bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and opportunities for risk‐ and systems‐based control of Listeria monocytogenes transmission through food
Authors: Belias Alexandra , Bolten Samantha , Wiedmann Martin
Published: November 2024

Listeria monocytogenes contamination of ready‐to‐eat (RTE) food products and food‐associated built environments (e.g., processing facilities) represents a food safety issue with major public health and business risk implications. A number of factors make L. monocytogenes control a particular challenge, including (i) its frequent presence in different environments, (ii) its propensity for establishing persistence in food‐associated environments, (iii) its ability to grow under a variety of stressful conditions, and (iv) its ability to cause severe illness, particularly in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant people. Key sources of L. monocytogenes contamination of RTE foods are food‐associated built environments. However, raw materials can also be an important source, particularly for products without a “kill step” (e.g., fresh produce, raw dairy products, cold‐smoked seafood). While certain RTE foods (e.g., deli meats, soft cheeses, produce) have commonly been linked to listeriosis outbreaks, cases, and recalls, a number of factors will influence the specific public health risk a given RTE food represents, including the likelihood of contamination, ability to support L. monocytogenes growth, and consumer‐related factors (including consumption by pregnant or immunocompromised individuals). Consequently, a risk‐based approach presents the most appropriate strategy to minimize the public health and business impact of L. monocytogenes. Key challenges to control L. monocytogenes include (i) development and implementation of food safety systems that prevent L. monocytogenes persistence in food‐associated built environments, (ii) minimizing L. monocytogenes contamination of raw material sources, (iii) implementation of effective root cause analysis procedures, (iv) minimizing L. monocytogenes growth in finished product, and (v) consumer education.
The health benefits of fermented fruits and vegetables and their underlying mechanisms
Authors: Liu Lu , Li Guolong , Cui Lu , Cai Rui , Yuan Yahong , Gao Zhenpeng , Yue Tianli , Wang Zhouli
Published: November 2024

Fermented fruits and vegetables are rich in phenolic compounds, minerals, and vitamins, which have potential health benefits for the prevention of many diseases such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. There is a growing demand for the development of nondairy probiotic products based on fruits and vegetables in view of changing lifestyles (e.g., vegetarianism, veganism, and allergy to dairy products) and the rise of nutritional diet therapy. In this review, the processes and health potential of fermented fruits and vegetables are described. The study focuses on the role of bacteria and fungi in fermented fruits and vegetables, outlines the process of transformation of bioactive components, and systematically summarizes the possible mechanisms of antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and blood pressure‐lowering effects. The health effects of fermented fruits and vegetables depend mainly on the microorganisms present in the fermentation process and the bioactive components they produce, such as phenols, vitamins, and organic acids. These active compounds exert many health effects such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐obesity, hypotensive, hypoglycemic, and other health benefits. Therefore, the development of fermented foods based on fruits and vegetables can be a promising way to adapt to the market demand and to reduce the wastage of agriculturally produced fruits and vegetables.
FEISTY Fortran library and R package to integrate fish and fisheries with biogeochemical models
Authors: Zhao Yixin , van Denderen P. Daniël , Denéchère Rémy , Falciani Jonathan E. , Jacobsen Nis S. , Konstantinopoulos Themistoklis , Ottmann Daniel , Petrik Colleen M. , Soetaert Karline , Stock Charles A. , Andersen Ken H.
Published: November 2024

The FishErIes Size and functional TYpe model (FEISTY) is a mechanistic ecosystem model that fully integrates ecosystem structure across trophic levels through functional types.

We present an R package that enables users to run simulations ranging from a 0D chemostat to full global scales. The library is written in Fortran90 with an R interface and provides a web application for visual exploration.

We present and compare results from four core configurations across a range of depths, productivity and fishing levels, and we assess the convergence of solutions as the number of size classes is increased.

The model has historically been coupled to biogeochemical models of mesozooplankton and detritus production, but it can also be applied in a stand‐alone version. We demonstrate the library to set up and simulate fish communities under varying productivity of mesozooplankton and benthos, and top‐down forcing from fishing.

We outline three strategies for coupling FEISTY with biogeochemical model output and discuss future directions and open issues.
Introduction to deep learning methods for multi‐species predictions
Authors: Hu Yuqing , Si‐Moussi Sara , Thuiller Wilfried
Published: November 2024

Predicting species distributions and entire communities is crucial for ecologists, to enhance our understanding of the drivers behind species distributions and community assembly and to provide quantitative data for conservation efforts.

Popular species distribution models use statistical and machine learning methods but face limitations with multi‐species predictions at the community level, hindered by scalability and data imbalance sensitivity. This paper explores the potential of deep learning methods to overcome these challenges and provide more accurate multi‐species predictions.

Specifically, we introduced four distinct deep learning models that use site × species community data but differ in their internal structure or on the input environmental data structure: (1) a multi‐layer perceptron (MLP) model for tabular data (e.g. in‐situ/raster climate or soil data), (2) a convolutional neural network (CNN) and (3) a vision transformer (ViT) models tailored for image data (e.g. aerial ortho‐photographs, satellite imagery), and a multimodal model that integrates both tabular and image data. We also show how adapted loss functions can address imbalance issues.

