bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial agglomeration of information services industry and its evolution: Evidence from the Pearl River Delta, China
Authors: Zhang Ling
Published: November 2023

The information services (IS) industry, which facilitates industrial transformation and upgrading, has emerged as a key driving force behind China's economic growth in recent years. More evidence can be accumulated from the Pearl River Delta (PRD), one of the largest transforming economies and IS gathering region in China. Firstly, this paper investigates the spatial patterns and dynamics of IS agglomeration in the PRD from 2003 to 2018, using the spatial autocorrelation analysis and Kernel density analysis. Secondly, a dynamic panel model with a system generalized method of moments (SYS‐GMM) estimation is employed to identify the factors significantly influencing the industry agglomeration economy. Results show that: (1) Large firms continue to gather in the core area of major cities, while smaller firms show a more balanced distribution from the core to periphery regions. The spatial proximity of firms proves that micro firms benefit less from industrial agglomeration compared to larger ones. (2) The effects of agglomeration externalities on economic growth remains positive, with labor force and commuting costs playing a vital role in the expansion of the IS industry. By integrating geo‐spatial information and empirical evidence, this study contributes to China's understanding and experience as a late‐developing country in the digital economy era. Finally, policies supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), improving the effectiveness of government subsidies, and strengthening industry‐university research cooperation are proposed.
Why do errors arise in artificial intelligence diagnostic tools in histopathology and how can we minimize them?
Authors: Evans Harriet , Snead David
Published: November 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI)‐based diagnostic tools can offer numerous benefits to the field of histopathology, including improved diagnostic accuracy, efficiency and productivity. As a result, such tools are likely to have an increasing role in routine practice. However, all AI tools are prone to errors, and these AI‐associated errors have been identified as a major risk in the introduction of AI into healthcare. The errors made by AI tools are different, in terms of both cause and nature, to the errors made by human pathologists. As highlighted by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, it is imperative that practising pathologists understand the potential limitations of AI tools, including the errors made. Pathologists are in a unique position to be gatekeepers of AI tool use, maximizing patient benefit while minimizing harm. Furthermore, their pathological knowledge is essential to understanding when, and why, errors have occurred and so to developing safer future algorithms. This paper summarises the literature on errors made by AI diagnostic tools in histopathology. These include erroneous errors, data concerns (data bias, hidden stratification, data imbalances, distributional shift, and lack of generalisability), reinforcement of outdated practices, unsafe failure mode, automation bias, and insensitivity to impact. Methods to reduce errors in both tool design and clinical use are discussed, and the practical roles for pathologists in error minimisation are highlighted. This aims to inform and empower pathologists to move safely through this seismic change in practice and help ensure that novel AI tools are adopted safely.
Encapsulation of thymol and limonene in metal–organic frameworks for inhibition of Colletotrichum musae growth
Authors: Zuniega Johnrell , Grabulos Joël , Lebrun Marc , Aumond Thibaud , Daniel Cécile , Brat Pierre , Farrusseng David
Published: November 2023

Monoterpenes are the most prevalent compounds found in essential oils. They exhibit inhibitory actions against phytopathogenic postharvest fungi. Direct application limits their effectiveness due to their instability, high volatility, hydrophobicity and susceptibility to degradation. Encapsulation systems using metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been developed to maximise their use. In this study, four protocols were shown to encapsulate thymol and limonene in porous solids, such as ZIF‐8, UiO‐66‐(COOH)2 and zeolite 13X. Vapourisation and diffusion at 60 °C for 16 h was found to be the most efficient encapsulation process. A larger amount of thymol than limonene was loaded in the porous solids. Thymol released from MOFs slowed down the growth of Colletotrichum musae by up to 6 days at 25 °C. There was a sustained release of thymol even beyond the period of maximum fungal growth. This proof‐of‐concept study revealed the potential utility of MOFs as carriers of thymol against postharvest fungi.
Exploring antioxidant activities and inhibitory effects against α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase of Elaeocarpus braceanus fruits: insights into mechanisms by molecular docking and molecular dynamics
Authors: Li Hong , Zhang Yuanyue , Liu Zhijia , Guo Chaofan , Battino Maurizio , Cai Shengbao , Yi Junjie
Published: November 2023

