bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co‐consuming green tea with raloxifene decreases raloxifene systemic exposure in healthy adult participants
Authors: Clarke John D. , Judson Sabrina M. , Tian Dan‐Dan , Kirby Trevor O. , Tanna Rakshit S. , Matula‐Péntek Adrienn , Horváth Miklós , Layton Matthew E. , White John R. , Cech Nadja B. , Thummel Kenneth E. , McCune Jeannine S. , Shen Danny D. , Paine Mary F.
Published: August 2023

Green tea is a popular beverage worldwide. The abundant green tea catechin (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a potent in vitro inhibitor of intestinal UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) activity (Ki ~2 μM). Co‐consuming green tea with intestinal UGT drug substrates, including raloxifene, could increase systemic drug exposure. The effects of a well‐characterized green tea on the pharmacokinetics of raloxifene, raloxifene 4′‐glucuronide, and raloxifene 6‐glucuronide were evaluated in 16 healthy adults via a three‐arm crossover, fixed‐sequence study. Raloxifene (60 mg) was administered orally with water (baseline), with green tea for 1 day (acute), and on the fifth day after daily green tea administration for 4 days (chronic). Unexpectedly, green tea decreased the geometric mean green tea/baseline raloxifene AUC0–96h ratio to ~0.60 after both acute and chronic administration, which is below the predefined no‐effect range (0.75–1.33). Lack of change in terminal half‐life and glucuronide‐to‐raloxifene ratios indicated the predominant mechanism was not inhibition of intestinal UGT. One potential mechanism includes inhibition of intestinal transport. Using established transfected cell systems, a green tea extract normalized to EGCG inhibited 10 of 16 transporters tested (IC50, 0.37–12 μM). Another potential mechanism, interruption by green tea of gut microbe‐mediated raloxifene reabsorption, prompted a follow‐up exploratory clinical study to evaluate the potential for a green tea–gut microbiota–drug interaction. No clear mechanisms were identified. Overall, results highlight that improvements in current models and methods used to predict UGT‐mediated drug interactions are needed. Informing patients about the risk of co‐consuming green tea with raloxifene may be considered.
Genetic scores associated with favourable and unfavourable adiposity have consistent effect on metabolic profile and disease risk across diverse ethnic groups
Authors: Ahmed Altayeb , Justo Stephen , Yaghootkar Hanieh
Published: August 2023

Aim

This study aims to investigate the associations between genetic risk scores (GRS) for favourable and unfavourable adiposity and a wide range of adiposity‐related outcomes across diverse populations.

Methods

We utilised previously identified variants associated with favourable (36 variants) and unfavourable (38 variants) adiposity to create GRS for each adiposity phenotype. We used summary statistics from 39 outcomes generated by the Pan‐UKB genome‐wide association studies Version 0.3, incorporating covariates such as age, sex and principal components in six populations: European (n = 420,531), African (6636), American (980), Central/South Asian (8876), East Asian (2709) and Middle Eastern (1599).

Results

The favourable adiposity GRS was associated with a healthy metabolic profile, including lower risk of type 2 diabetes, lower liver enzyme levels, lower blood pressure, higher HDL‐cholesterol, lower triglycerides, higher apolipoprotein A, lower apolipoprotein B, higher testosterone, lower calcium and lower insulin‐like growth factor 1 generally consistently across all the populations. In contrast, the unfavourable adiposity GRS was associated with an adverse metabolic profile, including higher risk of type 2 diabetes, higher random glucose levels, higher HbA1c, lower HDL‐cholesterol, higher triglycerides, higher liver enzyme levels, lower testosterone, and higher C‐reactive protein generally consistently across all the populations.

Conclusion

The study provides evidence that the genetic scores associated with favourable and unfavourable adiposity have consistent effects on metabolic profiles and disease risk across diverse ethnic groups. These findings deepen our understanding of distinct adiposity subtypes and their impact on metabolic health.
YouTube™ as a source of tooth avulsion information: A video analysis study
Authors: Loureiro Jéssica Muniz , Chaves Victor Carvalho Vitolo , Risso Patrícia A. , Magno Marcela Baraúna , Maia Lucianne Cople , Pithon Matheus de Melo
Published: August 2023

Background/Aim

Evaluate the informative content in tooth avulsion videos intended for dentists available on YouTube™ and analyse their compliance with the International Association of Dental Traumatology (IADT) guidelines 2020.

Materials and Methods

Google Trends was used to identify the most searched term for tooth avulsion. Tooth avulsion‐related videos in Brazilian Portuguese intended for dentists were searched on YouTube™ with a 12‐month filter. Two raters reviewed these videos to extract their features and evaluate and qualify them with two 9‐point checklists based on the IADT 2020 guidelines. The emergency steps for tooth avulsion at the accident site were assessed before, during and after clinical management; each step received 1 point if present and 0 points if absent. The final score ranged from 0 to 9 points on each checklist (18 points total), and the total score was used to classify the videos as having poor, moderate or rich content. Reliability and video quality were evaluated by an adapted version of the DISCERN tool and global quality scale (GQS), respectively. The data were analysed with the Mann–Whitney U‐test, Pearson chi‐square test, and the Kappa statistic (p < .05).

