bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert opinion and public support of genetically modified food policy: Does deficit model work in China?
Authors: Shao Li , Ieong Meng U.
Published: January 2024

To what extent do expert opinions affect public opinion in policy making? While most existing studies were conducted in democracies, experts' influence under authoritarian settings is still understudied. This paper examines how expert opinion and vocational affiliation influence public attitudes toward genetically modified (GM) food in China. Through a survey experiment with over 1600 respondents, we find that experts' endorsement can increase policy support for GM food but that their opposition exerts no influence. Different vocational affiliations do not generate significantly different effects, although endorsement from foreign experts has larger effects than endorsement from domestic counterparts, who have closer connections with the Chinese government. We finally discuss the policy implications of expert involvement in policy making and promoting GM food in China based on the above findings.
Co‐precipitation of primary dolomite and Mg‐rich clays in Deep Springs Lake, California
Authors: Hobbs Franklin W. C. , Fang Yihang , Lebrun Noah , Yang Yiping , Xu Huifang
Published: January 2024

In contrast to the prevalence of dolomite [CaMg(CO3)2] in the geological record, there are few instances of recent formation. This discrepancy occurs despite supersaturation with respect to dolomite in many modern marine and lacustrine environments. Additionally, laboratory experiments have struggled to precipitate dolomite at ambient temperatures (<40°C) even under highly saturated conditions. However, recent work has found dissolved silica to be an effective catalyst for the direct precipitation of dolomite. To test this hypothesis, the hydrology and mineralogy of Deep Springs Lake, a playa setting with primary dolomite precipitation has been explored. In this study, the central playa sites with the highest sedimentation rates were found to have dissolved silica concentrations close to saturation. Rietveld refinement showed that bulk mineral assemblages of core samples contain 20 to 40% fine‐grained, partially ordered dolomite along with a 10 to 20% poorly crystalline clay fraction, while transmission electron microscopy imaging found a co‐precipitation relationship between the fine‐grained dolomite and Mg‐rich smectite clays, where the Mg‐rich smectite clays act as a sink for the excess dissolved silica during evaporation. Transmission electron microscopy results indicate that the nanodolomite crystals formed through surface‐induced nucleation and growth processes in the presence of dissolved silica as a catalyst. The broad coincidence of conditions for the direct precipitation of dolomite and Mg‐rich smectite clays provides evidence that silica may be a key to the dolomite problem, as well as constraining palaeoenvironments such as the Pre‐salt Barra Velha Formation.
The second variation of the Hodge norm and higher Prym representations
Authors: Marković Vladimir , Tošić Ognjen
Published: January 2024

Let denote a rational cohomology class, and let denote its Hodge norm. We recover the result that is a plurisubharmonic function on the Teichmüller space , and characterize complex directions along which the complex Hessian of vanishes. Moreover, we find examples of such that is not strictly plurisubharmonic. As part of this construction, we find an unbranched covering such that the subgroup of generated by lifts of simple curves from is strictly contained in . Finally, combining the characterization theorem with the Riemann–Roch, and the Li–Yau [Invent. Math. 69 (1982), no. 2, 269–291] gonality estimate, we show that geometrically uniform covers of satisfy the Putman–Wieland Conjecture about the induced Higher Prym representations.
An Investigation Into the Grinding Characteristics and Wear Evolution of Micro-Elastic Composite Grinding Pads
Authors: Tsai Feng-Che
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a novel micro-elastic composite grinding pad for material removal. The study also developed a new grinding wear formula grounded in microcontact mechanics, which is crucial in examining the evolution of interface characteristics under optimal parameter combinations. The results showed that the material removal rate (MRR), reduction of roughness height (σ), and peak curvature radius (ρ) increase were the highest in the initial stage, followed by a slight increase in the real-contact area in the second stage. This research suggests that abrasive particles primarily detach from the elastic pad in the second stage. The plasticity index (ψ) decreases during grinding, which suggests a transition from an elastic–plastic mixed contact interface to a predominantly elastic contact interface. This shift in the interface mechanics explains the gradual reduction in wear at the grinding interface. Both the plasticity index and the MRR are consistent throughout the grinding process. However, the plasticity index is a more effective index of interface wear than the conventional H/E ratio because it considers the surface roughness’s shape and size, which is essential in mild grinding operations. The findings of this study can be used to improve the design and performance of micro-elastic composite grinding pads and to optimize the grinding process for improved efficiency and sustainability.
Structure Synthesis of 3-DOF Translational Parallel Mechanisms With Configurable Platform of Translation
Authors: Zhang Jingyao , Yao Jiantao , Zhang Hongyu , Guo Jiawei , Zhang Shuai
Published: January 2024

