bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Letter: diagnostic delay in inflammatory bowel disease—Authors' reply
Authors: Pollok Richard C. , Baillie Samantha , Jayasooriya Nishani , Blackwell Jonathan , Petersen Irene , Bottle Alex , Saxena Sonia ,   POP‐IBD Study Group
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Jayasooriya et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17370 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17483.
Editorial: faecal incontinence is prevalent in IBS, as are effective treatment options! Authors' reply
Authors: Goodoory Vivek C. , Ng Cho Ee , Black Christopher J. , Ford Alexander C.
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Goodoory et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17465 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17486.
Egg freezing, genetic relatedness, and motherhood: A binational empirical bioethical investigation of women's views
Authors: Pérez‐Hernández Yolinliztli , De Proost Michiel
Published: April 2023

Genetic relatedness figures heavily in contemporary ethical debates on egg freezing, although the arguments lack empirical‐based evidence. Rather than adding another theoretical view on the moral relevance of genetic connections, this paper instead proposes an empirically grounded perspective based on two independent qualitative interview‐based studies conducted in Belgium and France. Three themes emerge from our empirical data: (1) prioritizing family building; (2) centering the gestational experience of motherhood; and (3) identifying the complexities and limitations of adoption. These themes suggest that the relationship between egg freezing, genetics, biological motherhood, and adoption is highly complex and less straightforward than what is often assumed in the egg freezing debate. Our study provides more detailed insights into women's ambivalent experiences regarding those reproductive options. We discuss the ethical implications of our empirical findings and hold that pursuing genetic desire is not necessarily the main moral reason why women freeze their eggs.
Beyond “patient‐provider race matching.” Black midwives clarify a vision for race‐concordant care to achieve equity in Black perinatal health: A commentary on “Do Black birthing persons prefer a Black health care provider during birth? Race concordance in birth”
Authors: Jeffers Noelene K. , Canty Lucinda , Drew Michelle , Grayson Nikia , Amani Jamarah , Marcelle Ebony , Amore Alexis Dunn
Published: April 2023

Racial concordance has been identified as a potential strategy to improve the perinatal health of Black women and birthing people by mitigating implicit bias and improving mutual trust, healthy communication, and satisfaction. In a recent article published in BIRTH: Issues in Perinatal Care, Bogdan‐Lovis et al. surveyed 200 Black women to determine whether they possessed a race and gender practitioner preference for their birth practitioner and examined whether race and gender concordance was associated with greater birth satisfaction and perceived respect, trust, practitioner competence, empathy, and use of inclusive communication. In this commentary, written by a group of Black midwives, we respond to the study and offer a vision for race‐concordant care that encompasses cultural safety provided in a community‐based setting.
COVID‐19 infection in patients with haematological malignancies: A single‐centre survey in the latest Omicron wave in China
Authors: Zhu Xiaolu , Jiang Qian , Lu Jin , Sun Yuqian , Zhao Xiaosu , Yang Shenmiao , Tang Feifei , Yu Wenjing , Zhao Ting , Liu Xiaohong , Jia Jinsong , Duan Wenbing , Hu Lijuan , Wang Jing , Liu Yang , Peng Nan , Dou Xuelin , Ma Rui , Fu Qiang , Wang Huifang , Liu Kaiyan , Huang Xiaojun , Jiang Hao
Published: April 2023

As the COVID‐19 variant Omicron surge in Beijing, China, a better understanding of risk factors for adverse outcomes may improve clinical management in patients with haematological malignancies (HM) diagnosed with COVID‐19. The study sample includes 412 cases, mainly represented by acute leukaemia, chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), plasma cell disorders and lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. COVID‐19 pneumonia was observed in 10.4% (43/412) of patients, and severe/critical illness was observed in 5.3% (22/412). Among the 86 cases with advanced malignancies, 17.6% (12/86) of patients developed severe/critical COVID‐19, which was significantly higher than reported in patients with stable malignancies (9/326, 2.70%, p < 0.001). Similarly, the advanced malignancy cohort had a higher mortality rate (9/86, 10.5% vs. 0/326, 0%, p < 0.001) and a poor 30‐day overall survival (OS) compared with the stable malignancy cohort (74.2% vs. 100.0%, p < 0.0001). Overall, nine patients (2.2%) died. The primary cause of death was progressive HM in four patients and a combination of both COVID‐19 and HM in five patients. In the multivariable analysis, over 65 years of age, comorbidities and advanced malignancy were correlated with severe/critical COVID‐19 in HM patients. This study sheds light on the poor outcomes among COVID‐19 HM patients with the leading cause of advanced malignancy.
RNASEH2C c.194G>A is a Chinese‐specific founder mutation in three unrelated patients with Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome 3
Authors: Wang Qingming , Han Ye , Zhou Xinlong , Cheng ShuangXi , Wang Xin , Chen Xiaoli , Yuan Haiming
Published: April 2023

