bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The specialised buzz pollination syndrome poses a partial barrier to plant invasions
Authors: Lopresti Laura C. , Lach Lori , Montesinos Daniel
Published: May 2024

Plants that exhibit generalised pollination syndromes have been hypothesised to become invasive more easily compared with specialists, yet the degree to which specialised pollination traits inhibit plant invasions is unknown. One such specialisation is the buzz pollination syndrome, which encompasses specialised floral traits that restrict pollen access (typically poricidal anthers) and benefits from specialised insect behaviour for pollen extraction.

We reviewed the literature on buzz pollination of invasive plants to assess whether: (1) plant species exhibiting specialised pollination syndromes are underrepresented as invasive species, and (2) species with specialised pollination syndromes that have become invasive can reproduce in the absence of specialist buzzing pollinators.

Synthesis. We found 2.5% (117/4630) of invasive angiosperms have poricidal anthers, which is an underrepresentation of the proportion of global angiosperms that are estimated to have poricidal anthers (6%–10%). Most invasive buzz‐pollinated plants are genetically self‐compatible (97%), but only 43% can set fruit in the absence of a pollinator. Our findings highlight the importance of establishing new pollinator mutualisms for sexual reproduction. However, we identified six non‐buzzing behaviours used to extract pollen from plants with poricidal anthers, which is important where buzzing pollinators may be absent or not attracted to newly introduced plant species.
The Acoustic Index User's Guide: A practical manual for defining, generating and understanding current and future acoustic indices
Authors: Bradfer‐Lawrence Tom , Duthie Brad , Abrahams Carlos , Adam Matyáš , Barnett Ross J. , Beeston Amy , Darby Jennifer , Dell Benedict , Gardner Nick , Gasc Amandine , Heath Becky , Howells Nia , Janson Magnus , Kyoseva Maria‐Viktoria , Luypaert Thomas , Metcalf Oliver C. , Nousek‐McGregor Anna E. , Poznansky Frederica , Ross Samuel R. P.‐J. , Sethi Sarab , Smyth Siobhan , Waddell Emily , Froidevaux Jérémy S. P.
Published: May 2024

Ecoacoustics, the study of environmental sound, is a rapidly growing discipline offering ecological insights at scales ranging from individual organisms to whole ecosystems. Substantial methodological developments over the last 15 years have streamlined extraction of ecological information from audio recordings. One widely used set of methods are acoustic indices, which offer numerical summaries of the spectral, temporal and amplitude patterns in audio recordings.

Currently, the specifics of each index's background, methodology and the soundscape patterns they are designed to summarise, are spread across multiple sources. Critically, details of index calculation are sometimes scarce, making it challenging for users to understand how index values are generated. Discrepancies in understanding can lead to misuse of acoustic indices or reporting of spurious results. This hinders ecological inference, replicability and discourages adoption of these tools for conservation and ecosystem monitoring, where they might otherwise provide useful insight.

Here we present the Acoustic Index User's Guide—an interactive RShiny web app that defines and deconstructs eight of the most commonly used acoustic indices to facilitate consistent application across the discipline. We break the acoustic indices calculations down into easy‐to‐follow steps to better enable practical application and critical interpretation of acoustic indices. We demonstrate typical soundscape patterns using a suite of 91 example audio recordings: 66 real‐world soundscapes from terrestrial, aquatic and subterranean systems around the world, and 25 synthetic files demonstrating archetypal soundscape patterns. Our interpretation figures signpost specific soundscape patterns likely to be reflected in acoustic indices' values.

This RShiny app is a living resource; additional acoustic indices will be added in the future through collaboration with authors of pre‐existing and new indices. The app also serves as a best‐practice template for the information required when publishing new acoustic indices, so that authors can facilitate the widest possible understanding and uptake of their indices. In turn, improved understanding of acoustic indices will aid effective hypothesis generation, application and interpretation in ecological research, ecosystem monitoring and conservation management.
Differential proteomics of circulating extracellular vesicles of placental origin isolated from women with early‐onset preeclampsia reveal aberrant innate immune and hemostasis processes
Authors: Rao Aishwarya , Subedi Rambhadur , Kundu Indra , Idicula‐Thomas Susan , Shinde Uma , Bansal Vandana , Balsarkar Geetha , Mayadeo Niranjan , Das Dhanjit Kumar , Balasinor Nafisa , Madan Taruna
Published: May 2024

Problem

Early‐onset preeclampsia (EOPE) is a severe gestational hypertensive disorder with significant feto‐maternal morbidity and mortality due to uteroplacental insufficiency. Circulating extracellular vesicles of placental origin (EV‐P) are known to be involved in the pathophysiology of EOPE and might serve as an ideal reservoir for its specific biomarkers. Therefore, we aimed to characterize and perform comparative proteomics of circulating EV‐P from healthy pregnant and EOPE women before delivery.

Method of Study

The EV‐P from both groups were isolated using immunoaffinity and were characterized using transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and immunoblotting. Following IgG albumin depletion, the pooled proteins that were isolated from EV‐P of both groups were subjected to quantitative TMT proteomics.

