bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir and efficacy of an alternate‐day treatment in hemodialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C infection
Authors: Chariyavilaskul Pajaree , Prompila Nantaporn , Wittayalertpanya Supeecha , Lekhyananda Sookruethai , Prasithsirikul Wisit , Trakarnvanich Thananda , Jeenapongsa Somboon , Susantitaphong Paweena , Kerr Stephen , Avihingsanon Anchalee , Tangkijvanich Pisit , Praditpornsilpa Kearkiat
Published: July 2024

Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) is a combination drug used for chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection. However, limited information exists regarding the pharmacokinetics of SOF/VEL and its metabolites in hemodialysis patients. We conducted a prospective investigation of the pharmacokinetic parameters of SOF/VEL after a single dose of SOF/VEL (400/100 mg) on days with and without dialysis in 12 Thai hemodialysis patients with chronic HCV infection, who had been undergoing hemodialysis for a duration of 0.5–20 years. Blood samples were collected before dose (0) and 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 8.0, and 12.0 h after dose. Dialysate samples were also collected before dose (0) and 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0 h after dose. Plasma and dialysate samples were quantified for SOF and its metabolite, GS‐331007, and VEL concentrations using a fully validated LCMS technique. In addition, a preliminary efficacy study was conducted using the proposed SOF/VEL dose reduction regimen in all patients. No differences in SOF/VEL PK parameters between on‐ and off‐dialysis studies. On the contrary, GS‐331007 exhibited a 30% reduction in the area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time 0 to 24 h (AUC0‐24h) on dialysis days compared with non‐dialysis days (AUC0‐24h ratio 0.68 vs. 1.04, respectively). The dialysis clearance of SOF and GS‐331007 was 9.35 (8.72–15.11) and 8.89 (8.52–14.07) mL/min, respectively. Subsequently, an alternate‐day regimen of SOF/VEL (400/100 mg) was administered for 12 weeks, resulting in an undetectable plasma HCV viral load without side effects. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate the efficacy and safety of our proposed dose reduction regimen.
Young people's experiences of addiction to nicotine vaping products: A qualitative analysis from Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Graham‐DeMello Anna , Sloan Olivia , Frost Katie , Hoek Janet
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Young people who use nicotine‐containing electronic cigarettes, or ‘vapes’, risk becoming addicted to these products. While several studies document dependency symptoms, few report in‐depth qualitative analyses of addiction.

Methods

We explored experiences of self‐reported vaping addiction using in‐depth interviews with 22 young people aged 16–20 years who vaped and lived in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our semi‐structured interview guide probed participants' early experiences and how they progressed from experimentation to addiction and explored how addiction affected their perceptions and daily routines. We used an inductive reflexive thematic analysis approach to interpret the data.

Results

Vaping's pervasiveness piqued participants' curiosity and encouraged trial. Most transitioned from experimentation to addiction within a couple of months; while a minority described a slower progression, nearly all felt irritable, angry or uncomfortable if they had to delay vaping. Intense cravings disrupted school and work routines and dictated how they spent their time. Many deeply regretted vaping and some suffered shame and embarrassment. These participants saw vaping as a threat to the well‐being of younger youth, which they tried to shield from addiction.

Discussion and Conclusions

We go beyond earlier studies by probing the burden vaping comes to represent, offering new insights into young people's everyday experiences of vaping addiction. In addition to informing health promotion campaigns, our findings could inform policy directions. Understanding the speed with which addiction can occur, its impact on daily life, and the considerable regret many felt could help inform a more strategic and sorely needed approach to reducing youth vaping.
Adolescent boys’ aggressive responses to perceived threats to their gender typicality
Authors: Stanaland Adam , Gaither Sarah , Gassman‐Pines Anna , Galvez‐Cepeda Daniela , Cimpian Andrei
Published: July 2024

When adult men are made to feel gender‐atypical, they often lash out with aggression, particularly when they are pressured (vs. autonomously motivated) to be gender‐typical. Here, we examined the development of this phenomenon. Specifically, we provided a first experimental test of whether threatening adolescent boys’ perceived gender typicality elicits aggression as a function of their pressured (vs. autonomous) motivation to be gender‐typical. We also investigated whether this causal link emerges as a function of boys’ chronological age versus pubertal development. Participants were a geographically diverse sample of 207 adolescent US boys (ages 10–14; 23.2% boys of color) and one of their parents. Boys played a “game” and received randomly‐assigned feedback that their score was atypical versus typical of their gender. For boys in mid‐to‐late puberty (but not before), feedback that they are gender‐atypical predicted an aggressive reaction, particularly among boys whose motivation to be gender‐typical was pressured (vs. autonomous). Next, we explored which aspects of boys’ social environments predicted their pressured motivation to be gender‐typical. Boys’ pressured motivation was positively correlated with their perceptions that their parents and peers would be “upset” if they deviated from gender norms, as well as with their parents’ endorsement of so‐called hegemonic beliefs about masculinity (i.e., that men should hold power over women). Parents with these beliefs resided in more conservative areas, had less formal education, and had lower incomes. Our results inform theorizing on gender identity development and lay the foundation for mitigating the harmful effects of gender typicality threat among adult men.

