bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attention allocation: An empirical analysis of the asymmetric market responses to information shocks in China
Authors: Gao Ya , Han Xing , Li Youwei , Vigne Samuel A. , Xiong Xiong
Published: January 2025

Attention allocation—investors allocate their attention disproportionately within a day—has implications on how the market responds to information. Using high‐frequency jumps detected in China, we show that the market underreacts to overnight information shocks, and the underreaction stems mainly from the short‐leg stocks with highly negative overnight jumps. In comparison, the market overreacts to intraday information shocks, and the overreaction stems mainly from the long‐leg stocks with highly positive intraday jumps. Moreover, the underreaction pattern strengthens while the overreaction pattern attenuates during market crashes, as investors pay limited attention when market performance is poor. Overall, these patterns are consistent with the interplay between attention allocation and investor sophistication in reshaping the asymmetric market reactions to information.
Stock and Market Status of High‐Valued Blackspotted Croaker (Protonibea diacanthus) in Bangladesh
Authors: Barua Suman , Liu Qun , Chen Xu , Eleneen Eman A. Abo
Published: January 2025

The blackspotted croaker (Protonibea diacanthus) is among the highest‐valued commercial marine fish species in Bangladesh. Therefore, we assessed the stock status, economic significance, and market status of blackspotted croaker in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh. We estimated life history parameters and sustainability indicators to determine if the stock was being sustainably managed. Size of blackspotted croaker was significantly differ temporally. Blackspotted croaker increased in weight allometrically in relation to length. Length‐age life history parameters were L∞ = 161.16 cm, k = 0.39 year−1. Natural mortality M was 0.39 year−1 and fishing mortality F was 0.35 year−1. Catch composition and sustainably indicators revealed that the stock was prone to recruitment and growth overfishing. Medium to large sized blackspotted croaker (> 85 cm) fetched the highest price in commercial markets for the swim bladders that was worth many times more than the value of fillets. The highest demand of swim bladders in export commerce termed this species as marine gold to the fishers. Therefore, fishers were increasingly motivated to target the species. Ununiformed landing of blackspotted croaker, for domestic and international trade of swim bladder of blackspotted croaker, and poorly documented trading supply chains make this fishing industry luck‐driven. Management interventions are needed to sustain the fishery and economic value.
Screening for dysphagia in older people: A validation study of the psychometric properties of the Danish 4 Question Test (4QT‐DK)
Authors: Staal Sabina Mette , Christensen Karl Bang , Smithard David , Westergren Albert , Melgaard Dorte
Published: January 2025

Aim

The four‐item questionnaire test (4QT) is a simple screening measure of dysphagia for older people. A positive answer to any item indicates the need for further assessment. The 4QT is fast, simple to apply and requires no training beforehand. However, it is not translated to Danish, and the psychometric properties in an older Danish population are unknown. The aim was to translate the 4QT to Danish, determine criterion validity according to the existing measures, the Minimal Eating Observation Form‐II (MEOF‐II) and Volume‐Viscosity Swallow Test (V‐VST), and determine construct and structural validity and reliability by exploring whether 4QT fits the assumptions of the Rasch model.

Methods

The 4QT was translated and back‐translated. A total of 73 participants aged ≥65 years were included and screened with the 4QT‐DK, and assessed using the V‐VST and MEOF‐II. Criterion validity was assessed compared with the V‐VST and MEOF‐II according to sensitivity, specificity and predictive values. Construct and structural validity were examined using confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch model analysis investigating item and person fit, differential item functioning for sex, age, primary disease and local dependency. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's coefficient alpha.

Results

For criterion validity, the 4QT‐DK showed high sensitivity (84% and 90% with the V‐VST and MEOF‐II, respectively). As expected, specificity was lower (36%, and 42%). Analyses confirmed the psychometric validity of the 4QT‐DK. Reliability was low (Cronbach's alpha = 0.58) due to the number of items.

Conclusion

The 4QT‐DK is a valid and sensitive measure for screening older people for dysphagia. Further studies are required to assess the psychometric properties and confirm findings in a larger Danish sample. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 294–299.
The Challenging Process of Developing an Antenatal Social Intervention for Parents From Culturally Diverse Backgrounds to Reduce Postnatal Distress: A Participatory Action Research Study
Authors: Isobel Sophie , Dixon Kahala , Tutt Alison , Clay Bridget , Lim‐Gibson Sylvia
Published: January 2025

Background

A lack of social support contributes to women from culturally diverse backgrounds experiencing higher rates of perinatal distress and lower rates of service engagement.

Objective/Methods

This participatory action research study aimed to understand what a culturally appropriate social intervention may look like for pregnant women from culturally diverse backgrounds. Field notes and qualitative transcripts were descriptively synthesised.

Results

Challenges of engaging with culturally diverse communities in the context of perinatal health services were identified. Cultural factors and practices were seen to impact upon service engagement, with parents more likely to seek support outside of health settings. Community members expressed frustrations with the lack of deep cultural sensitivity in the structure and delivery of health services. Clear definitions in scope and aim of any intervention were indicated, before further community engagement.

