bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient evaluation of gynaecological information provision and preferences
Authors: Williams Natalie , Griffin Georgia , Wall Megan , Watson Stuart , Warland Jane , Bradfield Zoe
Published: September 2023

Aim

To evaluate gynaecological patients' preferences and satisfaction regarding information provision, exploring enablers and barriers to information access.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey design was used.

Methods

A total of 293 women accessing gynaecological services responded to the survey. Quantitative analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Content analysis was conducted on qualitative data.

Results

Health professionals were the most common and preferred sources of gynaecological health information. Enablers to information provision included positive communication strategies by health professionals, participants having prior knowledge and doing their own research. Despite its widespread availability, only 24.2% of women preferred the internet as an information source. Poor communication and inadequate information provision were identified as barriers to information access. Statistically significant associations were identified between location of residence, education level, year of birth, diagnostic group and health information preferences. Recommendations from women included improved communication strategies, system changes and provision of individualized information.

Conclusion

Health professionals are central to women accessing information about gynaecological diagnoses. Areas for improvement include communication strategies, facilitating access to internet‐based resources for information and consideration of women's preferences when providing health information.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

Consumer co‐design of gynaecological health information and communication training for health professionals is recommended. Improved communication and facilitated use of internet‐based resources may improve women's understanding of information.

Impact

This study explored gynaecological patients' preferences and satisfaction regarding information provision, exploring enablers and barriers to information access.

It was found that gynaecological patients preferred individualized information provided to them directly by health professionals and despite its widespread availability, the internet is an underutilized health information resource.

These findings are applicable to health professionals and patients utilizing tertiary gynaecological health services in Australia but may be generalized if demographic data aligns with other jurisdictions.

Reporting Method

The STROBE reporting method was used in the preparation of the manuscript.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Transcriptome analysis of six tissues obtained post‐mortem from sepsis patients
Authors: Pinheiro da Silva Fabiano , Gonçalves André Nicolau Aquime , Duarte‐Neto Amaro Nunes , Dias Thomaz Lüscher , Barbeiro Hermes Vieira , Breda Cristiane Naffah Souza , Breda Leandro Carvalho Dantas , Câmara Niels Olsen Saraiva , Nakaya Helder I.
Published: September 2023

Septic shock is a life‐threatening clinical condition characterized by a robust immune inflammatory response to disseminated infection. Little is known about its impact on the transcriptome of distinct human tissues. To address this, we performed RNA sequencing of samples from the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, heart, lung, kidney and colon of seven individuals who succumbed to sepsis and seven uninfected controls. We identified that the lungs and colon were the most affected organs. While gene activation dominated, strong inhibitory signals were also detected, particularly in the lungs. We found that septic shock is an extremely heterogeneous disease, not only when different individuals are investigated, but also when comparing different tissues of the same patient. However, several pathways, such as respiratory electron transport and other metabolic functions, revealed distinctive alterations, providing evidence that tissue specificity is a hallmark of sepsis. Strikingly, we found evident signals of accelerated ageing in our sepsis population.
Survival of classic and biological systemic drugs in psoriasis: results of the BIOBADADERM registry and critical analysis
Authors: Dávila‐Seijo P. , Dauden E. , Carretero G. , Ferrandiz C. , Vanaclocha F. , Gómez‐García F.‐J. , Herrera‐Ceballos E. , De la Cueva‐Dobao P. , Belinchón I. , Sánchez‐Carazo J.‐L. , Alsina M. , López‐Estebaranz J.‐L. , Ferrán M. , Torrado R. , Carrascosa J.‐M. , Llamas M. , Rivera R. , Jiménez‐Puya R. , García‐Doval I. ,   the BIOBADADERM Study Group
Published: September 2023

Background

Few reported studies compare drug survival in moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis vulgaris.

Objectives

To describe and compare drug survival of systemic drugs, including biologic agents (infliximab, etanercept, adalimumab and ustekinumab) and classical drugs (acitretin, ciclosporin and methotrexate) in moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis.

Methods

This was a multicenter, prospective, cohort study of patients receiving systemic therapies between 2008 and 2013 in 12 hospitals in Spain. Baseline data and drug discontinuation were collected. Drug survival is presented using Kaplan–Meier survival curves. We compared adjusted risk ratios of serious adverse events (AEs) with results of survival analysis for AEs.

Results

A total of 1956 patients were included for analysis (1240 exposed to biologics during follow‐up and 1076 to classic therapies). Median follow‐up time was 3.3 years (0.0–5.1 years). There were 2209 discontinuations out of 3640 therapy cycles started. The main reason for discontinuation was lack of efficacy (36.4%) and remission (27.2%). Biologics showed a higher drug survival than classics and the pattern of survival results for all outcomes (positive or negative) were very similar. Adjusted risk ratios of serious AEs did not agree with results of survival analysis.

Limitations

A limitation is that this is an observational study with potential selection bias.