We applied these deep learning models to a plant community dataset comprising 130,582 vegetation surveys encompassing 2522 species located in the French Alps. The tabular environmental data consisted of climate, terrain and soil information, while the images were derived from aerial photographs. All models achieved approximately 70% true skill statistics on hold‐out data, demonstrating high predictive capacity for community data, the multimodal model being the best performing one. Additionally, we showcased how interpretability tools can illuminate community structure as seen by deep learning models.

Deep learning models offer a broad array of features for predicting entire species communities. They handle imbalance issues and accommodate various data types, from tabular datasets to images, while also being equipped with insightful interpretation tools. The versatility extends to tabular datasets and images, with no clear superiority between the two. The last hidden layers can provide valuable features for modelling other species, and the trained models can be used to support transfer learning to related tasks. The field of ecology now possesses an additional, potent tool in its arsenal that can foster basic and fundamental research.
Prenatal exposure to maternal hypertension and higher body mass index and risks of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders during childhood
Authors: Nivins Samson , Kumar Parvin , Chen Xinxia , Gissler Mika , Lavebratt Catharina
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) or prepregnancy overweight/obesity are independently associated with the risk for certain neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in offspring. These two conditions often co‐exist but the risk from combined exposure is unknown. We investigated whether specific subtypes of maternal HDP, along with prepregnancy overweight/obesity, were associated with the distinct risk of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in offspring during childhood.

Material and Methods

This prospective, population‐based cohort study used data from 652 732 singleton children born alive in Finland between 2004 and 2014 and followed until 2018. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

Children exposed to both chronic hypertension and obesity exhibited a 2.4–3.5‐fold higher risk for mood disorders, specific developmental disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorders. Similarly, exposure to both gestational hypertension and overweight increased the risk for anxiety disorders and attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorders by 2.4‐fold. Meanwhile, combined exposure to preeclampsia and overweight increased the risk of mood and anxiety disorders, specific developmental disorders, and other behavioral disorders, by 1.8–2.2‐fold. The effect size of combined exposure to HDP and overweight/obesity was greater than that of the individual exposure to HDP subtypes or overweight/obesity. Furthermore, overweight/obesity synergistically modified these associations between the HDP subtype exposure and offspring mental disorders, except for specific developmental disorders.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that combined exposure to different subtypes of HDP and higher prepregnancy BMI have distinct impacts on the mental health of offspring. Notably, a more pronounced effect was observed in cases where chronic hypertension and obesity coexisted. Future research should focus on exploring dose‐related relationships rather than amalgamating maternal HDP for investigating the offspring outcomes.
Cognitive biases and research miscitations
Authors: Simmering Marcia J. , Fuller Christie M. , Leonard Stephanie R. , Simmering Vanessa R.
Published: November 2024

Prior research on miscitations in academic literatures have painted a dismal picture of high rates of inaccuracy. While this issue and the problems that stem from inaccurate citations have been reviewed, the attention given to the causes of such inaccuracies has so far been narrow. The primary rationale given for citation errors is author lack of motivation. In the current manuscript, we suggest that examining the potential for cognitive biases to also contribute to miscitations can add conceptual nuance to this question as well as provide additional recommendations for practice. We argue that even when authors are motivated to cite research correctly, that the cognitive biases of source confusion, gist memory, and repetition effects may lead to miscitations. We explore these ideas with a systematic review of over 1400 papers in which we found that the rates of miscitation are high (44.8%). Additionally, evidence from the review provides some support that cognitive biases may produce miscitations. Recommendations to authors, reviewers, and editors are provided.
Coronary Artery Disease and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in People With Hepatic Steatosis at Low Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk
Authors: Karady Julia , Mayrhofer Thomas , Foldyna Borek , Lu Michael T. , Meyersohn Nandini , Hoffmann Udo , Balogon Oluwafemi , Pagidipati Neha , Shah Svati , Douglas Pamela S. , Ferencik Maros , Corey Kathleen
Published: November 2024

Background

Hepatic steatosis (HS) and 10‐year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk ≥ 7.5% are associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events.

Aim

To assess underlying coronary artery disease (CAD) and major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) among those with and without HS at different ASCVD risk.

Methods

We evaluated stable chest pain patients receiving coronary computed tomography (CT) in the PROMISE trial. HS and CAD endpoints were defined on coronary CT. MACE was defined as unstable angina, non‐fatal myocardial infarction, and all‐cause death. Multivariable Cox regression, adjusting for CAD characteristics, assessed the association of HS with MACE for ASCVD < 7.5%.

Results

One thousand two hundred and four of 3702 (32.5%) patients were at ASCVD < 7.5% and 20.3% (244/1204) of them had HS. Individuals with HS were younger (54.3 ± 5.2 vs. 55.8 ± 5.2; p < 0.001), more often males (40.2% [98/244] vs. 27.1% [260/960]; p < 0.001), had more risk factors/person (2.06 ± 0.89 vs. 1.93 ± 0.91; p = 0.047). CAD characteristics were similar between HS vs. non‐HS patients at ASCVD < 7.5% and ASCVD ≥ 7.5% (all p > 0.05). Patients with HS had greater MACE rate compared to non‐HS patients (ASCVD < 7.5%: 3.75%[9/244] vs. 1.5% [14/960]; p = 0.027 and ASCVD ≥ 7.5%: 4.7% [33/696] vs. 3.1% [56/1802]; p = 0.043). In patients without HS, MACE rate was higher in the ASCVD ≥ 7.5% vs. < 7.5% (3.1% [56/1802] vs. 1.5% [14/960]; p = 0.011). In patients with HS, MACE rates were not significantly different between ASCVD ≥ 7.5% vs. < 7.5% (4.7% [33/696] vs. 3.7% [9/244]; p = 0.484). In ASCVD < 7.5%, HS predicted MACE (aHR:2.34, 95%CI:1.01–5.43; p = 0.048), independent of CAD characteristics.