Discussion

Challenges in engaging individuals and services from diverse communities highlighted the risks of ideas embedded in oversimplified understandings based on cultural stereotypes and assumptions of homogeneity of experiences at the intersection of cultural diversity, perinatal distress and health services.

Conclusions

Deep cultural sensitivity requires an understanding of how members of population groups perceive and understand health and wellbeing to directly inform the development of any intervention. Attempting to design a culturally sensitive intervention for socially isolated and culturally diverse parents within mainstream health services, led to a paradoxical tension between attempting to address needs in culturally insensitive ways or not attempting to address the needs at all.

Patient or Public Contribution

Members of the public and people who identified as having lived experience of social isolation, cultural diversity or mental distress were engaged in the community consultation phase of the study.
Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation in Pediatric Acute Leukemia: Prevalence, Laboratory Features, and Prognostic Significance of ISTH Score
Authors: Al‐Khalaila Haya F. , Abbas Manal A. , Almaharma Muna A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is associated with acute leukemia. DIC prevalence and clinical consequences are complex and varies across acute leukemia subtypes. The International Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) scoring system is used for the detection of overt DIC.

Methods

Children of both sexes (1 day‐18 years) with acute leukemia, suspected to have DIC and referred to hematology laboratory were included in the study. DIC score was calculated according to ISTH guidelines from laboratory values obtained within 24 h of admission and repeated after 2 weeks. The DIC cases were classified into overt DIC if ISTH score ≤ 5 and non‐overt if ISTH score > 5.

Results

Sixty‐two children diagnosed with acute leukemia and having the clinical and laboratory diagnostic features of DIC along with 48 age‐matched healthy controls participated in the study. DIC was more frequently diagnosed in cases of AML (66.13%) compared to ALL (33.87%). Cases with T‐ALL had DIC (19.4%) more frequently than B‐ALL type (14.5%). Similarly, children with M5, M2, and M3 had DIC more frequently (16.1%, 15.58% and 14.28%, respectively) compared to other AML types. Overt DIC was observed in 71% of DIC cases with acute leukemia while non‐overt DIC was diagnosed in 29% of them. Follow‐up for 14 days of non‐overt cases showed that 12 out of 18 patients progressed from non‐overt to overt DIC with a significant increase in D‐dimer and a decline in platelets count. The incidence of bleeding (35.4%) was higher than thrombosis (19.4%) among acute leukemia patients with DIC. An ISTH score ≤ 5 predicted increased intensive care unit (ICU) admission, death and end organ dysfunction with odds ratio of 4.28, 6.77, and 6.67, respectively. Based on receiver–operator analysis of DIC cases classified as overt and non‐overt DIC based on ISTH score, D‐Dimer was excellent predictor of overt DIC with the high sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusion

ISTH score predicts death, ICU admission and organ dysfunction in children with acute leukemia. D‐Dimer is an excellent predictor of overt DIC in acute leukemia.
Prophylactic Peanut Allergen Ara h 6 Sublingual Immunotherapy Drives Expansion of FoxP3+Helios− Regulatory T Cells in the Absence of Allergen‐Specific IgA
Authors: Larsen Jeppe Madura , Lundsgaard Emma Alberte , Danneskiold‐Samsøe Niels Banhos , Sonne Si Brask , Rigby Neil Marcus , Mackie Alan Robert , Kristiansen Karsten , Bøgh Katrine Lindholm
Published: January 2025

Insights into the underlying immunological mechanisms of prophylactic sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) may support the development of new strategies for improved prevention and treatment of food allergy. Here, we investigated the humoral, regulatory and sublingual tissue immune response to prophylactic SLIT administration of a single purified peanut allergen in Brown Norway (BN) rats. BN rats received daily sublingual administration of peanut allergen Ara h 6 for three weeks. Suppression of sensitisation was evaluated by subsequent intraperitoneal administration of Ara h 6. Ara h 6‐specific IgE, IgA, IgG1 and IgG2a‐c levels were measured in serum. The frequency of regulatory T (Treg) cells was analysed using flow cytometry. The sublingual tissue response to Ara h 6 was analysed by transcriptional profiling using mRNA‐sequencing. Ara h 6 SLIT protected rats from subsequent sensitisation without inducing a detectable humoral immune response (Ara h 6‐specific IgE, IgA, IgG1 and IgG2a‐c) in serum. SLIT furthermore promoted the relative expansion of induced Helios− Treg cells within the conventional CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg population in sublingual draining lymph nodes and blood. In conclusion, prophylactic Ara h 6 SLIT drives the relative expansion of induced Helios− Treg cells in the absence of Ara h 6‐specific IgA highlighting a potential novel IgA‐independent Treg‐related immune response at the sublingual mucosal site.
Association of Yield and Yield Components Among Selected Bread Wheat Genotypes Under Silicon Fertilisation and Drought Conditions
Authors: Christian Marylyn M. , Shimelis Hussein , Laing Mark D. , Tsilo Toi J.
Published: January 2025

