bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of age, sex and cytochrome P450 genotype on quetiapine and N‐desalkylquetiapine serum concentrations: A study based on real‐world data from 8118 patients
Authors: Solhaug Vigdis , Tveito Marit , Waade Ragnhild Birkeland , Høiseth Gudrun , Molden Espen , Smith Robert Løvsletten
Published: July 2023

Aims

To investigate the effect of aging, sex and cytochrome P450 (CYP) genotypes on the exposure of quetiapine (QUE) and the pharmacologically active metabolite N‐desalkylquetiapine (NDQ).

Methods

Patients with serum concentrations of QUE and NDQ were included retrospectively from a therapeutic drug monitoring service. The outcome measures were concentration:dose (C:D) ratios of QUE and NDQ, and NDQ:QUE metabolic ratio. Linear mixed model analyses were used to evaluate the effects of age, sex and, subsequently, CYP2D6/3A genotypes.

Results

The average age of the included population (n = 8118 patients) was 44 years (13.5% ≥65 years). The C:D ratio of QUE and NDQ gradually increased in patients aged >50 years compared to those aged 18–30 years, with 28 and 29% increase, respectively, for patients aged >70 years (P < .001). Compared to males, females had 15% lower QUE C:D ratio and 10% higher C:D ratio of NDQ (both P < .001). The NDQ:QUE metabolic ratio was 30% higher in females than in males (P < .001). For females ≥65 years, the NDQ C:D ratio was 36% higher compared to males <65 years (P < .001). A significantly higher NDQ C:D ratio was observed for CYP2D6 intermediate (+7%, P = .012) and poor (+17%, P = .001) compared to normal metabolizers. No effects of CYP3A4*22 and CYP3A5*1 allele variants were observed.

Conclusion

This study shows an increase of the QUE and NDQ exposures during aging. Old age, female sex and CYP2D6 allele variants encoding reduced activity are factors associated with high NDQ exposure. Therefore, females ≥65 years carrying CYP2D6 allele variants encoding reduced activity have the highest risk of dose‐dependent side effects of NDQ during QUE treatment.
The prospects of poop: a review of past achievements and future possibilities in faecal isotope analysis
Authors: Reid Rachel E. B. , Crowley Brooke Erin , Haupt Ryan J.
Published: July 2023

What can the stable isotope values of human and animal faeces tell us? This often under‐appreciated waste product is gaining recognition across a variety of disciplines. Faecal isotopes provide a means of monitoring diet, resource partitioning, landscape use, tracking nutrient inputs and cycling, and reconstructing past climate and environment. Here, we review what faeces are composed of, their temporal resolution, and how these factors may be impacted by digestive physiology and efficiency. As faeces are often used to explore diet, we clarify how isotopic offsets between diet and faeces can be calculated, as well as some differences among commonly used calculations that can lead to confusion. Generally, faecal carbon isotope (δ13C) values are lower than those of the diet, while faecal nitrogen isotope values (δ15N) values are higher than in the diet. However, there is considerable variability both within and among species. We explore the role of study design and how limitations stemming from a variety of factors can affect both the reliability and interpretability of faecal isotope data sets. Finally, we summarise the various ways in which faecal isotopes have been applied to date and provide some suggestions for future research. Despite remaining challenges, faecal isotope data are poised to continue to contribute meaningfully to a variety of fields.
Undoing a co‐operative bargain: The origins and dissolution of federal accommodation of provincial credit unions
Authors: Pigeon Marc‐André
Published: July 2023

The failure of several U.S. regional banks early in 2023 underlined Canada's reputation as home to a resilient banking sector where federal policymakers guard their jurisdictional responsibility over banking against populist impulses and trade off competition for financial stability. This article argues that conventional explanations for this observed stability are incomplete because they omit any discussion of federal policies that shaped the growth of a $550 billion provincially based credit union system. This article reconciles the resulting puzzle by showing how policymakers accommodated credit unions and used them to channel populist impulses but within the bounds of over‐arching financial stability concerns.
Interferon‐expressing oncolytic adenovirus + chemoradiation inhibited pancreatic cancer growth in a hamster model
Authors: Shinoda Shuhei , Sharma Nikita S. , Nakamura Naohiko , Inoko Kazuho , Sato‐Dahlman Mizuho , Murugan Paari , Davydova Julia , Yamamoto Masato
Published: July 2023