Conclusions

Individuals with HS at ASCVD < 7.5% risk had similar CAD characteristics as patients without HS at < 7.5% ASCVD risk, yet experienced comparable MACE rates as those at ASCVD ≥ 7.5%.
Effects of the Scopist's Skills on the Perioperative Outcomes of Laparoscopic Liver Resection
Authors: Kimura Taku , Nitta Hiroyuki , Katagiri Hirokatsu , Kanno Shoji , Umemura Akira , Takeda Daiki , Ando Taro , Amano Satoshi , Kawashima Toma , Kikuchi Koji , Kuchida Shuta , Sasaki Akira
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is a difficult procedure that requires the scopist to have a high skill level. Scopists play an important role in ensuring an appropriate surgical field. This is the first study that focuses on the scopist's skills in perioperative outcomes of LLR.

Materials and Methods

Patients who underwent LLR from April 2018 to March 2023 were included in this study. The scopists were separated into expert (≥ 10 LLR procedures as a scopist) and beginner (< 10 LLR procedures as a scopist) groups. The effects of the scopists' skills on the perioperative outcomes of LLR between the two groups were examined retrospectively. In addition to listing baseline characteristics and perioperative outcomes, this study viewed video recordings to list intraoperative surgical manipulation factors as new attempts.

Results

No significant differences were observed in the baseline characteristics or perioperative outcomes between the two groups. The duration of the time during which the surgical procedure was interrupted due to scope operation errors during the Pringle maneuver was significantly longer in the beginner group (71 vs. 198 s, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The scope manipulation by the less experienced LLR scopists sometimes hindered the progress of the surgery. The scopist's skills may lead to an increased psychological burden on the surgeon and prolonged operative times.
Exploring the factors associated with difficulties in extracting tablets or capsules from press‐through‐package sheets
Authors: Tsuchiya Masami , Imai Shungo , Asano Masaki , Shimizu Yuri , Kizaki Hayato , Ito Yukiko , Tsuchiya Makoto , Kuriyama Ryoko , Yoshida Nao , Shimada Masanori , Sando Takanori , Ishijima Tomo , Hori Satoko
Published: November 2024

Exploring factors related to difficulties in extracting tablets or capsules from press‐through‐packages is essential for optimizing the dosage form. To achieve this, the involvement of patient insight is important. In the present study, the preferences of patients regarding drugs that are difficult to extract from their packaging were collected using an electronic medication notebook (‘harmo®’) based on dispensing data. We found that approximately 30% of respondents had difficulty removing tablets or capsules from their packaging, with 125 specific drugs identified as ‘hard to push out’. Independent factors related to ‘hard‐to‐push‐out’ drugs were female sex and feeling of weakness in the hands or fingers. Furthermore, several ‘hard‐to‐push‐out’ drugs had characteristics such as a spherical shape or small major axis or small major axis drug‐to‐pocket size ratio. The findings of this study may help improve the quality of drug packaging, thus enhancing the patients' medication experience.
A successful clinical trial ecosystem offers equal opportunities for all citizens
Authors: El‐Galaly Tarec Christoffer , Roug Anne Stidsholt , Kristensen Daniel Tuyet
Published: November 2024

An inclusive clinical trial ecosystem is essential to obtain scientific results that can be generalized to a broad patient population. When possible, all efforts should be made to remove geographic, demographic, cultural and ethnic barriers for enrolment in clinical trials. However, to do this effectively, we need more knowledge about factors influencing clinical trial participation and practical frameworks to enhance diversity in clinical trials.

Commentary on: Jones et al. Inequalities in geographic barriers and patient representation in lymphoma clinical trials across England. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:531‐540.
Glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) induces mucosal healing via intestinal stem cell niche activation
Authors: Hörner Marius , Burkard Natalie , Kelm Matthias , Leist Antonia , Selig Thekla , Kollmann Catherine , Meir Michael , Otto Christoph , Germer Christoph‐Thomas , Kretzschmar Kai , Flemming Sven , Schlegel Nicolas
Published: November 2024

