bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of plasma inflammatory and angiogenic mediators for predicting spontaneous preterm delivery, intraamniotic infection/inflammation, and composite neonatal morbidity/mortality in women with early preterm premature rupture of membranes
Authors: Kim Hyeon Ji , Park Kyo Hoon , Joo Eunwook , Lee Min Jung , Choi Bo Young
Published: January 2024

Problem

To assess the potential of five inflammatory and six angiogenic/antiangiogenic plasma proteins for predicting imminent spontaneous preterm delivery (SPTD; ≤14 days of sampling), microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity and/or intraamniotic inflammation (MIAC/IAI), and composite neonatal morbidity and mortality (CNMM) in women with early preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Methods of Study

This retrospective cohort study included 76 singleton pregnant women with early PPROM (23–30 weeks). Amniotic fluid obtained via amniocentesis was cultured for microorganism detection and assayed for interleukin‐6 to define IAI (≥2.6 ng/mL). Plasma C4a, endoglin, endostatin, IGFBP‐1, IGFBP‐2, MMP‐9, PlGF, S100A8, S100A9, S100 A8/A9, and VEGFR‐1 levels were determined using ELISA.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed significant associations between (i) high levels of plasma S100A8/A9, SPTD ≤14 days after sampling, and shorter sampling‐to‐delivery intervals; (ii) elevated plasma MMP‐9, S100A9, and S100A8/A9 levels and MIAC/IAI, and (iii) decreased plasma endoglin levels and increased CNMM risk, while adjusting for gestational age at sampling (or delivery) and tocolytic use. The area under the curves of the aforementioned proteins ranged from 0.655 to 0.731 for each outcome. Notably, the SPTD risk increased significantly with increasing plasma S100A8/A9 levels (P for trend < .05).

Conclusions

Plasma S100A8/A9, MMP‐9, S100A9, and endoglin may represent valuable biomarkers associated with SPTD, MIAC/IAI, and CNMM in women with early PPROM. Owing to their less invasive nature, repeatability, and fair‐to‐moderate diagnostic accuracy, these biomarkers may contribute to risk stratification of PPROM‐related complications in the clinical setting.
Robotic surgery education in Australia and New Zealand: primetime for a curriculum
Authors: Harrison William , Munien Kale , Desai Devang
Published: January 2024

Background

Globally, robotic surgery (RS) has witnessed remarkable growth, yet Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) lack dedicated RS training programs, creating a workforce gap. This narrative review synthesises international research to explore trends and challenges in robotic education.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive literature review, searching PubMed, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE using keywords like ‘robotic surgery’, ‘surgical education’, ‘robotic surgery training’, and ‘robotic surgery curriculum’. We selected studies contributing to understanding current curricula, training tools, and issues in robotic education, utilising the international experience and how it might apply to the ANZ context.

Results

RS in ANZ has grown significantly over two decades, but formal curricula for trainees are absent. North America and Europe employ diverse training tools and curricula. Barriers include cost, access, time constraints, equipment complexity, changing training environments, and competition from emerging robotic surgical systems. Balancing the curriculum's demands with trainees' existing requirements is essential.

Conclusion

Developing a tailored RS curriculum within ANZ's surgical training is crucial for RS to become the primary surgical approach in the future. By working towards a national curriculum we can prepare skilled trainees in robotics to meet the rising demand. The most significant barrier is the lack of robotics in public hospital where trainees are based. This curriculum should encompass online teaching modules, bedside assistance, surgical simulation, dual console mentoring, and primary operator experience.
Sense of belonging, academic self‐efficacy and hardiness: Their impacts on student engagement in distance learning courses
Authors: Yi Suping , Zhang Yanyan , Lu Yefeng , Shadiev Rustam
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate how postgraduate engagement is affected by the sense of belonging, academic self‐efficacy and academic hardiness. The validated self‐reported scales were used to survey 308 postgraduate students in Mainland China who had taken distance learning courses. The proposed research model exhibited high predictive performance, confirming the established 10 hypotheses. The results indicated that sense of belonging positively and significantly influenced academic self‐efficacy, academic hardiness and postgraduates' emotional engagement. Academic self‐efficacy and academic hardiness had a positive and statistically significant impact on postgraduates' cognitive, emotional and behavioural engagement. Therefore, sense of belonging directly impacted postgraduates' emotional engagement and indirectly impacted postgraduates' cognitive and behavioural engagement. We also found a significant mediation effect of academic self‐efficacy and academic hardiness in distance learning courses. Overall, our proposed research model revealed the influence mechanism of sense of belonging, academic self‐efficacy and academic hardiness in postgraduate engagement in distance learning courses. These factors need to be considered when designing and implementing distance learning courses, teachers and researchers need to be aware of these interdependencies in order to maximize learning effects in the distance learning environment.
The short‐term macroeconomic impact of populism: A case study of Poland
Authors: Brzezinski Michal , Sałach‐Dróżdż Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

