bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Modelling neurocardiac physiology and diseases using human pluripotent stem cells: current progress and future prospects
Authors: Wu Hsueh‐Fu , Hamilton Charlotte , Porritt Harrison , Winbo Annika , Zeltner Nadja 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThroughout our lifetime the heart executes cycles of contraction and relaxation to meet the body's ever‐changing metabolic needs. This vital function is continuously regulated by the autonomic nervous system. Cardiovascular dysfunction and autonomic dysregulation are also closely associated; however, the degrees of cause and effect are not always readily discernible. Thus, to better understand cardiovascular disorders, it is crucial to develop model systems that can be used to study the neurocardiac interaction in healthy and diseased states. Human pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology offers a unique human‐based modelling system that allows for studies of disease effects on the cells of the heart and autonomic neurons as well as of their interaction. In this review, we summarize current understanding of the embryonic development of the autonomic, cardiac and neurocardiac systems, their regulation, as well as recent progress of in vitro modelling systems based on hiPSCs. We further discuss the advantages and limitations of hiPSC‐based models in neurocardiac research.
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Grazing intensity alters network complexity and predator–prey relationships in the soil microbiome
Authors: Camuy-Vélez Lennel A. , Banerjee Samiran , Sedivec Kevin 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Grasslands are recognized as important reservoirs of soil biodiversity. Livestock grazing is implemented as a grassland management strategy to improve soil quality and enhance plant diversity. Soil microbial communities play a pivotal role in grassland ecosystems, so it is important to examine whether grazing practices affect the soil microbiome. Previous studies on grazing have primarily focused on bacteria and fungi, overlooking an important group—protists. Protists are vital in soil microbiomes as they drive nutrient availability and trophic interactions. Determining the impact of grazing on protists and their relationships with bacterial and fungal communities is important for understanding soil microbiome dynamics in grazed ecosystems. In this study, we investigated soil bacterial, fungal, and protist communities under four grazing levels: no grazing, moderate-use grazing, full-use grazing, and heavy-use grazing. Our results showed that heavy grazing led to a greater diversity of protists with specific groups, such as Discoba and Conosa, increasing in abundance. We also found strong associations between protist and bacterial/fungal members, indicating their intricate relationships within the soil microbiome. For example, the abundance of predatory protists increased under grazing while arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi decreased. Notably, arbuscular mycorrhizae were negatively associated with predatory groups. Furthermore, we observed that microbial network complexity increased with grazing intensity, with fungal members playing an important role in the network. Overall, our study reports the impact of temporal grazing intensity on soil microbial dynamics and highlights the importance of considering protist ecology when evaluating the effects of grazing on belowground communities in grassland ecosystems.

IMPORTANCE
The significance of this study lies in its exploration of the effects of temporal grazing intensity on the dynamics of the soil microbiome, specifically focusing on the often-neglected role of protists. Our findings provide insights into the complex relationships between protists, bacteria, and fungi, emphasizing their impact on trophic interactions in the soil. Gaining a better understanding of these dynamics is essential for developing effective strategies for grassland management and conservation, underscoring the importance of incorporating protist ecology into microbiome studies in grasslands.
Characterization of a
Bifidobacterium animalis
subsp.
lactis
reference strain based on ecology and transcriptomics
Authors: Lugli Gabriele Andrea , Argentini Chiara , Tarracchini Chiara , Mancabelli Leonardo , Viappiani Alice , Anzalone Rosaria , Angelini Leonora , Alessandri Giulia , Longhi Giulia , Bianchi Massimiliano G. , Taurino Giuseppe , Bussolati Ovidio , Milani Christian , Turroni Francesca , Ventura Marco 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Bifidobacteria are recognized as health-promoting bacteria that reside in the human gut, helping in the digestion of fiber, preventing infections, and producing essential compounds like vitamins. To date,
Bifidobacterium animalis
subsp.
lactis
, together with
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
,
Bifidobacterium bifidum
,
Bifidobacterium breve,
and
Bifidobacterium longum
, represents one of the species that are used as probiotic bacteria. Despite the extensive and detailed scientific research conducted on this microbial taxon, the molecular mechanisms by which
B. animalis
subsp.
lactis
exerts health benefits to its host are still largely unknown. Thus, we dissected the genetic repertoire and phylogenetic relationship of 162 strains of
B. animalis
subsp.
lactis
to select a representative reference strain of this taxon suitable for investigating its interaction with the host. The
B. animalis
subsp.
lactis
PRL2013 strain, which was isolated by a mucosal sample of a healthy adult, was chosen as the reference of the monophyletic cluster of human origin and revealed a greater adhesion index than that observed for another
B. animalis
subsp.
lactis
strain used in the industry as a probiotic supplement. Transcriptomics analyses of PRL2013 strain, when exposed to human cell monolayers, revealed 291 significantly upregulated genes, among which were found genes predicted to encode extracellular structures that may directly interact with human cells, such as extracellular polymeric substances, wall teichoic acids, and pili.

