bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of locomotor behavior and head diurnal transcriptome regulation by PERIOD and CRY2 in the diamondback moth
Authors: Chen Wenfeng , Wang Danfeng , Yu Lingqi , Zhong Wenmiao , Yuan Yao , Yang Guang
Published: February 2024

Earth's rotation shapes a 24‐h cycle, governing circadian rhythms in organisms. In mammals, the core clock genes, CLOCK and BMAL1, are regulated by PERIODs (PERs) and CRYPTOCHROMEs (CRYs), but their roles remain unclear in the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella. To explore this, we studied P. xylostella, which possesses a simplified circadian system compared to mammals. In P. xylostella, we observed rhythmic expressions of the Pxper and Pxcry2 genes in their heads, with differing phases. In vitro experiments revealed that PxCRY2 repressed monarch butterfly CLK:BMAL1 transcriptional activation, while PxPER and other CRY‐like proteins did not. However, PxPER showed an inhibitory effect on PxCLK/PxCYCLE. Using CRISPR/Cas9, we individually and in combination knocked out Pxper and Pxcry2, then conducted gene function studies and circadian transcriptome sequencing. Loss of either Pxper or Pxcry2 eliminated the activity peak after lights‐off in light–dark cycles, and Pxcry2 loss reduced overall activity. Pxcry2 was crucial for maintaining endogenous rhythms in constant darkness. Under light–dark conditions, 1 098 genes exhibited rhythmic expression in wild‐type P. xylostella heads, with 749 relying on Pxper and Pxcry2 for their rhythms. Most core clock genes lost their rhythmicity in Pxper and Pxcry2 mutants, while Pxcry2 sustained rhythmic expression, albeit with reduced amplitude and altered phase. Additionally, rhythmic genes were linked to biological processes like the spliceosome and Toll signaling pathway, with these rhythms depending on Pxper or Pxcry2 function. In summary, our study unveils differences in circadian rhythm regulation by Pxper and Pxcry2 in P. xylostella. This provides a valuable model for understanding circadian clock regulation in nocturnal animals.
Inhibition of 26S proteasome activity by α‐synuclein is mediated by the proteasomal chaperone Rpn14/PAAF1
Authors: Galka Dajana , Ali Tariq T. , Bast Alexander , Niederleithinger Marie , Gerhardt Ellen , Motosugi Ryo , Sakata Eri , Knop Michael , Outeiro Tiago F. , Popova Blagovesta , Braus Gerhard H.
Published: February 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by aggregation of α‐synuclein (α‐syn) into protein inclusions in degenerating brains. Increasing amounts of aggregated α‐syn species indicate significant perturbation of cellular proteostasis. Altered proteostasis depends on α‐syn protein levels and the impact of α‐syn on other components of the proteostasis network. Budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae was used as eukaryotic reference organism to study the consequences of α‐syn expression on protein dynamics. To address this, we investigated the impact of overexpression of α‐syn and S129A variant on the abundance and stability of most yeast proteins using a genome‐wide yeast library and a tandem fluorescent protein timer (tFT) reporter as a measure for protein stability. This revealed that the stability of in total 377 cellular proteins was altered by α‐syn expression, and that the impact on protein stability was significantly enhanced by phosphorylation at Ser129 (pS129). The proteasome assembly chaperone Rpn14 was identified as one of the top candidates for increased protein stability by expression of pS129 α‐syn. Elevated levels of Rpn14 enhanced the growth inhibition by α‐syn and the accumulation of ubiquitin conjugates in the cell. We found that Rpn14 interacts physically with α‐syn and stabilizes pS129 α‐syn. The expression of α‐syn along with elevated levels of Rpn14 or its human counterpart PAAF1 reduced the proteasome activity in yeast and in human cells, supporting that pS129 α‐syn negatively affects the 26S proteasome through Rpn14. This comprehensive study into the alternations of protein homeostasis highlights the critical role of the Rpn14/PAAF1 in α‐syn‐mediated proteasome dysfunction.
Occupancy and detectability of a critically threatened lizard endemic from sandy coastal plains areas of Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil
Authors: Proença‐Gomes Júlio C. F. , Pereira‐Ribeiro Juliane , Siqueira Carla C. , Santos‐Pereira Manuela , Almeida‐Santos Marlon , Rocha Carlos Frederico D.
Published: February 2024