The parallel mechanisms (PMs) with configurable platforms have the advantages of flexibility, high speed, and extra operability over PMs with common platforms. This paper proposes a systematic approach for synthesizing three-degrees-of-freedom (3-DOF) translational parallel mechanisms with configurable platforms of one translation DOF (TPMs-T) based on the finite screw. The motion relationship between the configurable platform and limbs is discussed to achieve the motion requirement of the TPMs-T limbs. The equivalence principle of kinematic joints is further pinpointed, and a series of lower mobility limbs have been developed. At last, the geometric relationship of assembly conditions is derived which can contribute to quickly solving the intersection of limb motions, a series of TPMs-T are constructed to verify the assembly conditions, and the fully controlled condition is discussed.
Dislocation avalanches in nanostructured molybdenum nanopillars
Authors: Hsiao Haw-Wen , Huang Jia-Hong , Zuo Jian-Min
Published: January 2024

We investigate intermittent plasticity in nanopillars of nanocrystalline molybdenum based on in situ transmission electron microscopy observations. By correlating electron imaging results with the measured nanopillar mechanical response, we demonstrate that the intermittent plasticity in nanocrystalline molybdenum is largely caused by dislocation avalanches. Electron imaging further reveals three types of dislocation avalanches, from intragranular to transgranular to cross-granular avalanches. The measured strain bursts resulted from avalanches have similar magnitudes to those reported for the molybdenum single-crystal pillars, while the corresponding flow stress in nanocrystalline molybdenum is greatly enhanced by the small grain size. Statistical analysis also shows that the avalanches behavior has similar characteristic as single crystals in the mean field theory model. Together, our findings here provide critical insights into the deformation mechanisms in a nanostructured body-centered-cubic metal.
Plasma nitridation for atomic layer etching of Ni
Authors: Smith Taylor G. , Ali Ali M. , de Marneffe Jean-François , Chang Jane P.
Published: January 2024

Nickel (Ni) and its alloys are important multifunctional materials for the fabrication of integrated circuits, as either the absorber for the extreme ultraviolet lithography masks and/or interconnect metals at the nanometer scale. However, these applications require that Ni to be patterned controllably, selectively, and anisotropically—requirements that can only be met with a plasma based atomic layer etch (ALE) process. In this work, a plasma-thermal ALE approach is developed to pattern Ni, utilizing a nitrogen plasma to form NixN at the surface, formic acid (FA) vapor to selectively remove the NixN layer, and a low-energy Ar+ sputter process to remove carbon residue left by the FA prior to the subsequent nitridation step. This three step ALE process was shown effective to etch Ni with a rate of 1.3 ± 0.17 nm/cycle while maintaining surface smoothness.
Extended theoretical modeling of reverse intersystem crossing for thermally activated delayed fluorescence materials
Authors: Hagai Masaya , Inai Naoto , Yasuda Takuma , Fujimoto Kazuhiro J. , Yanai Takeshi
Published: January 2024

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials and multi-resonant (MR) variants are promising organic emitters that can achieve an internal electroluminescence quantum efficiency of ~100%. The reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) is key for harnessing triplet energies for fluorescence. Theoretical modeling is thus crucial to estimate its rate constant (
k
RISC
) for material development. Here, we present a comprehensive assessment of the theory for simulating the RISC of MR-TADF molecules within a perturbative excited-state dynamics framework. Our extended rate formula reveals the importance of the concerted effects of nonadiabatic spin-vibronic coupling and vibrationally induced spin-orbital couplings in reliably determining
k
RISC
of MR-TADF molecules. The excited singlet-triplet energy gap is another factor influencing
k
RISC
. We present a scheme for gap estimation using experimental Arrhenius plots of
k
RISC
. Erroneous behavior caused by approximations in Marcus theory is elucidated by testing 121 MR-TADF molecules. Our extended modeling offers in-depth descriptions of
k
RISC
.
Overcoming adversaries in multirobot navigation
Authors: Matsiko Amos
Published: January 2024

A path-planning algorithm allows safe navigation of robot teams in cluttered environments while in the presence of adversaries.
Bone morphogenetic protein 9 is a candidate prognostic biomarker and host-directed therapy target for sepsis
Authors: Bai Haobo , Lu Qian , Wu Chunxiang , Xu Fang , Liu Jiayu , Wang Ke , Ding Hao , Yin Yibing , Liu Yi , Lai Xiaofei , Cao Ju
Published: January 2024

