bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of sleep duration and quality with serum testosterone concentrations among men and women: NHANES 2011–2016
Authors: Hernández‐Pérez Jesus Gibran , Taha Shaden , Torres‐Sánchez Luisa E. , Villasante‐Tezanos Alejandro , Milani Sadaf A. , Baillargeon Jacques , Canfield Steven , Lopez David S.
Published: July 2023

Background

The association between testosterone concentrations and sleep duration is poorly understood.

Objective

To evaluate the association between sleep duration and quality with serum testosterone concentrations and its variation by sex and age.

Methods

Data were analyzed for 8748 men and women (≥20 years old) who participated in the cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011–2016, a cross‐sectional study. Total testosterone (ng/dL) was measured and categorized (low, moderate, and high) based on established cut‐offs for men and its tertile distribution among women. Sleep duration was classified as ≤6, 7–8, and ≥9 h. Sleep quality was classified as poor or good based on the frequency of trouble falling or staying asleep or sleeping too much. Weighted multivariable adjusted and multinomial logistic regression models were conducted to assess these associations.

Results

The association between sleep duration and testosterone concentrations, varied according to sex and age. Sleep deprivation (≤6 h) was associated with high testosterone (odds ratio = 3.62; 95% confidence interval: 1.37, 9.53) among young men (20–40 years old); meanwhile, middle‐aged men (41–64 years old) who reported more sleep duration had low testosterone (odds ratio = 2.03; 95% confidence interval: 1.10, 3.73). A J‐shaped association between sleep duration and low testosterone (odds ratio≤6 h = 1.57; 95% confidence interval: 1.10, 2.27; odds ratio≥9 h = 2.06; 95% confidence interval: 1.18, 3.59) was observed in women aged 41–64 years. We did not find any association with sleep quality.

Conclusion

The association of sleep duration with serum testosterone concentrations varies with sex and age group. Prospective studies are warranted to confirm these sex and age group differences.
Mid‐term outcomes of minimally invasive infrapubic approach for inflatable penile prosthesis implantation: A single‐center study and literature review
Authors: Di Pierro Giovanni Battista , Di Lascio Giovanni , Lemma Andrea , Grande Pietro , Frisenda Marco , Del Giudice Francesco , Antonini Gabriele , Nardi Francesco , De Berardinis Ettore , Cristini Cristiano , Franco Giorgio , Sciarra Alessandro , Salciccia Stefano
Published: July 2023

Background

The minimally invasive infrapubic approach (MIIA) for inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) placement has shown favorable peri‐operative safety and efficacy profile, but scarce data exist on long‐term follow‐up.

Objectives

We investigated the safety and efficacy of IPP implantation via the MIIA after a minimum 5‐year follow‐up.

Materials and methods

We identified data of implanted patients prospectively included in our institutional database. Complications and functional outcomes were assessed by using validated tools. Specifically, quality of life and patient satisfaction were evaluated by the Quality of Life and Sexuality with Penile Prosthesis (QoLSPP) questionnaire. Kaplan–Meier method was used to analyze IPP survival (defined as a working IPP).

Results

Overall, 67 patients implanted by MIIA with a median (IQR) age of 64 years (61−70) were included. The median (IQR) follow‐up duration was 71 months (63−80). Fifteen (22%) patients experienced complications: minor (Clavien ≤2) events included changes in penile sensitivity (n = 1; 1.5%), orgasmic dysfunction (n = 1; 1.5%), pain (n = 5; 7%), urinary tract infection (n = 2; 3%), and chronic discomfort (n = 1; 1.5%); major (Clavien 3) complications were represented by mechanical failure (n = 3; 4.5%), IPP infection (n = 1; 1.5%), and cylinder protrusion (n = 1; 1.5%). The estimated IPP survival was 94% (95% CI, 91.4−96.6), 92.5% (95% CI, 89.7−95.3), and 92.5% (95% CI, 89.7−95.3) at 3, 5, and 7 years after implantation, respectively. In patients using the device at follow‐up (n = 61; 91%), median (IQR) scores for QoLSPP domains demonstrated favorable functional outcomes and patient satisfaction: functional 21 (19−23), personal 16 (15−18), relational 14 (12−15), and social 12 (11−14).

Discussion and conclusion

This study represents the longest follow‐up using validated tools to assess the outcomes of IPP implantation via MIIA so far. IPP placement via MIIA confirms to be safe and to offer high satisfaction to both patients and partners at mid‐term evaluation.
Locating a shadowy state in queer, feminist politics
Authors: Majumder Atreyee
Published: July 2023