Liolaemus lutzaeis a small liolaemid lizard critically endangered and restricted to coastal restinga (salty sand dune habitats covered by herbaceous and shrubby vegetation by seaside) habitats of the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. This lizard has been predicted to be extinct by 2080. We studied some of the environmental factors that influence occupancy by the species and detectability by the observer, in addition to investigating which populations remain occupying the areas along its original geographical distribution. We sampled 25 different beach habitats of restinga areas in the state, by 100‐meter replicates of linear transects. The estimated probability of occupancy was 69% (0.69 ± 0.05), and the estimated detectability was 50% (0.50 ± 0.03). The detection model with the best fit contained only the air temperature variable. Occupancy was best described by four variables: number of disturbance sources on the transect, vegetation cover in a 50‐meter buffer, exposed sand cover substrate in a 20‐meter buffer, and built‐up area cover in a 50‐meter buffer. No observations ofL. lutzae were made in eight of the 25 restinga areas sampled along the original distribution of the lizard. In seven of these areas, the species had its populations extirpated many years ago, based on the 2007/2008 monitoring data. Conversely, in one area where the species was frequently observed during field surveys and different ecological studies on the species made in last decade, it was not recorded in the present study, indicating a possible recent population extirpation. We recommend that conservation measures be urgently implemented to mitigate anthropogenic impacts on the areas of the remaining populations of this lizard throughout its range, especially preserving the structure and functions of the remaining vegetation of beach habitat along restinga areas.
Biallelic hexokinase 1 (HK1) variants causative of non‐spherocytic haemolytic anaemia: A case series with emphasis on the HK1 promoter variant and literature review
Authors: Ukonmaanaho Elli‐Maija , Dell'Anna Silvia , Hakonen Anna , Wartiovaara‐Kautto Ulla , Kakko Sakari , Rab Minke A. E. , van Oirschot Brigitte , Kraatari‐Tiri Minna , van Wijk Richard , Rahikkala Elisa
Published: February 2024

The hexokinase (HK) enzyme plays a key role in red blood cell energy production. Hereditary non‐spherocytic haemolytic anaemia (HNSHA) caused by HK deficiency is a rare disorder with only 12 different disease‐associated variants identified. Here, we describe the clinical features and genotypes of four previously unreported patients with hexokinase 1 (HK1)‐related HNSHA, yielding two novel truncating HK1 variants. The patients' phenotypes varied from mild chronic haemolytic anaemia to severe infantile‐onset transfusion‐dependent anaemia. Three of the patients had mild haemolytic disease caused by the common HK1 promoter c.‐193A>G variant combined with an intragenic HK1 variant, emphasizing the importance of including this promoter variant in the haemolytic disease gene panels. HK activity was normal in a severely affected patient with a homozygous HK1 c.2599C>T, p.(His867Tyr) variant, but the affinity for ATP was reduced, hampering the HK function. In cases of HNSHA, kinetic studies should be considered in the functional studies of HK. We reviewed the literature of previously published patients to provide better insight into this rare disease and add to the understanding of genotype–phenotype correlation.
During the COVID‐19 pandemic 20 000 prostate cancer diagnoses were missed in England
Authors: Lemanska Agnieszka , Andrews Colm , Fisher Louis , Bacon Seb , Mehrkar Amir , Inglesby Peter , Davy Simon , Goldacre Ben , MacKenna Brian ,   The OpenSAFELY Collaborative, Walker Alex J.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To investigate the effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on prostate cancer incidence, prevalence, and mortality in England.

Patients and Methods

With the approval of NHS England and using the OpenSAFELY‐TPP dataset of 24 million patients, we undertook a cohort study of men diagnosed with prostate cancer. We visualised monthly rates in prostate cancer incidence, prevalence, and mortality per 100 000 adult men from January 2015 to July 2023. To assess the effect of the pandemic, we used generalised linear models and the pre‐pandemic data to predict the expected rates from March 2020 as if the pandemic had not occurred. The 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the predicted values were used to estimate the significance of the difference between the predicted and observed rates.

Results

In 2020, there was a drop in recorded incidence by 4772 (31%) cases (15 550 vs 20 322; 95% CI 19 241–21 403). In 2021, the incidence started to recover, and the drop was 3148 cases (18%, 17 950 vs 21 098; 95% CI 19 740–22 456). By 2022, the incidence returned to the levels that would be expected. During the pandemic, the age at diagnosis shifted towards older men. In 2020, the average age was 71.6 (95% CI 71.5–71.8) years, in 2021 it was 71.8 (95% CI 71.7–72.0) years as compared to 71.3 (95% CI 71.1–71.4) years in 2019.

Conclusions

Given that our dataset represents 40% of the population, we estimate that proportionally the pandemic led to 20 000 missed prostate cancer diagnoses in England alone. The increase in incidence recorded in 2023 was not enough to account for the missed cases. The prevalence of prostate cancer remained lower throughout the pandemic than expected. As the recovery efforts continue, healthcare should focus on finding the men who were affected. The research should focus on investigating the potential harms to men diagnosed at older age.
Socio‐familial environment influence on cognitive and language development in very preterm children
Authors: De Leeuw Stéphanie , Delens Gilda , Vanden Brande Laura , Henrion Elisabeth , Legros Ludovic
Published: February 2024

Background

Preterm children are at increased risk of cognitive and language delay compared with term‐born children. While many perinatal factors associated with prematurity are well established, there is limited research concerning the influence of the socio‐familial environment on the development of preterm children. This study aims to assess the relative impact of perinatal and socio‐familial risk factors on cognitive and language development at 2 years corrected age (CA).

Method

This retrospective cross‐sectional study included preterm infants with a gestational age <32 weeks and/or a birth weight <1500 g, who underwent neurodevelopmental assessment at 2 years CA. Cognitive and language scores were assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant–Toddler Development, third edition. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a multivariable model to examine the relationship between developmental delays and perinatal and socio‐familial factors.

