bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alcohol use disorder as a moderator of the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder and suicidality among military personnel
Authors: Walton Thomas O. , Graupensperger Scott , Walker Denise D. , Kaysen Debra
Published: May 2024

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicide are substantial public health concerns among military service members, yet the nature of their relationships is not well understood. Here, we tested the hypothesis that AUD moderates the relationship between PTSD symptom severity and suicidal ideation.

Methods

This secondary analysis uses data collected at baseline for a randomized clinical trial. The sample consists of 160 active‐duty service members from three service branches (Army, Air Force, and Navy). All participants met diagnostic criteria for PTSD and were not engaged in evidence‐based PTSD treatment at the time of enrollment. Zero‐inflated Poisson generalized linear regression models were used to test the associations of PTSD and AUD symptom severity with the presence and severity of suicidal ideation.

Results

Findings suggest that AUD symptom severity moderates (i.e., amplifies) the relationship between PTSD symptoms and severity of suicidal ideation among military personnel with untreated PTSD. Among service members with mild or absent AUD, we found no significant association between PTSD symptoms and the severity of suicidal ideation. However, when AUD severity was average (i.e., sample mean) or high (mean + 1SD), PTSD symptoms were significantly positively associated with the severity of suicidal ideation.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of assessing AUD and PTSD as a part of suicide risk evaluations of veterans. The results also provide strong support for the maintenance and further development in the military health system of treatment programs that simultaneously address AUD and PTSD comorbidity.
The long‐term adherence following the end of Community Treatment Order: A systematic review
Authors: Cossu Giulia , Kalcev Goce , Sancassiani Federica , Primavera Diego , Gyppaz Davide , Zreik Thurayya , Carta Mauro Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Background

The community treatment order (CTO) is designed to deliver mental healthcare in the community and has been introduced in around 75 jurisdictions worldwide. It constitutes a legal obligation in which individuals with severe mental illness must adhere to out‐of‐hospital treatment plans. Despite intense criticism and the debated nature of published evidence, it has emerged as a clinical and policy response to frequent hospital readmissions and to enhance adherence in cases where there is refusal of pharmacological treatments. This systematic review outlines findings on CTO long‐term adherence, after mandatory outpatient treatment has ended, in studies that include people with psychiatric disorders.

Method

Following PRISMA guidelines, we performed a review of published articles from PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and CINAHL up to January 15, 2023. We included studies that assessed adherence after CTO ends. The study is registered with PROSPERO number CRD42022360879.

Results

Six independent studies analyzing the main indicators of long adherence: engagement with services and medication adherence, were included. The average methodological quality of the studies included is fair. Long‐term adherence was assessed over a period ranging from 11 to 28 months. Only two studies reported a statistically significant improvement. Regarding the remaining studies, no positive correlation was observed, except for certain subgroup samples, while in one study, medication adherence decreased.

Conclusion

Scientific evidence supporting the hypothesis that CTO has a positive role on long‐term adherence post‐obligation is currently not sufficient. Given the importance of modern recovery‐oriented approaches and the coercive nature of compulsory outpatient treatment, it is necessary that future studies ensure the role of CTO in effectively promoting adherence.
Multi‐omic integration reveals alterations in nasal mucosal biology that mediate air pollutant effects on allergic rhinitis
Authors: Irizar Haritz , Chun Yoojin , Hsu Hsiao‐Hsien Leon , Li Yan‐Chak , Zhang Lingdi , Arditi Zoe , Grishina Galina , Grishin Alexander , Vicencio Alfin , Pandey Gaurav , Bunyavanich Supinda
Published: May 2024

Background

Allergic rhinitis is a common inflammatory condition of the nasal mucosa that imposes a considerable health burden. Air pollution has been observed to increase the risk of developing allergic rhinitis. We addressed the hypotheses that early life exposure to air toxics is associated with developing allergic rhinitis, and that these effects are mediated by DNA methylation and gene expression in the nasal mucosa.

Methods

In a case–control cohort of 505 participants, we geocoded participants' early life exposure to air toxics using data from the US Environmental Protection Agency, assessed physician diagnosis of allergic rhinitis by questionnaire, and collected nasal brushings for whole‐genome DNA methylation and transcriptome profiling. We then performed a series of analyses including differential expression, Mendelian randomization, and causal mediation analyses to characterize relationships between early life air toxics, nasal DNA methylation, nasal gene expression, and allergic rhinitis.

Results

Among the 505 participants, 275 had allergic rhinitis. The mean age of the participants was 16.4 years (standard deviation = 9.5 years). Early life exposure to air toxics such as acrylic acid, phosphine, antimony compounds, and benzyl chloride was associated with developing allergic rhinitis. These air toxics exerted their effects by altering the nasal DNA methylation and nasal gene expression levels of genes involved in respiratory ciliary function, mast cell activation, pro‐inflammatory TGF‐β1 signaling, and the regulation of myeloid immune cell function.

