bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inequalities in the pandemic and post pandemic times of older people. Case of Russia
Authors: Galkin Konstantin , Grigorieva Irina
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to study the inequalities faced by older people through the analysis of semistructured interviews with older residents of Saint Petersburg and the villages in the Republic of Karelia in Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors begin the research by studying the nature of the perception of inequalities in older people’s lives, as well as examining the concept of inequality in the context of modern reality affected by the pandemic and postpandemic repercussions. Furthermore, the authors analyze empirical cases and, using thematic analysis, examine the specifics and the nature of the emerging inequalities, as well as the ways in which older people overcome them. In the modern world, individual rather than class competition is increasingly manifested, which stipulates the specific character of research associated with the necessity to study personal competition and interactions in the context of everyday life. The empirical basis of the study was 30 semistructured interviews conducted in 2022 in St. Petersburg and rural areas of the Republic of Karelia. The study of the everyday features of the manifestation of inequalities and ageism was carried out using modern sociological approaches.

Findings

It is concluded that older people find ways to adapt to social changes in pandemic and postpandemic times through strategies such as emotional reflection on the past, hobbies, reviewing old resources and searching for new ones, changing ways of communication and solving problems. The desire to take care of one’s own well-being is becoming an important focus of attention for the older in their daily routine.

Originality/value

These strategies create positive opportunities for adaptation and contribute to reducing the fears and anxiety of the elderly regarding the possible return to similar situations like the COVID-19 pandemic and related inequalities.
Deer grazing drove an assemblage‐level evolution of plant dwarfism in an insular system
Authors: Takahashi Daiki , Suyama Yoshihisa , Fukushima Keitaro , Setoguchi Hiroaki , Sakaguchi Shota
Published: May 2024

Plant dwarfism, a syndrome characterised by a significant reduction in plant height and organ size, is a widely observed pattern of stress‐tolerant life‐form evolution that results from local adaptation to harsh environmental conditions. The drivers of assemblage‐level dwarfism have primarily been attributed to abiotic factors, such as low temperature, aridity, poor soil fertility or frequent fires. While biotic factors such as grazing pressure from herbivores can contribute to the establishment of plant dwarfism, these factors have rarely been tested at assemblage levels.

Focusing on a dwarf plant assemblage comprising over 80 taxa on a small continental island in Japan with a high deer density, we hypothesised that historical deer grazing could also be a factor contributing to the large‐scale convergent evolution of dwarfism.

To test this hypothesis, we measured the size of 1908 individual plants of 40 taxa pairs, comprising both palatable and unpalatable pairs from the island and their counterpart taxa from neighbouring regions, and sought to assess which factors (i.e. low solar radiation, estimated divergence time, low nutrient conditions and grazing pressure from deer) may have contributed to the formation of the dwarf plant assemblage on the island. We also performed genetic analysis to infer the time frames for the establishment of dwarf taxa.

Statistical analyses revealed that plant size was significantly reduced mainly among the palatable taxa growing on the island, with preferential grazing by deer being identified as the most significant factor influencing plant size. Furthermore, genetic analyses revealed that dwarf ecotypes may have evolved over tens of thousands of years.

Synthesis: To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate that interactions with herbivores can shape the assemblage‐level convergence of plant dwarfism. These findings enhance our current understanding of the formation of plant functional diversity.
Playing Politics: An Upper Echelons' Perspective on Political Behaviour During Acquisition Decision Making
Authors: Lou Bowen , Shepherd Neil Gareth , Strobl Andreas , Bauer Florian
Published: May 2024

The pre‐deal phase of an acquisition is complex, with high stakes and high uncertainty. Consequently, acquisition decision making can be seen as an inherently political process. While political behaviour is a central concept in organizational theory, and despite its inevitability during acquisition decision making owing to the contested nature of the pre‐deal phase, there is a shortage of theory and evidence concerning the antecedents, consequences and moderators of political behaviour. To address these theoretical shortcomings, we develop and test a theoretical model of political behaviour focusing on the psychological context of the top management team (TMT). We argue that while political behaviour risks undermining acquisition performance, the degree of board involvement during the pre‐deal phase can enable some TMTs to attenuate the damaging effects of political behaviour. Further, we theorize two key antecedents variously fuelling and constraining political behaviour. We contend that while TMT cohesion reduces political behaviour, cognitive diversity increases political behaviour while suppressing the potential for TMT cohesion to prevent political behaviour. We test our theoretical model using a field‐based sample of 109 UK acquisitions, combining multiple informants with objective secondary data.
Negotiating pace, focus and identities: Patient/public involvement/engagement in a palliative care study
Authors: Forbat Liz , Macgregor Aisha , Brown Talitha , McCormack Brendan , Spilsbury Karen , Rutherford Alasdair , Hanratty Barbara , Hockley Jo , McKenzie Maisie , Soulsby Irene , Ogden Margaret
Published: May 2024

Patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) is an increasingly important component of research conduct to enhance processes and potential for impact, yet is rarely critically interrogated. This paper draws on Foucauldian analysis to highlight the disciplinary powers and tensions arising in PPIE. The paper draws on a nested evaluation interview study with three PPIE members and eight academics, who had been involved in an implementation science study focused on palliative care. PPIE members were involved in the whole study and are co‐authors of this article. Through shared values and commitments to the study, a team culture of equality was developed. Yet while power was dispersed and taken‐up by all team members, in so doing a self‐governance approach within the team was developed. The pace and focus of discussions was at times more subjugating than co‐production. Identities and positions were porous; the simplistic division of ‘academic’ and ‘PPIE’ did not stand up to scrutiny, with an increasing blurring of boundaries as people’s experiences and insights changed over time. Continual, subtle, negotiations of roles, inputs and identities were manifest throughout the project. PPIE in research involves subtle, complex and ongoing disciplinary practices enacted by all members of the team.
THE HOUSING‐WELFARE REGIME AND THIRD‐SECTOR HOUSING IN HONG KONG AND SOUTH KOREA: A Historical Institutionalist Perspective
Authors: Seo Bo Kyong , Kim Dayoon
Published: May 2024

The third sector has recently emerged, or re‐emerged, as a new housing provider for disadvantaged groups in Hong Kong and Korea, where affordable housing development has been predominantly directed by government. However, our knowledge of third‐sector housing in non‐Western contexts remains partial. In this article, we aim to provide, from a historical‐institutionalist perspective, a comparative account of the (re‐)emergence and implementation of third‐sector affordable housing delivery in Hong Kong and Korea. Based on the housing‐welfare regime framework, we discuss the socioeconomic and political contexts in which third‐sector housing has burgeoned in the two regions, and how the relationship between the government and the third sector has moulded the implementation of third‐sector housing. We highlight the significant power of the government in implementing third‐sector housing and third‐sector organizations’ continued complementary role to the government in supplying housing as welfare, which reflects the path‐dependent nature of housing and welfare policies in the two regions. Adopting a long view to understanding history and a broader framework that reflects the socioeconomic context contributes to advancing the comparative housing literature.
Psychology as a Science of the Soul: Evangelos Christou’s The Logos of the Soul (1963)
Authors: Kugelmann Robert
Published: May 2024

After Evangelos Christou (1923–1956) studied philosophy at King’s College, Cambridge, with Wittgenstein and others, he earned a doctorate at the Jung Institute in Zürich. He then returned home to Alexandria, near which he died in a car crash. The Logos of the Soul, published posthumously, argued for a psychology that would be neither a natural scientific psychology, devoted to causal analyses, nor a philosophical discipline that analysed mental events. Psychology would be an autonomous science of the soul, an unknown distinct from body and mind. Science deals with bodies and behaviours; philosophy with the mental concepts and acts. Psychology deals with “psychological experience”. Dreams and fantasies can be sources of psychological experience, but so can perceptual acts and mental acts. Meaning occurs when something encounters an ego or self in a psychological experience. Observation in psychology is participant observation, akin to witnessing of a drama. Psychological methods, such as psychotherapy, are both means of discovery and means of becoming. Christou’s work brought together Jung’s analytical psychology and mid‐century British philosophy in order to stake out the ground for psychology that would be an empirical analysis of psychological experience and a logical analysis of the concepts used in that psychology.
Addressing the safety of new food sources and production systems
Authors: Tan Yong Quan , Ong How Chee , Yong Adeline Mei Hui , Fattori Vittorio , Mukherjee Keya
Published: May 2024

New food sources and production systems (NFPS) are garnering much attention, driven by international trade, changing consumer preferences, potential sustainability benefits, and innovations in climate‐resilient food production systems. However, NFPS can introduce new challenges for food safety agencies and food manufacturers. Most food safety hazards linked to new foods have been identified in traditional foods. However, there can be some food safety challenges that are unique to new foods. New food ingredients, inputs, and processes can introduce unexpected contaminants. To realize the full potential of NFPS, there is a need for stakeholders from governments, the food industry, and the research community to collectively work to address and communicate the safety of NFPS products. This review outlines known food safety hazards associated with select NFPS products on the market, namely, plant‐derived proteins, seaweeds, jellyfish, insects, microbial proteins, as well as foods derived from cell‐based food production, precision fermentation, vertical farming, and 3D food printing. We identify common elements in emerging NFPS regulatory frameworks in various countries/regions. Furthermore, we highlight current efforts in harmonization of terminologies, use of recent scientific tools to fill in food safety knowledge gaps, and international multi‐stakeholder collaborations to tackle safety challenges. Although there cannot be a one‐size‐fits‐all approach when it comes to the regulatory oversight for ensuring the safety of NFPS, there is a need to develop consensus‐based structured protocols or workflows among stakeholders to facilitate comprehensive, robust, and internationally harmonized approaches. These efforts increase consumers’ confidence in the safety of new foods and contribute toward fair practices in the international trade of such foods.
Rapid determination of starch and alcohol contents in fermented grains by hyperspectral imaging combined with data fusion techniques
Authors: Liang Yan , Tian Jianping , Hu Xinjun , Huang Yuexiang , He Kangling , Xie Liangliang , Yang Haili , Huang Dan , Zhou Yifei , Xia Yuanyuan
Published: May 2024