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. (2n = 6x = 42; AABBDD)) is a commodity crop serving diverse value chains worldwide. However, drought stress and poor soil health are major causes of a yield gap in wheat production. Silicon (Si) fertiliser application with drought‐adapted wheat cultivars may enhance wheat productivity. This study aimed to examine the impact of Si fertilisation on agronomic performance and trait associations in wheat under drought stress to identify selection criteria for improving drought tolerance and Si response. Twenty wheat genotypes were evaluated, involving two water regimes and two Si fertiliser formulations in three environments, using a factorial experiment laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications. Both liquid and granular Si formulations enhanced the agronomic performance of wheat compared to the untreated control, under both drought‐stressed (DS) and nonstressed (NS) conditions. Variable degrees of correlations were recorded under different water regimes and fertiliser formulations. Si fertilisation improved favourable trait correlations compared to the untreated control under DS and NS conditions. Grain yield had positive associations with hundred seed weight (HSW), under NS conditions when using liquid Si (r = 0.74, p < 0.001) and granular Si (r = 0.69, p < 0.001). Strong trait correlations were detected between productive tiller number (TN) and productive spike number (PS) for granular Si (r = 0.99, p < 0.001), liquid Si (r = 1.00, p < 0.001) and the untreated control (r = 0.98, p < 0.001), under DS conditions. With both granular and liquid Si applications under DS conditions, there were high trait correlations between spike length (SL) and TN (r = 0.72, p < 0.001; r = 0.63, p < 0.001, respectively), and PS (r = 0.73, p < 0.001; r = 0.62, p < 0.001, respectively). Under DS, HSW (0.84) and PS (0.64) had higher direct effects on grain yield with granular Si application, while TN and PS (0.94) had higher indirect effects on grain yield under liquid Si application. Under NS, aboveground biomass (0.68) had the highest direct effects on grain yield with granular Si compared to the liquid Si formulation and the untreated control. The genotypes MC10, MC6, MC1, MC3 and MC11, with granular Si application, were high yielders in descending order and are recommended for breeding and variety release in South Africa. The correlation and path coefficient analyses distinguished TN, PS and HSW as principal traits contributing to enhanced grain yield under drought stress, making them vital parameters for selecting Si use‐efficient breeding lines.
Electric field controlled resistive switching behavior and optical modulation in Al/BaTiO3/LaNiO3 devices
Authors: Wu Lei , Gao Wenbo , Li Juanfei , Wang Rui , Wang Xiaoqiang , Li Mingya , Li Jinsheng
Published: January 2025

BaTiO3 (BTO) thin films were deposited on LaNiO3 (LNO)/SiO2/Si substrates by magnetron sputtering, and the LNO thin film was deposited as a bottom electrode and a buffer layer. The bipolar resistive switching (RS) behaviors have been observed in the Al/BTO/LNO devices, and the effect of illumination conditions on the RS behavior was investigated. The set voltage was effectively reduced by the photogenerated carrier, and a greatly improved OFF/ON resistance ratio of ∼120 was achieved under high light conditions. The Al/BTO/LNO devices showed good endurance and retention performance. The conduction mechanisms of the Al/BTO/LNO devices have been discussed based on the migration of defects and photogenerated carriers. These results facilitated a deeper study of BTO‐based multifunctional storage devices and demonstrated the tunable photoresponse characteristic.
Parental Experiences of Quality of Life When Caring for Their Children With Intellectual Disability: A Meta‐Aggregation Systematic Review
Authors: Barratt Macey , Lewis Peter , Duckworth Natalie , Jojo Natasha , Malecka Viktorija , Tomsone Signe , Rituma Dita , Wilson Nathan J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Parents of children with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities play a crucial role in providing direct care but often demonstrate heightened parental stress and reduced quality of life. This review explores perceived quality of life from the experiences of parents when caring for young and adult children.

Method

A qualitative systematic review following Joanna Briggs Institute meta‐aggregation approach has been completed and reported according to PRISMA guidelines.

Findings

Seventeen qualitative studies were included. Three synthesised findings were identified: ‘Challenges and rewards of being a parent carer’, ‘The real cost of caregiver burden’ and ‘Surrendering self for duty – the mothers role’.

Conclusion

Parents of children with moderate to profound intellectual disabilities reported diminished quality of life for themselves and their families, experiencing increased physical and mental health issues associated with caregiving burdens. Future research is needed that determine what effective support systems and interventions are needed to alleviate parental caregiver burden.
Assessing Theoretical Considerations of Effects Within a Behavioural Obesity Treatment in Women: Implications for Medical Professional Referral
Authors: Annesi James J.
Published: January 2025

Rationale

Obesity is an increasing medical issue not responding well to behavioural treatments beyond their initial weeks/months.

Aims and Objectives

Before suggesting surgical or pharmacological interventions, medical professionals might consider referrals to cost‐effective, community‐based behavioural treatments if stronger theoretical/empirical bases were demonstrated. Thus, evaluation of such is warranted.

Method

Women with obesity were randomly assigned to 6‐month treatments emphasizing either behavioural theory‐based methods focused on exercise‐associated psychological changes generalizing to dietary changes (n = 101), or typical instruction in weight‐control methods (n = 53). Theory‐driven psychosocial, behavioural and weight changes were assessed over 12 months.

