bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mindfulness in a digital math learning game: Insights from two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bereczki Enikő Orsolya , Takacs Zsofia K. , Richey J. Elizabeth , Nguyen Huy A. , Mogessie Michael , McLaren Bruce M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Mindfulness practices enhance executive function skills and academic achievement, spurring interest in integrating mindfulness interventions into education. Embedding mindfulness practice into a digital math game may provide a low‐cost, scalable way to induce mindfulness and boost game‐based learning, yet this approach remains unexplored.

Objectives

We investigated the learning benefits of integrating mindfulness exercises in a digital math learning game and examined how students' trait mindfulness might moderate the outcomes.

Methods

Two classroom studies were conducted with 404 5th and 6th grade students from six public schools in the U.S. (nStudy 1 = 227, nStudy 2 = 177). The two randomized controlled experiments assigned students to one of the three conditions: passive control (playing the digital learning game Decimal Point), story‐enriched active control, or mindfulness‐enriched condition. Trait mindfulness, learning gains, and in‐game problem‐solving (including problem‐solving duration, error count and correctness after reminder) were assessed. Study 2 included a manipulation check to better understand the effects of the mindfulness intervention.

Results

Findings showed no significant differences in learning gains, problem‐solving duration or error count among the conditions. Students' trait mindfulness did not moderate these outcomes. Mindfulness reminders in the mindfulness‐enriched game led to more correct answers after errors than jokes in the story‐enriched game. Study 2 revealed that we failed to induce higher state mindfulness through the mindfulness inductions.

Conclusions

Mindfulness prompts could be especially beneficial for students experiencing frustration during gameplay, warranting more exploration for digital game‐based instruction. We highlight barriers and future directions for fostering mindfulness through computer‐based instruction in classrooms.
Have the effects of Covid‐19 been overcome? Levels of Covid‐19 fear, Covid‐19 anxiety and hopelessness in young adolescents: A structural equation modeling
Authors: Sarman Abdullah , Tuncay Suat
Published: March 2024

Objective

This research aimed to determine the level of fear, anxiety, and hopelessness of Covid‐19 in young adolescents’ post Covid‐19 period.

Design and Samples

Young adolescents in the 17–24 age group were included in this study, which was conducted in a descriptive‐cross‐sectional design.

Measurements

Sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire form and Coronavirus (Covid‐19) Fear Scale, Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, and Beck Hopelessness Scale were used to collect data.

Results

90.8% of the participants had been vaccinated, 26.9% had previously caught in Covid‐19, and 10.3% of those who had been caught in the disease had a severe course. 10.7% of young adolescents had to take medicines, 56.4% had a family history of Covid‐19, and 18.7% had lost a relative as a result of Covid‐19, was found. The level of fear, anxiety and hopelessness was higher among women, first‐grade students, those who did not receive the Covid‐19 vaccine, those who have caught in Covid‐19 before, and those who have lost a family due to Covid‐19.

Conclusion

It is thought that the increase in the awareness level of young adolescents about Covid‐19 improves preventive health behaviors and enables the development of positive behaviors related to the disease.
Understanding the paradox: anhedonia and the unexpected divergence from reward seeking during adolescence – A commentary on Gupta et al. (2024)
Authors: Guyer Amanda E.
Published: March 2024

Anhedonia is a symptom encompassing reduced or absence of motivation and pleasure that often emerges in adolescence and conveys risk for different mental illnesses and other difficulties. In their review, Gupta, Eckstrand, and Forbes (Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2024) present an empirically‐based conceptual neurodevelopmental model of anhedonia whereby brain development and pubertal maturation create openness to vulnerability to anhedonia that is influenced by early life adversity and chronic inflammation. This commentary considers anhedonia as a paradox of adolescence given its juxtaposition to the expected developmental milestones of adolescence. It highlights the need to consider anhedonia in terms of both variability and universality of children's experiences and biological development, missed opportunities for social relationships and experiences, and forms and functions of rewards and anhedonia.
Osteopathic manipulative treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases
Authors: Gillan Ross , Bachtel Gabrielle , Webber Kassidy , Ezzair Yasmine , Myers Nicole E. , Bishayee Anupam
Published: March 2024

Chronic inflammatory diseases (CIDs) are debilitating and potentially lethal illnesses that affect a large proportion of the global population. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) is a manual therapy technique developed and performed by osteopathic physicians that facilitates the body's innate healing processes. Therefore, OMT may prove a beneficial anti‐inflammatory modality useful in the management and treatment of CIDs. This work aims to objectively evaluate the therapeutic benefits of OMT in patients with various CIDs. In this review, a structured literature search was performed. The included studies involving asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, irritable bowel syndrome, ankylosing spondylitis, and peripheral arterial disease were selected for this work. Various OMT modalities, including lymphatic, still, counterstain, and muscle energy techniques, were utilized. Control treatments included sham techniques, routine care, or no treatment. OMT utilization led to variable patient outcomes in individuals with pathologies linked to CID.
Evidence of extensive multispecies macrofouling in Eckström's topknot Zeugopterus regius (Bonnaterre, 1788), Pleuronectiformes, Scophthalmidae
Authors: Davenport John , Dettaï Agnès , Chanet Bruno
Published: March 2024

