bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is intravenous valproate more efficacious than oral valproate for inpatients with bipolar I disorder with a manic or depressive episode and concomitant symptoms of opposite polarity?
Authors: Cuomo Alessandro , Barillà Giovanni , Cattolico Matteo , Carmellini Pietro , Spiti Alessandro , Pozza Andrea , Fagiolini Andrea
Published: November 2023

Intro

Valproic acid (VPA) is a commonly prescribed mood stabilizer, available in both oral (OS) and intravenous (IV) formulations. However, few studies have compared their safety and efficacy. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of and IV‐VPA in patients with Bipolar Disorder.

Methods

Fifty patients with Bipolar Disorder experiencing a manic or depressive episode, with concomitant symptoms of opposite polarity, admitted to our inpatient unit and treated with IV‐VPA were included in a retrospective, single‐centre, non‐randomized, open‐label, parallel‐group comparative study. Fifty patients experiencing a manic or depressive episode, with concomitant symptoms of opposite polarity, treated with oral‐VPA and selected among those who were admitted to the inpatient unit prior to the introduction of IV‐VPA in our clinical practice, were included as the control group (matched based on age, gender and clinical scales score at baseline). The Clinical Global Impression (CGI), Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Montgomery‐Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM‐A) scores were recorded at baseline, after 3 days of treatment and discharge from the inpatient unit. Patients were asked to respond on the basis of the symptoms present on the day the scale was administered. Response rate and the presence of adverse effects were also recorded.

Results

Both patients treated with oral and IV‐VPA demonstrated significant improvements in all psychometric scales (p < 0.001). However, the IV group exhibited superior efficacy, with significantly lower scores on the CGI, YMRS, MADRS and HAM‐A scales on Day 3 and at discharge from the inpatient unit. The IV‐VPA treatment showed higher response rates on all psychometric scales, and no adverse effects were reported in either group.

Conclusion

This retrospective study supports the use of IV‐VPA as a more efficacious treatment option for patients with Bipolar Disorder, particularly in acute settings where rapid symptom improvement is crucial. Both oral and IV‐VPA were found to be safe and well‐tolerated.
Teachers' proactive behaviour: Interactions with job characteristics and professional competence in a longitudinal study
Authors: Jörg Verena , Hartmann Ulrike , Philipp Anja , Kunter Mareike
Published: November 2023

Background

In times of accelerating changes, teachers who proactively engage in activities towards school improvement and innovation are increasingly needed. Still, studies on factors that affect teachers' proactive behaviour are rare.

Aims

Integrating previous research on proactive behaviour within the Job Demand–Resources (JD‐R) Model, this paper investigates how job characteristics (time pressure, bureaucratic structures, participative climate, personal initiative of the team) and aspects of teachers' professional competence (self‐efficacy, self‐regulation skills and knowledge) contribute to and interact with their proactive behaviour.

Sample

A total of 130 German secondary school teachers (M(SD)age = 44.05 (11.36), 65% female) participated in this study.

Methods

We employed a full two‐wave panel design, with measurement points 5 months apart. The data were analysed with (moderated) single indicator modelling and a cross‐lagged panel model.

Results

While teachers' self‐efficacy in implementing change and self‐regulation skills predicted their concurrent proactive behaviour, job characteristics and teachers' knowledge had no such cross‐sectional effects. In addition, we found an interaction effect of time pressure and teachers' self‐efficacy on proactive behaviour. Including the second measurement point, data indicated no cross‐lagged effects of the job and personal factors on proactive behaviour. However, cross‐lagged analysis revealed that teachers' proactive behaviour predicted their later self‐efficacy in implementing change and the time pressure they perceive.

Conclusions

Examining both cross‐sectional and longitudinal effects, this study highlights the importance of measurements over time when analysing factors that influence teachers' proactive behaviour: While aspects of professional competence appear to be trainable concurrent resources, time pressure can limit their effect. Finally, cross‐lagged effects of teachers' proactive behaviour on their later self‐efficacy and time pressure appear as influential in the long run.
Genetic defects of gamma‐secretase genes in a multiple myeloma patient with high and dysregulated BCMA surface density: A case report
Authors: Cattaneo Irene , Valgardsdottir Rut , Cavagna Roberta , Spinelli Orietta , Bartoletti‐Stella Anna , Capellari Sabina , Galli Monica , Golay Josée
Published: November 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) cells from 1 out of 20 patient expressed high basal levels of membrane B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA, TNFRSF17, CD269), which was not upregulated by gamma‐secretase inhibitor, suggesting a defective BCMA shedding by gamma‐secretase. Genetic analyses of the patient's bone marrow DNA showed no mutations within the BCMA coding region, but rather partial deletion of PSEN1 and amplification of PSEN2, which encode alternative catalytic units of gamma‐secretase. Altogether the data suggest that pt#12 MM cells express high and dysregulated BCMA with no shedding, due to genetic alterations of one or more gamma‐secretase subunits.
Development, validation, and accuracy of ORCHESTRA emotional exhaustion screening questionnaire among healthcare workers during COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Gan Rick Kye , Arcos González Pedro , Fernandez‐Tardon Guillermo , Zerbo Alexandre , Calota Violeta Claudia , Klöslová Zuzana , Otelea Marina Ruxandra , Fabiánová Eleonóra , Rodriguez‐Suarez Marta‐Maria , Tardon Adonina
Published: November 2023

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges, particularly for healthcare workers (HCWs). The prolonged struggles exposed the HCWs to a variety of stressors, potentially leading to burnout. Emotional exhaustion is widely recognized as the core component of burnout. This research aims to conceptualize and develop an emotional exhaustion screening questionnaire through literature review, validation, and accuracy testing.