Results

Circulating term EV‐P isolated from both groups revealed ∼150 nm spherical vesicles containing CD9 and CD63 along with placental PLAP and HLA‐G proteins. Additionally, the concentration of EOPE‐derived EV‐P was significantly increased. A total of 208 proteins were identified, with 26 among them being differentially abundant in EV‐P of EOPE women. This study linked the pathophysiology of EOPE to 19 known and seven novel proteins associated with innate immune responses such as complement and TLR signaling along with hemostasis and oxygen homeostasis.

Conclusion

The theory suggesting circulating EVs of placental origin could mimic molecular information from the parent organ—“the placenta”—is strengthened by this study. The findings pave the way for possible discovery of novel prognostic and predictive biomarkers as well as provide insight into the mechanisms driving the pathogenesis of EOPE.
Letter: Fibrates may be safe and effective in patients with primary biliary cholangitis and decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Ao Xiaoyan , Zeng Yu , Wang Xianglin , Fan Xiaoli
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Hofer et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17908 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18067.
Bridging the Chasm Between Cognitive Representations and Formal Structures of Linguistic Meanings
Authors: Mondal Prakash
Published: May 2024

This paper aims to show that properties of cognitive/conceptual representations and formal‐logical structures of linguistic meaning can be inter‐translated, recast, transformed into one another, and so united together, even though cognitive/conceptual representations and formal‐logical structures of linguistic meaning are apparently distinct in ontology and divergent in their form or character. While cognitive/conceptual representations are ultimately rooted in sensory‐motor systems, formal‐logical structures of linguistic meaning are abstractions detached from and independent of the actualized world. This paper sketches out the foundations of how representations of linguistic meaning in terms of cognitive/conceptual structures in Cognitive/Conceptual Semantics can be unified with those in terms of formal‐logical structures in Formal Semantics. This is done by recasting cognitive/conceptual representations in terms of formal‐logical structures of linguistic meaning and re‐encoding formal‐logical structures of linguistic meaning in terms of cognitive/conceptual representations. Then, these two types of semantic representations, thus shown representationally equivalent, will be related to a series of derivations across levels in neuronal networks and dynamics. The general discussion on unifying cognitive/conceptual representations of linguistic meaning with formal‐logical structures is contextualized within the broader context of theorizing in cognitive science.
The impacts of alcohol marketing and advertising, and the alcohol industry's views on marketing regulations: Systematic reviews of systematic reviews
Authors: Giesbrecht Norman , Reisdorfer Emilene , Shield Kevin
Published: May 2024

Issues

Advertising and marketing affect alcohol use; however, no single systematic review has covered all aspects of how they affect alcohol use, and how the alcohol industry views alcohol marketing restrictions.

Approach

Two systematic reviews of reviews were performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items on 2 February 2023. Results were analysed using a narrative synthesis approach.

Key Findings

Twenty‐three reviews were included in the systematic reviews. The first systematic review examined youth and adolescents (11 reviews), digital or internet marketing (3 reviews), alcohol marketing's impact on cognition (3 reviews), and alcohol marketing and policy options (2 reviews). The second systematic review focused on alcohol industry (i.e., importers, producers, distributors, retailers and advertising firms) response to advertising restrictions (four reviews). The reviews indicated that there is evidence that alcohol marketing (including digital marketing) is associated with increased intentions to drink, levels of consumption and harmful drinking among youth and young adults. Studies on cognition indicate that advertisements focusing on appealing contexts and outcomes may be more readily accepted by adolescents, and may be less easily extinguished in this population. The review of the alcohol industry found a strong desire to self‐regulate alcohol advertising.

Implications

We found alcohol advertising and marketing is associated with increased drinking intentions, consumption and harmful drinking. Thus, policies which restrict advertising may be an effective way to reduce alcohol use.

Conclusion

More research is needed to assess all aspects of the observed associations, especially as to how marketing policies impact women and people with alcohol dependence.
Association of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor initiation at glycated haemoglobin <7.5% with reduced major clinical events mediated by low glycated haemoglobin variability
Authors: Cheung Johnny T. K. , Yang Aimin , Wu Hongjiang , Lau Eric S. H. , Lui Juliana , Kong Alice P. S. , Ma Ronald C. W. , Luk Andrea O. Y. , Chow Elaine , Chan Juliana C. N.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Therapeutic inertia, hypoglycaemia and poor treatment persistence can lead to glycaemic fluctuation and poor outcomes in type 2 diabetes (T2D). We compared glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) variability, insulin initiation, severe hypoglycaemia and clinical events in patients with T2D initiated dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP4is) at low versus high HbA1c thresholds.

Methods

Using territory‐wide electronic medical records in Hong Kong, we curated a propensity score‐matched cohort of patients initiated DPP4i at HbA1c <7.5% versus ≥7.5% in 2007‐2019. We expressed the HbA1c variability score (HVS) as a proportion of HbA1c varied by ≥0.5% compared with preceding values. We used the Cox model to compare the risks of insulin initiation and clinical outcomes, adjusted for time‐varying variables between the two groups. Mediation analysis estimated the effects of HbA1c variability on outcomes.

