bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is more better? A multilevel analysis of percutaneous coronary intervention hospital openings and closures on patient volumes
Authors: Hsia Renee Y. , Redberg Rita F. , Shen Yu‐Chu
Published: May 2024

Background

It is unknown how changes in the percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) “built environment” have impacted PCI volumes at the community, hospital, and patient levels. This study sought to determine how PCI hospital openings and closures effect community‐ and hospital‐level PCI volumes as well as the likelihood of receiving PCI at a low‐volume hospital.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 3,966,025 Medicare Fee‐For‐Service patients in 37,451 zip codes and 2564 U.S. hospitals who underwent PCI from 2006 to 2017. We conducted community‐, hospital‐, and patient‐level analyses using ordinary least squares regressions with fixed effects to determine changes in PCI volumes after PCI hospital openings or closures.

Results

Between 2006 and 2017, a total of 17% and 7% of patients lived in communities that experienced PCI hospital openings and closures, respectively. Openings were associated with a 10% increase in community PCI volume, a 2% increase in the share of elective PCI, and a doubling in the likelihood of receiving PCI at a low‐volume hospital. In communities with low baseline PCI capacity, openings were associated with a 12% increase in community PCI volume, and in high‐capacity communities, an 8% increase. PCI closures were associated with a 9% decrease in community PCI volume in high‐capacity communities but no measurable change in low‐capacity communities.

Conclusions

PCI service expansion is associated with increased PCI at low‐volume hospitals and a greater number of elective procedures. Increased governmental oversight may be necessary to ensure that openings and closures of these specialized services yield the desired benefits.
Spraying for the beauty: Pesticide use for visual appearance in apple production
Authors: Zachmann Lucca , McCallum Chloe , Finger Robert
Published: May 2024

Pesticides are used to reduce yield losses and to enhance the visual quality of products. However, pesticide use raises concerns due to negative health and environmental effects, hence ambitious policy goals for their reduction have been established. Reducing pesticides which mainly focus on visual quality of products could be an efficient strategy to contribute to these goals, without reducing food production. However, the role of “cosmetic” pesticide use is so far not well documented and understood. Here, we quantify cosmetic pesticide use and the influence of supply chain characteristics on their use. We focus on table apple production, where the visual quality of products is a key aspect. Using a sample of 196 apple growers in Switzerland, we find that 23.5%–59.2% of growers use cosmetic pesticides for the apples’ visual appearance. Farms mainly marketing via intermediaries are 23.9‐29.6% more likely to spray cosmetic pesticides for visual purposes compared to farms mainly direct marketing. Our findings highlight the role of supply chains in farmer decision‐making, recommending a decrease in the focus on visual product quality, especially in retail environments, thus minimizing unnecessary and irreversible risks of pesticide exposure by farmers without compromising food security.
The mutated cytoplasmic fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1)‐interacting protein 2 (CYFIP2 S968F) regulates cocaine‐induced reward behaviour and plasticity in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Kim Young‐Jung , Kim Kyungin , Lee Youyoung , Min Hee‐Won , Ko Yong‐Hyun , Lee Bo‐Ram , Hur Kwang‐Hyun , Kim Seon‐Kyung , Lee Seok‐Yong , Jang Choon‐Gon
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

Cytoplasmic fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1)‐interacting protein 2 (CYFIP2), as a component of the Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein family verprolin‐homologous protein (WAVE) regulatory complex, is involved in actin polymerization, contributing to neuronal development and structural plasticity. Mutating serine‐968 to phenylalanine (S968F) in CYFIP2 causes an altered cocaine response in mice. The neuronal mechanisms underlying this response remain unknown.

Experimental Approach

We performed cocaine reward‐related behavioural tests and examined changes in synaptic protein phenotypes and neuronal morphology in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), using CYFIP2 S968F knock‐in mice to investigate the role of CYFIP2 in regulating cocaine reward.

Key Results

CYFIP2 S968F mutation attenuated cocaine‐induced behavioural sensitization and conditioned place preference. Cocaine‐induced c‐Fos was not observed in the NAc of CYFIP2 S968F knock‐in mice. However, c‐Fos induction was still evident in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). CYFIP2 S968F mutation altered cocaine‐associated CYFIP2 signalling, glutamatergic protein expression and synaptic density in the NAc following cocaine exposure. To further determine the role of CYFIP2 in NAc neuronal activity and the mPFC projecting to the NAc activity‐mediating reward response, we used optogenetic tools to stimulate the NAc or mPFC‐NAc pathway and observed that optogenetic activation of the NAc or mPFC‐NAc pathway induced reward‐related behaviours. This effect was not observed in the S968F mutation in CYFIP2.

Conclusion and Implications

These results suggest that CYFIP2 plays a role in controlling cocaine‐mediated neuronal function and structural plasticity in the NAc, and that CYFIP2 could serve as a target for regulating cocaine reward.
The role of psychological distress in the relationship of financial strain with oral health and dental attendance in Dutch adults: A mediation analysis based on cross‐sectional data
Authors: Su Naichuan , Duijster Denise , van der Heijden Geert J. M. G. , Groeniger Joost Oude , Beenackers Mariëlle A.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to assess whether psychological distress mediates the association between financial strain and oral health and dental attendance in the Dutch adult population.