Research Highlights

Similar to young adult men, adolescent boys in mid‐to‐late puberty (but not before) responded with aggression to perceived threats to their gender typicality.

Aggression was heightened among boys whose motivation to be gender‐typical was pressured (i.e., driven by social expectations) rather than autonomous.

Which boys showed pressured motivation? Those whose parents endorsed hegemonic beliefs about masculinity (e.g., that men should have more power than people of other genders).

Hegemonic beliefs about masculinity were strongest among parents who resided in more conservative US counties, had less formal education, and had lower incomes.
Application of apical myocardial perfusion quantitative analysis by contrast‐enhanced ultrasound utilizing high‐frequency linear probe
Authors: Zhao Ruohan , Sun Wei , Li Yuman , Wu Anjun , Chen Xin , Lou Jie , Zhang Siyi , Tan Yuting , Zhang Li , Xie Mingxing , Lv Qing
Published: July 2024

Background

Due to insufficient near‐field resolution and artifacts, it is challenging to evaluate the left ventricular apical perfusion with phased‐array probes. By combining high‐frequency linear probe and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), imaging of apical myocardial perfusion could be improved. The study aims to evaluate the preliminary application of CEUS by high‐frequency linear probes to assess the apical perfusion.

Methods

The study enrolled retrospectively 91 patients to test the feasibility of the novel method. In protocol 1, patients were stratified into a group with left anterior descending artery (LAD) stenosis (N = 40) and a group without LAD stenosis or coronary artery disease (N = 41) based on the degree of coronary artery narrowing, quantified by >50% stenosis in coronary angiography. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed to test the diagnostic value of perfusion parameters. In protocol 2, the reproducibility of high‐frequency linear probe in apical perfusion analysis was compared with the conventional phased‐array probe in 30 patients.

Results

(1) The novel method is feasible in 81(89.01%) patients. (2) In protocol 1, to detect LAD stenosis, the best cut‐off of β, T, A, and MBF were 10.32, 3.28, 9.39, and 4.99, respectively. Area under the curve of β, T, A, and MBF were .880, .881, .761, and .880, respectively. (3) In protocol 2, compared with phased‐array probe, the quantitative analysis of high‐frequency linear probe is of high reproducibility and could get good curve fitting (R2 = .29 vs. R2 = .71, P < .01).

Conclusion

Observation of apical perfusion using this method is feasible and quantitative analysis allows an accurate and convenient identification of LAD stenosis. This method provides an alternative for patients who have difficulties in visualizing the apical region with a phased‐array probe.
Contrasting responses of drosophila pupal parasitoids to heat waves in the larval and adult stages
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Ren Weizhou , Jiang Wantong , Wang Jiatai , Xi Xinqiang
Published: July 2024

The life history of parasitoids is divided into a parasitic immature stage living in or on a host invertebrate and a free‐living adult stage. We still have little consensus on how larvae and adult parasitoids differ in their responses to environmental heat waves.

We tested the performance of two cosmopolitan drosophila pupal parasitoids, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and Trichopria drosophilae (Hymenoptera: Diapriidae), when exposed to 35 and 40°C heat waves in the larval and adult stage, respectively. Additionally, we tested if heat hardening in the larval stage influenced the thermal tolerance of adult parasitoids.

P. vindemiae had a higher tolerance to heat waves than T. drosophilae in both the larval and adult stages. We did not find significantly increased thermal tolerance of adult wasps that experienced heat hardening during the larval stage.

A 35°C heat wave had no effect on P. vindemiae. Larval T. drosophilae that experienced a 35°C heat wave had longer development times, but individuals that survived showed no significant decrease in longevity and fecundity compared with those without warming experience. By contrast, adult T. drosophilae suffered less mortality from the 35°C heat wave, but individuals that survived had significantly reduced longevity and fecundity. A 40°C heat wave resulted in higher mortality in the larval stage than in the adult stage for both parasitoid species.

Our study clearly revealed the contrasting responses to heat waves in the larval and adult stages of two parasitoids and highlighted the importance of ontogenetic differences in thermal tolerance in predicting parasitoid distributions and population dynamics.
Red gold: Copper and the U.S. mobilization campaign, 1950–3
Authors: Dorn Glenn J.
Published: July 2024

This paper examines U.S. planners’ persistent efforts to secure an adequate supply of a vital metal, copper, during the Korean War, and the numerous obstacles that plagued them. Their initial efforts to mobilize without imposing a disruptive, draconian control scheme quickly proved inadequate, all but forcing planners to adopt a much more regimented Controlled Materials Plan (CMP). The inability of U.S. planners to secure a strong supranational control regime through the International Materials Conference undercut efforts to coordinate international mineral allocation, exacerbated U.S. shortages, and spawned ill‐conceived compromises that eroded the effectiveness of the CMP. Finally, Truman's domestic opponents, never entirely reconciled to a rigid control regime, used the copper shortage to further weaken mobilization planning. In the end, the preparedness campaign, despite some remarkable successes, failed to achieve many of its goals due, in part, to a global copper shortage that Senator Burnet Maybank's Joint Committee on Defense Production called ‘perhaps the most serious material limiting factor on fulfillment of defense goals’.
Environmental drivers of food webs in charr and trout‐dominated cold‐water lakes
Authors: Kangosjärvi Henna , Amundsen Per‐Arne , Byström Pär , Finstad Anders G. , Power Michael , Sánchez‐Hernández Javier , Eloranta Antti P.
Published: July 2024

