bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
M. tuberculosis invades and disrupts the blood brain barrier directly to initiate meningitis
Authors: Proust Alizé , Wilkinson Katalin A , Wilkinson Robert J
Published: August 2024

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is the most severe form of tuberculosis and HIV-1 co-infection worsens the already poor prognosis. HowMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) crosses the blood brain barrier (BBB) and the influence of HIV-1 on pathogenesis remains unclear. Using human pericytes, astrocytes, endothelial cells, and microglia alone; and combined in anin vitroBBB we investigatedMtb+/− HIV-1 co-infection on central nervous system cell entry and function.Mtbinfected and multiplied in all cell types with HIV-1 increasing entry to astrocytes and pericytes, and growth in HIV-1 positive pericytes and endothelial cells. The permeability of the BBB increased resulting in translocation of bacilli across it. Cytopathic effects included increased markers of cellular stress, ROS release, the induction of neurotoxic astrocytes, and increased secretion of neuroexcitotoxic glutamate. Distinct cell-type specific production of inflammatory and effector mediators were observed. These data indicateMtbcan translocate the BBB directly to initiate meningitis.
Immunophenotyping of T cells Combined with Vβ antibodies identifies long lasting CMV related T cell Expansions with a consistent TIGIT and PD-1 phenotype
Authors: van Ostaijen-ten Dam Monique M. , Schilham Marco W. , Lankester Arjan C. , Melsen Janine E.
Published: August 2024

Simultaneous analysis of T cell receptor repertoire and T cell phenotype is of high relevance to gain a deeper understanding on the T cell response in terms of differentiation, kinetics and persistence. Also it is currently unknown how the repertoire of immune checkpoints on T cells evolves over time. To fully capture the heterogenous response, TCR repertoire and T cell phenotype analysis is preferably performed at the single-cell level, but this is costly and analytically challenging. Therefore, we developed a flow cytometry based method that allows for simultaneous characterization of the T cell TCR Vβ and the phenotype. We generated a 9-tube 24-color panel with antibodies against maturation and activation markers, and 24 TCR Vβ chains. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 5 healthy controls were analyzed, revealing the presence of oligoclonal expansions. Within the CD27+CD28+ memory T cell population, oligoclonal expansions were characterized by a T regulatory, or KLRG1+CCR7-CD27low phenotype. Within the late CD27- and/or CD28-memory T cells, the populations with the lowest TCR Vβ diversity expressed CX3CR1. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate the dynamics of circulating oligoclonal T cell expansions that emerged following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the presence of CMV in 2 patients. We provide evidence that oligoclonal T cells transferred from donor to recipient can be traced up to at least 2.5 years while maintaining its phenotype. Mostly TIGIT and PD-1 were critical in defining T cell expansions, while CD45RA, CD57, CD56 and NKG2A were variably expressed. Overall, we developed a phenotype based method to trace T cell populations, that is widely applicable to different settings in which the T cell response needs to be monitored.
SARS-CoV-2 nsp16 is regulated by host E3 ubiquitin ligases, UBR5, and MARCHF7
Authors: Tian Li , Zhao Zongzheng , Gao Wenying , Liu Zirui , Li Xiao , Zhang Wenyan , Li Zhaolong
Published: August 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), remains a global public health threat with major economic implications. The non-structural protein 16 (nsp16) of SARS-CoV-2, in complex with nsp10, catalyses the final step of viral mRNA capping via its 2’-O-methylase activity, enabling the virus to evade host immunity and protect viral mRNA from degradation. However, host factors regulating nsp16 have not been thoroughly explored. Although various E3 ubiquitin ligases are known to interact with SARS-CoV-2 proteins, their specific roles in targeting nsp16 for degradation remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that nsp16 is ubiquitinated and degraded by host E3 ubiquitin ligases UBR5 and MARCHF7, acting through the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS). UBR5 and MARCHF7 induce nsp16 degradation via K48- and K27-linked ubiquitination, respectively, in independent processes that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, UBR5 and MARCHF7 exhibited broad-spectrum antiviral activity by degrading nsp16 variants from different SARS-CoV-2 strains. Our findings uncover novel mechanisms by which the UPS antagonises SARS-CoV-2 replication and provide promising targets for therapeutic intervention against COVID-19.
The central spindle drives anaphase chromosome segregation
Authors: Chen Geng-Yuan , Deng Changfeng , Chenoweth David M. , Lampson Michael A.
Published: August 2024