Results

Among 6874 insulin‐naïve patients who initiated DPP4i, 88.7% were treated with metformin and 79.6% with sulphonylureas at baseline (54.9% men; mean age 65.2 ± 11.4 years). After a median follow‐up of 4.6 years, compared with the high‐threshold plus high‐HVS group (≥50%), the low‐threshold plus low‐HVS (<50%) group had reduced hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of insulin initiation (0.35, 0.31‐0.40), severe hypoglycaemia (0.38, 0.34‐0.44), major adverse cardiovascular endpoints (0.76, 0.66‐0.88), heart failure (0.42, 0.36‐0.49), end‐stage kidney disease (0.65, 0.36‐0.49) and mortality (0.45, 0.35‐0.57). Reduced HbA1c variability explained 31.1%‐81.2% of the effect size of DPP4i initiation at HbA1c <7.5% versus ≥7.5% on outcomes.

Conclusions

In Chinese patients with T2D, avoiding therapeutic inertia with intensified glycaemic control at HbA1c <7.5% using drugs with low risk of hypoglycaemia and good tolerability, such as DPP4i, delayed insulin treatment, reduced HbA1c variability and improved clinical events.
Pandemic distress and anti‐immigration sentiments
Authors: Daniele Gianmarco , Martinangeli Andrea F. M. , Passarelli Francesco , Sas Willem , Windsteiger Lisa
Published: May 2024

We investigate the causal nexus between pandemic distress and anti‐immigration sentiments. We exploit the disruption brought about by the Covid‐19 outbreak to randomly provide survey respondents with information on the economic or health consequences of the pandemic. Overall, we find that pessimistic information about the economic outlook reinforces overall adversity to immigration and the wish to exclude immigrants from access to healthcare. This effect is less pronounced in areas with larger immigrant populations. Our theoretical model pins down two possible mechanisms explaining these results: a zero‐sum game to split scarce public resources between residents and immigrants on the one hand, and on the other, fear of contagion.
The knowledge, attitudes, and practices of arteriovenous access assessment among hemodialysis nurses: A multicenter cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Chen Jingying , Lu Jinghua , Fu Xia , Zhou Hongzhen
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hemodialysis nurses' cannulation technique, monitoring, and management methods can affect patients' vascular access longevity. An arteriovenous access assessment comprises a medical history and vascular assessment through physical examination and surveillance. However, further exploration is needed to fully understand hemodialysis nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in this area.

Methods

Between June and July 2023, we recruited hemodialysis nurses from 21 cities in Guangdong Province using a convenience sampling method. Four questionnaires—the General Data Questionnaire, the KAP Scale of Arteriovenous Access Assessment among Hemodialysis Nurses, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and the NASA Task Load Index—were utilized for data collection through the Questionnaire Star platform.

Findings

Of the 530 hemodialysis nurses participating in the study, 458 (86.4%) had a valid response. The participants demonstrated moderate knowledge and practice levels regarding arteriovenous access assessment and exhibited positive attitudes. We identified several factors related to arteriovenous access assessment that predict KAP in hemodialysis nurses. These factors included years of experience as a hemodialysis nurse, whether a nurse's knowledge of physical examination was sufficient to meet clinical needs, whether a nurse had received training in performing physical examination, whether a nurse's department regularly checked the quality of physical examination, and nurses' levels of work engagement and mental workload. All factors explained 32.4% of the variance in participants' KAP regarding arteriovenous access assessment.

Discussion

Improving hemodialysis nurses' assessment of arteriovenous access is crucial to ensure optimal patient care. Dialysis center managers and educators should prioritize understanding hemodialysis nurses' KAP of arteriovenous access assessment and any factors influencing these areas.
Hemodynamic effects of low versus high dialysate bicarbonate concentration in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Jensen Jonas Schandorph Kaalund , Jørgensen Ina Hunnerup , Buus Niels Henrik , Jensen Jens Dam , Peters Christian Daugaard
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hemodialysis treatment using standard dialysate bicarbonate concentrations cause transient metabolic alkalosis possibly associated with hemodynamic instability. The aim of this study was to perform a detailed comparison of high and low dialysate bicarbonate in terms of blood pressure, intradialytic hemodynamic parameters, orthostatic blood pressure, and electrolytes.

Methods

Fifteen hemodialysis patients were examined in a single‐blind, randomized, controlled, crossover study. Participants underwent a 4‐h hemodialysis session with dialysate bicarbonate concentration of 30 or 38 mmol/L with 1 week between interventions. Blood pressure was monitored throughout hemodialysis, while cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, stroke volume, and central blood volume were assessed with ultrasound dilution technique (Transonic). Orthostatic blood pressure was measured pre‐ and post‐hemodialysis.

Findings

With similar ultrafiltration (UF) volume (2.6 L), systolic blood pressure (SBP) tended to decrease more during high dialysate bicarbonate compared to low dialysate bicarbonate; the mean (95% confidence interval) between treatment differences in SBP were: 8 (−4; 20) mmHg (end of hemodialysis) and 7 (0; 15) mmHg (post‐hemodialysis). Stroke volume decreased whereas total peripheral resistance increased significantly more during high dialysate bicarbonate compared to low dialysate bicarbonate with mean between treatment differences: Stroke volume: 12 (1; 23) mL; Total peripheral resistance: −2.9 (−5.3; −0.5) mmHg/(L/min). Cardiac output tended to decrease more with high dialysate bicarbonate compared to low dialysate bicarbonate with mean between treatment difference 0.7 (0.0; 1.4) L/min. High dialysate bicarbonate caused alkalosis, hypocalcemia, and lower plasma potassium, whereas patients remained normocalcemic with normal pH during low dialysate bicarbonate. Orthostatic blood pressure response after dialysis did not differ significantly.