Results

Improvements in all measured variables were significantly greater in the behavioural theory group. In the evaluation of hypothesized theory‐based relationships–which have overarching bases in social cognitive theory–(1) self‐efficacy theory was supported by self‐regulation‐associated increases in self‐efficacy predicting later positive changes in exercise and the diet; (2) coaction theory was reinforced by the identified transfer of changes in self‐regulation of exercise to self‐regulation of eating; (3) the mood‐behaviour model was sustained by improved mood predicting exercise and dietary improvements through (mediated by) self‐regulation changes; (4) self‐regulation theory was bolstered through early improvements in self‐regulation supporting its longer‐term increase, especially under conditions of self‐regulatory skills practice and (5) operant conditioning theory was supported through results indicating a reinforcing effect from exercise‐associated mood improvement to reduced emotional eating. Across the theories, relationships among tested variables were generally stronger in the behavioural theory group. Improvements in exercise and dietary behaviours were significant independent predictors of reduced weight.

Conclusion

Findings support the addressed behavioural theories within a community‐based obesity treatment model that emphasized exercise for its psychosocial impacts on dietary behaviours and sustained weight loss. Based on the present empirical supports, medical professionals should consider referral to such approaches before (or in combination with) surgical or pharmacological methods.
Interdisciplinary, Computer‐Guided Periodontal and Dental Management of a Novel Hypo‐ and Microdontia Case Restored With Ultrathin Veneers Fabricated via INKGLUE Technique
Authors: Burgio Chiara , Oquendo Anabella , Biebel Bayliegh , Shi Ye , Atria Pablo J. , Huanca Ivan Ronald , Ulloa Yeison , Sampaio Camila S.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This report illustrates the digital interdisciplinary management of a case presenting with diastemata, a retained primary tooth, microdontia, and hypodontia. Esthetic crown lengthening and ultrathin veneers optimized the natural dentition and achieved a stable, minimally‐invasive, and esthetically‐pleasing outcome.

Clinical Considerations

Reduction guides were digitally‐designed and 3D‐printed for guided crown lengthening and dental veneer preparation. Ultrathin lithium disilicate veneers were fabricated using the INK GLUE technique.

Conclusions

When interdisciplinary cases are meticulously planned and executed with digital and analog tools, a satisfactory, esthetic, minimally‐invasive result can be achieved.
Usefulness of Magnifying Endoscopy With Narrow‐Band Imaging for Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis–Associated Neoplasia
Authors: Nishio Masafumi , Hirasawa Kingo , Saigusa Yusuke , Shiqi Zhao , Kenemura Tokomi , Hama Takanori , Atsusaka Reo , Azuma Daisuke , Ozeki Yuichiro , Sawada Atsushi , Ikeda Ryosuke , Fukuchi Takehide , Kobayashi Ryosuke , Sato Chiko , Ogashiwa Tsuyoshi , Chiba Sawako , Inayama Yoshiaki , Kunisaki Reiko , Maeda Shin
Published: January 2025

Background and Aim

Qualitative diagnosis of ulcerative colitis–associated neoplasia (UCAN) is crucial for surveillance colonoscopy in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Although the utility of magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging (ME‐NBI) in sporadic neoplasia diagnosis has been reported, its efficacy in UCAN remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of ME‐NBI for qualitative diagnosis of UCAN.

Methods

We generated 60 ME‐NBI images (30 UCANs and 30 nonneoplasia lesions, including 10 polypoid and 20 nonpolypoid lesions) from patients with UC who underwent colonoscopy at our hospital between 2015 and 2023. Eleven endoscopists (seven experts and four trainees) independently assessed these images. Lesions were categorized into high‐ (≥ 80%), moderate‐ (50%–79%), and low‐ (< 50%) accuracy groups on the basis of the correct diagnostic rate.

Results

Overall sensitivity, specificity, and correct diagnostic rates were 66.5%, 79.0%, and 71.8%, respectively. Experts tended to exhibit higher specificity than trainees (83% vs. 70%). Polypoid lesions showed higher sensitivity (92% vs. 54%) and lower specificity (61% vs. 88%) than nonpolypoid lesions. Overall, the kappa value was 0.411. In UCAN, 37%, 37%, and 24% were classified into the high‐, moderate‐, and low‐accuracy groups, respectively. All endoscopists assessed one case of UCAN in the low‐accuracy group as a nonneoplastic vessel with a surface pattern. Only two nonneoplasias were identified as having nonneoplastic vessel and surface patterns by all endoscopists.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the usefulness of ME‐NBI for qualitative diagnosis, along with its limitations. A unique endoscopic diagnostic algorithm for UCAN, incorporating ME‐NBI and other modalities, is necessary.
Coping Styles Mediated the Association Between Perceived Organizational Support and Resilience in Emergency Nurses Exposed to Workplace Violence: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Liao Liwen , Wu Qing , Su Ya , Li Rui , Wang Lin
Published: January 2025

