bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aged spaces in an era of austerity: Food bank use by older people
Authors: Slocombe Hannah
Published: April 2023

In the context of austerity and the COVID‐19 pandemic, this paper draws on 17 interviews conducted with frontline staff and volunteers to explore the use of food banks by older people in a highly deprived North‐West borough. Despite high levels of poverty amongst this age group, older people are infrequent users of food banks and it is their absence from these spaces, as opposed to their use of and experiences within food banks, that has often gained attention. By foregrounding this age group, this paper highlights different circumstances of use, generational dynamics involving heightened feelings of shame, and how food banks function as social spaces for older people. In doing so, this paper adds to literature in gerontology around spaces of ageing, as well as research on food banks, by highlighting how experiences in these spaces are differentiated by age. This paper advances discussions around the impact of austerity on the everyday lives of older people. Due to the timing of this research, it also gives insight into how older people and informal social spaces have been affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Hooked on a memory: How rumination about past positive events might contribute to grandiose ideas?
Authors: Bortolon Catherine , Baeyens Céline , Raffard Stéphane
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Dwelling about positive experiences has been found to be positively related to mania and grandiose ideas. Nevertheless, besides some important limitations, past research has also neglected the nature (or characteristics) of memories individuals dwell on, and that might be specifically associated with grandiose ideas. Thus, the present study aimed to replicate previous studies while considering the role of specificity and the importance of memory used to increase grandiose feelings.

Method

In total, 219 participants were included and, after completing the memory induction, were randomized to either the rumination condition or the distraction condition. They also completed different questionnaires assessing positive rumination and grandiose ideas.

Results

Overall, rumination, compared to the distraction condition, led to the maintenance of grandiose ideas and positive affect from T2 to T3. Regression analysis showed that the specificity of memory was associated with grandiose ideas at T2, which predicted grandiose ideas at T3.

Conclusions

Our results confirm rumination's causal role in forming grandiose ideas. We also found that autobiographical memory and, more specifically, the capacity to recall past positive experiences coupled with repeatedly thinking about them might constitute a fundamental pathway leading to the persistence of such beliefs. The use of a non‐clinical sample limits the results and needs replication in clinical samples.
Age‐related immune cell dynamics influence outcomes after allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Jandin Alizée , Pochon Cécile , Campidelli Arnaud , D'Aveni Maud , Kicki Céline , Notarantonio Anne‐Béatrice , Roth Guepin Gabrielle , Mbuyi Tshinguta Anita , Feugier Pierre , Chastagner Pascal , Schweitzer Cyril , de Carvalho Bittencourt Marcelo , Rubio Marie Thérèse , Pagliuca Simona
Published: April 2023

An efficient immunological reconstitution construes the pillar for the success of allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) in haematological disorders. Factors influencing post‐transplant immune recovery have been largely investigated across multiple cohorts issuing heterogeneous results. Differences in outcomes in adult and paediatric populations suggest an age‐related contribution to post‐transplant immune reconstitution; however, it is unclear how recipient and donor age may affect the dynamics of single immune cells. Here, we retrospectively collected and analysed immunological data of 174 patients (58 children and 116 adults) consecutively transplanted for haematological disorders in our centre. We show that trajectories of specific immune cells were strictly dependent on recipient age and pretransplant virus exposure, with the strongest effect seen on T CD4+ and B‐cell counterparts, while donor age and transplant platforms had a minimal impact. This mirrored different kinetics of immune reconstitution in adult and paediatric patients, with major divergences in immune cell composition in late post‐transplant phases, featuring better survival, relapse‐free survival and cumulative incidence of pathogen‐specific infections in younger patients. Altogether, these findings underpin the importance of recipient age on post‐transplant immune cell recovery and define the basic dynamics of the immune reconstitution in paediatric and adult populations as a benchmark for future studies.
Cognitive behavioural therapy for psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) in an adult with a learning disability: A case study
Authors: Radez Jerica , Crossland Tom , Johns Louise
Published: April 2023

Background

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) are attacks that often look like epileptic seizures (ES). Unlike ES, PNES are not triggered by underlying neurological factors. PNES are relatively rare in the general population; however, their prevalence in people with learning disabilities is much higher—up to 10%. Individuals with PNES and learning disabilities often have psychiatric comorbidities, such as anxiety disorders, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. There are currently no treatment guidelines for PNES in people with or without learning disabilities. However, talking therapies, such as cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT), are recommended. This study explores the effectiveness of CBT for the treatment of PNES in a woman (Susan) with PNES and learning disabilities.

Methods

We used a single‐case experimental design (SCED) to investigate the effectiveness of CBT intervention. Specifically, the withdrawal (also known as ABA) design was applied. The patient's average PNES frequency, as well as idiosyncratic mood measure and standardised outcome measures for people with learning disabilities (Glasgow Anxiety Scale for People with an Intellectual Disability and Mini‐Maslow Assessment of Needs Scale‐Learning Disabilities), were used to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Findings

Results show that Susan's monthly PNES frequency reduced from phase A1 (assessment phase) to phase B (treatment phase), and this persisted to the follow‐up phase (phase A2). However, the reduction was not statistically significant. The intervention was associated with improvements in Susan's mood, anxiety and quality of life. Reduction of Susan's anxiety was clinically significant.

