bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: A report from the multi‐international clinical trial AIEOP‐BFM ALL 2009
Authors: Barnbrock Anke , Möricke Anja , Barbaric Draga , Jones Neil , Koenig Christa , Moser Reinhard , Rohde Marius , Salvador Christina , Alten Julia , Elitzur Sarah , Groll Andreas H. , Lehrnbecher Thomas
Published: March 2024

Pneumocystis jirovecii can cause life‐threatening pneumonia (PjP), and patients with haematological malignancies are at high risk of this infection. Prophylactic measures have significantly decreased morbidity and mortality, but there is a paucity of contemporary data on the incidence and clinical course of PjP in well‐defined and homogenous patient populations, such as children suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). In the multi‐international trial AIEOP‐BFM ALL2009, PjP was diagnosed in six children (incidence 1/1000) and was associated with insufficient prophylaxis in five of them. Although none of the patients died of PjP, the long‐term impact of the infection is unclear.
Nectar robbing effects on pollinators of a key nectar source plant (Tecoma fulva, Bignoniaceae) in a dry tropical Andean valley
Authors: Maidana‐Tuco Yamil N. , Larrea‐Alcázar Daniel M. , Pacheco Luis F.
Published: March 2024

Zoophilous flowering plants have features to attract their pollinators, which may also be used by exploiters like nectar robbers. Nectar robbers access nectar by probing flower corollas (primary robbing) or use existing holes (secondary robbing). Nectar robbing can negatively impact a plant's fitness directly by damaging the reproductive structures of the flower or indirectly by modifying the visitation patterns of pollinators. We tested the hypothesis that the robbed flowers are less visited by legitimate pollinators by comparing floral visitors and visitation frequency in primary‐, secondary‐, and un‐robbed flowers of Tecoma fulva spp. Altoandina, a native shrub species that is an important nectar source for nectarivores in the dry valleys of the Bolivian Andes (Bignoniaceae). The Giant Hummingbird, Patagona gigas (Trochilidae), was the main visitor of T. fulva and visited more frequently un‐robbed flowers, followed by secondary robbed and primary robbed flowers. The variation in visitation frequency may result in less pollen transport to robbed flowers, which may have negative consequences for the biological fitness, probably manifested in decreased seed production.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Difficulties in disclosing secondary findings by facilities performing comprehensive germline genetic testing for rare diseases in Japan
Authors: Hiromoto Kana , Yamada Takahiro , Tsuchiya Mio , Kawame Hiroshi , Nanba Eiji , Goto Yuichi , Kosugi Shinji
Published: March 2024

In Japan, a limited number of laboratories perform comprehensive genetic testing for rare diseases; this study investigated the attitudes of these laboratories toward the disclosure of secondary finding (SF). Following a preliminary survey, we identified laboratories conducting comprehensive genetic testing for participation. Subsequently, an online survey involving 20 selected facilities was conducted. The response rate was 80% (16/20). Of the 14 facilities, 71.4% had SFs. While 42.9% of them had a policy to disclose SFs with clinical utility, only 14.3% actively searched for actionable variants that could be included in the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics list. Japan was less enthusiastic than the USA regarding SF disclosure. With regard to the reasons for not disclosing SFs, the factors “the thought that participants may have a low desire for SFs” and “uncertainty regarding their wish” were considered more important than in the USA. A content analysis of what was sought as a solution to this difficulty revealed a need to improve databases on pathogenicity and actionability and collect public thoughts on the issue. The factor “to promote entry in research” was not considered a critical reason for disclosing SFs, indicating that the thirst for information was not possibly due to anxiety but rather due to scientific interest. Japanese medical professionals may not be confident that society requires the disclosure of SFs. To improve the environment, it is necessary to survey the public regarding their thoughts on SF disclosure and discuss this issue in society.
Role of dendritic cells in spinal cord injury
Authors: Han Xiaonan , Zhang Mingkang , Yan Liyan , Fu Yikun , Kou Hongwei , Shang Chunfeng , Wang Junmin , Liu Hongjian , Jiang Chao , Wang Jian , Cheng Tian
Published: March 2024

Background

Inflammation can worsen spinal cord injury (SCI), with dendritic cells (DCs) playing a crucial role in the inflammatory response. They mediate T lymphocyte differentiation, activate microglia, and release cytokines like NT‐3. Moreover, DCs can promote neural stem cell survival and guide them toward neuron differentiation, positively impacting SCI outcomes.

Objective

This review aims to summarize the role of DCs in SCI‐related inflammation and identify potential therapeutic targets for treating SCI.

Methods

Literature in PubMed and Web of Science was reviewed using critical terms related to DCs and SCI.

Results

The study indicates that DCs can activate microglia and astrocytes, promote T‐cell differentiation, increase neurotrophin release at the injury site, and subsequently reduce secondary brain injury and enhance functional recovery in the spinal cord.