Diverse and extensive macrofouling of the left‐hand (eyed) side has been observed in multiple films and photographs of different specimens of Eckström's topknot Zeugopterus regius. Identified foulers include macroalgae and tunicates. Photographs of unfouled specimens and preserved juveniles have also been inspected. Macrofouling is not universal in this species; unfouled fish were observed around the strongly tidal British Isles, whereas the worst‐fouled topknots were seen in the eutrophic, microtidal northern Adriatic.
Shewanella xiamenensis‐associated ulcerative dermatitis in koi carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus)
Authors: Rich Andrew F. , Naguib Mark
Published: March 2024

Ulcerative dermatitis (UD) is common in ornamental fish collections and is typically associated with a wide range of bacterial aetiologies. Clinical reports describing Shewanella xiamenensis‐associated UD are limited, however, despite growing attention to pathogenic Shewanella species in fish. Two out of 95 koi carp with UD were presented for clinical assessment by a commercial collection (n = 3000 fish) and subsequently killed on welfare grounds for necropsy. Both specimens exhibited extensive cutaneous ulcers and coelomic fat necrosis with petechial haemorrhages on post‐mortem examination. Shewanella xiamenensis was cultured from ulcerated skin tissues taken from both fish, with consistent intralesional gram‐negative rod‐like bacteria seen on skin scrape cytology. Histology also confirmed intralesional gram‐negative rod‐like bacteria within multiple ulcerative and erosive dermatitis lesions, plus myofibre necrosis and necrotising coelomic steatitis, in both specimens. Features associated with impaired generalised osmoregulation secondary to UD were detected within the striated muscle underlying the ulcers, the gills, and the caudal aspects of the kidneys. Additional histological features suggestive of sepsis were also seen in one of the fish. In the interim period, morbidity had increased from 3.2% to around 30% of the entire stock. Following culture results, increased pond water changes were implemented (q.2‐3d) and the remaining stock was treated with florfenicol, resulting in complete resolution of UD in the collection (as per client). This article highlights the first description of S. xiamenensis‐associated UD in koi carp/diseased ornamental fish in the United Kingdom.
Age‐Friendly Health Systems: From metrics to meaningful change
Authors: Gleason Lauren J. , Thompson Katherine
Published: March 2024

This editorial comments on the article by Wismann et al.
The effect of levothyroxine and prednisolone treatment on pregnancy in in vitro fertilization patients with positive thyroid autoantibodies
Authors: Agaoglu Zahid , Cevher Akdulum Munire Funda , Ozturk Agaoglu Merve , Mursel Konul , Karabacak Recep Onur
Published: March 2024

Aim

To investigate the effects of levothyroxine and prednisolone treatment, or in combination, on positive thyroid autoantibodies in infertile patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy.

Methods

This retrospective study included a total of 190 patients with positive thyroid autoantibodies (anti‐T and anti‐TPO) who underwent IVF treatment between January 2008 and March 2016. Patients were divided into four groups: group 1—levothyroxine group (n = 50), group 2–prednisolone group (n = 50), group 3–levothyroxine and prednisolone combination (n = 25), group 4—control group (n = 65). Anti‐T and anti‐TPO levels before IVF and at the time of embryo transfer (ET), b‐hcg positivity, clinical and biochemical pregnancy, miscarriage rate, and live birth rate were compared among groups.

Results

In levothyroxine‐treated group, mean anti‐TPO levels significantly decreased at the time of ET compared to before IVF treatment levels (p = 0.036). In group 3, mean anti‐T and anti‐TPO levels significantly decreased at the time of ET compared to levels before IVF treatment (p < 0.05). Patients who became pregnant in group 1, mean anti‐T anti‐TPO levels significantly decreased compared to before IVF treatment levels (p < 0.05). The biochemical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in group 2 (p = 0.03). Abortion rates were the highest in group 3, but no significant difference was found among groups. The group treated with levothyroxine had a significantly increased rate of live birth compared to the control group (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Levothyroxine addition during IVF treatment of patients with positive thyroid antibodies in subclinical hypothyroidism increases the take‐home baby pregnancy rate. Whether subclinical hypothyroidism or not in IVF treatment, levothyroxine is more effective than low‐dose corticosteroids.
The more you connect, the less you connect: An examination of the role of phubbing at home and job crafting in the crossover and spillover effects of work–family spousal support on employee creativity
Authors: Wang Siqi , Rofcanin Yasin , Las Heras Mireia , Yalabik Zeynep
Published: March 2024

In an era where home and work domains have become inseparable, it is surprising that extant research has placed less emphasis on examining the boundary conditions and mechanisms to understand the home‐to‐work crossover and spillover process. Building on the work–home resources theory and the crossover‐spillover perspectives, we test a resource‐based crossover‐spillover model of how one partner's work–family spousal support provision relates to the other partner's creativity at work. We propose that “phubbing” at home affects the crossover process of resource exchange between partners. Regarding the spillover from home to work, we propose that job crafting mediates the association between work–family spousal support and employee creativity. Daily diary data were collected from 65 dual‐earner couples, over 15 working days in the United States. Results from the multilevel actor–partner interdependence model show that work–family support enhances employee creativity by prompting the employee's relational job crafting and cognitive job crafting at work. Moreover, our results reveal that the high level of phubbing at home weakens the work–family support crossover between partners. We contribute to the literature by adding evidence regarding the mechanisms that enable social support at home to turn into employee creativity at work.
A translation and validation of the French version of the Gothenburg Trismus Questionnaire 2 (F‐GTQ‐2)
Authors: Girod‐Roux Marion , Tuomi Lisa , Finizia Caterina , Beldjoudi Anaïs , Métayer Claire , Faraoni Floriane , Fiot Lucile , Buiret Guillaume
Published: March 2024

