bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiographic evaluation of marginal bone levels around implants supporting splinted fixed bridges: A retrospective study on 412 implants
Authors: Manfredini Mattia , Poli Pier Paolo , Beretta Mario , Rossi Federico , Rigoni Marta , Veronesi Valentina , Maiorana Carlo
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The effect of the implant position within the prosthesis on bone remodeling is scarcely documented so far. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether central implants may suffer higher peri‐implant marginal bone levels (MBL) compared to laterals in case of fixed splinted bridges supported by ≥ three implants.

Materials and Methods

Partially edentulous subjects rehabilitated with at least one fixed bridge supported by ≥ three dental implants were enrolled. MBL was assessed radiographically by means of intraoral radiographs acquired with phosphor plates and imported in a dedicated software. MBL was calculated as the distance between the implant platform level and the most coronal visible bone‐to‐implant contact. A three‐level linear mixed effects model was used for investigating the fixed effect of patient‐, prosthesis‐, and implant‐level variables on the MBL.

Results

Overall, 90 patients rehabilitated with 130 splinted fixed bridges supported by 412 implants were included. The median follow‐up was 136 months. The mean peri‐implant MBL resulted statistically significantly higher at central implants if compared to lateral implants (p < .01). The estimated MBL averages for central and external implants were 1.68 and 1.18 mm, respectively. The prosthesis‐level variables suggested that a cement‐retained bridge was prone to a significant 0.82 mm higher MBL than a screw‐retained one. Implant surface showed an association with MBL changes, although less pronounced than implant retention.

Conclusions

In case of ≥3 adjacent implants supporting splinted bridges, central implants were more predisposed to MBL compared to laterals. At the prosthesis level, implants supporting cement‐retained bridges were statistically more susceptible to MBL compared to screw‐retained ones. Surface characteristics can also influence MBL stability at the implant level.
A new surgical technique: robotic intracorporeal Kono‐S anastomosis in Crohn's – a safety and feasibility case series on short‐term outcomes
Authors: Smalbroek Bo P. , Poelmann Floris B. , Smits Anke B.
Published: February 2024

Aim

The Kono‐S anastomosis was introduced as a possible solution to the high surgical recurrence rates in Crohn's disease. However, this technique is known to be challenging, which is why it was originally performed in an extracorporeal setting. The aim of this case series was to assess safety, in terms of intra‐/postoperative complications, and feasibility, in terms of successful performance of anastomosis, of a robot‐assisted intracorporeal Kono‐S anastomosis.

Method

This is a prospective single‐centre consecutive case series. Patients were considered eligible if they were diagnosed with refractory Crohn's disease with significant bowel stenosis of the terminal ileum. All patients underwent robot‐assisted intracorporeal Kono‐S anastomosis. Perioperative care was provided according to the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery® protocol. Follow‐up for postoperative complications was 30 days.

Results

Twenty patients were included, of whom 11 (55%) were men. The median age was 30 years [interquartile range (IQR) 22–51 years] and the median BMI was 25 kg/m2 (IQR 19–28 kg/m2). Intracorporeal Kono‐S anastomosis was successfully performed in all cases. The median operating time was 155 min (IQR 144–176 min) and the median length of stay was 3 days (IQR 1–5 days). No conversions or 30‐day mortality were observed. One patient experienced anastomotic leakage, which was treated with radiologically guided drainage. A total of three patients experienced postoperative complications in the first 30 days.

Conclusion

Performance of intracorporeal robot‐assisted Kono‐S anastomosis seems safe and feasible in this case series for Crohn's disease. Since this is a first case series, further research is required to confirm results in a larger population‐based cohort.
Pain trajectories after bilateral orthotopic lung transplantation surgery performed via a clamshell incision
Authors: Mamoun Negmeldeen , Rosser Morgan A. , Manning Michael , Raghunathan Karthik , McCartney Sharon , Mehta Sachin , Ingle Krista , Bottiger Brandi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The nature, intensity, and progression of acute pain after bilateral orthotopic lung transplantation (BOLT) performed via a clamshell incision has not been well investigated. We aimed to describe acute pain after clamshell incisions using pain trajectories for the study cohort, in addition to stratifying patients into separate pain trajectory groups and investigating their association with donor and recipient perioperative variables.

Methods

After obtaining IRB approval, we retrospectively included all patients ≥18 years old who underwent primary BOLT via clamshell incision at a single center between January 1, 2017, and June 30, 2022. We modeled the overall pain trajectory using pain scores collected over the first seven postoperative days and identified separate pain trajectory classes via latent class analysis.

Results

Three hundred one adult patients were included in the final analysis. Three separate pain trajectory groups were identified, with most patients (72.8%) belonging to a well‐controlled, stable pain trajectory. Uncontrolled pain was either observed in the early postoperative period (10%), or in the late postoperative period (17.3%). Late postoperative peaking trajectory patients were younger (p = .008), and sicker with a higher lung allocation score (p = .005), receiving preoperative mechanical ventilation (p < .001), or VV‐ECMO support (p < .001).

