bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rab12 regulates LRRK2 activity by promoting its localization to lysosomes
Authors: Bondar Vitaliy V. , Wang Xiang , Davis Oliver B. , Maloney Michael T. , Agam Maayan , Chin Marcus Y. , Ho Audrey Cheuk-Nga , Joy David , Lewcock Joseph W. , Di Paolo Gilbert , Thorne Robert G. , Sweeney Zachary K. , Henry Anastasia G.
Published: February 2023

Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) variants associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Crohn’s disease lead to increased phosphorylation of its Rab substrates. While it has been recently shown that perturbations in cellular homeostasis including lysosomal damage and stress can increase LRRK2 activity and localization to lysosomes, the molecular mechanisms by which LRRK2 activity is regulated have remained poorly defined. We performed a targeted siRNA screen to identify regulators of LRRK2 activity and identified Rab12 as a novel modulator of LRRK2-dependent phosphorylation of one of its substrates, Rab10. Using a combination of imaging and immunopurification methods to isolate lysosomes, we demonstrated that Rab12 is actively recruited to damaged lysosomes and leads to a local and LRRK2-dependent increase in Rab10 phosphorylation. PD-linked variants, including LRRK2 R1441G and VPS35 D620N, lead to increased recruitment of LRRK2 to the lysosome and a local elevation in lysosomal levels of pT73 Rab10. Together, these data suggest a conserved mechanism by which Rab12, in response to damage or expression of PD-associated variants, promotes the recruitment of LRRK2 and phosphorylation of its Rab substrate(s) at the lysosome.
Introns are derived from transposons
Authors: Rogers Scott O. , Bendich Arnold J.
Published: February 2023

Introns and transposons exhibit many similar features, but the connections between them have yet to be firmly established. Group I introns have commonalities with DNA transposons, while group II introns share many features with retrotransposons. Here, we report the results of an analysis of 214 introns (including group I, group II, group III, twintrons, spliceosomal, and archaeal introns) from members of seven major taxa (within Eukarya, Bacteria, and Archaea) that all have direct repeats at or near both exon/intron borders, indicating that they were inserted via transposition events. Border sequence analysis indicates that after splicing, most mature transcripts would be functionally compromised because they do not restore the DNA sequence information before intron insertion. Transposons and introns thus appear to be members of a diverse assemblage of parasitic mobile genetic elements that secondarily may benefit their host cell and have expanded greatly in eukaryotes from their presumed prokaryotic ancestors.

Author Summary

Introns are found in all domains of life. While they are limited in prokaryotes, they have greatly expanded in number and diversity in eukaryotes. We found direct repeat sequences at or near both exon/intron borders for all 214 introns analyzed among eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea. We infer that all introns were inserted into genes via transposon-like mechanisms and are members of a large family of mobile genetic elements.
Efficient modulation of a barium metal–organic framework using amino acids
Authors: Safari Manije , Sedghiniya Sima , Soleimannejad Janet , Janczak Jan
Published: February 2023

In recent years, significant advances have been made in the precise control of the physical properties of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) via the linker-modulated method in which modulators compete with linkers and impose kinetic limitations through crystal growth. In this regard, the structure of a new barium–organic framework [Ba(H2BTC)2(H2O)4]
n
, BaBTC (BTC = 1,3,5-benzene tricarboxylic acid) is introduced, which allows the competitive coordination strategy and growth orientation of an alkaline-earth metal–organic framework (AEMOF) to be probed without sacrificing phase purity, porosity and crystallinity. The modulator effect of an assortment of amino acids on the particle size and morphology of BaBTC is investigated. Additionally, another new MOF [Ba(BTC)2(H2O)3]
n
.nH2O, BaBTC-2, is synthesized through a change in the ligand concentration. This work gives a successful example of a modulation method for AEMOF synthesis by amino acids that may contribute towards targeting future avenues of nanomaterial synthesis.
Cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility analyses of a web‐based computer‐tailored intervention for prevention of binge drinking among Spanish adolescents
Authors: Vargas‐Martínez Ana Magdalena , Lima‐Serrano Marta , Trapero‐Bertran Marta
Published: February 2023

Background

Binge drinking (BD) among adolescents is a public health concern worldwide. This study assessed the cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility of a web‐based computer‐tailored intervention to prevent BD in adolescence.

Methods

The sample was drawn from a study evaluating the Alerta Alcohol program. The population consisted of adolescents 15 to 19 years of age. Data were recorded at baseline (January to February 2016) and after 4 months (May to June 2017) and were used to estimate costs and health outcomes, as measured by the number of BD occasions and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs). Incremental cost‐effectiveness and cost‐utility ratios were calculated from National Health Service (NHS) and societal perspectives and for a time horizon of 4 months. A multivariate deterministic sensitivity analysis of best/worst scenarios by subgroups was used to account for uncertainty.

Results

The cost of reducing BD occasions by one per month was €16.63 from the NHS perspective, which from the societal perspective resulted in savings of €7986.37. From the societal perspective, the intervention resulted in an incremental cost of €71.05 per QALY gained from the NHS perspective and this was dominant, resulting in savings of €34,126.64 per QALY gained in comparison with the control group. Subgroup analyses showed that the intervention was dominant for girls from both the perspectives and for individuals 17 years or older from the NHS perspective.