Conclusions

This review highlights the repair mechanisms of DCs and their potential therapeutic potential for SCI.
Value of rapid on‐site evaluation combined with interventional pulmonology techniques in the diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis
Authors: Cao Jiaqi , Zhou Rong , He Qian , Zhang Ming , Feng Chunlai
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic value of rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) combined with computed tomography‐guided percutaneous needle biopsy (CT‐PNB) or radial endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial lung biopsy (EBUS‐TBLB) for pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC).

Methods

Clinical data of 33 patients diagnosed with PC at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between February 2018 and June 2023 were retrospectively analysed. Patients were divided into the CT‐PNB and EBUS‐TBLB groups based on the intervention method, and the diagnostic positivity rate and incidence of complications were compared between the two groups.

Results

Compared with the final diagnosis, the positive diagnostic rates of ROSE, histopathology and serum CrAg of all patients were 81.8% (27/33), 72.7% (24/33) and 63.6% (21/33), respectively. The average turnaround times of the three methods were 0.1 (0.1–0.2) h, 96.0 (48.0–120.0) h and 7.8 (4.5–13.6) h, respectively (P < 0.001). The coincidence rate between histopathology and ROSE was 84.8% with a kappa value of 0.574. The positive diagnostic rate for PC was significantly higher in the CT‐PNB group than in the EBUS‐TBLB group (92.9% vs. 57.9%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Combined with the ROSE results, the positive diagnostic rate in the EBUS‐TBLB group increased to 84.2% (16/19).

Conclusion

ROSE has commendable accuracy and timeliness, and CT‐PNB offers further advantages in this regard. ROSE enhances the diagnostic efficiency of EBUS‐TBLB for PC and is safe and effective.
Comparison of estimated glomerular filtration rate change with sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors versus glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists among people with diabetes: A propensity‐score matching study
Authors: Suzuki Yuta , Kaneko Hidehiro , Nagasawa Hajime , Okada Akira , Fujiu Katsuhito , Jo Taisuke , Takeda Norifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Nishiyama Akira , Gohda Tomohito , Suzuki Yusuke , Node Koichi , Yasunaga Hideo , Nangaku Masaomi , Komuro Issei
Published: March 2024

Aim

To compare the risk of developing kidney outcomes with use of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) versus use of sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors among individuals with diabetes.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we analysed 12 338 individuals with diabetes who newly initiated SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP‐1RAs using data from the JMDC claims database. The primary outcome was change in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), estimated using a linear mixed‐effects model. A 1:4 propensity‐score‐matching algorithm was used to compare the changes in eGFR between GLP‐1RA and SGLT2 inhibitor users.

Results

After propensity‐score matching, 2549 individuals (median [range] age 52 [46–58] years, 80.6% men) were analysed (510 GLP‐1RA new users and 2039 SGLT2 inhibitor new users). SGLT2 inhibitor use was associated with a slower eGFR decline when compared with GLP‐1RA use (−1.41 [95% confidence interval −1.63 to −1.19] mL/min/1.73 m2 vs. −2.62 [95% confidence interval −3.15 to −2.10] mL/min/1.73 m2).

Conclusions

Our analysis demonstrates the potential advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors over GLP‐1RAs in terms of kidney outcomes in individuals with diabetes.
Effects of free maternal healthcare on stunting in children under five years of age: Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Bigool Mark
Published: March 2024

Motivation

Addressing stunting in early childhood can have lasting effects on an individual's health, productivity, and well‐being in adulthood. By understanding the relationship between maternal healthcare policies and stunting, policy‐makers can design interventions that contribute to a healthier and more productive society.

Purpose

This study investigated the effect of providing free healthcare to pregnant mothers on child stunting.

Approach and method

The article uses doubly robust difference‐in‐difference estimator, drawing on Ghana Demographic and Health Survey.

Findings

Free healthcare to mothers reduced stunting in the treatment regions by 12.3%. Evidence suggests the reform may have influenced children under the age of five through antenatal and delivery care attendance during pregnancy. Assistance during antenatal care and childbirth by health professionals improved significantly.

Policy implications

Maternal health investment yields great health benefits for children from in utero to their fifth birthday. Maternal fee exemptions should be continued to maintain and further improve stunting reduction in children. Government should prioritize improving access to quality maternal healthcare services, including antenatal and skilled birth attendance and emergency obstetric care.
The Pedagogy of “As If”
Authors: Dahlbeck Johan
Published: March 2024

In this paper Johan Dahlbeck sets out to propose a pedagogy of “as if,” seeking to address the educational paradox of how students can be influenced to approximate a life guided by reason without assuming that they are already sufficiently rational to adhere to dictates of practical reason. He does so by outlining a fictionalist account, drawing primarily on Hans Vaihinger's systematic treatment of heuristic fictions and on Spinoza's ideas about how passive affects can be made to strengthen reason. Dahlbeck suggests that such an account can help us overcome the problem of assuming that reason needs to be enlisted as an instrument in the educational endeavor to live according to the guidance of reason. The reason this is so is that fictions can use passive affects that are prosocial and that thereby strengthen the sense of community necessary for laying a cooperative foundation for successful joint striving. Dahlbeck suggests further that exemplary teachers are crucial to this endeavor insofar as they can offer educational fictions as imaginative and temporary placeholders for the truth, allowing students to act “as if” they were already guided by reason.
Identification of soil‐related professional profiles for the future from a survey of European stakeholders
Authors: Walter Christian , Veenstra Jennifer , Melot Romain , Coquet Yves
Published: March 2024