Past clinical trials of adjuvant therapy combined with interferon (IFN) alpha, fluorouracil, cisplatin, and radiation improved the 5‐year survival rate of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, these trials also revealed the disadvantages of the systemic toxicity of IFN and insufficient delivery of IFN. To improve efficacy and tolerability, we have developed an oncolytic adenovirus‐expressing IFN (IFN‐OAd). Here, we evaluated IFN‐OAd in combination with chemotherapy (gemcitabine + nab‐paclitaxel) + radiation. Combination index (CI) analysis showed that IFN‐OAd + chemotherapy + radiation was synergistic (CI <1). Notably, IFN‐OAd + chemotherapy + radiation remarkably suppressed tumor growth and induced a higher number of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes without severe side toxic effects in an immunocompetent and adenovirus replication‐permissive hamster PDAC model. This is the first study to report that gemcitabine + nab‐paclitaxel, the current first‐line chemotherapy for PDAC, did not hamper virus replication in a replication‐permissive immunocompetent model. IFN‐OAd has the potential to overcome the barriers to clinical application of IFN‐based therapy through its tumor‐specific expression of IFN, induction of antitumor immunity, and sensitization with chemoradiation. Combining IFN‐OAd with gemcitabine + nab‐paclitaxel + radiation might be an effective and clinically beneficial treatment for PDAC patients.
Alzheimer's disease diagnostic accuracy by fluid and neuroimaging ATN framework
Authors: Xiong Xi , He Haijun , Ye Qianqian , Qian Shuangjie , Zhou Shuoting , Feng Feifei , Fang Evandro F. , Xie Chenglong
Published: July 2023

Objectives

The ATN's different modalities (fluids and neuroimaging) for each of the Aβ (A), tau (T), and neurodegeneration (N) elements are used for the biological diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We aim to identify which ATN category achieves the highest potential for diagnosis and predictive accuracy of longitudinal cognitive decline.

Methods

Based on the availability of plasma ATN biomarkers (plasma‐derived Aβ42/40, p‐tau181, NFL, respectively), CSF ATN biomarkers (CSF‐derived Aβ42/Aβ40, p‐tau181, NFL), and neuroimaging ATN biomarkers (18F‐florbetapir (FBP) amyloid‐PET, 18F‐flortaucipir (FTP) tau‐PET, and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)‐PET), a total of 2340 participants were selected from ADNI.

Results

Our data analysis indicates that the area under curves (AUCs) of CSF‐A, neuroimaging‐T, and neuroimaging‐N were ranked the top three ATN candidates for accurate diagnosis of AD. Moreover, neuroimaging ATN biomarkers display the best predictive ability for longitudinal cognitive decline among the three categories. To note, neuroimaging‐T correlates well with cognitive performances in a negative correlation manner. Meanwhile, participants in the “N” element positive group, especially the CSF‐N positive group, experience the fastest cognitive decline compared with other groups defined by ATN biomarkers. In addition, the voxel‐wise analysis showed that CSF‐A related to tau accumulation and FDG–PET indexes more strongly in subjects with MCI stage. According to our analysis of the data, the best three ATN candidates for a precise diagnosis of AD are CSF‐A, neuroimaging‐T, and neuroimaging‐N.

Conclusions

Collectively, our findings suggest that plasma, CSF, and neuroimaging biomarkers differ considerably within the ATN framework; the most accurate target biomarkers for diagnosing AD were the CSF‐A, neuroimaging‐T, and neuroimaging‐N within each ATN modality. Moreover, neuroimaging‐T and CSF‐N both show excellent ability in the prediction of cognitive decline in two different dimensions.
Cognitive Load and Deception Detection Performance
Authors: Wielgopolan Adrianna , Imbir Kamil K.
Published: July 2023

The ability to detect deception is one of the most intriguing features of our minds. Cognitive load can surprisingly increase the accuracy of detection when there is a substantial load compared to when the detection is performed without cognitive load. This effect was tested in two experiments. In the first experiment, the participants were asked to watch truth/lie videos while completing a concurrent task (N‐back in a 3‐back version; intuitive processing), providing verbal reasoning after watching each video (deliberative processing), or watching the videos alone (control group). The cognitive load caused by the concurrent task led to a higher accuracy in deception detection compared to the other conditions. In the second experiment, we examined how this effect worked under various amounts of cognitive load. Participants watching truth/lie videos were assigned to one of three experimental conditions (N‐back in three versions: 1, 3, and 5‐back) or to a control group. The participants in the 3‐back and 5‐back conditions exhibited a significantly higher accuracy in deception detection than those in the 1‐back and control groups. Thus, the effect of increased accuracy in deception detection is due to cognitive load and is related to the amount of cognitive load present.
Educational Investment for Future Marriage? Evidence of Missing Girls from China
Authors: Cheng Yawen , Kong Dongmin
Published: July 2023

Numerous studies have shown that a sex ratio imbalance (more boys than girls in a society) may result in a sequence of social problems. This study investigated the expected effect of a high sex ratio on educational investment. Using nationally representative data from the China Family Panel Studies and the 2010 Census, we determined the following: (i) a high sex ratio increased educational expenditure for boys relative to girls; (ii) parents who took education seriously and who cared about their children's education were more likely to invest in education to appear attractive in the future marriage market, and (iii) the profound impact of a high sex ratio on educational expenditure was more pronounced in less educated and poorer families. Our findings raised the possibility that the effect of the sex ratio may bring about more gender inequality in the future. The implicit cost of a high sex ratio may further lead to a vicious cycle of family fertility and childbearing.
Disseminating action‐based cognitive remediation to an early psychosis network: Clinician perspectives on feasibility and implementation barriers
Authors: Wood‐Ross Chelsea , Milanovic Melissa , Vanrooy Tammy , Bromley Sarah , Bowie Christopher R.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Action‐based cognitive remediation (ABCR) is a group cognitive remediation treatment that aims to improve neurocognitive impairments experienced in patients with severe mental illness. Developed in research settings, ABCR is not yet widely available in community settings. As such, this study examines the feasibility of implementing ABCR in community clinics in an early psychosis network.