Method

A literature review of questionnaires and extraction of items on emotional exhaustion were performed in June 2022. We proceed with the face validity of the items by experts. The items with good content validity ratio and index were selected and reworded to suit the context of HCWs working during the COVID‐19 pandemic. A pilot test of the questionnaire was done in the Central University Hospital of Asturias (HUCA) from October to December 2022 with a sample of 148 HCWs from the ORCHESTRA cohort to determine its reliability, convergent validity, and accuracy.

Results

Our literature review identified 15 validated questionnaires. After exclusion, 32 items were sent for content validation by experts, yielding five final items that proceeded with the pilot test. Resulting in a Cronbach's alpha‐coefficient of .83 for the scale and .78 for dichotomous responses, demonstrating good internal consistency and convergent validity. The result of our accuracy test yielded sensitivity (90.6%) and specificity (91.6%) for the OEEQ scale; and sensitivity (88.7%) and specificity (89.5%) for OEEQ dichotomous responses.

Conclusion

This study developed and validated the ORCHESTRA Emotional Exhaustion Questionnaire, demonstrating the questionnaire's clarity, relevance, and comprehensibility in screening emotional exhaustion among HCWs.
T‐cell receptor sequencing reveals hepatocellular carcinoma immune characteristics according to Barcelona Clinic liver cancer stages within liver tissue and peripheral blood
Authors: Li Rui , Wang Junxiao , Li Xiubin , Liang Yining , Jiang Yiyun , Zhang Yuwei , Xu Pengfei , Deng Ling , Wang Zhe , Sun Tao , Wu Jian , Xie Hui , Wang Yijin
Published: November 2023

Analysis of T‐cell receptor (TCR) repertoires in different stages of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) might help to elucidate its pathogenesis and progression. This study aimed to investigate TCR profiles in liver biopsies and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in different Barcelona Clinic liver cancer (BCLC) stages of HCC. Ten patients in early stage (BCLC_A), 10 patients in middle stage (BCLC_B), and 10 patients in late stage (BCLC_C) cancer were prospectively enrolled. The liver tumor tissues, adjacent tissues, and PBMCs of each patient were collected and examined by TCR β sequencing. Based on the ImMunoGeneTics (IMGT) database, we aligned the V, D, J, and C gene segments and identified the frequency of CDR3 sequences and amino acids sequence. Diversity of TCR in PBMCs was higher than in both tumor tissues and adjacent tissues, regardless of BCLC stage and postoperative recurrence. TCR clonality was increased in T cells from peripheral blood in advanced HCC, compared with the early and middle stages. No statistical differences were observed between different BCLC stages, either in tumors or adjacent tissues. TCR clonality revealed no significant difference between recurrent tumor and non‐recurrent tumor, therefore PBMCs was better to be representative of TCR characteristics in different stages of HCC compared to tumor tissues. Clonal expansion of T cells was associated with low risk of recurrence in HCC patients.
Balancing Rotation Minimizing Frames with Additional Objectives
Authors: Mossman C. , Bartels R. H. , Samavati F. F.
Published: November 2023

When moving along 3D curves, one may require local coordinate frames for visited points, such as for animating virtual cameras, controlling robotic motion, or constructing sweep surfaces. Often, consecutive coordinate frames should be similar, avoiding sharp twists. Previous work achieved this goal by using various methods to approximate rotation minimizing frames (RMFs) with respect to a curve's tangent. In this work, we use Householder transformations to construct preliminary tangent‐aligned coordinate frames and then optimize these initial frames under the constraint that they remain tangent‐aligned. This optimization minimizes the weighted sum of squared distances between selected vectors within the new frames and fixed vectors outside them (such as the axes of previous frames). By selecting different vectors for this objective function, we reproduce existing RMF approximation methods and modify them to consider additional objectives beyond rotation minimization. We also provide some example computer graphics use cases for this new frame tracking.
Enhanced approach of multilabel learning for the Arabic aspect category detection of the hotel reviews
Authors: Ameur Asma , Hamdi Sana , Yahia Sadok Ben
Published: November 2023

