bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Microbial evolution—An under‐appreciated driver of soil carbon cycling
Authors: Abs Elsa , Chase Alexander B. , Manzoni Stefano , Ciais Philippe , Allison Steven D. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAlthough substantial advances in predicting the ecological impacts of global change have been made, predictions of the evolutionary impacts have lagged behind. In soil ecosystems, microbes act as the primary energetic drivers of carbon cycling; however, microbes are also capable of evolving on timescales comparable to rates of global change. Given the importance of soil ecosystems in global carbon cycling, we assess the potential impact of microbial evolution on carbon‐climate feedbacks in this system. We begin by reviewing the current state of knowledge concerning microbial evolution in response to global change and its specific effect on soil carbon dynamics. Through this integration, we synthesize a roadmap detailing how to integrate microbial evolution into ecosystem biogeochemical models. Specifically, we highlight the importance of microscale mechanistic soil carbon models, including choosing an appropriate evolutionary model (e.g., adaptive dynamics, quantitative genetics), validating model predictions with ‘omics’ and experimental data, scaling microbial adaptations to ecosystem level processes, and validating with ecosystem‐scale measurements. The proposed steps will require significant investment of scientific resources and might require 10–20 years to be fully implemented. However, through the application of multi‐scale integrated approaches, we will advance the integration of microbial evolution into predictive understanding of ecosystems, providing clarity on its role and impact within the broader context of environmental change.
Green deserts, but not always: A global synthesis of native woody species regeneration under tropical tree monocultures
Authors: Simões Laura H. P. , Guillemot Joannès , Ronquim Carlos C. , Weidlich Emanuela W. A. , Muys Bart , Fuza Matheus S. , Lima Renato A. F. , Brancalion Pedro H. S. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractTree monocultures constitute an increasing fraction of the global tree cover and are the dominant tree‐growing strategy of forest landscape restoration commitments. Their advantages to produce timber are well known, but their value for biodiversity is highly controversial and context dependent. Therefore, understanding whether, and in which conditions, they can harbor native species regeneration is crucial. Here, we conducted meta‐analyses based on a global survey of the literature and on a database created with local, unpublished studies throughout Brazil to evaluate the regeneration potential of native species under tree monocultures and the way management influences this regeneration. Native woody species regeneration under tree monocultures harbors a substantial fraction of the diversity (on average 40% and 68% in the global and Brazilian surveys, respectively) and abundance (on average 25% and 60% in the global and Brazilian surveys, respectively) of regeneration observed in natural forests. Plantations with longer rotation lengths, composed of native tree species, and located adjacent to forest remnants harbor more species. Pine plantations harbor more native individuals than eucalypt plantations, and the abundance of regenerating trees is higher in sites with higher mean temperatures. Species–area curves revealed that the number of woody species under pine and eucalypt plantations in Brazil is 606 and 598 species, respectively, over an aggregated sampled area of ca. 12 ha. We highlight that the understory of tree monocultures can harbor a considerable diversity of regenerating native species at the landscape and regional scales, but this diversity strongly depends on management. Long‐rotation length and favorable location are key factors for woody regeneration success under tropical tree monocultures. Therefore, tree monocultures can play a role in forest landscape restoration and conservation, but only if they are planned and managed for achieving this purpose.
