bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the physical literacy development of 8‐ to 12‐year‐old children living with chronic medical conditions: A comprehensive, mixed methods inquiry
Authors: Blais Angelica , Katz Sherri Lynne , Klaassen Robert J. , Lougheed Jane , Reisman John J. , Pohl Daniela , Lawrence Sarah , Lai Lillian , Lee Suzie , Gardin Letizia , Wong Derek , Sell Erick , Longmuir Patricia
Published: August 2024

Background

Physical literacy is a concept used to describe the combined physical, affective and cognitive capacities facilitating an active lifestyle. Physical activity participation is essential for children living with chronic medical conditions, but knowledge of physical literacy among this group is scarce.

Methods

An explanatory, sequential mixed methods design was used to comprehensively describe the physical literacies of children with chronic medical conditions (CMCs). Participants were recruited from paediatric cardiology, respirology/cystic fibrosis, neurology, haematology and endocrinology outpatient clinics. All participants completed the Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (2nd Edition), and those with higher and lower scores were invited to a semi‐structured interview. A deductive‐inductive thematic analysis was applied using Margaret Whitehead's conceptualization of physical literacy.

Results

Using normative strata, 80.0% of the 99 children assessed (mean age = 9.97 ± 1.3 years, 48% girls) were considered beginning or progressing in their overall physical literacy (mean score = 56.5 ± 13.8/100). Meanwhile, physical literacy informed participants' approach to new, active experiences and may have contributed to a strong sense of self. There was a significant difference between endocrinology and haematology patients on total physical literacy score (p = 0.03) but not domain scores. Participants scored high on motivation/confidence (mean = 22.9 ± 5.0/30) but obtained low physical competence (mean = 11.8 ± 5.6/30) and daily behaviour scores (n = 72, mean = 15.5 ± 7.1/30). Main themes represent salient experiences of children with CMCs within the domains of physical literacy, including their need to evaluate active contexts, self‐regulate activity intensity and manage physical limitations.

Conclusions

Children with CMCs can achieve recommended levels of physical literacy without meeting normative standards for physical competence. Participants would benefit from a physical literacy intervention that targets the development of bodily self‐regulation skills and risk evaluation in active settings.
Astragalin improves cognitive disorder in Alzheimer's disease: Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking simulation
Authors: Du Rui , Pei Hongyan , He Zhongmei , Wang Jin , Zhou Xiaohong , Li Wenyan , Zhu Diwei , Zhang Caiqun
Published: August 2024

We investigate the mechanism of action of astragalin (AST) in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Network pharmacology was conducted to analyze the relationships among AST, AD, and neuroinflammation, The APP/PS1 transgenic mice with AD were used in the experiments; to be specific, the influence of AST on the behavior of mice was analyzed by Morris water maze and eight‐arm radial maze tests, the tissue inflammatory factor levels were detected by ELISA, and pathological changes were analyzed by H&E and immunohistochemical staining. Analysis results of network pharmacology suggested that AST exerted the multi‐target effect on neuroinflammation in AD. Through molecular docking and dynamics analyses, COX2 might be the target of AST. Moreover, animal experimental results demonstrated that AST improved the behavior of AD mice, and enhanced the motor and memory abilities, meanwhile, it suppressed the expression of inflammatory factors in tissues and the activation of microglial cells. this study discovers that AST can suppress microglial cell activation via COX2 to improve neuroinflammation in AD.
Abnormal large‐scale brain functional network dynamics in social anxiety disorder
Authors: Zhang Xun , Wu Baolin , Yang Xun , Kemp Graham J. , Wang Song , Gong Qiyong
Published: August 2024

Aims

Although static abnormalities of functional brain networks have been observed in patients with social anxiety disorder (SAD), the brain connectome dynamics at the macroscale network level remain obscure. We therefore used a multivariate data‐driven method to search for dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) alterations in SAD.

Methods

We conducted spatial independent component analysis, and used a sliding‐window approach with a k‐means clustering algorithm, to characterize the recurring states of brain resting‐state networks; then state transition metrics and FNC strength in the different states were compared between SAD patients and healthy controls (HC), and the relationship to SAD clinical characteristics was explored.

Results

Four distinct recurring states were identified. Compared with HC, SAD patients demonstrated higher fractional windows and mean dwelling time in the highest‐frequency State 3, representing “widely weaker” FNC, but lower in States 2 and 4, representing “locally stronger” and “widely stronger” FNC, respectively. In State 1, representing “widely moderate” FNC, SAD patients showed decreased FNC mainly between the default mode network and the attention and perceptual networks. Some aberrant dFNC signatures correlated with illness duration.

Conclusion

These aberrant patterns of brain functional synchronization dynamics among large‐scale resting‐state networks may provide new insights into the neuro‐functional underpinnings of SAD.
An extraperitoneal single‐port robotic approach to low anterior resection—Cadaveric experience
Authors: Hany Tarek S. , Stein Hubert , Bhowmick Arnab K.
Published: August 2024

Aim

A minimally invasive surgery (MIS) extraperitoneal (XP) approach to left‐sided colorectal resection utilizing the laparoscopic approach has recently been shown to be safe and feasible and to have potential advantages over the transperitoneal approach, especially in high‐risk surgical patients. The aim of this article is to provide a first cadaveric demonstration of the use of a single‐port robotic platform in performing XP low anterior resection by MIS.

