bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous coinfection with influenza virus and an arbovirus impedes influenza‐specific but not Semliki Forest virus–specific responses
Authors: Foo Isabelle Jia‐Hui , Cabug Aira F , Gilbertson Brad , Fazakerley John K , Kedzierska Katherine , Kedzierski Lukasz
Published: February 2025

Outbreaks of respiratory virus infections and arbovirus infections both pose a substantial threat to global public health. Clinically, both types of infection range from mild to severe and coinfections may occur more commonly than supposed. Our previous experimental coinfection study in mice demonstrated that prior infection with the arbovirus Semliki Forest virus (SFV) negatively impacted immune responses to influenza A virus (IAV). Here, we investigate whether simultaneous coinfection impacts the outcome of immune responses or disease. Simultaneous SFV and IAV infection did not lead to exacerbated or attenuated disease compared with the single virus infection control groups. SFV brain virus titers and brain pathology, including inflammation and immune responses, were comparable in the coinfection and single infection groups. By contrast, there was enhanced IAV replication, but no exacerbated lung pathology in coinfected mice. The magnitude of IAV‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses in the lungs was lower compared with IAV‐only infection. Considered along with our previous study, this study provides evidence that the timing of viral coinfection is pivotal in determining effects on immune responses, pathological changes and disease outcome.
Beyond the WDR's state‐centrism: Multi‐level migration governance and migrant exclusion
Authors: Axster Sabrina , Beatty Riedl Rachel
Published: February 2025

The 2023 World Development Report, titled Migrants, Refugees, and Societies, analyses the state policies, laws, and labour market forces that determine the ability of migrants to improve their social and economic wellbeing. However, in its analysis the report adopts a state‐centric view, focusing predominantly on the state as the primary actor in the management of migration, thereby eliding a thorough analysis of how formal and informal institutions at the supranational and subnational levels impact the lives of migrants beyond citizenship. In this response, we instead argue for multi‐scalar analysis and evaluation of the policies that affect migrants. We illustrate how citizenship and access to its associated benefits are mediated at these multiple levels and bring compounding factors such as race, class, gender, religion, skill‐level, and rural or urban origin, among others, into view. This allows for a fuller analysis of the processes that shape migrant's experiences and lives.
‘It Gives Me Safety to Be Here’: Patients' Perspectives About Safety on Psychiatric Wards
Authors: Akinlotan Oladapo , O'Connor Allen , Peacham Beth , Crabb Lauren
Published: February 2025

Providing safe care within psychiatric wards is essential to promote the well‐being and recovery of patients on the wards. This can however be complicated because patients' behaviours can present risks to themselves and others. Understanding what patients think about safety on psychiatric wards holds crucial insight about addressing and managing safety issues on the wards. The aim of this study is to understand safety on psychiatric wards from the perspective of the patients. The study is a systematic review that follows PRISMA guidance and registered with PROSPERO. A comprehensive search of five electronic databases was completed. Searches were limited to peer‐reviewed academic journal articles published in English language from 2014 which examine safety on psychiatric settings from the patients' perspective. An initial result of 28 567 studies was filtered to six studies that met all the eligibility criteria. Quality assessment was completed using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme whereas data synthesis was conducted using thematic analysis. Four major themes that describe safety on psychiatric wards emerged: perception of safety; prevalence of lack of safety: perpetuating lack of safety; and promoting safety. Safety on psychiatric wards is like two sides of a coin: what promotes safety can also perpetuate lack of safety. The place (hospital), people (staff) and practice can both promote safety and perpetuate lack of safety. Finding and maintaining the right balance is crucial for achieving safety on psychiatric wards. These findings have implications for the effective management of safety issues on psychiatric wards.
Contemporary Factors Influencing Professional Identity in Acute Care Nurses: An Integrative Review
Authors: Howle Ashley , Carter Gregory , Reising Deanna
Published: February 2025

Aim

To explore the current state of the science on influencing factors of acute care nursing professional identity.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

Data were collected and screened using Covidence systematic review software, adhering to pre‐defined inclusion criteria. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist was used for critical appraisal, and content analysis was applied to analyse the data.

Data Sources

CINAHL, PsycINFO and PubMed were utilised to search literature published between 2018 and 2023.

Results

A total of 18 articles were included. Five themes were identified: (1) internal influences; (2) external influences; (3) externalisation of role; (4) early versus seasoned career experiences and (5) barriers to professional identity formation.

Conclusion

This review found evidence of multiple influencing factors, predominantly external, shaping acute care nurse professional identity. Research on the long‐term impacts on practice, management, policy and education remains limited.

Implications

Enablers to forming professional identity foster empowerment, confidence, belonging and job satisfaction. Barriers to formation lead to hesitation, performance impediments, stress and exhaustion. Development of nurse professional identity may be instrumental in tackling acute care workforce challenges.

Impact

Review findings on professional identity formation can guide initiatives for enhancing healthy work environments and workforce retention. This exploration has international contemporary relevance for the nursing profession with suggestions for future research.