Mucosal healing is critical to maintain and restore intestinal homeostasis in inflammation. Previous data provide evidence that glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) restores epithelial integrity by largely undefined mechanisms. Here, we assessed the role of GDNF for mucosal healing. In dextran sodium sulphate (DSS)‐induced colitis in mice application of GDNF enhanced recovery as revealed by reduced disease activity index and histological inflammation scores. In biopsy‐based wounding experiments GDNF application in mice improved healing of the intestinal mucosa. GDNF‐induced epithelial recovery was also evident in wound assays from intestinal organoids and Caco2 cells. These observations were accompanied by an increased number of Ki67‐positive cells in vivo after GDNF treatment, which were present along elongated proliferative areas within the crypts. In addition, the intestinal stem cell marker and R‐spondin receptor LGR5 was significantly upregulated following GDNF treatment in all experimental models. The effects of GDNF on cell proliferation, LGR5 and Ki67 upregulation were blocked using the RET‐specific inhibitor BLU‐667. Downstream of RET‐phosphorylation, activation of Src kinase was involved to mediate GDNF effects. GDNF promotes intestinal wound healing by promoting cell proliferation. This is mediated by RET‐dependent activation of Src kinase with consecutive LGR5 upregulation, indicating activation of the stem cell niche.
VEXAS Syndrome: Histiocytoid Cells With Feathery Cytoplasm as a Clue to the Diagnosis
Authors: Ko Christine J. , Odell Ian , Gehlhausen Jeffrey R. , Leventhal Jonathan , McNiff Jennifer M. , Zubek Amanda
Published: November 2024

VEXAS (Vacuoles, E1‐ubiquitin activating enzyme UBA1 variant, X‐linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) syndrome was initially described as having mature neutrophil‐predominant infiltrates. More recent reports suggest that infiltrates can be composed of variable cell types. We report three cases of VEXAS syndrome with seven total biopsies having in common histiocytoid cells with feathery cytoplasm; these cells may be a potential clue to the diagnosis.
Impact of ‘street’ benzodiazepines on drug‐related deaths in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Authors: Rock Kirsten L. , Frinculescu Anca , Shine Trevor , Kalk Nicola J. , Copeland Caroline S.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

‘Street’ benzodiazepines (BZD) are structurally and pharmacologically related to BZDs licensed for human use. In this study we investigated how street BZDs contribute to overall BZD use and death prevalences in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Methods

Data were analysed from deaths reported to the National Programme on Substance Use Mortality with post‐mortem BZD detections (1999–2021), BZDs seized from music festivals (2017–2021) and drug samples with BZD detections submitted to Welsh Emerging Drugs and Identification of Novel Substances (WEDINOS) (2017–2021).

Results

About 14,837 deaths with BZD detections were identified, with polydrug use evident in 99.3% of cases (n = 14,733/14,837). Deaths following BZD use increased by over 200% from 2010 (n = 556) to 2020 (n = 1245). Most BZD detections were of those available via NHS prescription (96.2%), although in most cases (61.9%) the BZD—majority diazepam (77.3% of detections)—had been illicitly sourced. While street BZD deaths represented only 8.5% of overall BZD deaths, street BZD deaths increased by over 1200% between 2015 (n = 26) and 2020 (n = 326). There were increasing proportions of street BZD deaths in each geographical region but was more marked in Northern Ireland. The proportion of individual BZDs seized at music festivals and submitted to WEDINOS largely reflected that of individual BZDs detected in deaths.

Discussion and Conclusions

While deaths following street BZD use are increasing, most BZDs detected in deaths were prescribable BZDs that were often illicitly sourced. The types of BZD detected in post‐mortem samples, festival seizures and WEDINOS submissions has evolved over time to reflect changes in BZD prevalence on the illicit drug market.
Development of a predictive model for gastrointestinal side effects of metformin treatment in Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes based on four randomised clinical trials
Authors: Wang Weihao , Han Yujia , Jiang Xun , Shao Jian , Zhang Jia , Zhou Kaixin , Yang Wenying , Pan Qi , Nie Zedong , Guo Lixin
Published: November 2024

Aims

This study aimed to build a model‐based predictive approach to evaluate the gastrointestinal side effects following an initial metformin medication.

Materials and Methods

The model was developed from data from four randomised clinical cohorts. A prediction model was established using integrated or simplified indicators. Ten machine learning models were used for the construction of predictive models. The Shapley values were used to report the features' contribution.

Results

Four randomised clinical trial cohorts, including 1736 patients with type 2 diabetes, were first included in the analysis. Seventy percent of participants (1216) were allocated to the training set, 15% (260) were assigned to the internal validation set and 15% (260) were assigned to the test set. The Extra Tree model had the highest area under curve (AUC) (0.87) in the validation and test set. The top five crucial indicators were blood urea nitrogen (BUN), sex, triglyceride (TG), high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐C) and total cholesterol (TC), and these five indicators were selected for constructing a simplified predictive model (AUC = 0.76). An online web‐based tool was established based on the predictive model with integrated 17 features and top five indicators.

Conclusions

To predict gastrointestinal side effects in diabetic patients for initial use of metformin, a few easily obtained features are needed to establish the model. The model can be applied to the Chinese population in clinical practice.
Breastfeeding and contrast agents—A critical review and presentation of new aspects
Authors: Lemmenmeier Sina , Boehm Ingrid
Published: November 2024

Background

There are discrepancies between guidelines of scientific societies and information of the package inserts of contrast media concerning breastfeeding following the application of a contrast agent to the mother.

Objectives

The contents of different review articles reflect the opinion of scientific societies. Consequently, in clinical routine settings it is difficult to find the optimal advice for a breastfeeding woman and her baby.

Methods

Therefore, the paper carefully summarized important information dealing with the topic ‘breastfeeding and contrast media’ from the literature. Among other things, the paper focuses on topics that are not yet taken into account in other reviews (e.g. approval for breastfeeding women, contrast agents that have been analysed in human breast milk).

