bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early reduction in albuminuria is associated with a steeper ‘dip’ in initial estimated glomerular filtration rate but favourable long‐term kidney outcomes in people with diabetes receiving sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors
Authors: Kao Yi‐Wei , Yen Kun‐Chi , Chen Shao‐Wei , Chao Tze‐Fan , Chan Yi‐Hsin
Published: July 2024

Aim

To assess if early change in albuminuria was linked to an initial change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and long‐term kidney outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) receiving sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Methods

Using a medical database from a multicentre healthcare institute in Taiwan, we retrospectively enrolled 8310 people receiving SGLT2 inhibitors from 1 June 2016 to 31 December 2021. We compared the risks of initial eGFR decline, major adverse renal events (MARE; >50% eGFR reduction or development of end‐stage kidney disease), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), or hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

In all, 36.8% (n = 3062) experienced a >30% decrease, 21.0% (n = 1743) experienced a 0%–30% decrease, 14.4% (n = 1199) experienced a 0%–30% increase, and 27.7% (n = 2306) experienced a >30% increase in urine albumin‐to‐creatine ratio (UACR) after 3 months of SGLT2 inhibitor treatment. Greater acute eGFR decline at 3 months correlated with greater UACR reduction: −3.6 ± 10.9, −2.0 ± 9.5, −1.1 ± 8.6, and −0.3 ± 9.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 for the respective UACR change groups (p < 0.001). Over a median of 29.0 months, >30% UACR decline was associated with a higher risk of >30% initial eGFR decline (hazard ratio [HR] 2.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.61–4.47]), a lower risk of MARE (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.48–0.89), and a comparable risk of MACE or HHF after multivariate adjustment (p < 0.05). The nonlinear analysis showed early UACR decline was linked to a lower risk of MARE but a higher risk of initial steep eGFR decline of >30%.

Conclusion

Physicians should be vigilant for the potential adverse effects of abrupt eGFR dipping associated with a profound reduction in UACR, despite the favourable long‐term kidney outcomes in the population with T2D receiving SGLT2 inhibitor treatment.
Neuregulin4‐ErbB4 signalling pathway is driven by electroacupuncture stimulation to remodel brown adipose tissue innervation
Authors: Yu Ziwei , Zhang Ting , Yang Xingyu , Xu Bin , Yu Zhi , An Li , Xu Tiancheng , Jing Xinyue , Wang Yaling , Lu Mengjiang
Published: July 2024

Aim

To show that electroacupuncture stimulation (ES) remodels sympathetic innervation in brown adipose tissue (BAT) via the bone morphogenic protein 8B (BMP8B)‐neuregulin 4 (NRG4)‐ErbB4 axis, with somatotopic dependence.

Materials and methods

We established a high‐fat diet (HFD) model with C57BL/6J mice to measure the thermogenesis and metabolism of BAT. In addition, the sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) was measured with the electrophysiological technique, and the immunostaining of c‐Fos was used to detect the central nervous system sources of sympathetic outflows. Finally, the key role of the BMP8B‐NRG4‐ErbB4 axis was verified by peripheral specific antagonism of ErbB4.

Results

ES at the forelimb and abdomen regions significantly up‐regulate SNA, whereas ES at the hindlimb region has a limited regulatory effect on SNA but still partially restores HFD‐induced BAT dysfunction. Mechanistically, ES at the forelimb and abdomen regions driving catecholaminergic signals in brown adipocytes depends on neural activities projected from the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH) to the spinal cord intermediolateral column (IML). Notably, the peripheral suppression of ErbB4 in BAT inhibits the thermogenesis and metabolic function of BAT, as well as significantly hindering the SNA activation and metabolic benefits induced by ES.

Conclusion

These results suggest that ES appears to be an effective approach for remodeling sympathetic innervation in BAT, which is closely related to neuronal activity in the VMH and the NRG4‐ErbB4 signaling pathway.
The association of diabetes with progression of sleep‐disordered breathing based on a prospective cohort
Authors: Zhang Xiujian , Su Yingying , Zhu Xuanfeng
Published: July 2024

Aim

Prospective studies suggest that sleep‐disordered breathing enhances the risk of diabetes. However, it remains unclear whether diabetes could worsen sleep‐disordered breathing.

Methods

The participants from Sleep Heart Health Study underwent two polysomnograms at a 5‐year interval. The relationship of baseline diabetes to change in the apnoea‐hypopnoea index (AHI) was examined based on general linear models, adjusting for demographics, lifestyles, history of hypertension, pulmonary function, length of follow‐up and baseline AHI.

Results

In total, 161 of the 2603 participants were diagnosed with diabetes at the first polysomnograms. Compared with participants without diabetes, those with diabetes had a higher baseline and larger increases in follow‐up AHI and obstructive apnoea index (oAI). Diabetes increased 2.52 events per hour (95% confidence interval 0.45‐4.59; p = .017) for AHI change and 1.13 events per hour (95% confidence interval 0.04‐2.23; p = .042) for oAI change, respectively. In addition, subgroup analysis suggested that the association was consistent across baseline obstructive sleep apnoea severity and body mass index groups.

