bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In-service training for improving the implementation of competency-based curriculum in English foreign language teaching: is planning effective?
Authors: Msamba Enitha M. , Msuya Erasmus A. , Anangisye William A.L.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

In Tanzania, in-service training was implemented to facilitate teachers understanding and implementation of the competency-based curriculum in the English language. This study aims to evaluate whether or not the in-service training was effectively planned to achieve its goals.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a narrative research design that focuses on analysing the story of a particular event, object or programme as it occurred in a specific social context. Thirty-two purposefully selected respondents were interviewed, and data were analysed using the thematic approach.

Findings

The study found strengths and weaknesses in the in-service training planning process. The strength included coherence between the need for in-service training and country priority. Moreover, collective participation was promoted since all trainees were English language teachers. Perceived weaknesses included a lack of coherence between training objectives and teachers’ actual needs. Equally, collective participation was limited because trainees taught mixed grades with varied work environments and experiences. Besides, heads of schools were not involved in training planning. Even those tasked with a lead role in cascading training to untrained teachers lacked the confidence and competence to do so.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the body of knowledge by uncovering weaknesses associated with in-service planning in Tanzania. The study calls upon the future planners of in-service training to consider the elements of effective in-service training during the planning and ensure that the views of all stakeholders at the macro and micro levels are assessed for quality programme implementation and better results.
Senior tourism: travel motivators and perceived constraints and risks for the elderly
Authors: Aggarwal Arun , Hajra Vandita , Kukreja Vinay
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To cater to the senior tourist market, it is essential to comprehend the factors motivating and deterring them from international travel post-COVID-19. This study aims to focus on senior citizens’ destination choice intentions and aims to develop a model that prioritizes positive and negative factors leading to international travel destination choices. It uses push–pull factors, perceived travel risks (PTRs) and perceived travel constraints (PTCs).

Design/methodology/approach

Decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (Fuzzy TOPSIS) are two multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques used to identify connections between variables and determine their relative importance in the decision-making model.

Findings

DEMATEL found push and pull factors are “effects” while PTCs and PTRs are “causes” affecting senior citizens’ destination choices. Push factors and PTCs have a greater impact than pull factors and PTRs. Fuzzy TOPSIS highlighted “improving health and wellness” and “self-fulfillment and spirituality” as key push factors, “health safety and security quotient” as the most important pull factor, and “interpersonal constraints” as the most critical PTC. Finally, “health risks” is the top PTR.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the tourism literature by looking at the relationship between senior tourists’ motivation, PTRs and PTCs and showing how the subfactors affect their choice of destination rank. The data analysis techniques used in this study are also novel, having never been used before in senior tourism research. Finally, even though there is a lot of research on senior tourism, not much is known about how Indian senior tourists act. In light of this study’s findings, practical recommendations were offered to tourism stakeholders worldwide, interested in tapping into the market of Indian outbound senior tourists or repositioning product or destination offerings to take this promising market or similar markets into account.
Optimizing species selection for the structural timbers of traditional farmhouses in a snowy rural area of northeastern Japan
Authors: Ida Hideyuki , Sato Takuma , Rikukawa Yuta , Abe Reina , Hoyano Shigeo , Tsuchimoto Toshikazu
Published: May 2023

Vernacular houses constructed using local woods contain information about forest‐resource use. To clarify how timber was used to construct wooden farmhouses, we identified the timber species composition of 11 houses built between 1845 and about 1940 in Tadami, a snowy rural area in northeastern Japan, and interviewed 70 residents. We recorded 2004 timber parts (99–308 parts per house) and 171.2 m3(1828 parts) of known species (14 taxa).Cryptomeria japonica(cedar) andPinus parvifloravar.pentaphylla(white pine) were used for all essential structural parts and accounted for 44% and 39% of the total timber volume, respectively.Fagus crenata(beech) was the third most commonly used species (7%), for roof supports, beams, and girders. The interviews revealed that the timber was typically sourced from local private or common woodlands within 1 km and that local craftsmen selected and hauled the trees. Considering the region's unique and complex vegetation, as land‐cover distribution is strongly influenced by frequent avalanches, the timber was likely managed within local stands of tall trees, and the most available species would have been cedar (although whether native or planted is unknown), followed by native white pine on mountain ridges around settlements. In comparison, beech stands that could supply sufficient amounts of timber might have been limited. Based on the characteristics of the trees used as house timber in Tadami, we conclude that despite the surrounding harsh, snowy conditions, locally available species of tall trees were historically selected for timbers.
Contribution of genetic analyses to semi‐natural grassland biodiversity conservation in Japan
Authors: Nakahama Naoyuki , Kurata Seikan , Ushimaru Atushi
Published: May 2023

