bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Abnormal Body Weight and Allergic Rhinitis—A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yeo Brian Sheng Yep , Guan Elaine Jiaxin , Ng Kaiwen , Lim Yun Sun , Goh Ryan Tsui Hon , Liu Xuandao , Phua Chu Qin , Tay Kaijun , Png Lu Hui , Xu Shuhui , Teo Neville Wei Yang , Charn Tze Choong
Published: November 2024

Objective

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent inflammatory condition of the nasal mucosa, with significant burden worldwide. While studies have demonstrated a relationship between body mass index (BMI) and other atopic diseases, its association with AR is uncertain. This study aims to clarify the association between non‐normal BMI and AR.

Design

According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations, independent authors screened studies for eligibility, extracted data and assessed bias of included studies using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) framework. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was used to pool maximally covariate‐adjusted estimates. Additional subgroup and bias analyses were performed.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS and CINAHL were searched from inception to 14 January, 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

Observational studies investigating the association between non‐normal BMI and AR in both children and adults.

Results

We included 32 articles comprising 2,008,835 participants. The risk of bias was low (N = 20) or moderate (N = 12) and GRADE certainty of evidence was very low to low. Pooled cross‐sectional analyses indicated that obese children (OR = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.96–1.03, I2 = 0%), obese adults (OR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.92–1.33, I2 = 73%), overweight children (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.98–1.06, I2 = 35%), and overweight adults (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.90–1.40, I2 = 0%) showed similar odds of AR compared to controls. Additionally, longitudinal analyses did not identify any evidence for an association between overweight (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.85–1.24, I2 = 29%) or underweight (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.77–1.54, I2 = 72%) children and AR risk. These results remained largely robust across various subgroups and sensitivity assessments.

Conclusion

Abnormal BMI may not be associated with AR. This study adds to the expanding literature on the association between non‐normal BMI and atopic diseases. Further prospective studies are needed to explore the longitudinal relationship between BMI and AR and the effect of weight loss interventions on AR, given the limits of existing literature.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42024503589
First‐in‐Human Study of BAT4406F, an ADCC‐Enhanced Fully Humanized Anti‐CD20 Monoclonal Antibody in Patients With Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Yu Hai , Chen Yuancheng , Qi Yunpeng , Yang Haijing , Cao Guoying , Yang Wenbo , Li Size , Yang Xiaolei , Wang Hai , Zhang Jing , Chen Xiangjun
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare debilitating autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). This is the first‐in‐human dose‐escalation Phase I clinical study of BAT4406F, an antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC)‐enhanced fully humanized anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody, in Chinese NMOSD patients.

Patients and Methods

Using a “3 + 3” design and based on the planned algorithm of dose escalation, the enrolled NMOSD patients were sequentially assigned to one of the five dose‐escalation cohorts of BAT4406F with a single intravenous dose, and were then followed for a 6‐month observation period. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT), safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics, and immunogenicity of BAT4406F were investigated, and the efficacy of BAT4406F in NMOSD was also preliminarily explored.

Results

Fifteen Chinese NMOSD patients were enrolled to receive BAT4406F of escalated doses ranging from 20 to 750 mg. No subjects experienced DLT at the studied doses. BAT4406F injection exhibited favorable safety, with most of the adverse events (AE) of CTCAE Grade 1 or 2 in severity, and no Grade ≥ 3 adverse drug reactions (ADR) or serious adverse reactions occurred in any subjects. With the dose increase of BAT4406F, the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), area under concentration‐time curve from 0 to the last measurable timepoint (AUC0‐t) and area under concentration‐time curve from 0 to infinity (AUC0‐inf) showed an increasing trend, whereas the mean clearance (CLt), terminal elimination rate (λZ), and apparent volume of distribution (Vd) decreased. The mean elimination half‐life (T1/2) was ranged from 9.0–16.4 days. PK profile of BAT4406F was generally nonlinear. BAT4406F led to a rapid and significant B‐cell depletion in all dose groups. Single administration of 500 mg or 750 mg maintains the CD19+ B lymphocyte count below 10/μL within the whole 6‐month observation period. Three subjects were antidrug antibody (ADA) positive and all of them were neutralizing antibody (NAb)‐negative. On day 99/180 postdose, several groups had decreased expanded disability status scale (EDSS) scores compared to baseline. During the observation period, NMOSD relapse occurred in two patients (13.3%) and the other 13 (86.7%) subjects remained relapse free.

