bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Horizontal ridge augmentation with particulate cortico‐cancellous freeze‐dried bone allograft alone or combined with injectable‐platelet rich fibrin in a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zahedi Leili , Mohammadi Mohammad , Kalantari Mahsa , Arabsolghar Mohaddeseh , Ranjbar Hadi
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of horizontal ridge augmentation using FDBA in combination with injectable‐platelet rich fibrin (i‐PRF) versus FDBA alone. To fulfill this aim, the radiographic and histomorphometric outcomes are compared.

Method

The study involved 41 patients who had horizontal alveolar ridge defects categorized as either B (2.5–7 mm) or C (0–2.5 mm). The control group received FDBA alone (n = 20), while the test group received FDBA in combination with i‐PRF (n = 21). The horizontal dimensions of the alveolar ridge were measured at 0, 2, 4, and 6 mm from the bone crest using CBCT before and 6 months after alveolar ridge augmentation. In the second‐stage surgery, 24 biopsies were taken from the augmented bone — 13 from the control group and 11 from the test group, and were examined histologically and histomorphometrically. The data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient, chi‐square, paired‐t, and two‐sample t tests.

Results

There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the increase of mean ridge width between the test group and the control group after 6 months at distances of 0, 2, 4, and 6 mm from the crest, with differences of −0.28, 0.12, 0.52, and 1.04 mm, respectively. However, the amount of newly formed bone and material residues was significantly higher in the FDBA + i‐PRF group compared to the FDBA alone group (45.01% and 13.06% vs 54.03% and 8.48%, respectively). There was no significant difference in the amount of soft tissue between the two groups (41.02% and 37.5%, p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The study found that there was no statistically significant difference in the increase of horizontal ridge width between the FDBA + i‐PRF group and the FDBA group. However, the histomorphometric analysis revealed that the FDBA + i‐PRF group had a higher proportion of newly formed bone, less connective tissue, and fewer residual particles. This suggests a superior quality of bone formation compared to the FDBA group.
Acrylates in artificial nails—Results of product analyses and glove penetration studies
Authors: Suuronen Katri , Ylinen Katriina , Heikkilä Jaakko , Mäkelä Erja , Vastapuu Raija , Aalto‐Korte Kristiina , Pesonen Maria
Published: December 2023

Background

Artificial nail materials are mixtures that are prone to contain several sensitizing (meth)acrylates. It is not known whether the listing of (meth)acrylates is correct in these products' packages. Protective gloves suited for nail work are needed.

Objectives

To analyse (meth)acrylates in gel nail and acrylic nail products chemically and to compare the results with the information in the product labels, and to study penetration of artificial nail materials through selected disposable gloves.

Methods

We analysed 31 gel nail products and 6 acrylic nail products for their (meth)acrylate content by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). We tested the penetration of two nail products through three disposable gloves: nitrile rubber, neoprene rubber and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Results

Altogether 32/37 products contained (meth)acrylates. In all of them, there was discrepancy between the listed (meth)acrylates and those discovered in the analysis. The commonest (meth)acrylates were hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA, 20/37 samples) and hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA, 9/37 samples), but many of the product packages failed to declare them. Isobornyl acrylate (IBA) was discovered in nine gel nail products. The neoprene glove could withstand nail gel for 20 min and thin nitrile glove and PVC glove for 5 min. Acrylic nail liquid penetrated through disposable gloves quickly.

Conclusions

Labelling of artificial nail products was notably incorrect on most products. Requirements for product labelling must be updated so that the risk of sensitization associated with artificial nail products is clearly indicated. Disposable gloves can probably be used short‐term in gel nail work, whereas disposable gloves do not protect the user from acrylic nail liquids.
DNA methylation regulates RNA m6A modification through transcription factor SP1 during the development of porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos
Authors: Zhang Meng , Zhai Yanhui , An Xinglan , Li Qi , Zhang Daoyu , Zhou Yongfeng , Zhang Sheng , Dai Xiangpeng , Li Ziyi
Published: December 2023

Epigenetic modifications play critical roles during somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryo development. Whether RNA N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) affects the developmental competency of SCNT embryos remains unclear. Here, we showed that porcine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (pBMSCs) presented higher RNA m6A levels than those of porcine embryonic fibroblasts (pEFs). SCNT embryos derived from pBMSCs had higher RNA m6A levels, cleavage, and blastocyst rates than those from pEFs. Compared with pEFs, the promoter region of METTL14 presented a hypomethylation status in pBMSCs. Mechanistically, DNA methylation regulated METTL14 expression by affecting the accessibility of transcription factor SP1 binding, highlighting the role of the DNA methylation/SP1/METTL14 pathway in donor cells. Inhibiting the DNA methylation level in donor cells increased the RNA m6A level and improved the development efficiency of SCNT embryos. Overexpression of METTL14 significantly increased the RNA m6A level in donor cells and the development efficiency of SCNT embryos, whereas knockdown of METTL14 suggested the opposite result. Moreover, we revealed that RNA m6A‐regulated TOP2B mRNA stability, translation level, and DNA damage during SCNT embryo development. Collectively, our results highlight the crosstalk between RNA m6A and DNA methylation, and the crucial role of RNA m6A during nuclear reprogramming in SCNT embryo development.
The urgency of Burkitt lymphoma diagnosis in fluid cytology—A tertiary care experience
Authors: Ravi Soundarya , Devi Anu K. , Manivannan Prabhu , Gochhait Debasis , Kar Rakhee , Siddaraju Neelaiah
Published: December 2023

Background

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive high‐grade B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma commonly diagnosed in young age and is known to involve extra nodal sites. But the involvement of body fluids by BL is an uncommon presentation. Rapid diagnosis of BL is vital to prevent complications like tumour lysis syndrome. Cytological examination of body fluids continues to be an indispensable tool for rapid diagnosis of BL.