Conclusion

Despite the extensive nature of a clamshell incision, most pain trajectories in BOLT patients had a well‐controlled stable pain profile. The benign nature of pain profiles in our patient population may be attributed to the routine institutional practice of early thoracic epidural analgesia for BOLT patients unless contraindicated.
Swedish income inequality in 1613
Authors: Andersson Martin , Molinder Jakob
Published: February 2024

In this paper we present the first estimate of the full income distribution in pre‐industrial Sweden (including present‐day Finland). We draw on the schedule and the individual assessments devised by the authorities to distribute the 1613 Älvsborg ransom taxation to estimate income inequality, as well as the income shares of the top quantiles and of various social groups. We find that Sweden was relatively equal compared with other early modern European societies, for two main reasons: first, because the nobility, the clergy, the burghers, and other middle‐rank social groups all held relatively small shares of the total income, and second, because the landless groups were less numerous in Sweden than in other societies. This resulted in a large share of the total income going to the relatively homogeneous group of landed peasants, who made up the majority of the population. Our study thus speaks to the political historiography of early modern Sweden, within which negotiation and collaboration between the landed peasantry and the state has been seen as pivotal to the state formation process.
Incidence rate and prevalence of pediatric‐onset multiple sclerosis in Sweden: A population‐based register study
Authors: Sandesjö Fredrik , Tremlett Helen , Fink Katharina , Marrie Ruth Ann , Zhu Feng , Wickström Ronny , McKay Kyla A.
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose

Pediatric‐onset multiple sclerosis (PoMS) is associated with high health care use. To plan resource allocation for this patient group, knowledge of the incidence rate and prevalence is important. However, such studies are scarce, few are population‐based, and the methodology varies widely. We aimed to address this knowledge gap by performing a nationwide study of the incidence rate and prevalence of PoMS in Sweden, an area of high multiple sclerosis (MS) incidence and prevalence.

Methods

MS cases were identified by linking two nationwide registers, the National Patient Register and the Swedish MS Registry. MS cases having their first central nervous system demyelinating event or MS clinical onset before age 18 years were classified as pediatric onset. Incidence rate and prevalence were estimated annually over the study period (2006–2016) for the total population and stratified by sex and age group (<12, 12–15, and 16–17 years). Temporal trends and ratios between sexes and age groups were estimated.

Results

We identified 238 incident cases from 2006 to 2016, corresponding to an overall crude incidence rate of 1.12 per 100,000 person‐years and an overall crude prevalence of 2.82 per 100,000 population. There was a higher incidence rate among females and the highest age category. The overall incidence rate and prevalence estimates remained stable during the study period.

Conclusions

Sweden exhibits a consistently high incidence rate and prevalence of PoMS that has remained stable over time. This knowledge serves as a tool to aid in planning resource allocation and health services for this patient population.
Mother–child similarity during observed interactions: Links with mother and child effortful control
Authors: Hong Yelim , Bell Martha Ann , Deater‐Deckard Kirby
Published: February 2024

Objective

We examined whether mothers' and child's regulatory capacity, measured by effortful control (EC) and its facets, is associated with variance in mother–child within‐dyad similarity in multiple aspects of positive emotions and behaviors during their interaction.

Background

Both parents' and children's self‐regulation capacities may help them to modulate their behaviors and emotions to be mutually responsive to and harmonious with their interaction partner.

Methods

Participants were children of 3‐ to‐7‐year‐olds and their mothers (n = 147). Mothers completed a set of questionnaires regarding themselves, their child, and demographics, and mother–child interactions were observed during three cooperative tasks. We estimated mother–child within‐dyad similarity during their brief interaction using the Q‐correlation method.

Results

Mothers' general EC was statistically associated with greater mother–child similarity, but children's EC was not. When testing the subscales of EC, greater mother–child similarity was associated with mother's higher attentional control, child's better attention focusing, child's lower levels of low intensity pleasure, and older child age.

Conclusion

Mother's higher attentional control and child's better attention focusing are associated with greater mother and child within‐dyad similarity during their interactions.

Implications

This study highlights the importance of considering child and mother self‐regulation for intervention efforts to better understand how dyads match and co‐modulate their behaviors and emotions during their interactions.
“Privileged adult”: How relationship with parents influences adult's status consumption
Authors: Huang Yunzhi , Zhou Kun , Yang Ying , Xu Man
Published: February 2024

Objective

To explore why individuals engage in status consumption despite scarce monetary resources in the Chinese context. This exploration employs a family influence perspective focusing on whether the parental relationship is associated with the status consumption tendency of individuals.

Method

Three surveys were conducted, and the responses of 637 Chinese participants were used to test the hypothesis systematically.

Results

Participants who had a close relationship with their parents were more likely to engage in status consumption, had a more positive attitude toward luxury brands, and spent more money on products that signal status. This effect is driven by participants' perceived social support from close parental relationship. This positive effect of parental relationship on the status consumption holds when their monetary resources are scarce but disappears when their monetary resources are abundant.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that a close relationship with parents increases status consumption. When engaging in status consumption, social support received from parents and monetary resources are interchangeable.

