bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of the Nature Experiences Questionnaire: A brief multidimensional measure of nature connection
Authors: Hague Leah , Brough Paula , Buckley Ralf , Burton Nicola , Spedding Jason
Published: August 2024

Nature connection is a common construct in research examining relationships between the natural environment and human well‐being. The multidimensionality of the concept is often described but rarely reflected in existing unidimensional measures, which can also be limited by poor psychometric characteristics. This research aimed to develop and validate a new brief (9‐item) multidimensional self‐report measure: The Nature Experiences Questionnaire (NEQ). Scale items were formulated from a review of relevant literature and in consultation with experts. Study 1 investigated the underlying structure using exploratory factor analysis in a sample of 142 undergraduate psychology students. The resulting three‐factor solution was replicated in Studies 2 and 3 using confirmatory factor analyses in independent samples of community members (n = 231) and workers (n = 2629). The NEQ was positively correlated with two existing measures of nature connection, and the three subscales (nature affect, cognitions and behaviour) predicted more variance in well‐being. The NEQ demonstrated robust psychometric properties over time and was predictive of worker well‐being, relaxation from work and job satisfaction. The implications and recommendations for the use of this measure are discussed.
Development of hepatic fibrosis in common variable immunodeficiency‐related porto‐sinusoidal vascular disorder
Authors: Hercun Julian , Asif Bilal , Vittal Anusha , Ahmed Abdel , Gopalakrishna Pillai Harish Kumar , Bergerson Jenna R. E. , Holland Steven , Uzel Gulbu , Strober Warren , Fuss Ivan J. , Koh Christopher , Kleiner David E. , Heller Theo
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Liver involvement is an increasingly recognised complication of common variable immunodeficiency (CVID). Nodular regenerative hyperplasia (NRH), a subgroup of porto‐sinusoidal vascular disorder, and manifestations of portal hypertension (PH) unrelated to cirrhosis are the most common findings. Nonetheless, the evolution of liver disease over time remains unknown.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients followed at the National Institutes of Health with CVID‐related liver disease and liver biopsy from 1990 to 2020. Clinical, imaging and histological follow‐up were recorded as part of clinical research protocols.

Results

Forty patients were included, with a median age of 37.5 years at initial biopsy, 73% presenting with clear evidence of NRH, and a median fibrosis stage of 1. At biopsy, median platelet count was 100 × 109/L, spleen size 19.5 cm, hepatic venous pressure gradient 9.5 mmHg and 37.5% of patients had signs of PH. Cumulative incidence of PH was 65% at 5 years. In a subgroup of 16 patients, a follow‐up liver biopsy, performed at a median time of 3 years after the index biopsy, revealed an increase in fibrosis by ≥2 stages in 31% of cases and an increase to an overall stage of 2.2 (p = 0.001). No clinical or histological factors were associated with progression of fibrosis.

Conclusions

In this CVID cohort, NRH is the most common initial histological finding; however, unexpectedly fibrosis progresses over time in a subgroup of patients. A better understanding of the underlying causal process of liver disease CVID might lead to improved outcomes.
Spiritual and environmental well‐being: Factors supporting adaptation of Pacific peoples during pandemic times
Authors: Scheyvens Regina , Movono Apisalome , Auckram Jessie , Faaiuaso Leilani
Published: August 2024

Most Western models of well‐being focus only on social, mental, financial and physical well‐being. Collecting data on how tourism‐dependent communities in the South Pacific had adapted to the dramatic impacts of the pandemic, we became aware of the significance of spiritual and environmental dimensions of well‐being. We also identified several Pacific well‐being models that incorporate these dimensions. This article thus examines how COVID‐19 lockdowns influenced the spiritual and environmental well‐being of Pacific peoples living in tourism‐dependent areas. It demonstrates that many people were able to adapt well despite dramatic changes in their financial situation and restrictions on their mobility. They often showed deep appreciation about having more time for religious practices and to care for others in their communities, and they enjoyed working more with nature, on the land or in the ocean, and looking after the environment. We conclude that if the tourism industry can rebuild in ways that support spiritual and environmental well‐being, this could mean tourism will be appreciated more by resident communities as something which compliments – rather than competes with – their culture and way of life.
Negative family expressiveness and adolescents' externalizing problems: Respiratory sinus arrhythmia as a moderator and anger regulation as a mediator
Authors: Li Man , Xu Tong , Li Min , Qiu Lirong , He Fengjiao , Lan Qili , Zhang Linlin , Wang Li
Published: August 2024

Family environment, emotion regulation and biological sensitivity have been shown to be associated with adolescents' externalizing problem behaviours. However, findings regarding respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) reactivity are mixed and sometimes contradictory. This study aims to clarify the roles of RSA reactivity and anger regulation in the relationship between negative family expressiveness (NFE) and adolescents' externalizing behaviour by measuring RSA reactivity during the Parent–Adolescent Interaction Task (PAIT), designed to simulate a naturalistic negative family environment. In this study, 125 Chinese adolescents (M = 13.95 years, SD = 0.95; 48% male) completed questionnaires assessing negative family expressiveness, anger regulation and externalizing problems. Additionally, we collected electrocardiogram and respiration data during both the resting period and a 10‐min PAIT. Results showed that anger regulation mediated the relationship between NFE and externalizing problem behaviours. Moreover, adolescents' RSA reactivity moderated this mediation effect, even after controlling for baseline RSA. Greater RSA suppression potentially indicated greater susceptibility, with the relationship between NFE and anger regulation being more pronounced in adolescents with greater RSA suppression compared to those with lesser RSA suppression. These findings highlight the importance of considering physiological systems, especially within the context of adverse family environments, when studying the relationships with externalizing problems.
Impacts of exposure to and subsequent discontinuation of clozapine on tripartite synaptic transmission
Authors: Okada Motohiro , Fukuyama Kouji , Motomura Eishi
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose

Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic for treatment‐resistant schizophrenia, but its discontinuation leads to discontinuation syndrome/catatonia complicated by benzodiazepine‐resistance and rhabdomyolysis.

