bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptomatology in Ecuadorian schoolchildren (aged 6–11)
Authors: Vélez‐Calvo Ximena , Tárraga‐Mínguez Raúl , Roa‐López Heydi Mariana , Peñaherrera‐Vélez María José
Published: December 2023

Although the estimated prevalence of ADHD in the school population is 5%, various studies carried out in Latin America have obtained higher figures. This descriptive‐cross‐sectional research analysed the prevalence of ADHD symptomatology in a random and probabilistic sample of 1535 schoolchildren from Cuenca‐Ecuador (aged from 72 to 164 months, 51.3% were female and 50% attended public schools). IQ was evaluated using the Raven's Progressive Matrices Test. The ADHD symptomatology was evaluated using the short version of Conners‐3. Descriptive statistics, chisquares and prevalence data were calculated. We found a total prevalence of ADHD symptomatology of 20.3%. A higher prevalence of ADHD symptomatology was reported among girls compared to boys; and in public schools (compared to private schools). These findings may reflect a higher occurrence of ADHD in vulnerable populations that tend to be less well cared for. Although the results do not come from complete individual clinical evaluations, the representativeness of the sample and the simultaneous presence of scores above the cut‐off points in the home and school contexts show a worrying situation that should be taken into account by agents responsible for the design of public health and education policies.
ICPUTRD: Image Cloud Platform for use in tagging and research on decomposition
Authors: Nau Anna‐Maria , Mousavi Sara , Lee Dylan , Hossain Rayhan , Griffin Tatianna , Steadman Dawnie Wolfe , Mockus Audris
Published: December 2023

Human decomposition studies aim to understand the various factors influencing human decay to assess the deceased and develop postmortem interval (PMI) estimation methods. These types of studies are typically conducted through physical experiments examining the deceased; however, big data systems have the potential to transform how large‐scale forensic anthropology research questions can be addressed with curated images of donors with known demographic, climatic, and postmortem historical data. This study introduces ICPUTRD (Image Cloud Platform for Use in Tagging and Research on Decomposition), a web‐based software system, which enables forensic scientists to easily access, enhance (or curate), and analyze very large photographic collections documenting the longitudinal process of human decomposition. ICPUTRD, a JavaScript‐based application, was designed and built through a combination of the Waterfall and Agile software development life‐cycle methods and provides an image search and tagging features with a predefined nomenclature of forensic‐related keywords. To evaluate the system, a user study was conducted, involving 27 participants who completed pre‐ and post‐study surveys and three research tasks. Analysis of the study results confirmed the feasibility and practicality of ICPUTRD to facilitate aspects of forensic research and casework involving large collections of digital photographs of human decomposition. It was observed that the nomenclature lacked certain law enforcement keywords, so future work will focus on expanding it to ensure ICPUTRD is suited for all its intended users.
Visioning channel evolution for river management: Toward a functional decision support framework
Authors: Downs P. W. , Soar P. J. , Cox A. L. , Biedenharn D. S. , Dahl T. A. , Haring C. P. , Thorne C. R.
Published: December 2023

Improvements in simulating and communicating the evolutionary trajectory of river morphology in response to environmental forcing over multi‐decadal timeframes would foreshadow the development of “foresight competency” in river management, whereby resource managers could strategically plan toward the most preferred of several plausible futures. Of the six steps in foresight competency, visioning, which involves translating scientific forecasts into a format useable by resource managers via a user‐friendly and interactive decision support tool that supports transparent decision‐making, is the least well developed. The approach requires converting forecasting model outputs into metrics of channel evolution that highlight transitions either within or between channel morphology states. Here, seven process‐based state transition metrics are proposed covering channel planform, morphological stability, corridor belt width, floodplain connectivity, bank erosion rate, bedform habitat diversity, and ecohydraulic diversity. To aid decision support, the metrics are converted into graphical indicators that are intuitive for management use and assembled into several prototype dashboard‐style graphical user interfaces designed to facilitate interactivity. A proof‐of‐concept illustration is provided and priorities in development toward a fully operational decision support tool are discussed. Such developments are critical in ensuring the practical relevance of geomorphology.
Reimbursement of interventional oncology in Australia: How it works and how it does not
Authors: Brown Nicholas
Published: December 2023

The practice of interventional oncology (IO) embodies all the qualities that one would expect to find in a modern, value‐based healthcare system. A dynamic, cutting‐edge specialty like IO uses highly‐targeted, minimally‐invasive, image‐guided techniques to deliver cost‐effective, personalised medicine for cancer patients. Unfortunately, the technical and clinical sophistication of IO is not matched by the reimbursement models and funding arrangements in Australia to fully support this critical component of patient care. Differences between state and federal funding lead to inequity of access to ‘standard of care’ interventions for patients across public and private hospitals. IO procedures are poorly represented in the Medicare Benefits Schedule and often inadequately funded to cover the true costs of providing care. Complex private health fund reimbursements and inconsistent rebates for prostheses and essential equipment result in inconsistent access to important services and widely variable out‐of‐pocket costs for patients. IO techniques must be supported by fair, consistent and equitable funding arrangements at all levels to allow for integrated contemporary patient care; only then will the full clinical and economic benefits of IO  be realised.
Maternal risk factors for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: Distal variables
Authors: May Philip A. , Hasken Julie M. , de Vries Marlene M. , Marais Anna‐Susan , Abdul‐Rahman Omar , Robinson Luther K. , Adam Margaret P. , Manning Melanie A. , Kalberg Wendy O. , Buckley David , Snell Cudore L. , Seedat Soraya , Parry Charles D. H. , Hoyme H. Eugene
Published: December 2023