High plasma interleukin‐6 level, but not IL‐6 gene variants, as a predictive marker for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in a Moroccan population
Authors: Tanouti Ikram‐Allah , Fellah Hassan , Haddaji Asmaa , Zerrad Chaimaa , Tahiri Mohamed , Badre Wafaa , Nfaoui Khaoula , Pineau Pascal , Benjelloun Soumaya , Ezzikouri Sayeh 
Published: April 2024

AbstractChronic inflammation triggered by hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) viruses elevates interleukin 6 (IL‐6) levels, activating pathways that cause liver damage and contribute to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. In this study, we assessed IL‐6 levels and explored the correlation between the rs1800795 and rs1800797 variants of the IL‐6 gene and the risk of developing HCC. We conducted a case–control study involving 314 participants. Among them, 157 were HCC patients (94 anti‐HCV, 22 HBsAg and 41 metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease [MASLD]) and 157 controls. Genotyping for IL‐6 rs1800795 and rs1800797 polymorphisms was performed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Additionally, plasma IL‐6 levels were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The IL‐6 levels were notably higher in patients compared to controls (p < .0001). Among HCC patients, those with MASLD exhibited higher plasma IL‐6 levels than those with HCV and HBV (p = .003). In male HCC patients, IL‐6 levels were significantly elevated compared to controls (p < .0001). Similarly, female patients showed significantly higher IL‐6 levels compared to female controls, though still lower than in male HCC patients (p = .023). However, no significant difference was observed in IL‐6 levels between male and female HCC patients (p = .129). Contrastingly, the genotype and allele distributions of the rs1800795 and rs1800797 polymorphisms in the IL‐6 gene displayed no association with HCC development (all p > .05). In Moroccan HCC patients, chronic liver inflammation is characterized by elevated levels of IL‐6, potentially playing a role in the progression of liver disease and tumourigenesis.
Laboratory assessment of antiphospholipid syndrome: Laboratory data
Authors: Kobylecki Camilla J. , Vedel‐Krogh Signe , Afzal Shoaib , Goetze Jens P. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractIntroductionThorough assessment of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) includes retesting of positive antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) tests after at least 12 weeks, and a full antiphospholipid antibody profile. To what extent this work‐up is done in clinical practice is unknown.MethodsData on 25 116 in‐ and out‐hospital patients tested for the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA), the aPL which most strongly correlates with thrombosis, was extracted from the laboratory information system of the only laboratory that performs LA tests in the Capital Region, Denmark. We estimated fraction of repeated tests, tests repeated within the recommended time span, and fraction with a full aPL profile.ResultsOut of 25 116 patients, 843 were positive for LA (3.3%), and 3948 results were inconclusive (16%). Only 51% (95% CI of the proportion: 48%–54%) (n = 431) of positive tests were repeated. The proportion of inconclusive LA test results increased from 13% (12%–15%) in 2009 to 20% (19%–22%) in 2020. Out of the positive tests repeated within the first year, only 60/353 (17%; 13%–21%) were repeated within 12–16 weeks; 177/353 (50%; 45%–55%) were re‐tested within the first 12 weeks of first positive test result. The proportion of patients with a full antiphospholipid antibody profile increased from 161/1978 (8%) in 2010 to 1041/1978 (43%) in 2020.ConclusionWe found several issues with the laboratory workup of APS. This indicates a need for increased awareness of comprehensive laboratory assessment of possible APS as well as a closer collaboration between the laboratory and clinicians.
A systematic review exploring healthcare professionals' perceptions of take‐home naloxone dispensing in acute care areas
Authors: Osinski Karen , Afseth Janyne 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAimsTo explore healthcare professionals' perceptions and experiences of take‐home naloxone initiatives in acute care settings to gain an understanding of issues facilitating or impeding dispensing.DesignSystematic literature review.Data SourcesCochrane, MEDLINE and CINAHL were searched from 15/03/2021 to 18/03/2021, with a follow‐up search performed via PubMed on 22/03/2021. The years 2011 to 2021 were included in the search.Review MethodsA systematic literature review focused on qualitative studies and quantitative survey designs. Synthesis without meta‐analysis was undertaken using a thematic analysis approach.ResultsSeven articles from the United States of America (5), Australia (1) and Canada (1) with 750 participants were included in the review. Results indicate ongoing stigma towards people who use drugs with preconceived moral concerns regarding take‐home naloxone. There was confusion regarding roles and responsibilities in take‐home naloxone dispensing and patient education. Similarly, there was a lack of clarity over logistical and financial issues.ConclusionTake‐home naloxone is a vital harm reduction initiative. However, barriers exist that prevent the optimum implementation of these initiatives.ImpactWhat is already known:
Deaths due to opioid overdose are a global health concern, with take‐home naloxone emerging as a key harm reduction scheme.