Defining next-generation immune therapeutics for the treatment of sepsis will involve biomarker-based therapeutic decision-making. Bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) is a cytokine in the transforming growth factor–β superfamily. Here, circulating BMP9 concentrations were quantified in two independent cohorts of patients with sepsis. Decreased concentrations of serum BMP9 were observed in the patients with sepsis at the time of admission as compared with healthy controls. Concentrations of BMP9 at the time of admission were also associated with 28-day mortality, because patients with sepsis at a higher risk of death had lower BMP9 concentrations. The mechanism driving the contribution of BMP9 to host immunity was further investigated using in vivo murine sepsis models and in vitro cell models. We found that BMP9 treatment improved outcome in mice with experimental sepsis. BMP9-treated mice exhibited increased macrophage influx into the peritoneal cavity and more efficient bacterial clearance than untreated mice. In vitro, BMP9 promoted macrophage recruitment, phagocytosis, and subsequent bacterial killing. We further found that deletion of the type 1 BMP receptor ALK1 in macrophages abolished BMP9-mediated protection against polymicrobial sepsis in vivo. Further experiments indicated that the regulation of macrophage activation by the BMP9-ALK1 axis was mainly mediated through the suppressor of mother against decapentaplegic 1/5 signaling pathway. Together, these results suggest that BMP9 can both serve as a biomarker for patient stratification with an independent prognostic value and be developed as a host-directed therapy for sepsis.
Ecology- and genome-based identification of the
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
prototype of the healthy human gut microbiota
Authors: Argentini Chiara , Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Tarracchini Chiara , Fontana Federico , Mancabelli Leonardo , Viappiani Alice , Anzalone Rosaria , Angelini Leonora , Alessandri Giulia , Bianchi Massimiliano G. , Taurino Giuseppe , Bussolati Ovidio , Milani Christian , van Sinderen Douwe , Turroni Francesca , Ventura Marco
Published: January 2024

Bifidobacteria are among the first microbial colonizers of the human gut, being frequently associated with human health-promoting activities. In the current study, an
in silico
methodology based on an ecological and phylogenomic-driven approach allowed the selection of a
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
prototype strain, i.e.,
B. adolescentis
PRL2023, which best represents the overall genetic content and functional features of the
B. adolescentis
taxon. Such features were confirmed by
in vitro
experiments aimed at evaluating the ability of this strain to survive in the gastrointestinal tract of the host and its ability to interact with human intestinal cells and other microbial gut commensals. In this context, co-cultivation of
B. adolescentis
PRL2023 and several gut commensals revealed various microbe-microbe interactions and indicated co-metabolism of particular plant-derived glycans, such as xylan.

IMPORTANCE

The use of appropriate bacterial strains in experimental research becomes imperative in order to investigate bacterial behavior while mimicking the natural environment. In the current study, through
in silico
and
in vitro
methodologies, we were able to identify the most representative strain of the
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
species. The ability of this strain,
B. adolescentis
PRL2023, to cope with the environmental challenges imposed by the gastrointestinal tract, together with its ability to switch its carbohydrate metabolism to compete with other gut microorganisms, makes it an ideal choice as a
B. adolescentis
prototype and a member of the healthy microbiota of adults. This strain possesses a genetic blueprint appropriate for its exploitation as a candidate for next-generation probiotics.
Advancements and challenges in antifungal therapeutic development
Authors: Puumala Emily , Fallah Sara , Robbins Nicole , Cowen Leah E.
Published: January 2024

Over recent decades, the global burden of fungal disease has expanded dramatically. It is estimated that fungal disease kills approximately 1.5 million individuals annually; however, the true worldwide burden of fungal infection is thought to be higher due to existing gaps in diagnostics and clinical understanding of mycotic disease. The development of resistance to antifungals across diverse pathogenic fungal genera is an increasingly common and devastating phenomenon due to the dearth of available antifungal classes. These factors necessitate a coordinated response by researchers, clinicians, public health agencies, and the pharmaceutical industry to develop new antifungal strategies, as the burden of fungal disease continues to grow. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the new antifungal therapeutics currently in clinical trials, highlighting their spectra of activity and progress toward clinical implementation. We also profile up-and-coming intracellular proteins and pathways primed for the development of novel antifungals targeting their activity. Ultimately, we aim to emphasize the importance of increased investment into antifungal therapeutics in the current continually evolving landscape of infectious disease.
Caffeic acid activates mitochondrial UPR to resist pathogen infection in
Caenorhabditis elegans
via the transcription factor ATFS-1
Authors: Xiao Yi , Hong Cao-an , Liu Fang , Shi Dandan , Zhu Xinting , Yu Changyan , Jiang Nian , Li Sanhua , Liu Yun
Published: January 2024

Mitochondria play roles in the resistance of
Caenorhabditis elegans
against pathogenic bacteria by regulating mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPR
mt
). Caffeic acid (CA) (3,4-dihydroxy cinnamic acid) is a major phenolic compound present in several plant species, which exhibits biological activities such as antioxidant, anti-fibrosis, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor properties. However, whether caffeic acid influences the innate immune response and the underlying molecular mechanisms remains unknown. In this study, we find that 20 µM caffeic acid enhances innate immunity to resist the Gram-negative pathogen
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infection in
C. elegans
. Meanwhile, caffeic acid also inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Furthermore, caffeic acid promotes host immune response by reducing the bacterial burden in the intestine. Through genetic screening in
C. elegans
, we find that caffeic acid promotes innate immunity via the transcription factor ATFS-1. In addition, caffeic acid activates the UPR
mt
and immune response genes for innate immune response through ATFS-1. Our work suggests that caffeic acid has the potential to protect patients from pathogen infection.
Establishment of a novel human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 infection model using cell-free virus
Authors: Nagata Koh , Tezuka Kenta , Kuramitsu Madoka , Fuchi Naoki , Hasegawa Yuri , Hamaguchi Isao , Miura Kiyonori
Published: January 2024

