bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of copy number variation in men with non‐obstructive azoospermia
Authors: Wyrwoll M. J. , Wabschke R. , Röpke A. , Wöste M. , Ruckert C. , Perrey S. , Rotte N. , Hardy J. , Astica L. , Lupiáñez D. G. , Wistuba J. , Westernströer B. , Schlatt S. , Berman A. J. , Müller A. M. , Kliesch S. , Yatsenko A. N. , Tüttelmann F. , Friedrich C.
Published: August 2022

Background

Recent findings demonstrate that single nucleotide variants can cause non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA). In contrast, copy number variants (CNVs) were only analysed in few studies in infertile men. Some have reported a higher prevalence of CNVs in infertile versus fertile men.

Objectives

This study aimed to elucidate if CNVs are associated with NOA.

Materials and methods

We performed array‐based comparative genomic hybridisation (aCGH) in 37 men with meiotic arrest, 194 men with Sertoli cell‐only phenotype, and 21 control men. We filtered our data for deletions affecting genes and prioritised the affected genes according to the literature search. Prevalence of CNVs was compared between all groups. Exome data of 2,030 men were screened to detect further genetic variants in prioritised genes. Modelling was performed for the protein encoded by the novel candidate gene TEKT5 and we stained for TEKT5 in human testicular tissue.

Results

We determined the cause of infertility in two individuals with homozygous deletions of SYCE1 and in one individual with a heterozygous deletion of SYCE1 combined with a likely pathogenic missense variant on the second allele. We detected heterozygous deletions affecting MLH3, EIF2B2, SLX4, CLPP and TEKT5, in one subject each. CNVs were not detected more frequently in infertile men compared with controls.

Discussion

While SYCE1 and MLH3 encode known meiosis‐specific proteins, much less is known about the proteins encoded by the other identified candidate genes, warranting further analyses. We were able to identify the cause of infertility in one out of the 231 infertile men by aCGH and in two men by using exome sequencing data.

Conclusion

As aCGH and exome sequencing are both expensive methods, combining both in a clinical routine is not an effective strategy. Instead, using CNV calling from exome data has recently become more precise, potentially making aCGH dispensable.
Intrauterine cannabis exposure and fetal and maternal blood flow: a case–control study
Authors: Brik Maia , Sandonis Miguel , Gil Judit , Hernandez‐Fleury Alina , Parramón‐Puig Gemma , Maiz Nerea , Suy Anna , Carreras Elena
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Cannabis consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of pregnancy and neonatal complications. Since the underlying mechanism is unknown, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the changes in maternal and fetal blood flow in pregnancies exposed to cannabis, Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Material and methods

A case–control study between 2013 and 2020, included women with continued cannabis exposure during the pregnancies, defined by qualitative detection of THC in urine (Cannabis Group), and low‐risk pregnancy women divided into tobacco smokers (Tobacco Group), and non‐tobacco smokers (Control Group). We evaluated the association between cannabis consumption and maternal and fetal blood flow parameters measured by Doppler ultrasound: uterine artery at 11–14, 20–22 and 33–35 weeks, umbilical artery and middle cerebral artery at 33–35 weeks. Cerebral‐placental ratio was calculated.

Results

Overall, 275 participants were included, 60 in the Cannabis Group, 17 in the Tobacco Group and 198 in the Control Group. At 33–35 weeks, differences were found in the umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI) (1.05 ± 0.23, 1.06 ± 0.19, 0.93 ± 0.15, P < 0.01), middle cerebral artery PI (1.75 ± 0.35, 1.90 ± 0.45, 1.88 ± 0.34, P < 0.05), cerebral‐placental ratio (1.69 ± 0.40, 1.85 ± 0.53, 2.07 ± 0.47, P < 0.05) and mean uterine artery PI (0.89 ± 0.26, 0.73 ± 0.19, 0.74 ± 0.20, P < 0.01), respectively. On logistic regression analysis, adjusted for maternal age, maternal body mass index, maternal weight and white ethnicity, both cannabis and tobacco were predictors for increased umbilical artery PI, but only cannabis was a predictor for a decreased cerebral‐placental ratio and an increased uterine artery PI at 33–35 weeks.

Conclusions

Data from a large cohort of continuous cannabis exposure pregnancies show that cannabis is associated with maternal and fetal blood flow changes. However, it is not possible to disentangle the association of the tobacco and cannabis.
Technical considerations for laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair of concurrent Spigelian‐inguinal hernia complex: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Weijie Marc Ong , Lee Jingwen
Published: August 2022

Spigelian hernia with concurrent inguinal hernia is not uncommon. The hernia location makes conventional laparoscopic repair challenging and this is commonly repaired by the open method. We present the technical considerations and feasibility, as well as literature review, of such a hernia repaired via a minimally invasive fashion. We performed a laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair for a 59‐year‐old woman who presented with symptomatic irreducible large Spigelian‐inguinal complex hernia, with a hernia neck of 4 cm on computed tomography scan. The hernia contents were reduced transabdominally and subsequently, the preperitoneal space was created via a transabdominal preperitoneal method to allow for hernia defect closure and subsequent mesh placement. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 2 without complication. At 6 months follow‐up, she had no complications or recurrence. With increased experience, the laparoscopic repair of complex Spigelian‐inguinal concurrent hernias is safe and feasible.
Coordination versus organization: Diverging logics of firm cooperation in Denmark and Sweden
Authors: Ibsen Christian Lyhne , Sezer Lisa , Doellgast Virginia
Published: August 2022

