bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of residential versus outpatient therapy for smoking cessation: The START randomized clinical trial
Authors: Dickreuter Jonas Levin , Schmoor Claudia , Jähne Andreas , Bengel Jürgen , Pschichholz Barbara , Lorz Christina , Schulz Christina , Vozelj Jana , Leifert Jens Albert
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Tobacco smoking represents a major cause for preventable death and morbidity. Results from non‐randomized studies suggest that smoking cessation therapy in a residential setting might be a new viable way to facilitate smoking abstinence. We aimed to test the effects of residential multicomponent group therapy for smoking cessation compared with outpatient group therapy.

Design

Prospective parallel‐group open‐label randomized superiority trial, with assessments at baseline, 6 and 12 months.

Setting

Recruitment throughout Germany via media advertisements.

Participants

Adult smokers (≥10 cigarettes/day) randomly assigned to residential (n = 157) or outpatient (n = 158) therapy. 51.8% female; mean age 53.2 years; mean years of smoking 34.4.

Intervention and Comparator

Residential 9‐day smoking cessation group therapy comprising six daily therapy sessions and supportive interventions for cessation and daily structure embedded in the routines of a somatic rehabilitation center, compared with weekly outpatient smoking cessation group therapy (3–7 weeks) provided in routine care courses close to the participants' places of residence, both including at least 9 h of behavioral therapy.

Measurements

Co‐primary outcomes were self‐reported continuous 6‐ and 12‐month abstinence (hierarchically ordered). Primary analyses were conducted in the therapy‐uptake population including participants who started therapy with sensitivity analyses in the intention‐to‐treat population of all randomized participants.

Findings

Intervention uptake rates were 87.3% (n = 137) in the residential and 60.1% (n = 95) in the outpatient group. In the therapy‐uptake population, abstinence rates were 46.7% in the residential versus 26.3% in the outpatient group at 6 months (odds ratio [OR] = 2.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.39–4.33, P = 0.0019) and 39.4% versus 24.2% at 12 months (OR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.14–3.64, P = 0.017). Biochemically validated abstinence rates at 12 months were 33.1% in the residential versus 17.4% in the outpatient group (OR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.22–4.51, P = 0.011). In the intention‐to‐treat population, self‐reported and biochemically validated abstinence rates at 12 months were 34.4% in the residential versus 14.6% in the outpatient group (OR = 3.08, 95% CI = 1.77–5.34, P < 0.0001) and 28.6% versus 10.3% (OR = 3.48, 95% CI = 1.85–6.52, P = 0.0001), respectively.

Conclusions

Residential therapy exclusively for smoking cessation is feasible and effective and could be a beneficial new treatment for smokers.
Tree size partially mediates the influence of climate on fruit and seed production in Ricinodendron heudelotii (Baill.) Heckel
Authors: Hounsou‐Dindin Guillaume , Salako Kolawolé Valère , Gandji Kisito , Adomou Aristide Cossi , Assogbadjo Achille , Glèlè Kakaï Romain
Published: July 2024

Understanding environmental drivers of fruit and seed production in wild edible fruit species is essential for their valorisation. Ricinodendron heudelotii is an oilseed plant whose kernels are particularly treasured in cosmetic and medical industries. This study assessed fruits and seeds production patterns of R. heudelotii. Data were collected for three consecutive years on 30 trees in the phytodistricts of Plateau, Pobè and South Borgou where it naturally occurs. Tree dbh, total height, crown diameter, number of fruits and seed mass were measured. Climatic data were obtained from NASA Power Database. Data were analysed using linear (seed mass) and generalised linear (number of fruits) mixed models and structural equation modelling. Fruit and seed production were significantly higher in the South‐Borgou phytodistrict (1433 ± 1144 fruits, 4.26 ± 3.39 kg of Dry matter per tree) and Plateau phytodistrict (1.66 ± 0.35 g DM/seed). Tree dbh further significantly mediated the effect of minimum temperature, and relative humidity on seed mass. Tree dbh, irradiance and dry season rainfall were identified as the best‐predictors of seed mass production (kg DM). These results improved current knowledge of the fruit and seed production of R. heudelotii and are of significant importance for the exploitation of the species.
Recognition of psychological comorbidity and psychotherapeutic treatment status of ventricular assist device patients
Authors: Gronewold Nadine , Mayer Gwendolyn , Müller Yvonne , Levinson Rebecca T. , Bruns Bastian , Meyer Anna L. , Rivinius Rasmus , Frey Norbert , Kreusser Michael M. , Schultz Jobst‐Hendrik
Published: July 2024

Background

Due to its high impact on quality of life and mental health, close monitoring and often psychotherapy is recommended for patients with a ventricular assist device (VAD). This study investigates the psychological comorbidity and the corresponding psychotherapeutic treatment situation of VAD patients. Special attention is also given to the professional perspective VAD team (assistant and senior cardiologists and specialized nurses).

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional observational study. Data from 50 VAD patients (mean age = 53.52, standard deviation = 13.82 years, 84.0% male) and their VAD team were analyzed. The presence of a psychological disorder was evaluated by structured clinical interviews for DSM‐IV (SCID‐I‐Interviews). Patients answered a questionnaire regarding their current psychotherapeutic treatment status and their attitude towards psychotherapy. The VAD team answered a questionnaire about the patients' needs for psychotherapy and indicated whether they addressed this topic with the patient. Data were analyzed descriptively, by analysis of variance and t‐test.

