bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiogenic shock in pregnancy
Authors: Greer Orene Y. O. , Anandanadesan Rathai , Shah Nishel M. , Price Susanna , Johnson Mark R.
Published: October 2023

Cardiac disease complicates 1%–4% of pregnancies globally, with a predominance in low and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Increasing maternal age, rates of obesity, cardiovascular comorbidities, pre‐eclampsia and gestational diabetes all contribute to acquired cardiovascular disease in pregnancy. Additionally, improved survival in congenital heart disease (CHD) has led to increasing numbers of women with CHD undergoing pregnancy. Implementation of individualised care plans formulated through pre‐conception counselling and based on national and international guidance have contributed to improved clinical outcomes. However, there remains a significant proportion of women of reproductive age with no apparent comorbidities or risk factors that develop heart disease during pregnancy, with no indication for pre‐conception counselling. The most extreme manifestation of cardiac disease is cardiogenic shock (CS), where the primary cardiac pathology results in inadequate cardiac output and hypoperfusion, and is associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Key to management is early recognition, intervention to treat any potentially reversible underlying pathology and supportive measures, up to and including mechanical circulatory support (MCS). In this narrative review we discuss recent developments in the classification of CS, and how these may be adapted to improve outcomes of pregnant women with, or at risk of developing, this potentially lethal condition.
Understanding teachers' responses to anxiety in children with autism at elementary schools and preschools
Authors: González Osvaldo Hernández , Spencer Contreras Rosario Elena , Luciano Juan Francisco Lagos , Sanz‐Cervera Pilar , Tárraga‐Mínguez Raúl
Published: October 2023

A total of 40% of children with ASD have clinical symptoms of anxiety. However, there is little research on how teachers respond to this type of behaviour in the classroom. This study aimed to compare teachers' responses towards the anxiety of students with ASD and to explore the relationship between these responses and their ASD awareness and emotional regulation strategies. A quantitative study was conducted using a non‐probabilistic sample of 139 Cuban teachers from primary schools and preschools. The results indicate that teachers responses towards the anxiety of students with ASD vary in relation to age, experience in inclusive schools, specific training on educating students with ASD and teaching stage, as well as the type of anxiety. The findings also revealed that emotional regulation and knowledge about ASD had a significant impact on teachers' responses. Practical implications and future lines of research are discussed.
Diversity climate: discrimination against skilled migrants in recruitment
Authors: Tran Thi Tuyet , Muenjohn Nuttawuth , Cameron Roslyn , Montague Alan , Fan Shea
Published: October 2023

Management literature suggests that diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds are crucial to innovation in modern organisations. However, in practice, distinctive backgrounds and experiences may be subject to discrimination, which can act as barriers to securing employment. This study involved 62 in‐depth interviews, 50 with skilled migrants (SMs) and 12 with recruiters, exploring discrimination in recruitment practices experienced by Vietnamese SM job seekers. The findings indicate that while racial discrimination was not considered a significant barrier to employment for Vietnamese SMs, local recruiters did not consider their overseas‐acquired work experience relevant. This excluded them from the recruitment pool. The study calls for more robust measures of inclusion considerations in recruitment and selection processes to be in place. Organisations need to develop a clear recruitment inclusion policy to balance the economic benefits candidates can bring to the organisation soon after joining and the long‐term benefits a diverse workforce creates.
Incidence and disease‐related risk factors for cerebrovascular accidents in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wan Jian , Wang Xuan , Zhang Yu Jie , Yin Yue , Wang Zhuo , Che Xiao , Chen Min , Liang Jie , Wu Kai Chun
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Risk of cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains inconclusive. In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we aimed to estimate the incidence of and identify the risk factors for CVA in patients with IBD.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched for articles published up to January 13, 2023 to identify those reported the incidence of CVA in IBD patients, along with the total person‐years or related data to calculate it. The main outcomes were the incidence of and risk factors for CVA in IBD.

Results

Based on the analysis of 10 studies, the pooled incidence of CVA in IBD patients was 2.74 per 1000 person‐years (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.83–4.10 person‐years; I2 = 99.2%), which was higher than that in the general population (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.21, 95% CI 1.09–1.34, P = 0.0002; I2 = 84.8%). Risk factors for CVA in IBD patients were age (significance in different definitions), ulcerative colitis (IRR 1.214, 95% CI 1.000–1.474, P = 0.0499; I2 = 81.9%), disease flares (IRR 1.699, 95% CI 1.359–2.122, P < 0.0001; I2 = 28.7%) and chronic activity (IRR 2.202, 95% CI 1.378–3.519, P = 0.0010; I2 = 83.0%).

