bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malnutrition screening tool use in a New Zealand hospital: Reliability and rates of malnutrition screening on admission
Authors: Diep‐Pham Huyen‐Tran , Donald Natasha , Wall Catherine L.
Published: August 2023

Aims

This research aimed to assess the rate and reliability of routine nurse‐completed malnutrition screening and report the prevalence of malnutrition risk on admission to Christchurch Hospital.

Methods

Student dietitians administered the Malnutrition Screening Tool to patients in three speciality wards within 48 h of admission. Student dietitians' Malnutrition Screening Tool scores were compared against documented nurse‐completed Malnutrition Screening Tool scores. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact test, and Cohen's kappa tests (interrater reliability ⱪ). A p‐value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Student dietitians, using the Malnutrition Screening Tool, screened 360 (96%) of 377 eligible patients while nurses screened 332 (88%) patients. Student dietitians and nurses screened 119 patients (33%) and 63 patients (18%) respectively at risk of malnutrition. There was fair agreement (ⱪ = 0.311) in Malnutrition Screening Tool total scores between nurses and student dietitians. There was a significant difference in the proportion of patients screened at risk of malnutrition between nurses and student dietitians (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Malnutrition risk remains high in acute care settings. Nurses were less likely to screen patients as at risk of malnutrition than student dietitians. Regular support and training in using Malnutrition Screening Tool may help improve the rate and reliability of routine malnutrition screening.
Costovertebral and costotransverse joint involvement in spondyloarthritis
Authors: Ata Emine Büşra , Durhan Gamze , Bilgin Emre , Arıyürek Orhan Macit , Kalyoncu Umut
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Costovertebral (CV), costotransverse (CTr), sternoclavicular (SC), and manubriosternal (MS) joints are impacted in spondyloarthritis (SpA) patients; however, clinical aspects of these involvements require additional evaluation.

Methods

A total of 281 SpA patients who had undergone chest computed tomography (CT) for any reason between 2010 and 2020 were included in the study. SpA patients were divided into three groups, ankylosing spondylitis (AS), non‐radiographic axial SpA, and psoriatic arthritis. Thirty age‐ and sex‐matched rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and 30 non‐rheumatic disease individuals were selected for comparison. An experienced radiologist reviewed 24 CV, 20 CTr, 2 SC, and 1 MS joints from a thorax CT for each patient. All joints were classified as: normal (0); suspicious (1), mild (2), moderate (3), or severe (4).

Results

Total CV and CTr joint scores differed between diseases (p < .001). Male AS patients had higher CV and CTr scores than female AS patients (male CV score: 52 [range 0–96] and CTr score: 22 [range 0–80]; female CV score: 20 [range 0–96] and CTr score: 12 [range 0–79]). Strong negative correlations were detected in AS patients between chest expansion and CV (r = −0.703 p = .007) and CTr (r = −0.763 p = .002) joint involvement; positive correlations between CV and CTr joints, and modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spinal Score (p < .05); and no significant association for MS and SC joints.

Conclusions

CV and CTr joint involvement on thorax CT was more severe in AS and negatively affected chest expansion. The use of thorax CT scans performed for other indications in the examination of these joints may be advantageous for the early beginning of rehabilitation programs targeted at maintaining chest mobility.
Techno‐nationalism or building a global science and technology commons? (but what about China?)
Authors: Lynn Leonard , Salzman Hal
Published: August 2023

As a cold war with China heats up, the U.S. and other members of the G7 need new approaches to their science and technology innovation (STI) policies. Dominance on the innovation frontier is no longer possible through traditional techno‐nationalist policies that view nations as ‘competing’ through exclusive STI development. Instead, we must recognise that talent and intellectual property are globally distributed, and thus build global collaborations that draw on the world's greatest talent while providing benefits equitably in a global STI commons. We need to recognise this new reality, not only for the benefits this would confer on humankind, but also to contend with China's growing STI capabilities and, eventually perhaps, integrating China into a system of global collaboration. Additionally, and importantly, national policies must recognise the geographically untethered operations of multinational enterprises that are the developers and/or repositories of STI but have weak ties to any one nation, thus blunting policies that try to contain STI within a country's borders. In this paper, we suggest approaches to advance these goals for global STI based on theories and cases of collective action.
Clinical validation of the nursing diagnosis risk for disturbed maternal–fetal dyad in high‐risk pregnancy: A case–control study
Authors: Mendes Ryanne C. M. G. , Morais Sheila C. R. V. , Pontes Cleide M. , Frazão Cecília M. F. Q. , França Michelline S. , Lopes Marcos V. O. , Silva Gabrielle P. , Mangueira Suzana O. , Linhares Francisca M. P.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To obtain evidence of the clinical validity of the nursing diagnosis (ND) risk for disturbed maternal–fetal dyad in high‐risk pregnancy.

Method

Causal validation of the ND through a case–control study performed in a university hospital with 155 high‐risk pregnant women: 31 cases and 124 controls. A causal association was found between the ND etiological factors and the occurrence of disruption of the symbiotic maternal–fetal dyad; an association was verified when the etiological factor presented a p‐value <0.05 and odds ratio >1.

