bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparing children to cope with earthquakes: Building emotional competence
Authors: Raccanello Daniela , Vicentini Giada , Rocca Emmanuela , Hall Rob , Burro Roberto
Published: May 2023

Natural disasters, including earthquakes, can have a traumatic impact on children's psychological wellbeing and development. The efficacy of interventions aimed at enhancing children's socio‐emotional learning has been documented in the literature. At the same time, these techniques are the key for training children for possible future disasters by enhancing their knowledge about behavioural preparedness and emotional competence. However, research on evidence‐based training programs on earthquakes combining digital and traditional activities is scarce. We tested the efficacy of a 10‐unit training program for primary school children, developed within the Emotional Prevention and Earthquakes in Primary School (PrEmT) project. The program aimed at increasing knowledge of and metacognition about earthquakes, safety behaviours, emotions, and coping strategies, through digital (using the web‐application HEMOT®, Helmet for EMOTions, developed ad‐hoc) and traditional activities (completing paper‐and‐pencil tasks). The participants were 548 second and fourth‐graders from Italian schools. They were divided into an experimental group (participating in the training program) and a control group. Both groups participated in pretests and posttests to evaluate changes in their knowledge of training‐related contents. For ethical reasons, we also measured children's wellbeing. Generalized linear mixed models indicated an improvement in the experimental group's knowledge and metacognition about earthquakes, safety behaviours, emotions, and coping strategies after the training program, compared to the control group. Children's general wellbeing did not deteriorate during participation in the project. The results documented the efficacy of the evidence‐based training program developed within the PrEmT project. The program provides a preventive method for enhancing earthquake‐related resilience that could be generalized to other kinds of disasters.
Preclinical biocompatibility and biosafety evaluation of a new foldable brown diaphragm intraocular lens: An in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Zhang Keke , Zhang Shaohua , He Wenwen , Lu Yi , Zhu Xiangjia
Published: May 2023

Background

A new foldable brown diaphragm intraocular lens (IOL) was preclinically evaluated in vitro and in vivo by comparing its biocompatibility and biosafety with those of a commercially available IOL.

Methods

The new foldable iris‐diaphragm IOL is composed of hydrophobic acrylic material, with a transparent optical zone and surrounding brown diaphragm. Cellular experiments evaluating lens epithelial cell morphology, adhesion, and migration were conducted to exclude cytotoxic effects. Twelve New Zealand rabbits underwent implantation of a brown diaphragm IOL in one eye, whilst an additional 12 had a commercially available foldable IOL implanted, followed by slit‐lamp evaluations of inflammatory reactions and capsular opacification. Corneal endothelial cells density was measured before and after implantation. Aqueous humour samples were obtained weekly for liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis to investigate dye leakage from the brown‐diaphragm IOL. Following 12 weeks of observation, haematoxylin and eosin staining of ocular tissue and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the IOL surface were performed.

Results

Results from in vivo experiments found no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative inflammation and capsular biocompatibility. No significant changes in corneal endothelial cell density were observed in either group before and after surgery. LC–MS/MS analysis showed that the target dye was not detected in aqueous humour samples. Histopathology of ocular sections and SEM imaging of IOL surfaces showed similar changes in both groups.

Conclusions

The newly invented IOL showed good biocompatibility and biosafety. Combined with its foldability and peripheral shading, it could be a new choice for patients with iris defects.
Factors supporting resilience during out‐of‐home care: Experiences of former child welfare clients in Finland
Authors: Kaittila Anniina , Alin Minna , Leinonen Leena , Kraav Siiri‐Liisi , Vornanen Riitta , Karukivi Max , Anis Merja
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to identify factors supporting young people's resilience during out‐of‐home care (OOHC) in Finland, despite challenges in their lives. In our qualitative study, we applied a social‐ecological framework to understand the experiences and perspectives of young people on what helped them and the help they would have needed during OOHC. The findings indicate (1) individual characteristics and interests (positive attitude, understanding own acts and their consequences and meaningful activities), (2) relationships (good relationships with close ones, ability to meet and keep contact with close ones, good relationships with professionals and relationships between parents and professionals) and (3) institutions (place of OOHC, youth‐centered practices, needs‐based services and support for the family) all supported the resilience of young people in OOHC. Further, to receive support from a particular medium, such as professionals (relationship level), a young person must already have some self‐understanding (individual level) of things. Essentially, youth resilience is supported through all these levels as a process.
A preliminary review of the parenting assessment and skill development service: A 10‐day residential service for families at risk of child maltreatment
Authors: Fogarty Alison , Savopoulos Priscilla , Jones Andi , McMahon Grace , Evans Kirsty , O'Brien Jacquie , O'Dea Liz , Clout Peter , Giallo Rebecca
Published: May 2023

