bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A unified framework for time‐to‐detection occupancy and abundance models
Authors: Priyadarshani Dinusha , Huynh Huu‐Dinh , Altwegg Res , Hwang Wen‐Han
Published: February 2024

Time‐to‐detection (TTD) occupancy models are increasingly used to study site occupancy of organisms. Occupancy is a reduced representation of abundance (distinguishing only between and individuals), which is also often a quantity of interest. In this paper, we present a novel framework for TTD occupancy models that address limitations of existing approaches. Our approach incorporates factors that accommodate detection heterogeneity among sites/visits and inter‐visit dependency, allowing for the relaxation of some restrictive assumptions inherent in previous models. As a result, our framework offers a robust and versatile tool for analysing various ecological data sets.

We employ a maximum likelihood approach to estimate model parameters and conduct inference for the proposed TTD occupancy models. A key feature of these models is the introduction of a community parameter. This parameter characterizes the similarity of detectabilities, ranging from complete independence to complete identity, across multiple site visits. This framework disentangles the detection rate, abundance and occupancy, similar to the popular N‐mixture model. For situations where abundance estimation is not the primary goal, a family of mixed gamma exponential TTD models is developed, which generally exhibit more stable numerical properties compared to N‐mixture type TTD models.

The performance of the proposed models and some reduced models is evaluated through simulation studies. The results indicate that the N‐mixture TTD model tends to considerably overestimate the occupancy probability when the community parameter is less than one, a condition necessary to satisfy the strict closure population assumption. On the other hand, the standard exponential TTD occupancy model underestimates the occupancy probability in the presence of unobserved detection heterogeneity and inter‐visit dependency. An analysis of bird species in the Karoo region of South Africa demonstrates the enhanced flexibility of the proposed TTD occupancy models for data fitting.

This paper demonstrates the importance of employing more flexible and general models to accurately capture the complexities of ecological systems or survey data. We provide R‐code to fit all considered models to data. The proposed TTD model framework contributes to enhancing our understanding of species occupancy distributions.
The natural history of lifetime psychiatric disorders in patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder followed over half a century
Authors: Klenfeldt Isak Fredén , Skoog Gunnar , Skoog Johan , Skoog Ingmar
Published: February 2024

Objective

Few long‐term studies have examined the life‐time prevalence of comorbid psychiatric conditions in patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). We therefore studied the frequency of comorbid psychiatric disorders, and their relation to onset and prognosis, in patients with OCD who were followed for almost half a century.

Methods

During 1947–1953, 285 OCD patients were admitted as inpatients to a university hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden. Among those, 251 (88%) accepted a structured comprehensive psychiatric examination in 1954–1956. In 1989–1993, 176 survivors were eligible and 144 (response rate 82%) were re‐examined. The same psychiatrist performed both examinations. OCD was diagnosed according to the Schneider criteria, and other mental disorders according to DSM‐IV. Mean follow‐up since onset was 47 years.

Results

The lifetime frequency of depressive disorders was 84.7% (major depression 43.8%), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) 71.5%, panic anxiety disorder 47.9%, agoraphobia 52.1%, specific phobias 64.6%, social phobia 47.9%, paranoid conditions 40.3% (29.1% paranoid ideation), psychotic disorders 15.3%, alcohol abuse 13.2% (men 39%, women 3%) and substance abuse 17.4%. Specific phobia most often started before OCD, while depression had a varied onset in relation to OCD. Social phobia, agoraphobia, GAD, alcohol and substance abuse, psychotic disorders and paranoid conditions most often started after OCD. Presence of GAD, psychotic disorder and substance abuse worsened prognosis of OCD.

Conclusion

Comorbid psychiatric conditions are common in OCD patients, and have onset throughout the course. OCD signals vulnerability for other psychiatric conditions, which are important to detect in clinical practice as they negatively affect the outcome.
Intra‐specific variation and climate differentially shape the thermal germination niches of three co‐occurring woodland forbs
Authors: Price Meridy , Harrison Peter A. , Jordan Rebecca , Steane Dorothy , Vaillancourt René E. , Prober Suzanne M.
Published: February 2024

