bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seedling performance in a dioecious tree species is similar near female and male conspecific adults despite differences in colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Eck Jenalle L. , Delavaux Camille S. , Wilson Dara M. , Queenborough Simon A. , Comita Liza S.
Published: January 2023

Plant-soil feedbacks are a key driver of species diversity and composition in plant communities worldwide; however, the factors that may cause feedbacks to vary within species are rarely examined. In dioecious species, the strength of feedbacks may differ near female plants that produce seed versus near male plants (which do not) because repeated inputs of seeds and high seedling densities near females may cause accumulation of host-specific soil microbes that influence seedling performance. To test whether conspecific seedling performance is reduced near seed-producing female trees relative to male or heterospecific trees, we conducted shadehouse and field experiments with a dioecious tropical tree species,Virola surinamensis(Myristicaceae), on Barro Colorado Island, Panama. The shadehouse experiment isolated the effect of soil microbial communities on seedling growth and allowed us to quantify colonization by mutualistic arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, while the field experiment allowed us to assess seedling survival and growth in the presence of nearby conspecific adults and seedlings. In both experiments, seedling performance was similar between seedlings grown in the soil microbial communities and field environments underneath female conspecific, male conspecific, and heterospecific trees. However, contrary to expectation, seedling colonization by AM fungi was higher in male conspecific soil microbial communities than in female or heterospecific soil microbial communities at the end of the shadehouse experiment. Together, our experiments show that while differences among female and male plants in dioecious species may influence the association of conspecific seedlings with AM fungi in their soils, this variation does not necessarily translate directly to differences in seedling performance, at least over the time frame of our experiments. Studies of additional dioecious species are needed to help determine differences in soil microbial communities beneath male and female plants and to assess the role of seed input versus adult root systems in driving plant-soil feedbacks.
Cortical beta power reflects a neural implementation of decision boundary collapse in speeded decisions
Authors: Kirschner Hans , Fischer Adrian G. , Danielmeier Claudia , Klein Tilmann A. , Ullsperger Markus
Published: January 2023

A prominent account of decision-making assumes that information is accumulated until a fixed response threshold is crossed. However, many decisions require weighting of information appropriately against time. Collapsing response thresholds are a mathematically optimal solution to this decision problem. However, our understanding of the neurocomputational mechanisms that underly dynamic response thresholds remains very incomplete. To investigate this issue, we used a multistage drift diffusion model (DDM) and also analysed EEG beta power lateralization (BPL). The latter served as a neural proxy for decision signals. We analysed a large dataset (n=863) from a speeded flanker task and data from an independent confirmation sample (n=119). We show that a DDM with collapsing decision thresholds, a process where the decision boundary reduces over time, captured participants’ time-dependent decision policy better than a model with fixed thresholds. Previous research suggests that BPL over motor cortices reflects features of a decision signal and that its peak may serve as a neural proxy for the decision threshold. Our findings offer compelling evidence for the existence of collapsing decision thresholds in decision-making processes.
A highly divergent mitochondrial genome in extant Cape buffalo from Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa
Authors: de Jager Deon , Möller Marlo , Hoal Eileen , van Helden Paul , Glanzmann Brigitte , Harper Cindy , Bloomer Paulette
Published: January 2023

The reduced cost of next-generation sequencing (NGS) has allowed researchers to generate nuclear and mitochondrial genome data to gain deeper insights into the phylogeography, evolutionary history, and biology of non-model species. While the Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer) has been well-studied across its range with traditional genetic markers over the last 25 years, researchers are building on this knowledge by generating whole genome, population-level data sets to improve understanding of the genetic composition and evolutionary history of the species. Using publicly available NGS data, we assembled 40 Cape buffalo mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) from four protected areas in South Africa, expanding the geographical range and almost doubling the number of mitogenomes available for this species. Coverage of the mitogenomes ranged from 154-1,036X. Haplotype and nucleotide diversity for Kruger National Park (n = 15) and Mokala National Park (n = 5) were similar to diversity levels in southern and eastern Africa. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (n = 15) had low levels of genetic diversity, with only four haplotypes detected, reflecting its past bottleneck. Addo Elephant National Park (n = 5) had the highest nucleotide diversity of all populations across Africa, which was unexpected, as it is known from previous studies to have low nuclear diversity. This diversity was driven by a highly divergent mitogenome from one sample, which was subsequently identified in another sample via Sanger sequencing of the cytochromebgene. Using a fossil-calibrated phylogenetic analysis, we estimated that this lineage diverged from all other Cape buffalo lineages approximately 2.51 million years ago. We discuss several potential sources of this mitogenome but propose that it most likely originated through introgressive hybridisation with an extinct buffalo species, eitherS. acoelotusorS. antiquus. We conclude by discussing the conservation consequences of this finding for the Addo Elephant National Park population, proposing careful genetic management to prevent inbreeding depression while maintaining this highly unique diversity.
Grey fuzzy prediction model of soil organic matter content using hyper-spectral data
Authors: Yu Jintao , Li Xican , Cao Shuang , Liu Fajun
Published: January 2023

Purpose

In order to overcome the uncertainty and improve the accuracy of spectral estimation, this paper aims to establish a grey fuzzy prediction model of soil organic matter content by using grey theory and fuzzy theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the data of 121 soil samples from Zhangqiu district and Jiyang district of Jinan City, Shandong Province, firstly, the soil spectral data are transformed by spectral transformation methods, and the spectral estimation factors are selected according to the principle of maximum correlation. Then, the generalized greyness of interval grey number is used to modify the estimation factors of modeling samples and test samples to improve the correlation. Finally, the hyper-spectral prediction model of soil organic matter is established by using the fuzzy recognition theory, and the model is optimized by adjusting the fuzzy classification number, and the estimation accuracy of the model is evaluated using the mean relative error and the determination coefficient.

