bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID‐19 intensity across U.S. states and the liquidity of U.S. equity markets
Authors: Baig Ahmed , Berkowitz Jason , DeLisle Ronald Jared , Griffith Todd
Published: January 2023

We study the effects of COVID‐19 intensity on equity market liquidity across U.S. states. We exploit cross‐sectional variation in cases and deaths to investigate any association with the deterioration of stock liquidity of firms whose headquarters or operations are in the corresponding state(s). Our motivation stems from several underlying economic channels such as order processing costs, inventory costs, and adverse selection costs. We find strong negative relations between pandemic intensity and various intra‐day liquidity measures. Our results are more pronounced for firms operating in states with more stringent containment and health measures and within industries with greater risk exposure.
Alterations of ATG4A and LC3B in neurons derived from Alzheimer's disease patients
Authors: Shirotani Keiro , Watanabe Kaori , Hatta Daisuke , Kutoku Yumiko , Ohsawa Yutaka , Sunada Yoshihide , Kondo Takayuki , Inoue Haruhisa , Iwata Nobuhisa
Published: January 2023

We investigated the alterations in autophagy‐related molecules in neurons differentiated from induced pluripotent stem cells obtained from patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Consistent with our previous microarray data, ATG4A protein was upregulated in the neurons derived from a familial AD patient with an APP‐E693Δ mutation who showed accumulation of intracellular amyloid β peptide (Aβ). This upregulation was reversed by inhibiting Aβ production, suggesting that the intracellular Aβ may be responsible for the upregulation of ATG4A. The LC3B‐II/LC3B‐I ratio, an index of autophagosome formation, was lower in the neurons derived from the AD patient with APP‐E693Δ as well as the neurons derived from other familial and sporadic AD patients. These findings indicate that dysregulation of autophagy‐related molecules may accelerate the pathogenesis of AD.
Exploring mandatory reporting in social care and social services in Sweden
Authors: Kjellberg Inger , Berg Karin , Österberg Torun
Published: January 2023

In Sweden, mandatory reporting in social services is regulated by the Social Services Act to protect service users and improve services. The aim of this article is to describe mandatory reports by staff and compare types of mistreatment, severity and actions across three areas of social services: elderly care, disability services, and individual and family care. All the reports written by staff and investigated by a designated official over a 1‐year period (n = 1105) in one of the largest regions in Sweden were retrieved, inductively coded and quantitatively analysed. The results showed that most of the reports related to unsafe behaviour and organisational issues. Of all the reports, 14% (n = 156) were deemed to be serious. Differences in assessing mistreatment are discussed in relation to incident reporting in health care. The need for new models of analysis for mandatory reporting in social care is highlighted.
Clinical interventions with various agents to prevent early childhood caries: A systematic review with network meta‐analysis
Authors: He Shuyang , Choong Elaine Kar Man , Duangthip Duangporn , Chu Chun Hung , Lo Edward Chin Man
Published: January 2023

Background

Dental caries is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among preschool children globally. Different preventive agents and combinations have been studied. However, the rank of the effectiveness of clinical interventions is equivocal.

Aim

To summarize and rank the effectiveness of clinical interventions using different agents for primary prevention of early childhood caries (ECC).

Design

Two reviewers independently searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library to identify randomized controlled trials with at least 12‐month follow‐up. The network meta‐analysis (NMA) on different agents was based on a random‐effects model and frequentist approach. Standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% CI of the caries increment were calculated in terms of either dmft or dmfs and used in the NMA. Caries incidences at the child level were compared using odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CI. The effectiveness of the agents was ranked using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA).

Results

After screening 3807 publications and selection, the NMA finally included 33 trials. These trials used either a single or combination of agents such as fluorides, chlorhexidine, casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate, probiotics, xylitol, and triclosan. Compared with control, fluoride foam (FF; SMD −0.69, 95% CI: −1.06, −0.32) and fluoride salt (F salt; SMD −0.66, 95% CI: −1.20, −0.13) were effective in preventing caries increment. Probiotic milk plus low fluoride toothpaste (PMLFTP; OR 0.34, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.77), FF (OR 0.48, 95% CI: 0.37, 0.63), fluoride varnish (FV; OR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.48, 0.81), and fluoride varnish plus high fluoride toothpaste (FVHFTP; OR 0.73, 95% CI: 0.57, 0.93) were effectively preventing caries incidence. According to the SUCRA, FF ranked first in preventing caries increment, whereas PMLFTP ranked first in preventing caries incidence.

Conclusion

Fluoride foam, F salt, PMLFTP, FV, and FVHFTP all effectively reduce caries increment or caries incidence in preschool children, but the evidence indicates low degree of certainty. Considering the relatively small number of studies, confidence in the findings, and limitations in the study, clinical practitioners and readers should exercise caution when interpreting the NMA results.
Lesion sterilization and tissue repair with chloramphenicol, tetracyline, zinc oxide/eugenol paste versus conventional pulpectomy: A 36‐month randomized controlled trial
Authors: Castro Marcus , Lima Marina , Lima Cacilda , Moura Marcoeli , Moura Joyce , Moura Lúcia
Published: January 2023

Background

Endodontic treatment of primary molars represents one of the challenges in pediatric dentistry. There is a lack of consensus in the literature about the endodontic techniques and filling paste for primary teeth with pulp necrosis.

