploring the colonisation process of E. densa as well as its niche overlap and interspecific interactions with native H. verticillata in Lake Erhai.

A continuous seven‐year field investigation was conducted in Lake Erhai. Four indicators were used to assess the population distribution of H. verticillata and E. densa, including occurrence frequency, biomass, relative abundance and relative niche breadth. The logistic growth model was applied to analyse population dynamics. The Gaussian model was used to characterise their distribution with water depths. A stability index was employed to evaluate variations in measured indices across different water depths. Indicators of niche overlap and interspecific association were used to describe the coexistence and interactions between the two species.

Elodea densa established several stable populations in Lake Erhai after years of colonisation and naturalisation, primarily colonising deeper areas of the lake than H. verticillata. Elodea densa tended to thrive at depths of around 4.0 m, whereas H. verticillata typically grew at depths from 2.0 to 3.0 m. Hydrilla verticillata demonstrated greater stability across varying water depths than E. densa. Niche overlap between the two species was minimal.

Our findings indicated that in this large plateau lake, native H. verticillata exhibited higher competitiveness than alien E. densa. There was a distinct niche difference in water depths between H. verticillata and E. densa, which prevented competitive exclusion. The two species achieved stable coexistence at a lake‐wide scale.

This study provided the first field evidence for coexistence between two globally recognized invasive species, showing that in habitats with sufficient environmental gradients and filtering pressures, submerged macrophytes similar in taxonomy and appearance could avoid competitive exclusion by occupying different ecological niches, leading to stable coexistence.
A survey of cone beam computed tomography use amongst endodontic specialists in the United Kingdom
Authors: Patel Shanon , Brown Jackie , Foschi Federico , Al‐Nuaimi Nassr , Fitton James
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate the applications of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) amongst endodontic specialists in the United Kingdom (UK) via an online survey.

Methods

An online invitation to take part in the survey was sent out to 306 specialist endodontists registered on the UK specialist register. The survey consisted of a series of questions associated with demographics, access and use of CBCT, utilization of dose optimization parameters, and frequency of use in different clinical scenarios.

Results

In total, 202 respondents completed the survey (a response rate of 66.3%), 128 were male (63.4%), and 74 were female (36.6%). Of the 202 respondents, 174 (85.7%) used CBCT for diagnosis and/or management of endodontic problems. A CBCT scanner was on‐site in 71.3% (n = 124) and 28.7% (n = 50) being off‐site. A small field of view (FOV) was the prescribed scan in most cases (88.5%, n = 154/174). The cost of the CBCT scan was included in the assessment/treatment fee in 21.8% (38/174) of cases, with 78.2% (136/174) charged a separate fee for the scan. In total, 89.1% (155/174) respondents used CBCT ‘often or always’ for management of complex root canal anatomy, 87.4% (152/174) for root resorption, 84.5% (147/174) for periapical microsurgery, only 20.7% (36/174) of respondents would use CBCT to assess the outcome of treatment. Only 35.1% (61/174) of respondents would prescribe a CBCT scan for a pregnant patient and 78.2% (136/174) would take a CBCT scan for a paediatric patient. In total, 22.4% (39/174) of respondents did not report or request reports of their CBCT scans. Respondents chose to alter the exposure parameters depending on the patient's age or if the dentition was deemed extensively restored. Of the clinicians who incorporate CBCT into their practice, 93.7% (164/174) believe it improves the quality of the care they provide, and 93.6% (163/174) felt that the use of CBCT improves confidence in their diagnosis.

Conclusions

The use of CBCT amongst specialist endodontists in the UK is commonplace. However, usage does not appear to completely follow best practice guidance for certain clinical scenarios and highlights the need for further training in CBCT.
The emotional politics of return migration: Negotiating im/mobilities across borders and generations
Authors: Sampaio Dora
Published: February 2025

In this article, I engage with the return migration and ageing nexus from an intergenerational vantage point. I build on the analytical power of emotions to argue for paying careful attention to the salient emotional dimensions of migration and what I term the emotional politics of return migration. I discuss the relationality, multiple temporalities and elusiveness of return by drawing on in‐depth interviews and ethnographic observations with transnational families: specifically, the adult offspring who have emigrated to the United States – where they experience legal uncertainty – and their ageing parents in Brazil. The article contributes to scholarship on return migration and ageing in two ways. First, by emphasizing a temporal dimension where the emotional politics of return migration take shape through uneven rhythms, frequencies and intensities of contact, and second, by underscoring an intersubjective, familial component, where the return is mediated through bodily interaction, digital technologies and discourses of emotivity.
Validity and Reliability of the Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory and Self‐Care Self‐Efficacy Scale in Patients Living With Cancer
Authors: Di Nitto Marco , Durante Angela , Torino Francesco , Bolgeo Tatiana , Damico Vincenzo , Ghizzardi Greta , Zerulo Sipontina Rita , Alvaro Rosaria , Vellone Ercole , Biagioli Valentina
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to test the psychometric properties of the Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory and the Self‐Care Self‐Efficacy scale in patients with cancer.

