bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A retrospective analysis of disease epidemiology, comorbidities, treatment patterns, and healthcare resource utilization of alopecia areata in the United Arab Emirates using claims database
Authors: Hammadi Anwar Al , Parmar Nisha V. , Farghaly Mohamed , Dallal Sara Al , Zayed Mostafa Wagdy Abdullah , Ebeid Fadwa , Subramanyam Kumaresan , Ramachandrachar Badarinath Chickballapur , Ahmed Haytham Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune disorder that manifests as nonscarring hair loss and imposes a substantial disease burden. The current study, using an e‐claims database, assesses the disease burden, comorbidities, treatment patterns, specialties involved in the diagnosis of AA, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and associated costs in privately insured patients with AA in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The retrospective longitudinal secondary study was conducted using Dubai Real‐World Database e‐claims data during 01 January 2014 to 30 June 2022. Patients with at least one diagnosis claim of AA during the index period (01 January 2015–30 June 2021) with continuous enrollment (one or more AA/non‐AA claim in the post‐index period) were included in the analysis. The patients were stratified into subcohorts based on diagnosis code and treatment patterns, as mild, moderate‐to‐severe, and others. Demographics, comorbidities, treatment patterns, specialists visited, and HCRU were assessed. The study included 11 851 patients with AA (mean age: mild: 37 years; moderate‐to‐severe: 36 years), with a male predominance (mild: 77.6%; moderate‐to‐severe: 60.8%). The most prevalent comorbidities in the moderate‐to‐severe AA subcohort were autoimmune and T‐helper 2–mediated immune disorders, including contact dermatitis and eczema (62.1%), atopic dermatitis (36.1%), and asthma (36.1%). Most patients consulted dermatologists for treatment advice (mild AA: 87.4%; moderate‐to‐severe AA: 47.7%) and, notably, within 1 day of AA diagnosis. Topical steroids were frequently prescribed across cohorts, regardless of disease severity. Analysis of comorbidities among patients with AA indicated an additional HCRU burden among these subsets of patients. The median disease‐specific HCRU cost was higher for psychological comorbidities versus autoimmune and T‐helper 2–mediated immune disorders (US $224.99 vs US $103.70). There is a substantial disease and economic burden in patients with AA and associated comorbid conditions; therefore, investing in novel therapies that target the underlying autoimmune pathway may address the gap in effective management of AA.
Leaf elemental composition of species growing on contrasting soils in two adjacent rainforests: Serpentinized ultramafic versus volcano‐sedimentary rock
Authors: Jaffré Tanguy , Isnard Sandrine , Ibanez Thomas
Published: July 2024

The flora of New Caledonia is renowned as one of the world's most significant biodiversity hotpots. The contrasting soil conditions that characterize this small archipelago profoundly influence species local diversity and distribution. Because the difference between soil chemistry is likely to cause variation in leaf elemental composition, we wanted to test how different soil properties affect plant community and leaf elemental concentration. We focused on two adjacent forests, of similar physiognomy, growing on serpentinite (ultramafic rock), and on volcano‐sedimentary rock. Both soils strongly differed in their pH, cation exchange capacity, and element concentration (Al, Mn, and Ni). The two adjacent forests have a diverse endemic flora and share a relatively high proportion of species (35%–42%). The tree composition differs more than the total vascular flora. Leaf element concentrations of 30 tree species that grow on both soil types, as well as the corresponding soil–plant‐available nutrients, were analyzed. Leaf element concentrations indicated N, P, K, and Ca deficiency. Despite higher plant‐available Mn concentration in ultramafic soil than volcano‐sedimentary soil, leaf Mn concentrations were significantly higher for plants growing on volcano‐sedimentary soil. Leaf Ni concentrations were higher on ultramafic soil and Al concentration was higher on volcano‐sedimentary soil. Major differences in leaf elemental concentration were for micronutrients (metals) while macronutrients varied in much lower proportion between the two soil types, suggesting a tight regulation of macronutrients compared to micronutrients.
The Affective Charge of Sulphur and Salt in Working with Compulsion
Authors: Giaccardi Giorgio
Published: July 2024

The author presents a long analysis of a patient, Giulia, whose obstinate will to achieve evokes the workings of alchemical sulphur at its fieriest and a dread of its coniunctio with alchemical salt. Jung's description of these symbols in Mysterium Coniunctionis offers a useful imaginal perspective to clinical work in the area of compulsion and its possible transformations.

Right from the start, the analytic relationship appeared to be mirrored and affected by this alchemical perspective. However, it was only after much time, uncertainty and emotional endurance that a fuller psychological experience of sulphur and salt could be accessed, allowing the analysis to take a more imaginative and mercurial turn.

In the course of his work with Giulia the author has witnessed and experienced a range of intense affects—the many colours that the combustion of sulphur can generate—whether on the verge of unstoppable creation or ruthless destruction, often of archetypal intensity. This experience has been lived through and has undergone a transformative relation with salt, which until then had lived a dissociated existence in the fixed trauma of the compulsion and in a nocturnal underworld of tears.
Long‐term trends in incidence and outcomes of rib fractures: A population‐based data linkage study from New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Salmon Eliot , Oliver Matthew , Bein Kendall , Berry Melanie , Partyka Christopher , Seimon Radhika , Singh Hardeep , Dinh Michael
Published: July 2024

Objective

Determine long‐term trends in population‐based incidence and outcomes of rib fracture hospitalisations.

