bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Charting the future: what drives accounting career choices in emerging economies?
Authors: Cuzdriorean Dan Dacian , Fekete Szilveszter , Vladu Alina Beattrice , Boţa-Avram Cristina
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to address the void in the current literature regarding the determinants of career choice in Romania, an emerging economy. The objective is to furnish empirical data on the factors that impact students’ intentions to pursue a career in accounting while adding to the academic discourse on this topic. To accomplish this, the authors use an integrative model of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and social cognitive career theory (SCCT) in this analysis. This study aims to illuminate the factors that motivate students to pursue an accounting career and attain certification.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of accounting students from the largest public university in Romania, as they were readily accessible. The authors used a structured questionnaire to gather data and analyse the responses. To test the model and research hypotheses, the authors used structural equation modelling (SEM) techniques. Given the sample size, the authors opted for partial least squares SEM, which provides greater flexibility in modelling and can estimate complex models.

Findings

This study reveals that two factors, attitude and perceived behavioural control (PBC), play a significant role in shaping the inclination of accounting students towards pursuing a career in this field. The authors also found that the factor of self-evaluating outcome expectations (SEOEs) strongly influences accounting students’ attitudes. Additionally, the study highlights the impact of self-efficacy on both SEOEs and PBC. However, subjective norms and perceived job availability were not found to significantly sway the intention of accounting students towards this career path.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings hold significant implications for individuals invested in the accounting profession, especially in developing nations where the number of skilled professionals is limited. The use of the TPB and SCCT frameworks in the realm of accounting illustrates the paramount influence of attitude on career aspirations. Consequently, professional organisations and academic institutions can showcase the advantages of the profession and highlight its societal value to appeal to a greater number of students. By fostering a positive perception, countering unfavourable beliefs and augmenting SEOEs and self-efficacy, stakeholders can enhance the appeal of accounting as a career path.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to apply the above integrative model in the accounting field while aiming to improve interdisciplinary integration.
Procurement contract risks management and the performance of force account construction projects in Tanzania: does the regulatory framework matter?
Authors: Mwaiseje Shadrack Samwel , Panga Faustine Peter , Mchopa Alban Dismas , Nkuhi Mathias Sylvester
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The construction sector plays a vital role in the economic progress of every nation, including Tanzania. Notwithstanding its significance, the industry experiences poor performance. This study aims to assess the impact of procurement contract risk management on the performance of force account (FA) construction projects, using a regulatory framework as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

The cross-sectional research design was used, and data was collected by using a structured questionnaire. The study employed a sample size of 318 respondents to analyse data by using partial least square structural modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings revealed that supply risk management, procurement internal control system and procurement contract administration influence the performance of FA construction projects. Additionally, the study confirms that the regulatory framework strengthens the relationship between the procurement internal control system and procurement contract administration with the performance of FA construction projects. Therefore, procurement contract risk management, as moderated by the regulatory framework, plays a significant role towards the performance of FA construction projects.

Practical implications

These findings have significant implications for practitioners and policymakers involved in FA construction projects in the public sector, as they highlight the importance of procurement contract risk management in achieving the successful performance of FA construction projects.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the ongoing discussion about the performance of construction projects, especially those under the FA procurement. It also contributes to the literature on public construction projects in developing countries.
A review of taste‐active compounds in meat: Identification, influencing factors, and taste transduction mechanism
Authors: You Zerui , Bai Yilin , Bo Dongdong , Feng Yuqing , Shen Jiameng , Wang Yuanyuan , Li Jing , Bai Yueyu
Published: October 2024

Poultry and livestock meat are important parts of the human diet. As living standards have improved, food taste has become a major influence on consumer quality assessment and meat purchasing choices. There is increasing research interest in meat taste and meat taste‐active compounds, which include free amino acids, flavor nucleotides, taste‐active peptides, organic acids, soluble sugars, and inorganic ions. Taste component research is also an important part of sensory science. A deeper understanding of the meat taste perception mechanism and interactions among different taste compounds will promote the development of meat science and sensory evaluation. This article reviews the main taste compounds in meat, factors influencing their concentrations, and the identification and measurement of taste‐active compounds, as well as summarizing the mechanisms of taste sensing and perception. Finally, the future of scientific taste component evaluation is discussed. This review provides a theoretical basis for research on meat taste and an important reference for the development of the meat industry.
Association of systolic blood pressure variability with cognitive decline in type 2 diabetes: A post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Chen Junmin , Zhao Xuan , Liu Huidan , Wang Kan , Xu Xiaoli , Wang Siyu , Li Mian , Zheng Ruizhi , Zhou Libin , Bi Yufang , Xu Yu
Published: October 2024

Background

We aimed to explore the association between visit‐to‐visit systolic blood pressure variability (BPV) and cognitive function in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We performed a post hoc analysis of the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Memory in Diabetes (ACCORD‐MIND) substudy. A total of 2867 diabetes patients with ≥3 BP measurements between the 4‐ and 20‐month visits were included. Visit‐to‐visit systolic BPV was calculated. Cognitive decline was defined as a Mini‐Mental State Exam (MMSE), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), or Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT) score greater than 1 standard deviation (SD) below the baseline mean, or a Stroop test score more than 1 SD above the baseline mean. The associations of systolic BPV with risks of cognitive decline were examined using Cox proportional hazards models, and with changes in brain magnetic resonance imaging parameters were evaluated using mixed models.

