bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness and safety of therapeutic plasma exchange in neurological diseases: An 11‐year report from a tertiary care center
Authors: Korkmaz Gulten , Dagdas Simten , Saltoglu Tugce , Ceran Funda , Aydın Muruvvet Seda , Bektas Hesna , Subutay Nese , Dilek Imdat , Ozet Gulsum
Published: November 2024

Background

Therapeutic plasma exchange has been a well‐known treatment method for many years and is widely available. It leads to the improvement of neurological symptoms in autoimmune neurological diseases by the removal of antibodies. The aim of this study was to present therapeutic plasma exchange responses and procedure‐related adverse events in patients with autoimmune neurological diseases based on our 11‐year experience.

Method

A retrospective evaluation was conducted on adult patients who underwent a therapeutic plasma exchange procedure due to neurological diseases between January 2013 and January 2024. Data were gathered from electronic and written hospital and apheresis unit records.

Results

A total of 265 patients underwent 1274 procedures with a preliminary diagnosis of autoimmune neurological disease. Five patients were excluded from the analysis due to their final diagnoses. The most common clinical indications were Guillain‐Barré syndrome (45.4%), myasthenia gravis (26.1%), and multiple sclerosis (19.2%). The overall response rate was 81.3%, with 21.7% exhibiting a complete response and 59.6% demonstrating a partial response. With the exception of one patient (hypertensive crisis), no complications necessitating the termination of the procedure were observed. The most prevalent complication was an easily manageable allergic reaction.

Conclusion

Therapeutic plasma exchange has been demonstrated to be an efficacious and safe treatment option in autoimmune neurological diseases, with a favorable overall response rate and a manageable mild‐to‐moderate side effect profile.
New Zealand: Political Developments and Data in 2023
Authors: BARKER FIONA , DREYER WILL
Published: November 2024

The year 2023 was a year of substantial change in Aotearoa New Zealand. After the surprise resignation of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern early in the year, new Labour Prime Minister Chris Hipkins struggled with opposition to his policy agenda, ministerial scandals and an acknowledged cost‐of‐living crisis. At the October 2023 general election, Labour's nationwide vote almost halved relative to its high point in the 2020 elections, and it performed especially poorly in Auckland where there was lingering resentment about the effects of multiple, prolonged COVID‐19 lockdowns. After protracted negotiations, a three‐way coalition government of the National Party, ACT New Zealand and New Zealand First was formed, with Christopher Luxon as Prime Minister. The shift in policy direction and tone from the Ardern and Hipkins eras was both striking and immediate. Before year's end, the coalition government had repealed several of Labour's flagship policy reforms and priorities, including in areas such as co‐governance, public health, environmental regulations, water governance and justice.
Risk‐stratification tools for emergency department patients with syncope: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of direct evidence for SAEM GRACE
Authors: Wakai Abel , Sinert Richard , Zehtabchi Shahriar , Souza Ian S. de , Benabbas Roshanak , Allen Robert , Dunne Eric , Richards Rebekah , Ardilouze Amelie , Rovic Isidora
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Approximately 10% of patients with syncope have serious or life‐threatening causes that may not be apparent during the initial emergency department (ED) assessment. Consequently, researchers have developed clinical decision rules (CDRs) to predict adverse outcomes and risk stratify ED syncope patients. This systematic review and meta‐analysis (SRMA) aims to cohere and synthesize the best current evidence regarding the methodological quality and predictive accuracy of CDRs for developing an evidence‐based ED syncope management guideline.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search according to the patient–intervention–control–outcome question: In patients 16 years of age or older who present to the ED with syncope for whom no underlying serious/life‐threatening condition was found during the index ED visit (population), are risk stratification tools (intervention), better than unstructured clinical judgment (i.e., usual care; comparison), for providing accurate prognosis and aiding disposition decision for outcomes within 30 days (outcome)? Two reviewers independently assessed articles for inclusion and methodological quality. We performed statistical analysis using Meta‐DiSc. We used GRADEPro GDT software to determine the certainty of the evidence and create a summary of the findings (SoF) tables.

Results

Of 2047 publications obtained through the search strategy, 31 comprising 13 CDRs met the inclusion criteria. There were 13 derivation studies (17,578 participants) and 24 validation studies (14,845 participants). Only three CDRs were validated in more than two studies. The San Francisco Syncope Rule (SFSR) was validated in 12 studies: positive likelihood ratio (LR+) 1.15–4.70 and negative likelihood ratio (LR−) 0.03–0.64. The Canadian Syncope Risk Score (CSRS) was validated in five studies: LR+ 1.15–2.58 and LR− 0.05–0.50. The Osservatorio Epidemiologico sulla Sincope nel Lazio (OESIL) risk score was validated in five studies: LR+ 1.16–3.32 and LR− 0.14–0.46.