Findings

The results show that the generalized greyness of interval grey number can effectively improve the correlation between soil organic matter content and estimation factors, and the accuracy of the proposed model and test samples are significantly improved, where the determination coefficient R2 = 0.9213 and the mean relative error (MRE) = 6.3630% of 20 test samples. The research shows that the grey fuzzy prediction model proposed in this paper is feasible and effective, and provides a new way for hyper-spectral estimation of soil organic matter content.

Practical implications

The research shows that the grey fuzzy prediction model proposed in this paper can not only effectively deal with the three types of uncertainties in spectral estimation, but also realize the correction of estimation factors, which is helpful to improve the accuracy of modeling estimation. The research result enriches the theory and method of soil spectral estimation, and it also provides a new idea to deal with the three kinds of uncertainty in the prediction problem by using the three kinds of uncertainty theory.

Originality/value

The paper succeeds in realizing both the grey fuzzy prediction model for hyper-spectral estimating soil organic matter content and effectively dealing with the randomness, fuzziness and grey uncertainty in spectral estimation.
The role of social media engagement and emotional intelligence in successful employment
Authors: Ashaye Olusoyi Richard , Mahmoud Ali B. , Munna Afzal Sayed , Ali Nurhanisah
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper focusses on demonstrating the role of social media engagement and considering emotional intelligence (hereafter EI) as a critical concept to successful employment, mainly when individuals fail to reach the desired employment despite “meeting” the role requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted a qualitative approach through semi-structured in-depth interviews of some randomly selected university students in the UK, young adults aged 19–32. The participants were selected based on different demographics to provide a broader and less biased representation of young adults in the UK.

Findings

This research suggests that recruitment organisations should introduce the latest requirements and trends of employers to ensure that the expectations of employers and potential candidates are aligned to improve the employment rate in young adults.

Originality/value

This research extends the literature regarding EI in social media engagement and successful employment. It also brings new perspectives on successful employment in young adults by demonstrating the role of social media engagement and EI traits leading to a conceptual framework exploring successful employment based on the role of social media engagement and EI.
Bank's service failures and bank customers' switching behavior: does bank reputation matter?
Authors: Zhao Cong , Noman Abu Hanifa Md. , Hassan Mohammad Kabir
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Banks' service failures are a major determinant of bank customers' switching behavior, which ultimately affects the profitability and stability of banks. Guided by the expectancy violation theory (EVT), this study aims to examine whether and how bank reputation influences the relationship between service failure and customers' switching behavior in the Malaysian banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

By distributing questionnaires to Malaysian bank account holders, the authors gathered 320 usable responses, which were subsequently subjected to explanatory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, Logit regression, Probit regression and independent-variables T-test to identify and elucidate the relationship existent between the dependent and independent variables.

Findings

This study discovered that bank reputation affects the bank customers' switching behavior directly and indirectly via banks' service failure, thereby verifying the application of EVT in the context of customer management.

Research limitations/implications

Although the profile of respondents in this study presents a reasonable representation of the Malaysian population, the use of convenience (non-probability) sampling method via online survey may not provide generalizable results.

Originality/value

This study empirically revealed that bank reputation plays a moderator role between service failure in banks and customers' bank-switching behavior. This observation offers useful insights to bank managers into the role of bank reputation in managing customers' switching behavior.
Unlocking the benefits of diversity among healthcare workforces: a holistic view
Authors: Perrigino Matthew B. , Jenkins Marjorie
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The increasing diversity among workforces – as well as the increasing diversity among patient populations served – offers a variety of opportunities and potential pitfalls for healthcare organizations and leaders. To unravel this complexity, the authors aim to holistically understand how to maximize provider and patient experiences regardless of (1) the degree to which diversity is present or lacking, and (2) the type(s) of diversity under consideration.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper develops a framework that combines three organizational behavior theories – emotional labor theory, similarity-attraction theory and climate theory – with evidence from the broader healthcare literature.

Findings

Authentic interactions yield positive outcomes for providers (i.e. improved job attitudes and work-related well-being) and patients (i.e. patient satisfaction) and acts as a mediator between demographic diversity and positive outcomes. Demographic similarity facilitates authentic interactions, whereas demographic diversity creates an initial barrier to engaging authentically with others. However, the presence of a positive diversity climate eliminates this barrier.