Impact Statement

Existing literature underscores the significance of professional identity in nursing, yet the mechanisms underlying its integration and maintenance in the contemporary acute care workforce remain unclear. In the context of overwhelming workloads that adversely affect nurse mental health and retention, coupled with the escalating nursing shortage as we emerge from the pandemic, this examination of professional identity formation holds contemporary relevance for the evolving acute care landscape, offering implications for future research. The insights gleaned from this review may guide organisational leaders in developing new strategies addressing acute care nurse management, policy, education and retention.

Reporting Method

Reporting adheres to the EQUATOR network, ENTREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

None.
Comparison of Ultrasonography, CBCT, Transgingival Probing, Colour‐Coded and Periodontal Probe Transparency With Histological Gingival Thickness: A Diagnostic Accuracy Study Revisiting Thick Versus Thin Gingiva
Authors: Sabri Hamoun , Nava Paolo , Hazrati Parham , Alrmali Abdusalam , Galindo‐Fernandez Pablo , Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Calatrava Javier , Barootchi Shayan , Tavelli Lorenzo , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: February 2025

Aim

To assess the reliability of ultrasonographic, cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT), probe transparency and transgingival probing (TGP) methods in evaluating gingival thickness (GT), compared with the gold standard histological assessment.

Methods

Sixteen fresh cadaver heads with intact gingivae were used. The sequence for GT measurement included CBCT, ultrasonography, probe transparency, TGP and histology. Both stainless steel periodontal probe and colour‐coded probes were used for transparency. TGP involved a calibrated endodontic spreader, and histologic samples served as a comparative standard. Primary outcomes evaluated accuracy in GT measurement, while secondary outcomes assessed agreement among methods and established an optimal threshold for thin versus thick gingiva.

Results

One hundred and fifteen teeth were examined, yielding a mean GT of 1.34 mm histologically. US and CBCT underestimated GT (means of 1.25 mm and 1.13 mm, respectively), while TGP overestimated (1.51 mm). Correlations (r = 0.88–0.98) and ICC values (0.73–0.95) indicated strong inter‐method agreement. Regression models significantly estimated histological GT from US, CBCT and TGP. A new 1.18 mm cut‐off, based on histology, improved diagnostic accuracy over the traditional 1 mm threshold.

Conclusions

While histology remains the GT reference standard, US, CBCT and TGP achieved clinically acceptable accuracy. US showed the highest agreement with histology, followed by TGP and CBCT. The study supports US as the most practical non‐invasive tool, although CBCT and TGP remain viable options. Further clinical validation is recommended, acknowledging the limitations of cadaveric models in reflecting in vivo conditions.
A commentary on Kim et al.'s (2025) mapping the multifaceted approaches and impacts of adverse childhood experiences: an umbrella review of meta‐analyses for Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry's Annual Research Review
Authors: Herrenkohl Todd I.
Published: February 2025

Research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) has progresses at a rapid pace over the last 30 years and publications now span many fields and disciplines. With a literature this vast, it is important to stake stock of what is known and where gaps in knowledge remain by reviewing and synthesizing published findings. In this commentary, I center remarks on a well‐designed umbrella review conducted by Kim et al. on the impact of ACEs. Their review adds depth and precision to earlier reviews on this topic and draws attention to areas where further research is needed, including mechanisms underlying the transmission of risk and the onset of health‐related outcomes associated with ACE exposure. I conclude the commentary by echoing a call by Kim and colleagues for more investment in public health prevention to reduce ACE exposure, lessen trauma symptoms, and reduce costs to society.
Development of an Audit Tool to Evaluate End of Life Care in the Emergency Department: A Face and Content Validity Study
Authors: Heufel Melissa , Kourouche Sarah , Mitchell Rebecca , Cardona Magnolia , Thomas Benjamin , Lo Wing‐Shan Angela , Murgo Marghie , Vergan Debbie , Curtis Kate
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Emergency Departments (ED) are increasingly caring for patients with acute, chronic and terminal conditions requiring End of Life Care (EOLC). There is no published and validated tool available to evaluate EOLC delivery of patients dying in the ED. This study describes the face and content validity testing process to develop, refine and test a new and unique audit tool to evaluate EOLC in the ED.

Methods

The face and content validation process used a three‐round modified‐Delphi technique. We consulted 11 experts to assess the proposed 89 items. Face validity explored the overall question of appropriateness and relevance; and content validity examined relevance ratings using the Content Validity Index (CVI) 4‐point Likert scale in two rounds. Iterative assessment of ratings led to inclusion (CVI > 0.78), revision (CVI 0.65 to < 0.78) or exclusion (CVI < 0.65) of items from the tool.

Results

Of the initial 89 items, 66 were included (CVI > 0.78), 16 items revised (scores 0.65 to < 0.78), seven were removed (scores < 0.65) and two new items suggested. Items covered the constructs patient characteristics, circumstances of death, ED performance, communication and care planning, recognition of dying, care delivery, and needs of families and carers. Scale CVI achieved 0.90. The consolidated list of 81 items achieved acceptable face validity and excellent content validity.

