bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Karl Barth's Theology of God as the Absolute Person: Decision and the Problem of the Counterfactuals
Authors: Mannen Sara
Published: October 2022

This article argues that the tension identified by maximalist interpreters in Barth's theology between his concrete identification of Jesus Christ with the essence of God and affirmation of counterfactual possibilities is motivated by Barth's theology that God is the absolute person. Barth's theology of divine personhood includes an element of self‐mastery over Godself. It is demonstrated that Barth uses the concept of decision and counterfactual claims to secure God's Lordship over Godself and avoid any necessity of compulsion in God's actions. God is the absolute person, a self‐determining and self‐motivated intentional agent, which Barth utilises to secure God's irreducible, full presence in God's gracious turning towards us in revelation and reconciliation.
Seeing, Embodying, and Proclaiming Christ
Authors: Behr John
Published: October 2022

This essay examines the way Irenaeus of Lyons describes Blandina in her martyrdom: seen by others as embodying Christ and so encouraging them to also bear witness and be born into life by the Virgin Mother, the Church. It explores in particular Irenaeus' exegetical moves, so as to regain a sense of the unity of theology and exegesis as a transformed and transforming vision, which in turn extends the incarnation of Christ into the present in those who also take up the cross. In this way Irenaeus offers a way of understanding the unity of the discipline of theology and a vision of life and the Church that speaks to our contemporary situation.
From the migration crisis to the COVID‐19 pandemic, (im)possible regularization of migrants in Italy and Spain
Authors: Aris Escarcena Juan Pablo
Published: October 2022

The reception of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in camps has become a common phenomenon in Europe, discursively linked to the historical ‘crisis’ of mass movements towards the region. Camps and irregularity are two key issues in understanding the special impact that the COVID‐19 pandemic has had on migrants and refugees. This article explores connections between the ‘campization’ of migrant and refugee reception and the current debates for and against migrant regularization in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic in Southern Europe (Spain and Italy). The analysis uses qualitative methodology based on multi‐site ethnographic fieldwork (pre‐COVID‐19 pandemic); informal remote interviews with migrants and refugees; and analysis of political, media and legislative discourses.
Emotions, inequalities and crises: Ecuadorian migrants in Europe during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Herrera Gioconda , Espinosa Maria Cristina Carrillo , Lara‐Reyes Ruth
Published: October 2022

This article examines narratives of transnational belonging and transnational practices of care between a group of Ecuadorian migrants in Spain and Italy and their families and friends in Ecuador during the first semester of the COVID‐19 pandemic in 2020. Drawing on the concepts of transnational affective economies (Wilding et al., International Journal of Cultural Studies, 2020, 23, 639), the circulation of care (Baldassar & Merla, Transnational families, migration and the circulation of care: understanding mobility and absence in family life. Routledge Taylor and Francis Group, London, New York, 2014) and transnational forms of belonging (Boccagni & Baldassar, Emotions, Space and Society, 2015, 16, 73), we look at how despite their still precarious social and labour conditions in destination—which were exacerbated during the pandemic—Ecuadorian migrants activated different forms of belonging and transnational care. Findings reveal that emotions had a crucial role in enabling the transnational circulation of care between family members and friends and a revival of migrants' sense of national belonging. We argue that the crisis generated by COVID‐19 was the occasion for migrants to revisit their sense of belonging as well as their awareness of south–north inequalities since they experienced the crisis simultaneously in Ecuador, Spain and Italy. At the same time, emotions such as fear, anxiety, anger and concern for their families and communities triggered subjective understandings of local and global inequalities that reaffirmed their migration project.
Examining the perceived stress and body image in burn patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Uyar Betul , Akkoç Mehmet Fatih , Bulbuloglu Semra , Yilmaz Resul
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to examine the perceived stress and body image in burn patients and the relationship between these two variables. This is a descriptive and cross‐sectional study. The study included total of 144 patients who had burn injuries, received treatment in a research and training hospital and were scheduled to be discharged. The data were collected prospectively by the researchers, using descriptive methods, Kruskal Wallis test, paired samples t test, and Pearson's correlation analysis. Of the patients, 59% were between the ages of 18 and 35 years, 68.1% were male, 65.3% had second‐degree burns, 77.1% had burn surfaces ranging between 10% and 20% of their body, and 54.9% had autograft surgery. The burn patients aged 51 years and over had higher perceived stress than younger patients, and the difference between them was statistically significant (P < 0.05). As the percentage of burn surface increased, the perceived stress increased, and the perceived body image weakened (P < 0.05). The burn patients with autograft surgery had lower perceived stress and higher perceived body image than those without autograft surgery, and the difference between them was statistically significant (P < 0.01). This study found an inverse relationship between perceived stress and body image in burn patients, which was affected by the percentage of burn surface and autograft surgery. Relevant interventions are suggested to increase perceived body image in burn patients and reduce their perceived stress.
Larotrectinib induces autophagic cell death through AMPK/mTOR signalling in colon cancer
Authors: Kong Wencheng , Zhu Hangzhang , Zheng Sixing , Yin Guang , Yu Panpan , Shan Yuqiang , Liu Xinchun , Ying Rongchao , Zhu Hong , Ma Shenglin
Published: October 2022