In this commentary, part of a book forum on Srila Roy's (2022) book Changing the Subject: Feminist and Queer Politics in Neoliberal India, I argue that the feminist and queer movement, in response to the neoliberal turn in India, is not totally separate from the Indian state formations. In fact, a shadowy state emerges in the affective life of citizens as an expression of what Timothy Mitchell would have called “state effect.”
Editorial: Increased risk of cervical dysplasia with immunomodulator use in IBD
Authors: Kane Sunanda
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kreijne et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17555
Letter: Combatting sarcopenia to improve clinical outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tassone Daniel , Hartley Imogen , Ding Nik Sheng
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Gold et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17498
Editorial: LAG‐3‐depleting monoclonal antibody: a potential treatment for patients with ulcerative colitis?
Authors: Lobatón Triana , Truyens Marie
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to D'Haens et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17557
Editorial: Will MRI‐PDFF become the new standard for steatosis assessment in NAFLD?
Authors: Pappa Angeliki , Wenzl Tobias
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kim et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17564 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17619
Editorial: MTTP, hepatic steatosis and plasma lipids – still more questions than answers
Authors: Chen Vincent L.
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Schneider et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17566 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17624
Editorial: Pip pip to PIPs (post‐ inflammatory polyps) as a neoplasia risk factor in IBD? Authors' reply
Authors: Kirchgesner Julien , Beaugerie Laurent
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Wolf et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17495 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17565
Letter: Should metabolically healthy NAFLD also be included in the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome?
Authors: Lu Linjie , Wen Yu , Zhai Haoliang , Shen Hong
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Fu et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17397
Editorial: Let your muscles do the talking—what can muscle quality tell us about hepatic fibrosis?
Authors: Petroff David , Wiegand Johannes , Karlas Thomas
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Lee et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17601 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17627
Editorial: Will MRI‐PDFF become the new standard for steatosis assessment in NAFLD? Authors' reply
Authors: Huang Daniel Q. , Loomba Rohit
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kim et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17564 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17606
Editorial: MTTP, hepatic steatosis, and plasma lipids—still more questions than answers. Authors' reply
Authors: Hehl Leonida , Schneider Carolin Victoria , Rader Daniel J.
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Schneider et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17566 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17611
Editorial: Let your muscles do the talking—what can muscle quality tell us about hepatic fibrosis? Authors' reply
Authors: Lee Yun Kyu , Koo Bo Kyung , Kim Won
Published: July 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Lee et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17601 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17618
Effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms of the folylpolyglutamate synthase gene on pemetrexed administration‐induced nephropathy
Authors: Mitarai Yuki , Tanino Ryosuke , Nakashima Kazuhisa , Hotta Takamasa , Isobe Takeshi , Tsubata Yukari
Published: July 2023

Aims

Long‐term administration of pemetrexed (PEM) in patients with lung cancer can cause renal damage, leading to treatment discontinuation. Previous reports have suggested that specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the folylpolyglutamate synthase (FPGS) gene affect therapeutic efficacy; however, whether the FPGS SNPs affect renal function is unclear. Identifying SNPs related to renal damage during PEM administration may help predict the decrease in renal function caused by PEM.

Methods

We retrospectively examined age, sex, body weight, total administered PEM, combined platinum, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and serum creatinine (SCr) levels before and after PEM administration in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer and searched for the alleles of FPGS SNPs (rs1544105 and rs10106) using DNA extracted from whole blood samples of patients.

Results

Renal function decreased after PEM administration in 26 cases overall. The SCr and eGFR indices showed decreased renal function irrespective of concomitant cisplatin use. Based on promoter activity and miRNA binding predictions, rs1544105‐C and rs10106‐T were hypothesized to increase FPGS expression. Single SNP analyses showed no significant differences in renal function between groups with and without each SNP. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the most significant factors for decreased renal function were sex on SCr and the number of SNPs on eGFR. In subgroup analyses, the patients with rs10106‐T showed a decline in renal function in the older group.

Conclusions

The number of FPGS SNPs may contribute to PEM‐induced renal impairment. Detecting FPGS SNPs may help predict PEM‐induced renal damage.
An assessment of the effects of neurokinin1receptor antagonism against nausea and vomiting: Relative efficacy, sites of action and lessons for future drug development
Authors: Andrews Paul L. R. , Golding John F. , Sanger Gareth J.
Published: July 2023

Abroad‐spectrumanti‐vomiting effect of neurokinin1receptor antagonists (NK1RA), shown in pre‐clinical animal studies, has been supported by a more limited range of clinical studies in different indications. However, this review suggests that compared with vomiting, the self‐reported sensation of nausea is less affected or possibly unaffected (depending on the stimulus) by NK1receptor antagonism, a common finding for anti‐emetics. The stimulus‐independent effects of NK1RAs against vomiting are explicable by actions within the central pattern generator (ventral brainstem) and the nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS; dorsal brainstem), with additional effects on vagal afferent activity for certain stimuli (e.g., highly emetogenic chemotherapy). The central pattern generator and NTS neurones are multifunctional so the notable lack of obvious effects of NK1RAs on other reflexes mediated by the same neurones suggests that their anti‐vomiting action is dependent on the activation state of the pathway leading to vomiting. Nausea requires activation of cerebral pathways by projection of information from the NTS. Although NK1receptors are present in cerebral nuclei implicated in nausea, and imaging studies show very high receptor occupancy at clinically used doses, the variable or limited ability of NK1RAs to inhibit nausea emphasizes: (i) our inadequate understanding of the mechanisms of nausea; and (ii) that classification of a drug as ananti‐emeticmay give a false impression of efficacy against nauseavs. vomiting. We discuss the potential mechanisms for the differential efficacy of NK1RA and the implications for future development of drugs that can effectively treat nausea, an area of unmet clinical need.
Attentional asymmetries in peripheral vision
Authors: Klatt Stefanie , Noël Benjamin , Schrödter Robin
Published: July 2023