Background

Limitation of mouth opening, widely known as trismus, is a major symptom altering quality of life in individuals presenting from temporomandibular joint disorder or head and neck cancer. A French‐language instrument addressing jaw opening limitation following treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC) or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) is lacking.

Objective

The aim of this study was to translate and validate the Gothenburg Trismus Questionnaire‐2 (GTQ‐2) into French.

Methods

A French translation of the GTQ‐2 was performed according to established international guidelines, leading to the French‐GTQ‐2 (F‐GTQ‐2). The validation study included 154 participants with trismus (minimum interincisal opening of ≤35 mm) following treatment for TMD or HNC and 149 age‐matched participants without trismus. All participants completed the F‐GTQ‐2 and participants with trismus completed additional health‐related quality of life questionnaires to allow for analysis of convergent validity.

Results

The F‐GTQ‐2 demonstrated retained psychometric properties with Cronbach's alpha values above 0.70 for the domains, jaw‐related problems, eating limitations, facial pain and somewhat lower for muscular tension (0.60). Mainly moderate correlations were found when comparing the F‐GTQ‐2 to other instruments, which was in line with the pre‐specified hypotheses, indicating satisfactory convergent validity. Discriminant validity was found with statistically significant differences in all domains of the F‐GTQ‐2 between trismus and non‐trismus participants.

Conclusion

The F‐GTQ‐2 can be considered a reliable and valid instrument to assess jaw‐related difficulties in individuals with trismus due to HNC or TMD.
Peer sexual harassment, appearance esteem, and emotional problems: Testing a mediation model across early adolescence
Authors: Gattario Kristina Holmqvist , Vira Emily G. , Lunde Carolina , Skoog Therése
Published: March 2024

This study used a longitudinal sample of early adolescent boys and girls (ages 10–12; N = 1113) to test a theoretically and empirically informed model suggesting that exposure to peer sexual harassment (age 10) predicts more emotional problems (age 12), and that lower appearance esteem (age 11) mediates this relation. On the within‐person level, which is the level on which the processes theoretically should play out, we found no support for the proposed mediation model for boys or for girls. Unexpectedly, we found that following times of more exposure to peer sexual harassment than usual, early adolescents instead experienced higher appearance esteem and fewer emotional problems than usual. More research is needed to replicate and understand these unexpected findings.
Workers' moral hazard and private insurer effort in disability insurance
Authors: Koning Pierre , van Lent Max
Published: March 2024

While it is well known that supplementary private Disability Insurance (DI) has the potential to increase workers' moral hazard, the extra coverage may also increase incentives for private insurers to reduce caseloads by means of prevention and reintegration activities. With unique administrative data on DI contracts of firms in the Netherlands, this paper aims to disentangle these worker and insurer responses to increased coverage. Supplementary insurance increases the insurers' incentive to lower disability risks, but in our setting it also creates an incentive for the insurers to facilitate partial work resumption of disabled workers who have earnings capacity. Using firm‐ and time‐fixed effects models on the absence and employment rates, we find that insurer effort counteracts workers' moral hazard.
The relationship between oral status and healthy aging in Chinese older adults: A community cohort study
Authors: Jilili Maitixirepu , Cheng Yan
Published: March 2024

Objectives

In recent years, there has been a growing academic interest in investigating the determinants of healthy aging. The main objective of this study was to investigate the association between oral status, as defined by tooth loss and denture use, and healthy aging among Chinese older adults over a four‐year duration.

Methods

The data were derived from the 2014 and 2018 waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis were employed for statistical analysis.

Results

The results suggest that older adults with ≥20 natural teeth have a higher likelihood of experiencing healthy aging compared to those with fewer than 20 natural teeth. In the fully adjusted model, only older adults with ≥20 natural teeth demonstrated a higher rate of healthy aging compared to those with 0 natural teeth, with an OR (95% CI): 2.09 (1.54–2.84).

Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of maintaining ≥20 teeth for promoting healthy aging among Chinese older adults. Furthermore, wearing dentures can, to varying degrees, mitigate the adverse effects of tooth loss on healthy aging. Rehabilitative interventions, such as the utilization of dentures and other clinical strategies, play a pivotal role in enhancing the oral health status of older individuals.
Melatonin MT1 receptors regulate the Sirt1/Nrf2/Ho‐1/Gpx4 pathway to prevent α‐synuclein‐induced ferroptosis in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lv Qian‐Kun , Tao Kang‐Xin , Yao Xiao‐Yu , Pang Meng‐Zhu , Cao Bing‐Er , Liu Chun‐Feng , Wang Fen
Published: March 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons and aggregation of α‐synuclein (α‐syn). Ferroptosis, a form of cell death induced by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, is involved in the pathogenesis of PD. It is unknown whether melatonin receptor 1 (MT1) modulates α‐syn and ferroptosis in PD. Here, we used α‐syn preformed fibrils (PFFs) to induce PD models in vivo and in vitro. In PD mice, α‐syn aggregation led to increased iron deposition and ferroptosis. MT1 knockout exacerbated these changes and resulted in more DA neuronal loss and severe motor impairment. MT1 knockout also suppressed the Sirt1/Nrf2/Ho1/Gpx4 pathway, reducing resistance to ferroptosis, and inhibited expression of ferritin Fth1, leading to more release of ferrous ions. In vitro experiments confirmed these findings. Knockdown of MT1 enhanced α‐syn PFF‐induced intracellular α‐syn aggregation and suppressed expression of the Sirt1/Nrf2/Ho1/Gpx4 pathway and Fth1 protein, thereby aggravating ferroptosis. Conversely, overexpression of MT1 reversed these effects. Our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which MT1 activation prevents α‐syn‐induced ferroptosis in PD, highlighting the neuroprotective role of MT1 in PD.
Signature Dynamics of Development in Second Language Sociolinguistic Competence: Evidence From an Intensive Microlongitudinal Study
Authors: Wirtz Mason A. , Pfenninger Simone E.
Published: March 2024

This study is the first to explore microdevelopment in sociolinguistic evaluative judgments of standard German and Austro‐Bavarian dialect by adult second language learners of German by using dense time serial measurements. Intensive longitudinal data (10 observations per participant) were collected from four learners at approximately weekly intervals over 3 months. We employed generalized additive models with superimposed periods of significant change to identify rapid developmental phases in individual developmental trajectories. By triangulating these models with qualitative introspective and retrodictive interview data, we identified environmental and psychological stimuli for change. Learners evinced increasing and decreasing periods of significant change, independent of length of residence. Dynamic constellations of identity‐ and agency‐related variables alongside more intensive social interaction with target‐variety speakers contributed to significant changes. We discuss findings from a complexity perspective and advocate for microlongitudinal studies in variationist second language acquisition to better capture stimuli for change in learners’ emerging multivarietal repertoires.
Predictive factors for transition to conversion therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma using atezolizumab plus bevacizumab
Authors: Kikuchi Tatsuya , Takeuchi Yasuto , Nouso Kazuhiro , Kariyama Kazuya , Kuwaki Kenji , Toshimori Junichi , Iwado Shota , Moriya Akio , Hagihara Hiroaki , Takabatake Hiroyuki , Tada Toshifumi , Yasunaka Tetsuya , Sakata Masahiro , Sue Masahiko , Miyake Nozomi , Adachi Takuya , Wada Nozomu , Onishi Hideki , Shiraha Hidenori , Takaki Akinobu , Otsuka Motoyuki
Published: March 2024

Background

To identify predictive factors associated with successful transition to conversion therapy following combination therapy with atezolizumab and bevacizumab in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

In total, 188 patients with HCC, who received atezolizumab plus bevacizumab combination therapy as the first‐line chemotherapy, were studied. Patients who achieved complete response (CR) with systemic chemotherapy alone were excluded. Clinical factors possibly linked to successful transition to conversion therapy and the achievement of cancer‐free status were identified.

Results

Fifteen (8.0%) patients underwent conversion therapy. In the conversion group, there was a significantly higher proportion of patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage A or B (73.3% versus [vs.] 45.1%; p = .03) and tended to have lower Child‐Pugh scores and alpha‐fetoprotein levels. Multivariate analysis revealed that BCLC stage was a predictive factor for the implementation of conversion therapy (A or B; odds ratio 3.7 [95% CI: 1.1–13]; p = .04). Furthermore, 10 (66.7%) patients achieved cancer‐free status and exhibited a smaller number of intrahepatic lesions at the start of treatment (3.5 vs. 7; p < .01), and a shorter interval between systemic chemotherapy induction and conversion therapy (131 vs. 404 days; p < .01). In addition, the rate of achieving cancer‐free status by undergoing surgical resection or ablation therapy was significantly higher (p = .03).

Conclusion

BCLC stage was the sole predictive factor for successful transition to conversion therapy when using combination therapy with atezolizumab and bevacizumab to treat HCC. Furthermore, a small number of intrahepatic lesions and early transition to conversion therapy were associated with the achievement of cancer‐free status.
A multi‐sectoral community development intervention has a positive impact on diet quality and growth in school‐age children in rural Nepal
Authors: Miller Laurie C. , Neupane Sumanta , Joshi Neena , Lohani Mahendra
Published: March 2024

