bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A ViT‐Based Adaptive Recurrent Mobilenet With Attention Network for Video Compression and Bit‐Rate Reduction Using Improved Heuristic Approach Under Versatile Video Coding
Authors: Padmapriya D. , Roseline A Ameelia
Published: December 2024

Video compression received attention from the communities of video processing and deep learning. Modern learning‐aided mechanisms use a hybrid coding approach to reduce redundancy in pixel space across time and space, improving motion compensation accuracy. The experiments in video compression have important improvements in past years. The Versatile Video Coding (VVC) is the primary enhancing standard of video compression which is also referred to as H. 226. The VVC codec is a block‐assisted hybrid codec, making it highly capable and complex. Video coding effectively compresses data while reducing compression artifacts, enhancing the quality and functionality of AI video technologies. However, the traditional models suffer from the incorrect compression of the motion and ineffective compensation frameworks of the motion leading to compression faults with a minimal trade‐off of the rate distortion. This work implements an automated and effective video compression task under VVC using a deep learning approach. Motion estimation is conducted using the Motion Vector (MV) encoder‐decoder model to track movements in the video. Based on these MV, the reconstruction of the frame is carried out to compensate for the motions. The residual images are obtained by using Vision Transformer‐based Adaptive Recurrent MobileNet with Attention Network (ViT‐ARMAN). The parameters optimization of the ViT‐ARMAN is done using the Opposition‐based Golden Tortoise Beetle Optimizer (OGTBO). Entropy coding is used in the training phase of the developed work to find the bit rate of residual images. Extensive experiments were conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed deep learning‐based method for video compression and bit rate reduction under VVC.
Isotopic Niche Size and Niche Overlap of Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) Reflect Trophic Position and Dissolved Oxygen Patterns in Lakes
Authors: McNulty Dylan J. , Gallagher David J. , Kangas Sara M. , Johnson Payton E. , Herwig Brian R. , Staples David F. , Zimmer Kyle D.
Published: December 2024

Understanding patterns of trophic niche overlap in fish communities is important because trophic redundancy can stabilise food webs. δ13C and δ15N in fish can be converted into percent littoral carbon and trophic position, respectively, and subsequently used to estimate isotopic niche size and overlap between species. We hypothesised yellow perch (Perca flavescens) would have the most niche overlap on other species due to their central position in lake food webs and large ontogenetic changes in diet. We also hypothesised variance in niche overlap across lakes would be driven by variance in size structure of perch populations among lakes. Alternatively, variance in perch niche overlap could be driven by food web variables such as mean trophic position. We addressed these questions by sampling fish in 17 Minnesota (USA) lakes. Results showed mean perch niche overlap on other species was significantly larger than all other species, and that perch niche size was positively related to niche overlap. We subsequently found no evidence perch population length structure influenced niche size or overlap, as no metrics of perch size structure were related to either variable. Instead, perch mean trophic position was negatively related to perch niche overlap and marginally related to niche size. Perch mean trophic position, in turn, was positively related to depth of hypoxic water. Our results indicate yellow perch may be important for stabilising lake food webs through high trophic redundancy on other fish species and that the degree of trophic redundancy may be influenced by dissolved oxygen patterns in lakes.
Education and the Future: Four Orientations
Authors: Rasa Tapio
Published: December 2024

Education is inherently entangled with the future. This argumentative review examines this entanglement and proposes a framework differentiating between four educational orientations towards the future. The orientation ‘Futures of education’ examines how education changes in the future: From rhetorical to visionary, these futures are concerned with issues such as educational technology. ‘Education to adapt to the future’ is concerned with how education prepares young people to face projected or unknown conditions and focuses on issues such as future jobs. ‘Education to change the future’ sees learners as having influence on the future and relates to issues such as sustainability and agency. ‘Education about futures’ involves bringing the potential and unpredictability of future into classrooms and is concerned with students' futures literacy. Focusing on questions of educational aims, critical perspectives and technology, literature around these orientations is examined to support more conscious discourse on the relationship between education and the future.
Editor profile: Lawrence Banks
Authors:   The FEBS Journal Editorial Team, Banks Lawrence
Published: December 2024

In this special interview series, we profile members of The FEBS Journal Editorial Board to highlight their research focus, perspectives on the journal, and future directions in their scientific fields. Lawrence Banks is the Director‐General of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in Trieste, Italy. He has served as an editorial board member of The FEBS Journal since 2013.
Membrane anchoring of New Delhi metallo‐β‐lactamase‐1 alters the fitness of Escherichia coli and increases its susceptibility to colistin by inducing outer membrane destabilization
Authors: Ma Bo , Zhou Shan , Fang Chao , Wang Mingzhi , Xue Xiaoyan , Xie Jianwei , Liu Jiayun , Hou Zheng
Published: December 2024