Anaphase chromosome segregation depends on forces exerted by spindle microtubules. In the current model, forces on chromosomes are mediated through the spindle poles: sliding of antiparallel microtubules in the central spindle pushes poles apart, while kinetochore microtubule (kMT) depolymerization pulls chromosomes towards the poles. Here we show that the central spindle is directly linked to the chromosomes rather than the poles in anaphase, based on three lines of evidence. Chromosomes in monopolar spindles can move away from the pole, consistent with forces exerted by antiparallel microtubule sliding. In bipolar spindles, kMT depolymerization is constrained by suppressing central spindle sliding, indicating kinetochore linkage to the central spindle. Finally, increasing the rate of kMT depolymerization slows pole separation without increasing chromosome separation velocity. We conclude that central spindle sliding drives anaphase chromosome separation, while kMT depolymerization limits spindle elongation.
Regulatory network analysis ofDclk1gene expression reveals a tuft cell-ILC2 axis that inhibits pancreatic tumor progression
Authors: Valenti Giovanni , Laise Pasquale , Takahashi Ryota , Wu Feijing , Ruan Tuo , Vasciaveo Alessandro , Jiang Zhengyu , Sunagawa Masaki , Middelhoff Moritz , Nienhüser Henrik , Fu Na , Malagola Ermanno , Hayakawa Yoku , Iuga Alina C. , Califano Andrea , Wang Timothy C.
Published: August 2024

Dclk1expression defines a rare population of cells in the normal pancreas whose frequency is increased at early stages of pancreatic tumorigenesis. The identity and the precise roles ofDclk1expressing cells in pancreas have been matter of debate, although evidence suggests their involvement in a number of key functions, including regeneration and neoplasia. We employed a recently developed Dclk1 reporter mouse model and single cell RNAseq analysis to defineDclk1expressing cells in normal pancreas and pancreatic neoplasia. In normal pancreas,Dclk1epithelial expression identifies subsets of ductal, islet and acinar cells. In pancreatic neoplasia,Dclk1expression identifies five epithelial cell populations, among which acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM)-like cells and tuft-like cells are predominant. These two cell populations play opposing roles in pancreatic neoplasia, with Dclk1+ADM-like cells sustaining tumor growth while Dclk1+tuft-like cells restraining tumor progression. The differentiation of Kras mutant acinar cells into Dclk1+tuft-like cells requires the activation of the transcription factor SPIB and is further supported by a cellular paracrine loop involving cancer group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) and cancer activated fibroblasts (CAFs) that provide IL13 and IL33, respectively. In turn, Dclk1+tuft-like cells release angiotensinogen that plays protective roles against pancreatic neoplasia. Overall, our study provides novel insights on the biology of Dclk1+cells in normal pancreas and unveils a protective axis against pancreatic neoplasia, involving CAFs, ILC2 and Dclk1+tuft-like cells, which ultimately results in angiotensinogen release.
Do consumers care about organic when consuming speciality bakery products or is it all about indulgence?
Authors: Drugova Tatiana , Curtis Kynda
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study explores the viability of incorporating more expensive organic wheat flour into speciality bakery products, which are of superior quality, thus justifying the higher cost. As consumers may be reluctant to purchase organic speciality baked goods due to unfavorable taste associations with organic foods, particularly those consumed as a treat or for pleasure, this study investigates the impact of providing taste assurances and origin information on consumer acceptance and WTP for organic speciality bakery products.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from an online survey of US consumers, random parameter logit models were estimated and willingness-to-pay (WTP) values were calculated.

Findings

Study results show that the use of more expensive organic flour is justified for speciality bakery products when favorable taste assurances are provided or for consumers who value organic foods. Freshness indictors were only important in the case of speciality breads, but not for other products. Finally, improving consumer awareness of organic labeling standards does not significantly impact their organic product preferences or taste perceptions.

Practical implications

This analysis aims to identify the product information likely to increase the consumption of organic speciality bakery/pastry products and thus support the incorporation of organic wheat flour into these higher-value products.

Originality/value

While previous choice experiment studies have extensively examined consumer preferences for organic products, few have evaluated the impact of providing taste and freshness indicators, particularly in the context of vice goods. This study examines the impact of providing taste and freshness indicators on consumer acceptance and WTP for various organic speciality bakery/pastry products in stated choice experiments, where consumers to not have the option to taste the product. Specifically, we examine if taste and freshness assurances reduce potential negative organic product taste biases.
Leaders beyond sport: an exploratory comparative analysis of international and domestic college athletes’ leadership competencies
Authors: Jolly Karina , Corr Chris , Sellars Nicole , Stokowski Sarah
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the leadership competencies of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) college athletes and assess the potential differences between domestic and international college athletes.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative, non-experimental research design was employed, including the use of an electronic survey to collect data. Survey research allows for extensive data management and a quick data collection method (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). The survey was conducted using online Qualtrics software, which allowed convenience in administration, maintenance, nationwide distribution and data export and analysis.

Findings

The findings of this study suggest that domestic college athletes develop greater leadership competencies than their international peers.