Design

A multisite cross‐sectional validation study was conducted.

Methods

Between November 2022 and July 2023, a convenience sample of 318 patients with cancer were enrolled in five Italian inpatient and outpatient facilities. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed on the three scales of the Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory and the Self‐Care Self‐Efficacy scale. Internal consistency was tested using Cronbach's alpha for unidimensional scales and McDonald's Omega for multidimensional scales. Construct validity was assessed with the global health status by Pearson's correlation. The COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments reporting guidelines were followed for the reporting process.

Results

Three hundred fourteen patients were included (median age: 55.5 years; male: 53.82%). Confirmatory factor analysis showed supportive fit indices for the three Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory scales (CFI: 0.977–1.000; SRMR: 0.004–0.78) and the Self‐Care Self‐Efficacy scale (CFI: 1.000; SRMR: 0.014). All scales demonstrated adequate internal consistency (0.89–0.99) and test–retest reliability (0.85–0.95). Construct validity was confirmed through correlations between Self‐Care Self‐Efficacy, each Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory scale, and global health status.

Conclusion

The Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory and Self‐Care Self‐Efficacy scales demonstrated excellent psychometric qualities and construct validity when administered to patients with cancer. Future research should explore self‐care behaviours across different diseases and cultural contexts.

Implications For the Profession

These tools can help develop targeted educational programs, improving patient outcomes.

Impact

Currently, there is a lack of knowledge regarding self‐care behaviours in patients with cancer. These tools enable healthcare professionals to identify patient needs, design personalised interventions, and monitor their effectiveness over time.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Supporting Parents of Adolescents With Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review of Interventions
Authors: Scripps Emma , Sutherland Daniel , Langdon Peter E. , Hastings Richard P. , Gray Kylie M.
Published: February 2025

Background

This review aimed to synthesise the literature about interventions for parents of adolescents with intellectual disability, including parental experience of receiving interventions and intervention effectiveness.

Methods

Eligible interventions aimed to improve parenting skills and/or parent–adolescent relationships, adolescent behavioural/emotional problems and/or parent well‐being. ASSIA, EMBASE, Medline, PsycINFO and Web of Science were last searched on 11 July 2024. The TIDieR checklist and the MMAT were used for quality appraisal. A narrative synthesis was conducted. (Pre‐registration: PROSPERO CRD42022384409).

Results

Twelve studies with 1041 families were included. Intervention descriptions were detailed; however, study quality was mixed. Nearly all studies reported the intervention was associated with positive effects on parenting, parent–adolescent relationships, adolescent behaviour/emotional problems or parent well‐being. Three randomised controlled trials (RCTs) offer the strongest evidence but are limited in quality. All studies investigating parent experiences reported positive responses.

Conclusions

High‐quality studies (e.g., RCTs) are needed to enable conclusions about efficacy and effectiveness.
Geomorphological River Characteristics Explain Species Turnover in Amphibians, Reptiles and Lemurs in Madagascar's Eastern Rainforests
Authors: Schüßler Dominik , Bremer Jonas , Sauerwein Martin , Radespiel Ute
Published: February 2025

Aim

The riverine barrier hypothesis is often tested as a driver for allopatric speciation. Rivers are usually treated as static landscape features characterised by their width and elevation of their headwaters. We aim to investigate the role of rivers as barriers using a comprehensive database of geomorphological characteristics by assessing their influence on species turnover rates.

Location

Eastern Madagascar.

Taxon

Sixty‐two taxa from 11 genera of lemurs, amphibians and reptiles.

Methods

We compiled 21 geomorphological variables for 45 major rivers, estimated species turnover rates from species assemblages on either side and modelled the influence of river characteristics on species diversity. Topographic depressions, identified from longitudinal river profiles, and landscape heterogeneity were further analysed as potential palaeoclimatic refugia and alternative speciation drivers.

Results

A total of 24 rivers acted as species barriers. Three of these had disproportionately high species turnover rates and shared a set of distinct geomorphological features like the maximum elevation of the watershed, high flow accumulation values at the outlet and at an elevation of 800 m and a high concavity of the longitudinal river profile. Other variables like landscape heterogeneity along the main river channel and length of the coastal plain further helped to differentiate between rivers with intermediate turnover rates. Species richness peaked in northeastern Madagascar, a region with the highest abundance of topographic depressions and inferred palaeo‐wetlands.

