bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global prevalence of nursing burnout syndrome and temporal trends for the last 10 years: A meta‐analysis of 94 studies covering over 30 countries
Authors: Ge Meng‐Wei , Hu Fei‐Hong , Jia Yi‐Jie , Tang Wen , Zhang Wan‐Qing , Chen Hong‐Lin
Published: May 2023

Aims and Objectives

To determine the global prevalence of nursing burnout syndrome and time trends for the last 10 years.

Background

The prevalence of burnout syndrome varied greatly in different regions in the last 10 years, so the average prevalence and time trends of nursing burnout syndrome for the last 10 years were not completely clear.

Design

A meta‐analysis conducted in the PRISMA guidelines.

Methods

CINAHL, Web of Science, and PubMed were searched for trials on the prevalence of nursing burnout syndrome from 2012 to 2022 systematically. Hoy's quality assessment tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias. The global prevalence of nursing burnout syndrome was estimated, and subgroup analysis was used to explore what caused heterogeneity. Time trends for the last 10 years were evaluated by meta‐regression using Stata 11.0.

Results

Ninety‐four studies reporting the prevalence of nursing burnout were included. The global prevalence of nursing burnout was 30.0% [95% CI: 26.0%–34.0%]. Subgroup analysis indicated that the specialty (p < .001) and the region (p < .001) and the year (p < .001) were sources of the high heterogeneity. Meta‐regression indicated that it tended to increase gradually for the last 10 years (t = 3.71, p = .006). The trends increased in Europe (t = 4.23, p = .006), Africa (t = 3.75, p = .006) and obstetrics (t = 3.66, p = .015). However, no statistical significance was found in ICU (t = −.14, p = .893), oncology (t = −0.44, p = .691) and emergency department (t = −0.30, p = .783).

Conclusions

A significant number of nurses were found to have moderate‐high levels of burnout syndrome for the last 10 years. The meta‐analysis also indicated an increased trend over time. Therefore, more attention to the prevalence of nursing burnout syndrome is urgently required.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

High prevalence of nursing burnout may attract more attention from the public. This analysis may serve as an impetus for relevant policy to change nurses' working conditions and reduce the occurrence of burnout.
Efforts to transfer ectopic embryos to the uterine cavity: A systematic review
Authors: Thomas Columba , Donovan G. Kevin , Fernandez Miguel A. , Buskmiller Cara
Published: May 2023

Aim

The objectives of this review are to identify and characterize attempts to transfer ectopic embryos to the uterus, and to understand arguments for and against the feasibility of such an intervention.

Methods

An electronic literature search involved all English language articles published in MEDLINE (1948–), Web of Science (1899–), and Scopus (1960–) before July 1, 2022. Articles were included that identify or describe attempts to transfer the embryo from its ectopic location to the uterine cavity, or discuss the feasibility of such an intervention; there were no exclusion criteria (PROSPERO registration number CRD42022364913).

Results

The initial search yielded 3060 articles; 8 articles were included. Of these, two articles were case reports that described the successful transfer of the embryo from its ectopic location to the uterus, followed by term births; both cases involved laparotomy with salpingostomy, followed by transfer of the embryonic sac into the uterine cavity through an opening made in the uterine wall. The other six articles varied in type, and provided a number of arguments for and against the feasibility of such a procedure.

Conclusions

The evidence and arguments identified in this review may help manage expectations for those interested in transferring an ectopically implanted embryo in the hope of continuing the pregnancy, but who are uncertain about the extent to which such a procedure has been attempted or may be possible. Isolated case reports, with no evidence of replication, should be interpreted with the utmost caution and do not constitute a procedure for clinical use.
Epistemic emotions in prosecutorial decision making
Authors: TÖRNQVIST NINA , WETTERGREN ÅSA
Published: May 2023

The article examines epistemic emotions as part of the emotive‐cognitive processes of prosecutors’ knowledge seeking and decision making in preliminary investigation and court proceedings. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork, interviews, and shadowing of prosecutors in Sweden, we show how emotions motivate and orient prosecutors’ inquiries and the fundamental role of the ‘certainty–doubt spiral’ for ‘doing objectivity’. In conclusion, we discuss the centrality of emotions for conscientious and well‐considered decisions in legal work. The study contributes to the field of law and emotion by exploring the epistemic quality of emotions, notably the certainty–doubt spiral, in legal work.
Labour law after neoliberalism?
Authors: DUKES RUTH , STREECK WOLFGANG
Published: May 2023

