bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive Effects of Anthropogenic Stressors on the Temporal Changes in the Size Spectrum of Lake Fish Communities
Authors: Marin Valentin , Cucherousset Julien , Grenouillet Gaël
Published: November 2024

The size spectrum represents a powerful approach for quantifying the effects of environmental changes from individuals to communities in aquatic ecosystems. However, our understanding of its temporal stability in freshwater ecosystems is still limited. In the present study, we used a size spectrum approach to investigate the responses of 126 lake fish communities to changes in the intensity of three common anthropogenic stressors (i.e., global warming, nutrient loading and biological invasions) in French natural lakes and reservoirs over an average 5‐year time period. Using a backward selection on a full model including all possible effects of stressors on the size spectrum slope, we demonstrated that (i) increasing summer temperature shifted fish abundance towards the largest size classes, resulting in a flatter size spectrum slope and (ii) nutrient loading and biological invasions were associated with a shift towards smaller size classes in natural lakes, while the opposite effect was observed in reservoirs. In addition, these two stressors interacted in determining changes in the size structure of fish communities, complicating what the size spectrum can reveal about changes in stressor intensity during monitoring programs. All predictors accounted for a limited part of the observed changes in size spectra, and further investigations are needed to fully apprehend the interplay between natural and human‐induced drivers of the temporal changes in size spectra in contrasting environmental conditions.
Impact of a digital relationship intervention for jailed individuals
Authors: Guttman Shayna , Doss Brian D.
Published: November 2024

Not surprisingly, incarceration's extreme separation and stress have significant negative effects on romantic relationships. Unfortunately, few programs have been developed to improve jailed individuals' romantic relationship with their non‐incarcerated partner. The present study investigated the effectiveness of the individual version of the digital OurRelationship program for incarcerated individuals. The current study is a program evaluation of services provided by PayTel Inc. (a provider of eLearning and communication devices in US jails) between June 2020 and November 2021. Of the 5411 individuals in a romantic relationship who started the program, 3034 completed it. Following completion of the program, 78% reported feeling “Mostly” or “Very Satisfied” with the program, and 77% reported “Slight” to “Strong” agreement that their relationship benefited from the program. Individuals' relationship confidence (d = 0.36) and relationship knowledge (d = 0.33) significantly improved during the program. Women and Latino/Hispanic and Asian/PI individuals experienced the largest pre‐post gains in relationship functioning. Furthermore, racial/ethnic minority groups tended to report higher satisfaction with the program. Overall, the high rates of program satisfaction and significant pre‐post changes—combined with their reduced barriers to dissemination—support the delivery of digital relationship programs for jailed individuals interested in strengthening their relationship.
Contribution of the Self‐Heating Method in the Characterization of the Fatigue Damage of Materials With Defects Resulting From Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ziri Sabrine , Hor Anis , Mabru Catherine
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the ability of the self‐heating method to characterize the fatigue behavior of 316L stainless steel produced by Laser Powder Bed Fusion. Nearly dense cylinders are built vertically using various process parameters corresponding to various volumetric energy densities. Fatigue specimens are then machined from these cylinders and polished. Fully reversed tension–compression fatigue tests (R = −1) are conducted. The self‐heating method is used for the estimation of the fatigue limits. These fatigue limits are compared to results obtained from S‐N curves in the high cycle regime. Whatever the set of process parameters, the self‐heating curves show three distinct domains of heat dissipation. Thanks to microstructure analysis, fractographic observations, and correlations with S–N curves, these domains can be closely linked to damage mechanisms associated or not with defects.
Non‐breeding home range and habitat use by European Pied Flycatcher (Ficedula hypoleuca) in northwest Liberia: apparent resilience to forest degradation?
Authors: Bryant Jessica V. , Mallord John W. , Bell Fraser , Loqueh Emmanuel , Orsman Christopher J. , Skeen Roger , Sambola Gordon B. , Saye Alexander Wuo , Garteh Patrick , Kpawulu Yorgbor , Beresford Alison E. , Vickery Juliet A. , Burgess Malcolm D.
Published: November 2024

Identifying population drivers of migratory birds requires knowledge of species' ecology throughout their annual cycle. For most Afro‐Palaearctic migratory species, little is known about non‐breeding habitat use, despite extensive land use change in non‐breeding areas of sub‐Saharan Africa being a key factor implicated in population decline. We radio‐tracked 54 Pied Flycatchers Ficedula hypoleuca at two sites of differing levels of forest disturbance, in Liberia, western Africa, over three non‐breeding seasons to determine home range size and site fidelity, and describe habitat and tree species preference within home ranges. We found high territory fidelity both within and between years, and a preference for well‐wooded landscapes. We found that Pied Flycatcher presence was positively associated with large and mature trees, and areas with a higher density of trees. Pied Flycatchers preferred several tree species that were uncommon within home ranges, and several non‐native tree species likely to support a high invertebrate abundance. Pied Flycatchers preferentially selected areas burnt in the same or previous winter, possibly related to enhanced food resources associated with vegetation regrowth following burning. We also found no significant difference in home range size between sites and similar habitat associations despite differences in habitat disturbance. This suggests that human‐modified habitats may remain suitable for Pied Flycatchers, as long as they retain moderate tree cover, especially larger, taller and more mature trees, whether native or non‐native.
The kinetics of moisture sorption by hair
Authors: Breakspear S. , Evans T. , Frueh P. , Neu A. , Noecker B. , Popescu C. , Uellner Q.
Published: November 2024

Objective

The rate process of moisture sorption by human hair has been analysed in order to hints for helping deepen knowledge on the hair structure and to explain the behaviour of hair in response to moisture.