Result

The prevalence of language delay was negatively associated with daycare attendance (aOR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.07–0.85, p < 0.05) and high maternal educational levels (aOR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.05–0.93, p < 0.05) and positively associated with bilingual environments (aOR: 5.62, 95% CI: 1.46–24.3, p < 0.05). Perinatal and postnatal risk factors did not show a significant impact on cognitive or language development.

Conclusion

The development of language appears to be more influenced by the socio‐familial environment than by early perinatal and postnatal factors associated with prematurity. These findings highlight the importance of considering socio‐familial factors in the early identification and intervention of language delay among preterm children.
Long‐term occupancy monitoring reveals value of moderate disturbance for an open‐habitat specialist, the Stephens' kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensi)
Authors: Brehme Cheryl S. , Gould Philip R. , Clark Denise R. , Fisher Robert N.
Published: February 2024

For species of conservation concern, long‐term monitoring is vital to properly characterize changes in population distribution and abundance over time. In addition, long‐term monitoring guides management decisions by informing and evaluating the efficacy of management actions. A long‐term monitoring initiative for the federally threatened Stephens' Kangaroo rat (Dipodomys stephensi, SKR) was established in 2005, across 628 hectares within Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton (MCBCP), San Diego, California, USA. From 2005 to 2018, we tracked trends in area occupied by SKR, trends in relative SKR densities within occupied habitat, and modeled probabilities of SKR occupancy, colonization, extinction, with habitat, climate, and disturbance covariates. Area occupied by SKR increased almost 2‐fold from 2005 to 2018 on MCBCP, while density in occupied habitat increased almost 3‐fold. Increased area occupied was correlated with increases in estimated density among years, indicating SKR population growth occurs by expansion into suitable habitat patches, as well as increases in numbers within occupied habitat. SKR occupancy was positively associated with gentle slopes (<10%) and moderate open ground (40–80%) and forb cover (>40%). They were more likely to colonize previously unoccupied habitat when there were moderate levels of open ground (40–80%) and low shrub cover (<20%), while more likely to go locally extinct in areas with high slopes (>10%), less open ground (<20%), and increased non‐native grass cover (>40%). Additionally, probabilities of SKR occupancy and colonization were higher in areas with moderate levels of disturbance, which was positively associated with open ground and forb cover. We conclude that long‐term occupancy and density monitoring is effective in informing status and trends of spatially dynamic species and that moderate habitat‐based disturbance is compatible with the management of SKR.
Messy databases: Recognizing transcribers as experts and engaging amateur naturalists in digitization
Authors: Smith Nathan Edward Charles
Published: February 2024

Amateur naturalists and natural history societies are abundant throughout the UK, and indeed throughout the globe, and have intimate relationships with the museum sector. Importantly, amateur naturalists and natural history societies often possess expertise in fields underserved by museums, such as taxonomy or the local history of natural history. The amateur naturalist, in the context of the museum, is simultaneously volunteer and expert and this dichotomy can lead to tension in the naturalist‐museum professional relationship. The rise of mass‐participation citizen science and digitization projects are likely to further enflame this tension as naturalists can feel marginalized as their identifier of “volunteer” subsumes that of “expert.” This paper recommends best practice when working with amateur naturalists and natural history societies. It examines the different value systems and priorities broadly held by museum professionals and naturalists, with a particular focus on digitization. This paper also suggests how the museum field can work toward more equitable knowledge building and sharing practices when working with naturalists and other expert‐volunteers. In particular, it puts forward the concept of messy databases as a way to meaningfully engage with volunteer‐experts.
Managing paediatric convulsive status epilepticus: How useful is intravenous clonazepam?
Authors: Mifsud Janet
Published: February 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Colmard et al. on pages 1053–1061 of this issue.
Mapping the structure and dynamics of global high‐tech aerospace trade
Authors: Li Xiya , Du Debin , Xia Qifan , Li Tingzhu
Published: February 2024

The aerospace industry is a fast‐growing high‐tech sector related to the national economic lifeline and national defence security. In the context of prosperous cooperation and fierce competition between countries, a multi‐layered global aerospace network, from production to trade, has been formed. However, the high‐tech aerospace trade structure and its spatial pattern as the mirror of the industry lack systematic research. This study constructs global high‐tech aerospace trade networks to review the trade dynamics, identify the core countries and explore the regional structure and geographical characteristics. Different high‐tech aerospace segments show varying evolutionary characteristics, with exports more concentrated than imports. The United States and Western Europe dominate the import and export market in all categories of high‐tech aerospace trade, especially in high‐end segment, holding organizational authority in the community structure. Although Asia is rising rapidly in some areas, it still has a long way to go to become a global hub.
Impact of electrical muscle stimulation on serum myostatin level and maintenance of skeletal muscle mass in patients undergoing living‐donor liver transplantation: Single‐center controlled trial
Authors: Tsutsui Yuriko , Itoh Shinji , Toshima Takeo , Yoshio Sachiyo , Yoshiya Shohei , Izumi Takuma , Iseda Norifumi , Toshida Katsuya , Nakayama Yuki , Ishikawa Takuma , Kosai‐Fujimoto Yukiko , Takeishi Kazuki , Yoshizumi Tomoharu
Published: February 2024

Aim

Sarcopenia is reportedly associated with a poor prognosis in patients who undergo living‐donor liver transplantation (LDLT), most of whom are not able to tolerate muscle strengthening exercise training. Myostatin is one of the myokines and a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. The clinical feasibility of an electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) system, which exercises muscle automatically by direct electrical stimulation, has been reported. In this study, we aimed to determine the effect of perioperative application of SIXPAD, which is a type of EMS system, with reference to the serum myostatin and sarcopenia in LDLT patients.

