bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What it means to be a professional development school: the Nine Essentials
Authors: Cosenza Michael , Badiali Bernard , Burns Rebecca West , Coler Cynthia , Goree Krystal , Polly Drew , Stoicovy Donnan , Zenkov Kristien
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The National Association for Professional Development Schools (NAPDS) recognizes that there is a tendency for the term “PDS” (Professional Development School) to be used as a catch-all for various relationships that constitute school–university partnership work. The intent of this NAPDS statement is to assert the essentials, or fundamental qualities, of a PDS. NAPDS encourages all those working in school–university relationships to embrace the Nine Essentials of PDSs communicated in this statement. The Essentials are written in tangible, rather than abstract, language and represent practical goals toward which work in a PDS should be directed.

Design/methodology/approach

Policy statement.

Findings

NAPDS maintains that these Nine Essentials need to be present for a school-university relationship to be called a PDS. Without having all nine, the relationship that exists between a school/district and college/university, albeit however strong, would not be a PDS. How individual PDSs meet these essentials will vary from location to location, but they all need to be in place to justify the use of the term “PDS.”

Practical implications

For those in established PDSs, some aspects of this document will be confirmed, while other aspects may be identified as needing attention. For those aspiring to establish PDSs, the authors offer this statement as a useful guide for their work. NAPDS invites individuals involved in school–university partnerships to share this statement with colleagues in the spirit of continuous improvement. By coming to terms with the challenges and opportunities inherent in this statement, the study can collectively fulfill the vision of this remarkable and distinct partnership called PDS.

Originality/value

This policy statement articulates how the Nine Essentials are the foundation of PDS work.
Genomic and environmental insights and conservation challenges for two hybridizing iconic crocodile species across Mexico: Crocodylus acutus and C. moreletii
Authors: Suárez‐Atilano M. , Pacheco‐Sierra G. , Vázquez‐Domínguez E. , Kass J. M. , Paz A. , Pérez‐Alquicira J.
Published: September 2023

Hybridization is of key relevance for conservation of wild species, and yet it is still one of the most controversial issues in conservation. Identifying historical and contemporary factors promoting the formation and maintenance of hybrids is crucial for the management of endangered species, as well as characterizing the environmental factors and patterns of habitat use among parental species and their hybrids. Crocodiles are a conservation priority group since all 23 species recognized worldwide are in a protected category and hybridization occurs between many of their species, particularly between Crocodylus acutus and C. moreletii. Their hybridization system encompasses a geographically extensive hybrid zone, where two distinct hybrids and two C. acutus lineages have diverged and only a few geographically isolated populations of both parental species remain. We used a combined approach of genome‐wide sequencing and ecological niche modeling to discern the geographic and temporal patterns of introgression, migration, and demography, and to assess the ecological niches of the distinct lineages. Our approach enabled us to determine the spatial and temporal components of the divergence and admixture events of hybrids and non‐admixed lineages, to describe the environmental characteristics and geographic extent of areas of sympatry, and to confirm human‐mediated hybridization events. Our findings also showed overall distinct ranges and ecological niches among lineages, where hybrids presented a different set of environmental requirements from both parental species. This approach can be readily applied to different taxa and ecological contexts, providing species information on genetics and the environment with direct conservation relevance. We additionally describe the various conservation challenges that C. acutus and C. moreletii currently face, highlighting that these distinct crocodile species and hybrid lineages warrant recognition and need urgent conservation effort.
What happens when fire is too early? Observations of fire‐stimulated fruit opening releasing underdeveloped seeds for an endemic Cerrado shrub
Authors: Fontenele Hudson G. V. , Miranda Heloisa S.
Published: September 2023

