bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying behaviour change theory to parent‐led language interventions for children in the early years
Authors: Barnett Sarah E. , Stringer Helen , Letts Carolyn
Published: December 2023

Background

The aim of many interventions used by speech and language therapists (SLTs) is to change behaviours related to communication and interaction. Parent‐led language interventions for children in the early years (0–5 years) rely on SLTs supporting parents to change their behaviour in child‐focused interactions to effect a change in the child's communication. Therapeutic techniques used by SLTs in parent‐led language interventions are largely underspecified, impacting on intervention reporting, replication, trialling and development. The Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy Version 1 (BCTTv1) offers a method of describing intervention techniques developed for use in public health interventions, but with several examples of its application to speech and language interventions.

Aims

To identify behaviour change techniques (BCTs) from the BCTTv1 occurring in parent‐led language interventions for children in the early years.

Methods & Procedures

A literature search identified relevant descriptions of parent‐led language interventions. These were coded using the BCTTv1. A reliability check was carried out on 10% of the descriptions. To confirm the use of identified BCTs in clinical practice, results of the literature search were triangulated with an online survey of SLTs, and observations of SLTs delivering parent‐led language intervention.

Outcomes & Results

A total of 84 papers containing descriptions of 45 interventions were coded; 62 SLTs responded to the survey and three SLTs were observed delivering parent‐led language intervention. A total of 24 BCTs were identified in the literature search, replicated in the observations and verified by SLTs in the survey. BCTs were identified at two levels: Level 1 SLT implemented to change parent interactive behaviour; and Level 2 parent implemented to change child communicative behaviour.

Conclusions & Implications

The BCTTv1 is a useful starting place for describing parent‐led language interventions. With some additions and adjustments, BCTs identified in this study were immediately recognized by practitioners and can easily be adopted into practice.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on this subject

Techniques used in SLT interventions are often not clearly described. The BCTTv1 has been used to clarify technique descriptions with success in a small number of SLT disciplines, but not yet in parent‐led language interventions for preschoola children.

What this paper adds to the existing knowledge

This paper constitutes the first research into quantifying the techniques used in parent‐led language interventions using the BCTTv1.

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?

This paper provides a clear list of techniques used by SLTs implementing interventions for preschool children, which can be immediately adopted and used in practice. It also highlights potential adjustments and gaps in the BCTTv1 in relation to SLT which can contribute to future iterations.
A New Definition of ‘Treasure’ under the Treasure Act 1996: Watershed Reform or Missed Opportunity?
Authors: Bevan Chris
Published: December 2023

A new definition of ‘treasure’ under the Treasure Act 1996 has been introduced by the UK Government providing for a significant change to our understanding of what legally constitutes ‘treasure’ in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Treasure Act 1996, which the new law amends, supports the preservation and protection of important archaeological finds for the benefit of the public, and this new reform represents the most substantial change to the legal framework governing ‘treasure’ in over a quarter of a century. This article explores this important and long‐awaited reform. It examines the new definition by examining its substance and scope and by reflecting on whether this long‐overdue change should be regarded as a watershed reform or a missed opportunity. In so doing, it is argued that, while the new law is welcome, it does not go far enough in meeting the criticisms and deficiencies of the old law under the Treasure Act 1996, which continue to echo today, nor does it satisfy the needs of the law of treasure for the 21st century.
Bringing up to date the toolkit for the catabolism of aromatic compounds in fungi: The unexpected 1,2,3,5‐tetrahydroxybenzene central pathway
Authors: Martins Tiago M. , Bento Artur , Martins Celso , Tomé Ana S. , Moreira Carlos J. S. , Silva Pereira Cristina
Published: December 2023

Saprophytic fungi are able to catabolize many plant‐derived aromatics, including, for example, gallate. The catabolism of gallate in fungi is assumed to depend on the five main central pathways, i.e., of the central intermediates' catechol, protocatechuate, hydroxyquinol, homogentisate and gentisate, but a definitive demonstration is lacking. To shed light on this process, we analysed the transcriptional reprogramming of the growth of Aspergillus terreus on gallate compared with acetate as the control condition. Surprisingly, the results revealed that the five main central pathways did not exhibit significant positive regulation. Instead, an in‐depth analysis identified four highly expressed and upregulated genes that are part of a conserved gene cluster found in numerous species of fungi, though not in Aspergilli. The cluster comprises a monooxygenase gene and a fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase‐like gene, which are recognized as key components of catabolic pathways responsible for aromatic compound degradation. The other two genes encode proteins with no reported enzymatic activities. Through functional analyses of gene deletion mutants in Aspergillus nidulans, the conserved short protein with no known domains could be linked to the conversion of the novel metabolite 5‐hydroxydienelatone, whereas the DUF3500 gene likely encodes a ring‐cleavage enzyme for 1,2,3,5‐tetrahydroxybenzene. These significant findings establish the existence of a new 1,2,3,5‐tetrahydroxybenzene central pathway for the catabolism of gallate and related compounds (e.g. 2,4,6‐trihydroxybenzoate) in numerous fungi where this catabolic gene cluster was observed.
Imaging in interventional oncology, the better you see, the better you treat
Authors: Gómez Fernando M , Van der Reijd Denise J , Panfilov Ilia A , Baetens Tarik , Wiese Kevin , Haverkamp‐Begemann Naomi , Lam Siu W , Runge Jurgen H , Rice Samuel L , Klompenhouwer Elisabeth G , Maas Monique , Helmberger Thomas , Beets‐Tan Regina GH
Published: December 2023