Results

A total of 58% of VAD patients suffered from at least one significant psychological disorder, 79.3% of those were not in psychotherapy. The VAD team could not identify the patients who suffered from a psychological disorder (F = 1.90; p = 0.18). They perceived more need for psychotherapy than they addressed with their patients (T = 3.39; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

While there is a high psychological morbidity among VAD patients, only few receive psychotherapy. Psychological comorbidity is not easily detected by the VAD team. Standardized psychosocial care could be implemented by regular psychological assessments and further information of patients and their VAD teams.
Multicentre study and systematic review: Allopurinol exposure during pregnancy
Authors: Crouwel Femke , Simsek Melek , de Boer Marjon A. , van Asseldonk Dirk P. , Bhalla Abha , Weusthuis Angelique L. M. , Gilissen Lennard P. L. , Verburg Robert J. , Mares Wout G. N. , Jharap Bindia , Kuijvenhoven Johan P. , Oldenburg Bas , Buiter Hans J. C. , Julsgaard Mette , de Boer Nanne K.
Published: July 2024

Background

Data about the safety of allopurinol in pregnant women are sparsely reported.

Aims

To investigate the risk of adverse pregnancy outcome and congenital abnormalities after in utero exposure to allopurinol in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pregnancies and in general.

Methods

We collected safety data of patients with IBD who were treated with allopurinol during pregnancy between January 2013 and March 2022. Additionally, we performed a systematic review about the teratogenic potential of allopurinol.

Results

We collected data from 42 allopurinol‐exposed pregnancies, including one twin pregnancy; in all women, allopurinol was combined with a thiopurine. Six pregnancies (14.3%) resulted in miscarriage and one in stillbirth at 32 weeks. A congenital anomaly was observed in one newborn (coarctation of the aorta discovered postpartum). Three pregnancies, including the twin pregnancy, ended in moderate preterm delivery and one in very preterm delivery. Five neonates (15.2%) were small for gestational age. From our literature search, we identified an additional 102 allopurinol‐exposed pregnancies resulting in 129 live births, including 36 infants from our cohort. Ten infants (7.8%) were born with a congenital anomaly. Two (1.6%) had a comparable pattern of multiple anomalies. The systematic review sub‐analysis including only infants born to mothers with IBD (n = 76) revealed that 2.6% of infants had congenital anomalies after in utero exposure to a low dose of allopurinol.

Conclusions

Overall, the teratogenicity of allopurinol remains inconclusive. Children conceived by mothers treated for IBD with allopurinol/thiopurine co‐therapy do not seem to have an increased risk of congenital anomalies.
Inflammation‐mediated drug interactions of olokizumab and cytochrome P450 activities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Agachi Svetlana , Beloukhova Marina , Mould Diane , Lemak Maria , Grishin Sergey , Samsonov Mikhail
Published: July 2024

Aims

In patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), interleukin (IL)‐6 affects the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Treatment with anti‐IL‐6 therapy can reverse the IL‐6‐mediated downregulation of CYP enzymes, resulting in changes in plasma levels of CYP substrates. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the IL‐6 inhibitor olokizumab on the pharmacokinetics of CYP probe substrates in subjects with active RA.

Methods

Seventeen patients with active RA were orally administered a phenotyping cocktail of midazolam (CYP3A4 substrate), omeprazole (CYP2C19 substrate), warfarin (CYP2C9 substrate) and caffeine (CYP1A2 substrate) alone and 2 weeks after a single subcutaneous injection of 128 mg olokizumab. The pharmacokinetic parameters of each substrate were calculated using noncompartmental analysis.

Results

Sixteen of 17 enrolled patients received the complete doses of the cocktail drugs and olokizumab and were eligible for the pharmacokinetic evaluations. After single‐dose administration of olokizumab, the exposure of midazolam and omeprazole decreased by 30‐33% and 26‐32%, respectively, compared to when the substrates were administered along via cocktail. In the presence of olokizumab, caffeine exposure increased by 19‐23% compared to caffeine administration alone. There were no significant changes in S‐warfarin exposure.

Conclusion

In patients with active RA, olokizumab potentially reverses the IL‐6‐mediated suppression of CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. According to FDA guidance, olokizumab is considered a weak inducer of CYP3A4 and CYP2C19.
Impact of homologous recombination repair/BReast CAncer (BRCA) gene alterations on survival in a real‐world setting of metastatic prostate cancer
Authors: Wenzel Mike , Hoeh Benedikt , Koll Florestan , Humke Clara , Fassl Anne , Reis Henning , Wild Peter , Steuber Thomas , Graefen Markus , Tilki Derya , Traumann Miriam , Banek Severine , Chun Felix K.H. , Mandel Philipp
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate alterations of homologous recombination repair (HRR) and especially BReast CAncer 1/2 (BRCA1/2) gene on overall survival (OS). Moreover, to explore the effect of inhibition of poly(ADP‐ribose)‐polymerase (PARPi) as systemic therapy for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).