The relation of fire with the reproductive process of species from tropical grasslands and savannas has long been investigated. Post‐fire flowering is well documented in the Cerrado, but fire‐mediated fruit opening and seed dispersal has rarely been described, with very few historical records being known. Even less is known about the effects of different fire seasons on species reproduction. Here, we describe the fire‐stimulated fruit opening of Jacaranda ulei, an endemic Cerrado shrub with medical importance to traditional communities. We show that fruits opened within 2 weeks after an early dry season fire, but there were almost no viable seeds as fruits were still immature when burned. When put together with the known records for other species, dry dehiscent fruits and anemochory arise as common traits that favour fire‐mediated fruit opening. As these are common attributes in the Cerrado, it is possible that several other species also have fire‐stimulated seed dispersal but remain vastly unnoticed and underreported in the literature. Additionally, the peak reproductive effort of these species coincides with the period of prescribed burns of the Integrated Fire Management Program and, consequently, several species could also have their reproductive cycle interrupted to disperse immature seeds. We hope our note encourages further studies on the fire‐mediated fruit opening and seed dispersal of Cerrado species, particularly in relation to fire season and seed quality.
Orbital shape in sheep and goats with sex and breed factors
Authors: Karaavci Funda Aksünger , Demiraslan Yasin , Demircioğlu İsmail , Gürbüz İftar , Özgel Özcan
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify the dimorphic structures of the orbita based on breed and sex factors through shape analysis across species. Additionally, the study aimed to ascertain the variability between the two species. A total of 86 (51 sheep—Akkaraman [Ak] and Morkaraman [Mk], 35 goats—Hair [Hr] and Honamlı [Hm]) skulls were used in the study. It was decided to designate 36 landmarks to represent the orbit's edge. In the principal component analysis, 68 PCs were calculated. It was determined that PC1, PC2 and PC3 explained the total variance in morphology by 26.909%, 16.147% and 13.616%, respectively. According to the cross‐validation results, the goats were grouped with 95% (Hm: 100%, Hr: 90%), while the sheep were grouped with 56% (Ak: 50%, Mk: 63%). Therefore, dimorphism among goat breeds on orbita shape was more pronounced compared to sheep. In the discriminant function analysis of the sex groups, Procrustes and Mahalanobis distance values in goats were 0.04425425 (p < 0.0001) and 5.3733 (p = 0.9550), in sheep 0.03513424 (p < 0.0001) and 7.1003 (p = 0.9414), respectively, was detected. According to the cross‐validation results, in terms of sex, goats were correctly grouped at a rate of 74% (F: 73%; M: 75%) and sheep breeds were correctly grouped at a rate of 72% (F: 77%; M: 66%). Factors such as habitat selection, breeding behaviours and ecological environment may show anatomical differences within breeds as well as between breeds. Therefore, various measurement techniques are used to reveal these differences. As a result, it is thought that the study will contribute to many disciplines, especially taxonomy and zooarchaeology, by analysing the shape of the orbita of sheep and goat breeds, the domestication of which dates back to ancient times, and revealing the similarities and differences between species and according to sex.
The role of women on board in combatting greenwashing: A new perspective on environmental performance
Authors: Zahid R. M. Ammar , Maqsood Umer Sahil , Irshad Shoaib , Khan Muhammad Kaleem
Published: September 2023

This article aims to improve the understanding of corporate governance and environmental reporting literature by analyzing the impact of board gender diversity (BGD) on environmental performance, environmental disclosure, and greenwashing behavior. The panel regression estimation technique with fixed effects was applied to Chinese firm data. As a result, it was found that more women who served on corporate boards enhanced the company's environmental performance and disclosures while limiting greenwashing behavior. The result indicated that women in top management play a constructive role in establishing firms' active environmental initiatives. Furthermore, this relationship was nonlinear and exponentially increased when women's representation reached the threshold of 33.5% representation on board or higher. Based on the findings, no internal bias was found even after other governance and firm‐level control factors and probable endogenies were considered and variable biases were omitted. Notably, the results present important implications for regulators and policymakers by highlighting the influential role of BGD in promoting environmentally responsible practices and reducing greenwashing.
Nameability supports rule‐based category learning in children and adults
Authors: Zettersten Martin , Bredemann Catherine , Kaul Megan , Ellis Kaitlynn , Vlach Haley A. , Kirkorian Heather , Lupyan Gary
Published: September 2023

The present study tested the hypothesis that verbal labels support category induction by providing compact hypotheses. Ninety‐seven 4‐ to 6‐year‐old children (M = 63.2 months; 46 female, 51 male; 77% White, 8% more than one race, 4% Asian, and 3% Black; tested 2018) and 90 adults (M = 20.1 years; 70 female, 20 male) in the Midwestern United States learned novel categories with features that were easy (e.g., “red”) or difficult (e.g., “mauve”) to name. Adults (d = 1.06) and—to a lesser extent—children (d = 0.57; final training block) learned categories composed of more nameable features better. Children's knowledge of difficult‐to‐name color words predicted their learning for categories with difficult‐to‐name features. Rule‐based category learning may be supported by the emerging ability to form verbal hypotheses.
The effects of carvacrol and p‐cymene on Aβ1‐42‐induced long‐term potentiation deficit in male rats
Authors: Kazemi Sahifeh , Safari Samaneh , Komaki Somayeh , Karimi Seyed Asaad , Golipoor Zoleikha , Komaki Alireza
Published: September 2023

Aims

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia in which oxidative stress plays an important role. In this disease, learning and memory and the cellular mechanism associated with it, long‐term potentiation (LTP), are impaired. Considering the beneficial effects of carvacrol (CAR) and p‐cymene against AD, their effect was assessed on in vivo hippocampal LTP in the perforant pathway (PP)‐dentate gyrus (DG) pathway in an Aβ1‐42‐induced rat model of AD.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to five groups: sham: intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection of phosphate‐buffered saline, Aβ: ICV Aβ1‐42 injections, Aβ + CAR (50 mg/kg), Aβ + p‐cymene (50 mg/kg), and Aβ + CAR + p‐cymene. Administration of CAR and p‐cymene was done by gavage daily 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after the Aβ injection. The population spike (PS) amplitude and field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSP) slope were determined in DG against the applied stimulation to the PP.

Results

Aβ‐treated rats exhibited impaired LTP induction in the PP‐DG synapses, resulting in significant reduction in both fEPSP slope and PS amplitude compared to the sham animals. Aβ‐treated rats consumed either CAR or p‐cymene separately (but not their combination), and showed an enhancement in fEPSP slope and PS amplitude of the DG granular cells.