Cold‐water lakes situated in high latitudes and altitudes have pivotal socio‐ecological importance both globally and locally. However, they are increasingly threatened by multiple anthropogenic stressors, such as climate change, hydropower and invasive species. The development of efficient management strategies is therefore urgently needed and requires a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing the biodiversity and ecological processes of these ecosystems. We provide a holistic knowledge base for informed future research and management by addressing the interplay between local and global environmental drivers of food webs in Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus, Salmonidae) and brown trout (Salmo trutta, Salmonidae) dominated cold‐water lakes in Fennoscandia. The trophic niche and population dynamics of these generalist top consumers provide extensive insights into the effects of natural and anthropogenic drivers on food webs in intensively studied Fennoscandian cold‐water lakes, covering marked biogeographical gradients in abiotic and biotic conditions. Drawing on a synthesis of existing literature, our focus is on three pivotal drivers: (1) lake location and connectivity, (2) lake area and morphometry and (3) fish community composition. These drivers significantly influence the complexity and the origin and flow of energy in lake food webs, and ultimately the size structure of the charr and trout populations. Furthermore, we highlight ongoing environmental changes in Fennoscandian cold‐water lakes caused by hydropower and invasive species. Finally, we identify crucial knowledge gaps and propose management actions for improving the future state of Fennoscandian cold‐water lake ecosystems and their charr and trout populations.
Scale‐dependent mechanical performance variations in polylactic acid lattice structures fabricated via additive manufacturing
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Sarasini Fabrizio , Medori Elena , Berto Filippo , Razavi Nima
Published: July 2024

The objective of this research is to explore the scale effect on the mechanical properties of sheet‐based triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) uniform lattice structures fabricated with PLA (polylactic acid) under quasi‐static loading conditions. The scale dependency was evaluated by two additional breakdown categories, namely, wall thickness effect and unit cell size effect. Deformation mechanisms and failure modes as well as mechanical properties including stiffness, yield strength, first peak stress, and energy absorption based on the categories of wall thickness, unit cell size, and scale were evaluated experimentally. The assessment of the scale effect involved considering the combined influence of wall thickness and unit cell size. In addition, numerical analysis was also performed to investigate the stress distributions and compare with the experimental results for certain geometries. Ultimately, the relation between the normalized mechanical properties and relative density is evaluated and categorized, which can be used as an indication for future design practices.
Assessment of Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Mass Flux and Distributions in a Lake System Using Sediment Bed Passive Flux Meters and Ceramic Dosimeters
Authors: Haluska Alexander , Meder Andreas , Susset Bernd , Röhler Klaus , Seelig Renate , Ershadi Amirhossein , Cho Jay , Annable Michael D. , Grathwohl Peter
Published: July 2024

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent in the environment due to their chemical stability and can spread quickly in a lake system due to mixing. Passive samplers allow for time‐weighted average concentration monitoring and the ability to detect low concentrations, which are difficult to measure with conventional grab sampling. This study demonstrates the feasibility of deploying both ceramic dosimeters and Sediment Bed Passive Flux Meters (SBPFMs) to assess time integrated PFAS concentrations and fluxes, respectively, at a historically contaminated PFAS lake near Baden‐Baden, Germany. Long‐term surface water grab samples resulted in the detection of PFBA, PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHpA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFBS, PFHxS, and PFOS at a total concentration of approximately 1 μg/L. Dosimeters were deployed for 66 and 126 d, resulting in detected concentrations ranging from approximately 250 to 380 ng/L and 120 to 460 ng/L, respectively. The 66 d deployment resulted in the detection of PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHpA, and PFOA, whereas the 126 d deployment additionally detected PFBA, PFNA, PFDA, PFUnDA, PFDoDA, PFTeDA, PFBS, PFPeS, PFOS, PFNS, and PFDS. SBPFMs resulted in the detection of PFBA, PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHpA, PFOA, PFNA, PFUnA, PFTrDA, and PFBS and the determination of a total mass discharge of 5.6 g/d into the lake. Overall, dosimeters and SBPFMs are more sensitive than grab samples at detecting PFAS at low concentrations and can be used to better understand spatial distribution of PFAS in a lake system.
Study on mullitization of sillimanite group minerals and its effect on properties of the Al2O3‐SiC‐C gunning material
Authors: Ju Maoqi , Gao Dongsheng , Cong Peiyuan , Zhang Xiaocun , Cai Wei
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to compare and summarize the mullitization mechanism of the sillimanite group minerals and investigated its effect on the mechanical properties of Al2O3‐SiC‐C gunning materials. By comparing the phase composition and microstructure of kyanite, andalusite, and sillimanite at different temperatures, the mullitization mechanism of sillimanite group minerals was clarified. Furthermore, the Al2O3‐SiC‐C gunning materials with sillimanite group minerals addition were prepared by bauxite and fused brown corundum as aggregates, fused white corundum (≤0.045 mm), SiC (≤0.075 mm), α‐Al2O3 (≤10 µm), pitch sphere, SiO2 micropowder (≤2 µm) as a matrix, and silica sol as a binder. Then, the effect of the addition of sillimanite group minerals on the mechanical properties of Al2O3‐SiC‐C gunning materials was characterized. The results indicate that kyanite requires the lowest temperature for mullitization compared to andalusite and sillimanite. The mullitization process involves the migration of Al3+ and Si4+, resulting in a decrease in the lattice constant of sillimanite group minerals followed by the production of mullite and SiO2. Incorporating sillimanite group minerals into Al2O3‐SiC‐C gunning materials effectively controls their linear change rate after firing while enhancing their mechanical properties. Notably, the addition of kyanite yields superior performance in Al2O3‐SiC‐C gunning materials.
Broadband luminescence of Ni2+‐doped Zn(GaxAl1−x)2O4‐based glass–ceramics
Authors: Bour Francesco , Duclère Jean‐René , Carles Pierre , Chenu Sébastien , Allix Mathieu , Auguste Jean‐Louis , Humbert Georges , Delaizir Gaëlle
Published: July 2024