Methods

Eighty‐five allied health professionals who work within an early psychosis intervention network were trained in the provision of ABCR. They were surveyed 6‐months after training to gather information regarding their experience implementing ABCR within their clinical settings (e.g., barriers, perceived helpfulness of the treatment, modifications made to the manualized treatment). Access to ongoing training supports (e.g., treatment manual, asynchronous digital communication, conference calls) was also assessed.

Results

Fifty‐one clinicians responded to the survey. Staff time, manager support, and equipment were rated as organizational barriers. Geographic location, other responsibilities, and motivation were rated as patient barriers. Over half of the sample modified the overall dose of ABCR to offer fewer sessions and/or shorter duration of sessions than the manualized approach. Clinicians that reduced the dose of ABCR reported significantly higher barriers with manager support than staff who delivered ABCR as manualized but did not report worse patient outcomes. We found asynchronous learning opportunities (i.e., manual, online discussion forum) were perceived as the most accessible and helpful methods of ongoing training support.

Conclusions

The results provide preliminary information about barriers to implementing time‐intensive cognitive treatments into clinical settings and may inform future training practices to increase successful implementation of cognitive remediation treatments.
Stigma towards mental illness, resilience, and help‐seeking behaviours in undergraduate students in Hong Kong
Authors: Sum Min Yi , Chan Sherry Kit Wa , Tsui Harry Kan Hung , Wong Gloria Hoi Yan
Published: July 2023

Aim

Early interventions have great impact on reducing burden of mental illness. Young people are however the least likely to seek help for psychological issues. Resilience and stigma towards mental illness have been identified as contributing factors, although previous findings were mixed with potentially complex interaction with symptom severity. We investigated the relationship between stigma, resilience, depressive symptom severity, and help‐seeking behaviours in undergraduate students in Hong Kong.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted among undergraduates from a university in Hong Kong (n = 945). The 21‐item Stigma and Acceptance Scale, Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 were used. History of help‐seeking for psychological issues was self‐reported. Path analysis was conducted to test a conceptual model of their relationships.

Results

Among those with moderate‐to‐severe depressive symptoms (39.5%), only one‐fourth had sought professional help. The path model showed that depressive symptom severity and stigma were positively associated with help‐seeking behaviours, while resilience was negatively associated with help‐seeking behaviours independently (all p < .001). Subgroup analyses showed differential contribution of stigma and resilience to a history of help‐seeking in those with minimal‐to‐mild symptoms compared with moderate‐to‐severe symptoms.

Conclusions

Stigma may be a barrier for help‐seeking particularly in students with moderate‐to‐severe depression. Higher levels of resilience in young people may be protective and reduce the unnecessary seeking of professional help. Therefore, enhancing resilience among students in general, and reducing stigma and promoting help‐seeking behaviours for those who have moderate‐to‐severe symptoms should be consider in parallel as strategies to enhance mental wellbeing of students.
Structure–function analysis of bacterial GH31 α‐galactosidases specific for α‐(1→4)‐galactobiose
Authors: Ikegaya Marina , Park Enoch Y. , Miyazaki Takatsugu
Published: July 2023

Glycoside hydrolase family 31 (GH31) contains α‐glycoside hydrolases with different substrate specificities involved in various physiological functions. This family has recently been classified into 20 subfamilies using sequence similarity networks. An α‐galactosidase from the gut bacterium Bacteroides salyersiae (BsGH31_19, which belongs to GH31 subfamily 19) was reported to have hydrolytic activity against the synthetic substrate p‐ nitrophenyl α‐galactopyranoside, but its natural substrate remained unknown. BsGH31_19 shares low sequence identity (around 20%) with other reported GH31 α‐galactosidases, PsGal31A from Pseudopedobacter saltans and human myogenesis‐regulating glycosidase (MYORG), and was expected to have distinct specificity. Here, we characterized BsGH31_19 and its ortholog from a soil Bacteroidota bacterium, Flavihumibacter petaseus (FpGH31_19), and demonstrated that they showed high substrate specificity against α‐(1→4)‐linkages in α‐(1→4)‐galactobiose and globotriose [α‐Gal‐(1→4)‐β‐Gal‐(1→4)‐Glc], unlike PsGal31A and MYORG. The crystallographic analyses of BsGH31_19 and FpGH31_19 showed that their overall structures resemble those of MYORG and form a dimer with an interface different from that of PsGal31A and MYORG dimers. The structures of FpGH31_19 complexed with d‐galactose and α‐(1→4)‐galactobiose revealed that amino acid residues that recognize a galactose residue at subsite +1 are not conserved between FpGH31_19 and BsGH31_19. The tryptophan (Trp153) that recognizes galactose at subsite −1 is homologous to the tryptophan residues in MYORG and α‐galactosidases belonging to GH27, GH36, and GH97, but not in the bacterial GH31 member PsGal31A. Our results provide structural insights into molecular diversity and evolutionary relationships in the GH31 α‐galactosidase subfamilies and the other α‐galactosidase families.
The effects of evidence‐based nursing interventions on pressure ulcers in patients with stroke: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Gao Ming‐Ming , Wang Li‐Ping , Zhang Li‐Li , Li Yao‐Yao
Published: July 2023

