Journals
2026 EN
Lang Ashley · King Rachel A. · Pullen Jamie
+3 more
Summary Soil organic matter (SOM) is primarily derived from leaf and root inputs, but the relative contributions of each are difficult to study without the use of isotopic tracers. Furthermore, associations between trees and mycorrhizal fungi can influence the production and persistence of SOM. We quantified tree inputs and carbon and nitrogen content of three SOM fractions – free and occluded particulate organic matter (fPOM and oPOM, respectively), and mineral‐associated organic matter (MAOM) – in a tree common garden in Maryland, USA, where the trees and soil have distinct isotopic signatures due to prior use of the land as a cornfield. We found that stem basal area was not associated with concentrations of carbon (C) in any SOM pool but that fine root biomass was positively related to the proportion of tree‐derived MAOM‐C. POM was positively associated with leaf litter carbon : nitrogen ratio (C : N), but tree‐derived MAOM was not associated with fine root C : N. Tree mycorrhizal type did not influence the relative importance of leaf and root‐derived SOM. Our results indicate that leaf litter and fine roots have distinct roles on POM and MAOM formation, respectively, and that these effects are consistent across tree mycorrhizal associations in early stand development.
Journals
2026 EN
Wojcik Arthur · Belcram Harry · Rousselet Agnès
+16 more
Summary We used domestication as an in vivo replicated experiment to investigate how divergent selection has shaped the evolution of multivariate phenotypic spaces. We measured 11–57 qualitative and quantitative traits in 13 species, either unique or shared between species, and established a framework for cross‐species comparisons. Our results revealed significant convergence that translated into a cross‐species domestication syndrome. Most species exhibited a reduction of the multivariate phenotypic space during domestication. We brought evidence that Near‐Infrared spectra measured on leaves reflect phenotypic evolution unrelated to domestication, enabling its use as a control for sampling effects across species. Building on this, we developed a multivariate phenotypic divergence index (mPDI) to rank species by the extent of phenotypic divergence under domestication. We found a high disjunction of wild and domestic phenotypic spaces in all species. Neither the mPDI nor the relative size of wild vs domestic multivariate phenotypic spaces was influenced by the domestication timing or mating system. Lastly, we observed a progressive decoupling of trait correlations with increasing time since domestication. In addition to introducing a new index that can be applied for cross‐species comparisons, our study uncovers recurring patterns shared among species, pointing to general principles underlying plant domestication.
Journals
2026 EN
Hinwood Natasha S. · Casey MaireBrid · Dunlevy Colin G.
+7 more
ABSTRACT Introduction The relationship between obesity and chronic pain (CP) is complex. Obesity is associated with increased pain‐related disability, pain intensity, worse physical functioning, and poorer psychological well‐being. Aims The aim of this qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) was to systematically review and synthesize the qualitative literature reporting experiences of people living with obesity (PwO) and CP. Methods We registered (PROSPERO: CRD42023361391) and undertook a QES to answer the following question: “What are the first‐person experiences of people living with obesity and chronic pain?” We searched five databases on February 9, 2023 and February 8, 2024 to identify primary qualitative studies investigating the experience of PwO and CP. Two authors independently screened search results for eligibility, extracted data, assessed methodological quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP), and undertook a thematic synthesis of the included studies. Results We included 10 studies ( n = 153 participants) and identified eight findings under four main themes: (1) A Predominant Bio‐Mechanical Understanding of Pain; (2) Catch 22: Vicious Cycle of Pain and Obesity; (3) The Stigmas Associated With Pain and Obesity; and (4) Food as a Complex and Frustrating Pathway to Health. Conclusions The lived experiences of CP and obesity include complex interactions of pain beliefs, challenges relating to healthcare provision, pain‐associated and weight‐related stigmas, altered self‐image, self‐blame, and altered food habits in response to pain. Our QES enhances understanding of experiences of PwO and CP and highlights the need for improved strategies for healthcare professionals to address weight‐based stigma and provide holistic care for PwO and CP.
Journals
2026 EN
Anokye Reindolf · Duffy Moira · Looney Eibhlin
+15 more
ABSTRACT Background This scoping review identified existing outcome measurement instruments (OMIs) for weight and body composition in children ≤ 1 year of age and how they are used in clinical trials. This information will improve outcome selection in future trials. Methods We searched the EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO up to September 2023, previous reviews, and the TOPCHILD collaboration registry. Screening was conducted independently in duplicate. We included studies reporting trials including healthy, full‐term infants ≤ 1 year of age reporting at least one weight, weight gain, and/or body composition OMI. Study and OMI characteristics were synthesized narratively. Results Seventy‐two studies were included. Reported outcomes included weight ( n = 71), changes in weight ( n = 33), and body composition ( n = 10). Six OMIs were used to measure infant weight, with undefined ( n = 19) and electronic ( n = 15) scales being the most common. Results for weight were mostly expressed as z scores relative to a population reference ( n = 50). Five OMIs were used to assess infant weight gain, most frequently undefined weighing scales ( n = 8) and electronic scales ( n = 7), with results mostly expressed as changes in z scores relative to a population reference ( n = 10). Eight body composition OMIs were identified; calipers ( n = 5) and air displacement plethysmography ( n = 3) were most commonly used. Body composition was predominantly presented as fat mass (FM) and fat‐free mass (FFM) in kg ( n = 5). OMIs were mostly administered in person by researchers, clinicians, or healthcare practitioners. Conclusions Given the heterogeneity identified in this review, research is needed to select standardized, feasible, and reliable OMIs for infant anthropometric outcomes in trials.
