bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Healthcare costs attributable to diabetes in pregnancy: A cost of illness study in Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Dinh Thi Thu Ngan , de Graaff Barbara , Campbell Julie A. , Jose Matthew D. , Burgess John , Saunder Timothy , Kitsos Alex , Palmer Andrew J.
Published: August 2024

Aims

To estimate the direct costs during the prenatal, delivery and postpartum periods in mothers with diabetes in pregnancy, compared to those without.

Methods

This study used a population‐based dataset from 2004 to 2017, including 57,090 people with diabetes and 114,179 people without diabetes in Tasmania, Australia. Based on diagnostic codes, delivery episodes with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) were identified and matched with delivery episodes without diabetes in pregnancy. A group of delivery episodes with pre‐existing diabetes was identified for comparison. Hospitalisation, emergency department and pathology costs of these groups were calculated and adjusted to 2020–2021 Australian dollars.

Results

There were 2774 delivery episodes with GDM, 2774 delivery episodes without diabetes and 237 delivery episodes with pre‐existing diabetes identified. Across the 24‐month period, the pre‐existing diabetes group required the highest costs, totalling $23,536/person. This was followed by the GDM ($13,210/person), and the no diabetes group ($11,167/person). The incremental costs of GDM over the no diabetes group were $890 (95% CI 635; 1160) in the year preceding delivery; $812 (616; 1031) within the delivery period and $341 (110; 582) in the year following delivery (p < 0.05). Within the year preceding delivery, the incremental costs in the prenatal period were $803 (579; 1058) (p < 0.05). Within the year following delivery, the incremental costs in the postpartum period were $137 (55; 238) (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results emphasised the importance of proper management of diabetes in pregnancy in the prenatal and postpartum periods and highlighted the significance of screening and preventative strategies for diabetes in pregnancy.
Wheat varieties show consistent differences in root colonization by mycorrhiza across a European pedoclimatic gradient
Authors: Veršulienė Agnė , Hirte Juliane , Ciulla Federica , Camenzind Moritz , Don Axel , Durand‐Maniclas Fabien , Heinemann Henrike , Herrera Juan M. , Hund Andreas , Seidel Felix , da Silva‐Lopes Marta , Toleikienė Monika , Visse‐Mansiaux Margot , Yu Kang , Bender S. Franz
Published: August 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi form mutualistic relationships with the majority of land plants and are an important part of the soil microbial community in natural and agricultural ecosystems. These fungi promote water and nutrient acquisition by their host plant and regulate the allocation of photosynthetic carbon to soil. Both crop variety and environment affect naturally occurring mycorrhizal abundance in roots, but the relative importance of those factors for mycorrhization is largely unknown. In a field study covering a large pedoclimatic gradient across four European sites, we (i) compared the abundance of AM fungi in the roots of 10 modern winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties, (ii) evaluated the relative importance of variety and site for the variability in root colonization by AM fungi and (iii) tested the relationship between mycorrhizal abundance and grain yield. Root colonization by arbuscules and hyphae ranged from 10% to 59% and 20% to 91%, respectively, across all samples and varied by 8% and 18%, respectively, among varieties when averaged across sites. Variance decomposition analysis revealed a 10 times higher importance of site than variety for AM fungal root colonization. Specifically, we found the highest mycorrhizal abundance on the site with the most arid conditions and the lowest on the sites with low soil pH and high nutrient availability. Despite the low variability in mycorrhizal abundance among varieties, there were significant differences in both arbuscular and hyphal root colonization. However, this did not translate into an increase in yield as no significant relationships between mycorrhizal abundance at flowering and grain yield were detected. The consistent differences between wheat varieties in root colonization by AM fungi across European field sites underline that genetic drivers of mycorrhization are to some extent independent of the site. This highlights the relevance of breeding practices to shape a wheat variety's capacity for mycorrhizal symbiosis across a range of environmental conditions.
Reconstructing 120 years of climate change impacts on Joshua tree flowering
Authors: Yoder Jeremy B. , Andrade Ana Karina , DeFalco Lesley A. , Esque Todd C. , Carlson Colin J. , Shryock Daniel F. , Yeager Ray , Smith Christopher I.
Published: August 2024

Quantifying how global change impacts wild populations remains challenging, especially for species poorly represented by systematic datasets. Here, we infer climate change effects on masting by Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia and Y. jaegeriana), keystone perennials of the Mojave Desert, from 15 years of crowdsourced observations. We annotated phenophase in 10,212 geo‐referenced images of Joshua trees on the iNaturalist crowdsourcing platform, and used them to train machine learning models predicting flowering from annual weather records. Hindcasting to 1900 with a trained model successfully recovers flowering events in independent historical records and reveals a slightly rising frequency of conditions supporting flowering since the early 20th Century. This reflects increased variation in annual precipitation, which drives masting events in wet years—but also increasing temperatures and drought stress, which may have net negative impacts on recruitment. Our findings reaffirm the value of crowdsourcing for understanding climate change impacts on biodiversity.
Unfolding the dynamics of ecosystems undergoing alternating wet‐dry transitional states
Authors: Arias‐Real Rebeca , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Sabater Sergi , Gutiérrez‐Cánovas Cayetano , Valencia Enrique , Aragón Gregorio , Cantón Yolanda , Datry Thibault , Giordani Paolo , Medina Nagore G. , de los Ríos Asunción , Romaní Anna M. , Weber Bettina , Hurtado Pilar
Published: August 2024