Results

Of 60 videos, 8 were included. All were uploaded by dental professionals or undergraduate students; the average duration was 11 min (range: 0.40–65 min), and the average number of views was 56.75. Half the videos (50%) had maximum completeness scores for questions about emergency dentist referral before clinical management, and more than half (75%) had maximum completeness regarding the steps required during and after treatment. Rich videos had higher GQS scores (p = .049) without significant correlation.

Conclusions

Although most videos in Brazilian Portuguese were considered high‐quality according to the IADT checklist, half of them presented partial absence of information regarding orientations at the accident site.
The consequences of orthodontic extrusion on previously intruded permanent incisors—A retrospective study
Authors: Shalish Miriam , Abed Jawad , Keinan David , Slutzky‐Goldberg Iris
Published: August 2023

Aim

The aim of this study is to compare the adverse effects that occur after orthodontic extrusion of teeth that have been traumatically intruded with those of similar teeth that have not experienced any trauma.

Background

The outcome of incisors intrusion can be affected by the patient's age, extent of injury, root development, and malocclusion. Orthodontic extrusion is a potential solution, but it may also cause complications.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study of the effects of extrusion of traumatically intruded teeth was carried out. The study group included 21 teeth in 14 patients. The control group included 32 teeth in 10 patients that underwent orthodontic extrusion with no history of trauma. Patients' age, gender, and stage of root development were recorded. The severity of the intrusion was classified as mild (<3 mm), moderate (3‐6 mm), and severe (≥7 mm). A comparison of signs of pulp necrosis and root resorptions between the groups was made.

Results

The central incisor is the tooth that is most injured in 80.9% of cases. A majority of these incidents involve severe intrusion, which was found in 42.9% of cases. 90% of the traumatized teeth had already lost their vitality prior to orthodontic treatment. Various forms of root resorption were observed in the study group. In the control group, 31.2% of teeth showed signs of external root resorption, but no endodontic intervention was carried out during the follow‐up period, as these teeth remained vital.

Conclusions

Following intrusion, there is a high risk for root resorption and pulp necrosis. Orthodontic repositioning should be carried out with caution and mild force to prevent complications. Long‐term follow‐ups are required to ensure the best possible outcome.
Feasibility of peripheral blood stem cell collection from sickle cell trait donors with an intensified G‐CSF regimen
Authors: Mohrez Morad , Troeger Anja , Kleinschmidt Katharina , Alali Tarek Hanafee , Jakob Marcus , Brosig Andreas , Hähnel Viola , Kietz Silke , Offner Robert , Burkhardt Ralph , Corbacioglu Selim , Ahrens Norbert , Foell Juergen
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment for SCD and bone marrow from an HLA‐matched sibling is currently the standard of care. Haploidentical HSCT from a family donor with a TCR αβ/CD19 depleted graft (T‐haplo) is an increasingly successful alternative, which requires the generation of G‐CSF stimulated peripheral stem cell (PBSC) from haploidentical relatives. These sickle cell trait (SCT) donors reported to develop SCD‐related complications in conditions of severe stress.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, we compared the safety and efficacy of PBSC mobilization with a G‐CSF intensified mobilization regimen in SCT donors with a conventional G‐CSF mobilization regimen in healthy donors.

Results

The reported adverse events were similar during intensified G‐CSF mobilization, apheresis, and shortly after stem cell apheresis in SCT and control donors. In SCT and control donors, we were able to mobilize high yields of CD34+ stem cells and the harvested CD34+ cell count was comparable with control donors.

Conclusions

Peripheral stem cell mobilization using an intensified G‐CSF regimen is safe, and well tolerated among SCT donors. SCT donors are a valid alternative for collection of peripheral CD34+ stem cells for T‐cell‐depleted haploidentical stem cell transplantation.
Corollary discharge function in healthy controls: Evidence about self‐speech and external speech processing
Authors: Beño‐Ruiz‐de‐la‐Sierra Rosa M. , Arjona‐Valladares Antonio , Fondevila Estevez Sabela , Fernández‐Linsenbarth Inés , Díez Álvaro , Molina Vicente
Published: August 2023

As we speak, corollary discharge mechanisms suppress the auditory conscious perception of the self‐generated voice in healthy subjects. This suppression has been associated with the attenuation of the auditory N1 component. To analyse this corollary discharge phenomenon (agency and ownership), we registered the event‐related potentials of 42 healthy subjects. The N1 and P2 components were elicited by spoken vowels (talk condition; agency), by played‐back vowels recorded with their own voice (listen‐self condition; ownership) and by played‐back vowels recorded with an external voice (listen‐other condition). The N1 amplitude elicited by the talk condition was smaller compared with the listen‐self and listen‐other conditions. There were no amplitude differences in N1 between listen‐self and listen‐other conditions. The P2 component did not show differences between conditions. Additionally, a peak latency analysis of N1 and P2 components between the three conditions showed no differences. These findings corroborate previous results showing that the corollary discharge mechanisms dampen sensory responses to self‐generated speech (agency experience) and provide new neurophysiological evidence about the similarities in the processing of played‐back vowels with our own voice (ownership experience) and with an external voice.
Overcoming traditional ETL systems architectural problems using a service‐oriented approach
Authors: Oliveira Bruno , Oliveira Óscar , Belo Orlando
Published: August 2023