Background

A variety of maternal risk factors for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) have been described in the literature. Here, we conducted a multivariate analysis of a large array of potential distal influences on FASD risk.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 2515 mothers of first‐grade students whose children were evaluated to assess risk for FASD. Topics included: physical/medical status, childbearing history, demographics, mental health, domestic violence, and trauma. Regression modeling utilized usual level of alcohol consumption by trimester and six selected distal variables (maternal head circumference, body mass index, age at pregnancy, gravidity, marital status, and formal years of education) to differentiate children with FASD from control children.

Results

Despite individual variation in distal maternal risk factors among and within the mothers of children with each of the common diagnoses of FASD, patterns emerged that differentiated risk among mothers of children with FASD from mothers whose children were developing typically. Case‐control comparisons indicate that mothers of children with FASD were significantly smaller physically, had higher gravidity and parity, and experienced more miscarriages and stillbirths, were less likely to be married, reported later pregnancy recognition, more depression, and lower formal educational achievement. They were also less engaged with a formal religion, were less happy, suffered more childhood trauma and interpersonal violence, were more likely to drink alone or with her partner, and drank to deal with anxiety, tension, and to be part of a group. Regression analysis showed that the predictor variables explain 57.5% of the variance in fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) diagnoses, 30.1% of partial FAS (PFAS) diagnoses, and 46.4% of alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND) diagnoses in children with FASD compared to controls. While the proximal variables explained most of the diagnostic variance, six distal variables explained 16.7% (1/6) of the variance in FAS diagnoses, 13.9% (1/7) of PFAS, and 12.1% (1/8) of ARND.

Conclusions

Differences in distal FASD risks were identified. Complex models to quantify risk for FASD hold promise for guiding prevention/intervention.
Effectiveness of culturally tailoring smoking cessation interventions for reducing or quitting combustible tobacco: A systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Leinberger‐Jabari Andrea , Golob Melanie M. , Lindson Nicola , Hartmann‐Boyce Jamie
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

Standard approaches to smoking cessation may not be as effective for certain populations, and tailoring on cultural factors could improve their effectiveness. This systematic review measured the effectiveness of culturally tailoring smoking cessation interventions on quitting or reducing smoking combustible tobacco.

Method

We searched MEDLINE, PsychInfo, Embase and Cochrane Central Register from inception to 21 June 2023 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of community‐based, primary care or web‐based interventions for smoking cessation in adults who smoked tobacco, with measurement of smoking abstinence or reduction at least 3 months following baseline. We examined comparisons between either an intensity‐matched culturally tailored intervention and a non‐tailored intervention or a standard non‐tailored intervention and the same intervention plus a culturally tailored adjunct. We sub‐grouped studies according to the level of tailoring and performed subgroup analyses where appropriate. We assessed risk of bias and certainty of evidence.

Results

We identified 43 studies, 33 of which were meta‐analyzed (n = 12 346 participants). We found moderate certainty evidence, limited by heterogeneity, that intensity‐matched culturally tailored cessation interventions increased quit success when compared with non‐tailored interventions at 3‐month follow‐up or longer (n = 5602, risk ratio [RR] = 1.29 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10, 1.51, I2 = 47%, 14 studies). We found a positive effect of adding a culturally tailored component to a standard intervention compared with the standard intervention alone (n = 6674, RR = 1.47, 95% CI 1.10, 1.95, I2 = 74%, 18 studies), but our certainty in this effect was low due to imprecision and substantial statistical heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Culturally tailored smoking cessation interventions may help more people to quit smoking than a non‐tailored intervention. Adapting or adding cultural components to smoking cessation interventions originally developed for majority populations could improve cessation rates in populations who do not fully identify with majority cultural norms.
Health and economic burden of low back pain and rheumatoid arthritis attributable to smoking in 192 countries and territories in 2019
Authors: Chen Ningjing , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Wong Janet Yuen Ha
Published: December 2023

Background and aims

Smoking is a risk factor for low back pain (LBP) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We aimed to estimate the global health and economic burden of LBP and RA attributable to smoking.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study.

Setting

The study was conducted in 192 countries and territories.

Cases

Prevalent cases of LBP and RA were used, extracted from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study 2019 data repositories.

Measurements

Smoking‐attributable health and economic burden was estimated with the population‐attributable fraction method. Smoking‐attributable prevalence of LBP and RA and health‐care costs were estimated for patients of all ages, whereas years lived with disability (YLDs) and productivity losses due to morbidity were estimated for patients aged 15–84 years. Uncertainty intervals (UIs) of the results were obtained by repeating the analysis with the lower and upper bounds of all input variables.