Methods

This was a data linkage study of rib fracture cases identified between 2015 and 2022 in New South Wales, Australia. Routinely collected health data were linked between ED, admitted patient and death registry data collection. The primary outcomes were age‐specific incidence of rib fracture hospitalisation cases and risk‐adjusted 30 days mortality. Other outcomes of interest were hospital length of stay (LOS), admission rate and ICU admissions.

Results

A total of 70 609 cases were analysed. Overall, the number of rib fracture hospitalisations increased by 25% between 2015 and 2022. The highest proportion of cases was in the 45–65 years (28%) and 65–85 years (31%) age groups. On a per population basis, the incidence rate increased by 2% per annum. After adjusting for age, comorbidity and injury severity, there was no significant trend in 30 days mortality observed between 2015 and 2022. The median inpatient LOS was 4 days with 38% of patients staying 1–2 days. Regional and rural areas were associated with more severe chest injuries.

Conclusion

Rib fracture hospitalisations have increased with older patients driving this trend.
Productivity‐led Pathways to Sustainable Agricultural Growth: Six Decades of Progress
Authors: Jelliffe Jeremy , Fuglie Keith , Morgan Stephen
Published: July 2024

In recent decades, world agriculture has undergone a vast transformation. Between 1961 and 2020, global agricultural output increased nearly four‐fold while population grew 2.6 times, leading to a 53 per cent increase in output per capita. Real food prices declined, providing for more affordable and diverse diets. There was a pronounced and sustained shift in the location of production to the Global South (developing countries), which increased its share of global agricultural output from 44 to 73 per cent. Since the 1990s, increases in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP) has become the major driver of world agricultural output. However, insufficient productivity growth relative to demand has drawn more resources into agriculture. Globally, agricultural land area expanded 7.6 per cent between 1961 and 2020, although it contracted in the Global North (developed countries). In the EU, where agricultural output has remained relatively flat in recent decades, improvements in productivity reduced total inputs and environmental resources used by the sector. In contrast, in Canada‐United States, productivity growth enabled agricultural output to expand without increasing total inputs and environment resources. By the decade of the 2010s, however, the pace of output and productivity growth in world agriculture slowed, real food prices rose, the number of food insecure people increased, and pressure to expand the use of natural and environmental resources to produce food intensified.
Phagotrophy in the nitrogen‐fixing haptophyte Braarudosphaera bigelowii
Authors: Mak Esther Wing Kwan , Turk‐Kubo Kendra A. , Caron David A. , Harbeitner Rachel C. , Magasin Jonathan D. , Coale Tyler H. , Hagino Kyoko , Takano Yoshihito , Nishimura Tomohiro , Adachi Masao , Zehr Jonathan P.
Published: July 2024

Biological nitrogen fixation provides fixed nitrogen for microbes living in the oligotrophic open ocean. UCYN‐A2, the previously known symbiont of Braarudosphaera bigelowii, now believed to be an early‐stage B. bigelowii organelle that exchanges fixed nitrogen for fixed carbon, is globally distributed. Indirect evidence suggested that B. bigelowii might be a mixotrophic (phagotrophic) phototrophic flagellate. The goal of this study was to determine if B. bigelowii can graze on bacteria using several independent approaches. The results showed that B. bigelowii grazed on co‐occurring bacteria at a rate of 5–7 cells/h/B. bigelowii and that the overall grazing rate was significantly higher at nighttime than at daytime. Bacterial abundance changes, assessed with 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing analysis, may have indicated preferential grazing by B. bigelowii on specific bacterial genotypes. In addition, Lysotracker™ staining of B. bigelowii suggested digestive activity inside B. bigelowii. Carbon and nitrogen fixation measurements revealed that the carbon demand of B. bigelowii could not be fulfilled by photosynthesis alone, implying supplementation by heterotrophy. These independent lines of evidence together revealed that B. bigelowii engages in phagotrophy, which, beyond serving as a supplementary source of carbon and energy, may also facilitate the indirect assimilation of inorganic nutrients.
Clinical characteristics and prognosis of primary thymic adenocarcinoma: A single‐center retrospective analysis
Authors: Hong Qian , Han Rui , Chen Chen , Wang Fuquan , Zhang Sining , Zhao Chenguang , Li Fang , Mu Juwei , Li Jiagen
Published: July 2024

Background

Primary thymic adenocarcinoma (PTAC) is an extremely rare disease with a poor prognosis. In the present study, we sought to analyze the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of patients with PTAC.

Methods

A total of 14 patients with PTAC treated at our center from January 2000 to January 2019 were included in this study. We retrospectively collected information on sex, age, history of smoking, family history of cancer, comorbidities, symptoms, imaging tests, serum tumor marker levels, tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) staging, and treatment records. Follow‐up information was obtained by telephone interviews or outpatient clinic visit. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to investigate the clinicopathological factors associated with survival.