Main Conclusions

Geomorphological river characteristics effectively explained variations in species turnover rates. However, it remains uncertain whether rivers functioned as secondary dispersal barriers and thereby maintainers of species diversity, rather than as primary drivers of allopatric speciation. Additionally, we emphasise the role of refugia during palaeoclimatic oscillations, which are often associated with topographic depressions. Overall, integrating rivers as dynamic fluvial systems through space and time into biogeographic studies offers valuable insights into speciation, dispersal and the persistence of taxa.
Understanding the swimming performance, behaviour and metabolism of the rare juvenile Kaluga sturgeon (Huso dauricus) for its conservation and management
Authors: Zhu Guanyu , Ma Bo
Published: February 2025

The Kaluga sturgeon, Huso dauricus, is a rare fish species found in the Heilongjiang River basin of China, primarily within the mainstream of the Heilongjiang River. However, recent years have witnessed the degradation of its wild population due to factors such as overfishing, water pollution and water conservancy construction. To safeguard the genetic diversity of H. dauricus, it is essential to investigate its swimming capabilities, behaviour and metabolic rate during physical activity. This research yields fundamental insights and technical support for fishery enhancement, release strategies, artificial breeding and fishway design. In this study, we assessed critical swimming speed, burst swimming speed and oxygen consumption of H. dauricus. High‐speed cameras recorded H. dauricus' swimming behaviour at various speeds, enabling a detailed analysis of tail beat frequency, tail beat amplitude and motion step length (LS). This study contributes crucial baseline data for not only understanding fish behaviour in the Heilongjiang basin but also being a vital technical support for fish stocking initiatives and the design of fish passage facilities in water conservancy projects. These findings hold significant implications for protecting and restoring H. dauricus germplasm resources in the region.
Lymphocystis Disease Virus Infection in Cultured Three‐Spot Gourami (Trichogaster trichopterus) in Brazil
Authors: Marcelino Sóstenes A. C. , Gorza Leonardo L. , Carneiro Sarah P. , Oliveira Ellen C. , Nogueira Luiz F. F. , Figueiredo Henrique C. P. , Ramirez Matheus A. , Armien Anibal G. , Tavares Guilherme C. , Pierezan Felipe
Published: February 2025

Lymphocystis disease virus (LCDV) infection induces massive hypertrophy of dermal cells with intracellular accumulation of virions, resulting in skin nodules that are observed to the naked eye. In September 2022, an ornamental fish producer noted white spots and nodules on the skin and fins of a three‐spot gourami (Trichogaster trichopterus) population, which compromised the aesthetic of the fish. The disease only affected this fish species in the farm and was intermittent. Ten diseased and four apparently healthy fish were collected during the first sampling, and 20 diseased fish were collected approximately 1 year after for a follow‐up examination. Macroscopically, the fish presented isolated or small clusters of white to grey nodules, measuring 0.1–0.5 mm, concentrated on the fins and caudal peduncle. Histologically, nodules in the skin and internal viscera were composed of numerous hypertrophied cells with nucleolar components and karyomegaly and thick hyaline cell walls. Virions, with a diameter of approximately 180 nm, were visualised in infected interstitial cells in the skin through transmission electron microscopy. The presence of LCDV in the skin, spleen, and kidney was confirmed by specific PCR. Phylogenetic analysis of the MCP gene revealed that the isolates from Brazilian gouramis belonged to the cluster of LCDV genogroup VI, similar to an unclassified virus identified in a population of gouramis in Korea. This report describes the pathological and molecular findings of LCDV infection in cultured three‐spot gourami in Brazil.
The Deubiquitinase USP2 Modulates Photic Entrainment of the Circadian Clock at the Level of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
Authors: Srikanta Shashank B. , Brown Thomas W. , Malescot Antoine , Cloutier Marie‐Ève , Zhu Lei , Coutanson Christine , Malki Maryam , Storch Kai‐Florian , Rungta Ravi , Cayouette Michel , Dkhissi‐Benyahya Ouria , Cermakian Nicolas
Published: February 2025