Conclusions

Our results expand the range of air pollutants implicated in allergic rhinitis and shed light on their underlying biological mechanisms in nasal mucosa.
Holmium:yttrium‐aluminium‐garnet laser with MOSES technology is more efficient than thulium fibre laser in supine mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Vergamini Lucas B. , Ito Willian , Choi B Nicholas , Du Holly E. , Sardiu Mihaela E. , Neff Donald , Duchene David A. , Molina Wilson R. , Whiles Bristol B.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To address the paucity of literature comparing outcomes achieved with utilisation of the high‐power holmium:yttrium‐aluminium‐garnet (Ho:YAG) laser with MOSES technology vs those achieved with the thulium fibre laser (TFL) in mini‐percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of patients undergoing supine mini‐PCNL between August 2021 and May 2023. Exclusion criteria were urinary diversion, simultaneous utilisation of >1 laser platform, use of any other form of fragmentation, and ureteric stones. The Ho:YAG platform (Lumenis Pulse P120H™ with MOSES technology, 120W; Boston Scientific®) and the TFL (Soltive SuperPulsed Thulium Fibre [SPTF], 60W; Olympus®) were compared. Data on stone‐free rate (SFR) were determined by computed tomography performed on the first postoperative day and presented as absence of stone fragments, no fragments larger than 2 mm, or no fragments larger than 4 mm.

Results

A total of 100 patients met the inclusion criteria, 51 mini‐PCNLs with the Ho:YAG laser and 49 with the SPTF laser. No significant differences in demographics or stone characteristics were detected between the two groups. The Ho:YAG laser utilised less energy and time, resulting in higher ablation efficiency (P < 0.05) and less total operating time (P < 0.05). Overall, there was no difference in SFR in any category between the Ho:YAG group and the SPTF group (no fragments: relative risk [RR] 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–1.12, P = 0.21; fragments <2 mm: RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.67–1.10, P = 0.23; fragments <4 mm: RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.80–1.15, P = 0.67).

Conclusions

Although we observed an equivalent postoperative SFR, this study supports a shorter operating time and greater intra‐operative laser efficiency with the Ho:YAG laser over the SPTF laser in mini‐PCNL.
Severe adrenal insufficiency in six neonates with normal newborn screening for CAH
Authors: Kurt Ilknur , Eser Metin , Kahveci Ahmet , Ucar Ahmet , Bulus Derya , Ozcabi Bahar , Guran Omer , Karagozlu Selen , Ersoy Aysenur , Demir Senol , Geckinli Bilge , Guran Tulay
Published: May 2024

Background

Newborn screening (NBS) reduces the risk of mortality in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), mainly due to the salt‐wasting form of 21‐hydroxylase deficiency. There is limited knowledge regarding the results of NBS in non‐CAH primary adrenal insufficiency (non‐CAH PAI).

Patients and Methods

Clinical and NBS for CAH data of neonates who were diagnosed with non‐CAH PAI between January and December 2022 were examined.

Results

Patients (n = 6, 4 females) were presented with severe hyperpigmentation (n = 6), hypoglycemia (n = 4), hyponatremia (n = 3), hyperkalemia (n = 1), respiratory distress syndrome (n = 1) between 3rd hour to 2 months of life. All had normal NBS results. The median first‐tier 17‐hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) concentration in NBS for CAH was 0.14 ng/mL (range; 0.05−0.85). Molecular studies revealed biallelic mutations in the MC2R (n = 4; 3 homozygous, 1 compound heterozygous), MRAP (n = 1) and STAR (n = 1) genes. Glucocorticoid with or without mineralocorticoid replacement was initiated once the diagnosis of non‐CAH PAI was established.

Conclusion

Neonates with non‐CAH PAI have always normal NBS due to persistently low 17OHP, even when these newborn infants are severely symptomatic for adrenal insufficiency. Clinicians should be alert for signs of adrenal insufficiency in neonates, even if the patient has a ‘normal’ screening for CAH, so as not to delay diagnosis and treatment. This fact should be kept in mind particularly in countries where these conditions are more common than elsewhere.
Efficacy and safety of apheresis therapy in AQP4 antibody‐positive NMOSD attack: A propensity score‐matched cohort study
Authors: Xu Yun , Wang Huabing , Song Tian , Yin Linlin , Yao Yajun , Wei Yuzhen , Cong Hengri , Sun Jiali , Zhang Xinghu , Tian De‐Cai
Published: May 2024

Objective

Plasma exchange (PE) and immunoadsorption (IA) are recognized as effective ways to treat attacks in AQP4 antibody‐positive NMOSD, but high‐quality evidence was lacking. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PE/IA plus intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) in NMOSD attacks using propensity scores to match IVMP as control.

Methods

Patients were from a prospective observational cohort study. Stratification and interval propensity score matching (PSM) were used to reduce selection bias by matching baseline characteristics (gender, age, time to IVMP, EDSS at attack) between PE/IA + IVMP and IVMP group (in a ratio of 1:2). The primary endpoint of efficacy was EDSS change at 6 months. Adverse events and changes in laboratory tests were recorded.