Practical implications

The study implications include both practical and academic contributions. The research in the area of leadership development in college athletes has been growing. Previous research has focused on the benefits of the leadership development (Lewis, 2023); however, minimal research has been dedicated to exploring actual leadership constructs within the college athlete population. Moreover, this study focused on the differences between domestic and international college athletes’ leadership constructs. International college athletes go through additional challenges while balancing the academic part of being college athletes (Ridpath, Rudd, & Stokowski, 2020).

Originality/value

Minimal research has been dedicated to exploring actual leadership constructs within the student-athlete population. This study is the first study that explored leadership constructs from the quantitative lens and focusing on both domestic and international student-athletes. The literature on international student-athletes mainly focuses on the motivation arriving to the United States of America (Love & Kim, 2011) and their transitional experiences (Popp, Pierce, & Hums, 2011; Jolly, Stokowski, Paule-Koba, Arthur-Banning, & Fridley, 2022). However, limited literature focuses on the preparation of international student-athlete for life beyond their sport.
University student entrepreneurial intentions: the effects of perceived institutional support, parental role models, and entrepreneurial self-efficacy
Authors: Gonzalez-Tamayo Lizbeth Alicia , Olarewaju Adeniyi D. , Bonomo-Odizzio Adriana , Krauss-Delorme Catherine
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study examines how perceived institutional support, parental role models, and entrepreneurial self-efficacy, representing both macro-level and personal-level factors, collectively influence students' intentions to pursue entrepreneurship in Mexico and Uruguay.

Design/methodology/approach

This research utilized quantitative methodology, specifically survey techniques, to collect data from students attending private universities. The study achieved a valid sample size of 419 respondents. Various reliability and validity tests were conducted before structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypothesized relationships between variables.

Findings

The analysis revealed that perceived institutional support does not directly impact students' entrepreneurial intentions (EI). Instead, its effect is mediated through entrepreneurial self-efficacy and the presence of parental role models, both of which are strong predictors of EI. Additionally, the study identified a direct correlation between students' nationality, their academic programs, and their EI. Age and gender, however, did not significantly influence EI.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides theoretical insights into understanding EI by combining macro-level and personal factors. This integrative method contributes to a more comprehensive approach of predicting EI within the context of Latin America.

Practical implications

The study suggests boosting investment to improve the quality of institutions, fostering an environment that supports entrepreneurship, and offering students opportunities to learn from successful role models.

Originality/value

This study was conducted in the context of two economies in Latin America. The novelty lies in combining perceived institutional factors and individual motivators to understand EI in Latin America. It uniquely emphasizes the significance of familial influences, particularly parental role models, in its analysis.
Pickering emulsion of pepper essential oil stabilized by Octenyl succinic acid starch: Characterization, in vitro release and anticancer activity
Authors: Wang Yitong , Jin Liu , Xie Baoguo , Chen Xiaoai , Xu Fei , Zhu Kexue , Wang Ping , Zhang Yanjun
Published: August 2024

Under high humidity and high temperature conditions, the quality of pepper essential oil easily deteriorates, and the oxidation of oil restricts its application, especially for the insolubility in water. This study investigated pepper essential oil encapsulated in Pickering emulsion with octenyl succinic acid starch, which was effectively able to reduce 100 times of the release rate. The smooth surface and complete particles of the emulsion were observed and no new chemical bonds were formed. The minimum particle sizes were 2.05 µm and 1.89 µm, when the Pickering emulsion was set to different storage conditions at pH 5 and 0.1 M NaCl, respectively. During gastrointestinal digestion, the release of essential oils was effectively delayed in the Pickering emulsion and the digestibility of the emulsion was 16.93% in 120 min. Compared with untreated cells, Pickering emulsion can effectively inhibit the proliferation of MCF‐7 (52.71%). All these results indicate that OSA starch stabilized pepper essential oil can effectively increase solubility, improve stability, and expand the application range. Therefore, it can provide a theoretical basis for applications of pepper essential oil, especially for the functional drug application.
Utilization of formic acid by extremely thermoacidophilic archaea species
Authors: Tejedor‐Sanz Sara , Song Young Eun , Sundstrom Eric R.
Published: August 2024