Employers and their business associations have become increasingly important actors promoting market competition – even in once highly coordinated and regulated European economies. Based on a comparison of the Danish and Swedish telecommunications industries, we ask how differences in business association structures relate to the ways firms cooperate in competitive markets. In Denmark, fragmented, competing business associations encouraged a more unstable logic of coordination, with firms predominately focussed on pursuing particularistic interests in public policy lobbying and exit‐oriented strategies in employment relations. In contrast, the unified business association in Sweden encouraged a logic of organization, with firms predominately seeking collective good provision in public policy lobbying and engaging in mutual gains bargaining. Findings contribute to debates on the role of business associations in fostering firm cooperation and collective regulation.
Nexus between economic risk and political risk in the United Kingdom: Evidence from wavelet coherence and quantile‐on‐quantile approaches
Authors: Ayhan Fatih , Kartal Mustafa Tevfik , Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday , Kirikkaleli Derviş
Published: August 2022

This study examines the linkage between economic risk and political risk in the United Kingdom. This linkage has attracted the attention of policymakers; however, there is no consequence of the linkage in the existing literature. The study aims to close this gap for the UK case by applying wavelet coherence (WTC) and quantile‐on‐quantile regression (QQR) approaches and using quarterly data between 1984/Q1 and 2020/Q4. The results of the WTC reveal that there is time–frequency dependency between economic risk and political risk majorly in the medium and low frequencies. Moreover, the direction of the causality changes over time. Furthermore, the outcomes of the WTC show that economic risk leads political risk between 1995 and 2005, whereas political risk leads economic risk from 2006 to 2019. The outcomes of the QQR approach disclose that in the higher tail (0.7–0.95) of political risk and lower and medium tail (0.05–0.60) of economic risk, the effect of political risk on economic risk is positive and strong. On the flip side, at all quantiles (0.05–0.95) of economic risk and lower quantiles (0.10–0.30) of political risk, the effect of political risk on economic risk is positive and strong. The results are also validated by the outcomes of partial wavelet coherence, multiple wavelet coherence, and quantile regression. Hence, the results highlight the importance of political risk (economic risk) for economic risk (political risk) in the UK case.
Intra‐ and interspecific nest stacking in marsh‐dwelling songbirds
Authors: Gadek Chauncey R. , Williamson Jessie L. , Witt Christopher C.
Published: August 2022

Nest stacking is a rarely reported phenomenon in birds. Here, we place the behavior within the broader context of nest functions, describe new observations of nest stacking within and between Neotropical marsh‐dwelling songbirds, and discuss the ecological significance of this behavior, including its role in interspecific facilitation.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Panton–Valentine leucocidin-producing Staphylococcus aureus: a clinical review
Authors: Hussain Khawar , Bandyopadhyay Anisha , Roberts Nerys , Mughal Nabeela , Moore Luke S. P. , Fuller Lucinda Claire
Published: August 2022

Panton–Valentine leucocidin (PVL) is a virulence factor produced by certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus (SA). Through its cytolytic action on the cell membranes of human polymorphonuclear neutrophils, PVL causes a range of pathologies collectively known as PVL-SA disease. The hallmark clinical signs of PVL-SA are recurrent boils and necrotizing skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) in otherwise healthy patients; however, it can lead to more severe and invasive presentations, including necrotizing haemorrhagic pneumonia, necrotizing fasciitis and purpura fulminans. Young adults with minimal previous exposure to healthcare settings tend to be at highest risk for acquiring PVL-SA disease, with close physical contact playing a central role in disease transmission. The prevalence of PVL-SA varies globally; however, this is often underestimated owing to a lack of routine PVL testing. In the UK, PVL-positive SA isolates have been rising over the past decade alongside an increasing prevalence of multidrug resistance in larger cities. This review article aims to raise awareness of the PVL toxin, to aid clinicians with diagnostic pointers and to provide guidance with treatment, with an emphasis on the need for further population-based studies.
Future changes in habitat availability for two specialist snake species in the imperiled rocklands of South Florida, USA
Authors: Subedi Suresh C. , Walls Susan C. , Barichivich William J. , Boyles Ryan , Ross Michael S. , Hogan J. Aaron , Tupy John A.
Published: August 2022

