bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Irrigation optimization enhances water management and tree performance in commercial citrus groves on sandy soil
Authors: Atta Alisheikh A. , Morgan Kelly T. , Hamido Said A. , Kadyampakeni Davie M.
Published: May 2024

Citrus production in Florida accounts for nearly 50% of national production in the United States. The goal of this study was to determine the impact of varying irrigation levels on tree growth, leaf nutrient concentrations, and water relations at selected citrus tree densities. During most of the year, significant water distribution and movement were detected across soil horizons as a function of irrigation applied and capillary water rising from the water table. As a result, significant fibrous root length densities (FRLD), median root lifespan, and leaf nutrient concentration were observed in the three-row and two-row experiments with deficit (50%-crop evapotranspiration, (ETc) and moderate (78%-ETc) irrigation regimes, respectively. Stomata conductance and stem water potential (y) portray less water stress of the trees when they received moderate irrigation in the low and moderate tree densities than the highest tree density. Moderate irrigation triggered FRLD and improved root survival probability and root lifespan. As a result, irrigation management improved water availability, plant nutrition, and tree growth while efficiently utilizing resources.
Sex-specific ventricular morphology, function, and tissue characteristics in arterial hypertension: a magnetic resonance study of the Hamburg city health cohort
Authors: Erley Jennifer , Jahnke Charlotte M. , Schüttler Samuel , Molwitz Isabel , Chen Hang , Meyer Mathias , Muellerleile Kai , Cavus Ersin , Lund Gunnar K. , Blankenberg Stefan , Adam Gerhard , Tahir Enver
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine the influence of arterial hypertension (AHT), sex, and the interaction between both left- and right ventricular (LV, RV) morphology, function, and tissue characteristics.

Methods

The Hamburg City Health Study (HCHS) is a population-based, prospective, monocentric study. 1972 individuals without a history of cardiac diseases/ interventions underwent 3 T cardiac MR imaging (CMR). Generalized linear models were conducted, including AHT, sex (and the interaction if significant), age, body mass index, place of birth, diabetes mellitus, smoking, hyperlipoproteinemia, atrial fibrillation, and medication.

Results

Of 1972 subjects, 68% suffered from AHT. 42% with AHT and 49% controls were female. Females overall showed a higher ejection fraction (EF) (LV: regression coefficient +2.4% [95% confidence interval: 1.7; 3.1]), lower volumes and LV mass (−19.8% [−21.3; −18.5]), and prolonged native septal T1 (+22.1 ms [18.3; 25.9])/T2 relaxation times (+1.1 ms [0.9; 1.3]) (all p < 0.001) compared to males. Subjects with AHT showed a higher EF (LV: +1.2% [0.3; 2.0], p = 0.009) and LV mass (+6.6% [4.3; 9.0], p < 0.001) than controls. The interaction between sex and AHT influenced mapping. After excluding segments with LGE, males (−0.7 ms [−1.0; −0.3 | ) and females with AHT (−1.1 ms [−1.6; −0.6]) showed shorter T2 relaxation times than the sex-respective controls (p < 0.001), but the effect was stronger in females.

Conclusion

In the HCHS, female and male subjects with AHT likewise showed a higher EF and LV mass than controls, independent of sex. However, differences in tissue characteristics between subjects with AHT and controls appeared to be sex-specific.

Clinical relevance statement

The interaction between sex and cardiac risk factors is an underestimated factor that should be considered when comparing tissue characteristics between hypertensive subjects and controls, and when establishing cut-off values for normal and pathological relaxation times.

Key Points

There are sex-dependent differences in arterial hypertension, but it is unclear if cardiac MR parameters are sex-specific.

Differences in cardiac MR parameters between hypertensive subjects and healthy controls appeared to be sex-specific for tissue characteristics.

Sex needs to be considered when comparing tissue characteristics in patients with arterial hypertension to healthy controls.

Graphical Abstract
MiR-34a-5p suppresses cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma progression by targeting SIRT6
Authors: Chen Sai , Yuan Muxing , Chen Hongxia , Wu Tong , Wu Tianqi , Zhang Dongmei , Miao Xu , Shi Jian
Published: May 2024

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is a malignant tumor originating from epidermal or appendageal keratinocytes, with a rising incidence in recent years. Understanding the molecular mechanism driving its development is crucial. This study aims to investigate whether miR-34a-5p is involved in the pathogenesis of cSCC by targeting Sirtuin 6 (SIRT6).The expression levels of miR-34a-5p and SIRT6 were determined in 15 cSCC tissue specimens, 15 normal tissue specimens and cultured cells via real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted to evaluate the relationship between miR-34a-5p and SIRT6 expression levels in cSCC tissues. A431 and SCL-1 cells were transfected with miR-34a-5p mimic, negative control or miR-34a-5p mimic together with recombinant plasmids containing SIRT6 gene. Cell counting kit-8, clone formation assay, wound healing assay, and flow cytometry were employed to assess the effects of these transfections on proliferation, migration, and apoptosis, respectively. The interaction between miR-34a-5p and SIRT6 was characterized using a dual-luciferase reporter assay.MiR-34a-5p expression was down-regulated in cSCC tissues significantly, while the SIRT6 expression was the opposite. A negative correlation was observed between the expression of miR-34a-5p and SIRT6 in cSCC tissues. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-34a-5p led to a significant reduction in the proliferation and migration abilities of A431 and SCL-1 cells, accompanied by an increase in apoptosis levels and a decrease in SIRT6 expression levels. MiR-34a-5p was identified as a direct target of SIRT6. Importantly, overexpression of SIRT6 effectively counteracted the inhibitory effect mediated by miR-34a-5p in cSCC cells.Our findings suggest that miR-34a-5p functions as a tumor suppressor in cSCC cells by targeting SIRT6.
Risk factors and clinical significance of lower perigastric lymph node metastases in Siewert type II and III esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Qi Xinyu , Liu Maoxing , Xu Kai , Tan Fei , Gao Pin , Yao Zhendan , Zhang Nan , Yang Hong , Zhang Chenghai , Xing Jiadi , Cui Ming , Su Xiangqian
Published: May 2024