Conclusion

Survival as a proxy measure of drug safety in psoriasis is inadequate.
Role of membrane estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) in the rapid regulation of male sexual behavior
Authors: de Bournonville Catherine , Lemoine Philippine , Foidart Jean‐Michel , Arnal Jean‐François , Lenfant Françoise , Cornil Charlotte A.
Published: September 2023

The activation of male sexual behavior depends on brain estrogen synthesis. Estrogens act through nuclear and membrane receptors producing effects within hours/days or seconds/minutes, respectively. In mice, estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) is the main estrogen receptor (ER) controlling the activation of male sexual behavior. Although neuroestrogens rapidly modulate mouse sexual behavior, it is not known whether these effects involve membrane ERα (mERα). This study combines two complementary approaches to address this question. C451A‐ERα mice carry an ERα that cannot signal at the membrane, while estetrol (E4) is a natural estrogen acting as an agonist on nuclear ERα but as an antagonist on membrane ERα. In wild‐type males, E4 decreased the number of mounts and intromissions after 10 min. In C451A‐ERα males, E4 also altered sexual performance but after 30 min. E4 did not affect time spent near the female in both wild‐type and C451A‐ERα mice. However, regardless of genotype, the aromatase inhibitor 1,4,6‐Androstatriene‐3,17‐dione (ATD) decreased both sexual performance and the time spent near the female after 10 and 30 min, confirming the key role of aromatization in the rapid control of sexual behavior and motivation. In conclusion, the shift in timing at which the effect of E4 is observed in mice lacking mERα suggests a role for mERα in the regulation of rapid effects of neuroestrogens on sexual performance, thus providing the first demonstration that E4 acts as an antagonist of a mER in the brain. The persisting effect of ATD on behavior in C451A‐ERα mice also suggests the implication of another ER.
Predictive factors of post‐operative apathy in patients with diffuse frontal gliomas undergoing awake brain mapping
Authors: Motomura Kazuya , Kawamura Ai , Ohka Fumiharu , Aoki Kosuke , Nishikawa Tomohide , Yamaguchi Junya , Kibe Yuji , Shimizu Hiroki , Maeda Sachi , Saito Ryuta
Published: September 2023

Patients with diffuse frontal gliomas often present with post‐operative apathy after tumour removal. However, the association between apathy and tumour removal of gliomas from the frontal lobe remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing post‐operative apathy after tumour removal in patients with diffuse frontal gliomas. We compared the demographics and clinical characteristics of patients with and without post‐operative apathy in a cohort of 54 patients who underwent awake brain mapping for frontal gliomas. The frequency of clinical parameters such as left‐sided involvement, high‐grade tumour types (WHO grades III, IV), main tumour location in the anterior cingulate gyrus (ACC) and/or dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) was significantly greater in the apathetic group compared to the non‐apathetic group. The apathetic group scored significantly lower on neuropsychological assessments such as the Letter Fluency Test among the Word Fluency Tests than the non‐pathetic group (p = .000). Moreover, the scores of Parts 3, and 3–1 of the Stroop test were significantly lower in the apathetic group than those in the non‐apathetic group (p = .023, .027, respectively). Multivariate model analysis revealed that the appearance of post‐operative apathy was significantly related to side of the of lesion [left vs. right, hazard ratio (HR) = 8.00, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.36–46.96, p = .021], location of the main tumour in the frontal lobe (ACC/DLPFC/OFC vs. others, HR = 7.99, 95% CI = 2.16–29.59, p = .002), and the Letter Fluency Test (HR = .37, 95% CI = .15–.90, p = .028). Post‐operative apathy is significantly associated with ACC and/or DLPFC and OFC in the left hemisphere of diffuse frontal gliomas. Apathy in frontal gliomas is correlated with a decline in the Letter Fluency Test scores. Therefore, this instrument is a potential predictor of post‐operative apathy in patients with diffuse frontal gliomas undergoing awake brain mapping.
Epistemic othering: the interplay of knowledges in legislative drafting
Authors: NIEMINEN KATI , SARASOJA LAURA
Published: September 2023

In this article, we use the concept of epistemic othering to describe the subjectivation of people who experience debt problems in the legislative drafting process, and argue that the evidence‐based policy paradigm, together with its participatory dimension, produce a potentially harmful subject position for people who are considered vulnerable and irrational. By analysing the preparatory material of Finnish interest rate cap laws, we explore what is constructed as rational and possible in the legislative process, and how these modalities frame the use of expert knowledge. We argue that what is considered rational is constructed in terms of market logic, and what is construed as possible is heavily framed by law‐as‐knowledge. Together, market logic and law‐as‐knowledge form the preconditions for the use of expert knowledge. Ultimately, the way in which these three types of knowledge interact contributes to the epistemic othering of people who experience debt problems.
Challenging the doctrine of “non‐discerning” decision‐making: Investigating the interaction effects of cognitive styles
Authors: Bakken Bjørn Tallak , Hansson Mathias , Hærem Thorvald
Published: September 2023

