bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One‐year postpartum weight retention and glucose intolerance in women with prediabetes after gestational diabetes
Authors: Mievis Valérie , Minschart Caro , Myngheer Nele , Maes Toon , de Block Christophe , Bochanen Niels , van Pottelbergh Inge , Abrams Pascale , Vinck Wouter , Leuridan Liesbeth , Driessens Sabien , Billen Jaak , Matthys Christophe , Laenen Annouschka , Bogaerts Annick , Mathieu Chantal , Benhalima Katrien
Published: July 2024

Aims

To determine risk factors for 1‐year postpartum weight retention (PPWR) and glucose intolerance (prediabetes + diabetes) in women with a previous history of gestational diabetes (GDM) and prediabetes in early postpartum.

Methods

In this exploratory analysis of the MELINDA randomized controlled trial, we report data of 167 women with prediabetes at the 6–16 weeks (early) postpartum oral glucose tolerance test after a recent history of GDM.

Results

Of all participants, 45% (75) had PPWR >0 kg at 1‐year postpartum. Compared to women without PPWR, women with PPWR had higher gestational weight gain [10.5 ± 6.4 vs. 6.5 ± 4.5 kg, p < 0.001], higher BMI (p < 0.01) and a worse metabolic profile (higher waist circumference, worse lipid profile and more insulin resistance) (all p < 0.05) both in early and late postpartum. Of all women with PPWR, 40.0% developed metabolic syndrome, compared to 18.9% of women without late PPWR (p = 0.003). The only independent predictor for late PPWR was weight retention in early postpartum (p < 0.001). Of all participants, 55.1% (92) had glucose intolerance (84 prediabetes, 8 diabetes) 1‐year postpartum. Independent predictors for late postpartum glucose intolerance were lower gestational age at start insulin therapy in pregnancy and delivery by caesarean section (resp. p = 0.044 and 0.014).

Conclusions

In women with a previous history of GDM and prediabetes in early postpartum, PPWR in early postpartum was a strong independent predictor for late PPWR, while earlier start of insulin therapy during pregnancy and delivery by caesarean section were independent predictors of glucose intolerance in late postpartum.
Defoliator outbreaks track with warming across the Pacific coastal temperate rainforest of North America
Authors: Howe Michael , Graham Elizabeth E. , Nelson Kellen N.
Published: July 2024

The biogeography of irruptive insect herbivores is determined by host availability and climate conditions. As such, outbreak distributions are sensitive to climatic change, especially across large latitudinal gradients. Here, we investigate the outbreak distributions of two understudied defoliators, hemlock sawfly Neodiprion tsugae (Hymenoptera) and western blackheaded budworm Acleris gloverana (Lepidoptera), that have both recently impacted the greatest land area recorded across the Pacific coastal temperate rainforest since the establishment of aerial survey programs. We compiled polygon‐based estimates of insect damage collected by aerial observers, forest inventory, and downscaled climatic data to develop gridded estimates of bioclimatic conditions across the extent of the Pacific coastal temperate rainforest, including the continental United States, British Columbia and Alaska. We leveraged these data to develop ensemble machine learning models with the goal of predicting the outbreak distribution of each insect. In this manuscript we: 1) describe the historical patterns of defoliator outbreaks, 2) identify and describe climatic conditions associated with outbreaks in both species and 3) assess whether historic outbreaks have tracked geographic shifts in climate conditions across the region. We demonstrate that outbreaks of hemlock sawfly and western blackheaded budworm have been observed across the Pacific coastal temperature rainforests of North America in each decade since the establishment of the Canadian and United States aerial survey programs. The distribution of outbreaks by both insects were best explained by host availability, a limited range of spring, summer, and winter temperatures, and minimum precipitation. Finally, we demonstrate that outbreaks have tracked the poleward shift in suitable climate over the last century. This study establishes a baseline understanding of the climatic constraints and biogeographic patterns of historic sawfly and budworm outbreaks across the Pacific coastal temperate rainforest and emphasizes the overarching importance of climate in driving the irruptive dynamics of these defoliator species.

Keywords: climate envelope, defoliators, hemlock sawfly, Pacific coastal temperate rainforest, population dynamics, western blackheaded budworm
Ecologically sustainable retention forestry supports spider biodiversity in the Lower Morava UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
Authors: Hamřík Tomáš , Gallé Róbert , Košulič Ondřej
Published: July 2024

Floodplain forests are among the most endangered ecosystems worldwide, even though they are hotspots for numerous taxa. The abandonment of traditional management and large‐scale timber extraction, such as clear‐cutting, has led to a decline in floodplain forest biodiversity. Retention forestry has the potential to facilitate the implementation of an ecologically sustainable forest management approach. Despite the increasing popularity of this method, its potential for spider diversity conservation, especially its comparison with the widespread practice of clear‐cutting, is still poorly studied.

We studied the short‐term effect of forestry treatments (dispersed retention with 60% retained trees and clear‐cutting) on the diversity of ground‐dwelling spiders in the floodplain forests along the Lower Morava (March) and Dyje (Thaya) rivers in the Czech Republic. Spiders were sampled using pitfall traps during 2021 (pre‐harvest year) and 2022 (post‐harvest year).