Conclusions

Computer‐tailored feedback is a cost‐effective way to reduce BD and increase QALYs among adolescents. However, long‐term follow‐up is needed to evaluate more fully changes in both BD and health‐related quality of life.
Population pharmacokinetics of amikacin in suspected cases of neonatal sepsis
Authors: Severino Nicolas , Urzúa Soledad , Ibacache Mauricio , Paulos Claudio , Cortínez Luis , Toso Alberto , Leguizamon Liliana , Inojosa Rocío , Maccioni Andrea , Meza Sebastián , García Andrés , Ramírez Marcelo , Von Mentlen Catalina , Ceballos Javiera , Paredes Noemí
Published: February 2023

Aims

This study aimed to characterize the population pharmacokinetic parameters of intravenously administered amikacin in newborns and assess the effect of sepsis in amikacin exposure.

Methods

Newborns aged ≥3 days who received at least 1 dose of amikacin during their hospitalization period were eligible for the study. Amikacin was administered intravenously during a 60‐min infusion period. Three venous blood samples were taken from each patient during the first 48 h. Population pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were obtained using a population approach with the programme NONMEM.

Results

Data from 329 drug assay samples were obtained from 116 newborn patients (postmenstrual age [PMA] 38.3, range 32–42.4 weeks; weight 2.8, range 1.6–3.8 kg). Measured amikacin concentrations ranged from 0.8 to 56.4 mg/L. A 2‐compartment model with linear elimination produced a good fit of the data. Estimated parameters for a typical subject (2.8 kg, 38.3 weeks) were clearance (Cl = 0.16 L/h), intercompartmental clearance (Q = 0.15 L/h), volume of distribution of the central compartment (Vc = 0.98 L) and peripheral volume of distribution (Vp = 1.23 L). Total bodyweight, PMA and the presence of sepsis positively influenced Cl. Plasma creatinine concentration and circulatory instability (shock) negatively influenced Cl.

Conclusion

Our main results confirm previous findings showing that weight, PMA and renal function are relevant factors influencing newborn amikacin pharmacokinetics. In addition, current results showed that pathophysiological states of critically ill neonates, such as sepsis and shock, were associated with opposite effects in amikacin clearance and should be considered in dose adjustments.
Ethical challenges in the prioritization of elective care in pandemic settings: On the significance of time‐sensitive scoring
Authors: Diner Sarah , Ritter Manuel , Gadebusch Bondio Mariacarla
Published: February 2023

In times of ongoing resource shortages, appropriate evaluation criteria are crucial for the ethical prioritization of medical care. While the use of scoring models as tools for prioritization is widespread, they are barely discussed in the medical‐ethical discourse in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. During this time, the challenge of providing care for patients in need has promoted consequentialist reasoning. In this light, we advocate for the integration of time‐ and context‐sensitive scoring (TCsS) models in prioritization policies that foster treatment opportunities for patients with subacute and chronic conditions. We argue, first, that TCsSs enable a more efficient use of resources, reducing avoidable harm to patients by preventing arbitrary postponement of necessary but nonurgent interventions. Second, we contend that on an interrelational level, TCsSs render decision‐making pathways more transparent, which promotes the information requirement of patient autonomy and raises confidence in the resulting prioritization decision. Third, we claim that TCsS contributes to distributive justice by reallocating available resources to the benefit of elective patients. We conclude that TCsSs promote anticipatory measures that extend the timeframe for responsible action into the future. This strengthens patients' ability to exercise their right to healthcare—primarily during times of crisis, but ultimately in the longer term too.
Food anaphylaxis in the elderly: Analysis of allergy vigilance network data from 2002 to 2021
Authors: El Hanache Hassan , Perennec Tanguy , Beaumont Pascale , Puillandre Erick , Schwender Denis , Louis Donguy Frédérique , Froidefond Claudine , Jarlot Sophie , Petit Nicolas , Nootens Carine , Pirson Françoise , Sullerot Isabelle , Nicolie Brigitte , Van der Brempt Xavier , Morisset Martine
Published: February 2023

Background

Few studies have focused on food allergies in the elderly, even though it may persist or appear de novo.

Methods

We reviewed data for all cases of food‐induced anaphylaxis in people age ≥ 60 reported to the French “Allergy Vigilance Network” (RAV) between 2002 and 2021. RAV collates data reported by French‐speaking allergists regarding cases of anaphylaxis graded II to IV according to the Ring and Messmer classification.

Results

In total, 191 cases were reported, with an even sex distribution and mean age was 67.4 years (range 60 to 93). The most frequent allergens were mammalian meat and offal (31 cases, 16.2%), often associated with IgE to α‐Gal. Legumes were reported in 26 cases (13.6%), fruits and vegetables in 25 cases (13.1%), shellfish 25 cases (13.1%), nuts 20 cases (10.5%), cereals 18 cases (9.4%), seeds 10 cases (5.2%), fish 8 cases (4.2%) and anisakis 8 cases (4.2%). Severity was grade II in 86 cases (45%), grade III in 98 cases (52%) and grade IV in 6 cases (3%) with one death. Most episodes occurred at home or in a restaurant and in most cases adrenaline was not used to treat the acute episode. Potentially relevant cofactors such as beta‐blocker, alcohol or non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug intake were present in 61% of cases. Chronic cardiomyopathy, present in 11.5% of the population, was associated with greater, grade III or IV reaction severity (OR 3.4; 1.24–10.95).