Conclusions

These data indicate that CAR or p‐cymene can ameliorate Aβ‐associated changes in synaptic plasticity. Surprisingly, the combination of CAR and p‐cymene did not yield the same effect, suggesting a potential interaction between the two substances.
The “One‐Step” approach for QT analysis increases the sensitivity of nonclinical QTc analysis
Authors: Leishman Derek J. , Holdsworth David L. , Lauver D. Adam , Bailie Marc B. , Roche Brian M.
Published: September 2023

Whether a compound prolongs cardiac repolarization independent of changes in beat rate is a critical question in drug research and development. Current practice is to resolve this in two steps. First, the QT interval is corrected for the influence of rate and then statistical significance is tested. There is renewed interest in improving the sensitivity of nonclinical corrected QT interval (QTc) assessment with modern studies having greater data density than previously utilized. The current analyses examine the effects of moxifloxacin or vehicle on the QT interval in nonhuman primates (NHPs) using a previously described one‐step method. The primary end point is the statistical sensitivity of the assessment. Publications suggest that for a four animal crossover (4 × 4) in NHPs the minimal detectable difference (MDD) is greater than or equal to 10 ms, whereas in an eight animal crossover the MDD is ~6.5 ms. Using the one‐step method, the MDD for the four animal NHP assessments was 3 ms. In addition, the one‐step model accounted for day‐to‐day differences in the heart rate and QT‐rate slope as well as drug‐induced changes in these parameters. This method provides an increase in the sensitivity and reduces the number of animals necessary for detecting potential QT change and represents “best practice” in nonclinical QTc assessment in safety pharmacology studies.
Colon resection and anastomosis as treatment of an idiopathic colo‐colic intussusception in an adult horse
Authors: Barnes Hattie , Wilkinson Sarah , Gillen Alexandra , Stack John D.
Published: September 2023

An 18‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding was referred for further investigation and treatment of acute colic. Exploratory celiotomy was recommended based on the degree of suspected large colon distension on rectal palpation, and only transient reprieve from colic signs following analgesia. This subsequently revealed an intussusception affecting the left dorsal colon (LDC) with the orad LDC (intussusceptum) within the aborad LDC (intussuscipiens). The intussusception, approximately 20 cm in length, was obstructing the colon. Following exteriorisation, reduction of the intussusception was performed, but marked thickening of the colon wall and luminal obstruction led to the decision to perform a partial colon resection of the left dorsal and ventral colon and side‐to‐side anastomosis. The gelding made an unremarkable recovery from anaesthesia and progressed well post‐operatively. Histopathology found no clear cause of the intussusception. Follow‐up (11 months post‐operatively) confirmed complete recovery and the horse had returned to the previous level of light exercise.
Postsecondary French, German, and Spanish teachers' conceptualizations of social justice: A case study
Authors: Goodspeed Lauren , Paesani Kate , Menke Mandy , Ruf Helena
Published: September 2023

Social justice and critical pedagogies have become an increasingly important focus in language education in recent years. Although instructional and professional development resources are increasingly available, little is known about how language teachers understand social justice and related pedagogies, particularly in postsecondary contexts. Relatedly, little is known about how teachers understand critical pedagogies that prioritize language‐content integration through a simultaneous focus on proficiency development and engagement with target language texts. This multiple case study addresses these research gaps by examining postsecondary French, German, and Spanish teachers' conceptualizations of social justice in language education as they created social justice curricular units. Findings show that these conceptualizations are complex and multifaceted and span the what, why, and how of social justice in language education. Insights gleaned from these findings have important implications for language teacher professional development and future research.
Illegal incidents and violations related to Atlantic salmon fishing in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, during 2001–2020
Authors: Van Leeuwen Travis E. , Cote David , Lehnert Sarah J. , Lewis Sky Ann , Walsh Daryl , Bungay Kerry , Kelly Nicholas I. , McGinn Jason , Adams Blair , Dempson J. Brian
Published: September 2023

Resource user compliance is a key element in effective fisheries management. Herein, we examine two decades of enforcement records pertaining to Atlantic salmon from Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Illegal incidents were negatively correlated with the number of licensed anglers but not salmon abundance. Over two decades, illegal incidents declined by 66%, even after correcting for the positive relationship between enforcement effort and illegal incidents. This decline was primarily driven by a 67% reduction in netting and jigging‐related violations, which were likely to impose the highest levels of mortality on adult salmon among violations examined. Additionally, illegal incidents and violation types did not increase as a result of management changes. While Newfoundland and Labrador remains one of the last strongholds for Atlantic salmon, we encourage other jurisdictions to monitor fisheries compliance to better understand the social‐ecological landscape that is crucial to supporting healthy fisheries.
Enhancement of emulsion stability and functional properties of hemp protein‐based dairy alternative by different treatments after cellulase hydrolysis
Authors: Rawal Kirti , Annamalai Pratheep Kumar , Ningtyas Dian Widya , Prakash Sangeeta
Published: September 2023