Findings

Globally, smoking accounted for 84.5 million (UI = 56.7–120.2 million) prevalent cases of LBP, 1.8 million (UI = 0.5–3.4 million) prevalent cases of RA and 11.3 million (UI = 6.2–18.5 million) YLDs, which represented 1.5% of all‐cause YLDs in the working‐age population aged 15–84 years in 2019. Health‐care costs and productivity losses of smoking‐attributable LBP and RA cost the global economy purchasing‐power parity $326.0 billion (UI = $184.0–521.4 billion), representing 0.2% of the global gross domestic product. Specifically, smoking accounted for $65.8 billion (UI = $38.0–101.2 billion) in health‐care costs world‐wide, with more than half [$39.8 billion (UI = $23.1–61.3 billion), 60.6%] borne by the public sector. Smoking also contributed to $260.3 billion (UI = $146.0–420.3 billion) in productivity losses globally. Approximately 60.0% of the global YLDs were observed in middle‐income countries, whereas 84.4% of health‐care costs and 72.7% of productivity losses were borne by high‐income countries.

Conclusions

Globally, in 2019, smoking accounted for more than 11.0 million years lived with disability and purchasing‐power parity $326.0 billion in economic losses due to low back pain and rheumatoid arthritis. Middle‐income countries suffered more morbidity, whereas high‐income countries experienced larger economic losses.
Enhanced cannabis timeline followback (EC‐TLFB): Comprehensive assessment of cannabis use including standard THC units and validation through biological measures
Authors: Petrilli Kat , Lawn Will , Lees Rachel , Mokrysz Claire , Borissova Anya , Ofori Shelan , Trinci Katie , dos Santos Renato , Leitch Harry , Soni Shilpa , Hines Lindsey A. , Lorenzetti Valentina , Curran H. Valerie , Freeman Tom P.
Published: December 2023

Aims

The aims of this study were to present an enhanced cannabis timeline followback (EC‐TLFB) enabling comprehensive assessment of cannabis use measures, including standard tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) units, and to validate these against objectively indexed urinary 11‐nor‐9‐carboxy‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC‐COOH) concentrations.

Design

We used cross‐sectional baseline data from the ‘CannTeen’ observational longitudinal study.

Setting

The study was conducted in London, UK.

Participants

A total of 147 participants who used cannabis regularly took part in the study (n = 71 female, n = 76 male; mean age = 21.90, standard deviation = 5.32).

Measurements

The EC‐TLFB was used to calculate frequency of cannabis use, method of administration, including co‐administration with tobacco, amount of cannabis used (measured with unaided self‐report and also using pictorial aided self‐report) and type of cannabis product (flower, hash) which was used to estimate THC concentration (both from published data on THC concentration of products and analysis of cannabis samples donated by participants in this study). We calculated total weekly standard THC units (i.e. 5 mg THC for all cannabis products and methods of administration) using the EC‐TLFB. The outcome variable for validation of past week EC‐TLFB assessments was creatinine‐normalized carboxy‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC‐COOH) in urine.

Findings

All measures of cannabis exposure included in this analysis were positively correlated with levels of THC‐COOH in urine (r = 0.41–0.52). Standard THC units, calculated with average concentrations of THC in cannabis in the UK and unaided self‐report measures of amount of cannabis used in grams showed the strongest correlation with THC‐COOH in urine (r = 0.52, 95% bias‐corrected and accelerated = 0.26–0.70).

Conclusions

The enhanced cannabis timeline followback (EC‐TLFB) can provide a valid assessment of a comprehensive set of cannabis use measures including standard tetrahydrocannabinol units as well as and traditional TLFB assessments (e.g. frequency of use and grams of cannabis use).
Responsible leadership and its place in the leadership domain: A meaning‐based systematic review
Authors: de Klerk Jeremias J. , Jooste Michelle
Published: December 2023

The emerging field of responsible leadership holds various possibilities for business and society. The wide range of conceptualizations, definitions, and theorizations of RL as a distinctive or unique leadership construct has not previously been investigated through a systematic review. To conceptualize the intrinsic meaning of responsible leadership as a distinct leadership construct, and to bring coherence to the expanding body of literature on responsible leadership, evidence from 162 peer‐reviewed journal articles on responsible leadership, ethical leadership, servant leadership, authentic leadership, transformational leadership, and values‐based leadership have been analyzed through a systematic review. The aim was to synthesize a coherent and intrinsic meaning of responsible leadership in order to identify the place of responsible leadership in the leadership domain. The findings suggest that responsible leadership is not an independent leadership construct, but largely builds on and leverages other leadership theories and approaches. However, the findings indicate that the core meaning of responsible leadership is distinctive in its relational focus on, and accountability for, the active engagement of stakeholders; the balancing of stakeholder interests; the building of social capital; and the assurance of long‐term sustainability of society and the natural environment, beyond responsibilities to internal stakeholders.
Gynaecological organ involvement in females undergoing radical cystectomy: a multicentre study
Authors: Lobo Niyati , Uthayanan Leshanth , Uribe‐Lewis Santiago , Issa Rami , Tay Andrea , Thurairaja Ramesh , Nair Raj , Khan Muhammad Shamim , Kusuma Murthy , Abou Chedid Wissam , Moschonas Dimitrios , Woodhams Simon , Swinn Michael , Patil Krishna , Perry Matthew
Published: December 2023

Objective

To report the incidence of malignancy in gynaecological organs removed during radical cystectomy (RC).