Results

Among 14 patients with PTAC, there were five males and nine females, with an average age of 48.7 ± 9.3 years. A total of 23.1% of the patients had a history of smoking. The clinical symptoms of the patients were nonspecific and seven patients had elevated levels of serum tumor markers. Surgery was performed for nine patients, among which only four received R0 resection. The median survival time of the 14 patients was 16.0 months, and the 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates were 57.1%, 35.7% and 21.4%, respectively. TNM stage was identified as an independent prognostic factor for PTAC patients (the median survival time of stage I–IIIA vs. stage IV was 44.0 months vs. 9.0 months, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

PTAC is highly aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis. Surgical treatment is feasible, but R0 resection is challenging. TNM staging is significantly associated with patient survival.
Benchmarking imputation methods for categorical biological data
Authors: Gendre Matthieu , Hauffe Torsten , Pimiento Catalina , Silvestro Daniele
Published: July 2024

Trait datasets are at the basis of a large share of ecology and evolutionary research, being used to infer ancestral morphologies, quantify species extinction risks, or evaluate the functional diversity of biological communities. These datasets, however, are often plagued by missing data, for instance, due to incomplete sampling, limited data and resource availability. Several imputation methods exist to predict missing values and recent studies have explored their performance for continuous traits in biological datasets. However, less is known about the accuracy of these methods for categorical traits.

Here we explore the performance of different imputation methods on categorical biological traits combining phylogenetic comparative methods, machine learning and deep learning models. To this end, we develop an open‐source R package, to impute trait data while integrating a simulation framework to evaluate their performance on synthetic datasets. We run a range of simulations under different missing rates, mechanisms, biases and evolutionary models.

We propose an integration between phylogenetic comparative methods and machine learning imputation, and an ensemble approach, in which selected imputation methods are combined. Our simulations show that this approach provides the most robust and accurate predictions. We applied our imputation pipeline to an incomplete trait dataset of 1015 elasmobranch species (i.e. sharks, rays and skates) and found a high imputation accuracy of the predictions based on an expert‐based assessment of the missing traits.

Overall, our R package facilitates the comparison of multiple imputation methods and allows robust predictions of missing trait values. Our study highlights the benefits of coupling phylogenetic evolutionary models with machine learning inference to augment incomplete biological datasets.
Female directors and cash holdings adjustment: Evidence from South Korea
Authors: Aier Jagadison K. , Jo Eun Hye , Lee Jung Wha (Jenny)
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates whether female board participation improves a firm's efforts to manage its cash holdings in Korea. We find that firms with female directors quickly adjust their cash holdings towards the target, particularly when they have excess cash, suggesting that female directors are more likely to respond to anticipated problems related to excess cash relative to liquidity problems that may arise on account of a cash shortage. Furthermore, the relationship between female directors and cash holding adjustment is stronger for non‐chaebol affiliates, female‐friendly companies, and non‐controversial business environments.
A meeting report from SEAIP‐2023: Priorities and strategies
Authors: Ting Rachel Sing‐Kiat , Lee Boon‐Ooi , Perez Maireen Joy N. , Muhiddin Syurawasti , Liem Andrian , Balmores‐Paulino Rozel , Cleofe Myreen P. , Gallardo Maria Theresa B. , Jones Liz
Published: July 2024

This report introduces the development of the Southeast Asian Indigenous Psychology (SEAIP) network and the outcomes of the SEAIP‐2023 conference. First, we summarize four priorities of SEAIP research that evolved throughout the years; next, we propose four action plans in translating our research into practice. Our report aims to inspire Asian psychologists, especially the younger generation of scholars, to join and contribute to the development of this network.
Real‐world comparative effectiveness of venetoclax‐obinutuzumab versus Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors for frontline chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Ghosh Nilanjan , Manzoor Beenish S. , Fakhri Bita , Emechebe Nnadozie , Alhasani Hasan , Skarbnik Alan , Jawaid Dureshahwar , Shadman Mazyar
Published: July 2024

Real‐world evidence comparing clinical outcomes between venetoclax and Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKis) in patients with frontline (1 L) chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is lacking. We compared treatment effectiveness of 1 L venetoclax plus obinutuzumab (VenO) versus BTKi‐based regimens. This retrospective observational study using Optum Clinformatics Data Mart® included adult patients with CLL (≥2 outpatient or ≥1 inpatient claim) who received VenO or BTKi‐based regimens in 1 L (1/2019–9/2022). Baseline characteristics were balanced using stabilised inverse probability weighting. Outcomes included duration of therapy (DoT), persistence, time to next treatment or death (TTNT‐D), and time off‐treatment. Among 1506 eligible patients (VenO: 203; BTKi: 1303), the median follow‐up duration was 12.6 (VenO) and 16.2 months (BTKi). Median DoT for VenO was 12.3 months; persistence remained higher in VenO versus BTKi through expected 1 L fixed treatment duration. Median TTNT‐D was not reached for VenO; however, more VenO‐ versus BTKi‐treated patients had not switched therapies/experienced death through Month 12 (87.1% vs. 75.3%). Among patients that discontinued, median time to discontinuation was 11.7 vs. 5.9 months for VenO versus BTKi and median time off‐treatment was 11.3 vs. 4.3 months. In this real‐world study, VenO was associated with better effectiveness outcomes than BTKi‐based regimens in 1 L CLL.
Reduced‐intensity conditioning with fludarabine/busulfan versus fludarabine/low‐dose melphalan in patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Kamijo Kimimori , Shimomura Yoshimitsu , Kim Sung‐Won , Ohigashi Hiroyuki , Ishikawa Jun , Eto Tetsuya , Hiramoto Nobuhiro , Mizuno Ishikazu , Iida Shinsuke , Ueda Yasunori , Matsuoka Ken‐ichi , Yakushijin Kimikazu , Mori Yasuo , Onizuka Makoto , Fukuda Takahiro , Atsuta Yoshiko , Kako Shinichi
Published: July 2024