This meta‐analysis evaluated the role of evidence‐based nursing interventions in preventing pressure ulcers in patients with stroke. Computer systems were used to retrieve randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on evidence‐based nursing interventions for patients with stroke and comorbid pressure ulcers from PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and Wanfang Data from database inception until April 2023. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted the data and evaluated the quality of the included studies according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. RevMan 5.4 software was used for the meta‐analysis. A total of 23 articles with results on 2035 patients were included, with 1015 patients in the evidence‐based nursing group and 1020 patients in the routine nursing group. The meta‐analysis results showed that evidence‐based nursing interventions significantly reduced the incidence of pressure ulcers in patients with stroke (5.22% vs. 22.84%, odds ratio [OR]: 0.18, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.13–0.24, p < 0.001), delayed the onset of pressure ulcers (standardised mean difference [SMD]: 3.41, 95% CI: 1.40–5.42, p < 0.001) and improved patient quality of life (SMD: 2.95, 95% CI: 2.35–3.56, p < 0.001). Evidence‐based nursing interventions are effective at preventing pressure ulcers in patients with stroke, delaying the onset of pressure ulcers and improving their quality of life. Evidence‐based nursing should be promoted for patients with stroke. However, owing to differences in sample size between studies and the methodological inadequacies of some studies, these results should be verified by large, high‐quality RCTs.
Effect of cell pressure on the electrochemical performance of all‐solid‐state lithium batteries with zero‐excess Li metal anode
Authors: Park Young Seon , Kim Kangsanin , Lee Jong‐Won , Moon Ji‐Woong , Park Hyung‐Ho , Hwang Haejin
Published: July 2023

All‐solid‐state cells (ASSCs) typically operate at a specific pressure to ensure good contact between the solid electrolyte and the electrode‐active materials. However, establishing the ideal cell pressure is challenging because of the various cell structures, the mechanical characteristics of solid electrolytes, and the extent to which the volume of the electrodes changes during cycling. In this study, we propose a specially designed cell assembly that adjusts to the changes in volume that occur during cycling while maintaining a constant cell pressure. The evaluations indicate that the spring in the cell assembly effectively reduces the stress incurred from the volume expansion that occurs in the electrode during charging (lithiation) and the volume contraction that occurs during discharging (delithiation) while maintaining the prescribed cell pressure. The capacity fading—as a function of the cycle number—decreases when operating ASSCs comprising a cell assembly that include a spring, compared with those that exclude a spring. Focused ion beam–scanning electron microscope reveals no cracks and delamination in the LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O3 (NCM811) composite cathode of the ASSCs, operated at 25 MPa, with a spring‐equipped assembly. The Ag nanolayer that deposits on the Cu foil is an effective collector metal, forming a dense lithium plating layer on the Ag/Cu foil anode.
Dyadic psycho‐social interventions for stroke survivors and family caregivers: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang Xin‐Yue , Sha Kai‐Hui , Ma Xue‐Ying , Li Xue‐Mei , Zhang Ming‐Hui
Published: July 2023

Aims and Objectives

To describe dyadic psycho‐social intervention measures and to evaluate their influence on stroke survivors and caregiver's functional independence, quality of life, depression, anxiety, self‐efficacy and coping ability.

Background

Because of the importance of dyadic intervention and the seriousness of the psycho‐social problems of stroke survivors and caregivers, understanding the influence of dyadic psycho‐social interventions is vital.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis based on PRISMA guidelines.

Data Sources

Nine databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials submitted from 1910 to 4 July 2022.

Methods

The included papers were evaluated for quality, and quantitative data were standardly extracted and analysed by meta‐analysis, followed by synthesis. The meta‐analysis was carried out using Review Manager 5.4 software.

Results

Fifteen randomized controlled trials were included (n = 2190 for patients, and n = 1933 for caregivers). Study results showed that dyadic psycho‐social interventions significantly alleviated the depressive symptoms of patients, obviously improved the ability to function independently of patients and more quickly alleviated the care burden of caregivers.

Conclusions

This study provided moderate support for the benefits of dyadic psycho‐social intervention in improving survivor and caregiver's functional independence, quality of life, depression, anxiety, self‐efficacy and care burden. Nevertheless, due to limitations of the study, it was deemed necessary that this topic is studied further.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This review suggests that dyadic psycho‐social interventions should be considered as effective strategies for decreasing psycho‐social problems of stroke survivors and caregivers, and provides evidence for the formulation of targeted intervention programs. The personalized implementation of such interventions should be the focus of clinical practice.

No Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public contribution.
Molecular profiling of gingival crevicular fluid fails to distinguish between infrabony and suprabony periodontal defects
Authors: Santamaria Pasquale , Sari Aysegul , Nibali Luigi
Published: July 2023

Aim

To assess the differential molecular profiling of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from infrabony and suprabony periodontal defects compared with healthy sites.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐five samples from 25 patients with untreated periodontitis stage III–IV were included. Clinical and radiological parameters as well as GCF samples were collected from an infrabony defect, a suprabony defect and a periodontally healthy site per patient. A multiplex bead immunoassay was performed to assess the level of 18 biomarkers associated with inflammation, connective tissue degradation and regeneration/repair.

