bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work–family conflict and organizational outcomes: moderating effect of intrinsic motivation among women in health care sector of Pakistan
Authors: Jamshed Hira , Noor Sadaf , Ali Hafiz Yasir , Arshad Hafiz Muhammad , Asrar-ul-Haq Muhammad
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study analyses the organizational consequences of work–family conflict (WFC) among female nurses in health care sector. Moreover, this study focuses on the moderating effect of intrinsic motivation on the association between WFC dimensions with different organizational outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from 347 female nurses working in health care sector at Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Multan and Bahawalpur regions of Pakistan, using random sampling technique. Regression analysis is used to test the hypotheses of this study.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that WFC conflict lowers job satisfaction, affective commitment and organizational citizenship behaviour. Contrary, WFC reduces job satisfaction, affective commitment and organizational citizenship behaviour and increases turnover intentions among female nurses. Moreover, intrinsic motivation moderates the association between WFC and certain organizational outcomes.

Originality/value

The study offers valuable insights for female nurses at health care sector about WFC and finally leads to theoretical contributions and practical implications for the healthcare sector of Pakistan.
Acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase modulates lipogenesis and sugar homeostasis in Blattella germanica
Authors: Pei Xiaojin , Bai Tiantian , Luo Yuan , Zhang Zhanfeng , Li Sheng , Fan Yongliang , Liu Tong‐Xian
Published: July 2023

Lipid and sugar homeostasis is critical for insect development and survival. In this study, we characterized an acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase gene in Blattella germanica (BgACC) that is involved in both lipogenesis and sugar homeostasis. We found that BgACC was dominantly expressed in the fat body and integument, and was significantly upregulated after molting. Knockdown of BgACC in 5th‐instar nymphs did not affect their normal molting to the next nymphal stage, but it caused a lethal phenotype during adult emergence. BgACC‐RNA interference (RNAi) significantly downregulated total free fatty acid (FFA) and triacylglycerol (TAG) levels, and also caused a significant decrease of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs). Repression of BgACC in adult females affected the development of oocytes and resulted in sterile females, but BgACC‐RNAi did not affect the reproductive ability of males. Interestingly, knockdown of BgACC also changed the expression of insulin‐like peptide genes (BgILPs), which mimicked a physiological state of high sugar uptake. In addition, BgACC was upregulated when B. germanica were fed on a high sucrose diet, and repression of BgACC upregulated the expression of the glycogen synthase gene (BgGlyS). Moreover, BgACC‐RNAi increased the circulating sugar levels and glycogen storage, and a longevity assay suggested that BgACC was important for the survival of B. germanica under conditions of high sucrose uptake. Our results confirm that BgACC is involved in multiple lipid biogenesis and sugar homeostasis processes, which further modulates insect reproduction and sugar tolerance. This study benefits our understanding of the crosstalk between lipid and sugar metabolism.
Neo‐tropical felid activity patterns in relation to potential prey and intraguild competitors in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico
Authors: Argudín‐Violante Cristina , Middleton Owen S. , Slater Kathy Y. , Dominguez‐Bonilla Esteban , Doncaster C. Patrick
Published: July 2023

Predator behaviors influence, and are influenced by, prey and competitor behaviors. Jaguars (Panthera onca), pumas (Puma concolor), and ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) coexist throughout their geographic range as the three largest predators in a multi‐predator community across diverse environments. This study tested for non‐random segregation and overlap in the activity patterns of these felids and their shared prey in the southern buffer zone of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, in southern Mexico, using camera traps during February to August 2019. We detected little temporal segregation between the nocturnal activities of jaguars, pumas, and ocelots, although pumas were more active closer to dawn. Jaguars had low activity overlap with species likely to be common prey, whereas ocelots had high overlap with their potential prey. Pumas displayed finer‐scale similarities in activity with species likely to be common prey. In an understudied area of conservation importance, this study shows that temporal segregation is an unlikely mechanism of coexistence. Further research should incorporate spatio‐temporal avoidance and dietary differences to improve our understanding of the mechanisms that drive coexistence between generalist species in a diverse assemblage of threatened felids.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Relations between self‐regulation and behavioral adjustment in Chinese American immigrant children during early elementary school years
Authors: Gys Christopher L. , Haft Stephanie L. , Zhou Qing
Published: July 2023

The present study examined associations between sociocultural factors and self‐regulation (parent‐report, teacher‐report, laboratory tasks), and prospective relations between self‐regulation and behavioral adjustment (parent‐, teacher‐, child‐report) in a socioeconomically diverse sample of Chinese American children in immigrant families (N = 258, Wave 1 age = 6–9 years, Wave 2 age = 9–11 years, 52% boys, 57% low‐income) in a longitudinal study (2007–2011) during early elementary school years. Family income uniquely related to a self‐regulation latent factor ( = .22), and parent–child Chinese orientation gaps were associated with parent‐reported effortful control ( = .40). Self‐regulation at W1 negatively predicted parent‐ and teacher‐reported behavioral maladjustment ( = −.22 and −.48) at W2, controlling for cross‐time stability of both constructs and covariates (child sex, parental education).
The neoadjuvant rectal score and a novel magnetic resonance imaging based neoadjuvant rectal score are stage independent predictors of long‐term outcome in locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: McMahon Ross K. , O'Cathail Sean M. , Nair Harikrishnan , Steele Colin W. , Platt Jonathan J. , Digby Michael , McDonald Alec C. , Horgan Paul G. , Roxburgh Campbell S. D.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Neoadjuvant rectal (NAR) score is an early surrogate for longer‐term outcomes in rectal cancer undergoing radiotherapy and resection. In an era of increasing organ preservation, resection specimens are not always available to calculate the NAR score. Post‐treatment magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) re‐staging of regression is subjective, limiting reproducibility. We explored the potential for a novel MRI‐based NAR score (mrNAR) adapted from the NAR formula.