Conclusions

Baseline diabetes was associated with worsening sleep‐disordered breathing over 5 years, which mainly increased the change in AHI and oAI.
Climatic conditions and landscape diversity predict plant–bee interactions and pollen deposition in bee‐pollinated plants
Authors: Sydenham Markus A. K. , Dupont Yoko L. , Nielsen Anders , Olesen Jens M. , Madsen Henning B. , Skrindo Astrid B. , Rasmussen Claus , Nowell Megan S. , Venter Zander S. , Hegland Stein Joar , Helle Anders G. , Skoog Daniel I. J. , Torvanger Marianne S. , Hanevik Kaj‐Andreas , Hinderaker Sven Emil , Paulsen Thorstein , Eldegard Katrine , Reitan Trond , Rusch Graciela M.
Published: July 2024

Climate change, landscape homogenization, and the decline of beneficial insects threaten pollination services to wild plants and crops. Understanding how pollination potential (i.e. the capacity of ecosystems to support pollination of plants) is affected by climate change and landscape homogenization is fundamental for our ability to predict how such anthropogenic stressors affect plant biodiversity. Models of pollinator potential are improved when based on pairwise plant–pollinator interactions and pollinator's plant preferences. However, whether the sum of predicted pairwise interactions with a plant within a habitat (a proxy for pollination potential) relates to pollen deposition on flowering plants has not yet been investigated. We sampled plant–bee interactions in 68 Scandinavian plant communities in landscapes of varying land‐cover heterogeneity along a latitudinal temperature gradient of 4–8°C, and estimated pollen deposition as the number of pollen grains on flowers of the bee‐pollinated plants Lotus corniculatus and Vicia cracca. We show that plant–bee interactions, and the pollination potential for these bee‐pollinated plants increase with landscape diversity, annual mean temperature, and plant abundance, and decrease with distances to sand‐dominated soils. Furthermore, the pollen deposition in flowers increased with the predicted pollination potential, which was driven by landscape diversity and plant abundance. Our study illustrates that the pollination potential, and thus pollen deposition, for wild plants can be mapped based on spatial models of plant–bee interactions that incorporate pollinator‐specific plant preferences. Maps of pollination potential can be used to guide conservation and restoration planning.
Corporate governance and firm performance: Evidence from political instability, political ideology, and corporate governance reforms in Pakistan
Authors: Shakri Irfan Haider , Yong Jaime , Xiang Erwei
Published: July 2024

We examine impact of corporate governance on firm performance following the implementation of the changes to the Code of Corporate Governance of Pakistan in 2012. Our sample period from 2008 to 2022 include periods of political instability and shifts in Pakistan's political landscape, providing an opportunity to examine the effectiveness of corporate governance mechanisms in enhancing accounting‐ and market‐based firm performance measures. We find significant improvements attributed to reforms in the regulatory framework surrounding corporate governance practices particularly from expanded scope and composition of boards and audit committees. This led to broader capabilities and effective controls, thus improving firm performance and investor confidence more so during periods of political instability and changes in political ideology.
Characterization of sciatic nerve myelin sheath during development in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Chen Yuhan , Shang Tongxin , Sun Junjie , Ji Yuhua , Gong Leilei , Li Aihong , Ding Fei , Shen Mi , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2024

Myelin sheath plays important roles in information conduction and nerve injury repair in the peripheral nerve system (PNS). Enhancing comprehension of the structure and components of the myelin sheath in the PNS during development would contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the developmental and regenerative processes. In this research, the structure of sciatic nerve myelin sheath in C57BL/6 mice from embryonic day 14 (E14) to postnatal 12 months (12M) was observed with transmission electron microscopy. Myelin structure appeared in the sciatic nerve as early as E14, and the number and thickness of myelin lamellar gradually increased with the development until 12M. Transcriptome analysis was performed to show the expressions of myelin‐associated genes and transcriptional factors involved in myelin formation. The genes encoding myelin proteins (Mag, Pmp22, Mpz, Mbp, Cnp and Prx) showed the same expression pattern, peaking at postnatal day 7 (P7) and P28 after birth, whereas the negative regulators of myelination (c‐Jun, Tgfb1, Tnc, Cyr61, Ngf, Egr1, Hgf and Bcl11a) showed an opposite expression pattern. In addition, the expression of myelin‐associated proteins and transcriptional factors was measured by Western blot and immunofluorescence staining. The protein expressions of MAG, PMP22, MPZ, CNPase and PRX increased from E20 to P14. The key transcriptional factor c‐Jun co‐localized with the Schwann cells Marker S100β and decreased after birth, whereas Krox20/Egr2 increased during development. Our data characterized the structure and components of myelin sheath during the early developmental stages, providing insights for further understanding of PNS development.
Plasma neurofilament light chain levels in chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity according to type of anticancer drug
Authors: Velasco Roser , Marco Carla , Domingo‐Domenech Eva , Stradella Agostina , Santos Cristina , Laquente Berta , Ferrer German , Argyriou Andreas A. , Bruna Jordi
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose

A real‐time biomarker in chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) would be useful for clinical decision‐making during treatment. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) can be detected in blood in the case of neuroaxonal damage. The aim of the study was to compare the levels of plasma NfL (pNfL) according to the type of chemotherapeutic agent and the severity of CIPN.

