bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal dynamics of scent mark composition in field‐experimental lizard populations
Authors: Baeckens Simon , Martín José , Pafilis Panayiotis , Herrel Anthony , Donihue Colin M.
Published: October 2024

Animal signals are dynamic traits that can undergo considerable spatial and temporal changes and that are influenced by factors such as age, health condition and interactions with both the abiotic and biotic environment. However, much of our understanding of signal changes throughout an individual's lifetime stems from cross‐sectional, often laboratory‐based, studies focused on visual and auditory signals. Longitudinal field investigations of temporal variation in chemical signals, especially in vertebrates, remain rare despite chemical communication being the most ubiquitous form of information exchange in the natural world.

To remedy this, we conducted a unique, replicated field experiment to study the temporal signal dynamics in free‐living lizard populations on natural islands. Specifically, we collected scent marks from individually marked lizards across five populations during the spring of two consecutive years and analysed the lipophilic chemical composition of these scent marks.

Our findings demonstrate that the overall scent mark composition of individual lizards changed over time, shifting consistently in both direction and magnitude from year to year among individuals and across replicate populations. Similar patterns were observed for the chemical richness and diversity of scent marks. Temporal variation in the relative proportions of three potentially socially relevant signalling compounds in lizard scent marks revealed a more complex pattern: α‐tocopherol remained stable over time, oleic acid decreased and the change in octadecanoic acid proportion was body size‐dependent.

Together, our results provide novel insights into how individual vertebrate chemical signals may fluctuate across space and time. We discuss the potential causes of the observed temporal variability and its consequences for chemical signal evolution.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Health inequalities and contemporary youth: Young people’s accounts of the social determinants of health in an ‘austere meritocracy’
Authors: Fergie Gillian , Smith Katherine , Vaczy Caroline , Mackenzie Mhairi , Hilton Shona
Published: October 2024

Young people coming of age amidst widespread socioeconomic uncertainty have a unique vantage from which to interpret how social, economic and environmental factors might influence health and the generation of health inequalities. Despite this, only a small number of existing studies of ‘lay’ understandings of health inequalities have focused on young people. This arts‐based qualitative study builds on that body of research, in the context of the UK, to explore how young people make sense of health inequalities. Across two sites, Glasgow and Leeds, six groups of young people (39 in total) took part in online workshops to explore their perspectives. Throughout they engaged with population health research evidence; contributed to group discussions and responded creatively, via visual and performance art and by articulating their own views and experiences. In this paper, we explore how individual and structural explanations for health inequalities emerged, employing concepts from sociological studies of youth to shed light on these accounts. In particular, we argue that the concept of ‘austere meritocracy’, the persistence of narratives of aspiration and hard work as key to success against an increasingly hostile socio‐economic backdrop, helps explain young people’s perspectives on health inequalities in the UK.
The effect of handedness and biological sex on fingermark ridge height and volume as examined by 3D imaging
Authors: De Alcaraz‐Fossoul Josep , Dennehy Katherine E.
Published: October 2024

For decades, detectives and forensic scientists have relied on friction ridge skin comparisons to identify individuals in criminal investigations. This method involves examining (latent) fingermarks, typically captured as two‐dimensional (2D) images, and comparing them with known inked impressions or scans. The comparisons focus on general patterns, the location and orientation of minutiae, and additional characteristics like scars or pores. However, this common process overlooks other potentially valuable factors, such as handedness, biological sex, and the time since deposition, which could provide crucial investigative leads, especially in cases with partial or unclear ridge patterns. This study explored the potential of three‐dimensional (3D) optical profilometry (OP) to observe changes in fingermarks ridge height and volume over 7 days while considering hand dominance and biological sex. The results indicated that all the assessed 3D metrics were generally consistent in detecting the effects of sex and handedness, mostly noticeable on aged fingermarks. Specifically, females and impressions from their non‐dominant hand exhibited higher values. Additionally, the influence of time was evident, with fresh fingermarks showing significantly larger ridges in terms of height and volume. These findings suggest that 3D OP can enhance the probative value of fingermarks by inferring additional characteristics such as sex, handedness, and the age of the impression. These activity‐level propositions could provide useful information in cases where only partial or poor‐quality fingermarks are recovered, providing new data dimensions that could lead to more comprehensive forensic examinations.
Review article: Electronic screening and brief intervention for alcohol‐related trauma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Woliansky Matthew , Lee Kai , Tadakamadla Santosh
Published: October 2024

