bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unfavorable cancer mortality‐to‐incidence ratios in patients with schizophrenia: A nationwide cohort study in Taiwan, 2000–2019
Authors: Cheng Chu‐Syuan , Chen Wen‐Yin , Chang Hu‐Ming , Pan Chun‐Hung , Su Sheng‐Siang , Tsai Shang‐Ying , Chen Chiao‐Chicy , Kuo Chian‐Jue
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Studies on cancer incidence and mortality in patients with schizophrenia have reported inconsistent findings. In this study, we simultaneously investigated cancer incidence and mortality in patients with schizophrenia and evaluated the cancer mortality‐to‐incidence ratio (MIR), which is rare in the literature.

Methods

From the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database, we collected the data of 107,489 patients who received a diagnosis of schizophrenia between 2000 and 2019. Data regarding cancer incidence and mortality were obtained from the Taiwan Cancer Registry and National Mortality Database, respectively. In total, 3881 incident cancer cases and 2288 cancer mortality cases were identified. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), mortality rate ratios (MRRs), and MIRs were compared between patients with schizophrenia and the general population.

Results

The overall rate of cancer incidence was slightly lower (SIR: 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92–0.98; p < 0.001) and that of cancer mortality was higher (MRR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.23–1.3; p < 0.001) in patients with schizophrenia than in the general population. The MIR for overall cancer was significantly higher in the patients with schizophrenia. The relative MIR (MIR of patients with schizophrenia divided by that of the general population) was 1.36 (95% CI: 1.30–1.42).

Conclusion

The MIR was significantly higher in the patients with schizophrenia than in the general population, indicating the possible presence of healthcare disparities. Additional studies are required to investigate the potential association between the significantly higher MIR in patients with schizophrenia and healthcare disparities.
Sesame eliciting and safe doses in a large sesame allergic population
Authors: Nachshon Liat , Westerhout Joost , Blom W. Marty , Remington Benjamin , Levy Michael B. , Goldberg Michael R. , Epstein‐Rigbi Naama , Katz Yitzhak , Elizur Arnon
Published: August 2023

Background

Sesame is a significant food allergen causing severe and even fatal reactions. Given its increasing prevalence in western diet, sesame is listed as an allergenic food requiring labeling in the United States and EU. However, data on the population reaction doses to sesame are limited.

Methods

All sesame oral food challenges (OFCs), performed either for diagnosis or for threshold identification before the beginning of sesame oral immunotherapy (OIT) between November 2011 and July 2021 in Shamir medical center were analyzed for reaction threshold distribution. Safe‐dose challenges with 90–120 min intervals were also analyzed.

Results

Two hundred and fifty patients underwent 338 positive OFCs, and additional 158 safe‐dose OFCs were performed. The discrete and cumulative protein amounts estimated to elicit an objective reaction in 1% (ED01) of the entire cohort (n = 250) were 0.8 mg (range 0.3–6.3) and 0.7 mg (range 0.1–7.1), respectively, and those for 5% of the population (ED05) were 3.4 mg (range 1.2–20.6) and 4.5 mg (range 1.2–28.8), respectively. Safe‐dose OFCs showed similar values of ED01 (0.8, 0.4–7.5 mg) and ED05 (3.4, 1.2–22.9 mg). While doses of ≤1 mg sesame protein elicited oral pruritus in 11.6% of the patients, no objective reaction was documented to this amount in any of the challenges, including safe‐dose OFCs.

Conclusions

This study provides data on sesame reaction threshold distribution in the largest population of allergic patients studied, with no right or left censored data, and with validation using a safe‐dose OFC. It further supports the current methods for ED determination as appropriate for establishing safety precautions for the food industry.
Outcomes of primary leadless pacemaker implantation: A systematic review
Authors: Noor Tayyiba Ahmed , Rana Muhammad Omer Rehman , Kumari Sapna , Umer Bakht , Malik Jahanzeb , Ashraf Amna , Faraz Maria , Hussain Tabligh , Awais Muhammad , Mehmoodi Amin , Hayat Azmat
Published: August 2023

Background

During the last decade, leadless pacemakers (LPMs) have turned into a prevalent alternative to traditional transvenous (TV) pacemakers; however, there is no consolidated data on LPM implantation in emergencies.

Methods

Digital databases were searched for this review and four relevant studies, including 1276 patients were included in this review with procedure duration, fluoroscopic time, major complications, and mortality as primary outcomes and pacing threshold, impedance, sensing of LPM, and hospital stay as secondary outcomes.

Results

Gonzales et al. and Marschall et al. showed the duration of the procedure to be 180 ± 45 versus 324.6 ± 92 and 39.9 ± 8.7 versus 54.9 ± 9.8, respectively. Zhang et al. demonstrated the duration of the procedure and fluoroscopy time to be 36 ± 13.4 and 11.1 ± 3.1, respectively. Similarly, Schiavone et al. exhibited intermediate times of implantation at 60 (45–80) versus 50 (40–65) and fluoroscopic times at 6.5 (5–9.7) versus 5.1 (3.1–9). Hospital stay was more with a temp‐perm pacemaker as compared to LPM and pacing parameters were not significantly different in all the studies.