Methods

This single‐center prospective observational longitudinal study included patients treated with paclitaxel (TX; n = 34), brentuximab vedotin (BV; n = 29), or oxaliplatin (PT; n = 19). All patients were assessed using the Total Neuropathy Score–clinical version and Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events before, during, and up to 6–12 months after the end of treatment. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) were performed before and after chemotherapy discontinuation. Consecutive plasma samples were analyzed for NfL levels using a Simoa® analyzer. Changes in pNfL were compared between groups and were eventually correlated with clinical and NCS data. Clinically relevant (CR) CIPN was considered to be grade ≥ 2.

Results

Eighty‐two patients, mostly women (59.8%), were included. One third of the patients who received TX (29.4%), BV (31%), or PT (36.8%) developed CR‐CIPN, respectively, without differences among them (p = 0.854). Although pNfL significantly increased during treatment and decreased throughout the recovery period in all three groups, patients receiving TX showed significantly greater and earlier changes in pNfL levels compared to the other agents (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

A variable change in pNfL is observed depending on the type of agent and mechanism of neurotoxicity with comparable CIPN severity, strongly implying the need to identify different cutoff values for each agent.
Inspection data‐based prediction on fatigue crack of orthotropic steel deck using interpretable machine learning method
Authors: Ma Yihu , Wang Benjin , Chen Airong
Published: July 2024

The prediction of fatigue cracks on orthotropic steel decks is of great significance to the maintenance of bridges. However, fatigue cracks are affected by various uncertainties in reality, which encourages a data‐driven study for the sake of reliability and accuracy of predictions. Based on the crack inspection data from orthotropic steel decks on actual bridges in China, the feature engineering is conducted considering fatigue crack behaviors, and the machine learning models are trained and tested for predicting cracks, including XGBoost, random forest, and multiple decision trees. According to the receiver operating characteristic curves of the three models, the XGBoost model has the best performance, whereas the average AUC is about 0.75, limited by the insufficient data volume of positive samples. With the SHAP values of all features, the interpretation of the machine learning model is presented, indicating that the global effects, that is, the longitudinal position, the loading condition, and the bridge age, are always influential factors for fatigue cracks. The local features concerning the interactions between cracks have an effect on crack behaviors to a certain extent, but less important. Accordingly, the interpretable machine learning model can provide conservative predictions in a rather transparent way on this issue, which can benefit decision‐making in bridge designs, maintenance, and management.
Integrin‐Linked Kinase in the Development of Gastric Tumors Induced by Helicobacter pylori: Regulation and Prevention Potential
Authors: Li Boqing , He Jing , Zhang Ruiqing , Liu Sisi , Zhang Xiaolin , Li Zhiqin , Ma Chunlei , Wang Wenke , Cui Yingzi , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2024

Background

Integrin‐linked kinase (ILK) is crucial in solid tumors by regulating the Hippo‐Yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP) pathway. This study aimed to uncover how Helicobacter pylori influences ILK levels and its role in regulating YAP during H. pylori‐induced gastric cancer.

Materials and Methods

GES‐1 cells with stable Ilk knockdown and overexpression and a mouse carcinogenesis model for H. pylori infection were constructed. And ILK, the phosphorylated mammalian STE20‐like protein kinase 1 (MST1), large tumor suppressor 1 (LATS1; S909, T1079), and YAP (S109, S127) were detected in cells, and mice by western blotting, as well as fluorescence intensity of YAP were assayed by immunofluorescence. YAP downstream genes Igfbp4 and Ctgf, the pathological changes and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β), and nitric oxide (NO) levels in mice gastric tissues were detected by real‐time PCR, H&E, and ELISA assays.

Results

In this study, stable Ilk knockdown cells exhibited significantly higher phosphorylated levels of MST1, LATS1, and YAP, as well as increased YAP in the nuclei of GES‐1 cells. Conversely, cells with Ilk overexpression showed opposite results. H. pylori infection led to decreased ILK levels in gastric epithelial cells but increased ILK levels in gastric cancer cell lines (MGC803, SGC7901) and gastric cancer tissues in mice. Treatment with the ILK inhibitor OST‐T315 elevated the phosphorylated MST, LATS1, and YAP levels, and inhibited the mRNA levels of Igfbp4 and Ctgf at 44, 48 week‐aged mice. OST‐T315 also reduced the release of TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1β, and NO, as well as the progression of gastric cancer caused by H. pylori and N‐Nitroso‐N‐methylurea (NMU) treatment.