Objectives

In this study, we aim to study the clinical, cytomorphological and immunophenotypic characteristics of BL involving serous effusions and other fluids.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective study, 17 cases reported as BL in fluid cytology from 2016 to 2022 were collected and reviewed. We performed a comprehensive analysis of the clinical data, cytomorphological features, immunophenotyping data along with the haematological workup of these cases. We have also compared with the histopathological diagnosis for those cases where biopsy was available.

Results

BL more commonly involved ascitic fluid (52%), followed by pleural fluid (4 cases) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; 4 cases). Primary diagnosis of BL in fluid was done in 88% of the cases. Bone marrow involvement was noted in two cases. Cytological smears showed discrete monomorphous population of medium‐sized atypical lymphoid cells with frequent apoptotic bodies. Classic cytoplasmic punched out vacuoles were observed in 88% of the cases. Immunophenotyping data was available for 12 cases in which tumour cells showed positivity for CD20 (100%), CD10 (4 of 7 cases), BCL6 (3 of 5 cases) and cMYC (7 of 7 cases—100%) and were negative for Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) (11 of 11 cases). Mean Ki67 labelling index was 95%. Histopathological diagnosis was available for 9 cases, and there was 100% agreement between cytological and histopathological diagnosis in 7 cases.

Conclusion

Precise diagnosis of BL can be rendered in body fluids by identification of classic cytomorphological features and by performing supportive ancillary tests in fluids for immunophenotyping.
Nucleus accumbens and dorsal medial striatal dopamine and neural activity are essential for action sequence performance
Authors: Fraser Kurt M. , Chen Bridget J. , Janak Patricia H.
Published: December 2023

Separable striatal circuits have unique functions in Pavlovian and instrumental behaviors but how these roles relate to performance of sequences of actions with and without associated cues are less clear. Here, we tested whether dopamine transmission and neural activity more generally in three striatal subdomains are necessary for performance of an action chain leading to reward delivery. Male and female Long‐Evans rats were trained to press a series of three spatially distinct levers to receive reward. We assessed the contribution of neural activity or dopamine transmission within each striatal subdomain when progression through the action sequence was explicitly cued and in the absence of cues. Behavior in both task variations was substantially impacted following microinfusion of the dopamine antagonist, flupenthixol, into nucleus accumbens core (NAc) or dorsomedial striatum (DMS), with impairments in sequence timing and numbers of rewards earned after NAc flupenthixol. In contrast, after pharmacological inactivation to suppress overall activity, there was minimal impact on total rewards earned. Instead, inactivation of both NAc and DMS impaired sequence timing and led to sequence errors in the uncued, but not cued task. There was no impact of dopamine antagonism or reversible inactivation of dorsolateral striatum on either cued or uncued action sequence completion. These results highlight an essential contribution of NAc and DMS dopamine systems in motivational and performance aspects of chains of actions, whether cued or internally generated, as well as the impact of intact NAc and DMS function for correct sequence performance.
Defining points and transformative turns in family violence, parenting and coparenting disputes
Authors: Saini Michael A. , Deutsch Robin M. , Drozd Leslie M.
Published: December 2023

Family violence is a multifaceted issue encompassing various harmful behaviors within familial relationships. This paper explores the definitional problems presented in this special issue on family violence and its impact on parenting and coparenting. By examining the shifts and expansions of concepts related to family violence over time, we highlight the transformative turns in this special issue that have helped us to clarify our understanding of family violence. We explore the transformative expansions of family violence by situating this exploration within a “concept creep” analysis. We make a note of the underlying assumptions associated with these concepts. Through an analysis of concept creep, we elucidate how the expansions and redefinition of violence‐related terms have influenced our understanding of family violence. By differentiating family violence, intimate partner violence, and maltreatment, we emphasize the necessity of unpacking these terms to avoid oversimplification or overlooking certain forms of violence that may go unnoticed under narrow definitions. The authors further highlight the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address the complexities of family violence and its impact on parenting and coparenting. By acknowledging and responding to expansions of concepts in family violence, we can strive to protect and support children in these challenging circumstances, ultimately promoting their well‐being and creating safer family environments.
Nature 4.0: A networked sensor system for integrated biodiversity monitoring
Authors: Zeuss Dirk , Bald Lisa , Gottwald Jannis , Becker Marcel , Bellafkir Hicham , Bendix Jörg , Bengel Phillip , Beumer Larissa T. , Brandl Roland , Brändle Martin , Dahlke Stephan , Farwig Nina , Freisleben Bernd , Friess Nicolas , Heidrich Lea , Heuer Sven , Höchst Jonas , Holzmann Hajo , Lampe Patrick , Leberecht Martin , Lindner Kim , Masello Juan F. , Mielke Möglich Jonas , Mühling Markus , Müller Thomas , Noskov Alexey , Opgenoorth Lars , Peter Carina , Quillfeldt Petra , Rösner Sascha , Royauté Raphaël , Mestre‐Runge Christian , Schabo Dana , Schneider Daniel , Seeger Bernhard , Shayle Elliot , Steinmetz Ralf , Tafo Pavel , Vogelbacher Markus , Wöllauer Stephan , Younis Sohaib , Zobel Julian , Nauss Thomas
Published: December 2023