Conclusions

The risk of CVA modestly increased in IBD patients. Both the traditional and IBD‐related risk factors should be managed to prevent CVA in these patients. Since the effects of risk factors were derived from pooled results of only 2–3 studies, further research is needed to confirm our results.
Long short‐term memory model for predicting groundwater level in Alabama
Authors: Robinson Victoria , Ershadnia Reza , Soltanian Mohamad Reza , Rasoulzadeh Mojdeh , Guthrie Gregory M.
Published: October 2023

Groundwater serves as a primary source of public‐water and agricultural supply in many areas of Alabama, in particular during drought periods. Long‐term climatic models for the southeastern United States indicate that the region will be subjected to more intense and more frequent precipitation events, with no overall change in the amount of precipitation, resulting in increased runoff and reduced aquifer recharge. Reliable prediction of groundwater levels would be beneficial to water resources decision makers and stakeholders especially for time‐sensitive decisions. This paper uses a compound application of continuous wavelet transform (CWT) analysis and long short‐term memory (LSTM) framework to address the major question with regards to groundwater level: “how long does it take for groundwater to respond to major precipitation events and what is the magnitude of the response?” CWT analysis is used to answer the “how long” part in this question, while the LSTM is used to answer the “what is the magnitude” part of the question. The insights from CWT analysis related to the short‐term and long‐term response in groundwater level were used to set the parameters of the LSTM model. The LSTM model uses daily groundwater levels, precipitation, and maximum/minimum temperatures as input data. The model was able to provide predictions within a 95% confidence interval of actual groundwater levels. The findings of this study suggest a workflow for groundwater level forecasting in the wells of Alabama given a minimum amount of easy‐to‐measure and widely available data.
Development and validation of a nomogram based on preoperative variables for predicting recurrence‐free survival in stage IA lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xu Jiaxi , Zeng Hui , Zhang Guochao , Li Renda , Yuan Zhenlong , Ren Jingyu , Huang Yufei , Ren Fangzhou , Zhang Hao , Fei Kailun , Feng Feiyue , Tan Fengwei
Published: October 2023

Background

This study aimed to establish a nomogram for predicting risk of recurrence and provide a model for decision‐making between lobectomy and sublobar resection in patients with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with stage IA lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) between December 2010 and October 2018 from Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences were included. Patients were randomly assigned to training and validation cohorts, accounting for 70% and 30% of the total cases, respectively. We collected laboratory variables before surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed in the training cohort to identify variables significantly associated with recurrence‐free survival (RFS) which were subsequently used to construct a nomogram. Validation was conducted in both cohorts. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the optional cutoff values of the scores calculated from the nomogram. Patients were then divided into low‐ and high‐risk groups. Survival was performed to determine if the nomogram could guide the operation method.

Results

A total of 543 patients were included in this study. Gender, albumin level, carcinoembryonic antigen level and cytokeratin‐19‐fragment level were included in the nomogram. In both cohorts, the nomogram stratified the patients into high‐ and low‐risk groups in terms of RFS. In particular, there was a significant difference in RFS between lobectomy and sublobar resection in the high‐risk group.

Conclusions

Gender, albumin level, carcinoembryonic antigen level and cytokeratin‐19‐fragment level are valuable markers in predicting recurrence and can guide surgical practice in patients with stage IA LUAD.
Finland: Political Developments and Data in 2022
Authors: PALONEN EMILIA
Published: October 2023

In 2022, Finland applied for NATO membership as a reaction to Russia's attack on Ukraine with full parliamentary support. The Marin government pushed through reforms, which in the autumn got contested. Frictions emerged within the government in anticipation of the general election in 2023. In January 2022, the first regional elections were held, with victory to the opposition party National Coalition. One of the traditional ruling parties, Centre, demonstrated its appeal, despite falling support nationwide. PM Sanna Marin's Social Democrats became second. Finland received much attention abroad due to the war and NATO membership application, but PM Marin's party videos also made headlines worldwide. In Finnish politics and society, attention was shifted overnight from the COVID‐19 pandemic to the war in Ukraine and what the effects of the drastically changing relations to the neighbouring Russia would be.
Healthcare professionals' experiences and perceptions of artificial intelligence in regional and rural health districts in Australia
Authors: Shinners Lucy , Aggar Christina , Stephens Alexandre , Grace Sandra
Published: October 2023

Introduction

A greater understanding of Australian healthcare professionals' perceptions of artificial intelligence (AI) is needed to identify the challenges ahead as this new technology finds its way into healthcare delivery.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify healthcare professionals' perceptions of AI, their understanding of this technology, their education needs and barriers they perceived to its implementation.

Design

Healthcare professionals in eight local health districts in New South Wales Australia were surveyed using the Shinners Artificial Intelligence Perception (SHAIP) tool.

Findings

The study surveyed 176 participants from regional (59.5%), rural (36.4%) and metropolitan (4.0%) healthcare districts in Australia. Only 27% of all participants stated they are currently using AI in the delivery of care. The study found that Age, Discipline, Use of AI and Desire for Education had a significant effect on perceptions of AI, and that overall healthcare professionals believe AI will impact their role and they do not feel prepared for its use. The study showed that understanding of AI is varied and workforce knowledge is seen as the greatest barrier to implementation. More than 75% of healthcare professionals desire education about AI, its application and ethical implications to the delivery of care.

Conclusion

The development of education is needed urgently to prepare healthcare professionals for the implementation of AI.
Barriers and enablers to implementation of COVID‐19 vaccine programs in a rural and regional Queensland: A provider perspective
Authors: Oversby Shannen , Hamilton Elizabeth M. , Ratsch Angela , Kitchener Scott
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Vaccines formed the core of Australia's National COVID‐19 Plan in combination with other public health measures. Vaccine rates varied geographically, and lower uptake was seen in some regional and remote areas.