Patients and methods

Of all HRR‐screened patients with metastatic prostate cancer, baseline characteristics were sampled. Kaplan–Meier estimates and multivariable Cox regression models predicted the effect of HRR/BRCA1/2 alterations on OS.

Results

Of 196 eligible patients, 61 (31%) harboured any HRR and 40 (20%) BRCA1/2 alterations. Of HRR alterations, 40 (66%) vs six (10%) vs five (8.2%) vs four (6.6%) vs two (3.3%) vs four (6.6%) were BRCA1/2 vs Ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated kinase (ATM) vs checkpoint kinase 2 (CHEK2) vs cyclin‐dependent kinase 12 (CDK12) vs Fanconi anaemia complementation Group A (FANCA) vs positive for other mutations. Of these, 30% received a PARPi. OS differed significantly between HRR‐positive vs ‐negative patients. Specifically in hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer, the median OS was 63 (HRR positive) vs 57 (BRCA1/2 positive) vs 113 months (HRR negative) (P ≤ 0.01). In mCRPC, OS was 42 (HRR positive) vs 41 (BRCA1/2 positive) vs 70 months (HRR negative) (P ≤ 0.01). HRR and BRCA1/2 alterations were associated with worse OS after multivariable adjustment. Finally, patients with mCRPC with BRCA1/2 mutation treated without PARPi harboured worse OS than patients with BRCA1/2 mutation and PARPi therapy (median OS: 33 vs 48 months, P < 0.03).

Conclusion

Incidence of HRR alteration in a clinical real‐world setting is high when using blood‐ and tissue‐based tests. Patients with HRR/BRCA alterations have worse outcomes resulting in significant OS differences between HRR/BRCA‐positive patients with mCRPC with and without PARPi usage vs HRR/BRCA‐negative patients.
Visualizing alpha‐synuclein and iron deposition in M83 mouse model of Parkinson's disease in vivo
Authors: Straumann Nadja , Combes Benjamin F. , Dean Ben Xose Luis , Sternke‐Hoffmann Rebecca , Gerez Juan A. , Dias Ines , Chen Zhenyue , Watts Benjamin , Rostami Iman , Shi Kuangyu , Rominger Axel , Baumann Christian R. , Luo Jinghui , Noain Daniela , Nitsch Roger M. , Okamura Nobuyuki , Razansky Daniel , Ni Ruiqing
Published: July 2024

Abnormal alpha‐synuclein (αSyn) and iron accumulation in the brain play an important role in Parkinson's disease (PD). Herein, we aim to visualize αSyn inclusions and iron deposition in the brains of M83 (A53T) mouse models of PD in vivo. The fluorescent pyrimidoindole derivative THK‐565 probe was characterized by means of recombinant fibrils and brains from 10‐ to 11‐month‐old M83 mice. Concurrent wide‐field fluorescence and volumetric multispectral optoacoustic tomography (vMSOT) imaging were subsequently performed in vivo. Structural and susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 9.4 T as well as scanning transmission x‐ray microscopy (STXM) were performed to characterize the iron deposits in the perfused brains. Immunofluorescence and Prussian blue staining were further performed on brain slices to validate the detection of αSyn inclusions and iron deposition. THK‐565 showed increased fluorescence upon binding to recombinant αSyn fibrils and αSyn inclusions in post‐mortem brain slices from patients with PD and M83 mice. Administration of THK‐565 in M83 mice showed higher cerebral retention at 20 and 40 min post‐intravenous injection by wide‐field fluorescence compared to nontransgenic littermate mice, in congruence with the vMSOT findings. SWI/phase images and Prussian blue indicated the accumulation of iron deposits in the brains of M83 mice, presumably in the Fe3+ form, as evinced by the STXM results. In conclusion, we demonstrated in vivo mapping of αSyn by means of noninvasive epifluorescence and vMSOT imaging and validated the results by targeting the THK‐565 label and SWI/STXM identification of iron deposits in M83 mouse brains ex vivo.
Evolution of parasites in the Anthropocene: new pressures, new adaptive directions
Authors: Poulin Robert , Salloum Priscila M. , Bennett Jerusha
Published: July 2024