Conclusion

Upon initiation of gastric tumorigenesis signals, H. pylori increases ILK levels and suppresses Hippo signaling, thereby promoting YAP activation and gastric cancer progression. ILK can serve as a potential prevention target to impede H. pylori‐induced gastric cancer.
Additive manufacturing of short fiber oxide ceramic matrix composite: Process analysis and material properties
Authors: Stiller Jonas H. M. , Nestler Daisy , Uhlmann Stefan , Kausch Martin , Rauchs Gaston , Kroll Lothar
Published: July 2024

This work investigates the material extrusion‐based additive manufacturing (AM) process chain of a pure alumina‐based oxide ceramic matrix composite, starting from material selection, large‐scale compounding to pellets, the AM process itself, debinding and sintering as well as microstructural and mechanical characterization. The compounded pellets have a volume share of 50% binder (polyvinyl butyral [PVB], polyethylene glycol [PEG], and stearic acid) and 50% alumina (Al2O3, alumina powder, and Nextel 610 alumina fibers) with an aimed fiber volume share of 40% after sintering. The material is compounded on an industrial scale with approximately 10 kg/h and the material extrusion‐based AM process reaches speeds of up to 1000 mm/s. A variation of the feed rate leads to a significant increase in surface roughness and an increase in mass of 30%, in thickness of 12% and in width of 25%. The flexural behavior in the four‐point‐bending test can be described by a fast first peak and reaching higher flexural strength after the first crack subsequent with averages of 23.8 ± 3.6 MPa below .1% elongation. The fracture surfaces show the expected failure mechanisms like pull‐out and crack deflection. The resulting fiber length in the printed samples is 140 µm in average.
Changing the location of proteins on the cell surface is a promising strategy for modulating T cell functions
Authors: Strazza Marianne , Song Ruijiang , Hiner Shannon , Mor Adam
Published: July 2024

Targeting immune receptors on T cells is a common strategy to treat cancer and autoimmunity. Frequently, this is accomplished through monoclonal antibodies targeting the ligand binding sites of stimulatory or inhibitory co‐receptors. Blocking ligand binding prevents downstream signalling and modulates specific T cell functions. Since 1985, the FDA has approved over 100 monoclonal antibodies against immune receptors. This therapeutic approach significantly improved the care of patients with numerous immune‐related conditions; however, many patients are unresponsive, and some develop immune‐related adverse events. One reason for that is the lack of consideration for the localization of these receptors on the cell surface of the immune cells in the context of the immune synapse. In addition to blocking ligand binding, changing the location of these receptors on the cell surface within the different compartments of the immunological synapse could serve as an alternative, efficient, and safer approach to treating these patients. This review discusses the potential therapeutic advantages of altering proteins' localization within the immune synapse and summarizes published work in this field. It also discusses the novel use of bispecific antibodies to induce the clustering of receptors on the cell surface. It presents the rationale for developing novel antibodies, targeting the organization of signalling receptor complexes on the cell surface. This approach offers an innovative and emerging technology to treat cancer patients resistant to current immunotherapies.
An educational approach to develop intercultural nursing care for refugees from Ukraine: A qualitative study
Authors: Larson Kim L. , Choufani Marianne R. , Płaszewska‐Żywko Lucyna
Published: July 2024

Aim

To describe how nurses and nursing students in Poland and the United States perceive the practice of intercultural care of refugees from Ukraine.

Background

Millions of Ukrainian citizens sought safety in other countries when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Introduction

Nurses in Poland and the United States are positioned to provide nursing care for refugees from Ukraine yet lack intercultural knowledge, skills, and attitudes to meet refugee needs.

Methods

This education‐focused qualitative description study was conducted in Spring 2023. Eighteen MSN and BSN students from one university in Poland and one university in the United States completed an international virtual exchange course that concentrated on the health and well‐being of refugees from Ukraine. Students’ reflection papers generated the data for this study. Content analysis was used to systematically structure the data, and themes were inductively derived for an initial understanding of intercultural care for refugees. The COREQ guidelines were followed for reporting study findings.

Results

Major themes were troubled communication, overlooked trauma‐informed care, and compromised vaccine status. Language differences, a gap in nursing knowledge, and cultural variations impeded intercultural care.

Discussion

To address intercultural care for refugees from Ukraine, macro‐ and microlevel factors should be considered. Healthcare facilities need certified interpreters or adequate language‐access technology for nurses. Nursing programs might evaluate content on trauma‐informed care and cultural competency to meet the needs of war‐affected refugees. Leaders from Ukrainian refugee communities could partner with nurses to deliver culturally relevant information to increase vaccine uptake.

Implications

Nurses should advocate for inclusion of the WHO competency standards of care for refugees in healthcare policies with emphasis on communication and evidence‐informed practice. Placing Ukrainian community leaders on health councils could bridge the gap between refugees and mainstream society.
Dental‐nutrition counseling for children with overweight and obesity: Evidence from a pilot study
Authors: Berko Jennifer C. , Klege Rebecca A. , Goodman Devin T. , Casimir Gaëlle , Gabriel Carla J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Given the relationship between overweight and obesity (OV/OB) and poor oral health in children, paediatric dentists are uniquely positioned to provide educational interventions to children with OV/OB during dental visits.

Aim

To assess how an educational nutrition intervention delivered by dentists affected dental‐nutritional behaviors and body mass index (BMI) percentile in children with OV/OB.

Design

Retrospective analysis was performed using data collected on 217 patients with OV/OB aged 6–11 years who received nutritional counseling during dental visits at a Federally Qualified Health Center from September 1, 2021, through September 30, 2022. Data were collected on sociodemographic variables, oral health, and BMI percentile. Participants and their guardians were surveyed to measure the frequency of behaviors related to oral health and weight. Multivariable generalized estimating equations were constructed to determine the effect of the intervention on BMI percentile and reported dental‐nutritional behaviors.

