bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circulating microRNAs May Be Predictive of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Divi Srikanth N. , Markova Dessislava Z. , D’Antonio Nicholas D. , Lambrechts Mark J. , Levy Hannah A. , Heard Jeremy C. , Yalla Goutham R. , Chang Michael , Hilibrand Alan S. , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Kepler Christopher K.
Published: May 2024

Study Design.

Basic Science.

Objective.

The objective of this study was to identify a unique serum profile of circulating miRNAs and inflammatory markers in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) compared with healthy controls (HC).

Summary of Background Data.

Currently, DCM is diagnosed with a combination of history, physical examination, and close correlation to advanced imaging. To date, no serum marker has been identified to be diagnostic of this condition.

Methods.

Whole venous blood was collected from patients with DCM as well as healthy age-matched and gender-matched controls. miRNA was extracted from venous blood, and a screening analysis was initially conducted to identify miRNA dysregulation in DCM patients. RT-qPCR was used to analyze the expression of 2 specific miRNAs based on screening analysis and literature review. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify gene networks and potential targets of the miRNA. In addition, the serum inflammatory profile of DCM and HC groups was differentiated using a pro-inflammatory panel.

Results.

Thirty-six patients were enrolled in the DCM group (36.1% male, 61.5±9.5 y), while 35 patients were enrolled in the HC group (31.4% male, 57.5±8.9 y). Of the 15 total miRNAs differentially expressed between DCM and HC groups, two were selected for further analysis: miR-223-3p (upregulated) and miR-451a (downregulated). Functional gene network analysis revealed the highest-ranking gene network was involved in neurological disease, while the most overexpressed miRNA in this network (miR-233-3p) was noted to have over 100 targets, including CDKN1B and the insulin receptor. Serum cytokine analysis showed significant upregulation of several pro-inflammatory cytokines in the DCM cohort compared with the HC group.

Conclusion.

DCM patients demonstrated a set of unique circulating miRNAs in addition to a different serum inflammatory profile compared with HC. These miRNAs may potentially serve as targets for future therapeutic intervention or diagnostic/prognostic testing.
Analysis after posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens implantation: 17- to 19-year follow-up study
Authors: Sánchez-Ventosa Álvaro , Cano-Ortiz Antonio , González Cruces Timoteo , Villalba González Marta , Membrillo Alberto , Villarrubia Alberto
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of the Visian implantable collamer lens (ICL) in eyes with ≥17 years of follow-up.

Setting:

Single-center.

Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Methods:

70 eyes from 38 patients who underwent surgery between 2002 and 2006 with V4 ICL implantation were analyzed. Preintervention data included corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), refraction, and intraocular pressure (IOP). At the 19-year mark, CDVA, refraction, IOP, endothelial count, and vault were measured using Tomey Casia 2 anterior pole tomography, along with recording long-term events.

Results:

The operated patients had a spherical correction between −4 diopters (D) and −21 D and a cylinder up to 7.5 D. The mean CDVA (decimal) at the 17-year check-up was 0.89 ± 0.18, with a spherical equivalent of −1.05 ± 1.36 D. IOP has remained stable because mean measurements before surgery and currently were 15.16 ± 2.54 mm Hg and 16.19 ± 3.29 mm Hg, respectively. The endothelial cell count showed values of 2191 ± 386 cells/mm2, with a maximum of 2804 cells and a minimum of 1125 cells. Finally, the vault obtained was 348.53 ± 234.58 mm. Over the years, 2 eyes developed angle-closure glaucoma and 9 eyes were operated on for the development of anterior subcapsular cataracts.

Conclusions:

Visian ICL implantation demonstrated long-term visual and refractive stability, indicating it as a low-risk procedure. The ICL V4 model yielded satisfactory results for myopia and astigmatism correction after 17 years.
Longitudinal examination of associations with the onset of pediatric chronic pain at different pain locations
Authors: Rau Lisa-Marie , Humberg Clarissa , Könning Anna , Rosenthal Nicola , Stahlschmidt Lorin , Wager Julia
Published: May 2024

Chronic pain is a frequent phenomenon in pediatrics. Little research explores whether there are factors that uniquely predict or accompany the onset of new chronic pain in different locations of the body. In this study, we report pediatric pain data for 3 location subsamples—headache, abdominal pain, and musculoskeletal pain—of a large secondary school sample (N = 2280). We distinguished between participants who experienced an onset of chronic pain and participants who had no chronic pain at the respective pain location within a 1-year period. We used regression and multilevel models to compare the 2 groups regarding factors previously associated with chronic pain. Our results indicate that irrespective of location, the onset of chronic pain is predicted by psychosocial factors, in particular, symptoms of depression (odds ratio [OR] = 1.13-1.17, P < 0.01) and anxiety (OR = 1.12-1.21, P < 0.05). Although the onset of headache is predicted by psychosocial factors only, the onsets of abdominal and musculoskeletal pain are additionally predicted by physiological factors such as level of physical activity. Many of the predictors were also accompanying factors. Regarding chronic abdominal pain, sleep deficiency did not predict pain onset but was a co-occurring phenomenon. Our findings underline the importance of mental health factors in the pain onset at all 3 body locations, whereas in chronic abdominal and musculoskeletal pain, physiological factors should also be considered. Measures of model fit, however, indicate that the occurrence of chronic pain is more complex and not well predicted by these factors alone.
Deep Learning Diagnostic Classification of Cervical Images to Augment Colposcopic Impression
Authors: Aquilina André , Papagiannakis Emmanouil
Published: May 2024

