bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pomegranate's (Punica granatum L.) fruit quality and nutrient content are influenced by soil fraction × root architecture interaction
Authors: Muradoğlu Ferhad , Güler Emrah , Akkuş Gökhan , Başak İbrahim , Fawole Olaniyi Amos
Published: January 2024

Among the most important factors influencing plant nutrient uptake and water access are soil fraction and root architecture. However, little is known about how soil fraction × root architecture interaction affects woody plants. This study considered the differentiation of soil fertility parameters on layers through the root zone of two different soils and the quality and nutrient responses of three newly bred pomegranate varieties to soil fractions based on root architecture in clay and clay loam orchards. According to the findings, increasing clay content in the deeper layers has a negative impact on soil fertility, organic matter, phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). In clayey conditions, pomegranate varieties yielded lower in a range of 2.74% to 6.10% and significantly lower macro and micronutrient insertion. Conversely, the shallow‐rooted variety accumulated significantly more boron (B) and P and set 50% more fruits in the clayey orchards. Soil fractions × root architecture significantly altered fruit quality characteristics, nutrient ingredients, and their relationships supported by a relatively low linear relationship in the Mantel test (r = 0.42). This study suggests that pomegranate tree responses to soil fractions are determined by root architecture. A proper approach to obtaining high‐quality and nutritionally fortified pomegranates will incorporate appropriate cultivation techniques, such as suitable fertigation regime regulation, harvest date optimization, and soil organic matter enrichment, to provide uniform nutrient uptake based on the soil type and variety's root architecture.
Variability and patterns in children's media use and links with language development
Authors: Kucker Sarah C. , Perry Lynn K. , Barr Rachel
Published: January 2024

Aim

Media use is widespread and rising, but how often and for what purpose young children use media varies, which has differential impacts on development. Yet little work has measured how and why children under 36 months use digital media or media's consequences for language.

Methods

The current study measures how and why 17‐ to 30‐month‐old children use digital media and associations with their language abilities. The amount of use, type of activity and caregiver reasons for children's media use were then compared to the child's vocabulary and mean length of utterance.

Results

About 17‐ to 30‐month‐old children are primarily exposed to TV/videos over other media forms, which are often used to occupy children. Video time (but not other activities) negatively predicts children's language. The negative impact of videos on vocabulary persists regardless of the reason for use, however, the effect of videos on expressive language may be tempered when videos are used for education or connecting.

Conclusion

Children under 36 months are using digital media at high rates. What they are doing and why they use media is critical to predict the effect it might have on language development. Further research and anticipatory guidance on the consequences of videos are needed.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis: Risk of gastric cancer in patients with first‐degree relatives with gastric cancer
Authors: Ligato Irene , Dottori Ludovica , Sbarigia Caterina , Dilaghi Emanuele , Annibale Bruno , Lahner Edith , Esposito Gianluca
Published: January 2024

Background

Gastric cancer ranks fourth in terms of global cancer‐related deaths. Timely identification of high‐risk populations is crucial to reduce mortality. Although a family history of gastric cancer increases risk, European and British guidelines report weak recommendations and low‐quality evidence about the management of these patients.

Aim

To quantify the association in case–control studies of patients with gastric cancer with first‐degree relatives with gastric cancer compared to those who do not.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of case–control studies up to November 2023. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. The heterogeneity of effects across studies was quantified by I2. We calculated odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using random effects models.

Results

We included 30 studies in the systematic review. In all studies, a first‐degree family history of gastric cancer represented a risk factor for gastric cancer. We included 21 studies on the risk of gastric cancer. There was a significantly increased association between gastric cancer and having first‐degree relative(s) with gastric cancer, but with significant heterogeneity among studies (OR = 2.92; 95% CI 2.402–3.552; p < 0.001; I2 = 81.85%; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis highlights the relevance of patients' family history of gastric cancer and the importance of this risk factor for the early detection of neoplastic conditions.
Personalizing real‐world problems: Posing own problems increases self‐efficacy expectations, intrinsic value, attainment value, and utility value
Authors: Schoenherr Johanna
Published: January 2024

Background

Real‐world problems are important in math instruction, but they do not necessarily trigger students' task motivation. Personalizing real‐world problems by (1) matching problems to students' shared living environment (context personalization) and (2) asking students to pose their own problems (active personalization) might be two interventions to increase students' task motivation.