Conclusion

For underlying arrhythmias, whenever appropriate, our review shows that LPMs may be a better option than temporary pacemakers, even as an urgent treatment.
Case Report: CAR‐T cells and subsequent maintenance with ponatinib in an adult Philadelphia acute lymphoblastic leukemia patient with hematological and extramedullary relapse after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Canale Filippo Antonio , Pitea Martina , Alati Caterina , Porto Gaetana , Pratico Giulia , Utano Giovanna , Germanò Jessyca , Imbalzano Lucrezia , Ferreri Anna , Verduci Chiara , Santoro Ludovica , Policastro Giorgia , Loteta Barbara , Pugliese Marta , Martino Massimo
Published: August 2023

Relapsed or refractory (r/r) Philadelphia chromosome–positive (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) still represent an unmet clinical need despite the new immune therapies available for these patients. We report the case of a Ph + ALL relapsed one year after allogeneic stem cell transplant. After one DLI was started CAR‐T program with brexucabtageneautoleucel, using as bridging treatment ponatinib, vincristine and prednisone. Brexu‐cel infusion was performed in 2023, without CRS or ICANS onset. One month after Brexu‐cel infusion BM aspirate and CT‐PET showed recovery of full donor chimerism, MRD negativity and complete metabolic remission. Subsequently was started maintenance with ponatinib: at last follow‐up, the patient persisted in leukemia‐free status. CAR‐T cells represent the most powerful treatment for r/r Ph + ALL but there is no consensus about the optimal bridging strategy and also regarding the management algorithm during “post CAR‐T phase”. Here, we report the efficacy of ponatinib as a bridge to anti‐CD19 CAR‐T cell therapy and as post CAR‐T maintenance. Our experience suggests that a preserving approach with TKI associated to low‐dose chemotherapy can be the optimal bridging therapy prior to CAR‐T and that an “MRD‐guided” and “TKI‐based” maintenance strategy can represent the best choice for Ph + ALL which satisfactorily responds to CAR‐T.
The Database of European Forest Insect and Disease Disturbances: DEFID2
Authors: Forzieri Giovanni , Dutrieux Loïc P. , Elia Agata , Eckhardt Bernd , Caudullo Giovanni , Taboada Flor Álvarez , Andriolo Alessandro , Bălăcenoiu Flavius , Bastos Ana , Buzatu Andrei , Dorado Fernando Castedo , Dobrovolný Lumír , Duduman Mihai‐Leonard , Fernandez‐Carrillo Angel , Hernández‐Clemente Rocío , Hornero Alberto , Ionuț Săvulescu , Lombardero María J. , Junttila Samuli , Lukeš Petr , Marianelli Leonardo , Mas Hugo , Mlčoušek Marek , Mugnai Francesco , Nețoiu Constantin , Nikolov Christo , Olenici Nicolai , Olsson Per‐Ola , Paoli Francesco , Paraschiv Marius , Patočka Zdeněk , Pérez‐Laorga Eduardo , Quero Jose Luis , Rüetschi Marius , Stroheker Sophie , Nardi Davide , Ferenčík Ján , Battisti Andrea , Hartmann Henrik , Nistor Constantin , Cescatti Alessandro , Beck Pieter S. A.
Published: August 2023

Insect and disease outbreaks in forests are biotic disturbances that can profoundly alter ecosystem dynamics. In many parts of the world, these disturbance regimes are intensifying as the climate changes and shifts the distribution of species and biomes. As a result, key forest ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, regulation of water flows, wood production, protection of soils, and the conservation of biodiversity, could be increasingly compromised. Despite the relevance of these detrimental effects, there are currently no spatially detailed databases that record insect and disease disturbances on forests at the pan‐European scale. Here, we present the new Database of European Forest Insect and Disease Disturbances (DEFID2). It comprises over 650,000 harmonized georeferenced records, mapped as polygons or points, of insects and disease disturbances that occurred between 1963 and 2021 in European forests. The records currently span eight different countries and were acquired through diverse methods (e.g., ground surveys, remote sensing techniques). The records in DEFID2 are described by a set of qualitative attributes, including severity and patterns of damage symptoms, agents, host tree species, climate‐driven trigger factors, silvicultural practices, and eventual sanitary interventions. They are further complemented with a satellite‐based quantitative characterization of the affected forest areas based on Landsat Normalized Burn Ratio time series, and damage metrics derived from them using the LandTrendr spectral–temporal segmentation algorithm (including onset, duration, magnitude, and rate of the disturbance), and possible interactions with windthrow and wildfire events. The DEFID2 database is a novel resource for many large‐scale applications dealing with biotic disturbances. It offers a unique contribution to design networks of experiments, improve our understanding of ecological processes underlying biotic forest disturbances, monitor their dynamics, and enhance their representation in land‐climate models. Further data sharing is encouraged to extend and improve the DEFID2 database continuously. The database is freely available at https://jeodpp.jrc.ec.europa.eu/ftp/jrc‐opendata/FOREST/DISTURBANCES/DEFID2/.
Evaluation of Hydraulic Conductivity Estimates from Various Approaches with Groundwater Flow Models
Authors: Sun Dongwei , Luo Ning , Vandenhoff Aaron , McCall Wesley , Zhao Zhanfeng , Wang Chenxi , Rudolph David L. , Illman Walter A.
Published: August 2023