Methods

The study followed a cross‐sectional design based on 2812 participants from the 2014 wave of the Dutch population‐based GLOBE study. Financial strain was considered the exposure, while psychological distress measured with the Mental Health Inventory‐5 (MHI‐5) was the mediator. The outcomes included self‐reported number of teeth, self‐rated oral health, and self‐reported dental attendance. Generalized regression analyses were used for the mediation analysis adjusted for several covariables.

Results

Greater financial strain was significantly associated with poorer self‐rated oral health (total effect: 0.09, 95%CI: 0.05; 0.14) and restorative or no dental attendance (i.e. participants never visiting a dentist or only visiting a dentist for regular treatments or when they have complaints with their mouth, teeth, or prosthesis) (total effect: 0.05, 95%CI: 0.02; 0.09). Greater financial strain was not significantly associated with self‐reported number of teeth (total effect: −0.14, 95%CI: −0.91; 0.64). Psychological distress significantly mediated the association of financial strain with self‐rated oral health (average causal mediation effect [ACME]: 0.02, 95%CI: 0.01; 0.03) and self‐reported dental attendance (ACME: 0.01, 95%CI: 0.00; 0.02), respectively. However, it did not significantly mediate the association of financial strain with self‐reported number of teeth (ACME: −0.11, 95%CI: −0.25; 0.02). The estimated proportion of the total effect of financial strain on self‐rated oral health and self‐reported dental attendance that could be explained by psychological distress was respectively 24% (95%CI: 14%; 48%) and 19% (95%CI: 6%; 62%).

Conclusions

Psychological distress partly explains the association of financial strain with self‐rated oral health and dental attendance, but not with self‐reported number of teeth. Future studies using longitudinal data are necessary to confirm the results.
Current status of endoscopic ultrasound‐guided antitumor treatment for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Kato Hironari , Tsutsumi Koichiro , Otsuka Motoyuki
Published: May 2024

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) was developed in the 1990s and has significantly transformed pancreatic tumor diagnosis. Subsequently, EUS has rapidly shifted from being a purely diagnostic procedure to being used in a wide range of interventional procedures. Recently, new therapeutic techniques, such as EUS‐guided fine needle injection (EUS‐FNI) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA), have been developed to deliver various antitumor agents. Despite technological advancements, pancreatic cancer (PC) has a poor prognosis and improvements in treatment outcomes are urgently required. One of the reasons for the limited response to antitumor agents in PC is the abundant desmoplasia and hypovascular nature of the tumor, complicating drug delivery into the tumor. Thus, changing the tumor microenvironment may be important to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy, and direct injection of antitumor agents into the tumor under EUS guidance can help overcome treatment challenges in PC. Treatment approaches using the EUS‐FNI or RFA technique are expected to further improve the prognosis of PC. Therefore, this study reviewed the existing literature on EUS‐guided antitumor therapy, specifically highlighting its application in PC to address the current challenges and to identify potential advancements in the field.
Effects of gut microbiome on type 1 diabetes susceptibility and complications: A large‐scale bidirectional Mendelian randomization and external validation study
Authors: Guo Keyu , Ye Jianan , Li Jiaqi , Huang Juan , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: May 2024

Aim

To assess and verify the effect of the gut microbiome on the susceptibility and complications of type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Materials and Methods

To achieve this aim, a two‐sample and reverse Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted. In addition, an external validation study was performed using individual microbiome data of patients with T1D from the gutMEGA datasets and the National Clinical Research Center for Metabolic Diseases. The circulating metabolites facilitated two‐sample MR analysis, mediation and multivariable MR analysis to evaluate the direct relationship between the gut microbiome and T1D complications.

Results

The MR analysis results from the discovery and validation phases confirmed that Veillonellaceae can potentially reduce the susceptibility of T1D. In the gutMEGA dataset, the average relative abundance of Veillonellaceae in patients with T1D was 0.66%, compared with 1.09% in the controls. Furthermore, the external validation, which included 60 patients with T1D and 30 matched healthy controls, found that the median relative abundance of Veillonellaceae was also lower than controls at 1.10% (95% CI 0.50%‐1.80%). Specifically, the Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group, known for its ability to regulate cholesterol, was significantly associated with a lower risk of developing renal, neurological and ophthalmic complications in T1D. Moreover, high cholesterol in small high‐density lipoprotein and cholesteryl esters in high‐density lipoprotein were associated with a reduced risk of T1D renal and ophthalmic complications. The mediation and multivariable MR analysis combining cholesterol indicated that the E. coprostanoligenes group is the most dominant factor influencing T1D complications.

Conclusions

Our findings supported the potential causal effect of gut microbiota on the susceptibility and complications of T1D.
Guillain‐Barré syndrome: History, pathogenesis, treatment, and future directions
Authors: Hughes Richard A. C.
Published: May 2024

Background and purpose

Since its description by Guillain, Barré, and Strohl in 1916, Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) has attracted a large literature. The author reviews the history of research into its pathogenesis and treatment to highlight promising avenues for future research.