New Delhi metallo‐β‐lactamase‐1 (NDM‐1)‐producing bacteria are resistant to nearly all available β‐lactam antibiotics and have become a public health threat. Antibiotic resistance often carries fitness costs, which typically manifest as a reduced bacterial growth rate. Here, we investigated the mechanism of fitness cost in NDM‐1‐producing bacteria. Our findings revealed that strains expressing blaNDM‐1 exhibited a significant growth defect under high osmotic stress. This fitness cost was attributed to the anchoring of NDM‐1 to the bacterial outer membrane via its leader peptide, which destabilized the outer membrane. Replacing the membrane‐anchoring residue Cys26 in the leader peptide with alanine not only restored outer membrane stability but also ameliorated the bacterial fitness cost. Furthermore, the anchoring of NDM‐1 to the membrane increased bacterial susceptibility to the membrane‐disrupting antibiotic colistin, both in vitro and in vivo, as confirmed in engineered and clinically isolated strains. In conclusion, membrane anchoring of NDM‐1 increased the permeability of the bacterial outer membrane, thereby reducing the fitness of NDM‐1‐producing bacteria and enhancing their susceptibility to colistin. These results not only elucidate the mechanism of fitness cost associated with NDM‐1 but also provide new insights into the rational use of colistin to combat infections caused by NDM‐1‐producing bacteria.
Risk factors for post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography complications in very elderly patients aged 90 years or older—No additional risk
Authors: Manabe Daisuke , Arizumi Toshihiko , Aoyagi Hitoshi , Abe Koichiro , Kodashima Shinya , Asaoka Yoshinari , Yamamoto Takatsugu , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: December 2024

Aim

In recent years, the majority of patients eligible for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) have been aged ≥75 years. We investigated ERCP safety in very elderly patients (aged ≥90 years).

Methods

We included patients aged ≥75 years who underwent ERCP between January 2015 and December 2020. We compared background factors, comorbidities, ERCP indications, complications, and outcomes and identified risk factors for complications using binary logistic regression and inverse probability of treatment weighting with propensity scores.

Results

The study included 1344 patients aged ≥75 years (137 and 1207 very elderly and elderly patients, respectively). The very elderly group had more women, less frequent diabetes, fewer antithrombotic medications, more frequent parapapillary diverticulum, less frequent post‐cholecystectomy, and worse performance status. No significant differences were observed in the ERCP indications. Experienced endoscopists were likely to perform the procedure, and the procedure time was shorter for the very elderly. Complications occurred in 21 (15%) very elderly patients and 120 (10%) elderly patients, with no significant differences. The very elderly did not have an increased risk of complications but were less likely to be discharged home and had a significantly worse performance status at discharge.

Conclusions

ERCP could be safely performed in the very elderly, and age did not increase the risk of complications. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 54–60.
Causal association between sarcopenia and cognitive impairment contributes to the muscle–brain axis: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Duan Lincheng , Li Haoming , Li Shiyin , Shi Yue , Feng Yue
Published: December 2024

Aim

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting a correlation between sarcopenia (SP) and cognitive impairment (CI), but with conflict. This study employed a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to ascertain the causality between SP and CI.

Method

This study looked at whether there might be causality between SP and CI by using a bidirectional MR analysis on the GWAS summary datasets, which anyone can publicly access. The primary analysis employed inverse variance weighting (IVW), with MR‐Egger, weighted median, and mendelian randomization pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR‐PRESSO) serving as supplements. Multiple sensitivity analyses were performed to enhance the stability of the results, which encompassed heterogeneity tests and pleiotropy tests.

Results

Appendicular lean mass (ALM), walking pace (WP), and grip strength (GS) were found to be causally connected to cognitive performance in forward MR analysis. In the reverse MR study, cognitive performance also had a causal impact on ALM and WP. Additionally, we discovered comparable outcomes in the replication samples, which strengthens the validity of our findings.

Conclusions

The results of our MR investigation revealed a definitive cause‐and‐effect association between SP and CI. Our findings provide additional supporting evidence for the muscle–brain axis, which may suggest that muscle strengthening has a significant impact on the management and avoidance of CI. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 116–122.
Time‐course assessment of oral intake function and its impact on end‐of‐life in older individuals over 90 years with frailty
Authors: Yamada Hidetada , Nakamori Masahiro , Oda Masaya , Toko Megumi , Sakahara Hideaki , Tagane Yuichiro , Yamazaki Yu , Izumi Yuishin , Maruyama Hirofumi
Published: December 2024

Aim

The study investigates end‐of‐life trajectories, focusing on the degree of oral intake function in older individuals with frailty aged over 90 years.

Methods

This retrospective observational study examined individuals aged 90 years and older who passed away at a long‐term chronic care hospital and related facilities in Japan. We assessed their Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) and Function Oral Intake Scale (FOIS), categorizing them into two groups—“preserved CFS” (CFS score ≤7) and “poor CFS” (CFS score ≥8)—considering evaluations conducted 6 months before death. We examined the transitional progression of their CFS and FOIS scores, along with a time‐course assessment of low FOIS scores (≤3) in each group at various intervals.

