bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the selectivity of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for cyclooxygenases using quantum crystallography and electrostatic interaction energy
Authors: Pawlędzio S. , Ziemniak M. , Wang X. , Woźniak K. , Malinska M.
Published: January 2025

Quantum crystallography methods have been employed to investigate complex formation between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, with particular focus on the COX-1 and COX-2 isoforms. This study analyzed the electrostatic interaction energies of selected NSAIDs (flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, meloxicam and celecoxib) with the active sites of COX-1 and COX-2, revealing significant differences in binding profiles. Flurbiprofen exhibited the strongest interactions with both COX-1 and COX-2, indicating its potent binding affinity. Celecoxib and meloxicam showed a preference for COX-2, consistent with their known selectivity for this isoform, while ibuprofen showed comparable interaction energies with both isoforms, reflecting its nonselective inhibition pattern. Key amino-acid residues, including Arg120, Arg/His513 and Tyr355, were identified as critical determinants of NSAID selectivity and binding affinity. The findings highlight the complex interplay between interaction energy and selectivity, suggesting that while electrostatic interactions play a fundamental role, additional factors such as enzyme dynamics and the hydrophobic effect also contribute to the therapeutic efficacy and safety profiles of NSAIDs. These insights provide valuable guidance for the rational design of NSAIDs with enhanced therapeutic benefits and minimized adverse effects.
Enhancing digital access to Kenya’s archival materials through virtual and augmented reality technologies
Authors: Musembe Carolyne Nyaboke , Kwanya Tom , Chweya Naftali
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Digital transformation through technology integration to support information access across sectors is a global trend. However, the Kenya National Archives and Documentation Service (KNADS) has made minimal progress. This study assesses KNADS’ readiness to adopt Virtual and Augmented Reality technologies and examines their vital characteristics and applications in archival management.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mixed-methods research approach, data were collected from 32 participants consisting of all KNADS top and middle management staff. Qualitative data were collected using interviews and analysed thematically, while quantitative data were collected through questionnaires and analysed using SPSS version 24.

Findings

KNADS collections are in physical formats. They are accessed and used physically. Similarly, KNADS does not have a comprehensive digital transformation strategy to integrate virtual and augmented reality technologies to guarantee continuity if physical access is disrupted.

Practical implications

KNADS should promote and provide the broadest possible accessibility of materials while respecting legal and ethical access restrictions, including public statutes, cultural protections, donor contracts and privacy requirements.

Originality/value

Although many studies have been conducted on technological adoption for archival access, the study explores this from a Global South perspective.
Role of electronic learning for continuing professional development of university librarians
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Khan Shakeel Ahmad , Javeed Asfa Muhammed Din , Iqbal Abid , Ahmad Shakil
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to know the perceptions of university librarians in Pakistan about the benefits of electronic learning for continuing professional development (CPD), to identify the motivating factors to engage librarians in electronic learning programmes for CPD and to investigate the challenges of adopting electronic learning faced by university librarians in Pakistan for CPD.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research method followed by a survey research design was applied to address the study’s objectives. Quantitative data was gathered from the target population through a questionnaire. The target population of the study was consisted of all library professionals working in the Higher Education Commission (HEC)-recognized public and private sector universities of Pakistan.

Findings

The findings of the study showed that respondents positively realized the benefits of electronic learning for CPD. According to the results, organizational support is a prominent motivational factor for librarians to attend electronic learning programmes and develop their professional skills. Findings revealed that lack of technical support is identified as the most prominent problem in the effective adoption of electronic learning technologies. Technical challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, poor networks, broadband access issues and low bandwidth, create obstacles for librarians in implementing electronic learning for their CPD.

Originality/value

This study is fruitful for library leadership to apply the emerging technologies to benefit from electronic learning for career development to deliver value-added services to the end users of university libraries.
Buckling analysis of orthotropic plates with various boundary conditions using a new hyperbolic shear displacement model: an analytical approach
Authors: Khalfi Yassine , Bouiadjra Bachir , Titah Mawloud
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper introduces a closed-form solution for analyzing the buckling behavior of orthotropic plates using a refined plate theory with four variable parameters, leveraging a new hyperbolic shear displacement model.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed theory incorporates a quadratic variation of transverse shear strains across the plate’s thickness and satisfies zero traction boundary conditions on both the upper and lower surfaces without employing shear correction factors. The governing equations are derived from the principle of minimum total potential energy. Closed-form solutions for rectangular plates, with two opposite edges simply supported and the remaining two edges subjected to arbitrary boundary conditions, are obtained using the state space approach to the Levy-type solution. Comparative studies are conducted to validate the accuracy of the obtained results.

Findings

The paper successfully examines and discusses in detail the effects of boundary conditions, loading conditions, variations in modulus ratio and thickness ratio on the critical buckling load of orthotropic plates.