Methods

Locally advanced rectal cancer patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy (nCRT) and surgery were retrospectively identified between 2008 and 2020 in a single cancer network. mrNAR was calculated by adapting the NAR formula, replacing pathological (p) stages with post‐nCRT MR stages (ymr). Cox regression assessed relationships between clinicopathological characteristics, NAR and mrNAR with overall survival (OS) and recurrence‐free survival (RFS).

Results

In total, 381 NAR and 177 mrNAR scores were calculated. On univariate analysis NAR related to OS (hazard ratio [HR] 2.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.33–3.14, p = 0.001) and RFS (HR 2.52, 95% CI 1.77–3.59, p = 0.001). NAR 3‐year OS <8 was 95.3%, 8–16 was 88.6% and >16 was 80%. mrNAR related to OS (HR 2.96, 95% CI 1.38–6.34, p = 0.005) and RFS (HR 2.99, 95% CI 1.49–6.00, p = 0.002). 3‐year OS for mrNAR <8 was 96.2%, 8–16 was 92.4% and >16 was 78%. On multivariate analysis, mrNAR was a stage‐independent predictor of OS and RFS. mrNAR corresponded to NAR score category in only 15% (positive predictive value 0.23) and 47.5% (positive predictive value 0.48) of cases for categories <8 and >16, respectively.

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant rectal score is validated as a surrogate end‐point for long‐term outcomes. mrNAR categories do not correlate with NAR but have stage‐independent prognostic value. mrNAR may represent a novel surrogate end‐point for future neoadjuvant treatments that focus on organ preservation.
Never Gonna Give You Up Even When It Is Suboptimal
Authors: Lin Hsuan‐Yu , von Helversen Bettina
Published: July 2023

Previous research showed that animals adopt different foraging strategies in different environment settings. However, research on whether humans adapt their foraging strategies to the foraging environment has shown little evidence of a change in strategies. This study aims to investigate whether humans will adapt their foraging strategies when performance differences between strategies are large and why participants may fixate on a single strategy. We conducted two foraging experiments and identified the strategies used by the participants. Most participants used the Give‐Up Time (GUT) strategy regardless of the environment they encountered. GUT was used even in environments where other strategies such as the Fixed‐Time strategy or the Fixed‐Number strategy performed better. Using computer simulations, we further examined the conditions under which the GUT strategy will perform well compared to the other strategies. We found that even though the GUT strategy is not always the best strategy, it performs consistently on a satisfactory level and had an advantage when variance in the quality of patches was introduced. The consistently good performance of the GUT strategy could thus explain participants’ lack of strategy switching.
Evaluating scent detection dogs as a tool to detect pathogenic Phytophthora species
Authors: Carter Zachary T. , McNaughton Ellery J. , Fea Murray P. , Horner Ian , Johnson Kerryn , Killick Sarah , McLay Jessica , Shields Brian , Stanley Margaret C. , Glen Alistair S.
Published: July 2023

The fungal genus Phytophthora includes an array of destructive plant pathogens that have had severe impacts on native, agricultural, and horticultural systems worldwide. Preventing the spread of Phytophthora species is critical for protecting vulnerable plants and ecosystems; yet detection remains a challenge due to their microscopic size, broad host range, and latent and cryptic expression in host plants. We tested the effectiveness of trained detection dogs to discriminate the odor of a target Phytophthora species, from among other non‐target odors, by conducting a multi‐choice experiment. We tasked two dogs with discriminating the scent of P. agathidicida—the causal agent of the lethal root rot disease “kauri dieback”—from two non‐target Phytophthora scents (P. cinnamomi and P. multivora), and four non‐target control treatments. We assessed the dogs' scent detection abilities by measuring the sensitivity and precision of their indications toward the target scent over 120 randomized trials. The dogs had a combined sensitivity of 68.6% (CI: 64.1–72.9) and precision of 52.2% (CI: 48.1–56.4), meaning they often identified P. agathidicida when it was present but also signaled on the other non‐target Phytophthora species. Moreover, we characterized the nature of false positive indications made for non‐target scents, which has important implications for how future multi‐choice experiments should be conducted. Our study shows that detection dogs are likely to be an adequate first‐pass detection tool for Phytophthora within a wider biosecurity framework. However, further research is warranted before dogs can be deployed for this purpose in the field.
From colony to fallout: Artificial lights pose risk to seabird fledglings far from their natal colonies
Authors: Friswold Brooke , Idle Jessica L. , Learned Jennifer , Penniman Jay , Bolosan Tiana , Cotin Javier , Young Lindsay , Price Melissa R.
Published: July 2023