Conclusions

This SCED study demonstrates that CBT might be associated with reduction of PNES frequency and improvements in general functioning in people with PNES and learning disabilities; however, further research, especially around confounding variables is needed.
Tiratricol, a thyroid hormone metabolite, has potent inhibitory activity against human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase
Authors: Cao Shuying , Ma Hui , Xu Zhaomin , Fang Wenqing , Huang Jin , Huang Ying
Published: April 2023

Human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (hDHODH) is a promising drug target for many diseases including autoimmune diseases, cancer, and viral infection. To develop more novel and potent hDHODH inhibitors, we screened our in‐house library of old drugs. We found that tiratricol (3,3′,5‐triiodothyroacetic acid), a thyroid hormone metabolite, has potent hDHODH inhibitory activity (IC50: 0.754 ± 0.126 μM), and its precursor tetrac (3,3′,5,5′‐tetraiodothyroacetic acid) also shows a certain inhibitory activity against hDHODH (IC50: 11.960 ± 1.453 μM). Enzyme kinetic analysis shows that tiratricol and tetrac are noncompetitive inhibitors versus CoQ0, which is different from the positive control A771726. ThermoFMN assay, molecular docking and site‐directed mutagenesis all indicate that tiratricol and tetrac interact with more key residues of hDHODH than A771726, especially some hydrophobic residues in Subsite 1. In conclusion, our experiment results indicate a potential new use for the old drug, tiratricol, and provide a novel chemical scaffold for the design of hDHODH inhibitors.
Prediction of lymph node metastasis of well‐differentiated rectal neuroendocrine tumours using multiple diagnostic modalities
Authors: Emoto Shigenobu , Kawai Kazushige , Nozawa Hiroaki , Sasaki Kazuhito , Murono Koji , Yokoyama Yuichiro , Abe Shinya , Nagai Yuzo , Sonoda Hirofumi , Ishihara Soichiro
Published: April 2023

Aim

The preoperative prediction of lymph node metastasis of well‐differentiated rectal neuroendocrine tumours is highly desirable and useful in defining surgical indication more accurately. We aimed to evaluate lymph node metastasis in rectal neuroendocrine neoplasms using multiple imaging modalities.

Methods

The clinical records and radiological images of 70 patients with well‐differentiated rectal neuroendocrine tumours who received treatment at the University of Tokyo Hospital between 2010 and 2022 were retrospectively analysed. The relationship between evaluation by multiple imaging modalities and pathological lymph node metastasis was analysed.

Results

The receiver operating characteristic curves showed that a maximum lymph node diameter ≥4 mm on computed tomography and ≥8 mm on magnetic resonance imaging were the optimal predictive factors for lymph node metastasis. Accumulation in the lymph nodes on somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (P = 0.058) and Delle's findings on colonoscopy (P = 0.014) were also significant predictors of pathological lymph node positivity, and combination of multiple modalities was useful. Pathologically, lymphatic (P = 0.0030)/venous (P = 0.0007) invasion were risk factors for lymph node metastasis.

Conclusions

In addition to pathological risk factors, a combination of multiple radiological imaging modalities is useful for predicting lymph node metastasis in well‐differentiated rectal neuroendocrine tumours.
Integrated systematic planning and adaptive stakeholder process support a 10‐fold increase in South Africa's Marine Protected Area estate
Authors: Sink Kerry Jennifer , Lombard Amanda Talita , Attwood Colin Graham , Livingstone Tamsyn‐Claire , Grantham Hedley , Holness Stephen Dale
Published: April 2023

South Africa sought to implement an ecologically representative Marine Protected Area (MPA) network to achieve biodiversity and fisheries management goals with least impact on offshore stakeholders. The result was the declaration of a spatially efficient network representing 131 of 150 marine ecosystem types (87%) in 5.4% of ocean area. We outline the 15‐year process from planning to implementation of 20 new MPAs, including contentious areas recognized as important for conservation decades ago. Systematic Conservation Planning (SCP) supported by 532 data layers and an inclusive stakeholder process identified priority areas, reduced conflict and guided complex trade‐offs. Multiple scenarios and iterative improvements increased transparency, supported ocean zonation and achieved balanced compromises while maintaining conservation objectives. Key challenges, enabling factors and lessons are shared. We demonstrate that flexible, evidence‐based SCP together with adaptive social processes that are alert to opportunities can support implementation of representative MPA networks aligned to ocean economy goals.
An individual differences perspective on pragmatic abilities in the preschool years
Authors: Bohn Manuel , Tessler Michael Henry , Kordt Clara , Hausmann Tom , Frank Michael C.
Published: April 2023

Pragmatic abilities are fundamental to successful language use and learning. Individual differences studies contribute to understanding the psychological processes involved in pragmatic reasoning. Small sample sizes, insufficient measurement tools, and a lack of theoretical precision have hindered progress, however. Three studies addressed these challenges in three‐ to 5‐year‐old German‐speaking children (N = 228, 121 female). Studies 1 and 2 assessed the psychometric properties of six pragmatics tasks. Study 3 investigated relations among pragmatics tasks and between pragmatics and other cognitive abilities. The tasks were found to measure stable variation between individuals. Via a computational cognitive model, individual differences were traced back to a latent pragmatics construct. This presents the basis for understanding the relations between pragmatics and other cognitive abilities.