Over the course of the past 40 years, neoliberalism has all but destroyed the institutions that once civilized labour markets. In the wake of that destruction, labour law reform is being driven in some jurisdictions by a new kind of right‐wing populist politics. What does this hold in store for work relations? Our investigation of contemporary labour law begins with a brief look backwards to the pre‐ and post‐war decades and to the ostensible depoliticization of the law under neoliberalism. We then consider the possible emergence of a distinctly right‐wing populist approach to labour law in countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Poland, drawing comparisons with the German experience after neocorporatism. Finally, we take a normative turn and consider what steps ought to be taken by a government intent on addressing class inequalities and restoring the kind of rights that post‐war democracies once conferred on workers understood to be industrial citizens.
Can SARS‐CoV‐2 screening in oral biopsies aid epidemiological surveillance?
Authors: Martins‐Chaves Roberta Rayra , Diniz Marina Gonçalves , Miguita Lucyene , Felix Fernanda Aragão , Rocha Fernanda Faria , Fonseca Paula Luize Camargos , Geddes Victor Emmanuel Viana , Menezes Diego , Moreira Rennan Garcias , Liborio‐Kimura Tatiana , Câmara Jeconias , da Costa Mendes Tássia Caroline , Pontes Hélder Antônio Rebelo , Pontes Flavia Sirotheau Correa , de Freitas Gonçalves Thayanne Oliveira , Fonsêca Thamyres Campos , Abrahão Aline Corrêa , Romañach Mário José , Alves Ana Paula Negreiros Nunes , Pereira Karuza Maria Alves , da Cruz Perez Danyel Elias , de Amorim Carvalho Elaine Judite , dos Santos Jean Nunes , de Aquino Xavier Flávia Caló , Giffoni Fernando Costa , de Souza Alessandra Hubner , Gomes Carolina Cavaliéri , de Sousa Sílvia Ferreira , Fonseca Felipe Paiva , de Souza Renan Pedra , Aguiar Renato Santana , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: May 2023

Background

Three years after the first confirmed COVID‐19 case in Brazil, the outcomes of Federal government omissions in managing the crisis and anti‐science stance heading into the pandemic have become even more evident. With over 36 million confirmed cases and nearly 700 000 deaths up to January 2023, the country is one of the hardest‐hit places in the world. The lack of mass‐testing programs was a critical broken pillar responsible for the quick and uncontrolled SARS‐CoV‐2 spread throughout the Brazilian population. Faced with this situation, we aimed to perform the routine SARS‐CoV‐2 screening through RT‐qPCR of oral biopsies samples to aid in the asymptomatic epidemiological surveillance during the principal outbreak periods.

Methods

We analyzed 649 formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded oral tissue samples from five important oral and maxillofacial pathology laboratories from the north, northeast, and southeast geographic regions of Brazil. We also sequenced the whole viral genome of positive cases to investigate SARS‐CoV‐2 variants.

Results

The virus was detected in 9/649 analyzed samples, of which three harbored the Variant of Concern Alpha (B.1.1.7).

Conclusion

Although our approach did not value aiding asymptomatic epidemiological surveillance, we could successfully identify a using FFPE tissue samples. Therefore, we suggest using FFPE tissue samples from patients who have confirmed diagnosis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection for phylogenetic reconstruction and contraindicate the routine laboratory screening of these samples as a tool for asymptomatic epidemiological surveillance.
Effect of abiotic factors on progress and severity of sheath rot (Sarocladium oryzae) in rice
Authors: Mehta Amritpal , Singh S. K. , Wani Owais Ali , Ahanger Shafat Ahmad , Basu Umer , Vaid Amrish , Sharma Sonali , Basandrai Ashwani Kumar
Published: May 2023

Sheath rot, caused by Sarocladium oryzae, is an emerging serious threat in rice cultivating regions especially in Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, causing yield losses of 20%–85%. Little and scattered information is available on the epidemiology of the disease. Hence, the field experiments were conducted during the cropping seasons of 2019 and 2020 to find out the effect of weather factors on the development of the disease as well as computation of predictive model for its initiation and spread in the field in five popular and commercially grown rice varieties viz. PB‐1509, PB‐1401, PR‐114, PB‐1121 and Arize 6444 Gold. The higher mean percent disease index (PDI) of 37.3% was recorded during 2019, whereas it was 33.8% during 2020. The effect of cropping seasons (years) on PDI, area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) and infection rate (r) was significant. Significant and negative correlation was observed between PDI and selected meteorological parameters, that is maximum and minimum temperature and relative humidity in the evening during both the cropping seasons The PDI had positive and significant correlation with relative humidity in the morning during the cropping season 2020. Rainfall showed significant and negative correlation with PDI in all the varieties during 2019 whereas it was non‐ significant and positive during 2020 in all the varieties except PR‐114 where, it was positive and significantly correlated. Minimum temperature, morning and evening relative humidity and sunshine hours resulted in ~92%–95% and 97%–99% variation for PDI in all the varieties during the cropping seasons 2019 and 2020, respectively. Sheath rot was the maximum recorded at minimum temperature (11.5–20.0°C), high morning relative humidity (74.0%–94.0%) and moderate evening relative humidity (26.0%–75.0%) and sunshine hours of 2.8–9.3 h, respectively. All the assumptions related to the developed model were acceptable as the global stat, skewness, kurtosis, link function and heteroscedasticity tests had the least p‐values in all the varieties during both the cropping seasons. Hence the model may be used for the prediction of sheath rot, which would be helpful in the early adoption, precise and judicious management practices.
Serum insulin concentration in dogs with insulinoma as a clinical marker for presence of metastasis at the time of diagnosis
Authors: Petrelli Andrea , German Alexander J. , O'Connell Erin M. , Silvestrini Paolo
Published: May 2023

Background

Information regarding serum insulin concentration in dogs newly diagnosed with insulinoma and its association with clinical stage and survival time is lacking.

Objective

Examine association between serum insulin concentration and survival and clinical disease stage in dogs with insulinoma.

Animals.

Fifty‐nine client‐owned dogs with a diagnosis of insulinoma from 2 referral hospitals.