Understanding plant responses to temperature is critical for predicting their vulnerability to global warming and for planning management responses. Germination is a key life‐stage, strongly regulated by temperature, that affects the potential for plant populations to persist. Here, we compared the thermal germination niches of three unrelated, declining woodland forb species – Arthropodium fimbriatum (Asparagaceae), Bulbine bulbosa (Asphodelaceae), Microseris walteri (Asteraceae) – across common temperature and precipitation gradients, to characterize the relationships with home‐site climate, and associated implications for ecological restoration in a changing climate. Open‐pollinated seed were sampled from 14–15 populations per species across an aridity gradient in south‐eastern Australia. Germination responses for each population were tested in controlled temperature cabinets under five temperature regimes encompassing contemporary and projected future temperatures. Optimum germination temperature and thermal germination niche were characterized and assessed for associations with home‐site climate and potential germination under projected climate change. The three species showed significant intra‐specific variation in the thermal germination niche. Optimum germination temperature was correlated with home‐site climate, suggesting adaptive variation among populations in germination requirements. However, the pattern of variation in optimum germination across the environmental gradients was not always consistent among the species. Future temperatures projected under climate change tended to be outside the current thermal germination niche for all species, indicating potential benefits of incorporating pre‐adapted populations in ecological restoration. Climate‐related intra‐specific variation in the thermal germination niche provides evidence for local adaptation to climate in all three forb species and suggests potential differences among populations in vulnerability to global warming. These results emphasize the importance of understanding the extent of intra‐specific variation in key life history traits to better manage and conserve populations and restore their ecosystems as climates change.
Prevalence and patterns of comorbidities in older people with type 2 diabetes in Australian primary care settings
Authors: Wong Wei Jin , Nguyen Tu , Fortin Martin , Harrison Christopher
Published: February 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence and patterns of comorbidity in community‐dwelling older people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) attending general practice settings in Australia.

Methods

This study involved a cross‐sectional analysis using the Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health (BEACH) sub‐study data. In a series of sub‐studies, a representative sample of general practitioners was asked to record all diagnosed chronic conditions for patients at 40 consecutive encounters using structured paper‐based recording forms. The dataset was analysed with descriptive analyses, and exploratory factor analyses were applied to examine comorbidity patterns.

Results

Of the 14,042 patients aged 65 years or older, 2688 had a diagnosis of T2DM (19%). Of the 2688 patients with T2DM, hypertension was present in 67% (95% CI: 64.6–70.0), followed by arthritis 52% (95% CI: 48.8–54.8), hyperlipidaemia 45% (95% CI: 41.8–47.9), ischemic heart disease, 23% (95% CI: 20.7–24.9), depression 16% (95% CI: 48.8–54.8), atrial fibrillation 10% (95% CI: 8.9–11.6), congestive heart failure 7% (95% CI: 6.0–8.1), stroke/cerebrovascular accident 7% (95% CI: 5.4–8.2) and peripheral vascular disease 5% (95% CI: 4.4–6.2). We identified two comorbidity patterns among older people with T2DM. The first were psychological and musculoskeletal conditions and the second were cardiovascular conditions and chronic renal failure.

Conclusions

The prevalence of cardiovascular and non‐cardiovascular comorbidities in community‐dwelling older people with T2DM was high. Adequate primary care strategies should be in place to support the long‐term care for this population.
Do good relationships contribute to innovative behaviour? A study of relationship conflict affecting team innovative behaviour
Authors: Chang Po‐Chien , Xu Xun , Gao Xiaoxiao , Lee Amber Yun‐Ping
Published: February 2024

This study examines the relationship between relationship conflict and cross‐functional team innovative behaviour with transactive memory system (TMS) as a mediator and team‐oriented leadership as a moderator. Adopting a two‐wave data collection procedure, 584 team members and 113 team leaders from 20 organizations participated in this study. The PROCESS macro for SPSS was used to test the hypothesized relationships. The results indicate that the TMS mediates the relationship between relationship conflict and cross‐functional team innovative behaviour. Moreover, team‐oriented leadership moderates the relationship between relationship conflict and cross‐functional team innovative behaviour as well as between relationship conflict and the transactive memory system. Additionally, it moderates the indirect effect of relationship conflict and cross‐functional team innovative behaviour via the TMS. In particular, all three relationships become weaker when team‐oriented leadership is high. Based on social information processing theory, this study makes an additional contribution to the current conflict management literature by providing empirical evidence on the mediating role of the TMS and the moderating role of team‐oriented leadership in how relationship conflict affects cross‐functional team innovative behaviour.
Identification of allergens from Aspergillus fumigatus—Potential association with lung damage in asthma
Authors: Rick Eva‐Maria , Woolnough Kerry , Richardson Matthew , Monteiro William , Craner Michelle , Bourne Michelle , Cousins David John , Swoboda Ines , Wardlaw Andrew John , Pashley Catherine Helen
Published: February 2024

Background

Component‐resolved diagnosis allows detection of IgE sensitization having the advantage of reproducibility and standardization compared to crude extracts. The main disadvantage of the traditional allergen identification methods, 1‐ or 2‐dimensional western blotting and screening of expression cDNA libraries with patients' IgEs, is that the native structure of the protein is not necessarily maintained.

Methods

We used a novel immunoprecipitation technique in combination with mass spectrometry to identify new allergens of Aspergillus fumigatus. Magnetic Dynabeads coupled with anti‐human IgE antibodies were used to purify human serum IgE and subsequently allergens from A. fumigatus protein extract.