Originality/value

This study presents a novel and precise method for evaluating the buckling behavior of orthotropic plates. The refined plate theory, without the need for shear correction factors, offers significant insights and improvements in understanding the critical buckling load under various conditions, contributing valuable knowledge to the field of structural analysis.
Accessibility and perceived effect of Sadaqah on student situational poverty during Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Busari Saheed Abdullahi , Adebiyi Jelili Adegboyega , Sitiris Miszairi
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Sadaqah, a form of Islamic charity, was widely used to mitigate the adverse consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on people’s socio-economic conditions and well-being. However, the extent to which Sadaqah served the intended purpose remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to explore the perceived effects of Sadaqah on the situational poverty and well-being of tertiary education students in Malaysia during the pandemic. The findings of this study could provide valuable insights into whether and how Sadaqah can address situational poverty and well-being challenges during COVID-19-type emergencies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study surveyed students at three Islamic universities in Malaysia. A total of 288 complete and valid responses were collected and analysed. The study used the Kruskal Wallis test to examine the relationship between students’ socioeconomic status and their odds of receiving Sadaqah. The chi-square test was used to estimate Sadaqah’s perceived effect on students’ well-being. The repeated measure analysis of variance was used to examine the effect of Sadaqah on the situational poverty and well-being of the respondents.

Findings

The pandemic starkly magnified the situational poverty of students from underprivileged backgrounds and the well-being struggles of those from high-income households. Many students reported pandemic-induced financial and physical well-being issues, including difficulties meeting medical and food expenses. This underscores the pressing need for comprehensive support. However, the Sadaqah received by the students did not cover essential expenses such as rent, tuition and medical bills. This lack of comprehensive support could be a critical factor in Sadaqah’s limited impact on addressing situational poverty and enhancing the well-being of the students.

Originality/value

This study revealed Sadaqah’s limitations in addressing situational poverty during COVID-19-type emergencies and identified promising avenues for improvement. The findings underscore the need for a more comprehensive approach to Sadaqah, which could significantly enhance the well-being of its recipients. This insight could potentially inform policy and practice, inspiring hope for a more effective approach in the future.
Enhancing human capital for Industry 4.0: a case of Indian manufacturing sector
Authors: Marlapudi Kiran , Lenka Usha
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The study aims to identify the essential competencies for Industry 4.0 within the manufacturing sector, to prioritise developing them among the workforce in creating a competitive advantage for the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methodology to prioritize competencies. Literature review and expert input guided the identification of competencies, which were ranked by experts for their relevance, through pairwise comparisons.

Findings

Seven competency groups, encompassing 21 sub-groups, were identified as essential for the Industry 4.0 workforce. Digital-technical and industry-specific competencies emerged as the most prominent to be developed on priority, followed by cognitive and business competencies. Despite their smaller representation, core/generic competencies remain the foundation for developing the newer and more specialised competencies.

Research limitations/implications

Recognising the need for empirical studies in early-adopting organisations of Industry 4.0, future research should explore competencies across industries as well as talent development mechanisms, for a nuanced understanding of competency requirements.

Practical implications

The study informs organisations, educators and policymakers guiding workforce training, talent management and development, educational curriculum aligned with the demands of Industry 4.0 to bridge the competency gaps. It can support India’s strategic initiatives like “Make in India” by fostering a digitally ready and competent workforce.

Originality/value

This research provides an empirically validated, structured framework for Industry 4.0 competency prioritization specific to the manufacturing sector in India. It integrates expert inputs with AHP to rank competencies, offering a contextual understanding of competency requirements. It also contributes to human capital theory by advancing competency mapping for Industry 4.0.
Financial reporting quality impact on the firms’ capital structure
Authors: Lisboa Inês , Costa Magali , Reis Carolina
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Most research suggests that capital structure is influenced by two elements: the firms’ internal and external characteristics. This study aims to add knowledge to the literature by analyzing the impact of firms’ financial information quality on capital structure options. Financial reports are the principal basis for most financial decisions, so their quality and content heavily influence firms’ financial choices.

Design/methodology/approach

An unbalanced panel sample of 414 listed firms on the main stock exchanges of Portugal (PSI), Italy (FTSE/MIB), Greece (FTSE/ATHEX) and Spain (IBEX 35) between 2013 and 2022 is analyzed. To achieve a more comprehensive result, capital structure and financial reporting quality are measured through multiple proxies. Capital structure is evaluated by the total and the maturity debt ratios, based on book and market values, and financial reporting quality is measured through four proxies: accruals quality, smoothness, timeliness and accounting conservatism.

Findings

The global analysis revealed mixed results, with three variables of the financial reporting quality exhibiting a positive impact on debt (accruals quality, smoothness and accounting conservatism), while the remaining proxy presented a negative impact (timeliness). Further analysis also indicates that companies affected by Troika policies experienced a contrasting effect of timeliness on debt, while the other firms displayed results consistent with the global analysis.