A significant fraction of Earth's ecosystems undergoes periodic wet‐dry alternating transitional states. These globally distributed water‐driven transitional ecosystems, such as intermittent rivers and coastal shorelines, have traditionally been studied as two distinct entities, whereas they constitute a single, interconnected meta‐ecosystem. This has resulted in a poor conceptual and empirical understanding of water‐driven transitional ecosystems. Here, we develop a conceptual framework that places the temporal availability of water as the core driver of biodiversity and functional patterns of transitional ecosystems at the global scale. Biological covers (e.g., aquatic biofilms and biocrusts) serve as an excellent model system thriving in both aquatic and terrestrial states, where their succession underscores the intricate interplay between these two states. The duration, frequency, and rate of change of wet‐dry cycles impose distinct plausible scenarios where different types of biological covers can occur depending on their desiccation/hydration resistance traits. This implies that the distinct eco‐evolutionary potential of biological covers, represented by their trait profiles, would support different functions while maintaining similar multifunctionality levels. By embracing multiple alternating transitional states as interconnected entities, our approach can help to better understand and manage global change impacts on biodiversity and multifunctionality in water‐driven transitional ecosystems, while providing new avenues for interdisciplinary studies.
Histone modification in psoriasis: Molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets
Authors: Liu Ruifeng , Zhang Luyao , Zhang Kaiming
Published: August 2024

Psoriasis is an immune‐mediated, inflammatory disease. Genetic and environmental elements are involved in the nosogenesis of this illness. Epigenetic inheritance serves as the connection between genetic and environmental factors. Histone modification, an epigenetic regulatory mechanism, is implicated in the development of numerous diseases. The basic function of histone modification is to regulate cellular functions by modifying gene expression. Modulation of histone modification, such as regulation of enzymes pertinent to histone modification, can be an alternative approach for treating some diseases, including psoriasis. Herein, we reviewed the regulatory mechanisms and biological effects of histone modifications and their roles in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Does time heal all wounds? Psychological responses to trauma and financial risk‐taking
Authors: Shi Yushui , Veld Chris , Yin Haiying
Published: August 2024

We study whether psychological responses to trauma are associated with financial risk‐taking behavior. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms for individuals, assessed after the traumatic experiences, are used as psychological responses to the events. Individuals who experience moderate‐level PTSD symptoms are 1.5% more likely to invest in risky assets, whereas individuals with high‐level PTSD symptoms are 2.4% less likely to invest in risky assets. Further analysis suggests that the association between PTSD symptoms and risk‐taking comes through a preferences channel rather than a beliefs channel.
Reconciling the EU forest, biodiversity, and climate strategies
Authors: Gregor Konstantin , Reyer Christopher P. O. , Nagel Thomas A. , Mäkelä Annikki , Krause Andreas , Knoke Thomas , Rammig Anja
Published: August 2024

Forests provide important ecosystem services (ESs), including climate change mitigation, local climate regulation, habitat for biodiversity, wood and non‐wood products, energy, and recreation. Simultaneously, forests are increasingly affected by climate change and need to be adapted to future environmental conditions. Current legislation, including the European Union (EU) Biodiversity Strategy, EU Forest Strategy, and national laws, aims to protect forest landscapes, enhance ESs, adapt forests to climate change, and leverage forest products for climate change mitigation and the bioeconomy. However, reconciling all these competing demands poses a tremendous task for policymakers, forest managers, conservation agencies, and other stakeholders, especially given the uncertainty associated with future climate impacts. Here, we used process‐based ecosystem modeling and robust multi‐criteria optimization to develop forest management portfolios that provide multiple ESs across a wide range of climate scenarios. We included constraints to strictly protect 10% of Europe's land area and to provide stable harvest levels under every climate scenario. The optimization showed only limited options to improve ES provision within these constraints. Consequently, management portfolios suffered from low diversity, which contradicts the goal of multi‐functionality and exposes regions to significant risk due to a lack of risk diversification. Additionally, certain regions, especially those in the north, would need to prioritize timber provision to compensate for reduced harvests elsewhere. This conflicts with EU LULUCF targets for increased forest carbon sinks in all member states and prevents an equal distribution of strictly protected areas, introducing a bias as to which forest ecosystems are more protected than others. Thus, coordinated strategies at the European level are imperative to address these challenges effectively. We suggest that the implementation of the EU Biodiversity Strategy, EU Forest Strategy, and targets for forest carbon sinks require complementary measures to alleviate the conflicting demands on forests.
High heat tolerance, evaporative cooling, and stomatal decoupling regulate canopy temperature and their safety margins in three European oak species
Authors: Gauthey Alice , Kahmen Ansgar , Limousin Jean‐Marc , Vilagrosa Alberto , Didion‐Gency Margaux , Mas Eugénie , Milano Arianna , Tunas Alex , Grossiord Charlotte
Published: August 2024

