bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An empirical test of the estimation of historical effective population size using Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Novo Irene , Pérez‐Pereira Noelia , Santiago Enrique , Quesada Humberto , Caballero Armando
Published: July 2023

The availability of a large number of high‐density markers (SNPs) allows the estimation of historical effective population size (Ne) from linkage disequilibrium between loci. A recent refinement of methods to estimate historical Ne from the recent past has been shown to be rather accurate with simulation data. The method has also been applied to real data for numerous species. However, the simulation data cannot encompass all the complexities of real genomes, and the performance of any estimation method with real data is always uncertain, as the true demography of the populations is not known. Here, we carried out an experimental design with Drosophila melanogaster to test the method with real data following a known demographic history. We used a population maintained in the laboratory with a constant census size of about 2800 individuals and subjected the population to a drastic decline to a size of 100 individuals. After a few generations, the population was expanded back to the previous size and after a few further generations again expanded to twice the initial size. Estimates of historical Ne were obtained with the software GONE both for autosomal and X chromosomes from samples of 17 individuals sequenced for the whole genome. Estimates of the historical effective size were able to infer the patterns of changes that occurred in the populations showing generally good performance of the method. We discuss the limitations of the method and the application of the software carried out so far.
Circular RNA circ_0000376 promotes paclitaxel resistance and tumorigenesis of non‐small cell lung cancer via positively modulating KPNA4 by sponging miR‐1298‐5p
Authors: Hu Sheng , Zhang Qun , Sun Jian , Xue Jinshan , Wang Can
Published: July 2023

Background

Circ_0000376 could promote non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression; however, the role of circ_0000376 in paclitaxel (PTX) resistance of NSCLC is still unknown.

Methods

Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) and western blot were applied for measuring circ_0000376, microRNA‐1298‐5p (miR‐1298‐5p), and karyopherin subunit alpha 4 (KPNA4) expression. The half inhibitory concentration (IC50) of PTX was assessed by cell counting kit‐8 assay. 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, and flow cytometry were performed to measure the proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of cells. The regulatory mechanisms of circ_0000376, miR‐1298‐5p, and KPNA4 were validated by dual‐luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation assay, and rescue experiments. Xenograft assay was used for the functional analysis of circ_0000376 in vivo.

Results

Circ_0000376 and KPNA4 expressions were upregulated, while miR‐1298‐5p expression was downregulated in PTX‐resistant tissues and cells. Circ_0000376 depletion promoted PTX sensitivity and apoptosis, while suppressing the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PTX‐resistant NSCLC cells. Furthermore, circ_0000376 could modulate KPNA4 expression by sponging miR‐1298‐5p. Rescue experiments showed that miR‐1298‐5p inhibition reversed the circ_0000376 depletion‐mediated anticancer effects and PTX sensitivity. Moreover, miR‐1298‐5p inhibited PTX resistance and tumorigenesis of PTX‐resistant cells, which were abolished by KPNA4 overexpression. In addition, circ_0000376 knockdown suppressed tumor growth and enhanced PTX sensitivity in vivo.

Conclusion

Circ_0000376 facilitated PTX resistance and tumorigenesis of NSCLC by miR‐1298‐5p/KPNA4 axis, suggesting an underlying therapeutic strategy for NSCLC.
Nursing interventions for adult patients undergoing cancer cardiotoxic therapy: Scoping review
Authors: Jesus Evelyn Barcelos , Cavalcanti Ana Carla Dantas , Oliveira Josiana Araujo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To identify nursing interventions for the management of adult patients undergoing cardiotoxic oncologic therapy.

Methods

This scoping review was performed in accordance with the JBI guidelines. The literature search took place between July and August 2022. Studies examining interventions for the management of adult cancer patients undergoing cardiotoxic therapy were included. The characteristics and results of the studies were synthesized and analyzed in a narrative way.

Findings

In the nine included studies, it was verified that the interventions were implemented to guide the actions of the health team in general rather than specifically nursing staff. Nine nursing interventions related to the Classification of Nursing Interventions were included.

Conclusions

The nursing interventions identified focused on rigorous cardiovascular surveillance, risk assessment, and actions to identify and mitigate cardiotoxicity.

Implications for Nursing Practice

It is believed that the implementation of the identified nursing interventions will lead to evidence‐based nursing practice and will contribute to the development of care products and processes that assess the cardiological risks and cardiotoxicity.
Greece: Political Developments and Data in 2022
Authors: MYLONAS HARRIS
Published: July 2023