Objective

Explore barriers and enablers to implementing COVID‐19 vaccine programs and recommendations for improvement from a vaccine provider perspective in rural and regional Queensland (QLD).

Design

Participants included eleven healthcare personnel (HCP) from rural (45%) and regional (55%) settings in the Wide Bay region, QLD, Australia. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted to identify barriers and enabling factors HCP experienced implementing COVID‐19 programs, in addition to their recommendations to optimise ongoing implementation of vaccine programs. Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis of interview transcripts was performed, and over‐arching themes were identified.

Findings

Four barrier themes were identified: 1. operational barriers, 2. communication issues, 3. financial constraints, and 4. leadership and coordination. Four enabler themes were also identified: 1. adaptability; 2. prior experience and knowledge; 3. collaboration and teamwork; and 4. community engagement. Recommendations for optimising ongoing vaccine rollout included reducing the administrative burden on providers, increasing involvement of primary care and the private sector in planning and decision making, improving communication methods, reviewing financial remuneration for private providers, and decentralising decision‐making.

Discussion

There were multiple barriers and enablers to implementation of COVID‐19 programs experienced by rural and regional HCP in the Wide Bay region of QLD which were consistent with existing literature.

Conclusion

A range of actionable recommendations were identified that could optimise the COVID‐19 vaccine program and future vaccine programs in rural and regional areas.
Prolonged shedding of viable SARS‐CoV‐2 in immunocompromised patients with haematological malignancies: A prospective study
Authors: Ichikawa Takaya , Tamura Tomokazu , Takahata Mutsumi , Ishio Takashi , Ibata Makoto , Kasahara Ikumi , Minauchi Koichiro , Yamamoto Satoshi , Teshima Takanori , Fukuhara Takasuke
Published: October 2023

Prolonged SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in immunocompromised individuals has been scattered, but the details remain unclear. We conducted a prospective study with 26 COVID‐19 patients with haematological malignancies to determine viral shedding kinetics and characteristics. We obtained nasopharyngeal swabs from the patients 21–28 days post‐onset for a PCR test and performed virus isolation from the PCR‐positive samples. A viable virus was detected in five patients (19.2%), all of whom had malignant lymphoma. Those patients had significantly lower CD4+ T‐cell counts than the PCR‐negative patients. A comparison of previous chemotherapy showed that anti‐CD20 antibodies and bendamustine may be risk factors for prolonged viral shedding.
The optimal specific or ad valorem tax when the other tax is exogenously imposed in a free‐entry Cournot oligopoly market
Authors: Hamada Kojun , Ohkawa Takao , Okamura Makoto
Published: October 2023

This study examines how optimal specific or ad valorem taxation in a free‐entry Cournot oligopoly market is affected by a change in another exogenously given tax. We derive the sufficient conditions for the uniqueness of the optimal tax rate, which are related to the concavity of the marginal revenue and the log‐concavity of the first derivative of the average cost function. By guaranteeing the uniqueness, we can conduct a comparative statics analysis on the optimal tax rate. We show that a marginal increase in another tax can paradoxically reduce prices and decrease the optimal tax rate.
Forest resistance to drought in a humid tropical dipterocarp forest in the Western Ghats of India
Authors: Machado Siddarth , Valle Denis , Toh Kok Ben , Johnson Daniel J.
Published: October 2023

Droughts are linked to tree die‐offs in the biodiverse humid tropics. We assessed drought response of a Dipterocarp Forest and found a marginal decrease in tree survival, indicating drought resistance. Understory and emergent species were sensitive to drought. Urgent focus is needed to understand drought impacts and plant physiological responses in South Asian forests.
Identification of formononetin as the active compound of CR‐SR in hepatocellular carcinoma treatment: An integrated approach combining network pharmacology and weighted gene co‐expression networks
Authors: Li Chun , Xie Yuxin , Hu Shaoyu , Yu Hong , Xu Yunke , Shen Hongping , Yuan Yuan , Gu Long , Pu Bangming
Published: October 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a life‐threatening disease for which there is no cure. Traditional Chinese medicine is a treasure trove of Medicinals that has been used for thousands of years. In China, the traditional herb pair, Curcumae Rhizoma and Sparganii Rhizoma (CR‐SR) represent a classic herbal combination used for the treatment of HCC. However, the drug targets and pharmacological mechanism of action of CR‐SR in the treatment of HCC are unclear. To address this, we screened the active components and drug targets of CR‐SR from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database and a high‐throughput experiment‐ and reference‐guided database of traditional Chinese medicines (HERB database). Combined with the weighted co‐expression network analysis of dataset GSE76427, we constructed an active component‐target‐disease regulatory network. It was found that CR‐SR's active components for HCC treatment included trans‐gondoic acid, beta‐sitosterol, stigmasterol, hederagenin, and formononetin. These compounds specifically targeted the genes Estrogen Receptor 1 (ESR1), Cyclin A2 (CCNA2), Checkpoint Kinase 1 (CHEK1), and Nuclear Receptor Coactivator 2 (NCOA2). ESR1, CCNA2, and CHEK1 genes showed significant differences in survival prognosis, expression levels, and statistical significance during the pathological stage. Moreover, their high affinity for formononetin was determined through molecular docking analysis. Cell assays and high‐throughput sequencing were performed to reveal that the inhibitory effect of formononetin on HepG2 cell proliferation was related to hepatocyte metabolism and cell cycle regulation‐related pathways. This study provides insights into potential HCC treatments.
Occupational exposure to epoxy components and risk of dermatitis: A registry‐based follow‐up study of the wind turbine industry
Authors: Christiansen Alexandra Golabek , Kinnerup Martin Byskov , Carstensen Ole , Sommerlund Mette , Clausen Per Axel , Bønløkke Jakob Hjort , Schlünssen Vivi , Isaksson Marléne , Schmidt Sigrun Alba Johannesdottir , Kolstad Henrik Albert
Published: October 2023