Findings

The risk factor absent–inadequate prenatal care; populations at risk, such as young‐advanced maternal age and economically disadvantaged pregnant women; and association conditions, such as maternal conditions and compromised fetal oxygen transport, increased the outcome likelihood. The associated condition maternal illnesses appeared as a protective factor.

Conclusions

Evidence of clinical validity of the ND risk for disturbed maternal–fetal dyad was obtained, and an association between etiological factors and disruption of the symbiotic maternal–fetal dyad was found.

Implications for nursing practice

The results contribute to advance scientific knowledge in nursing teaching, research, and practice and support the nursing process in high‐risk pregnancies.
Inhibition of abnormal C/EBPβ/α‐Syn signaling pathway through activation of Nrf2 ameliorates Parkinson's disease‐like pathology
Authors: Lin Zefang , Huang Lixuan , Cao Qianqian , Luo Hanyue , Yao Wei , Zhang Ji‐chun
Published: August 2023

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the formation of Lewy bodies (LBs) in the brain. These LBs are primarily composed of α‐Synuclein (α‐Syn), which has aggregated. A recent report proposes that CCAAT/enhancer‐binding proteins β (C/EBPβ) may act as an age‐dependent transcription factor for α‐Syn, thereby initiating PD pathologies by regulating its transcription. Potential therapeutic approaches to address PD could involve targeting the regulation of α‐Syn by C/EBPβ. This study has revealed that Nrf2, also known as nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (NFE2L2), suppresses the transcription of C/EBPβ in SH‐SY5Y cells when treated with MPP+. To activate Nrf2, sulforaphane, an Nrf2 activator, was administered. Additionally, C/EBPβ was silenced using C/EBPβ‐DNA/RNA heteroduplex oligonucleotide (HDO). Both approaches successfully reduced abnormal α‐Syn expression in primary neurons treated with MPP+. Furthermore, sustained activation of Nrf2 via its activator or inhibition of C/EBPβ using C/EBPβ‐HDO resulted in a reduction of aberrant α‐Syn expression, thus leading to an improvement in the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) in mouse models induced by 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,5,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) and those treated with preformed fibrils (PFFs). The data presented in this study illustrate that the activation of Nrf2 may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for PD by inhibiting the abnormal C/EBPβ/α‐Syn signaling pathway.
Can there be a Godly ethnography? Islamic anthropology, epistemic decolonization, and the ethnographic stance
Authors: Moll Yasmin
Published: August 2023

Can there be a Godly ethnography? This article explores how the epistemic entailments of this question trouble our taken‐for‐granted notions about what decolonizing anthropology demands. Disciplinary decolonization aims at more‐just futures through interrogating Eurocentric ways of knowing and approaching marginalized histories and perspectives as good to think with, not merely about. I argue that far from being a radical challenge, such decolonizing calls are internal to a secular liberal anthropology. The ethical norms they embed take paradigmatic form in the ethnographic stance and its imperative to take difference seriously as a way toward self‐transformation. This stance needs to itself be provincialized as belonging to secular traditions of critical inquiry and their attendant emancipatory politics. By contrast, a Godly ethnography, as put forth in the 1980s call for an “Islamic anthropology” by some Muslim scholars working within a broader Islamization of knowledge movement, is a more radical challenge to the discipline. Here, the study of human differences is oriented neither towards self‐determination nor solidarity but towards divine devotion. Indeed, Islamic anthropology's transcendent telos is difficult to reconcile with the secular ethic of “taking seriously” motivating call for epistemic decolonization. This difficulty necessitates more‐carefully disentangling the question of disciplinary decolonization from political liberation, asking what happens the day after epistemic decolonization.
Perceived intravaginal ejaculation latency time: The diagnosis of premature ejaculation among Vietnamese men
Authors: Nguyen Hoai Bac , Nguyen Cao Thang , Pham Minh Quan , Hoang Long , Sansone Andrea , Jannini Emmanuele A.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a prevalent sexual dysfunction in men that greatly affects their quality of life. In PE, the duration of sexual performance is considered an important aspect. However, a self‐estimated value of intravaginal ejaculation latency time (perceived IELT, PIELT) as a criterion for diagnosis has not been specified.

Aim

This study aimed to determine the validity and a threshold value for PIELT in PE diagnosis.

Method

In our cross‐sectional study, we recruited 550 men from March 2019 to January 2020 and interviewed them regarding their general demographic characteristics, sexual habits, PIELT and completed a premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) questionnaire. Eventually, a combination of a clinical diagnosis and PEDT score was used, in which those with PEDT ≥ 11 and diagnosed with possible PE were assigned to the final PE(+) group; those with PEDT score ≤ 8 and diagnosed with no PE were included in the final PE(−) group.

Results

Men PE(−) had more frequent sexual intercourse (9.74 ± 5.38 vs. 6.69 ± 5.38 episodes per month, p < 0.001) and had higher marriage rate (72.7% vs. 60.4%, p = 0.002) than PE(+) patients. No significant difference was noted regarding age, smoking habit, age of first sexual experience, and number of sexual partners between the two groups. The mean PIELT of control subjects and PE(+) patients were 11.69 ± 6.83 min and 2.01 ± 1.21 min, respectively. On receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the cut‐off value of PIELT of 3.75 min can be used to distinguish PE men (area under the curve = 0.982, sensitivity/specificity = 0.961/0.909), which means that men with a PIELT ≤ 3.5 min is suggestive of PE.