The impact of intuitive and analytic cognitive styles on task performance is a much‐debated subject in the scientific discourse on decision‐making. In the literature on decision‐making under time pressure, intuition has been regarded as a fast and frugal tool. At the same time, the heuristics and biases tradition sees intuition as a source of errors, implying that more analytic decision‐makers are less biased and better performers. We conducted two studies of the effects of interplay between intuitive and analytic cognitive styles on decision‐making in a simulated wicked learning environment. The results of the first study revealed that the high‐performing individuals were those who exhibited a strong preference for both cognitive styles, as well as those who showed a lack of preference for both. Individuals with a strong preference for only one of the styles were outperformed. In the second study, we replicated these findings in a team context. Post‐hoc, we found that cognitive ability correlated highly with performance for the two high‐performing style combinations but not for the two low‐performing style combinations. Our results indicate that flexible style preferences boost the effect of cognitive ability, while strong preferences for a single style may entrench even those with high cognitive abilities.
Salivary Biomarkers and Temporomandibular Disorders: A Systematic Review conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Zaman Mahmud Uz , Alqhtani Nasser Raqe , Alqahtani Abdullah Saad , Alqahtani Fawaz , Cicciù Marco , Minervini Giuseppe
Published: September 2023

Background

The present review aimed to investigate the association between salivary biomarkers and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD is a multifactorial condition characterised by pain and dysfunction in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding structures. Salivary biomarkers have emerged as potential diagnostic tools due to their non‐invasiveness and easy accessibility. However, the literature on salivary biomarkers in relation to TMD is limited and inconsistent.

Methods

Electronic databases of Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, PsychINFO, CINAHL and Medline were searched using specific search terms and Boolean operators. The search was limited to articles published in English that assessed salivary biomarkers in individuals diagnosed with TMD. Two reviewers independently screened the articles and extracted data. ROB‐2 was used to assess the risk of bias.

Results

Eleven clinical papers met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. The findings provided consistent evidence of a clear association between salivary biomarkers and TMD. Various biomarkers, including cortisol, IL‐1, glutamate and several others, were assessed. Some studies reported higher levels of cortisol and IL‐1 in TMD patients, indicating potential involvement in stress and inflammation. Glutamate levels were found to be elevated, suggesting a role in pain modulation. Other biomarkers also showed alterations in TMD patients compared to controls:

Conclusion

The findings from the included studies suggest that salivary biomarkers may play a role in TMD pathophysiology. Though a definitive conclusion can be drawn regarding the specific salivary biomarkers and their association with TMD, the results must be interpreted with caution considering the heterogeneity of the biomarkers assessed. Further research with larger sample sizes, standardised methodology and rigorous study designs is needed to elucidate the role of salivary biomarkers in TMD.
Biomechanical Comparison between Rotational Scarf Osteotomy and Translational Scarf Osteotomy: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Yue , Wang Feng , Tang Kanglai , Tao Xu
Published: September 2023

Objective

Rotational Scarf osteotomy has its unique advantages in treating hallux valgus, but it also has certain drawbacks. The biomechanical differences between rotational Scarf and translational Scarf osteotomy are not clear evaluates the correction ability and biomechanical difference of two surgical methods for hallux valgus by finite element analysis.

Methods

The computerized tomography data of a hallux valgus patient were selected to establish a finite element model. The standard Scarf osteotomy was simulated based on the model, and the rotation and translation were performed, respectively. The size of the intermetatarsal angle, contact area, distal metatarsal articular angle and the absolute length of the first metatarsal was compared between the two groups. We completed the cartilage, ligament and other tissues on the bone model to establish a full foot model. We analyzed the troughing, plantar aponeurosis tension, plantar soft tissue, and ground stress and also observed the stability of the fracture site by a three‐point bending test.

Results

Both surgical methods may effectively correct the intermetatarsal angle. After rotational osteotomy, the contact area increased, and the length of the first metatarsal bone initially increased and then decreased compared to that in the translational group. Furthermore, rotational Scarf significantly increased the distal metatarsal articular angle. Mechanical analysis showed that the cancellous bone in the contact part of the fracture site in the translation group had greater stress, which was the reason for the occurrence of the troughing. Stress distribution of plantar aponeurosis, plantar soft tissue, and the ground showed no significant difference. The three‐point bending test showed that the separation of the broken ends of the rotational Scarf osteotomy model (0.133 mm) was slightly smaller than the translational group (0.147 mm).

Conclusion

Both surgical methods can successfully correct intermetatarsal angle (IMA). Compared to traditional translational Scarf osteotomy, rotational Scarf osteotomy is more conducive to postoperative stability and healing, but it also has certain drawbacks. In clinical practice, individualized surgical methods still need to be selected for different types of patients with hallux valgus.
Next‐Gen biotherapeutics: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis on postbiotics as treatment for pediatric atopic dermatitis
Authors: Tan Lim Carol Stephanie C. , Sajo Ma. Easter Joy V. , Orteza Khianne Ed Miguel P. , Fernandez Patricia Barbara A. , Vila Ma. Junella C.
Published: September 2023

Background

Due to the recency of the postbiotic field, no head‐to‐head postbiotic studies have investigated its biotherapeutic potential for atopic dermatitis (AD). No network meta‐analysis (NMA) has been conducted to synthesize relevant studies comparing postbiotic interventions for AD.

Objective

To assess the comparative efficacy and safety of postbiotic strains in the treatment of pediatric AD.