Hemp milk is a plant‐based beverage emerging as a sustainable dairy alternative and it is essential to improve the emulsification properties and stability of hemp protein for increasing acceptability. This study demonstrates the preparation of protein‐rich hemp milk with enhanced emulsion stability and functional properties through cellulase hydrolysis of fibre components in hemp protein. The emulsions were prepared using the hemp dispersions obtained after cellulase treatment followed by mechanical treatment (ME) and in combination with either enzymatic (trypsin) (EE) or mild chemical (pH‐shift) treatment (PE). The influences of these treatments on the particle size distribution, zeta potential, flow behaviour, microstructure, flocculation, and coalescence properties of the emulsions are investigated. The emulsions (EE/PE) prepared with dispersions processed through tryptic or pH shift treatments showed improved stability as indicated by reduced flocculation and coalescence indices (8.9% and 10.8%, for EE and 11.8% and 13.2% for PE) as compared to only mechanically treated emulsion (ME) (37.5% and 15.3%). Furthermore, the enhanced stability of EE and PE samples is attributed to a reduction in particle size and enhanced zeta potential (EE: 45.1 mV > PE: 38.7 mV > ME: 34.1 mV).
A bibliometric study: Relevant studies on scar laser therapy since the 21st century
Authors: Zuo Yiwei , Deng Kexin , Tang Fengjie , Chen Shuyue , Liu Daisong , Han Zhaofei , Shi Ke , Chen Jia , Li Ping , Zhou Jianda , Liu Can
Published: September 2023

To summarise research studies on scar laser therapy since the 21st century using bibliometric methods, and to speculate on the possible development in the future. The literature about scar laser therapy in Web of Science database was searched. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to analyse main countries, institutions, journals，subject hotspots and trends, etc. A total of 884 papers have been published since the 21st century. These publications were written by 653 authors from 515 institutions in 58 countries. The United States published 287 papers in this field and ranks first. Laser in Surgery and Medicine is the most widely published journal, with Shumaker as the core author. The main keyword clustering includes terms such as combination therapy, wound healing, fractional photothermolysis, experience, scar formation, etc. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to sort out and summarise the countries, institutions, authors, journals, research hotspots and frontier topics of related literature about scar laser therapy since the 21st century. The current situation of its application and basic scientific research in clinical treatments were summarised briefly. This provides a new idea for the development and research of scar laser therapy in the future.
Spanish version of the Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory: A validation study amongst community‐dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity
Authors: Hernández‐Padilla José Manuel , Dobarrio‐Sanz Iria , Fernández‐Sola Cayetano , del Mar Jiménez‐Lasserrotte María , Correa‐Casado Matías , Ruiz‐Fernández María Dolores
Published: September 2023

Aim

To psychometrically assess the Spanish version of the Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory (SC‐CII‐Sp) in community‐dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Design

A methodological study.

Method

A total of 1260 older adults participated in the study between May 2020 and February 2022. The data were analysed using SPSS Statistics® 26 and AMOS® 24. The items' content validity index and the Fleiss' kappa were calculated to assess the SC‐CII‐Sp's content validity. Convergent validity was assessed by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient between the participants' scores on the SC‐CII‐Sp and their scores on the Spanish Chronic Disease Self‐Efficacy scale (SCD‐SE). Construct validity was tested by performing a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The SC‐CII‐Sp's reliability was tested by computing the Cronbach's alpha.

Results

The SC‐CII‐Sp showed good content and convergent validity. The CFA showed that the SC‐CII‐Sp has three sub‐scales. The 8‐item Self‐Care Maintenance sub‐scale has good internal consistency and is comprised of two dimensions: illness‐related and health‐promoting behaviour. The Self‐Care Monitoring sub‐scale had excellent internal consistency and its five loaded items belonged to a single dimension. The 6‐item Self‐Care Management sub‐scale has adequate internal consistency and two dimensions: autonomous and consulting behaviour.

Conclusion

The Spanish version of SC‐CII is a valid and reliable instrument to be used in the assessment of self‐care behaviours amongst Spanish‐speaking, community‐dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Implications for the Profession

Nurses need valid and reliable tools to assess self‐care behaviours in Spanish‐speaking community‐dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity. This study provides a 19‐item tool that allows for the comprehensive evaluation of self‐care behaviours in healthy and ill states.