Semi‐natural grasslands maintained by moderate anthropogenic disturbance have been rapidly declining worldwide in recent decades, resulting in the progressive degradation of biodiversity therein. Similarly, in Japan, many semi‐natural grassland organisms are threatened with extinction owing to the decline of semi‐natural grasslands, and their conservation and management has attracted considerable attention. Although ecological studies using genetic information are expected to contribute to the conservation of semi‐natural grassland organisms, no reviews have been conducted on the potential roles of these studies in grassland conservation in Japan. Here, we review the current trends in conservation‐ecological study on Japanese semi‐natural grassland organisms using genetic information by grouping into five categories: (1) monitoring of genetic diversity and spatial genetic structure, (2) exploration of the genetic consequences of management practices, (3) prevention of genetic disturbance, (4) elucidation of natural history traits, and (5) estimation of the origin and demography. Furthermore, the applicability of studies using high‐throughput sequencing, which has been rapidly progressing in recent years, is highlighted. This review provides the methods and perspectives on the use of genetic information to conserve biodiversity in semi‐natural grasslands.
Delayed elimination in humans after ingestion of colchicine: Two fatal cases of colchicine poisoning
Authors: Deng Hongxiao , Xiang Ping , Zhang Sujing , Wu Hejian , Liu Wei , Yan Hui
Published: May 2023

Colchicine has been widely used in the treatment of acute gout over the years, but it has a narrow therapeutic index, and overdose can be life threatening. A method using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry system was applied in two fatal cases of colchicine poisoning in this study to the determination of colchicine in blood. In case 1, a 19‐year‐old man suffered from depression and ingested 160 colchicine tablets (each 0.5 mg). The concentration of colchicine in his blood samples showed a fluctuating trend and kept above the therapeutic steady‐state concentration for 5 days. In case 2, a 70‐year‐old female patient with a history of gout and chronic colchicine intake ingested five times the usual dose of colchicine (5 mg) and died after 12 days of medical care, with 5 ng/mL of colchicine in her blood sample. Our findings suggest that the delayed elimination and accumulation in humans after colchicine overdose could keep the concentration of colchicine maintaining above the therapeutic steady‐state concentration for many days before dying, probably along with a fluctuating trend.
Evaluation of 96‐well high‐throughput DNA extraction methods for 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding
Authors: Chapuis Marie‐Pierre , Benoit Laure , Galan Maxime
Published: May 2023

Gaining meaningful insights into bacterial communities associated with animal hosts requires the provision of high‐quality nucleic acids. Although many studies have compared DNA extraction methods for samples with low bacterial biomass (e.g. water) or specific PCR inhibitors (e.g. plants), DNA extraction bias in samples without inherent technical constraint (e.g. animal samples) has received little attention. Furthermore, there is an urgent need to identify a DNA extraction methods in a high‐throughput format that decreases the cost and time for processing large numbers of samples. We here evaluated five DNA extraction protocols, using silica membrane‐based spin columns and a 96‐well microplate format and based on either mechanical or enzymatic lysis or a combination of both, using three bacterial mock communities and Illumina sequencing of the V4 region of the 16SrRNA gene. Our results showed that none of the DNA extraction methods fully eliminated bias associated with unequal lysis efficiencies. However, we identified a DNA extraction method with a lower bias for each mock community standard. Of these methods, those including an enzymatic lysis showed biases specific to some bacteria. Altogether, these results again demonstrate the importance of DNA extraction standardization to be able to compare the microbiome results of different samples. In this attempt, we advise for the use of the 96‐well DNeasy Blood and Tissue kit (Qiagen) with a zirconia bead‐beating procedure, which optimizes altogether the cost, handling time and bacteria‐specific effects associated with enzymatic lysis.
Comparative genomics reveals the emergence of copper resistance in a non‐pigmented Xanthomonas pathogen of grapevine
Authors: Rana Rekha , Jaiswal Gagandeep , Bansal Kanika , Patil Prabhu B.
Published: May 2023

Xanthomonas citri pv. viticola (Xcv) is the causal agent of bacterial canker in grapevine. The pathogen is restricted to India, where it was first reported in the 1970s, and Brazil. In the present study, we report the first complete genome sequence of Xcv LMG965, which is a reference pathotype strain. We also report genome sequences of additional isolates from India and comparative genome‐based studies of isolates from Brazil. Apart from revealing the monophyletic origin of the pathovar, we could also confirm a common frameshift mutation in a gene that is part of the Xanthomonadin pigment biosynthetic gene cluster in all the isolates. The comparative study also revealed multiple intrinsic copper resistance‐related genes in Brazilian isolates, suggesting intense selection, possibly because of heavy and indiscriminate usage of copper as an antimicrobial agent in the orchards. There is also the association of a Tn3‐like transposase in the vicinity of the copper resistance genes, indicating a potential for rapid diversification through horizontal gene transfer events. The findings, along with genomic resources, will allow for systematic genetic and functional studies of Xcv.
Fatal limbic encephalitis as paraneoplastic neurological syndrome in a patient with lung adenocarcinoma positive for antiamphiphysin antibody after durvalumab treatment
Authors: Iwanaga Yuto , Kawaguchi Takako , Yamasaki Kei , Sato Tomoki , Kubo Naoto , Morimoto Toshiki , Isoshima Yu , Sasahara Yosuke , Orihashi Takeshi , Yatera Kazuhiro
Published: May 2023