Methods

This is a nonsystematic personal review.

Results

Since the early 1900s, the clinical picture of GBS has been illustrated in multiple series culminating in the ongoing International Guillain–Barré Syndrome study of 2000 patients. In the 1950s and 1960s, the inflammatory nature of the commonest form, acute inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), was described. In the 1990s, two axonal forms, acute motor–sensory axonal neuropathy and acute motor axonal neuropathy, were recognized. In the 1990s and early 2000s, these forms were shown to be due to antibodies against Campylobacter jejuni glycans cross‐reacting with glycolipids on axonal membranes. The pathogenesis of AIDP remains unknown, but T‐cell responses to the compact myelin proteins, P2 and P0, which cause experimental autoimmune neuritis, suggest that T cells are important. Randomized controlled trials in the 1970s and 1980s showed no benefit from corticosteroids. Trials in the 1980s showed benefit from plasma exchange and in the 1990s from intravenous immunoglobulin.

Conclusions

Future research should seek biomarkers to identify subgroups with different treatment responses, define the true natural history of the disease with population‐based epidemiological studies, study the pathology in autopsies early in the disease, seek causative antibodies and confirm autoimmune T‐cell responses in AIDP, and expand treatment trials to include anti‐T‐cell agents.
FADD gene pathogenic variants causing recurrent febrile infection‐related epilepsy syndrome: Case report and literature review
Authors: Giovannini Giada , Giannoccaro Maria Pia , Cioclu Maria Cristina , Orlandi Niccolò , Liguori Rocco , Meletti Stefano
Published: May 2024

FIRES and NORSE are clinical presentations of disease processes that, to date, remain unexplained without an established etiology in many cases. Neuroinflammation is thought to have paramount importance in the genesis of these conditions. We hereby report the clinical, EEG, brain MRI, and genetic findings of a nuclear family with recurrent febrile‐related encephalopathy with refractory de novo Status Epilepticus. Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) revealed a homozygous p.C105W pathogenic variant of FADD gene (FAS‐associated protein with death domain, FADD), known to cause ultrarare forms of autosomal recessive immunodeficiency that could be associated with variable degrees of lymphoproliferation, cerebral atrophy, and cardiac abnormalities. The FADD‐related conditions disrupt FAS‐mediated apoptosis and can cause a clinical picture with the characteristics of FIRES. This observation is important because, on one hand, it increases the number of reported patients with FADD deficiency, showing that this disorder may present variable expressivity, and on the other hand, it demonstrates a genetic cause of FIRES involving a cell‐mediated inflammation regulatory pathway. This finding supports early treatment with immunomodulatory therapy and could represent a new avenue of research in the field of new onset refractory status epilepticus and related conditions.
Parenting beliefs and practices as precursors to academic outcomes in Chinese children
Authors: Ren Lixin , Chen Mengdi , Hu Bi Ying , Sun Jin
Published: May 2024

Due to the rapid sociocultural changes in China, Chinese parents' childrearing beliefs and practices have undergone dramatic transformations. Against this context, this study examined whether Chinese parents' endorsement of progressive and traditional childrearing beliefs would predict children's academic achievement, as well as whether parenting practices would mediate this association. This study utilized a longitudinal design and followed 206 Chinese families for 2 years from the end of preschool to Grade 2. Parents showed greater endorsement of progressive than traditional childrearing beliefs, as well as higher use of authoritative than authoritarian parenting practices. Parents' childrearing beliefs in preschool predicted children's math achievement in Grade 2 via authoritative parenting. However, parenting beliefs were unrelated to authoritarian parenting, and authoritarian parenting did not predict any of the child academic outcomes in Grade 2. The findings suggest Chinese parents' orientations toward progressive parenting beliefs and authoritative parenting practices. They also highlight the utility of parenting beliefs in explaining disparities in early academic achievement. The nonsignificant findings pertinent to authoritarian parenting call for re‐examination of the cultural meaning and effects of authoritarian parenting in Chinese society.
Do more egalitarian men experience less union dissolution? A couple‐level analysis
Authors: Raz‐Yurovich Liat , Okun Barbara S. , Ben‐Avi Matanel
Published: May 2024

Objective

We consider whether heterosexual unions in which male partners are more gender egalitarian experience less union dissolution.

Background

Gender revolution theory argues that as men become more egalitarian in their attitudes and behaviors, female partners experience reduced work–family conflict, and couples enjoy more stable partnerships. In contrast, the “flip side” perspective argues that consequences of men's increased egalitarian behavior for their own experience of role incompatibility may counterbalance effects on union stability.

Method

Analyzing a sample of roughly 46,600 women‐years from the British Household Panel Survey and Understanding Society (1993–2019), we estimate random‐intercept and fixed‐effects models of union dissolution. Explanatory variables include, for each partner, measures of egalitarianism in gender role attitudes and weekly housework hours.

Results

Odds of union dissolution are not associated with men's absolute level of egalitarian attitudes, but they are higher when men's attitudes are less egalitarian than their partner's. Neither the absolute number of men's housework hours, nor their share of total housework, is associated with the odds of dissolution.