Current and future stakeholders and decision‐makers involved in agricultural soil management need to develop soil‐related skills to meet the challenges of food security and global change in the coming decades. The aim of this study was to identify professional profiles related to the management, conservation and restoration of agricultural soils on the basis of a European stakeholder survey and to relate these profiles to specific and generic skills. Stakeholders from 24 European countries, selected by the national hubs of the European Joint Programme on agricultural soil management, were invited to propose soil‐related professional profiles that they considered important to develop over the next 20 years. They were then asked to identify up to 15 specific or generic skills that they considered necessary for each profile. In total, 299 stakeholders proposed 1–3 professional profiles each, in 20 languages, for a total of 786 profiles ranging from the bachelor to doctoral level. After translation into English and grouping by expertise, 60 profiles were identified and classified as ‘traditional’, ‘specialised’ or ‘innovative’. Innovative profiles were related to the inclusion of soil in fields that do not currently provide soil‐related education (e.g., communication, mediation, economics, law, land‐use planning, architecture, data science). Correspondence analysis based on the number of times a skill was considered necessary for a given profile led to the grouping of the 60 initial profiles into 10 clusters of profiles that required similar skills: these 10 clusters of profiles were described, and their necessary skills were identified. The clusters illustrate the need to broaden the scope of soil science and the variety of professions that can address soil‐related issues and require knowledge about soils. Ultimately, this list of soil‐related professional profiles and their necessary skills could help revise existing higher‐education curricula or create new curricula.
First record of the glasshouse leafhopper, Hauptidia maroccana (Melichar, 1907) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), from Jordan
Authors: Katbeh‐Bader Ahmad , Al‐Jboory Ibrahim
Published: March 2024

The glasshouse leafhopper, Hauptidia maroccana (Melichar, 1907), is recorded for the first time in Jordan. It was found infesting basil, tomato, pepper, peppermint, celery and parsley plants in ‘Ammān in October 2023. Adult genitalia slide mounts were prepared and voucher specimens were preserved at the University of Jordan Insects Museum. Original images for nymph, adult male and female genitalia, and distribution data, are provided.
Data‐driven allocation of renewables quota among regional power industries under the policy of renewable electricity standard
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Xu Chengzhen , Pan Yinghao , Li Xingchen , Zhu Qingyuan
Published: March 2024

China is struggling to facilitate the application of renewable portfolio standards to realize sustainable economic growth. As such, improving the current distribution mechanism is crucial. In this paper, the context‐dependent data envelopment analysis and multi‐objective linear programming are combined to allocate the renewables quota for each province. This integrated approach can maximize total electricity generation while minimizing the total CO2 emission with considering the disparity of production technology level. Then, the extended Gini coefficient is employed to assess the fairness of new quota mechanism. We find that (1) the eastern region is the most efficient during the power generation process. During 2016–2019, the efficiency in the western region presents an upward trend. (2) The allocation results indicate that Inner Mongolia and Qinghai have the greatest pressure to absorb renewable energy electricity, while Guangdong and Guizhou can instead reduce the most. Shandong and Inner Mongolia face the greatest burden in conserving non‐renewable electricity. (3) Compared to 2020, the newly allocated scheme can mitigate inequality, with the Gini coefficient changing from 0.264 in 2020 to 0.248 after the allocation. Meanwhile, the reallocation reduces the Gini coefficient related to renewable electricity, non‐renewable electricity, and CO2 emissions by 0.003, 0.028, and 0.073, respectively at the 2020 level.
Positioning possibilities for human geographies of the sea: Automatic Identification Systems and its role in spatialising understandings of shipping
Authors: Müller Ole J. , Peters Kimberley
Published: March 2024

This paper positions possibilities for human geographies of the sea. The growing volume of work under this banner has been largely qualitative in its approach, reflecting, in turn, the questions posed by oceanic scholars. These questions necessitate corresponding methods. Whilst this is not necessarily a problem, and the current corpus of work has offered many significant contributions, in making sense of the human dimensions of maritime worlds, other questions—and methods—may generate knowledge that is useful within this remit of work. This paper considers the place of quantitative approaches in posing lines of enquiry about shipping, one of the prominent areas of concern under the banner of ‘human geographies of the seas’. There is longstanding work in transport geographies concerned with shipping, logistics, freight movement and global connections, which embraces quantitative methods which could be bridged to ask fresh questions about oceanic spatial phenomena past and present. This paper reviews the state of the art of human geographies of the sea and transport geographies and navigates how the former field may be stimulated by some of the interests of the latter and a broader range of questions about society‐sea‐space relations. The paper focuses on Automatic Identification Systems (or AIS) as a potentially useful tool for connecting debates, and deepening spatial understandings of the seas and shipping beyond current scholarship. To advance the argument the example of shipping layups is used to illustrate or rather, position, the point.
Mixed ensiling of drought‐impaired grass with agro‐industrial by‐products and silage additives improves the nutritive value and shapes the microbial community of silages
Authors: Gruber Theresa , Fliegerová Katerina , Terler Georg , Resch Reinhard , Zebeli Qendrim , Hartinger Thomas
Published: March 2024