Background

No consensus has been concluded with regarding to the scope of lymph node (LN) dissection for Siewert type II and III adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEG). This study aimed to explore risk factors for lower perigastric LN (LPLN) metastases (including no. 4d, 5, 6, and 12a LN stations) and analyze the indications for LPLN dissection.

Methods

In total, 302 consecutive patients with Siewert type II and III AEG who underwent total gastrectomy (TG) were enrolled. The logistic regression model was used to perform uni- and multivariate analyses of risk factors for LPLN metastases. Kaplan–Meier curves were used for survival analysis, and log-rank tests were used for group comparisons. Basing on the guidelines of Japanese Gastric Cancer Association, the LN metastases (LNM) as well as the efficiency index (EI) of each LN station was further evaluated.

Results

The independent risk factors for LPLN metastases in patients with Siewert type II and III AEG were distance from the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) to the distal end of the tumor (> 4.0 cm), preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) ( +), pT4 stage, and HER-2 ( +). LPLN metastases was an independent risk factor for overall survival following TG. The LNM and EI of LPLN were 8.6% and 2.31%, respectively. The LNM of LPLN > 10% under the stratification of the distance from the EGJ to the distal end of the tumor (> 4.0 cm), pT4, preoperative CEA ( +), and HER-2 ( +) exhibited EI values of 3.55%, 2.09%, 2.51%, and 3.64%, respectively.

Conclusions

LPLN metastases was a malignant factor for the prognosis of patients with Siewert type II and III AEG. For patients with preoperative CEA ( +), pT4 stage, HER-2 ( +), and the distance from the EGJ to the distal end of the tumor (> 4.0 cm), TG with LPLN dissection is prioritized for clinical recommendation.
Interactive digital tools to support empowerment of people with cancer: a systematic literature review
Authors: Tuominen Leena , Leino-Kilpi Helena , Poraharju Jenna , Cabutto Daniela , Carrion Carme , Lehtiö Leeni , Moretó Sónia , Stolt Minna , Sulosaari Virpi , Virtanen Heli
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To identify and synthesise interactive digital tools used to support the empowerment of people with cancer and the outcomes of these tools.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane, Eric, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases in May 2023. Inclusion criteria were patient empowerment as an outcome supported by interactive digital tools expressed in study goal, methods or results, peer-reviewed studies published since 2010 in cancer care. Narrative synthesis was applied, and the quality of the studies was assessed following Joanna Briggs Institute checklists.

Results

Out of 1571 records screened, 39 studies published in 2011–2022 with RCT (17), single-arm trial (15), quasi-experimental (1), and qualitative designs (6) were included. A total of 30 interactive digital tools were identified to support empowerment (4) and related aspects, such as self-management (2), coping (4), patient activation (9), and self-efficacy (19). Significant positive effects were found on empowerment (1), self-management (1), coping (1), patient activation (2), and self-efficacy (10). Patient experiences were positive. Interactivity occurred with the tool itself (22), peers (7), or nurses (7), physicians (2), psychologists, (2) or social workers (1).

Conclusion

Interactive digital tools have been developed extensively in recent years, varying in terms of content and methodology, favouring feasibility and pilot designs. In all of the tools, people with cancer are either active or recipients of information. The research evidence indicates positive outcomes for patient empowerment through interactive digital tools. Thus, even though promising, there still is need for further testing of the tools.
Theoriebezüge in der systemischen Therapie
Authors: Wagner Elisabeth
Published: May 2024

Die enorme Binnendifferenzierung der Systemischen Therapie bietet zwar eine nützliche Vielfalt an Interventionsmöglichkeiten, führt auf der theoretischen Ebene jedoch zu Unvereinbarkeiten und Widersprüchen. Dies erschwert nicht nur die Vermittlung der systemtheoretischen Grundlagen in der Ausbildung sondern auch eine verlässliche theoretische Fundierung des professionellen Handelns von Praktiker:innen. Nach einer grundsätzlichen Diskussion des Theorie-Praxisverhältnisses in der Psychotherapie, soll in diesem Beitrag dargelegt werden, wie eine konstruktivistische Grundhaltung die absichtsvolle und reflektierte Nutzung verschiedener Systemtheorien erlaubt. Dabei werden die soziologische Systemtheorie sensu Luhmann und die Synergetik in Hinblick auf ihr Auflösungsvermögen und die Passung für verschiedene Phänomenbereiche gegenübergestellt und Anforderungen an eine klinische Theorie der systemischen Therapie definiert.
Beyond the acute: pain in long COVID survivors at 1.5 years
Authors: Oguz-Akarsu Emel , Gullu Gizem , Kilic Erhan , Dinç Yasemin , Akdag Gonul , Rehber Cansu , Karli Necdet
Published: May 2024

Objective

Long COVID, characterized by persistent symptoms post-acute COVID-19, remains a subject of intense investigation. This study focuses on pain, a common and notable symptom reported by long COVID patients.