Patients and Methods

A retrospective multicentre study of 1600 RCs at three high‐volume institutions between January 2009 and March 2022 was performed. Pathological findings in gynaecological organs in female RC specimens were reviewed. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify predictors of malignant gynaecological organ involvement (GOI) at time of RC.

Results

Overall, 302 females with a median (interquartile range) age of 68 (61–75) years underwent RC for clinical (c)Ta–T4 bladder cancer. In all, 56 patients (18.5%) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Malignant GOI was seen in 20 patients (6.6%); the most common single sites of GOI were the uterus (five patients) and vaginal wall (four), followed by cervix (one), and ovaries (one). Nine patients had involvement of more than one gynaecological organ. No females had a primary gynaecological malignancy detected incidentally at RC. Patients with GOI were more likely to have cT3/T4 stage (P < 0.001), preoperative hydronephrosis (P = 0.004), lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.002), and squamous cell carcinoma (P = 0.005) than those without GOI. On multivariable analysis, cT4 stage was an independent predictor of malignant GOI (odds ratio 88.3, 95% confidence interval 10.1–1214; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, we present the largest multi‐institutional study examining malignant GOI in females with bladder cancer undergoing RC. The rate of GOI at the time of RC is low and associated with higher clinical stage. In the absence of clinical or radiological evidence of sexual organ involvement, our results do not support their routine removal at the time of RC.
Long‐term outcomes and cost savings of office fulguration of papillary Ta low‐grade bladder cancer
Authors: Vitug Christian , Lajkosz Katherine , Chavarriaga Julian , Llano Andres , Din Shayan , Villegas Eunice , Kuk Cynthia , Chan Amy , Gao Bruce , Hemminki Otto , Kot Dhiral , Misurka Jimmy , van der Kwast Theodorus H. , Wallis Christopher , Jewett Michael A. S. , Soloway Mark S. , Fleshner Neil E. , Kulkarni Girish S. , Zlotta Alexandre R.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To assess whether office‐based fulguration (OF) under local anaesthesia for small, recurrent, pathological Ta low‐grade (LG) non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is an effective alternative to transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT), avoiding the costs and risks of procedure, and anesthesia.

Patients and Methods

Of 521 patients with primary TaLG NMIBC, this retrospective study included 270 patients who underwent OF during follow‐up for recurrent, small, papillary LG‐appearing tumours at a university centre (University Health Network, University of Toronto, Canada). We assessed the cumulative incidence of cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) and disease progression (to MIBC or metastases), as well as possible direct cost savings.

Results

In the 270 patients with recurrent TaLG NMIBC treated with OF, the mean (sd) age was 64.9 (13.3) years, 70.8% were men, and 60.3% had single tumours. The mean (sd, range) number of OF procedures per patient was 3.1 (3.2, 1–22). The median (interquartile range) follow‐up was 10.1 (5.8–16.2) years. Patients also underwent a mean (sd) of 3.6 (3.0) TURBTs during follow‐up in case of numerous or bulkier recurrence. In all, 44.4% of patients never received intravesical therapy. The 10‐year incidence of CSM and progression were 0% and 3.1% (95% confidence interval 0.8–5.4%), respectively. Direct cost savings in Ontario were estimated at $6994.14 (Canadian dollars) per patient over the study follow‐up.

Conclusions

This study supports that properly selected patients with recurrent, apparent TaLG NMIBC can be safely managed with OF under local anaesthesia with occasional TURBT for larger or numerous recurrent tumours, without compromising long‐term oncological outcomes. This approach could generate substantial cost‐saving to healthcare systems, is patient‐friendly, and could be adopted more widely.
Differential effects of external networks and integrative effects of employee integration on innovation ambidexterity
Authors: Nakandala Dilupa , Tho Nguyen Dinh , Lau Henry
Published: December 2023

Innovation ambidexterity is important for firms, but their ability to develop both strategies simultaneously has been conventionally challenged. This challenge is caused by the heterogeneous demands of distinct capabilities and resources of exploratory and exploitative innovations. This paper thus investigates the interplay among internal and external collaborations, ambidextrous innovation, and absorptive capacity in small firms. Using a dataset of 228 Australian firms and applying the PLS‐SEM method, we find that supply chain networks influence only exploitative innovation, and knowledge‐oriented networks influence only exploratory innovation. However, employee engagement directly influences both exploratory and exploitative innovation. Absorptive capacity fully mediates the relationship between employee engagement and exploratory innovation and partially mediates the other relationships. The findings support the argument that balancing exploratory and exploitative innovation in firms is important instead of choosing one strategy over the other. It provides empirical evidence of employee engagement as a common antecedent of ambidextrous innovation and the differential effects of supply chain‐oriented and knowledge‐oriented networks. They will inform innovation strategy decisions of firms primarily on the need to broaden external networks and promote employee engagement in the innovation process and that the benefits of knowledge networks for exploratory innovation are realized fully through absorptive capacity.
SynCAM1 deficiency in the hippocampal parvalbumin interneurons contributes to sevoflurane‐induced cognitive impairment in neonatal rats
Authors: Zhao Ming‐ming , Gu Han‐wen , Pan Wei‐tong , Liu Pan‐miao , Zhu Ting‐ting , Shang Hui‐jie , Jia Min , Yang Jian‐jun
Published: December 2023