The present work investigated the antioxidant activity and inhibitory effects towards α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase of phenolic compounds in Elaeocarpus braceanus fruits and clarified their possible mechanisms based on molecular docking and dynamic analysis. A total of 12 phenolic compounds were identified and quantified in the extracts of E. braceanus fruits using UHPLC‐ESI‐HRMS/MS. The TPC and TFC were 229.18 ± 5.76 mg GAE/g and 144.85 ± 1.17 mg RE/g, respectively. In vitro analyses, E. braceanus fruits extracts exhibited good antioxidant activities and demonstrated strong inhibitory effects towards α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics results showed that quercetin and myricetin can stably form hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces with the active amino acid residues of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase, and thereby inhibiting their enzymatic activities. The findings might provide a good potential natural resource for improving oxidative stress damage and controlling blood glucose in diabetes.
Effect of prothrombin Belgrade mutation, causing antithrombin resistance, on fibrin clot properties
Authors: Dunjic Manevski Sofija , Cumbo Marija , Pruner Iva , Gvozdenov Maja , Tomic Branko , Taxiarchis Apostolos , Antovic Jovan , Djordjevic Valentina
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Prothrombin Belgrade mutation is the result of the c.1787G>A substitution in the prothrombin gene. It is located in the antithrombin and sodium binding site and leads to impaired inactivation of thrombin by antithrombin, resulting in antithrombin resistance and thrombotic disorders. However, it negatively affects sodium binding and may have hypocoagulant effects. Considering that prothrombin Belgrade mutation mechanism is still not fully elucidated and that sodium binding is important for thrombin affinity towards fibrinogen, our aim was to determine whether this mutation affects fibrin clot formation and lysis.

Methods

Using HEK293T cell line, recombinant wild type and mutated prothrombin were generated by transient transfection. Samples that correspond to plasma of a non‐carrier, heterozygous and homozygous carriers were reconstituted using prothrombin deficient plasma and recombinant proteins. Reconstituted samples were used in OHP assay (Overall Hemostasis Potential) to determine kinetic profiles of coagulation and fibrinolysis. Clot turbidity assay was performed to observe kinetics of clot formation and lysis more closely. Fibrin clots formed in reconstituted plasma samples were analyzed by confocal microscopy to determine density of fibrin network. Fibrin clots were additionally observed using electron microscopy to determine thickness of individual fibrin fibers.

Results

No significant difference found in OHP, OCP, OFP, and fibrin network density between wild type, heterozygous, and homozygous carrier reconstituted plasma samples. There were significant differences between samples for slope and slope time parameters in kinetic profiles and fibrin fiber thickness.

Conclusions

Results indicate that prothrombin Belgrade mutation has no significant impact on fibrinolysis, however it may affect kinetics of clot formation and its architecture.
Tracing the Hand of God: Divine Providence, Dutch Colonial Policy, and Herman Bavinck
Authors: Pass Bruce R.
Published: November 2023

In this essay, I trace the main contours of Herman Bavinck's account of divine providence, outlining its unique features. I then highlight ways that Bavinck's parliamentary speeches which touch on the subject of colonial policy in the Dutch East Indies expose a hidden risk in his formulation of this doctrine. In conversation with recent reflections on this doctrine, I then argue that this problem is not insurmountable. By way of conclusion, I suggest ways that it might be overcome so that the more promising features of Bavinck's doctrine of providence might be retrieved.
TOWARD A NEW VIEWPOINT FOR THE ARTIST
Authors: LUKE JOY TURNER
Published: November 2023

Communication between the artist and the scientific and technological community has been so tenuous during the past 50 years that the artist is not using knowledge and techniques which originate in that world. Conversely, the scientists and technicians have little insight into the problems of artists, making it difficult for the artist to obtain information he knows he needs. Some of the concepts and techniques valuable to artists are outlined in this paper with a special emphasis on those relating to color.

Artists' pigments and vehicles are rapidly changing. Channels of information are needed to keep him current and knowledgable. The artist must use both additive and subtractive color simultaneously, since the visual world he utilizes in creating a picture consists largely of additive situations, but the mixture of his paints is a subtractive process. Metamerism is a problem for the artist as it is in color matching for industry. Color systems, although long known, have never been adequately utilized. The Munsell system is the most practical one at the present time for several reasons. Expanding the Munsell notation to include a relative intensity dimension for pigments would add to its usefulness. A color slide rule and a table of approximate chroma loss between pairs of additive colors are proposed to aid the artist in creating depth effects, illumination effects and transparency effects. The artist should be practical in obtaining and using the facts of paint technology, but flexible in the application of systematic color in order to keep his options open. The use of color systems and techniques, while of value to every artist, can be used at many levels for differing purposes. Such concepts must be tailored to the individual artist's needs.
Legacy in paediatrics: A concept analysis
Authors: Keller Briana P. , Akard Terrah F. , Boles Jessika C.
Published: November 2023

Aim

To provide an analysis of legacy and legacy‐oriented interventions in paediatric healthcare.

Design

Walker and Avant's method of concept analysis.

Methods

Using Walker and Avant's method, three defining attributes of the concept were determined, followed by antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of legacy.

Results

In paediatrics, legacy is co‐authored in relationships, has the capability to outlive the person or event it represents, and elicits the essence of a person or experience. Receiving legacy‐oriented interventions are not a prerequisite for having a legacy, nor is death.

Conclusion

Engaging in purposeful, individualized legacy‐oriented interventions can improve coping in paediatric patients, families, and providers. By understanding the concept of legacy, providers are better equipped to provide care honouring the unique personhood, relationships, and strengths of children and families in even the most dire circumstances.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Understanding the scope and purpose of legacy in paediatrics assists providers in improving patient‐ and family‐centred outcomes by designing interventions that facilitate long‐term coping in patients facing a loss of or significant change in health, normalcy, or life.