Research Highlights

Individual differences in pragmatic abilities are important to understanding variation in language development.

Research in this domain lacks a precise theoretical framework and psychometrically high‐quality measures.

We present six tasks capturing a wide range of pragmatic abilities with excellent re‐test reliability.

We use a computational cognitive model to provide a substantive theory of individual differences in pragmatic abilities.
Long‐term monitoring of pikeperch (Sander lucioperca) populations under increasing temperatures and predator abundances in the Finnish coastal waters of the Baltic Sea
Authors: Olin Mikko , Heikinheimo Outi , Lehtonen Topi K. , Raitaniemi Jari
Published: April 2023

The Baltic Sea has been under intense environmental changes in the recent decades, such as climate change, eutrophication and increasing abundance of top‐predators, which pose serious challenges to its aquatic life. For informed conservation measures and sustainable yields, we need to understand how the populations are being affected. Accordingly, we used long‐term data series (covering the period between 1980 and 2021) to assess how these changes have affected populations of an ecologically and economically important predatory fish, the pikeperch (Sander lucioperca), in the coastal waters of Finland in the northern Baltic Sea. We investigated the estimates of abundance and recruitment, commercial and recreational catch statistics and growth and mortality rates. We found a clear increase in the total catches in the northernmost part of the Finnish coast (Bothnian Bay) that were not explained by changes in fishing effort, indicating increased abundance, most likely due to higher water temperature. In the southern part of the study area (Archipelago Sea), density‐dependent factors prevented the development of particularly strong year classes, despite the beneficial conditions of warming seawater and consecutive warm summers. Individual growth has increased in younger age groups, contributing to an upward trend in the spawning population biomass. We also uncovered a declining trend in the total mortality in the southern area, despite increased abundances of cormorants and seals, explained by reduced total fishing mortality. These results show that the pikeperch is one of the species that has, thus far, benefited from the environmental change in the northern Baltic Sea, strengthening its role in the ecosystem.
Seeking connection can trigger shame loops in couples: An attachment‐based understanding
Authors: Frediani Gianina , Migerode Lieven
Published: April 2023

Research shows that shame can have a severe negative impact on intimate relationships, leading to negative shame loops between partners. In this article, we aim to provide a theoretical analysis of how attachment theory can help us understand that shame loops within couple relationships may not only be triggered by negative cues, such as criticism from a partner but can also innocently be triggered by a partner seeking connection or even offering comfort. We also elaborate on how therapists may unexpectedly trigger and intensify a client's shame. We conclude by providing a case description and discussing the therapeutic implications that can be helpful when working with the paradoxes of shame in couple therapy.
Evaluating the dependence of opportunistic Yellow‐legged Gulls (Larus michahellis) on marine habitat and fishing discards
Authors: Zorrozua Nere , Granado Igor , Fernandes‐Salvador Jose A. , Louzao Maite , Basterretxea Mikel , Arizaga Juan
Published: April 2023

Several bird species benefit from anthropogenic food subsidies, such as landfills and fishing discards, that are being reduced owing to introduced legislation. For instance, since 2019, Europe has passed legislation to reduce dramatically the amount of fisheries discards through the Landing Obligation (LO), which states that all fish species under Total Allowable Catch (TAC) should not be discarded at sea. This European discard ban is expected to impact some gulls, as several gull populations have been observed to be heavily reliant on this resource. In this work, GPS tracking data from adult Yellow‐legged Gulls Larus michahellis and Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) data (i.e. detailed data of the spatial distribution of fishing vessels) are used to determine the utilization of the marine habitat and the level of interaction of gulls with fishing activity offshore and discards in the south‐eastern part of the Bay of Biscay. We found that these gulls had a low use of the marine habitat (ca. 15%) compared with terrestrial habitats, in contrast to the ca. 40% of the diet of this population which comprises marine prey. Furthermore, we detected that most of the gull tracking positions at sea did not interact with the fishing vessels (an overlap of 21.5% between gulls and VMS data). Conversely, other gull populations of the Iberian Peninsula were found to depend much more strongly on fishing activity. Therefore, the Yellow‐legged Gull population of the SE Bay of Biscay did not obtain most of its fish prey from interactions with offshore fishing activity but most possibly by taking fish remains in harbours and by feeding themselves. Consequently, we expect a minimal effect of the European policies oriented to ban fishing discards offshore on this population, which would be more affected by policies directed towards the reduction of food availability in landfills or fish landing management in harbours.
Acoustic niche partitioning among seven cuckoo species in a forest in eastern China
Authors: Mei Jinjuan , Puswal Sabah Mushtaq , Wang Mei , Liu Fanglin
Published: April 2023