Background

Allergic contact allergy and dermatitis are frequently reported among epoxy‐exposed workers.

Objectives

To determine the risk of dermatitis associated with epoxy exposure.

Methods

We followed 825 epoxy‐exposed and 1091 non‐exposed blue‐collar workers, and 493 white‐collar workers of a Danish wind turbine blade factory during 2017–2022 with linked data from national health registers on diagnoses, patch testing, or fillings of prescriptions for topical corticosteroids. Incidence rate ratios of dermatitis or a first‐time topical corticosteroid prescription were estimated with Poisson regression using non‐exposed blue‐collar workers as reference. We similarly estimated incidence rate ratios for the duration of epoxy exposure and current epoxy exposure.

Results

Epoxy‐exposed blue‐collar workers showed a dermatitis incidence rate of 2.1 per 100 000 person days, a two‐fold increased risk of dermatitis and a 20% increased risk of filling a prescription for topical corticosteroids. Incidence rate ratios were higher during early exposure and declined with further exposure for both outcomes. White‐collar workers had generally lower risks.

Conclusion

We observed an increased risk of dermatitis following epoxy exposure confirming previous case reports and cross‐sectional studies emphasizing the need for intensified focus on preventive efforts for this group of workers.
An international survey exploring the management of pilonidal disease
Authors: Gallo Gaetano , Goglia Marta , Senapati Asha , Pata Francesco , Basso Luigi , Grossi Ugo ,   2022 European Society of Coloproctology (ESCP) collaborating group
Published: October 2023

Aim

Pilonidal disease (PD) is a common debilitating condition frequently seen in surgical practice. Several available treatments carry different benefit/risk balances. The aim of this study was to snapshot the current management of PD across European countries.

Method

Members affiliated to the European Society of Coloproctology were invited to join the survey. An invitation was extended to others via social media. The predictive power of respondents' and hospitals' demographics on the change of therapeutic approach was explored.

Results

Respondents (n = 452) were mostly men (77%), aged 26–60 years, practising in both academic and public hospitals and with fair distribution between colorectal (51%) and general (48%) surgeons. A total of 331 (73%) respondents recommended surgery at first presentation of the disease. Up to 80% of them recommended antibiotic therapy and 95% did not use any classification of PD. A primary closure technique was the preferred procedure (29%), followed by open technique (22%), flap creation (7%), sinusectomy (7%) and marsupialization (7%). Approximately 27% of subjects would choose the same surgical technique even after a failure. Almost half (46%) perform surgery as office based. A conservative approach was negatively associated with acutely presenting PD (p < 0.001). Respondents who were not considering tailored surgery based on patient presentation tended to change their approach in the case of a failed procedure.

Conclusion

With the caveat of a heterogeneous number of respondents across countries, the results of our snapshot survey may inform the development of future guidelines.
A novel method to assess copy number variations in melanocytic neoplasms: Droplet digital PCR for precise quantitation of MYC and MYB genes
Authors: Ramos‐Rodriguez Alvaro J. , McFadden Jason R. , Momtahen Shabnam , LeBlanc Robert E. , Yan Shaofeng , Chaudhari Advaita S. , Cloutier Jeffrey M. , Stevanovic Mirjana , Barney Rachael , Syku Marie , Lozano‐Franco Mario , Hughes Edward , Sriharan Aravindhan
Published: October 2023

Introduction

While most melanocytic neoplasms can be classified as either benign or malignant by histopathology alone, ancillary molecular diagnostic tests can be necessary to establish the correct diagnosis in challenging cases. Currently, the detection of copy number variations (CNVs) by fluorescence in situ hybridization and chromosomal microarray (CMA) are the most popular methods, but remain expensive and inaccessible. We aim to develop a relatively inexpensive, fast, and accessible molecular assay to detect CNVs relevant to melanoma using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) technology.

Methods

In this proof‐of‐concept study, we evaluated CNVs in MYC and MYB genes from 73 cases of benign nevi, borderline melanocytic lesions, and primary and metastatic melanoma at our institution from 2015 to 2022. A multiplexed ddPCR assay and CMA were performed on each sample, and the results were compared.

Results

Concordance analysis of ddPCR with CMA for quantification of MYC and MYB CNVs revealed a sensitivity and specificity of 89% and 86% for MYC and 83% and 74% for MYB, respectively.