Biallelic pathogenic variants in RNASEH2C cause Aicardi‐Goutières syndrome 3 (AGS3, MIM #610329), a rare early‐onset encephalopathy characterized by intermittent unexplained fever, chilblains, irritability, progressive microcephaly, dystonia, spasticity, severe psychomotor retardation and abnormal brain imaging. Currently, approximately 50 individuals with AGS3 and 19 variants in RNASEH2C have been revealed. Here, we reported the novel clinical manifestations and genotypic information of three unrelated Chinese patients with AGS3 caused by pathogenic variants in RNASEH2C. In addition to three novel missense variants (c.101G>A, p.Cys34Tyr; c.401T>A, p.Leu134Gln and c.434G>T, p.Arg145Leu), one missense variant (c.194G>A, p.Gly65Asp) reoccurred in all patients but was completely absent in South Asian and other ethnicities. Our study expanded the variant spectrum of RNASEH2C and identified RNASEH2C c.194G>A as a Chinese‐specific founder mutation. The novel phenotypes, including mouth ulcers, hip dysplasia, retarded dentition and hypogonadism, observed in our patients greatly enriched the clinical characteristics of AGS3.
Advances in research on immune escape mechanism of glioma
Authors: Guo Xu , Wang Gang
Published: April 2023

Background

Glioma is the most common primary intracranial malignancy in clinical practice, and in particular, IDH‐wildtype glioblastoma has the worst prognosis. In recent years, surgical resection combined with simultaneous radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors has made some progress, but the efficacy is still not satisfactory, which may be related to the low immunogenicity of glioma cells and the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment.

Methods

A comprehensive review of relevant literature was conducted to explore the mechanisms by which tumors suppress antitumor immune responses and produce escape, with a focus on the immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME).

Results

The mechanisms involved in immune evasion of glioma cells are complex and involve with immune cell differentiation and function.

Conclusion

Our review emphasizes the need for a more profound comprehension of the mechanisms involved in immune response and immune evasion in glioma, to formulate more efficacious treatment modalities.
Common fragrance chemicals activate dendritic cells in coculture with keratinocytes
Authors: Peter Niklas , Lichter Jutta , Hagvall Lina , Bock Udo , Blömeke Brunhilde
Published: April 2023

Background

Fragrances are important contact allergens; however, investigation of their skin sensitization potency has been challenging in new approach methods (NAMs). Many fragrance chemicals are susceptible to autoxidation or can be metabolized by enzymes constitutively expressed in skin keratinocytes. Strong sensitizers can be formed in both of these processes. Further, keratinocytes can modulate the dendritic cell (DC) activation and maturation potential, a key event in the acquisition of contact allergy.

Objectives

To evaluate the 2D coculture model consisting of keratinocytes and DCs using different weak to moderate sensitizing fragrance chemicals. Further, to investigate fragrances and related oxidation products in the in vitro model and compare to in vivo data.

Methods

Chemicals were tested in the coculture activation test (COCAT), consisting of HaCaT keratinocytes and THP‐1 cells. THP‐1 cell surface expression of costimulatory and adhesion molecules (CD86 and CD54) collected after 24 h incubation with the chemicals was analysed using flow cytometry.

Results

Twenty‐four molecules were tested positive, three were negative (n = 27). Four pairs were evaluated, with aldehydes showing a 6‐ to 13‐fold stronger responses compared to their corresponding alcohols.

Conclusions

Results provide insight into the activation of DC in their natural environment of keratinocytes. α,β‐Unsaturated alcohols were classified as weaker sensitizers compared to their corresponding aldehydes. In sum, testing of fragrances retrieved results in good agreement with in vivo data.
Baffled‐flow culture system enables the mass production of megakaryocytes from human embryonic stem cells by enhancing mitochondrial function
Authors: Wu Xumin , Zhang Bowen , Chen Keyi , Zhao Jiahui , Li Yunxing , Li Jisheng , Liu Chuanli , He Lijuan , Fan Tao , Wang Chao , Li Yan , Pei Xuetao , Li Yanhua
Published: April 2023

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have become an ideal cell source for the ex vivo generation of megakaryocyte (MK) and platelet products for clinical applications. However, an ongoing challenge is to establish scalable culture systems to maximize the yield of stem cell‐derived MKs that release platelets. We defined a specific dynamic 3D manufacturing system in a baffled‐flow manner that could remarkably facilitate megakaryopoiesis and increase the yield of platelet‐producing MKs from hESCs within a 12‐day induction period. Additionally, an increased number of >16N ploidy MKs, proplatelets, and platelets were generated from induced cells harvested on Day 12 using the specific dynamic culture method. The specific dynamic culture method significantly enhanced endothelium‐to‐haematopoietic transition and early haematopoiesis. More importantly, MK fate was significantly facilitated in a specific dynamic manner during early haematopoiesis. Mechanistically, this dynamic culture significantly enhanced mitochondrial function via the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and caused differentiation skewing of hESCs toward megakaryopoiesis. This study can aid in the automatic and scalable production of MKs from stem cells using baffled‐flow bioreactors and assist in the manufacturing of hESC‐derived MK and platelet products.
Paradox and discovery: Iris Murdoch, John Wisdom, and the practice of linguistic philosophy
Authors: Jamieson Lesley
Published: April 2023