Implications

It is important to cultivate an appropriate consumption concept in interactions with the next generation.
Dialogue journals and traditional writing assignments: A comparison of writing in L2 German classrooms
Authors: Henry Nick , Mandel Hannes , VanderHeijden Vincent
Published: February 2024

Dialogue journals (DJs) are a type of extensive writing assignment, in which students write for the purpose of communication with their instructor. Previous research has shown that DJs can help students develop writing skills; however, few studies have analyzed how DJs compare with traditional prompt‐based assignments (TAs). The present study, therefore, presents a quasi‐experimental comparison of texts from first‐ and second‐year German classrooms that used either DJs or TAs. Analysis focused on five metrics: (1) word count, (2) sentence count, (3) words per sentence, (4) text‐type ratio (TTR), and (5) measure of textual lexical diversity (MTLD). Results for word and sentence count indicated that TA texts were longer. However, DJs resulted in more complex writing, as measured by sentence length, MTLD, and TTR. Taken together, results suggest that journals can promote writing that is both communicatively oriented and linguistically complex. The article concludes by offering suggestions for practical implementation of DJs.
Cathepsin L prevents the accumulation of alpha‐synuclein fibrils in the cell
Authors: Matsuki Ayumi , Watanabe Yoshihisa , Hashimoto Sho , Hoshino Atsushi , Matoba Satoaki
Published: February 2024

The deposition of α‐synuclein (α‐Syn) fibrils in neuronal cells has been implicated as a causative factor in Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB). α‐Syn can be degraded by autophagy, proteasome, and chaperone‐mediated autophagy, and previous studies have suggested the potency of certain cathepsins, lysosomal proteases, for α‐Syn degradation. However, no studies have comprehensively evaluated all cathepsins. Here, we evaluated the efficacy of all 15 cathepsins using a cell model of α‐Syn fibril propagation and found that overexpression of cathepsin L (CTSL) was the most effective in preventing the accumulation of α‐Syn aggregates. CTSL‐mediated degradation of α‐Syn aggregates was dependent on the autophagy machinery, and CTSL itself promoted autophagy flux. Interestingly, CTSL was effective in autophagic degradation of wild‐type (WT) α‐Syn, but not in the case of A53T and E46K missense mutations, which are causative for familial PD. These results suggest that CTSL is a potential therapeutic strategy for sporadic PD pathology in WT α‐Syn.
Isoliquiritigenin inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation with CAPS mutations by suppressing caspase‐1 activation and mutated NLRP3 aggregation
Authors: Usui‐Kawanishi Fumitake , Kani Koudai , Karasawa Tadayoshi , Honda Hiroe , Takayama Nobuyuki , Takahashi Masafumi , Takatsu Kiyoshi , Nagai Yoshinori
Published: February 2024

The nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain leucine‐rich repeat and pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome contributes to the development of inflammatory diseases. Cryopyrin‐associated periodic syndrome (CAPS) is an autoinflammatory disease caused by NLRP3 gene mutations that results in excessive IL‐1β production. We previously identified isoliquiritigenin (ILG), a component of Glycyrrhiza uralensis extracts, as a potent inhibitor of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Here, we aimed to investigate whether ILG inhibits the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome caused by NLRP3 gene mutations. We demonstrated that ILG significantly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and IL‐1β production in two CAPS model THP‐1 cell lines, NLRP3‐D303N and NLRP3‐L353P, in a dose‐dependent manner. Interestingly, the NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 inhibited LDH release and IL‐1β production in NLRP3‐D303N cells, but not in NLRP3‐L353P cells. Western blotting and caspase‐1 activity assays showed that ILG, as well as caspase inhibitors, including Z‐VAD and YVAD, suppressed caspase‐1 activation. Notably, ILG prevented cryo‐sensitive foci formation of NLRP3 without affecting the levels of intracellular Ca2+. We concluded that ILG effectively prevents the constitutive activation of the inflammasome associated with NLRP3 gene mutations by inhibiting the aggregation of cryo‐sensitive mutated NLRP3.
Is hemodiafiltration superior to high‐flow hemodialysis in reducing all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in kidney failure patients? A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bignardi Paulo Roberto , Delfino Vinicius Daher Alvares
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Hemodiafiltration (HDF) and high‐flux hemodialysis (hf‐HD) are different methods of kidney replacement therapy (KRT) used for the treatment of kidney failure patients. A debate has raged over the last decade about the survival benefit of patients with the use of HDF compared with hf‐HD, but with divergent results from randomized controlled trials. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a meta‐analysis to compare HDF and hf‐HD regarding all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Methods

PubMed and Cochrane databases were searched until July 19, 2023, for randomized clinical trials comparing HDF and hf‐HD in patients on maintenance dialysis. A meta‐analysis was performed using Stata 16.1, applying fixed or random effect models according to the heterogeneity between studies.