Developing analytical systems imposes several challenges related not only to the amount and heterogeneity of the involved data but also to the constant need to readapt and evolve to overcome new business challenges. Data are a determinant factor in the success of analytical and decision‐making applications, being its nature, availability, and quality, crucial aspects for planning and structuring populating analytical systems. Today's users are more demanding, requiring adaptable and flexible analytical applications, which impose serious challenges on extract‐transform‐load (ETL) systems design and development for ensuring flexible and robust data populating services, operating 24/7, and managing and processing large volumes of data. Thus, we should design and implement ETL processes using innovative and up‐to‐date approaches, having real application evidence. In this paper, we present a service‐oriented implementation for ETL design and development. We mapped and implemented some of the most conventional ETL processes in a service‐oriented architecture, to demonstrate the application and benefits that this kind of approach will provide to ETL systems project development.
Joint dynamics of stock returns and cash flows: A time‐varying present‐value framework
Authors: Yu Deshui , Yan Yayi
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes a novel time‐varying present‐value model to analyze the joint dynamics of stock returns and cash flows periodically. We use a nonparametric time‐varying vector autoregressive model to examine the economic implications of the time‐varying present‐value model. By conducting several nonparametric tests, we reject the stability of multivariate forecasting models and the null that stock returns and cash flows are simultaneously unpredictable in any given period. Additional bootstrap analyses show that under the null of unpredictable returns, dividend growth is highly predictable. Finally, the proposed time‐varying present‐value framework holds robustly for both the dividend–price ratio and the earnings–price ratio.
Comparison of halitosis according to herbal mouthwash containing Glycyrrhiza uralensis extract and saline mouthwash: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Kim Yu‐Rin , Nam Seoul‐Hee
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This study was conducted in order to determine the effect on halitosis and the antibacterial effect against halitosis‐causing bacteria of the mouthwash made of the natural material, Glycyrrhiza uralensis (G. uralensis) extract.

Materials and Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was conducted on 60 patients who visited M dental clinic located in Busan, South Korea, excluding those with systemic disease that may induce halitosis. There were 30 patients classified to the saline gargle group and the remaining 30 patients were classified to the G. uralensis extract gargle group. In addition, their level of halitosis and halitosis‐causing bacteria were measured. They visited the dental clinic on a fasted state at baseline before gargle application (Baseline), immediately after gargle application (Treatment) and 5 days after gargle application (After 5 Days). For clinical indicators, participants were tested for halitosis and bacteria immediately after waking up without brushing their teeth and without hydration.

Results

The prevalence of halitosis decreased in the G. uralensis extract gargle group compared to the saline gargle group at Treatment and After 5 Days. In cases with pseudo halitosis, there was a significant decrease in halitosis‐causing bacteria when G. uralensis extract gargle was applied (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

It was identified that using a mouthwash made with G. uralensis extract is effective for halitosis improvement and reduction of halitosis‐causing bacteria. Therefore, using a mouthwash containing G. uralensis extract, it will be effective in improving bad breath and oral hygiene will be possible.
Motivations for and outcomes of graduate education amongst dental hygienists: A pan‐Canadian study
Authors: Rock Leigha D. , Macdonald Lindsay K. , Compton Sharon M. , MacDonald Laura L. , Kanji Zul
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Motivations and career outcomes of dental hygienists with baccalaureate degrees have been recently reported; however, few studies have explored Canadian dental hygienists pursuing graduate education. There is limited evidence to inform career outcomes and motivating factors for advanced education, limiting knowledge of how professional outcomes have evolved alongside advancements in graduate program offerings. This study focused on understanding motivating factors to pursue graduate education and the professional outcomes of dental hygienists with graduate degrees.

Methods

This nested online anonymous survey was conducted between November and December 2021 with dental hygienists who graduated from one of four Canadian baccalaureate‐level dental hygiene degree programs and had further indicated that they were pursuing or had obtained additional graduate‐level education (n = 60). Participants were asked to report on any advanced graduate‐level education. Open‐ended questions on graduate degree education were analysed through thematic analysis.

Results

Motivations for pursuing graduate degrees were influenced by personal and professional preferences. Master's degree recipients cited expanded career opportunities, alternate interests, convenience, and dissatisfaction with/desire to leave clinical practice as major motivators. Doctoral degree holding dental hygienists identified expanded/alternate career opportunities as major motivation but also cited program convenience as an influencer. The availability of distance and flexible programming is a novel finding that positively influences the pursuit of advanced education.