Conclusions

Most CDRs for ED adult syncope management have low‐quality evidence for routine clinical practice use. Only three CDRs (SFSR, CSRS, OESIL) are validated by more than two studies, with significant overlap in operating characteristics.
Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura and Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhang Hong , Shi Lixia , Shang Hui , Yang Huili
Published: November 2024

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) affects 1–3 out of every 10 000 pregnancies, posing significant risks to both mothers and newborns. The condition often requires careful management to prevent severe hemorrhagic events. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science searched for relevant literature until June 2024. A meta‐analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of ITP on maternal and fetal outcomes. The results showed that antepartum hemorrhage occurred in 0.17 (95% CI = 0.12–0.25) of patients and postpartum hemorrhage occurred in 0.11 (95% CI = 0.07–0.16) of pregnant women with ITP. About 0.63 (95% CI = 0.50–0.74) of pregnant women needed treatment for ITP. The cesarean section (CS) rate was 0.48 (95% CI = 0.34–0.61), and the occurrence of preterm labor was 0.14 (95% CI = 0.07–0.24). A total of 0.32 of neonates had thrombocytopenia (95% CI = 0.18–0.52). The difference between the platelet count of those diagnosed with ITP before pregnancy and those diagnosed after pregnancy was significant (MD = –31.50, 95% CI = 51.29–11.72, p < 0.01). This meta‐analysis highlights the significant impact of ITP on pregnancy, estimating risks of bleeding, CS, gestational diabetes, preterm labor, and neonatal thrombocytopenia. These findings underscore the need for vigilant monitoring and tailored management of pregnant women with ITP.
How First Nations peoples living in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area describe and discuss social and emotional well‐being
Authors: Webb Torres , Meldrum Kathryn , Wapau Chenoa , Sagigi Betty , Quigley Rachel , Strivens Edward , Russell Sarah
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study was the first phase of a broader project designed to develop a new tool to screen social and emotional well‐being (SEWB). Its objective was to identify words used by First Nations people living in the Torres Strait (Zenadth Kes) and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) to describe and discuss SEWB. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We acknowledge the First Nations peoples who took part in this project as holders of their cultural knowledge now and forevermore.

Setting

This study took place in community and primary health care settings located on islands of the Torres Strait and NPA of Australia.

Participants

Twelve yarns with 35 community members and health professionals were led by Torres Strait Islander members of the project team between August and December 2022.

Design

This study employed a descriptive qualitative design. Yarning, an Australian First Nations relational method, was used to share stories about SEWB. All but one yarn was audio recorded and subsequently professionally transcribed. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the yarns.

Results

Worry, sad and stress were the words most often used by participants to describe feelings of low SEWB. Signs of low SEWB included behaviour change, particularly significantly reduced community engagement.

Conclusions

Worry is not a word that is used in Australian mainstream tools that screen for psychological distress. Findings of this study indicate that a question that asks about worries should be included when screening for low SEWB in Australian First Nations peoples living in the Torres Strait and NPA.
Investigation of the diagnostic accuracy of basophil activation test for allergic phenotypes of rhinitis
Authors: Testera‐Montes Almudena , Ariza Adriana , Sola‐Martinez Rosa Alba , Aranda Carlos Jose , Bentabol‐Ramos Guillermo , Sanchez‐Torralvo Dulce , Mayorga Cristobalina , Torres Maria Jose , Eguiluz‐Gracia Ibon , Rondon Carmen
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Basophil activation test (BAT) might be an alternative to nasal allergen challenge (NAC) to identify the allergic etiology in rhinitis patients. Here, we investigate the diagnostic performance of BAT for allergic phenotypes of rhinitis.

Methods

Rhinitis patients and healthy controls were subjected to NAC with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (DP), Alternaria alternata (AA), grass (GP) and olive (OP) pollens. Rhinitis subjects also underwent skin prick test (SPT) with relevant allergens. Patients were classified into allergic rhinitis (AR, positive NAC and SPT), local allergic rhinitis (LAR, positive NAC and negative SPT), dual allergic rhinitis (DAR, defined as AR for ≥1 allergen and LAR for ≥1 allergen), and non‐allergic rhinitis (NAR, negative NAC and SPT) phenotypes. BAT with DP, AA, GP and OP was conducted in study individuals and compared with NAC results.

Results

A total of 47 AR, 31 DAR, 26 LAR, 12 NAR and 21 control subjects were recruited. The best positivity cut‐offs of BAT for DP‐, AA‐, GP‐ and OP‐driven allergy (all phenotypes) were a %CD63 cells of 8.650, 14.250, 26.200, and 12.780, respectively (AUC 0.851, 0.701, 0.887, and 0.921, respectively).

Sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive values of BAT (all phenotypes) ranged 43.5%(AA)‐83.3%(OP), 88.9%(GP)‐100%(AA), 87%(GP)‐100%(AA), and 61.1%(DP)‐80.0%(pollens), respectively. BAT identified 79%–100% of SPT‐positive allergies (AR and DAR), and 25%–75% of SPT‐negative allergies (LAR and DAR), while ≤10% of NAR/HC subjects tested positive. BAT positivity correlated with rhinitis severity in LAR patients (p = 0.018), and associated with conjunctivitis (p = 0.015) in allergic subjects.

Conclusion

BAT can replace NAC for AR confirmation, and limit the number of NAC required for LAR and DAR diagnosis. BAT can demonstrate sIgE in SPT‐negative allergies.
Effect of bariatric surgery on the pharmacokinetics of drugs used for attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder—A case series
Authors: Krabseth Hege‐Merete , Strømmen Magnus , Helland Arne , Spigset Olav
Published: November 2024

Background

Changes in gastrointestinal physiology following bariatric surgery may affect the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Data on the impact of bariatric surgery on drugs used for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are limited.

