bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of mevalonate pathway by macrophage‐specific delivery of atorvastatin prevents their pro‐inflammatory polarisation
Authors: Krejčová Gabriela , Ruphuy Gabriela , Šalamúnová Petra , Sonntag Erik , Štěpánek František , Bajgar Adam
Published: February 2024

Adjustment of the cellular metabolism of pro‐inflammatory macrophages is essential for their bactericidal function; however, it underlies the development of many human diseases if induced chronically. Therefore, intervention of macrophage metabolic polarisation has been recognised as a potent strategy for their treatment. Although many small‐molecule inhibitors affecting macrophage metabolism have been identified, their in vivo administration requires a tool for macrophage‐specific delivery to limit their potential side effects. Here, we establish Drosophila melanogaster as a simple experimental model for in vivo testing of macrophage‐specific delivery tools. We found that yeast‐derived glucan particles (GPs) are suitable for macrophage‐specific delivery of small‐molecule inhibitors. Systemic administration of GPs loaded with atorvastatin, the inhibitor of hydroxy‐methyl‐glutaryl‐CoA reductase (Hmgcr), leads to intervention of mevalonate pathway specifically in macrophages, without affecting HMGCR activity in other tissues. Using this tool, we demonstrate that mevalonate pathway is essential for macrophage pro‐inflammatory polarisation and individual's survival of infection.
The value of industrial relations research(ers): Activism inside and outside the UK Academy
Authors: Thomas Huw , Turnbull Peter
Published: February 2024

Based on an in‐depth study of the lived experiences of industrial relations (IR) researchers in the United Kingdom, we demonstrate that IR has survived and thrived as a result of activism both inside and outside the academy. By adapting teaching and research to reflect the contemporary problems for labor, appropriating the study of human resource management, and creating synergies between service, teaching and learning, and both pure and applied research, the field of IR has experienced renewed intellectual vitality. The activism of IR academics in the United Kingdom signifies a promising future and an experience that IR research(ers) elsewhere can draw on.
Political protection: The case of large‐scale oil spills and the stock prices of energy firms
Authors: Baig Ahmed S. , Blau Benjamin M. , Griffith Todd G. , Whitby Ryan J.
Published: February 2024

In this study, we utilize a sample of publicly traded US energy firms to investigate the stock market responses to 40 large‐scale oil spills. Our findings reveal that the stock prices of extraction and refining firms experience significant declines during the periods surrounding these oil spill incidents, and energy pipeline firms exhibit a relatively smaller decrease. These results underscore the risk exposure shared by all energy firms, irrespective of their direct involvement in the oil spill incident. Furthermore, our study uncovers an intriguing dynamic—the influence of political connections established through lobbying activities. We observe that these political ties serve to significantly mitigate the negative market reactions to oil spills. Our results suggest that, from the market's perspective, firms with political connections are less vulnerable to the impending costs associated with oil spills when compared to their non‐politically connected counterparts.
Phenotypic variability for early drought stress resistance in tetraploid wheat accessions correlates with terminal drought performance
Authors: Poggi Giovanni Maria , Corneti Simona , Aloisi Iris , Ventura Francesca
Published: February 2024

Durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) is a fundamental staple food for the countries of the Mediterranean basin. Climate change is predicted to cause a trend of increasing drought severity in this region in the near future, necessitating the improvement of durum wheat's resilience to drought stress. Using polyethylene glycol to simulate water scarcity, early vigour parameters in germinating seeds are quickly, easily and affordably assessed. Many screenings, however, only consider the seedling stage; consequently, genotypes identified as promising for cultivation in drought scenarios, may not show such features if drought appears in later phenological phases, as happens in Mediterranean climatic areas, generally prone to terminal drought. The correlation between drought stress resistance during the seedling stage (early vigour) and later stages in the life cycle is elusive due to the lack of scientific efforts. Here we used polyethylene glycol screening to classify fifty‐five tetraploid wheat accessions into three clusters (susceptible, medium resistant and highly resistant to drought), based on morpho‐physiological traits. These accessions included durum wheat cultivars and landraces, as well as ancestors like durum emmer wheat and wild emmer wheat. The results of the screenings were combined with subsequent pot experiments using nine randomly selected accessions, imposing terminal drought, and evaluating their performance. Principal component analysis was performed on data for net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration and grain yield. Notably, the genotypes that performed best in the pot experiments were also those that performed well in the screening. Highly resistant candidates had in fact higher physiological and performance parameters than susceptible candidates. In summary, polyethylene glycol screening of germinating seeds resulted to be suitable to predictively evaluate drought resistance in tetraploid wheat accessions under terminal drought conditions, typical of Mediterranean climate zones. The reported data, thus evidence of how this inexpensive and simple method might be efficiently applied for large‐scale phenotyping.
A comparative vignette study: Evaluating the potential role of a generative AI model in enhancing clinical decision‐making in nursing
Authors: Saban Mor , Dubovi Ilana
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study explores the potential of a generative artificial intelligence tool (ChatGPT) as clinical support for nurses. Specifically, we aim to assess whether ChatGPT can demonstrate clinical decision‐making equivalent to that of expert nurses and novice nursing students. This will be evaluated by comparing ChatGPT responses to clinical scenarios to those of nurses on different levels of experience.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Emergency room registered nurses (i.e. experts; n = 30) and nursing students (i.e. novices; n = 38) were recruited during March–April 2023. Clinical decision‐making was measured using three validated clinical scenarios involving an initial assessment and reevaluation. Clinical decision‐making aspects assessed were the accuracy of initial assessments, the appropriateness of recommended tests and resource use and the capacity to reevaluate decisions. Performance was also compared by timing response generations and word counts. Expert nurses and novice students completed online questionnaires (via Qualtrics), while ChatGPT responses were obtained from OpenAI.