Heatwaves and soil droughts are increasing in frequency and intensity, leading many tree species to exceed their thermal thresholds, and driving wide‐scale forest mortality. Therefore, investigating heat tolerance and canopy temperature regulation mechanisms is essential to understanding and predicting tree vulnerability to hot droughts. We measured the diurnal and seasonal variation in leaf water potential (Ψ), gas exchange (photosynthesis Anet and stomatal conductance gs), canopy temperature (Tcan), and heat tolerance (leaf critical temperature Tcrit and thermal safety margins TSM, i.e., the difference between maximum Tcan and Tcrit) in three oak species in forests along a latitudinal gradient (Quercus petraea in Switzerland, Quercus ilex in France, and Quercus coccifera in Spain) throughout the growing season. Gas exchange and Ψ of all species were strongly reduced by increased air temperature (Tair) and soil drying, resulting in stomatal closure and inhibition of photosynthesis in Q. ilex and Q. coccifera when Tair surpassed 30°C and soil moisture dropped below 14%. Across all seasons, Tcan was mainly above Tair but increased strongly (up to 10°C > Tair) when Anet was null or negative. Although trees endured extreme Tair (up to 42°C), positive TSM were maintained during the growing season due to high Tcrit in all species (average Tcrit of 54.7°C) and possibly stomatal decoupling (i.e., Anet ≤0 while gs >0). Indeed, Q. ilex and Q. coccifera trees maintained low but positive gs (despite null Anet), decreasing Ψ passed embolism thresholds. This may have prevented Tcan from rising above Tcrit during extreme heat. Overall, our work highlighted that the mechanisms behind heat tolerance and leaf temperature regulation in oak trees include a combination of high evaporative cooling, large heat tolerance limits, and stomatal decoupling. These processes must be considered to accurately predict plant damages, survival, and mortality during extreme heatwaves.
No general support for functional diversity enhancing resilience across terrestrial plant communities
Authors: Lipoma Lucrecia , Kambach Stephan , Díaz Sandra , Sabatini Francesco María , Damasceno Gabriella , Kattge Jens , Wirth Christian , Abella Scott R. , Beierkuhnlein Carl , Belote Travis R. , Bernhardt‐Römermann Markus , Craven Dylan , Dolezal Jiri , Eisenhauer Nico , Isbell Forest , Jentsch Anke , Kreyling Jürgen , Lanta Vojtech , Le Stradic Soizig , Lepš Jan , Manninen Outi , Mariotte Pierre , Reich Peter B. , Ruppert Jan C. , Schmidt Wolfgang , Tilman David , van Ruijven Jasper , Wagg Cameron , Wardle David A. , Wilsey Brien , Bruelheide Helge
Published: August 2024

Aim

Understanding the mechanisms promoting resilience in plant communities is crucial in times of increasing disturbance and global environmental change. Here, we present the first meta‐analysis evaluating the relationship between functional diversity and resilience of plant communities. Specifically, we tested whether the resilience of plant communities is positively correlated with interspecific trait variation (following the niche complementarity hypothesis) and the dominance of acquisitive and small‐size species (following the mass ratio hypothesis), and for the context‐dependent effects of ecological and methodological differences across studies.

Location

Global.

Time Period

2004–2021.

Major Taxa Studied

Vascular plants.

Methods

We compiled a dataset of 69 independent sites from 26 studies that have quantified resilience. For each site, we calculated functional diversity indices based on the floristic composition and functional traits of the plant community (obtained from the TRY database) which we correlated with resilience of biomass and floristic composition. After transforming correlation coefficients to Fisher's Z‐scores, we conducted a hierarchical meta‐analysis, using a multilevel random‐effects model that accounted for the non‐independence of multiple effect sizes and the effects of ecological and methodological moderators.

Results

In general, we found no positive functional diversity–resilience relationships of grand mean effect sizes. In contrast to our expectations, we encountered a negative relationship between resilience and trait variety, especially in woody ecosystems, whereas there was a positive relationship between resilience and the dominance of acquisitive species in herbaceous ecosystems. Finally, the functional diversity–resilience relationships were strongly affected by both ecological (biome and disturbance properties) and methodological (temporal scale, study design and resilience metric) characteristics.

Main Conclusions

We rejected our hypothesis of a general positive functional diversity–resilience relationship. In addition to strong context dependency, we propose that idiosyncratic effects of single resident species present in the communities before the disturbances and biological legacies could play major roles in the resilience of terrestrial plant communities.
Sensory sentinels: Neuroimmune detection and food allergy
Authors: Matatia Peri R. , Christian Elena , Sokol Caroline L.
Published: August 2024