Acoustic communication among birds plays an important role in attracting mates and defending territories. For the successful transmission of songs, individuals of different species often avoid singing at the same time to reduce acoustic interference from background noise and overlapping signals from heterospecifics. Such behavioural acoustic niche partitioning may occur especially among closely related species due to their ecological similarities. In this study, we recorded bird sounds in a subtropical forest in China in May–June 2019 and detected seven cuckoo species. Extracting characteristics of the cuckoo calls, we found that only four of the 21 pairs of species overlapped in frequency range, and 19 pairs were classified accurately using a linear discriminant analysis classifier based on their features. The remaining two species pairs could be separated based on temporal or spatial distribution patterns. We also analysed the temporal distribution patterns and overlap time of the calls, finding that the seven species exhibit partitioning in at least one of three acoustic dimensions (site, frequency, activity time). We conclude that the seven sympatric cuckoo species were strongly partitioned in acoustic signal space and minimally masked each other's signals.
Are COVID‐19 patients given adequate instructions about toothbrush hygiene? A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Al‐Khatib Aceil , Dalbah Yazan Emad
Published: April 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate toothbrush hygienic practices, whether subjects with a positive COVID‐19 test received instructions about toothbrush hygiene, and to determine if carriers of SARS CoV‐2 were assigned separate bathrooms during home isolation.

Methods

Data were collected by an anonymous online questionnaire. Variables of interest included toothbrush hygiene practices, receiving instructions on toothbrush handling if tested positive for COVID‐19, and being assigned separate bathrooms during home isolation.

Results

From November 2020 through April 2021; 755 responded (472 [62.5%] females, 269 [35.6%] males, 14 [1.85%] did not specify their gender). 14 (4.1%) of 341 respondents who reported a positive result of a COVID‐19 test received instructions about how to maintain their toothbrush during home isolation. The majority of subjects (74.4%) reported the use of water to wet their toothbrush before brushing, this practice was significantly more common among young subjects (p < 0.001). 58.6% wash all parts of the toothbrush after use while 38.8% wash the head of the toothbrush, and 1.6% place the toothbrush in an antiseptic. 53% used separate bathrooms during isolation, this was significantly associated with age group (p = 0.006) and higher monthly income (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

The majority of participants with a positive result of the COVID‐19 test were not given explicit instructions about toothbrush handling. Less than half reported good toothbrush hygienic practices. Higher monthly income was significantly associated with using a separate bathroom during home isolation. Providing explicit instructions about toothbrush hygiene is recommended to reduce the spread of contagious diseases such as COVID‐19.
Intra‐ and interspecific variation in trace element concentrations in feathers of north European trans‐African migrants
Authors: Sommer Nicolas Ordax , Luttinen Arto , Lehikoinen Aleksi
Published: April 2023

The knowledge of migratory connectivity is important for understanding the potential drivers of populations and it is thus important for conservation implications. Migratory connectivity of species can be studied using exogenous, such as rings and transmitters, or endogenous markers, such as stable isotopes and trace elements. The use of trace elements has been much less frequently studied compared to stable isotopes. Trace elements can be studied from the feathers of birds and this does not necessarily require trapping of individuals. Here we studied the variation of 18 different trace elements in feathers of two long‐distance trans‐African migrants, willow warblers Phylloscopus trochilus and barn swallows Hirundo rustica, using body feathers of museum specimens of birds from Finnish breeding grounds. The trace elements were measured using laser‐ablation inductively‐coupled‐plasma mass‐spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS). We show that trace element concentrations were relatively stable along the rachis within the same feather except in Ni and S, which showed a quadratic pattern. In general, variation within feathers of the same individuals was smaller than in feathers between individuals for most elements. Furthermore, concentrations of 11 trace elements showed significantly higher concentrations in willow warbler feathers collected in spring than in autumn, moulted in African wintering grounds and European breeding grounds, respectively. Last, concentrations of seven trace elements were significantly higher in the spring feathers of willow warblers compared to barn swallows. This suggests that trace elements could be used to separate moulting grounds of the birds on the larger scale within the same species, but also sampling design should be carefully considered.
Impact of daily use of emollient ‘plus’ on corticosteroid consumption in patients with atopic dermatitis: An open, randomized controlled study
Authors: Zelenkova H. , Kerob D. , Salah S. , Demessant‐Flavigny A.‐L.
Published: April 2023

Background

Emollients are the baseline treatment for mild or moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) to improve the epidermal barrier and provide anti‐irritant and anti‐pruritic effects. Emollient ‘plus’ can influence the skin microbiome of atopic eczema patients.

Objectives

To evaluate the benefits of using Emollient ‘plus’ to reduce corticosteroid consumption.

Methods

In an open, single‐centre, randomized, controlled study, patients with mild to moderate AD (Severity scoring of AD [SCORAD] score 20–30) were randomized 1:1 to apply the Emollient ‘plus’ twice daily for 28 days or to continue with their usual classical emollient (Control group). In addition, each patient received topical corticosteroids to use when necessary and according to the dermatologist's prescription. Assessments included SCORAD, PO‐SCORAD, local SCORAD, quality of life questionnaires, and tolerability.

