bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distal phalanx radiographic grading features in long‐toe, underrun heel in Egypt Baladi donkeys (Equus asinus)
Authors: El‐Marakby Ahmed Ibrahim , Mostafa Mohamed Barakat , Metwally Asmaa Abdelsalam , Soliman Ahmed Sayed , Abdelgalil Ahmed Ismael
Published: April 2024

Background

Long‐toe, underrun heel conformation is a term referring to a long toe, collapsed frog and atrophied heels in equids, including donkeys. However, data on the radiological evaluation and classification of the long‐toe, underrun heel conformation in the donkey are relatively limited.

Objectives

The present study aimed to determine the relationship between the dorsal hoof wall angle and the radiological angular and linear features of the distal phalanx in long‐toe, underrun heel conformation in Egypt Baladi donkeys.

Study design

Post‐mortem collected feet.

Methods

Forty‐seven front hooves with long‐toe, underrun heels from cadavers were radiographically examined. Lateromedial radiometric parameters included dorsal hoof wall angle, heel angle, distal phalanx angle, distal phalanx solar border angle, coronet angle, axis of the distal phalanx angle, proximal palmar cortex angle, distal phalanx to ground distance, distal phalanx to frog distance, distal phalanx to toe distance, foot length and hoof balance%. Long‐toe, underrun heel cadaver feet were classified into four groups according to the dorsal hoof wall angle (DHWA).

Results

The DHWA of the first group was less than 58.25°–54° (<58.25°:54°), the second group was less than 54°–52° (<54°:52°), the third group was less than 52°–47° (<52°:47°), and the fourth group was less than 47° (<47°). From the first to the fourth groups DHWA, heel angle (HA), distal phalanx solar border angle (P3BA), distal phalanx angle (P3A), axis of the distal phalanx angle (LP3A), proximal palmar cortex angle (PPCA), distal phalanx to frog distance (P3F) and foot length (FL) were decreased, while the coronet angle (CA), distal phalanx to toe distance (P3T) and hoof balance (HB) percentages were increased. Statistical analysis revealed strong and moderate correlations between DHWA and HA, P3A, P3BA, LP3A, PPCA, P3G, P3F and P3T.

Main limitation

Cadaver feet were collected from different yards and body sizes, the collection of radiographic parameters without trimming and the lack of a record of the work history of these donkeys.

Conclusion

This study will assist veterinarians in evaluating the long‐toe, underrun heel conformation during hoof trimming.
Corrosion behavior of Al4SiC4/SiC ceramics exposed to molten calcium‐magnesium‐alumino‐silicate at 1350°C in air
Authors: Tanaka Atsuko , Gubarevich Anna , Nishimura Toshiyuki , Yoshida Katsumi
Published: April 2024

Al4SiC4 shows excellent heat resistance, thermal shock resistance, machinability, and oxidation resistance. We focused on Al4SiC4‐based ceramics with SiC as a non‐oxide matrix for ceramic matrix composites for aircraft jet engines. In this study, monolithic Al4SiC4 and Al4SiC4/SiC ceramics were fabricated by hot‐pressing, and a corrosion test against molten calcium‐magnesium‐alumino‐silicate (CMAS) was conducted at 1350°C for 12–100 h in air, and their corrosion behavior was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy results revealed that severe damage was not observed at the interface between CMAS and the samples after the CMAS corrosion test. The recession of Al4SiC4‐100, ‐10, and SiC‐100 after corrosion for 100 h was 80–90 µm, and that of Al4SiC4‐50 was the highest of all samples and the value was 130 µm. The dissolution behavior of the oxidation layer into molten CMAS via a corrosion reaction was dependent on the composition of both the sample and the oxidation layer, the thickness, and the microstructure of the oxidation layers. The dominant mechanism of reaction between CMAS and Al4SiC4‐100, ‐90, and ‐50 samples was concluded to be the dissolution of the oxidation products, while in SiC‐100 and Al4SiC4‐10 samples, the dominant reaction was determined to be direct corrosion of the surface with CMAS.
Modification of liposomes: preparation, purpose, methods and the application in food
Authors: Liu Boqun , Zan Liting , Li Xiaohui , Cai Yue , Hao Guijie
Published: April 2024

The use of liposomes as an effective delivery system has been well documented. This system offers protection to functional components from various environmental factors such as light, oxygen, temperature and pH. However, liposomes also present certain limitations, including poor targeting, instability, short in vivo circulation time and low utilisation of encapsulated substances. These drawbacks can be addressed through the modification of liposomes. This review article examines the preparation of modified liposomes using methods such as the thin‐film method, reverse evaporation method and injection method. The purpose of liposome modification and its application in food are discussed, with a focus on enhancing targeting, prolonging in vivo circulation time, improving stability and ensuring the stability of encapsulated substances during storage. Additionally, the article explores modification methods such as polyethylene glycol modification, peptide and protein modification and polysaccharide modification. This comprehensive review aims to contribute to a better understanding of liposome modification and provide valuable references for the development of novel modified liposomes.
Construction and validation of key genes‐related prognosis model in children with acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Huang Fan , Ming Chuan , Jiang Yuqian , Li Chenli , Tan Cheng
Published: April 2024

Introduction

To identify the differentially expressed genes of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and construct and verify a survival prognosis model combined with patient survival information.