Seabirds are at risk of decline from multiple threats, including artificial light resulting in their grounding (“fallout”). Without evidence, it can be assumed that seabirds travel short distances from natal colonies to their fallout location, potentially to the closest light source. To test this, a case study on wedge‐tailed shearwaters (Ardenna pacifica, ʻUaʻu kani) fledging from the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi was conducted. To assess fallout locations in relation to natal colonies, we affixed identification bands to 4648 chicks at nine natal colonies prior to fledging from 2018 to 2022. Distances between fallout location and natal colony were mapped and fallout location characteristics (radiance, elevation, distances to nearest coastline, road, and colony) were analyzed for 27 banded fledglings that were discovered post‐fallout. The distance between the natal colony and fallout location was significantly greater than the distance between the nearest colony and the fallout location. Fallout often occurred on opposite coastlines from the natal colonies and at substantial distances (x¯ = 24.91 km), with one fallout event recorded on a different island from the natal colony. Our results demonstrate that all artificial lights, regardless of proximity to seabird colonies, may pose a threat to seabird fallout and that fallout is often occurring far from natal colonies and in inconsistent patterns. Collaborative, large‐scale, and multi‐island light management alteration, particularly during fledging periods, is critical in recovering Pacific Island seabird populations. Actions such as these will benefit not only light‐sensitive species such as seabirds and sea turtles but also human health and night‐sky viewing.
Anal cytology: Diagnosis of intestinal spirochaetosis
Authors: Vega‐González Jesús , Pérez‐Alonso Pablo , Sanz Gonzalo , Fernández‐Aceñero María Jesús
Published: July 2023

Objective

A case of intestinal spirochaetosis diagnosed in anal cytology is presented.

Methods

An anal liquid‐based cytology was performed and stained with Papanicolau and Warthin‐Starry stains.

Results

An apical filamentous “fringe” was identified in columnar cells groups.

Conclusion

Anal cytology is a potential tool for intestinal spirochaetosis diagnosis.
Stock assessment of Larimus breviceps, a bycatch species exploited by artisanal beach seining in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Santos Lucas , Vasconcelos‐Filho Jonas , Eduardo Leandro N. , Lira Alex , Craveiro Cecília , Silva Emanuell F. , Lucena‐Frédou Flávia
Published: July 2023

Motorized trawling was banned off part of the Brazilian coast in 1990 due to environmental impacts, thus artisanal fishermen adopted large beach seines as an alternative. No impact assessments have been conducted on any species; therefore, we examined the life history and stock status of shorthead drum, Larimus breviceps, a primary bycatch in tropical shrimp fisheries. Between 2016 and 2017, 969 shorthead drum were collected and analyzed using ELEFAN‐based models. Females were larger, more abundant, and older than males. Capture rates of juvenile were high, and no mega‐spawners were found. Integrated stock assessment indicated slight overexploitation and growth overfishing. Increased yield per recruit was indicated by high length at first capture. Shorthead drum segregate ontogenetically by size. Growth, mortality, and longevity may be temperature‐influenced. We found that beach seine fisheries may impact shorthead drum by population depletion and potential disruptions to reproductive capacity and recommend further studies and management to improve sustainability.
Increased influenza severity in children in the wake of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Hoy Gregory , Maier Hannah E. , Kuan Guillermina , Sánchez Nery , López Roger , Meyers Alyssa , Plazaola Miguel , Ojeda Sergio , Balmaseda Angel , Gordon Aubree
Published: July 2023

The SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic and subsequent interruption of influenza circulation has lowered population immunity to influenza, especially among children with few prepandemic exposures. Using data from a prospective pediatric cohort study based in Managua, Nicaragua, we compared the incidence and severity of influenza A/H3N2 and influenza B/Victoria between 2022 and two prepandemic seasons. We found a higher incidence of A/H3N2 in older children in 2022 compared with pre‐2020 and a higher proportion of severe influenza in 2022, primarily among children aged 0–4, suggesting an influence of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic on influenza incidence and severity in children.
Efficient extraction of impurities from phosphogypsum during crystal regulation of α‐hemihydrate gypsum
Authors: Guan Qingjun , Sun Ning , Bu Yongjie , Fan Ruihua , Zhang Zhenyue , Yu Weijian , Chi Ru‐an , Gao Zhiyong
Published: July 2023