Impact

Legacy‐oriented interventions are provided at most children's hospitals in the United States, yet no widespread consensus on foundation or scope has been determined. This concept analysis provides evidence‐based guidelines for policy and practice in creating legacy for and with children, providing opportunities to improve quality of care for young patients and their families around the world.

Reporting Method

N/A.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Workplace ostracism in healthcare: Association with job satisfaction, stress, and perceived health
Authors: Manninen Sirpa M. , Koponen Samuli , Sinervo Timo , Laulainen Sanna
Published: November 2023

Aims

To examine (1) the association between healthcare workers' workplace ostracism and job satisfaction, stress and perceived health, and (2) whether this relationship is mediated by loneliness and self‐esteem.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Healthcare (N = 569) managers and employees (nurses, practical nurses, doctors and social workers) in Finland responded to a semi‐structured survey in January 2021 and evaluated their experiences of workplace ostracism, job satisfaction, stress, perceived health, loneliness and self‐esteem during the last year. To examine the association of these variables, linear regression and mediator model tests were performed.

Results

Workplace ostracism had a clear direct association with job satisfaction, stress and perceived health. Loneliness fully mediated the relationship between workplace ostracism, stress and perceived health, and partly mediated the association between workplace ostracism and job satisfaction. Self‐esteem partly mediated the association between workplace ostracism, stress, job satisfaction and perceived health.

Conclusion

The experience of workplace ostracism in organizations is a significant factor in job satisfaction, stress and perceived health. Healthcare organizations could strengthen job satisfaction and increase workers' well‐being by strengthening social relationships in the organization and, via that, reducing turnover intention.

Implications for the profession and patient care

This study gives understanding and information to the healthcare profession on how workplace ostracism affects work well‐being and workplace relationships. Workplace ostracism decreases interaction, which can also endanger patient care if information is not openly exchanged.

Impact

This study indicated that workplace ostracism weakened job satisfaction more than loneliness. More commonality and consideration for others at work are needed because these factors may help increase work well‐being and decrease exits from working life. Further research is needed on why workplace ostracism occurs in healthcare workplaces.

Reporting Method

STROBE.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Mortality trends, disparities, and social vulnerability in cardiac arrest mortality in the young: A cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Ibrahim Ramzi , Shahid Mahek , Srivathsan Komandoor , Sorajja Dan , Deshmukh Abhishek , Lee Justin Z.
Published: November 2023

Background

Cardiac arrest (CA) is a leading cause of death in the United States (US). Social determinants of health may impact CA outcomes. We aimed to assess mortality trends, disparities, and the influence of the social vulnerability index (SVI) on CA outcomes in the young.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of age‐adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) related to CA in the United States from the Years 1999 to 2020 in individuals aged 35 years and younger. Data were obtained from death certificates and analyzed using log‐linear regression models. We examined disparities in mortality rates based on demographic variables. We also explored the impact of the SVI on CA mortality.

Results

A total of 4792 CA deaths in the young were identified. Overall AAMR decreased from 0.20 in 1999 to 0.14 in 2020 with an average annual percentage change of −1.3% (p = .001). Black (AAMR: 0.30) and male populations (AAMR: 0.14) had higher AAMR compared with White (AAMR: 0.11) and female (AAMR: 0.11) populations, respectively. Nonmetropolitan (AAMR: 0.29) and Southern (AAMR: 0.26) regions were also impacted by higher AAMR compared with metropolitan (AAMR: 0.11) and other US census regions, respectively. A higher SVI was associated with greater mortality risks related to CA (risk ratio: 1.82 [95% CI, 1.77–1.87]).

Conclusions

Our analysis of CA in the young revealed disparities based on demographics, with a decline in AAMR from 1999 to 2020. There is a correlation between a higher SVI and increased CA mortality risk, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions to address these disparities effectively.
Evaluation of the accuracy of direct intraoral scanner impressions for digital post and core in various post lengths: An in‐vitro study
Authors: Almalki A. , Conejo J. , Kutkut N. , Blatz M. , Hai Q. , Anadioti E.
Published: November 2023

Statement of Problem

Despite the growing utilization of direct intraoral scanners (IOSs) in dentistry, there is a scarcity of research investigating their accuracy, specifically in post and core. Few studies have conducted comprehensive three‐dimensional assessments and comparisons of IOSs with the conventional impression technique, particularly in different post space lengths.

Purpose

The purpose of this in vitro study was to digitally assess the accuracy of direct intraoral scanner (IOS) impressions for different post space lengths, specifically 6, 8, and 10 mm.

