bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of mechanical, optical, and fluoride‐releasing properties of a translucent bulk fill glass hybrid restorative dental material
Authors: Moshaverinia Maryam , de Almeida Queiroz Ferreira Luiza , Smidt Greta , Shah Kumar C. , Ansari Sahar , Moshaverinia Alireza
Published: November 2023

Objective

Measure and compare the mechanical properties, translucency, and fluoride‐releasing capabilities of EQUIA Forte HT against Fuji IX GP and ChemFil Rock.

Materials and Methods

Ten specimens of each material were fabricated for compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), and surface hardness analysis at 24 h and 7 days. The L*a*b* values were measured against a black‐and‐white background using a spectrophotometer to analyze the translucency parameter (TP). Fluoride release was recorded after 2 months of immersion in distilled water. The mean data was analyzed by 1‐ and 2‐way ANOVA (α = 0.5).

Results

EQUIA Forte HT showed higher CS, surface hardness, and FS values (p < 0.05) compared with Fuji IX GIC, while no significant difference was found in FS values between EQUIA Forte HT and Chemfil Rock (p > 0.05). The EQUIA Forte HT exhibited significantly higher translucency in comparison to both ChemFil Rock (p < 0.001) and Fuji IX GICs (p < 0.05). An increase (p > 0.05) of fluoride release was observed for EQUIA Forte HT.

Conclusion

The EQUIA Forte HT Glass‐ionomer cements (GIC) offers enhanced translucency, improved strength, and enhanced fluoride‐releasing properties compared to the traditionally used Fuji IX GIC and ChemFil Rock GICs. This material might have a wide range of clinical applications due to its improved strength and optical properties.

Clinical Significance

Glass‐ionomer dental restorative materials possess unique advantageous characteristics. However, its poor mechanical and optical properties have typically limited its clinical applications. Efforts to improve these properties have resulted in enhanced GICs. EQUIA Forte HT GIC offers enhanced mechanical and optical properties with potential applications in posterior and anterior restorative procedures.
From Fixed‐Event to Fixed‐Horizon Density Forecasts: Obtaining Measures of Multihorizon Uncertainty from Survey Density Forecasts
Authors: GANICS GERGELY , ROSSI BARBARA , SEKHPOSYAN TATEVIK
Published: November 2023

The U.S. Survey of Professional Forecasters produces precise and timely point forecasts for key macro‐economic variables. However, the accompanying density forecasts are mostly conducted for “fixed events.” For example, in each quarter, panelists predict output growth and inflation for the current calendar year and the next, hence the forecast horizon changes with each survey round. This limits the forecasts' usefulness to policymakers, researchers, and market participants. We propose a density combination approach that weights fixed‐event density forecasts, aiming at obtaining a correctly calibrated fixed‐horizon density forecast. We show that our method produces competitive density forecasts relative to widely used alternatives.
Transcriptome profile of subsynaptic myonuclei at the neuromuscular junction in embryogenesis
Authors: Ohkawara Bisei , Kurokawa Masaomi , Kanai Akinori , Imamura Kiyomi , Chen Guiying , Zhang Ruchen , Masuda Akio , Higashi Koichi , Mori Hiroshi , Suzuki Yutaka , Kurokawa Ken , Ohno Kinji
Published: November 2023

Skeletal muscle fiber is a large syncytium with multiple and evenly distributed nuclei. Adult subsynaptic myonuclei beneath the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) express specific genes, the products of which coordinately function in the maintenance of the pre‐ and post‐synaptic regions. However, the gene expression profiles that promote the NMJ formation during embryogenesis remain largely unexplored. We performed single‐nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA‐seq) analysis of embryonic and neonatal mouse diaphragms, and found that each myonucleus had a distinct transcriptome pattern during the NMJ formation. Among the previously reported NMJ‐constituting genes, Dok7, Chrna1, and Chrnd are specifically expressed in subsynaptic myonuclei at E18.5. In the E18.5 diaphragm, ca. 10.7% of the myonuclei express genes for the NMJ formation (Dok7, Chrna1, and Chrnd) together with four representative β‐catenin regulators (Amotl2, Ptprk, Fam53b, and Tcf7l2). Additionally, the temporal gene expression patterns of these seven genes are synchronized in differentiating C2C12 myoblasts. Amotl2 and Ptprk are expressed in the sarcoplasm, where β‐catenin serves as a structural protein to organize the membrane‐anchored NMJ structure. In contrast, Fam53b and Tcf7l2 are expressed in the myonucleus, where β‐catenin serves as a transcriptional coactivator in Wnt/β‐catenin signaling at the NMJ. In C2C12 myotubes, knockdown of Amotl2 or Ptprk markedly, and that of Fam53b and Tcf7l2 less efficiently, impair the clustering of acetylcholine receptors. In contrast, knockdown of Fam53b and Tcf7l2, but not of Amotl2 or Ptprk, impairs the gene expression of Slit2 encoding an axonal attractant for motor neurons, which is required for the maturation of motor nerve terminal. Thus, Amotl2 and Ptprk exert different roles at the NM compared to Fam53b and Tcf7l2. Additionally, Wnt ligands originating from the spinal motor neurons and the perichondrium/chondrocyte are likely to work remotely on the subsynaptic nuclei and the myotendinous junctional nuclei, respectively. We conclude that snRNA‐seq analysis of embryonic/neonatal diaphragms reveal a novel coordinated expression profile especially in the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling that regulate the formation of the embryonic NMJ.