Conclusion

We demonstrate the first use of a multiplexed ddPCR assay to identify CNVs in melanocytic neoplasms. With further improvement and validation, ddPCR may represent a low‐cost and rapid tool to aid in the diagnosis of histopathologically ambiguous melanocytic tumors.
Review of the impact of the International System for Serous Fluid Cytopathology
Authors: Mikou Panagiota , Pergaris Alexandros , Engels Marianne , Chandra Ashish
Published: October 2023

The International System for Reporting Serous Fluid Cytology (TIS) has been proposed by an expert working team composed of the International Academy of Cytology and the American Society of Cytopathology, following an international survey. Since its introduction, the TIS has gained worldwide acceptance, and this review aims to assess its global impact. A literature search revealed 25 studies which have presented data on the impact of the TIS. Most of them provide data, including risk of malignancy (ROM) for each diagnostic category, separately for pleural, peritoneal and pericardial effusions, while a few do not separate them. A few studies focus on specific diagnoses like mesothelioma on specific types of fluids or more specific issues like the optimal fluid volume for cytology or interobserver variability. A synopsis of the data from the literature search is presented in four tables. The ROM assessment is discussed, as well as interobserver variability and the use of ancillary diagnostic immunochemistry. In conclusion, our review of the published data suggests that the TIS is a valid classification scheme that has been widely accepted by pathologists globally, is highly reproducible and makes a valuable contribution to clinical therapeutic management.
Abolishing β‐arrestin recruitment is necessary for the full metabolic benefits of G protein‐biased glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists
Authors: Hinds Charlotte E. , Peace Ellie , Chen Shiqian , Davies Iona , El Eid Liliane , Tomas Alejandra , Tan Tricia , Minnion James , Jones Ben , Bloom Stephen R.
Published: October 2023

Aim

Earlier studies have shown that peptide glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1R) agonists with reduced β‐arrestin recruitment show enhanced anti‐hyperglycaemic efficacy through avoidance of GLP‐1R desensitization. However, the ligand modifications needed to decrease β‐arrestin recruitment usually also reduces GLP‐1R affinity, therefore higher doses are needed. Here we aimed to develop new, long‐acting, G protein‐biased GLP‐1R agonists with acute signalling potency comparable with semaglutide, to provide insights into specific experimental and therapeutic scenarios.

Materials and Methods

New GLP‐1R agonist peptides were assessed using a variety of in vitro and in vivo assays.

Results

First, we show that very substantial reductions in β‐arrestin recruitment efficacy are required to realize fully the benefits of GLP‐1R agonism on blood glucose lowering in mice, with more moderate reductions being less effective. Secondly, our lead compound (SRB107) performs substantially better than semaglutide for effects on blood glucose and weight loss, which may be jointly attributable to its biased agonist action and protracted pharmacokinetics. Thirdly, we show that biased agonist‐specific GLP‐1R internalization profiles occur at clinically relevant pharmacological concentrations. Finally, we show that SRB107 cAMP signalling is differentially modulated by single and double GLP1R coding variants seen in human populations, with implications for GLP‐1R agonist pharmacogenomics.

Conclusions

Completely abolishing β‐arrestin recruitment improves the anti‐hyperglycaemic effects of GLP‐1R agonists in mice.
Association between exposure to air pollution and blood lipids in the general population of Spain
Authors: Valdés Sergio , Doulatram‐Gamgaram Viyey , Maldonado‐Araque Cristina , García‐Escobar Eva , García‐Serrano Sara , Oualla‐Bachiri Wasima , García‐Vivanco Marta , Garrido Juan Luis , Gil Victoria , Martín‐Llorente Fernando , Calle‐Pascual Alfonso , Castaño Luis , Delgado Elías , Menéndez Edelmiro , Franch‐Nadal Josep , Gaztambide Sonia , Girbés Joan , Chaves F. Javier , Galán‐García José L. , Aguilera‐Venegas Gabriel , Vallvé Joan Carles , Amigó Núria , Guardiola Montse , Ribalta Josep , Rojo‐Martínez Gemma
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

We aimed to assess the associations of exposure to air pollutants and standard and advanced lipoprotein measures, in a nationwide sample representative of the adult population of Spain.

Methods

We included 4647 adults (>18 years), participants in the national, cross‐sectional, population‐based di@bet.es study, conducted in 2008–2010. Standard lipid measurements were analysed on an Architect C8000 Analyzer (Abbott Laboratories SA). Lipoprotein analysis was made by an advanced 1H‐NMR lipoprotein test (Liposcale®). Participants were assigned air pollution concentrations for particulate matter <10 μm (PM10), <2.5 μm (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), corresponding to the health examination year, obtained by modelling combined with measurements taken at air quality stations (CHIMERE chemistry‐transport model).

Results

In multivariate linear regression models, each IQR increase in PM10, PM2.5 and NO2 was associated with 3.3%, 3.3% and 3% lower levels of HDL‐c and 1.3%, 1.4% and 1.1% lower HDL particle (HDL‐p) concentrations (p < .001 for all associations). In multivariate logistic regression, there was a significant association between PM10, PM2.5 and NO2 concentrations and the odds of presenting low HDL‐c (<40 mg/dL), low HDL‐p (<p25) and higher LDL particle (LDL‐p) concentrations (≥p75). In subgroup analyses there were stronger associations between PM10 and NO2 and low HDL‐p in men (p for interaction .008 and .034), and between NO2 and low HDL‐p in individuals with obesity (p for interaction .015).