Methods

The TARGET database was searched to identify differentially expressed peripheral blood genes in children with AML and healthy children. A gene set functional analysis and pathway analysis were performed using gene ontology and the KEGG pathway. A prognostic model for children with AML was constructed using univariate Cox, LASSO Cox regression and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were adopted to assess the predictive capacity of the prognostic models.

Results

In total, 1640 differentially expressed genes were screened (1119 upregulated and 521 downregulated genes). The differentially expressed genes were mainly involved in nutrient metabolism and cytochrome P450 metabolism. Six key genes related to the prognosis of AML, FAM157A, GPR78, IRX5, RP4‐800G7.1, RP11‐179H18.5 and RP11‐61N20.3, were identified. Kaplan–Meier curves indicated that 3‐year and 5‐year overall survival was significantly higher in the low‐risk group than in the high‐risk group. The area under the ROC curve was 0.722. At different stages of AML, FAM157A and RP4‐800G7.1 exhibited significant differences in expression. The expression levels of FAM157A were significantly decreased in AML, whereas the expression levels of GPR78, IRX5, RP4‐800G7.1, RP11‐179H18.5 and RP11‐61N20.3 were significantly increased in AML.

Conclusion

A prognosis‐related gene model of AML was successfully constructed, and the expression levels of the model genes varied with AML stage.
Ultrahigh breakdown strength of NaNbO3‐based dielectric ceramics for high‐voltage capacitor application
Authors: Zheng Qiuyu , Xie Bing , Li Tianyu , Li Zhiqing , Wu Qingqing , Tian Yahui , Liu Zhiyong , Luo Huajie
Published: April 2024

Dielectric ceramics have attracted significant attention in power electronic systems, owing to their exceptional charging and discharging speeds, as well as their high power density. However, simultaneously achieving a high recoverable energy density (Wrec) and high efficiency (η) in high‐voltage dielectric ceramics remains a challenge for applications where a high breakdown electric field (Eb) is required. In this study, high‐quality (1 – x)NaNbO3–xSr0.7Bi0.2(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 [(1 – x)NN–xSBMN] ceramics were prepared based on an optimization strategy combining phase structure with microstructural regulation. A quasilinear P–E loop with negligible hysteresis was realized in the ceramic with x = 0.4, excellent Wrec of 5.61 J/cm3, and high η of 85.1% obtained at a largely improved Eb of 710 kV/cm. To the best of our knowledge, the Eb of 710 kV/cm is one of the highest values achieved in dielectric ceramics to date. The noticeable reduction in grain size (∼0.95 µm) and increased bandgap improve the Eb to an ultra‐high level, which is a crucial factor in high energy storage density. The coexistence of a few antiferroelectric phases and the dominant paraelectric phase is the structural origin of the comprehensive energy‐storage performance improvement. Therefore, our research develops a unique approach to unleash the potential in NaNbO3‐based ceramics, holding great promise for application in high‐voltage dielectric capacitors.
Patent eligibility after Alice: Evidence from USPTO patent examination
Authors: Frumkin Jesse , Pairolero Nicholas A. , Tesfayesus Asrat , Toole Andrew A.
Published: April 2024

In a series of decisions over the last decade, the Supreme Court of the United States altered the classes of inventions that are eligible for patent protection—a body of law called subject matter eligibility. One of the more contentious of these decisions, Alice Corp. versus CLS Bank International (Alice), questioned the patentability of a broad class of inventions involving abstract ideas, particularly in digital technologies. Exploiting a quasinatural experiment, we find that the Alice decision reduced favorable patent eligibility decisions by 31% and significantly and persistently increased legal uncertainty in patent examination by 26% for a broad set of technologies. Our analysis quantifies how legal decisions can limit patent protection and highlights the need for further research on how greater legal uncertainty affects upstream investments supporting invention and downstream innovations fueling growth.
Using multi‐criteria decision‐making methods in prioritizing structural flood control solutions: A case study from Iran
Authors: Hamidifar Hossein , Yaghoubi Faezeh , Rowinski Pawel M.
Published: April 2024

Effective management of flood risks requires the prioritization of appropriate flood control solutions. This study aims to prioritize structural flood control options using multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) methods. Four MCDM methods, namely analytic hierarchy process, technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution, multi‐criteria optimization and compromise solution, and Fuzzy‐VIKOR are employed to assess and rank the flood control options based on multiple criteria. Field surveys, interviews with local authorities and experts, and on‐site assessments of existing flood control structures constituted the primary data collection methods. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of reservoir dams, retention basins, and levees as viable solutions. Conversely, flood control gates and the no‐project options were assigned lower priorities. The findings highlight the importance of considering multiple MCDM methods to account for variations in rankings. The study provides valuable insights into the decision‐making process for prioritizing flood control options in the study area. These findings can assist policymakers and stakeholders in effectively allocating resources and implementing appropriate structural flood control measures to mitigate flood risks.
The trajectory of anxiety in therapy: The role of ACEs
Authors: Witting Alyssa Banford , Anderson Shayne R. , Johnson Lee N. , Barrow Betsy Hughes , Peery Allie
Published: April 2024