Conclusion

The impact of PE is dramatic both from a social and a personal perspective. PE(+) patients married significantly less and have significantly lower sexual activity compared to a PE(‐) population. Furthermore, a PIELT of ≤ 3.5 min predicts PE demonstrating the need to revise its taxonomy and definition.
Lipid metabolism and oxidative stress in patients with Alzheimer's disease and amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Nie Yuting , Chu Changbiao , Qin Qi , Shen Huixin , Wen Lulu , Tang Yi , Qu Miao
Published: August 2023

Lipid metabolism and oxidative stress are key mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The link between plasma lipid metabolites and oxidative stress in AD patients is poorly understood. This study was to identify markers that distinguish AD and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) from NC, and to reveal potential links between lipid metabolites and oxidative stress. We performed non‐targeted lipid metabolism analysis of plasma from patients with AD, aMCI, and NC using LC–MS/MS. The plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were assessed. We found significant differences in lipid metabolism between patients with AD and aMCI compared to those in NC. AD severity is associated with lipid metabolites, especially TG (18:0_16:0_18:0) + NH4, TG (18:0_16:0_16:0) + NH4, LPC(16:1e)‐CH3, and PE (20:0_20:4)‐H. SPH (d16:0) + H, SPH (d18:1) + H, and SPH (d18:0) + H were high‐performance markers to distinguish AD and aMCI from NC. The AUC of three SPHs combined to predict AD was 0.990, with specificity and sensitivity as 0.949 and 1, respectively; the AUC of three SPHs combined to predict aMCI was 0.934, with specificity and sensitivity as 0.900, 0.981, respectively. Plasma MDA concentrations were higher in the AD group than in the NC group (p = 0.003), whereas plasma SOD levels were lower in the AD (p < 0.001) and aMCI (p = 0.045) groups than in NC, and GSH‐Px activity were higher in the AD group than in the aMCI group (p = 0.007). In addition, lipid metabolites and oxidative stress are widely associated. In conclusion, this study distinguished serum lipid metabolism in AD, aMCI, and NC subjects, highlighting that the three SPHs can distinguish AD and aMCI from NC. Additionally, AD patients showed elevated oxidative stress, and there are complex interactions between lipid metabolites and oxidative stress.
Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 downregulation contributes to neuroprotection mediated by CXC chemokine receptor 4 interactions after intracerebral hemorrhage in rats
Authors: Wu Yu , Zhang Zhuwei , Sun Xiaoou , Wang Jing , Shen Haitao , Sun Xue , Wang Zhong
Published: August 2023

Aim

Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1) and CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) have a substantial role in neuronal formation, differentiation, remodeling, and maturation and participate in multiple physiological and pathological events. In this study, we investigated the role of SDF‐1/CXCR4 in neural functional injury and neuroprotection after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

Western blot, immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation were used to detect SDF‐1/CXCR4 expression and combination respectively after ICH. TUNEL staining, Lactate dehydrogenase assay, Reactive oxygen species assay, and Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to study neuronal damage; Brain water content to assay brain edema, Neurological scores to assess short‐term neurological deficits. Pharmacological inhibition and genetic intervention of SDF‐1/CXCR4 signaling were also used in this study.

Results

ICH induced upregulation of SDF‐1/CXCR4 and increased their complex formation, whereas AMD3100 significantly reduced it. The levels of TNF‐α and IL‐1β were significantly reduced after AMD3100 treatment. Additionally, AMD3100 treatment can alleviate neurobehavioral dysfunction of ICH rats. Conversely, simultaneous SDF‐1/CXCR4 overexpression induced the opposite effect. Moreover, immunoprecipitation confirmed that SDF‐1/CXCR4 combined to initiate neurodamage effects.

Conclusion

This study indicated that inhibition of SDF‐1/CXCR4 complex formation can rescue the inflammatory response and alleviate neurobehavioral dysfunction after ICH. SDF‐1/CXCR4 may have applications as a therapeutic target after ICH.
Primary mediastinal choriocarcinoma in an 18‐year‐old male with pulmonary and brain metastasis: A case report
Authors: Wang Hanlin , Chen Xiu , Zhang Renquan
Published: August 2023

Primary mediastinal choriocarcinoma, also known as non‐pregnant choriocarcinoma, is a rare malignancy unrelated to pregnancy, with a higher incidence in males. And primary mediastinal choriocarcinoma is mostly associated with organ and lymph node metastasis, with rapid progression and poor prognosis. Here, we report an extremely rare case of the primary anterior mediastinal choriocarcinoma that occurred in an 18‐year‐old man with multiple metastases of the lung and brain.
Clinical outcomes of a prospective randomized comparison of bioreactance monitoring versus pulse‐contour analysis in a stroke‐volume based goal‐directed fluid resuscitation protocol in brain‐dead organ donors
Authors: Marklin Gary F. , Stephens Melissa , Gansner Elyssa , Ewald Gregory , Klinkenberg William Dean , Ahrens Thomas
Published: August 2023