Method

A single‐port robotic platform (DaVinci®SP™) was used to perform XP single‐port low anterior resection in two cadavers with body mass indexes (BMIs) of 19 and 40 kg/m2.

Results

The single‐port robotic platform with versatile arms was successfully used to perform a complete low anterior resection with splenic flexure mobilization and total mesorectal excision through a single port.

Conclusions

A single‐port robotic platform enhances complete XP dissection in the supine patient in extreme BMI ranges. Clinical studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
Unplanned Perioperative Reoperation Following Pulmonary Resection in Lung Cancer Patients: A Report of a Single‐Center Experience
Authors: Feng Hongxiang , Zhao Yue , Liang Chaoyang , Shi Yuhui , Liu Deruo , Zhang Jin , Zhang Zhenrong
Published: August 2024

Background

Pulmonary resection is an important part of comprehensive treatment of lung cancer. Despite the progress in recent thoracic surgery, reoperation is occasionally inevitable for managing severe perioperative complications. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and causes of perioperative reoperation in lung cancer patients.

Methods

We retrospectively collected patients who underwent reoperation following pulmonary resection from January 2010 to February 2021 in China‐Japan Friendship Hospital.

Results

Among the 5032 lung cancer patients who received primary pulmonary resection in our institute, 37 patients underwent perioperative reoperation with the rate being 0.74%. Lobectomy was the most frequently executed procedure (56.8%). The mean duration of the primary surgery was 143.6 ± 65.1 min. About half of the cases received secondary surgery within 24 h of the primary surgery, whereas only one case underwent secondary surgery 30 days after the primary surgery (due to chylous leakage). The major causes of the reoperation were bleeding (73.0%), chylous leakage (13.5%), lobar torsion (5.4%), air leakage (2.7%), atelectasis (2.9%), and cardiac herniation (2.7%).

Conclusion

The most prevalent reasons for unplanned reoperation following pulmonary resection in lung cancer patients include bleeding, chylous leakage, and lobar torsion. The strict control of the surgical indications and standardization of surgical procedures are fundamental to reduce unplanned secondary operations after pulmonary resections. Timely identification of the need to secondary surgery is also important to ensure patients' safety.
Identification of Biomarkers for Lung Adenocarcinoma With Qi Deficiency and Phlegm Dampness
Authors: Chen Jiabin , Wang Sheng , Yang Qiaolei , Zhang Yongjun , Shen Jianfei , Chai Kequn
Published: August 2024

Background

Qi deficiency and phlegm dampness (QPD) is one of the most common traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndromes in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). This study aimed to identify syndrome‐specific biomarkers for LUAD with QPD syndrome.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from LUAD patients with QPD, LUAD patients with non‐QPD (N‐QPD), and healthy control (H) were collected and analyzed with RNA‐seq to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) of each DEG was calculated, and the top 10 highest AUC DEGs were validated by qRT‐PCR. Logistic regression analysis was used to develop a diagnostic model evaluated with AUC.

Results

A total of 135 individuals were enrolled in this study (training set: 15 QPD, 15 N‐QPD, 15 H; validation set: 30 QPD, 30 N‐QPD, 30 H). A total of 1480 DEGs were identified between QPD and N‐QPD. The qRT‐PCR results showed that the expression of DDR2 was downregulated, and PPARG was upregulated, which was in line with the finding of the training set. We developed a diagnostic model with these two genes. The AUC of the diagnostic model in the training cohort and validation cohort was 0.891 and 0.777, respectively.

Conclusions

We identified the two genes (DDR2 and PPARG) as syndrome‐specific biomarkers for LUAD with QPD syndrome and developed a novel diagnostic model, which may help to improve the accuracy and sensibility of clinical diagnosis and provide a new target for natural drug treatment of LUAD.
Efficacy and threshold dose of intensive training targeting mobility for children with cerebral palsy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sudati Isabella Pessóta , Sakzewski Leanne , Fioroni Ribeiro da Silva Carolina , Jackman Michelle , Haddon Matthew , Pool Dayna , Patel Maharshi , Boyd Roslyn N. , de Campos Ana Carolina
Published: August 2024

Aim

To systematically review the evidence for intensive mobility training in cerebral palsy (CP) and to determine the minimum effective dose to improve mobility.

Method

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi‐RCTs that included participants with CP, and which used intensive task‐oriented training (TOT) mobility interventions and reported mobility outcomes, were included. Five databases were searched; two independent reviewers selected studies and extracted data. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system and the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool were used to rate the certainty of evidence at the outcomes level and to determine the risk of bias respectively. Meta‐analyses were conducted with clinically homogeneous studies. Threshold dose was analysed through meta‐regression.

Results

Forty‐six RCTs with 1449 participants (mean age range 1 year 2 months to 16 years 4 months) were included. TOT had statistically and clinically significant effects on walking speed (p = 0.001), cadence (p = 0.02), gross motor function (p = 0.03), and functional mobility (p = 0.009) compared with control interventions. The threshold dose was undeterminable owing to the high heterogeneity of studies.