Recent research shows that populist governments in general depress countries' economic growth and fail to improve income distribution. We study the short‐term macroeconomic consequences of populist policies implemented in Poland since 2015. Using the augmented synthetic control method, we find that the populists boosted the gross domestic product per capita by almost 8% between 2016 and 2019. We do not find any effect of populism on inflation and estimate only small labor market impacts. The populists improved tax revenue collection and reduced public debt. A generous child benefit program and other redistributive policies introduced by the populists significantly reduced overall poverty and almost eradicated absolute child poverty. Our results suggest that antiestablishment populists may have macroeconomic viability, at least in the short term.
Views and preferences of food‐insecure pregnant women regarding food insecurity screening and support within routine antenatal care
Authors: Zinga Julia , van der Pligt Paige , McKay Fiona H.
Published: January 2024

Background

Food insecurity is a public health concern that has profound impact on physical and mental health, and on social well‐being. Pregnancy is a period in which food insecurity is likely to be particularly deleterious, due to the serious impact on both mother and child. Food insecurity is not routinely screened in antenatal healthcare settings, and the preferences of pregnant women regarding food insecurity screening and support are poorly understood. This study aimed to determine the views and preferences of food‐insecure pregnant women regarding food insecurity screening and support within antenatal healthcare.

Methods

This qualitative descriptive study used face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews, conducted in February and March 2023, to gain the views of purposively sampled food‐insecure, pregnant women in Melbourne, Australia. Food insecurity was evidenced by an affirmative response to at least one of three assessment items in a screening questionnaire. Qualitative content analysis was conducted to summarise the views and preferences of women.

Results

Nineteen food‐insecure pregnant women were interviewed. Three themes were identified: (1) acceptability of being screened for food insecurity, (2) concerns about the consequences of disclosure and (3) preferences regarding food insecurity screening and supportive strategies that could be offered within an antenatal healthcare setting.

Conclusion

Women were accepting of food insecurity screening being conducted within routine healthcare. Women identified potential benefits of routine screening, such as feeling supported by their clinician to have a healthy pregnancy and less pressure to voluntarily ask for food assistance. Women gave suggestions for the implementation of food insecurity screening to optimise their healthcare experience, maintain their dignity and feel able to disclose within a safe and caring environment. These results indicate that food insecurity screening in the antenatal setting is likely to have support from pregnant women and is urgently needed in the interest of promoting optimal nutrition for women and children.

Patient Contribution

Pregnant women with lived experience of food insecurity were purposively sampled to obtain their insights regarding screening and support within a pregnancy healthcare setting. Member‐checking occurred following data collection, whereby all participants were offered the opportunity to review their interview transcript to ensure trustworthiness of the data.
The acceptability of, and informational needs related to, self‐collection cervical screening among women of Indian descent living in Victoria, Australia: A qualitative study
Authors: Machado Colling Ana , Creagh Nicola S. , Gogia Neha , Wyatt Kerryann , Zammit Claire , Brotherton Julia M. L. , Nightingale Claire E.
Published: January 2024

Background

In July 2022, self‐collection became universally available as part of Australia's National Cervical Screening Program. This change aims to address screening inequities experienced among underscreened populations, including women of Indian descent. This study explored experiences of cervical screening, alongside the acceptability of self‐collection, among women of Indian descent living in Victoria, Australia. We also aimed to articulate the informational needs to promote self‐collection among this population.

Methods

Five focus group discussions with 39 women living in Victoria were conducted in English (n = 3) and Punjabi (n = 2). Transcripts were thematically analysed, as informed by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability.

Results

Women were motivated by the choice to self‐collect, perceiving the ability to maintain modesty and greater autonomy as key enablers. Healthcare practitioners were seen as central in supporting patient‐centred models of care. Perceived barriers to self‐collection included concerns around its accuracy and women's confidence in collecting their own sample. Widespread dissemination of culturally tailored promotion strategies communicating concepts such as 'privacy' and 'accuracy' were suggested by women to promote self‐collection.

Conclusion

Self‐collection was highly acceptable among women of Indian descent, particularly when assured of its accuracy, and sociocultural norms and previous screening experiences are considered. This study highlights the huge potential that self‐collection can play in increasing equity in Australia's cervical screening programme.

Patient or Public Contribution

Members of the public were involved in focus group discussions. Findings were summarised and disseminated via a poster. A bicultural worker was involved in all stages of the research.
‘We need more support and doctors that understand the process of tapering …’: A content analysis of free‐text responses to a questionnaire on discontinuing long‐term benzodiazepine receptor agonist use
Authors: Lynch Tom , Ryan Cristín , Huff Christy , Foster D. E. , Cadogan Cathal
Published: January 2024

Background

Many individuals worldwide continue to take benzodiazepine receptor agonists (BZRAs) long term (≥3 months). The aim of this study was to conduct a content analysis of the views and experiences of discontinuing long‐term BZRA use as documented in the free‐text responses of respondents to an online questionnaire examining mediators of behaviour change relating to the discontinuation of long‐term BZRA use.