Methods

The isotherms of moisture sorption by hair were recorded, via dynamic vapour sorption (DVS), for untreated (virgin) and treated (heat‐shaped and bleached) hair, as well as for separated cuticle and cortex.

Results

By considering that, during moisture uptake, the hair fibres also swell, it is possible to introduce a time‐dependent rate constant for describing the kinetics of the moisture sorption. This model allows for clearly separating the moisture sorption processes occurring in Cuticle and in Cortex and for proposing a role of chain entanglement in the two main compartments of the fibre. It may also provide some hints on the structural changes occurring in the fibre after different cosmetic treatments. The influence of the weight of the sample on the kinetics of the sorption process has also been noted and quantified. The analysis pointed to a transition occurring at around 30% relative humidity, assigned to the opening of the hair inner structure, and accommodation of more water molecules. This allowed for an estimate of the value of the activation energy of the water molecules reacting with the active sites, which was found to be in good agreement with results published in the literature.

Conclusion

The analysis of the kinetics of moisture sorption by hair was shown not only to provide information on the chain entanglement inside the fibre and the effect of cosmetic treatments but also to demonstrate and quantify the influence of fibre density on the sorption process. It is thus suggested that, along with examination of the hysteresis, the analysis of sorption kinetics helps reveal a more complete picture of hair moisture management.
Scalp condition improvement with botanical extracts possessing chemical and physical antioxidant activity
Authors: Marsh Jennifer M. , Li Lijuan , Knowles Sonja , Locker Kathryn C. S. , Pearson Kathleen , Bacon Rob , Kozak Kimberly , Laughlin Tim , Schwartz James R.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Oxidative stress is implicated in scalp and hair health manifesting in several ways, including skin barrier, hair retention, healthy hair appearance and scalp sensation. We previously linked markers of oxidative damage to dandruff and skin barrier impairment and have linked key anti‐dandruff technologies to the resolution of these issues. Here we expand the therapeutic space demonstrating many botanical extracts offer protective benefits against ROS stress via both chemical and biological antioxidant mechanisms.

Methods

Chemical antioxidant activity of 10 botanical extracts was measured using oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and biological antioxidant activity was measured using a Nrf‐2 cell assay. A three‐dimensional human keratinocyte skin equivalent model from MatTek was used to measure efficacy of reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) from both the botanicals added as a solution and from a shampoo product. A 4‐week consumer study with 56 panels was conducted with a leave‐on treatment containing a botanical extract. Measurement of the oxidized lipids (9 and 13‐Hydroxy‐10E 12Z‐octadecadienoic acid, HODE) extracted from scalp tape strips was made using gradient reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS).

Results

We demonstrated in vitro that many botanical extracts exert antioxidant activity by quenching radicals in ORAC testing as well as activating biological antioxidant pathways via nrf‐2 up‐regulation in a cellular reporter system. Furthermore, we demonstrate these antioxidant activities for these botanicals in 3D skin models and ultimately show the reduction of lipid oxidation products in a consumer use context with a rosemary extract.

Conclusion

Improved scalp condition can be achieved with incorporation of botanicals having the potential to exert antioxidant activity in hair/scalp care products.
Thermal/mechanical properties of cordierite synthesized using coal gangue as a refractory material
Authors: Yan Guangmao , Chen Lin , Jiang Qingwei , Zhang Luyang , Wang Jiankun , Yang Yunchuan , Li Zulai , Feng Jing
Published: November 2024

Coal gangues i a solid waste during the coal mining process and the accumulation of coal gangue will harm the environment. Therefore, solid waste utilization of coal gangue is required to reduce the environmental damage. In this paper, cordierite ceramics are successfully prepared via a solid‐phase sintering using coal gangue, Al2O3, and MgO as raw materials. The effects of sintering temperatures on the microstructures, phase stability, and thermal properties of ceramics are investigated. The results show that the properties of cordierites prepared at 1200°C are close to those of prepared by the traditional method, and the synthesized ceramics have thermal expansion coefficients (TECs) and conductivity of 4.1–10−6 K−1 and 1.72 W·m−1 K−1 at 900°C, respectively. The sample prepared at 1200°C has good wear resistance (η) with a wear resistance coefficient of 0.507, and an excellent thermal shock resistance, which can withstand 15 times of cold and hot shocks at 1100°C without any cracks on the surface. This study systematically elucidates the thermal/mechanical properties of the synthesized cordierite, and the feasibility of using coal gangue as raw materials prepared cordierite ceramics as refractory materials. This work presents an effective solution to mitigate the challenge of coal gangue disposal.
Exploring the Variability in Triage Nursing Workload: Insights From a Multicentre Observational Study
Authors: Zaboli Arian , Brigo Francesco , Brigiari Gloria , Turcato Gianni
Published: November 2024

Aim

Although there has been a significant amount of research on nurse workloads in hospital environments, there has been a lack of comprehensive investigation of the workload of triage nurses. This study assesses the workload fluctuations of triage nurses in various emergency departments in the same region and examines how workload varies based on emergency department visit volumes and seasonal fluctuations.