image
Risk, trust, and altruism in genetic data sharing
Authors: Samad Zeeshan , Wooders Myrna , Malin Bradley , Vorobeychik Yevgeniy
Published: November 2023

How does concern about genetic data privacy compare with other concerns? We conduct behavioral experiments to compare risk attitudes towards sharing genetic data with a healthcare provider with risk attitudes towards sharing financial data with a money manager. Both scenarios involve identical decisions and monetary stakes, permitting us to focus on how the framing of data sharing influences attitudes. To delve deeper into individual motivations to share data, we provide treatments that study how data sharers' altruism and trust affect their decisions. Our findings (with 162 subjects) indicate that individuals are more willing to risk a loss to privacy of genetic data (for an anticipated return framed as health benefits) than they are to risk loss of financial data (for an anticipated return in financial benefits). We also find that 50%–60% of data recipients choose to protect another person's data, with no significant differences between frames.
The effect of maternal organic manganese supplementation on performance, immunological status, blood biochemical and antioxidant status of Afshari ewes and their newborn lambs in transition period
Authors: Asadi Mohammad , Toghdory Abdolhakim , Ghoorchi Taghi , Hatami Maryam
Published: November 2023

It has been documented that adequate maternal manganese (Mn) status is vital for performance and health of ewes and their newborn lambs. However, required level and form of dietary Mn in ruminants are not well defined. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of maternal organic Mn supplementation on performance, immunological status, blood biochemical and antioxidant status of Afshari ewes and their newborn lambs in transition period. For this purpose, various organic Mn concentrations were utilized as a supplementary ingredient in formulating the diets of ewes. The ewes were randomly allocated into three groups, fed with 0, and 80 mg/kg organic Mn supplemented diet. At the end of the experiment, the parameters including the performance of newborn lambs, as well as biochemical factors, immune status and antioxidant status in ewes and their newborn lambs were evaluated. The results showed a significant increase in the plasma concentrations of Mn, glucose, insulin, thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and enzymatic antioxidants (SOD, GPX, CAT) in ewes and their newborn lambs that were treated with maternal organic Mn. Moreover, inorganic Mn treatments, the concentration of IgG in newborn lamb's plasma, and colostrum of ewes increased. According to this research, organic Mn acts as a valuable and safe supplementary material that could be exploited for enhancing health of ewes and their newborn lambs.
Preclinical evaluation of a new synthetic carbonate apatite bone substitute on periodontal regeneration in intrabony defects
Authors: Imber Jean‐Claude , Imber Larissa Carmela , Roccuzzo Andrea , Stähli Alexandra , Muñoz Fernando , Weusmann Jens , Bosshardt Dieter Daniel , Sculean Anton
Published: November 2023

Objective

To evaluate the potential of a novel synthetic carbonate apatite bone substitute (CO3Ap‐BS) on periodontal regeneration.

Background

The use of various synthetic bone substitutes as a monotherapy for periodontal regeneration mainly results in a reparative healing pattern. Since xenografts or allografts are not always accepted by patients for various reasons, a synthetic alternative would be desirable.

Methods

Acute‐type 3‐wall intrabony defects were surgically created in 4 female beagle dogs. Defects were randomly allocated and filled with CO3Ap‐BS (test) and deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) or left empty (control). After 8 weeks, the retrieved specimens were scanned by micro‐CT, and the percentages of new bone, bone substitute, and soft tissues were evaluated. Thereafter, the tissues were histologically and histometrically analyzed.

Results

Healing was uneventful in all animals, and defects were present without any signs of adverse events. Formation of periodontal ligament and cementum occurred to varying extent in all groups without statistically significant differences between the groups. Residues of both bone substitutes were still present and showed integration into new bone. Histometry and micro‐CT revealed that the total mineralized area or volume was higher with the use of CO3Ap‐BS compared to control (66.06 ± 9.34%, 36.11 ± 6.40%; p = .014, or 69.74 ± 2.95%, 42.68 ± 8.68%; p = .014). The percentage of bone substitute surface covered by new bone was higher for CO3Ap‐BS (47.22 ± 3.96%) than for DBBM (16.69 ± 5.66, p = .114).

Conclusions

CO3Ap‐BS and DBBM demonstrated similar effects on periodontal regeneration. However, away from the root surface, more new bone, total mineralized area/volume, and higher osteoconductivity were observed for the CO3Ap‐BS group compared to the DBBM group. These findings point to the potential of CO3Ap‐BS for periodontal and bone regeneration.
SNP genotyping revealed a hybrid zone between Mytilus chilensis and M. platensis in southern South America (the Strait of Magellan, Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands)
Authors: Jilberto Felipe , Zbawicka Malgorzata , Wenne Roman , Larraín María Angélica , Araneda Cristián
Published: November 2023