Reduced‐intensity conditioning regimens are commonly used in allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL); however, the optimal regimen remains unknown. In this study, the outcomes of adult patients with NHL who received fludarabine plus reduced‐dose busulfan (6.4 mg/kg; Flu/Bu2) (n = 286) and fludarabine plus low‐dose melphalan (80 or 100 mg/m2; Flu/Mel80–100) (n = 283) between January 2009 and December 2020 were compared using Japanese registry data. The primary end‐point was the 5‐year overall survival (OS). The 5‐year OS was 53.8% (95% CI, 47.6–59.6) and 42.4% (95% CI, 35.6–49.0) in the Flu/Bu2 and Flu/Mel80–100 groups respectively (p = 0.030). After inverse probability of treatment weighting adjustment, the adjusted HR of Flu/Bu2 compared with Flu/Mel80–100 group for 5‐year OS was 0.77 (95% CI, 0.60–0.99, p = 0.046), 0.97 (95% CI, 0.78–1.21, p = 0.798) for 5‐year progression‐free survival, 0.65 (95% CI, 0.45–0.94, p = 0.022) for 5‐year cumulative risk of non‐relapse mortality and 1.25 (95% CI, 0.95–1.64, p = 0.115) for 5‐year cumulative risk of relapse. In this study, patients with NHL who received Flu/Bu2 were associated with better OS and lower non‐relapse mortality than those who received Flu/Mel80–100.
The carbon footprint of the perioperative transurethral resection of bladder tumour pathway
Authors: John Joseph B. , Collins Michael , Eames Sophie , O’Flynn Kieran , Briggs Tim W.R. , Gray William K. , McGrath John S.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the carbon footprint of the perioperative transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) pathway from decision to treat to postoperative discharge, and model potential greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction strategies.

Materials and Methods

This process‐based attributional cradle‐to‐grave life‐cycle assessment (LCA) of GHG emissions modelled the perioperative TURBT pathway at a hospital in Southwest England. We included travel, energy and water use, all reusable and consumable items, and laundry and equipment sterilisation. Resource use for 30 patients undergoing surgery was recorded to understand average GHG emissions and the inter‐case variability. Sensitivity analysis was performed for manufacturing location, pharmaceutical manufacturing carbon‐intensity, and theatre list utilisation.

Results

The median (interquartile range) perioperative TURBT carbon footprint was 131.8 (119.8–153.6) kg of carbon dioxide equivalent. Major pathway categories contributing to GHG emissions were surgical equipment (22.2%), travel (18.6%), gas and electricity (13.3%), and anaesthesia/drugs and associated adjuncts (27.0%), primarily due to consumable items and processes. Readily modifiable GHG emissions hotspots included patient travel for preoperative assessment, glove use, catheter use, irrigation delivery and extraction, and mitomycin C disposal. GHG emissions were higher for those admitted as inpatients after surgery.

Conclusions

This cradle‐to‐grave LCA found multiple modifiable GHG emissions hotspots. Key mitigation themes include minimising avoidable patient travel, rationalising equipment use, optimally filling operating theatre lists, and safely avoiding postoperative catheterisation and hospital admission where possible. A crucial next step is to design and deliver an implementation strategy for the environmentally sustainable changes demonstrated herein.
Exploring virtual museums: Pre‐service teachers' experiences of virtual museums in gifted and talented education
Authors: Kahveci Nihat Gurel
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to explore prospective teachers' views and experiences of the utilization of virtual museums for gifted and talented education. The study was conducted at the College of Education of a large Western University in Turkey. The participants were prospective teachers (seniors at the undergraduate level) from the Department of Gifted and Talented Teacher Education, who were expected to become classroom teachers responsible for teaching a wide range of subjects, including reading, mathematics, science, and social studies. Ten prospective teachers voluntarily participated in the study. The study employed a qualitative phenomenological design. The research illuminated the ways in which participants perceived and understood these experiences. This study provided valuable insights into the potential use of virtual museums in the education of gifted students, general education, and teacher education, and considered the positive and negative experiences of pre‐service teachers who have visited virtual museums.
Quantitative analyses of distribution of the heart rot fungus Serpula himantioides in living Chamaecyparis pisifera using real‐time polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Haraguchi Ryusei , Hirao Toshihide , Yamada Toshihiro
Published: July 2024