The year 2022 was marked by the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In February, the Greek government was quick to respond in support of the Ukrainian people defending their homeland. The city of Mariupol, home to a significant Greek diasporic community, was at the epicenter of the public's attention. Energy prices skyrocketed because of the war. Inflation, which was already at 5 per cent—the highest point in a decade—by the end of 2021, continued to soar reaching 12 per cent in the summer and an overall 7.2 per cent by the end of the year. Gross domestic product per capita increased at a faster rate than expected, but the trade deficit of the country also increased dramatically. The government continued to deal with the devastating impact of the pandemic. In May, Prime Minister (PM) Mitsotakis became the first Greek head of government to address a joint session of the US Congress at a time when Greek–Turkish relations deteriorated. In July, a wiretapping scandal targeting one of the opposition leaders, but also journalists, shook the political system and unseated the head of the National Intelligence Service, as well as the PM's general secretary, who was overseeing the agency. In December, Member of the European Parliament Eva Kaili was arrested and jailed in a Belgian prison as part of the so‐called Qatargate scandal. The ruling party, New Democracy, remained hegemonic. The main opposition party, the Coalition of the Radical Left, SYRIZA, continued to struggle. Finally, a staggering number of femicides occurred in 2022, 16 in total.
E‐cigarette support for smoking cessation: Identifying the effectiveness of intervention components in an on‐line randomized optimization experiment
Authors: Kimber Catherine , Sideropoulos Vassilis , Cox Sharon , Frings Daniel , Naughton Felix , Brown Jamie , McRobbie Hayden , Dawkins Lynne
Published: July 2023

Aims, Design and Setting

The aim of this study was to determine which combination(s) of five e‐cigarette‐orientated intervention components, delivered on‐line, affect smoking cessation. An on‐line (UK) balanced five‐factor (2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2 = 32 intervention combinations) randomized factorial design guided by the multi‐phase optimization strategy (MOST) was used.

Participants

A total of 1214 eligible participants (61% female; 97% white) were recruited via social media.

Interventions

The five on‐line intervention components designed to help smokers switch to exclusive e‐cigarette use were: (1) tailored device selection advice; (2) tailored e‐liquid nicotine strength advice; (3): tailored e‐liquid flavour advice; (4) brief information on relative harms; and (5) text message (SMS) support.

Measurements

The primary outcome was 4‐week self‐reported complete abstinence at 12 weeks post‐randomization. Primary analyses were intention‐to‐treat (loss to follow‐up recorded as smoking). Logistic regressions modelled the three‐ and two‐way interactions and main effects, explored in that order.

Findings

In the adjusted model the only significant interaction was a two‐way interaction, advice on flavour combined with text message support, which increased the odds of abstinence (odds ratio = 1.55, 95% confidence interval = 1.13–2.14, P = 0.007, Bayes factor = 7.25). There were no main effects of the intervention components.

Conclusions

Text‐message support with tailored advice on flavour is a promising intervention combination for smokers using an e‐cigarette in a quit attempt.
Quantitative analysis of the distribution of the myenteric plexus in the rabbit large intestine
Authors: Kigata Tetsuhito , Koyama Tatsuhiro , Lu Xizi , Shibata Hideshi
Published: July 2023

Rabbit large intestine has a segment‐specific morphology and motility. However, the morphological features of the myenteric plexus, which controls intestinal motility, have not been characterized in each large intestinal segment. We investigated the myenteric plexus morphology in the rabbit large intestine using protein gene product 9.5 immunohistochemistry in whole‐mount preparations. The tenial part of the first and second segments of the proximal colon had the most well developed myenteric plexus, while the caecum had the least. These findings suggest different neuronal control over the motility of each intestinal segment, thereby providing a fundamental understanding of the rabbit enteric nervous system.
Stratification economics in the land of persistent inequalities
Authors: Monroy‐Gómez‐Franco Luis , Villagómez‐Ornelas Paloma
Published: July 2023

Stratification economics has emerged as a field that puts historically and institutionally determined intergroup hierarchies at the forefront of distributive analysis. However, most of the existing theoretical and empirical literature has focused on studying the US stratification regime, limiting the potential application of this analytical framework to other geographies. This paper applies the theoretical framework of stratification economics to analyze the Mexican distributive regime. In the process, we show that expanding the regional focus of stratification economics requires incorporating several insights from other traditions of stratification analysis. Furthermore, we show that a stratification economics approach overcomes several pitfalls of more traditional approaches to analyzing the Mexican distributive regime, such as the human capital approach that anchored several public policy interventions deployed at the beginning of the XXIst century.
Improved ambient air quality is associated with decreased prevalence of childhood asthma and infancy shortly after weaning is a sensitive exposure window
Authors: Chen Tianyi , Shi Su , Li Xinyue , Zhou Lu , Yu Yongfu , Cai Yunfei , Wang Jing , Kan Haidong , Xu Yanyi , Huang Chen , Tan Yongqiang , Meng Xia , Zhao Zhuohui
Published: July 2023

Background

The urban ambient air quality has been largely improved in the past decade. It is unknown whether childhood asthma prevalence is still increasing in ever top‐ranking city of Shanghai, whether the improved air quality is beneficial for children's asthma and what time window of exposure plays critical roles.

Methods

Using a repeat cross‐sectional design, we analyzed the association between early life exposure to particles and wheezing/asthma in each individual and combined surveys in 2011 and 2019, respectively, in 11,825 preschool children in Shanghai.