Food allergy is classically characterized by an inappropriate type‐2 immune response to allergenic food antigens. However, how allergens are detected and how that detection leads to the initiation of allergic immunity is poorly understood. In addition to the gastrointestinal tract, the barrier epithelium of the skin may also act as a site of food allergen sensitization. These barrier epithelia are densely innervated by sensory neurons, which respond to diverse physical environmental stimuli. Recent findings suggest that sensory neurons can directly detect a broad array of immunogens, including allergens, triggering sensory responses and the release of neuropeptides that influence immune cell function. Reciprocally, immune mediators modulate the activation or responsiveness of sensory neurons, forming neuroimmune feedback loops that may impact allergic immune responses. By utilizing cutaneous allergen exposure as a model, this review explores the pivotal role of sensory neurons in allergen detection and their dynamic bidirectional communication with the immune system, which ultimately orchestrates the type‐2 immune response. Furthermore, it sheds light on how peripheral signals are integrated within the central nervous system to coordinate hallmark features of allergic reactions. Drawing from this emerging evidence, we propose that atopy arises from a dysregulated neuroimmune circuit.
3D printing of ceramics: Advantages, challenges, applications, and perspectives
Authors: Bose Susmita , Akdogan Enver Koray , Balla Vamsi K. , Ciliveri Sushant , Colombo Paolo , Franchin Giorgia , Ku Nicholas , Kushram Priya , Niu Fangyong , Pelz Joshua , Rosenberger Andrew , Safari Ahmad , Seeley Zachary , Trice Rodney W. , Vargas‐Gonzalez Lionel , Youngblood Jeffrey P. , Bandyopadhyay Amit
Published: August 2024

3D printing (3DP) technologies have transformed the processing of advanced ceramics for small‐scale and custom designs during the past three decades. Simple and complex parts are designed and manufactured using 3DP technologies for structural, piezoelectric, and biomedical applications. Manufacturing simple or complex geometries or one‐of‐a‐kind components without part‐specific tooling saves significant time and creates new applications for advanced ceramic materials. Although development and innovations in 3DP of ceramics are far behind compared with metals or polymers, with the availability of different commercial machines in recent years for 3DP of ceramics, exponential growth is expected in this field in the coming decade. This article details various 3DP technologies for advanced ceramic materials, their advantages and challenges for manufacturing parts for various applications, and perspectives on future directions. We envision this work will be helpful to advanced ceramic researchers in industry and academia who are using different 3DP processes in the coming days.
Care quality and safety in long‐term aged care settings: A systematic review and narrative analysis of missed care measurements
Authors: Wang Xinxia , Rihari‐Thomas John , Bail Kasia , Bala Nina , Traynor Victoria
Published: August 2024

Aim

To critically evaluate missed care measurement approaches and their application in long‐term aged care (LTAC) settings.

Design

Systematic review using Tawfik's guideline.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL and ProQuest were searched. Supplemental searching was from reference lists of retrieved records, first authors' ORCID homepages and Google advanced search for grey literature. Search limitations were English language, published between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2022.

Review Method

COVIDENCE was utilized for screening, data extraction and quality appraisal. JBI Critical Appraisal Tools and COSMIN Risk of Bias Tool were used for quality appraisal. Data were summarized and synthesized using narrative analysis.

Results

Twenty‐four publications across 11 regions were included, with two principal methods of missed care measurement: modified standard scales and tailored specific approaches. They were applied inconsistently and generated diverse measurement outcomes. There were challenges even with the most commonly used tool, the BERNCA‐NH, including absence of high‐quality verification through comparative analysis against an established ‘gold standard’, reliance on self‐administration, incomplete assessment of constructs and inadequate exploration of psychometric properties.

Conclusion

Globally, there are deficiencies in the effectiveness and comprehensiveness of the instruments measuring missed care in LTAC settings. Further research on theoretical and practical perspectives is required.

Implications

Findings highlighted a critical need to establish a standardized, validated approach to measure missed care in LTAC settings. This review calls for collaborative efforts by researchers, clinical staff and policymakers to develop and implement evidence‐based practices as a way of safeguarding the well‐being of older clients living in LTAC settings.

Impact

Measurements of missed care in LTAC settings rely on adapting acute care tools. There is a critical gap in measuring missed care in LTAC settings. Developing a new tool could improve care quality and safety in LTAC settings globally.

Reporting Method

Adhered to PRISMA guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Interdisciplinary Delphi study by PROSEC North America: Recommendations on single indirect restorations made from ceramic and nonmetallic biomaterials for posterior teeth
Authors: Eggmann Florin , Orta Amelia L. , Abdulmajeed Awab , Att Wael , Beuer Florian , Bergler Michael , Blatz Markus B. , Brief Jakob , Castro Victor E. , Cooper Lyndon F. , Han Sean , Ortiz Miguel A. , Paravina Rade D. , Pizzi Peter , Tholey Michael J. , Conejo Julián
Published: August 2024

Objective

This article puts forward consensus recommendations from PROSEC North America regarding single indirect restorations made from ceramic and nonmetallic biomaterials in posterior teeth.

Overview

The consensus process involved a multidisciplinary panel and three consensus workshops. A systematic literature review was conducted across five databases to gather evidence. The recommendations, informed by findings from systematic reviews and formulated based on a two‐phase e‐Delphi survey, emphasize a comprehensive treatment strategy that includes noninvasive measures alongside restorative interventions for managing dental caries and tooth wear. The recommendations advocate for selecting between direct and indirect restorations on a case‐by‐case basis, favoring inlays and onlays over crowns to align with minimally invasive dentistry principles. The recommendations highlight the critical role of selecting restorative biomaterials based on clinical performance, esthetic properties, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. They emphasize the importance of precision in restorative procedures, including tooth preparation, impression taking, contamination control, and luting. Regular follow‐up and maintenance tailored to individual patient needs are crucial for the longevity of ceramic and nonmetallic restorations.