Conclusion

Face and content validity of the ED EOLC audit tool achieved acceptable item‐CVI scores and an excellent scale‐CVI score. We recommend external validation of its components in real‐life settings to monitor and set locally relevant clinical practice benchmarks.
Determination of Minimum Alveolar Concentrations of Isoflurane and Effective Plasma Concentration of Propofol in Common Marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Muta Kanako , Koizumi Makoto , Miyabe‐Nishiwaki Takako , Sotomaru Yusuke , Nobukiyo Asako , Ohta Hiroki , Okano Hirotaka James , Kamata Masatoshi , Nagakubo Dai , Nishimura Ryohei
Published: February 2025

Background

Common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) have been widely used as laboratory animals; However, limited sedation and anesthetic protocols have yet to be established. In this study, the minimum alveolar concentration of an inhalant (isoflurane) and effective predicted plasma concentration of an injectable anesthetic (propofol) were measured for optimization of sedation and anesthetic protocols in marmosets.

Methods

The minimum alveolar concentrations (MACs) for several stimulations (nociceptive stimulation, endotracheal intubation, and non‐painful direct stimulation), MAC‐noci, MAC‐extb, and MAC‐awake, respectively, were measured for isoflurane with the up‐and‐down method from four healthy marmosets. Predicted plasma concentrations 50 (Cp50s), which are equivalent to MACs of isoflurane, Cp50‐noci, Cp50‐extb, and Cp50‐awake, respectively, were measured for propofol.

Results

MAC‐noci and MAC‐extb of isoflurane in marmosets were 1.91% and 1.38%, respectively. MAC‐awake was not determined owing to technical difficulties. Cp50‐noci, Cp50‐extb, and Cp50‐awake were 9.45, 7.21, and 3.54 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusions

The obtained results refined existing isoflurane and propofol for sedation and anesthesia in marmosets.
From Nature to Nurture: The Science and Applications of Snail Slime in Health and Beauty
Authors: Rashad Muhammad , Sampò Simone , Cataldi Amelia , Zara Susi
Published: February 2025

Background

Snail slime (SS), a complex biological substance produced by various snail species, has garnered significant attention in recent years due to its diverse applications in health, cosmetics, and biotechnology.

Aims

Our previous review focused on the biological activities of SS, while the current one explores the science behind SS with a special focus on environmental factors affecting its quality and quantity, non‐lethal extraction methods, its composition, current applications in health and cosmetics followed by its emerging applications, and future prospects while achieving sustainability.

Methods

A literature review on background, uses in health and cosmetics, and future prospects of SS was conducted. PubMed and Google Scholar were used to find the key articles exploring SS and the data is summarized and described here.

Results

Extraction methods range from traditional farming practices to advanced, non‐invasive techniques aimed at minimizing stress on snails. Emerging applications include potential use in sustained and targeted drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and as components in advanced biomaterials. Future perspectives involve technological advancements in production, such as precision farming and biotechnology‐enhanced mucin production. The development of synthetic alternatives and sustainable practices is crucial for the industry's long‐term viability.

Conclusion

As research continues to uncover new properties and applications, SS is poised to play an increasingly important role in the health and beauty industries, highlighting the need for balanced exploitation, standardization, quality control, and regulatory compliance in its production and use.
Critical Discourse Analysis in Reaction to Türkiye's Bill on the Euthanasia of Stray Animals: Revelations and Inferences
Authors: Utku‐Bilici Özlem , Bilici İlhan
Published: February 2025

The phenomenon of animal rights has been a controversial issue i.e. not given proper priority but deserves utmost attention. The present study was designed in response to the increasing need to comprehend the unique being of animals within social boundaries. Besides, considering the ongoing discussions initiated in the varied recent studies as well as the contentious debates held within several up‐to‐date media sources, this study, designed as a single‐site case study, delved into the draft law that has been proposed by the Turkish government on euthanasia of stray animals. The data were obtained from six media platforms signifying three different editorial styles, namely pro‐government, anti‐government, and alternative channels. Three‐dimensional critical discourse analysis model and framing theory were simultaneously utilized to analyze the data. The findings revealed characteristic differences among six different media portals. The pro‐government channels were relatively cautious in reporting the bill whereas the anti‐government channels' agenda was generous in informing the public highly sensitively. Conversely, the alternative media platforms were found to be more neutral in demonstrating their responses to the draft law. Conclusively, case‐specific discoveries, perspectives, reflections, and insights were highlighted, and it was underscored that animals’ fundamental societal role requires more thorough acknowledgment and attention.
Who can work when, and why do we have to care? Education, care demands, and the gendered division of work schedules in France and Germany
Authors: Deuflhard Carolin , Ganault Jeanne
Published: February 2025

Objective

This article investigates how education and the presence and age of children shape gendered work schedule arrangements among couples in France and Germany.

