bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing (in)equity through public policy and local governance systems: A case study of Queensland, Australia
Authors: Reddel Tim , Lata Lutfun Nahar , Young Charlotte , Yates Miriam , McDaid Lisa
Published: November 2024

Equity is a core social value that is widely debated in its conceptualisation and inclusion into policymaking and service delivery. Policymakers and street‐level actors often disagree about or have limited interest in defining (in)equity, leading to a lack of consensus about how to make measurable and long‐lasting impact for populations and communities experiencing disadvantage. Within this context, this paper draws on governance concepts such as hierarchy, market dimensions, and network dimensions to analyse key insights from in‐depth stakeholder interviews (N = 25) with government and non‐government actors in Queensland, Australia. The paper (1) examines the extent barriers to equity are created, reinforced, or reduced by centralised and street‐level public governance approaches and (2) determines what (and where) the opportunities are to address these barriers and build a systemic approach to achieve equity. The paper highlights important tensions for actors tackling issues of inequity, including centralised or distant policymakers and government and non‐government street‐level practitioners operating within disjointed systems for policy, delivery, and funding. Notwithstanding the increasingly prevalent ‘partnership’ narrative, the foundations remain anchored in policy and management practices that have been built on longstanding neo‐liberal market mechanisms or the ‘contract state’. A more integrated and adaptive approach that aligns high‐level policymaking with street‐level practitioners and local communities should be an important pillar in navigating these competing priorities and challenges.

Points for practitioners

Equity is debated both conceptually and in policymaking and practice, leading to a lack of consensus about how to design and implement effective solutions.

Many universal policies and programs are designed and implemented in rigid silos, are not joined‐up, and have limited impact on the economic and social policy drivers of inequity and entrenched disadvantage.

A more adaptive and collaborative approach that aligns high‐level governance and policymaking with street‐level practitioners and local voices is possible but challenging to sustain.
The impact of a payer‐provider joint venture on healthcare value
Authors: Garabedian Laura F. , Wharam J. Frank , Newhouse Joseph P. , Lakoma Matthew , Argetsinger Stephanie , Zhang Fang , Galbraith Alison A.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To examine how a novel payer‐provider joint venture (JV) between one payer and multiple competitive delivery systems in New Hampshire (NH), which included value‐based payment, care management, and non‐financial supports, impacted healthcare value and payer and provider group experiences.

Study Setting and Design

We conducted a mixed‐methods study. We used a quasi‐experimental longitudinal difference‐in‐differences design to examine the impact of the JV (which started in January 2016 and ended in December 2020) on healthcare utilization, quality, and spending, using members in Maine (ME) as a control group. We also analyzed patient uptake of the JV's care management program using routinely collected administrative data and assessed payer and provider group leaders' perspectives about the JV via semi‐structured interviews.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

We used administrative and claims data from 2013 to 2019 in a commercially insured population under 65 years in NH and ME. We also used administrative data on care management eligibility and uptake and conducted semi‐structured interviews with payer and provider group leaders affiliated with the JV.

Principal Findings

The JV was associated with no sustained change in medical utilization, quality, and spending throughout the study period. In the first year of the JV, there was a $142 (95% confidence interval: $41, $243) increase in pharmaceutical spending per member and a 13% (4.4%, 25%) relative increase in days covered for diabetes medications. Only 15% of eligible members engaged in care management, which was a key component of the JV's multi‐pronged approach. In a disconnect from the empirical findings, payer and provider group leaders believed that the JV reduced healthcare costs and improved quality.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence for future payer‐provider JVs and demonstrate the importance of having a valid control group when evaluating JVs and value‐based payment arrangements.
Pharmacological inhibition of KSper impairs flagellar pH homeostasis of human spermatozoa
Authors: Ji Nanxi , Wang Xiaorong , Zeng Xuhui , Kang Hang
Published: November 2024

Background

Sperm‐specific potassium channel (KSper) comprised of pore‐forming subunit SLO3 and auxiliary subunit LRRC52 is of importance for sperm fertility. The deficiency of KSper in both mice and humans resulted in severe impairments of sperm functions including sperm hyperactivity and acrosome reaction. Previous reports suggested that mouse KSper modulated sperm function possibly by affecting sperm intracellular pH (pHi). However, the precise signaling mechanism of human KSper (hKSper) on the regulation of sperm functions was largely unclear.

Objective

To explore the regulatory role of hKSper on sperm flagellar pHi.

Materials and methods

More than 50 sperm donors were recruited during a period of 1 year. As reported in our previous work, we quantitatively measured flagellar pHi by employing a single‐cell pH fluorescent recording on human spermatozoa loaded with pH indicator pHrodo Red. Three different hKSper antagonists including clofilium, quinidine, and a polyclonal antibody of LRRC52 (LID1) were utilized to evaluate the effect of hKSper inhibition on sperm flagellar pHi.