Results

In this way, the review shows new aspects. It has been revealed that data concerning the amount of contrast agents in human breast milk as well as contrast medium absorption by the infants' intestine are sparse. Instead of them, a lot of speculations and incorrect conclusions do exist in the literature. Because studies are rare or missing, contrast media are not approved for breastfeeding women (off‐label‐use).

Conclusion

Although breastfeeding women 100% prefers a break from breastfeeding, in current decision‐making processes, their preference plays a minor role. However, this should change in the future. In addition, it would be very important to inform breastfeeding women in the future about the missing data concerning ‘breastfeeding and contrast media’.
Net Mixture Effects on Nutritive Value in Lucerne‐Grass Swards of Varied Composition and Diversity
Authors: Glowacki Sebastian Christoph , Komainda Martin , Leisen Edmund , Hummel Jürgen , Isselstein Johannes
Published: November 2024

Climate change and associated risks of extreme weather has led to growing interest in drought‐tolerant species such as lucerne (Medicago sativa L.), tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) and cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.) in mixed grass‐legume forage production in North‐Western Europe. Lucerne and grasses have distinct nutritive value that can be combined when grown in mixtures. The extent of a ‘net mixture effect’ (NE) on the nutritive value, that is the deviations of the mixture quality from the expected one derived from the pure stands, has not been studied in any depth and requires further investigation in the context of climate change. The present study was conducted at four sites during two main cropping years with the aim of comparing potentially drought‐tolerant mixtures against pure stands. With significant sward type × site × year interactions, nutritive value of the mixed swards often differed significantly from pure stands, ranging intermediate between the component pure stand nutritive value. The concentration of water‐soluble carbohydrate (WSC) did not differ between mixtures and lucerne pure stands. Significant NE were found, with larger measured concentrations in mixtures compared to those predicted, for neutral and acid detergent fibre and the crude protein:WSC ratio. The concentrations of WSC and metabolizable energy were smaller than expected. The NE was not influenced by sward type or species number, except for WSC at a few sites. The results show that improved knowledge of positive mixing effects could be used to specifically enhance the nutritive value in grasses‐lucerne mixtures irrespective of sward diversity.
Exploring the use and usability of the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) ‘Evidence in your inbox’ e‐mail alert service
Authors: Wong Jeremy Joelin , Sharma Sweekriti , Wong Alfred , Moseley Anne M. , Ilhan Emre
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate the use and useability of the Physiotherapy Evidence Database's ‘Evidence in your inbox’ e‐mail alert service.

Materials and Methods

An explanatory sequential design consisting of a usage evaluation, cross‐sectional survey, and semi‐structured interviews. Usage was evaluated using routinely collected data from October 2015 to March 2021: number of subscribers, number of articles, open rates, and click‐through rates. Subscribers were subdivided by level of engagement. All subscribers were invited to participate in a 17‐question online survey. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a subgroup of participants who completed the survey.

Results

The service sent a minimum of 121 or a maximum of 431 articles, on average, each month across 15 feeds to 16,556 subscribers. Overtime, the rate of opening and clicking on links within e‐mails decreased. Low engagers (62%) subscribed to 3.5 (95% CI 3.7–3.4) more feeds than high engagers (23%) and 2.8 (95% CI 3.0–2.6) more than moderate engagers (15%). Seventy‐one subscribers completed the survey, 89% of whom were satisfied with the service and who thought it was an efficient way to be updated on evidence (98%). Six subscribers participated in semi‐structured interviews. Thematic analysis of interviews identified five facilitators and four barriers to using the service, with three potential solutions to aid useability.

Discussion and Conclusion

The format and structure of the service may facilitate its use and usability. Addressing barriers of having too few or too many articles, and lack of time to read full articles may enhance the usability of ‘Evidence in your inbox’.
Initiation of molecular testing of endometrial carcinomas in a population‐based setting: practical considerations and pitfalls
Authors: Machuca‐Aguado Jesús , Catherwood Mark , Houghton Oisin , Taylor Jennifer , Shah Rajeev , Ben‐Mussa Ali , Gonzalez David , McCluggage W Glenn
Published: November 2024

Aims

Since the publication of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) molecular Classification of endometrial carcinomas in 2013, multiple studies have demonstrated the prognostic and therapeutic importance of this. However, there is great variability on whether and how this is undertaken in different institutions, and this is often dependent on resources and availability of molecular testing. Points of controversy include whether molecular classification is needed on all endometrial carcinomas and whether pure molecular testing is undertaken or a surrogate such as the ProMisE (Proactive Molecular Risk Classifier for Endometrial Cancer) Classifier. Herein we report our experience instigating molecular classification of endometrial carcinomas in Northern Ireland.

Methods and Results

From 1st March 2023, all endometrial carcinomas diagnosed on biopsy in the four pathology laboratories in Northern Ireland were referred to the central molecular pathology laboratory for genomic analysis using a custom next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panel; the NGS panel included the entire coding regions of polymerase epsilon (POLE) and TP53 genes, as well as microsatellite instability (MSI) analysis. All cases also underwent immunohistochemical staining with oestrogen receptor (ER), p53, and the mismatch repair (MMR) proteins MLH1, PMS2, MSH2, and MSH6. The molecular results were available by the time of surgery (if a hysterectomy was performed) allowing integration into the final pathology report where a TCGA molecular type was assigned. Two hundred and sixty‐seven endometrial carcinomas underwent molecular testing; in five cases, there was insufficient material for testing, leaving 262 cases. The TCGA groups were POLEmut (19; 7.3%), MMRd (63; 24%), p53abn (62; 23.7%), and no specific molecular profile (NSMP) 118 (45%). Seventeen tumours (6.5%) were “multiple‐classifiers”: five POLEmut‐p53abn, two POLEmut‐MMRd, one POLE‐MMRd‐p53abn (all included in the POLEmut TCGA group), and nine MMRd‐p53abn (included in the MMRd group).