Background

Despite the prevalence of nonstandard work schedules, schools and daycare facilities typically operate during standard work hours. Nevertheless, little is known on the gendered division of work schedules. Both France and Germany have shifted toward labor market deregulation, favoring the concentration of nonstandard schedules in lower‐class jobs. However, France provides full‐day public education and care. In Germany, public childcare is less comprehensive, and daycare and school hours are considerably shorter.

Method

The study uses sequence and cluster analysis on time‐use data (N = 11,268 days) to identify typical work schedules. Multinomial logistic regressions assess how education and the presence and age of children are associated with men's and women's types of days.

Results

In both countries, less‐educated men were more likely to work shifts, whereas less‐educated women were more likely to not be employed. However, standard work schedules prevailed among better‐educated French men and women, whereas partial workdays and non‐workdays predominated among German women.

Conclusion

In both labor market contexts, less‐educated partnered women rather than men seem to opt out of employment due to scheduling conflicts between work and care. However, more work‐facilitating family policies allow for more gender‐equal schedules among better‐educated men and women in France.
Causal Mechanisms in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Management: A Meta‐Synthesis of Micro‐CSR Research
Authors: Remmer Stefanie , Gilbert Dirk Ulrich
Published: February 2025

Much psychologically oriented micro‐CSR research emphasizes intra‐individual processes, leading to a relative omission of the role of interactions among individuals in managing CSR. This limitation hinders the potential of such micro‐CSR research to explain CSR as an organizational‐level outcome. We adopt a meta‐synthesis methodology to extract insights on inter‐individual processes in CSR management from existing literature that examines CSR's microfoundations beyond a purely psychological perspective. By incorporating a causal mechanism approach into our meta‐synthesis, we develop a theoretical framework comprising three causal mechanisms that elucidate how individual behaviours and interactions of differing sets of dominant actor types (including change agents, supporters, opportunists, resisters and top and senior management) foster substantive or incremental progress in CSR or its obstruction within firms. Our findings establish a foundation for further research into individual‐level and temporal dynamics in CSR management, and the conditions under which firms are more likely to implement impactful CSR initiatives.
Personality traits and insomnia: direct and anxiety‐mediated associations
Authors: Conway Bárbara Araújo , do Carmo Marwin Machay Indio do Brasil , Filho Helder Sergio Lira Soares , Toscanini Andrea Cecília , Hasan Rosa , Alves Marcela Mansur , El Rafihi‐Ferreira Renatha
Published: February 2025

Insomnia is the one of the most prevalent sleep disorders in the adult population. Studies have shown that personality traits, particularly neuroticism, act as factors that predispose to and potentially perpetuate insomnia; however, there is still no consensus in the literature regarding these relationships considering their mechanisms. A total of 595 participants answered the Insomnia Severity Index, Revised Neuroticism‐Extroversion‐Openness (NEO) Five‐Factor Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, questions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (fifth edition), and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Descriptive analysis, correlations and stepwise linear regression were used to assess the associations between the five personality traits and insomnia severity. Mediation and moderation analyses were performed to evaluate the mechanisms underlying the association between insomnia severity and neuroticism. There was a direct negative association between insomnia severity and openness to experience and an indirect positive association between insomnia severity and neuroticism. Anxiety was identified as a mediator and depression as a moderator of the association between insomnia severity and neuroticism. The neuroticism and openness to experience personality traits are significant predictors of insomnia severity. Openness to experience appears to be a protective factor against insomnia. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our findings. These results may contribute to the development of new psychological and behavioural protocols for the treatment of insomnia.
Single‐Cell Transcriptome Identifies a Proinflammatory B‐Cell Subset in Hepatitis B Virus Associated Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure
Authors: Wang Han , Xu Chuanshen , Yao Ruoyu , Zhang Wenrui , Wang Shuang , Qin Xiaojing , Liu Qi , Zhao Ninghui , Sun Peng , Yao Jia
Published: February 2025

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a severe clinical condition with high short‐term mortality, in part due to the dysfunctional immune response. Identifying immune mechanism under ACLF is critical to understand its pathogenesis and to develop novel targeted therapeutics. Among the immune cells, how are B cells involved in ACLF remains largely unknown. We performed scRNA‐seq on peripheral blood mononuclear cells from clinical ACLF patients and healthy controls. Integrated analysis was performed to identify the role of B cells in ACLF. Subsequently, different subsets of B cells in ACLF were validated through flow cytometry based on their highlighted markers. Six B‐cell subgroups, including naive B cells, naive B2 cells, nonclass‐switched memory B cells, class‐switched memory B cells, autoimmune‐related B cells and plasma B cells were identified. The proportions of naive B cells significantly expand in ACLF, compared with healthy control. Function enrichment analysis revealed the activation of inflammatory response in naive B cells. Further flow cytometry confirmed the elevated circulating naive B cells in ACLF. Our study uncovered the altered immune landscape of circulating B cells after ACLF. The proportion dynamics and functional perturbation indicate the potential of naive B cells as intervention targets in the future ACLF therapy.
Bocavirus Infection as a Potential Trigger for Hepatic Injury in Children
Authors: Seyrek Bera Enes , Aykac Kubra , Temizel İncinur Saltık , Cengiz Ali Bülent , Ozsurekci Yasemin
Published: February 2025

