bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cannabis exposure during pregnancy and perinatal outcomes: A cohort study
Authors: Brik Maia , Sandonis Miguel , Hernández‐Fleury Alina , Gil Judit , Mota Miriam , Barranco Francisco José , Garcia Itziar , Maiz Nerea , Carreras Elena
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Cannabis potency and its use during pregnancy have increased in the last decade. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of antenatal cannabis use on fetal growth, preterm birth and other perinatal outcomes.

Material and methods

A propensity score‐matched analysis was performed in women with singleton pregnancies attending a tertiary care site in Barcelona. Women in the cannabis group were selected based on the results of a detection test. Primary outcomes were small for gestational age at birth (SGA), low birthweight and preterm birth. Secondary outcomes were other biometric parameters (neonatal length and head circumference), respiratory distress, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit and breastfeeding at discharge. A second propensity score‐matched analysis excluding other confounders (use of other recreational drugs and discontinuation of cannabis use during pregnancy) was performed.

Results

Antenatal cannabis was associated with a higher odds ratio of SGA (OR 3.60, 95% CI: 1.68–7.69), low birthweight (OR 3.94, 95% CI: 2.17–7.13), preterm birth at 37 weeks (OR 2.07, 95% CI: 1.12–3.84) and 32 weeks of gestation (OR 4.13, 95% CI: 1.06–16.11), admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (OR 1.95, 95% CI: 1.03–3.71), respiratory distress (OR 2.77, 95% CI: 1.26–6.34), and lower breastfeeding rates at discharge (OR 0.10, 95% CI: 0.05–0.18). When excluding other confounders, no significant association between antenatal cannabis use and SGA was found.

Conclusions

Antenatal cannabis use increases the risk of SGA, low birthweight, preterm birth and other adverse perinatal outcomes. However, when isolating the impact of cannabis use by excluding women who use other recreational drugs and those who discontinue cannabis during pregnancy, no significant association between antenatal cannabis use and SGA birth was found.
The role of momentary emotions in promoting error learning orientation among lower secondary school students: An intervention study embedded in a short visual programming course
Authors: Schmid Rahel , Smit Robbert , Robin Nicolas , Strahl Alexander
Published: March 2024

Background

Students make many errors in visual programming. In order to learn from these, it is important that students regulate their emotions and view errors as learning opportunities.

Aims

This study aimed to explore to what extent momentary emotions, specifically enjoyment, anxiety and boredom, as well as the error learning orientation of students, interacted during a 1‐day course on visual programming in an out‐of‐school learning environment.

Samples

The sample consisted of 269 lower secondary school students (grades 7–9).

Methods

The data were collected in an intervention study, with questionnaires applied directly before and after the course, and with four measurements of state emotions during the course.

Results

The results showed that error learning orientation had an expected effect on the students' emotions at the beginning of the course. The emotions changed positively over the course of the workshop, while the error learning orientation remained stable. No differences in error learning orientation were found between the control and intervention groups. An expected, reciprocal effect of students' emotions on their error learning orientation at the end of the course day could not be found.

Conclusion

Changes in error learning orientation are difficult to achieve during 1‐day courses. Nevertheless, through targeted, pedagogical approaches, which aim to minimize the influence of unfavourable emotions that occur in problem‐oriented learning situations, teachers could help students develop a positive error learning orientation in the long term, whereby errors are viewed as an opportunity for learning.
A survey of the allocation of scarce resources in Türkiye during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Which criteria did healthcare professionals prioritize?
Authors: Aydin Er Rahime , Çevik Nasirlier Gülten
Published: March 2024

COVID‐19 caused an imbalance between medical resources and the number of patients in Türkiye like in many countries. There was not pandemic‐triage system, and this situation led to decision making based on experience, intuition, and judgment of allocation of scarce resources. The research explains the guiding criteria that healthcare professionals used to prioritize the distribution of scarce medical resources during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The criteria preferred by 928 healthcare professionals were evaluated when preventive measures for COVID‐19 were reduced and so the number of cases increased rapidly. The results indicate that Turkish healthcare professionals largely support the utilitarian approach, which focuses on medical benefit in pandemic. The main problem was that some criteria not approved in COVID‐19 triage guidelines were considered important by healthcare professionals. These criteria, which cause discrimination by preventing the provision of fair and equal medical care to patients, are a prominent issue in the study.
The effect of bolus advisors on glycaemic parameters in adults with diabetes on intensive insulin therapy: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: den Brok Elisabeth J. , Svensson Cecilie H. , Panagiotou Maria , van Greevenbroek Marleen M. J. , Mertens Peter R. , Vazeou Andriani , Mitrakou Asimina , Makrilakis Konstantinos , Franssen Gregor H. L. M. , van Kuijk Sander , Proennecke Stephan , Mougiakakou Stavroula , Pedersen‐Bjergaard Ulrik , de Galan Bastiaan E. ,   MELISSA consortium
Published: March 2024

Aim

To conduct a systematic review with meta‐analysis to provide a comprehensive synthesis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies investigating the effects of currently available bolus advisors on glycaemic parameters in adults with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

An electronic search of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov was conducted in December 2022. The risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. (Standardized) mean difference (MD) was selected to determine the difference in continuous outcomes between the groups. A random‐effects model meta‐analysis and meta‐regression were performed. This systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022374588).