Resilience was a core factor for mitigating the risks of adverse impacts of workplace violence (WPV) and may be determined by perceived organizational support (POS) and coping styles. The aim of this study was to examine the potential mediation effects of coping styles between POS and resilience in emergency nurses exposed to WPV. Participants were 670 emergency nurses (84.0% female; mean age 30.94 [SD 6.13]) reporting WPV exposure in the past 3 months. Potential mediation effects of coping styles were explored using structural equation modeling. Results showed that POS, negative coping style, and positive coping style were associated with resilience in emergency nurses exposed to WPV. Coping styles mediated the association of POS with resilience. Two indirect pathways explained 21.8% and 22.4% of the variance in nurse resilience, respectively. The findings underscore the importance of POS and coping skills in promoting resilience of emergency nurses exposed to WPV. Nurse management programs are warranted to improve the resilience of emergency nurses at the organizational and individual levels.
Centromere diversity and its evolutionary impacts on plant karyotypes and plant reproduction
Authors: Steckenborn Stefan , Marques André
Published: January 2025

Karyotype changes are a formidable evolutionary force by directly impacting cross‐incompatibility, gene dosage, genetic linkage, chromosome segregation, and meiotic recombination landscape. These changes often arise spontaneously and are commonly detected within plant lineages, even between closely related accessions. One element that can influence drastic karyotype changes after only one (or few) plant generations is the alteration of the centromere position, number, distribution, or even its strength. Here, we briefly explore how these different centromere configurations can directly result in karyotype rearrangements, impacting plant reproduction and meiotic recombination.
Biomechanical Analysis and Solution Suggestions of Screw Replacement Scenarios in Femoral Neck Fracture Surgeries: Finite Element Method
Authors: Güvercin Yılmaz , Yaylacı Murat , Dizdar Ayberk , Özdemir Mehmet Emin , Ay Sevil , Yaylacı Ecren Uzun , Karahasanoğlu Umitcan , Uygun Hüseyin , Peker Gökhan
Published: January 2025

Objective

Despite several surgical options, there has yet to be a consensus on the best treatment for femoral neck fracture (FNF) due to higher complication rates compared to other bone fractures. This study aims to examine the possible consequences and solution suggestions of changing screws during surgery for various reasons in FNF surgical treatment from a biomechanical perspective.

Method

FNF and treatment materials were analyzed biomechanically using a package program based on the finite element method (FEM). This study created a solid model with images of femur bone tomography. Dynamic hip screws (DHS), cannulated screws (CCS), and medial buttress plates (MBP) were obtained by making three‐dimensional designs. The required elements for the models were assigned, and the material properties of the elements were defined. The solutions were obtained as crack distance and deformation results after defining the boundary conditions and applying the necessary loading.

Results

The strain and crack distance values created by six models on the fracture line under different parameters were obtained, and the numerical results were evaluated. The DHS and CCS models produced the highest crack distance and deformation values when all screws were loose. The lowest values were obtained in the intact‐85 model when all CCS were tight. When the results are evaluated, it is seen that the MBP has a decreasing effect on the results. Mechanical evaluation of six different options used in femoral neck fractures was performed. 85 mm CCS applied to our standard model gave the best results, while the use of 80 mm CCS in the same model showed promising results compared to other models. It is understood that CCS have the best stability even in loosening models with the medial support plate. Different models are from intact‐85 mm DHS+1CS+MBP to DHS+1CS, which was worked with LSR+USR‐2, according to decreasing stability.

Conclusion

This study offers various biomechanical solutions to possible intraoperative problems in FNF treatment. The following results were obtained from the study data. When the CCS needs to be lengthened or replaced, it is appropriate to use the CCS with the MBP. A single anti‐rotation screw is sufficient for lag screw extensions of the DHS plate, and the MBP may be a savior procedure in surgery.
The regulatory module MdCPCL‐MdILR3L mediates the synthesis of ascorbic acid and anthocyanin in apple
Authors: Zou Qi , Bao Tiantian , Yu Lei , Xu Haifeng , Liu Wenjun , Li Zhiqiang , Zhu Yansong , Chen Ran , Hou Xukai , Zhang Zongying , Wang Nan , Chen Xuesen
Published: January 2025

Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) is one of the most economically valuable fruit crops globally and a key dietary source for various nutrients. However, the levels of ascorbic acid (AsA) and anthocyanin, essential micronutrients for human health, are extremely low in the pulp of commonly cultivated apple varieties. In the present study, the second‐generation hybrid strain of Xinjiang red‐fleshed apple (‘Zihong No. 1’ × ‘Gala’) was used as the test material. The results revealed that AsA content was significantly higher in red‐fleshed apple pulp than in non‐red‐fleshed varieties, and the expression of MdGLDH, a key gene in the D‐mannose/L‐galactose pathway, correlated strongly with AsA levels. Using the promoter of MdGLDH as bait, an R3‐type MYB transcription factor (TF), MdCPC‐like, was identified through yeast one‐hybrid screening. Further analysis revealed that the overexpression of MdCPCL increased the AsA and anthocyanin levels in both callus and fruits, whereas MdCPCL knockdown led to a reduction in their levels. Moreover, the interaction between MdCPCL and the bHLH TF MdILR3‐like was confirmed, forming the MdCPCL‐MdILR3L complex. This complex significantly enhanced the transcription of downstream target genes MdGLDH and MdANS, promoting the synthesis of AsA and anthocyanins. This study contributes to further enrich the anabolic pathways of AsA and anthocyanin in apples and provides a theoretical foundation for the quality breeding of red‐fleshed apple varieties.
No national research assessment here. A Canadian counterfactual?
Authors: Barnes Trevor J.
Published: January 2025