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Electronic Screening and Brief Intervention (e‐SBI) in changing or reducing alcohol consumption and/or related risk behaviours among trauma patients compared to standard of care. Following Cochrane Collaboration's guidelines and PRISMA recommendations, a search of electronic databases (MEDLINE via PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science) and grey literature (Google Scholar) was conducted. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from 1995 to 2023 were included, focusing on e‐SBI for alcohol misuse in trauma patients. Quality assessment utilised the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Bayesian meta‐analysis was employed for synthesising outcomes. Four RCTs, totalling 2641 participants, were included. While e‐SBI demonstrated a significant reduction in problematic alcohol consumption up to 6 months post‐implementation, uncertainties were noted in risk behaviours determined by: average alcohol consumption, binge drinking and alcohol‐related consequences. Heterogeneity in measurements and population variations contributed to the nuanced findings. The review suggests that e‐SBI may be effective in reducing problematic alcohol consumption in the short term among alcohol‐related trauma patients. However, uncertainties and methodological variations highlight the need for standardised outcome measurements, consistent reporting and further exploration of e‐SBI's long‐term impact. Relevance to health promotion: Understanding the effectiveness of e‐SBI in managing alcohol‐related issues among trauma patients is crucial for health promotion. Despite uncertainties, the findings underscore the potential of e‐SBI as a scalable and accessible intervention. e‐SBI in the setting of the present study, emphasises the importance of tailored approaches in public health strategies.
Emerging strategies for treating medical device and wound‐associated biofilm infections
Authors: Wang Chenlong , Su Yajuan , Shahriar S. M. Shatil , Li Yu , Xie Jingwei
Published: October 2024

Bacterial infections represent a significant global threat to human health, leading to considerable economic losses through increased healthcare costs and reduced productivity. One major challenge in treating these infections is the presence of biofilms ‐ structured bacterial communities that form protective barriers, making traditional treatments less effective. Additionally, the rise of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria has exacerbated treatment difficulties. To address these challenges, researchers are developing and exploring innovative approaches to combat biofilm‐related infections. This mini‐review highlights recent advancements in the following key areas: surface anti‐adhesion technologies, electricity, photo/acoustic‐active materials, endogenous mimicking agents, and innovative drug delivery systems. These strategies aim to prevent biofilm formation, disrupt existing biofilms, and enhance the efficacy of antimicrobial treatments. Currently, these approaches show great potential for applications in medical fields such as medical device and wound – associated biofilm infections. By summarizing these developments, this mini‐review provides a comprehensive resource for researchers seeking to advance the management and treatment of biofilm‐associated infections.
Comparative analysis of clinical treatment outcomes: Breath‐hold vs. free‐breathing techniques in liver stereotactic body radiotherapy
Authors: Morishima Kosuke , Yamashita Hideomi , Noyama Tomoyuki , Katano Atsuto
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to clarify the safety and efficacy of breath‐hold irradiation in liver stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 57 consecutive patients who received SBRT for hepatocellular carcinoma or liver metastases between 2013 and 2021. Breath‐hold irradiation was implemented for patients treated after April 2020.

Results

The median follow‐up period for all patients was 16.4 months (IQR: 7.36–20.9). The 2‐year overall survival rate was 64.4% (95% CI: 47.4–77.2), and the local control rate was 84.3% (95% CI: 69.7–92.3) for all patients. The 1‐year overall survival was 80.0% (95% CI: 60.8–90.5) versus 82.0% (95% CI: 53.5–93.9) in the free‐respiratory (FR) group versus the breath‐hold (BH) group, respectively (P = 0.60). The 1‐year local control rates were 78.1% (95% CI: 57.5–89.5) in the FR group and 95.7% (95% CI: 72.9–99.4) in the BH group, respectively (P = 0.16). Radiation‐induced liver injury, defined by an escalation of ≥2 in Child–Pugh score, was observed in four patients within each group (FR 13% vs. BH 15%). There were no gastrointestinal adverse events of Grade 3 or higher.

Conclusion

Breath‐hold irradiation can be safely administered and has demonstrated clinical potential in improving local control. Further research into dose escalation using breath‐hold techniques is warranted.
Sibling socialization of alcohol use during adolescence: An integrated model of sibling influence processes
Authors: Whiteman Shawn D. , Zhou Weimiao , Serang Sarfaraz , Maiya Sahitya , Kelly Brian C. , Mustillo Sarah A. , Maggs Jennifer L.
Published: October 2024

Background and aims

Research demonstrates that siblings, especially older siblings, make unique contributions to adolescents' substance use above and beyond shared genetics and shared parenting. Older siblings' influences on younger adolescent siblings' alcohol use operate through both direct and indirect pathways. Using three waves of longitudinal data, the present study tested an integrated model of sibling influence processes focused on the linkages between older adolescent siblings' earlier alcohol use and younger adolescent siblings' later alcohol use.

Design

Longitudinal study using data collected from families on three occasions: Time 1 (March 2019–February 2020), Time 2 (July 2020–February 2021) and Time 3 (November 2021–February 2022) via online surveys.

Setting

Families resided in five midwestern states in the US (Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin).

Participants

Participants included two adolescent‐aged siblings and one parent from 682 families (n = 2046 persons).

Measurements

Alcohol use by adolescents and parents was assessed at Time 1; younger siblings' social alcohol expectancies and perceptions of modeling were measured at Time 2; and younger siblings' alcohol use was measured at Time 3.

Findings

Older siblings' earlier alcohol use predicted younger siblings' later drinking both directly [b = 0.15, standard error (SE) = 0.04, β = 0.17, P < 0.001] and indirectly through younger siblings' social alcohol expectancies [δ = 0.02, SE = 0.008, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.003, 0.03]. The direct (δ = −0.14, SE = 0.07, 95% CI = −0.27, −0.01) and indirect (δ = 0.03, SE = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.0001, 0.06) links were further moderated by younger siblings' reports of sibling modeling, but not by gender composition of the sibling dyad or the interaction of modeling and gender composition.

