bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A framework for understanding the human experience of nature through cognitive mapping
Authors: Dan‐Rakedzon Nitzan , Fleming Whitney , Lissovsky Nurit , Clayton Susan , Shwartz Assaf
Published: April 2024

Human behavior is a key driver of the biodiversity crisis, and addressing it requires changing individual choices and actions. Yet, the same processes that imperil biodiversity (e.g., urbanization) also alienate people from the experience of nature, eroding care for the natural world. Although averting this extinction of experience is increasingly recognized as a major contemporary conservation challenge, understanding of what constitutes nature experience remains elusive and few empirical studies have explored it directly. Most researchers have used nature interactions as a stand‐in for experience, even though experience extends beyond interactions. We aimed to determine what constitutes the experience of nature and to propose a holistic, empirically derived framework that incorporates the multiple dimensions and components of the experience of nature. Using a mixed‐method approach across 3 countries (the United States, Switzerland, and Israel), we conducted a multistage, conceptual content, cognitive mapping (3CM) exercise with 106 participants. This methodology included developing a prompt to capture participants’ perceptions of nature experiences and subsequently refining and organizing their input into distinct components and underlying dimensions through an iterative engagement process. Beyond multisensory interactions with nature, experience of nature consisted of 2 dimensions: the circumstances in which interactions occur and the internal responses that encompass various cognitive, affective, and restorative benefits associated with nature interactions. These 3 dimensions had 33 components that occurred consistently across participants in the 3 countries. Frequently mentioned components included seeing animals, landscapes, or scenery; lack of human influence; weather conditions; relaxing, recharging; feeling good; and awe for nature. Fear and nature experienced at home were the least mentioned components. Together, our results showed that nature experience is a combination of nature interactions, circumstances, and internal responses. The emphasized components underscore the significance of offering access to extensive, less human‐influenced natural spaces. This in turn can foster a profound nature experience, cultivating feelings of connectedness and care for nature.
A morphological mimic: An NTRK3‐rearranged spindle cell neoplasm presenting as a groin mass
Authors: Shelvey Bethany , Dojcinov Stefan , Roman Manuela , Whitaker Iain S. , Short Emma
Published: April 2024

Neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK)‐rearranged spindle cell neoplasms are a recently described group of soft tissue tumors. They commonly present as a painless mass on the extremities of children and young adults. They are characterized microscopically by a heterogeneous spectrum of infiltrative spindle cell proliferations, which can morphologically mimic several other spindle cell neoplasms. Their identification is vital, as they may be amenable to treatment with tyrosine kinase‐targeted therapy. This case report describes a rare NTRK3‐rearranged spindle cell neoplasm in the groin of a 29‐year‐old female and provides further clinical and morphological features of this entity.
Endoscopic pressure study integrated system using an ultrathin gastroscope for the functional assessment of the lower esophageal sphincter
Authors: Azuma Daisuke , Shimamura Yuto , Inoue Haruhiro , Tanaka Hitoshi , Ushikubo Kei , Yamamoto Kazuki , Kimoto Yoshiaki , Okada Hiroki , Nishikawa Yohei , Tanaka Ippei , Onimaru Manabu
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The endoscopic pressure study integrated system (EPSIS) represents an innovative approach for evaluating lower esophageal sphincter function by monitoring intragastric pressure using diagnostic gastroscopes. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and validity of employing ultrathin gastroscopes for EPSIS.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a database of consecutive patients who underwent EPSIS using both ultrathin and regular gastroscopes between September 2021 and October 2023. The study compared EPSIS parameters between the two gastroscope types to evaluate the correlation of key metrics.

Results

Thirty patients underwent EPSIS with both ultrathin and regular gastroscopes. Significant positive correlations were observed in the pressure waveform: maximum intragastric pressure (mmHg) (ρ = 0.82, P < 0.001) and intragastric pressure gradient (mmHg/s) (ρ = 0.80, P < 0.001) when comparing the two gastroscopes. Maximum intragastric pressure (15.5 [5.3–20.3] vs. 18.5 [3.4–21.6], P < 0.001) and pressure gradient (0.16 [0.013–0.41] vs. 0.24 [0.0039–1.13], P < 0.001), (median [range]) were significantly lower with ultrathin gastroscopes.

Conclusions

This study establishes that EPSIS parameters obtained with an ultrathin gastroscope exhibit a significant correlation with those obtained using a regular gastroscope, with each EPSIS parameter consistently lower. These findings support the viability of EPSIS for ultrathin gastroscopy and highlight its potential as a diagnostic tool for assessing lower esophageal sphincter function.
The associations between daily reports of loneliness and psychotic experiences in the early risk stages for psychosis
Authors: Raposo de Almeida Esdras , van der Tuin Sara , Muller Merel K. , van den Berg David , Wang Yuan‐Pang , Veling Wim , Booij Sanne H. , Wigman Johanna T. W.
Published: April 2024

Aim

Bi‐directional associations between loneliness and psychotic experiences (PEs) have been reported, but the mechanisms underlying these associations are unknown. This study aims to explore associations between daily reports of loneliness and PEs, and test differences in this association across young adult individuals at different levels of risk for psychosis.