Method

A cohort of 191 individuals, initially diagnosed with mild-to-moderate COVID-19, was followed up 1.5 years later to assess the frequency, clinical characteristics, and factors associated with pain persistence.

Results

Our study revealed that 31.9% of participants experienced at least one persistent pain symptom after 1.5 years. Headache emerged as the most prevalent symptom (29.8%), followed by myalgia (5.8%) and neuropathic pain (4.2%). Factors such as female gender and the presence of neuropathic pain symptom were identified as predictors of long-term headaches. Myalgia, showed associations with headache, arthralgia, and low ferritin levels. Persistent neuropathic pain symptom (4.2%) was linked to older age, female gender, sore throat, and headache.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the evolution of pain symptoms over time after COVID-19 infection, emphasizing the interconnection between different pain syndromes. This research contributes to understanding the diverse and evolving nature of pain in long COVID survivors, offering valuable insights for targeted interventions and further investigations into the underlying mechanisms of persistent pain.
Escaping the Loop of Unsustainability: Why and How Business Ethics Matters for Earth System Justice
Authors: Schneider Anselm , Murray John
Published: May 2024

Contemporary society operates beyond safe boundaries of the Earth system. Returning to a safe operating space for humanity within Earth system boundaries is a question of justice. The relevance of the economy—and thus of business—for bringing society back to a safe and just operating space highlights the importance of business ethics research for understanding the role of business in Earth system justice. In this commentary, we explore the relevance of business ethics research for understanding the crucial role of business in the dynamics of the Earth system. We do so by integrating the perspectives of business ethics and system-oriented sustainability science on the basis of the theory of metabolic rift, which explains how the dynamics of capitalism result in the destruction of the natural environment. On this basis, we argue that a mutually reinforcing relationship between perpetual economic growth and profit seeking behaviour of business, which we call the loop of unsustainability, continually deepens the metabolic rift and keeps business from effectively contributing to Earth system justice. This perspective allows us to formulate firm-level and system-level preconditions for attaining Earth system justice, and to sketch a research agenda that links business ethics scholarship with questions of Earth system justice.
Naturalised Inferentialism and the Incompleteness Problem
Authors: Reinikainen Jaakko
Published: May 2024

The paper argues that the naturalised version of semantic inferentialism advanced by Jaroslav Peregrin faces a problem which, following Michael Devitt, I call the incompleteness problem. The main issue has to do with how, according to inferentialism, language is connected to the world. My main claim is that Peregrin’s Protagorean account of correctness is in tension with the idea, made also by Robert Brandom, that language is embodied in the world analogically to how physical objects are embodied in games like football. Against this, I show the two are in fact importantly disanalogical. To solve the incompleteness problem, I argue that naturalised inferentialism should learn the central lessons of semantic externalism, namely that the connection between language and the world must be fundamentally external to the mind, or in Peregrin’s case, to the society of normative attitudes.
State of the art in movement around a remote point: a review of remote center of motion in robotics
Authors: Zhang Wuxiang , Wang Zhi , Ma Ke , Liu Fei , Cheng Pengzhi , Ding Xilun
Published: May 2024

The concept of remote center of motion (RCM) is pivotal in a myriad of robotic applications, encompassing areas such as medical robotics, orientation devices, and exoskeletal systems. The efficacy of RCM technology is a determining factor in the success of these robotic domains. This paper offers an exhaustive review of RCM technologies, elaborating on their various methodologies and practical implementations. It delves into the unique characteristics of RCM across different degrees of freedom (DOFs), aiming to distill their fundamental principles. In addition, this paper categorizes RCM approaches into two primary classifications: design based and control based. These are further organized according to their respective DOFs, providing a concise summary of their core methodologies. Building upon the understanding of RCM’s versatile capabilities, this paper then transitions to an in-depth exploration of its applications across diverse robotic fields. Concluding this review, we critically analyze the existing research challenges and issues that are inherently present in both RCM methodologies and their applications. This discussion is intended to serve as a guiding framework for future research endeavors and practical deployments in related areas.
Antibiotics-Induced Intestinal Immunomodulation Attenuates Experimental Autoimmune Neuritis (EAN)
Authors: Sprenger-Svačina Alina , Klein Ines , Svačina Martin K. R. , Bobylev Ilja , Kohle Felix , Schneider Christian , Schweitzer Finja , Piekarek Nadin , Barham Mohammed , Vehreschild Maria J. G. T. , Lehmann Helmar C. , Farowski Fedja
Published: May 2024