Eighty percent of brain‐dead (BD) organ donors develop hypotension and are frequently hypovolemic. Fluid resuscitation in a BD donor is controversial. We have previously published our 4‐h goal‐directed stroke volume (SV)‐based fluid resuscitation protocol which significantly decreased time on vasopressors and increased transplanting four or more organs. The SV was measured by pulse‐contour analysis (PCA) or an esophageal doppler monitor, both of which are invasive. Thoracic bioreactance (BR) is a non‐invasive portable technology that measures SV but has not been studied in BD donors. We performed a randomized prospective comparative study of BR versus PCA technology in our fluid resuscitation protocol in BD donors. Eighty‐four donors (53.1%) were randomized to BR and 74 donors to PCA (46.8%). The two groups were well matched based on 24 demographic, social, and initial laboratory factors, without any significant differences between them. There was no difference in the intravenous fluid infused over the 4‐h study period [BR 2271 ± 823 vs. PCA 2230 ± 962 mL; p = .77]. There was no difference in the time to wean off vasopressors [BR 108.8 ± 61.8 vs. PCA 150.0 ± 68 min p = .07], nor in the number of donors off vasopressors at the end of the protocol [BR 16 (28.6%) vs. PCA 15 (29.4%); p = .92]. There was no difference in the total number of organs transplanted per donor [BR 3.25 ± 1.77 vs. PCA 3.22 ± 1.75; p = .90], nor in any individual organ transplanted. BR was equivalent to PCA in clinical outcomes and provides a simple, non‐invasive, portable technology to monitor fluid resuscitation in organ donors.
The natural wine phenomenon and the promise of sustainability: Institutionalization or radicalization?
Authors: Alonso González Pablo , Parga‐Dans Eva
Published: August 2023

Natural wine is produced with organic grapes without the use of additives. As a social phenomenon, it comprises rural winemakers and urban consumers interconnected by a vibrant global community of distributors, bloggers, experts, and associations. Despite its continuous growth since the early 2000s, the movement has sparked global public interest since the French recognition of the vin méthode nature certification in 2020. Here we delineate the evolution of the natural wine phenomenon from its origins to its current situation. It will be argued that rather than a social movement or an alternative food network, natural wine can be better understood as a food phenomenon exhibiting a sustainable alternative mode of production and consumption that unites a loose coalition of diverse actors. In exploring the constant tensions involved in the ongoing redefinition of natural wine by social actors, we will analyze their different understandings of locality, naturalness, and ethical food production.
Using ADAPT‐ITT framework to tailor evidence‐based interventions for addressing methamphetamine use among methadone patients in Vietnam
Authors: Giang Le Minh , Trang Nguyen Thu , Thuy Dinh Thanh , Nguyen Hoa H. , Diep Nguyen Bich , Van Hoang Thi Hai , Truc Thai Thanh , Reback Cathy J. , Li Michael , Van Dung Do , Shoptaw Steve
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Methamphetamine use threatens positive treatment outcomes in substance use and HIV, for people with opioid use disorders (POUD) in many countries. This paper describes the adaptation of four evidence‐based interventions (EBI) (motivational interviewing, contingency management, Matrix group model and SMS text messaging) for treating methamphetamine use among POUD receiving methadone maintenance therapy in Vietnam.

Methods

Following the ADAPT‐ITT (Assessment‐Decision‐Administration‐Production‐Topical experts‐Training‐Testing) framework, we conducted 16 focus group discussions with POUD (n = 25) and providers (n = 22) at four methadone clinics in two largest cities (Hanoi in the North, Ho Chi Minh City in the South) to assess patterns of methamphetamine use and to get feedback on proposed EBIs. The proposed EBIs were properly adapted and used to train providers in two of the four methadone clinics. The revised EBIs were tested over 12 weeks among 42 POUD on methadone who use methamphetamine. Post‐intervention feedback served to fine‐tune the revised EBIs.

Results

Insights about patterns of methamphetamine use suggested that EBIs should focus on different triggers to methamphetamine use among POUD receiving methadone treatment in the two cities. All EBIs should emphasise family‐related topics to build a strong motivation for treatment. Participants suggested when, where and how each EBI should be delivered. Most participants were satisfied with the adapted EBIs. Limited human resources at methadone clinics might hinder implementation of the adapted EBIs.

Discussion and Conclusions

We successfully completed the adaptation of EBIs for POUD who use methamphetamine on methadone in Vietnam. The pilot testing of the adapted EBIs demonstrated feasibility and acceptability.

Trial registration: NCT04706624. Registered 13 January 2021. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04706624.
Deep learning in negative small‐bowel capsule endoscopy improves small‐bowel lesion detection and diagnostic yield
Authors: Choi Kyung Seok , Park DoGyeom , Kim Jin Su , Cheung Dae Young , Lee Bo‐In , Cho Young‐Seok , Kim Jin Il , Lee Seungchul , Lee Han Hee
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Although several studies have shown the usefulness of artificial intelligence to identify abnormalities in small‐bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) images, few studies have proven its actual clinical usefulness. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine whether meaningful findings could be obtained when negative SBCE videos were reanalyzed with a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) model.

Methods

Clinical data of patients who received SBCE for suspected small‐bowel bleeding at two academic hospitals between February 2018 and July 2020 were retrospectively collected. All SBCE videos read as negative were reanalyzed with the CNN algorithm developed in our previous study. Meaningful findings such as angioectasias and ulcers were finally decided after reviewing CNN‐selected images by two gastroenterologists.