Results

The risk of cognitive decline defined by the DSST score (but not by other scores) increased significantly with systolic BPV quartiles (p for trend = 0.008), and there was a 55% increased risk for BPV quartile 4 versus quartile 1 (hazard ratio = 1.55, 95% confidence interval 1.10–2.19). Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between systolic BPV and change in white matter lesion volume (β = 0.07, 95% CI 0.01–0.13).

Conclusions

A greater visit‐to‐visit systolic BPV was significantly associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline measured by DSST and an increase in white matter lesion volume in patients with type 2 diabetes.

image
Perspectives on oral benzodiazepine use for anxiety in Mohs micrographic surgery: A response to the Australian survey
Authors: Hsieh Ching Ching , Wei Lien‐Chung
Published: October 2024

This letter responds to the recent Australian survey by Harris and Lee (Australas J Dermatol, 2024, doi: 10.1111/ajd.14361) on the use of oral benzodiazepines for anxiety management in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). While commending the authors' efforts, we provide additional perspectives on current practices, recent evidence and safety considerations. We highlight the alignment with U.S. practices, discuss a recent randomized controlled trial supporting diazepam's efficacy and emphasize the importance of non‐pharmacological interventions. The letter also addresses the need for flumazenil availability and calls for standardized guidelines and further research to optimize patient care in MMS.
Co‐CEO Structure and Earnings Smoothing Incentives
Authors: Lee Gun , Shin Jae Eun
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the effects of a co‐CEO structure on earnings smoothing and its implications for the informativeness of earnings. While the consequences of a co‐CEO structure have been relatively underexplored in prior research, existing studies suggest potential benefits, such as higher valuations and stronger internal governance. This paper delves into the specific consequences of a co‐CEO structure, focusing on earnings smoothing practices. Using data from Korean firms, where co‐CEO structures are prevalent, we find that firms with a co‐CEO structure exhibit smoother earnings compared to those with a sole‐CEO structure. However, the informativeness of these smooth earnings is reduced under a co‐CEO structure, suggesting that co‐CEOs engage in earnings smoothing primarily for their own benefit, rather than to provide more information to investors. Additional analyses reveal that co‐CEOs' earnings smoothing leads to adverse consequences for investors, including lower earnings quality, higher costs of capital, increased financial distress, greater credit risk, and higher stock price crash risk. Our study contributes to the literature by highlighting the potential costs associated with co‐CEO structures, particularly in terms of reduced earnings informativeness.
Altered Endometrial Microbiota Profile Is Associated With Poor Endometrial Receptivity of Repeated Implantation Failure
Authors: Zhang Rongxue , Wang Miaomiao , Zhong Jixiang , Xue Huiying
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To gain insight into the endometrial pathophysiology of unexplained repeated implantation failure (RIF), we examined the characteristics of genital tract microbiota and explored the correlation between the microbiota and endometrial receptivity.

Methods

Vaginal secretion (VS) and endometrial biopsy (EB) samples were collected from patients with RIF (RIF group, n = 32) and those with infertility who had achieved pregnancy during their initial embryo transfer cycle (control group, n = 18). 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing and quantitative PCR were performed to characterize the microbiota of the two groups. Spearman's correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between endometrial receptivity markers and endometrial microbiota.

Results

Endometrial microbiota exhibited distinct characteristics from vaginal microbiota, with a higher alpha‐diversity. Alpha‐diversity of the endometrial microbiota was higher in the RIF group than in the control group. Compared with the control group, the RIF group had a significant decrease in endometrial Lactobacillus abundance and an increase in Gardnerella and Acinetobacter abundances. The expression levels of endometrial receptivity markers, including homeobox A11, integrin αvβ3, leukemia inhibitor factor, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, and vascular endothelial growth factor, were lower in the RIF group than in the control group. Moreover, the expression levels of these markers were correlated with endometrial Lactobacillus, Gardnerella, and Acinetobacter abundances.

Conclusion

RIF is characterized by endometrial microbiota dysbiosis and poor endometrial receptivity. Moreover, abnormal endometrial microbiota is associated with impaired endometrial receptivity, which may be a potential cause of unexplained RIF.
Effect of insurance type on Management of Vancouver B Periprosthetic Fractures: length of stay, discharge destination and cost implications
Authors: Le Michael , Murphy Geoffrey T. , Young Annamaria Frangos , Chan Nanette , Constantin Harry , Symes Michael , Adie Sam , Guzman Maurice
Published: October 2024

Background

To assess the effect of private versus public insurance on hospital length of stay, discharge destination, and costs in managing Vancouver B periprosthetic femoral fractures (PFF).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of PFF patients operatively managed at five public trauma centers. The primary outcome was hospital length of stay. Secondary outcomes included discharge destination and costs related to implants and hospital beds.