Results

Of the 184 proteins detected by subsequent mass peptide fingerprinting, a subset of 13 were recombinantly expressed and purified. In a panel of 52 A. fumigatus‐sensitized people with asthma, 23 non‐fungal‐sensitized asthmatics and 18 healthy individuals, only the former showed an IgE reaction by immunoblotting and/or ELISA. We discovered 11 proteins not yet described as A. fumigatus allergens, with fructose‐bisphosphate aldolase class II (FBA2) (33%), NAD‐dependent malate dehydrogenase (31%) and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (27%) being the most prevalent. With respect to these three allergens, native versus denatured protein assays indicated a better recognition of the native proteins. Seven of 11 allergens fulfilled the WHO/IUIS criteria and were accepted as new A. fumigatus allergens.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we introduce a straightforward method of allergen identification from complex allergenic sources such as A. fumigatus by immunoprecipitation combined with mass spectrometry, which has the advantage over traditional methods of identifying allergens by maintaining the structure of the proteins.
Comparison of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging with postoperative pathology results in rectal cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy
Authors: Akgül Özgür , Martlı Hüseyin Fahri , Göktaş Abidin , Pak Mehmet Ali , Tez Mesut
Published: February 2024

Background

Locally advanced rectal cancer often requires neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) before surgical intervention. This study aimed to assess the concordance between preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and postoperative pathology results after NAT in rectal cancer patients.

Method

A retrospective analysis of 52 patients who underwent NAT and subsequent surgery at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital between May 2019 and May 2023 was conducted. Demographics, preoperative MRIs, time intervals between NAT, MRI, and surgery, and postoperative pathology were assessed.

Results

The median age of the cohort was 59 years, with a male predominance (76.9%). Tumour T stage (κ = 0.157), lymph node stage (κ = 0.138), and circumferential resection margin (κ = 0.138) concordance showed poor agreement between post‐neoadjuvant treatment (PNT) MRI and pathology. PNT MRI demonstrated a limited correlation with postoperative pathology.

Conclusions

While preoperative MRI is commonly used for restaging after NAT in rectal cancer, our study highlights its limited concordance with postoperative pathology. The sensitivity and specificity metrics, although reported in the literature, should be interpreted alongside concordance assessments for a comprehensive evaluation.
Retinal oximetry and microvascular assessment after hypertensive pregnancy complications
Authors: Hoel Sissel , Moe Kjartan , Sugulle Meryam , Petrovski Goran , Veiby Nina Charlotte B. B. , Staff Anne Cathrine
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are at increased risk of developing premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). The mechanisms behind this are not fully understood, but microvascular alterations have been documented in retinal arterioles and venules. The aim of this study was to use non‐invasive retinal imaging to investigate the structural and functional properties of arterioles, venules and capillaries in this patient group.

Methods

We examined 27 women with previous HDP and 23 controls at 3 years postpartum. The retinal microvasculature was assessed by vessel calibre measurements, retinal oximetry and optical coherence tomography angiography. Differences were analysed using non‐parametric tests and multiple regression analyses, adjusted for age and body mass index.

Results

Median arteriolar oxygen saturation (SaO2; 94.2% vs. 93.0%), venular oxygen saturation (SvO2; 60.1% vs. 62.4%) and arteriovenous saturation difference (AV‐difference; 32.8% vs. 32.3%) were similar across groups. Capillary vessel density (VD; 46.2% vs. 46.3%), skeletonised VD (VSD; 21.3 vs. 21.1 mm/mm2) and vessel diameter index (21.65 vs. 21.86) were also comparable. In the HDP group, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was positively correlated with AV‐difference (R2 = 0.209) and negatively correlated with arteriolar diameter (CRAE; r2 = 0.382).

Conclusions

Structural microvascular alterations appear not to be key biomarkers for CVD risk after HDP as early as 3 years postpartum in otherwise healthy women. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether such changes occur later in life. MAP was associated with AV‐difference only in the HDP group, suggesting specific mechanisms affecting functional microvascular properties in these women.
Inflammatory mediators in bacterial vaginosis: The role of cytokines
Authors: Zhang Yuexin , He Zhi
Published: February 2024

BV is a significant concern in women's health with a varying prevalence rate in different cities of China. The condition has been linked to the acquisition of STIs, including HIV and HPV, and can lead to infertility, adverse obstetric outcomes. We conducted a comprehensive literature search in the PubMed. The search was performed from 01/01/2018 to 01/09/2023. The following search terms were used: bacterial vaginosis and cytokine. We also manually searched the reference lists of included studies and relevant reviews to identify additional articles. The presence of Gardnerella spp. can lead to changes in cytokine levels. The immune system of the female reproductive tract consists of various immune cells and molecules that play a vital role in defending against infections. Cytokines, signaling molecules involved in immune cell recruitment and activation, have been identified as potential biomarkers for diagnosing BV and predicting STIs. Current treatments for BV primarily involve antibiotics, but there is a high recurrence rate posttreatment. BV is a complex condition that affects a significant number of women worldwide. The role of cytokines in the onset, progression, and treatment of BV offers promising avenues for future research and potential diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.
The effect of humate as a feed additive on feed intake, production, and carcass parameters of Angus steers
Authors: Ataollahi F , Holman BWB , Casburn GR , Piltz JW
Published: February 2024