Results

The intervention had no effect on the BMI percentile (p = .35). There were statistically significant reductions in the reported average number of sugar‐sweetened beverages consumed daily (p < .001), reported average daily water intake (p < .001), and the reported frequency of brushing teeth (p < .001), the clinical significance of these reductions remains unclear.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to establish the efficacy of behavioral interventions at reducing weight and changing health behaviors.
Does size matter? Examining the probability of firm emergence from bankruptcy
Authors: Zikri Miftah , Shams Syed , Rashid Afzalur , Krishnamurti Chandrasekhar
Published: July 2024

We examine the association between firm size and the likelihood of emergence from bankruptcy filed under Chapter 11. Using 715 firm‐year observations from 1979 to 2019, we find that large firms are less likely to emerge. We use performance, financial constraints, and information environment as potential channels to examine the mechanism by which firm size affects the likelihood of firm emergence from bankruptcy. Further analysis shows that the likelihood of bankruptcy emergence is lower for large firms before the global financial crisis of 2007.
Synthesis of ZrN–SiO2 core–shell particles by a sol–gel process and use as particle‐based structured coloring material
Authors: Noguchi Shinji , Miura Akira , Tadanaga Kiyoharu
Published: July 2024

ZrN–SiO2 core–shell particles were prepared, where the ZrN core nanoparticles and SiO2 shell were designed to exhibit localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) and structural coloring. The heating of ZrO2 nanoparticles with Mg3N2 under a nitrogen gas flow produced ZrN nanoparticles with a diameter in the range of 10–20 nm. The dispersion of ZrN nanoparticles in water exhibited an absorption maximum at approximately 700 nm owing to LSPRs. An SiO2 shell was formed on the ZrN nanoparticles using a sol–gel process. Scanning transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of ZrN–SiO2 core–shell particles containing ZrN particles with a diameter of approximately 10 nm. The SiO2 shell thickness was controlled by varying the reaction time to form SiO2. The use of particles as a structural component of a structural color material owing to the high uniformity of the size of obtained core–shell particles was investigated. The obtained ZrN–SiO2 core–shell particles were arrayed on a glass substrate using a layer‐by‐layer method. The particle‐stacked film of the ZrN–SiO2 core–shell particles exhibited the maximum reflection depending on the particle size of the SiO2 shell.
Lack of autonomy and professional recognition as major factors for burnout in midwives: A systematic mixed‐method review
Authors: Andina‐Díaz Elena , Rodríguez‐Puente Zaida , Arias‐Gundín Olga , Pérez‐Rivera Francisco Javier
Published: July 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to review the existing evidence on burnout levels in midwives and the main related factors.

Design

Mixed studies systematic review.

Data Sources

PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science were sourced from 2018 and 2023.

Review Methods

Inclusion criteria: quantitative cross‐sectional or qualitative articles published in English within the last 5 years. Exclusion criteria: studies with undergraduate or trainee midwives, studies examining the factors in a pandemic setting and those not answering the research question. Potential risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT). A convergent synthesis design was followed through a thematic synthesis using Thomas and Harden's three‐step method: inductive coding of the text, development of descriptive themes and generation of analytical themes. Qualitative approaches adopted exploratory descriptive studies and participatory action research.

Results

Thirty‐six studies were included, with a total of 17,364 participants. There were higher levels of burnout in midwives who were single, under 35–40 years of age, with less than 10 years of experience and those with young children. Stress, anxiety and depression, as well as the emotional impact of traumatic events, have been described as related psychological factors.

Conclusion

Although extrinsic work factors such as shifts, workload, pay and interpersonal relationships increase burnout, intrinsic factors such as lack of autonomy and recognition are the main factors related to it.

Impact

What problem did the study address? Burnout among healthcare workers has been recognized as a global crisis requiring urgent attention, specifically in midwives. What were the main findings? There is a persistent shortage of midwives that is attributed in part to chronic retention difficulties related to job burnout expressed by these professionals. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? We seek to address the paucity of research on burnout in midwives in the current crisis in the profession. Work factors such as lack of autonomy or recognition in the profession carry an associated risk of burnout and job attrition. Understanding the factors that contribute to burnout will enable healthcare organizations to reduce the current problem.

Reporting Method: Preferred

Reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analyses (PRISMA).

Patient of Public contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Systematic and highly resolved modelling of biodiversity in inherently rare groundwater amphipods
Authors: Knüsel Mara , Alther Roman , Locher Nadine , Ozgul Arpat , Fišer Cene , Altermatt Florian
Published: July 2024

Aim

Groundwater ecosystems harbour a unique biodiversity, but remain poorly studied, mainly due to difficulties in accessibility and imperfect species detection. Consequently, knowledge on the state and change of groundwater biodiversity remains highly deficient. In the context of global warming and excessive groundwater extraction, understanding groundwater from an ecosystem‐perspective, including organism diversity and distribution, is essential. This study presents the largest ever systematic assessment of groundwater amphipods, which are a key component of European groundwater biodiversity.

Location

Switzerland (41,285 km2), including data from 906 sampling sites.