Imaging and image processing is the fundamental pillar of interventional oncology in which diagnostic, procedure planning, treatment and follow‐up are sustained. Knowing all the possibilities that the different image modalities can offer is capital to select the most appropriate and accurate guidance for interventional procedures. Despite there is a wide variability in physicians preferences and availability of the different image modalities to guide interventional procedures, it is important to recognize the advantages and limitations for each of them. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of the most frequently used image guidance modalities for interventional procedures and its typical and future applications including angiography, computed tomography (CT) and spectral CT, magnetic resonance imaging, Ultrasound and the use of hybrid systems. Finally, we resume the possible role of artificial intelligence related to image in patient selection, treatment and follow‐up.
Potential PCR amplification bias in identifying complex ecological patterns: Higher species compositional homogeneity revealed in smaller‐size coral reef zooplankton by metatranscriptomics
Authors: Mattos Felipe M. G. , Dreyer Niklas , Fong Chia‐Ling , Wen Yung‐Hui Victoria , Jain Dharmesh , De Vivo Mattia , Huang Yu‐Sin , Mwihaki John Karichu , Wang Tzi‐Yuan , Ho Ming‐Jay , Tsai Isheng Jason , Wang John , Chan Benny K. K. , Machida Ryuji J.
Published: December 2023

PCR‐based high‐throughput sequencing has permitted comprehensive resolution analyses of zooplankton diversity dynamics. However, significant methodological issues still surround analyses of complex bulk community samples, not least as in prevailing PCR‐based approaches. Marine drifting animals—zooplankton—play essential ecological roles in the pelagic ecosystem, transferring energy and elements to higher trophic levels, such as fishes, cetaceans and others. In the present study, we collected 48 size‐fractionated zooplankton samples in the vicinity of a coral reef island with environmental gradients. To investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of zooplankton diversity patterns and the effect of PCR amplification biases across these complex communities, we first took metatranscriptomics approach. Comprehensive computational analyses revealed a clear pattern of higher/lower homogeneity in smaller/larger zooplankton compositions across samples respectively. Our study thus suggests changes in the role of dispersal across the sizes. Next, we applied in silico PCR to the metatranscriptomics datasets, in order to estimate the extent of PCR amplification bias. Irrespective of stringency criteria, we observed clear separations of size fraction sample clusters in both metatranscriptomics and in silico datasets. In contrast, the pattern—smaller‐fractioned communities had higher compositional homogeneity than larger ones—was observed in the metatranscriptomics data but not in the in silico datasets. To investigate this discrepancy further, we analysed the mismatches of widely used mitochondrial CO1 primers and identified priming site mismatches likely driving PCR‐based biases. Our results suggest the use of metatranscriptomics or, although less ideal, redesigning the CO1 primers is necessary to circumvent these issues.
Climatic disasters and distracted analysts
Authors: Han Yuqi , Mao Connie X. , Tan Hongping , Zhang Chi
Published: December 2023

Using a sample of 30,270 forecasts by 2,280 analysts under a stacked difference‐in‐differences framework involving 22 major climatic disasters in the United States, we examine the effect of climatic disasters on information production by security analysts, who play a crucial role in the financial market as information intermediaries. We find that earnings forecasts by analysts who experienced a major climatic disaster become less accurate than those by unaffected analysts within 3 months after the disaster, due to distracted attention. Disaster‐zone analysts are more likely to allocate their attention to firms of greater importance or salience, and they tend to reiterate their previous forecasts to maintain the quantity and timeliness of their forecasts. Overall, we document the real impact of cognitive bias on financial professionals' performance.
Quantitative photography for rapid, reliable measurement of marine macro‐plastic pollution
Authors: Razzell Hollis Joseph , Henderson Gabrielle , Lavers Jennifer L. , Rea Edward , Komyakova Valeriya , Bond Alexander L.
Published: December 2023

Plastics are now ubiquitous in the environment and have been studied in wildlife and in ecosystems for more than 50 years. Measurement of size, shape and colour data for individual fragments of plastic is labour‐intensive, unreliable and prone to observer bias, particularly when it comes to assessment of colour, which relies on arbitrary and inconsistently defined colour categorisations. There is a clear need for a standard method for data collection on plastic pollution, particularly one that can be readily automated given the number of samples involved.