Rockland habitat in South Florida, USA, is a threatened ecosystem that has been lost, fragmented, or degraded because of urbanization or other anthropogenic disturbance. Furthermore, low‐lying islands and coastal areas are experiencing sea level rise (SLR) and an increased frequency and intensity of tidal flooding, putting rockland habitats there at increasing risk of ecological change. We evaluated changes in the extent of rockland habitat under various scenarios of future SLR, tidal flooding, and human development for two endemic state‐listed threatened species of snakes, the Rim Rock Crowned Snake (Tantilla oolitica) and the Key Ring‐necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus acricus). Both snakes are restricted to South Florida. We used recent and historical species' records to determine each species' habitat range. We then estimated the extent of future habitat loss due to SLR and continued human development, as well as degradation of the remaining habitat. We also asked whether the future potential drivers of habitat loss and degradation differ between the two species and across their habitat ranges. We predicted that saltwater intrusion could negatively affect rocklands by 2050, resulting in degradation of 80% of the existing habitat because of an anticipated 42 cm of SLR. Moreover, our model suggests short‐term stochastic events such as storm surge and high tides may increasingly saturate the root zone of rockland vegetation before complete inundation. Under the extreme scenario, we predict most of the rockland habitat used by these two species of snakes may be inundated by 2080. Under the extreme SLR scenario, current rocklands are likely to convert to more halophytic habitat (mangrove or salt marsh wetland) within 50–60 years. Under the low scenario, 31% of rockland habitat may be lost due to human development by 2030. Therefore, mitigation actions may help to conserve specialist species within rockland habitat threatened by human activities and climate change.
Species' movement influence responses to habitat fragmentation
Authors: Chetcuti Jordan , Kunin William E. , Bullock James M.
Published: August 2022

Aim

Human conversion of land leads to habitat loss and fragmentation. The effects of habitat loss are well‐established, but the effects of fragmentation beyond those of habitat loss, “fragmentation per se” (FPS), are intensely debated. One area of debate is how different species might respond to FPS. We will answer whether FPS have more negative effects on species that spend more time in the matrix and less on species with higher potential patch encounter rates.

Location

Virtual landscapes.

Methods

We simulated the effects of FPS on multiple species with different movement characteristics. All species moved with a random walk (RW), a correlated RW (CRW), or a habitat‐dependent walk (HDW). Species also had increasing habitat bias which caused individuals to have a higher probability of moving into a more suitable habitat. The walk type modified the rate at which species encountered habitat patches. Increased bias caused individuals to spend more time in suitable habitats and less time in the matrix between patches. All species experienced higher mortality in less suitable habitats. We analysed FPS effects on species for whom the fragmented focal habitat was the most suitable.

Results

With bias, the species diversity of RW species declined with FPS, while FPS had little effect on the species diversity of species moving by CRW. For HDW species, spending less time in the matrix (moderate movement bias) caused species diversity to increase with FPS, but to decline with high bias.

Main conclusions

These results suggest that even for species that are dependent on fragmented habitat, FPS does not have a unidirectional effect. FPS can have a positive effect on species with high patch encounter rates (HDW with moderate bias) as their functional connectivity increases. These results help to explain why different studies show contradictory effects of FPS on biodiversity.
The homeodomain transcription factorVentx2regulates respiratory progenitor cell number and differentiation timing duringXenopuslung development
Authors: Rankin Scott A. , Zorn Aaron M.
Published: August 2022

Ventx2 is an Antennapedia superfamily/NK‐like subclass homeodomain transcription factor best known for its roles in the regulation of early dorsoventral patterning duringXenopusgastrulation and in the maintenance of neural crest multipotency. In this work we characterize the spatiotemporal expression pattern ofventx2in progenitor cells of theXenopusrespiratory system epithelium. We find thatventx2is directly induced by BMP signaling in the ventral foregut prior tonkx2‐1, the earliest epithelial marker of the respiratory lineage. Functional studies demonstrate that Ventx2 regulates the number of Nkx2‐1/Sox9+ respiratory progenitor cells induced during foregut development, the timing and level of surfactant protein gene expression, and proper tracheal–esophageal separation. Our data suggest that Ventx2 regulates the balance of respiratory progenitor cell expansion and differentiation. While theventxgene family has been lost from the mouse genome during evolution, humans have retained aventx2‐like gene (VENTX). Finally, we discuss how our findings might suggest a possible function ofVENTXin human respiratory progenitor cells.
产前诊断和干预改善结节性硬化症儿童的发育和癫痫结局
Authors: 霞 王 , 一峰 丁 , 渊峰 周 , 莉斐 郁 , 水珍 周 , 艺 王 , 佶 王
Published: August 2022

目的:评估产前诊断和早期干预是否对结节性硬化症(TSC)患儿的发育和癫痫有益。

方法:这项回顾性研究来自于TSC专病队列。共招募了273例诊断明确的TSC患儿(男性138例，女性145例)，年龄在2.0–7.5岁之间，平均年龄是4.4 ± 1.5岁。这些病例均完成TSC1/TSC2基因检测，并被至少随访至2岁。通过比较是否产前诊断和是否给予预防性干预措施两组间癫痫和发育的差异来评估早期干预与早期关注对TSC患儿的益处。

结果:产前诊断患儿癫痫发生率明显低于产后诊断患儿(p  = 0.027)。在产前诊断组中，预防干预亚组的癫痫发生率明显低于没有预防干预的亚组(p = 0.008)。产前诊断组在认知、语言和运动发育方面有明显的改善。在产前诊断组中，预防干预亚组在认知、语言和运动发展方面也有明显优于非预防干预组(p < 0.05)。

解读 基于这项研究，我们谨慎地推测生命早期早期干预可能会降低癫痫和难治性癫痫的发生率，并改善发育结局。使用西罗莫司和氨己烯酸进行预防性干预可能会降低癫痫的发生率。当然这需要更大样本量的前瞻性随机对照试验来支持。
Spatial confounding in Bayesian species distribution modeling
Authors: Mäkinen Jussi , Numminen Elina , Niittynen Pekka , Luoto Miska , Vanhatalo Jarno
Published: August 2022

1) Species distribution models (SDMs) are currently the main tools to derive species niche estimates and spatially explicit predictions for species geographical distribution. However, unobserved environmental conditions and ecological processes may confound the model estimates if they have direct impact on the species and, at the same time, they are correlated with the observed environmental covariates. This, so‐called spatial confounding, is a general property of spatial models and it has not been studied in the context of SDMs before.

