bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the contribution of aroma‐active and chiral compounds to different grade of Yashi Xiang teas using stir bar sorptive extraction
Authors: Xiao ZuoBing , Yang EnQing , Niu YunWei , Zhu JianCai
Published: July 2023

Yashi Xiang (YSX) is a flavor of Fenghuang Dancong tea and famous for its name and floral aroma, which is a type of semi‐fermented oolong tea. However, previous research into the aroma characteristics of YSX tea mostly focused on the aroma compounds, and little research on chiral compounds in YSX has been performed. Therefore, the current study was conducted to explore the aroma characteristics of YSX tea from the perspective of enantiomers of chiral compounds. A total of 12 enantiomers were determined in this study, among them, (R)‐(‐)‐α‐ionone, (S)‐(+)‐linalool, (1S,2S)‐(+)‐methyl jasmonate, (S)‐z‐nerolidol, (R)‐(+)‐limonene, and (S)‐(‐)‐limonene have important effects on the aroma components of YSX tea. The ER ratios of the enantiomers were different in samples of different grades. Therefore, this parameter can be used to identify the grade and authenticity of YSX tea.

Practical Application

The study illuminates the aroma characteristics of YSX tea from the perspective of enantiomers of chiral compounds, which have important effects on the aroma components of YSX tea. It established an ER ratio system to effectively distinguish the grade and authenticity of YSX tea by comparing the ER of YSX tea. Focusing on analyzing the chiral compounds in the aroma of YSX tea is helpful in providing a theoretical basis for the authenticity of the precious tea and improving of the quality of YSX tea products.
Evaluation and comparison of physicochemical properties, volatile substances, and microbial communities of leaf mustard (Brassica juncea var. multiceps) under natural and inoculated fermentation
Authors: Lingjuan Jiang , Yu Cao , Zeyuan Deng , Bing Zhang , Hongyan Li
Published: July 2023

Due to the uncontrolled fermentation process and unstable quality of naturally fermented leaf mustard, inoculated fermentation is receiving more attention. Here, the physicochemical properties, volatile compounds, and microbial community in leaf mustard under natural fermentation (NF) and inoculated fermentation (IF) were analyzed and compared. The contents of total acid, crude fiber, and nitrite of leaf mustard were measured. Headspace‐solid phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and orthogonal projection on latent structure–discriminant analysis were used to analyze the differences of volatile compounds in NF and IF leaf mustard. Moreover, Illumina MiSeq high‐throughput sequencing technology was employed to reveal the composition of microbiota. The results showed that the nitrite content in leaf mustard after IF (3.69 mg/kg) was significantly lower than that after NF (4.43 mg/kg). A total of 31 and 25 kinds of volatile components were identified in IF and NF, respectively. Among the detected compounds, 11 compounds caused the differences between IF and NF leaf mustard. The results of inter‐group difference analysis showed that there were significant differences in fungal flora between IF and NF samples. Saccharomycetes, Kazachstania, and Ascomycota were the landmark microorganisms in IF leaf mustard and the landmark microorganisms in NF were Mortierellomycota, Sordariomycetes, and Eurotiomycetes. The abundance of probiotics (such as Lactobacillus) in IF leaf mustard (51.22%) was higher than that in NF (35.20%) and the abundance of harmful molds (such as Mortierella and Aspergillus) was opposite. Therefore, IF leaf mustard showed the potential to reduce the content of nitrite and harmful molds and increase the beneficial volatile compounds and probiotics.

Practical Application

Leaf mustard of inoculated fermentation (IF) showed better fermented characteristics than natural fermentation in terms of lower nitrite content, greater beneficial volatile substances, and better potential for increasing probiotics and reducing harmful molds. These results provided a theoretical basis for IF leaf mustard and contributed to the industrial production of fermented leaf mustard.
Misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis of atypical autoimmune pancreatitis: Experience from clinical cases
Authors: Xu Zi‐Yang , Guan Jiao , Liang Ming‐Jun , Zhang Zheng‐Yun , Zhou Zun‐Qiang
Published: July 2023

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is a fibro‐inflammatory disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the pancreas. It is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs, including the bile ducts, kidneys, lungs, and other organs. However, due to its complex presentation, AIP is often challenging to diagnose, and misdiagnosis with pancreatic tumors can occur. In our study, we reviewed three cases of atypical AIP where patients had normal serum IgG4 levels, leading to initial misdiagnosis with pancreatic tumors. Delayed diagnosis resulted in irreversible pathologies such as retroperitoneal fibrosis. All three patients had bile duct involvement, and imaging findings were similar to those of tumors, further complicating the diagnosis. The correct diagnosis was confirmed only after diagnostic therapy. Our study aims to raise awareness of atypical AIP and improve diagnostic efficiency by analyzing the clinical characteristics of these patients.
TTC4 inhibits NLRP3 inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis by HSP70
Authors: Lu Hui , Lu Xin , Xie Qihua , Wan Honglai , Sun Yuyu
Published: July 2023

Objective

This experiment explored the function of TTC4 in rheumatoid arthritis inflammation and its possible mechanism.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were immunized intradermally with bovine type II collagen. Lipopolysaccharide induction was performed on RAW264.7 cells.