Results

Given the predominant role of hKSper on the regulation of membrane potential (Em), we first detected a considerable depolarization (about 25–30 mV) of Em evoked by clofilium and quinidine. Subsequently, it was shown that flagellar pHi values of human spermatozoa were significantly decreased by the treatment of clofilium (50 µM, from 7.13 ± 0.11 to 6.43 ± 0.12), quinidine (500 µM, from 7.00 ± 0.11 to 6.64 ± 0.08) and LID1 (20 µg/mL, from 6.98 ± 0.16 to 6.67 ± 0.22). Moreover, we found that when human spermatozoa were pre‐incubated with a high K+ solution (135 mM), both the depolarization of Em and the acidification of flagellar pHi evoked by clofilium and quinidine were abolished. In addition, we found that extracellular substitution of N‐methyl‐D‐glucamine for Na+ abolished pHi acidification induced by hKSper inhibition.

Discussion and conclusion

Our results demonstrate that hKSper inhibition evokes flagellar pHi acidification of human spermatozoa, suggesting that flagellar pHi maintenance is an important signaling mechanism of hKSper on the regulation of sperm functions.
Perinatal death in the Nordic countries in relation to gestational age: The impact of registration practice
Authors: Jeppegaard Maria , Frølich Maria Kongerslev , Thomsen Liv Cecilie Vestrheim , Heino Anna , Liu Eileen , Gunnarsdottir Johanna , Akerkar Rupali Rajendra , Eskildsen Lene Friis , Källén Karin , Ohlin Mikael , Klungsøyr Kari , Gissler Mika , Krebs Lone
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Although perinatal death rates in the Nordic countries are among the lowest in the world, the risk of perinatal death is unevenly distributed across the Nordic countries, despite similarity in health care systems and pregnancy care. Birth registration practices across countries may explain some of the differences. We investigated differences in national registration of perinatal mortality within the Nordic countries and its impact on perinatal mortality according to gestational age.

Material and Methods

Each country provided information by answering a questionnaire about registration of perinatal deaths. Furthermore, we collected aggregated count data based on Medical Birth Registries (MBR) from all Nordic countries in 2000 to 2021. Perinatal mortality was defined as stillbirth or neonatal death occurring within first 7 days of life. Data were grouped into six groups by gestational age (GA): extremely preterm (>28 + 0 weeks, subdivided into 22 + 0–23 + 6 and 24 + 0–27 + 6), very preterm (GA 28 + 0–31 + 6), moderate preterm (GA 32 + 0–33 + 6), late preterm (GA 34 + 0–36 + 6), term (GA 37 + 0–40 + 6) and late term or post‐term birth (GA ≥ 41 + 0). Perinatal mortality rate and risk ratio with 95% confidence intervals were calculated per country for each gestational age group. For Denmark, separate analyses included and excluded induced abortions.

Results

The study included 6 343 805 live births, 22 727 stillbirths and 8932 liveborn infants who died within the first week of life after GA 22 + 0. Further 25 057 births were included with GA < 22 + 0, unknown GA and as a result of induced abortion. Overall, perinatal mortality rates decreased during year 2000–2021 in all Nordic countries. After exclusion of induced abortions, the perinatal mortality rate was similar in the five Nordic countries. The perinatal mortality rate for extremely preterm born infants was highest in Denmark, whereas the highest rate among infants born late term/post‐term was in Sweden.

Conclusions

The perinatal mortality rate in the Nordic countries is still decreasing, especially in the group of extremely preterm born infants. This study supports the need for further standardization of birth registration practices to ensure the validity of international comparisons.
AI as your ally: The effects of AI‐assisted venting on negative affect and perceived social support
Authors: Hu Meilan , Chua Xavier Cheng Wee , Diong Shu Fen , Kasturiratna K. T. A. Sandeeshwara , Majeed Nadyanna M. , Hartanto Andree
Published: November 2024

In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have made significant strides in generating human‐like conversations. With AI's expanding capabilities in mimicking human interactions, its affordability and accessibility underscore the potential of AI chatbots to facilitate negative emotional disclosure or venting. The study's primary objective is to highlight the potential benefits of AI‐assisted venting by comparing its effectiveness to venting through a traditional journaling platform in reducing negative affect and increasing perceived social support. We conducted a pre‐registered within‐subject experiment involving 150 participants who completed both traditional venting and AI‐assisted venting conditions with counterbalancing and a wash‐out period of 1‐week between the conditions. Results from the frequentist and Bayesian dependent samples t‐test revealed that AI‐assisted venting effectively reduced high and medium arousal negative affect such as anger, frustration and fear. However, participants in the AI‐assisted venting condition did not experience a significant increase in perceived social support and perceived loneliness, suggesting that participants did not perceive the effective assistance from AI as social support. This study demonstrates the promising role of AI in improving individuals' emotional well‐being, serving as a catalyst for a broader discussion on the evolving role of AI and its potential psychological implications.
Meta‐Analysis: Global Prevalence of Coeliac Disease in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Karimzadhagh Sahand , Abbaspour Elahe , Shahriarinamin Maryam , Shamsi Pourya , Poursadrolah Selvana , Khorasani Mehrdad , Daghighi Mahzad , Malek Arash , Talesh Jouan Taheri , Makharia Govind K. , Rostami‐Nejad Mohammad
Published: November 2024

Background

Coeliac disease (CD) is common in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D), but prevalence varies globally due to differing screening protocols. There have been substantial changes in screening guidelines over the past two decades.