Conclusion

Anaphylaxis in the elderly has different causes to younger people and requires detailed diagnostic testing and individualized care plans.
Bell's palsy and pregnancy: Incidence, comorbidities and complications. A meta‐analysis and systematic review of the literature
Authors: Carmel Neiderman Narin N. , Netanyahu Yael , Ungar Omer J. , Handzel Ophir , Masarwy Razan , Abu‐Eta Rani , Reicher Lee , Oron Yahav
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Data on the association between Bell's palsy (BP) and pregnancy is scarce and there is an ongoing debate regarding the association of BP and pregnancy.

Main Outcome Measures

We aimed to investigate the prevalence of BP among pregnant patients and determine the frequency of pregnant women in BP cohorts and vice versa, assess which term of the pregnancy and peripartum bears a higher risk for BP occurrence, and determine the prevalence of maternal comorbidities associated with BP during pregnancy.

Design

Meta analysis.

Settings

Screening standard articles and extracting data from Ovid MEDLINE (1960–2021), Embase (1960–2021), and Web of Science (1960–2021). All study types were included except for case reports.

Measures

Data were pooled by means of both fixed and random‐effects models.

Results

The search strategy identified 147 records. Twenty‐five of the studies that met our inclusion criteria described 809 pregnant patients with BP in a total of 11,813 BP patients and they were included in the meta‐analysis. The incidence of BP among the pregnant patients was 0.05%; The incidence of pregnant patients among all BP patients was 6.62%. Most of the BP occurrences were during the third trimester (68.82%). The pooled incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus; hypertension; pre‐eclampsia/eclampsia and fetal complications among the pregnant patients with BP was 6.3%, 13.97%, 9.54%, and 6.74%, respectively.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis revealed a low incidence of BP during pregnancy. A Higher proportion occurred during the third trimester. The association of BP and pregnancy warrants further exploration.
Post‐kidney transplant body mass index trajectories are associated with graft loss and mortality
Authors: Liu Yi , Bendersky Victoria A. , Chen Xiaomeng , Ghildayal Nidhi , Harhay Meera N. , Segev Dorry L. , McAdams‐DeMarco Mara
Published: February 2023

Background

Early post‐kidney transplantation (KT) changes in physiology, medications, and health stressors likely impact body mass index (BMI) and likely impact all‐cause graft loss and mortality.

Methods

We estimated 5‐year post‐KT (n = 151 170; SRTR) BMI trajectories using an adjusted mixed effects model. We estimated long‐term mortality and graft loss risks by 1‐year BMI change quartile (decrease [1st quartile]: change < −.07 kg/m2/month; stable [2nd quartile]: −.07 ≤ change ≤ .09 kg/m2/month; increase [3rd, 4th quartile]: change > .09 kg/m2/month) using adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

BMI increased in the 3 years post‐KT (.64 kg/m2/year, 95% CI: .63, .64) and decreased in years 3–5 (−.24 kg/m2/year, 95% CI: −.26, −.22). 1‐year post‐KT BMI decrease was associated with elevated risks of all‐cause mortality (aHR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.10–1.16), all‐cause graft loss (aHR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.10–1.15), death‐censored graft loss (aHR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.11–1.19), and mortality with functioning graft (aHR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.08–1.14). Among recipients with obesity (pre‐KT BMI≥30 kg/m2), BMI increase was associated with higher all‐cause mortality (aHR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.05–1.14), all‐cause graft loss (aHR = 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09), and mortality with functioning graft (aHR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.05–1.15) risks, but not death‐censored graft loss risks, relative to stable weight. Among individuals without obesity, BMI increase was associated with lower all‐cause graft loss (aHR = .97, 95% CI: .95–.99) and death‐censored graft loss (aHR = .93, 95% CI: .90–.96) risks, but not all‐cause mortality or mortality with functioning graft risks.

Conclusions

BMI increases in the 3 years post‐KT, then decreases in years 3–5. BMI loss in all adult KT recipients and BMI gain in those with obesity should be carefully monitored post‐KT.
Trends and cyclic variation in the incidence of childhood type 1 diabetes in two Italian regions over 33 years and during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Gesuita Rosaria , Rabbone Ivana , Marconi Vittorio , De Sanctis Luisa , Marino Monica , Tiberi Valentina , Iannilli Antonio , Tinti Davide , Favella Lucia , Giorda Carlo , Carle Flavia , Cherubini Valentino
Published: February 2023

Aim

There is conflicting evidence about the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the incidence of type 1 diabetes. Here, we analysed long‐term trends in the incidence of type 1 diabetes in Italian children and adolescents from 1989 to 2019 and compared the incidence observed during the COVID‐19 pandemic with that estimated from long‐term data.

Materials and Methods

This was a population‐based incidence study using longitudinal data from two diabetes registries in mainland Italy. Trends in the incidence of type 1 diabetes from 1 January 1989 to 31 December 2019 were estimated using Poisson and segmented regression models.