Conclusions

Our study shows an association between the exposure to air pollutants and blood lipids in the general population of Spain, suggesting a link to atherosclerosis.
Aggressiveness of Fusarium oxysporum and F. verticillioides isolates on stone and scots pine under greenhouse conditions
Authors: Olaizola Jaime , Pajares Juan A. , Gordon Thomas R. , Diez Julio J.
Published: October 2023

Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Stone pine (Pinus pinea) are two important species used in re‐forestation that are subject to damage by damping‐off fungi in forest nurseries. Twenty‐two isolates of Fusarium oxysporum and F. verticillioides from diseased seedlings of eight different hosts were tested for aggressiveness on seeds and seedlings of both pine species, including the effects on seedling emergence and mortality. Scots pine was more susceptible to damping‐off than Stone pine, as indicated both by reduced seedling emergence and elevated seedling mortality. The impact of F. oxysporum and F. verticillioides on seeds and seedlings did not differ significantly for either pine species. Our findings support previous studies that found that these are damping‐off pathogens on the studied pines. Whereas most isolates proved to be pathogenic, some isolates of both Fusarium species showed to be non‐pathogenic.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi benefit plants in response to major global change factors
Authors: Tang Bo , Man Jing , Lehmann Anika , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: October 2023

Land plants play a key role in global carbon cycling, but the potential role of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the responses of a wide range of plant species to global change factors (GCFs) remains limited. Based on 1100 paired observations from 181 plant species, we conducted a meta‐analysis to test the role of AMF in plant responses to four GCFs: drought, warming, nitrogen (N) addition and elevated CO2. We show that AMF significantly ameliorate the negative effects of drought on plant performance. The GCFs N addition and elevated CO2 significantly enhance the performance of AM plants but not of non‐inoculated plants. AM plants show better performance than their non‐inoculated counterparts under warming, although neither of them showed a significant response to this GCF. These results suggest that AMF benefit plants in response to GCFs. Our study highlights the importance of AMF in enhancing plant performance under ongoing global change.
Migratory swans individually adjust their autumn migration and winter range to a warming climate
Authors: Linssen Hans , van Loon E. Emiel , Shamoun‐Baranes Judy Z. , Nuijten Rascha J. M. , Nolet Bart A.
Published: October 2023

In response to climate warming, migratory animals can alter their migration so that different events in the annual cycle are better aligned in space and time with suitable environmental conditions. Although such responses have been studied extensively during spring migration and the breeding season, much less is known about the influence of temperature on movements throughout autumn migration and how those movements result in a winter range and shifts therein. We use multi‐year GPS tracking data to quantify how daily autumn movement and annual winter distance from the breeding grounds are related to temperature in the Western Palearctic Bewick's swan, a long‐lived migratory waterbird whose winter range has shifted more than 350 km closer to the breeding grounds since 1970 due to individuals increasingly ‘short‐stopping’ their autumn migration. We show that the migratory movement of swans is driven by lower temperatures throughout the autumn season, with individuals during late autumn moving only substantially when temperatures drop below freezing. As a result, there is large flexibility in their annual winter distance as a response to winter temperature. On average, individuals overwinter 118 km closer to the breeding grounds per 1°C increase in mean December–January temperature. Given the observed temperature increase in the Bewick's swan winter range during the last decades, our results imply that the observed range shift is for a substantial part driven by individual responses to a warming climate. We thus present an example of individual flexibility towards climatic conditions driving the range shift of a migratory species. Our study adds to the understanding of the processes that shape autumn migration decisions, winter ranges and shifts therein, which is crucial to be able to predict how climate change may impact these processes in the future.
Asymmetric response of aboveground and belowground temporal stability to nitrogen and phosphorus addition in a Tibetan alpine grassland
Authors: Wang Yonghui , Wang Chao , Ren Fei , Jing Xin , Ma Wenhong , He Jin‐Sheng , Jiang Lin
Published: October 2023

Anthropogenic eutrophication is known to impair the stability of aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP), but its effects on the stability of belowground (BNPP) and total (TNPP) net primary productivity remain poorly understood. Based on a nitrogen and phosphorus addition experiment in a Tibetan alpine grassland, we show that nitrogen addition had little impact on the temporal stability of ANPP, BNPP, and TNPP, whereas phosphorus addition reduced the temporal stability of BNPP and TNPP, but not ANPP. Significant interactive effects of nitrogen and phosphorus addition were observed on the stability of ANPP because of the opposite phosphorus effects under ambient and enriched nitrogen conditions. We found that the stability of TNPP was primarily driven by that of BNPP rather than that of ANPP. The responses of BNPP stability cannot be predicted by those of ANPP stability, as the variations in responses of ANPP and BNPP to enriched nutrient, with ANPP increased while BNPP remained unaffected, resulted in asymmetric responses in their stability. The dynamics of grasses, the most abundant plant functional group, instead of community species diversity, largely contributed to the ANPP stability. Under the enriched nutrient condition, the synchronization of grasses reduced the grass stability, while the latter had a significant but weak negative impact on the BNPP stability. These findings challenge the prevalent view that species diversity regulates the responses of ecosystem stability to nutrient enrichment. Our findings also suggest that the ecological consequences of nutrient enrichment on ecosystem stability cannot be accurately predicted from the responses of aboveground components and highlight the need for a better understanding of the belowground ecosystem dynamics.
Asymmetric impacts of surface thaw onset change on seasonal vegetation growth in Arctic permafrost
Authors: Chen Xing , Jeong Sujong
Published: October 2023