Larotrectinib (Lar) is a highly selective and potent small‐molecule inhibitor used in patients with tropomyosin receptor kinase (TRK) fusion‐positive cancers, including colon cancer. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms specifically in patients with colon cancer have not yet been explored. Our data showed that Lar significantly suppressed proliferation and migration of colon cancer cells. In addition, Lar suppressed the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, as evidenced by elevation in E‐cadherin (E‐cad), and downregulation of vimentin and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2/9 expression. Furthermore, Lar was found to activate autophagic flux, in which Lar increased the ratio between LC3II/LC3I and decreased the expression of p62 in colon cancer cells. More importantly, Lar also increased AMPK phosphorylation and suppressed mTOR phosphorylation in colon cancer cells. However, when we silenced AMPK in colon cancer cells, Lar‐induced accumulation of autolysomes as well as Lar‐induced suppression of the EMT process were significantly diminished. An in vivo assay also confirmed that tumour volume and weight decreased in Lar‐treated mice than in control mice. Taken together, this study suggests that Lar significantly suppresses colon cancer proliferation and migration by activating AMPK/mTOR‐mediated autophagic cell death.
A model for dual health care market with congestion differentiation
Authors: Besancenot Damien , Lamiraud Karine , Vranceanu Radu
Published: October 2022

The French market for specialist physician care has a dual legal structure: physicians must exclusively work in sector 1 and charge regulated fees or in sector 2, where they can freely set their fees. Patient out‐of‐pocket payments in sector 2 are partially covered by private insurance. The primary differentiating factor between both sectors is the number of patients per specialist, which in turn directly affects the overall quality of the service provided. We built an equilibrium model to analyze both specialists' decisions about which sector to work in, and patients' choice of physician and therefore sector. More specifically, the model allowed us to study the effect of changes in prices and economy‐wide patient‐to‐specialist ratios on profits and patients' utility associated with the services provided in each sector.
Diurnal temperature amplitude affects diamondback moth adult and next‐generation traits
Authors: Xing Kun , Cao Junyu , Hao Bowen , Zhao Fei
Published: October 2022

Temperature fluctuation is one of the most important factors in climate change, and research into its effects on organisms is increasing. Nonetheless, few studies have addressed its effects on insects and particularly on the parental generation. We therefore simulated temperature amplitudes (± 0, 4, 6, 8, 10°C) for a mean environmental temperature of 25°C and studied their immediate and maternal effects on a global pest, the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), focusing on adult longevity and fecundity and egg development and survivorship in the next generation. Relative to constant temperature, moderate amplitudes (4 and 6°C) did not affect the adults, whereas 8 and 10°C amplitudes hindered adult longevity and fecundity, but significantly increased the proportional of early fecundity after each treatment. Temperature amplitude 10°C inhibited development of Day 2 and Day 3 laid eggs. These findings show that temperature amplitude affects both the maternal and offspring phenotype and indicate that the influence of temperature amplitude on diamondback moth population models requires further research.
Study on the effect of atmospheric and low‐pressure plasma and its combination on the microbial reduction and quality of milk
Authors: Manoharan Dharini , Stephen Jaspin , Radhakrishnan Mahendran
Published: October 2022

This study is aimed to identify the effects of atmospheric and low‐pressure plasma on milk individually and in combination, as the plasma generated and applied at different conditions have variations in the effect on food. Plasma bubbling unit (200 V and 0.24 A) was used for atmospheric plasma and Dielectric Barrier Discharge discharge plasma (70 Pa) with milk passing between the electrodes was used for low‐pressure plasma. After treatment, the initial coliform load of 7.62 log CFU/ml was decreased by a maximum of 1.26, 1.58, and 2.2 log reduction, when milk was treated using low‐pressure plasma (2 kV and 3 ml/min milk flow rate), plasma bubbling (10 min) and combination of both atmospheric bubbling and low‐pressure plasma application (10 min bubbling +2 kV and 3 ml/min milk flow rate) respectively. The conductivity (significantly increased) and pH (slight reduction) of milk supported the presence of reactive species. However, alkaline phosphatase activity was not eliminated in plasma‐treated milk; the initial activity in terms of mg phenols/ml of milk was 23.20 which was reduced to 22.57 in low‐pressure plasma and 22.35 in plasma bubbling, however, it increased while both the treatments were combined. The sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis uncovered that the plasma processing didn't have any prominent impact on the protein fractions in milk. Though plasma bubbling was effective compared to low‐pressure plasma, the combination was proved to have a synergistic effect on milk. However, the enzyme structure needs to be studied in the future for analyzing the exact change in the activity.
Arabidopsis EXTRA‐LARGE G PROTEIN 1 (XLG1) functions together with XLG2 and XLG3 in PAMP‐triggered MAPK activation and immunity
Authors: Wang Yiping , Zhang Hailei , Wang Pengxi , Zhong Huan , Liu Wuzhen , Zhang Shoudong , Xiong Liming , Wu Yingying , Xia Yiji
Published: October 2022