A total of 10,005 specimens from 167 species were recorded. Both forestry treatments simplified habitat structure compared with pre‐harvest conditions, resulting in lower beta‐diversity within sites. However, dispersed retention had higher alpha‐ and beta‐diversity than clear‐cuts, indicating that retention provided a more complex‐structured habitat. Dispersed retention and clear‐cuts hosted distinct spider assemblages with characteristic indicator species. Species typical of open and significantly disturbed habitats preferred clear‐cuts, while species typical of forests and (semi‐) open habitats, including threatened species, showed a preference for dispersed retention.

Our results demonstrated, for the first time, that dispersed retention forestry could serve as an effective management tool for conserving the ground‐dwelling assemblages of spiders in floodplain forests.
Spectrum of cutaneous lesions in a cohort of patients with neurofibromatosis type 2
Authors: Fialho Maria C. , Garrido Pedro M. , Santos‐Coelho Miguel , Ferreirinha Ana , Martins Bárbara D. , Passos João , Moura Cecília
Published: July 2024

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a rare autosomal dominant syndrome with a predisposition to the development of central nervous system tumors, ophthalmic manifestations, and dermatological lesions. The latter are present in 70–95% of patients and can precede the evolution of other tumors. However, they are not included in the diagnostic criteria and are frequently undervalued during follow‐up.

Methods

An observational cross‐sectional study characterizing cutaneous lesions in a cohort of NF2 patients was carried out. Dermatological examinations were performed, and lesions were classified into neural cutaneous tumors (superficial, SNCT, and deep, DNCT), hyperpigmented patches (HyperP), and hypopigmented patches (HypoP). The Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and EQ‐5D questionnaires were applied to evaluate the impact on quality of life.

Results

Nineteen patients with a mean age of 36 years were included. Sixteen (84%) patients had cutaneous lesions, mostly developed 10 or more years before the diagnosis. SNCT, DNCT, and HyperP showed similar frequencies (58%). HypoP were observed in only one patient. HyperP developed, on average, earlier than NCT (9.6 vs. 16.5 SNCT, 17.0 DNCT; years). The excised lesions had different histological patterns, including neurofibromas, schwannomas, and a hybrid tumor. Most patients reported a low impact of cutaneous manifestations on the quality of life (DLQI 0 or 1).

Conclusions

Cutaneous lesions are frequent in NF2 and may precede the diagnosis by several years. Their identification is important to establish the diagnosis earlier and potentially reduce morbidity and mortality.
Exploring the potential of mushrooms in ready‐to‐eat snack formulations
Authors: Vattapparambil Aslam , Pulickakudy Ajithkumar Aswin , Dubey Praveen Kumar , Kumar Sourabh
Published: July 2024

Contemporary dining habits have spurred a shift in ready‐to‐eat (RTE) snack production, with mushrooms offering a nutritional boost due to their protein, carbohydrate, fibre and vitamin content. Proximate composition data aid in creating snacks with balanced nutrition. Mushrooms also contribute antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds, adding a health dimension. Extrusion cooking, known for adaptability and energy efficiency, improves texture, nutrition and shelf life. Though concerns exist about oil intake, frying remains popular for taste and consistency enhancement, requiring careful management. Baking extends shelf life and preserves flavour while enhancing nutrient availability. Various studies highlight the potential of these techniques to meet consumer preferences for convenient, appealing and health‐conscious snacks by incorporating ingredients like legume protein isolates, nuts and seeds, etc. The RTE snack industry evolves to provide healthier options driven by technological innovations and sustainability practices, with personalised and functional snacks on the horizon. The study aims to explore and highlight the nutritional benefits of incorporating mushrooms into RTE snacks and discusses the unique advantages of extrusion, frying and baking in snack production.
Plasma metabolomic profile of adiposity and body composition in childhood: The Genetics of Glucose regulation in Gestation and Growth cohort
Authors: Semnani‐Azad Zhila , Rahman Mohammad L. , Arguin Melina , Doyon Myriam , Perron Patrice , Bouchard Luigi , Hivert Marie‐France
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study identified metabolite modules associated with adiposity and body fat distribution in childhood using gold‐standard measurements.

Methods

We used cross‐sectional data from 329 children at mid‐childhood (age 5.3 ± 0.3 years; BMI 15.7 ± 1.5 kg/m2) from the Genetics of Glucose regulation in Gestation and Growth (Gen3G), a prospective pre‐birth cohort. We quantified 1038 plasma metabolites and measured body composition using the gold‐standard dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), in addition to skinfold, waist circumference, and BMI. We applied weighted‐correlation network analysis to identify a network of highly correlated metabolite modules. Spearman's partial correlations were applied to determine the associations of adiposity with metabolite modules and individual metabolites with false discovery rate (FDR) correction.