Results

GCF volume was higher in periodontal sites compared with healthy sites, with no significant difference between infrabony and suprabony defects. Fourteen biomarkers were elevated in infrabony and suprabony sites compared with healthy sites (p < .05). Only interleukin‐1α levels were increased in infrabony compared with suprabony sites, whereas there was no difference in probing pocket depth.

Conclusions

Although the GCF molecular profile clearly differentiates periodontally affected sites from healthy sites, the different architecture between infrabony and suprabony defects is not reflected in GCF biomarker changes.
Evaluating the pragmatic characteristics of advance care planning outcome measures in dementia clinical trials: A scoping review
Authors: Gabbard Jennifer L. , Carpenter Joan G. , Ernecoff Natalie C. , Mournighan Kimberly , Cornea Isabella , McKone Mark , Hanson Laura C.
Published: July 2023

Background

Advance care planning (ACP) is a process that involves discussing a person's goals, values, and preferences; it is particularly important for persons living with dementia (PLWD) given that dementia is incurable and progressive. To ensure results that will impact real‐world practices, ACP outcome measures must be psychometrically strong, meaningful to key partners, and pragmatic to collect. Therefore, we conducted a scoping review of outcome measures utilized in ACP randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) enrolling PLWD or their care partners and evaluated their pragmatic characteristics.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science for peer‐reviewed ACP RCTs enrolling PLWD or their care partners from 2011 to 2021. We abstracted characteristics of primary and secondary outcome measures, including pragmatic characteristics using an adapted Psychometric and Pragmatic Evidence Rating Scale and ACP outcome domains using the standardized ACP Outcome Framework (i.e., process, action, healthcare, or quality of care).

Results

We included 21 ACP RCTs. Trials included 103 outcome measures (39 primary and 64 secondary), of which 11% measured process, 14% measured action, 49% measured healthcare, and 26% measured quality of care. Twenty‐four (23%) outcome measures were highly pragmatic, the majority of which (67%) reflected healthcare outcome measures. Sixty‐one (59%) outcomes were assessed as highly relevant to PLWD or their care partners. Only 20% (n = 21) of outcome measures were embedded into clinical practice. Most (62%) RCTs were conducted in nursing homes, and 33% were focused PLWD with advanced stage disease.

Conclusions

In RCTs testing ACP interventions to support PLWD, only 23% of outcome measures were highly pragmatic, and most of these measured healthcare utilizations. Outcome assessments were rarely integrated into the EHR during routine clinical care. New outcome measures that address the lived experience of PLWD and their care partners plus have high pragmatic characteristics are needed for embedded pragmatic clinical trials.
Initial retention force of three attachment systems for implant retained‐mandibular overdentures: An in vitro study
Authors: Wakam Raphael , Mawussi Kwamivi B. , Benoit Aurélie , Gorin Caroline
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the initial retention force of three resilient unsplinted attachment systems for implant‐retained mandibular overdentures: two cylindrical attachment systems (Locator R‐Tx® and Novaloc®), and one ball attachment system (Ball System).

Materials and Methods

For each attachment system, initial retention is measured as the average of the maximal dislodging forces during 10 insertion‐removal cycles. For the Ball System, three activation degrees of the matrix are included versus four and six color‐coded retention devices for the Locator R‐Tx® and the Novaloc®, respectively, to represent the complete regular retention devices panel. For each retention device or activation degree, eight samples are tested.

Results

The initial retention range is similar between the Ball System (7.7 ± 3.4 N – 19.9 ± 4.6 N) and the Novaloc® (2.0 ± 0.5 N – 18.9 ± 1.4 N) and broader for the Locator R‐Tx® (3.3 ± 5.0 N – 60.2 ± 6.0 N). In each attachment system, the initial retention of each retention device is significantly different from the others, except for the two most retentive Novaloc® ones. Retention devices were also classified according to their initial retention (low, medium, and maximum). In each retention group, the Novaloc® and the Ball System provided similar retention values lower than the Locator R‐Tx®.

Conclusion

Most of the retention devices tested provided an initial retention force of over 5 N for all three attachment systems. The Locator R‐Tx® had the most comprehensive range, and the Novaloc® seemed to provide the most reproducible values, unlike the Ball System due to the activation required by the operator.
ADHD, chronotype, and circadian preference in a multi‐site sample of college students
Authors: Becker Stephen P. , Luebbe Aaron M. , Kofler Michael J. , Burns G. Leonard , Jarrett Matthew A.
Published: July 2023