Conclusion

Dental hygienists are pursuing graduate education to expand their scope of knowledge and create new career opportunities. Graduate degree programs that accommodate work–life balance through flexible and online offerings are very attractive to dental hygienists.
Using the learning disability screening questionnaire to help identify people with an intellectual disability in homeless services
Authors: McKenzie Karen , Murray George , Metcalfe Dale , Robson Ruth , Kaczmar Matt , Shirley Alex
Published: August 2023

Background

We explored the accuracy of using the learning disability screening questionnaire (LDSQ) in services for people experiencing homelessness in the United Kingdom.

Method

We examined the concordance between the LDSQ outcomes and assessments of intellectual disability. Seventy adults experiencing homelessness completed the LDSQ. Staff completed the LDSQ and a measure of adaptive functioning for 38 of this group. Nine participants received an intellectual assessment.

Results

Sensitivity and specificity for the LDSQ when completed by staff was 83% and 96% respectively and 50% and 92% when completed by the individual. Seven people had intellectual and adaptive functioning in the intellectual disability range.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the LDSQ would be an appropriate and beneficial screening tool to use within services for people experiencing homelessness. More accurate results would be likely if it were completed by staff.
Blackspotted rockskippers (Entomacrodus striatus) avoid refuges with conspecifics
Authors: Brainard Miranda K. , Swango Caitlyn P. , Houglan Paityn M. , Londraville Richard L.
Published: August 2023

During an escape from predators, many animals need to evaluate and choose a refuge within seconds. We investigated refuge choice in the amphibious blackspotted rockskipper, Entomacrodus striatus, in Moorea, French Polynesia. Rockskippers are small combtooth blennies that inhabit rocky beaches and jetties at the aquatic/terrestrial interface. They are conspicuous for their eponymous jumping to/from refugia among rocks when threatened. We have observed refugia with both multiple conspecifics and solitary fish in the field, and here tested whether fish choose refugia that are occupied by conspecifics in the laboratory. E. striatus chose unoccupied refugia on the opposite side of the experimental tank in 11/14 trials, a significantly greater number of times than they chose occupied refugia. In 3/14 trials, fish chose occupied refugia, indicating that refuge occupation does not prohibit their use by conspecifics. We hypothesize that chemical stress signals from the occupying fish deter most fish from choosing the same refuge.
Glycemic control and diabetes complications across health status categories in older adults treated with insulin or insulin secretagogues: The Diabetes & Aging Study
Authors: Lipska Kasia J. , Huang Elbert S. , Liu Jennifer Y. , Parker Melissa M. , Laiteerapong Neda , Grant Richard W. , Moffet Howard H. , Karter Andrew J.
Published: August 2023

Background

For older adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) treated with insulin or sulfonylureas, Endocrine Society guideline recommends HbA1c between 7% to <7.5% for those in good health, 7.5% to <8% for those in intermediate health, and 8% to <8.5% for those in poor health. Our aim was to examine associations between attained HbA1c below, within (reference), or above recommended target range and risk of complication or mortality.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of adults ≥65 years old with T2D treated with insulin or sulfonylureas from an integrated healthcare delivery system. Cox proportional hazards models of complications during 2019 were adjusted for sociodemographic and clinical variables. Primary outcome was a combined outcome of any microvascular or macrovascular event, severe hypoglycemia, or mortality during 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Among 63,429 patients (mean age: 74.2 years, 46.8% women), 8773 (13.8%) experienced a complication. Complication risk was significantly elevated for patients in good health (n = 16,895) whose HbA1c was above (HR 1.97, 95% CI 1.62–2.41) or below (HR 1.29, 95% CI 1.02–1.63) compared to within recommended range. Among those in intermediate health (n = 30,129), complication risk was increased for those whose HbA1c was above (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.30–1.60) but not those below the recommended range (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.89–1.09). Among those in poor health (n = 16,405), complication risk was not significantly different for those whose HbA1c was below (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.89–1.09) or above (HR 0.96, 95% CI 0.88–1.06) recommended range.

Conclusions

For older adults with T2D in good health, HbA1c below or above the recommended range was associated with significantly elevated complication risk. However, for those in poor health, achieving specific HbA1c levels may not be helpful in reducing the risk of complications.
Function and regulation of cis P‐tau in the pathogenesis and treatment of conventional and nonconventional tauopathies
Authors: Wang Ruizhi , Lu Kun Ping , Zhou Xiao Zhen
Published: August 2023