Aim

To compare the effectiveness of the LSTR technique (lesion sterilization and tissue repair) with CTZ paste (chloramphenicol, tetracycline, zinc oxide and eugenol) and pulpectomy with ZOE paste (zinc oxide and eugenol) in the treatment of primary molars with pulp necrosis.

Design

Eighty‐eight primary molars with pulp necrosis from 70 children between the ages of 3 and 8 years were included. The teeth were randomized to the LSTR with CTZ paste group or pulpectomy with ZOE paste group. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were performed at 18, 24, 30 and 36 months.

Results

At 36 months, clinical success was 86.4% in LSTR with CTZ paste and 90.9% in pulpectomy with ZOE paste (p = .45). Radiographic success was 43.2% in both groups (p = 1.00). The overall success was 40.9% in LSTR with CTZ paste and 43.2% in pulpectomy with ZOE paste (p = 1.00).

Conclusion

After 36 months of evaluation, the effectiveness of the LSTR technique with CTZ paste and pulpectomy with ZOE paste was similar for the treatment of primary molars with pulp necrosis.
Mental health condition of caregivers affected metal health of burn injury patients
Authors: Qin Beibei , Li Xi , Zhang Han , Zhang Cuina , Zhao Linru
Published: January 2023

The present study aimed to explore the association between mental health condition of caregivers and mental health of burn injury patients. Totally 300 burn injury patients and 300 caregivers were enrolled. These two cohorts of patients were randomly allocated to study group and control group (150 patients and 150 caregivers in each group). The mental health condition of patients and caregivers was evaluated both before and after psychological interventions. There was a significant reduction of the self‐rating depression scale (SDS) and self‐rating anxiety scale (SAS) of patients in the study group and control group after intervention (28.23 ± 4.98 vs 32.21 ± 5.01, P < 0.001; 28.18 ± 5.01 vs 31.18 ± 5.04, P < 0.001). The corresponding indexes of caregivers showed similar results before (SDS: 47.03 ± 4.41 vs 46.98 ± 4.39, P = 0.922; SAS: 47.01 ± 4.31 vs 46.93 ± 4.35, P = 0.873) and after intervention (21.76 ± 4.23 vs 38.98 ± 4.09, P < 0.001; SAS: 21.02 ± 4.09 vs 38.65 ± 4.04, P < 0.001). The SDS score of patients in study group was positively correlated with the SDS and SAS score of caregivers (r = 0.418 and 0.218, P = 0.003 and 0.012). The SAS score of patients in the study group was also positively correlated with the SDS and SAS scores of caregivers (r = 0.107 and 0.761, P = 0.029 and 0.018). Multiple linear regression showed that age, education and time of care per day were the independent variables associated with mental health condition of caregivers in the study group (P < 0.05). Mental health condition of caregivers was closely related to the mental health of patients. Age, education and time of care per day were the independent variables associated with mental health condition of caregivers.
Crystallographic texture and phase structure induced excellent piezoelectric performance in KNN‐based ceramics
Authors: Gao Shuo , Li Peng , Qu Jiawei , Li Wei , Zhai Jiwei , Wang Feifei , Hao Jigong , Fu Peng , Pan Zhongbin , Bai Wangfeng
Published: January 2023

It is difficult to maintain strong piezoelectric properties over a wide temperature range in (K,Na)NbO3 (KNN)‐based ceramics owing to the polymorphic phase boundary (PPB). Here, we propose advantageously utilizing the synergistic effect of crystal orientation and phase structure to address this issue. The 〈0 0 1〉pc textured (1 − x)(K0.48Na0.52)(Nb0.96Sb0.04)O3–x(Bi0.5Ag0.5)ZrO3 (KNNS–xBAZ) ceramics with different phase structures were synthesized via the templated grain growth method. A high piezoelectric coefficient (d33) of 505 ± 25 pC/N, an electric field‐induced strain of 0.21%, and a superior temperature stability (d33 exhibited a high retention of ≥78% at the temperature up to 200°C; strain maintained within 5.7% change over a temperature range of 30–150°C) were simultaneously achieved in textured KNNS–0.03BAZ ceramics. The flattened Gibbs free energy induced by the R–O–T multiphase coexistence, the strong anisotropy of crystals, and the abundant nanodomains contributed to the enhanced piezoelectric properties. The contribution of the strong anisotropy of crystals in 〈0 0 1〉pc textured ceramics compensates for the deterioration of the piezoelectric properties caused by the phase structure deviation from the PPB with increasing temperature, which benefits the superior temperature stability of the textured KNNS–0.03BAZ ceramics. The previous merits prove that utilizing the synergistic effect of crystal orientation and phase structure is an effective strategy to boost the piezoelectricity and their temperature stability of KNN‐based ceramics.
A lifestyle pattern characterised by high consumption of sweet and salty snacks, sugar sweetened beverages and sedentary time is associated with blood pressure in families at risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus in Europe. The Feel4Diabetes Study
Authors: Basdeki Eirini D. , Karatzi Kalliopi , Arnaoutis Giannis , Makrilakis Konstantinos , Liatis Stavros , Cardon Greet , De Craemer Marieke , Iotova Violeta , Tsochev Kaloyan , Tankova Tsvetalina , Kivelä Jemina , Wikström Katja , Rurik Imre , Radó Sándorné , Miguel‐Berges María L. , Gimenez‐Legarre Natalia , Moreno‐Aznar Luis , Manios Yannis
Published: January 2023