Previous research on the use of peripheral vision to identify two spatially separated stimuli simultaneously has led to the conclusion that the focus of attention has the form of a symmetric ellipse with a broader expansion along the horizontal compared to the vertical meridian. However, research on pseudoneglect has indicated that attention is not symmetrically distributed to the whole visual field. Here, we test if the attention window is indeed symmetrical with regard to its shape and resolution during peripheral vision. The results indicate that the position of those stimuli relative to the focus of attention influences the ability to identify a given set of stimuli. Specifically, stimuli presented to the left and top of the fixation point were more frequently identified correctly compared to those presented to the right bottom. That is, the attention window is rather not symmetric, which must be considered in future studies on the nature of the focus of attention.
CIA‐II is associated with lower‐grade glioma survival and cell proliferation
Authors: Xiao Feng , Zhu Hong , Guo Yun , Zhang Zhe , Sun Gufeng , Xiao Yao , Hu Guowen , Huang Kai , Guo Hua
Published: July 2023

Background

The role of CIA‐II has been clarified in several types of tumors; however, whether dysregulated CIA‐II expression is also involved in the pathophysiology of lower‐grade glioma (LGG) remains undisclosed.

Methods

A comprehensive pan‐cancer analysis of the expression patterns and prognostic significance of CIA‐II in miscellaneous tumors was undertaken. Subsequently, a detailed bioinformatics analysis was executed to identify putative correlations between CIA‐II expression and clinical features, prognosis, biological functions, immunological characteristics, genomic alterations, and chemotherapeutics in LGG. In vitro studies were implemented to examine the potential roles of CIA‐II in LGG.

Results

CIA‐II expression was found to be abnormally elevated in a variety of tumors, including LGG. Additionally, patients with LGG with higher CIA‐II expression owned worse prognosis. Importantly, the results declared that CIA‐II expression was an independent prognostic indicator for LGG. Moreover, the expression of CIA‐II was tightly interrelated with immune cell infiltration, gene mutations, and chemotherapeutics in LGG. In vitro studies revealed that CIA‐II was increased and strongly related to the cell proliferation in LGG.

Conclusion

CIA‐II may be an independent prognostic factor and a serviceable therapeutic target in LGG.
Levodopa improved different motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's disease by reducing the functional connectivity of specific thalamic subregions
Authors: Liu Wan , Shen Yang , Zhong Yuan , Sun Yu , Yang Jiaying , Zhang Wenbin , Yan Lei , Liu Weiguo , Yu Miao
Published: July 2023

Background

The thalamus is an important relay station for the motor circuit of human. Levodopa can reverse the clinical manifestations by modulating the function of motor circuits, but its detailed mechanisms are still not fully understood. We aimed to explore (1) the mechanism by which levodopa modulates the functional connectivity (FC) in the subregions of the thalamus; (2) the relationship between the changed FC and the improvement of motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients.

Methods

Resting‐state functional MRI was used to scan 36 PD patients and 37 healthy controls. The FC between the subregions in the thalamus and the whole brain was measured and compared under different medication states of PD patients. The correlation between the improvement of motor symptoms and changes in FC in the thalamus subregions was examined.

Results

The PD on state exhibited decreased FC between the right pre‐motor thalamus and the right postcentral gyrus, as well as the right lateral pre‐frontal thalamus and the right postcentral gyrus. These decreases were positively correlated with the improvement of resting tremor. The PD on state also exhibited decreased FC between the left lateral pre‐frontal thalamus and right paracentral lobule, which was positively correlated with the improvement of bradykinesia.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that levodopa treats PD by decreasing the FC between the thalamus subregions and pre/post‐central cortex. Our results provide a basis for further exploration of the functional activity of thalamic subregions and offer new insights into the precision treatment in PD patients
Narcissus recurvus Haw. A crisis of identity
Authors: Compton James
Published: July 2023

Narcissus poeticus L. is a notably variable species: this paper explores the history of the name ‘recurvus’ and attempts to shed some light on the issues concerning the correct naming of the variant of N. poeticus that exhibits reflexed or recurved tepals.
Intestinal expression patterns of transcription factors and markers for interstitial cells in the larval zebrafish
Authors: Nikaido Masataka , Shirai Ayaka , Mizumaki Yumiko , Shigenobu Shuji , Ueno Naoto , Hatta Kohei
Published: July 2023