In many fields, like aspect category detection (ACD) in aspect‐based sentiment analysis, it is necessary to label each instance with more than one label at the same time. This study tackles the multilabel classification problem in the ACD task for the Arabic language. For this purpose, we used Arabic hotel reviews from the SemEval‐2016 dataset, comprising 13,113 annotated tuples provided for training (10,509) and testing (2,604). To extract valuable information, we first propose specific data preprocessing. Then, we suggest using the dynamic weighted loss function and a data augmentation method to fix the problem with this dataset's imbalance. Using two possible approaches, we develop new ways to find different categories of things in a review sentence. The first is based on classifier chains using machine learning models. The second is based on transfer learning using pretrained AraBERT fine‐tuning for contextual representation. Our findings show that both approaches outperformed the related works for ACD on the Arabic SemEval‐2016. Moreover, we observed that AraBERT fine‐tuning performed much better and achieved a promising ‐score of .
Analysing the impact of paper grammage and pulp blend on electrophotographic printing systems
Authors: Sonmez Sinan , Engin Merve , Li Kecheng , Salam Abdus
Published: November 2023

The effect of fibre length and grammage on the electrophotographic digital printing process was investigated in this study. While integral optical density values on handsheets have shown no significant change, unprinted handsheets have shown an increasing change as short fibre content has increased. Because of structural changes in the paper surface, the measured results for print chroma, brightness, contrast, and delta gloss differed between paper groups. This research confirmed that these changes have nothing to do with grammage or fibre length content. Regardless of the fibre length ratios, significant increases in tone values of ink, were accompanied by a decrease in the grammage of the handsheets among the grammage groups provided. The specimen grammage affected the universal colour diagrams, but not the fibre length. The discrepancies in all of these printing outcomes were thought to be caused by the random distribution of fibres and the distances between them on the paper's surface.
Seizure course of PCDH19 clustering epilepsy in female children: A multicentre cohort study in China
Authors: Chen Yi , Liu Aijie , Zhang Xiaoli , Ma Xiuwei , Sun Dan , Tian Xiaojuan , Wu Wenjuan , Zeng Qi , Jiang Yuwu , Zhang Yuehua
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the seizure course of PCDH19 clustering epilepsy (PCDH19‐CE) in a cohort of female children in China.

Method

This ambidirectional cohort study examined 113 female patients with PCDH19‐CE through multicentre collaboration. Prognostic factors for seizure freedom were evaluated by multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results

The median seizure course period from seizure onset was 6 years 6 months. Of 113 patients, 78% and 56% experienced seizure freedom for at least 1 year and at least 2 years respectively. In patients younger than 5 years (n = 30), 5 to 10 years (n = 52), and older than 10 years (n = 31), 57%, 81%, and 94% experienced at least 1 year of seizure freedom, and 32%, 52%, and 84% experienced at least 2 years of seizure freedom, respectively. However, 58% (65 out of 113) relapsed at least once after more than 1 year of seizure freedom without trigger exposure (40%) or because of common triggers, including fever (43%) and antiseizure medication (ASM) reduction (29%). There was an 84% risk of seizure relapse after ASM reduction attempts. The likelihood of seizure freedom decreased with early age at seizure onset and developmental delay.

Interpretation

Patients with PCDH19‐CE exhibit increasing seizure freedom with age, but there is a risk of relapse. ASM reduction in children younger than 10 years old requires caution. Patients with early seizure onset and developmental delay have a reduced chance of seizure freedom.

What this paper adds

The seizure freedom rate in PCDH19 clustering epilepsy gradually increases with age.

The disease course is characterized by relapsing–remitting seizures.

Antiseizure medication reduction requires caution for patients younger than 10 years of age.

Patients with early seizure onset and developmental delay are less likely to achieve seizure freedom.
The real side of stock market exuberance: bubbles, output and productivity at the industry level
Authors: Queirós Francisco
Published: November 2023

There has been a growing interest in the theory of rational bubbles. Recent theories predict that bubbles are expansionary, but differ in the underlying mechanisms. This paper provides empirical evidence that helps us to assess different theories, and documents four main findings: stock market overvaluation is associated with (i) faster output and input growth, (ii) declining total factor productivity (TFP) growth, (iii) a greater contribution of labour and a declining contribution of TFP for output growth, (iv) an increase in the number of firms. Overall, these findings suggest that bubbly expansions are driven by increased factor accumulation (in particular labour), and not from higher productivity growth.
Theta oscillatory power decreases in humans are associated with spatial learning in a virtual water maze task
Authors: Thornberry Conor , Caffrey Michelle , Commins Sean
Published: November 2023

Theta oscillations (4–8 Hz) in humans play a role in navigation processes, including spatial encoding, retrieval and sensorimotor integration. Increased theta power at frontal and parietal midline regions is known to contribute to successful navigation. However, the dynamics of cortical theta and its role in spatial learning are not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate theta oscillations via electroencephalogram (EEG) during spatial learning in a virtual water maze. Participants were separated into a learning group (n = 25) who learned the location of a hidden goal across 12 trials, or a time‐matched non‐learning group (n = 25) who were required to simply navigate the same arena, but without a goal. We compared all trials, at two phases of learning, the trial start and the goal approach. We also compared the first six trials with the last six trials within‐groups. The learning group showed reduced low‐frequency theta power at the frontal and parietal midline during the start phase and largely reduced theta combined with a short increase at both midlines during the goal‐approach phase. These patterns were not found in the non‐learning group, who instead displayed extensive increases in low‐frequency oscillations at both regions during the trial start and at the parietal midline during goal approach. Our results support the theory that theta plays a crucial role in spatial encoding during exploration, as opposed to sensorimotor integration. We suggest our findings provide evidence for a link between learning and a reduction of theta oscillations in humans.
How can white parents raise anti‐racist children? Introducing the routes to effective anti‐racist parenting (REAP) model
Authors: Belizaire Shequanna , Powers Margaret , Mekawi Yara
Published: November 2023