Design

The study is a retrospective, multicentre, observational study from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2023, in seven Italian emergency departments, gathering information on all patients who went through the triage process.

Methods

We documented the number of nurses present throughout each shift and adjusted the data to account for the number of patients attended to by each triage nurse per shift. The EDs were classified into high‐inflow, medium‐inflow and low‐inflow categories according to the annual number of patients they served.

Results

The study included 1,223,331 emergency department triage assessments. During daytime shifts, triage nurses in high‐inflow emergency departments assessed a median of 74 patients, while those in medium‐inflow and low‐inflow emergency departments assessed 63 and 32 patients, respectively. During nighttime shifts, triage nurses in high‐inflow emergency departments assessed 26 patients, compared to 14 in medium‐inflow and 5 in low‐inflow emergency departments. Significant seasonal fluctuations in the workload of triage nurses were observed.

Conclusions

This study reveals substantial disparities in the number of patients triage nurses assess, which vary according to emergency department patient inflow volumes and seasonal factors. The findings emphasise the need for more standardised and equitable workload distribution among triage nurses. Future research should aim to establish a systematic nurse staffing model for triage to ensure manageable workloads and maintain patient safety.

Reporting Method

The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology was used.

Patient and Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Beware of hitchhiking ticks? Clarifying the variable roles of bird species in tick movement along migratory routes
Authors: Burnus Lars , Wynn Joe , Liedvogel Miriam , Rollins Robert E.
Published: November 2024

Ticks are blood‐feeding parasites which act as major vectors for various pathogenic microorganisms affecting both animal and human health. Hard ticks are known to move passively (i.e. ‘hitchhike') on migratory birds as they transit between breeding and non‐breeding grounds. This potentially leads to exchange and establishment of non‐endemic tick species in novel environments. However, it is not yet clear if all migratory bird taxa play an equal role in movement of specific tick species, especially outside of medically important tick taxa. To clarify these interactions, we performed a systematic literature review regarding primary data of ticks moving on migratory birds within the African–Western Palearctic flyways. In total, 35 studies were found which showed 123 bird species from 37 families and 12 orders connected to potential movement of 30 tick species representing six genera (Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma, Ixodes, Rhipicephalus). Most tick species did not show high abundance for any bird species, or, if they did, only on very few. Only Ixodes ricinus and Hyalomma marginatum were estimated to be carried at above average burdens by multiple bird species. This could indicate an increased likelihood of these species to be moved during migration. Specific tick species or whole genera were only found in certain migratory seasons as expected based on their geographic distributions. Even so, species found in both migratory seasons did not differ in their estimated abundances on birds between seasons. This result could suggest that tick abundance on migrating birds is not always a direct result of geographic distribution and may suggest an understudied importance of stopover sites towards potential tick introduction or turnover. Taken together, the results presented here provide guiding information for future analyses integrating individual level variation into the current understanding of tick movement with migratory birds.
Somatostatin receptor‐linked α‐particle therapy in neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Navalkissoor Shaunak , Grossman Ashley
Published: November 2024

The incidence and prevalence of neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are on the rise, but to date, only complete surgical resection is curative. Among the various therapeutic options for metastatic disease, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), linking a radioactive moiety to an octreotide derivative, has been shown to be highly efficacious and a well‐tolerated therapy, improving progression‐free survival and prolonging overall survival. Nevertheless, complete responses are rare, and the current β‐particle emitters have non‐optimal radiobiological properties. A new generation of α‐particle‐emitting radionuclides is being developed, with the advantages of very high energy and a short path length. We survey the most recent developments in this field, summarising the result of currently performed studies in this potentially ground‐breaking novel form of therapy for NETs.
Pilot study of the effect of surgical menopause on bone mineral density and quality in patients with gynecological malignancies
Authors: Matsuno Kanae , Ueda Kazu , Saito Mitsuru , Kamii Misato , Tsuda Akina , Kawabata Ayako , Morikawa Asuka , Okamoto Aikou
Published: November 2024

Aim

To investigate the effects of surgical menopause on bone mineral density and bone quality because bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy for the treatment of gynecological malignancies is common even in premenopausal patients. This study is prospective one of bone mineral density and quality measurements after surgery for perimenopausal gynecologic malignancies.