Results

Four hundred and eleven attacks of 336 patients were screened for PSM, and 90 attacks (30 PE/IA + IVMP and 60 IVMP) were included in the analysis. There were significant differences in EDSS [6.25 vs. 6.75; IQR (4.50–8.38 vs. 5.00–8.00), p = 0.671] and visual acuity [median logMAR = 0.35 vs. 1.00; IQR (0.30–0.84 vs. 0.95–1.96), p = 0.002] change between two groups at 6 months. PE/IA + IVMP treatment demonstrated predictive capacity for good recovery as indicated by an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.726. Fibrinogen reduction was found during PE/IA + IVMP treatment [n = 15 (50.00%)], but no severe adverse events led to apheresis treatment discontinuation.

Discussion

After PSM analysis, IVMP+PE/IA in acute attack of NMOSD achieved better and continuous improvement in neurological function within 6 months compared with IVMP alone. PE/IA treatment showed a good safety profile.
1098. Epipactis dunensis (T.Stephenson & T.A.Stephenson) Godfery
Authors: Fay Michael F. , Raistrick Reinhild , Sayers Brendan
Published: May 2024

Epipactis dunensis (T.Stephenson & T.A.Stephenson) Godfery is illustrated: a list of synonyms and description are given. Taxonomy of Epipactis Zinn is complex, and the current status of E. dunensis is discussed in light of this.
1092. Begonia hongkongensis F.W.Xing: Begoniaceae
Authors: Landrein Sven , Li Man Ching , Williams Craig , Gale Stephan W.
Published: May 2024

Begonia hongkongensis F.W.Xing is described and illustrated. Begonia section Platycentrum series Aequilateralibus, to which it belongs, is likely to be an artificial group defined by its symmetrical leaf base, a feature that is atypical for the genus as a whole, but which may have evolved as an adaptation to flash floods since it is associated with rheophytic and streamside species of tropical areas with very high annual rainfall. Variation within the species and relationships with morphologically similar species are discussed.
Do You See What I See? A personal account of several seismic shifts in design
Authors: Felde Nathan
Published: May 2024

It seems clear that the high ground for human designers will be enjoyed by those with boundless curiosity and exquisite perception.

Technology has brought enormous change to the field of design, and another seismic wave looms with the advent of AI tools. Where might it take design in the future?
Reproductive compatibility of two lines of Delia platura
Authors: Bush‐Beaupré Allen , Savage Jade , Fortier Anne‐Marie , Fournier François , MacDonald Andrew , Bélisle Marc
Published: May 2024

Accurate identification of agricultural pests is a major component of integrated pest management. The seedcorn maggot, Delia platura (Meigen) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae), is a cosmopolitan polyphagous pest species that may be found in high numbers in numerous crops. Two morphologically identical genetic lines of D. platura (H and N) with distinct distributions were recently identified. To date, no study has investigated the reproductive compatibility of the two lines and thus the possibility that they may actually be two unique biological entities. A previous study described the reproductive traits of the two lines and suggested that H‐line females are highly selective toward the male with which they mate, pointing to a possible pre‐mating isolation mechanism between the lines. Using laboratory‐reared colonies originating from the Montérégie region in Québec, Canada, this study investigates the reproductive compatibility of the two D. platura lines. We found that only one of 30 H‐line females was inseminated by an N‐line male, further suggesting mate choice as a pre‐mating isolation mechanism between the lines. However, N‐line females were readily inseminated by H‐line males, suggesting a lack of pre‐mating isolation in this type of cross. The eggs laid by N‐line females mated with H‐line males had a lower hatching rate than the ones laid by females of intraline crosses, suggesting either post‐mating pre‐zygotic or post‐zygotic partial isolation. However, the larvae that did hatch had a comparable developmental success to those from intraline crosses in terms of survival and developmental time from larval hatching to adult emergence, pupal mass, and adult sex ratio, suggesting a lack of post‐zygotic isolation for these life stages. Considering the different biological traits of the two lines, we suggest the use of the ‘biotype’ terminology to designate the two biological entities and discuss their implications for integrated pest management.
Impact of specific features of national quality assurance and higher education systems in the overall quality of higher education—A comparative analysis
Authors: Vašenda Jan , Čadil Jan
Published: May 2024

Our study uses a qualitative comparative analysis method in order to assess the impact of national accreditation schemes and also other relevant features of the higher education systems of 20 OECD countries on quality of the higher education sector measured by world rankings of national higher education systems. The analysis shows that higher education systems with accreditation system focused mainly on inputs, lacking involvement of professionals in the accreditation process, having a single body granting accreditation for the respective type of institution or degree, not having English as an official language, and not allowing public universities to charge tuition fees do worse in the higher education system rankings.
Ultraviolet B irradiation increases the expression of cornulin and retepin in human skin xenotransplants
Authors: Makino Teruhiko , Mizawa Megumi , Takemoto Keita , Shimizu Tadamichi
Published: May 2024