Results

A total of 18 RCTs involving 1645 adults (50% females) with a median glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) concentration of 8.45% (7.95%–9.30%) were included. The majority of participants had type 1 diabetes (N = 1510, 92%) and were on multiple daily injections (N = 1173, 71%). Twelve of the 18 trials had low risk of bias. The meta‐analysis of 10 studies with available data on HbA1c showed that the use of a bolus advisor modestly reduced HbA1c compared to standard treatment (MD −011%, 95% confidence interval −0.22 to −0.01; I2 = 0%). This effect was accompanied by small improvements in low blood glucose index and treatment satisfaction, but not with reductions in hypoglycaemic events or changes in other secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

Use of a bolus advisor is associated with slightly better glucose control and treatment satisfaction in people with diabetes on intensive insulin treatment. Future studies should investigate whether personalizing bolus advisors using artificial intelligence technology can enhance these effects.
Reduction in short interval intracortical inhibition from the early stage reflects the pathophysiology in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A meta‐analysis study
Authors: Higashihara Mana , Pavey Nathan , Menon Parvathi , van den Bos Mehdi , Shibuya Kazumoto , Kuwabara Satoshi , Kiernan Matthew C. , Koinuma Masayoshi , Vucic Steve
Published: March 2024

Background and purpose

Cortical hyperexcitability has been identified as a diagnostic and pathogenic biomarker of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Cortical excitability is assessed by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non‐invasive neurophysiological technique. The TMS biomarkers exhibiting highest sensitivity for cortical hyperexcitability in ALS remain to be elucidated. A meta‐analysis was performed to determine the TMS biomarkers exhibiting the highest sensitivity for cortical hyperexcitability in ALS.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted of all relevant studies published in the English language by searching PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus electronic databases from 1 January 2006 to 28 February 2023. Inclusion criteria included studies reporting the utility of threshold tracking TMS (serial ascending method) in ALS and controls.

Results

In total, more than 2500 participants, incorporating 1530 ALS patients and 1102 controls (healthy, 907; neuromuscular, 195) were assessed with threshold tracking TMS across 25 studies. Significant reduction of mean short interval intracortical inhibition (interstimulus interval 1–7 ms) exhibited the highest standardized mean difference with moderate heterogeneity (−0.994, 95% confidence interval −1.12 to −0.873, p < 0.001; Q = 38.61, p < 0.05; I2 = 40%). The reduction of cortical silent period duration along with an increase in motor evoked potential amplitude and intracortical facilitation also exhibited significant, albeit smaller, standardized mean differences.

Conclusion

This large meta‐analysis study disclosed that mean short interval intracortical inhibition reduction exhibited the highest sensitivity for cortical hyperexcitability in ALS. Combined findings from this meta‐analysis suggest that research strategies aimed at understanding the cause of inhibitory interneuronal circuit dysfunction could enhance understanding of ALS pathogenesis.
An efficient tool to find multispecies MSY for interacting fish stocks
Authors: Del Santo O’Neill T. J. , Rossberg A. G. , Thorpe R. B.
Published: March 2024

Natural ecological communities exhibit complex mixtures of interspecific biological interactions, which makes finding optimal yet sustainable exploitation rates challenging. Most fisheries management advice is at present based on applying the Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) target to each species in a community by modelling it as if it was a monoculture. Such application of single‐species MSY policies to strongly interacting populations can result in tragic overexploitation. However, the idea of ‘maximising the yield from each species separately’ can be extended to take into account species interactions. This leads to a form of Nash Equilibrium, where the yields of each species are simultaneously maximised. Here we present ‘nash’, an R package that streamlines the computation of Nash equilibrium reference points for fisheries and other systems represented by a user‐defined multispecies or ecosystem model. We present two real‐world fisheries management applications alongside performance benchmarks. Satisfactory search results are shown across models with an approximate factor 7 increase in performance when compared to the expensive round‐robbing sequential optimisation algorithms used by other authors in the literature. We believe that the nash package can play an instrumental role in fully implementing ecosystem‐based management policies worldwide.
Anxiety and depression among adults with haemophilia A: Patient and physician reported symptoms from the real‐world European CHESS II study
Authors: Ferri Grazzi Enrico , Blenkiron Thomas , Hawes Charles , Camp Charlotte , O'Hara Jamie , Burke Tom , O'Brien Gráinne
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The physical pain and disability affecting many people with haemophilia A (PwHA) are known detractors from psychological wellbeing. While psychosocial support is considered a core tenet of the haemophilia comprehensive care structure, the extent to which mental health challenges are detected and monitored by the individuals treating haematologist remains relatively unexplored.

Aim

To describe prevalence of anxiety and depression in a real‐world cohort of adult PwHA and evaluate the congruence in reporting of anxiety or depression (A/D) between PwHA and their treating physicians.