Ecosystem functions and services are severely threatened by unprecedented global loss in biodiversity. To counteract these trends, it is essential to develop systems to monitor changes in biodiversity for planning, evaluating, and implementing conservation and mitigation actions. However, the implementation of monitoring systems suffers from a trade‐off between grain (i.e., the level of detail), extent (i.e., the number of study sites), and temporal repetition. Here, we present an applied and realized networked sensor system for integrated biodiversity monitoring in the Nature 4.0 project as a solution to these challenges, which considers plants and animals not only as targets of investigation, but also as parts of the modular sensor network by carrying sensors. Our networked sensor system consists of three main closely interlinked components with a modular structure: sensors, data transmission, and data storage, which are integrated into pipelines for automated biodiversity monitoring. We present our own real‐world examples of applications, share our experiences in operating them, and provide our collected open data. Our flexible, low‐cost, and open‐source solutions can be applied for monitoring individual and multiple terrestrial plants and animals as well as their interactions. Ultimately, our system can also be applied to area‐wide ecosystem mapping tasks, thereby providing an exemplary cost‐efficient and powerful solution for biodiversity monitoring. Building upon our experiences in the Nature 4.0 project, we identified ten key challenges that need to be addressed to better understand and counteract the ongoing loss of biodiversity using networked sensor systems. To tackle these challenges, interdisciplinary collaboration, additional research, and practical solutions are necessary to enhance the capability and applicability of networked sensor systems for researchers and practitioners, ultimately further helping to ensure the sustainable management of ecosystems and the provision of ecosystem services.
A comprehensive examination of research instruments utilized for assessing the attitudes of healthcare professionals towards the use of restraints in mental healthcare: A systematic review
Authors: Bachmann Liv , Ødegård Atle , Mundal Ingunn Pernille
Published: December 2023

Aim

This systematic review aimed to identify, describe and evaluate questionnaires measuring health professionals’ attitudes towards restraints in mental healthcare.

Design

A systematic review was undertaken in accordance with the COSMIN protocol for systematic review and the relevant sections of the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses.

Data Sources

OVID Medline, OVID nursing, Psychinfo, Embase and Cinahl were systematically searched from databases inception, with an initial search in December 2021 and updated in April 2022.

Review Methods

The inclusion criteria compromised articles reporting on self‐reported instruments of attitudes or perceptions, development or validation of instruments and the evaluation of one or more measurement properties. Articles using multiple instruments in one study or not published in English were excluded. Two researchers independently extracted the data and appraised the methodological quality using the COSMIN guidelines and standards (consensus‐based standards for the selection of health measurement instrument). A narrative synthesis without meta‐analysis was performed. The systematic review was registered in PROSPERO Protocol ID CRD42022308818.

Results

A total of 23 studies reporting ten instruments were included. The findings revealed a broad variation in the content of the questionnaires, the use of terms/constructs and the context in which the various instruments measure attitudes towards coercive measures. Many studies lacked sufficient details on report of psychometric properties. Finally, the results were not summarized and the evidence not GRADED.

Conclusions

There is a need for updated and adapted instruments with origins in theory and clear joint definitions such that attitudes towards coercive measures can be reliably assessed regarding the validity and reliability of instruments, which will be of importance to facilitate the use of instruments in research and clinical settings.

Impact

Reviews addressing surveys, self‐reported attitudes towards restraints in mental healthcare and examination of psychometric properties seem limited. We highlight distinct complexity, psychometric limitations and broad variation in the context and content measuring attitudes towards coercive measures, and their various use of terms/constructs in the existing questionnaires. These findings contribute to further research regarding the development of questionnaires and the need of representing the concept well – carefully denoted by the indicators, likewise the importance of applying questionnaires with properly reported measurement properties in terms of validity and reliability to ensure the use in research and clinical settings.
‘There's a timebomb’: Planning for parental death and transitions in care for older people with intellectual disabilities and their families
Authors: Anderson‐Kittow Rebecca J. , Keagan‐Bull Richard , Giles Jo , Tuffrey‐Wijne Irene
Published: December 2023

Background

Increasing numbers of older adults with intellectual disabilities are living with ageing parents. These families need support to plan for the future to avoid crisis interventions following parental death.

Method

Interviews and focus groups were conducted with people with intellectual disabilities (aged 40+) (N = 9), parents (N = 11) and siblings (N = 16) to understand their perspectives about living with parents and future planning. Data were analysed using framework analysis.

Results

Four themes were identified: ‘What matters to me’, ‘When should we plan’, ‘What are the options’ and ‘Who will help’. Participants knew they needed to make plans but did not feel supported to do so. While they viewed moving as an opportunity for independence, they feared there were no viable alternatives.