Significant efforts have been expended for improved characterization of hydraulic conductivity (K) and specific storage (Ss) to better understand groundwater flow and contaminant transport processes. Conventional methods including grain size analyses (GSA), permeameter, slug, and pumping tests have been utilized extensively, while Direct Push‐based Hydraulic Profiling Tool (HPT) surveys have been developed to obtain high‐resolution K estimates. Moreover, inverse modeling approaches based on geology‐based zonations, and highly parameterized Hydraulic Tomography (HT) have also been advanced to map spatial variations of K and Ss between and beyond boreholes. While different methods are available, it is unclear which one yields K estimates that are most useful for high resolution predictions of groundwater flow. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to evaluate various K estimates at a highly heterogeneous field site obtained with three categories of characterization techniques including: (1) conventional methods (GSA, permeameter, and slug tests); (2) HPT surveys; and (3) inverse modeling based on geology‐based zonations and highly parameterized approaches. The performance of each approach is first qualitatively analyzed by comparing K estimates to site geology. Then, steady‐state and transient groundwater flow models are employed to quantitatively assess various K estimates by simulating pumping tests not used for parameter estimation. Results reveal that inverse modeling approaches yield the best drawdown predictions under both steady and transient conditions. In contrast, conventional methods and HPT surveys yield biased predictions. Based on our research, it appears that inverse modeling and data fusion are necessary steps in predicting accurate groundwater flow behavior.
Supporting patients to prepare for total knee replacement: Evidence‐, theory‐ and person‐based development of a ‘Virtual Knee School’ digital intervention
Authors: Anderson Anna M. , McHugh Gretl A. , Comer Christine , Joseph Judith , Smith Toby O. , Yardley Lucy , Redmond Anthony C.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Digital delivery of pre‐operative total knee replacement (TKR) education and prehabilitation could improve patient outcomes pre‐ and post‐operatively. Rigorously developing digital interventions is vital to help ensure they achieve their intended outcomes whilst mitigating their potential drawbacks.

Objective

To develop a pre‐operative TKR education and prehabilitation digital intervention, the ‘Virtual Knee School’ (VKS).

Methods

The VKS was developed using an evidence‐, theory‐ and person‐based approach. This involved a mixed methods design with four phases. The first three focused on planning the VKS. The final phase involved creating a VKS prototype and iteratively refining it through concurrent think‐aloud interviews with nine patients who were awaiting/had undergone TKR. Meta‐inferences were generated by integrating findings from all the phases. ISRCTN registration of the overall project was obtained on 24 April 2020 (ISRCTN11759773).

Results

Most participants found the VKS prototype acceptable overall and considered it a valuable resource. Conversely, a minority of participants felt the prototype's digital format or content did not meet their individual needs. Participants' feedback was used to refine the prototype's information architecture, design and content. Two meta‐inferences were generated and recommend:

Comprehensive pre‐operative TKR education and prehabilitation support should be rapidly accessible in digital and non‐digital formats.

Pre‐operative TKR digital interventions should employ computer‐ and self‐tailoring to account for patients' individual needs and preferences.

Conclusions

Integrating evidence, theory and stakeholders' perspectives enabled the development of a promising VKS digital intervention for patients awaiting TKR. The findings suggest future research evaluating the VKS is warranted and provide recommendations for optimising pre‐operative TKR care.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) was central throughout the project. For example, PPI representatives contributed to the project planning, were valued members of the Project Advisory Group, had key roles in developing the VKS prototype and helped disseminate the project findings.
Training dental hygiene students to care for patients with disabilities
Authors: Spolarich Ann Eshenaur , Gohlke Ellen , Fallone Karen , Bay R. Curtis
Published: August 2023

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a novel training programme on dental hygiene students' knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about caring for individuals with disabilities.

Methods

A mixed methods approach was used. Students from five dental hygiene programmes based at community colleges completed a two‐hour didactic training session to supplement their existing special care dentistry coursework. Students completed an original 14‐item pretest and posttest before and after the training that assessed attitudes and beliefs, and two validated posttests that assessed knowledge. Afterwards, students completed a clinical rotation in an advanced care dental clinic at a local academic institution, gaining hands‐on experience with equipment and patient treatment. Descriptive statistics were used to report training scores, types of services rendered, and modifications to treatment. Student comments about their experiences were assessed using thematic analysis.

Results

Two hundred and ninety‐four students completed didactic training, and 261 completed clinical rotations. Posttest scores indicated positive improvements in knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. All students provided direct patient care. Sixty‐nine percent treated patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities; 75% placed silver diamine fluoride or fluoride varnish. Altered patient positioning was used by 70.5%. Most students (95.4%) reported that their experience positively changed their attitudes towards caring for patients with disabilities in the future. Eight themes emerged, notably increased comfort and confidence, a willingness and desire to treat patients, the acquisition of new skills, and clinician behaviours of empathy and compassion towards others.