Methods

In patients treated with ADHD medication and undergoing bariatric surgery, serial drug concentrations were measured for 24 h preoperatively and one, six and 12 months postoperatively. Primary outcome was change in area under the concentration‐time curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC0–24), with other pharmacokinetic variables as secondary outcomes.

Results

Eight patients treated with lisdexamphetamine (n = 4), dexamphetamine (n = 1), methylphenidate (n = 1) and atomoxetine (n = 2) were included. In total, 409 samples were analysed. Patients underwent sleeve gastrectomy (n = 5) and Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (n = 3). AUC0–24 and Cmax of dexamphetamine increased after surgery in those using the prodrug lisdexamphetamine. There was no clear‐cut reduction in tmax postoperatively. For ritalinic acid and atomoxetine, no changes in AUC0–24 were observed, but for atomoxetine, a higher Cmax and a shorter tmax were observed postoperatively.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery may increase the systemic exposure of dexamphetamine after intake of lisdexamphetamine. Patients using lisdexamphetamine should be followed with regard to adverse drug reactions after bariatric surgery, and, if available, therapeutic drug monitoring should be considered.
The ethics of autonomous neurosurgical robots (ANRs)
Authors: Townsend Arturo Balaguer
Published: November 2024

It may only be a handful of years before fully autonomous neurosurgical robots (ANRs) are pushed into widespread clinical adoption. Nevertheless, whether it is ethical to greenlight the development and adoption of ANRs is still up for debate. On the one hand, the widespread adoption of ANRs may lead to unprecedented therapeutic effects, increase sterility, improve pain profiles, increase precision, and reduce complications over the long term. On the other hand, ANRs may lead to human neurosurgical skill atrophy, increased legal uncertainty, increased burnout rates, and may produce no significant effect on pain profiles or complication rates, all of which may put patients at novel levels of risk. At this watershed, it is critical for stakeholders to preemptively deliberate about whether they would ultimately agree to these ethical trade‐offs and decide to consciously support, thus help usher in the advent of autonomous neurosurgical technology.
A single‐session feedback training modifies interpretation bias in individuals with high social anxiety: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Choi Jisu , Kim Geunyoung , Yang Jae‐Won
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The ability to interpret facial expressions accurately is important to adaptive social functioning. Social anxiety disorder is associated with a biased interpretation of facial emotions. This study aimed to demonstrate the effects of feedback training on modifying interpretation bias in individuals with high social anxiety.

Methods

A total of 451 university students were screened, and 69 participants with high social anxiety were randomly assigned to either a training (n = 37) or a control (n = 32) group. Participants completed pre‐questionnaires on social anxiety and depression symptoms, then performed a single session of experiment, followed by post‐questionnaires on social anxiety symptoms. In the experiment, participants viewed an ambiguous facial expression and rated the intensity on a continuous scale. The training group received feedback that presented their ratings alongside the actual intensity, allowing them to accurately assess their emotional perception bias through trial‐by‐trial feedback. The control group received no feedback.

Results

The training group showed a significant reduction in interpretation bias for happy and angry faces after the experiment, while the control group did not. However, although the training group's social anxiety symptoms decreased post‐experiment, the difference was not statistically significant compared to the control group.

Conclusions

These findings provide preliminary evidence that the feedback training targeting dimensional ratings of emotions may be a promising option for correcting interpretation bias in individuals with high social anxiety. Future research could implement multiple sessions of training to potentially reduce both interpretation bias and social anxiety symptoms and verify the long‐term effects.
Altered immune response is associated with sex difference in vulnerability to Alzheimer's disease in human prefrontal cortex
Authors: Wen Huiying , He Youzhe , Tang Yuanchun , Zhu Langjian , Tao Quyuan , Jin Bufan , Luo Ting , Peng Yujie , Wei Yanrong , Lei Junjie , Wang Lifang , Wang Fan , Ling Fei , Gao Yue , Han Lei
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with a higher risk incidence in females than in males, and there are also differences in AD pathophysiology between sexes. The role of sex in the pathogenesis of AD may be crucial, yet the cellular and molecular basis remains unclear. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis using four public transcriptome datasets of AD patients and age‐matched control individuals in prefrontal cortex, including bulk transcriptome (295 females and 402 males) and single‐nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA‐seq) data (224 females and 219 males). We found that the transcriptomic profile in female control was similar to those in AD. To characterize the key features associated with both the pathogenesis of AD and sex difference, we identified a co‐expressed gene module that positively correlated with AD, sex, and aging, and was also enriched with immune‐associated pathways. Using snRNA‐seq datasets, we found that microglia (MG), a resident immune cell in the brain, demonstrated substantial differences in several aspects between sexes, such as an elevated proportion of activated MG, altered transcriptomic profile and cell–cell interaction between MG and other brain cell types in female control. Additionally, genes upregulated in female MG, such as TLR2, MERTK, SPP1, SLA, ACSL1, and FKBP5, had high confidence to be identified as biomarkers to distinguish AD status, and these genes also interacted with some approved drugs for treatment of AD. These findings underscore the altered immune response in female is associated with sex difference in susceptibility to AD, and the necessity of considering sex factors when developing AD biomarkers and therapeutic strategies, providing a scientific basis for further in‐depth studies on sex differences in AD.
CRBN‐PROTACs in Cancer Therapy: From Mechanistic Insights to Clinical Applications
Authors: Thapa Riya , Bhat Asif Ahmad , Gupta Gaurav , Renuka Jyothi S. , Kaur Irwanjot , Kumar Sachin , Sharma Naveen , Prasad G. V. Siva , Pramanik Atreyi , Ali Haider
Published: November 2024