Conclusion

Person‐centred resources and support are needed for families to plan for transitions in care, including proactive approaches from social services and help to prepare for conversations with social care professionals.
Ethics, Abortion Access, and Emergency Care Post‐Dobbs: The Gray Areas
Authors: Tillman Stephanie , Eagen‐Torkko Meghan , Levi Amy
Published: December 2023

Clinical management of emergency pregnancy care, such as ectopic pregnancy or heavy bleeding with pregnancy of unknown location, includes upholding legal and ethical standards. For health care providers unwilling to provide evidence‐based life‐saving abortion care due to personal beliefs, clear guidance dictates disclosure of these limitations to the patient and colleagues, followed by immediate referral for appropriate care. However, this decision‐making pathway may not be engaged due to a variety of factors: providers’ beliefs preclude adherence to referral responsibilities, political discourse confuses patients as to their options and rights, and a constantly changing state and national legal landscape leads providers to question their ability to practice to their full scope of clinical care. Although this disruption of evidence‐based standard of care existed pre‐Dobbs, the moral disorder is now heightened. This Clinical Rounds highlights a patient vignette describing the risks of abortion restrictions for patients and providers alike, particularly when an individual provider's concerns for violating institutional guidelines sets a precedent for nursing response and forecloses on collaborative input or ethics consultation. The history of physician‐only abortion exceptionalism and exclusion of nurses and midwives despite a significant history of nurses and midwives in abortion care grounds an argument for focusing on the impact of unethical and substandard care on the interprofessional care team leading to moral distress and negative patient outcomes. Patient‐centered models of care, such as frameworks common in nursing and midwifery, offer opportunities to consider how all providers practicing to their full scope in interprofessional and collaborative ways, such as in emergency rooms and labor departments, might mitigate obstructions to abortion care that risk pregnant people's lives.
Correlating facial skin parameters with age and gender in population of Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Huang Fengyu , Wang Xin , Zhang Mengmeng , Wang Lifang , Wang Yanfeng , Hu Yong , Dong Taiwei , Wei Peifeng
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study was designed to comprehensively evaluate the changes in facial skin biophysical parameters with age, as well the influence of gender differences in populations of Shaanxi Province, China.

Methods

Fourteen skin parameters, including stratum corneum hydration (SCH), transdermal water loss (TEWL), erythema, melanin, R0, R2, R5, R7, F4, gloss, skin surface pH, skin erythema index (a*), wrinkle length, and sebum, were measured by noninvasive instruments in 481 volunteers from Shaanxi Province. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to analyze the relationship between skin parameters and age. Additionally, skin parameters were analyzed for different age groups and different genders.

Results

The results of the study showed a linear decrease in skin surface pH and sebum content with age, and the skin elasticity parameters R0, R2, R5, and R7 decreased significantly at the age of 54–65 years. Wrinkle length showed a linear and increase with age. R5 showed a weak negative correlation with age, R2, R7, and sebum content showed a moderate negative correlation, while wrinkle length showed a strong positive correlation. Considering the effect of gender on skin parameters, the results showed that SCH and gloss were lower in men than in women, while TEWL, erythema, melanin, wrinkle length, and sebum were higher than in women. However, there was no difference in skin elasticity between them.

Conclusion

The facial skin parameters, especially for the wrinkle length, exhibited the strong correlation relationship with ages in Shaanxi Province. Meanwhile, most skin parameters show significant differences with gender, which can provide a reference for future research and development in the field of cosmetics.
Comparing novel virtual reality and nursing standard care on burn wound care pain in adolescents: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jeffs Debra A. , Spray Beverly J. , Baxley Lauren , Braden Eric , Files Amber , Marrero Elizabeth , Teague Tiffany , Teo Esther , Yelvington Miranda
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study compared the effectiveness of age‐appropriate, high technology, interactive virtual reality (VR) distraction with standard care (SC) provided by the nurse on adolescents' acute procedural pain intensity perception during burn wound care treatment in the ambulatory clinic setting.

Design

This randomized controlled trial included 43 adolescents ages 10–21 from the ambulatory burn clinic of a large children's hospital.

Methods

Blinded study participants were randomly assigned to either VR or SC (non‐significantly different, current mean burn surface area, 1.3 and 1.7, respectively) during the first burn wound care procedure in the burn clinic. Blinded research staff collected pre‐procedure data including Spielberger's State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory and postprocedure wound care pain intensity using the Adolescent Pediatric Pain Tool. A total of 41 participants completed all study procedures.

Results

No statistically significant difference in burn wound care procedural pain was noted between the VR and SC groups after adjusting for several factors. Pre‐procedure state and trait anxiety correlated with reported pre‐procedure pain. Wound care pain was found to be significantly associated with pre‐wound care pain score, time from original burn to clinic burn care treatment, and length of wound care treatment. These factors accounted for approximately 45% of the variation in pain scores during wound care treatment.

Practice Implications

VR distraction can be a useful pain management strategy but may not take the place of the unique nurse‐patient relationship that occurs during clinical encounters. Tailoring pain management during burn wound care requires consideration of anxiety, time from the burn injury to the wound care procedure, length of time of the wound care procedure, and pretreatment pain level. Knowing patients' needs, desires, and temperaments along with the specifics about the healthcare procedures are critical to formulating individualized care plans that may or may not include VR. Newer technology, such as easier‐to‐use, less expensive VR, may assist with translation into practice making its clinical use more routine.
Relationship between thyroid function and sex hormones in female German shepherd dogs
Authors: Scarpa Paola , Tagliasacchi Filippo , Iavazzo Francesca , Beccaglia Michela , Monino Adriano , Dri Paolo , Milite Gianpaolo
Published: December 2023

Background

Several variables influence the serum concentration of thyroid hormones in dogs, including breed, age, drugs, and concurrent diseases. However, data regarding the interaction between thyroid function and the estrous stage of female dogs are limited.