Poor diet quality (diet diversity and animal‐source food [ASF] consumption) during childhood negatively affects growth, development, behaviour and physiologic function in later life. Relatively less is known about the impact of poor diet on the growth of school‐age children compared to children <5 years of age, especially in low/middle‐income countries. A better understanding of delivery strategies for effective interventions to improve diet and hence growth in school‐age children is needed. A 36‐month longitudinal controlled impact evaluation in rural Nepal assessed the nutrition and growth of children <5 years of age in families assigned via community clusters to full package intervention (community development, training in nutrition [during pregnancy and for children <5 years] and livestock husbandry), partial package (training only) or control (no inputs). Concurrent data were collected prospectively (baseline plus additional four rounds) on school‐age children (5–8 years at baseline) in these households; the present study analysed findings in the cohort of school‐age children seen at all five study visits (n = 341). Diet quality improved more in the full package school‐age children compared to those in partial package or control households. full package children consumed more ASF (β +0.40 [CI 0.07,0.73], p < 0.05), more diverse diets (β +0.93 [CI 0.55,1.31], p < 0.001) and had better head circumference z‐scores (β +0.21 [CI 0.07,0.35], p < 0.01) than control children. In conclusion, a multi‐sectoral community development intervention was associated with improvements in diet and growth of school‐age children in rural Nepal even though the intervention focused on the diet of children <5 years of age. The diet and growth of school‐age children can be favourably influenced by community‐level interventions, even indirectly.
Yosemite toad (Anaxyrus canorus) transcriptome reveals interplay between speciation genes and adaptive introgression
Authors: Maier Paul A. , Vandergast Amy G. , Bohonak Andrew J.
Published: March 2024

Genomes are heterogeneous during the early stages of speciation, with small ‘islands’ of DNA appearing to reflect strong adaptive differences, surrounded by vast seas of relative homogeneity. As species diverge, secondary contact zones between them can act as an interface and selectively filter through advantageous alleles of hybrid origin. Such introgression is another important adaptive process, one that allows beneficial mosaics of recombinant DNA (‘rivers’) to flow from one species into another. Although genomic islands of divergence appear to be associated with reproductive isolation, and genomic rivers form by adaptive introgression, it is unknown whether islands and rivers tend to be the same or different loci. We examined three replicate secondary contact zones for the Yosemite toad (Anaxyrus canorus) using two genomic data sets and a morphometric data set to answer the questions: (1) How predictably different are islands and rivers, both in terms of genomic location and gene function? (2) Are the adaptive genetic trait loci underlying tadpole growth and development reliably islands, rivers or neither? We found that island and river loci have significant overlap within a contact zone, suggesting that some loci are first islands, and later are predictably converted into rivers. However, gene ontology enrichment analysis showed strong overlap in gene function unique to all island loci, suggesting predictability in overall gene pathways for islands. Genome‐wide association study outliers for tadpole development included LPIN3, a lipid metabolism gene potentially involved in climate change adaptation, that is island‐like for all three contact zones, but also appears to be introgressing (as a river) across one zone. Taken together, our results suggest that adaptive divergence and introgression may be more complementary forces than currently appreciated.
That's not what you said! Semantic constraints on literal speech
Authors: Fisher Sarah A.
Published: March 2024

According to some philosophers, a sentence's semantics can fail to constitute a complete propositional content, imposing mere constraints on such a content. Recently, Daniel Harris has begun developing a formal constraint semantics. He claims that the semantic values of sentences constrain what speakers can literally say with them—and what hearers can know about what was said. However, that claim is undermined by his conception of semantics as the study of a psychological module. I argue instead that semantic constraints should be understood as properties of public languages.
Assessment of Mayaro virus vector competence of the mosquito Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) populations in Argentine using dose–response assays
Authors: Beranek Mauricio Daniel , Giayetto Octavio , Fischer Sylvia , Diaz Adrián
Published: March 2024

Mayaro virus (MAYV; Alphavirus: Togaviridae) is an emerging pathogen in Latin America, causing fever and polyarthritis. Sporadic outbreaks of MAYV have occurred in the region, with reported human cases being imported to Europe and North America. Although primarily a risk for those residing in the Amazon basin's tropical forests, recent reports highlight that urbanization would increase the risk of MAYV transmission in Latin America. Urban emergence depends on human susceptibility and the ability of mosquitos like Aedes aegypti  (Linnaeus, 1762) (Diptera: Culicidae) to transmit MAYV. Despite the absence of active MAYV transmission in Argentine, the risk of introduction is substantial due to human movement and the presence of Ae. aegypti in the region. This study aimed to evaluate the susceptibility of different Argentine Ae. aegypti populations to MAYV genotype L (MAYV‐L) using dose–response assays and determine barriers to virus infection, dissemination and transmission. Immature mosquito stages were collected in Buenos Aires, Córdoba and Rosario cities. Female Ae. aegypti (F2) were orally infected by feeding on five concentrations of MAYV‐L, ranging from 1.0 to 6.0 log10 PFU/mL. Abdomens, legs and saliva were analysed using viral plaque assays. Results revealed that MAYV‐L between infection and dissemination were associated with viral doses rather than the population origin. Infection rates varied between 3% and 65%, with a 50% infectious dose >5.5 log10 PFU/mL. Dissemination occurred at 39%, with a 50% dissemination dose of ~6.0 log10 PFU/mL. Dissemination among infected mosquitoes ranged from 60% to 86%, and transmission from disseminated mosquitoes ranged from 11% to 20%. Argentine Ae. aegypti populations exhibited a need for higher viral doses of MAYV‐L than those typically found in humans to become infected. In addition, only a small proportion of infected mosquitoes were capable of transmitting the virus. Understanding MAYV transmission in urban areas is crucial for public health interventions.
Huanglian‐banxia promotes gastric motility of diabetic rats by modulating brain‐gut neurotransmitters through MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Wei , Chen Qiong , Huang Jiayi , Shen Xianmin , Zhang Lurong , Jiang Guorong , Wu Tingting , Wang Fei , Cheng Xudong
Published: March 2024

Background

Gastric motility disorder is an increasingly common problem among people with diabetes. Neurotransmitters have been recognized as critical regulators in the process of gastric motility. Previous study has shown that herb pair huanglian‐banxia (HL‐BX) can improve gastric motility, but the underlying mechanism is still unclear. The aim of this study was to further investigate the role of HL‐BX in modulating brain‐gut neurotransmission to promote gastric motility in diabetic rats, and to explore its possible mechanism.