Aims

Sevoflurane is widely used for general anesthesia in children. Previous studies reported that multiple neonatal exposures to sevoflurane can induce long‐term cognitive impairment in adolescent rats, but the underlying mechanisms were not defined.

Methods

Postnatal day 6 (P6) to P8 rat pups were exposed to 30% oxygen with or without 3% sevoflurane balanced with air. The Y maze test (YMT) and Morris water maze (MWM) tests were performed in some cohorts from age P35 to assess cognitive functions, and their brain samples were harvested at age P14, 21, 28, 35, and 42 for measurements of various molecular entities and in vivo electrophysiology experiments at age P35.

Results

Sevoflurane exposure resulted in cognitive impairment that was associated with decreased synCAM1 expression in parvalbumin (PV) interneurons, a reduction of PV phenotype, disturbed gamma oscillations, and dendritic spine loss in the hippocampal CA3 region. Enriched environment (EE) increased synCAM1 expression in the PV interneurons and attenuated sevoflurane‐induced cognitive impairment. The synCAM1 overexpression by the adeno‐associated virus vector in the hippocampal CA3 region restored sevoflurane‐induced cognitive impairment, PV phenotype loss, gamma oscillations decrease, and dendritic spine loss.

Conclusion

Our data suggested that neonatal sevoflurane exposure results in cognitive impairment through decreased synCAM1 expression in PV interneurons in the hippocampus.
Treatment of preterm brain injury via gut‐microbiota–metabolite–brain axis
Authors: Li Ling , Liu Tianjing , Shi Yongyan
Published: December 2023

Background

Brain injury in preterm infants potentially disrupts critical structural and functional connective networks in the brain. It is a major cause of neurological sequelae and developmental deficits in preterm infants. Interesting findings suggest that the gut microbiota (GM) and their metabolites contribute to the programming of the central nervous system (CNS) during developmental stages and may exert structural and functional effects throughout the lifespan.

Aim

To summarize the existing knowledge of the potential mechanisms related to immune, endocrine, neural, and blood–brain barrier (BBB) mediated by GM and its metabolites in neural development and function.

Methods

We review the recent literature and included 150 articles to summarize the mechanisms through which GM and their metabolites work on the nervous system. Potential health benefits and challenges of relevant treatments are also discussed.

Results

This review discusses the direct and indirect ways through which the GM may act on the nervous system. Treatment of preterm brain injury with GM or related derivatives, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, dietary interventions, and fecal transplants are also included.

Conclusion

This review summarizes mechanisms underlying microbiota‐gut‐brain axis and novel therapeutic opportunities for neurological sequelae in preterm infants. Optimizing the initial colonization and microbiota development in preterm infants may represent a novel therapy to promote brain development and reduce long‐term sequelae.
A call for early, effective, and scalable parent education programs for high‐conflict separated/divorcing parents: A synthesized perspective from prevention science and family law
Authors: O'Hara Karey L. , Cohen Bruce R.
Published: December 2023

Conflict between parents is stressful for children living in the midst of parental separation or divorce. Although some level of post‐separation/divorce conflict is understandable in an emotionally‐charged separation/divorce, it undermines the extent to which parents can protect their children from short‐ and long‐term problems. In this article, we weave together a synthesized perspective informed by our respective training and experience in prevention science and family law on the role of parent education programs for high‐conflict separating/divorcing parents. To do so, we first describe the research on the effects of interparental conflict on children's outcomes and then discuss current approaches and challenges to reducing these negative effects by offering parent education programs for high‐conflict separating/divorcing parents. Then, we propose and describe a new model for early, effective, and scalable parent education programs with the ultimate goal of protecting children after separation/divorce.
Alpha‐synuclein promotes PRMT5‐mediated H4R3me2s histone methylation by interacting with the BAF complex
Authors: Nakamura Takaaki , Sugeno Naoto , Hasegawa Takafumi , Ikeda Kensho , Yoshida Shun , Ishiyama Shun , Sato Kazuki , Takeda Atsushi , Aoki Masashi
Published: December 2023

