bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Travel surveillance uncovers dengue virus dynamics and introductions in the Caribbean
Authors: Taylor-Salmon Emma , Hill Verity , Paul Lauren M. , Koch Robert T. , Breban Mallery I. , Chaguza Chrispin , Sodeinde Afeez , Warren Joshua L. , Bunch Sylvia , Cano Natalia , Cone Marshall , Eysoldt Sarah , Garcia Alezaundra , Gilles Nicadia , Hagy Andrew , Heberlein Lea , Jaber Rayah , Kassens Elizabeth , Colarusso Pamela , Davis Amanda , Baudin Samantha , Rico Edhelene , Mejía-Echeverri Álvaro , Scott Blake , Stanek Danielle , Zimler Rebecca , Muñoz-Jordán Jorge L. , Santiago Gilberto A. , Adams Laura E. , Paz-Bailey Gabriela , Spillane Melanie , Katebi Volha , Paulino-Ramírez Robert , Mueses Sayira , Peguero Armando , Sánchez Nelissa , Norman Francesca F. , Galán Juan-Carlos , Huits Ralph , Hamer Davidson H. , Vogels Chantal B.F. , Morrison Andrea , Michael Scott F. , Grubaugh Nathan D.
Published: November 2023

Dengue is the most prevalent mosquito-borne viral disease in humans, and cases are continuing to rise globally. In particular, islands in the Caribbean have experienced more frequent outbreaks, and all four dengue virus (DENV) serotypes have been reported in the region, leading to hyperendemicity and increased rates of severe disease. However, there is significant variability regarding virus surveillance and reporting between islands, making it difficult to obtain an accurate understanding of the epidemiological patterns in the Caribbean. To investigate this, we used travel surveillance and genomic epidemiology to reconstruct outbreak dynamics, DENV serotype turnover, and patterns of spread within the region from 2009-2022. We uncovered two recent DENV-3 introductions from Asia, one of which resulted in a large outbreak in Cuba, which was previously under-reported. We also show that while outbreaks can be synchronized between islands, they are often caused by different serotypes. Our study highlights the importance of surveillance of infected travelers to provide a snapshot of local introductions and transmission in areas with limited local surveillance and suggests that the recent DENV-3 introductions may pose a major public health threat in the region.
The maintenance of complex visual scenes in working memory may require activation of working memory manipulation circuits in the dlPFC
Authors: Nitchie Frederick , Casalvera Abigail , Teferi Marta , Patel Milan , Lynch Kevin , Makhoul Walid , Sheline Yvette , Balderston Nicholas L
Published: November 2023

Past research has shown that the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortices (dlPFC) are implicated in both emotional processing as well as cognitive processing,1,2,3in addition to working memory4, 5. Exactly how these disparate processes interact with one another within the dlPFC is less understood. To explore this, researchers designed an experiment that looked at working memory performance during fMRI under both emotional and non-emotional task conditions. Participants were asked to complete three tasks (letters, neutral images, emotional images) of the Sternberg Sorting Task under one of two trial conditions (sort or maintain). Regions of interest consisted of the left and right dlPFC as defined by brain masks based on NeuroSynth6. Results showed a significant main effect of the ‘sort’ condition on reaction speed for all three trial types, as well as a main effect of task type (letters) on accuracy. In addition, a significant interaction was found between trial type (sort) and task type (letters), but not for either of the picture tasks. These results reveal a discrepancy between BOLD signal and behavioral data, with no significant difference in BOLD activity during image trials being displayed, despite longer response times for every condition. While these results show that the dlPFC is clearly implicated in non-emotional cognitive processing, more research is needed to explain the lack of BOLD activation seen here for similar emotionally valanced tasks, possibly indicating involvement of other brain networks.
Prescription of nutritional interventions to HIV patients in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Abioye Ajibola I , Siril Hellen , Mhalu Aisa , Ulenga Nzovu , Fawzi Wafaie W
Published: November 2023

Background

Anemia and micronutrient deficiencies are common among people living with HIV (PLHIV). There are no current guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding whether supplements are recommended or not. We sought to assess the practices with respect to nutritional supplementation among clinicians providing care to people living with HIV in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey at clinics providing care to PLHIV in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. All healthcare workers with prescribing responsibility were invited. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect information about participants’ demographic and professional characteristics, and their approach to making decisions regarding the prescription of nutritional interventions. Descriptive analyses regarding prescribing patterns and associated factors were done.

Results

Two hundred and fifty-four clinicians participated in the survey. They were clinical officers (65%), medical assistants (21%) or medical doctors (13%), and attended to 30 patients (IQR: 10, 100) on average, per week. While the majority usually prescribed iron and multivitamin supplements (79% and 76%, respectively), only 33% usually prescribed ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF). The decision to prescribe nutritional supplements were typically guided by patients’ clinical condition and laboratory test results. Pallor was the most commonly considered clinical feature across patient subgroups. Most participants commenced supplementation when hemoglobin concentration was ≤10g/dl. Clinicians who attended to between 10 and <100 patients or believed in the need for universal iron supplementation for pregnant PLHIV were more likely to prescribe iron supplements compared to counterparts who attended to <10 patients weekly or who did not believe in the need for universal iron supplementation for pregnant PLHIV respectively.