Findings

Of the 496 studies found, five met the inclusion criteria. Compared with the hf‐HD group, the risk ratio (RR) for all‐cause mortality with HDF use was 0.76 (95% CI: 0.67–0.88, I2 = 0%). HDF was associated with lower cardiovascular mortality, although the sensitivity analysis showed that the result differed between scenarios. Subgroup analysis showed lower all‐cause mortality among patients without diabetes in the HDF group compared with hf‐HD (RR 0.66, 95% CI: 0.51–0.81, I2 = 0%), but not in diabetic patients (RR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.65–1.12, I2 = 0.0%). A subgroup analysis considering convection volumes was not performed, but the studies with the highest weight in the meta‐analysis described convection volume as more than 20 L/session.

Discussion

More clinical studies considering critical risk factors, such as advanced age and preexisting cardiovascular disease, are needed to confirm the supremacy of HDF over hf‐HD on the survival of patients treated by these two forms of kidney replacement therapy.
The ideology of crisis in higher education
Authors: Macfarlane Bruce
Published: February 2024

Higher education seems to be in a perpetual state of ‘crisis’. The many hundreds of books and papers containing this specific, or other relevantly similar expressions, convey a sense of fear and angst. Yet, what are these various crises about, and which values and beliefs are seen as threatened or ‘under attack’? This paper will provide an analysis of the ‘crisis’ literature and identify four major crisis themes – massification, marketisation, restitution and geopolitics, linked to their ideological basis and influences—including meritocracy, liberalism, restorative justice, and justice globalism. The second part of the paper analyses the massification crisis in Britain between the 1940s and the 1970s as a case example identifying how the principles of a meritocratic society played an influential role in the debate. It will be argued that the notion of ‘universities in crisis’ needs to be understood critically in terms of ideology and historically via the shifting and reshaping of such beliefs over time.
Are codesigned programmes more difficult to implement? A qualitative study of staff perceptions on the implementation of a new youth mental health programme
Authors: Kehoe Michelle , Whitehead Rick , de Boer Kathleen , Meyer Denny , Hopkins Liza , Nedeljkovic Maja
Published: February 2024

Background

Codesigned interventions are becoming more common in health services and, in particular, in the design and development of mental health programmes and interventions. However, previous research has established that the transition from codesign to implementation can experience several challenges and that this transition process has received little research attention.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the experience of staff members charged with the implementation of a codesigned intervention for young people and adolescents at risk of suicide.

Setting and Participants

Five staff members involved in the implementation of the new codesigned programme took part in semi‐structured interviews.

Method

The study involved qualitative evaluation of staff experiences during the implementation of a new child and youth suicide intervention. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The analysis identified four themes of ‘disconnect’, ‘operational challenges, ‘service user’ and ‘being authentic’. ‘Disconnect’ captures the difficulties of implementing a codesigned programme which leads to ‘operational challenges’ in meeting broader expectations while ensuring the feasibility of the programme. The third theme, ‘service user’, captures the realisation that the young people accessing the new service were different to those involved in the codesign process. The final theme, ‘being authentic’, highlights how staff needed to be responsive and flexible while remaining true to the principles proposed in the codesign.

Discussion

This study yielded some valuable insights into the challenges around the implementation of a codesigned intervention, an under‐researched area. The findings suggest that adaption of the design may be necessary, if it is not informed by implementation constraints, making it necessary for the implementation team to be well‐briefed on the initial design and given plenty of time to make the necessary adjustments in a coproduction process. Limitations for the generalisation of the results include a small sample of staff and particular challenges that may be unique to this study.

Conclusion

The present study highlights that for health services undertaking codesign approaches, appropriate time and resources need to be considered for the implementation phase of an initiative, to ensure that there is effective translation from design to implementation and that new codesigned services can be effective within operational constraints.

Patient and Public Contribution

The authors would like to thank and acknowledge the young people with a lived‐experience and their carers who participated in the codesign process and research evaluation component of this study. We also wish to thank the clinical staff, peer workers and family peer workers who participated in the evaluation.
Tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum) lines from the United States as a source of Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor) resistance
Authors: Subramanyam Subhashree
Published: February 2024

Deploying resistant wheat cultivars is the most economical and environment‐friendly strategy to manage the devastating effects of the dipteran pest, Hessian fly (Hf; Mayetiola destructor). Currently, 37 Hf resistance genes have been identified to combat the 18 Hf genotypes documented so far. However, the Hf populations adapt rapidly to overcome the newly deployed resistance genes within a few years of release resulting in development of virulent Hf biotypes and breakdown of plant resistance. Identification of new and novel sources of resistance offers breeders additional resources that can be included in the breeding programmes to develop elite Hf‐resistant cultivars. In the current study, we screened 374 wheat (tetraploid and hexaploid) accessions originating from different regions of the United States and identified three tetraploid (Triticum turgidum) pasta wheat lines, one originating from North Dakota (PI 639869) and two from Minnesota (PI 352398 and CItr 15710) exhibiting ≥95% resistance to Hf biotype L at 20°C. Further, the wheat cultivar PI 352398 showed 100% resistance to six additional Hf genotypes including biotypes B, C, D, O, GP and vH13. The lines PI 639869 and CItr 15710 also showed >70% resistance with most biotypes, except against biotype GP with the former and biotype B with the latter. Interestingly, a few plants from these two cultivars exhibited putative tolerance to these biotypes where the plants showed normal growth but harboured white, live larvae and showed cell permeability that was intermediate in levels between Hf‐infested resistant and susceptible wheat. Additionally, since the increase in environmental temperatures to 25–30°C also negatively impacts Hf resistance, the three T. turgidum (PI 639869, PI 352398 and CItr 15710) cultivars were evaluated for Hf resistance at 30°C. None of the wheat cultivars were resistant to Hf biotype L at 30°C indicating a temperature‐dependent breakdown of resistance and are therefore not suitable for geographical regions with higher environmental temperatures. Taken together, these three wheat lines represent additional sources of Hf resistance that can be leveraged by breeders for developing durable elite lines.
Identification of Isthmin‐1 in common carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) and the effects on glucose metabolism in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Qu Leya , Yang Liping , Wang Yiran , Zhi Shaoyang , Zhao Mengjuan , Xiong Jinrui , Yan Xiao , Qin Chaobin , Nie Guoxing
Published: February 2024