Originality/value

This work contributes to enlarging the capital structure debate by analyzing the impact of financial reporting quality, an effect little addressed by previous literature. Moreover, several proxies of financial reporting quality are used. Besides accruals quality or earnings management proxy, which is the most analyzed, the authors also include the proxies of smoothness and accounting conservatism, little investigated and timeliness that were not considered by previous researchers. Additionally, as control variables, not only firms’ specific characteristics are included but also macroeconomic factors. Therefore, the contributions of the paper are relevant to all stakeholders to broaden knowledge of factors that define the capital structure, as well as the relevance of firms to display financial reporting with quality.
The Development of Indo‐Iranian Voiced Fricatives
Authors: Beguš Gašper
Published: January 2025

The development of voiced sibilants is a long‐standing puzzle in Indo‐Iranian historical phonology. In Vedic, all voiced sibilants are lost from the system, but the details of this loss are complex and subject to debate. The most intriguing development concerns the word‐final ‐aḥ to ‐o in sandhi. This paper presents a new account of the development of voiced sibilants from the Proto‐Indo‐Iranian period to Vedic with a special emphasis on Iranian comparative data. I propose a new explanation for the peculiar development of word‐final voiced fricatives and motivate the new proposal with a phonetic explanation. I argue that *‐s lenited and voiced to *‐ɦ word‐finally which colours the preceding short vowel ă to *ɔ (o after lengthening). Word‐internally, no debuccalisation occurs. Voiced dental fricative *z colours the preceding a‐vowel to *ε (e after lengthening). The voiced retroflex fricative *ẓ, on the contrary, is central enough to cause no colouring. Voiced fricatives thus colour the preceding vowels with respect to their place of articulation. Dental fricatives cause fronting, while breathiness causes backing, which is supported by typological data. This proposal explains several unusual aspects of Vedic and Avestan data.
Role of Kctd13 in modulating AR and SOX9 expression in different penile cell populations
Authors: Jorgez Carolina J. , Chahdi Ahmed , Flores Hunter , O'Neill Marisol , Seth Abhishek
Published: January 2025

Objective

Micropenis is a condition with significant physical and psychological implications caused mainly by decreased androgen action in penile development. Kctd13‐knockout (Kctd13‐KO) mice have micropenis, cryptorchidism, and fertility defects because of reduced levels of androgen receptor (AR) and SOX9. We hypothesized that normalizing the levels of AR and SOX9 in the Kctd13‐KO penis could help us to understand the mechanism of action of these signaling pathways on penile development.

Methods

We generated transgenic mice lacking Kctd13 and conditionally expressing AR in the urethral mesenchyme after Cre activation with Twist2cre (Kctd13‐KO; AR‐CMV; Twist2cre; herein called AR+), and Sox9 in the urethral epithelium after Cre activation with Shhcre (Kctd13‐KO; Sox9‐CAG; Shhcre; herein called SOX9+). Mice penile morphology, fertility, and the effect of KCTD13 on AR and SOX9 ubiquitination were evaluated.

Results and Discussion

Kctd13‐KO micropenis phenotype was rescued after increasing levels of penile AR or SOX9 as transgenic AR+ and SOX9+ mice have longer penile lengths than Kctd13‐KO mice and are comparable to WT mice. In addition, male‐urogenital‐mating‐protuberance and the baculum were significantly shorter and narrower in Kctd13‐KO mice compared with transgenic AR+ and SOX9+ mice. The position of the urethral meatus was similar and orthotopic in location in Kctd13‐KO, AR+, SOX9+, and WT penises indicating that none of these mice had hypospadias. The subfertility of AR+ and SOX9+ mice was improved. The ectopic expression of KCTD13 in HEK293 cells strongly reduced AR ubiquitination which is abolished when the proteasome pathway is inhibited and this process is mediated by the ubiquitin ligase, STUB1. The effect of KCTD13 on SOX9 ubiquitination is minimal.

Conclusion

KCTD13 regulates AR ubiquitination by modulating STUB1 binding to AR. Penile restoration of AR and SOX9 improved penile development in Kctd13‐KO mice allowing us to discern the contribution from individual signaling pathways and cell types in penile development.
Authoritarianism and the Emergence of Parallel State Dynamics: Evidence From the Syrian Earthquake
Authors: Aldoughli Rahaf
Published: January 2025

This article investigates the Syrian regime's strategic manipulation of the February 2023 earthquake to reaffirm its authority and maintain legitimacy. The regime's response to the disaster is analyzed to understand how authoritarian states leverage natural disasters for political gains. It argues that the Assad regime's survival is not merely about governance capabilities but about extending its infrastructural power and political decisions through co‐opted civil society organizations. The earthquake highlighted the regime's fragile crisis management capabilities and its reliance on entities like the Syrian Trust for Development (STD) and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC), which function as quasi‐state apparatuses. These organizations, under the guise of civil society, operate as extensions of state power, embodying a “parallel state” structure. Using theoretical frameworks from scholars like Beshara and Gramsci, the article explores the regime's tactics of control, hegemony, and parallelization. It critically examines the blurred lines between state and civil society, emphasizing the regime's manipulation of international aid and the consolidation of its authority in the aftermath of the earthquake. This study contributes to the broader conversation on authoritarian durability, highlighting the complex interactions between state apparatuses and civil society in times of crisis.
FFT‐Based Phase‐Field Fracture Modeling of Periodic Inhomogeneous Microstructures
Authors: Schneider Tom , Kästner Markus
Published: January 2025