Results

Concerning aspects of clinical decision‐making and compared to novices and experts: (1) ChatGPT exhibited indecisiveness in initial assessments; (2) ChatGPT tended to suggest unnecessary diagnostic tests; (3) When new information required re‐evaluation, ChatGPT responses demonstrated inaccurate understanding and inappropriate modifications. In terms of performance, the mean number of words utilized in ChatGPT answers was 27–41 times greater than that utilized by both experts and novices; and responses were provided approximately 4 times faster than those of novices and twice faster than expert nurses. ChatGPT responses maintained logical structure and clarity.

Conclusions

A generative AI tool demonstrated indecisiveness and a tendency towards over‐triage compared to human clinicians.

Impact

The study shows that it is important to approach the implementation of ChatGPT as a nurse's digital assistant with caution. More study is needed to optimize the model's training and algorithms to provide accurate healthcare support that aids clinical decision‐making.

Reporting method

This study adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines for reporting observational studies.

Patient or public contribution

Patients were not directly involved in the conduct of this study.
A systematic integrative review of specialized nurses' role to establish a culture of patient safety: A modelling perspective
Authors: Glarcher Manela , Vaismoradi Mojtaba
Published: February 2024

Aims

To understand specialized nurses' role in the culture of patient safety and their ability to promote and enforce it within healthcare.

Design

A systematic integrative review using the approach of Whittemore and Knafl.

Methods

Systematic literature search for qualitative, quantitative and mixed‐methods studies, followed by data evaluation, quality assessment, analysis and research synthesis with a narrative perspective. Findings were contextualized within a ‘framework for understanding the development of patient safety culture’.

Data Sources

Searches were conducted in PubMed [including MEDLINE], Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and EMBASE from Jan 2013 until Sep 2023.

Results

Sixteen studies published in English from six different countries were selected and used for research synthesis. Diverse enabling factors and enacting behaviours influencing specialized nurses' roles to promote patient safety culture were identified, mainly focusing on nurses' workload, professional experiences and organizational commitment. Patient safety outcomes focused on medication management, infection prevention, surveillance process in critical care, oversight on quality and safety of nurses' practice, patient care management, continuity of care, adherence to the treatment plan and implementation of a specialized therapeutic procedure.

Conclusion

Specialized nurses can make a significant contribution to promote patient safety culture and support organizational initiatives to prevent adverse events.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Stronger participation and leadership of specialized nurses in initiatives to improve patient safety culture requires appropriate investments and support by policy makers and managers in terms of resources and training.

Impact

There is a gap in existing literature on the contribution that specialized nurses can make in promoting patient safety culture. Review results highlight the importance of interprofessional collaboration and teamwork by involving specialized nurses. They inform healthcare policy makers about recognizing their roles and competencies in patient safety culture.

Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis.

No patient or public contribution.
Health professionals’ perceptions of the development needs of incident reporting software: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Koskiniemi Saija , Syyrilä Tiina , Hämeen‐Anttila Katri , Manias Elizabeth , Härkänen Marja
Published: February 2024

Aim

To systemically identify and synthesize information on health professionals’ and students’ perceptions regarding the development needs of incident reporting software.

Design

A systematic review of qualitative studies.

Data Sources

A database search was conducted using Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and Medic without time or language limits in February 2023.

Review methods

A total of 4359 studies were identified. Qualitative studies concerning the perceptions of health professionals and students regarding the development needs of incident reporting software were included, based on screening and critical appraisal by two independent reviewers. A thematic synthesis was conducted.

Results

From 10 included studies, five analytical themes were analysed. Health professionals and students desired the following improvements or changes to incident reporting software: (1) the design of reporting software, (2) the anonymity of reporting, (3) the accessibility of reporting software, (4) the classification of fields and answer options and (5) feedback and tracking of reports. Wanted features included suitable reporting forms for various specialized fields that could be integrated into existing hospital information systems. Rapid, user‐friendly reporting software using multiple reporting platforms and with flexible fields and predefined answer options was preferred. While anonymous reporting was favoured, the idea of reporting serious incidents with both patient and reporter names was also suggested.

