bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of grain‐scale microstructural parameters on fracture toughness of polycrystalline ceramics: Dual scale finite element method
Authors: Cui Jinping , Guan Kang , Rao Pinggen , Gong Zhenyuan , Yu Shuyan , Zeng Qingfeng , Liu Jiantao
Published: December 2023

Fracture toughness is a basic property of ceramic materials, and it is strongly influenced by their microstructures. However, the influences of grain‐scale microstructural factors, including grain fracture energy, boundary fracture energy, and grain size of the microstructure, on the fracture toughness remain unclear. To investigate this, a dual‐scale finite element method was developed. Models were established to assess the microstructural mechanical properties, with an average grain size of 0.1–100 μm, and different grain boundary fracture energies and grain fracture energies. Based on the microstructural mechanical properties, a macroscale three‐point bending model, combined with the extended finite element method was used to evaluate the fracture toughness. The results indicated that fracture toughness increased with the decrease in the grain size when the grain size was below 5 μm. Conversely, when the grain size was greater than 5 μm, the fracture toughness remained relatively constant. Additionally, the grain boundary fracture energy played a more important role for the fracture toughness than the grain fracture energy. Finally, a formula that quantitatively describes the relationship between the microstructure and fracture toughness was obtained. This work provides a valuable reference for evaluating the performances of structural ceramics.
Structural heterogeneity induced enhancement of physical properties in Sm‐modified K0.5Na0.5NbO3
Authors: Sahoo Satyaranjan , Pradhan Dhiren K. , Kumari Shalini , Samantaray Koyal Suman , Singh Charanjeet , Mishra Anupam , Rahaman Md. Mijanur , Behera Banarji , Kumar Ashok , Thomas Reji , Rack Philip D. , Pradhan Dillip K.
Published: December 2023

Doping of suitable metal ions in ferroelectric oxides modifies the physical properties and can induce additional functionalities. Here, we present a detailed study on the effects of Sm concentration on the structural, dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of ((K0.5Na0.5)1−3xSmx)NbO3 (KNSN) (0.00 ≤ x ≤ 0.02) ceramics. X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic analysis indicate that KNSN ceramics exhibit the single‐phase orthorhombic (Amm2) structure for x = 0.00 and the coexistence of orthorhombic and tetragonal (Amm2 + P4mm) structure for the composition range 0.005 ≤ x ≤ 0.02. The tetragonal phase fraction increases with an increase in Sm concentration. We observed dielectric relaxation behavior in KNSN at orthorhombic to tetragonal (TO–T) phase transition temperature, and its origin can be attributed to the structural heterogeneity at the inter‐ferroelectric phase boundary. Increasing Sm concentration leads to the broadening of the ferroelectric phase transition peaks. Further, the structural heterogeneity of the ceramics was seen from the slope of the dielectric constant versus log frequency and central peak behavior of Raman spectra at room temperature (RT). The study reveals that x = 0.005 shows maximum dielectric constant (Ɛr = 583), remanent polarization (2Pr = 57.02 μC/cm2), and piezoelectric coefficient (d33 = 94 pC/N) at RT and is associated with increased local structural heterogeneity due to Sm doping.
Classification of psychodermatological disorders: Proposal of a new international classification
Authors: Ferreira Bárbara Roque , Vulink Nienke , Mostaghimi Ladan , Jafferany Mohammad , Balieva Flora , Gieler Uwe , Poot Françoise , Reich Adam , Romanov Dmitry , Szepietowski Jacek C. , Tomas‐Aragones Lucia , Campos Ricardo , Tausk Francisco , Zipser Marie , Bewley Anthony , Misery Laurent
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Several classifications of psychodermatology disorders have been proposed, with most of them based on two to four main disorder category groups. However, there is, to date, no classification that has resulted from a consensus established by psychodermatology experts. The DSM‐5‐TR (Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.), Text Revision) and the ICD‐11 (International classification of diseases (11th revision)) also do not provide a systematized approach of psychodermatology disorders. Taking into consideration that classifications are a key pillar for a comprehensive approach to the pathologies of each branch of medicine, the proposal of a classification in psychodermatology appeared as a central need for the recognition of psychodermatological disorders, in an attempt to improve their recognition and, in that sense, to find a common language for the development of this subspecialty that crosses dermatology and psychiatry.

Methods

Previously published classifications in psychodermatology were critically reviewed and discussed by expert opinion from an international multidisciplinary panel of 16 experts in psychodermatology and a new classification system is proposed, considering classical concepts in general dermatology and psychopathology.

Results

Two main categories of disorders are presented (a main group related to primary mental health disorders and another main group related to primary skin disorders), which are subsequently subdivided into subgroups considering pathophysiological and phenomenological similarities, including key aspects of dermatological examination, namely the presence of visible skin lesions (primary and secondary skin lesions) and psychopathological correlates.

