bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impossibility of Party Unity in Peru: Party Affiliation, Subnational Electoral Competition and Party Discipline (2011–2019)
Authors: Jaramillo Cristhian
Published: July 2023

Party division in Peru is a constant event and has become an expected feature of Peruvian parliamentary politics. For instance, in 2016, the elected Congress was composed of six parliamentary groups, and at the moment of its dissolution, that number doubled. This article explores the factors that produce such rapid division in the Peruvian Congress during two parliamentary periods (2011–2016, 2016–2019). It argues, through quantitative analysis, that there is a direct and negative relationship between the fragmentation of parliamentary groups and party discipline due to party affiliation and the dynamics of subnational party competition.
Shark‐dust: Application of high‐throughput DNA sequencing of processing residues for trade monitoring of threatened sharks and rays
Authors: Prasetyo Andhika P. , Murray Joanna M. , Kurniawan Muh. Firdaus A. K. , Sales Naiara G. , McDevitt Allan D. , Mariani Stefano
Published: July 2023

Illegal fishing, unregulated bycatch, and market demand for certain products (e.g., fins) are largely responsible for the rapid global decline of shark and ray populations. Controlling trade of endangered species remains difficult due to product variety, taxonomic ambiguity, and trade complexity. The genetic tools traditionally used to identify traded species typically target individual tissue samples, and are time‐consuming and/or species‐specific. Here, we performed high‐throughput sequencing of trace DNA fragments retrieved from dust and scraps left behind by trade activities. We metabarcoded “shark‐dust” samples from seven processing plants in the world's biggest shark landing site (Java, Indonesia), and identified 61 shark and ray taxa (representing half of all chondrichthyan orders), more than half of which could not be recovered from tissue samples collected in parallel from the same sites. Importantly, over 80% of shark‐dust sequences were found to belong to CITES‐listed species. We argue that this approach is likely to become a powerful and cost‐effective monitoring tool wherever wildlife is traded.
Productivity dispersion, wage dispersion and superstar firms
Authors: Bormans Yannick , Theodorakopoulos Angelos
Published: July 2023

Using a rich sample of firms in 14 EU countries from 2000 to 2016, we confirm increases in productivity dispersion, wage dispersion and superstar firms. Beyond reaffirming an incomplete pass‐through from productivity to wages, we present novel empirical evidence of an even weaker pass‐through in industries dominated by superstar firms. This effect is observed in both the lower and upper parts of the productivity and wage distributions, and is stronger for tradable (versus non‐tradable) sectors and markets with low (versus high) collective bargaining power. These findings point to different mechanisms, consistent with theoretical work and various underlying structural changes in the economy.
BRAND ACTIVISM: A Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Cammarota Antonella , D'Arco Mario , Marino Vittoria , Resciniti Riccardo
Published: July 2023

Brand activism is a new and fragmented phenomenon that has been attracting growing attention from scholars. Research on this topic is still at an exploratory stage and in need of advancement and conceptualization. The aim of this study is to systematize the extant literature on brand activism by attempting an in‐depth exploration of the antecedents that identify the construct along with the influencing and consequence factors that will need to be tested and validated by future research. This study adopts the guidelines provided by the SPAR‐4‐SLR protocol and considers 76 papers with no time limitation. To the best of our knowledge, this seems to be the first scientific systematization of brand activism. From the in‐depth analysis of the extant literature, two conceptual frameworks were constructed that can guide both researchers, in their understanding and investigation of the phenomenon, and practitioners in their implementation strategies of brand activism. The no time restriction of the analysis has allowed an investigation of the phenomenon from its prodromes until recent years, also highlighting important gaps that will have to be filled by future research.
Retention and turnover among migrant nurses: A scoping review
Authors: Villamin Princess , Lopez Violeta , Thapa Deependra Kaji , Cleary Michelle
Published: July 2023

Aim

To map and explore primary research about factors related to retention, turnover and turnover intention among migrant nurses.

Background

Understanding retention and turnover among migrant nurses is essential, especially in the context of nursing shortage. There is a range of factors motivating nurses to emigrate; however, factors related to retention and turnover among migrant nurses in the host country are unclear.

Methods

This review utilised Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework for scoping reviews, and is reported with the PRISMA‐ScR checklist. Four electronic databases were searched—CINAHL, PsycINFO, ProQuest and PubMed—to identify primary research published between January 2000 and May 2022. Titles and abstracts were reviewed against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and then full‐text versions were reviewed. Data extracted were summarised, and results synthesised.

Results

Fifteen studies were included, with studies mainly from the Middle East, the United Kingdom and the United States. Personal, organisational, financial, political and environmental factors were found to influence retention and turnover among migrant nurses.

Conclusion

Retention and turnover rates among migrant nurses vary among host countries. The factors identified are related to each other; hence, retention and turnover among migrant nurses are best understood in the context of their source country, host country and individual circumstances.