Isthmin‐1 (Ism1) plays roles in glucose uptake in mammals as an adipokine. To investigate its role in the glucose metabolism of common carp (Cyprinus carpio. L), the Ism1 sequence was cloned, and its expression and distribution in tissues were detected. In addition, we prepared and purified the recombinant Ism1 protein using the E. coli expression system and assessed changes in the expression of key genes related to glucose metabolism through both in vivo injection experiments and primary hepatocyte experiments in vitro. The results revealed that the open reading frame of Ism1 was 1377 bp long, encoding 458 amino acids. Similarity analysis indicated that Ism1 exhibited a close evolutionary relationship with goldfish (Carassius auratus), sharing 98.35% amino acid similarity. Ism1 was expressed in all tissues of common carp, with the highest level observed in the heart, followed by the gill, head kidney, and hepatopancreas. Distinct patterns of Ism1 expression were identified during the oral glucose tolerance test and long‐term high‐carbohydrate and high‐fat diet feeding experiments. In vivo studies demonstrated that the serum glucose concentration was reduced on treatment with Ism1, accompanied by a significant upregulation of mRNA levels for gk, hk, and pfk genes in hepatopancreas; conversely pepck and g6pase mRNA levels were significantly downregulated in the hepatopancreas under these conditions as well. Furthermore, our primary hepatocyte experiment confirmed that Ism1 could inhibit pepck and g6pase mRNA expression, while promoting gk, hk, and pfk mRNA expression levels. In conclusion, Ism1, in common carp, could participate in the glucose metabolism, which provides essential information for future studies on the function of Ism1.
Linkage between spatiotemporal distribution of environmental DNA and phenological activity in an amphidromous fish, ayu Plecoglossus altivelis altivelis, in a river located in its northernmost distributional area
Authors: Yonago Takuma , Kawakami Tatsuya , Kasai Akihide
Published: February 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a promising tool for the continuous monitoring of fish ecology and diversity. However, its potential for describing the phenological activity of fish has rarely been examined. This study aimed to elucidate a linkage between the spatiotemporal distribution of eDNA and the phenology of an amphidromous fish, ayu Plecoglossus altivelis altivelis, in a river in Hokkaido, Japan, which is its northernmost distributional area. A significant positive correlation between eDNA concentration and catch per unit effort of P. a. altivelis in the river confirmed the use of eDNA as a surrogate for the abundance of P. a. altivelis. eDNA of P. a. altivelis was first detected in late April on a sandy beach adjacent to the river mouth. Subsequent to its first detection at the lowest site in the river in early May, eDNA spread throughout the river, indicating the upstream migration of P. a. altivelis. Spawning activity was also represented by a rapid increase in eDNA concentration and its surge at night in the lowest reaches of the river during September and October. These results suggest that upstream migration and spawning primarily commenced when the water temperature reached 10°C and decreased below 20°C, respectively. This observation is consistent with the behavioral responses observed in P. a. altivelis populations from other regions of Japan. Consequently, this study demonstrated that eDNA distribution was closely linked to the phenological activity of P. a. altivelis and that eDNA is a powerful tool for studying the phenology of migratory fishes.
Comparative phenotype and transcriptome analysis revealed the role of ferric uptake regulator (Fur) in the virulence of Vibrio harveyi isolated from diseased American eel (Anguilla rostrata)
Authors: Wan Qijuan , Zhai Shaowei , Chen Minxia , Xu Ming , Guo Songlin
Published: February 2024