Globally, less than 10% of people who use drugs have access to treatment initiatives, including take‐home naloxone.
An optimum point of distribution of take‐home naloxone is post‐acute hospital care.

What this paper adds:
There is role confusion regarding responsibility for the provision of take‐home naloxone and patient education. This is exacerbated by inconsistent provision of training and education for healthcare professionals.
Logistical or financial concerns are common and moral issues are prevalent with some healthcare professionals questioning the ethics of providing take‐home naloxone.
Stigma towards people who use drugs remains evident in some acute care areas which may impact the use of this intervention.

Implications for practice/policy:
Further primary research should examine what training and education methods are effective in improving the distribution of take‐home naloxone in acute care.
Education should focus on reduction of stigma towards people who use drugs to improve the distribution of take‐home naloxone.
Standardized care guidelines may ensure interventions are offered equally and take‐home naloxone ‘champions’ could drive initiatives forward, with support from harm reduction specialists.

Reporting MethodThis has adhered to the PRISMA reporting guidelines for systematic reviews.Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.
Annual health checks for people with intellectual disabilities: An exploration of experiences, follow‐up and self‐management of health conditions
Authors: Cavanagh Dawn E. , Northway Ruth , Todd Stuart 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundLittle is known about how health issues identified at the annual health check (AHC) are followed up and addressed, how participants self‐manage their health in between AHCs, and what support they receive. This research aimed to explore this.MethodsPeople with intellectual disabilities (n = 12), and/or their supporters residing in Wales, were interviewed following their AHC and again at 6 and 11 months. A recurrent cross‐sectional thematic analysis was undertaken.ResultsFive main themes emerged from interview one: going for a health check, issues identified, and actions taken, supporting the self‐management of health, the personal context, and addressing health inequities. Four main themes emerged from follow‐up interviews: follow‐up, supporting the self‐management of health, the need for reasonably adjusted health services, and going for another health check.ConclusionA broader system of support around the AHC is required if people are to achieve or maintain the best possible health.
Blood pressure and the hypertension care cascade in The Gambia: Findings from a nationwide survey
Authors: Jobe Modou , Mactaggart Islay , Hydara Abba , Kim Min J. , Bell Suzannah , Kotanmi Gaetan Brezesky , Badjie Omar , Prentice Andrew M. , Burton Matthew J. 
Published: April 2024

AbstractCommunity treatment of hypertension in sub‐Saharan Africa is hampered by gaps at several stages of the care cascade. We compared blood pressure (BP) levels (systolic, diastolic and pulse pressures) in four groups of participants by hypertension and treatment status. We conducted a nationally representative survey of adults 35 years and older using a multistage sampling strategy based on the 2013 Gambia Population and Housing Census. The BP measurements were taken in triplicate 5 min apart, and the average of the last two measurements was used for analysis. Systolic and diastolic BP levels and pulse pressure were compared by hypertension status using mean and 95% confidence intervals (CI). 53.1% of the sample were normotensive with mean systolic BP (SBP) of 119.2 mmHg (95% CI, 118.7–119.6) and diastolic BP (DBP) of 78.1 mmHg (77.8–78.3). Among individuals with hypertension, mean SBP was 148.7 mmHg (147.7–149.7) among those unaware of their hypertension, 152.2 mmHg (151.0–153.5) among treated individuals and was highest in untreated individuals at 159.3 mmHg (157.3–161.2). The findings were similar for DBP levels, being 93.9 mmHg (93.4–94.4) among the unaware, 95.1 mmHg (94.4–95.8) among the treated and highest at 99.1 mmHg (98.1–100.2) in untreated participants. SBP and DBP were higher in men, and SBP was as expected higher in those aged ≥55 years. BP level was similar in urban and rural areas. Our data shows high BP levels among participants with hypertension including those receiving treatment. Efforts to reduce the health burden of hypertension will require inputs at all levels of the care cascade.