Implications for nursing policy, social policy, and health policy

Host countries must promote strategies that foster retention, such as reviewing immigration policies to support long‐term immigration and family unity. Organisations employing migrant nurses need to consider the presence of a social network to facilitate adaptation and integration. It is also recommended that source countries address the reasons for emigration and initiate policies encouraging return migration, including providing merit to overseas experience. International nursing organisations should call for an examination of the conditions of migrant nurses to ensure equality across all source countries.
The relationship between the systemic immune‐inflammation index and reverse‐dipper circadian pattern in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients
Authors: Karakayali Muammer , Omar Timor , Artac Inanç , Rencuzogullari İbrahim , Karabag Yavuz , Demir Ozturk
Published: July 2023

Although hypertension is considered high intravascular pressure, impairing circadian blood pressure (BP) has been shown to potentially contribute to poor clinical outcomes. Systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII), based on platelet, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts, has been established as a strong prognostic marker in cardiovascular disease. The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of hypertension is a well‐known issue and inflammatory markers are associated with BP variability. We aimed to investigate whether there is a relationship between circadian BP changes and SII in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. The study population consisted of 196 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients without LVH. In total, 76 (38%) patients had a dipper BP pattern, 60 (31%) patients had a non‐dipper BP pattern, and 60 (31%) patients had a reverse‐dipper BP pattern. SII was calculated according to Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed SII and HDL‐C as an independent predictors of reverse‐dipper circadian pattern in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients. The cut‐off value of the SII for reverse‐dipper hypertension in a ROC curve analysis was >639.73 with 63.3% sensitivity and 84.2% specificity. Our study showed that the SII level was higher in the reverse‐dipper hypertension patient group than in the dipper and non‐dipper hypertension groups. Furthermore, SII was an independent predictor of newly diagnosed reverse‐dipper hypertensive patients. The high SII value in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients can be used as an early warning parameter to identify reverse‐dipper hypertension patients.
Effectiveness of nurse‐home visiting in improving child and maternal outcomes prenatally to age two years: a randomised controlled trial (British Columbia Healthy Connections Project)
Authors: Catherine Nicole L. A. , MacMillan Harriet , Cullen Ange , Zheng Yufei , Xie Hui , Boyle Michael , Sheehan Debbie , Lever Rosemary , Jack Susan M. , Gonzalez Andrea , Gafni Amiram , Tonmyr Lil , Barr Ronald , Marcellus Lenora , Varcoe Colleen , Waddell Charlotte
Published: July 2023

Background

We investigated the effectiveness of Nurse‐Family Partnership (NFP), a prenatal‐to‐age‐two‐years home‐visiting programme, in British Columbia (BC), Canada.

Methods

For this randomised controlled trial, we recruited participants from 26 public health settings who were: <25 years, nulliparous, <28 weeks gestation and experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage. We randomly allocated participants (one‐to‐one; computer‐generated) to intervention (NFP plus existing services) or comparison (existing services) groups. Prespecified outcomes were prenatal substance exposure (reported previously); child injuries (primary), language, cognition and mental health (problem behaviour) by age two years; and subsequent pregnancies by 24 months postpartum. Research interviewers were masked. We used intention‐to‐treat analyses. (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01672060.)

Results

From 2013 to 2016 we enrolled 739 participants (368 NFP, 371 comparison) who had 737 children. Counts for child injury healthcare encounters [rate per 1,000 person‐years or RPY] were similar for NFP (223 [RPY 316.17]) and comparison (223 [RPY 305.43]; rate difference 10.74, 95% CI ‐46.96, 68.44; rate ratio 1.03, 95% CI 0.78, 1.38). Maternal‐reported language scores (mean, M [SD]) were statistically significantly higher for NFP (313.46 [195.96]) than comparison (282.77 [188.15]; mean difference [MD] 31.33, 95% CI 0.96, 61.71). Maternal‐reported problem‐behaviour scores (M [SD]) were statistically significantly lower for NFP (52.18 [9.19]) than comparison (54.42 [9.02]; MD ‐2.19, 95% CI −3.62, −0.75). Subsequent pregnancy counts were similar (NFP 115 [RPY 230.69] and comparison 117 [RPY 227.29]; rate difference 3.40, 95% CI ‐55.54, 62.34; hazard ratio 1.01, 95% CI 0.79, 1.29). We observed no unanticipated adverse events.

Conclusions

NFP did not reduce child injuries or subsequent maternal pregnancies but did improve maternal‐reported child language and mental health (problem behaviour) at age two years. Follow‐up of long‐term outcomes is warranted given that further benefits may emerge across childhood and adolescence.
Non‐pharmacological interventions for people living with young‐onset dementia and their carers: A scoping review focussing on the support of participants' needs
Authors: Kim Iktae , Yang Yoosun , Cheon Hongjin , Kim Jiyeon , Song Jun‐Ah
Published: July 2023

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

Young‐onset dementia (YOD) refers to a phenomenon in which dementia symptoms appear under age 65. Diagnosing YOD is difficult and its progression is fast. Furthermore, it limits the socio‐economic careers of people living with YOD, regardless of their needs.