Results

A significantly lower prevalence of doctor‐diagnosed asthma (DDA) (6.6% vs. 10.5%, p < 0.001) and wheezing (10.5% vs. 23.2%, p < 0.001) was observed in 2019 compared to 2011. Exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), coarse particles (PM2.5–10) and inhalable particles (PM10) was decreased in 2019 by 6.3%, 35.4%, and 44.7% in uterus and 24.3%, 20.2%, and 31.8% in infancy, respectively. Multilevel log‐binomial regression analysis showed exposure in infancy had independent association with wheezing/DDA adjusting for exposure in uterus. For each interquartile range (IQR) increase of infancy PM2.5, PM2.5–10 and PM10 exposure, the odds ratios were 1.39 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.24–1.56), 1.51 (95% CI:1.15–1.98) and 1.53 (95% CI:1.27–1.85) for DDA, respectively. The distributed lag non‐linear model showed the sensitive exposure window (SEW) was 5.5–11 months after birth. Stratified analysis showed the SEWs were at or shortly after weaning, but only in those with <6 months of exclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusions

Improved ambient PM benefits in decreasing childhood asthma prevalence. We firstly reported the finding of SEW to PM at or closely after weaning on childhood asthma.
(Com)passionate Revanchism and the Role ofPrivate‐SectorCoalitions in the Spatial Management of Houselessness
Authors: Anderson Matthew B. , Staal Anna , Mutungi Della , Gower Katie , Agyei Christabel
Published: July 2023

The study examines compassionate revanchism as a contemporary feature of houseless management in the context of an emergent phenomenon: the formation of private‐sector coalitions as coordinating leaders in houseless management. We deconstruct compassionate revanchist discourse through a comparative analysis between the Oregon Harbor of Hope in Portland, OR, and the Hello for Good Coalition in Spokane, WA. As such, the study responds to recent calls for more research on under‐studied cities such as Spokane, where rates of houselessness have spiked in recent years. In the process, it critically examines recent proclamations of an emergent “post‐revanchist” city and concludes by arguing that we are currently at a crossroads whereby the impulse to “take back the city” for propertied interests is either compassionately tempered and/or passionately reinvoked, and that the practices taken by such private‐sector coalitions, and how genuinely compassionate they are, manifest in variegated ways across socio‐spatial contexts.
Current status and future potential of ex vivo lung perfusion in clinical lung transplantation
Authors: Zhou Alice L. , Larson Emily L. , Ruck Jessica M. , Ha Jinny S. , Casillan Alfred J. , Bush Errol L.
Published: July 2023

Lung transplantation is accepted as a well‐established and effective treatment for patients with end‐stage lung disease. While the number of candidates added to the waitlist continues to rise, the number of transplants performed remains limited by the number of suitable organ donors. Ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) emerged as a method of addressing the organ shortage by allowing the evaluation and potential reconditioning of marginal donor lungs or minimizing risks of prolonged ischemic time due to logistical challenges. The currently available FDA‐approved EVLP systems have demonstrated excellent outcomes in clinical trials, and retrospective studies have demonstrated similar post‐transplant survival between recipients who received marginal donor lungs perfused using EVLP and recipients who received standard criteria lungs stored using conventional methods. Despite this, widespread utilization has plateaued in the last few years, likely due to the significant costs associated with initiating EVLP programs. Centralized, dedicated EVLP perfusion centers are currently being investigated as a potential method of further expanding utilization of this technology. In the preclinical setting, potential applications of EVLP that are currently being studied include prolongation of organ preservation, reconditioning of unsuitable lungs, and further enhancement of already suitable lungs. As adoption of EVLP technology becomes more widespread, we may begin to see future implementation of these potential applications into the clinical setting.
Analyzing Clustered Continuous Response Variables with Ordinal Regression Models
Authors: Tian Yuqi , Shepherd Bryan E. , Li Chun , Zeng Donglin , Schildcrout Jonathan S.
Published: July 2023

Continuous response data are regularly transformed to meet regression modeling assumptions. However, approaches taken to identify the appropriate transformation can be ad hoc and can increase model uncertainty. Further, the resulting transformations often vary across studies leading to difficulties with synthesizing and interpreting results. When a continuous response variable is measured repeatedly within individuals or when continuous responses arise from clusters, analyses have the additional challenge caused by within-individual or within-cluster correlations. We extend a widely used ordinal regression model, the cumulative probability model (CPM), to fit clustered, continuous response data using generalized estimating equations for ordinal responses. With the proposed approach, estimates of marginal model parameters, cumulative distribution functions, expectations, and quantiles conditional on covariates can be obtained without pretransformation of the response data. While computational challenges arise with large numbers of distinct values of the continuous response variable, we propose feasible and computationally efficient approaches to fit CPMs under commonly used working correlation structures. We study finite sample operating characteristics of the estimators via simulation and illustrate their implementation with two data examples. One studies predictors of CD4:CD8 ratios in a cohort living with HIV, and the other investigates the association of a single nucleotide polymorphism and lung function decline in a cohort with early chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Incidence and predictors of hypophosphataemia after ferric carboxymaltose use—A 3‐year experience from a single institution in Singapore
Authors: Chu Zachary , Cushway Tim , Wong Marc , Lim Kai‐Xiong , Peh Wee‐Ming , Ng Choong‐Tatt , Lim Wan‐Yen , Ong Sharon G. K. , Tey Tze‐Tong , Foo Fung‐Joon , Koh Frederick H.
Published: July 2023

Ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) administration helps reduce transfusion requirements in the perioperative situation, which improves patient outcomes and reduces healthcare costs. However, there is increasing evidence of hypophosphataemia after FCM use. We aim to determine the incidence of hypophosphataemia after FCM administration and elucidate potential biochemical factors associated with the development of subsequent hypophosphataemia. A retrospective review of anonymised data of all FCM administrations in a single institution was conducted from August 2018 to August 2021. Each unique FCM dose administered was examined to assess its effect on Hb and serum phosphate levels within the subsequent 28 days from each FCM administration. Phosphate levels were repeatedly measured within the 28‐day interval and the lowest phosphate level within that period was determined. Patients' serum phosphate levels within 28 days of FCM administration were compared against normal serum phosphate levels within 2 weeks before FCM administration. The odds ratios of various pre‐FCM serum markers were calculated to elucidate potential biochemical predictors of post‐FCM hypophosphataemia. In 3 years, a total of 1296 doses of FCM were administered to 1069 patients. The mean improvement in Hb was 2.45 g/dL (SD = 1.94) within 28 days of FCM administration, with the mean time taken to peak Hb levels being 6.3 days (SD = 8.63), which is earlier than expected, but was observed in this study and hence reported. The incidence of hypophosphataemia <0.8 mmol/L was 22.7% (n = 186), and <0.4 mmol/L was 1.6% (n = 9). This figure is lower than the numbers reported in previously published meta‐analyses given that routine checks of serum phosphate levels were not conducted initially and hence could possibly be higher. The odds of developing hypophosphataemia (<0.8 mmol/L) were 27.7 (CI: 17.3–44.2, p < 0.0001) if baseline serum phosphate was less than 1 mmol/L. The odds of developing hypophosphataemia (<0.8 mmol/L) were 1.3 (CI: 1.08–1.59, p < 0.01) if the change in Hb levels observed after FCM administration were more than 4 g/dL. Hypophosphataemia after FCM administration is significant and FCM should be used by clinicians with caution.
Real‐world evidence of incidence and outcomes of aplastic anaemia following administration of immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Dasari Srilatha , Tse William , Wang Jiasheng
Published: July 2023

Aplastic anaemia (AA) is a rare immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) after immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) administration with poorly understood incidence and outcomes. We analysed an electronic health record database of 52 303 ICI‐treated patients and found 77 (0.15%) cases of AA, with a median onset of 126 days (interquartile range, 58–363 days). The most used treatment for AA was systemic glucocorticoids 60 (77.9%) and 32 (41.6%) patients were able to resume ICI within 1 year. Patients diagnosed with AA had a steep decline in overall survival (OS) within the first 120 days; when compared to propensity score‐matched patients without AA, they had a significantly worse OS (hazard ratio 1.72, 95% confidence interval 1.19–2.50; p = 0.003).
Amentoflavone attenuates cell proliferation and induces ferroptosis in human gastric cancer by miR‐496/ATF2 axis
Authors: Tang Fengying , Xu Yongpan , Gao Erpeng , Zhang Wei , Zhang Fengli , Xiang Yi , Xu Lixiaoyuan , Dong Fen
Published: July 2023

Amentoflavone (AF) is a natural multifunctional biflavonoid that has been revealed to possess multiple biological activities, including anticancer activity. Here, this work focused on exploring the functions and mechanism of AF in gastric cancer (GC). Levels of genes and proteins were examined by quantitative real‐time PCR and western blotting. Cell proliferation and cell death were analyzed using cell counting kit‐8, colony formation, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay, respectively. Cell ferroptosis was evaluated by detecting the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), Fe2+, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The binding between miR‐496 and activating transcription factor 2 (ATF2) was confirmed by using dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Murine xenograft assay was conducted for in vivo experiments. The results showed that AF suppressed the proliferation and induced ferroptotic cell death in GC cells. MiR‐496 expression was decreased in GC tissues and cells, and AF treatment increased miR‐496 expression level in GC cells. Functionally, miR‐496 inhibition reversed the inhibitory effects of AF on GC cell proliferation and promoting effects on ferroptotic cell death. Mechanistically, ATF2 was targeted by miR‐496. ATF2 expression was increased in GC tissues and cells, which was decreased by AF treatment and subsequently rescued by miR‐496 downregulation in GC cells. Moreover, miR‐496 overexpression suppressed the proliferation and induced ferroptotic cell death in GC cells via targeting ATF2. In all, AF suppressed the proliferation and induced ferroptotic cell death in GC cells via miR‐496/ATF2 axis, indicating a novel therapeutic approach for GC patients.
Treating children's aggressive behavior problems using cognitive behavior therapy with virtual reality: A multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Alsem Sophie C. , van Dijk Anouk , Verhulp Esmée E. , Dekkers Tycho J. , De Castro Bram O.
Published: July 2023