Results

The mRNA expression of TTC4 in articular tissue of mice with rheumatoid arthritis was downregulated. Sh‐TTC4 virus increased arthritis score, morphological change score, paw edema, and spleen index, as well as alkaline phosphatase level in mice with rheumatoid arthritis. Sh‐TTC4 virus increased the levels of inflammatory factors and MDA, and decreased anti‐oxidant factors in articular tissue of mice with rheumatoid arthritis. TTC4 reduced inflammation and oxidative stress in an in vitro model. TTC4 regulated HSP70 in a rheumatoid arthritis model. The inhibition of HSP70 reduced the effects of sh‐TTC4 gene in mice with rheumatoid arthritis. METTL3 reduced the stability of the TTC4 gene.

Conclusion

In this study, the TTC4 gene reduced oxidative response and inflammation in the rheumatoid arthritis model through the HSP70/NLRP3 pathway. Therefore, it can be concluded that TTC4 can be used as diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis.
Ireland: Political Developments and Data in 2022
Authors: ARLOW JONATHAN , O'MALLEY EOIN
Published: July 2023

Ireland in 2022 saw the return of normal politics after two years of the pandemic. The ebbing of the health crisis saw the emergence or re‐emergence of new crises. The invasion of Ukraine had an impact on Irish politics as there was a surge of refugees accommodated in Ireland and an increase in inflation. The government introduced measures to mitigate the impact of the cost‐of‐living crisis, but the growing population and a lag in construction activity caused the housing crisis to worsen. None of what the government sought to do was able to mitigate these problems in the short to medium term at least. By the end of the year, the pressure the number of refugees had put on housing services led to anti‐refugee protests, hitherto unknown in Ireland. Ireland also saw a new Taoiseach (Prime Minister), though the government remained substantively the same following the planned rotation of the head of government.
Residence in a Medicaid‐expansion state and receipt of alcohol screening and brief counseling by adults with lower incomes: Is increased access to primary care enough?
Authors: Phillips Aryn Z. , Karriker‐Jaffe Katherine J. , Bensley Kara M. K. , Subbaraman Meenakshi S. , Delk Joanne , Mulia Nina
Published: July 2023

Background

We investigate whether living in a state that expanded Medicaid eligibility is associated with receiving alcohol screening and brief counseling among nonelderly, low‐income adults and a subgroup with chronic health conditions caused or exacerbated by alcohol use.

Method

Data are from the 2017 and 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (N = 15,743 low‐income adults; n = 7062 with a chronic condition). We used propensity score‐weighted, covariate‐adjusted, modified Poisson regression to estimate associations between residence in a Medicaid‐expansion state and receipt of alcohol screening and brief counseling. Models estimated associations in the overall sample and chronic conditions subsample, as well as differential associations across sex, race, and ethnicity using interaction terms.

Results

Living in a state that expanded Medicaid eligibility was associated with being asked whether one drank (prevalence ratio (PR) = 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08, 1.22), but not with further alcohol screening, guidance about harmful drinking, or advice to reduce drinking. Among individuals with alcohol‐related chronic conditions, expansion state residence was associated with being asked about drinking (PR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.05, 1.20) and, among past 30‐day drinkers with chronic conditions, being asked how much one drank (PR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.04, 1.59) and about binge drinking (PR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.99). Interaction terms suggest that some associations differ by race and ethnicity.

Conclusions

Living in a state that expanded Medicaid is associated with a higher prevalence of receiving some alcohol screening at a check‐up in the past 2 years among low‐income residents, particularly among individuals with alcohol‐related chronic conditions, but not with the receipt of high‐quality screening and brief counseling. Policies may have to address provider barriers to delivery of these services in addition to access to care.
Laparoscopic repair of acquired rectourethral fistula by vesical peritoneal flap
Authors: Mouawad Christian , El Helou Elie , Dahboul Houssam , Akel Rhea , Chamaa Bilal , Aoun Rany , Kassar Serge , Osseis Michael , Noun Roger , Chakhtoura Ghassan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

A rectourethral fistula (RUF) is an infrequent complication that can be iatrogenic in most cases. Multiple surgical interventions were described for RUF repair including transsphincteric, transanal, transperineal, and transabdominal approaches. To this day, there is no consensus on a standardized surgery of choice for acquired RUF.

Materials and Surgical Technique

Our patient was diagnosed with RUF 4 weeks after undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection for midrectum adenocarcinoma, with failure of conservative treatment. A three‐port transabdominal approach was used to dissect the rectoprostatic space and close the fistula orifice on the anterior rectal wall. With the technical impossibility to develop an omental flap, the peritoneum on the posterior vesical wall was carefully dissected to form a rectangular flap pedicled by its inferior aspect. The harvested peritoneal flap was then anchored between the prostate and the rectum. Follow‐up imaging showed the absence of RUF, concurrently with total remission of RUF symptomatology.