Experimental Approach

This study determined time‐dependent effects of exposure and subsequent discontinuation of clozapine on expression of connexin43, 5‐HT receptors, intracellular L‐β‐aminoisobutyrate (L‐BAIBA) and 2nd‐messengers and signalling of AMPK, PP2A and Akt in cultured astrocytes and rat frontal cortex.

Key Results

Intracellular L‐BAIBA levels increased during clozapine exposure but immediately recovered after discontinuation. Both exposure to clozapine and L‐BAIBA increased connexin43 and signalling of AMPK/Akt time‐dependently, but reduced PP2A signalling, 5‐HT receptor expression and IP3 level. These changes recovered within 2 weeks after discontinuation, while 5‐HT receptors and IP3 transiently increased during the recovery process. L‐BAIBA activated AMPK signalling, leading to attenuated PP2A signalling. Astroglial D‐serine release was increased by clozapine exposure but continued to increase within 1 week after discontinuation via activation of IP3 receptor function.

Conclusion and Implications

Clozapine discontinuation restored PP2A signalling due to decreased L‐BAIBA, increased 5‐HT receptor expression via probably enhanced 5‐HT receptor recycling, but increased astroglial D‐serine release persisted by transiently activated IP3 receptors via transiently increased IP3 level. Decreased L‐BAIBA caused by clozapine discontinuation is, at least partially, involved in the transiently increased 5‐HT receptor and astroglial D‐serine release.
Identification of copy‐number variants in patients with overgrowth disorders
Authors: Parra Alejandro , Tenorio‐Castano Jair , Nevado Julián , Cazalla Mario , Miranda‐Alcaraz Lucía , Gallego‐Zazo Natalia , Silván Cristina , Arias Pedro , Pozo‐Román Jesús , Ballesta‐Martínez María Juliana , Guillén‐Navarro Encarna , Arroyo Ignacio , Lotersztein Vanesa , Cosentino Viviana , González‐Meneses Antonio , Galán Enrique , Rosell Jordi , Ramos Feliciano ,   Spanish OverGrowth Registry Initiative, Lapunzina Pablo
Published: August 2024

Overgrowth syndromes (OGS) comprise a heterogeneous group of disorders whose main characteristic is that the weight, height or the head circumference are above the 97th centile or 2–3 standard deviations above the mean for age, gender, and ethnic group. Several copy‐number variants (CNVs) have been associated with the development of OGS, such as the 5q35 microdeletion or the duplication of the 15q26.1‐qter, among many others. In this study, we have applied 850K SNP‐arrays to 112 patients and relatives with OGS from the Spanish OverGrowth Registry Initiative. We have identified CNVs associated with the disorder in nine individuals (8%). Subsequently, whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis was performed in these nine samples in order to better understand these genomic imbalances. All the CNVs were detected by both techniques, settling that WGS is a useful tool for CNV detection. We have found six patients with genomic abnormalities associated with previously well‐established disorders and three patients with CNVs of unknown significance, which may be related to OGS, based on scientific literature. In this report, we describe these findings and comment on genes associated with OGS that are located within the CNV regions.
The systemic impact of non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis with or without adjunctive systemic metronidazole: Secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Liñares Antonio , Dopico Jose , Blanco Carlota , Pico Alex , Sobrino Tomás , Blanco Juan , Leira Yago
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the systemic effect of non‐surgical peri‐implantitis treatment (NSPIT) with or without the administration of systemic metronidazole.

Methods

In this secondary analysis from a previously published clinical trial (NCT03564301), peri‐implantitis patients were randomized into two groups: test, receiving NSPIT plus 500 mg of oral systemic metronidazole three times a day for 7 days (n = 10); and control group, receiving NSPIT plus placebo (n = 11). Serum samples were obtained at baseline, 3 and 6 months after therapy to determine levels of inflammatory biomarkers, lipid fractions and complete blood counts.

Results

Both treatment modalities produced improvements in clinical and radiographic parameters. After 6 months from NSPIT, a substantial reduction in C‐reactive protein (6.9 mg/dL; 95% CI: 3.7 to 9.9, p < .001) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (21.8 mg/dL; 95% CI: −6.9 to 50.5, p = .013) as well as a modest increase in neutrophils counts (0.4 × 103/μL; 95% CI: −0.4 to 1.1, p = .010) was observed in the control group while the test group showed a significant reduction of TNF‐α (110.1; 95% CI: 38.9 to 181.4, p = .004).