The Anthropocene is seeing the human footprint rapidly spreading to all of Earth's ecosystems. The fast‐changing biotic and abiotic conditions experienced by all organisms are exerting new and strong selective pressures, and there is a growing list of examples of human‐induced evolution in response to anthropogenic impacts. No organism is exempt from these novel selective pressures. Here, we synthesise current knowledge on human‐induced evolution in eukaryotic parasites of animals, and present a multidisciplinary framework for its study and monitoring. Parasites generally have short generation times and huge fecundity, features that predispose them for rapid evolution. We begin by reviewing evidence that parasites often have substantial standing genetic variation, and examples of their rapid evolution both under conditions of livestock production and in serial passage experiments. We then present a two‐step conceptual overview of the causal chain linking anthropogenic impacts to parasite evolution. First, we review the major anthropogenic factors impacting parasites, and identify the selective pressures they exert on parasites through increased mortality of either infective stages or adult parasites, or through changes in host density, quality or immunity. Second, we discuss what new phenotypic traits are likely to be favoured by the new selective pressures resulting from altered parasite mortality or host changes; we focus mostly on parasite virulence and basic life‐history traits, as these most directly influence the transmission success of parasites and the pathology they induce. To illustrate the kinds of evolutionary changes in parasites anticipated in the Anthropocene, we present a few scenarios, either already documented or hypothetical but plausible, involving parasite taxa in livestock, aquaculture and natural systems. Finally, we offer several approaches for investigations and real‐time monitoring of rapid, human‐induced evolution in parasites, ranging from controlled experiments to the use of state‐of‐the‐art genomic tools. The implications of fast‐evolving parasites in the Anthropocene for disease emergence and the dynamics of infections in domestic animals and wildlife are concerning. Broader recognition that it is not only the conditions for parasite transmission that are changing, but the parasites themselves, is needed to meet better the challenges ahead.
Bilateralism vs. multilateralism: Role of political economy for the prospect of multilateral free trade
Authors: Conglin Chi Eric , Murat Yildiz Halis
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we use a unified framework of competing exporters and competing importers models where political biases in both exporting and import‐competing sectors influence governments' decisions in trade agreement formation and external tariff setting. Using an endogenous trade agreement formation model, we show that the relative strength of political biases in import‐competing and exporting sectors are pivotal in determining the free‐riding incentives, exclusion incentives and whether the ability to form free trade areas acts as building or stumbling blocks towards multilateral free trade. When the political biases toward exporting and import‐competing sectors are sufficiently weak, the ability to form free trade agreements acts as strong building blocks toward free trade. However, when the political bias towards exporting sectors is at the intermediate range and political bias towards import‐competing sectors is sufficiently strong, the ability to form free trade agreements acts as strong stumbling blocks.
Adaptive spatiotemporal management to reduce shark bycatch in tuna fisheries
Authors: Crespo Guillermo Ortuño , Griffiths Shane , Murua Hilario , Österblom Henrik , Lopez Jon
Published: July 2024

Purse‐seine tropical tuna fishing in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean (EPO) results in the bycatch of several sensitive species groups, including elasmobranchs. Effective ecosystem management balances conservation and resource use and requires considering trade‐offs and synergies. Seasonal and adaptive spatial measures can reduce fisheries impacts on nontarget species while maintaining or increasing target catches. Identifying persistently high‐risk areas in the open ocean, where dynamic environmental conditions drive changes in species’ distributions, is essential for exploring the impact of fisheries closures. We used fisheries observer data collected from 1995 to 2021 to explore the spatiotemporal persistence of areas of high bycatch risk for 2 species of oceanic sharks, silky shark (Carcharhinus falciformis) and oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), and of low tuna catch rates. We analyzed data collected by fisheries scientific observers onboard approximately 200 large purse‐seine vessels operating in the EPO under 10 different flags. Fishing effort, catch, and bycatch data were aggregated spatially and temporally at 1° × 1° cells and monthly, respectively. When areas of high fishing inefficiency were closed the entire study period and effort was reallocated proportionally to reflect historical effort patterns, yearly tuna catch appeared to increase by 1–11%, whereas bycatch of silky and oceanic whitetip sharks decreased by 10–19% and 9%, respectively. Prior to fishing effort redistribution, bycatch reductions accrued to 21–41% and 14% for silky and oceanic whitetip sharks, respectively. Our results are consistent with previous findings and demonstrate the high potential for reducing elasmobranch bycatch in the EPO without compromising catch rates of target tuna species. They also highlight the need to consider new dynamic and adaptive management measures to more efficiently fulfill conservation and sustainability objectives for exploited resources in the EPO.
Impact of CD151 overexpression on prognosis and therapy in non‐small cell lung cancer patients lacking EGFR mutations
Authors: Wong Amanda Huee‐Ping , Nga Min En , Chin Chin Yein , Tai Yee Kit , Wong Hung Chew , Soo Ross , An Omer , Yang Henry , Seet Ju Ee , Lim Yaw Chyn , Tam John Kit Chung , Tran Thai
Published: July 2024

This study investigates CD151, a protein linked to cancer progression, in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients without epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. These patients often have limited treatment options. The study used retrospective analysis to examine 157 adenocarcinoma biopsy specimens and 199 patient cases from The Cancer Genome Atlas, correlating CD151 expression with patient survival. Cellular studies revealed that CD151 interacts with EGFR, influencing epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐induced cell proliferation and the effectiveness of the EGFR inhibitor, erlotinib. A strong association was found between CD151 expression and EGFR mutation status. High CD151 expression in the absence of EGFR mutations is correlated with poorer survival outcomes. Biological assays showed that CD151 colocalizes and associates with EGFR, playing a crucial role in regulating EGF‐induced cell proliferation via the AKT and ERK1/2 pathways. Importantly, CD151 expression was found to influence the anti‐proliferative effects of the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor, erlotinib. High CD151 expression, in the absence of EGFR mutations, was associated with poorer survival outcomes. It could serve as a potential prognostic marker and influence cellular responses to EGFR‐targeted treatments. This study highlights CD151 as a potential novel target for therapeutic intervention in NSCLC, especially in populations lacking EGFR mutations.
More dads at home, more girls in maths‐intensive studies? Evidence from a parental leave reform
Authors: Mikkelsen Sara , Peter Noemi
Published: July 2024

