bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusion and Oligomerization States of the Muscarinic M1 Receptor in Live Cells − The Impact of Ligands and Membrane Disruptors
Authors: Zhou Xiaohan , Septien-Gonzalez Horacio , Husaini Sami , Ward Richard J. , Milligan Graeme , Gradinaru Claudiu C.
Published: March 2024

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a major gateway to cellular signaling, which respond to ligands binding at extracellular sites through allosteric conformational changes that modulate their interactions with G proteins and arrestins at intracellular sites. High-resolution structures in different liganded states together with spectroscopic studies and molecular dynamics simulations have revealed a rich conformational landscape of GPCRs. However, their supramolecular spatio-temporal distribution is also thought to play a significant role in receptor activation and signaling bias within the native cell membrane environment. Here, we applied single-molecule fluorescence techniques, including single-particle tracking, single-molecule photobleaching and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, to characterize the diffusion and oligomerization behavior of the muscarinic M1receptor (M1R) in live cells. Control samples included the monomeric protein CD86 and fixed cells, and experiments performed in the presence of different orthosteric M1R ligands and of several compounds known to change the fluidity and organization of the lipid bilayer. M1receptors exhibit Brownian diffusion characterized by three diffusion constants:confined/immobile(∼0.01 μm2/s),slow(∼0.04 μm2/s), andfast(∼0.14 μm2/s), whose populations were found to be modulated by both orthosteric ligands and membrane disruptors. The lipid raft disruptor C6-ceramide led to significant changes for CD86 while leaving the diffusion of M1R unchanged, indicating that M1receptors do not partition in lipid rafts. The extent of receptor oligomerization was found to be promoted by increasing the level of expression, and the binding of orthosteric ligands; in particular the agonist carbachol elicited a large increase in the fraction of M1R oligomers. This study provides new insights into the balance between conformational and environmental factors that define the movement and oligomerization states of GPCRs in live cells under close-to-native conditions.
Twist - torsion coupling in beating axonemes
Authors: Striegler Martin , Friedrich Benjamin M. , Diez Stefan , Geyer Veikko F.
Published: March 2024

Motile cilia and flagella are ubiquitous cell appendages whose regular bending waves pump fluids across tissue surfaces and enable single-cell navigation. Key to these functions are their non-planar waveforms with characteristic torsion. It is not known how torsion, a purely geometric property of the shape, is related to mechanical deformations of the axoneme, the conserved cytoskeletal core of cilia and flagella. Here, we assess torsion and twist in reactivated axonemes isolated from the green algaChlamydomonas reinhardtii. Using defocused darkfield microscopy and beat-cycle averaging, we resolve the 3D shapes of the axonemal waveform with nanometer precision at millisecond timescales. Our measurements reveal regular hetero-chiral torsion waves propagating base to tip with a peak-to-peak amplitude of 22 º/µm. To investigate if the observed torsion results from axonemal twist, we attach gold nanoparticles to axonemes to measure its cross-section rotation during beating. We find that locally, the axonemal cross-section co-rotates with the bending plane. This co-rotation presents the first experimental evidence for twist-torsion coupling and indicates that twist waves propagate along the axoneme during beating. Our work thus links shape to mechanical deformation of beating axonemes, informing models of motor regulation that shape the beat of motile cilia.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, calculations of crystal voids, interaction energy and energy frameworks as well as density functional theory (DFT) calculations of 3-[2-(morpholin-4-yl)ethyl]-5,5-diphenylimidazolidine-2,4-dione
Authors: Lamssane Houda , Haoudi Amal , Kartah Badr Eddine , Mazzah Ahmed , Mague Joel T. , Hökelek Tuncer , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Sebbar Nada Kheira
Published: March 2024

In the title molecule, C21H23N3O3, the imidazolidine ring slightly deviates from planarity and the morpholine ring exhibits the chair conformation. In the crystal, N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds form helical chains of molecules extending parallel to the c axis that are connected by C—H...π(ring) interactions. A Hirshfeld surface analysis reveals that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are from H...H (55.2%), H...C/C...H (22.6%) and H...O/O...H (20.5%) interactions. The volume of the crystal voids and the percentage of free space were calculated to be 236.78 Å3 and 12.71%, respectively. Evaluation of the electrostatic, dispersion and total energy frameworks indicates that the stabilization is dominated by the nearly equal electrostatic and dispersion energy contributions. The DFT-optimized molecular structure at the B3LYP/6-311 G(d,p) level is compared with the experimentally determined molecular structure in the solid state. Moreover, the HOMO–LUMO behaviour was elucidated to determine the energy gap.
Understanding switching intentions between traditional banks and Internet-only banks among Generation X and Generation Z
Authors: Park Junsung , Yoo Joon Woo , Cho Youngju , Park Heejun
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the reasons for individuals switching from traditional banks to Internet-only banks and examine how switching intentions differ between Generation X and Generation Z. Notably, Generation Z, being digital natives, exhibits distinct characteristics compared to Generation X, who often referred to as digital immigrants. Given the technology-driven nature of Internet-only banks, a multi-group analysis between these two generations was conducted.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes Bansal’s push–pull–mooring model as a framework to analyze switching intention. The study collected survey data from 383 Korean participants, consisting of 198 participants from Generation Z and 185 participants from Generation X.