Conclusions

NSPIT showed a short‐term beneficial systemic effect regardless of adjunctive use of systemic metronidazole.
Control or coexist with urban baboons: Exploring residents' views and values in Cape Town
Authors: Psiuk Kinga , Enqvist Johan
Published: August 2024

Humans and wildlife increasingly share urban space, which elevates the risk of negative interactions. Management efforts conventionally focus on controlling species that are considered problematic, but polarization in affected communities' perceptions and values may pose a greater problem for management in cities where ideas about preferred human–wildlife interactions vary greatly. This study uses Q‐method to investigate what type of human‐baboon relations are desirable among residents from seven areas in Cape Town regularly visited by chacma baboons. Two main perspectives emerged, each is motivated by a distinct set of values: 'Live with Baboons' is focused on positive outcomes for nature and society, recognizing humans' responsibility to mitigate negative interactions; whereas 'Control and Manage Baboons' views nature as something that should be controlled in order to maintain a stable and safe human society. Despite differences, the two perspectives also agree in rejecting abusive language toward baboons, recognizing that contexts differ and require different solutions, and acknowledging that resolving conflict requires collaboration. This has important bearing for recent public engagement processes led by local authorities to review management strategies. Residents' values and perceptions are manifestations of different lived realities and actively engaging with them can help to nuance dichotomies in the baboon discourse.
A case study of inclusion of rural populations in research: Implications for science and health equity
Authors: Noonan Devon , Lam Wendy K. K. , Goodrich James , Sullivan Sydney , Bentley‐Edwards Keisha , Koeberl Dwight , Palipana Anushka , McClernon F. Joseph
Published: August 2024

Prior research highlights that rural populations have been historically underrepresented/excluded from clinical research. The primary objective of this study was to describe the inclusion of rural populations within our research enterprise using Clinical Research Management System demographic information at a large academic medical center in the Southeast. This was a cross‐sectional study using participant demographic information for all protocols entered into our Clinical Research Management System between May 2018 and March 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the representation of rural and non‐rural participants and demographic breakdown by age, sex, race, and ethnicity for our entire enterprise and at the state level. We also compared Material Community Deprivation Index levels between urban and rural participants. Results indicated that 19% of the research population was classified as rural and 81% as non‐rural for our entire sample, and 17.5% rural and 82.5% urban for our state‐level sample. There were significant differences in race, sex, and age between rural and non‐rural participants and Material Community Deprivation Indices between rural and non‐rural participants. Lessons learned and recommendations for increasing the inclusion of rural populations in research are discussed.
Commentary on ‘Development and validation of a minimally invasive protocol for assessing oxidative stress markers in exfoliated oral cells’
Authors: Arya Divyanshu Mohan , Gupta Shruti , Kapatia Gargi , Kumari Niraj
Published: August 2024

The assessment of reactive oxygen species (ROS) offers immense prospects for the diagnosis of chronic diseases. A protocol to assess redox imbalance in exfoliated cells can prove beneficial in our understanding of the role of ROS in the diagnosis of these diseases. Further studies on the development of such protocols are needed.
Comparison of clinical/histological outcomes according to puncture sites in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle biopsy for large pancreatic masses: Multicenter randomized prospective pilot study
Authors: Ko Sung Woo , Song Tae Jun , Oh Dongwook , Yoon Seung Bae , Oh Chi Hyuk , Park Jin‐Seok , Chang Jae Hyuck , Yoon Jai Hoon
Published: August 2024

Objectives

There are no recommendations regarding the optimal puncture site in endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle biopsy (EUS‐FNB). This multicenter randomized prospective study compared the diagnostic accuracy and histological findings according to the sampling site for pancreatic masses larger than 3 cm.

Methods

Consecutive patients with pancreatic masses larger than 3 cm indicated for EUS‐FNB were included in the study. Patients were randomly assigned to two groups for the initial puncture site (central vs. peripheral sampling of the masses). A minimum of four passes were performed, alternating between the center and the periphery. The primary outcome was diagnostic accuracy.

Results

A total of 100 patients were equally divided into the central group and the peripheral group. The final diagnosis revealed malignancy in 95 patients (pancreatic cancer [n = 89], neuroendocrine tumor [n = 4], lymphoma [n = 1], metastatic carcinoma [n = 1]), and benign conditions in five patients (chronic pancreatitis [n = 4], autoimmune pancreatitis [n = 1]). There was no significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between the puncture sites. However, combining samples from both areas resulted in higher diagnostic accuracy (97.0%) compared to either area alone, with corresponding values of 88.0% for the center (P = 0.02) and 85.0% for the periphery (P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Both central sampling and peripheral sampling showed equivalent diagnostic accuracy in detecting malignancy. However, combining samples from both areas generated superior diagnostic yield compared to using either sampling site alone. For pancreatic masses larger than 3 cm, it is advisable to consider sampling from various areas of the masses to maximize the diagnostic yield.
Optimising occurrence data in species distribution models: sample size, positional uncertainty, and sampling bias matter
Authors: Moudrý Vítězslav , Bazzichetto Manuele , Remelgado Ruben , Devillers Rodolphe , Lenoir Jonathan , Mateo Rubén G. , Lembrechts Jonas J. , Sillero Neftalí , Lecours Vincent , Cord Anna F. , Barták Vojtěch , Balej Petr , Rocchini Duccio , Torresani Michele , Arenas‐Castro Salvador , Man Matěj , Prajzlerová Dominika , Gdulová Kateřina , Prošek Jiří , Marchetto Elisa , Zarzo‐Arias Alejandra , Gábor Lukáš , Leroy François , Martini Matilde , Malavasi Marco , Cazzolla Gatti Roberto , Wild Jan , Šímová Petra
Published: August 2024