Results

The study included 195 PFF cases (133 public, 62 private). Private patients had lower ASA scores (2.8 versus 3.1, P = 0.006) and were more likely to come from independent residences (87% versus 74%, P = 0.045). Private patients spent 8 fewer days in the hospital (12 ± 8 versus 20 ± 19 days, P < 0.001) and were more often discharged to rehabilitation (74% versus 48%, P = 0.003). Public hospital costs were higher for public patients ($37 456 versus $25 324, P = 0.005), largely due to longer stays. Implant costs were similar between private and public patients, but patients that underwent revision surgeries increased costs significantly compared to patients that underwent open reduction and internal fixation alone ($6257 versus $3511, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Private insurance was linked to shorter hospital stays and increased discharge to rehabilitation. Public PPF patients incur an average cost of $37 456 for public hospitals, compared to $25 324 for private patients. Delays in public patient rehabilitation access may prolong hospital stays, suggesting a need for alternative care pathways, such as PPF tailored home‐based rehabilitation and support programs.
XBB.1.5‐Adapted COVID‐19 mRNA Vaccines but Not Infections With Previous Omicron Variants Boost Neutralisation Against the SARS‐CoV‐2 JN.1 Variant in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Woelfel Simon , Dütschler Joel , Junker Daniel , König Marius , Graf Nicole , Krieger Claudia , Truniger Samuel , Oikonomou Vasileios , Leinenkugel Georg , Koller Seraina , Metzger‐Peter Katline , Wyss Jacqueline , Krupka Niklas , Frei Nicola ,   STAR SIGN Study Investigators, Albrich Werner C. , Friedrich Matthias , Niess Jan Hendrik , Schneiderhan‐Marra Nicole , Dulovic Alex , Misselwitz Benjamin , Korte Wolfgang , Bürgi Justus J. , Brand Stephan
Published: October 2024

Background

Variant‐adapted COVID‐19 vaccines are recommended for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, many patients rely on pre‐existing immunity by original vaccines or prior infections.

Aim

To assess whether such immunity sufficiently combats the highly immune‐evasive SARS‐CoV‐2 JN.1 variant.

Methods

Utilising two longitudinal cohorts, we evaluated immunity against JN.1 induced by original vaccines (IBD: n = 98; healthy: n = 48), omicron breakthrough infection (IBD: n = 55; healthy: n = 57) or XBB.1.5‐adapted vaccines (IBD: n = 18). Neutralisation and anti‐receptor‐binding domain (RBD) IgG levels against wild‐type SARS‐CoV‐2 and JN.1 were assessed using multiplex immunoassays. Study outcomes were wild‐type and JN.1 neutralisation following three doses of original mRNA vaccines, stratified by immunosuppressive therapy (primary outcome), and JN.1 neutralisation following third‐dose breakthrough infection or a fourth dose of XBB.1.5‐adapted mRNA vaccines (secondary outcomes).

Results

Following original vaccines, JN.1 neutralisation was lower than wild‐type neutralisation in all study groups (healthy, anti‐TNF and non‐anti‐TNF; each p < 0.001); most individuals lacked JN.1 neutralisation (healthy: 97.9%; anti‐TNF: 98.3% and non‐anti‐TNF: 92.3%). Confounder‐adjusted multivariable modelling strongly associated anti‐TNF therapy with low levels of anti‐JN.1‐RBD IgG (fold‐change 0.48 [95% CI 0.39–0.59]). JN.1 neutralisation was similar in patients with or without breakthrough infection (anti‐TNF, non‐anti‐TNF; each p > 0.05); neutralisation failure was 100% despite breakthrough infection. XBB.1.5‐adapted vaccines enhanced JN.1 neutralisation (p < 0.001) and reduced neutralisation failure rates in patients with IBD (94.4% pre‐vaccination vs. 44.4% post‐vaccination; p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Only variant‐adapted vaccines protect against emerging SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. Patients with IBD and healthy individuals without recent vaccination may lack protection against the JN.1 subvariant KP.3 which causes current COVID‐19 surges.
Evaluating stiffness of gastric wall using laser resonance frequency analysis for gastric cancer
Authors: Furube Tasuku , Nakashima Daisuke , Matsuda Satoru , Mikami Katsuhiro , Hatakeyama Takuto , Takeuchi Masashi , Fukuda Kazumasa , Ueno Akihisa , Okita Hajime , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Nakamura Masaya , Nagura Takeo , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: October 2024