People living with YOD and their carers have unstable occupational status and their dependents also have to face a high burden of care. They claim that existing social support for dementia is limited to the elderly and is not suitable for them.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

The characteristics of non‐pharmacological intervention studies for people living with YOD and/or their carers so far, and an analysis of the needs supported via the applied interventions.

A theoretical basis and direction for the interventions to be studied in the future.

What are the implications for practice?

Research and intervention development should focus more on the needs of people living with YOD. In addition, it is necessary to understand and reflect on carers who directly care for people living with YOD.

A multidisciplinary programme that supports wide area of the needs should be developed.

Introduction

Young‐onset dementia (YOD) is a highly influential disease that exerts force on the normal life of those who still have to continue social life. Research has been lacking in spite of its seriousness, which accounts for about 9% of all dementia cases.

Aim

This study aimed to examine non‐pharmacological interventions for people living with YOD and/or their carers, and to analyse how those interventions support their needs.

Method

A scoping review methodology was utilized to search the studies examining interventions for people living with YOD and/or their carers, and in English or Korean. The information was extracted, summarized and analysed in CANE categories.

Results

Sixteen studies were included in the review. Five types of interventions were drawn. ‘Memory’ was the most covered part of the needs by the interventions.

Discussion

This study found that interventions currently do not match the needs of people living with YOD and their carers. Multidisciplinary research would be eligible to cover the subjects' wide range of the needs as much as possible.

Implications for Practice

We suggest the development of a specialized needs assessment tool and specialized interventions for people living with young‐onset dementia and their carers.
Bulk mineralogy, water abundance, and hydrogen isotope composition of unequilibrated ordinary chondrites
Authors: Grant Helen , Tartèse Romain , Jones Rhian , Piani Laurette , Marrocchi Yves , King Ashley , Rigaudier Thomas
Published: July 2023

The origin and transport of water in the early Solar System is an important topic in both astrophysics and planetary science, with applications to protosolar disk evolution, planetary formation, and astrobiology. Of particular interest for understanding primordial water transport are the unequilibrated ordinary chondrites (UOCs), which have been affected by very limited alteration since their formation. Using X‐ray diffraction and isotope ratio mass spectrometry, we determined the bulk mineralogy, H2O content, and D/H ratios of 21 UOCs spanning from petrologic subtypes 3.00–3.9. The studied UOC falls of the lowest subtypes contain approximately 1 wt% H2O, and water abundance globally decreases with increasing thermal metamorphism. In addition, UOC falls of the lowest subtypes have elevated D/H ratios as high as those determined for some outer Solar System comets. This does not easily fit with existing models of water in the protoplanetary disk, which suggest D/H ratios were low in the warm inner Solar System and increased radially. These new analyses confirm that OC parent bodies accreted a D‐rich component, possibly originating from either the outer protosolar nebula or from injection of molecular cloud streamers. The sharp decrease of D/H ratios with increasing metamorphism suggests that the phase(s) hosting this D‐rich component is readily destroyed through thermal alteration.
Restoring fire‐degraded social forests via biocultural approaches: a key strategy to safeguard the Amazon legacy
Authors: Pereira Cássio Alves , Tabarelli Marcelo , Barros Maria Fabíola , Vieira Ima Célia Guimarães
Published: July 2023

Wildfires have emerged as an escalating source of tropical forest degradation with a cascade of negative consequences for the sustainable development of tropical regions. This is particularly the case in the Amazon forest region as wildfires have already degraded a considerable extension of both secondary and old‐growth forests, including “social forests” managed by traditional communities into protected areas. Here, we advocate in favor of a neglected perspective recognizing wildfires as an escalating threat of unanticipated but certainly devasting impacts on social forests, communal territories, the social reproduction of local/traditional forest‐based communities, and the network of protected areas devoted to safeguard the Amazon forest legacy, including ecosystem services of global relevance such as climate regulation. In response to this prognosis, we call for a research agenda focused on fire drivers, impacts, management, and mitigation, including the establishment of biocultural restoration initiatives/pilot programs in communal territories. Initiatives should integrate co‐produced goals, approaches, and technology to economically, socially, and politically empower those stakeholders with an effective interest in forest persistence although they are already vulnerable. Finally, we propose a governance model connecting key stakeholders to scale up fire‐related biocultural restoration in the Amazon region with the potential to produce timely and globally relevant knowledge and lessons. We hope our ideas stimulate key stakeholders to promote biocultural initiatives able to guarantee the emergence of sustainable territories and thus safeguard the climate‐buffering Amazon forest and its legacy for the sake of both local and global society.
Proposed quality indicators and recommended standard reporting items in performance of EBUS bronchoscopy: An official World Association for Bronchology and Interventional Pulmonology Expert Panel consensus statement
Authors: Steinfort Daniel P. , Evison Matthew , Witt Ashleigh , Tsaknis Georgios , Kheir Fayez , Manners David , Madan Karan , Sidhu Calvin , Fantin Alberto , Korevaar Daniel A. , Van Der Heijden Erik H. F. M. ,   the WABIP Taskforce on Quality Indicators in EBUS Bronchoscopy
Published: July 2023

Background

Since their introduction, both linear and radial endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) have become an integral component of the practice of Pulmonology and Thoracic Oncology. The quality of health care can be measured by comparing the performance of an individual or a health service with an ideal threshold or benchmark.