Conclusions

These PROSEC recommendations provide a framework for dental practitioners to deliver high‐quality restorative care, advocating for personalized treatment planning and minimally invasive approaches to optimize oral health outcomes.

Clinical Significance

The PROSEC North America recommendations highlight the importance of minimally invasive techniques in posterior tooth restorations using ceramic and non‐metallic biomaterials. These principles prioritize tooth structure conservation and personalized treatment planning, essential for enhancing clinical outcomes and long‐term oral health.
Vaccine patterns among older adults with Guillain–Barré syndrome and matched comparators, 2006–2019
Authors: Eiffert Samantha R. , Kinlaw Alan C. , Sleath Betsy L. , Thorpe Carolyn T. , Traub Rebecca , Raman Sudha R. , Stürmer Til
Published: August 2024

Background

Some vaccines have a small risk of triggering Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS), an autoimmune disorder where nerve damage leads to paralysis. There is a CDC precaution for patients whose GBS was associated with an influenza or tetanus toxoid‐containing vaccine (GBS occurring within 42 days following vaccination).

Methods

We described vaccine patterns before and after a GBS diagnosis with a matched cohort design in a 20% random sample of fee‐for‐service Medicare enrollees. We defined the index date as an ICD‐9‐CM or ICD‐10‐CM GBS diagnosis code in the primary position of an inpatient claim. We matched each GBS patient to five non‐GBS comparators on sex, exact age, racial and ethnic category, state of residence and the month of preventive health visits during baseline; used weighting to balance covariates; and measured frequency of vaccines received per 100 people during year before and after the index date using the weighted mean cumulative count (wMCC).

Results

We identified 1567 patients with a GBS diagnosis with at least 1 year of prior continuous enrollment in Medicare A and B that matched to five comparators each. The wMCCs in the 1 year before the index date were similar for both groups, with a wMCC of 74 vaccines/100 people in the GBS group (95% CI 71, 77). Within 1 year after the index date, patients with GBS had received 26 vaccines/100 people (95% CI 23, 28), which was 41 fewer vaccines than matched non‐GBS comparators (95% CI −44, −38). Among GBS patients, 11% were diagnosed with GBS within 42 days after a vaccine.

Conclusions

GBS diagnosis has a strong impact on reducing subsequent vaccination even though there is no warning or precaution about future vaccines for most patients diagnosed with GBS. These data suggest discordance between clinical practice and current vaccine recommendations.
STOP1 regulates CCX1‐mediated Ca2+ homeostasis for plant adaptation to Ca2+ deprivation
Authors: Tian Wen Hao , Cai Wen Yan , Zhu Chun Quan , Kong Ya Li , Cao Xiao Chuang , Zhu Lian Feng , Ye Jia Yuan , Zhang Jun Hua , Zheng Shao Jian
Published: August 2024

Calcium (Ca) is essential for plant growth and stress adaptation, yet its availability is often limited in acidic soils, posing a major threat to crop production. Understanding the intricate mechanisms orchestrating plant adaptation to Ca deficiency remains elusive. Here, we show that the Ca deficiency‐enhanced nuclear accumulation of the transcription factor SENSITIVE TO PROTON RHIZOTOXICITY 1 (STOP1) in Arabidopsis thaliana confers tolerance to Ca deprivation, with the global transcriptional responses triggered by Ca deprivation largely impaired in the stop1 mutant. Notably, STOP1 activates the Ca deprivation‐induced expression of CATION/Ca2+ EXCHANGER 1 (CCX1) by directly binding to its promoter region, which facilitates Ca2+ efflux from endoplasmic reticulum to cytosol to maintain Ca homeostasis. Consequently, the constitutive expression of CCX1 in the stop1 mutant partially rescues the Ca deficiency phenotype by increasing Ca content in the shoots. These findings uncover the pivotal role of the STOP1‐CCX1 axis in plant adaptation to low Ca, offering alternative manipulating strategies to improve plant Ca nutrition in acidic soils and extending our understanding of the multifaceted role of STOP1.
Mapping wrist motion: 3D CT analysis after scapholunate ligament transection
Authors: Promny Dominik , Gill Dominik , Lyer Stefan , Alexiou Christoph , Buder Thomas , Neuhuber Winfried , Horch Raymund E. , Arkudas Andreas
Published: August 2024

The injury of the scapholunate (SL) ligament is common in wrist traumas leading to pain and reduced wrist function. The wrist's unique joint design and possible underlying theories as the carpal row theory were subject to earlier investigations studying wrist kinematics. Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of how SL ligament injuries affect wrist biomechanics is still lacking. Through a quantitative analysis of carpal bone motion patterns, we evaluated the impact on wrist kinematics occurring after SL ligament injury. We conducted a study using computer tomography imaging to analyse wrist kinematics after SL ligament transection in 21 fresh‐frozen anatomical specimens. The collected data were then transformed into 3D models, employing both standardized global and object coordinate systems. The study encompassed the evaluation of rotation and translation for each individual carpal bone, as well as the ulna, and all metacarpal bones in reference to the radius. The study showed a significant increase in rotation towards palmar (p < 0.01), particularly notable for the scaphoid, following transection of the SL ligament during palmar flexion. Ulnar deviation did not significantly affect rotation or translation, and radial deviation also showed no significant changes in rotation or translation. The study highlights the significance of the SL ligament in wrist kinematics, revealing that SL ligament tears lead to changes in wrist motion. While we observed significant rotational changes for the scaphoid, other carpal bones showed less pronounced alterations, emphasizing the complexity of wrist biomechanics.
Upper blepharoplasty in Asian population: A novel technique based on functional zoning and dynamic reconstruction with anatomical structure
Authors: Zhang Tiran , Liu Liqiang , Fan Jincai , Tian Jia , Yang Zengjie , Gan Cheng , Jiao Hu , Song Yingjie
Published: August 2024