Results

Among 66 cases, 38 were in the preserved CFS group, and 28 were in the poor CFS group. The CFS and FOIS scores of the preserved CFS group declined rapidly towards the end‐of‐life, with approximately half experiencing significant declines within 3 months. In contrast, both the CFS and the FOIS scores of the poor CFS group declined gradually within 6 months. The percentage of low FOIS score (≤3) was lower at 12 and 6 months than at 1 month prior to death in the preserved CFS group.

Conclusions

The end‐of‐life trajectories in older individuals with frailty aged over 90 years were heterogeneous. Clinicians should carefully monitor the degree of frailty and changes in food intake as crucial indications of the end‐of‐life phase, providing optimal support to manage potential vicious cycles. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 96–101.
The relative importance of plant‐pollinator network parameters in maintaining seed productivity varies between years
Authors: Tachibana Taiki , Uchida Kei , Nishimura Issei , Lu Xiaoming , Zhao Xuezhen , Bai Yongfei , Sasaki Takehiro
Published: December 2024

Human activities have caused biodiversity loss and climate change, altering critical ecosystem functions. Numerous empirical studies have focused on the relationship between plant diversity and primary productivity or its stability. However, ecosystem functions such as pollination and nutrient cycling would be regulated by biological interactions among multiple trophic levels. Here, we examined the relationship between plant diversity, pollination attributes, and seed productivity in a biodiversity experiment conducted in Inner Mongolia in 2018 and 2019, differing in intra‐annual precipitation patterns. We found that pollinator visitation frequency did not affect seed productivity in both years. In 2018, we observed that flowering plant richness and flower vulnerability had positive effects on seed productivity. In 2019, however, only network evenness had a negative effect on seed productivity. The consistent effect of pollination network structure but not visitation frequency on seed productivity across two growing seasons suggests that complementary plant‐pollinator interactions rather than mass effects of pollinator visitation regulate plant reproduction in the studied system. Since the relative contributions of flowering plant richness and plant‐pollinator interactions on seed productivity would vary due to intra‐annual precipitation patterns, as presented here, observations across multiple years should be required to fully reveal the ecosystem consequences of plant‐pollinator interactions.
Drought intensity–responsive changes in photosynthesis‐related proteins, carbohydrate pools and forage quality in Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.)
Authors: Lee Bok‐Rye , Park Sang‐Hyun , Kim Tae‐Hwan
Published: December 2024

Drought is a major factor affecting annual forage production and quality. The present study aimed to characterize drought stress–responsive changes in carbohydrate composition and forage quality–related parameters as being linked to the responses of physiological parameters during the regrowth of Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.). Drought treatment gradually decreased leaf water potential (Ψw) to a minimum value of −2.94 MPa at day 46. Drought‐responsive increases in H2O2 concentration and lipid peroxidation were significant from day 22 (Ψw = −1.38 MPa), accompanied by the decreased chlorophyll content. Drought stress repressed Rubisco large subunit and several thylakoid membrane protein complexes (PSI, PSII dimer, PSII monomer and cytochrome b6/f). Drought also increased glucose, fructose and sucrose concentrations from day 22. A distinct increase in monosaccharides and disaccharides coincided with a reduction of fructan, especially from day 36 onward, when the enzymatic activity of fructan exohydrolases (1‐FEH and 6‐FEH) became greatly enhanced. Significant changes in forage nutritional parameters also occurred from day 36 (Ψw = −2.74 MPa), as shown by increases in neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber (ADF) and ADF‐lignin with enhanced activity of polyphenol oxidase, as well as a decrease in crude protein content. These drought‐responsive changes in nutritional parameters were strongly correlated with a decrease in in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD). A correlation analysis revealed that drought‐induced accumulation of H2O2 along with decreasing Ψw was closely associated with increases in fiber compounds and ADF‐lignin leading to a decrease in IVDMD. Our results indicate that drought‐responsive reductions in forage quality mainly occurred under severe drought stress (day 36 to day 46, Ψw ≤ −2.74), when H2O2 accumulation and lipid peroxidation were high, were characterized by an accompanied increase in ADF.
Gender Inequality in International Research Engagement Amid Transformation to Global and Neoliberal Academia: The Case of Japan
Authors: Watanabe Megumi
Published: December 2024

To contribute to the theoretical debate on gender inequality in international research and mobility, this study applies Zippel's glass fences framework to explore the lived experiences of female faculty working at a Japanese university. An analysis of the interview data revealed that family care responsibilities and limited research time due to other work duties were two commonly experienced glass fences (i.e., gendered barriers to international research). There was a tendency, particularly among participants with children, to discontinue international research as a way of negotiating the masculine nature of academia and the persistent gender norms in Japanese society regarding women's roles in the family. Considering the structural and cultural constraints of higher education in Japan, this study found a behavioral mechanism among women who renounced mobility and international research activities. Participants' narratives also suggested mechanisms for overcoming such behaviors. Based on these findings, this study discusses cultural specificity in the magnitude of glass fences and the possibility of exacerbating gender inequalities in the context of ongoing internationalization and neoliberal reforms in Japanese higher education.
Investigating the causal and genetic relationship between migraine and Parkinson's disease
Authors: Deng Ming‐Gang , Zhou Xiuxiu , Liu Fang , Wang Kai , Luo Lingli , Zhang Min‐Jie , Feng Qianqian , Liu Jiewei
Published: December 2024

Objective

The relationship between migraine and Parkinson's disease (PD) remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the causal and genetic associations between migraine and PD.