Vibrio harveyi is commonly found in salt and brackish water and is recognized as a serious bacterial pathogen in aquaculture worldwide. In this study, we cloned the ferric uptake regulator (fur) gene from V. harveyi wild‐type strain HA_1, which was isolated from diseased American eels (Anguilla rostrata) and has a length of 450 bp, encoding 149 amino acids. Then, a mutant strain, HA_1‐Δfur, was constructed through homologous recombination of a suicide plasmid (pCVD442). The HA_1‐Δfur mutant exhibited weaker biofilm formation and swarming motility, and 18‐fold decrease (5.5%) in virulence to the American eels; compared to the wild‐type strain, the mutant strain showed time and diameter differences in growth and haemolysis, respectively. Additionally, the adhesion ability of the mutant strain was significantly decreased. Moreover, there were 15 different biochemical indicators observed between the two strains. Transcriptome analysis revealed that 875 genes were differentially expressed in the Δfur mutant, with 385 up‐regulated and 490 down‐regulated DEGs. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that, compared to the wild‐type strain, the type II and type VI secretion systems (T2SS and T6SS), amino acid synthesis and transport and energy metabolism pathways were significantly down‐regulated, but the ABC transporters and biosynthesis of siderophore group non‐ribosomal peptides pathways were up‐regulated in the Δfur strain. The qRT‐PCR results further confirmed that DEGs responsible for amino acid transport and energy metabolism were positively regulated, but DEGs involved in iron acquisition were negatively regulated in the Δfur strain. These findings suggest that the virulence of the Δfur strain was significantly decreased, which is closely related to phenotype changing and gene transcript regulation.
Integrating direct messaging with flood alerts and warnings: Insights into effectiveness from a registered public user population
Authors: Geddes Alistair , Black Andrew R. , Cranston Michael
Published: February 2024

Direct messaging involving simultaneous mass transmission of brief text or voice messages to large numbers of recipients has become a frontline method in flood hazard communications. Messages are intended to serve as cues, drawing recipients' attention to changing conditions, yet the actual effectiveness of direct messaging among recipient groups remains under‐examined. This article considers direct messaging within the Floodline public flood warning service in Scotland, implemented by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). Within Floodline, messaging is integrated with alerting and warning information, termed straightforwardly ‘Flood Alerts’ and ‘Flood Warnings’. Collaborating with SEPA, we conducted an online questionnaire survey of registered Floodline direct messaging recipients. In this article, our analysis focusses specifically on responses to three open‐ended questions included in this survey, with an iterative qualitative coding approach employed to interpret themes of meaning from the question responses. This analysis gives a clear indication that recipients value Floodline and direct messaging. However, there are also questions raised over the utility of Flood Alerts and related messaging, which we elaborate in the findings and discussion, along with the scope for adding content, linking to other information, and developing closer relationships. Changes being developed by SEPA align with several of these findings.
Hospitalisation and mortality among privately insured individuals with COVID‐19 in the United States: The role of intellectual disabilities and Neurogenetic disorders
Authors: Davis A. , Copeland‐Linder N. , Phuong K. , Belcher H. , van Eck K.
Published: February 2024

Background

Individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs) and neurogenetic conditions (IDNDs) are at greater risk for comorbidities that may increase adverse outcomes for this population when they have coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The study aims are to examine the population‐level odds of hospitalisation and mortality of privately insured individuals with COVID‐19 with and without IDNDs IDs, controlling for sociodemographics and comorbid health conditions.

Methods

This is a retrospective, cross‐sectional study of 1174 individuals with IDs and neurogenetic conditions within a population of 752 237 de‐identified, privately insured, US patients diagnosed with COVID‐19 between February 2020 and September 2020. Odds of hospitalisation and mortality among COVID‐19 patients with IDNDs adjusted for demographic characteristics, Health Resources and Services Administration region, states with Affordable Care Act and number of comorbid health conditions were analysed.

Results

Patients with IDNDs overall had higher rates of COVID‐19 hospitalisation than those without IDNDs (35.01% vs. 12.65%, P < .0001) and had higher rates of COVID‐19 mortality than those without IDNDs (4.94% vs. .88%, P < .0001). Adjusting for sociodemographic factors only, the odds of being hospitalised for COVID‐19 associated with IDNDs was 4.05 [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.56–4.61]. Adjusting for sociodemographic factors and comorbidity count, the odds of hospitalisation for COVID‐19 associated with IDNDs was 1.42 (95% CI 1.25–1.61). The odds of mortality from COVID‐19 for individuals with IDNDs adjusted for sociodemographic factors only was 4.65 (95% CI 3.47–6.24). The odds of mortality from COVID‐19 for patients with IDNDs adjusted for sociodemographic factors and comorbidity count was 2.70 (95% CI 2.03–3.60). A major finding of the study was that even when considering the different demographic structure and generally higher disease burden of patients with IDNDs, having a IDND was an independent risk factor for increased hospitalisation and mortality compared with patients without IDNDs.