2) We examine how the estimation accuracy of SDMs depends on the type of spatial confounding. We construct two simulation studies where we alter spatial structures of the observed and unobserved covariates and the level of dependence between them. We fit generalized linear models with and without spatial random effects applying Bayesian inference and recording the bias induced to model estimates by spatial confounding. After this we examine spatial confounding also with real vegetation data from northern Norway.

3) Our results show that model estimates for coarse scale covariates, such as climate covariates, are likely to be biased if a species distribution depends also on an unobserved covariate operating on a finer spatial scale. Pushing higher probability for a relatively weak and smoothly varying spatial random effect compared to the observed covariates improved the model's estimation accuracy. The improvement was independent of the actual spatial structure of the unobserved covariate.

4) Our study addresses the major factors of spatial confounding in SDMs and provides a list of recommendations for pre‐inference assessment of spatial confounding and for inference‐based methods to decrease the chance of biased model estimates.
Are we passing the acceptable? Standard setting of theoretical proficiency tests for foreign‐trained dentists
Authors: Dalum Jesper , Christidis Nikolaos , Myrberg Ida Hed , Karlgren Klas , Leanderson Charlotte , Englund Gunilla Sandborgh
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Dentists educated outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland have the option to undergo proficiency testing to practice dentistry in Sweden. A standardised evidence‐based procedure for proficiency tests is crucial. This paper explores if the standard setting of the theoretical examination in the Swedish proficiency test for foreign dentists is fit to differentiate candidates who meet the acceptable standard for licensure from those who do not, by analysis of inter‐rater reliability and credibility of Angoff panels and the test's ability to differentiate candidates regarding learning outcomes and dental disciplines.

Materials and Methods

In a cohort study design, test results were collected from seven examinations during 2018–2019 (n = 316), combined with Angoff judgements and demographic data from The National Board of Health and Welfare. Intraclass correlation, Pearson correlation and linear regression were calculated.

Results

All exams demonstrated substantial judge inter‐rater reliability using the Angoff procedure (0.65–0.82). Item difficulty predicted by the expert panels showed significant positive correlations with the item difficulty by candidate results (0.69–0.77). Candidates who did not meet the requirements for pass mark in the theoretical test revealed a significantly reduced performance overall in professional qualifications (i.e., learning outcomes) and reduced performance within dental disciplines.

Conclusions

The results indicate that a modified Angoff method is a feasible, simple, and defensible method for setting the pass mark for the theoretical examinations. The standard setting appears to differentiate candidates who do not meet the requirements of the professional qualifications of the dental degree. Adjustments could be undertaken to further discriminate for competence within single dental disciplines.
Shoulder‐Touch test to reveal incongruencies in persons with functional motor disorders
Authors: Geroin Christian , Nonnekes Jorik , Erro Roberto , Camozzi Serena , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Tinazzi Michele
Published: August 2022

Background and Purpose

Clinical experience suggests that many patients with functional motor disorders (FMD), despite reporting severe balance problems, typically do not fall frequently. This discrepancy may hint towards a functional component. Here, we explored the role of the Shoulder‐Touch test, which features a light touch on the patient's shoulders, to reveal a possible functional etiology of postural instability.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive outpatients with a definite diagnosis of FMD. Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) or progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) with postural instability served as controls. Each patient underwent a clinical evaluation including testing for postural instability using the retropulsion test. Patients with an abnormal retropulsion test (score ≥ 1) also received a light touch on their shoulders to explore the presence (S‐Touch+) or absence (S‐Touch−) of an incongruent, exaggerated postural response, defined as taking three or more steps to recover or a fall if not caught by the examiner.

Results

From a total sample of 52 FMD patients, 48 patients were recruited. Twenty‐five patients (52%) had an abnormal retropulsion test. Twelve of these 25 patients (48%) had an S‐Touch+, either because of need to take two or more steps (n = 4) or a fall if not caught by the examiner (n = 8). None of the 23 PD/PSP patients manifested S‐Touch+. The sensitivity of the S‐Touch test was 48%, whereas its specificity was 100%.