Aim

In the current study, we investigated the effects of context personalization and active personalization on students' self‐efficacy expectations, intrinsic value, attainment value, utility value, and cost.

Sample

The participants were 28 fifth‐ and sixth‐grade students who voluntarily took part in a six‐month afterschool program in which they posed problems with the aim of creating a math walk in their hometown.

Method

Using a within‐subjects design, at the end of the afterschool program, the students rated their self‐efficacy expectations and task values for four self‐developed problems associated with their hometown, four peer‐developed problems associated with their hometown, and four instructor‐provided problems associated with unfamiliar locations.

Results

Students reported higher self‐efficacy expectations, intrinsic value, attainment value, and utility value for active‐personalized than non‐personalized problems. To a lesser extent, context personalization promoted intrinsic value and attainment value. No effect was found for cost.

Conclusions

Active personalization (i.e. asking students to pose their own real‐world problems) is suited to enhance students' task motivation, specifically their self‐efficacy expectations, intrinsic value, attainment value, and utility value. Context personalization still boosts students' intrinsic value and attainment value. Implementation in classroom instruction is discussed.
Arsenic‐induced neurotoxicity in patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia
Authors: Loh Zoe , Ashby Michael , Van Veldhuizen Ellie , Li Wenlong , Chee Ashlyn , Aung Winpa , Lavrukhina Yelena , Mason George , Pelly Tenille , Nedumannil Rithin , Kosciejew Serena , Mokoonlall Mridula , Lim Jonathan , Calov Georgina , Butler Llewyn , Hillebrand Paulina , Beekman Ashley , Rathnasekara Greasha Kalani , Raj Sonia , Zhang Cathey , Yao Yao , Iland Harry , Grigg Andrew
Published: January 2024

Arsenic trioxide is an essential component of therapy for acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) and is currently dosed on actual body weight with no upper limit. Arsenic‐induced neurotoxicity is a well‐recognised complication; however, there is uncertainty about its relationship to arsenic dose and obesity. We conducted a large multicentre retrospective study of 487 patients with APL treated with arsenic‐based therapy across 23 sites in Australia from 2008 to 2023. The primary outcome was incidence of neurotoxicity, and secondary outcomes included relationship of neurotoxicity to obesity and cumulative arsenic dose. Any‐grade neurotoxicity occurred in 113 (23%) patients, predominantly peripheral neuropathy (91%). Most events were grade 1–2 severity (85%), with grade 3 events in 12% and grade 4–5 in 3%. The incidence of neurotoxicity increased with BMI (non‐obese: 16%, obesity class I: 25%, obesity class II–III: 41%; p < 0.001). On univariable analysis, obesity class I (OR 1.81, p = 0.036), obesity class II–III (OR 3.93, p < 0.001), weight >100 kg (OR 2.72, p < 0.001), daily arsenic trioxide dose >15 mg (OR 5.05, p < 0.001) and cumulative induction dose >500 mg (OR 3.95, p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with neurotoxicity. Obesity class II–III and induction dose >500 mg remained significant on multivariable analysis. Our study highlights the strong association between BMI, arsenic trioxide dose and neurotoxicity. Pre‐emptive dose reductions should be considered for obese patients receiving high doses of arsenic.
An exploratory study of “large‐n” detrital zircon geochronology of the Book Cliffs, UT via rapid (3 s/analysis) U–Pb dating
Authors: Sundell Kurt E. , Gehrels George E. , D. Blum Michael , Saylor Joel E. , Pecha Mark E. , Hundley Bridget P.
Published: January 2024