Serpula himantioides is a widely distributed wood rot fungus that causes heart rot in various tree species. In Japan, heart rot associated with S. himantioides occurs in Chamaecyparis pisifera; however, its distribution within living trees and changes in its abundance as decay progresses remain unclear. In this study, we used a real‐time polymerase chain reaction (real‐time PCR) assay to specifically detect and quantify S. himantioides in wood. This allowed us to determine the distribution of S. himantioides in living C. pisifera and to monitor changes in its abundance as decay progressed. In addition, the mode of decay progression was characterized using nonhierarchical clustering. Serpula himantioides was detected from both decayed and undecayed heartwood and at sites as high as 12 m in the trunk, suggesting that it was widely distributed in the heartwood. The clustering analysis grouped samples into three clusters corresponding to the incipient, intermediate and advanced stages of decay. The abundance of S. himantioides increased from the incipient stage to the intermediate stage of decay and decreased at the advanced stage. The results quantitatively showed that intermediate stage decay moved up the trunk and replaced the part corresponding to the incipient stage as decay progressed. These results will be useful for devising methods for the early detection of heart rot caused by S. himantioides and to understand the progress of decay caused by wood rot fungi in living trees.
Robustness assessment of an automated AI‐based white blood cell morphometric analysis system using different smear preparation methods
Authors: Ravzanaadii Mendamar , Horiuchi Yuki , Iwasaki Yosuke , Matsuzaki Akihiko , Kaniyu Kimiko , Bai Jing , Konishi Aya , Ando Jun , Ando Miki , Tabe Yoko
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Numerous AI‐based systems are being developed to evaluate peripheral blood (PB) smears, but the feasibility of these systems on different smear preparation methods has not been fully understood. In this study, we assessed the impact of different smear preparation methods on the robustness of the deep learning system (DLS).

Methods

We collected 193 PB samples from patients, preparing a pair of smears for each sample using two systems: (1) SP50 smears, prepared by the DLS recommended fully automated slide preparation with double fan drying and staining (May–Grunwald Giemsa, M–G) system using SP50 (Sysmex) and (2) SP1000i smears, prepared by automated smear preparation with single fan drying by SP1000i (Sysmex) and manually stained with M–G. Digital images of PB cells were captured using DI‐60 (Sysmex), and the DLS performed cell classification. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were used to evaluate the performance of the DLS.

Results

The specificity and NPV for all cell types were 97.4%–100% in both smear sets. The average sensitivity and PPV were 88.9% and 90.1% on SP50 smears, and 87.0% and 83.2% on SP1000i smears, respectively. The lower performance on SP1000i smears was attributed to the intra‐lineage misclassification of neutrophil precursors and inter‐lineage misclassification of lymphocytes.

Conclusion

The DLS demonstrated consistent performance in specificity and NPV for smears prepared by a system different from the recommended method. Our results suggest that applying an automated smear preparation system optimized for the DLS system may be important.
Scale for the environments evaluation of professional nursing practice—shortened version: Psychometric evaluation
Authors: Ribeiro Olga Maria Pimenta Lopes , de Lima Trindade Letícia , da Rocha Carla Gomes , Teles Paulo João Figueiredo Cabral , Mendes Mariana , Ribeiro Marlene Patrícia , de Abreu Pereira Soraia Cristina , da Conceição Alves Faria Ana , da Silva João Miguel Almeida Ventura , de Sousa Clemente Neves
Published: July 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to test the validity and reliability of the shortened version of the Scale for the Environments Evaluation of Professional Nursing Practice (SEE‐Nursing Practice).

Methods

This methodological, cross‐sectional study was conducted between September and December 2022. The original version of the SEE‐Nursing Practice was administered in questionnaire format across 17 hospitals. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to identify relevant items for the new shortened version of the scale and evaluate its construct validity.

Results

The study involved 1713 registered nurses from various regions of Portugal. From the exploratory factor analysis, the SEE‐Nursing Practice was condensed to 59 items and 3 subscales. In the structure subscale, 14 items were removed, and the remaining 29 items distributed over four factors; in the process subscale, 18 items were removed, and the remaining 19 items organized into three factors; in the outcome subscale, 2 items were removed, and the remaining 11 items distributed over two factors. The Cronbach's alpha for the three subscales exceeded 0.90, indicating high reliability. Confirmatory factor analyses provided support for the validity of the 59‐item model.

Conclusion

The shortened version of the SEE‐Nursing Practice shows adequate validity and reliability, reducing the burden associated with its longer version.
Sequencing situations with position‐dependent effects under cooperation
Authors: Saavedra‐Nieves A. , Mosquera M. A. , Fiestras‐Janeiro M. G.
Published: July 2024

This paper innovatively addresses the effect of cooperation on sequencing situations with position‐dependent effects. Specifically, we ensure the convexity of the associated sequencing games under the fulfillment of certain conditions related to the neighbor switching gains. Additionally, we propose two families of allocation rules based on sharing the neighbor switching gains under two distinct procedures, each providing a path from the initial order to an optimal order. From a theoretical point of view, an axiomatization of both families of allocations is provided, and their stability is also ensured under the conditions related to convexity.
Stable clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats‐based genome editing in Harmonia axyridis
Authors: Partosh Tamir , Davidovitz Michael , Firer Noa , Pines Gur
Published: July 2024