A 69‐year‐old Japanese male with advanced lung adenocarcinoma developed neurological symptoms after chemoradiotherapy and durvalumab maintenance therapy. He was positive for serum antiamphiphysin antibody, which is rarely seen in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Additionally, his brain magnetic resonance images showed limbic encephalitis which led to the diagnosis of classic paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (PNS). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) activate T cells and may also activate antineuronal antibodies that cause PNS. Durvalumab, which is an ICI, may have led to antiamphiphysin antibody‐positive PNS in our patient. Treatment with systemic high‐dose methylprednisolone was unsuccessful and he died 2 months later. PNS should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses in patients with lung cancer and neurological symptoms during, or after, ICI treatment.
A review of sources of resistance to turnip yellows virus (TuYV) in Brassica species
Authors: Macleod Kyle , Greer Shannon F. , Bramham Lawrence E. , Pimenta Ricardo J. G. , Nellist Charlotte F. , Hackenburg Dieter , Teakle Graham R. , Barker Guy C. , Walsh John A.
Published: May 2023

Turnip yellows virus (TuYV; previously known as beet western yellows virus) causes major diseases of Brassica species worldwide resulting in severe yield‐losses in arable and vegetable crops. It has also been shown to reduce the quality of vegetables, particularly cabbage where it causes tip burn. Incidences of 100% have been recorded in commercial crops of winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus) and vegetable crops (particularly Brassica oleracea) in Europe. This review summarises the known sources of resistance to TuYV in B. napus (AACC genome), Brassica rapa (AA genome) and B. oleracea (CC genome). It also proposes names for the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) responsible for the resistances, Turnip Yellows virus Resistance (TuYR), that have been mapped to at least the chromosome level in the different Brassica species. There is currently only one known source of resistance deployed commercially (TuYR1). This resistance is said to have originated in B. rapa and was introgressed into the A genome of oilseed rape via hybridisation with B. oleracea to produce allotetraploid (AACC) plants that were then backcrossed into oilseed rape. It has been utilised in the majority of known TuYV‐resistant oilseed rape varieties. This has placed significant selection pressure for resistance‐breaking mutations arising in TuYV. Further QTLs for resistance to TuYV (TuYR2‐TuYR9) have been mapped in the genomes of B. napus, B. rapa and B. oleracea and are described here. QTLs from the latter two species have been introgressed into allotetraploid plants, providing for the first time, combined resistance from both the A and the C genomes for deployment in oilseed rape. Introgression of these new resistances into commercial oilseed rape and vegetable brassicas can be accelerated using the molecular markers that have been developed. The deployment of these resistances should lessen selection pressure for resistance‐breaking isolates of TuYV and thereby prolong the effectiveness of each other and extant resistance.
Molecular and biophysical features of hippocampal “lipid rafts aging” are modified by dietary n‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Díaz Mario , Pereda de Pablo Daniel , Valdés‐Baizabal Catalina , Santos Guido , Marin Raquel
Published: May 2023

“Lipid raft aging” in nerve cells represents an early event in the development of aging‐related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Lipid rafts are key elements in synaptic plasticity, and their modification with aging alters interactions and distribution of signaling molecules, such as glutamate receptors and ion channels involved in memory formation, eventually leading to cognitive decline. In the present study, we have analyzed, in vivo, the effects of dietary supplementation of n‐3 LCPUFA on the lipid structure, membrane microviscosity, domain organization, and partitioning of ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors in hippocampal lipid raffs in female mice. The results revealed several lipid signatures of “lipid rafts aging” in old mice fed control diets, consisting in depletion of n‐3 LCPUFA, membrane unsaturation, along with increased levels of saturates, plasmalogens, and sterol esters, as well as altered lipid relevant indexes. These changes were paralleled by increased microviscosity and changes in the raft/non‐raft (R/NR) distribution of AMPA‐R and mGluR5. Administration of the n‐3 LCPUFA diet caused the partial reversion of fatty acid alterations found in aged mice and returned membrane microviscosity to values found in young animals. Paralleling these findings, lipid rafts accumulated mGluR5, NMDA‐R, and ASIC2, and increased their R/NR proportions, which collectively indicate changes in synaptic plasticity. Unexpectedly, this diet also modified the lipidome and dimension of lipid rafts, as well as the domain redistribution of glutamate receptors and acid‐sensing ion channels involved in hippocampal synaptic plasticity, likely modulating functionality of lipid rafts in memory formation and reluctance to age‐associated cognitive decline.
Leveraging complexity frameworks to refine theories of engagement: Advancing self‐regulated learning in the age of artificial intelligence
Authors: Hilpert Jonathan C. , Greene Jeffrey A. , Bernacki Matthew
Published: May 2023