Conclusion

Health professionals and students provided concrete insights into the development needs for reporting software. Considering the underreporting of healthcare cases, the perspectives of healthcare professionals must be considered while developing user‐friendly reporting tools. Reporting software that facilitates the reporting process could reduce underreporting.

Reporting Method

The ENTREQ reporting guideline was used to support the reporting of this systematic review.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public contribution.

Protocol Registration

The protocol is registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews with register number CRD42023393804.
Mapping the duration and severity of preschool‐aged children's depressive moods and behaviors
Authors: Bufferd Sara J. , Isaac Akira J. , Olino Thomas M. , Dougherty Lea R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Depressive moods and behaviors are developmentally normative, yet potentially impairing, in preschool‐aged children. In addition to frequency, duration of behavior is an important parameter to consider when characterizing risk for worsening mood dysregulation. The goal of this study was to identify the duration and severity of depressive moods and behaviors and associations with impairment in a large community sample of preschool‐aged children using an online parent‐report daily diary.

Methods

Primary caregivers (N = 900) of 3–5‐year‐old children reported the daily duration of each instance of seven depressive moods and behaviors for 14 days. We used item response theory analyses to examine duration item characteristics.

Results

Moods and behaviors occurred at specific durations to be considered psychometrically severe/rare; for example, instances of sadness had to last an average total of 32 min per day or more, irritability at least 38 min, tantrums at least 30 min, and tearfulness/sensitivity at least 35 min. Longer durations of mood and behavior were associated with daily impairment, as well as older child age and less parental education.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to delineate specific duration ranges for depressive moods and behaviors in preschool‐aged children. These data, coupled with information about the frequency of mood‐related behaviors, can assist child practitioners in differentiating normative patterns from less normative mood problems to evaluate which children may be at risk. Future work should identify the duration of depressive moods and behaviors in early childhood that predict clinically significant psychopathology over time.
Interactive calculator to estimate insulin sensitivity in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Januszewski Andrzej S , Niedzwiecki Pawel , Sachithanandan Nirupa , Ward Glenn M , O’Neal David N , Zozulinska‐Ziolkiewicz Dorota A , Uruska Aleksandra A , Jenkins Alicia J
Published: February 2024

The gold standard for measuring insulin sensitivity (IS) is the hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp, a time, costly, and labor‐intensive research tool. A low insulin sensitivity is associated with a complication‐risk in type 1 diabetes. Various formulae using clinical data have been developed and correlated with measured IS in type 1 diabetes. We consolidated multiple formulae into an online calculator (bit.ly/estimated‐GDR), enabling comparison of IS and its probability of IS <4.45 mg/kg/min (low) or >6.50 mg/kg/min (high), as measured in a validation set of clamps in 104 adults with type 1 diabetes. Insulin sensitivity calculations using different formulae varied significantly, with correlations (R2) ranging 0.005–0.87 with agreement in detecting low and high glucose disposal rates in the range 49–93% and 89–100%, respectively. We demonstrate that although the calculated IS varies between formulae, their interpretation remains consistent. Our free online calculator offers a user‐friendly tool for individual IS calculations and also offers efficient batch processing of data for research.
Caution: Do Not Cross! Distance to Regulatory Capital Buffers and Corporate Lending in a Downturn
Authors: COUAILLIER CYRIL , LO DUCA MARCO , REGHEZZA ALESSIO , RODRIGUEZ D'ACRI COSTANZA
Published: February 2024

While banks are expected to draw down regulatory capital buffers in case of need during a crisis, we find that banks kept at a safe distance from regulatory buffers during the pandemic by procyclically reducing corporate lending. By exploiting granular credit register data, we show that banks with little capital headroom above their buffers reduced credit supply and that this behavior was amplified for banks that entered the crisis with larger undrawn credit lines. Affected firms were unable to fully rebalance their borrowing needs with other banks, although public guarantees mitigated banks' procyclical behavior and its real effect at the firm level. These findings raise concerns that the capital buffers introduced by Basel III may not be as countercyclical as intended.
Associations between nurse characteristics, institutional characteristics and perceived nurse knowledge and self‐efficacy of reporting suspected child abuse and neglect
Authors: Winqust Anna , Burduli Ekaterina , Eddy Linda L. , Landis Tullamora , Fraser Jennifer , Barbosa Leiker Celestina
Published: February 2024

Aim

To determine the association between nurse and institutional characteristics and perceived professional nurse knowledge and self‐efficacy of reporting child abuse and neglect.

Design

A sample of N = 166 nurses were recruited to respond to the Reporting of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (RSCAN) survey.

Methods

A multiple linear regression examined whether nurse characteristics and institutional characteristics were associated with the two RSCAN survey domain scores.