Human Bocavirus (HBoV) is an emerging pathogen linked to respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in children. While its role in respiratory diseases is established, its association with liver dysfunction remains unclear. This study presents six paediatric cases of elevated liver enzymes or acute liver failure during HBoV infection, including severe outcomes such as liver transplantation and one fatality. Frequent co‐infections with other pathogens were noted, complicating the clinical course. Although direct evidence of HBoV's role in liver involvement is lacking, its potential contribution warrants further investigation to guide clinical management.
Screening, Prevalence and Management of Chronic Viral Hepatitis C in Mental Health Setting: Towards the Eradication of A Forgotten Reservoir
Authors: Chelouah Sonia , Nna Harmonie , Angijiro Paul , Thomas Fanny , Thavaseelan Rusheenthira , Januel Dominique , Yekhlef Wanda
Published: February 2025

The rate of HCV infection is higher in people with psychiatric conditions than in the general population. However, access to somatic care for populations with mental or dual diagnoses remains insufficient. These circumstances could constitute a barrier to the eradication of HCV infection. A retrospective study was performed in the public mental health institution of Ville Evrard. Screening for HCV infection should be systematically proposed to patients attending the institution. On‐site assessment of liver disease severity and treatment with direct‐acting antivirals prescribed by physicians not specialised in hepatology allowed a better continuum of care. Patients lost to follow‐up after a positive HCV serology test without viral load assessment were contacted. Patients hospitalised at least once a year were included. 8520 patients out of 18,439 (46.2%) were screened for HCV infection between 2017 and 2021. The screening rate increased from 40.0% in 2017 to 65.7% in 2021. HCV seroprevalence was 2.2%. A total of 129 HCV PCRs were performed, and 27.1% were positive. In a logistic regression model, patients older than 30 years were at greater risk of having a positive HCV serology test. These positive serologies were 1.9 times higher in men than women (p < 0.001). The assessment of fibrosis was found in 45.7% of patients with a positive HCV PCR. Patients with psychiatric conditions constitute an important HCV reservoir. A strategy of screening and management of HCV infection in this population appears to be feasible. This strategy could contribute to the eradication of chronic HCV infection.
Digit Length Ratio as an Indicator of Fetal Androgen Levels: Relationship to Prostate Volume‐Related Men Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Authors: Ergin İsmail Emre , Öztürk Abuzer , Asdemir Aydemir
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the 2nd and 4th digit ratios, which are associated with fetal androgen exposure, and prostate volume and testosterone levels, both of which are linked to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

Methods

Male patients presenting to our urology clinic with increased prostate volume and LUTS were categorized into two groups: those with BPH and those without (non‐BPH). For both groups, the right‐hand 2D:4D finger ratio, testosterone levels, prostate volume, uroflow parameters, and IPSS scores were recorded.

Results

The 2D:4D ratio, prostate volumes, Qmax, and IPSS scores differed significantly between the BPH and non‐BPH groups (p = 0.023, 0.002, 0.000, 0.001). No significant difference was observed in total testosterone levels between the groups (p = 0.381). The 2D:4D ratio was negatively correlated with prostate volume and IPSS (r = −0.389, −0.308) and positively correlated with Qmax (r = 0.301).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the 2D:4D ratio is a straightforward and effective tool for assessing BPH patients, as it correlates with the severity of LUTS symptoms. This non‐invasive measure offers potential value in evaluating LUTS, and with age standardization, it could be applied more broadly across age groups. Further large‐scale studies are needed to refine its standardization and expand upon current findings.
Delay Solow Model Revisited
Authors: Matsumoto Akio , Szidarovszky Ferenc
Published: February 2025

This paper shows how cyclic behavior can emerge in a simple Solow capital accumulation model. For this purpose, it introduces a production delay (i.e., time‐to‐build) and a depreciation delay, and the resultant capital accumulation equation is a delay differential equation having delay‐dependent coefficients. Then, it constructs a condition under which the interaction of the delays and the population growth rate can lead to growth cycles that are not unlike those observed in reality. In particular, it is demonstrated that (i) the production delay alone is always harmless; (ii) with a lower population growth rate, the depreciation delay alone has a destabilizing effect if it is larger than a threshold value; (iii) with a larger population growth rate, the stable steady state arises regardless of the delay length. It is further demonstrated that multiple stability switchings can occur in the case of two distinct delays.
Safety and Sustainability of Axillary Versus Radial Arterial Catheters in Critically Ill Children: A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Davidovich Rotem , Kaplan Eytan , Kadmon Gili , Nahum Elhanan , Weissbach Avichai
Published: February 2025

Background

Arterial catheters are commonly used for hemodynamic monitoring and blood sampling in critically ill children, with the radial artery being the typical site. When radial cannulation is not feasible, alternative sites like the axillary artery may be utilized. However, the safety and sustainability of axillary arterial catheters compared to radial catheters in this population remain unclear.