Droughts lead to reduced biomass production and unfavourable nutrient composition in grassland. As an alleviation, yet unexploited strategy, mixed ensiling of grass with agro‐industrial by‐products may improve the ensilability and nutritive value of drought‐impaired grassland. This study investigated first whether mixed ensiling of drought‐impaired grass with either sugar beet pulp (SBP), wheat gluten feed (WGF) or brewers' grains (BG) has a beneficial impact on chemical composition, fermentation characteristics, in vitro gas production (GP) and physically effective neutral detergent fibre (peNDF) of silages. Secondly, it was tested whether the application of anaerobic fungi culture supernatant (AF), mixed ruminal fluid (RF) or lactic acid bacteria (LAB) provides further advantages. Additionally, the microbial community composition was evaluated in selected silages. All silages showed satisfying conservation characteristics with high lactic acid levels and low dry matter losses, and peNDF values typically found for conserved forages. Mixed ensiling with BG substantially increased the crude protein concentration, whereas SBP increased the total degradability and WGF enhanced both. The further addition of fresh AF resulted in the overall highest lactic acid levels, especially in SBP‐based silages, but without changes in in vitro GP. The in vitro GP was higher with RF, particularly in mixed silages, suggesting an improved degradability. The LAB‐treated silages showed lower pH compared to controls, but had no impact on in vitro GP kinetics. Concluding, mixed ensiling holds potential to produce high‐quality silages from drought‐impaired grassland. The further addition of silage additives can be useful for certain substrates, but appeared not mandatory.
The physicochemical and in vitro digestion characteristics of Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight starch‐tea polyphenols non‐inclusive complex
Authors: Xiao Qiao , Wan Bin , Ying Ruifeng , Nasiru Mustapha Muhammad , Masisi Kabo , Li Chunyang , Huang Meigui
Published: March 2024

The effect of tea polyphenols (TP) on the physicochemical, structural and digestive properties of Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight starch (C. auriculatum starch) was studied. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that a looser and more porous structure was observed in C. auriculatum starch‐TP. Rheological results revealed that G′ and G″ of C. auriculatum starch were decreased with TP addition. X‐ray diffraction pattern showed TP could inhibit the relative crystallinity structure of C. auriculatum starch, thereby delaying the retrogradation of starch. Fourier‐transform infrared analysis confirmed that TP and C. auriculatum starch molecules formed non‐inclusive complexes through hydrogen bonding interaction. Moreover, TP could reduce the digestibility of the gelatinised C. auriculatum starch. These findings provide a theoretical information on C. auriculatum starch as a functional ingredient for regulating the postprandial glycemic response of starchy foods.
The role of intent to harm in workplace aggression
Authors: Shewach Oren R. , Sackett Paul R.
Published: March 2024

Conceptualizations of workplace aggression converge in treating intent to harm others as a necessary feature of aggression. However, inspection of workplace aggression scales suggests that many items do not specify intent to harm. In a series of three studies, we examined the effect of inclusion of intent to harm on workplace aggression's psychometric properties. Study 1 found that existing workplace aggression scales do not consistently specify or imply intent to harm. Study 2 found that inclusion of intent to harm has substantial implications for aggression's occurrence rate. Prior research that does not assess intent to harm overestimates the frequency of aggression. Study 3A found that workplace aggression's correlations with external variables were also overestimated when failing to include intent to harm. We found that aggression measured without specifying intent is highly correlated with counterproductive work behavior (CWB), whereas aggression measured with intent specified is empirically distinguished from CWB. In Study 3A, a construct‐valid workplace aggression scale was created, called the Intentional Workplace Aggression Scale (IWAS). Study 3B showed that the IWAS displayed relationships with affective constructs, such as trait anger and emotional stability, as well as with situational variables, such as job satisfaction and organizational justice perceptions.
Unmasking the unexpected: Testicular tumour uncovered as a result of scrotal trauma
Authors: Yilmaz Ahmet Burak , Yildiz Ali Kaan , Sungu Nuran , Keseroglu Bugra Bilge
Published: March 2024