Method

Retrospective observational study. The χ2 test was used to compare the proportion of dogs with increased insulin concentration in groups with or without metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Linear mixed‐effect models were built to compare differences in insulin concentration between dogs with and without evidence of metastasis at the time of original diagnosis. Cox's proportional hazards regression and Kaplan‐Meier graphs were used to evaluate the association between insulin concentration and insulin groups and survival.

Results

Median serum insulin concentration was 33 mIU/L (range, 8‐200 mIU/L) in dogs with World Health Organization (WHO) stage I disease and 45 mIU/L (range, 12‐213 mIU/L) in dogs with WHO stage II and III disease. No difference was found in the proportion of dogs with increased insulin concentration with or without metastasis (P = .09). No association was identified between insulin concentration and survival (P = .63), and between dogs grouped by insulin concentration and survival (P = .51).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Serum insulin concentrations were not different between dogs with or without metastasis at diagnosis. The degree of insulinemia does not provide further information regarding the stage of the disease and is not associated with survival time in dogs with insulinoma.
The macroeconomic effects of endogenous credit and money creation under Basel III regulations
Authors: Li Boyao
Published: May 2023

Bank regulations affect the behaviour of credit and money creation; hence, they are essential for economic growth and stability. This paper develops an analytical model of the monetary circuit to show the macroeconomic effects of money creation under bank regulations. It describes the equilibrium in which banks create money in accordance with capital adequacy ratios or net stable funding ratios. This study reveals the equilibrium economic growth rate and debt level. In addition, this paper demonstrates how bank regulations influence firm capital structures, and the conditions for firms using debt and filing for bankruptcy. Results show that bank regulations can transfer risk from banks to firms. In fact, this study identifies a channel through which banks actively influence the macroeconomy through their money creation.
From grasses to succulents – development and function of distinct stomatal subsidiary cells
Authors: Cheng Xin , Raissig Michael T.
Published: May 2023

Stomata are breathing pores on leaves that balance photosynthetic carbon dioxide uptake and water vapor loss. Stomatal morphology and complexity are rather diverse when considering stomatal subsidiary cells (SCs). Subsidiary cells are adjacent to the central guard cells (GCs) and are morphologically distinct from other epidermal cells. Yet, how various SCs develop and whether and how they support stomatal gas exchange physiology outside of the grass family is largely unknown. Here, we discuss the development, ontogeny, and putative function of paracytic vs anisocytic SCs, which can be found in grasses and Crassulaceae succulents, respectively. First, we highlight recent advances in understanding how grasses form stomatal SCs. We then summarize novel insights into stomatal development in SC‐less Arabidopsis to speculate on how this stomatal program might be rewired to enable anisocytic SC formation. Finally, we discuss the functional relevance of paracytic SCs in grasses and the putative roles of anisocytic SCs in succulents.
Long‐term capture data uncover shifts in the daily activity patterns of Amazonian birds
Authors: Rutt Cameron L. , Stouffer Philip C , Amaral Bruna R. , Luther David A.
Published: May 2023

Although the duration of biological rhythms varies from milliseconds to decades, daily cycles are especially widespread for individual organisms. These circadian rhythms are synchronized by light–dark cycles, which govern predictable changes in other microclimate variables. Despite the fixed, regular nature of these abiotic cycles at low latitudes, little is known about how different animals structure activity along these gradients. We used 25 years of capture–recapture data and ~ 25 000 unique captures to characterize ‘activity' (time of capture) for 65 species of Amazonian birds in the lowest forest stratum (0–2.5 m). To quantify vertical niche breadths, we also measured foraging heights for these same species in the field. Activity peaked within the first two hours after sunrise for most species (71%), while others peaked 1–3 h later (29%). This difference was associated with an apparent preference for specific vertical strata, as terrestrial and near‐ground birds peaked ~ 1 h after sunrise, while birds from higher strata delayed their first bouts of activity in the lower understory (by an average of 40–100 min). Peak capture times also correlated with long‐term abundance trends, as only species with the earliest capture times showed strong declines, suggesting that associations with mid‐ or late morning microclimates may contribute to resiliency in birds typical of higher strata. Because arboreal species largely avoid the lower understory in the early morning, when terrestrial birds are active, we infer that they are poorly adapted to low light environments. However, with their broad vertical niches and reliance on brighter microhabitats, we suggest that an arboreal lifestyle diminishes specialization and may increase the capacity to cope with a wider range of daily microclimate conditions. We predict that subtle, but important, shifts in daily activity patterns would materialize if other biodiversity‐monitoring programs could analyze similar temporal datasets.
Fertility Intentions During the Covid‐19 Pandemic: An Analysis of Individual‐ and Municipality‐Level Determinants
Authors: Marteleto Letícia J. , Kumar Sneha , Dondero Molly , Gustavo Fernandes Sereno Luiz
Published: May 2023