Conventional tauopathies are a group of disease characterized by tau inclusions in the brains, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Pick's disease (PiD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal degeneration (CBD), and certain types of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), among which AD is the most prevalent. Extensive post‐translational modifications, especially hyperphosphorylation, and abnormal aggregation of tau protein underlie tauopathy. Cis–trans isomerization of protein plays an important role in protein folding, function, and degradation, which is regulated by peptidyl‐proline isomerases (PPIases). Peptidyl‐prolyl cis–trans isomerase NIMA‐interacting 1 (Pin1), the only PPIase found to isomerize Pro following phosphorylated Ser or Thr residues, alters phosphorylated tau protein conformation at pT231‐P motif. The cis P‐tau but not trans P‐tau serves as an early driver of multiple neurodegenerative disease, encompassing AD, traumatic brain injury (TBI), chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), and vascular contributions to cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). Cis but not trans P‐tau is resistant to protein dephosphorylation and degradation, and also prone to protein aggregation. Cis P‐tau loses its ability to stabilize microtubule, causing and spreading tauopathy mainly in axons, a pathological process called cistauosis. The conformation‐specific monoclonal antibody that targets only the cis P‐tau serves as a very early diagnosis method and a potential treatment of not only conventional tauopathies but also nonconventional tauopathies such as VCID, with clinical trials ongoing. Notably, cis P‐tau antibody is the only clinical‐stage Alzheimer's therapeutic that has shown the efficacy in animal models of not only AD but also TBI and stroke, which are very early stages of dementia. Here we review the identification and pathological consequences of cis pt231‐tau, the role of its regulator Pin1, as well as the clinical implication of cis pt231‐tau conformation‐specific antibody in conventional and nonconventional tauopathies.

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The evolution of family policies and couples' housework division after childbirth in Germany, 1994–2019
Authors: Zoch Gundula , Heyne Stefanie
Published: August 2023

Objective

We examine how the re‐traditionalization effect of childbirth on couples' division of housework has evolved over time as a result of major family policy change.

Background

Supportive family policies are associated with a more egalitarian division of labor. However, it remains unclear how a country's transition from a modernized male breadwinner regime that supports maternal care to family policies that promote maternal employment and paternal caregiving change couples' gender‐typical division of housework in the long run.

Method

We use representative survey data from the German Socio‐Economic Panel (1994–2019, N = 14,648) and estimate the re‐traditionalization effect of childbirth on mothers' absolute and relative time‐use on housework over four policy periods with linear fixed‐effects regression models.

Results

Across all periods, mothers took on larger absolute and relative levels of housework after childbirth, with a more pronounced and persistent gender‐typical division in West than in East Germany. However, mothers spent somewhat less absolute and relative time on housework in recent periods with stronger levels of de‐familiarizing and dual‐earner/dual‐carer policies than in earlier periods with policies supporting maternal caregiving.

Conclusion

We find somewhat smaller and less persistent re‐traditionalization effects of childbirth in more supportive work–family policy periods. In sum, the small changes illustrate that even in contexts of enormous policy change, progress toward a less gender‐typical division of housework has been slow and rather small.
Prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in obesity patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Minervini Giuseppe , Franco Rocco , Marrapodi Maria Maddalena , Almeida Luis Eduardo , Ronsivalle Vincenzo , Cicciù Marco
Published: August 2023

Objective

Obesity is a growing epidemic in the world. It increases the risk for severe health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Recent research has found that obesity is associated with an increased risk for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The purpose of this literature review with meta‐analysis is to analyse the possible association between obesity and temporomandibular disorders.

Materials and Methods

Pubmed, Web of Science and Lilacs were systematically searched until 01/03/2000. Articles dealing with TMD and obesity were selected, and numbers that might be useful in the meta‐analysis were extracted.

Results

Fifty articles were chosen after using all three search engines. Thirty‐five articles were considered during the initial screening step. Four papers were chosen for title and abstract screening based on the PECO model. A manual search of bibliographies and the Cochrane database was also carried out, but no publications that matched the inclusion criteria were located. The articles and meta‐analysis did not show a clear association between obesity and temporomandibular disorders.

Conclusion

There is no evidence regarding the reliability of either method. Both have superimposable results.
Review of outpatient procedural sedation clinics in a tertiary paediatric hospital in South Australia
Authors: Jung‐Tang Nicole , Agrawal Rishi , Battersby Ailish , Burgoyne Laura , Louise Jennie , Cheung Abigail
Published: August 2023

Aim

Procedures, such as immunisation and venepuncture, can be distressing for paediatric patients, especially those with needle phobia and neurodevelopmental disorders. Procedural sedation helps provide access to equitable health care in this population. The aim of this study was to evaluate the pilot outpatient procedural sedation clinics at the Women's and Children's Hospital and the impact on patient care and outcomes.

Methods

A prospective review was undertaken between July 2021 and May 2022 on all patients who attended the procedural sedation clinics at the Women's and Children's Hospital. These clinics were the COVID Specialist Immunisation Sedation Clinic (SISC) and Paediatric Sedation Clinic (PSC).

Results

There were 182 visits in a total of 110 children with a 92% primary procedure success rate. Sixty‐three per cent of patients had neurodevelopmental disorders with autism spectrum disorder being most common. There was a significant reduction in anxiety scores pre‐ and post‐sedation and a reduction in anxiety scores if patients were to return without the use of sedation.

Conclusions

Outpatient procedural sedation is beneficial for a specific cohort of the paediatric population. This can also have a significant positive impact on patient care and potentially, long‐term outcomes.
Community‐based art groups in mental health recovery: A systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Goodman‐Casanova Jessica Marian , Guzman‐Parra Jose , Mayoral‐Cleries Fermin , Cuesta‐Lozano Daniel
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Though the evidence of the role of the arts in mental health is growing, no systematic review has focused on the impact of art groups in non‐clinical settings in the process of recovery following the CHIME framework.