Co-culture of infected and target cells is frequently used for studying HTLV-1 infection. Although this method efficiently infects HTLV-1, the cell mixture is complex, and it is extremely difficult to distinguish donor infected cells from target cells. In contrast, cell-free HTLV-1 infection models allow for more strict experimental conditions. In this study, we established a novel and efficient cell-free HTLV-1 infection model. Using this model, we successfully evaluated the infectivity titers of cell-free HTLV-1 as proviral loads (copies per 100 cells) in various cell lines, primary cultured cells, and a humanized mouse model. Interestingly, the HTLV-1-associated viral biofilms played an important role in enhancing the infectivity of the cell-free infection model. This cell-free HTLV-1 infection model reproduces the replication cycle of HTLV-1 and provides a simple, powerful, and alternative tool for researching HTLV-1 infection.
Alternative translation contributes to the generation of a cytoplasmic subpopulation of the Junín virus nucleoprotein that inhibits caspase activation and innate immunity
Authors: Bostedt Linus , Fénéant Lucie , Leske Anne , Holzerland Julia , Günther Karla , Waßmann Irke , Bohn Patrick , Groseth Allison
Published: January 2024

A limited coding capacity means that RNA viruses need strategies to diversify their proteome. The nucleoprotein (NP) of the highly pathogenic arenavirus Junín virus (JUNV) produces three N-terminally truncated isoforms: two (NP
47kD
and NP
40kD
) are known to be produced by caspase cleavage, while, here, we show that NP
53kD
is produced by alternative translation initiation. Recombinant JUNVs lacking individual NP isoforms revealed that all three isoforms contribute to inhibiting caspase activation during infection, but cleavage to generate NP
40kD
makes the biggest contribution. Importantly, all three isoforms retain their ability to digest double-stranded (ds)RNA and inhibit interferon promoter activation but have a diffuse cytoplasmic distribution. Given the cytoplasmic localization of both aberrant viral dsRNAs, as well as dsRNA sensors and many other cellular components of innate immune activation pathways, we suggest that the generation of NP isoforms not only contributes to evasion of apoptosis but also robust control of the antiviral response.
N6-methyloxyadenine-mediated detoxification and ferroptosis confer a trade-off between multi-fungicide resistance and fitness
Authors: Zhang Borui , Wang Zhiwen , Zhang Sicong , Zhong Shan , Sun Ye , Liu Xili
Published: January 2024

Multi-fungicide resistance (MFR) is a serious environmental problem, which results in the excessive use of fungicides. Fitness penalty, as a common phenomenon in MFR, can partially counteract the issue of resistance due to the weakened vigor of MFR pathogens. Their underlying mechanism and relationship remain unexplained. By Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing and dot blot, we found that N6-methyloxyadenine (6mA) modification, the dominate epigenetic marker in
Phytophthora capsici
, was significantly altered after MFR emerged. Among the differently methylated genes,
PcGSTZ1
could efficiently detoxify SYP-14288, a novel uncoupler, through complexing the fungicide with glutathione and induce MFR. Interestingly,
PcGSTZ1
overexpression was induced by elevated 6mA levels and chromatin accessibility to its genomic loci. Moreover, the overexpression led to reactive oxygen species burst and ferroptosis in SYP-14288-resistant mutants, which enhanced the resistance and induced fitness penalty in
P. capsici
through triggering low energy shock adaptive response. Furthermore, this study revealed that the 6mA-PcGSTZ1-ferroptosis axis could mediate intergenerational resistance memory transmission and enabled adaptive advantage to
P. capsici
. In conclusion, the findings provide new insights into the biological role of 6mA as well as the mechanisms underlying the trade-off between MFR and fitness. These could also benefit disease control through the blockade of the epigenetic axis to resensitize resistant isolates.

IMPORTANCE

N6-methyloxyadenine (6mA) modification on DNA is correlated with tolerance under different stress in prokaryotes. However, the role of 6mA in eukaryotes remains poorly understood. Our current study reveals that DNA adenine methyltransferase 1 (DAMT1)-mediated 6mA modification at the upstream region of GST zeta 1 (GSTZ1) is elevated in the resistant strain. This elevation promotes the detoxification uncoupler and induces multifungicide resistance (MFR). Moreover, the overexpression led to reactive oxygen species burst and ferroptosis in SYP-14288-resistant mutants, which enhanced the resistance and induced fitness penalty in
Phytophthora capsici
through triggering low energy shock adaptive response. Furthermore, this study revealed that the 6mA-PcGSTZ1-ferroptosis axis could mediate intergenerational resistance memory transmission and enabled adaptive advantage to
P. capsici
. Overall, our findings uncover an innovative mechanism underlying 6mA modification in regulating PcGSTZ1 transcription and the ferroptosis pathway in
P. capsici
.
Complete genome of
Escherichia
phages Carena and JoYop
Authors: Addablah Audrey A. , Ngazoa-Kakou Solange E. , Adioumani Emmanuella A. , Labrie Simon J. , Tremblay Denise M. , Gunathilake Damitha , Moineau Sylvain
Published: January 2024