The exploration of novel hosts with the ability to assimilate formic acid, a C1 substrate that can be produced from renewable electrons and CO2, is of great relevance for developing novel and sustainable biomanufacturing platforms. Formatotrophs can use formic acid or formate as a carbon and/or reducing power source. Formatotrophy has typically been studied in neutrophilic microorganisms because formic acid toxicity increases in acidic environments below the pKa of 3.75 (25°C). Because of this toxicity challenge, utilization of formic acid as either a carbon or energy source has been largely unexplored in thermoacidophiles, species that possess the ability to produce a variety of metabolites and enzymes of high biotechnological relevance. Here we investigate the capacity of several thermoacidophilic archaea species from the Sulfolobales order to tolerate and metabolize formic acid. Metallosphaera prunae, Sulfolobus metallicus and Sulfolobus acidocaldarium were found to metabolize and grow with 1–2 mM of formic acid in batch cultivations. Formic acid was co‐utilized by this species alongside physiological electron donors, including ferrous iron. To enhance formic acid utilization while maintaining aqueous concentrations below the toxicity threshold, we developed a bioreactor culturing method based on a sequential formic acid feeding strategy. By dosing small amounts of formic acid sequentially and feeding H2 as co‐substrate, M. prunae could utilize a total of 16.3 mM of formic acid and grow to higher cell densities than when H2 was supplied as a sole electron donor. These results demonstrate the viability of culturing thermoacidophilic species with formic acid as an auxiliary substrate in bioreactors to obtain higher cell densities than those yielded by conventional autotrophic conditions. Our work underscores the significance of formic acid metabolism in extreme habitats and holds promise for biotechnological applications in the realm of sustainable energy production and environmental remediation.
Discovering and measuring giant trees through the integration of multi‐platform lidar data
Authors: Ren Yu , Guan Hongcan , Yang Haitao , Su Yanjun , Tao Shengli , Cheng Kai , Li Wenkai , Yang Zekun , Huang Guoran , Li Cheng , Xu Guangcai , Lu Zhi , Guo Qinghua
Published: August 2024

Giant trees are pivotal in forest ecosystems, yet our current understanding of their significance is constrained primarily by the limited knowledge of their precise locations and structural characteristics. Amidst escalating human‐induced disturbances globally, there is an urgent need to devise a practical approach to discover and measure giant trees accurately and efficiently.

Here, we propose a novel light detection and ranging (lidar)‐based framework designed for the discovery and measurement of giant trees. Our framework integrates cutting‐edge lidar platforms, including spaceborne, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), and backpack lidar, to create an end‐to‐end workflow. The algorithm involved in the proposed framework was compiled into a code package and made available as open source.

The method successfully identified the tallest trees in China, including the tallest tree in Asia, a Cupressus austrotibetica with a height of 102.3 m, discovered in Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon in May 2023. This finding has not only established a new record but also demonstrated the efficacy of our proposed framework. Utilising lidar data, we performed meticulous measurements at both individual and stand levels, revealing the unique characteristics of this giant tree.

The new framework for the discovery and measurement of giant trees, encompassing detailed procedures and codes, is expected to facilitate the discovery and measurement of giant trees with high efficiency, thus fostering advancements in giant tree ecology.
Parent–child interaction after home‐visiting intervention for children born extremely preterm–A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Baraldi Erika , Allodi Mara Westling , Löwing Kristina , Wadström Noni , Smedler Ann‐Charlotte , Örtqvist Maria , Westrup Björn , Ådén Ulrika
Published: August 2024

Aim

To determine whether a strength‐based home‐visiting program enhances parent–child interaction during the first year at home for children born extremely preterm (gestational age < 28).

Methods

A randomised controlled trial of 130 infants born extremely preterm 2018–2021 in Stockholm, allocated to either the Stockholm preterm interaction‐based intervention (SPIBI) (n = 66) or an extended follow‐up program (n = 64). The intervention group received ten home visits during the first year by a trained interventionist following SPIBI guidelines: an interaction‐based intervention supporting sensitive parental responses to infants' signals. The primary outcome of emotional availability was assessed at 12 months corrected age (CA) using the emotional availability scales (EAS).

Results

At 1‐year CA, data were collected from 115/130 (89%) of the included children. There were no significant group differences in emotional availability at 12 months CA. A secondary analysis showed an effect modifier in families with mothers self‐rated as depressed at discharge, with the outcome favouring intervention in the EAS dimension of child involvement.

Conclusion

The SPIBI had no significant main effect on emotional availability at 12 months CA. Children of self‐reported depressed mothers displayed superior involvement behaviour in the intervention group, prompting further research on risk groups and potential modifications of post‐discharge interventions.
Caregivers' response to cardiorespiratory events in preterm infants in the NICU – A quantitative overview
Authors: Cramer Sophie J. E. , van Zanten Henriette A. , Salverda Hylke H. , Hooper Stuart B. , Dekker Janneke , te Pas Arjan B.
Published: August 2024

Aim

Cardiorespiratory events in preterm infants pose a major challenge in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as they require a prompt response. We aimed to describe caregivers' responses to these events.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational study in 19 preterm infants (28 ± 2 weeks) on non‐invasive respiratory support using video recordings of the inside of the incubator for 72 (55–72) h. Caregivers' responses to these events were then identified from the videos.