Methods

We analysed 90‐day diary data on loneliness and PEs from N = 96 participants (mean age 24.7, range 18–35, 77% female) divided into 4 subgroups, each indexing increased levels of risk for psychosis according to the clinical staging model: ‘psychometric’ (n = 25), ‘low’ (n = 27), ‘mild’ (n = 24), and ‘ultra‐high’(n = 20) risk. Multilevel vector autoregressive models examined within‐day (contemporaneous) and between‐day (temporal) associations between loneliness and PEs for the total sample. Next, these associations were compared across subgroups.

Results

Loneliness and PEs were significantly associated contemporaneously (partial correlation B = 0.14) but not temporally. Subgroup membership moderated both contemporaneous and temporal associations. The contemporaneous association between loneliness and PEs was stronger in the low‐risk subgroup compared to the mild‐risk (B = −0.35, p < .01) and ultra‐high‐risk (B = −0.36, p < .01) subgroups. The temporal association between loneliness on the previous day and PEs on the current day was stronger in mild‐risk subgroup compared to the ultra‐high‐risk subgroup (B = −0.03, p = .03). After adjusting for multiple testing, only the contemporaneous—but not the temporal—associations remained statistically significant.

Conclusions

Loneliness is associated with PEs in individuals at risk for psychosis, particularly in those with low to mild symptoms. Our findings tentatively suggest that especially individuals with low expressions of PEs may be more sensitive to social context, but future studies are needed to replicate and further unravel the potentially stage‐specific interplay between social context and PEs.
Psycho‐emotional intervention with parents of very preterm babies during the first year: A single‐arm pilot study
Authors: Padilla‐Muñoz Eva M. , Barbancho‐Morant M. Merced , Lanzarote‐Fernández M. Dolores , Sanduvete‐Chaves Susana , Chacón‐Moscoso Salvador
Published: April 2024

Studies of intervention programs that aim to improve the emotional state of parents of children admitted to the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are scarce in Spain. The aims of this single‐arm pilot study are to get to know the emotional profile of parents of high‐risk preterm newborns, and to explore parents' patterns of emotional well‐being before and after a psychological program called the Parental Empowerment Program, to increase parental readiness levels. The sample was made up of 100 parents (50 couples) who participated in the program. Measurements were taken of post‐traumatic stress, depression, and resilience at 1 month and 12 months. Repeated measurements and dyadic data analyses were performed. One month after the birth of the baby and prior to the start of the program, mothers show more symptoms of stress and depression than fathers. After the intervention, both parents experienced improvements in their mood levels. The evidence obtained seems to show that high resilience levels and low post‐traumatic stress symptoms are associated with reduced depression levels after implementing the program. However, the heterogeneity of the responses obtained, the observed associations between stress, resilience, and maternal depression, along with the reciprocal influence between maternal and paternal depression 1 year after the intervention, highlight the need for a more in‐depth exploration of the interplay between risk and protective factors in this population. Despite the identified potential threats to validity, further work in this direction is recommended, including the implementation of clinical trials to demonstrate intervention efficacy. The adaptation of the parents' mutual emotional adjustment at each stage would allow them to participate more actively in the baby's care.
From mock interviews to real job interviews: Assessing the efficacy of business Chinese instruction
Authors: Shi Zhongqi , Li Shuai
Published: April 2024

The study investigates whether and how mock interviews, an instructional component of business Chinese courses, prepare students for real interviews. The study included 11 American undergraduate students who participated in a 10‐week summer study abroad program in China. Participants underwent two rounds of mock interviews with their instructors and received individualized written feedback after each interview. They were then interviewed by hiring managers from the companies of their choice. The results of the study showed that the feedback provided by instructors addressed various performance issues, with a focus on linguistic accuracy rather than interview content. Comparison of the mock interviews with real job interviews showed significant differences in interview content, including workplace‐related interactions, language functions, and free chatting. The findings have implications for teaching and research in language for specific purposes.
Global introductions and environmental impacts of freshwater megafish
Authors: Chen Xing , Evans Thomas G. , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Jähnig Sonja C. , He Fengzhi
Published: April 2024