Methodology

This was an NMA of randomized controlled studies that evaluated postbiotics in treating pediatric AD. Systematic search of databases and registers from inception to November 30, 2022. Three authors independently performed the search, screening, and appraisal using the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool version 2 and data extraction. Data analysis was performed using STATA14 software.

Results

Nine studies evaluated eight postbiotic preparations. Lactobacillus rhamnosus IDCC 3201 (LR) ranked highest in the efficacy outcome. Compared to placebo, LR may be effective in reducing symptoms of atopic dermatitis in the main analysis (SMD −0.53, 95%CI −1.02 to −0.04) and sensitivity analysis involving studies that used SCORAD (MD −5.52, 95% CI −10.46 to −0.58), based on low‐certainty evidence. Based on moderate‐certainty evidence, LR probably did not increase the risk of adverse events (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.79, 1.21). Although Lactobacillus paracasei GM080 (LP2) ranked highest in the safety outcome, it may not reduce AD symptoms compared to placebo (SMD −0.03, 95% CI −0.37, 0.32) based on low‐certainty evidence.

Conclusion

LR showed significant benefits in children with AD based on low‐certainty evidence. Further investigation of LR is recommended.
Experiential parts
Authors: Chuard Philippe
Published: September 2023

Several disputes about the nature of experience operate under the assumption that experiences have parts, including temporal parts. There's the widely held view, when it comes to temporal experiences, that we should follow James' exhortation that such experiences aren't mere successions of their temporal parts, but something more. And there's the question of whether it is the parts of experiences which determine whole experiences and the properties they have, or whether the determination goes instead from the whole to the parts, as holists have it. But what are parts, or temporal parts, of experiences exactly—what does it mean to say that an experience is “part” of another? Are the participants in those disputes talking about the same thing—is there a univocal notion of “experiential part” available? Are there different kinds of experiential parts? And if there are, is there a systematic way of carving them out? More importantly, how should we conceive of the temporal parts of experiences, and how can we establish that experiences really do have temporal parts, against those who reject the notion?
Impact of ultraviolet radiation on cardiovascular and metabolic disorders: The role of nitric oxide and vitamin D
Authors: Quan Qing‐Ling , Yoon Kyeong‐No , Lee Ji Su , Kim Eun Ju , Lee Dong Hun
Published: September 2023

Background/Purpose

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation has both harmful and beneficial effects on human skin and health. It causes skin damage, aging, and cancer; however, it is also a primary source of vitamin D. Additionally, UV radiation can impact energy metabolism and has protective effects on several cardiovascular and metabolic disorders in mice and humans. However, the mechanisms of UV protection against these diseases have not been clearly identified.

Methods

This review summarizes the systemic effects of UV radiation on hypertension and several metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in mice, and we also consider the mechanisms of action of the related regulators nitric oxide (NO) and vitamin D.

Results

UV exposure can lower blood pressure and prevent the development of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders, such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, primarily through mechanisms that depend on UV‐induced NO. UV radiation may also effectively delay the onset of type 1 diabetes through mechanisms that rely on UV‐induced vitamin D. UV‐induced NO and vitamin D play roles in preventing and slowing the progression of NAFLD.

Conclusion

UV exposure is a promising nonpharmacological intervention for cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. NO and vitamin D may play a crucial role in mediating these effects. However, further investigations are required to elucidate the exact mechanisms and determine the optimal dosage and exposure duration of UV radiation.
Analysis of the histidine kinase gene family and the role of GhHK8 in response to drought tolerance in cotton
Authors: Zhao Lanjie , Wang Yongbo , Cui Ruifeng , Cui Yupeng , Lu Xuke , Chen Xiugui , Wang Junjuan , Wang Delong , Yin Zujun , Wang Shuai , Peng Fanjia , Guo Lixue , Chen Chao , Ye Wuwei
Published: September 2023

As an important member of the two‐component system (TCS), histidine kinases (HKs) play important roles in various plant developmental processes and signal transduction in response to a wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses. So far, the HK gene family has not been investigated in Gossypium. In this study, a total of 177 HK gene family members were identified in cotton. They were further divided into seven groups, and the protein characteristics, genetic relationship, gene structure, chromosome location, collinearity, and cis‐elements identification were comprehensively analyzed. Whole genome duplication (WGD) / segmental duplication may be the reason why the number of HK genes doubled in tetraploid Gossypium species. Expression analysis revealed that most cotton HK genes were mainly expressed in the reproductive organs and the fiber at initial stage. Gene expression analysis revealed that HK family genes are involved in cotton abiotic stress, especially drought stress and salt stress. In addition, gene interaction networks showed that HKs were involved in the regulation of cotton abiotic stress, especially drought stress. VIGS experiments have shown that GhHK8 is a negative regulatory factor in response to drought stress. Our systematic analysis provided insights into the characteristics of the HK genes in cotton and laid a foundation for further exploring their potential in drought stress resistance in cotton.
Insight into the nodal cells transcriptome of the streptophyte green alga Chara braunii S276
Authors: Heß Daniel , Holzhausen Anja , Hess Wolfgang R.
Published: September 2023