Conclusion

Training can help prepare dental hygiene students with the confidence and skills to address the oral health needs of individuals with disabilities.
Can we playfully measure cognitive ability? Construct‐related validity and applicant reactions
Authors: Ohlms Marie L. , Melchers Klaus G. , Kanning Uwe P.
Published: August 2023

We developed a game‐based assessment (GBA) measuring cognitive ability for use in personnel selection and examined its construct‐related validity. Moreover, applicant reactions toward this GBA were compared with a paper‐pencil‐based ability test. Both assessment tools were designed to measure verbal, numerical, and figural ability. N = 183 participants completed the GBA, the paper‐pencil test, and questions capturing applicant reactions and personality. We found a strong positive correlation of 0.51 between the overall GBA and paper‐pencil test scores, showing evidence for its construct‐related validity. Applicant reactions toward the GBA were consistently worse compared with the paper‐pencil test. Furthermore, males and individuals with more video game experience held more positive perceptions than females and individuals with less video game experience.
Outcome of an elective readmission policy in patients receiving acute myeloid leukaemia consolidation therapy and implications for an outpatient management programme
Authors: Grigg Andrew , Prabahran Ashvind , Donati Vanessa , Wong Eric , Mason Kate
Published: August 2023

Safe outpatient management of acute leukaemia consolidation cycles may enable substantial savings in admission costs. Safety involves the prompt administration of antibiotics in patients with neutropenic fever. Our unit in a metropolitan tertiary referral hospital analysed a cohort of patients spanning a 10‐year period, with two key observations: (i) a high proportion of patients living a substantial distance from hospital and (ii) the high incidence and generally prompt onset of fever after severe neutropenia, suggesting this broad applicability of this approach is unfeasible without addressing travel issues and potentially reducing and/or delaying neutropenic fever with prophylactic antibiotics.
Machine learning models automate classification of penicillin adverse drug reaction labels
Authors: Inglis Joshua M. , Bacchi Stephen , Troelnikov Alexander , Smith William , Shakib Sepehr
Published: August 2023

There is a growing interest in the appropriate evaluation of penicillin adverse drug reaction (ADR) labels. We have developed machine learning models for classifying penicillin ADR labels using free‐text reaction descriptions, and here report external and practical validation. The models performed comparably with expert criteria for the categorisation of allergy or intolerance and identification of high‐risk allergies. These models have practical applications in detecting individuals suitable for penicillin ADR evaluation. Implementation studies are required.
Scedosporium species and Lomentospora prolificans fungaemia is uniformly fatal in patients with haematological malignancy
Authors: Stewart Adam G. , Heney Claire , Paterson David L. , Harris Patrick N. A. , Edwards Felicity , Laupland Kevin B.
Published: August 2023

Scedosporium and Lomentospora species are environmental moulds that are virulent in immunocompromised hosts and rarely cause bloodstream infection (BSI). Patients with Scedosporium and Lomentospora species BSI were identified by the state public laboratory service in Queensland, Australia, over a 20‐year period. Twenty‐two incident episodes occurred among 21 residents; one patient had a second episode 321 days following the first. Of these, 18 were Lomentospora prolificans, three were Scedosporium apiospermum complex and one was a nonspeciated Scedosporium species. Seventeen (81%) patients died during their index admission, and all‐cause mortality at 30, 90 and 365 days was 73%, 82% and 91% respectively. All 20 patients with haematological malignancy died within 365 days of follow‐up with a median time to death of 9 days (interquartile range, 6–20 days) following diagnoses of BSI.
Mental health nurses' experience of resilience during COVID‐19: A qualitative inquiry
Authors: Bui Minh Viet , McInnes Elizabeth , Ennis Gary , Foster Kim
Published: August 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic created unprecedented demands and additional stress for nurses in mental health settings. There is no prior evidence on nurses' experience of building and maintaining resilience in the context of work during COVID‐19. The aim of this study was to explore the experience and impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the resilience of nurses in mental health settings. Data from semi‐structured interviews with 20 nurses from an Australian mental health service were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Four main themes were generated: experiencing significant disruptions; making sense of shared chaos; having professional commitment; and growing through the challenges. Nurses' practice and teamwork were disrupted by COVID‐19 related changes to care models and infection prevention policies. They successfully adjusted by having awareness of self and others' emotions, using mental and emotional self‐regulatory strategies, engaging in self‐care, using ‘bricolage’ to create different ways to provide care, and having mutually supportive relationships. Nurses connected to their sense of purpose and professional commitment to fuel their therapeutic work and sustain care delivery. They experienced personal and professional growth with an increased understanding of their strengths and resilience. In the post‐pandemic period, although the challenges presented by the pandemic have lessened, there are ongoing negative impacts on nurses' wellbeing. To maintain and strengthen their wellbeing and practice, the findings indicate the importance of professional development in emotional regulation skills, and strategies to strengthen self‐care and build collegial relationships in teams. Resilience education can be implemented to support nurses' resilient practice skills.
RETRACTED: Prevalence of surgical site infection and risk factors in patients after foot and ankle surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cheng Jiaguo , Zhang Luping , Zhang Jing , Asadi Kamran , Farzan Ramyar
Published: August 2023