Capturing evidence for dynamic changes in self‐regulated learning (SRL) behaviours resulting from interventions is challenging for researchers. In the current study, we identified students who were likely to do poorly in a biology course and those who were likely to do well. Then, we randomly assigned a portion of the students predicted to perform poorly to a science of learning to learn intervention where they were taught SRL study strategies. Learning outcome and log data (257 K events) were collected from n = 226 students. We used a complex systems framework to model the differences in SRL including the amount, interrelatedness, density and regularity of engagement captured in digital trace data (ie, logs). Differences were compared between students who were predicted to (1) perform poorly (control, n = 48), (2) perform poorly and received intervention (treatment, n = 95) and (3) perform well (not flagged, n = 83). Results indicated that the regularity of students' engagement was predictive of course grade, and that the intervention group exhibited increased regularity in engagement over the control group immediately after the intervention and maintained that increase over the course of the semester. We discuss the implications of these findings in relation to the future of artificial intelligence and potential uses for monitoring student learning in online environments.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Self‐regulated learning (SRL) knowledge and skills are strong predictors of postsecondary STEM student success.

SRL is a dynamic, temporal process that leads to purposeful student engagement.

Methods and metrics for measuring dynamic SRL behaviours in learning contexts are needed.

What this paper adds

A Markov process for measuring dynamic SRL processes using log data.

Evidence that dynamic, interaction‐dominant aspects of SRL predict student achievement.

Evidence that SRL processes can be meaningfully impacted through educational intervention.

Implications for theory and practice

Complexity approaches inform theory and measurement of dynamic SRL processes.

Static representations of dynamic SRL processes are promising learning analytics metrics.

Engineered features of LMS usage are valuable contributions to AI models.
Leadership, mobilization of risky behaviours and accountability: The Church of Greece leaders' public talk during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ntontis Evangelos , Bozatzis Nikos , Kokkini Vasiliki
Published: May 2023

Social psychologists have typically examined leadership and risk‐taking behaviours through a social identity lens. However, the rhetorical/ideological aspects of such processes as well as leaders' accountability management practices have not been adequately studied. We address this gap by focusing on leaders of the Church of Greece (CoG), who, at the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic, insisted that their congregation should keep receiving the Holy Communion, which typically involves the practice of spoon‐sharing. We present a discursive analysis of 17 interviews with leaders of the CoG given in Greek media channels, exploring how they construct participation in the ritual. When Church leaders urged their audiences to engage in risky practices, they assumed various social identity positions (e.g. scientifically informed; civic minded), implicating competing ideological frameworks. They also managed their personal and institutional accountability for potential viral transmissions by placing responsibility for adverse effects on their followers. Implications for social psychological theory are discussed.
Pharmacological inhibition of TRPV2 attenuates phagocytosis and lipopolysaccharide‐induced migration of primary macrophages
Authors: Raudszus Rick , Paulig Andrea , Urban Nicole , Deckers Anke , Gräßle Simone , Vanderheiden Sylvia , Jung Nicole , Bräse Stefan , Schaefer Michael , Hill Kerstin
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

In macrophages, transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (TRPV2) channel contributes to various cellular processes such as cytokine production, differentiation, phagocytosis and migration. Due to a lack of selective pharmacological tools, its function in immunological processes is not well understood and the identification of novel and selective TRPV2 modulators is highly desirable.

Experimental Approach

Novel and selective TRPV2 modulators were identified by screening a compound library using Ca2+ influx assays with human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells heterologously expressing rat TRPV2. Hits were further characterized and validated with Ca2+ influx and electrophysiological assays. Phagocytosis and migration of macrophages were analysed and the contribution of TRPV2 to the generation of Ca2+ microdomains was studied by total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (TIRFM).

Key Results

The compound IV2‐1, a dithiolane derivative (1,3‐dithiolan‐2‐ylidene)‐4‐methyl‐5‐phenylpentan‐2‐one), is a potent inhibitor of heterologously expressed TRPV2 channels (IC50 = 6.3 ± 0.7 μM) but does not modify TRPV1, TRPV3 or TRPV4 channels. IV2‐1 also inhibits TRPV2‐mediated Ca2+ influx in macrophages. IV2‐1 inhibits macrophage phagocytosis along with valdecoxib and after siRNA‐mediated knockdown. Moreover, TRPV2 inhibition inhibits lipopolysaccharide‐induced migration of macrophages whereas TRPV2 activation promotes migration. After activation, TRPV2 shapes Ca2+ microdomains predominantly at the margin of macrophages, which are important cellular regions to promote phagocytosis and migration.