Findings

The findings indicate that low satisfaction and discomfort are factors that push people to leave traditional banks. Specifically, Generation Z shows a significantly higher inclination to leave traditional banks due to discomfort. On the other hand, relative advantage, compatibility, observability and trialability are factors that pull people to switch to Internet-only banks. Generation X is more likely to consider adopting Internet-only banks when compatibility is high and complexity is low.

Originality/value

This study is the first to explore unique motivators for Generation Z, such as their discomfort with interpersonal interactions in the retail banking sector. These findings challenge earlier research emphasizing human interaction’s importance in technology adoption, offering insights into their future adoption of contactless services.
Youth mentors’ experiences working with young people to support desistance from criminal behaviour within the community
Authors: Newton Abigail , Robson Megan , Johnson Darren
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Young offender mentoring programmes aim to support young people’s desistance from offending, but despite the importance, there remains limited exploration into mentor experiences of supporting the young people. This study aims to explore how a community-based mentoring intervention supports desistance in young offenders by understanding the mentor's experiences, with a specific reflective focus on facilitators and barriers to their work.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven mentors from Northumbria Coalition against Crime, a youth and community service. Interview transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis, with external auditing conducted by the research supervisor.

Findings

Two superordinate themes resulted: “Factors for engagement” and “Personal experiences”, with participant disclosures reflecting professional reward and a sense of success. This was interwoven with “burnout”, emotional investment and challenges linked to barriers to effectiveness. Challenges included the young people having external negative influences, multiple individuals involved in a person’s care and the barrier of in person activities during the coronavirus pandemic. The clinical importance of mentoring programmes, implications for future working practice and research limitations are considered.

Practical implications

The clinical importance of mentoring programmes, implications for future working practice and research limitations are considered.

Originality/value

These findings contribute to understanding mentors’ experiences of working with young people in the community, offering critical insight into the mentorship and wider service dynamics. Furthermore, it provides an inaugural evaluation of the Northumbria Coalition against Crime services.
Exploring the fear of missing out (FOMO) and customer bonds in service relationships
Authors: Harrison-Walker L. Jean , Mead James A.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Most research has investigated the fear of missing out (FOMO) in the context of online activities, often associated with negative personal outcomes such as fatigue and stress. However, given the increased desire to be informed and included associated with FOMO, organizations that can effectively meet these needs may develop or strengthen social and structural bonds, thereby turning short-term customers with FOMO into lifelong patrons. This study aims to examine the relationship between FOMO and favorable organizational outcomes as mediated by several constructs associated with the desire for information and inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted within the higher education sector of the service industry. FOMO served as the IV. The mediators represented context-specific aspects of campus involvement and inclusion. Organizational outcomes related to the long-term services relationship served as the DVs. The sample consisted of 435 students recruited from research pools at two southern universities in the USA. Exploratory factor analysis, OLS regression and the Hayes–Macro were used to examine the data.

Findings

The results demonstrate that FOMO is positively associated with students’ desires for information and inclusion (informal peer interaction, campus involvement, informal faculty interaction, campus information media use and a preference for in-person course scheduling), which are associated with the desirable university outcomes of satisfaction, connection and alumni donation/activity intentions.

Practical implications

If a university fosters unstructured time spent with faculty and peers, and promotes campus information media involvement, students with higher levels of FOMO are more likely to be satisfied, feel connected to the university and report intentions to donate time and money as alumni.

Originality/value

Prior research on FOMO is generally focused on internet and social media use; this study takes a broader perspective and identifies the effect of FOMO on a desire for information and inclusion within a novel context (a service environment). It also associates FOMO with favorable long-term service relationship outcomes that fortify social and structural bonds.
Analysis of wheel-rail adhesion redundancy considering the third-body medium on the rail surface
Authors: Tian Chun , Zhai Gengwei , Wu Mengling , Zhou Jiajun , Li Yaojie
Published: March 2024

Purpose

In response to the problem of insufficient traction/braking adhesion force caused by the existence of the third-body medium on the rail surface, this study aims to analyze the utilization of wheel-rail adhesion coefficient under different medium conditions and propose relevant measures for reasonable and optimized utilization of adhesion to ensure the traction/braking performance and operation safety of trains.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the PLS-160 wheel-rail adhesion simulation test rig, the study investigates the variation patterns of maximum utilized adhesion characteristics on the rail surface under different conditions of small creepage and large slip. Through statistical analysis of multiple sets of experimental data, the statistical distribution patterns of maximum utilized adhesion on the rail surface are obtained, and a method for analyzing wheel-rail adhesion redundancy based on normal distribution is proposed. The study analyzes the utilization of traction/braking adhesion, as well as adhesion redundancy, for different medium under small creepage and large slip conditions. Based on these findings, relevant measures for the reasonable and optimized utilization of adhesion are derived.