Aim

To evaluate CD prevalence in patients with T1D, focusing on screening studies using antitissue transglutaminase (anti‐tTG) antibody.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus for studies published up to 11 December 2023 using keywords related to CD and diabetes. We used random‐effects models for overall prevalence and all subgroups, with heterogeneity assessed using Cochran's Q test and the I2 statistic performed in STATA 18.

Results

We included 106 articles involving 65,102 T1D patients across 40 countries. The pooled CD seroprevalence and confirmed CD prevalence were 9% (95% confidence interval, CI, 8%–10%) and 6% (95% CI 5%–7%), respectively. The prevalence was higher in females and children. Denmark, Saudi Arabia and Libya exhibited the highest prevalence (11%), followed by India and Egypt (10%). Belgium, France, Germany, South Africa and the United States had the lowest prevalence (2%). High‐income countries showed significantly a lower CD prevalence than middle‐income countries (p = 0.03). Meta‐regression based on the Human Development Index (HDI) indicated that countries with higher HDI have lower seroprevalence and confirmed CD prevalence.

Conclusion

Approximately 1 in 16 patients globally and 1 in 12 patients in Asia and the Middle East with T1D has CD. We suggest that all patients with T1D should be screened for CD.
Link Between Social Relationships and Vulnerability Among Community‐Dwelling Older Adults Living Alone in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Ke‐Mei , Wang Shu‐Twu , Chao Shan‐Ru , Kasirisir Kui
Published: November 2024

The study investigated the effect of social relationships on vulnerability among community‐dwelling older adults living alone in Taiwan. Data were extracted from the de‐identified service records of 2116 older adults living alone. Logistic regression models were used to identify the connection between social relationships and vulnerability. The results demonstrated that close social relationships help reduce vulnerability for older adults living alone. Moreover, the data indicated a statistically significant relationship between frailty and vulnerability and a statistically significant relationship between public assistance and vulnerability. An increase in the degree of frailty increases the risk of exposure to threats for older adults living alone. However, public assistance benefits older adults living alone. Existing policy and social work interventions aim to strengthen social safety nets for older adults living alone and establish social networks for older adults living alone through an institutional approach to prevent exposure to threats. Moreover, policymakers should focus not only on risk factors (e.g., frailty) but also on protective factors (e.g., social relationships and public assistance).
Population pharmacokinetic modelling of cetirizine concentrations in human breast milk—A contribution from the ConcePTION project
Authors: Melander Erik , Nielsen Elisabet I. , Lindqvist Annika , Hovd Markus , Gandia Peggy , Panchaud Alice , Guidi Monia , Annaert Pieter , Baranczewski Pawel , Spigset Olav , Nordeng Hedvig
Published: November 2024

Cetirizine is an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergic rhinitis and other allergic conditions. Cetirizine is often prescribed to breastfeeding mothers although there is limited information on infant exposure via breast milk. The aim of this study was to develop a popPK model based on data from a lactation study to predict cetirizine breast milk concentrations and estimate the relative infant dose (RID) in a breastfed infant. A popPK model was developed in NONMEM on data from a human lactation study including 35 women using cetirizine or levocetirizine while breastfeeding. Serial samples of breast milk were collected (n = 205) and the cetirizine concentrations quantified using a validated LC–MS/MS method. A one‐compartment model of cetirizine in breast milk was developed and employed to calculate the relative infant dose (RID). Covariates related to the maternal characteristics and breastfeeding patterns were evaluated in the model; only milk sampling pumping duration was found to be a significant covariate, with an increasing pumping duration leading to an increased apparent milk volume of distribution (Vm). The mean RID was 1.99% with the highest RID being 3.36% at Cmax. PopPK modelling could be used to estimate infant exposure to cetirizine via breast milk. The low predicted exposure in infants supports that cetirizine is compatible with breastfeeding.
Biomedical moral enhancement for psychopaths
Authors: Yoon Junsik
Published: November 2024

This study examines the ethical permissibility of biomedical moral enhancement (BME) for psychopaths, considering both coercive and voluntary approaches. To do so, I will first briefly explain what psychopaths are and some normative implications of these facts. I will then ethically examine three scenarios of BME for psychopaths: (1) coercive BME for non‐criminal psychopaths, (2) coercive BME for psychopathic offenders, and (3) voluntary BME for psychopathic offenders. I will argue that coercive BME for non‐criminal psychopaths is ethically problematic due to issues of cost, invasion of privacy, and stigmatic effects of compulsory diagnosis. Similarly, I will argue that coercive BME for criminals is impermissible due to violations of the rights to bodily and mental integrity. However, I will show that voluntary BME for offenders may be ethically permissible under certain conditions, challenging the critique that the consent of vulnerable prisoners cannot be considered fully voluntary. I argue that when an offender is provided with sufficient medical and legal information, incentives such as the possibility of parole review based on BME results do not preclude the voluntariness of consent. Ultimately, I aim to advance the debate on BME for psychopaths by delineating and defending conditions for the ethical permissibility of voluntary BME.
Memantine treatment in sickle cell disease: A 1‐year study of its effects on cognitive functions and neural processing
Authors: Raz Sivan , Koren Ariel , Bogdanova Anna Yu. , Gassmann Max , Levin Carina
Published: November 2024