Conclusion

BAT4406F was well tolerated at doses up to 750 mg and showed an expected pharmacodynamic effect of significant and long‐term depletion of CD19+ B lymphocytes. It has also shown preliminary evidence of activity in NMOSD maintenance treatment, warranting further investigations.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04146285
CT‐Based Lung Size Matching in Delayed Chest Closure for Systemic Sclerosis Lung Transplantation
Authors: Singh Jatin , Meng Xin , Leader Joseph K. , Ryan John , Chan Ernest G. , Shigemura Norihisa , Hage Chadi A. , Sanchez Pablo G. , Pu Jiantao
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Delayed chest closure (DCC) during lung transplantation (LTx) is a controversial surgical approach that lacks research in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients. We investigated outcomes, clinical risk factors, and CT‐based lung size‐matching parameters associated with DCC in SSc recipients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 92 SSc recipients (age 51 years ± 10, 56/92 (61.0%) females) who underwent bilateral LTx between 2007 and 2020. Of the recipients, 34.8% (32/92) underwent DCC. Recipient lung and chest cavity volumes were automatically computed from CT imaging using deep learning algorithms. Survival between groups was compared using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors and predict DCC occurrence using preoperative variables.

Results

Recipients who underwent DCC had longer total vent duration (p = 0.001), more use of postoperative mechanical support (p = 0.001), longer ICU length of stay (p = 0.008), and lower incidence of pneumonia post‐operation (p = 0.031). No significant difference in survival was observed between DCC and PCC recipients at 30 days (p = 0.713), 90 days (p = 0.267), 1 year (p = 0.941), and 5 years (p = 0.651). Clinical risk factors for DCC included BMI > 30 kg/m2 (p = 0.009), tracheostomy (p = 0.002), atrial fibrillation (p = 0.012), decreased preoperative FEV1/FVC (p = 0.013), and previous chest operation (p = 0.020). Two CT‐based measurements of lung matching were significantly associated with DCC occurrence (p = 0.021 and 0.050). The regression model achieved a mean AUC of 0.82 (0.70, 0.94) in retrospectively predicting DCC occurrence.

Conclusion

SSc recipients undergoing DCC have similar survival rates but experience more complications than PCC recipients. Clinical risk factors and CT‐based size matching can be leveraged to predict DCC pre‐transplant.
Effect of in utero exposure to antiepileptic drugs on cortical networks and neurophysiological outcomes at 6 years
Authors: König Sebastian , Yrjölä Pauliina , Auno Sami , Videman Mari , Vanhatalo Sampsa , Tokariev Anton
Published: November 2024

Objective

The human brain undergoes an activity‐dependent organization during late gestation, making it very sensitive to all effects on the spontaneous neuronal activity. Pregnant mothers with epilepsy are treated with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) that may reach the fetus and cause altered cortical network activity after birth. However, it is not known whether these functional effects of intrauterine AED exposure persist later in childhood.

Methods

We studied cortical activity networks computed from electroencephalographic recordings during sleep of 25, 6‐year‐old children with in utero exposure to AEDs and 21 without exposure. The frequency‐specific networks were determined for N1 and N2 sleep states, and the study groups were compared for sleep‐state–specific changes and dynamic differences between sleep states. Finally, we correlated these difference networks with the children's neurophysiological performance at 6 years.

Results

We found brain‐wide changes in the cortical activity networks and their sleep‐state dynamics in the children with intrauterine AED exposure. Moreover, the strength of cortical network connectivity was significantly associated with multiple domains of neurocognitive performance, in particular, verbal comprehension, processing speed, and IQ. Our findings together suggest that fetal AED exposure causes very long‐lasting changes in the cortical networks with significant links to early school‐age cognitive performance.

Significance

AED treatment of pregnant mothers is indicated for maternal health reasons; however, the long‐term neurodevelopmental effects on the offspring are poorly understood. Our present study shows that in utero exposure to AEDs causes persisting changes in the cortical activity networks, which can be measured with electroencephalography at 6 years of age. Moreover, these network changes correlate to the child's neurocognitive performance at the same age. These findings together suggest a pathway for how fetal drug exposures may cause persisting and neurocognitively meaningful changes in cortical connectivity patterns.
Multiscale Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Distribution of Marine Fish Larvae—Patchiness and Predator–Prey Overlap
Authors: Munk Peter , Lindegren Martin
Published: November 2024

The distribution of fish larvae and other planktonic organisms is highly heterogenous and influenced by a complex interplay of physical, behavioural and ecological processes operating across different scales. Information on patterns and scale of resulting patchiness in plankton distributions is pivotal for understanding the bio‐physical linkages, trophodynamics and ecological strategies in the marine pelagic environment. In this study, we examine the distribution and degree of patchiness of four fish larvae species and their copepod prey, placing specific emphasis on the scale of patterns in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. Our sampling effort encompassed a 120 km long transect of stations covering a frontal area in the southern North Sea, employing depth‐stratified net sampling at varying station distances. Our results show distinct distributional patterns and migratory behaviours among different taxa of both larvae and their copepod prey, yet some commonalities were apparent. Across all species, we observed increased patchiness at larger spatial scales, significantly influenced by day/night fluctuations and hydrography. The overall findings highlight the dynamic nature of patch distributions and underscore the strong impact of hydrographic interfaces, whether vertically oriented pycnoclines or horizontally structured hydrographic fronts. These insights into bio‐physical linkages deepen our understanding of the mechanisms driving larval survival, prey availability and overall ecosystem dynamics.
Group text messaging as a residency teaching tool in outpatient neurology and headache: A mixed‐methods observational study
Authors: Song Anjeli , Safdieh Joseph E. , Robbins Matthew S.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess the feasibility and efficacy of group text messaging as a teaching tool to improve neurology resident knowledge and clinical pearl dissemination in an outpatient setting enriched with headache encounters, and to evaluate if learning points from this teaching method would influence resident care of subsequent patients.