The connection between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and anxiety disorders is well‐documented. Additionally, therapy has been shown to be effective at reducing anxiety symptoms. Yet more needs to be known about how ACEs may shape the process of therapy and the trajectory of anxiety symptoms. This study was designed to compare the trajectory of improvement in anxiety symptoms over the course of 12 sessions of therapy in adults (N = 472), who reported more (greater than four) and fewer (fewer than four) ACEs using a multigroup latent growth curve analysis. Data were drawn from the Marriage and Family Therapy Practice Research Network database. Results suggested that the rate of improvement in those with more and fewer ACEs was not significantly different; however, those with more ACEs had a significantly higher average starting point of anxiety symptoms.
Metabolic sensing in AgRP regulates sucrose preference and dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Reichenbach Alex , Dempsey Harry , Andrews Zane B.
Published: April 2024

Hunger increases the motivation for calorie consumption, often at the expense of low‐taste appeal. However, the neural mechanisms integrating calorie‐sensing with increased motivation for calorie consumption remain unknown. Agouti‐related peptide (AgRP) neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus sense hunger, and the ingestion of caloric solutions promotes dopamine release in the absence of sweet taste perception. Therefore, we hypothesised that metabolic‐sensing of hunger by AgRP neurons would be essential to promote dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens in response to caloric, but not non‐caloric solutions. Moreover, we examined whether metabolic sensing in AgRP neurons affected taste preference for bitter solutions under conditions of energy need. Here we show that impaired metabolic sensing in AgRP neurons attenuated nucleus accumbens dopamine release in response to sucrose, but not saccharin, consumption. Furthermore, metabolic sensing in AgRP neurons was essential to distinguish nucleus accumbens dopamine response to sucrose consumption when compared with saccharin. Under conditions of hunger, metabolic sensing in AgRP neurons increased the preference for sucrose solutions laced with the bitter tastant, quinine, to ensure calorie consumption, whereas mice with impaired metabolic sensing in AgRP neurons maintained a strong aversion to sucrose/quinine solutions despite ongoing hunger. In conclusion, we demonstrate normal metabolic sensing in AgRP neurons drives the preference for calorie consumption, primarily when needed, by engaging dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens.
Conduction slowing, conduction block and temporal dispersion in demyelinating, dysmyelinating and axonal neuropathies: Electrophysiology meets pathology
Authors: Uncini Antonino , Cavallaro Tiziana , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Manganelli Fiore , Vallat Jean‐Michel
Published: April 2024

Nerve conduction studies are usually the first diagnostic step in peripheral nerve disorders and their results are the basis for planning further investigations. However, there are some commonplaces in the interpretation of electrodiagnostic findings in peripheral neuropathies that, although useful in the everyday practice, may be misleading: (1) conduction block and abnormal temporal dispersion are distinctive features of acquired demyelinating disorders; (2) hereditary neuropathies are characterized by uniform slowing of conduction velocity; (3) axonal neuropathies are simply diagnosed by reduced amplitude of motor and sensory nerve action potentials with normal or slightly slow conduction velocity. In this review, we reappraise the occurrence of uniform and non‐uniform conduction velocity slowing, conduction block and temporal dispersion in demyelinating, dysmyelinating and axonal neuropathies attempting, with a translational approach, a correlation between electrophysiological and pathological features as derived from sensory nerve biopsy in patients and animal models. Additionally, we provide some hints to navigate in this complex field.
Rosacea treatment with 532 nm KTP versus 595 nm pulsed dye laser—A prospective, controlled study
Authors: Nguyen Lynhda , Dierckxsens Cathy , Kerscher Martina , Hartjen Anna , Schneider Stefan W. , Herberger Katharina
Published: April 2024

Background

Pulsed‐dye lasers (PDL) are one of the standard therapies for rosacea, but alternatives are needed.

Aims

To compare the efficacy and safety of the variable‐sequenced, large‐spot 532 nm KTP laser to the 595 nm PDL in treating rosacea.

Materials and Methods

A prospective, controlled, evaluator‐blinded study. Patients were treated with either a KTP or PDL with 1–3 sessions at intervals of 6–8 weeks. A follow‐up visit was scheduled on Week 6 post‐treatment. Clinical outcome was assessed by computer‐assisted analysis and by patients and two blinded dermatologists. Pain intensity during treatment and adverse events were documented.

Results

Forty‐five patients (mean age 51 years) were allocated in a 2:1 ratio to either the KTP or PDL. Erythema in both treatment arms decreased significantly (p < 0.01). Clinical evaluation revealed high improvement. Mean pain intensity was significantly lower with the KTP (2.5/10) than with the PDL (4.1/10). Both lasers showed a good safety profile. Relevant purpura was only seen in the PDL group.