Freshwater megafish species, such as sturgeons, salmonids, carps, and catfishes, have a maximum reported weight ≥30 kg. Due to their charisma and economic value, they have been widely introduced outside of their native ranges. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the introduction of freshwater megafish and an assessment of their environmental impacts. Of the 134 extant freshwater megafish species, 46% have been introduced to new environments, and of these, 69% have established self‐sustaining alien populations. These introductions affect 59% of the world's main basins, with the USA and western Europe being particular hotspots of megafish introductions. The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is the most widely introduced species. Using the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT and EICAT+) frameworks, we assessed the severity and type of negative and positive impacts posed by alien megafish on native species. Alien megafish caused negative impacts through nine different mechanisms, with predation being the most frequently reported mechanism, followed by herbivory and competition. Moreover, 58% of the alien megafish species with sufficient data to evaluate the severity of their impacts caused declining populations of native species, or worse, extirpations of native species populations. The positive environmental impacts of alien megafish were far less frequently documented. They include biotic interactions that benefit native species, and the provision of trophic resources or habitats. Widely introduced or extensively studied species are more likely to have documented severe impacts on native species. There is a clear trade‐off between the economic benefits associated with megafish introductions and the severe adverse impacts they have on native biodiversity. Our study highlights the need for comprehensive risk assessments to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of megafish. More research and long‐term monitoring schemes are required to inform management actions to protect biodiversity, particularly in the Global South.
Blood serum levels of PACAP and migraine onset: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Zhu Guoliang , Wang Miao , Kong Fanyi
Published: April 2024

Objective

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to explore the relationship between blood pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) levels and migraine.

Background

PACAP is involved in the onset of migraine, but the results from clinical studies on PACAP level variations across different periods of migraine are conflicting.

Methods

We systematically searched for observational studies that reported PACAP levels in people with migraine and non‐migraine controls published in English from the PubMed, Web of Science, and Ovid electronic databases, or in Chinese from the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and the WanFang Med database. The Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale was used to assess the quality of the included studies. The quality of evidence for each outcome was assessed according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines.

Results

Of the 514 identified studies, 8 were eligible for inclusion. There was a “very low” level of evidence suggesting that the PACAP level is negatively correlated with migraine disease duration in adults with migraine (summary = −0.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.49 to −0.22) and that the PACAP is higher in people with migraine during the ictal period than in the interictal period (standardized mean difference = 0.41, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.66) for both adults and children with migraine. Adult patients with episodic migraine (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −9.58 pg/mL, 95% CI −13.41 to −5.75 pg/mL) or chronic migraine (WMD = −10.93 pg/mL, 95% CI −15.57 to −6.29 pg/mL) had lower blood PACAP levels than non‐migraine controls during the interictal period, supported by a “low” or “very low” quality of evidence, respectively, according to the GRADE rules.

Conclusion

There is a very low certainty of evidence suggesting that the PACAP level is negatively correlated with migraine disease duration of adults with migraine and it varies greatly among different periods of migraine of both adults and children with migraine.
Multiparametric renal function assessment in cirrhotic patients shows high prevalence of medically actionable changes in multiple modules
Authors: Belmonte Richard , Silva‐Rodriguez Maël , Barbé Françoise , Bensenane Mouni , Haghenejad Vincent , Vrillon Isabelle , Alla Asma , Flahault Adrien , Kormann Raphael , Corbel Alice , Aitdjafer Zakia , Quilliot Didier , Derain‐Dubourg Laurence , Namour Farès , Guéant Jean‐Louis , Bronowicki Jean‐Pierre , Oussalah Abderrahim
Published: April 2024

Aim

Renal dysfunction is a common complication of cirrhosis, occurring either as part of multiorgan involvement in acute illness or secondary to advanced liver disease. To date, no study has comprehensively assessed multiple renal function parameters in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis through a multiparametric analysis of renal biochemistry markers.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, observational study including all consecutive patients hospitalized with cirrhosis who underwent a 43‐multiparametric renal function assessment between January 1, 2021, and June 30, 2023.

Results

All patients showed at least one of the following renal abnormalities: Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes stage G2 or higher, sodium and/or chloride excretion fraction <1%, electrolyte‐free water clearance <0.4 mL/min, or tubular maximum phosphate reabsorption capacity <0.8 mmol/L. The estimated glomerular filtration rate equations significantly overestimated the measured creatinine clearance with median differences of +14 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 6–29) and +9 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 2–15) for European Kidney Function Consortium equations, respectively. Notably, 54% and 39% of patients demonstrated estimated glomerular filtration rates exceeding 30% of the measured creatinine clearance when the Chronic Kidney Disease ‐ Epidemiology Collaboration and European Kidney Function Consortium formulas were employed, respectively. Substantial discrepancies in Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes stage assignments were observed between the estimated glomerular filtration rate‐ and measured creatinine clearance‐based assessments.