Background

Inpatient neurology teaching during training is most often accomplished in team settings during rounds or conferences such as morning report, but outpatient teaching where headache is more likely encountered may be less consistently performed in such a setting where learning points may be shared. Few studies have evaluated whether group text messaging can be an innovative tool for teaching in residency training.

Methods

Neurology residents in a continuity clinic pod at New York Presbyterian‐Weill Cornell were included in this cohort from December 2020 through March 2024. Group text messages deidentified of any patient information were sent to the resident pod by their preceptor after each clinic session featuring one text message regarding a takeaway learning point pertaining to each patient encounter. Residents were surveyed on their satisfaction with this teaching method and whether these text messages improved their outpatient neurology knowledge.

Results

A total of 230 text messages were sent to a cohort of 21 residents across 4 academic years. Text message topics covered a variety of neurological subspecialties, most commonly headache and facial pain (44.8%), general neurology (15.7%), and neuromuscular (14.3%). In our survey, 93% of resident respondents reported that receiving clinical pearls improved their outpatient neurology knowledge and changed how they cared for subsequent patients.

Conclusion

Reinforcement of traditionally one‐on‐one learning points in a teaching outpatient setting to engage a group of residents was feasible across visit types. There was an overall very positive response to this teaching method, and residents reported improved knowledge, which influenced their care of subsequent patients.
International Council of Nurses 2025 Congress: Nursing power to change the world
Authors: Fokeladeh Hoi Shan , Montayre Jed , Stewart David
Published: November 2024

The International Council of Nurses (ICN) 2025 Congress, themed “Nursing Power to Change the World,” will convene in Helsinki, Finland, from 9 to 13 June 2025. This landmark event celebrates a century of nursing progress and addresses contemporary challenges in healthcare. The Congress emphasises the pivotal role of nurses in enhancing healthcare equity, accessibility, and outcomes, aligning with global health policy goals such as Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It will feature contributions from key international organisations like the WHO and the International Committee of the Red Cross, highlighting the event's global significance. With over 10 000 abstract submissions, the Congress promises a rich scientific programme, fostering knowledge exchange and professional development. Subthemes will explore nursing leadership, healthcare quality, education and the impact of transformative technologies. The Congress will also focus on advocacy, providing a platform for policy discussions on pressing global health issues. Networking opportunities will connect nurses with peers and leaders, promoting collaboration and career advancement. The inclusion of nursing students and early‐career professionals underscores the commitment to nurturing the next generation of nurses. The ICN 2025 Congress is a call to action for nurses worldwide to lead transformative change in healthcare, ensuring the profession remains dynamic and influential. Join us in Helsinki to celebrate the power of nursing and explore the many ways in which nurses can lead the change in advancing global health.
RSV Disease Burden in Older Adults: An Italian Multiregion Pilot Study of Acute Respiratory Infections in Primary Care Setting, Winter Season 2022–2023
Authors: Bracaloni Sara , Esposito Enrica , Scarpaci Michela , Cosci Tommaso , Casini Beatrice , Chiovelli Federica , Arzilli Guglielmo , Pistello Mauro , Panatto Donatella , Ogliastro Matilde , Loconsole Daniela , Chironna Maria , Rizzo Caterina ,   RSVComNet Italy
Published: November 2024

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of hospital admission in adults over 65, leading to severe complications and death. However, the disease burden in primary care for older adults in Europe is poorly understood. This pilot study aims to test a study protocol for evaluating the clinical burden of RSV in older adults in primary care settings in Italy.

Methods

In the 2022–23 winter season, we designed a study on RSV burden in individuals over 65 with acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Liguria, Apulia, and Tuscany, Italy. Recruited patients underwent nasopharyngeal swabs for RSV confirmation and provided epidemiological and clinical data. RSV‐positive patients completed follow‐up questionnaires after 14 and 30 days regarding their clinical conditions, healthcare utilization, and socio‐economic impact.

Results

We enrolled 152 patients with ARIs; 33 (21.7%) tested positive for RSV. The median disease duration was 14 days, with 3% hospitalized. Among RSV‐positive patients, 87% received drug treatment, 52% of whom received antibiotics. After diagnosis, 74% required further GP consultations within 2 weeks. Additionally, 48% incurred extra costs. On day 30, 21% reported health complications or deterioration.