The present systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of surgical site infection (SSI) and related factors in patients after foot and ankle surgery. A comprehensive, systematic search was conducted in different international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database (SID) using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as ‘Prevalence’, ‘Surgical wound infection’, ‘Surgical site infection’ and ‘Orthopaedics’ from the earliest to 1 June 2023. The appraisal tool for cross‐sectional studies (AXIS tool) evaluates the quality of the included studies. A total of 10 447 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery participated in nine studies. The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients who underwent foot and ankle surgery was reported in nine studies was 4.2% (95% CI: 2.4%–7.2%; I2 = 96.793%; p < 0.001). The odds ratio of SSI prevalence in men was higher than that of women and was significant (OR: 1.335; 95% CI: 1.106–1.612; Z = 3.009; p = 0.003). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with hindfoot fracture sites reported in five studies was 4.9% (95% CI: 2.6%–8.9%; I2 = 90.768%; p < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) reported in six studies was 9.1% (95% CI: 5.6%–14.6%; I2 = 73.957%; p = 0.002). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with hypertension (HTN) reported in five studies was 5.5% (95% CI: 2.5%–11.6%; I2 = 91.346%; p < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with tobacco use reported in eight studies was 6.6% (95% CI: 4.1%–10.4%; I2 = 85.379%; p < 0.001). In general, the existing differences in the prevalence of SSI after foot and ankle surgery in different studies can be based on different risk factors such as comorbidities and gender. Therefore, it is suggested to design appropriate interventions to reduce SSI in these patients.
Ecological implications of fish removal: Insights from gut‐content analysis of roach (Rutilus rutilus) and European perch (Perca fluviatilis) in a eutrophic shallow lake
Authors: Berthelsen Andreas S. , Skov Christian , Søndergaard Martin , Larsen Martin H. , Lauridsen Torben L.
Published: August 2023

Large reductions in fish biomass are common both as a method of managing lake ecosystems by fish removals (biomanipulation) and as naturally occurring fish kills. To further understand how fish reductions change feeding patterns of fish, we studied the diets of small‐ to medium‐sized roach (Rutilus rutilus) and European perch (Perca fluviatilis) on a monthly basis using gut‐content analysis during an 18‐month period before and after a whole‐lake fish removal in a eutrophic shallow lake. Further, we performed in‐depth analyses of zoobenthos communities of the profundal and littoral zones, as well as analysed the zooplankton community in the littoral and pelagic parts of the lake to estimate abundance and biomass of potential diet items. We found that, in general, there was a trend toward increased zoobenthivory in both species and among all‐sized fish after fish removal, regardless of prior diet preference. Reduced piscivory among larger perch (>150 mm) and reduced zooplanktivory among smaller perch and roach (<150 mm) were also observed. Moreover, during a short period of high zooplankton biomass after fish removal, both perch and roach (all sizes) shifted their diet toward daphnids, which likely caused a decrease in daphnid population. We suggest that such change toward periodical zooplanktivory across fish species and size groups may lead to unexpectedly high top‐down control by fish after lake restoration by fish removal.
Receptor–ligand interaction controls microglial chemotaxis and amelioration of Alzheimer's disease pathology
Authors: Lau Shun‐Fat , Fu Amy K. Y. , Ip Nancy Y.
Published: August 2023

Microglia maintain brain homeostasis through their ability to survey and phagocytose danger‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). In Alzheimer's disease (AD), microglial phagocytic clearance regulates the turnover of neurotoxic DAMPs including amyloid beta (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau. To mediate DAMP clearance, microglia express a repertoire of surface receptors to sense DAMPs; the activation of these receptors subsequently triggers a chemotaxis‐to‐phagocytosis functional transition in microglia. Therefore, the interaction between microglial receptors and DAMPs plays a critical role in controlling microglial DAMP clearance and AD pathogenesis. However, there is no comprehensive overview on how microglial sensome receptors interact with DAMPs and regulate various microglial functions, including chemotaxis and phagocytosis. In this review, we discuss the important axes of receptor–ligand interaction that control different microglial functions and their roles in AD pathogenesis. First, we summarize how the accumulation and structural changes of DAMPs trigger microglial functional impairment, including impaired DAMP clearance and aberrant synaptic pruning, in AD. Then, we discuss the important receptor–ligand axes that restore microglial DAMP clearance in AD and aging. These findings suggest that targeting microglial chemotaxis—the first critical step of the microglial chemotaxis‐to‐phagocytosis state transition—can promote microglial DAMP clearance in AD. Thus, our review highlights the importance of microglial chemotaxis in promoting microglial clearance activity in AD. Further detailed investigations are essential to identify the molecular machinery that controls microglial chemotaxis in AD.

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Effect of social class on personal control beliefs
Authors: John Melvin , Boileau Lucia L.‐A. , Bless Herbert
Published: August 2023

Objective

This research investigated the effect of social class on personal control beliefs.

Background

Differences in personal control beliefs serve as a central theoretical explanation for social class differences in cognition, emotion, and behavior. However, prior empirical research has not yet conclusively demonstrated that personal control beliefs differ between social classes.

Method

Across four studies (total N = 138,417), we investigated the link between social class and personal control beliefs with well‐established measures of social class (e.g., ISEI, McArthur Scale),representative samples, and data that allow for causal conclusions (e.g., experimental, and longitudinal data).

Results

We found that (a) higher social class was associated with higher personal control beliefs across 60 countries. Furthermore, we observed that (b) higher social class of parents was associated with higher personal control beliefs in their children, and that (c) experimentally induced higher (vs. lower) social class led to increases (vs. decreases) of personal control beliefs.