Discussion

Management of acquired RUF can be challenging, especially after failure of conservative treatment. Laparoscopic repair of acquired RUF by vesical peritoneal flap is a valid option for a minimally invasive approach for the treatment of RUF.
Explaining Transmission Rate Variations and Forecasting Epidemic Spread in Multiple Regions with a Semiparametric Mixed Effects SIR Model
Authors: Buch David A. , Johndrow James E. , Dunson David B.
Published: July 2023

The transmission rate is a central parameter in mathematical models of infectious disease. Its pivotal role in outbreak dynamics makes estimating the current transmission rate and uncovering its dependence on relevant covariates a core challenge in epidemiological research as well as public health policy evaluation. Here, we develop a method for flexibly inferring a time-varying transmission rate parameter, modeled as a function of covariates and a smooth Gaussian process (GP). The transmission rate model is further embedded in a hierarchy to allow information borrowing across parallel streams of regional incidence data. Crucially, the method makes use of optional vaccination data as a first step toward modeling of endemic infectious diseases. Computational techniques borrowed from the Bayesian spatial analysis literature enable fast and reliable posterior computation. Simulation studies reveal that the method recovers true covariate effects at nominal coverage levels. We analyze data from the COVID-19 pandemic and validate forecast intervals on held-out data. User-friendly software is provided to enable practitioners to easily deploy the method in public health research.
Lobar quantification of pulmonary perfusion prior to minimally invasive lung reduction improves prediction of postprocedure outcomes: A pilot study
Authors: Subramanian Kritika , Muench Brett , Shostak Eugene , Coffey Amanda , Sawoszczyk Lady , Gao Fei , Leep Adam , Rajaram Ramya , Hornung John , O'Dwyer Elisabeth
Published: July 2023

Background

Endobronchial valve placement is a minimally invasive option for treatment of patients with severe emphysema, by reducing lung volumes in lobes with both poor ventilation and perfusion; ventilation is determined by emphysematous scores and perfusion by quantitative lung perfusion imaging. CT‐based fissure identifying artificial intelligence algorithms have recently demonstrated enhanced quantification of the perfusion in a 5‐lobar analysis. We hypothesized that this newly developed algorithm may offer greater utility in determining target treatment lobes by supplementing the radiographic risk stratification initiated by the conventional emphysematous scores alone.

Methods

Quantification images of 43 deidentified individuals underwent perfusion SPECT/CT with Tc99m Macro‐Aggregated Albumin (4mCi/148MBq intravenous) using both conventional zonal anatomy and AI augmented 5‐lobar analysis.

Analysis

Images were reviewed to demonstrate that the new algorithm was not inferior to standard of care imaging with zonal segmentation. A pilot subcohort analysis of 4 patients with severe emphysema who had pre‐endobronchial valve placement imaging demonstrated that an emphysema‐perfusion ratio greater than 3 was indicative of a potential target lobe.

Discussion

We conclude that 5‐lobar analysis in not inferior to conventional zonal analysis and allows the determination of emphysema‐to‐perfusion ratio. Preliminary review of a small subcohort suggests an emphysema‐to‐perfusion ratio greater than 3 for a lobe may clinically benefit in endobronchial valve placement. Further evaluation with prospective studies and larger sample sizes are recommended before clinical implementation.
Successful transplantation of LUCAS device assisted uncontrolled DCD kidneys with prolonged relative warm ischemia time: An underutilized option in North America
Authors: Nagaraju Santosh , Savilla Rachel , Moore Myla , Jones Alice , Africa Joseph
Published: July 2023

Approximately 25% of deceased donors in the United States are procured in a donation after circulatory death (DCD) setting. Successful transplant outcomes from uncontrolled DCD (uDCD) practices have been reported in multiple European programs. They utilize established protocols for uDCD procurement with normo‐thermic or hypothermic regional perfusion to reduce ischemic damage. Further, manual or mechanical chest compressions using extrinsic devices, such as the LUCAS device, are implemented to maintain circulation before organ retrieval. Currently, uDCDs are not a major part of DCD organ utilization in the United States. We report our experience with utilization of kidneys from uDCD with the use of the LUCAS device without normothermic or hypothermic regional perfusion. We transplanted four kidneys from three uDCD donors without utilization of in situ regional perfusion and with prolonged relative warm ischemia time (rWIT) (>100 min). All recipients had functional renal allografts and improved renal function after the transplant. To our knowledge, this is the 1st successful series reported in the United States of the utilization of kidneys from uDCDs without the utilization of in situ perfusion to maintain organ preservation with prolonged rWIT.
Dental and maxillofacial injuries associated with domestic violence against women in Israel: A report for 2011–2021
Authors: Levin Liran , Goldman Sharon , Lin Shaul , Radomislensky Irina , Savitsky Bella
Published: July 2023

Background/Aim

The WHO, in its 2002 report, indicated the dramatic worldwide increase in the incidence of intentional injuries affecting people of all ages and both sexes, but especially children, women, and the elderly. The aim of this study was to analyze dental and maxillofacial injuries associated with domestic violence against women in Israel between the years 2011–2021.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study based on data from the Israeli National Trauma Registry (INTR). The INTR provides comprehensive data on hospitalized patients from all six Level I trauma centers (TC) and 15 of the 20 Level II TCs in Israel. Women, ages 14 and older, injured and hospitalized due to domestic violence between 2011 and 2021 were identified.