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of engaging in community‐based art groups in mental health recovery.

Method

A search in five electronic databases for relevant research using quantitative, qualitative or mixed methods published between 2000 and 2019 identified nine eligible studies.

Results

While there was great methodological heterogeneity, most studies were qualitative, used visual arts, facilitated by artists and assessed by mental health nurses, and took place in community locations or artistic venues. Quantitative outcomes, though few, provided evidence of increased well‐being, and qualitative outcomes corresponded mostly with the recovery process of Connectedness. Additional outcomes related to the settings were a sense of safety and to the intervention: self‐expression, development of skills and achievements, and the impact of final exhibitions and peer leadership.

Discussion

Studies should aim at prospective designs following mixed methods approaches, with larger and gender‐sensitive samples, control groups and follow‐up assessments, and evaluate cost‐effectiveness.

Implications for practice

Community‐based art groups which increase well‐being and promote connectedness should be key in recovery‐action planning.
Phytodiversity is associated with habitat heterogeneity from Eurasia to the Hengduan Mountains
Authors: Chang Yaquan , Gelwick Katrina , Willett Sean D. , Shen Xinwei , Albouy Camille , Luo Ao , Wang Zhiheng , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Pellissier Loïc
Published: August 2023

The geographic distribution of plant diversity matches the gradient of habitat heterogeneity from lowlands to mountain regions. However, little is known about how much this relationship is conserved across scales.

Using the World Checklist of Vascular Plants and high‐resolution biodiversity maps developed by species distribution models, we investigated the associations between species richness and habitat heterogeneity at the scales of Eurasia and the Hengduan Mountains (HDM) in China.

Habitat heterogeneity explains seed plant species richness across Eurasia, but the plant species richness of 41/97 HDM families is even higher than expected from fitted statistical relationships. A habitat heterogeneity index combining growing degree days, site water balance, and bedrock type performs better than heterogeneity based on single variables in explaining species richness. In the HDM, the association between heterogeneity and species richness is stronger at larger scales.

Our findings suggest that high environmental heterogeneity provides suitable conditions for the diversification of lineages in the HDM. Nevertheless, habitat heterogeneity alone cannot fully explain the distribution of species richness in the HDM, especially in the western HDM, and complementary mechanisms, such as the complex geological history of the region, may have contributed to shaping this exceptional biodiversity hotspot.
Closing the loop and raising the bar: Automated control systems in neuromodulation
Authors: Su Po‐Yi Paul , Arle Jeffrey , Poree Lawrence
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Neuromodulation has emerged as a promising therapy for the management of chronic pain, movement disorders, and other neurological conditions. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a widely used form of neuromodulation that involves the delivery of electrical impulses to the spinal cord to modulate the transmission of pain signals to the brain. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of automation systems to improve the efficacy and safety of SCS. This narrative review summarizes the status of Food and Drug Administration‐approved autonomous neuromodulation devices including closed loop, feedforward, and feedback systems. The review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each system and focuses specifically on the use of these systems for SCS. It is important for clinicians to understand the expanding role of automation in neuromodulation in order to select appropriate therapies founded on automation systems to the specific needs of the patient and the underlying condition.

Conclusion

The review also provides insights into the current state of the art in neuromodulation automation systems and discusses potential future directions for research in this field.
Who has turned the project management lights on? A comparative analysis of transportation and information technology in US state governments
Authors: Grandage Andrew J. , Mitchell David
Published: August 2023

We provide a comparative analysis of capital project management for major transportation and information technology (IT) acquisitions in US state governments, focusing on the use of earned value management (EVM). Results indicate that most states have adopted basic reforms, such as establishing project management offices and developing guidelines based on industry standards. However, fewer have implemented reforms with more teeth to them, such as centralized oversight and EVM. We find that states with greater spending are more likely to use EVM but that it is more commonly prescribed for IT than transportation.
Revisiting the (lack of) association between objective and subjective measures of local fiscal condition
Authors: Park Sungho , Maher Craig S. , Liao Wei‐Jie
Published: August 2023

Recent fiscal condition literature has been attentive to the consistency between subjective measures of local fiscal condition based on public officials' perceptions and their objective counterparts measured using financial data. Studies have found little evidence of a relationship between them, leading scholars to speculate flaws in measurement or intentional lack of association. This study reevaluates the issue by investigating intervening explanations for the absence of connection. Analyzing survey and audited financial data from 185 municipalities across 31 states, we identify various individual and organizational attributes that help clarify the association between the two types of fiscal condition measures.
Ram semen quality after supplementation with gelatin, agar or alginate prior to cooling storage
Authors: González‐Maldonado Juan , Ramírez‐Valverde Gustavo , Rangel‐Santos Raymundo , Lorenzo Torres Alfredo , Muñoz‐García Canuto , Maldonado‐Jáquez Jorge Alonso
Published: August 2023