Aims

This study aims to assess the safety and sustainability of axillary arterial catheters compared to radial arterial catheters in pediatric intensive care unit patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, case–control study at a university‐affiliated tertiary care pediatric intensive care unit. Patients aged 18 years or younger with axillary arterial catheters from January 2007 to December 2023 were compared to patients of similar ages with radial catheters.

Results

A computerized chart review identified 306 patients with axillary catheters, compared to 306 randomly selected patients with radial catheters. The rate of catheter site replacement was identical in both groups (40 out of 306). The median duration of axillary catheter use was 34 h longer (95% CI: 24–48; p < 0.001). Only one patient in the axillary group (0.33%) experienced a vascular complication, recovering fully after intervention. Patients with axillary catheters were characterized by a higher Pediatric Index of Mortality 3 scores, Vasoactive‐Inotropic Scores, and PICU mortality rates.

Conclusions

In this critically ill pediatric cohort, axillary arterial catheters were used longer and in a more severely ill population than radial catheters. Despite these differences, both catheter types demonstrated comparable safety and sustainability profiles.
A system genetics analysis uncovers the regulatory variants controlling drought response in wheat
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Yuling , Yang Yanyan , Wang Qiannan , Li Shumin , Li Fangfang , Du Linying , Zhang Peiyin , Wang Xuemin , Zhang Shuangxing , Zhang Xiaoke , Kang Zhensheng , Wang Xiaojie , Mao Hude
Published: February 2025

Plants activate a variable response to drought stress by modulating transcription of key genes. However, our knowledge of genetic variations governing gene expression in response to drought stress remains limited in natural germplasm. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the transcriptional variability of 200 wheat accessions in response to drought stress by using a systems genetics approach integrating pan‐transcriptome, co‐expression networks, transcriptome‐wide association study (TWAS), and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) mapping. We identified 1621 genes and eight co‐expression modules significantly correlated with wheat drought tolerance. We also defined 620 664 and 654 798 independent eQTLs associated with the expression of 17 429 and 18 080 eGenes under normal and drought stress conditions. Focusing on dynamic regulatory variants, we further identified 572 eQTL hotspots and constructed transcription factors governed drought‐responsive network by the XGBoost model. Subsequently, by combining with genome‐wide association study (GWAS), we uncovered a 369‐bp insertion variant in the TaKCS3 promoter containing multiple cis‐regulatory elements recognized by eQTL hotspot‐associated transcription factors that enhance its transcription. Further functional analysis indicated that elevating TaKCS3 expression affects cuticular wax composition to reduce water loss during drought stress, and thereby increase drought tolerance. This study sheds light on the genome‐wide genetic variants that influence dynamic transcriptional changes during drought stress and provides a valuable resource for the mining of drought‐tolerant genes in the future.
Migration discourses from the radical right: Mapping and testing potential for political mobilization
Authors: Veri Francesco , Maier Franziska
Published: February 2025

Radical right‐wing groups are often linked to conspiratorial beliefs that can fuel political extremism but understanding how these beliefs translate into real‐world action remains a challenge, as these communities tend to operate in insular networks. This study examines how migration‐related narratives shape political behaviour among Italy’s radical right. Using Facebook’s advertising system, we recruited supporters of these movements for an experimental survey. Applying Cultural Consensus Theory (CCT), we measured group consensus on anti‐migrant beliefs and tested the impact of media exposure by presenting participants with either positive or negative portrayals of migrants. Our findings reveal two key insights. First, radical right‐wing communities exhibit deeply entrenched anti‐migrant beliefs that function as cultural truths and are resistant to shifts in media framing. Second, negative media exposure does however amplify support for hostile political actions, including protests and political violence. Conversely, positive portrayals reduce the coherence of anti‐migrant consensus but do not significantly lower preferences for confrontational actions. These results suggest that media exposure does not change the core extremist beliefs of radical right‐wing supporters but instead triggers emotional responses that shape political behavior. Specifically, negative portrayals of migrants increase support for direct actions, such as protests and political violence, even though they do not reinforce or strengthen consensus on anti‐migrant beliefs. This finding underscores that countering violent extremism requires more than just challenging harmful narratives—it also demands addressing the emotional triggers that translate these attitudes into mobilization and political action.
Is Warmth More Persuasive? The Effects of Street‐Level Bureaucrats' Warmth and Competence on Citizens' Compliance During Pandemic Emergencies
Authors: Pei Zhijun
Published: February 2025