Tweddle's Parenting Assessment and Skill Development Service (PASDS) is a 10‐day residential programme for families at risk of child maltreatment. The service aims to conduct a comprehensive parenting capacity assessment to inform case management and improve parenting practices. The aims of the study were to (1) describe the psychosocial functioning of parents taking part in PASDS, (2) describe the key parenting assessment outcomes, and (3) explore parents' experiences of participation in PASDS including (a) perceived barriers and enablers of participation and (b) perceived outcomes for their family. Participants were 18 parents who participated in Tweddle's PASDS in Melbourne, Australia. A mixed methods study comprising a case file review and qualitative interviews was conducted. Parents accessing PASDS had experienced adverse childhood events, and many were experiencing mental health difficulties. Interviews with parents revealed perceived benefits of PASDS in improving parenting knowledge and skills, family relationships, and parenting confidence. At the time of discharge, 33% of families were assessed as unable to provide independent care for their child. The current findings have important implications for the further evaluation of evidenced‐based services which can improve the accuracy of parenting capacity assessments, aiding in child protection decision‐making related to child placement and safety.
Young people's perspectives on assisted dying and its potential inclusion of minors
Authors: Liu Kevin , Siedlikowski Sophia , Mellett James , Carnevale Franco A. , Macdonald Mary Ellen
Published: May 2023

Assisted dying legislation is available to support adult deaths in multiple international jurisdictions. In Canada, a parliamentary committee has recommended extending Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) legislation to include ‘competent mature minors’. Even though such a policy change would affect young people, to date formal discussions about MAID for minors have excluded them. No empirical studies have elicited youth perspectives on including them in future legislation. This qualitative descriptive study uses focus groups to explore young people's perspectives on MAID and its potential extension to include minors using methodological and theoretical commitments to participatory research and children's agency. Our participants explored philosophical and medical dimensions of MAID, including pain and suffering, the choice to die, and how MAID enables a peaceful, controlled death. They unpacked the concept of maturity vis‐à‐vis age and a child/adult binary, using these reflections to posit safeguards for ensuring minors' MAID requests would be fairly evaluated. Finally, they explored relational dimensions of dying, paying particular attention to the impact of MAID on grievers. Our results illustrate that young people are capable and keen to contribute toward discussions and decisions about MAID. Our study supports the participation of young people in any extension of MAID, as well as in other high‐stakes matters that may affect them, challenging dominant assumptions that underestimate their capacities to do so.
Exosomes‐mediated crosstalk between glioma and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Guo Xu , Sui Rui , Piao Haozhe
Published: May 2023

Gliomas are the most common primary malignant tumors in the central nervous system. However, conventional treatments, such as surgical resection and postoperative combined chemo‐ and radio‐therapy, are ineffective in improving patients' long‐term survival. The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of stromal cells, tumor components, and innate and acquired immune cells, and these cells, along with the extracellular matrix, regulate and communicate intercellularly to promote TME formation. The immune microenvironment plays a vital role in the development of glioma. Exosomes, which are extracellular vesicles (EVs), facilitate intercellular communication and regulation within the TME. Tumor cells can release exosomes to transmit messages, induce macrophage polarization, and inhibit immune cell activity, ultimately promoting metastasis and immune evasion. Moreover, immune cells can regulate tumorigenesis and progression through exosomes. This review summarized the biological properties of exosomes and their effects on the tumor microenvironment and provides an overview of the interactions between glioma cells and immune cells.
Mendelian randomization study and meta‐analysis exploring the causality of age at menarche and the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage and ischemic stroke
Authors: Zou Xuelun , Wang Leiyun , Wang Sai , Zhang Le
Published: May 2023

Background

The relationship between the age at menarche (AAM) and the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and ischemic stroke (IS) is still up for debate. The purpose of this study was to investigate potential causal connections between them.

Methods

Genome‐wide association analysis (GWAS) of AAM conducted by the MRC‐IEU consortium was utilized for association analyses of ICH and IS by two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study. AAM data of the within‐family GWAS consortium were used as replication phase data to verify the causal relationship between each other. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) method was the primary method used in this MR study. For additional proof, the weighted median estimation, MR‐Egger regression, MR‐PRESSO test, and MR‐Robust Adjusted Profile Score evaluation were performed. The Cochran's Q test and the MR‐PRESSO global test were used, respectively, to examine the sensitivity and pleiotropy. Random effects meta‐analysis was utilized to analyze the causal data from the two consortiums to further explore the causality between AAM and ICH, IS.

Results

We found that the AAM was causally linked with the risk of ICH (OR = 0.48, 95% CI: 0.28–0.80, p = 0.006). On the contrary, the causal effect from AAM to IS (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.91–1.06, p = 0.64) has not been confirmed. For all subtypes of ICH, we found that nonlobar intracerebral hemorrhage (NLICH, OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.23–0.75, p = 0.004) but not lobar intracerebral hemorrhage (LICH, OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.34–1.24, p = 0.19) was associated with AAM without surprise. Similarly, we used the within‐family GWAS consortium data to explore causality and found that AAM may reduce the risk of ICH (OR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.72–0.86, p = 9.5 × 10−8) and NLICH (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.61–0.75, p = 3.4 × 10−13) by IVW methods, but is not related to IS (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.93–1.02, p = 0.26). These findings are further supported by the meta‐analysis. Both Cochran's Q test and the MR‐PRESSO global test failed to detect the presence of sensitivity.