Interpretation

TOT may improve walking speed, walking endurance, and balance. Studies with homogeneous samples and outcomes are needed to support clinical recommendations for intensive mobility interventions.
Research priorities in child neurology: Balancing pragmatism and progress worldwide
Authors: Singhi Pratibha
Published: August 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Cadwgan et al. on pages 1590–1599 of this issue.
The latest evidence and clinical guidelines for use of meal replacements in very‐low‐calorie diets or low‐calorie diets for the treatment of obesity
Authors: Edwards‐Hampton Shenelle A. , Ard Jamy
Published: August 2024

Obesity is a complex chronic disease with increasing prevalence across the globe. Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is an important component of obesity treatment, and low‐calorie diets (LCDs) and very‐low‐calorie diets (VLCDs) are part of the MNT toolbox. This narrative review focuses on the latest evidence and clinical guidelines regarding the use and impact of meal replacements (MRs) as part of LCDs/VLCDs for the treatment of obesity and some associated complications. MRs can be used in conjunction with food as partial diet replacement (PDR) or can be used exclusively to serve as the sole source of dietary energy (total diet replacement [TDR]). Use of MR may be associated with better control of cravings and hunger typically observed during reduced calorie intake through effects of ketosis or stimuli narrowing, although the exact mechanisms for these effects remain unclear. Several clinical guidelines have endorsed the use of MRs as a part of MNT for obesity, primarily based on evidence that shows an average weight reduction of ~10 kg or more with TDR over at least 12 months in large, randomized controlled trials. When compared to usual care controls, these effects are 6–8 kg greater, and when compared to food‐based diets, the effects are nearly twice the effect of a food‐based diet. MR‐based diets have been found to be safe and associated with improvements in quality of life. These diets are also effective for improving key cardiometabolic health outcomes, including dysglycaemia, blood pressure, lipids, and metabolic associated fatty liver. The effectiveness, safety, and associated health improvement makes MRs use a valuable strategy for several higher risk clinical scenarios where weight reduction is indicated.
Comparing the effectiveness of molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir in non‐hospitalized and hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with type 2 diabetes: A target trial emulation study
Authors: Wan Eric Y. F. , Wong Zoey C. T. , Yan Vincent K. C. , Chui Celine S. L. , Lai Francisco T. T. , Li Xue , Wong Ian C. K. , Chan Esther W. Y.
Published: August 2024

Aims

To compare the effectiveness of molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir for non‐hospitalized and hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

Territory‐wide electronic health records in Hong Kong were used to perform target trial emulation using a sequential trial approach. Patients (1) aged ≥18 years, (2) with T2DM, (3) with COVID‐19 infection, and (4) who received molnupiravir or nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir within 5 days of infection between 16 March 2022 and 31 December 2022 in non‐hospital and hospital settings were included. Molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir initiators were matched using one‐to‐one propensity‐score matching and followed for 28 days. Risk of outcomes was compared between groups by Cox regression adjusted for baseline characteristics. Subgroup analyses were performed on age (<70 years, ≥70 years), sex, Charlson comorbidity index (<4, ≥4), and number of COVID‐19 vaccine doses (<2 doses, ≥2 doses).

Results

Totals of 17 974 non‐hospitalized (8987 in each group) and 3678 hospitalized (1839 in each group) patients were identified. Non‐hospitalized nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir initiators had lower risk of all‐cause mortality (absolute risk reduction [ARR] at 28 days 0.80%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.56–1.04; hazard ratio [HR] 0.47, 95% CI 0.30–0.73) and hospitalization (ARR at 28 days 4.01%, 95% CI 3.19–4.83; HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.66–0.82) as compared with molnupiravir initiators. Hospitalized nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir initiators had reduced risk of all‐cause mortality (ARR at 28 days 2.94%, 95% CI 1.65–4.23; HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.40–0.80) as compared with molnupiravir initiators. Consistent findings were found across all subgroups.

Conclusions

The use of nirmatrelvir‐ritonavir may be preferred to molnupiravir for COVID‐19 patients with T2DM and without contraindication to either treatment.
Understanding decision‐making processes of prospective adoptive parents: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Willis Bethany , Hrapczynski Katie , Fortner Cheryl
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study explores prospective adoptive parents' conceptions by testing hypotheses based on a decision‐making model proposed by Willis Hepp and colleagues grounded in symbolic interaction.

Background

Multiple factors inform decisions to adopt. However, little is known about the decision‐making process as prospective adoptive parents consider this option.

Method

Seventeen prospective adoptive parents were recruited using purposive sampling. An advanced concurrent mixed‐methods design was used to integrate findings from semistructured interviews and a survey using the FACES IV to generate more complete conclusions regarding the model.

Results

Ten themes emerged related to prospective parents' conceptions of self and generalized others, including internalization of adoption as part of one's self, referencing families of origin in family formation thinking, and personal histories informing future visions. Pronatal, biological social pressures echo in families of origin that, combined with religious and other social experiences, impact decision‐making. Family cohesion, flexibility, and communication vary based on where they fall along a spectrum of decision‐making.