Methods

Data for PwHA without inhibitors was drawn from the European ‘Cost of Haemophilia: A Socioeconomic Survey II’ (CHESS II) study. Haematologist‐indicated comorbidities of anxiety and depression were unified into a single A/D indicator. The EQ‐5D‐5L health status measure was used to characterise self‐reported A/D, with individuals stratified into two non‐mutually exclusive subgroups based on level of A/D reported (Subgroup A: ‘some’ or above; Subgroup B: ‘moderate’ or above).

Result

Of 381 PwHA with evaluable EQ‐5D‐5L responses, 54% (n = 206) self‐reported at least some A/D (Subgroup A) and 17% (n = 66) reported at least moderate A/D (Subgroup B). Patient‐physician congruence in A/D reporting was 53% and 76% for Subgroups A and B, respectively. Descriptive analysis suggested that individuals with physician‐ and/or self‐reported A/D experienced worse clinical outcomes (bleeding events, joint disease, chronic pain).

Conclusion

While adverse clinical outcomes appear to correlate with A/D, self‐reports of moderate–severe symptoms occasionally lacked formal recognition from treating physicians. Cross‐disciplinary surveillance of mental health issues could improve both psychological and clinical outcomes among PwHA.
HOUSEHOLD DEBT AND THE EFFECTS OF FISCAL POLICY
Authors: Alpanda Sami , Song Melissa Hyunji , Zubairy Sarah
Published: March 2024

We examine how the effects of government spending shocks depend on the balance sheet position of households. Employing U.S. household survey data, we find a large, positive consumption response for households with mortgage debt, smaller response for renters, and an insignificant response for outright homeowners, in response to a positive government spending shock. We consider a model with three types of households and show that it can successfully account for these findings. Liquidity constraints and wealth effects play a crucial role in shock propagation. Our findings suggest the importance of household mortgage debt position in the transmission mechanism of fiscal policy.
Prompt effects on assessment of interactional competence in a group oral test
Authors: Lv Zhouyang
Published: March 2024

This study serves as an attempt to validate an in‐house oral proficiency test (hereafter referred to as OPT) with a particular focus on prompt effects on assessment of interactional competence, an issue that has attracted burgeoning interest but not been adequately investigated yet. Prompts employed in the parallel versions of the group discussion task, which were supposed to be comparable, were found to differ in two dimensions, that is, topical domain and syntactic structure. The transcribed interactions from 136 sophomore test takers (34 groups) sitting in the first administration of the OPT were coded through a rigorous procedure and examined using conversation analysis. Five patterns of interaction were identified with distinct features based on two dimensions, mutuality and equality. Marked differences in distribution of patterns of interaction were detected in discourse elicited by different prompts, which should be mainly attributed to the syntactic structure of the prompts. The open‐question prompts were found more likely to elicit “conversation‐like” interaction with higher mutuality, characterized by the collaborative and unbalanced‐collaborative patterns, while the closed‐question prompts tended to elicit more “solo versus solo” interaction with lower mutuality, featured by the parallel and unbalanced‐parallel patterns. The influence of topic domain, however, was minimal. The results thereby constitute rebuttals that weaken meaningfulness and impartiality of the claim of interpretations about the construct within Bachman and Palmer's assessment use argument framework and suggest close attention from the test developers. The implications for prompt design, and development and validation of the group oral test are further provided.
Wide spectrum of novel and rare hemoglobin variants in the multi‐ethnic Indian population: A review
Authors: Thaker Pallavi , Mahajan Namrata , Mukherjee Malay B. , Colah Roshan B.
Published: March 2024

The hemoglobin (Hb) variants are qualitative abnormalities due to production of structurally abnormal globin proteins. They are categorized based on the type of mutation present in the α1, α2, β, Gγ, Aγ and δ globin genes. So far, more than 1550 Hb variants are reported in the database. They could lead to Hb polymerization, Hb instability, altered oxygen affinity and decreased oxygen‐carrying capacity of Hb or have no clinical manifestations. In India, ethnic diversity, consanguinity, regional variations and migration result in the presence of different Hb variants. We have compiled all the variants of α, β and δ globin chains in heterozygous, homozygous and in compound heterozygous forms reported from India in the last 52 years. Of the 63 rare and novel hemoglobin variants reported from India, 22 were α‐globin chain variants, 37 were β‐globin chain variants and 4 were δ‐globin chain variants. Twelve novel Hb variants (Hb J Rajappan, Hb Koya Dora, Hb Rampa, Hb Godavari, Hb Chandigarh, Hb D Agri, Hb Lucknow, Hb Vellore, Hb Midnapore, Hb Bijnor, Hb A2Tianhe and Hb A2Saurashtra) were identified among persons of Indian origin. Majority of them were picked up on HPLC. Some of the variants like Hb Titusville, Hb Shimonoseki, Hb Chandigarh, Hb D Agri, Hb Yaizu and Hb Vellore eluted in the HbS window whereas variants like HbD Iran, Hb St. Louis, Hb G Coushata, HbM Saskatoon, Hb Lucknow, Hb Grange‐Blanche and Hb Tianshui showed falsely elevated HbA2. Hence, careful and systematic investigations are required to identify them.
Cancer immunity by tissue‐resident type 1 innate lymphoid cells and killer innate‐like T cells
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Albert M. , Kansler Emily R. , Li Ming O.
Published: March 2024

