bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
House price seasonality, market activity, and the December discount
Authors: Røed Larsen Erling
Published: November 2023

In Norway, house prices tend to drop in December. This regularity is persistent across regions and over time. I exploit a transaction data set with high temporal granularity to document and estimate the size of the December discount. I control for a composition effect using a hedonic model and I control for unobserved heterogeneity by using repeat sales and involving ask prices and appraisal values. By segmenting into submarkets, I search for determinants of price seasonality. The evidence suggests that the December effect is linked to time‐on‐market for each unit and transaction volumes within each submarkets.
Selective utilization of gluco‐oligosaccharides by lactobacilli: A mechanism study revealing the impact of glycosidic linkages and degree of polymerization on their utilization
Authors: Zeng Meijun , Oh Jee‐Hwan , van Pijkeren Jan‐Peter , Pan Xuejun
Published: November 2023

Gluco‐oligosaccharides (GlcOS) are potential prebiotics that positively modulate beneficial gut commensals like lactobacilli. For the rational design of GlcOS as prebiotics or combined with lactobacilli as synbiotics, it is important to establish the structure requirements of GlcOS and specificity toward lactobacilli. Herein, the utilization of 10 GlcOS with varied degrees of polymerization (DP) and glycosidic linkages by 7 lactobacilli strains (Levilactobacillus brevis ATCC 8287, Limosilactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 6475, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103, Lentilactobacillus buchneri ATCC 4005, Limosilactobacillus fermentum FUA 3589, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum WCFS1, and Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323) was studied. L. brevis ATCC 8287 was the only strain that grew on α/β‐(1→4/6) linked disaccharides, whereas other strains showed diverse patterns, dependent on the availability of genes encoding sugar transporters and catabolic enzymes. The effect of DP on GlcOS utilization was strain dependent. β‐(1→4) Linked cello‐oligosaccharides (COS) supported the growth of L. brevis ATCC 8287 and L. plantarum WCFS1, and shorter COS (DP 2–3) were preferentially utilized over longer COS (DP 4–7) (consumption ≥90% vs. 40%–60%). α‐(1→4) Linked maltotriose and maltodextrin (DP 2–11) were effectively utilized by L. brevis ATCC 8287, L. reuteri ATCC 6475, and L. plantarum WCFS1, but not L. fermentum FUA 3589. Growth of L. brevis ATCC 8287 on branched isomalto‐oligosaccharides (DP 2–6) suggested preferential consumption of DP 2–3, but no preference between α‐(1→6) and α‐(1→4) linkages. The knowledge of the structure‐specific GlcOS utilization by different lactobacilli from this study helps the structural rationale of GlcOS for prebiotic development.
A systematic review of the acute effects of alcohol on emotion recognition of facial expressions
Authors: Sanov Bethany N. , Kumar Lakshmi , Creswell Kasey G.
Published: November 2023

Alcohol has been linked to both positive (e.g., sociability) and negative (e.g., aggression) social outcomes, and researchers have proposed that alcohol‐induced changes in emotion recognition may partially explain these effects. Here, we systematically review alcohol administration studies to clarify the acute effects of alcohol on emotion recognition. We also investigate various moderator variables (i.e., sex, study quality, study design, alcohol dosage, emotion recognition task and outcome measure). PsycINFO, PubMed and Google Scholar were searched following a pre‐registered PROSPERO protocol (CRD42021225392) and PRISMA methodology. Analyses focused on differences in emotion recognition between participants consuming alcoholic and/or non‐alcoholic (i.e., placebo or no‐alcohol control) beverages. Nineteen unique samples (N = 1271 participants) were derived from 17 articles (two articles included two studies, each conducted on a unique sample). Data were extracted for sample characteristics, alcohol administration methods and emotion recognition tasks and outcomes. All studies compared an alcoholic beverage to a placebo beverage and used tasks that asked participants to identify emotions from images or videos of facial expressions. Otherwise, methodologies varied substantially across studies, including the alcohol dosage(s) tested, the specific emotion recognition task(s) used and the outcome variable(s) assessed. No consistent effects of alcohol on emotion recognition emerged for any emotion. None of the moderator variables affected the findings, except for some indication that alcohol may affect males' emotion recognition abilities more so than females. Alcohol does not appear to consistently affect positive or negative emotion recognition of facial expressions, at least with the tasks currently used in the field.
A longitudinal study of the relationship between children's exposure to screen media and vocabulary development
Authors: Sundqvist Annette , Barr Rachel , Heimann Mikael , Birberg‐Thornberg Ulrika , Koch Felix‐Sebastian
Published: November 2023

Aim

This study addresses the scarcity of longitudinal research on the influence of screen media on children. It aims to explore the longitudinal relationship between children's vocabulary development and their exposure to screen media.

Methods

The study, initiated in 2017, included 72 children (37 boys) in Östergötland, Sweden, at three key developmental stages: preverbal (9.7 months), early verbal (25.5 months) and preliterate (5.4 years). Parents completed online surveys at each time point, reporting their child's screen time. At 10 months and 2 years, age‐appropriate vocabulary assessments were conducted online. At age 5, children's vocabulary was laboratory assessed.

Results

Correlational analysis revealed a negative relationship between language scores and screen media use across all time points. Furthermore, a cross‐lagged panel model demonstrated that screen media use showed significant continuity over time, with screen use at age 2 predicting language development at ages 2 and 5.