Charophyceae are the most complex streptophyte algae, possessing tissue‐like structures, rhizoids and a cellulose‐pectin‐based cell wall akin to embryophytes. Together with the Zygnematophyceae and the Coleochaetophycae, the Charophyceae form a grade in which the Zygnematophyceae share a last common ancestor with land plants. The availability of genomic data, its short life cycle, and the ease of non‐sterile cultivation in the laboratory have made the species Chara braunii an emerging model system for streptophyte terrestrialization and early land plant evolution. In this study, tissue containing nodal cells was prepared under the stereomicroscope, and an RNA‐seq dataset was generated and compared to transcriptome data from whole plantlets. In both samples, transcript coverage was high for genes encoding ribosomal proteins and a homolog of the putative PAX3‐ and PAX7‐binding protein 1. Gene ontology was used to classify the putative functions of the differently expressed genes. In the nodal cell sample, main upregulated molecular functions were related to protein, nucleic acid, ATP‐ and DNA binding. Looking at specific genes, several signaling‐related genes and genes encoding sugar‐metabolizing enzymes were found to be expressed at a higher level in the nodal cell sample, while photosynthesis‐and chloroplast‐related genes were expressed at a comparatively lower level. We detected the transcription of 21 different genes encoding DUF4360‐containing cysteine‐rich proteins. The data contribute to the growing understanding of Charophyceae developmental biology by providing a first insight into the transcriptome composition of Chara nodal cells.
Associations of early life and childhood risk factors with obstructive sleep apnoea in middle‐age
Authors: Senaratna Chamara V. , Lowe Adrian , Walters E. Haydn , Abramson Michael J. , Bui Dinh , Lodge Caroline , Erbas Bircan , Burgess John , Perret Jennifer L. , Hamilton Garun S. , Dharmage Shyamali C.
Published: September 2023

Background and Objective

Early‐life risk factors for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) are poorly described, yet this knowledge may be critical to inform preventive strategies. We conducted the first study to investigate the association between early‐life risk factors and OSA in middle‐aged adults.

Methods

Data were from population‐based Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study cohort (n = 3550) followed from 1st to 6th decades of life. Potentially relevant childhood exposures were available from a parent‐completed survey at age 7‐years, along with previously characterized risk factor profiles. Information on the primary outcome, probable OSA (based on a STOP‐Bang questionnaire cut‐off ≥5), were collected when participants were 53 years old. Associations were examined using logistic regression adjusting for potential confounders. Analyses were repeated using the Berlin questionnaire.

Results

Maternal asthma (OR = 1.5; 95% CI 1.1–2.0), maternal smoking (OR = 1.2; 1.05, 1.5), childhood pleurisy/pneumonia (OR = 1.3; 1.04, 1.7) and frequent bronchitis (OR = 1.2; 1.01, 1.5) were associated with probable OSA. The risk‐factor profiles of ‘parental smoking’ and ‘frequent asthma and bronchitis’ were also associated with probable OSA (OR = 1.3; 1.01, 1.6 and OR = 1.3; 1.01–1.9, respectively). Similar associations were found for Berlin questionnaire‐defined OSA.

Conclusions

We found novel temporal associations of maternal asthma, parental smoking and frequent lower respiratory tract infections before the age of 7 years with adult OSA. While determination of their pathophysiological and any causal pathways require further research, these may be useful to flag the risk of OSA within clinical practice and create awareness and vigilance among at‐risk groups.
Counterfactual thinking may attenuate polarization of COVID‐19 prevention behavior
Authors: García Ferrés Eva A. , DePalma Mary Turner
Published: September 2023

Data from two U.S. online samples (N = 613) indicated that conservatives consistently perceived face mask use as less important than did liberals. This difference was attenuated with high counterfactual engagement. Both studies provide correlational evidence of this robust moderation. Study 2 provides further insight into differences between liberals' and conservatives' emotional responses to COVID‐19 information, and suggests that during on‐going negative events, downward counterfactuals may not provide relief. Overall, these studies document the politicization of public health behavior, and find that emphasizing the causal links between behavior and COVID‐19 prevention may improve conservatives' attitudes toward CDC guidelines.
Disadvantaged and Disadvantaging Regions: Opportunity Structures and Social Disadvantage in Rural Peripheries
Authors: Bernard Josef , Keim‐Klärner Sylvia
Published: September 2023

Regional peripheralisation has been repeatedly described as a process resulting in the combination of regional structural and social disadvantage. In theory, peripheries are characterised by the interdependence of these two types of disadvantage. Few studies have examined this interdependence in rural peripheries across several countries. In this study, we operationalise rural peripherality combining poor opportunity structures that constrain the social and economic opportunities of the local population, and increased concentrations of social disadvantage and decreased quality of life. Comparing Czech and eastern German regions, we uncovered intercorrelated spatial patterns of low education, poor employment quality, deficient labour market opportunity and accessibility to medical, educational and other services, which together represent key aspects of rural peripherality from the perspective of disadvantage. Although there is a clear coincidence of structural and social disadvantage in rural peripheries, neither increased levels of poverty nor long‐term unemployment are typical of these areas.
OPEN leaf: an open‐source cloud‐based phenotyping system for tracking dynamic changes at leaf‐specific resolution in Arabidopsis
Authors: Swartz Landon G. , Liu Suxing , Dahlquist Drew , Kramer Skyler T. , Walter Emily S. , McInturf Samuel A. , Bucksch Alexander , Mendoza‐Cózatl David G.
Published: September 2023