Materials and Methods

A total of 45 typodont teeth (maxillary central incisors) were selected for this study. The teeth underwent endodontic treatment and were divided into three subgroups, each with 15 teeth, based on the desired post space lengths: 6, 8, and 10 mm. Intraoral scans of all specimens were acquired directly using the CEREC Primescan intraoral scanners by two trained examiners. The obtained scan data were compared with conventional impressions obtained using light and heavy bodies of polyvinyl siloxane (PVS). As a control, the conventional impressions were subsequently scanned using an inEos X5a lab scanner. The accuracy of the digital scans was evaluated in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds using the Geomagic Control X software. Statistical analysis was performed using Bonferroni Post‐hoc and One‐way ANOVA tests to analyze the data.

Results

The overall mean root mean square (RMS) deviations for the different post lengths across the three thirds groups were 58, 81, and 101 μm for the 6, 8, and 10 mm subgroups, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in the accuracy of the coronal and middle thirds among all subgroups (p > 0.5). However, in the apical third, the 10 mm subgroup exhibited a significantly lower accuracy (163 μm) compared to the 6 mm (96 μm) and 8 mm (131 μm) subgroups (p < 0.05). These results suggest that while the accuracy of intraoral scans using direct IOS impressions was consistent in the coronal and middle thirds regardless of the post length, there was a noticeable decrease in accuracy in the apical third, particularly with longer post lengths.

Conclusion

Considering the limitations of this in vitro study, chairside direct IOS impressions offer a viable and clinically acceptable alternative to the conventional impression technique for post space lengths of 6 and 8 mm. However, as the post space length preparation increases, the accuracy of IOS decreases.

Clinical Significance

The Chairside direct IOS enables expedited and efficient digital impression capture within the root canal, ensuring acceptable accuracy for intracanal post length preparation of up to 8 mm.
Childhood caries is associated with poor health and a faster pace of aging by midlife
Authors: Ruiz Begoña , Broadbent Jonathan M. , Thomson W. Murray , Ramrakha Sandhya , Moffitt Terrie E. , Caspi Avshalom , Poulton Richie
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Childhood caries is associated with poorer self‐rated general health in adulthood, but it remains unclear whether that holds for physical health and aging. The aim of this study was to identify whether age‐5 caries is associated with (a) biomarkers for poor physical health, and (b) the pace of aging (PoA) by age 45 years.

Methods

Participants are members of the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study birth cohort. At age 45, 94.1% (n = 938) of those still alive took part. Data on age‐5 caries experience and age‐45 health biomarkers were collected. The PoA captures age‐related decline across the cardiovascular, metabolic, renal, immune, dental and pulmonary systems from age 26 to 45 years. We used (a) generalized estimating equations to examine associations between age‐5 caries and poor physical health by age 45 years, and (b) ordinary least squares regression to examine whether age‐5 caries was associated with the PoA. Analyses adjusted for sex, perinatal health, childhood SES and childhood IQ.

Results

High caries experience at age‐5 was associated with higher risk for some metabolic abnormalities, including BMI ≥30, high waist circumference, and high serum leptin. Those with high caries experience at age‐5 were aging at a faster rate by age 45 years than those who had been caries‐free.

Conclusions

Oral health is essential for wellbeing. Poor oral health can be an early signal of a trajectory towards poor health in adulthood. Management for both conditions should be better‐integrated; and integrated population‐level prevention strategies should be foundational to any health system.
A 24% prevalence of excessive fragmentary myoclonus in 500 consecutive sleep laboratory patients
Authors: Bergmann Melanie , Stefani Ambra , Ibrahim Abubaker , Anselmi Victoria , Brandauer Elisabeth , Högl Birgit , Cesari Matteo
Published: November 2023

Excessive fragmentary myoclonus (EFM) is a frequent finding during routine video‐polysomnography (VPSG). We aimed to automatically measure the prevalence of EFM according to current American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) criteria, and the fragmentary myoclonus index (FMI) in sleep stage N1, N2, N3, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and wake in a large patient population. A total of 500 VPSG recordings of patients admitted to the Sleep Laboratory, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Austria, between May 1, 2022 and February 28, 2023, were included. EFM according to AASM criteria and FMI were computed by applying a previously validated algorithm. EFM was automatically detected in 121 of the 500 Sleep Laboratory patients (24.2%, 95% confidence interval 20.1%–28.9%). FMI increased with age, male gender, apnea–hypopnea‐index (AHI), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and periodic leg movements of sleep (PLMS) index. FMI was highest in REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD), followed by neurodegenerative and internal medicine diseases, but the increase in the FMI was not explained by the disease itself but rather by the age and sex of the patients. Almost a quarter of our patient population had EFM. However, the prevalence of EFM does not allow the drawing of any conclusions about the pathophysiology of EFM or even the determination of a pathological FMI cut‐off value. Associations of the FMI with age, sex, AHI, ODI and PLMS are in line with previous studies, but the FMI needs to be evaluated in different disease entities to learn more about its pathophysiology.
Concurrent hepatopathy in dogs with gallbladder mucocele: Prevalence, predictors, and impact on long‐term outcome
Authors: Jablonski Sara A. , Chen Yue Xiang (Polly) , Williams Jarod E. , Kendziorski Jessica A. , Smedley Rebecca C.
Published: November 2023

Background

Information is limited regarding the prevalence and importance of hepatic histologic abnormalities in dogs with gallbladder mucocele (GBM).