Design

The questionnaire was disseminated via online BZRA support groups to community‐based adults with either current or previous experience of long‐term BZRA use. The four free‐text questions focused on (1) barriers and (2) facilitators to discontinuing BZRA use; (3) additional supports required to discontinue BZRA use; and (4) additional comments regarding BZRA use. Response data were analysed using summative content analysis.

Results

The most commonly reported barrier to BZRA discontinuation related to the consequences of stopping the medication, including withdrawal symptoms and the possibility of return of the original symptoms. The most common facilitator that respondents reported would help them in discontinuing BZRA use was support, primarily from medical professionals. Many respondents reported having been harmed or negatively affected in some way because of BZRA use. Several respondents expressed regret over ever taking BZRAs and/or reported that, with the benefit of hindsight, they should never have taken BZRAs in the first instance.

Conclusion

The findings highlight the range of barriers faced by those attempting BZRA discontinuation and the importance of additional supports. Holistic and person‐centred approaches are needed to support discontinuation of long‐term BZRA use that considers an individual's personal circumstances and wider social context.

Patient or Public Contribution

‘Experts by experience’ with previous experience of long‐term BZRA use were involved in developing the questionnaire and writing the manuscript as collaborators. Individuals with lived experience of taking BZRAs completed the questionnaire.
The meaning of the recovery process and its stages for people attending a mental health day hospital: A qualitative study
Authors: Ventosa‐Ruiz Ana , Moreno‐Poyato Antonio R. , Lluch‐Canut Teresa , Feria‐Raposo Isabel , Puig‐Llobet Montserrat
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This study sought to explore the meaning of the recovery process and its stages from the perspective of people attending a mental health day hospital.

Methods

A descriptive exploratory qualitative study was carried out. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with people attending a mental health day hospital. The data were analysed deductively by means of content analysis.

Results

The participants described the recovery process as a process based on three pillars; the attitude towards recovery, hardship, and the effort required throughout the process. Regarding the stages of recovery, for the participants in the first stage of the process (Moratorium), the search for hope was the most important element. In the second stage (Awareness), the reestablishment of their identity, through the acceptance of the consequences derived from the mental health problem, together with being able to feel full and fulfilled, were the most outstanding elements. In the third stage (Preparation), participants highlighted the search for meaning in life, facing their fears and the process with an open mind. Finally, the last two stages (Rebuilding and Growth) were related to taking responsibility and empowerment for recovery.

Conclusions

The results of this study provide insight into the perception of the recovery process and its stages in people attending a mental health day hospital. These findings may contribute to aligning the nurse–patient perspective, helping nurses to understand the key elements of patients according to their stage of recovery, and thus be able to subsequently individualise interventions.

Patient and Public Contribution

This study was based on interviews with 15 patients receiving treatment at an adult mental health day hospital. This study would not have been possible without their participation.
Associations of TACSTD2/TROP2 and NECTIN‐4/NECTIN‐4 with molecular subtypes, PD‐L1 expression, and FGFR3 mutational status in two advanced urothelial bladder cancer cohorts
Authors: Bahlinger Veronika , Branz Annalena , Strissel Pamela L , Strick Reiner , Lange Fabienne , Geppert Carol I , Klümper Niklas , Hölzel Michael , Wach Sven , Taubert Helge , Sikic Danijel , Wullich Bernd , Angeloni Miriam , Ferrazzi Fulvia , Diehl Lauri , Kovalenko Maria , Elboudwarej Emon , Jürgensmeier Juliane M , Hartmann Arndt , Eckstein Markus
Published: January 2024

Aims

Treatment options for advanced urothelial carcinoma (aUC) rapidly evolved: besides immunomodulative therapeutic options and inhibitors targeting Fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) alterations, two new antibody‐drug conjugates (ADC), sacituzumab govitecan (SG) and enfortumab vedotin (EV), have been approved. However, little is known about the associations of specific aUC properties and the surface target expression of TROP2 and NECTIN‐4. Our aim was to characterize associations of TACSTD2/TROP2 and NECTIN‐4/NECTIN‐4 protein and gene expression with morphomolecular and clinicopathological characteristics of aUC in two large independent cohorts.

Methods and results

The TCGA BLCA (n = 405) and the CCC‐EMN (n = 247) cohorts were retrospectively analysed. TROP2/TACSTD2 and NECTIN‐4/NECTIN‐4 are highly expressed at the protein and transcript level in aUC, and their expression status did not correlate with patient survival in both cohorts. NECTIN‐4/NECTIN‐4 expression was higher in luminal tumours and reduced in squamous aUCs. NECTIN‐4 was negative in 10.6% of samples, and 18.4% of samples had low expression (H‐score <15). The TROP2 negativity rate amounted to 6.5%. TACSTD2 and NECTIN‐4 expression was reduced in neuroendocrine‐like and/or protein‐based double‐negative tumours. TROP2‐ and NECTIN‐4‐negative tumours included one sarcomatoid and four neuroendocrine aUC. FGFR3 alterations and PD‐L1 expression on tumour and immune cells did not associate with TROP2 or NECTIN‐4 expression.