Background

Double eyelid blepharoplasty is the most popular cosmetic operation in Asian population. Various surgical techniques have been developed in order to create dynamic eyelid folds with natural‐looking in recent years, but postoperative complications like so‐called sausage‐like appearance have not been resolved completely.

Aims

To create natural‐looking dynamic folds, we propose a new method imitating the original anatomical structure of congenital double‐eyelid.

Patients and Methods

Eighty‐six patients who underwent the double‐eyelid surgery from June 1st, 2018 to October 31st, 2020 were included in this retrospective study, including 10 males and 76 females, aged 18–39 years (mean 27.4 ± 5.6 years). All the included patients received double eyelid surgery performed by the same senior doctor, using the pretarsal orbicularis oculi muscle‐releasing technique. Patient Reported Outcome Measures questionnaires were administrated to assess the severity of scarring, pain, and asymmetry, as well as functional and appearance issues. Surgical outcome was assessed through objective and subjective evaluation forms (PROM and patient satisfaction rate).

Results

Among the 86 patients, 5 were lost during the follow‐up period. The absolute number of enrolled patients is 81. 91.36% of the enrolled patients reported minimal or non‐visible scarring at the double eyelid incision. As to functional and appearance issues, the main problem were asymmetry (12.35%) and the narrowing of the supratarsal crease width (8.64%). No supratarsal depression and “sausage‐like” appearance occurred in this study. 95.1% of patients reported either good or excellent outcome (mean score: 108 of 120) based on analysis of PROM results, and 96.3% of patients reported either high or very high satisfaction (mean score: 96 of 120) for the patient satisfaction assessment.

Conclusions

This new surgical method of double‐eyelid blepharoplasty provides comparatively safe and effective results.
AI assistance in aesthetic medicine–A consensus on objective medical standards
Authors: Frank Konstantin , Day Doris , Few Julius , Chiranjiv Chhabra , Gold Michael , Sattler Sonja , Kerscher Martina , Knoedler Leonard , Filippo Alexandre , Rzany Berthold , Cotofana Sebastian , Fabi Sabrina , Fritz Klaus , Peng Peter , Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima , Pooth Rainer , Huang Patrick
Published: August 2024

Background

Aesthetic medicine has traditionally relied on clinical scales for the objective assessment of baseline appearance and treatment outcomes. However, the scales focus on limited aesthetic areas mostly and subjective interpretation inherent in these scales can lead to variability, which undermines standardization efforts.

Objective

The consensus meeting aimed to establish guidelines for AI application in aesthetic medicine.

Materials and Methods

In February 2024, the AI Consensus Group, comprising international experts in various specialties, convened to deliberate on AI in aesthetic medicine. The methodology included a pre‐consensus survey and an iterative consensus process during the meeting.

Results

AI's implementation in Aesthetic Medicine has achieved full consensus for enhancing patient assessment and consultation, ensuring standardized care. AI's role in preventing overcorrection is recognized, alongside the need for validated objective facial assessments. Emphasis is placed on comprehensive facial aesthetic evaluations using indices such as the Facial Aesthetic Index (FAI), Facial Youth Index (FYI), and Skin Quality Index (SQI). These evaluations are to be gender‐specific and exclude makeup‐covered skin at baseline. Age and gender, as well as patients' ancestral roots, are to be considered integral to the AI assessment process, underlining the move towards personalized, precise treatments.

Conclusion

The consensus meeting established that AI will significantly improve aesthetic medicine by standardizing patient assessments and consultations, with a strong endorsement for preventing overcorrection and advocating for validated, objective facial assessments. Utilizing indices such as the FAI, FYI, and SQI allows for gender‐specific, age adjusted evaluations and insists on a makeup‐free baseline for accuracy.
Exploring the influencing factors on acne, melasma, and rosacea: A case–control study in China
Authors: Xia Qingyue , Wang Zhaopeng , Tang Yingdan , Luan Xingbao , Deng Tianxurun , Fan Lipan , Wu Hongjin , Li Yuan , Cui Xiaomei , Zhao Yang , Luo Dan
Published: August 2024

Background

The severity and treatment response of acne, melasma, and rosacea may be influenced by various currently unclear internal and external factors. This study aimed to provide evidence to the influencing factors for the mentioned conditions through a real‐world case–control study.

Methods

An online survey consisting of 60 questions was implemented, collecting information on demographics, socioeconomics, genetic factors, lifestyle habits, environmental exposures, and skin care behaviors. Then we constructed univariate and multivariate logistic regressions. Furthermore, we analyzed the dose–response relationship between exposure and outcome.

