bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative outcomes of various transplantation platforms, highlighting haploidentical transplants with post‐transplantation cyclophosphamide for adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma
Authors: Yoshimitsu Makoto , Tanaka Takashi , Nakano Nobuaki , Kato Koji , Muranushi Hiroyuki , Tokunaga Masahito , Ito Ayumu , Ishikawa Jun , Eto Tetsuya , Morishima Satoko , Kawakita Toshiro , Itonaga Hidehiro , Uchida Naoyuki , Tanaka Masatsugu , Akizuki Keiichi , Ishitsuka Kenji , Ohigashi Hiroyuki , Ota Shuichi , Ando Toshihiko , Kanda Yoshinobu , Fukuda Takahiro , Atsuta Yoshiko , Fuji Shigeo ,   ATL Working Group of the Japanese Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy
Published: October 2024

This study retrospectively compared outcomes of various allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) platforms in patients with adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma. Platforms included human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐haploidentical‐related donors using post‐transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCY), HLA‐matched related donors (MRD), HLA‐matched unrelated donors (MUD) and cord blood transplantation (CBT). Patients who underwent their first allo‐HCT between 2016 and 2021 were included. Outcomes analysed were overall survival (OS), relapse and non‐relapse mortality (NRM). Seven hundred patients were included (PTCY, n = 121; MRD, n = 91; MUD, n = 160; CBT, n = 328). With a median follow‐up of 794 days for survivors, 2‐year OS was 48.1% (PTCY), 48.8% (MRD), 48.4% (MUD) and 34.6% (CBT); the respective 2‐year cumulative incidence of relapse was 37.1%, 47.5%, 33.9% and 45.1% and that of NRM was 24.2%, 19.8%, 24.7% and 27.3%. PTCY was associated with delayed platelet engraftment relative to MRD and MUD. There was no increase in the incidence of severe acute or chronic graft‐versus‐host disease. In the PTCY group, poor performance status was a significant predictor of inferior OS, and infused CD34+ cell numbers of less than 5 × 106/kg were associated with delayed neutrophil and platelet engraftment. These results suggest that allo‐HCT with PTCY is a safe and effective platform for patients with adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma.
NeuPreSS: Compact Neural Precomputed Subsurface Scattering for Distant Lighting of Heterogeneous Translucent Objects
Authors: TG T. , Frisvad J. R. , Ramamoorthi R. , Jensen H. W.
Published: October 2024

Monte Carlo rendering of translucent objects with heterogeneous scattering properties is often expensive both in terms of memory and computation. If the scattering properties are described by a 3D texture, memory consumption is high. If we do path tracing and use a high dynamic range lighting environment, the computational cost of the rendering can easily become significant. We propose a compact and efficient neural method for representing and rendering the appearance of heterogeneous translucent objects. Instead of assuming only surface variation of optical properties, our method represents the appearance of a full object taking its geometry and volumetric heterogeneities into account. This is similar to a neural radiance field, but our representation works for an arbitrary distant lighting environment. In a sense, we present a version of neural precomputed radiance transfer that captures relighting of heterogeneous translucent objects. We use a multi‐layer perceptron (MLP) with skip connections to represent the appearance of an object as a function of spatial position, direction of observation, and direction of incidence. The latter is considered a directional light incident across the entire non‐self‐shadowed part of the object. We demonstrate the ability of our method to compactly store highly complex materials while having high accuracy when comparing to reference images of the represented object in unseen lighting environments. As compared with path tracing of a heterogeneous light scattering volume behind a refractive interface, our method more easily enables importance sampling of the directions of incidence and can be integrated into existing rendering frameworks while achieving interactive frame rates.
Glymphatic system dysfunction and risk of clinical milestones in patients with Parkinson disease
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Jiang Xianchen , Guan Xiaojun , Guo Tao , Wu Jingjing , Wu Haoting , Wu Chenqing , Chen Jingwen , Wen Jiaqi , Tan Sijia , Duanmu Xiaojie , Qin Jianmei , Yuan Weijin , Zheng Qianshi , Huang Peiyu , Zhang Baorong , Xu Xiaojun , Zhang Minming
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose

Glymphatic dysfunction may play a significant role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. We aimed to evaluate the association between glymphatic dysfunction and the risk of malignant event/clinical milestones in Parkinson disease (PD).

Methods

This study included 236 patients from August 2014 to December 2020. Diffusion tensor imaging analysis along the perivascular space (DTI‐ALPS) index was calculated as an approximate measure of glymphatic function. The primary outcomes were four clinical milestones including recurrent falls, wheelchair dependence, dementia, and placement in residential or nursing home care. The associations of DTI‐ALPS with the risk of clinical milestones were examined using multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models. Then, logistic regression was repeated using clinical variables and DTI‐ALPS index individually and in combination of the two to explore the ability to distinguish patients who reached clinical milestones within a 5‐year period.

Results

A total of 175 PD patients with baseline DTI‐ALPS index and follow‐up clinical assessments were included. A lower DTI‐ALPS was independently associated with increased risk of recurrent falls, wheelchair dependence, and dementia. Additionally, in 103 patients monitored over 5 years, a logistic regression model combining clinical variables and DTI‐ALPS index showed better performance for predicting wheelchair dependence within 5 years than a model using clinical variables or DTI‐ALPS index alone.