Conclusions

TACSTD2/TROP2 and NECTIN‐4/NECTIN‐4 are widely expressed in aUC, independent of FGFR3 alterations or PD‐L1 expression, thus representing a suitable target for ADC treatment in the majority of aUC. The expression loss was associated with aggressive morphomolecular aUC subtypes, i.e. neuroendocrine(‐like) and sarcomatoid aUC.
Employee well‐being outcomes from individual‐level mental health interventions: Cross‐sectional evidence from the United Kingdom
Authors: Fleming William J.
Published: January 2024

Initiatives that promote mental well‐being are formally recommended for all British workers, with many practices targeting change in individual workers' resources. While the existing evidence is generally positive about these interventions, disagreement is increasing because of concerns that individual‐level interventions do not engage with working conditions. Contributing to the debate, this article uses survey data (N = 46,336 workers in 233 organisations) to compare participants and nonparticipants in a range of common individual‐level well‐being interventions, including resilience training, mindfulness and well‐being apps. Across multiple subjective well‐being indicators, participants appear no better off. Results are interpreted through the job demands–resources theory and selection bias in cross‐sectional results is interrogated. Overall, results suggest interventions are not providing additional or appropriate resources in response to job demands.
Disclosure specificity: Evidence from book‐to‐bill ratios
Authors: Chapman Kimball , Kaplan Zachary , Potter Chase
Published: January 2024

We investigate whether managers vary disclosure specificity strategically, by examining how the voluntary disclosure of a key performance indicator, the book‐to‐bill (BTB) ratio (the ratio of orders received to orders billed), varies with future firm performance. Consistent with theoretical predictions from prior research, we find that managers are more likely to provide precise BTB disclosures when the news is positive, while offering less precise disclosures when the news is negative. We find that managers strategically vary specificity more when valuation incentives are higher and monitoring is lower. We find that the tone of qualitative descriptions is informative, with or without precise disclosure, inconsistent with the predictions of strategic withholding models. Our results are consistent with persuasion models in which managers vary the specificity of news strategically, to affect the weight stakeholders place on the signal.
New diagnostic criteria (2023) for slowly progressive type 1 diabetes (SPIDDM): Report from Committee on Type 1 Diabetes of the Japan Diabetes Society (English version)
Authors: Shimada Akira , Kawasaki Eiji , Abiru Norio , Awata Takuya , Oikawa Yoichi , Osawa Haruhiko , Kajio Hiroshi , Kozawa Junji , Takahashi Kazuma , Chujo Daisuke , Noso Shinsuke , Fukui Tomoyasu , Miura Junnosuke , Yasuda Kazuki , Yasuda Hisafumi , Imagawa Akihisa , Ikegami Hiroshi
Published: January 2024

The diagnostic criteria for slowly progressive type 1 diabetes (slowly progressive insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus; SPIDDM) have been revised by the Committee on Type 1 Diabetes of the Japan Diabetes Society. All of the following three criteria must be met for ‘a definitive diagnosis of SPIDDM’: (1) presence of anti‐islet autoantibodies at some point in time during the disease course; (2) absence of ketosis or ketoacidosis at the diagnosis of diabetes with no requirement for insulin treatment to correct hyperglycemia immediately after diagnosis in principle; and (3) gradual decrease of insulin secretion over time, with insulin treatment required at more than 3 months after diagnosis, and the presence of severe endogenous insulin deficiency (fasting serum C‐peptide immunoreactivity <0.6 ng/mL) at the last observed point in time. When a patient fulfills only (1) and (2), but not (3), he/she is diagnosed with ‘SPIDDM (probable)’ because the diabetes is non‐insulin‐dependent type.
Expectations, beliefs, and perceptions in the modern economy: An overview
Authors: Claus Edda , Dedewanou F. Antoine
Published: January 2024

Expectations matter in dynamic models where decisions in one period have implications for outcomes in subsequent periods. Rational expectations were once the dominant assumption but its popularity is waning. Human decision‐making deviates from rationality suggesting important influences of perceptions and beliefs on decision‐making. The articles in this special issue provide up‐to‐date reviews of the importance of expectations, beliefs, and perceptions including the role of social media in shaping them.
Risk factors for antibiotic therapy failure in women with tubo‐ovarian abscess: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kinay Tugba , Akay Arife , Aksoy Munevver , Celik Balkan Fatma , Engin Ustun Yaprak
Published: January 2024

Aim

Medical therapy with antibiotics only and surgical drainage are the treatment options of tubo‐ovarian abscess (TOA). It is not yet known exactly which cases need surgical treatment. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the risk factors leading antibiotic therapy failure in women with TOA.

Methods

We searched the following databases from inception to June 1, 2022: PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, The Cochrane Library, and Scopus. We also searched reference lists of eligible articles and related review articles. The observational cohort, cross‐sectional, and case–control studies were included in the meta‐analysis. At least four review authors independently selected eligible articles, assessed risk of bias, and extracted data. The random effect model was used in the meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 29 studies, including 2890 women, were included in the study. The age, abscess size, history of intrauterine device use, postmenopausal status, history of diabetes mellitus, fever, white blood cell count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‐reactive protein level, and history of pelvic inflammatory disease were found as significant risk factors for antibiotic therapy failure in women with TOA.