Results

Between 2011 and 2021, there were 1818 cases of women ages 14 + that were hospitalized due to violence, excluding terror, occupational trauma, and attempted suicide. Out of these injuries, 753 cases were attributed to domestic violence, 537 were defined as non‐domestic violence and 528 were a result of a brawl/fight. Of the domestic violence cases, 5% (38) exhibited maxillofacial injuries compared to the non‐domestic violence cases where 6.2% (33) exhibited maxillofacial injuries and the brawl group where 5.7% (30) exhibited maxillofacial injuries. The most injured areas in domestic violence cases were the maxilla followed by the zygomatic bone and the mandible. Almost half of the domestic violence cases (47.7%) required surgical intervention during their hospitalization. The spouse was the perpetrator responsible for the domestic violence in the majority of the cases.

Conclusions

Dental professionals might be able, in some cases, to identify and report domestic violence signs and thus, better understanding of the specific characteristics of domestic violence related to traumatic injuries is important.
Understanding the role of gender and project characteristics in research funding evaluations
Authors: Foss Nicolai J. , Olsen Anders Ørding
Published: July 2023

Research shows that women are less successful than men in obtaining external funding for research projects. However, other research points to advantages of female leadership and suggests that women are capable of breaking glass ceilings in competitive contexts (e.g., promotions). We bridge these ideas by arguing that although women are disadvantaged in the funding process (e.g., as principal investigators or PIs), there may be advantages of female representation in research projects that compete for funding. We analyze a unique panel dataset based on all call texts and all applications to the “Cooperation” part of the EU FP7, a 2007–2013 EUR 53.2 billion program. Using fixed‐effects regressions, we find that projects with high female representation (or with female PIs) receive less favorable evaluations. However, this effect weakens as the relevant projects become more heterogeneous and radical. These findings are robust to a number of alternative specifications.
Cyclin D1 promotes radioresistance through regulation of RAD51 in melanoma
Authors: Im Hyuntaik , Lee Jeeyong , Lee Hae Jin , Kim Da Yeon , Kim Eun Ju , Yi Jae Youn
Published: July 2023

Melanoma is a notoriously radioresistant type of skin cancer. Elucidation of the specific mechanisms underlying radioresistance is necessary to improve the clinical efficacy of radiation therapy. To identify the key factors contributing to radioresistance, five melanoma cell lines were selected for study and genes that were upregulated in relatively radioresistant melanomas compared with radiosensitive melanoma cells determined via RNA sequencing technology. In particular, we focused on cyclin D1 (CCND1), a well known cell cycle regulatory molecule. In radiosensitive melanoma, overexpression of cyclin D1 reduced apoptosis. In radioresistant melanoma cell lines, suppression of cyclin D1 with a specific inhibitor or siRNA increased apoptosis and decreased cell proliferation in 2D and 3D spheroid cultures. In addition, we observed increased expression of γ‐H2AX, a molecular marker of DNA damage, even at a later time after γ‐irradiation, under conditions of inhibition of cyclin D1, with a response pattern similar to that of radiosensitive SK‐Mel5. In the same context, expression and nuclear foci formation of RAD51, a key enzyme for homologous recombination (HR), were reduced upon inhibition of cyclin D1. Downregulation of RAD51 also reduced cell survival to irradiation. Overall, suppression of cyclin D1 expression or function led to reduced radiation‐induced DNA damage response (DDR) and triggered cell death. Our collective findings indicate that the presence of increased cyclin D1 potentially contributes to the development of radioresistance through effects on RAD51 in melanoma and could therefore serve as a therapeutic target for improving the efficacy of radiation therapy.
A creep constitutive model for heterogeneous frozen clay soil considering the damage of cryostructure
Authors: Shi Sheng , Zhang Feng , Feng Decheng
Published: July 2023

In cold regions, the creep behavior of frozen soil is a crucial indicator for evaluating the stability of engineering foundations. The creep properties of frozen soil are more complex than unfrozen soil owing to its special cryogenic structures. In this research, a series of creep tests were conducted on the heterogeneous frozen clay soil under different deviatoric stresses, and the influence of deviatoric stress and structural features on its creep behaviors were analyzed. Based on the test results and fracture mechanics, the damage variable of heterogeneous frozen clay soil considering the effect of cryostructure was defined, and the sensitivity of parameters in damage variable were analyzed. By introducing the hardening variable and damage variable into the classical Nishihara model, a new creep constitutive model for heterogeneous frozen clay soil considering the fracture of cryostructure was established, the validity of the model was verified using test results, and the model parameters were analyzed.
The joy of the 11th International Fission Yeast Meeting in Hiroshima (POMBE2023 Hiroshima) after a long wait due to the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Toda Takashi , Kitamura Kenji , Kume Kazunori , Yukawa Masashi , Koyano Takayuki , Ueno Masaru
Published: July 2023