Results

There was a significant increasing trend in the incidence of type 1 diabetes of 3.6% per year [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.4‐4.8] between 1989 and 2003, a breakpoint in 2003, and then a constant incidence until 2019 (0.5%, 95% CI: ‐1.3 to 2.4). There was a significant 4‐year cycle in incidence over the entire study period. The rate observed in 2021 (26.7, 95% CI: 23.0‐30.9) was significantly higher than expected (19.5, 95% CI: 17.6‐21.4; p = .010).

Conclusion

Long‐term incidence analysis showed an unexpected increase in new cases of type 1 diabetes in 2021. The incidence of type 1 diabetes now needs continuous monitoring using population registries to understand better the impact of COVID‐19 on new‐onset type 1 diabetes in children.
Tripeptide gut hormone infusion does not alter food preferences or sweet taste function in volunteers with obesity and prediabetes/diabetes but promotes restraint eating: A secondary analysis of a randomized single‐blind placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Behary Preeshila , Alessimii Haya , Miras Alexander D. , Tharakan George , Alexiadou Kleopatra , Aldhwayan Madhawi M. , Purkayastha Sanjay , Moorthy Krishna , Ahmed Ahmed R. , Bloom Stephen R. , Tan Tricia M.
Published: February 2023

Aims

To investigate whether the elevation in postprandial concentrations of the gut hormones glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), oxyntomodulin (OXM) and peptide YY (PYY) accounts for the beneficial changes in food preferences, sweet taste function and eating behaviour after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

Materials and methods

This was a secondary analysis of a randomized single‐blind study in which we infused GLP‐1, OXM, PYY (GOP) or 0.9% saline subcutaneously for 4 weeks in 24 subjects with obesity and prediabetes/diabetes, to replicate their peak postprandial concentrations, as measured at 1 month in a matched RYGB cohort (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01945840). A 4‐day food diary and validated eating behaviour questionnaires were completed. Sweet taste detection was measured using the method of constant stimuli. Correct sucrose identification (corrected hit rates) was recorded, and sweet taste detection thresholds (EC50s: half maximum effective concencration values) were derived from concentration curves. The intensity and consummatory reward value of sweet taste were assessed using the generalized Labelled Magnitude Scale.

Results

Mean daily energy intake was reduced by 27% with GOP but no significant changes in food preferences were observed, whereas a reduction in fat and increase in protein intake were seen post‐RYGB. There was no change in corrected hit rates or detection thresholds for sucrose detection following GOP infusion. Additionally, GOP did not alter the intensity or consummatory reward value of sweet taste. A significant reduction in restraint eating, comparable to the RYGB group was observed with GOP.

Conclusion

The elevation in plasma GOP concentrations after RYGB is unlikely to mediate changes in food preferences and sweet taste function after surgery but may promote restraint eating.
Population attributable fractions of modifiable risk factors for microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes in China: An analysis using national cross‐sectional data
Authors: Lin Chu , Zhu Xingyun , Jiao Ruoyang , Cai Xiaoling , Hu Suiyuan , Lv Fang , Yang Wenjia , Li Zonglin , Ji Linong
Published: February 2023

Aim

To assess the population attributable fractions (PAFs) for modifiable risk factors for microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in China.

Materials and Methods

Data collected from the China National HbA1c Surveillance System from 2009 to 2013 were used. The PAFs of four predefined risk factors, including an HbA1c of 7% or higher, blood pressure (BP) of 130/80 mmHg or higher, low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) of 1.8 mmol/L or higher and body mass index (BMI) of 24 kg/m2 or higher, were calculated for diabetic microvascular complications, including diabetic retinopathy (DR), diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN). PAFs were further adjusted for age, sex and duration of diabetes.

Results

In total, there were 998 379 participants with T2D from nationwide mainland China included in this analysis. As for DR, an HbA1c of 7% or higher, BP of 130/80 mmHg or higher, LDL‐C of 1.8 mmol/L or higher and BMI of 24 kg/m2 or higher conferred PAFs of 16.2%, 15.2%, 5.8% and 2.8%, respectively. In the case of DKD, BP of 130/80 mmHg or higher provided a PAF of 25.2%, followed by an HbA1c of 7% or higher (13.9%), BMI of 24 kg/m2 or higher (8.0%) and LDL‐C of 1.8 mmol/L or higher (5.6%). As for DSPN, an HbA1c of 7% or higher, BP of 130/80 mmHg or higher, LDL‐C of 1.8 mmol/L or higher and BMI of 24 kg/m2 or higher contributed to PAFs of 14.2%, 11.7%, 5.9% and 5.8%, respectively. PAFs for diabetic microvascular complications were mildly to moderately reduced after adjusting for participants' age, sex and duration of diabetes.