Cereblon (CRBN), a member of the E3 ubiquitin ligase complex, has gained significant attention as a therapeutic target in cancer. CRBN regulates the degradation of various proteins in cancer progression, including transcription factors and signaling molecules. PROTACs (proteolysis‐targeting chimeras) are a novel approach that uses the cell's degradation system to remove disease‐causing proteins selectively. CRBN‐dependent PROTACs work by tagging harmful proteins for destruction through the ubiquitin–proteasome system. This strategy offers several advantages over traditional protein inhibition methods, including the potential to overcome drug resistance. Recent progress in developing CRBN‐based PROTACs has shown promising preclinical results in both hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. Additionally, CRBN‐based PROTACs have enhanced our understanding of CRBN's role in cancer, potentially serving as biomarkers for patient stratification and predicting therapeutic responses. In this review, we delineate the mechanisms of action for CRBN‐dependent PROTACs (CRBN‐PROTACs), summarize recent advances in preclinical and clinical applications, and provide our perspective on future development.
In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Mechanistic Investigation of Quinazolin‐4(1H)‐One Linked Coumarin as a Potent Anticancer Agent
Authors: Singla Dinesh , Sharma Palak , Luxami Vijay , Paul Kamaldeep
Published: November 2024

Quinazolinone‐coumarin conjugates synthesized through Late‐Stage Functionalization approach are evaluated for their in vitro biological activity for 60 human cancer cell lines representing nine different cancer types. Among the synthesized compounds, eight displayed significant growth inhibitory activity across a spectrum of cancer types, with compound 23 demonstrating particularly notable cytotoxicity. Further investigation involved a five‐dose assay of compound 23 against NCI‐60 cancer cell lines, revealing its efficacy at different concentrations. Additionally, binding studies elucidated its interaction with Human Serum Albumin (HSA) and DNA. The results indicated a strong binding affinity of 23 with HSA, evidenced by a high binding constant (2.26 × 105 M−1). Moreover, its interaction with DNA occurred via intercalation, specifically between the base pairs of DNA strands, with a binding constant of 5.51 × 104 M−1. This suggests that compound 23 has the ability to bind to both DNA and transport proteins, making it a promising pharmacophore with potential therapeutic applications.
Changes in Donor‐Derived Cell‐Free DNA Before and After Rejection and De Novo DSA Detection in Primary and Repeat Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Parajuli Sandesh , Garg Neetika , Dodin Ban , Breyer Isabel , Zona Emily , Patel Shree , Pinney Kevin , Mandelbrot Didier
Published: November 2024

Background

Serial monitoring of dd‐cfDNA and change from baseline can provide meaningful information beyond absolute thresholds. We describe dd‐cfDNA trajectories from the baseline before and after acute rejection (AR) and de novo donor‐specific antibodies (dnDSA) detection in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs).

Methods

We included KTR from 02/2019 to 03/2022 with serial dd‐cfDNA. The primary analysis compared the time‐varying change in dd‐cfDNA from baseline in KTR first AR on biopsy [AR] to patients with no‐AR on biopsy [no‐AR].

Results

151 KTR were analyzed (AR = 56 KTR, no‐AR = 95 KTRs). In the AR group, dd‐cfDNA rose ahead of diagnosis: median rise from baseline was 75% at −3 months, 32% at −2 months, and 325% at −1 month before biopsy. At the time of biopsy, the median rise in dd‐cfDNA from baseline was 291% (IQR [interquartile range] 88%–1081%) in AR and 17% (IQR 0%– 194%) in no‐AR (p < 0.0001). Following treatment, dd‐cfDNA values fell in the AR group with a median change from baseline of 94.7% at +1 month, 10.5% at +2 months, and 0% at +3 months. These trajectories were not observed in the no‐AR group. Similarly, there were no significant differences in eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) trajectories between the two groups. The median change from baseline to dnDSA detection was 141% (IQR 112%–574%). In KTRs with persistent rejection, median dd‐cfDNA was 0.95% (IQR 0.44–1.8) compared to 0.19% (IQR 0.12–0.31) in subjects with no rejection on follow‐up (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The significant changes from baseline observed before and after AR show how serial monitoring enhances dd‐cfDNA utility and allows for earlier identification of evolving injury and monitoring treatment response.
Kaposi Sarcoma in the Context of Post‐Modified Radical Mastectomy: A New Case Report and Brief Review
Authors: Genedy Rasha Mahmoud , El Sayed Naglaa Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Kaposi sarcoma is a human herpesvirus 8–associated angio‐proliferative tumor arising from lymphatic endothelial cells. Four clinical subtypes are known: classic, epidemic, endemic, and iatrogenic. The development of Kaposi sarcoma and lymphedema may be interlinked, where each condition could potentially support the progression of the other. Post‐mastectomy lymphedema is a commonly recognized complication following radical mastectomy. Angiosarcoma is the most frequently reported neoplasm in such a situation. We present a 72‐year‐old female who developed Kaposi sarcoma on the same side of mastectomy 9 years following her initial diagnosis and treatment for cancer breast. The diagnosis of Kaposi sarcoma was based on the histopathologic findings and was confirmed with immunohistochemical staining for human herpes virus 8 and D2‐40. Lymphedema may be associated with local immune suppression manifested in the form of defective cell–mediated immunity and antigen‐presenting cell migration defect which may facilitate development of neoplasms. It is important to differentiate Kaposi sarcoma from other vascular tumors which may have a much worse prognosis. Patients with lymphedema should receive appropriate management and undergo long‐term follow‐up for early detection of any potential malignancies.
Bridging Technology, Design, and Management: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Innovation in the AI Era
Authors: Lee Cecilia , Carbajal Carlos
Published: November 2024