Conclusions and Implications

IV2‐1 is a novel TRPV2‐selective blocker and underline the role of TRPV2 in macrophage‐mediated phagocytosis and migration. Furthermore, we provide evidence that TRPV2 activation generates Ca2+ microdomains, which may be involved in phagocytosis and migration of macrophages.
Frugivory and seed dispersal in the Cerrado: Network structure and defaunation effects
Authors: Béllo Carvalho Rodrigo , Malhi Yadvinder , Oliveras Menor Imma
Published: May 2023

Seed dispersal is a fundamental process that is highly threatened by the rapid decline of large‐bodied frugivores worldwide. The Brazilian Cerrado, the largest savanna in the world, represents an ideal site for investigating seed dispersal because of its biodiversity, environmental challenges, and knowledge shortfalls. We performed a systematic literature review to analyze the seed dispersal network in the Cerrado and the potential impacts of the defaunation of large‐bodied frugivores on it. We considered network metrics, calculated the defaunation index of the frugivore assemblage, and compared traits among different fruit‐sized plants and their respective dispersers in the network. We retrieved 1565 interactions involving 193 plant species and 270 animal species. Results show that the Cerrado seed dispersal network is slightly nested and considerably modular, dominated by small‐ to medium‐sized generalist species, such as passerines, marsupials, and mesocarnivores. Nonetheless, large‐bodied frugivores like the lowland tapir have a key role in the network due to their great foraging and network integration capacity. The Cerrado frugivore assemblage is moderately defaunated, with possible effects in its interactions with large‐fruited plants. The Cerrado's defaunation and functional loss of large vertebrates deserve urgent attention to further understand the impacts on seed dispersal mechanisms and ecosystem functioning.
Substance use disorders, physical health and recovery capital: Examining the experiences of clients and the alcohol and other drug workforce
Authors: Osborne Briony , Kelly Peter J.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Challenges associated with the integration of physical health within alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment services persist. The construct of recovery capital has gained currency within the sector, however, its potential in understanding the integration of physical health within AOD treatment has not been examined. This study explores the role of physical health in the process of recovery, examining the potential of ‘recovery capital’ frameworks to enhance integrated care.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with residential and outpatient AOD services across New South Wales, Australia. Qualitative data was collected from clients (n = 20) and staff (n = 13) and transcribed. Data were systematically coded and analysed using the iterative categorisation method.

Results

Unmanaged physical health issues compromised recovery, particularly when associated with hopelessness and pain. Improved physical health ameliorated sources of negative recovery capital such as boredom, social isolation and mental health symptoms. When addressed during treatment, physical health facilitated recovery capital resources through knowledge and skill acquisition, increased autonomy, enjoyment and immersive experience. Benefits extended to domains of ‘social capital’ (social connection) and ‘cultural capital’ (physical appearance).

Discussion and Conclusions

Physical health offers variegated pathways for building recovery capital. Findings support calls for a more assertive approach to addressing physical health when AOD treatment occurs outside of primary care settings. Future research should examine the potential of recovery capital as a heuristic for optimising care of physical health issues and health‐related behaviour within AOD treatment services.
Effects of morphological characteristics of patent foramen ovale by transesophageal echocardiography on minimalist transcatheter closure in southern China
Authors: Zhang Shushan , Gao Ziqing , Chen Hui , Pi Songying , Wu Chaoqun , He Kunyan , Chen Xiaobo
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Transcatheter closure has become one of the main treatment methods for patent foramen ovale (PFO). However, the population in southern China is generally thin and the size of PFO is small, so the application of minimalist surgery is challenging. This study aimed to analyze the morphological characteristics of PFOs in southern China by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and to explore the influence on minimalist transcatheter closure.

Methods

About 110 patients with PFO closure in our hospital were selected. All cases were examined by TEE including the PFO size, length, septum secundum thickness, color characteristic and surrounding structures, and morphologically classified. During the operation, the procedure time, number of times for the guidewire attempting to pass the interatrial septum and the success rate of simply using J guidewire to cross the interatrial septum were recorded.

Results

About 110 cases of PFO were classified into two categories and four subtypes, including 55 cases with Uniform Channel Type (UCT, 50.0%), 16 cases with Irregular Channel Type (ICT, 14.6%), 15 cases with Right Funnel Type (RFT, 13.6%), and 24 cases with Left Funnel Type (LFT, 21.8%). According to the complexity of the procedure, they were divided into simple procedure (n = 73) and complex procedure (n = 37). Multivariate logistic regression showed that the anatomical types of PFO, the tunnel entrance size, and the tunnel entrance size <2 mm were independent factors affecting the complexity of procedure [OR = 2.819, 95% CI (1.124, 7.066), p = .027; OR = .027, 95% CI (.004, .208), p = .001; OR = 4.715, 95% CI (1.028, 21.619), p = .046]. With ICT and LFT groups, the procedure duration was relatively long (p < .001), number of times for the guidewire attempting to pass the interatrial septum was significantly increased (p < .001), and the success rate of simply using J guidewire to cross the interatrial septum was relatively low (p < .001).