Hybrid zones among mussel species have been extensively studied in the northern hemisphere. In South America, it has only recently become possible to study the natural hybrid zones, due to the clarification of the taxonomy of native mussels of the Mytilus genus. Analysing 54 SNP markers, we show the genetic species composition and admixture in the hybrid zone between M. chilensis and M. platensis in the southern end of South America. Bayesian, non‐Bayesian clustering and re‐assignment algorithms showed that the natural hybrid zone between M. chilensis and M. platensis in the Strait of Magellan, Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands shows clinal architecture. The hybrid zone can be divided into three different areas: the first one is on the Atlantic coast where only pure M. platensis and hybrid were found. In the second one, inside the Strait of Magellan, pure individuals of both species and mussels with variable degrees of hybridisation coexist. In the last area at the Strait in front of Punta Arenas City, fjords on the Isla Grande de Tierra del Fuego, and at the Beagle Channel, only M. chilensis and a low number of hybrids were found. According to the proportion of hybrids, bays with protected conditions away from strong currents would give better conditions for hybridisation. We do not find evidence of any other mussel species such as M. edulis, M. galloprovincialis, M. planulatus or M. trossulus in the zone.
Examining trajectories of marital satisfaction to represent the resilience process among Indonesian married individuals
Authors: Surijah Edwin Adrianta , Murray Kate , Wraith Darren , Shochet Ian
Published: November 2023

Marriage is an important milestone for many adults, and notably in Indonesia, where marriage is also considered a personal accomplishment and social obligation. Research has found being married is associated with greater well‐being, but marriages also face challenges. Resilience, defined as successfully adapting to challenges, is a potential concept to help married individuals maintain or regain adaptation despite challenges in marriages. This is the first relationship study in Indonesia to examine resilience trajectories as represented by marital satisfaction. A weekly repeated measure design was conducted among 135 Indonesian married individuals. Participants reported their experiences of intradyadic and extradyadic stress, and marital satisfaction over 6 weeks. Growth mixture modeling and multinomial logistic regression were used to examine unobserved marital satisfaction trajectories and to estimate the impact of intradyadic and extradyadic stress on trajectory membership. Results suggested three unobserved trajectories: high, moderate, and low levels of marital satisfaction. Higher levels of intradyadic and extradyadic stress increased the probability of belonging to lower satisfaction trajectories. This evidence could be invaluable in helping Indonesian married individuals to better adapt to challenges they face. Future studies can explore protective factors associated with a high satisfaction trajectory to assist married Indonesians in successfully adapting to stress.
Trait variation along an urban–rural gradient in Asian dayflower: the contribution of phenotypic plasticity and genetic divergence
Authors: Taichi N. , Ushimaru A.
Published: November 2023

Environmental changes associated with urbanisation can exert pressure that facilitates both adaptations and plastic responses in plants. Field surveys or common garden experiments (CGE) alone cannot differentiate between the observed phenotypic traits resulting from plastic responses versus evolutionary adaptations to urban environments.

We conducted a field survey of habitat environmental factors and four vegetative traits in 12 Commelina communis populations along an urban–rural gradient in the Osaka‐Kobe megacity area. We collected seedlings from six of the 12 populations, transplanted them into a greenhouse, and measured six vegetative traits. We investigated correlations between pairs of measured traits in both the field survey and CGE.

Plant height and leaf area increased significantly in increasingly developed land areas (DLA) in the field survey, whereas no such variations were found in the CGE, suggesting that the observed phenotypic variation was due to a plastic response to urban eutrophication. Leaf number and specific leaf area (SLA) significantly decreased with increasing DLA in the CGE, suggesting the adaptation of these traits to urban environments. Positive correlations between plant height and leaf area were only observed in urban populations in both the field survey and CGE, indicating the evolution of this trait correlation in urban environments.

It has been suggested that urban environments promote both plastic response and genetic divergence of a set of traits in native plants. Our findings suggest that low leaf number, SLA, and positive plant height–leaf area correlations have evolved. In addition, larger plant size is achieved via phenotypic plasticity in urban environments.
Synergistic action of Pseudomonas fluorescens with melatonin attenuates salt toxicity in mustard by regulating antioxidant system and flavonoid profile
Authors: Khan Varisha , Umar Shahid , Iqbal Noushina
Published: November 2023

Salt stress is an alarming abiotic stress that reduces mustard growth and yield. To attenuate salt toxicity effects, plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) offers a sustainable approach. Among the various PGPR, Pseudomonas fluorescens (P. fluorescens NAIMCC‐B‐00340) was chosen for its salt tolerance (at 100 mM NaCl) and for exhibiting various growth‐promoting activities. Notably, P. fluorescens can produce auxin, which plays a role in melatonin (MT) synthesis. Melatonin is a pleiotropic molecule that acts as an antioxidant to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in stress reduction. Owing to the individual role of PGPR and MT in salt tolerance, and their casual nexus, their domino effect was investigated in Indian mustard under salt stress. The synergistic action of P. fluorescens and MT under salt stress conditions was found to enhance the activity of antioxidative enzymes and proline content as well as  promote the production of secondary metabolites. This led to reduced oxidative stress following effective ROS scavenging, maintained photosynthesis, and improved growth. In mustard plants treated with MT and P. fluorescens under salt stress, eight flavonoids showed significant increase. Kaempferol and cyanidin showed the highest concentrations and are reported to act as antioxidants with protective functions under stress. Thus, we can anticipate that strategies involved in their enhancement could provide a better adaptive solution to salt toxicity in mustard plants.