Conclusions

Older siblings' alcohol use appears to influence younger siblings' later alcohol use directly, as well as indirectly through younger siblings' expectancies about alcohol. The global context of the sibling relationship, in this case sibling modeling, may further amplify or dampen these pathways of influence.
Sleep‐disordered breathing – clinical spectrum
Authors: Mohammadieh AM , Chan ASL , Cistulli PA
Published: October 2024

The clinical spectrum of sleep‐disordered breathing comprises a range of diverse conditions including obstructive sleep apnoea, central sleep apnoea and sleep‐related hypoventilation syndromes. These distinct conditions have specific diagnostic features and are managed differently from one another. Therefore, it is useful for dental practitioners to have a working knowledge of sleep‐disordered breathing beyond that of uncomplicated obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This review paper summarizes the diagnosis and management of commonly encountered clinical sleep‐disordered breathing syndromes, with a particular focus on management from a dental perspective.
Association of an EGFLAM non‐synonymous polymorphism with marbling in Limousin cattle
Authors: Kombolo‐Ngah Moïse , Taussat Sébastien , Féménia Maureen , Forestier Lionel , Hocquette Jean‐François , Rocha Dominique
Published: October 2024

Marbling is one of the most important beef quality traits. An association between a non‐synonymous variant located in EGFLAM (EGF‐like fibronectin and laminin G) and marbling in Hanwoo cattle has recently been published. We therefore investigated the association between this SNP (rs109436056 SNP) and marbling in Limousin cattle. A total of 355 animals were phenotyped for marbling and genotyped for this SNP. Significant association (p < 0.05) was observed, in which genotype CC exhibited higher marbling. This SNP could be used for the genetic improvement of marbling in Limousin cattle.
Early‐life exposure to residential greenness and risk of asthma in a U.S. bronchiolitis cohort
Authors: Feleszko Wojciech , Makrinioti Heidi , Nalej Marta , Ooka Tadao , Zhu Zhaozhong , Sullivan Ashley F. , Jartti Tuomas , Hasegawa Kohei , Camargo Carlos A.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Severe bronchiolitis (i.e., bronchiolitis requiring hospitalization) is linked to childhood asthma development. Despite a growing understanding of risk factors for developing post‐bronchiolitis asthma, protective factors remain unclear. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether exposure to residential greenness between birth and bronchiolitis hospitalization is associated with asthma and atopic asthma development by age 6 years.

Methods

We analyzed a US severe bronchiolitis cohort from hospitalization to age 6 years, investigating how the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and chlorophyll index green (CI green), measured in small (100 m) and large (500 m) radiuses around homes, relate to asthma and atopic asthma by age 6 years. We also explored whether maternal antibiotic use, daycare attendance, and respiratory virus type during hospitalization act as effect modifiers.

Results

The study cohort included 861 infants, with 239 (28%) developing asthma by age 6 years—152 atopic, 17 nonatopic, and 70 unclassified. Early life residential exposure to high NDVI and CI green levels was associated with lower odds of asthma (ORAdj for NDVI within a 100 m radius, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.05–0.78; and ORAdj for CI green levels within a 100 m radius, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.31–0.90). Associations also were significant for the development of atopic asthma (ORAdj 0.16; 95% CI, 0.03–0.96; and ORAdj 0.46; 95% CI, 0.25–0.92; respectively). Results were similar for the 500 m radius exposures. No effect modification was noted.

Conclusion

In a U.S. bronchiolitis cohort, exposure to residential greenness between birth and bronchiolitis hospitalization is linked to lower asthma and atopic asthma risk by age 6 years.
Zoonotic feline sporotrichosis: a small case cluster in Perth, Western Australia, and a review of previous feline cases from Australia
Authors: Miranda LHM , Gillett S , Ames Y , Krockenberger M , Malik R
Published: October 2024

Sporotrichosis is caused by species of the fungus Sporothrix that affect human and several animal species. The transmission of sporotrichosis is classically from an environmental source following penetrating injury. The alternative zoonotic route has gained attention due to the rapid and significant spread of cat‐transmitted sporotrichosis in South America and Malaysia, resulting in several thousand human and feline cases in recent decades, especially in Brazil. In Australia, sporotrichosis is sporadic and mainly related to environmental sources. Although feline sporotrichosis is rare in Australia, zoonotic transmission occurred in two of five reported cases, including a recent case cluster, which is reported in this article. The investigation of such cases in Australia is important, as cats not only represent a source of infection living in close proximity with humans, but also, they may represent sentinels for the environmental presence of the fungus. To encourage the investigation and reporting of new veterinary cases, we have reviewed Australian sporotrichosis cases in humans and cats and report a new case cluster of feline sporotrichosis in Perth, WA, Australia, with zoonotic transmission. The index case was a kitten who developed severe facial sporotrichosis with prominent involvement of the nasal planum. Two human cases – one suspected and one confirmed – are also described in the owner, who was a veterinary nurse, and the attending veterinarian, respectively, probably from handling the kitten while not wearing gloves. Later, another mature cat in the same household also became infected. The affected cats were successfully treated using combination of itraconazole and terbinafine. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second case of cat‐transmitted sporotrichosis reported from Australia.
Gpr55 deficiency crucially alters cardiomyocyte homeostasis and counteracts angiotensin II induced maladaption in female mice
Authors: Schopohl Brigitte , Kohlhaas Michael , Nickel Alexander G. , Schiuma Anna‐Florentine , Maas Sanne L. , van der Vorst Emiel P. C. , Shia Yi Xuan , Maack Christoph , Steffens Sabine , Puhl Sarah‐Lena
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose

Cannabis stimulates several G‐protein‐coupled‐receptors and causes bradycardia and hypotension upon sustained consumption. Moreover, in vitro studies suggest an interference of cannabinoid‐signalling with cardiomyocyte contractility and hypertrophy. We aimed at revealing a functional contribution of the cannabinoid‐sensitive receptor GPR55 to cardiomyocyte homeostasis and neurohumorally induced hypertrophy in vivo.

Experimental Approach

Gpr55−/− and wild‐type (WT) mice were characterized after 28‐day angiotensin II (AngII; 1·μg·kg−1 min−1) or vehicle infusion. In isolated adult Gpr55−/− and WT cardiomyocytes, mitochondrial function was assessed under naïve conditions, while cytosolic Ca2+ handling was additionally determined following application of the selective GPR55 antagonist CID16020046.

Key Results

Gpr55 deficiency did not affect angiotensin II (AngII) mediated hypertrophic growth, yet, especially in females, it alleviated maladaptive pro‐hypertrophic and ‐inflammatory gene expression and improved inotropy and adrenergic responsiveness compared to WT. In‐depth analyses implied increased cytosolic Ca2+ concentrations and transient amplitudes, and accelerated sarcomere contraction kinetics in Gpr55−/− myocytes, which could be mimicked by GPR55 blockade with CID16020046 in female WT cells. Moreover, Gpr55 deficiency up‐regulated factors involved in glucose and fatty acid transport independent of the AngII challenge, accelerated basal mitochondrial respiration and reduced basal protein kinase (PK) A, G and C activity and phospholemman (PLM) phosphorylation.

Conclusions and Implications

Our study suggests GPR55 as crucial regulator of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and homeostasis presumably by regulating PKC/PKA‐PLM and PKG signalling, and identifies the receptor as potential target to counteract maladaptation, adrenergic desensitization and metabolic shifts as unfavourable features of the hypertrophied heart in females.
Spheroid culture to select theoretical therapeutic drugs in intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Takai Mika , Shimada Kazuyuki , Furukawa Katsuya , Yamaga Yusuke , Yoshiyama Soichi , Kagaya Yusuke , Suzuki Takashi , Hayashi Kazuhiko , Shimada Satoko , Karube Kennosuke , Kiyoi Hitoshi
Published: October 2024

Intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare type of extranodal large B‐cell lymphoma that is characterized by the proliferation of lymphoma cells in the lumina of small vessels. Recent progress uncovering the genetic characteristics associated with MYD88/CD79B mutations has stimulated interest in the use of drugs targeting B‐cell receptor signaling, including Bruton's tyrosine kinase. However, difficulties in culturing ex vivo IVLBCL cells has hampered research on the development of novel therapies. In the present study, we demonstrated the establishment of an ex vivo culture system of IVLBCL cells obtained from patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) models. The spheroid culture enabled us to culture IVLBCL PDX cells for more than 10 days and to explore the efficacy of drug treatments acting on these cells. We found that carfilzomib and ibrutinib were effective for treating IVLBCL in ex vivo experiments and conducted in vivo analyses to assess the efficacy of these drugs. Although the efficacy of carfilzomib was difficult to confirm due to its toxicity in our models, ibrutinib showed comparable efficacy to a standard combination of chemotherapy drugs. Together, our data provide a new culture method for IVLBCL PDX cells and a rationale for translating ibrutinib to clinical use in IVLBCL patients.
Pathomechanism of Adverse Reactions to Biological Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Conditions
Authors: Li Lichen , Naisbitt Dean J. , Sun Yonghu , Zhang Furen
Published: October 2024

Biological agents are widely used across medicine, including for immune‐mediated skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. When used to treat a relevant pathological process, they demonstrate impressive efficacy and credible safety, helping to achieve remission and improved function and quality of life. However, with their expanded use, awareness and understanding of adverse reactions to biologicals have also increased. Herein, we discuss the pathomechanism of adverse reactions to biological agents used to treat skin conditions and apply these to Pichler's classification system. This classification differentiates five distinct types, namely overstimulation (type α), hypersensitivity or immunogenicity (β), immunodeviation (γ), cross‐reactivity (δ) and nonimmunologic adverse reactions (ε). This classification covers most types of adverse reactions associated with use of biological agents and could be used to better understand the reaction pathogenesis and manage the clinical features of biological adverse effects.
Role of Surgery in Potentially Resectable Small‐Cell Lung Cancer Based on the Eighth Edition of the TNM Classification: A Population Study of the US SEER Database
Authors: Guo Xiaokang , Wang Bin , Sun Jian , Li Ji , Jia Wenxiao , Zhu Hui , Guo Hongbo
Published: October 2024

Background

This study aimed to identify a specific SCLC population that would benefit from surgery.