Objective

A deep learning classifier that improves the accuracy of colposcopic impression.

Methods

Colposcopy images taken 56 seconds after acetic acid application were processed by a cervix detection algorithm to identify the cervical region. We optimized models based on the SegFormer architecture to classify each cervix as high-grade or negative/low-grade. The data were split into histologically stratified, random training, validation, and test subsets (80%–10%–10%). We replicated a 10-fold experiment to align with a prior study utilizing expert reviewer analysis of the same images. To evaluate the model's robustness across different cameras, we retrained it after dividing the dataset by camera type. Subsequently, we retrained the model on a new, histologically stratified random data split and integrated the results with patients' age and referral data to train a Gradient Boosted Tree model for final classification. Model accuracy was assessed by the receiver operating characteristic area under the curve (AUC), Youden's index (YI), sensitivity, and specificity compared to the histology.

Results

Out of 5,485 colposcopy images, 4,946 with histology and a visible cervix were used. The model's average performance in the 10-fold experiment was AUC = 0.75, YI = 0.37 (sensitivity = 63%, specificity = 74%), outperforming the experts' average YI of 0.16. Transferability across camera types was effective, with AUC = 0.70, YI = 0.33. Integrating image-based predictions with referral data improved outcomes to AUC = 0.81 and YI = 0.46. The use of model predictions alongside the original colposcopic impression boosted overall performance.

Conclusions

Deep learning cervical image classification demonstrated robustness and outperformed experts. Further improved by including additional patient information, it shows potential for clinical utility complementing colposcopy.
Impostor Phenomenon and Impact on Women Surgeons: A Canadian Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: McCall Jennifer , Pudwell Jessica , Pyper Jamie S , Nitsch Romy
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

This project aims to characterize the extent and nature of impostor phenomenon (IP) among women surgeons in Canada. IP is well documented among medical professionals and trainees. It is known to have significant impacts on mental health and career trajectory.

STUDY DESIGN:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of self-identifying women who have completed a surgical residency and currently or most recently practiced in Canada.

RESULTS:

Among 387 respondents, 98.7% have experienced IP. Median IP score corresponded to frequent impostor feelings or high impostorism. Self-doubt affects most women surgeons for the first time during training. It tends to be most intense in the first 5 years of practice and lessens over time. One hundred twelve (31.5%) surgeons experience self-doubt in the operating room (OR). Due to self-doubt, 110 (28.4%) respondents preferred to work with a more experienced assistant in the OR, whereas 40 (10.4%) stated that they would only operate with an experienced assistant. Few surgeons take on less OR time due to self-doubt (29 [7.5%]), but 60 (16.5%) take on fewer complex cases due to self-doubt. A small but important number of surgeons (11 [2.8%]) had given up operating altogether due to self-doubt. Due to feelings of self-doubt, 107 (21.4%) respondents were hesitant to take on a leadership role in the workplace.

CONCLUSIONS:

IP is a nearly universal experience among women surgeons and is influential in their professional lives. This study contributes to scientific knowledge that can advance gender equity in medicine and leadership.
Streptomyces pyxinae sp. nov. and Streptomyces pyxinicus sp. nov. isolated from lichen Pyxine cocoes (Sw.) Nyl.
Authors: Somphong Achiraya , Polyiam Wetchasart , Suriyachadkun Chanwit , Sripreechasak Paranee , Harunari Enjuro , Igarashi Yasuhiro , Tanasupawat Somboon , Phongsopitanun Wongsakorn
Published: May 2024