In conclusion, the combination of P. fluorescens and MT affected antioxidant metabolism and flavonoid profile that could be used to mitigate salt‐induced stress and bolster plant resilience.
Leaf surface features of maize cultivars and response to foliar phosphorus application: effect of leaf stage and plant phosphorus status
Authors: Henningsen Jon Niklas , Venturas Martin David , Quintero José Manuel , Garrido Ramiro Recena , Mühling Karl Hermann , Fernández Victoria
Published: November 2023

Soil phosphorus (P) application is the most common fertilisation technique but may involve constraints due to chemical fixation and microbial immobilisation. Furthermore, excessive P fertilisation leads to P runoff into water bodies, threatening ecosystems, so targeted foliar P fertilisation is an interesting alternative. This study aimed to determine the importance of leaf surface characteristics for foliar P uptake in P‐deficient maize (Zea mays L.). The leaf surface of four maize cultivars was characterised by electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and contact angle measurements. Uptake of foliar‐applied P by maize cultivars was estimated, measuring also leaf photosynthetic rates after foliar P spraying. Plants of cultivar P7948 were found to be wettable from the 4th leaf in acropetal direction, whereas other cultivars were unwettable until the 6th leaf had developed. Minor variations in stomatal number and cuticle composition were recorded, but no differences in foliar P absorption were observed between cultivars. Nevertheless, cultivars showed variation in the improvement of photosynthetic capacity following foliar P application. Phosphorus deficiency resulted in ultrastructural disorganisation of mesophyll cells and chloroplasts, which impaired photosynthetic performance, yet there was no effect on stomatal frequency and leaf wettability. This study provides new insights into the influence of P deficiency and cultivar on leaf surface characteristics, foliar P uptake and its effect on physiological processes. Understanding the relationships between leaf characteristics and P uptake allows a more targeted evaluation of foliar P fertilisation as an application technique and contributes to the understanding of foliar uptake mechanisms.
Periodontitis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: A critical appraisal
Authors: Carra Maria Clotilde , Rangé Hélène , Caligiuri Giuseppina , Bouchard Philippe
Published: November 2023

In spite of intensive research efforts driving spectacular advances in terms of prevention and treatments, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading health burden, accounting for 32% of all deaths (World Health Organization. “Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).” WHO, February 1, 2017,https://www.who.int/news‐room/fact‐sheets/detail/cardiovascular‐diseases‐(cvds)). Cardiovascular diseases are a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels. They encompass a collection of different conditions, among which atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the most prevalent. CVDs caused by atherosclerosis, that is, ASCVD, are particularly fatal: with heart attack and stroke being together the most prevalent cause of death in the world. To reduce the health burden represented by ASCVD, it is urgent to identify the nature of the “residual risk,” beyond the established risk factors (e.g., hypertension) and behavioral factors already maximally targeted by drugs and public health campaigns. Remarkably, periodontitis is increasingly recognized as an independent cardiovascular risk factor.
Protective roles of meditation practice and self‐esteem on cognitive functions over time: findings from the Midlife in the United States study
Authors: Bhattacharyya Kallol Kumar , Gupta Debasree Das , Schwartz Sarah , Molinari Victor , Fauth Elizabeth B.
Published: November 2023

Background

Cognitive function is an important component of healthy ageing. However, it is unclear whether relaxation/meditation practices provide cognitive benefits, particularly in midlife and early late life. Meditative practices are associated with higher self‐esteem, and self‐esteem serves as a general protective factor for many health outcomes. The current study examines associations between meditation practice, self‐esteem, and change over 10 years in midlife cognitive performance.

Methods

Data were from waves 2 (2003–2004) and 3 (2013–2014) of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study. We used structural equation modelling to examine whether persistent meditation practice at both waves or episodic practice at one wave is associated with better cognitive function over 10 years, compared to no meditation practice, while controlling for prior cognitive function and covariates (baseline socio‐demographics, health, and functional status). Additionally, we assessed if self‐esteem mediates the above associations.

Results

We included 2168 individuals (Mage = 65 ± 11). After controlling for covariates, the findings revealed that persistent meditation practice in both waves was associated with significantly less decline in episodic memory; however, no such effects were found for executive function. Further, although participants' higher self‐esteem was significantly associated with less decline in executive function and episodic memory, it did not mediate the associations between meditation practice and cognitive functions.

Conclusions

While both persistent meditation practice and self‐esteem have associations with cognitive outcomes for middle‐aged and older adults in MIDUS, self‐esteem as a mediator was not supported. Thus, future investigations should examine mechanisms that underlie these protective factors on cognitive performances across adulthood.
Reconstructing Atonement: Some New Lines of EnquiryParticipation and Atonement: An Analytic and Constructive Account, Oliver D.Crisp, Baker Academic, 2022 (ISBN 978‐0‐8010‐4996‐5), xii + 260 pp., hb $29.99.Rethinking the Atonement: New Perspectives on Jesus's Death, Resurrection, and Ascension, David M.Moffitt, Baker Academic, 2022 (ISBN 978‐1‐5409‐6623‐0), xxii + 298 pp., pb $35.Mapping Atonement: The Doctrine of Reconciliation in Christian History and Theology, William G.Witt and JoelScandrett, Baker Academic, 2022 (ISBN 978‐0‐8010‐3068‐0), xii + 244 pp., pb $27.99
Authors: Dominiak Paul
Published: November 2023