The failure of inhomogeneous microstructures is of increasing relevance, driven by the future need for tailored materials and the significant influence of microstructure on macroscopic properties. The phase‐field method for fracture has proven to be a versatile tool for predicting unknown crack paths and failure mechanisms. In this contribution, we propose a phase‐field model for fracture of periodic heterogeneous microstructures in a general finite strain setting. To overcome the bottleneck of scalability, we employ powerful and scalable solvers based on the fast Fourier transform (FFT). We demonstrate the capability of the model using the fundamental example of brittle fracture. A thorough comparison with conventional finite element method (FEM) reference results is carried out using a simple reference geometry. The results obtained show quantitative agreement between both numerical methods. Parameter studies provide recommendations for the choice of the numerical parameters. Following the comparison, we apply the FFT‐based method to synthetic inhomogeneous microstructures, with a special emphasis of the investigation on scalability with increasing degrees of freedom and robustness of the method. The results of 2D and 3D simulations are promising, paving the way for future extensions in inverse materials design, for example, for metallic microstructures.
Women's Menopausal Experiences in the UK: A Systemic Literature Review of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Anto Ailin , Basu Arunima , Selim Rania , Eisingerich Andreas B.
Published: January 2025

Background

Menopause, defined as the cessation of periods for over 12 months, can have a profound impact on women in numerous ways. Understanding women's experiences of menopause can lead to improved care and support during this transformative period.

Objectives

The objective of this systematic review is to identify and summarise published qualitative studies that consider the lived experiences of women with menopause in the UK and to serve as a basis for future research in the field of menopause.

Search Strategy

EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases were searched initially in March, and then updated in April 2024.

Inclusion Criteria

Peer‐reviewed papers with full text available in English, focused on women experiencing menopause in the UK, studies published from January 2000 to April 2024, qualitative or mixed methods study design with qualitative analysis.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Two authors independently performed title and abstract screening for eligibility. Conflicting opinions were resolved with a third author. Reviewers familiarised themselves with the data and coded the text line by line. Thematic analysis was utilised to place the codes into broader themes. All studies were assessed using an appropriate quality assessment tool.

Main Results

Thirty‐two studies were included in the review with 3462 participants involved. 173 primary codes were extracted and organised into subthemes and 3 overarching themes. These key themes were the biopsychosocial dimensions of menopause, understanding of menopause and strategies to manage menopause.

Discussion

Menopausal experiences documented in the literature are shaped by a range of individual and societal factors. While initiatives to support menopausal women are in place, this review also identifies key knowledge gaps and marginalised groups that would benefit from targeted research and interventions. It emphasises that menopause is not merely a collection of symptoms, but, for many, a pivotal life transition. A deeper understanding of these experiences allows us to more effectively support women through this significant phase of life.

Conclusions

This review concluded that the menopausal experience extends beyond physical symptoms, also affecting mental health, personal and professional life, and self‐identity. Additionally, menopause is shaped by individual life experiences and various personal factors.

Patient or Public Contributions

The studies analysed in this review contain original data from women in the UK undergoing menopause. The qualitative data delves into their experiences with symptoms, accessing various sources of support from NHS and non‐NHS sources as well as alternative therapies.
Childhood obesity trajectories and adolescent mental health: A UK cohort study
Authors: Putra I Gusti Ngurah Edi , Daly Michael , Robinson Eric
Published: January 2025

Background

There is limited evidence on how changes in obesity from childhood to adolescence are associated with adolescent mental health. We examined the associations between childhood obesity trajectories, obesity episodes, and mental health at age 17.

Methods

Data were from the UK Millennium Cohort Study. Obesity trajectory groups at ages 7 and 17 (n = 8306) and previous obesity episodes (number of sweeps with obesity) at ages 7, 11 and 14 (n = 7246) were examined. Caregiver and self‐reported internalising and externalising symptoms at age 17 were used to measure mental health. Linear regression models were used.

Results

Relative to never developing obesity, obesity development (β = 1.01; 95% CI = 0.71, 1.32) and persistence (β = 1.18; 95% CI = 0.74, 1.61) were associated with higher internalising symptoms at age 17 and worsening (increase in scores) of these symptoms between ages 7 and 17 (β = 0.87; 95% CI = 0.57, 1.17 and β = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.56, 1.26 for development and persistence, respectively). Obesity development was associated with higher externalising symptoms at age 17 (β = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.25, 0.80) and worsening of these symptoms over time (β = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.07, 0.53). Having multiple past obesity episodes was not associated with worsening mental health independent of follow‐up weight status. There were no differences in mental health outcomes between children who reversed versus never developed obesity.