Results

A total of 399 individuals, including 94 acne patients, 107 melasma patients, and 91 rosacea patients were included. Acne and melasma were positively correlated with screen time (acne: odds ratio [OR]: 2.24, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25–4.02; melasma: OR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.09–2.31), while exercise exerted a protective effect on both acne (OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.13–0.77) and melasma (OR: 0.42, 95% CI: 0.22–0.80) in a dose–response relationship. In addition, males were associated with an elevated risk of acne (OR: 6.62, 95% CI: 1.01–43.26). Aging (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.07–1.24) and irregular bowel movements (OR: 2.99, 95% CI: 1.11–8.08) were independent risk factors for melasma. Rosacea was positively associated with BMI (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 1.01–1.35).

Conclusion

In our study, we highlighted exercise as an independent protective factor for both acne and melasma in a dose–response trend. Inversely, extended use of electronic equipment was independently associated with higher risks of acne and melasma. Rosacea, however, was more likely to be related with BMI.
Decreased incidence of peritoneal dialysis‐associated peritonitis in young children
Authors: Park Peong Gang , Ahn Yo Han , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il‐Soo
Published: August 2024

Aim

Peritonitis is the most common complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). This study aimed to investigate changes in the incidence, risk factors, microbiology, and clinical outcomes of PD‐associated peritonitis in the past decades.

Methods

This was a retrospective study that included children who initiated chronic PD at our institution between 2000 and 2017. The patients were divided into two groups according to the year of initiation: those who initiated PD between 2000 and 2008 and those who initiated PD between 2009 and 2017. The incidence and characteristics of peritonitis were compared between the groups.

Results

A total of 184 patients with a median age of 10.2 years were included in this study. Of the patients, 92 experienced 210 episodes of peritonitis. The incidence rate of peritonitis decreased from 0.35 to 0.21 episodes/patient year during the study period (P = 0.001). During the 2000–2008 period, the 2‐year peritonitis‐free survival rate was significantly lower for patients under 2 years of age than for the other age groups (P = 0.004), whereas this was not observed during the 2009–2017 period. The multivariable Cox proportional hazard model showed that the <2 years age group had a significantly higher risk of developing peritonitis in the 2000–2008 period. However, this was not evident in the 2009–2017 period.

Conclusions

The incidence of PD‐associated peritonitis decreased, particularly in children under 2 years of age. Thus, younger age may not be a risk factor for PD‐associated peritonitis.
Underutilized Techniques and Underrepresented Samples in Educational Neuroscience Research: An Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Martinez‐Lincoln Amanda , Burgess Andrea N. , Cutting Laurie E.
Published: August 2024

As the field of educational neuroscience continues to expand, novel neuroscientific methods are met with both exhilaration and concern. Further, students who experience the greatest educational disparities (e.g., students from diverse linguistic backgrounds) are often the least represented in educational research, calling into question the generalizability of results. The current special issue highlights the importance of the utilization of novel experimental methods and inclusion of underrepresented samples in educational neuroscience. In this introduction to the special issue, we emphasize the importance of these studies in moving the field forward. We also provide a review of the included studies, as well as summarize the implications of these included studies to in the field of educational neuroscience.
Vocal tract dynamics shape the formant structure of conditioned vocalizations in a harbor seal
Authors: Goncharova Maria , Jadoul Yannick , Reichmuth Colleen , Fitch W. Tecumseh , Ravignani Andrea
Published: August 2024

Formants, or resonance frequencies of the upper vocal tract, are an essential part of acoustic communication. Articulatory gestures—such as jaw, tongue, lip, and soft palate movements—shape formant structure in human vocalizations, but little is known about how nonhuman mammals use those gestures to modify formant frequencies. Here, we report a case study with an adult male harbor seal trained to produce an arbitrary vocalization composed of multiple repetitions of the sound wa. We analyzed jaw movements frame‐by‐frame and matched them to the tracked formant modulation in the corresponding vocalizations. We found that the jaw opening angle was strongly correlated with the first (F1) and, to a lesser degree, with the second formant (F2). F2 variation was better explained by the jaw angle opening when the seal was lying on his back rather than on the belly, which might derive from soft tissue displacement due to gravity. These results show that harbor seals share some common articulatory traits with humans, where the F1 depends more on the jaw position than F2. We propose further in vivo investigations of seals to further test the role of the tongue on formant modulation in mammalian sound production.
Capillary adhesion of stick insects
Authors: Amador Guillermo J. , Klaassen van Oorschot Brett , Sen Uddalok , Karman Benjamin , Leenders Rutger
Published: August 2024