Method

Thirty patients scheduled for LDLT were divided into a SIXPAD group (n = 16) and a control group (n = 14). In the SIXPAD group, EMS was applied to the thighs twice daily. The serum myostatin was measured in samples obtained before use of SIXPAD and immediately before LDLT. The psoas muscle index (PMI) at the level of the third lumbar vertebra and the quadriceps muscle area were compared on computed tomography images before use of SIXPAD and 1 month after LDLT.

Results

The preoperative serum myostatin was found to be higher in LDLT patients than in healthy volunteers and EMS significantly reduced the serum myostatin. Electrical muscle stimulation prevented a postoperative reduction not only in the area of the quadriceps muscles but also in the PMI despite direct stimulation of the thigh muscles.

Conclusion

Stimulation of muscles by EMS decreases the serum myostatin and helps to maintain skeletal muscle in patients who have undergone LDLT.
Planetary ball milling induced piezocatalysis for dye degradation using Bi2VO5.5
Authors: Kumar Manish , Kebaili Imen , Boukhris Imed , Vaish Rahul
Published: February 2024

The mechanochemical ball milling process at 650°C for 5 h formed the single‐phase Bi2VO5.5 powder, which was tested as a catalyst for methylene blue (MB) dye degradation. X‐ray diffraction validated phase formation. A scanning electron microscope inspection verified the presence of grains with irregular shapes. Piezocatalytic MB dye degradation with a .4 g BV sample was ∼67% after 90 min in a ball mill and ∼49% after 180 min in an ultrasonicator. Utilizing a .4 g BV sample, the 90‐min investigation of piezocatalysis using a ball mill showed an 18% increase in degrading performance compared to the findings of the 180‐min study of piezocatalysis using ultrasonication. Ball mill employed piezocatalysis evaluation utilizing .4 g Bi2VO5.5 with 15 balls produces an excellent k value of .0109 min−1. Based on the results of a scavenger test, hole (h+) is the primary species in the ball mill‐induced piezocatalysis.
A prospective observational study validating the CET score as a screening tool in suspected DRESS syndrome
Authors: Singh Sukhdeep , Vinay Keshavamurthy , Bishnoi Anuradha , Parsad Davinder , Kumaran Muthu Sendhil
Published: February 2024

Background

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is an idiosyncratic severe cutaneous adverse reaction that may be potentially life‐threatening. Recently, a simple scoring system for the early screening of DRESS patients was derived by combining hsCRP levels, the eosinophil count, and the total body surface area (CET score). The objectives of this study were validating the CET score, and calculating its lead time advantage and cost‐benefits compared to RegiSCAR scoring.

Methods

This is a prospective observational case‐control study, where 110 consecutive patients diagnosed with drug‐induced maculopapular exanthema (MPE) were recruited during the 18 months of the study period. Patients were classified as cases (DRESS) and controls (MPE) using RegiSCAR score cut‐off 2 (possible DRESS). They were also simultaneously screened using the CET score, based on which patients were classified as positive or negative. They were subsequently followed up on Day 15 for a second comparison and assessment of lead time and at 3 and 6 weeks to evaluate clinical response.

Results

Seventy cases and 40 controls were recruited. At a cut‐off of >2.12, the CET score had a sensitivity of 94.3%, a specificity of 60%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 80.5%, and a negative predictive value (PPV) of 85.7%. The median delay in diagnosing DRESS using RegiSCAR was around 14.5 hours. There was a median cost benefit of 12.1 USD in favor of the CET score.

Conclusions

The CET score had good diagnostic performance in screening DRESS patients with a lead time of 14.5 hours and fewer costs incurred.
Micro‐level dynamics in digital transformation: Understanding work‐life role transitions
Authors: Mirbabaie Milad , Marx Julian
Published: February 2024

The transitions individuals make between roles are critical for navigating professional and private life domains. These role transitions involve physical and psychological movements between positions and statuses in social structures. Today, digital technologies are becoming increasingly pivotal in these transitions. However, neither existing theory on role transitions nor recent contributions to the digital transformation literature have unpacked the connection between digital technologies and role transitioning. Based on a qualitative inquiry involving knowledge workers from the Global South, we develop the concepts of role emancipation, role confinement, and role conflation and examine how these types of role transitioning relate to the capabilities of digital technologies. We find that digital technologies can introduce levels of rigidity or flexibility that, in turn, either solidify or soften the domain boundaries influencing work‐life role transitions in the context of digital transformation. We abstract these ideas into a theoretical model and chart a course for consolidating a ‘micro‐level of analysis frontier’ within digital transformation research.
Intrinsic and extrinsic contributions to energy storage performance in potassium sodium niobate–based ceramics
Authors: Xing Jie , Li Xu , Xu Duo , Chen Qifan , Gao Tingting , Tan Zhi , Zhu Jianguo
Published: February 2024