Conclusions

This study underscores the value of a multiparametric renal function assessment as a routine tool for evaluating renal function in patients with cirrhosis. A high prevalence of medically actionable renal abnormalities spanning multiple renal function modules, including alterations in glomerular function, salt and solute‐free water excretion, and proximal tubule phosphate reabsorption, has been demonstrated in hospitalized patients with cirrhosis.
Prognostic performance of microscopic size measurements in small invasive carcinomas arising in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas
Authors: Zhang M Lisa , Omori Yuko , Hong Seung‐Mo , Ideno Noboru , Date Kenjiro , Rocha Castellanos Dario M , Shroff Stuti G , Zamboni Giuseppe , Gonzalez Raul S , Furukawa Toru , Fernandez‐del Castillo Carlos , Mino‐Kenudson Mari
Published: April 2024

Aims

Small invasive carcinomas arising in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) of the pancreas can present as multiple, small foci. In such cases, there is no clear optimal measurement method for determining the invasive size for tumour staging and prognostication.

Methods

In all, 117 small invasive IPMNs (size of largest invasive component ≤2 cm) from seven institutions (2000–2016) were reviewed, and all individual foci of invasive carcinoma were measured. T stages (AJCC 8th edition) based on the largest single focus size (LS), average size of all foci (AS), and total sum of all foci (TS) were examined in association with clinicopathologic parameters and patient outcomes.

Results

The cohort comprised IPMNs with invasive tubular‐type (n = 82, 70%) and colloid‐type (n = 35, 30%) carcinomas. The mean LS, AS, and TS were 0.86, 0.71, and 1.32 cm, respectively. Based on the LS, AS, and TS, respectively, 48, 65, and 39 cases were classified as pT1a; 22, 18, and 11 cases as pT1b; and 47, 34, and 50 cases as pT1c. Higher pT stages based on all measurements were significantly associated with small vessel, large vessel, and perineural invasion (P < 0.05). LS‐, AS‐, and TS‐based pT stages were not significantly associated with recurrence‐free survival (RFS) or overall survival (OS) by univariate or multivariate analyses. However, among tubular‐type carcinomas, higher LS‐, AS‐, and TS‐based pT stages trended with lower RFS (based on 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates). All microscopic measurement methods were most predictive of RFS and OS using a 1.5‐cm cutoff, with LS significantly associated with both RFS and OS by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

For invasive tubular‐type carcinomas arising in IPMN, microscopic size‐based AJCC pT stages were not significant predictors of patient outcomes. However, for LS, a size threshold of 1.5 cm was optimal for stratifying both RFS and OS. The AJCC 8th ed. may not be applicable for stratifying small invasive IPMNs with colloid‐type histology that generally portend a more favourable prognosis.
THE UNCERTAIN STUFF OF HISTORY: OUTLINE OF A THEORY OF INTENTIONALITY—THING BY THING
Authors: REGAZZONI LISA
Published: April 2024

This article addresses the issue of historical knowledge in relation to material evidence. More specifically, it asks, What objects capture the historian's attention and what knowledge is gained from those objects? What does the historian's gaze select as “things of history” and thus as removed from a world of object assemblages and fluid matter? Is it the case that only artifacts deliberately produced or modified by humans (regardless of the purpose) count as “things of history”? Or do physical entities produced by unintended human and nonhuman factors also display temporal endurance or alteration occurring over time and resonate with humans? Are “things of history” only entities endowed with shape, or do formless materials qualify too? In this article, I outline a theory of intentionality in relation to material items for two main reasons. First, it allows for a “critique of material evidence,” which is still missing in the historical discipline. Second, it enables us to address any remaining epistemological, ethical, or political issues, biases, or contradictions associated with the multifaceted research on material culture that affect the way we do history.
Investigation of the constituents of commercially available toothpastes
Authors: Ucuncu Musa Kazim , Guven Kerem , Yazicioglu Oktay
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Toothpaste plays a pivotal role in oral and dental hygiene. This cross‐sectional study not only investigates the constituents of toothpastes available in the market and their frequency across different brands but also delves into the potential side effects, irritations, or unfavourable outcomes of these constituents, emphasizing the broader health and environmental implications.

Methods

The largest of the five major chain markets in each district of Istanbul was visited, and adult toothpastes were included in this study. All the constituents that make up the toothpaste were individually recorded in an Excel database. Subsequently, literature regarding the purposes, toxic and potential side effects of each ingredient was gathered using databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect. The percentages of these ingredients' occurrence among all the toothpastes were calculated, and the ingredients were categorized into 15 distinct groups based on their usage purposes.

Results

There were 160 different varieties of toothpaste belonging to 19 different brands on the market shelves. Although a total of 244 different ingredients were identified, only 78 of them were included in the study. Among the analysed toothpaste types, 105 of them were found to contain 1450 ppm fluoride, whilst 26 toothpaste variants were discovered to have fluoride levels below this value. Among the various ingredients analysed, particular attention was drawn to commonly debated compounds in oral care products. Specifically, titanium dioxide was found in 68% (n = 111) of the varieties, sodium lauryl sulphate in 67% (n = 108) and paraben in 2% (n = 4), respectively.

