bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior thalamic nuclei: A critical substrate for non‐spatial paired‐associate memory in rats
Authors: Hamilton Jennifer J. , Dalrymple‐Alford John C.
Published: August 2022

Injury or dysfunction in the anterior thalamic nuclei (ATN) may be the key contributory factor in many instances of diencephalic amnesia. Experimental ATN lesions impair spatial memory and temporal discriminations, but there is only limited support for a more general role in non‐spatial memory. To extend evidence on the effects of ATN lesions, we examined the acquisition of biconditional associations between odour and object pairings presented in a runway, either with or without a temporal gap between these items. Intact adult male rats acquired both the no‐trace and 10‐s trace versions of this non‐spatial task. Intact rats trained in the trace version showed elevated Zif268 activation in the dorsal CA1 of the hippocampus, suggesting that the temporal component recruited additional neural processing. ATN lesions completely blocked acquisition on both versions of this association‐memory task. This deficit was not due to poor inhibition to non‐rewarded cues or impaired sensory processing, because rats with ATN lesions were unimpaired in the acquisition of simple odour discriminations and simple object discriminations using similar task demands in the same apparatus. This evidence challenges the view that impairments in arbitrary paired‐associate learning after ATN lesions require the use of multimodal spatial stimuli. It suggests that diencephalic amnesia associated with the ATN stems from degraded attention to stimulus–stimulus associations and their representation across a distributed memory system.
Method for statistical evaluation of cumulative damage models applied to block loading
Authors: Hectors Kris , Van Hecke Tanja , De Waele Wim
Published: August 2022

There is an abundance of nonlinear fatigue damage accumulation models but a lack of verification and comparison to experimental datasets. First, an extensive two‐level block loading experimental fatigue dataset is reprocessed according to current standard practice. Next, four nonlinear damage accumulation models and the Palmgren–Miner linear damage rule are critically compared using a range of statistical metrics. For the considered dataset, the Palmgren–Miner rule consistently performs worst and the damage curve approach is found to perform significantly better than the other nonlinear models. This study shows that the current practice of performance verification of new fatigue damage accumulation models in literature is too limited which enables cherry‐picking of verification datasets to improve perceived performance. Future fatigue damage accumulation models should be verified much more rigorously to both readily available and new experimental datasets.
Latrophilin‐3 heterozygous versus homozygous mutations in Sprague Dawley rats: Effects on egocentric and allocentric memory and locomotor activity
Authors: Regan Samantha L. , Sugimoto Chiho , Dawson Hannah E. , Williams Michael T. , Vorhees Charles V.
Published: August 2022

Latrophilin‐3 (LPHN3) is a brain specific G‐protein coupled receptor associated with increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and cognitive deficits. CRISPR/Cas9 was used to generate a constitutive knockout (KO) rat of Lphn3 by deleting exon 3, based on human data that LPHN3 variants are associated with some cases of ADHD. Lphn3 KO rats are hyperactive with an attenuated response to ADHD medication and have cognitive deficits. Here, we tested KO, heterozygous (HET), and wildtype (WT) rats to determine if there was a gene‐dosage effect. We tested the rats in home‐cage activity starting at postnatal day (P)35 and P50, followed by tests of egocentric learning (Cincinnati water maze [CWM]), spatial learning (Morris water maze [MWM]), working memory (radial water maze [RWM]), incidental learning (novel object recognition [NOR]), acoustic startle response (ASR) habituation, tactile startle response (TSR) habituation, prepulse modification of acoustic startle, shuttle‐box passive avoidance, conditioned freezing, and a mirror image version of the CWM. KO and HET rats were hyperactive. KO and HET rats had egocentric (CWM) and spatial deficits (MWM), increased startle response, and KO rats showed less conditioned freezing on contextual and cued memory; there were no effects on working memory (RWM) or passive avoidance. The selective gene‐dosage effect in Lphn3 HET rats indicates that Lphn3 exhibits dominate expression on functions where it is most abundantly expressed (striatum, hippocampus) but not on behaviors mediated by regions of low expression. The data add further evidence to the impact of this synaptic protein on brain function and behavior.
How do we feed grazing livestock in the future? A case for knowledge‐driven grazing systems
Authors: Horn Juliane , Isselstein Johannes
Published: August 2022

Grassland degradation has been observed worldwide and is often a result of overexploitation or abandonment. Knowledge‐driven and precise grazing management is required to use grasslands' potential in a sustainable way. Information gaps lead to inefficiencies in grazing land management and ecosystem service provision. Rapid advances in automated sensors and information technologies for information acquisition on herbage availability, controlling animal grazing behaviour and setting up data‐driven decision support tools have the potential to improve grazing management. Sensors and IT‐based methods allow spatiotemporal dynamics in herbage mass and quality and sward structure and botanical composition to be obtained automatically. These monitoring methods enable a spatially and temporally precise adjustment of the forage allowance and stocking density. Virtual fencing (VF) is an innovative digital tool for fine‐tuned spatiotemporal control of grazing animals. VF enables farmers to adjust grazing flexibly and dynamically by moving the virtual borders on a mobile user interface and sending new coordinates to the GPS receiver unit on each animal's VF collar. VF promises high efficiency with no obvious negative impacts on animal welfare. The potential of VF is enormous, but its economic viability still needs to be verified and its acceptance by authorities and the public needs to be supported. A decision support system that optimizes grazing management and agronomic and ecological outcomes by integrating and analysing multiple data at high spatial and temporal resolution can provide sufficient knowledge and confidence in grazing management decisions. Integration of key technologies into a holistic concept can take grazing management to the next level.
Cold crystallization and morphology control of ZnO nanostructures for chemical sensors
Authors: Masuda Yoshitake
Published: August 2022