Methods

The diabetic rats were divided into five groups. Gastric emptying rate, intestinal propulsion rate, body weight, and average food intake were determined. Substance P (SP), 5‐ hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT), and glucagon‐like peptide −1 (GLP‐1) in the serum were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Dopamine (DA) and norepinephrine (NE) in the brain were analyzed by high‐pressure liquid chromatography with a fluorescence detector. Protein expression of the tissues in the stomach and brain was determined by Western blot.

Key Results

HL‐BX reduced average food intake significantly, increased body weight, and improved gastric emptying rate and intestinal propulsion rate. HL‐BX administration caused a significant increase in SP, GLP‐1, and 5‐HT, but a significant decrease in DA and NE. Interestingly, HL‐BX regulated simultaneously the different expressions of MAPK and its downstream p70S6K/S6 signaling pathway in the stomach and brain. Moreover, berberine exhibited a similar effect to HL‐BX.

Conclusions

These results indicated that HL‐BX promoted gastric motility by regulating brain‐gut neurotransmitters through the MAPK signaling pathway. HL‐BX and MAPK provide a potential therapeutic option for the treatment of gastroparesis.
Brexit: Trade Diversion due to Trade Policy Uncertainty
Authors: Gutiérrez Eduardo , Lacuesta Aitor , Martín‐Machuca César
Published: March 2024

The paper quantifies how much of the reduction in Spanish trade flows with the UK after the 2016 Brexit referendum was diverted to other markets. To obtain reliable estimates of trade diversion we regress firm‐level changes in flows with all markets except the UK on changes in flows with the UK. In order to solve the positive correlation of trade flows between different markets we use the Brexit referendum as part of our instrumental variable. We then treat firms as units subjected to differential uncertainty shocks according to their initial patterns of sector and trade specialization. In particular, the referendum date is interacted with potential sectoral tariffs and pre‐referendum firm‐level exposure to the UK. The paper shows a close to full trade diversion for exports, mostly to other European countries, for those firms more exposed to that particular market (above 10%) and a heterogeneous response on the part of Spanish firms with low exposure (below 10%). Trade diversion for imports is weaker but the results are less robust. Given a particular share of exposure to the UK market, trade diversion appears to be more limited for big companies in comparison to small companies.
Evaluating the efficacy of OralDETECT training: Face‐to‐face versus online delivery in dental education
Authors: Ramanathan Anand , Zaini Zuraiza Mohamad , Ghani Wan Maria Nabillah , Wong Gou Rean , Zainuddin Nurul Izyan , Yang Yi Hsin , Zain Rosnah Binti
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study evaluated the effectiveness of face‐to‐face (F2F) and online OralDETECT training programme in enhancing early detection skills for oral cancer.

Methods

A total of 328 final‐year dental students were trained across six cohorts. Three cohorts (175 students) received F2F training from the academic years 2016/2017 to 2018/2019, and the remaining three (153 students) underwent online training during the Covid‐19 pandemic from 2019/2020 to 2021/2022. Participant scores were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test, the Mann‐Whitney test, Cohen's d effect size, and multiple linear regression.

Results

Both F2F and online training showed increases in mean scores from pre‐test to post‐test 3: from 67.66 ± 11.81 to 92.06 ± 5.27 and 75.89 ± 11.03 to 90.95 ± 5.22, respectively. Comparison between F2F and online methods revealed significant differences in mean scores with large effect sizes at the pre‐test stage (p < 0.001), while significant differences with small effect sizes were noted for post‐test 1 (p = 0.002) and post‐test 3 (p = 0.041). Regression analysis indicated that the delivery method is associated with the participants' final scores.

Conclusion

F2F and online versions of the OralDETECT training programme significantly enhance participants' knowledge and skills in oral cancer detection. Although F2F appeared to be more effective, the difference was not substantial enough to be considered educationally meaningful.
FGFR2 and miR‐889‐3p expression in oral cancer is associated with cervical lymph node metastasis
Authors: Mehdikhani Fariba , Atashbasteh Mostafa , Azadi Mehdi , Allameh Abdolamir
Published: March 2024

Objective

Fibroblast growth factor receptor‐2 (FGFR2) and miR‐889‐3p expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tumours were compared to normal controls. We then examined the relationship between miR‐889‐3p, FGFR2 expression and patient clinicopathological features.

Materials and Methods

The interaction of FGFR2 and miR‐889‐3p was investigated using bioinformatics. Then, OSCC tumour biopsies and normal gingiva were collected and processed for expression analysis of FGFR2‐specific mRNA and miR‐889‐3p using real‐time PCR. Immunohistochemistry evaluated the expression of the FGFR2 protein.