In response to highly publicized instances of overt racial injustice, there has been a recent resurgence of interest and commitment to identifying processes through which anti‐racist behaviors develop among White individuals. One particularly important context in which anti‐racist behaviors can develop is within families and as a result of childrearing. Theories of anti‐racism typically neglect the role of families and family science research typically neglects a focus on anti‐racist parenting outcomes. To further research and applied work on fostering anti‐racism within White families, this paper introduces a new integrative model called routes to effective anti‐racist parenting (REAP). The model draws on theories from various fields, including family science and social psychology, and uses a metaphor of nurturing a plant to explain the nuanced, multi‐faceted approaches to anti‐racist parenting. The model incorporates factors related to the “pot” (i.e., fundamental values and structure necessary to contain more specific anti‐racist skills and behaviors), “soil” (i.e., characteristics that define anti‐racist commitment), “seeds” (i.e., direct transmission of anti‐racism skills), and “environment” (i.e., influential external factors). Finally, we describe the intended benefits that can be reaped from this intentional approach to anti‐racist parenting. The REAP model contributes to the family science literature by providing an empirically grounded theoretical model describing the roles that parents can play in children's anti‐racist development.
Market power and systematic risk
Authors: Hollstein Fabian , Prokopczuk Marcel , Würsig Christoph Matthias
Published: November 2023

We examine the impact of product market competition on firms' systematic risk. Using a measure of total product market similarity, we document a strong negative relationship between market power and market betas. The effect more than triples in the most recent period of low competition. Anticompetitive mergers result in a significant reduction in market betas. Firms facing less competition seem to be partially insulated from systematic discount‐rate shocks. Lower equity costs therefore imply that market power is partly self‐perpetuating.
Variable influence of photosynthetic thermal acclimation on future carbon uptake in Australian wooded ecosystems under climate change
Authors: Bennett Alison C. , Knauer Jürgen , Bennett Lauren T. , Haverd Vanessa , Arndt Stefan K.
Published: November 2023

Climate change will impact gross primary productivity (GPP), net primary productivity (NPP), and carbon storage in wooded ecosystems. The extent of change will be influenced by thermal acclimation of photosynthesis—the ability of plants to adjust net photosynthetic rates in response to growth temperatures—yet regional differences in acclimation effects among wooded ecosystems is currently unknown. We examined the effects of changing climate on 17 Australian wooded ecosystems with and without the effects of thermal acclimation of C3 photosynthesis. Ecosystems were drawn from five ecoregions (tropical savanna, tropical forest, Mediterranean woodlands, temperate woodlands, and temperate forests) that span Australia's climatic range. We used the CABLE‐POP land surface model adapted with thermal acclimation functions and forced with HadGEM2‐ES climate projections from RCP8.5. For each site and ecoregion we examined (a) effects of climate change on GPP, NPP, and live tree carbon storage; and (b) impacts of thermal acclimation of photosynthesis on simulated changes. Between the end of the historical (1976–2005) and projected (2070–2099) periods simulated annual carbon uptake increased in the majority of ecosystems by 26.1%–63.3% for GPP and 15%–61.5% for NPP. Thermal acclimation of photosynthesis further increased GPP and NPP in tropical savannas by 27.2% and 22.4% and by 11% and 10.1% in tropical forests with positive effects concentrated in the wet season (tropical savannas) and the warmer months (tropical forests). We predicted minimal effects of thermal acclimation of photosynthesis on GPP, NPP, and carbon storage in Mediterranean woodlands, temperate woodlands, and temperate forests. Overall, positive effects were strongly enhanced by increasing CO2 concentrations under RCP8.5. We conclude that the direct effects of climate change will enhance carbon uptake and storage in Australian wooded ecosystems (likely due to CO2 enrichment) and that benefits of thermal acclimation of photosynthesis will be restricted to tropical ecoregions.
Effect of conventional hemodialysis on the apixaban plasma concentration
Authors: Poel Tim , de Rouw Nikki , Péquériaux Nathalie C. V. , van de Kerkhof Daan , Windsant Annemieke M.A. Vermeulen , van Marum Rob J. , Kerckhoffs Angele P. M.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Apixaban is a factor Xa inhibitor used in patients undergoing hemodialysis treatment. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of hemodialysis on apixaban plasma concentrations.

Methods

This observational study is on patients treated with apixaban 2.5 mg twice daily on conventional hemodialysis with standard low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) anticoagulation (nadroparin 3800–7600 IU). Plasma blood samples were collected before starting dialysis (t1), 2 h after starting dialysis (t2), and directly after dialysis (t3). Apixaban concentration was measured before and after dialysis. Anti‐Xa activity was measured for all three samples.