This multicenter randomized controlled trial investigated whether interactive virtual reality enhanced effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to reduce children's aggressive behavior problems. Boys with aggressive behavior problems (N = 115; Mage = 10.58, SD = 1.48; 95.7% born in Netherlands) were randomized into three groups: CBT with virtual reality, CBT with roleplays, or care‐as‐usual. Bayesian analyses showed that CBT with virtual reality more likely reduced aggressive behavior compared to care‐as‐usual for six of seven outcomes (ds 0.19–0.95), and compared to CBT with roleplays for four outcomes (ds 0.14–0.68). Moreover, compared to roleplays, virtual reality more likely enhanced children's emotional engagement, practice immersion, and treatment appreciation. Thus, virtual reality may be a promising tool to enhance CBT effectiveness for children with aggressive behavior problems.
Association between abdominal muscle stiffness, diaphragm thickness and peak expiratory flow in younger versus older adults
Authors: Lim Youngeun , Do Yerim , Lee Haneul
Published: July 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate forced expiration based on transverse abdominis (TrA) stiffness by identifying the relationship between TrA stiffness and peak expiratory flow (PEF) in both younger and older adults. We also assessed the relationship between diaphragm thickness and PEF. A total of 31 younger (21.24 ± 2.73 years) and 34 older (71.35 ± 5.26 years) adults were included in the present study. TrA muscle stiffness was measured at rest and during abdominal bracing using shear wave elastography. Diaphragm thickness was measured during deep inspiration and expiration using B‐mode ultrasound, and respiratory function was assessed by measuring PEF using a spirometer. We found that TrA stiffness during bracing was significantly lower in older than younger adults (p < 0.05). Similarly, the difference in absolute stiffness of the TrA when bracing versus at rest was significantly lower in older than younger adults (p < 0.05). Additionally, TrA stiffness during bracing was positively associated with PEF in the younger group (r = 0.483), while a very weak correlation was found in the older group (r = 0.172). Similarly, PEF was moderately correlated with diaphragm thickness during expiration as well as during changes between inspiration and expiration in the younger group (r = 0.405 and r = 0.403); however, no significant correlation was found in the older group. These findings of the present study indicate that the variations in PEF between younger and older adults may be due to age‐associated changes in the musculoskeletal structure and muscle fibre type.
Environmental tax incentives and corporate environmental behaviour: An unintended consequence from a natural experiment in China
Authors: Boubaker Sabri , Cheng Feiyang , Liao Jing , Yue Shuai
Published: July 2023

Using the implementation of the Environmental Protection Tax (EPT) Law in China as a natural experiment, we explore the impact of environmental tax incentives on corporate environmental engagement. Evidence shows that, after the implementation of the EPT Law, there exists a significant improvement in the environmental performance of firms located in regions with increased EPT rates. However, our results reveal an unintended consequence that this effect is more salient for nonheavy‐polluting companies rather than for heavy polluters that are more targeted by the EPT Law.
Microbial community and network differently reshaped by crushed straw or biochar incorporation and associated with nitrogen fertilizer level
Authors: Song Tianshu , Wang Junkai , Xu Xiyao , Sun Caixia , Sun Chen , Chen Zihao , Zhang Yulan , Hao Liying
Published: July 2023

Straw returning has been demonstrated as a beneficial approach for the utilization of renewable biomass source, which contributes to reducing environmental pollution and strengthening the sustainability of agriculture. However, information on how microorganisms respond to different straw return modes (SRMs) at varying nitrogen fertilizer levels (NFLs) in the black soil is still limited. The community composition, network pattern, and modular function of bacteria and fungi are investigated under three SRMs, including straw removal (CK), crushed straw incorporation (SD), and biochar incorporation (BC) at three NFLs (0, 144, and 240 kg N ha−1, respectively) mainly using Illumina MiSeq technique based on a long‐term maize field experiment. Results showed that bacterial richness, diversity, and fungal richness decreased with NFL reduction. However, these decreases can be compensated by SD and BC, demonstrating superiority for BC at reduced NFLs. SD and BC differed in their effects on the bacterial and fungal abundances (showing increments only in SD) and fungal Shannon diversity (remaining stable only in BC irrespective of NFLs). Microbial communities were substantially affected by SRMs and interacted with NFLs, which were driven by soil NH4+‐N, available potassium, total nitrogen, and pH. In addition, SD induced a network characterized by its highly complex (average degree 10.259 vs. 3.364) and stable structure (average clustering coefficient 0.503 vs. 0.239), Ascomycota as predominating keystone taxa, and abundant N‐cycling related bacteria, while BC formed a network comprising a superior modular structure (modularity 2.599 vs. 0.912), dominant symbiotic fungi, and soil bulk density as specific shaping factor, indicating that network pattern, keystone taxa, modular function, and determining factors shifted between SD and BC co‐occurrence networks. These results deepen insights into the response divergence of bacteria and fungi to SRMs and NFLs, providing a scientific basis for selecting the suitable strategy for sustainable straw utilization in the black soil area.
Intraductal neoplasms of the pancreatobiliary tract: navigating the alphabet
Authors: Xue Yue , Basturk Olca
Published: July 2023