Both the intrinsic and extrinsic contributions to the high energy storage properties of (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3 were investigated herein by employing Bi(Mg2/3Ta1/3)O3 as a second component to synthesize novel environment‐friendly energy storage ceramics. The role of the second component was confirmed to reduce the intrinsic activation of electrons, which effectively improves the band gap values and reduces the probability of intrinsic breakdown. Phase field simulation was employed to confirm that the smaller grain size of the modified ceramic microstructure enhances the extrinsic breakdown and dielectric breakdown strength. Moreover, ab initio molecular dynamics were used to investigate the critical role of the Mg ions in lowering the initial polarization and forming nanodomains, representing the intrinsic contribution to decreasing the initial polarization. An intrinsic structure with moderate polarization rapidly increases the polarization of ceramics under external electric fields, facilitating high energy storage density. The prepared ceramics achieve a recoverable energy density (Wrec) of 3.86 J/cm3 and energy efficiency (η) of 81.2% at 385 kV/cm.
Organization of production and income inequality
Authors: Medrano‐Adán Luis , Salas‐Fumás Vicente , Sanchez‐Asin Javier
Published: February 2024

This paper contributes to the literature that postulates a relationship between income inequality and the relative importance of “market” and “organization” in the direction of resources. The paper emphasizes that both are endogenous; therefore, the empirical associations observed in the empirical data between inequality measures and production organization variables cannot be interpreted as indicative of causal relationships. The paper solves for the composition and size of occupational groups, the distribution of firm size, and the distribution of income as market equilibrium outcomes of an occupational choice economy, and performs a comparative static analysis. We find that the interaction between cross‐economy differences in the distribution of general skills in the labor force and the loss of control in the supervision of workers by managers can explain the empirical regularities observed in the relationship between the organization of production (distribution of firm size) and income inequality (distribution of labor income). This explanation of the empirical regularities differs from others proposed in the literature, such as those based on institutional constraints or the market power of firms.
Microstructural and micromechanical characteristics of composite osteoconductive coatings deposited by the atmospheric pressure plasma technique
Authors: Major Lukasz , Kopp D. F. , Major R. , Lackner Jürgen Markus
Published: February 2024

Long‐term placement of facial implants requires avoiding the formation of fibrous tissue capsules around the artificial material by creating osteoconductive properties of the surface. Most promising approach is the deposition coatings made of materials very similar to bone mineral components, that is, calcium phosphates such as hydroxyapatite (HAp). As part of the research work, an innovative, cost‐effective atmospheric pressure plasma deposition (APPD) system was used as a low‐temperature coating technology for generating the HAp coatings deposition. Full microstructural characterisation of the coatings using SEM and TEM techniques was carried out in the work. It has been shown that the fully crystalline HAp powder undergoes a transformation during the coatings deposition and the material had a quasi‐sintered structure after deposition. The crystalline phase content increased at the coating/substrate interface, while the surface of the HAp was amorphous. This is a very beneficial phenomenon due to the process of bioresorption. The amorphous phase undergoes much faster biodegradation than the crystalline one. In order to increase the bioactivity of the HAp, Zn particles were introduced on the surface of the coating. The TEM microstructural analysis in conjunction with the qualitative analysis of the EDS chemical composition showed that the binding of the Zn particles within the HAp matrix had diffusive character, which is very favourable from the point of view of the quality of the adhesion and the bioactivity of the coating. In the case of such a complex structure and due to its very porous nature, micromechanical analysis was carried out in situ in SEM, that is, by microhardness measurements of both the HAp matrix and the Zn particle. It was shown that the average value of HAp microhardness was 4.395 GPa ± 0.08, while the average value of Zn microhardness was 1.142 GPa ± 0.02
Reaching consensus on the definition of person‐centred handover practices in emergency departments: A modified online Delphi
Authors: de Lange Santel , Heyns Tanya , Filmalter Celia
Published: February 2024

Aim

To reach consensus on the definition and attributes of ‘person‐centred handover practices’ in emergency departments.

Background

Handover practices between emergency care practitioners and healthcare professionals in emergency departments are important and should be conducted meticulously. Person‐centred handover practices may enhance the delivery of person‐centred care in emergency departments.

Design

A three‐round online Delphi survey.

Methods

Nine experts participated in a three round Delphi survey. The expert panel comprised experts from nine countries. Quantitative data were descriptively analysed, and qualitative data were thematically analysed. A consensus of 80% had to be reached before an attribute and definition could be accepted.

Results

Experts reached a consensus of 79% in round one, 95% in round two and 95% in round three. A final set of six attributes were agreed upon and the final concept definition was formulated.