Results

We identified a ‘green’ module of 120 metabolites, primarily comprised of lipids (mostly sphingomyelins and phosphatidylcholine), that showed positive correlations (all FDR p < 0.05) with DXA estimates of total and truncal fat (ρadjusted = 0.11–0.19), skinfold measures (ρadjusted = 0.09–0.26), and BMI and waist circumference (ρadjusted = 0.15 and 0.18, respectively). These correlations were similar when stratified by sex. Within this module, sphingomyelin (d18:2/14:0, d18:1/14:1)*, a sphingomyelin sub‐specie that is an important component of cell membranes, showed the strongest associations.

Conclusions

A module of metabolites was associated with adiposity measures in childhood.
Measuring avian bill size: comparing and evaluating 3D surface scanning with traditional size estimates in Australian birds
Authors: Ryding Sara , Tattersall Glenn J. , Klaassen Marcel , Wilkinson David J. , Symonds Matthew R. E.
Published: July 2024

Unidimensional measurements for estimating bill size, like length and width, are commonly used in ecology and evolution, but can be criticised due to issues with repeatability and accuracy. Furthermore, formula‐based estimates of bill surface area tend to assume uniform bill shapes across species, which is rarely the case. 3D surface scanning can potentially help overcome some such issues by collecting detailed external morphology and direct measurements of surface area, rather than composite estimates of size. Here, we evaluate the use of 3D surface scanners on avian museum specimens to test the repeatability of 3D‐based measurements and compare these to traditional formula‐based methods of estimating bill size from unidimensional measurements. Using 28 Australian bird species, we investigate inter‐observer repeatability of surface area measurements from 3D surface scans. We then compare 3D‐based size estimates to formula‐based size estimates to infer the accuracy and precision of formula‐based measurements of bill surface area. We find that morphometric measurements from 3D surface scans are highly repeatable between observers, without the need for extensive training, demonstrating an advantage over unidimensional measuring methods, like callipers. When comparing 3D‐based measurements to formula‐based estimates of bill surface area, most formulae for estimating size consistently underestimate surface area, and with considerable variation between species. Where 3D scanning is not possible, we find that a commonly used cone formula for estimating bill size is most precise across diverse bill shapes, therefore supporting its use in interspecific contexts. However, we find that incorporating an additional unidimensional measure of bill curvature into formulae improves the accuracy of the calculated area. Our results reveal the high potential for 3D surface scanners in avian morphometric research, especially for studies necessitating large sample sizes collected by multiple observers, and gives suggestions for formula‐based approaches to estimate bill size.
Supportive periodontal care with or without subgingival instrumentation: Microbiological results of a 2‐year randomized clinical trial
Authors: Angst P. D. M. , Van der Velden U. , Susin C. , Gomes S. C.
Published: July 2024

Aim

To compare the subgingival microbiota of patients receiving supportive periodontal care (SPC) with and without subgingival instrumentation, over 2 years.

Materials and Methods

This study was a randomized clinical trial that included 62 participants (50.97 ± 9.26 years old; 40 females) who completed non‐surgical periodontal therapy. Participants were randomly assigned to receive oral prophylaxis with oral hygiene instructions alone (test) or in combination with subgingival instrumentation (control) during SPC. Pooled subgingival biofilm samples were obtained from four sites per patient at SPC baseline and at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used for absolute quantification of Eubacteria and the target bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola. Data were analysed using generalized estimating equations, taking into consideration the clustering of observations within individuals.

Results

No significant differences were found between the experimental groups regarding the mean counts of Eubacteria and target bacteria, as well as the periodontal parameters at the sampled sites. Although significant variability in bacterial counts was present during SPC, all counts after 2 years were not statistically different from those at baseline. Bacterial counts were associated with the presence of plaque, bleeding on probing, mean probing depth ≥3 mm, and follow‐up period.

Conclusions

SPC with or without subgingival instrumentation can result in comparable subgingival microbiological outcomes. Clinical trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01598155 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01598155?intr=supragingival%20control&rank=4#study-record-dates).
Social media discourse on ageism, sexism, and racism: Analysis of 150 million tweets over 15 years
Authors: Ng Reuben , Indran Nicole , Liu Luyao
Published: July 2024

Background

Ageism is a major but oft‐overlooked social determinant of health. In fact, it is widely accepted among scholars that ageism is one of the least acknowledged forms of inequality, although few empirical attempts have been made to substantiate this claim. This is the first study that quantifies the amount of discourse dedicated to ageism, sexism, and racism on Twitter. Specifically, we rely on the usage of hashtags as a proxy for the frequency of discussions surrounding each form of inequality over a 15‐year period from 2007 to 2022. We also identify key events that triggered spikes in Twitter activity for each form of inequality.

Methods

Hashtags related to racism and sexism were extracted from past scholarship. We also employed a snowball sampling method whereby we queried the hashtags using Twitter's search function to identify other hashtags. As limited research has been conducted on ageism‐related hashtags, we queried hashtags utilized by advocacy groups and adopted a snowball sampling method to compile other relevant hashtags. Tweets collected (N = 154,353,047) spanned 15 years, from August 23, 2007 to December 31, 2022.