Conclusions

The PFO size in southern China was relatively small and characterized by large tunnel tension. It was concluded that TEE could clearly show the morphological characteristics of PFO, which could provide guidance for making more reasonable surgical plans in clinical practice, shorten the procedure time and improve the success rate of PFO closure.
Orthodontic management of traumatic dental injuries in Norway and orthodontists' perceptions of referral routines: A quality assurance survey
Authors: Beyene Madeleine Misje Roman , Bårdsen Asgeir , Klock Kristin Solveig , Sulo Gerhard , Thelen Dorina Sula
Published: May 2023

Background/Aim

Orthodontic treatment of patients with traumatic dental injuries is challenging, with limited evidence of routines and outcomes. The aims of this study were: (i) to describe how orthodontists perceive the information on traumatic dental injuries received by referral from the Public Dental Health Service before orthodontic treatment and (ii) to assess orthodontists' knowledge and working routines in managing traumatic dental injuries.

Materials and Methods

Data were obtained through a survey of all practicing orthodontists registered as members of the Norwegian Association of Orthodontists (n = 203).

Results

Eighty‐three orthodontists were enrolled, most of whom had received their dental degree (73.0%) and specialist orthodontic training (88.5%) in Norway. They reported examining patients with a history of traumatic dental injury at weekly (34.2%) or monthly (38.0%) basis. In 85.5% of cases, they obtained a history of traumatic dental injury from patients. Half of the respondents (51.3%) favoured two‐phase early orthodontic treatment for patients with an overjet ≥6 mm. The observation time and treatment strategy showed considerable discrepancies across traumatic dental injury diagnoses. Most (59.1%) orthodontists considered the information on previous traumatic dental injuries provided by the Public Dental Health Services referral ‘inadequate’, more commonly in cases of mild (83.5%) than severe (57.5%) traumatic dental injuries.

Conclusions

Orthodontic management of patients with traumatic dental injuries was characterised by lack of uniformity in both recommended observation time before orthodontic treatment and management strategy. The referral routines by the Public Dental Health Services for patients with traumatic dental injuries were perceived as ‘inadequate’ in terms of frequency and quality. The results indicate the requirement of standardisation of routines related to orthodontic management of traumatic dental injuries and referral routines by the Public Dental Health Services.
Joint European Academy of Neurology–European Pain Federation–Neuropathic Pain Special Interest Group of the International Association for the Study of Pain guidelines on neuropathic pain assessment
Authors: Truini Andrea , Aleksovska Katina , Anderson Christopher C. , Attal Nadine , Baron Ralf , Bennett David L. , Bouhassira Didier , Cruccu Giorgio , Eisenberg Elon , Enax‐Krumova Elena , Davis Karen Deborah , Di Stefano Giulia , Finnerup Nanna B. , Garcia‐Larrea Luis , Hanafi Ibrahem , Haroutounian Simon , Karlsson Pall , Rakusa Martin , Rice Andrew S. C. , Sachau Juliane , Smith Blair H. , Sommer Claudia , Tölle Thomas , Valls‐Solé Josep , Veluchamy Abirami
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

In these guidelines, we aimed to develop evidence‐based recommendations for the use of screening questionnaires and diagnostic tests in patients with neuropathic pain (NeP).

Methods

We systematically reviewed studies providing information on the sensitivity and specificity of screening questionnaires, and quantitative sensory testing, neurophysiology, skin biopsy, and corneal confocal microscopy. We also analysed how functional neuroimaging, peripheral nerve blocks, and genetic testing might provide useful information in diagnosing NeP.

Results

Of the screening questionnaires, Douleur Neuropathique en 4 Questions (DN4), I‐DN4 (self‐administered DN4), and Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) received a strong recommendation, and S‐LANSS (self‐administered LANSS) and PainDETECT weak recommendations for their use in the diagnostic pathway for patients with possible NeP. We devised a strong recommendation for the use of skin biopsy and a weak recommendation for quantitative sensory testing and nociceptive evoked potentials in the NeP diagnosis. Trigeminal reflex testing received a strong recommendation in diagnosing secondary trigeminal neuralgia. Although many studies support the usefulness of corneal confocal microscopy in diagnosing peripheral neuropathy, no study specifically investigated the diagnostic accuracy of this technique in patients with NeP. Functional neuroimaging and peripheral nerve blocks are helpful in disclosing pathophysiology and/or predicting outcomes, but current literature does not support their use for diagnosing NeP. Genetic testing may be considered at specialist centres, in selected cases.

Conclusions

These recommendations provide evidence‐based clinical practice guidelines for NeP diagnosis. Due to the poor‐to‐moderate quality of evidence identified by this review, future large‐scale, well‐designed, multicentre studies assessing the accuracy of diagnostic tests for NeP are needed.
PTPN22 activates the PI3K pathway via 14‐3‐3τ in T cells
Authors: Bai Bin , Wang Tao , Zhang Xiaonan , Ba Xinlei , Zhang Na , Zhao Yanjiao , Wang Xipeng , Yu Yang , Wang Bing
Published: May 2023