Conclusions

Individuals with IDNDs had significantly higher odds of hospitalisation and mortality after adjusting for sociodemographics. Results remained significant with a slight attenuation after adjusting for sociodemographics and comorbidities. Adjustments for comorbidity count demonstrated a dose–response increase in odds of both hospitalisation and mortality, illustrating the cumulative effect of health concerns on COVID‐19 outcomes. Together, findings highlight that individuals with IDNDs experience vulnerability for negative COVID‐19 health outcomes with implications for access to comprehensive healthcare.
Mass spectrometry imaging highlights dynamic patterns of lipid co‐expression with Aβ plaques in mouse and human brains
Authors: Huang Helen Xuexia , Inglese Paolo , Tang Jiabin , Yagoubi Riad , Correia Gonçalo D. S. , Horneffer‐van der Sluis Verena M. , Camuzeaux Stephane , Wu Vincen , Kopanitsa Maksym V. , Willumsen Nanet , Jackson Johanna S. , Barron Anna M. , Saito Takashi , Saido Takaomi C. , Gentlemen Steve , Takats Zoltan , Matthews Paul M.
Published: February 2024

Lipids play crucial roles in the susceptibility and brain cellular responses to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and are increasingly considered potential soluble biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma. To delineate the pathological correlations of distinct lipid species, we conducted a comprehensive characterization of both spatially localized and global differences in brain lipid composition in AppNL‐G‐F mice with spatial and bulk mass spectrometry lipidomic profiling, using human amyloid‐expressing (h‐Aβ) and WT mouse brains controls. We observed age‐dependent increases in lysophospholipids, bis(monoacylglycerol) phosphates, and phosphatidylglycerols around Aβ plaques in AppNL‐G‐F mice. Immunohistology‐based co‐localization identified associations between focal pro‐inflammatory lipids, glial activation, and autophagic flux disruption. Likewise, in human donors with varying Braak stages, similar studies of cortical sections revealed co‐expression of lysophospholipids and ceramides around Aβ plaques in AD (Braak stage V/VI) but not in earlier Braak stage controls. Our findings in mice provide evidence of temporally and spatially heterogeneous differences in lipid composition as local and global Aβ‐related pathologies evolve. Observing similar lipidomic changes associated with pathological Aβ plaques in human AD tissue provides a foundation for understanding differences in CSF lipids with reported clinical stage or disease severity.

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Nationwide status of progestogen treatment to prevent spontaneous preterm birth: A questionnaire survey for childbirth healthcare facilities in Japan
Authors: Kawabata Ikuno , Nagamatsu Takeshi , Yoneda Satoshi , Oi Rie , Matsuda Yoshio , Nakai Akihito , Otsuki Katsufumi
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the current status of progestogen treatment for pregnant women at a high risk for preterm birth (PTB) in childbirth healthcare facilities in Japan.

Methods

A web‐based nationwide questionnaire survey regarding progestogen use for prevention of PTB was conducted among childbirth healthcare facilities from 2019 to 2021.

Results

Valid responses were obtained from 528 facilities (25.2% of those surveyed), including 155 tertiary perinatal facilities (making up 92.3% of all tertiary perinatal care facilities). In the survey period, progestogen treatment was implemented in 207 facilities (39.2%) for PTB prevention. Regarding types of progestogens, 17α‐hydroxyprogesterone caproate was used in 170 facilities (82.1%), with a low dose (125 mg/week) administered in 62.9% of the facilities to comply with the regulations of the national health insurance system, although 250 mg/week is considered the best dose. Vaginal progesterone was used in 36 facilities (17.4%), although the cost of vaginal progesterone was not covered by health insurance. Of the facilities not administering progestogen treatment, approximately 40% expressed that vaginal progesterone would be their first choice for PTB prevention in daily practice if it would be covered by health insurance in the future.

Conclusions

Due to the current regulations of the Japanese health insurance system, 17α‐hydroxyprogesterone caproate, rather than vaginal progesterone, was mainly used for PTB prevention. Despite global evidence supporting vaginal progesterone as the approach with the highest efficacy, only a limited number of facilities have utilized it due to the current drug use regulations in Japan.
Inequitable Changes in School Connectedness During the Ongoing COVID‐19 Pandemic in a Cohort of Canadian Adolescents
Authors: Patte Karen A. , Gohari Mahmood R. , Faulkner Guy , Bélanger Richard E. , Leatherdale Scott T.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

We examined whether subgroups of adolescents experienced disparate changes in school connectedness—a robust predictor of multiple health outcomes—from before the COVID‐19 pandemic to the first full school year following pandemic onset.

METHODS

We used 2 waves of prospective survey data from 7178 students attending 41 Canadian secondary schools that participated during the 2019‐2020 (T1; pre‐COVID‐19 onset) and 2020‐2021 (T2; ongoing pandemic) school years. Fixed effects analyses tested differences in school connectedness changes by gender, race, bullying victimization, socioeconomic position, and school learning mode.

RESULTS

Relatively greater declines in school connectedness were reported by students that identified as females, were bullied, perceived their family to be less financially comfortable than their classmates, and attended schools in lower income areas. Marginally greater school connectedness declines resulted among students attending schools that were fully online at T2 than those at schools using a blended model.