Ni2+‐doped glass–ceramics containing Zn(GaxAlx−1)2O4 crystals were successfully synthetized using both parent glass crystallization (Technique 1) and a direct doping method also called “frozen sorbet” (Technique 2) to get a ZnGa2O4 crystal/glass composite. The frozen sorbet technique allows the survival of ∼10 nm crystalline particles. Both materials are further crystallized near their respective temperature of crystallization to get glass–ceramics with the stabilization of Zn(GaxAlx−1)2O4 crystals. Although these two materials exhibit the same glass transition temperature, a shift in the crystallization temperature is observed. The glass–ceramics are transparent in the near infrared range, and the Ni2+ doping provides a broadband emission centered around 1300 nm with a full width at half‐maximum (FWHM) equal to 228 nm. The structure, microstructure, and thermal and optical properties of these materials are discussed in the present study.
Does interlanguage grammar project intermediate categories? Evidence of partial representation from one‐substitution by Chinese learners of English
Authors: Ma Zhigang , Yu Xiaomei
Published: July 2024

This study investigates how prepositional phrases within English noun phrases (e.g., the student of physics from Italy) are represented and processed by advanced Chinese‐speaking learners of English (henceforth L2ers). Using grammaticality judgment tasks and self‐paced reading tasks, we aim to examine the offline performance and the real‐time processing of English NP‐internal PPs in relation to the head nouns. To this end, two groups of participants were instructed to provide judgments of testing materials and to respond on‐line to experimental stimuli containing the proform one. Results indicate that highly proficient L2ers processed English NP‐internal PPs utterly differently from English controls in that they demonstrated almost no sensitivity to the existence of PPs as complements following one, mostly without consciously distinguishing them from PP adjuncts. To account for L2ers’ response patterns, we propose a partial representation hypothesis (PRH), claiming that L2ers tend to disregard intermediate categories containing PP‐complements in English NPs, thus only partially representing syntactic constituents of the target language. As a structural explanation, PRH awaits further corroboration and/or falsification from more empirical studies.
The effect of incontinence after radical prostatectomy on quality of life and frailty
Authors: Ata Aysenur , Goktas Sonay
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to determine the effect of incontinence after radical prostatectomy on quality of life and level of frailty. It is a descriptive study conducted with 107 radical prostatectomy patients who were hospitalized in the Urology Clinic of a training and research hospital in Istanbul between March–August 2021, and met the inclusion criteria. Data were collected using the Patient Identification Form, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ‐MLUTS), and the Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS). The mean fragility score of the patients was 7.82 ± 2.63, and 27% of them were ‘Mildly Frail’ and 25.2% were ‘Moderately Frail’. The ICIQ‐MLUTS voiding complaints sub‐dimension score of the patients was 8.62 ± 3.48, and the voiding complaints bother score was found to be 24.8 ± 9.85. The ICIQ‐MLUTS storage complaints sub‐dimension score was 12.13 ± 3.05, and the storage complaints bother score was 36.25 ± 9.02. The ICIQ‐MLUTS daytime urinary frequency subdimension score was 2.35 ± 0.93, and the daytime urinary frequency bother score was 6.94 ± 2.17. The ICIQ‐MLUTS nocturnal urinary frequency sub‐dimension score was 2.79 ± 0.88, and the nocturnal urinary frequency discomfort level score was found to be 7.37 ± 2.19. In this study, it was observed that patients' complaints regarding lower urinary tract symptoms and their quality of life were at a moderate level and the frailty levels increased with the increasing severity of incontinence symptoms after radical prostatectomy.
IBD functions as a double‐edged sword for food allergy in BALB/c mice model
Authors: Chen Bihua , Wu Yuhong , Wu Huan , Gao Jinyan , Meng Xuanyi , Chen Hongbing
Published: July 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and food allergy (FA) increase in tandem, but the potential impact of IBD on FA remains unclear. We sought to determine the role of IBD on FA. We first assessed the changes of FA‐related risk factors in dextran sulphate sodium salt (DSS) induced colitis mice model. Then, we evaluated the role of IBD on FA in mice. FA responses were determined using a clinical allergy score, body temperature change, serum antibody levels, cytokines level and mouse mast cell protease 1 (MMCP‐1) concentration. Accumulation of regulatory T cells was tested using flow cytometry. Intestinal changes were identified by histology, immunohistochemistry, gene expression and gut microbial community structure. In DSS‐induced colitis mice model, we found the intestinal damage, colonic neutrophil infiltration, and downregulation of splenic Th2 cytokines and Tregs in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). Moreover, we also found that IBD can alleviate the FA symptoms and lead to the significant downregulation of Th2 cytokines, serum IgE and MMCP‐1. However, IBD exacerbates intestinal injury and promotes the gene expression levels of IL‐33 and IL‐5 in the small intestine, damages the intestinal tissue structure and aggravates intestinal dysbiosis in FA. IBD functions as a double‐edged sword in FA. From the perspective of clinical symptoms and humoral immune responses, IBD can reduce FA response by downregulating Th2 cytokines. But from the perspective of the intestinal immune system, IBD potentially disrupts intestinal tolerance to food antigens by damaging intestinal tissue structure and causing intestinal dysbiosis.
Influence of boron incorporated biphasic calcium phosphate on mechanical, thermal, and biological properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride) membrane scaffold
Authors: Mutlu Büşra , Demirci Fatma , Duman Şeyma
Published: July 2024