Conclusion

This new classification aims to unify previous classifications, systematize the disorders that belong to psychodermatology and highlight their tenuous boundaries, to improve their management. It has been built and approved by the Psychodermatology Task Force of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV), the European Society for Dermatology and Psychiatry (ESDaP) and the Association for Psychoneurocutaneous Medicine of North America (APMNA).
An attachment perspective on couple interaction: Helping couples signal needs clearly and respond appropriately
Authors: Seedall Ryan B. , Wampler Karen S.
Published: December 2023

Attachment theory provides some important insights into couple relationships, including highlighting the importance of communicating one's needs clearly while also having a partner who is properly attuned and appropriately responsive to those needs. The purpose of this study was to provide an initial empirical examination of the signal‐response dynamic. More specifically, we used data from 63 couples to examine the efficacy (in terms of psychophysiological arousal and feelings toward their partner) of a micro‐intervention designed to help couples improve their signaling and responding when compared to a seminatural condition where the discussion more closely resembled how couples interact at home. We also explored the emotional experience of participants in various signaling and responding roles. Overall, we found preliminary evidence for addressing signaling and responding dynamics. We also found evidence that emotional experience varied according to signaling or responding roles. These findings have important potential clinical implications, which we discuss in depth.
Redistribution of heat‐producing elements during melting of Archean crust
Authors: Kinney Carson , Kendrick Jillian , Duguet Manuel , Yakymchuk Chris
Published: December 2023

Heat generated from the decay of K, Th, and U plays a fundamental role in the differentiation and stabilization of Earth's continental crust. This is particularly important in the construction of Archean cratons that form the nuclei of Earth's continents. The Kapuskasing uplift is a rare exposure of an Archean‐age crustal cross‐section that provides a snapshot of crustal melting, differentiation, and compositional stratification. We integrate field observations, whole‐rock compositions, thermodynamic equilibrium and accessory mineral modelling with heat production and latency time modelling to provide insights into the partitioning of heat‐producing elements between residue and melt during anatexis of metabasites as well as the resulting effects on metamorphic timescales and the production of tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite (TTG) suites. We model six metabasite compositions ranging from relatively fertile greenschist facies metabasites to melt‐depleted residual mafic (upper‐)amphibolites to granulites. Heat‐producing elements are modelled to be partitioned between melt and residue; the dominant minerals in the residue that host these elements are apatite, hornblende, K‐feldspar, and epidote. At 800–850°C epidote is no longer stable, and the melt fraction is predicted to contain roughly half of the heat production capacity for the system. Apatite and melt are expected to be the dominant repositories for Th and U during anatexis; zircon is predicted to be completely consumed by 850°C, whereas apatite persists to higher temperatures and allanite is expected only in minor modal abundances at high‐P, low‐T conditions. The partitioning of heat‐producing elements into relatively low‐density melt decreases the heat production of the residual system during anatexis. Due to their high density and affinity for U and Th, epidote and apatite retain heat production capacity in the residue during metabasite melting. Thermal latency modelling of metamorphism suggests that enriched metabasite compositions require 38–46 My to increase the temperature from ~650 to 850°C (solidus temperature to peak metamorphic temperature of the Kapuskasing uplift), whereas estimates are considerably shorter for depleted compositions (7–25 My). Four of the six samples modelled require 60–70 My to reach 1000°C from the solidus. Our modelling of heat‐producing element partitioning and predicted proportions of melt suggest that enriched basaltic compositions are the most reasonable source of TTG magmas and our heating time modelling indicates the mantle as an equal to dominant source of heat for metabasite anatexis compared with radiogenic heat production.
Data‐independent acquisition proteomics of cerebrospinal fluid implicates endoplasmic reticulum and inflammatory mechanisms in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Dellar Elizabeth R. , Vendrell Iolanda , Talbot Kevin , Kessler Benedikt M. , Fischer Roman , Turner Martin R. , Thompson Alexander G.
Published: December 2023

While unbiased proteomics of human cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been used successfully to identify biomarkers of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), high‐abundance proteins mask the presence of lower abundance proteins that may have diagnostic and prognostic value. However, developments in mass spectrometry (MS) proteomic data acquisition methods offer improved protein depth. In this study, MS with library‐free data‐independent acquisition (DIA) was used to compare the CSF proteome of people with ALS (n = 40), healthy (n = 15) and disease (n = 8) controls. Quantified protein groups were subsequently correlated with clinical variables. Univariate analysis identified 7 proteins, all significantly upregulated in ALS versus healthy controls, and 9 with altered abundance in ALS versus disease controls (FDR < 0.1). Elevated chitotriosidase‐1 (CHIT1) was common to both comparisons and was proportional to ALS disability progression rate (Pearson r = 0.41, FDR‐adjusted p = 0.035) but not overall survival. Ubiquitin carboxyl‐terminal hydrolase isozyme L1 (UCHL1; upregulated in ALS versus healthy controls) was proportional to disability progression rate (Pearson r = 0.53, FDR‐adjusted p = 0.003) and survival (Kaplan Meier log‐rank p = 0.013) but not independently in multivariate proportional hazards models. Weighted correlation network analysis was used to identify functionally relevant modules of proteins. One module, enriched for inflammatory functions, was associated with age at symptom onset (Pearson r = 0.58, FDR‐adjusted p = 0.005) and survival (Hazard Ratio = 1.78, FDR = 0.065), and a second module, enriched for endoplasmic reticulum proteins, was negatively correlated with disability progression rate (r = −0.42, FDR‐adjusted p = 0.109). DIA acquisition methodology therefore strengthened the biomarker candidacy of CHIT1 and UCHL1 in ALS, while additionally highlighted inflammatory and endoplasmic reticulum proteins as novel sources of prognostic biomarkers.
Mental health and jaw function of patients with anterior disc displacement with reduction
Authors: Yao Yuan , Liu Sha Sha , Jin Lei , Zeng Hong , Jiang Xin , Fang Zhong Yi , Cai Bin , Xu Lili
Published: December 2023

Background

The mental health of patients with temporomandibular disorder or other jaw dysfunction is a primary concern in clinical practice, but the extent of these symptoms in this patient subset is not yet well understood.