Conclusions

Our pilot study highlights the need for an ARIs surveillance system for older adults in primary care. This is crucial for defining vaccination strategies to reduce the disease burden on these patients and the healthcare system. Moreover, these data are essential for assessing costs and parameters for cost‐effectiveness models, facilitating informed decisions in public health planning and resource allocation.
From Germination to Stagnation: Sodium Diacetate's Impact on Clostridium perfringens Spores
Authors: Liu Shengnan , Liang Dong , Li Miaoyun , Hong Niancheng , Zhu Yaodi , Zhao Lijun , Zhao Gaiming
Published: November 2024

Sodium diacetate is recognized for its high efficiency as a preservative, demonstrating strong antibacterial properties that help extend the shelf life of food products. However, it is still unclear how it influences spores. This research investigated the influence of sodium diacetate on the germination and outgrowth stage in the revival process of Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens) spores. The germination and outgrowth rate of spores after sodium diacetate treatment were measured. The changes of spore inner membrane were monitored by laser confocal microscope, electron scanning microscope and macromolecular leakage. The interaction between sodium diacetate and DNA was investigated by EB fluorescence probe, and the finding was verified by the outgrowth of spores in ham sausage. An investigation into the effects of sodium diacetate treatment on the biological activity, inner membrane permeability, morphology, and DNA integrity of spores devoid of both the coat and cortex revealed that sodium diacetate significantly hindered the transition of germinated spores into vegetative cells. In the presence of sodium diacetate, C. perfringens spores underwent germination, characterized by the hydrolysis of the spore cortex and the disassembly of the spore coat. As the spores advanced into the outgrowth phase, sodium diacetate penetrated their structure, causing damage to the inner membrane and compromising DNA integrity. Moreover, sodium diacetate was demonstrated to effectively inhibit spore outgrowth in ham sausage. This study provided theoretical guidance and references for the application of sodium diacetate in food to control the germination and outgrowth of spore‐forming bacteria.
Deprescribing considerations for central nervous system‐active polypharmacy in patients with dementia
Authors: Hung Anna , Growdon Matthew E.
Published: November 2024

See related article by Vordenberg et al.
Evaluation of the In Vivo Skin Penetration of TXVector by Confocal Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Winn Daniel , Gilreath Andrea , Pajuelo David , Meissner Justyna M. , Mullor Jose L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a promising active to treat hyperpigmentation disorders, such as melasma and acne scars. However, TXA is highly hydrophilic and its penetration into the skin is poor and formulation dependent.

Aims

In this study, our aim was to evaluate the in vivo skin penetration of an ester‐modified TXA, TXVector, directly on the skin of volunteers.

Methods

For the analysis of in vivo skin penetration of TXVector, we used in vivo confocal Raman spectroscopy (CRS). The use of CRS on live skin allows us to study directly how a compound affects skin composition at different depths and how this compound penetrates into the skin in real time.

Results

Our results showed that the TXA absorption into the skin via TXVector was 2.1‐fold and 3.8‐fold higher compared to free TXA 3% and TXA 1% formulations, respectively. Most importantly, upon application of TXVector, the TXA penetration flux into the skin was 107% and 280% higher than that of the free TXA 3% and TXA 1% formulations, respectively.

Conclusions

In summary, this study shows that the esterification‐based TXVector formulation enhances the penetration flux of TXA and increases its bioavailability in the skin.
Predictive Factors for Swallowing Function Decline in Older Adults With Alzheimer's Disease: A 1‐Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Shirobe Maki , Edahiro Ayako , Motokawa Keiko , Morishita Shiho , Ohara Yuki , Watanabe Yutaka , Iwasaki Masanori , Hirano Hirohiko
Published: November 2024

Background

By 2060, the global burden of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD), is expected to increase significantly, necessitating effective palliative care strategies. Dysphagia, a common condition among people with dementia, leads to malnutrition, aspiration pneumonia, and a reduced quality of life.

Objective

This study aimed to identify oral health management factors that could predict a decline in swallowing function in older adults with AD.

Methods

Data from the Akita–Omorimachi study, which included 63 adults diagnosed with AD, were analysed. Swallowing function was assessed using the modified water‐swallowing test (MWST) at baseline and after 1 year.

Results

The results indicated that 25.4% of participants exhibited a decline in swallowing function, as indicated by a decrease from the highest MWST score of 5 at baseline to a lower score at follow‐up. Poisson regression analysis revealed that refusal of oral care (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 7.28), tongue coating (IRR: 4.21), and unclear articulation of /ka/ (IRR: 5.79) were significant predictors of swallowing function decline. The participants with these indicators had a higher risk of developing dysphagia.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that factors related to specific oral health problems may predict poor swallowing function in older adults with AD. Moreover, implementing targeted oral care interventions, including person‐centered care and regular tongue cleaning, may improve the outcomes in this vulnerable population. Despite the limitations of this study, including a small sample size, the results underscore the importance of comprehensive oral health management in preventing dysphagia‐related complications.
Predictive factors associated with short‐term mortality in cats with feline infectious peritonitis treated with remdesivir or GS‐441524 or both
Authors: Goto Sho , Kamiyoshi Tsuyoshi , Iwasaki Ryota
Published: November 2024

Background

Although most cats with feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) respond to treatment with remdesivir or GS‐441524 or both with uneventful clinical courses, some die despite treatment.