Conclusion

The S‐Touch test has a high specificity, albeit with a modest sensitivity, to reveal a functional etiology of postural instability in persons with FMD.
The efficacy of postdivorce intervention programs for children: A meta‐analytical review
Authors: Herrero Marta , Roca Patricia , Cormenzana Susana , Martínez‐Pampliega Ana
Published: August 2022

Preventive postdivorce interventions aim to help children cope with divorce and promote their adjustment. Nevertheless, questions remain regarding the concrete outcomes of these interventions and the intervention characteristics that influence them. This meta‐analysis of 30 studies analyzes the efficacy of postdivorce interventions on children's symptomatology, personal resources, and adaptation to divorce. Likewise, it explores whether the intervention impacts the putative mediators from the family context and whether the characteristics of the studies themselves also influence the results. Using a data set of N = 4344 individuals, 258 effect sizes were calculated. Random effects analyses evidenced the impact of the interventions on specific variables instead of on children's global adjustment. There were no significant effects on children's mental health outcomes, and none of these effects were qualified by the moderators that were examined. Preventive postdivorce interventions had significant effects, specifically on children's divorce adjustment and self‐esteem. The study of the moderators found that the interventions were generally homogeneous, and only one of the 20 moderators examined had a significant effect. Based on children's age, the interventions had an impact on family functioning only when they involved younger children, but this result should be interpreted with caution due to the small sample of studies. This meta‐analysis provides evidence of the relevance of postdivorce interventions to critical variables as well as information about the role of the intervention characteristics in the effects and makes suggestions for future research on divorce interventions that encompass both practical and empirical developments.
Measuring “we‐ness” in couple relationships: A social identity approach
Authors: Cruwys Tegan , South Erica I. , Halford William Kim , Murray Judith A. , Fladerer Martin P.
Published: August 2022

Research on couple relationships has increasingly focused on the concept of “we‐ness”, the subjective closeness of the couple bond, as crucial to predicting relationship outcomes including satisfaction and dissolution. However, diverging perspectives on the definition, terminology, and measurement of this concept persist. We drew upon social identity theorizing to clarify the nature of we‐ness and investigate its predictive utility. Participants were 375 members of the general community in long‐term intimate relationships. The sample were aged 18–74 (M = 37.22; SD = 12.00) and 69% were women. Participants completed seven measures of we‐ness drawn from both the couple literature and the social identity literature. We used exploratory factor analyses to establish the latent structure of we‐ness, and regression analyses to examine the utility of each we‐ness factor in predicting relationship satisfaction and likelihood of dissolution. A four‐factor solution was extracted and the factors were labeled couple identity, partner liking, relationship orientation, and partner similarity. Each of the four factors explained unique variance in relationship quality, with couple identity being most strongly associated with positive outcomes. We conclude that couple research can fruitfully draw upon social identity theorizing in conceptualizing we‐ness. This has implications both for more effectively measuring key concepts and for more precisely targeting interventions in couple therapy.
Actual weld profile fatigue performance by digital prototyping of defected and un‐defected joints
Authors: Livieri Paolo , Tovo Roberto
Published: August 2022

This paper considers the effects of the actual weld profile on the fatigue behavior of welded joints by means of the implicit gradient approach. Different types of geometrical approximation are considered in the analysis. In order to define the fatigue strength reduction factor of the actual weld profile, FE analyses have been considered based on a three‐dimensional scan of the welded joints. Furthermore, the fatigue behavior of butt‐welded joints with a discontinuous undercut is considered, and a comparison has been made with experimental data taken from the literature.
Advances in scaffolds used forpulp–dentinecomplex tissue engineering: A narrative review
Authors: Noohi Parisa , Abdekhodaie Mohammad J. , Nekoofar Mohammad H. , Galler Kerstin M. , Dummer Paul M. H.
Published: August 2022

Background

Pulp–dentine complex regeneration via tissue engineering is a developing treatment modality that aims to replace necrotic pulps with newly formed healthy tissue inside the root canal. Designing and fabricating an appropriate scaffold is a crucial step in such a treatment.

Objectives

The present study aimed to review recent advances in the design and fabrication of scaffolds for de novo regeneration of pulp–dentine complexes via tissue engineering approaches.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Europe PMC, Scopus and Google Scholar databases. To highlight bioengineering techniques for de novo regeneration of pulp–dentine complexes, both in vitro and in vivo studies were included, and clinical studies were excluded.

Results

In the present review, four main classes of scaffolds used to engineer pulp–dentine complexes, including bioceramic‐based scaffolds, synthetic polymer‐based scaffolds, natural polymer‐based scaffolds and composite scaffolds, are covered. Additionally, recent advances in the design, fabrication and application of such scaffolds are analysed along with their advantages and limitations. Finally, the importance of vascular network establishment in the success of pulp–dentine complex regeneration and strategies used to create scaffolds to address this challenge are discussed.

Discussion

In the tissue engineering platform, scaffolds provide structural support for cells to adhere and proliferate and also regulate cell differentiation and metabolism. Up to now, considerable progress has been achieved in the field of pulp–dentine complex tissue engineering, and a spectrum of scaffolds ranging from bioceramic‐based to naturally derived scaffolds has been fabricated. However, in designing a suitable scaffold for engineering pulp–dentine complexes, a variety of characteristic parameters related to biological, structural, physical and chemical features should be considered.