Conclusion

Conceptions of self and others inform decision‐making, where some choose, and others wait or opt out of, adoptive parenthood.

Implications

It behooves practitioners to differentiate supports for individuals thinking about transition to adoptive parenthood based on their conceptions of self and generalized others.
Impulse self‐gifting: An exploration of motivations, contexts, and the role of self‐control
Authors: Seo Sukyung , Nelson Hodges Nancy
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the motivations and contexts that prompt consumers' impulse self‐gifting behaviors (ISGB). A thematic analysis of interview data collected from 20 consumers revealed that motivations for ISGB were prompted by specific contexts and that attempts to avoid ISGB through self‐control were typical among the participants. Mood states and marketing promotions also emerged as contexts prompting ISGB. Findings were viewed through the conceptual lens of stimulus‐organism‐response to frame the experience of ISGB as a process. This study expands the literature by considering the implications of impulse purchasing for self‐gifting and offering strategic insights for practitioners.
Phytoplankton cell‐states: multiparameter fluorescence lifetime flow‐based monitoring reveals cellular heterogeneity
Authors: Harris Paul David , Ben Eliezer Nadav , Keren Nir , Lerner Eitan
Published: August 2024

Phytoplankton are a major source of primary productivity. Their photosynthetic fluorescence are unique measures of their type, physiological state, and response to environmental conditions. Changes in phytoplankton photophysiology are commonly monitored by bulk fluorescence spectroscopy, where gradual changes are reported in response to different perturbations, such as light intensity changes. What is the meaning of such trends in bulk parameters if their values report ensemble averages of multiple unsynchronized cells? To answer this, we developed an experimental scheme that enables tracking fluorescence intensities, brightnesses, and their ratios, as well as mean photon nanotimes equivalent to mean fluorescence lifetimes, one cell at a time. We monitored three different phytoplankton species during diurnal cycles and in response to an abrupt increase in light intensity. Our results show that we can define specific subpopulations of cells by their fluorescence parameters for each of the phytoplankton species, and in response to varying light conditions. Importantly, we identify the cells undergo well‐defined transitions between these subpopulations. The approach shown in this work will be useful in the exact characterization of phytoplankton cell states and parameter signatures in response to different changes these cells experience in marine environments, which will be applicable for monitoring marine‐related environmental effects.
Regulation of the expression of MHETase and TPA degradation genes involved in the degradation of PET in Ideonella sakaiensis
Authors: Tanaka Yuya , Hiraga Kazumi , Inui Masayuki
Published: August 2024

Ideonella sakaiensis is a bacterium that can degrade and consume polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a plastic material that was previously considered non‐biodegradable. The degradation of PET requires two enzymes, namely poly (ethylene terephthalate) hydrolase (PETase) and mono (2‐hydroxyethyl) terephthalate hydrolase (MHETase), which break down PET into terephthalate (TPA) and ethylene glycol (EG), which serve as carbon sources for the bacterium. Previous studies have focused on the enzymatic properties, structure, and mechanism of action of PETase and MHETase. However, the regulation of PETase and MHETase gene expression has not been investigated. This study identified a protein that binds to the MHETase promoter DNA, MHETase gene‐regulating protein (MRP) in I. sakaiensis. PET or TPA induced the expression of PETase and MHETase genes. Furthermore, the induction of the MHETase gene was abolished by the deletion of the mrp gene, while the expression of the PETase gene was maintained. In addition, the genes involved in TPA metabolism were not induced in the mrp mutant. Furthermore, the growth of the PET and TPA deteriorated due to mrp mutation. Also, MRP binds to the promoter regions of the MHETase gene and TPA metabolizing genes, but not to the PETase gene promoter. These results suggest that MRP is a transcription factor that activates MHETase and TPA‐metabolizing genes.
Linkage between temperature sensitivity of SOM decomposition and microbial communities depends on soil fractions
Authors: Qin Shuqi , Fang Kai , Song Yutong , Kang Luyao , Wang Siyu , Yang Yuanhe
Published: August 2024

The magnitude of terrestrial carbon (C)‐climate feedback largely depends on the temperature sensitivity of soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition (Q10). However, our understanding of determinants of Q10 for SOM fractions such as particulate and mineral‐associated organic matter (POM and MAOM, respectively) is still inadequate. Particularly, it remains unclear whether microbial effects on Q10 are fraction‐dependent, which induces large uncertainties in projecting soil C dynamics. Here, we conducted large‐scale topsoil sampling on the Tibetan Plateau, in combination with SOM fractionation and 300‐day laboratory incubation to assess SOM fraction‐dependent linkages between Q10 and microbial properties. We found that compared with MAOM, POM had larger Q10 and greater microbial diversity, and also structured distinct microbial communities as well as their co‐occurrence patterns. Furthermore, associations of Q10 with microbial properties differed between the two SOM fractions. Bacterial community composition and relative abundance of bacterial keystone taxa affected Q10 for POM and MAOM respectively, while bacterial alpha diversity showed opposite relationships with Q10 for POM and MAOM. These findings highlight the necessity of incorporating SOM fraction‐dependent microbial properties and their linkages with Q10 into Earth system models to accurately predict terrestrial C‐climate feedback.
Are biomass feedstocks sustainable? A systematic review of three key sustainability metrics
Authors: Knight David R. , Goldsworthy Michael , Smith Pete
Published: August 2024