Results

A significant difference was observed between the apixaban concentration before and after dialysis (mean before dialysis 141.03 ng/mL; mean after dialysis 102.71 ng/mL; p = 0.003). Nonetheless, both apixaban plasma concentrations and anti‐Xa levels remained within the reference range. Anti‐Xa levels had a strong correlation with the apixaban concentrations (r = 0.935, p = 0.000). Thus, anti‐Xa activity might be used as a surrogate for apixaban plasma concentration.

Conclusion

There seems to be no need for dose adjustments of apixaban; co‐administration of LMWH next to apixaban might also be unnecessary.
Optimizing tissue stewardship in non‐small cell lung cancer to support molecular characterization and treatment selection: statement from a working group of thoracic pathologists
Authors: Kerr Keith M , Bubendorf Lukas , Lopez‐Rios Fernando , Khalil Farah , Roy‐Chowdhuri Sinchita , Joubert Philippe , Hartmann Arndt , Guerini‐Rocco Elena , Yatabe Yasushi , Hofman Paul , Cooper Wendy A , Dacic Sanja
Published: November 2023

Many patients with non‐small cell lung cancer do not receive guideline‐recommended, biomarker‐directed therapy, despite the potential for improved clinical outcomes. Access to timely, accurate, and comprehensive molecular profiling, including targetable protein overexpression, is essential to allow fully informed treatment decisions to be taken. In turn, this requires optimal tissue management to protect and maximize the use of this precious finite resource. Here, a group of leading thoracic pathologists recommend factors to consider for optimal tissue management. Starting from when lung cancer is first suspected, keeping predictive biomarker testing in the front of the mind should drive the development of practices and procedures that conserve tissue appropriately to support molecular characterization and treatment selection.
Patriarchal bargains in short‐term women's migration from Bangladesh
Authors: Wu Joyce , Kilby Patrick , Rashid Syeda Rozana , Sarker Noor Mohammad
Published: November 2023

This paper looks at the migration of women from Bangladesh to the Middle East as short‐term migrants, mainly for work in the domestic care sector as domestic workers, housekeepers, nannies, cooks, etc. This group accounts for about 15 per cent of the total short‐term migration cohort. They face particular challenges around not only the precarity of their employment but also in navigating a series of patriarchal norms in both Bangladesh and the destination countries in the Middle East. The paper will build on the work of Deniz Kandiyoti and her seminal work on patriarchal bargains. This paper will explore the challenges women face in migrating to the Middle East: in their decision to migrate, their experiences abroad, and on return and reintegration into Bangladesh society and their home life, and how these are determined by a series of patriarchal bargains both in Bangladesh and the destination country.
Intratracheal administration of cross‐linked water‐soluble acrylic acid polymer is associated with inducible bronchi‐related lymphoid tissue formation and allergic inflammation
Authors: Kido Takamasa , Sugaya Chiemi , Hano Hiroshi , Yanagisawa Hiroyuki , Suka Machi
Published: November 2023

In a Japanese chemical factory, lung diseases such as pneumoconiosis have been reported among workers handling cross‐linked water‐soluble acrylic acid polymers (CWAAP). Our previous study reported that a single intratracheal administration of CWAAP induces acute inflammation and fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the effects of multiple intratracheal administrations of CWAAP on inflammatory responses and pulmonary fibrosis along with inducible bronchus‐associated lymphoid tissues (iBALT) formation, which is involved in allergic inflammation. Male F344 rats (190–200 g) received single or multiple intratracheal administrations of phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) or CWAAP. To assess inflammatory responses and pulmonary fibrosis, immunohistochemical and histological staining was performed. CD68, CD163, CD169, TGF‐β, and collagen I positive cells/areas in the lungs of the CWAAP‐group rats were significantly increased than those in the PBS group. Furthermore, the number of iBALT structures, CD4 + T cells, along with CD19, PAX5, IL‐4, GATA‐3, T‐bet, and IgE‐positive cells in the terminal bronchioles and blood vessels of the lungs were significantly increased in the CWAAP group. Moreover, pulmonary fibrosis, iBALT formation, and levels of specific IgG were significantly increased in rats who received multiple intratracheal administrations of CWAAP compared to those with single intratracheal administration. Multiple intratracheal administrations of CWAAP potentiated the classical fibrotic pathway (M2 macrophage‐TGF‐β‐collagen I) more potently than single intratracheal administration. Furthermore, it was possible that iBALT was formed around terminal bronchioles and blood vessels and the number of immune cells was increased, resulting in enhanced allergic inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis.
Implementation strategy for advanced practice nursing in Gabon: A multicenter mixed‐method study
Authors: Toniolo Jean , Ngoungou Edgard Brice , Ategbo Simon , Ibinga Euloge , Maghendji‐Nzondo Sydney , Preux Pierre‐Marie , Beloni Pascale
Published: November 2023

Aim

To describe the expectations, acceptability, and challenges identified by nurses and key healthcare stakeholders regarding the implementation of advanced practice nursing in Gabon.