α‐Synuclein (αS) is a key molecule in the pathomechanism of Parkinson's disease. Most studies on αS to date have focused on its function in the neuronal cytosol, but its action in the nucleus has also been postulated. Indeed, several lines of evidence indicate that overexpressed αS leads to epigenomic alterations. To clarify the functional role of αS in the nucleus and its pathological significance, HEK293 cells constitutively expressing αS were used to screen for nuclear proteins that interact with αS by nanoscale liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Interactome analysis of the 229 identified nuclear proteins revealed that αS interacts with the BRG1‐associated factor (BAF) complex, a family of multi‐subunit chromatin remodelers important for neurodevelopment, and protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5). Subsequent transcriptomic analysis also suggested a functional link between αS and the BAF complex. Based on these results, we analyzed the effect of αS overexpression on the BAF complex in neuronally differentiated SH‐SY5Y cells and found that induction of αS disturbed the BAF maturation process, leading to a global increase in symmetric demethylation of histone H4 on arginine 3 (H4R3me2s) via enhanced BAF–PRMT5 interaction. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing confirmed accumulated H4R3me2s methylation near the transcription start site of the neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NRCAM) gene, which has roles during neuronal differentiation. Transcriptional analyses confirmed the negative regulation of NRCAM by αS and PRMT5, which was reconfirmed by multiple datasets in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Taken together, these findings suggest that the enhanced binding of αS to the BAF complex and PRMT5 may cooperatively affect the neuronal differentiation process.
Internationalisation in the digital transformation: A scoping review
Authors: Ferreira Santos Luzia
Published: December 2023

Since March 2020, the outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to higher education internationalisation by disrupting long‐standing practices, accelerating the adoption of digital technologies, and pushing universities further into the ‘digital turn’. Nevertheless, it remains unclear to what extent higher education institutions (HEIs) have systematically integrated digitalisation into their broader internationalisation strategies. Therefore, this scoping review aims to trace the evidence in the international scientific literature on the intersections between COVID‐driven digitalisation and HEIs' internationalisation strategies. The focus lies on teaching and learning, cooperation, support structures, and leadership processes. We reviewed 45 studies from an initial selection of 648 sources retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science. Results showed that digitally supported internationalisation strategies are often associated with more cost‐effective, inclusive and sustainable models. Despite ongoing calls for comprehensive approaches, the systematic adoption of virtual internationalisation strategies remains largely a normative subject.
Influence of efavirenz and 8‐hydroxy‐efavirenz plasma levels on cognition and central nervous system side effects
Authors: Ranzani Alice , Castelli Francesco , Di Biagio Antonio , d'Arminio Monforte Antonella , D'Avolio Antonio , Soria Alessandro , Bai Francesca , Focà Emanuele , Taramasso Lucia , Calcagno Andrea , Bresciani Elena , Torsello Antonio , Bonfanti Paolo , Lapadula Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To investigate whether efavirenz (EFV) or 8‐hydroxy‐EFV (8‐OH‐EFV) plasma levels are associated with neurocognitive impairment and central nervous system (CNS) side effects.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis to explore the potential links between EFV/8‐OH‐EFV levels and cognitive performance or CNS‐related side effects in patients screened within a randomized trial involving a switch from EFV to rilpivirine. The Mann–Whitney test was employed to compare drug levels in patients with or without cognitive impairment, depression, anxiety, sleep disorder or CNS symptoms. Additionally, Spearman's test was used to assess correlations between drug levels and test scores.

Results

Among 104 patients, neither EFV nor 8‐OH‐EFV levels were linked to cognitive impairment, although trends towards higher EFV levels were observed in those with impaired executive function (p = 0.055) and language performances (p = 0.021). On the other hand, elevated 8‐OH‐EFV levels, but not EFV levels, were associated with more CNS side effects (222 vs. 151 ng/mL, p = 0.027), depressive symptoms (247 vs. 164 ng/mL, p = 0.067) and sleep impairment (247 vs. 164 ng/mL, p = 0.078). Consistently, a trend towards a correlation between EFV levels and lower z‐scores in executive function and motor function was observed, while 8‐OH‐EFV levels, but not EFV levels, were directly correlated with symptom scores.

Conclusions

Higher levels of 8‐OH‐EFV were associated with CNS side effects, while EFV levels were only marginally associated with cognitive performance, thus suggesting that EFV and its metabolite may act differently in determining detrimental neurological effects.
Substitution of maize with sorghum and millets in traditional processing of Mahewu, a non‐alcoholic fermented cereal beverage
Authors: Kudita Sakile , Schoustra Sijmen , Mubaiwa Juliet , Smid Eddy J. , Linnemann Anita R.
Published: December 2023

There is growing interest in Sub‐Saharan Africa for substituting maize with climate‐smart crops like sorghum and millets in local food processing. We conducted a survey to explore current variations in processing and consumption practices for Mahewu, a traditionally fermented cereal beverage from Zimbabwe. Processing involved cooking a cereal porridge, adding cereal flour or malt as a starter ingredient, and fermenting for 12–48 h. Ingredient availability was the main driver for porridge ingredient choice (42% of respondents) with the most preferred being maize (55% of respondents), pearl millet (22%) and sorghum (9%). Final product taste had the most influence on starter ingredient choice, with most respondents preferring pearl millet flour (23%), finger millet malt (22%), wheat flour (17%), and sorghum malt (13%). Our study proves that maize can be replaced with sorghum and millet in Mahewu processing, thus increasing the climate‐resilience of future food systems, and demonstrates that traditional practices harbour clues for adapting current practices.
Omega‐3 fatty acids and cardiovascular prevention: is the jury still out?
Authors: Hamilton‐Craig Christian , Kostner Karam , Colquhoun David , Nicholls Stephen J
Published: December 2023