Objectives

To (a) report prevalence of hepatic histologic abnormalities in dogs with GBM (b) evaluate for association between hepatic abnormalities and outcome in dogs with GBM (c) evaluate whether neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) differs in dogs with GBM with and without specific hepatic lesions.

Animals

Fifty‐two dogs with grossly and histologically confirmed GBM.

Methods

Multicenter, retrospective study of dogs with GBM undergoing cholecystectomy with concurrent liver biopsy. Archived histological sections of gallbladder and liver evaluated by investigators blinded to data. Proportions of dogs with each histologic abnormality alive vs deceased at 1, 3, and 12 months post‐cholecystectomy compared. Mann‐Whitney U performed to determine if NLR differed in dogs with or without selected lesions.

Results

51/52 (98%, 95% CI [89%, 99%]) dogs with GBM had at least 1 hepatic histologic abnormality. Hepatic fibrosis (37/51; 73%, 95% CI [59%, 83%]), biliary hyperplasia (29/52; 56%, 95% CI [42%, 68%]), and portal inflammation (25/52; 48%, 95% CI [35%, 61%]) were most common. The proportion of dogs alive vs dead differed based on the fibrosis score at 1, 3, and 12 (P ≤ .04) months post‐cholecystectomy. Dogs with hepatic necrosis (P = .006) and cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis (P = .02) had higher NLRs compared to dogs without these lesions.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Histologic abnormalities of the liver are common in dogs with GBM. A higher portal fibrosis score might be associated with shortened long‐term survival after cholecystectomy for dogs with GBM. An increase in NLR might predict hepatic necrosis and cholangitis/cholangiohepatitis in dogs with GBM.
Discordance between ABC blood phenotype and genotype in a domestic short‐haired cat
Authors: Ginoudis Argyrios , Canard Bertrand , Kehl Alexandra , Giger Urs , Koutinas Christos , Christoforaki Stella , Smyroglou Erasmia , Polizopoulou Zoe , Mylonakis Mathios E.
Published: November 2023

An adult domestic short‐haired feline leukemia virus‐infected cat was referred for kidney failure and worsening anemia requiring transfusions. ABC blood typing was performed with an immunochromatographic strip assay at different occasions. Gel column systems were used for the major and minor crossmatching tests, and anti‐A and anti‐B titers were determined. No discrete A or B bands appeared on the immunochromatographic strips at any time point for the recipient cat. The recipient's plasma agglutinated RBCs from tested type A and B cats. The recipient's RBCs appeared compatible with plasma from 1 type A and 2 B donors, and incompatible with plasma from another type A cat. Genotyping of recipient blood revealed a single homozygous c.179G>T CMAH variant predicting a blood type B. These studies suggest an unusual weak type B or missing all ABC antigens. The latter resembles the exceedingly rare Bombay phenotype in the human ABO blood group system.
ACVIM Consensus Statement on the management of status epilepticus and cluster seizures in dogs and cats
Authors: Charalambous Marios , Muñana Karen , Patterson Edward E. , Platt Simon R. , Volk Holger A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Seizure emergencies (ie, status epilepticus [SE] and cluster seizures [CS]), are common challenging disorders with complex pathophysiology, rapidly progressive drug‐resistant and self‐sustaining character, and high morbidity and mortality. Current treatment approaches are characterized by considerable variations, but official guidelines are lacking.

Objectives

To establish evidence‐based guidelines and an agreement among board‐certified specialists for the appropriate management of SE and CS in dogs and cats.

Animals

None.

Materials and Methods

A panel of 5 specialists was formed to assess and summarize evidence in the peer‐reviewed literature with the aim to establish consensus clinical recommendations. Evidence from veterinary pharmacokinetic studies, basic research, and human medicine also was used to support the panel's recommendations, especially for the interventions where veterinary clinical evidence was lacking.

Results

The majority of the evidence was on the first‐line management (ie, benzodiazepines and their various administration routes) in both species. Overall, there was less evidence available on the management of emergency seizure disorders in cats in contrast to dogs. Most recommendations made by the panel were supported by a combination of a moderate level of veterinary clinical evidence and pharmacokinetic data as well as studies in humans and basic research studies.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Successful management of seizure emergencies should include an early, rapid, and stage‐based treatment approach consisting of interventions with moderate to preferably high ACVIM recommendations; management of complications and underlying causes related to seizure emergencies should accompany antiseizure medications.
The dyadic coping experience of ICU transfer patients and their spouses: A qualitative study
Authors: Gu Jiayi , Wang He , Pei Jiaqin , Meng Jingyu , Song Yan
Published: November 2023

Background

The patient's spouse, in their role as the primary caregiver, assumes responsibility for the patient's care during the recovery process and provides the most robust social support. Previous research has primarily focused on the coping experiences and thoughts of individual intensive care unit (ICU) patients or caregivers, with limited attention afforded to the relationship between patients and their spouses.