Conclusion

AAM and ICH, particularly NLICH, are causally related, but not LICH, IS, or its subtypes in European population.
Does dialysis modality or duration influence outcomes in simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplant recipients? Single center experience and review of the literature
Authors: Coffman David , Jay Colleen L. , McCracken Emily , Sharda Berjesh , Garner Matthew , Webb Christopher , Farney Alan C , Orlando Giuseppe , Reeves‐Daniel Amber , Mena‐Gutierrez Alejandra , Sakhovskaya Natalia , Stratta Bobby , Stratta Robert J
Published: May 2023

Aim

The influence of dialysis modality and duration on outcomes following simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation (SPKT) remains uncertain.

Methods

We performed a single‐center retrospective review in 255 SPKT recipients according to dialysis modality (55 preemptive/no dialysis‐ND, 70 peritoneal dialysis–PD, 130 hemodialysis–HD) and duration (55 none, 137 < 2 years, 41 2‐4 years, 22 > 4 years).

Results

Mean follow‐up was 9.4 years (median 9.2 years). Early (3‐month) relaparotomy rate (20% ND vs. 36% PD/HD, p = .03) was lower in ND patients. There were no differences in early graft loss, patient survival, overall or death‐censored kidney or pancreas graft survival rates (GSR) at 1 or 10 years follow‐up. When analyzing dialysis duration, there were no differences in rates of pancreas thrombosis or early pancreas graft loss. Kidney delayed graft function (DGF) was lower in the ND/short dialysis groups combined (1.0%), compared to the intermediate/long dialysis groups combined (9.5%, p = .003). Early relaparotomy rates were higher with longer duration of dialysis (p = .045 between ND and >4 years of dialysis). Patient survival in the long dialysis group was 50% compared to 69.5% in the other three groups combined (p = .09). However, both overall and death‐censored kidney and pancreas GSR were comparable.

Conclusions

Preemptively transplanted patients had a lower incidence of kidney DGF and relaparotomy whereas patient survival was slightly lower with longer dialysis vintage prior to SPKT. Dialysis modality and duration did not influence either overall or death‐censored pancreas or kidney GSR in patients with short waiting times, low KDPI donor organs, and dialysis duration up to 4 years.
Preventing type 2 diabetes: A research agenda for behavioural science
Authors: French David P. , Ahern Amy L. , Greaves Colin J. , Hawkes Rhiannon E. , Higgs Suzanne , Pechey Rachel , Sniehotta Falko F.
Published: May 2023

Aims

The aim of this narrative review was to identify important knowledge gaps in behavioural science relating to type 2 diabetes prevention, to inform future research in the field.

Methods

Seven researchers who have published behaviour science research applied to type 2 diabetes prevention independently identified several important gaps in knowledge. They met to discuss these and to generate recommendations to advance research in behavioural science of type 2 diabetes prevention.

Results

A total of 21 overlapping recommendations for a research agenda were identified. These covered issues within the following broad categories: (a) evidencing the impact of whole population approaches to type 2 diabetes prevention, (b) understanding the utility of disease‐specific approaches to type 2 diabetes prevention such as Diabetes Prevention Programmes (DPPs) compared to generic weight loss programmes, (c) identifying how best to increase reach and engagement of DPPs, whilst avoiding exacerbating inequalities, (d) the need to understand mechanism of DPPs, (e) the need to understand how to increase maintenance of changes as part of or following DPPs, (f) the need to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of alternative approaches to the typical self‐regulation approaches that are most commonly used, and (g) the need to address emotional aspects of DPPs, to promote effectiveness and avoid harms.

Conclusions

There is a clear role for behavioural science in informing interventions to prevent people from developing type 2 diabetes, based on strong evidence of reach, effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness. This review identifies key priorities for research needed to improve existing interventions.
Efficacy of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation treatment in refractory chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zheng Yongsheng , Hu Jianian , Sun Chong , Zhao Chongbo , Lin Jie
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Treatment options for chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) are intravenous immunoglobulin, plasmapheresis, corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs. However, a substantial proportion of patients with CIDP remain refractory to treatment and develop severe functional disability. A systematic review and a meta‐analysis of the efficacy of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) treatment in refractory CIDP patients was performed.

Methods

The study is based on queries in the PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Web of Science and clinicaltrials.gov databases on 4 December 2022. Articles that met our eligibility criteria were included after screening. Patients' characteristics, treatment regime and outcome measures were extracted.

Results

Eighty‐nine patients in 11 studies were included. The pooled estimate of responsiveness amongst the four included studies was 87.04% (95% confidence interval 66.7%–99.5%) and the pooled estimate of freedom of all immune modulating or suppressive drugs was 80.75% (95% confidence interval 71.2%–90.2%).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis and systematic review suggested that HSCT can be effective in the treatment of refractory CIDP. Whilst there are risks involved, HSCT may be a beneficial and viable therapy for refractory CIDP when carefully evaluated.
Clinical spectrum and frequency of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease in Italy: Data from the National CMT Registry
Authors: Pisciotta Chiara , Bertini Alessandro , Tramacere Irene , Manganelli Fiore , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Schenone Angelo , Tozza Stefano , Cavallaro Tiziana , Taioli Federica , Ferrarini Moreno , Grandis Marina , Bellone Emilia , Mandich Paola , Previtali Stefano C. , Falzone Yuri , Allegri Isabella , Padua Luca , Pazzaglia Costanza , Quattrone Aldo , Valentino Paola , Gentile Luca , Russo Massimo , Calabrese Daniela , Moroni Isabella , Pagliano Emanuela , Saveri Paola , Magri Stefania , Baratta Silvia , Taroni Franco , Mazzeo Anna , Santoro Lucio , Vita Giuseppe , Pareyson Davide ,   for the Italian CMT Network
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Data are reported from the Italian CMT Registry.