Methods

In 50 women who underwent surgical menopause for a diagnosis of gynecological malignancies, bone mineral density (BMD), blood levels of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP‐5b) and bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) as bone metabolism markers, and urinary pentosidine level as bone quality marker were measured before surgery and at multiple points up to 24 months after surgery.

Results

In a group of 22 patients who did not undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) (HRT− group), BMD of the lumbar spine and total hip continued to decrease significantly from 6 months postoperatively. Percentages of changes in BMD progressively increased over time after surgery. TRACP‐5b and urinary pentosidine levels significantly increased 6 months postoperatively compared with preoperative levels. Comparisons between 10 patients who underwent HRT (HRT+ group) and the HRT− group revealed significant reductions in the percentage of change in lumbar spine BMD only and TRACP‐5b and urinary pentosidine levels 12 months postoperatively in the former group.

Conclusions

In this pilot study, we showed that BMD and bone‐related markers are altered in patients with surgical menopause. It also suggested that HRT may reduce these influences on bone metabolism.
Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm: New Insights Into Its Origin and Nomenclatures
Authors: Soares Andresa Borges , Teixeira Lucas Novaes , Melo Joana Vitória Batista Costa , Passador Santos Fabrício , Freitas Nadir Severina , de Araújo Ney Soares , de Araújo Vera Cavalcanti
Published: November 2024

Background

Mucinous cells can be detected sporadically or may constitute the primary tumor component in salivary gland tumors, as observed in the intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). This low‐grade tumor is composed of mucinous columnar cells organized into papillary cystic structures. The present study aimed to compare the mucous cells in IPMN with mucous cells present in mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) and papillary cystadenoma (PC).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry analysis was carried out to compare the mucous cells in IPMN with the sporadic mucous cells in MEC (n = 4) and PC (n = 3).

Results

The results indicated that IPMN cells were positive for CK7, CK18, DOG1, and NKX3.1 and negative for CK14, SMA, and p63. The mucous cells in both MEC and PC were positive for CK7 and negative for CK18, SMA, DOG1, and NKX3.1. The positive expression of CK14 and p63 revealed the presence of basal cells both in PC, cystic areas of MEC, and normal mucous salivary glands.

Conclusion

The immunohistochemical profile of IPMN closely resembles that of the mucous cells of the minor salivary glands yet differs from the mucous cells observed in MEC and PCX. This suggests that IPMN is probably derived from the transformation of secretory cells of the minor mucous salivary gland and has no rimming/basal cells. For this reason, we propose that this tumor is designated as mucous acinic cell carcinoma.
Personality and Meat Consumption Among Romantic Partners in Daily Life
Authors: Tan Nicholas Poh‐Jie , Trenkenschuh Maxim , Ackermann Dana , Betancourt Leyla Anina Rosero , Bleidorn Wiebke , Hopwood Christopher J.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Eating is often a social activity that can be influenced by others, particularly in close relationships when dietary preferences reflect underlying value differences. We sought to examine the personality traits of meat‐eating couples who differ in their preferences for meat.

Method

We recruited Swiss romantic couples in which one partner typically consumed more meat than the other (N = 272, couples = 136). At baseline, participants completed survey measures of self‐ and informant‐rated personality traits at the domain (e.g., agreeableness) and aspect level (e.g., compassion) and meat consumption. Participants then completed 28 daily meal surveys about their meat consumption.

Results

Among high‐meat eating partners, those higher in openness/intellect and compassion ate less meat. Additionally, higher intellect among low‐meat eating partners predicted lower meat consumption among high‐meat eating partners.

Conclusions

These findings replicate evidence that personality plays an important role in meat‐eating and extend this evidence to meat consumption in a relational context.
The Myth of Agreement
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Michal Roch
Published: November 2024

Contemporary ontological constructivism often rests on the belief that social reality emerges from tacit agreements, underpinning mutual expectations and trust. In social theory, the concept of agreement has evolved from explicit social contracts to normative consensus and the idea of tacit knowledge that subtly binds social actors. This article challenges this prevailing approach by dissecting various constructivist positions and exposing the implications of agreement‐based ontological constructivism on our understanding of culture, norms, and society. The author revisits an alternative perspective, claiming that human society is equally a structure of disagreement. Emphasizing disagreement advocates for a realistic social theory and highlights the vital role of fiction in shaping social life.
An Assessment of the Knowledge Attitude and Practices (KAP) on Biosecurity and Best Management Practices in Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Cage Aquaculture in Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: Mwainge V. , Vang A. , Ogwai C. , Obuya J. , Benhaïm D.
Published: November 2024