The doctrine of the atonement faces apparently insurmountable complex contemporary challenges around the diversity of scriptural images, variety of postbiblical accounts and disagreements over what ought to be permissible in theological discourse. This article reviews these challenges, develops how three recent works attempt to overcome them and evaluates why these attempts at reconstructing atonement should be cautiously welcomed.
Whose Church? Which Unity?That We May Be One: Practicing Unity in a Divided Church, Gary B.Agee, Eerdmans, 2022 (ISBN 978‐0‐8028‐8186‐1), xviii + 150 pp., pb $19.99Winsome Conviction: Disagreeing Without Dividing the Church, TimMuehlhoff and RichardLanger, InterVarsity Press, 2020 (ISBN 978‐0‐8380‐4799‐0), x + 214 pp., pb $17
Authors: Waldron Stephen
Published: November 2023

These two recent books each offer guidance to Christians in the United States on pursuing unity in the midst of social, moral, political, and theological divisions. They offer two distinct approaches: one relying mainly on relevant academic research and the other drawing mostly on a pastoral appeal. They also target different audiences: one an explicitly theologically conservative evangelical ‘church’, the other a ‘church’ including all professed Christians. This review argues that both have different strengths. While Agee's approach is ultimately more promising for addressing the underlying causes of disunity among Christians, Muehlhoff and Langer offer well‐founded tactics for mutual understanding within a more limited group of Christians.
Evaluation of oral manifestations and head and neck lymphadenopathy in newly diagnosed acute leukemia patients
Authors: Pamukcu Umut , Dal Mehmet Sinan , Yaman Samet , Aslan Candır Burcu , Bozan Ersin , Secilmis Sema , Acik Kemaloglu Sibel , Altuntas Fevzi , Peker Ilkay
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To determine the frequency of head and neck lymphadenopathy (LAP) and intraoral findings (non‐dental/dental) in patients with newly diagnosed acute leukemia (AL).

Subjects and methods

Twenty‐eight (52.8%) females and 25 (47.2%) males in a total of 53 patients with newly diagnosed AL with a mean age of 46 years were included in the study. Personal information, the type of AL (AML [acute myelogenous leukemia]/ALL [acute lymphocytic leukemia]), and hematological findings (anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia) were obtained from medical records. One of two calibrated oral diagnosis and maxillofacial radiology specialists performed extraoral (head and neck LAPs) and intraoral (non‐dental and dental) clinical examinations. The Chi‐square (χ2) test was used to evaluate categorical variables.

Results

LAP was observed in 22.6% and intraoral findings in 30.2% of the patients. LAP was most commonly observed in the neck and none in the parotid glands. The most intraoral findings were gingival/mucosal bleeding and oral petechiae/ecchymosis. While there was no statistical difference between AML and ALL patients in terms of LAP (p > .05), intraoral findings were observed more in patients with AML (p < .05). Only two (3.8%) patients had dental findings. With a slight difference, intraoral findings were more with thrombocytopenia and LAP with neutropenia.

Conclusion

In AL, especially non‐dental intraoral findings are common. The fact that dentists working in the oral cavity are often the first specialists to encounter the oral manifestations of AL imposes an important role in early diagnosis and treatment.
Care relationship and interaction between patients and ambulance clinicians: A qualitative meta‐synthesis from a person‐centred perspective
Authors: Tikkanen Viivi , Sundberg Kay
Published: November 2023

Background

Ambulance care is characterised by disaster medicine, traumatology and care for acute illnesses and accidents. The focus of ambulance care is clearly on medical care, whereas interpersonal interaction between patients and ambulance clinicians appears less prioritised. A patient within ambulance care needs to be listened to, be taken seriously, be treated with empathy and be seen as a unique person. These are fundamental to delivering Person‐centred care.

Aim

The purpose is to describe how the care relationship and interaction between patients and ambulance clinicians in prehospital emergency care are described in the literature and how they can be interpreted from a person‐centred perspective.

Data Sources and Review Methods

A qualitative meta‐synthesis was used. Data collection was carried out with PubMed, CINAHL Plus and Web of Science in September–October 2022 and in August–September 2023. The first article searching applied a timeline 1990–2022 and the second applied a timeline 2022–2023. A total of 13 studies employing a qualitative approach were evaluated and included in the interpretive analysis.

Results

Three themes were identified: A good care relationship, Decision‐making and Hindrances to practising person‐centred care in ambulance care. Trust, good communication and respect for patients' dignity were the most important parts of the good care relationship between patients and ambulance clinicians. Decision‐making regarding the examination of patients, medical treatment and transport to the receiving care unit was one of the tasks that ambulance clinicians do independently but in cooperation with patients and family members. Person‐centred care within ambulance care may be hindered due to environmental factors, attitudes and behaviour of ambulance clinicians and patient‐related factors.