The 11th International Fission Yeast Meeting took place at Astel Plaza in Hiroshima, Japan, from May 28th to June 2nd, 2023. This highly anticipated gathering, originally scheduled for May 2021, had been postponed for 2 years due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Researchers from 21 countries, including 211 overseas and 157 domestic participants (overall gender ratio is roughly 60% male vs. 40% female), eagerly awaited the opportunity to meet in person, as virtual interactions had been the only means of communication during this challenging period. The meeting featured four kick‐off special lectures, 101 regular talks, and 152 poster presentations. Additionally, a discussion session on upfront frontier research in fission yeast provided an interactive platform for both speakers and attendees. Throughout the event, participants shared cutting‐edge knowledge, celebrated significant research findings, and relished the invaluable experience of an in‐person meeting. The vibrant and friendly atmosphere, characteristic of this esteemed international conference, fostered collaboration and reinforced the significance of studying this exceptional model organism. Undoubtedly, the outcomes of this meeting will greatly contribute to our understanding of complex biological systems, not only in fission yeast but also in general eukaryotes.
Formation mechanism of TiC/Al2O3 composite from porous Ti3AlC2 ceramics in 35 vol.% CO‐N2 atmosphere
Authors: Xiao Junli , Wei Yaowu , Peng Conghua , Zhou Siqi , Zhang Shaowei , Li Nan , Chen Junfeng
Published: July 2023

Thermal reaction and microstructure evolution of porous Ti3AlC2 ceramics in a graphite bed (65% N2 and 35% CO) between 1100 and 1500°C were investigated in this work. The main products of Ti3AlC2 in a graphite bed were titanium carbide and alumina. At 1100°C, a thin alumina layer formed on the Ti3AlC2 particles due to the outward diffusion of slight aluminum. As the temperature increased to 1300°C, more aluminum diffused outward from the Ti3AlC2 particles, and a partial of Ti3AlC2 transformed into titanium carbide. Consequently, the alumina layer formed on the surface of particles got thicker, and defects occurred inside the particles due to the Kirkendall effect. When the temperature was 1500°C, Ti3AlC2 was transformed entirely into alumina and titanium carbide, and visible pores were left inside the particles. The formation mechanism of TiC/Al2O3 composite from porous Ti3AlC2 ceramics in a graphite bed was proposed in detail.
Air‐breathing behavior in Heterotis niloticus fingerlings: Response to changes in oxygen, temperature, and exercise regimes
Authors: Adjei Henry Owusu , Laar Robert Yadama , Ofori‐Darkwah Prince , Xatse Emmanuel Xorla , Bediako Jedida Osei , Skov Peter Vilhelm , Obirikorang Kwasi Adu
Published: July 2023

Air‐breathing in fish is believed to have arisen as an adaptation to aquatic hypoxia. Although air‐breathing has been widely studied in numerous fish species, little is known about the obligate air‐breathing African bonytongue, Heterotis niloticus. We evaluated if abiotic factors and physical activity affect air‐breathing patterns in fingerlings. The air‐breathing frequency (fAB) and behavioral responses of H. niloticus fingerlings were assessed in response to environmental oxygen, temperature, and exhaustion and activity in a series of experiments. The air‐breathing behavior of H. niloticus fingerlings under optimum water conditions was characterized by swift excursions lasting less than 1 s to the air–water interface to gulp air. The intervals between air‐breaths were highly variable, ranging from 3 to 259 s. Body size only slightly affected fAB, while hypoxia, hyperthermia, and exercise stress significantly increased fAB. Progressive hypoxia from 17.69 to 2.17 kPa caused a ~2.5‐fold increase in fAB. Increasing temperatures to 27 and 32°C, from a baseline temperature of 22°C, significantly increased fAB from 0.4 ± 0.2 to 1.3 ± 0.5 and 1.6 ± 0.4 breaths min−1, respectively. Lastly, following exhaustive exercise, fAB increased up to 3‐fold. These observations suggest that H. niloticus fingerlings are very reliant on aerial oxygen, and their air‐breathing behavior is sensitive to environmental changes and activity levels.
Disparities in advance care planning among older US immigrants
Authors: Mindo‐Panusis Dallas , Sudore Rebecca L. , Cenzer Irena , Smith Alexander K. , Kotwal Ashwin A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Despite known racial disparities in advance care planning (ACP), little is known about ACP disparities experienced by US immigrants.

Methods

We used data from the 2016 wave of the Health and Retirement Study. We defined ACP engagement as self‐reported end‐of‐life (EOL) discussions, designation of a power of attorney (DPOA), documented living will, or “any” of the three behaviors. Immigration status was determined by respondent‐reported birth outside the United States. Time in the United States was calculated by subtracting the year of arrival in the United States from the survey year of 2016. We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate the association between ACP engagement and immigration status and the relationship of acculturation to ACP engagement, adjusting for sociodemographics, religiosity, and life expectancy.

Results

Of the total cohort (N = 9928), 10% were immigrants; 45% of immigrants identified as Hispanic. After adjustment, immigrants had significantly lower adjusted probability of any ACP engagement (immigrants: 74% vs. US‐born: 83%, p < 0.001), EOL discussions (67% vs. 77%, p < 0.001), DPOA designation (50% vs. 59%, p = 0.001) and living will documentation (50% vs. 56%, p = 0.03). Among immigrants, each year in the United States was associated with a 4% increase in the odds of any ACP engagement (aOR 1.04, 95% CI 1.03–1.06), ranging from 36% engaged 10 years after immigration to 78% after 70 years.