Findings

When the third-body medium exists on the rail surface, the train should adopt the low-level service braking to avoid the braking skidding by extending the braking distance. Compared with the current adhesion control strategy of small creepage, adopting appropriate strategies to control the train’s adhesion coefficient near the second peak point of the adhesion coefficient-slip ratio curve in large slip can effectively improve the traction/braking adhesion redundancy and the upper limit of adhesion utilization, thereby ensuring the traction/braking performance and operation safety of the train.

Originality/value

Most existing studies focus on the wheel-rail adhesion coefficient values and variation patterns under different medium conditions, without considering whether the rail surface with different medium can provide sufficient traction/braking utilized adhesion coefficient for the train. Therefore, there is a risk of traction overspeeding/braking skidding. This study analyzes whether the rail surface with different medium can provide sufficient traction/braking utilized adhesion coefficient for the train and whether there is redundancy. Based on these findings, relevant measures for the reasonable and optimized utilization of adhesion are derived to further ensure operation safety of the train.
Touch sensors used in Industry 4.0 to machines in the manufacturing industry on occupational health and safety
Authors: Ağseren Serkan , Şimşek Süleyman
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to prevent occupational accidents occurring in the manufacturing industry by means of touch sensors. When the occupational accidents occurring in the manufacturing industry around the world are examined, it is seen that approximately 88% of occupational accidents occur from “dangerous movement” and 10% from “dangerous situation.” Although some studies related to safety culture studies, safety studies in design and collective or personal protective measures have been started, they have not been brought to an adequate level. It is observed that studies on dangerous movements continue even in many developed countries. In this study, first of all, a literature study was conducted. Occupational accidents experienced in the manufacturing sector in Turkey have been examined. In line with these investigations, a prototype circuit protection system has been developed that can prevent accidents caused by dangerous movement. With the circuit, its applicability and effectiveness were measured by conducting experiments on different manufacturing machines. The prototype circuit applied in this paper was made based on the logic of protective measures made on sawstop machines used in different sectors. In the experimental study conducted, it was observed that in 30 experiments conducted with a prototype on ten separate manufacturing machines, it stopped the machines 26 times at minimum and 29 times at maximum. On average, when looking at the system efficiency values, it was seen that the system was 81.6% effective, and it was observed that positive results could be obtained when converted into a real product.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, their contribution to the prevention of work accidents caused by presses and rotary accents from machines used in the manufacturing industry by means of touch sensors used in Industry 4.0 was examined.

Findings

With Industry 4.0, different automation systems began to be switched in many areas and sectors. Studies have started on different sensors used also in Industry 4.0 in occupational health and safety studies, but it is seen that they have not been applied at an adequate level. It should be designed in such a way as to prevent errors or stop these errors in the studies performed. Today, sensors are produced at much lower costs than before. In addition, the constantly developing technology provides great convenience for these applications.

Research limitations/implications

This study was applied for press and cylinder machines from manufacturing machines. This study has been tried for machines producing a maximum pressure of 300 tons.

Originality/value

A prototype was designed. Trials were done on some machines by prototype. There could be improve and find different solutions for safety problems in the industry with this perspective.
What priorities for change are we missing in inclusion? Symphony of voices with participatory interviews
Authors: Fiuza Asorey María José , Sierra Martínez Silvia , Castro Pais María Dolores , Parrilla Latas Ángeles
Published: March 2024

An interpretative qualitative research project has been carried out in north‐west Spain (Galicia) with the aim of identifying the priorities which, in the opinion of the different agents involved, constitute the major demands of inclusion for an inclusive social and educational transformation. The data collection technique used was the open interview, through which 44 participants, belonging to different groups (headteachers, teacher‐tutors, specialists, counsellors, families, students, associations and politicians), expressed their experiences in relation to the subject of the study. Content analysis was carried out, through a double coding process combining the deductive and inductive approach, supported by the professional software MAXQDA22. The results reveal three main priorities as the main demands of inclusion in order to move towards inclusive social and educational change: (1) reaching collective agreements, (2) creating micro support networks and (3) strengthening teacher commitment.
Brain‐specific serine/threonine‐protein kinase 1 is a substrate of protein kinase C epsilon involved in sex‐specific ethanol and anxiety phenotypes
Authors: Dugan Michael P. , Maiya Rajani , Fleischer Caleb , Bajo Michal , Snyder Angela E. , Koduri Ashwin , Srinivasan Sathvik , Roberto Marisa , Messing Robert O.
Published: March 2024

Protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) regulates behavioural responses to ethanol and plays a role in anxiety‐like behaviour, but knowledge is limited on downstream substrates of PKCε that contribute to these behaviours. We recently identified brain‐specific serine/threonine‐protein kinase 1 (BRSK1) as a substrate of PKCε. Here, we test the hypothesis that BRSK1 mediates responses to ethanol and anxiety‐like behaviours that are also PKCε dependent. We used in vitro kinase assays to further validate BRSK1 as a substrate of PKCε and used Brsk1−/− mice to assess the role of BRSK1 in ethanol‐ and anxiety‐related behaviours and in physiological responses to ethanol. We found that BRSK1 is phosphorylated by PKCε at a residue identified in a chemical genetic screen of PKCε substrates in mouse brain. Like Prkce−/− mice, male and female Brsk1−/− mice were more sensitive than wild‐type to the acute sedative‐hypnotic effect of alcohol. Unlike Prkce−/− mice, Brsk1−/− mice responded like wild‐type to ataxic doses of ethanol. Although in Prkce−/− mice ethanol consumption and reward are reduced in both sexes, they were reduced only in female Brsk1−/− mice. Ex vivo slice electrophysiology revealed that ethanol‐induced facilitation of GABA release in the central amygdala was absent in male Brsk1−/− mice similar to findings in male Prkce−/− mice. Collectively, these results indicate that BRSK1 is a target of PKCε that mediates some PKCε‐dependent responses to ethanol in a sex‐specific manner and plays a role distinct from PKCε in anxiety‐like behaviour.
Archaeology of psychotropic substances: The problem of analytical detection of ayahuasca
Authors: Greco Enrico , Rivier Laurent , Samorini Giorgio , D'Arienzo Adriana
Published: March 2024

The primary objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges involved in detecting ancient ayahuasca, a traditional hallucinogenic drink from the Amazon region, which is prepared using Banisteriopsis caapi liana and other plants, by utilizing advanced analytical techniques. The presence of harmine and harmaline in Andean archaeological findings has led certain authors to speculate that the Banisteriopsis liana may have been the source plant responsible for their occurrence. Consequently, the utilization of this liana can be traced back to at least 500 CE. However, a combination of archaeological, ethnobotanical, biochemical and analytical chemistry considerations has rendered uncertain the true origins of the presence of harmine and harmaline in ancient mummies and artifacts. Thus, the archaeological evidence does not convincingly prove the ancient usage of ayahuasca.
Robot‐assisted low anterior resection in a patient with rectal cancer who had a urinary reservoir: A case report
Authors: Ito Ayaka , Omura Yusuke , Hiro Junichiro , Tsujimura Kazuki , Hattori Yutaka , Kamishima Megumu , Kobayashi Yosuke , Inaguma Gaku , Chong Yongchol , Masumori Koji , Otsuka Koki , Uyama Ichiro , Suda Koichi
Published: March 2024

Undergoing another surgery after a previous abdominal procedure can sometimes result in significant abdominal adhesions. We present a case of robot‐assisted low anterior resection in a patient with rectal cancer who had a urinary reservoir. A 65‐year‐old male patient underwent robot‐assisted total bladder resection and creation of a urinary reservoir for bladder cancer in 2013. He presented with melena. Thus, the findings revealed advanced low rectal cancer. The robot‐assisted low anterior resection was performed in 2022. Extensive adhesions were observed in the pelvic space. The indocyanine green function was appropriately used, and the robotic surgery was completed without injury to the urinary reservoir or major complications. The surgical time was 510 min, and the blood loss volume was 15 mL. The patient had been recurrence free for 12 months following the surgery. Robot‐assisted surgery can be beneficial for patients with rectal cancer with significant pelvic adhesions.
Challenging the dogma: Red blood cell‐directed autoimmunity as risk factor for red blood cell alloimmunisation after blood transfusion
Authors: Oud Josine A. , de Haas Masja , de Vooght Karen M. K. , van de Kerkhof Daan , Som Nel , Péquériaux Nathalie C. V. , Hudig Francisca , van der Bom Johanna G. , Evers Dorothea , Zwaginga Jaap Jan
Published: March 2024

Red blood cell autoimmunity and alloimmunity are potentially linked. Quantification of this association can tailor extensively matched red blood cell transfusions in patients with autoimmunity. Using an incident new‐user cohort comprising 47 285 previously non‐transfused, non‐alloimmunised patients, we compared transfusion‐induced red blood cell alloimmunisation incidences in direct antiglobulin test (DAT)‐positive and control patients. Additionally, we performed case–control analyses to handle potential confounding by clinical immunomodulators. Among (IgG and/or C3d) DAT‐positive patients (N = 380), cumulative red blood cell alloimmunisation incidences after 10 units transfused reached 4.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.5–8.2) versus 4.2% (CI 3.9–4.5, p = 0.88) in controls. In case–control analyses, alloimmunisation relative risks among DAT‐positive patients increased to 1.7 (CI 1.1–2.8). Additional adjustments for pre‐DAT transfusion exposure or the extent of Rh/K mismatching did not impact results. In conclusion, while patients with DAT positivity show an intrinsically increased alloimmune red blood cell response, their absolute risk is comparable to control patients due to counteracting co‐existing immunosuppressive conditions. Consequently, isolated DAT positivity in patients lacking overt haemolysis or complicated alloantibody testing does not seem to warrant extended matching strategies.
Factors that impact mental health help‐seeking in Australian adolescents: a life‐course and socioecological perspective
Authors: Guo Shuaijun , Goldfeld Sharon , Mundy Lisa
Published: March 2024