Results

We recorded and assessed 1851 cardiorespiratory events with a median duration of 11.0 (5.0–23.0) s. No response was observed in the majority of the events (91.5%). In the remaining 8.5% events, caregivers responded by pausing the alarm, adjusting devices and/or providing tactile stimulation with an average response time of 25.4 (13.8–35.9) s. Stimulation was the most observed response and was applied in 38 different ways. On average, stimulation lasted 18.7 (11.6–44.6) s and the cardiorespiratory events were resolved 30.6 (19.5–47.6) s after stimulation started.

Conclusion

Our study showed that cardiorespiratory events are common in preterm infants in the NICU, but often not followed by intervention of the caregiver. The indication, timing and execution of responses to cardiorespiratory events is highly variable.
Trading one problem for two: The case against tobacco bans
Authors: Doucet Mathieu
Published: August 2024

The past two decades have seen growing calls for the “tobacco endgame.” Its advocates are united by their commitment to two ideas. First, tobacco‐related harms represent a catastrophic health emergency, and second, current tobacco‐control approaches are an inadequate response to the scale of that emergency. To endgame advocates, tobacco policy should have more ambitious goals than merely “controlling” tobacco. Instead, it should aim to bring about a smoke‐free world. While a range of different policies are included under the umbrella of the “tobacco endgame,” the most radical proposal is for a complete ban on tobacco. Its advocates argue that in addition to improving global public health, an effective ban on tobacco would also promote overall autonomy and would have important egalitarian benefits. This article critically examines these arguments for a tobacco ban. I argue that they rely on idealizing assumptions about the likely effects of a ban. Because an effective ban would require robust enforcement to control the illegal market in tobacco, it would be more likely to undermine autonomy and equality than it would be to promote them. By relying on idealizing assumptions and ignoring the likely consequences of a tobacco ban, advocates of a ban obscure, rather than clarify, both the policy debate and the ethical stakes. I conclude by considering the ways that idealizing assumptions should—and should not—play a role in debates about ethical issues in public policy.
Late Palaeozoic structural evolution of the Patch Bank Ridge and Utsira High, northern North Sea
Authors: Bauck M. S. , Faleide J. I. , Fossen H. , Hassaan M. , Braathen A.
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on the Late Palaeozoic development of the area east of Utsira High in the North Sea, where the stratigraphic section below the late Permian Rotliegend Group is undrilled. We use regional 3D seismic data to study structuring, sediment distribution and geomorphology across the Patch Bank Ridge and Utsira High in the North Sea. The results show that the Stord Basin and the bounding Utsira East fault initially developed during the Late Palaeozoic extension, probably during the Devonian, and that the Utsira Shear Zone controlled the location of Late Palaeozoic depocentres. The Patch Bank Ridge is an uplifted part of the Stord Basin where we identify Late Palaeozoic growth strata along the southern and northern flanks, indicating a similar timing of the structural evolution in this area. Two key wells, in the Sele High and Ling Depression, are used to relate a Late Palaeozoic isopach map with regional structuring, surface tilt and basement morphology to the enigmatic parts of the Late Palaeozoic basin system. Our results supplement regional models for the Late Palaeozoic basin development, we suggest that the deeply eroded Devonian half‐grabens preserved on the Utsira High formed parts of an extensive basin system that show stratigraphic expansion towards their bounding faults. The Top Basement surface at these highs offers several distinct geomorphologies that evolved during three periods of exposure, expressed as (i) a tilted and rugose landscape, (ii) distinct drainage networks and (iii) peneplain surfaces. Cover sediments place these landscapes to the (i) Devonian, (ii) Carboniferous/Permian/Triassic and (iii) Late Triassic periods.
Association between plasma Netrin‐1 levels and motor and nonmotor symptoms in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hua Ye , Wang Min , Yao Qingyu , Hu Bin , Lu Feng , Fan Yi , Luo Weifeng
Published: August 2024

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neuron degeneration and diverse motor and nonmotor symptoms. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial but challenging due to reliance on clinical presentation. Recent research suggests potential biomarkers for early detection, including plasma netrin‐1 (NTN‐1), a protein implicated in neuronal survival.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study recruited 105 PD patients and 65 healthy controls, assessing plasma NTN‐1 levels and correlating them with clinical characteristics. Statistical analyses explored associations between NTN‐1 levels and PD symptoms, considering demographic factors.

Results

PD patients exhibited significantly lower plasma NTN‐1 levels compared to controls. NTN‐1 demonstrated moderate potential as a PD biomarker. Positive correlations were found between NTN‐1 levels and motor, depression, and cognitive symptoms. Multiple regression analysis revealed disease duration and NTN‐1 levels as key factors influencing symptom severity. Gender also impacted symptom scores.