Two novel actinobacteria, designated as LP05-1T and LP11T, were isolated from the lichen Pyxine cocoes (Sw.) Nyl. collected in Bangkok, Thailand. Genotypic and phenotypic analyses revealed that both strains represented members of the genus Streptomyces. The 16S rRNA gene of LP05-1T showed the highest similarity to the genome of Streptomyces gelaticus (98.41 %), while the 16S rRNA gene of LP11T was most similar to that of Streptomyces cinerochromogenes (98.93 %). The major menaquinones in LP05-1T were MK-9(H8), MK-9(H6), MK-9(H4) and MK-9(H2), and in LP11T, they were MK-9(H8) and MK-9(H6). Both strains exhibited the major fatty acids iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C16 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0, with LP05-1T also possessing iso-C17 : 0. The polar lipids of LP05-1T included phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside and an unidentified lipid, while those of LP11T consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine, lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside, an unidentified aminolipid and an unidentified glycolipid. The digital DNA–DNA hybridisation (dDDH) and average nucleotide identity (ANI) values indicated that both strains are distinct from each other with values below 70 and 95 %, respectively. dDDH, ANI by blast (ANIb) and ANI by MUMmer (ANIm) values between LP05-1T and its closely related type strains were 26.07–26.80 %, 81.24–82.01 % and 86.82–86.96 %, respectively, while those for LP11T and its closely related type strains were 30.70–31.70 %, 84.09–85.31 % and 88.02–88.39 %, respectively. The results of the taxonomic investigation, including dDDH and ANI values, indicate that LP05-1T and LP11T are novel type strains of two novel species within the genus Streptomyces. The names proposed are Streptomyces pyxinae sp. nov. for strain LP05-1T (=TBRC 15494T, =NBRC 115434T) and Streptomyces pyxinicus sp. nov. for strain LP11T (=TBRC 15493T, =NBRC 115421T).
Sphingobacterium oryzagri sp. nov., isolated from rice paddy soil
Authors: Kim Seunghwan , Heo Jun , Choi Hyorim , Lee Daseul , Kwon Soon-Wo , Kim Yiseul
Published: May 2024

An aerobic, Gram-stain-negative and short rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated M6-31T, was isolated from rice paddy soil sampled in Miryang, Republic of Korea. Growth was observed at 4–35 °C (optimum, 28 °C), pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0–8.0) and in the presence of 0–4 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0 % w/v). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences grouped strain M6-31T with Sphingobacterium bambusae IBFC2009T, Sphingobacterium griseoflavum SCU-B140T and Sphingobacterium solani MLS-26-JM13-11T in the same clade, with the 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities ranging from 95.8 to 96.6 %. A genome-based phylogenetic tree reconstructed by using all publicly available Sphingobacterium genomes placed strain M6-31T with S. bambusae KACC 22910T, ‘Sphingobacterium deserti’ ACCC 05744T, S. griseoflavum CGMCC 1.12966T and Sphingobacterium paludis CGMCC 1.12801T. Orthologous average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain M6-31T and its closely related strains were lower than 74.6 and 22.0 %, respectively. The respiratory quinone was menaquinone-7, and the major polar lipid was phosphatidylethanolamine. The major fatty acids (>10 %) were C15 : 0 iso, C17 : 0 iso 3OH and summed feature 3. The phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genotypic data obtained in this study showed that strain M6-31T represents a novel species of the genus Sphingobacterium, for which the name Sphingobacterium oryzagri sp. nov. (type strain M6-31T=KACC 22765T=JCM 35893T) is proposed.
Hanbury-Brown–Twiss signature for clustered substructures probing primordial inhomogeneity in hot and dense QCD matter
Authors: Fukushima Kenji , Hidaka Yoshimasa , Inoue Katsuya , Shigaki Kenta , Yamaguchi Yorito
Published: May 2024

We propose a novel approach to probe primordial inhomogeneity in hot and dense matter which could be realized in noncentral heavy-ion collisions. Although the Hanbury Brown and Twiss (HBT) interferometry is commonly used to infer the system size, the cluster size should be detected if substructures emerge in space. We demonstrate that a signal peak in the HBT two-particle correlation stands at the relative momentum corresponding to the spatial scale of pseudo one-dimensional modulation. We assess detectability using the data prepared by an event generator (AMPT model) with clustering implemented in the particle distribution.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Euclidean flows, solitons, and wormholes in AdS space from M-theory
Authors: Anabalón Andrés , Arboleya Álvaro , Guarino Adolfo
Published: May 2024

Multiparametric families of nonsupersymmetric EAdS4 flows as well as asymptotically EAdS4 solitons and wormholes are constructed within the four-dimensional SO(8) gauged supergravity that describes the compactification of M-theory on S7. More concretely, the solutions are found within the so-called STU model that describes the U(1)4 invariant sector of the theory. The on-shell action and gravitational free energy are computed for the regular solutions, the latter being zero for the wormholes irrespective of supersymmetry. There are special loci in parameter space yielding solutions with enhanced (super)symmetry. Examples include a supersymmetric EAdS4 flow with SO(4)×SO(4) symmetry dual to a specific real mass deformation of ABJM on S3 as well as a nonsupersymmetric wormhole with SU(3)×U(1)2 symmetry. Uplift formulas for these and other examples to Euclidean solutions of 11-dimensional supergravity are presented and their complex nature discussed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Drifting towards multidimensional collaborative innovation: the co-evolution of collaboration networks and policy in China’s nuclear power industry
Authors: Liu Weiwei , Yao Jingyi , Bi Kexin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Nuclear power is a stable and reliable energy source that can improve energy structure while reducing carbon emissions, which is of great significance for environmental protection and combating climate change. As a unique industry, it is facing rare development opportunities in China and has broad market prospects. However, the characteristics of technical difficulty, loose organizational structure and uneven regional distribution limit the expansion of the nuclear power industry. This paper aims to a better understanding of the accumulation process for innovation capability from the perspective of network evolution and provides policy guidance for the market development of the nuclear power industry (NPI).