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and an evening chronotype are both common among college students, and there is growing interest in understanding the possible link between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and circadian function. However, mixed findings have been reported, and many of the existing studies have used small samples that were unable to examine chronotype across attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder presentations. Participants were 4751 students (73% female; 80% White), aged 18–29 years (M = 19.28, SD = 1.50), from five universities who completed measures assessing attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depressive and anxiety symptoms, as well as the Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire to assess chronotype (categorical) and circadian preference (dimensional). Participants with either attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder predominantly inattentive presentation or attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder combined presentation had higher rates of being an evening type (47.2% and 41.5%, respectively) than participants without elevated attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (28.5%), and participants with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder predominantly inattentive presentation also had higher rates of being an evening type than participants with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder predominantly hyperactive–impulsive presentation (30.7%). Dimensional analyses indicated that attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder inattentive symptoms were more strongly associated than hyperactive–impulsive symptoms with eveningness preference. Finally, greater eveningness preference strengthened the association between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder inattention and depressive symptoms but not anxiety symptoms. This is the largest study to document that college students with elevated attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms are more likely to be evening types than other college students, and inattentive symptoms in particular are associated with later circadian preference.
A qualitative study of public health nurses' perspectives and experiences on nutritional guidance for parents of infants and toddlers
Authors: Helle Christine , Hillesund Elisabet R. , Øverby Nina Cecilie
Published: July 2023

In Norway, public health nurses (PHNs) are responsible for giving parents nutritional knowledge, but limited research describes how they perceive this task. This study explores PHNs' perceptions and experiences on nutritional guidance for parents of infants and toddlers. Semistructured interviews with six PHNs were conducted and transcribed verbatim. Data were subjected to thematic analysis. Five main themes were identified: (1) Dietary guidance for parents is central to the work; (2) PHNs perceive they have parents' trust, and parents are in general open to nutrition counselling; (3) food and meals must be seen in light of the family context; (4) The dialogue must be adapted to the individual family; and (5) PHNs have expertise on nutrition; however, updating knowledge is difficult. Nutritional guidance was perceived by PHNs as a core activity. They felt that they had parents' trust, and that parents were particularly open to nutritional guidance during the first 2 years. Counselling was generally well received, but conversations on overweight were perceived as difficult. PHNs strove to tailor their guidance to individual needs. However, providing guidance on a wide range of issues in different families and cultures could be challenging. They acknowledged a need for updating knowledge but the offer of courses was sparse. Our findings suggest a discrepancy between how nutrition is prioritized in the education of PHNs and what they encounter in clinical practice. In the future, this should be given more attention given the PHNs' unique position to promote healthy eating and long‐term health.
Minimizing error in estimates of the effect of interventions by accounting for baseline measurements: A simulation study analyzing effects on child growth
Authors: Deichsel Emily L. , Tickell Kirkby D. , Rogawski McQuade Elizabeth T.
Published: July 2023

Interventions to reduce childhood stunting burden require clinical trials with a primary outcome of linear growth. When growth is measured longitudinally, there are several options for including baseline measurements in the analysis. This study compares the performance of several methods. Randomized controlled trials evaluating a hypothetical intervention to improve length‐for‐age z‐score (LAZ) from birth through 24 months of age were simulated. The intervention effect was evaluated using linear regression and five methods for handling baseline measurements: comparing final measurements only (FINAL), comparing final measurement adjusted for baseline (ADJUST), comparing the change in the measurement over time (DELTA), adjusting for baseline when comparing the changes over time (DELTA+ADJUST) and adjusting for baseline in two‐step residuals approach (RESIDUALS). We calculated bias, precision and power of each method for scenarios with and without a baseline imbalance in LAZ. Using a 0.15 effect size at 18 months, FINAL and DELTA required 1200 and 1500 enroled participants, respectively, to reach 80% power, whereas ADJUST, DELTA+ADJUST and RESIDUALS only required 900 participants. The adjusted models also produced unbiased estimates when there was a baseline imbalance, whereas the FINAL and DELTA methods produced biased estimates, as large as 0.07 lower and higher, respectively, than the true effect. Adjusted methods required smaller sample size and produced more precise results than both DELTA and FINAL methods in all test scenarios. If randomization fails, and there is an imbalance in LAZ at baseline, DELTA and FINAL methods can produce biased estimates, but adjusted models remain unbiased. These results warn against using the FINAL or DELTA methods.
A Letter that Killeth: Gregory of Nyssa on How (Not) to Read Scripture, Platonically
Authors: KATSOS ISIDOROS C.
Published: July 2023

In this essay, I explore the emergence of multicolumn Bibles in late antiquity, with a particular emphasis on Origen's Hexapla and its use by Gregory of Nyssa. I contextualise Gregory's use of multicolumn Bibles within the Origenian tradition and show that, in this intellectual context, multicolumn Bibles functioned as hermeneutical rather than text‐critical devices. I argue that the best explanation for Gregory's use of multicolumn Bibles comes from the hermeneutical theory of the Phaedrus as it was developed in later Neoplatonism. I demonstrate how the adaptation of the Phaedrus‐hermeneutics to Scripture can animate the biblical text, revealing hidden elements of discursiveness in it. I conclude by arguing that the Christian adaptation of the Phaedrus, as exemplified by Gregory, is distinguished by originality from Neoplatonic hermeneutics. My argument shows that in Origen and his school the use of multicolumn Bibles should not be theorised in terms of ‘exegetical maximalism’ but in terms of ‘dialectical hermeneutics’. The difference between the two approaches lies in the shift between modern and late ancient approaches to text and Scripture: while modernity is characterised by the pursuit of the authentic text, Origen's literary world is characterised by textual plurality, orality, and vocality. As a result, while the modern reader expects to find the meaning of Scripture in the text, the Origenian reader expected to find the meaning of Scripture in the discourse that lies latent in between the text.
What constitutes philosophical activity in nursing? Toward a definition of nursing philosophy based on an interpretive synthesis of the recent literature
Authors: Sharifi‐Heris Zahra , Bender Miriam
Published: July 2023