Methods

Genetic data for migraine [any migraine (AM), migraine without aura (MO), and migraine with aura (MA)] and PD were sourced from the latest genome‐wide meta‐analyses conducted by the International Headache Genetics Consortium and the International Parkinson's Disease Genomics Consortium, respectively. Various analyses were performed to evaluate the potential causal associations and explore genetic correlations between these conditions.

Results

The analyses indicated that AM (odds ratio [OR] 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91–1.14; p = 0.785), MO (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.84–1.07; p = 0.358), and MA (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.95–1.06; p = 0.846) were not significantly associated with the risk of PD. Similarly, reverse analyses also demonstrated no significant causality between PD and the risks of migraine or its subtypes. After adjusting for coronary heart disease, AM (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.90–1.10; p = 0.897), MO (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.86–1.03; p = 0.207), and MA (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.93–1.07; p = 0.902) remained unrelated to PD risk. Likewise, PD was found to be unassociated with AM (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92–1.02; p = 0.168), MO (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.86–1.05; p = 0.287), and MA (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.93–1.13; p = 0.669). These null findings persisted even when adjusting for hypertension. Apart from above causal inference results, no significant genetic correlation was found between AM (rg = −0.06, p = 0.127), MA (rg = −0.05, p = 0.516), or MO (rg = −0.06, p = 0.492) and PD, and no correlations were observed across specific genomic regions. Additionally, no shared heritability was observed between PD and migraine, or its subtypes, in tissue expression.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that there is no significant causal association or genetic correlation between migraine and PD from a genetic perspective.
Lenacapavir: Patient and healthcare provider perceptions and the potential role for a twice‐yearly injectable HIV treatment
Authors: Alford Kate , Sidat Shiraaz , Bristowe Katherine , Cicconi Paola , Vera Jamie H. , Cresswell Fiona
Published: December 2024

Background

The twice‐yearly, long‐acting lenacapavir (LA LEN) antiretroviral therapy (ART), when combined with an optimised background regimen, provides a subcutaneous injectable treatment option for people with HIV. This study aimed to understand the preferences, barriers and facilitators for uptake and implementation of LA LEN, with a view to informing clinical implementation.

Methods

In‐depth qualitative interviews and focus groups with purposively sampled people with HIV and healthcare workers (HCWs) from UK HIV services were conducted. Transcripts were analysed using summative and conventional content analysis.

Results

Thirty‐four people with HIV with varied ART experience were recruited from two HIV services. Participants included 22 (65%) identifying as cisgender men and 12 (35%) identifying as cisgender women; median age was 55 years (range 26–76 years). Fourteen HIV HCWs took part in three focus groups. Four key themes and 12 subthemes were identified: LA LEN as a treatment option; LA LEN versus oral ART; switching considerations; and administration of LA LEN. The majority (88%) of people with HIV were interested in switching to LA LEN if offered. Preference was markedly reduced if an oral ART pairing was required. Convenience of the dosing schedule, reduced pill burden and issues around stigma were reasons for interest in LA LEN, but concerns regarding efficacy, dosing interval windows, monitoring and side effects were described. HCWs felt the benefit of LA LEN was as a treatment option for those with adherence issues, drug resistance and a high pill burden. Broader use of LA LEN raised concerns over drug resistance, delivery capacity and storage.

Conclusions

LA LEN was viewed as a preferable treatment choice for many people with HIV, provided an all‐injectable regimen was available. Feasibility assessments for provision of injectable ART and research on its potential for self‐administration are needed.
The Utility of Total Thrombus‐Formation Analysis System (T‐TAS) in the Thrombosis and Hemostasis Field: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mansouritorghabeh H. , Monard A. , Heubel‐Moenen F. , Leentjens J. , Stroobants A. , Henskens Y.
Published: December 2024

Background

A wide variety of laboratory hemostasis tests is available, but the majority is plasma‐based, static and unable to assess platelet function and fibrin formation simultaneously. The Total Thrombus‐Formation Analysis System (T‐TAS) is a microchip‐based flow chamber system that simulates in vivo conditions for evaluating whole blood thrombogenicity.

Aim

A comprehensive overview of its applicability in different thrombosis and hemostasis related clinical situations is lacking and therefore this scoping review was performed.

Materials & methods

A literature search was done using the electronic databases PubMed, Scopus and Embase on January 7, 2024. Original studies assessing the usefulness of the T‐TAS in thrombosis and hemostasis related clinical situations were eligible for this scoping review.

Results

A total of 28 studies were included; six studies investigating the role of the T‐TAS in congenital bleeding disorders, five studies using the T‐TAS to assess 1‐year bleeding risk in patients on antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications, four studies investigating the effects of thrombocytopenia and hemodialysis on thrombus formation as measured by the T‐TAS, 11 studies testing the applicability of the T‐TAS in the monitoring of anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies and eventually two studies on the ability of the T‐TAS to assess the thrombogenicity in different disease entities.