As aquaculture intensifies, maintaining conducive conditions for sustainable production becomes a key priority. The expansion in farm number and perfarm production puts pressure on the environment and increases susceptibility of the cultured fish to disease, leading to production loss by the investors. This study was conducted in cage aquaculture systems located in three riparian counties in Lake Victoria, Kenya to investigate the combined role of biosecurity and adherence to best management practices (BMPs) by looking at the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of the cage aquaculture farmers. Additionally, it examined the link between biosecurity, BMPs, and water quality in the context of promoting fish health and preventing fish kills in the cage aquaculture of Nile tilapia in Lake Victoria, Kenya. Gulf and open water locations were included in the study design. A semi‐structured questionnaire was used to gather qualitative information on the KAP of fish farmers to biosecurity and BMPs in the cage aquaculture farms. For water quality analysis, quantitative data was utilised. Results showed that the farmers had a positive attitude towards various biosecurity and BMP concepts and a moderate level of knowledge, but the practices on the farm were not in concurrence with both their attitudes and knowledge. Using a customised aquaculture performance index score, which assessed compliance to some BMPs and biosecurity, only 8% of the farms under investigation had a good score, while 24% had an average score and the majority (68%) had a poor score. Additionally, a good aquaculture performance index score was inversely related to ammonia levels. This finding suggests the need to locate cage fish farms in areas with better water circulation. The study highlights the need for capacity building on the importance of adherence to biosecurity and BMPs in the cage aquaculture of Nile tilapia in the lake for enhanced productivity and sustainability of the lake ecosystem.
Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 8 Contributes to Cystitis‐Induced Neuronal Sprouting and Pain Hypersensitivity Through AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway in Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome
Authors: Wu Liyang , Chang Ran , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism of TRPM8 in neuroproliferation and pain, as well as the relevance of the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in mice with IC/BPS.

Methods

The model of IC/BPS was established in wild and TRPM8−/− mice. The mechanical sensitivity was measured. The number of neurite segments, length of neurites, and density of neurites were all counted. IL‐6 and norepinephrine levels were detected by ELISA, Western blot was used to detect protein levels of TRPM8, Akt, p‐Akt, mTOR, p‐mTOR. Immunofluorescence was used to detect TRPM8 expression and distribution in neurites, neurons, and sensory nerves in mouse bladder tissue.

Results

Pain threshold in the IC/BPS group was decreased, and neurite segments, length, and density were all significantly enhanced when compared to the control group. The parameters in the IC/BPS model + Menthol group were more statistically significant. Neurite number and density were lower in TRPM8 knockout‐model mice than in IC/BPS model mice. The expression of TRPM8 and the ratios of p‐Akt/Akt and p‐mTOR/mTOR rose in the IC/BPS model group. In TRPM8 knockout‐model mice, the ratios of p‐Akt/Akt and p‐mTOR/mTOR were not substantially different from those in the control group. TRPM8 knockout‐model mice had considerably lower levels of serum IL‐6 and urine norepinephrine than IC/BPS model mice.

Conclusions

TRPM8 can induce pain hypersensitivity and sensory nerve proliferation by activating Akt/mTOR pathway and raising the expression of IL‐6 and norepinephrine in IC/BPS models. These findings offer new perspectives on IC/BPS treatment.
Damage detection for railway bridges using time‐frequency decomposition and conditional generative model
Authors: Lee Jun S. , Park Jeongjun , Kim Hyun Min , Kim Robin Eunju
Published: November 2024

A novel damage detection model, which utilizes the spatiotemporal characteristics of the acceleration data, is proposed to assess the structural integrity of railway bridges. For this, the measured acceleration data are decomposed into several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) using the sparse random mode decomposition model. The generated IMFs are subsequently integrated into the enhanced time series conditional generative adversarial network model to identify possible damage in bridges across various frequency bands. The influence of environmental and operational variables (EOVs), particularly temperature fluctuations, was also investigated. The proposed model was verified using both numerical and experimental data from a plate girder bridge. Further validation was conducted using the Z24 bridge dataset, and damage cases under the influence of EOVs were successfully predicted. Throughout the validation process, various anomaly metrics were introduced to establish a threshold value, and a covariance‐based time domain metric was proven to be the most effective in our cases.
The American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index‐Daily Diary (ANMS GCSI‐DD): Psychometric validation and meaningful change threshold in patients with idiopathic or diabetic gastroparesis
Authors: Chen Yaozhu J. , Coyne Karin S. , Rodriguez Danielle , Schulz Andrea , Huh Susanna Y. , Kuo Braden , Camilleri Michael , Tack Jan , Parkman Henry P.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index‐Daily Diary (ANMS GCSI‐DD) is a patient‐reported outcome (PRO) instrument for gastroparesis. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the ANMS GCSI‐DD and determined a meaningful change threshold using the data from a phase 2b trial in adults with moderate‐to‐severe idiopathic or diabetic gastroparesis (DG).

Methods

The psychometric properties of ANMS GCSI‐DD were analyzed using other clinician‐ and patient‐reported outcomes from 242 patients during the 12‐week trial. Trial exit interviews were conducted in a cohort of 32 patients to capture their perspectives on meaningful change from the trial.