The first draft of the Arabidopsis genome was released more than 20 years ago and despite intensive molecular research, more than 30% of Arabidopsis genes remained uncharacterized or without an assigned function. This is in part due to gene redundancy within gene families or the essential nature of genes, where their deletion results in lethality (i.e., the dark genome). High‐throughput plant phenotyping (HTPP) offers an automated and unbiased approach to characterize subtle or transient phenotypes resulting from gene redundancy or inducible gene silencing; however, access to commercial HTPP platforms remains limited. Here we describe the design and implementation of OPEN leaf, an open‐source phenotyping system with cloud connectivity and remote bilateral communication to facilitate data collection, sharing and processing. OPEN leaf, coupled with our SMART imaging processing pipeline was able to consistently document and quantify dynamic changes at the whole rosette level and leaf‐specific resolution when plants experienced changes in nutrient availability. Our data also demonstrate that VIS sensors remain underutilized and can be used in high‐throughput screens to identify and characterize previously unidentified phenotypes in a leaf‐specific time‐dependent manner. Moreover, the modular and open‐source design of OPEN leaf allows seamless integration of additional sensors based on users and experimental needs.
Dynamic transcriptome landscape of developing maize ear
Authors: Shen Xiaomeng , Xiao Bing , Kaderbek Tangnur , Lin Zhen , Tan Kaiwen , Wu Qingyu , Yuan Lixing , Lai Jinsheng , Zhao Haiming , Song Weibin
Published: September 2023

Seed number and harvesting ability in maize (Zea mays L.) are primarily determined by the architecture of female inflorescence, namely the ear. Therefore, ear morphogenesis contributes to grain yield and as such is one of the key target traits during maize breeding. However, the molecular networks of this highly dynamic and complex grain‐bearing inflorescence remain largely unclear. As a first step toward characterizing these networks, we performed a high‐spatio‐temporal‐resolution investigation of transcriptomes using 130 ear samples collected from developing ears with length from 0.1 mm to 19.0 cm. Comparisons of these mRNA populations indicated that these spatio‐temporal transcriptomes were clearly separated into four distinct stages stages I, II, III, and IV. A total of 23 793 genes including 1513 transcription factors (TFs) were identified in the investigated developing ears. During the stage I of ear morphogenesis, 425 genes were predicted to be involved in a co‐expression network established by eight hub TFs. Moreover, 9714 ear‐specific genes were identified in the seven kinds of meristems. Additionally, 527 genes including 59 TFs were identified as especially expressed in ear and displayed high temporal specificity. These results provide a high‐resolution atlas of gene activity during ear development and help to unravel the regulatory modules associated with the differentiation of the ear in maize.
Proteomes reveal the lipid metabolic network in the complex plastid of Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Huang Teng , Pan Yufang , Maréchal Eric , Hu Hanhua
Published: September 2023

Phaeodactylum tricornutum plastid is surrounded by four membranes, and its protein composition and function remain mysterious. In this study, the P. tricornutum plastid‐enriched fraction was obtained and 2850 proteins were identified, including 92 plastid‐encoded proteins, through label‐free quantitative proteomic technology. Among them, 839 nuclear‐encoded proteins were further determined to be plastidial proteins based on the BLAST alignments within Plant Proteome DataBase and subcellular localization prediction, in spite of the strong contamination by mitochondria‐encoded proteins and putative plasma membrane proteins. According to our proteomic data, we reconstructed the metabolic pathways and highlighted the hybrid nature of this diatom plastid. Triacylglycerol (TAG) hydrolysis and glycolysis, as well as photosynthesis, glycan metabolism, and tocopherol and triterpene biosynthesis, occur in the plastid. In addition, the synthesis of long‐chain acyl‐CoAs, elongation, and desaturation of fatty acids (FAs), and synthesis of lipids including TAG are confined in the four‐layered‐membrane plastid based on the proteomic and GFP‐fusion localization data. The whole process of generation of docosahexaenoic acid (22:6) from palmitic acid (16:0), via elongation and desaturation of FAs, occurs in the chloroplast endoplasmic reticulum membrane, the outermost membrane of the plastid. Desaturation that generates 16:4 from 16:0 occurs in the plastid stroma and outer envelope membrane. Quantitative analysis of glycerolipids between whole cells and isolated plastids shows similar composition, and the FA profile of TAG was not different. This study shows that the diatom plastid combines functions usually separated in photosynthetic eukaryotes, and differs from green alga and plant chloroplasts by undertaking the whole process of lipid biosynthesis.
Regional integration and services in African value chains: Retrospect and prospect
Authors: Shepherd Ben
Published: September 2023