Conclusions

Glymphatic dysfunction, as measured by the DTI‐ALPS index, was associated with increased risk of clinical milestones in patients with PD. This finding implies that therapy targeting the glymphatic system may serve as a viable strategy for slowing down the progression of PD.
Safety and tolerability of intravenous undiluted levetiracetam in pediatrics: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Singh Ravipal , Troelstrup David , Dahl Nikolai
Published: October 2024

Time is critical in executing acute seizure treatment, and efforts to minimize operational delays with medication preparation confer potential logistical and practical advantages. Multiple studies have demonstrated the safety and tolerability of intravenous (IV) undiluted levetiracetam (LEV) in adults; however, published pediatric data are limited. This study aims to evaluate the safety and tolerability of IV undiluted LEV in pediatrics. This was a retrospective, dual‐center, observational cohort study evaluating concentration‐related adverse drug events with IV undiluted (100 mg/mL) LEV in pediatrics over a 3‐year 3‐month timespan. A total of 60 undiluted administrations in 52 patients were included in the study. The median age was 4 years; 58.3% of patients were younger than 5 years of age. All doses were administered via a peripheral IV line. The most common IV anatomic site and peripheral IV gauge (G) was the antecubital (66.6%) and 22G catheter (63.3%). There were no documented concentration‐related adverse drug events. Regardless of IV anatomic site, IV gauge, and administered dose there were no documented concentration‐related adverse effects with IV undiluted LEV in a pediatric population. IV undiluted LEV may be considered safe and tolerable in pediatrics. Prospective pediatric studies should assess the safety and tolerability of IV undiluted LEV.
Gendering the Iron Law of Oligarchy: Or how organizing an official football team became a strategy of “passive revolution”
Authors: Las Heras Jon , Messina Ignacio
Published: October 2024

The ongoing debate in organization and management studies regarding the transformation of oligarchic structures through rank‐and‐file participation often overlooks gender dynamics. Drawing from the experience of Argentine women playing football independently, this article argues that promoting gender inequalities and reinforcing masculine stereotypes can preserve class disparities in trade unions. Additionally, it highlights how trade unions, by extending control into women's leisure, can perpetuate oligarchic structures, emphasizing the importance of politicizing leisure as a domain of gender inequalities. In turn, the patriarchal‐oligarchic organization represents a unique form of class and gender domination that reconfigures itself by co‐opting informal solidarity networks.
Editor's highlights – November, 2024
Authors: Kemény Lajos
Published: October 2024

Recent developments in the understanding of the pathophysiology of inflammatory skin diseases have resulted in the emergence of new treatments. However, new therapies are frequently accompanied by new side effects. In the November issue of the Journal, we explore recent advances on how Cutibacterium acnes phylotypes are involved in biofilm formation and its significance in therapy resistance. The Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor‐induced acneiform eruptions also raise intriguing questions about the complex relationship between JAK inhibition and acne pathophysiology. We also provide real‐world data on recent therapies for atopic dermatitis, hyperkeratotic hand and foot dermatitis, and generalized pustular psoriasis.
Efficacy and safety of oral minoxidil versus topical solution in androgenetic alopecia: a meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Sobral Milene Vitória Sampaio , Moreira João Lucas de Magalhães Leal , Rodrigues Livia Kneipp , Rocha Paula , Pirolla Rafaela da Cunha , Soares Victor Gonçalves , Lima Davi Santos , Moulaz Isac Ribeiro , da Silva Beatrhiz Costa , de Melo Caroline Baima
Published: October 2024

The benefits and potential risks of oral minoxidil therapy versus topical minoxidil therapy in patients with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) are controversial. We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing the use of oral minoxidil and minoxidil topical solution in patients with AGA. Statistical analyses were performed using R Studio 4.3.2. Standard mean difference (SMD) and risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled across trials. This meta‐analysis included four RCTs reporting data on 279 patients. Follow‐up ranged from 24 to 39 weeks. There were no differences in hair density (SMD 0.02; 95% CI −0.25 to 0.29; P = 0.88; I2 = 0%) or hair diameter (SMD −0.25; 95% CI −0.75 to 0.26; P = 0.34; I2 = 36%). The incidence of hypertrichosis was statistically significantly higher in the oral minoxidil group when compared to the topical minoxidil group (RR 2.01; 95% CI 1.18–3.41; P = 0.01; I2 = 0%). There was no statistically significant difference between groups for the incidence of hypotension (RR 2.42; 95% CI 0.26–22.46; P = 0.44; I2 = 0%). In patients with AGA, oral minoxidil and minoxidil topical solution have similar efficacy and safety, with equivalent improvements in hair density, hair diameter, and incidence of adverse events, such as hypotension.
High prevalence of avian adapted CC5Staphylococcus aureus isolates in poultry meat in Spain: food chain as vehicle of MRSA and MSSA CC398‐t1451
Authors: Eguizábal Paula , Fernández‐Fernández Rosa , Campaña‐Burguet Allelen , González‐Azcona Carmen , Marañón‐Clemente Irene , Tenorio Carmen , Torres Carmen , Lozano Carmen
Published: October 2024