Pattern‐triggered immunity (PTI) is an essential strategy used by plants to deploy broad‐spectrum resistance against pathogen attacks. Heterotrimeric G proteins have been reported to contribute to PTI. Of the three non‐canonical EXTRA‐LARGE G PROTEINs (XLGs) in Arabidopsis thaliana, XLG2 and XLG3 were shown to positively regulate immunity, but XLG1 was not considered to function in defense, based on the analysis of a weak xlg1 allele. In this study, we characterized the xlg1 xlg2 xlg3 triple knockout mutants generated from an xlg1 knockout allele. The strong xlg1 xlg2 xlg3 triple mutants compromised pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP)‐triggered activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and resistance to pathogen infection. The three XLGs interacted with MAPK cascade proteins involved in defense signaling, including the MAPK kinase kinases MAPKKK3 and MAPKKK5, the MAPK kinases MKK4 and MKK5, and the MAPKs MPK3 and MPK6. Expressing a constitutively active form of MKK4 restored MAPK activation and partially recovered the compromised disease resistance seen in the strong xlg1 xlg2 xlg3 triple mutant. Furthermore, mutations of all three XLGs largely restored the phenotype of the autoimmunity mutant bak1‐interacting receptor‐like kinase 1. Our study reveals that all three XLGs function redundantly in PAMP‐triggered MAPK activation and plant immunity.
GnRH pulse generator frequency is modulated by kisspeptin and GABA‐glutamate interactions in the posterodorsal medial amygdala in female mice
Authors: Lass Geffen , Li Xiao Feng , Voliotis Margaritis , Wall Ellen , de Burgh Ross A. , Ivanova Deyana , McIntyre Caitlin , Lin Xian‐Hua , Colledge William H. , Lightman Stafford L. , Tsaneva‐Atanasova Krasimira , O'Byrne Kevin T.
Published: October 2022

Kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus generate gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) pulses, and act as critical initiators of functional gonadotrophin secretion and reproductive competency. However, kisspeptin in other brain regions, most notably the posterodorsal subnucleus of the medial amygdala (MePD), plays a significant modulatory role over the hypothalamic kisspeptin population; our recent studies using optogenetics have shown that low‐frequency light stimulation of MePD kisspeptin results in increased luteinsing hormone pulse frequency. Nonetheless, the neurochemical pathways that underpin this regulatory function remain unknown. To study this, we have utilised an optofluid technology, precisely combining optogenetic stimulation with intra‐nuclear pharmacological receptor antagonism, to investigate the neurotransmission involved in this circuitry. We have shown experimentally and verified using a mathematical model that functional neurotransmission of both GABA and glutamate is a requirement for effective modulation of the GnRH pulse generator by amygdala kisspeptin neurons.
A coordinated health policy in response to COVID‐19: A case of Botswana
Authors: Seloilwe Esther S. , Kealeboga Kebope M. , Khutjwe Joyce V.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

This paper documents policy decisions and transformations in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic in Botswana and utilizes the multi‐sectoral approach (MSA) in providing this analysis.

Method

A desk review of the different government gazette documents was conducted to trace health policy evolutionary developments and their impact on the general lives of the people of Botswana.

Findings

Revealed the actors, roles in this policy transformation and the conditions that enhanced the smooth implementation of the policies are discussed.

Conclusion

The paper concludes by making some recommendations for the country's preparedness and anticipatory guidance for any other pandemic or disaster that may arise.

Clinical Relevance

This paper highlights the importance of the multisectoral approach in addressing crises such as pandemics. It also demonstrates the need for countries to have well‐defined guidelines to allow decision making in the delivery of efficient health services to the general population during pandemics.
Nurses and COVID‐19 response in Botswana
Authors: Kealeboga Kebope Mongie , Khutjwe Joyce Vuyiswa , Seloilwe Esther Salang
Published: October 2022

Introduction

The advent of the COVID‐19 pandemic necessitated the Botswana Presidential Task Force, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW), to devise strategies to utilize the already overburdened health personnel to combat the spread of the coronavirus. This descriptive case study aimed to describe nurses' role during COVID‐19 in Botswana.

Design and methods

A case study analysis was used to describe nurses' roles during COVID‐19. Data were collected through observing events in various health facilities and various media platforms that described how nurses had to position themselves to combat the pandemic. Content analysis was done by coding and developing categories that put like content together and generate thematic areas.

Results

Nurses from different sectors were redeployed to assist in setting up different units at the COVID‐19 makeshift hospital, taking away from the already understaffed section of health care workers resulting in the overburden and work overload. Furthermore, nurses continued with their regular day‐to‐day nursing care duties in various healthcare settings, albeit under a severe shortage due to the national response to COVID‐19.

Conclusion

Adaptations and experiential strategies enabled the distribution of the nursing workforce to cover all locations to curb the spread of COVID‐19 despite the challenges encountered. Recommendations and lessons learned on how to prepare for future pandemics are also discussed.

Clinical relevance

Due to their large numbers, nurses formed the backbone of the Botswana COVID‐19 response strategy. Therefore, policy‐makers should be responsive to the nurses' perspectives when developing strategic policies on how to deal with pandemics based on their experiences.
Experiences of adults living with a kidney transplant—Effects on physical activity, physical function, and quality of life: A descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Antoun Joe , Brown Daniel J. , Clarkson Beth G. , Shepherd Anthony I. , Sangala Nicholas C. , Lewis Robert J. , McNarry Melitta A. , Mackintosh Kelly A. , Corbett Jo , Saynor Zoe L.
Published: October 2022

Background

Although kidney transplantation is the best treatment for kidney failure, scarce research has examined its effects on physical activity, physical function and quality of life.