Recognizing the prolonged, uneven, and evolving nature of the Covid‐19 pandemic, this study provides one of the first dynamic, multilevel perspectives of women's fertility intentions in response to the pandemic and its multifaceted impacts. We examine how evolving individual‐ and community‐level Covid‐19 risk mechanisms and socioeconomic and life‐course conditions are associated with continuity and change in women's fertility intentions. We combine individual‐level panel data from a population‐based sample of women aged 18–34 in Pernambuco, Brazil in 2020 and 2021 with corresponding administrative data from 94 municipalities. We use multinomial logit regressions to model continuity and change in fertility intentions across waves. We then estimate fixed effect models to highlight the time‐varying determinants of changing fertility intentions while accounting for unobserved, time‐invariant individual factors. We find that high and/or increasing individual and community‐level Covid‐19 exposure is associated with a greater likelihood of abandoning initial childbearing plans and a greater likelihood to maintain intentions to forego versus to intend having additional children. We advance the literature by highlighting how individual‐level Covid‐19 infection risk perceptions matter for fertility intentions, net of community‐level exposure, and the necessity of dynamic perspectives for understanding how fertility intentions have changed (or not) in response to the pandemic.
Identification of quantitative trait loci and candidate genes controlling the tocopherol synthesis pathway in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Park Cheolwoo , Liu Dequan , Wang Qingyu , Xu Donghe
Published: May 2023

A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was used to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and their candidate genes controlling the tocopherol (Toc) synthesis pathway. The RIL population was cultivated in field conditions in 3 years. A genetic map constructed using 1624 DNA markers was used for QTL analysis. We identified 22 QTLs for seed tocopherol contents and their ratios, of which two QTL clusters on chromosomes (Chr) 9 and 14 exerted consistent large effects on tocopherol composition across the 3 years. The QTL cluster localized on Chr 9 might correspond to γ‐TMT3, which controls the conversion of γ‐Toc into α‐Toc. The QTL cluster localized on Chr 14 was novel, which might regulate the conversion of MPBQ (a precursor of δ‐Toc) into DMPBQ (the precursor of γ‐Toc). The effect of the QTL cluster on Chr 14 was validated in a pair of near isogenic lines, and its candidate gene was mined. The identified QTLs and their candidate genes might be used in breeding programmes to improve α‐Toc content in soybean seeds.
What analytic metaphysics can do for scientific metaphysics
Authors: Lee Chanwoo
Published: May 2023

The apparent chasm between two camps in metaphysics, analytic metaphysics and scientific metaphysics, is well recognized. I argue that the relationship between them is not necessarily a rivalry; a division of labour that resembles the relationship between pure mathematics and science is possible. As a case study, I look into the metaphysical underdetermination argument for ontic structural realism, a well‐known position in scientific metaphysics, together with an argument for the position in analytic metaphysics known as ontological nihilism. I argue that we can ascribe the same schema to both arguments, which indicates that analytic metaphysics can offer an abstract model that scientific metaphysics may find useful.
Safety first, but for whom? Shifts in risk perception for self and others following COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Choi Soyeon , Merrell Wilson N. , Ackerman Joshua M.
Published: May 2023

Vaccines can affect the mind as well as the body. Research on the psychological impact of vaccines has largely focused on risk‐related judgments and behaviors involving the recipient. Here, we extend this work to risk‐related judgments of others. In a prospective cohort study involving three samples and two timepoints (N = 588 adults), we tested competing hypotheses about the effects of receiving a COVID‐19 vaccine on perceived risks to the unvaccinated: (1) a self/other differentiation hypothesis (vaccination will lead to estimation of lower risk for the self but higher risk for others) versus (2) a self/other correspondence hypothesis (vaccination will lead to estimation of lower risk from contracting COVID‐19 for both self and others). Results revealed risk estimates as well as preferences for COVID‐related social policies more consistent with the former hypothesis. We discuss potential psychological mechanisms and implications of these findings.
Laser‐assisted blepharoplasty: An innovative safe and effective technique
Authors: Bonan Paolo , Fusco Irene , Bruscino Nicola , Madeddu Francesca , Troiano Michela , Verdelli Alice , Piccolo Domenico , Rampino Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

Background

Blepharoplasty is one of the most popular esthetic procedures with an acceptable risk profile and a relatively quick procedure.

Methods

The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new CO2 and 1540‐nm laser‐assisted blepharoplasty technique applied to the upper and lower eyelids. A total of 38 patients were enrolled. Photographs were taken before the treatment and at 6‐month follow‐up. One “blind” observer assessed the performance of this technique by ranking the results in four categories of eyelid esthetic: 1 = no or poor results (0%–25%), 2 = slight improvement (25%–50%), 3 = moderate improvement (50%–75%) and 4 = marked improvement (75%–100%). All possible complications were monitored.

Results

Thirty‐two patients (84 %) achieved marked improvement, four patients (11%) moderate improvement, two patients (5 %) slight improvement, while zero subjects (0%) poor or no improvement. No serious adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions

Our results from clinical evaluations suggest that the CO2 and 1540‐nm laser assisted blepharoplasty is proved to be a sophisticate intervention efficacious in improving the treatment of patients with various degrees of eyelid and periocular aging and also in reducing downtime.
Identifying Suitable Three-Dimensional Bio-Printed Scaffold Architectures to Incubate in a Perfusion Bioreactor: Simulation and Experimental Approaches
Authors: Mankowsky Jack , Quigley Connor , Clark Scott , Habib Ahasan
Published: May 2023

