bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decades‐old carbon reserves are widespread among tree species, constrained only by sapwood longevity
Authors: Peltier Drew M. P. , Carbone Mariah S. , Ogle Kiona , Koch George W. , Richardson Andrew D.
Published: December 2024

Carbon reserves are distributed throughout plant cells allowing past photosynthesis to fuel current metabolism. In trees, comparing the radiocarbon (Δ14C) of reserves to the atmospheric bomb spike can trace reserve ages.

We synthesized Δ14C observations of stem reserves in nine tree species, fitting a new process model of reserve building. We asked how the distribution, mixing, and turnover of reserves vary across trees and species. We also explored how stress (drought and aridity) and disturbance (fire and bark beetles) perturb reserves.

Given sufficient sapwood, young (< 1 yr) and old (20–60+ yr) reserves were simultaneously present in single trees, including ‘prebomb’ reserves in two conifers. The process model suggested that most reserves are deeply mixed (30.2 ± 21.7 rings) and then respired (2.7 ± 3.5‐yr turnover time). Disturbance strongly increased Δ14C mean ages of reserves (+15–35 yr), while drought and aridity effects on mixing and turnover were species‐dependent. Fire recovery in Sequoia sempervirens also appears to involve previously unobserved outward mixing of old reserves.

Deep mixing and rapid turnover indicate most photosynthate is rapidly metabolized. Yet ecological variation in reserve ages is enormous, perhaps driven by stress and disturbance. Across species, maximum reserve ages appear primarily constrained by sapwood longevity, and thus old reserves are probably widespread.
How does co‐occurrence of Daphnia species affect their gut microbiome?
Authors: Houwenhuyse Shira , Massol François , Macke Emilie , De Meester Luc , Vanoverberghe Isabel , Stoks Robby , Decaestecker Ellen
Published: December 2024

Species co‐occurrence can lead to competitive interactions that influence fitness. Competition is typically assumed to be modulated by species niche, especially food‐acquisition related traits. The influence of interspecific interactions on host microbiome communities has rarely been considered, and yet may provide an alternative mechanism regarding the effect of host species co‐occurrence on their fitness. Here, we investigated whether the composition of the gut microbial community differs between two Daphnia species (D. magna and D. pulex), and whether the gut microbiome of one species depends on the presence of the other. We hypothesized the stronger filter‐feeder D. magna to have a larger effect on the gut microbiome of the weaker filter‐feeder D. pulex than vice versa. To this purpose, three D. magna and three D. pulex genotypes were first made axenic and then grown in monocultures or in co‐cultures in natural environmental bacterioplankton‐enriched water, before assessing the community composition of the gut microbiomes and bacterioplankton. We found that the composition of the gut microbiome of the two Daphnia species did not significantly differ overall. However, subtle differences (i.e. the relative abundance of certain bacteria) between mono‐ and co‐cultures were found at the Daphnia genotype level. For most genotype combinations (six out of nine), the microbiome of D. pulex changed more (i.e. distance in microbiome composition was more sensitive to culture type in D. pulex than in D. magna) when grown in co‐cultures with D. magna than in monocultures. This provides limited support for our hypothesis that the stronger filter‐feeder has a larger effect on the gut microbiome of the weaker one than vice versa, and that this effect is possibly mediated via the bacterioplankton community.
Transforming Healthcare in Low‐Resource Settings With Artificial Intelligence: Recent Developments and Outcomes
Authors: Dangi Ravi Rai , Sharma Anil , Vageriya Vipin
Published: December 2024

Background

Artificial intelligence now encompasses technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and robotics, allowing machines to undertake complex tasks traditionally done by humans. AI's application in healthcare has led to advancements in diagnostic tools, predictive analytics, and surgical precision.

Aim

This comprehensive review aims to explore the transformative impact of AI across diverse healthcare domains, highlighting its applications, advancements, challenges, and contributions to enhancing patient care.

Methodology

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, covering publications from 2014 to 2024. Keywords related to AI applications in healthcare were used to gather data, focusing on studies exploring AI's role in medical specialties.

Results

AI has demonstrated substantial benefits across various fields of medicine. In cardiology, it aids in automated image interpretation, risk prediction, and the management of cardiovascular diseases. In oncology, AI enhances cancer detection, treatment planning, and personalized drug selection. Radiology benefits from improved image analysis and diagnostic accuracy, while critical care sees advancements in patient triage and resource optimization. AI's integration into pediatrics, surgery, public health, neurology, pathology, and mental health has similarly shown significant improvements in diagnostic precision, personalized treatment, and overall patient care. The implementation of AI in low‐resource settings has been particularly impactful, enhancing access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatments.