Background

Individuals from families at high‐risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are also at high risk for hypertension (HTN) and cardiovascular disease. Studies identifying lifestyle patterns (LPs) combining dietary, physical activity or sedentary variables and examining their possible role with respect to developing blood pressure (BP) are limited. The present study aimed to examine the association of different LPs with BP levels in families at high risk for T2DM in Europe.

Methods

In total, 1844 adults (31.6% males) at high‐risk for T2DM across six European countries were included in this cross‐sectional study using data from the baseline assessment of the Feel4Diabetes Study. BP measurements and dietary and physical activity assessments were conducted, and screen times were surveyed. LPs were revealed with principal component analysis of various data regarding diet, physical activity, screen time and smoking.

Results

Three LPs were identified. LP3 (high consumption of sweet and salty snacks, sugar sweetened soft drinks and juices, and high amount of screen time) was positively associated with diastolic BP (B, 0.52; 95% confidence interval = 0.05–0.99) and the existence of HTN (odds ratio = 1.12; 95% confidence interval = 1.00–1.25). Participants in the highest tertile of LP3 spent mean 3 h of screen time, consumed 1.5 portions of sweet and/or salty snacks and 1 L of soft drinks on a daily basis, were associated with 12% higher risk of HTN.

Conclusions

Focusing on the combination of eating and lifestyle behaviours may more accurately identify, and therefore guide preventive measures tailored to the specific needs of high‐risk populations.
Dyadic effects of interpersonal perception on the quality of couple relationships: Idealization and accuracy matter
Authors: Salla Marta , Feixas Guillem
Published: January 2023

Interpersonal perceptions have an impact on the quality of couple relationships but we want to examine the putative moderating role of gender considering personal meanings as the target of perception. We employed the Couple's Grid to measure interpersonal perception based on personal constructs and the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model (pooled regression) to analyze the mutual effects of partners' observations. We explore the dyadic effects of seven variables of interpersonal perception on relationship quality in a sample of 26 Spanish opposite‐sex couples. Idealization of the partner was associated with one's own and partner's relationship quality (actor and partner effects), while being accurate in the perception of the partner's self‐image was positively related to men's relationship quality but negatively related to women's (actor effects). The findings stimulate the existing debate regarding the benefits of being accurate or biased in a relationship and the need to take into account gender differences for guiding therapeutic interventions.
Electromagnetic field for supramaximal muscle stimulation: A retrospective study of safety, efficacy, and patient satisfaction in Brazil
Authors: Sant'Ana Estela , Meleck Michelle , Ferrari Priscila , Padovan Rogerio , Camargo Carla , Godoi Silvana , de Assis Lívia
Published: January 2023

Background

Currently, even individuals who do physical activity regularly have some degree of dissatisfaction with their own bodies. The electromagnetic field for supramaximal muscle contraction has been the subject of research. High‐intensity supramaximal muscle stimulation (HI‐SMS) is a non‐invasive technology used to strengthen, firm, and tone the abdominal muscles, arms, buttocks, and thighs and has been indicated for aesthetic purposes.

Aims

The present study aimed to examine the safety and efficacy of HI‐SMS used in the abdominal muscles of patients through the analysis of clinical evaluation, biochemical serum profile, and patient satisfaction with the procedure.

Patients/Methods

This is retrospective non‐randomized and non‐controlled study collected in a private clinic; all data from healthy participants (n = 25), aged between 18 and 55 years, were compiled and analyzed. All received eight 30 min sessions of electromagnetic field ONIX HI‐SMS (intensity of the 90%–100%) located in abdominal, twice a week with intervals of 2–3 days.

Results

The results show that BMI, fat thickness, and waist circumference improved the body contour after the treatment. There was no statistical difference in the data referring to the values of AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, cholesterol, LDL‐C, VLDL‐C, HDL‐C, glycemia, LDH, CK, and IL‐6. However, there was a reduction of “non‐esterified” free fatty acids when compared to baseline. This treatment provided high levels of tolerance, comfort, and high level of satisfaction.

Conclusions

Thus, it can be suggested that the treatment with HI‐SMS in abdominal muscles proves to be a safe technology with potential for non‐invasive therapy for aesthetic purposes.
Efficacy of topical vitamin D combined with microneedling in the treatment of vitiligo: A comparative study
Authors: Salem Maha Wafic , Adel Abd El Azim Amira , Galal Sara Ahmed
Published: January 2023

Background

Vitiligo is a depigmenting disorder caused by the destruction of melanocytes by various mechanisms which affect melanocyte function and survival. Different therapeutic approaches for vitiligo include nonsurgical and surgical methods but effective therapy is still challenging. There are few studies that suggest the role of vitamin D analogs in the repigmentation process with encouraging results. To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the effect of topical vitamin D (cholecalciferol) combined with microneedling in the treatment of depigmented patches of vitiligo.