IMPORTANCE

To date, many
Bifidobacterium animalis
subsp.
lactis
strains have been isolated from human fecal samples. However, their presence in these samples does not necessarily suggest an ability to colonize the human gut. Furthermore, probiotics of non-human origin may not effectively interact with the gut epithelium, resulting in transient bacteria of the gut microbiota. In vitro experiments with human cells revealed that
B. animalis
subsp.
lactis
PRL2013, an autochthonous member of the human gut, shows colonization capability, leading to future applications in functional foods.
Opportunities for guiding development: insights from first-year life science majors’ use of metacognition
Authors: Stanton Julie Dangremond , Halmo Stephanie M. , Carter Rayna J. , Yamini Kira A. , Ososanya Deborah 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

Students with strong metacognitive skills are positioned to learn and achieve more than peers who are still developing their metacognition. Yet, many students come to college without well-developed metacognitive skills. As part of a longitudinal study on metacognitive development, we asked when, why, and how first-year life science majors use metacognitive skills of planning, monitoring, and evaluating. Guided by the metacognition framework, we collected data from 52 undergraduates at three institutions using semi-structured interviews. We found that first-year students seek study recommendations from instructors, peers, and online resources when they plan their study strategies. First-year students struggle to accurately monitor their understanding and benefit when instructors help them confront what they do not yet know. First-year students evaluate the effectiveness of their study plans at two specific points: immediately after taking an exam and/or after receiving their grade on an exam. While first-year students may be particularly open to suggestions on how to learn, they may need help debunking myths about learning. First-year students acknowledge they are still learning to monitor and welcome formative assessments that help them improve the accuracy of their monitoring. First-year students may be primed to receive guidance on their metacognition at the points when they are most likely to evaluate the effectiveness of their study strategies and plans. Based on our results, we offer suggestions for instructors who want to support first-year students to further develop their metacognition.
Evaluating the efficacy of endotracheal and intranasal epinephrine administration in severely asphyxic bradycardic newborn lambs: a randomised preclinical study
Authors: de Jager Justine , Pothof Romy , Crossley Kelly J , Schmölzer Georg M , te Pas Arjan B , Galinsky Robert , Tran Nhi T , Songstad Nils Thomas , Klingenberg Claus , Hooper Stuart B , Polglase Graeme R , Roberts Calum T 
Published: September 2024

Objective
Intravenous epinephrine administration is preferred during neonatal resuscitation, but may not always be rapidly administered due to lack of equipment or trained staff. We aimed to compare the time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and post-ROSC haemodynamics between intravenous, endotracheal (ET) and intranasal (IN) epinephrine in severely asphyxic, bradycardic newborn lambs.

Methods
After instrumentation, severe asphyxia (heart rate <60 bpm, blood pressure ~10 mm Hg) was induced by clamping the cord in near-term lambs. Resuscitation was initiated with ventilation followed by chest compressions. Lambs were randomly assigned to receive intravenous (0.02 mg/kg), ET (0.1 mg/kg) or IN (0.1 mg/kg) epinephrine. If ROSC was not achieved after three allocated treatment doses, rescue intravenous epinephrine was administered. After ROSC, lambs were ventilated for 60 min.