Starch and alcohol serve as pivotal indicators in assessing the quality of lees fermentation. In this paper, two hyperspectral imaging (HSI) techniques (visible–near‐infrared (Vis–NIR) and NIR) were utilized to acquire separate HSI data, which were then fused and analyzed toforecast the starch and alcohol contents during the fermentation of lees. Five preprocessing methods were first used to preprocess the Vis–NIR, NIR, and the fused Vis–NIR and NIR data, after which partial least squares regression models were established to determine the best preprocessing method. Following, competitive adaptive reweighted sampling, successive projection algorithm, and principal component analysis algorithms were used to extract the characteristic wavelengths to accurately predict the starch and alcohol levels. Finally, support vector machine (SVM)‐AdaBoost and XGBoost models were built based on the low‐level fusion (LLF) and intermediate‐level fusion (ILF) of single Vis–NIR and NIR as well as the fused data. The results showed that the SVM‐AdaBoost model built using the LLF data afterpreprocessing by standard normalized variable was most accurate for predicting the starch content, with an of 0.9976 and a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.0992. The XGBoost model built using ILF data was most accurate for predicting the alcohol content, with an of 0.9969 and an RMSEP of 0.0605. In conclusion, the analysis of fused data from distinct HSI technologies facilitates rapid and precise determination of the starch and alcohol contents in fermented grains.
Diversity in Pyracantha fortuneana fruits maturity stages enables discrepancy in the phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and tyrosinase inhibitory activity
Authors: Wang Yan , Shao Qiju , Yang Xijin , Su Ke , Li Zhirong , Yang Yuyao , Yuan Xiaoyan , Chen Rongxiang
Published: May 2024

Pyracantha fortuneana (P. fortuneana) fruit is a wild fruit that is popular because of its delicious taste and numerous nutrients, and phenolic compounds are considered to be the main bioactive components in P. fortuneana fruits. However, the relationship between phenolic compounds and their antioxidant and tyrosinase (TYR) inhibitory activities during the ripening process is still unclear. The study compared the influence of the five developmental stages on the accumulation of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, and TYR inhibitory activity in the fruits of P. fortuneana. The compounds were identified by offline two‐dimensional liquid chromatography‐electrochemical detection (2D‐LC‐ECD) combined with liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, and the main active ingredients were quantified. The results showed that stage II had higher total phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as higher antioxidant and TYR inhibitory activity, but the total anthocyanin content was lowest at this stage. A total of 30 compounds were identified by 2D‐LC‐ECD. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis screened out six major potential markers, including phenolic acids, procyanidins, and flavonoids. In addition, it was found that caffeoylquinic acids, procyanidins, and flavonoids were higher in stage II than in stages I, III, IV, and V, whereas anthocyanins accumulated gradually from stages III to V. Therefore, this study suggests that the changes in antioxidant and TYR inhibitory activities of P. fortuneana during the five developmental stages may be due to the transformation of procyanidins, caffeoylquinic acids, and phenolic glycosides into other forms during the fruit maturation process.

Practical Application: Differences in chemical constituents, antioxidant, and tyrosinase inhibitory activities in fruit maturity stages of P. fortuneana were elucidated to provide reference for rational harvesting and utilization of the fruits and their bioactive components. These findings are expected to provide a comprehensive assessment of the bioactive profile and guide the food industrial production.
Causal association between autoimmune liver disease and Sjögren's syndrome: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Yixuan , Wang Jing , Jiang Huan , Zhang Ju , Qi Jiaping , Jiang Zhaoyu , Chen Lin , Ying Zhenhua
Published: May 2024

Background

Observational studies have found an association between autoimmune liver disease (AILD) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS). However, the causal relationship between the two remains unknown. Clinical guidelines indicate that the coexistence of AILD with other autoimmune diseases may impact prognosis and quality of life; hence, early recognition and management of extrahepatic autoimmune diseases is particularly crucial. Against this backdrop, this study aimed to utilize Mendelian randomization (MR) methods to investigate the potential causal relationship between AILD and SS.

Methods

We extracted summary statistics on AILD and SS from publicly available genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) databases to identify appropriate instrumental variables (IVs). The inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) method was utilized as the primary approach, with the weighted median (WM) method and MR‐Egger method employed as supplementary methods to evaluate the potential causal relationship between the two conditions. Sensitivity analyses, including Cochran's Q test, MR‐polynomial residuals and outliers (MR‐PRESSO), MR‐Egger intercept test, and the leave‐one‐out test, were performed to assess the stability of the results.

Results

The MR study results indicate a significant causal relationship between PBC and PSC with the risk of SS in the European population (IVW: odds ratio [OR] = 1.155, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.092–1.222, p < .001; IVW: OR = 1.162, 95% CI: 1.051–1.284, p = .003). A series of sensitivity analyses have confirmed the reliability of the results.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that the presence of both PBC and PSC increases the susceptibility to SS. However, no reliable causal relationship was found between SS and the risk of PBC or PSC. These findings contribute to elucidating the potential pathogenic mechanisms of the disease and are of significant importance for the management of patients with PBC and PSC.
Assessment and comparison of the 2023 ACR/EULAR APS criteria with the revised Sapporo criteria
Authors: Vasi İbrahim , Kardaş Rıza Can , Ekici Mustafa , Yıldırım Derya , Kaya Burcugül , Duran Rahime , Karadeniz Hazan , Güler Aslıhan Avanoğlu , Küçük Hamit , Göker Berna , Bilgen Şule Apraş , Tufan Abdurrahman , Öztürk Mehmet Akif , Erden Abdulsamet
Published: May 2024

Objective

To analyze antiphospholipid antibody (aPL)‐positive patients using the 2023 American College of Rheumatology/The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (ACR/EULAR) antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) classification criteria and compare the revised Sapporo criteria and the 2023 ACR/EULAR criteria and evaluate whether the 2023 ACR/EULAR criteria provide added value over the revised Sapporo criteria.