Impact

Using the SC‐CII‐Sp in clinical or research settings could help nurses to examine the effects of different interventions on self‐care behaviours amongst Spanish‐speaking, community‐dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Patient or Public Contribution

None to be reported.
Investigating mechanisms of political polarization: Perceivers spontaneously infer ideological categories from other people's behavior
Authors: Sander Carsten W. , Degner Juliane
Published: September 2023

When observing others' behavior, people routinely infer personality traits from it. Research on the correspondence bias has shown that they draw these inferences even from behavior that is situationally constrained. Moreover, these inferences often happen spontaneously, that is, when people have no intention of forming an impression. The current research investigated whether the same applies for inferences of ideological categories, such as conservative, feminist, or climate change denier. We present a series of five preregistered experiments (N = 1012) employing both direct and indirect measures from the impression formation literature. In Experiments 1 and 2, we found that people deliberately, as well as spontaneously, inferred ideological categories from ideology‐implying behavioral descriptions. In Experiments 3, 4, and 5, we found these inferences to be very robust, in that they persist even when alternative reasons for the ideology‐implying behaviors are presented, suggesting that they are subject to the correspondence bias. We argue that to the extent that people attribute negative valence (affective polarization) or extreme attitudes (perceived issue polarization) to ideological categories, spontaneous inferences of these categories can serve as a precondition for a range of negative interpersonal outcomes related to political polarization.
A 30‐year retrospective cohort outcome study of periodontal treatment of stages III and IV patients in a private practice
Authors: Fardal Øystein , Skau Irene , Grytten Jostein
Published: September 2023

Aim

Tooth loss studies show that periodontal treatment is effective. However, it is not known whether these results can be projected into a lifetime of treatment. The aim of the study was to study all patients with stages III/IV of periodontitis over 30 years in a private practice.

Materials and Methods

All patients referred between 1986 and 1990 were monitored for 30 years for tooth loss and prognostic factors. All dropouts were accounted for.

Results

In all, 386 patients were followed, of whom 283 patients dropped out, leaving 103 patients (67 females and 36 males, average age 40.1 years) monitored over 30 years. Tooth loss was stable until 16 years, when the population was divided into groups of low (n = 65), moderate (n = 18) and high (n = 20) tooth loss, losing 1.05 (SD 1.27), 4.83 (SD 0.96) and 11.90 (SD 4.25) teeth, respectively. The strongest prognostic factors were first‐degree relatives with periodontitis, periodontal treatment before the age of 35 years, diabetes and patients with teeth with initial hopeless prognosis.

Conclusion

The majority of patients with stages III and IV periodontitis could be successfully treated with conventional periodontal treatment over a period of 30 years. The findings suggest that retrospective studies with shorter observation times cannot automatically be projected onto the outcome of a lifetime of periodontal treatment.
On the lectotype designation of Bryconamericus rubropictus (Berg) (Characiformes, Characidae, Stevardiinae)
Authors: Vanegas‐Ríos James A. , Chiaramonte Gustavo E.
Published: September 2023

The lectotype specimen of Bryconamericus rubropictus (Berg) and its designation have remained imprecisely documented since its publication. The lack of a photograph or an unambiguous illustration, correct size, inaccurate labelling, and proper specimen separation has led to an uncertainty about the identity and nomenclatural status of the lectotype. We recovered and provided detailed morphological data on the specimen that must be recognised as the lectotype. This contribution brings stability and clarity on the nomenclatural status of the species and its type material.
Lugol‐unstained lesions location in the esophagus affects the detection rate of malignancy: a population‐based study
Authors: Qin Jing , Liu Mengfei , Liu Anxiang , Guo Chuanhai , Qi Zifan , Zhou Ren , Yang Haijun , Li Fenglei , Duan Liping , Shen Lin , Wu Qi , Liu Zhen , Pan Yaqi , Liu Fangfang , Liu Ying , Cai Hong , He Zhonghu , Ke Yang
Published: September 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Lugol‐unstained lesion (LUL) location on the detection yield, which may help the endoscopist select targets for biopsy.

Methods

We enrolled 1064 subjects who had LULs at the baseline screening of a population‐based randomized controlled trial. There were 1166 LULs with recorded location and pathologic diagnosis, and these were used for analysis. The detection rate of severe dysplasia and above (SDA) was calculated as the number of LULs identified as SDA divided by the number of LULs biopsied. Logistic regression with a generalized estimating equation was applied to evaluate the association between the location of a given LUL and the risk of the LUL being SDA.

Results

The detection rate of SDA for LULs located in the lower, middle, and upper esophagus increased from 5.9% and 10.9% to 16.7%. LUL location was significantly associated with having SDA (adjusted odds ratio (OR)upper vs. lower = 2.88, 95% confidential interval (CI) = 1.48–5.60; adjusted ORmiddle vs. lower = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.96–2.76), and the association was stronger in subgroups with a family history of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) (adjusted ORupper vs. lower = 9.72, 95% CI = 2.57–36.69; adjusted ORmiddle vs. lower = 3.76, 95% CI = 0.93–15.21).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that more attention should be paid by endoscopists to LULs in the upper and middle esophagus, particularly for individuals with a family history of ESCC.
Bridging imaging users to imaging analysis – A community survey
Authors: Sivagurunathan Suganya , Marcotti Stefania , Nelson Carl J , Jones Martin L , Barry David J , Slater Thomas J A , Eliceiri Kevin W , Cimini Beth A
Published: September 2023