Staphylococcus aureus can cause food poisoning and human infections and CC5 and CC398 are relevant lineages in the animal‐human interface. The objective was to determine the S. aureus prevalence in chicken‐derived food, and to study the diversity of lineages, and their antimicrobial resistance and virulence genotypes. Sixty poultry‐food samples were processed, and the S. aureus isolates obtained were characterised. Antibiotic susceptibility was performed and the presence of resistance/virulence genes, and avian mobile genetic elements (MGEs) was studied. Forty‐four non‐repetitive S. aureus isolates were obtained of 28/60 samples (46.7%), and 43 methicillin‐susceptible (MSSA) and one methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) isolates were detected. Five S. aureus isolates were multidrug‐resistant and 50% of isolates showed susceptibility to all tested antibiotics. Eighteen spa‐types, 11 sequence‐types and 8 clonal‐complexes were identified in the S. aureus collection. Three CC398 isolates (2 MSSA/1 MRSA) of spa‐type‐t1451 were detected, and MSSA‐CC398 isolates harboured the scn‐gene (absent in MRSA‐CC398). CC5 was the most frequent lineage identified (56.8%), all MSSA, and 56.7% of them contained avian‐MGEs. A high prevalence of avian‐adapted MSSA‐CC5 isolates was detected. Poultry meat has been shown to be a vehicle for CC398‐t1451 isolates, both MRSA and MSSA, showing characteristics of the animal and human clades, respectively.
A comprehensive review of sensors of radiation‐induced damage, radiation‐induced proximal events, and cell death
Authors: Saini Saurabh , Gurung Prajwal
Published: October 2024

Radiation, a universal component of Earth's environment, is categorized into non‐ionizing and ionizing forms. While non‐ionizing radiation is relatively harmless, ionizing radiation possesses sufficient energy to ionize atoms and disrupt DNA, leading to cell damage, mutation, cancer, and cell death. The extensive use of radionuclides and ionizing radiation in nuclear technology and medical applications has sparked global concern for their capacity to cause acute and chronic illnesses. Ionizing radiation induces DNA damage either directly through strand breaks and base change or indirectly by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) via radiolysis of water. This damage triggers a complex cellular response involving recognition of DNA damage, cell cycle arrest, DNA repair mechanisms, release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and cell death. This review focuses on the mechanisms of radiation‐induced cellular damage, recognition of DNA damage and subsequent activation of repair processes, and the critical role of the innate immune response in resolution of the injury. Emphasis is placed on pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and related receptors that detect damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and initiate downstream signaling pathways. Radiation‐induced cell death pathways are discussed in detail. Understanding these processes is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the harmful effects of radiation and improve therapeutic outcomes.
Acute Care Nurses' Partnership With Patients to Recognise and Respond to Changes in Patients' Clinical States: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Burdeu Gabrielle , Rasmussen Bodil , Lowe Grainne , Considine Julie
Published: October 2024

Aim

To explore and describe acute care nurses' partnership with patients to recognise and respond to changes in patients' clinical states. Acute care nurses' decisions to partner with patients to recognise deterioration in clinical states and to respond by activating a rapid response system improves patient outcomes. Acutely unwell patients can also experience clinical changes that include improvement and deterioration that does not trigger rapid response system activation over the course of hospitalisation from illness and treatment. How acute care nurses partner with patients in response to improvement and deterioration not triggering a rapid response system is not well‐understood.

Design

An exploratory, descriptive study underpinned by Tanner's Clinical Judgement Model.

Methods

Using purposive and quota sampling, 20 nurses with direct patient care responsibilities on one medical and one surgical ward in a large Australian hospital were recruited. Nonparticipant observations followed by semistructured interviews were conducted between January and May of 2021. Nurse–patient interactions were observed for 4 h, and verbally described and recorded. Semistructured interviews were recorded and explored nurses' reasoning behind decisions observed. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Three themes were identified from the data: nurses checking in for changes; nurses forming judgements; and nurses partnering with patients to respond. Acute care nurses promoted subjective assessment based on patients' safety risks. Patients' participation in response to changes was prioritised based on acute care nurses' judgement of safety.

Conclusion

Patients receive significant safety benefits when acute care nurses partner with patients in response to their experience of improvement and deterioration during acute illness. Further research should evaluate the sensitivity of subjective cues in patient assessment.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

Partnership with patients in assessment and management of improvement and deterioration improves the quality and safety of patient care.

Assessment frameworks should equally prioritise the use of objective and subjective cues.

Nursing education should promote the safety benefits of patient partnerships in responding to patient changes.

Reporting Method

Equator checklist COREQ.

Patient or Public Contribution

Data collected included description of patients' interactions with study participants.
An Evaluative Study of a Nurse‐Led Surgical Information Initiative for Gender Diverse Individuals Seeking Genital Surgery
Authors: Kearns Seán , Forrester Pauline , O'Shea Donal , Neff Karl
Published: October 2024

Aim

To evaluate the impact of nurse‐led one‐on‐one psychoeducation sessions on gender diverse individuals seeking gender‐affirming genital surgery.