The taskforce sought to evaluate quality indicators in EBUS bronchoscopy based on clinical relevance/importance and on the basis that observed significant variation in outcomes indicates potential for improvement in health care outcomes.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review informed the composition of a comprehensive list of candidate quality indicators in EBUS. A multiple‐round modified Delphi consensus process was subsequently performed with the aim of reaching consensus over a final list of quality indicators and performance targets for these indicators. Standard reporting items were developed, with a strong preference for items where evidence demonstrates a relationship with quality indicator outcomes.

Results

Twelve quality Indicators are proposed, with performance targets supported by evidence from the literature. Standardized reporting items for both radial and linear EBUS are recommended, with evidence supporting their utility in assessing procedural outcomes presented.

Conclusion

This statement is intended to provide a framework for individual proceduralists to assess the quality of EBUS they provide their patients through the identification of clinically relevant, feasible quality measures. Emphasis is placed on outcome measures, with a preference for consistent terminology to allow communication and benchmarking between centres.
From crisis to sustainability: The politics of knowledge production on rural Europe
Authors: Arora‐Jonsson Seema , McAreavey Ruth
Published: July 2023

What does it mean to study places in ‘crisis’ and how does that affect the research done on the ‘rural’? To be considered to be in crisis is not really new as any literature review of rural studies indicates. And yet, we live now in a new context, with new challenges for ‘rural’ research, in particular that of sustainability. Sustainability is the new policy focus and is increasingly reflected in research on rural Europe. Although scholars are beginning to theorize on what is sustainable in and for rural areas, our intention is to take this further. We theorize on what the focus on crisis and, increasingly on sustainability, means for the research we do and the knowledge we produce on rural Europe. Our aim is to bring attention to the politics of past and present knowledge production on the rural to be able to imagine just and sustainable futures. In an analysis of literature primarily from Sweden and the UK, we argue that two construals, that of a rural crisis and that of rural–urban polarization, have set the tone for rural studies and may have overshadowed a more plural approach. We outline what might be needed from rural research to meet future challenges and what the notion of sustainability, with its emphasis on the entanglements of the social, economic and environmental, might mean for the future of rural research.
Clinical outcomes in cats with renal carcinoma undergoing nephrectomy: A retrospective study
Authors: Kenny Shannon A. , Cook Matthew R. , Lenz Jennifer A. , Maritato Karl C. , Skorupski Katherine A. , Wustefeld‐Janssens Brandan G. , Pellin MacKenzie A. , Silveira Catrina J. , Veytsman Stan , Selmic Laura E. , Husbands Brian D.
Published: July 2023

Renal carcinomas (RC) are uncommonly encountered in feline medicine. Limited information regarding clinical presentation and postoperative outcomes is available. The purpose of this multi‐institutional, retrospective study was to describe the presenting features and clinical outcomes of cats with RC undergoing nephrectomy. Thirty‐six client‐owned cats were included. Medical records from participating institutions were searched to identify cats that had a histopathologic diagnosis of RC and underwent nephrectomy from January 2001 to October 2021. The most common presenting complaints were weight loss (36.1%) and hyporexia (30.6%). Based on preoperative imaging and intraoperative findings, eight cats had suspected metastasis at the time of surgery (22.2%). Twenty‐eight cats survived to discharge (77.8%). Median progression free interval (PFI) could not be determined, as only six cats developed suspected recurrence (16.7%) and seven cats developed suspected metastasis (19.4%). The all‐cause median survival time (MST) was 203 days (95% confidence interval [CI]: 84, 1379 days). When cases that died prior to discharge were excluded, MST increased to 1217 days (95% CI: 127, 1641 days). One‐year, two‐year, and three‐year survival rates were all 40.4%. Neither renal tumour histologic subtype nor the presence of preoperative azotemia, anaemia, erythrocytosis, haematuria, or suspected metastasis at diagnosis were found to influence survival. For cats surviving to discharge, prolonged survival times were possible. Further studies are necessary to elucidate other potential prognostic factors, the utility of postoperative adjuvant treatment, and to identify cats at‐risk of mortality in the perioperative period.
On the parity conjecture for abelian surfaces
Authors: Dokchitser Vladimir , Maistret Céline
Published: July 2023

Assuming finiteness of the Tate–Shafarevich group, we prove that the Birch–Swinnerton–Dyer conjecture correctly predicts the parity of the rank of semistable principally polarised abelian surfaces. If the surface in question is the Jacobian of a curve, we require that the curve has good ordinary reduction at 2‐adic places.
d
-lactate modulates M2 tumor-associated macrophages and remodels immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Han Shulan , Bao Xueying , Zou Yifang , Wang Lingzhi , Li Yutong , Yang Leilei , Liao Anqi , Zhang Xuemei , Jiang Xin , Liang Di , Dai Yun , Zheng Qing-Chuan , Yu Zhuo , Guo Jianfeng
Published: July 2023

The polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) from M2 to M1 phenotype demonstrates great potential for remodeling the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
d
-lactate (DL; a gut microbiome metabolite) acts as an endogenous immunomodulatory agent that enhances Kupffer cells for clearance of pathogens. In this study, the potential of DL for transformation of M2 TAMs to M1 was confirmed, and the mechanisms underlying such polarization were mainly due to the modulation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway. A poly(lactide-
co
-glycolide) nanoparticle (NP) was used to load DL, and the DL-loaded NP was modified with HCC membrane and M2 macrophage-binding peptide (M2pep), forming a nanoformulation (DL@NP-M-M2pep). DL@NP-M-M2pep transformed M2 TAMs to M1 and remodeled the immunosuppressive TME in HCC mice, promoting the efficacy of anti-CD47 antibody for long-term animal survival. These findings reveal a potential TAM modulatory function of DL and provide a combinatorial strategy for HCC immunotherapy.
Parkin regulates amino acid homeostasis at mitochondria-lysosome (M/L) contact sites in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Peng Wesley , Schröder Leonie F. , Song Pingping , Wong Yvette C. , Krainc Dimitri
Published: July 2023

Mutations in the E3 ubiquitin ligase parkin are the most common cause of early-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD). Although parkin modulates mitochondrial and endolysosomal homeostasis during cellular stress, whether parkin regulates mitochondrial and lysosomal cross-talk under physiologic conditions remains unresolved. Using transcriptomics, metabolomics and super-resolution microscopy, we identify amino acid metabolism as a disrupted pathway in iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons from patients with parkin PD. Compared to isogenic controls, parkin mutant neurons exhibit decreased mitochondria-lysosome contacts via destabilization of active Rab7. Subcellular metabolomics in parkin mutant neurons reveals amino acid accumulation in lysosomes and their deficiency in mitochondria. Knockdown of the Rab7 GTPase-activating protein TBC1D15 restores mitochondria-lysosome tethering and ameliorates cellular and subcellular amino acid profiles in parkin mutant neurons. Our data thus uncover a function of parkin in promoting mitochondrial and lysosomal amino acid homeostasis through stabilization of mitochondria-lysosome contacts and suggest that modulation of interorganelle contacts may serve as a potential target for ameliorating amino acid dyshomeostasis in disease.
Fully printed and self-compensated bioresorbable electrochemical devices based on galvanic coupling for continuous glucose monitoring
Authors: Li Jiameng , Liu Jiayin , Wu Ziyue , Shang Xue , Li Ya , Huo Wenxing , Huang Xian
Published: July 2023

Real-time glucose monitoring conventionally involves non-bioresorbable semi-implantable glucose sensors, causing infection and pain during removal. Despite bioresorbable electronics serves as excellent alternatives, the bioresorbable sensor dissolves in aqueous environments with interferential biomolecules. Here, the theories to achieve stable electrode potential and accurate electrochemical detection using bioresorbable materials have been proposed, resulting in a fully printed bioresorbable electrochemical device. The adverse effect caused by material degradation has been overcome by a molybdenum-tungsten reference electrode that offers stable potential through galvanic-coupling and self-compensation modules. In vitro and in vivo glucose monitoring has been conducted for 7 and 5 days, respectively, followed by full degradation within 2 months. The device offers a glucose detection range of 0 to 25 millimolars and a sensitivity of 0.2458 microamperes per millimolar with anti-interference capability and biocompatibility, indicating the possibility of mass manufacturing high-performance bioresorbable electrochemical devices using printing and low-temperature water-sintering techniques. The mechanisms may be implemented developing more comprehensive bioresorbable sensors for chronic diseases.
Influenza H3 hemagglutinin vaccine with scrambled immunodominant epitopes elicits antibodies directed toward immunosubdominant head epitopes
Authors: Chiba Shiho , Kong Huihui , Neumann Gabriele , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: July 2023

Vaccination is the most effective countermeasure to reduce the severity of influenza. Current seasonal influenza vaccines mainly elicit humoral immunity targeting hemagglutinin (HA). In particular, the amino acid residues around the receptor-binding site in the HA head domain are predominantly targeted by humoral immunity as “immunodominant” epitopes. However, mutations readily accumulate in the head domain due to high plasticity, resulting in antigenic drift and vaccine mismatch, particularly with influenza A (H3N2) viruses. A vaccine strategy that targets more conserved immunosubdominant epitopes is required to attain a universal vaccine. Here, we designed an H3 HA vaccine antigen with various amino acids at immunodominant epitopes of the HA head domain, termed scrambled HA (scrHA). In ferrets, scrHA vaccination induced lower serum neutralizing antibody levels against homologous virus compared with wild-type (WT) HA vaccination; however, similar levels of moderately neutralizing titers against antigenically distinct H3N2 viruses were observed. Ferrets vaccinated with scrHA twice and then challenged with homologous or heterologous virus showed the same level of reduced virus shedding in nasal swabs as WT HA-vaccinated animals but reduced body temperature increase, whereas WT HA-vaccinated ferrets exhibited body temperature increases similar to those of mock-vaccinated animals. scrHA elicited antibodies against HA immunodominant and -subdominant epitopes at lower and higher levels, respectively, than WT HA vaccination, whereas antistalk antibodies were induced at the same level for both groups, suggesting scrHA-induced redirection from immunodominant to immunosubdominant head epitopes. scrHA vaccination thus induced broader coverage than WT HA vaccination by diluting out the immunodominancy of HA head epitopes.