Taxon

Groundwater amphipods, genera Niphargus and Crangonyx (Crustacea, Amphipoda).

Methods

We applied a highly standardized citizen science approach to collect repeated groundwater fauna samples in collaboration with municipal drinking water providers. Using detection–nondetection data of the genetically identified groundwater amphipod species, we assessed the overall species diversity of both rare and common species. The distribution of commonly found species was predicted using multispecies occupancy modelling.

Results

We retrieved 3882 samples from 906 sites, yielding 2350 groundwater amphipod individuals. We identified a remarkable species diversity, comprising few commonly and many rarely found species. Considering commonly found species, we identified distinct distribution ranges, low local species richness and a predominance of negative co‐occurrences. In contrast, a major portion of species were found rarely (generally at just one or two sites each), distributed uniformly throughout the study area and unrelated to common species' recognized hotspots. Many of these rarely found species are not yet formally described.

Main Conclusions

Our results give robust emphasis on the rare occurrence and narrow distribution of many groundwater dwellers. Our systematic and standardized sampling data of groundwater amphipods suggest that rarity is particularly prominent and inherent to groundwater organisms. We emphasize the need of systematic data to integrate rare groundwater species in biodiversity assessments, especially in times of global change.
Functional decline among bullous pemphigoid patients: A retrospective monocentric cohort study
Authors: Ouakrat R. , Peiffer B. , David J. P. , Belmondo T. , Sbidian E. , Canouï‐Poitrine F. , Ingen‐Housz‐Oro S.
Published: July 2024

Background

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) affects older patients with numerous comorbidities. The impact of BP on patient autonomy remains poorly understood.

Objectives

To assess the frequency and factors associated with functional decline (FD) in BP.

Methods

In this retrospective monocentric study, we selected patients aged ≥75 years with BP diagnosed between 1 January 2015 and 31 December 2021 and followed for more than 3 months. We assessed activity limitation at diagnosis and included patients with no or mild activity limitation. We described FD and its associated factors at 6 weeks and 3 months. FD was qualified as moderate or severe. Age, comorbidities (CIRS‐G score), BP characteristics at diagnosis (including palms and soles involvement) and hospitalization were collected. Factors associated with FD were investigated through univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Worsening of previous comorbidities or new comorbidities at Week 6 were collected.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐one patients were included (mean age 85 years), 75 (57.3%) had no activity limitation, and 56 (42.7%) a mild activity limitation at baseline. At Week 6, FD was observed in 44 (33.6%) patients, including 23 out of 75 (30.7%) with no activity limitation and 21 out of 56 (37.5%) with mild activity limitation at baseline. FD was moderate in 20 cases (45.5%) and severe in 24 (54.5%) and persisted at Month 3 in 37 (84%) patients. By multivariate analysis, factors associated with FD were a CIRS‐G score >7, palms and soles involvement and anti‐BP180 antibodies level. Fifty (38.2%) patients experienced a worsening of their pre‐existing comorbidities or a new one.

Conclusions

FD is often observed in patients with BP, especially in those with severe symptoms, palms and soles involvement and comorbidities. A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach involving geriatric assessments should be adopted to manage these patients.
Changes in blood serum parameters in farmed rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) during a piscine lactococcosis outbreak
Authors: Esposito Giuseppe , Bergagna Stefania , Colussi Silvia , Shahin Khalid , Rosa Roberta , Volpatti Donatella , Faggio Caterina , Mossotto Camilla , Gabetti Alice , Maganza Alessandra , Bozzetta Elena , Prearo Marino , Pastorino Paolo
Published: July 2024

The aquaculture sector plays a vital role in global food security, yet it grapples with significant challenges posed by infectious diseases. Piscine lactococcosis is one of the significant threats in rainbow trout aquaculture due to its potential to cause severe economic losses through mortalities, reduced growth rates, and increased susceptibility to other pathogens. It poses challenges in disease management strategies, impacting the sustainability and profitability of rainbow trout farming. The current study focuses on the variations in serum blood parameters of farmed rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss during a lactococcosis outbreak caused by Lactococcus garvieae. Blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, fish were examined for parasites and bacteria, and DNA from bacterial colonies was PCR‐amplified and sequenced for identification. Overall, 13 biochemical parameters, including proteins, enzymes, lipids, chemicals, and minerals, were measured in serum blood samples from both diseased and healthy fish. The results indicate significant alterations in the levels of these parameters during the outbreak, highlighting the impact of infections on the blood profile of farmed rainbow trout. Urea levels were significantly higher in diseased fish compared to controls, and creatinine, phosphorus, and magnesium also showed similar trends. Alanine aminotransferase and total protein levels were higher in control fish. Chloride levels differed significantly between groups. Iron levels were higher in controls and lower in diseased fish. No significant differences were found in other parameters. This study reveals significant changes in serum blood parameters of rainbow trout during a lactococcosis outbreak caused by L. garvieae. These changes highlight the potential of these parameters as tools for monitoring health status, stress, and aquaculture management. Continuous monitoring can provide valuable insights into disease severity and overall fish health, aiding in the development of improved management practices. The presented data contribute to understanding the pathophysiology of piscine lactococcosis and developing effective mitigation strategies for farmed rainbow trout.
A NAC transcription factor MNAC3‐centered regulatory network negatively modulates rice immunity against blast disease
Authors: Wang Hui , Bi Yan , Yan Yuqing , Yuan Xi , Gao Yizhou , Noman Muhammad , Li Dayong , Song Fengming
Published: July 2024