Humate may be a valuable livestock feed additive, with potential effects on nutrient utilisation and animal performance. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of K Humate S 100R supplementation on the feed intake, liveweight gain, and carcass parameters of Angus steers. Within individual pens, 40 weaned steers were allocated to four treatment groups (n = 10/potassium humate K Humate S100R, Omnia Specialities Australia) for 100 days. The treatment groups included Group 1, 35 g K Humate S100R/animal/day; Group 2, 70 g K Humate S100R/animal/day; Group 3, 140 g K Humate S100R/animal/day; and Control Group, which were not supplemented with K Humate S100R (0 g K Humate S100R/animal/day). Chemical and mineral composition of the feed ingredients, dry matter intake (DMI), and average daily weight gains were recorded. The steers were slaughtered as a single group at a commercial Australian abattoir. Standard measures for hot standard carcass weight, eye muscle area, fat depth and coverage, marbling, ossification, meat and fat colour, dressing percentage and loin pH values at 24‐hour postmortem were recorded. It was found that the steers allocated to Group 2 had higher DMI (P = 0.003) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) (P < 0.001) compared with those allocated to Group 1 and the Control Group. The MSA marbling score was lowest for steers allocated to the Control Group (P < 0.05) and comparable for those allocated to Groups 1, 2, and 3. Together, these results demonstrate that increased levels of K Humate S100R supplementation improved the carcass quality, via an increase in MSA. However, further research is warranted on the potential effects of humates supplementation on intramuscular fat associated qualities of beef.
Hydromorphone hydrochloride preconditioning combined with postconditioning attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats by improving mitochondrial function and activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Qiu Liuji , Yan Yan , Zhong Guocheng , Hou Zhiqi , Ye Yongcai , Lin Jiaying , Luo Dexing
Published: February 2024

Thrombolytic therapy or percutaneous coronary intervention for myocardial infarction often cause myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI) and poor prognosis of patients. This study aimed to explore the protective effect and potential mechanism of hydromorphone hydrochloride (HH) on MIRI. Fifty Sprague–Dawley male rats were randomly divided into Sham group, I/R group, HH‐pre group, HH‐post group, and HH‐pre + post group. Except Sham group, MIRI models were established by ligating and relaxing the left anterior descending coronary artery, followed by tail vein injection of HH (0.3 μmol/L) 10 min before ligation (HH‐pre group), 10 min after reperfusion (HH‐post group), and twice at the above two time points (HH‐pre + post group). After intervention, the cardiac function of rats was evaluated by echocardiography, and the levels of myocardial injury markers, oxidative stress indicators, and mitochondrial function indicators were detected. Next, the myocardial infarction area was evaluated by 2,3,5‐triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining, mitochondrial biogenesis, and phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway by western blot. Compared with the I/R group, HH intervention improved cardiac function, decreased myocardial infarction area, reduced serum myocardial injury markers, alleviated oxidative stress, improved mitochondrial function, up‐regulated mitochondrial biogenesis, and activated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Moreover, the HH‐pre + post group was superior to the HH‐pre and HH‐post groups in the above aspects. Collectively, HH had protective effect on MIRI rats, and HH preconditioning combined with postconditioning showed optimal efficacy. Such efficacy may be achieved by promoting mitochondrial biogenesis to improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress, and activating the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Ophthalmic sequelae of prematurity in late childhood and adulthood: A review
Authors: Downes Rachel A. , Rachitskaya Aleksandra V.
Published: February 2024

Advances in the care of premature infants have resulted in unprecedented rates of survival of these infants into adulthood, including those born at very low gestational ages. Ophthalmologists have historically followed premature infants to assess for the presence of and potential need for treatment of retinopathy of prematurity. However, a growing body of literature suggests that the ophthalmic consequences of prematurity extended beyond retinopathy of prematurity and that ophthalmic sequelae of prematurity can endure through adulthood even among formerly preterm adults who were never diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity. These abnormalities can include a range of both anterior segment and posterior segment sequelae, including higher rates of corneal aberrations, ocular hypertension, strabismus, foveal anomalies, and retinal tears and detachments. This review aims to summarise this literature, underscoring the importance of lifelong examinations and regular monitoring for these complications among adults who were born prematurely.
Assessing the impact of psychiatric genetic counseling on psychiatric hospitalizations
Authors: Morris Emily , McGrail Kimberlyn , Cressman Sonya , Stewart S. Evelyn , Austin Jehannine
Published: February 2024