This study evaluates the neurocognitive and electrophysiological effects of 1‐year memantine treatment in 14 adolescents and young adults (mean age 24 years) with sickle cell disease (SCD, incluing sickle cell anaemia and sickle cell β‐thalassemia), hypothesizing improvements in cognitive functions and neural processing. Participants underwent assessments using subtests from the Wechsler Intelligence Scale and a computerized task‐switching paradigm with concurrent event‐related potential (ERP) recordings, both before and after the treatment period. Assessments focused on processing speed, working memory, attention and executive function. ERP measurements targeted brain response changes during task switching. Memantine treatment enhanced cognitive test performance, especially in processing speed as shown by the Digit–Symbol Coding and Symbol‐Search tests. Results indicated improved visuospatial and graphomotor speed, working memory and attention. The task‐switching test revealed reduced error rates, suggesting decreased cognitive load and enhanced executive control. Electrophysiological changes in P1 and P3 amplitudes at frontal and parietal locations post‐treatment pointed to more efficient neural processing in tasks requiring cognitive flexibility. These preliminary findings from a Phase II clinical study serve as a ‘proof of concept’, exploring the feasibility and potential effectiveness of memantine treatment in SCD—a previously uninvestigated context. They support the rationale for more extensive investigations to confirm these results and assess memantine's broader effectiveness.
Feasibility of plasma proteomics in patients with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Kapur Rick
Published: November 2024

ITP is an acquired autoimmune bleeding disorder characterized by an isolated thrombocytopenia. The pathophysiology is highly multifactorial and involves antibody‐ and/or cytotoxic T cell‐mediated killing of platelets and disruption of megakaryocyte function hampering platelet production. ITP remains a diagnosis of exclusion, and due to the high degree of variability between patients, it remains challenging to predict disease courses and responses to therapeutic agents. Hence, diagnostic and therapeutic laboratory biomarkers are highly warranted. To address this issue, in their paper, Jiang and colleagues have performed plasma proteomics in ITP patients (n = 40), in comparison to patients with thrombocytopenia due to other causes than ITP (non‐ITP thrombocytopenia, n = 19) and healthy controls (n = 18). The data underscore that patients with ITP have a distinct plasma proteomic signature compared to non‐ITP thrombocytopenia patients and healthy individuals. The findings should be further validated and investigated but suggest that the application of plasma proteomics is feasible and promising with respect to the search for potential biomarkers in patients with ITP.

Commentary on: Jiang et al. Targeted proteomics profiling reveals valuable biomarkers in the diagnosis of primary immune thrombocytopenia. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:133‐143.
Examination of dental utilization of newly resettled adult refugees in Washington state enrolled in dental medicaid program
Authors: Seminario Ana Lucia , Tabatabaiepur Sogole , Wang Yan , Okunseri Christopher , Weatherspoon Darien J. , Roberts Frank
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess dental utilization of resettled adult refugees in Washington (WA) state and the demographic factors associated with dental utilization.

Methods

Data were collected between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2015 for newly arrived adult refugees (>21 years) enrolled in Washington State dental Medicaid program. Three state agencies provided enrollment and claims data that included demographic information as well as number and types of dental claims, and time to first dental claim for the newly resettled adult refugee population.

Results

A total of 1294 adult refugees resettled in WA State in 2015. Approximately, 67% were aged 21–39 years and 32.4% White race and 93.9% without any disability. Over half (57%) of adult refugees had at least one dental claim within 12 months, and the median time to first dental utilization was 4.1 months [IQR:2.4–6.8]. Black refugees had a 74% greater chance of a first dental claim within 12 months of resettlement compared to White refugees (p < .001), and people from countries with high volume of refugees also had a 31% greater chance than those from countries with low volume of refugees (p = .005).

Conclusions

Over half of all the adult refugees resettled in WA utilized dental services within 12 months of arrival. Understanding the mosaic of demographic backgrounds of newly resettled refugees in any given state will improve early utilization of dental care needs and therefore improve their oral health.
Communities of Practice Support Implementation of Power to Kids in Residential Care: The EMBED Model
Authors: McKibbin Gemma , Lynch Olivia , Bornemisza Anna , Green Rachel , Humphreys Cathy
Published: November 2024

Children and young people in residential care continue to experience significant harmful sexual behaviour, dating violence and child sexual exploitation. Power to Kids is a programme developed in Australia to prevent and respond to these forms of abuse for this cohort. The aim of the study was to explore how a Communities of Practice initiative could further support the implementation of the Power to Kids programme in the residential care practice of a community service organisation. Qualitative data were collected through feedback loops (n = 12) with residential carers and senior staff and focus groups (n = 4). Quantitative data were collected through two surveys (n = 89) and (n = 46). The data revealed inductively the EMBED model: Executive commitment to Communities of Practice, Members of Communities of Practice engage with content, Becoming part of everyday practice, Enhanced knowledge of sexual health and safety and Decline in going missing and better relationships. Findings suggest that a Community of Practice approach to implementing Power to Kids is promising in embedding the sexual health and safety programme.
Border‐Associated Macrophages: From Embryogenesis to Immune Regulation
Authors: Zhan Tiantong , Tian Sixuan , Chen Sheng
Published: November 2024