Discussion

The use of high dialysate bicarbonate compared to low dialysate bicarbonate was associated with hypocalcemia, alkalosis, and a more pronounced hypokalemia. During hemodialysis with UF, a better preservation of blood pressure, stroke volume, and cardiac output may be achieved with low dialysate bicarbonate compared to high dialysate bicarbonate.
Icariin alleviates oxygen‐induced retinopathy by targeting microglia hexokinase 2
Authors: Li Xingran , Wang Guoqing , Li Na , Wang Xiaotang , Fan Wei , Zhang Zhi , Li Wanqian , Liu Jiangyi , Huang Jiaxing , Liu Xianyang , Zhou Qian , Hou Shengping
Published: May 2024

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a retinal disease‐causing retinal neovascularization that can lead to blindness. Oxygen‐induced retinopathy (OIR) is a widely used ROP animal model. Icariin (ICA) has anti‐oxidative and anti‐inflammation properties; however, whether ICA has a regulatory effect on OIR remains unclear. In this study, ICA alleviated pathological neovascularization, microglial activation and blood–retina barrier (BRB) damage in vivo. Further results indicated that endothelial cell tube formation, migration and proliferation were restored by ICA treatment in vitro. Proteomic microarrays and molecular mimicry revealed that ICA can directly bind to hexokinase 2 (HK2) and decrease HK2 protein expression in vivo and in vitro. In addition, ICA inhibited the AKT/mTOR/HIF1α pathway activation. The effects of ICA on pathological neovascularization, microglial activation and BRB damage disappeared after HK2 overexpression in vivo. Similarly, the endothelial cell function was revised after HK2 overexpression. HK2 overexpression reversed ICA‐induced AKT/mTOR/HIF1α pathway inhibition in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, ICA prevented pathological angiogenesis in OIR in an HK2‐dependent manner, implicating ICA as a potential therapeutic agent for ROP.
Robust optimization model for relief supplies distribution considering fairness
Authors: Chen Yingzhen
Published: May 2024

The emergency management agency (EMA) needs to distribute limited relief supplies efficiently. However, it is difficult to develop a reliable system for relief supplies distribution owing to the uncertainties in emergencies. This paper investigates a robust multiperiod relief supplies distribution problem that considers the uncertainties of transportation time, the amount of donation amount, and the secondary disasters. First, a satisfaction model is constructed by considering the relief supplies and the transportation time. The negative effect of the delay in transportation time is considered in the satisfaction model. Second, based on the satisfaction model, a comprehensive fairness strategy is constructed that considers both vertical fairness and horizontal fairness. Finally, a relief supplies distribution model is built for the EMA that considers the actions of the non‐governmental organization (NGO) and donors. Both the utility and the fairness are considered in the objective of the proposed model. In numerical experiments, the Wenchuan earthquake is conducted to illustrate the applicability of the model and provide implications for decision‐makers. The results show the benefits of considering both vertical fairness and horizontal fairness. Then the suitable threshold is given by the analysis of the time delay. Finally, managerial insights and recommendations for the EMA and the NGO derived from the numerical experiments are presented. The findings in this paper help improve the reliability of the relief supplies distribution system.
All‐cause and cause‐specific mortality in US adults with periodontal diseases: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Larvin Harriet , Baptiste Paris J. , Gao Chenyi , Muirhead Vanessa , Donos Nikolaos , Pavitt Sue , Kang Jing , Wu Jianhua
Published: May 2024

Aim

This prospective cohort study investigated the association between periodontal diseases (PDs) and all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality.

Materials and Methods

We utilized adult participants recruited from six National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles (1999–2014) and linked mortality data from the National Death Index up to December 2019. Baseline clinical periodontal examinations were performed by trained and calibrated examiners. All‐cause and cause‐specific mortality was modelled through multivariable Cox proportional hazards and Fine–Gray models to account for competing risks. All models were adjusted for demographic and lifestyle variables, clinical measurements and comorbidities.

Results

Overall, 15,030 participants were included, with a median length of follow‐up of 9 years. Risk of all‐cause mortality was 22% greater in people with PD than the control group (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.31). Risks of mortality by cardiovascular diseases (CVD), respiratory disease and diabetes were highest in participants with severe PD (CVD—sub‐distribution HR [SHR]: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.16–1.64; respiratory—SHR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.07–2.45; diabetes—SHR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.12–2.53).