Aim

Changes in surface thaw onset in Arctic permafrost can regulate terrestrial ecosystem dynamics. Permafrost surface thaw onset has advanced significantly because of strong Arctic warming. However, surface thaw onset change effects on vegetation during the different growing season stages remain unclear.

Location

Arctic and subarctic permafrost region.

Time Period

1982–2016.

Major Taxa Studied

Arctic vegetation.

Methods

This study investigated surface thaw onset change effects on vegetation growth in the Arctic permafrost region by analysing the relationships between surface thaw onset dates and vegetation indices obtained via satellite remote sensing from 1982 to 2016.

Results

The leaf area index (LAI) from April to June was negatively correlated (−0.16 area‐averaged partial correlation coefficient) with surface‐thawed dates in over 78.6% of the Arctic permafrost region, and the LAI from August to October was positively correlated (0.17 area‐averaged partial correlation coefficient) with surface‐thawed dates in over 79.9% of the Arctic permafrost region. These distinct relationships suggest that earlier thaw onset may have a positive effect on vegetation growth during the early stage of the growing season. However, earlier thaw onset can limit vegetation growth during the late stage of the growing season. The different relationships between surface thaw onset and LAI can be explained by moisture availability. This difference occurred because 67.3% of the Arctic permafrost region was more constrained by temperature during the early stage of the growing season, therefore, the earlier thaw onset alleviated this temperature constraint and benefited vegetation growth. During the late stage of the growing season, 47.7% of the Arctic permafrost region was more constrained by moisture.

Main Conclusions

Our results suggest that surface thaw onset change effects on vegetation vary by period, and this difference requires careful consideration when predicting ecosystem changes in permafrost regions.
A Tapestry of Black Anthropology of Freedom: Insights from James H. Cone and Frantz Fanon
Authors: Aihiokhai SimonMary Asese
Published: October 2023

Abstract: What is freedom without the ability to wonder and imagine new ways of being in the world? This question is at the heart of the works and contributions of Frantz Fanon and James H. Cone in their responses to the colonialities operating in the Black world, and the appropriate response to such colonialities through the medium of strategic alliances and a theological imagination of what it means to be human that is oriented towards blackness itself. However, since blackness is a production of white gaze, it is intended to embody pathologies of dehumanisation. Fanon and Cone do not shy away from shedding light on these pathologies. However, rather than slipping into the realm of nihilism, a pneumatological turn is articulated that allows for blackness to be a medium of encountering the gift of authentic humanity that is in solidarity with God's epiphany of life in the world. Fanon's and Cone's centring of rebellion as the pathway for an embrace of an anthropology of freedom is retrieved as a way of understanding the link between hope and a rich reading of anthropology of freedom that blackness evokes.
One‐year outcome of selective caries removal versus pulpotomy treatment of deep caries: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chua S. K. X. , Sim Y. F. , Wang W. C. , Mok B. Y. Y. , Yu V. S. H.
Published: October 2023

Aim

This study aimed to compare the outcome of SCR and Pulpotomy in teeth with deep caries extending at least 75% into dentine.

Methodology

This two‐armed, parallel‐group, randomized, superiority trial included vital mature permanent teeth with deep primary or secondary caries diagnosed radiographically as being at least 75% into the thickness of dentine, without clinical signs of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis or radiographic evidence of a periapical lesion. Carious teeth were blindly allocated to receive either SCR or Pulpotomy using computer‐generated randomized patient codes concealed in opaque envelopes. All teeth were reviewed clinically and radiographically at 6 months and 1 year post‐treatment. Using a significance level of p < .05, the log rank test and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to compare the outcome of SCR and Pulpotomy and to identify potential prognostic factors, respectively.

Results

In all, 58 teeth in the SCR group and 55 teeth in the pulpotomy group completed treatment, after excluding 6 teeth because they did not complete the allocated treatment and another due to severe periodontal disease. At one year, 57/58 (98.3%) teeth from the SCR group and 48/55 (87.3%) teeth from the Pulpotomy group were available for analysis. One tooth in the Pulpotomy group (2.1%) and eight teeth in the SCR group (14.0%) required the further intervention of root canal treatment (p < .05). There were no other significant prognostic factors for survival. Overall, 91.4% of teeth treated with either SCR or Pulpotomy survived without requiring further intervention over a period of one year. No other adverse events occurred over the review period.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this study, Pulpotomy fares better than SCR in preserving the remaining pulp and periapical health. As a treatment modality, Pulpotomy carries greater cost outlay to patient and takes a longer time to complete treatment than SCR. Long‐term follow‐up is needed to study the pulpal and restorative outcomes of Pulpotomy and SCR.
Consumer well‐being—A systematic literature review and research agenda usingTCCMframework
Authors: Bhardwaj Priya , Kalro Arti D.
Published: October 2023