Conclusion

AI is rapidly changing the healthcare industry by greatly increasing the accuracy of diagnoses, streamlining treatment plans, and improving patient outcomes across a variety of medical specializations. This review underscores AI's transformative potential, from early disease detection to personalized treatment plans, and its ability to augment healthcare delivery, particularly in resource‐limited settings.
Optimal Frequency of Interrupting Prolonged Sitting for Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Crossover Trials
Authors: Yin Mingyue , Xu Kai , Deng Jianfeng , Deng Shengji , Chen Zhili , Zhang Boyi , Zhong Yuming , Li Hansen , Zhang Xing , Toledo Meynard John L. , Diaz Keith M. , Li Yongming
Published: December 2024

Increasing evidence highlights the efficacy of interruptions in prolonged sitting (i.e., activity/sedentary breaks) for improving cardiometabolic health, but precise conclusions and recommendations regarding the optimal interruption frequency remain poorly defined. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to directly compare the effect of different frequencies of interrupting prolonged sitting on cardiometabolic health and to determine potential moderators. Randomized crossover trials with at least two frequency interruptions compared to a prolonged sitting condition were identified via systematic review. We compared the acute effects of high‐frequency (≤ 30 min per bout, HF) versus low‐frequency (> 30 min per bout, LF) interruption protocols on various cardiometabolic health outcomes via three‐level meta‐analysis with pooled effects evaluated within a random‐effects model and exploration of potential sources of heterogeneity through subgroup analyses. The quality of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Thirteen studies with 211 participants (24–66 years, 41% female) were included. When comparing HF to LF condition, the HF had a significantly greater reduction in glucose (9 studies [n = 740]; Hedge's g = −0.30, 95% CI [−0.57, −0.03], p = 0.03; I2‐level 3 = 42%, PI [−1.01, 0.41]). However, there was no difference in insulin (4 studies [n = 304]; Hedge's g = −0.22, 95% CI [−0.73, 0.29], p = 0.35; I2‐level 3 = 52%, PI [−1.18, 0.74]), triglyceride (3 studies [n = 484]; Hedge's g = 0.11, 95% CI [−0.10, 0.30], p = 0.29; I2‐level 3 = 0%, PI [−0.10, 0.30]), blood pressure (5 studies [n = 352]; Hedge's g = −0.06, 95% CI [−0.41, 0.28], p = 0.69; I2‐level 3 = 35%, PI [−0.81, 0.62]), and superficial femoral flow‐mediated dilation (3 studies [n = 98]; Hedge's g = −0.42, 95% CI [−2.43, 1.60], p = 0.47; I2‐level 3 = 78%, PI [−4.09, 3.25]) between the two conditions. The quality of evidence was low GRADE for all outcomes. The present study suggests that a higher sedentary interruption frequency might be more efficacious than a lower frequency/higher duration protocol for reducing glucose levels. Based on these findings, interrupting sedentary time at least, every 30 min may be an ideal strategy to improve glucose control.
Severe community‐acquired pneumonia compared to severe community‐acquired Acinetobacter baumannii pneumonia in Reunion Island: A retrospective study
Authors: Rotini Giacomo , de Mangou Axel , Combe Agathe , Renou Amelie , Combe Chloe , Cally Radj , Lagrange‐Xelot Marie , Allou Nicolas , Miltgen Guillaume , Vidal Charles
Published: December 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab) has emerged in the last decades as a cause of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in tropical and subtropical regions. We previously conducted the first investigation on this topic in France with a case series of severe CAP‐Ab in Reunion Island over an eight‐year period. In the present work, we aim to highlight the specific aspects of CAP‐Ab by comparing our case series with an historical cohort (PAC_RUN), obtained by retrospective chart review (2016–2021) of severe community‐acquired pneumonia cases on Reunion Island, in which CAP‐Ab was ruled out. During the study period, eight CAP‐Ab cases were identified, giving an incidence of 0.1 cases per 100,000 people/year, and an incidence of 16.5 cases per 100,000 people/year for non‐Ab‐related CAP (n = 761). By comparing with non‐Ab‐related CAP, patients had more excessive alcohol use (75% vs. 25.6%, p = 0.005) and lower body mass index (21 vs. 24 kg/m2, p = 0.004). Six cases (75%) of CAP‐Ab occurred during the rainy season (p = 0.06). Mortality was higher (62.5% vs. 24.3%, p = 0.02) and time to death was shorter (median 2 days vs. 7, p = 0.009) in the CAP‐Ab group. Bacteraemic pneumonia was strongly associated with CAP‐Ab (62.5% vs. 15.7%, p = 0.004). Significant differences were found in the need for renal replacement therapy (75% vs. 17.2%, p < 0.001), catecholamine use (100% vs. 54.5%, p = 0.01) and use of invasive mechanical ventilation (100% vs. 62.7%, p = 0.03). Also, in the proportion of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (62.5% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.02), septic shock (100% vs. 40.6%, p < 0.001), and cardiogenic shock (87.5% vs. 15.9%, p < 0.001). Compared to severe non‐Ab‐related CAP, severe CAP‐Ab is characterised by higher mortality, associated with a high frequency of multiple organ failure. Excessive alcohol consumption and malnutrition seem to be risk factors. To improve outcomes, broader spectrum antibiotic therapy must be immediately proposed when CAP‐Ab is suspected.
Kv4 channels improve the temporal processing of auditory neurons in the cochlear nucleus
Authors: Zhang Chuangeng , Wang Meijian , Zhang Tingting , Xie Ruili
Published: December 2024