Conclusion

Clinicians frequently prescribe nutritional supplements, with considerable variation in how they decide whether and how to.
A Systematic Review evaluating the role of the 7 T MRI in Neurosurgery: Unveiling Trends in the Literature So Far after Clinical Approval in 2017
Authors: Perera Molligoda Arachchige Arosh S.
Published: November 2023

Aims

(1) To assess the impact of 7-Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging (7T MRI) on neurosurgery, focusing on its applications in diagnosis, treatment planning, and post-operative assessment. (2) To systematically analyze and identify patterns and trends in the existing literature related to the utilization of 7T MRI in neurosurgical contexts.

Methods

Systematic search of PubMed for studies published between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2021, using MeSH terms related to 7T MRI and neurosurgery. Inclusion criteria: Studies involving patients of all ages, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and original research. Exclusion criteria: Pre-prints, studies with insufficient data eg: case reports, letters, etc., non-English publications, and studies involving animal subjects. Data synthesis involved standardized extraction forms, and a narrative synthesis was performed.

Results

Identified 83 records from PubMed, screened for inclusion criteria, resulting in 48 studies included in the systematic review. Most common neurosurgical procedures using 7T MRI: endoscopic neurosurgery, resective epilepsy surgery, and deep brain stimulation surgery. Commonly treated pathologies: cerebrovascular diseases, epilepsy, pituitary adenoma, and gliomas. USA, Netherlands, and Germany had the highest absolute number of publications, but the Netherlands showed the highest research productivity per 7T MRI available. A decline in research output in 2018 followed by an increase in subsequent years. Could not conduct a meta-analysis due to insufficient studies for each pathology.

Conclusions

7T MRI holds great potential in improving the characterization and understanding of various neurological and psychiatric conditions. Superiority of 7T MRI over lower field strengths demonstrated in terms of image quality, lesion detection, and tissue characterization. Applications in epilepsy, pituitary adenoma, Parkinson’s disease, cerebrovascular diseases, trigeminal neuralgia, traumatic head injury, multiple sclerosis, glioma, and psychiatric disorders. Limitations include database selection, research productivity metrics, and study inclusion criteria. Findings suggest the need for accelerated global distribution of 7T MR systems and increased training for radiologists to ensure safe and effective integration into routine clinical practice.
Monitoring ESBL-Escherichia coliin Swiss wastewater between November 2021 and November 2022: insights into population carriage
Authors: Conforti Sheena , Holschneider Aurélie , Sylvestre Émile , Julian Timothy R.
Published: November 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global health threat, causing millions of deaths annually, with expectations of increased impact in the future. Wastewater surveillance offers a cost-effective, non-invasive tool to understand AMR carriage trends within a population.

Aim

We monitored extended-spectrum β-lactamase producingEscherichia coli(ESBL-E. coli) weekly in influent wastewater from six wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in Switzerland (November 2021 to November 2022) to investigate spatio-temporal variations, explore correlations with environmental variables, develop a predictive model for ESBL-E. colicarriage in the community, and detect the most prevalent ESBL-genes.

Methods

We cultured total and ESBL-E. coliin 300 wastewater samples to quantify daily loads and percentage of ESBL-E. coli. Additionally, we screened 234 ESBL-E. coliisolates using molecular-methods for the presence of 18 ESBL-gene families.

Results

We found a population-weighted mean percentage of ESBL-E. coliof 1.9% (95%CI 1.8%, 2%) across all sites and weeks, which can inform ESBL-E. colicarriage. Concentrations of ESBL-E. colivaried across WWTPs and time, with higher values observed in WWTPs serving larger populations. Recent precipitations (previous 24-/96-hours) showed no significant association with ESBL-E. coli, while temperature occasionally had a moderate impact (p<0.05, correlation coefficients approximately 0.40) in some locations. We identifiedblaCTX-M-1,blaCTX-M-9andblaTEMas the predominant ESBL-gene families.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that wastewater-based surveillance of culturable ESBL-E. coliprovides insights into AMR trends in Switzerland and may also inform resistance. These findings establish a foundation for long-term, nationally established monitoring protocols and provide information that may help inform targeted public health interventions.
Investigation of contributions from cortical and subcortical brain structures for speech decoding
Authors: Wu Hemmings , Cai Chengwei , Ming Wenjie , Chen Wangyu , Zhu Zhoule , Feng Chen , Jiang Hongjie , Zheng Zhe , Sawan Mohamad , Wang Ting , Zhu Junming
Published: November 2023