Conclusion

This represents one of the first population‐based studies investigating the prevalence of the different TCGA molecular groups of endometrial carcinomas in an unselected population. Performing molecular testing on biopsies enables management to be tailored to the molecular group and allows integration of the TCGA group into the report of the final resection specimen. We hope our experience will facilitate other laboratories in undertaking TCGA molecular classification.
Preparation of aluminum borate whiskers/CoxCr3‐xO4 catalysts on channel surface of cordierite honeycomb ceramic for soot catalytic combustion
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Wang Ying , Yu Min , He Mengyuan , Cao Liping , Luo Xiaoying , Wang Wei
Published: November 2024

The monolith catalysts with the hierarchical microstructure prepared from cordierite honeycomb ceramics by the molten salt reaction and the sol–gel impregnation technology. Aluminum borate whiskers (Al18B4O33) with the lengths of 10–70 µm and the diameters of 0.1–1.4 µm were grown on the channel surface of cordierite honeycomb ceramics, and cilia‐like microstructure improve the capture ability of soot in exhaust. A series of spinel‐type catalysts CoxCr3‐xO4 have loaded on aluminum borate whiskers using the sol–gel impregnation process, and sample Z/C1C2‐0.25 possess the optimal soot catalytic oxidation activity. The study employed various techniques to characterize morphology and phase composition, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), Brumauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA). The cyclic stability experiments demonstrate that spinel‐type catalysts Z/C1C2‐0.25 exhibits excellent structural stability and consistent catalytic performance. This unique microstructure has great potential applications in the field of DPF.
Tm3+‐doped mixed alkaline‐earth zinc‐silico‐calcium aluminate glasses: A promising material for near‐infrared laser
Authors: Mohapatra Sushanta Kumar , Maharana H. S. , Annapurna K.
Published: November 2024

This work is focused on the concentration‐dependent study of Tm2O3 (0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 mol%) doped zinc‐silico‐calcium aluminate glasses for infrared emission. The amorphous nature and good thermal stability (ΔT > 150°C) of prepared glasses are confirmed by X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. The decrease in glass transition temperature and optical band gap, coupled with the increasing trend in optical basicity, linear thermal expansion, molar volume, and oxygen packing density with Tm3+ ions concentration, suggests their preference for non‐bridging oxygen sites. Two emission peaks at 800 nm (3H4→3H6) and 659 nm (1G4→3F4) while another two emission peaks at 1800 nm (3F4→3H6) and 1487 nm (3H4→3F4) are observed under both 475 and 808 nm excitations, respectively. The realization of emission quenching at 800 nm beyond 0.25 mol% of Tm2O3 concentration may be due to resonant energy transfer and cross‐relaxation mechanism (3H4:3H6→3F4:3F4) while for 1800 nm emission, the observed quenching beyond 0.5 mol% of Tm2O3 is due to the energy migration to OH− ions and reabsorption (resonant energy absorption). The modified Mc Cumber theory is used to evaluate corresponding emission cross‐sections and discussed along with their gain factors for their applicability as 800 and 1800 nm laser materials.
Role of ceramics in machining of composite materials: A comprehensive review
Authors: Varikkadinmel Binaz , Singh Inderdeep
Published: November 2024

The current review article explores advancements in machining of metal matrix composites (MMCs), polymer‐matrix composites (PMCs), and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs), with a focus on the critical role of ceramic abrasives. Processes, such as slotted electrical discharge abrasive grinding (SEDAG) and electrochemical discharge grinding machining, utilize both thermal (spark erosion) and mechanical (abrasive) actions, effectively balancing material removal and minimizing damage during machining of MMCs. For PMCs, rotary ultrasonic face grinding combines grinding with ultrasonic vibrations, reducing friction and cutting forces. In CMCs, advanced methods, such as laser‐assisted grinding (LAG) and laser‐ablating‐assisted grinding (LAAG), are particularly effective. LAG preheats the material, softening it for easier removal, whereas LAAG ablates the material directly, reducing cutting forces and subsurface damage. These methods are tailored to the material properties of each composite, optimizing removal rates and surface quality. The research emphasizes that ceramic abrasives significantly improve machining efficiency and surface integrity when optimized with the right combination of parameters. By discussing the interaction of abrasives with composite materials, this review article provides key insights into improving machining processes, making it a valuable reference for researchers seeking to enhance machinability of composite materials across various applications.
Predictive Effects of Phraseological Complexity on the Quality of Chinese EFL Learners’ L2 Oral Production
Authors: Wang Tingting , Zhou Dandan
Published: November 2024