Conclusion

Reduced plasma NTN‐1 levels correlate with PD severity, suggesting its potential as a biomarker. However, further research is needed to elucidate the roles of NTN‐1 in PD pathophysiology and validate its diagnostic and therapeutic implications. Understanding the involvement of NTN‐1 may lead to personalized management strategies for PD.
Assessing the Role of Primary Heart Failure Etiology on Cardiac Transplant Outcomes
Authors: Firoz Ahad , Yanagida Roh , Kashem Mohammed , Toyoda Yoshiya , Hamad Eman
Published: August 2024

Background

There are diverse indications for heart transplantation (HTx), often categorized into ischemic (ICM) and nonischemic (NICM) cardiomyopathy. Although there is extensive research comparing the outcomes for these disease processes following certain therapeutic interventions, there are limited data on how recipient etiology impacts post‐HTx survival. Our investigation seeks to identify this relationship.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using adult HTx patients from the United Network for Organ Sharing database between 2000 and 2021. Patients with a combined heart–lung transplant or previous HTx were excluded. ICM included coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. NICM included nonischemic dilated (NIDCM), hypertrophic (HCM), and restrictive (RCM) cardiomyopathy. Overall survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier curves, log‐rank tests, and multivariable Cox regression models.

Results

A total of 42 268 patients were included in our study. Recipients with ICM were older and more likely to be males, obese, diabetics, and smokers. We found that patients with ICM had an increased incidence of transplant CAD (OR = 1.23, p < 0.001) and risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.22, p < 0.001) compared to NICM. When NICM was expanded, RCM had a similar hazard risk compared to ICM (HR = 1.03, p = 0.650), whereas both NIDCM (HR = 0.81, p < 0.001) and HCM (HR = 0.70, p < 0.001) had improved survival.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence to suggest that ICM has decreased survival when compared to NICM. When NICM was expanded, RCM was found to have an increased mortality risk similar to ICM, whereas NIDCM and HCM both had superior outcomes. The clinical implication of this investigation will allow clinicians to better understand the prognosis of certain patient groups.
Evaluation of subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus by combining myocardial work and triglyceride‐glucose index
Authors: Wu Ting , Chen Lu , Li Yin , Zhang Chunquan
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) frequently presents subclinical left ventricular systolic dysfunction. The TyG index is a surrogate indicator of insulin resistance and is closely related to heart failure (HF). This study aimed to evaluate subclinical systolic dysfunction in T2DM by combining myocardial work (MW) and the TyG index and to investigate the risk factors for MW.

Methods

This study included 102 diabetic patients and 78 healthy control subjects, and the diabetic group was divided into three subgroups based on the TyG index. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), global myocardial work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW), and global myocardial work efficiency (GWE) were measured in all subjects. GLS and MW were compared between the diabetic and control groups and between subgroups. Regression models were applied to analyze the risk factors for MW in diabetic patients.

Results

GLS, GWI, GCW, and GWE significantly increased, and GWW significantly decreased in the diabetic group (all p < .01). GWI and GCW were significantly lower in the T3 subgroup than in the T1 and T2 subgroups (all p < .05). The TyG index, sex (female), BMI, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and total cholesterol (TC) were independent risk factors for GWI and GCW, and HbA1c was an independent risk factor for GWI.

Conclusions

MW accurately revealed subtle changes in subclinical LV systolic dysfunction in T2DM patients. An elevated TyG index was strongly associated with decreased GWI and GCW. The TyG index, sex (female), BMI, SBP, and TC were independent risk factors for GWI and GCW, and HbA1c was an independent risk factor for GWI.
Febrile seizures and childhood epilepsy and risk of internalizing and psychotic symptoms
Authors: Nielsen Sofie J. , Bech Bodil H. , Strandberg‐Larsen Katrine , Bølling‐Ladegaard Eva , Cotsapas Chris , Christensen Jakob , Dreier Julie W.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To assess whether children with febrile seizures and/or epilepsy were at increased risk of experiencing internalizing symptoms or psychotic‐like experiences at age 11 years.

Methods

This cohort study includes 44 819 children from the 11‐year follow up of the Danish National Birth Cohort. Information on childhood seizures was retrieved from the Danish National Patient Registry, whereas child psychiatric symptoms were assessed in a web‐based questionnaire using the Adolescent Psychotic‐like Symptom Screener and the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire. Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between childhood seizures and internalizing symptoms (symptom score ≥8) and psychotic‐like experiences (≥2 definite experiences) were obtained using logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 1620 children with febrile seizures (3.6%), and 311 children with epilepsy (0.7%) were identified. When adjusted for potential confounders, no association between febrile seizures and psychiatric symptoms was observed, and no association was observed between epilepsy and psychotic‐like experiences. However, the OR for internalizing symptoms was 1.76 (95% CI: 1.20–2.58) in children with epilepsy compared to children without. This higher risk was evident mainly in boys (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.37–3.85), children with ≥2 epilepsy‐related hospital admissions (OR 2.79, 95% CI 1.81–4.32), and children whose age at first epilepsy‐related hospital admission was 0–3 years (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.45–4.19).