Not a single domain of technology, design, or management can fully tackle AI's ethical, practical, and strategic dimension.

A service design approach is used to explore the intersection of technology, design, and management for a responsible AI implementation that fosters innovation but is also ethically aligned and strategically integrated.
Stress Distribution in Traumatized Teeth Splinted With Fiber Localizing on Incisal/Cervical Positions: A Three‐Dimensional Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Ding Qian‐wen , Yang Hongjia , Wang Tianjiao , Lin Mei
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim

The fiber splint represents an advanced treatment for traumatized dental injuries. The complete understanding of the localization of a splint on traumatized teeth remains elusive. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the incisal/cervical positions of the fiber splint on the stress distribution of traumatized dental roots in various occlusal relationships.

Materials and Methods

Three‐dimensional finite element models were generated based on a cone beam computer tomogram of a patient. The incisal and cervical splints were simulated by strips that were bonded close to the incisal/cervical labial surface of traumatic teeth. Force was loaded on the incisal ridge, incisal and cervical positions on the palatal surface of each tooth to simulate the conditions of traumatized teeth during mastication. The equivalent stress (von Mises) on the traumatic teeth and abutment teeth was calculated by Ansys software (version 2021, R1).

Results

The incisal splint effectively transferred the stress from the traumatized tooth roots to the abutment teeth when force was loaded on the incisal ridge and incisal and cervical positions on the palatal surface. Nevertheless, the reduction effect was notably diminished when the cervical splint was used. Notably, in cases of cervical splints, with a loading force on the incisal ridge, there is an increase in stress on the roots of traumatized teeth, which poses a disadvantage in the management of traumatic dental injuries.

Conclusion

The incisal splint demonstrated a more effective transfer of stress from the roots of the traumatic teeth to the abutment teeth than the cervical splint and the raw.
Estimating family shopping behavior: A multi‐perspective approach to understanding grocery shopping
Authors: Hummel Gerrit , Nützel Annalena , Eder Cora , Strubich Patrick Thomas , Stroebele‐Benschop Nanette
Published: November 2024

This study examines weekly shopping trips of young families using a multi‐perspective approach that considers psychological personality traits, situational influences, and socio‐demographic factors to explain food purchases. Over a period of 4 weeks, the data of 60 shoppers and their families as well as 217 purchases were recorded using questionnaires and receipts. Analysis showed that personality traits and socio‐demographic data are good predictors of food purchases. The study provides insights into the complexity of shopping behavior, shows the need for multi‐perspective approaches, and enables the derivation of strategies to optimize healthy shopping behavior for young families.
Which ecological factors influence the level of intraspecific diversity within post‐glacial fishes? A case study using Coregonus and Salvelinus
Authors: Blain Stephanie A. , Adams Colin E. , Amundsen Per‐Arne , Knudsen Rune , Chavarie Louise
Published: November 2024

While it is likely that ecological context is important, the factors that facilitate and maintain variable levels of intraspecific diversity in Salmonidae fishes across environments remain unclear.

Using a meta‐analysis of sympatric ecotype assemblages from two salmonid genera—Salvelinus and Coregonus—we evaluated the importance of ecological factors determining the number of sympatric ecotypes (i.e. 2–7) and the level of trait divergence between them.

We found that ecotype diversity increased with lake depth and surface area in both Coregonus and Salvelinus. Further, diversity in Coregonus increased with latitude, while the number of ecotypes in Salvelinus assemblages was linked to climatic seasonality.

In comparing the two genera, we found elevated divergence in traits related to ontogeny (i.e. age and body shape) in Salvelinus and gill raker count in Coregonus. Trait divergence in life history traits (i.e. age and body length) in Salvelinus increased with seasonality, whereas contrasting relationships of latitude to body length and gill rakers were found in Coregonus. We also found similar levels of divergence in trait variance in the two genera, suggesting that among‐ecotype differences in phenotypic variability are not more common in one genus than the other.