Methods

In this descriptive study, 94 aPL‐positive patients (with or without APS diagnosis) were identified from two hospital‐based registries (Gazi and Hacettepe University). Patients were classified into four groups to compare both criteria sets. These four groups are as follows: (1) patients classified with only the revised Sapporo criteria; (2) patients classified with only the 2023 ACR/EULAR APS criteria; (3) patients classified with both two criteria sets; and (4) patients classified with neither two criteria set.

Results

Of the 94 patients, 11 were classified with only the revised Sapporo criteria; one with only the 2023 ACR/EULAR APS criteria; 52 with both criteria sets; and 30 with neither set of criteria. For these 94 patients, the operating characteristics of the 2023 ACR/EULAR APS criteria, using the revised Sapporo criteria as the gold standard, the 2023 ACR/EULAR APS entry criteria demonstrated 100% sensitivity, and the 2023 ACR/EULAR APS classification criteria demonstrated 98% specificity and 82.5% sensitivity.

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing differences in clinical manifestations, such as early pregnancy loss without severe preeclampsia (PEC) and/or severe placental insufficiency (PI) and calls for a nuanced discussion on anticardiolipin (aCL) and anti‐beta 2‐glycoprotein‐I (anti‐β2GPI) immunoglobulin G (IgG) cutoff values.
Argentina and the Ukraine War: Between pragmatism and values
Authors: Binetti Bruno
Published: May 2024

This article examines Argentina's stance regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine. During the administration of President Alberto Fernández (2019–2023), Argentina condemned the invasion at the United Nations but maintained a relatively low diplomatic profile and criticised Western sanctions against Russia. However, since President Javier Milei took office in late 2023, Argentina has shifted its foreign policy orientation towards greater alignment with Western powers, leading to a more unequivocal support of Ukraine. As a significant development, President Zelensky responded by attending Milei's inauguration. The evolution of Argentina's position results from a combination of strategic calculation and principles across administrations of different ideological orientations, contradicting simplistic views of the international stance of Global South countries.
Remimazolam for sedation and anesthesia in children: A scoping review
Authors: Kuklin Vladimir , Hansen Tom G.
Published: May 2024

Background

Remimazolam, a novel intravenous benzodiazepine recently approved by both the European Medicines Agency and the Food and Drug Agency, shows considerable promise in clinical practice. Its pharmacodynamic profile closely resembles that of midazolam, while its pharmacokinetic properties are similar to those of remifentanil. While research in adult populations continues to accumulate, the pace of pediatric studies is not as significant.

This scoping review aims to systematically examine published studies, clinical trials, observational research, case reports, and relevant literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of remimazolam in pediatric sedation and anesthesia. By synthesizing the gathered evidence, we aim to identify gaps in the literature, guide future research endeavors, and inform clinical practices.

Methods

The review follows the guidelines outlined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis for Scoping Review. A thorough search strategy was implemented across prominent peer‐reviewed databases, with focused efforts to identify relevant grey literature. All primary studies involving the use of remimazolam in pediatric populations were included in this review.

Results

Eighteen studies were included in this analysis, comprising 2 randomized controlled trials, 4 prospective cohort trials, 12 case reports, and 692 children in total.

Conclusion

This scoping review highlights the increasing interest in using remimazolam as a sedative or anesthetic for children. Although initial evidence indicates its effectiveness and safety, more research is necessary to fill knowledge gaps, establish standard protocols, and optimize its use in pediatric anesthesia and sedation. Addressing these challenges will enable clinicians to improve the quality of care and outcomes for pediatric patients undergoing sedation and anesthesia.
Clinical features of individuals with laboratory values suggestive of advanced liver fibrosis when first treated for alcohol use disorder
Authors: Zuluaga Paola , Fuster Daniel , Blanes Rafael , Hernández‐Rubio Anna , Miquel Laia , Torrens Marta , Rubio Gabriel , Bolao Ferrán , Liangpunsakul Suthat , Abellí‐Deulofeu Enric , Rodriguez de Fonseca Fernando , Muga Robert ,   CohRTA
Published: May 2024

Background

Effective screening for alcohol‐associated liver disease is relevant in the context of chronic, excessive alcohol consumption. Patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease are often not diagnosed until their liver disease is decompensated. We analyzed the prevalence and associations of Fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4) values suggestive of advanced liver fibrosis in patients referred for their first treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional, multicenter study of noncirrhotic individuals referred for their first AUD treatment between March 2013 and April 2021. We obtained sociodemographic data, substance use characteristics, and blood samples at admission. We considered a FIB‐4 value ≥2.67 suggestive of advanced liver fibrosis and used logistic regression analyses to identify features associated with this value.