Tumor stiffness is drawing attention as a novel axis that is orthogonal to existing parameters such as pathological examination. We developed a new diagnostic method that focuses on differences in stiffness between tumor and normal tissue. This study comprised a clinical application of laser resonance frequency analysis (L‐RFA) for diagnosing gastric cancer. L‐RFA allows for precise and contactless evaluation of tissue stiffness. We used a laser to create vibrations on a sample's surface that were then measured using a vibrometer. The data were averaged and analyzed to enhance accuracy. In the agarose phantom experiments, a clear linear correlation was observed between the Young's modulus of the phantoms (0.34–0.71 MPa) and the summation of normalized vibration peaks (Score) in the 1950–4050 Hz range (R2 = 0.93145). Higher Young's moduli also resulted in lower vibration peaks at the excitation frequency, signal‐to‐noise (S/N) ratios, and harmonic peaks. We also conducted L‐RFA measurements on gastric cancer specimens from two patients who underwent robot‐assisted distal gastrectomy. Our results revealed significant waveform differences between tumor and normal regions, similar to the findings in agarose phantoms, with tumor regions exhibiting lower vibration peaks at the excitation frequency, S/N ratios, and harmonic peaks. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences in the score between normal and tumor regions (p = 0.00354). L‐RFA was able to assess tumor stiffness and holds great promise as a noninvasive diagnostic tool for gastric cancer.
Outbreak of contact allergy to dicyclohexylcarbodiimide in a biotechnology laboratory
Authors: Griguola Linas , Cerniauskas Kestutis , Malinauskiene Laura , Linauskiene Kotryna , Rudyte Justina , Chomiciene Anzelika
Published: October 2024

Background

Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) is known to cause occupational allergic contact dermatitis in biotechnology laboratory workers.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of DCC sensitization among workers of one biosynthesis laboratory and to determine the optimal DCC concentration for patch testing.

Materials and methods

23 laboratory workers frequently exposed to DCC of whom 21 suffered from dermatitis and 11 controls were enrolled into the study. All participants underwent skin patch testing with different concentrations of DCC and other substances used in the work environment. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare results between active and control groups.

Results

Of the 23 workers tested, 56.5% showed positive reactions to DCC. All of them had dermatitis. Morpholine also elicited positive reactions in 26.1% of workers who were all sensitized to DCC. Dimethylformamide and chloroform yielded negative results.

Conclusion

Dicyclohexylcarbodiimide was a major cause of contact dermatitis in the active group indicating an outbreak of contact allergy to DCC in the company necessitating preventive measures. Both DCC 0.1% ac. and DCC 0.05% pet. should both be used for patch testing.
Lessons Learned From Extracorporeal Life Support Practice and Outcomes During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Gill George , O'Connor Michael , Nunnally Mark E. , Combes Alain , Harper Michael , Baran David , Avila Mary , Pisani Barbara , Copeland Hannah , Nurok Michael
Published: October 2024

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is increasingly being used to support patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure and cardiogenic shock. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, consensus guidance recommended extracorporeal life support for patients with COVID‐19‐related cardiopulmonary disease refractory to optimal conventional therapy, prompting a substantial expansion in the use of this support modality. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was particularly integral to the bridging of COVID‐19 patients to heart or lung transplantation. Limited human and physical resources precluded widespread utilization of mechanical support during the COVID‐19 pandemic, necessitating careful patient selection and optimal management by expert healthcare teams for judicious extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use. This review outlines the evidence supporting the use of extracorporeal life support in COVID‐19, describes the practice and outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for COVID‐19‐related respiratory failure and cardiogenic shock, and proposes lessons learned for the implementation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a bridge to transplantation in future public health emergencies.
Conservation Corridors With Many Small Waterbodies Support Dragonfly Functional Diversity Across a Transformed Landscape Mosaic
Authors: Deacon Charl , Samways Michael J. , Pryke James S.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Human activities pose many challenges to freshwater biodiversity. Among these, is landscape transformation, such as conversion of natural grassland to plantation forestry, impacting both terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity. Functional diversity measures provide substantial information on current and emerging impacts on biological communities, and aid conservation decisions relative to anthropogenic impacts. We determined (1) environmental similarities among 10 freshwater biotope types; (2) whether freshwater biotopes in conservation corridor networks support equal levels of functional richness and divergence compared with an extensive neighbouring protected area; (3) whether certain biotopes are more important for maintaining functional richness and divergence than others; and (4) whether associations between traits and biotope types could be identified.

Location

The northeastern coastal region of South Africa.

Methods

Using dragonflies as model organisms, and data from 140 freshwater lotic and lentic sites, we investigated the distribution of dragonfly traits across a plantation forestry‐natural grassland landscape mosaic with a range of biotope types.

Results

Lake sites were different in their environmental conditions compared with the other biotopes. Environmental conditions were variable among the other biotope types and were difficult to distinguish. Freshwater biotopes in the conservation corridors supported equal levels of functional richness and divergence compared with those in the protected area. Overall, dragonfly functional richness and divergence were low at lake sites and wallows, while all other biotopes supported high levels of functional richness and divergence. Trait associations were complex across the waterscape and driven by habitat selection, flight behaviour and ecological sensitivity.