Conclusion

ACP engagement was lower for US immigrants compared to US‐born older adults, particularly for those that recently immigrated. Future studies should explore strategies to reduce disparities in ACP and the unique ACP needs among different immigrant populations.
Accuracy of equations for estimating resting energy expenditure in children and adolescents living with phenylketonuria
Authors: Mezzomo Thais R. , Dias Marcia Regina Messaggi G. , Vilela Regina M. , Pereira Rosana Marques
Published: July 2023

Background

Measuring resting energy expenditure (REE) in individuals living with phenylketonuria (PKU) using indirect calorimetry (IC) is unusual in healthcare facilities because it requires specific protocols and expensive equipment. Considering that determining REE is crucial for devising nutritional strategies for the management of PKU, the aim of this study was to identify the predictive equations that provide the best estimates of REE in children and adolescents living with PKU and to propose a predictive equation for determining REE in this population.

Methods

An REE concordance study was conducted with children and adolescents living with PKU. Anthropometric and body composition assessments using bioimpedance and REE assessment using IC were performed. The results were compared to 29 predictive equations.

Results

Fifty‐four children and adolescents were evaluated. The REE obtained using IC differed from all estimated REE, except Henry's equation for male children (p = 0.058). Only this equation showed good agreement (0.900) with IC. Eight variables were associated with the REE obtained using IC with emphasis on fat‐free mass (kg) (r = 0.786), weight (r = 0.775), height (r = 0.759) and blood phenylalanine (r = 0.503). With these variables, three REE equations were suggested, with R2 = 0.660, 0.635 and 0.618, respectively, and the third equation, which involves weight and height, showed adequate sample size for a statistical power of 0.942.

Conclusion

Most equations, not specific for individuals living with PKU, overestimate the REE of this population. We propose a predictive equation for assessing REE for children and adolescents living with PKU to be used in settings where IC is not available.
Recent advances in cholinergic mechanisms as reactions to toxicity, stress, and neuroimmune insults
Authors: Kovarik Zrinka , Moshitzky Gilli , Maček Hrvat Nikolina , Soreq Hermona
Published: July 2023

This review presents recent studies of the chemical and molecular regulators of acetylcholine (ACh) signaling and the complexity of the small molecule and RNA regulators of those mechanisms that control cholinergic functioning in health and disease. The underlying structural, neurochemical, and transcriptomic concepts, including basic and translational research and clinical studies, shed new light on how these processes inter‐change under acute states, age, sex, and COVID‐19 infection; all of which modulate ACh‐mediated processes and inflammation in women and men and under diverse stresses. The aspect of organophosphorus (OP) compound toxicity is discussed based on the view that despite numerous studies, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is still a vulnerable target in OP poisoning because of a lack of efficient treatment and the limitations of oxime‐assisted reactivation of inhibited AChE. The over‐arching purpose of this review is thus to discuss mechanisms of cholinergic signaling dysfunction caused by OP pesticides, OP nerve agents, and anti‐cholinergic medications; and to highlight new therapeutic strategies to combat both the acute and chronic effects of these chemicals on the cholinergic and neuroimmune systems. Furthermore, OP toxicity was examined in view of cholinesterase inhibition and beyond in order to highlight improved small molecules and RNA therapeutic strategies and assess their predicted pitfalls to reverse the acute toxicity and long‐term deleterious effects of OPs.

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How local, first‐line nurse leaders can positively influence nurse intent to stay and retention: A realist review
Authors: Cardiff Shaun , Gershuni Olga , Giesbergen‐Brekelmans Anne
Published: July 2023

Aims and Objectives

To explore evidence on how local nurse leaders can positively influence nurse retention.

Background

Nurse turnover and retention is a wicked problem with multiple interrelated factors and no one solution. Local nurse leadership has the potential to positively influence nurse intent to stay directly or via various factors.

Design

A realist review.

Methods

Having designed a search strategy based on a tentive programme theory, 1386 initial hits in three databases were screened and reduced to 48 research articles published between 2010–2021. The articles' content were coded for findings that supported, refined or contradicted four ContextMechanismOutcome configurations.

Results

Sufficient evidence was found to support four guiding lights encouraging local nurse leaders to: (1) foster relational connectedness; (2) enable professional practice autonomy; (3) cultivate healthful workplace cultures; (4) support professional growth and development. Mutuality and reciprocity is also key if leaders themselves are to experience wellbeing and growth.

Conclusions

Person‐centred, transformational and resonant local nurse leaders can positively influence nurse intent to stay within the workplace or organisation.

Reporting Method

Conform JCN guideline ‘What to cover in the main tekst by article type’ for reviews.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Depletion of circ_0088046 suppressed cell growth and motility of hepatocellular carcinoma via circ_0088046‐miR‐1299‐RTKN2 ceRNA pathway
Authors: Zhang Li , He Sai , Guan Hao , Zhao Yao , Zhang Di
Published: July 2023