Originality/value

The authors offer a conceptual model to unlock positive outcomes – including reduced absenteeism, better morale and improved patient satisfaction – regardless of the level and types of diversity present within the workforce. In addition to deriving an agenda for future research, the authors offer practical applications regarding how diversity can be more effectively managed and promoted within healthcare organizations.
Lessons learned in the field: conducting qualitative research with Bangladeshi immigrant communities in Lisbon, Brussels and Boston
Authors: Khan Rodela Anjum
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This article presents fieldwork perspectives gained from conducting qualitative research among Bangladeshi immigrant communities in Lisbon (Portugal), Boston (Massachusetts – USA) and Brussels (Belgium). This discussion will primarily benefit those who conduct, or are interested in, undertaking qualitative research with Bangladeshi immigrants, one of the largest immigrant communities represented globally.

Design/methodology/approach

The author conducted 32 semi-structured interviews using a qualitative descriptive approach.

Findings

The author discusses and demonstrates effective strategies to acquire meaningful insights from fieldwork while interviewing Bangladeshi immigrants. Though maintaining standard criteria for producing credible qualitative research is crucial, the adoption of a flexible and dynamic approach is also necessary. The article highlights versatile approaches taken in the following four areas: (1) establishing community presence, (2) managing informed consent, (3) adjusting research instruments and protocols, and (4) dealing with unexpected situations during fieldwork. Moreover, these elements are examined within the context of navigating the role and positionality of the researcher.

Research limitations/implications

The generalizability of these techniques is limited to this study, but similar issues in conducting qualitative research with Bangladeshi communities and other immigrant groups can be found.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a gap in the discussion of fieldwork strategies for conducting qualitative research with Bangladeshi immigrant communities. Practical knowledge for researchers facilitating qualitative research with this group is relatively scarce despite the growing presence of these communities globally.
The impact of using digital technologies on supply chain resilience and robustness: the role of memory under the covid-19 outbreak
Authors: Alvarenga Murilo Zamboni , Oliveira Marcos Paulo Valadares de , Oliveira Tiago André Gonçalves Félix de
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper’s main aim is to check the mediating effect of supply chain memory in the relationship between using digital technologies and both supply chain resilience and robustness. In addition, the impact of the COVID-19 disruption was tested as a moderator of the impact of supply chain memory on supply chain resilience and robustness.

Design/methodology/approach

Altogether, 257 supply chain managers answered the questionnaire, and data were analysed through structural equation modelling.

Findings

This paper contributes to theory and practice by demonstrating that the experience, familiarity and knowledge to deal with disruptions partially mediate the relationship between digital technologies, resilience and robustness. Moreover, our results show that memory is less efficient for the supply chain to maintain an acceptable level of performance in case of a new extreme disruptive event like COVID-19. The full model was able to explain 36.90% of supply chain memory, 41.58% of supply chain resilience and 46.21% of supply chain robustness.

Originality/value

The study helps to understand how to develop supply chain memory, positioning digital technologies as an antecedent of it. The impact of supply chain memory on supply chain resilience and robustness is proved. Knowledge about the impact of industry 4.0 technologies on disruption management is quantitatively improved. It demonstrates that digital technologies impact resilience and robustness mainly through supply chain memory. The study proves that supply chain memory is less efficient for the chain remains effective when a non-routine disruptive event occurs, but it is still imperative to recover from it.
Assimilated or the boundary of Whiteness expanded? A boundary model of group belonging
Authors: Karimi Aryan , Wilkes Rima
Published: January 2023

In 19th century U.S., European ethnics were considered dark‐skinned and working‐class. By the 1950s, they were re‐categorized as White Americans. Assimilation theory suggests that Europeans' intergroup interactions such as socioeconomic attainments and intermarriage with Anglo‐Saxon Whites led to their assimilation and racial re‐categorization. The theory anticipates that class mobility translates into re‐categorization into Whiteness such that non‐Europeans' upward mobility will also propel them into Whiteness. Despite non‐Europeans' successful intergroup interactions, their assimilation and belonging is still up for debate. If both Europeans and non‐Europeans have participated in similar rates of intergroup interactions, which other factor has determined their differential assimilation outcomes? In response, we conceptualize a boundary model for understanding group belonging. To do so, we distinguish between symbolic and phenotype or somatic race. The former provides and attaches meanings to soma. This boundary model comprises the combined effects of individuals' intergroup interactions and majority groups' symbolic racial boundary expansion‐contraction. Assimilation outcome occurs only when majority groups' boundary expands to recognize intergroup interactions as meaningful and to include newcomers as racial group insiders. We revisit the case of European ethnics to show that the symbolic boundary of Whiteness expanded to re‐categorize them as assimilated Whites. Accordingly, we formulate four hypotheses about the possibilities of re‐categorizing groups in and out of a master category such as Whiteness.
Comparative study on Pseudaulacaspis pentagona resistance of four different cultivars of kiwifruit
Authors: Zheng Xianzhe , Li Qiaohong , Zhang Qian , Wu Guanle , Tao Ke , Deng Wei , Zhuang Qiguo
Published: January 2023