Methods

This study utilized patient data retrieved from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database spanning 2010 to 2017. To mitigate clinical biases, the propensity score matching (PSM) technique was employed. Separate cohorts were aligned using PSM according to the AJCC 8th edition TNM classification. The Kaplan–Meier method and a competing risk model were applied to evaluate overall survival (OS) and lung cancer–specific survival (LCSS), respectively.

Outcomes

Among the 3394 patients with potentially resectable SCLC included in the study, 3062 underwent chemoradiotherapy and 332 underwent surgical treatment with adjuvant chemotherapy. Surgery was associated with better OS (median OS: 49 months; 95% CI: 35–63 months vs. 27 months; 95% CI: 21–33 months, p < 0.001) and LCSS (SHR, 0.578; 95% CI: 0.411–0.815, p < 0.001) in stage I patients after PSM. However, there was no significant difference in OS and LCSS between the surgery and nonsurgery groups in stage II and III patients after PSM. In the entire cohort, lobectomy was associated with improved OS (median OS: 48.6 vs. 28.7 months, p < 0.0001), but not LCSS (SHR, 0.696; 95% CI: 0.466–1.040, p = 0.078) compared with sublobar resection after PSM.

Conclusion

Surgery with adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved the survival prognosis of patients with early‐stage SCLC. However, surgical treatment should be carefully considered in patients with stage II/III disease. Lobectomy is oncologically equal to sublobar resection.
Co‐production in action: Navigating the research‐to‐implementation space in wildlife conservation through a Community of Practice
Authors: Livingston Sami , Dayer Ashley A. , Zebrowski Allyssa , Sterling Abby , Schillerstrom Nolan , Archibald Thomas , Chaves Willandia
Published: October 2024

Effective conservation practices require addressing the divide between research and implementation. Co‐production, which emphasizes collaboration and diverse knowledge exchange, is increasingly recognized as valuable in conservation to address this challenge, yet empirical insights remain limited. This case study explores using a Community of Practice (CoP) as an avenue for facilitating co‐production in shorebird conservation. Centering researchers and practitioners within implementation initiatives, we evaluate factors enabling a successful CoP and barriers hindering members' experiences. Capacity emerged as the predominant barrier, while the leading factors contributing to CoP success were having a dedicated space to support labor division, relationship building, and informal learning among CoP members. Leveraging our evaluation insights, we offer practical recommendations for structuring a CoP to optimize these benefits and advance the integration of CoPs and co‐production principles in conservation practice.
Serum metabolomics after exercise in ambulatory individuals with cerebral palsy
Authors: Hanaoka Chad , Pichika Rajeswari , Dayanidhi Sudarshan , Jayabalan Prakash
Published: October 2024

Aim

To evaluate whether serum metabolomics differ between ambulatory individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) compared with individuals with typical development and whether functional capacity is associated with metabolite abundance.

Method

Thirty‐eight adolescents and young adults were enrolled (CP: n = 19; typical development: n = 19). After functional capacity testing (10‐meter walk, sit‐to‐stand, and peak knee flexion/extension torques), blood was drawn. Targeted serum metabolomics on hydrophilic metabolites were performed by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with high‐resolution and tandem mass spectrometry. Metabolite dimensionality reduction, pathway analysis, fold change, and t‐tests evaluated changes in metabolite abundance. Associations were tested between functional measures and metabolite abundance.

Results

Individuals with CP had a significant increase in the abundance of essential amino acids, catabolic products of protein metabolism, and tricarboxylic acid cycle substrates, such as valine, tryptophan, kynurenic acid, and pyruvate (p < 0.05). Importantly, the abundance of numerous metabolites was only highly associated with functional capacity in individuals with CP such that greater abundance was associated with greater capacity, but not in those with typical development.

Interpretation

Our findings show clear increases in serum metabolites in individuals with CP, which are associated with functional capacity for movement. The altered metabolite profile measured after exercise might reflect increased energy production needed for movement. Appropriate nutritional intake during exercise might be needed given increased energy requirements.
Language barriers and mental health problems of preschool children born very preterm in Germany
Authors: Jaekel Julia , Jaekel Nils , Härtel Christoph , Göpel Wolfgang , Herting Egbert , Felderhoff‐Müser Ursula , Huening Britta M. , Spiegler Juliane
Published: October 2024

Aim

We assessed whether behavioural and emotional problems of 5‐ to 6‐year‐old preschool children born very preterm (<32 weeks' gestation) are associated with an immigrant background and linguistic distance of their first language to the host country's official language, German.

Method

This is an observational longitudinal cohort study. Data are from the national multicentre German Neonatal Network cohort, including all very preterm births from 2009 onwards. A total of 3220 (n = 1570 female) children were followed up at preschool age; 629 (n = 324 female) of these had an immigrant background. Behavioural and emotional problems were assessed using the parent‐reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

Results

Mixed‐effects models showed that immigrant status alone was not associated with children's behavioural and emotional problems. However, a higher linguistic distance of the children's first language to German was associated with higher SDQ total problem scores (coefficient = 0.008, 95% confidence interval 0.002, 0.015), after adjusting for known confounders.