NAC transcription factors (TFs) are pivotal in plant immunity against diverse pathogens. Here, we report the functional and regulatory network of MNAC3, a novel NAC TF, in rice immunity. MNAC3, a transcriptional activator, negatively modulates rice immunity against blast and bacterial leaf blight diseases and pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP)‐triggered immune responses. MNAC3 binds to a CACG cis‐element and activates the transcription of immune‐negative target genes OsINO80, OsJAZ10, and OsJAZ11. The negative function of MNAC3 in rice immunity depends on its transcription of downstream genes such as OsINO80 and OsJAZ10. MNAC3 interacts with immunity‐related OsPP2C41 (a protein phosphatase), ONAC066 (a NAC TF), and OsDjA6 (a DnaJ chaperone). ONAC066 and OsPP2C41 attenuate MNAC3 transcriptional activity, while OsDjA6 promotes it. Phosphorylation of MNAC3 at S163 is critical for its negative functions in rice immunity. OsPP2C41, which plays positive roles in rice blast resistance and chitin‐triggered immune responses, dephosphorylates MNAC3, suppressing its transcriptional activity on the target genes OsINO80, OsJAZ10, and OsJAZ11 and promoting the translocation of MNAC3 from nucleus to cytoplasm. These results establish a MNAC3‐centered regulatory network in which OsPP2C41 dephosphorylates MNAC3, attenuating its transcriptional activity on downstream immune‐negative target genes in rice. Together, these findings deepen our understanding of molecular mechanisms in rice immunity and offer a novel strategy for genetic improvement of rice disease resistance.
Rotational radiofrequency‐based technology leads to adipose tissue reduction and contouring effect in the thighs, abdomen, and flanks
Authors: Santos Alejandra Fernández , Fernández Alejandra Iglesias , Fernández Lorena Suárez , Zapico Leticia Huergo , Freitag Susana Valero
Published: July 2024

Background

Excess body adiposity and skin irregularities represent a major problem in today's society. Currently, radiofrequency‐based devices constitute an increasingly popular medical‐aesthetic application and a powerful non‐invasive method to combat this problem.

Objective

This study aims to determine the efficacy and safety of the high‐frequency device Zionic™ (Termosalud, Inc., Gijón, Spain) in reducing body contouring and improving skin appearance in the abdomen/flanks or thighs.

Materials and Methods

Thirty nine individuals were treated with the Zionic™ device in the abdomen/flanks or thighs. A total of 8 sessions of 40–50 min each, 72/96 h apart were performed. At baseline, body measurements were taken including photographs, body contours, and ultrasound scans to assess dermal thickness, dermal echogenicity, and subcutaneous fat thickness. The measurements were repeated after the eight sessions for comparison and analysis. Quantitative data was complemented with a customized survey to evaluate participants satisfaction level.

Results

At the follow‐up visit, a significant average reduction of 3% in abdomen/flanks circumferences and 2% in thighs contours was noticed. Abdomen/flanks and thighs subcutaneous fat layer thickness was significantly reduced by 8% and 6%, respectively. Dermal echogenicity changes, related to skin collagen content and organization, showed non‐significant increasing tendencies of 7% for abdomen/flanks and 8% for thighs. Thighs dermal thickness was significantly increased by 6%. Results were associated to a high satisfaction level (80%) and no severe adverse events.

Conclusion

Zionic™ treatment is a safe, effective, and well‐tolerated noninvasive procedure for body contouring and improvement of skin properties in abdomen, flanks, and thighs.
Evaluating the harmonization potential of oral health‐related questionnaires in national longitudinal birth and child cohort surveys
Authors: Sharma Vinay , O'Sullivan Michael , Cassetti Oscar , Winning Lewis , O'Sullivan Aifric , Crowe Michael
Published: July 2024

Background/Objectives

Effective use of longitudinal study data is challenging because of divergences in the construct definitions and measurement approaches over time, between studies and across disciplines. One approach to overcome these challenges is data harmonization. Data harmonization is a practice used to improve variable comparability and reduce heterogeneity across studies. This study describes the process used to evaluate the harmonization potential of oral health‐related variables across each survey wave.

Methods

National child cohort surveys with similar themes/objectives conducted in the last two decades were selected. The Maelstrom Research Guidelines were followed for harmonization potential evaluation.

Results

Seven nationally representative child cohort surveys were included and questionnaires examined from 50 survey waves. Questionnaires were classified into three domains and fifteen constructs and summarized by age groups. A DataSchema (a list of core variables representing the suitable version of the oral health outcomes and risk factors) was compiled comprising 42 variables. For each study wave, the potential (or not) to generate each DataSchema variable was evaluated. Of the 2100 harmonization status assessments, 543 (26%) were complete. Approximately 50% of the DataSchema variables can be generated across at least four cohort surveys while only 10% (n = 4) variables can be generated across all surveys. For each survey, the DataSchema variables that can be generated ranged between 26% and 76%.