Border‐associated macrophages (BAMs) play a pivotal role in maintaining brain homeostasis and responding to pathological conditions. Understanding their origins, characteristics, and roles in both healthy and diseased brains is crucial for advancing our knowledge of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. This review addresses the ontogeny, replenishment, microenvironmental regulation, and transcriptomic heterogeneity of BAMs, highlighting recent advancements in lineage tracing and fate‐mapping studies. Furthermore, we examine the roles of BAMs in maintaining brain homeostasis, immune surveillance, and responses to injury and neurodegenerative diseases. Further research is crucial to clarify the dynamic interplay between BAMs and the brain's microenvironment in health and disease. This effort will not only resolve existing controversies but also reveal new therapeutic targets for neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders, pushing the boundaries of neuroscience.
Sensor‐derived glycaemic metrics in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes randomised to faster acting insulin aspart or insulin aspart—A secondary analysis of the CopenFast trial
Authors: Søholm Julie C. , Nørgaard Sidse K. , Nørgaard Kirsten , Clausen Tine D. , Damm Peter , Mathiesen Elisabeth R. , Ringholm Lene
Published: November 2024

Aims

We compared sensor‐derived glycaemic metrics in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) randomised to faster acting insulin aspart (faster aspart) or insulin aspart (IAsp).

Methods

A pre‐planned secondary analysis of the CopenFast trial included women with T1D using intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) during pregnancy. Glycaemic metrics, including time in range (TIRp, 3.5–7.8 mmol/L) and time below range in pregnancy (TBRp, <3.5 mmol/L), were evaluated in the intervals: from randomisation (median 9.5 weeks, interquartile range 9.0–11.0) to 21 weeks, from 22 to 33 weeks and from 34 to 37 weeks.

Results

In total, 113 (91%) of 124 women using isCGM in the original trial were included. At randomisation, glycaemic metrics were comparable in both groups. Women randomised to faster aspart achieved higher TIRp from 22 to 33 weeks (estimated treatment difference 5.1% [95% confidence interval 0.3; 9.7], p = 0.04) and mean TIRp >70% from randomisation to 21 weeks onwards, while this was achieved after 34 weeks in women randomised to IAsp. TBRp remained stable around 4% throughout pregnancy in both groups. One (2%) versus 5 (9%) experienced ≥1 severe hypoglycaemic event (odds ratio 0.93 [−0.2; −0.01], p = 0.04). Infant birthweight standard deviation score was lower in the faster aspart group (estimated treatment difference −0.5 [−0.9; −0.03], p = 0.04); however, this attenuated when adjusting for parity (p = 0.10).

Conclusions

Women using faster aspart achieved more TIRp and experienced less severe hypoglycaemia compared to women using IAsp. Infant birthweight was lower and thereby more appropriate in the faster aspart group; however, this attenuated when adjusting for parity.
The impact of metabolic heterogeneity of obesity and transitions on cardiovascular disease incidence in Chinese middle‐aged and elderly population: A nationwide prospective cohort study
Authors: He Qiang , Zheng Rujie , Song Wenjuan , Sun Xiaotong , Lu Chengzhi
Published: November 2024

Background

Previous studies indicated that metabolic heterogeneity of obesity would affect the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, the alterations in CVD risk associated with transitions between various metabolic health statuses influenced by obesity status remain unclear.

Methods

We utilized data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), a longitudinal cohort study involving Chinese residents aged 45 years and older. Baseline data were collected in 2011–2012, with follow‐up surveys conducted up to 2020. Participants in the study were categorized into four body mass index–metabolic phenotypes: metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW), metabolically healthy overweight/obesity (MHOO), metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW) and metabolically unhealthy overweight/obesity (MUOO). Transitions in these phenotypes over 4 years were analysed. Cox regression models were used to assess the associations of these phenotypes and their transitions with CVD incidence.

Results

Among 7721 participants, 1353 (17.5%) developed CVD during the follow‐up period. Both overweight/obese and metabolically unhealthy statuses were associated with increased CVD risk. The highest risk was observed in the MUOO group (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.74, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50–2.09, p < 0.0001), followed by the MUNW (HR 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13–1.66, p < 0.001) and MHOO (HR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.08–1.56, p = 0.002) groups compared to the MHNW group. The deteriorations of obesity and metabolic health status elevated the incidence of CVD, whereas improvements in these statuses reduced the risk of CVD. Additionally, alterations in metabolic health status conferred greater benefits in overweight/obese individuals compared to those with normal weight.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of maintaining and promoting metabolic health, particularly in overweight/obese individuals, to reduce CVD risk. Metabolic health status plays a more crucial role than obesity status in predicting CVD incidence.
To the top or into the dark? Relationships between elevational and canopy cover distribution shifts in mountain forests
Authors: Samira Geres Lisa , Blüthgen Nico , Müller Jörg , Seifert Linda , Seibold Sebastian , Bässler Claus
Published: November 2024