Scientific progress within the last few decades has revealed the functional morphology of an insect's sticky footpads—a compliant pad that secretes thin liquid films. However, the physico‐chemical mechanisms underlying their adhesion remain elusive. Here, we explore these underlying mechanisms by simultaneously measuring adhesive force and contact geometry of the adhesive footpads of live, tethered Indian stick insects, Carausius morosus, spanning more than two orders of magnitude in body mass. We find that the adhesive force we measure is similar to the previous measurements that use a centrifuge. Our measurements afford us the opportunity to directly probe the adhesive stress in vivo and use existing theory on capillary adhesion to predict the surface tension of the secreted liquid and compare it to previous assumptions. From our predictions, we find that the surface tension required to generate the adhesive stresses we observed ranges between 0.68 and 12 mN . The low surface tension of the liquid would enhance the wetting of the stick insect's footpads and promote their ability to conform to various substrates. Our insights may inform the biomimetic design of capillary‐based, reversible adhesives and motivate future studies on the physico‐chemical properties of the secreted liquid.
Histological characterization of downy mildew infection in wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia)
Authors: Pereira Ana L. , Scotti‐Campos Paula , Coelho Paula S.
Published: August 2024

Wild rocket downy mildew (DM), caused by oomycete Hyaloperonospora sp., is a widely spread disease reducing crop production and quality. New productive wild rocket varieties resistant to DM are crucial to control disease and ensure high quality leaves. A histological characterization of Hyaloperonospora sp. infection was performed in 11 wild rocket (Diplotaxis tenuifolia) accessions with contrasting DM responses (R, resistant; PR, partially resistant; S, susceptible). Samples of infected cotyledons, first and second leaves of 14‐day‐old seedlings were collected at 3, 6, 9, 21 and 24 h post‐inoculation (hpi) and 7 days post‐inoculation (dpi) and stained for appressoria and haustoria observation and tissue necrosis evaluation. Occurrence of appressoria on host surfaces was higher in leaves compared with cotyledons but unrelated with DM resistance response. Haustoria growth in mycelium was delayed in R accessions from 3 hpi, and signs of cell hypersensitivity reaction were observed at 9 hpi. At 24 hpi, necrotic spots limited pathogen growth in resistant accessions, whilst mycelium invaded larger mesophyll areas and produced more haustoria in susceptible ones. At 7 dpi, sporulation was heavy in S, restricted to droplet deposition sites in PR, and did not occur in R hosts. A rapid response of R accessions resulted in slower mycelium growth and longer infection periods. These traits have important agronomic value and should be considered in germplasm selection for breeding programmes aimed at crop protection. A better understanding of the host response to DM infection will allow selection of more suitable wild rocket accessions in future breeding programmes.
Melatonin alleviates UV‐B stress and enhances phenolic biosynthesis in rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) callus
Authors: Zhao Zhuowen , Liu Siyu , Yun Cholil , Liu Jianing , Yao Liuyang , Wang Huimei
Published: August 2024

Although used in in vitro culture to boost secondary metabolite production, UV‐B radiation can seriously affect plant growth if not properly dosed. Rosemary callus can be used as an important source of effective ingredients in the food and medicine industry. To balance the positive and negative effects of UV‐B on rosmary callus, this study investigated the effects of melatonin on rosemary callus under UV‐B radiation. The results showed that melatonin improved rosemary callus growth, with fresh weight and dry weight increased by 15.81% and 8.30%, respectively. The addition of 100 μM melatonin increased antioxidant enzyme activity and NO content in rosemary callus. At the same time, melatonin also significantly reduced membrane lipid damage and H2O2 accumulation in rosemary callus under UV‐B stress, with malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2 contents reduced by 13.03% and 14.55%, respectively. In addition, melatonin increased the total phenol and rosmarinic acid contents in rosemary callus by 19% and 54%, respectively. Melatonin significantly improved the antioxidant activity of the extracts from rosemary callus. These results suggest that exogenous melatonin can alleviate the adverse effects of UV‐B stress on rosemary callus by promoting NO accumulation while further enhancing phenolic accumulation and biological activity.
Anti‐Müllerian hormone as a promising novel biomarker for litter size in Romanov sheep
Authors: Turgut Ali Osman , Koca Davut
Published: August 2024

Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a hormone produced by growing preantral and antral follicles of the ovary. AMH is accepted as an important biomarker for fertility and superovulation parameters in livestock species. This study aimed to evaluate changes in serum AMH level in the oestrous cycle, repeatability of AMH, the effect of age on serum AMH level and the effects of AMH on litter size in Romanov sheep. In the study, a total of 36 Romanov sheep were used as animal material. First blood samples (0th day) were collected from 36 ewes to evaluate AMH and progesterone levels. Second blood samples were collected randomly from 20 ewes 9 days after first sampling to compare AMH levels at two different periods of the oestrous cycle in Romanov ewes. The ewes were categorized into three groups as low, medium and high AMH based on their first AMH levels. Results indicated that serum AMH level did not change during the oestrous and dioestrous phases of the oestrous cycle and two random time points of the oestrous cycle (p > .05). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that there is a high (r = .95) and significant (p < .001) correlation between AMH levels at the 0th (AMH‐1) and 9th (AMH‐2) days. The effect of AMH level on litter size was found to be significant. Litter size was significantly higher in the high AMH group than in the low AMH group (p < .05). In addition, the age of ewes did not affect serum AMH levels (p > .05). ROC analysis indicates that AMH cut‐off value >320 pg/mL with 70% sensitivity and 100% specificity can be used for litter size in Romanov ewes. In conclusion, AMH is highly repeatable and its serum AMH level did not change during the oestrous cycle in Romanov sheep. In addition, AMH affects litter size and can be reliably used as a marker for litter size in Romanov sheep.