This study describes a new method for standardised photography of marine plastics in the 1–100 mm size range (meso‐ and macro‐plastics), including colour correction to account for any image‐to‐image variation in lighting that may impact colour reproduction or apparent brightness. Automated image analysis is then applied to detect individual fragments of plastic for quantitative measurement of size, shape, and colour.

The method was tested on 3793 fragments of debris ingested by Flesh‐footed Shearwaters (Ardenna carneipes) on Lord Howe Island, Australia, and compare results from photos taken in two separate locations using different equipment. Photos were acquired of up to 250 fragments at a time with a spatial resolution of 70 μm/pixel and were colour‐corrected using a reference chart to ensure accurate reproduction of colour. The automated image analysis pipeline was found to have a 98% success rate at detecting fragments, and the different size and shape parameters that can be outputted by the pipeline were compared in terms of usefulness.

The evidence shown in this study should strongly encourage the uptake of this method for cataloguing macro‐scale plastic pollution, as it provides substantially higher quality data with accurate, reliable measurements of size, shape and colour for individual plastics that can be readily compared between disparate datasets.
The association between chrononutrition behaviors and muscle health among older adults: The study of muscle, mobility and aging
Authors: Mao Ziling , Cawthon Peggy M. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Toledo Frederico G. S. , Esser Karyn A. , Erickson Melissa L. , Newman Anne B. , Farsijani Samaneh
Published: December 2023

Emerging studies highlight chrononutrition's impact on body composition through circadian clock entrainment, but its effect on older adults' muscle health remains largely overlooked. To determine the associations between chrononutrition behaviors and muscle health in older adults. Dietary data from 828 older adults (76 ± 5 years) recorded food/beverage amounts and their clock time over the past 24 h. Studied chrononutrition behaviors included: (1) The clock time of the first and last food/beverage intake; (2) Eating window (the time elapsed between the first and last intake); and (3) Eating frequency (Number of self‐identified eating events logged with changed meal occasion and clock time). Muscle mass (D3‐creatine), leg muscle volume (MRI), grip strength (hand‐held dynamometer), and leg power (Keiser) were used as outcomes. We used linear regression to assess the relationships between chrononutrition and muscle health, adjusting for age, sex, race, marital status, education, study site, self‐reported health, energy, protein, fiber intake, weight, height, and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity. Average eating window was 11 ± 2 h/day; first and last intake times were at 8:22 and 19:22, respectively. After multivariable adjustment, a longer eating window and a later last intake time were associated with greater muscle mass (β ± SE: 0.18 ± 0.09; 0.27 ± 0.11, respectively, p < 0.05). The longer eating window was also marginally associated with higher leg power (p = 0.058). An earlier intake time was associated with higher grip strength (−0.38 ± 0.15; p = 0.012). Chrononutrition behaviors, including longer eating window, later last intake time, and earlier first intake time were associated with better muscle mass and function in older adults.
Dexmedetomidine in the emergency department: A prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Baumgartner Kevin , Joseph Matt , Lothet Emilie , Fuller Brian M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a centrally acting sympatholytic sedative. Abundant evidence from the intensive care unit and other settings demonstrates that the use of DEX is associated with improved sedation‐related outcomes. There is a paucity of data on the use and efficacy of DEX in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

We performed a prospective single‐center observational cohort study of patients treated with intravenous DEX for any indication in the ED. We performed serial bedside evaluations of sedation depth and delirium and administered standardized questionnaires to ED physicians about their use of DEX. We assessed the incidence of hemodynamic adverse events (HAEs; bradycardia or hypotension), clinically significant HAEs (HAEs accompanied by clinical intervention or discontinuation of DEX), sedation‐related ED outcomes, and clinician perception of DEX effectiveness.

Results

We enrolled 75 patients treated with DEX in the ED during our study period. The most common indication for DEX was noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (32 patients, 43%). DEX was administered in the ED for a median of 2.6 h (interquartile range [IQR] 1.6–4.9 h), with a median infusion rate of 0.3 μg/kg/h (IQR 0.2–0.4 μg/kg/h). Clinically significant HAE occurred in nine patients (12%, 95% CI 6%–22%). Other sedative or analgesic infusions were administered in the ED to 21 patients (28%). Clinicians felt DEX was highly effective (median [IQR] effectiveness score of 5 [3–5] on a 5‐point Likert scale). The median (IQR) ED Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale post‐DEX was −1 (−4 to 0).

Conclusions

DEX is used in the ED for diverse indications. Additional data from larger cohorts and comparative studies are required to determine the precise incidence of clinically significant HAE associated with DEX use in the ED. ED clinicians have a positive perception of the effectiveness of DEX.
Overcoming stagnant flow: A scoping review of vertical movement in the emergency department
Authors: Lowie Bobbi‐Jo , Hicks Courtney , Falat Cheyenne , Hydorn Stacey Chaney , Windsor T. Andrew , Smedley Angela , Fu Yunting , Gatz J. David
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Improving emergency department (ED) patient flow has plagued many hospitals worldwide. “Vertical” flow improves throughput by maximizing use of chairs and waiting areas instead of beds. This process, however, is inconsistently described in the literature. The objective of this study was to collate existing evidence of successful vertical care programs.