Cornulin (CRNN) and repetin (RPTN) belong to the fused‐type S100 protein family. Although these proteins have been reported to be expressed in the granular layer of the epidermis and have been suggested to be associated with barrier formation in the epidermis, their exact function remains unclear. This study examined the effects of ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation on CRNN and RPTN expression in human skin xenotransplantation. The CRNN expression increased in the granular layer of UVB‐irradiated skin 2 days after UVB irradiation compared to that in sham‐irradiated skin. Interestingly, CRNN signals were observed not only in the cytoplasm, but also in the peripheral regions of granular keratinocytes. In contrast, RPTN was rarely expressed in sham‐irradiated skin; however, RPTN signals were markedly increased in the granular layer of the UVB‐irradiated skin. In addition, activation of ERK1/2 and STAT3 was observed in UVB‐irradiated skin. Accordingly, the present study demonstrated that CRNN and RPTN are novel proteins whose expression can be increased by UVB irradiation. The activation of ERK1/2 and STAT3 may be associated with the regeneration of a UVB‐damaged epidermis, and CRNN and RPTN may be induced to repair any dysfunction in the epidermal barrier during this regeneration process.
Where is the patriarchy?: A review and research agenda for the concept of patriarchy in management and organization studies
Authors: Ferry Nicole
Published: May 2024

In this paper I analyze 30 years of research on patriarchy in top management and organization studies (MOS) journals, and I map out an agenda for (re)igniting patriarchy as both a topic of study and lens for viewing key MOS issues in a new light. I organize my review (175 articles) around three themes: intersections, subjects, and contexts. By intersections I refer to the nuanced ways that scholars define patriarchy, adopting interdisciplinary and intersectional perspectives to understand the diversity of women's experiences under patriarchal domination. By subjects I refer to the primary focus on women's experiences, and on the ways that women's subjectivities are socially constituted and negotiated within patriarchal discourses of work and organizational life. By contexts I refer to the sites where MOS research has investigated patriarchy, as well as the ways this research has framed patriarchy itself as a context. Based on this thematic review, I outline a future research agenda to further refine the concept in MOS in three key ways. I call for increased research approaches that center the structural/political forces of patriarchy and gender, increased focus on the experiences of men as agents and subjects of patriarchal domination, and increased attention on patriarchy in Western contexts to redress the overrepresentation of research on patriarchy in the Global South. I conclude that patriarchy is an important line of inquiry for MOS, and that further attention to the concept would enable MOS research to contribute more fully to contemporary debates on gender.
A tutorial on solving single‐leader‐multi‐follower problems using SOS1 reformulations
Authors: Aussel Didier , Egea Cécile , Schmidt Martin
Published: May 2024

In this tutorial, we consider single‐leader‐multi‐follower games in which the models of the lower‐level players have polyhedral feasible sets and convex objective functions. This situation allows for classic Karush–Kuhn–Tucker reformulations of the separate lower‐level problems, which lead to challenging single‐level reformulations of Mathematical Programing with Complementarity Constraints (MPCC) type. The main contribution of this tutorial is to present a ready‐to‐use reformulation of this MPCC using special‐ordered‐sets of type 1 (SOS1) conditions. These conditions are readily available in all modern mixed‐integer linear optimization solvers that solve the single‐leader‐multi‐follower problem to optimality. After formally stating the problem class under consideration as well as deriving its reformulations, we present explicit Python code that shows how these techniques can be realized using the solver Gurobi. Finally, we also show the effect of the SOS1‐based reformulation using the real‐world example of industrial eco‐park modeling.
The perception of burnout and related influencing factors in Tunisian oncology nurses
Authors: Zemni Ines , Mansouri Houyem , Abidi Fethia , Ayadi Mohamed Ali , Yahyaoui Yosra , Ben Dhiab Tarek
Published: May 2024

Background

Oncology nurses constantly provide emotional support to patients and are confronted with their suffering, which represents chronic stress leading to the development of burnout syndrome.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of burnout and identify associated factors in a sample of oncology nurses.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive cross‐sectional study with 70 oncology nurses at the Salah Azaiez Institute of Oncology in Tunisia. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Service Survey. This study follows the STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) Guidelines.

Results

Burnout affected 60 nurses (85.7%), with a high level in 20% of cases. High scores of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and low personal accomplishment were recorded in 65.7%, 50% and 25.7% respectively. Emotional exhaustion was associated with higher age, marital status, having 2 or 3 or more dependent children, number of patients under care exceeding 15, professional experience and history of psychiatric problems. Depersonalisation was correlated with age, marital status, professional grade and history of psychiatric problems. Low levels of personal accomplishment increased with the number of patients under care, history of psychiatric problems and the regret of professional choice.