Conclusions

Individuals from lower social classes consistently have weaker personal control beliefs than individuals from upper social classes. Social class differences in this fundamental personality characteristic are bound to have important consequences in various life domains (e.g., psychological and physical well‐being, and academic success).
Monopolistic competition, rising markups, and optimal taxation of participation
Authors: Gürer Eren
Published: August 2023

This study explores the optimal taxation of participation within a monopolistically competitive product market that exhibits increasing markups. Individual labor supply responds along both intensive and extensive margins. The government simultaneously optimizes a nonlinear Mirrleesian income tax scheme, a flat profit tax rate, and a flat unemployment benefit. It is shown analytically that the monetized welfare cost of an increase in unemployment benefit is higher under monopolistic competition compared to under perfect competition. Nevertheless, numerical simulations suggest that the optimal unemployment benefit increases in response to greater markups when the government simultaneously optimizes all of its tools. The reason is that, along with a higher profit tax, rising markups require a decline in marginal income taxes. Lower marginal income taxes relieve the extensive margin distortions and accommodate an increase in the unemployment benefit. Accordingly, optimal nominal participation taxes remain approximately unchanged for the lower half of the ability distribution. For the upper half, the decline in income taxes outweighs the increase in the unemployment benefit, leading to lower optimal nominal participation taxes.
Microscopic analysis of gluten network development under shear load—combining confocal laser scanning microscopy with rheometry
Authors: Vidal Leonhard Maria , Ewigmann Hans , Schuster Clemens , Alpers Thekla , Scherf Katharina Anne , Jekle Mario , Becker Thomas
Published: August 2023

A comprehensive in‐situ analysis of the developing gluten network during kneading is still a gap in cereal science. With an in‐line microscale shear kneading and measuring setup in a conventional rheometer, a first step was taken in previous works toward fully comprehensible gluten network development evaluation. In this work, this setup was extended by an in‐situ optical analysis of the evolving gluten network. By connecting a laser scanning microscope with a conventional rheometer, the evaluation of the rheological and optical protein network evolution was possible. An image processing tool for analyzing the protein network was applied for evaluating the gluten network development in a wheat dough during the shear kneading process. This network evaluation was possible without interruption or invasive sample transfer comparing it to former approaches. The shear kneading system was able to produce a fully developed dough matrix within 125% of the reference dough development time in a classical kneader. The calculated network connectivity values from frequency testing ranged over all samples was in good agreement with traditional kneaded wheat dough just over peak consistency.
MBOAT7 in liver and extrahepatic diseases
Authors: Caddeo Andrea , Spagnuolo Rocco , Maurotti Samantha
Published: August 2023

MBOAT7 is a protein anchored to endomembranes by several transmembrane domains. It has a catalytic dyad involved in remodelling of phosphatidylinositol with polyunsaturated fatty acids. Genetic variants in the MBOAT7 gene have been associated with the entire spectrum of non‐alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD), recently redefined as metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and, lately, steatotic liver disease (SLD), and to an increasing number of extrahepatic conditions. In this review, we will (a) elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which MBOAT7 loss‐of‐function predisposes to MAFLD and neurodevelopmental disorders and (b) discuss the growing number of genetic studies linking MBOAT7 to hepatic and extrahepatic diseases. MBOAT7 complete loss of function causes severe changes in brain development resulting in several neurological manifestations. Lower MBOAT7 hepatic expression at both the mRNA and protein levels, due to missense nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the locus containing the MBOAT7 gene, affects specifically metabolic and viral diseases in the liver from simple steatosis to hepatocellular carcinoma, and potentially COVID‐19 disease. This body of evidence shows that phosphatidylinositol remodelling is a key factor for human health.
Corridor‐based approach with spatial cross‐validation reveals scale‐dependent effects of geographic distance, human footprint and canopy cover on grizzly bear genetic connectivity
Authors: Palm Eric C. , Landguth Erin L. , Holden Zachary A. , Day Casey C. , Lamb Clayton T. , Frame Paul F. , Morehouse Andrea T. , Mowat Garth , Proctor Michael F. , Sawaya Michael A. , Stenhouse Gordon , Whittington Jesse , Zeller Katherine A.
Published: August 2023