Background

The composition of gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in priming the immune system and thus impacts autoimmune diseases. Data on the effects of gut bacteria eradication via systemic antibiotics on immune neuropathies are currently lacking. This study therefore assessed the effects of antibiotics-induced gut microbiota alterations on the severity of experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN), a rat model of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). Myelin P0 peptide 180–199 (P0 180–199)-induced EAN severity was compared between adult Lewis rats (12 weeks old) that received drinking water with or without antibiotics (colistin, metronidazole, vancomycin) and healthy rats, beginning antibiotics treatment immediately after immunization (day 0), and continuing treatment for 14 consecutive days. Neuropathy severity was assessed via a modified clinical score, and then related to gut microbiota alterations observed after fecal 16S rRNA gene sequencing at baseline and after EAN induction. Effectors of gut mucosal and endoneurial immunity were assessed via immunostaining. EAN rats showed increased gut mucosal permeability alongside increased mucosal CD8+ T cells compared to healthy controls. Antibiotics treatment alleviated clinical EAN severity and reduced endoneurial T cell infiltration, decreased gut mucosal CD8+ T cells and increased gut bacteria that may be associated with anti-inflammatory mechanisms, like Lactobacillus or Parasutterella. Our findings point out a relation between gut mucosal immunity and the pathogenesis of EAN, and indicate that antibiotics-induced intestinal immunomodulation might be a therapeutic approach to alleviate autoimmunity in immune neuropathies. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the clinical transferability of these findings to patients with GBS.

Graphical Abstract
Sharper vision, steady hands: can robots improve subretinal drug delivery? Systematic review
Authors: Łajczak Paweł Marek , Nawrat Zbigniew
Published: May 2024

Subretinal injection (SI) is a novel drug delivery method, directly to retina for treatment of various eye disease. However, manual injection requires surgical experience and precision due to physiological factors. Robots offer solution to this issue, by reducing hand tremor and increased accuracy. This systematic review analyzes current status on robot-assisted SI compared to conventional techniques. Systematic search across 5 databases was conducted to identify studies comparing manual and robot-assisted SI procedures. Extracted data included robotic systems, complications, and success rates. Four studies, including one human trial, two ex vivo porcine eye studies, and one artificial eye model study were included in the synthesis. The findings show early advantages of robot-assisted SI. Compared to traditional interventions, robot procedures result in reduced tremor, what potentially lowers the risk of complications, including retinal tears and reflux. The first in-human randomized trial showed encouraging results, with no significant differences in surgical times or complications between robot-assisted and manual SI. However, major limitation of robot-assisted procedures is longer procedure time. Robot-assisted SI holds promise by offering increased precision and stability, reducing human error and potentially improving clinical outcomes. Challenges include cost, availability, and learning curve. Overall, early stage of robot-assisted SI suggests advantages in precision, complication reduction, and potentially improved drug delivery. Further research in human randomized trials is needed to fully assess its full-scale clinical application.
Problems and related results in algebraic vision and multiview geometry
Authors: Bertolini Marina , Turrini Cristina
Published: May 2024

This article is a survey of results in algebraic vision and multiview geometry. The starting point is the study of projective algebraic varieties which are critical for scene reconstruction. Initially studied for reconstructing static scenes in three-dimensional spaces, these critical loci are later investigated for dynamic and segmented scenes in higher-dimensional projective spaces. The formal analysis of the ideals of critical loci employs Grassmann tensors, introduced as crucial tools for determining these ideals and aiding the reconstruction process away from critical loci. A long-term goal of the authors with other co-authors involves two main aspects: firstly studying properties of Grassmann tensors, as rank, multi-rank and core, along with the varieties that parameterize these tensors; concurrently conducting an analysis of families of critical loci in various scenarios.
Enhancing the Performance of Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes via Synergistic Effect of Defect Passivation and Dielectric Screening
Authors: Yu Xuanchi , Guo Jia , Mao Yulin , Shan Chengwei , Tian Fengshou , Meng Bingheng , Wang Zhaojin , Zhang Tianqi , Kyaw Aung Ko Ko , Chen Shuming , Sun Xiaowei , Wang Kai , Chen Rui , Xing Guichuan
Published: May 2024

Metal halide perovskites, particularly the quasi-two-dimensional perovskite subclass, have exhibited considerable potential for next-generation electroluminescent materials for lighting and display. Nevertheless, the presence of defects within these perovskites has a substantial influence on the emission efficiency and durability of the devices. In this study, we revealed a synergistic passivation mechanism on perovskite films by using a dual-functional compound of potassium bromide. The dual functional potassium bromide on the one hand can passivate the defects of halide vacancies with bromine anions and, on the other hand, can screen the charged defects at the grain boundaries with potassium cations. This approach effectively reduces the probability of carriers quenching resulting from charged defects capture and consequently enhances the radiative recombination efficiency of perovskite thin films, leading to a significant enhancement of photoluminescence quantum yield to near-unity values (95%). Meanwhile, the potassium bromide treatment promoted the growth of homogeneous and smooth film, facilitating the charge carrier injection in the devices. Consequently, the perovskite light-emitting diodes based on this strategy achieve a maximum external quantum efficiency of ~ 21% and maximum luminance of ~ 60,000 cd m−2. This work provides a deeper insight into the passivation mechanism of ionic compound additives in perovskite with the solution method.
Research progress and application of two-dimensional materials for surface-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Zhang Weida , Peng Yusi , Lin Chenglong , Xu Meimei , Zhao Shuai , Masaki Tanemura , Yang Yong
Published: May 2024

Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) is a pivotal detection technology that identifies molecular spectral signals at the single-molecule level. Owing to its sensitivity and non-destructive nature, SERS has found extensive applications in diverse fields such as environmental science, medical diagnosis, food safety, and bioanalysis. In recent years, two-dimensional materials have emerged as one prominent novel SERS-active nanomaterials due to their unique physical and chemical properties. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the enhancement mechanism of SERS, substrate preparation, and its applications in biosensing, environmental detection, and food safety. It delves into the widely accepted basic theory and enhancement mechanism of SERS, along with common methods to boost SERS performance, including doping with other elements, applying stress and strain, forming defects, and amorphous processing. This paper examines the current state of research on two-dimensional(2D) materials and their application in the field of SERS. Additionally, it provides an viewpoints on recent advancements in the use of this technology for virus and cancer detection. Lastly, it discusses the future prospects for the development of SERS technology.
Simulation as a potential tool for successful clinical trial initiation
Authors: Dadiz Rita , Jones Rachel , Guillet Ronnie
Published: May 2024

Conducting clinical trials is often complex and involves many individuals from a variety of services, each with a specific role in ensuring its successful implementation. Although an experienced clinical trialist may anticipate many of the challenges, others may be unexpected and detrimental to the successful completion of a study. We describe the use of simulation during preparation for initiation of a randomized clinical trial of a new preparation of antiseizure medication in neonates with seizures. The process of identification of stakeholders and roles, scenario development, and identification of challenges are described. Lessons learned included the potential benefits of simulation exercises, simulation challenges, and challenges associated with the study itself. We posit that going through the steps of a study, rather than merely reading them from a manual of procedures, will help identify potential barriers, complexities, and contingencies that are not readily apparent and may result in fewer protocol deviations and violations.
Indistinguishable asymptotic pairs and multidimensional Sturmian configurations
Authors: BARBIERI SEBASTIÁN , LABBÉ SÉBASTIEN
Published: May 2024

Two asymptotic configurations on a full
$\mathbb {Z}^d$
-shift are indistinguishable if, for every finite pattern, the associated sets of occurrences in each configuration coincide up to a finitely supported permutation of
$\mathbb {Z}^d$
. We prove that indistinguishable asymptotic pairs satisfying a ‘flip condition’ are characterized by their pattern complexity on finite connected supports. Furthermore, we prove that uniformly recurrent indistinguishable asymptotic pairs satisfying the flip condition are described by codimension-one (dimension of the internal space) cut and project schemes, which symbolically correspond to multidimensional Sturmian configurations. Together, the two results provide a generalization to
$\mathbb {Z}^d$
of the characterization of Sturmian sequences by their factor complexity
$n+1$
. Many open questions are raised by the current work and are listed in the introduction.
Repeat tracheal aspirate cultures in pediatric intensive care patients: Frequency, resistance, and antimicrobial use
Authors: Lyon Edward , Goldman Jennifer , Lee Brian , Campbell Margaret , Selvarangan Rangaraj , Monsees Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the clinical impact and features associated with repeat tracheal aspirate (TA) cultures in children admitted to the intensive care unit.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

A 338-bed freestanding, tertiary pediatric academic medical center with pediatric medical intensive care unit (PICU) and cardiac intensive care units (CICU).

Patients:

Children ≤18 years of age who were admitted to either the PICU or CICU who had ≥2 TA cultures in a single intensive care admission.

Methods:

Patients with ≥2 TA cultures between 2018 and 2019 were included in this study. The following information was collected: patient demographics, clinical data summarizing patient condition at the time of culture collection, number of TA cultures per patient, antibiotic usage, and microbiologic data. Descriptive statistics established the frequency of TA collection, time between culturing, clinical reasoning for collection, antibiotic exposure, and development of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO).

Results:

Sixty-three patients had repeat TA cultures and accounted for 252 TA cultures during the study period. Most patients with repeat TA cultures were admitted to the PICU (71%) and were male (65%). A median of 3 TA cultures per patient were obtained with 50% of repeat cultures occurring within 7 days from the previous culture. Sixty-six percent of patients had the same organism cultured on ≥2 TA cultures. Most antibiotics were not modified or continued to treat the results of the TA culture.