Species distribution models (SDMs) have proven valuable in filling gaps in our knowledge of species occurrences. However, despite their broad applicability, SDMs exhibit critical shortcomings due to limitations in species occurrence data. These limitations include, in particular, issues related to sample size, positional uncertainty, and sampling bias. In addition, it is widely recognised that the quality of SDMs as well as the approaches used to mitigate the impact of the aforementioned data limitations depend on species ecology. While numerous studies have evaluated the effects of these data limitations on SDM performance, a synthesis of their results is lacking. However, without a comprehensive understanding of their individual and combined effects, our ability to predict the influence of these issues on the quality of modelled species–environment associations remains largely uncertain, limiting the value of model outputs. In this paper, we review studies that have evaluated the effects of sample size, positional uncertainty, sampling bias, and species ecology on SDMs outputs. We build upon their findings to provide recommendations for the critical assessment of species data intended for use in SDMs.
The expression of immune checkpoint proteins PD‐L1 and TIM3 in mouse and human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Elmusrati Areeg , Wang Cun‐Yu
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the expression of programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) and of T cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain‐containing protein (TIM3) in oral epithelial dysplasia and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Mouse HNSCC was induced with 4‐nitroquinoline‐1 oxide (4NQO). Oral epithelial dysplastic lesions, carcinoma in situ and HNSCC lesions were stained with anti‐PD‐L1 and TIM3 antibodies. The expression of PD‐L1 and TIM3 in tumor cells and immune cells was semiquantitatively measured and compared. In parallel, human dysplasia and HNSCC were stained with anti‐PD‐L1 and anti‐TIM3. The expression pattern of PD‐L1+ and TIM3+ cells was further compared. In human and mouse samples both PD‐L1 and TIM3 were found to be expressed in neoplastic and immune cells in HNSCC, but not in dysplasia. There was no significant difference in PD‐L1 and TIM3 expression between metastatic and nonmetastatic HNSCC. We conclude that the 4NQO‐induced mouse HNSCC model may be an excellent preclinical model for immune checkpoint therapy.
Disclosure imperatives and women's subjectivities in an emergent culture of sexual trauma testimony
Authors: Ahmed Anu
Published: August 2024

Since the democratization of the Maldives, a Sunni‐Islamic nation in the Indian Ocean, the Greater Male’ Region (GMR) has been the site of rapid social reform efforts. The state's democratizing efforts and local engagements with global feminist and mental health movements have led to the emergence of a culture of giving and bearing witness to sexual trauma testimony. I propose the term “disclosure imperatives,” and outline the three public discourses that produce this imperative in the Maldivian context. Next, drawing on interviews with Maldivian women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse, I illuminate how disclosure imperatives shape women's subjectivity and sociality. Using a critical phenomenological approach, I show that disclosure imperatives are, counterproductively, experienced as moralizing in interlocutors’ lifeworlds. Beyond focusing on women's “voice” or its absence as “silence,” the concept of disclosure imperatives illuminates the emotional and moral affects that cultures of disclosure engender in everyday lives.
Niche breadth and divergence in sympatric cryptic coral species (Pocillopora spp.) across habitats within reefs and among algal symbionts
Authors: Burgess Scott C. , Turner Alyssa M. , Johnston Erika C.
Published: August 2024

While the presence of morphologically cryptic species is increasingly recognized, we still lack a useful understanding of what causes and maintains co‐occurring cryptic species and its consequences for the ecology, evolution, and conservation of communities. We sampled 724 Pocillopora corals from five habitat zones (the fringing reef, back reef, and fore reef at 5, 10, and 20 m) at four sites around the island of Moorea, French Polynesia. Using validated genetic markers, we identified six sympatric species of Pocillopora, most of which cannot be reliably identified based on morphology: P. meandrina (42.9%), P. tuahiniensis (25.1%), P. verrucosa (12.2%), P. acuta (10.4%), P. grandis (7.73%), and P. cf. effusa (2.76%). For 423 colonies (58% of the genetically identified hosts), we also used psbAncr or ITS2 markers to identify symbiont species (Symbiodiniaceae). The relative abundance of Pocillopora species differed across habitats within the reef. Sister taxa P. verrucosa and P. tuahiniensis had similar niche breadths and hosted the same specialist symbiont species (mostly Cladocopium pacificum) but the former was more common in the back reef and the latter more common deeper on the fore reef. In contrast, sister taxa P. meandrina and P. grandis had the highest niche breadths and overlaps and tended to host the same specialist symbiont species (mostly C. latusorum). Pocillopora acuta had the narrowest niche breadth and hosted the generalist, and more thermally tolerant, Durusdinium gynnii. Overall, there was a positive correlation between reef habitat niche breadth and symbiont niche breadth—Pocillopora species with a broader habitat niche also had a broader symbiont niche. Our results show how fine‐scale variation within reefs plays an important role in the generation and coexistence of cryptic species. The results also have important implications for how niche differences affect community resilience, and for the success of coral restoration practices, in ways not previously appreciated.
Impact of a single‐side 100Cr6 clad layer on the tensile and fatigue properties of S550MC steel
Authors: Krochmal M. , Wegener T. , Niendorf T.
Published: August 2024