In this paper, boron (B)‐doped biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP)/poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membrane scaffolds were developed by the combination of non‐solvent induced phase separation and lyophilization processes. In addition, the effects of the synthesized B‐incorporated BCP powders on the properties of the fabricated scaffolds were investigated. The physicochemical and morphological properties of the scaffolds were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy. The physical properties were evaluated by surface wettability and swelling measurements, whereas the mechanical properties were investigated by tensile strength measurements. The thermal behavior was determined by differential scanning calorimetry, the β‐crystallization ratio was calculated by FTIR, and the β‐phase structure was characterized by X‐ray diffraction. The bioactivity was evaluated in the simulated body fluid, and the cytotoxicity of the scaffolds was also investigated by performing in vitro cell culture experiments. The results showed that the incorporation of B into the PVDF matrix improved the hydrophilicity while reducing the degree of swelling of the scaffolds. Tensile strength was slightly reduced by the powder content, but yet the strength of all scaffolds was mechanically compatible with native bone. Increasing the B content up to 0.5 and 1 wt.% was improved the thermal properties, the β‐crystalline phase fraction, and thus the piezoelectricity. Furthermore, B‐doped BCP/PVDF‐based scaffolds significantly promoted bioactivity, cell viability, and proliferation without cytotoxicity, compared to the PVDF scaffold, depending on the B content. In conclusion, our results indicate that the PVDF‐based composites in the form of membrane scaffolds that support bone growth have the potential to be highly sought‐after candidates in the field of biomedical applications.
Factors influencing general practice nurse's implementation of culturally responsive care, using normalization process theory: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Oakley S. , Manning M. , Macfarlane A. , Murphy A. , Loftus‐Moran O. , Markey K.
Published: July 2024

Aims

To explore levers and barriers to providing culturally responsive care for general practice nurses (GPNs) using normalization process theory.

Design

A self‐administered online cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A participatory co‐designed adapted version of the normalization of complex interventions measure (NoMAD) validated tool was distributed to a convenience sample of GPNs between December 2022 and February 2023. The sample comprised of GPNs working in general practice services in Ireland (n = 122). Data were analysed using descriptive and analytical statistics (Pearson correlations) and principles of content analysis. This study was conducted and reported in line with the Consensus‐Based Checklist for Reporting of Survey Studies (CROSS).

Results

GPNs in this study indicated their familiarity with, acknowledged the importance of and were committed to, providing culturally responsive care. However, implementing culturally responsive care in daily practice was problematic due to insufficient education and training, scarcity of resources and supports and a lack of organizational leadership. Subsequently, GPNs experience difficulties adapting everyday practices to respond appropriately to the care needs of culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) patients.

Conclusion

This analysis highlights the necessity of exploring the intricacies of factors that influence capabilities and capacity for providing culturally responsive care. Despite demonstrating awareness of the importance of providing nursing care that responds to the needs of CaLD patients, GPNs do not have full confidence or capacity to integrate culturally responsive care into their daily work practices.