Design/methodology/approach

Methodologically, social network analysis is used to explore the co-evolution of multidimensional collaboration networks. First, the development and policy evolution of the NPI is introduced to divide the evolution periods. Then, the authors identify and analyze the core organizations, technologies and regions that promote nuclear power patent collaboration. Furthermore, three levels of collaboration networks based on organizations, technologies and regions are constructed to analyze the coevolution of patent networks in China’s NPI.

Findings

The results show that nuclear power enterprises always play the foremost role in the organizational collaboration network (OCN), and the dominance of foreign enterprises is replaced by Chinese state-owned enterprises in the third period. The technology hotspot has shifted from nuclear power plant construction to the control system. The regional collaboration network was initially formed in the coastal areas and gradually moved inland, with Guangdong and Beijing becoming the two cores of the network. The scale of three collaboration networks is still expanding but the speed has slowed down.

Originality/value

In response to the pain points of the NPI, this research focuses on multidimensional collaborative innovation, investigates the dynamic evolution process of collaborative innovation networks in China’s NPI and links policy evolution with network evolution creatively. The ultimate result not only helps nuclear power enterprises integrate innovative resources in complex environments but also promotes industrial upgrading and market development.
Gamifying sustainability with self-efficacy: motivating green behaviours in large industrial firms
Authors: Haque Shamima , Panda Debadrita , Ghosh Arpita
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to capture the challenges faced by large industrial firms in implementing employee green behaviour. It uses the gamification-based Octalysis framework for identifying motivational drives and entwins it to self-efficacy theory seeking to motivate and engage the employees through game techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses qualitative approach where semi-structured interviews were conducted through snowball sampling technique with managers in senior positions in power sector holding significant decision-making authority. The interviews were transcribed and were analysed thematically.

Findings

This study offers compelling evidence that industrial firms are grappling to inculcate pro-environmental behaviour largely losing on incentivising motivation. Gamification can provide an enjoyable framework balancing intrinsic and extrinsic motivational drives.

Practical implications

This study offers a framework applicable to organisations across sectors, addressing challenges in implementing green behaviour by leveraging four phases of game mechanics. It tackles issues related to motivation and demand for incentives by striking a balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.

Originality/value

This research stands out by incorporating game mechanics, specifically designed through Octalysis, to boost self-efficacy and encourage green behaviour among employees. Furthermore, it is in harmony with Sustainable Development Goals and circular principles.
The impact of institutional environment on auditor reporting: evidence from China's anti-corruption campaign
Authors: Liu Guoping , Sun Jerry
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine whether the institutional environment influences auditor reporting.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs China's anti-corruption campaign as an exogenous shock to its institutional environment and compares auditors' issuance of modified audit opinions (MAOs) to small-profit clients before and during the campaign.

Findings

This study documents that small-profit clients were more likely to receive MAOs during the anti-corruption campaign period than before, indicating that auditors issued more conservative audit opinions to small-profit clients because of the anti-corruption campaign. Additionally, this study finds that increased auditor conservatism was more pronounced for auditors of large clients.

Practical implications

This study suggests that a weak institutional environment adversely affects auditor conservatism. This offers valuable insights for governments and regulators to improve the audit environment and for audit firms to enhance auditors' integrity and independence.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the research on institutional environments and auditing by observing a unique exogenous event.
Factors influencing correction upon exposure to health misinformation on social media: the moderating role of active social media use
Authors: Sun Mingfei , Dong Xu
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The proliferation of health misinformation on social media has increasingly engaged scholarly interest. This research examines the determinants influencing users’ proactive correction of health misinformation, a crucial strategy in combatting health misbeliefs. Grounded in the elaboration likelihood model (ELM), this research investigates how factors including issue involvement, information literacy and active social media use impact health misinformation recognition and intention to correct it.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 413 social media users finished a national online questionnaire. SPSS 26.0, AMOS 21.0 and PROCESS Macro 4.1 were used to address the research hypotheses and questions.

Findings

Results indicated that issue involvement and information literacy both contribute to health misinformation correction intention (HMCI), while misinformation recognition acts as a mediator between information literacy and HMCI. Moreover, active social media use moderated the influence of information literacy on HMCI.