Biomass feedstocks are growing in importance due to their ability to serve as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels for large scale energy generation, with bioenergy projected to be a growing part of the UK's energy mix. Combined with technologies such as carbon capture and storage, sustainable bioenergy has the potential to produce negative emissions with including counterbalancing residual emissions. This paper presents a systematic review of the sustainability impacts of wood biomass (forestry/SRC) andMiscanthus, which are grown as energy fuels, comparing the three key indicators of sustainability: soil organic carbon sequestration rates, biodiversity, and water use efficiency (WUE). Analysis has shown significant influence from primary soil composition (p < 0.001) and previous land use (p < 0.001) on soil organic carbon sequestration rates following conversion to biomass feedstock production. Conversion from arable to forestry can have positive rates of sequestration of 1.4 ± 0.3 Mg C ha−1 year−1on mineral soils, while similar conversions on a highly organic soils can lead to losses of −25 Mg C ha−1 year−1. This indicates a strong need for careful site selection for future forestry plantations.Miscanthusshowed no preference under mineral or organic soils for carbon sequestration rate. Biodiversity at different trophic scales is impacted differently by biomass feedstock production. No significant impact on invertebrates was demonstrated between feedstocks but there is a significant difference between crops (p < 0.001) for vertebrates at higher trophic levels. A limited dataset was collected for WUE from the review, but analysis showed comparable WUE rates forMiscanthusand short rotation coppice, while forestry had significantly lower (p < 0.001) WUE. With global temperatures increasing and changes to climate, water stress is likely to increase. WUE will play an important role in the considerations dfor long term biomass feedstock planning and sourcing.
Animal Models of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Vaccines: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Liu Zhili , Li He , Huang Xiaotian , Liu Qiong
Published: August 2024

Helicobacter pylori infection causes chronic gastritis, ulcers, and gastric cancer, making it a threat to human health. Despite the use of antibiotic therapy, the global prevalence of H. pylori infection remains high, necessitating early eradication measures. Immunotherapy, especially vaccine development, is a promising solution in this direction, albeit the selection of an appropriate animal model is critical in efficient vaccine production. Accordingly, we conducted a literature, search and summarized the commonly used H. pylori strains, H. pylori infection‐related animal models, and models for evaluating H. pylori vaccines. Based on factors such as the ability to replicate human diseases, strain compatibility, vaccine types, and eliciting of immune responses, we systematically compared the advantages and disadvantages of different animal models, to obtain the informed recommendations. In addition, we have proposed novel perspectives on H. pylori–related animal models to advance research and vaccine evaluation for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as gastric cancer.
Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (SLD) and alcohol‐associated liver disease, but not SLD without metabolic dysfunction, are independently associated with new onset of chronic kidney disease during a 10‐year follow‐up period
Authors: Mori Kazuma , Tanaka Marenao , Sato Tatsuya , Akiyama Yukinori , Endo Keisuke , Ogawa Toshifumi , Suzuki Toru , Aida Hiroki , Kawaharata Wataru , Nakata Kei , Hosaka Itaru , Umetsu Araya , Hanawa Nagisa , Furuhashi Masato
Published: August 2024

Aims

The new nomenclature of steatotic liver disease (SLD) including metabolic dysfunction‐associated SLD (MASLD), MASLD and increased alcohol intake (MetALD), and alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) has recently been proposed. We aimed to elucidate the relationship between each category of SLD and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

We investigated the effects of various SLDs on the development of CKD, defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or positive for urinary protein, during a 10‐year period in 12 138 Japanese subjects (men / women, 7984/4154; mean age, 48 years) who received annual health examinations including abdominal ultrasonography.

Results

The prevalences of SLD without metabolic dysfunction (SLD‐MD[−]), MASLD, MetALD, and ALD were 1.7%, 26.3%, 4.9%, and 1.9%, respectively. During the follow‐up period, 1963 subjects (16.2%) (men / women, 1374 [17.2%]/589 [14.2%]) had new onset of CKD. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard model analyses after adjustment of age, sex, eGFR, current smoking habit, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia showed that the hazard ratios (HR [95% confidence interval]) for the development of CKD in subjects with MASLD (1.20 [1.08–1.33], p = 0.001) and those with ALD (1.41 [1.05–1.88], p = 0.022), but not those with MetALD (1.11 [0.90–1.36], p = 0.332), were significantly higher than the HR in subjects with non‐SLD. Interestingly, subjects with SLD‐MD[−] had a significantly lower HR (0.61 [0.39–0.96], p = 0.034) than that in subjects with non‐SLD. The addition of the novel classification of SLDs into traditional risk factors for the development of CKD significantly improved the discriminatory capacity.