Conclusion

Many ambulance clinicians have already adopted Person‐centred care, but several factors can hinder Person‐centred care in interactions with patients. Although the results build on a limited number of studies, they indicate that person‐centred care needs to be further developed and studied for high‐quality ambulance care.
What policy functions are reflected in the distribution of financial support for parents by child age and birth order? An analysis of 28 European countries
Authors: Fidanovski Kristijan
Published: November 2023

Motivated by the growing prominence of fertility incentivisation and long‐term child development in European family policymaking, this paper examines the distribution of financial support for parents over the course of childhood and between birth orders in Europe. We use the term ‘older‐oriented age bias’ to refer to support that is more generous for older children and the term ‘younger‐oriented age bias’ for more generous support for younger children. Similarly, we refer to distribution patterns tilted towards later birth orders as ‘later‐oriented parity bias’ and to those that favour earlier birth orders as ‘earlier‐oriented parity bias’. Based on a list of four classical policy functions of financial support for parents (child cost compensation, fertility incentivisation, child poverty reduction, and child development), we formulate six (sets of) hypotheses for the age and parity distribution of financial support for parents. To assess these distribution patterns, we examine monthly financial support (allowance‐ and tax‐based) for the first four birth orders at child ages 2, 9, and 17 in low‐income and middle‐income households across 28 European countries as of January 2021. We find that European welfare states typically provide more generous support for younger children, while the support distribution in terms of birth orders depends on pre‐support household income. We also find considerable cross‐country heterogeneity, with fertility incentivisation and (especially) child development being reflected by more countries than child cost compensation and poverty reduction. Our analysis sheds light on previously underexplored trends and implications in the design of financial support for parents in Europe.
Ectopic expression of a bacterial thiamin monophosphate kinase enhances vitamin B1 biosynthesis in plants
Authors: Chung Yi‐Hsin , Chen Ting‐Chieh , Yang Wen‐Ju , Chen Soon‐Ziet , Chang Jia‐Ming , Hsieh Wei‐Yu , Hsieh Ming‐Hsiun
Published: November 2023

Plants and bacteria have distinct pathways to synthesize the bioactive vitamin B1 thiamin diphosphate (TDP). In plants, thiamin monophosphate (TMP) synthesized in the TDP biosynthetic pathway is first converted to thiamin by a phosphatase, which is then pyrophosphorylated to TDP. In contrast, bacteria use a TMP kinase encoded by ThiL to phosphorylate TMP to TDP directly. The Arabidopsis THIAMIN REQUIRING2 (TH2)‐encoded phosphatase is involved in TDP biosynthesis. The chlorotic th2 mutants have high TMP and low thiamin and TDP. Ectopic expression of Escherichia coli ThiL and ThiL‐GFP rescued the th2‐3 mutant, suggesting that the bacterial TMP kinase could directly convert TMP into TDP in Arabidopsis. These results provide direct evidence that the chlorotic phenotype of th2‐3 is caused by TDP rather than thiamin deficiency. Transgenic Arabidopsis harboring engineered ThiL‐GFP targeting to the cytosol, chloroplast, mitochondrion, or nucleus accumulated higher TDP than the wild type (WT). Ectopic expression of E. coli ThiL driven by the UBIQUITIN (UBI) promoter or an endosperm‐specific GLUTELIN1 (GT1) promoter also enhanced TDP biosynthesis in rice. The pUBI:ThiL transgenic rice accumulated more TDP and total vitamin B1 in the leaves, and the pGT1:ThiL transgenic lines had higher TDP and total vitamin B1 in the seeds than the WT. Total vitamin B1 only increased by approximately 25–30% in the polished and unpolished seeds of the pGT1:ThiL transgenic rice compared to the WT. Nevertheless, these results suggest that genetic engineering of a bacterial vitamin B1 biosynthetic gene downstream of TMP can enhance vitamin B1 production in rice.
Maternal outcomes following postpartum autotransfusion of blood lost during vaginal obstetric hemorrhage
Authors: Phillips Jaclyn M. , Larkin Jacob , Waters Jonathan H. , Tamura Takahiro , Sakamoto Sara
Published: November 2023

Background

Autotransfusion following vaginal delivery has not been as widely adopted and existing data on this topic are limited to small case series.

Methods

This is a single‐center retrospective matched cohort study. Deliveries exposed to autotransfusion during obstetric hemorrhage were matched to unexposed controls with obstetric hemorrhage who did not receive autotransfusion. The primary outcome was allogeneic transfusion of packed red blood cells. Planned secondary analyses included change in hemoglobin following delivery, composite maternal safety outcomes, and unplanned postpartum health care utilization.

Results

Thirty‐six deliveries exposed to autotransfusion were matched to 144 unexposed controls. There was no significant difference in allogenic transfusion of packed red blood cells in the patients exposed to autotransfusion red with unexposed controls (adjusted OR 1.1; 95% CI 0.5–2.4). Deliveries that received autotransfusion had a less severe pre‐ to post‐delivery decline in hemoglobin compared with unexposed controls across all values of QBL (p = .003). There were no significant differences in maternal morbidity outcomes evaluated in exposed versus unexposed deliveries.

