bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The antioxidant N‐acetyl cysteine inhibits cytokine and prostaglandin release in human fetal membranes stimulated ex vivo with lipoteichoic acid or live group B streptococcus
Authors: Park Hae‐Ryung , Harris Sean M. , Boldenow Erica , Aronoff David M. , Rea Meaghan , Xi Chuanwu , Loch‐Caruso Rita
Published: January 2024

Backgrounds

Infection during pregnancy is a significant public health concern due to the increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. Group B Streptococcus or Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) stands out as a major bacterial cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. We aimed to explore the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress pathways in pro‐inflammatory responses within human fetal membrane tissue, the target tissue of acute bacterial chorioamnionitis.

Methods

We reanalyzed transcriptomic data from fetal membrane explants inoculated with GBS to assess the impact of GBS on oxidative stress and ROS genes/pathways. We conducted pathway enrichment analysis of transcriptomic data using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), a web‐based functional annotation/pathway enrichment tool. Subsequently, we conducted ex vivo experiments to test the hypothesis that antioxidant treatment could inhibit pathogen‐stimulated inflammatory responses in fetal membranes.

Results

Using DAVID analysis, we found significant enrichment of pathways related to oxidative stress or ROS in GBS‐inoculated human fetal membranes, for example, “Response to Oxidative Stress” (FDR = 0.02) and “Positive Regulation of Reactive Oxygen Species Metabolic Process” (FDR = 2.6*10−4). There were 31 significantly changed genes associated with these pathways, most of which were upregulated after GBS inoculation. In ex vivo experiments with choriodecidual membrane explants, our study showed that co‐treatment with N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) effectively suppressed the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α) and prostaglandin PGE2, compared to GBS‐treated explants (p < .05 compared to GBS‐treated samples without NAC co‐treatment). Furthermore, NAC treatment inhibited the release of cytokines and PGE2 stimulated by lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in whole membrane explants (p < .05 compared to LTA or LPS‐treated samples without NAC co‐treatment).

Conclusions

Our study sheds light on the potential roles of ROS in governing the innate immune response to GBS infection, offering insights for developing strategies to mitigate GBS‐related adverse outcomes.
Running on Empty: Depletion and Social Reproduction in Myanmar and Sri Lanka
Authors: Lingham Jayanthi Thiyaga , Johnston Melissa
Published: January 2024

A social reproduction framework that uses depletion reveals how multiple crises intersect. We deploy this framework to examine the relationship between depletion and conflict. Drawing on research undertaken in Myanmar and Sri Lanka in early 2020, we argue that the weight of social reproduction under conflict conditions increases women's depletion. Our findings showed, however, that increased depletion was not due primarily to increased social reproductive labour but because of the intervening effects of conflict and violence against women. These findings add utility to the concept of depletion. We argue that understanding the depth of depletion in conflict requires more than a mathematical calculation. We also contend that depletion of social reproductive resources is a tactic of conflict. Therefore, to understand depletion through social reproduction in conflict, we must expand the concept to include the depletion of social reproduction. Lastly, we show that violence against women is a significant factor in women's depletion.
Editorial: Can we predict or not predict response to hypnotherapy? That is the question. Authors' reply
Authors: Vasant Dipesh H. , Whorwell Peter J.
Published: January 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Devenney et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17790 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17812
Letter: Irritable bowel syndrome and antibiotics—Authors' reply
Authors: Staller Kyle , Ludvigsson Jonas F.
Published: January 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Staller et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17736 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17837
Editorial: How does the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma change over time in patients with a hepatitis C cure? Authors' reply
Authors: Vutien Philip , Kim Nicole J. , Moon Andrew M. , Johnson Kay M. , Berry Kristin , Green Pamela K. , Ioannou George N.
Published: January 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Vutien et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17802 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17818
Letter: Baseline age on antiviral treatment may significantly influence the clinical response of children with chronic hepatitis B ‐ authors' reply
Authors: OuYang WenXian , Li ShuangJie , Peng Songxu
Published: January 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Wu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17667 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17830
Duterte's transactionalist foreign policy and the COVID‐19 crisis in the Philippines
Authors: Candelaria John Lee , Talamayan Fernan
Published: January 2024

This article contributes a new layer to the existing analyses of Duterte's foreign policy by arguing that he epitomized a transactionalist approach to Philippine foreign policy. This approach favored bilateral to multilateral relations, focused on short‐term wins rather than long‐term foresight, adhered to a zero‐sum worldview, rejected value‐based policymaking, and did not follow a grand strategy. Most of these qualities have been apparent in Duterte's relationship with China, Russia, and the United States but became even more prominent during the COVID‐19 crisis. The analysis revealed that Duterte's transactionalist foreign policy rhymed with his domestic politics, and his obsession with winning now resulted in contradictions in his foreign policy, indicating a lack of a grand strategy that informed his decision‐making. This article contributes a real‐world case of a transactionalist foreign policy while considering whether it would persist in future policymaking in the Philippines.
miRNA levels are associated with body mass index in endometrial cancer and may have implications for therapy
Authors: Ravegnini Gloria , Gorini Francesca , Coada Camelia Alexandra , De Leo Antonio , de Biase Dario , Di Costanzo Stella , De Crescenzo Eugenia , Coschina Emma , Monesmith Sarah , Bernante Paolo , Garelli Silvia , Balsamo Francesca , Hrelia Patrizia , De Iaco Pierandrea , Angelini Sabrina , Perrone Anna Myriam
Published: January 2024

Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most prevalent gynecological cancer in high‐income countries. Its incidence is skyrocketing due to the increase in risk factors such as obesity, which represents a true pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate microRNA (miRNA) expression in obesity‐related EC to identify potential associations between this specific cancer type and obesity. miRNA levels were analyzed in 84 EC patients stratified based on body mass index (BMI; ≥30 or <30) and nine noncancer women with obesity. The data were further tested in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort, including 384 EC patients, 235 with BMI ≥30 and 149 with BMI <30. Prediction of miRNA targets and analysis of their expression were also performed to identify the potential epigenetic networks involved in obesity modulation. In the EC cohort, BMI ≥30 was significantly associated with 11 deregulated miRNAs. The topmost deregulated miRNAs were first analyzed in 84 EC samples by single miRNA assay and then tested in the TCGA dataset. This independent validation provided further confirmation about the significant difference of three miRNAs (miR‐199a‐5p, miR‐449a, miR‐449b‐5p) in normal‐weight EC patients versus EC patients with obesity, resulting significantly higher expressed in the latter. Moreover, the three miRNAs were significantly correlated with grade, histological type, and overall survival. Analysis of their target genes revealed that these miRNAs may regulate obesity‐related pathways. In conclusion, we identified specific miRNAs associated with BMI that are potentially involved in modulating obesity‐related pathways and that may provide novel implications for the clinical management of obese EC patients.
Introgression and incomplete lineage sorting blurred phylogenetic relationships across the genomes of sclerophyllous oaks from southwest China
Authors: Ma Xiang‐Guang , Ren Yue‐Bo , Sun Hang
Published: January 2024

Resolving evolutionary relationships among closely related species with interspecific gene flow is challenging. Genome‐scale data provide opportunities to clarify complex evolutionary relationships in closely related species and to observe variations in species relationships across the genomes of such species. The Himalayan–Hengduan subalpine oaks have a nearly completely sympatric distribution in southwest China and probably constitute a syngameon. In this study, we mapped resequencing data from different species in this group to the Quercus aquifolioides reference genome to obtain a high‐quality filtered single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) dataset. We also assembled their plastomes. We reconstructed their phylogenetic relationships, explored the level and pattern of introgression among these species and investigated gene tree variation in the genomes of these species using sliding windows. The same or closely related plastomes were found to be shared extensively among different species within a specific geographical area. Phylogenomic analyses of genome‐wide SNP data found that most oaks in the Himalayan–Hengduan subalpine clade showed genetic coherence, but several species were found to be connected by introgression. The gene trees obtained using sliding windows showed that the phylogenetic relationships in the genomes of oaks are highly heterogeneous and therefore highly obscured. Our study found that all the oaks of the Himalayan–Hengduan subalpine clade from southwest China form a syngameon. The obscured phylogenetic relationships observed empirically across the genome are best explained by interspecific gene flow in conjunction with incomplete lineage sorting.
Scientists Invent New Hypotheses, Do Brains?
Authors: Fresco Nir , Elber‐Dorozko Lotem
Published: January 2024

How are new Bayesian hypotheses generated within the framework of predictive processing? This explanatory framework purports to provide a unified, systematic explanation of cognition by appealing to Bayes rule and hierarchical Bayesian machinery alone. Given that the generation of new hypotheses is fundamental to Bayesian inference, the predictive processing framework faces an important challenge in this regard. By examining several cognitive‐level and neurobiological architecture‐inspired models of hypothesis generation, we argue that there is an essential difference between the two types of models. Cognitive‐level models do not specify how they can be implemented in brains and include structures and assumptions that are external to the predictive processing framework. By contrast, neurobiological architecture‐inspired models, which aim to better resemble brain processes, fail to explain important capacities of cognition, such as categorization and few‐shot learning. The “scaling‐up” challenge for proponents of predictive processing is to explain the relationship between these two types of models using only the theoretical and conceptual machinery of Bayesian inference.
Risankizumab: Mechanism of action, clinical and translational science
Authors: Pang Yinuo , D'Cunha Ronilda , Winzenborg Insa , Veldman Geertruida , Pivorunas Valerie , Wallace Kori
Published: January 2024