Conclusions

Our findings are not generally supportive of gender revolution theory. Counterbalancing effects may provide an explanation for the findings, as per the flip side approach.

Implications

Taking a couple‐level perspective advances understanding of the associations between gender egalitarianism and union dissolution.
The impact of social distancing on trading activity during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Sabah Nasim
Published: May 2024

I explore the impact of social distancing on trading activity during the COVID‐19 pandemic using real‐time location tracking data from Facebook users. I find that stocks categorized as “harder‐to‐value,” which are typically smaller, less transparent, less visible, and less profitable, experience decreased abnormal trading with more social distancing in their headquarters counties. In contrast, “easier‐to‐value” stocks show an increase in abnormal trading due to high social distancing in their headquarters counties. These findings indicate that greater firm‐specific information asymmetry arises from increased social distancing within the firm headquarters counties. Although “easier‐to‐value” stocks can use alternative information sources to mitigate the information asymmetry, “harder‐to‐value” stocks fail to do so and face negative impact on trading. Additional analyses using alternative information channels, market sidedness, and liquidity confirm this hypothesis.
Controls and relationships of soil organic carbon abundance and persistence vary across pedo‐climatic regions
Authors: von Fromm Sophie F. , Hoyt Alison M. , Sierra Carlos A. , Georgiou Katerina , Doetterl Sebastian , Trumbore Susan E.
Published: May 2024

One of the largest uncertainties in the terrestrial carbon cycle is the timing and magnitude of soil organic carbon (SOC) response to climate and vegetation change. This uncertainty prevents models from adequately capturing SOC dynamics and challenges the assessment of management and climate change effects on soils. Reducing these uncertainties requires simultaneous investigation of factors controlling the amount (SOC abundance) and duration (SOC persistence) of stored C. We present a global synthesis of SOC and radiocarbon profiles (nProfile = 597) to assess the timescales of SOC storage. We use a combination of statistical and depth‐resolved compartment models to explore key factors controlling the relationships between SOC abundance and persistence across pedo‐climatic regions and with soil depth. This allows us to better understand (i) how SOC abundance and persistence covary across pedo‐climatic regions and (ii) how the depth dependence of SOC dynamics relates to climatic and mineralogical controls on SOC abundance and persistence. We show that SOC abundance and persistence are differently related; the controls on these relationships differ substantially between major pedo‐climatic regions and soil depth. For example, large amounts of persistent SOC can reflect climatic constraints on soils (e.g., in tundra/polar regions) or mineral absorption, reflected in slower decomposition and vertical transport rates. In contrast, lower SOC abundance can be found with lower SOC persistence (e.g., in highly weathered tropical soils) or higher SOC persistence (e.g., in drier and less productive regions). We relate variable patterns of SOC abundance and persistence to differences in the processes constraining plant C input, microbial decomposition, vertical C transport and mineral SOC stabilization potential. This process‐oriented grouping of SOC abundance and persistence provides a valuable benchmark for global C models, highlighting that pedo‐climatic boundary conditions are crucial for predicting the effects of climate change and soil management on future C abundance and persistence.
RETRACTED: Influence of preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy duration on perioperative complications in patients treated with epididymectomy for epididymal tuberculosis
Authors: Liu Pengju , Sun Jiazhu , Wang Yeqiang , Qin Yong , Liu Ben
Published: May 2024

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the influence of preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy duration on perioperative epididymectomy complications in patients with epididymal tuberculosis (ETB).

Methods

This retrospective study examined patients with ETB between January 1, 2013, and March 31, 2023, who underwent unilateral epididymectomy at our hospital. We selected preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy duration of 2, 4, and 8 weeks as the cutoffs for this study, to explore whether there are differences in the incidence of intraoperative and 30‐day postoperative complications among the patients with different preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy durations. Intraoperative complications were graded according to the Satava classification, and 30‐day postoperative complications were defined according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. The study groups were compared using the unpaired t‐test, Wilcoxon rank‐sum test, Pearson's chi‐square test, or Fisher's exact test, as appropriate.

Results

Overall, 155 patients were included. Statistical analysis revealed that there were no significant differences in the incidence of intraoperative and 30‐day postoperative complications between patients with shorter preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy duration and those with longer preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy duration.

Conclusions

In patients with ETB, preoperative antituberculosis chemotherapy duration did not significantly affect the incidence of perioperative complications after epididymectomy.
Paxbp1 is indispensable for the maintenance of peripheral CD4 T cell homeostasis
Authors: Li Wenting , Yang Yang , Zhuo Fan , Liu Shenglin , Zhang Kaoyuan , Zhang Wei , Huang Cong , Yu Bo
Published: May 2024