Objective

Identify predictive factors associated with short‐term mortality in cats with FIP treated with IV remdesivir or PO GS‐441524 or both.

Animals

A total of 108 client‐owned cats with FIP.

Methods

Retrospective multicenter study using data collected from medical records. Factors associated with short‐term mortality, defined as death within 84 days, were identified. Univariate analysis a t‐test, Mann‐Whitney U test, or Fisher's exact test and multivariate logistic regression were performed to assess patient characteristics and clinicopathological variables between survivors and nonsurvivors.

Results

The short‐term mortality rate was 12.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.6%‐19.7%). Univariate analysis identified plasma lactate dehydrogenase activity (LDH; P < .001) and bilirubin concentration (P = .001) as being significantly increased in nonsurvivors, whereas concentrations of albumin (P = .003), total protein (P = .03), sodium (P = .005), and potassium (P = .005) were significantly lower. Additionally, nonsurvivors were significantly less likely to be febrile (≥39.4°C; P = .006). Of these variables, only plasma LDH activity ≥323 U/L, a cut‐point determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, was significantly associated with short‐term mortality by multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 15.30; 95% CI, 1.18‐198.00; P = .04).

Conclusion

Increased plasma LDH activity might be useful for predicting short‐term mortality, guiding monitoring, and establishing prognosis in cats with FIP.
Overview and progress in promoting the rule of law at the Latin America and Caribbean level
Authors: Dueñas Carlos Cerda
Published: November 2024

In 2015, heads of state and government, and high representatives adopted the post‐2015 development agenda, known today as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Target 16.3 promotes the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensures equal access to justice for all. This article focuses on the inclusion of the rule of law in the sustainable development goals in Latin America. The central theme is the absence of an indicator to measure progress and the analysis of possible reasons for having omitted the tools that have already been developed for this purpose.
The Role of Endoscopic Ultrasound in Assessing Portal Hypertension: A State‐of‐the‐Art Literature Review and Evolving Perspectives
Authors: Termite Fabrizio , Borrelli de Andreis Federica , Liguori Antonio , Gasbarrini Antonio , Attili Fabia , Spada Cristiano , Miele Luca
Published: November 2024

Background

Portal hypertension (PH) is a critical complication in patients with hepatic diseases. Its accurate evaluation is essential for early diagnosis, risk stratification, and management. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has emerged as a promising diagnostic tool, offering high‐resolution imaging of the portal venous system, hepatic vasculature, and surrounding structures.

Aims

This review aims at providing an overview of the evolving role of EUS in PH evaluation in patients with liver disease.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Google Scholar until 31 May 2024. Relevant studies were identified using keywords related to EUS and PH. Additional references were included based on expert knowledge and citation analysis. Only full‐length papers and abstracts in English were considered. Results: EUS demonstrates significant utility in PH assessment, offering high‐resolution imaging and advanced tools like contrast enhancement (CE) and shear‐wave elastography (SWE) for evaluating liver stiffness and correlating it with PH severity. EUS‐guided portal pressure gradient (PPG) measurement provides a less invasive method for evaluating PH, potentially offering a safer alternative to conventional techniques.

Discussion

EUS offers unique advantages in PH assessment, enabling comprehensive evaluation in a single session. Despite its potential, limitations such as invasiveness, sedation‐related variability, and restricted availability persist. Emerging techniques require further validation in larger cohorts and standardised training.

Conclusion

EUS is a valuable diagnostic tool for PH evaluation, with the potential to improve outcomes through earlier diagnosis and better stratification. Addressing its limitations through further research and standardised protocols is critical to optimize its clinical utility.

Trial Registration: NCT04115046, NCT05728697, NCT05097963 and NCT03155282
Paleobotany reframes the fiery debate on Australia's rainforest edges
Authors: Wilf Peter , Kooyman Robert M.
Published: November 2024

The tall eucalypt forests (TEFs) of the Australian tropics are often portrayed as threatened by ‘invasive’ neighboring rainforests, requiring ‘protective’ burning. This framing overlooks that Australian rainforests have suffered twice the historical losses of TEFs and ignores the ecological and paleobiological significance of rainforest margins. Early Eocene fossils from Argentina show that biodiverse rainforests with abundant Eucalyptus existed > 50 million years ago (Ma) in West Gondwana, shaped by nonfire disturbance factors such as landslides and volcanic flows. Humid volcanic environments with eucalypts were also present in eastern Australia over much of the Cenozoic. The dominance of fire‐adapted eucalypts appears to be geologically recent and is linked to Neogene C4 grassland expansion, Pleistocene climate cycles, and human activity. We suggest that characterizing TEFs and rainforests as adversarial results from misinterpreting the evolutionary history and expansion‐contraction dynamics of a single humid forest system, whose features are now heavily modified by human activities. The resulting management practices damage the outstanding World Heritage values and carbon storage of affected areas and thus have impacts far beyond Australia. The fossil evidence shows that rainforest margins preserve ancient, still evolving, and globally significant forest interactions that should be prioritized for restoration and research.
In Utero Shocks and Health at Birth: The Distorting Effect of Fetal Losses
Authors: Hajdu Tamás
Published: November 2024