Conclusions

Obesity development or persistence from ages 7 to 17 are associated with worsening mental health. If childhood obesity is reversed, there appears to be no evidence of a negative association between previous obesity and mental health at age 17.
Promoting Personal Recovery Within Psychiatric Inpatient Care—Nurses' Experiences
Authors: Hallberg Patrick , Graneheim Ulla Hällgren , Olsson‐Tall Maivor
Published: January 2025

To meet the aim of synthesising research on nurses' experiences of promoting personal recovery within psychiatric inpatient care, meta ethnography according to Noblit and Hare has been chosen as the method, which is a qualitative review of scientific literature that results in a synthesis. The focus is on interpretation and is expressed to be able to reduce a story, but at the same time keep what is unique using metaphors. Nine articles formed the basis of the synthesis. The analysis resulted in two levels of synthesis. The first level involved the translation of metaphors into one another, which proceeded in two directions, described as two principal headings. The second level produced five overarching metaphors. The first principal heading is that ‘erected walls in psychiatric inpatient care impedes personal recovery.’ It encompasses the overarching metaphors ‘cultivating in exhausted soil’ and ‘nurses are gatekeeping watchdogs’. The second principal heading is ‘torn‐down walls in psychiatric inpatient care enable personal recovery’. It encompasses the overarching metaphors ‘disarming and de‐escalating’, ‘facing suffering together reveals treasures’ and ‘elevating the competent partner promotes recovery’. Conclusively, if the nurse is to be able to promote personal recovery in psychiatric inpatient care, bridges of cooperation and consensus need to be built to other professions in care. Otherwise, the obstacles to promoting personal recovery will be far too hard to overcome.
Understanding Perinatal Mental Health: A Systems Science Approach to Identify Common Drivers and Opportunities for Intervention
Authors: O'Halloran Siobhan A. , Cusworth Rachael , Sunder Priya , Alston Laura , Vasilevski Vidanka , Dawson Samantha L. , Sweet Linda , Chapman Anna , Vuillermin Peter , Sominsky Luba ,   Pregnancy Research and Translation Ecosystem Investigator Group
Published: January 2025

PNDA are complex health conditions affecting up to one in five women. The causes of PNDA are not well understood and no proven prevention exists. This study aimed: (1) to understand health professionals' perspectives of the common drivers contributing to PNDA amongst women from regional and rural areas in Australia; (2) to identify clinical practice related to PNDA‐associated challenges; (3) to identify and inform areas for intervention. We conducted four online Group Model Building (GMB) workshops with health professionals from the southwest of Victoria, Australia. Informed by local data, participants built a model that progressed from connection circles to causal loop diagrams (CLD) to capture a shared understanding of the key drivers of PNDA rates within the region. The CLD was thematically analysed and common drivers were grouped. The GMB transcripts were thematically analysed inductively identifying emergent themes about PNDA drivers and intervention ideas. The CLD revealed 28 drivers and four key themes that stakeholders perceived to be driving the increasing rates of PNDA. An additional three major themes were identified from the GMB transcripts: (1) Social determinants of women's health; (2) Health system issues; (3) Negative birth experiences. Three key intervention themes were proposed, to improve collaboration between health services and departments, increase training availability, and increase continuity of care. Our findings suggest that dedicated training and pathways for collaboration between large regional and smaller rural services are necessary to address the rising rates of PNDA in the region.
Pregnancy, Gender Identity, Autonomy, and Trust
Authors: Mullin Amy
Published: January 2025

I ask what is required for pregnant trans and gender diverse (TGD) people to receive trustworthy reproductive healthcare which supports their autonomy. My focus is on wanted pregnancies. I understand interpersonal trust as a positive attitude towards the competence and motivation or commitment of a person trusted in a particular role, such as a healthcare professional, and autonomy as self‐governance shaped by what one cares about. I conceive of autonomy as relational and potentially enhanced or damaged by social interactions. I argue that mainstream bioethical conceptions of autonomy can accommodate my claims about how the autonomy of pregnant TGD persons can be diminished or supported, especially in relation to trust. I argue that support for the autonomy of pregnant TGD persons requires acknowledgement and understanding of their gender identity and when it is not relevant to their healthcare. My discussion has implications for whether morality requires us to affirm trans identities and what this means in healthcare. I conclude with remarks about what else we can learn by centering the experiences of pregnant TGD persons.
Risk factors of ventilator‐associated events in patients on mechanical ventilation: A scoping review
Authors: Rahmawati Evy Dwi , Ramadhani Dian Rizki , Pakalessy Afrianti , Setiyarini Sri
Published: January 2025

Background

Ventilator‐associated events (VAE) are associated with higher mortality rates. Understanding the risk factors for VAE provides preventive strategies for reducing them. Several studies have been conducted on VAE risk factors. However, the findings were inconsistent.