Canada has never established a national research assessment exercise for its post‐secondary institutions. This is a consequence of Canada's nineteenth century legal foundation as an independent nation‐state that made higher education a provincial rather than a federal responsibility. In this sense, the experience of Canada over the past four decades makes a counterfactual to the many countries that implemented national research assessments during the same period. Nonetheless, there have been sharp criticisms of the distribution of federal government research monies among researchers in Canadian universities and colleges. These criticisms are discussed along with the effects on Canadian higher education of neoliberalism. Neoliberalism is often identified as a cause of national research assessments. However, Canada is the seeming paradox of having its post‐secondary institutions subject to neoliberalism but not subject to national research assessments.
Patient and wound factors associated with WOUND‐Q scales measuring health‐related quality of life: An international cross‐sectional study
Authors: Simonsen Nina Vestergaard , Möller Sören , Rae Charlene , Klassen Anne F. , Poulsen Lotte , Pusic Andrea Louise , Sørensen Jens Ahm
Published: January 2025

The WOUND‐Q is a patient‐reported outcome measure for individuals with any type of chronic wound. This study aimed to identify patient and wound factors associated with the four WOUND‐Q health‐related quality of life (HRQL) scales: Life impact, Psychological, Sleep, and Social. Adults with a chronic wound were recruited internationally through clinical settings between August 2018 and May 2020, and through an online platform (i.e. Prolific) in September 2022. Multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to identify factors significantly associated with the WOUND‐Q scales. The assessments obtained were 1273, 1275, 706, and 1256 for the Life Impact, Psychological, Sleep, and Social scales, respectively. The mean age of participants was 55 (SD = 18) years; most (66%) had a single wound, and most (56%) wounds had lasted more than 6 months. The most common causes were trauma, surgery, and diabetic foot ulcer. Wound characteristics associated with worse scores on at least one of the scales were drainage, vacuum treatment, aetiologies (i.e. diabetic foot ulcer, trauma, other, multiple), duration (i.e. 10–11 months), having four or more wounds, smell, and sleep interference, while wound location different from the face or neck was associated with better scores (p < 0.05). Patient factors associated with worse scores included having diabetes or a comorbidity, whereas increasing age or male gender were associated with better scores (p < 0.05). Sleep disturbances had the largest negative influence on HRQL scores. This study identified factors affecting HRQL in individuals with chronic wounds. Understanding these associations can inform better management and treatment strategies to improve HRQL for these patients.
Homology of spectral minimal partitions
Authors: Berkolaiko Gregory , Canzani Yaiza , Cox Graham , Marzuola Jeremy L.
Published: January 2025

A spectral minimal partition of a manifold is its decomposition into disjoint open sets that minimizes a spectral energy functional. It is known that bipartite spectral minimal partitions coincide with nodal partitions of Courant‐sharp Laplacian eigenfunctions. However, almost all minimal partitions are non‐bipartite. To study those, we define a modified Laplacian operator and prove that the nodal partitions of its Courant‐sharp eigenfunctions are minimal within a certain topological class of partitions. This yields new results in the non‐bipartite case and recovers the above known result in the bipartite case. Our approach is based on tools from algebraic topology, which we illustrate by a number of examples where the topological types of partitions are characterized by relative homology.
Early introduction of oral feeding and its impact on full oral feeding and discharge in preterm infants: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Fujitsuka Maki , Takao Kenji , Ueki Shingo , Morokuma Seiichi
Published: January 2025

Objective:

This review aims to examine the impact of early introduction of oral feeding, compared with standard care, on the duration of achieving full oral feeding, postmenstrual ages at full oral feeding and discharge, and weight gain in preterm infants.

Introduction:

Because of their immature oral function, preterm infants are prone to feeding difficulties during hospitalization and after hospital discharge. Early introduction of oral feeding helps infants to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and respiration, thereby improving their oral feeding skills. However, early introduction of oral feeding may also contribute to respiratory adverse events; therefore, safety verification is necessary.

Inclusion criteria:

Early introduction of oral feeding is defined as beginning oral feeding at < 33 weeks’ postmenstrual age and transitioning from tube feeding to oral feeding. The primary outcomes are the duration from the initial oral feeding to full oral feeding; postmenstrual age at full oral feeding and discharge; and weight gain. The secondary outcomes are oxygen desaturation and bradycardia.