Results

A total of 119 patients were included in the PP population with a mean age of 26.50 ± 17.5 years old (min–max 3–71 years). Between baseline and day 28, the mean amount of corticosteroid used was lower for the Emollient ‘plus’ versus Control group (6.03 vs. 9.16 g; p = 0.041) and corticosteroid was applied on fewer days (37.5% vs. 46.9% of days; p = 0.0256) with fewer applications per day (0.55 vs. 0.71 applications per day; p = 0.0203). Similar improvements were observed in both groups for SCORAD, PO‐SCORAD, local SCORAD, skin sensation score, AD burden scale, patient benefit index >1, as well as subject and investigator efficacy and tolerability questionnaire assessments.

Conclusions

Between baseline and day 28, there was significant corticosteroid‐sparing in the Emollient ‘plus’ group compared to the Control group in quantity, number of applications per day and number of days of use, whilst efficacy was maintained with no significant differences between the two groups for all clinical evaluations, as well as for tolerability.
Psychometric properties of postnatal accumulated fatigue scale validity and reliability
Authors: Kırca Ayça Şolt , Gül Derya Kanza , Şener Nurdilan
Published: April 2023

Objective

Fatigue is a common adverse experience in postpartum women and can seriously affect maternal and infant health and quality of life. The aim of this study was to adapt the validity and reliability of the postnatal accumulated fatigue scale (PAFS) for postpartum mothers.

Methods

The sample of the cross‐sectional methodological study consisted of 140 postpartum mothers. Data were collected between July and December 2020. Tools used for data collection were the mother information form, Edinburgh postpartum depression scale, and the PAFS.

Results

As a result of exploratory factor analysis, it was determined that PAFS consisted of 13 items, 6 items in the “Physical Fatigue” subdimension, 4 items in the “Emotional” subdimension, and 3 items in the “Cognitive” subdimension. The three‐factor scale structure supported confirmatory factor analysis. On the total scale, Cronbach's α was found to be 0.91.

Conclusions

Based on the study results, the Turkish language version of the PAFS is valid and reliable for postpartum mothers. This scale can be used safely by health professionals in postpartum units.
Evaluation of the transverse venous sinus with transcranial color‐coded duplex
Authors: Henry Christine , Kapoor Sahil , Krishnan Vivek , Levi John , Fargen Kyle , D'Agostino Ralph , Hendrix Sheryl , Foster Dana , Brown Patrick , Tegeler Charles A , Sarwal Aarti
Published: April 2023

Background and Purpose

Ultrasound‐derived diagnosis of transverse venous sinus stenosis (TVSS) may have a promise given recent exploration of its role in pathophysiology of intracranial hypertension and availability of interventions like venous stenting. We investigated transverse venous sinus (TVS) insonation using transcranial color‐coded duplex (TCCD) to establish normative values, inform on inherent physiological variability, and other measures to allow future studies on testing the construct validity of TCCD venous in diagnosing TVSS.

Methods

An institutional review board‐approved prospective observational study evaluated 20 healthy volunteers to define TCCD‐based measures for the TVS. Comparatively, the basal vein of Rosenthal, deep middle cerebral veins, and internal jugular veins were insonated. We report on physiological variability including the intrasubject, intersubject, and side‐to‐side variability; gradient of TVS velocities on each side from medial to lateral insonation; and the relationship between TVS and other insonated venous structures.

Results

Fifteen out of 20 subjects had the TVS insonated bilaterally, and five had unilaterally (four right, one left). TVS velocities had comparable intrasubject variability to other intracranial veins insonated and lower velocity‐based variability than the pulsatility index. There was significant side‐side variability in TVS‐derived measures without discernible patterns. Insonating TVS from medial to lateral revealed a gradient with a bimodal peak in ultrasound‐derived velocities. We did not find discernible relationships between TVS and other veins for TCCD‐derived measures.

Conclusions

These results can inform future studies validating the normative values in a larger sample and help explore the role of TCCD venous in the diagnosis of venous sinus stenosis.
Coexistence of European hares and Alpine mountain hares in the Alps: what drives the occurrence and frequency of their hybrids?
Authors: Schai‐Braun S. C. , Schwienbacher S. , Smith S. , Hackländer K.
Published: April 2023