Conclusion

Data harmonization can improve the comparability of variables both within and across surveys. For future cohort surveys, the authors advocate more consistency and standardization in survey questionnaires within and between surveys.
Embryonic and early larval development of Florida pompano, Trachinotus carolinus
Authors: Morgan Ashley N. , Fogelson Susan B. , Wills Paul S. , Mincer Tracy , Mejri Sahar , Page Annie
Published: July 2024

The Florida pompano, Trachinotus carolinus, is an ideal species for commercial aquaculture because of its rapid growth, tolerance to a range of environmental parameters, and high demand in the seafood market. This study detailed embryonic and early larval development of this species. Florida pompano followed similar developmental sequences to those observed in other marine teleosts, and embryos hatched between 22 and 28 h post‐fertilization. Significant brain lobe differentiation occurred prior to hatching. Pectoral fins were functional within 1‐day post‐hatch (dph). Substantial eye development occurred within 3 dph, indicating visual acuity prior to the onset of exogenous live feeding. Intestinal segments were differentiated by 3 dph, and rotifers were seen in the digestive tract by 4 dph. Digestive functions were limited through the first 7 dph because of the absence of functional gastric glands and gastric mucous cells in the rudimentary stomach, lipid vacuoles in the anterior intestines, and the persistence of acidophilic supranuclear vesicles in the posterior intestines. Within 7 dph, the pharyngeal arches differentiated, and hematopoietic tissue and mesonephric tubules were visible in the larval kidney. Their rapid larval development and organogenesis are additional factors that make Florida pompano an ideal species for aquaculture production and should encourage continued efforts toward commercialization.
Corporate debt value under transition scenario uncertainty
Authors: Le Guenedal Theo , Tankov Peter
Published: July 2024

We develop a structural model for pricing a defaultable bond issued by a company subject to climate transition risk. We assume that the magnitude of the transition risk impacts depends on a transition scenario, which is initially unknown but is progressively revealed through the observation of the carbon tax trajectory. The bond price, credit spread, and optimal default/restructuring thresholds are then expressed as function of the firm's revenue level and the carbon tax. Numerical implementation of the resulting formulas is discussed and illustrated using real data. Our results show that under transition scenario uncertainty, carbon tax adjustments are more likely to trigger a default than when the true scenario is known because after each adjustment, the more environmentally stringent scenario becomes more likely. We also find that faster discovery of scenario information leads to higher credit spreads since better information allows the shareholders to optimize the timing of default, increasing the value of default option and decreasing the bond price. As an extension, we consider the situation where the company may invest into abatement technology, increasing the value of both the share price and the bond price.
Identifying genomic regions associated with C4 photosynthetic activity and leaf anatomy in Alloteropsis semialata
Authors: Alenazi Ahmed S. , Pereira Lara , Christin Pascal‐Antoine , Osborne Colin P. , Dunning Luke T.
Published: July 2024

C4 photosynthesis is a complex trait requiring multiple developmental and metabolic alterations. Despite this complexity, it has independently evolved over 60 times. However, our understanding of the transition to C4 is complicated by the fact that variation in photosynthetic type is usually segregated between species that diverged a long time ago.

Here, we perform a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) using the grass Alloteropsis semialata, the only known species to have C3, intermediate, and C4 accessions that recently diverged. We aimed to identify genomic regions associated with the strength of the C4 cycle (measured using δ13C), and the development of C4 leaf anatomy.

Genomic regions correlated with δ13C include regulators of C4 decarboxylation enzymes (RIPK), nonphotochemical quenching (SOQ1), and the development of Kranz anatomy (SCARECROW‐LIKE). Regions associated with the development of C4 leaf anatomy in the intermediate individuals contain additional leaf anatomy regulators, including those responsible for vein patterning (GSL8) and meristem determinacy (GIF1).

The parallel recruitment of paralogous leaf anatomy regulators between A. semialata and other C4 lineages implies the co‐option of these genes is context‐dependent, which likely has implications for the engineering of the C4 trait into C3 species.
Are miRNAs applicable for balancing crop growth and defense trade‐off?
Authors: Shen Enhui , Zhao Tianlun , Zhu Qian‐Hao
Published: July 2024

Securing agricultural supplies for the increasing population without negative impacts on environment demands new crop varieties with higher yields, better quality, and stronger stress resilience. But breeding such super crop varieties is restrained by growth–defense (G–D) trade‐off. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are versatile regulators of plant growth and immune responses, with several being demonstrated to simultaneously regulate crop growth and defense against biotic stresses and to balance G–D trade‐off. Increasing evidence also links miRNAs to the metabolism and signaling of phytohormones, another type of master regulator of plant growth and defense. Here, we synthesize the reported functions of miRNAs in crop growth, development, and responses to bio‐stressors, summarize the regulatory scenarios of miRNAs based on their relationship with target(s), and discuss how miRNAs, particularly those involved in crosstalk with phytohormones, can be applied in balancing G–D trade‐off in crops. We also propose several open questions to be addressed for adopting miRNAs in balancing crop G–D trade‐off.