For the digestion of food, it is important for the gut to be differentiated regionally and to have proper motor control. However, the number of transcription factors that regulate its development is still limited. Meanwhile, the interstitial cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are necessary for intestinal motility in addition to the enteric nervous system. There are anoctamine1 (Ano1)‐positive and platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (Pdgfra)‐positive interstitial cells in mammal, but Pdgfra‐positive cells have not been reported in the zebrafish. To identify new transcription factors involved in GI tract development, we used RNA sequencing comparing between larval and adult gut. We isolated 40 transcription factors that were more highly expressed in the larval gut. We demonstrated expression patterns of the 13 genes, 7 of which were newly found to be expressed in the zebrafish larval gut. Six of the 13 genes encode nuclear receptors. The osr2 is expressed in the anterior part, while foxP4 in its distal part. Also, we reported the expression pattern of pdgfra for the first time in the larval zebrafish gut. Our data provide fundamental knowledge for studying vertebrate gut regionalization and motility by live imaging using zebrafish.
The evolving continuum of dysglycaemia: Non‐diabetic hyperglycaemia in older adults
Authors: Golding J. , Hope S. V. , Chakera A. J. , Puttanna A.
Published: July 2023

Identifying non‐diabetic hyperglycaemia (NDH) and intervening to halt the progression to type 2 diabetes has become an essential component of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular risk reduction. Diabetes prevention programs have been instigated to address the increasing prevalence of NDH and type 2 diabetes by targeting lifestyle modifications. Evidence suggests that the risk of progression from NDH to type 2 diabetes declines with age, and that a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in older adults is not associated with the same risk of adverse consequences as it is in younger age groups. The current definition of NDH is not adjusted based on a person's age. Therefore, there is debate about the emphasis that should be placed upon a diagnosis of NDH in older adults. This article will explore the evidence and current clinical practice surrounding dysglycaemia through the spectrum of different age ranges, and the potential implications this has for older adults.
Suboptimal macronutrient ratios promote cannibalism in a generalist herbivore (Trichoplusia ni)
Authors: Randall Brendan A. , Cinto Mejía Elizeth , Hauri Kayleigh C. , Wetzel William C.
Published: July 2023

Discretional cannibalism is a widespread phenomenon among lepidopteran herbivores. Herbivores encounter variation in dietary nutrient quality when foraging, which alters feeding behaviour, as well as population‐ and trophic‐level dynamics. For example, plant resistance traits directly influence feeding patterns in insect herbivores through reduced consumption of plant tissue and increased rates of cannibalism.

However, the effects of dietary composition, in particular unbalanced macronutrient ratios, on driving cannibalism remain unknown.

We examined the effects of unbalanced macronutrient ratios on cannibalism in the generalist caterpillar Trichoplusia ni using an artificial diet experiment with varied ratios of two important macronutrients: protein and carbohydrates. We quantified cannibalistic behaviour from the second instar to pupation and measured survival among cannibals and non‐cannibals to understand the long‐term and short‐term costs and benefits of cannibalism.

Caterpillars in high carbohydrate, low protein treatments cannibalised 20% more than the optimum control diet treatment, whereas herbivores in high protein, low carbohydrate treatments cannibalised 33% more than herbivores reared on the optimum macronutrient diet treatment. Survival of cannibals in macronutrient‐deficient diet treatments was 10.4%, compared with 76.9% for cannibals in the optimal macronutrient diet treatment.

While previous work demonstrates the importance of induced chemical defence in promoting shifts to cannibalism, our results indicate that unbalanced macronutrient ratios can also promote cannibalism in insect herbivores. We propose that understanding how unbalanced macronutrient ratios drive cannibalism yields insight into how dietary quality, including both plant resistance traits and plant nutrients, influences behavioural plasticity and mediates plant–herbivore interactions.
Platelet transfusions and predictors of bleeding in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Mo Allison , Wood Erica , Shortt Jake , Hu Erin , McQuilten Zoe
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to describe the burden of thrombocytopenia, supportive care practices, bleeding complications and predictors of bleeding in MDS patients within a large Australian hospital network, to better understand the use and effectiveness of platelet transfusions in MDS.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of patients aged ≥18 years with MDS, chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia or MDS/myeloproliferative overlap neoplasm admitted from 2016 to 2018 was conducted. Data were obtained from hospital medical records.

Results

One hundred seventy‐nine patients (median age 78 years, 61.5% male) were identified. The median platelet count at first admission was 90 × 109/L. Twenty‐eight (15.6%) patients had severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count <20 × 109/L), of whom nine (32.1%) received prophylactic platelet transfusions, five (17.9%) received tranexamic acid (TXA), seven (25%) received both platelet transfusions and TXA, and seven (25%) received no treatment. Bleeding events requiring hospitalisation occurred in 20 (11.2%) patients. Bleeding was not predicted by presenting platelet count, TXA use, platelet transfusion or anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapies. Three patients died of bleeding, at varying platelet counts (18, 38 and 153 × 109/L).