Discussion & conclusion

The T‐TAS method is an interesting technology that mimics the complex biological coagulation process using shear forces, creating a “blood vessel component on a chip”. More research is needed, but it could eventually function as a screening test for platelet function and coagulation. Moreover, it could be used to detect the presence of anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet medication.
A New Diagnostic Approach for Myelodysplastic Neoplasms Using a Combination of Scores Based on Flow Cytometry and Automated Hematology Sysmex XN Analyzers
Authors: Firrera Ludovic , Podvin Benjamin , Herlem Julien , Magierowicz Marion , Willaume Alexandre , Thibaud Vincent , Charpentier Agnès
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The first‐step in diagnosis of myelodysplastic neoplasms (MDS) is essentially based on bone marrow cytomorphology. However, cytomorphology of MDS is often a difficult exercise, subject to inter‐operator variability. Our study aims to evaluate whether the combination of two dysplasia scores, the extended Ogata score and the MDS‐CBC score, could improve the screening of MDS patients among patients with chronic cytopenia.

Methods

Extended Ogata score and MDS‐CBC score have been measured on a retrospective cohort of 63 patients with a clinical suspicion of MDS based on the presence of cytopenia. Among these patients, 33 patients were diagnosed as MDS (MDS group) and 30 patients were diagnosed with another cause of cytopenia (non‐MDS cytopenic control group).

Results

Our results show excellent performance of the combined scores in predicting MDS when the two scores are concordant: positive predictive value (PPV) = 96% and negative predictive value (NPV) = 92%. In comparison, in the same cohort, extended Ogata score alone showed a PPV = 90% and NPV = 79%, MDS‐CBC score alone showed a PPV = 85% and NPV = 86%.

Conclusion

For the first time, our results show that the combination of these two dysplasia scores constitutes a useful and rapid tool for the assessment of dysplasia associated with MDS. In the MDS diagnostic process, the use of combined scores could constitute a valuable tool to enable early strong prediction of MDS in cytopenic patients and to target patients who initially require additional genetic assays.
A Protracted War Against Counterfeits: Navigating Tension Management Under External Pressures on an E‐Commerce Platform
Authors: Hao Bin , Feng Yanan , Kamoche Ken
Published: December 2024

This study examines how external pressures drive a platform leader to fight counterfeiting over time. Acknowledging the tension between the illegality and legitimacy of counterfeiting, we find that the fighting effort involves an enduring balance between the two poles of the tension until counterfeits have been sharply reduced. We demonstrate how the management of the tension entails an interactive process in which a platform leader decouples counterfeit fighting actions to pursue legitimacy. We suggest that pressures from external forces predict a process of decoupling and legitimation through which the platform leader promotes ecosystem acceptance and builds a shared understanding of ecosystem purposes, and the endeavours to balance platform quality and activity prompt the platform leader to pursue legitimation which demonstrates the viability of an ecosystem. We show that these processes are accompanied by activating and stabilising the tension, which predicts varied strength and scope of measures and the reduction of counterfeits over time.
Taking theory of mind research into much needed new terrain – a commentary on Kochanska et al. (2025)
Authors: Thompson Ross A.
Published: December 2024

Contemporary research on developing theory of mind emphasizes its cognitive and neurobiological foundations, but studies of its relational origins have potential for opening new terrain in this expansive literature. The study by Kochanska and colleagues shows this in several ways. First, it offers a model for constructing theoretically guided causal models built on longitudinal research enlisting multiple predictors of developing theory of mind that can be examined in concert. Second, the findings invite deeper consideration of the processes by which theory of mind emerges by unpacking the relational predictors highlighted in this and other studies. In particular, examining the characteristics of early conversation focused on the child's experiences and mental states and studying the coordination of subjective states in parent–child interaction are each warranted avenues. Third, enlisting fathers and mothers into this inquiry broadens the range of relational partners contributing to young children's developing understanding of the mind.
Transformation to a Patient Centred Medical Home in an Urban Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service: A Qualitative Study Using Normalisation Process Theory
Authors: Clifford‐Motopi Anton , Gardner Karen , Brown (Nununccal) Renee , White (Palawa Iningai) Antoinette , Harald (Gangalu) Patrice , Butler Danielle , Mathew Saira , Mackenzie Julie , Mills Richard , Eaton Martie
Published: December 2024

Rationale

The Patient‐Centred Medical Home (PCMH) is a model of team‐based care that is patient centred, coordinated, accessible, and focused on quality and safety. To learn how this model of healthcare works in an Indigenous primary health care setting in Australia, we explored the experiences of health staff in an urban Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service (ACCHS) transitioning to an adapted model of a PCMH. Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) was applied to better understand factors enabling and inhibiting implementation of the PCMH, and the work required to deliver it.

Aims and Objectives

Applying NPT, we aimed to examine enablers and barriers to implementing a PCMH in an ACCHS setting and identify practical strategies to strengthen its implementation and delivery.