Conclusions

MASLD and ALD, but not SLD‐MD[−], are independently associated with the development of CKD.
Perceptions of women of Turkish origin living abroad on being a migrant: Existence as a woman
Authors: Çitil‐Akyol Canan
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to examine the migration decisions and experiences of Turkish‐origin women living abroad from a feminist perspective. In this qualitative study grounded in phenomenology and utilizing a purposive sampling approach, data were collected online from 82 women living abroad through a structured interview form, and thematic analysis was employed for evaluation. The participants' migration decisions revealed six sub‐themes and two main themes. Perceptions of the participants regarding their immigrant woman identities resulted in also five sub‐themes and five sub‐themes. Based on our findings, understanding the migration decisions and experiences of Turkish‐origin women living abroad can contribute to a better comprehension of migration policies and society from a gender perspective. These findings can guide policymakers and social service professionals in developing practical solutions to address the specific needs and challenges of women in the context of migration.
Dietary human milk oligosaccharides reduce allergic airway inflammation by modulating SCFAs level and ILC2 activity
Authors: Han Xu , Wang Zhongjie , Cao Hongchuan , Liu Weiwei , Sun Lijie , Xiao Qiang
Published: August 2024

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) play a crucial role in the progression of asthma, yet the regulatory mechanisms modulating ILC2 responses in asthma remain underexplored. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), vital non‐nutritive components of breast milk, are known to significantly shape immune system development and influence the incidence of allergic diseases. However, their impact on ILC2‐driven asthma is not fully understood. Our research reveals that dietary HMOs act as potent inhibitors of ILC2 responses and allergic airway inflammation. Treatment with 2′‐fucosyllactose (2'‐FL) and 6′‐sialyllactose (6'‐SL) significantly reduced ILC2‐related airway inflammation induced by papain or Alternaria alternata in mice, evidenced by decreased eosinophil (EOS) infiltration and lower IL‐5 and IL‐13 levels in BALF. Notably, while ILC2 expresses HMO receptors, HMO did not act directly on ILC2 but potentially modulated their activity through alterations in gut microbiota derived SCFAs. HMO treatments alleviated airway inflammation in SCFA‐dependent manners, with SCFA depletion or receptor blocking reversing these beneficial effects. This study reveals the potential of dietary HMOs in managing asthma through modulation of ILC2 activity and the gut‐lung axis, proposing a new therapeutic avenue that utilises the immunomodulatory capacities of nutritional components to combat respiratory diseases.
Orthodontic aligner therapy outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Meuffels Stephanie A. , Kuijpers‐Jagtman Anne Marie , Tjoa Stephen T. H. , Carvajal Monroy Paola L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face unique challenges in oral care. Aligner therapy offers a promising alternative to conventional approaches for this patient group.

Aim

To evaluate orthodontic aligner therapy outcomes in children with ASD using the Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) Index and the Index of Complexity, Outcome, and Need (ICON), and to investigate whether concomitant disorders affect ICON, PAR scores, and treatment duration.

Design

Two calibrated observers assessed digital dental casts and intraoral pictures of 37 children with ASD before (T0) and after (T1) their treatment. At T0, the participants' average age was 12.9 years (SD = 1.68); at T1, post‐therapy, the average age was 14.9 years (SD = 1.51). All participants underwent orthodontic aligner therapy. Statistical methods employed in this study included descriptive analysis, Wilcoxon tests, and univariate linear regression.

Results

Posttreatment, median ICON scores decreased significantly from 74 to 14, and median PAR scores from 36 to 8 (p < .0001), demonstrating “excellent to substantial” improvement in 89.2% (n = 33) of the children. Comorbidities, present in 62% of patients, did not significantly affect treatment duration (22.6 ± 11.02 months).

Conclusion

Children with ASD significantly benefit from orthodontic aligner therapy, emphasizing the need for tailored orthodontic care.
The IT‐driven ridesharing economy at the base of the pyramid: Unravelling the impact of uncertainty reduction on drivers' engagement in ridesharing
Authors: Cheng Xusen , Zhang Xiaoping , Luo Xin (Robert)
Published: August 2024

Despite the potential benefits for drivers at the base of the pyramid (BoP) of IT‐driven ridesharing businesses, drivers are susceptible to uncertainty owing to their low education and incomes, potentially compelling them to engage less in ridesharing over time. Although this important sociotechnical phenomenon has garnered increasing attention, IS studies on this topic are scarce. Drawing on uncertainty reduction theory, we explored mechanisms for reducing BoP drivers' uncertainty and building their trust to enable them to engage in ridesharing. We identified three means of uncertainty reduction at three levels: trust in passengers, trust in ridesharing platforms, and the effectiveness of ridesharing institutional mechanisms. Using a sequential, triangulated mixed‐methods approach, we conducted 30 semi‐structured interviews to explore trust building with drivers and used data provided by 303 ridesharing drivers to quantitatively test the proposed research model. We found that perceived empathy and information congruity increased BoP drivers' trust in passengers, whereas effective escrow services, perceived justice, matching accuracy, and a high level of privacy control increased BoP drivers' perceived trust in ridesharing platforms, motivating them to engage more frequently with ridesharing platforms. Furthermore, the results indicated that increasing trust in both passengers and ridesharing platforms and improving the effectiveness of ridesharing institutional mechanisms can enhance BoP drivers' engagement in ridesharing. We conducted 30 follow‐up interviews with BoP drivers to corroborate the quantitative results and draw robust inferences.
Influence of the biomechanical evaluation of rupture using two shapes of same intramedullary implant after proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis to correct the claw/hammer pathology: A finite element study
Authors: Bayod‐López Javier , Becerro‐de‐Bengoa‐Vallejo Ricardo , Prados‐Frutos Juan Carlos , Losa‐Iglesias Marta , López‐López Daniel , Prados‐Privado María
Published: August 2024