Conclusion

Whilst certain ingredients may raise concerns for potential side effects and health considerations within the human body, the toothpaste has long been regarded as an indispensable tool for maintaining optimal oral and dental health. However, gaining a deeper understanding and conducting research on each constituent that comprises the toothpaste, as well as raising awareness in this regard, holds significant importance for human health.
Comparison of oral health status, oral hygiene management behaviours and satisfaction of patients with fixed orthodontic appliance and clear aligner: A quasi‐experimental design
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Eun , Kim Soojeong , Kim Da‐Hye
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the overall oral health statuses of patients with fixed orthodontic appliance and clear aligner, as well as their oral hygiene management behaviours and satisfaction.

Methods

We selected 40 participants (20 each with fixed orthodontic devices and clear aligners) who visited a dental clinic. We conducted a survey to determine the oral hygiene management behaviours of the subjects and their satisfaction with their orthodontic treatment. Three measurements were also conducted at 4‐week intervals to determine the oral health statuses of the subjects.

Results

The Löe and Silness gingival index of patients with fixed orthodontic appliances indicated moderate gingivitis (1.1 ± 0.3), and those with clear aligners had mild gingivitis (0.6 ± 0.4) (p < 0.001). The modified O'Leary index also indicated that the degree of dental plaque deposition in the oral cavity was lower in patients treated with a clear aligner (43.0 ± 18.2 points) than in those treated with a fixed orthodontic (28.1 ± 10.9 points) (p = 0.004). Regarding oral hygiene management, the fixed orthodontic group received scaling more frequently (p = 0.006), received more oral health education (p < 0.001) and had a longer brushing time (p = 0.008) than the clear aligner group. No significant difference was observed in satisfaction between the fixed orthodontic appliance and the clear aligner.

Conclusions

Regarding the oral health status by orthodontic appliance type, the clear aligner group had the advantages of reduction in dental plaque attachment and gingival health. The fixed orthodontic group exhibited better oral hygiene management behaviours. Satisfaction with orthodontic treatment was found to be similar for the two device types.
Oral health status of 916 children in Tibetan settlement (Bylakuppe, India): A cross‐sectional descriptive study
Authors: Campisi Giuseppina , Buttacavoli Fortunato , Neri Bruno , Capocasale Giorgia , Mauceri Nicola , Mauceri Rodolfo
Published: April 2024

Background

Dietary and oral hygiene habits among integrated migrant cultural minorities can vary and could impact susceptibility to caries.

Aim

This study aimed to assess and compare the oral health status of Tibetan schoolchildren living in the Tibetan settlement of Bylakuppe, India, stratified by type of residence.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted among Tibetan schoolchildren attending nine schools in the Bylakuppe region.

Results

The study population consisted of 916 children aged 5–17: 702 (76.6%) living in secular houses (LSH) and 214 (23.4%) living in monasteries (LM). The prevalence of dental caries was 70.9%, and the mean value of decayed, missing, filled teeth for mixed and primary dentition (DMFT*; dmft) of LSH children (1.56 ± 2.34/1.74 ± 2.66) was higher than of LM ones (1.14 ± 2.34/0.83 ± 2.80; p < .001). DMFT for LM children (1.46 ± 2.04) was slightly higher than for LSH children (1.38 ± 1.96; p > .05). Among the sample, 99.1% had a good simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI) and LM children showed higher rates of good values (99.5% vs. 98.2% in LSH children). Most children needed preventive/routine dental treatment, whereas 16.6% needed urgent dental treatment. In 4.5% of children, oral mucosal lesions were present.

Conclusion

This study confirms the high need for dental treatment in the children of the Tibetan settlement investigated.
RETRACTED: Risk factors and healing factors for pharyngocutaneous fistula after total laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer: An epidemiological study
Authors: Tai Yong , Liu Fei , Liu Tongxun , Ma Jiqing , Qin Litao , Ji Yuzi , Dai Hanqing , Wang Guangke , Ma Lingcao , Zang Yanzi
Published: April 2024

To analyse the risk factors and healing factors of pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) in patients with laryngeal cancer after total laryngectomy, and to explore the relevant epidemiology. A retrospective analysis was conducted on laryngeal cancer patients who underwent total laryngectomy in our hospital from January 2010 to December 2022. The 349 patients included in the study were divided into a PCF group of 79 and a non‐PCF group of 270. Perform one‐way analysis of variance and multivariate logistic analysis on various data of patients included in the statistics, and analyse the risk factors and healing factors of PCF. Smoking, history of radiation therapy for laryngeal cancer, history of chemotherapy for laryngeal cancer, tumour location (larynx, pharynx, oesophagus), preoperative albumin, postoperative proteinaemia, <99 haemoglobin, postoperative haemoglobin, postoperative C‐reactive protein (CRP) level are the risk factors for PCF. Also, radiation therapy and postoperative proteinaemia were the main reasons for preventing PCF healing. Smoking history, laryngeal cancer, radiation therapy, albumin, haemoglobin and CRP are risk factors for postoperative PCF after total laryngectomy, while radiation therapy and postoperative hypoalbuminaemia are key factors affecting PCF healing.
Heat‐stress‐induced fertility loss in summer maize (Zea mays L.): Quantitative analysis of contributions from developmental and physiological damage to pollen
Authors: Wang Huiqin , Sun Jing , Ren Hao , Zhao Bin , Zhang Jiwang , Ren Baizhao , Liu Peng
Published: April 2024