Aim of the Work

Evaluate the effect of microneedling alone versus microneedling with topical vitamin D in the treatment of vitiligo.

Patients and Methods

A prospective comparative clinical trial was carried out on 25 patients with stable vitiligo; every patient had at least two patches; the first patch was treated with microneedling alone. The other patch was treated with microneedling combined with topical cholecalciferol.

Results

Good‐to‐excellent response was detected in 52% of the patches treated with microneedling topical cholecalciferol, while only in 40% of the patches treated with microneedling alone. The improvement was higher in combined treatment with no significant difference between both groups.

Conclusion

Topical cholecalciferol is a relatively effective and safe alternative in the treatment of stable vitiligo and its combination with microneedling increases its efficacy.
Evaluation of botulinum toxin type A for treating post burn hypertrophic scars and keloid in children: An intra‐patient randomized controlled study
Authors: Tawfik Abeer Attia , Ali Rama Ahmad
Published: January 2023

Background

Consequently, the management of post burn hypertrophic scars and keloid in children are a great challenge for the physicians, parents, and children themselves.

Purpose of the Study

To assess the efficacy and safety of treating hypertrophic and keloid scars with botulinum toxins injections.

Patients and Methods

This is a randomized intra‐patient comparative study was conducted on 15 children with post burn hypertrophic and keloid scars. Children were randomized to receive Intralesional injection of botulinum toxins on one part of the hypertrophic scar/keloid where the other part was left as a control. The assessment of clinical improvement was measured by the Vancouver scar scale (VSS) and by skin analysis camera system. Sessions were performed every month for 6 months.

Results

Clinical and statistical dramatic improvement in the vascularity, pliability, and height of the lesions which have been injected with neuronox. Evaluation of the lesions by the Antera camera has proven marked changes in the vascularity and height. There was no correlations between Vancouver score improvement and variables such as the age, sex, skin type, and duration and lesion type.

Conclusions

The botulinum toxins proved its efficacy and safety in treatment of hypertrophic scars and keloid in children. It improved the associated itching and pain. Moreover it improves the pliability, erythema, and thickness of the scars.
Use of nasal septal bone to straighten septal L‐Strut in correction of east Asian short nose: A retrospective study
Authors: An Yang , Shu Fan , Xie Lifeng , Zhen Yonghuan , Li Xiao , Li Yixin
Published: January 2023

Background

The perpendicular plate of ethmoid (PPE) was used to correct short noses in rhinoplasty in Asians, but the safe harvest of the plate and the assessment of its clinical application has been perplexing to plastic surgeons.

Aims

To explore how to safely cut the perpendicular plate of ethmoid bone and evaluate its application effect.

Patients/Methods

A finite element model was established to guide the clinical operation. A total of 30 patients with short noses were selected. Among them, 15 patients used autologous septal cartilage to lengthen the nasal tip, and 15 patients used the PPE to strengthen the L‐shape nasal septum. The differences in the esthetic parameters of the nose, complications, and patients' satisfaction were compared between the two groups.

Results

Significant differences were noted in the nasal dorsal length (p = 0.001), Goode's ratio (p = 0.001), and nasofrontal angle (p = 0.003) after rhinoplasty, and no significant differences were noted in any of the esthetic parameters between the two groups. The symptoms of nasal obstruction in the experimental group were significantly lighter than those in the control group (p = 0.04). There was no statistically significant difference in the doctors' assessment of outcomes between the two groups (p = 0.48).

Conclusion

The safest region to harvest the PPE is in the middle and lower third. Rhinoplasty improves the esthetics of the patient's nose. The PPE used to strengthen the L‐shape nasal septum structure has a smaller probability of nasal septal deviation with the time in Asian short noses.
Anatomic evaluation of the normal variants of the arteries of face using color Doppler ultrasonography: Implications for facial aesthetic procedures
Authors: Khorasanizadeh Faezeh , Delazar Sina , Gheidari Omid , Daneshpazhooh Maryam , Balighi Kamran , Ehsani Amir Houshang , Emadi Seyed Nasser , Sadeghinia Ali , Mahmoudi Hamidreza
Published: January 2023

Background

Knowledge of normal facial vascular variations could prevent catastrophic complications of cosmetic procedures as well as providing a guide for surgical planning. Color Doppler ultrasound is a safe and noninvasive method for real time vascular evaluation.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the normal variations of the facial, angular, transverse facial, supratrochlear and supraorbital arteries in a sample of normal individuals.

Methods

Normal individuals referred for dermal filler injection to the tertiary dermatologic center, were selected. Patients who were smoker or had a history of facial filler injection, facial surgery, or trauma were excluded from the study. Facial artery at three levels as well as angular, supratrochlear, supraorbital, and transverse facial arteries were evaluated by an 18 MHz ultrasound linear probe regarding their distance from facial reference lines and landmarks, and also their depths in various regions of face.