The production of newly developed hot‐rolled layered metal composites (LMC) leads to the availability of sheet materials with specifically adjustable, graded properties being cost‐effective and suitable for large‐scale production. As many of the envisaged applications of these LMC, e.g., clutch disc carriers, suffer from cyclic loading during service life, a fundamental knowledge of the fatigue behavior is required in order to ensure safe and reliable application of the components. Therefore, the present study focuses on the fatigue behavior of a hot‐rolled two‐layer LMC consisting of a S550MC substrate layer and a 100Cr6 clad layer. In order to investigate the influence of the clad layer, two conditions are directly compared, i.e., the two‐layer laminate cladded steel and the single‐layer substrate condition. Results presented by mechanical testing include hardness measurements and tensile tests as well as strain‐controlled low‐cycle fatigue and stress‐controlled high‐cycle fatigue tests. These results are discussed based on evolution of microstructure, residual stress, and defects, respectively, as elaborated by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and fracture surface analysis.
Intensifying aridity induces tradeoffs among biodiversity and ecosystem services supported by trees
Authors: Ding Jingyi , Eldridge David
Published: August 2024

Aim

Changes in climate are likely to have major impacts on benefits (i.e., biodiversity and ecosystem services) supported by trees. Here we explore the extent to which trees can support multiple benefits, and the potential tradeoffs among them, under increasing dryness.

Location

Eastern Australia.

Time period

2018–2019.

Major taxa studied

Trees.

Methods

We evaluated changes in biodiversity and services supported by trees and the nature of potential tradeoffs in response to increasing aridity, our proxy of drying regional climates. We assessed six benefits (biodiversity and five ecosystem services) supported by trees at 126 sites across a gradient from Australia's mesic coast to the arid interior.

Results

The value of average benefits did not vary with aridity, with winners and losers in biodiversity and ecosystem services as aridity intensified. Tradeoffs between biodiversity and soil stability declined with increasing aridity, but only in mesic environments, whereas tradeoffs between wood production potential and carbon storage intensified under greater aridity levels, but only in mesic environments. Aridity and tree structure were the major regulators of these tradeoffs, particularly under dry environments. Increasing aridity affected tradeoffs directly or indirectly by either suppressing the positive effect of tree height or exacerbating the negative effect of tree canopy size.

Main conclusions

Our results indicate that biodiversity and most ecosystem services supported by trees are likely to decline under future climate change scenarios and demonstrate the importance of targeting afforestation programs to specific services in particular climatic areas rather than attempting to improve multiple services.
Association between oral frailty and nutritional status among hemodialysis patients aged ≥50 years
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Ohta Yuko , Furusho Natsuka , Kakuta Satoko , Muraoka Kosuke , Ansai Toshihiro , Awano Shuji , Fukuhara Masayo , Nakamura Hidetoshi
Published: August 2024

Aim

Malnutrition is a prevalent health issue among hemodialysis patients. Oral frailty, a condition characterized by impairments in multiple oral health aspects and functions, has been associated with nutritional status in the general population. We aimed to determine whether oral frailty was associated with nutritional status in hemodialysis patients aged ≥50 years. Our secondary aim was to determine the prevalence of oral frailty in this population.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included hemodialysis patients who were admitted to a single medical center. According to the Oral Frailty 5‐item Checklist, oral frailty is characterized by the presence of two or more of the following criteria: (i) fewer teeth, (ii) difficulty in chewing, (iii) difficulty in swallowing, (iv) dry mouth, and (v) low articulatory oral motor skills. Patients' nutritional status was assessed using the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI). Multivariable ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between oral frailty and nutritional status (classified into three categories according to the GNRI: >98, 92–98, and <92).

Results

In total, 152 hemodialysis patients (55 women and 97 men) with a mean age of 70.4 years were included. The prevalence of oral frailty was 61.2%. After adjusting for health characteristics and sociodemographic background, oral frailty was associated with poor nutritional status according to the GNRI (odds ratio = 2.04, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–4.09).

Conclusions

In this study, approximately 60% of hemodialysis patients aged ≥50 years exhibited oral frailty, and hemodialysis patients with oral frailty had poor nutritional status according to the GNRI. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 891–897.
An Analytical Method for Quantification of Sn Isotope Variations in Geological Materials Using MC‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Pathak Dipankar , Mezger Klaus
Published: August 2024