The cardiovascular benefits of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (O3FA) remain a point of confusion in clinical medicine. Recently two large, randomised trials were published with discordant findings regarding the overall benefits of omega‐3 supplementation, resulting in unnecessary confusion and therapeutic nihilism. Epidemiological studies clearly show high intake of fish and measured O3FA (mainly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)) in tissues are inversely associated with cardiovascular events and total mortality. These fatty acids are ‘essential’ and depend almost entirely on intake with very little production from within the body. The efficacy of supplementation depends on background tissue levels, in contradistinction to drug therapy. Insufficient dosing of omega‐3 supplementation using less than 1 g/day and lack of titration to target by failing to measure O3FA levels in the blood may explain these conflicting trial outcomes. We review the current evidence regarding O3FA supplementation and cardiovascular outcomes, describe possible reasons for the discrepant results in the literature including recent controversial data around the mineral oil comparator used in REDUCE‐IT and discuss the potential use of the omega‐3 index to guide management and optimise supplementation in those at greatest risk.
Clinical nurse specialists in nutrition: A systematic review of roles and clinical experiences
Authors: Mancin Stefano , Pipitone Veronica , Testori Angelica , Ferrante Sergio , Soekeland Fanny , Sguanci Marco , Mazzoleni Beatrice
Published: December 2023

Background/scope

The Clinical Nurse Specialist in Nutrition is a professional capable of providing specialist clinical assistance and leadership‐related clinical nutrition. To date, although their role has already been identified, there is still uncertainty about how this figure can actually fit into the various global health systems. The purpose of this review is to clarify and define the role of this professional aimed at analysing clinical experiences and data from nutrition scientific societies.

Methodology

A systematic literature review was conducted using the Prisma Statement in the Cochrane Library databases and subsequently in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science. In addition, a manual search of studies published in Google Scholar was conducted for the analysis of ‘grey literature’. Out of 3,320 identified records, 20 studies were included in the present review. [Correction added on 06 June 2024, after first online publication: The preceding sentence has been corrected from “Out of 2,348 identified records, 21 studies were included in the present review.” to “Out of 3,320 identified records, 20 studies were included in the present review” in this version.]

Results

The development of specific training, certification and qualification protection courses is contributing to the development of this professional in various hospital and community clinical contexts. The clinical experiences identified have shown that this figure is able to provide specialist assistance by offering high levels of safety, efficacy and quality of the care provided.

Conclusions/ implications for nursing

The implementation of nurse nutrition specialist, to date, is still limited at the global level, and training programmes coordinated between scientific societies and nursing universities could be the basis for the development of this specialization in countries where today this figure is not yet present.
Causal relationship between sleep traits and cognitive impairment: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Qing , Xu Shihan , Liu Fenglan , Liu Yanfei , Chen Keji , Huang Luqi , Xu Fengqin , Liu Yue
Published: December 2023

Objective

Observational studies had demonstrated a link between sleep disturbances and cognitive decline. Here, we aimed to investigate the causal association between genetically predicted sleep traits and cognitive impairment using Mendelian randomization (MR).

Methods

Using strict criteria, we selected genetic variants from European ancestry Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) from the Sleep Disorders Knowledge Portal and UK Biobank as instrumental variables for several sleep traits, including insomnia, sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, daytime napping, and chronotype. Summary statistics related to cognitive impairment were derived from five different GWAS, including the Social Science Genetic Association Consortium. The role of self‐reported sleep trait phenotypes in the etiology of cognitive impairment was explored using inverse‐variance weighted (IVW) tests, MR‐Egger tests, and weighted medians, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure robustness.

Results

In the main IVW analysis, sleep duration (reaction time: β = –0.05, 95% CI –0.07 to –0.04, p = 1.93×10−12), daytime sleepiness (average cortical thickness: β = –0.12, 95% CI –0.22 to –0.02, p = 0.023), and daytime napping (fluid intelligence: β = –0.47, 95% CI –0.87 to –0.07, p = 0.021; hippocampal volume in Alzheimer's disease: β = –0.99, 95% CI –1.64 to –0.35, p = 0.002) were significantly negatively correlated with cognitive performance. However, any effects of insomnia and chronotype on cognitive impairment were not determined.

Conclusions

Our findings highlighted that focusing on sleep behaviors or distinct sleep patterns‐particularly sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, and daytime napping, was a promising approach for preventing cognitive impairment. This study also shed light on risk factors for and potential early markers of cognitive impairment risk factors.
Could bulk fill glass hybrid restorative materials replace composite resins in treating permanent teeth? A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Uyumaz Fatma Üzümcü , Abaklı İnci Merve , Özer Hazal
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aims to compare the clinical and radiographic efficacy of Equia system bulk fill glass hybrid material with composite resins in the permanent restoration of pediatric patients' permanent teeth.