Interpretation

Language barriers in the form of linguistic distance between the first language of children born very preterm and countries' official languages are associated with increased risk for behavioural and emotional problems. More research is needed on how language barriers affect long‐term developmental outcomes of immigrant children born very preterm.
State‐of‐the‐art cranial ultrasound in clinical scenarios for infants born at term and near‐term
Authors: Valverde Eva , Ybarra Marta , Bravo Maria Carmen , Dudink Jeroen , Govaert Paul , Horsch Sandra , Steggerda Sylke , Pellicer Adelina ,   The EurUS.Brain Group
Published: October 2024

Neonates admitted to the intensive care unit are at risk of brain injury. Importantly, infants with signs of neurological impairment need prompt diagnosis to guide intervention. Cranial ultrasound (CUS) is the first‐line imaging tool for infants born preterm. New developments in this technology, which now incorporates high‐resolution equipment, have notably improved the performance of CUS in infants born at term and near‐term. On the other hand, the potential of CUS as a diagnostic tool in older infants is less established. The lack of studies focusing on this topic, local protocol variability among clinical sites, and divergent opinions on CUS patterns of disease entities are the main constraints. This review provides an overview of state‐of‐the‐art CUS as a decision‐making tool under different clinical scenarios, such as neonatal encephalopathy, seizures, and suspected central nervous system infection. The CUS features that characterize several patterns supporting a diagnosis are detailed, focusing on haemorrhage and infection.
The impact of a minimum wage increase on hours worked: heterogeneous effects by gender and sector
Authors: Redmond Paul , McGuinness Seamus
Published: October 2024

A minimum wage increase could lead to adverse employment effects for certain subgroups of minimum wage workers, while leaving others unaffected. This heterogeneity could be overlooked in studies that examine the overall population of minimum wage workers. In this paper, we test for heterogeneous effects of a minimum wage increase on the hours worked of minimum wage employees in Ireland. For all minimum wage workers, we find that a 10% increase in the minimum wage leads to a one‐hour reduction in weekly hours worked, equating to an hours elasticity of approximately −0.3. However, for industry workers and those in the accommodation & food sector, the impact is larger, with elasticity −0.8. We also find a negative impact on the hours worked among men on minimum wage, with no significant effect for women. This is due to the disproportionate number of men working in sectors that show the greatest impact on hours. In line with suggestions from the recent literature, we attempt to identify directly those in receipt of minimum wage using hourly wage data, while also studying the dynamic impact on hours worked over multiple time periods using a fully flexible difference‐in‐differences estimator.
Echocardiography in Endocarditis
Authors: Greco Cosimo Angelo , Zaccaria Salvatore , Casali Giovanni , Nicolardi Salvatore , Albanese Miriam
Published: October 2024

Infective endocarditis (IE) continues to have high rates of adverse outcomes, despite recent advances in diagnosis and management. Although the use of computer tomography and nuclear imaging appears to be increasing, echocardiography, widely available in most centers, is the recommended initial modality of choice to diagnose and consequently guide the management of IE in a timely‐dependent fashion. Echocardiographic imaging should be performed as soon as the IE diagnosis is suspected. Several factors may delay diagnosis, for example, echocardiography findings may be negative early in the disease course. Thus, repeated echocardiography is recommended in patients with negative initial echocardiography if high suspicion for IE persists in patients at high risk. However, systematic echocardiographic screening should not be utilized as a common tool for fever, but only in the presence of a reasonable clinical suspicion of IE. It may increase the risk of false‐positive rates of patients requiring IE therapy or may exacerbate diagnostic uncertainty about subtle findings. Considering the complexity of the disease, the echocardiographic use should be increasingly time‐efficient and should focus on the correct identification of IE lesions and associated complications. The path to identify patients who need surgery passes through an echocardiographic skill ensuring the identification of the cardiac anatomical structures and their involvement in the destructive infective extension. We pointed out the role of echocardiography focused on the correct identification of IE distinctive lesions and the associated complications, as part of a diagnostic strategy, within an integrated multimodality imaging, managed by an “endocarditis team”.
Should we exploit opportunistic databases with joint species distribution models? Artificial and real data suggest it depends on the sampling completeness
Authors: Romera‐Romera Daniel , Nieto‐Lugilde Diego
Published: October 2024

Anticipating the effects of global change on biodiversity has become a global challenge requiring new methods. Approaches like species distribution models have limitations which have fueled the development of joint species distribution models (JSDMs). However, JSDMs rely on systematic surveys community data, and no assessment has been made of their suitability with unstructured opportunistic databases data. We used hierarchical modeling of species communities (HMSC) to test JSDMs performance when using opportunistic databases. Using artificial data that mimic the limitations of such databases by subsampling complete co‐occurrence matrices (i.e. original data), we analysed how the completeness of opportunistic databases affects JSDMs regarding 1) the role of independent variables on species occurrence, 2) residual species co‐occurrence (as a proxy of biotic interactions) and 3) species distributions. Moreover, we illustrate how to evaluate completeness at the pixel level of real data with a study case of forest tree species in Europe, and evaluate the role of data completeness in model estimation. Our results with artificial data demonstrate that decreasing the completion percentage (the rate of original data presences represented in the subsampled matrices) increases false negatives and negative co‐occurrence probabilities, resulting in a loss of ecological information. However, HMSC tolerates different levels of degradation depending on the model aspect being considered. Models with 50% of missing data are valid for estimating species niches and distribution, but interaction matrices require databases with at least 75% of completion data. Furthermore, HMSC's predictions often resemble the original community data (without false negatives) even more than the subsampled data (with false negatives) in the training dataset. These findings were confirmed with the real study case. We conclude that opportunistic databases are a valuable resource for JSDMs, but require an analysis of data completeness for the target taxa in the study area at the spatial resolution of interest.
Fetal Hemoglobin Decrease During Voxelotor Treatment
Authors: De Luna Gonzalo , Habibi Anoosha , Moutereau Stéphane , Martino Suella , Alhamrouni Jamila , Morel Celia , Pelinski Yanis , Zaouali Yosr , Galactéros Frédéric , Bartolucci Pablo
Published: October 2024