Method

A scoping review was conducted within several databases utilizing key search terms to capture relevant traditional and gray literature. All articles were uploaded into Covidence (n = 1000). After duplicates were removed, remaining abstracts were initially screened by two reviewers (n = 731). Records identified by at least one reviewer subsequently underwent a two‐reviewer full‐text screening for inclusion (n = 46). This process yielded 36 articles. Finally, each record underwent data extraction by two independent study members and any inconsistencies were resolved by a third study member. Extracted data included 21 predetermined variables. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize results.

Results

Of the 36 included articles, most were published from the United States (91.7%), after 2014 (55.6%), and as a peer‐reviewed article or abstract/conference proceeding (86.1%). While every article discussed some aspect of vertical flow, most (77.8%) were observational studies. Only half of the studies reported details of staffing and/or physical resources. A variety of challenges and success strategies were described, with several themes identified. Positive outcomes were reported by most articles (86%), although measurement of outcomes varied with the two most common being length of stay (69.4%) and arrival‐to‐provider time (55.6%).

Conclusions

The findings of this scoping review provide the first summative report of existing literature on vertical flow processes within the ED setting. Despite different measurable outcomes and varied processes, most articles support the use of vertical flow to improve throughput.
Don't take my trees: Re‐evaluating the importance of trees when it comes to managing green and golden bell frog, Litoria aurea, habitat
Authors: Gould John , Callen Alex , Matthews Lynne , Beranek Chad , McHenry Colin
Published: December 2023

It is vital to identify habitats used by each life stage of a species to formulate effective conservation management and restoration guidelines. For the threatened green and golden bell frog, Litoria aurea, it is currently recommended that, to prevent waterbody shading, managed or constructed habitat for the species should not include trees. Shading has been reported to prevent adults from sun basking, reduce breeding activity, and lower water temperatures, which may impede tadpole growth and development and provide optimum conditions for the amphibian chytrid pathogen, Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis. However, the complete exclusion of trees, which are naturally present in L. aurea habitat, warrants evidence that supports this recommendation. In the present study, we used a multi‐year dataset on an L. aurea population on Kooragang Island, NSW, Australia to determine the occurrence of tree use by post‐metamorphic individuals. These data included information on nearly 12 500 individuals captured from 86 waterbodies across 8 consecutive breeding seasons. We found that tree use by juveniles, adult males, and adult females was widespread and common, occurring both during the day and night, with more than one out of every 20 individuals captured in trees. Our findings suggest that trees are a potentially important attribute of the terrestrial component of wetland habitats occupied by L. aurea. We hypothesize that trees may (i) create microhabitat for foraging and/or increased diversity of prey species, (ii) provide refuge from predators, and (iii) allow sun basking off the ground, thereby offering protection against the chytrid fungus while removing them from chytrid‐prevalent environments such as water and moist soils. We call for the careful reconsideration of tree exclusion within L. aurea habitat and further research into the benefits of allowing trees to grow near waterbodies to accommodate the ecological needs of this threatened species.
Microanatomical, histochemical and morphometric features of the major and selected minor salivary glands in laboratory Wistar rat
Authors: Adrian Florin Gal , Maria‐Catalina Matei‐Latiu , Viorel Miclaus , Vasile Rus , Calin Latiu , Adela Ratiu Ioana
Published: December 2023

The major and minor salivary glands are responsible for saliva production, a fluid drained in the oral cavity that will be involved in several functions at this level. The present study aimed to compare the microanatomy of the major (parotid, mandibular, sublingual) and minor salivary glands (von Ebner's and Weber's) of the Wistar rat, from a histological, histochemical and morphometrically point of view. Predominantly serous glands (parotid, mandibular and von Ebner's) showed differences in the secretion composition on both PAS and alcian blue reactions. The same observations were identified also for the mostly mucous salivary glands (sublingual and Weber). In terms of surface dimensions, the measurements suggested that the mucous acini have a greater surface compared with the serous ones, and, at the same time, a better‐represented polymorphism. In conclusion, the major and minor salivary glands in Wistar rats, a commonly used species in experimental procedures, showed similarities with other species including humans, but some structural traits are breed‐specific, this finding is very important for an extensive understanding of the morphophysiology of the salivary glands.
Differences in shift and work‐related patterns between metropolitan and regional/rural healthcare shift workers and the occupational health and safety risks
Authors: Booker Lauren A. , Spong Jo , Hodge Brad , Deacon‐Crouch Melissa , Bish Melanie , Mills Jane , Skinner Timothy C.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To explore if there are differences in shift patterns and work‐related factors between metropolitan and regional/rural healthcare shift workers and their risk of poor sleep and mental health. Furthermore, explore whether these factors impact on medical errors, workplace and car/near car accidents.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Setting

An anonymous online survey of healthcare shift workers in Australia.