A robust analytical method is presented here, for measurements of Sn isotope variations with high precision using a multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometer (MC‐ICP‐MS). A silicate rock dissolution procedure was used, together with means to remove organic matter introduced by the resin during ion‐exchange chromatography. The two‐stage ion exchange chromatography efficiently isolates Sn from the matrix and isobarically interfering elements, from samples with variable Sn mass fractions (~ 0.03 to 7 μg g−1). A double spike technique was also implemented to correct any secondary mass bias induced during sample processing and isotope ratio measurements. An intermediate precision (2s) of ± 0.47 was obtained for ε122/118Sn (using internal normalisation; n = 70 over a period of 29 months), ± 0.021‰ for δ122/118Sn (using double spike; n = 176 over a period of 29 months) and ± 0.059‰ for δ122/118Sn (using Sb doping; n = 34 over a period of 4.5 months) for the Sn standard solution, NIST SRM 3161a (Lot# 140917). The δ122/118SnNIST SRM 3161a of eleven geological reference materials are reported for the first time (BIR‐1a, BRP‐1, DTS‐2b, ECRM 782‐1, JP‐1, OKUM, QLO‐1a, RGM‐2, SGR‐1b, STM‐2 and UB‐N), with five others (AGV‐2, BCR‐2, BHVO‐2, GSP‐2 and W‐2a) showing similar results to previous studies, generally with improved precision. The intermediate precision (2s) of replicate dissolutions of ten RMs (AGV‐2, BCR‐2, BHVO‐2, BIR‐1a, DTS‐2b, GSP‐2, OKUM, SGR‐1b, STM‐2 and W‐2a) varied from 0.003 to 0.054‰. Typical repeatability precision (2SE) of individual measurements of these ten RMs over multiple measurement sessions varied from 0.031 to 0.297‰ (with 120Sn+ beam intensity < 2.37 V) and 0.017 to 0.025‰ (with 120Sn+ beam intensity > 2.37 V).
Interest effect of international outsourcing, foreign investment, and welfare
Authors: Choi Jai‐Young , Yu Eden S. H.
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the welfare ramifications of international outsourcing in the presence of foreign investment initiated by outsourcing‐induced interest effect. Utilizing the Heckscher‐Ohlin model of general equilibrium, we show that unlike the common view that outsourcing renders negative effects on domestic employment, but positive effect on the welfare, (a) the output and employment effects of outsourcing are ultra‐biased such that it always increases (decreases) those of the outsourcing (nonoutsourcing) sector; (b) the effects of outsourcing on factor‐intensities and factor‐prices depend on the factor intensity ranking such that outsourcing occurring in the capital‐intensive (labor‐intensive) sector lowers (raises) the capital‐labor ratio of both the outsourcing and the nonoutsourcing sectors, lowers (raises) the real wage rate and raises (lowers) the real interest rate, and hence worsens (improves) income distribution; (c) in the presence of foreign investment, outsourcing in the capital‐intensive (labor‐intensive) sector may be welfare‐reducing (is always welfare‐increasing) due to increase (decrease) in the outsourcing‐induced interest payments for the foreign capital stock. Noting that international outsourcing nowadays serves as a key driving force for production fragmentation and supply chain formation, this paper discovers an important, but previously unnoticed feature in international outsourcing, namely, the outsourcing‐induced an interest rate effect on foreign capital movement.
A Scoping Review of Trauma, Mental Health and First Responders in Australia
Authors: Jones Rikki , Jackson Debra , Ranse Jamie , Arena Andrew , Clegg Lisa , Sutton Clare , Gayed Aimee , Rice Kylie , Usher Kim
Published: August 2024

Exposure to traumatic and/or violent events is an inherent part of the first responder role, which increases the risk of developing acute and chronic mental health symptoms and conditions. Suicidality for Australian first responders have recently increased with prevalence considered much higher compared with the general population. To inform specific recommendations for Australian first responders, there is a need to establish what evidence is available regarding these issues within the Australian context. The aim of this scoping review was to explore the impacts of trauma on the mental health of Australian first responders, the strategies recommended to address these issues and any unique needs in rural contexts. A scoping review was undertaken following PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Peer‐reviewed articles on Australian first responder mental health from seven databases were screened for inclusion. This review highlights that despite available evidence on the types of traumas and adverse mental health outcomes experienced, less evidence exists pertaining to intervention effectiveness. There are major gaps in evidence within rural and remote contexts which hinders effective planning and delivery of support for rural and regional first responders. Clinicians such as mental health nurses, particularly in rural areas, need to be aware of these gaps which impact planning and delivery of support and are in prime position to ensure screening, interventions and strategies are used and evaluated to determine their suitability for rural first responders.
Trends in use of intensive care during hospitalizations at the end‐of‐life among older adults with advanced cancer
Authors: Jain Snigdha , Long Jessica B. , Rao Vinay , Law Anica C. , Walkey Allan J. , Prsic Elizabeth , Lindenauer Peter K. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Gross Cary P.
Published: August 2024

Background

High‐intensity end‐of‐life (EOL) care, marked by admission to intensive care units (ICUs) or in‐hospital death, can be costly and burdensome. Recent trends in use of ICUs, life‐sustaining treatments (LSTs), and noninvasive ventilation (NIV) during EOL hospitalizations among older adults with advanced cancer and patterns of in‐hospital death are unknown.

Methods

We used SEER‐Medicare data (2003–2017) to identify beneficiaries with advanced solid cancer (summary stage 7) who died within 3 years of diagnosis. We identified EOL hospitalizations (within 30 days of death), classifying them by increasing intensity of care into: (1) without ICU; (2) with ICU but without LST (invasive mechanical ventilation, tracheostomy, gastrostomy, acute dialysis) or NIV; (3) with ICU and NIV but without LST; and (4) with ICU and LST use. We constructed a multinomial regression model to evaluate trends in risk‐adjusted hospitalization, overall and across hospitalization categories, adjusting for sociodemographics, cancer characteristics, comorbidities, and frailty. We evaluated trends in in‐hospital death across categories.