Design

A quasi‐experimental, pre‐ and post‐test research design was employed to examine the impact of a nurse‐led initiative on improving patients self‐perceived knowledge and confidence pertaining to gender affirming genital surgery. The study followed the SQUIRE 2.0 (Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence) guidelines and the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) guidelines.

Methods

The curriculum for the initiative was crafted through literature reviews, expert panel engagements, multidisciplinary team input and was delivered by two specialist gender nurses.

Results

The results indicated a statistically significant increase in all participants' self‐perceived knowledge and confidence scores. Furthermore, the study increased confidence in the ability to ask questions and plan for the logistical and financial aspects of surgery.

Conclusion

Participants reported that the sessions were very useful, and for most, the information did not change their desire to seek surgery but did help them make more informed choices about the procedure, timing and preferred surgeon.

Implications for Patient Care

The study underscores the imperative role of support networks and recommends interventions to facilitate open communication within families. The study emphasises the importance of customising healthcare approaches to align with the preferences of patients.

Impact

The study addressed the need for psychoeducation sessions for individuals considering gender‐affirming genital surgery. The main findings revealed a significant increase in participants' self‐perceived knowledge and confidence, following a nurse‐led intervention. The research's impact extends to gender‐diverse individuals seeking surgery globally.

Patient or Public Contribution

Four individuals who had undergone gender‐affirming surgeries contributed their perspectives to the study design, ensuring that the educational content addressed specific information needs and concerns.
Newly Graduated Perioperative Nurses' Experiences of Transitioning to Clinical Practice: A Qualitative Explorative Secondary Analysis
Authors: Kaldheim Hege Kristin Aslaksen , Munday Judy , Haddeland Kristine , Fossum Mariann
Published: October 2024

Aim

The aim of this secondary analysis was to explore newly graduated perioperative nurses' experiences of transitioning to clinical practice to gain more in‐depth knowledge of this phenomenon.

Design

A qualitative explorative study of secondary data was used, and this study was reported following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.

Methods

A secondary analysis of data collected between March 2019 and November 2020 via 16 semi‐structured interviews with newly graduated perioperative nurses. The interviews were conducted 3 to 5 months after they graduated from five different educational institutions in Norway and entered clinical practice as perioperative nurses. A three‐step phenomenological hermeneutical analysis inspired by Ricoeur's theory was applied: naïve reading, structural analysis and comprehensive understanding.

Results

We identified three themes: expectations of competence, facilitation for newly graduated perioperative nurses and the transition from being a student to a newly qualified perioperative nurse.

Conclusions

Newly graduated perioperative nurses emphasised the critical role of supportive facilitation, manageable expectations and support from leaders and colleagues, which seemed essential for a successful transition to clinical practice.

Impact

This study addresses knowledge essential for universities, universities colleges and clinical practice, specifically healthcare organisations, to understand the transition process for newly graduated perioperative nurses. This can support the establishment of improved practices to ensure patient safety via more specific education and mentoring and more accurate expectations of competence.

Patient and Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Professional Bereavement in Nursing: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis
Authors: He Xingyue , Wang Yanxing , Yang Caizheng , Cao Huili , Wang Qiaohong , Yang Hui
Published: October 2024

Aims

Clarify and define the concept of professional bereavement in nursing.

Design

Rodgers' evolutionary method was used to identify the attributes, antecedents, and consequences of professional bereavement in nursing.

Data Sources

Literature from inception to May 20, 2024, was searched from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Medline, EBSCO host, Proquest, Ovid, and Cochrane.

Reporting Methods

The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were adopted.

Results

The 32 articles included in the study provided data on the concept of professional bereavement in nursing. We propose the concept of professional bereavement in nursing as follows: Professional bereavement in nursing is the experience of a patient or colleague's death in the workplace, influenced by contextual, internal, and external factors. Nurses perceive personal and professional losses, exhibit a multidimensional liminal state, and experience personal impacts (life and worldview) and professional impacts (health‐related productivity and professional ability).

Conclusions

We developed a preliminary conceptual model of professional bereavement in nursing based on its attributes, antecedents, and consequences. This conceptual model promotes the development of theories related to professional bereavement.

Impact

This is the first article to clarify and define professional bereavement in nursing. We have clarified the antecedents, attributes, and consequences of professional bereavement, which provides a conceptual framework for understanding professional bereavement. The conceptual framework guides the content of interventions and suggests future professional bereavement interventions from a dialectical perspective.