Results

Perceived knowledge of a workplace child abuse and neglect protocol was associated with the knowledge subscale. Education and child abuse and neglect expertise were significant predictors of the self‐efficacy subscale. Nurses with a master's or higher degree and those who identified as being either forensic, paediatric or Emergency Department nurses, had less perceived institutional barriers to self‐efficacy of reporting child abuse and neglect.

Conclusion

This study provides a preliminary insight into the institutional barriers and facilitators of nurses as child abuse and neglect mandated reporters.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

To encourage innovative education and collaborations to support nurses as fully informed child abuse and neglect mandated reporters.

Impact

This research identifies the gaps and facilitators of nurses as child abuse and neglect mandated reporters to inform healthcare professionals and academic institutions on the importance of nurse education and experience in nurse knowledge and self‐efficacy in reporting suspected child abuse and neglect.

Reporting methods

The authors of this study have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines: STROBE.

Patient or public contribution

There is no patient or public contribution as the study only looked at nurses.
First‐trimester preterm preeclampsia prediction model for prevention with low‐dose aspirin
Authors: Pooh Ritsuko Kimata
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Preeclampsia (PE) is a major maternal and fetal threat. Previous risk‐scoring methods in guidelines lacked precision. The Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) proposed a first‐trimester PE screening model using Bayes' theorem.

PE Prediction Model

FMF prediction model combines maternal characteristics and medical/obstetrical history to determine prior risk and further incorporate maternal blood pressure, maternal serum biomarkers, and uterine Doppler pulsatility index expressed as multiples of the median (MoM) to estimate posterior risk.

Low‐Dose Aspirin Prevention

Low‐dose aspirin is one of the potential PE prevention strategies. Initiating it before 16 weeks is crucial. Aspirin's antiplatelet and anti‐inflammatory properties align with PE's pathophysiology. Dosing and resistance warrant further study, but a standard regimen of 150 mg nightly, starting before 16 weeks, is widely supported.

PE Prevention in Practice

Clinical trials, including ASPRE, affirm aspirin's role in PE prevention. Starting aspirin based on FMF screening significantly reduces preterm PE and associated complications.

Advancements and Prospects

Emerging research explores predictors like maternal ophthalmic arterial waveform. Regional variations, especially in Asian populations, are considered. Machine learning and AI show promise, but examiner expertise remains essential for accurate prediction.

In conclusion, integrating FMF's first‐trimester PE screening with low‐dose aspirin offers a promising strategy. Further advancements may enhance precision and broaden prevention efforts.
Using mixed methods approaches to study families and relationships
Authors: Thomeer Mieke Beth , Brantley Mia , Hernandez Elaine M.
Published: February 2024

Mixed methods research—methodologies that synthesize qualitative and quantitative approaches in the design, collection, analysis, and dissemination of research related to a specific topic or aim—is increasingly common, offering innovative empirical insight into families and relationships. We first elaborate on our definition of mixed methods research, emphasizing that there is significant heterogeneity within mixed methods approaches to studying families and relationships. Second, we discuss benefits of mixed methods projects within family and relationship research, including theory building and innovation. Third, we provide practical suggestions for designing and implementing a mixed methods project, highlighting useful resources for researchers as they develop research questions, plan designs, collect and analyze data, and disseminate findings. We emphasize the unique opportunities from abductive analytic approaches for mixed methods researchers and point to the need for reflexivity. Fourth, we consider common obstacles associated with disseminating mixed methods research and explain why family researchers need “mixed methods literacy” regardless of their research paradigm. Finally, we identify key areas of future growth for mixed methods researchers. We advocate that understanding mixed methods research has practical benefits, even for researchers not using these approaches. To cohesively build—and critique—our knowledge of families and relationships, family and relationship researchers across paradigms should be familiar with the basic tenets, strengths, and limitations of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research.
Impact of oral health management by nurses and dental professionals on oral health status in inpatients eligible for the Nutrition Support Team: A longitudinal study
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Furuya Junichi , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Hidaka Rena , Yoshimi Kanako , Shimizu Yukue , Saito Keiko , Hatanaka Yukiko , Mukai Tomoko , Itsui Yasuhiro , Tohara Haruka , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: February 2024

Objective

As the participation of dental professionals in multidisciplinary care is often limited, instructions on oral health management provided by dental professionals to other professionals are important to achieve transdisciplinary oral health management; however, the effectiveness of such instructions remains unclear. In this longitudinal study, we aimed to determine the impact of oral health management provided by dental professionals and nurses instructed on oral health management by dental professionals on the oral health of inpatients eligible for a Nurition Support Team (NST).

Methods

The study participants were 117 patients (66 men and 51 women, mean age: 71.9 ± 12.5 years) who received oral health management during the NST intervention period. The participants received oral health management from nurses (Ns group) or dental professionals (D group). The nurses who conducted the oral health management received instructions from dental professionals. Oral health was assessed at the beginning and end of the NST intervention using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT).