Phosphogypsum (PG) is a solid waste generated during the “wet phosphoric acid process.” The phosphorus (P) impurities and low‐value‐added recycling products seriously constrain PG re‐utilization, which results in its massive accumulation and thus occupies large land areas and poses a severe pollution threat to the environment. In this study, by regulating gypsum crystal and P species in CaCl2–HCl solutions under mild conditions, efficient removal of P impurities (leaching efficiency of 97.78%) and synchronous preparation of high‐strength α‐CaSO4·0.5H2O (α‐HH) (compressive strength of 35.2 MPa) from PG were achieved during the phase transition from CaSO4·2H2O (DH) to α‐HH, which was a reaction of DH dissolution, followed by α‐HH crystallization. The co‐crystalline P was fully released during the dissolution process, which was necessary to efficiently eliminate P impurities. HCl dissolved the released P and transformed them into the protonated specie (H3PO4) with less similarity to SO42−, which prevented the recombination of the released P with gypsum during the crystallization process. Furthermore, α‐HH morphology and size were controlled by seeding in the mixed solutions. The formation of regular large α‐HH crystals with a low‐specific surface area significantly weakened the surface adsorption of P in solutions and further increased the P leaching efficiency. More importantly, the large stumpy α‐HH was identified as high‐strength gypsum with high added value. This work would provide innovative guidance to efficiently remove impurities from gypsum and pioneer a cost‐effective approach for clean and high‐value utilization of industrial gypsum residues.
Phylogeography and host‐shift speciation in the vampirecups, an enigmatic clade of endophytic holoparasitic plants
Authors: Martos Florent , Hobbhahn Nina , de Vega Clara , Johnson Steven D.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Diversification of obligate parasites is often closely associated with historical shifts among host species. This phenomenon is well‐documented in animal parasites but still poorly understood for parasitic plants. We studied the associations between host shifts, biogeography and diversification in Cytinus, a genus of endophytic holoparasitic plants which show a remarkable disjunct distribution.

Location

Mediterranean Basin, southern Africa, Madagascar.

Taxon

Cytinus.

Methods

We sampled numerous populations in South Africa and the western Mediterranean Basin, as well as a few populations in Madagascar where the genus is rare. We amplified two nuclear (ITS and SSU) and two mitochondrial (matR and nad1) loci, to infer its evolutionary history using maximum likelihood and time‐calibrated Bayesian analyses, to elucidate the factors responsible for its current distribution and to assess whether host switching is a main driver of speciation.

Results

All genes recover lineages corresponding to the three geographic areas of Cytinus and sublineages associated with specific host plants, although they disagree on their deep‐level relationships. Ribosomal nuclear genes support an initial split of the Malagasy lineage and an Afrotropical origin of Cytinus before colonization of warm temperate latitudes. Mitochondrial genes support an initial split of the Mediterranean and Afro‐Malagasy lineages and a later split between the South African and Malagasy clades. Introgressive hybridization is the most likely explanation for this discrepancy, while horizontal gene transfers from hosts is less likely. We found strong support for cryptic host‐specific diversity, with five and eight host races in the Mediterranean and South Africa respectively, and a strong phylogenetic signal in the host–parasite associations suggestive of parasite diversification via phylogenetic host tracking.

Main Conclusions

These dated phylogenies indicate that radiation through long‐distance dispersal events and adaptation to new hosts best explain the disjunct distribution of Cytinus. We emphasize the importance of host specificity and host‐switching in the diversification and biogeography of plant endoparasites.
Exploring the effects of gender in skills acquisition in collaborative learning based on the ontological clustering model
Authors: Hadyaoui Asma , Cheniti‐Belcadhi Lilia
Published: July 2023

Background

Project‐based collaborative learning (PBCL) is a technique that supports knowledge and skill development through complex, real‐world projects. Understanding factors that influence group performance in PBCL, such as gender composition, is crucial.

Objectives

This study investigates the impact of gender composition on group performance in PBCL, specifically focusing on the critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration (4Cs) 21st‐century learning skills.

Methods

A total of 312 students were divided into distinct Python programming groups for the experiment. Group performance was assessed using an agglomerative clustering algorithm guided by the ontological group learner model, which examined gender composition, communication patterns, collaboration strategies and project assessment outcomes.

Results and Conclusion

Gender‐balanced groups demonstrated positive outcomes in the 4Cs skills, with groups containing a greater proportion of women exhibiting superior performance in collaboration and communication, whereas majority‐male groups performed relatively poorer across all skills. Notably, in the context of PBCL, the presence of more women in small groups enhanced the 4Cs skills project assessment outcomes.

Takeaways

Future research should focus on providing effective support for male online learners in developing the 4Cs skills. The findings offer insights and recommendations for group formation in collaborative learning, facilitating the design of inclusive and impactful learning environments.
Research Review: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of sex differences in narrow constructs of restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests in autistic children, adolescents, and adults
Authors: Edwards Hannah , Wright Sarah , Sargeant Cora , Cortese Samuele , Wood‐Downie Henry
Published: July 2023

Background

Evidence that autism often manifests differently between males and females is growing, particularly in terms of social interaction and communication, but it is unclear if there are sex differences in restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests (RRBIs) when rigorously focusing on the narrow construct level (i.e., stereotyped behaviour, restricted interests, insistence on sameness, and/or sensory experiences).

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and four random effects meta‐analyses investigating sex differences in narrow construct measures of RRBIs in autistic children, adolescents, and adults (Prospero registration ID: CRD42021254221). Study quality was appraised using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Results

Forty‐six studies were narratively synthesised and 25 of these were included in four random effects meta‐analyses. Results found that autistic males had significantly higher levels of stereotyped behaviours (SMD = 0.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.09, 0.33], p < .001) and restricted interests (SMD = 0.18, 95% CI [0.07, 0.29], p < .001) compared to autistic females. In contrast, there were no significant sex differences for sensory experiences (SMD = −0.09, 95% CI [−0.27, 0.09], p = .32) and insistence on sameness (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI [−0.03, 0.05], p = .68). The findings from the narrative synthesis were generally consistent with those from the meta‐analyses and also found qualitative sex differences in the way RRBIs manifest.