The size and condition of the peripheral CD4 T cell population determine the capacity of the immune response. Under homeostatic conditions, the size of the peripheral CD4 T cell population is maintained through turnover and survival. However, the underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood. Here, we observed a significant decrease in the percentage of CD4 T cells in the periphery following the targeted deletion of the Paxbp1 gene in mouse T cells. In the absence of Paxbp1, naïve CD4 T cells displayed reduced surface interleukin‐7 receptor levels and a decreased capacity to respond to survival signals mediated by interleukin‐7. In addition, naïve CD4 T cells deficient in Paxbp1 demonstrated impaired T cell antigen receptor signalling, compromised cell cycle entry, decreased proliferation, and increased apoptosis following stimulation, all of which contributed to the reduction in the number of peripheral CD4 T cells. Therefore, our study highlights the indispensable role of Paxbp1 in maintaining peripheral CD4 T cell homeostasis.
A probabilistic bi‐objective model for a humanitarian location‐routing problem under uncertain demand and road closure
Authors: Temiz Sedanur , Kazanç Hande Cansın , Soysal Mehmet , Çimen Mustafa
Published: May 2024

Effective planning and execution of humanitarian aid logistics activities ensure that disaster‐related losses are minimized. This study addresses a tactical‐level pre‐disaster humanitarian logistics problem where a decision‐maker decides on cross‐dock locations by taking potential vehicle routes into account. A decision support model is proposed for the location selection and distribution operations in humanitarian logistics with explicit fuel consumption estimation. In the addressed problem, the demand amount of each node depends on probabilistic disaster scenarios. Probabilities of whether each arc/road is open or closed and heterogeneous vehicle fleet in terms of vehicle sizes are also respected. The model is formulated as probabilistic bi‐objective mixed integer linear programming, whose objectives are minimization of the total cost (i.e., fuel cost, vehicle fixed cost, and fixed opening cost) and total travel time. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed decision support model is unique in terms of the features considered simultaneously. The applicability of the model is demonstrated by the case study and subsequent numerical analyses of a possible earthquake in the Kartal district of Istanbul. The proposed model is shown to have the potential to support decision‐makers in preparation for a disaster. A solution approach based on a clustering algorithm has been also proposed to solve larger instances of the problem. The effectiveness of this heuristic has been demonstrated through its application to larger‐scale problems.
Initial damage behavior of Al2O3‐modified SiCf/SiC–B4C composites after oxidation under wet atmosphere at 1200°C
Authors: Shan Qingliang , Tian Xiangkun , Xue Yudong , Hu Jianbao , You Xiao , Wu Bin , Qian Junjie , Wang Zhen
Published: May 2024

Al2O3 was incorporated into SiCf/SiC–B4C composites to improve their mechanical properties after oxidation. The results showed that Al2O3 reduced the weight gain of these composites, and the oxidized layer became smooth and dense. The fibers pull‐out lengths of the Al2O3‐modified composites were longer than that of virgin composites oxidized for the same amount of time. Compared with the virgin composites, the tensile strength retention rate of Al2O3‐modified composites was improved by 7.3% and 8.4% after oxidation times of 50 and 100 h, respectively. But Al2O3 modification led to 20.6% and 44.3% improvements in σonset (acoustic emission, AE onset stress) as well as 76.5% and 95.5% the improvements in σmin (first AE stress), respectively. Further investigation indicated that a higher proportion of high‐energy level events occurred in the Al2O3‐modified composites when the load just reached the damage thresholds stress compared with the virgin composites.
Unravelling the complexity of research capacity strengthening for health professionals in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A concept analysis
Authors: Buser Julie M. , Capellari Emily , Wondafrash Mekitie , Gray Rachel , Morris Kirby L. , Jacobson‐Davies Faelan E. , Ntasumbumuyange Diomede , Kumakech Edward , Smith Yolanda R.
Published: May 2024

Aims

Research capacity strengthening (RCS) is crucial in enhancing healthcare outcomes, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), which face challenges due to limited resources, unequal access to care and the need for evidence‐based decision‐making. We seek to move beyond a surface‐level understanding of RCS, unearthing the core attributes, the factors that precede its implementation and the transformative outcomes it generates within the LMIC healthcare landscape.

Design

This study employs the Walker and Avant approach to concept analysis to comprehensively explore the dimensions and attributes of RCS as it pertains to allied and public health professionals in LMICs, propose empirical referents and suggest an operational definition.

Data Sources

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to 27 July 2023, to identify studies on RCS in LMICs. The Walker and Avant approach to concept analysis was selected because it provides a framework for systematically examining and clarifying the meaning and implications of RCS. This method involves a structured process of defining RCS, identifying its attributes, antecedents, consequences and cases, and ultimately providing a clear understanding of its meaning and implications. Identifying empirical referents offers measurable indicators that researchers and policymakers can use to assess the effectiveness of RCS initiatives in LMICs.

Conclusion

RCS for health professionals in LMICs involves a sustainable process that equips them with essential research skills, fostering the ability to conduct high‐quality research and improve healthcare delivery in resource‐constrained settings.

Implications

RCS aims to empower health professionals to apply evidence‐based practices, reduce disparities and enhance the well‐being of populations in LMICs.

Impact

Ultimately, a concept analysis of RCS empowers us to harness the full potential of research to enhance healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes and advance the well‐being of populations worldwide.
Trajectory patterns and influencing factors of supportive care needs in stroke patients: A longitudinal study
Authors: Xi Yushan , Liu Ranran , Tang Yingmei , Peng Ying , Jin Guoliang , Song Jingyuan
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate the trajectory patterns and influencing factors of supportive care needs in stroke patients.