Conclusion

Burn‐out is a reality in oncology hospital with an alarming rate. Interventions including rationalisation of workload, support groups, training in emotion and stress management would improve the mental health of these nurses and increase their performance. The screening for burnout should be included as a regular practice in health promotion programmes for oncology health professionals, particularly for a vulnerable subgroup that possesses the risk mentioned above factors.
Experimental study on moisture diffusivity, activation energy, and mathematical modeling of drying kohlrabi under different solar drying methods
Authors: Muthuvairavan Guna , Natarajan Sendhil Kumar
Published: May 2024

The assessment and enhancement of any drying system for optimal drying processes relies on critical parameters, namely moisture diffusivity and activation energy. In this study, medicinally beneficial kohlrabi of 40‐mm diameter and 6‐mm thickness samples were dried under three different drying methods, namely open sun drying (OSD), natural air‐circulation mode (NACM) single slope direct solar dryer (SSDSD), and forced air‐circulation mode (FACM) SSDSD. The experimental results showed that the drying chamber operating temperature and air velocity played significant roles in the moisture diffusion process and activation energy required to dry the kohlrabi sample. The FACM exhibited the highest average moisture diffusivity values at 7.29 × 10−10 m2/s, surpassing both NACM (5.65 × 10−10 m2/s) and OSD (3.28 × 10−10 m2/s). The activation energy needed for the drying process was the lowest in FACM at 27.44 kJ/mol, followed by NACM at 31.37 kJ/mol and OSD at 35.29 kJ/mol. This is due to the uniform temperature distribution and high airflow rate in the case of FACM. Additionally, 10 thin‐layer models were tested for all three experimental conditions. The statistical analysis showed that for OSD and NACM, the Midilli et al. model, and for FACM, the Page model was best suited for representing drying kinetics with lowest χ2 and root mean square error and highest R2 values. Furthermore, the energy and exergy assessment guaranteed an evaluation of the solar drying system's efficiency.

Practical applications

This research provides valuable insights into optimizing solar drying methods for kohlrabi preservation. Understanding how temperature and air velocity influence moisture diffusivity and activation energy allows practitioners to enhance drying efficiency. Forced air‐circulation mode (FACM) single slope direct solar dryer (SSDSD) emerges superior, with higher moisture diffusivity and lower activation energy. The study also identifies appropriate drying kinetics models for each method, aiding the accurate prediction of drying behavior. Emphasizing efficiency, the research highlights FACM's superior thermal efficiency and natural air‐circulation mode's higher exergetic efficiency. These insights empower practitioners to make informed decisions, potentially improving agricultural product preservation, reducing energy consumption, and promoting sustainability. Moreover, the research's findings hold significant implications for industrial food processing and preservation applications, suggesting the direct implementation of optimized solar drying techniques in large‐scale settings for kohlrabi and similar agricultural products.
Aggregate Risk and Lending Decisions in the Interbank Market
Authors: BECHARA ANUAR , BERNALES ALEJANDRO , CAÑÓN CARLOS , GARRIDO NICOLÁS
Published: May 2024

We introduce a novel measure of the market‐wide risk of the interbank market: the total (across all banks) uncollateralized/collateralized lending volume ratio: . This measure is based on the intuition that lender banks should use less (more) uncollateralized (collateralized) lending when aggregate risk increases, after controlling for banks’ features and market conditions that might affect (e.g., banks’ credit risk, cross‐border inflows, supply–demand heterogeneity, and funding costs, among others). This is because collateralized loans are safer than uncollateralized ones after an interbank market‐wide collapse. Actually, we show that modifies the future lending decisions and net lending holdings of individual banks.
Once‐per‐week haemodialysis in a financial crisis: Predictors of interdialytic weight gain
Authors: Jagodage Hemamali M. H. , Seib Charrlotte , McGuire Amanda , Bonner Ann
Published: May 2024

Background

Several countries are experiencing challenges in maintaining standard haemodialysis services for people with kidney failure.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the health profile of people receiving haemodialysis and to identify factors associated with interdialytic weight gain.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Participants

A total of 166 adults with kidney failure and receiving haemodialysis for at least 3 months were included.

Measurements

A structured chart audit form collected, demographic and haemodialysis treatment characteristics, recent biochemical and haematological results, and prescribed treatment regimens from clinical records. Data were analysed descriptively. Odds ratios (OR) were calculated to identify independent risk factors for interdialytic weight gain.

Results

Mean age was 52 years (SD = 12.5), over half were male (60.2%, n = 100), and most were receiving 4 h of haemodialysis once per week (87.3%, n = 145). Approximately half (51.8%, n = 86) had an interdialytic weight gain >2%. Being female (OR = 3.39; 95% CI, 1.51–7.61), increased comorbidities (OR = 1.50; 95% CI, 1.22–1.84) and having BMI outside of the normal range (overweight/obese [OR = 8.49; 95% CI, 3.58–20.13] or underweight [OR = 4.61; 95% CI, 1.39–15.31]) were independent risk factors for increased interdialytic weight gain.