Overall, ecosystem characteristics, including lake location, climate and morphometry, are clearly important for where these genera have diversified, but the variables that are most closely associated with intraspecific diversity differ between the two genera studied and depend on whether diversity is quantified using number of ecotypes or trait divergence.
How institutionalized feedback works: Online citizen complaints and local government responsiveness in China
Authors: Wang Howard H. , Cheng Edmund W. , Chen Xi , Liang Hai
Published: November 2024

The prevailing view that authoritarian regimes primarily respond to threats of instability is challenged by our research, which posits that such regimes also take citizen complaints seriously, even when they do not pose a direct threat. Based on 238,835 citizen claims from China's largest national online petition platform from 2020 to 2021 and 793,119 citizen claims from Wuhan's local petition website, this study reveals that online complaints result in greater governmental responsiveness, compared to non‐complaints. This institutionalized feedback mechanism is driven by a mix of factors: the upper‐level officials' expectation for negative feedback, combined with bureaucrats' efforts to preserve themselves and avoid punitive consequences. Our findings thus enhance the understanding of what drives authoritarian responsiveness and signal a caution that an overreliance on managing complaints may deepen a stability‐maintenance mechanism, potentially impeding substantial reform.
The fly brain lands in Tokyo: A report on the 3rd Asia Pacific Drosophila Neurobiology Conference
Authors: Das Gaurav , Malak Olfat A. , Sharma Khushboo , Alia Abdalla G. , Gopalakrishnan Swetha , Menon Reshma V. , Yamanouchi Hayato M. , Nose Akinao , Kazama Hokto , Moore Adrian W. , Suzuki Takashi
Published: November 2024

The third Asia Pacific Drosophila Neurobiology Conference (APDNC3) was held in the Wako Campus of RIKEN in Tokyo, Japan, from February 27th to March 1st, 2024. While APDNC2 was held in Taiwan in 2019, the global coronavirus pandemic enforced a long hiatus. Hence, APDNC3 was a much‐anticipated meeting that attracted ~218 scientists from 18 different countries and regions, 154 from outside Japan. The meeting was divided into 13 scientific, 2 poster, and 3 career development sessions. Two plenary talks were delivered by Professor Daisuke Yamamoto, from NICT and Professor Claude Desplan from NYU. Thirty‐seven other speakers were invited to give lectures. Eighty‐six poster presenters were selected from submitted abstracts. Talks and posters described how neuronal circuits underlying specific behaviors were identified and how they developed. The presented work also demonstrated circuit‐specific cellular and molecular mechanisms in health and disease. It was clear that technological advances, like molecular genetic tools for identifying, manipulating, and imaging individual neurons and the great granularity of the fly brain connectome, were significantly augmenting research. Overall, the meeting highlighted the remarkable biological insights that fly neurobiologists continue to provide.
Education of Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists Working With Head and Neck Cancer Patients in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Departments in the United Kingdom—A Quantitative Study
Authors: Harding Jocelyn , Eaton Kenneth
Published: November 2024

Aim

To investigate Dental Hygienists' (DHs) and Dental Therapists' (DTs) current undergraduate and postgraduate education with regard to the treatment of head and neck cancer (HANC) in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery (OMFS) departments in the United Kingdom.

Methods

A purposive sample of DHs and DTs, who were employed, or had been previously employed, in OMFS departments in the United Kingdom were asked to complete an online questionnaire about their education in the care and management of patients with HANC. The questionnaire was sent to members of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), and the British Association of Dental Therapy (BADT) and was also posted via online forums.

Results

The questionnaire received 55 responses (response rate 83%): 54 female respondents and 1 male. Thirty‐one (56%) respondents had not undertaken any HANC training. However, on starting work in an OMFS department, nine (16%) respondents reported being provided with HANC training.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the UK review and standardise the provision of HANC training in the DH and DT educational curricula. Furthermore, it is recommended that the DH and DT curricula, at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, should include psychology training.
Volitional Trait Change in Selection: It's About Time, but Also Degree and Perspective
Authors: Perossa Andrew , Connelly Brian S.
Published: November 2024

Volitional trait change—the idea that people can willfully change their personality—marks an important advancement for personality science beyond historic views of traits as relatively immutable. We applaud Dupré and Wille's (2024) extension and application of how volitional trait change could impact personnel selection. In this response, we aim to contribute to this discussion by focusing on three critical considerations for the applicability of PDGs to personnel selection—time (how quickly traits can change), degree (how much traits can change), and perspective (who perceives trait change). We concur that personality development has untapped potential in personnel selection and offer suggestions and caveats for how organizations might best realize it. We are excited about a new frontier in extending personality development to organizational settings and are optimistic that doing so would appreciably benefit employees, organizations, and the selection literature.
Inno4Vac Workshop Report Part 1: Controlled Human Influenza Virus Infection Model (CHIVIM) Strain Selection and Immune Assays for CHIVIM Studies, November 2021, MHRA, UK
Authors: Waldock Joanna , Cox Rebecca J. , Chiu Christopher , Subbarao Kanta , Wildfire Adrian , Barclay Wendy , van Kasteren Puck B. , McCauley John , Russell Colin A. , Smith Derek , Thwaites Ryan S. , Tregoning John S. , Engelhardt Othmar G.
Published: November 2024