Conclusions

Both the variable‐sequenced, large‐spot KTP and the PDL demonstrated comparable efficacy in treatment of rosacea. Regarding safety, the KTP exhibited fewer post‐treatment reactions. The KTP might serve as a potential alternative to PDL in the treatment of rosacea.
A Contingency View of Impression Management: Heterogeneous Investor Responses to CEO Positive Portrayal of Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Callahan Conor , Song Ruixiang , Shi Wei , Veenstra Kevin J. , McNamara Gerry
Published: April 2024

Existing research has suggested seemingly contradictory conclusions about the efficacy of impression management (IM) tactics. While a growing body of research highlights the potential benefits of IM, other studies imply that the effectiveness of these tactics in shaping stakeholder perceptions may be limited. Our study advances theory on IM by drawing upon expectancy violations theory to develop a contingency theory of IM efficacy. Concentrating on CEOs’ positive portrayal of merger and acquisition (M&A) activity, we hypothesize that the effectiveness of this IM tactic hinges on factors related to the communicator (CEO duality), context (acquisition foreshadowing), and audience (investor type). Our results indicate that investor reactions to CEOs’ positive portrayal are more favourable when M&A activity has been foreshadowed or when the institutional investor is transient. Conversely, reactions are less favourable for CEOs also serving as board chair. Our findings provide novel insights into IM theory, suggesting that potential expectancy violations associated with IM tactics could be shaped by the attributes of communicator, context, and audience.
Multilingualism, language choice, and identity construction: Diasporic Ukrainians in Shanghai
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Liu Fengwei , Wang Zichen , Mei Ying
Published: April 2024

This article reports on a study of multilingualism, language choice, and identity construction for six Ukrainians in Shanghai, China. Thematic analysis of data collected from netnographic observation, semi‐structured interviews, and narrative frame writing revealed that diasporic Ukrainians’ language choice is both instrumentally strategic and sociopolitically charged; in the public domain, they construct light “citizen of the world” and “nice foreigner” identities; in the private domain, they construct “Ukrainian who speaks Ukrainian language” identity. To understand the seemingly binary or even conflicted situation, we turn to the concept of “social anchoring” and propose a conceptualization of “diasporic people's language choice and identity selection.” This study shows that the construction of diasporic identity is, first of all, an individualistic process, articulating the affective aspect in their seeking psychological stability; it is also a social practice indicating diasporic people's strategies in seeking social stability.
Critical ethnography: implications for medical education research and scholarship
Authors: Rashid Marghalara , Goldszmidt Mark
Published: April 2024

Context

Medical education (ME) must rethink the dominant culture's fundamental assumptions and unintended consequences on less advantaged groups and society at large. Doing so, however, requires a robust understanding of what we are teaching, regardless of our intentions, and what is being learned across the multiple settings that our learners find themselves in, from classrooms to clinical spaces and beyond.

Approach

Gaining such understandings and fully exploring the extent to which we are rising to the challenges of today's society in authentic ways require robust methodologies. In this research approaches paper, we introduce unfamiliar readers to one such methodology—critical ethnography. By doing so, we hope to demonstrate its potential for helping ME both identify and gain novel insight into necessary solutions for many of today's educational challenges regarding healthcare disparities and inequities.

Conclusion

The readers of this paper will gain novel insights into how critical ethnographers see the world and ask questions, thereby changing the way they (the reader) see the world. At its heart, critical ethnography is about thinking differently and that is something that should be accessible to all. Doing so may also enhance our ability to both question dominant ways of thinking and, ultimately, to enact positive change in training and practices to enhance inclusivity and fairness for all regardless of their gender, race and status.
The crane fly glycosylated triketide δ‐lactone cornicinine elicits akinete differentiation of the cyanobiont in aquatic Azolla fern symbioses
Authors: Güngör Erbil , Savary Jérôme , Adema Kelvin , Dijkhuizen Laura W. , Keilwagen Jens , Himmelbach Axel , Mascher Martin , Koppers Nils , Bräutigam Andrea , Van Hove Charles , Riant Olivier , Nierzwicki‐Bauer Sandra , Schluepmann Henriette
Published: April 2024

The restriction of plant‐symbiont dinitrogen fixation by an insect semiochemical had not been previously described. Here we report on a glycosylated triketide δ‐lactone from Nephrotoma cornicina crane flies, cornicinine, that causes chlorosis in the floating‐fern symbioses from the genus Azolla. Only the glycosylated trans‐A form of chemically synthesized cornicinine was active: 500 nM cornicinine in the growth medium turned all cyanobacterial filaments from Nostoc azollae inside the host leaf‐cavities into akinetes typically secreting CTB‐bacteriocins. Cornicinine further inhibited akinete germination in Azolla sporelings, precluding re‐establishment of the symbiosis during sexual reproduction. It did not impact development of the plant Arabidopsis thaliana or several free‐living cyanobacteria from the genera Anabaena or Nostoc but affected the fern host without cyanobiont. Fern‐host mRNA sequencing from isolated leaf cavities confirmed high NH4‐assimilation and proanthocyanidin biosynthesis in this trichome‐rich tissue. After cornicinine treatment, it revealed activation of Cullin‐RING ubiquitin‐ligase‐pathways, known to mediate metabolite signaling and plant elicitation consistent with the chlorosis phenotype, and increased JA‐oxidase, sulfate transport and exosome formation. The work begins to uncover molecular mechanisms of cyanobiont differentiation in a seed‐free plant symbiosis important for wetland ecology or circular crop‐production today, that once caused massive CO2 draw‐down during the Eocene geological past.
The poorly‐explored stomatal response to temperature at constant evaporative demand
Authors: Mills Colleen , Bartlett Megan K. , Buckley Thomas N.
Published: April 2024