Conclusion

The variety of biomaterials and fabrication techniques provides a great opportunity to address some of the requirements for scaffolds in regenerative endodontics. However, more studies are required to develop an ideal scaffold for use in a clinical setting.
Simultaneous detection of JAK2, CALR, and MPL mutations and quantitation of JAK2 V617F allele burden in myeloproliferative neoplasms using the quenching probe‐Tm method in i‐densy IS‐5320
Authors: Arai Kunihito , Sakaguchi Masahiro , Yui Shunsuke , Kitano Tomoaki , Miyata Miho , Yogosawa Mayumi , Nakayama Kazutaka , Tajika Kenji , Usuki Kensuke , Kuroda Junya , Uoshima Nobuhiko , Kobayashi Yutaka , Uchiyama Hitoji , Kubota Yasushi , Kimura Shinya , Mori Shinichiro , Hirai Mitsuharu , Wakita Satoshi , Yamaguchi Hiroki
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Accurate detection of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN)‐associated gene mutations is necessary to correctly diagnose MPN. However, conventional gene testing has various limitations, including the requirement of skilled technicians, cumbersome experimental procedures, and turnaround time of several days. The gene analyzer i‐densy IS‐5320 allows gene testing using the quenching probe‐Tm method. Specifically, pretreatment of samples including DNA extraction, amplification and detection of genes, and analysis of results are performed in a fully automatic manner after samples and test reagents are added into this system, which is compact and can be easily installed in a laboratory. The aim of this study is to investigate the sensitivity and specificity associated with the simultaneous detection of MPN‐associated gene mutations.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of MPN‐associated genes using i‐densy IS‐5320. We analyzed 384 samples (171 JAK2 V617F mutations, 10 JAK2 exon12 mutations, 104 CALR mutations, and 26 MPL mutations) that had been examined using conventional approaches such as allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR), droplet digital PCR, and the direct sequencing method.

Results

The detection accuracy of JAK2 V617F, JAK2 exon 12, CALR, and MPL was 100.0% (383/383), 99.7% (383/384), 100.0% (370/370), and 99.7% (377/378), respectively. There was a strong positive correlation between the JAK2 V617F allele burden measured using conventional methods and i‐densy IS‐5320 (r = .989).

Conclusion

Overall, i‐densy IS‐5320 exhibited good accuracy in terms of analyzing MPN‐associated genes; thus, it can serve as a replacement for conventional methods of MPN‐associated gene testing.
The high‐density grid catheter: A safe adjunctive tool in pediatric and complex congenital heart disease patients
Authors: Newlon Claire , Asaki S. Yukiko , Pilcher Thomas A. , Ou Zhining , Etheridge Susan P. , Niu Mary C.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

The safety and utility of the Advisor™ High‐Density Grid mapping catheter (HDGC) in children and congenital heart disease (CHD) patients are not well described.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective cohort study of pediatric and CHD patients undergoing electrophysiology study and ablation to determine the effect of HDGC use on outcomes including complications, fluoroscopy use, procedure duration, acute ablation success, and arrhythmia recurrence.

Results

HDGC was used in 74/261 (28.3%) cases. HDGC subjects differed by median age (17 vs. 13 years; p < 0.001), weight (68 vs. 50 kg; p < 0.001), and prevalence of significant CHD (42% vs. 3%; p < 0.001). Arrhythmia substrates were dissimilar: HGDC cases had higher frequencies of intra‐atrial re‐entrant tachycardia (25.7% vs. 0.5%), atrial flutter (8.1% vs. 1.1%), ectopic atrial tachycardia (13.5% vs. 3.7%), and premature ventricular contractions (9.5% vs. 0.5%), and lower incidences of atrioventricular re‐entrant tachycardia (16.2% vs. 46.1%). Complications were rare (n = 5, 1.9%) with no significant difference between groups (p = 1.00). Procedure duration—but not fluoroscopy exposure—was significantly longer in HDGC cases (median 256 vs. 216 min, p < 0.001). Acute success was lower (93.2% vs. 99.4%; p = 0.01) and recurrences higher (13.2% vs. 3.8%; p = 0.016) in HDGC compared to non‐HDGC cases.

Conclusion

HDGC use in children and CHD patients is safe and not associated with higher complication rates. The lower acute success and higher recurrence rates in HDGC cases likely reflect a bias toward HDGC use in more complex arrhythmia substrates rather than less favorable ablation outcomes.
Associations of genetic variations in NEDD4L with salt sensitivity, blood pressure changes and hypertension incidence in Chinese adults
Authors: Niu Ze‐Jiaxin , Yao Shi , Zhang Xi , Mu Jian‐Jun , Du Ming‐Fei , Zou Ting , Chu Chao , Liao Yue‐Yuan , Hu Gui‐Lin , Chen Chen , Wang Dan , Ma Qiong , Yan Yu , Jia Hao , Wang Ke‐Ke , Sun Yue , Yan Rui‐Chen , Man Zi‐Yue , Ren Dan‐Feng , Wang Lan , Gao Wei‐Hua , Li Hao , Wu Yong‐Xing , Li Chun‐Hua , Gao Ke , Zhang Jie , Yang Tie‐Lin , Wang Yang
Published: August 2022