Conclusion

This longitudinal study, spanned from 9 months to 5 years of age, established a predictive negative association between children's exposure to screen media and their vocabulary development. These findings underscore the need to consider the impact of screen media on early childhood development and may inform guidelines for screen media use in young children.
Application of transumbilical single port laparoscopic surgery for adnexal masses in pregnancy
Authors: Jiang Yuhui , Ding Bo , Huang Haiwei , Zhang Chunhua , Shen Yang
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the safety and feasibility of single‐port laparoscopy during pregnancy in short term and long term.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted to investigate the clinical data of 38 pregnant women with adnexal masses who underwent transumbilical single‐port laparoscopic surgery from January 2017 to March 10, 2023.

Results

The mean operation time was 72.7 ± 29.6 (30–160) min. The mean intraoperative blood loss was 30.5 ± 80.4 mL, the mean postoperative first defecation time was 2.5 ± 0.7 days, and the mean total hospital stay was 6.9 ± 1.4 days. None of the patients used analgesic drugs postoperatively. Two patients developed missed abortions within 1 month of surgery, one underwent induction of labor due to a dead fetus at 24 weeks and 5 days of gestation, and the other patients did not develop adverse events after surgery. Mean birth weight was 3322.3 ± 396.3 g. The fetal heart rate was 139 ± 6.4 bpm before operation and 149 ± 2.7 bpm after operation. The APGAR score at 1 and 10 min was 9.2 ± 0.6 points and 9.9 ± 0.2 points, respectively. The mean follow‐up time was 23.9 ± 16.1 (4.7–56) months, 90% (27/30) of the children had moderate developmental quotient, and 10% (3/30) of the children had good developmental quotient, without borderline low developmental quotient or mental retardation.

Conclusion

It is safe, practical, and worthwhile to promote transumbilical single port laparoscopic surgery for pregnancies with adnexal masses in both short and long term.
Effects of livestock grazing intensification on plant communities of Patagonian drylands increase with increasing aridity
Authors: Carboni Lucas J. , Yahdjian Laura , Oñatibia Gastón R.
Published: November 2023

Question

Livestock grazing affects plant communities in drylands worldwide. However, our current understanding of the Patagonian drylands has primarily been derived from comparing exclosures with grazing conditions or from single‐site grazing gradients. The pending question is: do impacts of grazing intensification on Patagonian plant communities change along aridity gradients?

Location

Patagonia, Argentina.

Methods

We surveyed vegetation cover of perennial species in paddocks with different sheep‐grazing pressure (ungrazed, lightly, moderately, and intensively grazed, based on long‐term stocking rates), in three plant communities located along a regional aridity gradient: a semi‐desert (arid), a shrub–grass steppe (semi‐arid), and a grass steppe (dry sub‐humid). In these communities, we analyzed the effects of grazing pressure on the total cover of vegetation, the cover of dominant plant life‐forms (grasses and shrubs), the plant species diversity, and the traits of dominant plant species.

Results

Intensification of sheep grazing significantly decreased total vegetation cover in the semi‐desert, but not in the steppes. Although grazing decreased the cover of grasses (particularly of the highly preferred ones) in all communities, in the shrub–grass and grass steppes this reduction was offset by an increase in the cover and size of shrubs. Plant diversity was not consistently affected by grazing pressure in these communities. Traits of dominant plant species partially explained community responses to grazing intensification.

Conclusions

Livestock grazing intensification reduces the forage quantity and quality of Patagonian plant communities, but the severity depends on plant community types. In semi‐deserts (the most arid), grasses were drastically affected, while in the steppes, the grazing effects on grasses were low and partially compensated by an increase in the cover and size of shrubs, which fulfill critical roles other than forage provision. It is fundamental that grazing pressure be adapted to forage resource availability for each community type to achieve sustainable management in the context of climate change.
A randomised evaluation of low‐dose cytosine arabinoside plus lenalidomide versus single‐agent low‐dose cytosine arabinoside in older patients with acute myeloid leukaemia: Results from the LI‐1 trial
Authors: Copland Mhairi , Ariti Cono , Thomas Ian F. , Upton Laura , Sydenham Mia , Mehta Priyanka , Islam Shahid , Kjeldsen Lars , Burnett Alan K. , Hills Robert K. , Russell Nigel , Dennis Mike ,   the UK NCRI AML Study Group
Published: November 2023

Improving outcomes for older patients with acute myeloid leukaemia remains an unmet need. As part of the LI‐1 trial, we evaluated lenalidomide (LEN) in combination with low‐dose cytosine arabinoside (LDAC) in patients aged >60 years unfit for intensive therapy and compared this to LDAC alone. Two hundred and two patients, randomised 1:1, were evaluable. Overall response rate (CR + CRi) was higher for LDAC + LEN versus LDAC (26% and 13.7% respectively p = 0.031). However, there was no difference in overall survival between the arms (14% and 11.5% at 2 years for LDAC + LEN and LDAC respectively). The addition of LEN was associated with increased toxicity and supportive care requirements.
Impact of color temperature and illuminance of ambient light conditions on the accuracy of complete‐arch digital implant scans
Authors: Ochoa‐López Gastón , Revilla‐León Marta , Gómez‐Polo Miguel
Published: November 2023

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to assess the influence of color temperature and illuminance of ambient light on the accuracy of different intraoral scanners (IOSs) in complete‐arch implant scans.