Aim

This scoping review aimed to explore the existing evidence on risk factors of VAEs in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Study Design

Searches were performed across eight databases including Pubmed, ProQuest, Scopus, ScienceDirect, BMJ, Web of Science, Taylor & Francis and Ebsco from 26 March to 5 April 2024, complemented by backward and forward citation tracking—eligible studies criteria: participants aged 18 years and older reporting on VAE risk factors. The publication must have occurred between 2013 and 2024, be available as full text and be written in English. A total of 19 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analysed.

Results

Forty‐four risk factors were identified. Decreased level of consciousness, chronic lung diseases, invasive operation, duration of MV, trauma, fluid overload, reintubation, enteral feeding, administration of sedation and stress ulcer prophylaxis were the most frequently reported risk factors for VAE.

Conclusions

This review identified several potential risk factors for VAE; some factors have varying results or lack evidence. Further research is needed to confirm the role of these factors in reducing VAE or to clarify inconsistent findings.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

These findings provide information on the risk factors for VAE. Nurses must identify the presence of these risk factors in all adult ICU patients receiving invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) and manage them to prevent the occurrence of VAE.
ZmNPF7.10 confers potassium and nitrogen distribution from node to leaf in maize
Authors: Hu Yingying , Zhang Man , Wang Kangqi , Tan Peipei , Jing Si , Han Wu , Wang Shuwei , Zhang Kaina , Zhao Xiaoming , Yang Xiaohong , Wang Yi
Published: January 2025

In graminaceous plants, nodes play vital roles in nutrient allocation, especially for preferential nutrient distribution to developing leaves and reproductive organs. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this distribution remain poorly understood.

In this study, we identified a transporter named ZmNPF7.10 that is involved in potassium (K) and nitrogen (N) distribution in maize nodes. In Xenopus oocytes, ZmNPF7.10 showed NO3− and K+ transport activity in a pH‐dependent manner. ZmNPF7.10 is predominantly expressed in the nodes at the reproductive growth stage, and preferentially expressed in the xylem parenchyma cells of enlarged vascular bundles (EVBs) in nodes. Disruption of ZmNPF7.10 resulted in the decline of K and N in leaves, but accumulation of K and N in nodes, suggesting ZmNPF7.10 conducts K and N distribution from nodes to leaves in maize.

We identified a natural variant of 7.1‐kb InDel in the promoter region that was significantly associated with ZmNPF7.10 transcript level in nodes, leaf K and N concentration, as well as grain yield.

These findings demonstrate that ZmNPF7.10 functions as a dual role transporter that mediates K and N distribution in nodes. This study provides important insights into the molecular mechanisms of nutrient distribution in maize.
Phylogenetic and biochemical drivers of plant species variation in organic compound hydrogen stable isotopes: novel mechanistic constraints
Authors: Baan Jochem , Holloway‐Phillips Meisha , Nelson Daniel B. , de Vos Jurriaan M. , Kahmen Ansgar
Published: January 2025

Significant variation in plant organic compound hydrogen stable isotope (δ2H) values among species from a single location suggests species biochemistry diversity as a key driver. However, the biochemical mechanisms and the biological relevance behind this species‐specific δ2H variation remain unclear.

We analyzed δ2H values of cellulose and n‐alkanes across 179 eudicot species in a botanical garden sampled in 2019, and cellulose, n‐alkanes, fatty acids and phytol δ2H values from 56 eudicot species sampled in 2020. We utilized the observed species variation in δ2H values to determine phylogenetic structure and mechanistic constraints for biochemical 2H‐fractionation.

A strong phylogenetic signal in lipid compound δ2H values implies that the drivers of species variation in lipid δ2H values are evolutionarily conserved. By contrast, species variation in cellulose δ2H values was not strongly linked to phylogeny. Generally low‐explanatory power of relationships between δ2H values of different compounds (R2 < 0.26) implies nonubiquitous drivers of species variation in plant organic compound δ2H values.