Risankizumab is a high‐affinity neutralizing anti‐interleukin (IL)‐23 monoclonal antibody marketed in over 40 countries across the globe to treat several inflammatory diseases, such as plaque psoriasis (PsO), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and Crohn's disease (CD). This paper reviews the regulatory approval, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics (PKs)/pharmacodynamics, immunogenicity, and clinical efficacy and safety data for risankizumab, focusing on the three main approved indications. Risankizumab binds to the p19 subunit of IL‐23 and inhibits IL‐23 from interacting with the IL‐23 receptor and subsequent signaling. Biomarker data obtained following treatment with risankizumab in multiple indications provided supportive evidence for downstream blockade of IL‐23 signaling associated with disease pathology. The PKs of risankizumab is linear and time‐independent, consistent with typical IgG1 monoclonal antibodies, across all evaluated indications. Risankizumab exhibited positive exposure‐response relationships for efficacy with no apparent exposure‐dependent worsening in safety. Immunogenicity to risankizumab had no major clinical consequences for either efficacy or safety. Efficacy and safety of risankizumab have been established in PsO, PsA, and CD in the pivotal clinical trials where superior benefit/risk profiles were demonstrated compared to placebo and/or active comparators. Moreover, safety evaluations in open‐label extension studies following long‐term treatment with risankizumab showed stable and favorable safety profiles consistent with shorter‐term studies. These data formed the foundation for risankizumab's marketing approvals to treat multiple inflammatory diseases across the globe.
Pooled analysis of routine safety parameters observed in healthy participants at baseline and following placebo administration in early phase clinical studies
Authors: Duncan Kelly E. , Li Runcheng , Maganti Lata , Kumar Amit , Stoch S. Aubrey , Walford Geoffrey A.
Published: January 2024

Phase I trials inform on the initial safety profile of a new molecule and impact whether further development is pursued or not. Understanding the effect of non‐pharmacological factors on the variability of routine safety parameters could improve decision making in these early clinical trials, helping to separate signals related to the new molecule from background “noise.” To understand the impact of non‐pharmacological factors on routine safety parameters, we evaluated pooled safety data from over 1000 healthy participants treated with placebo in phase I trials between 2009 and 2018. The phase I participants were predominantly men, less than or equal to 50 years, White, and non‐Hispanic; and approximately an equal proportion had body mass index in the normal and overweight/obese range. Following administration of placebo, vital signs, electrocardiogram, and laboratory parameters remained near predose baseline values. Large changes from baseline were observed for many safety parameters, but these occurred in a relatively small number of participants. At least one adverse event (AE) occurred in 49.7% of participants receiving placebo in single ascending dose (SAD) studies and in 72.4% of participants receiving placebo in multiple ascending dose (MAD) studies, with headache being the most commonly reported AE (18.7% in SAD and 28.3% in MAD studies). Overall, these analyses are consistent with non‐pharmacological factors having a small impact on routine safety parameters in a phase I trial. The provided supplemental data may be used to contextualize the magnitude and frequency of abnormal safety values and AEs observed in phase I trials.
Resident training in interventional pathology: Ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration and rapid on site evaluation—5 years of teaching experience in a single university hospital
Authors: Torres‐Rivas Héctor‐Enrique , Fernández Fernández Luis Manuel , González Gutiérrez María de la Paz , Berríos Hernández Mario Luis , Pérez Fontán José Fernando , Chandra Ashish , Caputo Alessandro , Dávila Lemos Ana Belén , Villar Zarra Karen
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Despite the established role of the interventional pathologist, their diagnostic performance is difficult to establish. At least in Spain training of pathology residents in ultrasound‐guided interventional procedures for specimen collection is limited or absent in most institutions. We present our teaching experience in the instruction of ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) to pathology residents in a tertiary‐level hospital.

Materials and Methods

The training of pathology residents who rotated through the interventional unit of the pathology department and the application of ultrasound‐guided FNA and rapid on‐site evaluation (U‐ROSE) was documented over 5 years. The training period was broken down into learning phases and included the number of ultrasound‐guided FNA performed, anatomical location, and their diagnostic performance, among other aspects.

Results

Nineteen (19) pathology residents were trained in U‐ROSE, and performed a total of 4003 procedures, with a mean of 211 per resident. In 53% of cases only one pass was required for an adequated sample. The specimen was diagnostic in more than 97% of cases. The most frequently sampled anatomical sites were the thyroid gland (n = 2347), followed by lymph node (n = 667), soft tissues (n = 663) and salivary glands (n = 322).