Patient or Public Contribution

Not applicable.
Government affiliation, analyst behavior and the economic consequences
Authors: Jia Ning , Lan Tianqi , Wang Dan , Xiaoteng Ma
Published: October 2024

A significant number of regional brokerage firms in China are owned by their respective local governments. We use this context to examine how local government affiliation affects brokerage firms’ research activities. Using a sample of analyst reports from 2013 to 2021, we find that analysts working at local government‐affiliated brokerage firms are more likely to cover firms within the local government's jurisdiction than non‐affiliated analysts. Local government‐affiliated analysts enjoy an information advantage, as evidenced by the issuance of more accurate earnings forecasts for local firms, compared to those of non‐affiliated analysts. The effect is stronger for local firms with lower information quality. Additionally, local government‐affiliated analysts show more optimism in stock recommendations, but not in earnings forecasts, for local firms, compared to non‐affiliated analysts. The effect is more pronounced for local firms that receive more local government subsidies, operate in regions with greater local government intervention or during the COVID‐19 pandemic and the National Congress conferences, and require more capital market support. The results of this study advance our understanding of the key determinants of analyst performance and provide new evidence in the debate on the role of government intervention in financial institutions.
The role of financial literacy in reducing financial distress: What if consumers were perfectly financially literate?
Authors: Białowolski Piotr , Cwynar Andrzej , Weziak‐Bialowolska Dorota
Published: October 2024

Using longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID), this study examines the extent to which financial literacy can mitigate financial distress. Employing a “what if” analysis, we simulate the effect of maximizing financial literacy on the likelihood of experiencing financial distress. We show that raising financial literacy to its highest level could prevent financial distress for a group of households facing moderate financial distress. Our results also imply that financial literacy is not a panacea for consumers' financial problems as those facing high risk of financial distress seem to be not affected by financial literacy. Interventions beyond financial literacy might be needed to effectively address financial distress.
A deficit story in motion: How marginalized youngsters are defined out of the educational game before they enter school
Authors: Miller Peggy J. , Sperry Douglas E. , Sperry Linda L.
Published: October 2024

This paper offers a case study of the Life History of the Word Gap (WG) Story, the most prominent deficit discourse of the contemporary era. Mindful of mounting critiques of deficit thinking and informed by Bakhtinian theory, we seek to understand the Story's ascendance by interrogating its evolving historical context. Where did the Story begin, what fueled its circulation, what were its consequences, and how does it end? We found that implicit biases of class, race, and method converged with sociopolitical developments to create a thoroughly flawed but remarkably resilient WG Story. Heedless of history, structural inequalities, and contradictory evidence from other disciplines, the Story spread across American research, policy, and media, attaining the status of received wisdom and infiltrating schools. Ethnographic studies revealed that the Story stigmatizes poor youngsters, shapes teachers’ and peers’ perceptions, and creates discriminatory programs and practices. We conclude by addressing obstacles to imagining new stories.
Local sleep in songbirds: different simultaneous sleep states across the avian pallium
Authors: Yeganegi Hamed , Ondracek Janie M.
Published: October 2024

Wakefulness and sleep have often been treated as distinct and global brain states. However, an emerging body of evidence on the local regulation of sleep stages challenges this conventional view. Apart from unihemispheric sleep, the current data that support local variations of neural oscillations during sleep are focused on the homeostatic regulation of local sleep, i.e., the role preceding awake activity. Here, to examine local differences in brain activity during natural sleep, we recorded the electroencephalogram and the local field potential across multiple sites within the avian pallium of zebra finches without perturbing the previous awake state. We scored the sleep stages independently in each pallial site and found that the sleep stages are not pallium‐wide phenomena but rather deviate widely across electrode sites. Importantly, deeper electrode sites had a dominant role in defining the temporal aspects of sleep state congruence. Altogether, these findings show that local regulation of sleep oscillations also occurs in the avian brain without prior awake recruitment of specific pallial circuits and in the absence of mammalian cortical neural architecture.
Influence of circadian preference, sleep inertia and their interaction on marathon completion time: A retrospective, cross‐sectional investigation of a large mass‐participation city marathon
Authors: Gratton Matthew K. P. , Charest Jonathan , Lickel James , Bender Amy M. , Werthner Penny , Pedlar Charles R. , Kipps Courtney , Lawson Doug , Samuels Charles H. , Cook Jesse
Published: October 2024

Burgeoning interest in marathons necessitates an understanding of performance determinants. Research has highlighted the importance of diet, training and sleep, yet relations of circadian preference and sleep inertia with marathon performance remain largely unexplored. Because marathons generally start early‐to‐mid morning, these characteristics may have relevant impact. This study investigates relationships of circadian preference, sleep inertia and their interaction with marathon completion time. Consenting participants in a 2016 large mass‐participation city marathon completed self‐report questionnaires capturing circadian preference and sleep inertia, along with demographics and other characteristics. Circadian preference and sleep inertia were described across subgroups. Analyses examined the associations and interactions of circadian preference and sleep inertia with marathon completion times, with adjusted analyses accounting for age, sex and sleep health. Participants were marathon finishers (n = 936; 64.5% male; 66.3% young‐adults), with a majority reporting morningness tendencies (60.8%). Results supported a linear association between increasing eveningness preference with slower marathon times (p = 0.003; padjusted = 0.002), while some support was provided for a linear relationship between greater sleep inertia and slower marathon times (p = 0.04; padjusted = 0.07). A significant interaction was observed (p = 0.02; padjusted = 0.01), with the directionality suggesting that the circadian preference relationship weakened when sleep inertia severity increased, and vice‐versa. Our results suggest deleterious associations of increasing eveningness preference and greater sleep inertia with marathon completion time. These features may aid identifying marathoners who could be at a disadvantage, while also serving as modifiable targets for personalized training regimens preceding competition.
Limited Value of HBV‐RNA for Relapse Prediction After Nucleos(t)ide Analogue Withdrawal in HBeAg‐negative Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Ohlendorf Valerie , Wübbolding Maximilian , Höner zu Siederdissen Christoph , Bremer Birgit , Deterding Katja , Wedemeyer Heiner , Cornberg Markus , Maasoumy Benjamin
Published: October 2024