Participants

A total of 403 nurses, midwives and paramedics completed the survey.

Main outcome measures

Sample characteristics, employment location, shift work‐related features, sleep and mental health measurements, workplace accidents, medical errors and car/near car accident post shift.

Results

Regional/rural healthcare shift workers were significantly older, had more years' experience, worked more nights, on‐call and hours per week. Those in metropolitan areas took significantly longer (minutes) to travel to work, had higher levels of anxiety, increased risk of shift work disorder, reported significantly more workplace accidents and were more likely to have a car/near car accident when commuting home post shift. Both groups reported ~25% having a medical error in the past year. Workplace accidents were related to more on‐call shifts and poor sleep quality. Medical errors were associated with fewer years' experience, more evening shifts and increased stress. Car accidents were associated with metropolitan location and increased depression.

Conclusion

Differences in work‐related factors between metropolitan and regional/rural healthcare shift workers were observed. Some of these factors contributed to occupational health and safety risks. Further exploration is needed to understand how to reduce occupational health and safety risks, and improve employee and patient safety both in both regional/rural and metropolitan areas.
Effects of cost and praise‐seeking need on motive inference for those who engage in helping behaviours
Authors: Yamamoto Keisuke , Ikegami Tomoko , Yama Hiroshi
Published: December 2023

This study revealed determinants that influence motive inference toward helpers who engage in lifesaving. The costly signalling theory contends that higher costs associated with helping behaviour will promote one's inference of altruistic motives toward a helper. We examined how costs affect third parties' motive inference when controlling for benefits to recipients. In addition, in terms of projection theory, we predicted that the stronger the third parties' praise‐seeking need, the more likely it is they will infer self‐presentational motives toward a helper. We also examined if the praise‐seeking need would moderate the effect of cost on motive inference. Two vignette studies using hypothetical scenarios were conducted. In Study 1 (N = 140) and Study 2 (N = 100), the main effect of costs was found to be significant, indicating that the larger the cost, the more likely it is that a third party inferred altruistic motives toward a helper. Moreover, the main effect (but not the moderation effect) of the praise‐seeking need was also significant, as predicted above. This study provides stronger support for the costly signalling theory and reveals an individual‐difference factor that determines motive inference toward a helper.
Quantifying hospital environmental ventilation using carbon dioxide monitoring – a multicentre study
Authors: Wilson N. M. , Calabria C. , Warren A. , Finlay A. , O'Donovan A. , Passerello G. L. , Ribaric N. L. , Ward P. , Gillespie R. , Farrel R. , McNarry A. F. , Pan D.
Published: December 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of environmental ventilation in reducing airborne pathogen transmission. Carbon dioxide monitoring is recommended in the community to ensure adequate ventilation. Dynamic measurements of ventilation quantifying human exhaled waste gas accumulation are not conducted routinely in hospitals. Instead, environmental ventilation is allocated using static hourly air change rates. These vary according to the degree of perceived hazard, with the highest change rates reserved for locations where aerosol‐generating procedures are performed, where medical/anaesthetic gases are used and where a small number of high‐risk infective or immunocompromised patients may be isolated to reduce cross‐infection. We aimed to quantify the quality and distribution of ventilation in hospital by measuring carbon dioxide levels in a two‐phased prospective observational study. First, under controlled conditions, we validated our method and the relationship between human occupancy, ventilation and carbon dioxide levels using non‐dispersive infrared carbon dioxide monitors. We then assessed ventilation quality in patient‐occupied (clinical) and staff break and office (non‐clinical) areas across two hospitals in Scotland. We selected acute medical and respiratory wards in which patients with COVID‐19 are cared for routinely, as well as ICUs and operating theatres where aerosol‐generating procedures  are performed routinely. Between November and December 2022, 127,680 carbon dioxide measurements were obtained across 32 areas over 8 weeks. Carbon dioxide levels breached the 800 ppm threshold for 14% of the time in non‐clinical areas vs. 7% in clinical areas (p < 0.001). In non‐clinical areas, carbon dioxide levels were > 800 ppm for 20% of the time in both ICUs and wards, vs. 1% in operating theatres (p < 0.001). In clinical areas, carbon dioxide was > 800 ppm for 16% of the time in wards, vs. 0% in ICUs and operating theatres (p < 0.001). We conclude that staff break, office and clinical areas on acute medical and respiratory wards frequently had inadequate ventilation, potentially increasing the risks of airborne pathogen transmission to staff and patients. Conversely, ventilation was consistently high in the ICU and operating theatre clinical environments. Carbon dioxide monitoring could be used to measure and guide improvements in hospital ventilation.
Integrative NGS testing reveals clonal dynamics of adverse genomic defects contributing to a natural progression in treatment‐naïve CLL patients
Authors: Navrkalova Veronika , Plevova Karla , Radova Lenka , Porc Jakub , Pal Karol , Malcikova Jitka , Pavlova Sarka , Doubek Michael , Panovska Anna , Kotaskova Jana , Pospisilova Sarka
Published: December 2023