Historically, variable biochemical 2H‐fractionation was often attributed to δ2H values of H incorporated from NADPH. Instead, the results from this study suggest that species variation in biochemical 2H‐fractionation largely occurs independently within biosynthetic pathways. For lipids, these mechanisms appear strongly linked to evolutionary history.
Two tandem R2R3 MYB transcription factor genes cooperatively regulate anthocyanin accumulation in potato tuber flesh
Authors: Du Hui , Zhai Zefeng , Pu Jin , Liang Jun , Wang Rongyan , Zhang Zhong , Wang Pei , Zhu Yanhui , Huang Lian , Li Dawei , Chen Kaiyuan , Zhu Guangtao , Zhang Chunzhi
Published: January 2025

Anthocyanin biosynthesis and accumulation determines the colour of tuber flesh in potato (Solanum tuberosum) and influences nutritional quality. However, the regulatory mechanism behind anthocyanin biosynthesis in potato tuber flesh remains unclear. In this study, we identified the Pigmented tuber flesh (Pf) locus through a genome‐wide association study using 135 diploid potato landraces. Genome editing of two tandem R2R3 MYB transcription factor genes, StMYB200 and StMYB210, within the Pf locus demonstrated that both genes are involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis in tuber flesh. Molecular and biochemical assays revealed that StMYB200 promotes StMYB210 transcription by directly binding to a 1.7‐kb insertion present in the StMYB210 promoter, while StMYB210 also regulates its own expression. Furthermore, StMYB200 and StMYB210 both activated the expression of the basic helix–loop–helix transcription factor gene StbHLH1 and interacted with StbHLH1 to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis. An analysis of the StMYB210 promoter in different diploid potato accessions showed that the 1.7‐kb insertion is associated with flesh colour in potato. These findings reveal the genetic and molecular mechanism by which the Pf locus regulates anthocyanin accumulation in tuber flesh and provide an important reference for breeding new potato varieties with colourful flesh.
Cicatricial Alopecia in the Pediatric Population: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Carmichael Anna R. , Larrondo Jorge , Heath Candrice , Srivastava Radhika , Souza Brianna De , Obeime Ivie , McMichael Amy
Published: January 2025

This case series and literature review highlights the prevalence of scarring hair loss in children. A retrospective review of 29 pediatric cases from centers in the USA and Chile showed that primary cicatricial alopecia was more common, with lichen planopilaris and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia being the most frequent diagnoses. Early detection in children is essential to reduce progressive scarring.
Multi-GNSS Data Processing and Analysis in Point Positioning for Brazilian Stations in Months of High and Low Ionospheric Activity
Authors: Souza Felipe Tintino Linhares de , Zaupa João Pedro Voltare , Silva John Lennon Ferreira da , Stafocher Maluane Aline , Setti Jr Paulo Tarso , Alves Daniele Barroca Marra
Published: January 2025

The Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) have been increasingly used in positioning-related activities. The term GNSS includes the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS), the Russian GLObal’naya NAvigationnaya Sputnikowaya Sistema (GLONASS), initially developed by the Soviet Union, the European Union’s Galileo, the Chinese BeiDou, and Satellite and Ground Based Augmentation System (SBAS and GBAS). With the large number of satellites available, the trend today is to combine the systems at the user level, improving availability and positioning accuracy. The objective of this study is to process and analyze GNSS data from Brazilian monitoring stations using point positioning (PP), correlating with the ionosphere activity and the multipath around each station. Four systems were considered individually and combined, under different atmospheric conditions. The results were evaluated in terms of the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), considering the horizontal and vertical bias, as well as the respective uncertainties, given by the Least Squares Method (LSM). The multi-GNSS positioning presented the best results, mainly due to the redundancy in the number of observations (average of 29 satellites per epoch), with a root-mean-square error of 1.5 m. GPS and Galileo showed the best performance among the individual results.
Laser cooling and magneto-optical trapping of molecules
Authors: Horchani Ridha , Al-Shaqsi Abrar
Published: January 2025

Over the past 25 years, varieties of experimental techniques have been developed to create molecular samples at temperatures nearing absolute zero. Despite the complex internal structures of molecules, laser cooling of molecules has been achieved. This review covers the principles and development of laser cooling and magneto-optical trap of molecules and the status of the field.
Understanding Work-Avoidance Goals for Running in Physical Education
Authors: Xiang Ping , Liu Jiling , Li Weidong , Guan Jianmin
Published: January 2025

Purpose: To examine mean score changes of students’ work-avoidance (WA) goals for running in physical education from fifth to eighth grade and their relationships with persistence/effort and intention for future running participation. Methods: Participants included 793 American students (427 boys and 366 girls), who were tracked from Grades 5 to 8 in school. Questionnaire data were collected at the end of each school year. Primary data analysis included growth modeling and path analysis. Results: Mean scores of students’ WA goals for running declined from fifth to sixth grade but gradually increased toward the end of eighth grade. Students’ WA goals longitudinally and negatively predicted their persistence/effort and intention for future running participation in physical education. Conclusion: The observed prolonged and negative effects of WA goals on students’ outcomes in the present study suggest a need to develop effective strategies to prevent students from adopting WA goals in physical education settings.
Distribution of early-branching Cyanobacteriia and the potential habitats that gave rise to the earliest oxygenic phototrophs
Authors: Grettenberger Christen , Gold David A. , Brown C. Titus
Published: January 2025

The evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis in the Cyanobacteria was one of the most transformative events in Earth history, eventually leading to the oxygenation of Earth’s atmosphere. However, it is difficult to understand how the earliest Cyanobacteria functioned or evolved on early Earth in part because we do not understand their ecology, including the environments in which they lived. Here, we use a cutting-edge bioinformatics tool to survey nearly 500,000 metagenomes for relatives of the taxa that likely bookended the evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis to identify the modern environments in which these organisms live. Ancestral state reconstruction suggests that the common ancestors of these organisms lived in terrestrial (soil and/or freshwater) environments. This restricted distribution may have increased the lag between the evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis and the oxygenation of Earth’s atmosphere.