Results

ANMS GCSI‐DD demonstrated good performance: unidimensionality scores exhibited good fit; internal consistency reliability was >0.70; test–retest reliability was above 0.90, and convergent validity showed strong correlations (0.70–0.90) with overall severity rating and moderate correlations (0.30–0.70) with other outcomes. ANMS GCSI‐DD scores discriminated among groups with varying severity of gastroparesis symptoms in known‐groups validity (p < 0.001) and were responsive to symptom improvement. Triangulation of the quantitative anchor‐based estimates of 0.9–1.4 category points as a meaningful change in the ANMS GCSI‐DD composite score, and the qualitative exit interview findings of 0.5–1.5 as meaningful change, supports a one‐point change on a five‐point scale (0–4) as the meaningful change threshold.

Conclusion

The ANMS GCSI‐DD is a reliable and valid PRO instrument to employ in clinical development for patients with moderate‐to‐severe idiopathic or DG, and a one‐point score change in the ANMS GCSI‐DD composite score is recommended as a meaningful change threshold of symptom change.
Do children with dysphagia and normal esophageal motility according to Chicago Classification always have “normal” esophageal motility?
Authors: Kovacic Karlo , Kern Mark , Li B U.K. , Vang Mychoua , Noe Joshua , Shaker Reza
Published: November 2024

Background

Internationally adopted Chicago Classification (CC) criteria based on adult normative data have been used to diagnose children with esophageal motility disorders undergoing high‐resolution esophageal manometry (HREM). The aim of this study was to compare HREM parameters of children without dysphagia and children with dysphagia and normal findings according to CC.

Methods

HREM metrics of 41 children (13.2 (9–18) years; 20 female) without dysphagia and 41 children (13.7 (8–18) years; 30 female) with dysphagia and normal diagnosis according to CC were compared. Analyzed data included resting and integrated relaxation pressures (IRP) of upper (UES) and lower (LES) esophageal sphincters, esophageal peristaltic contractile integrals, transition zone (TZ) gaps, distal latency (DL), and manometric esophageal length to height ratio (MELH). 95%ile normative cutoffs were calculated from the cohort without dysphagia.

Key Results

Proximal contractile integral (PCI), UES and LES mean resting and IRP were not significantly different between the cohorts (p > 0.3). On the contrary, distal contractile integral (DCI), TZ gap and MELH were notably different with p = 0.0002, p = 0.027, and p = 0.033 respectively. According to 95%ile normative cutoffs of DCI, TZ gap and MELH, in cohort with dysphagia 27%, 15%, and 22% of patients respectively were not normal.

Conclusion & Inferences

First study ever to compare HREM parameters of children without dysphagia to children with dysphagia. Considerable proportion of children with dysphagia may be underdiagnosed according to the adult criteria. This emphasizes the need for universally accepted child‐specific diagnostic protocols and norms.
“Liver Clots” in Periodontology: A 10‐Year Clinical Experience
Authors: Reddy Saravanan Sampoornam Pape , Francis Delfin Lovelina , Harish Ruchi , Raja Kumara , Chopra Sukhbir Singh
Published: November 2024

Objectives

“Liver clots” are an uncommon complication following periodontal surgery, characterized by their distinctive gelatinous consistency and color resembling 'liver' tissue. Despite anecdotal reports, there is a lack of comprehensive evidence in the literature regarding its incidence, etiopathogenesis and optimal management strategies. This study aimed to address this knowledge gap by retrospectively analyzing cases to provide insights into this unusual post‐operative complication.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective descriptive study, data spanning a decade (June 2013–June 2024) were collected from various dental centres. The data included patient demographics, medical history, surgical procedures performed, occurrence of “liver clot” formation, management measures and treatment outcomes.

Results

The 10‐year retrospective data revealed a 2.03% incidence of “liver clots” among various periodontal procedures. The highest occurrence was observed following dental extractions, followed by periodontal surgical procedures. The observations also indicated a higher frequency in systemically healthy individuals.

Conclusion

“Liver clot” formation is a rare, but specific complication after periodontal surgery. Minimally invasive management approaches are effective, highlighting the importance of vigilance and prompt intervention for optimal patient outcomes. Further research is warranted to elucidate the exact etiopathogenesis and to establish evidence‐based management protocols for this unusual complication.
The Globalization of International Migration? A Conceptual and Data‐Driven Synthesis
Authors: Ha Jasmine Trang , DeWaard Jack , Abel Guy , Tsuchiya Kazumi , Pinchoff Jessie , Levesque Christopher , Price Kobie
Published: November 2024

Although the globalization of international migration is commonly accepted as a general tendency in contemporary migration patterns (de Haas, Castles, and Miller 2020, 9), the corresponding body of empirical evidence is mixed and fragmented. Our review of global migration patterns over the past half‐century highlights how the theories, expectations, and ultimately findings may vary depending on the specific definitions, vantage points, and measures being used. In this paper, we provide a simpler and integrated account of the globalization of international migration that includes a corresponding empirical template to quantify the relative importance of two processes at work: the intensity and connectivity of international migration. Using recent estimates of country‐to‐country migration flows every five years from 1990–1995 to 2015–2020, our analysis using demographic decomposition and group‐based multitrajectory modeling highlights the dynamic relationship between intensity and connectivity from both the global and country vantage points. Our work in this paper provides a starting point in the form of a much‐needed empirical template, one that is also highly flexible and customizable, for future research on the globalization of international migration to coalesce around and use going forward.
TaWRKY17 Interacts With TaWRKY44 to Promote Expression of TaDHN7 for Salt Tolerance in Wheat
Authors: Jia Zhenzhen , Zeng Tuo , Gu Lei , Wang Hongcheng , Zhu Bin , Ren Mingjian , Du Xuye
Published: November 2024