Main Conclusions

Maintaining a mosaic of small lentic and lotic habitats would best support dragonfly conservation in this transformed landscape. A combination of biotopes offers a wide range of environmental conditions essential for conserving the full range of dragonfly traits and species across the region.
Body weight variability as a predictor of cardiovascular outcomes in type 1 diabetes: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Prattichizzo Francesco , Veronesi Valentina , Rigoni Marta , La Grotta Rosalba , Pellegrini Valeria , Lucisano Giuseppe , Nicolucci Antonio , Berra Cesare Celeste , Carlsen Hanne Krage , Eliasson Björn , Muti Paola , Ceriello Antonio
Published: October 2024

Aim

Intraindividual body weight variability (BWV), that is, the degree of weight fluctuations over time, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in multiple settings. The impact of BWV on cardiovascular risk in type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains unclear, despite the issues relative to weight management in individuals with this condition.

Materials and methods

Using data from the Swedish National Diabetes Register, we identified individuals with T1D and without CVD at baseline with at least three measurements of body weight taken over three consecutive years. We estimated BWV as quartiles of the standard deviation of weight measures and explored its longitudinal association with the incidence of CVD during a 12.7 ± 4.6 year follow‐up through adjusted Cox regression models. The primary endpoint was the composite of nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke and all‐cause mortality. We modelled the function of risk in relation to the magnitude of BWV, testing also whether weight trends, that is, increasing, stable or decreasing, age, sex and glycaemic control modified the association between BWV and the outcome.

Results

Among the 36 333 individuals with T1D in the register, we identified 19 373 individuals with at least three measures of body weight and without CVD at baseline. Participants with the highest BWV had a 42% increased risk of reaching the primary endpoint compared to those with the lowest BWV (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.24–1.62). In addition, high BWV was significantly associated with a 51% increased risk of all‐cause mortality (HR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.28–1.78), a 37% increased risk of peripheral artery disease (HR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.06–1.77) and a 55% increased risk of hospitalization for heart failure (HR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.20–2.01). BWV showed a quasi‐linear association with the primary endpoint. No interaction was observed when comparing subgroups for weight trends, sex or degree of glycaemic control. In the subgroup of elderly individuals, the association of BWV with the primary endpoint was no longer significant.

Conclusions

High BWV is associated with an increased risk of CVD and all‐cause mortality in individuals with T1D, independently of canonical risk factors. Weight trends, sex and glycaemic control do not modify such association while older age attenuates it.
Three‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Assessment of Right Ventricular Function in Chronic Coronary Syndrome Patients After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Hu WenShu , Zhou Chang , Sun Heng
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess alterations in right ventricular (RV) function following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with chronic coronary syndromes utilizing three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3D‐STE).

Methods

A prospective study was conducted involving 136 patients diagnosed with chronic coronary syndromes undergoing PCI, constituting the study group, alongside 110 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers serving as the control group. Echocardiographic evaluations, including both conventional and three‐dimensional assessments, were performed on all study participants at 1‐week, 6, and 12 months post‐PCI. Parameters such as tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) were derived from conventional echocardiography, while tricuspid lateral annular systolic velocity (S') was measured via tissue Doppler imaging. 3D‐STE was utilized to quantify metrics including right ventricular fractional area change (RVFAC), right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS), right ventricular global longitudinal strain (RVGLS), right ventricular stroke volume (RVSV), and right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF).

Results

TAPSE, S', RVFAC, RVFWLS, RVGLS, RVSV, and RVEF exhibited significant increases from 1‐week to 6 months post‐PCI (p < 0.05). However, from 6 to 12 months post‐PCI, RVFAC, RVGLS, RVSV, and RVEF demonstrated no notable changes (p > 0.05). Meanwhile, TAPSE, S', and RVFWLS sustained significant elevations: TAPSE (19.63 ± 3.253% to 22.603 ± 2.885%, p < 0.001); S' (10.57 ± 2.643 to 12.61 ± 2.189 cm/s, p < 0.001); RVFWLS (18.64 ± 2.745% to 19.926 ± 3.291%, p = 0.002). At 12 months post‐PCI, S', RVFAC, RVGLS, RVSV, and RVEF remained lower than those of the healthy control group, but the differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). However, RVFWLS was significantly lower compared to the healthy control group (19.926 ± 3.291% vs. 22.10 ± 1.994%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Following PCI, right ventricular systolic function in patients with chronic coronary syndromes improves significantly over time. However, even at the 12‐month post‐PCI mark, RVFWLS remains lower than that of the control group. Notably, 3D‐STE emerges as a noninvasive method for quantifying right ventricular systolic function post‐PCI in chronic coronary syndrome patients.
Comparative assessment of phenotypic markers in patients with chronic inflammation: Differences on Bifidobacterium concerning liver status
Authors: Chero‐Sandoval Lourdes , Higuera‐Gómez Andrea , Martínez‐Urbistondo María , Castejón Raquel , Mellor‐Pita Susana , Moreno‐Torres Víctor , de Luis Daniel , Cuevas‐Sierra Amanda , Martínez J. Alfredo
Published: October 2024

Background

The relationship between systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and low‐grade metabolic inflammation (MI) with the microbiota is crucial for understanding the pathogenesis of these diseases and developing effective therapeutic interventions. In this context, it has been observed that the gut microbiota plays a key role in the immune regulation and inflammation contributing to the exacerbation through inflammatory mediators. This research aimed to describe similarities/differences in anthropometric, biochemical, inflammatory, and hepatic markers as well as to examine the putative role of gut microbiota concerning two inflammatory conditions: SLE and MI.