Changes in leaf temperature are known to drive stomatal responses, because the leaf‐to‐air water vapour gradient (Δw) increases with temperature if ambient vapour pressure is held constant, and stomata respond to changes in Δw. However, the direct response of stomata to temperature (DRST; the response when Δw is held constant by adjusting ambient humidity) has been examined far less extensively. Though the meagre available data suggest the response is usually positive, results differ widely and defy broad generalisation. As a result, little is known about the DRST. This review discusses the current state of knowledge about the DRST, including numerous hypothesised biophysical mechanisms, potential implications of the response for plant adaptation, and possible impacts of the DRST on plant‐atmosphere carbon and water exchange in a changing climate.
Postoperative outcomes of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure in infants and children with biliary atresia
Authors: Naeem Buria , Ayub Adil , Coss‐Bu Jorge , Mian Muhammad Umair M. , Hernaez Ruben , Fogarty Thomas P. , Deshotels Kirby , Kennedy Curt , Goss John , Desai Moreshwar S.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is associated with increased mortality and morbidity in patients with biliary atresia (BA). Data on impact of ACLF on postoperative outcomes, however, are sparse.

Method

We performed a retrospective analysis of patients with BA aged <18 years who underwent LT between 2011 and 2021 at our institution. ACLF was defined using the pediatric ACLF criteria: ≥1 extra‐hepatic organ failure in children with decompensated cirrhosis.

Results

Of 107 patients (65% female; median age 14 [9–31] months) who received a LT, 13 (12%) had ACLF during the index admission prior to LT. Two (15%) had Grade 1; 4 (30%) had Grade 2; and 7 (55%) had Grade ≥3 ACLF. ACLF cohort was younger at time of listing (5 [4–8] vs. 9 [6–24] months; p < .001) and at LT (8 [8–11] vs. 16 [10–40] months, p < .001) compared to no‐ACLF group. Intraoperatively, ACLF patients had higher blood loss (40 [20–53] vs. 10 [6–19] mL/kg; p < .001) and blood transfusion requirements (33 [21–69] vs. 18 [7–25] mL/kg; p = .004). Postoperatively, they needed higher vasopressor support (31% vs. 10.6%; p = .04) and had higher total hospital length of stay (106 [45–151] vs. 13 [7–30] days; p = .023). Rate of return to the operating room, hospital readmission rates, and 1‐year post‐LT survival rates were comparable between the groups.

Conclusion

Despite higher perioperative complications, survival outcomes for ACLF in BA after LT are favorable and comparable to those without ACLF. These encouraging data reiterate prioritization during organ allocation of these critically ill children for LT.
A new method to predict venous complications in pediatric liver transplantation: Evaluation of splenic parameters by ultrasonography
Authors: Jieyang Jin , Mei Liao , Kunying Liu , Tao Wu , Ling Jin , Yang Yang , Shuhong Yi , Yan Lv , Jie Ren
Published: April 2024

Background

Venous complications after pediatric liver transplantation seriously affect the survival rate of patients and grafts. At present, the diagnostic indicators have not been unified. Venous complications may cause portal hypertension, which may lead to splenomegaly and splenic vein dilatation. Therefore, the changes in spleen may be closely related to the venous complications. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between ultrasonic splenic parameters and venous complications and to study whether these splenic parameters can be used for the diagnosis of venous complications.

Methods

We retrospectively included pediatric patients who underwent liver transplantation and collected ultrasonic spleen parameters before, and then 1–3 days, 1–3 weeks, 1–3 months, and 4–12 months after liver transplantation. We observed whether there were portal vein or hepatic vein complications within 1 year after liver transplantation.

Results

Among 109 pediatric patients after liver transplantation included in our study, 11 of them suffered from portal vein complications and nine hepatic vein complications. Spleen transverse diameter, spleen longitudinal diameter, spleen portal vein diameter, spleen index, spleen transverse diameter ratio, spleen longitudinal diameter ratio, and spleen index ratio were independent risk factors of venous complications. The accuracy of spleen transverse diameter (AUROC: 0.73), spleen index (AUROC: 0.70), spleen transverse diameter ratio (AUROC: 0.71), and spleen index ratio (AUROC: 0.72) in predicting venous complications were higher than other ones.

Conclusions

Ultrasonic examination is a common follow‐up method for pediatric patients after liver transplantation and the application of ultrasonic spleen parameters may be helpful to monitor venous complications.
Influence of health‐related behaviors patterns on obesity among primary and secondary school students: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Li Yin , Xu Chang , Ban Yanjing , Xi Wei , Han Yu , Zhang Xin , Gao Lei
Published: April 2024

Objective

To analyze the co‐existing patterns of health‐related behaviors among children and adolescents at different education stages and the association with obesity.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Sample

A total of 5651 primary and secondary school students were drawn from the National Student Physical Health Survey in 2014 with an average age of 13.53 ± 2.87 years.

Measurements

Physical measurements and questionnaires were completed, which concluded height, weight, and health‐related behaviors (sleep, physical activity, dietary, and screen behavior et al.). Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted using Mplus 8.3 and SPSS 26.0 was used for other statistical analysis.

Results

Three latent classes of health‐related behaviors were fitted for each of the education stages. After adjustment for age, gender, and region, the high‐screen behavior group were 2.217 (95%CI = 1.030–4.772, p = .042) times more likely to be obesity than the health‐behavior group in primary school, and the poor‐diet group and poor‐diet and high‐screen behavior group were 2.101 (95%CI = 1.396–3.396, p < .001) and 1.788 (95%CI = 1.003–3.190, p = .049) times more likely to be overweight than the health‐behavior group in junior middle school respectively.