Cancers of the pancreatobiliary tract are diseases with unfavourable prognoses. In the last couple of decades, two types of lesions have been described as precursors that precede pancreatobiliary cancers. These include incidental microscopic (flat) lesions known as pancreatic intra‐epithelial neoplasia and biliary intra‐epithelial neoplasia, and grossly visible, mass‐forming lesions (tumoral intra‐epithelial neoplasia) including intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms, intraductal oncocytic papillary neoplasms, intraductal tubulopapillary neoplasms, intraductal papillary neoplasms of the bile duct and intracholecystic papillary neoplasms. Early detection and adequate treatment of these precursor lesions, especially the second group, have the potential to prevent pancreatobiliary cancer or at least improve its prognosis. In this review, we discuss their histopathology and recent updates on molecular profiling of these intraductal neoplasms of the pancreatobiliary tract.
Encapsulation, characterisation and incorporation of chebulagic acid from beleric (Terminalia Bellirica) fruits in orange juice
Authors: Guggilla Mrudula , Chow Sek Chuen , Siow Lee Fong
Published: July 2023

Chebulagic acid (CA), found in beleric (Terminalia bellirica) fruit powder, has various biological activities. This study aims to encapsulate CA to overcome its solubility, astringency and bitter taste issues and determine its properties. The encapsulated chebulagic acid (ECA) was incorporated into orange juice (OR), and a storage stability study at ambient temperature (25 ± 2 °C) and sensory analysis using a 9‐point hedonic scale were conducted. The highest encapsulation efficiency (89.24% ± 0.08%), antioxidant activity (96.82% ± 0.03%) and considerable powder yield (~59.3% ± 1.07%) with better water absorption index (0.64 ± 0.008 g/g), water solubility index (98.04 ± 0.016/100 g) and swelling capacity (0.055 ± 0.002 g/g) were achieved at 140 °C spray drying temperature with 60% maltodextrin and 40% gum Arabic. At the ambient storage conditions (25 ± 2 °C), the storage stability of ECA was 640 days (54.19% ± 0.02%), CA was 130 days (52.46% ± 0.14%) and the addition of ECA increased the OR's storage stability to 200 days (50.13% ± 0.59%) with respect to the antioxidant activity. From the sensory evaluation, the OR and OR added with 0.2 g/100 mL ECA samples were preferred by the 100 panellists and liked immensely. Overall, the encapsulation of CA successfully masked the astringency and bitterness, improving the CA's stability and increasing the orange juice's storage stability with more consumer acceptability.
Electronic phenotypes to distinguish clinician attention to high body mass index, hypertension, lipid disorders, fatty liver and diabetes in pediatric primary care: Diagnostic accuracy of electronic phenotypes compared to masked comprehensive chart review
Authors: Turer Christy B. , Park Jenny J. , Gupta Olga T. , Ramirez Charina , Basit Mujeeb A. , Heitjan Daniel F. , Barlow Sarah E.
Published: July 2023

Background/Objectives

Electronic phenotyping is a method of using electronic‐health‐record (EHR) data to automate identifying a patient/population with a characteristic of interest. This study determines validity of using EHR data of children with overweight/obesity to electronically phenotype evidence of clinician ‘attention’ to high body mass index (BMI) and each of four distinct comorbidities.

Methods

We built five electronic phenotypes classifying 2‐18‐year‐old children with overweight/obesity (n = 17,397) by electronic/health‐record evidence of distinct attention to high body mass index, hypertension, lipid disorders, fatty liver, and prediabetes/diabetes. We reviewed, selected and cross‐checked random charts to define items clinicians select in EHRs to build problem lists, and to order medications, laboratory tests and referrals to electronically classify attention to overweight/obesity and each comorbidity. Operating characteristics of each clinician‐attention phenotype were determined by comparing comprehensive chart review by reviewers masked to electronic classification who adjudicated evidence of clinician attention to high BMI and each comorbidity.

Results

In a random sample of 817 visit‐records reviewed/coded, specificity of each electronic phenotype is 99%–100% (with PPVs ranging from 96.8% for prediabetes/diabetes to 100% for dyslipidemia and hypertension). Sensitivities of the attention classifications range from 69% for hypertension (NPV, 98.9%) to 84.7% for high‐BMI attention (NPV, 92.3%).

Conclusions

Electronic phenotypes for clinician attention to overweight/obesity and distinct comorbidities are highly specific, with moderate (BMI) to modest (each comorbidity) sensitivity. The high specificity supports using phenotypes to identify children with prior high‐BMI/comorbidity attention.
HR managers stereotyping frontline managers
Authors: Boehme Laura , Russ‐Eft Darlene , Rovens John , Rovens Andrew
Published: July 2023

This study explored how human resource (HR) leaders' biased perceptions of frontline manager (FLM) effectiveness influence HR ratings of FLM competencies, resulting in insufficient training and job preparation for these critical employees. The literature review examined FLM research, ratings of supervisory competencies and the underlying theoretical frameworks of implicit leadership theory and leadership categorization theory, and their relationship to informal learning. The research used mixed methods, with a qualitative critical incident study to identify competencies, followed by a quantitative survey to compare ratings, followed by qualitative in‐person interviews to confirm survey findings. Results revealed a significant difference between HR and other raters of FLMs, including the FLMs themselves, with regard to FLM effectiveness, and these differences are informed by HR stereotypes of FLMs. Recommendations and implications suggest HR's role in providing unbiased assessment could lead to essential FLM training and development.
Power resources for disempowered workers? Re‐conceptualizing the power and potential of consumers in app‐based food delivery
Authors: Goods Caleb , Veen Alex , Barratt Tom , Smith Brett
Published: July 2023