Methods

The Italian CMT Registry is a dual registry where the patient registers and chooses a reference center where the attending clinician collects a minimal dataset of information and administers the Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) Examination/Neuropathy Score. Entered data are encrypted.

Results

Overall, 1012 patients had registered (535 females) and 711 had received a genetic diagnosis. Demyelinating CMT (65.3%) was more common than axonal CMT2 (24.6%) and intermediate CMT (9.0%). The PMP22 duplication was the most frequent mutation (45.2%), followed by variants in GJB1 and MPZ (both ~10%) and MFN2 (3.3%) genes. A relatively high mutation rate in some “rare” genes (HSPB1 1.6%, NEFL 1.5%, SH3TC2 1.5%) and the presence of multiple mutation clusters across Italy was observed. CMT4A was the most disabling type, followed by CMT4C and CMT1E. Disease progression rate differed depending on the CMT subtype. Foot deformities and walking difficulties were the main features. Shoe inserts and orthotic aids were used by almost one‐half of all patients. Scoliosis was present in 20% of patients, especially in CMT4C. Recessive forms had more frequently walking delay, walking support need and wheelchair use. Hip dysplasia occurred in early‐onset CMT.

Conclusions

The Italian CMT Registry has proven to be a powerful data source to collect information about epidemiology and genetic distribution, clinical features and disease progression of CMT in Italy and is a useful tool for recruiting patients in forthcoming clinical trials.
A score that predicts aquaporin‐4 IgG positivity in patients with longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis
Authors: Campetella Lucia , Papi Claudia , Spagni Gregorio , Sabatelli Eleonora , Mariotto Sara , Gastaldi Matteo , Masi Gianvito , Carta Sara , Ahmad Lara , Rossi Francesca , Maniscalco Giorgia Teresa , De Luca Giovanna , Iorio Raffaele
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) associated with aquaporin‐4 autoantibodies (AQP4‐IgG) can cause severe disability. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical to prevent relapses. A novel score is described based on clinical and neuroimaging characteristics that predicts AQP4‐IgG positivity in patients with LETM.

Methods

Patients were enrolled both retrospectively and prospectively from multiple Italian centers. Clinical and neuroimaging characteristics of AQP4‐IgG positive and negative patients were compared through univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

Sixty‐six patients were included. Twenty‐seven (41%) were AQP4‐IgG positive and median age at onset was 45.5 years (range 19–81, interquartile range 24). Female sex (odds ratio [OR] 17.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.6–381.9; p = 0.014), tonic spasms (OR 45.6, 95% CI 3.1–2197; p = 0.017) and lesion hypointensity on T1‐weighted images (OR 52.9, 95% CI 6.8–1375; p = 0.002) were independently associated with AQP4‐IgG positivity. The AQP4‐IgG positivity in myelitis (AIM) score predicted AQP4‐IgG positivity with 85% sensitivity and 95% specificity. Positive and negative likelihood ratios were 16.6 and 0.2 respectively. The inter‐rater and intra‐rater agreement in the score application were both excellent.

Conclusions

The AIM score predicts AQP4‐IgG positivity with good sensitivity and specificity in patients with a first episode of LETM. The score may assist clinicians in early diagnosis and treatment of AQP4‐IgG positive LETM.
Impacts of methotrexate on survival, dendrite development, and synapse formation of cortical neurons
Authors: Yamamura Mai , Hanamura Kenji , Koganezawa Noriko , Furubayashi Senami , Shirao Tomoaki , Kawabe Hiroshi
Published: May 2023

Methotrexate (MTX) is an anti‐metabolite that has been used for the treatment of patients of acute lymphocytic leukemia or non‐Hodgikin lymphoma for decades. In some cases, MTX‐treated patients suffer from neurological side effects, including seizures and cognitive dysfunctions. While most patients are at developmental stages, information of the mechanisms of the side effects of MTX treatment on the developing neurons has been limited. Neurons develop in five steps in the human brain: neurogenesis, polarity formation, dendrite and axon development, synapse formation, and neuronal death. Except for neurogenesis, these processes can be recapitulated in the primary culture system of cortical neurons. Using primary cultured cortical neurons, we studied the impact of MTX treatment on dendrite development, synapse formation, and neuronal death in the present report. MTX treatment impaired neuronal survival, dendrite development, and synapse formation. Interestingly, half maximal effective concentrations (EC50s) of MTX for all three processes are at the similar range and lower than the MTX concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid in treated patients. Our results provide possible mechanisms of neurological side effects in treated patients.
Effect of demand uncertainty on omnichannel distribution network design strategies
Authors: Bilir Canser
Published: May 2023