Conclusion

The results support the training programme followed by pathology residents in learning U‐ROSE, which is essential to lay the foundations for the future interventional pathologist.
Act generously when others do so: Majority influence on young children's sharing behavior
Authors: Chai Qiao , Yin Jun , Shen Mowei , He Jie
Published: January 2024

Children's sharing behavior is profoundly shaped by social norms within their society, and they can learn these norms by directly observing how most others share in their immediate environment. Here we systematically investigated the impact of majority influence on the sharing behavior of young Chinese children through three studies (N = 336, 168 girls). Four‐ and 6‐year‐olds were allowed to choose 10 favorite stickers and had an opportunity to engage in anonymous sharing. Before making the sharing decision, children were assigned to one of two conditions: watching a video in which three peers all shared 8 out of 10 stickers (i.e., the majority sharing condition) or making their decisions without watching the video (i.e., the control condition). Results showed that both the 4‐ and 6‐year‐old children shared more stickers in the majority sharing condition than in the control condition (Studies 1 & 2). Moreover, the influence of the majority had a stronger effect compared to the influence of a single role model. Children shared more stickers after observing three peers sharing, compared to watching one peer sharing three times (Study 2). Furthermore, children were less likely to copy the majority's non‐sharing behavior when it came to giving away stickers without prosocial outcomes, which was particularly evident among 4‐year‐olds (Study 3). The results reveal that majority influence uniquely shapes children's sharing behavior and that children selectively follow the majority based on whether the behavior exhibits prosocial attributes. A video abstract of this article can be viewed at https://youtu.be/8qNNhf9754I?si=7YfpaFpcD_IjlXjJ

Research Highlights

Observing a majority of three peers’ unanimous generous sharing promoted sharing behavior in both 4‐ and 6‐year‐olds.

The influence of three peers on children's sharing was stronger than that of one peer sharing three times.

Four‐year‐olds, but not 6‐year‐olds, did not copy the non‐sharing behavior of the majority as it did not lead to prosocial outcomes.
The role of firm‐to‐firm relationships in exporter dynamics
Authors: Rigo Davide
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the role of firm‐to‐firm relationships in export market dynamics, documenting the following stylized facts for French exporters. First, exporters grow in a foreign market by expanding their customer base; the average French exporter doubles its number of buyers after 8 years. Second, sales to existing customers remain the predominant source of growth in a foreign market, with long‐lasting relationships contributing to most export values. Third, as a mechanism driving firms' growth in a relationship, prices fall as a relationship ages. Fourth, I exploit the Brexit referendum as a quasi‐natural experiment to examine how firm‐to‐firm relationships adjust in response to changes in market access. I find that French exporters with long‐lasting relationships in the UK are less affected by the referendum shock and exhibit higher exchange rate pass‐through. Overall, these findings indicate that long‐lasting relationships represent a crucial margin for export market growth and in shielding exporters from changing market conditions.
A rare case of severe tricuspid regurgitation caused by TIPS stent migrating into the right atrium
Authors: Seçkin Göbüt Özden , Ünlü Serkan , Özgül Seçkin , Moral Kenan
Published: January 2024

Background

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a common, effective and reliable treatment modality for portal hypertension. Migration of the TIPS stent into the right atrium is a rare and fatal complication.

Case presentation

We report a case of severe tricuspid regurgitation caused by a stent migrating into the right atrium in a patient hospitalized with refractory ascites due to cirrhosis.

Discussion

In this case, it is noteworthy that secondary stenting, which is necessary especially in cases of occlusion, significantly increases the risk of migration.

Conclusion

Although a rare complication, intracardiac stent migration should be considered in patients with a history of TIPS in the presence of a new heart murmur and signs of arrhythmia.
Remote tracking unveils intercontinental movements of nomadic Short‐eared Owls (Asio flammeus) with implications for resource tracking by irruptive specialist predators
Authors: Calladine John , Hallgrimsson Gunnar Thor , Morrison Neil , Southall Chris , Gunnarsson Hallgrimur , Jubete Fernando , Sergio Fabrizio , Mougeot François
Published: January 2024

Nomadic species can rely on unpredictable resources making them challenging to understand and, consequently, to conserve. Here, we present knowledge advancement for a nomadic predator, the Short‐eared Owl Asio flammeus, by tracking individuals from a wide latitudinal range inclusive of most breeding populations in western Europe (Iceland, Scotland and Spain). Tracked owls showed pronounced plasticity in both inter‐ and intra‐individual behaviour. Distances between sequential breeding areas of individual owls ranged from 41 to 4216 km, with similar low fidelity to areas used at other times of year. Owls spent most (> 60%) of their time occupying home‐ranges (including breeding) and least (< 10%) undertaking long‐distance movements. The propensity for long‐distance movements was least for the most geographically isolated population, Iceland. Annual survival rates of 47% were lower than expected for an owl of comparable body mass with mortality concentrated during long‐distance displacements and immediately after breeding. Extensive, nomadic travel to find areas where large broods might be reared may incur carry‐over costs that lower survival. Conservation planning and assessment for nomadic species and their habitats must acknowledge the uncertainties associated with nomadism at scales from local to international.
Prediction of fatigue limit stress in C/SiC composites: Effect of stochastic load spectrum
Authors: Li Longbiao
Published: January 2024