We used finite element analysis to study the mechanical stress distribution of a new intramedullary implant used for proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) arthrodesis (PIPJA) to surgically correct the claw‐hammer toe deformity that affects 20% of the population. After geometric reconstruction of the foot skeleton from claw toe images of a 36–year‐old male patient, two implants were positioned, in the virtual model, one neutral implant (NI) and another one 10° angled (10°AI) within the PIPJ of the second through fourth HT during the toe‐off phase of gait and results were compared to those derived for the non‐surgical foot (NSF). A PIPJA was performed on the second toe using a NI reduced tensile stress at the proximal phalanx (PP) (45.83 MPa) compared to the NSF (59.44 MPa; p < 0.001). When using the 10°AI, the tensile stress was much higher at PP and middle phalanges (MP) of the same toe, measuring 147.58 and 160.58 MPa, respectively, versus 59.44 and 74.95 MPa at corresponding joints in the NSF (all p < 0.001). Similar results were found for compressive stresses. The NI reduced compressive stress at the second PP (−65.12 MPa) compared to the NSF (−113.23 MPa) and the 10°AI (−142 MPa) (all p < 0.001). The von Mises stresses within the implant were also significantly lower when using NI versus 10°AI (p < 0.001). Therefore, we do not recommend performing a PIPJA using the 10°AI due to the increase in stress concentration primarily at the second PP and MP, which could promote implant breakage.
CoP electrodeposited on TiO2 nanorod arrays as photoanode for enhanced photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Muhetaer Maidina , Dong Ling , Wang Yu , Ma Yuhua , Du Hong
Published: August 2024

It is of great significance to design photoelectrodes with high carrier separation and transport efficiency in photocatalytic water separation systems. In this study, we used a simple electrochemical deposition method to regulate the load of co‐catalyst CoP on TiO2 nanorods to improve the photoelectrochemical properties. The photocurrent density of TiO2/CoP (20) photoanode at 1.23 V increases to 1.57 mA/cm2, which is 3.4 times that of original TiO2. Long‐term photoelectrolysis reveals that this electrode has excellent stability. Mechanistic studies support the role of CoP nanoparticles in improving photoelectrochemical property and imply that the excellent photoelectrochemical property of TiO2/CoP photoanode is mainly ascribed to the suppress of surface photogenerated electrons and holes recombination due to the construction of built‐in electric field between TiO2 and CoP.
Are urbanization and brood parasitism associated with differences in telomere lengths in song sparrows?
Authors: Lane Samuel J. , Vernasco Ben J. , Fossett Taylor E. , VanDiest Isaac J. , Watts Heather E. , Sewall Kendra B.
Published: August 2024

Urbanization reflects a major form of environmental change impacting wild birds globally. Whereas urban habitats may provide increased availability of water, some food items, and reduced predation levels compared to rural, they can also present novel stressors including increased light at night, ambient noise, and reduced nutrient availability. Urbanization can also alter levels of brood parasitism, with some host species experiencing elevated levels of brood parasitism in urban areas compared to rural areas. Though the demographic and behavioral consequences of urbanization and brood parasitism have received considerable attention, their consequences for cellular‐level processes are less understood. Telomeres provide an opportunity to understand the cellular consequences of different environments as they are a well‐established metric of biological state that can be associated with residual lifespan, disease risk, and behavior, and are known to be sensitive to environmental conditions. Here we examine the relationships between urbanization, brood parasitism, and blood telomere lengths in adult and nestling song sparrows Melospiza melodia. Song sparrows are a North American songbird found in both urban and rural habitats that experience high rates of brood parasitism by brown‐headed cowbirds Molothrus ater in the urban, but not the rural, sites in our study system. Among adults and nestlings from non‐parasitized nests, we found no differences in relative telomere lengths between urban and rural habitats. However, among urban nestlings, the presence of a brood parasite in the nest was associated with significantly shorter relative telomere lengths compared to when a brood parasite was absent. Our results suggest a novel, indirect, impact of urbanization on nestling songbirds through the physiological impacts of brood parasitism.
Microbiological and molecular profile of furcation defects in a population with untreated periodontitis
Authors: Santamaria Pasquale , Jin Yi , Ghuman Mandeep , Shoaie Saeed , Spratt David , Troiano Giuseppe , Nibali Luigi
Published: August 2024

Aim

To describe the microbiological composition of subgingival dental plaque and molecular profile of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of periodontal furcation‐involved defects.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐seven participants with periodontitis contributed with a degree II–III furcation involvement (FI), a non‐furcation (NF) periodontal defect and a periodontally healthy site (HS). Subgingival plaque was analysed by sequencing the V3–V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, and a multiplex bead immunoassay was carried out to estimate the GCF levels of 18 GCF biomarkers. Aiming to explore inherent patterns and the intrinsic structure of data, an AI‐clustering method was also applied.