Understanding how human infrastructure and other landscape attributes affect genetic differentiation in animals is an important step for identifying and maintaining dispersal corridors for these species. We built upon recent advances in the field of landscape genetics by using an individual‐based and multiscale approach to predict landscape‐level genetic connectivity for grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) across ~100,000 km2 in Canada's southern Rocky Mountains. We used a genetic dataset with 1156 unique individuals genotyped at nine microsatellite loci to identify landscape characteristics that influence grizzly bear gene flow at multiple spatial scales and map predicted genetic connectivity through a matrix of rugged terrain, large protected areas, highways and a growing human footprint. Our corridor‐based modelling approach used a machine learning algorithm that objectively parameterized landscape resistance, incorporated spatial cross validation and variable selection and explicitly accounted for isolation by distance. This approach avoided overfitting, discarded variables that did not improve model performance across withheld test datasets and spatial predictive capacity compared to random cross‐validation. We found that across all spatial scales, geographic distance explained more variation in genetic differentiation in grizzly bears than landscape variables. Human footprint inhibited connectivity across all spatial scales, while open canopies inhibited connectivity at the broadest spatial scale. Our results highlight the negative effect of human footprint on genetic connectivity, provide strong evidence for using spatial cross‐validation in landscape genetics analyses and show that multiscale analyses provide additional information on how landscape variables affect genetic differentiation.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus inhibits osteoclast differentiation by suppressing the TLR2/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Fu Jingfei , Jia Lu , Wu Lili , Jiang Yiyang , Zhao Rui , Du Juan , Guo Lijia , Zhang Chen , Xu Junji , Liu Yi
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the role of ultrasonicated Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract in osteoclast differentiation and its underlying mechanism, providing new strategies for the treatment of periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Osteoclasts were induced using macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and receptor activator for nuclear factor‐κB ligand. Lactobacillus rhamnosus extracts were obtained via ultrasonic crushing and ultracentrifugation. The effects of the LGG extract on osteoclast differentiation were evaluated, and the related signaling pathways were examined using western blotting. A mouse periodontitis model was established, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract was injected into the gingival sulcus to evaluate the inhibitory effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract on alveolar bone resorption.

Results

At 50 μg/mL, Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract inhibited osteoclast differentiation with no effect on apoptosis and proliferation. This phenomenon was achieved by deactivating the NF‐κB/c‐Fos/NFATc1 signaling pathway through toll‐like receptor 2. The in vivo results showed that the local injection of Lactobacillus rhamnosus extract suppressed osteoclast differentiation and alveolar bone resorption.

Conclusion

The ultrasonicated extract of Lactobacillus rhamnosus inhibited osteoclast differentiation by suppressing the activation of the NF‐κB/c‐Fos/NFATc1 pathway. Furthermore, it inhibited the destruction of the alveolar bone, providing a new strategy for the use of probiotics in the treatment of periodontitis.
The scientization of public policy and politics: A new approach to conceptualizing and identifying the phenomenon
Authors: Roberts Alex N.
Published: August 2023

We know that deep scientization (DS)—the misrepresentation of political issues as technical/scientific ones best handled by experts—can unduly limit public deliberation and lead to policy misdesign. Yet, tools for investigating DS remain lacking. This article develops a new approach to diagnosing DS that works by identifying where experts have used their discretion to construct policy claims that contravene existing, shared epistemic standards. This approach's value is demonstrated through a case study of U.S. chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) policy. The study shows that, whereas government experts originally developed CFS as a research construct, they have since used their discretionary power to recast CFS as a serious disease requiring new policy interventions. This epistemically unjustified transformation of CFS has limited public discussion of important value‐laden policy questions and arguably yielded poor policy outcomes. The approach developed here can also be used to uncover DS in other policy areas.

Related Articles

Carlsson, Lars. 2017. “Policy Science at an Impasse: A Matter of Conceptual Stretching?” Politics & Policy 45(2): 148–68. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12196.

Lemire, Sebastian, Laura R. Peck, and Allan Porowski. 2023. “The Evolution of Systematic Evidence Reviews: Past and Future Developments and Their Implications for Policy Analysis.” Politics & Policy 51(3): 373–96. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12532.

Luján, José Luis. 2023. “Evidence‐based Policies: Lessons from Regulatory Science.” Politics & Policy 51(4). https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12543.
The antifungal activity of trans‐cinnamic acid and its priming effect in apple in response to Valsa mali
Authors: Li Chunrong , Jing Yuanyuan , Cheng Liang , Si Zeguang , Mou Ziyan , Niu Dongshan , Ma Fengwang , Liu Changhai
Published: August 2023