Under cyclic‐fatigue loading, stochastic loading may occur and affect the fatigue limit stress (FLS) in C/SiC composites. In this paper, the FLSs in different C/SiC composites were predicted considering stochastic loading spectrums. Damage mechanisms of interface wear and fibers failure were considered in the global load sharing criterion to determine the fracture life and fiber's failure probability in three different stochastic loading spectrums, that is, constant, increasing and decreasing stochastic stress spectrum. Experimental FLS and fatigue life degradation rate were predicted using the developed micromechanical approach, and the effect of cyclic duration under stochastic spectrums on the FLS was analyzed. Relationships among the FLS, life degradation rate, stochastic spectrum, and cyclic duration were established.
Clinical characteristics of the well‐defined upper eyelid vascular network pattern in patients with rosacea
Authors: Peng Yiran , Wang Ben , Mao Mengping , Li Ji , Shi Wei , Zhao Huimin , Huang Ziyang , Zhao Zhixiang , Huang Chuchu , Jian Dan
Published: January 2024

Background

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. The diagnosis is based on the symptoms and physical signs, which still lacks objective laboratory tests or imaging tests.

Objectives

To propose and evaluate the upper eyelid network pattern in rosacea.

Methods

Participants included patients diagnosed with rosacea, other facial erythematous skin diseases, and normal controls, all of whom underwent full‐face imaging utilizing the VISIA® system software. According to these images, researchers evaluated the condition of the upper eyelid vascular network, developed the grading scale and then compared the difference of distribution in the three groups.

Results

The occurrence rate of upper eyelid vascular network in rosacea was significantly higher than that in other facial erythematous skin diseases (84.3 vs. 32.0%, P < 0.001) and normal controls (84.3 vs. 28.0%, P < 0.001). The upper eyelid vascular network pattern was proposed (none [no clearly reticular vessels], mild [10–50% area of reticular vessels], moderate‐to‐severe [>50% area of reticular vessels]). Moderate‐to‐severe grade was defined as well‐defined upper eyelid vascular network pattern, which was specific to patients with rosacea (rosacea vs. other facial erythematous skin diseases, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 5.814, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.899–8.670) (rosacea vs. heathy controls, aOR = 12.628, 95% CI: 8.334–19.112). The severity of the well‐defined pattern had no significant association with age, duration, and phenotypes of rosacea (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The well‐defined upper eyelid vascular network pattern specifically appeared in patients with rosacea, which could be a possible clue to the diagnosis of rosacea.
Comparison of the effect of hot and cold compresses on post‐operative urinary retention in older patients: A clinical trial study
Authors: Mirzaei Tayebeh , Roudbari Farkhondeh , Ravari Ali , Mirzaei Sakineh , Hassanshahi Elham
Published: January 2024

Urinary retention is a common post‐operative complication in the older patients. The use of hot and cold compresses can be considered a safe and non‐invasive method to relieve urinary retention. In this study, the effects of these two methods are compared. In this randomised clinical trial study, 52 older patients with urinary retention underwent general surgery in two groups underwent local intervention of hot and cold water compresses. After the intervention, success in relieving retention and the exact duration of urine flow were measured and recorded. The mean age of the hot compress group was 69.38 ± 7.82 and the cold compress group was 68.96 ± 7.28 years and the majority of both groups were male. The mean duration of post‐operative urinary retention was not significantly different between the two groups. Urinary retention was eliminated in 46.2% of patients in the hot compress group and 53.8% in the cold compress group without the need for catheterization. This difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.782). The duration of urination after compression did not show a statistically significant difference between the two groups. Due to very little research on the use of cold compresses in relieving urinary retention, the findings of this study showed that the success rate of cold compresses in relieving retention was slightly higher than hot compresses. Therefore, this type of compress can also be used to relieve retention.
Setting new priorities for nursing research: The updated Swiss Nursing Research Agenda—a systematic, participative approach
Authors: Stadtmann Manuel P. , Bischofberger Iren , Balice‐Bourgois Colette , Bianchi Monica , Burr Christian , Fierz Katharina , de Goumoëns Véronique , Kocher Agnes , Kunz Stefan , Naef Rahel , Bachmann Annie Oulevey , Schubert Maria , Schwendimann René , Simon Michael , Waldboth Veronika , Zanon‐Di Nardo Dave , Nicca Dunja , Zigan Nicole
Published: January 2024

Aim

To identify current key areas for nursing research in Switzerland, we revised the Swiss Research Agenda for Nursing (SRAN) initially published in 2008.

Background

By developing a research agenda, nursing researchers internationally prioritize and cluster relevant topics within the research community. The process should be collaborative and systematic to provide credible information for decisionmakers in health care research, policy, and practice.