Nursing claims a significant history of engaging philosophical inquiry. To better understand the rationale for this engagement, and what nursing understands itself to achieve through philosophical inquiry, we conducted an interpretive synthesis of the recent nursing literature to identify what nurses are doing when they say they are doing philosophy. The overarching finding was that while vanishingly few articles articulated any definition of philosophy, the synthesis showed how nursing considers philosophical engagement a generative mode for asking and answering questions in/for nursing. Whatever aspects of nursing were focused on in these articles, and they were myriad, philosophy was invoked as an appropriate modality to work through that aspect rigorously, critically, and with an expectation that something “knowledgeable” would result from the effort. Based on the synthesis, we conclude that nursing philosophy could be considered a specific modality of nursing practice by which nursing is both done and delineated, a discursive practice in which we continually assess and explore and adapt and advance our understanding of the discipline in service to advancing our unique efficacy. This definition of “nursing philosophy” provides an opening for further inquiry helping to illuminate its functionalities and potentialities for outputs that can facilitate rigorous practice, education, and scholarship.
Small genome size and variation in ploidy levels support the naturalization of vascular plants but constrain their invasive spread
Authors: Pyšek Petr , Lučanová Magdalena , Dawson Wayne , Essl Franz , Kreft Holger , Leitch Ilia J. , Lenzner Bernd , Meyerson Laura A. , Pergl Jan , van Kleunen Mark , Weigelt Patrick , Winter Marten , Guo Wen‐Yong
Published: July 2023

Karyological characteristics are among the traits underpinning the invasion success of vascular plants.

Using 11 049 species, we tested the effects of genome size and ploidy levels on plant naturalization (species forming self‐sustaining populations where they are not native) and invasion (naturalized species spreading rapidly and having environmental impact).

The probability that a species naturalized anywhere in the world decreased with increasing monoploid genome size (DNA content of a single chromosome set). Naturalized or invasive species with intermediate monoploid genomes were reported from many regions, but those with either small or large genomes occurred in fewer regions. By contrast, large holoploid genome sizes (DNA content of the unreplicated gametic nucleus) constrained naturalization but favoured invasion.

We suggest that a small genome is an advantage during naturalization, being linked to traits favouring adaptation to local conditions, but for invasive spread, traits associated with a large holoploid genome, where the impact of polyploidy may act, facilitate long‐distance dispersal and competition with other species.
Light‐driven redox biocatalysis on gram‐scale in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 via an in vivo cascade
Authors: Tüllinghoff Adrian , Djaya‐Mbissam Harcel , Toepel Jörg , Bühler Bruno
Published: July 2023

The photosynthetic light reaction in cyanobacteria constitutes a highly attractive tool for productive biocatalysis, as it can provide redox reactions with high‐energy reduction equivalents using sunlight and water as sources of energy and electrons, respectively. Here, we describe the first artificial light‐driven redox cascade in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 to convert cyclohexanone to the polymer building block 6‐hydroxyhexanoic acid (6‐HA). Co‐expression of a Baeyer‐Villiger monooxygenase (BVMO) and a lactonase, both from Acidovorax sp. CHX100, enabled this two‐step conversion with an activity of up to 63.1 ± 1.0 U/gCDW without accumulating inhibitory ε‐caprolactone. Thereby, one of the key limitations of biocatalytic reactions, that is, reactant inhibition or toxicity, was overcome. In 2 L stirred‐tank‐photobioreactors, the process could be stabilized for 48 h, forming 23.50 ± 0.84 mm (3.11 ± 0.12 g/L) 6‐HA. The high specificity enabling a product yield (YP/S) of 0.96 ± 0.01 mol/mol and the remarkable biocatalyst‐related yield of 3.71 ± 0.21 g6‐HA/gCDW illustrate the potential of producing this non‐toxic product in a synthetic cascade. The fine‐tuning of the energy burden on the catalyst was found to be crucial, which indicates a limitation by the metabolic capacity of the cells possibly being compromised by biocatalysis‐related reductant withdrawal. Intriguingly, energy balancing revealed that the biotransformation could tap surplus electrons derived from the photosynthetic light reaction and thereby relieve photosynthetic sink limitation. This study shows the feasibility of light‐driven biocatalytic cascade operation in cyanobacteria and highlights respective metabolic limitations and engineering targets to unleash the full potential of photosynthesis.
Is winter coming? Impact of the changing climate on plant responses to cold temperature
Authors: Larran Alvaro Santiago , Pajoro Alice , Qüesta Julia I.
Published: July 2023