Result

The Ns and D groups showed significant improvements in the total OHAT scores at the end of the NST intervention. Both groups showed significant improvements in the OHAT subitems of lip, tongue, gums and tissues, saliva, oral cleanliness and dental pain, while only the D group showed a significant improvement in the denture subitem.

Conclusion

Effective oral health management provided by dental professionals or by nurses trained by them improved the oral health status of inpatients eligible for NST at an acute‐care hospital.
Episodic Future Thinking Reduces Delay Discounting of Gains and Losses: The Role of Regulatory Focus
Authors: Tang Li , Toyama Miki
Published: February 2024

We examined the moderating effect of regulatory foci on the efficacy of episodic future thinking in reducing delay discounting. We hypothesized that the impact of imagining positive future events (vs. recent positive events) on delay discounting of gains would be stronger for individuals with a high promotion focus than for those with a high prevention focus (Hypothesis 1). Conversely, the effects of imagining adverse future events (vs. recent negative events) on delay discounting of losses would be stronger for individuals with a high prevention focus than for those with a high promotion focus (Hypothesis 2). We conducted two experiments in which participants, randomly allocated to episodic future thinking (EFT) or episodic recent thinking (ERT) groups, completed a delayed discounting task of gain (Experiment 1) or loss (Experiment 2). Experiment 1 (N = 73) weakly supported Hypothesis 1; Experiment 2 (N = 99) did not support Hypothesis 2. Our findings suggest positive EFT is particularly effective for individuals with a high promotion focus compared to individuals with a high prevention focus, which further reveals how EFT attenuates delay discounting.
Pluralistic Ignorance did not Prevent Paternity Leave in Japan in December 2021: A Replication Study
Authors: Kawamura Yuta , Totake Kanatsu
Published: February 2024

In recent times, the circumstances surrounding childcare leave in Japan have undergone substantial change. The present study aimed to replicate the study by Miyajima and Yamaguchi (2017), who demonstrated that pluralistic ignorance inhibits paternity leave. Our preregistered replication survey, which comprised 222 employed males, found that participants recognized others' attitudes toward paternity leave as more negative than they actually were. This result indicates that, as in the previous study, pluralistic ignorance about paternity leave still exists. However, unlike Miyajima and Yamaguchi's (2017) work, pluralistic ignorance did not inhibit participants' willingness to take paternity leave. The potential causes of these differences are discussed.
Socioeconomic Advantage or Community Attachment? A Register‐Based Study on the Difference in National Lutheran Church Affiliation Between Finnish and Swedish Speakers in Finland
Authors: Xia Weiqian , Kolk Martin , Saarela Jan
Published: February 2024

Secularization theory has been challenged by research showing religious persistence and upswing in contexts across the world. In Europe, particularly in highly secular and historically religiously homogeneous Nordic settings, there has been little research, and representative data for minority groups are rare. We offer a pioneering study using national register data to study religious changes over the past five decades in Finland, where the two native ethnolinguistic groups—Finnish and Swedish speakers—offer a unique study context. We use register data with yearly information on every individual's religious affiliation to compare the two groups, exploring the mechanisms behind any differentials. Swedish speakers are found to be consistently more affiliated with the National Lutheran Church than Finnish speakers. This finding contradicts the expectation of modernization theory because the Swedish‐speaking population is, in some aspects, socioeconomically advantaged in Finnish society. The higher affiliation level of Swedish speakers can be partly explained by lower levels of internal migration, which is possibly driven by stronger community attachment. Our results suggest that community cohesion may help preserve the religious tradition of a minority group, even in the absence of socioeconomic disadvantages or threats from the majority.
Is food preference innate instinct driven or human's free will?
Authors: Shi Weiyue , Eidenberger Thomas
Published: February 2024

The question whether food preference decisions are controlled by innate instincts, or a conscious decision‐making process is still open. The answer to this question is important not only for neuroscientists, psychologists, and philosophers but also for food scientists and developers. Looking from different perspectives involved in food preference decisions could not only settle a long ongoing debate but also pave the way to understand why people prefer to eat what they eat.
Validation of dried blood spots for capturing hepatitis C virus diversity for genomic surveillance
Authors: Tully Damien C. , Power Karen A. , Sarette Jacklyn , Stopka Thomas J. , Friedmann Peter D. , Korthuis P. Todd , Cooper Hannah , Young April M. , Seal David W. , Westergaard Ryan P. , Allen Todd M.
Published: February 2024

Dried blood spots (DBS) have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional venous blood for hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing. However, their capacity to accurately reflect the genetic diversity of HCV remains poorly understood. We employed deep sequencing and advanced phylogenetic analyses on paired plasma and DBS samples from two common subtypes to evaluate the suitability of DBS for genomic surveillance. Results demonstrated that DBS captured equivalent viral diversity compared to plasma with no phylogenetic discordance observed. The ability of DBS to accurately reflect the profile of viral genetic diversity suggests it may be a promising avenue for future surveillance efforts to curb HCV outbreaks.
Application of eprinomectin‐containing parasiticides at label doses causes neurological toxicosis in cats homozygous for ABCB11930_1931del TC
Authors: Mealey Katrina L. , Burke Neal S. , Villarino Nicolas F. , Court Michael H. , Heusser Jennifer P.
Published: February 2024