Large‐scale next‐generation sequencing (NGS) studies revealed extensive genetic heterogeneity, driving a highly variable clinical course of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The evolution of subclonal populations contributes to diverse therapy responses and disease refractoriness. Besides, the dynamics and impact of subpopulations before therapy initiation are not well understood. We examined changes in genomic defects in serial samples of 100 untreated CLL patients, spanning from indolent to aggressive disease. A comprehensive NGS panel LYNX, which provides targeted mutational analysis and genome‐wide chromosomal defect assessment, was employed. We observed dynamic changes in the composition and/or proportion of genomic aberrations in most patients (62%). Clonal evolution of gene variants prevailed over the chromosomal alterations. Unsupervised clustering based on aberration dynamics revealed four groups of patients with different clinical behaviour. An adverse cluster was associated with fast progression and early therapy need, characterized by the expansion of TP53 defects, ATM mutations, and 18p− alongside dynamic SF3B1 mutations. Our results show that clonal evolution is active even without therapy pressure and that repeated genetic testing can be clinically relevant during long‐term patient monitoring. Moreover, integrative NGS testing contributes to the consolidated evaluation of results and accurate assessment of individual patient prognosis.
SARAF overexpression impairs thrombin‐induced Ca2+ homeostasis in neonatal platelets
Authors: Berna‐Erro Alejandro , Granados Maria P. , Teruel‐Montoya Raul , Ferrer‐Marin Francisca , Delgado Elena , Corbacho Antonio J. , Fenández Esperanza , Vazquez‐Godoy Maria T. , Tapia Jose A. , Redondo Pedro Cosme
Published: December 2023

Neonatal platelets present a reduced response to the platelet agonist, thrombin (Thr), thus resulting in a deficient Thr‐induced aggregation. These alterations are more pronounced in premature newborns. Here, our aim was to uncover the causes underneath the impaired Ca2+ homeostasis described in neonatal platelets. Both Ca2+ mobilization and Ca2+ influx in response to Thr are decreased in neonatal platelets compared to maternal and control woman platelets. In neonatal platelets, we observed impaired Ca2+ mobilization in response to the PAR‐1 agonist (SFLLRN) or by blocking SERCA3 function with tert‐butylhydroquinone. Regarding SOCE, the STIM1 regulatory protein, SARAF, was found overexpressed in neonatal platelets, promoting an increase in STIM1/SARAF interaction even under resting conditions. Additionally, higher interaction between SARAF and PDCD61/ALG2 was also observed, reducing SARAF ubiquitination and prolonging its half‐life. These results were reproduced by overexpressing SARAF in MEG01 and DAMI cells. Finally, we also observed that pannexin 1 permeability is enhanced in response to Thr in control woman and maternal platelets, but not in neonatal platelets, hence, leading to the deregulation of the Ca2+ entry found in neonatal platelets. Summarizing, we show that in neonatal platelets both Ca2+ accumulation in the intracellular stores and Thr‐evoked Ca2+ entry through either capacitative channels or non‐selective channels are altered in neonatal platelets, contributing to deregulated Ca2+ homeostasis in neonatal platelets and leading to the altered aggregation observed in these subjects.
Patterns of liana diversity and host interaction networks in selectively logged and unlogged forests of Uppangala, Western Ghats, India
Authors: Wilson Vincy K. , Ayyappan Narayanan , Parthasarathy Narayanaswamy , Menon Devika , Behera Debabrata
Published: December 2023

Lianas shape tropical forest species composition, structure, and dynamics. Increasing climate fluctuation and anthropogenic disturbances increase liana abundance. Despite the increasing number of liana studies in India, only a few have examined the distribution and association of hosts with lianas, or liana–host interaction networks to determine their functional significance and conservational value. Therefore, our objective was to fill the knowledge gap about the diversity, abundance, and network structure of liana–host interactions in response to logging disturbance in a wet evergreen forest of Uppangala in central Western Ghats, India. We sampled lianas ≥1 cm in diameter at 1.3 m from the base and their host trees in thirty 20 m × 20 m plots in selectively logged and unlogged forest management regimes. We evaluated liana–host tree interactions in logged and unlogged forests and retrieved community‐level measures (nestedness, connectance, modularity, and network specialization index) and species‐level indicators (species specialization index). Diversity and abundance of liana species were considerably greater in the selectively logged forest site. The logged forest site had compartmentalization, anti‐nestedness, and network specialization, while unlogged forests were not showing any significant network structure. Most species of lianas and hosts were peripherals, but others were structurally important (connectors, module hubs, and network hubs) in the two forest sites. Forest management regimes had distinct structurally significant species.
Conceptualizations of health, ability to act upon those definitions and desire for supports among families from historically marginalized communities
Authors: Stransky Michelle L. , Bremer‐Kamens Miriam , Bair‐Merritt Megan , Howard Carey , Brooks Candace , Meill Augusta , Morris Anita , Sheldrick R. Christopher
Published: December 2023