This article argues that Iris Murdoch, who was supervised by John Wisdom during her 1947–48 fellowship at Newnham College Cambridge, went on to practice philosophy in a recognizably Wisdomian manner in her earliest paper, “Thinking and Language” (1951). To do so, I first describe how Wisdom understood philosophical perplexity and paradox. One task that linguistic philosophers should take up is to investigate the concrete cases that give paradoxical philosophical statements their sense and to sift the truth they contain from the distortion. I then show how this vision informed his critical reception of Gilbert Ryle's The Concept of Mind as well as his own investigation of the Hidden Stream Paradox. Finally, I trace a similar approach to Murdoch's discussions of a paradox I call the Coarse Net Paradox. Recognizing Murdoch's intellectual inheritance from Wisdom enables us to see a thus‐far overlooked connection between Murdoch and the tradition of linguistic philosophy.
Nanoplastics alter ecosystem multifunctionality and may increase global warming potential
Authors: Zhou Yanfei , He Gang , Bhagwat Geetika , Palanisami Thava , Yang Yuyi , Liu Wenzhi , Zhang Quanfa
Published: April 2023

Although the presence of nanoplastics in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems has received increasing attention, little is known about its potential effect on ecosystem processes and functions. Here, we evaluated if differentially charged polystyrene (PS) nanoplastics (PS‐NH2 and PS‐SO3H) exhibit distinct influences on microbial community structure, nitrogen removal processes (denitrification and anammox), emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, and N2O), and ecosystem multifunctionality in soils with and without earthworms through a 42‐day microcosm experiment. Our results indicated that nanoplastics significantly altered soil microbial community structure and potential functions, with more pronounced effects for positively charged PS‐NH2 than for negatively charged PS‐SO3H. Ecologically relevant concentration (3 g kg−1) of nanoplastics inhibited both soil denitrification and anammox rates, while environmentally realistic concentration (0.3 g kg−1) of nanoplastics decreased the denitrification rate and enhanced the anammox rate. The soil N2O flux was always inhibited 6%–51% by both types of nanoplastics, whereas emissions of CO2 and CH4 were enhanced by nanoplastics in most cases. Significantly, although N2O emissions were decreased by nanoplastics, the global warming potential of total greenhouse gases was increased 21%–75% by nanoplastics in soils without earthworms. Moreover, ecosystem multifunctionality was increased 4%–12% by 0.3 g kg−1 of nanoplastics but decreased 4%–11% by 3 g kg−1 of nanoplastics. Our findings provide the only evidence to date that the rapid increase in nanoplastics is altering not only ecosystem structure and processes but also ecosystem multifunctionality, and it may increase the emission of CO2 and CH4 and their global warming potential to some extent.
PrEP for women in Europe: a systematic literature review
Authors: Fitzgerald Naomi , Coltart Holly , Dominguez Lourdes , Flanagan Kate , Gilleece Yvonne
Published: April 2023

Background

Prevention of HIV transmission is fundamental to ending the HIV epidemic. Pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with oral tenofovir‐emtricitabine (TDF‐FTC) is an established HIV‐prevention method; however, most PrEP services in Europe have been targeted at men who have sex with men (MSM). A survey in 2021 by Women Against Viruses in Europe (WAVE) showed considerable variation in PrEP access and guidance for women throughout Europe. WAVE therefore commissioned this systematic review to provide insight into PrEP provision and barriers to uptake for women in Europe.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched for studies (January 2013–May 2021) that reported on actual (e.g., efficacy and safety) or hypothetical (e.g., awareness, barriers, PrEP impact models) use of oral PrEP involving women (including cis, transgender, pregnant, migrant, and breastfeeding women). Search terms included HIV, pre‐exposure prophylaxis (specifically TDF‐FTC), and women. Studies performed outside of the World Health Organization European region were excluded.

Results

The search identified 4716 unique citations, and 45 peer‐reviewed articles (44 studies) were included. The majority of these studies (34/44 [77%]) included recipients or potential recipients of PrEP, representing 4699 women (243 transgender women). However, few studies were women focused (4/34 [12%]) or took place outside of Western Europe (3/34 [9%]). Across the three clinical studies that reported women‐specific outcomes (60 transgender women, 13 pregnant, and 19 cis women), no breakthrough infections were recorded during the use of PrEP. Lack of awareness of PrEP, low self‐estimation of HIV acquisition risk, concerns about stigma, lack of protection against other sexually transmitted infections, and PrEP interaction with hormones (for transgender women) were identified as barriers to use. The remaining studies examined healthcare professionals' perceptions of PrEP (9/44 [20%]), asked for public opinion (2/44 [5%]), or modelled the potential of PrEP for HIV prevention (1/44 [2%]).

Conclusions

This review revealed a notable lack of literature on PrEP for cis and transgender women in Europe. This is synonymous with a lack of PrEP provision for women in this region. Barriers to PrEP uptake are complex and rooted in institutional and societal stigma, which must be addressed at policy level. HIV prevention with PrEP is not ‘one size fits all’ and requires a nuanced gender‐responsive approach. Further research into the use of PrEP in cis, pregnant, breastfeeding, and transgender women is essential if we are to stop HIV transmission by 2030.
The propositive study: Immunogenicity and safety of a four‐component recombinant protein‐based vaccine against MenB and a quadrivalent conjugate MenACWY vaccine in people living with HIV
Authors: Isitt Catherine , Bartolf Angela , Andrews Nick , Athaide Shehnaz , Pryce‐Williams Richard , Townsend‐Payne Kelly , Borrow Ray , Ladhani Shamez , Heath Paul T. , Cosgrove Catherine A.
Published: April 2023

Background

People living with HIV have been shown to have an increased risk of invasive meningococcal disease. In some countries, meningococcal vaccines are now routinely recommended to all people living with HIV, but no study has yet assessed the immunogenicity and safety of a meningococcal serogroup B vaccine or the co‐administration of a MenB and MenACWY vaccine in people living with HIV.