Originality/value

This study not only extends the ELM into the research domain of correcting health misinformation on social media but also enriches the perspective of individual fact-checking intention research by incorporating dimensions of users’ motivation, capability and behavioral patterns.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-09-2023-0505
Learning and development in highly dynamic VUCA contexts: a new framework for the L&D function
Authors: Garavan Thomas N. , Darcy Colette , Bierema Laura Lee
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This article introduces the special issue of Learning and Development in Highly-Dynamic VUCA Contexts. The issue reviews the concept of VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity), highlights its implications for the learning and development function and argues that learning and development play a critical role in helping organisations, people and the societal context in which they operate to work within and navigate VUCA contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The contributions to this special issue propose a novel learning and development framework that will inform L&D as the provision of training, learning and development activities in organisations within highly dynamic VUCA contexts and ensuring a strong external focus including organisational, people, community, economic and societal sustainability.

Findings

We, the authors, propose seven features of a strategic sustainability L&D function and L&D professional role that are a fit with highly dynamic VUCA contexts.

Practical implications

The proposed framework has important implications for the way in which L&D is structured, its key priorities and plans and the competencies of L&D professionals to add value to all stakeholders. We also emphasise that the work on the L&D function in highly dynamic VUCA contexts needs to be broader and move beyond a performance orientation.

Originality/value

The proposed strategic sustainability role for the L&D function expands theoretically our understanding of how L&D can have impacts at the nexus of the organisation and highly dynamic VUCA contexts, in addition to broadening the constellation of stakeholders that it potentially enhances.
Industrial structure optimization and green growth in China based on a population heterogeneity perspective
Authors: Li Tingting , Dou Wei , Han Jing , Zhang Wenqing
Published: May 2024

Population and industrial structure, as foundational characteristics of economic and social systems, exhibit significant spatial heterogeneity and dynamic evolutionary trends in their impact on sustainable economic and social development. However, existing research often employs subjective spatial categorization of samples and overlooks the dynamic transitions of influencing patterns, potentially leading to biases in empirical results. To address this, the current study, based on the calculation of green total factor productivity (GTFP) for 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2018, incorporates a finite mixture model. This model examines the objective heterogeneity and dynamic transition patterns of industrial structure's impact on GTFP, both from the perspectives of industrial structure advancement (ISA) and rationalization (ISR), and reveals the mechanisms of heterogeneity and dynamic changes from a population standpoint. The findings indicate that there are three patterns in the impact of industrial structure on GTFP, with nearly half of the provinces undergoing pattern transitions during the observation period. The key factors for these transitions are identified as the improvement in human capital levels and urbanization rates. In provinces like Beijing, Guangdong, and Shanghai, ISA and ISR significantly promote GTFP, with their effects further enhanced by increased urbanization and human capital levels. Conversely, in regions such as Shanxi and Hebei, ISA does not favor GTFP improvement, and while ISR can enhance GTFP, this positive effect diminishes with increasing urbanization and labor force numbers. This research not only enriches the literature on the positive interaction patterns between industrial and population structures but also provides a comprehensive analytical framework for governments to adopt differentiated policy measures for sustainable economic development.
Nucleus accumbens neuronal ensembles vary with cocaine reinforcement in male and female rats
Authors: Sortman Bo W. , Rakela Samantha , Paprotna Sarah , Cerci Berk , Warren Brandon L.
Published: May 2024

Neuronal ensembles in the medial prefrontal cortex mediate cocaine self‐administration via projections to the nucleus accumbens. We have recently shown that neuronal ensembles in the prelimbic cortex form rapidly to mediate cocaine self‐administration. However, the role of neuronal ensembles within the nucleus accumbens in initial cocaine‐seeking behaviour remains unknown. Here, we sought to expand the current literature by testing the necessity of the cocaine self‐administration ensemble in the nucleus accumbens core (NAcCore) 1 day after male and female rats acquire cocaine self‐administration by using the Daun02 inactivation procedure. We found that disrupting the NAcCore ensembles after a no‐cocaine reward‐seeking test increased subsequent cocaine seeking, while disrupting NAcCore ensembles following a cocaine self‐administration session decreased subsequent cocaine seeking. We then characterized neuronal cell type in the NAcCore using RNAscope in situ hybridization. In the no‐cocaine session, we saw reduced dopamine D1 type neuronal activation, while in the cocaine self‐administration session, we found preferential dopamine D1 type neuronal activity in the NAcCore.
Time spent on social media and depressive symptoms in university students: The mediating role of psychoactive substances
Authors: Sirtoli Rafaela , Fernández‐Rodríguez Rubén , Balboa‐Castillo Teresa , Rodrigues Renne , Garrido‐Miguel Miriam , Eumann Mesas Arthur , Morales Gladys , Molino Guidoni Camilo
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Although some studies have related social media use and depressive symptoms, little is known about the role of psychoactive substance use in this relationship. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the association between time spent on social media (TSSM) and depressive symptoms and to examine whether this relationship is mediated by psychoactive substances in students.