Methods

An edentulous model with six implants and scan bodies was digitized by using a laboratory scanner (DW‐7‐140; Dental Wings) to obtain a reference mesh. Fifteen scans were performed employing two intraoral scanners (Trios 4;3Shape A/S and i700; Medit Co) at two illuminances (500 and 1000 lux) and three color temperatures (3200, 4400, and 5600 K). Scanning accuracy was measured by using a 3D metrology software program (Geomagic Control X). Kruskal–Wallis, one‐way ANOVA, and pairwise comparison tests were used to analyze the data (α = .05).

Results

Significant differences in trueness and precision values were found among the different IOSs under the same ambient lighting condition and among the different lighting conditions for a given IOS (p < .05) except for trueness in i700 groups (p > .05).

Conclusions

The influence on the accuracy of color temperature and illuminance varied depending on the intraoral scanner. An optimal ambient scanning light condition was not found; this should be adjusted based on the specific IOS system used. 3200 K of ambient light influences the precision of i700 when performed at 1000 lux, decreasing the accuracy. The variation of color temperature at the same illuminance does not affect the scanning accuracy of TRIOS 4, which obtained better accuracy in all scans at 1000 lux.
Sensitisation to ethylhexyl salicylate: Another piece of the frontal fibrosing alopecia puzzle
Authors: Pastor‐Nieto María Antonia , Gatica‐Ortega María Elena , Borrego Leopoldo
Published: November 2023

Background

There is speculation that some environmental factors may be impacting the increasing incidence of frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA). In a recent publication, sensitisation to benzyl salicylate was shown to be prevalent among 36 patients with FFA. Ethylhexyl salicylate (EHS), a light stabiliser, ultraviolet (UV) B absorber and UV filter, frequently found in photoprotectors/cosmetics and, rarely reported as a sensitiser, was not patch tested in said research.

Methods

From January 2021 to February 2022, 33 patients with FFA were patch‐tested with the European Photopatch Series, including EHS 10% pet. in two hospitals. In addition, we conducted a literature review and a market survey.

Results

Patch test reactions to EHS were identified in 9 of 33 (27.3%). Four of nine also reacted to their personal sunscreens (containing EHS). All involved women with a mean age of 54 (30–65). Five patients had been diagnosed with FFA before the patch tests; and, four were diagnosed with FFA during the patch test investigations.

Conclusion

Sensitisation to EHS was frequently found in a selected population of patients with FFA. We propose to expand the spectrum of contact allergens described in patients with FFA to include EHS and discuss the possible need for optimization of the patch test preparation.
Decisive conservation action in areas beyond national jurisdiction is urgently required for seabird recovery in the face of global change
Authors: Gee Moses F. , Kenup Caio F. , Debski Igor , Macdonald Alexandra , Taylor Graeme A. , Clarke Rohan H. , Canessa Stefano , Ewen John G. , Fischer Johannes H.
Published: November 2023

Areas beyond national jurisdiction, or the high seas, are vital to life on Earth. However, the conservation of these areas, for example, through area‐based management tools (ABMTs), is challenging, particularly when accounting for global change. Using decision science, integrated population models, and a Critically Endangered seabird (Kuaka; Pelecanoides whenuahouensis) as a case study, we evaluated potential ABMTs in the high seas under global change and different governance structures, while accounting for uncertainty and imperfect compliance. Our study highlighted that global change in these areas will likely cause population declines of ∼60% by 2050. However, decisive conservation action could cost‐effectively address predicted declines, particularly when implemented as soon as possible and under the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty. We illustrate how decision science can transparently navigate a complex seascape of management decisions and we advocate for its wider integration in the management of the largest sections of our planet, the high seas.
New technique of guidewire exchange for transanal decompression tube placement
Authors: Matsumoto Keita , Sekine Masanari , Mashima Hirosato
Published: November 2023

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Regulation of progenitor cell survival by a novel chromatin remodeling factor during neural tube development
Authors: Sasai Noriaki , Tada Shogo , Ohshiro Jumi , Kogiso Chikara , Shinozuka Takuma
Published: November 2023

During development, progenitor cell survival is essential for proper tissue functions, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here we show that ERCC6L2, a member of the Snf2 family of helicase‐like proteins, plays an essential role in the survival of developing chick neural cells. ERCC6L2 expression is induced by the Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling molecule by a mechanism similar to that of the known Shh target genes Ptch1 and Gli1. ERCC6L2 blocks programmed cell death induced by Shh inhibition and this inhibition is independent of neural tube patterning. ERCC6L2 knockdown by siRNA resulted in the aberrant appearance of apoptotic cells. Furthermore, ERCC6L2 cooperates with the Shh signal and plays an essential role in the induction of the anti‐apoptotic factor Bcl‐2. Taken together, ERCC6L2 acts as a key factor in ensuring the survival of neural progenitor cells.
Bacteria associated with carminic acid metabolism in the intestinal tract of three predators of Dactylopius opuntiae
Authors: Martínez‐Martínez Susana , Rodríguez‐Leyva Esteban , Aranda‐Ocampo Sergio , Santillán‐Galicia Ma. Teresa , Hernández‐López Antonio , Guzmán‐Franco Ariel W.
Published: November 2023