Conclusion

Thrombocytopenia is common in MDS. Although guidelines recommend otherwise, prophylactic platelet transfusions were commonly used for severe thrombocytopenia. Despite the majority of patients receiving platelet transfusions and/or TXA, 11% developed major bleeding occurring at a wide range of platelet counts.
Sex and stress hormone dysregulation as clinical manifestations of hypothalamic function in migraine disorder: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Beech Erin L. , Riddell Nina , Murphy Melanie J. , Crewther Sheila G.
Published: July 2023

Migraine is a leading cause of disability in young adults. It occurs more frequently in females, often comorbidly with stress disorders, suggesting an association with hypothalamic sex and stress hormonal function and a likely interaction with autonomic nervous system activation. Thus, this study aimed to meta‐analyse current literature pertaining to female and male sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone and testosterone concentration), hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA axis) cortisol responses and heart rate variability (HRV) in migraineurs and controls aged 13–65 years. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, CINAHL and Web of Science databases on 29/08/2022 identified 29 studies for meta‐analysis (encompassing 719 migraineur and 592 control participants) that met inclusion and NHLBI risk of bias criteria. Results demonstrated that estrogen concentrations of female migraineurs were reduced (g = −.60, 95% CI [−.91, −.29], p < .001) in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, compared to controls. No differences were found in progesterone levels overall in female migraineurs, nor in testosterone levels in male migraineurs compared to controls. Further, early diurnal cortisol concentrations were elevated (g = .32, 95% CI [.00, .63], p = .036) in female and male migraineurs compared to controls, though no differences were found in HRV of female or male migraineurs compared to controls. These findings of dysregulation of estrogen in females and cortisol dysregulation in female and male migraineurs indicate perturbed hypothalamic function and highlight the association of migraine with stress and the need for further rigorous investigation of hypothalamic neuroendocrine functions in migraineurs of both sexes.
High‐dose folic acid and cancer risk; unjustified concerns by von Wrede and colleagues regarding our paper
Authors: Bjørk Marte‐Helene , Tomson Torbjörn , Dreier Julie Werenberg , Alvestad Silje , Gilhus Nils Erik , Gissler Mika , Igland Jannicke , Leinonen Maarit K. , Sun Yuelian , Vegrim Håkon Magne , Zoega Helga , Christensen Jakob
Published: July 2023

Women using antiseizure medication in pregnancy are often advised to use high doses of folic acid supplements (1mg to 5 mg) to reduce the risk of teratogenicity. Recently, we published a report showing an association between maternal prescription fill of high dose folic acid in relation to pregnancy and childhood cancer in the offspring. The report has sparked a debate about which dose of folic acid that should be recommended in pregnancy in women in need of antiseizure medication. In this Commentary, we explain our findings and the method used in our report, and answer recent questions that have emerged.
Anuran juveniles avoid preying on aggressive ant species
Authors: Naganawa Ken , Okada Yasukazu
Published: July 2023

Ants occupy huge biomass in the terrestrial ecosystem. Several ant species are highly aggressive and equipped with venomous stingers and/or formic acid. Therefore, ants are abundant but potentially unpalatable prey for some predators. So far, however, the role of ants as prey is not well understood. In this study, we focused anurans (frogs and toads) as one of the major predators of terrestrial arthropods. Using two anuran species and three ant species sharing the habitats, we asked two questions. First, we hypothesized that the anuran preference for prey is ant‐species specific, and tested whether anuran prey preference is affected by ant aggressiveness. Second, we hypothesized that the anurans may innately avoid aggressive ants. To test this hypothesis, ant‐naïve anuran juveniles (Bufo toad and Rana frog) were reared from tadpoles, and juveniles' preferences for three ant species with variable aggressiveness were tested. The exposure to different ant species showed that anuran juveniles highly avoided aggressive ants (Lasius and Brachyponera) compared to less aggressive ants (Tetramorium). Additionally, ant‐naive juvenile toads avoided the aggressive ants without prior experience. In contrast, ant‐naïve juvenile frogs attacked the most of firstly encountered ants and then learned to avoid the unpalatable ants. These findings suggest that (1) some anurans selectively avoid aggressive ant species, (2) Bufo toads have innate avoidance to some ants, while Rana frogs learn to avoid the unpalatable prey.
Generalized pustular psoriasis‐like widespread eruption following COVID‐19 infection in a patient with spondyloarthropathy on adalimumab
Authors: Kamal Kanika , Riew Grant J. , Hijaz Baraa , Helfgott Simon M. , Laga Alvaro C. , Nambudiri Vinod E.
Published: July 2023

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a form of pustular psoriasis that is distinguished by recurring or persistent outbreaks of non‐acral primary sterile pustules. These eruptions can occur with or without systemic inflammation. Various factors, such as medications, stress and viral infection, have been identified as potential triggers for GPP flares. While several cases have detailed GPP‐like eruptions in the setting of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection, few have explored the interplay between infection and biologic use in the development of GPP. In this case, we detail the history and management of a 45‐year‐old male patient with a prior history of spondyloarthropathy managed on a tumour necrosis factor‐α inhibitor and recent COVID‐19 infection presenting with a new, spreading pustular rash.
Characterization of fatigue behavior of AA2024‐T351 aluminum alloy
Authors: Khadimallah Aymen , Petit Johann , Hfaiedh Naila , Znaidi Amna
Published: July 2023