Conclusions

The findings of this study clarified the risk factors for antibiotic therapy failure in women with TOA.
Association between household food insecurity and stunting in children aged 0−59 months: Systematic review and meta‐analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Patriota Érika S. O. , Abrantes Lívia C. S. , Figueiredo Ana C. M. G. , Pizato Nathalia , Buccini Gabriela , Gonçalves Vivian S. S.
Published: January 2024

Household food insecurity (HFI) during childhood is associated with poor dietary diversity and malnutrition, placing children's growth at risk. Children with growth disorders, such as stunting, are more likely to have poor cognition and educational performance, lower economic status, and an increased risk of nutrition‐related chronic diseases in adulthood. Our study aimed to systematically review and conduct a meta‐analysis of cohort studies investigating the association between HFI and stunting in children aged 0−59 months. Peer‐reviewed and grey literature were systematically searched in electronic databases with no language or date restrictions. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies for pre‐established eligibility criteria. Data were extracted using a standard protocol. Random‐effects meta‐analysis models were used, and I2 > 40% indicated high heterogeneity across studies. We used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system to assess the quality of the evidence. Nine cohort studies comprising 46,300 children were included. Approximately 80% (n = 7) of the studies found a positive association between HFI and stunting. Pooled odds ratio was 1.00 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87−1.14; I2: 76.14%). The pooled hazard ratio between moderate and severe HFI and stunting was 1.02 (95% CI: 0.84−1.22; I2: 85.96%). Due to high heterogeneity, the quality of evidence was very low. Individual studies showed an association between HFI and stunting in children aged 0–59 months; however, this association was not sustained in the pooled analysis, possibly because of high heterogeneity across studies.
Revisiting the Galant in Gjerdingenian Schemata
Authors: Yu Hainian
Published: January 2024

Robert Gjerdingen's schema theory focuses the long‐debated ‘galant’ style concretely onto an inventory of stock musical phrases, or ‘galant schemata’. The rich historico‐cognitive discourse sparked by this growing ‘schematicon’ has provided significant theoretical evidence for their historical situatedness, coherence and objectivity; however, there remains a shortage of empirical studies that problematise their contexts of applicability, as well as descriptiveness within full galant works. In light of this, the present investigation schematically interprets three varied works by the eighteenth‐century composer C. P. E. Bach, who is known for pushing the boundaries of the galant style: theMagnificatin D, Wq. 215;Die Israeliten in der Wüste, Wq. 238 (all applicable movements); and the ‘Württemberg’ Sonatas, Wq. 49 (opening movements). Similar proportions of each vocal work are found to be covered by galant schemata (55 per cent and 46 per cent, respectively), atypical schema variants (17 per cent and 24 per cent respectively) and non‐schematic space (25 per cent each), whilst the ‘Württemberg’ Sonatas yielded more (82 per cent) typical schemata, fewer (3 per cent) atypical schemata and reduced (13 per cent) non‐schematic space. Comparisons and analyses within and between these works and schematic categories reveal potential additions to the galant schematicon; highlight the existence of interactions between galant schemata, higher‐level schemas andpartimentischemata; and elucidate both fluid and strict understandings of Gjerdingen's galant category within eighteenth‐century music. Consequently, they focus the question of schema historicity back onto their galant situatedness and establish an important evidence‐based framework from which the Gjerdingenian galant category – and the schemata which constitute it – may be further elucidated.
Middle Jurassic insect mines on gymnosperms provide missing links to early mining evolution
Authors: Xiao Lifang , Labandeira Conrad C. , Wu Yuekun , Shih ChungKun , Ren Dong , Wang Yongjie
Published: January 2024

We investigated the mining mode of insect feeding, involving larval consumption of a plant's internal tissues, from the Middle Jurassic (165 million years ago) Daohugou locality of Northeastern China. Documentation of mining from the Jurassic Period is virtually unknown, and results from this time interval would address mining evolution during the temporal gap of mine–seed plant diversifications from the previous Late Triassic to the subsequent Early Cretaceous.

Plant fossils were examined with standard microscopic procedures for herbivory and used the standard functional feeding group–damage‐type system of categorizing damage. All fossil mines were photographed and databased.

We examined 2014 plant specimens, of which 27 occurrences on 14 specimens resulted in eight, new, mine damage types (DTs) present on six genera of bennettitalean, ginkgoalean, and pinalean gymnosperms.