Escherichia
phages Carena and JoYop were isolated from water samples in Abidjan (Cote d’Ivoire). Their genomes comprise 39,283 and 169,193 bp, encoding 44 and 246 predicted genes, respectively. Carena shares 93.4% nucleotide identity with
Escherichia
podophage CarlSpitteler (
Berlinvirus
), and JoYop shows 95.6% identity with
Escherichia
myophage ADUt (
Tequatrovirus
).
Formation of a dome-and-basin fold interference pattern by granite intrusions
Authors: Rosenbaum Gideon , Barrett Alana , Rodrigues Raiza Toledo , Allen Charlotte M. , Weinberg Roberto F.
Published: January 2024

Folding of layered sequences is influenced by the presence of igneous intrusions, which form competent bodies that control fold distribution. Here, we show an example from the Broken River Province (northeastern Australia), where macroscopic folding affected sedimentary rocks and felsic intrusions, forming a dome-and-basin pattern. Field relations indicate synkinematic emplacement of the granitic intrusions, which occur as folded sill-like microgranitic bodies, mildly deformed stocks at structural domes, and undeformed granite that cuts across the folded sedimentary sequence. U-Pb zircon ages from the various intrusions yielded an age range of 335–320 Ma, thus constraining the timing of folding. The deformed zone is restricted to an ~30-km-wide corridor bounded by two crustal-scale shear zones. Kinematic indicators show that folding was generated by dextral transpression, giving rise to the dominant orientation of folds. Domes and basins are generally concentrated in the proximity of the granitic intrusions, indicating that their development was likely controlled by the synkinematic emplacement of these plutons. The volume of granite added to the exposed section could have altered the local strain regime, switching the horizontal stretching direction during transpression to a shortening direction. We therefore suggest that forced intrusion of synkinematic plutons into a confined transpressional zone (dominated by flattening strain) can create local constrictional strain where shortening occurs in two broadly orthogonal horizontal directions. The results demonstrate a link between Carboniferous granitic dome-and-basin patterns and syn-transpressional magmatism. It is plausible that similar processes were responsible for the development of granitic dome-and-basin patterns in Archean terranes.
Supplemental Material: Recognizing big mantle wedges in deep time: Constraints from the Western Mongolia Collage in Central Asia
Authors: Cui Xing , Zhao Guochun , al. et
Published: January 2024

Methods and data set; supplementary data on detrital zircon age, magmatic activity, and metamorphic deformation history of the Western Mongolia Collage; Figures S1–S4 and Tables S1–S7.  
Publishers’ and journals’ instructions to authors on use of generative artificial intelligence in academic and scientific publishing: bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ganjavi Conner , Eppler Michael B , Pekcan Asli , Biedermann Brett , Abreu Andre , Collins Gary S , Gill Inderbir S , Cacciamani Giovanni E
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To determine the extent and content of academic publishers’ and scientific journals’ guidance for authors on the use of generative artificial intelligence (GAI).

Design

Cross sectional, bibliometric study.

Setting

Websites of academic publishers and scientific journals, screened on 19-20 May 2023, with the search updated on 8-9 October 2023.

Participants

Top 100 largest academic publishers and top 100 highly ranked scientific journals, regardless of subject, language, or country of origin. Publishers were identified by the total number of journals in their portfolio, and journals were identified through the Scimago journal rank using the Hirsch index (H index) as an indicator of journal productivity and impact.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcomes were the content of GAI guidelines listed on the websites of the top 100 academic publishers and scientific journals, and the consistency of guidance between the publishers and their affiliated journals.

Results

Among the top 100 largest publishers, 24% provided guidance on the use of GAI, of which 15 (63%) were among the top 25 publishers. Among the top 100 highly ranked journals, 87% provided guidance on GAI. Of the publishers and journals with guidelines, the inclusion of GAI as an author was prohibited in 96% and 98%, respectively. Only one journal (1%) explicitly prohibited the use of GAI in the generation of a manuscript, and two (8%) publishers and 19 (22%) journals indicated that their guidelines exclusively applied to the writing process. When disclosing the use of GAI, 75% of publishers and 43% of journals included specific disclosure criteria. Where to disclose the use of GAI varied, including in the methods or acknowledgments, in the cover letter, or in a new section. Variability was also found in how to access GAI guidelines shared between journals and publishers. GAI guidelines in 12 journals directly conflicted with those developed by the publishers. The guidelines developed by top medical journals were broadly similar to those of academic journals.

Conclusions

Guidelines by some top publishers and journals on the use of GAI by authors are lacking. Among those that provided guidelines, the allowable uses of GAI and how it should be disclosed varied substantially, with this heterogeneity persisting in some instances among affiliated publishers and journals. Lack of standardization places a burden on authors and could limit the effectiveness of the regulations. As GAI continues to grow in popularity, standardized guidelines to protect the integrity of scientific output are needed.
Effect of vitamin B2, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E and folic acid in adults with essential hypertension: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Qi Shangwen , Luo Xu , Liu Shuangfang , Ling Bishi , Si Meilong , Jin Hua
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The objective of the current study is to compare the treatment effects of different vitamins on essential hypertension to provide an initial basis for developing evidence-based practices.