Conclusion

Most patients were receiving 4 h of haemodialysis once per week although only modest alterations in potassium, phosphate, and fluid status were observed. Understanding the patient profile and predictors of interdialytic weight gain will inform the development of self‐management interventions to optimise clinician support.
Neoscytalidium dimidiatum: A newly identified postharvest pathogen of pears and its implications for pome fruits
Authors: Derviş Sibel , Zholdoshbekova Sezim , Güney İnci Güler , Özer Göksel
Published: May 2024

Türkiye is a prominent contributor to pear and diverse pome fruit production. Pear fruit with unusual brown to black spots and rot symptoms observed in public marketplaces in Mardin province have raised concerns regarding postharvest fruit health. The consistent isolation of a fungus from these fruits revealed morphological features indicative of Neoscytalidium dimidiatum. Phylogenetic confirmation of its identity ensued through BLASTn searches targeting, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of ribosomal DNA, the partial translation elongation factor 1‐alpha gene (tef1), and the partial β‐tubulin gene (tub2). Pathogenicity evaluations were conducted on common pome fruits, namely pears, apples, and quinces, unveiling the susceptibility of all examined fruits to postharvest infection by this emergent pathogen. Furthermore, an investigation was carried out to discern the pathogen's response to varying temperature ranges on pear fruits, revealing that the most pronounced lesions occurred at 30°C, followed by 25°C, 35°C, and 20°C. Conversely, no lesion development was observed at 10°C, 15°C, or 40°C. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first report of N. dimidiatum as the etiological agent responsible for postharvest rot in pear fruit. The implications of these findings highlight the potential threat posed by this pathogen to pome fruits postharvest, especially in regions where cold storage facilities are not widely utilized, warranting increased vigilance and preventive measures.
Authorship in artificial intelligence‐generated works: Exploring originality in text prompts and artificial intelligence outputs through philosophical foundations of copyright and collage protection
Authors: Mazzi Francesca
Published: May 2024

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) and its generative capabilities have propelled innovation across various industries, yet they have also sparked intricate legal debates, particularly in the realm of copyright law. Generative AI systems, capable of producing original content based on user‐provided input or prompts, have introduced novel challenges regarding ownership and authorship of AI‐generated works. One crucial aspect of this discussion revolves around text prompts, which serve as instructions for AI systems to generate specific content types, be it text, images, or music. Despite the transformative potential of AI‐generated works, the legal landscape remains fragmented, with disparate jurisdictional interpretations and a lack of uniform approaches. This disparity has led to legal uncertainty and ambiguity, necessitating a nuanced exploration of originality, creativity, and legal principles in the context of text prompts and resulting outputs. This article seeks to contribute to the ongoing debate by delving into the complexities surrounding AI‐generated works, focusing specifically on the originality of text prompts and their correlation with resulting outputs. While previous literature has extensively examined copyright issues related to AI, the originality of text prompts remains largely unexplored, representing a significant gap in the existing discourse. By analysing the originality of text prompts, this article aims to uncover new insights into the creative process underlying AI‐generated works and its implications for copyright law. Drawing parallels from traditional creative works, such as collages, the article will assess how legal principles apply to AI‐generated content, considering philosophical foundations as well as copyright principles, such as the idea‐expression dichotomy. Furthermore, the article will explore the divergent approaches taken by different jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, United States, and European Union, in determining originality in the context of copyright law. While refraining from providing definitive answers, the article aims to stimulate critical thinking and dialogue among stakeholders. By offering fresh perspectives and insights, it seeks to enrich the discourse surrounding the copyrightability of AI‐generated works and pave the way for informed policy decisions and legal interpretations. The article aims to contribute valuable perspectives to the ongoing debate on copyright and AI, shaping the future trajectory of intellectual property law in the era of artificial intelligence.
Elections and policies: Evidence from the Covid pandemic
Authors: Grechyna Daryna
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the impact of political elections on public policies during the Covid pandemic, distinguishing between economic (supportive) and noneconomic (restrictive) policies in a panel of countries that held political elections during 3 years of pandemic, 2020–2022. An event study, controlling for the evolution of the pandemic in terms of Covid cases and deaths, as well as country and time fixed effects, reveals significant adjustments in the Covid‐related restrictive, lockdown‐type, policies but not in the Covid‐related economic support policies before political elections during the first half of the pandemic. The pre‐election policy adjustments included a gradual easing of the restrictions before elections and were driven by the changes in the restrictions that were more likely to directly affect the electorate, such as the restrictions on workplace closing, gatherings, and public events. The presence of the pre‐election restrictions adjustment is conditional on the economic and political characteristics of the country, such as the state of democracy, the degree of political competition, the overall restrictions stringency, and the income level.
Courts, the state, and democratization in the United States
Authors: Lieberman Robert C. , Gaines Kory J.
Published: May 2024