We present a case of a 17‐year‐old male with a testicular tumour diagnosed after trauma. A 17‐year‐old male patient came to our clinic with swelling in the right hemiscrotum. The patient had a history of right scrotal blunt trauma 3 weeks before the admission and had no history of urological surgery or chronic disease. The patient doesn't use tobacco, alcohol, or illicit drugs. Genitourinary system examination revealed swelling and tenderness on palpation in the right hemiscrotum. The right testicle was not palpable. The left hemiscrotum was normal. The left testicle had a normal size and shape. Testicular tumour markers were high (AFP:196 μg/L (N: 0–8 μg/L), b‐HCG: 916 mIU/mL (N: <10 mIU/mL), LDH: 364 U/L (N: 0–265 U/L). Scrotal ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed that there were areas of 9 × 9 × 11 cm in size of the right scrotal region without viable testis tissue, hematoma area, and areas compatible with necrosis. These findings were related to intratesticular rupture due to trauma. Abdominal tomography revealed lymphadenopathies of approximately 6 × 3 cm in the anterior paracaval area and approximately 4 × 3 cm in the anterior aspect of the psoas muscle. We performed right radical inguinal orchiectomy on the patient. Testicular tumour markers were still high on the 8th postoperative day (AFP:120 μg/L (N: 0–8 μg/L), bHCG: 680 mIU/mL (N: <10 mIU/mL), LDH: 200 U/L (N: 0–265 U/L)). The testicular tumour was diagnosed as mixed germ cell tumour (50% Yolk Sac, 30% Embryonal Carcinoma, 20% Teratoma). The tumour diameter was 9 cm, surgical margins were intact, there was rete testis invasion, and no tumour was detected in the tunica vaginalis. No tumour invasion was seen in the soft tissue around the spermatic cord (pT2). The patient received 3 cycles of chemotherapy with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin. We suggest that patients presenting with scrotal trauma should be carefully evaluated for testicular malignancy, and if malignancy is suspected, radical inguinal orchiectomy should be preferred for the operation.
Impacts of enhanced recovery after surgery nursing interventions on wound infection and complications following bladder cancer surgery: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Fan , Nie Jin , Xiao Fan , Liu Juan
Published: March 2024

A meta‐analysis was executed to comprehensively examine the impacts of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) care interventions on complications and wound infections following bladder cancer (BCa) surgery. Computer searches were carried out in Embase, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Wanfang and CNKI, from their inception to November 2023, for RCTs regarding perioperative ERAS nursing interventions in patients with BCa. Two independent researchers performed literature screening, extracted data and carried out quality evaluations. Stata 17.0 software was utilized for the analysis of the data. Ultimately, 16 RCTs, involving 1190 patients, were included. The analysis showed that, in comparison with conventional nursing methods, perioperative ERAS nursing application in patients with BCa remarkably decreased the occurrence of wound infections (OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.16–0.59) and complications (OR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.13–0.28). Our study indicates that perioperative care based on the ERAS concept remarkably decreased the occurrence of wound infections and complications following BCa surgery, demonstrating notable nursing efficacy and meriting widespread clinical promotion.
Complications and psychological impact of pressure ulcers on patients and caregivers
Authors: Qian Li , Yan Song , Ting Shen Ting , Han Zhang Meng , Qi Tian
Published: March 2024

Pressure ulcers are persistent skin lesions that have substantial detrimental effects on the physical well‐being of patients. Moreover, their psychological ramifications for both patients and their caregivers are becoming more widely acknowledged. This research was conducted to examine the psychological ramifications of pressure ulcers and ascertain efficacious approaches to mitigate these effects and improve overall well‐being. A cross‐sectional study was conducted from March 2022 to December 2023 across tertiary care centres located in Beijing. The cohort consisted of 431 participants, which included primary caregivers and patients who were diagnosed with pressure ulcers. The data were gathered through the utilization of structured questionnaires and semi‐structured interviews. These methods encompassed demographic details, clinical characteristics and validated scales that assessed psychological parameters, including quality of life, anxiety, stress and depression. The research exposed substantial psychological toll on both individuals receiving care and those providing care, with caregivers enduring diminished quality of life and elevated levels of anxiety, depression and stress (p < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was identified between the degree of psychological distress and severity of pressure ulcers (p < 0.05). Both location of the ulcer and duration of care were substantial contributors to the psychological burden (p < 0.05). In spite of the apparent necessity, a significant proportion of the participants refrained from obtaining psychological counselling. The results underscored the significant psychological ramifications of pressure ulcers for both individuals receiving care and the caregivers. As a result, comprehensive care strategies that incorporate psychological assistance into the prescribed treatment plan are imperative. This research highlighted the criticality of implementing all‐encompassing, interdisciplinary approaches to tackle the complex issues presented by pressure ulcers in an effort to enhance the general welfare of those influences.
Performance of seedlings and yield of soybean genotypes under soil compaction
Authors: Capobiango Nayara Pereira , Bessa Giulia Badotti , Peris Gabriel Cordeiro de Oliveira , da Silva Felipe Lopes , Dias Denise Cunha Fernandes dos Santos , Fernandes Raphael Bragança Alves , da Silva Martha Freire , da Silva Laércio Junio
Published: March 2024