International guidelines suggest cessation of nucleos(t)ide analogues (NA) independent of HBsAg loss in HBeAg‐negative patients after 2–3 years of viral suppression. Detectable HBV‐RNA levels at the time of NA cessation were linked to a better prediction of relapse after NA withdrawal in small cohorts of HBeAg‐negative patients. This study proves the impact of HBV‐RNA levels in the prediction of relapse in a large cohort of HBeAg‐negative patients, mainly infected with genotype B or C. Serum levels of HBV‐RNA, HBsAg, anti‐HBc and HBcrAg were determined before NA withdrawal in 154 HBeAg‐negative patients, participating either in a therapeutic vaccination trial (NCT02249988) or in an observational register trial (NCT03643172). Importantly, vaccination showed no impact on relapse. Endpoints of the study were virological relapse (HBV‐DNA > 2000 IU/mL) or biochemical relapse (attendant ALT levels ≥ 2 × ULN) 24 weeks after NA cessation. Virological relapse occurred in 54.5% of patients (N = 84/154), including eight patients (10%) developing an ALT flare. Baseline HBV‐RNA level did not differ significantly between relapsers and off‐treatment responders (p = 0.92). No significant difference occurred in proportions of detectable HBV‐RNA levels between off‐treatment responders (N = 27/70; 38.6%) and relapsers (N = 31/84; 36.9%) (p = 0.99). Combining predefined HBsAg cut‐offs (100 IU/mL, p = 0.0013), anti‐HBc cut‐offs (325 IU/mL, p = 0.0117) or HBcrAg cut‐offs (2 log U/mL, p = 0.66) with undetectable HBV‐RNA (HBsAg, p = 0.0057; anti‐HBc, p = 0.085; HBcrAg, p = 0.60) did not improve relapse prediction. The value of HBV‐RNA levels at timepoint of NA cessation for the prediction of relapse is limited in HBeAg‐negative patients.

Trial Registration: ABX 203‐002: NCT02249988; Terminator 2: NCT03643172
Ba and Sr isotopic patterns from step‐leaching experiments on the pristine Aguas Zarcas CM2 meteorite
Authors: McGovern Liam S. T. , Charlier Bruce L. A. , Wilson Colin J. N.
Published: October 2024

Stepwise acid leaching experiments were performed on the pre‐rain CM2 fall Aguas Zarcas to interrogate release patterns and isolate fractions with isotopic anomalies. Acid leachates and a bulk sample were analyzed for elemental abundances via solution ICP‐MS, and Sr and Ba isotopic compositions were measured using TIMS. Isotopic systematics reveal diverse values for the bulk sample and leachates, interpreted to reflect the Aguas Zarcas parent body history. Compared with the NBS987 standard, μ84Sr values for the bulk sample average + 90, while the leach fractions yield +326 to −2089, with the largest μ84Sr depletions in the strongest acid leachates. For Ba isotopes, the bulk sample shows resolvable depletions (μ values) in 130Ba (−210), 135Ba (−64), 137Ba (−73) and 138Ba (−89). Early leachates show positive anomalies in 130Ba (up to +2295), 132Ba, 135Ba, 137Ba, and 138Ba. In contrast, final leachates show strong depletions for the same nuclides (up to −60,000 ppm μ130Ba). The Sr and Ba isotopic anomalies found in the earlier leachates suggest that nucleosynthetic signatures were redistributed to more soluble phases during parent body alteration. Moreover, contrasting p‐nuclide Sr and Ba nucleosynthetic anomalies suggest that presolar contributions came from a variety of nucleosynthetic sources, including possibly a rotating massive star undergoing a core‐collapse supernova or an electron capture supernova.
Phylogenomics and phylogeographic model testing using convolutional neural networks reveal a history of recent admixture in the Canarian Kleinia neriifolia
Authors: Rincón Barrado Mario , Perez Manolo , Villaverde Tamara , García‐Verdugo Carlos , Caujapé‐Castells Juli , Riina Ricarda , Sanmartín Isabel
Published: October 2024