Results

The protein and mRNA expression levels of FGFR2 were significantly greater in tumours when contrasted with controls. Expression of miR‐889‐3p was significantly lower in OSCC compared to normal tissues. The FGFR2 and miR‐889‐3p expressions were inversely related (−0.86 and −0.73, respectively) in both cases and controls. Changes in miR‐889‐3p and FGFR2 expression in tumour tissues were associated with lymph node metastasis (LNM), with ~0.57 and ~3.0 folds of change in positive‐LNM patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Decreased expression of miR‐889‐3p in OSCC tumours suggests that miR‐889‐3p functions as a tumour suppressor gene. Overexpression of FGFR2 further proves the role of miR‐889‐3p in the regulation of the FGFR2 pathway. This was further confirmed by showing differences in miR‐889‐3p expression in positive and negative LNM cases.
Comparison of Two Surgical Approaches for Periacetabular Osteotomy: A Retrospective Study of Patients with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Guo Haitao , Jin Hongfu , Cheng Yuanyuan , Mei Yufeng , Li Hui , Vithran Djandan Tadum Arthur , Liu Shuguang , Li Jun
Published: March 2024

Objective

Given the intricate challenges and potential complications associated with periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Our study aimed to compare the clinical and imaging benefits and drawbacks of two surgical approaches, the modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach and the modified Smith–Peterson approach, for treating PAO and to provide guidance for selecting clinical approaches.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 56 patients with 62 DDHs was conducted from June 2018 to January 2022. The experimental group underwent surgery via the modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach, while the control group underwent surgery via the modified Smith–Peterson approach for periacetabular osteotomy and internal fixation. Basic statistical parameters, including age, sex, BMI, and preoperative imaging data, were analyzed. Differences in surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative imaging data were compared, as were differences in preoperative and postoperative imaging data between the two groups.

Results

There were 28 hips in the experimental group and 34 in the control group. Moreover, there was no significant difference in the basic parameters between the experimental and control groups. Before and after the operation, for the LCE angle, ACE angle, and Tonnis angle, there was no significant difference in acetabular coverage (p > 0.05). However, there were significant differences between the two groups in terms of the above four indicators before and after the operation (p < 0.05). After the operation, the experimental group exhibited significant increases in both lateral and anterior acetabular coverage of the femoral head. However, the experimental group had longer operation times and greater bleeding volumes than did the control group. Despite this, the experimental group demonstrated significant advantages in protecting the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve compared to the control group.

Conclusion

The modified Stoppa combined iliac spine approach can be considered a practical approach for PAO and is more suitable for patients with DDH who plan to be treated by one operation than the classic modified Smith–Peterson approach for PAO.
Adherence to adhesive patch electrocardiographic monitoring among adults with disabilities
Authors: Patrick Patricia A. , Flatley Andrew J. , Obermeyer Izel Steinmann , Lentnek Ian A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities (I/DD) are at a greater risk for atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia. AF is associated with heart failure, stroke, poor mental health, and reduced quality of life. Management and treatment decisions are based on the ability to detect AF; however, noninvasive, remote cardiac monitoring may not be tolerated by individuals with I/DD.

Objective

To examine adherence to the placement of an ambulatory cardiac rhythm monitoring patch device by adult patients with I/DD.

Methods

Investigators extracted chart data from a consecutive series of adult patients (18 years+) who received the patch device as part of standard treatment at an adult health center between November 1, 2015 and October 31, 2019.

Results

A total of 95 patients were included in data analysis. Average age of subjects was 53.8 ± 13.9 years (range: 20.2–88.5); 66.7% were male. All subjects had intellectual disabilities as follows: mild, 37.9%; moderate, 29.5%; severe, 21.0%; and, profound, 11.6%. With a prescribed duration of 14 days, subjects wore the device a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 12.2 days (4.1–14.0); total analysis time was a median of 9.5 days (3.4–13.5). A total of 29 subjects (30.5%) received cardiac diagnoses not previously identified (median = 1 new diagnosis; range: 1–5).

Conclusions

This pilot study suggests the possible utility of an ambulatory monitoring patch device in an adult population with I/DD. Investigators recommend larger studies to confirm such preliminary findings to ultimately improve clinical management and patient quality of life.
PagARGOS promotes low‐lignin wood formation in poplar
Authors: Yao Xiaomin , Zhang Guifang , Zhang Geng , Sun Qian , Liu Cuimei , Chu Jinfang , Jing Yanping , Niu Shihui , Fu Chunxiang , Lew Tedrick Thomas Salim , Lin Jinxing , Li Xiaojuan
Published: March 2024