Language impairments often arise from severe neurological disorders, prompting the development of neural prosthetics based on electrophysiological signals for the restoration of comprehensible language information. Previous decoding efforts have focused mainly on signals from the cerebral cortex, neglecting the potential contributions of subcortical brain structures to speech decoding in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). This study aims to explore the role of subcortical structures for speech decoding by utilizing stereotactic electroencephalography (sEEG). Two native Mandarin Chinese speakers, who underwent sEEG implantation for pharmaco-resistant epilepsy, participated in this study. sEEG contacts were primarily located in the superior temporal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus, inferior temporal gyrus, thalamus, hippocampus, insular gyrus, amygdala, and parahippocampal gyrus. The participants were asked to read Chinese text, which included 407 Chinese characters (covering all Chinese syllables), displayed on a screen after receiving prompts. 1-30, 30-70 and 70-150 Hz frequency band powers of sEEG signals were used as key features. A deep learning model based on long short-term memory (LSTM) was developed to evaluate the contribution of different brain structures during encoding of speech. Prediction of speech characteristics of consonants (articulatory place and manner) and tone within single words based on the selected features and electrode contact locations was made. Cortical signals were generally better at articulatory place prediction (86.5% accuracy, chance level = 12.5%), while cortical and subcortical signals predicted articulatory manner at similar level (51.5% vs 51.7% accuracy, respectively, chance level = 14.3%). Subcortical signals generated better prediction for tone (around 58.3% accuracy, chance level = 25%). Superior temporal gyrus remains highly relevant during speech decoding for both consonants and tone. Prediction reached the highest level when cortical and subcortical inputs were combined, especially for tone prediction. Our findings indicate that both cortical and subcortical structures can play crucial roles for speech decoding, each contributing to different aspects of speech.
A synthetic CRISPR-Cas nuclease with expanded enzymatic activities
Authors: Jabalera Ylenia , Tascón Igor , Samperio Sara , López-Alonso Jorge P. , Gonzalez-Lopez Monika , Aransay Ana M. , Abascal-Palacios Guillermo , Ubarretxena-Belandia Iban , Perez-Jimenez Raul
Published: November 2023

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated endonucleases have revolutionized biotechnology for their potential as programmable genome editors. Yet, most natural nucleases and their variants have limitations. Here, we report a fully synthetic CRISPR-associated (Cas) nuclease (α-synCas) designed by Ancestral Sequence Reconstruction (ASR) that displays a set of robust and distinct targeting properties, not found in any other known CRISPR-Cas Class 2 system. We show that α-synCas is a PAMless nuclease able to catalyse RNA-guided, specific cleavage of dsDNA, ssDNA and ssRNA. The synthetic enzyme is also capable of sequence-nonspecific degradation of dsDNA, ssDNA and ssRNA following activation by complementary dsDNA, ssDNA and ssRNA targets. Furthermore, α-synCas exhibits a robust genome editing activity in human cells and bacteria. Cryo-electron microscopy structures of α-synCas ternary and quaternary complexes provide a framework to understand the structural basis for its expanded enzymatic activities. The capability for programmable multimodal targeting of virtually any nucleic acid sequence distinguishes α-synCas as a promising new tool to extend current CRISPR-based technologies.
Delivery mode impacts gut bacteriophage colonization during infancy
Authors: Subramanian Poorani , Romero-Soto Hector N. , Stern David B. , Maxwell George L. , Levy Shira , Hourigan Suchitra K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Cesarean section delivery is associated with altered early-life bacterial colonization and later adverse inflammatory and immune health outcomes. Although gut bacteriophages can alter gut microbiome composition and impact host immune responses, little is known about how delivery mode impacts bacteriophage colonization over time. To begin to address this we examined how delivery mode affected bacteriophage colonization over the first two years of life.

Results

Shotgun metagenomic sequencing was conducted on 272 serial stool samples from 55 infants, collected at 1-2 days of life and 2, 6, 12 and 24 months. 33/55 (60%) infants were born by vaginal delivery. DNA viruses were identified, and by host inference, 94% of the viral sequences were found to be bacteriophages. Alpha diversity of the virome was increased in vaginally delivered infants compared to cesarean section delivered infants at 2 months (Shannon index, p=0.022). Beta diversity significantly differed by delivery mode at 2, 6, and 12 months when stratified by peripartum antibiotic use (Bray–Curtis dissimilarity, all p<0.05). Significant differentially abundant predicted bacteriophage hosts by delivery mode were seen at all time points. Moreover, there were differences in predicted bacteriophage functional gene abundances up to 24 months by delivery mode. Many of the functions considered to play a role in host response were increased in vaginal delivery.