Results

A total number of 43 individuals were evaluated in this study. Thirty‐one (72.1%) were women. The number of absent facial artery was zero in level one, three (3.48%) in level two, and nine (10.46%) in level three. The angular artery was absent in 10 (11.62%) participants. The transverse facial artery was absent in 27 (31.39%) assessed individuals. Distance from reference lines at level 2 and 3 of facial artery and its depth at level 2 were significantly different between left and right side (p‐values: <0.001, 0.01, and 0.03, respectively). No significant difference was seen between depth and distance of two sides for angular and transverse facial arteries. The comparison of the depths and distances from the reference lines of the assessed arteries between two sexes revealed only a significantly greater value of facial artery distance in level 1 in males (p‐value: 0.001). BMI was also significantly correlated with the depth of facial artery in level 2 (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.471, p‐value = 0.002) and level 3 (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.357, p‐value = 0.03) and the distance of the facial artery in level 1 (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.333, p‐value = 0.029).

Conclusions

Color Doppler ultrasound could be used to map the arteries of face to prevent vascular complications and safely guide cosmetic procedures.
Use of point‐of‐care subepidermal moisture devices to detect localised oedema and evaluate pressure injury risk: A scoping review
Authors: McLaren‐Kennedy Annette , Chaboyer Wendy , Carlini Joan , Latimer Sharon
Published: January 2023

Aims and Objectives

To map current literature on bedside clinicians' use of point‐of‐care subepidermal moisture devices to identify increased pressure injury risk.

Background

Pressure injuries are a substantial healthcare burden. Localised oedema occurs before visible or palpable changes, and therefore is a biomarker of increased pressure injury risk. Novel bedside technologies that detect localised oedema may aid early pressure injury preventative practices.

Design

A scoping review.

Methods

Arksey and O'Malley's six‐step framework and the PRISMA‐ScR guidelines guided this scoping review. CINAHL Complete, Embase, SCOPUS, Cochrane (wounds) and PubMed databases were searched for primary research and quality improvement projects published in English between 2008–2022. Included studies focused on clinicians' bedside use of subepidermal moisture devices to quantify localised oedema and pressure injury risk. The PAGER framework supported narrative synthesis of the extracted data.

Results

Nine studies were selected from 1676 sources. Two point‐of‐care subepidermal moisture devices were identified in clinical use, largely by nurses. Inconsistent use and interpretations revealed significant knowledge gaps in clinical practice. Additionally, no included studies engaged patients or the public in their design.

Conclusions

Nurses recognise the value of objective measures in determining the risk of pressure injury and are the primary end‐users of point‐of‐care subepidermal moisture devices. However, standardising procedural instructions and interpretive criteria to guide preventative measures requires further research.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

International pressure injury clinical practice guidelines advocate for subepidermal moisture devices as an adjunct to routine clinical skin assessment, although little is known about bedside use. This scoping review reveals low adoption of such devices and the need to develop standardised procedures in their use and interpretation.

Registration

Open Science DOI https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/AB6Y5—7th of March 2022.
The role of rectal ultrasound in children with functional constipation
Authors: Hamdy Ahmed M , Sakr Hossam M , Boules Ireny S , Awad Yosra M M
Published: January 2023

Aim

The study aimed primarily to compare the transverse rectal diameter in children with functional constipation (FC) and children without constipation in different age groups, and between cases of constipation at baseline and after treatment. Secondary aim was to determine factors that could affect the transverse rectal diameter.

Methods

A controlled prospective study, including a total of 100 children between the ages of 2 and 11 years, who were divided into 50 patients suffering from constipation according to Rome IV criteria and 50 age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Transverse rectal diameter was measured at presentation, and after 3 months of laxative therapy and behavioural modification.

Results

Initial rectal diameter was significantly different between cases (3.55 cm (interquartile range, IQR), 3.2–4) and controls (2.3 cm (IQR, 1.8–2.5)), P value < 0.001, and it was also significantly different between those above and below 4 years, so a separate cut‐off point for diagnosis of constipation was suggested being >3 cm for the former and >2.5 cm for the latter. After 3 months of follow‐up, rectal diameter significantly reduced to become 2.6 (IQR, 2‐2.8), P value < 0.001. Duration of symptoms positively correlated with rectal diameter.

Conclusions

Ultrasound measurement of rectal diameter is an important tool to diagnose and follow‐up functional constipation in children. Different values of rectal diameter are found between those above and below 4 years of age.
Evidence for ecotone speciation across an African rainforest‐savanna gradient
Authors: Freedman Adam H. , Harrigan Ryan J. , Zhen Ying , Hamilton Alison M. , Smith Thomas B.
Published: January 2023