Objectives

This cross‐sectional study aimed to compare the mental health and jaw function between patients with anterior disc displacement with reduction (ADDWR) and healthy individuals.

Methods

In total, 170 patients with ADDWR and 163 healthy participants enrolled in this study from March 2020 to December 2021. All participants completed a single assessment, including a pain rating and several questionnaires to assess jaw dysfunction, depression, and anxiety. All scores and the grade distribution of somatization, depression and anxiety were analysed between groups.

Results

Significant differences were found in measures of pain, jaw function and somatization; the ADDWR group had significantly higher pain and functional jaw limitations than the healthy group. The grade distribution of somatic symptoms also differed between groups: the distribution of patients who reported mild and above scores in the ADDWR group was significantly higher than that of the healthy group. Depression and anxiety scores or grade distributions were not significantly different by group.

Conclusion

The jaw function of patients seeking treatment for ADDWR was lower than that of non‐TMD individuals. They did not show high anxiety and depression symptoms, but their somatic symptoms were more apparent.
Coping strategies in response to peer victimization: Comparing adolescents in the United States and Korea
Authors: Yang Joo Young , McDonald Kristina L. , Seo Sunmi
Published: December 2023

We examined cultural specificity in how adolescents' coping strategies in response to peer victimization are associated with adjustment with a sample of 7th–8th graders from the United States (n = 292, 60% female, Mage = 13.6, SD = 0.65) and South Korea (n = 462, 50.2% female, Mage = 13.7, SD = 0.58). Participants read scenarios describing victimization and rated the likelihood of utilizing different coping strategies. US adolescents rated conflict resolution, cognitive distancing, and revenge higher than Korean adolescents, while Korean adolescents endorsed social support seeking more than US adolescents. Social support seeking was positively associated with global self‐worth in both countries; however, social support seeking was negatively related to depression and social anxiety only for Korean youth.
The Precarious Spaces Between Us: The Exchange of Food and Merit in Thailand's Affective Moral Economy during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Cassaniti Julia
Published: December 2023

In the middle of 2020, Buddhism in Thailand looked quite different than it had just prior to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Monasteries had closed their doors to the public, and monastic ordinations ceased. The institution of Thai Buddhism stayed relevant, however, largely by promoting a quite unusual practice. In addition to the typical religious activity of lay followers offering food to monks, and receiving merit from the monks in return, the path that food traveled during the pandemic also turned the other way around. In a curious series of events, monks at monasteries throughout the country began to hand out food to lay Buddhist followers. In a religious landscape with a very codified system of exchange, this was spiritually precarious: if monks give out food, where does the merit lie, and what are the karmic results? To answer this, I examine attitudes about monks’ activities, drawing on interviews conducted in Chiang Mai in 2021, and relationships to textual accounts of nutrients and healing across Buddhist history. Rather than signifying a break from spiritual relationships, I argue that this a‐typical movement during the pandemic helps to highlight the continuing importance of monastic hope within interpersonal affective economies of Thai Buddhist practice.
Excess deaths associated with COVID‐19 by rurality and demographic factors in the United States
Authors: Ahrens Katherine A. , Rossen Lauren M. , Milkowski Carly , Gelsinger Catherine , Ziller Erika
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To estimate percent excess deaths during the COVID‐19 pandemic by rural‐urban residence in the United States and to describe rural‐urban disparities by age, sex, and race/ethnicity.

Methods

Using US mortality data, we used overdispersed Poisson regression models to estimate monthly expected death counts by rurality of residence, age group, sex, and race/ethnicity, and compared expected death counts with observed deaths. We then summarized excess deaths over 6 6‐month time periods.

Findings

There were 16.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 16.8, 17.0) more deaths than expected between March 2020 and February 2023. The percent excess varied by rurality (large central metro: 18.2% [18.1, 18.4], large fringe metro: 15.6% [15.5, 15.8], medium metro: 18.1% [18.0, 18.3], small metro: 15.5% [15.3, 15.7], micropolitan rural: 16.3% [16.1, 16.5], and noncore rural: 15.8% [15.6, 16.1]). The percent excess deaths were 20.2% (20.1, 20.3) for males and 13.6% (13.5, 13.7) for females, and highest for Hispanic persons (49% [49.0, 49.6]), followed by non‐Hispanic Black persons (28% [27.5, 27.9]) and non‐Hispanic White persons (12% [11.6, 11.8]). The 6‐month time periods with the highest percent excess deaths for large central metro areas were March 2020‐August 2020 and September 2020‐February 2021; for all other areas, these time periods were September 2020‐February 2021 and September 2021‐February 2022.