As a glacial relict species, mountain hares are adapted to cold and snowy conditions. Conversely, European hares originate from the grasslands of the Middle East and spread from there throughout low‐lying agricultural areas of Europe. Mountain hares and European hares generally occur allopatrically, however, sympatry occurs in some areas. In sympatric areas, introgressive hybridisation poses a threat to the Alpine mountain hare by reducing its genetic integrity. Introgressed individuals can be found in both species but are far more frequent in European hares than in mountain hares. The ecology of hybrids is poorly known in these species. To examine the Alpine mountain hare and European hare populations in the Alps with a particular focus on the occurrence and ecology of their hybrids, we performed molecular genetic analysis of hare faecal samples collected in four study areas in the Alps in South Tyrol for three winters and compared habitat associations of the genotyped samples. We recorded 150 individuals (i.e. 14 hybrids, 25 European hares and 111 Alpine mountain hares). Four introgressed individuals were at levels consistent with F2 hybrids, whereas the others showed an older interspecific gene flow. We found that hybrid faeces tended to be at lower elevations compared to those of Alpine mountain hare but at higher elevations than those of the European hare. The frequency of Alpine mountain hares decreased as the proportion of Alpine grassland increased but was positively correlated with the proportion of dwarf shrub heaths. No effect of vegetation type was found for the frequency of European hares and hybrids. Our results support the widely raised concerns that the European hare, as a generalist, is a strong competitor with the Alpine mountain hare in the Alpine ecosystem in the time of global climate change.
Programmed cell death 1 genetic variant and liver damage in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Pipitone Rosaria M. , Malvestiti Francesco , Pennisi Grazia , Jamialahmadi Oveis , Dongiovanni Paola , Bertolazzi Giorgio , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Yki‐Järvinen Hannele , Vespasiani‐Gentilucci Umberto , Tavaglione Federica , Maurotti Samantha , Bianco Cristiana , Di Maria Gabriele , Enea Marco , Fracanzani Anna L. , Kärjä Vesa , Lupo Giulia , Männistö Ville , Meroni Marica , Piciotti Roberto , Qadri Sami , Zito Rossella , Craxì Antonio , Di Marco Vito , Cammà Calogero , Tripodo Claudio , Valenti Luca , Romeo Stefano , Petta Salvatore , Grimaudo Stefania
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Programmed cell death 1/programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐1/PDL‐1) axis has been reported to modulate liver inflammation and progression to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Here, we examined whether the PDCD1 variation is associated with NAFLD severity in individuals with liver biopsy.

Methods

We examined the impact of PDCD1 gene variants on HCC, as robust severe liver disease phenotype in UK Biobank participants. The strongest genetic association with the rs13023138 G>C variation was subsequently tested for association with liver damage in 2889 individuals who underwent liver biopsy for suspected nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Hepatic transcriptome was examined by RNA‐Seq in a subset of NAFLD individuals (n = 121). Transcriptomic and deconvolution analyses were performed to identify biological pathways modulated by the risk allele.

Results

The rs13023138 C>G showed the most robust association with HCC in UK Biobank (p = 5.28E‐4, OR = 1.32, 95% CI [1.1, 1.5]). In the liver biopsy cohort, rs13023138 G allele was independently associated with severe steatosis (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.02‐1.34; p = .01), NASH (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09‐1.37; p < .001) and advanced fibrosis (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.06‐1.50; p = .007). At deconvolution analysis, rs13023138 G>C allele was linked to higher hepatic representation of M1 macrophages, paralleled by upregulation of pathways related to inflammation and higher expression of CXCR6.

Conclusions

The PDCD1 rs13023138 G allele was associated with HCC development in the general population and with liver disease severity in patients at high risk of NASH.
Plant secondary metabolite citral interferes with Phytophthora capsici virulence by manipulating the expression of effector genes
Authors: Song Wen , Yin Zhiyuan , Lu Xinyu , Shen Danyu , Dou Daolong
Published: April 2023

Phytophthora capsici is a notorious pathogen that infects various economically important plants and causes serious threats to agriculture worldwide. Plants deploy a variety of plant secondary metabolites to fend off pathogen attacks, but the molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, we screened 11 plant secondary metabolites to evaluate their biofumigation effects against P. capsici, and found that citral, carvacrol, and trans‐2‐decenal exhibited strong antimicrobial effects. Intriguingly, a low concentration of citral was effective in restricting P. capsici infection in Nicotiana benthamiana, but it was unable to inhibit the mycelial growth. A high concentration of citral affected the mycelial growth and morphology, zoospore germination, and cell membrane permeability of P. capsici. Further investigations showed that citral did not induce expression of tested plant immunity‐related genes and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, suggesting that a low concentration of citral could not trigger plant immunity. Moreover, RNA‐Seq analysis showed that citral treatment regulated the expression of some P. capsici effector genes such as RxLR genes and P. cactorum‐fragaria (PCF)/small cysteine‐rich (SCR)74‐like genes during the infection process, which was also verified by reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR assay. Five candidate effector genes suppressed by citral significantly facilitated P. capsici infection in N. benthamiana or inhibited ROS triggered by flg22, suggesting that they were virulence factors of P. capsici. Together, our results revealed that plant‐derived citral exhibited excellent inhibitory efficacy against P. capsici by suppressing vegetative growth and manipulating expression of effector genes, which provides a promising application of citral for controlling Phytophthora blight.
Transforming normative, ableist, and biomedical orientations to living well and quality of life in nursing: Reimagining what a ventilated body can do
Authors: Straus Elizabeth J. , Brown Helen , Teachman Gail , Howard Fuchsia
Published: April 2023