Design

A longitudinal study.

Methods

In total, 207 stroke patients who received treatment at the Department of Neurology in a hospital in Xuzhou between July 2022 and July 2023 were recruited using convenience sampling. Questionnaires including supportive care needs, hospital anxiety and depression scale, and the Barthel index were investigated at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months. A latent class growth model was applied to identify the supportive care needs trajectories. Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the predictors for membership. This study adheres to STROBE reporting guidelines.

Results

Three patterns of supportive care needs trajectories were identified: A high needs slow decline group (20.8%), a medium needs stable group (56.5%) and a medium needs rapid decline group (22.7%). Based on further analysis, the findings indicated that age, education level, monthly income, comorbidity, activities of daily living, anxiety and depression were associated with the trajectory categories of supportive care needs with stroke patients.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates heterogeneity in changes in supportive care needs among stroke patients. Healthcare providers need to consider these different categories of needs and develop individualized care measures based on the characteristics of different patients.

Impact

Healthcare providers should be aware of the fluctuations in care needs of stroke patients at various stages. Additionally, the study aimed to identify patients' specific needs based on their circumstances, monitor the rehabilitation process and establish a more personalized and optimized care plan through multidisciplinary collaboration. The ultimate goal was to alleviate symptomatic distress and address the long‐term care needs of patients.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Development and psychometric properties of the Turkish version of the Orofacial Esthetic Scale
Authors: Karaokutan Isil , Senol Hande , Aksoy Duygu , Ayvaz Ilayda , Cifci Huriye
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to develop the Turkish version of the Orofacial Esthetic Scale (OES‐Tr) and to evaluate its psychometric properties.

Materials and Methods

The OES‐Tr questionnaire was obtained from the English version of OES by translation and back‐translation. The current version's psychometric properties were evaluated in a cohort of 221 participants (81 dental students, 70 dentists with 1–10 years of clinical experience, and 70 dentists with 11–20 years of clinical experience). To assess the test–retest reliability, the OES was administered twice to all participants, with a time interval of 2–4 weeks. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were assessed. Also, in validity studies, OES total scores were correlated with Oral Health Impact Profile‐Turkish Version (OHIP‐Tr) total scores.

Results

The Cronbach's alpha value obtained from seven items was 0.866 in the examination performed on all individuals. Reliability results show that all questionnaire items are consistent within the test. Bartlett's test of sphericity was statistically significant (p < 0.05) and Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin test was 0.794. The results of the exploratory factor analysis indicated the creation of a single‐factor structure. The examinations conducted on all participants revealed a statistically significant weak negative correlation between OES and OHIP scores (r = −0.144).

Conclusions

OES‐Tr can be utilized as a reliable tool to evaluate an individual's perception of their orofacial appearance. With its excellent psychometric properties, it serves as a valuable instrument for assessing self‐perceived orofacial esthetics.

Clinical Significance

OES‐Tr is a valuable instrument for assessing the appearance of the orofacial region, with good psychometric properties.
Using health values to inform collaborative goal‐setting for chronic care of older adults
Authors: Shanahan Mackenzie L. , Naik Aanand D.
Published: May 2024

This editorial comments on the article by Shwayder et al.
Volume‐based enteral feeding for ward patients with acute neurological conditions: a pilot prospective cohort study
Authors: Varghese Jessie A. , Keegan Simone , Nicholson Christine , Drummond Katharine J. , Kaul Neha , Fetterplace Kate
Published: May 2024

Background

Patients requiring enteral nutrition (EN) after neurological insults experience feeding interruptions, contributing to inadequate nutrition delivery. This prospective cohort study investigated if volume‐based enteral feeding (VBF) improved the delivery of prescribed EN volume in ward patients with acute neurological conditions.

Methods

Over two sequential periods, the usual care group received standard continuous rate‐based feeding, and the intervention group received VBF with bi‐daily EN rate adjustments to achieve target daily volume. The primary outcome was percentage of prescribed daily EN formula volume delivered. Differences in energy and protein provision, weight, malnutrition and safety were explored. An evaluation survey captured nurse acceptability of the protocol.

Results

The intervention group (n = 32) achieved greater median interquartile range (IQR) EN adequacy of prescribed volume at 92% (88–97) compared to 67% (54–78) for usual care (n = 35) (p < 0.001). VBF compared to rate‐based feeding resulted in patients receiving more kilojoules (131 [121–138] kJ/kg vs. 84 [64–99] kJ/kg; p < 0.001) and protein (1.3 [1.2–1.5] g/kg vs. 0.9 [0.6–1.1] g/kg; p < 0.001). There were no differences in gastrointestinal intolerance between groups. Compliance to the VBF protocol was 90%, and 78% of staff reported high confidence using the protocol. The intervention group had less median weight loss at discharge (−1.4 [0.1 to −4.3] kg) than usual care (−3.6 [−1.3 to 8.4] kg; p < 0.011), but no differences in malnutrition status were observed.