Results

From 2007 to 2022, racism‐related hashtags were used the most, followed by sexism‐related hashtags and ageism‐related hashtags. Racism‐related hashtags (N = 99,250,348) were mentioned about 60 times more than ageism‐related hashtags (N = 1,648,926). Sexism‐related hashtags (N = 38,933,113) were mentioned 24 times more than ageism‐related hashtags. The increasing linear trend of tweets associated with ageism (p < 0.001), sexism (p < 0.05), and racism (p < 0.05) reached significance. Incidents of racism and sexism often generated widespread public outrage. Conversely, instances of ageism rarely caused spikes in social media activity. Rather, these spikes were mainly observed during events such as the release of a report on ageism, a conference related to aging, or observances such as International Day of Older Persons.

Conclusion

There is a need to hasten moves to raise awareness of ageism. To ensure that discussions on ageism are not confined to academic and policy circles, advocacy campaigns could be held to educate the public on the issue and its negative concomitants.
Mental health of midwives during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A scoping review
Authors: Uchimura Mayumi , Miyauchi Ai , Takahashi Myori , Ota Erika , Horiuchi Shigeko
Published: July 2024

Aim

A summary of studies focusing on the mental health of midwives during the COVID‐19 pandemic has not yet been conducted. This review aims to comprehensively understand the current state of midwives' mental health in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic and to provide valuable insights to guide future research.

Methods

This study was based on a framework for conducting scoping reviews. The protocol was registered before conducting this review and procedures were carried out according to that protocol. Article searches were conducted in four databases from December 2019 to December 2023. From 921 articles selected according to pre‐registered protocol criteria, the analysis finally included 14 studies.

Results

A total of 13 studies were cross‐sectional and one was longitudinal, with pre‐pandemic data. More than 80% of the studies began data collection within approximately 1 year after the pandemic was declared by the World Health Organization (by February 2021). Half of the studies were conducted in Asia. Burnout and turnover intentions were investigated in several studies but used different measures. Only two studies were aimed at positive aspects such as job satisfaction and well‐being.

Conclusions

Most research on midwives' mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic has focused on negative aspects such as burnout and turnover intentions. However, most results were cross‐sectional, with studies in the early stages of the pandemic, so continued follow‐up is needed.
Statistical significance, clinical importance and effect sizes: Enhancing understanding of a study's results
Authors: Glaros Alan G.
Published: July 2024

Background

The proper interpretation of a study’s results requires both excellent understanding of good methodological practices and deep knowledge of prior results, aided by the availability of effect sizes.

Methods

This review takes the form of an expository essay exploring the complex and nuanced relationships among statistical significance, clinical importance, and effect sizes.

Results

Careful attention to study design and methodology will increase the likelihood of obtaining statistical significance and may enhance the ability of investigators/readers to accurately interpret results. Measures of effect size show how well the variables used in a study account for/explain the variability in the data. Studies reporting strong effects may have greater practical value/utility than studies reporting weak effects. Effect sizes need to be interpreted in context. Verbal summary characterizations of effect sizes (e.g., “weak”, “strong”) are fundamentally flawed and can lead to inappropriate characterization of results. Common language effect size (CLES) indicators are a relatively new approach to effect sizes that may offer a more accessible interpretation of results that can benefit providers, patients, and the public at large.

Conclusions

It is important to convey research findings in ways that are clear to both the research community and to the public. At a minimum, this requires inclusion of standard effect size data in research reports. Proper selection of measures and careful design of studies are foundational to the interpretation of a study’s results. The ability to draw useful conclusions from a study is increased when investigators enhance the methodological quality of their work.
Low serum adiponectin levels are associated with an increased risk of diabetes in obese dogs
Authors: Lu J. , Zhu D.‐X. , Wu Z. , Liu L. , Hao F.‐X. , Jiang Z.‐H. , Xu W.‐X.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Adiponectin plays an important role in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. However, the evidence regarding the association between adiponectin and diabetes mellitus in obese dogs is sparse. The aim of this study is to investigate the associations of adiponectin with the risk of diabetes mellitus in obese dogs on the basis of a prospective cohort study.

Materials and Methods

Serum adiponectin levels in obese dogs recruited from three small animal hospitals between 2015 and 2018 were measured by ELISA. Electronic health records were used to record the incidence of diabetes mellitus during follow‐up for 3 years.

Results

A total of 862 dogs were included. Amongst the 862 dogs, 51 developed diabetes. Adiponectin levels were associated with diabetes mellitus after adjusting for sex, age, breed, exercise, body condition score, fasting plasma glucose, serum triglyceride and total cholesterol. When adjusting for sex, age, breed, exercise, body condition score, fasting plasma glucose, serum triglyceride and total cholesterol, the adjusted hazard ratios were 7.83 (95% confidence interval: 2.67 to 30.13) in the lowest adiponectin group and 1.96 (95% CI: 1.10 to 8.55) in the medium adiponectin group relative to that in the highest adiponectin group. The area under a curve of adiponectin's Receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.76 to 0.86).