Impact

Using normalization process theory, this study elucidates for the first time how GPNs in Ireland make sense of, legitimize, enact and sustain culturally responsive care as a routine way of working. It illuminates the multitude of micro‐level (individual), meso‐level (organizational) and macro‐level (structural) factors that require attention for normalizing culturally responsive care in general practice services.

Patient or Public Contribution

The study question was identified in a participatory research prioritization for Irish research about migrant health that involved migrants in the process.
Regulating data: Evidence from corporate America
Authors: Motoki Fabio , Pinto Jedson
Published: July 2024

Using the enforcement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) as our empirical setting, we examine how stricter data privacy and data protection requirements affect shareholder wealth, firms’ investment decisions, and data breaches. Consistent with consumer privacy negatively affecting firms, we find that U.S. firms exposed to the GDPR lose 0.7%–1.1% in market value relative to unexposed firms in the week in which the regulation became enforceable. We find that the decrease in market value is partially attributable to a decrease in sales growth. GDPR‐exposed firms increase their investment above that of control firms and become less likely to report a data breach post‐regulation. The decrease in data breach likelihood is statistically and economically significant, resulting in up to 34 million records not being leaked, which costs between $205 million and $561 million to firms in breach mitigation expenses per year. The results of this study should be of interest to academics and regulators worldwide by examining the costs and benefits of regulating data.
Context Matters: Variation in the Shortsightedness of European Climate Policy
Authors: Gheuens Jana
Published: July 2024

When governments are faced with long‐term issues like climate change, it is often argued that they bias the short term over the long term, leading to inadequate policy responses. However, the shortsightedness of European Union (EU) climate governance has varied over time and between policy areas. This suggests that, under certain conditions, EU policy‐makers can formulate policies for the long term. This article examines the shortsighted mechanisms in the decision‐making of the European Commission, European Parliament and Council of the EU on two groups of cases: (1) the 2030 Climate Framework and the Fit for 55 Package and (2) the 2014, 2019 and 2023 Regulations on the CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars. The article reveals that responsiveness to electoral and interest group concerns differs amongst EU institutions, and depending on the shortsightedness of these concerns, their own shortsightedness may likewise vary.
An app promoting weight gain prevention via healthy behaviours amongst young women with a family history of breast cancer: Acceptability and usability assessment
Authors: Pegington Mary , Hawkes Rhiannon E. , Davies Alan , Mueller Julia , Howell Anthony , Gareth Evans D. , Howell Sacha J. , French David P. , Harvie Michelle
Published: July 2024

Background

Breast cancer is the most frequent female malignancy in the UK. Around 20% of cases are linked to weight gain, excess weight and health behaviours. We designed a weight gain prevention, health behaviour intervention for young women at increased risk.

Methods

The study comprised a single arm observational study over 2 months testing acceptability and usability of the intervention: online group welcome event, app and private Facebook group. Females aged 18–35 years at moderate or high risk of breast cancer (>17% lifetime risk) were recruited via invite letters and social media posts. The app included behaviour change techniques and education content. Online questionnaires were completed at baseline, as well as at 1 and 2 months. We also assessed feasibility of study procedures.

Results

Both recruitment methods were successful. Thirty‐five women were recruited, 26% via social media posts. Median age was 33 (interquartile range = 28.2–34.5) years, the majority (94.1%) were of White ethnicity. Thirty‐four participants were included in the analyses, of which 94% downloaded the app. Median self‐monitoring logs per participant during the study period was 10.0 (interquartile range = 4.8–28.8). App quality mean (SD) score was 3.7 (0.6) at 1 and 2 months (scale: 1–5). Eighty‐nine per cent rated the app at average or above at 1 month and 75.0% at 2 months. Nineteen women (55.9%) joined the Facebook group and there were 61 comments and 83 reactions and votes from participants during the study period.

Conclusions

This first iteration of the app and intervention was well received and is suitable to progress to the next stage of refining and further testing.
Tyndall, Rayleigh, Mei, and Raman scattering: Understanding their role in aesthetics
Authors: Humzah M. D.
Published: July 2024

The role of various light scattering phenomena in aesthetics and clinical practice is explored in this review. Four main types of light scattering, Tyndall, Rayleigh, Mie, and Raman, are discussed. Each type is explained in terms of its physical principles and its applications in aesthetic medicine. Tyndall scattering is relevant in understanding the blue appearance of certain dermal fillers. Rayleigh scattering contributes to skin tone perception and plays a role in certain laser treatments. Mie scattering is important in laser hair removal and the appearance of skin conditions like melasma. Raman scattering, while primarily used in research, shows promise for non‐invasive skin analysis, personalized skincare, treatment monitoring, and early skin cancer detection. It is important to understand these scattering phenomena for optimizing light‐based aesthetic procedures and developing effective treatments. Properly applying the appropriate scattering theory based on relative particle size is crucial in clinical aesthetic practice.
Model of predicting fear of cancer recurrence in patients with digestive tract cancer: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Li Yaru , Wang Lei , Zhang Zhenhua , Zhang Xinyu , Yu Xiao , Ma Yanmei
Published: July 2024

Aims

To investigate the incidence of fear of cancer recurrence in patients with digestive tract cancers analyse its influencing factors, and further establish a visual risk prediction model.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among 570 patients with digestive tract tumours admitted to a local hospital, from May 2023 to December 2023 by convenient sampling method. Univariate analysis and logistic analysis were performed on the influencing factors, and the risk prediction nomogram model of fear of cancer recurrence in patients with digestive tract cancer was constructed by using R 4.1.3 software. ROC curve was used to evaluate the differentiation of the nomogram model. The calibration curve and Hosmer‐Lemeshow goodness of fit test were used to evaluate the consistency of the model. This study was reported using the TRIPOD checklist.