Conclusions

Severe PD is associated with all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality among US adults after multivariable adjustment.
Natural products and diet for the prevention of oral cancer: Research from south and southeast Asia
Authors: Malathi N. , Rajan Sharada T. , Warnakulasuriya Saman
Published: May 2024

Medicinal plants are of prime importance in the discovery of drugs. They are an inherent source of naturally available phytochemicals that can help in the prevention and treatment of several diseases including cancer. This article reviews the experimental and clinical evidence of phytochemicals available in natural dietary products that are used in everyday life across South Asia and South‐East Asia for their perceived effectiveness in the management of Potentially Malignant Disorders and prevention of Oral Cancer. The review also highlights the active phytometabolites, their in vitro anti‐proliferative properties and targeted signalling pathways, biological activities in in vivo models and translative potential for clinical trials in humans.
Water deprivation modifies the metabolic profile of lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) leaves
Authors: Liao Zhengqiao , Liu Lei , Rennenberg Heinz , Du Baoguo
Published: May 2024

Lavender plantation is globally expanded due to the increasing demand of its essential oil and its popularity as an ornamental species. However, lavender plantations, and consequently essential oil industries, are threatened by more frequent and severe drought episodes in a globally changing climate. Still little is known about the changes in the general metabolome, which provides the precursors of essential oil production, by extended drought events. Prolonged drought fundamentally results in yield losses and changing essential oil composition. In the present study, the general metabolome of a main cultivated lavender species (Lavandula angustifolia Mill.) in response to water deprivation (WD) and re‐watering was analyzed to identify the metabolomics responses. We found prolonged WD resulted in significant accumulations of glucose, 1,6‐anhydro‐β‐D‐glucose, sucrose, melezitose and raffinose, but declines of allulose, β‐D‐allose, altrose, fructose and D‐cellobiose accompanied by decreased organic acids abundances. Amino acids and aromatic compounds of p‐coumaric acid, hydrocaffeic acid and caffeic acid significantly accumulated at prolonged WD, whereas aromatics of cis‐ferulic acid, taxifolin and two fatty acids (i.e., palmitic acid and stearic acid) significantly decreased. Prolonged WD also resulted in decreased abundances of polyols, particularly myo‐inositol, galactinol and arabitol. The altered metabolite profiles by prolonged WD were mostly not recovered after re‐watering, except for branched‐chain amino acids, proline, serine and threonine. Our study illustrates the complex changes of leaf primary and secondary metabolic processes of L. angustifolia by drought events and highlights the potential impact of these precursors of essential oil production on the lavender industry.
Effect of continuous positive airway pressure helmet on respiratory function following surgical procedures in brachycephalic dogs: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Araos Joaquin , Hayes Galina M. , Nugen Sarah A. , Lao Derek , Fredericks Carol E. , King Andrea L. , Martin‐Flores Manuel
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effect of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on respiratory function in the early postoperative period of brachycephalic dogs.

Study design

Prospective, randomized clinical trial.

Animals

A total of 32 dogs.

Methods

Dogs were assigned to recover with or without CPAP (control) and assessed at specific time points over 1 h. Treatment was discontinued for dogs with a CPAP tolerance score of 3 or more (from a range of 0–4). The primary outcome was pulse oximetry (SpO2). Secondary outcomes were arterial O2 pressure (PaO2)/FiO2 ratio (PaO2/FiO2), arterial CO2 pressure (PaCO2), and rectal temperature. For dogs that reached a CPAP tolerance score of 3 or more, only the data collected up to the time point before discontinuation were included in the analysis. The treatment effect (β) was analyzed using random effects models and the results were reported with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Dogs were assigned randomly to each protocol. Baseline characteristics in both groups were comparable. Arterial blood gases were obtained in seven control group dogs and nine CPAP group dogs. Treatment did not affect SpO2 (β = −0.1, −2.1 to 2.0) but affected the PaO2/FiO2 ratio (β = 58.1, 2.6 to 113.6), with no effects on PaCO2 (β = −4.3, −10.5 to 1.9) or temperature (β = 0.4, −0.8 to 1.6).

Conclusion

In postoperative brachycephalic dogs, CPAP had no effect on SpO2 but improved the PaO2/FiO2 ratio in brachycephalic dogs postoperatively.

Clinical significance

Continuous positive airway pressure offers a valuable solution to improve gas exchange efficiency, a prevalent concern in postoperative brachycephalic dogs, with the potential to enhance overall outcomes.
On functional successive minima
Authors: Amoroso F. , Masser D. , Zannier U.
Published: May 2024

In the classical Geometry of Numbers, the calculation of successive minima may be quite difficult, even in using the norm coming from a distance function associated to a set. In the literature, there seem to be hardly any analogues when is replaced by the algebraic closure of a function field in one variable and one uses a norm arising from the absolute height. Here, we calculate a one‐parameter family of examples that naturally arose in our recent paper on bounded heights. We also comment on whether the minima are attained.
Septic arthritis of the native hip joint and septic pulmonary embolism in an adult with sickle cell trait after a complicated dental extraction
Authors: Ayogu Chukwudi Isaac , Valluru Balakrishna
Published: May 2024

Septic arthritis (SA) is a serious infection of the joint which can lead to irreversible destruction of the joint.

We report a case of right hip SA with septic pulmonary embolism following a complicated dental extraction in a woman in her early 40s with sickle cell trait (SCT).

The patient presented with severe right thigh pain and left jaw pain.

Initial workup revealed raised C reactive protein and positive blood cultures. Right hip joint SA was confirmed following intraoperative joint aspiration. The patient had right hip debridement with long-term intravenous antibiotics.

The incidence of SA in adults with sickle cell disease is low: 0.3% in a study in France and Brazil and 10.3% incidence of haematogenous osteoarticular infection in children with SCT in West Africa.
Knowledge, attitudes and practice on sudden infant death: study protocol of a scoping review
Authors: Rodrigues Larissa , De Souza Ariane Vitória , del Risco Sánchez Odette , Carmona Elenice Valentim
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected death of an infant less than 1 year old, which occurs without presentation of any signs of mortality risk and it is not explained even after investigation, necropsy and review of the site of death. The nurse is an essential healthcare professional working with children and families who can contribute to preventing avoidable deaths of infants. Because SIDS is preventable, permanent education of the healthcare team, family members and infant caregivers is necessary.