Adding gelling agents to convert the liquid state of the semen extender to a solid state allows for an increased sperm life span. Gelatin and alginate have been used to study the effects of gelling agents on sperm quality. However, there are other gelling agents that have not been studied, such as agar. In addition, studying different sources of gelling agents or the effect of mixing more than one gelling agent with semen extenders on sperm fertility has received little attention. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of adding agar and a mixture of gelling agents from different sources to semen extender on ram sperm traits and fertility. The first trial evaluated the effect of the addition of 2.5–3 mg mL−1 of gelatin mixed with 0.5–20 mg mL−1 of agar or alginate to ram semen extender on sperm (motility, progressive motility, live/dead, membrane integrity) and semen (pH) characteristics. The response variables were evaluated 1, 72 and 144 h after storage at 4°C. In the second trial, two sources (feed grade and bacteriological) of gelatin and agar were evaluated on the response variables as in Trial 1. In trial 3, a total of 34 ewes were inseminated with doses supplemented (n = 17) with or without (n = 17) agar and gelatin. The pregnancy rate was diagnosed 40 days after insemination. In general, adding agar and gelatin improves (p < .05) sperm motility, membrane integrity and the ratio of live sperm after 144 h of storage compared to the Control group, regardless of the source (bacteriological or feed grade). However, the pregnancy rate in ewes was not influenced (p ≥ .05) by semen doses stored with agar and gelatin. In conclusion, the addition of agar and gelatin preserves ram sperm motility and membrane integrity after 144 of storage at 4°C without affecting the pregnancy rate in inseminated ewes.
Changes in the gut microbiome can predict and decrease Epstein‐Barr virus infection risk in children after liver transplantation
Authors: Wang Xu , Sun Liying , Li Peng , Zhang Shutian
Published: August 2023

Objective

Primary Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection is observed in 60% of children during the first year after liver transplantation as usage of imm‐unosuppressant. Finding predictive indicators of EBV infection is important to reduce the morbidity and mortality of EBV infection‐related diseases by suggesting a dose reduction of immunosuppressant.

Methods

We compared and analysed the gut microbiome of EBV‐infected children with an asymptomatic virus‐carrying status and EBV‐uninfected children after liver transplantation using high‐throughput sequencing.

Results

Significant differences in gut microbiome composition in two groups were detected. In detail, Firmicutes and Lactobacillus were increased in EBV‐infected group, while Clostridium was increased in EBV‐uninfected group. Furthermore, CD4 percentage in T cells of blood showed a significant positive correlation with the content of Clostridium sp. CAG: 127 in EBV‐uninfected group.

Conclusion

Changes in the gut microbiome could predict and decrease the EBV infection risk of children after liver transplantation.

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Trough ganciclovir concentration as predictor of leukopenia in lung transplant recipients receiving valganciclovir prophylaxis
Authors: Katada Yoshiki , Nakagawa Shunsaku , Nagao Miki , Umemura Keisuke , Itohara Kotaro , Nishikawa Asami , Hashi Sachiyo , Katsube Yurie , Hira Daiki , Ohsumi Akihiro , Nakajima Daisuke , Date Hiroshi , Terada Tomohiro
Published: August 2023

Background

Valganciclovir is the first‐line agent for Cytomegalovirus prophylaxis after lung transplantation. However, its use is associated with a relatively high risk of hematological toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between trough ganciclovir concentration and hematologic toxicity in lung transplantation patients receiving valganciclovir prophylaxis, and identify factors that affect ganciclovir pharmacokinetics in this population.

Methods

This prospective observational study included 24 lung transplant patients receiving valganciclovir prophylaxis. The cutoff value of trough ganciclovir concentration was estimated using receiver operating characteristic analysis in leukopenia grade 3 and higher. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using a nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling program.

Results

The trough ganciclovir concentration was significantly higher in the group with leukopenia grades 3 or higher than in the group with grades less than or equal to 2 (1605.7 ± 860.1 ng/mL [n = 3] vs. 380.5 ± 175.8 ng/mL (n = 21), p < .001). The cutoff value of trough ganciclovir concentration for predicting greater than or equal to grade 3 leukopenia was estimated as 872.0 ng/mL. Creatinine clearance and lung re‐transplantation were found to have a significant impact on the total body clearance of valganciclovir. Ganciclovir clearance was decreased in patients with reduced creatine clearance or re‐transplantation.

Conclusion

These results suggest that higher ganciclovir trough concentrations are associated with an increased risk of leukopenia grade 3 or higher, and that creatinine clearance and lung re‐transplantation affected the pharmacokinetics of ganciclovir.