Kiwifruit is a common and popular fruit around the world. However, white peach scale (Pseudaulacaspis pentagona [Targioni‐Tozzetti]), a scale insect with a wide range of hosts, seriously affects the yield and quality of kiwifruit. To investigate the differences in resistance of different kiwifruit cultivars to P. pentagona, cellular structure and gene expression assays were used to explain the mechanism. Based on the stability of the infestation rate, we selected four cultivars from 50 kiwifruits for in‐depth study, including ‘LC‐04285’, ‘CF‐3’, ‘DA‐7B’ and ‘Hayward’. The anatomical structure of the canes analysis revealed that the resistant cultivar ‘LC‐04285’ had thicker cuticle, denser epidermis and cortex. The expression levels of genes related to cuticle synthesis and formation of epidermis and cortex were also higher in ‘LC‐04285’. Further investigation revealed that Jasmonic acid (JA) receptors COI1 were highly expressed in ‘LC‐04285’. However, the expression levels of AcJAZs were higher in the susceptible cultivar ‘Hayward’. Besides, AcICS, AcPAL4, AcPAL5 and AcNPRs, which were involved in salicylic acid (SA) synthesis and SA response, were also highly expressed in ‘LC‐04285’. Our results preliminarily revealed the mechanism of kiwifruit resistance to P. pentagona at the molecular and cellular levels. This study provided useful guidance for breeding insect‐resistant kiwifruit in the future.
Do Immigrants Move to Welfare? Subnational Evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Ferwerda Jeremy , Marbach Moritz , Hangartner Dominik
Published: January 2023

The welfare magnet hypothesis holds that immigrants are likely to relocate to regions with generous welfare benefits. Although this assumption has motivated extensive reforms to immigration policy and social programs, the empirical evidence remains contested. In this study, we assess detailed administrative records from Switzerland covering the full population of social assistance recipients between 2005 and 2015. By leveraging local variations in cash transfers and exogenous shocks to benefit levels, we identify how benefits shape intracountry residential decisions. We find limited evidence that immigrants systematically move to localities with higher benefits. The lack of significant welfare migration within a context characterized by high variance in benefits and low barriers to movement suggests that the prevalence of this phenomenon may be overstated. These findings have important implications in the European setting where subnational governments often possess discretion over welfare and parties frequently mobilize voters around the issue of “benefit tourism.”
Impact of paternal age on assisted reproductive technology outcomes and offspring health: a systematic review
Authors: Gourinat Annabelle , Mazeaud Charles , Hubert Jacques , Eschwege Pascal , Koscinski Isabelle
Published: January 2023

Background

The increase in paternal age and the percentage of births after assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may have consequences on offspring and society's position regarding access to ART must be questioned. Most countries recommend limiting ART to men under 60 years. What is the rationale for this threshold?

Objective

This systematic review assesses scientific arguments to establish links between paternal age, male fertility, and offspring health.

Material and methods

Using the PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review of the literature analyzed 111 articles selected after screening PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science for articles published between January 1, 1995 and December 31, 2021.

Results

A strong correlation was highlighted between advanced paternal age and a decrease of some sperm parameters (semen volume and sperm motility) and infant morbidity (exponentially increased incidence of achondroplasia and Apert syndrome, and more moderately increased incidence of autism and schizophrenia). The impact of paternal age on pregnancy and fetal aneuploidy rates is more controversial. No association was found with spontaneous abortion rates.

Discussion and conclusion

The scientific parameters should be explained to older parents undergoing ART. And for countries that discuss a limit on paternal age for access to ART, the debate requires consideration of social and ethical arguments.
Cerebral palsy and bisphosphonates – and what can be learned from other types of secondary osteoporosis in children: A scoping review
Authors: Granild‐Jensen Jakob B. , Pedersen Line K. , Langdahl Bente , Starup‐Linde Jakob , Rackauskaite Gija , Farholt Stense , Søndergaard Charlotte , Vestergaard Esben T. , Møller‐Madsen Bjarne
Published: January 2023

Aim

We aimed to improve bone health management of children with cerebral palsy (CP) by reviewing studies investigating bisphosphonate therapy in children with CP and other types of secondary osteoporosis.

Methods

We included trials on bisphosphonate treatment reporting any direct bone measurement or fracture outcome. All studies of patients with CP were included. We also included all controlled trials of children with secondary bone fragility as well as observational studies with ≥20 participants or at least 3 years of follow‐up. Studies were assessed according to PRISMA guidelines using the RoB2‐tool and the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale.

Results

We reviewed 1104 studies and found 37 eligible. Some studies were sufficiently homogeneous to include in a meta‐analysis, and we found a 1‐year effect on lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) Z‐score of +0.65 after oral and + 1.21 after intravenous bisphosphonates in children with secondary osteoporosis. Further, data on adverse events and post‐treatment follow‐up were reviewed. Limitations were heterogeneity and small size of the included studies.