IMPORTANCE

Current influenza vaccines mainly elicit antibodies that target the immunodominant head domain, where strain-specific mutations rapidly accumulate, resulting in frequent antigenic drift and vaccine mismatch. Targeting conserved immunosubdominant epitopes is essential to attain a universal vaccine. Our findings with the scrHA developed in this study suggest that designing vaccine antigens that “dilute out” the immunodominancy of the head epitopes may be an effective strategy to induce conserved immunosubdominant epitope-based immune responses.
Improving access to medicines and beyond: the national volume-based procurement policy in China
Authors: Zhu Zheng , Wang Quan , Sun Qiang , Lexchin Joel , Yang Li
Published: July 2023

.

Since 2019, the Chinese central government has taken significant steps to centralize national purchasing power and has implemented a pooled procurement system. In this paper, we provide an in-depth analysis of China's National Volume-Based Procurement (NVBP) policy, which represents a unique approach to pooled procurement within the pharmaceutical sector. The primary objectives of the NVBP are to reduce drug prices, enhance access to affordable medications, and improve the overall functioning of the pharmaceutical industry in China. Our analysis delves into the key features of the NVBP, including its centralized procurement system, volume-based procurement approach, and the guaranteed procurement volumes allocated to winning bidders. We also address the challenges and implications associated with the NVBP, such as its impact on the pharmaceutical industry, the sustainability of price reductions, and the importance of striking a balance between price reduction and industry sustainability. Through a comparative analysis, we shed light on the distinct characteristics of China's approach to pooled procurement and its potential ramifications for healthcare policies and practices. By examining the NVBP within the broader context of China's evolving healthcare landscape, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the implications and effectiveness of this unique policy initiative.
Reorganising and improving quality of care for hyperemesis gravidarum in a Danish hospital: a quality improvement project
Authors: Ostenfeld Anne , Futtrup Tina Bergmann , Løkkegaard Ellen Christine Leth , Westergaard Hanne Brix
Published: July 2023

Background

Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a pregnancy complication comprising severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It is associated with adverse outcomes for both mother and child. Treatment consists primarily of antiemetics and intravenous fluids; however, support from healthcare professionals is also important.

Local problem

At the department of obstetrics at Nordsjællands Hospital, an increasing workload caused challenges regarding patient care and organisation for patients with HG, and exploring possibilities of reorganising HG care to release midwife resources was warranted.

Methods

Through input from staff and patients, possible improvements were identified. Plan–do–study–act cycles were conducted with staff and patients, resulting in adjustments in care and organisation and thus use of resources. The specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely aims included patient satisfaction and number of follow-ups conducted via phone.

Interventions

HG care was relocated to the department of gynaecology, where it was managed primarily by nurses. Staff and patients were actively involved in the process.

Results

HG care was successfully relocated without compromising patient satisfaction. Additionally, an option of patient-administered home treatment for selected patients was established.

Conclusion

This quality improvement project describes the relocation and set-up of hospital care provided to patients with HG, resulting in high patient satisfaction. This project might serve as an inspiration to other departments of obstetrics and gynaecology.
The Ordinal Consistency of a Hesitant Fuzzy Preference Relation
Authors: Feng Xue , Geng Shengling , Han Banghe
Published: July 2023

An efficient solution to the misleading solutions of decision-making problems is the study of consistency when the decision makers express their opinions by means of fuzzy preference relations. To elucidate the consistency of HFPRs, the S-ordinal consistency of HFPRs was proposed, and S-OCI was also proposed to evaluate the degree of consistency of a hesitant fuzzy preference relation by calculating the unreasonable 3-cycles in the directed graph. Two novel methods were also proposed for calculation of the S-OCI. Moreover, the inconsistent judgment in hesitation fuzzy preference relation was developed. In order to repair the inconsistency of a hesitant fuzzy preference relation, an algorithm for finding and removing 3-cycles in digraph was developed. Finally, some illustrative examples were given to prove the effectiveness of the method.
Primary amines as ligands and linkers in complexes of tripyrrindione radicals
Authors: Habenšus Iva , Ghavam Ameen , Curtis Clayton J. , Astashkin Andrei V. , Tomat Elisa
Published: July 2023