Journals
2026 DE
MazellierLajarrige Catherine
Zusammenfassung Der Beitrag untersucht Formen und Wege des Kulturtransfers zwischen Frankreich und Österreich, bzw. Deutschland, im Bereich der Pantomime, insbesondere unter dem Blickwinkel der „Texttheatralität“ (Poschmann). Bei vielen deutschsprachigen Pantomimenautoren ist die Begegnung mit der Pariser Pantomime, die 1888 mit der Gründung des „Cercle Funambulesque“ ihre Wiedergeburt feiert, für Theorie und Praxis ausschlaggebend. Diese künstlerische Befruchtung wird sowohl in den theoretischen Ansätzen als auch in den praktischen Umsetzungen präzisiert, wobei anhand eines Beispiels, nämlich Levetzows Die beiden Pierrots , die „Theatralität“ der pantomimischen Texte im Hinblick auf ihre Nähe zum Epischen, ihr performatives Potenzial, ihre Materialität und Metatextualität analysiert wird.
Journals
2026 EN
Coyne Sheena · Byrne Aideen · Gill Amber
+9 more
Abstract Background Unsubstantiated antibiotic allergy labels affect between 8% and 25% of the population worldwide. Current risk stratification tools, derived from adult data, are not validated for children. A simplified, multi‐patient protocol with minimal exclusion criteria is required to tackle the scale of this public health issue. Methods Patients with possible antibiotic allergy were recruited from the Children's Health Ireland (CHI) allergy waiting list. Exclusion criteria were a serum sickness like reaction (SSLR), severe cutaneous adverse reaction (SCARs), anaphylaxis, or non‐allergic symptoms. No prior allergy testing was performed. Dosing was direct single observed dosing in dedicated mass delabelling clinics, followed by a two‐day home antibiotic course. Results Consenting patients ( n = 162) were seen over 6 clinics with gradually increasing clinic sizes (Range 18 to 62, average 23). One patient only was excluded based on the severity of their index event. Average age was 7 years, n = 90/162 (55.6%) were female. Most were avoiding amoxicillin, n = 137/162 (84.6%). Negative challenge rates were similar to previous studies, n = 150/162 (92.6%), 3 had immediate reactions and 9 delayed (all non‐severe). Patients retrospectively underwent risk stratification according to the 2024 EAACI position paper, high risk n = 38/162 (23.5%), intermediate risk n = 74/162 (45.7%) and low risk n = 50/162 (30.9%). Those deemed high risk were no more likely to have a positive challenge than those deemed low/intermediate risk ( n = 2/38, 5.3% vs. n = 10/124, 8.1%, p = .56). Conclusion Antibiotic allergy delabelling in pediatrics is low risk and can be done safely in high patient load without prior allergy testing. Current risk stratification tools are not suitable for pediatric‐specific models of care.
Journals
2026 EN
Bennett Tom · Lewis Hannah · Riley Catherine
+4 more
ABSTRACT Background Pediatric preassessment is recommended for all children undergoing general anesthesia. It has the potential to improve safety and quality outcomes for both the patient and the organization. Aims This study aimed to establish the proportion of children who underwent preassessment before general anesthesia, the format of that preassessment, and the impact of preassessment on outcomes such as on‐the‐day cancelation, and patient anxiety. Methods This multi‐center prospective observational cohort study outlines preassessment delivery in the UK and its effect on outcome. Invitation to participate was via Pediatric Anesthetic Trainee Research Network. Data collected included demographic data, details of the patient's preassessment, and their outcome. Results Data were verified from 96 hospitals on 6818 patients between 1 and 16 years old having elective procedures under general anesthetic. The proportion of children ≤ 16 years old who received preassessment was 60.1% (4082 children). There was a large variation in the delivery of preassessment with the majority being nurse‐led. The perioperative journey of most children proceeded as planned (6454 patients, 94.6% of cases). There was a significant difference in the proportion of children with perioperative anxiety between those who did (12.0%, n = 482) and did not (16.5%, n = 438) have a preassessment ( p < 0.001). Preassessment did not make a statistically significant difference to overall cancelation rates. The most common reasons for cancelation were intercurrent illness and anxiety. A greater proportion of procedures were delayed or canceled if anxiety was identified as a perioperative challenge: 20.8% ( n = 191) compared to 3.6% ( n = 210, p < 0.001). Conclusion These data suggest that improved outcomes could be achieved through a reduction in anxiety. A service offering screening calls in the days before surgery could prevent on‐the‐day cancelation due to intercurrent illness. The priorities for preassessment in children require further clarification and standardization nationally to maximize the potential benefits from services.