Cancer progression can be restrained by tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in a process termed cancer immunosurveillance. Based on how lymphocytes are activated and recruited to the tumor tissue, cancer immunity is either pre‐wired, in which innate lymphocytes and innate‐like T cells are directly recruited to and activated in tumors following their differentiation in primary lymphoid organs; or priming‐dependent, in which conventional adaptive T cells are first primed by cognate antigens in secondary lymphoid organs before homing to and reactivated in tumors. While priming‐dependent cancer immunity has been a focus of cancer immunology research for decades, in part due to historical preconception of cancer theory and tumor model choice as well as clinical success of conventional adaptive T cell‐directed therapeutic programs, recent studies have revealed that pre‐wired cancer immunity mediated by tissue‐resident type 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) and killer innate‐like T cells (ILTCKs) is an integral component of the cancer immunosurveillance process. Herein we review the distinct ontogenies and cancer‐sensing mechanisms of ILC1s and ILTCKs in murine genetic cancer models as well as the conspicuously conserved responses in human malignancies. How ILC1s and ILTCKs may be targeted to broaden the scope of cancer immunotherapy beyond conventional adaptive T cells is also discussed.
New Learning Environments in Design and Craft Education – Acknowledging the Learning of Design Literacy
Authors: Hofverberg Hanna
Published: March 2024

The aim of this paper is to contribute to the concept of design literacy by exploring what it means to learn design literacy through making. To support my argumentation, I draw on a case study where I followed two student teachers of design and craft as they learned design literacy through woodworking. Due to Covid‐19, the learning environment was located at the students' homes rather than the design and craft studio at the university. Two research questions guide the case study: What stories does the student recall from learning woodworking and what do these stories provide that are relevant for learning design literacy? Three ‘making’ stories are presented from the case study: (1) Making with the unknown, (2) Making alone educationally, and (3) The affective and embodied making. These stories provide numerous making skills that are relevant when teaching and learning for design literacy, which is further discussed in the paper.
ApoE4 dysregulation incites depressive symptoms and mitochondrial impairments in mice
Authors: Li Weifen , Ali Tahir , He Kaiwu , Zheng Chengyou , Li Ningning , Yu Zhi‐Jian , Li Shupeng
Published: March 2024

Apolipoprotein E4 (ApoE4) is involved in the stress‐response processes and is hypothesized to be a risk factor for depression by means of mitochondrial dysfunction. However, their exact roles and underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. ApoE4 transgenic mice (B6. Cg‐ApoEtm1UncCdh18Tg(GFAP−APOE i4)1Hol/J) were subjected to stress (lipopolysaccharides, LPS) to elucidate the aetiology of ApoE4‐induced depression. LPS treatment significantly aggravated depression‐like behaviours, concurrent with neuroinflammation and impaired mitochondrial changes, and melatonin/Urolithin A (UA) + 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide 1‐β‐D‐ribofuranoside (AICAR) reversed these effects in ApoE4 mice. Concurrently, ApoE4 mice exhibited mitophagy deficits, which could be further exacerbated by LPS stimulation, as demonstrated by reduced Atg5, Beclin‐1 and Parkin levels, while PINK1 levels were increased. However, these changes were reversed by melatonin treatment. Additionally, proteomic profiling suggested mitochondria‐related signalling and network changes in ApoE4 mice, which may underlie the exaggerated response to LPS. Furthermore, HEK 293T cells transfected with ApoE4 showed mitochondria‐associated protein and mitophagy defects, including PGC‐1α, TFAM, p‐AMPKα, PINK1 and LC3B impairments. Additionally, it aggravates mitochondrial impairment (particularly mitophagy), which can be attenuated by triggering autophagy. Collectively, ApoE4 dysregulation enhanced depressive behaviour upon LPS stimulation.
Retinoic acid induced specific changes in the phosphoproteome of C17.2 neural stem cells
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Ge Lite , Xie Huali , Liu Xiaoqian , Xun Chengfeng , Chen Yan , Chen Haiyan , Lu Ming , Chen Ping
Published: March 2024