Results
ROSC in response to allocated treatment occurred in 8/8 (100%) intravenous lambs, 4/7 (57%) ET lambs and 5/7 (71%) IN lambs. Mean (SD) time to ROSC was 173 (32) seconds in the intravenous group, 360 (211) seconds in the ET group and 401 (175) seconds in the IN group (p<0.05 intravenous vs IN). Blood pressure and cerebral oxygen delivery were highest in the intravenous group immediately post-ROSC (p<0.05), whereas the ET group sustained the highest blood pressure over the 60-min observation (p<0.05).

Conclusion
Our study supports neonatal resuscitation guidelines, highlighting intravenous administration as the most effective route for epinephrine. ET and IN epinephrine should only be considered when intravenous access is delayed or not feasible.
Carbon dioxide laser excision as a novel treatment for large xanthelasma palpebrarum: long-term efficacy and safety
Authors: Wang Dingqiao , Mao Zhen , Li Zuohong , Gao Wuyou , Qu Yixin , Li Xingyi , Jiang Yuzhen , Lin Xianchai 
Published: September 2024

AimsThis study evaluates the long-term efficacy and safety of carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser excision as a novel treatment for large xanthelasma palpebrarum.MethodsThe study included 295 patients diagnosed with xanthelasma palpebrarum, categorised as 246 patients with grade I, 16 with grade II, 22 patients with grade III and 11 with grade IV lesions. All underwent CO₂ laser excision and were followed up for a 12-month period. Treatment efficacy was assessed through clearance and recurrence rates, evaluated using digital photography and complications were recorded.ResultsThe participant group consisted of 66 males and 229 females, with an average age of 41.7±11.6 years. Clearance rates exceeded 99% for grades I–III and were around 95% for grade IV lesions. The recurrence rate was 6.8%, with higher recurrence rates observed in lesions over 2 mm in height compared with those under 2 mm (p<0.001). The main complications over the 12-month follow-up were scarring (4.4%), hyperpigmentation (8.1%) and hypopigmentation (8.5%), with no severe complications reported.ConclusionCO₂ laser excision emerges as a precise, minimally invasive and effective modality for treating xanthelasma palpebrarum, marking a significant advancement in treatment modalities. Further research is required to reinforce these results and refine treatment protocols.
One year cumulative incidence and risk factors associated with workplace violence within the ambulance service in a Swedish region: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Viking Magnus , Hugelius Karin , Höglund Erik , Kurland Lisa 
Published: September 2024