Cold crystallization and morphology control of ZnO nanostructures have been achieved. Various ZnO nanostructures, such as ZnO rod arrays, high c‐axis‐oriented stand‐alone ZnO self‐assembled films, ZnO particulate films, ZnO nanorod arrays, semicircular ZnO nanowhisker assemblies, bunched rose‐ and core–shell‐like ZnO particles, twin ZnO nanoarray assemblies, ZnO nanotubes, and ZnO nanoflowers, have been developed using the hexagonal crystal structure of ZnO. These structures have advantages, such as high anisotropy, high specific surface area, high crystallinity, and characteristic crystal facets, and can be applied in devices such as photoelectric conversion sensors, chemical sensors, gas sensors, batteries, and catalysts. Additionally, various nanostructures using other oxide materials are expected to be developed by applying the scientific knowledge obtained from the cold crystallization and morphology control of ZnO. Cold crystallization, which is a long‐standing challenge in the field of ceramics, has been realized, which is a historical turning point in the field of ceramics research.
Preparation and properties of ferrimagnetic glass–ceramic foams based on pyrite slag
Authors: Qu Xiaoyan , Liu Jianan , Zhang Meimei , Zhu Chaofeng , Zhao Yujun
Published: August 2022

By employing a melt‐sintering method, we prepared a new type of ferrimagnetic glass–ceramic foam (FGCF) using ferrimagnetic glass–ceramic and foaming agent SrCO3. The ferrimagnetic glass–ceramics were fabricated based on pyrite slag by a melt‐quenching method. The effects of foaming agent content, sintering temperature and time on microstructure, magnetic properties, microwave absorption performance, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of the as‐obtained FGCF were analyzed. This foaming process at 1100°C for 40 min with 3‐wt% SrCO3 provided an FGCF with a bulk density of .693 g/cm3, a porosity of 63.60%, a specific saturation magnetic moment of 5.2 A m2/kg, a compressive strength of 2.61 MPa, a thermal conductivity of .241 W/(m K), and the calculated reflection loss of −12.1 dB for a layer thickness of 9 mm.
Effect of microwave‐assisted acid extraction on the physicochemical properties and structure of soy hull polysaccharides
Authors: Cai Wenqi , Zhang Hongyun , Chen XinRu , Yan Shiyu , Yang Lina , Song Hong , Li Jun , Liu Jun , Yu Hansong , Liu He , Zhu Danshi
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the extraction method on the physicochemical and structural properties of soy hull polysaccharide (SHP). Four types of SHP were extracted from soy hulls under the conditions of microwave‐assisted oxalic acid (or citric acid) extraction and hot water extraction: MOSP, MCSP, HOSP and HCSP. The results showed the polysaccharide extraction rate of MOSP, HOSP, MCSP and HCSP was 11.97%, 8.99%, 6.22% and 4.74% respectively. SHP is mainly composed of arabinose, galactose, mannose and galacturonic acid, and the relative molecular weight range was 104–106 Da. FT‐IR showed that SHP contained hydroxyl, amido, ester, carboxyl and ether bonds. The fingerprints of SHP showed that the main chain composition and molecular weight of the four SHPs were similar, and the main constituent unit was 1,4‐α‐D‐GalpA. In addition, the branched chains of polysaccharides contained 1,5‐α‐L‐arabinoside bond, β‐ 1,4‐mannoside bond and β‐1,4‐galactoside bond.
Left, right, left, right: 24–36‐months‐olds’ planning and execution of simple alternating actions
Authors: Schröer Lisanne , Cooper Richard P. , Mareschal Denis
Published: August 2022

This study investigated toddlers' ability to control simple alternating pattern actions, and how this relates to motor competence and executive functions. 70 toddlers between 24 and 36 months of age were instructed to sort coins in an alternating pattern into two boxes; left, right, left, right etc. Executive functions and memory competence performance were assessed in additional small games. The results showed that the ability to plan and execute actions according to a simple extended alternating pattern improved over toddlerhood. Furthermore, working memory and motor competence scores were both independent predictors of the ability to plan and execute simple alternating actions. These findings underscore the fact that between 24 and 36 months of age is a period in which the ability to string together multiple actions in a sequence to achieve a distal goal is still developing.
Changes in selective attention to articulating mouth across infancy: Sex differences and associations with language outcomes
Authors: Lozano Itziar , López Pérez David , Laudańska Zuzanna , Malinowska‐Korczak Anna , Szmytke Magdalena , Radkowska Alicja , Tomalski Przemysław
Published: August 2022