Results

Of 226,263 Medicare beneficiaries with advanced cancer, 138,305 (61.1%) were hospitalized at EOL [Age, Mean (SD):77.9(7.1) years; 45.5% female]. Overall, EOL hospitalizations remained high throughout, from 78.1% (95% CI: 77.4, 78.7) in 2004 to 75.5% (95% CI: 74.5, 76.2) in 2017. Hospitalizations without ICU use decreased from 49.3% (95% CI: 48.5, 50.2) to 35.0% (95% CI: 34.2, 35.9) while hospitalizations with more intensive care increased, from 23.7% (95% CI: 23.0, 24.4) to 28.7% (95% CI: 27.9, 29.5) for ICU without LST or NIV, 0.8% (95% CI: 0.6, 0.9) to 3.8% (95% CI: 3.4, 4.1) for ICU with NIV but without LST, and 4.3% (95% CI: 4.0, 4.7) to 8.0% (95% CI: 7.5, 8.5) for ICU with LST use. Among those who experienced in‐hospital death, the proportion receiving ICU care increased from 46.5% to 65.0%.

Conclusions

Among older adults with advanced cancer, EOL hospitalization rates remained stable from 2004–2017. However, intensity of care during EOL hospitalizations increased as evidenced by increasing use of ICUs, LSTs, and NIV.
Annotation and automated segmentation of single‐molecule localisation microscopy data
Authors: Umney Oliver , Leng Joanna , Canettieri Gianluca , Riobo‐Del Galdo Natalia A. , Slaney Hayley , Quirke Philip , Peckham Michelle , Curd Alistair
Published: August 2024

Single Molecule Localisation Microscopy (SMLM) is becoming a widely used technique in cell biology. After processing the images, the molecular localisations are typically stored in a table as xy (or xyz) coordinates, with additional information, such as number of photons, etc. This set of coordinates can be used to generate an image to visualise the molecular distribution, for example, a 2D or 3D histogram of localisations. Many different methods have been devised to analyse SMLM data, among which cluster analysis of the localisations is popular. However, it can be useful to first segment the data, to extract the localisations in a specific region of a cell or in individual cells, prior to downstream analysis. Here we describe a pipeline for annotating localisations in an SMLM dataset in which we compared membrane segmentation approaches, including Otsu thresholding and machine learning models, and subsequent cell segmentation. We used an SMLM dataset derived from dSTORM images of sectioned cell pellets, stained for the membrane proteins EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) and EREG (epiregulin) as a test dataset. We found that a Cellpose model retrained on our data performed the best in the membrane segmentation task, allowing us to perform downstream cluster analysis of membrane versus cell interior localisations. We anticipate this will be generally useful for SMLM analysis.
Preface to the special issue “Neuroimmunology”
Authors: Godbout Jonathan
Published: August 2024

This preface introduces the Special Issue on Neuroimmunology in the Journal of Neurochemistry. The basis of neuroimmunology is to understand functional interactions between cells of the immune system and the central nervous system (CNS). These cells communicate across systems because they share signaling molecules and corresponding receptors. Moreover, this cell signaling allows for dynamic bidirectional communication between the immune system and the brain both within the CNS proper as well as across peripheral organs. Because of this, Neuroimmunology intersects with many biological processes including immunity, behavior, endocrinology, metabolism, and pathology. Understanding neuroimmune interactions that influence CNS homeostasis is especially relevant in health and disease. This special issue comprises of 14 articles, representing 9 review articles and 5 original articles, covering the roles of neuroimmunology relevant to CNS injury, CNS & peripheral infections, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and COVID‐19. Thus, these articles highlight different aspects of neuroimmunology and signaling, and represent progress in understanding the consequences of inflammation on key communication pathways between the immune system and the brains.
Prolonged unemployment is associated with control loss and personal as well as social disengagement
Authors: Soral Wiktor , Bukowski Marcin , Bilewicz Michał , Cichocka Aleksandra , Lewczuk Karol , Marchlewska Marta , Rabinovitch Aleksandra , Rędzio Anna , Skrodzka Magdalena , Kofta Mirosław
Published: August 2024

Objective and Background

The need for control is a fundamental human motivation, that when deprived can lead to broad and substantial changes in human behavior. We aimed to assess the consequences of control deprivation in a real‐life situation that poses a severe threat to personal control: a prolonged unemployment.

Method

Using a sample N = 1055 of unemployed (n = 748) versus working (n = 307) individuals, we examined predictions derived from two models of reactions to control deprivation: control‐regaining and disengagement/withdrawal.