Respect for parents' values and clinician–parent collaboration is less common among families from historically marginalized communities. We investigated how parents from marginalized communities operationalize health and their preferences for paediatric primary care. We recruited families who spoke English, Haitian Creole or Spanish with at least one child younger than 6 years old. Staff queried families' values and life experiences, perspectives on health and healthcare, social supports and resources. Fourteen interviews with the parents of 26 children were thematically analysed. Interviews revealed the following four themes: (1) parents' definitions of ‘health’ extend beyond physical health; (2) families' ability to actuate health definitions is complicated by poverty's impact on agency; (3) parents engage in ongoing problem recognition and identify solutions, but enacting solutions can be derailed by barriers and (4) parents want support from professionals and peers who acknowledged the hard work of parenting. Eliciting parents' multidimensional conceptualizations of health can support families' goal achievement and concern identification in the context of isolation, limited agency and few resources. Efforts to improve family centred care and reduce disparities in paediatric primary care must be responsive to the strengths, challenges, resources and priorities of marginalized families.
Working towards convergence of the clinical management of differences of sex development/intersex conditions and the human rights framework: A case study
Authors: Cools Martine , Verhagen Emmanuelle , Hoebeke Piet , Van Hoecke Eline , Cannoot Pieter
Published: December 2023

Objective

Medical treatments that aim to modify the appearance of the genitals in children who are born with a difference of sex development/intersex (DSD/I*) condition are highly controversial. Human Rights bodies worldwide have argued that such treatments are conflicting with the child's right of personal autonomy and should be legally restricted to the unique situation where the child's physical health is in danger.

Design

We here review the current status of legal initiatives in Europe that have addressed the issue of medical treatments in minors who have a DSD for which they have not been able to give personal informed consent due to their young age.

Patients

The management of a 3 years old child who has congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and grows up with atypical‐looking genitals is discussed.

Results

In spite of extensive psychosocial support to the child and family from birth onwards, and good medical control of CAH, the child develops signs of emotional distress, suspected to be attributable to the genital difference. Our discussions include perspectives from the multidisciplinary DSD team caring for the child, a human rights specialist, and an intersex activist. From our discussions, we conclude that with evolving medical care, new ethical and human rights challenges are raised. A truly holistic human rights approach should not only consider physical but also mental health and psychosocial and psychosexual adaptation of the child to the medical condition, when reflecting on the acceptability of medical treatments in minors for which no personal informed consent can be obtained due to their young age. In addition it is paramount to include the meaningful participation of the child in the clinical management at the earliest possible stage.

Conclusions

Continued convergence of clinical management and the human rights framework can be realised based on constructive discussions involving all stakeholders, and with the best interest of the child – and adult that they will become ‐ as a common goal.
TBX5 pathogenic variant in a patient with congenital heart defect and tracheal stenosis
Authors: Yamoto Kaori , Kato Fumiko , Yamoto Masaya , Fukumoto Koji , Shimizu Kenji , Saitsu Hirotomo , Ogata Tsutomu
Published: December 2023

Congenital tracheal stenosis is a rare life‐threatening disorder caused by narrow O‐shaped tracheal ring without smooth muscle. Its underlying genetic cause has not been elucidated. We performed whole exome sequencing in a patient with congenital tracheal stenosis and congenital heart defect, and identified a de novo pathogenic TBX5 variant (NM_181486.4:c.680T>C, p.(Ile227Thr)). The Ile227Thr‐TBX5 protein was predicted to have a decreased stability by in silico protein structural analyses, and was shown to have a significantly reduced activity for the NPPA promoter by luciferase assay. The results, together with the expression of mouse Tbx5 in the lung and trachea and the development of tracheal cartilage dysplasia in the lung‐specific Tbx5 null mice, imply the relevance of TBX5 pathogenic variants to congenital tracheal stenosis.
Russian fathers' involvement in childcare, children's education and housework during the COVID‐19 lockdown
Authors: Mikhaylova Oxana , Sivak Elizaveta
Published: December 2023

This study attempts to determine whether the increasing need for parental assistance with schooling and the improved options for this owing to remote work had an impact on fathers' involvement in childcare, children's education and housework during the COVID‐19 lockdown. We make use of information from a May 2020 online poll of 1359 Russian mothers. Using binary logistic regression, we examine the links between fathers' work schedules, the need for additional school support for children and an increase in father involvement. We compare father involvement in children's education and childcare before and during the lockdown. Our findings partially corroborate the ‘needs exposure’ theory, which holds that greater awareness of family needs can boost fathers' engagement. Furthermore, they emphasize that, given the high likelihood of upcoming pandemics and other crises affecting family life, considerable steps should be taken to promote gender equality in the family and the workplace. Such actions might be advantageous for the health of both parents and children.
Conversational Eyebrow Frowns Facilitate Question Identification: An Online Study Using Virtual Avatars
Authors: Nota Naomi , Trujillo James P. , Holler Judith
Published: December 2023