Significance

No association was found between febrile seizures and psychiatric symptoms or epilepsy and psychotic‐like experiences at age 11. However, boys with epilepsy were at higher risk of experiencing internalizing symptoms.
Sex differences in reduction of trunk muscle mass related to falls and cognitive function during the COVID‐19 pandemic in older adults
Authors: Nagano Masahiro , Kabayama Mai , Ohata Yuka , Kido Michiko , Rakugi Hiromi , Kamide Kei
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study aimed to examine the influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic on physical components and activity, and its relationship to physical performance in older adults.

Methods

Sixty‐seven participants aged 75 and older (81 ± 2 years, female: 66%), who underwent medical checkups continuously from 2018 to 2022 in one clinic, were enrolled. Muscle mass was assessed by the biometrical impedance analysis method, which was adjusted by height squared. Physical, oral, and cognitive performance data were obtained from Japanese standard questionnaires at medical checkups. Values obtained in 2018 and 2019 were defined as pre‐pandemic, and those in 2021 and 2022 were defined as during the pandemic.

Results

Body weight, grip strength, and skeletal mass index did not change from 2018 to 2022, but trunk muscle mass index decreased significantly. A difference in the trunk muscle mass index (TMI) was observed between 2022 and 2018/2019 in men; however, a significant difference was found between 2021 and 2022 in women. Compared with the pre‐pandemic period, TMI during the pandemic decreased only in men. The difference in TMI between the pre‐pandemic period and during the pandemic (ΔTMI) was significantly decreased in participants with low physical activity and poor oral performance before the pandemic, and in those with falls and poor cognitive function during the pandemic only in men.

Conclusion

Reduction of trunk muscle mass was related to falls and poor cognitive function during the COVID‐19 pandemic in older male adults. These data suggest that the difference in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic between men and women necessitates different types of support for older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; ••: ••–••.
Gender‐based violence in India and feminist organizing of Women's Court's work for its prevention
Authors: Barhoi Poonam , Nambudiri Ranjeet , Thomas Nobin
Published: August 2024

This article explores obstacles that Gender‐based violence (GBV) survivors face in approaching gender justice and organizations working for GBV prevention. Through an ethnographic engagement with an all‐women organization–the women's court–in India that works to prevent and resolve GBV cases, we explore the challenges in GBV interventions. While survivors' agency and their perspectives on violence and justice have often been ignored, women's courts work with a restorative approach to prioritize women's voices. Employing a postcolonial feminist approach, the study unveils challenges in attaining gender justice through a discussion on (i) the inaccessible language of law and the persuasion paradox, (ii) power relations and intersectional barriers, and (iii) the post‐administrative realities of survivors. Further, the study explores the role of feminist solidarity and strategies for resistance in GBV work. The study extends the understanding of intersectional barriers in approaching gender justice and discusses the voice and voicelessness paradigms of victims/survivors and women's court members.
Co‐Designing a Palliative Dementia Care Framework to Support Holistic Assessment and Decision Making: The EMBED‐Care Framework
Authors: Davies Nathan , Sampson Elizabeth L. , Aworinde Jesutofunmi , Gillam Juliet , Kenten Charlotte , Moore Kirsten , Phillips Bethan , Harvey Catherine , Anderson Janet , Ward Jane , Evans Catherine J. , Ellis‐Smith Clare ,   EMBED‐Care Team
Published: August 2024

Background

People with dementia have complex palliative care needs that are often unmet, including physical and psycho‐social needs. It is essential to empower people with dementia, family carers and professionals to better assess and manage care needs. We aimed to co‐design a palliative dementia care Framework delivered through a digital app to support holistic assessment and decision making for care in the community and care homes—the EMBED‐Care Framework.

Methods

A systematic co‐design approach was adopted to develop the EMBED‐Care Framework across three stages: 1) Framework analysis to synthesise data from preceding evidence reviews, large routine clinical data and cohort studies of unmet palliative dementia care need; 2) Co‐design using iterative workshops with people with dementia, family carers and health and social care professionals to construct the components, design of the app and implementation requirements; and 3) User testing to refine the final Framework and app, and strengthen use for clinical practice and methods of evaluation.

Results

The Framework was co‐designed for delivery through an app delivered by aTouchAway. It comprised five main components: 1) holistic assessment of palliative care needs using the Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale‐Dementia (IPOS‐Dem); 2) alert system of IPOS‐Dem scores to highlight unmet needs; 3) IPOS‐Dem scores and alerts enable shared decision making between the practitioner, patient and/or carer to support priority setting and goals of care; 4) evidence‐informed clinical decision support tools automatically linked with identified needs to manage care; and 5) Training package for users incorporating face‐to‐face sessions, clinical champions who received additional face‐to‐face sessions, animated videos and manual covering the main intervention components and email and telephone support from the research team.