Traditional cell culturing methods are limited in their ability to supply growth medium to cells within scaffolds. To address this, we developed a custom perfusion bioreactor that allows for dynamic medium supply to encapsulated or seeded cells. Our custom-designed bioreactor improves the in vivo stimuli and conditions, which may enhance cell viability and proliferation performance. Some of the efforts include using dual medium tanks to replace the medium without stopping perfusion and a newly designed perfusion chamber that can accommodate an array of cassettes allowing for a wide assortment of scaffold shapes and sizes. In this paper, we explored the response of fluid flow to certain types of scaffold pore geometries and porosities using simulation and experimental approaches. Various pore geometries were considered, such as uniform triangular, square, diamond, circular, and honeycomb having uniform and variable sizes. Finally, bone tissue architecture was mimicked and simulated to identify the impact of fluid flow. Based on the results, optimum pore geometry for scaffolds were determined. We explored real-time fluid flow response on scaffolds fabricated with 8% Alginate, 4% Alginate-4% Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC), and 2% Alginate-6% CMC incubated, allowing a constant fluid flow for various periods such as 1, 2, 4, and 8 h. The change of fabricated scaffolds was determined in terms of swelling rate, i.e., change of filament width and material diffusion, i.e., comparison of dry material weight before and after incubation. This comparative study can assist in application-based materials selection suitable for incubating in a perfusion bioreactor.
Crack Identification by Digital Image Correlation Method Using Crack Shape as Prior Information
Authors: Hana Norihiko , Umeda Masaki , Akiyoshi Masao , Mitamura Kazushi , Amaya Kenji
Published: May 2023

A new crack identification method that estimates the cracks in invisible locations based on the surface deformation measured by digital image correlation (DIC) is developed. An inverse problem is setup to estimate such invisible cracks from surface deformations. The inverse problem has an ill-condition because of noise contained in surface deformations. Our proposed regularization method uses prior information and Expectation a Posteriori (EAP) estimation. Prior information includes candidate crack shapes and surface deformations due to cracks. The candidate crack shapes are created by determining a crack's starting point and propagating it based on the force at its perimeter (ligament). A prior distribution is the surface deformations due to the candidate crack shapes. The likelihood distribution is a surface deformation measured by the DIC method. A posterior distribution is defined from the prior and likelihood distributions. In this study, the estimated result is the expected value of the posterior distribution. The validation test was performed, and the result shows that the proposed method superior to the conventional L1-norm regularization method.
Insufficient reporting of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy instrumental and peak fitting parameters (metadata) in the scientific literature
Authors: Major George H. , Clark B. Maxwell , Cayabyab Kevin , Engel Nathan , Easton Christopher D. , Čechal Jan , Baer Donald R. , Terry Jeff , Linford Matthew R.
Published: May 2023

This study was motivated by earlier observations. It is a systematic examination of the adequacy of reporting of information (metadata) necessary to understand x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data collection and data analysis in the scientific literature. The information for this study was obtained from papers published in three high-quality journals over a six-month period in 2019 and throughout 2021. Each paper was evaluated to determine whether the authors had reported (percentages of the papers properly providing the information are given in parentheses) the spectrometer (66%), fitting software (15%), x-ray source (40%), pass energy (10%), spot size (5%), synthetic peak shapes in fits (10%), backgrounds in fits (10%), whether the XPS data are shown in the main body of the paper or in the supporting information (or both), and whether fitted or unfitted spectra were shown (80% of published spectra are fit). The Shirley background is the most widely used background in XPS peak fitting. The Al Kα source is the most widely used x-ray source for XPS data collection. casaxps is the most widely used fitting program for XPS data analysis. There is good agreement between the results gathered during the two years of our survey. There are some hints the situation may be improving. This study also provides a list of the information/parameters that should be reported when XPS is performed.
Mice with humanized livers reveal the role of hepatocyte clocks in rhythmic behavior
Authors: Delbès Anne-Sophie , Quiñones Mar , Gobet Cédric , Castel Julien , Denis Raphaël G. P. , Berthelet Jérémy , Weger Benjamin D. , Challet Etienne , Charpagne Aline , Metairon Sylviane , Piccand Julie , Kraus Marine , Rohde Bettina H. , Bial John , Wilson Elizabeth M. , Vedin Lise-Lotte , Minniti Mirko E. , Pedrelli Matteo , Parini Paolo , Gachon Frédéric , Luquet Serge
Published: May 2023

The synchronization of circadian clock depends on a central pacemaker located in the suprachiasmatic nuclei. However, the potential feedback of peripheral signals on the central clock remains poorly characterized. To explore whether peripheral organ circadian clocks may affect the central pacemaker, we used a chimeric model in which mouse hepatocytes were replaced by human hepatocytes. Liver humanization led to reprogrammed diurnal gene expression and advanced the phase of the liver circadian clock that extended to muscle and the entire rhythmic physiology. Similar to clock-deficient mice, liver-humanized mice shifted their rhythmic physiology more rapidly to the light phase under day feeding. Our results indicate that hepatocyte clocks can affect the central pacemaker and offer potential perspectives to apprehend pathologies associated with altered circadian physiology.
Enthalpy and entropy synergistic regulation–based programmable DNA motifs for biosensing and information encryption
Authors: Zheng Lin Lin , Li Jin Ze , Wen Mei , Xi Dongmei , Zhu Yanxi , Wei Qin , Zhang Xiao-Bing , Ke Guoliang , Xia Fan , Gao Zhong Feng
Published: May 2023