This article takes a first step towards understanding the quantitative evidence on the role of services in African value chains. The available data are largely based on assumptions and modelled estimates, but can nonetheless provide some useful information at an aggregate level. In general, services play an important role in the African regional economy, including through their embodiment in the exports of other sectors through input–output relationships. However, services value chains in the region are mostly composed of domestic value added, and to a lesser extent inputs sourced from global suppliers. There is very little intra‐regional sourcing of services inputs. Simulations using a new quantitative trade model show that intra‐regional sourcing could be increased through a derived demand effect following goods market liberalisation. In the stylized cases examined, increased use of regional services inputs is not at the expense of globally competitive suppliers. As such, it will be important to give a more prominent role to services in discussions of regional integration going forward.
Use of administrative claims data in observational studies of antirheumatic medication effects on pregnancy outcomes: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Tharmarajah Shenthuraan , Guilcher Sara , Santhireswaran Araniy , McCarthy Lisa , Mahendira Dharini , Berger Howard , Tadrous Mina
Published: September 2023

Objective:

The primary objective of this review is to examine which disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics used to treat pregnant individuals with rheumatic conditions have been reported in observational studies using population-based health administrative data. The secondary objective is to describe which adverse pregnancy outcomes (both maternal and neonatal) have been reported, their definitions, and corresponding diagnostic and/or procedural codes.

Introduction:

Pregnant individuals are typically excluded from drug trials due to unknown potential risks to both the pregnant person and fetus, leaving most antirheumatic drugs understudied for use in pregnancy. Despite these substantial knowledge gaps, most pregnant individuals continue to be maintained on antirheumatic medications due to the benefits generally outweighing the risks. In contrast to previous systematic reviews of findings from randomized trials, our scoping review aims to leverage this real-world data to generate real-world evidence of antirheumatic drug safety during pregnancy.

Inclusion criteria:

Articles must report on observational studies using population-based health administrative data from pregnant individuals with rheumatic conditions (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis) receiving antirheumatic drug therapy (DMARDs and biologics). Randomized trials, reviews, case studies, opinion pieces, and abstracts will be excluded.

Methods:

Electronic databases (MEDLINE [Ovid], Embase [Ovid], CINAHL [EBSCOhost]) and gray literature (OpenGrey, Health Services Research Projects in Progress, World Health Organization Library, and Google Scholar) will be searched for relevant evidence. Search terms will combine 4 concepts: rheumatic diseases, drug therapy, pregnancy, and health care administrative data. Identified articles will be independently screened, selected, and extracted by 2 researchers. Data will be analyzed descriptively and presented in tables.

Review registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/5e6tp
Selective mask deposition using SiCl4 plasma for highly selective etching process
Authors: Matsui Miyako , Miura Makoto , Kuwahara Kenichi
Published: September 2023

We developed an area-selective deposition process for forming protective layers on top of masks generated using a microwave electron-cyclotron-resonance etching system. A deposition layer is formed only on SiO2 masks without forming an unnecessary deposition layer on the Si surfaces in the etching area, such as the bottoms of the patterns and isolated etching area. The protection layers were selectively formed on a SiO2 mask without forming on a Si etching area by using a SiCl4/H2/Cl2 plasma. The pretreatment to clean the Si and SiO2 surfaces before deposition was important for achieving selective deposition because selectivity appeared by nucleation delay on the cleaned Si surface. On the Si surface, adsorbed SiClx easily desorbed again by reacting with the Cl generated from the plasma. However, adsorbed SiClx on SiO2 was more difficult to desorb by reacting with Cl due to Si–O having a larger binding energy than Si–Si. After the deposition layer was selectively formed on the SiO2 mask, the layer was oxidized by using O2 plasma treatment to improve the etching resistance during the subsequent Si etching. We also investigated a Si etching process using selective deposition during the etching of a 25 nm-pitch line-and-space Si pattern with a SiO2 mask. Extremely highly selective etching was achieved using selective deposition without forming an unnecessary deposition on an isolated Si area.
Scattering of identical particles by a one-dimensional Dirac delta function barrier potential: The role of statistics
Authors: Berman P. R. , Rojo Alberto G.
Published: September 2023

Scattering of non-interacting, identical bosons or fermions by a one-dimensional Dirac delta function barrier potential underlines the importance of the role of statistics (that is, whether the particles obey Fermi–Dirac or Bose–Einstein statistics) in the scattering. We consider an initial wave function for the system that corresponds to one particle incident from the left and one from the right of the potential barrier. For bosons, both particles are scattered either to the left or to the right if the intensity reflection coefficient is 1/2, provided the left and right propagating wave packets fully overlap in the scattering region. For fermions, the particles “pass through” one another, provided the left and right propagating wave packets fully overlap in the scattering region, with zero probability that both particles are scattered to the left or right, consistent with the Pauli exclusion principle.
An analysis of the large amplitude simple pendulum using Fourier series
Authors: Black Brennen , Vel Vetri
Published: September 2023