Neural precursor cell expressed developmentally downregulated 4‐like (NEDD4L), a member of the E3 ubiquitin‐protein ligases, encoded by NEDD4L gene, was found to be involved in in salt sensitivity by regulating sodium reabsorption in salt‐sensitive rats. The authors aimed to explore the associations of NEDD4L genetic variants with salt sensitivity, blood pressure (BP) changes and hypertension incidence in Chinese adults. Participants from 124 families in Northern China in the Baoji Salt‐Sensitive Study Cohort in 2004, who received the chronic salt intake intervention, including a 7‐day low‐salt diet (3.0 g/day) and a 7‐day high‐salt diet (18 g/day), were analyzed. Besides, the development of hypertension over 14 years was evaluated. NEDD4L single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs74408486 was shown to be significantly associated with systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses to low‐salt diet, while SNPs rs292449 and rs2288775 were significantly associated with pulse pressure (PP) response to high‐salt diet. In addition, SNP rs4149605, rs73450471, and rs482805 were significantly associated with the longitudinal changes in SBP, DBP, MAP, or PP at 14 years of follow‐up. SNP rs292449 was significantly associated with hypertension incidence over the 14‐year follow‐up. Finally, this gene‐based analysis found that NEDD4L was significantly associated with longitudinal BP changes and the incidence of hypertension over the 14‐year follow‐up. This study indicated that gene polymorphism in NEDD4L serve an important function in salt sensitivity, longitudinal BP change and development of hypertension in the Chinese population.
Automated referral to community paramedicine during 9‐1‐1 fall calls for resource activation
Authors: Quatman Carmen E. , Wiseman Jessica M. , Sheridan Elizabeth , Caterino Jeffrey M. , Weade Mark , Wisner David , Leyshon Christine , Quatman‐Yates Catherine
Published: August 2022

Background

We sought to improve the referral process to a community paramedicine (CP) program following a 9‐1‐1 encounter.

Methods

An electronic health record (EHR) for CP records with the ability to link to emergency EHR was identified and implemented with a single‐click referral to the CP program. Referrals were tracked for 15 months before and after implementation.

Results

Referral capacity increased from an average of 14.2 referrals per month to 44.9 referrals per month.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest an EHR is a useful investment for CP programs and may be integral to efficient program operations.
Professional empowerment and evidence‐based nursing: A mixed‐method systematic review
Authors: Teixeira Abílio Cardoso , Nogueira Assunção , Barbieri‐Figueiredo Maria do Céu
Published: August 2022

Aims and objectives

To review, synthesise and integrate primary research on the relationship between professional empowerment and evidence‐based practice (EBP) in nursing.

Background

Professional empowerment research exposes an association between empowerment and positive work behaviours and attitudes. Empowerment is associated with nurses' productivity, autonomy and resources. However, implementing evidence into practice is not easy due to barriers to EBP, namely organisational and cultural. Research demonstrating the relationship between professional empowerment and EBP will provide direction for future interventions aimed at the development of an effective healthcare sector.

Design

A mixed‐methods systematic review, according to the Joanna Briggs Institute approach, with results reported according to PRISMA. The associated checklist for systematic reviews was also used.

Method

The electronic databases searched for relevant studies included: Medline, Cumulative Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, and The Cochrane Library; thesis and dissertation databases; and Web pages of reference organisations and Scientific Events programs. Quality assessments, data extraction and analysis were completed on all included studies, according JBI. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise the data.

Results

We identified 477 studies. After removing duplicates and reviewing title and abstract following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 26 papers were evaluated for eligibility. The review included 9 articles. The literature was categorised into three themes: (a) organisational and leadership characteristics, (b) individual characteristics, and (c) outcomes/consequences.

Conclusion

This review highlights the importance of empowering environments in EBP. A relationship was evident between leadership, organisation, empowerment, individual characteristics and the use and implementation of evidence, resulting in tangible and measurable gains. However, more robust studies are needed.

This systematic review was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42018086414).
Pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity prospectively predicts distress during the COVID‐19 pandemic: The protective effect of insomnia treatment
Authors: Reffi Anthony N. , Drake Christopher L. , Kalmbach David A. , Jovanovic Tanja , Norrholm Seth D. , Roth Thomas , Casement Melynda D. , Cheng Philip
Published: August 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic is a rare stressor that has precipitated an accompanying mental health crisis. Prospective studies traversing the pandemic's onset can elucidate how pre‐existing disease vulnerabilities augured risk for later stress‐related morbidity. We examined how pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity predicted maladaptive stress reactions and depressive symptoms in response to, and during, the pandemic. This study is a secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial from 2016 to 2017 comparing digital cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (dCBT‐I) against sleep education (N = 208). Thus, we also assessed whether dCBT‐I moderated the association between pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity and pandemic‐related distress. Pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity was measured at baseline using the Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test. In April 2020, participants were recontacted to report pandemic‐related distress (stress reactions and depression). Controlling for the treatment condition and the degree of COVID‐19 impact, higher pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity predicted more stress reactions (β = 0.13, ± 0.07 SE, p = 0.045) and depression (β = 0.22, ± 0.07 SE, p = 0.001) during the pandemic. Further, the odds of reporting clinically significant stress reactions and depression during the pandemic were over twice as high in those with high pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity. Notably, receiving dCBT‐I in 2016–2017 mitigated the relationship between pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity and later stress reactions (but not depression). Pre‐pandemic sleep reactivity predicted psychological distress 3–4 years later during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and dCBT‐I attenuated its association with stress reactions, specifically. Sleep reactivity may inform prevention and treatment efforts by identifying individuals at risk of impairment following stressful events.
Does above‐average rainfall stimulate a recruitment pulse in semi‐arid woodlands of southeastern Australia?
Authors: Kenny Sally A. , Moxham Claire
Published: August 2022

Questions

Regeneration success of semi‐arid and arid regions worldwide is episodic and often linked to large rainfall events in consecutive years. It is also influenced by past and current land use, seed availability and herbivore grazing. This is particularly true for four dominant canopy trees — Allocasuarina luehmannii (Buloke), Casuarina pauper (Belah), Callitris gracilis (Slender Cypress Pine) and Myoporum platycarpum (Sugarwood) — within southeastern Australia semi‐arid woodlands. These species also apply hedge‐betting when responding to resource pulses with mass germination while low‐level background recruitment continues. We asked if drought‐breaking rainfall stimulated a germination pulse of these species and if it did, how did other external factors (grazing pressure from rabbits/hares, seed source, suitable seedbed) influence seedling abundance. We also asked if evidence of continuous recruitment had occurred during 14 years of drought by exploring trends in juvenile abundance.