Conclusion

Percent excess deaths varied by rurality, age group, sex, race/ethnicity, and time period. Monitoring excess deaths by rurality may be useful in assessing the impact of the pandemic over time, as rural‐urban patterns appear to differ.
Surgical treatment of canine urethral prolapse via urethropexy or resection and anastomosis
Authors: Healy D. , Rizkallal C. , Rossanese M. , McLarnon P. , Vallefuoco R. , Murgia D. , Ryan T. , Howes C. , Anderson O. , Charlesworth T. , Cinti F. , Martin S. , Das S. , Cantatore M.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

The objective was to report and compare the complications and recurrence rates of urethral prolapse in dogs when treated with urethropexy, resection and anastomosis or a combined surgical technique. Study design: Retrospective study.

Materials and Methods

A total of 86 dogs were identified from the medical records of 10 veterinary referral hospitals from February 2012 and October 2022. Dogs were included if they underwent surgery for a urethral prolapse at first presentation. Complications were classified as minor or major based on the necessity of further surgical intervention. Complications leading to death were also considered major complications.

Results

Seventy‐nine dogs were included, urethropexy (n=44), resection and anastomosis (n=27) and a combined surgical technique (n=8). Minor complications were identified in 41 of 79 dogs (51.9%): urethropexy 19 of 44 (43.2%), resection and anastomosis 18 of 27 (66.6%) and a combined surgical technique four of eight (50%). Major complications occurred in 23 dogs (29.1%), of which 21 were recurrence (26.6%). Recurrence occurred in 17 of 44 dogs following a urethropexy (38.6%), three of 27 dogs following resection and anastomosis (11.1%) and one of eight dogs treated with a combined surgical technique (12.5%). Recurrence of a urethral prolapse was significantly more likely following urethropexy in comparison to resection and anastomosis.

Clinical Significance

Resection and anastomosis was associated with a lower recurrence rate in comparison to urethropexy for the surgical treatment of urethral prolapse. Based on these results, we concluded that resection and anastomosis may be preferable to urethropexy for treatment of urethral prolapse at first presentation. Urethropexy, and resection and anastomosis combined surgical technique was associated with low recurrence rate; however, further studies will be needed to clarify if it provides any benefit over resection and anastomosis.
Long‐term safety of dietary salt: A 5‐year ProspEctive rAndomized bliNded and controlled stUdy in healThy aged cats (PEANUT study)
Authors: Reynolds Brice S. , Chetboul Valerie , Elliott Jonathan , Laxalde Jeremy , Nguyen Patrick , Testault Isabelle , Dorso Laëticia , Abadie Jérôme , Lefebvre Hervé P. , Biourge Vincent
Published: December 2023

Background

High‐salt diets promote urine dilution and decrease urolithiasis risk.

Objective

Prospectively evaluate the safety of chronic high dietary salt intake (randomized controlled trial).

Animals

Twenty research colony neutered, healthy aged cats (11.5 years [10.0‐11.6], median [interquartile range]).

Methods

Healthy cats were randomized to control or high‐salt dry diets (sodium: 1.02 ± 0.16 [mean, SD] and 3.26 ± 0.30 g/Mcal metabolizable energy [ME], respectively; chloride: 2.26 ± 0.33 and 5.71 ± 0.28 g/Mcal ME, respectively), fed for up to 60 months. Assessments included CBC, plasma biochemistry, urinalysis, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood pressure, renal and cardiac (conventional Doppler and 2‐dimensional color tissue Doppler) imaging, annually. Cats that died or were euthanized underwent necropsy. Diet effects over time were evaluated with linear mixed models.

Results

Follow‐up duration (median [Interquartile range]) was similar between the control (38.7 months [28.6‐48.2]) and high‐salt group (51.4 months [45.7‐59.0]). Diet had no significant effect on changes in GFR, blood pressure, plasma creatinine concentration, end‐diastolic left ventricular (LV) wall thicknesses, LV internal diameters, LV systolic function, left atrial size, or systolic and diastolic Doppler variables. One control cat developed hypertension. One high‐salt group cat developed persistent azotemia. Serial plasma biochemistry and urine specific gravity suggested early chronic kidney disease in 4 nonazotemic cats (2 per group), consistent with necropsy findings.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

In healthy aged cats, a commercial veterinary diet containing 3.26 ± 0.30 g/Mcal ME sodium was safe with regard to renal and cardiac function for up to 5 years.
A realist synthesis of prospective entrustment decision making by entrustment or clinical competency committees
Authors: Schumacher Daniel J. , Michelson Catherine , Winn Ariel S. , Turner David A. , Martini Abigail , Kinnear Benjamin
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The real‐world mechanisms underlying prospective entrustment decision making (PEDM) by entrustment or clinical competency committees (E/CCCs) are poorly understood. To advance understanding in this area, the authors conducted a realist synthesis of the published literature to address the following research question: In E/CCC efforts to make defensible prospective entrustment decisions (PEDs), what works, for whom, under what circumstances and why?