Numerous studies have reported that observed species shifts in mountain areas lag behind expectations under current warming trends, however, the mechanisms remain poorly understood. One important mechanism might be microclimatic heterogeneity causing migration of species to cooler conditions under closed forest canopies, but evidence is scarce. We here compared the distributions of 710 species (11 taxonomic groups including fungi, plants, and animals) along an elevation gradient (287–1419 m a.s.l.) in a temperate low mountain range between 2006–2008 and 2016–2017 to address this open question. We characterized each species' distribution (peak and breadth) based on their abundance along two environmental gradients: elevation and canopy cover. We then analysed changes in species' distribution peaks, asking whether shifts in canopy distribution and initial distribution characteristics explain variation in elevational distribution shifts. Across all taxa, the mean shift in elevational distribution peak was + 35.3 m (i.e. upslope). Species' baseline distribution peaks were strong predictors of elevational distribution shifts with stronger upslope shifts in low‐elevation and open‐forest species. Even though we observed considerable variation in the responses among species, canopy distribution shifts had a significant negative effect on elevational distribution shifts overall and in six taxonomic groups. We suggest that this is related to cooler microclimatic conditions under closed compared to open forest canopies. Shifts to closed‐canopy forests may thus partly compensate for elevational distribution shifts, highlighting the conservation value of heterogeneous landscapes featuring microclimatic refugia. Yet, it is likely that other mechanisms, such as habitat limitation, are also at play. Future studies need to quantify the potential of microclimatic refugia under accelerating forest dynamics, considering the interplay of canopy cover and other factors driving microclimate, and to illuminate the complex climate change response mechanisms among species and taxonomic groups.
Effect of brackish water inundation on temperate coastal acid sulfate soils under different vegetation types
Authors: Xu Chang , Ram Rahul , Wong Vanessa N. L.
Published: November 2024

Coastal wetland soils are frequently underlain by sulfidic materials. Sea level fluctuations can lead to oxidation of sulfidic materials in acid sulfate soils (ASS) and increased acidity which mobilises trace metals when water levels are low, and inundation of coastal wetland soils and reformation of sulfidic materials when water levels are high. We measured the effect of surface water level fluctuations in soils from coastal wetland sites under four different vegetation types: Apium gravedens (AG), Leptospermum lanigerum (LL), Phragmites australis (PA) and Paspalum distichum (PD) on an estuarine floodplain in southern Australia. We assessed effects of fluctuating water levels on reduced inorganic sulfur (RIS) in terms of acid volatile sulfide (AVS), chromium reducible sulfur (CRS) and trace metals (Fe, Al, Mn, Zn, Ni). Intact soil cores were incubated under dry, flooded and wet–dry cycle treatments of 14 days for a total of 56 days. The flooded treatment increased RIS concentrations in most depths in the AG, PA and PD sites. Lower CRS concentrations occurred in all sites in the dry treatment due to oxidation of sulfidic materials when the surface layer was exposed to lower water levels. CRS was positively correlated with SOC in all treatments. The highest net acidity occurred in the dry treatment and lowest occurred in the flooded treatment in most sites. Inundation with seawater caused SO42− reduction and decreased soluble Fe in the PA and PD sites. General decreases in Al, Zn and Ni concentrations in flooded treatments may have been due to adsorption onto colloids or co‐precipitation with slight increases in pH. SO42− concentrations decreased in the LL, PA and PD sites in the flooded treatment due to reformation of pyrite. In general, accumulation of RIS in soils under different vegetation types following brackish water inundation varied according to vegetation type, which may be linked to differences in organic material input and particle size distribution. Geochemical characteristics reflected whether oxidation or reduction processes dominated at each site in the wet–dry cycle treatments, with oxidation dominating in the LL and PA sites and reduction dominating in the AG and PD sites. This is likely due to more readily decomposable organic matter forming sulfidic materials during short periods of inundation.
Futile attempts to remake the world: Wars in the North Caucasus and refugee masculinities in Poland
Authors: Sipos Michal
Published: November 2024

This study describes the lived experience of an Ingush refugee man to examine how wars in the North Caucasus became a part of his daily life. Concentrating on individual life, the study discusses a gendered “recovery” pattern among Chechen and Ingush asylum‐seeking men who were encamped in Poland between 2007 and 2009. The study shows how attempts to remake the world reproduced trauma while fostering the perception that the ongoing life aligns with the prevailing gender ideology in the sending societies. The recovery process was hindered owing to protracted precariousness and uncertainty. When displaced men fail to remake the world at collective centers for refugees, they may become detached from life in a way that supports the formation of novel forms of sociality. The study's findings may reverberate to the present political and socioeconomic landscape, where multiple crises impact the subjectivity and autonomy of refugees.
New ways to repurpose salmeterol in an animal model of fibromyalgia
Authors: Shafiek Mena Z. , Zaki Hala F. , Mohamed Ahmed F.
Published: November 2024

Background

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome of pervasive chronic pain accompanied by low mood, sleep disorders, and cognitive decline. The dysfunction of central pain processing systems along with neurotransmitter disturbances are possible contributing mechanisms. Genetic polymorphism of the 𝛽2 adrenergic receptors is reported in FM patients. It is reported that chronic β2 agonists administration is effective for neuropathic pain alleviation. No current information, however, exists on their potential to alleviate nociplastic pain, such as FM. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to examine salmeterol's potential antiallodynic effects in experimentally produced FM and explore some of the possible contributing mechanisms.