Methods

This phase IV open‐label clinical trial investigated the immunogenicity and safety of two doses of a four‐component recombinant protein‐based MenB vaccine (4CMenB) and a quadrivalent conjugate polysaccharide MenACWY vaccine (MenACWY‐CRM197) given 1 month apart in a population of people living with HIV. Immunogenicity analysis was performed before vaccination and 1 month after the second doses of 4CMenB and MenACWY. Primary outcome measures were serum bactericidal assay geometric mean titres against three MenB reference strains at baseline and 1 month post vaccination, the proportion of participants achieving a putative protective titre of ≥4, and the proportion of participants with a ≥4‐fold rise in titre from baseline. Secondary outcome measures were serum bactericidal assay geometric mean titres against MenA, C, W, and Y reference strains at baseline and 1 month post vaccination, the proportion achieving a putative protective titre of ≥8, and the proportion with a ≥4‐fold rise in titre from baseline. Safety outcomes were solicited and unsolicited adverse events in the 7 days following vaccination. The trial was registered with clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03682939).

Findings

In total, 55 participants aged 20–45 years were enrolled. All participants (100%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 93–100) achieved putative protective titres for two of the three MenB strains and for MenA, W, and Y. A total of 98% (95% CI 89–100) achieved a protective titre for the third MenB strain and 94% (95% CI 83–99) for MenC. No serious adverse events were reported.

Interpretation

4CMenB and MenACWY were immunogenic and well‐tolerated in a population of people living with HIV 1 month after two doses.
Patient's experiences of dental implants, peri‐implantitis and its treatment‐A qualitative interview study
Authors: Malmqvist Sebastian , Erdenborg Jonas , Johannsen Gunnar , Johannsen Annsofi
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to explore peri‐implantitis patients' sensations, expectations, and experiences of dental implants, the disease, as well as undergoing treatment with laser or mucosal flap surgery.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 18 patients who had been referred for treatment of peri‐implantitis at a specialist clinic. The participants underwent either laser treatment or mucosal flap surgery of affected implants. Qualitative content analysis was used for processing the transcribed interviews with coding in categories and subcategories.

Results

The analysis of the interviews was presented in a narrative way to display the variety of experiences in this patient group. Losing teeth was perceived as frustrating and negatively impacted their quality of life; however, receiving dental implants improved some aspects of the patients' lives. While some have symptoms, others did not seem to notice the incidence and development of peri‐implantitis. Local anaesthesia was the worst part of both treatments and both modalities yielded only minor discomforts.

Conclusion

There were a variety of positive and negative sensations and experiences perceived by patients with dental implants as a consequence of peri‐implantitis, including a negative impact on quality of life. These findings emphasize the importance of thoroughly informing the potential and established dental implant patients of the risk of developing disease and its impact. The treatment of peri‐implantitis created in general only slight discomfort for the patient.
RGS10 negatively regulates apical periodontitis via TFEB‐mediated autophagy in BABL/c mice model and in vitro
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Yue Yuan , Chan Weicheng , Wei Wei , Liu Xinran , Wang Min , Li Jinle , Hao Liang
Published: April 2023

Aim

Apical periodontitis is a prevalent oral inflammatory disease that has recently been linked to transcription factor EB (TFEB)‐mediated autophagy. Regulator of G‐protein signalling 10 (RGS10) is reported to be an effective regulator of the immune system and inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of RGS10 during the development of apical periodontitis through the TFEB‐mediated autophagy signalling pathway.

Methodology

Sixty BALB/c mice were randomly divided into four groups of 15 mice for the in vivo experiment. Rgs10 was locally overexpressed through eight injections of an adeno‐associated virus vector. The model of apical periodontitis was established 21 days following pulp exposure, and the mice were euthanized to obtain mandibles for analysis. Micro‐computed tomography was employed to assess alveolar bone destruction, and the levels of Rgs10, TFEB‐mediated autophagy signalling factors and inflammatory factors were measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions, western blotting, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. All experimental results were displayed as images or graphs. For the in vitro experiments, we employed small interfering RNA (siRNA) to silence Rgs10 expression in RAW 264.7 cells. The data were analysed via one‐way anova or Mann–Whitney U test/Kruskal–Wallis test of variance, where p < .05 or U > 1.96 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Local overexpression of Rgs10 reduced alveolar bone destruction within the apical periodontitis lesion and significantly decreased macrophage infiltration (p < .05). Meanwhile, the expression of TFEB‐mediated autophagy signalling factors was upregulated, along with a decrease in inflammatory factor expression (p < .05). Lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells exhibited decreased Rgs10 expression and TFEB‐mediated autophagy signalling. siRNA‐mediated silencing of Rgs10 further suppressed autophagy and concomitantly upregulated inflammatory factors (p < .05).