The protein tyrosine phosphatase PTPN22 inhibits T cell activation by dephosphorylating some essential proteins in the T cell receptor‐mediated signalling pathway, and its negative regulatory function protects organisms from autoimmune disease. 14‐3‐3τ is an adaptor protein that regulates target protein function through its intracellular localization. In the present study, we determined that PTPN22 binds to 14‐3‐3τ via the PTPN22‐Ser640 phosphorylation side. PTPN22 binding to 14‐3‐3τ resulted in 14‐3‐3τ‐Tyr179 dephosphorylation, and reduced the association between 14‐3‐3τ and Shc, which competitively increased 14‐3‐3ζ binding to Shc and activated phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) by bringing it to the membrane. In addition, PTPN22 decreased the tyrosine phosphorylation of p110 to activate PI3K. These two pathways cooperatively affect PI3K activity and the expression of PI3K downstream proteins, such as phosphorylated Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin and forkhead box O1, which inhibited the expression of some proinflammatory factors such as interleukin‐1β, interleukin‐2, interleukin‐6, interferon‐γ and tumour necrosis factor‐α. Our research provides a preliminary theory for PTPN22 regulating T cell activation, development and immune response via the PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway and brings new information for clarifying the functions of PTPN22 in autoimmune diseases.
Binding of different hyaluronan to CD44 mediates distinct cell adhesion dynamics under shear flow
Authors: Li Linda , Ding Qihan , Wu Yi , Zheng Zhi , Zhang Xiaoning , Zhang Mingkun , Long Mian , Lü Shouqin
Published: May 2023

As a known receptor–ligand pair for mediating cell–cell or cell–extracellular matrix adhesions, cluster of differentiation 44 (CD44)‐hyaluronan (HA) interactions are not only determined by molecular weight (MW) diversity of HA, but also are regulated by external physical or mechanical factors. However, the coupling effects of HA MW and shear flow are still unclear. Here, we compared the differences between high molecular weight HA (HHA) and low molecular weight HA (LHA) binding to CD44 under varied shear stresses. The results demonstrated that HHA dominated the binding phase but LHA was in favour of the shear resistance phase, respectively, under shear stress range ≤ 1.0 dyne·cm−2. This difference was attributed to the high binding strength of the CD44–HHA interaction, as well as the optimal distribution matching between both CD44 and HA sides. Activation of the intracellular signal pathway was sensitive to both HA MW and shear flow. Our findings also indicate that only CD44–HHA interaction under shear stress of 0.2 dyne·cm−2 could significantly enhance the clustering of CD44, as well as induce the increase in both CD44 and CD18 expression. The present study offers the basis for further quantification of the features of CD44–HA interactions and their biological functions.
Temperature change effects on marine fish range shifts: A meta‐analysis of ecological and methodological predictors
Authors: Dahms Carolin , Killen Shaun S.
Published: May 2023

The current effects of global warming on marine ecosystems are predicted to increase, with species responding by changing their spatial distributions. Marine ectotherms such as fish experience elevated distribution shifts, as temperature plays a key role in physiological functions and delineating population ranges through thermal constraints. Distributional response predictions necessary for population management have been complicated by high heterogeneity in magnitude and direction of movements, which may be explained by both biological as well as methodological study differences. To date, however, there has been no comprehensive synthesis of the interacting ecological factors influencing fish distributions in response to climate change and the confounding methodological factors that can affect their estimation. In this study we analyzed published studies meeting criteria of reporting range shift responses to global warming in 115 taxa spanning all major oceanic regions, totaling 595 three‐dimensional population responses (latitudinal, longitudinal, and depth), with temperature identified as a significant driver. We found that latitudinal shifts were the fastest in non‐exploited, tropical populations, and inversely correlated with depth shifts which, in turn, dominated at the trailing edges of population ranges. While poleward responses increased with rate of temperature change and latitude, niche was a key factor in predicting both depth (18% of variation) and latitudinal responses (13%), with methodological predictors explaining between 10% and 28% of the observed variance in marine fish responses to temperature change. Finally, we found strong geographical publication bias and limited taxonomical scope, highlighting the need for more representative and standardized research in order to address heterogeneity in distribution responses and improve predictions in face of changing climate.
Human‐induced behavioural changes of global threatened terrestrial mammals
Authors: Zhang Chao , Li Yumei , Hu Xiaoyu , Ma Xiaofan , Jia Wei , Liu Kai , Nie Yonggang
Published: May 2023

Aim

Understanding changes in the behaviour of threatened species responding to rapidly increasing human disturbances is critical for biodiversity conservation. Here, we synthesize a meta‐analysis of the cumulative effect of human disturbances on the behaviour of global threatened terrestrial mammals.

Location

Global terrestrial ecosystem.

Time Period

Data collected from 1993 to 2021.

Major Taxa Studied

Terrestrial mammals.

Results

There were significant differences in behavioural changes among categories of human disturbances (i.e. biological invasion, climate change, grazing, habitat degradation, protection management, road traffic and tourism). The effect size of road traffic on behavioural change was the largest and particularly led habitat selection to be more specialized. The effect size for habitat degradation on foraging behaviour was the largest, and the effect mainly led to a shorter time spent in foraging and a change in food selection. Changes to behaviour increased with human disturbance intensity and varied among species according to their functional traits including body mass, food habits, migration and group type. Climate change, grazing, road traffic and tourism had a greater effect on larger species. The effect size for habitat degradation on omnivorous species was the largest, while carnivorous and solitary species were more sensitive to tourism, and migratory species were especially vulnerable to climate changes.