Kv4 channels generate A‐type current known to regulate neuronal excitability. Its role in processing timing information is understudied, especially in the auditory system where temporal information is crucial for hearing. In the cochlear nucleus, principal bushy neurons are specialized for temporal processing with distinct biophysical properties owing to their expression of various voltage‐gated ion channels. Previous studies reported conflicting information regarding the expression and potential role of Kv4 channels in these neurons. We explored these questions using electrophysiology in CBA/CaJ mice of either sex. A‐type current was isolated from 88% of bushy neurons using Kv4 channel‐selective blocker Jingzhaotoxin‐X (JZ‐X), which increased the intrinsic excitability of bushy neurons without altering their synaptic input. During high‐rate activity, JZ‐X treatment significantly increased the spike jitter and reduced the firing threshold of bushy neurons. In old mice, A‐type current in bushy neurons reduced in magnitude but maintained current density, accompanied by decreased membrane surface area. In contrast, TEA‐sensitive Kv3 current reduced in both magnitude and current density, indicative of a greater contribution to the altered biophysical properties of bushy neurons during ageing. Our findings suggest that Kv4 channels play significant roles in regulating neuronal excitability and improving the temporal processing of bushy neurons. Such function is likely retained with age and is not the primary mechanism driving compromised temporal processing under age‐related hearing loss.

image

Key points

Most bushy neurons of the cochlear nucleus exhibit Kv4‐mediated A‐type current.

A‐type current regulates neuronal excitability of bushy neurons without contributing to the synaptic transmission at the endbulb of Held.

A‐type current increases the firing threshold and improves the temporal precision of spikes in bushy neurons during high‐rate activity.

A‐type current reduces peak amplitude in bushy neurons during ageing but maintains current density.

Decreased Kv3 current, rather than Kv4 current, likely play more significant roles in altering the biophysical properties of bushy neurons during ageing, contributing to compromised temporal processing during age‐related hearing loss.
Rheo-SINDy: Finding a constitutive model from rheological data for complex fluids using sparse identification for nonlinear dynamics
Authors: Sato Takeshi , Miyamoto Souta , Kato Shota
Published: December 2024

Rheology plays a pivotal role in understanding the flow behavior of fluids by discovering governing equations that relate deformation and stress, known as constitutive equations. Despite the importance of these equations, current methods for deriving them lack a systematic methodology, often relying on sense of physics and incurring substantial costs. To overcome this problem, we propose a novel method named Rheo-SINDy, which employs the sparse identification of nonlinear dynamics (SINDy) algorithm for discovering constitutive models from rheological data. Rheo-SINDy was applied to five distinct scenarios, four with well-established constitutive equations, and one without predefined equations. Our results demonstrate that Rheo-SINDy successfully identified accurate models for the known constitutive equations and derived physically plausible approximate models for the scenario without established equations. Notably, the identified approximate models can accurately reproduce nonlinear shear rheological properties, especially at steady state, including shear thinning. These findings validate the availability of Rheo-SINDy in handling data complexities and underscore its potential for advancing the development of data-driven approaches in rheology. Nevertheless, further refinement of learning strategies is essential for enhancing robustness to fully account for the complexities of real-world rheological data.
Evaluating a Community-Based Walking Program: A Mixed-Methods Assessment of Community Capacity
Authors: Spitz Lindsay , Valenzuela Roy , Salinas Jennifer J.
Published: December 2024

The Border Coalition for Fitness (BCF) is a university–community-based partnership that aims to improve physical activity rates in El Paso, Texas, via walking challenges. This mixed-methods program evaluation assessed the BCF’s efforts to expand the El Paso community’s capacity to support physical activity through the walking challenge campaign. Informants were divided between members, which was subdivided into BCF members and team captains, and walking challenge participants. Informants completed demographic and community capacity questionnaires that assessed 3 constructs: leadership (L), resources (R), and ability, and commitment to organizing action (C). Participants for this study were recruited by email through participant and member listservs. Of the 2000 participants with active emails, 102 agreed to participate. Quantitative results (n = 102) revealed high ratings across all constructs; however, BCF members consistently rated each construct higher than team captains (members L: 9.71; R: 9.50; C: 9.36 vs community leadership L: 7.97; R: 7.72; C: 7.59). BCF members (n = 5) and former walking challenge participants (n = 3) completed semistructured interviews. While qualitative results revealed BCF leadership is effective, programming is appropriately resourced, and the BCF does drives sustainable action in the community, there were areas the participants identify as areas that needed improvement. Specifically, participants felt that membership recruitment and retention should be improved, and that membership should include more community members and challenge participants.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies in Canadian Nonprofit Sport Organizations: A Management-by-Values Approach
Authors: Lachance Erik L. , Kerwin Shannon , MacCharles Jeffrey D.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine Canadian nonprofit sport organizations’ (NPSOs) diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies through a management-by-values approach. A sample of 757 Canadian national and provincial/territorial NPSOs was used. All NPSOs’ websites were consulted whereby documents were the sole data collection method (i.e., DEI-related publicly available policies and strategic plans to identify espoused values). Data were analyzed thematically according to the strategic plans and DEI policies collected from 69 NPSOs, with the remaining excluded (i.e., no DEI policy and/or espoused values). Results demonstrated that espoused values within the collected strategic plans are not represented in DEI policies. Most DEI policies remain largely intraorganizational and at an intuitive level, with few examples of inspirational-level management-by-values. With a push for values-based management in sport, the management-by-values approach suggests NPSOs’ DEI-related policies are managed intuitively, thereby only communicated internally and not strategically leveraged.
“Martyr or Moaner:” A Qualitative Study of Elite Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie Players’ Perceptions of Injury Surveillance
Authors: Gilhooly Marese , Cahalan Roisin , O’Sullivan Kieran , Norton Catherine
Published: December 2024