Infants' attention to the mouth is thought to support language acquisition, yet this relation has been scantly tested longitudinally. This study assessed attention to the mouth and the eyes at 5.5 (n = 91; Polish, 49% females) and 11 months, between time‐point changes and their associations with language development in infancy (11 months) and toddlerhood (24 months). Sex differences were also explored. Results showed an age‐related increase in looking to the mouth, and the magnitude of this change was associated with productive language, but only in toddlerhood. By contrast, looking to the eyes did not change and its duration at 5.5 months correlated with language development at 2 years. Exploratory analyses showed that in females but not males, reduced mouth‐looking was related to better language outcomes in toddlerhood. Thus, looking to the mouth in infancy likely plays a long‐term role in language acquisition and is potentially modulated by participant sex.
Effecting change and improving practice in a regional Emergency Department: A Mental Health Nurse Practitioner's perspective
Authors: O'Sullivan Margaret
Published: August 2022

Abstract

Providing appropriate, timely intervention and care to people who present with mental health issues to an Emergency Department presents unique ongoing challenges, often affecting patient experiences and outcomes. To address such concerns, a Mental Health Liaison Nurse role, led by a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, was introduced to a regional Emergency Department. This role provided integrated emergency‐based mental health clinical practice, with positive findings reported in a recently published multi‐site translational research project. With sound quantitative and qualitative evidence detailing the benefits of this role, the experiential perspective from a clinician working in this frontline space further confirms the importance of having access to such a position in leading cultural and systemic change. This discussion article identifies key processes that align current research with the clinical perspective. Such processes recognize the challenges of implementing a new role and moving forward from these to embed consistent clinical practices. The need to build sound internal and external stakeholder partnerships, effect change implementation, and assign recommendations to ensure sustainability of improved practice and processes are highlighted in this paper. This article is, therefore, designed to assist other advanced practice nurses, who may be embarking on a similar journey and want to influence organizational policy and practice.
Relationship between items of DMIST and healing of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Tsuchiya Sayumi , Suriadi  , Sanada Hiromi , Sugama Junko , Oe Makoto
Published: August 2022

A monitoring tool for the wound‐healing process of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) was developed. It comprises seven domains, namely, depth, maceration, inflammation/infection, size, tissue type of the wound bed, type of wound edge, and tunnelling/undermining. It was named “DMIST” based on the initials of its domains. Although DMIST is useful for assessing wound‐healing processes, the monitoring items related to wound healing remain unclear, thereby making the selection of optimal care based on the assessment difficult. We identified the relationship between the DMIST items and wound healing. This study was a secondary analysis of five previous investigations and was conducted using DMIST based on the diabetic foot ulcer assessment scale score and DFU images. Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) after simultaneously controlling for potential confounders. The examined DFU healing status revealed that some DFUs healed at 4 weeks from baseline, whereas some DFUs did not. Variables considered in the models were the scores of each DMIST domain. The study population comprised 146 Indonesian patients and 33 Japanese patients. Depth, maceration, and size were associated with DFU healing at 4 weeks from baseline [depth: OR = 0.317 (95% CI: 0.145‐0.693, P = 0.004); maceration: OR = 0.445 (95% CI: 0.221‐0.896, P = 0.023); size: OR = 0.623 (95% CI: 0.451‐0.862, P = 0.004)]. Our findings suggest that appropriate management of maceration promotes DFU healing.
The experiences of spousal and adult child caregivers of stroke survivors in transitional care: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: See Toh Wen Xiu Samantha , Lim Wei Heong Joshua , Yobas Piyanee , Lim Siriwan
Published: August 2022

Aim

To synthesize and present the currently available literature on the experiences of spousal and adult child caregivers of stroke patients in transitional care.

Design

This is a qualitative systematic review.

Data Sources

Eight electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science, PsychINFO, ProQuest and Scopus) were searched from September 2020 to April 2022 for relevant literature and grey literature. Qualitative studies exploring the experiences of sspousal or adult child caregivers of stroke survivors up till 1 year after discharge were included.

Review Methods

The selection of articles was done by two independent reviewers who screened the titles and the abstracts of studies, and the full texts of selected articles. Quality appraisal and data extraction of selected articles were undertaken by two independent reviewers using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Data synthesis was conducted using a meta‐aggregative approach recommended by JBI.

Results

A total of 19 papers were included in this review. A total of three synthesized findings centred around caregivers' experience with healthcare professionals, changes in their life roles and needs, effects of caregiving and how they adapted to their changes were aggregated.

Conclusion

Spousal and adult child caregivers faced multiple barriers during transitional care, such as the lack of resources and an inability to cope with changes in their lives. Support and adequate preparation were key facilitators in easing stroke caregivers into their role.

Impact

The findings from this review can be used to guide future implementations of caregiver education programmes and comprehensive discharge planning for stroke survivors.
Social determinants of health on human immunodeficiency virus care quality in Indonesia
Authors: Qur'aniati Nuzul , Sweet Linda , De Bellis Anita , Hutton Alison
Published: August 2022

Aims

The aim was to examine the social determinants of health on human immunodeficiency virus care quality for children in Indonesia.

Design

A qualitative design using constructivist grounded theory methods was utilized.

Methods

Data were collected between 2019 and 2020 using in‐depth‐ interviews and memo writing. In total, 23 semi‐structured individual interviews with healthcare professionals, 12 with children with human immunodeficiency virus, and eight family members were conducted. Data were analysed with the two‐step initial coding and focused coding, along with the constant comparative method, theoretical sensitivity and memo writing.