Dactylopius spp. produce carminic acid as part of defence against predation. The average carminic acid concentration varies depending on the species, e.g., for prickly pear cochineal, Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell), and cochineal, Dactylopius coccus Costa (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae), it is 3–5 and 19–25%, respectively. Generalist predators such as Laetilia coccidivora Comstock (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and specialist predators such as Leucopis bellula Williston (Diptera: Chamaemyiidae) and Hyperaspis trifurcata Schaeffer (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) require detoxification mechanisms, which could be provided by gut bacteria. We determined the diversity of gut‐associated cultivable bacteria in these three predators and their ability to metabolize carminic acid. The bacteria were identified morphologically and by partial sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. In vitro assays were done to determine their ability to metabolize carminic acid. The greatest culturable bacterial diversity was found in L. coccidivora larvae and H. trifurcata adults, followed by H. trifurcata larvae. The lowest diversity was found in L. bellula larvae. DNA sequencing revealed the presence of Bacillus cereus Frankland & Frankland, Enterococcus gallinarum (Bridge & Sneath) Collins et al., and Enterococcus casseliflavus Collins et al. in L. coccidivora larvae, Enterobacter spec. in larvae of H. trifurcata, Lactococcus lactis (Lister) Schleifer in adults of H. trifurcata, and Staphylococcus spec. in larvae and adults of H. trifurcata. Bacillus pumilus Meyer & Gottheil was only found in L. bellula larvae. In vitro assays showed that all isolates evaluated could metabolize carminic acid, suggesting they play an important role in the predators' ability to metabolize carminic acid. Presence of E. gallinarum, which had the most efficient metabolism of carminic acid, might allow L. coccidivora to feed on the two Dactylopius species regardless of carminic acid concentration.
First report of Phytophthora macrochlamydospora associated with tree decline in Pinus taeda in Brazil
Authors: Brumat Ana Carolina Lyra , Auer Celso Garcia , Tessmann Dauri José , Duarte Henrique da Silva Silveira , dos Santos Álvaro Figueredo
Published: November 2023

In 2019, 18‐year‐old Pinus taeda trees with symptoms of chlorosis in the aerial part, shortening of needles and reduced plant growth, ultimately leading to tree decline, were found in plantations in southern Brazil. When collecting roots, a reduction in the volume of fine roots in trees and absence of ectomycorrhiza was observed. An oomycete was isolated from the roots and soil of the rhizosphere, and its pathogenicity was confirmed through Koch's postulates. The morphological characteristics of this oomycete were similar to the Phytophthora macrochlamydospora, which was confirmed by the molecular characterization from three gene regions (ITS‐rDNA, COX I and TEF1α). This is the first report of P. macrochlamydospora associated with tree decline in P. taeda in Brazil and worldwide.
Synergy between vegetation patterns and sedimentation has a temporal effect on water erosion in a slope‐gully system
Authors: Bai Lulu , Shi Peng , Wang Wen , Li Zhanbin , Li Peng , Niu Hongbo , Zu Pengju , Cao Manhong , Jia Yili
Published: November 2023

Multiple soil and water conservation measures applied together perform better at reducing runoff and sedimentation than individual measures, which can be attributed to their synergistic effects on water erosion. However, whether these synergistic effects are always effective at reducing water erosion remains unclear. In this study, a series of physical models representing a slope‐gully system were tested to quantify the trend of synergistic effects of multi‐measure over time through simulated rainfall. The tested scenarios included four vegetation patterns on the slope—Pattern A: no grass, Pattern B: grass on the up‐slope, Pattern C: grass on the middle‐slope and Pattern D: grass on the down‐slope—and five levels of runoff path length decrease (RPLD) in the gully caused by sedimentation of a check dam (0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 m). Synergistic effects on runoff and sediment yields were influenced by vegetation patterns and RPLDs. Under the same vegetation patterns, synergistic effects increased with increase of RPLD. Under the same RPLD, the mean value of synergistic effects on runoff was in the following order: Pattern D (0.10%) > Pattern C (0.09%) > Pattern B (0.06%), and synergistic effects on sediment yields had a similar order: Pattern D (0.60%) > Pattern C (0.42%) > Pattern B (0.22%). Under Pattern B, based on the Mann–Kendall trend test, the synergistic effects on the runoff yields decreased over time. Contrastingly, under Patterns C and D, the synergistic effects on the runoff yields increased over time. The results show that the synergistic effect has time effect, and its change trend is related to vegetation patterns. Additionally, the results suggest that the middle‐ and lower‐slopes should be prioritized when restoring vegetation as the synergistic effects on runoff tend to increase when these have good vegetation cover.
Long‐term physical and psychiatric morbidities and mortality of untreated, deferred, and immediately treated epilepsy
Authors: Ren Tianrui , Li Yingtong , Burgess Michael , Sharma Sameer , Rychkova Maria , Dunne John , Lee Judy , Laloyaux Cédric , Lawn Nicholas , Kwan Patrick , Chen Zhibin
Published: November 2023

Objective

In Australia, 30% of newly diagnosed epilepsy patients were not immediately treated at diagnosis. We explored health outcomes between patients receiving immediate, deferred, or no treatment, and compared them to the general population.