Accelerating climate change and habitat loss make it imperative that plans to conserve biodiversity consider species' ability to adapt to changing environments. However, in biomes where biodiversity is highest, the evolutionary mechanisms responsible for generating adaptative variation and, ultimately, new species are frequently poorly understood. African rainforests represent one such biome, as decadal debates continue concerning the mechanisms generating African rainforest biodiversity. These debates hinge on the relative importance of geographic isolation versus divergent natural selection across environmental gradients. Hindering progress is a lack of robust tests of these competing hypotheses. Because African rainforests are severely at‐risk due to climate change and other anthropogenic activities, addressing this long‐standing debate is critical for making informed conservation decisions. We use demographic inference and allele frequency‐environment relationships to investigate mechanisms of diversification in an African rainforest skink,Trachylepis affinis, a species inhabiting the gradient between rainforest and rainforest‐savanna mosaic (ecotone). We provide compelling evidence of ecotone speciation, in which gene flow has all but ceased between rainforest and ecotone populations, at a level consistent with infrequent hybridization between sister species. Parallel patterns of genomic, morphological, and physiological divergence across this environmental gradient and pronounced allele frequency‐environment correlation indicate speciation is mostly probably driven by ecological divergence, supporting a central role for divergent natural selection. Our results provide strong evidence for the importance of ecological gradients in African rainforest speciation and inform conservation strategies that preserve the processes that produce and maintain biodiversity.
Determinants of increased nursing workload in the COVID‐era: A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data
Authors: Lucchini Alberto , Villa Marta , Del Sorbo Arianna , Pigato Irene , D'Andrea Luca , Greco Matteo , Chiara Colombo , Cesana Matteo , Rona Roberto , Giani Marco
Published: January 2023

Background

COVID‐19 is associated with increased nursing workload, therefore a high nurse‐to‐patient ratio would be required.

Aim

To analyse difference in nursing workload, as expressed with the Nursing Activities Score (NAS), between COVID‐19 patients versus control patients without COVID‐19 disease (NCOVID‐19 group) in an Italian Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) centre.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data, enrolling consecutive patients admitted to a general Intensive Care Unit, between 1st May 2019 and 28th February 2021. A multivariate analysis was then performed to assess if COVID‐19 disease was an independent predictor of higher NAS and to assess which other factors and procedures are independently associated with increased workload.

Results

We enrolled 574 patients, of which 135 (24%) were in the COVID‐19 group and 439 (76%) in the NCOVID‐19 group. The average NAS was higher in the COVID‐19 group (79 ± 11 vs. 65 ± 15, T = −10.026; p < 0.001). Prone positioning, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) and ECMO were used more frequently in the COVID‐19 group. A higher fraction of patients in the COVID group showed colonization from multidrug resistant bacteria. COVID‐19 group had a higher duration of mechanical ventilation and longer ICU stay. The COVID‐19 diagnosis was independently associated with a higher NAS. Other independent predictors of higher NAS were the use of prone positioning and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Colonization from multidrug resistant bacteria and ECMO support were not independently associated with higher NAS.

Conclusions

The higher nursing workload in COVID‐19 patients is mainly due to specific procedures required to treat the most hypoxemic patients, such as prone positioning. Colonization with multidrug resistant bacteria and ECMO support were not independently associated with a higher NAS.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Higher workload in COVID‐19 patients was due to specific interventions, such as prone positioning and CRRT, with the related nursing activities, as continuous presence at patient's bed, mobilization, positioning and complex hygienic procedures.
Protocol and application of basal erythrocyte transketolase activity to improve assessment of thiamine status
Authors: Jones Kerry S. , Parkington Damon A. , Bourassa Megan W. , Cerami Carla , Koulman Albert
Published: January 2023

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential micronutrient required as a cofactor in many metabolic processes. Clinical symptoms of thiamine deficiency are poorly defined, hence biomarkers of thiamine status are important. The erythrocyte transketolase activity coefficient (ETKac) is a sensitive measure of thiamine status, but its interpretation may be confounded where the availability of the transketolase enzyme is limited. Basal ETK activity per gram of hemoglobin provides a complementary biomarker of thiamine status; however, its measurement and calculation are poorly described. Here, we describe in detail the assessment of basal ETK activity, including the calculation of path length in microplates and the molar absorption coefficient of NADH specific to the assay, and the measurement of hemoglobin in sample hemolysates. To illustrate the application of the methods, we present ETKac and basal ETK activity from women in The Gambia and UK. In conclusion, we present a clear protocol for the measurement of basal ETK activity that will permit the harmonization of methods to improve replication between laboratories.
Exploring the genetics of rhythmic perception and musical engagement in the Vanderbilt Online Musicality Study
Authors: Gustavson Daniel E. , Coleman Peyton L. , Wang Youjia , Nitin Rachana , Petty Lauren E. , Bush Catherine T. , Mosing Miriam A. , Wesseldijk Laura W. , Ullén Fredrik ,   23 and Me Research Team, Below Jennifer E. , Cox Nancy J. , Gordon Reyna L.
Published: January 2023

Uncovering the genetic underpinnings of musical ability and engagement is a foundational step for exploring their wide‐ranging associations with cognition, health, and neurodevelopment. Prior studies have focused on using twin and family designs, demonstrating moderate heritability of musical phenotypes. The current study used genome‐wide complex trait analysis and polygenic score (PGS) approaches utilizing genotype data to examine genetic influences on two musicality traits (rhythmic perception and music engagement) in N = 1792 unrelated adults in the Vanderbilt Online Musicality Study. Meta‐analyzed heritability estimates (including a replication sample of Swedish individuals) were 31% for rhythmic perception and 12% for self‐reported music engagement. A PGS derived from a recent study on beat synchronization ability predicted both rhythmic perception (β = 0.11) and music engagement (β = 0.19) in our sample, suggesting that genetic influences underlying self‐reported beat synchronization ability also influence individuals’ rhythmic discrimination aptitude and the degree to which they engage in music. Cross‐trait analyses revealed a modest contribution of PGSs from several nonmusical traits (from the cognitive, personality, and circadian chronotype domains) to individual differences in musicality (β = −0.06 to 0.07). This work sheds light on the complex relationship between the genetic architecture of musical rhythm processing, beat synchronization, music engagement, and other nonmusical traits.
Approaching literary connectivity: Early reflections on a Shared Reading intervention in the light of postcritical thought
Authors: Pihl Marie‐Elisabeth Lei , Kristensen Mette Marie , Folker Anna Paldam , Simonsen Peter
Published: January 2023