ObjectiveTo measure the 1 year cumulative incidence of and analyse the risk factors associated with workplace violence directed towards the ambulance service in a Swedish region.DesignProspective cohort study.SettingThe ambulance services in Örebro County Council (Sweden) contain approximately 300 000 inhabitants.ParticipantsAll ambulance missions during the period of 12 months (n=28 640) were assessed.Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcome measure was workplace violence together with the associated risk factors.ResultsThe 1 year cumulative incidence of workplace violence within the ambulance service was 0.7%. Non-physical violence was most common. There was an increased odds for violence when the patient was under the influence of alcohol or drugs or suffering from mental illness. There was an association between the dispatch categories intoxication, unconsciousness or mental health problems and workplace violence against ambulance personnel. The offenders were mostly men aged 18–29 and workplace violence was more likely to occur in public places.ConclusionsThe 1 year cumulative incidence of workplace violence within the regional ambulance service was low in comparison to that of previous research. The overall regression model had low explanatory power, indicating that the phenomenon is complex and that additional variables need to be taken into account when trying to predict when workplace violence will occur. Additional research is needed to fully understand why workplace violence within the ambulance service occurs and how to mitigate such situations.
Demographic and surgical characteristics in patients who do not achieve minimal important change in the KOOS Sport/Rec and QoL after ACL reconstruction: a comparative study from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry
Authors: Simonsson Rebecca , Bittar Judy , Kaarre Janina , Zsidai Bálint , Sansone Mikael , Piussi Ramana , Musahl Volker , Irrgang James , Samuelsson Kristian , Senorski Eric Hamrin 
Published: September 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to compare demographic and surgical characteristics between patients who do and do not achieve minimal important change (MIC) in the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Sports and Recreation (Sport/Rec) and Quality of Life (QoL) subscales 1 year after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.DesignComparative cross-sectional.SettingThe MIC for the KOOS Sport/Rec subscale was ≥12.1 and ≥18.3 for the KOOS QoL subscale from before surgery to 1-year follow-up using data from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry.ParticipantsIn total 16 131 patients were included: 11 172 (69%) with no MIC for the Sport/Rec scale, and 10 641 (66%) for the QoL.ResultsPatients with no MIC for Sport/Rec and QoL had a higher body mass index (BMI) (24.8±3.5 vs 24.6±3.3 and 24.7±3.5 vs 24.6±3.2, respectively, p<0.0001), were younger (years) at time of surgery (28.5±10.3 vs 29.1±10.8 and 27.4±9.8 vs 29.7±11.0, respectively, p=0.0002 and <0.0001), had longer time from injury to surgery (months) (Sports/Rec 22.0±38.5 vs 19.3±36.6, respectively, p=0.0002), and greater rates of concomitant cartilage injuries especially to the lateral femoral condyle (22.7% vs 19.4% and 23.3% vs 19.0%, respectively, p=0.001 and p=0.005) compared with patients who achieved the MIC. A smaller proportion of patients treated with a hamstring tendon autograft had no MIC (91.4%) compared with patients with MIC (94.1%).ConclusionsPatients with no MIC for KOOS Sport/Rec and QoL subscales had a higher BMI, longer time from injury to surgery and were younger at the time of surgery compared with patients who did achieve MIC. Although differences were small, they may reframe management strategies with patients who have these characteristics.
Nurses’ perceptions of patient safety culture and adverse events in Hail City, Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional approach to improving healthcare safety
Authors: Alrasheeday Awatif M , Alkubati Sameer A , Alqalah Talal Ali Hussein , Alrubaiee Gamil Ghaleb , Pasay-An Eddieson , Alshammari Bushra , Abdullah Saleh O , Loutfy Ahmed 
Published: September 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess nurses’ perceptions of patient safety culture (PSC) and its relationship with adverse events in Hail City, Saudi Arabia.DesignA cross-sectional study was conducted between 1 August 2023 and the end of November 2023 at 4 governmental hospitals and 28 primary healthcare centres.SettingHail City, Saudi Arabia.ParticipantsData were collected from 336 nurses using 3 instruments: demographic and work-related questions, PSC and adverse events.ResultsNurses had positive responses in the dimensions of ‘teamwork within units’ (76.86%) and ‘frequency of events reported’ (77.87%) but negative responses in the dimensions of ‘handoffs and transitions’ (18.75%), ‘staffing’ (20.90%), ‘non-punitive response to errors’ (31.83%), ‘teamwork across units’ (34.15%), ‘supervisor/manager expectations’ (43.22%) and ‘overall perception of patient safety’ (43.23%). Significant associations were found between nationality, experience, current position and total safety culture, with p values of 0.015, 0.046 and 0.027, respectively. Nurses with high-ranking perceptions of PSC in ‘handoffs and transitions,’ ‘staffing’ and ‘teamwork across hospital units’ reported a lower incidence of adverse events than those with low-ranking perceptions, particularly in reporting pressure ulcers (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.78 to 0.94, OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.94 and OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.70 to 0.99, respectively) (p<0.05). Nurses with high-ranking perceptions of PSC in UK ‘handoffs and transitions’ reported a lower incidence of patient falls. Similarly, those with high-ranking perceptions in both ‘handoffs and transitions’ and ‘overall perception of patient safety reported a lower incidence of adverse events compared with those with low-ranking perceptions, especially in reporting adverse drug events (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.76 to 0.91 and OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.92, respectively) (p<0.05).ConclusionFrom a nursing perspective, hospital PSCs have both strengths and weaknesses. Examples include low trust in leadership, staffing, error-reporting and handoffs. Therefore, to improve staffing, communication, handoffs, teamwork, and leadership, interventions should focus on weak areas of low confidence and high rates of adverse events.
Finding linkages between the Sustainable Development Goals in Uganda: a key to attain health and well-being for all
Authors: Wanyana Irene , Helldén Daniel , Ndejjo Rawlance , Murzabekov Marat , Alfven Tobias , Wanyenze Rhoda K , Viberg Nina 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionWhile Uganda has made significant strides towards the 2030 Agenda, several development challenges persist, including a high disease burden, poverty and the effects of climate change. Multisectoral collaboration is critical in achieving Uganda’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); however, most sectors in the country still operate in isolation. Understanding the linkages between the goals in Uganda is critical for accelerating progress on health and the SDGs. This study aimed at taking initial steps in investigating the linkages between health and other SDGs in Uganda.MethodsA 2-day workshop with 29 multisectoral stakeholders was conducted to explore the nature of linkages between the SDGs nationally in Uganda. Results were analysed using the SDG synergies approach and presented using a cross-impact matrix to show the nature and strength of linkages between the goals.ResultsOverall, there were more positive linkages between the SDGs than negative ones. Progress on SDG 10 (reduced inequalities) was considered to have the most positive influence on the 2030 Agenda. SDG 3 (good health and well-being) was the goal that was perceived to be most positively affected if progress was made on other goals. The economic goals, SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth) and SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure) were the goals that promoted other goals the least. Negative linkages were perceived between SDG 13 (climate action) and the economic goals (SDG 8; SDG 9).ConclusionThe findings reveal that promoting linkages were perceived to be the majority, but some restricting linkages between the SDGs also exist. The promoting linkages suggest a need for integrated approaches in attaining SDG 3 and other SDGs in Uganda. Further addressing inequalities in their different forms, policy reforms, local community engagements and continuous monitoring are critical for sustainable development in Uganda.
Challenges faced by migrant populations in complying with public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia: A qualitative study
Authors: Loganathan Tharani , Zaini Amirah Zafirah , Kunpeuk Watinee , Suphanchaimat Rapeepong , Yi Huso , Farwin Aysha , Abdul Majid Hazreen 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted migrants in Malaysia, raising concerns about the effectiveness of public health measures. This study aims to investigate challenges faced by migrant populations in complying with public health measures during the pandemic.MethodsWe conducted 29 in-depth interviews with stakeholders between April 2022 and February 2023. Thematic analysis was conducted, and results were organised by major COVID-19 public health measures: (1) movement restrictions, (2) non-pharmaceutical interventions, (3) COVID-19 screening and testing and (4) quarantine, isolation and hospitalisations.ResultsMigrants encountered difficulties complying with the movement control orders due to livelihood crises and a lack of understanding of regulations. Financial constraints hindered migrants’ ability to purchase quality face masks, and they lacked the comprehension of the importance of non-pharmaceutical interventions for disease prevention. In the absence of government intervention, non-governmental organisations and international organisations played an important role in providing essential food aid, health information, face masks and hygiene products, and other services to migrants. Despite encouragement to seek testing and treatment, migrants were deterred by fear of immigration enforcement and unaffordable fees. Overcrowded living conditions made physical distancing, isolation and quarantine challenging. Many avoided government-designated quarantine centres due to financial constraints and fear of arrest. Delayed medical treatment may have resulted in high COVID-19 mortality among migrants.ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic highlighted significant health disparities experienced by migrants in Malaysia, including the double health and livelihood crises, and limited access to essential health information, resources, healthcare and social protection. Urgent reforms are needed to ensure migrant-inclusive health policies, enhance outbreak preparedness and prevent unnecessary suffering and deaths among migrants during both pandemic and non-pandemic periods.