The United States is facing an era of acute democratic fragility. The Supreme Court is often understood as a key countermajoritarian institution that often impedes democratization. But adopting an interbranch perspective, we show that the court has been a stronger champion of democratization in the United States than is typically recognized. National power has generally been necessary to overcome antidemocratic subnational policy, and national state power requires both standard setting and coercion. Using an original dataset of Supreme Court rulings on civil rights and racial equality, we show that the court was an earlier and more consistent champion of racial democratization than is generally understood but that in the absence of cooperation from the rest of the federal government's coercive apparatus, the court's standard‐setting rulings had little impact. These findings suggest the conditions under which the protection of democratic gains might be possible.
Petrological, chemical, and chronological study of breccias in the Chang'e‐5 soil
Authors: Shi Yuruo , Peng Wenxiao , Joy Katherine H. , Yu Xuefeng , Guan Yue , Bao Zemin , Che Xiaochao , Tartèse Romain , Snape Joshua F. , Head James W. , Whitehouse Martin J. , Wang Xiaolei , Qian Yuqi , Li Zengsheng , Wang Chen , Long Tao , Xie Shiwen , Fan Runlong , Liu Jianhui , Yang Zhiqing , Yang Chun , Wang Peizhi , Liu Shoujie , Wang Zhen , Huang Haibin , Kang Yuelan , Sun Huiyi , Zhang Wei , Tian Lanlan , Li Huawei , Mao Xiaohong , Shan Wei , Li Dapeng , Liu Dunyi , Nemchin Alexander A.
Published: May 2024

We carried out a petrological, mineralogical, and geochemical study of fragmental and regolith breccia clasts separated from two Chang'e‐5 (CE‐5) soil samples, CE5C0000YJYX03501GP and CE5C0400, which provide an opportunity to investigate the compositional change of regolith at the landing site through time. Fragmental breccia CE‐5‐B3 contains a diverse range of basaltic clasts and basaltic mineral fragments, and some rare Mg‐suite‐like minerals. Regolith breccias CE‐5‐B006, CE‐5‐B007, CE‐5‐B010‐08, CE‐5‐B010‐09, CE‐5‐B011‐07, and CE‐5‐B016‐03 contain mare basaltic fragments, mare vitrophyric clasts, rare Mg‐rich fragments possibly derived from the Mg‐suite rocks, and impact‐derived glass spherules. Pb‐isotope data obtained for baddeleyite grains found both inside some of the basaltic clasts identified in breccia fragments and in the breccia matrices yield Pb/Pb dates similar to the 2 Ga crystallization age of the CE‐5 basalt fragments, extracted directly from the soil sample. Seventy‐four Pb isotope analyses of Ca‐phosphate grains also indicate that the majority of these grains have Pb/Pb dates of 2 Ga, suggesting that they originate from the CE‐5 basalts. In addition, a Pb–Pb isochron drawn through analyses of four Ca‐phosphates in breccia CE5‐B006 yielded an intercept corresponding to a date of 3871 ± 46 Ma, which is the best possible estimate of the formation age of these four grains. Electron probe microanalysis shows that the breccias contain components similar to CE‐5 mare basalt fragments extracted directly from the soil sample, implying that the fragmental and regolith breccia fragments are mostly composed of material sourced from the underlying basalts. The general absence of impact melt breccia clasts, along with the general lack of Fe–Ni metal and absence of added meteoritic debris all suggest that the regolith at the CE‐5 landing site is immature and dominated by material mixed together by small local impact cratering events. Trace element analyses show that the glass beads in the regolith breccias have a Th abundance of 4.06–5.28 μg g−1. This is similar to the Th content of the regolith above the Em4 unit at the landing site as measured from orbit, as well as the estimated bulk Th content of CE‐5 basalts, suggesting that Th of the local regolith is predominantly sourced from the underlying mare basalts, without significant Th addition from Th‐rich exotic clasts sourced from evolved lunar lithologies.
A picture of hope: From the perspective of adolescents with cancer—A phenomenological‐visual qualitative study
Authors: Sari Ozturk Cigdem , Kilicarslan Ebru
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the phenomenon of hope in adolescents diagnosed with cancer and examine adolescents' lived experiences of hope. The study was conducted between November 2022 and March 2023. The study used a phenomenological‐visual qualitative research design with 20 adolescents in the pediatric oncology ward. The purposive sampling method was used in the study. Data were collected using “Descriptive Characteristic Form,” “Semi‐structured Interview Form,” “Drawing Technique,” and “Mutual Storytelling Technique”. The adolescents were instructed, “Let us draw our hopes,” and asked to draw pictures. Each adolescent was interviewed about the drawings and asked four semi‐structured questions. Audio recordings of the interviews were made and transcribed. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used in the analysis of the data. Two main themes and four subthemes were identified in the study. Metaphorical and conceptual context was included in the theme of symbolizing and linking hope. Two subthemes, facilitators and barriers, were identified in the main theme of rooting hope. The study sheds light on hope experiences in adolescents receiving cancer treatment and guides healthcare professionals.
Demographics and Emissions: The Life Cycle of Consumption Carbon Intensity
Authors: Basso Henrique S. , Jaimes Richard , Rachedi Omar
Published: May 2024