Psychiatric genetic counseling (pGC) can improve patient empowerment and self‐efficacy. We explored the relationship between pGC and psychiatric hospitalizations, for which no prior data exist. Using Population Data BC (a provincial dataset), we tested two hypotheses: (1) among patients (>18 years) with psychiatric conditions who received pGC between May 2010 and Dec 2016 (N = 387), compared with the year pre‐pGC, in the year post‐pGC there would be fewer (a) individuals hospitalized and (b) total hospital admissions; and (2) using a matched cohort design, compared with controls (N = 363, matched 1:4 for sex, diagnosis, time since diagnosis, region, and age, and assigned a pseudo pGC index date), the pGC cohort (N = 91) would have (a) more individuals whose number of hospitalizations decreased and (b) fewer hospitalizations post‐pGC/pseudo‐index. We also explored total days in hospital. Within the pGC cohort, there were fewer hospitalizations post‐pGC than pre‐ pGC (p = 0.011, OR = 1.69), and total days in hospital decreased (1085 to 669). However, when compared to matched controls, the post‐pGC/pseudo index change in hospitalizations among pGC cases was not statistically significant, even after controlling for the higher number of hospitalizations prior. pGC may lead to fewer psychiatric hospitalizations and cost savings; further studies exploring this are warranted.
Efficacy of the iron‐chelating agent, deferiprone, in patients with Parkinson's disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Negida Ahmed , Hassan Nafisa M. , Aboeldahab Heba , Zain Youmna E. , Negida Yasmin , Cadri Shirin , Cadri Nivin , Cloud Leslie J. , Barrett Matthew J. , Berman Brian
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Several studies have reported iron accumulation in the basal ganglia to be associated with the development of Parkinson's Disease (PD). Recently, a few trials have examined the efficacy of using the iron‐chelating agent Deferiprone (DFP) for patients with PD. We conducted this meta‐analysis to summarize and synthesize evidence from published randomized controlled trials about the efficacy of DFP for PD patients.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of four electronic databases was performed, spanning until February 2023. Relevant RCTs were selected, and their data were extracted and analyzed using the RevMan software. The primary outcome was the change in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS‐III).

Results

Three RCTs with 431 patients were included in this analysis. DFP did not significantly improve UPDRS‐III score compared to placebo (Standardized mean difference −0.06, 95% CI [−0.69, 0.58], low certainty evidence). However, it significantly reduced iron accumulation in the substantia nigra, putamen, and caudate as measured by T2*‐weighted MRI (with high certainty evidence).

Conclusion

Current evidence does not support the use of DFP in PD patients. Future disease‐modification trials with better population selection, adjustment for concomitant medications, and long‐term follow up are recommended.
SF‐CORNER (splenic flexure colorectal cancer): an international survey of operative approaches and outcomes for cancers of the splenic flexure
Authors: Sekhar H. , Dyer M. , Khan M. , Mitchell P. J. , West N. P. , Moug S. , Vimalachandran D. ,   the SF‐CORNER collaborative study group
Published: February 2024

Aim

The optimum surgical approach to splenic flexure cancers (SFCs) remains uncertain. The aim of this survey was to explore the opinions of an international surgical community on the management and outcomes of SFC.

Method

A questionnaire was constructed comprising five sections (information about respondents; definition and prognosis of SFC; operative approach; approach in specific scenarios; outcomes) and circulated through an international dissemination committee and social media.

Results

The survey received 576 responses over 4 weeks across 50 countries. There was no consensus regarding the definition of the splenic flexure, whilst the proportion of respondents who did and did not think that patients with SFC had a worse outcome was equal. The overall preferred operative approach was left hemicolectomy [203 (35.2%)], followed by segmental resection [167 (29%)], extended right hemicolectomy [126 (21.9%)] and subtotal colectomy [7 (12%)]. The stated pedicles for ligation varied between resection types and also within the same resection. One hundred and sixty‐six (28.8%) respondents thought a segmental resection was associated with the worst survival and 190 (33%) thought it was associated with the best quality of life.

Conclusion

This survey confirms a lack of consensus across all aspects SFC treatment. The differing approaches described are likely to represent different beliefs around the variable anatomy of this region and the associated lymphatic drainage. Future studies are required to address such inconsistencies and identify the optimum surgical strategy, whilst also incorporating quality‐of‐life metrics and patient‐reported outcomes. A one‐size‐fits‐all approach is probably not appropriate with SFC, and a more bespoke approach is required.
Utilizing venous occlusion plethysmography to assess vascular effects: A study with buloxibutid, an angiotensin II type 2 receptor agonist
Authors: Rein‐Hedin Erik , Sjöberg Folke , Ganslandt Cecilia , Skoog Johan , Zachrisson Helene , Bengtsson Thomas , Dalsgaard Carl‐Johan
Published: February 2024