Objectives

To investigate the experiences of a group of adults living with advanced kidney disease focusing on quality of life, physical activity and function and to see how findings differ in a group of kidney transplant recipients.

Approach

Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with adults with advanced kidney disease (n = 10; 70.5 ± 8.9 years) and adults who had received a kidney transplant (n = 10; 50.7 ± 11.5 years; transplant age: 42.7 ± 20.9 months). Interviews were transcribed verbatim, thematically analysed and composite vignettes developed.

Findings

Individuals with advanced kidney disease described a sense of loss and alteration to their life plans. Kidney transplant recipients reported increased freedom, independence and a return to near normality, with improved quality of life, physical activity and function compared with their pre‐transplant lives. However, transplant recipients also described living with anxiety about the health of their transplant and fear it may fail.

Conclusion

Whilst adults living with advanced kidney disease often experience a reduced quality of life, physical activity and function, kidney transplantation can help facilitate a return to pre‐disease levels of physical activity, physical function and quality of life. However, transplant recipients also reported living with anxiety around their new kidney failing. This study demonstrates the variability in the lived experiences of adults living with advanced kidney disease or a kidney transplant and highlights the need for patient‐centred care.
Ophidiomycosis is related to seasonal patterns of reproduction, ecdysis, and thermoregulatory behavior in a free‐living snake species
Authors: Lind C. M. , Agugliaro J. , Lorch J. M. , Farrell T. M.
Published: October 2022

Informed and effective management of emerging infectious diseases can be improved by a clear understanding of host–pathogen–environment interactions. Impacts of the seasonal environment on pathogen dynamics and host responses are poorly described in most reptile host–fungal pathogen systems. Here, we describe seasonal patterns of ophidiomycosis, a disease caused by the fungus Ophidiomyces ophidiicola (Oo), in a population of pygmy rattlesnakes, Sistrurus miliarius, in central Florida. We used field observations of gross clinical signs of disease in combination with qPCR on skin swabs to examine the seasonal prevalence of Oo and patterns of clinical presentation in hosts. We monitored thermoregulatory behaviors, ecdysis, and reproductive status in free‐living snakes to examine seasonal associations between infection and host coping responses. Both the prevalence of Oo and clinical signs of disease varied strongly with the season (winter high and summer low). In both seasons, the presence of clinical signs was a strong predictor of the presence of Oo as identified by qPCR on skin swabs (78% probability across seasons). Snakes with clinical signs of disease were more likely to be observed exhibiting thermoregulatory behavior or in ecdysis compared to non‐clinical snakes across seasons. The prevalence of Oo was not significantly different in pregnant snakes compared to other reproductive categories, but pregnant females were less likely to exhibit clinical signs of disease compared to males. Our results highlight strong seasonal patterns in both host clinical signs and Oo prevalence and support the efficacy of using gross clinical signs of disease in combination with qPCR on skin swabs to assess disease dynamics in free‐living snakes. We also identify ecdysis and thermoregulatory behaviors as components of the seasonal disease‐coping response and highlight the need to examine these behaviors as potential drivers of seasonal infection outcomes in reptiles afflicted with fungal pathogens.
Chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis: Serial clinical and CT findings correlated with antifungal treatment and patient response
Authors: Nam Yoojin , Moon Seong Mi , Shin Beomsu , Ko Nak Gyeong , An Junho , Wi Yu Mi , Lee Kyung Soo
Published: October 2022

Background

Chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis (CCPA) is the most common form of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis.

Objective

We hypothesise that by observing serial clinical and CT findings of CCPA patients with antifungal therapy, factors helping predict responses to antifungal therapy could be withdrawn.

Methods

A total of 31 patients with CCPA who received antifungal therapy for greater than six months and who had serial CT studies were included. Clinical finding analyses were performed at initial and last follow‐up CT acquisition dates. Clinical characteristics and CT features were compared between clinically improving or stable and deteriorating groups.

Results

With antifungal therapy, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (2.66 vs. 5.12, p = .038) and serum albumin (4.40 vs. 3.85 g/dl, p = .013) and CRP (1.10 vs. 42.80 mg/L, p = .007) were different between two groups. With antifungal therapy, meaningful CT change, regardless of clinical response grouping, was decrease in cavity wall thickness (from 13.70 mm to 8.28 mm, p < .001). But baseline (p = .668) and follow‐up (p = .278) cavity wall thickness was not different between two groups. In univariate analysis, initial maximum diameter of cavity (p = .028; HR [0.983], 95% CI [0.967–0.998]) and concurrent NTM infection (p = .030; HR [0.20], 95% CI [0.05–0.86]) were related factors for poor clinical response.

Conclusions

With antifungal therapy, cavities demonstrate wall thinning. Of all clinical and radiological findings and their changes, initial large cavity size and concurrent presence of NTM infection are related factors to poor response to antifungal therapy.
miR‐450b promotes cell migration and invasion by inhibiting SERPINB2 in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiaotang , Nie Xiaocui , Xu Guoqiang , Gao Jiping , Wang Binhong , Yang Junting , Song Guohua
Published: October 2022

Objective

microRNA‐450b (miR‐450b) plays an important role in cancer progression; however, its function in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the action mechanisms of miR‐450b in OSCC.