Background

Help‐seeking provides opportunities for early prevention and intervention of mental health problems. However, little is known about factors that impact help‐seeking from a life‐course and socioecological perspective. This study aimed to examine factors that impact adolescents' formal and informal help‐seeking in three population groups: the whole population, adolescents with depressive symptoms and adolescents with anxiety symptoms.

Methods

We drew on data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children birth cohort. Participants were followed from birth to 14–15 years. Based on previous literature and life‐course and socioecological models, we measured a range of factors at individual and family, interpersonal and community levels at three time points (0–1 year, 4–5 years and 12–13 years). Outcomes at 14–15 years were help‐seeking behaviours divided into three categories (formal help from health professionals, close informal help from friends and family members and broad informal help from other sources). Generalised linear models with logit‐binomial links were used.

Results

There were varying and common patterns of influencing factors across the three population groups and sources of help‐seeking. In the whole population, five common factors (female, previous depressive or anxiety symptoms, discrimination and bully victimisation) were associated with all three sources of help‐seeking. Among adolescents with depressive or anxiety symptoms, four common barriers to help‐seeking were male adolescents, speaking a language other than English, having poor relationships with peers and less social support.

Conclusion

Both intrinsic and extrinsic barriers exist for adolescents' mental health help‐seeking. There are priority groups of adolescents with mental health problems who are unlikely to seek support and warrant attention. There is a need for multisector collaborations to address barriers to mental health care and promote help‐seeking among adolescents.
Enhanced lipid biosynthesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma cancer‐associated fibroblasts contributes to tumor progression: Role of IL8/AKT/p‐ACLY axis
Authors: Liu Pan , Wang Yue , Li Xiang , Liu Zhenan , Sun Yunqing , Liu Hanzhe , Shao Zhe , Jiang Erhui , Zhou Xiaocheng , Shang Zhengjun
Published: March 2024

Lipid metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells has been proven to play a critical role in tumor initiation and development. However, lipid metabolism in cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) has rarely been studied, particularly in CAFs of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Additionally, the molecular mechanism by which tumor cells regulate lipid metabolism in fibroblasts is unclear. In this study, we found that phosphorylated ATP citrate lyase (p‐ACLY), a key lipid metabolic enzyme, was upregulated in OSCC CAFs. Compared to paracancerous normal fibroblasts, CAFs showed enhanced lipid synthesis, such as elevated cytosolic acetyl‐CoA level and accumulation of lipid droplets. Conversely, reduction of p‐ACLY level blocked this biological process. In addition, blocking lipid synthesis in CAFs or inhibiting fatty acid uptake by OSCC cells reduced the promotive effects of CAFs on OSCC cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. These findings suggested that CAFs are one of lipid sources required for OSCC progression. Mechanistically, AKT signaling activation was involved in the upregulation of p‐ACLY level and lipid synthesis in CAFs. Interleukin‐8 (IL8), an exocrine cytokine of OSCC cells, could activate AKT and then phosphorylate ACLY in fibroblasts. This study suggested that the IL8/AKT/p‐ACLY axis could be considered as a potential target for OSCC treatment.
Child and adolescent participation measurement tools and their translations: A systematic review
Authors: Jeong Yunwha , Kim Sujin , Lee Ji‐A , Kim Hyunkyung
Published: March 2024

Background

Numerous participation measurement tools targeting children and youth have been developed. Despite the translation of these tools into specific languages and cultures, the reliability and validity of the translated versions remain uncertain. To address this gap in knowledge, this study aims to identify tools for assessing the participation of children aged 5–18 years and to appraise the psychometric properties of their translated versions.

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched for peer‐reviewed studies published in English. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews guidelines was followed. Study titles and abstracts were screened by four independent reviewers. Data were extracted for both original and translated versions of eligible tools. Instrument quality assessments were performed using the Outcome Measures Rating Form Guidelines. Any discrepancies were resolved by consensus.

Results

Out of the 31 measurement tools examined, 18 tools had at least one translated version available, and among those original measurement tools, a total of 58 translated versions were identified. The most widely translated tool was the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Children (12 languages), and the most frequently translated language was Chinese (7 tools). Most translated versions verified internal consistency and content validity. Only three translated versions were verified inter‐rater reliability, and seven translated versions were tested criterion validity with the gold standard tools assessing participation of children (e.g., accelerometer, Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory and four 24‐h recalls). None of the translated versions were tested for intra‐rater reliability and responsiveness.