Results

Among 202 SBCE videos, 103 (51.0%) were read as negative by humans. Meaningful findings were detected in 63 (61.2%) of these 103 videos after reanalyzing them with the CNN model. There were 79 red spots or angioectasias in 40 videos and 66 erosions or ulcers in 35 videos. After reanalysis, the diagnosis was changed for 10 (10.3%) patients who had initially negative SBCE results. During a mean follow‐up of 16.5 months, rebleeding occurred in 19 (18.4%) patients. The rebleeding rate was 23.6% (13/55) for patients with meaningful findings and 16.1% (5/31) for patients without meaningful findings (P = 0.411).

Conclusion

Our CNN algorithm detected meaningful findings in negative SBCE videos that were missed by humans. The use of deep CNN for SBCE image reading is expected to compensate for human error.
Relating referential clarity and phonetic clarity in infant‐directed speech
Authors: Beech Caroline , Swingley Daniel
Published: August 2023

Psycholinguistic research on children's early language environments has revealed many potential challenges for language acquisition. One is that in many cases, referents of linguistic expressions are hard to identify without prior knowledge of the language. Likewise, the speech signal itself varies substantially in clarity, with some productions being very clear, and others being phonetically reduced, even to the point of uninterpretability. In this study, we sought to better characterize the language‐learning environment of American English‐learning toddlers by testing how well phonetic clarity and referential clarity align in infant‐directed speech. Using an existing Human Simulation Paradigm (HSP) corpus with referential transparency measurements and adding new measures of phonetic clarity, we found that the phonetic clarity of words’ first mentions significantly predicted referential clarity (how easy it was to guess the intended referent from visual information alone) at that moment. Thus, when parents’ speech was especially clear, the referential semantics were also clearer. This suggests that young children could use the phonetics of speech to identify globally valuable instances that support better referential hypotheses, by homing in on clearer instances and filtering out less‐clear ones. Such multimodal “gems” offer special opportunities for early word learning.

Research Highlights

In parent‐infant interaction, parents’ referential intentions are sometimes clear and sometimes unclear; likewise, parents’ pronunciation is sometimes clear and sometimes quite difficult to understand.

We find that clearer referential instances go along with clearer phonetic instances, more so than expected by chance.

Thus, there are globally valuable instances (“gems”) from which children could learn about words’ pronunciations and words’ meanings at the same time.

Homing in on clear phonetic instances and filtering out less‐clear ones would help children identify these multimodal “gems” during word learning.
Comparison of two composite resin materials for splinting of dental luxation injuries: A double blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Raza Misbah Ali , Khan Javeria Ali , Akhtar Hira , Farooqui Waqas Ahmed , Faraz Hira , Hasan Arshad
Published: August 2023

Background/Aim

Luxation is a common traumatic dental injury treated with a wire composite (WC) splint. However, bulk‐fill flowable composite and conventional packable composite have not been compared for retaining these splints. Therefore, the objectives of this randomized controlled trial were (1) to compare retention of WC splints, and (2) to compare adhesive point dimension, application and removal time, and effect on tooth mobility between the two WC splints.

Materials and Methods

In this parallel group, non‐inferiority double blind randomized controlled trial, a total of 90 patients, aged 16–50 years participated. They were randomly allocated into two groups, the packable composite group (PC) n = 45 and the bulk‐fill flowable composite group (BF‐FC) n = 45 by lottery method. Following measurements were taken at the splint application appointment. Horizontal tooth mobility measured via Periotest, splint application time, and frontal images of splinted teeth to measure the percentage composite adhesive point area. After 2 weeks, splints were visually inspected for retention, whereas mobility and removal times were also recorded. Statistically, comparisons were made using independent samples sample T‐test, Fisher's exact test, and Mann–Whitney U at p ≤ .05.

Results

A total of 88 patients with 156 luxated teeth completed the trial, as two patients were lost to follow‐up. Two patients in the PC group reported with completely de‐bonded splints while none de‐bonded in the BF‐FC group. Both groups were similar in terms of splint retention (p = .352), reduction of mobility (p = .426), and splint removal times (p = .372). The BF‐FC group performed significantly better in adhesive point dimension percentages (p < .001) and splint application time (p < .001).

Conclusion

Both groups were comparable in most parameters of the study. However, for BF‐FC group application time and adhesive point dimension were significantly less.
Analysis of null deletion polymorphism of glutathione S‐transferase theta (GSTT‐1), associated with anti‐GSTT‐1 antibodies development in transplantation
Authors: Muro‐Perez Manuel , González‐Martínez Gema , Martínez‐García Pedro , Legaz Isabel , Zafrilla Pilar , Muro Manuel
Published: August 2023