Results

In total, 171 subgingival plaque and 84 GCF samples were analysed. Four microbiome clusters were identified and associated with FI, NF and HS. A reduced aerobic microbiota (p = .01) was detected in FI compared with NF; IL‐6, MMP‐3, MMP‐8, BMP‐2, SOST, EGF and TIMP‐1 levels were increased in the GCF of FI compared with NF.

Conclusions

This is the first study to profile periodontal furcation defects from a microbiological and inflammatory standpoint using conventional and AI‐based analyses. A reduced aerobic microbial biofilm and an increase of several inflammatory, connective tissue degradation and repair markers were detected compared with other periodontal defects.
History of Midwifery at Tuskegee: Vanguards of Midwifery Education
Authors: Holley Sharon L. , Mitchell Stephanie , Muñoz Elizabeth G. , Cockerham Anne Z.
Published: August 2024

Tuskegee, in Macon County, Alabama, has played an important role in Alabama's midwifery legacy and was home to 2 different midwifery education programs from the 1920s through the 1940s. In response to a 1918 state law requiring midwives to pass an examination to receive a practice permit in their county, stakeholders developed a four‐week course for Black Alabamian midwives on the grounds of Tuskegee Institute at the John A. Andrew Memorial Hospital. In the 1940s, in the same location on the grounds of Tuskegee Institute, the Tuskegee School of Nurse‐Midwifery educated Black nurse‐midwives to improve Black maternal and neonatal outcomes in the South.
The effect of virtual reality versus standard‐of‐care treatment on pain perception during paediatric vaccination: Study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: García‐Garcés Laura , Ruiz‐Zaldibar Cayetana , Lluesma‐Vidal Marta , Serra‐Guillén Isabel , Tomás‐Saura Inmaculada , Sánchez‐López María Inmaculada
Published: August 2024

Aims and Objectives

To study the effects of virtual reality (VR) on pain perception among a paediatric population while being vaccinated. We will also investigate the effects of VR on the fear experienced by children during the vaccination procedure, as well as parental satisfaction levels.

Background

Many studies, for example, in the fields of oncology, dermatology or plastic surgery, have described the benefits of using VR to reduce the perception of pain among paediatric populations. These results are encouraging, but their main limitations were the small sample sizes they included or their methodological design.

Design

This will be a randomised clinical trial.

Methods

SPIRIT guidelines were followed to report this protocol, and we will use the CONSORT and CONSORT‐EHEALTH guidelines to report the randomised clinical trial. The sample will comprise 148 children aged 3–14 years who will come for vaccination at the Tres Forques Health Center. The participants will be randomly allocated into intervention group (VR; n = 74) or (the control group standard‐of‐care; n = 74) at a 1:1 ratio. The intervention group will view experiences with a VR headset as a distraction measure. The study variables will be the level of pain and fear perceived by the child during vaccination, parental satisfaction with the vaccination procedure, and sociodemographic and vaccination variables.

Results

The start of the study is planned for September 2020, and the results will be expected in September 2021.

Conclusions

This study aims to identify what measures reduce pain and fear in children during vaccination, which in turn, can help to improve the degree of parental satisfaction with these procedures.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Vaccination is an independent function of the nursing profession. Identifying which distraction measures reduce the perception of pain and fear in the paediatric population will not only improve children's experiences but will also improve the satisfaction of both parents and children, thus increasing the degree of compliance with the vaccination schedule.
Acute care nurses' decisions to recognise and respond to patient improvement: A qualitative study
Authors: Burdeu Gabrielle , Rasmussen Bodil , Lowe Grainne , Considine Julie
Published: August 2024

Aim

To explore and describe acute care nurses’ decisions to recognise and respond to improvement in patients’ clinical states as they occurred in the real‐world clinical environment.

Design

A descriptive study.

Methods

Nine medical and eleven surgical nurses in a large Australian metropolitan hospital were individually observed during nurse–patient interactions and followed up in interview to describe their reasoning and clinical judgements behind observed decisions. Verbal description of observations and interviews were recorded and transcribed. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

The three themes constructed from the data were as follows: nurses checking in; nurses reaching judgements about improvements; and nurses deciding on the best person to respond. Acute care nurses made targeted assessment decisions based on predicted safety risks related to improvement in clinical states. Subjective and objective cues were used to assess for and make judgements about patient improvement. Acute care nurses’ judgment of patient safety and a desire to promote patient centred care guided their decisions to select the appropriate person to manage improvement.

Conclusions

The outcomes of this research have demonstrated that the proven safety benefits of acute care nurses’ decision making in response to deterioration extend to improvement in patients’ clinical states. In response to improvement, acute care nurses’ decisions protect patients from harm and promote recovery.

Implications for patient care

Early recognition and response to improvement enable acute care nurses to protect patients from risks of unnecessary treatment and promote recovery.

Impact

This study makes explicit nurses’ essential safety role in recognising and responding to improvement in patients’ clinical states. Healthcare policy and education must reflect the equal importance of assessment for and management of deterioration and improvement to ensure patients are protected and provided with safe care.