Consumers play an integral role in the labor process of app‐based food delivery services through their consumption behaviors and performance ratings of workers. Some therefore see them as a potential ally of workers, whereas others view them as beholden by capital. This quantitative study uses power resource theory and a Rasch model to appraise consumers' understandings and attitudes toward working conditions in this segment of the “gig” economy. Drawing on two surveys of 1820 Australian consumers, we find that consumers are a potential yet heterogenous coalitional power resource who may align with workers on certain entitlements like minimum wages.
The digital augmentation of extremism: Reviewing and guiding online extremism research from a sociotechnical perspective
Authors: Risius Marten , Blasiak Kevin M. , Wibisono Susilo , Louis Winnifred R.
Published: July 2023

Online extremism remains a persistent problem despite the best efforts of governments, tech companies and civil society. Digital technologies can induce group polarization to promote extremism and cause substantial changes to extremism (e.g., create new forms of extremism, types of threats or radicalization approaches). Current methods to counter extremism induce undesirable side‐effects (e.g., ostracize minorities, inadvertently promote extremism) or do not leverage the full potential of digital technologies. Extremism experts recognize the need for researchers from other disciplines, like information systems, to contribute their technical expertise for understanding and countering online extremism. This article aims to introduce the field of information systems to the issue of online extremism. Information systems scholars address technology‐related societal issues from a sociotechnical perspective. The sociotechnical perspective describes systems through a series of interactions between social (structure, people) and technical components (physical system, task). We apply the sociotechnical perspective to (1) summarize the current state‐of‐the‐art knowledge of 222 articles in a systematic multi‐disciplinary literature review and (2) propose specific research questions that address two questions (How do digital technologies augment extremism? How can we successfully counter online extremism?).
Enhanced energy‐storage properties in Zr4+‐modified (Bi0.4Ba0.2K0.2Na0.2)TiO3 high‐entropy ceramics
Authors: Ye Wenhui , Yan Bo , Ma Jinxu , He Qiang , An Linan , Chen Kepi
Published: July 2023

Recently, high‐entropy perovskite oxides (HEPOs) have received increasing interest for energy storage applications owing to their unique structure, huge composition space, and promising properties. However, designing HEPOs with improved energy storage performance remains a challenge. In this study, various HEPOs were designed by partially replacing Zr4+ for Ti4+ in (Bi0.4Ba0.2K0.2Na0.2)TiO3 medium‐entropy ferroelectric ceramics. The resulting ceramics exhibited a pseudo‐cubic structure. With increasing Zr4+ content, the ceramics gradually transformed into relaxor ferroelectrics. The energy storage performance of the ceramics depended on the Zr4+ content. The sample with 20 mol% Zr4+ showed the best energy storage performance with a maximum reversible energy density of 2.47 J/cm3 and an energy storage efficiency of 82.3% at a low applied electric field (224 kV/cm). This study obtained a promising material for the new generation dielectric energy storage capacitors and provided a novel method for enhancing energy storage performance.
Advanced practice nursing in Europe—Results from a pan‐European survey of 35 countries
Authors: De Raeve Paul , Davidson Patricia M. , Bergs Jochen , Patch Michelle , Jack Susan M. , Castro‐Ayala Adriana , Xyrichis Andreas , Preston Wendy
Published: July 2023

Aim

To report the results of a mapping exercise by the European Federation of Nurses on current advanced practice nursing frameworks and developments across Europe.

Design

Online, cross‐sectional, questionnaire study.

Methods

An online questionnaire was distributed among 35 national nurses' associations across Europe in March 2021. The questionnaire solicited input on 60 items concerning key features of advanced practice nursing, intending to map existing developments and better understand the current state of advanced practice nursing in Europe. Data analysis used descriptive statistics, including counts and percentages, tabulation; open‐text responses were handled with thematic synthesis techniques.

Results

The definition, sense‐making and operationalization of advanced practice nursing vary across Europe. Important variations were noted in the definition and requirements of advanced practice nursing, resulting in different views on the competencies and scope of practice associated with this role. Importantly, the level of education and training required to qualify and practice as an advanced practice nurse varies across European countries. Furthermore, only 11 countries reported the existence of a national legislation establishing minimum educational requirements.

Conclusion

Significant variation exists in how countries define advanced practice nursing and how it is regulated at academic and practice levels. More research is needed to clarify whether this variation results from designing models of advanced practice nursing that work in different contexts; and what impact a standardized regulatory framework could have to grow the volume of advanced practice nurses across Europe.