Glutathione S‐transferase theta 1 (GSTT1) is an enzyme involved in phase II biotransformation processes and a member of a multigene family of detoxifying and clearing reactive oxygen species. GSTT1 is polymorphic like other biotransforming enzymes, allowing variability in hepatic conjugation processes. Immunological recognition of the GSTT1 alloantigen, as evidenced by donor‐specific antibodies formation, has previously been observed in recipients lacking GSTT1 protein (called GSTT1−, GSTT*0, null phenotype or homozygous for the GSTT1 deletion) who receive liver or kidney transplants from GSTT1+ donors and is a risk factor for the development of de novo hepatitis following liver transplants from a GSTT1 expressing donor. Antibodies against GSTT1 are demonstrated in patients who are GSTT1 null and received a transplant from a GSTT1+ donor. Understanding the local population frequency of the GSTT1 deletion is of value in understanding the potential clinical risk of developing post‐transplant complications, which can be attributed to the nonexpression of GSTT1. A population of 173 healthy donors of the Murcia Region in Southeast Spain was evaluated for a null allele of GSTT1 (n = 173). DNA was extracted, and GSTT‐1 null allele detection was performed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The frequency of the null GSTT1 genotype (nonexpression or deletion of the homozygous polymorphism of the GSTT1 protein) was 17.9% (n = 31 null allele GSTT1/173 total individuals). Our data suggest that the frequency of null GSTT1 mutations in our population in Southeast Spain is 17.9%, lower than in other Caucasoid populations. This would convert our recipient population into more susceptible to nonlocal potential organ donors and less susceptible to local donors. All recipients bearing this GSTT1 deletion homozygous would be without the protein and triggering an alloantigen in the case of transplantation with a donor without deletion.
Self and public stigma towards mental illnesses and its predictors among university students in 11 Arabic‐speaking countries: A multi‐site study
Authors: Al Omari Omar , Valsaraj Blessy Prabha , Khatatbeh Moawiah , Al‐Jubouri Mohammed Baqer , Emam Mahmoud , Al Hashmi Iman , Al Qadire Mohammad , Aljezawi Maen , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , Hasona Aisha Awad , Tarhini Zeinab , Damra Jalal , Al Sabei Sulaiman , Mohamed Nora
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to explore self and public stigma towards mental illness and associated factors among university students from 11 Arabic‐speaking countries. This cross‐sectional study included 4241 university students recruited from Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Syria, Sudan, Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine and Egypt. The participants completed three self‐administrative online questionnaires—Demographic Proforma (age, gender, family income, etc.), Peer Mental Health Stigmatization Scale and Mental Health Knowledge Questionnaire. There was a significant difference in the average mean between the 11 countries (p < 0.01) based on stigma agreement (self) and stigma awareness (public). The mean stigma agreement towards mental illnesses among university students was 19.7 (SD = 6.0), with the lowest in Lebanon, 15.9 (SD = 5.1) and the highest in UAE, 24.1 (SD = 5.6). The factors associated with stigma agreement included poor knowledge, being male, high family income, age, weak cumulative grade point average (cGPA), mothers with primary education, an unemployed parent, students in scientific colleges and fathers who completed secondary or university degrees. Furthermore, the factors associated with stigma awareness included good knowledge, acceptable cGPA and having a father who has a low income and is illiterate. Stigma towards mental illness varies among university students across Arabic‐speaking countries. There is a need to sensitize youngsters to the need for a humanitarian approach in society to individuals affected by mental health concerns. Major governmental reforms must be initiated for the provision of mental health services for individuals with mental illnesses.
Family engagement in paediatric acute care settings: A realist review
Authors: Jerofke‐Owen Teresa A. , McAndrew Natalie S. , Totka Joan P. , Gralton Karen S. , Sawin Kathleen J. , Fial Alissa V. , Weiss Marianne E.
Published: August 2023

Aim

To create a programme theory of family engagement in paediatric acute care to explicate the relationships between contexts and mechanisms of family engagement that align with family, direct care providers and healthcare organization outcomes.

Design

Realist review and synthesis.

Data Sources

PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science searches for the 2.5‐year period (July 2019–December 2021) following our 2021 scoping review.

Review Methods

Following methods described by Pawson and Rycroft‐Malone, we defined the scope of the review, searched for and appraised the evidence, extracted and synthesized study findings and developed a supporting narrative of our results.

Results

Of 316 initial citations, 101 were included in our synthesis of the final programme theory. Contexts included family and direct care provider individualism, and the organizational care philosophy and environment. Mechanisms were family presence, family enactment of a role in the child's care, direct care providers facilitating a family role in the child's care, unit/organizational promotion of a family role, relationship building and mutually beneficial partnerships. Outcomes were largely family‐focussed, with a paucity of organizational outcomes studied. We identified four context–mechanism–outcome configurations.

Conclusion

This realist review uncovered underlying contexts and mechanisms between patients, direct care providers and organizations in the family engagement process and key components of a mutually beneficial partnership. Given that successful family engagement requires direct care provider and organizational support, future research should expand beyond family outcomes to include direct care providers, particularly nurses and healthcare organization outcomes.

Impact

The final programme theory of family engagement in paediatric acute care provides a roadmap for clinicians to develop complex interventions to engage families and evaluate their impact. The components of our final programme theory reflect family engagement concepts that have been evolving for decades.