Conclusion

Obesity is mainly influenced by screen behavior and dietary patterns among children and adolescents. Health‐related behavior patterns should be accurately identified and comprehensive joint interventions should be carried out to prevent obesity.
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation modifies cortical excitability in middle‐aged and older adults
Authors: Gerges Ashraf N. H. , Graetz Lynton , Hillier Susan , Uy Jeric , Hamilton Taya , Opie George , Vallence Ann‐Maree , Braithwaite Felicity A. , Chamberlain Saran , Hordacre Brenton
Published: April 2024

There is a growing interest in the clinical application of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). However, its effect on cortical excitability, and whether this is modulated by stimulation duration, remains unclear. We evaluated whether taVNS can modify excitability in the primary motor cortex (M1) in middle‐aged and older adults and whether the stimulation duration moderates this effect. In addition, we evaluated the blinding efficacy of a commonly reported sham method. In a double‐blinded randomized cross‐over sham‐controlled study, 23 healthy adults (mean age 59.91 ± 6.87 years) received three conditions: active taVNS for 30 and 60 min and sham for 30 min. Single and paired‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was delivered over the right M1 to evaluate motor‐evoked potentials. Adverse events, heart rate and blood pressure measures were evaluated. Participant blinding effectiveness was assessed via guesses about group allocation. There was an increase in short‐interval intracortical inhibition (F = 7.006, p = .002) and a decrease in short‐interval intracortical facilitation (F = 4.602, p = .014) after 60 min of taVNS, but not 30 min, compared to sham. taVNS was tolerable and safe. Heart rate and blood pressure were not modified by taVNS (p > .05). Overall, 96% of participants detected active stimulation and 22% detected sham stimulation. taVNS modifies cortical excitability in M1 and its effect depends on stimulation duration in middle‐aged and older adults. taVNS increased GABAAergic inhibition and decreased glutamatergic activity. Sham taVNS protocol is credible but there is an imbalance in beliefs about group allocation.
Temporal interplay between cognitive conflict and attentional markers in social collaboration
Authors: Abubshait Abdulaziz , Perez‐Osorio Jairo , De Tommaso Davide , Wykowska Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

Cognitive processes deal with contradictory demands in social contexts. On the one hand, social interactions imply a demand for cooperation, which requires processing social signals, and on the other, demands for selective attention require ignoring irrelevant signals, to avoid overload. We created a task with a humanoid robot displaying irrelevant social signals, imposing conflicting demands on selective attention. Participants interacted with the robot as a team (high social demand; n = 23) or a passive co‐actor (low social demand; n = 19). We observed that theta oscillations indexed conflict processing of social signals. Subsequently, alpha oscillations were sensitive to the conflicting social signals and the mode of interaction. These findings suggest that brains have distinct mechanisms for dealing with the complexity of social interaction and that these mechanisms are activated differently depending on the mode of the interaction. Thus, how we process environmental stimuli depends on the beliefs held regarding our social context.
The role of environmental impact assessments in the establishment and management of marine protected areas under the UNCLOS and the BBNJ Agreement
Authors: Duan Wen , Shen Luoyi
Published: April 2024

This article analyses the role of environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in establishing and managing marine protected areas (MPAs) in areas beyond national jurisdiction (ABNJ) under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Agreement under the UNCLOS on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement). The analysis is conducted by discussing Articles 194 and 205–206 of the UNCLOS and Articles 27–28 and 30 of the BBNJ Agreement. It concludes that the interaction between EIA and MPAs in ABNJ is not only desirable but also critical for the success of MPAs. The BBNJ Agreement operationalises the role of EIAs in establishing and managing MPAs under the UNCLOS by (1) granting EIA an important role in assessing the susceptibility of an MPA to the impact of certain human activities and (2) factoring part of indicative criteria for identifying potential MPAs in the list of criteria to be considered for conducting EIA screening.
Effect of cover crops and tillage systems on soil quality and sugarcane yield
Authors: Carneiro Marina Pedroso , de Souza Zigomar Menezes , Farhate Camila Viana Vieira , Cherubin Maurício Roberto , Panosso Alan Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

The management adopted in the establishment and replanting of sugarcane fields, with conventional tillage followed by fallow, is one of the main causes of soil quality degradation. In this context, the soil quality index (SQI) is an important tool to guide the use of more sustainable practices and management. This study aimed to monitor the effect of different cover crops in association with different tillage systems on sugarcane yield based on key indicators and an SQI developed using the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF). The experiment was carried out on a sugarcane expansion area located in the municipality of Ibitinga, São Paulo, Brazil. The following soil physical and chemical attributes were analyzed: soil bulk density, macroaggregates, available phosphorus and potassium. Soil carbon content was also analyzed and used to calculate the SQI. Productivity over the 4 years of sugarcane cultivation was also analyzed. The use of subsoilers for soil tillage proved efficient in managing compaction by providing lower soil bulk density values in the first years of cultivation (1.59 and 1.63 g cm−3); however, these effects occurred in the short term with a 10% increase in later years. The use of millet in association with subsoiling showed the best results for soil quality (0.59), reflected in the maintenance of yields at 100 Mg ha−1 over time. Thus, our study reinforces the importance of using soil conservation systems in sugarcane replanting areas to achieve production longevity.
Stand age and soil organic matter management as driven factors of soil biota community composition and soil chemical properties in a subtropical Acrisol
Authors: da Silva Lucas Jónatan Rodrigues , de Souza Tancredo , Nascimento Gislaine dos Santos
Published: April 2024