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been verified to be important modulators and therapeutic targets of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aims to explore the role and mechanism of circ_0088046 in HCC progression. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), western blot and immunohistochemistry assays were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of circ_0088046, miR‐1299, Rhotekin 2 (RTKN2), Bax, Bcl‐2, E‐cadherin and Ki‐67. Cell proliferation was investigated by 5‐Ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) assay and cell colony formation assay. Cell apoptosis rate was measured by flow cytometry. Transwell migration and invasion assays were adopted to assess cell migration and invasion. The molecular target relationship between miR‐1299 and circ_0088046 or RTKN2 were analysed by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation assay. An animal experiment was conducted to demonstrate the effect of circ_0088046 on tumour formation in vivo. High levels of circ_0088046 and RTKN2, and low levels of miR‐1299 were displayed in HCC tissues and cells. Circ_0088046 absence repressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but boosted apoptosis of HCC cells. MiR‐1299 was a target of circ_0088046 and miR‐1299 inhibitor restored circ_0088046 silencing‐mediated inhibitory impacts on HCC cell malignancy. MiR‐1299 could directly target RTKN2, and overexpressed RTKN2 rescued the suppressive effects caused by miR‐1299 mimic. In addition, circ_0088046 silencing constrained tumour formation in vivo. Circ_0088046 contributed to HCC cell malignancy via modulating the miR‐1299/RTKN2 axis.
Carbon starvation following a decade of experimental drought consumes old reserves in Pinus edulis
Authors: Peltier Drew M. P. , Carbone Mariah S. , McIntire Cameron D. , Robertson Nathan , Thompson R. Alex , Malone Shealyn , LeMoine Jim , Richardson Andrew D. , McDowell Nate G. , Adams Henry D. , Pockman William T. , Trowbridge Amy M.
Published: July 2023

Shifts in the age or turnover time of non‐structural carbohydrates (NSC) may underlie changes in tree growth under long‐term increases in drought stress associated with climate change. But NSC responses to drought are challenging to quantify, due in part to large NSC stores in trees and subsequently long response times of NSC to climate variation.

We measured NSC age (Δ14C) along with a suite of ecophysiological metrics in Pinus edulis trees experiencing either extreme short‐term drought (−90% ambient precipitation plot, 2020–2021) or a decade of severe drought (−45% plot, 2010–2021). We tested the hypothesis that carbon starvation – consumption exceeding synthesis and storage – increases the age of sapwood NSC.

One year of extreme drought had no impact on NSC pool size or age, despite significant reductions in predawn water potential, photosynthetic rates/capacity, and twig and needle growth. By contrast, long‐term drought halved the age of the sapwood NSC pool, coupled with reductions in sapwood starch concentrations (−75%), basal area increment (−39%), and bole respiration rates (−28%).

Our results suggest carbon starvation takes time, as tree carbon reserves appear resilient to extreme disturbance in the short term. However, after a decade of drought, trees apparently consumed old stored NSC to support metabolism.
A promoter trap in transgenic citrus mediates recognition of a broad spectrum of Xanthomonas citri pv. citriTALEs, including in planta‐evolved derivatives
Authors: Shantharaj Deepak , Minsavage Gerald V. , Orbović Vladimir , Moore Gloria A. , Holmes Danalyn R. , Römer Patrick , Horvath Diana M. , Lahaye Thomas , Jones Jeffrey B.
Published: July 2023

Citrus bacterial canker (CBC), caused by Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (Xcc), causes dramatic losses to the citrus industry worldwide. Transcription activator‐like effectors (TALEs), which bind to effector binding elements (EBEs) in host promoters and activate transcription of downstream host genes, contribute significantly to Xcc virulence. The discovery of the biochemical context for the binding of TALEs to matching EBE motifs, an interaction commonly referred to as the TALE code, enabled the in silico prediction of EBEs for each TALE protein. Using the TALE code, we engineered a synthetic resistance (R) gene, called the Xcc‐TALE‐trap, in which 14 tandemly arranged EBEs, each capable of autonomously recognizing a particular Xcc TALE, drive the expression of Xanthomonas avrGf2, which encodes a bacterial effector that induces plant cell death. Analysis of a corresponding transgenic Duncan grapefruit showed that transcription of the cell death‐inducing executor gene, avrGf2, was strictly TALE‐dependent and could be activated by several different Xcc TALE proteins. Evaluation of Xcc strains from different continents showed that the Xcc‐TALE‐trap mediates resistance to this global panel of Xcc isolates. We also studied in planta‐evolved TALEs (eTALEs) with novel DNA‐binding domains and found that these eTALEs also activate the Xcc‐TALE‐trap, suggesting that the Xcc‐TALE‐trap is likely to confer durable resistance to Xcc. Finally, we show that the Xcc‐TALE‐trap confers resistance not only in laboratory infection assays but also in more agriculturally relevant field studies. In conclusion, transgenic plants containing the Xcc‐TALE‐trap offer a promising sustainable approach to control CBC.
PSW1, an LRR receptor kinase, regulates pod size in peanut
Authors: Zhao Kunkun , Wang Long , Qiu Ding , Cao Zenghui , Wang Kuopeng , Li Zhan , Wang Xiaoxuan , Wang Jinzhi , Ma Qian , Cao Di , Qi Yinyao , Zhao Kai , Gong Fangping , Li Zhongfeng , Ren Rui , Ma Xingli , Zhang Xingguo , Yu Feng , Yin Dongmei
Published: July 2023