Evidence suggests that separate spheres gender norms discourage girls from maths. We therefore examine a policy that counteracts such norms among parents, and investigate whether it increases girls' participation in maths‐intensive studies. Specifically, we examine a parental leave reform that reserved one month of leave for fathers, and estimate its effect on children's study choices. We find that the reform increases the probability of doing a maths‐intensive programme in upper secondary education among girls whose father was otherwise reluctant to take leave. There is no effect on boys. We also conduct heterogeneity analyses to investigate whether the results can be explained by human capital transmission or the gender norms mechanism. The results of our analyses suggest that the gender norms mechanism is at play.
The effect of an evidence‐based practice course on students' lifelong learning skills and problem‐solving skills: An educational intervention study
Authors: Gönderen Çakmak Huri Seval , Ayhan Başer Duygu
Published: July 2024

In this study, the aim was to investigate the effect of an evidence‐based practice course on the lifelong learning skills and problem‐solving skills of health science students. A prospective one‐group pre‐test–post‐test design. The universe of the study consisted of 189 students from Cankiri Karatekin University. Student information form, Jefferson lifelong learning skill scale, Problem‐solving inventory (PSI) were used as data collection instruments. The sample of the study consisted of 156 students who completed the 14‐week course and fully completed the pre‐test and post‐test. For data analysis, IBM Corp. Released 2013. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. package program was used. While 84% of the students said that they had never heard of the term EBP before, 91.7% of those who knew the term said they had heard it in their field courses. The lifelong learning skill scale total score change of the students, the PSI total score change of the students after the 26‐h EBP course were statistically significant. EBP is very important for health science students to increase their problem‐solving success and lifelong learning skills, and it should be integrated into the curriculum.
A case of frontal lobe seizures with ‘dancing‐like’ semiology
Authors: Atanasio Giorgia , Germanò Antonio , Granata Francesca , Tomaiuolo Francesco , Labate Angelo
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose

‘Dancing‐like’ semiology is extremely rare and described in few case reports. It is characterized by rhythmic, oscillatory movements of the pelvis and/or limbs during which the subject appears to be dancing. It has been associated with both the frontal and temporal epileptic zone; however, the possible network involved in these fascinating seizures is unclear.

Methods

The case of a 45‐year‐old woman suffering from drug‐resistant focal epilepsy with multi‐day seizures of bizarre semiology is described. A structural and perfusion magnetic resonance imaging study (interictal and peri‐ictal) and video‐electroencephalograms were carried out, and several home videos were employed. A vagal stimulator was implanted.

Results

Home videos documented the ‘dancing’ semiology of seizures better than video‐ electroencephalogram recordings. The imaging study revealed a focal frontal polymicrogyria with a peri‐ictal cerebral blood flow increase at the perisylvian lesion foci. The combination of add‐on cenobamate and vagal nerve stimulation resulted in complete seizure freedom.

Conclusion

The unusual and complex dancing‐like semiology observed during our patient's seizures adds to the repertoire of fascinating complex motor manifestations of frontal lobe epilepsy.
Fathers' experiences with supportive parenting interventions: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Chee Cornelia , Sambhi Sharan Kaur , Chong Shang Chee , Choolani Mahesh
Published: July 2024

Despite proven efficacy, fatherhood interventions face challenges in attracting and retaining participants. This qualitative systematic review aims to inform the future design of fatherhood interventions by consolidating and synthesizing the evidence around fathers' experiences with interventions aimed at enhancing their involvement and relationships with their children. Following PRISMA guidelines, we analyzed 10 studies from a search of six electronic databases. Our analysis coalesced into three pivotal themes: (a) creating a sense of belonging: facilitating participation; (b) transformative takeaways; and (c) challenges of negotiating expectations of masculinity. Our findings indicate that group‐based, culturally sensitive programs are advantageous but also reveal that fathers grapple with reconciling evolving fatherhood roles with societally entrenched expectations of masculinity. This review offers actionable insights for the future development, evaluation, and implementation of fatherhood interventions, particularly those utilizing qualitative research methodologies.
6‐Phosphogluconolactonase is critical for the efficient functioning of the pentose phosphate pathway
Authors: Phégnon Léa , Pérochon Julien , Uttenweiler‐Joseph Sandrine , Cahoreau Edern , Millard Pierre , Létisse Fabien
Published: July 2024