Results

In this study, 272 (47.7%) patients developed fear of recurrence. The risk prediction model of recurrence fear column chart for digestive tract cancer patients incorporated six variables of gender, therapy, alimentary tract haemorrhage, pain, depression and social support. The C‐statistic was (.976), and the calibration curve showed that the predicted probability was more in line with the actual probability of occurrence, and the decision curve showed that the predictive model had better practicality.

Conclusion

The column‐line diagram prediction model constructed in this study is effective and facilitates timely intervention and management by healthcare professionals based on their risk factors.

Impact

Nomogram is helpful to calculate the risk probability of FCR in patients with digestive tract cancer, identify FCR patients in time, and formulate comprehensive and personalized countermeasures, to provide a good quality of life and prolong the survival cycle of patients with digestive tract cancer.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participants were hospitalized patients or patients with digestive tract cancer undergoing follow‐up. First of all, before the investigation and research, a team is formed to discuss the concept, research purpose, method, significance, etc., and determine the research tools. Second, by reasonably explaining the study to patients to seek informed consent from the patient and sign it, patients filled in the questionnaire independently. For patients with low education levels who could not fill in the questionnaire, the team members made objective explanations to help them choose reasonable options.
Parotid saliva and blood biomarkers in juvenile idiopathic arthritis in relation to temporomandibular joint magnetic resonance imaging findings
Authors: Carlsson Alexandra Dimitrijevic , Wahlund Kerstin , Ghafouri Bijar , Kindgren Erik , Frodlund Martina , Salé Hanna , Klintström Eva , Johansson Carin Starkhammar , Alstergren Per
Published: July 2024

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) often affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) caused by an abnormal immune system that includes overactive inflammatory processes. Salivary biomarkers may be a powerful tool that can help establishing diagnosis, prognosis and monitor disease progress.

Objective

The objective was to investigate biomarkers in parotid saliva and blood plasma in relation to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in patients with JIA and healthy individuals.

Methods

Forty‐five children aged 6 to 16 years with JIA and 16 healthy age‐ and sex‐matched controls were included. Unstimulated parotid saliva samples and venous blood were collected. Biochemical analyses were performed for the cytokine biomarkers. The participants underwent MR imaging of the TMJs, where changes in the inflammatory and the damage domains were assessed.

Results

In the JIA patients, lower concentrations of IL‐6R and gp130 were found in parotid saliva than in plasma. Higher concentrations of IL‐6 were found in parotid saliva than in plasma. IL‐6, IL‐6R and gp130 in parotid saliva explained the presence of bone marrow oedema and effusion in the JIA patients.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the IL‐6 family in parotid saliva is associated with TMJ bone marrow oedema and effusion in patients with JIA, suggesting that IL‐6 has promising properties as a parotid saliva biomarker for TMJ inflammatory activity.
On the (robust) ex post stability of constitutions
Authors: Jeong Daeyoung , Kim Semin
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the concept of ex post stability in voting systems, shifting the focus from the traditional ex ante perspective, where preferences are uncertain, to a setting where agents' preferences are fully known. We offer a comprehensive characterization of ex post stable constitutions within deterministic voting rule environments. We bridge the theoretical gap between ex post and ex ante stability, shedding light on their intricate relationship and implications for the design and evolution of voting systems. Additionally, our research further evaluates the resilience of these constitutions to changes in the voting environment, particularly their flexibility in response to varying alternative rule sets. This study not only contributes to a deeper understanding of constitutional stability but also provides insights into the dynamics of collective decision‐making processes.
Azole resistance in Aspergillus flavus and associated fitness cost
Authors: Djenontin Elie , Debourgogne Anne , Mousavi Bita , Delhaes Laurence , Cornet Muriel , Valsecchi Isabel , Adebo Makiath , Guillot Jacques , Botterel Françoise , Dannaoui Eric
Published: July 2024

Background

The resistance of Aspergillus flavus to the azole antifungal drugs is an emerging problem. Mutations in the molecular targets of the azole antifungals ‐ CYP 51 A, B and C ‐ are possible mechanisms of resistance, but data to confirm this hypothesis are scarce. In addition, the behaviour of resistant strains in vitro and in vivo is not yet understood.