Conclusion

Autotransfusion in cases of vaginal obstetric hemorrhage did not attenuate rates of allogenic packed red blood cell transfusion but did result in a less severe pre‐ to postdelivery decline in hemoglobin at discharge. Autotransfusion cases did not have any markers of increased maternal morbidity when compared with a control group. These findings support emerging evidence indicating that autotransfusion of blood lost during vaginal obstetric hemorrhage is a safe and potentially effective tool for use in the management of obstetric hemorrhage.
Influence of environmental factors on seed germination and seedling emergence of Amaranthus blitoides S. Watson and A. hybridus L.
Authors: Talaee M. , Rezvani M. , Radmard M. , Sindel B. M.
Published: November 2023

Amaranthus blitoides S. Watson and A. hybridus L. are common herbaceous annual summer weeds in different regions of Iran, which produce a large number of small seeds per plant. The goal of these experiments was to determine seed germination cardinal temperature and investigate the effect of constant temperature, osmotic and salt stresses, stratification, flooding duration, after‐ripening and seed planting depth on seed germination and seedling emergence. Two‐piece segmented, dent‐like and beta four‐parameter models were used to investigate the relationship between germination rate and constant temperature. The dent‐like model showed the best description of the effect of constant temperature on seed germination rate of both A. blitoides and A. hybridus. Optimal seed germination of A. blitoides occurred at 35°C, but in A. hybridus optimum germination was observed in a range of constant temperatures from 30 to 40°C. Osmotic and salt stresses and flooding adversely affected seed germination of both species. After ripening for 6 months increased germination percentage of both A. blitoides and A. hybridus. Maximum seedling emergence of A. blitoides (42.8%) and A. hybridus (44.9%) occurred at a planting depth of 3.3 cm, whereas further increased planting depth minimized seedling emergence of both weeds. Information obtained from this study will help us to develop effective techniques for management of A. blitoides and A. hybridus.
Rethinking international financing for health to better respond to future pandemics
Authors: Xu Ming , Benn Christoph , Reid-Henry Simon , Brown Tim , Zhou Shuduo , Yang Jian , Chen Ying , Wang Zhebin
Published: November 2023

International financing for health has been high on the political and global health agenda since COVID-19. The recent launch of the Pandemic Fund represents the first consolidated effort of the international community to mobilise additional voluntary financial resources for the purpose of strengthening global efforts in pandemic prevention, preparedness and response (PPR). Against such a dynamic landscape, building on recent critiques and new policy proposals, we propose a new generation of more equitable, effective and coordinated financing arrangements for pandemic PPR and for global health and development more broadly: lessons that could be applied in the ongoing endeavour of the Pandemic Fund. We also explore the principles of Global Public Investment and consider their potential to achieve greater inclusiveness in governance, diversity in financing, and transparency and performance in operations. The Pandemic Fund could become the first example of a global health initiative based on innovative concepts. It needs to be broad based, more flexible, leverage a great variety of funding sources and join forces with multiple stakeholders to maximise the impact.
Socioeconomic status and severe mental disorders: a bidirectional multivariable Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Andreu-Bernabeu Álvaro , González-Peñas Javier , Arango Celso , Díaz-Caneja Covadonga M
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite the evidence supporting the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and severe mental disorders (SMD), the directionality of the associations between income or education and mental disorders is still poorly understood.

Objective

To investigate the potential bidirectional causal relationships between genetic liability to the two main components of SES (income and educational attainment (EA)) on three SMD: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (BD) and depression.

Methods

We performed a bidirectional, two-sample univariable Mendelian randomisation (UVMR) and multivariable Mendelian randomisation (MVMR) study using SES phenotypes (income, n=397 751 and EA, n=766 345) and SMD (schizophrenia, n=127 906; BD, n=51 710 and depression, n=500 119) genome-wide association studies summary—statistics to dissect the potential direct associations of income and EA with SMD.

Findings

UVMR showed that genetic liability to higher income was associated with decreased risk of schizophrenia and depression, with a smaller reverse effect of schizophrenia and depression on income. Effects were comparable after adjusting for EA in the MVMR. UMVR showed bidirectional negative associations between genetic liability to EA and depression and positive associations between genetic liability to EA and BD, with no significant effects on schizophrenia. After accounting for income, MVMR showed a bidirectional positive direction between genetic liability to EA and BD and schizophrenia but not with depression.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a heterogeneous link pattern between SES and SMD. We found a negative bidirectional association between genetic liability to income and the risk of schizophrenia and depression. On the contrary, we found a positive bidirectional relationship of genetic liability to EA with schizophrenia and BD, which only becomes apparent after adjusting for income in the case of schizophrenia.

Clinical implications

These findings shed light on the directional mechanisms between social determinants and mental disorders and suggest that income and EA should be studied separately in relation to mental illness.
Impact of social networks and norms on e-cigarette use among adolescents in Southern California: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Piombo Sarah Elizabeth , Barrington-Trimis Jessica , Valente Thomas W
Published: November 2023

Objective

Using social network analysis, we assessed the mechanisms of social influence that promote e-cigarette use in adolescent networks.

Methods

Data on health behaviours and friendship networks from a cohort of 10 high schools in Southern California (N=1599) were collected in grade 9 Spring 2021 (W1), grade 10 Fall 2021 (W2) and Spring 2022 (W3). Two mixed effects logistic regression models were estimated (full sample and subsample of non-vapers only) to evaluate the associations of W1 and W2 pro-vaping norms, peer e-cigarette use exposure and prior e-cigarette use (full sample) on past 6-month vaping at W3, adjusting for demographic covariates and school clustering.