The metabolic networks of microorganisms are remarkably robust to genetic and environmental perturbations. This robustness stems from redundancies such as gene duplications, isoenzymes, alternative metabolic pathways, and also from non‐enzymatic reactions. In the oxidative branch of the pentose phosphate pathway (oxPPP), 6‐phosphogluconolactone hydrolysis into 6‐phosphogluconate is catalysed by 6‐phosphogluconolactonase (Pgl) but in the absence of the latter, the oxPPP flux is thought to be maintained by spontaneous hydrolysis. However, in Δpgl Escherichia coli, an extracellular pathway can also contribute to pentose phosphate synthesis. This raises question as to whether the intracellular non‐enzymatic reaction can compensate for the absence of 6‐phosphogluconolactonase and, ultimately, on the role of 6‐phosphogluconolactonase in central metabolism. Our results validate that the bypass pathway is active in the absence of Pgl, specifically involving the extracellular spontaneous hydrolysis of gluconolactones to gluconate. Under these conditions, metabolic flux analysis reveals that this bypass pathway accounts for the entire flux into the oxPPP. This alternative metabolic route—partially extracellular—sustains the flux through the oxPPP necessary for cell growth, albeit at a reduced rate in the absence of Pgl. Importantly, these findings imply that intracellular non‐enzymatic hydrolysis of 6‐phosphogluconolactone does not compensate for the absence of Pgl. This underscores the crucial role of Pgl in ensuring the efficient functioning of the oxPPP.
The effect of fiber bridging on mode I fatigue delamination propagation—Part II: Cohesive zone model
Authors: Ben Gur Hila , Banks‐Sills Leslie
Published: July 2024

This is Part II of a series of two papers in which the effect of fiber bridging on fatigue delamination propagation is assessed. In Part I, unidirectional double cantilever beam specimens composed of the carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer prepreg AS4/8552 were tested by means of fatigue cycling. Fiber bridging in beam specimens composed of unidirectional plies causes the apparent fatigue delamination curves to exhibit growth which is slower than that for the case when fiber bridging does not occur. Generally, fiber bridging does not occur in laminate structures. In Part II of this study, a cohesive zone model (CZM) is developed and used to carry out finite element analyses to simulate the experiments. The CZM is employed to quantify and eliminate the contribution of fiber bridging to the fatigue delamination growth curves. In this way, more realistic results are obtained. These results are compared to an upper bound curve determined in Part I.
Characterization of compressive fatigue behavior and acoustic emission analysis of Ti6Al4V cellular lattice materials fabricated by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Raghavendra Sunil , Russo Francesca , De Biasi Raffaele , Rustighi Emiliano , Zappini Gianluca , Berto Filippo , Benedetti Matteo
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the mechanical properties and fatigue performance of Ti6Al4V cellular lattice materials (CLMs) featuring five distinct unit cell types (BCC‐Z, BCC, Octet, Truncated cuboctahedron [TCO], and Trabecular) at a relative density of 25%. Compression tests were conducted to assess static properties, including Young's modulus and yield strength. Subsequently, compression–compression fatigue tests (R = 0.1) were performed to evaluate fatigue behavior. Acoustic emission analysis was employed during static and fatigue tests to explore the potential for failure prediction. Results reveal that BCC‐Z and TCO exhibit slightly higher Young's moduli, surpassing 20 GPa, while BCC, Octet, and Trabecular display moduli ranging from 6 to 12 GPa. Regarding normalized fatigue behavior, BCC‐Z demonstrates superior fatigue resistance, followed by TCO. Notably, the acoustic emission parameters significantly correlate with the unit cell type. Lastly, a strong relationship between the initiation of failure and changes in acoustic emission parameters is observed, establishing a meaningful link between the static and fatigue curves and acoustic emission results.
Long‐term effects of fecal microbiota transplantation on gut microbiota after Helicobacter pylori eradication with bismuth quadruple therapy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhao Jing‐Tao , Zhang Yi , Wang Xing‐Wei , Zou Pei‐Ying , Zhao Zhe , Mei Hao , Liu Yu‐Xiang , Su Na‐Yun , Zhu Yang‐Jie , Wang Bin , Wei Yan‐Ling , Chen Dong‐Feng , Lan Chun‐Hui
Published: July 2024

Background

Eradicating Helicobacter pylori infection by bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) is effective. However, the effect of BQT and subsequent fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) on the gut microbiota is less known.

Materials and Methods

This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary hospital in China from January 2019 to October 2020, with the primary endpoints the effect of BQT on the gut microbiota and the effect of FMT on the gut microbiota after bismuth quadruple therapy eradication therapy. A 14‐day BQT with amoxicillin and clarithromycin was administered to H. pylori‐positive subjects, and after eradication therapy, patients received a one‐time FMT or placebo treatment. We then collected stool samples to assess the effects of 14‐day BQT and FMT on the gut microbiota. 16 s rDNA and metagenomic sequencing were used to analyze the structure and function of intestinal flora. We also used Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) to evaluate gastrointestinal symptom during treatment.

Results

A total of 30 patients were recruited and 15 were assigned to either FMT or placebo groups. After eradication therapy, alpha‐diversity was decreased in both groups. At the phylum level, the abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes decreased, while Proteobacteria increased. At the genus level, the abundance of beneficial bacteria decreased, while pathogenic bacteria increased. Eradication therapy reduced some resistance genes abundance while increased the resistance genes abundance linked to Escherichia coli. While they all returned to baseline by Week 10. Besides, the difference was observed in Week 10 by the diarrhea score between two groups. Compared to Week 2, the GSRS total score and diarrhea score decreased in Week 3 only in FMT group.