Conclusions:

Repeat TA cultures frequently show the same pathogens, and results do not often influence antibiotic selection or usage. Repeat TA cultures did demonstrate the development of MDROs.
Two-dimensional turbulence above topography: condensation transition and selection of minimum enstrophy solutions
Authors: Gallet Basile
Published: May 2024

We consider two-dimensional flows above topography, revisiting the selective decay (or minimum enstrophy) hypothesis of Bretherton and Haidvogel. We derive a ‘condensed branch’ of solutions to the variational problem where a domain-scale condensate coexists with a flow at the (smaller) scale of the topography. The condensate arises through a supercritical bifurcation as the conserved energy of the initial condition exceeds a threshold value, a prediction that we quantitatively validate using direct numerical simulations. We then consider the forced–dissipative case, showing how weak forcing and dissipation select a single dissipative state out of the continuum of solutions to the energy-conserving system predicted by selective decay. As the forcing strength increases, the condensate arises through a supercritical bifurcation for topographic-scale forcing and through a subcritical bifurcation for domain-scale forcing, both predictions being quantitatively validated by direct numerical simulations. This method provides a way of determining the equilibrated state of forced–dissipative flows based on variational approaches to the associated energy-conserving system, such as the statistical mechanics of two-dimensional flows or selective decay.
Cross-sectional relationship between dietary protein intake, energy intake and protein energy wasting in chronic kidney disease patients
Authors: Han Qianqian , Zhang Rui , Wu Jianping , He Fengyi , Qing Fengchu , Li Wenlu , Chen Chaogang , Yang Qiongqiong
Published: May 2024

The potential threshold for dietary energy intake (DEI) that might prevent protein-energy wasting (PEW) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is uncertain. The subjects were non-dialysis CKD patients aged ≥ 14 years who were hospitalised from September 2019 to July 2022. PEW was measured by subjective global assessment. DEI and dietary protein intake (DPI) were obtained by 3-d diet recalls. Patients were divided into adequate DEI group and inadequate DEI group according to DEI ≥ 30 or < 30 kcal/kg/d. Logistic regression analysis and restricted cubic spline were used in this study. We enrolled 409 patients, with 53·8 % had hypertension and 18·6 % had diabetes. The DEI and DPI were 27·63 (sd 5·79) kcal/kg/d and 1·00 (0·90, 1·20) g/kg/d, respectively. 69·2 % of participants are in the inadequate DEI group. Malnutrition occurred in 18·6 % of patients. Comparing with patients in the adequate DEI group, those in the inadequate DEI group had significantly lower total lymphocyte count, serum cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and a higher prevalence of PEW. For every 1 kcal/kg/d increase in DEI, the incidence of PEW was reduced by 12·0 % (OR: 0·880, 95 % CI: 0·830, 0·933, P < 0·001). There was a nonlinear curve relationship between DEI and PEW (overall P < 0·001), and DEI ≥ 27·6 kcal/kg/d may have a preventive effect on PEW in CKD. Low DPI was also significantly associated with malnutrition, but not when DEI was adequate. Decreased energy intake may be a more important factor of PEW in CKD than protein intake.
Exploration of the state-of-the-art of maritime transport safety research: a bibliometric and visualised analysis
Authors: Chen Pengfei , Luo Yu , Mou Junmin , Chen Linying , Li Mengxia
Published: May 2024

Maritime traffic risk is increasing rapidly with the growth of marine traffic volume and construction of marine facilities, water bridges, port development, marine wind farm, etc. Given this emerging trend, this paper presents a bibliometric analysis and mapping of the broad academic literature related to maritime traffic safety, focusing on the influences of international collaborations and knowledge sources on the developments of this research domain. To identify trends, patterns and the knowledge distribution of the research on maritime traffic safety, the visualisation of similarities (VOS) viewer software, the bibliometric analysis, and scientometric mapping of the literature have been performed from the perspectives of publication and citation distribution over time, leading authors, countries (regions), institutions, the corresponding collaboration networks, most cited publications and references, focused research fields and topics, research trend evolution over time, etc. The paper provides a comprehensive and quantitative overview and significant picture representation of the domain's leading and evolutionary trends by employing specific aforementioned bibliometric analysis factors. In addition, by reviewing the evolutionary trends of the journals and the proposed investigated factors, such as the influential works, main research topics, and the research frontiers, this paper reveals the scientific literature's main research objectives and directions that could be addressed and explored in future studies.
Is the working capital channel of the monetary policy quantitatively relevant? A structural estimation approach
Authors: Galindo Gil Hamilton
Published: May 2024

Is the working capital channel big, and does it vary across industries? To answer this question, I estimate a dynamic stochastic macro-finance model using firm-level data. In aggregate, I find a partial channel —about three-fourths of firms’ labor bill are borrowed. However, the strength of this channel varies across industries, reaching as low as one-half for retail firms and as high as one for agriculture and construction. This provides evidence that monetary policy could have varying effects across industries through the working capital channel.
Homelessness Transitions, Risks, and Prevention Across the Life Course
Authors: Bairéad Clíodhna , Norris Michelle
Published: May 2024

Despite significant evidence that age is an important factor in homelessness, life course considerations have not been systematically incorporated into the most influential theories of the factors that heighten the risk of becoming homeless. To address this oversight, this article examines variations in the risk of transitioning into homelessness among single adults in Dublin, Ireland. Consideration is given to how these transitions are shaped by the interaction between life course stage and changing personal circumstances, experiences, and relationships. It reveals that while some triggers of homeless, such as leaving institutional or private rented accommodation, are common experiences among all age groups, younger and older adults both experience distinct patterns of transition into homelessness. This understanding can help to strengthen the traditionally weak evidence base for homelessness prevention strategies, and in particular inform the design of targeted measures, that address the specific homelessness risks faced by some age groups.
Report on ‘Better arguments in Scottish classrooms’
Authors: O'Reilly Mary
Published: May 2024