Controlled human infection models (CHIMs) are a critical tool for the understanding of infectious disease progression, characterising immune responses to infection and rapid assessment of vaccines or drug treatments. There is increasing interest in using CHIMs for vaccine development and an obvious need for widely available and fit‐for‐purpose challenge agents. Inno4Vac is a large European consortium working towards accelerating and de‐risking the development of new vaccines, including the development of CHIMs for influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and Clostridioides difficile. This report (in two parts) summarises a workshop held at the MHRA in 2021, focused on how to select CHIM candidate strains of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) based on desirable virus characteristics and which immune assays would provide relevant information for assessing pre‐existing and post‐infection immune responses and defining correlates of protection. This manuscript (Part 1) summarises presentations and discussions centred around influenza CHIMs and immune assays (a second manuscript summarises RSV CHIM and immune assays: Inno4Vac workshop report Part 2: RSV CHIM strain selection and immune assays for RSV CHIM studies, November 2021, MHRA, UK).
Trends in COVID‐19–Attributable Hospitalizations Among Adults With Laboratory‐Confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2—COVID‐NET, June 2020 to September 2023
Authors: Taylor Christopher A. , Whitaker Michael , Patton Monica E. , Melgar Michael , Kirley Pam Daily , Kawasaki Breanna , Yousey‐Hindes Kimberly , Openo Kyle P. , Ryan Patricia A. , Kim Sue , Como‐Sabetti Kathryn , Solhtalab Dominic , Barney Grant , Tesini Brenda L. , Moran Nancy E. , Sutton Melissa , Talbot H. Keipp , Olsen Kristen , Havers Fiona P.
Published: November 2024

Background

Screening for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among hospital admissions made interpretation of COVID‐19 hospitalization data challenging as SARS‐CoV‐2–positive persons with mild or asymptomatic infection may be incorrectly identified as COVID‐19–associated hospitalizations. The study objective is to estimate the proportion of hospitalizations likely attributable to COVID‐19 among SARS‐CoV‐2–positive hospitalized patients.

Methods

A sample of laboratory‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2–positive hospitalizations from the COVID‐19–Associated Hospitalization Surveillance Network (COVID‐NET) from June 2020 to September 2023 was analyzed, with a focus on July 2022 to September 2023. Likely COVID‐19–attributable hospitalizations were defined as hospitalizations among SARS‐CoV‐2–positive non‐pregnant adults ages ≥ 18 years with COVID‐19–related presenting complaint, treatment, or discharge diagnosis.

Results

Among 44,816 sampled hospitalizations, 90% met the definition of likely COVID‐19–attributable. Among the 9866 admissions occurring during July 2022 to September 2023, 86% were likely COVID‐19–attributable; 87% had a COVID‐19–related presenting complaint, 64% received steroids or COVID‐19–related treatment, 47% had respiratory‐ and 10% had coagulopathy‐related discharge diagnoses, and 39% had COVID‐19 as the principal discharge diagnosis code. More than 70% met ≥ 2 criteria. Compared with likely COVID‐19–attributable hospitalizations, SARS‐CoV‐2–positive patients who did not meet the case definition were more likely to be ages 18–49 years (27% vs. 13%), have no underlying medical conditions (14% vs. 4%), or be asymptomatic for COVID‐19 upon admission (46% vs. 10%) (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Most hospitalizations among SARS‐CoV‐2–positive adults in a recent period were likely attributable to COVID‐19. COVID‐19–attributable hospitalizations are less common among younger SARS‐CoV‐2–positive hospitalized adults but still account for nearly three quarters of all admissions among SARS‐CoV‐2–positive adults in this age group.
Severe Neurological Complications With Influenza in Vietnamese Children
Authors: Nguyen Sy Duc , Ngo Thi Huyen Trang , Nguyen Thi Viet Ha , Do Thien Hai
Published: November 2024

Background

Influenza is a common contagious respiratory virus that primarily causes respiratory tract infections. Neurological complications associated with influenza have also been reported, mainly in pediatric populations, and may be fatal.

Methods

A descriptive study evaluated pediatric patients who were diagnosed with severe influenza‐associated neurological complications at the Tropical Pediatrics Center—Vietnam National Children's Hospital from October 2022 to February 2024.

Results

In this study involving 20 patients, 80% of children were under 5 years old; 70% of patients had a history of good health. All patients had not received an influenza vaccination within 12 months. The median time from onset to neurological symptoms was 1 day. The most common neurological complication was encephalitis (16/20 patients) with symptoms included altered consciousness and seizures. Most patients had elevated levels of ALT (60%), AST (90%), LDH (94%), and ferritin (69%) in serum. The imaging of brain damage on MRI and CT scans varied in patterns and locations. There was no difference in the timing of methylprednisolone treatment within and after 48 h. The mortality rate was 20%, with 45% of patients experiencing severe sequelae.

Conclusions

IANCs are severe with damage to both white matter and central gray matter and can occur in healthy children, emphasizing the importance of vaccination to reduce the risk.
Respiratory Diagnoses Year‐Round: Unraveling the Multifaceted Pediatric Infection Cycles
Authors: Walkowiak Marcin Piotr , Walkowiak Jarosław , Walkowiak Dariusz
Published: November 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to analyze the annual cycle of pediatric medically attended respiratory illnesses.