Objective

To explore the scientific literature about knowledge, attitudes and practice on SIDS.

Methods and analysis

A scoping review will be conducted. Quantitative or qualitative primary studies, theses, dissertations and technical and governmental documents in English, Spanish, French or Portuguese will be considered, without a time limit for selection with search, in the databases: Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, Virtual Health Library, Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations of the Brazilian Institute and Cochrane. A search strategy will be elaborated with the keywords in the following themes: knowledge, attitudes, practice, sudden infant death and healthcare. The eligibility criteria will be applied to references of selected articles to identify new studies. The studies selected will be subjected to thematic content analysis, which allows data interpretation through a systematic classification process for coding themes to the analysis of quantitative and qualitative studies and meta-aggregation. NVIVO V.14 software will be used to organise, code and validate the data.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval is not required. The results will be disseminated to the health science community through professional networks, conference presentations and publication in a scientific journal.
Understanding patterns of fatigue in health and disease: protocol for an ecological momentary assessment study using digital technologies
Authors: Adam Rosalind , Lotankar Yojana , Sas Corina , Powell Daniel , Martinez Veronica , Green Stephen , Cooper Jonathan , Bradbury Katherine , Sive Jonathan , Hill Derek L
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Fatigue is prevalent across a wide range of medical conditions and can be debilitating and distressing. It is likely that fatigue is experienced differently according to the underlying aetiology, but this is poorly understood. Digital health technologies present a promising approach to give new insights into fatigue.

The aim of this study is to use digital health technologies, real-time self-reports and qualitative interview data to investigate how fatigue is experienced over time in participants with myeloma, long COVID, heart failure and in controls without problematic fatigue. Objectives are to understand which sensed parameters add value to the characterisation of fatigue and to determine whether study processes are feasible, acceptable and scalable.

Methods and analysis

An ecological momentary assessment study will be carried out over 2 or 4 weeks (participant defined). Individuals with fatigue relating to myeloma (n=10), heart failure (n=10), long COVID (n=10) and controls without problematic fatigue or a study condition (n=10) will be recruited. ECG patches will measure heart rate variability, respiratory rate, body temperature, activity and posture. A wearable bracelet accompanied by environment beacons will measure physical activity, sleep and room location within the home. Self-reports of mental and physical fatigue will be collected via smartphone app four times daily and on-demand. Validated fatigue and affect questionnaires will be completed at baseline and at 2 weeks. End-of-study interviews will investigate experiences of fatigue and study participation. A feedback session will be offered to participants to discuss their data.

Data will be analysed using multilevel modelling and machine learning. Interviews and feedback sessions will be analysed using content or thematic analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the East of England—Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee (22/EE/0261). The results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05622669.
Impact of social determinants of health on progression from potentially life-threatening complications to near miss events and death during pregnancy and post partum in a middle-income setting: an observational study
Authors: Keepanasseril Anish , Pal Koustav , Maurya Dilip Kumar , Kar Sitanshu Sekhar , Bakshi Ravleen , D’Souza Rohan
Published: May 2024

Objective

To assess the potential associations between social determinants of health (SDH) and severe maternal outcomes (SMO), to better understand the social structural framework and the contributory, non-clinical mechanisms associated with SMO.

Study design

Prospective observational study.

Study setting

Tertiary referral centre in south-eastern region of India.

Participants

One thousand and thirty-three women with potentially life-threatening complications (PLTC) were identified using WHO criteria.

Risk factors assessed

Social Determinants of Health (SDH).

Primary outcomes

Severe maternal outcomes, which include maternal near-miss and maternal death.

Statistical analysis

Logistic regression to assess the association between SDH and clinical factors on SMO, expressed as adjusted ORs (aOR) with a 95% CI.

Results

Of the 37 590 live births, 1833 (4.9%) sustained PLTC, and 380 (20.7%) developed SMO. Risk of SMO was higher with increasing maternal age (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.04 (95% CI 1.01 to 1.07)), multiparity (aOR 1.44 (1.10 to 1.90)), medical comorbidities (aOR 1.50 (1.11 to 2.02)), obstetric haemorrhage (aOR 4.63 (3.10 to 6.91)), infection (aOR 2.93 (1.83 to 4.70)), delays in seeking care (aOR 3.30 (2.08 to 5.23)), and admissions following a referral (aOR 2.95 (2.21 to 3.93)). SMO was lower in patients from socially backward community (aOR 0.45 (0.33 to 0.61)), those staying more than 10 km from hospital (aOR 0.56 (0.36 to 0.78)), those attending at least four antenatal visits (aOR=0.53 (0.36 to 0.78)) and those referred from resource-limited facilities (aOR=0.62 (0.46 to 0.84)).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the independent contribution of SDH to SMO among those sustaining PLTC in a middle-income setting, highlighting the need to formulate preventive strategies beyond clinical considerations.
How does communication affect patient safety? Protocol for a systematic review and logic model
Authors: Howick Jeremy , Bennett-Weston Amber , Solomon Josie , Nockels Keith , Bostock Jennifer , Keshtkar Leila
Published: May 2024