Conclusions

Collectively, the findings revealed that RGS10 suppresses the inflammatory response and bone destruction through TFEB‐mediated autophagy in apical periodontitis.
State and situation of avian influenza in the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Badra Rebecca , Abubakar Abdinasir , Tempia Stefano , Alam Noore , ElNaja Hala Abou , Kayali Ghazi , Khan Wasiq
Published: April 2023

Avian influenza viruses have had a significant burden of disease on animal and public health in countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region. In this review, we aimed at describing the state of avian influenza in the region from 2011 to 2021. We gathered information available through the peer‐reviewed scientific literature, public gene sequence depositories, OIE World Animal Health Information System platform, World Health Organization FluNet, Joint External Evaluation reports, and governmental, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and World Organization for Animal Health websites. We used an interdisciplinary perspective consistent with the One Health approach to perform a qualitative synthesis and making recommendations. Analysis showed that although avian influenza research in the Eastern Mediterranean Region has gained more attention during the last decade, it was limited to only few countries and to basic science research. Data highlighted the weakness in surveillance systems and reporting platforms causing underestimation of the actual burden of disease among humans and animals. Inter‐sectoral communication and collaboration for avian influenza prevention, detection, and response remain weak. Influenza surveillance at the human‐animal interface and the application of the One Health paradigm are lacking. Countries' animal health and public health sectors rarely publish their surveillance data and findings. This review suggested that surveillance at the human‐animal interface, research, and reporting capacities should be enhanced to improve understanding and control of avian influenza in the region. Implementing a rapid and comprehensive One Health approach for zoonotic influenza in the Eastern Mediterranean Region is recommended.
Separate or combined effects of soil compaction and/or drought on gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence and physiological traits of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids
Authors: Grzesiak Maciej T. , Maksymowicz Anna , Hura Katarzyna , Dziurka Kinga , Ostrowska Agnieszka , Grzesiak Stanisław
Published: April 2023

In the natural environment, plants are subjected to simultaneous or sequential presence of various abiotic and/or biotic stresses, including soil compaction and soil drought. The effects of these stresses tested separately are relatively well understood, but still little is known about their simultaneous effects on plants. Our research involved four single hybrids of maize differing in their degree of susceptibility to soil compaction and drought. We investigated the effects of low and high soil compaction under optimal irrigation (LI, HI) and under three‐week long soil drought (LD, HD), on the gas exchange (Pn, E, gS, Ci) and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (F0, Fm, Fv, Fv/Fm), total leaf area (LA), leaf greening (SPAD), leaf water deficit (WD), leaf water potential (ψ) and membrane injury (MI). The plants experiencing high soil compaction (HI) showed a decrease in all parameters of gas exchange (Pn, E, gS, Ci), leaf area (LA), leaf greening (SPAD) and the maximal quantum efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm) in comparison with plants growing in non‐compacted soil (LI). An increase was observed in the other fluorescence parameters, i.e., F0, Fm and Fv and leaf WD, ψ and MI in HI vs. LI variants. In the plants exposed to drought (LD, HD), the changes in the measured traits were greater, especially for the sensitive hybrids P‐8400 and NS‐3023, than for the plants from LI treatment. A significant interaction between the degree of stress susceptibility and relative trait change was observed for practically all of the measured features. Moreover, in the short recovery period after the end of drought, the measured traits in LD and HD plants did not fully return to the control level, especially in the case of the sensitive hybrids (P‐8400 NS‐3023). The physiological reaction of maize hybrids to soil compaction and/or soil drought indicated the genetically determined variability of tolerance to those stresses. Significant correlation between RTC and stress susceptibility indexes (S‐SI) provided suitable criteria for the hybrid selection. Also, our results showed the plasticity and capability of maize hybrids to respond to environmental conditions.
Dielectric polarizability of SiO2 in niobiosilicate glasses
Authors: Gerace Katy S. , Lanagan Michael T. , Mauro John C.
Published: April 2023

Understanding the mechanisms contributing to dielectric properties of glasses is critical for designing new compositions for microwave frequency applications. In this work, dielectric permittivity was measured using a cavity perturbation technique at 10 GHz for a series of niobiosilicate glasses with the compositions (100‐2x)SiO2‐ xNb2O5‐ xLi2O where x = 32.5, 30, 25, and 15 mol%. Permittivity measurements and glass compositions were used to calculate the polarizability of each cation‐anion unit in the glass network using the Clausius‐Mossotti equation. The SiO2 polarizability in niobiosilicates was calculated to be 6.16 Å3, which is much higher than the SiO2 polarizability in fused silica glass (5.25 Å3), alkali modified silicates (5.37 Å3), and aluminosilicates (5.89 Å3). The increasing trend in SiO2 polarizability is attributed to the disruption in the connectivity of the SiO4 tetrahedral network as it accommodates different network formers. The high SiO2 polarizability of 6.16 Å3 accurately predicts measured dielectric permittivity when Nb2O5 = 25, 30, and 32.5 mol%, but overpredicts measured permittivity when Nb2O5 ≤ 15 mol%, which is attributed to a decrease in SiO2 polarizability as the percentage of corner sharing SiO4 tetrahedra with NbO6 octahedra goes down. This work demonstrates that SiO2 polarizability depends on chemistry and connectivity of the glass, which has important implications in designing glass compositions for microwave frequency applications.
Defining practice variation and exploring influencing factors on needs assessment in home care nursing: A Delphi study
Authors: Van Dorst Johanna (Jose) Isabella Elisabeth , Schwenke Marit , Bleijenberg Nienke , De Jong Judith Daniëlle , Brabers Adriana (Anne) Elisabeth Maria , Zwakhalen Sandra M. G.
Published: April 2023

Aim

To describe a Delphi study regarding practice variation in needs assessment by Dutch home care nurses, to define practice variation in home care nursing and explore which factors may have a role in this needs assessment.