Conclusions

The balance of intestinal flora in patients can be considerably impacted by BQT in the short term, but it has reverted back to baseline by Week 10. FMT can alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms even if there was no evidence it promoted restoration of intestinal flora.
Marketing of higher educational services on social media platforms: Analysing its impact on faculty–student relationship quality and institution's brand performance
Authors: Dwivedi Ram Kumar
Published: July 2024

Higher education institutions (HEIs) have focused on branding to facilitate meaningful and productive conversations about their brand values with potential students, given the competitive global expansion environment in which HEIs operate. This study empirically explores the association between brand performance and relationship quality of HEM. The quantitative findings were evaluated by students from Indian HEIs (N = 365). For the evaluation of the data, structural equation modelling was implemented. A Regression Analysis was used to examine the Social Exchange Theory. The results of this research expose that information quantity, content sharing, and surveillance had a significant influence on relationship quality. Also, social communication, content sharing, information quantity, collaborative learning, and surveillance had a significant impact on brand performance. Future investigation should consider additional mediating aspects regarding social media users' opinions.
A Qualitative Study of National Perspectives on Advancing Social Prescribing Using Co‐Design in Canada
Authors: Saragosa Marianne , Mulligan Kate , Hsiung Sonia , Biswas Srija , Card Kiffer , Hébert Paul C. , Welch Vivian , Nelson Michelle L. A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Social prescribing offers a formal pathway of connecting patients in the health system with sources of support within the community to help improve their health and well‐being. Since its launch in March 2022, the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing has acted as a collective impact network to identify, connect and build upon established social prescribing initiatives using a co‐design methodology. The institute received input from a participant advisory council, co‐design partners and several communities of interest groups. This study aimed to describe the perceptions of the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing's role in advancing social prescribing using a co‐design approach and the barriers and facilitators to implementing social prescribing in Canada.

Methods

We used a qualitative descriptive study design, document analysis, participant observation and semi‐structured individual interviews (n = 7) with members of the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing co‐design group and the institute's leadership. We also analysed documents, field notes and transcripts using codebook thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were developed representing the facilitators of implementing the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing to support social prescribing: Creating relational mechanisms (i.e., partnerships and connections), Bringing awareness to social prescribing and contributing to the evidence (i.e., values and beliefs), Addressing systemic conditions (i.e., having a common language for social prescribing and organizing the community health sector) and Enabling funding and policy to drive social prescribing initiatives (i.e., shifting evidence into policy and securing sustainable funding).

Conclusion

Participants' reflections on the co‐design process demonstrated that the Canadian Institute for Social Prescribing development provided networking opportunities and shared resources relevant to social prescribing. Co‐design efforts also fostered relational and informational support, which laid the necessary groundwork in Canada to overcome the complex interplay between the macro‐ and micro‐level settings in which social prescribing is practiced.

Patient or Public Contribution

The interviews and observations involved participants with lived experience of delivering, receiving or advocating for social prescribing.
Effects of heat‐moisture treatment on the multiscale structure and digestibility of sweet potato starch
Authors: Sun Yangyang , Zhang Shouyu , Zhu Jiaming , Zeng Jie , Li Guanglei
Published: July 2024

The effects of water content on the multi‐scale structure and digestibility of sweet potato starch (SPS) during heat‐moisture treatment (HMT) were studied, and the relationship between water content, starch structure and starch digestibility was analysed. The results showed that the surface of SPS granules changed after HMT, mainly in the form of depression, rupture and adhesion, and the change was more obvious with the increase of water content, and the crystalline structure changed from the original A‐type to A + V‐type. The relative crystallinity and double helix content decreased, the thickness of semi‐crystalline layered structure increased, and the peak intensity decreased. The molecular weight of SPS after HMT tended to be distributed in the low molecular weight range of 4 × 104 g mol−1 < Mw <4 × 105 g mol−1. These structural changes promoted the rearrangement of the intermolecular structure of SPS, which made amylase shield the original action site when acting on SPS, and converted part of rapidly digestible starch (RDS) content into slow digestible starch (SDS) and resistant starch (RS) content, resulting in the increase of SDS and RS content. Especially in HMT‐25, the RS content of SPS was the highest, which was 28.60%. The experimental data can provide theoretical support for broadening the application of SPS.
Stabilisation of extra virgin olive oil‐in‐water emulsions prepared by citrus pectin using green tea and grape seed phenolic extracts and catechin
Authors: Büyük Miray , Yemenicioğlu Ahmet
Published: July 2024

This study aimed at the solution of stability problems of extra virgin olive oil rich (oil:aqueous phase ratio = 50:50) model oil‐in‐water emulsions prepared with pectin using green tea (GTE) and grape seed extracts (GSE), and (+)‐catechin (CAT). Olive oil‐in‐water emulsion prepared with pectin at 0.5% (w/v) without phenolics lost 36% of its stability within 1 day. GTE at 1% (w/v) caused a limited increase in emulsion stability while emulsions with GSE at ≥0.25% or CAT at 1% maintained >90% of their stability after 14 days. GSE and CAT reduced the emulsion droplet size (2.6‐ and 1.9‐fold) while GTE increased the emulsion droplet size (1.5‐fold). Emulsions with GSE showed the smallest and most densely packed lipid droplets. The highest phenolic content and antioxidant activity in emulsions were obtained with CAT followed by GSE and GTE. This work is significant in that it showed the possibility of using GSE to obtain stable extra virgin olive oil emulsion‐based functional foods.
Phenotypes of inflammatory bowel disease in the Māori population of New Zealand
Authors: Law David , Patel Rajan , Gearry Richard , Llewelyn John , Theron Byron , Kerrison Clarence , Fulforth James
Published: July 2024

Background

Māori have historically seen a lower rate of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) compared to New Zealand's non‐Māori population. Recent reports have shown an increasing rate of IBD among Māori patients.