The consumption carbon intensity – defined as the carbon emissions per unit of consumption – varies with age: it is hump‐shaped over the life cycle, but becomes flatter at high levels of income. We document this novel fact using US household‐level consumption data. This relationship holds not only at the individual level, but also at the aggregate: we leverage information across US states and countries all around the world to show that the carbon intensity of the economy depends on the population age structure. Consequently, policy changes that alter carbon prices affect relatively more middle‐age individuals, and especially so in low‐income economies.
Rituximab‐to‐vaccine interval on SARS‐CoV‐2 immunogenicity in children: The potential role of prior natural infection
Authors: Gualtieri Renato , Yerly Sabine , Garcia‐Tarodo Stephanie , Parvex Paloma , Rock Nathalie , Posfay‐Barbe Klara , Didierlaurent Arnaud M. , Eberhardt Christiane Sigrid , Blanchard‐Rohner Geraldine
Published: May 2024

Background

Treatment with anti‐CD20 antibodies (rituximab) is used in both adults and children to treat various autoimmune and oncological diseases. Rituximab depletes B CD20+ cells and, thereby, antibody response to vaccines. This study aimed to examine the antibody response to mRNA‐based COVID‐19 vaccines in children aged 5–18 years undergoing rituximab treatment compared to healthy matched children.

Methods

Between 31 January and 18 July 2022, we conducted a prospective observational study at the Geneva University Hospitals, enrolling children aged 5–18 years under rituximab treatment who had received two mRNA‐based SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine doses. Controls were healthy volunteers with no significant medical conditions. Exclusion criteria included a recent SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Blood samples were collected at day 60 (±30) and day 270 (±90) after the second vaccination.

Results

The rituximab‐treated group exhibited significantly lower levels of antibodies specific to the anti‐receptor binding domain (RBD) of the SARS‐CoV‐2 spike (S) protein than healthy controls at 60 (±30) days after the second vaccine dose (geometric mean concentration: 868.3 IU/mL in patients and 11,393 IU/mL in controls; p = .008). However, patients with a rituximab‐to‐vaccine interval shorter than 6 months and with evidence of a past infection (based on positive anti‐N antibody levels) had a high level of anti‐RBD antibodies.

Conclusion

A past infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 may induce anti‐RBD‐specific memory B cells that can be re‐activated by SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination, even after rituximab‐induced B‐cell depletion. This suggests that it is possible to vaccinate earlier than 6 months after rituximab to develop a good antibody response, especially in the case of past SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Breeding trends on blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.)
Authors: Guo Liangchuan , Qiao Jinli , Sorokin Artem , Li Jichuan , Han Dongjun , Qin Dong , Huo Junwei
Published: May 2024

Blue honeysuckle, also named as haskap or honeyberry, an emerging fruit worldwide, with the species being Lonicera L., originating from the north hemisphere, exhibits high genetic heterogeneity and abundant genetic variation in fruit and leaf traits. However, there are few papers on the research progress of blue honeysuckle breeding and cultivars. The International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) is an effective plant variety protection system, and blue honeysuckle cultivars from different countries and regions are registered in the UPOV database. In this review, we summarized the origin, domestication and germplasm collection, breeding categories and supporting techniques of blue honeysuckle, and the information on registered blue honeysuckle cultivars was analysed based on the UPOV database. Finally, the paper put forward the challenges of blue honeysuckle in development, breeding direction and perspectives to promote the development of blue honeysuckle.
The particular and diffuse effects of negative interactions on participation: Evidence from responses to police killings
Authors: Drolc Cody A. , Shoub Kelsey
Published: May 2024

The relationship between the public and local government is crucial for the success of government in carrying out its duties. Despite this, the public is not always willing to engage with government. Previous research tells us that negative personal bureaucratic interactions can politically demobilize. However, little is known about whether feedback effects on participation are particular to offending government agencies or similarly felt by other organizations in a community. Building on studies of policy feedback, this study investigates how police killings, a form of community police contact, influence the public's willingness to engage with both local police and other local public services. Negative events, even when not directly experienced, disempower the public and undermine legitimacy, depressing participation. We test the effects of policing killings on participation using both observational data on 911 calls and 311 requests and a survey experiment where we manipulate exposure to a community police killing. We find evidence of decreased participation with local police and local government more broadly, contributing to our understanding of policy feedback, policing, and provision of public services.
Rural Development in the Digital Age: Exploring Information and Communication Technology through Social Inclusion☆
Authors: Green John J.
Published: May 2024

Approaching the interplay between social stability and social change as a complex network of “development pathways” and the routes people and communities take as their “livelihood journeys,” this Rural Sociological Society Presidential Address explores how information and communication technologies (ICTs) influence our capabilities to choose and navigate where to go and how to get there. Access and the literacy and skills needed for effective and safe use of ICTs are increasingly influential factors for livelihoods in the so‐called digital age, impacting wellbeing and resilience. Rural‐focused social scientists can help to inform livelihood journeys, especially by asking questions about the interplay between ICTs and social inclusion to involve often‐overlooked spatial dimensions at the local and regional levels. Doing so will require dialogue, discernment, and active engagement on the topics we explore, the research methods we employ, and incorporation of the experiences, needs, and desires of rural people and places in policies and programs. As a professional association built on diverse scholarly traditions yet rooted in a shared interest for practical application for the benefit of often excluded people and places, the Rural Sociological Society has important roles to play in the digital age.