Wheat is a crucial food crop, yet its production is continually threatened by abiotic stresses, particularly salt stress. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which wheat responds to salt stress is essential for developing salt‐tolerant varieties. In this study, we investigated the molecular pathway involving the wheat TaDHN7 in response to salt stress. The overexpression of TaDHN7 enhances salt tolerance and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging in wheat, while the knockout of TaDHN7 significantly impairs salt tolerance. Furthermore, we identified that TaWRKY44 promotes the expression of TaDHN7 by binding to the W‐box within the TaDHN7 promoter. Additionally, TaWRKY17 interacts with TaWRKY44, and this interaction enhances the protein stability of TaWRKY44 under salt stress, thereby enhancing its transcriptional regulatory capacity on TaDHN7. This study elucidates the TaWRKY17‐TaWRKY44‐TaDHN7 pathway in response to salt stress in wheat, providing valuable insights for the development of salt‐tolerant wheat cultivars.
Spectral network based on lattice convolution and adversarial training for noise-robust speech super-resolution
Authors: Yang Junkang , Liu Hongqing , Gan Lu , Jing Xiaorong
Published: November 2024

Speech super-resolution aims to predict a high-resolution speech signal from its low-resolution counterpart. The previous models usually perform this task at a fixed sampling rate, reconstructing only high-frequency spectrogram components and merging them with low-frequency ones in noise-free cases. These methods achieve high accuracy, but they are less effective in real-world settings, where ambient noise and flexible sampling rates are presented. To develop a robust model that fits practical applications, in this work, we introduce Super Denoise Net (SDNet), a neural network for noise-robust super-resolution with flexible input sampling rates. To this end, SDNet's design includes gated and lattice convolution blocks for enhanced repair and temporal-spectral information capture. The frequency transform blocks are employed to model long frequency dependencies, and a multi-scale discriminator is proposed to facilitate the multi-adversarial loss training. The experiments show that SDNet outperforms current state-of-the-art noise-robust speech super-resolution models on multiple test sets, indicating its robustness and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
A D* orthogonal matching pursuit algorithm for time-varying channel estimation
Authors: Jia Shuyang , Da Lianglong , Zou Sichen , Liu Baoheng , Zhang Xiaochuan
Published: November 2024

Orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) combined with the A* search algorithm (A*OMP) exhibits robust reconstruction capabilities for synthesizing sparse data and signals, achieving relatively low reconstruction errors and a higher exact recovery ability than conventional OMP. However, A*OMP is only suitable for static channel estimation and cannot be applied to dynamic scenarios. This is because the channel delays for several consecutive orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing blocks per frame are similar and the path gains exhibit temporal correlation. This paper introduces a dynamic OMP approach (D*OMP) that employs a heuristic function of A*OMP and a unique reverse process, enabling sparse solutions to be identified in unknown and changing environments. The proposed method is highly practical for joint channel estimation across multiple blocks. Simulation and sea trial results indicate that D*OMP not only possesses superior channel recovery accuracy, but also has a more efficient channel reconstruction process, outperforming both A*OMP and conventional OMP.
Viral dynamics in a high-rate algal pond reveals a burst of
Phycodnaviridae
diversity correlated with episodic algal mortality
Authors: Chase E. E. , Pitot T. , Bouchard S. , Triplet S. , Przybyla C. , Gobet A. , Desnues C. , Blanc G.
Published: November 2024

This study explores virus-host dynamics in a unique environment: an industrial high-rate algal pond (HRAP). A wealth of novel DNA algal viruses are revealed, including members of
Nucleocytoviricota
“giant viruses” and the enigmatic
Preplasmiviricota
(e.g., virophages and polinton-like viruses). Several species of single-celled eukaryotic photosynthetic algae are identified (Chlorophyta) as putative hosts, with alternating dominant populations during the year of study. We specifically observe a surprising diversity of giant viruses from the family
Phycodnaviridae
(
Nucleocytoviricota
), including phylogenetically related but highly diversified genotypes appearing in the HRAP that we suggest are implicated in bloom collapse. We hypothesize that these related
Phycodnaviridae
lineages infect the same algal species of the genus
Picochlorum
that has been identified in the HRAP. This study establishes a baseline for comprehending the role viruses play in algal farming and emphasizes the necessity of controlling the viral load in future culture system development to optimize algal growth.