Conclusions

Clear differences in bacteriophage composition and function were seen by delivery mode over the first two years of life. Given that phages are known to affect host immune response, our results suggest that future investigation into how delivery mode may lead to adverse inflammatory outcomes should not only include bacterial microbial colonization but also the potential role of bacteriophages and transkingdom interactions.
Coordination of focal adhesion nanostructure and mechano-signaling drives cardiomyocyte differentiation
Authors: Xiao Jingwei , Zhong Xueying , Ang Jing Wen , Wong Darren Chen Pei , Lee Chang Jie Mick , Foo Roger S-Y , Kanchanawong Pakorn , Low Boon Chuan
Published: November 2023

Focal adhesion (FA) organization and signaling are essential for cell growth and differentiation. However, the molecular mechanism that coordinates the FA signaling with cardiomyocyte differentiation has not been fully understood. Here, we provide empirical evidence that BNIP-2, a BCH-domain-containing protein, is the organizer of FA nanostructure that potentiates FA signaling and cell traction force transmission. Mechanistically, BNIP-2 serves as a scaffold for focal adhesion kinase (FAK), paxillin and vinculin to control their molecular organization and assembly/disassembly within FAs. Constitutively active phosphomimetic mutant FAK Y397D shows enhanced binding to BNIP-2, whereas the depletion of BNIP-2 reduces FAK phosphorylation and interaction between FAK and paxillin. Using H9c2 myoblasts and human embryonic stem cells as model systems, we show that BNIP-2 depletion results in aberrant FA dynamics with impairment of traction force, and changes in signature target genes, hereby impeding cardiomyocyte differentiation. BNIP-2 regulation of FA organization and dynamic is therefore pivotal to the mechanotransduction in cardiomyocyte differentiation, shedding new light to how FA-transduced force modulates cell growth and differentiation.
Long noncoding RNA Hottip maintained skeletal homeostasisviasuppressing the enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (Ezh2)/histone methylation regulatory axis
Authors: Li Zhi-Peng , Mai Yong-Xin , Zhou Shu-Ting , Shi Chuan-jian , Shao Jiang , Liang Puping , Liang Wei-cheng , Zhang Jin-fang
Published: November 2023

Recent evidence suggests that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating bone remodeling and skeletal homeostasis by coordinating the development of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Several lncRNAs have been identified to participate in bone formation and resorption processes. Among them, the well-known oncogenic lncRNA, Hottip, has been reported to be involved in osteogenesis regulation. However, the specific function and underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

In this study, we investigated the role of lncRNA Hottip in bone remodeling and skeletal homeostasis. Hottip knockout mice exhibited disrupted bone metabolism, abnormal bone tissue, and compromised bone quality, resulting in delayed fracture healing. In vitro experiments demonstrated that Hottip knockdown inhibited osteoblast differentiation while promoting osteoclast differentiation, with the opposite effect observed upon Hottip overexpression. Mechanistically, Hottip physically interacted with EZH2, leading to its degradation and facilitating the transcription of osteogenic genes by suppressing H3K9me3 and H3K27me3. In vivo experiments further validated the potential of Hottip overexpression to promote bone regeneration and accelerate fracture healing.

In conclusion, our study reveals Hottip as a critical regulator in the differentiation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, crucial for maintaining skeletal homeostasis. This lncRNA shows potential as a promising therapeutic target for bone regeneration.
Cell intrinsic mechanical regulation of plasma membrane accumulation at the cytokinetic furrow
Authors: Alonso-Matilla Roberto , Lam Alice , Miettinen Teemu P.
Published: November 2023

Cytokinesis is the process where the mother cell’s cytoplasm separates into daughter cells. This is driven by an actomyosin contractile ring that produces cortical contractility and drives cleavage furrow ingression, resulting in the formation of a thin intercellular bridge. While cytoskeletal reorganization during cytokinesis has been extensively studied, little is known about the spatiotemporal dynamics of the plasma membrane. Here, we image and model plasma membrane lipid and protein dynamics on the cell surface during leukemia cell cytokinesis. We reveal an extensive accumulation and folding of plasma membrane at the cleavage furrow and the intercellular bridge, accompanied by a depletion and unfolding of plasma membrane at the cell poles. These membrane dynamics are caused by two actomyosin-driven biophysical mechanisms: the radial constriction of the cleavage furrow causes local compression of the apparent cell surface area and accumulation of the plasma membrane at the furrow, while actomyosin cortical flows drag the plasma membrane towards the cell division plane as the furrow ingresses. The magnitude of these effects depends on the plasma membrane fluidity, cortex adhesion and cortical contractility. Overall, our work reveals cell intrinsic mechanical regulation of plasma membrane accumulation at the cleavage furrow that is likely to generate localized differences in membrane tension across the cytokinetic cell. This may locally alter endocytosis, exocytosis and mechanotransduction, while also serving as a self-protecting mechanism against cytokinesis failures that arise from high membrane tension at the intercellular bridge.
PEM-based random vibration analysis under service-braking conditions on an irregular track
Authors: Liu Xiaoxue , Liu Yuchen , Zhang Youwei , Guo Hanfei
Published: November 2023