Design

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Data sources

Five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and ClinicalTrials.gov) were searched from their inception to 25 September 2023.

Outcomes

The primary outcomes were the difference between the intervention group and the control group in changes in office systolic blood pressure (SBP) and office diastolic blood pressure (DBP) from baseline. The secondary outcomes were the difference between the intervention group and the control group in changes in 24-hour mean ambulatory systolic blood pressure (24 hours SBP), 24-hour mean ambulatory diastolic blood pressure (24 hours DBP) and heart rate (HR) from baseline.

Results

A total of 23 studies comparing five vitamins (vitamin B2, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, folic acid) and involving 2218 participants were included. The included trials were all vitamin versus placebo, so the network was star-shaped. Among the five vitamins, only vitamin E was significantly more effective at reducing SBP (mean difference: −14.14 mm Hg, 95% credible intervals: −27.62 to –0.88) than placebo. In addition, no evidence was found that any of the five vitamins influenced DBP, 24 hours SBP, 24 hours DBP, or HR. The dose of vitamins, geographical region and percentage of males (only SBP) might be sources of heterogeneity. Sensitivity and subgroup analysis revealed that the effect of vitamin intervention on blood pressure varies according to different doses of vitamins.

Conclusions

According to the results, vitamin E might be an effective measure to reduce SBP, but more research is needed to validate this finding.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022352332.
HypoFocal SRT Trial: Ultra-hypofractionated focal salvage radiotherapy for isolated prostate bed recurrence after radical prostatectomy; single-arm phase II study; clinical trial protocol
Authors: Mathier Etienne , Althaus Alexander , Zwahlen Daniel , Lustenberger Jens , Zamboglou Constantinos , De Bari Berardino , Aebersold Daniel M , Guckenberger Matthias , Zilli Thomas , Shelan Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Despite radical prostatectomy (RP) and radiotherapy (RT) being established treatments for localised prostate cancer, a significant number of patients experience recurrent disease. While conventionally fractionated RT is still being used as a standard treatment in the postoperative setting, ultra-hypofractionated RT has emerged as a viable option with encouraging results in patients with localised disease in the primary setting. In addition, recent technological advancements in RT delivery and precise definition of isolated macroscopic recurrence within the prostate bed using prostate-specific membrane antigen-positron emission tomography (PSMA-PET) and multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) allow the exploration of ultra-hypofractionated schedules in the salvage setting using five fractions.

Methods and analysis

In this single-arm prospective phase II multicentre trial, 36 patients with node-negative prostate adenocarcinoma treated with RP at least 6 months before trial registration, tumour stage pT2a–3b, R0–1, pN0 or cN0 according to the UICC TNM 2009 and evidence of measurable local recurrence within the prostate bed detected by PSMA PET/CT and mpMRI within the last 3 months, will be included. The patients will undergo focal ultra-hypofractionated salvage RT with 34 Gy in five fractions every other day to the site of local recurrence in combination with 6 months of androgen deprivation therapy. The primary outcome of this study is biochemical relapse-free survival at 2 years. Secondary outcomes include acute side effects (until 90 days after the end of RT) of grade 3 or higher based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events V.5, progression-free survival, metastasis-free survival, late side effects and the quality of life (based on European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-C30, QLQ-PR25).

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received ethical approval from the Ethics Commission of the Canton of Bern (KEK-BE 2022-01026). Academic dissemination will occur through publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT05746806.
Clinical evaluation of the reference intervals for diabetes in Chinese geriatric population: a cross-sectional cohort study protocol
Authors: Zhou Chenglong , Li Jun , Wu Xiaochu , Qi Xinhao , Liu Fei
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is an important health issue that affects the ageing population. China has the largest geriatric population and the largest number of diabetes cases in the world. This poses a significant challenge for healthcare providers and policymakers. Haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), which is one of the diagnostic criteria for diabetes, is affected by many factors such as pregnancy, age, race and anaemia. Glycated albumin (GA) is not influenced by factors that affect HbA1c concentrations, although it has been used in the diagnosis of diabetes in a few people. The aim of this study protocol is to determine reference intervals (RIs) of HbA1c and GA for the diagnosis of older adults with diabetes in China and to assess the optimal cut-off values for these parameters from a health economic perspective.

Methods and analysis

This cross-sectional survey study will recruit 1278 community-dwelling older adults aged 60–89 in Chengdu City. The data collection process will involve a questionnaire survey, a comprehensive physical examination and the collection of blood samples for laboratory testing. Data analyses will be conducted on the pooled sample and stratified by gender, age or other demographic features if necessary. Rates will be compared using the χ2 test or Fisher test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves will be used to identify the most effective threshold values for HbA1c and GA for diagnosing diabetes among older adults in China.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the ethics review board of the Bioethics Subcommittee of West China Hospital, Sichuan University (Approval No. 1705 in 2022). The study’s results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300070831
We are complex beings: comparison of statistical methods to capture and account for intersectionality
Authors: Levandowski Brooke A , Pro George C , Rietberg-Miller Susan B , Camplain Ricky
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Intersectionality conceptualises how different parts of our identity compound, creating unique and multifaceted experiences of oppression. Our objective was to explore and compare several quantitative analytical approaches to measure interactions among four sociodemographic variables and interpret the relative impact of axes of marginalisation on self-reported health, to visualise the potential elevated impact of intersectionality on health outcomes.