Background

Advanced practice nursing presents an opportunity to address the epidemiological transition and the shortage of healthcare professionals in Africa. In anticipation of establishing a master's degree program in advanced practice nursing and its subsequent implementation, it is important to understand Gabon's specific needs and characteristics.

Design

This study used a multicenter cross‐sectional mixed‐method design.

Methods

From April to May 2022, a total of 187 healthcare professionals were included from two hospitals and two universities in Gabon. Data were collected through questionnaires and complemented by focus group discussions, guided by the existing literature, the PEPPA framework, and Hamric's model.

Results

The implementation of advanced practice nursing was generally well accepted. Factors influencing acceptability included being female, awareness of advanced practice nursing, and supporting the role of advanced practice nurses in diagnosing chronic diseases. Barriers to implementation included the absence of a legal framework for the profession and a lack of recognition of nursing skills by both nurses and doctors. Facilitators included the establishment of a master's degree program, formalization of a legal framework, raising awareness, providing training to medical doctors and other healthcare professionals about advanced practice nursing, and the development of nursing leadership.

Implications for nursing

Advanced practice nursing can play a crucial role in addressing healthcare resource shortages and the dual burden of chronic and infectious diseases in Gabon, as well as in other African countries.

Implications for nursing policy

To successfully implement advanced practice nursing in Gabon and French‐speaking Africa, it is essential to regulate the nursing and advanced nursing professions by creating a legal framework and establishing nursing councils. An effective implementation strategy for advanced practice nurses should be based on the specific needs of the country.

Guidelines

COREQ, STROBE
The relationship between servant leadership and nurses' in‐role performance: The sequential mediating effects of job autonomy and emotional exhaustion
Authors: Xiao Qijie , Iftikhar Qudsia , Spaeth Katharina , Zhang Chunyu , Liang Xiaoyan (Christiana) , Klarin Anton , Liu Liping
Published: November 2023

Aims

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, this study examines the underlying process through which servant leadership is associated with nurses' in‐role performance. Specifically, we test the indirect effect of servant leadership on in‐role performance via a sequential mediating mechanism of job autonomy and emotional exhaustion.

Design

A time‐lagged design was implemented using data gathered from two‐wave online surveys (1 week apart) of registered nurses from Jiangsu Province, China.

Methods

Between September 2022 and February 2023, we used Wenjuanxing and Credma, which are two powerful and user‐friendly data collection platforms, to distribute online surveys to potential participants. We received a total of 220 usable responses and employed the PROCESS Model 4 and Model 6 to assess our proposed hypotheses.

Results

Our proposed model was supported. Servant leadership has a positive indirect effect on nurses' in‐role performance through job autonomy and emotional exhaustion. Job autonomy has a negative effect on emotional exhaustion. Additionally, job autonomy mediates the negative relationship between servant leadership and emotional exhaustion.

Conclusion

The present research extends existing nursing studies by unravelling the complex mechanisms underlying the relationship between servant leadership and nurses' in‐role performance. Our study also identifies the underlying mechanism of how servant leadership mitigates emotional exhaustion by supporting nurses' job autonomy.

Impact

The sequential mediation results provide us with a more fine‐grained understanding of the relationship between servant leadership and nurses' in‐role performance. It further promotes job autonomy and decreases emotional exhaustion, which supports the UN Sustainable Development Goal #3 (Good Health and Well‐being).

Patient or Public Contribution

This study addresses the UN Sustainable Development Goal #3: ‘To ensure healthy lives and promote well‐being for all at all ages’ and the healthcare providers will benefit from our study. Therefore, the study contributes to a more sustainable organization and society.
Nursing students' and educators' perspectives on sustainability and climate change: An integrative review
Authors: Aronsson Jennie , Nichols Andy , Warwick Paul , Elf Marie
Published: November 2023

Aim

To identify and synthesize research on the awareness, attitudes and action related to sustainability and climate change from the perspective of nursing students and educators globally.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

The review was guided by Whittemore and Knafl. Included studies were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A deductive content analysis based on Elo and Kyngäs' methodology was employed.

Data Sources

CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, British Education Index, GreenFILE and Scopus were searched up to the 8th November 2022.

Results

Thirty‐two studies were included in the review. Two studies included nursing educators in their samples, the rest focused solely on students. Findings suggest that whilst some students were aware of sustainability issues and felt that nurses have a responsibility to mitigate climate change, others showed limited awareness and believed that nurses have more important priorities. A global interest was seen among students for increased curricular content related to sustainability and climate change. Waste management and education of others were suggested actions students can take; however, barriers included lack of confidence and limited power.

Conclusion

There is a need for sustainability education within nursing curricula, accompanied by student support.

Implications for the Profession

The review acts as a starting point to make sustainable healthcare and climate change mitigation integral aspects of nursing.

Impact

Sustainability education within nursing curricula can positively impact on sustainable healthcare and climate change mitigation. More research is needed on the perspectives of nursing educators.