Phraseological complexity measures have demonstrated significant predictive power for L2 proficiency, predominantly in written contexts. However, empirical evidence regarding their role in L2 oral production remains limited. This study investigates the predictive validity of phraseological complexity measures on L2 oral performance and examines their capacity to differentiate learners across proficiency levels. Analyzing oral performances of 90 test takers in the TEM8‐Oral (test for English majors band eight oral test), results revealed that phraseological complexity exhibited stronger explanatory power for oral performance compared to lexical and syntactic complexity, with advmod_RTTR (‘adverb + adjective/adverb/verb’ Root Type‐Token Ratio) emerging as the most potent predictor. Significant differences were observed in amod_RTTR (‘adjective + noun’ Root Type‐Token Ratio), dobj_RTTR (‘verb + direct object’ Root Type‐Token Ratio), and advmod_RTTR across proficiency levels. Notably, dobj_RTTR and advmod_RTTR uniquely distinguished between all adjacent levels, while other features differentiated only specific levels or showed no clear trends. This study expands on the research on the relationship between phraseological complexity and L2 speaking ability in a Chinese context and provides implications for oral English teaching and refinement of rating for English speaking assessment.
First records of the roughskin dogfish Centroscymnus owstonii in the greater Antilles, central Caribbean Sea, Western Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Dixon Olivia F. L. , Aldridge Shannon E. , Kohler Johanna K. , Veeder Anne , Chin Paul , Fernandes Teresa F. , Austin Timothy , Ormond Rupert F. , Gore Mauvis A. , Vaz Diego F. B. , Gallagher Austin J.
Published: November 2024

The roughskin dogfish Centroscymnus owstonii, a deep‐sea shark, has a patchy global distribution, with most knowledge stemming from incidentally captured specimens. Using a deep‐sea remote lander video system, we observed multiple C. owstonii individuals alive on the footage at 1054 m off Little Cayman, Cayman Islands, Western Atlantic Ocean, marking, to our knowledge, the first record of the species in the Greater Antilles, central Caribbean Sea, while also adding a new species locality record for the Cayman Islands. This study expands our knowledge of the distribution of the roughskin dogfish in the region, and highlights the utility of video lander systems for enhancing and expanding our understanding of the biology and diversity of deep‐sea sharks.
Epidemiological Study of Parasites of the Edible Scallop Aequipecten tehuelchus in Patagonia, Southwest Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Vázquez Nuria , Gilardoni Carmen , Cremonte Florencia
Published: November 2024

This study assesses the health status of the edible Tehuelche scallop, Aequipecten tehuelchus, reporting the epidemiological results of the parasites and their infection levels by histopathological analysis and transmission electron microscopy. Environmental factors (site: West and East domains of the San José gulf, seawater temperature) and host traits (size, physiological condition index, gonad development stages) associated with parasite load (prevalence, mean intensity, parasite abundance and total parasite abundance) were tested with generalised linear models (GLMs). Histopathological results revealed Rickettsia‐like organisms (RLOs), several protozoans (Trichodina sp., Nematopsis sp. and APXSc apicomplexans) and metazoans (turbellarians and Tumidotheres maculatus pea crabs) as well as inflammatory lesions in form of granulomas and hemocytic infiltration. The prevalence of the parasitofauna did not vary significantly between gulf domains, except the apicomplexan APXSc that was significantly most prevalent in scallops from the East Domain. However, the mean intensity of infection seemed to be determined by the gulf domains, which present distinct hydrographic regimes, where RLO's, Trichodina sp. and T. maculatus were significantly more intense in scallops from the West, opposite with Nematopsis sp. infection. Total parasite abundance was influenced by seasonal variations, it was negatively correlated with warmer temperatures. The physiological condition index of A. tehuelchus seemed not to be affected by the presence or abundance of any of the parasites. Nevertheless, the apicomplexan APXSc would represent a significant risk to the health of A. tehuelchus due to the pathological conditions, and surveillance of this parasite is needed for a sustainable A. tehuelchus fishery.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility and Local Epidemiological Cut‐Off Values of Vibrio anguillarum Isolated From Fish Farms in Turkey
Authors: Duman Muhammed , Altun Soner , Satıcıoğlu Izzet Burçin , Balcı Kübra , Taşgın Merve , Bayrak Nisa , Concha Christopher , Miranda Claudio D. , Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben
Published: November 2024

Studies on preventing antimicrobial resistance in aquaculture emphasise the need to responsibly and prudently use antimicrobials, selecting those most effective in controlling and/or reducing mortalities caused by vibriosis. In this study, the distribution of the antimicrobial susceptibility of 28 Vibrio anguillarum isolates from Turkish fish farms was determined using the broth microdilution minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) test according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guideline. The epidemiological cut‐off (COWT) values of the V. anguillarum isolates of florfenicol (FLO), tetracycline (TET), doxycycline (DOX), oxolinic acid (OXO), enrofloxacin (ENR) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (SXT) were calculated using the normalised resistance interpretation (NRI) and ECOFFinder methods. Isolates were categorised as belonging to the fully susceptible wild‐type (WT) or non‐wild‐type (NWT) populations. Calculated COWT values (in μg mL−1) were ≤ 1.0 for FLO and DOX, ≤ 0.5 for TET, ≤ 0.016 for ENR, ≤ 0.032 for OXO, and ≤ 4.0 for SXT using the NRI analysis. Percentages of V. anguillarum isolates categorised as belonging to the NWT population were small for the antimicrobials FLO (10.7%) and SXT (0%), whereas they were higher for the antimicrobials OXO (39.3%) and ENR (39.3%). This is the first study to estimate the local COWT values for antibiotics used in the control of V. anguillarum isolates recovered from farmed fish in Turkey.
The Mechanism of Immune Intervention by Iguratimod in Oral Lichen Planus Patients: An In Vitro Experimental Study
Authors: Zhang Mengna , Cheng Juehua , Liu Jia , Geng Yanlin , Fan Yuan , Yang Liqun , Zhu Yuchi
Published: November 2024