Purpose

According to relevant research, non-uniform speed has a significant impact on the vehicle-track systems. Up to now, research work on it is still very limited. In this paper, the PEM is adopted to further transform it into a deterministic process to solve the vehicle’s problem of running at a non-uniform speed.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-body vehicle model has 10 degrees of freedom and the track is regarded as a finite long beam supported by lumped sleepers and ballast blocks. They are connected via linear Hertz springs. The vertical track irregularity is a Gaussian stationary process in the space domain. It is transformed into a uniformly modulated nonstationary random process in the time domain with respect to the non-uniform vehicle speed. By solving the equation of motion of the coupled vehicle-track system with the pseudo-excitation method, the pseudo-response and consequently the power spectral density and the standard deviation of the structural response can be obtained.

Findings

Two kinds of vehicle braking programs are taken in the numerical example and some beneficial conclusions are drawn.

Originality/value

The pseudo-excitation method (PEM) was used to perform the random vibration analysis of a coupled non-uniform speed vehicle-track system. Transforming the track irregularity into a uniformly modulated nonstationary random process in time domain with respect to the non-uniform vehicle speed was undertaken. The pseudo-response of the coupled system is solved by applying the Newmark algorithm with constant space integral steps. The random vibration transfer mechanism of the coupled system is fully discussed.
Exploring the relationship between entrepreneurial ecosystem inputs and outcomes: the role of digital technology adoption
Authors: Marinelli Luca , Bartoloni Sara , Costa Alessandra , Pascucci Federica
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This work aims to explore the relationship between entrepreneurial ecosystems' (EEs) inputs and outcomes within a digital-technology-driven EE. Specifically, it focuses on how being part of an EE enhances digital technology adoption (DTA) and consequently facilitates EE outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a single-case study approach, focusing on Italian EE. The data analysis is based on the researchers' direct observations and semi-structured interviews with the EE founders' teams and the top management of the small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating therein. Given the novelty of the topic and the lack of a clear research framework of analysis, a qualitative method is well suited for studying digital-technology-driven EE, thus gaining rich data about the phenomenon in a real-life context.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal that when specific eco-inputs (financial, knowledge, social and institutional assets) are correctly exploited to enhance DTA, important outcomes, namely, SME competitiveness and new technology-based venture creation and development, are generated.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a relatively unexplored topic in the existing literature on EEs and digital technology. Specifically, through the proposition of a conceptual model, it sheds light on the relationship among EE inputs, DTA and EE outcomes.
Asset redeployability and corporate cash holdings
Authors: Bradley Wray , Sun Li
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of asset redeployability on the level of corporate cash holdings.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use regression analysis to examine the relation between asset redeployability and corporate cash holdings.

Findings

Using a large panel sample of US public firms from 1990 to 2020, the authors find a significant positive relation between asset redeployability and cash, which suggests that firms with more redeployable assets hold more cash.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to a growing literature in accounting and finance that investigates the impact of asset redeployability on firm characteristics and also contribute to the literature on the determinants of cash holdings.
Pre-education reflections of online and face-to-face clinical experiences
Authors: Casale Carolyn , Thomas C. Adrainne , Bazzi Ahlam Alma
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This research study provides insight into students’ perceptions of teaching through virtual and face-to-face clinicals in an introductory education course in a pre-education program at a minority-serving institution.

Design/methodology/approach

This study took place at an urban–suburban-centered community college in the Midwestern United States and was reviewed by the higher education institutional review board (IRB). Data were collected from pre-education majors enrolled in a four-hour Introduction to Education with field experiences.

Findings

The findings indicated that both virtual and face-to-face clinicals were beneficial to the development of pre-service teachers, particularly in an early introduction to education course.

Research limitations/implications

The finding that virtual clinicals are significant to teacher growth is significant to teacher recruitment and preparation.

Practical implications

The flexibility of a virtual clinical provides greater opportunities for low-income and marginalized populations with limited means and access.

Social implications

This finding can lead to strategies to diversify teacher candidates.

Originality/value

This study sought to answer the following question: how do pre-education students reflect to understand the roles and responsibilities of teaching through virtual options vs face-to-face clinicals? The interest of this research is to expand pathways into the teaching profession to nontraditional, ethnically and culturally marginalized groups and historically underrepresented groups.
Older adults' adherence to medications and willingness to deprescribe: A substudy of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Weir Kristie Rebecca , Jungo Katharina Tabea , Streit Sven
Published: November 2023