Context: Ladies Gaelic Football (LGF) is the fastest growing female sport in Europe and camogie is among the most popular female team sports in Ireland. Intercounty is considered the elite level, with high physical and technical demands that inevitably involve a risk of injury. At the elite level, an injury incidence as high or higher as professional sports such as rugby and soccer has been reported. Inadequate injury surveillance (IS) can be a barrier to effective injury prevention. This study aimed to (i) explore perspectives on IS and (ii) examine perceived barriers and facilitators to injury reporting of elite LGF and camogie players. Design: Qualitative descriptive study. Methods: Six focus groups were conducted with elite LGF (n = 11) and camogie (n = 10) players representing a range of divisions and intercounty panels. Participants outlined their understanding of IS and described IS practices within their teams. Participants completed a written task, noting and discussing perceived barriers and facilitators to injury reporting. Focus groups were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Participants’ report of current IS practices for their team echoed closely their interpretation of IS, as the reporting of injury to health care professionals (HCPs) and broader team personnel. Injury reporting was influenced by factors related to the player, the organization, and the environment including player mindset, access to HCPs and club culture. Conclusion: Enhanced and consistent access to appropriate HCPs is deemed key to monitoring and managing injuries. HCPs are central to fostering a culture of openness and trust, critical to facilitate the timely reporting and management of injuries in elite LGF and camogie. The influence of HCPs is powerful in players’ perceptions of barriers and facilitators to reporting and future work should capture their thoughts.
Interferon response and epigenetic modulation by
SMARCA4
mutations drive ovarian tumor immunogenicity
Authors: Brodeur Melica Nourmoussavi , Dopeso Higinio , Zhu Yingjie , Longhini Ana Leda F. , Gazzo Andrea , Sun Siyu , Koche Richard P. , Qu Rui , Rosenberg Laura , Hamard Pierre-Jacques , Bykov Yonina , Green Hunter , Gusain Laxmi , Chiappinelli Katherine B. , Ozsoy Melih Arda , Chui M. Herman , Basili Thais , Gardner Rui , Walderich Sven , DeStanchina Elisa , Greenbaum Benjamin , Gönen Mithat , Vabret Nicolas , Weigelt Britta , Zamarin Dmitriy
Published: December 2024

Cell-intrinsic mechanisms of immunogenicity in ovarian cancer (OC) are not well understood. Damaging mutations in the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, such as
SMARCA4
(BRG1), are associated with improved response to immune checkpoint blockade; however, the mechanism by which this occurs is unclear. We found that
SMARCA4
loss in OC models resulted in increased cancer cell–intrinsic immunogenicity, characterized by up-regulation of long-terminal RNA repeats, increased expression of interferon-stimulated genes, and up-regulation of antigen presentation machinery. Notably, this response was dependent on STING, MAVS, and IRF3 signaling but was independent of the type I interferon receptor. Mouse ovarian and melanoma tumors with
SMARCA4
loss demonstrated increased infiltration and activation of cytotoxic T cells, NK cells, and myeloid cells in the tumor microenvironment. These results were recapitulated in BRG1 inhibitor–treated
SMARCA4-
proficient tumor models, suggesting that modulation of chromatin remodeling through targeting
SMARCA4
may serve as a strategy to overcome cancer immune evasion.
Domain-specific representation of social inference by neurons in the human amygdala and hippocampus
Authors: Cao Runnan , Dubois Julien , Mamelak Adam N. , Adolphs Ralph , Wang Shuo , Rutishauser Ueli
Published: December 2024

Inferring the intentions and emotions of others from behavior is crucial for social cognition. While neuroimaging studies have identified brain regions involved in social inference, it remains unknown whether performing social inference is an abstract computation that generalizes across different stimulus categories or is specific to certain stimulus domain. We recorded single-neuron activity from the medial temporal lobe (MTL) and the medial frontal cortex (MFC) in neurosurgical patients performing different types of inferences from images of faces, hands, and natural scenes. Our findings indicate distinct neuron populations in both regions encoding inference type for social (faces, hands) and nonsocial (scenes) stimuli, while stimulus category was itself represented in a task-general manner. Uniquely in the MTL, social inference type was represented by separate subsets of neurons for faces and hands, suggesting a domain-specific representation. These results reveal evidence for specialized social inference processes in the MTL, in which inference representations were entangled with stimulus type as expected from a domain-specific process.
Landscape changes caused by the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake in Japan
Authors: Fukushima Yo , Ishimura Daisuke , Takahashi Naoya , Iwasa Yoshiya , Malatesta Luca C. , Takahashi Takayuki , Tang Chi-Hsien , Yoshida Keisuke , Toda Shinji
Published: December 2024