Results

We included 604 patients (67% male), with a median age at admission of 48 years [IQR: 41–56 years]. The median duration of regular alcohol consumption was 21 years [IQR: 18–30 years] and the median alcohol consumption was 105 standard drink units (SDU)/week [IQR: 63–160 SDU/week]. A FIB‐4 value ≥ 2.67 was present in 19.3% of cases. These patients reported more frequent binge drinking (75.4% vs. 66%, p = 0.05) than those with FIB‐4 values below 2.67. In multivariate analysis, a history of binge drinking (OR 1.9, 95% CI, 1.05–3.47), anemia (OR 2.95, 95% CI, 1.42–6.11), leukopenia (OR 7.46, 95% CI, 2.07–26.8), and total serum bilirubin >1 mg/dL (OR 6.46, 95% CI, 3.57–11.7) were independently associated with FIB‐4 values ≥2.67.

Conclusions

One in five patients admitted to treatment for AUD without evidence of decompensated liver disease have FIB‐4 values suggestive of advanced liver fibrosis. The presence of a binge drinking history, anemia, leukopenia, and elevated bilirubin levels is associated with high FIB‐4 values.
Association of systemic chronic inflammation during pregnancy in different periods and its trajectories with preterm birth
Authors: Cheng Haoyue , Zhu Zhe , Chi Peihan , Alifu Xialidan , Zhuang Yan , Si Shuting , Qiu Yiwen , Zhou Haibo , Peng Zhicheng , Yu Yunxian
Published: May 2024

Problem

Systemic chronic inflammation (SCI) is a prevalent characteristic observed in various diseases originating from different tissues, while the association of SCI with preterm birth (PTB) remains uncertain. This study aimed to analyze the association between a nonspecific biomarker of SCI and PTB, while also exploring the trajectories of SCI in pregnant women at risk of PTB.

Method of study

The study used data from the Electronic Medical Record System (EMRS) of a hospital in Zhejiang, China and 9226 pregnant women were included. The duration of pregnancy was categorized into four distinct periods: the first, early‐second, late‐second, and third trimester. Latent class trajectory modeling (LCTM) was used to identify the trajectories of SCI during pregnancy.

Results

The elevated WBC counts in the late‐second (OR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.06–1.23) and third (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.09–1.24) trimester were both positively associated with an evaluated risk of PTB. Moreover, significant dose–response relationships were observed. There were three distinct SCI trajectories found: progressing SCI (2.89%), high SCI (7.13%), and low SCI (89.98%). Pregnant women with progressive SCI had the highest risk of PTB (OR = 3.03, 95% CI: 1.47–6.25).

Conclusions

In conclusion, elevated SCI after 23 weeks was a risk factor for PTB in healthy women, even if the SCI indicator was within normal range. Pregnant women with progressive SCI during pregnancy had the highest risk of PTB.
The costs of war: Lessons from a public scholarship project on the post‐9/11 wars
Authors: Savell Stephanie , Lutz Catherine
Published: May 2024

This article lays out the work of Costs of War, a project of scholars creating public‐facing knowledge toward the goal of challenging US militarism. Emerging from literature that critiques US imperial violence and deconstructs the commonplace understandings that support it, our efforts identify and confront pillars of belief about war that are shaped by the powerful military‐industrial complex and rooted in an underlying devaluation of the lives of Muslims, people of color, women, and oppressed groups who bear the brunt of militarization both at home and abroad. We use our research and associated website (costsofwar.org) to reach out to journalists, editors, Congress, policymakers, civic groups, social movements, and the US public. In contesting the soundbites about the post‐9/11 wars that allow these wars to be seen as inevitable and to continue uncontested, we hope to help avert the next war championed by those least likely to live with the horrific and decades‐long consequences. We describe our approach, its successes, and its stumbling blocks in hope of offering insights for scholars in the social sciences who wish to use their research in service of activist goals and social justice movements, antiwar and beyond.
Social axioms and psychological toll: A study of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive responses across 35 cultures during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ye Frank Tian‐fang , Hui Bryant P. H. , Ng Jacky C. K. , Lam Ben C. P. , Au Algae K. Y. , Wu Wesley C. H. , Ng Hilary K. Y. , Chen Sylvia Xiaohua
Published: May 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly affected the psychological well‐being of individuals worldwide. Previous research has indicated that values and beliefs, particularly social axioms, are associated with psychological responses during crises. However, most of the studies have focused on specific regions; the impact of social axioms on a global scale remains unclear. We conducted a multinational study comprising stratified samples of 18,171 participants from 35 cultures. Using multilevel modeling, we examined the associations between social axioms, personal worry, normative concerns, trust, and individuals' psychological responses to the pandemic. The results showed that greater personal worry and normative concerns predicted more negative psychological responses. Furthermore, the study also identified significant buffering effects at the societal level, as cultures with higher overall levels of fate control, religiosity, or reward for application exhibited weaker associations between personal worry and negative responses. Our findings reveal the influence of social axioms on psychological responses during the pandemic, with varying effects across cultures. The buffering effects of fate control, religiosity, and reward for application underscore the importance of considering cultural differences and individual variability when examining the impact of social axioms on psychological outcomes.
Baseline trait mindfulness moderates the efficacy of mindfulness interventions and active controls: A meta‐analysis of 177 randomised controlled trials
Authors: Sieder Kathrin , Thiedmann Phillip , Voracek Martin , Tran Ulrich S.
Published: May 2024