Methods

Realist work seeks to understand the contexts (C), mechanisms (M) and outcomes (O) that explain how and why things work (or do not). In the authors' study, contexts included individual E/CCC members, E/CCC structures and processes, and training programmes. The outcome (i.e. desired outcome) was a PED. Mechanisms were a substantial focus of the analysis and informed the core findings. To define a final corpus of 52 included papers, the authors searched four databases, screened all results from those searches and performed a full‐text review of a subset of screened papers. Data extraction focused on developing context–mechanism–outcome configurations from the papers, which were used to create a theory for how PEDM leads to PEDs.

Results

PEDM is often driven by default (non‐deliberate) decision making rather than a deliberate process of deciding whether a trainee should be entrusted or not. When defaulting, some E/CCCs find red flags that sometimes lead to being more deliberate with decision making. E/CCCs that seek to be deliberate describe PEDM that can be effortful (when data are insufficient or incongruent) or effortless (when data are robust and tell a congruent story about a trainee). Both information about trainee trustworthiness and the sufficiency of data about trainee performance influence PEDM. Several moderators influence what is considered to be sufficient data, how trustworthiness data are viewed and how PEDM is carried out. These include perceived consequences and associated risks, E/CCC member trust propensity, E/CCC member personal knowledge of and experience with trainees and E/CCC structures and processes.

Discussion

PEDM is rarely deliberate but should be. Data about trainee trustworthiness are foundational to making PEDs. Bias, equity and fairness are nearly absent from the papers in this synthesis, and future efforts must seek to advance understanding and practice regarding the roles of bias, equity and fairness in PEDM.
Tracing the serendipitous genesis of radiation resistance
Authors: Ujaoney Aman Kumar , Anaganti Narasimha , Padwal Mahesh Kumar , Basu Bhakti
Published: December 2023

Free‐living organisms frequently encounter unfavorable abiotic environmental factors. Those who adapt and cope with sudden changes in the external environment survive. Desiccation is one of the most common and frequently encountered stresses in nature. On the contrary, ionizing radiations are limited to high local concentrations of naturally occurring radioactive materials and related anthropogenic activities. Yet, resistance to high doses of ionizing radiation is evident across the tree of life. The evolution of desiccation resistance has been linked to the evolution of ionizing radiation resistance, although, evidence to support the idea that the evolution of desiccation tolerance is a necessary precursor to ionizing radiation resistance is lacking. Moreover, the presence of radioresistance in hyperthermophiles suggests multiple paths lead to radiation resistance. In this minireview, we focus on the molecular aspects of damage dynamics and damage response pathways comprising protective and restorative functions with a definitive survival advantage, to explore the serendipitous genesis of ionizing radiation resistance.
Transformation of PMMA from sunlight‐blocking to sunlight‐activated coupled with DNH photocatalytic platform for oxidative coupling of amines and generation/regeneration of LDC/NADH
Authors: Singh Satyam , Yadav Rajesh K. , Umar Ahmad , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Kim Tae Wu , Singh Atul Pratap , Kumar Rajesh , Chaudhary Sandeep , Dwivedi Dilip K. , Singh Ravindra Vikram , Gupta Navneet Kumar , Singh Chandani , Baeg Jin‐O. , Baskoutas Sotirios
Published: December 2023

The photocatalytic oxidation and generation/regeneration of amines to imines and leucodopaminechrome (LDC)/NADH are subjects of intense interest in contemporary research. Imines serve as crucial intermediates for the synthesis of solar fuels, fine chemicals, agricultural chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. While significant progress has been made in developing efficient processes for the oxidation and generation/regeneration of secondary amines, the oxidation of primary amines has received comparatively less attention until recently. This discrepancy can be attributed to the high reactivity of imines generated from primary amines, which are prone to dehydrogenation into nitriles. In this study, we present the synthesis and characterization of a novel polymer‐based photocatalyst, denoted as PMMA‐DNH, designed for solar light‐harvesting applications. PMMA‐DNH incorporates the light‐harvesting molecule dinitrophenyl hydrazine (DNH) at varying concentrations (5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%). Leveraging its high molar extinction coefficient and slow charge recombination, the 30% DNH‐incorporated PMMA photocatalyst proves to be particularly efficient. This photocatalytic system demonstrates exceptional yields (96.5%) in imine production and high generation/regeneration rates for LDC/NADH (65.27%/78.77%). The research presented herein emphasizes the development and application of a newly engineered polymer‐based photocatalyst, which holds significant promise for direct solar‐assisted chemical synthesis in diverse commercial applications.
Pediatric parenteral nutrition and hydroperoxide toxicity: Evaluation of the effectiveness of photoprotection medical devices
Authors: Nizet Pierre , Guillard Nicolas , Chabaud Lionel , Sellal Kamel‐Olivier , Lejus‐Bourdeau Corinne , Simon Laure , Navas Dominique , Olivier Emmanuelle , Clouet Johann , Lindenberg Fabien , Nativel Fabien
Published: December 2023