Our study investigated the association between patients' willingness to have medications deprescribed and medication adherence. This longitudinal substudy of the ‘Optimizing PharmacoTherapy In the Multimorbid Elderly in Primary CAre’ (OPTICA) trial, a cluster randomized controlled trial, took place in Swiss primary care settings. Participants were aged ≥65 years and over, with ≥3 chronic conditions and ≥5 regular medications. At baseline, the ‘revised Patient Attitudes Towards Deprescribing’ (rPATD) questionnaire was measured. The A14‐scale measured adherence (self‐report) at the 12‐month follow‐up. Multilevel linear regression analyses adjusted for baseline variables were performed. Of the 298 participants, 45% were women, and the median age was 78. Participants reported a high level of adherence and willingness to have medications deprescribed. We did not find evidence for an association between patients' willingness to deprescribe and medication adherence. Further research is needed to explore the relationship between these concepts and to inform collaborative decisions about medicines in the context of polypharmacy.
Propofol inhibits the proliferation, invasion, migration, and angiogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma through circ_0008898‐mediated pathway
Authors: Dong Hui , Zhou Weifu , Han Long , Zhao Qingjun
Published: November 2023

Propofol has been shown to inhibit oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) progression. However, it is not clear whether propofol mediates OSCC progression through regulating circular RNA (circRNA) network. Quantitative real‐time PCR was used to detect circ_0008898, miR‐545‐3p, and CT10 regulator of kinase‐like protein (CRKL) expression. Cell functions were determined using CCK8 assay, Edu staining, MTT assay, transwell assay, wound healing assay, tube formation assay, and flow cytometry. Protein levels were examined by western blot analysis. RNA interaction was confirmed by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay. Our data showed that propofol repressed OSCC cell proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, and promoted apoptosis. circ_0008898 was highly expressed in OSCC, and its expression could be decreased by propofol. circ_0008898 silencing aggravated the suppressive effect of propofol on OSCC progression. In the mechanism, circ_0008898 could target miR‐545‐3p to positively regulate CRKL. MiR‐545‐3p inhibitor abolished the regulation of circ_0008898 silencing on propofol‐mediated OSCC cell progression. MiR‐545‐3p inhibited the progression of propofol‐treated OSCC cells, and this effect was reversed by CRKL overexpression. Also, circ_0008898 knockdown reduced OSCC tumor growth by regulating miR‐545‐3p/CRKL. In conclusion, propofol suppressed OSCC progression, which was achieved through regulating the circ_0008898/miR‐545‐3p/CRKL axis.
Association between participation at home and functional skills in children and adolescents with Down syndrome: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Brugnaro Beatriz Helena , Kraus de Camargo Olaf , Pfeifer Luzia Iara , Pavão Silvia Letícia , Hlyva Oksana , Rocha Nelci Adriana Cicuto Ferreira
Published: November 2023

Background

According to a biopsychosocial approach to health and disability, participation at home and functional skills are important components of the functioning. Therefore, knowledge about interactions between these components allows for targeting specific interventions.

Objective

This study investigated whether participation opportunities (frequency and involvement) for children/adolescents with Down syndrome (DS) in a realistic environment at their own home are associated with the functional skills related to the domains of Daily Activities, Mobility, Social/Cognitive and Responsibility.

Methods

This was an observational study. Forty‐eight children/adolescents with DS participated (mean age: 10.73 ± 3.43; n = 27 females). Participants were evaluated using the Participation and Environment Measure for Children and Youth (PEM‐CY) home environment setting (raw frequency and engagement scores) and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory speedy version (PEDI‐CAT‐SV) (continuous score).

Results

Significant and positive correlations were found between the frequency of participation at home with Daily Activities (ro = 0.320), Social/Cognitive (ro = 0.423) and Responsibility (ro = 0.455). For involvement, significant and positive correlations were found with Daily Activities (ro = 0.297), Social/Cognitive (ro = 0.380) and Responsibility (ro = 0.380). For the PEDI‐CAT‐SV Mobility, no significant correlation was found.

Conclusions

Higher frequency and involvement of participation at home are associated with greater functional skills assessed, except for Mobility. This study provided pioneering insights about the relationships between the level of home participation and functional skills in DS, generating evidence that could guide approaches to participation‐focused intervention.
The regulatory role and clinical application prospects of circRNA in the occurrence and development of CNS tumors
Authors: Zhang Bo , Zhang Hao , Wang Zeyu , Cao Hui , Zhang Nan , Dai Ziyu , Liang Xisong , Peng Yun , Wen Jie , Zhang Xun , Zhang Liyang , Luo Peng , Zhang Jian , Liu Zaoqu , Cheng Quan , Peng Renjun
Published: November 2023

Background

Central nervous system (CNS) tumors originate from the spinal cord or brain. The study showed that even with aggressive treatment, malignant CNS tumors have high mortality rates. However, CNS tumor risk factors and molecular mechanisms have not been verified. Due to the reasons mentioned above, diagnosis and treatment of CNS tumors in clinical practice are currently fraught with difficulties. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), single‐stranded ncRNAs with covalently closed continuous structures, are essential to CNS tumor development. Growing evidence has proved the numeral critical biological functions of circRNAs for disease progression: sponging to miRNAs, regulating gene transcription and splicing, interacting with proteins, encoding proteins/peptides, and expressing in exosomes.