Conclusions

Suboptimal glycaemic and BP control were the main contributors to diabetic microvascular complications, while the PAFs of unmet LDL‐C and BMI control targets were quite limited for diabetic microvascular complications. In addition to glycaemic control, BP control should be especially prioritized in the management of diabetic microvascular complications to further reduce the disease burden.
Contingent impacts of COVID relief policies under global value chain shortage
Authors: Wu Ruohan
Published: February 2023

This paper empirically investigates how governments' COVID‐19 relief policies have affected firms in 14 post‐communist economies under the global value chain shortage between May 2020 and January 2022. We construct a panel dataset with firms that were continuously observed in three rounds of the World Bank's COVID‐19 survey to comprehensively evaluate the dynamic changes in the firms' value chains, production, and finances. We further estimate the determinants of these changes, especially the roles played by the government. We find that under the impact of COVID‐19, (1) reduced production capacity or reduced supply significantly increased the likelihood of reduced production and finances, whereas reduced demand had the opposite impact; (2) receiving support from the government augmented the impacts of affected production capacities and value chains; (3) among firms with restricted capacity or supplies, receiving government support increased the likelihood of reduced production and finances; and (4) among firms with abundant capacity and supplies, receiving government support lowered the likelihood of reduced production and finances. Other variables, such as firms' size, remote workforce, online businesses, and exports, also exhibit significant influences.
Identification of putative noncanonical driver mutations in patients with essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Arai Akihiko , Yoshimitsu Makoto , Otsuka Maki , Ito Yoshikiyo , Miyazono Takayoshi , Nakano Nobuaki , Obama Kosuke , Nakashima Hidetoshi , Hanada Shuichi , Owatari Satsuki , Nakamura Daisuke , Tokunaga Masahito , Kamada Yuhei , Utsunomiya Atae , Haraguchi Koichi , Hayashida Maiko , Fujino Satoshi , Odawara Jun , Tabuchi Tomohisa , Suzuki Shinsuke , Hamada Heiichiro , Kawamoto Yoshiko , Uchida Yuichiro , Hachiman Miho , Ishitsuka Kenji
Published: February 2023

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) cases without canonical JAK2, CALR, or MPL mutations, that is, triple‐negative (TN) ET, have been found in 10%–20% of ET cases. Owing to the limited number of TN ET cases, its clinical significance remains unclear. This study evaluated TN ET's clinical characteristics and identified novel driver mutations. Among 119 patients with ET, 20 (16.8%) had no canonical JAK2/CALR/MPL mutations. Patients with TN ET tended to be younger and had lower white blood cell counts and lactate dehydrogenase values. We identified putative driver mutations in 7 (35%): MPL S204P, MPL L265F, JAK2 R683G, and JAK2 T875N were previously reported as candidate driver mutations in ET. Moreover, we identified a THPO splicing site mutation, MPL*636Wext*12, and MPL E237K. Four of the seven identified driver mutations were germline. Functional studies on MPL*636Wext*12 and MPL E237K revealed that they are gain‐of‐function mutants that increase MPL signaling and confer thrombopoietin hypersensitivity with very low efficiency. Patients with TN ET tended to be younger, although this was thought to be due to the inclusion of germline mutations, hereditary thrombocytosis. Accumulating the genetic and clinical characteristics of noncanonical mutations may help future clinical interventions in TN ET and hereditary thrombocytosis.
What's trust got to do with it? Examining trust in leadership, psychological capital, and employee well‐being in a cross‐national context during Covid‐19
Authors: Babu Nishat , Fletcher Luke , Pichler Shaun , Budhwar Pawan
Published: February 2023

We propose and test the idea that trust in the senior leadership team is needed to help overcome the potential widespread decrements to employee well‐being resulting from the Covid‐19 pandemic. Drawing on conservation of resources theory, we suggest that psychological capital mediates the relationship between trust in the senior leadership team's response to Covid‐19 and employee well‐being. We also examine the contextual relevance of line management's servant leadership alongside country differences (i.e., India vs. UK) in reinforcing the importance of trust in fostering psychological capital. We test our model in a time‐lagged survey study that follows employed individuals towards the early, middle, and later stages of the first wave of the pandemic in 2020. Results provide support for our model and indicate potential country differences. Our findings point to the significance of leadership, both at the senior level and at the line management level, in protecting employee well‐being during crises.
Iron accumulation and axonal damage of cerebellum in idiopathic cervical dystonia
Authors: Li Hongxia , Zhang Ming , Wu Yunhao , Li Yufei , Feng Ruimin , Shen Xiaohui , Wang Yuhan , Sun Xiaoyu , Xue Wenjie , Chen Shengdi , Wei Hongjiang , Wu Yiwen
Published: February 2023

Background and purpose

Postmortem brain study indicated that cerebellar Purkinje cell (PC) loss might be a pathological finding in patients with inherited and idiopathic cervical dystonia (ICD). The analysis of conventional magnetic resonance imaging brain scans failed to yield support for this finding. Previous studies have identified that iron overload can be the consequence of neuron death. The objectives of this study were to investigate iron distribution and demonstrate changes in axons in the cerebellum, providing evidence for PC loss in patients with ICD.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with ICD (20 females) and 28 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were recruited. A spatially unbiased infratentorial template was applied to perform cerebellum optimized quantitative susceptibility mapping and diffusion tensor analysis based on magnetic resonance imaging. Voxel‐wise analysis was performed to assess cerebellar tissue magnetic susceptibility and fractional anisotropy (FA) alterations, and the clinical relevance of these findings was investigated in the patients with ICD.