Compliance with government rules and guidelines is essential for effectively managing pandemic emergencies. Few studies have examined how street‐level bureaucrats (SLBs)' behavioral performance shapes citizen compliance decisions. This study combines the stereotype content model (SCM) with the elaboration likelihood model (ELM) of persuasion in a large‐scale randomized between‐subjects survey experiment conducted in China. The study tests the hypothesis that citizens' impressions of warmth and competence toward SLBs have respective and interactive positive persuasive effects on their compliance with government rules and guidelines during a pandemic emergency. The study finds that the impressions of competence and warmth are always important for citizen compliance in a pandemic emergency; and the impression of warmth matters more for citizen compliance for competent bureaucrats. An interaction effect between impressions of SLBs' warmth and competence in predicting citizen compliance was also confirmed. Citizens are more inclined to comply when they perceive SLBs as both competent and warm. The study concludes that citizens' compliance with government rules and guidelines during a pandemic emergency partly depends on their impressions of the quality of bureaucratic encounters. Thus, probing and highlighting citizens' impressions of SLBs during citizen–bureaucratic interactions is theoretically and practically worthwhile.
The evolution of mandated coordination in policy implementation: Evidence from China's central government agencies
Authors: Ma Liang , Chen Bin , Christensen Tom , Liu Weixing
Published: February 2025

Policies are often mandated to be implemented by multiple agencies, and it is meaningful to explore the mechanisms and dynamics of interagency coordination. By employing structurally oriented theory from organization theory to analyze archival data, this study examines the structure and dynamics of mandated interagency coordination arrangements in China's central agencies (2005–2022). Given their intricacies, economic and social policies are the priorities of mandated coordination. The results show a dense and unbalanced coordination, in which powerful agencies dominate coordination. The results reveal that coordination across agencies has steadily increased over time despite intensive institutional mergers and consolidation.
A pattern of hybridisation and population genetic structure of two water frog species (Ranidae, Amphibia) in the southwestern Balkans
Authors: Papežík Petr , Aschengeschwandtnerová Sandra , Benovics Michal , Dedukh Dmitrij , Doležálková‐Kaštánková Marie , Choleva Lukáš , Javorčík Adam , Lymberakis Petros , Papežíková Simona , Poulakakis Nikos , Sarı İdris , Šanda Radek , Vukić Jasna , Mikulíček Peter
Published: February 2025

The distribution of the neutral component of genetic diversity is the interplay of historical and ongoing processes resulting in the species‐specific genetic structure of populations, which can, however, be disrupted by interspecific hybridisation and introgression. In this study, we focused on two species of water frogs, Pelophylax epeiroticus and P. kurtmuelleri, which live in sympatry in the southwestern Balkans, to investigate the rate of hybridisation and population genetic structure using cytogenetic, mitochondrial (ND2) and nuclear DNA (microsatellite) markers. The overall hybridisation rate was 2.6%, with rates reaching up to 10% at specific sites. The course of gametogenesis and the occurrence of later generations of hybrids (beyond the F1 generation) indicate a sexual mode of hybrid reproduction. The bimodal structure of hybrid populations and the rarity of hybrids suggest substantial reproductive isolation between the two species; however, this isolation is unlikely attributable to differences in ecological niche occupation. In P. epeiroticus, sequence variation in the ND2 gene revealed two divergent lineages with a clear geographic pattern that corresponds to the genetic structure in microsatellite markers. In contrast, P. kurtmuelleri populations were not as geographically structured and showed only weak genetic differentiation in both types of markers. Pelophylax epeiroticus was significantly less variable at microsatellite loci compared to P. kurtmuelleri, which, together with the high differentiation of its populations, suggests a stronger influence of genetic drift. We can hypothesise that the differential strength of genetic drift in the two species may lead to unequal interspecific gene flow.
Relación entre índice de masa corporal, colesterol LDL y control de diabetes en población indígena
Authors: Perugache Rosero Christian Danilo
Published: February 2025

Introducción
La diabetes es una enfermedad crónica que afecta a diversas poblaciones, presentando desafíos únicos debido a factores genéticos, culturales y socioeconómicos. El índice de masa corporal (IMC), la tensión arterial y los niveles de colesterol LDL son factores críticos en el control de la diabetes, pero hay una falta de estudios en poblaciones indígenas.
Objetivo
Determinar la relación entre el IMC, la tensión arterial y los niveles de colesterol LDL con el control de la diabetes en pacientes indígenas.
Métodos
Estudio transversal en pacientes indígenas con diabetes atendidos en la IPS indígena MALLAMAS entre 2020 y 2024. Se recopilaron datos sobre IMC, tensión arterial, niveles de colesterol LDL y HbA1c. Se utilizaron análisis descriptivos y regresión logística.
Resultados
Se incluyeron 609 pacientes, de los cuales el 38.95% eran hombres. Cada unidad adicional en el IMC se asoció con una reducción del 6.7% en las probabilidades de tener HbA1c > 7% (OR = 0.933, IC 95%: 0.885-0.984). Los pacientes con peor control de la diabetes presentaron cifras más altas de presión arterial sistólica (p = 0.0356) y diastólica (p = 0.0004). La hipertensión no controlada se asoció con peor control de la diabetes (p = 0.022).
Discusión
La hipertensión no controlada está significativamente asociada con un peor control glucémico en pacientes indígenas. Una reducción en el IMC mostró una mejoría en los niveles de HbA1c. No se encontró una asociación significativa para el colesterol LDL, sugiriendo que otros factores pueden influir más en esta población.
Note on a classical case of self-organization: The Persian Immortals
Authors: Bravo Yuste Santos
Published: February 2025