Study Design

Data on 141 million pediatric respiratory visits from the years 2010–2019 were obtained from the Polish National Healthcare Fund. To identify underlying patterns and trends within the aggregated data, techniques like seasonal‐trend decomposition using LOESS (STL) and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied.

Results

A strongly recurring pattern was observed. Following the annual minimum in late summer, there was a sudden surge in upper respiratory infections in early September. Subsequently, overall visits declined gradually, while the share of lower respiratory infections increased, particularly during the influenza peaks from January to March. Afterwards, visits declined steadily, with an additional peak of tonsillopharyngitis noted in midsummer. Dimensionality reduction of diagnoses implied the existence of two major groups of co‐occurring diagnoses, the proportions of which change over the year: one smaller but more severe, peaking during the influenza season, and the second dominating with lower severity. Age differences in diagnoses were observed, with babies showing upper respiratory infections likely diagnosed with the common cold rather than a more specific upper respiratory infection.

Conclusion

While enhancing surveillance strategies is indeed a desirable long‐term goal, it is worth noting that despite the variability observed in the onset of the influenza season, the infection cycles generally follow a relatively fixed pattern. This consistency provides a foundation for effective planning and underscores the potential for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of seasonal outbreaks.
Real‐World Assessment of Economic and Clinical Outcomes in Thai Patients With Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection Across Age Groups: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Khaing Win , Tan Chia Jie , Patikorn Chanthawat , Techasaensiri Chonnamet , Pattanaprateep Oraluck , Dhippayom Teerapon , Bruminhent Jackrapong , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn
Published: November 2024

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is an important cause of acute lower respiratory infections worldwide, including Thailand. This study aimed to assess clinical and economic burdens of RSV infections across different age groups in Thailand.

Method

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from a tertiary care hospital from 2014 to 2021. Patients who tested at least one positive RSV were included and stratified into five age groups (< 2, 2–5, 5–18, 18–65, and > 65 years). Healthcare resource utilization, direct medical costs, and clinical outcomes were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Generalized linear models with gamma distributions and log link were used to model cost outcomes. Costs were reported in 2021 US dollars (USD), with 1 USD = 31.98 Thai Baht.

Results

A total of 2122 RSV‐positive patients were identified, half of which (1097) were hospitalized. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) total hospitalization costs ranged from USD780 (IQR: USD488–USD1185) in those < 2 years to USD2231 (IQR: USD1250–USD4989) in those aged 65+ years. Case fatality rates among hospitalized patients also varied from 2.5% to 28.4% depending on age. Increased age, presence of comorbidities, and need for critical care were associated with higher hospitalization costs.

Conclusion

Among RSV‐positive patients, younger children experienced the greatest burden, but poorer outcomes were observed in older adults. Higher costs were associated with older age, comorbidities and critical care needs. Understanding RSV economic burdens is crucial for assessing the cost‐effectiveness and public health value of vaccination programs that prioritize at‐risk groups to mitigate the public health impact.
Clinician contributions to central nervous system‐active polypharmacy among older adults with dementia in the United States
Authors: Vordenberg Sarah E. , Davis Rachel C. , Strominger Julie , Marcus Steven C. , Kim Hyungjin Myra , Blow Frederic C. , Wallner Lauren P. , Caverly Tanner , Krein Sarah , Maust Donovan T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Exposure to central nervous system (CNS)‐active polypharmacy—overlapping exposure to three or more CNS‐active medications—is potentially harmful yet common among persons living with dementia (PLWD). The extent to which these medications are prescribed to community‐dwelling PLWD by individual clinicians versus distributed across multiple prescribers is unclear.

Methods

We identified community‐dwelling Medicare beneficiaries with a dementia diagnosis and Medicare Parts A, B, and D coverage for at least one month in 2019. Using fill date and days' supply for prescriptions filled between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019, we identified beneficiaries exposed to CNS‐active polypharmacy (i.e., >30 days of overlapping exposure to three or more antidepressant, antipsychotic, antiseizure, benzodiazepine, opioid, nonbenzodiazepine benzodiazepine receptor agonists, or skeletal muscle relaxant medications). We examined the number and type of clinicians who contributed to polypharmacy person‐days among PLWD.

Results

The cohort included 955,074 PLWD who were primarily female (64.0%), were White (78.5%), and had a mean age of 83.4 years (standard deviation 8.0). Notably, 14.3% were exposed to CNS‐active polypharmacy. At the person level, 24.6% of PLWD experienced polypharmacy prescribed by a single clinician. Considering total days of exposure, 45.3% of polypharmacy person‐days were prescribed by a single clinician. Primary care physicians prescribed 63.0% of polypharmacy person‐days and accounted for the plurality of days for all seven medication classes, followed by psychiatrists for antipsychotics and benzodiazepines and primary care advanced practice providers (APPs) for antidepressants and antiseizure medications.

Conclusion

In this cross‐sectional analysis of Medicare claims data, primary care clinicians (both physicians and APPs) prescribed the majority of medications that contributed to CNS‐active polypharmacy for PLWD. Future research is needed to identify strategies to support primary care clinicians in appropriate prescribing of CNS‐active medications to PLWD.