Results

Five themes were constructed from participants' perspectives on human immunodeficiency virus care for children: (1) living with a low‐socioeconomic status, (2) lacking instrumental support, (3) experiencing complicated procedures for public health insurance, (4) limited Human Immunodeficiency Virus care services for children and (5) lacking care coordination, policies and practices.

Conclusion

Children living with human immunodeficiency virus had poor health outcomes, due to having a low‐socioeconomic status, reduced access to healthcare, coupled with a lack of social support services.

Impact

This study demonstrated how the social determinants of health negatively impact the quality of care for Indonesian children with human immunodeficiency virus and their families. Understanding these determinants would benefit health professionals, in particular nurses, to consider these factors in their assessment to create a holistic care plan for children living with human immunodeficiency virus and their families. Addressing the social determinants of health would beneficially enhance outcomes and well‐being of children living with human immunodeficiency virus health in Indonesia.
Animals and Relational Egalitarianism(s)
Authors: Bengtson Andreas
Published: August 2022

According to relational egalitarianism, a society is just insofar as the relations in that society are equal. Exclusively, relational egalitarians have been concerned with why humans, in particular adults, must relate as equals. This is unfortunate since relational egalitarians claim to be in line with the concerns of real‐life egalitarians; but real‐life egalitarians, such as vegans and vegetarians, clearly care about injustices committed against non‐human animals. In this article, I thus explore the role of non‐human animals in relational egalitarianism. I distinguish four accounts of relational egalitarianism and argue that they differ in what they imply for relationships between humans and animals. Interestingly, it will also become clear that in relational egalitarianism, a relation may not only be unequal or equal; it may also be non‐unequal.
Accuracy and clinical relevance of an automated, algorithm‐based analysis of facial signs from selfie images of women in the United States of various ages, ancestries and phototypes: A cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Flament Frederic , Jiang Ruowei , Houghton Jeff , Zhang Yuze , Kroely Camille , Jablonski Nina G. , Jean Aurelie , Clarke Jeffrey , Steeg Jason , Sehgal Cassidy , McParland James , Delaunay Caroline , Passeron Thierry
Published: August 2022

Background

Real‐life validation is necessary to ensure our artificial intelligence (AI) skin diagnostic tool is inclusive across a diverse and representative US population of various ages, ancestries and skin phototypes.

Objectives

To explore the relevance and accuracy of an automated, algorithm‐based analysis of facial signs in representative women of different ancestries, ages and phototypes, living in the same country.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study of selfie images of 1041 US women, algorithm‐based analyses of seven facial signs were automatically graded by an AI‐based algorithm and by 50 US dermatologists of various profiles (age, gender, ancestry, geographical location). For automated analysis and dermatologist assessment, the same referential skin atlas was used to standardize the grading scales. The average values and their variability were compared with respect to age, ancestry and phototype.

Results

For five signs, the grading obtained by the automated system were strongly correlated with dermatologists' assessments (r ≥ 0.75); cheek skin pores were moderately correlated (r = 0.63) and pigmentation signs, especially for the darkest skin tones, were weakly correlated (r = 0.40) to the dermatologist assessments. Age and ancestry had no effect on the correlations. In many cases, the automated system performed better than the dermatologist‐assessed clinical grading due to 0.3–0.5 grading unit differences among the dermatologist panel that were not related to any individual characteristic (e.g. gender, age, ancestry, location). The use of phototypes, as discontinuous categorical variables, is likely a limiting factor in the assessments of grading, whether obtained by automated analysis or clinical assessment of the images.

Conclusions

The AI‐based automatic procedure is accurate and clinically relevant for analysing facial signs in a diverse and inclusive population of US women, as confirmed by a diverse panel of dermatologists, although skin tone requires further improvement.
Lapillusotolith shape, a useful taxonomic feature for the identification of sea catfishes (Ariidae: Siluriformes) from the north‐eastern Pacific
Authors: Arroyo‐Zúñiga Karla Isela , Pacheco‐Ovando Renata , Granados‐Amores Esperanza , Granados‐Amores Jasmín , González Ramírez Javier , Díaz‐Santana‐Iturrios Mariana
Published: August 2022

Otolith shape is widely used as a taxonomic feature in fish systematics. In Siluriformes, thelapillusotolith is the most relevant character for taxonomic purposes, although its discriminant potential has not been assessed quantitatively. Our study model were sea catfishes of the family Ariidae from the north‐eastern Pacific as representatives of Siluriformes, a taxon with increased taxonomic complexity. Thelapillusotolith shape obtained by geometric morphometrics showed high discrimination potential both at the genus and species levels with an overall classification accuracy ofc.93% (K = 0.92). Due to the strong species delimitation exhibited bylapillusotolith shape, the descriptions and identification keys provided here are the most useful materials to recognize the eight sea catfish species evaluated. The shared similarities inlapillusotolith shape among species seem to be more influenced by phylogenetic relationships than other factors such as habitat. Thelapillusotolith shape is the most powerful taxonomic feature discovered so far for the identification of sea catfishes from the north‐eastern Pacific.
Outcomes of home‐based primary care for homebound older adults: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Federman Alex D. , Brody Abraham , Ritchie Christine S. , Egorova Natalia , Arora Arushi , Lubetsky Sara , Goswami Ruchir , Peralta Maria , Reckrey Jenny M. , Boockvar Kenneth , Shah Shivani , Ornstein Katherine A. , Leff Bruce , DeCherrie Linda , Siu Albert L.
Published: August 2022