Materials and Methods

The study included 44 pediatric patients aged 8–16 who applied to Necmettin Erbakan University Pediatric Dentistry Department. The groups were formed as symmetrical teeth in the same patient using the split‐mouth design. The study included class I caries lesions of 144 permanent teeth. Group 1 was restored with the Equia system bulk fill glass hybrid material (Equia Forte HT + Equia Forte Coat [GC, Co, Tokyo, Japan]) (n = 72) and Group 2 with the Charisma Smart universal composite resin (Kulzer, Gmbh, Hanau, Germany) + Clearfil SE Bond (Kuraray, Noritake, Sakazu, Okayama) (n = 72). Evaluations were performed clinically and radiographically by two physicians in 2nd week, 3rd month, 6th month, and 12th month and the results were recorded. Clinical evaluation was carried out using modified‐USPHS criteria. Obtained data were statistically analyzed using Kendall's W test and Cochran's Q test for the comparison within the group, and the Chi‐square test for the comparison between groups.

Results

Among the materials utilized in the study, there was no statistically significant difference in marginal adaptation, marginal discoloration, retention, anatomical form, postoperative sensitivity, and secondary caries according (p > 0.05). Group 2 outperformed statistically significant Group 1 in terms of color match in all periods (p < 0.05). While there was no statistically significant difference in surface structure between the groups in 2nd week and 3rd month (p > 0.05), there was a statistically substantial difference in 6th, and 12th months (p < 0.05). No secondary caries or periapical lesions were found in any restorations during radiographic evaluation.

Conclusion

After a year, the clinical performance of both Equia and composite resins was equivalent and successful in the majority of the measures against which they were evaluated.

Clinical Significance

Based on the results of the research, Equia system bulk fill glass hybrid restorations are considered a viable alternative to composite resins in class I permanent teeth restorations.
The fertility tracks of pollen tube in the ovary of Solanum nigrum by three‐dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Ming Xing , Chen Xia , Ma Hongyu , Li Chuang , Zhao Zijian , Li Jinying , Du Yingda
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we present an enhanced method for automatically capturing a large number of consecutive paraffin sections using a microscope. Leveraging these microstructural images, we employed three‐dimensional visualisation and reconstruction techniques to investigate the dispersal growth process of pollen tube bundles upon entering the ovary of Solanum nigrum. Additionally, we explored their behaviour within different ovules and examined the relationship between the germination rate of seeds and the fertilisation process. Our findings reveal that despite the abundance of Solanum nigrum seeds, only a fraction of them is capable of successful germination. The germination rate of seeds is closely related to whether fertilisation of the ovules and pollen tubes is completed. Due to the limited number of pollen tubes entering the ovary, only a portion of the ovules can be fertilised. The proportion of fertilised ovules positively correlates with the germination rate of the seeds. Through three‐dimensional reconstruction, we observed a phenomenon of proximity during the pollination process, wherein ovules closer to the pollen tube bundles are more likely to be fertilised. Furthermore, fertilised ovules exhibited significant changes in morphology and embryo sac structure. The number of fertilised ovules directly impacts the germination rate of wild Solanum nigrum seeds. Although all Solanum nigrum ovules have the potential to develop into seeds, most seeds originating from unfertilised ovules are unable to germinate normally, resulting in an incomplete germination rate of seeds and preventing it from reaching 100%.
Hindlimb and pelvic anatomy of Caiman yacare (Archosauria, Pseudosuchia): Myology and osteological correlates with emphasis on lower leg and autopodial musculature
Authors: Pereyra Maria Eugenia , Cerroni Mauricio A. , Lecuona Agustina , Bona Paula , Fernández Dumont M. Lucila , Otero Alejandro
Published: December 2023

The anatomy of the archosaurian pelvis and hindlimb has adopted a diversity of successful configurations allowing a wide range of postures during the evolution of the group (e.g., erect, sprawling). For this reason, thorough studies of the structure and function of the pelvic and hindlimb musculature of crocodylians are required and provide the possibility to expand their implications for the evolution of archosaurian locomotion, as well as to identify potential new characters based on muscles and their bony correlates. In this study, we give a detailed description of the pelvic and hindlimb musculature of the South American alligator Caiman yacare, providing comprehensive novel information regarding lower limb and autopodial muscles. Particularly for the pedal muscles, we propose a new classification for the dorsal and ventral muscles of the autopodium based on the organisation of these muscles in successive layers. We have studied the myology in a global background in which we have compared the Caiman yacare musculature with other crocodylians. In this sense, differences in the arrangement of m. flexor tibialis internus 1, m. flexor tibialis externus, m. iliofibularis, mm. puboischiofemorales internii 1 and 2, between Ca. yacare and other crocodylians were found. We also discuss the muscle attachments that have different bony correlates among the crocodylian species and their morphological variation. Most of the correlates did not exhibit great variation among the species compared. The majority of the recognised correlates were identified in the pelvic girdle; additionally, some bony correlates associated with the pedal muscles are highlighted here for the first time. This research provides a wide framework for future studies on comparative anatomy and functional morphology, which could contribute to improving the character definition used in phylogenetic analyses and to understand the patterns of musculoskeletal hindlimb evolution.