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) provides a collection of intelligent tools for the development of information cryptography and biosensors. However, most conventional DNA regulation strategies rely solely on enthalpy regulation, which suffers from unpredictable stimuli-responsive performance and unsatisfactory accuracy due to relatively large energy fluctuations. Here, we report an enthalpy and entropy synergistic regulation–based pH-responsive A+/C DNA motif for programmable biosensing and information encryption. In the DNA motif, the variation in loop length alters entropic contribution, and the number of A+/C bases regulates enthalpy, which is verified through thermodynamic characterizations and analyses. On the basis of this straightforward strategy, the performances, such as pKa, of the DNA motif can be precisely and predictably tuned. The DNA motifs are finally successfully applied for glucose biosensing and crypto-steganography systems, highlighting their potential in the field of biosensing and information encryption.
Lighting up metastasis process before formation of secondary tumor by phosphorescence imaging
Authors: Chang Kai , Xiao Leyi , Fan Yuanyuan , Gu Juqing , Wang Yunsheng , Yang Jie , Chen Mingzhou , Zhang Yufeng , Li Qianqian , Li Zhen
Published: May 2023

Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths; until now, the detection of tumor metastasis is mainly located at the period that secondary tumors have been formed, which usually results in poor prognosis. Thus, fast and precise positioning of organs, where tumor metastases are likely to occur at its earliest stages, is essential for improving patient outcomes. Here, we demonstrated a phosphorescence imaging method by organic nanoparticles to detect early tumor metastasis progress with microenvironmental changes, putting the detection period ahead to the formation of secondary tumors. In the orthotopic and simulated hematological tumor metastasis models, the microenvironmental changes could be recognized by phosphorescence imaging at day 3, after tumor implantation in liver or intravenous injection of cancer cells. It was far ahead those of other reported imaging methods with at least 7 days later, providing a sensitive and convenient method to monitor tumor metastases at the early stage.
A hierarchical sensorimotor control framework for human-in-the-loop robotic hands
Authors: Seminara Lucia , Dosen Strahinja , Mastrogiovanni Fulvio , Bianchi Matteo , Watt Simon , Beckerle Philipp , Nanayakkara Thrishantha , Drewing Knut , Moscatelli Alessandro , Klatzky Roberta L. , Loeb Gerald E.
Published: May 2023

Human manual dexterity relies critically on touch. Robotic and prosthetic hands are much less dexterous and make little use of the many tactile sensors available. We propose a framework modeled on the hierarchical sensorimotor controllers of the nervous system to link sensing to action in human-in-the-loop, haptically enabled, artificial hands.
Comment on “Inflammasome inhibition prevents α-synuclein pathology and dopaminergic neurodegeneration in mice”
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Weber Martin , Foreman Oded , Remy Helga , Mracsko Eva Zsuzsanna , Hanson Jesse E.
Published: May 2023

We highlight potential issues with a Western blot assay using mouse anti–caspase-1 antibody to detect cleaved caspase-1 p20 subunit in mouse brain tissue lysates.
Epstein-Barr Virus BBLF1 Mediates Secretory Vesicle Transport to Facilitate Mature Virion Release
Authors: Uddin Md Kamal , Watanabe Takahiro , Arata Masataka , Sato Yoshitaka , Kimura Hiroshi , Murata Takayuki
Published: May 2023

Several viruses have been linked to the development of cancer in humans. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), the first identified human oncovirus, causes a wide range of cancers.
Characterization of a Nonagglutinating Toxigenic Vibrio cholerae Isolate
Authors: Gladney Lori M. , Griswold Taylor , Turnsek Maryann , Im Monica S. , Parsons Michele M. B. , Katz Lee S. , Tarr Cheryl L. , Lee Christine C.
Published: May 2023

Clinical cases of vibriosis are on the rise due to climate events and ocean warming (1, 2), and increased surveillance of toxigenic
Vibrio cholerae
strains is now more crucial than ever. While traditional phenotyping using antisera against O1 and O139 is useful for monitoring currently circulating strains with pandemic or epidemic potential, reagents are limited for non-O1/non-O139 strains.
A Novel 16S rRNA PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Assay to Accurately Distinguish Zoonotic
Capnocytophaga canimorsus
and
C. cynodegmi
Authors: Lai Cheng-Hung , Lin Yu-Sin , Wang Chao-Min , Chang Poa-Chun , Shia Wei-Yau
Published: May 2023

With the increased number of small animal breeding populations, zoonotic infections associated with small animals need to be taken more seriously.
Capnocytophaga canimorsus
and
C. cynodegmi
are part of common biota in the mouths of small animals and can cause human infections through bites or scratches. In this study,
C. cynodegmi
with site-specific 16S rRNA sequence polymorphisms was erroneously identified as
C. canimorsus
during the investigation of canine
Capnocytophaga
by conventional PCR.
Learning from Seed Microbes:
Trichoderma
Coating Intervenes in Rhizosphere Microbiome Assembly
Authors: Xie Penghao , Yang Shengdie , Liu Xiaoyu , Zhang Tianyi , Zhao Xinyuan , Wen Tao , Zhang Jian , Xue Chao , Shen Qirong , Yuan Jun
Published: May 2023