Background

Homebound older adults are medically complex and often have difficulty accessing outpatient medical care. Home‐based primary care (HBPC) may improve care and outcomes for this population but data from randomized trials of HBPC in the United States are limited.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial of HBPC versus office‐based primary care for adults ages ≥65 years who reported ≥1 hospitalization in the prior 12 months and met the Medicare definition of homebound. HBPC was provided by teams consisting of a physician, nurse practitioner, nurse, and social worker. Data were collected at baseline, 6‐ and 12‐months. Outcomes were quality of life, symptoms, satisfaction with care, hospitalizations, and emergency department (ED) visits. Recruitment was terminated early because more deaths were observed for intervention patients.

Results

The study enrolled 229 patients, 65.4% of planned recruitment. The mean age was 82 (9.0) years and 72.3% had dementia. Of those assigned to HBPC, 34.2% never received it. Intervention patients had greater satisfaction with care than controls (2.26, 95% CI 1.46–3.06, p < 0.0001; effect size 0.74) and lower hospitalization rates (−17.9%, 95% CI −31.0% to −1.0%; p = 0.001; number needed to treat 6, 95% CI 3–100). There were no significant differences in quality of life (1.25, 95% CI −0.39–2.89, p = 0.13), symptom burden (−1.92, 95% CI −5.22–1.37, p = 0.25) or ED visits (1.2%, 95% CI −10.5%–12.4%; p = 0.87). There were 24 (21.1%) deaths among intervention patients and 12 (10.7%) among controls (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

HBPC was associated with greater satisfaction with care and lower hospitalization rates but also more deaths compared to office‐based primary care. Additional research is needed to understand the nature of the higher death rate for HBPC patients, as well as to determine the effects of HBPC on quality of life and symptom burden given the trial's early termination.
intER‐ACTINg: The structure and dynamics of ER and actin are interlinked
Authors: Pain Charlotte , Tolmie Frances , Wojcik Stefan , Wang Pengwei , Kriechbaumer Verena
Published: August 2022

The actin cytoskeleton is the driver of gross ER remodelling and the movement and positioning of other membrane‐bound organelles such as Golgi bodies. Rapid ER membrane remodelling is a feature of most plant cells and is important for normal cellular processes, including targeted secretion, immunity and signalling. Modifications to the actin cytoskeleton through pharmacological agents such as Latrunculin B and phalloidin, or disruption of normal myosin function also affect ER structure and/or dynamics. Here, we investigate the impact of changes in the actin cytoskeleton on structure and dynamics on the ER as well as in return the impact of modified ER structure on the architecture of the actin cytoskeleton. By expressing actin markers that affect actin dynamics, or expressing of ER‐shaping proteins that influence ER architecture, we found that the structure of ER‐actin networks is closely inter‐related; affecting one component is likely to have a direct effect on the other. Therefore, our results indicate that a complicated regulatory machinery and cross‐talk between these two structures must exist in plants to co‐ordinate the function of ER‐actin network during multiple subcellular processes. In addition, when considering organelle structure and dynamics, the choice of actin marker is essential in preventing off‐target organelle structure and dynamics modifications.
Potentiation of ASIC currents by lysophosphatidic acid in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons
Authors: Li Qing , Qiao Wen‐Long , Hao Jia‐Wei , Wei Shuang , Li Xue‐Mei , Liu Ting‐Ting , Qiu Chun‐Yu , Hu Wang‐Ping
Published: August 2022

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a phospholipid which has been implicated in pain. Acid‐sensing ion channels (ASICs) are important players in pain associated with tissue acidification. However, it is still unclear whether there is a link between LPA signaling and ASICs in pain processes. Herein, we show that a functional interaction between them in rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Pre‐application of LPA enhanced ASIC‐mediated and acid‐evoked inward currents in a concentration‐dependent manner. LPA shifted the concentration–response curve for protons upwards, with an increase of 41.79 ± 4.71% in the maximal current response of ASICs to protons in the presence of LPA. Potentiation of ASIC currents by LPA was blocked by the LPA1 receptor antagonist Ki16198, but not by the LPA2 receptor antagonist H2L5185303. The LPA‐induced potentiation was also prevented by intracellular application of either G protein inhibitor or protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, but not by Rho inhibitor. LPA also enhanced ASIC3 currents in CHO cells co‐expressing ASIC3 and LPA1 receptors, but not in cells expressing ASIC3 alone. Moreover, LPA increased the amplitude of the depolarization and the number of spikes induced by acid stimuli. Finally, LPA exacerbated acid‐induced nociceptive behaviors in rats. These results suggested that LPA enhanced ASIC‐mediated electrophysiological activity and nociception via a LPA1 receptor and its downstream PKC rather than Rho signaling pathway, which provided a novel peripheral mechanism underlying the sensitization of pain.