Results

Increased susceptibility values revealed by quantitative susceptibility mapping in the right lobule CrusI, CrusII, VIIb, VIIIa, VIIIb and IX were found in the patients with ICD. A reduced FA value was found across almost all the cerebellum; an FA value of the significant clusters within the right lobule VIIIa significantly correlated with the motor severity of patients with ICD (r = −0.575,p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Our study provided evidence for cerebellar iron overload and axonal damage in patients with ICD, which may indicate PC loss and related axonal changes. These results provide evidence for the neuropathological findings in patients with ICD and further highlight the cerebellar involvement in the pathophysiology of dystonia.
Crustacean zooplankton densities in northern temperate lakes are related to habitat temperature across a wide gradient in lake dissolved organic carbon and nutrient content
Authors: Kelly Patrick T. , Jones Stuart E.
Published: February 2023

Lake crustacean zooplankton densities often are negatively correlated with terrestrial dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations. These reductions in zooplankton with increased DOC are hypothesised to be linked to diminished resource quantity or lower resource quality as terrestrial material is low in essential nutrients and macromolecules. The impact of DOC on lake physics also potentially reduces available habitat for zooplankton as the warm and well‐oxygenated epilimnion is shallower in lakes with high DOC concentrations. Our goal was to investigate these potential mechanisms to determine the influence of DOC on drivers of zooplankton densities in a survey of north temperate lakes.

We sampled crustacean zooplankton densities in 10 lakes that varied in mean DOC concentration from 6 to 27 mg L−1. We also measured resource availability as chlorophyll concentration, resource quality as essential fatty acid (EFA) concentration and the stoichiometric ratio of carbon‐to‐phosphorus (C:P), and habitat availability as integrated habitat temperature and dissolved oxygen to determine the strongest predictor of zooplankton densities across lakes. In addition, we quantified zooplankton habitat use through Schindler trap profiles through the water column.

Zooplankton densities were most strongly related to integrated habitat temperature and were not closely related to measures of resource quantity or quality. Depth of the mix layer was negatively correlated with DOC concentration, yet there was no relationship between DOC concentration and zooplankton habitat use. Overall resource quantity and quality increased across the DOC gradient, as chlorophyll and EFA concentration were greatest in lakes with higher DOC.

Our results indicate the potential for physics‐mediated responses between lake DOC and zooplankton density. As lakes with greater DOC concentrations have, on average, shallower mixed layers and colder habitats, zooplankton may either be constrained to a relatively smaller proportion of the catchment or experience reduced temperatures that may delay development or feeding rates.

Lake DOC concentrations are projected to increase under future climate scenarios, so accompanying changes in lake temperature profiles are likely to follow. These also may reduce food‐web productivity, as shrinking mixed layers or colder total water columns resulting from steeper thermoclines may reduce habitat availability or suitability for zooplankton communities.
Polygenic risk score for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and brain functional networks segregation in a community‐based sample
Authors: Sato João Ricardo , Biazoli Claudinei Eduardo , Bueno Ana Paula Arantes , Caye Arthur , Pan Pedro Mario , Santoro Marcos , Honorato‐Mauer Jessica , Salum Giovanni Abrahão , Hoexter Marcelo Queiroz , Bressan Rodrigo Affonseca , Jackowski Andrea Parolin , Miguel Euripedes Constantino , Belangero Sintia , Rohde Luis Augusto
Published: February 2023

Neuroimaging studies suggest that brain development mechanisms might explain at least some behavioural and cognitive attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms. However, the putative mechanisms by which genetic susceptibility factors influence clinical features via alterations of brain development remain largely unknown. Here, we set out to integrate genomics and connectomics tools by investigating the associations between an ADHD polygenic risk score (ADHD‐PRS) and functional segregation of large‐scale brain networks. With this aim, ADHD symptoms score, genetic and rs‐fMRI (resting‐state functional magnetic resonance image) data obtained in a longitudinal community‐based cohort of 227 children and adolescents were analysed. A follow‐up was conducted approximately 3 years after the baseline, with rs‐fMRI scanning and ADHD likelihood assessment in both stages. We hypothesised a negative correlation between probable ADHD and the segregation of networks involved in executive functions, and a positive correlation with the default‐mode network (DMN). Our findings suggest that ADHD‐PRS is correlated with ADHD at baseline, but not at follow‐up. Despite not surviving for multiple comparison correction, we found significant correlations between ADHD‐PRS and segregation of cingulo‐opercular networks and DMN at baseline. ADHD‐PRS was negatively correlated with the segregation level of cingulo‐opercular networks but positively correlated with the DMN segregation. These directions of associations corroborate the proposed counter‐balanced role of attentional networks and DMN in attentional processes. However, the association between ADHD‐PRS and brain networks functional segregation was not found at follow‐up. Our results provide evidence for specific influences of genetic factors on development of attentional networks and DMN.

We found significant correlations between polygenic risk score for ADHD (ADHD‐PRS) and segregation of cingulo‐opercular networks and default‐mode network (DMN) at baseline. ADHD‐PRS was negatively correlated with the segregation level of cingulo‐opercular networks but positively correlated with the DMN segregation.
The Patient Activation Measure (PAM) and the pandemic: Predictors of patient activation among Australian health consumers during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Dammery Genevieve , Vitangcol Kathryn , Ansell James , Ellis Louise A. , Smith Carolynn L. , Carrigan Ann , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Zurynski Yvonne
Published: February 2023

Background

Preventative healthcare is crucial for improving individual patient outcomes and is integral to sustainable health systems. The effectiveness of prevention programs is enhanced by activated populations who are capable of managing their own health and are proactive to keep themselves well. However, little is known about the level of activation among people drawn from general populations. We used the Patient Activation Measure (PAM) to address this knowledge gap.