Aim

We performed a study to identify the phenotypes of IBD in the Māori population.

Methods

Patients with IBD of Māori ethnicity were retrospectively identified from four large regions of New Zealand. Electronic records were reviewed to collect details of patients' demographics, phenotypes and clinical features.

Results

We identified 165 Māori patients with IBD, of whom 74 (45.4%) had Crohn disease (CD), 86 (53.5%) had ulcerative colitis (UC) and 5 (3.0%) had IBD‐unclassified (IBD‐U). There were more female (61.8%) patients compared to male (38.2%). This was attributed to the higher ratio of female patients with CD over male (73.9% vs 26.1%), whereas sex was evenly distributed in UC (female 52.2%, male 48.8%). Ileocolonic CD was most frequently seen (36.2%), and the majority had non‐stricturing disease (62.3%) with the absence of perianal involvement (78.2%). Bimodal age peaks were observed, with a first peak at 25–29 years and a second peak at 45–49 years. There was a five‐fold increase in the incidence of IBD in Māori over 20 years.

Conclusions

We present the largest study describing IBD in Māori. IBD phenotypes in Māori were similar to previous regional IBD reports, but there was a significantly higher proportion of female patients with CD in Māori and an earlier second age peak at 45–49 years. Increasing incidence of IBD in Māori has again been demonstrated.
Impact of hospital‐administered extended‐release naltrexone on readmission rates for patients with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Singh Nathaniel M. , Daniel Kristin , Balasanova Alёna A.
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a persistent public health concern, contributing significantly to mortality and morbidity. This study aims to evaluate the impact of in‐hospital extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX) administration on alcohol‐related outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study, conducted at an academic medical centre, included 141 adult patients with AUD who received XR‐NTX between December 2020 and June 2021. Primary and secondary outcomes were assessed 90 days before and after XR‐NTX administration to identify number of alcohol‐related hospitalisations, emergency department (ED) visits and average length of hospital stay. Subgroup analyses assessed outcomes in high hospital utilisers and marginally housed or unhoused populations.

Results

There was a significant decrease in ED visits and length of hospital stay post XR‐NTX and no significant difference in the number of rehospitalisations. Subgroup analysis showed significant reduction in hospital readmissions and ED visits among high hospital utilisers. Our sample was a predominantly middle‐aged, male and white patient population.

Conclusions

In‐hospital initiation of XR‐NTX for AUD was associated with a significant decrease in ED visits and length of hospital stay. While no significant impact on the number of hospitalisations was observed overall, there was a substantial reduction in hospital readmissions and ED visits among high utilisers. Our findings suggest the potential benefits of in‐hospital XR‐NTX, emphasising the need for further research to establish causal relationships, assess cost‐effectiveness and explore effectiveness across diverse patient populations. Effective in‐hospital interventions, such as XR‐NTX, hold promise for improving patient outcomes and reducing the healthcare burden associated with AUD.
The efficacy of topical oxygen therapy for wound healing: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies
Authors: Putri Indri Lakhsmi , Alyssa Agnesia , Aisyah Imaniar Fitri , Permatasari Anak Agung Istri Yulan , Pramanasari Rachmaniar , Wungu Citrawati Dyah Kencono
Published: July 2024

In preclinical studies, topical oxygen treatment (TOT) was shown to enhance wound healing by applying supplemental oxygen topically to the surface of a moist wound at normobaric conditions. The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to provide a thorough evaluation of published RCTs and observational studies that compare supplemental TOT with standard wound care. A total of 1077 studies were obtained from a variety of databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, ProQuest, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, EU Clinical Trial Registers, and Preprints.org. The Jadad scale was employed to assess the reliability of RCT studies, while the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale (NOS) was employed to assess the quality of observational studies. Seven RCT studies (n = 692) and two controlled observational studies (n = 111) were analysed. The rate of healed wounds was 25.8% in the control group and 43.25% in the adjuvant TOT group, which shows the use of TOT significantly increased the number of healed wounds (RR = 1.77; 95% CI 1.18–2.64; p = 0.005). A significant decrease in the percentage of wound area was found in the TOT group in RCT studies (mean difference = 15.64; 95% CI 5.22–26.06; p = 0.003). In observational studies, the rate of healed wounds was 37.5% in the standard care group and 80.95% in the adjuvant TOT group, which shows a significant increase in the number of healed wounds in the adjuvant TOT group (RR = 2.15; 95% CI 1.46–3.15; p < 0.00001). Topical oxygen therapy is considered a great adjuvant therapy for chronic wound healing, particularly wounds with vascular compromise such as diabetic ulcers and pressure ulcers. Further studies on this topic are still needed as there are a lot of potential uses for this technology in various types of wounds.