The feline MDR1 mutation (ABCB11930_1931delTC) has been associated with neurological toxicosis after topical application of eprinomectin products labeled for feline use. Information was collected from veterinarians who submitted samples for ABCB11930_1931delTC genotyping. In most cases, the submission form indicated an adverse event involving eprinomectin, in other cases submitting veterinarians were contacted to determine whether the patient had experienced an adverse drug event involving eprinomectin. If so, additional information was obtained to determine whether the case met inclusion criteria. 14 cases were highly consistent with eprinomectin toxicosis. Eight cats were homozygous for ABCB11930_1931del TC (3 died; 5 recovered). Six cats were homozygous wildtype (2 died; 4 recovered). The observed ABCB11930_1931delTC frequency (57%) was higher than the expected frequency (≤1%) in the feline population (Fisher Exact test, p < 0.01). Among wildtype cats, four were concurrently treated with potential competitive inhibitors of P‐glycoprotein. Results indicate that topical eprinomectin products, should be avoided in cats homozygous for ABCB11930_1931delTC. This is a serious, preventable adverse event occurring in an identifiable subpopulation treated with FDA‐approved products in accordance with label directions. Acquired P‐glycoprotein deficiency resulting from drug interactions may enhance susceptibility to eprinomectin‐induced neurological toxicosis in any cat, regardless of ABCB1 genotype.
Mechanical properties of minerals in lunar and HED meteorites from nanoindentation testing: Implications for space mining
Authors: Peña‐Asensio Eloy , Trigo‐Rodríguez Josep M. , Sort Jordi , Ibáñez-Insa Jordi , Rimola Albert
Published: February 2024

This study analyzes the mechanical and elemental properties of lunar meteorites DHOFAR 1084, JAH 838, NWA 11444, and HED meteorite NWA 6013. Utilizing microscale rock mechanics experiments, that is, nanoindentation testing, this research reveals significant heterogeneity in both mechanical and elemental attributes across the mineral samples. Olivines, pyroxene, feldspar, and spinel demonstrate similar compositional and mechanical characteristics. Conversely, other silicate and oxide minerals display variations in their mechanical properties. Terrestrial olivines subjected to nanoindentation tests exhibit increased hardness and a higher Young's modulus than their lunar counterparts. A linear correlation is observed between the H/Er ratio and both plastic and elastic energies. Additionally, the alignment of mineral phases along a constant H/Er ratio suggests variations in local porosity. This study also highlights the need for further research focusing on porosity, phase insertions within the matrix, and structural orientations to refine our understanding of these mechanical characteristics. The findings have direct implications for in situ resource utilization strategies and future state‐of‐the‐art impact models. This comprehensive characterization serves as a foundational resource for future research efforts in space science and mining.
Genetic basis of variation in thermal developmental plasticity for Drosophila melanogaster body pigmentation
Authors: Lafuente E. , Duneau D. , Beldade P.
Published: February 2024

Seasonal differences in insect pigmentation are attributed to the influence of ambient temperature on pigmentation development. This thermal plasticity is adaptive and heritable, and thereby capable of evolving. However, the specific genes contributing to the variation in plasticity that can drive its evolution remain largely unknown. To address this, we analysed pigmentation and pigmentation plasticity in Drosophila melanogaster. We measured two components of pigmentation in the thorax and abdomen: overall darkness and the proportion of length covered by darker pattern elements (a trident in the thorax and bands in the abdomen) in females from two developmental temperatures (17 or 28°C) and 191 genotypes. Using a GWAS approach to identify the genetic basis of variation in pigmentation and its response to temperature, we identified numerous dispersed QTLs, including some mapping to melanogenesis genes (yellow, ebony, and tan). Remarkably, we observed limited overlap between QTLs for variation within specific temperatures and those influencing thermal plasticity, as well as minimal overlap between plasticity QTLs across pigmentation components and across body parts. For most traits, consistent with selection favouring the retention of plasticity, we found that lower plasticity alleles were often at lower frequencies. The functional analysis of selected candidate QTLs and pigmentation genes largely confirmed their contributions to variation in pigmentation and/or pigmentation plasticity. Overall, our study reveals the existence and underlying basis of extensive and trait‐specific genetic variation for pigmentation and pigmentation plasticity, offering a rich reservoir of raw material for natural selection to shape the evolution of these traits independently.
In Staphylococcus aureus, the acyl‐CoA synthetase MbcS supports branched‐chain fatty acid synthesis from carboxylic acid and aldehyde precursors
Authors: dos Santos Ferreira Marcelle C. , Pendleton Augustus , Yeo Won‐Sik , Málaga Gadea Fabiana C. , Camelo Danna , McGuire Maeve , Brinsmade Shaun R.
Published: February 2024