Methods

Adults with newly diagnosed epilepsy in Western Australia between 1999 and 2016 were linked with statewide health care data collections. Health care utilization, comorbidity, and mortality at up to 10 years postdiagnosis were compared between patients receiving immediate, deferred, and no treatment, as well as with age‐ and sex‐matched population controls.

Results

Of 603 epilepsy patients (61% male, median age = 40 years) were included, 422 (70%) were treated immediately at diagnosis, 110 (18%) received deferred treatment, and 71 (12%) were untreated at the end of follow‐up (median = 6.8 years). Immediately treated patients had a higher 10‐year rate of all‐cause admissions or emergency department presentations than the untreated (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 2.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–2.9) and deferred treatment groups (IRR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.0–2.8). They had similar 10‐year risks of mortality and developing new physical and psychiatric comorbidities compared with the deferred and untreated groups. Compared to population controls, epilepsy patients had higher 10‐year mortality (hazard ratio = 2.6, 95% CI = 2.1–3.3), hospital admissions (IRR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.6–3.3), and psychiatric outpatient visits (IRR = 3.2, 95% CI = 1.6–6.3). Patients with epilepsy were also 2.5 (95% CI = 2.1–3.1) and 3.9 (95% CI = 2.6–5.8) times more likely to develop a new physical and psychiatric comorbidity, respectively.

Significance

Newly diagnosed epilepsy patients with deferred or no treatment did not have worse outcomes than those immediately treated. Instead, immediately treated patients had greater health care utilization, likely reflecting more severe underlying epilepsy etiology. Our findings emphasize the importance of individualizing epilepsy treatment and recognition and management of the significant comorbidities, particularly psychiatric, that ensue following a diagnosis of epilepsy.
Phenotypic adaptation to temperature in the mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Dennington Nina L. , Grossman Marissa K. , Ware‐Gilmore Fhallon , Teeple Janet L. , Johnson Leah R. , Shocket Marta S. , McGraw Elizabeth A. , Thomas Matthew B.
Published: November 2023

Most models exploring the effects of climate change on mosquito‐borne disease ignore thermal adaptation. However, if local adaptation leads to changes in mosquito thermal responses, “one size fits all” models could fail to capture current variation between populations and future adaptive responses to changes in temperature. Here, we assess phenotypic adaptation to temperature in Aedes aegypti, the primary vector of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses. First, to explore whether there is any difference in existing thermal response of mosquitoes between populations, we used a thermal knockdown assay to examine five populations of Ae. aegypti collected from climatically diverse locations in Mexico, together with a long‐standing laboratory strain. We identified significant phenotypic variation in thermal tolerance between populations. Next, to explore whether such variation can be generated by differences in temperature, we conducted an experimental passage study by establishing six replicate lines from a single field‐derived population of Ae. aegypti from Mexico, maintaining half at 27°C and the other half at 31°C. After 10 generations, we found a significant difference in mosquito performance, with the lines maintained under elevated temperatures showing greater thermal tolerance. Moreover, these differences in thermal tolerance translated to shifts in the thermal performance curves for multiple life‐history traits, leading to differences in overall fitness. Together, these novel findings provide compelling evidence that Ae. aegypti populations can and do differ in thermal response, suggesting that simplified thermal performance models might be insufficient for predicting the effects of climate on vector‐borne disease transmission.
Parameters of nitrogen use efficiency of Kentucky bluegrass cultivars at different N levels under deficit irrigation
Authors: Zhu Huisen , Guo Peng , Li Deying
Published: November 2023

Increasing N use efficiency (NUE) is desirable in turfgrass management. Traditional definition of NUE in turfgrass is essentially the inverse of nitrogen concentration in the clippings and is often evaluated once in a growing season. In this experiment, we followed the Brenderse and Aerts' definition of NUE as the product of mean residence time (MRT) and nitrogen productivity (NP). The objective of this experiment was to identify NP changes over time in Kentucky bluegrass cultivars at different N levels under deficit irrigation. Nine Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) and two hybrid bluegrass cultivars from 10 phenotypic classes were tested under N rates of 10 and 40 g m−2. Deficit irrigation at 60% of the evapotranspiration was imposed. The results showed interaction effects on NP from N level, irrigation, and cultivar. Low‐N treatment resulted in higher NP values as compared to high‐N for ‘Merit’ and ‘Martha’. No NP difference existed between N or irrigation levels for ‘Blue ghost’, ‘Geronimo’, ‘Heidi’, ‘Bandera’, ‘Impact’, ‘Fielder’, ‘Jackrabbit’, and ‘Park’. ‘Rhythm’ showed lower NP values in high‐N combined with full irrigation compared to other treatments. In general, increasing N levels resulted in lower NP, but higher nitrate reductase activity (NaR) and higher net photosynthesis. No N by irrigation interaction effect was detected for effective quantum yield or NaR. In conclusion, leaf‐level NP was shown to be an effective parameter for in‐season monitoring of the above‐ground NUE of Kentucky bluegrass, which provided more dynamic information than clipping yields or a one‐time NUE calculation based on traditional definition.
Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) multiplex activity assay differentiation of type 1 von Willebrand Disease (VWD) and variant VWD
Authors: Roberts Jonathan C. , Christopherson Pamela A. , Tarantino Michael D. , Gonzales Sarah E. , Morateck Patti A. , Perry Crystal L. , Flood Veronica H. , Abshire Thomas C. , Montgomery Robert R. ,   the Zimmerman Program Investigators
Published: November 2023

Introduction

VWD diagnosis is challenging requiring multiple VWF activity tests using many individual assays. We have developed an ELISA‐based VWF Multiplex Activity Assay (VWF‐MAA) to address this concern; however, the ability of the VWF‐MAA to discriminate between type 1 VWD, variant VWD, and normal subjects has not been evaluated.