Methods

We employed semi‐structured interviews with 19 health staff in an urban ACCHS to explore mechanisms that inhibit and promote the implementation and delivery of a PCMH in their setting. Interview data were analysed using thematic analysis that mapped codes against NPT constructs (Coherence, Cognitive Participation, Collective Action and Reflexive Appraisal) to generate themes.

Results

Five key themes and 14 sub‐themes related to NPT constructs were identified. Broadly, health staff found the model of the PCMH to be coherent, engaged with others to adapt their roles, and worked collectively to embed new practices. Characteristics and practice norms of the clinic already aligned with the PCMH model were key enablers. Barriers were related to inadequate resourcing and ill‐defined roles. Stronger leadership and support, practical learning resources for staff, workforce mapping to better define staff roles, and training to address gaps in staff skills were strategies identified for strengthening implementation of a PCMH and sustaining its delivery in the ACCHS setting.

Conclusions

Applying NPT revealed the characteristics and practice norms of Indigenous community controlled health care as key enablers of implementing a PCMH in an urban ACCHS. Less than optimal resourcing and workforce development emerged as barriers needing to be resolved to strengthen implementation and delivery of a PCMH in this setting.
Meningeal null cell lymphoma causing diffuse pachymeningeal contrast enhancement in a dog
Authors: Madden M. , Israeliantz N. , Malbon A. , Piccinelli C. , Marioni‐Henry K. , Schwarz T. , Suñol A.
Published: December 2024

Diffuse pachymeningeal contrast enhancement is an uncommon imaging finding in dogs and current understanding of its aetiologies in veterinary medicine is limited. A 2‐year‐old female neutered Pug presented with chronic progressive vestibular signs, facial nerve paralysis, obtundation and episodic decerebellate rigidity. A magnetic resonance imaging study of the head revealed diffuse pachymeningeal thickening and contrast enhancement involving the caudal fossa and falx cerebri. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed marked neutrophilic pleocytosis. Infectious disease testing was negative and a tentative diagnosis of intracranial idiopathic hypertrophic pachymeningitis was made. Immunosuppressive treatment resulted in a short period of clinical improvement. The patient subsequently suffered multiple relapses which failed to respond to alternative immunosuppressive strategies, necessitating euthanasia. Histopathological findings supported a meningeal null cell lymphoma. While rare, neoplastic causes of diffuse pachymeningeal thickening and contrast enhancement should be considered.
Key stage of evolution of endemism in Gaoligong Shan after the late Pliocene
Authors: Ye Jun‐Wei , Li De‐Zhu
Published: December 2024

In the Mountains of Southwest China (MSC), accelerated diversification triggered by mountain uplift and monsoon intensification in the Miocene is widely revealed, but less is known about the stage after the Pliocene. Thus, the tempo‐spatial evolution of the endemism of Gaoligong Shan (GLGS), a young and isolated mountain with the highest biodiversity in the MSC, was determined. Temporal patterns were inferred by the stem ages of the endemic species and spatial patterns were inferred through ancestral area reconstructions and the distributions of the sister taxa. Temporally, the calibrated origin times of 114 phylogenetically well resolved endemic species (75 plants, 33 animals and six fungi) ranged from the early Miocene to the Holecene. Spatially, 82 centric origin species (mean = 3.08 Ma) were significantly younger than 32 eccentric origin species (6.84 Ma). Eccentric origins accumulated smoothly while centric origins burst after the late Pliocene, especially after the Pleistocene (n = 52). In centric origins, most of the sister taxa showed sympatric (n = 47) or allopatric (n = 23) distributions in the GLGS. The eccentric origins were mainly dispersed from the southern lower latitude region (n = 20). Principle component analysis indicated that niche conservatism exerted greater contribution to the speciation of the endemic species. Uplift of the GLGS and monsoon intensification during the late Pliocene accelerated the formation of its endemism. The “Species pump” effect of the Pleistocene climatic fluctuations is further revealed. Speciation triggered by geological isolation by mountain and river barriers through niche conservatism exceeds adaptive evolution.
The association between dream activity and alexithymia during pregnancy: A cross‐sectional study in a sample of pregnant women
Authors: Spinoni Marta , Scarpelli Serena , Di Pasquale Benedetti Ilaria , Med Carlotta , Ciolli Paola , Rech Francesco , De Gennaro Luigi , Grano Caterina
Published: December 2024