Conclusions

These findings can support the selection of psychometrically sound tools for children with disabilities, given their culture and language, and tool quality.
Global topology of human connectome is insensitive to early life environments – A prospective longitudinal study of the general population
Authors: Carozza Sofia , Holmes Joni , Akarca Danyal , Astle Duncan E.
Published: March 2024

The widely acknowledged detrimental impact of early adversity on child development has driven efforts to understand the underlying mechanisms that may mediate these effects within the developing brain. Recent efforts have begun to move beyond associating adversity with the morphology of individual brain regions towards determining if and how adversity might shape their interconnectivity. However, whether adversity effects a global shift in the organisation of whole‐brain networks remains unclear. In this study, we assessed this possibility using parental questionnaire and diffusion imaging data from The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC, N = 913), a prospective longitudinal study spanning more than 20 years. We tested whether a wide range of adversities—including experiences of abuse, domestic violence, physical and emotional cruelty, poverty, neglect, and parental separation—measured by questionnaire within the first seven years of life were significantly associated with the tractography‐derived connectome in young adulthood. We tested this across multiple measures of organisation and using a computational model that simulated the wiring economy of the brain. We found no significant relationships between early exposure to any form of adversity and the global organisation of the structural connectome in young adulthood. We did detect local differences in the medial prefrontal cortex, as well as an association between weaker brain wiring constraints and greater externalising behaviour in adolescence. Our results indicate that further efforts are necessary to delimit the magnitude and functional implications of adversity‐related differences in connectomic organization.

Research Highlights

Diverse prospective measures of the early‐life environment do not predict the organisation of the DTI tractography‐derived connectome in young adulthood

Wiring economy of the connectome is weakly associated with externalising in adolescence, but not internalising or cognitive ability

Further work is needed to establish the scope and significance of global adversity‐related differences in the structural connectome
Influence of different immediate dentin sealing strategies on bond strength of indirect resin nanoceramic restorations
Authors: Tahoun Fatma‐Alzahraa Mohamed , Kehela Hany Abdel‐Ghafar , Nasr Dina Mohamed
Published: March 2024

In this study, we evaluated the effect of four different strategies for bonding a CAD/CAM resin nanoceramic restoration (Lava Ultimate, 3M) to the dentin surface using a universal adhesive (Scotch Bond Universal, 3M) and adhesive resin cement (RelyX Ultimate, 3M) on the shear bond strength (SBS) and failure mode. The strategies comprised: (i) immediate sealing, immediate bonding; (ii) immediate sealing, bonding after 2 weeks with provisional restoration; (iii) immediate sealing with flowable resin composite reinforcement and bonding after 2 weeks with provisional restoration; and (iv) no immediate sealing, and bonding after 2 weeks with provisional restoration. After bonding, all the specimens were thermocycled, shear tests were performed using a universal testing machine, and failure modes were determined using stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscopy. The highest mean SBS was recorded with immediate sealing, immediate bonding strategy. Most adhesive failures with exposed dentinal tubules were noted in specimens exposed to bonding after 2 weeks with no immediate sealing, which was associated with the lowest SBS. Mixed failures predominated in all immediate dentin sealing groups. Immediate sealing with universal adhesives improves SBS, particularly in the single‐visit approach, which has shown significantly better performance, whereas the provisional phase has a negative effect.
IKZF1 rs4132601 and rs11978267 gene polymorphisms and paediatric systemic lupus erythematosus; relation to lupus nephritis
Authors: Mosaad Youssef M. , Hammad Ayman , Shouma Amany , Darwish Mohamed , Hammad Enas M. , Sallam Rehab AR. , ELTantawi Noha T. , Abdel‐Azeem Heba A. , Youssef Laila F. , El‐Khier Noha T. Abou , Fawzy Iman M. , Alwasify Mona
Published: March 2024

The demographic factors, the socioeconomic status and the ethnicity of populations are important players that determine the incidence, the prevalence and the spectrum of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) clinical presentations in different populations. Therefore, the purpose of the present research was to investigate the possible association between the Ikaros family zinc finger 1 gene (IKZF1) rs4132601 and rs11978267 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and SLE susceptibility and clinical presentations including lupus nephritis (LN) among Egyptian paediatric patients. After DNA extraction from Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) blood samples for 104 paediatric SLE (pSLE) patients and 286 healthy controls, the investigated SNPs (IKZF1 rs4132601 and rs11978267) were genotyped using TaqMan‐Real‐time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The G allele, GG and GT genotypes of IKZF1 rs4132601 were associated with pSLE (pc<.001, OR 2.97, 3.2 and 2.25, respectively). The GG and GA haplotype were more frequent in pSLE patients than other haplotypes (pc<.001, OR 3.47 and pc = .004, OR = 2.8, respectively). The studied SNPs have no impact on the distinctive features of pSLE. The rs4132601 TG genotype was significantly associated with proliferative LN (pc = .03) The IKZF1 rs4132601 can be considered a risk factor for SLE in the cohort of Egyptian children. The TG genotype of the IKZF1 rs4132601 may predispose to proliferative LN.
It feels like lupus: accessible science for the low‐vision community on immune system dysfunction in lupus
Authors: Bennett Taylah Jane
Published: March 2024