The ‘Bridging Imaging Users to Imaging Analysis’ survey was conducted in 2022 by the Center for Open Bioimage Analysis (COBA), BioImaging North America (BINA) and the Royal Microscopical Society Data Analysis in Imaging Section (RMS DAIM) to understand the needs of the imaging community. Through multichoice and open‐ended questions, the survey inquired about demographics, image analysis experiences, future needs and suggestions on the role of tool developers and users. Participants of the survey were from diverse roles and domains of the life and physical sciences. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to survey cross‐community to bridge knowledge gaps between physical and life sciences imaging. Survey results indicate that respondents' overarching needs are documentation, detailed tutorials on the usage of image analysis tools, user‐friendly intuitive software, and better solutions for segmentation, ideally in a format tailored to their specific use cases. The tool creators suggested the users familiarise themselves with the fundamentals of image analysis, provide constant feedback and report the issues faced during image analysis while the users would like more documentation and an emphasis on tool friendliness. Regardless of the computational experience, there is a strong preference for ‘written tutorials’ to acquire knowledge on image analysis. We also observed that the interest in having ‘office hours’ to get an expert opinion on their image analysis methods has increased over the years. The results also showed less‐than‐expected usage of online discussion forums in the imaging community for solving image analysis problems. Surprisingly, we also observed a decreased interest among the survey respondents in deep/machine learning despite the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence in biology. In addition, the community suggests the need for a common repository for the available image analysis tools and their applications. The opinions and suggestions of the community, released here in full, will help the image analysis tool creation and education communities to design and deliver the resources accordingly.
Clinical features of chronic primary pain in individuals presenting painful temporomandibular disorder and comorbidities
Authors: dos Santos Proença Juliana , Baad‐Hansen Lene , do Vale Braido Guilherme Vinícius , Campi Letícia Bueno , de Godoi Gonçalves Daniela Aparecida
Published: September 2023

Background

The diagnosis of chronic primary pain (CPP), according to the recently released International Classification of Disease (ICD‐11) criteria, refers to conditions with complex aetiologies. CPP is characterized by specific clinical features such as generalized sensory hypersensitivity and widespread pain, and is associated with functional disability and emotional distress.

Objective

This study investigated clinical features of CPP in individuals with painful temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and comorbidities (fibromyalgia, migraine and/or tension‐type headache).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted with a sample of 129 individuals. Painful TMD, fibromyalgia and primary headaches were evaluated based on well‐established international criteria. Generalized sensory hypersensitivity was assessed using psychophysical tests. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7 and Patient Health Questionnaire‐9. The Central Sensitization Inventory was applied to assess central sensitization‐related symptoms and the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index to evaluate the quality of sleep. The presence of widespread pain was assessed using a body map. The sample was stratified into three groups: control (n = 25), TMD—painful TMD only (n = 35) and TMD + Cm—painful TMD and comorbidities (n = 69). Statistical analysis was performed using one‐way ANOVA, chi‐squared test and ANCOVA, considering gender as a covariate (α = .05).

Results

Compared to controls, individuals presenting painful TMD and comorbidities showed lower pressure pain thresholds in all evaluated areas (p ≤ .012) and a higher number of painful areas in the body (p = .001). They presented more symptoms of anxiety (p = .040) and depression (p = .018), and a higher score in the Central Sensitization Inventory (p ≤ .006) than the other groups.

Conclusion

Individuals with painful TMD and comorbidities presented more clinical features of CPP compared to those affected by TMD only.
Predictors of patients' satisfaction after temporomandibular disorder treatment in a referral clinic
Authors: Bousché G. , Koutris M. , Su N. , Verhoeff M. C. , Lobbezoo F.
Published: September 2023

Background

Evaluating patients' satisfaction after received care for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) pain provides oral health care professionals with knowledge and tools to improve their clinical procedures. However, knowledge on patient characteristics that determine satisfaction with the received care for TMD pain is lacking.

Objective

To identify potential baseline predictors for patients' satisfaction regarding the management of TMD pain upon treatment completion in a referral clinic.

Methods

Eligible patients, viz., individuals of ≥16 years of age, with a TMD‐pain diagnosis according the diagnostic criteria for TMD (DC/TMD), and who were treated in a referral clinic, were included. As part of their standard care, a set of diagnostic questionnaires was filled in (e.g. TMD‐pain screener, graded chronic pain scale (GCPS), etc.). After completion of the received care, patients filled in a custom‐made questionnaire based on patient reported experience measures (PREMs) to quantify their satisfaction with their treatment results and received care. To identify potential predictors associated with patients' satisfaction, univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients (mean 39.6, SD 15.0) were included in this study. Overall, the patients were satisfied with the treatment results and the received care. Depressive feelings were negatively associated with satisfaction of treatment results (p = .01) and positively associated with satisfaction of received care (p = .01), while pain intensity was negatively associated with satisfaction of the received care.