Results

Previous vaping was the strongest predictor of past 6-month vaping at W3 among the full sample. Greater exposure to friend e-cigarette use at W2 (adjusted OR (AOR)=12.2, 95% CI 4.04 to 36.5) and greater pro-vaping norms at W2 (AOR=2.63, 95% CI 1.24 to 5.55) were significantly and positively associated with increased odds of initiating e-cigarette use at W3 among students with no lifetime e-cigarette use.

Conclusion

Peer network exposure and pro-vaping norms are significant predictors of vaping initiation even when network vaping prevalence is low.
Relationship of cardiorenal risk factors with albuminuria based on age, smoking, glycaemic status and BMI: a retrospective cohort study of the UK Biobank data
Authors: Kar Debasish , El-Wazir Aya , Nath Mintu , Breeze Penny , Jetha Karim , Strong Mark , Chilcott Jim , Davies Melanie Jane , Lee Andrew , Lusignan Simon de , Khunti Kamlesh , Adler Amanda , Goyder Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Smoking is harmful, and its cessation is recommended to prevent chronic kidney disease, which often begins with abnormal leakage of albumin in the urine, called albuminuria. Smoking cessation’s effect on albuminuria depends on the pack-years smoked, length of abstinence, body mass index (BMI) and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c). Using the UK Biobank data, we examined the relationship between these cardiorenal variables and albuminuria.

Methods

For this study, we selected a UK Biobank cohort with urinary albumin concentration (UAC) in the first and second visits. Participants were divided into progressor and regressor groups, where progressors were defined as those with increased UAC value, and regressors were those with decreased UAC value. Three different logistic regression models were fitted. In model 1, with a cohort design, we explored the impact of a change in age, HbA1c and BMI between the first and second visits and the UAC. In model 2 and 3, in a cross-sectional design, we explored which cardiorenal risk factors were associated with a rise or fall of UAC at the time point of the second visit. Results are expressed in OR and 95% CI.

Results

The prevalence of albuminuria was highest in ex-smokers who started smoking between the ages of 13 and 18. With a mean duration of 51 months, there was no statistically significant relationship between smoking status and BMI with albuminuria. Each year of ageing and each unit of increase in HbA1c (mmol/mol) increased the odds of progression of albuminuria by 20% and 3%, respectively. In ex-smokers, at the time point of the second visit, each year of smoking increased, and each year of abstinence decreased the odds by 4% and 6%, respectively.

Conclusion

Smokers should be supported to stop smoking and remain abstinent despite short-term weight gain. Childhood smoking should be actively discouraged.
Effect of menstrual cycle and contraceptive pill phase on aspects of exercise physiology and athletic performance in female athletes: protocol for theFeminaeinternational multisite innovative project
Authors: Elliott Sale Kirsty J , Flood Tessa R , Arent Shawn M , Dolan Eimear , Saunders Bryan , Hansen Mette , Ihalainen Johanna K , Mikkonen Ritva S , Minahan Clare , Thornton Jane S , Ackerman Kathryn E , Lebrun Constance M , Sale Craig , Stellingwerff Trent , Swinton Paul A , Hackney Anthony C
Published: November 2023

The idiom‘more high-quality research is needed’ has become the slogan for sport and exercise physiology-based research in female athletes. However, in most instances, it is challenging to address this gap of high-quality research in elite female athletes at a single study site due to challenges in recruiting enough participants with numerous menstrual cycle and contraceptive pill permutations. Accordingly, we have assembled an international multisite team to undertake an innovative project for female athletes, which investigates the effects of changes in endogenous and exogenous oestrogen and progesterone/progestins across the menstrual cycle and in response to second-generation combined monophasic contraceptive pill use, on aspects of exercise physiology and athletic performance. This project will employ the current gold-standard methodologies in this area, resulting in an adequately powered dataset. This protocol paper describes the consortium-based approach we will undertake during this study.
Guidelines for immunological analyses following focused ultrasound treatment
Authors: Padilla Frederic , Foley Jessica , Timbie Kelsie , Bullock Timothy N J , Sheybani Natasha D
Published: November 2023

Focused ultrasound (FUS) is a powerful emerging tool for non-invasive, non-ionizing targeted destruction of tumors. The last two decades have seen a growing body of preclinical and clinical literature supporting the capacity of FUS to increase nascent immune responses to tumors and to potentiate cancer immunotherapies (e.g. checkpoint inhibitors) through a variety of means, including immune modulation and drug delivery. With the rapid acceleration of this field and a multitude of FUS immunotherapy clinical trials having now been deployed worldwide, there is a need to streamline and standardize the methodology for immunological analyses field-wide. Recently, the Focused Ultrasound Foundation and Cancer Research Institute partnered to convene a group of over 85 leaders to discuss the nexus of FUS and immuno-oncology. The guidelines documented herein were assembled in response to recommendations that emerged from this discussion, emphasizing the urgent need for heightened accessibility of immune analysis methods and standardized protocols unique to the field. These guidelines are designated for existing stakeholders in the FUS immuno-oncology domain or those newly entering the field, to provide guidance on collection, storage, and immunological profiling of tissue or blood specimens in the context of FUS immunotherapy studies, and additionally offer templates for standardized deployment of these methods based on collective experience gained within the field to date. These guidelines are tumor-agnostic and provide evidence-based, consensus-based recommendations for both preclinical and clinical immune analysis of tissue and blood specimens.