Methods

Data were obtained from a cohort comprising adults with SLE and MI. Faecal samples were determined by 16S technique. Statistical analyses compared anthropometric and clinical variables, and LEfSe and MetagenomeSeq were used for metagenomic data. An interaction analysis was fitted to investigate associations of microbiota with fatty liver index (FLI) depending on the inflammatory condition.

Results

Participants with low‐grade MI showed worse values in anthropometry and biochemicals compared with patients with SLE. The liver profile of patients with MI was unhealthier, while no relevant differences were found in most of the inflammatory markers between groups. LEfSe analysis revealed an overrepresentation of Bifidobacteriaceae family in SLE group. An interactive association between gut Bifidobacterium abundance and type of disease was identified for FLI values, suggesting an effect modification of the gut microbiota concerning liver markers depending on the inflammatory condition.

Conclusion

This study found phenotypical and microbial similarities and disparities between these two inflammatory conditions, evidenced in clinical and hepatic markers, and showed the interactive interplay between gut Bifidobacterium and liver health (measured by FLI) that occur in a different manner depending on the type of inflammatory disease. These results underscore the importance of personalized approaches and individual microbiota in the screening of different inflammatory situations, considering unique hepatic and microbiota profiles.
Neural encoding of melodic expectations in music across EEG frequency bands
Authors: Galeano‐Otálvaro Juan‐Daniel , Martorell Jordi , Meyer Lars , Titone Lorenzo
Published: October 2024

The human brain tracks regularities in the environment and extrapolates these to predict future events. Prior work on music cognition suggests that low‐frequency (1–8 Hz) brain activity encodes melodic predictions beyond the stimulus acoustics. Building on this work, we aimed to disentangle the frequency‐specific neural dynamics linked to melodic prediction uncertainty (modelled as entropy) and prediction error (modelled as surprisal) for temporal (note onset) and content (note pitch) information. By using multivariate temporal response function (TRF) models, we re‐analysed the electroencephalogram (EEG) from 20 subjects (10 musicians) who listened to Western tonal music. Our results show that melodic expectation metrics improve the EEG reconstruction accuracy in all frequency bands below the gamma range (< 30 Hz). Crucially, we found that entropy contributed more strongly to the reconstruction accuracy enhancement compared to surprisal in all frequency bands. Additionally, we found that the encoding of temporal, but not content, information metrics was not limited to low frequencies, rather it extended to higher frequencies (> 8 Hz). An analysis of the TRF weights revealed that the temporal predictability of a note (entropy of note onset) may be encoded in the delta‐ (1–4 Hz) and beta‐band (12–30 Hz) brain activity prior to the stimulus, suggesting that these frequency bands associate with temporal predictions. Strikingly, we also revealed that melodic expectations selectively enhanced EEG reconstruction accuracy in the beta band for musicians, and in the alpha band (8–12 Hz) for non‐musicians, suggesting that musical expertise influences the neural dynamics underlying predictive processing in music cognition.
Accumulated seizure burden predicts neurodevelopmental outcome at 36 months of age in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Ihnen S. Katie Z. , Alperin Samuel , Capal Jamie K. , Cohen Alexander L. , Peters Jurriaan M. , Bebin E. Martina , Northrup Hope A. , Sahin Mustafa , Krueger Darcy A. ,   the TACERN Study Group
Published: October 2024

Objective

Epilepsy and intellectual disability are common in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Although early life seizures and intellectual disability are known to be correlated in TSC, the differential effects of age at seizure onset and accumulated seizure burden on development remain unclear.

Methods

Daily seizure diaries, serial neurodevelopmental testing, and brain magnetic resonance imaging were analyzed for 129 TSC patients followed from 0 to 36 months. We used machine learning to identify subgroups of patients based on neurodevelopmental test scores at 36 months of age and assessed the stability of those subgroups at 12 months. We tested the ability of candidate biomarkers to predict 36‐month neurodevelopmental subgroup using univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Candidate biomarkers included age at seizure onset, accumulated seizure burden, tuber volume, sex, and earlier neurodevelopmental test scores.

Results

Patients clustered into two neurodevelopmental subgroups at 36 months of age, higher and lower scoring. Subgroup was mostly (75%) the same at 12 months. Significant univariable effects on subgroup were seen only for accumulated seizure burden (largest effect), earlier test scores, and tuber volume. Neither age at seizure onset nor sex significantly distinguished 36‐month subgroups, although for girls but not boys there was a significant effect of age at seizure onset. In the multivariable model, accumulated seizure burden and earlier test scores together predicted 36‐month neurodevelopmental group with 82% accuracy and an area under the curve of .86.