A comparative study on dietary diversity and gut microbial diversity in children with autism spectrum disorder, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, their neurotypical siblings, and non‐related neurotypical volunteers: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kurokawa Shunya , Nomura Kensuke , Sanada Kenji , Miyaho Katsuma , Ishii Chiharu , Fukuda Shinji , Iwamoto Chiaki , Naraoka Minori , Yoneda Shintaro , Imafuku Masahiro , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Saito Yoshimasa , Mimura Masaru , Kishimoto Taishiro 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundPrevious research has shown a significant link between gut microbiota in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, much remains unknown because of the heterogeneity of disorders and the potential confounders such as dietary patterns and control group variations.MethodsChildren aged 6–12 years who had been clinically diagnosed with ASD and/or ADHD, their unaffected neurotypical siblings, and non‐related neurotypical volunteers were recruited cross‐sectionally. The ASD diagnosis was confirmed using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule‐2 (ADOS‐2) in all patients, including those with ADHD. Standardized DNA extraction and sequencing methods were used to compare gut microbial alpha‐diversity among the groups. Dietary diversity was calculated from a standardized dietary questionnaire form. We compared the difference in gut microbiome between patients with ASD and/or ADHD with neurotypical siblings and non‐related neurotypical controls.ResultsNinety‐eight subjects were included in the study (18 with ASD, 19 with ADHD, 20 with both ASD and ADHD, 13 neurotypical siblings, and 28 non‐related neurotypical controls). The alpha‐diversity indices, such as Chao 1 and Shannon index, showed a significant difference between the groups in a Linear mixed‐effect model (F(4, 93) = 4.539, p = .02), (F(4, 93) = 3.185, p = .017), respectively. In a post‐hoc pairwise comparison, patients with ASD had lower alpha‐diversity compared with non‐related controls after Bonferroni correction. Dietary diversity shown in Shannon index did not differ among the groups (F(4, 84) = 1.494, p = .211).ConclusionsOur study indicates disorder‐specific microbiome differences in patients with ASD. In future research on gut microbiota in neurodevelopmental disorders, it is necessary to consider the impact of ASD and ADHD co‐occurrence, and strictly control for background information such as diet, to elucidate the gut–microbiota interaction in ASD and ADHD for exploring the potential of therapeutic interventions.
Influence of disease course and comprehensive management on blood glucose level in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wu Xiaozhi , Wang Rui , Chen Jiahui , Feng Guoshuang , Wang Xinyu , Bai Robin N , Liang Xuejun , Cao Bingyan , Gong Chunxiu , Li Wenjing , Sang Yanmei , Wang Xumei , Wu Di 
Published: April 2024

AbstractAims/IntroductionThe aim of the present study was to evaluate the status of glycemic control, and assess the effects of the disease course and comprehensive management measures on the blood glucose level in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus.Materials and MethodsThe study collected the clinical data of type 2 diabetes patients in Beijing Children's Hospital from January 2015 to September 2020. Patients were grouped based on the disease course to compare their glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level, islet β‐cell function, insulin resistance and comprehensive management measures.ResultsOf the 170 participants, the median disease course was 2.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 1.0–4.0 years). The baseline HbA1c was 11.2% (IQR 9.2–12.4%). According to the grouping by the disease course, the median HbA1c was the lowest (5.7% [IQR 5.3–6.1%]) in the half‐year course group and the highest in the 4‐year course group (9.0 [IQR 6.8%–11.3%]). Compared with the group with a disease duration <2 years, patients in the >4 years group had a lower proportion of patients with HbA1c <7% (29.2% vs 66.2%), a lower homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function, and a lower proportion with a controlled diet, moderate‐intensity exercise, regular follow up and no drug treatment. We deemed HbA1c as the dependent variable, and found that disease duration, homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function at follow up, continuous moderate‐intensity exercise, regular review and treatment regimen were significant influencing factors for glycemic control.ConclusionsChildren and adolescents with type 2 diabetes and a prolonged disease course showed poor glycemic control and decreased islet β‐cell function. A good lifestyle, especially moderate‐intensity exercise, can help such cases better control their blood glucose level.