Sources of Evidence

After a participative, systematic, and critical evaluation within and outside of the Swiss Association for Nursing Science, the updated SRAN 2019–2029 defines four research priorities (new models of care, nursing care interventions, work and care environment, and quality of care and patient safety) and four transversal themes (organization of research, research methodologies, research in health care policy and public health perspectives).

Conclusion

Adding to other national nursing research agendas, the categories are organized in a framework of key research priorities and transversal themes. They relate to the importance of global and local foci of research as well as challenges in health care services and policy systems. The agenda is an important prerequisite for enhancing the influence of nursing research in Switzerland and provides guidance for the next decade.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The revised agenda ensures that research projects target key knowledge gaps and the discipline's core questions in respective countries.

Implications for Health Policy

Nursing research should inform and influence health policy on all institutional and political levels. Therefore, the integration of public health perspectives in research is one of the most important new aspects of SRAN 2019–2029.
Uncertainty in surrogate decision‐making about end‐of‐life care for people with dementia: An integrative review
Authors: Kim Hyejin , Cho Jeonghyun , Shin Sungmin , Kim Sang Suk
Published: January 2024

Aim

To describe uncertainty in surrogate decision‐making regarding end‐of‐life care for people with dementia using Mishel's reconceptualized uncertainty in illness theory.

Design

Integrative literature review using Whittemore and Knafl's approach.

Data Sources

PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Scopus and Web of Science were searched using terms such as uncertainty/unpredictability, decision‐making/advance care planning/end‐of‐life care planning, surrogate/family/caregiver/proxy and dementia. The search was initially conducted on 28 September 2021 and updated on 31 July 2023.

Review Methods

Through systematic screening, 20 research articles were included in the analysis. Content related to uncertainty in surrogate decision‐making regarding end‐of‐life care was extracted and analysed, focusing on the reconceptualized uncertainty in illness theory.

Results

First, surrogate uncertainty exists in various areas of surrogate decision‐making regarding end‐of‐life care. Second, antecedents of surrogate uncertainty include numerous intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Third, surrogates exhibited some negative psychological responses to uncertainty but continually processed and structured their uncertainty through certain approaches, leading them to grow as decision‐makers. Finally, research‐based evidence on surrogates' processing of uncertainty and shifts to new life perspectives remains limited.

Conclusion

Surrogates' uncertainty in decision‐making regarding end‐of‐life care for people with dementia is well characterized using the reconceptualized uncertainty in illness theory. Healthcare providers should help surrogates manage their uncertainty in surrogate decision‐making more constructively throughout the dementia trajectory.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The findings highlight the importance of assessing how surrogates process uncertainty and gauging how to help them process uncertainty and transition to new life perspectives.

Impact

This review contributes to healthcare professionals' understanding of surrogates' uncertainty in end‐of‐life care planning for people with dementia, especially what they are uncertain about, what influences their uncertainty and how they process it.

Reporting Method

This study adheres to the PRISMA reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
First clinical data on artificial intelligence‐guided catheter ablation in long‐standing persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Bahlke Fabian , Englert Florian , Popa Miruna , Bourier Felix , Reents Tilko , Lennerz Carsten , Kraft Hannah , Martinez Alex Tunsch , Kottmaier Marc , Syväri Jan , Tydecks Madeleine , Telishevska Marta , Lengauer Sarah , Hessling Gabriele , Deisenhofer Isabel , Erhard Nico
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Despite advanced ablation strategies and major technological improvements, treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) remains challenging and the underlying pathophysiology is not fully understood. This study analyzed the multiple procedure outcome and safety of catheter ablation of spatiotemporal dispersions (DISPERS) detected by artificial intelligence (AI)‐guided software in patients with long‐standing persistent AF.

Methods and Results

The Volta VX1 software was used for 50 consecutive patients undergoing catheter ablation for persistent AF. First, high‐density mapping (78% biatrial) with a multipolar mapping catheter was performed. In addition to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), ablation of DISPERS was performed aiming at homogenizing, dissecting, isolating, or connecting DISPERS areas to nonconducting anatomical structures. Follow‐up contained regular visits at our outpatient clinic at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months including 7‐day Holter electrocardiograms. Patients were mainly suffering from long‐standing persistent AF (mean AF duration 50.30 ± 54.28 months). Following PVI, ablation of left atrial and right atrial DISPERS areas led to AF cycle length prolongation (mean of 162.0 ± 16.6 to 202.2 ± 21.6 ms after) and AF termination to atrial tachycardia (AT) or sinus rhythm (SR) in 12 patients (24%). No stroke or pericardial effusion occurred; major groin complications (pseudoaneurysm n = 1, atrioventricular fistula n = 1) were detected in two patients. After a blanking period of 6 weeks, recurrence of any atrial arrhythmia was documented in 26 patients (52%). The majority of patients presented with organized AT (n = 15) while AF was present in n = 9 patients and AT/AF was observed in n = 2 patients. Twenty‐two patients underwent reablation. During a mean follow‐up of 363.14 ± 187.42 days and after an average of 1.46 ± 0.68 procedures, 82% of patients remained in stable SR.