The paper aims to investigate the fatigue behavior of the widely used AA2024‐T351 aluminum alloy in the aircraft industry. An experimental program was conducted to study the fatigue life and damage behavior under symmetrical tensile‐compressive loading. Cyclic tests in the low cycle fatigue regime were performed under fully reversed total strain amplitudes from 0.6% to 1.2%. The AA2024‐T351 alloy exhibited cyclic hardening until failure. Symmetric high cycle fatigue tests were also performed and the parameters for fatigue life estimation using the Manson–Coffin–Basquin model were identified. Elasto‐plastic behavior was analyzed through stress–strain hysteresis loops, evaluating kinematic and isotropic hardenings. Kinematic hardening was found to be strain amplitude dependent, unlike the isotropic hardening. The evolution of the isotropic variable with the percentage of fatigue life could be described by an exponential law. Fractography investigations showed crack initiation at the specimen border with quasi‐cleavage and then crack propagating by striation before ductile fracture.
Tropical estuarine ecosystem change under the interacting influences of future climate and ecosystem restoration
Authors: Smith Mason , Chagaris David , Paperno Richard , Markwith Scott
Published: July 2023

One of the largest restoration programs in the world, the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) aims to restore freshwater inputs to Everglades wetlands and the Florida Bay estuary. This study predicted how the Florida Bay ecosystem may respond to hydrological restoration from CERP within the context of contemporary projected impacts of sea‐level rise (SLR) and increased future temperatures. A spatial–temporal dynamic model (Ecospace) was used to develop a spatiotemporal food web model incorporating environmental drivers of salinity, salinity variation, temperature, depth, distance to mangrove, and seagrass abundance and was used to predict responses of biomass, fisheries catch, and ecosystem resilience between current and future conditions. Changes in biomass between the current and future scenario suggest a suite of winners and losers, with many estuarine species increasing in both total biomass and spatial distribution. Notable biomass increases were predicted for important forage species, including bay anchovy (+32%), hardhead halfbeak (+19%), and pinfish (+31%), while decreases were predicted in mullet (−88%), clupeids (−55%), hardhead silverside (−15%), mojarras (−117%), and Portunid crabs (−16%). Increases in sportfish biomass included the angler‐preferred spotted seatrout (+9%), red drum (+10%), and gray snapper (+8%), while decreases included sheepshead (−40%), Atlantic tarpon (−73%), and common snook (−507%). Ecosystem resilience and fisheries catch of angler‐preferred species were predicted to improve in the future scenario in total, although a localized decline in resilience predicted for the Central Region may warrant further attention. Our results suggest the Florida Bay ecosystem is likely to achieve restoration benefits in spite of, and in some cases facilitated by, the projected future impacts from climate change due to the system's shallow depth and detrital dominance. The incorporation of climate impacts into long‐term restoration planning using ecosystem modeling in similar systems facing unknown futures of SLR, warming seas, and shifting species distributions is recommended.
Why do people choose not to take part in screening? Qualitative interview study of atrial fibrillation screening nonparticipation
Authors: Hoare Sarah , Thomas Gwilym P. A. , Powell Alison , Armstrong Natalie , Mant Jonathan , Burt Jenni
Published: July 2023

Introduction

While screening uptake is variable, many individuals feel they ‘ought’ to participate in screening programmes to aid the detection of conditions amenable to early treatment. Those not taking part in screening are often presented as either hindered by practical or social barriers or personally at fault. Why some people choose not to participate receives less consideration.

Methods

We explored screening nonparticipation by examining the accounts of participants who chose not to participate in screening offered by a national research trial of atrial fibrillation (AF) screening in England (SAFER: Screening for Atrial Fibrillation with ECG to Reduce stroke). AF is a heart arrhythmia that increases in prevalence with age and increases the risk of stroke. Systematic screening for AF is not a nationally adopted programme within the United Kingdom; it provides a unique opportunity to explore screening nonparticipation outside of the norms and values attached to existing population‐based screening programmes. We interviewed people aged over 65 (n = 50) who declined an invitation from SAFER and analysed their accounts thematically.

Results

Beyond practical reasons for nonparticipation, interviewees challenged the utility of identifying and managing AF earlier. Many questioned the benefits of screening at their age. The trial's presentation of the screening as research made it feel voluntary—something they could legitimately decline.

Conclusion

Nonparticipants were not resistant to engaging in health‐promoting behaviours, uninformed about screening or unsupportive of its potential benefits. Instead, their consideration of the perceived necessity, legitimacy and utility of this screening shaped their decision not to take part.

Patient or Public Contribution

The SAFER programme is guided by four patient and carer representatives. The representatives are embedded within the team (e.g., one is a co‐applicant, another sits on the programme steering committee) and by participating in regular meetings advise on all aspects of the design, management and delivery of the programme, including engaging with interpreting and disseminating the findings. For the qualitative workstream, we established a supplementary patient and public involvement group with whom we regularly consult about research design questions.
Trust and distrust in low‐income Michigan residents during the early COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Waidyaratne Gavisha , Steinbrook Eric , Roy Shalini , Opoku Annabella , Jaffe Kaitlyn , Goold Susan Dorr
Published: July 2023

Background

Trust and distrust have shaped health behaviour during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Since the start of the pandemic, misinformation and polarization eroded trust across the United States. In states like Michigan, pandemic restrictions led to significant unrest. Michiganders also faced disproportionate morbidity and mortality from COVID‐19 during this period.