To investigate the effect of uncertain demand on various omnichannel distribution network strategies and analyze the impacts of various online order fulfillment policies, a two‐staged network optimization model is built. The two stages are a deterministic model to define the optimal distribution network and a simulation model to determine the optimal network flow to maximize the total profit for a given distribution network and online order fulfillment policy. This study shows the importance of taking demand uncertainty, requested delivery time, and customer service level (CSL) into account in designing an omnichannel distribution network. The results of the simulation model indicate that shipments from warehouse (SFW) and hybrid strategies more successfully cope with variation because there is a greater profit decline in shipments from store (SFS) strategies. The results also show that applying a dynamic assignment policy plays an important role in handling variation in demand. The study shows that, as demand uncertainty and CSL increase, having products available in central repositories becomes even more important to cope with demand variation. The study also indicates SFS strategies that seem more profitable in the assumed‐to‐be deterministic model might be misleading because SFS strategies become less profitable (compared to SFW strategies) when demand uncertainty is taken into account.
Soluble Sema4D cleaved from osteoclast precursors by TACE suppresses osteoblastogenesis
Authors: Ishii Takenobu , Ruiz‐Torruella Montserrat , Kim Jae Young , Kanzaki Hiroyuki , Albassam Abdullah , Wisitrasameewong Wichaya , Shindo Satoru , Pierrelus Roodelyne , Heidari Alireza , Kandalam Umadevi , Nakamura Shin , Movila Alexandru , Minond Dmitriy , Kawai Toshihisa
Published: May 2023

Bone remodelling is mediated by orchestrated communication between osteoclasts and osteoblasts which, in part, is regulated by coupling and anti‐coupling factors. Amongst formally known anti‐coupling factors, Semaphorin 4D (Sema4D), produced by osteoclasts, plays a key role in downmodulating osteoblastogenesis. Sema4D is produced in both membrane‐bound and soluble forms; however, the mechanism responsible for producing sSema4D from osteoclasts is unknown. Sema4D, TACE and MT1‐MMP are all expressed on the surface of RANKL‐primed osteoclast precursors. However, only Sema4D and TACE were colocalized, not Sema4D and MT1‐MMP. When TACE and MT1‐MMP were either chemically inhibited or suppressed by siRNA, TACE was found to be more engaged in shedding Sema4D. Anti‐TACE‐mAb inhibited sSema4D release from osteoclast precursors by ~90%. Supernatant collected from osteoclast precursors (OC‐sup) suppressed osteoblastogenesis from MC3T3‐E1 cells, as measured by alkaline phosphatase activity, but OC‐sup harvested from the osteoclast precursors treated with anti‐TACE‐mAb restored osteoblastogenesis activity in a manner that compensates for diminished sSema4D. Finally, systemic administration of anti‐TACE‐mAb downregulated the generation of sSema4D in the mouse model of critical‐sized bone defect, whereas local injection of recombinant sSema4D to anti‐TACE‐mAb‐treated defect upregulated local osteoblastogenesis. Therefore, a novel pathway is proposed whereby TACE‐mediated shedding of Sema4D expressed on the osteoclast precursors generates functionally active sSema4D to suppress osteoblastogenesis.
Categorical and dimensional approaches to the developmental relationship between ADHD and irritability
Authors: Johns‐Mead Rania , Vijayakumar Nandita , Mulraney Melissa , Melvin Glenn , Youssef George , Sciberras Emma , Anderson Vicki A. , Nicholson Jan M. , Efron Daryl , Hazel Philip , Silk Tim J.
Published: May 2023

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and irritability commonly co‐occur, and follow similar developmental trajectories from childhood to adolescence. Understanding of the developmental relationship between these co‐occurrences is limited. This study provides a longitudinal assessment of how ADHD diagnostic status and symptom patterns predict change in irritability.

Methods

A community sample of 337 participants (45.2% ADHD), recruited for the Childhood Attention Project, completed the Affective Reactivity Index (ARI) to measure irritability at baseline (mean age 10.5 years) and follow‐up after 18‐months. Latent change score models were used to assess how (a) baseline ADHD vs. control group status, (b) baseline symptom domain (inattention, hyperactivity–impulsivity) and (c) longitudinal change in ADHD symptom severity predicted change in irritability.

Results

Irritability was significantly higher among the ADHD group than controls; however, change in irritability over time did not differ between groups. When assessed across the entire cohort, change in irritability was predicted by higher symptom count in the hyperactive–impulsive domain, but not the inattentive domain. Greater declines in ADHD symptoms over time significantly predicted greater declines in irritability. Baseline ADHD symptom severity was found to significantly predict change in irritability; however, baseline irritability did not significantly predict change in ADHD symptoms.

Conclusions

ADHD symptoms—particularly hyperactive–impulsive symptoms—predict the degree and trajectory of irritability during childhood and adolescence, even when symptoms are below diagnostic thresholds. The use of longitudinal, dimensional and symptom domain‐specific measures provides additional insight into this relationship.
The relationship between the pharmacist's role, patient understanding and satisfaction during the provision of a cost‐effective pharmacist‐led intervention
Authors: Manfrin Andrea
Published: May 2023

Rationale, Aims and Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the pharmacist's role, patient understanding and satisfaction during the provision of a cost‐effective pharmacist‐led intervention using structural equation modelling (SEM). SEM is a group of statistical techniques used in different disciplines to model latent variables and evaluate theories.