Landscapes are shaped by tectonic, climatic, and surface processes over geological timescales, but we rarely witness the events of marked landscape change. The moment magnitude 7.5 Noto Peninsula earthquake in central Japan was caused by a large thrust faulting, up to nearly 10 meters of slip, that expanded more than 150 kilometers along the fault zone. The deformation field reconstructed from satellite data and field surveys reveals up to 4.4 meters of uplift and associated coastal advance along the entire northern coast of the peninsula, meter-scale systematic movement of the mountain slopes consistent with slip on flexural faults, and activation of secondary inland faults, suggesting synchronized ruptures. The findings show excellent consistency between the coseismic deformation and geomorphic features and provide a vivid example of the role of a major earthquake in landscape formation.
Genomic epidemiology and genetic characteristics of clinical
Campylobacter
species cocirculating in West Bengal, India, 2019, using whole genome analysis
Authors: Morita Daichi , Mukhopadhyay Asish Kumar , Chowdhury Goutam , Maruyama Fumito , Kanda Miyuki , Yamamoto Yuki , Tahara Hidetoshi , Mukherjee Piyali , Bardhan Mainak , Kumagai Takanori , Kitahara Kei , Miyoshi Shin-Ichi , Dutta Shanta , Kuroda Teruo
Published: December 2024

Campylobacter
species are the most common pathogens responsible for foodborne gastroenteritis worldwide. India is a region with frequent diarrheal infections and a high level of
Campylobacter
infection incidence, but the detailed genomic information is limited. This study aimed to characterize 112 isolates of
Campylobacter
from diarrhea patients at two hospitals in Kolkata, West Bengal, by whole genome analysis. The
Campylobacter
isolates consisted of 90
C
.
jejuni
, 20
C
.
coli
, and 2
C
.
lari
isolates. Multilocus sequence typing analysis revealed that the largest sequence type (ST) populations were ST-2131 in
C. jejuni
and ST-830 in
C. coli
and seven novel STs were found in
C. jejuni
and one in
C. coli
. Notably, ST-2131, which is rarely seen elsewhere, was positive for a sialylated LOS-related gene (
wlaN +neuA + cstIII
) associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. Antibiotic resistance factors predicted from the genome sequence included
blaOXA
variants (58.9%),
tet(O)
(54.5%),
tet(W)
(0.9%),
ant(6)-Ia
(0.9%), mutation in GyrA (T86I, T86I+D90N, T86I+P104S, T86I+D90
N
+P104S) (79.5%), and mutation in 23S rRNA (A2075G) (12.5%). In addition to the high drug resistance of
Campylobacter
in Kolkata,
Campylobacter
pathogens were circulating that may be associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome. This study indicates the importance of genomic analysis in the surveillance of pathogens, which provides genomic information on genetic diversity, virulence mechanisms, and determinants of antimicrobial resistance.
Wolbachia
strain
w
MelM disrupts egg retention by
Aedes aegypti
females prevented from ovipositing
Authors: Ross Perran A. , Yeatman Ella , Berran Mel S. , Gu Xinyue , Hoffmann Ary A. , van Heerwaarden Belinda
Published: December 2024

Aedes aegypti
mosquitoes are well adapted to dry climates and can retain their eggs for extended periods in the absence of suitable habitat.
Wolbachia
strains transferred from other insects to mosquitoes can be released to combat dengue transmission by blocking virus replication and spreading through populations, but host fitness costs imposed by
Wolbachia
, particularly under some environments, can impede spread. We, therefore, assessed the impact of two
Wolbachia
strains being released for dengue control (
w
AlbB and
w
MelM) on fecundity and egg viability following extended egg retention (up to 24 days) under laboratory conditions. Egg viability following retention decreased to a greater extent in females carrying
w
MelM compared to uninfected or
w
AlbB females. Fertility fully recovered in uninfected females following a second blood meal after laying retained eggs, while
w
MelM females experienced only partial recovery. Effects of
w
MelM on egg retention were similar regardless of whether females were crossed to uninfected or
w
MelM males, suggesting that fitness costs were triggered by
Wolbachia
presence in females. The fecundity and hatch proportions of eggs of
w
MelM females declined with age, regardless of whether females used stored sperm or were recently inseminated. Costs of some
Wolbachia
strains during egg retention may affect the invasion and persistence of
Wolbachia
in release sites where larval habitats are scarce and/or intermittent.