Methods

Our cross‐sectional analysis included a sample of students from a university in a large city in southern Brazil. The TSSM and tobacco frequency of consumption were self‐reported. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire. Alcohol and illicit drug‐related risks were assessed with the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test. Hayes's PROCESS macro was used for mediation analyses, adjusted for age, sex, body mass index and physical activity.

Results

A total of 3161 students were included, of which, 69.0% reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms. The association between TSSM and depressive symptoms was statistically significant and partially mediated by tobacco consumption (indirect effect [IE] = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.02–0.08), alcohol‐related risk (IE = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.14–0.25), and illicit drug‐related risk (IE = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.05–0.12).

Conclusion and Scientific Significance

Our data suggest a direct relationship between TSSM and depressive symptoms, with a partial mediation effect of psychoactive substance use. This study highlights the importance that public health initiatives aimed at preventing depressive problems in young adults should focus not only on TSSM, but also on controlling and reducing psychoactive substance use.
Narrative Matters: Ursula Le Guin's writings and adolescence
Authors: Oyebode Femi
Published: May 2024

Ursula K. Le Guin (1929–2018) was an influential American writer who was a leading literary figure of the 20th century. She is known for her contributions to the science fiction and fantasy genres. She wrote numerous novels, short stories, poems, and essays throughout her career, exploring various themes and pushing the boundaries of speculative fiction. In this article, I discuss Le Guin's writings on the developmental tasks of adolescence. In Le Guin's fiction, she examines how different social and cultural contexts determine patterns of maturation and the acquisition of the roles and responsibilities of adulthood. This article focuses on two novels, A Wizard of Earthsea from the Books of Earthsea (Le Guin, 2018), and Coming of Age in Karhide (Le Guin, 2017).
Who's to blame for the crisis of the healthcare system?
Authors: Jacques Olivier , Perrot Marion
Published: May 2024

Using an original survey, we probe Canadians' evaluation of the performance of their healthcare system and their attribution of the blame for the system's problems. We show that more vulnerable and left‐wing respondents are more likely to believe that the system is in crisis. In turn, respondents having negative performance evaluations are more likely to blame poor provincial organization rather than insufficient federal funding. Perceiving that the system is in crisis and that poor organization is the main problem are associated with support for the imposition of national standards by the federal government as a condition for additional healthcare transfers.
Clinical trial evaluating apomorphine oromucosal solution in Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Thijssen Eva , Tuk Bert , Cakici Michel , van Velze Veerle , Klaassen Erica , Merkus Frans , van Laar Teus , Kremer Philip , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: May 2024

Apomorphine, used to treat OFF episodes in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), is typically administered via subcutaneous injections. Administration of an oromucosal solution could offer a non‐invasive and user‐friendly alternative. This two‐part clinical study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and dose proportionality of a novel apomorphine hydrochloride oromucosal solution, as well as its relative bioavailability to subcutaneous apomorphine injection and apomorphine sublingual film. In part A of the study, 12 patients with PD received 2 mg oromucosal apomorphine (4% weight/volume) and 2 mg subcutaneous apomorphine in a randomized order, followed by 4 and 8 mg oromucosal apomorphine. In part B of the study, 13 patients with PD received 7 mg oromucosal apomorphine (7% weight/volume) and 30 mg sublingual apomorphine in a randomized order, followed by 14 mg oromucosal apomorphine. Washout between dose administrations in both study parts was at least 2 days. Safety, tolerability, and PK were assessed pre‐ and post‐dose. Both study parts showed that oromucosal apomorphine was generally well‐tolerated. Observed side effects were typical for apomorphine administration and included asymptomatic orthostatic hypotension, yawning, fatigue, and somnolence. Oromucosal apomorphine exposure increased with dose, although less than dose proportional. The mean (SD) maximum exposure reached with 14 mg oromucosal apomorphine was 753.0 (298.6) ng*min/mL (area under the plasma concentration–time curve from zero to infinity) and 8.0 (3.3) ng/mL (maximum plasma concentration). This was comparable to exposure reached after 2 mg subcutaneous apomorphine and approximately half of the exposure observed with 30 mg sublingual apomorphine. In summary, clinically relevant plasma concentrations could be reached in PD patients without tolerability issues.
Adenocarcinoma of anogenital mammary gland type arising from encapsulated papillary carcinoma: A rare vulvar tumor mimicking breast carcinoma
Authors: Tang Haiming , Laskin William B. , Luan Yi , McNiff Jennifer M. , Zhan Haiying
Published: May 2024