Methods

A representative, population‐based survey of Australian adults was conducted in October 2021 during the Delta strain outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Comprehensive demographic information was collected, and the participants completed the Kessler‐6 psychological distress scale (K6) and PAM. Multinomial and binomial logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the effect of demographic factors on PAM scores, which are categorised into four levels: 1—participants disengaged with their health; 2—becoming aware of how to manage their health; 3—acting on their health; and 4—engaging with preventative healthcare and advocating for themselves.

Results

Of 5100 participants, 7.8% scored at PAM level 1; 13.7% level 2, 45.3% level 3, and 33.2% level 4. The mean score was 66.1, corresponding to PAM level 3. More than half of the participants (59.2%) reported having one or more chronic conditions. Respondents aged 18 to 24 years old were twice as likely to score PAM level 1 compared with people aged 25–44 (p < .001) or people aged over 65 years (p < .05). Speaking a language other than English at home was significantly associated with having low PAM (p < .05). Greater psychological distress scores (K6) were significantly predictive of low PAM scores (p < .001).

Conclusion

Overall, Australian adults showed high levels of patient activation in 2021. People with lower incomes, of younger age, and those experiencing psychological distress were more likely to have low activation. Understanding the level of activation enables targeting sociodemographic groups for extra support to increase the capacity to engage in prevention activities. Conducted during the COVID‐19 pandemic, our study provides a baseline for comparison as we move out of the pandemic and associated restrictions and lockdowns.

Patient or Public Contribution

The study and survey questions were co‐designed with consumer researchers from the Consumers Health Forum of Australia (CHF) as equal partners. Researchers from CHF were involved in the analysis of data and production of all publications using data from the consumer sentiment survey.
Charity and philanthropy in Middle East history
Authors: Fallas Amy
Published: February 2023

Until the late 20th century, few studies focused on the history of charity and philanthropy in the Middle East from the medieval to modern periods. The work that explored this subject largely concentrated on the ideals of charitable practices, such as the faith‐based tenets of social welfare as an Islamic communal practice and the religiously mandated form of almsgiving (zakat). But during the late 1990s, a new generation of scholars challenged the assumption of charity across the region asonlya pious act and sought to address the dearth of literature on the subject. They shifted critical focus onto the history of philanthropy to consider and account for the social, economic, and political structures that shaped a wide range of charitable practices, activities, institutions, benefactors, and recipients. They also interrogated how communities determined the parameters of need, developed notions of the “deserving poor,” and mediated the relationship between the ideals and practices of beneficence. Overlapping fields such as social history and women's studies as well as analytics of gender, class, and national identity informed and advanced historical studies of charity and philanthropy across the Middle East. The subfield continues to innovate with new work across academic disciplines and new publishing venues for further studies of charity in the region across time periods.
Unplanned pregnancies and social and partner support during pregnancy in Spanish women living with HIV
Authors: Ruiz‐Algueró Marta , Izquierdo Rebeca , Suárez‐García Ines , Moreno Cristina , Alejos Belen , Rava Marta , Moreno Santiago , Montero Alonso Marta , Gutiérrez Felix , Gutierrez Cuellar Isabel , Curran Adrián , Hernando Victoria , Jarrín Inma ,   Cohort of the Spanish HIV/AIDS Research Network (CoRIS)
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To describe prevalence and factors associated with unplanned pregnancies, and social and partner support during pregnancy among women from the Cohort of the Spanish HIV/AIDS Research Network (CoRIS).

Methods

We included all women recruited in CoRIS from 2004 to 2019, aged 18–50 years at recruitment who were pregnant during 2020. We designed a questionnaire, organized into the following domains: sociodemographic characteristics, tobacco and alcohol consumption, pregnancy and reproductive health, and social and partner support. The information was gathered via telephone interviews conducted from June to December 2021. We calculated prevalence of unplanned pregnancies as well as odds ratios (ORs) of association and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) according to sociodemographic, clinical and reproductive characteristics.

Results

Among 53 women who were pregnant during 2020, 38 (71.7%) answered the questionnaire. Median age at pregnancy was 36 years [interquartile range (IQR) 31–39], 27 (71.1%) women were born outside of Spain, mainly in sub‐Saharan Africa (39.5%) and 17 (44.7%) were employed. Thirty‐four (89.5%) women had been through previous pregnancies and 32 (84.2%) had experienced previous abortions/miscarriages. Seventeen (44.7%) women had shared with their clinician their desire to get pregnant.

Thirty‐four (89.5%) pregnancies were natural and four used assisted reproductive techniques (in vitro fertilizations; one additionally used oocyte donation). Of 34 women with natural pregnancies, pregnancy was unplanned in 21 (61.8%) and 25 (73.5%) had information on how to become pregnant avoiding HIV transmission to the baby and partner. Women who did not seek advice from their physician about becoming pregnant had a significantly increased risk of unplanned pregnancy (OR = 71.25, 95% CI: 8.96–566.67).