IMPORTANCE

Cyanobacteria generate oxygen as part of their metabolism and are responsible for the rise of oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere over two billion years ago. However, we do not know how long this process may have taken. To help constrain how long this process would have taken, it is necessary to understand where the earliest Cyanobacteria may have lived. Here, we use a cutting-edge bioinformatics tool called branch water to examine the environments where modern Cyanobacteria and their relatives live to constrain those inhabited by the earliest Cyanobacteria. We find that these species likely lived in non-marine environments. This indicates that the rise of oxygen may have taken longer than previously believed.
Supplemental Material: USA’s oldest rock? A simple question with a complex answer
Authors: Frost Carol D. , Mueller Paul A. , Bickford Marion E. , Stern Robert J.
Published: January 2025

Text S1. Analytical methods. Table S1. Zircon U-Pb isotopic data for the Watersmeet gneiss.
Ten proposed measures to improve vaccination: Health care providers’ perspectives on promoting the vaccination intake of children with special healthcare needs in China
Authors: Feng Tianxing , Chen Meiyi , Zhao Xuran , Wang Xiangshi , Ge Yanling , Wang Zhonglin , Guo Xiang , Huang Zhuoying , Zeng Mei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN) often experience vaccination delays or missed vaccines in China. The coverage rate of the age-appropriate National Immunisation Programme vaccine was suboptimal. This study aimed to explore attitudes, behaviours, and suggestions regarding the improvement of routine vaccination services for CSHCN among healthcare providers.

Methods

This study conducted local, cross-sectional interviews involving vaccination services for CSHCN. A purposive sampling strategy was used to recruit interviewees including primary care providers, paediatricians and immunisation programme administrators. The interview guide explored attitudes towards and suggestions for establishing immunisation advisory clinics and referral networks, updating immunisation guidance documents and vaccine package inserts and strengthening the education of vaccination providers.

Results

21 representative healthcare providers were interviewed. 10 measures were proposed to promote routine immunisation for children with special needs: (1) using immunisation advisory clinics to provide vaccination services for CSHCN; (2) establishing a referral network and specifying which cases necessitate referral to advisory clinics; (3) using an interconnected information system to identify, document and follow-up the CSHCN; (4) supporting high-quality clinical research to update immunisation protocols; (5) providing clear and definite immunisation recommendations to parents of eligible CSHCN; (6) seeking immunisation advice from specialised professionals to enhance primary care capability; (7) creating quality improvement programmes; (8) considering immunisation status a mandatory assessment during specialist visits; (9) supporting off-label use of vaccines legally and (10) encouraging pharmaceutical companies to update vaccine package inserts.

Conclusion

Vaccine uptake among CSHCN in China is suboptimal, highlighting the need for a referral network and a standard immunisation protocol. The National Immunisation Programme should develop clear recommendations and an education programme for regional Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to train local providers. A quality assurance and improvement programme, along with regular feedback, is essential to ensure CSHCN receive necessary vaccinations and protection against infectious diseases.
Qualitative study exploring the views and perceptions of parents/carers of young children with CF regarding the introduction of CFTR modulator therapy (The REVEAL study; PaRents pErspectiVEs of KAftrio in chiLdren aged 2–5)
Authors: Davies Sioned Haf , Wade Faye , Fogg Heather , Walsh Adam , Southern Kevin W
Published: January 2025

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is associated with a historically high treatment burden which causes anxiety and exhaustion for parents of children with CF, especially in the early years of a child’s life. Recently, a new medication, elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI), has become available to some people with CF, which has had a significant impact on the quality of life of older children and adults. This medication will soon be available for children ages 2–5 in the UK. This study investigated parents’ perspectives before their children could start ETI.

Method

10 parents of young children with CF participated in semistructured online focus groups. The data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify key themes.

Results

Three reviewers identified four main themes: (1) The ‘roller coaster’ of parental emotions: Shock, hope, uncertainty and anticipation, (2) The dark side of the unknown, side effects and burden of decision making, (3) The value of simple pleasures in a life with CF; treatment burden, normality, future, family life and (4) Reforming clinical care in the new era of CF care; support, communication and the future.

Conclusion

Parents experience a range of emotions from the day of diagnosis. While ETI brings hope and positivity, parents are concerned about the medication’s safety. Parents have clear hopes and wishes for their child’s future and reflect on the need for clinicians to consider reforming clinical care in the new era of CF for those eligible for new therapies.