Methods

A validated questionnaire was used to gather patient views on a pharmacist‐led intervention. A conceptual model was developed to test the statistical significance of the relationship between patient understanding and satisfaction, the pharmacist's role and patient understanding, the pharmacist's role and patient satisfaction. In addition, the study evaluated the model's in‐sample and out‐of‐sample predictive power. The analysis tested fours hypotheses (H): 1) There was no significant relationship between patient understanding and patient satisfaction; 2) There was no significant relationship between the pharmacist's role and patient understanding; 3) There was no significant relationship between the pharmacist's role and patient satisfaction; 4) The in‐sample and out‐of‐sample predictive power of the model. Data were analysed using Smart‐PLS software version 3.2.8.

Results

Two hundred and forty‐six patients returned the questionnaire. Construct reliability, validity (Cronbach's alpha〉0.70, ⍴A>0.70, ⍴C>0.70), average extracted variance (AVE〉0.50) and discriminant validity (HTMT<0.85) were confirmed. The structural model and hypothesis testing results showed that all hypotheses were supported in this study. Path coefficients and effect sizes suggested that the pharmacist's role played a significant part in patient understanding (H2, β=0.650, f2=0.730, p<0.001), which then influenced patient satisfaction (H1, β=0.474, f2=0.222, p<0.001). The in‐sample and out‐of‐sample predictive powers were moderate.

Conclusions

Patient satisfaction is becoming an integral component in healthcare provision and evaluation of healthcare quality. The results support using structural equation modelling to assess the link between the pharmacist's role and patient understanding and satisfaction when delivering cost‐effective pharmacist‐led interventions.
Racism and the mechanisms maintaining racial stratification in Black families
Authors: Williams Deadric T.
Published: May 2023

Structural racism is central for understanding Black families, but structural racism has not been central to quantitative research on Black families. Instead, research on Black families has disproportionately used deficit frameworks and race‐neutral explanations that misrepresent the reality of Black families. For the current commentary, I begin with a straightforward question: why are scholars still grappling with the role of White supremacy in family science? To address this question, I contend that family science needs a more nuanced theoretical perspective on Black families that adequately addresses the association between racism and race. I offer a novel conceptual model for the study of Black family inequality. I take racism and the social construction of race seriously by focusing on the making, the maintenance, and the manifestation of racial stratification. My hope is that family scholars will employ theoretical frameworks that center racism and highlight the social construction of race.
Associations between living alone, social interactions, and physical performance differ by sex: Results from the Baltimore Hip Studies
Authors: Câmara Saionara M. A. , Falvey Jason R. , Orwig Denise , Gruber‐Baldini Ann L. , Auais Mohammad , Feng Zhaoyong , Guralnik Jack , Magaziner Jay
Published: May 2023

Background

There is mixed evidence on whether living arrangements and social interactions are associated with poorer health outcomes after hip fracture repair. Distinct social profiles among male and female older adults may explain some of the differences. However, prior studies did not evaluate these differences by sex. This article aims to assess if the associations between living alone, social interaction, and physical performance differ by sex among hip fracture survivors.

Methods

This prospective cohort study is part of the Baltimore Hip Studies seventh cohort, with 168 male and 171 female hip fracture patients assessed at baseline (≤22 days after hospitalization) and at 2, 6, and 12 months post admission. Living arrangements and interaction with children or siblings and others in the past 2 weeks were collected at all visits. Physical performance was measured in the follow‐up visits with the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Linear mixed models tested associations of living alone and social interaction with SPPB over time adjusted for age, education, comorbidities, physical functioning pre‐fracture, cognitive function, self‐rated health, and time.

Results

For men only, living alone was associated with worse performance (0.7 points lower SPPB scores, p = 0.05). Higher social interaction was associated with 0.8 and 1.2 point higher SPPB scores for men and women, respectively (p < 0.05). Visiting with friends was significantly associated with better function among males, while visiting with children or siblings was associated with worse SPPB among females.

Conclusions

Living arrangements and types of social interaction are differentially associated with physical function for older men and women. Screening for social isolation/integration and including interventions that promote social interaction and participation should be considered in healthcare programs for hip fracture survivors.
Fusarium‐produced vitamin B6 promotes the evasion of soybean resistance by Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Wang Shuchen , Zhang Xiaoyi , Zhang Zhichao , Chen Yun , Tian Qing , Zeng Dandan , Xu Miao , Wang Yan , Dong Suomeng , Ma Zhonghua , Wang Yuanchao , Zheng Xiaobo , Ye Wenwu
Published: May 2023