The identification of soybean genotypes tolerant to soil compaction makes it possible to reduce productivity loss under stress conditions. Added to this, the prior selection of these genotypes will result in greater assertiveness in the positioning of cultivars in the field. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the susceptibility of soybean genotypes to compaction in greenhouse and field conditions; verify which characteristics of seedlings under high resistance to root penetration are correlated with crop production in compacted soil; and to validate the substrate mechanical impedance method for evaluating the susceptibility of plant genotypes to soil compaction. Seeds of 20 genotypes were sown in a substrate mechanical impedance system under controlled conditions. The characteristics evaluated were total root length, total root surface area, mean root diameter, total root volume, taproot length, shoot length, root dry matter and seedling shoot dry matter. In the field experiment, half of the planting area was compacted, constituting two treatments, soil with and without compaction. The percentage of seedling emergence, initial plant height, stem diameter, number of nodes, internode length, number of lateral branches, shoot dry matter, final plant height, absolute and relative growth rate, number of pods, weight of 100 seeds and grain yield. In addition, the number of days between soybean sowing until plant flowering and grain harvest was recorded according to genotype and soil compaction level. In a controlled environment, genotypes tolerant to soil compaction show greater plasticity of root characteristics and smaller alterations in the shoot of seedlings. In the field, these genotypes show smaller reductions in growth rate, height, number of pods and grain yield. The shoot dry matter and the root dry matter of soybean seedlings in a mechanical impedance system present a positive and negative correlation, respectively, with soybean yield in compacted soil, indicating that the genetically determined susceptibility to soil compaction stress was similar throughout ontogenesis. The substrate mechanical impedance system used to evaluate the performance of soybean seedlings under stress, facilitates the decision‐making in breeding programs focused on identifying genotypes expressing soil compaction tolerance.
Implementing a ward‐level intervention to improve nursing handover communication with a focus on bedside handover—A qualitative study
Authors: Chien Laura J. , Slade Diana , Goncharov Liza , Taylor Joanne , Dahm Maria R. , Brady Bernadette , McMahon Jake , Raine Suzanne Eggins , Thornton Anna
Published: March 2024

Aim

To improve the effectiveness of nursing clinical handover through a qualitative, tailored communication intervention.

Design

A multisite before and after intervention using qualitative ethnography combined with discourse analysis of nursing handover interactions.

Methods

We implemented a tailored ward‐based intervention to redesign nursing handover practice with co‐constructed recommendations for organisational and cultural change on seven wards across three affiliated metropolitan hospitals between February 2020 and November 2022. The intervention was informed by pre‐implementation interviews and focus groups with nursing, medical and allied health staff and patients (n = 151) and observed and/or audio‐recorded handover events (n = 233). Post‐intervention we conducted interviews and focus groups (n = 79) and observed and/or audio‐recorded handover events (n = 129) to qualitatively evaluate impact.

Results

Our translational approach resulted in substantial changes post‐intervention. Nurses conducted more shift‐to‐shift handovers at the bedside, with greater patient interaction and better structured and more comprehensive information transfer, supported by revised handover documentation. Redesigned group handovers were focused and efficient, communicating critical patient information.

Conclusion

Contextualised training combined with changes to ward‐level systemic factors impeding communication results in improved nursing handovers. Practice change requires strong executive leadership and project governance, combined with effective ward‐level leadership, collaboration and mentoring. The speed and degree of change post‐intervention demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary collaborative research between hospital executive, ward leadership and communication specialists.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Nurses are more likely to conduct efficient group handovers and informative, patient‐centred bedside handovers in line with policy when they understand the value of handover and have practical strategies to support communication. Communication training should be combined with broader ward‐level changes to handover practice tailored to the ward context. A multilevel approach results in more effective practice change.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the COREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

We interviewed patients on study wards pre and post intervention.
Ovarian surveillance including endometrial cytology for patients with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer before risk‐reducing salpingo‐oophorectomy: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Fusegi Atsushi , Nomura Hidetaka , Ueki Arisa , Abe Akiko , Kamata Mayumi , Misaka Satoki , Aoki Yoichi , Tanigawa Terumi , Yunokawa Mayu , Kanao Hiroyuki
Published: March 2024

Aim

Ovarian surveillance in women with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer who do not undergo risk‐reducing salpingo‐oophorectomy has been controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the clinical features of ovarian surveillance at our institution using a technique that combines serum cancer antigen 125 measurements, transvaginal ultrasonography, and uterine endometrial cytology.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 65 women, who had not undergone risk‐reducing salpingo‐oophorectomy diagnosed with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer between 2000 and 2021 at our hospital. Clinical information was obtained and analyzed through a chart review. The details of the treatment course were reviewed for patients who had developed ovarian cancer.

Results

Overall, 5 of the 65 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer based on abnormal findings during periodic surveillance. All patients who developed ovarian cancer were asymptomatic, even if the cancer was at an advanced stage. Two of the 65 patients had endometrial cytology abnormalities, both of whom had ovarian cancer. All patients who developed ovarian cancer underwent primary debulking surgery, and complete gross resection was achieved. None of the patients experienced ovarian cancer recurrence.