Conclusion

Meta‐analysis consistently showed significant BMD increases with bisphosphonates in children with secondary osteoporosis. Direct evidence of the effect of bisphosphonates on reducing fractures is lacking. We found no reports of long‐term adverse events yet longer studies are needed.
Factors associated with exclusive formula feeding among individuals with low‐risk pregnancies in the United States
Authors: Fishel Bartal Michal , Huntley Erin S. , Chen Han‐Yang , Huntley Benjamin J. F. , Wagner Stephen M. , Sibai Baha M. , Chauhan Suneet P.
Published: January 2023

Background

Better understanding of the factors associated with formula feeding during the hospital stay can help in identifying potential lactation problems and promote early intervention. Our aim was to ascertain factors associated with exclusive formula feeding in newborns of low‐risk pregnancies.

Methods

A population‐based, retrospective study using the United States vital statistics datasets (2014‐2018) evaluating low‐risk pregnancies with a nonanomalous singleton delivery from 37 to 41 weeks. People with hypertensive disorders, or diabetes, were excluded. Primary outcome was newborn feeding (breast vs exclusive formula feeding) during hospital stay. Adjusted relative risks (aRRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated.

Results

Of the 19 623 195 live births during the study period, 11 605 242 (59.1%) met inclusion criteria and among them, 1 929 526 (16.6%) were formula fed. Factors associated with formula feeding included: age < 20 years (aRR 1.31 [95% CI 1.31‐1.32]), non‐Hispanic Black (1.42, 1.41‐1.42), high school education (1.69, 1.69‐1.70) or less than high school education (1.94, 1.93, 1.95), Medicaid insurance (1.52, 1.51, 1.52), body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 (1.10, 1.09‐1.10), BMI 25‐29.9 (1.09, 1.09‐1.09), BMI 30‐34.9 (1.19, 1.19‐1.20), BMI 35‐39.9 (1.31, 1.30‐1.31), BMI ≥ 40 (1.43, 1.42‐1.44), multiparity (1.29, 1.29‐1.30), lack of prenatal care (1.49, 1.48‐1.50), smoking (1.75, 1.74‐1.75), and gestational age (ranged from 37 weeks [1.44, 1.43‐1.45] to 40 weeks [1.11, 1.11‐1.12]).

Conclusions

Using a large cohort of low‐risk pregnancies, we identified several modifiable factors associated with newborn feeding (eg, prepregnancy BMI, access to prenatal care, and smoking cessation). Improving the breast feeding initiation rate should be a priority in our current practice to ensure equitable care for all neonates.
Teachers' bullying‐related cognitions as predictors of their responses to bullying among students
Authors: van Gils Fleur Elisabeth , Verschueren Karine , Demol Karlien , ten Bokkel Isabel Maria , Colpin Hilde
Published: January 2023

Background

Teachers may play a key role in reducing bullying by responding to incidents among students. Inspired by the theory of planned behaviour, several studies have investigated teachers' bullying‐related cognitions as predictors of their responses to bullying.

Aims

This study investigated whether six teachers' bullying‐related cognitions (i.e., perceived seriousness, empathy, attitudes, self‐efficacy and attribution of the bullying) predicted five student‐perceived teachers' responses (i.e., Non‐Intervention, Disciplinary Methods, Victim Support, Mediation and Group Discussion) over time. By examining this objective, more insight into student perceptions of teachers' responses to bullying could also be provided.

Sample

In total, 999 upper elementary school students (Mage = 10.61 at Wave 1, SDage = .90; 53.6% girls) and their 59 teachers (Mage = 39.61 at W1, SDage = 11.60; 79.7% female) participated.

Methods

A bullying questionnaire was administered in three waves to assess students' perceptions of the teachers' responses. Teachers reported bullying‐related cognitions in the first wave. Multilevel analyses were used to investigate the relative contribution of the predictors on the teachers' responses over time.

Results

None of the teachers' bullying‐related cognitions significantly predicted the teachers' specific responses.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that teachers' bullying‐related cognitions are not reflected in their responses to bullying as perceived by students. Moreover, the findings indicate that students' perceptions of teachers' responses vary widely within classrooms and over time. Student‐ and teacher‐reported teachers' responses might differ, and these possible differences should be taken into account.
Ethnic identity in school context: The case of Yi ethnic minority adolescents in rural China
Authors: Lai Angel Hor‐Yan , Chui Cheryl Hui Kwan , Hausmann‐Stabile Carolina , Yao Hong , Wong Jade Kin Yu , Di Sun
Published: January 2023

Using Yi adolescents in rural China (n = 163) as an example, this qualitative study explored how school ethnic socialization shaped the ethnic identity development and the future self of indigenous youths in mainstream Han‐dominant school settings. Focus groups and thematic analysis were used. Six themes emerged, describing the participants' experiences of mainstream socialization, cultural socialization and multiculturalism within their school and how these practices shape their ethnic identity. Mainstream socialization also shaped their future aspirations by motivating them to utilize their education to contribute to the Yi community and to improve the status of Yi women. While mainstream socialization was seen as undesirable in current literature, our findings suggested that it facilitates ethnic identity development in indigenous adolescents by broadening their horizons to Han cultures if rural schools in China also practice cultural socialization concurrently.
Colorimetric sensing of H2PO4− using a Pb2+ complex of a pyridylazo dye in aqueous solution
Authors: Shimizu Mahiro , Aikawa Shunichi , Fukushima Yasumasa
Published: January 2023