Clinical Significance

Low adiponectin is associated with diabetes mellitus and has a high risk of incident diabetes mellitus, implying the potential of adiponectin as a predictive biomarker of diabetes mellitus in obese dogs.
Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation along with cognitive training on cognitive functions and activities of daily living in patients with Parkinson's disease: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Saeidi Elahe , Rostami Hamid Reza , Vahedi Mohsen , Haghgoo Hojjat Allah
Published: July 2024

Background

Cognitive impairment is one of the most common symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD). In recent years, the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have been investigated on various disabilities related to PD, including sensory and motor deficits and fatigue.

Aim

To investigate effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) along with cognitive training on attention, working memory, reaction time (RTI), response inhibition, and activities of daily living performance.

Methods

This pilot randomized, single‐blinded, and sham‐controlled trial was performed on 32 people with PD who were blocked randomized equally into intervention and control groups. Intervention group received ten 20‐min sessions of tDCS during ten 45‐min sessions of cognitive training, while control group received ten 20‐min sessions of sham‐tDCS during ten 45‐min sessions of cognitive training. Anodal electrode of tDCS (2 mA) was placed over left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), while cathode was over right supraorbital region. A blinded assessor performed pretest, posttest, and follow‐up assessments using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale and four subtests of the CANTAB computer test including Match to Sample Visual Search, spatial span task, stop signal task, and RTI.

Results

The results showed significant differences within groups over time in the mean scores of attention (F = 24.73, p = 0.00), working memory (F = 19.06, p = 0.000), RTI (F = 8.63, p = 0.005), response inhibition (F = 15.75, p = 0.000), and activity of daily living performance (F = 6.73, p = 0.013).

Conclusion

tDCS (anodal electrode over the left DLPFC and cathodal electrode over the right supraorbital region) along with cognitive training could facilitate improvement of cognitive functions and activities of daily living performance compared to routine cognitive exercises in people with PD.
Medical semiology of patients with monogenic obesity: A systematic review
Authors: Renard Emeline , Thevenard‐Berger Ariane , Meyre David
Published: July 2024

Patients with monogenic obesity display numerous medical features on top of hyperphagic obesity, but no study to date has provided an exhaustive description of their semiology. Two reviewers independently conducted a systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science Core Collection databases from inception to January 2022 to identify studies that described symptoms of patients carrying pathogenic mutations in at least one of eight monogenic obesity genes (ADCY3, LEP, LEPR, MC3R, MC4R, MRAP2, PCSK1, and POMC). Of 5207 identified references, 269 were deemed eligible after title and abstract screening, full‐text reading, and risk of bias and quality assessment. Data extraction included mutation spectrum and mode of inheritance, clinical presentation (e.g., anthropometry, energy intake and eating behaviors, digestive function, puberty and fertility, cognitive features, infectious diseases, morphological characteristics, chronic respiratory disease, and cardiovascular disease), biological characteristics (metabolic profile, endocrinology, hematology), radiological features, and treatments. The review provides an exhaustive description of mandatory, non‐mandatory, and unique symptoms in heterozygous and homozygous carriers of mutation in eight monogenic obesity genes. This information is critical to help clinicians to orient genetic testing in subsets of patients with suspected monogenic obesity and provide actionable treatments (e.g., recombinant leptin and MC4R agonist).
Vortioxetine for depression in adults: A systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yang Xin , Fang Shuping , Lyu Wenqi , Hu Yongbo , Xu Huifang , Jiang Xiao , Zhao Yurou , Zhang Yuwei , Li Jin , Kuang Weihong
Published: July 2024

Aim

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition and vortioxetine offers promising antidepressant effects due to its unique pharmacological profile. However, the dose–response relationships of vortioxetine for MDD is not well established. We aimed to conduct dose–response meta‐analyses to fill this gap.

Methods

We systematically searched multiple electronic databases for randomized controlled trials of vortioxetine for MDD, with the last search conducted on 08 February, 2024. The dose–response relationship was evaluated using a one‐stage random‐effects dose–response meta‐analysis with restricted cubic spline model. The primary outcome was efficacy (mean change in depression scale score), with secondary outcomes including response, dropout for any reasons (acceptability), dropout for adverse events (tolerability), and any adverse events (safety).

Results

The dose–response meta‐analysis comprised 16 studies, with 4,294 participants allocated to the vortioxetine group and 2,299 participants allocated to the placebo group. The estimated 50% effective dose was 4.37 mg/day, and the near‐maximal effective dose (95% effective dose) was 17.93 mg/day. Visual inspection of the dose‐efficacy curve suggests that a plateau possibly had not been reached yet at 20 mg/day. Acceptability, tolerability and safety decreased as the dose increased. Subgroup analysis indicated that no significant differences were observed in acceptability, tolerability and safety among the dosage groups.