Anogenital mammary‐like glands are normal structures of the anogenital region. Tumors originating from these glands often exhibit a striking resemblance to their mammary gland counterparts. Herein, we present a rare case of adenocarcinoma of mammary gland type in the vulva of a 69‐year‐old female. Histopathologic examination revealed a complex lesion, which included a large encapsulated papillary carcinoma (EPC) with associated invasive carcinoma of mammary gland type and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). The invasive component consisted mostly of invasive ductal carcinoma of no special type, with a notable focus of invasive mucinous carcinoma. p40 immunostain demonstrated a lack of myoepithelial cells in both the EPC and invasive carcinoma, but such cells expressed p40 around the ducts involved by DCIS. The main component of this lesion, EPC, was characterized by a papillary proliferation within a cystic space surrounded by a fibrous capsule without a myoepithelial layer. The histopathologic features of anogenital EPC closely resemble cutaneous hidradenoma papilliferum. Indeed, there have been a few reports in the literature describing cases where in situ and invasive carcinoma arose from a preexisting hidradenoma papilliferum. As tumors of anogenital mammary‐like glands bear a closer resemblance to breast lesions than to skin tumors, we recommend that they be aligned with the classification of well‐established breast lesions rather than cutaneous adnexal tumors.
Heterospecific sociability and foraging behaviour of an invasive livebearer fish
Authors: Salazar‐Rueda Isabel , Gomez‐Maldonado Sebastian , Camacho‐Cervantes Morelia
Published: May 2024

Heterospecific sociability could enhance invasion success in social species since social non‐natives usually belong to small founding populations during the early stages of invasion. The twospot livebearer (Pseudoxiphophorus bimaculatus) is native to Central America and southern Mexico and is recently recognised as invasive in the Mexican Central Plateau, where it poses a threat to native species. Here, we evaluated twospot livebearer sociability towards either a conspecific pair or a shoal of four fish with one of four possible compositions, all conspecifics or two conspecifics combined with either two guppies, two porthole livebearers or two twoline skiffias. In a second experiment, foraging time, latency to feed, first fish to begin foraging and aggressive interactions were recorded under the same social conditions used in the sociability experiment, with body size included as a covariate in both experiments. All focal twospot livebearers spent significantly more time with the given shoals rather than with the available space in the aquarium. They showed a higher tendency to associate with small shoals of conspecifics than with pairs. Larger twospot livebearers associated more, regardless of the social condition. Twospot livebearer fed more with porthole livebearers, less with guppies and similarly with twoline skiffias. Latency to forage did not vary significantly between social conditions. Twospot livebearers were involved in more aggressive interactions when with guppies or porthole livebearers than when with native twoline skiffias or conspecifics. Twospot livebearers could gain benefits from associating with natives and conspecifics, but not with other invasive poeciliids. Heterospecific shoaling behaviour with natives may enhance invasion success during early stages when conspecifics are scarce while associating with other invasive poeciliids could lead to increased competition. Further research is needed on heterospecific interactions of non‐natives to better understand their behavioural role in invasion likelihood.
A prospective study of posttransplant cyclophosphamide for unrelated donor peripheral blood stem cell transplant with special attention to graft content and the impact of a higher γδ T cell dose
Authors: Jeurkar Chetan , Leiby Benjamin , Rashid Shaik , Gergis Usama , Grossso Dolores , Carabasi Matthew , Filicko‐O'Hara Joanne , O'Hara William , Klumpp Thomas , Porcu Pierluigi , Flomenberg Neal , Wagner John L.
Published: May 2024

Posttransplant cyclophosphamide (PtCy) has been shown to decrease post‐hematopoietic stem cell transplant acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD). In this study, PtCy was used in 44 patients along with mycophenolate and tacrolimus with HLA matched (29) and mismatched (15) unrelated donors to determine the impact of graft content on outcome; thus, all patients had flow cytometric analysis of their graft content including the number of B cells, NK cells, and various T cell subsets. Higher γδ T cell dose was associated with the development of acute GVHD (p = .0038). For PtCy, further studies of the cell product along with further graft manipulation, such as selective γδ T cell depletion, could potentially improve outcomes.
Aberrant cortical morphology patterns are associated with cognitive impairment in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Liu Yu Ting , Yang Yu Ting , Tang Chun Xiang , Ma Jun Qing , Kong Xiang , Li Jian Hua , Li Yan Ming , Liu Shu Yu , Zhou Chang Sheng , Wang Yun Fei , Zhang Long Jiang
Published: May 2024