Plants can be infected by multiple pathogens concurrently in natural systems. However, pathogen–pathogen interactions have rarely been studied. In addition to the oomycete Phytophthora sojae, fungi such as Fusarium spp. also cause soybean root rot. In a 3‐year field investigation, we discovered that P. sojae and Fusarium spp. frequently coexisted in diseased soybean roots. Out of 336 P. sojae–soybean–Fusarium combinations, more than 80% aggravated disease. Different Fusarium species all enhanced P. sojae infection when co‐inoculated on soybean. Treatment with Fusarium secreted non‐proteinaceous metabolites had an effect equal to the direct pathogen co‐inoculation. By screening a Fusarium graminearum mutant library, we identified Fusarium
promoting factor of Phytophthora sojae infection 1 (Fpp1), encoding a zinc alcohol dehydrogenase. Fpp1 is functionally conserved in Fusarium and contributes to metabolite‐mediated infection promotion, in which vitamin B6 (VB6) produced by Fusarium is key. Transcriptional and functional analyses revealed that Fpp1 regulates two VB6 metabolism genes, and VB6 suppresses expression of soybean disease resistance‐related genes. These results reveal that co‐infection with Fusarium promotes loss of P. sojae resistance in soybean, information that will inform the sustainable use of disease‐resistant crop varieties and provide new strategies to control soybean root rot.
Prevention of spinal hypotension during cesarean section: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta‐analysis based on ephedrine, phenylephrine, and norepinephrine
Authors: Xue Xing , Lv Xinghua , Ma Xiaoli , Zhou Yuxin , Yu Na , Yang Zhihua
Published: May 2023

Aim

The aim of this study is to perform a Bayesian network meta‐analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of prophylactic bolus of different doses of ephedrine, phenylephrine, and norepinephrine for the prevention of spinal hypotension during cesarean section.

Methods

The Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library were searched until to May 20, 2022. The indicators included incidence of hypotension, reactive hypertension, bradycardia, nausea and vomiting, umbilical artery pH, and Apgar scores.

Results

About 3125 related records were obtained and 17 RCTs met our eligibility criteria. Based on the results, prophylactic bolus injection of 21–30 mg ephedrine (82%) was the best efficacious option for preventing hypotension, followed by 13–16 μg norepinephrine and 81–120 mg phenylephrine; 121–150 μg phenylephrine had the highest probability (62%) caused reactive hypertension, followed by 11–30 mg ephedrine; phenylephrine was most likely to cause bradycardia in a dose‐dependent manner; 81–120 μg phenylephrine had the highest probability (37%) which associated with IONV; 6–12 μg norepinephrine (31%) had the lowest influence on IONV and had highest probability (34%) associated with improving umbilical arterial pH; 13–16 μg norepinephrine had highest probability (67% at 1 min, 49% at 5 min) which associated with improving Apgar scores.

Conclusions

Based on this study, 5–10 mg ephedrine and 13–16 μg norepinephrine prophylactic bolus injection may be the optimum dosage of three drugs prevent spinal‐induced hypotension, which has the least impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Marital quality improves self‐ and partner‐reported psychopathy among Chinese couples: A longitudinal study
Authors: He Qiong , Tong Wei , Yu Yue , Zhang Jianxin
Published: May 2023

Background

Psychopathy is closely related to many negative interpersonal outcomes in daily life, including violence. Therefore, psychopathy intervention in subclinical individuals has significant application value.

Objective

Guided by the personality–relationship transaction model and social investment theory, this study examined how marital quality affects self‐ and partner‐rated psychopathy. We also used the actor–partner interdependence mediation model to explore the mediating effect of communication.

Methods

We examined self‐reports and partner reports of psychopathy, marital quality, and communication among 260 married Chinese couples.

Results

The results indicated that marital quality directly influenced couples' self‐rated psychopathy, with both actor and partner effects on husbands' psychopathy and actor effects on wives' psychopathy. Moreover, verbal communication had mediating effects at time 2 between marital quality at time 1 and partner‐reported psychopathy at time 3. Meanwhile, the mediating effect of nonverbal communication was not significant.

Conclusion

Our investigation of relationship effects on psychopathy revealed that the underlying mechanisms differed between self‐ and partner‐rated psychopathy. The findings can highlight directions for exploring potential intervention strategies for subclinical psychopathy.
Calcium–aluminum‐rich inclusions in non‐carbonaceous chondrites: Abundances, sizes, and mineralogy
Authors: Dunham E. T. , Sheikh A. , Opara D. , Matsuda N. , Liu M.‐C. , McKeegan K. D.
Published: May 2023

As the Sun was forming, calcium–aluminum‐rich inclusions (CAIs) were the first rocks to have condensed in the hottest regions of the solar nebula disk. Carbonaceous chondrites (CCs) contain abundant CAIs but are thought to have accreted in the outer Solar System, requiring that CAIs must have been transported outward. Curiously, CAIs are rare in ordinary, enstatite, rumuruti, and kakangari chondrites, non‐carbonaceous chondrites (NCs), that likely formed in the inner Solar System. Thus, CAI abundances and characteristics can provide constraints on the early dynamical evolution of the disk. In this work, we address whether the hypothesis of an early‐formed proto‐Jupiter “opening a gap” in the disk can explain the dichotomy in the relative abundance of CAIs in CC and NC chondrites. We searched 76 NC meteorite sections to find 232 CAIs which have an average apparent diameter of 46 μm and comprise 0.01 area%, about half the size of and ~200 times less abundant than CC CAIs on average. Unlike CC CAIs, only 4% of the NC CAIs contain melilite and most contain alteration features suggesting that NC CAIs underwent pervasive fluid‐assisted thermal metamorphism on asteroidal parent bodies. However, based on NC CAI populations correlating with meteorite metamorphic grade, we argue that disk dynamics is likely the primary reason behind the existence of small (<100 μm) and rare NC CAIs. Our data support astrophysical models which suggest that, after outward transport of CAIs, formation of a gap in the disk trapped CAIs in the outer Solar System.
Corneal oedema during reverse piggyback scleral lens wear
Authors: Bliss Vyasa H. , Branjerdporn Nathan , Ooi Peng Jia , Teo Li Mei , Tu Jervis , Yeh Justin , Collins Michael J. , Vincent Stephen J.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