Hypothesis

Estrous stage may influence thyroid function in German Shepherd dogs.

Methods

Longitudinal, observational, non‐randomized cohort study. The dogs were monitored during the complete estrous cycle, and different stages were determined by vaginal cytology. Two blood samples were collected at the beginning and end of each stage to analyze the following: total thyroxine (TT4), free thyroxine (fT4), total triiodothyronine (TT3), free triiodothyronine (fT3), canine thyrotropin (cTSH), progesterone, 17‐β‐estradiol, triglycerides, and cholesterol concentrations. Hematological and biochemical evaluations were performed at the beginning and end of the study period.

Animals

Seventeen German Shepherds were included, of which 7 were bred during the study period. One dog was excluded for estrus interruption and another for suspected hypothyroidism.

Results

Serum concentrations of T4, fT4, and fT3 were negatively correlated with age. Total thyroxine demonstrated significant changes in serum concentrations between estrous stages, with higher concentrations in estrus and diestrus. Total thyroxine concentrations were positively correlated with progesterone concentrations and negatively correlated with 17‐β‐estradiol concentrations. Free thyroxine did not show significant variations but was positively correlated with progesterone concentrations. Canine TSH concentrations were positively correlated with 17‐β‐estradiol concentrations. No significant differences in thyroid hormones and cTSH concentrations were observed between diestrus during pregnancy and pseudopregnancy.

Conclusions

Different stages of estrus can influence the measurement of TT4 in female dogs.
Intravenous loss of over‐the‐wire catheter guidewires in 13 horses
Authors: Hobbs Kallie J. , Young Kimberly A. S. , Nannarone Sara , Luethy Daniela , Hopster‐Iversen Charlotte , McKenzie Harold C. , Ludwig Elsa K.
Published: December 2023

Background

Over‐the‐wire (OTW) catheter placement is performed frequently in horses. Intravascular loss of a guidewire has been anecdotally reported, but there is limited information regarding the treatment and outcome of horses that have experienced this complication of OTW catheter placement.

Objectives

Describe the clinical and diagnostic features, treatment, and outcome of horses experiencing IV guidewire loss at the time of OTW catheter placement.

Animals

Thirteen horses.

Methods

Multicenter retrospective study to identify horses with IV guidewire loss. Horses of all ages were considered for inclusion. Horses were excluded from the study if complete medical records of signalment, indication, and outcome were not available. Intravenous guidewire loss was defined as the guidewire being lost IV at the time of OTW catheter placement.

Results

No horses in this study experienced adverse clinical signs associated with the loss of a guidewire. Eight horses had the guidewire removed and the guidewire was left in situ in 5 horses. None of the horses with the guidewire in situ had experienced long‐term effects.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Intravenous guidewire loss seems to have a good long‐term prognosis even in horses in which removal of the guidewire was not possible. Thus, in horses where guidewire removal is not feasible, guidewires that remain in situ may have limited to no adverse effects.
Common Content, Philosophy, and Programming Support Thriving Collaborations Between Cognitive Science Labs and Museums
Authors: Dillon Moira R. , Lawrence Cindy R.
Published: December 2023

University research labs focusing on education, psychology, and cognitive development have been collaborating with museums more and more over the past decade. Nevertheless, cognitive science labs that primarily engage in basic as opposed to applied research may find it difficult to entice museums to collaborate, and existing collaborations may fall short of their full potential to garner benefits to labs and museums alike. Here, we focus on a kind of lab and museum collaboration that has common content, philosophy, and programming and impacts both scientific theory development and museum practice. By illustrating one example of a collaboration between the Lab for the Developing Mind at New York University and the National Museum of Mathematics in New York City, we offer practical tips and suggestions for other cognitive science labs aiming to achieve strong lab‐museum synergy.
Hypometabolism to survive the long polar night and subsequent successful return to light in the diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus
Authors: Joli Nathalie , Concia Lorenzo , Mocaer Karel , Guterman Julie , Laude Juliette , Guerin Sebastien , Sciandra Theo , Bruyant Flavienne , Ait‐Mohamed Ouardia , Beguin Marine , Forget Marie‐Helene , Bourbousse Clara , Lacour Thomas , Bailleul Benjamin , Nef Charlotte , Savoie Mireille , Tremblay Jean‐Eric , Campbell Douglas A. , Lavaud Johann , Schwab Yannick , Babin Marcel , Bowler Chris
Published: December 2023

Diatoms, the main eukaryotic phytoplankton of the polar marine regions, are essential for the maintenance of food chains specific to Arctic and Antarctic ecosystems, and are experiencing major disturbances under current climate change. As such, it is fundamental to understand the physiological mechanisms and associated molecular basis of their endurance during the long polar night.

Here, using the polar diatom Fragilariopsis cylindrus, we report an integrative analysis combining transcriptomic, microscopic and biochemical approaches to shed light on the strategies used to survive the polar night.