The gestational period is a sensitive time marked by significant changes that can affect women's sleep and dreaming processes, with an augmented frequency and recall of dreams suggesting that dreaming represents an adaptive mechanism of emotional regulation. This study investigates the relationship between pregnancy‐related variables, alexithymia, and depressive symptoms in influencing dream characteristics in women during the first trimester of pregnancy. A total of 118 pregnant women were recruited at the Obstetric Outpatient Service of an Italian University Hospital and completed the Mannheim Dream Questionnaire, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale‐20, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Regression analysis, t‐test, and moderation analysis were conducted through Jamovi. Dream recall frequency was predicted by age, parity, and depressive symptoms. Nightmare frequency and lucid dream frequency were significantly predicted by depressive symptoms, while nightmare distress was predicted by an unplanned pregnancy. Alexithymia was linked to higher nightmare frequency and nightmare distress. Moderation analysis revealed that the presence of depressive symptoms predicted increased nightmare frequency only in women with higher levels of alexithymia. These findings highlight the role of emotional regulation in dreaming during pregnancy, particularly among women exhibiting alexithymic traits and depressive symptoms. Nightmare frequency may serve as an indicator of impaired emotional regulation, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to enhance emotional coping strategies in this population. Future research should examine the content of nightmares to further understand their implications for maternal mental health.
Evaluation of Currently Available Laboratory Methods to Detect Terbinafine Resistant Dermatophytes Including a Gradient Strip for Terbinafine, EUCAST Microdilution E.Def 11.0, a Commercial Real‐Time PCR Assay, Squalene Epoxidase Sequencing and Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Sacheli Rosalie , Egrek Sabrina , El Moussaoui Khalid , Darfouf Rajae , Adjetey Akole Bahun , Hayette Marie‐Pierre
Published: December 2024

Background

Terbinafine resistance in dermatophytes is an increasing problem worldwide. Several outbreaks of terbinafine‐resistant dermatophytosis are currently occurring in India and surrounding countries, and these recent years, European countries have also been affected by this issue. Currently, antifungal susceptibility testing of dermatophytes is not routinely performed in clinical laboratories.

Objectives

Given the current situation and associated public health concerns, there is an urgent need for accurate and rapid detection of terbinafine resistance in laboratories. Therefore, we evaluated different methods currently available for the detection of terbinafine resistance in dermatophytes.

Methods

Twenty‐eight strains previously identified as T. indotineae/mentagrophytes/interdigitale were concurrently characterised using terbinafine gradient strips (HiMedia), EUCAST E.Def 11.0 microdilution, the DermaGenius resistance PCR assay (PathoNostics), and SQLE sequencing. These four methods were compared to terbinafine resistance characterisation obtained by whole genome sequencing (WGS).

Results

All four evaluated methods were able to detect terbinafine resistant strains either by showing high MICs (> 0.125 μg/mL) or by detecting SQLE substitutions.

Conclusions

The gradient strips, despite questionable essential agreement with EUCAST E.Def 11.0, can be an easy, fast and cheap method to screen terbinafine resistance among dermatophytes in clinical laboratories. The DermaGenius resistance PCR assay enables rapid detection of the most common substitutions in SQLE associated with terbinafine resistance. However, its inability to precisely determine specific substitutions on SQLE or identify new ones may pose a problem in the future. These limitations can be addressed by using SQLE sequencing or whole genome sequencing (WGS).
General Hospital Nurses' Experience and Perception of Person‐Centered Care: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Hong Se Jin , Kim Eun Young
Published: December 2024

This study explored the general hospital nurses' experiences and perceptions of providing person‐centered care using a Giorgi's phenomenological approach. Through purposive sampling, 10 nurses were selected from five general hospitals in Korea. We identified 83 codes, which were integrated into 17 subconstituents and further into four constituents: “A comprehensive approach based on love for humanity,” “Providing customized nursing care through an individual approach,” “Building the expertise required as a nurse,” and “Challenges to actual nursing practice.” These findings are valuable for understanding general hospital nurses' in‐depth experiences providing person‐centered care and their perceptions. Despite numerous challenges, nurses in general hospitals are attempting to deliver person‐centered care comprehensively and tailored based on their expertise. Current challenges can be overcome by raising awareness about providing person‐centered care in general hospitals and enhancing systems to minimize workloads. The results of this will be a crucial foundation for developing educational programs to increase nurses' understanding of person‐centered care and encourage their practice. Furthermore, it will be useful in suggesting future directions for altering the nursing workforce or scope of work.
Effect of Decellularized Amniotic Membrane on the Tendon–Bone Integration in Rotator Cuff Repair: A Comparative Rat Model Study
Authors: Wang Jiangtao , Li Chunbao , Zhang Jiating , An Mingyang , Zhao Gang , Stark Samuel D. , Liu Yujie
Published: December 2024

Objective

Rotator cuff retear after arthroscopy repair is a difficult complication that is often due to poor tendon–bone healing. Decellularized amniotic membrane (DAM) has a variety of bioactive substances which have great potential to enhance tendon–bone healing. However, DAM has three layers, of which the middle basement layer is dense and thick. Whether DAM will hinder tendon–bone healing of rotator cuff after surgical repair is unclear. Our study aims to investigate the effect of DAM on tendon–bone healing of the rotator cuff after surgical repair.

Methods

Thirty‐three Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were selected to establish unilateral supraspinatus (ST) tear models and were randomly treated with only suturing repair (OSR group, n = 11), and suturing repair with DAM placed between the ST and bone (DAM group, n = 11). In the normal control group (NCT group, n = 11), the supraspinatus was only exposed but not detached or repaired. After 4 weeks the rats were sacrificed. The assessment of specimens was conducted by micro‐CT analysis, histopathological evaluation, and biomechanical testing.