Research on the effect of in utero shocks on health at birth may be influenced by in utero selection. This study outlines a conceptual framework and shows that the results of the standard empirical approach are biased if (i) the exposure changes the probability of fetal death and (ii) health differences exist between deceased and surviving fetuses. Furthermore, an empirical example is provided to illustrate the potential importance of fetal selection. Examining the effect of heat on birth weight, I find that accounting for fetal selection substantially increases the heat effect compared to the standard approach. These results suggest that, in some cases, incorporating the distorting effect of fetal losses into the estimations may be critical to providing more informed guidance for public policy.
Beyond Economics and Culture: A Demographic Perspective on Contraceptive Theory
Authors: Sawadogo Nathalie , Bassinga Hervé , Ngo Bayong Ngock Adèle M. , Han Zhuang , Giroux Sarah C. , Eloundou‐Enyegue Parfait M.
Published: November 2024

Theories of contraception and fertility are currently dominated by economic and cultural arguments. A demographic perspective can usefully expand these theories through “addition,” “explication,” and “reconciliation.” The addition is about drawing attention to salient demographic forces that have previously been underconsidered whether these forces operate at the macro, meso, or microlevels. Explication is about adding explanatory flesh to proximate economic or cultural influences, which can themselves result from more fundamental demographic changes. Finally, reconciliation is about moving beyond an “economy ‐OR‐ culture” binary to seek complementarities and synergies. Decomposition methods inspired by a demographic perspective help such reconciliation. They offer handy empirical tools for assessing how economic, cultural, and demographic forces jointly shape changes in national rates of contraception, and how their contributions may change over time. Thus, demographic perspectives are not offered as a substitute but as an avenue to integrate cultural, economic, and demographic perspectives and to foster richer contextual analysis.
A Stinkbug Salivary Protein Is Indispensable for Insect Feeding and Activates Plant Immunity
Authors: Wang Guoyi , Hu Biao , Yao Xiang , Wei Zhongyan , Chen Jianping , Sun Zongtao
Published: November 2024

Salivary proteins secreted by phytophagous insects play pivotal roles in plant–insect interactions. A salivary protein RpSP27, from the stinkbug Riptortus pedestris, a devastating pest on soybean, was selected for studying due to its ability to induce cell death and activate immune responses in plants. RpSP27 localized to the endoplasmic reticulum and triggered reactive oxygen species burst. Virus‐induced gene silencing assays showed RAR1 plays an essential role in RpSP27‐induced cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana. Expression analyses revealed that RpSP27 is predominantly expressed in R. pedestris salivary glands. RNA interference‐mediated silencing of RpSP27 in R. pedestris significantly reduced insect survival rates and altered feeding behavior by decreasing the formation of salivary sheaths on soybeans and reducing probing and feeding duration. Furthermore, the silencing of RpSP27 in R. pedestris mitigated the staygreen syndrome in soybeans, characterized by delayed senescence and pod abnormalities. This study elucidated the role of RpSP27 in the interaction between R. pedestris and soybean, presenting a potential target for pest management strategies to protect soybean crops from the detrimental effects of R. pedestris feeding.
Understanding and Managing Vulvar Psoriasis in Girls: Findings From a Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Michelle , Fischer Gayle
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives

Pediatric vulvar psoriasis in girls is under‐recognized and under‐treated due to its nonspecific clinical appearance. This paper aims to describe the signs and symptoms of pediatric vulvar psoriasis and treatment strategies used by our group.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken at a private pediatric dermatology referral practice from January 2016 to December 2022. Clinical data were prospectively collected and recorded in an online patient database. Treatment regimens were individualized and titrated to clinical response.

Results

In 100 girls with vulvar psoriasis, the most common presentation was an erythematous vulvar eruption (97%) which was well‐demarcated in 52% of children and appeared as a plaque in one‐fourth. The perianal skin was involved in 48% of cases. Extragenital psoriasis was present in 69% of patients. Most children responded to initial induction treatment with moderate‐potency topical corticosteroid ointment followed by maintenance with topical tar solution. Systemic treatment was not required for purely vulvar psoriasis compared with 3% of children with extragenital psoriasis.

Conclusion

Vulvar psoriasis in girls presents as a chronic erythematous vulvitis, with perianal involvement in half the cases, but without vaginitis. It is a remitting and relapsing skin condition that requires long‐term topical management.
Knowledge Levels and Health Beliefs of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Population About Human Papilloma Virus and Vaccine
Authors: Gönenç İlknur Münevver , Sezer Neslihan Yılmaz , Alişan Sait
Published: November 2024

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) transmission routes place all individuals at equal risk; however, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals are disproportionately affected due to barriers in accessing health services and the impact of stigma, making it crucial to understand their health beliefs and knowledge levels.