Impact

The current paper exposes the lack of clarity on the development and implementation of advanced practice nursing across Europe. We found significant variation in the definition, recognition, regulation and education of advanced practice nurses. Our data are essential to policymakers, professional associations and employers to ensure a coordinated and systematic effort in the consistency and ongoing development of advanced practice nurses across Europe.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution applied; the participants were national nurses' associations.
Is surface roughness of direct resin composite restorations material and polisher‐dependent? A systematic review
Authors: Devlukia Shalini , Hammond Lucy , Malik Khalid
Published: July 2023

Statement of Problem

Direct resin composite bonding offers a highly esthetic, minimally invasive option for the treatment of anterior teeth however the challenge to improve their longevity remains. Direct resin composite restorations are limited by the risk of staining which may be influenced by the final surface roughness (Ra) of composite achieved.

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to investigate, using a systematic approach, whether the final surface roughness of anterior composite restorations is affected by the interaction between resin composite and polishing systems.

Materials and Methods

The review was conducted by 3 independent reviewers and included articles published up to January 21, 2021. Three electronic databases were searched: Medline, Embase, and Web of Science. Studies assessing a quantitative effect of polishing methods on the Ra of direct composite resin materials published after the year 2000 and restricted to the English language were included.

Results

The database search for the effect of polishing systems on composite materials retrieved 125 eligible studies. Twelve duplicate records were removed. The resulting records were screened using title and abstract leading to 38 reports which were sought for retrieval. Application of eligibility criteria led to 11 studies included in the review. Hand searching of these studies yielded no additional papers.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to determine whether combination of composite and polisher influences final Ra. More research is required to determine if there is an optimum combination of polisher and composite.

Clinical Implications

Polishing should be completed following planned finishing procedures. The approximation to the final surface and which finishing burs to use, if any, should be considered when planning a restoration. Durafill VS predictably achieves an acceptable Ra by different polishers.
Development and assessment of relative validity and reliability of the Workplace Beverage Intake Questionnaire in UK office workers
Authors: Rogerson Georgia , Xu Yifan , Whelan Megan , Gibson Rachel
Published: July 2023

Background

There are no beverage measurement tools evaluated for use in UK working‐age adults. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a novel beverage intake questionnaire.

Methods

A 57‐item online tool (Workplace Beverage Intake Questionnaire [WBIQ]) was developed through stakeholder consensus. Relative validity was measured against 7‐day food records, and reliability was tested across three time points. Evaluation outcomes of interest were total beverage intake and beverage intake during working hours, intake from seven beverage categories (plain water, sugar sweetened, low/zero calorie, tea, coffee, milk based and 100% fruit based) and energy, caffeine and free sugar intake from beverages. Reliability was determined by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and validity via correlation analyses and visual assessment of Bland–Altman plots.

Results

The evaluation study population comprised office workers (n = 71, 74.6% women, mean age: 32, standard deviation: 8.5 years). The WBIQ had moderate reliability (ICC: 0.50–0.75) across total fluid intake and all beverage categories except milk‐based drinks and 100% fruit‐based drinks where it was rated poor. Caffeine, free sugar and energy from beverages had poor‐to‐moderate reliability. Correlation coefficients were large (r > 0.50, p < 0.001) comparing diet records and WBIQ across all categories of beverage except low‐/zero‐calorie soft drinks (r = 0.34, p < 0.01). Bland–Altman plots showed a similar trend across all variables, with better agreements at lower intake and the absolute difference increasing proportionally at higher intakes. Over 90% of respondents agreed/strongly agreed that the tool was easy to navigate and understand.

Conclusions

The WBIQ is the first stage in the development of a tool for UK‐specific beverage intake measurement in working‐age adults. Further refinement and testing are required to improve reliability.
The effect of fat content on sensory perception and consumer acceptability of 70% cacao dark chocolate made from reconstituted cocoa liquor
Authors: Brown Allison L. , Warren Ezekiel R. , Ingraham Bradley W. , Ziegler Gregory R. , Hopfer Helene
Published: July 2023

Dark chocolate is a complex food defined by its unique flavor, taste, mouthfeel, and melting properties. The craft chocolate market is a new segment of the US confectionery industry that highlights cocoa bean origin by making two‐ingredient dark chocolate composed of cocoa liquor and sugar. To study the impact of natural variance in fat levels inherent to unblended cocoa liquor in two‐ingredient chocolate, we made 70% cacao dark chocolate from cocoa liquor reconstituted from cocoa powder and cocoa butter at total fat contents of 30%, 35%, and 40% (w/w), and collected sensory and acceptability data from 108 regular chocolate consumers. Increasing fat content did not significantly affect liking (p > .05). However, with increasing fat levels, perceived intensities of bitter taste, cocoa flavor, and drying mouthfeel significantly decreased, and sweet taste perception significantly increased (p < .05). Consumer chocolate preference (milk vs. dark) significantly affected perceived intensity of drying mouthfeel.

Practical Applications

Our research suggests that liking of astringent stimuli may result in decreased perception of astringency in highly astringent foods. Further research is recommended to understand this mechanism as well as the physical and chemical underpinnings by which fat content impacts sensory perception of dark chocolate.
Introduction to the special issue of Meteoritics & Planetary Science on the Winchcombe meteorite
Authors: Joy K. H. , King A. J. , Daly L.
Published: July 2023

This issue of Meteoritics & Planetary Science celebrates the science of the Winchcombe meteorite, which fell to Earth on the 28th February 2021 close to the town of Winchcombe, Gloucestershire in the UK.