Conclusion

Depressive feelings are a significant negative predictor of patients' satisfaction with the treatment result for TMD pain, while average pain intensity is a significant negative predictor of patients' satisfaction with the received care.
The visual perception of wetness: The role of stain chroma, size, and hue
Authors: Merrick Charlotte , Rosati Rodrigo , Filingeri Davide
Published: September 2023

A range of sensory cues contribute to human wetness perception, yet we know little of how visual modalities are involved, specifically if in‐situ physical observations differ from ex‐situ online observations. We aimed to assess the effect of stain volume, chroma, size, and hue on the wetness perception of static images, with a comparison to previously collected in‐situ data. A total of 440 participants completed the online study, including 18 from an analogous in‐situ study. Stimuli varied in physical wetness (0, 2.16 × 10−4 or 3.45 × 10−4 mL mm−2), stain chroma (clear saline, light synthetic urine, dark synthetic urine) and stain size (1150 or 5000 mm2). Further stimuli of a fixed wetness (3.45 × 10−4 mL mm−2) varied in stain hue (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet) and stain size (1150 or 5000 mm2). Participants rated wetness perception using a visual analogue scale (very dry to very wet) and modified yes/no task (dry/wet, gloss/matte, dilute/concentrate). Participants successfully discriminated between all physical wetness levels. Wetness perception shared a positive relationship with stain chroma and size, and varied with hue such that higher wavelengths resulted in greater wetness perception. Finally, online and in‐situ wetness perception did not significantly differ.

Practical Applications

The findings fundamentally contribute to our scientific understanding of wetness perception, giving evidence toward different multisensory integration theories. Further applications lie in industry, such as improving the structure, function, and perception of absorbent hygiene products or informing the design of sportswear with moisture management properties. Additionally, findings may aid the improvement of digital software which uses visual wetness components, for example in augmented and virtual realities.
The effect of sleep restriction therapy for insomnia on REM sleep fragmentation: A secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Maurer Leonie Franziska , Sharman Rachel , Espie Colin Alexander , Kyle Simon David
Published: September 2023

Rapid eye movement sleep fragmentation is hypothesised to be a reliable feature of insomnia, which may contribute to emotion dysregulation. Sleep restriction therapy, an effective intervention for insomnia, has the potential to reduce rapid eye movement sleep fragmentation through its manipulation of basic sleep–wake processes. We performed secondary data analysis of a randomised controlled trial to examine whether sleep restriction therapy reduces rapid eye movement sleep fragmentation in comparison to a matched control arm. Participants (n = 56; 39 female, mean age = 40.78 ± 9.08 years) were randomly allocated to 4 weeks of sleep restriction therapy or 4 weeks of time in bed regularisation. Ambulatory polysomnographic recordings were performed at baseline, week 1 and week 4. Arousals during rapid eye movement and non‐rapid eye movement sleep were scored blind to group allocation. The following rapid eye movement sleep fragmentation index was the primary outcome: index 1 = (rapid eye movement arousals + rapid eye movement awakenings + non‐rapid eye movement intrusions)/rapid eye movement duration in hours. Secondary outcomes were two further indices of rapid eye movement sleep fragmentation: index 2 = (rapid eye movement arousals + rapid eye movement awakenings)/rapid eye movement duration in hours; and index 3 = rapid eye movement arousals/rapid eye movement duration in hours. A non‐rapid eye movement fragmentation index was also calculated (non‐rapid eye movement arousals/non‐rapid eye movement duration in hours). Linear‐mixed models were fitted to assess between‐group differences. There was no significant group difference for the primary rapid eye movement fragmentation index at week 1 (p = 0.097, d = −0.31) or week 4 (p = 0.741, d = −0.06). There was some indication that secondary indices of rapid eye movement fragmentation decreased more in the sleep restriction therapy group relative to control at week 1 (index 2: p = 0.023, d = −0.46; index 3: p = 0.051, d = −0.39), but not at week 4 (d ≤ 0.13). No group effects were found for arousals during non‐rapid eye movement sleep. We did not find clear evidence that sleep restriction therapy modifies rapid eye movement sleep fragmentation. Small‐to‐medium effect sizes in the hypothesised direction, across several indices of rapid eye movement fragmentation during early treatment, demand further investigation in future studies.
HIV and HCV testing at clinical encounters among people who inject drugs, 2013–2018—Opportunities for increased testing and prevention
Authors: Evans Kimberly N. , Vettese Theresa , Wortley Pascale M. , Gandhi Ami P. , Bradley Heather
Published: September 2023

People who inject drugs (PWID) with unsafe injection practices have substantial risk for HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. We describe frequency of, and factors associated with, HIV and HCV testing during clinical encounters with PWID. Inpatient and Emergency Department clinical encounters at an Atlanta hospital were abstracted from medical records spanning January 2013–December 2018. We estimated frequency of HIV and HCV testing during injection drug use (IDU)‐related encounters among PWID without previous diagnoses. We assessed associations between patient factors and testing using generalized estimating equations models. HIV testing occurred in 39.3% and HCV testing occurred in 17.1% of eligible IDU‐related encounters. Testing was more likely in IDU‐related encounters during 2017–2018 than in encounters during 2013–2014; (HIV, AOR = 2.14, 95% CI, 1.32–3.49, p < .01). Testing was less likely among Black/African American patients compared to White patients (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: HIV, AOR = 0.48, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.33–0.72, p < .01); HCV, AOR = 0.41, 95% CI, 0.24–0.70, p < .01). This difference may be attributable to recent testing among Black patients in non‐IDU related encounters. HIV and HCV testing improved over time; however, missed opportunities for testing still existed. Strategies should aim to improve equitable HIV and HCV testing among PWID.
Relationship between magnetic resonance imaging findings and histological grade in spinal peripheral nerve sheath tumors in dogs
Authors: Morabito Simona , Specchi Swan , Di Donato Pamela , Pollard Danica , Dennis Ruth , De Risio Luisa , Bacon Nicholas J. , Potamopoulou Maria , Rupp Stefan , Corlazzoli Daniele , Ribeiro João , Cozzi Francesca , Jurina Konrad , Cappello Rodolfo , Mercuriali Edy , Beckmann Katrin , Flegel Thomas , Menchetti Marika , König Florian , Matiasek Kaspar , Rosati Marco
Published: September 2023