Ubiquitin‐specific peptidase 2 (USP2) is a deubiquitinase (DUB) with a diversity of functions in physiology. One of these functions is the regulation of circadian rhythms, which are physiological rhythms with a period of ~24 h. Previous studies have indicated a role for USP2 in photic entrainment, the process by which circadian clocks synchronize to environmental light cues. Here, we investigated the implication of USP2 in this process, using Usp2 knockout (KO) mice. Using different light treatments and running wheel recordings, we established that USP2 controls entrainment of the clock to light cues at dusk. Further, we showed that Usp2 is expressed throughout the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the site of the central clock, and in the retina. This raised the question of where USP2 acts on circadian photoreception. We found that it is not within the retina, as retinas of Usp2 KO mice have an intact structure and unaltered photoreception through intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. Moreover, KO of Usp2 within the retina does not alter clock entrainment to light. In contract, KO of Usp2 in the SCN causes a light entrainment phenotype similar to full‐body KO mice, showing that the action of USP2 in modulating photic entrainment predominantly takes place in the SCN. Finally, within the SCN, we found that induction of clock gene Per1 and activation of MAPK/ERK pathway in response to light were blunted in Usp2 KO mice. Altogether, we established a key role for USP2 in regulating photic entrainment by modulating light‐responsive pathways within the SCN.

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Unique Nerve Tissue‐Restricted T‐Cell Clones in Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
Authors: van Lieverloo G. G. A. , Anang D. C. , Adrichem M. E. , Coert B. A. , Aronica A. E. , Wieske L. , van Schaik I. N. , de Vries N. , Eftimov F.
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an immune‐mediated disorder characterized by peripheral nerve damage. Although T lymphocytes (T‐cells) are implicated in the pathogenesis of CIDP, we previously observed that the frequency of highly expanded T‐cell clones (HECs) in peripheral blood of CIDP patients was not different from healthy controls. To investigate if local T‐cells might be pathogenic, we employed next‐generation sequencing to compare the TCRβ repertoire between peripheral blood and nerve tissue of CIDP patients.

Methods

Adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing (AIRR‐Seq) of the TCRβ chain was conducted on peripheral blood and nerve tissue obtained from three newly diagnosed CIDP patients.

Results

All patients showed high numbers of highly expanded TCRβ clones in nerve tissue that were not detected or detected only in very low frequencies in blood, whereas in blood other HECs were found. Clustering analysis based on CDR3‐similarity showed that these nerve tissue‐restricted TCRβ clones were distinct from blood clones, as evidenced by the absence of prominent clusters.

Interpretation

Unique nerve tissue‐restricted TCRβ clones may indicate a highly localized immune response with localized expansion and/or retention of T‐cells that could contribute to the pathomechanism of CIDP.

Further characterization of the phenotype, antigen target and functionality of these T‐cells is essential to determine their pathogenic role.
The Efficacy of 308‐nm Excimer Laser With TopicalBimatoprost 0.03% for Facial Vitiligo
Authors: Ghiasi Maryam , Isazade Ahdie , Marhamati Tahereh , Lajevardi Vahideh , Shakoei Safoura
Published: February 2025

Background

Vitiligo is a commonly acquired autoimmune pigmentary disorder. Some patients resist conventional treatments, leading to the search for combination therapies.

Aims

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of 308‐nm excimer laser monotherapy versus combined treatment with topical bimatoprost 0.03% in patients with facial vitiligo.

Patients and Methods

A single‐blind randomized clinical trial was conducted at Razi Hospital, Tehran, on 38 patients with facial vitiligo who had at least one facial vitiligo patch and had not undergone treatment in the past 3 months. The patients were randomly allocated to either the intervention group (n = 18) or the control group (n = 20). Both groups received 308‐nm EL therapy twice weekly for 15 weeks, while the intervention group additionally applied 0.03% bimatoprost solution daily. The patients were visited at the end of every 5 weeks and after the 15th week. Efficacy was evaluated using the scale for improvement assessment (SAI), visual analog scale satisfaction (VASS), and visual analog scale improvement (VASI). Data analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney and t‐tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results

Of the total patients, 27 (71.05%) were female and 11 (28.95%) were male. The male‐to‐female ratio was 50% in the intervention group and 33.33% in the control group. The mean VASI score, as the primary outcome, showed a significant increase over time in the intervention group (p ≤ 0.001), increasing from 4.53 to 7.20 (an increase of 2.67 units). Additionally, the intervention had a significant effect on the VASI outcome compared to the control (p ≤ 0.001; mean difference: 2.55 [1.63 to 3.47]). As the secondary outcomes, the mean VASS and SAI scores significantly decreased over time in the intervention group (p ≤ 0.05). The intervention also significantly affected the VASS and SAI outcomes compared to the control (p ≤ 0.001). The side effects of the intervention group were hypertrichosis in three patients and erythema burning in one patient.

Conclusions

Adding bimatoprost 0.03% to the treatment regimen may improve the outcomes of patients with facial vitiligo who are resistant to conventional treatments.