Retinoic acid (RA), a vitamin A derivative, is an effective cell differentiating factor which plays critical roles in neuronal differentiation induction and the production of neurotransmitters in neurons. However, the specific changes in phosphorylation levels and downstream signalling pathways associated with RA remain unclear. This study employed qualitative and quantitative phosphoproteomics approaches based on mass spectrometry to investigate the phosphorylation changes induced by RA in C17.2 neural stem cells (NSCs). Dimethyl labelling, in conjunction with TiO2 phosphopeptide enrichment, was utilized to profile the phosphoproteome of self‐renewing and RA‐induced differentiated cells in C17.2 NSCs. The results of our study revealed that, qualitatively, 230 and 14 phosphoproteins were exclusively identified in the self‐renewal and RA‐induced groups respectively. Quantitatively, we successfully identified and quantified 177 unique phosphoproteins, among which 70 exhibited differential phosphorylation levels. Analysis of conserved phosphorylation motifs demonstrated enrichment of motifs corresponding to cyclin‐dependent kinase and MAPK in the RA‐induced group. Additionally, through a comprehensive literature and database survey, we found that the differentially expressed proteins were associated with the Wnt/β‐catenin and Hippo signalling pathways. This work sheds light on the changes in phosphorylation levels induced by RA in C17.2 NSCs, thereby expanding our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying RA‐induced neuronal differentiation.
CircRNA LOC729852 promotes bladder cancer progression by regulating macrophage polarization and recruitment via the miR‐769‐5p/IL‐10 axis
Authors: Dong Changming , Hui Pengyu , Wu Zhengqi , Li Jianfeng , Man Xiaojun
Published: March 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) function as tumour promoters or suppressors in bladder cancer (BLCA) by regulating genes involved in macrophage recruitment and polarization. However, the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the biological role of circLOC729852 in BLCA. CircLOC729852 was upregulated in BLCA tissues and correlated with increased proliferation, migration and epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) of BCLA cells. MiR‐769‐5p was identified as a target for circLOC729852, which can upregulate IL‐10 expression by directly binding to and suppressing miR‐769‐5p. Furthermore, our results indicated that the circLOC729852/miR‐769‐5p/IL‐10 axis modulates autophagy signalling in BLCA cells and promotes the recruitment and M2 polarization of TAMs by activating the JAK2/STAT3 signalling pathway. In addition, circLOC729852 also promoted the growth of BLCA xenografts and M2 macrophage infiltration in vivo. Thus, circLOC729852 functions as an oncogene in BLCA by inducing secretion of IL‐10 by the M2 TAMs, which then facilitates tumour cell growth and migration. Taken together, circLOC729852 is a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target for BLCA.
UVR8‐TCP4‐LOX2 module regulates UV‐B tolerance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Cheng , Du Jiancan , Xu Huini , Feng Zhenhua , Chater Caspar C. C. , Duan Yuanwen , Yang Yongping , Sun Xudong
Published: March 2024

The phytohormone jasmonate (JA) coordinates stress and growth responses to increase plant survival in unfavorable environments. Although JA can enhance plant UV‐B stress tolerance, the mechanisms underlying the interaction of UV‐B and JA in this response remain unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that the UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 ‐ TEOSINTE BRANCHED1, Cycloidea and PCF 4 ‐ LIPOXYGENASE2 (UVR8‐TCP4‐LOX2) module regulates UV‐B tolerance dependent on JA signaling pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana. We show that the nucleus‐localized UVR8 physically interacts with TCP4 to increase the DNA‐binding activity of TCP4 and upregulate the JA biosynthesis gene LOX2. Furthermore, UVR8 activates the expression of LOX2 in a TCP4‐dependent manner. Our genetic analysis also provides evidence that TCP4 acts downstream of UVR8 and upstream of LOX2 to mediate plant responses to UV‐B stress. Our results illustrate that the UV‐B‐dependent interaction of UVR8 and TCP4 serves as an important UVR8‐TCP4‐LOX2 module, which integrates UV‐B radiation and JA signaling and represents a new UVR8 signaling mechanism in plants.
The emerging neuroimmune hypothesis of bipolar disorder: An updated overview of neuroimmune and microglial findings
Authors: Chaves‐Filho Adriano , Eyres Capri , Blöbaum Leonie , Landwehr Antonia , Tremblay Marie‐Ève
Published: March 2024

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe and multifactorial disease, with onset usually in young adulthood, which follows a progressive course throughout life. Replicated epidemiological studies have suggested inflammatory mechanisms and neuroimmune risk factors as primary contributors to the onset and development of BD. While not all patients display overt markers of inflammation, significant evidence suggests that aberrant immune signaling contributes to all stages of the disease and seems to be mood phase dependent, likely explaining the heterogeneity of findings observed in this population. As the brain's immune cells, microglia orchestrate the brain's immune response and play a critical role in maintaining the brain's health across the lifespan. Microglia are also highly sensitive to environmental changes and respond to physiological and pathological events by adapting their functions, structure, and molecular expression. Recently, it has been highlighted that instead of a single population of cells, microglia comprise a heterogeneous community with specialized states adjusted according to the local molecular cues and intercellular interactions. Early evidence has highlighted the contribution of microglia to BD neuropathology, notably for severe outcomes, such as suicidality. However, the roles and diversity of microglial states in this disease are still largely undermined. This review brings an updated overview of current literature on the contribution of neuroimmune risk factors for the onset and progression of BD, the most prominent neuroimmune abnormalities (including biomarker, neuroimaging, ex vivo studies) and the most recent findings of microglial involvement in BD neuropathology. Combining these different shreds of evidence, we aim to propose a unifying hypothesis for BD pathophysiology centered on neuroimmune abnormalities and microglia. Also, we highlight the urgent need to apply novel multi‐system biology approaches to characterize the diversity of microglial states and functions involved in this enigmatic disorder, which can open bright perspectives for novel biomarkers and therapeutic discoveries.

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Post‐acute COVID‐19 syndrome in previously hospitalized patients
Authors: Eo Yoonsoo , Chang Sun Ju
Published: March 2024

Introduction

With the prolongation of the COVID‐19 pandemic, more individuals are experiencing sequelae after COVID‐19 infection, also known as post‐acute COVID‐19 syndrome (PCS). The aims of this study were to describe the prevalence and characteristics of PCS symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression and to compare these symptoms according to participant characteristics in patients who had been previously hospitalized due to COVID‐19.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional study design was used.