Multiple‐island endemics (MIE) are considered ideal natural subjects to study patterns of island colonization that involve recent population‐level genetic processes. Kleinia neriifolia is a Canarian MIE widespread across the archipelago, which exhibits a close phylogenetic relationship with species in northwest Africa and at the other side of the Sahara Desert. Here, we used target sequencing with plastid skimming (Hyb‐Seq), a dense population‐level sampling of K. neriifolia, and representatives of its African–southern Arabian relatives to infer phylogenetic relationships and divergence times at the species and population levels. Using population genetic techniques and machine learning (convolutional neural networks [CNNs]), we reconstructed phylogeographic relationships and patterns of genetic admixture based on a multilocus SNP nuclear dataset. Phylogenomic analysis based on the nuclear dataset identifies the northwestern African Kleinia anteuphorbium as the sister species of K. neriifolia, with divergence starting in the early Pliocene. Divergence from its sister clade, comprising species from the Horn of Africa and southern Arabia, is dated to the arid Messinian period, lending support to the climatic vicariance origin of the Rand Flora. Phylogeographic model testing with CNNs supports an initial colonization of the central island of Tenerife followed by eastward and westward migration across the archipelago, which resulted in the observed east/west phylogeographic split. Subsequent population extinctions linked to aridification events, and recolonization from Tenerife, are proposed to explain the patterns of genetic admixture in the eastern Canary Islands. We demonstrate that CNNs based on SNPs can be used to discriminate among complex scenarios of island migration and colonization.
Anisakis spp. as indicators of latitudinal movements of short‐finned pilot whales, Globicephala macrorhynchus, in the Northeast Atlantic
Authors: Pons‐Bordas Claudia , Pool Rachel V. , Ten Sofía , Armenteros‐Santos José A. , Balseiro Ana , Fayos Manena , Aznar F. Javier
Published: October 2024

In the Northeast Atlantic, it is unclear whether short‐finned pilot whales, Globicephala macrorhynchus (SFPWs), are transient or resident above 40°N. We used Anisakis spp. to identify the latitudes recently visited by a SFPW pod stranded in NW Spain (43°N) in 2020. Analysis of cox2 gene in 30 nematodes from 6 SFPWs revealed the presence of A. simplex sensu stricto (s.s.) (93.3%) and A. pegreffii (6.7%). Morphological analysis of 972 nematodes corroborated species molecular identification and relative proportions; in males (n = 66), the estimated proportions of A. simplex s.s. and A. pegreffii were 86.4% and 13.6%, respectively. These percentages resembled those reported in fish/cetaceans above 40°N, and L4 larvae or adults of A. typica (a tropical‐temperate species found in SFPWs up to 38°N–39°N) were not detected. Population structure of A. simplex s.s. + A. pegreffii in SFPWs suggested a continuous recruitment of nematodes starting at least 3 weeks before stranding. We interpret that either the SFPW pod was within the range of the species (perhaps as a recent northern shift) or represented a vagrant group that visited waters off Northwest Spain for a protracted period. Future analysis on nematode assemblages could shed light on movements and climate‐driven shifts in cetacean distribution.
Precipitation, solar radiation, and their interaction modify leaf hydraulic efficiency–safety trade‐off across angiosperms at the global scale
Authors: Jin Yi , Ye Qing , Liu Xiaorong , Liu Hui , Gleason Sean M. , He Pengcheng , Liang Xingyun , Wu Guilin
Published: October 2024

In theory, there is a trade‐off between hydraulic efficiency and safety. However, the strength and direction of this trade‐off at the leaf level are not consistent across studies, and habitat climate may impact this trade‐off.

We compiled a leaf hydraulic efficiency and safety dataset for 362 species from 81 sites world‐wide, with 280 paired observations of both traits, and tested whether climate was associated with departure from the proposed trade‐off.

The leaf hydraulic efficiency–safety trade‐off was weak (R2 = 0.144) at the global scale. Mean annual precipitation and solar radiation (SR) modified the trade‐off. Species from dry and high SR habitats (e.g. desert and tropical savanna) were generally located above the trade‐off line, indicating that these species tended to have higher leaf hydraulic safety and efficiency than species from wet habitats with low SR (e.g. subtropical monsoon forest and montane rainforest), which were located below the trade‐off line. Leaves with high vein density, dry leaf mass per area, and osmotic regulation enhanced safety without compromising hydraulic efficiency.

Variation in the hydraulic efficiency–safety trade‐off at the leaf level likely facilitates plant survival in specific habitats and allows for a more nuanced view of leaf hydraulic adaption strategies at the global scale.
Laminoplasty and In‐Site Regrafting for the Treatment of Thoracic Ossification of the Ligamentum Flavum: A Surgical Technique
Authors: Qian Hu , Wang Xiuqian , Lei Ting , Ao Jun , Qin Jianpu
Published: October 2024

Objective

Current surgical strategies for thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum (TOLF) are denounced by thoracic kyphosis, loss of spinal motion range, etc. A new surgical technique, laminoplasty and in‐site regrafting (LPIR), was modified to address the problems. This study aimed to report the safety and feasibility of LPIR for TOLF treatment.

Methods

This retrospective study reported the outcome of eight consecutive patients (3 males and 5 females, mean age 52.87 years) with TOLF who underwent LPIR surgery from January 2019 to March 2024. Pre‐ and post‐operative data including x‐ray, computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the modified Japanese Orthopedic Association score (mJOA), the visual analog scale (VAS), and complications were collected to evaluate the outcome.

Results

All surgeries were performed successfully, significantly alleviating symptoms postoperatively. During an average follow‐up period of 28.63 months, the VAS score reduced from 4.50 ± 1.00 pre‐operatively to 1.63 ± 0.48 on the third post‐operative day and further reduced to 0.50 ± 0.70 during the last follow‐up. The mJOA score increased from 3.63 ± 0.70 pre‐operatively to 6.13 ± 0.78 on the third postoperative day and further increased to 8.88 ± 1.27 during the last follow‐up. No severe complications were observed.