Conclusions

This is a novel digital palliative dementia care intervention to link holistic assessment with clinical decision support tools that are practical and easy to use but address the complexity of palliative dementia care. The Framework is ready for feasibility testing and pilot studies for people with dementia residing at home or in a care home.

Patient or Public Contribution

We were guided by our Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) group consisting of three people with mild dementia, including younger onset dementia, and seven family carers throughout the project. They supported the overall development of the Framework, including planning of workshops, interpreting findings and testing the framework in our PPI meetings.
Infants' reliance on rhythm to distinguish languages: A critical review
Authors: Paillereau Nikola , Chládková Kateřina
Published: August 2024

This article reviews empirical methods and findings on early language discrimination, questioning rhythm‐class based hypotheses on language discrimination in infancy, as well as the assumption that early language discrimination is driven primarily (or solely) by temporal prosodic cues. The present work argues that within‐rhythm class discrimination which – according to the rhythmic hypothesis – is not applicable very early in life, has not been sufficiently tested with infants under 4 months of age, that familiarity with a language is not a prerequisite for its discrimination from another rhythmically similar language, and that the temporal rhythm properties may not universally be the primary cues to language discrimination. Although rhythm taxonomy is now by many understood as outdated, some developmental literature still draws on the assumption that rhythm classification determines infants' language discrimination; other studies consider rhythm along a continuous scale and only a few account for cues to language discrimination other than temporal ones. It is proposed that studies on early language discrimination systematically test the contribution of other than temporal rhythm cues, similarly to recent work on multidimensional psychoacoustic salience in the acquisition of segmental categories.
Trade‐union engendered employee trust in senior management: A case study of digitalisation
Authors: Wang Wen , Seifert Roger
Published: August 2024

Trade unions can shape employees' positive perceptions of digital technology introduction, and thus help achieve desirable outcomes. Our understanding of why and how remains limited. This article develops the argument that employees' trust in senior management's digital competency is a central issue, and a power‐sharing trade union can play an important role in mediating that relationship. We propose that workplace trade‐union power enables workers to ‘trust’ the process when they know the union can collectively bargain with senior management. This reduces digitalisation‐induced job insecurity, thereby engendering an engaged workforce to remain in post. This leads to our hypothesis that trade‐union voice has both a stronger direct and indirect effect in reducing employees' intention to exit than direct voice (direct communication with senior leaders). Our sequential mediating model supports the hypotheses on both direct and indirect pathways using 520 valid responses to a staff survey during digitalisation from a major UK public service organisation.
Prediction of body condition score throughout lactation by random regression test‐day models
Authors: Atashi H. , Chen Y. , Chelotti J. , Lemal P. , Gengler N.
Published: August 2024

Regular monitoring of body condition score (BCS) changes during lactation is a crucial management tool in dairy cattle; however, the current BCS measurements are often discontinuous and unevenly spaced in time. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of random regression test‐day models (RR‐TDM) to predict BCS for the entire lactation in dairy cows even if the actual scoring is limited to one BCS record. The data consisted of test‐day records of milk yield (MY), fat percentage (FP), protein percentage (PP) and BCS (based on a 9‐point scale with unit increments; 1–9) collected from 2014 to 2022 in 128 herds in the Walloon Region of Belgium. In total, 20,698 test‐day records on 2166 first‐parity Holstein cows (2–12 with an average of 9.42 test‐day records per cow) were available for MY, FP and PP; and 7985 records on the same animals (2–12 with an average of 3.68 records per cow) were available for BCS. To estimate the solutions, only one randomly selected BCS record per animal along with all her MY, FP and PP records were used, which were then used to predict BCS data (calibration set). The remaining BCS (1–11 with an average 2.86 BCS records per animal) were used to evaluate the goodness of the predictions (validation set). Multiple‐trait RR‐TDM was used to estimate (co)variance components through the average information restricted maximum likelihood (AI‐REML) algorithm. Predicted BCS were grouped into nine classes as the original observed BCS used for comparison. Pearson correlation between the predicted and observed BCS, prediction error (PE), absolute prediction error (APE) and root mean squared prediction error (RMSE) were calculated. Mean (standard deviation; SD) BCS was 4.97 (1.01), 4.95 (1.07) and 4.98 (1.00) BCS units in the full, calibration and validation datasets, respectively. Pearson correlation between the observed and predicted BCS was 0.71, mean (SD) PE was 0.04 (0.52) BCS units, mean (SD) APE was 0.48 (0.53) BCS units and RMSE was 0.72 BCS units. These findings demonstrate the ability of RR‐TDM to predict BCS for the entire lactation using a single BCS record along with available test‐day records of milk yield and composition in Holstein dairy cows.