Three conclusions emerge from this study. First, these mid‐Mesozoic mines are morphologically conservative and track plant host anatomical structure rather than plant phylogeny. Second, likely insect fabricators of these mines were three basal lineages of polyphagan beetles, four basal lineages of monotrysian moths, and a basal lineage tenthredinoid sawflies. Third, the nutrition hypothesis, indicating that miners had greater access to nutritious, inner tissues of new plant lineages, best explains mine evolution during the mid‐Mesozoic.
Nicotinamide employs a starvation strategy against Porphyromonas gingivalis virulence by inhibiting the heme uptake system and gingipain activities
Authors: Lei Zixue , Ma Qizhao , Tu Yeting , Qiu Yang , Gong Tao , Lin Yongwang , Zhou Xuedong , Li Yuqing
Published: January 2024

Periodontitis is a common oral bacterial infection characterized by inflammatory responses. Its high prevalence lowers the quality of life for individuals and increases the global economic and disease burden. As microorganisms in dental plaque are responsible for this oral disease, antibacterial drug treatments are effective strategies for preventing and treating periodontitis. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of nicotinamide (NAM), a vitamin B3 derivative, on the growth and virulence of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key member of the red complex. Our findings revealed that NAM inhibited bacterial growth and gingipain activities, which played a dominant role in protein hydrolysis and heme acquisition. NAM decreased hemagglutination and hemolysis abilities and changed hemin and hemoglobin binding capacities, controlling bacterial infection through a starvation strategy by blocking access to growth‐essential nutrients from the outside and reducing bacterial virulence. Several experiments in an animal model showed the effectiveness of NAM in preventing alveolar bone loss and reducing inflammatory cell infiltration, shedding light on its potential therapeutic applicability.
Genomic analyses provide insights into sex differentiation of tetraploid strawberry (Fragaria moupinensis)
Authors: Qiao Qin , Cao Qiang , Zhang Rengang , Wu Mingzhao , Zheng Yibingyue , Xue Li , Lei Jiajun , Sun Hang , Liston Aaron , Zhang Ticao
Published: January 2024

The strawberry genus, Fragaria, exhibits a wide range of sexual systems and natural ploidy variation. Nearly, all polyploid strawberry species exhibit separate sexes (dioecy). Research has identified the sex‐determining sequences as roughly conserved but with repeatedly changed genomic locations across octoploid strawberries. However, it remains unclear whether tetraploid wild strawberries evolved dioecy independently or shared a common origin with octoploid strawberries. In this study, we investigated the sex determinants of F. moupinensis, a dioecious plant with heterogametic females (ZW). Utilizing a combination of haplotype‐resolved genome sequencing of the female F. moupinensis, k‐mer‐based and coverage‐based genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), and transcriptomic analysis, we discovered a non‐recombining, approximately 33.6 kb W‐specific region on chromosome 2a. Within this region, only one candidate sex‐determining gene (FmoAFT) was identified. Furthermore, an extensive resequencing of the entire Fragaria genus indicated that the W‐specific region displays conservative female specificity across all tetraploid species. This observation suggests that dioecy evolved independently in tetraploid and octoploid strawberries. Moreover, employing virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS), we knocked down the expression of the FmoAFT homologue transcript in cultivated strawberries, revealing its potential role in promoting female functions during early carpel development. We also applied DNA affinity purification sequencing (DAP‐seq) and yeast one‐hybrid assays to identify potential direct targets of FmoAFT. These insights shed new light on the genetic basis and evolutionary history of sex determination in strawberries, thereby facilitating the formulation of strategies to manipulate sex determination in breeding programs.
Specialized pollination by cecidomyiid flies and associated floral traits in Vincetoxicum sangyojarniae (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae)
Authors: Kidyoo A. , Kidyoo M. , Ekkaphan P. , Blatrix R. , McKey D. , Proffit M.
Published: January 2024

Specialized pollination systems frequently match a particular set of floral characteristics. Vincetoxicum spp. (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) have disk‐shaped flowers with open access to rewards and reproductive organs. Flowers with these traits are usually associated with generalized pollination. However, the highly modified androecium and gynoecium that characterize asclepiads are thought to be associated with specialized pollinators.

In V. sangyojarniae, we investigated floral biology, pollination, and the degree of pollinator specialization in two localities in Thailand. We examined floral traits that target legitimate pollinators.

Flowers of V. sangyojarniae opened only at night, emitted floral scents containing mainly (E)‐β‐ocimene, 1‐octen‐3‐ol, (E)‐4,8‐dimethyl‐1,3,7‐nonatriene (E‐DMNT) and N‐(3‐methylbutyl)acetamide, and provided sucrose‐dominated nectar openly to insect visitors. Assessment of pollinator effectiveness indicated that V. sangyojarniae is functionally specialized for pollination by cecidomyiid flies. Although various insects, particularly cockroaches, frequently visited flowers, they did not carry pollinaria.