Objectives

This study had 3 objectives. The first was to compare the sequences of CYP51 A, B and C in resistant and susceptible strains of A. flavus. The second was to look for the existence of a fitness cost associated with resistance. The third was to evaluate the activity of voriconazole and posaconazole on resistant strains in the Galleria mellonella model.

Methods

The CYP51 A, B and C sequences of seven resistant strains with those of four susceptible strains are compared. Fitness costs were assessed by growing the strains in RPMI medium and testing their virulence in G. mellonella larvae. In addition, G. mellonella larvae infected with strains of A. flavus were treated with voriconazole and posaconazole.

Results

In the CYP51A sequences, we found the A91T, C708T and A1296T nucleotide substitutions only in the resistant strains. The resistant strains showed a fitness cost with reduced in vitro growth and reduced virulence in G. mellonella. In vivo resistance to posaconazole is confirmed in a strain with the highest MIC for this antifungal agent.

Conclusions

These results allow to conclude that some substitutions in CYP51 genes, in particular CYP51A, contribute to resistance to azole drugs in A. flavus. The study of the relationship between drug dosage and treatment duration with resistance and the reduction of fitness costs in resistant strains is a major perspective of this study. This work could help to establish recommendations for the treatment of infections with resistant strains of A. flavus.
Exogenous alpha‐lipoic acid treatments reduce the oxidative damage caused by drought stress in two grapevine rootstocks
Authors: Daler Selda , Kaya Ozkan
Published: July 2024

Drought represents the predominant and most critical abiotic stress challenge within the domain of viticulture, necessitating the identification and application of efficacious strategies to ameliorate its deleterious effects. In the contemporary realm of abiotic stress management, the deployment of α‐lipoic acid (α‐Lipo), known for its antioxidant capabilities, as an exogenous treatment has been investigated for mitigating various abiotic stresses in numerous plant species, yet a detailed exploration of its efficacy in alleviating drought stress in grapevines remains to be conclusively determined. This study aimed to elucidate the adaptive mechanisms against drought stress by examining the effects of different α‐Lipo concentrations (0, 1, 25 and 50 μM) applied on the foliar under well‐irrigated and drought conditions on American grapevine rootstocks ‘1103 P' (drought tolerant) and ‘3309 C' (drought sensitive). Our findings revealed that the efficacy of α‐Lipo varied significantly depending on rootstock type and irrigation status. 1103 P rootstock treated with 1 μM α‐Lipo under well‐irrigated conditions showed greater positive effects on growth traits, photosynthetic and osmotic parameters. In contrast, in rootstock 3309 C under the same conditions, the highest effects were obtained at 25 and 50 μM α‐Lipo concentrations. Under drought stress conditions, 50 μM α‐Lipo treatment improved physiological parameters (chlorophyll content, proportional water coverage and stomatal conductance), proline content and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT and APX), while reducing electrolyte leakage and MDA levels in both rootstocks, showing a strong potential to increase oxidative stress tolerance and sustain plant growth. Heatmap visualization analysis confirmed the data obtained from Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and revealed that 1103 P treated with 50 μM α‐Lipo under drought stress conditions exhibited superior physiological performance compared to 3309 C under the same conditions. This indicates the importance of potential rootstock differences in stress adaptation or α‐Lipo uptake efficiency. These findings suggest that α‐Lipo holds promise as an eco‐friendly, natural bio‐stimulant for use in arid environments, contributing to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices in the foreseeable future.
Assessing genetic parameters for first parity reproductive traits for early selection in Saanen × Beetal goats of India
Authors: Sahoo Shweta , Alex Rani , Vohra Vikas , Mukherjee Sabyasachi , Gowane Gopal R.
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to evaluate the genetic parameters of first parity reproductive traits. Information on 762 reproductive records on Saanen × Beetal (S × B) goats reared for approximately five decades was collected from ICAR‐National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana (1973–2020). For genetic analysis, single‐trait and multiple‐trait animal models were used. Gibbs sampler for animal model (GSAM) approach was used for estimating (co)variance components of reproductive traits. Six different single‐trait animal models (with or without maternal and environmental effects) were used and the deviance information criterion (DIC) determined the best model. The least squares mean for age at first service (AFS), age at first kidding (AFK), service period (SP), dry period (DP), gestation length (GL), kidding interval (KI), litter weight (LW), number of kids born (NKB) and number of female kids born (NFKB) in first parity were 526.99 ± 4.86, 662.96 ± 5.03, 219.11 ± 6.25, 109.38 ± 6.00, 150.48 ± 0.27, 356.63 ± 4.80 days, 3.87 ± 0.05 kg, 1.27 ± 0.02 and 0.67 ± 0.03, respectively. Lower heritability estimates for these reproductive traits revealed a sparse scope for genetic improvement. Multivariate analysis using Model 1 was carried out to evaluate the genetic and phenotypic correlation of these nine reproductive traits. The genetic correlation of DP and SP was negatively with LW, NKB and NFKB, which is favourable as reduction in SP and DP can improve these economically important traits through indirect selection. Consistent efforts towards genetic improvement of these goat flock poses a promising future for meat industry owing to high prolificacy and good reproductive potential in this flock.