Aims

This study aims to explore the dyadic coping experiences of ICU transfer patients and their spouses, with the goal of providing evidence to support the subsequent development of an individualized intervention program.

Study Design

A qualitative study using a phenomenological research approach was undertaken. Purposive sampling was employed to select participants for face‐to‐face semi‐structured in‐depth interviews. The interviews took place at a tertiary general hospital in Nanjing from January 2023 to February 2023.Twelve ICU transfer patients and their twelve spouses were interviewed. The data were then summarized, and themes were derived using the Colaizzi 7‐step analysis method.

Findings

A total of four themes and eleven sub‐themes emerged from the analysis. The identified themes include positive coping (actively seeking solutions, and facing challenges together), negative coping (avoiding problems, displaying overprotective behaviour, and bearing the burden alone), difficulties and challenges (a lack of information, high physical and psychological stress, and significant financial burden), and needs and suggestions (strengthening transition care, fostering increased intimacy, and reducing negative emotions).

Conclusion

Both patients and spouses experience physical and psychological stress during the transfer from the ICU to the ward. Therefore, any intervention developed for caregivers should be designed in a dyadic manner. Increasing dyadic coping skills may represent an important area for future research and intervention.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This study provides valuable evidence to inform the formulation of a comprehensive dual disease management plan for ICU transfer patients and their spouses.
Finding a good balance: two distinct chromatin factors fine‐tune stress response in Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Archacki Rafal
Published: November 2023

This article is a Commentary on Perrella et al. (2023), 241: 166–179.
Synthetically induced Arabidopsis thaliana autotetraploids provide insights into the analysis of meiotic mutants with altered crossover frequency
Authors: Parra‐Nunez Pablo , Fernández‐Jiménez Nadia , Pachon‐Penalba Miguel , Sanchez‐Moran Eugenio , Pradillo Mónica , Santos Juan Luis
Published: November 2023

Mutations affecting crossover (CO) frequency and distribution lead to the presence of univalents during meiosis, giving rise to aneuploid gametes and sterility. These mutations may have a different effect after chromosome doubling. The combination of altered ploidy and mutations could be potentially useful to gain new insights into the mechanisms and regulation of meiotic recombination; however, studies using autopolyploid meiotic mutants are scarce.

Here, we have analyzed the cytogenetic consequences in colchicine‐induced autotetraploids (colchiploids) from different Arabidopsis mutants with an altered CO frequency.

We have found that there are three types of mutants: mutants in which chiasma frequency is doubled after chromosome duplication (zip4, mus81), as in the control; mutants in which polyploidy leads to a higher‐than‐expected increase in chiasma frequency (asy1, mer3, hei10, and mlh3); and mutants in which the rise in chiasma frequency produced by the presence of two extrachromosomal sets is less than doubled (msh5, fancm). In addition, the proportion of class I/class II COs varies after chromosome duplication in the control.

The results obtained reveal the potential of colchiploid meiotic mutants for better understanding of the function of key proteins during plant meiosis. This is especially relevant considering that most crops are polyploids.
Oral immunotherapy as a curative treatment for food‐allergic preschool children: Current evidence and potential underlying mechanisms
Authors: Barten Lieke J. C. , Zuurveld Marit , Faber Joyce , Garssen Johan , Klok Ted
Published: November 2023

The worldwide rising prevalence of food allergy is a major public health concern. Standard care consists of allergen avoidance and rescue medication upon accidental exposure. Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is increasingly being studied as a treatment option. Although desensitization (an increased reaction threshold) is often achieved during OIT, sustained unresponsiveness (SU; clinical nonreactivity after finishing OIT) is not achieved in most patients. A few studies have investigated the effectiveness of OIT in children younger than 4 years of age (early = e‐OIT) and have shown a much more favorable outcome in terms of SU development. Together with food allergy prevention studies, which have demonstrated high efficacy of early oral allergen exposure, the outcomes of e‐OIT studies indicate an early‐life window of opportunity to achieve SU, allowing unrestricted dietary intake. However, the underlying mechanism of the high effectiveness of e‐OIT is not understood yet. Both cohort and OIT studies indicate early‐life immune plasticity. An immature food‐allergic response in the first years of life seems to be a major driver of this immune plasticity, along with a higher tolerogenic immunological state. Allergy maturation can likely be disrupted effectively by early intervention, preventing the development of persistent food allergy. Upcoming studies will provide important additional data on the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of e‐OIT. Combined with immune mechanistic studies, this should inform the implementation of e‐OIT.
Identification of ascorbate‐ and salicylate‐responsive miRNAs and verification of the spectral control of miR395 in Arabidopsis
Authors: Székely András , Gulyás Zsolt , Balogh Eszter , Payet Rocky , Dalmay Tamás , Kocsy Gábor , Kalapos Balázs
Published: November 2023