Background

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T cell‐mediated immune disease. Iguratimod (IGU) is a novel immunomodulatory agent for rheumatoid arthritis. No studies have been reported on the mechanism of IGU in the treatment of OLP, which deserves investigation.

Methods

Samples were collected from two batches of non‐erosive OLP, erosive OLP (EOLP) patients and healthy control subjects. In the first batch, the effects of IGU or the same volume of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on proliferation, apoptosis and migration of peripheral blood T lymphocytes (PBL T) were examined by CCK‐8, flow cytometry and transwell assay respectively. The levels of IL‐6, IL‐17, TNF‐α, TGF‐β and IL‐10 were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. In the second batch, the percentages of Th17 and Treg cells were determined by flow cytometry in peripheral blood mononuclear cells after IGU or DMSO stimulation.

Results

Compared with the control, IGU promoted apoptosis and inhibited migration, but had no significant effect on the proliferation of PBL T in OLP. IL‐6, IL‐17 and TNF‐α were decreased in OLP. TGF‐β and IL‐10 showed an upward trend in the IGU‐treated EOLP. IGU decreased Th17 in OLP and reduced Th17/Treg ratio in EOLP. The percentage of Treg cells showed an upregulated trend but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

IGU may intervene in the immune response of OLP by affecting functions of PBL T, improving the balance of Th17/Treg and regulating related cytokines.
Anglo‐Muhammadan Uṣūl al‐Fiqh?: The Development of Colonial Legal Theory in British India
Authors: Siddiqui Sohaira
Published: November 2024

The jural colonization of Islamic law in India is predominantly read through the translation of key Ḥanafī fiqh texts in the early colonial period and the adjudication of legal cases relying on these texts. Ostensibly missing in this discussion is uṣūl al‐fiqh. To what extent were colonial officials concerned with uṣūl al‐fiqh? Were there any texts of uṣūl al‐fiqh penned under the guise of jural colonization? And if so, what do these texts reveal about the Ḥanafī tradition in the British colonial period? This essay will analyze the first text of uṣūl al‐fiqh, The Principles of Muhammadan Jurisprudence, penned in the late 19th century by a prominent Muslim judge, Abdur Rahim (1867‐1952). Abdur Rahim's impetus for writing his text was to respond to specific critiques of Islamic law that characterized it as an incoherent legal system that could not generate legal certainty. Through exploring his text, I argue that despite his lack of ostensible madrasa training, Abdur Rahim situates his text within the intellectual development of the Ḥanafī school. However, because his text was intended for the British colonial elite, he minimizes key features of Ḥanafī uṣūl al‐fiqh and ultimately produces a text that reflective more of madhhab eclecticism.
Feasibility of Using Rebound Exercise in Community‐Dwelling Adults With Neurological Disorders
Authors: Okemuo Adaora Justina , Dairo Yetunde Marion , Gallagher Dearbhla
Published: November 2024

Rebound exercise (RE) increases mobility in hospitalized adults with neurological disorders (AwND), but its feasibility in community settings remains largely unexplored. This study evaluates the practicality of implementing RE in the community, particularly for AwND. The feasibility study involved 53 community‐dwelling AwND engaging in RE sessions for 30 min, once‐ or twice‐weekly, over 12 weeks. Feasibility was assessed through recruitment rates, adherence, attrition, and participant feedback. The study measured blood pressure (BP), walking speed (WS), and physical activity level (PAL) at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks. Repeated measures ANOVA and the Friedman tests were used to test for significant differences across the time points. The study demonstrated high recruitment (70.59%) and retention (98.1%) rates, with most participants (76.9%) preferring once‐weekly sessions due to time constraints. There were no reported injuries or adverse events. Most participants were older adults (50%), females (67.3%), and retired (55.8%). Significantly lower resting BP (p < 0.001), higher WS (p < 0.001), and PAL (p = 0.000) were observed after 12 weeks of RE. In conclusion, RE is a feasible, safe, and acceptable intervention for supervised community‐dwelling AwND and could be a valuable tool for promoting PAL in this population.
Refractory Maxillary Sinusitis Secondary to Odontogenic Malignancy: A Case Report
Authors: Dhanrajani Parmanand , Chung Patrick
Published: November 2024

Aim

To present a case of unilateral refractory maxillary sinusitis that underlines the difficulties in differentiating between odontogenic inflammatory and malignant pathology.

Method and Material

The case report discusses the clinical presentation, investigations and specialist consultations of a patient suffering from refractory maxillary sinusitis.

Results

The eventual diagnosis of keratinising squamous cell carcinoma.

Conclusion

This case presentation highlights both the difficulty and importance in determining the underlying cause of refractory maxillary sinusitis.