We reveal that in prolonged darkness, diatom cells enter a state of quiescence with reduced metabolic and transcriptional activity, during which no cell division occurs. We propose that minimal energy is provided by respiration and degradation of protein, carbohydrate and lipid stores and that homeostasis is maintained by autophagy in prolonged darkness. We also report internal structural changes that manifest the morphological acclimation of cells to darkness, including the appearance of a large vacuole.

Our results further show that immediately following a return to light, diatom cells are able to use photoprotective mechanisms and rapidly resume photosynthesis, demonstrating the remarkable robustness of polar diatoms to prolonged darkness at low temperature.
EGR1 and EGR2 positively regulate plant ABA signaling by modulating the phosphorylation of SnRK2.2
Authors: Li Chuanling , Li Xuetong , Deng Zhiping , Song Yuning , Liu Xinye , Tang Xiaohan Alex , Li Ziye , Zhang Ya , Zhang Baowen , Tang Wenqiang , Shang Jian‐Xiu , Sun Yu
Published: December 2023

During abscisic acid (ABA) signaling, reversible phosphorylation controls the activity and accumulation of class III SNF1‐RELATED PROTEIN KINASE 2s (SnRK2s). While protein phosphatases that negatively regulate SnRK2s have been identified, those that positively regulate ABA signaling through SnRK2s are less understood.

In this study, Arabidopsis thaliana mutants of Clade E Growth‐Regulating 1 and 2 (EGR1/2), which belong to the protein phosphatase 2C family, exhibited reduced ABA sensitivity in terms of seed germination, cotyledon greening, and ABI5 accumulation. Conversely, overexpression increased these ABA‐induced responses. Transcriptomic data revealed that most ABA‐regulated genes in egr1 egr2 plants were expressed at reduced levels compared with those in Col‐0 after ABA treatment.

Abscisic acid up‐regulated EGR1/2, which interact directly with SnRK2.2 through its C‐terminal domain I. Genetic analysis demonstrated that EGR1/2 function through SnRK2.2 during ABA response. Furthermore, SnRK2.2 de‐phosphorylation by EGR1/2 was identified at serine 31 within the ATP‐binding pocket. A phospho‐mimic mutation confirmed that phosphorylation at serine 31 inhibited SnRK2.2 activity and reduced ABA responsiveness in plants.

Our findings highlight the positive role of EGR1/2 in regulating ABA signaling, they reveal a new mechanism for modulating SnRK2.2 activity, and provide novel insight into how plants fine‐tune their responses to ABA.
Weight regain, body composition, and metabolic responses to weight loss in weight cycling athletes: A systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Bagot Sarah , Pélissier Léna , Pereira Bruno , Chanséaume Bussiere Emilie , Duclos Martine , Dulloo Abdul , Miles‐Chan Jennifer , Charlot Keyne , Boirie Yves , Thivel David , Isacco Laurie
Published: December 2023

Depending on the nature of their sports, athletes may be engaged in successive weight loss (WL) and regain, conducing to “weight cycling.” The aims of this paper were to systematically (and meta‐analytically when possible) analyze the post‐WL recovery of (i) body weight and (ii) fat mass; fat‐free mass; and performance and metabolic responses in weight cycling athletes (18–55 years old, body mass index < 30 kg.m−2). MEDLINE, Embase, and SPORTDiscus databases were explored. The quality and risk of bias of the 74 included studies were assessed using the quality assessment tool for quantitative studies. Thirty‐two studies were eligible for meta‐analyses. Whatever the type of sports or methods used to lose weight, post‐WL body weight does not seem affected compared with pre‐WL. While similar results are observed for fat‐free mass, strength sports athletes (also having longer WL and regain periods) do not seem to fully recover their initial fat mass (ES: −0.39, 95% CI: [−0.77; −0.00], p = 0.048, I2 = 0.0%). Although the methods used by athletes to achieve WL might prevent them from a potential post‐WL fat overshooting, further studies are needed to better understand WL episodes consequences on athletes' performance as well as short‐ and long‐term physical, metabolic, and mental health.
Comparison of Cervical Sagittal Parameters among Patients with Neck Pain and Patients with Cervical Spondylotic Radiculopathy and Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Liu Tao , Tian Shuo , Zhang Jianzhou , He Mengzi , Deng Longlian , Ding Wenyuan , Wang Zheng , Yang Dalong
Published: December 2023

Objective

Previous studies have shown that cervical sagittal alignment is strongly associated with cervical deformity, myelopathy, and cervical adjacent‐segmental disease, and these cervical sagittal parameters are correlated with health‐related quality of life. However, less attention has been paid to cervical sagittal balance in various cervical disorders. This study aimed to compare cervical sagittal parameters between patients with nonspecific neck pain (NS‐NP) and patients with cervical spondylotic radiculopathy (CSR) and cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Methods

We retrospectively examined 236 patients from between January 2020 and October 2022. We divided them into three groups (NS‐NP, CSR, and CSM) and collected general information and cervical sagittal parameters for these patients. The variation of parameters between the size of these parameters and gender differences was analyzed. Pearson's or Spearman's correlation was applied to analyze the association of cervical sagittal parameters of all patients between the three groups.