IMPORTANCE

Wolbachia
mosquito releases are expanding around the world with substantial impacts on dengue transmission. Releases have succeeded in many locations, but the establishment of
Wolbachia
has been challenging in some environments, and the factors contributing to this outcome remain unresolved. Here, we explore the effects of
Wolbachia
on a novel trait, egg retention, which is likely to be important for the persistence of mosquito populations in locations with intermittent rainfall. We find substantial impacts of the
Wolbachia
strain
w
MelM on the quality of retained eggs but not the
w
AlbB strain. This cost is driven by the
Wolbachia
infection status of the female and can partially recover following a second blood meal. The results of our study may help to explain the difficulty in establishing
Wolbachia
strains at some field release sites and emphasize the need to characterize
Wolbachia
phenotypes across a variety of traits and strains.
The association between oral microbiome and gastric precancerous lesions
Authors: Chen Yifei , Lei Lei , Xia Mengying , Cheng Ran , Cai He , Hu Tao
Published: December 2024

Gastric precancerous lesions are thought to be precursors in the occurrence and development of gastric cancer through Correa's cascade. Recent studies have investigated the association between the oral microbiome and gastric precancerous lesions. However, there has yet to be a comprehensive synthesis review of the existing literature on the relationship between oral microbiome and gastric precancerous lesions. A systematic review was conducted to characterize the literature on the association between oral microbiome and gastric precancerous lesions. The studies show that oral microbiome is dynamic in individuals with gastric precancerous lesions. Oral-derived microorganisms were colonized in the gastric precancerous lesions. Interactions between oral and gastric microbiomes affect the response of the host immunity. The abnormal proliferation of oral-associated microorganisms may be linked to the reduction of gastric acid. The present review supports the potential association between oral microbiome and gastric precancerous lesions. However, the interactions are complex and multifaceted, which require further investigation.
Critical Temperature and Order Parameter in Superconducting Heterostructures with Allowance for a Nonzero Coupling Constant in a Polydomain Ferromagnet
Authors: Tumanov V. A. , Proshin Yu. N.
Published: December 2024

The superconducting state in heterostructures containing layers of a superconductor and a ferromagnet, which is split into domains, has been studied taking into account the long-range electron–electron interaction in the ferromagnetic layer. The critical temperature and spatial distribution of the order parameter in different heterostructures have been calculated. Various types of spin valves have been examined, including a valve based on solitary reentrant superconductivity in asymmetric superconductor/superconductor/superconductor systems. A shift of the minimum has been observed in the dependence of the critical temperature of the superconductor/superconductor/superconductor system on the thickness of the ferromagnetic layer due to the presence of a domain structure. A state with alternating signs of the phase of the superconducting order parameter in one of the superconducting layers against the background of domain walls has been obtained. In superconductor/superconductor/superconductor systems, the alternation of the phase sign is also possible at the edge of one of the ferromagnetic layers because of the alternation of the magnetization direction. The possibility of using the sensitivity of the order parameter phase to magnetic inhomogeneities to create a controllable 0–π Josephson junction is discussed.
Potential research priorities for understanding and treating severe paranoia (persecutory delusions): a priority-setting partnership between patients, carers, mental health staff, and researchers
Authors: Sher David Ariel , Kabir Thomas , Arbuthnott Maurice , Nettleton Suzie , Dixon Pauline , May Joanna , Barrera Alvaro , Brown Poppy , Reeve Sarah , Isham Louise , Waite Felicity , Freeman Daniel
Published: December 2024

Background

A persecutory delusion (severe paranoia) occurs when a person believes that others are trying to harm them when they are not. It is often a central difficulty for patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Objective

The objective is to identify potentially important research questions about severe paranoia.

Methods

A priority-setting partnership exercise was conducted involving people with lived experience, carers, mental health staff, and researchers. An initial survey identified research questions, and a second survey prioritised a refined list of questions. There was a project steering group.

Findings

1480 responses were gathered from 146 people (56 people with lived experience, 23 family members, 78 mental health staff, and 21 researchers). Following refinement, 201 questions were rated by the steering group for priority to enter the second survey. 38 questions were rated in the second survey by 157 people (69 people with lived experience, 33 family members, 59 mental health staff, and 27 researchers). 15 questions were identified as research priorities, each endorsed to a largely similar extent across stakeholder groups. These covered a wide range of topics, including how to support family and carers, understanding the causes of paranoia, managing paranoid thoughts day-to-day, improving access to services, and developing psychological and pharmacological approaches.

Conclusions

There was a good deal of consensus in key questions—covering many aspects of understanding, treatment, and support—to be answered about severe paranoia. Most questions were considered largely equally important.

Clinical implications

Numerous questions were identified that, if addressed, might improve clinical provision for persecutory delusions.
Is a body mass index of less than 18.5 kg/m2associated with an increased susceptibility to mild cognitive impairment? A cross-sectional study conducted in China
Authors: Li Wei , Sun Lin , Yue Ling , Xiao Shifu
Published: December 2024

Objective

Investigating the correlation between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive decline among elderly people in the Chinese community.

Design

A non-random sampling method was employed to conduct a cross-sectional, mixed methods survey among elderly individuals in the Chinese community.

Setting

This research was conducted across the country, focusing on 20 distinct communities (2 rural and 18 urban) situated in the eastern, central and western parts of China.

Participants

The China Longitudinal Aging Study (cohort 1) and Shanghai Brain Aging study (cohort 2) were the sources of the present data. Cohort 1 consisted of 2947 individuals aged 60 and above, who were subjected to a comprehensive screening procedure encompassing a physical examination, medical background and initial evaluations of cognitive abilities through an in-person interview. Cohort 2 comprised an extra 226 older adults, including 54 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 174 normal adults, and unlike cohort 1, all of them underwent T1 phase MRI scans.

Outcome measures

The cognitive abilities, BMI and structural magnetic resonance properties of elderly individuals in the Chinese community.