In recent years, the frequency and intensity of exposure to heat stress have increased gradually, seriously hampering the production of maize. This paper presents a study designed to analyze how the development, physiology and dispersal of pollen from the heat‐resistant maize variety Zhengdan958 and the heat‐sensitive maize variety Xianyu335 are affected by exposure to heat stress during the tasselling stage. Our results showed That exposure to heat stress significantly increased the antioxidant enzyme activity in pollen. Upon visual inspection of the pollen, we found that the lower water content had given rise to wrinkles in the pollen surface, sunken germination pores, and morphological deformations. In addition, the anther dehiscence process was hindered, resulting in a reduced amount of pollen being dispersed. We also found elevated levels of abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA) and its derivatives, indole acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellin‐3 (GA3) in heat‐pollens, as well as elevated ratios of IAA to ABA and ABA to GA3. Ultimately impaired pollen fertility. Summarizing, our experiment revealed that reduced pollen quantity and quality are significant contributors to fertility losses in summer maize exposed to heat stress at anthesis, and we hope that our analysis of the physiological mechanisms involved can contribute to the development of crop management measures aimed at countering the increasingly detrimental effects of heat stress on the production of summer maize.
No optimal spatial filtering distance for mitigating sampling bias in ecological niche models
Authors: Lamboley Quentin , Fourcade Yoan
Published: April 2024

Aim

The continuous development of statistical tools applied to ecology has contributed to great advances for modelling species' niches and distributions from opportunistic observations. However, as these observations are subject to biases caused by spatial variation in sampling effort, ecological niche models (ENMs) are also frequently biased. Among several bias correction methods that have been proposed, spatial filtering—imposing a minimum distance between occurrences—is widely used, yet lacks clear guidelines for choosing the filtering distance. Here, we aimed to explore the impact of spatial filtering distances on the performance of ENMs.

Location

Europe.

Taxon

Virtual species.

Methods

We applied ENMs to two virtual species with contrasting levels of specialisation, across a spectrum of modelling conditions, bias types and sample sizes.

Results

Models applied to the specialist species had on average a lower performance than those applied to the generalist species. Using a biased sample reduced model performance, especially when the bias was strong, and when the sample size was large. In many cases, spatial filtering failed to improve model performance or even reduced it. We did find an improvement for the generalist species modelled with large and strongly biased datasets. However, there was no optimal filtering distance, as this improvement was linearly and positively associated with filtering distance. Moreover, because the initial bias was strong and the filtered dataset became very small, the resulting models had only very low accuracy.

Main Conclusions

Our results suggest that there is no optimal filtering distance for dealing with sampling bias in ENMs, and that spatial filtering never improves model performance enough to draw accurate predictions. We therefore recommend spatial filtering to be employed cautiously, only when enough data are available, and bearing in mind that its effectiveness remains highly uncertain.
Social and joint attention during shared book reading in young autistic children: a potential marker for social development
Authors: Ambarchi Zahava , Boulton Kelsie A. , Thapa Rinku , Arciuli Joanne , DeMayo Marilena M. , Hickie Ian B. , Thomas Emma E. , Guastella Adam J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Atypical patterns of social engagement and joint attention behaviors are diagnostic criteria for people with autism spectrum disorder. Experimental tasks using eye‐tracking methodologies have, however, shown inconsistent results. The development of tasks with greater ecological validity and relevance for developmentally appropriate social milestones has been identified as important for the field.

Methods

We developed a novel, dynamic eye‐tracking task emulating a shared book reading (SBR) scenario. Four SBR videos of an adult reader engaging with the viewer while reading a children's picture book and including sequenced bids for joint attention were developed. Participants included 90 children (N = 56 autistic children, N = 34 neurotypical children; aged 3–12). Social attention was also measured in a live free play task between participants and an experimenter.

Results

Compared to neurotypical children, autistic children displayed reduced attention to socially salient stimuli including the reader's face and picture book across SBR videos and during joint attention bids specifically. In contrast, they showed increased attention to nonsalient background stimuli compared to their neurotypical peers. These attention patterns in autistic children were associated with reduced verbal and nonverbal cognitive skills and increased symptoms associated with autism. Interestingly, positive correlations in the frequency of eye gaze between SBR and free play suggested a potential predictive value for social attention in live social interactions.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the utility of SBR eye‐tracking tasks in understanding underlying divergences in social engagement and joint attention between autistic and neurotypical children. This commonly practiced early childhood activity may provide insights into the relationship between social engagement and learning to reveal how such attentional patterns might influence broader developmental and educational outcomes.
Longitudinal trajectories of suicidal ideation among child welfare‐involved 7‐ to 12‐year‐old children
Authors: Ayer Lynsay , Hassler Gabriel , Ohana Elie , Sheftall Arielle H. , Anderson Nathaniel W. , Griffin Beth Ann
Published: April 2024

Background

Young children involved in the child welfare system (CWS) are at high risk for suicidal ideation (SI) at a time when overall rates of suicide death in this age group are rising. Yet risk factors for and changes in SI over time are poorly understood in this population.