Results and Conclusions

We found that length unemployment is correlated with a psychological state strongly interfering with psychological as well as social functioning. While control‐regaining models of responding to lack of control have received virtually no support from our findings, our results provide evidence that long‐term unemployed individuals are more disengaged than working individuals. They are more apathetic, less likely to engage in control‐regaining efforts and in active forms of construing one's own future.
Adrenergic Agonists Activate Transcriptional Activity in Immortalized Neuronal Cells From the Mouse Suprachiasmatic Nucleus
Authors: Langiu Monica , Dehghani Faramarz , Hohmann Urszula , Bechstein Philipp , Rawashdeh Oliver , Rami Abdelhaq , Maronde Erik
Published: August 2024

The suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus (SCN) houses the central circadian oscillator of mammals. The main neurotransmitters produced in the SCN are γ‐amino‐butyric acid, arginine‐vasopressin (AVP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), pituitary‐derived adenylate cyclase‐activating peptide (PACAP), prokineticin 2, neuromedin S, and gastrin‐releasing peptide (GRP). Apart from these, catecholamines and their receptors were detected in the SCN as well. In this study, we confirmed the presence of β‐adrenergic receptors in SCN and a mouse SCN‐derived immortalized cell line by immunohistochemical, immuno‐cytochemical, and pharmacological techniques. We then characterized the effects of β‐adrenergic agonists and antagonists on cAMP‐regulated element (CRE) signaling. Moreover, we investigated the interaction of β‐adrenergic signaling with substances influencing parallel signaling pathways. Our findings have potential implications on the role of stress (elevated adrenaline) on the biological clock and may explain some of the side effects of β‐blockers applied as anti‐hypertensive drugs.
Probiotic, fructooligosaccharide and yeast extract mixture improves gut health in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss
Authors: Ahani Sara , Ahani Saman , Taheri Mirghaed Ali , Hoseini Seyyed Morteza , Pagheh Esmail , Arghideh Mohammad , Yousefi Morteza
Published: August 2024

The present study investigated the effects of a feed additive (FA) containing a probiotic consortium, fructooligosaccharide and yeast extract on growth performance, humoral immune responses, hepatic antioxidant parameters and intestine digestive enzymes, morphology and transcripts in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. The fish were reared for 8 weeks, feeding on diets containing 0 (CNT), 0.3 (0.3FA), 1 (1FA) and 2 (2FA) g/kg FA. The results showed that fish growth parameters were significantly and quadratically related to FA levels and FA treatments had better growth performance than CNT treatment. Intestinal amylase activity significantly increased in 2FA, whereas, intestinal protease activity increased in all FA treatments. Intestinal villus length and muscular layer thickness significantly increased in 0.3FA treatment. Blood leucocyte and lymphocyte counts, plasma lysozyme activity and hepatic glutathione content significantly increased in 0.3FA and 1FA treatments; whereas hepatic malondialdehyde significantly decreased in these treatments. Blood neutrophil and monocyte counts significantly increased in 0.3FA treatment, while plasma alternative complement activity significantly increased in 1FA treatments. Plasma bactericidal activities against Aeromonas hydrophila, Yersinia ruckeri and Streptococcus iniae, and intestinal expression of heat shock protein 70 and beta‐defensin significantly increased in all FA treatments. The abundance of A. hydrophila, Y. ruckeri and S. iniae in fish gut significantly decreased in 0.3FA treatment; these bacteria were absent in the intestines of 1FA and 2FA treatments. The present results suggest that dietary 0.3–1 g/kg of FA can significantly improve growth performance, immune response, intestinal health and hepatic antioxidant capacity in rainbow trout.
School health and nutrition services for children and adolescents in Tanzania: A review of policies and programmes
Authors: Sando David , Sachin Shinde , Moshi Grace , Sando Mary‐Mwanyika , Yussuf Mashavu , Mwakitalima Anyitike , Fawzi Wafaie
Published: August 2024

School health and nutrition programmes are effective strategies to address the health problems among school‐going children and adolescents. We examined the policy environments, successes and bottlenecks associated with school health and nutrition programmes in Tanzania. We used the ‘policy triangle framework’ to examine 22 national and regional school health and nutrition policies and programmes in Tanzania. We also interviewed 16 key informants to gain further insights into school health and nutrition programmes. Several school health and nutrition policies in Tanzania outline the basic elements of school‐based health and nutrition services. Yet, these documents neither recognise vulnerable groups, recommend age‐appropriate strategies to address children's and adolescents' varied and transient needs, nor provide a framework for implementing and tracking recommended activities. In these documents, underweight and infectious diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, are frequently identified as major concerns of young people, with little or no consideration of social determinants. Diverse strategies including school feeding, water and sanitation services, health and nutrition education and promotion of healthy behaviours are identified. In doing so, these documents adequately define the roles and responsibilities of all government actors, but young people and their guardians are not actively engaged in design and implementation. Additionally, there are several challenges to implementing these policies including budgetary constraints, limited resources, a lack of inter‐sectoral coordination and insufficient capacity within targeted schools. To improve the health and nutritional status of school‐going children and adolescents in Tanzania, adequate budgets, strengthened coordination and implementation efforts, the development of school‐based stakeholders' capacity, as well as the involvement of all other stakeholders, including adolescents, are imperative.
Viola fuscopurpurea (Violaceae), a new species from Chongqing, China
Authors: Dai Jingmin , Yi Si‐Rong , Huang Yanshuang , Zhang Hong‐Jing , Fan Qiang
Published: August 2024

Viola fuscopurpurea (Violaceae), a new species from Karst landform of Chongqing in China, is described and illustrated. The new species is most similar to V. fukienensis, but can be distinguished by nearly glabrous, shiny, adaxially purple blades (vs pubescent, adaxially green blades), brown seeds with conspicuous tubercles (versus yellow seeds with smooth surface), and hook‐like nectaries (versus triangular nectaries), as well as by general habit. Our phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS sequences, confirms that the new species belongs to V. subsect. Rostratae, and is most closely related to V. fukienensis in the phylogeny.