In the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, branched‐chain fatty acids (BCFAs) are the most abundant fatty acids in membrane phospholipids. Strains deficient for BCFAs synthesis experience auxotrophy in laboratory culture and attenuated virulence during infection. Furthermore, the membrane of S. aureus is among the main targets for antibiotic therapy. Therefore, determining the mechanisms involved in BCFAs synthesis is critical to manage S. aureus infections. Here, we report that the overexpression of SAUSA300_2542 (annotated to encode an acyl‐CoA synthetase) restores BCFAs synthesis in strains lacking the canonical biosynthetic pathway catalyzed by the branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase (BKDH) complex. We demonstrate that the acyl‐CoA synthetase activity of MbcS activates branched‐chain carboxylic acids (BCCAs), and is required by S. aureus to utilize the isoleucine derivative 2‐methylbutyraldehyde to restore BCFAs synthesis in S. aureus. Based on the ability of some staphylococci to convert branched‐chain aldehydes into their respective BCCAs and our findings demonstrating that branched‐chain aldehydes are in fact BCFAs precursors, we propose that MbcS promotes the scavenging of exogenous BCCAs and mediates BCFA synthesis via a de novo alternative pathway.
Identification of primary metabolites in fungal species of Trichophyton mentagrophyte and Trichophyton rubrum by NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Parihar Rashmi , Singh Upendra , Das Anupam , Baishya Bikash , Singh Vikramjeet , Ahirwar S.C. , Islahi Sana , Sen Manodeep , Mittal Vineeta
Published: February 2024

Background

Superficial mycoses are fungal infections limited to the outermost layers of the skin and its appendages. The chief causative agents of these mycoses are dermatophytes and yeasts. The diagnosis of dermatophytosis can be made by direct mycological examination with potassium hydroxide (10%–30%) of biological material obtained from patients with suspected mycosis, providing results more rapid than fungal cultures, which may take days or weeks. This information, together with clinical history and laboratory diagnosis, ensures that the appropriate treatment is initiated promptly. However, false negative results are obtained in 5%–15%, by conventional methods of diagnosis of dermatophytosis.

Objectives

To study the metabolic profiles of the commonly occurring dermatophytes by NMR spectroscopy.

Patients/Materials

We have used 1D and 2D Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) experiments along with Human Metabolome Database (HMDB) and Chenomx database search for identification of primary metabolites in the methanol extract of two fungal species: Trichophyton mentagrophyte (T. mentagrophyte) and Trichophyton rubrum (T. rubrum). Both standard strains and representative number of clinical isolates of these two species were investigated. Further, metabolic profiles obtained were analysed using multivariate analysis.

Results

We have identified 23 metabolites in the T. mentagrophyte and another 23 metabolites in T. rubrum. Many important metabolites like trehalose, proline, mannitol, acetate, GABA and several other amino acids were detected, which provide the necessary components for fungal growth and metabolism. Altered metabolites were defined between Trichophyton mentagrophyte and T. rubrum strains.

Conclusion

We have detected many metabolites in the two fungal species T. mentagrophyte and T. rubrum by using NMR spectroscopy. NMR spectroscopy provides a holistic snapshot of the metabolome of an organism. Key metabolic differences were identified between the two fungal strains. We need to perform more studies on metabolite profiling of the samples from these species for their rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment.
A clinical prevalence of dermatophytic mycoses with an assessment of its clinical manifestations in a tertiary care hospital at Salem, South India
Authors: Balasubramanian Arul , Akbar Ali Nazer Ali , Pugazhenthi Atchaya , Gopalan Kannan , Tamil Selvan Silambarasan , Ramalingam Kothai
Published: February 2024

Background

Dermatophytosis is very common among all age groups throughout the world. The incidence of the same is increasing on a steady basis.

Aim

Estimating the clinical prevalence of dermatophytes mycoses among the patients visiting the outpatient unit and assessing its distinct manifestations.

Methodology

A prospective observational study was conducted with the patients attending the Skin and STD outpatient unit of a tertiary care teaching hospital in Salem. A total of 3068 outpatients attended the department, of which 420 patients were diagnosed with dermatophytic mycoses and were taken for investigating the prevalence.

Results

A total of 420 dermatophytosis patients were included giving a percentage prevalence of 13.69%. There were more female patients (n = 213, 50.71%) than males (n = 207, 49.29%). The most common afflicted age group was 31–40 years (n = 99, 50.71%). Most of the patients had an atypical lesion called tinea incognita (n = 265, 63.09%) where there was no typical classic appearance of dermatophytic infections. The most prevalent clinical manifestation was tinea corporis (n = 73, 17.38%) followed by tinea cruris (n = 69, 16.43%). There were more newly diagnosed dermatophytosis cases (n = 326) than the previously diagnosed cases (n = 94).