Conclusions

Our findings show significant differences in narrowly defined RRBIs in males and females. Practitioners need to be aware of such differences, which could be contributing to the under‐recognition of autism in females and may not be captured by current diagnostic instruments.
Readmissions after appointments with nurse prescribers: A register‐based study
Authors: Koskiniemi Saija , Sund Reijo , Liukka Mari , Härkänen Marja
Published: July 2023

Background

Increasing number of nurse prescribers could be part of a solution to the shortage of physicians, improve access to treatment and curb the rise in healthcare costs; however, readmissions after nurse prescribers' appointments are under‐researched.

Aims

To describe and compare clients' initial appointments with nurse prescribers and physicians. In addition, client readmissions within 60 days in the target organisation after nurse prescribers' and physicians' appointments were investigated.

Design

Retrospective register‐based follow‐up study.

Methods

Data included client appointments (n = 3986) with nurse prescribers and physicians, and clients' readmissions (n = 9038) from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2019 from one hospital district in Finland. Data were analysed statistically using frequencies, percentages, rate ratios and cross‐tabulation. STROBE checklist was used.

Results

Initial appointments including trimethoprim, pivmecillinam, phenoxymethyl penicillin, chloramphenicol, fusidic acid and cephalexin prescriptions with nurse prescribers (n = 36) were 2131, and physicians (n = 140) 1855. On average, client readmissions (within 60 days) per initial appointment were 2.10 after appointments with nurse prescribers and 2.46 after physicians. After initial appointments, including phenoxymethyl penicillin prescriptions, with nurse prescribers, clients had more readmissions in all age groups than after initial appointments with physicians. However, in all, after initial appointments with physicians, clients had a higher proportion of readmissions.

Conclusion

Clients have fewer readmissions after appointments with nurse prescribers than physicians, including the same prescriptions. Nurse prescribers' skills may not have been fully utilised. Physicians treated many patients whose diseases nurse prescribers might have been able to treat based on the nurse prescribers' rights. However, physician clients may have more demanding service requirements.
Democratic representation and non‐majoritarian actors in constitutional orders: a systemic analysis
Authors: VALENTINI CHIARA
Published: July 2023

A systemic analysis of constitutional democratic orders can shed light on two important aspects of political representation (PR): first, the complexity of PR as a plural endeavour involving various actors that perform different activities within a common framework; and second, the diachronic dimension of such an endeavour, which takes shape over time. The article elucidates both aspects with a focus on adjudicative bodies, to point out their representative status and potential as part of a systemic continuum that unfolds over time.
Characterization and pathogenicity of Fusarium species causing sugar beet root rot in Morocco
Authors: Farhaoui Abdelaaziz , El Alami Nabila , Gachara Grace , Ezrari Said , Khadiri Mohammed , Tahiri Abdessalem , Radouane Nabil , Belabess Zineb , Lahlali Rachid
Published: July 2023

The sugar beet crop ranks second globally among the plant species grown mainly for sugar production. In Morocco, the area under sugar beet farming occupies approximately 57,000 ha yielding more than 3 million tons of roots. However, sugar beet root‐tip rot (RTR) caused by Fusarium spp. dramatically reduces the anticipated yields, the purity of the resulting juice, and the sugar concentration. The current study aimed at identifying and characterizing the Fusarium species responsible for the root rot in sugar beet grown in the Khenifra‐Beni Mellal region of Morocco. In this survey, 69 isolates of Fusarium were sampled from sugar beet roots showing typical symptoms of root rot from 2019 to 2021. After screening based on the pathogenicity test, 28 isolates were selected and identified based on morphological features and sequence analyses of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and translation elongation factor 1 α 34 (TEF‐1 α). Fusarium oxysporum was the most frequently identified species, followed closely by F. solani, F. equiseti, F. nygmai, F. brachygibbosum, F. proliferatum, F. culmorum, and F. falciforme. Six weeks after inoculations under greenhouse conditions, the studied isolates caused internal vascular discoloration and tip rot of sugar beet roots, with disease incidences ranging from 37.5% to 100.0% and a disease index between 30.3% and 70.5%. Isolates belonging to F. solani were the most aggressive. Moreover, the majority of isolates significantly reduced plant growth. To our knowledge, this research article is the first report of Fusarium species inducing RTR in sugar beet in Morocco.
Angiogenesis, coagulation, and fibrinolytic markers in acute promyelocytic leukemia (NB4): An evaluation of melatonin effects
Authors: Amirzargar Mohammad Reza , Shahriyary Fahimeh , Shahidi Minoo , Kooshari Ahmad , Vafajoo Mahshid , Nekouian Reza , Faranoush Mohammad
Published: July 2023