Conversation is a time‐pressured environment. Recognizing a social action (the ‘‘speech act,’’ such as a question requesting information) early is crucial in conversation to quickly understand the intended message and plan a timely response. Fast turns between interlocutors are especially relevant for responses to questions since a long gap may be meaningful by itself. Human language is multimodal, involving speech as well as visual signals from the body, including the face. But little is known about how conversational facial signals contribute to the communication of social actions. Some of the most prominent facial signals in conversation are eyebrow movements. Previous studies found links between eyebrow movements and questions, suggesting that these facial signals could contribute to the rapid recognition of questions. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether early eyebrow movements (eyebrow frown or raise vs. no eyebrow movement) facilitate question identification. Participants were instructed to view videos of avatars where the presence of eyebrow movements accompanying questions was manipulated. Their task was to indicate whether the utterance was a question or a statement as accurately and quickly as possible. Data were collected using the online testing platform Gorilla. Results showed higher accuracies and faster response times for questions with eyebrow frowns, suggesting a facilitative role of eyebrow frowns for question identification. This means that facial signals can critically contribute to the communication of social actions in conversation by signaling social action‐specific visual information and providing visual cues to speakers’ intentions.
A community‐driven captive‐breeding and reintroduction program maintains genetic diversity in a threatened freshwater fish
Authors: Buckley Sean James , Brauer Chris , Lamin Chris , Rose Peter , Vornicu Diana‐Elena , Beheregaray Luciano B.
Published: December 2023

Collaborative approaches to conservation management are critical to respond to the ongoing biodiversity crisis. However, local community involvement in many conservation actions is lacking, especially within translocation and reintroduction programs. Similarly, rapid integration of genetic information into collaborative programs with local communities is rarely conducted. Here, we describe a community‐based and collaborative reintroduction program for a threatened Australian freshwater fish, the southern pygmy perch (Nannoperca australis). We integrate on‐the‐ground translocation efforts by volunteers from local communities, captive breeding by a private aquarium business, and genetic analyses done by a research institution to provide a holistic framework for the reintroduction of southern pygmy perch. We evaluated genetic diversity, population structure, relatedness, and inbreeding across the duration of the reintroduction program using data from neutral and adaptive genomic markers. This allowed us to assess the ability of such a program to minimize inbreeding and retain genomic variation, and to promote adaptive potential of the reintroduced population. While genetic variation for the source populations was very low, we found no decrease in genetic diversity or increase in inbreeding across the program. These genetic findings support the efforts made by local communities and will further inform future reintroductions as part of a collaborative conservation framework. We expand on our empirical case study by describing a theoretical framework for integrating conservation genomics research with community‐led conservation management programs and identifying the benefits of such a collaboration. Our study highlights the importance of multifaceted and integrated conservation management approaches to effectively protect and manage threatened species.
An international survey of venous thromboembolic events and current practices of peri‐operative VTE prophylaxis after living donor hepatectomy
Authors: Reddy Mettu Srinivas , Kasahara Mureo , Ikegami Toru , Lee Kwang‐Woong ,   the iLDLT Vanguard Multi‐Center Study Project
Published: December 2023

Background

Venous thromboembolic complications are an uncommon but significant cause of morbidity & mortality after live donor hepatectomy . The precise incidence of these events and the current practices of centers performing living donor liver transplantation worldwide are unknown.

Methods

An online survey was shared amongst living donor liver transplantation centers containing questions regarding center activity, center protocols for donor screening, peri‐operative thromboembolic prophylaxis and an audit of ‐perioperative venous thromboembolic events after live donor hepatectomy in the previous five years (2016–2020).

Results

Fifty‐one centers from twenty countries completed the survey. These centers had cumulatively performed 11500 living donor liver transplants between 2016–2020. All centers included pre‐operative l assessment for thromboembolic risk amongst potential liver donors in their protocols. Testing for inherited prothrombotic conditions was performed by 58% of centers. Dual‐mode prophylaxis was the most common practice (65%), while eight and four centers used single mode or no routine prophylaxis respectively. Twenty (39%) and 15 (29%) centers reported atleast one perioperative deep venous thrmobosis or pulmonary embolism event respectively. There was one donor mortality directly related to post‐operative pulmonary embolism. Overall incidence of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism events was 3.65 and 1.74 per 1000 live donor hepatectomies respectively. Significant variations in center practices and incidence of thromboembolic events was identified in the survey primarily divided along world regions. 75% of participating centers agreed on the need for clear international guidelines.

Conclusion

Venous thromboembolic events after live donor hepatectomy are an uncommon but important cause of donor morbidity. There is significant variation in practice among centers. Evidence‐based guidelines regarding risk assessment, and peri‐operative prophylaxis are needed.