This report describes a new project, ‘Better Arguments’, which seeks to teach learners in Scottish secondary schools about what constitutes a good argument, how to identify a bad argument and how to build their own ‘better’ arguments. The unit of lessons uses extracts from Cicero's Pro Caelio as a means of modelling both good and bad arguments, with the aim of equipping learners with a framework by which they can analyse and evaluate not only Cicero's arguments but arguments generally. By way of background, the report explains the current provision of Classics teaching within Scotland and the challenges facing those who are working to reinstate Latin and Classical Studies, particularly at National Qualification level. In this context, the ‘Better Arguments’ project is one strategy to increase the Classics provision in state schools. The report explains the rationale behind the design and content of the unit and then goes on to highlight the benefits of teaching this unit, especially the educational, cultural and social gains to be made. It identifies some of the potential challenges to the implementation of these lessons and offers some solutions to them. Finally, it considers the ways in which this project might be viewed as a starting point, with suggestions as to how the skills developed here might be further built upon through the use of other classical texts in future units of work.
Magnetization of Ferromanganese Crusts: Geochemical and Magnetic Insights From Rio Grande Rise and Tropic Seamount
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Bin , Koschinsky Andrea , da Silva Gabriel Lucas Xavier , Dantas Rafaela Cardoso , Kuhn Thomas , Millo Christian , Kletetschka Gunther , Jovane Luigi
Published: May 2024

Ferromanganese (FeMn) crusts are Fe and Mn oxides that typically form on deep‐sea elevations by deposition of colloids from seawater. These mineral deposits are considered a source of critical metals and rare earth elements. Besides their potential economic value, FeMn crusts are extremely relevant in ocean science, since their very slow growth rates result in long‐term paleoenvironmental and paleoceanographic records. In this study, we applied geochemical, mineralogical, and magnetic analyses to unravel paleoenvironmental changes at two locations on opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean, the Rio Grande Rise in the SW Atlantic and the Tropic Seamount in the NE Atlantic. Our results show that the occurrence of amorphous (non‐crystalline) Fe oxyhydroxides and the absence of Fe oxides in hydrogenetic, non‐phosphatized FeMn crusts prevented the development of primary remanent magnetization. In contrast, phosphatized FeMn crusts may have contained a remanent magnetic signal. Phosphatization resulted from increased primary productivity and occurred at different stages during the growth of the FeMn crusts, leading to suboxic conditions and partial dissolution of pre‐existing, remanence‐carrying magnetic minerals. Carbonate Fluorapatite (CFA) accumulation in the phosphatized layers of FeMn crusts replaced Fe and Mn, decreasing their magnetic content. Thus, magnetic variations do not reflect a primary magnetization but rather result from geochemical alterations. The loss of primary magnetization may hamper the use of FeMn deposits for magnetostratigraphic purposes.
Unsteady Circulation in a Glacial Fjord: A Multiyear Modeling Study of Milne Fiord
Authors: Bonneau Jérémie , Laval Bernard E. , Mueller Derek , Hamilton Andrew K. , Forrest Alexander L.
Published: May 2024

The exchange of heat and freshwater between glaciers and the ocean is dictated by the circulation in glacial fjords and ice shelf cavities. Therefore, our ability to estimate and predict these fluxes depends on our understanding of the circulation mechanisms inside these polar estuaries. Here, we use an exceptionally long observational data set (8+ years) to develop and validate a high‐resolution realistic numerical model of Milne Fiord (Nunavut, Canada), a glacial fjord with an ice shelf at its mouth. Model results show the circulation inside Milne Fiord from 2011 to 2019 is highly three‐dimensional and unsteady. Three distinct circulation modes are identified (eddy, front, barotropic). The shifts between circulation modes are driven by density variations in the offshore coastal current, which restrict vertical stretching, allowing (or not) the coastal current to develop sufficient relative vorticity to enter the fjord. The unsteadiness of the system results in an overturning estuarine circulation with mean velocities ∼50 times smaller than the instantaneous field. Moreover, analysis of the model outputs suggest that at least 2 years of simulation are needed to yield reliable average heat flux estimates in this environment. This work highlights the value of combining long term (>1 year) observations with numerical modeling. This allowed us to uncover the spatial and temporal variability of the system, which impacts how heat and freshwater fluxes can be reliably estimated.
Switching From Subduction Zone Advance to Retreat Explains the Late Paleozoic Evolution of the East Junggar System, Central Asian Orogenic Belt
Authors: Miao Yazhou , Zhang Jian , Schulmann Karel , Guy Alexandra , Soejono Igor , Jiang Yingde , Sun Min , Zhang Shuhui , Li Zhiyong
Published: May 2024