Previous evidence suggests that benefits of mindfulness‐based interventions (MBIs) may depend on individuals' baseline trait mindfulness (BTM) levels. This meta‐analysis investigated moderating effects of BTM on changes in mental health outcomes and trait mindfulness in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of MBIs. A total of 177 primary studies (total N = 13,486), comparing the treatment effects of MBIs against active, treatment‐as‐usual (TAU) and waitlist control groups, were synthesised via three‐level meta‐analysis. Lower BTM was associated with larger changes in mental health outcomes (B = −0.14, 95% CI [−0.21, −0.06], p < .001) and trait mindfulness (B = −0.09 [−0.16, −0.02], p = .009) in MBIs and active controls combined. These associations were significantly larger than from those in TAU and waitlist controls. Moderating effects were less tangible for changes in trait mindfulness in MBIs and active controls individually and less tangible in various sensitivity analyses which, however, were confounded by client type across the RCTs. Individuals low in BTM may, by a small effect size, benefit more from MBIs and active control interventions. BTM may thus affect the evaluation of treatment efficacy. MBIs and active interventions could be offered specifically to persons low in BTM.
Broadening the horizon of immune thrombocytopenia through Omics approaches
Authors: Kapur Rick
Published: May 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a highly heterogeneous autoimmune bleeding disorder characterized by low platelet counts due to an immune‐mediated platelet destruction and impaired platelet production. The pathophysiology is multifactorial and remains to be fully unravelled. Consequently, disease trajectories and responses to therapeutics, despite the availability of multiple agents, can be unpredictable and differing between patients. There is an urgent need for the identification of diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers, but this has proven to be challenging to achieve. To shed light on this, two studies in this issue of theBritish Journal of Haematologyhave recognized the opportunity of using high‐throughput Omics technologies in ITP. Sun et al. performed proteomics, and Li et al. metabolomics, on bone marrow biopsy samples of patients with ITP. This was conducted using mass spectrometry and, due to the generation of large datasets, in combination with machine learning. These studies set the stage for further investigations exploring the high potential of multi‐omics technologies in order to shed light on the heterogeneity in ITP, accelerating the path towards a much needed personalized medicine approach.

Commentary on: Li et al. Metabolomics profile and machine learning prediction of treatment responses in immune thrombocytopenia: A prospective cohort study. Br J Haematol 2024;204:2405‐2417.

Commentary on: Sun et al. Proteomics landscape and machine learning prediction of long‐term response to splenectomy in primary immune thrombocytopenia. Br J Haematol 2024;204:2418‐2428.
The 24‐h movement behaviours composition is associated with parasympathetic modulation in preschoolers
Authors: Pessoa Maria Luiza , Clark Cain , Souza Alesandra , Nakamura Fábio , Brasileiro‐Santos Maria do Socorro , Ribeiro André , Cristofaro Diego , Martins Clarice
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate the associations between 24‐h movement behaviours and heart rate variability (HRV) in preschool children.

Methods

A total of 123 preschoolers (4.52 ± 0.25 years old; 62 girls) were assessed for physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) using an accelerometer (Actigraph WGT3x). Sleep duration (SD) was parent‐reported. Children were laid down in a supine position for 10 min to assess HRV data. The R–R intervals recorded during the last 5 min of this period were analysed. We conducted compositional analysis in R studio, and the significance level was 95%. All ethical procedures were followed, and the study had the approval of the local ethical board.

Results

When considered as a composition, adjusted for age, body mass index and sex, the 24‐h movement composition (PA, SB and SD) significantly predicted better parasympathetic modulation (Root mean square of the successive differences [RMSSD] [p = 0.04; r2 = 0.13]), but not high frequency (HF) (nu) (p = 0.51, r2 = 0.01), low frequency (nu) (p = 0.52, r2 = 0.02),or standard deviation (standard deviation of normal‐to‐normal intervals) (p = 0.55, r2 = 0.02), respectively.

Conclusion

These results suggest the 24‐h movement composition predicted the RMSSD time‐domain index related to parasympathetic activity.
An assessment of future rewilding potential in the United Kingdom
Authors: Brown C. , Prestele R. , Rounsevell M.
Published: May 2024