Design

Secondary analysis of National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions-III, a nationally representative cross-sectional study of 36 309 non-institutionalised US citizens aged 18 years or older.

Primary outcome measures

We assessed the effect of interactions among race/ethnicity, disability status, sexual orientation and income level on a self-reported health outcome with three approaches: non-intersectional multivariate regression, intersectional multivariate regression with a single multicategorical predictor variable and intersectional multivariate regression with two-way interactions.

Results

Multivariate regression with a single multicategorical predictor variable allows for more flexibility in a logistic regression problem. In the fully fitted model, compared with individuals who were white, above the poverty level, had no disability and were heterosexual (referent), only those who were white, above the poverty level, had no disability and were gay/lesbian/bisexual/not sure (LGBQ+) demonstrated no significant difference in the odds of reporting excellent/very good health (aOR=0.90, 95% CI=0.71 to 1.13, p=0.36). Multivariate regression with two-way interactions modelled the extent that the relationship between each predictor and outcome depended on the value of a third predictor variable, allowing social position variation at several intersections. For example, compared with heterosexual individuals, LGBQ+ individuals had lower odds of reporting better health among whites (aOR=0.94, 95% CI=0.93 to 0.95) but higher odds of reporting better health among Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) individuals (aOR=1.13, 95% CI=1.11 to 1.15).

Conclusion

These quantitative approaches help us to understand compounding intersectional experiences within healthcare, to plan interventions and policies that address multiple needs simultaneously.
Effect of safety and security equipment on patient and visitor violence towards nurses in multiple public hospitals of China during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective, difference-in-difference analysis
Authors: Hu Yanzhen , Huang Ju , Zhao Dan , Zhang Cheng , Xia Jinghua , Lu Xue-mei
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to analyse whether safety and security equipment decreased patient and visitor violence (PVV) towards nurses in the COVID-19 period and quantify to what extent safety and security equipment affects PVV.

Design

Controlled before and after study and difference-in-difference (DID) analysis.

Setting

A large hospital medical group, consisting of three public tertiary teaching hospitals, namely, Xinjiekou Branch, Huilongguan Branch and Xinlongze Branch of Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, located in the west and north parts of Beijing, China.

Participants

A panel of nine departments recruited using two-step sampling method, administered online surveys in 2021 and 2022. A total of 632 eligible nurses participated in the survey in 2021 and 725 eligible nurses in 2022.

Measures

We assessed impacts of the safety and security equipment on the PVV. The policy had been enacted in June 2020, and the corresponding measures were established after mid-December 2020, and therefore, we use a DID design to evaluate changes in nurses’ PVV incidence. Departments are classified as either department installed or non installed, and nurses are classified based on their department.

Results

Within the treatment group, the incidence of physical PVV significantly decreased from 13.8% in 2020 to 2.0% in 2021. In the control group, the incidence of physical PVV increased from 0.6% in 2020 to 2.7% in 2021. The application of the safety and security equipment decreased the incidence of physical PVV by 13.93% (95% CI: −23.52% to −4.34%). In contrast, no difference was observed between the treatment and control groups for the incidence of psychological PVV (6.23%, 95% CI: −11.56% to 24.02%) and overall PVV (0.88, 95% CI: −20.90% to 22.66%).

Conclusion

The safety and security equipment reduced the incidence of physical PVV towards nurses. For hospital managers in public hospitals, longer-term strategies roadmap for PVV prevention measures are needed to create a more supportive work environment in employees.
Balancing between being the most valuable player (MVP) and passing the ball: a qualitative study of support when living with chronic pain in Sweden
Authors: Lilja Veronica , Wallström Sara , Saarijärvi Markus , Lundberg Mari , Segertoft Vivi-Anne , Ekman Inger
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the meaning of lived experiences of support from social networks and the healthcare sector in persons with chronic pain.

Design

A qualitative, phenomenological hermeneutic method was used to analyse interview data.

Setting

Participants were recruited from patient organisations in Sweden.

Participants

Ten (seven women, two men and one non-binary) individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain were included.

Findings

The meaning of lived experiences of support in persons with chronic pain involves balancing between being the most valuable player (MVP) and passing the ball, meaning balancing between being a capable person and accepting support to be that capable person.