The geodynamic evolution of the East Junggar is examined by means of satellite imaging and field‐based structural studies, U‐Pb zircon geochronology and analysis of potential field geophysical data in the Yemaquan arc and the Dulate back‐arc systems. The northern Yemaquan arc shows a pervasive WNW–ESE steep S1 foliation that is related to the exhumation of Armantai ophiolitic mélange in an F1 antiformal structure. The bedding of the Dulate sequences is folded by N–S‐trending F1 upright folds that are preserved in low strain domains. The timing of D1 is estimated between 310 and 280 Ma. During D2, previously folded Dulate sequences were orthogonally refolded by E–W‐trending F2 upright folds, resulting in Type‐1 basin and dome interference pattern and pervasive E–W trending S2 cleavage zones. The age of D2 is constrained to be 270–250 Ma based on the dating of syn‐tectonic pegmatites and deposition of syn‐orogenic sedimentary rocks. The boundary between the Yemaquan arc and Dulate back‐arc basin experienced reactivation through D2 dextral transpressive shear zones. The D1 fabrics are the consequence of the closure of the Dulate back‐arc basin due to the advancing mode of Kalamaili subduction. Almost orthogonal Permian D2 fabrics were generated by the N–S shortening of the East Junggar and the northward movement of the Junggar Block indenter. This D2 deformation was associated with the anticlockwise rotation of the southern limb of the Mongolian Orocline, the scissor‐like closure of the northerly Mongol‐Okhotsk Ocean and the collision of the Mongolian and the Tarim–North China craton collages.
Bio-synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles from Trichoderma species against cassava root rot disease
Authors: Thepbandit Wannaporn , Papathoti Narendra Kumar , Hoang Nguyen Huy , Siriwong Supatcharee , Sangpueak Rungthip , Saengchan Chanon , Laemchiab Kansinee , Kiddeejing Dusadee , Tonpho Kodchaphon , Buensanteai Kumrai
Published: May 2024

Cassava root rot disease caused by the fungal pathogens Fusarium solani and Lasiodiplodia theobromae produces severe damages on cassava production. This research was conducted to produce and assess silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized by Trichoderma harzianum for reducing root rot disease. The results revealed that using the supernatants of T. harzianum on a silver nitrate solution changed it to reddish color at 48 h, indicating the formation of AgNPs. Further characterization was identified using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). DLS supported that the Z-average size is at 39.79 nm and the mean zeta potential is at − 36.5 mV. SEM revealed the formation of monodispersed spherical shape with a diameter between 60–75 nm. The antibacterial action of AgNPs as an antifungal agent was demonstrated by an observed decrease in the size of the fungal colonies using an increasing concentration of AgNPs until the complete inhibition growth of L. theobromae and F. solani at > 58 µg mL−1 and at ≥ 50 µg mL−1, respectively. At in vitro conditions, the applied AgNPs caused a decrease in the percentage of healthy aerial hyphae of L. theobromae (32.5%) and of F. solani (70.0%) compared to control (100%). The SR-FTIR spectra showed the highest peaks in the first region (3000–2800 cm−1) associated with lipids and fatty acids located at 2962, 2927, and 2854 cm−1 in the AgNPs treated samples. The second region (1700–1450 cm−1) consisting of proteins and peptides revealed the highest peaks at 1658, 1641, and 1548 cm−1 in the AgNPs treated samples. The third region (1300–900 cm−1), which involves nucleic acid, phospholipids, polysaccharides, and carbohydrates, revealed the highest peaks at 1155, 1079, and 1027 cm−1 in the readings from the untreated samples. Finally, the observed root rot severity on cassava roots treated with AgNPs (1.75 ± 0.50) was significantly lower than the control samples (5.00 ± 0.00).
Lacrimal gland Alterations and the Effect of artesunate on experimental induced diabetes rat models and related mechanisms
Authors: Rajbanshi Girju , Li Wei , Nong Xiaolin , Li Yi , Nong Dongxiao
Published: May 2024

Diabetic patients are at high risk of developing lacrimal gland dysfunction, and the antimalarial drug artesunate (ART) was recently used to induce experimental-induced diabetes mellitus. This study’s objective is to investigate the lacrimal gland alteration and the effect of ART on experimentally induced diabetes rat models and its related mechanisms. Forty rats were divided into five groups (8 rats/group): healthy control group (HC), diabetic group (DM), 50 mg/kg ART intervention diabetic group [DM + ART (50 mg/kg)], 100 mg/kg ART intervention diabetic group [DM + ART (100 mg/kg)] and 6 U/kg Insulin intervention diabetic group (DM + INS). The morphology of the eyeball and lacrimal gland tissues was determined using hematoxylin and eosin staining. In addition, external lacrimal glands were harvested for electronic microscopic examination, NFκB1, and TNF-α protein expression evaluation by immunohistochemistry and mRNA expression analysis by RT-PCR. Histopathological and ultrastructural changes suggest ART intervention has an improved structural effect. Protein expression of NFκB1 in the DM + ART (100 mg/kg) group was decreased. TNF-α significantly decreased in the DM + ART (50 mg/kg) and insulin groups. We concluded that ART improves structural changes in a lacrimal gland in diabetic rats. The present study provides further evidence of the therapeutic effect of ART on the lacrimal gland of diabetic rats by decreasing the expression of NFκB1 and TNF-α.