Buloxibutid (also known as C21) is a potent and selective angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) agonist, in development for oral treatment of fibrotic lung disease. This phase I, open‐label, pharmacodynamic study investigated vascular effects of buloxibutid in five healthy male volunteers. Subjects were administered intra‐arterial infusions of buloxibutid for 5 min in ascending doses of 3, 10, 30, 100, and 200 μg/min, infused sequentially in the forearm. Infusions of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) solution in doses of 0.8–3.2 μg/min were administered as a positive control. Forearm blood flow (FBF) was measured by venous occlusion plethysmography. Safety and tolerability of intra‐arterial administrations of buloxibutid were evaluated. Following infusion of buloxibutid in doses of 3–200 μg/min, the range of increase in FBF was 27.8%, 17.2%, 37.0%, 28.5%, and 60.5%, compared to the respective baseline. The largest increase was observed in the highest dose group. Infusions of SNP as a positive control, increased FBF 230–320% compared to baseline. Three adverse events (AEs) of mild intensity, not related to buloxibutid or SNP, were reported for two subjects. Two of these AEs were related to study procedures. There were no clinically relevant changes in arterial blood pressure during the study period. Intra‐arterial infusion of buloxibutid in low, ascending doses increased FBF, indicating that buloxibutid may be effective in conditions associated with endothelial dysfunction. Venous occlusion plethysmography was found to be a useful method to explore pharmacodynamic vascular effects of novel AT2R agonists, while avoiding systemic adverse effects.
Differences in stigma reduction related to injection drug use between people expressing conservative, moderate and progressive values following an online intervention
Authors: Caruana Theresa , Brener Loren , Calabrese Sarah K. , Cama Elena , Treloar Carla , Broady Timothy
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Contact interventions have shown short‐term effectiveness in reducing stigmatising attitudes and behaviours of the public towards marginalised population groups, including people who inject drugs. We theorised that the effectiveness of an intervention differs according to peoples' underlying social values and undertook a study to test this.

Methods

We recruited participants from the Australian public by social media and measured their attitudes, desire to maintain personal distance, and support for structural stigma towards people who inject drugs before and after a brief online video intervention (n = 314). We divided participants into tertile groups according to their responses to a conservatism scale and compared group differences in post‐intervention stigma scores (n = 242–244), controlling for pre‐intervention scores and demographic variables.

Results

Adjusting for baseline levels, the post‐intervention scores in all measures showed significant improvement but scores of the moderate group were consistently most improved. Stigmatising attitudes in the moderate group were significantly reduced when compared with the conservative and progressive groups. However, reductions in desire for personal distance and support for structural stigma did not significantly differ by conservatism group.

Discussion and Conclusions

A brief online contact intervention showed immediate effectiveness in reducing stigma towards people who inject drugs. As people with moderate values were found to be more amenable to changing their perspectives, audience social values may need consideration when designing and evaluating stigma interventions. More research is needed to understand how to influence people with more conservative values, and how to increase public support for policies and practices that reduce stigma.
Photosensitizing antihypertensive medication and risk of skin cancer among postmenopausal women
Authors: Hou Alexander , Li Yueyao , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Han Jiali , Eaton Charles B. , Qureshi Abrar , Cho Eunyoung
Published: February 2024

Background

Few prospective studies exist with an evaluation of a dose‐response relationship between use of some photosensitizing antihypertensive medications and skin cancer.

Patient and Methods

We used prospective data from the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study to investigate the association between antihypertensive use and risk of non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and melanoma in postmenopausal women aged 50–79 years at baseline (n  =  64,918). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used and hazard ratios (HRs) and 95 confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results

8,777 NMSC and 1,227 melanoma cases were observed. Use of antihypertensives (HR [95% CI]: 1.12 [1.07–1.18]), ACE inhibitors (1.09 [1.01–1.18]), calcium channel blockers (1.13 [1.05–1.22]), diuretics (1.20 [1.12–1.27]), loop diuretics (1.17 [1.07–1.28]), and thiazides (1.17 [1.03–1.33]) were each associated with higher NMSC risk. NMSC risk linearly increased with use of multiple antihypertensives (p‐trend  =  0.02) and with longer duration of use (p‐trend < 0.01). Antihypertensives (1.15 [1.00–1.31]), angiotensin‐II receptor blockers (1.82 [1.05–3.15]), and diuretics (1.34 [1.13–1.59]) were each associated with elevated melanoma risk. Effect modification by solar radiation exposure was found between antihypertensive use and incidence of melanoma (p‐interaction  =  0.02).