Voxelotor modifies hemoglobin‐oxygen affinity improving anemia and reducing hemolysis in sickle cell patients. However, the impact of Voxelotor on fetal hemoglobin (HbF) levels is unknown. We describe here variations of percentage of HbF measured by high performance liquid chromatography and mean corpuscular fetal Hb in a cohort of sickle cell patients treated with Voxelotor at Henri Mondor Sickle Cell Referral Center. Our data show a decrease in HbF levels in sickle cell patients after 6 months of treatment with Voxelotor, which is likely to be associated with an increase in the lifespan of red blood cells that are no longer prematurely removed from the circulation, particularly those with low HbF. This work raises the question of the risk of a rebound effect when stopping Voxelotor, which has a short half‐life, during the time it takes to increase HbF.
Comparing the effects of anodal and cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation of primary motor cortex at varying intensities on motor learning in healthy young adults
Authors: Mousavi Sheida , Mottahedi Amin , Ehsani Fatemeh , Delkhosh Cyrus Taghizadeh , Jaberzadeh Shapour
Published: October 2024

Inconsistent results are observed in the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with different montages on motor learning. This study aimed to compare the effects of anodal and cathodal tDCS (c‐tDCS) over primary motor cortex (M1) at different intensities on motor learning in healthy young adults. The participants were randomly divided into: (1) 1 mA M1 c‐tDCS, (2) 1 mA M1 anodal tDCS (a‐tDCS), (3) 2 mA M1 c‐tDCS, (4) 2 mA M1 a‐tDCS and (5) M1 sham tDCS groups. The groups received 20‐min stimulation with serial reaction time task (SRTT) incidentally, while the tDCS was turned off after 30 s in the sham tDCS group. Response time (RT) and error rate (ER) during SRTT were assessed prior, during and 72 h after the intervention. The results of the paired t‐test indicated that online learning occurred in all groups (p < 0.05), except in M1 c‐tDCS (1 mA) (p > 0.05). One‐way ANOVA analysis also indicated that there were differences in offline learning (RT (F(DF) = 5.19(4); p < 0.001; and ER (F(DF) = 9(4), p < 0.0001) among groups, with more offline learning in 1 mA M1 a‐tDCS, 2 mA M1 c‐tDCS and 2 mA M1 a‐tDCS groups (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the 1 mA M1 c‐tDCS group did not indicate any consolidation effect or even a trend toward negative offline learning. M1 a‐tDCS with different intensities and also 2 mA M1 c‐tDCS may be helpful for the enhancement of motor learning in young healthy adults. This study enhances our understanding of tDCS intensity and polarity effects on motor learning, with potential for optimizing therapeutic protocols.
Cortical activity in body balance tasks as a function of motor and cognitive demands: A systematic review
Authors: Monteiro Pedro Henrique Martins , Marcori Alexandre Jehan , da Conceição Núbia Ribeiro , Monteiro Rafael Luiz Martins , Coelho Daniel Boari , Teixeira Luis Augusto
Published: October 2024

Technological tools, like electroencephalography and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy, have deepened our understanding of cortical regions involved in balance control. In this systematic literature review, we aimed to identify the prevalent cortical areas activated during balance tasks with specific motor or cognitive demands. Our search strategy encompassed terms related to balance control and cortical activity, yielding 2250 results across five databases. After screening, 67 relevant articles were included in the review. Results indicated that manipulations of visual and/or somatosensory information led to prevalent activity in the parietal, frontal and temporal regions; manipulations of the support base led to prevalent activity of the parietal and frontal regions; both balance‐cognitive dual‐tasking and reactive responses to extrinsic perturbations led to prevalent activity in the frontal and central regions. These findings deepen our comprehension of the cortical regions activated to manage the complex demands of maintaining body balance in the performance of tasks posing specific requirements. By understanding these cortical activation patterns, researchers and clinicians can develop targeted interventions for balance‐related disorders.
Effectiveness of antipsychotic drug therapy for treating psychosis in people with epilepsy: A systematic review
Authors: Arora Aryan , Prakash Priya , Rizzo Laura , Blackman Graham , David Anthony S. , Rogers Jonathan P.
Published: October 2024