Science communication is often confined to spoken, written or graphical form, neglecting the integration of other tools that would open inclusive scientific dialog to the low‐vision community. To address this barrier, members from the Monash Rheumatology clinical and laboratory research groups formed a Lupus Sensory Science team to create a breakout room at the 2023 Monash Sensory Science Exhibit on Autoimmunity. Our goal was to develop multimodal displays and artworks to engage participants with blindness and low vision with the immunological underpinnings of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here I describe how we created several stations using a combination of tactile posters and models to communicate disease manifestations and immune system dysregulation in SLE. I reflect on how participants keenly engaged with our artworks, asking thoughtful questions that stimulated interesting discussions about treatment options in SLE. In addition, I analyze how our exhibit could be improved to further increase accessibility for the low‐vision community. Overall, we learned a lot about how to be inclusive in scientific communication methods and we will strive to continue to engage all members of our community in scientific discussion.
Democrats abroad: What motivates core activists to engage in political transnationalism?
Authors: von Klekowski von Koppenfels Amanda
Published: March 2024

Research into transnational political engagement of non‐resident citizens has largely focused on the Global South and less on the Global North. This article focuses on non‐resident United States citizens, or overseas Americans, asking what motivates them to become politically engaged. This article contributes insights to an insufficiently explored case. Drawing from 14 semi‐structured interviews with strongly politically engaged US citizens living abroad, this article shows that they engage in political activism for many of the same reasons as individuals from other countries, as well as ones which may be unique to the US case. Key factors include mobilising to change things at home, the role of the United States in the world, civic duty, fulfilling work and reactive transnationalism. The article concludes with policy recommendations and sets the scene for future comparative research, both within the Global North and between Global North and Global South non‐resident citizen groups.
The effect of settings, educational level and tools on computer‐assisted pronunciation training: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Almusharraf Asma , Mahdi Hassan Saleh , Al‐Nofaie Haifa , Aljasser Amal
Published: March 2024

Background study

Computer‐assisted pronunciation training (CAPT) has emerged as an important resource for second language (L2) pronunciation learning. CAPT offers diverse opportunities for learners to master L2 pronunciation with the help of authentic learning activities in multiple contexts.

Objectives

This study presents a comprehensive overview to examine the overall effect of using a computer in learning pronunciation in multiple settings and diverse educational levels with the assistance of different tools.

Methods

The meta‐analysis consisted of 31 primary studies that reported results obtained from experimental vs. control group designs. These studies reported 42 effect sizes in the results.

Results

The findings of the meta‐analysis indicated that using CAPT in learning pronunciation had an overall medium effect size. Similarly, the results showed that using CAPT inside the classrooms had a large effect size. The results also showed that CAPT had a large effect size when used in schools and other formal learning contexts, such as language institutes. CAPT had a medium effect when it was used in universities. The results also showed that using videos for learning pronunciation had a large effect size while other tools had a medium effect size.

Conclusions

The study findings contribute to understanding the overall effect of CAPT and offer implications for educators and practitioners involved in designing effective instructional strategies for enhancing L2 pronunciation skills.
How a general vulnerability for psychopathology during adolescence manifests in young adults' daily lives
Authors: Groen Robin N. , Wigman Johanna T. W. , Vos Melissa , Schreuder Marieke J. , Wichers Marieke , Hartman Catharina A.
Published: March 2024

Background

There is widespread interest in the general factor of psychopathology or ‘p factor’, which has been proposed to reflect vulnerability to psychopathology. We examined to what extent this ‘vulnerability’ is associated with dysregulations in affect and behavior that occur in daily life. As such we hoped to provide an account of how this vulnerability may be maintained.

Methods

We used data from the Tracking Adolescents' Individual Lives Survey (TRAILS; N = 2,772) collected at ages 11, 14, 16, 19, and 22 years to fit a bifactor model with a general psychopathology factor, alongside internalizing, externalizing (EXT), attention‐deficit/hyperactivity, and autism spectrum problem domains. Following the fifth TRAILS assessment, a subsample of participants (n = 133, age = 22.6, 43% women) with heightened risk for psychopathology completed a 6‐month daily diary protocol with one assessment each day. Using a dynamic structural equation approach, we examined to what extent mean intensity, variability, inertia, and within‐day co‐occurrence of EXT, anxious–tense, and depressed–withdrawn affects and behaviors were associated with general factor scores.