Our results suggest that V. sangyojarniae attracts its fly pollinators by emitting floral volatiles bearing olfactory notes associated with the presence of fungi or, less likely, of prey captured by predatory arthropods (food sources of its pollinators) but offers a nectar reward upon insect arrival. Hence, there is a mismatch between the advertisement and the actual reward. Our results also suggest that the size of floral parts constitutes a mechanical filter where reciprocal fit between flower and insect structures ensures that only suitable pollinators can extract the pollinaria, a prerequisite for successful pollination.
Preferences in AI algorithms: The need for relevant risk attitudes in automated decisions under uncertainties
Authors: Paté‐Cornell Elisabeth
Published: January 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to improve life and reduce risks by providing large amounts of information embedded in big databases and by suggesting or implementing automated decisions under uncertainties. Yet, in the design of a prescriptive AI algorithm, some problems may occur, first and clearly, if the AI information is wrong or incomplete. But the main point of this article is that under uncertainties, the decision algorithm, rational or not, includes, in one way or another, a risk attitude in addition to deterministic preferences. That risk attitude implemented in the software is chosen by the analysts, the organization that they serve, the experts who inform them, and more generally by the process of identifying possible options. The problem is that it may or may not represent, as it should, the preferences of the actual decision maker (the risk manager) and of the people subjected to his/her decisions. This article briefly describes the sometimes‐serious problem of that discrepancy between the preferences of the risk managers who use an AI output, and the risk attitude embedded in the AI system. The recommendation is to make these AI factors as accessible and transparent as possible and to allow for preference adjustments in the model if needed. The formulation of two simplified examples is described, that of a medical doctor and his/her patient when using an AI system to decide of a treatment option, and that of a skipper in a sailing race such as the America's Cup, receiving AI‐processed sensor signals about the sailing conditions on different possible courses.
Horizontal Inequalities in Africa
Authors: Tetteh‐Baah Samuel , Harttgen Kenneth , Lahoti Rahul , Günther Isabel
Published: January 2024

We estimate horizontal inequality across the African continent over time based on four identity cleavages—location, ethnicity, gender, and religion—and four well‐being indicators—education, asset ownership, child nutrition, and under‐five survival. Improvements in social indicators over the last 25 years appear to be equalizing, with a decline in most horizontal inequalities. However, most countries in Africa show higher levels of horizontal inequalities than countries in Asia or Latin America. Spatial inequalities remain particularly high in Africa, but there is also high variation in levels and trends of horizontal inequalities across the African continent. For example, education inequality across identity cleavages seems to be particularly high in West African countries, whereas ethnic inequality across well‐being indicators seems to be particularly high in Southern African countries. Various African countries have even witnessed a recent increase in specific horizontal inequalities. Our results support policymakers in identifying the most severe and deteriorating forms of horizontal inequality in their countries.
Convergence of Inequality Dimensions in China: Income, Consumption, and Wealth from 1988 to 2018
Authors: Wan Haiyuan , Gustafsson Bjorn , Wang Yingfei
Published: January 2024

Using household data from 1988 to 2018, we confirm that the increase in income inequality in China has come to a halt in recent years but show that inequality in wealth and consumption continues to increase. We report a clear convergence of inequality across the different dimensions of income, consumption, and wealth. Households at the top of one dimension are increasingly located at the top of the other two dimensions. The mechanisms for such convergence across dimensions are analyzed. The savings rate links income and consumption, while capital accumulation is the central mechanism linking income and wealth. In addition, the wealth and income structure contribute to intensifying the convergence trend. We argue that the relatively high level of inequality in China may continue since income, consumption and wealth are increasingly reinforcing each other.
Physiological and molecular predictors of cycling sprint performance
Authors: Galvan‐Alvarez Victor , Gallego‐Selles Angel , Martinez‐Canton Miriam , Perez‐Suarez Ismael , Garcia‐Gonzalez Eduardo , Martin‐Rincon Marcos , Calbet Jose A. L.
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to identify novel muscle phenotypic factors that could determine sprint performance using linear regression models including the lean mass of the lower extremities (LLM), myosin heavy chain composition (MHC), and proteins and enzymes implicated in glycolytic and aerobic energy generation (citrate synthase, OXPHOS proteins), oxygen transport and diffusion (myoglobin), ROS sensing (Nrf2/Keap1), antioxidant enzymes, and proteins implicated in calcium handling. For this purpose, body composition (dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry) and sprint performance (isokinetic 30‐s Wingate test: peak and mean power output, Wpeak and Wmean) were measured in young physically active adults (51 males and 10 females), from which a resting muscle biopsy was obtained from the musculus vastus lateralis. Although females had a higher percentage of MHC I, SERCA2, pSer16/Thr17‐phospholamban, and Calsequestrin 2 protein expressions (all p < 0.05), and 18.4% lower phosphofructokinase 1 protein expression than males (p < 0.05), both sexes had similar sprint performance when it was normalized to body weight or LLM. Multiple regression analysis showed that Wpeak could be predicted from LLM, SDHB, Keap1, and MHC II % (R
2 = 0.62, p < 0.001), each variable contributing to explain 46.4%, 6.3%, 4.4%, and 4.3% of the variance in Wpeak, respectively. LLM and MHC II % explained 67.5% and 2.1% of the variance in Wmean, respectively (R
2 = 0.70, p < 0.001). The present investigation shows that SDHB and Keap1, in addition to MHC II %, are relevant determinants of peak power output during sprinting.
Adaptation and validation of the French version of empathy questionnaire in preschoolers
Authors: Simon Poline , Houssa Marine , Barbot Baptiste , Nader‐Grosbois Nathalie
Published: January 2024