Patient or Public Contribution

The team conducting this review included members from the practice setting (JT & KG). In the future, as we and others use this model in practice, we will seek input for refinement from clinicians, patients and caregivers.
If it is language that speaks, what do speakers do? Confronting Heidegger's language ontology
Authors: Duranti Alessandro
Published: August 2023

Many of Heidegger’s statements about language should sound familiar to linguistic anthropologists, starting with the pragmatic‐indexical functions of speaking (in Sein und Zeit) and continuing, in later years, with something resembling linguistic relativity. But a comparison of Heidegger’s ideas with those of some of his contemporaries who wrote about similar themes reveals that he had different goals, first among them “the destruction of western metaphysics,” which he pursued by means of a new philosophical metalanguage, full of unorthodox etymologies, ambiguous metaphors, and linguistic constructions that gave agency to non‐human entities (e.g., “the world worlds,” “language speaks”). While offering himself as the prophet of innovative thinking and speaking, Heidegger also endorsed a conservative language ideology whereby some languages and some writers were said to be better equipped than others to capture the truth about the human condition. His decentering of the human subject ultimately turned into an antihumanist and elitist stance whereby most speakers are inauthentic “sounding boxes.” Drawing from concepts and analytic tools familiar to linguistic anthropologists I offer ways to counter Heidegger’s apocalyptic language ontology, explain the reasons of his success, and reflect on our own language ontology.
The effect of passive clear aligners on masticatory muscle activity in adults with different levels of oral parafunction
Authors: Pittar Nicholas , Firth Fiona , Bennani Hamza , Farella Mauro
Published: August 2023

Background

There is limited knowledge of the possible side‐effects of clear aligners on jaw function.

Objectives

To determine the short‐term effect of passive clear aligners (PCAs) on masticatory muscle activity (MMA), occlusal discomfort (OD) and temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms in adults with different levels of self‐reported oral parafunction.

Materials and Methods

Participants were screened for oral parafunctional behaviours using the oral behavioural checklist. Respondents in ≥85th and ≤15th percentiles were invited to participate and allocated to a high (HPF: N = 15) or low (lower parafunction [LPF]: N = 16) parafunction group. Participants underwent a TMD clinical examination; somatisation and somatosensory amplification were assessed by questionnaires; OD and stress were assessed by visual analogue scales. While wearing PCAs, awake‐time MMA was assessed three times over 9 days using a wearable electromyography device, along with OD, stress and TMD symptoms.

Results

The wearing of PCAs was associated with a significant decrease in mean contraction episode amplitude in both groups (p = 0.003). OD levels increased and remained raised in all participants after insertion of the PCAs (p < 0.001), more so in the HPF group (p = 0.048). The HPF group had higher somatisation scores (p = 0.006) and reported more TMD symptoms at all time points (p ≤ 0.004). No significant changes in stress or TMD symptoms were found in either group during the study period.

Conclusions

PCAs were associated with a decrease in MMA in all participants. HPF individuals had greater somatisation and reported greater discomfort when wearing PCAs than LPF individuals.
Despite popular intuition, positive world beliefs poorly reflect several objective indicators of privilege, including wealth, health, sex, and neighborhood safety
Authors: Kerry Nicholas , White KC , O'Brien Mark L. , Perry Laura M. , Clifton Jeremy D. W.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

We tested whether generalized beliefs that the world is safe, abundant, pleasurable, and progressing (termed “primal world beliefs”) are associated with several objective measures of privilege.

Methods

Three studies (N = 16,547) tested multiple relationships between indicators of privilege—including socioeconomic status, health, sex, and neighborhood safety—and relevant world beliefs, as well as researchers and laypeople's expectations of these relationships. Samples were mostly from the USA and included general population samples (Study 2) as well as focused samples of academic researchers (Study 1) and people who had experienced serious illness or trauma (Study 3).

Results

Studies 1–2 found mostly negligible relationships between world beliefs and indicators of privilege, which were invariably lower than researcher predictions (e.g., instead of the expected r = 0.33, neighborhood affluence correlated with Abundant world belief at r = 0.01). Study 3 found that people who had experienced serious illness (cancer, cystic fibrosis) only showed modest differences in beliefs from controls.

Conclusions

While results do not preclude that some individuals' beliefs were meaningfully affected by life events, they imply that such changes are smaller or less uniform than widely believed and that knowing a person's demographic background may tell us relatively little about their beliefs (and vice versa).
Giant mitochondria in human liver disease
Authors: Shami Gerald J. , Samarska Iryna V. , Koek Ger H. , Li Amy , Palma Elena , Chokshi Shilpa , Wisse Eddie , Braet Filip
Published: August 2023

This thematic review aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge about the occurrence of giant mitochondria or megamitochondria in liver parenchymal cells. Their presence and accumulation are considered to be a major pathological hallmark of the health and fate of liver parenchymal cells that leads to overall tissue deterioration and eventually results in organ failure. The first description on giant mitochondria dates back to the 1960s, coinciding with the availability of the first generation of electron microscopes in clinical diagnostic laboratories. Detailed accounts on their ultrastructure have mostly been described in patients suffering from alcoholic liver disease, chronic hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. Interestingly, from this extensive literature survey, it became apparent that giant mitochondria or megamitochondria present themselves with or without highly organised crystal‐like intramitochondrial inclusions. The origin, formation and potential role of giant mitochondria remain to‐date largely unanswered. Likewise, the biochemical composition of the well‐organised crystal‐like inclusions and their possible impact on mitochondrial function is unclear. Herein, concepts about the possible mechanism of their formation and three‐dimensional architecture will be approached. We will furthermore discuss their importance in diagnostics, including future research outlooks and potential therapeutic interventions to cure liver disease where giant mitochondria are implemented.
Logic will get you from A to B, imagination will take you anywhere
Authors: Berto Francesco
Published: August 2023