During recent decades, numerous studies have examined uses of art and literature in the context of health care and preventive interventions. In a recent, large‐scale review of current evidence within the field, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that art and culture are vital resources for health promotion, and should be included in health care programs and initiatives to a greater extent than is the case today (Fancourt & Finn, 2019). This article zooms in on “Shared Reading,” a literature‐based intervention developed by the Reader Organization. More specifically, we look at a Danish Shared Reading project for male seniors—“Read, Man!”—that aims to reduce loneliness and isolation among men in the age group of 65–75 in view of the fact that men of this age range have increased risk of developing depressive symptoms in connection with retirement (Noh, Kwon, Lee, Oh, & Kim, 2019). A systematic analysis of the project's data has yet to be undertaken. During this early stage, however, we describe the project and tentatively approach its data and potential health benefits while drawing on the affordances of postcritical thinking and an analysis centered on what we call literary connectivity.
Mother–child relationship quality from preschool to adolescence: Variation by maternal education
Authors: Nomaguchi Kei , Allen Amira
Published: January 2023

Using longitudinal data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (N = 1088), we examine changes in maternal perception of closeness and conflict in the mother–child relationship from the child's preschool to adolescent years, with attention to variation by maternal education. Analyses using individual growth models show that mother–child closeness increases, while mother–child conflict decreases, from preschool to first grade. From first grade to age 15, mother–child closeness decreases, while mother–child conflict increases, both gradually. The decrease in mother–child conflict from preschool to first grade and the increases in mother–child conflict from first to fifth grade, sixth grade, and age 15 are less steep for mothers with a college degree than for mothers without a college degree. These findings underscore the importance of examining changes in parent–child relationships using longitudinal data across children's developmental stages and their variations by parental social and economic status.
Minimum spanning tree dynamic programming stereo‐matching method based on superpixels
Authors: Wang Jingxue , Xu Zhenghui
Published: January 2023

The minimum spanning tree (MST) stereo‐matching method is an information‐infiltration process. The difference in edge attributes of an MST can cause the edge‐expansion phenomenon, which affects the matching accuracy. To accurately recover image‐depth information, a dynamic‐programming stereo‐matching method based on the MST was proposed. First, the colour Birchfield Tomasi cost‐calculation method based on image adaptive colour information was proposed to obtain stable initial cost values. Second, the image was segmented into superpixel regions using the simple linear iterative clustering algorithm. The pixel‐ and region‐level MSTs were then constructed. Next, combined with the idea of dynamic programming, the MST cost‐aggregation process was re‐deduced. On this basis, the aggregate cost values of the two MSTs were obtained. Finally, the aggregate cost values were combined adaptively to acquire the high‐precision smooth disparity map. The Middlebury 2014 dataset was used for the experiments. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method can effectively improve the accuracy of stereo‐matching.
Molecular Effects of Silicon on Arabidopsis thaliana Seedlings under UV‐B Stress
Authors: Celayir Tuğçe , Yeni Oğuzhan , Yeşildirek Yağmur Vecide , Arıkan Burcu , Kara Neslihan Turgut
Published: January 2023

Silicon‐plant interaction studies have shown that silicon reduces the harmful effects of stress in plants. Ultraviolet‐B (UV‐B) radiation, one of the abiotic stress affecting plants, poses a severe problem due to global warming. In this context, it is crucial to examine silicon's effects on UV‐B radiation stress at the molecular level. The experiments were carried out on 17 days old Arabidopsis seedlings that were treated with 800 μWatt cm−2 doses of UV‐B for 60 min and harvested on the 28th day. 1 mM orthosilicic acid was applied to the in vitro plant tissue culture for experimental groups. According to the results of the osmolyte accumulation analyses, silicon has been shown to play a role in the osmotic stress response. Gene expression levels of DGK2, CHS, FLC, RAD51, and UVR8 were measured via qPCR, and it has been shown that silicon interacts with these genes under UV‐B radiation stress. The result of genomic DNA methylation analysis demonstrated that silicon might affect DNA methylation levels by increasing the 5‐mC percentage compared with the control group. This study focused on the molecular effects of silicon application. It supports silicon–plant interaction research by demonstrating that silicon might affect UV‐B response at the molecular level.
Frailty and polypharmacy in the community‐dwelling elderly with multiple chronic diseases
Authors: Chuang Yuan N. , Chen Chia C. , Wang Chin J. , Chang Yu S. , Liu Yi H.
Published: January 2023

Background

Both multi‐morbidity (MM) and polypharmacy (PP) are common in the elderly and pose a challenge for health and social care systems. However, high‐quality patient‐centred care requires context‐bound understanding of the patterns and use of medications in those with MM. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of PP in community‐dwelling elderly, and the factors associated with MM, PP, excessive polypharmacy (EPP), and the types of drugs used.