This study develops a sensitive and selective colorimetric probe for the detection of dihydrogen phosphate (H2PO4−) based on a lead ion (Pb2+) complex of a commercially available pyridylazo dye (PAPS) in aqueous media under physiological conditions. The complex was made by adding Pb2+ to PAPS in a 1:1 stoichiometric ratio (PAPS‐Pb2+), which was accompanied by the remarkable solution change from yellow to purple. The colorimetric sensing of H2PO4− over other anions with PAPS‐Pb2+ occurred owing to the regeneration of original PAPS by the interaction of H2PO4− with Pb2+ in a 1:2 molar ratio. Moreover, the H2PO4− detection was less affected by the presence of other coexisting competitive anions. The colorimetric naked‐eye behaviour of PAPS‐Pb2+ rendered a useful and convenient probe for the detection of H2PO4− via the indicator displacement assay.
The relationship between high density lipoprotein cholesterol and sepsis: A clinical and genetic approach
Authors: Liu Ge , Jiang Lan , Kerchberger V. Eric , Oeser Annette , Ihegword Andrea , Dickson Alyson L. , Daniel Laura L. , Shaffer Christian , Linton MacRae F. , Cox Nancy , Chung Cecilia P. , Wei Wei‐Qi , Stein C. Michael , Feng QiPing
Published: January 2023

Sepsis accounts for one in three hospital deaths. Higher concentrations of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) are associated with apparent protection from sepsis, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for HDL‐C or drugs, such as cholesteryl ester transport protein (CETP) inhibitors that increase HDL‐C. However, these beneficial clinical associations might be due to confounding; genetic approaches can address this possibility. We identified 73,406 White adults admitted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center with infection; 11,612 had HDL‐C levels, and 12,377 had genotype information from which we constructed polygenic risk scores (PRS) for HDL‐C and the effect of CETP on HDL‐C. We tested the associations between predictors (measured HDL‐C, HDL‐C PRS, CETP PRS, and rs1800777) and outcomes: sepsis, septic shock, respiratory failure, and in‐hospital death. In unadjusted analyses, lower measured HDL‐C concentrations were significantly associated with increased risk of sepsis (p = 2.4 × 10−23), septic shock (p = 4.1 × 10−12), respiratory failure (p = 2.8 × 10−8), and in‐hospital death (p = 1.0 × 10−8). After adjustment (age, sex, electronic health record length, comorbidity score, LDL‐C, triglycerides, and body mass index), these associations were markedly attenuated: sepsis (p = 2.6 × 10−3), septic shock (p = 8.1 × 10−3), respiratory failure (p = 0.11), and in‐hospital death (p = 4.5 × 10−3). HDL‐C PRS, CETP PRS, and rs1800777 significantly predicted HDL‐C (p < 2 × 10−16), but none were associated with sepsis outcomes. Concordant findings were observed in 13,254 Black patients hospitalized with infections. Lower measured HDL‐C levels were significantly associated with increased risk of sepsis and related outcomes in patients with infection, but a causal relationship is unlikely because no association was found between the HDL‐C PRS or the CETP PRS and the risk of adverse sepsis outcomes.
Labile plasma iron and echocardiographic parameters are associated with cardiac events in β‐thalassemic patients
Authors: Ferrara Francesca , Coppi Francesca , Riva Roberta , Ventura Paolo , Ricci Andrea , Mattioli Anna Vittoria , Talarico Marisa , Garuti Cinzia , Bevini Mirco , Rochira Vincenzo , Buzzetti Elena , Pietrangelo Antonello , Corradini Elena
Published: January 2023

Background and Aim

Notwithstanding the improvement in therapies, patients affected by thalassemia major (TM) and intermedia (TI) are still at high risk of cardiac complications. This study aimed at evaluating the incidence and predictive factors for developing cardiac events in adult β‐TM and TI patients.

Population and Methods

Data on diagnosis and clinical history were collected retrospectively; prospective data on new‐onset cardiac failure and arrhythmias, echocardiographic parameters, biochemical variables including non‐transferrin‐bound iron (NTBI) and labile plasma iron (LPI), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2* measurement of hepatic and cardiac iron deposits, and iron chelation therapy were recorded during a 6‐year follow‐up.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients, 29 TM and 8 TI, were included. At baseline, 8 TM patients and 1 TI patient had previously experienced a cardiac event (mainly heart failure). All patients were on chelation therapy and only 3 TM patients had mild‐to‐severe cardiac siderosis. During follow‐up, 11 patients (29.7%) experienced a new cardiac event. The occurrence of cardiac events was correlated to high LPI levels (OR 12.0, 95% CI 1.56–92.3, p .017), low mean pre‐transfusion haemoglobin (OR 0.21, 95% C.I. 0.051–0.761, p .21) and echocardiographic parameters suggestive of myocardial hypertrophy. Multivariate analysis disclosed high LPI and left ventricle mass index (LVMI) as independent variables significantly associated with cardiac events. Cardiac iron deposits measured by MRI T2* failed to predict cardiac events.