Methods

We included 114 individuals who had been hospitalized for COVID‐19 and were discharged from the hospital at least 4 weeks before. Symptoms were assessed using the Fatigue Severity Scale, the Hospital Anxiety‐Depression Scale, and the PCS symptom questionnaire developed by the authors. We used descriptive statistics, the Student's t‐test, the Wilcoxon rank‐sum test, and the Kruskal–Wallis test for statistical analyses.

Results

The most prevalent symptoms were anxiety (66.7%), fatigue (64.0%), headache (57.9%), and concentration or memory difficulties (57.9%). Concentration or memory difficulties and sleep disturbances had the highest mean frequency. Concentration or memory difficulties were rated with the highest mean severity, and cough, loss of taste, and muscle and joint pain had the highest mean distress scores. Female participants, individuals hospitalized for more than 2 weeks, individuals discharged more than 9 months ago, unvaccinated patients, and those who tried at least one symptom relief method reported higher symptom distress.

Conclusion

The findings of this investigation into the frequency, severity, and distress of symptoms shed light on the identification of post‐COVID symptoms in detail. To objectively evaluate and comprehend the symptom trajectories of PCS, prospective studies about the development of symptom assessment tools and studies with a longitudinal design should be conducted.

Clinical Relevance

A substantial number of respondents reported numerous symptoms and expressed symptom distress; therefore, the development of nursing interventions and treatments to alleviate PCS symptoms is crucial.
Augmented‐reality‐assisted intraoral scanning: A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Song Seung Jun , Tang Madison , Gwartzman Brynn , Lee Derek , Romandini Pierluigi , Salem Maurice , Kwon Patrick , Feiner Steven K. , Sailer Irena
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The aims of the present study were (a) to compare the scanning time and image count to complete optical scans of a typodont between augmented‐reality‐assisted intraoral scanning (ARIOS) and intraoral scanning (IOS); (b) to compare the accuracy of the digital casts derived from ARIOS and IOS; (c) to compare participant‐related outcomes between ARIOS and IOS.

Materials and Methods

A multi‐session within‐subject experiment was conducted to compare ARIOS and IOS. Thirty‐one dental students participated in the study. Following a trial session, each participant obtained optical scans under ARIOS and IOS conditions. The time required to complete the scan, and the number of images taken were recorded. Participant feedback was collected using entry, exit, and NASA‐Task Load Index (TLX) surveys. The accuracy of the digital casts derived from the optical scans was measured in root mean square error (RMSE).

Results

The present study found a 6.8% increase in preference for ARIOS from entry to exit survey. Slightly more participants favored the ARIOS setup compared to IOS; 54.8% of participants favored ARIOS, 9.7% were indifferent, and 35.5% favored IOS. NASA‐TLX subscale ratings were higher for IOS in general apart from mental demand. The accuracy of the digital casts between ARIOS and IOS was comparable in RMSE.

Conclusion

ARIOS was advantageous compared to IOS in ergonomics, improved scanner tracking, and ease of scanner orientation. However additional trials, increased field of view, and better superimposition of scanning status to the target site were improvements desired by the study participants.
Maxillomandibular relationship and virtual facebow integration in complete‐arch intraoral implant scan: A novel clinical technique
Authors: Nuytens Philippe , Grande Francesco , Li Junying , Lepidi Luca
Published: March 2024

This clinical report introduces a novel clinical technique to create a 3D virtual patient for transferring the edentulous maxillary arch position with maxillomandibular relationship by using a facial scan device and an intraoral scanner and omitting CBCT imaging.
Nursing staff adherence to guidelines on nutritional management for critically ill patients with cancer: A service evaluation
Authors: Parsons Marie
Published: March 2024

Background

Critically ill patients with cancer are at high risk of developing malnutrition, negatively affecting their outcome.

Aim

To critically analyse nursing staff's adherence to nutrition management guidelines for critically unwell patients with cancer and identify barriers which prevent this. Two areas of nutrition management were evaluated: early initiation (<48 h from admission) of enteral nutrition (EN) and continuation of EN without interruption.

Study Design

A retrospective data analysis was performed on mechanically ventilated adult patients admitted to a single cancer centre. Data from electronic patient records (EPR) were collected. Health care professionals' (HCP) documentation was analysed, and a nursing staff focus group (n = 5) was undertaken.

Results

Sixty‐four patient records were included. Early EN was not administered in 67% (n = 43) of cases. The reasons for the three longest interruptions to EN feed were as follows: delays in EN tube insertion, gastric residual volumes (GRVs) less than the recommended feed discontinuation threshold and endotracheal intubation. Four main themes relating to barriers to practice were identified from the focus group data analysis: HCPs' approach towards nutrition management, the patient's physiological condition and stability, multi‐disciplinary team (MDT) communication and guidance on nutrition management, and practical issues with patient care.