Conclusions

Use of antihypertensives overall, and several individual classes thereof, were associated with higher incidence of NMSC and melanoma with dose‐response relationship.
FGF‐stimulated tendon cells embrace a chondrogenic fate with BMP7 in newt tissue culture
Authors: Sugiura Nao , Agata Kiyokazu
Published: February 2024

Newts can regenerate functional elbow joints after amputation at the joint level. Previous studies have suggested the potential contribution of cells from residual tendon tissues to joint cartilage regeneration. A serum‐free tissue culture system for tendons was established to explore cell dynamics during joint regeneration. Culturing isolated tendons in this system, stimulated by regeneration‐related factors, such as fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and platelet‐derived growth factor, led to robust cell migration and proliferation. Moreover, cells proliferating in an FGF‐rich environment differentiated into Sox9‐positive chondrocytes upon BMP7 introduction. These findings suggest that FGF‐stimulated cells from tendons may aid in joint cartilage regeneration during functional elbow joint regeneration in newts.
An assistive listening device improves hearing following aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Gaastra Ben , Whyte Stuart , Hankin Bethan , Bulters Diederik , Galea Ian , Campbell Nicole
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose

Hearing impairment is common following aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH). Previous studies have demonstrated that auditory processing disorder (APD) is the primary underlying pathology. Assistive listening devices (ALDs) can be used to manage APD but have not been explored in aSAH. The aim of this study was to assess the benefit of an ALD for patients reporting hearing difficulty after aSAH.

Methods

This was a prospective pilot single‐arm intervention study of an ALD for APD following aSAH. Patients who reported subjective hearing difficulty following aSAH were identified from the Wessex Neurological Centre aSAH database. Speech‐in‐noise was evaluated using the Bamford−Kowal−Bench (BKB) test under 60 and 65 dB noise conditions. BKB performance was compared with and without an ALD. Cognition was assessed using the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination‐III.

Results

Fourteen aSAH patients with self‐reported hearing loss were included in the analysis. Under both noise conditions the ALD significantly improved BKB performance (60 dB, Z = −3.30, p < 0.001; 65 dB, Z = −3.33, p < 0.001). There was no relationship between cognition and response to the ALD.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the marked benefit of ALDs to manage APD following aSAH, regardless of cognitive status. This finding has implications for the management of this common yet disabling deficit which impacts quality of life and employment. A further trial of ALDs in this patient group is needed to test whether these large, short‐term benefits can be practically translated to the community for long‐term benefit when used at home.
Ocular motor and vestibular dysfunction in central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Lee Suk‐Min , Choi Seo Young , Choi Jae‐Hwan , Oh Eun Hye , Yoo Dallah , Lee Sun‐Uk , Kim Hyo Jung , Choi Jeong‐Yoon , Kim Ji‐Soo , Choi Kwang‐Dong
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose

Diagnosis of lymphoma involving the central nervous system (CNS) is challenging. This study aimed to explore the abnormal vestibular and ocular motor findings in CNS lymphoma.

Methods

A retrospective search of the medical records identified 30 patients with CNS lymphoma presenting ocular motor and vestibular abnormalities from four neurology clinics of university hospitals in South Korea (22 men, age range 14–81 years, mean 60.6 ± 15.2). The demographic and clinical features and the results of laboratory, radiological and pathological evaluation were analyzed.

Results

Patients presented with diplopia (13/30, 43%), vestibular symptoms (15/30, 50%) or both (2/30, 7%). In 15 patients with diplopia, abnormal ocular motor findings included ocular motor nerve palsy (n = 10, 67%), internuclear ophthalmoplegia (n = 2, 13%), external ophthalmoplegia (n = 2, 13%) and exophoria (n = 1, 7%). The vestibular abnormalities were isolated in 14 (82%) of 17 patients with vestibular symptoms and included combined unilateral peripheral and central vestibulopathy in three from lesions involving the vestibular nuclei. CNS lymphoma involved the brainstem (53%), cerebellum (33%), leptomeninges (30%), deep gray nuclei (23%) or cranial nerves (17%). Two patients showed the “double‐panda” sign by involving the midbrain.

Conclusions

This study expands the clinical and radiological spectra of CNS lymphoma. Neuro‐ophthalmological and neuro‐otological evaluation may guide the early diagnosis of CNS lymphoma.
Masticatory function and mortality among older adults living in long‐term care facilities in Brazil
Authors: Medeiros Mariana Marinho Davino de , Gama Lorena Tavares , Ferreira Danilo Augusto de Holanda , Cavalcanti Yuri Wanderley , Brondani Mario Augusto , Rodrigues Garcia Renata Cunha Matheus
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between mortality and masticatory function in older adults living in long‐term care facilities (LTCFs), controlling for demographic and health covariates.

Background

Poor oral health has been associated with mortality; however, no previous study investigated whether objective and self‐reported poor masticatory function is a predictor of early mortality in LTCFs.

Materials and Methods

Baseline characteristics of 295 participants were collected, including age, sex, polypharmacy, mobility, activities of daily living, frailty, nutritional status, and objective (masticatory performance – chewing gum) and self‐reported masticatory function. The participants were followed‐up with for 4 years to record the mortality data. Cox regression models were run to analyse the data (α = .05).

Results

During the 4‐year follow‐up, 124 (42.0%) participants died. Older adults with poor masticatory performance (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.59, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.07–2.36) and those who self‐reported masticatory dysfunction (HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.01–2.16) were at higher risk of early death than those with good mastication. However, in a multivariate model including both objective and self‐reported masticatory function, only the objective measurement remained associated with early death (HR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.02–2.27).