Conclusion

A VBF protocol delivered greater EN volume, energy and protein following neurological injury. The VBF protocol was feasible with high acceptability from nursing staff.
Ca2+‐independent ZmCPK2 is inhibited by Ca2+‐dependent ZmCPK17 during drought response in maize
Authors: Hu Xiaoying , Cheng Jinkui , Lu Minmin , Fang Tingting , Zhu Yujuan , Li Zhen , Wang Xiqing , Wang Yu , Guo Yan , Yang Shuhua , Gong Zhizhong
Published: May 2024

Calcium oscillations are induced by different stresses. Calcium‐dependent protein kinases (CDPKs/CPKs) are one major group of the plant calcium decoders that are involved in various processes including drought response. Some CPKs are calcium‐independent. Here, we identified ZmCPK2 as a negative regulator of drought resistance by screening an overexpression transgenic maize pool. We found that ZmCPK2 does not bind calcium, and its activity is mainly inhibited during short term abscisic acid (ABA) treatment, and dynamically changed in prolonged treatment. Interestingly, ZmCPK2 interacts with and is inhibited by calcium‐dependent ZmCPK17, a positive regulator of drought resistance, which is activated by ABA. ZmCPK17 could prevent the nuclear localization of ZmCPK2 through phosphorylation of ZmCPK2T60. ZmCPK2 interacts with and phosphorylates and activates ZmYAB15, a negative transcriptional factor for drought resistance. Our results suggest that drought stress‐induced Ca2+ can be decoded directly by ZmCPK17 that inhibits ZmCPK2, thereby promoting plant adaptation to water deficit.
PARP1 in the intersection of different DNA repair pathways, memory formation, and sleep pressure in neurons
Authors: Feltes Bruno César , Alvares Lucas de Oliveira
Published: May 2024

Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1 (PARP1) is a bottleneck that connects different DNA pathways during a DNA damage response. Interestingly, PARP1 has a dualist role in neurons, acting as a neuroprotector and inducer of cell death in distinct neurological diseases. Recent studies significantly expanded our knowledge of how PARP1 regulates repair pathways in neurons and uncovered new roles for PARP1 in promoting sleep to enhance DNA repair. Likewise, PARP1 is deeply associated with memory consolidation, implying that it has multiple layers of regulation in the neural tissue. In this review, we critically discuss PARP1 recent advances in neurons, focusing on its interplay with different DNA repair mechanisms, memory, and sleep. Provocative questions about how oxidative damage is accessed, and different hypotheses about the molecular mechanisms influenced by PARP1 in neurons are presented to expand the debate of future studies.

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ACVIM consensus statement on the diagnosis of immune thrombocytopenia in dogs and cats
Authors: LeVine Dana N. , Kidd Linda , Garden Oliver A. , Brooks Marjory B. , Goggs Robert , Kohn Barbara , Mackin Andrew J. , Eldermire Erin R. B. , Chang Yu‐Mei , Allen Julie , Christopherson Peter W. , Glanemann Barbara , Maruyama Haruhiko , Naskou Maria C. , Nielsen Lise N. , Shropshire Sarah , Viall Austin K. , Birkenheuer Adam J. , Forman Marnin A. , Hanzlicek Andrew S. , Langner Kathrin F. , Lashnits Erin , Lunn Katharine F. , Makielski Kelly M. , Roura Xavier , Spada Eva
Published: May 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is the most common acquired primary hemostatic disorder in dogs. Immune thrombocytopenia less commonly affects cats but is an important cause of mortality and treatment‐associated morbidity in both species. Immune thrombocytopenia remains a diagnosis of exclusion for which diagnostic guidelines are lacking. Primary, or non‐associative, ITP refers to autoimmune platelet destruction. Secondary, or associative, ITP arises in response to an underlying disease trigger. However, evidence for which comorbidities serve as ITP triggers has not been systematically evaluated. To identify key diagnostic steps for ITP and important comorbidities associated with secondary ITP, we developed 12 Population Evaluation/Exposure Comparison Outcome (PECO) format questions. These questions were addressed by evidence evaluators utilizing a literature pool of 287 articles identified by the panelists using a structured search strategy. Evidence evaluators, using panel‐designed templates and data extraction tools, summarized evidence and created guideline recommendations that then were integrated by diagnosis and comorbidity domain chairs. The revised PECO responses underwent a Delphi survey process to reach consensus on final guidelines. A combination of panel expertise and PECO responses were employed to develop algorithms for diagnosis of ITP in dogs and cats, which also underwent 4 iterations of Delphi review. Comorbidity evidence evaluators employed an integrated measure of evidence (IME) tool to determine evidence quality for each comorbidity; IME values combined with evidence summaries for each comorbidity were integrated to develop ITP screening recommendations, which also were subjected to Delphi review. Commentary was solicited from multiple relevant professional organizations before finalizing the consensus. The final consensus statement provides clinical guidelines for the diagnosis of, and underlying disease screening for, ITP in dogs and cats. The systematic consensus process identified numerous knowledge gaps that should guide future studies. This statement is a companion manuscript to the ACVIM Consensus Statement on the Treatment of Immune Thrombocytopenia.
Schumpeter and the post‐Keynesian monetary theory
Authors: Bertocco Giancarlo , Kalajzić Andrea
Published: May 2024