Location

Victorian Mallee semi‐arid woodlands, southeastern Australia.

Methods

We recorded seedling and juvenile abundance of the four dominant canopy species at 310 1‐ha sites within semi‐arid woodlands. Seedling presence was explored in relation to rainfall, tree density, ground cover and herbivory. Juvenile presence was explored in relation to rainfall, seedling and tree density, total plant cover and herbivory.

Results

Seedling and juvenile abundance were positively correlated with more mature trees, higher rainfall and no herbivory. Juvenile abundance was also positively correlated with more seedlings. There were more seedlings and juveniles at sites where rabbits/hares were present.

Conclusions

Above‐average rainfall was positively correlated with initiation of recruitment; however, there was limited net recruitment of the four dominant canopy species indicating other factors are influencing germination (e.g. seed viability) or that seedlings are not surviving. The long‐term survival of these semi‐arid woodlands is in jeopardy without a concerted effort to maintain and improve their condition through revegetation works, weed removal and herbivore management.
Retail market trends for seafood in the United States
Authors: Sun Lianqun , Engle Carole , Kumar Ganesh , van Senten Jonathan
Published: August 2022

Interest in retail seafood sales increased dramatically with the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The diversity of species, types of products, product forms, and packaging of the seafood sold at retail, combined with diverse consumer preferences across the United States, requires detailed data and analysis to provide guidance and understanding of emerging trends. Weekly, store‐based, Nielsen Scantrack data for the period of September 2016 through August 2021 were used to compare trends in US retail (supermarket) seafood sales across the 5‐year study period, in continental regions, cities, and species categories sold. Results showed continuous increases in retail seafood sales over the study period at an average annual growth rate of 8.1%, much of which was fueled by the 21% increase in total sales (19.5% increase in quantity sold) the first year after the onset of the pandemic. The South Atlantic region was found to have the greatest total sales and sales per capita among regions. New York City had the greatest total seafood sales, followed by Los Angeles and Philadelphia. The top five most important species categories in terms of sales were, in declining order, shrimp, salmon, tuna, crab, and tilapia, although regional variability became apparent from the fourth‐ranked species. The most important package sizes were 454‐ and 907‐g packs. Frozen and refrigerated categories dominated sales (70% in 2021), with little growth in entrées and a decline in market share of shelf‐stable seafood products in 2021. Retail supermarket seafood sales increased dramatically following the onset of the pandemic, with especially notable percentage increases in lobster (77%) and crab sales (70%) and the lowest percentage increases in tuna (1%) and tilapia (13%). Given that US per capita seafood consumption did not show a corresponding increase over the study period, study results likely indicate a shift to greater relative consumption at home and not an overall increase in US seafood sales.
Frequency of Exposure Influences Accentedness and Comprehensibility in Learners’ Pronunciation of Second Language Words
Authors: Uchihara Takumi , Webb Stuart , Saito Kazuya , Trofimovich Pavel
Published: August 2022

The current study investigated the effects of repetition on the learning of second language (L2) spoken word forms. Japanese university students learning L2 English were randomly assigned to one of three treatment conditions (one, three, and six exposures) and learned 40 words while hearing them and viewing their corresponding pictures. A picture‐naming test was administered before, immediately after, and approximately one week after the treatment. The elicited speech samples were evaluated for two aspects of spoken vocabulary knowledge: pronunciation (accentedness and comprehensibility) and form–meaning connection (spoken form recall). Results showed that (a) the number of exposures positively affected measures of form–meaning connection and pronunciation immediately after the treatment, and (b) cognateness moderated how strongly repetition impacted the pronunciation of L2 words. Moderate learning gains occurred for comprehensibility after six exposures to new words. However, with six exposures, only small effects of repetition were observed for accentedness.
Marantapilosissima (Marantaceae), a new species from Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Ribeiro de Mello Fraga Fernanda , do Amaral Fernanda Moreira , Cardoso Leandro Jorge Telles , Freire Talvanis Lorenzetti , Joffily Ana , Marcelo Alvarenga Braga João
Published: August 2022

We describe a new species of Maranta from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The new species is similar to Maranta divaricata, from which it differs mainly in its shorter peduncles of synflorescences, florescences and cymules, being covered by hirsute bracts, and in its dense hairiness covering the aerial shoot in its entire extension. We characterize the new species in its external morphology, describe the anatomy of its leaves and presented an SEM scanning of its hairiness. Maranta pilosissima is also assessed in its preliminary conservation status and its distribution is mapped.