Seed-associated microbiomes can impact the rhizosphere microbiome assembly and function display. However, there remains little insight into the underlying mechanisms concerning how alterations in the composition of the seed microbiome with the beneficial microbes may intervene in the assembly of a rhizosphere microbiome.
Supplemental Material: Zircon age spectra to quantify magma evolution
Authors: Schmitt Axel , al. et
Published: May 2023

Figure S1. Results of simulations in which we systematically changed a single model parameter, starting from the reference simulations shown in Figure 11.
Effects of MFI Zeolite Crystal Size on Light Olefins Production in Catalytic Cracking of Hydrocarbon Feedstocks
Authors: Bachurina D. O. , Yurtaeva A. S. , Koveza V. A. , Potapenko O. V. , Ivanova I. I.
Published: May 2023

The paper describes the physicochemical characterization and catalytic testing of MFI zeolites with crystal sizes ranging from 0.15 to 6 μm supplied by different manufacturers. The physicochemical properties were examined by atomic absorption spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence analysis, scanning electron microscopy, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption, and ammonia temperature-programmed desorption. The MFI zeolites were then added to a cracking catalyst and subjected to catalytic testing in the conversion of cyclohexane and hydrotreated vacuum gas oil (HTVGO). It was found that the conversion of the model cyclohexane feedstock was significantly enhanced when the crystal size of the MFI zeolite added to the cracking catalyst was reduced from the micro- to submicro-scale; on the other hand, an equal downsizing had almost no effect on the conversion of the real HTVGO feed. However, the use of submicrosized MFI crystals in HTVGO cracking decreased the contribution of hydrogen transfer reactions, thus reducing coke deposits.
GAIA Arguments for and against a Hypothetical Sun Companion
Authors: Malkov O. Yu.
Published: May 2023

The hypothesis that the Sun is a component of a binary star system has been around for about a hundred years. Assumptions about the nature of the companion continue to be published as new observational data become available. The paper shows that the results of the work of the Gaia space observatory impose certain restrictions on the nature and location of the companion. The fact that the companion is not registered by the observatory leaves the following marginal possibilities: a cool brown dwarf (Y3 and later) in an orbit inside the Oort cloud, or an L/T brown dwarf in a higher orbit (from $$a \approx $$ 105 AU). At the same time, the companion is quite likely cataloged in the 2MASS and WISE surveys. We also provided estimates for the absolute G-magnitudes of brown dwarfs of late spectral types.
Vitamin D testing in children and adolescents in Victoria, Australia: are testing practices in line with global recommendations?
Authors: Zurynski Yvonne , Munns Craig Frank , Sezgin Gorkem , Imai Chisato , Georgiou Andrew
Published: May 2023

Objective

To describe changing primary care ordering of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) tests in Australian children.

Design

Longitudinal, population-based descriptive study of 25OHD testing using a large administrative dataset of pathology orders and results, 2003–2018.

Setting and participants

Three primary health networks in Victoria, Australia. Patients aged ≤18 years with a serum 25OHD test ordered by the general practitioner (GP).

Main outcome measures

Trends over 15 years in the number of 25OHD tests ordered, proportion indicating low levels or vitamin D deficiency and details of repeat testing.

Results

Of 970 816 laboratory tests, 61 809 (6.4%) included an order for a 25OHD test. The 61 809 tests were performed in 46 960 children or adolescents. The odds of ordering a 25OHD test in 2018 was 30.4 times higher compared with 2003 (95%CI 22.6 to 40.8, p<0.001). The odds of detecting a low 25OHD (<50 nmol/L) compared with the baseline in 2003 remained steady (adjusted OR<1.5) over time. Repeat tests (14 849) were undertaken in 9626 patients (median intertest interval 357 days, IQR 172–669 days). A total of 4603 test results indicated vitamin D deficiency (<30 nmol/L), but in only 180 (3.9%) of these was a repeat test performed within 3 months as recommended.

Conclusion

Testing volumes increased 30-fold, but the odds of detecting low 25OHD remained steady. Current Australian policy and the Global Consensus Recommendations for the prevention and management of nutritional rickets do not support routine 25OHD testing. Education and electronic pathology ordering tools may assist GPs to better align practice with current recommendations.
Children presenting with diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis to Emergency Departments during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK and Ireland: an international retrospective observational study
Authors: Ponmani Caroline , Nijman Ruud G , Roland Damian , Barrett Michael , Hulse Tony , Whittle Victoria , Lyttle Mark D
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To describe the incidence of new onset paediatric diabetes mellitus, clinical characteristics and patterns of presentation to emergency departments (ED) during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to assess whether this increase was associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Design

Retrospective medical record review.

Setting

Forty nine paediatric EDs across the UK and Ireland.

Patients

All children aged 6 months to 16 years presenting to EDs with (1) new onset diabetes or (2) pre-existing diabetes with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), during the COVID-19 pandemic (1 March 2020–28 February 2021) and the preceding year (1 March 2019–28 February 2020).

Results

There were increases in new onset diabetes (1015 to 1183, 17%), compared with background incidence of 3%–5% in the UK over the past 5 years. There were increases in children presenting with new onset diabetes in DKA (395 to 566, 43%), severe DKA (141 to 252, 79%) and admissions to intensive care (38 to 72, 89%). Increased severity was reflected in biochemical and physiological parameters and administration of fluid boluses. Time to presentation from symptom onset for children presenting with new onset diabetes and DKA were similar across both years; healthcare seeking delay did not appear to be the sole contributing factor to DKA during the pandemic. Patterns of presentation changed in the pandemic year and seasonal variation was lost. Children with pre-existing diabetes presented with fewer episodes of decompensation.