Exposure of parenteral nutrition (PN) to light induces hydroperoxide (HPO) formation whose toxicity, especially in pediatrics, is documented. In this context, we evaluated the efficacy of photoprotection medical devices used in our institution to protect PN from degradation after two different exposures to light. A mixed oil lipid emulsion (Smoflipid®) in standard or opaque syringes and a ternary PN mixture bags (Numetah®) with or without opaque overwrap were exposed for at least 420 min to a xenon lamp. Samples of Smoflipid® in standard or opaque syringes were also exposed for 24 h to conditions reproducing those of a neonatal intensive care unit. The use of opaque syringes for Smoflipid® administration or opaque overwraps for Numetah® administration reduced HPO formation by an average of 14% and 40%, respectively, compared to standard conditions after at least 420 min to a xenon lamp. When Smoflipid® samples were administered with standard or opaque syringes and exposed to a phototherapy lamp, the fold‐change in the HPO concentration increased, respectively, by 6.3 or 5.4 at 24 h compared with syringes unexposed to phototherapy lamp. Although the observed differences were non‐significant, it nonetheless appears prudent to use photoprotection of PN during administration, particularly in patients with immature or compromised antioxidant capacity.
Xanthomonas species causing leaf blight on eucalypt plants in Brazil and transfer of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. eucalyptorum to Xanthomonas citri pv. eucalyptorum comb. nov.
Authors: Ferraz Hélvio Gledson Maciel , Badel Jorge Luis , Neves Yane Fernandes , Eloi Ana Carolina Lopes , Vidigal Pedro Marcus Pereira , Guimarães Lúcio Mauro da Silva , Alfenas Acelino Couto
Published: December 2023

Outbreaks of bacterial leaf blight (BLB) frequently affect eucalypt plants under nursery and field conditions in several countries. Although research has been conducted to unveil the causal agent, different bacterial species have been associated with similar disease symptoms in different countries. In order to determine the causal agent of BLB in Brazil, a survey was conducted in nine states to recover bacterial isolates from eucalypt plants exhibiting typical BLB symptoms. A total of 41 yellow‐colony isolates with varying aggressiveness towards a susceptible eucalypt clone were obtained, with 16S rDNA sequences indicating that they belong to the Xanthomonas genus. Rep‐PCR analysis separated the Xanthomonas population affecting eucalypt into six distinct groups revealing its high genetic diversity. The same population formed three clusters together with reference strains of X. citri, X. euvesicatoria and X. phaseoli in a phylogenetic tree constructed with partial dnaK, fyuA, gyrB and rpoD gene sequences. Clustering in the phylogenetic tree was clearly related to grouping based on rep‐PCR. Genome sequence comparisons of representative eucalypt isolates with type strains of validly published Xanthomonas species confirmed that the population consisted of X. citri, X. euvesicatoria and X. phaseoli. Inoculation of tomato, common bean, castor bean and eucalypt plants showed that the representative eucalypt isolates can cause disease in these plant species. Based on the results, the transfer of Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. eucalyptorum to Xanthomonas citri is proposed. These results are relevant for eucalypt BLB management under nursery and field conditions, including selection and deployment of effective plant resistance.
Genome‐wide transcriptomic and functional analyses provide new insights into the response of spring barley to drought stress
Authors: Elakhdar Ammar , El‐Naggar Ahmed A. , Kubo Takahiko , Kumamaru Toshihiro
Published: December 2023

Drought is a major abiotic stress that impairs the physiology and development of plants, ultimately leading to crop yield losses. Drought tolerance is a complex quantitative trait influenced by multiple genes and metabolic pathways. However, molecular intricacies and subsequent morphological and physiological changes in response to drought stress remain elusive. Herein, we combined morpho‐physiological and comparative RNA‐sequencing analyses to identify core drought‐induced marker genes and regulatory networks in the barley cultivar ‘Giza134’. Based on field trials, drought‐induced declines occurred in crop growth rate, relative water content, leaf area duration, flag leaf area, concentration of chlorophyll (Chl) a, b and a + b, net photosynthesis, and yield components. In contrast, the Chl a/b ratio, stoma resistance, and proline concentration increased significantly. RNA‐sequence analysis identified a total of 2462 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), of which 1555 were up‐regulated and 907 were down‐regulated in response to water‐deficit stress (WD). Comparative transcriptomics analysis highlighted three unique metabolic pathways (carbohydrate metabolism, iron ion binding, and oxidoreductase activity) as containing genes differentially expressed that could mitigate water stress. Our results identified several drought‐induced marker genes belonging to diverse physiochemical functions like chlorophyll concentration, photosynthesis, light harvesting, gibberellin biosynthetic, iron homeostasis as well as Cis‐regulatory elements. These candidate genes can be utilized to identify gene‐associated markers to develop drought‐resilient barley cultivars over a short period of time. Our results provide new insights into the understanding of water stress response mechanisms in barley.
The effect of hair type and texture on electroencephalography and event‐related potential data quality
Authors: Lees Ty , Ram Nilam , Swingler Margaret M. , Gatzke‐Kopp Lisa M.
Published: December 2023