In an article in this journal, Kanellopoulos, Razis, and van der Weele provided a key formula that describes the evolution of the cumulative distribution of the Persian Immortals' fighting abilities during a battle where fallen soldiers, who are more likely to be weaker than average, are replaced by reserve soldiers with average strength. They also calculated the limit distribution, which shows the final strength advantage of the fighting army over the reserve unit. However, their arguments to derive the mentioned key formula may be difficult to follow for some readers who are not familiar with how the cumulative distribution function of a set changes when some of its elements are replaced. Here, we present a simpler yet more general method to derive this formula. This makes Kanellopoulos, Razis, and van der Weele's compelling exercise more appropriate for an introductory undergraduate course.
Graphical approach to Bell's inequalities
Authors: Rȩbilas Krzysztof
Published: February 2025

Following an approach proposed by Eberhard, a graphical representation of entangled particles is used to provide insight into the meaning and direct experimental consequences of local realism. The most famous Bell-type theorems, like the original inequality developed by Bell, as well as the ones presented by Clauser, Horne, Shimony, and Holt, Clauser and Horn, Eberhard, d'Espagnat, and Maccone, are then derived by means of the graphical method. The universality and efficiency of the presented method in achieving different Bell's inequalities follow from making local realism explicitly a starting point in our general reasoning. The pedagogical and illustrative nature of the approach makes it easy to see directly how all the miscellaneous inequalities are actually rooted in the local realist view on microscopic particles.
The Benefits of Research-Embedded Training Camps in Sport Sciences
Authors: Girard Olivier , Brocherie Franck
Published: February 2025

Background: Sport scientists aim to enhance athletic performance by developing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based strategies. However, a common challenge to maximize sport science’s impact is the limited involvement of “research end users” (ie, athletes, coaches, and practitioners) in contextualizing these strategies. To address this, research-embedded training camps (RETCs) offer a collaborative opportunity bringing together all stakeholders to tackle real-world challenges by blending scientific insight with practical application for better knowledge translation or production. Purpose: This invited commentary explores the behind-the-scenes aspects of conducting successful RETCs. We discuss opportunities and challenges involved, drawing on our practical experience with environmental stress interventions. Evidence: Implementing an RETC requires a tailored intervention, shaped by the athlete group, research questions, and available resources—essentially answering the who, what, why, when, and where questions. Key principles for success include an athlete-centered focus, a diverse multidisciplinary team, scientific rigor, balancing control with flexibility, and adaptability. A coconstructed design ensures that the intervention remains scientifically relevant and practical and directly addresses real-world needs of athletes. Conclusion: Through the lens of environmental stress interventions, RETCs should prioritize practicality, collaboration, and athlete-focused approaches. Conducting interventions with athletes rather than on them can significantly enhance performance and support evidence-based training strategies (knowledge translation) and/or provide new actionable insights (knowledge production).
A Survey-Based Evaluation of Resistance Training Prescription Practices, Knowledge, and Attitudes Among Family Physicians
Authors: Herstain Daniel , Silverman Yedidya , Baruch Shoham , Green Ilan , Obolski Uri , Halperin Israel
Published: February 2025

Background: Despite the well-established benefits of resistance training (RT) in reducing health risks and enhancing quality of life, adherence to RT guidelines remains low. Promoting RT through healthcare practitioners could facilitate its widespread adoption. Although numerous studies have examined healthcare practitioners’ knowledge and prescription practices of physical activity, few have specifically focused on RT. Methods: Prescription practices and barriers, knowledge and attitudes toward RT, and attitudes toward RT education were assessed from a convenience sample recruited by a multichannel approach (eg, social media and mailing lists). Physicians answered an online questionnaire composed of 32 questions developed by a multidisciplinary team. A convenience sample was recruited through social media and mailing lists. Results: A total of 158 family physicians practicing in Israel completed the questionnaire. RT prescription rates were low, ranging from 16.9% to 31.9%, depending on the estimation method. Self-reported barriers to RT prescription included insufficient knowledge about RT and how to prescribe it. Physicians showed limited knowledge of RT guidelines but generally viewed RT positively for various health conditions. Finally, 83.5% felt inadequately trained in RT, and 88.6% expressed a desire for further education. Conclusions: This study highlights a gap between the recognized benefits of RT and the prescription practices and knowledge of family physicians. Enhanced educational efforts targeting RT could bridge this gap, potentially increasing RT prescription rates and improving public health outcomes.