Individuals with epilepsy are at risk of developing preictal, ictal, postictal and interictal psychoses. Antipsychotic drugs (APDs) are the main class of drugs used to treat psychosis and schizophrenia. The efficacy and safety of APDs as a treatment for epileptic psychosis is not well understood. This systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness and adverse effects of APDs for treating psychosis in people with epilepsy. We adhered to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo, and AMED (Allied and Complementary Medicine) from database inception to June 20, 2023. We contacted experts in the field and performed citation searches to identify additional records. Title, abstract, full‐text review, and data analysis were conducted in duplicate, with conflicts resolved by discussion among authors. Given the considerable heterogeneity of study designs, meta‐analysis was not deemed appropriate; instead, the results were tabulated in a narrative synthesis. The Joanna Briggs Institute Risk of Bias tool and GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) framework were used to assess study quality. We identified 13 studies with a total of 1180 participants. In the four case series included, the psychotic symptoms of 25 of 28 patients treated with APDs partially improved or fully resolved. Three of the four cohort studies reported an association between antipsychotic use and longer duration of psychotic episodes, two found similar results in both APD and non‐APD groups, and two did not report control psychosis outcomes. When reported, seizure frequency was observed to remain unchanged or decrease following APD treatment. The evidence on the effectiveness of antipsychotics in the treatment of psychosis in epilepsy is inconclusive and may reflect confounding by indication. However, most studies suggest that antipsychotics were not associated with a marked worsening in seizure frequency. It remains unclear whether antipsychotics should be used in epilepsy, and well‐controlled cohort studies and randomized controlled trials are necessary to draw definitive conclusions.
In vitro antimicrobial activity of non‐traditional therapies for infectious endometritis in mares
Authors: Mazzuchini Mariana P. , Lisboa Fernando Paixão , de Castro Jessica I. , Alvarenga Marco A. , Segabinazzi Lorenzo G. T. M. , Canisso Igor F.
Published: October 2024

Background

Endometritis is the leading cause of subfertility in horses, and it is a clinical problem where historically antibiotics have not always been used with prudent justification. Because of this, alternative therapies to treat endometritis are necessary for the rational use of antibiotics.

Objectives

To assess the in vitro antimicrobial activity of non‐traditional therapies commonly used in clinical practice against microorganisms causing infectious endometritis in mares.

Study design

In vitro experiments.

Methods

A microdilution technique was performed to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 50%, 90% and 100% of microorganisms and the percentage of inhibition (PI) of each therapy against each microorganism (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida sp.). The MIC 50% and 90% were determined using non‐linear regression, while MIC 100% was assessed using the resazurin dye technique. The serial PI was evaluated for each therapy using a spectrophotometer.

Results

All the therapies demonstrated a PI higher than positive controls for all microorganisms (p < 0.05); however, the only therapies that presented MIC 100 values were hydrogen peroxide and platelet‐rich and ‐poor plasma.

Main limitations

In vivo, safety and treatment efficacy were not tested.

Conclusion

Hydrogen peroxide and platelet‐rich and ‐poor plasma might be alternatives to traditional therapies for endometritis to support a reduction in antibiotic use.
Induction of Ca2+ signaling and cytotoxic responses of human lung fibroblasts upon an antihistamine drug oxatomide treatment and evaluating the protective effects of Ca2+ chelating
Authors: Liang Wei‐Zhe , Hsieh Kai‐Wei , Yang Zong‐Da , Sun Gwo‐Ching
Published: October 2024

Background

Oxatomide, an antihistamine drug of the diphenylmethylpiperazine family, has anti‐inflammatory effects in airway disease. Because oxatomide was shown to cause diverse physiological responses in several cell models, the impact of oxatomide on Ca2+ signaling and its related physiological effects has not been explored in IMR‐90 human fetal lung fibroblasts.

Objectives

This study assessed the effect of oxatomide on cell viability and intracellular free Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) and examined whether oxatomide‐induced cytotoxicity through Ca2+ signaling in IMR‐90 cells.

Methods

Cell viability was measured by the cell proliferation reagent (WST‐1). [Ca2+]i was measured by the Ca2+‐sensitive fluorescent dye fura‐2.

Results

Oxatomide (10–40 μM) concentration dependently reduced cell viability and induced [Ca2+]i rises in IMR‐90 cells. This cytotoxic effect was reversed by chelation of cytosolic Ca2+ with BAPTA‐AM. In terms of Ca2+ signaling, oxatomide‐caused Ca2+ entry was inhibited by modulators of store‐operated Ca2+ channels (2‐APB and SKF96365) and protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor (GF109203X). Furthermore, oxatomide‐induced Ca2+ influx was confirmed by Mn2+‐induced quench of fura‐2 fluorescence. In a Ca2+‐free medium, preincubation with the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor thapsigargin inhibited oxatomide‐evoked [Ca2+]i rises. Conversely, treatment with oxatomide abolished thapsigargin‐induced [Ca2+]i rises. Inhibition of phospholipase C (PLC) with U73122 also inhibited oxatomide‐caused [Ca2+]i rises.

Conclusion

In IMR‐90 cells, oxatomide‐induced cytotoxicity by preceding [Ca2+]i rises involving PKC‐sensitive store‐operated Ca2+ entry and PLC‐dependent Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum. BAPTA‐AM, with its Ca2+ chelating effects, may be a potential compound for preventing oxatomide‐induced cytotoxicity.