Research utilizing event‐related potential (ERP) methods is generally biased with regard to sample representativeness. Among the myriad of factors that contribute to sample bias are researchers' assumptions about the extent to which racial differences in hair texture, volume, and style impact electrode placement, and subsequently, study eligibility. The current study examines these impacts using data collected from n = 213 individuals ages 17–19 years, and offers guidance on collection of ERP data across the full spectrum of hair types. Individual differences were quantified for hair texture using a visual scale, and for hair volume by measuring the amount of gel used in cap preparation. Electroencephalography data quality was assessed with multiple metrics at the preprocessing, post‐processing, and variable generation stages. Results indicate that hair volume is associated with small, but systematic differences in signal quality and signal amplitude. Such differences are highly problematic as they could be misattributed to cognitive differences among groups. However, inclusion of gel volume as a covariate to account for individual differences in hair volume significantly reduced, and in most cases eliminated, group differences. We discuss strategies for overcoming real and perceived technical barriers for researchers seeking to achieve greater inclusivity and representativeness in ERP research.
Amyloodiniosis in aquaculture: A review
Authors: Moreira Márcio , Costas Benjamín , Rodrigues Pedro M. , Lourenço‐Marques Cátia , Sousa Rui , Schrama Denise , de Magalhães Cláudia Raposo , Farinha Ana Paula , Soares Florbela
Published: December 2023

Fish ectoparasites are one of the pathogens groups that pose great concern to the aquaculture industry. The dinoflagellate Amyloodinium ocellatum is responsible for amyloodiniosis, a parasitological disease with a strong economic impact in temperate and warm water aquaculture, mainly in earthen pond semi‐intensive systems. Amyloodiniosis represents one of the most important bottlenecks for aquaculture and, with the predictable expansion of the area of influence of this parasite to higher latitudes due to global warming it might also be a threat to other aquaculture species that are not yet parasitized by A. ocellatum. This review made a compilation of the existing knowledge about this parasite and the disease associated with it. It was noticed that, except from the life cycle characterisation, detection methods, histopathological analysis, and treatments, there are still a lot of areas that need a further investment in research. Areas like parasite–host interactions, epidemiological models, taxonomy, host physiological responses to parasitism, and genome sequencing, amongst others, can contribute to a better understanding of this disease. These proposed approaches and routes of investigation will enhance and contribute to a more standardised knowledge, creating the opportunity for a better understanding of amyloodiniosis impacts on fish and contributing for the development of new tools against A. ocellatum, that may reduce fish mortality in aquaculture production due to amyloodiniosis outbreaks.
Average and heterogeneous effects of smallholder farm sizes on dietary diversity in northern Ghana
Authors: Addai Kwabena Nyarko , Ng'ombe John N. , Temoso Omphile
Published: December 2023

The relationship between farm size and dietary diversity has recently gained attention among development practitioners and policymakers. To study this issue, we utilized cross‐sectional data from 900 farm households in Northern Ghana. The analysis employs three econometric approaches—ordinary least squares, two‐stage least squares, and instrumental variable (IV) quantile regression. We subjected our estimates to Conley‐Hansen‐Rossi bound tests to assess the validity of total farmland under household control as an IV for farm size, which serves to illustrate the robustness of the causal inferences linking farm size to household dietary diversity. The results show that a 1‐ha increase in cultivated land improves household dietary diversity score by 3.221 units. The effect of cultivated land on dietary diversity is enhanced by market information, use of improved seeds, chemical fertilizers and herbicides, and overall household asset value. In conclusion, the results indicate that farm size increases household dietary diversity when moving along the dietary diversity distribution. This highlights the importance of considering the influence of farm size at different points along the conditional dietary diversity score distribution, as relying solely on mean effects may obscure important counteracting effects.
Phylogenomic species delimitation of the twisted‐winged parasite genus Stylops (Strepsiptera)
Authors: Lähteenaro Meri , Straka Jakub , Forshage Mattias , Hovmöller Rasmus , Nakase Yuta , Nilsson Anders L. , Smit John T. , Nylander Johan A. A. , Bergsten Johannes
Published: December 2023

The twisted‐winged parasite genus Stylops has a history of different species concepts with varying host specificity resulting in diverse species diversity estimates in different regions of the Holarctic. The adoption of a supergeneralist species concept in Europe, proposing synonymization of all Western Palaearctic Stylops species, did not facilitate taxonomic clarity and obscured the available life‐history data in the region for decades. Lack of molecular data has allowed divergent opinions on species hypotheses and little opportunity for evaluating them in this morphologically challenging genus. To solve these discrepancies and gain novel information about host associations, we applied whole‐genome sequencing to 163 specimens, representing a significant portion of putative European species. We evaluate the existing and conflicting species hypotheses with molecular species delimitation using Species bOundry Delimitation using Astral (SODA) and use a maximum likelihood phylogeny to investigate host associations of the species. Furthermore, we evaluate the effect of a number of loci used in SODA for the number of inferred species. We find justification for synonymization of multiple species and indications of undescribed species, as well as new host–parasite relationships. We show that the number of inferred species in SODA is exceedingly and positively correlated with the number of loci used, urging for cautious application. The results of our study bring clarity to the Western Palaearctic species diversity of Stylops. Furthermore, the comprehensive molecular dataset generated in this study will be a valuable resource for future studies on Stylops and the evolution of parasites in general.
Cosmetic gynaecology
Authors: Bugeja Roberta , McConnell James , Jha Swati
Published: December 2023

Key content

Female genital cosmetic surgery (FGCS) includes several procedures involving the labia minora, labia majora, clitoris, vagina, mons pubis and genital area; procedures may involve, for example, reduction or augmentation and be surgical or energy based.