A goal of living as well as possible is central to practice and research with young adults living with home mechanical ventilation (HMV). Significant effort has been put into conceptualizing and measuring the quality of life (QOL) as a proxy for living well. Yet, dominant understandings of QOL have been influenced by normative, ableist, and biomedical discourses about what constitutes a good life that, when applied in practice and systems with those living with HMV, can contribute to exclusion and constrain opportunities to live well. Inquiry into what certain understandings of living well can do is critical to opening up possibilities to reimagine living well with HMV. This paper draws on findings from a critical narrative inquiry that explored the experiences of five young adults (ages 18–40 years) living with HMV. Data were co‐constructed virtually through an initial interview and photo‐elicitation using participant‐generated photographs. A critical narrative analysis of participants' stories made visible the ideological effects of ableist, biomedical, and individualist discourses and how the young adults reproduced and resisted these dominant discourses. Their stories further opened up possibilities for nurses and other healthcare providers to see living well and QOL differently.
Esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ‐CI) complements reflux disease severity and provides insight into the pathophysiology of reflux disease
Authors: Dervin Humayra , Bassett Paul , Sweis Rami
Published: April 2023

Background

Esophagogastric junction contractile integral (EGJ‐CI) has not come into routine use due to methodological discrepancies and its unclear clinical utility. We aimed to determine which method of calculating EGJ‐CI was best at discriminating between common reflux disease states.

Methods

High‐resolution manometry (HRM) and pH‐Impedance measurements were acquired for 100 patients; 25 Barrett's esophagus (>3 cm/acid exposure time (AET) > 6), 25 endoscopy‐negative reflux disease (ENRD; AET >6), 25 borderline reflux (AET 4–6), 25 functional heartburn (FH; AET <4), constituting the developmental cohort. EGJ‐CI was calculated at 20 mmHg, 2 mmHg, and 0 mmHg isobaric contour. Empirical associations, univariable, multivariable and ROC analyses were performed between EGJ‐CI and manometric/pH‐impedance metrics. A validation cohort (n = 25) was used to test the new EGJ‐CI cutoff.

Key Results

Significant correlations with AET were observed when EGJ‐CI was calculated with an isobaric threshold of 20 mmHg (p < 0.001). Significant differences in EGJ‐CI were observed between patients with FH and Barrett's esophagus (p = 0.004) and with ENRD (p = 0.01); however, LES basal pressure was unable to differentiate between these disease states (p = 0.09, p = 0.25, respectively). ROC analysis on the developmental cohort found that EGJ‐CI 21.2 mmHg.cm demonstrated sensitivity 72% and specificity 72% between patients with reflux (Barrett's esophagus/ENRD) and FH. In the validation cohort, 92.8% with a low EGJ‐CI had good/moderate improvement in symptoms following therapy compared to 54.5% with raised EGJ‐CI (p = 0.026).

Conclusions and Inferences

This study re‐affirms EGJ‐CI as a reliable discriminator between reflux disease (Barrett's esophagus/ENRD) and FH. In borderline reflux patients, patients with a lower EGJ‐CI score (<21.2 mmHg) appear to respond better to anti‐reflux therapies compared to those with a higher value.
Clinical outcome of disorders of gut‐brain interaction in secondary care: A longitudinal study
Authors: Chuah Kee Huat , Hian Wen Xuan , Teoh Aik Tatt , Ling Justin Kwan Yeu , Mahadeva Sanjiv
Published: April 2023

Background

Real‐world data on the outcome of routine treatment for disorders of gut‐brain interaction (DGBI) in secondary care are lacking.

Method

A longitudinal study of consecutive adult patients with various DGBI attending this institution's gastroenterology clinic was conducted. Following 2 years of treatment, the proportion of patients with symptom improvement, details of clinical therapy, factors associated with and the impact of ‘no symptom improvement’ were determined.

Results

A total of 289 patients (median age 68 years; 64.7% females; 28.4% irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), 20.1% functional dyspepsia (FD), 8.7% functional constipation (FC), 42.9% overlap syndrome) were recruited. After 2 years, 66.1% patients reported symptom improvement. Patients with overlap syndrome were less likely to have symptomatic improvement compared to those with a single DGBI (Overlap 55.6% vs IBS 74.4% vs FD 72.4% vs FC 76.0%, p = 0.014). Reassurance was associated with symptom improvement (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, overlap syndrome remained significantly associated with a poorer outcome (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.22–4.25, p = 0.010), while providing reassurance was associated with a positive outcome (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.16–0.56, p < 0.001).

Only 25.6% and 14.9% of patients were referred for a low FODMAP diet and psychiatric intervention respectively. DGBI patients who had ‘no improvement’ were more likely to seek further GI consultations and had more work absenteeism.

Conclusion

Two‐thirds of DGBI patients in secondary care showed symptom improvement. Patients who were reassured had better symptom improvement, while those with an overlap syndrome were associated with a poorer outcome, resulting in greater healthcare consultation and work absenteeism.
Pathways between oral health conditions and bullying on adolescents: A 10‐year cohort study
Authors: Bolsson Gabriela Bohrer , Knorst Jessica Klöckner , Rissotto Menegazzo Gabriele , Ardenghi Thiago Machado
Published: April 2023

Objective

To assess the pathways in which oral health conditions, socioeconomic, and psychosocial factors in childhood can lead to the occurrence of bullying in adolescence.

Methods

This is a 10‐year cohort study conducted with a sample of 639 children in southern Brazil. Oral health conditions (dental caries, dental trauma and malocclusion), sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics were obtained at baseline (T1) and at follow‐up (T2). General and dental bullying were assessed at T2 using the Bullying Olweus questionnaire and through a question contained in the Child Perception Questionnaire 11–14. Structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the pathways between oral health measures and bullying episodes over time.