Biopyrrin pigments, which result from the degradation of heme in biological settings, feature three or two pyrrole rings and characteristic pyrrolin-2-one termini. These scaffolds serve as redox-active ligands and electron reservoirs in coordination compounds. Tripyrrin-1,14-dione coordinates divalent transition metals as a dianionic ligand hosting a delocalized radical. Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of palladium(II) and platinum(II) tripyrrindione complexes featuring a primary amine (i.e., aniline, tert-butylamine, 1,2-ethylenediamine) at the fourth coordination site within square planar geometries. Interligand hydrogen-bonding interactions are observed between the coordinated amine and the carbonyl groups on the tripyrrindione scaffold. Notably, 1,2-ethylenediamine is employed to link two Pt(II) tripyrrindione complexes. As revealed by optical absorption and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, all resulting complexes present ligand-based radicals that are stable at room temperature and when exposed to air. Spin pairing through multicenter interactions leads to [Formula: see text]-dimerization of the tripyrrindione radicals and a decrease in the EPR signal at low temperatures. Electrochemical measurements indicate that the ligand system undergoes quasi-reversible one-electron oxidation and reduction, thus confirming the ability of tripyrrindione to form square planar complexes in three different redox states.
Conference Reports
Authors: Dennis Louise A.
Published: July 2023

This section is compiled from reports of recent events sponsored or run in cooperation with ACM SIGAI. In general these reports were written and submitted by the conference organisers.
Evolutionary Computation and Explainable AI Towards ECXAI 2023: A Year in Review
Authors: Bacardit Jaume , Brownlee Alexander , Cagnoni Stefano , Iacca Giovanni , McCall John , Walker David
Published: July 2023

At GECCO 2022, we organized the first Workshop on Evolutionary Computation and Explainable AI (ECXAI). With no pretence at completeness, this paper briefly comments on its outcome, what has happened recently in the field, and our expectations for the near future and, in particular, for the upcoming second edition of EXCAI, at GECCO 2023.
An Acetylcholine Electrochemical Biosensor Based on Bi-Enzyme Functionalized Nanofiber Composites
Authors: Jing Chunyang , Kuang Yijing , Gu Xuan , Xu Mingming , Wu Yuke , Wang Xiaoying
Published: July 2023

This work offered an electrochemical biosensor for acetylcholine (ACh) detection using the bi-enzyme functionalized nanofibers composites-modified glassy carbon electrode (GE). The nanofibers composites (AuNPs@GCS) prepared by electrospinning and electrodeposition techniques, were systematically characterized from micromorphology, active groups, actual areas and impedance, and were used to simultaneously decorate the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and choline oxidase (ChOx). Bi-enzyme functionalized AuNPs@GCS (AChE-ChOx/AuNPs@GCS) electrode demonstrated the superior loading capacity and stability, was firstly used for the ACh analysis, the detection limit was 0.067 nM, it outperformed or compared to the relevant literatures in terms of linear range and LOD. After systematic methodological evaluation and feasibility verification, this biosensor had good stability, specificity and reproducibility. In human serum samples, the results detected by the biosensor were compared with results tested by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). T test was performed for statistical comparisons and p value more than 0.05 was considered no statistical significance. It indicated that this biosensor had a good application prospect in the ACh actual sample detection. This work also provided an efficient and accurate method for quantitative detection of neurotransmitters in complex biological samples.
Development of Rapid Dispense-Printed Flexible Interdigitated Electrode Modified with rGO-TiO2 Nanohybrid for Glucose Detection
Authors: Rezali F. A. Md , Aidit S. N. , Nouxman M. H. A. , Wan Muhamad Hatta S. F. , Soin N.
Published: July 2023

A rapid and facile method in developing a printed electrochemical glucose sensor constructed using flexible interdigitated electrode (IDE) employed with reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is demonstrated. A 2 × 3 silver (Ag)-based IDE array based on a simulated IDE model, was fabricated via a single-step dispense-printing within less than 5 min, while a rGO-TiO2 nanohybrid and glucose oxidase (GOx) enzyme was coated on the IDE surface simply via drop-casting method. Exceptional reproducibility and repeatability of the printed IDE functionalized with rGO-TiO2/GOx in terms of electrical and mechanical performance were observed. The stability of the sensor was investigated over a week period, in which 6%–7% performance degradation was recorded based on resistance measurement in flat state, whereas no further significant loss was noted over the same period in bending state. The IDE sensor was tested using chronoamperometry with varied glucose concentrations up to 30 mM, resulted in a stabilized current after 5 s. The sensitivity plot attained depicted a best linear fit of 0.988 obtained at response time of 60 s, whilst covering lowest detection at 0.05 mM and selective detection from ascorbic acid and uric acid. The application of this sensor could contribute as an alternative method to develop a reliable and economical glucose sensing wearable for independent monitoring.
Inhibition of protein kinase C-α and activation of ezrin by Lactobacillus acidophilus restore Na+/H+ exchange activity and fluid absorption in db/db mice
Authors: Han Yiran , Srinivasan Shanthi , Yun C. Chris
Published: July 2023

We used mouse models of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and human patient-derived samples to show that Na+/H+ exchanger 3 (NHE3) expression is decreased in T2D. We show that protein kinase C-α (PKCα) is activated in diabetes and inhibition of PKCα increased NHE3 expression and mitigates diarrhea. We show that Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA) stimulates NHE3 via inhibition of PKCα and phosphorylation of ezrin.
Contrast detection is enhanced by deterministic, high-frequency transcranial alternating current stimulation with triangle and sine waveform
Authors: Potok Weronika , van der Groen Onno , Sivachelvam Sahana , Bächinger Marc , Fröhlich Flavio , Kish Laszlo B. , Wenderoth Nicole
Published: July 2023