One clinical approach to address poor front surface wettability during scleral lens wear is the use of a “reverse piggyback” system (a soft contact lens applied to the anterior surface of a scleral lens). The aim of this study was to compare the magnitude of corneal oedema induced following short‐term reverse piggyback scleral lens wear and standard scleral lens wear.

Methods

Ten young (mean age 22 ± 6 years) healthy participants with normal corneas were recruited. On separate days, central corneal thickness and fluid reservoir thickness were measured using optical coherence tomography before and after 90 min of standard scleral lens wear (Kerectasia Alignment Tangent Torus diagnostic lenses, hexafocon A, Dk 100 × 10−11 (cm2/s)(ml O2/ml × mmHg), Capricornia Contact Lenses, capcl.com.au) and reverse piggyback scleral lens wear (the same scleral lens with a Dailies Total 1®, delefilcon A, Dk 140 × 10−11 (cm2/s)(ml O2/ml × mmHg), Alcon, alcon.com, applied to the anterior scleral lens surface).

Results

After correcting for small variations in the initial central fluid reservoir thickness, central corneal oedema was similar between the reverse piggyback (2.32 ± 1.15%) and standard scleral lens conditions (2.02 ± 0.76%; p = 0.45).

Conclusions

Following 90 min of lens wear, the highly oxygen‐permeable reverse piggyback system did not induce a clinically or statistically greater magnitude of central corneal oedema compared with standard scleral lens wear in young adults with healthy corneas. This approach may be suitable to address poor front surface scleral lens wettability or to correct residual refractive error during diagnostic scleral lens fitting.
Psychological and physiological correlates of stimulus discrimination in adults
Authors: Fitzgerald Jacklynn M. , Webb E. Kate , Sangha Susan
Published: May 2023

The discrimination of cues in the environment that signal danger (“fear cue”) is important for survival but depends critically on the discernment of such cues from ones that pose no threat (“safety cues”). In rodents, we previously demonstrated the underlying neurobiological mechanisms that support fear versus safety discrimination and documented that these mechanisms extend to the discrimination of reward as well. While learning about reward is equally important for survival, it remains an under‐studied area of research, particularly in human studies of conditional discrimination. In the present study, we translated our rodent task of fear reward and neutral discrimination (fear, reward, and neutral discrimination [FRND]) for use in humans. Undergraduate students (N = 53) completed the FRND while electrodermal activity was recorded. Skin conductance response (SCR) amplitude, a marker of arousal response, was derived for fear, reward, and neutral cues that signaled no outcome; critical trials assessed conditional discrimination using combined fear + neutral and reward + neutral cues. Participants provided likeability ratings for each cue type. Results demonstrated that participants rated reward cues the best, fear cues the worst, and neutral cues in between, while SCR amplitude was largest for fear and reward cues and lowest for neutral cues. SCR amplitudes were reduced for fear + neutral (compared to fear) and reward + neutral cues (compared to reward). Results demonstrate that the FRND is a useful paradigm for the assessment of psychological and physiological discrimination of fear and reward. Implications and directions for future work are discussed.
Can a ground‐based vehicle hear the shape of a room?
Authors: Boutin Mireille , Kemper Gregor
Published: May 2023

Assume that a ground‐based vehicle moves in a room with walls or other planar surfaces. Can the vehicle reconstruct the positions of the walls from the echoes of a single sound event? We assume that the vehicle carries some microphones and that a loudspeaker is either also mounted on the vehicle or placed at a fixed location in the room. We prove that the reconstruction is almost always possible if (1) no echoes are received from floors, ceilings, or sloping walls and the vehicle carries at least three noncollinear microphones, or if (2) walls of any inclination may occur, the loudspeaker is fixed in the room and there are four noncoplanar microphones. The difficulty lies in the echo‐matching problem: How to determine which echoes come from the same wall. We solve this by using a Cayley–Menger determinant. Our proofs use methods from computational commutative algebra.
Rhemata
Authors: Bellucci Francesco
Published: May 2023

The article offers an analysis of Peirce's notion of “rhema.” It examines and explains Peirce's definition of the rhema; it identifies and solves two problems that are direct consequences of the definition. The first problem is that proper names, while classified as rhemata, do not satisfy Peirce's definition of the rhema. The second problem is that Peirce also calls “rhemata” the results of propositional analysis that however do not satisfy his own definition of the rhema. Peirce himself solves the first problem by generalizing the notion of rhema into that of “seme.” I argue that we can solve the second problem if, following M. Dummett, we distinguish propositional analysis from propositional decomposition.