Conclusion

Poor masticatory performance seems to be associated with early death in older adults living in LTCFs, but they may have shared risk factors accumulated throughout life that were not covered by the study period.
Is subjective age a multidimensional construct in a Japanese sample aged 20–89?
Authors: Kinjo Hikari , Kawahashi Ikko , Shibuya Megumi
Published: February 2024

Aim

Subjective age is an emerging concept in the aging literature that predicts various aspects of quality of life, but its nature is not fully understood. This study aimed to explore whether subjective age is a unidimensional or a multidimensional construct and its relationship with quality of life through a multi‐aspects approach.

Methods

We examined subjective age for 2896 Japanese adults aged 20–89 by using five subjective age measures and questions with regard to their quality of life and analyzed the results with four indexes.

Results

Factor analyses found one factor for the measures, indicating a unidimensional construct. Yet, the multi‐aspect analyses revealed unique features of the measures, especially in relation to variables on the quality of life. Among the five measures, Perceived physical age is the best predictor of life satisfaction and perception of cognitive function (i.e., memory), such that the more satisfied individuals are with their life, the younger they feel. Ideal age is another best predictor in the opposite direction, such that the less satisfied individuals are with their life, the younger they want to be.

Conclusion

Although the factor analyses revealed subjective age to be a unidimensional construct, the present results also suggest the possibility that it is multidimensional in nature. In future studies, a more systematic approach is essential for a thorough exploration of scales designed to measure the multiple aspects of subjective age. This is particularly crucial in the context of predicting our well‐being. Such scales could also enable us to compare the universality and individuality of subjective age across different cultures. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 253–258.
LOVE'S ARCHAEOLOGY: ETHICS AND METAPHYSICS BETWEEN IRIS MURDOCH AND WILLIAM DESMOND
Authors: Buck Nicholas
Published: February 2024

Centring on human perception, attunement to others, and a transcendent conception of the good, Iris Murdoch's intervention in moral philosophy remains an insightful and evocative source for ethical theory. Discerning some pervasive dualisms that hamper its coherence and development, I suggest that her work finds a generative conversation partner in the contemporary metaphysician, William Desmond. Desmond's thought offers promising avenues to overcome these dualisms by repositioning the source and nature of value and by theorising an anti‐reductive, relational ontology. Staging a constructive encounter between these two thinkers that preserves Murdoch's distinct prioritisation of attention and individuality within a Desmond‐inspired metaphysics, I present a synthetic ethical approach that promotes the ideal of attending to an other—in the givenness of its particularity, manifold surplus, and constitutive relationality—as good in itself.
Application of bacteriophage MS2 in preliminary simulation of inactivation rate of pathogenic viruses in commercial beef and chicken packaging
Authors: Rahmati Fateme , Yavarmanesh Masoud , Edalatian Dovom Mohammad Reza
Published: February 2024

In response to the growing concern of transmitting pathogenic viruses through food, this research aimed to assess the impact of various factors on the commercial packaging of meat (chicken and beef) on the inactivation of bacteriophage MS2 which was scrutinised by examining the influence of packaging type, bacteriophage spiking levels, temperature, as well as the meat shape and type. The findings revealed that the recovery of bacteriophage MS2 from minced beef was lower in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) compared with air packaging (AP) at both storage times, spiking levels, and freezing and refrigerating temperatures. On the other hand, the recovery of the bacteriophage from chopped beef was lower in AP than in MAP in refrigerating conditions at both spiking levels during the 3 days of storage. According to our findings, the recovery levels of bacteriophage MS2 from chicken had statistically significant differences in both packaging types at different spiking levels. Storage conditions and packaging type were the most essential parameters in bacteriophage MS2 viability. The lowest bacteriophage viability belonged to MAP.
Employer and employee perceptions of cybervetting as a selection method
Authors: Akbulut Yavuz , Yildirim Şen İrem E. , Şahin Yusuf L.
Published: February 2024

Cybervetting—reviewing candidates' online profiles—is a relatively new technique used in the personnel selection processes, but empirical studies have largely been conducted with western samples. In Study 1, we interviewed 20 employers from different sectors in a metropolitan city in Turkey and examined the characteristics and implications of the construct. We summarized the reasons given by participants who avoided cybervetting (i.e., irrelevance, validity, invasion of privacy, prejudice) and those who frequently relied on cybervetting (i.e., necessity, validity, consistency checking) and illustrated perceived positive and negative online posts. In Study 2, we collected data from 316 employees in the same city to examine their perceptions of cybervetting and its relationship to organizational justice constructs. In addition to confirming international scales of cybervetting and organizational justice, we found that the face validity of cybervetting and organizational justice constructs were significantly correlated. While some differences were observed between employers and managers, no gender differences were found. The implications of both studies were presented in line with the available literature.