IMPORTANCE

The virosphere is ubiquitous, but we have yet to characterize many environments where viruses exist. In an industrial polyculture of microalgae, a wealth of viruses persist, their diversity and dynamics changing over time and consequently give evidence of their evolution and ecological strategies. Several notable infectious agents of the culture’s algae appear, including giant viruses, polinton-like viruses, and a virophage. As our reliance and interest in algal compound-based cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and bio-plastics increases, so must our understanding of these systems, including the unique viruses that appear there.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided gastrojejunostomy for management of superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome
Authors: Jiang Joanna , Ramsey Mitchell , Crilley Tessa , Burlen Jordan
Published: November 2024

The mainstay of treatment for superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome involves aggressive enteral feeding distal to the area of obstruction. We present a case of palliative endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided gastrojejunostomy as management of SMA syndrome in a patient with concomitant metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Following the procedure, our patient demonstrated significantly improved tolerance of oral intake.
Barth syndrome: a rare cause of cardiomyopathy in neonates
Authors: Dalal Neha , Naranje Kirti , Moriangthem Amita , Singh Anita
Published: November 2024

Barth syndrome (BTHS) is one of the rare X linked recessive diseases that appear in infancy with a triad of myocardial and skeletal muscle diseases, neutropenia and growth retardation. The pathogenic variant ofTAFAZZINgene leads to BTHS, which encodes the TAFAZZIN protein of the inner membrane of the mitochondria, a phosphatidyltransferase involved in cardiolipin remodelling and functional maturation. We present a case of a neonate presenting with early-onset cardiomyopathy, neutropenia and failure to thrive with no family history of cardiac diseases. Echocardiography suggested a dilated left ventricle with non-compaction and a low ejection fraction. The baby was managed with diuretics and decongestive measures. Clinical exome sequencing detected a hemizygous novel splice site variant c.541+2 T>C inTAFAZZIN, confirming the diagnosis of BTHS.
Endogenous endophthalmitis caused byRothia dentocariosa
Authors: Hansraj Saarang , Upadhyaya Abhishek , Mitra Sanchita , Cherukuri Navya
Published: November 2024

We report a case of a late adolescent female who presented to us with complaints of acute, painful loss of vision in her left eye. Her visual acuity (VA) had reduced to perception of hand movements within a week. Slit lamp examination and ultrasonography revealed that the patient had endophthalmitis. She was treated with intravitreal antibiotics, pars plana vitrectomy, lensectomy and a 5000 centistoke silicone oil injection. The vitreous biopsy showed significant growth ofRothia dentocariosaon blood and chocolate agars. An infected lower mandibular tooth was identified as the infective focus and treated. Systemic evaluation did not reveal any other infections. 1 month after the final procedure, she achieved a VA of 20/60 and IOP of 11 mm Hg. The retina was attached, and the infection had completely resolved. This case of atypical endogenous endophthalmitis was managed with timely surgery and using silicone oil injection and showed a good outcome.
Choroidal effusion after initiation of topical dorzolamide treatment
Authors: Wang Derrick James , Chen Peter Feng , Chan Weilin , Fleming Gloria P
Published: November 2024

We report a case of unilateral serous choroidal effusion in a patient without prior glaucoma surgeries that developed within 1 week of starting topical dorzolamide. A Caucasian female in her 60s with a history of severe primary open-angle glaucoma in the left eye without prior glaucoma surgeries developed irritation and subsequently blurry vision in her left eye within 1 week of starting topical dorzolamide 2% in the left eye only. Funduscopic exam and B-scan ultrasound demonstrated a serous choroidal effusion in the nasal and temporal periphery. After discontinuing dorzolamide and initiating prednisolone and cycloplegic agents, the choroidal effusions fully resolved after 2 weeks, and vision returned to baseline. Choroidal effusion can occur as a result of an idiosyncratic reaction to topical dorzolamide even in patients without prior glaucoma surgeries. Immediate cessation of dorzolamide and treatment with steroid and cycloplegic agents result in good vision recovery for dorzolamide-induced choroidal effusion.
Art Pattern Design Based on Visual Semantic Segmentation and Evolutionary Algorithm Optimization
Authors: Qing Zhao
Published: November 2024

This paper aims to address the issue of traditional art patterns not fully leveraging contextual information in image semantic segmentation. It proposes a multi-level feature aggregation method for image semantic segmentation based on visual Transformer and coordinate attention adjustment (CA Adjustment). Initially, the input image is segmented into slices for linear projection, incorporating learnable positional embeddings to derive an encoded input sequence. Subsequently, employing a visual Transformer-based encoder, the image is transformed into patches to capture global context across the network. CA Adjustment is then introduced to adaptively merge fusion features and visual backbone features using weighted adjustments. Lastly, a multi-objective grasshopper optimization algorithm is designed based on a clustering evolution mechanism to further enhance algorithm performance. Extensive experimental results demonstrate that our proposed algorithm effectively models global contextual information for image feature extraction. Compared to existing advanced algorithms, our method achieves high segmentation accuracy in semantic segmentation tasks, consistently exceeding 95%. Ablation experiments further validate the efficacy of our approach, underscoring its broad applicability in high-precision image semantic segmentation.