Conclusions

LPIR exhibited significant safety and feasibility for treating TOLF, offering a novel strategy for managing this problem.
Perspective of Midwives in Turkey Regarding Sexual Health Literacy and Sexual Healthcare Services
Authors: Duman Rukiye , Uncu Betül , Doğan Elif
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the factors associated with the level of sexual health literacy of midwives and their views on sexual healthcare.

Design

This is a descriptive and correlational study.

Sample

A total of 324 midwives with at least 1 year of professional experience and at least a bachelor's degree participated in the study.

Measurements

Data were collected with the “Midwife Information Form” and “Sexual Health Literacy Scale.”

Results

The professional work experience, marital status, and education related to sexual health did not affect the sexual health literacy of midwives. Age, educational status, and voluntary choice of the profession willingly affected sexual health literacy. The sexual health literacy of midwives who hold positive views on sexuality and sexual healthcare services is higher.

Conclusions

The midwives' perspectives on sexual health, their level of knowledge, and the sexual health education they receive impact the quality of care they provide. Sexual and reproductive health should be emphasized within the scope of midwifery education.
Supplementation of Plant‐Based Freezing Extender With Cysteamine Preserves Quality Parameters and Fertility Potential of Buck Sperm During Cryopreservation Process
Authors: Mokhtari Mahdi , Khodaei‐Motlagh Mahdi , Yahyaei Mohammad , Masoudi Reza
Published: October 2024

Sperm cryopreservation in small ruminant is an efficient strategy to distribute spermatozoa for reproductive programmes, but this process reduces the fertility potential of frozen–thawed spermatozoa. The aim of the current research was to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of cysteamine (CYS) in soybean lecithin (SL)‐based medium on postthawed buck semen quality and fertility potential. Semen samples were collected from five bucks, twice a week, then diluted in the SL‐based extender containing different concentrations of CYS as follows: extender containing 0 mM (control, C0), 1 mM (C1), 2 mM (C2), 4 mM (C4) and 8 mM (C8) CYS. Motility characteristics, membrane integrity, abnormal morphology, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, viability, apoptotic‐like changes, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation, ROS concentration, pregnancy rate and kidding rate were evaluated after freeze–thaw process. In results, C1 resulted in greater (p ≤ 0.05) total motility, progressive motility, average path velocity, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity, viability, pregnancy rate and kidding rate compared to the other groups. Furthermore, supplementation of freezing medium with 1 mM of CYS presented lower (p ≤ 0.05) apoptotic‐like changes, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and ROS concentration compared to the other groups. On the other hand, C8 presented the least (p ≤ 0.05) total motility, progressive motility, average path velocity, membrane integrity, mitochondrial activity, acrosome integrity and viability as well as the highest (p ≤ 0.05) apoptotic‐like changes, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and ROS concentration compared to the other groups. Therefore, supplementation of freezing medium with 1 mM CYS could be a helpful strategy to protect buck's spermatozoa quality and fertility potential during cryopreservation process.
Attitudes toward statistics among business students: Do majors, mathematical background, sex, and field of secondary education matter?
Authors: Chu Patrick Kuok Kun
Published: October 2024

Statistics knowledge, literacy, and skills are vital to undergraduates' academic and professional careers. Students' attitudes toward statistics play a vital role in their understanding of the importance of statistics. Therefore, it is important to examine their attitude toward statistics. This study investigated the attitude of 153 business students toward statistics and the factors that affect this attitude using the Survey Attitudes Toward Statistics (SATS‐36) scale. It also investigated the relationship between attitudinal components and students' demographic and academic characteristics. Five components underlying students' attitudes toward statistics were identified using exploratory factor analysis. Further, a background in quantitative subjects and demographic characteristics was found to affect students' attitudes toward statistics. The results suggested that statistics should be taught in a more practical way to relate it to students' lives, and teachers must adopt active learning methods in which students work with data and real‐life examples.
THE IMPACT OF POST-WELD HEAT TREATMENT ON RE-WELDING IN SHIELDED METAL ARC WELDING JOINT ST42 STEEL
Authors: - Kiryanto , Firdhaus Ahmad , Budiarto Untung , S. Hadi Eko , Al Ihsan M. Haiqal
Published: October 2024

Re-welding is a technique used to repair welds that are deemed defective and in danger of causing harm. Post-weld heat treatment is a method for improving welding-induced residual stresses, microstructural changes, hardness, and toughness. This work investigated the influence of post-weld heat treatment on the mechanical characteristics of ST 42 steel re-welding utilizing the SMAW technique and E6013 filler. Four samples with varying degrees of rewelding and post-welding treatment were analyzed. Based on the result, re-welding using SMAW to the St42 steel material led to a 20-40% decrease in mechanical properties, with the most significant reduction observed in the modulus of elasticity after two re-welding cycles. Conversely, post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) applied to the St42 steel subjected to two re-welding processes resulted in a 6-20% increase in mechanical properties, notably a 20% increase in the modulus of elasticity. These findings underscore the effectiveness of PWHT in enhancing mechanical properties, particularly microstructure recovery, in materials that have undergone re-welding.