Aims

This review aims to summarize current progress regarding the molecular mechanism of circRNA in CNS tumors and to explore the possibilities of clinical application based on circRNA in CNS tumors.

Methods

We have summarized studies of circRNA in CNS tumors in Pubmed.

Results

This review summarized their connection with CNS tumors and their functions, biogenesis, and biological properties. Furthermore, we introduced current advances in clinical RNA‐related technologies. Then we discussed the diagnostic and therapeutic potential (especially for immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy) of circRNA in CNS tumors in the context of the recent advanced research and application of RNA in clinics.

Conclusions

CircRNA are increasingly proven to participate in decveloping CNS tumors. An in‐depth study of the causal mechanisms of circRNAs in CNS tomor progression will ultimately advance their implementation in the clinic and developing new strategies for preventing and treating CNS tumors.
The gendered violence of injecting‐related stigma among relatively affluent, suburban women who inject drugs
Authors: Dertadian George Christopher , Caruana Theresa , Maher Lisa
Published: November 2023

Introduction

In honouring the legacy of Jude Byrne's life‐long advocacy for women and mothers who use drugs, this paper presents a case study of a group of women about whom we know little about and hear even less from: women who inject drugs in relatively affluent suburbs.

Methods

Based on a 2020 qualitative study of people who inject drugs in an affluent area of Sydney known as ‘The Beaches’, we use in‐depth interview data to thematically explore the lived experiences of gendered stigma among women who inject drugs.

Results

Even when women occupy the ‘ideal’ social position in terms of class (middle‐class) and race (White) they remain subject to harmful forms of gendered stigma related to injecting drug use. Participants had internalised negative attitudes around injection drug use as a form of failed femininity and, despite being part of ‘good’ families and neighbourhoods, participants experienced forced child removal.

Discussion and Conclusions

Taking the lead from feminist intersectionality scholarship, our data illustrate how stigma and discrimination act as a form of structural violence against women who inject drugs in affluent communities. While the social relations of gender provide some degree of protection by ‘performing proximity to Whiteness’, gendered stigma and violence persist.
Presentations and evaluations: A new look at Husserl's distinction between objectifying and non‐objectifying acts
Authors: Staiti Andrea Sebastiano
Published: November 2023

In this paper, I take a fresh look at Husserl's key distinction between objectifying and non‐objectifying acts, which roughly amounts to a distinction between presentational and evaluative experiences. My goal is to provide a clear and unified reconstruction of Husserl's argument for the thesis that non‐objectifying acts are necessarily founded in objectifying acts, a thesis that is highly controversial in and beyond Husserlian scholarship. In the first section, I reconstruct Husserl's view in the Logical Investigations, according to which only objectifying acts establish an independent intentional relation to their objects, and argue that it is justified by the positing function of objectifying acts. In the second section, I address two problematic interpretations of this view and, after criticizing them, I present what I take to be Husserl's core argument for his position. In the third section, I turn to the revision of the view of the Logical Investigations that Husserl proposes in the wake of his transcendental turn, especially in Ideas I and II. On Husserl's revised view, all acts are objectifying, including emotional acts [Gemütsakte]. This revision has led scholars to consider Husserl's view aporetic. I propose an alternative interpretation that dispels the purported aporia. I conclude with some remarks on the costs and benefits of my reading, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of Husserl's view in general.
Impact of diabetes mellitus on the respiratory function of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients
Authors: Pinto Susana , Oliveira Santos Miguel , Gromicho Marta , Swash Michael , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: November 2023

Background and purpose

Respiratory insufficiency and its complications are the main cause of death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on respiratory function of ALS patients is uncertain.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was carried out. From the 1710 patients with motor neuron disease followed in our unit, ALS and progressive muscular atrophy patients were included. We recorded demographic characteristics, functional ALS rating scale (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised [ALSFRS‐R]) and its subscores at first visit, respiratory function tests, arterial blood gases, phrenic nerve amplitude (PhrenAmpl), and mean nocturnal oxygen saturation (SpO2mean). We excluded patients with other relevant diseases. Two subgroups were analysed: DIAB (patients with DM) and noDIAB (patients without DM). Independent t‐test, χ2, or Fisher exact test was applied. Binomial logistic regression analyses assessed DM effects. Kaplan–Meier analysis assessed survival. p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

We included 1639 patients (922 men, mean onset age = 62.5 ± 12.6 years, mean disease duration = 18.1 ± 22.0 months). Mean survival was 43.3 ± 40.7 months. More men had DM (p = 0.021). Disease duration was similar between groups (p = 0.063). Time to noninvasive ventilation (NIV) was shorter in DIAB (p = 0.004); total survival was similar. No differences were seen for ALSFRS‐R or its decay rate. At entry, DIAB patients were older (p < 0.001), with lower forced vital capacity (p = 0.001), arterial oxygen pressure (p = 0.01), PhrenAmpl (p < 0.001), and SpO2mean (p = 0.014).