Materials and Methods

OSCC animal model was established via continuous induction with single‐drug 7, 12‐dimethylbenzo[a]anthracene (DMBA). Animal tissue samples were pathologically typed using haematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was used to predict miR‐450b and SERPINB2 expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). qRT‐PCR and Western blotting were used to detect gene and protein expression in OSCC tissue and cells, respectively. OSCC cell proliferation, growth, migration and invasion were detected using CCK‐8, colony formation, transwell migration and matrigel invasion assays, respectively. Bioinformatic tools were used to predict miR‐450b target genes. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay was used to verify targeting between miR‐450b and SERPINB2. Finally, small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to reduce SERPINB2 expression to detect its effect on tumourigenesis.

Results

Four stages of OSCC carcinogenesis (normal oral epithelium, simple epithelial hyperplasia, dysplasia and OSCC) were identified. miR‐450b was found to be overexpressed in OSCC animal samples, HNSCC samples and human OSCC cells. Upregulation of miR‐450b significantly promoted OSCC cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion, while its downregulation had the opposite effect. SERPINB2 was found to be a miR‐450b target gene, and its expression was negatively correlated with miR‐450b expression. Altering SERPINB2 expression effectively inhibited OSCC cell invasion, metastasis and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Conclusions

miR‐450b plays a key role in OSCC tumourigenesis by regulating OSCC cell migration, invasion and EMT via SERPINB2.
Idiosyncratic shifts in life‐history traits at species' geographic range edges
Authors: Latron Mathilde , Arnaud Jean‐François , Schmitt Eric , Duputié Anne
Published: October 2022

Anthropogenic changes drive shifts in species' geographic distributions and increase the occurrence of leading or trailing‐edge marginal populations. Theoretical predictions and empirical observations indicate substantial changes in life‐history traits in marginal populations, often involving dispersal and reproductive abilities. Using a common garden experiment, we studied the variation of life‐history traits of populations sampled on spatial gradients extending from range‐core to range‐edge habitats for three expanding (miner's lettuceClaytonia perfoliata, Danish scurvygrassCochlearia danicaand rock samphireCrithmum maritimum) and one receding plant species (dune pansyViola tricolorsubs.curtisii). We monitored life‐history traits related to dispersal, phenology, survival, reproductive output and selfing ability. Significant shifts in life‐history traits between central and marginal populations strongly differed among species. Marginal populations of the three expanding species displayed modified seed weight in natura, suggesting increased dispersal abilities in leading‐edge populations. Discarding unassessed maternal effects, this trait modification can be due to phenotypic plasticity or to genetic differentiation. In miner's lettuce, marginal expanding populations show advanced phenology and higher reproductive output, that may potentially influence their colonization ability. In rock samphire, life‐history traits showed large intra‐ and inter‐population variability that did not follow a core‐to‐edge geographic trend, except for seed size. Finally, the receding populations of the dune pansy displayed a shift towards a plant architecture maximizing survival but reducing individual reproductive success. Altogether, our results indicated a common trend for increased dispersal abilities in marginal populations of expanding species. However, shifts in species' distributions may drive idiosyncratic changes in other life‐history traits, for which we observed no general evolutionary syndrome at range edges. These findings go along a stochastic view of trait evolution during range expansion, and question how to draw predictive projections of species' distribution shifts under current global change.
Association between isolated abnormal coagulation profile on transfusion following major surgery: A NSQIP analysis of individuals without bleeding disorders
Authors: Lim Kelvin , Satkunasivam Raj , Nipper Cole , Xu Jiaqiong , Hsu Enshuo , Slawin Jeremy R. , Roy Trisha , Allenson Kelvin C. , Kim Min P. , Barber Sean M. , Ellis Taryn , Akinsola Olutiwa , Klaassen Zachary , Esnaola Nestor , Ravi Bheeshma , Jerath Angela , Wallis Christopher J. D.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Preoperative coagulation screening for patients without bleeding disorders remains controversial. The combinatorial risk of INR, aPTT, and platelet count (PLT) abnormalities leading to bleeding requiring transfusion is not known in these patients. We examined the association between abnormal coagulation profile and the risk of transfusion following common elective surgery in patients without bleeding disorders.

Study Design and Methods

We utilized the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database from 2004 to 2018 to identify patients without a history of bleeding disorders undergoing common 23 major elective procedures across 10 specialties. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association between coagulation profile and bleeding requiring packed red blood cell transfusion intra−/post‐operatively.

Results

Of the 672,075 patients meeting inclusion criteria, 53.7% presented with normal coagulation profile preoperatively. Overall, 12.2% (n = 82,368) received transfusion. In the setting of normal aPTT/PLT, both Equivocal INR of 1.1–1.5 (aOR 1.41, 95% CI 1.38–1.44) and Abnormal INR of >1.5 (aOR 1.81, 95% CI 1.71–1.93) were significantly associated with an increased risk of transfusion. Equivocal (60–70) and Abnormal (>70) aPTT with normal INR/PLT did not demonstrate a comparable risk of transfusion. We observed a synergistic effect of combinatorial lab abnormalities on the risk of transfusion when both Abnormal INR/aPTT and Low PLT of <100,000 were present (aOR 5.18, 95% CI 3.04–8.84), compared to the effect of Abnormal INR/aPTT and normal/elevated PLT (aOR 1.90, 95% CI 1.48–2.45).