Conclusion

For participants who lived with chronic pain, support means balancing between being capable (the MVP) and willing to accept support (passing the ball), which aligns with the concept of person-centred care. Our findings may be useful for policy-makers, managers and clinical professionals when planning and performing care for persons with chronic pain. Future research should focus on how the healthcare sector can create support to enable persons with chronic pain to be the MVP while being able to pass the ball to their social networks and the healthcare sector.
Maternal responsibility and omission of complexity: an exploration of the portrayal of gestational diabetes mellitus in Danish written media
Authors: Eskildsen Fiona Ryom , Davidsen Emma , Sørensen Jane Brandt , Kragelund Nielsen Karoline
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has implications for the future health of both mother and offspring, and there is a risk that mothers are held responsible and blamed for their own and their offspring’s long-term health. The media plays a significant role in shaping public perceptions of health. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate how GDM and women with GDM are portrayed in Danish written media.

Design

We identified written newspaper articles reporting on GDM from 2018 to 2019 and analysed them using thematic network analysis and elements from critical discourse analysis.

Results

In total, 130 articles were included in the analysis. Four themes emerged: (1) ways of introducing GDM, (2) descriptions of causes and prevention of GDM, (3) descriptions of consequences of GDM and (4) value-laden descriptions of GDM. GDM was often mentioned in relation to other conditions or factors and with lack of differentiation. Maternal responsibility was emphasised via oversimplified descriptions of causal relations, descriptions of individual agency and no emphasis on structural causes and preventive measures. GDM was positioned as resulting in ‘bad pregnancies’ using value-laden wordings.

Conclusion

We identified various aspects of how GDM is portrayed in written media. The findings signal the importance of clear, nuanced and respectful communication on GDM, including conveying the complexity of the condition and the role of structural factors.
Home-based management of hypoxaemic COVID-19 patients: design of the Therapy@Home pilot study
Authors: Boeijen Josi A , van de Pol Alma C , van Uum Rick T , Venekamp Roderick P , Smit Karin , Kaasjager Karin A H , van den Broek Robert , Bijsterbosch Wilma , Schoonhoven Lisette , Rutten Frans H , Zwart Dorien L M
Published: January 2024

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital capacity was strained. Home-based care could relieve the hospital care system and improve patient well-being if safely organised.

We designed an intervention embedded in a regional collaborative healthcare network for the home-based management of acutely ill COVID-19 patients requiring oxygen treatment. Here, we describe the design and pilot protocol for the evaluation of the feasibility of this complex intervention.

Methods and analysis

Following a participatory action research approach, the intervention was designed in four consecutive steps: (1) literature review and establishment of an expert panel; (2) concept design of essential intervention building blocks (acute medical care, acute nursing care, remote monitoring, equipment and technology, organisation and logistics); (3) safety assessments (prospective risk analysis and a simulation patient evaluation) and (4) description of the design of the pilot (feasibility) study aimed at including approximately 15–30 patients, sufficient for fine-tuning for a large-scale randomised intervention.

Ethics and dissemination

All patients will provide written, informed consent. The study was approved by the Medical Ethics Review Committee of the University Medical Center Utrecht, the Netherlands (protocol NL77421.041.21). The preparatory steps (1–4) needed to perform the pilot are executed and described in this paper. The findings of the pilot will be published in academic journals. If we consider the complex intervention feasible, we aim to continue with a large-scale randomised controlled study evaluating the clinical effectiveness, safety and implementation of the complex intervention.
Swiss cohort on Traumatic Childbirth and Health (SwiTCH): protocol for a prospective, population-based cohort study on parents’ mental health from pregnancy to one year postpartum
Authors: Chanvrier Hélène , Rattaz Valentine , Offredi Valentin , Dupuis Marc , Horsch Antje
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Approximately 4%–5% of mothers develop childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder (CB-PTSD) and approximately 12.3% of mothers develop some CB-PTSD symptoms (CB-PTSS). To date, there is a dearth of studies on fathers and other coparents. Parental CB-PTSD and CB-PTSS may have a negative impact not only on the parents but also on the infant. Understanding risk and protective factors of CB-PTSD for both parents and its consequences on the family is key to detecting or anticipating it, to developing interventions aimed at reducing its detrimental effects and to supporting parents.

Methods and analysis

This study protocol describes an observational, population-based study, consisting of a longitudinal prospective cohort with online surveys at four time points. The population of interest consist of women, in the third trimester of pregnancy or at 6–12 weeks postpartum, and their partner/coparent, who will give birth or gave birth in the French-speaking part of Switzerland. The target sample size is 300–500 women and a proportional number of partners. The primary outcome of this study is the prevalence of CB-PTSD and CB-PTSS. The secondary outcomes focus on: (1) the impact of CB-PTSD and CB-PTSS on the marital and coparental relationships, the bonding with the infant, parental burnout and healthcare seeking behaviours, (2) the role of the childbirth experience in the development of CB-PTSD and CB-PTSS and (3) the social and economic determinants of CB-PTSD and CB-PTSS.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by the human research ethics committee of the Canton de Vaud (study number 2022-00284). All study participants signed an informed consent form. Dissemination of results will occur via national and international conferences, in peer-reviewed journals, public conferences and social media.

Trial registration number

NCT05865704.