Results

There were significant differences in age and sex among the three groups (p < 0.001), with the NS‐NP group being the youngest and NS‐NP being more common in women. The parameters of cervical sagittal position significantly differed among the three groups (p < 0.05). Pearson's or Spearman's correlation result showed that the C2–C7 Cobb angle was negatively associated with the C2–C7 sagittal vertical angle (SVA), and the C2–C7 Cobb angle and T1 slope (T1s) were negatively associated with the spino‐cranial angle (SCA). There was a positive correlation between the C2–C7 Cobb angle and C7 slope (C7s), C2–C7 SVA and T1s, C2–C7 SVA and SCA, and C7s and T1s.

Conclusion

This study showed that between the three groups, patients with nonspecific neck pain had smaller SCA, and among patients with NS‐NP, women had more significant SCA. The smaller anteroposterior diameter of the thorax in women might explain this difference.
Incidence of emergence agitation in children undergoing sevoflurane anesthesia compared to isoflurane anesthesia: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Farag Rasha S. , Spicer Aaron C. , Iyer Geetha , Stevens Jennifer P. , King Andrew , Bain Paul A. , McAlvin J. Brian
Published: December 2023

Background

Emergence agitation is a complex syndrome of altered consciousness after emergence from anesthesia. It can result in injury to patients and staff and is associated with other postoperative complications. Sevoflurane has been associated with emergence agitation, potentially due to low tissue solubility and therefore speed of emergence. Prior meta‐analyses comparing emergence agitation incidence between sevoflurane and isoflurane anesthetics did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference. Given the publication of additional relevant studies not included in prior meta‐analyses as well as improved diagnosis of emergence agitation, we aim to perform an updated, comprehensive meta‐analysis comparing emergence agitation incidence between sevoflurane and isoflurane anesthetics in children.

Methods

We conducted an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials comparing sevoflurane to isoflurane in children <18 years of age, reporting emergence agitation as an outcome, published before July 2023 using databases and registers. Our primary outcome was the incidence of emergence agitation. Secondary outcomes were time to extubation, awakening time, and length of stay in the postanesthetic care unit. We assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2. We pooled the effect size for the outcomes using the fixed effects model if we had low heterogeneity, otherwise, we used a random‐effects model.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials (523 children) were included in the final analysis. The incidence of emergence agitation after isoflurane was significantly lower compared to sevoflurane (risk ratio: 0.62 (95% CI: [0.46–0.83]; I2 = 40.01%, p < .001)). Time to extubation, awakening times, and postanesthetic care unit duration were not significantly different. The protective effect of isoflurane compared to sevoflurane remained significant in subgroups of patients who received premedication or intraoperative systemic analgesics (risk ratios: (0.48 [0.28–0.82]; I2 = 60.78%, p = .01), (0.52 [0.37–0.75]; I2 = 0.00%, p < .001), respectively).

Conclusion

The risk of emergence agitation in children after maintenance anesthesia with sevoflurane is significantly greater than with isoflurane; we did not find evidence of prolonged emergence or postanesthetic length of stay. When possible, isoflurane should be considered for maintenance anesthesia over sevoflurane in patients at high risk of emergence agitation.
Mito‐nuclear discordance and phylogeography of the surf clam Mesodesma donacium along the Southeast Pacific coast
Authors: Liza Carmen R. , Stotz Wolfgang B. , Haye Pilar A.
Published: December 2023

Mesodesma donacium is a surf clam endemic to the southeast Pacific coast, and it is an important resource species of the sandy beach artisanal fishery in Peru and Chile. Over time, the species has shown high variability in population dynamics (presence and abundance), which has been attributed to overfishing and environmental events. In this study, we assess the phylogeography of seven natural beds of M. donacium (17 to 42° S), to reveal the geographic distribution of the genetic diversity through the analysis of 278 sequences of the mitochondrial gene COI. Sequences of the nuclear genes 18S and 28S were used to evaluate the divergence of COI haplogroups. Two divergent parapatric mitochondrial haplogroups were found, which lacked divergence at nuclear markers (18S and 28S); this mito‐nuclear discordance allows inferring that there is no reproductive isolation of mitochondrial haplogroups. The North haplogroup is the only one present at the northernmost site, while only the South haplogroup was present in Cucao in the south. Between 28° and 32° S, coincident with a coastal biogeographic break at 30° S, both haplogroups are in sympatry. Haplogroups differed in their genetic structure, with the North haplogroup representing a single, highly diverse population and the South haplogroup with genetic differentiation and more restricted genetic diversity and gene flow. The divergence in mitochondrial haplogroups without nuclear divergence suggests a past scenario of geographic isolation in the northern and southern areas, without developing reproductive isolation, followed by secondary contact. Given the phylogeography, genetic information should be considered in restocking and management activities.
An 8-Week Virtual Exercise Training Program for Pediatric Solid Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Grishin Nikol K. , De Souza Astrid M. , Fairbairn Julie , Sheel A. William , Puterman E. , Blydt-Hansen Tom , Potts James E. , Armstrong Kathryn R.
Published: December 2023