Results

In cohort 1, we discovered that having a BMI below 18.5 kg/m2posed a significant risk for MCI (p=0.005, OR=2.000, 95% CI: 1.228 to 3.255), regardless of age, gender and other significant variables. Despite this, there was no correlation between dementia and various BMIs. In cohort 2, we found that both left and right hippocampal volumes were significantly smaller in patients with MCI than in normal older adults, and there was a clear mediating effect between the right hippocampus, BMI and cognitive impairment (r=2.182, p=0.030).

Conclusions

BMI below 18.5 kg/m2is associated with an increased likelihood of mild cognitive decline, which may be related to the effect of BMI on the volume of the right hippocampus.
Ecuadorian healthcare professionals’ perspectives on attributes of asthma care coordination: a qualitative study
Authors: Granadillo Emily , Romero-Sandoval Adriana , Cisneros-Caceres Maria Jose , Montalvo-Yepez Jose , Gómez-Urrego Guillermo , Barbosa Carolina , Barreto de Oliveira Ana Luiza , Pinheiro Gabriela Pimentel , Bachmann Max , Cruz Alvaro , Cooper Philip , Ferreira Rejane , Romero-Sandoval Natalia Cristina
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study explored the attributes of asthma care coordination from the perspective of healthcare professionals at different levels of care in Ecuador.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study. The Integrated Health Networks Model was the theoretical framework of reference. Narrative analysis was used to identify significant phrases from the interviews.

Setting

Healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with asthma in primary care, specialists, emergency and management in three Ecuadorian cities between 2019 and 2021.

Participants

25 healthcare professionals participated in semistructured in-depth interviews. Convenience sampling was used.

Results

Participants highlighted the scarce use of institutional documents for the referral of asthma patients from the first level to specialists and vice versa, duplication of tests and medical prescriptions, and lack of appointment availability that limits access to specialised care. From the first level, they considered that specialists do not return patients and specialists stressed that the first level does not have enough training to follow asthma patients. Managers highlighted the system’s inability to assign appointments on time and failures in administrative processes for follow-up. Emergency professionals did not have access to the medical records of patients suffering from asthma attacks.

Conclusions

The lack of shared objectives and effective communication between different levels of care for the follow-up of asthma patients were attributes of asthma care coordination perceived by healthcare professionals at different levels of care in Ecuador. The Ecuadorian health system should consider these to improve its performance.
‘But I have a cat, I have to talk to her now’: a qualitative study on reasons for not participating in guideline-based aphasia therapy from the perspective of patients in German-speaking countries
Authors: May Susann , Mühlensiepen Felix , Plotho Laura , Darkow Robert
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Clinical guidelines recommend high-frequency speech therapy for people with aphasia. Little is known about the experiences of people with aphasia with high-frequency speech therapy, why they do not receive it, what they expect from it and their general wishes and requirements for therapy. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate the reasons for refusing high-frequency speech therapy and therapy preferences of patients with aphasia.

Design

An interview study with people with aphasia.

Setting

Interviewees were recruited via snowball sampling in different settings of healthcare system (eg, speech and language practices, self-help groups, clinics of neurorehabilitation).

Participants

Twenty-one people with aphasia and one relative participated in semi-structured interviews.

Results

We identified five categories of not using high-frequency speech therapy: patient-related factors, health system-related factors, disease-related factors, social-economic factors and organisational factors. Most reasons for non-utilisation are within the domain of the healthcare system and are partly attributable to personnel shortages in care provision and knowledge deficits among healthcare practitioners. Patient therapy preferences notably pertain to the enhancement of speech therapy services, encompassing sessions both inclusive and exclusive of family members as well as the facilitation of information dissemination.

Conclusions

As expected, there were indications of a lack of staff, poor care in rural areas and the influence of being affected by aphasia for a longer period on utilisation behaviour. These factors in the healthcare system and organisational factors are not unknown to those with practical experience, and some of them must and could be changed quickly. This would require a change from the established face-to-face setting in presence to sufficient digital therapy adjuvants. The results of patient-related factors could be a further reason to reflect on speech therapy and its settings and to view and treat people with aphasia in a more holistic, less language-focused way.
Processes and approaches to perioperative pain management in patients undergoing major lower extremity amputations secondary to vascular disease: a multi-specialty modified Delphi consensus study protocol
Authors: Ekkunagul Thanapon , MacLeod Caitlin Sara , Celnik Anna , Chalmers John , Thomson Ross , Nagy John , Forget Patrice
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Pain surrounding major lower extremity amputations (MLEAs) in the vascular surgical patient can be severe, conferring significant debilitation from the preoperative stage through to the chronic rehabilitation phase. Although there is an evolving understanding of the array of existing analgesic medications and modalities, pain management in this context continues to be challenging. A previous report in the UK revealed that MLEA pain management practices may not be optimal from the perspective of patients. There are also limitations in the comprehensiveness and quality of existing evidence, and existing practices can be heterogeneous. Identifying effective pain management approaches in MLEA has thus been recognised as a key practice and research priority. Therefore, the aim of this study protocol will be to elucidate a multi-specialty view on the perceptions, processes and approaches to perioperative pain management in patients undergoing MLEAs secondary to vascular disease in the UK.