Aim

To evaluate the VWF‐MAA and its ability to differentiate between type 1 VWD, variant VWD and normal subjects in individuals undergoing an initial laboratory evaluation for bleeding.

Methods

A total of 177 plasma samples from the Zimmerman Program: Comparative Effectiveness in the Diagnosis of VWD were evaluated from 11 centres across the US and Canada. The VWF‐MAA was compared to Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) and Local Center (LC) assigned VWD diagnosis.

Results

Overall, 129/177 (72.9%) were correctly assigned as normal (non‐VWD), type 1, or variant VWD compared to the VBRI assigned diagnosis. VWF‐MAA assigned non‐VWD accurately in 29/57 (50.9%) samples, and type 1 VWD accurately in 93/110 (84.6%) samples. Considering LC diagnosis where there was agreement with VWF‐MAA and not VBRI diagnosis, type 1 VWD was accurate in 105/110 (95.5%) samples. Bland‐Altman analysis demonstrated good correlation between laboratory methods. VWD, types 2A, 2B, 1C VWD were also assigned by the VWF‐MAA.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that the VWF‐MAA has utility in differentiating type 1 VWD, variant VWD and normal subjects in individuals undergoing an initial laboratory evaluation for bleeding.
Long‐term maintenance treatment of rosacea: experts' opinion
Authors: Almeida Luiz M. C. , Ianhez Mayra , Dal'Forno Taciana , Picosse Fabíola R. , Ravelli Flávia , Kamamoto Christhine , Sarlos Priscilla , Gold Linda F. S.
Published: November 2023

Background

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis characterized by remissions and flares. Although the rosacea active treatment phase is well established, the long‐term maintenance phase is still challenging.

Objective

To discuss and make recommendations on how to treat patients during the long‐term maintenance phase for the main rosacea phenotypes.

Methods

A panel of six board‐certified Brazilian dermatologists and one American dermatologist gathered to compose a consensus based upon an initial statement on how to treat rosacea during the long‐term maintenance phase based on the methodology Nominal Group Technique. The experts discussed each factor based upon an initial statement on how to treat rosacea patients in the long‐term maintenance phase. A sequence of comprehensive narrative reviews was performed; a questionnaire preparation about the definition of the maintenance phase and its management was presented; an interpersonal discussion and ranking of the ideas were conducted. Recommendations were made if the specialists had 75% agreement.

Results

The maintenance treatment phase, which starts by achieving IGA 0 or 1 grades at the active phase, should be considered at least during the 9‐month period after remission. The recommendations of all treatments target this period. Daily skincare regimen and sunscreen are crucial. Active treatment phase should be recommended if signs or symptoms reappear or worsen.

Conclusion

Maintenance phase success depends on patient's adherence to daily skin care, appropriate treatments, continued follow‐up with dermatologist, and self‐assessment to identify new signs and symptoms indicating disease relapse.
ANZTCT consensus position statement on ruxolitinib in steroid‐refractory acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Hamad Nada , Bilmon Ian , Chee Lynette , Henden Andrea , Johnston Anna , Purtill Duncan , Bajel Ashish , Tey Siok‐Keen , Yeung David , Cole Theresa , Lewis Clinton , Butler Jason
Published: November 2023

This position paper provides an overview of the assessment and management of both acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (GvHD). There is a focus on the use of ruxolitinib, a selective inhibitor of Janus kinase (JAK)1 and JAK2, for the treatment of corticosteroid‐refractory and corticosteroid‐dependent GvHD.
Association between malnutrition and surgical site and periprosthetic joint infections following joint arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Chenbin , Lv Shuhan
Published: November 2023

Post‐joint arthroplasty infections, especially surgical site infections (SSI) and periprosthetic joint infections (PJI), significantly impact patient outcomes. The potential influence of malnutrition on these postoperative complications remains a crucial concern for clinicians. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis using four databases up to 19 July 2023. We sought studies on joint replacements, focusing on malnutrition as an SSI risk factor. The malnutrition criteria were defined by specific laboratory parameters. Two independent reviewers undertook data extraction and quality assessment, with discrepancies resolved through consensus or third‐party review. Studies were evaluated for methodological quality using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale (NOS). For statistical analyses, heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, and both fixed and random‐effects models were employed based on heterogeneity levels, utilizing Stata software (version 17). Significant heterogeneity was present among studies examining the relationship between malnutrition and SSI (I2 = 59.5%, p = 0.03%). Employing the random‐effects model, results indicated that malnourished individuals were approximately 2.63 times more likely to develop SSI post‐operation. Further exploration into the association between malnutrition and PJI, from seven pertinent studies, also revealed an elevated risk (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.79–3.39). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these findings, and publication bias assessments supported the validity of the included studies. Malnutrition robustly correlates with an increased risk of both SSI and PJI following total joint arthroplasty. Emphasizing preoperative nutritional assessments and intervention strategies may offer a promising avenue to enhance patient outcomes and reduce postoperative complications.
Supporting older nurses and midwives in the Australian healthcare workplace—A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Denton Julie , Evans David , Qunyan Xu , Vernon Rachael
Published: November 2023

Aim

To explore support strategies for older nurses and midwives in Australian healthcare workplaces.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Method

Participants were 50 older nurses and midwives and 20 healthcare managers recruited from a broad range of Australian healthcare settings. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews from November 2018 to April 2021. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed.