Conclusion

Person‐centred handover practices have not been implemented in emergency departments. Yet, person‐centred handover practices may enhance the delivery of person‐centred care, which has multiple benefits for patients and healthcare practitioners.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Person‐centred care is not generally implemented in emergency departments. Person‐centred handover practices can lead to person‐centred care. Handover practices in emergency departments are a high‐risk activity. Despite numerous calls to standardise and improve handover practices, they remain a problem. Developing a standardised definition could be a first step towards implementing person‐centred handover practices in emergency departments.

Reporting method

The study adhered to the relevant EQUATOR reporting guidelines: Guidance on Conducting and Reporting Delphi Studies (CREDES) checklist.

Impact (Addressing)

Improve handover practices and patient care.

Improve person‐centred care in emergency departments.

Patient or public contribution

Emergency care practitioners and nurses experienced in handover practices and/or person‐centred care, working in clinical and academic fields, participated in the study by sharing their expert knowledge during each of the Delphi rounds.
An mHealth application for chronic vascular access: A multi‐method evaluation
Authors: Ullman Amanda J. , Larsen Emily , Gibson Victoria , Binnewies Sebastian , Ohira Ryoma , Marsh Nicole , Mcbride Craig , Winterbourn Karen , Boyte Francesca , Cunninghame Jacqueline , Dufficy Mitchell , Plummer Karin , Roberts Natasha , Takashima Mari , Cooke Marie , Byrnes Joshua , Rickard Claire M. , Kleidon Tricia M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Healthcare consumers require diverse resources to assist their navigation of complex healthcare interactions, however, these resources need to be fit for purpose.

Aim

In this study, we evaluated the utility, usability and feasibility of children, families and adults requiring long‐term intravenous therapy using a recently developed mobile health application (App), intravenous (IV) Passport.

Design

Multi‐site, parallel, multi‐method, prospective cohort study.

Methods

A multi‐site, multi‐method study was carried out in 2020–2021, with 46 participants (20 adults, 26 children/family) reporting on their experiences surrounding the use of the IV Passport for up to 6 months.

Results

Overall, utility rates were acceptable, with 78.3% (N = 36) using the IV Passport over the follow‐up period, with high rates of planned future use for those still active in the project (N = 21; 73%), especially in the child/family cohort (N = 13; 100%). Acceptability rates were high (9/10; IQR 6.5–10), with the IV Passport primarily used for documenting new devices and complications. Thematic analysis revealed three main themes (and multiple subthemes) in the qualitative data: Advocacy for healthcare needs, Complexity of healthcare and App design and functionality.

Conclusion

Several recommendations were made to improve the end‐user experience including ‘how to’ instructions; and scheduling functionality for routine care.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The IV Passport can be safely and appropriately integrated into healthcare, to support consumers.

Impact

Patient‐/parent‐reported feedback suggests the Intravenous Passport is a useful tool for record‐keeping, and positive communication between patients/parents, and clinicians.

Reporting Method

Not applicable.

Patient Contribution

Consumers reported their experiences surrounding the use of the IV Passport for up to 6 months.
Entrepreneurial Orientation and Underconformity to Female Board Representation Norms
Authors: Askarzadeh Fatemeh , Lewellyn Krista , Fainshmidt Stav , Judge William Q.
Published: February 2024

Despite mounting societal demands for increased female representation on corporate boards, some firms underconform to institutional expectations, exhibiting significantly lower female board representation than their country peers. We argue that a firm's entrepreneurial orientation is positively viewed by stakeholders, providing its corporate leaders with greater latitude to deviate from governance norms. Drawing from social role theory regarding beliefs about the association between entrepreneurial success and typical male traits, we propose that this substitutive legitimacy drives corporate leaders of firms with an entrepreneurial orientation to underconform due to a desire to maintain their firm's orientation. However, the history of female leadership in the firm and disclosure about environmental and social activities moderate the effect of entrepreneurial orientation on underconformity to female board representation norms. A generalized estimating equations analysis of 8410 firm‐year observations in 16 countries from 2012 to 2018 supports our predictions. Our study offers a novel explanation of heterogeneity in female board representation, informs theory of organizational non‐conformity to institutional norms, and highlights potentially unintended consequences of entrepreneurial orientation.
Individual differences in spite predict costly third‐party punishment
Authors: Martínez José L. , Maner Jon K.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Spiteful behaviors are those aimed at inflicting harm on another person while also incurring a cost to the self. Although spite sometimes reflects destructive and socially undesirable behaviors including aggression, the current work sought to examine a potentially socially beneficial aspect of spite: engagement in costly punishment for selfish behavior.

Method

Four studies used a costly third‐party punishment task and measured individual differences in spite, narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and motivations for engaging in punishment.

Results

Trait spite was positively associated with costly punishment of selfish behavior. That association was independent of other dark personality traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy) and was statistically mediated by a desire for retribution. One of the studies also provided evidence that trait spite was associated with costly punishment of even generous behavior; however, rather than a desire for retribution, that association was mediated by a desire to threaten the person being punished.