Journals
2026 EN
Reid J. Leighton · Velo Marcellin · AparicioVera Sebastián
+14 more
Wildfires threaten tropical rainforest conservation and restoration around the world, and they pose a particular risk to the unique species assemblages in eastern Madagascar. Following an intense period of wildfires in 2020–2022 that impacted 33% of 46 tropical forest restoration sites installed by the non‐profit organization Green Again Madagascar along Madagascar's central east coast, we compared fire intensity, fire severity, and native tree mortality in a subset of 11 experimental plantings to learn how tree planting choices impacted wildfire risk. Each restored site contained four 25 × 25 m treatment plots, which varied in tree planting size (81 vs. 625 m 2 ), density (123 vs. 1111 trees/ha), and species composition (fire‐vulnerable vs. fire‐resilient species planted on plot edges). Seventy‐five percent of 2772 trees were killed, with strong differences in mortality (41–100%) among 27 native species. The strongest treatment effect was species composition; plantings that included fire‐resilient tree species reduced overall mortality by 72%. Other tree planting choices (size, density, and position) had little or no impact on fire behavior or tree mortality. We conclude that wildfires impose a strong environmental filter on native Malagasy trees, selecting for species capable of resisting burning or resprouting following fire. Including these species in restoration plantings will increase the resilience of restored rainforests to wildfires but is unlikely to offer protection to the many endemic trees that are vulnerable to fire mortality.
Journals
2026 EN
Shalmani Kian Babaei · DiGennaro Catherine · Rahmandad Hazhir
+1 more
ABSTRACT From how public opinion responds to economic outcomes to how risk perception shapes social interactions during a pandemic, many important social processes involve the assimilation of information to form opinions and perceptions, which in turn guide individual and societal actions. While such perception delays are well recognized, empirically identifying them is nontrivial. We study this problem in the context of human responses to disease dynamics, mediated by public risk perception. Public risk perception changes through an information diffusion process with significant delays, where perception adjustment delay may differ depending on whether the risk is increasing or decreasing. Despite these complexities, most models assume either fixed‐delay structures or exponential structures with symmetric delay periods. First, using synthetic data (where ground truth is known), we show that incorrect delay structures and the assumption of symmetric delay periods can lead to biased and misleading estimates. We then explore alternative approaches to identify more appropriate delay structures that can overcome these challenges. Second, we apply these asymmetric delay structures to state‐level US COVID‐19 disease and mobility data to demonstrate how estimates of public sensitivity to mortality depend on the assumed delay structure. Our results provide evidence that during the pandemic, human risk perception adjusted with asymmetric delays to changing risk: people perceived rising risks more quickly than they perceived declining risks.
Journals
2026 EN
Taylor Rachel A. · McCarthy Catherine · Patel Virag
+4 more
ABSTRACT During the COVID‐19 pandemic, caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, many mathematical models and risk assessments have been created to inform policymakers on effective strategies for controlling the spread of the pathogen. These models were often developed rapidly for timely input to strategic decisions. It is prudent to evaluate the models created and learn from experience so that we can be adequately prepared for a future pandemic. One area of modeling developed during the COVID‐19 pandemic was for international travel and how to safely reopen borders and to which countries. We developed an importation risk model for estimating the risk of SARS‐CoV‐2 infectious travelers entering any airport and parameterized it for UK airports. We ran the model using prevalence estimates from August 2020 and found that 895 (CI: 834–958) infectious travelers would arrive in a single week from the 25 countries considered. We simulated health measures on arrival to assess the efficacy of self‐isolation, the policy at the time, in comparison to proposed alternatives. We found that the 14‐day self‐isolation is 78.0% effective (CI: 74.4–81.6), whereas a test at the airport plus an additional test 4 days later is 68.9% (CI: 64.9–73.0) effective, after accounting for 20% noncompliance. Rapidly implementing control measures for travelers from riskier countries is vital to protect public health. This methodology can be quickly updated to assess the impact of any further changes to international travel policy or disease occurrence. We assess whether our model results would be applicable for a future Disease X, the adaptability of our model, future work to ensure that the model is comprehensive, and the lessons learned from modeling during COVID‐19. In particular, we highlight the importance of building flexible, transparent, and adaptable models due to the speed at which policy or the epidemiological situation can change and for use in any future pandemic.