Conclusions

Vortioxetine may potentially provide additional therapeutic benefits when exceeding the current licensed dosage without significantly impacting safety. Conducting clinical trials exceeding the current approved dosage appears necessary to fully comprehend its efficacy and risk.
The development of yellow lupin anthers depends on the relationship between jasmonic acid and indole‐3‐acetic acid
Authors: Marciniak Katarzyna , Przedniczek Krzysztof , Kęsy Jacek , Święcicki Wojciech , Kopcewicz Jan
Published: July 2024

The main purpose of this study was to demonstrate that the course of anther development, including post‐meiotic maturation, dehiscence and senescence, is ensured by the interdependencies between jasmonic acid (JA) and indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) in yellow lupin (Lupinus luteus L.). The concentration of JA peaked during anther dehiscence when IAA level was low, whereas the inverse relationship was specific to anther senescence. Cellular and tissue localization of JA and IAA, in conjunction with broad expression profile for genes involved in biosynthesis, signalling, response, and homeostasis under different conditions, allowed to complete and define the role of studied phytohormones during late anther development, as well as predict events triggered by them. The development/degeneration of septum and anther wall cells, dehydration of epidermis, and rupture of stomium may involve JA signalling, while the formation of secondary thickening in endothecial cell walls is rather JA independent. The IAA is involved in programmed cell death (PCD)‐associated processes during anther senescence but does not exclude its participation in the anther dehiscence processes, mainly related to cell disintegration and degeneration. A detailed understanding of these multistage processes, especially at the level of phytohormonal interplay, can contribute to the effective control of male fertility, potentially revolutionizing the breeding of L. luteus.
A comprehensive Study of Juglone's Effect on Polyphenol Oxidase in Cucumber: In Vitro Experiments and Computational Docking and Dynamics Insights
Authors: Kocaçalışkan İsmail , Korkut Şenay Vural , Aktaş Emre , Yalçın Merve , Özgentürk Nehir Özdemir
Published: July 2024

This study explores the impact of juglone on cucumber (Cucumis sativus cv. Beith Alpha), scrutinizing its effects on seed germination, growth, and the polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzyme's activity and gene expression. Employing concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 0.5 mM, we found juglone's effects to be concentration‐dependent. At lower concentrations (0.01 and 0.1 mM), juglone promoted root and shoot growth along with germination, whereas higher concentrations (0.25 and 0.5 mM) exerted inhibitory effects, delineating a threshold for its allelopathic influence. Notably, PPO activity surged, especially at 0.5 mM in roots, hinting at oxidative stress involvement. Real‐time PCR unveiled that juglone modulates PPO gene expression in cotyledons, peaking at 0.1 mM and diminishing at elevated levels. Correlation analyses elucidated a positive link between juglone‐induced root growth and cotyledon PPO gene expression but a negative correlation with heightened root enzyme activity. Additionally, germination percentage inversely correlated with root PPO activity, while PPO activities positively associated with dopa and catechol substrates in both roots and cotyledons. Molecular docking studies revealed juglone's selective interactions with PPO's B chain, suggesting regulatory impacts. Protein interaction assessments highlighted juglone's influence on amino acid metabolism, and molecular dynamics indicated juglone's stronger, more stable binding to PPO, inferring potential alterations in enzyme function and stability. Conclusively, our findings elucidate juglone's dose‐dependent physiological and biochemical shifts in cucumber plants, offering insights into its role in plant growth, stress response, and metabolic modulation.
Open social innovation in response to grand challenges: promotor influence as change agent
Authors: Barrett Gillian , Dooley Lawrence
Published: July 2024

Following on from the R&D Management COVID‐19 two‐part special issue editorial, this paper strives to deepen our knowledge of Open Social Innovation (OSI) in such grand challenge contexts through exploring the promotor role(s) and interventions in managing temporary organisations. Through an exploration of three case studies that emerged from a bottom‐up perspective, in response to the COVID‐19 grand challenge, this study highlights the central role played by promotors in leveraging OSI projects. The core elements of the George et al. (2016) grand challenge framework are explored within the cases, through a promotor theory lens, to understand how the promotor roles (power, process, technology and relationship) influence the emergence of the temporary OSI organisation to enable a societal contribution. The research recognises the potential of OSI as a response to future grand challenges, highlighting the importance of management routines, such as communicating and articulating the need, adoption of project management practices, leveraging network ties through promotors' credibility and co‐ordinating partners (& volunteers) for nurturing objective achievement. The research also highlights impediments that can curtail progress, which potentially impacts the longevity and outcomes of OSI. This study demonstrates the important role of promotors in initiating OSI communities to respond to grand challenges and given the complexity and enormity of the task, promotors must establish routines to engage and co‐ordinate a collective ecosystem, since they cannot execute alone. Thus, OSI communities require assistance from government and/or commercial entities to exploit and effectively co‐ordinate such OSI endeavours to ensure a meaningful contribution.
Democratic Aggregation: Issues and Implications for Consumer Price Indexes
Authors: Martin Robert S.
Published: July 2024