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The Arabidopsis PHOSPHATE 1 exporter undergoes constitutive internalization via clathrin‐mediated endocytosis
Authors: Vetal Pallavi V. , Poirier Yves
Published: August 2023

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) homeostasis is essential for plant growth and depends on the transport of Pi across cells. In Arabidopsis thaliana, PHOSPHATE 1 (PHO1) is present in the root pericycle and xylem parenchyma where it exports Pi into the xylem apoplast for its transfer to shoots. PHO1 consists of a cytosolic SPX domain followed by membrane‐spanning α‐helices and ends with the EXS domain, which participates in the steady‐state localization of PHO1 to the Golgi and trans‐Golgi network (TGN). However, PHO1 exports Pi across the plasma membrane (PM), making its localization difficult to reconcile with its function. To investigate whether PHO1 transiently associates with the PM, we inhibited clathrin‐mediated endocytosis (CME) by overexpressing AUXILIN‐LIKE 2 or HUB1. Inhibiting CME resulted in PHO1 re‐localization from the Golgi/TGN to the PM when PHO1 was expressed in Arabidopsis root pericycle or epidermis or Nicotiana benthamiana leaf epidermal cells. A fusion protein between the PHO1 EXS region and GFP was stabilized at the PM by CME inhibition, indicating that the EXS domain plays an important role in sorting PHO1 to/from the PM. PHO1 internalization from the PM occurred independently of AP2 and was not influenced by Pi deficiency, the ubiquitin‐conjugating E2 PHO2, or the potential ubiquitination of cytosolic lysines in the EXS domain. PM‐stabilized PHO1 showed reduced root‐to‐shoot Pi export activity, indicating that CME of PHO1 may be important for its optimal Pi export activity and plant Pi homeostasis.
Regenerative response in dogs naturally and experimentally infected with Babesia rossi
Authors: Seejarim Chandini , Rautenbach Yolandi , Hooijberg Emma H. , Leisewitz Andrew L. , Schoeman Johan P. , Goddard Amelia
Published: August 2023

Background

The regenerative response following Babesia rossi infection in dogs is mild, despite severe hemolytic anemia.

Objective

We aimed to compare the admission absolute reticulocyte count (ARC) and reticulocyte indices in 103 dogs naturally infected with B. rossi with 10 dogs suffering from immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and 14 healthy control dogs. The regenerative response was also evaluated in five dogs experimentally infected with B. rossi.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of records generated on the ADVIA 2120 hematology analyzer.

Results

The median hematocrits (HCT) of the B. rossi and IMHA groups were significantly lower than the control group (p < .001 for both); however, no differences were seen between the B. rossi and IMHA groups. Compared with the control group, the median ARC was significantly higher in the B. rossi (p = .006) and IMHA (p = .019) groups but significantly lower in the B. rossi group than the IMHA group (p = .041). In the experimentally infected dogs, there was a sudden decrease in the ARC approximately 48 h after the detection of peripheral parasitemia, which was followed by an increase after treatment. Reticulocytes of naturally infected B. rossi dogs were larger, with more variation in cellular volume. The reticulocytes of the experimentally infected dogs decreased in size with decreasing hemoglobin concentrations as the study progressed.

Conclusions

The regenerative response in dogs naturally infected with B. rossi is inadequate, given the severity of the anemia observed, and it might be a result of direct suppressive action by the parasite or host response on the bone marrow.
Evaluation of platelet additive solution for prolonging storage of functional canine platelet concentrate
Authors: Arjoonsingh Avin , Haines Jillian M. , Hwang Julianne K. , Guess Sarah C. , Wardrop K. Jane
Published: August 2023

Objective

To assess storage lesion development, platelet function, and bacterial growth in canine platelet concentrates (PCs) stored in a platelet additive solution (PAS) or a plasma control at 4°C for 21 days.

Design

Prospective, ex vivo, experimental controlled study.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Ten units of canine PCs collected from blood bank donations.

Interventions

The PCs were separated into 2 bags, 1 containing 100% plasma and the other containing 35% plasma and 65% of a PAS (Plasma‐Lyte A), and stored at 4°C for 21 days. At days 0, 7, 14, and 21, PCs were analyzed for the presence of swirling, aggregate formation, platelet counts, platelet indices, glucose, lactate, lactate dehydrogenase, Pvco2, Pvo2, aggregation via light aggregometry, activation percentages using flow cytometry, and bacterial growth.

Measurements and main results

Cold‐stored PCs in both PAS and plasma control maintained mean pH >6.8 and mean lactate <9.0 mmol/L over 21 days, with no difference in glucose utilization. Swirl was maintained in both solutions for most days (76/80 combined total samples), with no difference in aggregate formation between solutions. The Pvco2 was higher in plasma on all days (P < 0.001), with no difference in Pvo2. Platelet indices did not reflect significant storage lesion development in either solution. Lactate dehydrogenase did not differ between solutions but did increase from day 7 to day 21. Mean maximal aggregation percentage was reduced overall but with no significant difference between solutions. The only observed difference in mean activation percentage between solutions was in PAS on day 7, which was significantly higher than plasma (P < 0.05). No bacterial growth occurred during storage.

Conclusions

Cold storage in PAS and plasma allowed PCs to be stored for up to 21 days with minimal storage lesion development, maintenance of platelet function, limited platelet activation, and no bacterial growth within stored bags.