Indications for FGCS can be broadly divided into cosmetic and functional reasons.

Counselling on the risks and cosmetic outcomes, as well as sexual and functional results, should be provided, and the woman's expectations discussed.

Learning objectives

To develop a holistic view when discussing cosmetic gynaecology concerns, including psychosexual assessment.

To understand the procedures that are currently available, the evidence‐base behind these procedures, and their risks and benefits.

To understand the implications of genital cosmetic surgery on patients, including their psychosexual wellbeing, and the legality of these procedures with reference to female genital mutilation (FGM).

Ethical issues

The ‘postcode lottery’ in commissioning cosmetic gynaecological procedures in the UK leads to the question: should they be available on the NHS?

Who should be performing cosmetic gynaecological procedures: the plastic surgeons who do little vaginal surgery, or the gynaecologists?

There is currently no formal training in this area for gynaecologists.
Environment rather than breed or body site shapes the skin bacterial community of healthy sheep as revealed by metabarcoding
Authors: Jost Stéphanie M. , Cardona Laëtitia , Rohrbach Emmanuelle , Mathis Alexander , Holliger Christof , Verhulst Niels O.
Published: December 2023

Background

The skin is inhabited by a variety of micro‐organisms, with bacteria representing the predominant taxon of the skin microbiome. In sheep, the skin bacterial community of healthy animals has been addressed in few studies, only with culture‐based methods or sequencing of cloned amplicons.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to determine the sheep skin bacterial community composition by using metabarcoding for a detailed characterisation and to determine the effect of body part, breed and environment.

Materials and Methods

Overall, 267 samples were taken from 89 adult female sheep, belonging to three different breeds and kept on nine different farms in Switzerland. From every individual, one sample each was taken from belly, left ear and left leg and metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA V3–V4 hypervariable region was performed.

Results

The main phyla identified were Actinobacteriota, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Bacteriodota. The alpha diversity as determined by Shannon's diversity index was significantly different between sheep from different farms. Beta diversity analysis by principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) showed clustering of the samples by farm and body site, while breed had only a marginal influence. A sparse partial least squares discriminant analysis (sPLS‐DA) revealed seven main groups of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of which groups of OTUs were specific for some farms.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

These findings indicate that environment has a larger influence on skin microbial variability than breed, although the sampled breeds, the most abundant ones in Switzerland, are phenotypically similar. Future studies on the sheep skin microbiome may lead to novel insights in skin diseases and prevention.
Oscillatory vs. non‐oscillatory subthalamic beta activity in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Pardo‐Valencia Jesús , Fernández‐García Carla , Alonso‐Frech Fernando , Foffani Guglielmo
Published: December 2023

Parkinson's disease is characterized by exaggerated beta activity (13–35 Hz) in cortico‐basal ganglia motor loops. Beta activity includes both periodic fluctuations (i.e. oscillatory activity) and aperiodic fluctuations reflecting spiking activity and excitation/inhibition balance (i.e. non‐oscillatory activity). However, the relative contribution, dopamine dependency and clinical correlations of oscillatory vs. non‐oscillatory beta activity remain unclear. We recorded, modelled and analysed subthalamic local field potentials in parkinsonian patients at rest while off or on medication. Autoregressive modelling with additive 1/f noise clarified the relationships between measures of beta activity in the time domain (i.e. amplitude and duration of beta bursts) or in the frequency domain (i.e. power and sharpness of the spectral peak) and oscillatory vs. non‐oscillatory activity: burst duration and spectral sharpness are specifically sensitive to oscillatory activity, whereas burst amplitude and spectral power are ambiguously sensitive to both oscillatory and non‐oscillatory activity. Our experimental data confirmed the model predictions and assumptions. We subsequently analysed the effect of levodopa, obtaining strong‐to‐extreme Bayesian evidence that oscillatory beta activity is reduced in patients on vs. off medication, with moderate evidence for absence of modulation of the non‐oscillatory component. Finally, specifically the oscillatory component of beta activity correlated with the rate of motor progression of the disease. Methodologically, these results provide an integrative understanding of beta‐based biomarkers relevant for adaptive deep brain stimulation. Biologically, they suggest that primarily the oscillatory component of subthalamic beta activity is dopamine dependent and may play a role not only in the pathophysiology but also in the progression of Parkinson's disease.

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Key points

Beta activity in Parkinson's disease includes both true periodic fluctuations (i.e. oscillatory activity) and aperiodic fluctuations reflecting spiking activity and synaptic balance (i.e. non‐oscillatory activity).

The relative contribution, dopamine dependency and clinical correlations of oscillatory vs. non‐oscillatory beta activity remain unclear.

Burst duration and spectral sharpness are specifically sensitive to oscillatory activity, while burst amplitude and spectral power are ambiguously sensitive to both oscillatory and non‐oscillatory activity.

Only the oscillatory component of subthalamic beta activity is dopamine‐dependent.

Stronger beta oscillatory activity correlates with faster motor progression of the disease.