Results

Unexpectedly, higher general factor scores were not associated with higher mean intensity of any of the three types of daily negative affects and behaviors, but were associated with higher variability and less carryover (inertia) EXT affects and behaviors.

Conclusions

We showed that individual differences in general factor scores do not manifest as differences in average levels of daily affects and behaviors, but instead were related to a type of EXT reactivity to the environment. Future research is necessary to investigate whether reactive irritable moods may be involved in or signal vulnerability sustained psychopathology.
Risk of myocarditis after three doses of COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines in the United States, 2020–2022: A self‐controlled case series study
Authors: Lai Daoyuan , Lim Dickson , Lu Junfeng , Wang Han , Huang Tao , Zhang Yan Dora
Published: March 2024

Aim

Myocarditis is a recognized safety concern following COVID‐19 mRNA vaccination. However, there is limited research quantifying the risk associated with the third dose or comparing the risk between the three doses. The US Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is a passive surveillance system that monitors rare adverse events after US‐licensed vaccination. However, studies analyzing VAERS data have often faced criticism for underreporting cases and lacking a control group to assess the increase in baseline risk.

Methods

The temporal association between myocarditis onset and COVID‐19 vaccination was studied. To overcome limitations, a novel modified self‐controlled case series method was employed, explicitly modeling the case reporting process in VAERS data.

Results

We found an increased risk of myocarditis during the 1‐ to 3‐day period following the second and third doses of both the BNT162b2 vaccine and the mRNA‐1273 vaccine. Following the second dose, the relative incidence (RI) was 4.89 (95% confidence interval (CI), 2.39–10.08) for the BNT162b2 vaccine and 2.86 (95% CI: 1.18–7.03) for the mRNA‐1273 vaccine. Similarly, following the third dose, the RI was 9.04 (95% CI: 2.79–40.99) for the BNT162b2 vaccine and 4.71 (95% CI: 1.42–19.09) for the mRNA‐1273 vaccine. No significant increase in risk was observed during other periods. Notably, our analysis also identified a similar increased risk of myocarditis among individuals aged below 30.

Conclusions

These findings raise safety concerns regarding COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines, provide insights into the quantification of myocarditis risk at different postvaccination periods, and offer a novel approach to interpreting passive surveillance system data.
Preheating and “snow‐plow” composite application technique affect double bond conversion but not bond strength to dentine
Authors: Miletic Vesna , Komlenic Vojislav , Bajuk‐Bogdanović Danica , Stasic Jovana , Petrovic Violeta , Savic‐Stankovic Tatjana
Published: March 2024

Objective

To measure degree of conversion (DC) of a flowable composite, microtensile bond strength (MTBS) to dentine in the snow‐plow technique with/without preheating and temperature in the preheated composite.

Materials and Methods

For DC, snow‐plow specimens of Filtek Ultimate Flowable (Flow) and Filtek Bulk Fill (Bulk) (3M) were prepared by light‐curing composites simultaneously in standardized molds while in control groups light‐curing was separate. DC of Flow was measured using micro‐Raman spectroscopy. For MTBS, specimens were prepared on dentine of human extracted molars by simultaneous (snow‐plow) or separate (control) light‐curing. MTBS was measured using a universal testing machine after 24 h and 6 months. Data were analyzed using ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc (α = 0.05).

Results

Increased curing time significantly increased DC in snow‐plow from 13.4% ± 11.6% (10 s) to 31.8% ± 4.4% (40 s) albeit significantly lower than controls (p < 0.05). Preheated Bulk improved conversion in snow‐plow (44.3% ± 1.7%) and control (50.5% ± 2.6%) (p < 0.05). No significant differences occurred in MTBS between groups (p > 0.05). MTBS values ranged between 66.7 ± 8.4 MPa (snow‐plow group_21°C_baseline) and 54.1 ± 15.8 MPa (control_21°C_long‐term). Temperature in the preheated Bulk dropped to ~38°C after 30 s.

Conclusions

Snow‐plow technique, irrespective of preheating, resulted in lower DC of Flow than separate light‐curing of composite increments. Snow‐plow, irrespective of preheating, resulted in similar initial and long‐term MTBS to dentine.

Clinical Significance

Clinicians with preference for flowable composite liners in Class II restorations should be aware that the snow‐plow technique of simultaneous light‐curing of flowable and bulk‐fill composite increments affects monomer‐to‐polymer conversion, albeit no effect on immediate, and long‐term bonding to dentine was detected. Preheating sculptable bulk‐fill composite improves conversion of the flowable liner in the snow‐plow technique but has no detectable effect on bond strength to dentine.
Supporting technology access for older adults through in‐home, intergenerational involvement: The case for ethnographic methods and student service‐learning courses
Authors: Allison Theresa A. , Stephens Caroline E. , Kotwal Ashwin A.
Published: March 2024

This editorial comments on the article by Hawley et al. in this issue.