Objective

The objective of this qualitative study was to understand the individual experiences of trust in low‐income Michiganders during the early COVID‐19 pandemic.

Participants

Twenty‐four participants at or below 200% of the federal poverty line who resided in Michigan were recruited for this study.

Approach

Interviews were conducted during the winter of 2020 using a formal interview guide that addressed sources of information, perceptions of risk and exposure, protective behaviours and impacts of the pandemic at home, work and in receiving healthcare.

Results

Thematic analysis showed that themes of trust and distrust emerged in multiple facets of our participants' experiences, including in the context of information sources, the behaviours of others, health, financial security, employment and overall safety. Trust and distrust in low‐income communities often stemmed from significant financial and economic vulnerabilities and instability in access to healthcare that was exacerbated in the pandemic. Furthermore, participant trust was shaped by internal (e.g., relationships with others) and external (e.g., source of information, social inequity) factors that influenced their perceptions and experiences during the pandemic.

Conclusion

Trust has played an important role in many aspects of the experiences of low‐income communities during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This is important for clinicians to consider as COVID‐19 becomes endemic, and trust continues to impact patients' approaches to vaccines, testing and treatment options.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was designed and conducted with the assistance and input of the members of the DECIDERS Steering Committee, a diverse statewide network of community members in Michigan. The DECIDERS team allows community members to have a voice in the design and conduct of health research, and collaborates with researchers to improve health across the state of Michigan.
Epitaxial Bi5Ti3FeO15 thin films on Nb‐doped SrTiO3 substrates
Authors: Keum Yoon Hyung , Son Jong Yeog
Published: July 2023

We investigated the ferroelectric switching dynamics as well as the multiferroic and piezoelectric properties of highly a‐oriented epitaxial Bi5Ti3FeO15 (BTFO) thin films on Nb‐doped SrTiO3 single crystal substrates. The BTFO thin films favored highly a‐oriented crystallinity because c‐oriented crystallinity decreased under deposition conditions in which substrate temperature and thin film deposition rate were simultaneously lowered. The highly a‐oriented epitaxial BTFO thin films showed the best ferroelectric properties, whereas the highly c‐oriented epitaxial BTFO thin films showed the best ferromagnetic properties. In particular, the BTFO thin films in which a‐ and c‐oriented crystallinity were properly mixed showed the best piezoelectric properties.
Effect of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on atrial tachy‐arrhythmia burden in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices
Authors: Younis Arwa , Arous Tania , Klempfner Robert , Kharsa Adnan , McNitt Scott , Schleede Susan , Polonski Bronislava , Abdallah Zeinab , Buttar Ruppinder , Bodurian Christopher , Tabaja Chadi , Yavin Hagai D. , Shamroz Farooq , Wazni Oussama M. , Wittlin Steven D. , Aktas Mehmet , Goldenberg Ilan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Use of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) was associated with a reduction in atrial fibrillation hospitalizations. Therefore, we aim to evaluate the effects of SGLT2i on atrial tachy‐arrhythmias (ATA) in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs).

Methods

All 13 888 consecutive patients implanted with a CIED in two tertiary medical centers were enrolled. Treatment with SGLT2i was assessed as a time dependent variable. The primary endpoint was the total number of ATA. Secondary endpoints included total number of ventricular tachy‐arrhythmias (VTA), ATA and VTA, and death. All events were independently adjudicated blinded to the treatment. Multivariable propensity score modeling was performed.

Results

During a total follow‐up of 24 442 patient years there were 62 725 ATA and 10 324 VTA events. Use of SGLT2i (N = 696) was independently associated with a significant 22% reduction in the risk of ATA (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.78 [95% confidence interval {CI} = 0.70–0.87]; p < .001); 22% reduction in the risk of ATA/VTA (HR = 0.78 [95% CI = 0.71–0.85]; p < .001); and with a 35% reduction in the risk of all‐cause mortality (HR = 0.65 [95% CI = 0.45–0.92]; p = .015), but was not significantly associated with VTA risk (HR = 0.92 [95% CI = 0.80–1.06]; p = .26). SGLT2i were associated with a lower ATA burden in heart failure (HF) patients but not among diabetes patients (HF: HR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.58–0.80, p < .001 vs. Diabetes: HR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.86–1.05, p = .29; p < .001 for interaction between SGLT2i indication and ATA burden).