Climate change is causing alterations in annual temperature regimes worldwide. Important aspects of this include the reduction of winter chilling temperatures as well as the occurrence of unpredicted frosts, both significantly affecting plant growth and yields. Recent studies advanced the knowledge of the mechanisms underlying cold responses and tolerance in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. However, how these cold‐responsive pathways will readjust to ongoing seasonal temperature variation caused by global warming remains an open question. In this review, we highlight the plant developmental programmes that depend on cold temperature. We focus on the molecular mechanisms that plants have evolved to adjust their development and stress responses upon exposure to cold. Covering both genetic and epigenetic aspects, we present the latest insights into how alternative splicing, noncoding RNAs and the formation of biomolecular condensates play key roles in the regulation of cold responses. We conclude by commenting on attractive targets to accelerate the breeding of increased cold tolerance, bringing up biotechnological tools that might assist in overcoming current limitations. Our aim is to guide the reflection on the current agricultural challenges imposed by a changing climate and to provide useful information for improving plant resilience to unpredictable cold regimes.
Ageing Happily in Ghana: How Does Social Inclusion Contribute?
Authors: Gyasi Razak M. , Hajek André , Asante Felix , Accam Burnett Tetteh , Osei‐Tutu Solomon , Rahmati Masoud , Hervie Vyda Mamley , Abass Kabila , Phillips David R.
Published: July 2023

Background

Promoting happiness has become increasingly important in old age for a wide range of reasons. In this study, we aim to examine the association between social inclusion (SI) and happiness among older adults in Ghana and identify the mediating factors.

Methods

The study included 1201 community‐dwelling adults aged ≥50 (mean age = 66.4 ± SD 11.9 years; 63.3% female) from the 2016–2018 Ageing, Health, Psychological Well‐being, and Health‐seeking Behaviour Study. We assessed happiness with a self‐rated and cross‐culturally validated item on a five‐point scale. SI was operationalised using the modified Berkman–Syme Social Network Index. The hypothesised associations were evaluated by hierarchical regressions and bootstrapping techniques from Hayes' PROCESS macro programme.

Results

The prevalence of happiness was 24.3% (all of the time), 43.6% (most of the time), 28.3% (little of the time), and 3.7% (none of the time). After controlling for potential confounders, higher SI was associated with increased levels of happiness (odds ratio (OR) = 1.36; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.16–2.51). Aside from family/friends contacts, all other SI domains positively influenced happiness (OR = 1.45–1.81). The link between SI and happiness was mediated by depressive symptoms (65.2%), generalised anxiety (30.1%), and sleep problems (9.5%).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that psychological factors may largely explain the positive SI‐happiness link. Efforts should target these factors to promote happiness in old age. Longitudinal analysis may confirm our findings.
Public spending, credit market conditions and economic activity in South Africa
Authors: Nuru Naser Yenus
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the effects of public spending shocks across South Africa's credit market conditions from 1965Q2 to 2022Q1 employing a Threshold Vector Autoregression model. Credit conditions are approximated by credit growth. The empirical findings exhibit that the financial environment matters. More specifically, the output multipliers of 1 or 2 standard deviations of positive or negative shocks to public spending are less than unity but bigger when the credit market is in a tight condition. When we look at the public spending components, the output multipliers are more than unity for the public investment shocks in the tight credit condition but not for public consumption shocks. In terms of the output components, both private consumption and private investment multipliers are found to be small, though larger in the tight credit condition. Finally, while public spending shock causes an increase in private credit volume in tight credit conditions, it leads to a decline in private credit volume in easy credit conditions. These results are examined in terms of their policy recommendations.
Turkish adaptation of the mindful parenting inventories for parents and children
Authors: Acet Pinar , Oliver Bonamy R.
Published: July 2023

Mindful parenting is a burgeoning global research interest. This study adapted the existing 18‐item parallel mindful parenting inventories for parents and children (MPIP/MPIC) into Turkish, examining their psychometric properties and validation in 154 mothers living in Türkiye (Mage = 42.74 years, SDage = 5.06 years) and their typically developing children (n = 154, Mage = 13.19 years, SDage = 1.64 years). Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were performed to validate the existing factor structure of the MPIP/MPIC for the Turkish version. Multiple‐group CFA was used to test the measurement invariance between mothers and children. Pearson correlations and regression analyses were used to assess the validity of the MPIP/MPIC against established measures of mindfulness and positive parenting (testing convergent validity) and child behaviours (testing concurrent and predictive validity). CFA supported that the Turkish MPIP/MPIC structure was similar to that in the UK, consisting of four dimensions: Self‐Regulation in Parenting, Acceptance and Compassion towards Child, Being in the Moment with Child, and Awareness of Child, each with satisfactory internal consistency. Partial measurement invariance was found between parents and children, with mothers reporting somewhat higher scores for the Being in the Moment with Child and Awareness of Child than children. Overall, the convergent and concurrent validity of the Turkish MPIP/MPIC was supported. In addition, MPIP predicted mother‐reported child behaviours, and MPIC predicted child‐reported child behaviours over and above mothers’ dispositional mindfulness and positive parenting (predictive validity). The Turkish parallel MPIP/MPIC show promise for use with mothers in Türkiye and children to assess mindful parenting.