Significance

These results untangle the contributions of age at seizure onset and accumulated seizure burden to neurodevelopmental outcomes in young children with TSC. Accumulated seizure burden, rather than the age at seizure onset, most accurately predicts neurodevelopmental outcome at 36 months of age. These results emphasize the need to manage seizures aggressively during the first 3 years of life for patients with TSC, not only to promote seizure control but to optimize cognitive function.
TOPS: A Framework for Trusted Opinion Analysis of Product Reviews Using Hybrid Deep Learning Based D2CL Filter
Authors: Balaji T. K. , Bablani Annushree , Sreeja S. R. , Misra Hemant
Published: October 2024

The rapid growth of online product reviews has made it increasingly challenging for consumers to make informed purchase decisions. However, the abundance of reviews, including fake or augmented and sarcastic reviews, poses a challenge for consumers. To address this challenge, this paper introduces the TOPS (Trusted Opinion analysis of Product reviewS) framework, a novel approach that leverages a hybrid deep learning‐based D2CL (Dual Deep leaning based cleaning) filter to enhance the reliability of online reviews. The proposed methodology employs the D2CL filter to identify and eliminate fake and sarcastic reviews, ensuring that the consolidated sentiment analysis provides users with trustworthy opinions. The framework is equipped with the R‐mGRU, a hybrid deep learning model specifically designed to tackle the nuances of product reviews. This model has demonstrated impressive accuracy rates, achieving 89%, 91%, and 94% for fake, sarcasm, and sentiment analysis tasks, respectively. The TOPS framework makes a significant contribution to improving the overall quality and authenticity of product reviews, empowering consumers with more reliable information for informed decision‐making in online shopping scenarios.
The Crack Growth Resistance of Polymeric Cellular Materials Studied With a Quasi‐Brittle Approach
Authors: Wetta Maxime , Kopp Jean‐Benoit , Fournier Vincent , Le Barbenchon Louise , Viot Philippe , Morel Stéphane
Published: October 2024

This research delves into the fracture analysis of cellular thermosetting polymers using Mode I fracture tests with a compact tension geometry subjected to both monotonic and cyclic loadings. The equivalent linear elastic fracture mechanics concept effectively described crack initiation and propagation. Numerical simulations estimated the equivalent linear elastic crack length aligning with experimental measurements. Resistance curves revealed a transient regime followed by a self‐similar regime with relatively constant fracture energy, typical of quasi‐brittle materials. Finally, the fracture energy evolution correlated with macroscopic density evolution exhibiting a linear relationship relaying the influence of microstructure to a second order.
Synergistic Effects of Irrigation and Nitrogen Fertilisation on Maize Photosynthetic Performance and Yield of Rainfed Systems in Drought‐Prone Environments
Authors: Huang Ya , Gao Fei , Khan Rayyan , Ali Shahid , Zhou Xun Bo
Published: October 2024

Maize, a cereal crop of global significance, encounters cultivation challenges in the subtropical regions of Guangxi, mainly due to variable rainfall and low soil fertility, exacerbating the effects of drought. This study evaluated the effects of irrigation and nitrogen fertilisation on overcoming these challenges and improving maize growth and yield. Between 2020 and 2021, a split‐plot experiment was conducted. The main plots were assigned to two irrigation treatments: irrigated and rainfed. Within each main plot, subplots were treated with different nitrogen levels (0, 150, 200, 250 and 300 kg ha−1). The results showed that nitrogen levels and water regime significantly impacted several key factors, including the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs), transpiration rate (Tr), intercellular carbon dioxide concentration (Ci), photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), carbon‐metabolising enzymes and total carbon (TC) content accumulation. Under drought‐like rainfed conditions, the application of nitrogen, RN300 (rainfed application nitrogen 300 kg ha−1), IN250 (irrigated application nitrogen 250 kg ha−1) significantly enhanced the Pn (10.0%), Tr (3.17%), Ci (3.41%) and Gs (2.6%). Additionally, PAR was significantly influenced by the water regime and nitrogen levels. Under IN250, the capture ratio (Ca) increased (2.36%), while the penetration ratio (Pe) and reflectance ratio (Re) decreased by 13.12% and 46.36%, respectively, compared to RN300. The levels of carbon metabolism enzymes (sucrose phosphate synthase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase) and the TC content were higher under RN300 compared to IN250; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Path analysis revealed that thousand kernel weight had the most significant impact on yield under both water regimes. The effect was stronger under irrigated conditions, with a path coefficient of 0.647, compared to 0.459 under rainfed conditions. Correlation analysis indicated that plant height (0.938), stem diameter (0.906), ear diameter (0.928) and ear length (0.803) were positively correlated with nitrogen levels. In conclusion, maize under IN250 exhibited superior photosynthetic performance and carbon accumulation. This suggests that balanced irrigation and nitrogen management can effectively mitigate the adverse impacts of drought on maize, optimising growth and yield sustainably.
Order evolution from a high‐entropy matrix: Understanding and predicting paths to low‐temperature equilibrium
Authors: Almishal Saeed S. I. , Miao Leixin , Tan Yueze , Kotsonis George N. , Sivak Jacob T. , Alem Nasim , Chen Long‐Qing , Crespi Vincent H. , Dabo Ismaila , Rost Christina M. , Sinnott Susan B. , Maria Jon‐Paul
Published: October 2024