Introduction

One in 10 patients are harmed in healthcare, more than three million deaths occur annually worldwide due to patient safety incidents, and the economic burden of patient safety incidents accounts for 15% of hospital expenditure. Poor communication between patients and practitioners is a significant contributor to patient safety incidents. This study aims to evaluate the extent to which patient safety is affected by communication and to provide a logic model that illustrates how communication impacts patient safety.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a systematic review of randomised and non-randomised studies, reported in any language, that quantify the effects of practitioner and patient communication on patient safety. We will search MEDLINE, CINAHL, APA PsychINfo, CENTRAL, Scopus and ProQuest theses and dissertations from 2013 to 7 February 2024. We will also hand-search references of included studies. Screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment will be conducted by two independent reviewers. Risk of bias will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non-Randomised Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) for non-randomised studies, and the Cochrane Risk of Bias V.2 (RoB2) for randomised controlled trials. If appropriate, results will be pooled with summary estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs); otherwise, we will conduct a narrative synthesis. We will organise our findings by healthcare discipline, type of communication and type of patient safety incident. We will produce a logic model to illustrate how communication impacts patient safety.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review does not require formal ethics approval. Findings will be disseminated through international conferences, news and peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024507578.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia Associated with Mature Ovarian Cystic Teratoma Containing Monoclonal Immunoglobulin G: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Nato Yuma , Nagaharu Keiki , Itoh Keika , Shinke Naoki , Maeyama Keiko , Sawaki Akihiko , Miyashita Hiroyuki
Published: May 2024

Background. Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) associated with solid tumors such as mature cystic teratomas is rare and poorly understood. Here, we report a successfully treated case of secondary AIHA in a mature cystic teratoma containing antibodies against red blood cells. Case description. A 22-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with progressive anemia. Laboratory findings revealed hemolysis with a positive direct and indirect antiglobulin test. Imaging studies identified a left ovarian mass, suspected to be a mature cystic teratoma, which was later confirmed by histopathology after laparoscopic oophorocystectomy. The patient was treated with prednisolone, resulting in improved anemia. To examine the relationship between the tumor and AIHA, an indirect antiglobulin test was performed on the tumor contents. Stronger aggregations were observed at any concentration diluted by 10 times from 10 to 10,000 times of the tumor contents compared to the patient’s serum. Additionally, immunofixation electrophoresis of the tumor contents revealed the presence of monoclonal immunoglobulin G-κ. Conclusion. The presence of monoclonal IgG-κ in the tumor suggests intratumoral antibody production as a possible mechanism. Further research is necessary to elucidate the pathogenic relationship between such tumors and AIHA. The report also highlights the importance of considering secondary AIHA in patients with unexplained anemia and solid tumors.
The Development of Simple Scoring System to Predict Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Patients with Stroke
Authors: Pak In-Hui , Han Se-Ryong , Sin Chol-Ho , Kim Hyo-Song , Rim Un-Ryong
Published: May 2024

Urinary tract infection is a frequent problem after stroke. Although prior scoring systems for UTI after stroke have been developed, we developed a simple scoring system for all types of stroke in our own. The study was designed on retrospective data. The population includes 1496 patients with stroke who had been admitted at the Neurology Department of Pyongyang Medical College Hospital between January 2010 and August 2019. The patients were diagnosed with confirmed CT and MRI. Urinary tract infection (UTI) was diagnosed through urine culture: more than 100,100 colony-forming units per millimeter in patients with signs and symptoms. The UTI prediction scoring system was developed by means of the variables available on admission. The variables with significant difference between the non-UTI group and the UTI group were age (non-UTI versus UTI, 56.4 ± 7.2 vs. 59.0 ± 12.8; p<0.001), female (244 (24.2) vs. 176 (36.1), p<0.001), 300 ≦ SI (smoking index) (16 (2.4) vs. 48 (12.0), p<0.001), alcohol > 25 g/d (292 (29.0) vs. 184 (37.7), p<0.001), poststroke hyperglycemia (120 (10.3) vs. 163 (33.4), p<0.001), indwelling of urinary catheter (157 (15.6) vs. 351 (72.0), p<0.001), GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale) on admission (11.2 ± 3.9 vs. 8.5 ± 4.0, p=0.038), and WFNS (World Federation of Neurosurgeons) (in subarachnoid hemorrhage) on admission (2.9 ± 1.7 vs. 3.5 ± 1.5, p<0.001). The UTI prediction score ranged from 0 to 8 and produced an AUC (area under curve) of 0.800. The optimal cutoff point was 2.5 (sensitivity 64.3% and specificity 79.9%). So, the score ≧ 3 was the optimal score for the prediction of UTI after stroke.
Enhanced Multi-UAV Path Planning in Complex Environments With Voronoi-Based Obstacle Modelling and Q-Learning
Authors: Su Wenjia , Gao Min , Gao Xinbao , Xuan Zhaolong
Published: May 2024