Conclusion

This study concludes that dermatophytic mycoses were more prevalent among females than males and among the age groups of 31–40 years. The most common clinical presentation was tinea incognita followed by tinea corporis.
Functional diversity of snake locomotor behaviors: A review of the biological literature for bioinspiration
Authors: Tingle Jessica L. , Garner Kelsey L. , Astley Henry C.
Published: February 2024

Organismal solutions to natural challenges can spark creative engineering applications. However, most engineers are not experts in organismal biology, creating a potential barrier to maximally effective bioinspired design. In this review, we aim to reduce that barrier with respect to a group of organisms that hold particular promise for a variety of applications: snakes. Representing >10% of tetrapod vertebrates, snakes inhabit nearly every imaginable terrestrial environment, moving with ease under many conditions that would thwart other animals. To do so, they employ over a dozen different types of locomotion (perhaps well over). Lacking limbs, they have evolved axial musculoskeletal features that enable their vast functional diversity, which can vary across species. Different species also have various skin features that provide numerous functional benefits, including frictional anisotropy or isotropy (as their locomotor habits demand), waterproofing, dirt shedding, antimicrobial properties, structural colors, and wear resistance. Snakes clearly have much to offer to the fields of robotics and materials science. We aim for this review to increase knowledge of snake functional diversity by facilitating access to the relevant literature.
Cephalometric changes of pushing splints 3 compared to rapid maxillary expansion and facemask therapy on the airway space in class III growing patients: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Galeotti Angela , Viarani Valeria , Franchi Lorenzo , Martina Stefano , Rongo Roberto , D'Antò Vincenzo , Uomo Roberto , Aristei Francesco , Festa Paola
Published: February 2024

Background

Early orthopaedic treatment with rapid maxillary expansion (RME) associated with facemask (FM) has been shown to be effective in correcting Class III malocclusions in children. Treatment with pushing splints 3 (PS3) has shown to correct skeletal discrepancies in Class III growing patients. However, the effects of orthopaedic treatment on the upper airways in children with Class III malocclusion is controversial.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cephalometric changes in the airways of PS3 compared to the RME/FM protocol.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 48 patients with Class III malocclusion (age range 5.5–8.5 years old) were selected for this study, and 24 were treated with PS3 appliance and 24 with RME/FM therapy. Lateral cephalograms before (T0) and at the end of the treatment (T1) were analysed to compare pharyngeal spaces. Paired and unpaired t tests were used for data analysis (P < .05).

Results

A total of 41 patients (21 patients for the PS3 group, 11 males and 10 females, mean age 7.0 ± 1.2 years; 20 patients for the RME/FM group, 10 males and 10 females, mean age 7.2 ± 1.3 years) were included. The results showed a statistically significant (P < .05) increase in the nasopharyngeal space after both therapies. However, the effects were similar considering that there were no differences between groups for the assessed variables at T0–T1.

Conclusions

Early treatment of Class III malocclusion with PS3 does not induce a statistically significant increase in the sagittal airway space compared to RME/FM. The absence of untreated group could not define the role of growth in the increase of space.
Global uncertainties, geopolitical risks and price exuberance: Evidence from international energy market
Authors: Mamman Suleiman O. , Iliyasu Jamilu , Ahmed Umar A. , Salami Felicity
Published: February 2024

The interaction of global uncertainty and geopolitical risks with energy price fluctuations has remained a critical global issue. This interaction can impact several regions' macroeconomic performance and welfare by making fundamental energy price forecasting more difficult, which may lead to exuberant behaviour. To help producers, consumers, and regulators make informed decisions in the face of volatile and uncertain energy markets, it is critical to highlight how these uncertainties influence price exuberance. In this light, this study examines the impact of global uncertainty and geopolitical risks on international energy price exuberance using monthly data from January 1990 to October 2022. The study employs supremum augmented Dickey–Fuller (SADF) and generalised augmented Dickey–Fuller (GSADF) tests to identify energy price exuberance. Firstly, consistent with exuberant behaviour, the tests identify seven episodes of explosive behaviour in the international energy prices within the sample. Secondly, this study applies the Logit model to estimate the impact of global uncertainty and geopolitical risks on price exuberance. The estimates suggest that the heightening of global uncertainty may deflate the price exuberance. This study also observes that adverse geopolitical risks (threats and acts) in the world and Ukraine amplify the likelihood of price exuberance in the market. However, adverse geopolitical risk (GPR) in Russia negatively impacted the formation of price exuberance. This finding implies that policymakers can use global uncertainty and geopolitical risks as early warning indicators of probable price exuberance in the international energy market. The findings also indicate the need for a buffer system and safe passage for the flow of energy supply in a geopolitical conflict or a major global event. The study further shows the need for a coordinated effort in innovation, research, and development to enhance energy efficiency and minimise reliance on fossil fuels, which these uncertainties may not significantly influence.