Discussion

The preoperative presence of abnormal findings in INR or PLT was significantly associated with the risk of bleeding requiring transfusion during intraoperative and postoperative periods.
Sponsorship and the Resource-Based View of the Firm: Effects on the Acquisition of Resources, Demand, the Recruitment of Human Capital, and Organizational Performance
Authors: Jensen Jonathan A. , Wakefield Lane , Walkup Brian
Published: October 2022

Numerous studies have investigated the influence of sponsors on the sport organizations with whom they partner. However, rather than simply assessing the impact of a new, incremental sponsor, which should result in a net positive for the sponsored organization, we quantify and isolate the effect of resources provided upon the switch of one sponsor to another. Furthermore, the resource-based view of the firm is utilized as a theoretical lens to understand the effects of these resources on demand, the ability to recruit human capital, and organizational performance. In Study 1, we analyze 15 years of data from 98 sponsorship agreements, finding that switches provide additional resources, but do not positively impact demand, recruiting, or performance, even in subsequent years. In Study 2, we find that the financial commitment necessary to acquire a sponsorship from a competitor does not result in a corresponding increase in shareholder value for the sponsoring firm.
Navigating a White, Male Space: The Lived Experiences of Black, Female Ice Hockey Fans
Authors: Andrijiw Andre M. , Michelle Richardson F.
Published: October 2022

With few exceptions, researchers have seldom explored the experiences of any female sport fan who may be identified as a member of a racial minority. Given related calls for further research, an examination into the lived experiences of ice hockey fans who identify as Black and female was undertaken. Interviews with 18 such fans revealed that the sport and its fandom were akin to ‘White spaces’: therein, participants were keenly aware of their minoritized place; subject to racial and gender stereotyping and discrimination; and prone to experiencing exclusion and trepidation. Conversely, interactions with the Black Girl Hockey Club, an organization devoted to making ice hockey more diverse and accessible, provoked feelings of belongingness and validation; and afforded a means through which interviewees could deepen their engagement with the sport. The research participants’ lived experiences ultimately point to the need for organizations and managers to construct more inclusive spaces.
Systematic inference identifies a major source of heterogeneity in cell signaling dynamics: The rate-limiting step number
Authors: Kim Dae Wook , Hong Hyukpyo , Kim Jae Kyoung
Published: October 2022

Identifying the sources of cell-to-cell variability in signaling dynamics is essential to understand drug response variability and develop effective therapeutics. However, it is challenging because not all signaling intermediate reactions can be experimentally measured simultaneously. This can be overcome by replacing them with a single random time delay, but the resulting process is non-Markovian, making it difficult to infer cell-to-cell heterogeneity in reaction rates and time delays. To address this, we developed an efficient and scalable moment-based Bayesian inference method (MBI) with a user-friendly computational package that infers cell-to-cell heterogeneity in the non-Markovian signaling process. We applied MBI to single-cell expression profiles from promoters responding to antibiotics and discovered a major source of cell-to-cell variability in antibiotic stress response: the number of rate-limiting steps in signaling cascades. This knowledge can help identify effective therapies that destroy all pathogenic or cancer cells, and the approach can be applied to precision medicine.
NGF-p75 signaling coordinates skeletal cell migration during bone repair
Authors: Xu Jiajia , Li Zhao , Tower Robert J. , Negri Stefano , Wang Yiyun , Meyers Carolyn A. , Sono Takashi , Qin Qizhi , Lu Amy , Xing Xin , McCarthy Edward F. , Clemens Thomas L. , James Aaron W.
Published: October 2022

Bone regeneration following injury is initiated by inflammatory signals and occurs in association with infiltration by sensory nerve fibers. Together, these events are believed to coordinate angiogenesis and tissue reprogramming, but the mechanism of coupling immune signals to reinnervation and osteogenesis is unknown. Here, we found that nerve growth factor (NGF) is expressed following cranial bone injury and signals via p75 in resident mesenchymal osteogenic precursors to affect their migration into the damaged tissue. Mice lacking
Ngf
in myeloid cells demonstrated reduced migration of osteogenic precursors to the injury site with consequently delayed bone healing. These features were phenocopied by mice lacking
p75
in
Pdgfra
+
osteoblast precursors. Single-cell transcriptomics identified mesenchymal subpopulations with potential roles in cell migration and immune response, altered in the context of
p75
deletion. Together, these results identify the role of p75 signaling pathway in coordinating skeletal cell migration during early bone repair.
Whole-Genome Sequencing of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Isolates with Antimicrobial Resistance Plasmids from a Homeless Community in Colombia
Authors: Gómez Oscar Mauricio , Velez Diego E. , McEwen Juan G. , Villegas Aracelly
Published: October 2022

Neisseria gonorrhoeae
is a pathogenic bacterium causing sexually transmitted infections, and it is associated with high antibiotic resistance rates. Here, we describe the genome sequences of four isolates from a homeless community in Colombia.
Dioxane-Linked Novel Bacterial Topoisomerase Inhibitors Exhibit Bactericidal Activity against Planktonic and Biofilm Staphylococcus aureus
In Vitro
Authors: Chen Anna , Dellos-Nolan Sheri , Lu Yanran , West Jason S. , Wozniak Daniel J. , Mitton-Fry Mark J.
Published: October 2022