Conclusions

The ovarian surveillance strategy at our institution for women with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer who do not undergo risk‐reducing salpingo‐oophorectomy can identify asymptomatic ovarian cancer and contribute to achieving complete gross resection during primary surgery. Ovarian surveillance may contribute to a reduction in ovarian cancer mortality.
Illusions of textuality: The semiotics of literary memes in contemporary media
Authors: Lee Tong King
Published: March 2024

This article seeks to account for the phenomenon where cultural productions are able to transcend different chronotopes and masquerade in myriad forms while sustaining an illusion of itself as a text. Using the Barthian distinction between work and Text as its framework, the article argues that multimodal semiotics offers a theoretically viable perspective on the global circulation of cultural artifacts by way of the concepts of memes, distribution, resemiotization, and assemblage. The central argument is this: what we call a text in common parlance is in fact a node within a networked assemblage of individually constituted works loosely connected through a substrate recognizability of memes. Operating at the level of this network is the Barthian Text that is always in‐progress and can never really be completed. The article concludes by proposing that with the imminence of Web 5.0 and in light of the ever‐pervasive influence of artificial intelligence in cultural production, it is imperative that we adopt nonlinear thinking to understand the shifting semioscapes in digital space and their impact on contemporary textuality.
But life goes on: drama classes, Ukrainian refugees, and Icelandic language learning
Authors: Tavares Vander , Benediktsson Artëm Ingmar
Published: March 2024

This paper explores the relationship between additional language (L2) literacy development and drama plays based on the experiences of adult refugees from Ukraine in Iceland. This inquiry is guided by the following questions: What are the learners' experiences and perceptions of drama classes in relation to their literacy development in Icelandic as an L2? What role might engaging in drama classes have when it comes to learners' sense of well‐being? We employ a multiliteracies perspective, which has pluralised the traditional view of literacy and offered new insight into literacy teaching and learning by integrating multimodal, multi‐sensorial, and critical practices into literacy education. The findings originate from a qualitative, interview‐based study with five Ukrainian learners of a refugee background in Iceland. Findings suggest that learning Icelandic through drama afforded the learners an opportunity to learn Icelandic in creative, engaging, and meaningful ways. Furthermore, learning Icelandic through drama supported the enactment and development of essential capacities for personal and professional growth, such as open‐mindedness, tolerance, respect, and collaboration. Many of the learners felt positively challenged to try out something new. This paper concludes with a discussion on the importance of critical, experiential L2 education that acknowledges learners' diverse lived experiences.
An essential protease,FtsH, influences daptomycin resistance acquisition inEnterococcus faecalis
Authors: Nair Zeus Jaren , Gao Iris Hanxing , Firras Aslam , Chong Kelvin Kian Long , Hill Eric D. , Choo Pei Yi , Colomer‐Winter Cristina , Chen Qingyan , Manzano Caroline , Pethe Kevin , Kline Kimberly A.
Published: March 2024

Daptomycin is a last‐line antibiotic commonly used to treat vancomycin‐resistant Enterococci, but resistance evolves rapidly and further restricts already limited treatment options. While genetic determinants associated with clinical daptomycin resistance (DAPR) have been described, information on factors affecting the speed of DAPRacquisition is limited. The multiple peptide resistance factor (MprF), a phosphatidylglycerol‐modifying enzyme involved in cationic antimicrobial resistance, is linked to DAPRin pathogens such as methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus. SinceEnterococcus faecalisencodes two paralogs ofmprFand clinical DAPRmutations do not map tomprF, we hypothesized that functional redundancy between the paralogs preventsmprF‐mediated resistance and masks other evolutionary pathways to DAPR. Here, we performed in vitro evolution to DAPRinmprFmutant background. We discovered that the absence ofmprFresults in slowed DAPRevolution and is associated with inactivating mutations inftsH, resulting in the depletion of the chaperone repressor HrcA. We also report thatftsHis essential in the parental, but not in the ΔmprF, strain where FtsH depletion results in growth impairment in the parental strain, a phenotype associated with reduced extracellular acidification and reduced ability for metabolic reduction. This presents FtsH and HrcA as enticing targets for developing anti‐resistance strategies.
Different methods of 3D QRS area calculation from vectorcardiographic X, Y, and Z Leads
Authors: Noheria Amit , Toquica Christian , Mahmood Uzair A. , DeBauge Ashley , Morey Tucker , Harvey Christopher J.
Published: March 2024

3DQRSarea is a strong marker for cardiac resynchronization therapy and can be obtained by taking the (i) summation or the (ii) difference of the areas subtended by positive and negative deflections in X, Y, Z vectorcardiographic electrocardiogram (ECG) leads. We correlated both methods with the instantaneous‐absolute‐3D‐voltage‐time‐integral (VTIQRS‐3D). 3DQRSarea consistently underestimated the VTIQRS‐3D, but the summation method was a closer and more reliable approximation. The dissimilarity was less apparent in left bundle branch block (r2 summation .996 vs. difference .972) and biventricular paced ECGs (r2 .996 vs. .957) but was more apparent in normal ECGs (r2 .988 vs. .653).
Status of B‐Lymphocyte Subsets and Their Homing Markers in Patients With Post‐Kala‐AzarDermal Leishmaniasis
Authors: Sengupta Shilpa , Goswami Deep , Chakraborty Bidhan , Chaudhuri Surya Jyati , Ghosh Manab K. , Chatterjee Mitali
Published: March 2024