This paper constructs and compares consumer price indexes (CPI) using weighting methods that differentially incorporate inflation disparities across households. Plutocratic CPIs, commonly used by statistical agencies, weight households based on their total expenditure, while democratic CPIs equally weight households to better represent average consumer experiences. I estimate democratic versions of the Bureau of Labor Statistics' CPI and Chained CPI (C‐CPI) for all urban consumers using the Lowe and Törnqvist formulas, respectively. From December 2002 to June 2021, the democratic CPI‐U exceeds its plutocratic counterpart by approximately 0.08 percentage points per year, on average, while the democratic C‐CPI‐U surpasses the plutocratic by 0.19 percentage points per year. The results indicate a negative correlation between inflation and household expenditure level over the study period. I also find weight frequency to be more important than index formula for explaining why larger differences occur for the C‐CPI‐U.
Stability and optimal decay for the 3D anisotropic magnetohydrodynamic equations
Authors: Yang Wan–Rong , Fang Cao
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the stability problem and large time behavior of solutions to the three‐dimensional magnetohydrodynamic equations with horizontal velocity dissipation and magnetic diffusion only in the direction. By applying the structure of the system, time‐weighted methods, and the method of bootstrapping argument, we prove that any perturbation near the background magnetic field (1, 0, 0) is globally stable in the Sobolev space . Furthermore, explicit decay rates in are obtained. Motivated by the stability of the three‐dimensional Navier–Stokes equations with horizontal dissipation, this paper aims to understand the stability of perturbations near a magnetic background field and reveal the mechanism of how the magnetic field generates enhanced dissipation and helps stabilize the fluid.
Perception and acceptability of the public towards the use of harvested rainwater in water scarce regions
Authors: Vele Livhuwani , Ubomba‐Jaswa Eunice , Edokpayi Joshua Nosa
Published: July 2024

This study discusses the critical importance of sustainable access to clean water, particularly in regions facing severe water shortages. The study investigates the public perception of harvested rainwater as a solution to water scarcity in South Africa's semi arid regions. Conducted with 110 respondents, it explores demographics, rainwater harvesting practices, storage methods, and factors affecting satisfaction. Most households (39.6%) had four to six members, with a balanced gender distribution. Despite widespread unemployment (53.2%), 33.6% were graduates. Rainwater was harvested primarily during rainfall (64.9%), with 94.5% of the respondents collected from their own roofs. Storage methods included JoJo tanks (41.8%) and small buckets (54.5%). Concerningly, 95.5% did not test water quality, yet 64.5% found it acceptable. Regression analysis showed water quality significantly influenced satisfaction (b = 0.623, p < 0.005). The high prevalence of rainwater harvesting underscores its potential to address water shortages sustainably.
Harmonic Response of a Highly Flexible Thin Long Cantilever Beam: A Semi-Analytical Approach in Time-Domain With ANCF Modeling and Experimental Validation
Authors: Renjith A. R. , Hati Reek Jyoti , Praveen Krishna I. R.
Published: July 2024

The main objective of this work is to use the time variational method (TVM), a semi-analytical approach to evaluate steady-state responses in the time-domain for absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) modeled systems. The gradient-deficient ANCF beam element's performance is demonstrated for a highly flexible cantilever beam under gravity and impulse loading, with comparisons to experiments. The damping behavior is compared for the Rayleigh proportional and the Navier–Stokes (NS) damping model for a gradient-deficient ANCF beam element. Classical finite element method (FEM) beam formulation's shortcomings in predicting large deflections of thin, flexible cantilever beams are highlighted. Unlike the harmonic balance method (HBM), TVM reduces the computational time for harmonic response evaluation compared to numerical integration techniques and handles nonlinear forces in the time-domain. The harmonic response is evaluated by exciting the cantilever beam in the linear region for both experiments and TVM computations.
Multi-Fidelity Design Framework Integrating Compositional Kernels to Facilitate Early-Stage Design Exploration of Complex Systems
Authors: Charisi Nikoleta Dimitra , Hopman Hans , Kana Austin A.
Published: July 2024

Early-stage design of complex systems is considered by many to be one of the most critical design phases because that is where many of the major decisions are made. The design process typically starts with low-fidelity tools, such as simplified models and reference data, but these prove insufficient for novel designs, necessitating the introduction of high-fidelity tools. This challenge can be tackled through the incorporation of multifidelity models. The application of multifidelity (MF) models in the context of design optimization problems represents a developing area of research. This study proposes incorporating compositional kernels into the autoregressive scheme (AR1) of multifidelity Gaussian processes, aiming to enhance the predictive accuracy and reduce uncertainty in design space estimation. The effectiveness of this method is assessed by applying it to five benchmark problems and a simplified design scenario of a cantilever beam. The results demonstrate significant improvement in the prediction accuracy and a reduction in the prediction uncertainty. Additionally, the article offers a critical reflection on scaling up the method and its applicability in early-stage design of complex engineering systems, providing insights into its practical implementation and potential benefits.
Evaluation of sonobiopsy feasibility and safety in a mouse model of diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
Authors: Zhang Dingyue , Gong Yan , Yang Leqi , Xu Kevin , Yue Yimei , Yuan Jinyun , Chen Hong
Published: July 2024

Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is a leading cause of pediatric brain cancer mortality, emphasizing the need for precise molecular diagnosis to advance therapeutic development. The tumor's location in the brainstem poses challenges for invasive biopsy, prompting the exploration of liquid biopsies. However, both blood-based and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-based liquid biopsies exhibit limited sensitivity in diagnosing DIPG. Sonobiopsy, an innovative technique utilizing focused ultrasound and microbubbles, aims to enhance the sensitivity of liquid biopsies. This study assessed the feasibility and safety of sonobiopsy in a DIPG mouse model. The model was established by intracranial injection of enhanced green-fluorescent-protein (eGFP) transduced DIPG tumor cells. Mice were divided into sonobiopsy and conventional liquid biopsy groups. Sonobiopsy, employing MRI-guided focused ultrasound and microbubbles, demonstrated increases in plasma and CSF eGFP DNA, RNA, and protein concentrations compared to conventional liquid biopsy. The enrichment effect varied based on the biomarker type. No observed hemorrhage or tissue damage attributed to sonication suggests the safety of this approach. These results affirm the feasibility and safety of sonobiopsy in enriching DIPG-specific biomarkers in both plasma and CSF, suggesting sonobiopsy as a promising noninvasive molecular diagnostic tool for DIPG.
The acoustics of absorbers comprising a flexible perforated membrane backed by a stack of granular material
Authors: Mo Zhuang , Song Guochenhao , Yang Huawei , Shi Tongyang , Bolton J. S.
Published: July 2024

It has been found that when a layer of activated carbon partially fills the space behind a finite, edge-constrained, tensioned impermeable membrane, the absorption peaks due to the modal response of the membrane can be significantly enhanced in the low frequency range. In the present work, the modeling aspects of the latter work have been extended to allow the membrane to be both tensioned and flexurally stiff, and furthermore, to be micro-perforated, thus expanding the treatment design space. Second, the particle layer behind the membrane is modeled by using a two-dimensional finite difference implementation of the Biot poro-elastic theory which then accounts for the interaction of the particle layer and walls that contain it: i.e., the solid phase of the particle stack itself is allowed to exhibit modal behavior in the radial direction. The interaction of the membrane nearfield and the particle stack, which creates a nearfield damping effect, is also fully captured. Finally, the model accounts for the hierarchical porosity of activated carbon. The model has been verified by comparison with measurements and it has been found that strikingly high levels of low frequency absorption can be realized by appropriate optimization of the membrane and particle stack properties and geometry.
The impact of non-monotonic relaxation on numerical accuracy and stability of viscoelastic finite elements
Authors: Abercrombie Eric , McDaniel James G.
Published: July 2024

Analysis of sound and vibration in linear viscoelastic materials is based on a relaxation function that is the time-dependent stress resulting from a unit step in strain. It is well established that relaxation functions decrease monotonically in time. The most common constitutive relaxation functions, such as the Kelvin–Voigt or General Maxwell Model, produce curves that must be monotonic. However, recently, the authors have produced a methodology that allows the use of discrete data for the time-dependent relaxation function. One result of this approach is the possibility of non-monotonic relaxation function input. This non-monotonic data may be the result of test and measurement errors. Alternatively, this non-monotonicity may be an actual anomalous physical result, such as in rock salt (He et al. 2019). The authors use validated viscoelastic finite element models in the time domain to determine the instability caused by such non-monotonic datasets. The study uses randomized non-monotonic datasets that maintain the fundamental material trend to find unstable or inaccurate results. A mathematical review highlights the conditions causing numerical instability in modern stepwise time integration solvers. The results provide clarity for viscoelastic analysts considering low-precision viscoelastic measurements or unusual physical properties. [Work supported by ONR under Grant N00014-22-1-2785.]
Introducing speech communication
Authors: Tucker Benjamin V.
Published: July 2024

Research on speech communication investigates how speech is produced and how it is perceived. Researchers and practitioners who engage with speech communication come from various disciplines, such as audiology, computer science, engineering, linguistics, psychology, and speech pathology. Speech communication researchers seek to understand the acoustic signal as produced by a speaker or perceived by a listener. Research under the speech communication technical committee overlaps with other technical committees. In this presentation, I provide brief illustrations of various topics within speech communication, focusing on how people perceive and produce speech to communicate in the world's languages.
Towards Dirac-like physics in ultrasonic crystals
Authors: Gangemi Nicholas , Sieck Caleb F. , Vignola Joseph , Turo Diego , Baldwin Jeffrey , Liskey Steven , Edmunds Aaron , Wilson William , Photiadis Douglas , Matis Bernard
Published: July 2024

Ultrasonic crystals provide a novel path forward for studying Dirac-like physics in classical systems free from interaction effects and are considered promising candidates for the development of more complex multilayer systems, such as those governed by a Moire pattern. However, no ultrasonic crystal experiment (and to the best of our knowledge no experiment studying classical wave propagation in a hexagonal lattice) has measured linear dispersion along the Dirac cone at the edge of the Brillouin zone where the upper and lower bands touch, which must include a measure of reduced phase and group velocities along the cone. This presentation will discuss experimental and theoretical results on acoustic surface wave propagation in a hexagonal lattice of resonant cavities, which can aid in the observation of such Dirac-like physics for ultrasonic crystals.