We assumed that miRNAs might regulate the physiological and biochemical processes in plants through their effects on the redox system and phytohormones. To check this hypothesis, the transcriptome profile of wild‐type Arabidopsis and lines with decreased ascorbate (Asc), glutathione (GSH), or salicylate (Sal) levels were compared. GSH deficiency did not influence the miRNA expression, whereas lower levels of Asc and Sal reduced the accumulation of 9 and 44 miRNAs, respectively, but only four miRNAs were upregulated. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that their over‐represented target genes are associated with the synthesis of nitrogen‐containing and aromatic compounds, nucleic acids, and sulphate assimilation. Among them, the sulphate reduction‐related miR395 – ATP‐sulfurylase couple was selected to check the assumed modulating role of the light spectrum. A greater induction of the Asc‐ and Sal‐responsive miR395 was observed under sulphur starvation in far‐red light compared to white and blue light in wild‐type and GSH‐deficient Arabidopsis lines. Sal deficiency inhibited the induction of miR395 by sulphur starvation in blue light, whereas Asc deficiency greatly reduced it independently of the spectrum. Interestingly, sulphur starvation decreased only the level of ATP sulfurylase 4 among the miR395 target genes in far‐red light. The expression level of ATP sulfurylase 3 was higher in far‐red light than in blue light in wild‐type and Asc‐deficient lines. The results indicate the coordinated control of miRNAs by the redox and hormonal system since 11 miRNAs were affected by both Asc and Sal deficiency. This process can be modulated by light spectrum, as shown for miR395.
Racialized Organizations and the Interest Divergence Dilemma1
Authors: Ray Victor
Published: November 2023

This essay makes three points on the contemporary racial backlashes' impact on racialized organizations. First, Derrick Bell's notion of interest convergence—which argues that diversity policies did not spring from the goodness of white people's hearts but were a face‐saving political necessity—helps to explain why the current assault on racially ameliorative policy has been so effective and why the retreat from diversity may worsen. Conservative activists are attempting to force interest divergence, as the historical conditions leading to affirmative action and diversity policy have disappeared. Second, Powell's decision in Regents of University of California versus Bakke, which made diversity orthodox, was facilitated by interest convergence. Diversity emerged as a deeply reformist organizational strategy designed to manage civil rights activists' revolutionary calls for a fully inclusive society. Third, interest divergence and the retreat from diversity have major implications for deepening racial inequality in organizations. By attempting to ensure interest divergence, contemporary right‐wing movements hope to make the currently implicit white dominance of mainstream organizations (Ray 2019b) explicit again.
Violence and the Gray Zone of Politics: An Outline for a Relational Approach
Authors: Auyero Javier
Published: November 2023

In this essay, I illustrate a relational perspective on gray zone politics, one that shifts the substantive and analytic focus of inquiry from groups and places (this trafficking gang, those neofascists, etc.) to the hidden links between them and established actors within the political field (be they state authorities, elected officials, or members of security forces).
Our “Zoological Connections” and Why They Matter
Authors: Irvine Leslie
Published: November 2023

Traditionally overlooked or invisible in sociological analyses, animals have roles in numerous issues of sociological importance. Including them in our research offers a clearer understanding of the social world. Using examples from two topics—the self and the family—this essay shows the value of keeping our “zoological connections” in mind. Research on selfhood among animals challenges dominant views that the self is uniquely human and shaped by social forces, while biology and instinct drive animal behavior. Research on the family illustrates how pets participate in “doing” family and what their participation means for this institution long considered quintessentially human. Sociologists confront continually evolving and hybrid forms of interaction: human and nonhuman, social and natural, online and offline, and more. Understanding these relations will require rethinking major sociological assumptions. The inclusion of animals provides a starting point for expanding and clarifying existing theories to comprehend both novel and familiar social worlds.
Frequency of red blood cell transfusions in preterm neonates in Brazil: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Valete Cristina Ortiz Sobrinho , Angelica Luiz Ferreira Esther , Montenegro Carolina Perez , Pilati Maria Clara Alves , Rodrigues Wilde Marco Otílio Duarte , Witkowski Sandra Mara
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Red blood cell transfusions are frequent in preterm neonates. The proportion of preterm neonates transfused in Brazil remains unknown. We systematically reviewed the literature to estimate the frequency of red blood cell transfusions in preterm neonates in Brazil.

Materials and Methods

The LILACS, EMBASE, Cochrane, SciELO, MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, Scopus, BDTD and 27 national university institutional databases were searched for studies that analysed red blood cell transfusion in preterm neonates in Brazil without period restriction. The Preferred Reporting Items in Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines were followed, and the GRADE methodology was applied. A random‐effects model along with the restricted maximum likelihood method was used, and the Freeman–Tukey transformed proportion was used to estimate effect size.