Conclusion

Punishing selfishness and other forms of wrongdoing plays an essential role in cooperative group living. The current work provides new insight into the role spiteful motivations might play in this crucial social behavior.
Comparative genomics reveals convergent adaptations in lipid metabolism and low genetic diversity in carnivorous bats
Authors: Yue Yang , Zou Dahu , Tian Shilin , Jiao Hengwu , Zhao Huabin
Published: February 2024

Dietary specialization stands as a major factor in the study of adaptive evolution and the field of conservation biology among animals. Although bats show unparalleled dietary diversification among mammals, specialized carnivory remains relatively rare within this group. Consequently, our comprehension of the genetic and conservation aspects associated with this specific dietary niche in bats has largely remained uncharted. To investigate molecular adaptations and conservation genetics in carnivorous bats, we produced a new draft genome assembly for the carnivorous bat Vampyrum spectrum. Furthermore, we utilized this genome alongside another distantly related carnivorous bat Megaderma lyra, to conduct genome‐wide comparative analyses with other bat species. Our findings unveil that genes linked to lipid metabolism exhibit signatures of positive selection and convergent molecular adaptation in the two divergent lineages of carnivorous bats. Intriguingly, we have uncovered that the evolution of dietary specialization in carnivorous bats is accompanied by molecular adaptations acting on genes in the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors pathways, which are crucial in regulating plasma lipid metabolism and sustaining lipid homeostasis. Additionally, our genomic analyses also reveal low genetic diversity in both carnivorous bat species. This pattern is attributed to their continuously declining population sizes and low levels of heterozygosity, signaling their vulnerability and emphasizing the pressing need for conservation efforts. These genomic discoveries advance our understanding of genetic underpinnings of carnivory in bats and underscore substantial conservation concerns associated with carnivorous bat species.
Incidence and prevalence of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis in patients with post‐tuberculosis lung abnormality: Results from a community survey in North India
Authors: Soundappan Kathirvel , Sehgal Inderpaul Singh , Prabhakar Nidhi , Rana Samriti , Raju Rajesh , Dhooria Sahajal , Prasad Kuruswamy Thurai , Muthu Valliappan , Rudramurthy Shivaprakash M. , Chakrabarti Arunaloke , Garg Mandeep , Agarwal Ritesh
Published: February 2024

Background

Post‐tuberculosis lung abnormality (PTLA) is the most common risk factor for developing chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). However, the prevalence and incidence of CPA in PTLA patients in India remain unknown.

Objectives

We aimed to ascertain the incidence and prevalence of CPA in subjects with PTLA.

Methods

We identified a cohort of pulmonary tuberculosis who completed anti‐tuberculosis therapy (ATT) before November 2019 from the records of the 12 tuberculosis treatment centers attached to the national program. We recorded the clinical and demographic details. We performed computed tomography (CT) of the chest and estimated serum A. fumigatus‐specific IgG. We categorised subjects as PTLA with or without CPA using a composite of clinical, radiological, and microbiological features. We resurveyed the subjects at 6 months (or earlier) for the presence of new symptoms. We calculated the prevalence and the incidence rate (per 100‐person years) of CPA.

Results

We included 117 subjects with PTLA, with a median of 3 years after ATT completion. Eleven subjects had CPA in the initial survey, and one additional case developed CPA during the second survey. The prevalence of CPA in PTLA subjects was 10.3% (12/117). The total observation period was 286.7 person‐years. The median (interquartile range) time to develop CPA after ATT completion was 12.5 (5–36.7) months. We found the CPA incidence rate (95% confidence interval) of 4.2 (1.8–6.5) per 100‐person years.

Conclusion

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis complicates 10% of PTLA subjects after successful outcomes with ATT. Four new CPA cases may develop per 100‐persons years of observation after ATT completion. We suggest screening patients with PTLA who develop new symptoms for CPA.
Collision tumor: Multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor with isocitrate dehydrogenase‐mutant diffuse astrocytoma
Authors: Kumar Vinodh A. , Perez Alejandro , Young Angela L. , Jones Julia , O'Brien Barbara J. , Lang Frederick F. , Huse Jason T. , Fuller Gregory N.
Published: February 2024

Herein, we report a case of a collision tumor involving a multinodular and vacuolating neuronal tumor (MVNT) and a diffuse astrocytoma. A collision tumor between these two entities has not previously been reported. The patient is a 35‐year‐old woman who presented with new‐onset hearing loss and ringing in her right ear. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a non‐enhancing mass involving the gray matter and subcortical white matter of the left middle frontal gyrus. Additionally, tiny clustered nodules were noted along the underlying subcortical ribbon and superficial subcortical white matter of the left superior frontal gyrus. The patient underwent a left frontal craniotomy and complete resection of the mass. Histologic examination of the resected specimen demonstrated a collision tumor consisting of a diffuse astrocytoma (isocitrate dehydrogenase [IDH] mutant, central nervous system [CNS] World Health Organization [WHO] grade 2) and an MVNT, with the latter demonstrating characteristic morphologic and immunohistochemical features.
Walking on a tightrope: cell wall‐associated kinases act as sensors and regulators of immunity and symbiosis
Authors: Giovannetti Marco , Genre Andrea
Published: February 2024

This article is a Commentary on Zhang et al. (2024), 242: 2180–2194.
Rural–Urban Migration and Fertility Ideation in Senegal: Comparing Returned, Current, and Future Migrants to Dakar to Rural Nonmigrants
Authors: Boujija Yacine , Bignami Simona , Sandberg John
Published: February 2024