Results

The limited number of identified sedentary roles and inequitable distribution of workload responsibilities were identified as constraints that impact the provision of workplace support for older nurses and midwives in healthcare settings. Three major themes were identified: Workplace support, Personal support and Doing more. A small number of participants reported support was available at work, but most said there was not. Of the reported strategies some were offered exclusively to a cohort that met an age criterion, while others were open to all staff regardless of age. Personal support strategies were employed outside of the workplace while others used strategies during working hours. Doing more related to suggestions about how organizations could do more to support older nurses and midwives at work.

Conclusion

Support mechanisms like adjustments in workload, employment fraction, practice location, upskilling and wellness programs in workplaces are limited. To facilitate retention and support older nurses and midwives in the workforce, health workplaces should consider implementing support mechanisms that can be tailored to the individual needs of the nurse or midwife over the life course of their career.

Impact

The findings of this study highlight the lack of support for many older nurses and midwives in Australian healthcare workplaces, emphasizing the need for further research into innovative practices on how to better support healthcare staff as they age.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the COREQ reporting method.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Team identification more than organizational identification predicts counterproductive work behavior and organizational citizenship behavior and mediates influences of communication climate and perceived external prestige
Authors: Pugliese Erica , Bonaiuto Marino , Livi Stefano , Theodorou Annalisa , van Knippenberg Daan
Published: November 2023

Organizational identification has been linked to both positive behavior and negative behavior at work. Based on theory and research that suggest that for many organizational behaviors, team identification may be a more important influence than organizational identification, we advance a research model proposing that team identification, more than organizational identification, predicts counterproductive work behavior and organizational citizenship behavior and is the more important mediator of the influence of communication climate (CC) and perceived external prestige (PEP) on these outcomes. This research model was tested in a survey of N = 300 employees of four Italian organizations from different sectors. Results show that team identification, but not organizational identification, predicts counterproductive behavior and citizenship behavior and mediates the influence of CC and PEP. To enhance team identification for sustaining positive voluntary behavior at work, two possible strategies could be considered: improving perceived external prestige and promoting a good communication climate.
Long‐term neurological dysfunction associated with COVID‐19: Lessons from influenza and inflammatory diseases?
Authors: Volk Parker , Rahmani Manesh Mohammadreza , Warren Mary E. , Besko Katie , Gonçalves de Andrade Elisa , Wicki‐Stordeur Leigh E. , Swayne Leigh Anne
Published: November 2023

As the COVID‐19 pandemic persists, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection is increasingly associated with long‐term neurological side effects including cognitive impairment, fatigue, depression, and anxiety, colloquially known as “long‐COVID.” While the full extent of long‐COVID neuropathology across years or even decades is not yet known, we can perhaps take direction from long‐standing research into other respiratory diseases, such as influenza, that can present with similar long‐term neurological consequences. In this review, we highlight commonalities in the neurological impacts of influenza and COVID‐19. We first focus on the common potential mechanisms underlying neurological sequelae of long‐COVID and influenza, namely (1) viral neurotropism and (2) dysregulated peripheral inflammation. The latter, namely heightened peripheral inflammation leading to central nervous system dysfunction, is emerging as a shared mechanism in various peripheral inflammatory or inflammation‐associated diseases and conditions. We then discuss historical and modern examples of influenza‐ and COVID‐19‐associated cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, and fatigue, revealing key similarities in their neurological sequelae. Although we are learning that the effects of influenza and COVID differ somewhat in terms of their influence on the brain, as the impacts of long‐COVID grow, such comparisons will likely prove valuable in guiding ongoing research into long‐COVID, and perhaps foreshadow what could be in store for individuals with COVID‐19 and their brain health.
Looking beyond time alone: An examination of solitary activities in emerging adulthood
Authors: McVarnock Alicia , Coplan Robert J. , White Hope I. , Bowker Julie C.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Solitude represents an important context for emerging adults' well‐being; but to date, little is known about how emerging adults spend their time alone. The goals of this study were to: (1) describe and characterize solitary activities among emerging adults attending university; (2) examine links between solitary activities and indices of adjustment; and (3) explore the moderating role of affinity for solitude in these associations.

Methods

Participants were N = 1798 university students aged 18–25 years (M
age = 19.73, SD = 1.46; 59.7% female) who completed assessments of how/why they spend time alone and indices of psychosocial adjustment (e.g., well‐being, psychological distress, loneliness, and aloneliness).

Results

Emerging adults who spent time alone predominantly thinking reported poor adjustment outcomes (i.e., higher loneliness and psychological distress, and lower well‐being) and dissatisfaction with solitude, whereas those who engaged in active leisure activities or passive technology use while alone reported lower psychological distress and higher satisfaction with solitude. The negative implications of doing nothing were not attenuated at higher levels of affinity for solitude.