Results

Nine studies, representing 6548 preterm neonates, were included in the qualitative and quantitative analyses. The mean gestational age ranged from 26.0 to 31.6 weeks. Most of the studies were from the Southeast region. The pooled estimated frequency of red blood cell transfusions was 58.0% (95% confidence interval = 52.0%–64.0%, p < 0.001) with low certainty. There was statistically significant heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 92.5%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this current meta‐analysis of the evidence available, which included moderate and extremely preterm neonates, the observed frequency of red blood cell transfusions in preterm neonates in Brazil was 58.0% and this estimate can help health programming. Some Brazilian regions were not included in this study, and further research is needed to provide a more representative overview of Brazil.
Germination ecology and seedling growth of invasive Ageratum species and allied native Adenostemma lavenia
Authors: Airi Hemanti , Dangol Anuj , Shrestha Ashmita , Kharel Nisha , Devkota Anjana , Thapa Lal Bahadur , Shrestha Bharat Babu
Published: November 2023

The success of invasive plants can be better understood by comparing their traits with closely related native species. This study compared germination ecology and seedling growth of invasive Ageratum houstonianum and Ageratum conyzoides with co‐occurring and allied native Adenostemma lavenia. Seeds were germinated under a different light (12 h photoperiod/complete dark), temperatures (low: 25°C/15°C day/night, and high: 30°C/20°C), and different levels of water stress (−0.1, −0.25, −0.5, −0.75, and −1 MPa). Seedlings were grown to determine biomass allocation, relative growth rate (RGR), plant height, and number of leaves. The seed mass and size of native A. lavenia were higher than those of invasive species. Seeds of all species were positively photoblastic. At low temperature and in all levels of water stress, all measured parameters except mean germination time were the highest in A. houstonianum. However, at high temperature, there was no significant difference in germination percentage between A. houstonianum and A. lavenia. No germination of A. conyzoides and A. lavenia was recorded beyond −0.5 MPa water potential, but seeds of A. houstonianum germinated up to −0.75 MPa. A. houstonianum had higher root mass fraction, root‐to‐shoot ratio, and number of leaves than the other two species. Stem mass fraction and the height of seedling were highest in A. conyzoides. The RGR was 1.6 times higher in invasive Ageratum species than the native species; it was slightly higher in A. houstonianum than in A. conyzoides. Overall, the results suggest that germination traits and seedling growth performance can be used as predictors of a species' invasiveness.
Increased Ability to Perceive Relevant Sensory Information Minimizes Low Back Exposures in Lifting
Authors: Armstrong Daniel P. , Horslen Brian C. , Fischer Steven L.
Published: November 2023

We have previously shown evidence that some individuals seem to consistently minimize low back loads when lifting, while others do not. However, it is unknown why. Individual differences in ability to perceive relevant sensory information may explain differences in minimization of low back loads during lifting, consistent with considering load reduction in one’s movement objective in an optimal feedback control theory framework. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether individuals’ ability to perceive proprioceptive information (both force- and posture-senses) at the low back was associated with peak low back loads when performing generic or occupation-specific lifts. Seventy-two participants were recruited to perform 10 barbell (generic) and backboard (occupation-specific) lifts, while whole-body kinematics and ground reaction forces were collected. Peak low back compression and anteroposterior shear forces normalized to body mass were calculated as dependent variables. Both posture matching ability and force matching ability at the heavier force targets were associated with lower means and variability of peak low-back loads in both lift types, albeit with small effect sizes (R2 ≤ .17). These findings support the utility of an optimal feedback control theory framework to explore factors explaining interindividual differences in low back loads during lifting. Further, this evidence suggests improving proprioceptive ability may be a useful strategy in lift training programs designed for workplace injury prevention.
Mutational processes of tobacco smoking and APOBEC activity generate protein-truncating mutations in cancer genomes
Authors: Adler Nina , Bahcheli Alexander T. , Cheng Kevin C. L. , Al-Zahrani Khalid N. , Slobodyanyuk Mykhaylo , Pellegrina Diogo , Schramek Daniel , Reimand Jüri
Published: November 2023

Mutational signatures represent a genomic footprint of endogenous and exogenous mutational processes through tumor evolution. However, their functional impact on the proteome remains incompletely understood. We analyzed the protein-coding impact of single-base substitution (SBS) signatures in 12,341 cancer genomes from 18 cancer types. Stop-gain mutations (SGMs) (i.e., nonsense mutations) were strongly enriched in SBS signatures of tobacco smoking, APOBEC cytidine deaminases, and reactive oxygen species. These mutational processes alter specific trinucleotide contexts and thereby substitute serines and glutamic acids with stop codons. SGMs frequently affect cancer hallmark pathways and tumor suppressors such asTP53,FAT1, andAPC. Tobacco-driven SGMs in lung cancer correlate with smoking history and highlight a preventable determinant of these harmful mutations. APOBEC-driven SGMs are enriched in YTCA motifs and associate withAPOBEC3Aexpression. Our study exposes SGM expansion as a genetic mechanism by which endogenous and carcinogenic mutational processes directly contribute to protein loss of function, oncogenesis, and tumor heterogeneity.