Conclusions

Multi‐disciplinary communication difficulties, lack of clear guidelines and inadequate awareness of the importance of nutrition for critically ill patients with cancer were barriers identified preventing optimal nutrition management.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Nursing education is fundamental to help break down the barriers to practice which prevent critically ill patients from receiving optimal nutrition management.
Ecological niche modelling to project past, current and future distributional shift of black ebony treeDiospyros melanoxylonRoxb. in India
Authors: Nitin Saraf Pooja , Srivastava Jyoti , Munoz François , Charles Bipin , Samal Pujarini , Quamar Mohammad Firoze
Published: March 2024

The present study utilized an ensemble modelling approach to predict the distribution ofDiospyros melanoxylonunder present, past (last glacial maximum (LGM), ~ 22 000 years BP, middle Holocene (MH) ~ 6000 years BP) and future climate change scenarios (RCP 2.6 and 8.5 for 2050s and 2070s). The annual mean temperature, mean temperature of the wettest quarter and annual precipitations were the most critical parameters that chiefly influence the distribution ofD. melanoxylon. The ensemble model rendered high accuracy with AUC = 0.93, TSS = 0.74 and Kappa = 0.71. Past projections ofD. melanoxylonindicated a widespread distribution during LGM and MH suggesting its adaptability to semi‐dry as well as warm and humid climate, respectively. Presence of fossil pollen evidence ofD. melanoxylonin the suitable habitats derived through past projections in this study complements the model results and marks occurrences of the species during LGM and MH. By 2050s and 2070s (RCP 8.5), there would be a decline in the distribution by only 0.4% (13 622 km2) and 0.2% (6842 km2) of the extremely suitable habitats, respectively. The main factor leading to reduced habitat suitability is the anticipated rise in temperature and variations in seasonal precipitation patterns. Our findings, help in identifying the parts of the country which would be severely affected by future climate change scenarios and plan conservation strategies for this commercially important species to facilitate its growth in suitable habitats which are likely to sustain under future climatic conditions.
Genomic and pangenomic analyses provide insights into the population history and genomic diversification of bottle gourd
Authors: Zhao Xuebo , Yu Jingyin , Chanda Bidisha , Zhao Jiantao , Wu Shan , Zheng Yi , Sun Honghe , Levi Amnon , Ling Kai‐Shu , Fei Zhangjun
Published: March 2024

Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Strandl.) is an economically important vegetable crop and one of the earliest domesticated crops. However, the population history and genomic diversification of bottle gourd have not been extensively studied.

We generated a comprehensive bottle gourd genome variation map from genome sequences of 197 world‐wide representative accessions, which enables a genome‐wide association study for identifying genomic loci associated with resistance to zucchini yellow mosaic virus, and constructed a bottle gourd pangenome that harbors 1534 protein‐coding genes absent in the reference genome.

Demographic analyses uncover that domesticated bottle gourd originated in Southern Africa c. 12 000 yr ago, and subsequently radiated to the New World via the Atlantic drift and to Eurasia through the efforts of early farmers in the initial Holocene. The identified highly differentiated genomic regions among different bottle gourd populations harbor many genes contributing to their local adaptations such as those related to disease resistance and stress tolerance. Presence/absence variation analysis of genes in the pangenome reveals numerous genes including those involved in abiotic/biotic stress responses that have been under selection during the world‐wide expansion of bottle gourds.

The bottle gourd variation map and pangenome provide valuable resources for future functional studies and genomics‐assisted breeding.
Does Proximal Adductor Canal Block Provide Better Analgesic Efficacy than Distal Adductor Canal Block in Patients Undergoing Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Li Qiangqiang , Zhuang Zaikai , Chen Dongyang , Tang Shaowen , Jiang Qing
Published: March 2024

To compare the analgesic efficacy and adverse events of proximal versus distal ACB for adults undergoing knee arthroplasty, we searched PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Embase to identify all eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The study quality of the RCTs was evaluated using the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool. Heterogeneity among studies was examined by Cochrane Q test. Our primary outcomes were pain intensity at rest/during movement and morphine consumption. Statistical analyses were conducted by RevMan Software. Seven eligible studies involving 400 subjects were included in this meta‐analysis with 202 participants in the proximal ACB group and 198 participants in the distal ACB group. The results demonstrated that proximal ACB provided significantly better pain relief at rest at 2 h (SMD −0.27, 95% CI −0.54 to −0.01, four trials, 222 participants, I2 = 0, p = 0.04) and 24 h (SMD −0.28, 95% CI −0.48 to −0.08, seven trials, 400 participants, I2 = 0, p = 0.006) following the surgery. We found no evidence of a difference in postoperative pain intensity at other timepoints. Furthermore, we noted no evidence of a difference in cumulative morphine consumption and occurrence of adverse events. Proximal ACB provides better pain relief and comparable adverse effects profile compared with distal ACB. The analgesic benefit offered by proximal ACB, however, did not appear to extend beyond the first 24 h. The overall evidence level was mostly low or very low, which requires more well‐organized multicenter randomized trials in the future.
OsKASI‐2 is required for the regulation of unsaturation levels of membrane lipids and chilling tolerance in rice
Authors: Zhang Lin , Wang Siyao , Bai Bin , Chen Yijun , Xiang Zhipan , Chen Chen , Kuang Xuemei , Yang Yuanzhu , Fu Jun , Chen Liangbi , Mao Dandan
Published: March 2024