Pyrus pyrifolia is a common temperate fruit crop cultivated in Southern Brazil for fruit production. Although this plant species is found in several Brazilian states (Paraná, Santa Catarina, São Paulo, Rio Grande do Sul), it is predominantly concentrated in the smallholder farming system in Santa Catarina, Brazil. Our aim was to compare the soil biota community composition, soil chemical properties, and soil quality in two adjacent stands with different ages. Within each stand, we analysed the influence of four organic residue management practices. Our results indicated that both studied stands, influenced by different organic residue management practices, exhibited differences in soil biota community composition, soil chemical properties, and soil quality. Acaridae, Araneidae, Blattidae, Halictophagidae, and Opiliones were the main contributors, explaining 78.08% of the variance in the data. The 16‐year‐old stand, with compost utilization, displayed a high biodiversity of soil organisms, average soil chemical properties, and the highest values of soil quality, creating a habitat for predators and providing energy for litter transformers and ecosystem engineers in subtropical Acrisol. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the influence of old stands on soil biota community composition, soil chemical properties, ecosystem homeostasis, herbivory pressure, and prey‐predation relationships. This, in turn, may enhance interest in establishing new management plans for Pyrus pyrifolia stands in commercial orchards.
Investigation of efficacy of two different chemotherapy protocols used in neoadjuvant chemotherapy in clinical stages II–IV canine malignant mammary tumours
Authors: Kuruoglu Fikriye Ecem , Ekici Zeynep Merve , Nak Deniz , Ozyigit Musa Ozgur , Kupeli Zehra Avci , Koca Davut
Published: April 2024

The first aim of this study is to demonstrate the clinical efficacy and reliability of two different neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) protocols consisting of doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (AC) and paclitaxel in dogs with clinical stages II–IV canine malignant mammary tumours (CMTs). Secondly, to determine the Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2‐positive and triple‐negative molecular subtypes and their value in predicting clinical response to NAC in biopsy samples, and thirdly, to reveal the changes in Ki‐67, human epidermal growth factor receptor type 2 (HER2), oestrogen receptor (ER), and progesterone receptor (PgR) expression levels induced by NAC. Thirty dogs with clinical stages II‐IV CMTs (T1‐3N0‐1M0) according to the modified TNM system were included in the study. Dogs in group‐1 (n = 15) AC combination and dogs in group‐2 (n = 15) were administered paclitaxel. Partial response (PR) was the most common clinical response in both treatment groups (66.66% and 86.66%, respectively). There was no difference between the groups regarding clinical response parameters (p = .001). The rate of treatment responders was higher than the rate of non‐responders in both groups (p < .001). The adverse effects observed in both groups were mostly limited to grades 1 and 2 and all were easy to manage. The most frequently detected molecular subtype was Luminal A (59.25%). Complete response (CR) was achieved in 33.33% of dogs with triple‐negative CMT in the AC group and 14.29% of the Luminal A subtype in the paclitaxel group. Alterations in Ki‐67, HER2, ER, and PgR expressions after chemotherapy were not statistically significant (p > .05). As a result, we have shown that these neoadjuvant chemotherapy protocols are effective and safe alternative treatment options for CMTs.
Low‐temperature plasma jet suppresses bacterial colonisation and affects wound healing through reactive species
Authors: Ge Yang , Wang Jun , Gu DongHua , Cao Wei , Feng Yongtong , Wu Yanfan , Liu Han , Xu Zhengping , Zhang Zhe , Xie Jinsong , Geng Shuang , Cong Junrui , Liu Yi
Published: April 2024

An argon‐based low‐temperature plasma jet (LTPJ) was used to treat chronically infected wounds in Staphylococcus aureus‐laden mice. Based on physicochemical property analysis and in vitro antibacterial experiments, the effects of plasma parameters on the reactive nitrogen and oxygen species (RNOS) content and antibacterial capacity were determined, and the optimal treatment parameters were determined to be 4 standard litre per minute and 35 W. Additionally, the plasma‐treated activation solution had a bactericidal effect. Although RNOS are related to the antimicrobial effect of plasma, excess RNOS may be detrimental to wound remodelling. In vivo studies demonstrated that medium‐dose LTPJ promoted MMP‐9 expression and inhibited bacterial growth during the early stages of healing. Moreover, LTPJ increased collagen deposition, reduced inflammation, and restored blood vessel density and TGF‐β levels to normal in the later stages of wound healing. Therefore, when treating chronically infected wounds with LTPJ, selecting the medium dose of plasma is more advantageous for wound recovery. Overall, our study demonstrated that low‐temperature plasma jets may be a potential tool for the treatment of chronically infected wounds.
Experimental and Numerical Study of the Flow Around Rigid and Flexible Hydrofoils for Wetted and Cavitating Flow Conditions
Authors: Perali P. , Hauville F. , Leroyer A. , Astolfi J. A. , Visonneau M.
Published: April 2024