Reporting Method

The review is reported according to the PRISMA guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Character variation in separate body regions of Gerreidae (Osteichthyes: Teleostei) fishes inferred from geometric morphometrics
Authors: Chollet‐Villalpando Jorge Guillermo , García‐Rodríguez Francisco Javier , De La Cruz‐Agüero José
Published: November 2023

Body morphology is a valuable feature for distinguishing teleostean fishes. However, the utility of character variation in separate body regions has yet to be tested. The taxonomy of the Gerreidae family is controversial due to character overlapping among its fish species. This work aims to analyze and compare the body shape variation in three regions, cephalic, trunk, and caudal peduncle, using landmark data and geometric morphometric methods in 17 species and five genera of the family Gerreidae. The pattern of shape variation for the cephalic region consisted of well‐defined character states exclusive of each species analyzed. Shape variation in the trunk and caudal peduncle regions does not distinguish all species in this study. This study showed that the dorsal cephalic profile is highly variable among the species, therefore, shape variation in this region is useful for distinguishing Gerreidae species. In contrast, some species within the same genus share similar shape states in the trunk and caudal peduncle regions, with the most shape variation in the dorsal profile and anal fin for the trunk and in the middle of the caudal peduncle.
Association between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor use and developing irritable bowel syndrome through retrospective analysis
Authors: Kwak Nayoung , Lee Hankil , Kim Beom Kyung , Yu Yun Mi , Kang Hye‐Young
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

Serotonin affects the balance and integrity of the gut microbiome; however, studies have confirmed the influence of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We evaluated the association between SSRI use and subsequent IBS occurrence in a real‐world setting.

Methods

A multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was adopted, and the National Health Insurance Service cohort claims database between 2010 and 2019 was used. Non‐SSRI users were selected using the propensity score matching method. Subgroup analyses were performed using the point of use, cumulative dose, and duration of SSRI use. Additional analysis was performed using a control group without psychiatric medications.

Results

We included 2901 SSRI users and 2727 non‐SSRI users. After adjusting covariates, the risk of developing IBS in SSRI users was 1.54 times that in non‐SSRI users (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–2.33). The hazard ratio (HR) of the recent, heavy, and short‐term user groups were 3.19 (95% CI: 2.03–4.99), 2.22 (95% CI: 1.50–3.29), and 4.83 (95% CI: 3.02–7.73), respectively, compared with that of non‐users. In patients without a history of psychiatric medications, the risk of IBS incidence after SSRI use increased significantly (HR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.06–2.42), whereas HR was insignificant in patients with a history of psychiatric medications (HR: 1.25, 95% CI: 0.98–1.60).

Conclusions

The risk of subsequent IBS occurrence following SSRI use was high in patients who initially took a heavy SSRI dose and those who did not have a history of psychiatric drug use.
Prospective life cycle assessment of sodium‐ion batteries made from abundant elements
Authors: Wickerts Sanna , Arvidsson Rickard , Nordelöf Anders , Svanström Magdalena , Johansson Patrik
Published: November 2023

Batteries are enablers for reducing fossil‐fuel dependency and climate‐change impacts. In this study, a prospective life cycle assessment (LCA) of large‐scale production of two different sodium‐ion battery (SIB) cells is performed with a cradle‐to‐gate system boundary. The SIB cells modeled have Prussian white cathodes and hard carbon anodes based only on abundant elements and thus constitute potentially preferable options to current lithium‐ion battery (LIB) cells from a mineral resource scarcity point of view. The functional unit was 1 kWh theoretical electricity storage capacity, and the specific energy density of the cells was 160 Wh/kg. Data for the cathode active material come from a large‐scale facility under construction and data for the SIB cell production is based on a large‐scale LIB cell gigafactory. For other SIB cell materials, prospective inventory data was obtained from a generic eight‐step procedure developed, which can be used by other LCA practitioners. The results show that both SIB cells indeed have considerably lower mineral resource scarcity impacts than nickel‐manganese‐cobalt (NMC)‐type LIB cells in a cradle‐to‐gate perspective, while their global warming impacts are on par. Main recommendations to SIB manufacturers are to source fossil‐free electricity for cell production and use hard carbon anodes based on lignin instead of phenolic resin. Additionally, since none of the assessed electrolytes had clearly lower cradle‐to‐gate impacts than any other, more research into SIB electrolyte materials with low environmental and resource impacts should be prioritized. An improvement of the SIB cell production model would be to obtain large‐scale production data specific to SIB cells.
Phase separation of S‐RNase promotes self‐incompatibility in Petunia hybrida
Authors: Tian Huayang , Zhang Hongkui , Huang Huaqiu , Zhang Yu'e , Xue Yongbiao
Published: November 2023