Methods

This descriptive study aimed to assess the knowledge levels and health beliefs of LGBTQ individuals regarding HPV and its vaccine. The study, conducted between November 2020 and March 2021, was reported according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guideline. Three hundred and twenty‐three individuals who agreed to participate in the study during this date range were included in the study using the snowball sampling method. Personal information form, HPV Infection Knowledge Scale, and Health Belief Model Scale were used as data collection tools.

Results

The mean scores of participants on the HPV Knowledge Scale were 3.42 ± 2.24. Of the participants, 39.6% reported no prior knowledge of the HPV vaccine, and among those who had heard of the vaccine, 88.2% had not received it. The mean scores of participants who had received the vaccine were higher on perceived severity, perceived benefits, and perceived susceptibility sub‐dimensions than those who had not, while the mean scores on perceived barriers were lower (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study finds that LGBTQ individuals have insufficient knowledge about HPV and are less likely to have received the HPV vaccine. However, low perceived barriers and high perceptions of the benefits, severity, and susceptibility of HPV vaccination can enhance preventive behaviors. Nurses should offer counseling and information to improve LGBTQ individuals' perceptions of the HPV vaccine, thereby increasing preventive actions against HPV infection.
Dynamics for a Diffusive Epidemic Model With a Free Boundary: Spreading Speed
Authors: Li Xueping , Li Lei , Wang Mingxin
Published: November 2024

We study the spreading speed of a diffusive epidemic model proposed by Li et al. [Dynamics for a diffusive epidemic model with a free boundary: spreading‐vanishing dichotomy, Zeitschrift für Angewandte Mathematik und Physik 75 (2024): Article No. 202], where the Stefan boundary condition is imposed at the right boundary, and the left boundary is subject to the homogeneous Dirichlet and Neumann condition, respectively. A spreading‐vanishing dichotomy and some sharp criteria were obtained in Li et al. In this paper, when spreading happens, we not only obtain the exact spreading speed of the spreading front described by the right boundary, but derive some sharp estimates on the asymptotical behavior of solution component . Our arguments depend crucially on some detailed understandings for a corresponding semi‐wave problem and a steady‐state problem.
Clinical management of chronic wound infections: The battle against biofilm
Authors: Hurlow Jennifer , Wolcott Randall D. , Bowler Philip G.
Published: November 2024

Bacteria constitute the most abundant life form on earth, of which the majority exist in a protective biofilm state. Since the 1980s, we have learned much about the role of biofilm in human chronic infections, with associated global healthcare costs recently estimated at ~$386 billion. Chronic wound infection is a prominent biofilm‐induced condition that is characterised by persistent inflammation and associated host tissue destruction, and clinical signs that are distinct from signs of acute wound infection. Biofilm also enables greater tolerance to antimicrobial agents in chronic wound infections compared with acute wound infections. Given the difficulty in eliminating wound biofilm, a multi‐targeted strategy (namely biofilm‐based wound care) involving debridement and antimicrobial therapies were introduced and have been practiced since the early 2000s. More recently, acknowledgement of the speed at which biofilm can develop and hence quickly interfere with wound healing has highlighted the need for an early anti‐biofilm strategy to combat biofilm before it takes control and prevents wound healing. This strategy, referred to as wound hygiene, involves multiple tools in combination (debridement, cleansing, and antimicrobial dressings) to maximise success in biofilm removal and encourage wound healing. This review is intended to highlight the issues and challenges associated with biofilm‐induced chronic infections, and specifically address the challenges in chronic wound management, and tools required to combat biofilm and encourage wound healing.
The Validity of Generalized Modal Syllogisms with the Quantifiers in Square {most} and Square{no}
Authors: Xu Jing , Wang Yuzhen
Published: November 2024

On the basis of the valid generalized modal syllogism £EM¯O-2 containing the quantifiers in Square{most} and Square{no}, this paper explores the validity of the other generalized modal syllogisms. The reasons of the reducibility between/among valid generalized modal syllogisms are: that there are transformational relationships between/among Aristotelian quantifiers in Square{no} or generalized ones in Square{most}, and that the necessary modality and the possible one are dual, and that the quantifiers some and no are symmetric. This method is universal, and helps to study the validity of other kinds of syllogisms. It is hoped that the above results can promote the development of related fields such as computational linguistics.
Social Network of Urban Labor Force: Attributes and Measurement
Authors: Guo Xu , Han Yueqi , Zhao Shuai , Wu Mengya
Published: November 2024

Individuals connect with society through both emotional and obligatory relationships, as well as cooperative relationships rooted in the social division of labor. This study introduces the concepts of open and closed networks to capture these distinct relational pathways and characterizes social networks in terms of breadth, closeness, and trust. Using data from the 2012 China General Social Survey and a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) approach, we construct a comprehensive social network index for both open and closed networks. The results reveal that larger cities in China exhibit stronger open networks, whereas smaller cities are dominated by closed networks. Further empirical analysis of influencing factors supports these findings. These results align with China's stage of urbanization and provide new insights into social network dynamics in other transitional economies.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Social Science Studies, Vol. 12, No. 6
Authors: Young James
Published: November 2024