Conclusion

DISPERS‐guided ablation using machine learning software (the Volta VX1 software) in addition to PVI in long‐standing persistent AF ablation resulted in high long‐term success rates regarding AF and AT elimination. Most arrhythmia recurrences were reentrant AT. After a total of 1.46 ± 0.68 procedures, freedom from AF/AT was 82%. Despite prolonged procedure times complication rates were low. Randomized studies are necessary to evaluate long‐term efficacy of dispersion‐guided ablation using AI.
Artificial neuronal networks are revolutionizing entomological research
Authors: Hartbauer Manfred
Published: January 2024

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in entomological research has gained significant attention in recent years. This review summarizes the current state of research on the potential of AI methods in various subfields of entomology, such as behavioural biology, biodiversity research, climate change research, pest management, and disease vector control. In some cases, AI‐based species identification methods based on deep learning neuronal network models have been shown to outperform traditional morphological identification methods in terms of accuracy and speed. Behavioural biology research has been enhanced through the use of AI‐based tracking systems that can classify insect behaviour and movement patterns. Habitat modelling has also been improved with the use of AI, allowing for the creation of more accurate models that can predict insect distribution and abundance. Climate change and biodiversity research have benefited from AI‐driven tools that can analyse large datasets and predict the impact of environmental changes on insect populations. In agriculture, pest management has been revolutionized by AI methods, with the development of smart traps and monitoring systems that can detect and identify pest species in real‐time, enabling targeted control measures. Disease vector control has also been improved through the use of AI‐based predictive models, which can identify areas at risk of disease transmission and aid in the development of effective control strategies. In conclusion, AI methods have the potential to revolutionize many aspects of entomological research. Future research should focus on developing more sophisticated AI tools and integrating them into entomological research to address even more complex ecological questions.
The habitat preferences of Idiosepius pygmaeus and their use of conspecific cues
Authors: Jenkins Tess L. , Strugnell Jan M. , Spady Blake L.
Published: January 2024

The two‐toned pygmy squid (Idiosepius pygmaeus, Steenstrup, 1881) is a small, tropical cephalopod that inhabits seagrass meadows and is known to attach to blades of seagrass using a specialised adhesive organ. A global decline in seagrass habitat due to anthropogenic disturbances may threaten the species that rely on seagrass meadows for shelter, foraging and other crucial activities. It is unclear if I. pygmaeus can utilise alternative habitats in the absence of seagrass. Here, we test the effect of habitat type, material and composition type, and the presence of conspecifics on the settlement preferences of I. pygmaeus. Individuals each underwent three separate experiments: (1) testing the preference between their known habitat, Zostera muelleri subsp. Capricorni and potential substitute, Sargassum, (2) testing the preference to attach to a natural or artificial structure of similar shape and size, and (3) testing the preference of identical habitats, one with a conspecific adhered to and one without. We found that I. pygmaeus did not have a strong preference for either Zostera or Sargassum. However, a strong preference was found for attachment to the natural structure over the artificial one. There was also strong evidence for the use of conspecific cues in habitat choice, with 75% of individuals selecting the habitat that contained a conspecific. As habitat loss is the leading cause of species extinction, the knowledge of habitat preferences for I. pygmaeus is vital in order to assess their risk of population decline. The findings of this study suggest that I. pygmaeus could utilise an alternative habitat in the presence of seagrass meadow reduction, which is under threat from human activity.
Rapid diversification of grey mangroves (Avicennia marina) driven by geographic isolation and extreme environmental conditions in the Arabian Peninsula
Authors: Friis Guillermo , Smith Edward G. , Lovelock Catherine E. , Ortega Alejandra , Marshell Alyssa , Duarte Carlos M. , Burt John A.
Published: January 2024