Overall, 14 (36.8%) women reported having low social support during pregnancy and 27 (71.0%) had good/very good support by their partner.

Conclusions

Most pregnancies were natural and unplanned and very few women had talked with their clinician about their desire to become pregnant. A high proportion of women reported low social support during pregnancy.
Recycling of granite waste and burnt coal cinder for the preparation of sintered permeable bricks
Authors: Gui Yaqiong , Huang Min , Luo Yongpeng , Deng Chong , Zhou Zichen , Bao Shenxu
Published: February 2023

The sintered permeable brick was prepared using granite waste and burnt coal cinder (BCC) as raw materials to ensure the utmost utilization of both solid wastes. The effect of various parameters, such as the proportion of raw materials, granite particle size and sintering temperatures on the properties of the permeable brick were studied, and the relevant sintering mechanism was clarified. The differential scanning calorimetry curves indicate that the mixture of granite waste and BCC begins to melt at a lower temperature, which is lower than the temperature for melting them alone, so the use of them to prepare sintered bricks will reduce energy consumption. The optimal conditions for the preparation of the permeable bricks were determined as the mass ratio of granite waste to BCC of 80: 20, sintering temperature of 1150–1175°C, and granite particle size of .9–1.25 mm. It was found that the permeability and the flexural strength of the samples can reach 3.41 × 10 −2 cm/s and 4.2 MPa, respectively, which both exceed the requirements specified in the national standard of China.
A cross‐sectional study of avian influenza A virus in Myanmar live bird markets: Detection of a newly introduced H9N2?
Authors: Borkenhagen Laura K. , Aung Poe Poe , Htay Thura , Thein Zaw Win , Tin Ommar Swe , Mon Thet Su , Myint Win , Bailey Emily S. , Wanninger Timothy G. , Kandeil Ahmed M. , Webby Richard J. , Gray Gregory C.
Published: February 2023

Background

Zoonotic influenza surveillance in Myanmar is sparse, despite the risks of introduction of such viruses from neighboring countries that could impact the poultry industry and lead to spillover to humans.

Methods

In July and August 2019, our multi‐institutional partnership conducted a One Health‐oriented, cross‐sectional surveillance (weekly for 3 weeks) for influenza A and influenza D viruses at the three largest live bird markets in Yangon, Myanmar.

Results

The 27 bioaerosols, 90 bird cage swabs, 90 bird oropharyngeals, and 90 human nasopharyngeal samples yielded molecular influenza A detections in 8 bioaerosols (30.0%), 16 bird cages (17.8%), 15 bird oropharyngeals (16.7%), and 1 human nasopharyngeal (1.1%) samples. No influenza D was detected. Seven of the influenza A virus detections were found to be subtype A/H9N2, and one human nasopharyngeal sample was found to be subtype A/H1pdm. Among all IAV‐positive samples, three of the A/H9N2‐positive samples yielded live viruses from egg culture and their whole genome sequences revealing they belonged to the G9/Y280 lineage of A/H9N2 viruses. Phylogenetic analyses showed that these A/H9N2 sequences clustered separately from A/H9N2 viruses that were previously detected in Myanmar, supporting the notion that A/H9N2 viruses similar to those seen in wider Southeast Asia may have been introduced to Myanmar on multiple occasions.

Conclusions

These findings call for increased surveillance efforts in Myanmar to monitor for the introduction of novel influenza viruses in poultry, as well as possible reassortment and zoonotic virus transmission.
Evaluation of soybean genotypes grown under soil compaction
Authors: Capobiango Nayara Pereira , Bessa Giulia Badotti , de Oliveira Peris Gabriel Cordeiro , da Silva Felipe Lopes , dos Santos Dias Denise Cunha Fernandes , Fernandes Raphael Bragança Alves , da Silva Martha Freire , da Silva Laércio Junio
Published: February 2023

Soil compaction has caused negative impacts on soybean productivity due to the excessive use of machinery and heavy agricultural implements in the cultivation areas. Effects of two levels of soil compaction were investigated on 60 soybean genotypes in a field experiment. Soil properties, weather conditions in the region and changes in agronomic characteristics of the crop were evaluated. The genotypes were divided into three groups according to the relative maturity group (RMG) and classified according to stress susceptibility. Compaction increased soil density and soil mechanical resistance to penetration, varying according to the registered rainfall regime. The genotype responses to compaction in the three groups, in general, were increased seedling emergence (EME), initial height (IH), number of nodes (NN), shoot dry matter (SDM), and final height (FH) of the plants. However, there was a reduction in the relative growth rate (RCR), in the number of pods (NP), and in grain yield (PROD). From the calculation of the stress susceptibility index (SSI) it was possible to identify tolerant and sensitive soybean genotypes to soil compaction stress. SSI and the relative trait change index (RTC) indicated the responses that the tolerant genotypes present under conditions of high mechanical impedance. Therefore, soil compaction provides greater seedling emergence and vegetative growth, but significant losses in soybean yield. Soil compaction‐tolerant genotypes show smaller reductions in relative growth rate, absolute growth rate, final height, number of pods, and grain yield.