Conclusions

There were increases in new onset diabetes in children and a higher risk of DKA in the first COVID pandemic year.
Experiences of healthcare personnel with death in the neonatal intensive care unit: a systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Wong Jessica Qing Hui , Charles Judith Sharon , Mok Hao Ting , Tan Teresa Shu Zhen , Amin Zubair , Ng Yvonne Peng Mei
Published: May 2023

Objective

To synthesise evidence from qualitative studies on the experiences of healthcare personnel (HCP) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) caring for dying neonates.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search, in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD42021250015), of four databases (PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL) from date of inception of the databases to 31 December 2021 using MeSH terms and related keywords. Data were analysed using three-step inductive thematic synthesis. Quality assessment of included studies was performed.

Results

Thirty-two articles were included. There were 775 participants, majority (92.6%) of whom were nurses and doctors. Quality of studies was variable. The narratives of HCP coalesced into three themes: sources of distress, coping methods and the way forward. Sources of distress encompassed HCP’s discomfort with neonatal deaths; poor communication among HCP and with patient’s family; lack of support (from organisations, peers and HCP’s family) and emotional responses (guilt, helplessness and compassion fatigue). Methods of coping included setting emotional boundaries, support from colleagues, clear communication and compassionate care and well-designed end-of-life workflows. Steps taken by HCP to move forward and overcome the emotionally turbulent effects of NICU deaths included finding meaning in death, building deeper relationship with patients’ families and the NICU team and embracing purpose and pride in work.

Conclusion

HCP face several challenges when a death occurs in the NICU. HCP can provide better end-of-life care if their undesirable experiences with death are mitigated by better understanding and overcoming factors causing distress.
Leisure-time physical activity and mortality from influenza and pneumonia: a cohort study of 577 909 US adults
Authors: Webber Bryant J , Yun Heather C , Whitfield Geoffrey P
Published: May 2023

Objective

To examine the association of leisure-time physical activity with mortality from influenza and pneumonia.

Methods

A nationally representative sample of US adults (aged ≥18 years) who participated in the National Health Interview Survey from 1998 to 2018 were followed for mortality through 2019. Participants were classified as meeting both physical activity guidelines if they reported ≥150 min/week of moderate-intensity equivalent aerobic physical activity and ≥2 episodes/week of muscle-strengthening activity. Participants were also classified into five volume-based categories of self-reported aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity. Influenza and pneumonia mortality was defined as having an underlying cause of death with an International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision code of J09–J18 recorded in the National Death Index. Mortality risk was assessed using Cox proportional hazards, adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, health conditions and influenza and pneumococcal vaccination status. Data were analysed in 2022.

Results

Among 577 909 participants followed for a median of 9.23 years, 1516 influenza and pneumonia deaths were recorded. Compared with participants meeting neither guideline, those meeting both guidelines had 48% lower adjusted risk of influenza and pneumonia mortality. Relative to no aerobic activity, 10–149, 150–300, 301–600 and >600 min/week were associated with lower risk (by 21%, 41%, 50% and 41%). Relative to <2 episodes/week of muscle-strengthening activity, 2 episodes/week was associated with 47% lower risk and ≥7 episodes/week with 41% higher risk.

Conclusions

Aerobic physical activity, even at quantities below the recommended level, may be associated with lower influenza and pneumonia mortality while muscle-strengthening activity demonstrated a J-shaped relationship.
Staffing levels and hospital mortality in England: a national panel study using routinely collected data
Authors: Rubbo Bruna , Saville Christina , Dall'Ora Chiara , Turner Lesley , Jones Jeremy , Ball Jane , Culliford David , Griffiths Peter
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Examine the association between multiple clinical staff levels and case-mix adjusted patient mortality in English hospitals. Most studies investigating the association between hospital staffing levels and mortality have focused on single professional groups, in particular nursing. However, single staff group studies might overestimate effects or neglect important contributions to patient safety from other staff groups.

Design

Retrospective observational study of routinely available data.

Setting and participants

138 National Health Service hospital trusts that provided general acute adult services in England between 2015 and 2019.

Outcome measure

Standardised mortality rates were derived from the Summary Hospital level Mortality Indicator data set, with observed deaths as outcome in our models and expected deaths as offset. Staffing levels were calculated as the ratio of occupied beds per staff group. We developed negative binomial random-effects models with trust as random effects.

Results

Hospitals with lower levels of medical and allied healthcare professional (AHP) staff (e.g, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, radiography, speech and language therapy) had significantly higher mortality rates (rate ratio: 1.04, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.06, and 1.04, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.06, respectively), while those with lower support staff had lower mortality rates (0.85, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.91 for nurse support, and 1.00, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.00 for AHP support). Estimates of the association between staffing levels and mortality were stronger between-hospitals than within-hospitals, which were not statistically significant in a within–between random effects model.

Conclusions

In additional to medicine and nursing, AHP staffing levels may influence hospital mortality rates. Considering multiple staff groups simultaneously when examining the association between hospital mortality and clinical staffing levels is crucial.

Trial registration number

NCT04374812.