Methods and analysis

A modified Delphi methodology will be used to gain consensus among a UK-wide multi-specialty panel of clinical experts. At least three iterative rounds of structured anonymous electronic surveys will be circulated to a minimum cohort of 40 participants across relevant specialties. Expert agreement on pre-developed consensus statements pertaining to the approaches and techniques in MLEA pain management will be sought from the first round and quantified by a 5-point Likert scale. Quantitative and qualitative analyses will be performed to evaluate the level of agreement and participant feedback, respectively. A consensus criterion of ≥75% panellist agreement with a ≤10% between-round stability will be used for each statement. The process will be repeated with the results and implementation of feedback highlighted to panellists in each subsequent round.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was not required for this study as the participants and methodology fall outwith the requirements for a National Health Service Research Ethics Committee review. The results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed publication and presented at relevant conferences.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor rechallenge after immune-related adverse events: a retrospective study from VigiBase update in 2024 looking for emergent safety signals
Authors: L'Orphelin Jean-Matthieu , Da Silva Angélique , Cabon Jean , Alexandre Joachim , Dolladille Charles
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Limited information is available on the safety of a rechallenge with an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) after occurrence of an immune-related adverse event (irAE). We aim to identify potential emergent safety signals.

Design

This is an update of our observational pharmacovigilance cohort study.

Setting

We exanimated individual case safety reports from the WHO database VigiBase.

Participants

We included all individual case safety reports with ICI and rechallenged ICI.

Interventions

We identified that incident irAE cases using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities V.26.1 related with at least one ICI administration were systematically collected until 1 March 2024.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the recurrence rate (expressed as a percentage with its 95% CI) of the initial irAE postrechallenge with the same ICI.

Results

We identified 1016 irAEs cases from ICI rechallenges. Of these, 323 irAEs recurrences occurred (31.8%, 95% CI 28.1 to 34.0). The most common postrechallenge irAEs were nephritis (recurrence rate: 50%, 95% CI 25 to 75), skin irAEs (44%, 95% CI 31 to 58) and colitis (39%, 95% CI 33 to 44).

Conclusions

In this updated, largest cohort study on rechallenge (NCT04696250), we observed a 31.8% recurrence rate of the same irAE postrechallenge with the same ICI, building on our previous findings.

Trial registration number

NCT04696250.
Effect of oral trehalose supplementation on inflammation and wound healing in patients with peri-trochanteric fractures: study protocol for a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Zandi Reza , Tavallaei Zavareh Alireza , Mehrvar Amir , Jowshan Mohammad-Reza , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Nikooyeh Bahareh , Zahedi Hoda , Talebi Shahin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Peri-trochanteric fractures, common among the elderly with osteoporosis, pose significant morbidity and mortality risks. These fractures are increasing due to the ageing population, with Nordic countries seeing a high incidence. They present challenges for orthopaedic surgeons and can lead to functional decline and high medical costs. Hip fractures have severe consequences, including pain, immobility and increased mortality. Managing wound care is complex, involving various healing phases. Trehalose, a disaccharide with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has shown promise in wound healing and other health conditions. Studies suggest its potential benefits in reducing inflammation and aiding wound healing in peri-trochanteric fracture patients, but more research is needed to confirm its clinical effectiveness in humans.

Methods and analysis

The study is a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial aiming to evaluate the effect of trehalose consumption on patients with peri-trochanteric fractures. The study will include 64 patients meeting specific inclusion criteria and will assess inflammatory markers and wound healing at different time points. Patients will be divided into two groups, one receiving trehalose and the other receiving a placebo for 12 weeks. Various measurements and assessments will be conducted, including biochemical assays, wound assessments, anthropometric measurements and dietary intake evaluations. Data analysis will be performed using SPSS software, and statistical tests will be used to compare outcomes between the intervention and control groups.

Ethics and dissemination

The Ethics Committee of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences (IR.SBMU.RETECH.REC.1403.191).

Trial registration number

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials. IRCT20180404039188N5. URL of trial registry record:https://irct.behdasht.gov.ir/trial/77572. Registration date: 7 July 2024.
Co-evolution of glioma and immune microenvironment
Authors: Elguindy Mahmoud M , Young Jacob S , Ho Winson S , Lu Rongze O
Published: December 2024

Glioma evolution is governed by a multitude of dynamic interactions between tumor cells and heterogenous neighboring, non-cancerous cells. This complex ecosystem, termed the tumor microenvironment (TME), includes diverse immune cell types that have gained increasing attention for their critical and paradoxical roles in tumor control and tumorigenesis. Recent work has revealed that the cellular composition and functional state of immune cells in the TME can evolve extensively depending on the tumor stage and intrinsic features of surrounding glioma cells. Concurrently, adaptations to the glioma cellular phenotype, including activation of various cellular states, occur in the context of these immune cell alterations. In this review, we summarize important features of the immune TME that play key roles during each stage of glioma progression, from initiation to immune escape, invasion and recurrence. Understanding the complex interplay between tumor and immune cells is critical for the development of effective immunotherapies for glioma treatment.