Consumer well‐being (CWB) refers to the cognitive and emotional reactions of consumers in response to their consumption experiences. It encompasses three elements: consumer satisfaction, positive emotions and perceived quality of life. In the past few years, there has been significant research growth in the field of CWB. However, a lack of effort is observed in reviewing this emerging and evolving field of research. This review utilises the Theory–Context–Construct–Methods (TCCM) framework given by Paul and Rosado‐Serrano (2019) (International Marketing Review,36(6), 830–858), to delve into the prominent theories, contexts (i.e., countries and industries), characteristics (major factors and variables) and methods (i.e., research designs and analysis) used in CWB research spanning over the past 24 years (1998–2022). Through a systematic analysis and synthesis of 142 articles, an overview of this research field is provided, establishing a path for future agenda within the TCCM framework. This review reveals a prevalence of single‐theory approaches, with studies primarily focusing on theories such as the self‐determination theory and the attribution theory. Furthermore, CWB research demonstrates a stronger inclination towards examining the services industry context compared to other industries covered in the literature. Additionally, the review emphasises the need for further research on countries with emerging economies. Detailed future research directions are presented.
Generation Z's perceptions of a good life beyond consumerism: Insights from the United States and Finland
Authors: Grénman Miia , Hakala Ulla , Mueller Barbara , Uusitalo Outi
Published: October 2023

This paper examines Generation Z consumers' perceptions of a good life beyond consumerism and how their perceptions and practices have evolved during crises and the cultural context in which they live. We present a unique theoretical and empirical cross‐cultural investigation which focuses on the ecological crisis and COVID‐19 pandemic, and the changes they have caused to Gen Zs' daily lives in the United States (California) and Finland. Two large qualitative data sets were collected through focus group interviews and open‐ and closed‐ended surveys before and during COVID‐19 and analyzed via the PERMA framework. Findings revealed that Gen Zs' pathways that lead to a good life include: healthy behaviors and balance; positive and meaningful relationships; happiness and positivity; meaningful things; productivity and goals; and daily routines. Findings also indicated that since COVID‐19, Gen Zs are increasingly shifting toward virtuous behaviors and eudaimonic‐oriented life, in which moderation, meaningfulness, and self‐realization play key roles. Gen Zs are characterized as a global consumer cohort and a driver of change for a sustainable future, thus understanding how these future professionals, leaders, and mainstream consumers perceive a good life provides theoretical and practical insights into how to provide ecologically sustainable well‐being for nature and future generations.
Optimised extraction of phospholipids and omega‐3 fatty acids from Patagonian squid waste with low‐toxicity solvents
Authors: Rodríguez Alicia , Trigo Marcos , Aubourg Santiago P. , Medina Isabel
Published: October 2023

Extracting conditions of lipid compounds (phospholipids, PLs; ω3 fatty acids, FAs) from Patagonian squid (Doriteuthis gahi) waste were optimised by employment of a Simplex‐Lattice design. For it, different concentrations of low‐toxicity solvents (ethanol, acetone and ethyl acetate; single and binary and ternary mixtures) were tested. As a result, the multiple regressionanovaproved that the quadratic model was significant (P < 0.05) for PL and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) contents and for total polyunsaturated/total saturated and total ω3/total ω6 FA ratios. Thus, theanovaapplication of the fitting model led to the following optimised values for such parameters: 477.42 g kg−1lipids, 21.48 g 100 g−1total FAs, 3.48 and 13.03, respectively. The combination of process variable levels which maximised the desirability function (0.49 value) was ethanol/ethyl acetate (0.50:0.50, v/v) and led to values of 412.50 (g kg−1lipids), 19.05 (g 100 g−1total FAs), 2.59 and 12.86, respectively, for the above‐mentioned lipid parameters. Results were compared to those obtained by the conventional chloroform/methanol procedure. By including an advanced mathematical design, a novel eco‐friendly strategy based on the employment of low‐toxicity solvents is proposed for the extraction from a marine waste substrate of highly valuable lipid compounds with healthy and nutritional properties.
Familial Mediterranean fever and microRNAs
Authors: Bildirici Aslihan Esra
Published: October 2023

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an inherited disorder caused by the gain of function mutations in MEFV (MEditerranean FeVer) gene loci. FMF affects more than 100,000 people worldwide and generally seen in the eastern Mediterranean region and causes the lifelong diseases which have a significant effect on the patient's life quality and health systems. The identification of low penetrant or heterozygous MEFV gene mutations in clinically diagnosed FMF patients was considered that epigenetic or environmental factors may display a role in FMF pathogenesis. Epigenetics might be defined as heritable changes that affect gene expression without any changes in the genome. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are the main group of small noncoding RNAs, and an important element of epigenetic mechanisms and their discoveries revolutionized our knowledge about biological processes, such as malignant, infectious and autoimmune mechanisms, and contributed to the development of the epigenetic areas. In this review, the studies focusing on the roles of miRNAs in FMF pathogenesis in the last decades were examined and the importance of miRNAs as therapeutic agents which are promising for diagnosis and treatment was discussed.