In low‐ and middle‐income countries, significant differences in fertility beliefs between rural and urban areas arise from the differential timing and pace of fertility declines. Demographers have long hypothesized about the diffusion of these beliefs and behaviors from urban to rural areas, potentially via temporary rural–urban labor migration. In this paper, we investigate the association between temporary internal migration from rural Senegal to the capital city, Dakar, and differences in the fertility and contraceptive beliefs and preferences of migrants and nonmigrants. We test socialization, selection, and adaptation hypotheses by comparing the fertility ideation of current and returning migrants with that of nonmigrants and future migrants from their place of origin. Our results support selection effects, explaining half of the differences between nonmigrants and migrants. Once selection effects are removed, significant differences remain between nonmigrants and current or returning migrants. These differences are largely explained by two complementary measures of adaptation: years lived in Dakar and the number of ties to residents of that city. The results indicate that adaptation is as important, if not more so than selection in explaining differences between migrants and nonmigrants. This holds true even for returned migrants five years after their last migration spell. Of the two potential adaptation mechanisms explored, the time spent in Dakar generally explained adaptation better than ties to nonmigrants in Dakar. However, our complementary analyses do not rule out the importance of urban networks on fertility, as they contribute to migrant selection.
Development and application of a codominant marker of the melon rind colour gene CmAPRR2
Authors: Ma Jian , Yuan Guoliang , Zhang Haijun , Qiu Yanhong , Zong Mei , Zhu Xiuxiu , Zhang Huijun
Published: February 2024

Rind colour is an important quality attribute of melon appearance. Identifying target genes and developing functional molecular markers is significant for rind colour breeding in melon. This study involved a genetic analysis of the fruit rind colours of two inbred lines: H185 (with black green melon rind) and H160 (with white rind) alongside a fruit rind colour gene, CmAPRR2. The purpose was to discover the variation sites of the CmAPRR2 gene and develop specific molecular marker for rind colour in melon. The results showed that the black green rind is dominant over white, and single gene controls the colours. A mutation of the G856T base occurred in the eighth exon of the CmAPRR2 coding DNA region in H160, suggesting that this mutation is the key factor for the white rind colour. Thus, a codominant molecular marker, FC, for gene CmAPRR2 was developed and used for molecular identification of 189 F2 individuals. The marker revealed a complete correspondence between genotype and phenotype. Additionally, the marker revealed that the other four white rinds had G856T mutations. This study provides a basis for targeted improvement of melon rind colours, offering a technical means for molecular marker‐assisted breeding of melon rind colours.
Transient infantile lingual leukoplakia: An underrecognized cause of white tongues in infancy
Authors: Lam Joseph M. , Schwieger‐Briel Agnes , Nguyen Tram , Torrelo Antonio
Published: February 2024

We have observed a distinct phenomenon of transient oral lingual leukoplakia in infancy and report 22 healthy infants with gray–white plaques on the dorsal tongue with sparing of the tip from four medical centers in three countries. The onset of the eruption ranged from 1 week to 7 months of life and resolved in 19 patients (86%, with 3 patients lost to follow‐up). None of the eight patients examined at 1 year of age had residual findings. We believe this is a common entity that can be distinguished from oral candidiasis on clinical and/or laboratory examination and name this entity “transient infantile lingual leukoplakia.”
PL‐Pose: robust camera localisation based on combined point and line features using control images
Authors: Xu Zhihua , Niu Yiru , Cui Yan , Qin Rongjun , Sun Wenbin
Published: February 2024

Camera localisation is an essential task in the field of computer vision. The objective is to determine the precise position and orientation of one newly introduced camera station based on a collection of control images that are geographically referenced. Traditional feature‐based approaches have been found to face difficulties when confronted with the task of localising images that exhibit significant disparities in viewpoint. Modern deep learning approaches, on the contrary, aim to directly regress camera poses from input image content, being holistic to remedy the problem of viewpoint disparities. This paper posits that although deep networks possess the ability to learn robust and invariant visual features, the incorporation of geometry models can provide rigorous constraints in the process of pose estimation. Following the classic structure‐from‐motion (SfM) pipeline, we propose a PL‐Pose framework to perform camera localisation. First, to improve feature correlations for images with large viewpoint disparities, we perform the combination of point and line features based on a deep learning framework and geometric relation of wireframes. Then, a cost function is constructed using the combined point and line features in order to impose constraints on the bundle adjustment process. Finally, the camera pose parameters and 3D points are estimated through an iterative optimisation process. We verify the accuracy of the PL‐Pose approach through the utilisation of two datasets, that is, the publicly available S3DIS dataset and the self‐collected dataset CUMTB_Campus. The experimental results demonstrate that in both indoor and outdoor scenes, our PL‐Pose method can achieve localisation errors of less than 1 m for 82% of the test points. In contrast, the other four comparison methods yield a best result of merely 72%. Meanwhile, the PL‐Pose method can successfully obtain the camera pose parameters in all the scenes with small or large viewpoint disparities, indicating its good stability and adaptability.