Self‐incompatibility (SI) is an intraspecific reproductive barrier widely present in angiosperms. The SI system with the broadest occurrence in angiosperms is based on an S‐RNase linked to a cluster of multiple S‐locus F‐box (SLF) genes found in the Solanaceae, Plantaginaceae, Rosaceae, and Rutaceae. Recent studies reveal that non‐self S‐RNase is degraded by the Skip Cullin F‐box (SCF)SLF‐mediated ubiquitin–proteasome system in a collaborative manner in Petunia, but how self‐RNase functions largely remains mysterious. Here, we show that S‐RNases form S‐RNase condensates (SRCs) in the self‐pollen tube cytoplasm through phase separation and the disruption of SRC formation breaks SI in self‐incompatible Petunia hybrida. We further find that the pistil SI factors of a small asparagine‐rich protein HT‐B and thioredoxin h together with a reduced state of the pollen tube all promote the expansion of SRCs, which then sequester several actin‐binding proteins, including the actin polymerization factor PhABRACL, the actin polymerization activity of which is reduced by S‐RNase in vitro. Meanwhile, we find that S‐RNase variants lacking condensation ability fail to recruit PhABRACL and are unable to induce actin foci formation required for pollen tube growth inhibition. Taken together, our results demonstrate that phase separation of S‐RNase promotes SI response in P. hybrida, revealing a new mode of S‐RNase action.
Quantifying the Effects of Price Discrimination Under Imperfect Competition*
Authors: Vélez‐Velásquez Juan Sebastián
Published: November 2023

This article analyzes the effects of broadband carriers switching from price discrimination to uniform pricing. Broadband carriers often use third‐degree price discrimination. In Colombia, broadband carriers rely on government‐issued socio‐economic information to segment markets. I use demand and marginal cost estimates to quantify the effects of switching from price discrimination to uniform pricing in an environment of high income disparity. The results provide direct evidence of large consumer surplus transfers from poorer to wealthier households. Poorer households respond by subscribing to slower Internet plans, which may undermine prior efforts to increase download speeds in this demographic.
Recurrent otitis media and behaviour problems in middle childhood: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Altamimi Ali AH , Robinson Monique , Alenezi Eman MA , Veselinović Tamara , Choi Robyn SM , Brennan‐Jones Christopher G
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the long‐term effects of early‐life recurrent otitis media (OM) and subsequent behavioural problems in children at the age of 10 years.

Methods

Data from the Raine Study, a longitudinal pregnancy cohort, were used to categorise children into those with three or more episodes of OM (rOM group) and those without a history of recurrent OM in the first 3 years of life (reference group). The parent report Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was used to assess child behaviour at the age of 10 years. Parental questionnaires were used to report past and present diagnoses of various mental health and developmental conditions, including attention, anxiety, depression, learning, and speech‐language problems. Multiple linear and logistic models were used to analyse the data and were adjusted for a fixed set of key confounding variables.

Results

The linear regression analysis revealed significant, independent associations between a history of recurrent OM and higher Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire scores, including total, internalising, externalising, emotional, attention/hyperactivity and peer problems subscales. Logistic regression analyses revealed an independent increased likelihood for children in the rOM group to have a diagnosis of attention, anxiety, learning and speech‐language problems.

Conclusion

Children at 10 years of age with an early history of recurrent OM are more likely to exhibit attentional and behavioural problems when compared to children without a history of recurrent OM. These findings highlight the association between early‐life recurrent OM and later behavioural problems that may require professional allied health‐care interventions.
Suspected tick‐borne flavivirus meningoencephalomyelitis in dogs from the UK: six cases (2021)
Authors: Gonzalo‐Nadal V. , Kohl A. , Rocchi M. , Brennan B. , Hughes J. , Nichols J. , Da Silva Filipe A. , Dunlop J. I. , Fares M. , Clark J. J. , Tandavanitj R. , Patel A. H. , Cloquell‐Miro A. , Bongers J. , Deacon J. , Kaczmarska A. , Stalin C. , Liatis T. , Irving J. , Gutierrez‐Quintana R.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Tick‐borne encephalitis virus and louping ill virus are neurotropic flaviviruses transmitted by ticks. Epidemiologically, tick‐borne encephalitis is endemic in Europe whereas louping ill's predominant geographical distribution is the UK. Rarely, these flaviviruses affect dogs causing neurological signs. This case series aimed to describe the clinical, clinicopathological, and imaging findings, as well as the outcomes in six dogs with meningoencephalitis and/or meningomyelitis caused by a flavivirus in the UK in 2021.

Materials and Methods

Observational retrospective case‐series study. Clinical data were retrieved from medical records of dogs with positive serological or immunohistochemical results from three different institutions from spring to winter 2021.

Results

Six dogs were included in the study. All dogs presented an initial phase of pyrexia and/or lethargy followed by progressive signs of spinal cord and/or intracranial disease. Magnetic resonance imaging showed bilateral and symmetrical lesions affecting the grey matter of the thalamus, pons, medulla oblongata, and thoracic or lumbar intumescences with none or mild parenchymal and meningeal contrast enhancement. Serology for tick‐borne encephalitis virus was positive in five dogs with the presence of seroconversion in two dogs. The viral distinction between flaviviruses was not achieved. One dog with negative serology presented positive immunohistochemistry at post‐mortem examination. Three dogs survived but presented neurological sequelae. Three dogs were euthanased due to the rapid progression of the clinical signs or static neurological signs.

Clinical Significance

These cases raise awareness of the presence of tick‐borne encephalitis as an emergent disease or the increased prevalence of louping ill virus affecting dogs in the UK.