CONCLUSION

Results point to disparate school connectedness declines during the pandemic, which may exacerbate pre‐existing health inequities by gender and socioeconomic position, and among bullied youth.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY

Effective strategies to improve school climates for equity denied groups are critical for pandemic recovery and preparedness for future related events.
Impact of corn silage or corn silage plus protein supplementation on the ingestive and rumination behaviours, ruminal fermentation characteristics and efficiency of grazing dairy cows
Authors: Rombach Markus , Schori Fredy , Dohme‐Meier Frigga , Südekum Karl‐Heinz , Münger Andreas
Published: February 2024

This study's objective was to compare two options of pasture supplementation: corn silage (CS) alone or corn silage mixed with protein concentrate. The experiment was conducted with 18 lactating Holstein cows in mid‐lactation in a crossover design that included three treatments and three data collection periods. All cows had access to pasture for 17 h/day with an average herbage allowance of 16 kg dry matter (DM)/cow/day and were offered in‐barn corn silage, corn silage mixed with protein concentrate, or no supplementation. Cows were equipped with pH sensors residing in the reticulum and, during the 7‐day data collection periods, with a jaw movement recorder. Nonsupplemented cows produced 21.3 kg energy‐corrected milk (ECM) and ate 13.3 kg DM herbage at pasture. Cows supplemented with corn silage and corn silage plus protein produced 2.5 and 4.5 kg/day more ECM, respectively, consumed 3.4 and 3.3 kg/day more DM in total, respectively, ate for a shorter period of time, and ruminated longer than their nonsupplemented peers. Supplemented cows were almost able to cover their energy requirements and mobilised less body mass in contrast to the nonsupplemented cows. Cows offered corn silage plus protein showed increased ECM production, increased milk urea content and lower nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) compared to cows supplemented with corn silage only. Nonsupplemented dairy cows had the highest milk urea content and performed worst in terms of NUE. The best feed conversion efficiency resulted from the nonsupplemented dairy cows and those supplemented with corn silage plus protein. In nonsupplemented cows, the high feed conversion efficiency seemed to be due to the increased mobilisation of body mass. As a result of the starch‐rich supplementations, the ruminal acetic:propionic acid ratio became smaller, and the proportions of n‐butyric acid increased. The mean reticular pH values did not substantially vary across the three feeding treatments. For the choice of a supplementation option, herbage allowance and cost of supplement will have to be considered, but aspects of feed–food competition as well as animal welfare should not be ignored.
Development of the Engagement with Beauty Scale‐Revised, Japanese Version (EBS‐R‐J), and Confirmation of its Validity and Reliability
Authors: Liu Jingni , Diessner Rhett , Fukushima Hirokata
Published: February 2024

Appreciation of beauty is an ability to find, recognize, and emotionally respond to beauty. It is often considered to be associated with several psychological fields, such as forms of the good life, love, transcendence, and exploration. The Engagement with Beauty Scale‐Revised (EBS‐R) is one of the most comprehensive scales for measuring the beauty appreciation trait. In this study, we have developed the Japanese version of this scale (EBS‐R‐J) and confirmed its reliability and validity through two surveys conducted in Japan. Specifically, this study has not only validated the original four‐factor structure of the EBS‐R‐J, but also revealed an alternative five‐factor model. Both models had satisfactory internal consistency estimates for the total score and subscales, had verified concurrent validity through examining correlations with the Aesthetic Emotions Scale (AESTHEMOS), had verified known‐groups validity by comparing the scores of the EBS‐R‐J between groups of art‐experienced and art‐inexperienced individuals, and confirmed the temporal reliability of the EBS‐R‐J by means of correlation coefficients for a 4‐week interval for the total score and each subscale score. In conclusion, the EBS‐R‐J developed in this study has relatively satisfactory reliability and validity, indicating that it represents a valid measure of the trait of beauty appreciation in the Japanese language.
Tetraether archaeal lipids promote long‐term survival in extreme conditions
Authors: Liman Geraldy Lie Stefanus , Garcia Andy A. , Fluke Kristin A. , Anderson Hayden R. , Davidson Sarah C. , Welander Paula V. , Santangelo Thomas J.
Published: February 2024

The sole unifying feature of the incredibly diverse Archaea is their isoprenoid‐based ether‐linked lipid membranes. Unique lipid membrane composition, including an abundance of membrane‐spanning tetraether lipids, impart resistance to extreme conditions. Many questions remain, however, regarding the synthesis and modification of tetraether lipids and how dynamic changes to archaeal lipid membrane composition support hyperthermophily. Tetraether membranes, termed glycerol dibiphytanyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs), are generated by tetraether synthase (Tes) by joining the tails of two bilayer lipids known as archaeol. GDGTs are often further specialized through the addition of cyclopentane rings by GDGT ring synthase (Grs). A positive correlation between relative GDGT abundance and entry into stationary phase growth has been observed, but the physiological impact of inhibiting GDGT synthesis has not previously been reported. Here, we demonstrate that the model hyperthermophile Thermococcus kodakarensis remains viable when Tes (TK2145) or Grs (TK0167) are deleted, permitting phenotypic and lipid analyses at different temperatures. The absence of cyclopentane rings in GDGTs does not impact growth in T. kodakarensis, but an overabundance of rings due to ectopic Grs expression is highly fitness negative at supra‐optimal temperatures. In contrast, deletion of Tes resulted in the loss of all GDGTs, cyclization of archaeol, and loss of viability upon transition to the stationary phase in this model archaea. These results demonstrate the critical roles of highly specialized, dynamic, isoprenoid‐based lipid membranes for archaeal survival at high temperatures.