Design

A Delphi study was conducted with the participation of home care representatives.

Method

A Delphi questionnaire was developed, preceded by literature research and an expert meeting. The Delphi study took place between December 2020 and February 2021. The goal was to achieve a consensus level of at least 70%.

Results

After three rounds, 32 experts reached a consensus about definitions regarding variation in needs assessment, warranted and unwarranted variation. In total, 59 factors were determined related to (1) the client and health, (2) the clients' context, (3) nurses and (4) the nurses' context. Thirty‐four factors scored warranted of influence and 18 (of 34) were client related. Most of the factors that scored unwarranted influencing needs assessment (17 of 26) were related to the home care nurses' context.

Conclusion

Having a consensus about the definition of practice variation in needs assessment and possible influencing factors support the professionals to discuss and improve the unity and quality of their decision‐making process in home care. This may contribute to more righteous care for clients in need of home care.

Impact

Since 2015, home care nurses in the Netherlands are responsible for determining the amount, type and duration of care for clients in need of home care. This so‐called needs assessment legitimizes the payment by health insurers. Signals of practice variation in needs assessment are heard in home care field. Although practice variation may be justified, it can lead to over or underuse of care, which may affect clients' outcomes. If we can identify influencing factors and find patterns that contribute to practice variation, we might gain a better understanding of the process and improve home care.

Patient or public contribution

In this study, there was no patient or public involvement. Client representatives were included in this research as experts in the home care field, and they participated in three rounds of the Delphi study. They contributed by sharing their expert opinion on the definitions presented and the factors possibly influencing needs assessment.
AtMAC stabilizes the phragmoplast by crosslinking microtubules and actin filaments during cytokinesis
Authors: Du Pingzhou , Liu Yu , Deng Lu , Qian Dong , Xue Xiuhua , Yang Ting , Li Tonghui , Xiang Yun , Ren Haiyun
Published: April 2023

The phragmoplast, a structure crucial for the completion of cytokinesis in plant cells, is composed of antiparallel microtubules (MTs) and actin filaments (AFs). However, how the parallel structure of phragmoplast MTs and AFs is maintained, especially during centrifugal phragmoplast expansion, remains elusive. Here, we analyzed a newArabidopsis thalianaMT and AF crosslinking protein (AtMAC). When AtMAC was deleted, the phragmoplast showed disintegrity during centrifugal expansion, and the resulting phragmoplast fragmentation led to incomplete cell plates. Overexpression of AtMAC increased the resistance of phragmoplasts to depolymerization and caused the formation of additional phragmoplasts during cytokinesis. Biochemical experiments showed that AtMAC crosslinked MTs and AFsin vitro, and the truncated AtMAC protein, N‐CC1, was the key domain controlling the ability of AtMAC. Further analysis showed that N‐CC1(51–154) is the key domain for binding MTs, and N‐CC1(51–125) for binding AFs. In conclusion, AtMAC is the novel MT and AF crosslinking protein found to be involved in regulation of phragmoplast organization during centrifugal phragmoplast expansion, which is required for complete cytokinesis.
Adherence to 24‐h movement guidelines among Chinese children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Xu W. H. , Wang L. J.
Published: April 2023

Background

Meeting 24‐h movement guidelines for children and adolescents has been associated with improved health indicators. However, the literature examining adherence to 24‐h movement guidelines among Chinese children and adolescents with intellectual disability (ID) remains lacking. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of meeting the 24‐h movement guidelines and its socio‐demographic correlates for this population.

Methods

The sample includes 319 Chinese students with ID. Accelerometers are used to measure moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity time and sleep duration. Questionnaires are adopted to measure screen time (ST) and demographic factors. Associations among socio‐demographic factors, body mass index and 24‐h movement are analysed by using multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

The proportions of participants who meet none, moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity, ST, sleep duration and all three recommendations are 8.15%, 33.54%, 54.23%, 75.55% and 17.55%, respectively. In general, multivariable logistic regression analysis indicates that older participants are less likely to meet the ST guidelines [odds ratio (OR): 0.931; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.869–0.998] and more likely to meet the sleep guidelines (OR: 1.106; 95% CI: 1.016–1.204) than younger individuals. Participants with moderate ID are less likely to meet the sleep guidelines (OR: 0.345; 95% CI: 0.140–0.850) than those with profound ID. Individuals from families with middle‐income (OR: 0.434; 95% CI: 0.226–0.836) and high‐income (OR: 0.219; 95% CI: 0.080–0.605) levels were less likely to meet the physical activity guidelines than those from low‐income families. Furthermore, participants from high‐income families were less likely to meet ST (OR: 0.426; 95% CI: 0.187–0.969) and all three movement guidelines (OR: 0.083; 95% CI: 0.010–0.659) than those in the low household income groups.

Conclusions

Interventions that improve the health‐related behaviours of children and adolescents with ID are needed, particularly those that target their increased engagement in physical activity.
Long‐term health‐related quality of life of total hip arthroplasty patients and cost‐effectiveness analysis in the Japanese universal health insurance system
Authors: Yakushiji Kanako , Fujita Kimie , Tabuchi Yasuko , Matsunaga‐Myoji Yuriko , Tanaka Satomi , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: April 2023

Aim

Total hip arthroplasty can effectively improve patients' motility with end‐stage osteoarthritis. This study aimed to: (1) compare gradual changes in utility values with total hip arthroplasty and estimated values without; (2) evaluate total hip arthroplasty cost‐effectiveness; and (3) evaluate cost‐effectiveness by age, diagnosis, and comorbidity.