Conclusions

ALS patients with DM had increased risk of respiratory impairment and should be closely monitored. Early NIV allowed for similar survival rate between groups.
Core competencies of emergency nurses for the armed conflict context: Experiences from the field
Authors: Mani Zakaria A. , Kuhn Lisa , Plummer Virginia
Published: November 2023

Background

Armed conflicts are usually associated with high mortality and morbidity rates, with unpredictable workload, injuries and illnesses. Identifying emergency nurses’ views of the core competencies required to enable them to work effectively in hospitals in areas of armed conflict is critical. It is important to inform the requisite standards of care and facilitate the translation of knowledge into safe, quality care.

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify emergency nurses’ perceptions of core competencies necessary to work in hospitals in the context of armed conflict.

Method

A descriptive qualitative phase of a mixed‐method study using semi‐structured interviews with participants was conducted from June to July 2019. The COREQ guideline for reporting qualitative research was followed.

Findings

A sample of 15 participants was interviewed. The participant perceptions provided a different perspective of core competencies required for emergency nurses in the context of armed conflict, culminating in four main areas: (i) personal preparedness , (ii) leadership, (iii) communication and (iv) assessment and intervention.

Conclusion

This study identified emergency nurses’ perceptions of their core competencies. Personal preparedness, leadership, communication, assessment and intervention were identified as contributing to calmness of character, confidence in care and cultural awareness for care in this setting and were essential for them to work effectively when managing victims of armed conflict in emergency departments.

Implications for nursing practice and health policy

The findings of this study are important and novel because the researchers sought the perspectives of emergency nurses who have experience in receiving patients from armed conflict firsthand. The findings will inform policymakers in those settings regarding standard of care, education and drills for hospital nurses in optimizing armed conflict care response outcomes.
Infestation intensity by the invasive oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say) in mixed and pure oak stands
Authors: Hoch Gernot , Stemmelen Alex , Eötvös Csaba Béla , Hinterstoisser Werner , Lanšćak Miran , Stojnić Srđan , Tóth Máté , Westergren Marjana , Zidar Simon , Zlatković Milica , Zoric Nikola , de Groot Maarten
Published: November 2023

There has been accumulating evidence for effects of tree species composition on herbivory with many examples of lower damage by specialist feeders in tree species rich forests. In a joint study in five Central and Southeastern European countries, we studied the effect of tree species richness on infestation intensity of the oak lace bug, Corythucha arcuata (Say) (Heteroptera, Tingidae), an invasive pest on oak trees that has spread rapidly across the Balkan Peninsula and Central Europe. Intensity of infestation by C. arcuata on oaks was assessed on three or four study plots with high (pure stands) and three or four plots with low percentage of oak (mixed stands) in each country. Ordinal regression analysis showed that intensity of infestation of trees by C. arcuata differed between countries; no significant effect of stand type (mixed or pure) on infestation levels was detected. When analysing the percentage of trees in the highest infestation class, stand type had a significant effect with more intensive infestation in pure stands. We conclude that mixed stands will not prevent severe infestation but may help mitigating the impact of established C. arcuata populations.
Effects of mindfulness‐based interventions on reducing psychological distress among nurses: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Karo Mestiana , Simorangkir Lindawati , Daryanti Saragih Ita , Suarilah Ira , Tzeng Huey‐Ming
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Nurses increasingly use mindfulness as an effective mental health intervention to reduce psychological distress. The effectiveness of mindfulness‐based interventions remains inconclusive, which may lead to implementation of interventions in an inefficient or ineffective manner. This study aimed to examine the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions on reducing stress, anxiety, and depression among nurses.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched using six databases published through May 20, 2023, which evaluated the effects of mindfulness‐based interventions on reducing psychological distress among nurses. To assess the quality of methodology included in the RCTs, version 2 of the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias instrument for RCTs with five domains was used. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using the random–effects model in the meta‐analyses. Publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression test. Further, the robustness effect size of the pooled analysis was assessed using leave‐one‐out sensitivity analysis.

Findings

A total of 16 RCTs were included in the final analysis. Overall, the modalities appeared to alleviate stress (pooled SMD: −0.50 [95% CI: −0.82 to −0.18]; p < 0.001) and depression (pooled SMD: −0.42 [95% CI: −0.78 to −0.06]; p = 0.02) among nurses.

Conclusion

Mindfulness‐based interventions appear to alleviate stress and depression in nurses. Future research evaluating mindfulness‐based interventions among working nurses with more rigorous methodological and larger sample size.

Clinical Relevance

Support for nurses' mental health must be included while implementing personal and professional development plans.