At preschool age, children need to develop socio‐emotional skills, including empathy, in order to adapt their response during social interactions with peers and adults in various contexts. When preschoolers face difficulties in their social interactions, it is relevant to assess their empathy in order to know whether a specific preventive intervention is needed. This study aimed to adapt and validate the French version of the Empathy Questionnaire (EmQue‐vf), which was completed by Belgian mothers of 307 children aged from 2 to 6 years. Mothers also completed the Griffith Empathy Measure (GEM‐vf), Theory of Mind Inventory (ToMI1‐vf) and Emotion Regulation Checklist (ERC‐vf). A CFA confirmed a three‐factor structure for EmQue‐vf, including 14 items loading onto three factors: (1) Emotion Contagion, (2) Attention to Others’ Feelings, and (3) Prosocial Actions. This structure was confirmed for the boys’ and girls’ samples treated separately, as well as for the overall sample. Internal consistency ranged from acceptable for Emotion Contagion to good for Attention to Others’ Feelings and Prosocial Actions. In terms of concurrent criterion validity with GEM‐vf, the three factors of EmQue‐vf correlated positively with the affective empathy score and only the Prosocial Actions scale was positively linked with the cognitive empathy score. In terms of construct validity, Pearson's correlations showed a positive link between age and Prosocial Actions. Moreover, the three EmQue‐vf subscales were linked positively to Theory of Mind and emotion regulation scores. A negative link was obtained between Prosocial Actions and emotion dysregulation scores. In conclusion, EmQue‐vf presents good psychometric qualities. It will be a useful in future research and interventions involving French‐speaking children with and without developmental disorders.
GIGANTEA accelerates wheat heading time through gene interactions converging on FLOWERING LOCUS T1
Authors: Li Chengxia , Lin Huiqiong , Debernardi Juan M. , Zhang Chaozhong , Dubcovsky Jorge
Published: January 2024

Precise regulation of flowering time is critical for cereal crops to synchronize reproductive development with optimum environmental conditions, thereby maximizing grain yield. The plant‐specific gene GIGANTEA (GI) plays an important role in the control of flowering time, with additional functions on the circadian clock and plant stress responses. In this study, we show that GI loss‐of‐function mutants in a photoperiod‐sensitive tetraploid wheat background exhibit significant delays in heading time under both long‐day (LD) and short‐day photoperiods, with stronger effects under LD. However, this interaction between GI and photoperiod is no longer observed in isogenic lines carrying either a photoperiod‐insensitive allele in the PHOTOPERIOD1 (PPD1) gene or a loss‐of‐function allele in EARLY FLOWERING 3 (ELF3), a known repressor of PPD1. These results suggest that the normal circadian regulation of PPD1 is required for the differential effect of GI on heading time in different photoperiods. Using crosses between mutant or transgenic plants of GI and those of critical genes in the flowering regulation pathway, we show that GI accelerates wheat heading time by promoting FLOWERING LOCUS T1 (FT1) expression via interactions with ELF3, VERNALIZATION 2 (VRN2), CONSTANS (CO), and the age‐dependent microRNA172‐APETALA2 (AP2) pathway, at both transcriptional and protein levels. Our study reveals conserved GI mechanisms between wheat and Arabidopsis but also identifies specific interactions of GI with the distinctive photoperiod and vernalization pathways of the temperate grasses. These results provide valuable knowledge for modulating wheat heading time and engineering new varieties better adapted to a changing environment.
Cold‐induced deposition of bivalent H3K4me3‐H3K27me3 modification and nucleosome depletion in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Hao , Yin Chang , Zhang Guoyan , Yang Miao , Zhu Bo , Jiang Jiming , Zeng Zixian
Published: January 2024

Epigenetic regulation of gene expression plays a crucial role in plant development and environmental adaptation. The H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 have not only been discovered in the regulation of gene expression in multiple biological processes but also in responses to abiotic stresses in plants. However, evidence for the presence of both H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 on the same nucleosome is sporadic. Cold‐induced deposition of bivalent H3K4me3‐H3K27me3 modifications and nucleosome depletion over a considerable number of active genes is documented in potato tubers and provides clues on an additional role of the bivalent modifications. Limited by the available information of genes encoding PcG/TrxG proteins as well as their corresponding mutants in potatoes, the molecular mechanism underlying the cold‐induced deposition of the bivalent mark remains elusive. In this study, we found a similar deposition of the bivalent H3K4me3‐H3K27me3 mark over 2129 active genes in cold‐treated Arabidopsis Col‐0 seedlings. The expression levels of the bivalent mark‐associated genes tend to be independent of bivalent modification levels. However, these genes were associated with greater chromatin accessibility, presumably to provide a distinct chromatin environment for gene expression. In mutants clf28 and lhp1, failure to deposit H3K27me3 in active genes upon cold treatment implies that the CLF is potentially involved in cold‐induced deposition of H3K27me3, with assistance from LHP1. Failure to deposit H3K4me3 during cold treatment in atx1‐2 suggests a regulatory role of ATX1 in the deposition of H3K4me3. In addition, we observed a cold‐induced global reduction in nucleosome occupancy, which is potentially mediated by LHP1 in an H3K27me3‐dependent manner.