Restoring ecosystems is an imperative for addressing biodiversity loss and climate change, and achieving the targets of the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. One form of restoration, rewilding, may have particular promise but may also be precluded by requirements for other forms of land use now or in the future. This opportunity space is critical but challenging to assess. We explored the potential area available for rewilding in Great Britain until the year 2080 with a multisectoral land‐use model with several distinct climatic and socioeconomic scenarios. By 2080, areas from 5000 to 7000 km2 were either unmanaged or managed in ways that could be consistent with rewilding across scenarios without conflicting with the provision of ecosystem services. Beyond these areas, another 24,000–42,000 km2 of extensive upland management could provide additional areas for rewilding if current patterns of implementation hold in the future. None of these areas, however, coincided reliably with ecosystems of priority for conservation: peatlands, ancient woodlands, or wetlands. Repeatedly, these ecosystems were found to be vulnerable to conversion. Our results are not based on an assumption of support for or benefits from rewilding and do not account for disadvantages, such as potential losses of cultural landscapes or traditional forms of management, that were beyond the modeled ecosystem services. Nevertheless, potential areas for rewilding emerge in a variety of ways, from intensification elsewhere having a substantial but inadvertent land‐sparing effect, popular demand for environmental restoration, or a desire for exclusive recreation among the wealthy elite. Our findings therefore imply substantial opportunities for rewilding in the United Kingdom but also a need for interventions to shape the nature and extent of that rewilding to maintain priority conservation areas and societal objectives.
Normal pressure hydrocephalus and cognitive impairment: The gait phenotype matters too
Authors: Morel Eric , Lingenberg Alma , Armand Stéphane , Assal Frédéric , Allali Gilles
Published: May 2024

Background and purpose

Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a chronic neurological disease resulting in progressive gait and cognitive disorders. We investigated whether the gait phenotype is associated with the severity of cognitive deficits in iNPH.

Methods

This retrospective study recruited 88 patients (mean age = 76.18 ± 7.21 years, 42% female). Patients were initially referred for suspicion of iNPH and underwent a comprehensive analysis, including gait analysis and cognitive evaluation.

Results

In this cohort (27% normal gait, 25% frontal gait, 16% parkinsonian gait, 27% other gait abnormalities), patients with parkinsonian and frontal gait had the lowest Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores and the slowest gait speed. Patients with normal gait had the highest MMSE scores and gait speed. Frontal gait was associated with lower MMSE score, even after adjusting for age, gender, comorbidities, white matter lesions, and education level (β = −0.221 [95% confidence interval (CI) = −3.718 to −0.150], p = 0.034). Normal gait was associated with the best MMSE scores, even after adjusting for the abovementioned variables (β = 0.231 [95% CI = 0.124–3.639], p = 0.036).

Conclusions

Gait phenotypes among iNPH patients are linked to global cognition as assessed with MMSE.
Muscle fibre morphometric analysis (MusMA) correlates with muscle function and cardiovascular risk prognosis
Authors: Longo Larisse , Bartikoski Bárbara Jonson , de Souza Valessa Emanoele Gabriel , Salvati Fernando , Uribe‐Cruz Carolina , Lenz Guido , Xavier Ricardo Machado , Álvares‐da‐Silva Mário Reis , Filippi‐Chiela Eduardo Cremonese
Published: May 2024

Morphometry of striated muscle fibres is critical for monitoring muscle health and function. Here, we evaluated functional parameters of skeletal and cardiac striated muscle in two experimental models using the Morphometric Analysis of Muscle Fibre tool (MusMA). The collagen‐induced arthritis model was used to evaluate the function of skeletal striated muscle and the non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease model was used for cardiac striated muscle analysis. After euthanasia, we used haeamatoxylin and eosin stained sections of skeletal and cardiac muscle to perform muscle fibre segmentation and morphometric analysis. Morphometric analysis classified muscle fibres into six subpopulations: normal, regular hypertrophic, irregular hypertrophic, irregular, irregular atrophic and regular atrophic. The percentage of atrophic fibres was associated with lower walking speed (p = 0.009) and lower body weight (p = 0.026), respectively. Fibres categorized as normal were associated with maximum grip strength (p < 0.001) and higher march speed (p < 0.001). In the evaluation of cardiac striated muscle fibres, the percentage of normal cardiomyocytes negatively correlated with cardiovascular risk markers such as the presence of abdominal adipose tissue (p = .003), miR‐33a expression (p = .001) and the expression of miR‐126 (p = .042) Furthermore, the percentage of atrophic cardiomyocytes correlated significantly with the Castelli risk index II (p = .014). MusMA is a simple and objective tool that allows the screening of striated muscle fibre morphometry, which can complement the diagnosis of muscle diseases while providing functional and prognostic information in basic and clinical research.
Immature platelet fraction as a systemic inflammation marker in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Absieh Nasser , Arslan Fatma , Doğan Özlem , Kaya Aslıhan Gürün , Öz Miraç , Erol Serhat , Çiledağ Aydın , Kaya Akın
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Recently, there has been an increasing interest to find a simple, low cost, widely available biomarker for outcome predictors in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

Absolute immature platelet count (AIPC), the percentage of AIPC to the total platelet count (immature platelet fraction [IPF%]), symptoms, spirometry results, age‐dyspne‐airflow obstruction index, and C‐reactive protein tests of COPD patients and control group were recorded. Neutrophil/lymphocyte, monocyte/lymphocyte, and platelet/lymphocyte ratios and Charlson comorbidity index scores were calculated.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐four COPD patients and 30 healthy control subjects were included in the study. Eighty‐nine patients were in exacerbation (AECOPD) and 45 of them were in stable COPD period. There was a difference between IPF% values and AIPC of COPD group and control group (3.45 ± 2.41 vs. 2.04 ± 1.12, p = 0.01; 5.87 ± 2.45 vs. 5.20 ± 3.02, p = 0.01). A positive correlation was observed between IPF% with white blood cell count and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, platelet/lymphocyte ratio, monocyte/lymphocyte ratio in all patients (r = 0.352, p < 0.001; r = 0.399, p < 0.001; r = 0.186, p = 0.032; r = 0.200, p = 0.021) and AECOPD (r = 0.356, p < 0.001; r = 0.414, p < 0.001; r = 0.239, p = 0.025; r = 0.273, p = 0.010). At a cut‐off of 3.4, IPF% showed the highest accuracy in identifying COPD (sensitivity: 80.3%, specificity: 82.5%) using receiver‐operating characteristic analysis.