Methods

Thirty rats are allocated into three groups (n = 10): a normal group, a reserpine group that received reserpine (1 mg/kg; s.c.) for 3 days, and a reserpine + salmeterol group that received salmeterol (1 mg/kg; i.p.) for 21 consecutive days following last reserpine injection.

Results

Reserpine administration resulted in behavioral and biochemical changes consistent with FM, including thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia, depressive behavior, and motor incoordination. This is coupled with disturbed spinal monoamine levels, depressed cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling, disturbed mitochondrial function/dynamics, and compromised blood‐nerve barrier integrity. Treatment with salmeterol conceivably reversed these effects.

Conclusion

β2 receptor agonists such as salmeterol could be regarded as a promising strategy for the management of FM.
Bounded support: Success and limitations of liquidity support during times of crisis
Authors: Lynch John , Ogden Richard
Published: November 2024

Our paper sheds light on the complexity of liquidity injection programs by showing unintended consequences that arise when firm heterogeneity is overlooked. Utilizing firm‐level data from the Paycheck Protection Program, we find government lending effectively reduced closures, particularly if received during the first two weeks. However, we find significant heterogeneity in the effectiveness of funds, resulting from broad‐brush eligibility guidelines and differences in how firms process information. The implementation relied on the banking system, which exacerbated the distributional effects by favoring firms with stronger customer capital. Our findings highlight the importance of thoughtful liquidity distribution design to maximize its benefits.
Viral rebound on antiretroviral therapy in France according to region of origin, sex, and HIV acquisition group. Results from the French Hospital Database on HIV (ANRS CO4‐FHDH)
Authors: Abgrall S. , Selinger‐Leneman H. , Lanoy E. , Becker A. , Matheron S. , de Truchis P. , Pavie J. , Canestri A. , Khuong M. A. , Rey D. , Caby F. , Tattevin P. , Palich R. , Grabar S. ,   ANRS CO4‐FHDH
Published: November 2024

Background

Assessing the potential increased risk of viral rebound (VR) in migrants requires adequate control for sex and acquisition risk groups.

Methods

People living with HIV1, enrolled in the ANRS CO4‐French Hospital Database on HIV, who achieved virological suppression with antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiated between 2006 and 2016 were included. We first compared the risk of VR, with loss to follow‐up and death considered as competing events, across origin among the HIV acquisition groups, then across acquisition groups among the different origins, and finally across modality of a variable combining sex, acquisition group, and origin. Models were adjusted for clinical and biological confounding factors.

Results

We included 21 571 French natives (FRA), 10 148 migrants from sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), 1137 migrants from the non‐French West Indies (NFWI), and 4205 other migrants (OTHER). The 5‐year probability of VR was 19% (95% confidence interval [CI] 19–20) overall, 15% in FRA, 21% in OTHER, 26% in SSA, and 34% in NFWI (p < 0.0001). It was 14% in men who have sex with men (MSM), 23% in heterosexual men, and 23% in women (p < 0.0001). After adjustment, all acquisition groups had a higher risk of VR than MSM from FRA, with men and women from NFWI having the highest risk (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.46; 95% CI 2.12–2.86 and aHR 2.59; 95% CI 2.20–3.04, respectively). Within each acquisition group, all groups of origin had a higher risk of VR than FRA. Within each region of origin, except the NFWI, heterosexual men had a higher risk of VR than MSM.

Conclusions

After accounting for sex and acquisition group, migration, especially from NFWI, remains prognostic of VR.
Development of a Predictive Model for Chewing Difficulty Using EuroQol‐5 Dimension Among Korean Older Adults
Authors: Kim Han‐Nah , Kim Nam‐Hee
Published: November 2024

Objectives

We aimed to develop a predictive model for chewing difficulty using the EuroQol‐5 dimension measure (EQ‐5D).

Methods

We included 6643 individuals aged ≥ 65 years (mean age: 72.6 ± 4.96 years; women: 3761 [56.6%]) who had completed the sixth (2013–2015) and seventh (2016–2018) Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). The participants were further divided into young‐old (65–74 years) and old‐old (≥ 75 years) adults. Data from the sixth KNHANES were used to establish an internal validation model (overall, young‐old and old‐old adult populations were 3472, 2271 and 1201, respectively). Data from the seventh KNHANES were used to establish an external validation model (overall, young‐old and old‐old adult populations were 3171, 1879 and 1292 participants, respectively). We evaluated chewing difficulty using the EQ‐5D (Model 1) and comparative models, subjective oral health status indicators (SOHSI) and objective oral health status indicators (OOHSI).

Results

Compared with SOHSI and OOHSI, EQ‐5D showed similar predictive utility for chewing difficulty in both the internal and external validation models.