Method

We combined data from two large representative longitudinal studies of children involved in the United States CWS. We examined patterns of SI among children who were between ages 7 and 12 years at the initial survey wave (N = 2,186), assessed at three waves using a measure of SI in the past 2 weeks. We conducted a multinomial regression to understand the baseline demographic, child maltreatment, and mental health characteristics that distinguish the trajectories.

Results

There were eight different subgroups (Non‐Ideators, Late Ideators, Boomerang Ideators, Delayed Ideators, Desisters, Boomerang Non‐Ideators, Late Desisters, and Persisters). Differences in race, type of maltreatment, sex, and mental health symptoms were identified when comparing Persisters (SI at all three waves) to other groups.

Conclusions

These findings can help researchers and practitioners to develop strategies for better identifying CWS‐involved children who are in greatest need of suicide risk monitoring and intervention.
Obesity is linked to disease severity in moderate to severe atopic dermatitis—Data from the prospective observational TREATgermany registry
Authors: Traidl Stephan , Hollstein Moritz M. , Kroeger Nadine , Fischer Sascha , Heratizadeh Annice , Heinrich Luise , Kind Barbara , Siegels Doreen , Abraham Susanne , Schäfer Thomas , Augustin Matthias , Harder Inken , Pinter Andreas , Schäkel Knut , Wollenberg Andreas , Ertner Konstantin , Ramaker‐Brunke Jutta , Bong Anne , Quist Sven , Gorriahn‐Maiterth Hannah , Schenck Florian , Sticherling Michael , Effendy Isaak , Schwarz Beate , Handrick Christiane , Asmussen Andrea , Weidinger Stephan , Schmitt Jochen , Werfel Thomas ,   The TREATgermany Study Group
Published: April 2024

Background

There are conflicting data on a potential association between obesity and atopic dermatitis (AD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between obesity and AD disease severity.

Methods

Patients from the TREATgermany registry cohort were divided into three groups according to their body mass index (BMI). Due to low numbers, underweight patients (BMI <18.5 kg/m2) were excluded from the analysis. Physician‐ and patient‐reported disease severity scores as well as additional phenotypic characteristics were evaluated for association with BMI. Generalized linear mixed models and multinomial logit models, respectively, were applied to investigate the association of BMI, age, sex and current systemic AD treatment with disease severity.

Results

This study encompassed 1416 patients, of which 234 (16.5%) were obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Obesity was associated with lower educational background and smoking. Otherwise, obese and non‐obese AD patients had similar baseline characteristics. Increased BMI was associated with higher oSCORAD (adjusted β: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.05–1.46, p = 0.013) and Patient‐oriented eczema measure (POEM) (adjusted β: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01–1.17, p = 0.038). However, the absolute difference in the overall oSCORAD was small between obese and non‐obese AD patients (Δ oSCORAD = 2.5). Allergic comorbidity was comparable between all three groups, with the exception of asthma which was more pronounced in obese patients (p < 0.001).

Discussion

In this large and well‐characterized AD patient cohort, obesity is significantly associated with physician‐ and patient‐assessed measures of AD disease severity. However, the corresponding effect sizes were low and of questionable clinical relevance. The overall prevalence of obesity among the German AD patients was lower than in studies on other AD cohorts from different countries, which confirms previous research on the German population and suggests regional differences in the interdependence of AD and obesity prevalence.
The effect of home‐based exercise on motor and non‐motor symptoms with Parkinson's disease patients: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Gao Xianqi , Zhang Haoyang , Fu Xueying , Yang Yong , Dou Jiejie
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effects of home‐based exercise in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients.

Design

A network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods

This study systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane library and Web of Science. The quality of the literature was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 criteria. The data were pooled using R software. Results are presented as pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Thirty studies involving 2264 PD patients were included. Meta‐analysis results showed that home‐based exercise had a small effect in relieving overall motor symptoms in PD patients (SMD: −.28, 95% Crl [−.43; −.14]), improving quality of life (SMD = .15 [.03, .26]), walking speed (SMD = .30 [.04, .56]), balance ability (SMD = .18 [.04, .33]; p < .0001) and finger dexterity (SMD = .28 [.10, .46]). Mixed exercise (Mix) had better effects on improving motor symptoms and quality of life. In addition, the results of dose analysis showed that only mixed exercise exceeding 850 METs‐min per week and more than 18 weeks can significantly alleviate the overall motor symptoms of PD patients.