Valsa mali causes Valsa canker, one of the most destructive diseases on apple trees, leading to severe losses for the apple industry in China. Considering the development of fungicide resistance and the harmful effects of chemical residues, it is urgent to identify alternatives to control this disease. Trans‐cinnamic acid (t‐CA), a compound with good antibacterial, antitumour and anti‐inflammatory properties, is widely used in food, medicine and other industries. However, the antifungal activity of t‐CA against V. mali and its regulatory role in apple defence against biotic stresses are unclear. Based on a metabolomic assay, we found that Malus yunnaensis (Valsa canker‐resistant) twigs infected with V. mali dramatically accumulated t‐CA. Exogenous application of t‐CA effectively inhibited V. mali growth on potato dextrose agar. The EC50 value of t‐CA inhibiting mycelial growth was 200 μg/mL. Malus prunifolia (Valsa canker‐susceptible) leaves and twigs pretreated with t‐CA had significantly enhanced V. mali resistance. The t‐CA application increased salicylic acid but reduced jasmonic acid levels in leaves and twigs. Moreover, the contents of phenolic acids and flavonoids increased in t‐CA‐treated samples. In addition, t‐CA increased the activities of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase, β‐1,3‐glucanase and chitinase. These results indicate that t‐CA plays a significant role in inhibiting V. mali growth and priming apple defence.
Temporal variation and risk factors associated with reproductive disorders in Hardhenu (Bos taurus × Bos indicus) dairy cattle
Authors: Pushpa  , Magotra Ankit , Patil C. S. , Bangar Y. C. , Sindhu Vikas , Chaudhary Pradeep , Garg Asha Rani
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to investigate the incidence and effect of non‐genetic factors on reproductive disorders in the Hardhenu cattle population over a period of 11 years (2010–2021). The study included a total of 1340 cattle for calculating the incidence of reproductive disorders and analysed the occurrence of different reproductive disorders. In the present study, retention of placenta had highest frequency, accounting for approximately 18.36% of the incidence, followed by repeater cows (11.19%), metritis (6.27%), dystocia (0.60%), anestrus (0.45%) and prolapse (0.37%). Chi‐square analysis revealed a significant relationship between the year and the incidence of reproductive disorders (p < .05). Logistic regression analysis of temporal variability of reproductive disorders was also analysed, with an increase in the odds from 2014 to 2020, peaking in 2017–2018 and 2018–2019. Logistic regression analysis showed that season and parity did not significantly influence the incidence of reproductive disorders. However, period of calving had a significant impact. Cows calving between 2008 and 2014 had a significantly lower odds ratio (0.13, 95% CI: 0.06–0.30), indicating a decreased risk, while those calving between 2014 and 2017 had a higher odds ratio (0.59, 95% CI: 0.38–0.90), suggesting an increased risk of reproductive disorders. Compared to parity 3, parity 1 (1.344, 95% CI: 0.869–2.08) and parity 2 (1.193, 95% CI: 0.768–1.851) showed highest odds ratio. Similarly, the odds ratio for winter (1.64, 95% CI: 0.93–2.89), summer (1.71, 95% CI: 0.89–3.26) and rainy season (1.64, 95% CI: 0.92–2.91) was higher as compared to autumn. The present results provided valuable insights into the incidence of various reproductive disorders and associated risk factors in Hardhenu cattle. These results can be utilized for targeted interventions to enhance reproductive health and overall productivity in dairy cattle.
Perfusion fluid‐related infections in liver transplant recipients: A 5‐year, single‐center, retrospective study
Authors: Lombardi Andrea , Renisi Giulia , Dondossola Daniele , Palomba Emanuele , Del Prete Luca , Viero Giulia , Zefelippo Arianna , Azzarà Cecilia , Maccaro Angelo , Perali Carolina , Alagna Laura , Franchi Eloisa , Muscatello Antonio , Gori Andrea , Grasselli Giacomo , Donato Maria Francesca , Matinato Caterina , Caccamo Lucio , Antonelli Barbara , Bandera Alessandra
Published: August 2023

Background

Perfusion fluid (PRF) is employed in liver transplantation (LTx) to maintain graft viability. Still, it represents a new potential way of infection transmission in LTx recipients (LTRs). Currently, no systematic research has investigated this topic.

Methods

Five‐year single‐center retrospective study conducted on LTRs from January 2017 to December 2021. We analyzed the incidence of positive PRF culture (PRF+) and perfusion fluid‐related infections (PRF‐RI) and their associated factors. We also assessed 1‐year mortality, both overall and infection‐related.

Results

Overall, 234 LTx were included. PRF+ were found in 31/234 (13.2%) LTx for a total of 37 isolates, with >1 isolate identified in 5 (2.1%) cases. High‐risk microorganisms (Enterobacterales 13/37, Enterococcus spp. 4/37, S. aureus 3/37, P. aeruginosa 2/37) were isolated in 25/37 (67.6%) LTRs, the remaining being coagulase‐negative staphylococci (12/37, 32.4%). Antimicrobial prophylaxis was administered to all LTRs, always active against the isolate even if suboptimal in 19 cases (61.3%). PRF‐RI developed in 4/234 LTx (1.7%), and prophylaxis was considered suboptimal in 2/4 of them. The isolation of >1 microorganism in PRF culture was associated with an increased risk of developing PRF‐RI (OR 37.5 [95%CI 2.6–548.4], p = .01). PRF‐RI were associated with longer ICU stays (p = .005) and higher 1‐year mortality, both overall and related to infections (p = .001).

Conclusion

Despite PRF+ being infrequent, only a minority of patients develops PRF‐RI. Nonetheless, once occurred, PRF‐RI seems to increase morbidity and mortality rates.

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Diversity of the volatilome and the fruit size and shape in European woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca)
Authors: Urrutia María , Meco Victoriano , Rambla José Luis , Martín‐Pizarro Carmen , Pillet Jeremy , Andrés Javier , Sánchez‐Sevilla José F. , Granell Antonio , Hytönen Timo , Posé David
Published: August 2023

Woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca subsp. vesca) is a wild relative of cultivated strawberry (F. × ananassa) producing small and typically conical fruits with an intense flavor and aroma. The wild strawberry species, F. vesca, is a rich resource of genetic and metabolic variability, but its diversity remains largely unexplored and unexploited. In this study, we aim for an in‐depth characterization of the fruit complex volatilome by GC–MS as well as the fruit size and shape using a European germplasm collection that represents the continental diversity of the species. We report characteristic volatilome footprints and fruit phenotypes of specific geographical areas. Thus, this study uncovers phenotypic variation linked to geographical distribution that will be valuable for further genetic studies to identify candidate genes or develop markers linked to volatile compounds or fruit shape and size traits.