Conclusion

Our real world findings suggest that in CIED HF patients, those with SGLT2i had a pronounced reduction in ATA burden and all‐cause mortality when compared with those not on SGLT2i.
Occurrence of entomopathogenic nematodes, Oscheius myriophilus Poinar in Thailand: Preliminary characterization of novel isolates and biological control potential against insect pests
Authors: Onwong Rattanawadee , Sumaya Nanette Hope , Nitjarunkul Achariya , Kerdim Sineenuch , Khwanket Niyaporn , Noosidum Atirach
Published: July 2023

Numerous nematodes in the genus Oscheius possess entomopathogenic abilities. These nematodes also kill their insect hosts by releasing their symbiotic bacteria within 48–72 h. In this study, 12 indigenous isolates of Oscheius myriophilus based on molecular, morphological, and morphometric studies were recovered from different undisturbed soils in Thailand. Moreover, the virulence of 12 O. myriophilus at a rate of 25 IJs/cm2 against fifth‐instar larvae of Galleria mellonella ranged from 56%–86% after 72 h of exposure. Oscheius myriophilus EPNKU40 exhibited the highest efficacy in causing mortality in the insect larvae. It also killed third‐instar larvae of Spodoptera litura and Spodoptera exigua up to 60% after 72 h of exposure. The median lethal concentration (LC50) values of O. myriophilus EPNKU40 against G. mellonella larvae after 48 and 72 h of exposure were 11 and 4 IJs/cm2, respectively. The discovery of O. myriophulus is the first record in Thailand characterized using morphological, morphometric, and molecular diagnostic tools, which have shown lethal effects against insect pests and can later be utilized as biocontrol agents after several comprehensive assessments.
The haematology of clinically healthy, farmed juvenile Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer Bloch)—reference intervals, and indicators of subclinical disease
Authors: Chew Xian Zhe , Gibson‐Kueh Susan
Published: July 2023

This study establishes the blood reference intervals (RIs) for clinically healthy and farmed juvenile Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer), within 4–6 weeks after stocking into flow‐through, marine aquaculture systems. The 90% percentile RIs (n = 156, mean bodyweight 41.8 g) are as follows: glucose (GLU) 2.4–11.3 mmol/L, haematocrit (Hct) 18.9%–39.2%, haemoglobin concentration (Hb) 56.0–85.0 g/L, total plasma protein (TPP) 56.0–77.0 g/L, total red blood cell (RBC) count 4.1–11.2 × 1012/L, total white blood cell (WBC) count 5.3–69.9 × 109/L, total lymphocytes 4.7–51.4 × 109/L, monocytes 0.3–16.2 × 109/L and heterophils count 0.6–8.4 × 109/L. Pearson's method analysis showed weak but significantly positive correlations between fish bodyweight and Hct, Hb, TPP and total RBC count (p < 0.05). Histopathology of 42 of the 156 clinically healthy fish used to derive the RIs, with blood values within the 90% percentile range, did not exhibit any abnormal pathology. In contrast, histopathology from a different group of clinically healthy L. calcarifer (n = 72, mean bodyweight 31.3 g) with blood values falling outside of these established 90% percentile RIs showed that 25% of these fish had severe, chronic granulomatous enteritis, and 13% had severely depleted lipid stores in their liver. Point biserial correlation analysis of blood values from this second group of 72 fish showed that elevated total WBC, monocyte and heterophil counts and reduced Hct levels are significantly associated (p < 0.05) with the occurrence of severe, chronic granulomatous enteritis and depleted lipid stores in their liver. Reduced blood GLU and TPP levels in the second group of fish were significantly associated with fish that had depleted lipid stores in liver (p < 0.05), corroborating a period of malnutrition. This study is among the first to establish blood RIs for clinically healthy, farmed juvenile L. calcarifer and detection of subclinical diseases in fish to support early intervention.
Phylogenetic analysis of Shewanella spp. isolated from fish
Authors: Paździor Ewa , Bomba Arkadiusz , Tłuścik Katarzyna , Nadolna‐Ałtyn Katarzyna , Podolska Magdalena , Reichert Michał , Wasyl Dariusz , Pękala‐Safińska Agnieszka
Published: July 2023

Different species of Shewanella spp. widely inhabit freshwater and marine environments. Some of them are opportunistic fish pathogens. The application of high‐throughput sequencing enabled the characterization and taxonomic reclassification of many Shewanella spp. species. Still, some strains collected from fish need to be better recognized. The aim of the present study was to classify and determine the phylogenetic relationships of Shewanella spp. collected from fish. The complete genomes of 94 strains of Shewanella spp. from different fish species were sequenced using Illumina platform (MiSeq). The 16S rRNA gene, genomic features and whole‐genome relationships of those bacteria were comprehensively analysed in comparison to reference strains. Whole‐genome analysis showed that the tested Shewanella spp. strains were clustered into six groups similar to reference strains of S. xiamenensis, S. oneidensis, S. glacialipiscicola, S. hafniensis, S. baltica and S. oncorhynchi. Our study indicates that the whole‐genome sequence analysis enabled taxonomic classification and assessment of the diversity of the Shewanella spp. strains, as opposed to recently the gold standard method of 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. The high genetic diversity and low similarity to the reference genome of S. oneidensis indicate that the group of strains may be a subspecies or even new species. Furthermore, we showed that the most frequent Shewanella spp. species occurring in freshwater fish in our study is the recently described species S. oncorhynchi.