A mounting body of evidences suggests that patients with chronic heart failure (HF) frequently experience cognitive impairments, but the neuroanatomical mechanism underlying these impairments remains elusive. In this retrospective study, 49 chronic HF patients and 49 healthy controls (HCs) underwent brain structural MRI scans and cognitive assessments. Cortical morphology index (cortical thickness, complexity, sulcal depth and gyrification) were evaluated. Correlations between cortical morphology and cognitive scores and clinical variables were explored. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors for predicting 3‐year major adverse cardiovascular events. Compared with HCs, patients with chronic HF exhibited decreased cognitive scores (p < .001) and decreased cortical thickness, sulcal depth and gyrification in brain regions involved cognition, sensorimotor, autonomic nervous system (family‐wise error correction, all p values <.05). Notably, HF duration and New York Heart Association (NYHA) demonstrated negative correlations with abnormal cortex morphology, particularly HF duration and thickness in left precentral gyrus (r = −.387, p = .006). Cortical morphology characteristics exhibited positive associations with global cognition, particularly cortical thickness in left pars opercularis (r = .476, p < .001). NYHA class is an independent risk factor for adverse outcome (p = .001). The observed correlation between abnormal cortical morphology and global cognition suggested that cortical morphology may serve as a promising imaging biomarker and provide insights into neuroanatomical underpinnings of cognitive impairment in patients with chronic HF.
A zone of columnar joints beneath the roof of a granitic pluton: The Okueyama granite, southwestern Japan
Authors: Chigira Masahiro , Kato Hironori
Published: May 2024

Igneous rocks are fractured during cooling from magma to form cooling joints, which are typically columnar joints in volcanic rocks, while orthogonal joints are considered typical for plutonic rocks. We performed a 3D study of joint systems in a granitic batholith of the Okueyama granite in western Japan, which has its roof and its internal structures from the roof to 1000 m downward exposed. We used an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to observe the joints in outcrops from various angles. Based on our study, we propose a schematic model for joint systems in a granitic pluton. A granitic pluton has zones of rock columns below the roof and next to the wall. The rock column zone below the roof is as thick as 300 m, and its higher portions form steep cliffs, probably because of increased resistance to weathering. The axes of the rock columns are nearly vertical below the roof and gently plunge next to the walls, with high intersection angles with the wall. The distribution of columnar joints near only the roof and walls suggests that the granite cooled more rapidly near the roof and walls than in the core of the pluton. When the granite was jointed by parallel joints during cooling, the rock slabs between the parallel joints near the roof and the walls are subdivided into columns with polygonal cross‐sections. This suggests that the granite was fractured by parallel joints at a temperature immediately below the solidus, after which the rock slabs were subdivided into rock columns during further cooling.
Forming a new perspective: Post‐structural approaches to determination of donor compatibility and post‐transplant assessment of allograft health
Authors: Nadat Fatima , Clark Brendan
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this review is to encourage a new perspective on the question of donor–recipient compatibility and post‐transplant assessment of graft health based on functional measures. The premise is that we should be better sighted on what (and how) the immune system responds toward rather than what is merely there. Continuance of the pursuit of further and better definition of antigens and antibodies is not however discouraged but seen as necessary to improved understanding of the structural correlates of functional immunity. There currently exists, in the opinion of the authors, an opportunity for histocompatibility and immunogenetics laboratories to develop and widen their scope of involvement into these new areas of laboratory activity in support and to the benefit of the transplant programmes they serve.
Comparison of student nurses' expectations and newly qualified nurses' experiences regarding clinical practice: A secondary analysis of a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Koppitz Andrea , Spichiger Frank , Keller‐Senn Anita , Bana Marika , Huber Claudia , Christie Derek , Bucher Thomas , Volken Thomas
Published: May 2024

Aim

To compare student nurses' expectations and newly qualified nurses' experiences regarding clinical practice in Switzerland 1 year after graduation.

Design

A secondary explorative analysis of a cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The data were sourced from the Swiss National Graduate Survey of Health Professionals covering six universities of applied sciences between 2016 and 2019, with information on three cohorts of bachelor student nurses, with a 1‐year follow‐up between each year. The participants were 533 bachelor‐prepared nursing graduates.

Results

The student nurses' overall expectations included the following top two prioritized aspects: ‘contributing to something important’ and ‘adequate time to spend with patients’. Newly graduated nurses' clinical practice experiences demonstrated that not all expectations were met 1 year after graduation. The largest gaps were found in ‘adequate time to spend with patients’, ‘work–life balance’ and experiencing ‘good management’.

Conclusion

The most crucial expectation gaps are related to having sufficient time to spend with patients and a good work–life balance. The most important result is whether there is a shortage of places for nurses to work rather than the oft‐cited shortage of nurses.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The expectations of Swiss newly qualified nurses can be better met by an assessment in the first year about which individual perceptions of workplace characteristics cause them to make choices to change something about their work, affect their job satisfaction or influence their intention to stay.

Impact

Few of the student nurses' expectations were met 1 year after graduation, therefore Swiss healthcare institutions should improve needs assessments to strengthen the nurse workforce starting early in employment. The results underscore the importance of a constructive management culture, such as that in magnet hospitals in the United States which underpins the philosophy of changing in nursing. The results can be used internationally as a benchmark and as a basis for introducing potential interventions for nurse retention.

Reporting Method

This study was reported following the Standardized Reporting of Secondary Data Analyses Checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

There were no patient or public contributions.

Trial and Protocol Registration

This study has not been registered.