Harmonia axyridis (Pallas), commonly known as the Asian lady beetle, is a native insect species of Asia that has been intentionally introduced to various regions for biocontrol purposes. However, its widespread presence beyond its original release sites suggests a high degree of invasiveness. In this study, we utilized the CRISPR‐Cas9 approach to achieve precise genome editing in H. axyridis. Specifically, we targeted two genes in H. axyridis, laccase2 and scarlet, knockdown of which orthologues in other insects showed visible phenotypic changes. The knockout laccase2 resulted not only in an early‐detectable phenotype but also in lethality. However, we successfully established a viable and genetically stable mutant colony by disrupting the scarlet gene, resulting in beetles with white eyes. Our findings contribute to the expanding knowledge of genetic manipulation in H. axyridis and provide insights into its potential for future research and practical applications for biocontrol and invasive species management.
Gender, attachment, and demand/withdraw patterns in the context of moderate couple conflict in cisgender, heterosexual relationships
Authors: Seedall Ryan B.
Published: July 2024

A common pattern in couple relationships is demand/withdraw. Within this pattern, one partner seeks connection, change, and resolution of the issue, whereas the other seeks to end the discussion and limit closeness. We sought to further understand and update the literature by examining the relationship of gender and attachment (both self‐report and narrative discourse) with demand/withdraw behaviors during moderate couple conflict. Using data from 63 cisgender, heterosexual couples, we used the actor–partner interdependence model within multilevel modeling, to explore the research questions. Findings revealed that during the woman's issue, men were more likely to withdraw. During the man's issue, preoccupied attachment in either partner was associated with more demand and women higher in attachment anxiety were more likely to demand. Demand behaviors in one partner were also associated with withdraw behaviors in the other (and vice versa). In this article, we discuss the research and clinical implications of these findings.
Clinical profile of paediatric acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in Western Australia: 1987 to 2020
Authors: Kumar Mohit , Little James , Pearce Sarah , MacDonald Bradley , Greenland Melanie , Tarca Adrian , Ramsay James , Katzenellenbogen Judith , Yim Deane
Published: July 2024

Aim

To describe the clinical profile of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) presentations to paediatric cardiology tertiary services in Western Australia (WA).

Methods

A retrospective clinical audit of individuals with confirmed ARF referred to the only paediatric tertiary cardiac service in WA (1 January 1987 to 31 December 2020). Comparisons between inpatient, outpatient, remote and non‐remote groups were assessed.

Results

Four hundred seventy‐one episodes of ARF in 457 individuals (235 male; median age = 8 years) met clinical criteria. The majority were Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children (91.2%), with 62.1% living in remote areas. The number of ARF and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) diagnoses per year increased from 1987 to 2017 with notable peaks in 2013 and 2017. The average annual incidence of tertiary‐referred ARF in WA of 4–15‐year‐olds from 1987 to 2020 was 4.96 per 100 000. ARF features included carditis (59.9%), chorea (31%), polyarthritis (30%) and polyarthralgia (24.2%). RHD was evident in 61.8% of cases and predominantly manifested as mitral regurgitation (55.7%). Thirty‐four children (7.4%) with severe RHD underwent valvular surgery. 12% had at least one recurrent ARF episode. Remote individuals had more than double the rate of recurrence compared to non‐remote individuals (P = 0.0058). Compared to non‐remote episodes, remote presentations had less polyarthritis (P = 0.0022) but greater proportions of raised ESR (P = 0.01), ASOT titres (P = 0.0073), erythema marginatum (P = 0.0218) and severe RHD (P = 0.0133).

Conclusion

The high proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians affected by ARF/RHD in WA reflects the significant burden of disease within this population. Children from remote communities were more likely to present with concurrent severe RHD. Our study reinforces the persisting need to improve primary and secondary ARF initiatives in rural and remote communities.
Feasibility and usability of three consecutive nights with self‐applied, home polysomnography
Authors: Ferretti Dimitri , Islind Anna S. , Ólafsdóttir Kristín A. , Sigurdardottir Sigridur , Jóhannsdóttir Kamilla R. , Hedner Jan , Grote Ludger , Arnardottir Erna Sif
Published: July 2024

In‐laboratory polysomnography, the gold‐standard for diagnosing sleep disorders, is resource‐demanding and not conducive to multiple night evaluations. Ambulatory polysomnography, especially when self‐applied, could be a viable alternative. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and reliability of self‐applied polysomnography over three consecutive nights in untrained participants, assessing: technical success rate; comparing sleep diagnostic variables from single and multiple nights; and evaluating participants' subjective experience. Data were collected from 78 participants (55.1% females) invited to test a self‐applicable polysomnography device for three consecutive nights at home. The technical success rate for valid sleep recordings was 82.5% out of 234 planned study nights, with 87.2% of participants obtaining at least two valid nights. Misclassification of obstructive sleep apnea severity was higher in participants with mild OSA (21.4%) compared with those with moderate‐to‐severe obstructive sleep apnea or no obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep efficiency and wake after sleep onset showed improvement from Night 1 to Night 3 (p < 0.001), and the mean polysomnography set‐up time decreased significantly over this period. Participants reported moderate‐to‐high satisfaction with the device (System Usability Scale score 71.2 ± 12.4). The findings suggest that self‐applied polysomnography is a feasible diagnostic method for untrained individuals at risk for sleep disorders, and that multiple night assessments can improve diagnostic precision for mild obstructive sleep apnea cases.
Potential of heat shock protein inducers in mitigating benzo[α]pyrene toxicity in stellate sturgeon fingerlings (Acipenser stellatus): Assessing the effects on CYP450 and AChE activity, HSP70 expression, antioxidant levels, cortisol, and immunological responses
Authors: Vahdatiraad Leila , Heidari Behrooz , Zarei Sevda , Sohrabi Tooraj , Ghafouri Hossein
Published: July 2024