Conclusion

This is the first study to examine the relationship between AIPC, IPF%, and COPD. The higher IPF% values in COPD and the positive correlation between IPF% and other inflammatory markers are suggested that IPF may be an indicator of systemic inflammation in COPD.
Detection of direct oral anticoagulants with the diluted Russel's viper venom time
Authors: Klöter Tristan , Metze Michael , Kunze Ronny , Stöbe Stephan , Siegemund Thomas , Siegemund Annelie , Henschler Reinhard , Laufs Ulrich , Petros Sirak , Pfrepper Christian
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The activity of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) is important in acute clinical situations. Recent studies have suggested a strong influence of DOAC on the diluted Russel's Viper Venom Time (dRVVT). Therefore, it may be a suitable screening parameter for antithrombotic plasma activity of different DOAC. This prospective study aims to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of dRVVT to detect residual DOAC activity at recommended plasma level thresholds.

Methods

A total of 80 patients were recruited, with 20 each treated with one of the four approved DOAC (apixaban, edoxaban, rivaroxaban or dabigatran), respectively. Blood plasma was collected before (baseline), at plasma peak time, and 6 and 12 h after DOAC. DRVVT was measured using the screen (LA1) and confirm (LA2) assay for lupus anticoagulant and compared with DOAC plasma levels. A reference range was calculated based on the dRVVT values of 61 healthy blood donors.

Results

All DOAC significantly prolonged the dRVVT especially at higher DOAC plasma levels. The LA1 time ≥41 s had a sensitivity ≥98% to detect edoxaban, dabigatran and rivaroxaban plasma levels ≥30 ng/mL but it was only 87% for apixaban. Sensitivity was ≥98% for all DOAC with the LA2 assay ≥36 s. The negative predictive value of a DOAC plasma level <30 ng/mL and dRVVT LA2 <36 s was 99%.

Conclusions

The dRVVT confirm assay (LA2) reliably detects residual DOAC plasma levels ≥30 ng/mL and could be useful to rapidly rule out relevant DOAC activity in emergency situations and to guide treatment decisions.
Assessing vacuum erectile devices effect on post‐radical prostatectomy erectile function
Authors: Varandas Mário , Santos Tiago , Dias Daniela , Sousa Inês
Published: May 2024

Introduction and Objective

Radical prostatectomy, as a treatment for prostate cancer, could lead to erectile dysfunction (ED) which affects the sexuality of patients and may have significant psychological impact and in quality of life. Vacuum erectile devices (VED) have emerged as a non‐invasive solution to aid post‐prostatectomy ED recovery. This study aims to assess the gains in erectile function (EF) with VED usage in patients submitted to Retzius‐sparing robot assisted radical prostatectomy (RS‐RARP) at 6‐ and 12‐months post‐surgery.

Materials and Methods

Between January 2022 and September 2022 our center performed 46 RS‐RARP, these patients had pre‐ and post‐operative evaluations every 3 months during the first‐year post‐surgery, led by urology nursing team. If ED was identified and/or patient reported intention to improve EF a penile rehabilitation programme (PRP) that included VED usage was recommended. We conducted a prospective observational single‐center study where EF was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF‐5) at 6‐ and 12‐months post‐surgery. We compared the results of patients that had IIEF‐5 score <15 at 6‐month mark and started using VED, with IIEF‐5 score at 12‐month mark. The inclusion criteria are: patients that did not have adjuvant or salvage treatments during the follow up; have post‐operative evaluations with IIEF‐5 at 6 and 12 months and started PRP. A total of 43 patients were included. We have considered ED rehabilitation if the patient had at least 5 points gain on IIEF‐5 score at 12 months versus IIEF‐5 at 6 months. Every patient provided written informed consent for study inclusion, approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee (Approval 07.07.2017).

Results

From the total of patients included, 22 had an IIEF‐5 score <15 at 6‐month mark. We recommended VED to 7 patients and 4 used a VED regularly. Regarding patients that used VED, 3 had better IIEF‐5 score at 12‐month mark comparing to 6‐month mark, with an average gain of 7,75 in IIEF‐5 score. Regarding the total of patients (n = 43), 16 still had IIEF‐5 score <15 at 12‐month mark.

Conclusion

This observational study underscores the potential benefits of VED in aiding EF recovery post RS‐RARP. Regular use of VED demonstrated significant improvement in IIEF‐5 score at 12‐month mark. Our findings suggest that integrating VED into the post RS‐RARP rehabilitation care plan could serve as an effective strategy for patients that do not respond effectively to phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Study limitations are small sample of patients that used VED and not having a stablished VED protocol. Further controlled trials are warranted to validate these findings and explore long‐terms effects.