The motion of a pendulum is derived using Fourier series and perturbation analysis at levels appropriate for undergraduate physics students. Instead of using the elliptic integral of the first kind, higher order terms of the Taylor-expanded differential equation are considered, leading to increasingly accurate corrections to the period in terms of a single expansion parameter. The relation between the expansion parameter and the initial conditions is not fixed, allowing many solutions to the motion in terms of the expansion parameter but a unique solution in terms of the initial conditions.
A note on combined sliding and rolling friction
Authors: Cross Rod
Published: September 2023

The coefficient of sliding friction is usually regarded as a constant for any given surfaces although it is sometimes known to vary with sliding speed. An experiment is described where the coefficient of friction for a billiard ball decreases to a very small value as the sliding speed decreases to zero, after which the ball starts rolling without sliding. A simple theoretical explanation is provided.
On numerical solutions of the time-dependent Schrödinger equation
Authors: van Dijk Wytse
Published: September 2023

We review an explicit approach to obtaining numerical solutions of the Schrödinger equation that is conceptionally straightforward and capable of significant accuracy and efficiency. The method and its efficacy are illustrated with several examples. Because of its explicit nature, the algorithm can be readily extended to systems with a higher number of spatial dimensions. We show that the method also generalizes the staggered-time approach of Visscher and allows for the accurate calculation of the real and imaginary parts of the wave function separately.
Significant Changes in Resting Metabolic Rate Over a Competitive Match Week Are Accompanied by an Absence of Nutritional Periodization in Male Professional Soccer Players
Authors: Carter Jennie L. , Lee David J. , Perrin Craig G. , Ranchordas Mayur K. , Cole Matthew
Published: September 2023

Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is an important component of total daily energy expenditure; however, it is currently not understood how it varies across a typical competitive match week in professional soccer players. For the first time, we aimed to assess RMR throughout an in-season competitive week in professional soccer players. Additionally, we aimed to assess energy and carbohydrate intake across the same week. Twenty-four professional soccer players from an English Premier League club (age: 18 ± 1.6 years) completed the study. RMR was assessed each morning of a typical competitive match week (match day [MD] −3, −2, −1, +1, +2, and + 3), and dietary intake (including MD) was assessed daily via the remote food photography method and 24-hr recall. Daily training load was quantified using Global Positioning System, daily muscle soreness ratings were recorded, and body composition was assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. There was a significant (p = .0004) increase in mean RMR of ∼261 kcal/day on MD + 1, compared with MD − 1. Additionally, volume of oxygen consumed significantly increased at MD + 1 (p = .0002) versus MD − 1. There were no significant differences in daily energy or carbohydrate intake across the competitive week (p > .05), with inadequate carbohydrate intakes on MD − 1 (∼3.9 g/kg body mass), MD (∼4.2 g/kg body mass), and MD + 1 (∼3.6 g/kg body mass) in relation to current recommendations. We report, for the first time, that RMR is significantly increased following a competitive match in professional soccer players. In addition, we confirm previous findings to reinforce that players exhibit inadequate nutrition periodization practices, which may impair physical performance and recovery.
Short tandem repeats bind transcription factors to tune eukaryotic gene expression
Authors: Horton Connor A. , Alexandari Amr M. , Hayes Michael G. B. , Marklund Emil , Schaepe Julia M. , Aditham Arjun K. , Shah Nilay , Suzuki Peter H. , Shrikumar Avanti , Afek Ariel , Greenleaf William J. , Gordân Raluca , Zeitlinger Julia , Kundaje Anshul , Fordyce Polly M.
Published: September 2023

Short tandem repeats (STRs) are enriched in eukaryotic
cis
-regulatory elements and alter gene expression, yet how they regulate transcription remains unknown. We found that STRs modulate transcription factor (TF)–DNA affinities and apparent on-rates by about 70-fold by directly binding TF DNA-binding domains, with energetic impacts exceeding many consensus motif mutations. STRs maximize the number of weakly preferred microstates near target sites, thereby increasing TF density, with impacts well predicted by statistical mechanics. Confirming that STRs also affect TF binding in cells, neural networks trained only on in vivo occupancies predicted effects identical to those observed in vitro. Approximately 90% of TFs preferentially bound STRs that need not resemble known motifs, providing a
cis
-regulatory mechanism to target TFs to genomic sites.
Impacts of metal mining on river systems: a global assessment
Authors: Macklin M. G. , Thomas C. J. , Mudbhatkal A. , Brewer P. A. , Hudson-Edwards K. A. , Lewin J. , Scussolini P. , Eilander D. , Lechner A. , Owen J. , Bird G. , Kemp D. , Mangalaa K. R.
Published: September 2023

An estimated 23 million people live on floodplains affected by potentially dangerous concentrations of toxic waste derived from past and present metal mining activity. We analyzed the global dimensions of this hazard, particularly in regard to lead, zinc, copper, and arsenic, using a georeferenced global database detailing all known metal mining sites and intact and failed tailings storage facilities. We then used process-based and empirically tested modeling to produce a global assessment of metal mining contamination in river systems and the numbers of human populations and livestock exposed. Worldwide, metal mines affect 479,200 kilometers of river channels and 164,000 square kilometers of floodplains. The number of people exposed to contamination sourced from long-term discharge of mining waste into rivers is almost 50 times greater than the number directly affected by tailings dam failures.