In visceral leishmaniasis, the Type II helper T cell predominance results in B cell modulation and enhancement of anti‐leishmanial IgG. However, information regarding its dermal sequel, post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL), remains limited. Accordingly, this study aimed to elucidate the B cell‐mediated antibody‐dependent/independent immune profiles of PKDL patients. In the peripheral blood of PKDL patients, immunophenotyping of B cell subsets was performed by flow cytometry and by immunohistochemistry at lesional sites. The functionality of B cells was assessed in terms of skin IgG by immunofluorescence, while the circulating levels of B cell chemoattractants (CCL20, CXCL13, CCL17, CCL22, CCL19, CCL27, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11) were evaluated by a multiplex assay. In patients with PKDL as compared with healthy controls, there was a significant decrease in pan CD19+B cells. However, within the CD19+B cell population, there was a significantly raised proportion of switched memory B cells (CD19+IgD−CD27+) and plasma cells (CD19+IgD−CD38+CD27+). This was corroborated at lesional sites where a higher expression of CD20+B cells and CD138+plasma cells was evident; they were Ki67 negative and demonstrated a raised IgG. The circulating levels of B cell chemoattractants were raised and correlated positively with lesional CD20+B cells. The increased levels of B cell homing markers possibly accounted for their enhanced presence at the lesional sites. There was a high proportion of plasma cells, which accounted for the increased presence of IgG that possibly facilitated parasite persistence and disease progression.
Do White House Chiefs of Staff “manage up”?
Authors: Beckmann Matthew N.
Published: March 2024

The White House Chief of Staff (COS) has become the modern presidency's organizational lynchpin, the position tasked with helping presidents “faithfully execute the Office of President.” Extending a rich literature about how chiefs manage White House staffers, we consider the other side of the coin: can a COS manage the president? We begin theoretically, sketching three mechanisms—offloading, streamlining, and steering—by which a COS could shape presidents' basic workways. We test resulting hypotheses against original data on presidents' daily work behaviors from John F. Kennedy to George W. Bush—a total spanning 48 years, nine presidencies, and 21 Chiefs of Staff (plus one sustained vacancy). Surprisingly, we find little evidence that Chiefs of Staff affected theduration,density, orcompositionof their president's workday. When it comes to the basic contours of presidential workways, it appears Chiefs of Staff do less “managing up” and more “managing around.”
Curcumin and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as bioactive food components with synergistic effects on Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Velasco‐Rodríguez Luz del C. , García Hugo S. , Rascón‐Díaz Martha P.
Published: March 2024

Curcumin and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω‐3 PUFA) are multifunctional compounds which play an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and little has been addressed about the role of these two compounds together in the progression of the disease. There is evidence of the beneficial effect of combined administration of ω‐3 PUFA and other dietary supplements such as vitamins and polyphenols in the prevention of AD, although much remains to be understood about their possible complementary or synergistic activity. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review the research focused on studying the effect and mechanisms of action of curcumin, ω‐3 PUFA, and the combination of these nutraceutical compounds, particularly on AD, and to integrate the possible ways in which these compounds can potentiate their effect. The most important pathophysiologies that manifest in AD will be addressed, in order to have a better understanding of the mechanisms of action through which these bioactive compounds exert a neuroprotective effect.
Knowing what you pay for: Does benefits information increase bond referenda support?
Authors: Ivonchyk Mikhail
Published: March 2024

This article examines the impact of including benefits information on voter support in school bond referenda. It proposes that benefits information can increase voter support and mitigate the negative impact of tax implications. The proposition is tested empirically through a survey experiment, using random assignment and a nationally representative sample. The findings provide causal evidence supporting the proposition, revealing a consistently positive effect of benefits information on voter support across diverse population groups, including homeowners, individuals without children, and supporters of private education. The effect weakens but remains significant even when tax implications are considered. These findings contribute to the existing literature on bond referenda and offer valuable insights for public policy makers aiming to enhance success rates in bond referenda.
Petrologic relationship between lamprophyres, carbonatites, and heavy rare‐earth element enriched breccias at Hicks Dome
Authors: Trela Jarek , Freiburg Jared T. , Gazel Esteban , Nuelle Laurence , Maria Anton H. , Malone David H. , Molinarolo John M.
Published: March 2024

New petrological, geochemical, and P–T modelling results from igneous samples clarify how carbonatite‐lamprophyre magmatism, fluorite and rare earth element (REE) enrichment are petrogenetically related in southern Illinois. P–T modelling reveals that igneous rocks derive from a deep mantle carbonated source, that is consistent with trace element signatures for a fluorine‐rich transition zone origin. Major element systematics suggests liquid‐immiscibility with lamprophyric melts as the origin for Ca‐carbonatites. Heavy REE (HREE) enrichments in Hicks Dome breccias likely formed through preferential partitioning and transport of HREE by brine‐melts, exsolved from a deep carbonatite body. Brine‐melts redistributed HREEs throughout the system along brecciated pathways where they reprecipitated as HREE‐rich phosphate/fluorcarbonate minerals (e.g. xenotime, florencite, synchesite) in host bedrock. The diversity of igneous rocks in southern Illinois highlights the area as an excellent natural laboratory to study carbonated melt petrogenesis and evolution.