To tackle the challenge of obstacle avoidance path planning for multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in intricate environments, this study introduces a Voronoi graph–based model to represent the obstacle-laden environment and employs a Markov decision process (MDP) for single UAV path planning. The traditional Q-learning algorithm is enhanced by adjusting the initial state of the Q-table and fine-tuning the reward and penalty values, enabling the acquisition of efficient obstacle avoidance paths for individual UAVs in complex settings. Leveraging the improved Q-learning algorithm for single UAVs, the Q-table is iteratively refined for a fleet of UAVs, with dynamic modifications based on the waypoints chosen by each UAV. This approach ensures the generation of collision-free paths for multiple UAVs, as validated by simulation results that showcase the algorithm’s effectiveness in learning from past training data. The proposed method offers a robust framework for practical UAV trajectory generation in complex environments.
Mathematical Modeling of Infectious Disease and Prey-Predator Interaction with Optimal Control
Authors: Mekonen Kassahun Getnet , Bezabih Abayneh Fentie , Rao Koya Purnachandra
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the impact of viral illnesses on the predator-prey relationship with an optimal control analysis is studied. An ecoepidemiological model of four compartments, namely, susceptible prey, susceptible predator, infected prey, and infected predator populations, in the interaction of the prey-predator system is formulated. The fundamental tenet of our ecoepidemiology model is that sick predators do not engage in predation. It is confirmed that the system’s solution exists, is positive, and is bounded. The system’s equilibrium points are determined and computed. Lyapunov functions and a linearizing form are used for local and global stability analysis, respectively. The next generation matrix approach is used to calculate the threshold value for diseased predators and prey at the disease-free equilibrium point. Optimal treatment options for vulnerable and infected populations are established by applying optimal control theory to the ecoepidemiology model of a prey-predator system. MATLAB software is utilized to obtain numerical simulations that validate the analytical outcomes. The optimal control problem simulations demonstrate that the number of infected populations in a given prey-predator system can be decreased by implementing control measures.
Bladder Cancer Invading the Prostate and Penis and Multiple Bone Metastases Showing Significant Improvement after a Short-Term Pembrolizumab Therapy following Radiation and Gemcitabine and Cisplatin Therapy Leading to a Pathologically Complete Remission
Authors: Ishida Kyohei , Ogose Akira , Kawaguchi Gen , Hasegawa Go , Ikeda Yohei , Hara Noboru , Nishiyama Tsutomu
Published: May 2024

A 65-year-old man was diagnosed with bladder cancer invading the prostate and penis and multiple bone metastases. He underwent palliative radiation (30 Gy/10 fr) through vertebral bones (Th3 and Th12-L5) and pelvic bones for pain control. The patient received pembrolizumab therapy after three courses of gemcitabine and cisplatin therapy. CT four weeks after starting pembrolizumab therapy showed that both the primary and metastatic lesions had notably reduced in size, and no new lesion was detected. He subsequently fell, resulting in a femoral neck pathological fracture, and underwent hemiarthroplasty. Pathological examination of the pathological fracture site revealed no residual tumor tissue.
TABLE 1 from Comparative Epigenetic Profiling Reveals Distinct Features of Mucosal Melanomas Associated with Immune Cell Infiltration and Their Clinical Implications
Authors: Dai Jie , Jia Jia , Zhang Fanshuang , Liu Kaihua , Xi Yanfeng , Yuan Pei , Mao Lili , Bai Xue , Wei Xiaoting , Wang Bingning , Li Jiangtao , Xu Yang , Liu Ting , Chang Shuang , Shao Yang , Guo Jun , Ying Jianming , Si Lu
Published: May 2024

Demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients with PMME and NEMM included in the study
Figure S1 from Comparative Epigenetic Profiling Reveals Distinct Features of Mucosal Melanomas Associated with Immune Cell Infiltration and Their Clinical Implications
Authors: Dai Jie , Jia Jia , Zhang Fanshuang , Liu Kaihua , Xi Yanfeng , Yuan Pei , Mao Lili , Bai Xue , Wei Xiaoting , Wang Bingning , Li Jiangtao , Xu Yang , Liu Ting , Chang Shuang , Shao Yang , Guo Jun , Ying Jianming , Si Lu
Published: May 2024

Supplementary Figure S1. PMME were generally associated with relatively lower levels of gene expression. (A) Vocanal plot and (B) unsupervised clustering of the top 50 differentially expressed (DE) genes between PMME and normal control samples. (C) Vocanal plot and (D) unsupervised clustering of the top 50 DE genes between PMME and NEMM.
FIGURE 4 from Comparative Epigenetic Profiling Reveals Distinct Features of Mucosal Melanomas Associated with Immune Cell Infiltration and Their Clinical Implications
Authors: Dai Jie , Jia Jia , Zhang Fanshuang , Liu Kaihua , Xi Yanfeng , Yuan Pei , Mao Lili , Bai Xue , Wei Xiaoting , Wang Bingning , Li Jiangtao , Xu Yang , Liu Ting , Chang Shuang , Shao Yang , Guo Jun , Ying Jianming , Si Lu
Published: May 2024

Role of TERT hypermethylation in PMME and its impact on immunologic signatures. A, Heat map depicting the association between hypermethylated genes and the immune cell infiltration in PMME. B, Linear regression analysis demonstrating the correlation between TERT methylation and immune infiltration in PMME. C, Comparison of TERT methylation levels among PMME, NEMM, and controls (*, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001). D, Comparison of TERT expression levels among PMME tumors, NEMM, and controls.