Conclusion

Home‐based exercise was an effective form of therapy for alleviating motor symptoms. In addition, Mix appeared to be more suitable for PD patients engaging in home‐based exercise. Existing evidence suggested that significant therapeutic effects were achieved with a Mix, with a weekly exercise volume exceeding 850 METs and a duration of more than 18 weeks.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Home‐based exercise had a small effect in relieving overall motor symptoms in PD patients, improving quality of life, walking speed, balance ability and finger dexterity. In terms of exercise dosage, we recommend the exercise period is no less than 18 weeks and the dose per is no less than 850 METs‐min. No Patient or Public Contribution.
Motherhood myths and mystiques: How childless women navigate cultural beliefs about motherhood
Authors: Hummer Holly
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective

This study identifies five common, cultural beliefs that women perceive as encouraging motherhood in the United States and examines how they impact the parenthood decision‐making and experiences of currently childless women.

Background

Research shows how cultural ideas about “good” motherhood impact women's lives. We know less about the role of cultural beliefs that encourage motherhood despite its well‐known hardships, nor how currently childless women navigate these beliefs.

Method

This study uses 107 interviews with American women ages 35–50 who for varied reasons have not (yet) had children. It identifies five prominent beliefs about motherhood and examines how currently childless women consider and respond to them.

Results

Two beliefs—that motherhood provides fulfillment and that children ensure future security—functioned more as “myths” and were often rejected by interviewees. Three beliefs—that women are “wired” to want children; women are nurturing; and motherhood bestows a unique form of joy —functioned as essentialist “mystiques,” remaining unquestioned or only slightly revised by interviewees. Further, all beliefs, but particularly the “mystiques,” complicated many women's parenthood decision‐making processes and experiences of childlessness.

Conclusion

To understand how the institution of motherhood impacts women who have not (yet) had children, it is crucial to account for the role of cultural beliefs that support its appeal. This study highlights the heterogeneous ways that cultural beliefs that encourage motherhood impact women's parenthood decision‐making and their experiences of childlessness. It emphasizes, in particular, the durability and universality of essentialist ideas (mystiques) about motherhood.
Body composition and associated factors among 5–7‐year‐old children with moderate acute malnutrition in Jimma town in southwest Ethiopia: A comparative cross‐sectional study
Authors: Teshome Melese Sinaga , Bekele Tamirat , Verbecque Evi , Mingels Sarah , Granitzer Marita , Abessa Teklu Gemechu , Lema Tefera Belachew , Rameckers Eugene
Published: April 2024

Acute malnutrition affects not only the growth and development but also the body composition of children. However, its specific effects have not yet been characterized. This study aims to compare the body composition of 5–7‐year‐old children with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) to that of their well‐nourished (WN) peers and identify associated factors. A school‐based comparative cross‐sectional study was conducted from June to July 2022 in Jimma town, southwest Ethiopia. The study participants were selected from eight kindergartens and eight primary schools using a simple random sampling technique based on the proportional allocation of the sample to the size of the population in the respective school. Descriptive statistics and multivariable linear regression analyses were used to assess the mean differences and associations between variables and isolate independent predictors of body composition, respectively. The statistical significance was determined using ß‐coefficients with 95% confidence intervals and a p value of ≤ 0.05. Data were captured from 388 (194 MAM and 194 WN) children with a response rate of 97.9%. The mean fat‐free mass of WN children was significantly higher compared with those with MAM (p < 0.001). The mean (SD) of fat mass of MAM children was 4.23 ± 0.72 kg, 4.36 ± 0.88 kg and 4.08 ± 0.89 kg for 5, 6 and 7‐year‐olds, respectively. For WN children, the mean (SD) of fat mass was 4.92 ± 0.88 kg for 5 years old, 5.64 ± 1.01 kg for 6 years old and 5.75 ± 1.26 kg for 7 years old (p < 0.001). On the multivariable linear regression analysis after controlling for background variables, WN children exhibited 1.51 times higher fat‐free mass compared with MAM children (β = 1.51, p = 0.003). A unit increase in age of the study participants was associated with a 1.37 increment in fat‐free mass (β = 1.37, p  < 0.001). WN children had 1.07 times higher fat mass compared with children with MAM (β = 1.07, p < 0.001). A unit increase in the age of the child resulted in 0.15 times increment in fat mass (β = 0.15, p = 0.020), and being female was associated with a 0.37 increase in fat mass (β = 0.37, p < 0.001). The results showed that the mean fat mass and fat‐free mass were significantly lower among moderately acute malnourished children than in WN children showing the loss of both body compartments due to malnutrition. The body mass index for age, age of the child and sex of the child were significantly linked to both fat‐free mass and fat mass.