Melatonin is a powerful biological agent that has been shown to inhibit angiogenesis and also exerts anti‐inflammatory effects. It is well known that new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis) has become an urgent issue in leukemia as well as solid tumors. Acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) is a form of liquid cancer that manifests increased angiogenesis in the bone marrow of patients. Despite high‐rate curable treatment with all‐trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA) and recently arsenic‐trioxide (ATO), early death because of hemorrhage, coagulopathy, and Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) remains still a concerning issue in these patients. It is, therefore, urgent to seek treatment strategies with antiangiogenic capabilities that also diminish coagulopathy and hyperfibrinolysis in APL patients. In this study, a coculture system with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and NB4 APL cells was used to investigate the direct effect of melatonin on angiogenesis and its possible action on tissue factor (TF) and tissue‐type plasminogen activator‐1 (TPA‐1) expression. Our experiments revealed that HUVEC‐induced angiogenesis by cocultured NB4 cells was suppressed when melatonin alone or in combination with ATRA was added to the incubation medium. Melatonin at concentrations of 1 mM inhibited tube formation of HUVECs and also decreased interleukin‐6 secretion and VEGF mRNA expression in HUVEC and NB4 cells. Taken together, the results of this study demonstrate that melatonin inhibits accelerated angiogenesis of HUVECs and ameliorates the coagulation and fibrinolysis indices stimulated by coculturing with NB4 cells.
Profile of patients with a positive HCV viral load in a large French psychiatric hospital (2019–2021): A case–control study
Authors: Torres Coralie , Bauer Guillaume , Aubriet Sabrina , Scholtes Caroline , Bailly François , Maynard‐Muet Marianne , Pradat Pierre , Pillot‐Meunier Françoise , Lespine Louis‐Ferdinand , Rolland Benjamin
Published: July 2023

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is highly prevalent in people with mental disorders (PWMDs). However, in the international context of HCV elimination, no previous study has explored the features of seropositive PWMDs with vs. without a positive viral load (VL). We retrospectively retrieved all HCV serology results of patients hospitalized in 2019, 2020 and 2021 in the second‐largest psychiatric hospital of France. Using the medical records of all patients found seropositive for HCV, the following data were collected: sex (male, female), age (in years), previous history of illicit drug use except cannabis (yes or no) and previous history of incarceration (yes or no). We conducted a case–control comparison of these variables between the PWMDs who had and did not have a positive VL, thus providing odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (ORs [95% CI]). In a total of 13,276 inpatients, 2540 (19.1%) underwent at least one HCV serology; 55 of them (2.16%) were found positive. A VL count was performed for 48 of them, finding 15 (31.3%) individuals with active HCV. Compared with those with a negative VL, these 15 individuals were less likely to have previous documented illicit drug use (OR = 0.18; 95% CI [0.05–0.68]) and to have been previously incarcerated (OR = 0.23; 95% CI [0.06–0.99]); age and sex did not statistically differ. In the context of HCV elimination, PWMDs yet to be treated for HCV are more likely to be those with no identified risk factor for HCV, which supports a strategy of systematic screening for HCV among PWMDs.
Acceptability and usability of oral fluid HCV self‐testing for hepatitis C diagnosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Perazzo Hugo , Castro Rodolfo , Villela‐Nogueira Cristiane , Torres Marcos , Silva Samara Luiza , Cardoso Sandra W. , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Veloso Valdilea G.
Published: July 2023

Data on the acceptability and usability of hepatitis C virus self‐testing (HCVST) remain scarce. We estimated the pooled rates of acceptability/feasibility and re‐reading/re‐testing agreement of HCVST using oral fluid tests (PROSPERO‐CRD42022349874). We searched online databases for studies that evaluated acceptability, usability and inter‐reader/operator variability for HCVST using oral fluid tests. Pooled estimates of feasibility, agreement and post‐testing perspectives were analysed. Sensitivity analyses were performed in men who have sex with men (MSM) and people who inject drugs (PWID). Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistics. A total of six studies comprising 870 participants were identified: USA (n = 95 with liver disease), Kenya (n = 150 PWID), Egypt (n = 116 from the general population), Vietnam (n = 104 MSM and n = 105 PWID), China (n = 100 MSM) and Georgia (n = 100 MSM and n = 100 PWID)]. All studies used OraQuick® HCV Rapid Antibody Test. The pooled overall estimates for correct sample collection and for people who performed HCVST without needing assistance in any step (95% confidence interval [CI]) were 87.2% [76.0–95.3] (n = 755; I2 = 93.7%) and 62.6% [37.2–84.8] (n = 755; I2 = 98.0%), respectively. The pooled estimate of agreement for re‐reading was 95.0% [95% CI 91.5–97.6] (n = 831; I2 = 74.0%) and for re‐testing was 94.4% [90.3–97.5] (n = 726; I2 = 77.1%). The pooled estimate of those who would recommend HCVST was 94.4% [84.7–99.6] (n = 625; I2 = 93.7%). Pooled estimates (95% CI) of correct sample collection (72.8% [63.3–81.5] vs. 90.8% [85.9–94.8]) and performance of HCVST without needing assistance (44.1% [14.1–76.7] vs. 78.1% [53.4–95.3]) was lower in PWID compared to MSM. In summary, HCV testing with oral fluid HCVST was feasible and well‐accepted. Oral fluid HCVST should be considered in key populations for uptake HCV testing.
Lactobacillus gasseri and Gardnerella vaginalis produce extracellular vesicles that contribute to the function of the vaginal microbiome and modulate host–Trichomonas vaginalis interactions
Authors: Artuyants Anastasiia , Hong Jiwon , Dauros‐Singorenko Priscila , Phillips Anthony , Simoes‐Barbosa Augusto
Published: July 2023