Pod size is a key agronomic trait that greatly determines peanut yield, the regulatory genes and molecular mechanisms that controlling peanut pod size are still unclear. Here, we used quantitative trait locus analysis to identify a peanut pod size regulator, POD SIZE/WEIGHT1 (PSW1), and characterized the associated gene and protein. PSW1 encoded leucine‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinase (LRR–RLK) and positively regulated pod stemness. Mechanistically, this allele harbouring a 12‐bp insertion in the promoter and a point mutation in the coding region of PSW1 causing a serine‐to‐isoleucine (S618I) substitution substantially increased mRNA abundance and the binding affinity of PSW1 for BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE1‐ASSOCIATED RECEPTOR KINASE 1 (BAK1). Notably, PSW1HapII (super‐large pod allele of PSW1) expression led to up‐regulation of a positive regulator of pod stemness PLETHORA 1 (PLT1), thereby resulting in larger pod size. Moreover, overexpression of PSW1HapII increased seed/fruit size in multiple plant species. Our work thus discovers a conserved function of PSW1 that controls pod size and provides a valuable genetic resource for breeding high‐yield crops.
Cardiac interoception in infants: Behavioral and neurophysiological measures in various emotional and self‐related contexts
Authors: Weijs Marieke L. , Daum Moritz M. , Lenggenhager Bigna
Published: July 2023

Interoception, the perception of internal bodily signals, is fundamental to our sense of self. Even though theoretical accounts suggest an important role for interoception in the development of the self, empirical investigations are limited, particularly in infancy. Previous studies used preferential‐looking paradigms to assess the detection of sensorimotor and multisensory contingencies in infancy, usually related to proprioception and touch. So far, only one recent study reported that infants discriminated between audiovisual stimuli presented synchronously or asynchronously with their heartbeat. This discrimination was related to the amplitude of the infant's heartbeat evoked potentials (HEP), a neural correlate of interoception. In the current study, we measured looking preferences between synchronous and asynchronous visuocardiac (bimodal), and audiovisuocardiac (trimodal) stimuli as well as the HEP in conditions of different emotional contexts and with different degrees of self‐relatedness in a mirror‐like setup. While the infants preferred trimodal to bimodal stimuli, we did not observe the predicted differences between synchronous and asynchronous stimulation. Furthermore, the HEP was not modulated by emotional context or self‐relatedness. These findings do not support previously published results and highlight the need for further studies on the early development of interoception in relation to the development of the self.
Zombies Incorporated
Authors: Leffler Olof
Published: July 2023

How should we understand the relation between corporate agency, corporate moral agency and corporate moral patienthood? For some time, corporations have been treated as increasingly ontologically and morally sophisticated in the literature. To explore the limits of this treatment, I start off by redeveloping and defending areductiothat historically has been aimed at accounts of corporate agency which entail that corporations count as moral patients. More specifically, I argue that standard agents are due a certain type of moral concern, but corporate agents are not due that type of concern, so they are not agents of, at least, the standard type. Diagnosis: because corporations plausibly lack qualia, they are ‘zombie agents’ that mimic real agents. This explains why they are neither standard agents nor standard moral patients: they are not standard agents because they lack mental states, and because they lack experiences, they are, at best, morally notable rather than morally respectable. However, I then argue that we nevertheless have instrumental reasons to include them in our moral responsibility practices, both because that is what notability involves and bluffingly, and both when it comes to treating them as moral agents and as moral patients. Hence, we may treat corporations as part of our moral responsibility practices to a limited extent anyway.
Role of verbal autopsy in cancer registration: A mixed‐methods study from the population‐based cancer registry of Northern India
Authors: Khanna Divya , Budukh Atul , Sharma Priyanka , Shruti Tulika , Vishwakarma Rajesh , Sharma Anand N. , Bagal Sonali , Vikraman Saraswathy M. , Vaza Yagnik , Anand Akash , Chaturvedi Pankaj , Pradhan Satyajit
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To describe utilisation of verbal autopsy as one of the data collection approaches in cancer registration in an Indian setting. We aimed to estimate the proportion and epidemiological characteristics of malignancies identified by the Varanasi population‐based cancer registry (PBCR) using verbal autopsy between 2017 and 2019 and to develop a thematic network for implementing verbal autopsy.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional mixed‐methods study. Quantitative methods were applied to analyse information from PBCR proforma of the verbal autopsy‐confirmed cancers; qualitative methods were applied to evaluate verbal autopsy conducted by field staff from key informants. In‐depth interviews of field staff for the challenges and potential solutions during verbal autopsy were assessed.

Results

Of 6466 registered cancers, 1103 (17.1%) were verbal autopsy‐confirmed cancers, which had no other source of information. The majority of verbal autopsy cases were from vulnerable populations who were aged >50 years (721, 65.4%), female (607, 55.1%), from rural backgrounds (853, 77.3%), illiterate or just able to read and write (636, 57.7%), and from lower and middle‐income groups (823, 74.6%). Verbal autopsy helped provide information about symptoms and site of disease, diagnostic and treatment details, and disease status. Major challenges during verbal autopsy described by field staff were incomplete cancer treatment, destruction of medical records and non‐cooperation by the community and lack of support from the local workforce as cancer is not notifiable.

Conclusion

Verbal autopsy helped identify cancers that would have been missed during active case finding from available resources. The majority of verbal autopsy‐confirmed patients belonged to vulnerable populations. Non‐cooperation from community and local health systems was major challenge during verbal autopsy. Developing robust cancer awareness, patient navigation, and social support programmes will strengthen verbal autopsy. Integration of standardised and reproducible methods of verbal autopsy in cancer registry and digitalization of health information, especially in limited‐resource settings with weak vital registration, will facilitate completeness in cancer registration.