Main Conclusions

The diverse human disturbances interact with disturbance intensity, and some species' functional traits significantly affected the behavioural change in threatened terrestrial mammals. Such behavioural changes away from predisturbance patterns may have consequences for their fitness and community interactions. The management and conservation of threatened species should incorporate knowledge of their behavioural responses to human disturbance and take into account the potential ecological consequences for biodiversity conservation.
Earthquake disturbance shifts metabolic energy use and partitioning in a monodominant forest
Authors: Xu Meng , Allen Robert B. , Newman Erica A.
Published: May 2023

Aim

Both macroecology and disturbance ecology have long been used to characterize population‐ and community‐level patterns across scales, but the integration of both approaches in characterizing disturbed ecosystems is rare. Here, we use the maximum entropy theory of ecology (METE) to model the individual size distribution (ISD) of trees in pre‐ and post‐disturbance tree populations and estimate the corresponding metabolic scaling exponents.

Location

New Zealand.

Time Period

1987–1999.

Major Taxa Studied

Mountain beech (Fuscospora cliffortioidesNothofagaceae).

Methods

METE uses information entropy and empirical macro‐state variables to constrain predictions of ecological distributions related to biodiversity. METE has successfully predicted a range of biodiversity metrics in static or relatively undisturbed conditions. However, METE can fail to accurately model ecological patterns in disturbed ecosystems. We extend existing theoretical predictions to a highly disturbed ecosystem by treating the metabolic scaling exponent and Lagrange multipliers as free parameters in METE.

Results

We showed that the fully parameterized METE (FP‐METE) model reasonably predicted the ISD of mountain beech populations in a monodominant forest after a strong earthquake, which restructured the forest. Furthermore, the FP‐METE model revealed that decreasing metabolic scaling exponent drove the substantial decline of total metabolic rate energy and the redistribution of energy towards smaller trees after the earthquake. Increased number of small trees was not sufficient to capture the full impact of disturbance on forest energy use.

Main Conclusions

Our FP‐METE model applies an informatics approach to estimate the metabolic scaling relationship. We find that instead of maintaining a fixed value, the metabolic scaling exponent is variable among populations, and declines significantly after an earthquake disturbance. This leads to major shifts in the total population metabolic energy and energy distribution. With this approach, we now have the opportunity to advance beyond categorizing forms of mathematical distributions that describe biodiversity patterns and move into a predictive framework where the true constraints on ecosystems and their dynamics emerge.
A head‐to‐head observational cohort study on the efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibodies against calcitonin gene–related peptide for chronic and episodic migraine
Authors: Saccà Francesco , Braca Simone , Sansone Mattia , Miele Angelo , Stornaiuolo Antonio , De Simone Roberto , Russo Cinzia Valeria
Published: May 2023

Objective

To compare the effectiveness and safety of galcanezumab, fremanezumab, and erenumab for the treatment of chronic and episodic migraine, through real‐world data.

Background

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting the calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP) pathway have been tested extensively in several clinical trials for both episodic and chronic migraine, showing high effectiveness, safety, and tolerability; however, there are no prospective real‐world studies intending to compare their efficacy and safety.

Methods

This is a prospective observational cohort study comparing the effectiveness and safety profiles of galcanezumab, fremanezumab, and erenumab for the treatment of chronic and episodic migraine. We enrolled 140 patients at the Headache Centre of University Federico II of Naples, with a history of multiple failed treatments with validated migraine preventatives. Framenezumab, erenumab, or galcanezumab were administered for 12 months. The mean monthly days with headache, Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) score, and adverse events were evaluated during the run‐in period and every 3 months by reviewing standardized paper patient headache diaries.

Results

We found a mean reduction of migraine monthly days from baseline of −12.0 (−9.8, −14.1) in the galcanezumab group, −12.3 (−10.2, −14.3) in the fremanezumab group, and −10.8 (−8.5, −13.1) in the erenumab group (for all, p < 0.001). We found a mean reduction of MIDAS score of −32.6 (−26.6, −38.5) in the galcanezumab group, −33.4 (−28.0, −38.9) in the fremanezumab group, and −29.2 (−23.0, −35.4) in the erenumab group (for all, p < 0.001). We found no significant differences between mAbs in the reduction of mean monthly days with headache and MIDAS score. We found a more rapid effect of galcanezumab and erenumab compared to fremanezumab in medication overuse headache patients after 3 months of treatment (−10.8 and −11.1 vs. −4.0 days; p = 0.029).

Conclusion

Our results confirm the therapeutic benefits of anti‐CGRP mAbs. There is no evidence that suggests that one antibody may be superior to the others in terms of effectiveness, both in chronic and episodic patients.