The name of Schumpeter is not among those of the precursors of post‐Keynesian monetary theory. This seems understandable when considering Schumpeter's ferocious criticism of The General Theory. However, in recent years various authors have highlighted significant points of contact between Schumpeter's monetary theory and that of Keynes and of post‐Keynesians. The objective of this work is not only to indicate the similarities between Schumpeter's monetary theory and that of the post‐Keynesians, but rather to show that Schumpeter's approach to money and credit allows making post‐Keynesian monetary theory more solid. In particular, we will show that Schumpeter's monetary theory enables to develop an explanation of the principle of effective demand sounder than that based on the simple presence of endogenous money and on the liquidity preference theory.
Soil fungal and bacterial communities reflect differently tundra vegetation state transitions and soil physico‐chemical properties
Authors: Huusko Karoliina , Manninen Outi H. , Myrsky Eero , Stark Sari
Published: May 2024

Strong disturbances may induce ecosystem transitions into new alternative states that sustain through plant–soil interactions, such as the transition of dwarf shrub‐dominated into graminoid‐dominated vegetation by herbivory in tundra. Little evidence exists on soil microbial communities in alternative states, and along the slow process of ecosystem return into the predisturbance state.

We analysed vegetation, soil microbial communities and activities as well as soil physico‐chemical properties in historical reindeer enclosures in northernmost Finland in the following plot types: control heaths in the surrounding tundra; graminoid‐dominated; ‘shifting’; and recovered dwarf shrub‐dominated vegetation inside enclosures.

Soil fungal communities followed changes in vegetation, whereas bacterial communities were more affected by soil physico‐chemical properties. Graminoid plots were characterized by moulds, pathotrophs and dark septate endophytes. Ericoid mycorrhizal and saprotrophic fungi were typical for control and recovered plots. Soil microbial communities inside the enclosures showed historical contingency, as their spatial variation was high in recovered plots despite the vegetation being more homogeneous.

Self‐maintaining feedback loops between plant functional types, soil microbial communities, and carbon and nutrient mineralization act effectively to stabilize alternative vegetation states, but once predisturbance vegetation reestablishes itself, soil microbial communities and physico‐chemical properties return back towards their predisturbance state.
Subjectivity through the lens of Guattari: A key concept for nursing
Authors: Lavoie Jasmine , Laurin Annie‐Claude , Martin Patrick
Published: May 2024

Félix Guattari, a French philosopher and psychotherapist often recognized for his collaboration with Gilles Deleuze, also published important work of his own. The way he conceptualizes subjectivity and schizoanalysis (later developed into institutional analysis) can incite us to interpret our social contexts differently and to help frame an emancipatory path in nursing. At La Borde, a psychiatric clinic, subjectivity was seen as the real power that lies within the institutions; invisible and flowing through all levels of the hierarchal structure—like waves—each of them unique but still part of the same ocean. Even with its elusive character, this concept can be wielded through psychotherapeutic techniques of analysis which aim to reduce hierarchies, encourage collaborations, decentralize levers of power and promote initiatives that arise from the base. These concepts deserve further exploration when it comes to modern institutional issues like the ones present in Quebec's (Canada) healthcare system. Therefore, this article borrows theorizations elaborated through psychotherapy and applies them to the hospital institution which is seen as an organized, stable structure (the molar line), while paying attention to fluid, changing processes and the multiplicity of desires for transformation (the molecular line), to promote nursing movements that escape and abolish these structures, creating new possibilities and new forms of thinking (the line of flight).
Regulatory networks of senescence‐associated gene‐transcription factors promote degradation in Moso bamboo shoots
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Shi Man , Yang Kebin , Zhang Junbo , Gao Zhimin , El‐Kassaby Yousry A. , Li Quan , Cao Tingting , Deng Shixin , Qing Hongsheng , Wang Zhikang , Song Xinzhang
Published: May 2024

Bamboo cultivation, particularly Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), holds significant economic importance in various regions worldwide. Bamboo shoot degradation (BSD) severely affects productivity and economic viability. However, despite its agricultural consequences, the molecular mechanisms underlying BSD remain unclear. Consequently, we explored the dynamic changes of BSD through anatomy, physiology and the transcriptome. Our findings reveal ruptured protoxylem cells, reduced cell wall thickness and the accumulation of sucrose and reactive oxygen species (ROS) during BSD. Transcriptomic analysis underscored the importance of genes related to plant hormone signal transduction, sugar metabolism and ROS homoeostasis in this process. Furthermore, BSD appears to be driven by the coexpression regulatory network of senescence‐associated gene transcription factors (SAG‐TFs), specifically PeSAG39, PeWRKY22 and PeWRKY75, primarily located in the protoxylem of vascular bundles. Yeast one‐hybrid and dual‐luciferase assays demonstrated that PeWRKY22 and PeWRKY75 activate PeSAG39 expression by binding to its promoter. This study advanced our understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms governing BSD, offering a valuable reference for enhancing Moso bamboo forest productivity.