Interest in high‐entropy inorganic compounds originates from their ability to stabilize cations and anions in local environments that rarely occur at standard temperature and pressure. This leads to new crystalline phases in many‐cation formulations with structures and properties that depart from conventional trends. The highest‐entropy homogeneous and random solid solution is a parent structure from which a continuum of lower‐entropy offspring can originate by adopting chemical and/or structural order. This report demonstrates how synthesis conditions, thermal history, and elastic and chemical boundary conditions conspire to regulate this process in Mg0.2Co0.2Ni0.2Cu0.2Zn0.2O, during which coherent CuO nanotweeds and spinel nanocuboids evolve. We do so by combining structured synthesis routes, atomic‐resolution microscopy and spectroscopy, density functional theory, and a phase field modeling framework that accurately predicts the emergent structure and local chemistry. This establishes a framework to appreciate, understand, and predict the macrostate spectrum available to a high‐entropy system that is critical to rationalizing property engineering opportunities.
The Pedagogical Power of Paper
Authors: Rodgers Suzanne
Published: October 2024

In this research, I explore the potential of a material‐led, embodied pedagogical approach to cultivate diverse modes of thinking, knowing and becoming within a pre‐GCSE curriculum. Drawing from my experiences as both an artist and educator, I acknowledge the transformative power inherent in recognising the agency of all forms of matter, whether human or non‐human. Through the implementation of a project titled ‘To Play,’ which utilises paper as a primary pedagogical tool, I engaged Year 9 Art and Design students. Qualitative data collected over a six‐week period underpins the analysis, with a particular emphasis on understanding students' experiences with material‐led processes. The findings highlight the potential of material‐led pedagogies to empower students and challenge anthropocentric perspectives, offering valuable insights for enhancing pre‐GCSE art education and harnessing the educational potential of materials. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse in art education by emphasising the importance of embodied, experiential learning approaches that prioritise creativity, exploration and critical engagement with the world around us.
Proteome of Clothianidin Exposed Honey Bees Reveals a Possible Mechanism Behind Impairment of Sucrose Responsiveness
Authors: Tsvetkov Nadejda , Moon Kyung‐Mee , Foster Leonard J.
Published: October 2024

Neonicotinoids (NNIs) are the most commonly used insecticides in the world and clothianidin, a type of NNI, is commonly found in honey bee collected pollen. Clothianidin has several negative effects on honey bee health and behaviour, but whether and how it might impact learning and memory remains unclear. Therefore, we exposed honey bee workers to a field‐realistic oral dose of clothianidin for 7 days to assess their sugar responsiveness, and olfactory learning and memory using the proboscis extension response paradigm. Sugar responsiveness impacts important colony‐level traits, such as onset of foraging, that help maintain colony homeostasis as well as impacts learning and memory. We then measured how clothianidin alters protein expression in the brain in an effort to understand the mechanism(s) of clothianidin's effects. Clothianidin‐exposed bees had impaired sugar responsiveness, but no effect was seen on learning and memory. We identified 5069 protein groups and showed that the exposed bees had fewer detectable proteins. The exposed bees also had fewer mitochondrial respiration proteins, as well as reduced levels of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor α7 (nAChRα7) subunit (one of the targets of clothianidin) and reduced levels of acetylcholinesterase and acetylcholinesterase‐2 levels. In the exposed bees, the levels of nAChRα7 subunit positively correlated with sugar responsiveness, providing evidence for a possible mechanical explanation.
Registered Nurses' Familiarity With Delegation Standards and Confidence Delegating to Unlicenced Care and Support Workers: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Wilson Nathan J. , Pracilio Amy , Morphet Julia , Buckley Thomas , Trollor Julian N. , Cashin Andrew
Published: October 2024

Aim

To survey registered nurses' familiarity with delegation standards and confidence to delegate to unlicenced workers within their practice.

Design

Cross‐sectional exploratory survey design.

Methods

The survey focused on Australian registered nurses (n = 420). Initial descriptive analysis was undertaken. Additionally, inferential analysis was undertaken between two independent variables focused on familiarity of delegation policy, and confidence to delegate, and several demographic and workplace variables. Stepwise linear regression was undertaken to determine predictors of the two delegation variables. The cross‐sectional study was undertaken according to the STROBE reporting checklist.

Results

The majority of respondents were somewhat familiar, or not familiar at all with delegation standards. This pattern was followed for results relevant to confidence delegating to unlicenced workers. Nurses working in adult acute, intensive care and emergency department reported the lowest levels of familiarity with delegation. Additionally, intensive care nurses were significantly less likely to feel very confident delegating to unlicenced support workers. Stepwise regression revealed identifying as male, and working in the public sector were less likely to be confident delegating. Nurses working in the acute setting and public sector were less familiar with delegation standards.

Conclusion

The findings of this study highlight the nuanced nature of delegation to unlicenced workers in Australian nursing settings, with nurses from certain contexts being far less likely to be familiar with or confident undertaking the practice.

Implications for Clinical Practice

The findings of this study have significant implications to increase understanding of nurses diverse contexts of practice and how delegation standards might not be implemented in practice in a confident manner.