The pathogen
Staphylococcus aureus
contributes substantially to infection-related mortality. Biofilms render bacteria more recalcitrant to antibacterial therapy. The manuscript describes the potent activity of a new class of antibacterial agents against both planktonic and biofilm populations of
Staphylococcus aureus
.
Using a 29-mRNA Host Response Classifier To Detect Bacterial Coinfections and Predict Outcomes in COVID-19 Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department
Authors: Ram-Mohan Nikhil , Rogers Angela J. , Blish Catherine A. , Nadeau Kari C. , Zudock Elizabeth J. , Kim David , Quinn James V. , Sun Lixian , Liesenfeld Oliver ,   The Stanford COVID-19 Biobank Study Group, Yang Samuel ,   The additional author members of the Stanford COVID-19 Biobank Study Group are as follows:, Hashemi Marjan M. , Tjandra Kristel C. , Newberry Jennifer A. , Blomkalns Andra L. , O’Hara Ruth , Ashley Euan , Mann Rosen , Visweswaran Anita , Ranganath Thanmayi , Roque Jonasel , Manohar Monali , Din Hena Naz , Kumar Komal , Jee Kathryn , Noon Brigit , Anderson Jill , Fay Bethany , Schreiber Donald , Zhao Nancy , Vergara Rosemary , McKechnie Julia , Wilk Aaron , de la Parte Lauren , Dantzler Kathleen Whittle , Ty Maureen , Kathale Nimish , Rustagi Arjun , Martinez-Colon Giovanny , Ivison Geoff , Pi Ruoxi , Lee Maddie , Brewer Rachel , Hollis Taylor , Baird Andrea , Ugur Michele , Bogusch Drina , Nahass Georgie , Haider Kazim , Tran Kim Quyen Thi , Simpson Laura , Tal Michal , Chang Iris , Do Evan , Fernandes Andrea , Lee Allie , Ahuja Neera , Snow Theo , Krempski James
Published: October 2022

We assay the utility of the single-test IMX-BVN-3/IMX-SEV-3 classifiers that require just 2.5 mL of patient blood in concurrently detecting viral and bacterial infections as well as predicting the severity and 30-day outcome from the infection. A point-of-care device, in development, will circumvent the need for blood culturing and drastically reduce the time needed to detect an infection.
Preterm birth and prescriptions for cardiovascular, antiseizure, antibiotics and antiasthmatic medication in children up to 10 years of age: a population-based data linkage cohort study across six European regions
Authors: Damkjaer Mads , Loane Maria , Urhøj Stine Kjær , Ballardini Elisa , Cavero- Carbonell Clara , Coi Alessio , García-Villodre Laura , Given Joanne Emma , Gissler Mika , Heino Anna , Jordan Susan , Neville Amanda , Pierini Anna , Tan Joachim , Scanlon Ieuan , Garne Ester , Morris Joan K
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Preterm children are exposed to many medications in neonatal intensive care units, but little is known about the effect of prematurity on medication use throughout infancy and childhood. We examined prescriptions of cardiovascular medication (CVM), antiseizure medication (ASM), antiasthmatic medication and antibiotics issued/dispensed in the first 10 years of life for very and moderately preterm children compared with term.

Design

Population-based data linkage cohort study linking information from birth records to prescription records.

Setting

Six registries from five countries in the EUROlinkCAT study.

Participants

The study population included 1 722 912 children, of whom 10 820 (0.6%) were very preterm (<32 weeks gestational age (GA)), 92 814 (5.4%) were moderately preterm (32–36 weeks GA), 1 606 643 (93.3%) were born at term (≥37 weeks GA) and 0.7% had missing GA. Children with major or minor congenital anomalies were excluded (including patent ductus arteriosus).

Main outcome measures

Relative risk (RR) of receiving a prescription for CVM, ASM, antiasthmatic and antibiotics.

Results

Very preterm children had a higher RR of receiving a prescription for CVM and ASM than preterm children. For all preterm children, the RR of having a CVM prescription was 3.58 (95% CI 2.06 to 6.23); 2.06 (95% CI 1.73 to 2.41) for ASM; 1.13 (95% CI 0.99 to 1.29) for antiasthmatics and 0.96 (95% CI 0.93 to 0.99) for antibiotics in the first year of life. Increased prescription of CVM, ASM and antiasthmatics persisted for all 10 years of follow-up. Although the RR was highest for CVM and ASM, in absolute numbers more children received prescriptions for antibiotics (42.34%, 95% CI 38.81% to 45.91%) and antiasthmatics (28.40%, 95% CI 16.07% to 42.649%) than for CVM (0.18%, 95% CI 0.12% to 0.25%) and ASM (0.16%, 95% CI 0.13% to 0.20%) in the first year of life.