Methods

Patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty between January 2008 and December 2009 were included. Patients completed the EuroQol preoperatively and at 1, 3, 5 and 7 years postoperatively. To derive the quality‐adjusted life years gained, a utility score was obtained from the EuroQol item scores and combined with 7 years, and estimates were obtained by discounting the postoperative 1‐year utility value at an annual rate of 2%–4%. Mixed‐effects regression models were used to compare the estimated and the measured utility values.

Results

Mean total cost was 1,921,849 yen, and quality‐adjusted life years gain score was 1.746 with per cost as 1,100,715 yen. Compared with actual measurements, the estimated values from 1 to 7 years post‐surgery differed significantly, and interaction was observed. Regarding age, the older the patient, the higher the cost per quality‐adjusted life years. Patients with lower preoperative physical function had higher quality‐adjusted life years gains, while the cost per quality‐adjusted life years was lower.

Conclusions

Total hip arthroplasty was cost‐effective. Compared with actual measurements, the estimated utility values from 1 to 7 years post‐surgery significantly differed. Even among older patients and those with impaired preoperative physical functions, its cost was lower than patients' willingness to pay in Japan.
Modeling Corporate Bond Returns
Authors: KELLY BRYAN , PALHARES DIOGO , PRUITT SETH
Published: April 2023

We propose a conditional factor model for corporate bond returns with five factors and time‐varying factor loadings. We have three main empirical findings. First, our factor model excels in describing the risks and returns of corporate bonds, improving over previously proposed models in the literature by a large margin. Second, our model recommends a systematic bond investment portfolio whose high out‐of‐sample Sharpe ratio suggests that the credit risk premium is notably larger than previously estimated. Third, we find closer integration between debt and equity markets than found in prior literature.
Potential mechanism for hyperhomocysteinemia in Greyhound dogs
Authors: Johnson Kelsey L. , Tiedeman Torrey , Peterson Hannah , Steiner Joerg M. , Trepanier Lauren A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Greyhounds have been reported to have hyperhomocysteinemia (HHC), but the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications are unclear.

Hypothesis

Our primary aim was to assess serum concentrations of homocysteine (HCy) and related analytes in Greyhounds and to identify a likely metabolic pathway for HHC. A secondary aim was to determine whether HHC is associated with evidence of oxidative stress.

Animals

Healthy pet Greyhounds (n = 31) and non‐sighthound control dogs (n = 15).

Methods

Analysis of serum HCy, cobalamin, folate, and methionine, and plasma cysteine, glutathione, and total 8‐isoprostane concentrations.

Results

Homocysteine concentrations were higher in Greyhounds (median, 25.0 μmol/L) compared to controls (13.9 μmol/L; P < .0001). Cobalamin concentrations were lower in Greyhounds (median, 416 ng/L) compared to controls (644 ng/L; P = .004) and were inversely correlated with HCy (r = −0.40, P = .004). Serum concentrations of folate, which is regenerated when HCy is converted to methionine, also were inversely correlated with HCy (r = −0.47, P = .002). Serum methionine concentrations were more than 4‐fold lower in Greyhounds (median, 3.2 μmol/L) compared to controls (median, 15.0 μmol/L), but this difference was not significant (P = .3). Plasma cysteine, glutathione, and 8‐isoprostane concentrations did not differ significantly between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Our findings suggest a primary defect in conversion of HCy to methionine in Greyhounds, with related impaired folate generation. Ineffective cycling by methionine synthase could lead to secondary cobalamin depletion. Notably, low serum folate and cobalamin concentrations can be observed in Greyhounds without signs of intestinal disease.
Detrimental role of SIX1 in hepatic lipogenesis and fibrosis of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Gao Xiaoliang , Chu Yi , Wang Weijie , Li Wenjiao , Zhang Wenyao , Cao Jiayi , Fu Xin , Liu Hui , Chen Di , Fan Daiming , Nie Yongzhan
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide. Aberrant lipid metabolism and accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins are hallmarks of the disease, but the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. This study aims to elucidate the key role of sine oculis homeobox homologue 1 (SIX1) in the development of NAFLD.

Methods

Alb‐Cre mice were administered the AAV9 vector for SIX1 liver‐specific overexpression or knockdown. Metabolic disorders, hepatic steatosis, and inflammation were monitored in mice fed with HFHC or MCD diet. High throughput CUT&Tag analysis was employed to investigate the mechanism of SIX1 in diet‐induced steatohepatitis.

Results

Here, we found increased SIX1 expression in the livers of NAFLD patients and animal models. Liver‐specific overexpression of SIX1 using adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) provoked more severe inflammation, metabolic disorders, and hepatic steatosis in the HFHC or MCD‐induced mice model. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that SIX1 directly activated the expression of liver X receptor α (LXRα) and liver X receptor β (LXRβ), thus inducing de novo lipogenesis (DNL). In addition, our results also illustrated a critical role of SIX1 in regulating the TGF‐β pathway by increasing the levels of type I and II TGF‐β receptor (TGFβRI/TGFβRII) in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Finally, we found that liver‐specific SIX1 deficiency could ameliorate diet‐induced NAFLD pathogenesis.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a detrimental function of SIX1 in the progression of NAFLD. The direct regulation of LXRα/β and TGF‐β signalling by SIX1 provides a new regulatory mechanism in hepatic steatosis and fibrosis.
Behavioural activity pattern, genetic factors, and the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A prospective study in the UK Biobank
Authors: Ge Xinyuan , Wang Xiao , Yan Yuqian , Zhang Lu , Yu Chengxiao , Lu Jing , Xu Xin , Gao Jiaxin , Liu Maojie , Jiang Tao , Ke Bibo , Song Ci
Published: April 2023

Background & Aims

Physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and genetic variants have been associated with the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, whether and how the degree of healthy activity patterns may modify the impact of genetic susceptibility on NAFLD remains unknown.