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Sacrospinous and sacrotuberous ligaments influence in pelvis kinematics
Authors: Henyš Petr , Ramezani Maziar , Schewitz Daniel , Höch Andreas , Möbius Dustin , Ondruschka Benjamin , Hammer Niels
Published: August 2022

The alteration in mechanical properties of posterior pelvis ligaments may cause a biased pelvis deformation which, in turn, may contribute to hip and spine instability and malfunction. Here, the effect of different mechanical properties of ligaments on lumbopelvic deformation is analyzed via the finite element method. First, the improved finite element model was validated using experimental data from previous studies and then used to calculate the sensitivity of lumbopelvic deformation to changes in ligament mechanical properties, load magnitude, and unilateral ligament resection. The deformation of the lumbopelvic complex relative to a given load was predominant in the medial plane. The effect of unilateral resection on deformation appeared to be counterintuitive, suggesting that ligaments have the ability to redistribute load and that they play an important role in the mechanics of the lumbopelvic complex.
Association between non‐anemic iron deficiency in early pregnancy and perinatal mental health: A retrospective pilot study
Authors: Ohsuga Takuma , Egawa Miho , Kii Misato , Ikeda Yumie , Ueda Akihiko , Chigusa Yoshitsugu , Mogami Haruta , Mandai Masaki
Published: August 2022

Aim

Postpartum anemia and iron deficiency are reportedly involved in postpartum depression, but the association between perinatal depression and iron deficiency with or without anemia is poorly documented. This pilot study retrospectively investigated the relationship between non‐anemic iron deficiency (NAID) in early pregnancy and perinatal depressive symptoms.

Methods

This study included 31 non‐anemic women among patients who received perinatal care with preserved residual serum from routine antenatal checkups in Kyoto University Hospital. All participants gave informed consent for research. The ferritin concentration in their preserved serum was measured. The hemoglobin (Hb) and ferritin in early pregnancy, as well as the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) at mid‐pregnancy and 1 month after childbirth were analyzed. Iron deficiency was defined as a serum ferritin concentration < 30 ng/mL.

Results

Based on the ferritin level in early pregnancy, 13 women (41.9%) had NAID, whereas 18 were normal. The mean Hb and ferritin were 12.7 ± 0.6 g/dL and 18.5 ± 5.8 ng/mL in the NAID group and 12.8 ± 0.9 g/dL and 74.7 ± 39.2 ng/mL in the normal group, respectively. The median EPDS scores at mid‐pregnancy and 1 month postpartum, respectively, were 2.0 (2.0–3.3) and 5.0 (4.0–6.6) in the NAID group and 4.5 (2.3–7.3) and 4.5 (2.3–5.7) in the normal group. EPDS scores increased significantly from mid‐pregnancy to 1 month postpartum in the NAID group only.

Conclusion

NAID in early pregnancy was highly prevalent and was suggested to reduce resilience to depression during the perinatal period.
Prevalence and outcome of lymphopenia in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit: A prospective observational study
Authors: Nallasamy Karthi , Magee Aidan , Millar K Johnny , Duke Trevor
Published: August 2022

Aim

Leukopenia (lymphopenia or neutropenia) may be an important marker of altered immunity and risk in children with critical illness. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence, course, and outcome of leukopenia in children admitted to Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).

Methods

All consecutive children (n = 200) admitted to PICU for any reason except malignancy or pre‐existing immune deficiency were enrolled during June–August 2018.

Results

Median (interquartile range) age was 2.2 (0.6–8.5) years. About 52% (n = 103) had undergone a surgical procedure; 34% (n = 68) being cardiac surgery. Among medical illnesses, respiratory disorders were the most common (n = 39, 20%). Laboratory confirmed infections were present in 63 (31.5%) children. Leukopenia was identified in 135 (67.5%) children in the first week; 117 (58.5%) had only lymphopenia, 16 (8%) had both lymphopenia and neutropenia, and 2 (1%) had only neutropenia. In 69 children who had follow‐up blood counts, lymphopenia resolved in 33 (48%) within 48 h and in another 20 (29%) by 4 days, and in a further 10 (14%) by 7 days. Children with lymphopenia had higher frequency of cardiac surgery, longer cardiopulmonary bypass time, greater need for invasive ventilation and vasopressor/inotrope therapy, and a higher probability of organ failure on day 4 and longer hospital stay.

Conclusion

In critically ill children, lymphopenia is very common, often transient, but may be associated with unfavourable outcomes. Further studies with follow‐up of blood counts in a larger sample are required to determine the course and outcomes of lymphopenia.
Melatonin alleviates PM2.5‐induced glucose metabolism disorder and lipidome alteration by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Du Zhou , Hu Junjie , Lin Lisen , Liang Qingqing , Sun Mengqi , Sun Zhiwei , Duan Junchao
Published: August 2022

Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was associated with an increased incidence of liver metabolic disease. Melatonin has been shown to prevent liver glucolipid metabolism disorders. However, whether melatonin could rescue PM2.5‐induced liver metabolic abnormalities remains uncertain. This study was to evaluate the mitigating effect of melatonin on PM2.5‐accelerated hepatic glucose metabolism imbalance in vivo and in vitro. Schiff periodic acid shiff staining and other results showed that PM2.5 led to a decrease in hepatic glycogen reserve and an increase in glucose content, which was effectively alleviated by melatonin. Targeted lipidomics is used to identify lipid biomarkers associated with this process, including glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, and sphingolipids. In addition, gene microarray and quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of ApoE−/− mice liver suggested that PM2.5 activated the miR‐200a‐3p and inhibited DNAJB9, and the targeting relationship was verified by luciferase reports for the first time. Further investigation demonstrated that DNAJB9 might motivate endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by regulating Ca2+ homeostasis, thus altering the protein expression of GSK3B, FOXO1, and PCK2. Meanwhile, melatonin effectively inhibited miR‐200a‐3p and glucose metabolism disorder. Knockout of miR‐200a‐3p in L02 cells revealed that miR‐200a‐3p is indispensable in the damage of PM2.5 and the therapeutic effect of melatonin. In summary, melatonin alleviated PM2.5‐induced liver metabolic dysregulation by regulating ER stress via miR‐200a‐3p/DNAJB9 signaling pathway. Our data provide a prospective targeted therapy for air pollution‐related liver metabolism disorders.
Insulin expression in β cells is reduced within islets before islet loss in diabetic cats
Authors: Bergomi V. , Beck S. , Dobromylskyj M. , Davison L. J. , Wills J. W. , Hughes K.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Diabetes mellitus is a common condition that requires intensive treatment and markedly impacts the welfare of affected cats. The aim of this study was to identify diabetes mellitus‐associated perturbations in the feline pancreatic islet microenvironment. The utility of “clear, unobstructed brain/body imaging cocktails and computational analysis” (CUBIC) for three‐dimensional pancreatic analysis was investigated.

Methods

Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues from cats with diabetes mellitus, or control cats without pancreatic pathology, were retrospectively identified. Immunohistochemistry for synaptophysin and ionised calcium binding adaptor molecule 1, and immunofluorescence for insulin and synaptophysin, were used to assess changes in islets. An image analysis pipeline was developed to analyse images acquired from two‐dimensional immunofluorescence. CUBIC was used to optically clear selected pancreas samples before immunofluorescence and deep three‐dimensional confocal microscopy.

Results

Diabetic cats have a significant reduction in synaptophysin‐positive islet area. Whilst islets from diabetic patients have similar numbers of β cells to islets from control cats, significantly lower intensity of insulin expression can be observed in the former. CUBIC facilitates clear visualisation of pancreatic islets in three dimensions.

Clinical Significance

The data presented support the theory that there is a decrease in function of β cells before their destruction, suggesting a potentially significant step in the pathogenesis of feline diabetes mellitus. In parallel, we demonstrate CUBIC as a valuable new tool to visualise the shape of feline pancreatic islets and to interrogate pathology occurring in the islets of diabetic pets.
Diagnostic imaging findings in a referral population of dogs diagnosed with immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia: 50 cases (2015‐2018)
Authors: De Laet N. , Fina C. , Dhumeaux M. , Hrovat A.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To describe and characterise changes documented on thoracic and abdominal imaging of dogs with confirmed immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia.

Materials and Methods

Medical records from a referral hospital were searched from 2015 to 2018 for all dogs diagnosed with immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia that underwent thoracic and abdominal imaging by radiography, ultrasound or computed tomography.

Results

Fifty dogs were included. Thoracic imaging revealed abnormalities in 10 dogs (20%) of which lymphadenopathy and cardiomegaly were documented in four dogs (8%) each, and pleural effusion and pleural thickening in one dog (2%) each. Abdominal imaging revealed abnormalities in 43 dogs (86%), in which hepatomegaly and peritoneal effusion were documented in 20 (40%) and 19 dogs (38%), gallbladder wall thickening and sludge in 16 (32%) and 14 dogs (28%) and splenic nodules and splenomegaly in 13 (26%) and seven dogs (14%), respectively. Hepatic and splenic abnormalities were further investigated via fine needle aspirates in 18 dogs and revealed extramedullary haematopoiesis in 12 hepatic (66.7%) and 14 splenic (77.8%) fine needle aspirate samples. Cholecystocentesis was performed in nine dogs with gallbladder abnormalities and revealed bactibilia in three samples (33.3%).

Clinical Significance

In this population of dogs with immune‐mediated haemolytic anaemia, thoracic imaging abnormalities were uncommon. Hepatomegaly, peritoneal effusion and gallbladder wall thickening were the most common abdominal imaging findings with bactibilia confirmed in one third of collected bile samples. Hepatosplenomegaly and abdominal lymphadenopathy were not associated with neoplasia in any of the dogs included in this study.
Quality of life of parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An integrative literature review
Authors: Turnage Dawn , Conner Norma
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper presents an integrated literature review of the quality of life (QOL) in parents of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The rate of ASD is increasing. Parents of children with ASD have higher levels of stress and burden, which may lead to lower QOL.

Design and Methods

A comprehensive, electronic search was performed to retrieve 15 relevant articles, including 5565 participants. An integrative review was performed to appraise and synthesize findings.

Results

QOL was found to be lower in parents of children with ASD in physical, psychological, and social health and in spirituality, as compared with adults who were not parents of children with ASD. The strongest risk factor for parental QOL was the severity of the diagnosis of ASD. Protective factors for parental QOL were parent education level and levels of severity of ASD in the child.