Our findings extend our understanding of neuromodulation induced by noninvasive electrical stimulation. We provide the first evidence showing acute online benefits of transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS)triangle and tACSsine targeting the primary visual cortex (V1) on visual contrast detection in accordance with the resonance-like phenomenon. The “deterministic” tACS and “stochastic” high-frequency-transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) are equally effective in enhancing visual contrast detection.
The Effect of Wetfix and Nanohydrated Lime Additives on Bitumen Aging and the Cohesion and Adhesion Failure Mechanisms of Hot Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Arabani Mahyar , Ghasemdoost Abadi Kaveh , Hamedi Gholam Hossein
Published: July 2023

Aging due to sunlight and the passage of time is an effective element in the occurrence of moisture damage in hot asphalt mixtures. Still, the effects of this parameter are scarcely considered in the experiments examining the moisture damage potential. Accordingly, this study investigated the effect of aging on the performance of hot asphalt mixtures and examined the improvement of moisture damage performance by using antistripping additives via mechanism and functional tests. Two types of aggregates (limestone and granite) with different degrees of moisture sensitivity, two types of bitumen (PG64-16 and PG58-22) with different performances, and two additives (Wetfix liquid additive and nanohydrated lime) as bitumen modifiers were used. Bitumen samples and asphalt mixtures were subjected to short- and long-term aging. The pull-off test was performed to explore the aging effect on different failure mechanisms (cohesion and adhesion), and the indirect tensile stiffness modulus (ITSM) test was conducted to study the asphalt mixture’s performance against moisture damage. The results specify that aging, in terms of hot asphalt mixture hardening in dry and wet conditions, decreased the MSR (resilient modulus wet to resilient modulus dry ratio), and this decline was greater in long-term aging. The pull-off test results exhibited that aging, especially in the long term, decreased the asphalt mixture’s adhesive strength in dry and wet conditions; this decline in adhesion was greater in the wet than in the dry state, and this difference decreased the wet-to-dry adhesion strength ratio (the pull-off ratio). The additives relatively improved the yield modulus of the asphalt mixture, but their effect was greater in the wet state. A comparison of the pull-off test results in cohesion and adhesion failure demonstrated that Wetfix was more effective in improving bitumen–aggregate adhesion, whereas nanohydrated lime was more effective in enhancing bitumen adhesion. The resilient modulus (Mr) ratio in wet-to-dry conditions indicated that nanohydrated lime had better effects on the overall performance of the aged asphalt mixture against moisture damage. To investigate the effect of additives on the performance of asphalt mixtures, a t-test was performed in all modes of control, short-term aging, and long-term aging. The findings showed the effect of Wetfix and nanohydrated lime on increasing the modulus of elasticity of the samples.
Vitronectin Destroyed Intestinal Epithelial Cell Differentiation through Activation of PDE4-Mediated Ferroptosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Pan Wenxu , Xiang Li , Liang Xinhua , Du Wenjun , Zhao Junhong , Zhang Song , Zhou Xuan , Geng Lanlan , Gong Sitang , Xu Wanfu
Published: July 2023

Objective. Vitronectin (VTN) has been reported to trigger cell pyroptosis to aggravate inflammation in our previous study. However, the function of VTN in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains to be addressed. Methods. Real-time PCR and western blotting were performed to analyze VTN-regulated intestinal epithelial cell (IEC) differentiation through ferroptosis, and immunofluorescence (IF), luciferase, and chromatin immunoprecipitation were used to identify whether VTN-modulated ferroptosis is dependent on phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4)/protein kinase A (PKA)/cyclic adenosine monophosphate-response element-binding protein (CREB) cascade pathway. In vivo experiment in mice and a pilot study in patients with IBD were used to confirm inhibition of PDE4-alleviated IECs ferroptosis, leading to cell differentiation during mucosal healing. Results. Herein, we found that caudal-related homeobox transcription factor 2-mediated IECs differentiation was impaired in response to VTN, which was attributed to enhanced ferroptosis characterized by decreased glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) and solute carrier family 7 member 11 expression. Inhibition of ferroptosis in IECs rescued the inhibitory effect of VTN on cell differentiation. Further analysis showed that VTN triggered phosphorylation of PDE4, leading to inhibit PKA/CREB activation and CREB nuclear translocation, which further reduced GPX4 transactivation. Endogenous PKA interacted with CREB, and this interaction was destroyed in response to VTN stimulation. What is more, overexpression of CREB in CaCO2 cells overcame the promotion of VTN on ferroptosis. Most importantly, inhibition of PDE4 by roflumilast or dipyridamole could alleviate dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice and in a pilot clinical study confirmed by IF. Conclusions. These findings demonstrated that highly expressed VTN disrupted IECs differentiation through PDE4-mediated ferroptosis in IBD, suggesting targeting PDE4 could be a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with IBD.