Conclusion

LPI, Hb levels and echocardiographic parameters assessing cardiac remodelling are associated with cardiac events in adult TM and TI patients. LPI might represent both a prognostic marker and a potential target for novel treatment strategies. Further studies are warranted to confirm our findings on larger populations.
Time‐to‐therapy discontinuation in patients newly diagnosed with schizophrenia initiated on long‐acting injectable versus oral dopamine receptor blocking agents
Authors: Schwartz Shaina , Lee Sun , Coble Erin Baily , Troxler Colton , Toscano Samantha , Kumar Archana
Published: January 2023

Aim

The purpose of this project is to assess the time‐to‐therapy discontinuation and hospital readmission rate among patients newly diagnosed with schizophrenia who are prescribed long‐acting injectable versus oral dopamine receptor blocking agents.

Methods

A retrospective review of medical records was performed for adult patients admitted to an 80‐bed inpatient behavioural health facility with a new diagnosis of schizophrenia. The primary outcome studied was time to therapy discontinuation within 1 year of discharge, while secondary outcomes assessed were time‐to‐therapy discontinuation within 90 days and readmission rate at 30‐days, 6 months, and 1 year. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard and linear regression modelling were used for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 425 patients were included in the analysis, with 66.4% (n = 282) discharged on oral and 33.6% (n = 143) on long‐acting injectable dopamine receptor blocking agents. At 1 year post‐discharge, the rates of discontinuation were 49.7% for those prescribed long‐acting injectable and 55.7% for those prescribed oral formulations (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.54, p = .012). There was no statistically significant difference in readmission rate between the patients prescribed long‐acting injectable and oral dopamine receptor blocking agents at any timepoint tested.

Conclusions

The use of long‐acting injectable dopamine receptor blocking agents was associated with longer time‐to‐discontinuation compared to oral agents when prescribed to patients newly diagnosed with schizophrenia in the inpatient setting. However, this was not associated with significant reductions in rehospitalization, calling into question the clinical impact. Future studies will seek to confirm these findings using a prospective study design.
Keratinocytes activated by IL‐4/IL‐13 express IL‐2Rγ with consequences on epidermal barrier function
Authors: Progneaux Audrey , Evrard Céline , De Glas Valérie , Fontaine Alix , Dotreppe Céline , De Vuyst Evelyne , Nikkels Arjen F. , García‐González Vicente , Dumoutier Laure , Lambert de Rouvroit Catherine , Poumay Yves
Published: January 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a Th2‐type inflammatory disease characterized by an alteration of epidermal barrier following the release of IL‐4 and IL‐13. These cytokines activate type II IL‐4Rα/IL‐13Rα1 receptors in the keratinocyte. Whilst IL‐2Rγ, that forms type I receptor for IL‐4, is only expressed in haematopoietic cells, recent studies suggest its induction in keratinocytes, which questions about its role. We studied expression of IL‐2Rγ in keratinocytes and its role in alteration of keratinocyte function and epidermal barrier. IL‐2Rγ expression in keratinocytes was studied using both reconstructed human epidermis (RHE) exposed to IL‐4/IL‐13 and AD skin. IL‐2Rγ induction by type II receptor has been analyzed using JAK inhibitors and RHE knockout (KO) for IL13RA1. IL‐2Rγ function was investigated in RHE KO for IL2RG. In RHE, IL‐4/IL‐13 induce expression of IL‐2Rγ at the mRNA and protein levels. Its mRNA expression is also visualized in keratinocytes of lesional AD skin. IL‐2Rγ expression is low in RHE treated with JAK inhibitors and absent in RHE KO for IL13RA1. Exposure to IL‐4/IL‐13 alters epidermal barrier, but this alteration is absent in RHE KO for IL2RG. A more important induction of IL‐13Rα2 is reported in RHE KO for IL2RG than in not edited RHE. These results demonstrate IL‐2Rγ induction in keratinocytes through activation of type II receptor. IL‐2Rγ is involved in the alteration of the epidermal barrier and in the regulation of IL‐13Rα2 expression. Observation of IL‐2Rγ expression by keratinocytes inside AD lesional skin suggests a role for this receptor subunit in the disease.
When attitudes and beliefs get in the way of shared decision‐making: A mediation analysis of participation preference
Authors: Büdenbender Björn , Köther Anja K. , Grüne Britta , Michel Maurice S. , Kriegmair Maximilian C. , Alpers Georg W.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Certain sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., older age) have previously been identified as barriers to patients' participation preference in shared decision‐making (SDM). We aim to demonstrate that this relationship is mediated by the perceived power imbalance that manifests itself in patients' negative attitudes and beliefs about their role in decision‐making.

Methods

We recruited a large sample (N = 434) of outpatients with a range of urological diagnoses (42.2% urooncological). Before the medical consultation at a university hospital, patients completed the Patients' Attitudes and Beliefs Scale and the Autonomy Preference Index. We evaluated attitudes as a mediator between sociodemographic factors and participation preference in a path model.