Results

A total of 429 students were evaluated at follow‐up. Untreated dental caries were direct and indirectly related with the occurrence of dental bullying at follow‐up and indirectly associated with general bullying at T2. Low socioeconomic status, low sense of coherence and dental bullying presented a direct impact on the occurrence of general bullying at T2.

Conclusions

Untreated dental caries are presented as the main oral health predictor of the occurrence of bullying episodes in adolescence.
Textbook outcome was associated with better survival in oral cancer surgery in southern Taiwan
Authors: Chiou Ling‐Jan , Lee Ching‐Chih
Published: April 2023

Objective

To explore the impact of textbook outcome (TO) on long‐term survival in oral cancer surgery.

Subjects and Methods

In total, 386 patients with tumor resection, neck dissection (ND), and reconstruction between 2011 and 2020 were included. TO was defined as negative margin; adequate ND; no 3‐day emergency room revisit; no 30‐day readmission; and length of stay ≤22 days. Multivariate Cox regression was used to evaluate the impact of TO and 5‐year overall survival (OS).

Results

The TO rate was 35%. Younger age, subsite in buccal area, Charlson Comorbidity Index Score of 0, higher body mass index, higher hemoglobin, higher albumin, and unilateral ND were associated with TO. 5‐year OS was 70.5% in overall TO patients and 49.0% in non‐TO patients (HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.31–0.70; p < 0.001). Non‐TO was associated with an increased mortality rate (aHR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.14–2.63) after adjusting other factors and the result remained robust with inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis. The impact of TO on OS was more significant in age <60, advanced stage, and diagnosis year before 2018.

Conclusion

Not achieving TO in oral cancer surgery was associated with worse long‐term outcome. TO could be used as a proxy for surgical quality improvement.
The predictive value of laboratory tests in oro‐maxillofacial infection of different severity
Authors: Wang Baoli , Zhou Qin , Qian Wentao , He Zhiyuan , Yang Zuoyi , Chen Changyu , Zheng Lingyan , Shi Huan
Published: April 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate the value of individual laboratory tests and combinations of tests for predicting disease severity.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 62 patients with space infections in the oral and maxillofacial head and neck regions. Patients were divided into three groups according to severity. Laboratory tests associated with disease severity were identified.

Results

As the severity of infection increased, leukocytes, neutrophils, C‐reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), soluble interleukin receptor (sILR) 2, IL6, and creatinine (CR) increased. In the ROC analysis of group 1 (moderate infection) versus group 2 (severe infection), the area under the curve (AUC) values for leukocytes (AUC = 0.724), neutrophils (AUC = 0.714), PCT (AUC = 0.762) and a combination of the 3 tests (AUC = 0.768) suggested a strong predictive value. Furthermore, in the ROC analysis of group 2 (severe infection) versus group 3 (extremely severe infection), the AUC values for CRP (AUC = 0.84), PCT (AUC = 0.799), sIL2R (AUC = 0.937), IL6 (AUC = 0.863) and a combination of the four tests (AUC = 0.943) suggested a strong predictive value.

Conclusions

Leukocytes, neutrophils, and PCT were associated with multispace infection and high severity. CRP, PCT, sIL2R, and/or IL6 were associated with extremely severe infections occurring in the oral and maxillofacial head and neck regions.
The Czech version of the life satisfaction index for the third age—short form (LSITA‐SF12): Psychometric properties
Authors: Bužgová Radka , Bobčíková Katka , Kozáková Radka , Zeleníková Renáta
Published: April 2023

Background

Evaluation of life satisfaction of older people using standardised tools can play a crucial role in evaluating the effectiveness of policy measures aimed at mitigating the effects of population aging.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to verify the psychometric properties of the Czech version of a 12‐item scale (the Life Satisfaction Index for the Third Age) for older people living in the community.

Methods

The research involved 1113 older people from the Moravian–Silesian Region over 60 years of age living in a home environment. For the newly created Czech version of LSITA‐SF12, we tested validity (construct validity and convergent validity) and reliability (internal consistency).

Results

We confirmed a single‐factor model for the LSITA‐SF12 scale (χ2 = 71.33, p <  .001, CFI = 0.995, TLI = 0.994, RMSEA = 0.065, SRMR = 0.056, GFI = 0.999) by confirmatory factor analysis and load factor analysis (values of explorations ≥0.45). The internal consistency of the scale was satisfactory (α = 0.878). Furthermore, there was a medium correlation rate (r = 0.592; p <  .001) between the overall score of the LSITA‐SF and quality‐of‐life score (OPQoL‐Brief).

Conclusions

We found the Czech version of the LSITA‐SF12 questionnaire to have satisfactory psychometric properties. The questionnaire is suitable for use in research and clinical practice to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive measures.

Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov. PRS Protocol Registration and Results System; NCT05637177.

Implication for practice

The LSITA_SF12 questionnaire can beadministered by a community gerontological nurse and can be used in clinicalpractice and research.