Biological systems occurring in ecologically heterogeneous and spatially discontinuous habitats provide an ideal opportunity to investigate the relative roles of neutral and selective factors in driving lineage diversification. The grey mangroves (Avicennia marina) of Arabia occur at the northern edge of the species' range and are subject to variable, often extreme, environmental conditions, as well as historic large fluctuations in habitat availability and connectivity resulting from Quaternary glacial cycles. Here, we analyse fully sequenced genomes sampled from 19 locations across the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Persian/Arabian Gulf (PAG) to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the species in the region and to identify adaptive mechanisms of lineage diversification. Population structure and phylogenetic analyses revealed marked genetic structure correlating with geographic distance and highly supported clades among and within the seas surrounding the Arabian Peninsula. Demographic modelling showed times of divergence consistent with recent periods of geographic isolation and low marine connectivity during glaciations, suggesting the presence of (cryptic) glacial refugia in the Red Sea and the PAG. Significant migration was detected within the Red Sea and the PAG, and across the Strait of Hormuz to the Arabian Sea, suggesting gene flow upon secondary contact among populations. Genetic‐environment association analyses revealed high levels of adaptive divergence and detected signs of multi‐loci local adaptation driven by temperature extremes and hypersalinity. These results support a process of rapid diversification resulting from the combined effects of historical factors and ecological selection and reveal mangrove peripheral environments as relevant drivers of lineage diversity.
An E3 ubiquitin ligase CSIT2 controls critical sterility‐inducing temperature of thermo‐sensitive genic male sterile rice
Authors: Peng Guoqing , Liu Minglong , Luo Ziliang , Deng Shuangfan , Wang Qinghua , Wang Mumei , Chen Huiqiong , Xiao Yueping , Zhang Yongjie , Hong Haona , Zhu Liya , Liu Zhenlan , Zhou Lingyan , Wang Yingxiang , Zhuang Chuxiong , Zhou Hai
Published: January 2024

Thermo‐sensitive genic male sterile (TGMS) lines are the core of two‐line hybrid rice (Oryza sativa). However, elevated or unstable critical sterility‐inducing temperatures (CSITs) of TGMS lines are bottlenecks that restrict the development of two‐line hybrid rice. However, the genes and molecular mechanisms controlling CSIT remain unknown.

Here, we report the CRITICAL STERILITY‐INDUCING TEMPERATURE 2 (CSIT2) that encodes a really interesting new gene (RING) type E3 ligase, controlling the CSIT of thermo‐sensitive male sterility 5 (tms5)‐based TGMS lines through ribosome‐associated protein quality control (RQC).

CSIT2 binds to the large and small ribosomal subunits and ubiquitinates 80S ribosomes for dissociation, and may also ubiquitinate misfolded proteins for degradation. Mutation of CSIT2 inhibits the possible damage to ubiquitin system and protein translation, which allows more proteins such as catalases to accumulate for anther development and inhibits abnormal accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and premature programmed cell death (PCD) in anthers, partly rescuing male sterility and raised the CSIT of tms5‐based TGMS lines.

These findings reveal a mechanism controlling CSIT and provide a strategy for solving the elevated or unstable CSITs of tms5‐based TGMS lines in two‐line hybrid rice.
The diversity and coevolution of Rubisco and CO2 concentrating mechanisms in marine macrophytes
Authors: Capó‐Bauçà Sebastià , Iñiguez Concepción , Galmés Jeroni
Published: January 2024

The kinetic properties of Rubisco, the most important carbon‐fixing enzyme, have been assessed in a small fraction of the estimated existing biodiversity of photosynthetic organisms. Until recently, one of the most significant gaps of knowledge in Rubisco kinetics was marine macrophytes, an ecologically relevant group including brown (Ochrophyta), red (Rhodophyta) and green (Chlorophyta) macroalgae and seagrasses (Streptophyta). These organisms express various Rubisco types and predominantly possess CO2‐concentrating mechanisms (CCMs), which facilitate the use of bicarbonate for photosynthesis. Since bicarbonate is the most abundant form of dissolved inorganic carbon in seawater, CCMs allow marine macrophytes to overcome the slow gas diffusion and low CO2 availability in this environment. The present review aims to compile and integrate recent findings on the biochemical diversity of Rubisco and CCMs in the main groups of marine macrophytes. The Rubisco kinetic data provided demonstrate a more relaxed relationship among catalytic parameters than previously reported, uncovering a variability in Rubisco catalysis that has been hidden by a bias in the literature towards terrestrial vascular plants. The compiled data indicate the existence of convergent evolution between Rubisco and biophysical CCMs across the polyphyletic groups of marine macrophytes and suggest a potential role for oxygen in shaping such relationship.
Digital mindfulness training and cognitive functions: A preregistered systematic review of neuropsychological findings
Authors: Liebherr Magnus , Brandtner Annika , Brand Matthias , Tang Yi‐Yuan
Published: January 2024

Traditional mindfulness interventions have been frequently reported to be effective in improving cognitive functions. In recent years, however, traditional programs are being increasingly replaced by technology‐enabled mindfulness training programs. The aim of the present systematic review (PROSPERO ID: CRD42021289480) is to evaluate the research evidence on their effects on cognitive functions. Empirical training studies in the realm of digital mindfulness training that fulfilled the inclusion criteria led to 19 studies and 1654 participants being included in this review from among the papers searched in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge. Results support previous assumptions on the potential of digital mindfulness training, with the most robust effect on attention control, followed by executive regulation, memory, cognitive flexibility, and other cognitive functions. However, the number of studies that did not find significant changes at least equaled, if not exceeded, the number of studies that found increases. The heterogeneity of identified studies prompted us to discuss several aspects in order to help the future development of digital applications.