Methods:

Eight databases, including MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, will be used with no restrictions on language or publication year. Study selection, critical appraisal, data extraction, and data synthesis will be conducted by 2 independent reviewers according to the JBI methodology for systematic reviews. Quantitative data will be extracted and pooled in a statistical meta-analysis, if possible. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach will be used to assess the certainty of evidence.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42024530910
A Review of Intervention Research on Teachers’ Content Knowledge and Students’ Learning and Performance in K–12 School Physical Education
Authors: Xiong Yan , Li Weidong , Xiang Ping
Published: January 2025

Purpose: This study conducted a review of teachers’ content knowledge and students’ learning and performance by highlighting major findings, pointing out the strengths and weaknesses, and identifying future research directions. Methods: Guided by the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 11 intervention studies were coded using a coding template. For each of the categories, frequencies and percentages were calculated. Results and descriptive texts were synthesized and summarized. Results and Discussions: Our data revealed that most intervention studies showed that the interventions on teachers’ content knowledge, through a training workshop, had significantly moderate to large effects on students’ learning outcomes. These findings were consistently observed for most of student learning outcomes regardless of types of teachers, the rigor level of research designs, the appropriateness of data analyses, and the content areas considered. However, most studies lacked rigor in research design and used inappropriate statistical analysis approaches to analyze the data. Conclusion: More rigorous intervention research on teachers’ content knowledge is needed to provide evidence to support the national standards, teaching practices, and curricular reform in physical education.
Establishing a new human pneumococcal standard reference serum, MPRSS-01
Authors: Antonello Joseph M. , Murphy Rocio D. , Abeygunawardana Chitrananda , Malinverni Juliana C. , Gowrisankar Rajam , Green Tina , Greway Rebecca , Schmauch Jenna , Howlett Adrienne , Bonhomme Cyrille J. , Nolan Katrina M.
Published: January 2025

Measuring the immunogenicity of pneumococcal vaccines involves the use of immunoassays to measure serotype-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody levels post-vaccination with the current
Streptococcus pneumoniae
human reference serum standard (007sp) for anti-pneumococcal capsule antibodies. Development of new pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs) with additional serotypes not in 007sp (e.g., V116, a 21-valent PCV) requires a new reference serum. Antibody concentrations to 33 pneumococcal serotypes were assigned in a new Merck Pneumococcal Reference Serum Standard (MPRSS-01; Merck Pneumococcal Reference Serum Standard) using the pneumococcal electrochemiluminescence assay. MPRSS-01 was generated by pooling high-titer serum samples from adults immunized with either 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) or V116. For the 24 serotypes with established IgG concentrations, the corresponding antibody concentrations in MPRSS-01 were assigned via direct calibration to 007sp, while a cross-standardization approach was used for the nine novel serotypes. Serotype 7F was initially chosen as the reference calibrator for cross-standardization due to parallelism across dilution–response curves demonstrated across all 33 serotypes, and an evaluation of the single-calibrator approach was conducted for the 24 serotypes. Potential systematic bias from using a unique serotype for calibration was identified and addressed by further adjusting the estimated IgG concentrations of the nine novel serotypes. Using the final MPRSS-01 antibody concentration assignments, and the calibration factor relating MPRSS-01 to 007sp, antibody concentration assignments for 007sp were provided for the nine novel serotypes. This proposal was accepted by the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), enabling V116 to bridge old and new human pneumococcal reference sera.

IMPORTANCE

Immunogenicity of pneumococcal vaccines is measured using post-vaccination serotype-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in serum using enzyme-linked immunoassays with the 007sp reference serum containing serotype-specific IgG for 24 pneumococcal serotypes. With the development of next-generation PCVs, a new
S. pneumoniae
reference serum standard was needed to include serotypes beyond the existing 24 in 007sp. In this study, antibody concentrations to 33 pneumococcal serotypes were assigned in a new Merck Pneumococcal Reference Serum Standard (MPRSS-01) using the pneumococcal electrochemiluminescence assay, enabling V116 to maintain the link to the historical human pneumococcal standard reference serum while utilizing the new human pneumococcal reference serum.
Can GastroPanel be used as a triage tool to select patients with advanced atrophic gastritis for gastroscopy? A prospective clinical validation study
Authors: Papadia Cinzia , Marelli Laura , Wood Eleanor , Novelli Marco , Feakins Roger , Syrjänen Kari Juhani , Shidrawi Ray
Published: January 2025

Objective

Gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) is the 17th most common cancer in the UK with a 5-year survival rate of 22%. GastroPanel (Biohit Oyj; Helsinki, Finland) is an ELISA kit that measures pepsinogen I (PGI); pepsinogen II (PGII); gastrin-17 (G-17); and Helicobacter pylori IgG antibodies (Hp IgG). PGI and the PGI/PGII ratio correlate inversely with the severity of chronic atrophic gastritis (AG). The aim of this study was to assess GastroPanel performance in the identification of moderate to severe AG in dyspepsia.

Methods

In this UK, single-centre, prospective diagnostic accuracy study, 324 patients [56.8% (n=184) female; median age 57 years (range 39–92 years)] were recruited for gastroscopy with biopsy and histology according to the updated Sydney System (USS). Blood (plasma) samples were collected for GastroPanel analysis. Paired samples were obtained from 268 patients [56.3% (n=151) female; median age=57 (range 39–92 years)]. GastroPanel results were interpreted using the GastroSoft app (Biohit).

Results

Overall agreement between GastroPanel and the USS classification was 90% (95% CI=86.7 to 93.8%), with a weighted kappa (κw) of 0.828 (95% CI=0.781 to 0.865). In receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis, using moderate/severe atrophic gastritis of the corpus (AGC2+) as the endpoint, AUC=0.840 (95% CI 0.630 to 1.000) and 0.960 (95% CI 0.907 to 1.000) for PGI and the PGI/PGII ratio, respectively.