Trichomonas vaginalis is an extracellular protozoan parasite of the human urogenital tract, responsible for a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Trichomoniasis is accompanied by a dysbiotic microbiome that is characterised by the depletion of host‐protective commensals such as Lactobacillus gasseri, and the flourishing of a bacterial consortium that is comparable to the one seen for bacterial vaginosis, including the founder species Gardnerella vaginalis. These two vaginal bacteria are known to have opposite effects on T. vaginalis pathogenicity. Studies on extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been focused on the direction of a microbial producer (commensal or pathogen) to a host recipient, and largely in the context of the gut microbiome. Here, taking advantage of the simplicity of the human cervicovaginal microbiome, we determined the molecular cargo of EVs produced by L. gasseri and G. vaginalis and examined how these vesicles modulate the interaction of T. vaginalis and host cells. We show that these EVs carry a specific cargo of proteins, which functions can be attributed to the opposite roles that these bacteria play in the vaginal biome. Furthermore, these bacterial EVs are delivered to host and protozoan cells, modulating host‐pathogen interactions in a way that mimics the opposite effects that these bacteria have on T. vaginalis pathogenicity. This is the first study to describe side‐by‐side the protein composition of EVs produced by two bacteria belonging to the opposite spectrum of a microbiome and to demonstrate that these vesicles modulate the pathogenicity of a protozoan parasite. Such as in trichomoniasis, infections and dysbiosis co‐occur frequently resulting in significant co‐morbidities. Therefore, studies like this provide the knowledge for the development of antimicrobial therapies that aim to clear the infection while restoring a healthy microbiome.
Factors influencing home health care providers' performance of oral health care for older people: A qualitative study
Authors: Henni Silje Havrevold , Ansteinsson Vibeke , Mamykina Lena , Szyszko Hovden Ewa A. , Hove Lene Hystad , Hellesø Ragnhild
Published: July 2023

Aim

To examine factors that affect the performance of oral health care (OHC) for older people receiving nursing care at home.

Background

Oral health is often neglected by health care providers caring for older people. Research shows that health care providers' provision of OHC may be influenced by various factors (barriers and facilitators). When this research was conducted, health care providers from home healthcare services (HHCS) and nursing homes were grouped together despite setting differences; therefore, this study focuses on the performance of OHC by home health care providers (HHCPs) as a single group.

Design

Explorative design with a qualitative approach.

Methods

The managers of four HHCS units recruited 17 HHCPs to participate in focus group interviews. One interview was conducted per unit, and there were four to five participants in each interview. The analysis of interviews was based on theoretical thematic analysis and the PRECEDE constructs in the PRECEDE–PROCEED model. Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines were used in reporting this study.

Findings

The analysis resulted in two themes with predisposing factors (HHCPs' professional responsibilities, older people's attitude), five themes with enabling factors (knowledge and skills, older people/carer trust, available time, available equipment and collaboration with public dental service (PDS)), and two themes with reinforcing factors (routines and OHC focus on the workplace) that affect the provision of OHC. The factors were categorised as individual, organisational and collaboration factors.

Conclusions

In addition to individual factors found in previous studies, factors related to the organisation of services and communication between HHCPs and PDS seem to affect HHCPs' provision of OHC for adults receiving HHCS.

Implications for Practice

This study provides in‐depth knowledge that can contribute to increasing HHCPs' provision of OHC and thereby prevent oral and dental disease among older people receiving HHCS.
Pseudo‐pacemaker syndrome with prolonged PR interval: A narrative review
Authors: Chestaro Feliz Julian , Duran Luciano Priscilla , Guevara Nehemias , Zaremski Lynn , Baghdadi Salim , Marazzato Jacopo , Di Biase Luigi
Published: July 2023

Pseudo‐pacemaker syndrome (PPMS) is a rare complication of first‐degree atrio‐ventricular (AV) block in which a very prolonged PR interval causes AV dyssynchrony and subsequent symptoms of hemodynamic instability in the absence of an implanted pacemaker. The aim of this manuscript was to describe a unique case of PPMS and to provide a comprehensive review of the topic to help clinicians in the diagnosis and management of this condition. Through systematic research on PubMed, Google Scholar, EBSCO, and Ovid MEDLINE and using the search strings “pseudo‐pacemaker syndrome” and “symptomatic first‐degree AV block,” we identified 14 articles accounting for 17 cases of PPMS, including our case report. The most common age group for PPMS was middle‐aged and young adults, with an average age of 47 years. Palpitations were the most common presenting symptom and four main etiologies of PPMS were identified, as follows: (1) Idiopathic PPMS with evidence of impaired conduction over the AV node (20% of cases), (2) PPMS associated with reversable inflammatory causes (13%) or (3) associated with iatrogenic surgical or interventional procedures leading to the permanent damage of the normal AV conduction system (20%), and, finally, (4) PPM related to dual AV nodal physiology (DAVNP) as a primary finding (27%) or occurring after fast or slow pathway ablation for treatment of AV nodal re‐entrant tachycardia (AVNRT) (20%). Treatment should be patient‐tailored and based on the specific etiology once identified. However, the treatment of PPMS due to DAVNP without AVNRT presentation is yet to be clarified.
Maize (Zea mays L.) planted at higher density utilizes dynamic light more efficiently
Authors: Zheng Bin , Li Yu‐Ting , Wu Qiu‐Ping , Zhao Wei , Ren Ting‐Hu , Zhang Xing‐Hui , Li Geng , Ning Tang‐Yuan , Zhang Zi‐Shan
Published: July 2023