Practice Implications

Nurses can support families impacted by ASD, particularly severe ASD, through tailored resources to support early diagnosis and intervention, through the support of policies affecting low‐income families, and through increased awareness of severe ASD and its' impact on the child and the family.
Diagnostic yield of uroendoscopy compared to ultrasonography for evaluating lower urinary tract disorders in dogs
Authors: Hsieh Emmelyn S. , Palm Carrie , Segev Gilad , Johnson Eric G. , Leung Kaitlin , Westropp Jodi L.
Published: August 2022

Background

Cystourethroscopy and vaginoscopy (uroendoscopy) is often used in the diagnostic evaluation of dogs with lower urinary tract disorders (LUTD).

Objective/Hypothesis

To evaluate if uroendoscopy is warranted in dogs with various LUTD, the agreement between uroendoscopic and ultrasonographic diagnoses were compared. Dogs with recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTI) will have the highest diagnostic agreement between uroendoscopy and ultrasonography (US) compared to dogs presenting for other LUTD.

Animals

Two hundred thirty‐seven dogs presenting between 2014 and 2019 with lower urinary tract signs (LUTS) that had US within 60 days preceding uroendoscopy.

Methods

Retrospective study. Dogs were categorized by primary indication for ultrasound. Pertinent uroendoscopic findings were recorded and agreements (κ analysis) between the final uroendoscopic diagnosis were compared with the final ultrasonographic diagnosis.

Results

Pertinent uroendoscopic findings were recorded for 69/237 (29%) cases. For dogs presenting primarily for urinary incontinence (UI), agreement between uroendoscopy and US was 71% (46/65; κ = 0.47, 95% CI 0.28‐0.66), for dogs with stranguria, 58% (29/50; κ = 0.47, 95% CI 0.31‐0.62) and for dogs with rUTI the agreement was substantial at 87% (26/30; κ = 0.70, 95% CI 0.43‐0.98). Urethral strictures were the majority (14/21; 67%) of pertinent uroendoscopic findings for dogs with stranguria, of which 12 were male dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Agreement between uroendoscopy and US was moderate for all dogs. Based on these data, recommendation for uroendoscopy should be tailored to individual clinical presentation and signalment; transabdominal US is not the preferred modality for urethral lesions.
A framework to interpret co‐occurrence patterns from camera trap data: The case of the gray fox, the bobcat, and the eastern cottontail rabbit in a tropical dry habitat
Authors: Andrade‐Ponce Gabriel Patricio , Mandujano Salvador , Dáttilo Wesley , Farías‐González Verónica , Jiménez José , Velásquez‐C Karen , Zavaleta Arturo
Published: August 2022

In mammals, ecological interactions are difficult to observe directly, so they are usually inferred from co‐occurrence data. Direct interpretation of co‐occurrence patterns can be complicated since they may be the result of different processes such as habitat selection. We propose a logical framework along with multispecies occupancy models, to distinguish which process or interaction of processes gives rise to co‐occurrence patterns. We also used temporal kernel density estimates to explore the overlap in diel activity patterns, and ecological knowledge of the species as a complement to explain the drivers that generate co‐occurrence. To test our framework, we analyzed three mammal species: the bobcat (Lynx rufus), the gray fox (Urocyon cinereoargenteus), and their potential prey, the eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus), in a tropical dry habitat at Tehuacán‐Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, Mexico. Data were collected across 67 camera trap stations that operated from February to August 2018. The best‐fitted model described the spatial interaction between U. cinereoargenteus and L. rufus with S. floridanus; in both cases, the occupancy probability of the predatory species was higher in the presence of their prey than in their absence. Additionally, the three species presented a high overlap in their temporal activity patterns. Based on the knowledge of the species' ecology and our results, we identified that trophic interactions could be an important process shaping the co‐occurrence patterns of these species. In short, our framework highlights that it is possible to discern among the processes that influence the co‐occurrence patterns for species with well‐defined ecological roles, such as in our study system.
Rhetoric, oracy and citizenship: curricular innovations from Scotland, Slovenia and Norway
Authors: Holmes‐Henderson Arlene , Žmavc Janja , Kaldahl Anne‐Grete
Published: August 2022

This article positions rhetoric as a bridge between oracy and citizenship education. The first comparative curricular study of Scotland, Slovenia and Norway, it demonstrates shared policy aims and practical challenges in the delivery of oracy and citizenship education in these three nations. We argue that the study of rhetoric equips young learners with the skills to think critically, listen actively and speak strategically. But rhetoric goes further than existing policy ambitions for oracy; it includes civic training, and cultivates skills for democratic deliberation and participation in society. Rhetoric empowers young people with the knowledge and skills to construct compelling arguments, and deconstruct the arguments of others, thereby cultivating eloquent and critical citizens. We explore the motivations for the teaching of rhetoric (to learners aged 7–16) in each national educational system, which range from significant coverage (Slovenia) to scant reference (Scotland), with Norway representing the middle ground, and we assess the importance of ancient teachings of rhetoric in contemporary classrooms. We outline the policy and curricular challenges associated with training teachers to teach rhetoric and share testimonies from both staff and students regarding their learning experiences with something which is ‘new’ to many, yet ‘ancient’ to some.