Methods

Behaviour activity factors were determined according to total physical activity (TPA) and sedentary time. The polygenic risk score (PRS) was calculated by variants in PNPLA3, TM6SF2, MBOAT7, and GCKR. Cox regression was used to analyse the associations of genetic and behaviour activity factors with incident NAFLD in the UK Biobank (N = 338 087).

Results

During a median follow‐up of 12.4 years, 3201 incident NAFLD cases were ascertained. Analyses of TPA and sedentary time simultaneously showed a dose–response association with the risk of NAFLD (ptrend < .001). The association of behaviour activity patterns with NAFLD varied by genetic variants. Of the subjects with high genetic risk, we observed a null protective effect of moderate or high TPA on NAFLD risk, while sitting less than three hours a day significantly decreased the risk of NAFLD (p = 3.50 × 10−4). The high genetic risk of NAFLD can also be offset by the combination of moderate physical activity and shorter sedentary time. Moreover, the high genetic risk group has the greatest reduction of 10‐year absolute risk (6.95 per 1000 person‐years) if reaching both healthy activities.

Conclusions

Moderate‐to‐high physical activity and favourable sedentary behaviour may be lifestyle modifications in preventing NAFLD, which could offset the harmful effect of predisposing genetic factors.
Women's empowerment, children's nutritional status, and the mediating role of household headship structure: Evidence from sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Christian Aaron K. , Atiglo D. Yaw , Okyere Michael A. , Obeng‐Dwamena Akua , Marquis Grace S. , Jones Andrew D.
Published: April 2023

We aimed to examine the association between women's empowerment and childhood nutritional status while accounting for the mediating role of household headship structure. Cross‐country, cross‐sectional quantitative data from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys (2015–2018) were used. Women's empowerment was measured as a composite index of participation in household decision‐making, attitude towards domestic violence, and asset ownership. Childhood nutrition status was measure as anaemia (haemoglobin concentration < 110g/L), stunting (height‐for‐age z‐scorescore <−2) and the co‐occurrence of anaemia and stunting. Applying the Lewbel two‐stage least squares, women's migration status was used as an instrumental variable. We used data on 25,665 woman‐child dyads from eight sub‐Saharan African countries: Burundi (2016), Ethiopia (2016), Guinea (2018), Malawi (2016), Mali (2018), Zimbabwe (2015), Uganda (2016), and Tanzania (2015). The women were in their reproductive ages (15–49 years) and children were under 5 years old. The findings showed that an increase in women's empowerment index reduces children's likelihood of being anaemic and having a co‐occurrence of anaemia and stunting [coeff (SE), −0.114 (0.025) and −0.072 (0.032), respectively]. Specifically, an increase in asset ownership or decision‐making dimensions of empowerment significantly reduces the likelihood of anaemia and the co‐occurrence of anaemia and stunting among children. Children of empowered women from male‐headed households were more likely to be anaemic and be concurrently anaemic and stunted compared to their counterparts whose mothers were from female‐headed households. Interventions designed to improve childhood nutrition through women's empowerment approaches need to consider asset ownership and instrumental agency of women while acknowledging the mediating effect of household headship typology.
Colour stability of 3D‐Printed orthodontic brackets using filled resins
Authors: Wallach Richard , English Jeryl D. , Moon Audrey , Brock Ralph A. , Paravina Rade D. , Kasper F. Kurtis
Published: April 2023

Objective

To determine the effect of common beverages and accelerated aging on the colour stability of filled resins, which could potentially be used for fabrication of 3D‐printed orthodontic brackets.

Materials and Methods

GR‐17.1 (shades A1, A2, and A3), and GR‐10 Guide resins (pro3dure medical, Eden Prairie, MN) were printed on an Asiga MAX UV printer into discs 2 mm thick, with a diameter of 10 mm, and then post‐print processed as per manufacturer's instructions. Discs were immersed in 5 mL of coffee, tea, red wine, or distilled water for 7 days. Another group was subjected to accelerated aging in accordance with ISO Standard 4892‐2. Ten samples were produced per resin, per treatment condition. Colour measurements were taken on the discs before and after treatment using a spectrophotometer against white and black reference tiles to assess colour and translucency differences with the CIEDE2000 colour difference formula.

Results

While initial colour of the printed resin discs was acceptable, all resin groups underwent significant colour change during the experiment. Red wine and coffee produced the greatest colour and translucency change, followed by tea, with accelerated aging producing the least change in colour and translucency.

Conclusion

The 3D‐printed resins tested underwent significant changes in colour and translucency following exposure to endogenous and exogenous sources of staining, which may affect their acceptability for fabrication of aesthetic orthodontic brackets.