In nature, plants are exposed to a dynamic light environment. Fluctuations in light decreased the photosynthetic light utilization efficiency (PLUE) of leaves, and much more severely in C4 species than in C3 species. However, little is known about the plasticity of PLUE under dynamic light in C4 species. Present study focused on the influence of planting density to the photosynthesis under dynamic light in maize (Zea mays L.), a most important C4 crop. In addition, the molecular mechanism behind photosynthetic adaptation to planting density were also explored by quantitative proteomics analysis. Results revealed that as planting density increases, maize leaves receive less light that fluctuates more. The maize planted at high density (HD) improved the PLUE under dynamic light, especially in the middle and later growth stages. Quantitative proteomics analysis showed that the transfer of nitrogen from Rubisco to RuBP regeneration and C4 pathway related enzymes contributes to the photosynthetic adaptation to lower and more fluctuating light environment in HD maize. This study provides potential ways to further improve the light energy utilization efficiency of maize in HD.
Intraindividual variability in sleep among athletes: A systematic review of definitions, operationalizations, and key correlates
Authors: Kemp Shana , Spence Angela L. , Keller Brad S. , Ducker Kagan J. , Gucciardi Daniel F.
Published: July 2023

Via systematic review with narrative synthesis of findings, we aimed to document the ways by which researchers have defined, operationalized, and examined sleep variability among athletes. We identified studies in which scholars examined intraperson variability in sleep among athletes via a search of six databases (Web of Science, Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, CINHAL Plus, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global) using a protocol that included keywords for the target outcome (sleep*), population (athlet* OR sport*), and outcome operationalization (variability OR variation OR “standard deviation” OR fluctuate OR fluctuation OR stability OR instability OR reactivity OR IIV OR intraindividual). We complemented this primary search with citation searching of eligible articles. Assessments of study quality captured eight core elements, namely aims/hypotheses, sample size justification, sample representativeness, number of days sleep assessed, measures of sleep and its correlates, missing data, and inferences and conclusions. From a total of 1209 potentially relevant papers, we identified 16 studies as meeting our eligibility criteria. Concept definitions of variability were notably absent from this work and where available were vague. Quantitative deviations from one's typical level of target sleep metrics reflected the essence by which all but one of the research teams operationalized sleep variability. We assessed the overall quality of empirical work as moderate in nature. We propose a working definition of sleep variability that can inform knowledge generation on the temporal, day‐to‐day dynamics of sleep functioning that is required for personalized interventions for optimizing sleep health.
Clinical and histopathological features of proliferative corneal lesions in Cyprininae fishes: Implications for treatment and insights into corneal tumors
Authors: Kim Soohyun , Moore Bret A. , Parker Christine , Siniard Wesley C. , Ang June , Teixeira Leandro B. C. , Thomasy Sara M. , Murphy Christopher J. , Soto Esteban
Published: July 2023

Captive fish populations, such as those encompassing aquarium and pet fish, offer significant economic value and are integral to conservation, research, and education. However, these ornamental fish exhibit a reduced ability to protect their ocular surfaces, and our understanding of the ocular diseases that affect them remains limited. Although corneal neoplasms in carp are uncommon, identifying their distinct characteristics is crucial in selecting appropriate therapeutic interventions that aim to preserve vision, prevent the ocular loss, and ultimately ensure the survival of the affected fish. This study provides clinical and histopathological details of various proliferative corneal masses in Cyprininae species, including five koi (Cyprinus carpio) and four goldfish (Carassius auratus). It discusses a spectrum of neoplasms, including soft tissue sarcoma, spindle cell sarcoma, chromatophoroma, and papilloma, in addition to conditions like exuberant granulation tissue and proliferative carp pox. These findings bear significant implications for clinical decision‐making and treatment, offering valuable insights into the incidence and characteristics of corneal tumors in captive fish, which could inform further studies in this area.
Development of Bench-Scale Direct Contact Membrane Distillation System for Treatment of Palm Oil Mill Effluent
Authors: Yi C. Wan , Xin N. Hwee , Mokhtar N. M.
Published: July 2023

The oil palm industries generate large amounts of effluent that can cause pollution and, as a result, pose serious threats to the environment. Recently, membrane distillation (MD) has been identified as a potential candidate for treatment of palm oil mill effluents (POME). This is because the release of POME at high temperature may reduce the need to preheat the effluent prior to operation. The objective of this article is to manufacture a bench-scale MD system and assess the performance of the system in POME treatment. This project started with the design of a process and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) and continued with the fabrication part. Subsequently, the performance of the direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD) system was tested using POME as a feed solution. Three different feed temperatures (55 °C, 65 °C and 75 °C) were analyzed during the testing. The results obtained show that the permeate flux increased with the increase of feed temperature with the highest flux is 10.76 kg/m2.hr. More than 85% of pollutants including ammonia nitrogen, color, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and turbidity were rejected. This shows that the system is capable of treating POME and producing high quality permeate water.