Eating behaviors and incidence of type 2 diabetes in Japanese people: The population‐based Panasonic cohort study 15
Authors: Toyokuni Ema , Okada Hiroshi , Hamaguchi Masahide , Nishioka Norihiro , Tateyama Yukiko , Shimamoto Tomonari , Kurogi Kazushiro , Murata Hiroaki , Ito Masato , Iwami Taku , Fukui Michiaki 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACTAim/IntroductionThis historical cohort study sought to research the relationship between eating behaviors and the incidence of type 2 diabetes in a large, long‐term cohort of Japanese subjects.Materials and MethodsPanasonic Corporation employees who had no history of diabetes and attended yearly health surveys between 2008 and 2018 were included in this study. The main outcome measure was diabetes onset.ResultsThis study included 128,594 participants and 6,729 participants who developed type 2 diabetes in the study period. Skipping breakfast, fast eating, snacking after dinner, and eating meals before sleeping were linked with the risk of the incidence of type 2 diabetes. In individuals with a BMI < 25 kg/m2, fast eating (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.37–1.90), and eating meals before sleeping (HR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.02–1.17) were likewise associated with an increased risk of incident type 2 diabetes. Nevertheless, fast eating (HR: 1.08, 95% CI: 0.89–1.30) and meals before sleeping (HR: 0.94, 95% CI: 0.88–1.01) were not related to the occurrence of type 2 diabetes in individuals with a BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (P value for interaction = 0.0007 [fast eating] and 0.007 [meals before sleeping], respectively). No significant interaction effect between sex and eating behavior was found.ConclusionsWith respect to Japanese people, especially in people with a BMI < 25 kg/m2, eating behaviors may be a risk factor for the occurrence of type 2 diabetes.
Validation of a scoring algorithm for the clinician‐reported outcome tool ‘prurigo activity and severity (PAS)’ based on clinical studies of dupilumab in adults with prurigo Nodularis
Authors: Zeidler Claudia , Stander Sonja , Rhoten Stephanie , Wratten Samantha , Zhang Dian , Msihid Jerome , Brookes Ella , Thomas Ryan , Bahloul Donia 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundPrurigo nodularis (PN) also known as chronic prurigo, is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by intensely itchy nodules/lesions which occur due to intensive scratching. PN management is, in part, based on clinician evaluations of PN lesions, which can be supported by clinician‐reported outcomes (ClinRO) such as the Prurigo Activity and Severity (PAS) instrument. A 5‐item version of PAS was included in recent phase‐3 dupilumab PN trials (PRIME [NCT04183335]/PRIME2 [NCT04202679]). The PAS score was derived using the unweighted sum of 3‐items of the 5‐item PAS (range, 0–11; higher score indicates worse activity and severity): Item 2 (number of lesions), Item 5a (percentage of lesions with excoriations/crusts) and Item 5b (percentage of healed lesions) for use in clinical practice and for communication of treatment benefit to physicians.ObjectivesTo evaluate the measurement properties of PAS score and derive within‐patient (responder definition) and between‐group improvement thresholds for interpreting changes in PAS score in patients with PN.MethodsThe data source was the pooled treatment group, intention‐to‐treat (ITT) data from the phase‐3 PRIME (NCT04183335) and PRIME2 (NCT04202679) studies evaluating the efficacy of dupilumab in adult patients with PN with ≥20 nodules and severe itch uncontrolled with topical therapies. PAS score reliability, validity and sensitivity to change were evaluated, and anchor‐ and distribution‐based methods were applied to derive meaningful change thresholds.ResultsThe pooled ITT population included 311 patients (mean age 49.5 years, 65.3% female). Adequate to good psychometric properties were demonstrated for PAS score. The within‐patient meaningful improvement threshold was estimated as 3.0 points (absolute change) and 37% (per cent change). A 1.7‐point (absolute change) and 20% (per cent change) improvement were estimated to reflect a between‐group meaningful change in PAS score.ConclusionsPAS score is a simple, clinically relevant indicator of PN lesion activity and severity supported by suitable psychometric performance.