Chilling stress has seriously limited the global production and geographical distribution of rice. However, the molecular mechanisms associated with plant responses to chilling stress are less known. In this study, we revealed a member of β‐ketoacyl‐ACP synthase I family (KASI), OsKASI‐2 which confers chilling tolerance in rice. OsKASI‐2 encodes a chloroplast‐localized KASI enzyme mainly expressed in the leaves and anthers of rice and strongly induced by chilling stress. Disruption of OsKASI‐2 led to decreased KAS enzymatic activity and the levels of unsaturated fatty acids, which impairs degree of unsaturation of membrane lipids, thus increased sensitivity to chilling stress in rice. However, the overexpression of OsKASI‐2 significantly improved the chilling tolerance ability in rice. In addition, OsKASI‐2 may regulate ROS metabolism in response to chilling stress. Natural variation of OsKASI‐2 might result in difference in chilling tolerance between indica and japonica accessions, and Hap1 of OsKASI‐2 confers chilling tolerance in rice. Taken together, we suggest OsKASI‐2 is critical for regulating degree of unsaturation of membrane lipids and ROS accumulation for maintenance of membrane structural homeostasis under chilling stress, and provide a potential target gene for improving chilling tolerance of rice.
Noninvasive intervention by transcranial ultrasound stimulation: Modulation of neural circuits and its clinical perspectives
Authors: Osada Takahiro , Konishi Seiki
Published: March 2024

Low‐intensity focused transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) is an emerging noninvasive technique capable of stimulating both the cerebral cortex and deep brain structures with high spatial precision. This method is recognized for its potential to comprehensively perturb various brain regions, enabling the modulation of neural circuits, in a manner not achievable through conventional magnetic or electrical brain stimulation techniques. The underlying mechanisms of neuromodulation are based on a phenomenon where mechanical waves of ultrasound kinetically interact with neurons, specifically affecting neuronal membranes and mechanosensitive channels. This interaction induces alterations in the excitability of neurons within the stimulated region. In this review, we briefly present the fundamental principles of ultrasound physics and the physiological mechanisms of TUS neuromodulation. We explain the experimental apparatus and procedures for TUS in humans. Due to the focality, the integration of various methods, including magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance–guided neuronavigation systems, is important to perform TUS experiments for precise targeting. We then review the current state of the literature on TUS neuromodulation, with a particular focus on human subjects, targeting both the cerebral cortex and deep subcortical structures. Finally, we outline future perspectives of TUS in clinical applications in psychiatric and neurological fields.
A concept of “cultural competence” among public health nurses in Japan
Authors: Hoshi Momoko , Nakano Kumiko , Iwamoto Megumu , Omori Junko
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To clarify the conceptual structure of “cultural competence (CC)” among Japanese public health nurses (PHNs), to enhance culturally appropriate support.

Methods

A modified grounded theory approach (M‐GTA) was used. A total of 11 municipal PHNs participated in this study. Data were collected through semistructured interviews. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed. A comparative analysis was performed using M‐GTA.

Result

Five categories were identified. Japanese PHNs supported foreign residents while (1) maintaining a sincere attitude with curiosity and humility toward others regarding CC; (2) deepening their realization of issues arising from awareness of one's own and other cultures; (3) developing their knowledge about clients’ cultures and the surrounding environments; and (4) mastering the skills of building a relationship with clients while creating supportive systems surrounding them. As they gained more experience in supporting foreign residents, as indicated in the above categories, their cultural competence grew, allowing them to (5) gain experience while encountering individuals without holding stereotypes and prejudice.

Conclusions

The concepts of CC that emerged are based on cultural humility and are cultivated through supportive activities. The concepts identified in this study can serve as educational guidelines for health nurses and other care providers in Japan.
The cooperation‐infrastructure nexus: Translating the ‘China Model’ into Laos
Authors: Harlan Tyler , Lu Juliet
Published: March 2024

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is frequently described as a ‘hard’ infrastructure programme of roads, railways, and ports. But a variety of ‘soft’ development cooperation activities—including trainings, dialogues, research, and development projects—have also been established under the banner of the BRI. We examine how this ‘soft’ cooperation works hand‐in‐hand with ‘hard’ infrastructure in what we call the cooperation‐infrastructure nexus. This nexus works in two parallel ways: cooperation activities establish discursive frames of Chinese development as a model to follow, while also creating channels of exchange and support that validate and facilitate infrastructure investments. These investments, in turn, legitimize and often provide direct channels for further cooperation. To make this argument, we present empirical research conducted in China and Laos in two sectors: hydropower and rubber. Both expanded rapidly in China over the past three decades and are held up as models to follow; both are also the basis for cooperation and infrastructure interventions across Southeast Asia. We show that Chinese rubber and hydropower cooperation activities serve both to frame existing projects positively and facilitate future investments in those sectors in Laos. The infrastructure established on the ground, however, rarely resembles the ‘China model’ upon which it is discursively based. Instead, we find that important obstacles and contradictions arise in translating China's domestic achievements into other country contexts. Our findings show the need to consider cooperation as intertwined with infrastructure, while acknowledging the disconnect between discourses of a China model and experiences on the ground.