Conclusion

GastroPanel is a reliable dyspepsia triage test distinguishing patients who can be safely treated conservatively from those with moderate to severe corpus atrophic gastritis at high risk of developing GAC.
Evaluating the pathological and clinical implications of errors made by an artificial intelligence colon biopsy screening tool
Authors: Evans Harriet , Sivakumar Naveen , Bhanderi Shivam , Graham Simon , Snead David , Patel Abhilasha , Robinson Andrew
Published: January 2025

Objective

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools for histological diagnosis offer great potential to healthcare, yet failure to understand their clinical context is delaying adoption. IGUANA (Interpretable Gland-Graphs using a Neural Aggregator) is an AI algorithm that can effectively classify colonic biopsies into normal versus abnormal categories, designed to automatically report normal cases. We performed a retrospective pathological and clinical review of the errors made by IGUANA.

Methods

False negative (FN) errors were the primary focus due to the greatest propensity for harm. Pathological evaluation involved assessment of whole slide image (WSI) quality, precise diagnoses for each missed entity and identification of factors impeding diagnosis. Clinical evaluation scored the impact of each error on the patient and detailed the type of impact in terms of missed diagnosis, investigations or treatment.

Results

Across 5054 WSIs from 2080 UK National Health Service patients there were 220 FN errors across 164 cases (4.4% of WSI, 7.9% of cases). Diagnostic errors varied from cases of adenocarcinoma to mild inflammation. 88.4% of FN errors would have no impact on patient care, with only one error causing major patient harm. Factors that protected against harm included biopsies being low-risk polyps or diagnostic features were detected in other biopsies.

Conclusion

Most FN errors would not result in patient harm, suggesting that even with a 7.9% case-level error rate, this AI tool might be more suitable for adoption than statistics portray. Consideration of the clinical context of AI tool errors is essential to facilitate safe implementation.
Motivational influence of virtual reality in physical therapy for children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Mohd Iqbal Huda Aliah , Zanudin Asfarina , Mohd Nordin Nor Azlin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Emulating the vast inclusion of advanced technology in everyday practice, the medical world is no exception to its implementation, in particular, virtual reality (VR). Initially, its introduction as a therapy was accompanied by high aspirations and expectations for its growth and potential. Motivation is said to be the most associated benefit; although it is imperative to note that there exists a paucity of research that specifically quantifies its tangible impact on cerebral palsy (CP). There has yet to be a systematic review of the instruments used to precisely measure motivation and examine its association with the benefits of VR for children with cerebral palsy.

Methods and analysis

This review will evaluate comparative studies that used VR therapy as part of interventions for children with CP. Qualitative studies, single-case studies, systematic reviews, literature reviews and guideline audits will be excluded. This review will be conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA-P) guidelines. The methodological protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The following electronic databases will be used to access related studies published between January 2012 and December 2023: MEDLINE (via EBSCOhost), Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed and Cochrane. The Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies checklist will be employed to develop database search strategies.

Ethics and dissemination

This review does not require ethical approval as it uses secondary data. The findings will be published in a scientific journal. We intend to contribute to the expansion of knowledge concerning the motivational implications of VR on children with CP.

PROSPERO registration number

International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (identification number CRD42023401079).
EXtending Omalizumab Treatment Intervals in patients with Chronic spontaneous urticaria (EXOTIC): protocol of a multicentre, randomised, open-label, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Zhang Ditte Georgina , Sørensen Jennifer Astrup , Ghazanfar Misbah Noshela , Ali Zarqa , Vestergaard Christian , Thyssen Jacob , Egeberg Alexander , Thomsen Simon Francis
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Omalizumab, an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody, is effective in treating antihistamine-refractory chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). However, tapering strategies for omalizumab are currently not well-studied, and patients may be treated longer than needed. Here, we present the rationale and design of the EXtending Omalizumab Treatment Intervals in patients with Chronic spontaneous urticaria trial, a multicentre, randomised, open-label, non-inferiority clinical trial. The objective of this trial is to investigate if patients with well-controlled CSU, achieved by standard treatment of 300 mg omalizumab administered subcutaneously every 4 weeks (Q4W) for 12 weeks, can maintain disease control with every 6 weeks (Q6W) dosing interval.

Methods and analysis

Participants who achieve an Urticaria Control Test (UCT) score ≥12 after 12 weeks on omalizumab will be randomised to 300 mg omalizumab treatment Q4W or Q6W. Treatment arms will be followed for a total of 36 weeks. The primary endpoint is the absolute difference in average UCT score between treatment arms at week 36. Blood samples, Weekly Urticaria Activity Score, Chronic Urticaria Quality of Life Questionnaire, Dermatology Life Quality Index and records of side effects and flares will be obtained throughout the study at weeks 0, 12, 24 and 36.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Scientific Ethical Committee of the Capital Region in Denmark, the local Data Protection Agency and the Danish Medicines Agency. All study participants must provide written informed consent. The study will be conducted according to the Helsinki Declaration and Good Clinical Practice. Findings will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

EU CT no. 2023-506187-14-00, ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT05916937.