Benzo[α]pyrene (BαP), a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), is a significant contaminant in the environment, which accumulates and is toxic to invertebrates and fish. The present study aimed to determine the acute toxicity of sublethal concentrations of BαP in the presence of the heat shock protein (HSP) inducer (HSPi) on CYP450 activity, HSP70 gene expression, antioxidant levels, immunological alterations, and AChE activity in stellate sturgeon fingerlings. Two‐hundred and forty fish were exposed to 100 mg L−1 of Nopal endurance (HSPi) for 4 h. In the next step, the fish were exposed to BαP concentrations equivalent to 25%, 50%, and 75% of the 96‐h LC50 values. Sampling was carried out on the first, third, and sixth days of the experiment, and the samples were analyzed using two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), cluster analysis (CA), and principal component analysis (PCA). The CYP450 activity significantly increased under BαP treatments. Higher expression of the HSP70 gene was observed in the higher concentration of HSPi + BαP treatments. The lowest AChE activity was observed in BαP treatments. However, the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and total antioxidant activity enzymes and immunological responses (lysozyme, IgM, and C3) increased by using HSPi. It can be concluded that the HSP inducer significantly decreased BαP toxicity and resulted in more resistance to stress situations in sturgeon fingerlings.
Legacy and evolution: The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African‐American Arts + Culture
Authors: Barra Monica Patrice
Published: July 2024

In 2024, the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African‐American Arts + Culture in Charlotte, North Carolina, celebrates its 50th anniversary. Founded as the as the Afro‐American Cultural and Service Center in 1974 by Mary Harper and Bertha Maxwell‐Roddey at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, this case study reflects on the Gantt Center's evolution from a community‐based cultural space to a full‐fledged arts and cultural institution in uptown Charlotte. It focuses on the opportunities and challenges this Black‐centered and Black‐led institution has faced over the past half century as it has evolved from a grassroots cultural organization to a hybrid fine arts, education, and cultural institution, negotiating the needs of a growing array of funders, leadership, artists, culture keepers, and audiences. Integrating historical material, interviews with past and current Gantt Center staff, and ethnographic observation, this case study describes how this historic institution honors its deep roots as an organization serving to Charlotte's Black community as it grows into a national and international center of Black arts.
Root foraging strategies and niche segregation of three mediterranean shrub species
Authors: Cabal Ciro , Valladares Fernando , Pacala Stephen W.
Published: July 2024

Shrubs are usually adapted to stressful environments in which soil resources are limited, and thus, roots are fundamental for their biological success. However, root measures are challenging to collect, especially in field conditions and at the individual level. For this study, we collected data on the three‐dimensional distribution of fine root biomass of twenty‐three individuals belonging to three shrub species in a mediterranean shrubland in central Spain: gum rockrose Cistus ladanifer, rosemary Salvia rosmarinus, and hairy‐fruited broom Cytisus striatus. Our goal was to determine the soil‐foraging strategies adopted by the plants. We hypothesized that plants would show stabilizing niche differences explaining the high plant biodiversity characteristic of mediterranean shrublands and that they would follow the game theory model's prediction of exploitative segregation of roots behaving territorially but also over‐proliferating roots close to their stem and engaging in a root tragedy of the commons. We found that two‐thirds to three‐fourths of the biomass was belowground, and the system's productivity was roughly 500–600 g C m−2 year−1. Only rosemary plants competed with neighbors following the exploitative segregation predictions. Broom plants had the shallowest and most widespread root systems but significantly reduced their root range toward competing neighbors. Gum rockrose presented deep, narrow root systems avoiding extensive overlap with neighbors but did not appear to respond to competitive pressure levels. Shrubs appeared to stratify their roots at different soil depths, supporting the niche segregation hypothesis.
A viroid‐derived small interfering RNA targets bHLH transcription factor MdPIF1 to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in Malus domestica
Authors: Zhang Zhenlu , Li Zhao‐Yang , Zhang Fu‐Jun , Zheng Peng‐Fei , Ma Ning , Li Lianzhen , Li Haojian , Sun Ping , Zhang Shuai , Wang Xiao‐Fei , Lu Xiao‐Yan , You Chun‐Xiang
Published: July 2024