Results

The DAM group had a significantly higher ultimate load to failure, new bone volume, and histological evaluation at 4 weeks after surgery than the OSR group. When comparing the DAM group to the NCT group, the DAM group performed slightly worse in biomechanical testing, micro‐CT analysis, and histological evaluation.

Conclusion

When placed between tendon and bone at the rotator cuff footprint, DAM, despite its dense and thick basement layer, does not impede tendon–bone healing after surgical repair for rotator cuff injury, but rather promotes increased healing quality and biomechanical properties. However, the healing quality and biomechanical properties are still lower than that of the normal rotator cuff, and further improvement should be made to the application strategy of a DAM.
Opioid Epidemic and Local Fiscal Choices: Causal Evidence From Hydrocodone Rescheduling
Authors: Lozano‐Rojas Felipe , Ivonchyk Mikhail
Published: December 2024

The opioid epidemic has garnered attention from scholars across disciplines, yet its effect on local finances remains uncertain. We exploit an exogenous shock in hydrocodone supply, a commonly abused opioid, to estimate the causal effect of opioid exposure on local finances. Our results reveal larger budgets in affected communities, driven primarily by increased healthcare spending, along with higher intergovernmental aid and property taxes, while other revenue sources remain largely unchanged. These findings indicate that the epidemic burdens local budgets and suggest that addressing root causes, such as legal opioid supply, may not fully mitigate financial impacts.
Association between meaningful activities and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia among people with early‐onset dementia using long‐term care services
Authors: Yokoyama Kazuki , Miyajima Ryo , Yama Kosuke , Shimada Kiyotaka , Shimokihara Suguru , Moribayashi Mieko , Hirano Noriko , Ikeda Nozomu
Published: December 2024

Background

The aim of this study was to clarify the engagement status of meaningful activities (MA) and its association with behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) among people with early‐onset dementia (EOD).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 367 facilities that provide long‐term care insurance (LTCI) services in Sapporo, Japan. A questionnaire was sent to these facilities to determine whether they had ever cared for people with EOD who developed dementia before the age of 65 and used LTCI services. For facilities that had provided such care, the engagement status of MA for people with EOD was determined, along with the presence or absence of BPSD.

Results

A total of 54 facilities had experience accepting people with EOD (14.7%), and the statuses of 69 people with EOD were determined following approval for providing information from these facilities. In total, 27 of the 69 people with EOD (39.1%) were engaged in MA. Multivariate‐adjusted regression model revealed that the absence of apathy was significantly associated with the engagement status of MA after adjustment for age, sex, and dementia severity.

Conclusion

MA was performed by less than 40% of people with EOD using Japanese LTCI services, and it was negatively associated only with apathy among BPSD.
Stability Analysis of Nondifferentiable Systems
Authors: Sim Jiwoon , Wang Tianxu , Wang Hao
Published: December 2024

Differential equations with right‐hand side functions that are not everywhere differentiable are referred to as nondifferentiable systems. This paper introduces three novel methods to address stability issues in nondifferentiable systems. The first method extends the linearization method as it fails when the equilibrium is in a nondifferentiable region. We find that the stability of a piecewise differentiable system aligns with the behavior of its subsystems as long as the “distance” between these subsystems is sufficiently small. The second method is to examine the eigenvalues of the symmetric part of the Jacobian matrix in the vicinity of the equilibrium. This method applies to functions with even weaker regularity conditions, and does not require the eigenvalues to have a negative upper bound (or positive lower bound) over the domain. The third method establishes a connection between nondifferentiable systems and their approximate counterparts, revealing that their stability can be consistent under certain conditions. Additionally, we reaffirm the first two results via the approximation method. Examples are provided to illustrate the applications of our main results, including piecewise differentiable systems, general nondifferentiable systems, and realistic scenarios.
Association of Hypokalemia With Mortality in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Huo Zhongcui , Zhu Xueli , Yang Yong , Wang Sai
Published: December 2024

Background

Potassium imbalance, particularly hypokalemia, is a critical risk factor for adverse outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD). However, the association between hypokalemia and mortality is unclear.

Methods

For this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we assessed the association between hypokalemia and mortality in patients undergoing HD. We performed a systematic search of electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus) to identify relevant studies published up to April 2024. Eligible studies were prospective or retrospective cohort studies reporting hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality in association with the presence of hypokalemia among patients undergoing HD. We used the assessed study Newcastle–Ottawa Scale to assess quality of the selected studies.

Results

We carried out both qualitative and quantitative assessments. For the meta‐analysis, we pooled the HRs for all‐cause and cardiovascular mortalities. The overall pooled HR for all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality were 1.34 (95% CI, 1.15, 1.55) and 1.49 (95% CI, 1.12, 1.98), respectively, indicating significant associations between hypokalemia and all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in patients undergoing HD. Additionally, we conducted subgroup analyses based on study design, geographical location, type of dialysis, and serum potassium levels.

Conclusion

Our findings provide robust evidence of a significant association between hypokalemia and mortality in patients undergoing HD. Early detection and proactive management of hypokalemia are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing mortality risk in these patients.