International Journal of Social Science Studies (IJSSS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether IJSSS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 12, Number 6Encarnación ABAD ARENAS, National University of Distance Education (UNED), SpainFahri ÖZSUNGUR, Adana Science and Technology University, TurkeyKun Yu, Universiti Putra Malaysia, ChinaMei-Ling Lin, National Open University, TaiwanSana Ali, Allama Iqbal Open University, Pakistan, and Birmingham City University, United Kingdom, PakistanWEILONG Li, ASCENTGENE INC, USA        James YoungEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of International Journal of Social Science StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://ijsss.redfame.com
Utility of ocean wave parameters in ambient noise prediction
Authors: Rogers W. Erick , Fialkowski Laurie T. , Brooker Daniel J. , Panteleev Gleb , Fialkowski Joseph M.
Published: November 2024

This study is concerned with prediction of the “wind noise” component of ambient noise (AN) in the ocean. It builds on the seminal paper by Felizardo and Melville [(1995). J. Phys. Oceanogr. 25, 513–532], in which the authors quantified the correlation between AN and individual wind/wave parameters. Acoustic data are obtained from hydrophones at six diverse locations, and wind/wave parameters are obtained from moored buoys and numerical models. We describe a procedure developed for this study that identifies correlation of AN with wave parameters, independent of their mutual correlation with wind speed. We then describe paired calibration/prediction experiments, whereby multiple wind/wave parameters are used simultaneously to estimate AN. We find that the improvement from inclusion of wave parameters is robust but marginal; typically, root mean square error (RMSE) is reduced by less than 0.3 dB and/or less than 12% of the original RMSE. We interpret the latter outcome as suggesting that wave breaking responds to changes in local winds quickly, relative to, for example, total wave energy, which develops more slowly. This outcome is consistent with prior observations of wave breaking, e.g., Babanin [(2011). Breaking and Dissipation of Ocean Surface Waves (Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK), Chap. 3]. We discuss this in context of the time/space response of various wave parameters to wind forcing.
TCF1 dosage determines cell fate during T cell development
Authors: Verma Anjali , Aylward Bridget , Ma Fei , Sherman Cheryl A. , Chopp Laura , Shinton Susan , Roy Roshni , Fahl Shawn , Contreras Alejandra , Koenitzer Byron , Awasthi Parirokh , Mazan-Mamczarz Krystyna , De Supriyo , Ollikainen Noah , Qiu Xiang , Bosselut Remy , Sen Ranjan , Wiest David L. , Sen Jyoti Misra
Published: November 2024

Loss-of-function studies have shown that transcription factor T cell factor-1 (TCF1), encoded by the
Tcf7
gene, is essential for T cell development in the thymus. We discovered that the
Tcf7
expression level is regulated by E box DNA binding proteins, independent of Notch, and regulates αβ and γδ T cell development. Systematic interrogation of the five E protein binding elements (EPE1–5) in the
Tcf7
enhancer region showed lineage-specific utilization. Specifically, loss-of-function analysis revealed that only EPE3 plays a critical role in supporting αβ T cell development, while EPE1, 3, and 5 regulate the γδ T cell maturation and functional cell fate decision. The importance of EPE3 in supporting both lineages may stem from its unique capacity to interact with the
Tcf7
transcriptional start site. Together, these studies demonstrate that the precise dosage of TCF1 expression mediated by distinct EPEs generates a balanced output of T cells from the thymus.
Projections from subfornical organ to bed nucleus of the stria terminalis modulate inflammation-induced anxiety-like behaviors in mice
Authors: Zhang Jinlin , Xie Chuantong , Xu Peiyao , Tong Qiuping , Xiao Lei , Zhong Jing
Published: November 2024

Peripheral inflammation is closely related to the pathogenesis of sickness behaviors and psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. The circumventricular organs (CVOs) are important brain sites to perceive peripheral inflammatory signals, but few studies have reported their role in inflammation-induced anxiety or depression. Using a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)–induced inflammation, we identified a previously unreported role of the subfornical organ (SFO), one of the CVOs, in combating inflammation-induced anxiety. LPS treatment induced anxiety-like and sickness behaviors in mice. Although both the SFO and the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis (a CVO) neurons were activated after LPS treatment, only manipulating SFO neurons modulated LPS-induced anxiety-like behaviors. Activating or inhibiting SFO neurons alleviated or aggravated LPS-induced anxiety-like behaviors. In addition, SFO exerted this effect through glutamatergic projections to the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. Manipulating SFO neurons did not affect LPS-induced sickness behaviors. Thus, we uncovered an active role of SFO neurons in counteracting peripheral inflammation-induced anxiety.