The hydro-elastic response of a flexible NACA 0015 hydrofoil is investigated for both wetted and cavitating flow conditions. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis are performed using a fully implicit coupling between the ISIS-CFD solver (developed by the METHRIC team at Ecole Centrale de-Nantes) and a modal approach for the structure. The Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) solver is first validated for wetted and cavitating flow conditions around a similar rigid hydrofoil, with experimental results carried out at the hydrodynamic tunnel of the French Naval Academy, including lift and drag measurements and high speed camera images. Then the numerical predictions for the flexible hydrofoil response are compared with experimental bending shapes and vibrations amplitudes, with a focus on cavitating flow conditions. For wetted flow conditions, numerical results show a good agreement with the experiments, for both rigid and flexible hydrofoils. For cavitating flow conditions, the hydro-elastic response is dominated by vibrations at the hydrofoil modal frequencies and the reentrant jet instability frequency. For the lowest values of the cavitation number, a large amplitude peak is experimentally observed in the frequency response spectra, due to lock-in between the first modal frequency and the reentrant jet frequency. Strong harmonics of this dominant peak also appear in the spectra, revealing a nonlinear response of the hydrofoil. While the amplitudes of vibrations are well predicted by the computations, the frequency lock-in observed in the experiments is not captured by the numerical model.
Entre héroes, patriarcas y monstruos: las máscaras masculinas del bacalao madrileño
Authors: Leste Moyano Eduardo
Published: April 2024

Este artículo toma como referencia el modelo de máscaras masculinas de Gil Calvo (2006) para visibilizar y explicar, a partir de datos etnográficos, las masculinidades del bacalao madrileño en todas sus versiones, presentes y pasadas. Esto supone abordar, desde esta perspectiva que incluya esta variable de género, tanto las tres culturas juveniles (Feixa, 1998) que constituyeron este fenómeno en los años ochenta y noventa del siglo XX —bacalas, bakalas y vakalas (Leste, 2020a)— como la escena musical (Straw, 1991) neobakala que ha creado en el presente un patrimonio cultural (Jiménez-Esquinas, 2017). Este artículo, además, analiza la ritualidad de estas masculinidades a partir del trabajo de Turner (1982), algo que permite ver cómo estos sujetos las afianzan, al mismo tiempo que lidian con las cargas percibidas de las mismas.
Domain-adaptation method between acoustic-response data using different insert earphones
Authors: Kim Kiyean , Kim Sangyeon , Sun Sukkyu
Published: April 2024

Classifying acoustic responses captured through earphones offers valuable insights into nearby environments, such as whether the earphones are in or out of the ear. However, the performances of classification algorithms often suffer when applied to other devices due to domain mismatches. This study proposes a domain-adaptation method tailored for acoustic-response data from two distinct insert earphone models. The method trains a domain-adaptation function using a pair of datasets obtained from a set of acoustic loads, yielding a domain-adapted dataset suitable for training classification algorithms in a target domain. The effectiveness of this approach is validated through assessments of domain adaptation quality and resulting performance enhancements in the classification algorithm tasked with discerning whether an earphone is positioned inside or outside the ear. Importantly, our method requires significantly fewer measurements than the original dataset, reducing data collection time while providing a suitable training dataset for the target domain. Additionally, the method's reusability across future devices streamlines data collection time and efforts for the future devices.
Coingestion of Collagen With Whey Protein Prevents Postexercise Decline in Plasma Glycine Availability in Recreationally Active Men
Authors: Aussieker Thorben , Janssen Tom A.H. , Hermans Wesley J.H. , Holwerda Andrew M. , Senden Joan M. , van Kranenburg Janneau M.X. , Goessens Joy P.B. , Snijders Tim , van Loon Luc J.C.
Published: April 2024

Whey protein ingestion during recovery from exercise increases myofibrillar but not muscle connective protein synthesis rates. It has been speculated that whey protein does not provide sufficient glycine to maximize postexercise muscle connective protein synthesis rates. In the present study, we assessed the impact of coingesting different amounts of collagen with whey protein as a nutritional strategy to increase plasma glycine availability during recovery from exercise. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 14 recreationally active men (age: 26 ± 5 years; body mass index: 23.8 ± 2.1 kg·m−2) ingested in total 30 g protein, provided as whey protein with 0 g (WHEY), 5 g (WC05); 10 g (WC10), and 15 g (WC15) of collagen protein immediately after a single bout of resistance exercise. Blood samples were collected frequently over 6 hr of postexercise recovery to assess postprandial plasma amino acid kinetics and availability. Protein ingestion strongly increased plasma amino acid concentrations (p < .001) with no differences in plasma total amino acid availability between treatments (p > .05). The postprandial rise in plasma leucine and essential amino acid availability was greater in WHEY compared with the WC10 and WC15 treatments (p < .05). Plasma glycine and nonessential amino acid concentrations declined following whey protein ingestion but increased following collagen coingestion (p < .05). Postprandial plasma glycine availability averaged −8.9 ± 5.8, 9.2 ± 3.7, 23.1 ± 6.5, and 39.8 ± 11.0 mmol·360 min/L in WHEY, WC05, WC10, and WC15, respectively (incremental area under curve values, p < .05). Coingestion of a small amount of collagen (5 g) with whey protein (25 g) is sufficient to prevent the decline in plasma glycine availability during recovery from lower body resistance-type exercise in recreationally active men.