Methods

We analysed data of 164 community‐dwelling subjects aged ≥60 years from January to December 2020 at a general hospital in a rural area of Taiwan. MM was defined as >4 diagnoses of chronic health conditions. Non‐polypharmacy (NP), PP, and EPP were defined as <5, 5–8, and >8 prescriptions, respectively. Other variables including basic activities of daily living (BADL), severity of frailty, depressive mood, screening for intellectual impairment, and nutritional status were also analysed.

Results

Of the 164 participants, 34.8% had >4 diagnoses, 66.5% had PP, and 26.2% had EPP. The patients with >4 diagnoses had worse performance in BADL, higher levels of frailty, and more prescriptions than those with fewer diagnoses. The EPP group had worse performance in BADL, a higher level of frailty, more comorbidities, and higher prevalences of diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease compared to the NP and PP groups. After adjusting for covariates, we further found a higher number of medications associated with having more comorbidities, and a higher level of frailty associated with having a greater number of medications.

Conclusion

We found relationships between frailty and PP, and between PP and MM, but frailty did not associate with MM. Since frailty, PP, and MM may be viewed as an inevitable trinity of ageing, reducing PP could be a method to both prevent frailty and disentangle this trinity in the elderly.
Running red lights: Risk recognition versus follow‐up implementation in the case of Germany's pandemic preparation
Authors: Beck Matthias , Sheppard Gail
Published: January 2023

The discrepancy between formal arrangements to ensure health security, as assessed in the Global Health Security Index, and COVID‐19 outcomes points to a broader problem where formal risk recognition is de‐coupled from potentially resource‐intensive follow‐up policy implementation. Germany is an extreme example of this. Pre‐COVID‐19, Germany's Federal Office of Civilian Protection conducted two pandemic preparation exercises based on scenarios which closely mirrored the current COVID‐19 pandemic: (a) a multi‐jurisdictional, multi‐agency crisis management exercise assuming a global influenza pandemic and (b) a joint federal and expert‐agency based risk‐analysis assuming the outbreak of a modified severe acute respiratory symptom virus. While informing legal and institutional reforms, key recommendations on storing personal protective equipment (PPE) and disinfectants for front‐line staff were subsequently ignored. PPE shortages initially put staff at risk, led to export restrictions on PPE, and later on hampered the country's ability to address a second wave of the pandemic. This short paper calls for a fuller exploration of factors which hinder ‘‘implementation post‐cognition.’’
Psychometric evaluation of the Telenursing Interaction and Satisfaction Scale
Authors: Mattisson Marie , Börjeson Sussanne , Lindberg Malou , Årestedt Kristofer
Published: January 2023

Aims and Objectives

Interaction between caller and telenurse in telenursing is important for caller satisfaction and subsequent compliance. Despite this, satisfaction measures with focus on interaction in telenursing are scarce and rarely anchored in nursing theory. The aim was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Telenursing Interaction and Satisfaction Scale (TISS) with focus on data quality, factor structure, convergent validity, and reliability.

Methodological Design and Justification

This psychometric study was based on cross‐sectional data.

Research Methods, Instruments, and/or Interventions

Callers to the National Medical Advisory Service in Sweden (n = 616) completed the 60‐item Telenursing Interaction and Satisfaction Questionnaire based on Cox's Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior. Twenty‐five of these items were selected to form the TISS in four subscales according to the model. Data quality was evaluated in terms of missing data patterns and score distributions. The factor structure was evaluated with confirmatory factor analysis for ordinal data, convergent validity with Spearman correlations, internal consistency with ordinal alpha, scale reliability with composite reliability coefficients, and test–retest reliability with intraclass correlations.

Results

The amount of missing data was acceptable and equally distributed. Data deviated significantly from a normal distribution. All response options were endorsed. The factor analysis confirmed the hypothesised four‐factor structure; factor loadings ranged from 0.56 to 0.97 and factor correlations were high (0.88–0.96). Internal consistency (ordinal alpha = 0.82–0.97), scale reliability (0.88–0.99), and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.77–0.86) were satisfactory for all scales.

Study Limitations

The study design did not allow drop‐out analysis.

Conclusions

The TISS showed satisfactory psychometric properties in the study sample. It provides a measure that enables quantitative measurement of caller satisfaction with interaction in telenursing.
Advancing a qualitative turn in news media trust research
Authors: Garusi Diego , Splendore Sergio
Published: January 2023

The contemporary media environment represents the greatest challenge ever to journalism's legitimacy. Surveys conducted in different parts of the world highlight a decline in trust in news media. Due to the numerous changes in the news media environment, different investigative tools are required to grasp the mechanisms underlying news media trust from those adopted so far. This article provides a review of existing media trust research and argues that it is necessary to investigate news media trust (also) from a qualitative perspective because today understanding media trust is as crucial as measuring it.