Background

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) are a group of neoplasms originating from Schwann cells or pluripotent cell of the neural crest. Therapeutic options and prognosis are influenced by their degree of malignancy and location.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Identify magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features predictive of PNST histologic grade.

Animals

Forty‐four dogs with histopathological diagnosis of spinal PNSTs and previous MRI investigation.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective study including cases with (a) histopathologic diagnosis of PNST and (b) MRI studies available for review. Histologic slides were reviewed and graded by a board‐certified pathologist according to a modified French system (FNCLCC) for grading soft tissue sarcomas. The MRI studies were reviewed by 2 board‐certified radiologists blinded to the grade of the tumor and the final decision on the imaging characteristics was reached by consensus. Relationships between tumor grade and histological and MRI findings were assessed using statistical analysis.

Results

Forty‐four cases met inclusion criteria; 16 patients were PNSTs Grade 1 (low‐grade), 19 were PNSTs Grade 2 (medium‐grade), and 9 were PNSTs Grade 3 (high‐grade). Large volume (P = .03) and severe peripheral contrast enhancement (P = .04) were significantly associated with high tumor grade. Degree of muscle atrophy, heterogeneous signal and tumor growth into the vertebral canal were not associated with grade.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Grade of malignancy was difficult to identify based on diagnostic imaging alone. However, some MRI features were predictive of high‐grade PNSTs including tumor size and peripheral contrast enhancement.
Effects of SARPE and MISMARPE on correction of transverse maxillary deficiency: A preliminary comparative evaluation
Authors: da Silva Andreza Vieira , da Rosa Bibiana Mello , Matje Paulo R. B. , Rizzatto Susana Maria Deon , de Oliveira Rogério Belle , Haas Orion L. , de Menezes Luciane Macedo
Published: September 2023

Aim

The present study was designed to compare, on cone‐beam computed tomography imaging, the skeletal and dental effects of the SARPE (Surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion) and MISMARPE (Minimally Invasive Surgical and Miniscrew‐Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion) techniques.

Materials and methods

The sample of adult patients with transverse maxillary deficiency (TMD) was divided into two groups, and scans were obtained preoperatively (T0) and immediately after completion of expansion (T1). The posterior and anterior linear transverse distances of the maxilla and the angulation of the maxillary first molars were evaluated. The data were entered into a generalized estimating equations model to verify the postoperative effects of the different techniques.

Results

None of the techniques caused any appreciable change in the angulation of the molars. The skeletal changes were similar, with significantly greater gains in the nasal fossa and intermaxillary distance when using the MISMARPE.

Conclusion

The technique can be an effective and lower morbidity alternative to SARPE.
Effects of dominant ant species on ant community structure and ant–hemipteran interactions
Authors: Costa‐Silva Vitor M. , Soares Calixto Eduardo , Moreira Xoaquín , Del‐Claro Kleber
Published: September 2023

Ants often interact aggressively for resources (e.g. nest sites and food) with members of their own or another species. In these competitive interactions, dominant ant species exert a strong influence on ant species coexistence and plant‐associated arthropod community structure. However, few studies have experimentally manipulated the relative abundance of dominant ant species on plants, preventing a mechanistic understanding of the effects of ant competitive interactions on ant community structure as well as on their interactions with other insects, particularly mutualistic hemipterans. In this study, we performed a field experiment in a tropical dry forest in Brazil to investigate the effects of two dominant ant species (Camponotus crassus and Cephalotes pusillus) on the structure ant communities and the abundance of the ant‐tended hemipteran Enchenopa brasiliensis in Solanum lycocarpum plants. For this, we identified and quantified all ant species foraging on plants and estimated the number of egg masses, nymphs and adults of the mutualistic hemipteran before and after experimentally removing nests of both two dominant ant species. Our results showed that removal of C. pusillus nests significantly changed ant community structure, whereas removal of C. crassus nests did not. We also found that nest removal of both dominant ant species had significant effects on hemipteran abundance. In particular, plants generally hosted more hemipteran eggs, nymphs and adults after (vs before) nest removal of both dominant ant species. Overall, this study demonstrates that dominant ant species can play a pivotal role in structuring ant communities and the interactions between ants and honeydew‐producing hemipteran insects.