Discussion

These findings suggest that some solitary activities are more beneficial than others.
Who makes a more consistent first impression? Examining the structure and correlates of dissensus
Authors: Long Elizabeth U. , Carlson Erika N. , Pringle Victoria , Elsaadawy Norhan , Fournier Marc A. , Connelly Brian S.
Published: November 2023

Objective and Background

How do targets shape consensus in impression formation? Targets are known to play an outsized role in the accuracy of first impressions, but their influence on consensus has been difficult to study. With the help of the recently developed extended Social Relations Model, we explore the structure and correlates of individual differences in consensus (i.e., dissensus).

Method

Across 3 studies, 187 photographs of targets were rated by 960 perceivers on personality and evaluative traits, as well as being coded for physical cues by trained coders. We explored the within‐target consistency of consensus across traits, as well as its relationship to four categories of theoretically relevant correlates: expressiveness, normativity, positivity, and social categories.

Results

The tendency to make a consistent impression on others was broadly consistent across traits. High‐consensus targets tended to be more expressive, had more normative physical cues, and were viewed more positively.

Conclusions

At least in a first impression context, targets may play a unique role in predicting the consensus of personality judgments by providing perceivers with more information to work with, and making a negative impression on others may carry social costs.
Effects of dietary wheat supplementation levels on growth performance, rumen bacterial community and fermentation parameters in Chinese Tibetan Sheep
Authors: Gao Zhanhong , Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Ma Boyan , Zhang Fengshuo , Wang Zhiyou , Hou Shengzhen , Almohaimeed Hailah M. , Alhelaify Seham Sater , Alzahrani Seham Saeed , Alharthy Ohud Muslat , Gui Linsheng
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate various wheat supplementation levels on rumen microbiota and fermentation parameter in Tibetan sheep. A total of ninety ram with an average 12.37 ± 0.92 kg at the age of 2 months were randomly allocated to three treatments: 0% wheat diet (CW, N = 30), 10% wheat diet (LW, N = 30), and 15% wheat diet (HW, N = 30) on a dry matter basis. The experiment was conducted over a period of 127 days, including 7 days of adaption to the diets. Our results showed that sheep fed 10% wheat exhibited optimal average daily gain and feed gain ratio compared with HW group (p < 0.05). The serum alkaline phosphatase concentration was the lowest when fed the 10% wheat diet (p < 0.05), whereas serum aspartate aminotransferase concentration was the highest (p < 0.05). Both acetate and propionate increased with increase in dietary wheat ratio (p < 0.05), while a greater decrease in concentrations of NH3‐N was observed (p < 0.05). In rumen fluid, 3413 OTUs were obtained with 97% consistency. Phylum Firmicutes was the predominant bacteria and accounted for 49.04%. The CW groups supported significantly increased the abundance of Bacteroidetes (p < 0.05), as compared with the HW group. The abundance of Bacteroidales_UCG‐001, Ruminococcus, and Mitsuokella possessed a higher relative abundance in HW group (p < 0.05). No differences in the bacterial community and fermentation parameters were observed between the sheep fed 0% and 10% wheat (p > 0.05). Ruminal bacterial community structure was significantly correlated with isobutyrite (r2 = 0.4878, p = 0.035) and valerate (r2 = 0.4878, p = 0.013). In conclusion, supplementation of 10% wheat in diet promoted the average daily gain and never altered microbial community structure and fermentation pattern, which can be effectively replace partial corn in Chinese Tibetan Sheep.
Chloroplast genomes and ribosomal DNA provide insights into divergence and morphological evolution of alpine Tongoloa
Authors: Gui Ling‐Jian , Xie Deng‐Feng , Peng Chang , Ren Ting , Yu Li‐Ying , Zhou Song‐Dong , He Xing‐Jin
Published: November 2023

Tongoloa is a herbaceous genus of East Asia Clade (Apiaceae) distributed in the alpine regions. The use of DNA fragments has not provided a well‐resolved evolutionary history. For this research, we primarily collected samples from the type localities of Tongoloa and closely related taxa in the Hengduan Mountains. The chloroplast (cp) genomes and nuclear ribosomal (nr) DNA repeats of 27 taxa were assembled using genome skimming sequencing reads. We analyzed the characteristics of the Tongoloa cp genome, and found a remarkable expansion of the Inverted Repeats. Three genes (ndhC, ndhJ, and petG) related to photosynthesis appear to have undergone significant selective pressure. Through high‐resolution phylogenetic analysis, the cpDNA provided compelling evidence supporting the inclusion of Sinolimprichtia as an early taxon within Tongoloa. However, the nrDNA suggested that Tongoloa and Sinolimprichtia belong to distinct branches. Morphological analysis showed that Tongoloa has broadly oval fruits with a cordate base, whereas the fruits of Sinolimprichtia are long‐obovate with an obtuse base. The specific fruit morphology of Sinolimprichtia was found to be nested within Tongoloa in the cpDNA phylogenetic tree. Ancient introgression and chloroplast capture provide the most plausible explanation for the significant conflict between the nrDNA and cpDNA phylogenies. Our study highlights the potential impact of the complex evolutionary history of Tongoloa on the challenges encountered in previous taxonomic treatments.