Results

We replicated associations between relevant sociodemographic factors and participation preference. Importantly, attitudes and beliefs about one's own role as a patient mediated this relationship. The mediation path model explained a substantial proportion of the variance in participation preference (27.8%). Participation preferences and attitudes did not differ for oncological and nononcological patients.

Conclusion

Patients' attitudes and beliefs about their role determine whether they are willing to participate in medical decision‐making. Thus, inviting patients to participate in SDM should encompass an assessment of their attitudes and beliefs. Importantly, negative attitudes may be accessible to change. Unlike stable sociodemographic characteristics, such values are promising targets for interventions to foster more active participation in SDM.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was part of a larger project on implementing SDM in urological practice. Several stakeholders were involved in the design, planning and conduction of this study, for example, three authors are practising urologists, and three are psychologists with experience in patient care. In addition, the survey was piloted with patients, and their feedback was integrated into the questionnaire. The data presented in this study is based on patients' responses. Results may help to empower our patients.
Self‐care nursing interventions: A qualitative study into electronic health records’ contents
Authors: Queirós Carmen , Paiva e Silva Maria Antónia Taveira Cruz , Gomes João , Neves Hugo , Cruz Inês , Brito Alice , Cardoso Alexandrina , Pereira Filipe
Published: January 2023

Aims

This study aims to (1) analyse all self‐care–related interventions Portuguese nurses documented, (2) determine potential issues that may impair semantic interoperability and (3) propose a new set of interventions representing nursing actions regarding self‐care that may integrate any HER application.

Background

As populations age and chronic diseases increase, self‐care concerns rise. Individuals who seek healthcare, regardless of context, need prompt access to accurate health information. Healthcare professionals need to understand the information in all places where care is provided, creating the need for semantic interoperability within electronic health records.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive and exploratory study was conducted in two phases: (1) a content analysis of nursing interventions e‐documentation and (2) a focus group with fifteen registered nurses exploring latent criteria or insights gleaned from the findings of content analysis. The COREQ statement was used to guide research reporting.

Results

We extracted 1529 nursing intervention sentences from the electronic health records and created 209 intervention categories. We identified the main issues with semantic interoperability in nursing intervention identification.

Conclusion

According to the findings, nurses cooperate with clients, offering physical aid and encouraging them to overcome functional limitations to self‐care tasks hampered by their conditions.

Implications for nursing policy and health policy

This article provides evidence to warn policy makers against decisions to use locally customised electronic health records, as well as evidence on the importance of policy promoting the adoption of a nursing ontology for electronic health records. And, as a result, the harmonisation and effective provision of high‐quality nursing care and the reduction of healthcare costs across nations.
Asymmetric Interstate Solidarity and Return Sponsorship
Authors: Milazzo Eleonora
Published: January 2023

The ‘flexible’ interstate solidarity model envisaged by the 2020 ‘New Pact on Migration and Asylum’ (‘the Pact’) allows European Union (EU) member states to choose how to do their share in the distribution of the costs connected to asylum. According to one of the proposals contained in the Pact, member states have the option to contribute to the distribution through return sponsorship, taking measures to facilitate the return of irregular migrants residing in other member states. This paper asks: should EU member states be allowed to discharge their solidarity obligations through return sponsorship as envisaged by the Pact? Scholars of the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) have raised several doubts about this proposal, particularly regarding the feasibility of return sponsorship and the related risks for human rights. Although the proposal is pragmatic in some respects, these problematic aspects pose at least two questions for normative political theorists: first, should member states be allowed to choose their form of contribution in a solidarity scheme? And, if so, should return sponsorship be one of the contributions allowed? Building on normative theories of solidarity in the EU, this article will argue that return sponsorship should be rejected both because it does not further solidarity among member states and because the rights of rejected asylum seekers set a strong presumption against it.
Individual differences in harm‐related moral values are associated with functional integration of large‐scale brain networks of emotional regulation
Authors: Li Wei , Ye Shuer , Zhu Bing , Hoffman Morris , Zhou Jia , Yang Qun
Published: January 2023

Emotions affects moral judgements, and controlled cognitive processes regulate those emotional responses during moral decision making. However, the neurobiological basis of this interaction is unclear. We used a graph theory measurement called participation coefficient (‘PC’) to quantify the resting‐state functional connectivity within and between four meta‐analytic groupings (MAGs) associated with emotion generation and regulation, to test whether that measurement predicts individual differences in moral foundations‐based values. We found that the PC of one of the MAGs (MAG2) was positively correlated with one of the five recognized moral foundations–the one based on harm avoidance. We also found that increased inter‐module connectivity between the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and middle temporal gyrus with other nodes in the four MAGs was likewise associated with higher endorsement of the Harm foundation. These results suggest that individuals' sensitivity to harm is associated with functional integration of large‐scale brain networks of emotional regulation. These findings add to our knowledge of how individual variations in our moral values could be reflected by intrinsic brain network organization and deepen our understanding of the relationship between emotion and cognition during evaluations of moral values.