Fruit colour is a critical determinant for the appearance quality and commercial value of apple fruits. Viroid‐induced dapple symptom severely affects the fruit coloration, however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In this study, we identified an apple dimple fruit viroid (ADFVd)‐derived small interfering RNA, named vsiR693, which targeted the mRNA coding for a bHLH transcription factor MdPIF1 (PHYTOCHROME‐INTERACTING FACTOR 1) to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in apple. 5’ RLM‐RACE and artificial microRNA transient expression system proved that vsiR693 directly targeted the mRNA of MdPIF1 for cleavage. MdPIF1 positively regulated anthocyanin biosynthesis in both apple calli and fruits, and it directly bound to G‐box element in the promoter of MdPAL and MdF3H, two anthocyanin biosynthetic genes, to promote their transcription. Expression of vsiR693 negatively regulated anthocyanin biosynthesis in both apple calli and fruits. Furthermore, co‐expression of vsiR693 and MdPIF1 suppressed MdPIF1‐promoted anthocyanin biosynthesis in apple fruits. Infiltration of ADFVd infectious clone suppressed coloration surrounding the injection sites in apple fruits, while a mutated version of ADFVd, in which the vsiR693 producing region was mutated, failed to repress fruit coloration around the injection sites. These data provide evidence that a viroid‐derived small interfering RNA targets host transcription factor to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis in apple.
Association between commuting and mental health among Japanese adolescents
Authors: Nakajima Suguru , Otsuka Yuichiro , Itani Osamu , Kaneko Yoshiyuki , Suzuki Masahiro , Kaneita Yoshitaka
Published: July 2024

Aim

Mental health issues in adolescence contribute to various disease burdens later in life and are associated with violence, crime, and suicide. Activities such as sleep, diet, exercise, and time spent using electronic devices are related to declining mental health. However, few studies have examined the association between commuting times to school and mental health. This study tested the hypothesis that high school students' long commuting times are associated with poor mental health.

Method

A cross‐sectional study was conducted between October and December 2022 among 2067 students at two private high schools. Survey items included participant information (sex, grade, school), commuting time, mental health status (Patient Health Questionnaire 9 [PHQ‐9]: depressive symptoms, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 [GAD‐7]: anxiety symptoms), lifestyle factors, and sleep‐related factors.

Results

Data from 1899 high school students were analyzed. The prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms was 17.3% and 19.0%, respectively. A commuting time of ≥1 h was significantly associated with depressive symptoms (adjusted odds ratio: 1.60 [95% confidence interval]: 1.14–2.24) and anxiety symptoms (adjusted odds ratio: 1.51 [95% confidence interval]: 1.09–2.10). Sex, grade, use of ≥8 h/day of electronic devices, and chronotype were significantly associated with depressive symptoms, while sex, grade, use of ≥8 h/day of electronic devices, and insomnia were significantly associated with anxiety symptoms.

Conclusion

It is suggested that long commuting times are associated with poor mental health in high school students. Parents and schools should consider commuting time when advising students on school selection to maintain their mental health.
Target switch costs in visual search arise during the preparatory activation of target templates
Authors: Grubert Anna , Wang Ziyi , Eimer Martin
Published: July 2024

Prior research on task switching has shown that the reconfiguration of stimulus–response mappings across trials is associated with behavioral switch costs. Here, we investigated the effects of switching representations of target‐defining features in visual search (attentional templates). Participants searched for one of two color‐defined target objects that changed predictably every two trials (Experiment 1) or every four trials (Experiment 2). Substantial costs were observed for search performance on target switch relative to target repeat trials. Preparatory target template activation processes were tracked by measuring N2pc components (indicative of attentional capture) to a rapid series of task‐irrelevant color singleton probes that appeared during the interval between search displays, and either matched the currently relevant or the other target color. N2pcs to relevant target color probes emerged from 800 ms before search display onset on target repetition trials, reflecting the activation of a corresponding color template. Crucially, probe N2pcs only emerged immediately before target onset on target switch trials, indicating that preparatory template activation was strongly delayed. In contrast, irrelevant color singleton probes did not trigger N2pcs on either repeat or switch trials, suggesting the absence of any target template inertia across trials. These results show that switching the identity of search targets delays preparatory target template activation and impairs subsequent attentional guidance processes. They suggest that performance costs on switch versus repeat trials are associated with differences in the time course of task preparation.
Institutional design and the stability of responsiveness in the American states
Authors: LaCombe Scott
Published: July 2024

Background

There is a significant body of research investigating how institutions moderate the relationship between public opinion and policy in the American States, but far less attention has been given to understanding the variance of policy change. Some states have remained relatively stable in their ideological trajectory, while other states tend to see large unstable swings in policy.

Objectives

I argue that the variance of policy, not just the mean, is an important component of understanding policy responsiveness. A state's institutional design can influence both the extent to which policymakers follow public opinion and the ease of moving the status quo.

Methods

I use a heteroskedastic regression to model policy responsiveness and variance in the state using a measure of the strength of a state’s checks and balance system and a measure of accountability pressure.

Results

States with a robust checks and balances system see less policy variance, whereas there is mixed evidence that institutions designed to strengthen public opinion’s role in policy are associated with more stable policy. I also find that institutions play a much stronger role in reducing social policy variance compared to economic policy.

Conclusion

Variance should be incorporated into our understanding of policy responsiveness, and represents another dimension in which institutions may influence the relationship between public opinion and policy.
Computing optimal allocation of trials to subregions in crop‐variety testing in case of correlated genotype effects
Authors: Prus Maryna
Published: July 2024

The subject of this work is the allocation of trials to subregions in crop variety testing in the case of correlated genotype effects. A solution for computation of optimal allocations using the OptimalDesign package in R is proposed. The obtained optimal designs minimize linear criteria based on the mean squared error matrix of the best linear unbiased prediction of the genotype effects. The proposed computational approach allows for any kind of additional linear constraint on the designs. The results are illustrated by a real data example.