Purpose: Musculoskeletal strength can be impaired in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients. Exercise training programs can be beneficial but in-person delivery can be challenging; virtual exercise programs can alleviate some of these challenges. This feasibility study aimed to deliver an 8-week virtual exercise program in pediatric solid organ transplant recipients. Method: Program delivery occurred 3 times per week for 30 minutes. An exercise stress test was completed prior to program start. The Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency strength subtest and self-report surveys were used to assess musculoskeletal strength, quality of life, fatigue, and physical activity. Contact was maintained through a text messaging platform. Z scores were calculated using standardized normative data. Medians (interquartile range) are reported for all other data. Results: Eleven participants completed the program (2 liver, 5 kidney, 4 heart; 58% females; median age = 11.5 [10.3–13.8] y). Six participants attended ≥60% of classes, 5 participants attended <50% of classes. After 8 weeks, strength scores improved (Z score, Pre: −1.0 [−1.65 to −0.60] to Post: −0.2 [−1.30 to 0.40]; P = .007) with no change in other outcome measures. Conclusion: The virtual exercise program was delivered without technical issues and received positive participant feedback. Engagement and costs need to be considered.
Iodine oxoacids enhance nucleation of sulfuric acid particles in the atmosphere
Authors: He Xu-Cheng , Simon Mario , Iyer Siddharth , Xie Hong-Bin , Rörup Birte , Shen Jiali , Finkenzeller Henning , Stolzenburg Dominik , Zhang Rongjie , Baccarini Andrea , Tham Yee Jun , Wang Mingyi , Amanatidis Stavros , Piedehierro Ana A. , Amorim Antonio , Baalbaki Rima , Brasseur Zoé , Caudillo Lucía , Chu Biwu , Dada Lubna , Duplissy Jonathan , El Haddad Imad , Flagan Richard C. , Granzin Manuel , Hansel Armin , Heinritzi Martin , Hofbauer Victoria , Jokinen Tuija , Kemppainen Deniz , Kong Weimeng , Krechmer Jordan , Kürten Andreas , Lamkaddam Houssni , Lopez Brandon , Ma Fangfang , Mahfouz Naser G. A. , Makhmutov Vladimir , Manninen Hanna E. , Marie Guillaume , Marten Ruby , Massabò Dario , Mauldin Roy L. , Mentler Bernhard , Onnela Antti , Petäjä Tuukka , Pfeifer Joschka , Philippov Maxim , Ranjithkumar Ananth , Rissanen Matti P. , Schobesberger Siegfried , Scholz Wiebke , Schulze Benjamin , Surdu Mihnea , Thakur Roseline C. , Tomé António , Wagner Andrea C. , Wang Dongyu , Wang Yonghong , Weber Stefan K. , Welti André , Winkler Paul M. , Zauner-Wieczorek Marcel , Baltensperger Urs , Curtius Joachim , Kurtén Theo , Worsnop Douglas R. , Volkamer Rainer , Lehtipalo Katrianne , Kirkby Jasper , Donahue Neil M. , Sipilä Mikko , Kulmala Markku
Published: December 2023

The main nucleating vapor in the atmosphere is thought to be sulfuric acid (H
2
SO
4
), stabilized by ammonia (NH
3
). However, in marine and polar regions, NH
3
is generally low, and H
2
SO
4
is frequently found together with iodine oxoacids [HIO

x

, i.e., iodic acid (HIO
3
) and iodous acid (HIO
2
)]. In experiments performed with the CERN CLOUD (Cosmics Leaving OUtdoor Droplets) chamber, we investigated the interplay of H
2
SO
4
and HIO

x

during atmospheric particle nucleation. We found that HIO

x

greatly enhances H
2
SO
4
(-NH
3
) nucleation through two different interactions. First, HIO
3
strongly binds with H
2
SO
4
in charged clusters so they drive particle nucleation synergistically. Second, HIO
2
substitutes for NH
3
, forming strongly bound H
2
SO
4
-HIO
2
acid-base pairs in molecular clusters. Global observations imply that HIO

x

is enhancing H
2
SO
4
(-NH
3
) nucleation rates 10- to 10,000-fold in marine and polar regions.
Immunotherapies for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Golde Todd E. , Levey Allan I.
Published: December 2023

Antibodies targeting amyloid-β aggregates slow decline in Alzheimer’s disease
Light-gated channelrhodopsin sparks proton-induced calcium release in guard cells
Authors: Huang Shouguang , Shen Like , Roelfsema M. Rob G. , Becker Dirk , Hedrich Rainer
Published: December 2023

Although there has been long-standing recognition that stimuli-induced cytosolic pH alterations coincide with changes in calcium ion (Ca
2+
) levels, the interdependence between protons (H
+
) and Ca
2+
remains poorly understood. We addressed this topic using the light-gated channelrhodopsin
Hc
KCR2 from the pseudofungus
Hyphochytrium catenoides
, which operates as a H
+
conductive, Ca
2+
impermeable ion channel on the plasma membrane of plant cells. Light activation of
Hc
KCR2 in
Arabidopsis
guard cells evokes a transient cytoplasmic acidification that sparks Ca
2+
release from the endoplasmic reticulum. A H
+
-induced cytosolic Ca
2+
signal results in membrane depolarization through the activation of Ca
2+
-dependent SLAC1/SLAH3 anion channels, which enabled us to remotely control stomatal movement. Our study suggests a H
+
-induced Ca
2+
release mechanism in plant cells and establishes
Hc
KCR2 as a tool to dissect the molecular basis of plant intracellular pH and Ca
2+
signaling.