Wood formation, which occurs mainly through secondary xylem development, is important not only for supplying raw material for the ‘ligno‐chemical’ industry but also for driving the storage of carbon. However, the complex mechanisms underlying the promotion of xylem formation remain to be elucidated. Here, we found that overexpression of Auxin‐Regulated Gene involved in Organ Size (ARGOS) in hybrid poplar 84 K (Populus alba × Populus tremula var. glandulosa) enlarged organ size. In particular, PagARGOS promoted secondary growth of stems with increased xylem formation. To gain further insight into how PagARGOS regulates xylem development, we further carried out yeast two‐hybrid screening and identified that the auxin transporter WALLS ARE THIN1 (WAT1) interacts with PagARGOS. Overexpression of PagARGOS up‐regulated WAT1, activating a downstream auxin response promoting cambial cell division and xylem differentiation for wood formation. Moreover, overexpressing PagARGOS caused not only higher wood yield but also lower lignin content compared with wild‐type controls. PagARGOS is therefore a potential candidate gene for engineering fast‐growing and low‐lignin trees with improved biomass production.
Phototherapy for vitiligo: Quality and readability of online health information
Authors: Nayudu Krithika , Malik Rhea , Sanchez‐Melendez Stephanie , Hazen T. J. , Patil Mihir K. , Nambudiri Vinod E.
Published: March 2024

Background/Purpose

Vitiligo is a depigmenting disorder that affects up to 2% of the population. Due to the relatively high prevalence of this disease and its psychological impact on patients, decisions concerning treatment can be difficult. As patients increasingly seek health information online, the caliber of online health information (OHI) becomes crucial in patients' decisions regarding their care. We aimed to assess the quality and readability of OHI regarding phototherapy in the management of vitiligo.

Methods

Similar to previously published studies assessing OHI, we used 5 medical search terms as a proxy for online searches made by patients. Results for each search term were assessed using an enhanced DISCERN analysis, Health On the Net code of conduct (HONcode) accreditation guidelines, and several readability indices. The DISCERN analysis is a validated questionnaire used to assess the quality of OHI, while HONcode accreditation is a marker of site reliability.

Results

Of the 500 websites evaluated, 174 were HONcode‐accredited (35%). Mean DISCERN scores for all websites were 58.9% and 51.7% for website reliability and treatment sections, respectively. Additionally, 0/130 websites analyzed for readability scored at the NIH‐recommended sixth‐grade reading level.

Conclusion

These analyses shed light on the shortcomings of OHI regarding phototherapy treatment for vitiligo, which could exacerbate disparities for patients who are already at higher risk of worse health outcomes.
Parliamentary questions, institutional change, and legislative oversight in a non‐Western context
Authors: Aboelwafa Tarek , Yaghi Abdulfattah
Published: March 2024

This study examines how the Federal National Council (FNC), the parliament of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), transformed from a consultative body to a legislative institution through gradual and incremental changes. It argues that the increasing number of parliamentary questions led to legal, procedural, and behavioral changes in the FNC, influenced by external (government support and public pressure) and internal (rationality, competence, incrementalism, and system development) factors. The success of this transformation is attributed to its gradual nature. Anticipating continued momentum, the study outlines future prospects shaped by the UAE government's commitment to FNC empowerment, heightened public expectations, and the influx of educated and experienced individuals into parliamentary roles. This ongoing institutional change reflects a responsive adaptation to evolving governance demands in the UAE. The study contributes to the theory of institutions and the understanding of legislative oversight in newly liberalized political systems.

Related Articles

Antwi‐Boateng, Osman, and Noura Hamad Salim Al Jaberi. 2022. “The Post‐Oil Strategy of the UAE: An Examination of Diversification Strategies and Challenges.” Politics & Policy 50(2): 380–407. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12457.

Jouini, Nizar, and Manel Ben Akal. 2022. “Political Consensus, Economic Reforms, and Democratic Transitions in the Middle East: Evidence from Voting on Tunisian Reform Bills.” Politics & Policy 50(4): 851–71. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12489.

Sarquís, David J. 2012. “Democratization after the Arab Spring: The Case of Egypt's Political Transition.” Politics & Policy 40(5): 871–903. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2012.00381.x.
Five major themes in legislative committees' research between 2010 and 2023: A review
Authors: Ambasa Elijah , Otele Oscar M. , Onyango Gedion
Published: March 2024

Legislative committees have recently received inadequate attention in the available interjurisdictional literature. This article in the 2024 Policy Studies Yearbook, published by Politics & Policy, reviews legislative committee data categories, methods, and the distribution of authorship to explore how legislative committee research has fared between 2010 and 2023. This review article establishes that since 2010, research on committee structure has been dominated by U.S. congressional theories and how to test them in noncongressional settings. The dominant aspect of legislative organization across the five reviewed themes is the selection of committee members, an essential aspect of understanding power dynamics in modern legislatures. As survey methods and case studies have increased, the archival analysis methods have decreased, indicating an increasing turn to first‐hand primary data in analyzing the internal organization of committees. There is also a growing trend toward greater collaboration among scholars.

Related Articles

Jeong, Gyung‐Ho. 2016. “Electoral Rules and Bureaucratic Effectiveness.” Politics & Policy 44(6): 1089–115. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12184.

Jones, Kate, and Kerry, Jacobs. 2009. “Public Accounts Committees, New Public Management, and Institutionalism: A Case Study.” Politics & Policy 39(5): 1023–46. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2009.00209.x/abstract.

Pelizzo, Riccardo and Abel Kinyondo. 2014. “Public Accounts Committees in Eastern and Southern Africa: A Comparative Analysis.” Politics & Policy 42(1), 77–102. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12062.