There is some consensus on the claim that imagination as suppositional thinking can have epistemic value insofar as it's constrained by a principle of minimal alteration of how we know or believe reality to be – compatibly with the need to accommodate the supposition initiating the imaginative exercise. But in the philosophy of imagination there is no formally precise account of how exactly such minimal alteration is to work. I propose one. I focus on counterfactual imagination, arguing that this can be modeled as simulated belief revision governed by Laplacian imaging. So understood, it can be rationally justified by accuracy considerations: it minimizes expected belief inaccuracy, as measured by the Brier score.
SlTCP24 and SlTCP29 synergistically regulate compound leaf development through interacting with SlAS2 and activating transcription of SlCKX2 in tomato
Authors: Hu Guoyu , Zhang Danqiu , Luo Dan , Sun Wenhui , Zhou Rijin , Hong Zonglie , Munir Shoaib , Ye Zhibiao , Yang Changxian , Zhang Junhong , Wang Taotao
Published: August 2023

The complexity of compound leaves results primarily from the leaflet initiation and arrangement during leaf development. However, the molecular mechanism underlying compound leaf development remains a central research question.

SlTCP24 and SlTCP29, two plant‐specific transcription factors with the conserved TCP motif, are shown here to synergistically regulate compound leaf development in tomato. When both of them were knocked out simultaneously, the number of leaflets significantly increased, and the shape of the leaves became more complex. SlTCP24 and SlTCP29 could form both homodimers and heterodimers, and such dimerization was impeded by the leaf polarity regulator SlAS2, which interacted with SlTCP24 and SlTCP29.

SlTCP24 and SlTCP29 could bind to the TCP‐binding cis‐element of the SlCKX2 promoter and activate its transcription. Transgenic plants with SlTCP24 and SlTCP29 double‐gene knockout had a lowered transcript level of SlCKX2 and an elevated level of cytokinin.

This work led to the identification of two key regulators of tomato compound leaf development and their targeted genes involved in cytokinin metabolic pathway. A model of regulation of compound leaf development was proposed based on observations of this study.
A novel treatment for Riehl's melanosis targeting both dermal melanin and vessels
Authors: Kim Yul Hee , Park Young Joon , Baek Du Jin , Kwon Ji Eun , Kang Hee Young
Published: August 2023

Background/purpose

Riehl's melanosis is a difficult‐to‐treat condition characterized by persisting dermal hyperpigmentation. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a histology‐specific targeted therapy for Riehl's melanosis.

Methods

Skin biopsy samples of Riehl's melanosis were assessed to identify histology‐specific targets for treatment. Subsequently, the efficacy of a combination involving a fractional picosecond laser and a pulsed dye laser (PDL) targeting the dermal melanin and vessels, respectively, was evaluated. Clinical improvement was assessed using the dermal pigmentation area and severity index (DPASI). The treatment outcomes were compared to those of a control, in this case a single laser treatment solely targeting pigmentation.

Results

Histological and immunohistochemical analyses identified dermal melanin pigment and dilated vessels as treatment targets for Riehl's melanosis. The combined treatment of the fractional picosecond laser and PDL showed a significant reduction of the DPASI scores, which was significantly better than the control group. Patients who underwent the combined laser treatment indicated high levels of satisfaction with no adverse events except of transient erythema and oedema.

Conclusion

The combined treatment of a fractional picosecond laser and a PDL was more effective for Riehl's melanosis compared to single laser treatment. The treatment targets both dermal pigmentation and dilated vessels, offering promising results for those working to manage Riehl's melanosis.
Gut microbiota trajectory in β‐thalassemia major children who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Luo Hongfeng , Liu Taohua , Qu Yuhua , Kuang Caiyun , Xiao Minhua , Sun Jing , Chen Huimin , Wu Jinhui , Liu Xihong , Jiang Hua
Published: August 2023

Background

The gut microbiota of patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) changes, leading to complications such as acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). This study aimed to evaluate the human microbiota composition before and after HSCT in β‐thalassemia major (β‐TM) children.

Method

Twenty‐two β‐TM children who received allo‐HSCT between December 2018 and March 2020 were enrolled. They were followed up for more than 100 days after HSCT, and their gut microbiota information and disease data were recorded at five‐time points.

Results

The dominant bacteria were Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes at the phylum level and Lachnospiraceae at the family level before and after HSCT. In the differential analysis, Ruminococcaceae constantly decreased after HSCT. Besides, Rothia mucilaginosa was the most abundant 2 months after HSCT compared to before it. Additionally, GVHD patients presented decreased levels of Bacteroidetes compared to those without GVHD. Moreover, Blautia levels significantly decreased in critically ill GVHD patients.

Conclusion

The gut microbiota of the 22 β‐TM children showed a clear trend of destruction and reconstruction within 100 days after HSCT. The extra‐oral infections and inflammations of Rothia mucilaginosa, a Gram‐positive bacterium of the normal oropharyngeal tract microbiota, might play an important role in the recovery process of HSCT. Finally, decreased Bacteroidetes levels were associated with GVHD onset.

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