Conclusion

Preterm children had a higher risk of being prescribed/dispensed CVM, ASM and antiasthmatics up to age 10. This study highlights a need for further research into morbidity beyond age 10.
Comparison of primary cytology, primary HPV testing and co-testing as cervical cancer screening for Chinese women: a population-based screening cohort
Authors: Li Zhi-Fang , Jia Xin-Hua , Feng Xiangxian , Zhang Shaokai , Zhang Xun , Pan Qin-Jing , Zou Xun-Wen , Hao Yue-Qing , Sun Xi-Bin , Qiao You-Lin
Published: October 2022

Objectives

We compared clinical performance of three strategies of primary human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, primary cytology and co-testing for cervical cancer screening.

Design

A population-based prospective cohort study of clinical performance of screening strategy.

Setting

Patients recruited from community in Changzhi County, Shanxi Province, China.

Patient

3209 women aged 30–64 years without gynaecological issues.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The performance of different screening strategies for detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or more severe (CIN2+).

Results

A total of 53 CIN2+ and 31 CIN3+ cases are detected. For CIN2+, sensitivity of primary HPV (95.9%) and co-testing (98.0%) are not statistically different, but significantly higher than primary cytology (48.0%). Specificity (86.8%), colposcopy referral rate (7.8%) and number of colposcopies required to detect one case (9.8) for primary HPV are better than co-testing (79.8%, 11.9%, 14.3%, respectively). For CIN3+, primary HPV, co-testing have 100% of sensitivity and specificity, which is significantly higher than primary cytology (56.7% and 90.2%). Number of colposcopies required to detect one case for primary HPV (15.9) is better than co-testing (23.8).

Conclusions

Compared with co-testing, HPV primary screening had comparable sensitivity and higher specificity for CIN2+ detection, and both of them showed better performance than cytology primary screening in cervical cancer screening.
Impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy-related healthcare utilisation: a prospective nationwide registry study
Authors: Baravelli Carl Michael , Macsali Ferenc , Telle Kjetil , Kinge Jonas Minet , Oakley Laura , Magnus Maria C , Håberg Siri Eldevik
Published: October 2022

Objective

To assess the impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy-related healthcare utilisation and differences across social groups.

Design

Nationwide longitudinal prospective registry-based study.

Setting

Norway.

Participants

Female residents aged 15–50 years (n=1 244 560).

Main outcome measures

Pregnancy-related inpatient, outpatient and primary care healthcare utilisation before the COVID-19 pandemic (prepandemic: 1 January to 11 March 2020), during the initial lockdown (first wave: 12 March to 3 April 2020), during the summer months of low restrictions (summer period: 4 April to 31 August 2020) and during the second wave to the end of the year (second wave: 1 September to 31 December 2020). Rates were compared with the same time periods in 2019.

Results

There were 130 924 inpatient specialist care admissions, 266 015 outpatient specialist care consultations and 2 309 047 primary care consultations with pregnancy-related diagnostic codes during 2019 and 2020. After adjusting for time trends and cofactors, inpatient admissions were reduced by 9% (adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR)=0.91, 95% CI 0.87 to 0.95), outpatient consultations by 17% (aIRR=0.83, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.86) and primary care consultations by 10% (aIRR=0.90, 95% CI 0.89 to 0.91) during the first wave. Inpatient care remained 3%–4% below prepandemic levels throughout 2020. Reductions according to education, income and immigrant background were also observed. Notably, women born in Asia, Africa or Latin America had a greater reduction in inpatient (aIRR=0.87, 95% CI 0.77 to 0.97) and outpatient (aIRR 0.90, 95% CI 0.86 to 0.95) care during the first wave, compared with Norwegian-born women. We also observed that women with low education had a greater reduction in inpatient care during summer period (aIRR=0.88, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.92), compared with women with high educational attainment.

Conclusion

Following the introduction of COVID-19 mitigation measures in Norway in March 2020, there were substantial reductions in pregnancy-related healthcare utilisation, especially during the initial lockdown and among women with an immigrant background.
Domestic Abuse Sibling studY (DASY): a multimethod study protocol
Authors: Donagh Ben , Bradbury-Jones Caroline , Swift Amelia , Taylor Julie
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) is an everyday aspect of many children and young people’s lives, both in the home and in their own relationships. Studies estimate that up to one million children and young people experience some form of DVA each year in the UK. Although the majority of families experiencing DVA have more than one child, most research to date has focused on individual children within these families. This study aims to explore the views of practitioners, parent/carers and young people on sibling responses in the context and aftermath of DVA. Our protocol has followed SPIRIT guidelines.

Methods and analysis

We propose a multimethod study consisting of semistructured interviews, the completion of Sibling Relationship Questionnaires, photovoice interviews and illustrative case studies to explore sibling experiences in the context and aftermath of DVA. A purposive sample of front-line practitioner participants will be recruited and interviewed first. We will ask them to introduce us to parent/carer and young people participants using a snowball approach (n=70). Qualitative data will be analysed through reflexive thematic analysis, theoretically underpinned by critical realism, to explore patterns in participants’ views and experiences of siblings in the context and aftermath of DVA. Quantitative data collected from the Sibling Relationship Questionnaire’s four domains (warmth/closeness, power/status, conflict and rivalry) will be analysed. Data triangulation of the quantitative and qualitative data within this study will occur at the results interpretation stage.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from the University of Birmingham Research Ethic Committee (ERN_21-0795). Findings will be published in open access peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant conferences and events. Child-facing infographics and front-line practitioner guides will also be produced.