Conclusions

Effect sizes, quantified using Cohen's d, indicated that EQ‐5D parameters had a moderate impact on the prediction accuracy for chewing difficulties.
Effectiveness of Original Monovalent and Bivalent COVID‐19 Vaccines Against COVID‐19‐Associated Hospitalization and Severe In‐Hospital Outcomes Among Adults in the United States, September 2022–August 2023
Authors: DeCuir Jennifer , Surie Diya , Zhu Yuwei , Lauring Adam S. , Gaglani Manjusha , McNeal Tresa , Ghamande Shekhar , Peltan Ithan D. , Brown Samuel M. , Ginde Adit A. , Steinwand Aimee , Mohr Nicholas M. , Gibbs Kevin W. , Hager David N. , Ali Harith , Frosch Anne , Gong Michelle N. , Mohamed Amira , Johnson Nicholas J. , Srinivasan Vasisht , Steingrub Jay S. , Khan Akram , Busse Laurence W. , Duggal Abhijit , Wilson Jennifer G. , Qadir Nida , Chang Steven Y. , Mallow Christopher , Kwon Jennie H. , Exline Matthew C. , Shapiro Nathan I. , Columbus Cristie , Vaughn Ivana A. , Ramesh Mayur , Safdar Basmah , Mosier Jarrod M. , Casey Jonathan D. , Talbot H. Keipp , Rice Todd W. , Halasa Natasha , Chappell James D. , Grijalva Carlos G. , Baughman Adrienne , Womack Kelsey N. , Rhoads Jillian P. , Swan Sydney A. , Johnson Cassandra , Lewis Nathaniel , Ellington Sascha , Dawood Fatimah S. , McMorrow Meredith , Self Wesley H. ,   for the Investigating Respiratory Viruses in the Acutely Ill (IVY) Network
Published: November 2024

Background

Assessments of COVID‐19 vaccine effectiveness are needed to monitor the protection provided by updated vaccines against severe COVID‐19. We evaluated the effectiveness of original monovalent and bivalent (ancestral strain and Omicron BA.4/5) COVID‐19 vaccination against COVID‐19‐associated hospitalization and severe in‐hospital outcomes.

Methods

During September 8, 2022 to August 31, 2023, adults aged ≥ 18 years hospitalized with COVID‐19‐like illness were enrolled at 26 hospitals in 20 US states. Using a test‐negative case–control design, we estimated vaccine effectiveness (VE) with multivariable logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, admission date, and geographic region.

Results

Among 7028 patients, 2924 (41.6%) were COVID‐19 case patients, and 4104 (58.4%) were control patients. Compared to unvaccinated patients, absolute VE against COVID‐19‐associated hospitalization was 6% (−7%–17%) for original monovalent doses only (median time since last dose [IQR] = 421 days [304–571]), 52% (39%–61%) for a bivalent dose received 7–89 days earlier, and 13% (−10%–31%) for a bivalent dose received 90–179 days earlier. Absolute VE against COVID‐19‐associated invasive mechanical ventilation or death was 51% (34%–63%) for original monovalent doses only, 61% (35%–77%) for a bivalent dose received 7–89 days earlier, and 50% (11%–71%) for a bivalent dose received 90–179 days earlier.

Conclusion

Bivalent vaccination provided protection against COVID‐19‐associated hospitalization and severe in‐hospital outcomes within 3 months of receipt, followed by a decline in protection to a level similar to that remaining from previous original monovalent vaccination by 3–6 months. These results underscore the benefit of remaining up to date with recommended COVID‐19 vaccines.
A Ritornello Pedagogy: Troubling School Art Orthodoxies
Authors: Sowerby Georgia , Millett Tabitha
Published: November 2024

In the studio, there are routines and rituals to be observed. One of those is making gesso. The quantities change each time and the ingredients vary, but the mechanical process remains the same: soak rabbit skin glue for 3 hours, double burner melt the glue, sieve in champagne chalk whiting, stir slowly, and tap the sides to remove air bubbles. Brush on first layer. Dry. Sand. Repeat × 10. Out of repetition each new territory is unique with its own lumps, drips and curves on a straight edge board. Making gesso is a kind of ritornello. Drawing on Deleuze and Guattari, a ritornello is a repetition leading to a transformation; it is a methodical kind of time that is rhythmic, local and spatiotemporal. It contravenes the idea of a universal, overarching time to consider heterogeneous, plural experiences of time in the art classroom. Ritornellos exist in both the studio and the art classroom, but in the art classroom, they often sediment into endless repetitions without rupture: tonal scales, colour wheels, drawing grids and pastiche. We apply the concept of ritornello to pedagogy in Secondary Art and Design education to think about school art orthodoxies and how they can be reterritorialised.
Methods of Calculating Prediction Error Variance and Prediction Accuracy for Restricted Best Linear Unbiased Prediction of Breeding Values
Authors: Satoh Masahiro
Published: November 2024

Prediction error variance (PEV) and prediction accuracy (PA) of breeding values (BVs) are essential for formulating breeding plans and predicting response to selection. However, restricted best linear unbiased prediction method (RBLUP method) carries many unknowns: in particular, the formulas for calculating PEV and PA are not clear. New findings were obtained using the RBLUP method. The uniqueness of RBLUP of BVs was proven. The formulas of PEV and PA for the RBLUP of BVs were derived from restricted mixed model equations. A method was also devised for easily calculating the PEV and PA for the RBLUP of BVs. Finally, the relationship between the RBLUP and ordinary BLUP of BVs was derived. It has become easier to calculate the PEV and PA for the RBLUP of BVs. This method is particularly effective for calculating the PEV and PA when applying the RBLUP method to achieve relative desired changes in all traits. This has also made it possible to predict the response to selection using the RBLUP method.