Detrital zircon (DZ) U–Pb geochronology has improved the way geologists approach questions of sediment provenance and stratigraphic age. However, there is debate about what constitutes an appropriate sample size (i.e., the number of dates in a DZ sample, n), which depends on project objectives, sample complexity, and, critically, analytical budget. Additionally, there is ongoing concern about bias introduced by zircon grain size. We tested a recently developed rapid (3 s/analysis) data acquisition method by multicollector laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) that incorporates an automated selection routine and calculates two‐dimensional grain geometry from polished sample surfaces. Eleven samples were analysed from below and above the Late Cretaceous (Campanian) basal Castlegate unconformity of the Book Cliffs, Utah, in a down‐depositional‐dip transect including Price, Horse, Tusher, and Thompson canyons. 12,448 new concordant dates were generated during two measurement sessions. Results are consistent with recent studies suggesting there is no major provenance change and little time (1–2 Myr) represented across the unconformity. Grain size and sample size both exert a strong control on sample dissimilarity. Age distributions constructed from subsamples of large grains are systematically less similar to whole samples; age distributions composed of small grains are overall more similar to whole samples. As such, North American sediment sources that produce large grains such as the Grenville and Yavapi‐Mazatzal belts can bias age distributions if only large grains are analysed. A sample size of n = 100 is inadequate for characterizing age distributions as complex as those of the Book Cliffs, whereas a sample size of n = 300 provides good characterization. Sample size of n ≈ 1000 or more is unnecessary unless project objectives include scanning for subordinate age groups, such as when identifying the youngest grains for calculating a maximum depositional age (MDA). Dates used in MDA calculations acquired with rapid acquisition are best re‐analysed with longer LA‐ICP‐MS acquisition methods or isotope dilution thermal ionization mass spectrometry for increased accuracy and precision. We include new MATLAB code and open‐source software programs, DZpick and DZmda, for automated spot picking and calculating MDAs.
Middle Miocene volcanic flare up preceding and synchronous with the Langhian/Serravallian sea‐level decline in the North Pannonian Basin: Insights from 40Ar/39Ar dating, geo‐seismic analysis and 3D visualization of the subterranean Kráľová stratovolcano
Authors: Rybár Samuel , Šarinová Katarína , Jourdan Fred , Mayers Celia , Sliva Ľubomír
Published: January 2024

The Pannonian Basin System originated from the collision of the African and European tectonic plates, followed by the Miocene extensional collapse that led to the development of a back‐arc basins. Accurate dating is essential to comprehend the tectono‐volcanic evolution of the region, particularly in the under‐studied Danube Basin. Single‐grain 40Ar/39Ar dating has revealed that volcanic activity in the Danube Basin commenced around 14.1 million years ago, aligning with previous biostratigraphic and radioisotope data from nearby volcanic fields. The initial Middle Miocene pyroclastic deposits were generated by intermediate high K calc‐alkaline magmas, contributing significantly to the deposition of thick layers of fine vitric tuffs. The timing and chemistry of the volcanism are consistent with the Badenian rift phase in the Middle Miocene within the Carpathian–Pannonian region, suggesting an intraplate back‐arc volcanic environment. Three‐dimensional imaging has exposed the buried Kráľová stratovolcano, revealing its impressive scale with a thickness between 2620 and 5000 m and a base diameter of 18–30 km. Such dimensions place it among the ranks of the world's largest stratovolcanoes, indicating its substantial impact on the evolution of the Carpathian–Pannonian area. The complex formation history of the stratovolcano points to multiple phases of growth. Furthermore, the basin controlling Mojmírovce‐Rába fault's intersection with the stratovolcano implies that fault activity was subsequent to the volcanic activity, being younger than 14.1 million years. Regional age data consistently indicates that volcanic activity in the Danube Basin reached its zenith just prior to and during the lower/upper Badenian sea‐level fall (Langhian/Serravallian). K‐metasomatism is unique to the stratovolcanic structures and is not observed in the wider regional setting. This study supports the notion of an intricate, interconnected subterranean intrusive system within the stratovolcano, underscoring the complex interplay between geological structures and volcanic processes.
Treatment effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg on health‐related quality of life from STEP 1 SF‐6D derived from SF‐36 with Australian weights
Authors: Kral Pavol , Allen Felicity Liza , Larsen Sara , Holst‐Hansen Thomas , Olivieri Anamaria‐Vera , Manton Andrew
Published: January 2024

Aim

This study aimed to determine the comparative treatment effects of semaglutide 2.4 mg and placebo on health utility index scores [6‐dimension short‐form survey (SF‐6D)] with Australian weights in full analysis set (FAS) and in post‐hoc subgroups of the STEP 1 trial, defined according to different body mass index (BMI) cut‐off points and presence of comorbidities at baseline. The study also explored the correlation between baseline BMI and SF‐6D in the STEP 1 trial population.

Methods

The 36‐item SF survey (SF‐36) scores from STEP 1 were mapped to SF‐6D health states and converted to utility index scores using an Australian valuation algorithm. The change from baseline in SF‐6D utility score (95% confidence intervals) was compared between semaglutide 2.4 mg and placebo at week 68 using the mixed model for repeated measurements approach. The relationship between utility scores and BMI at baseline was assessed by multiple linear regression analyses, controlling for demographic and clinical parameters.

Results

The estimated mean treatment difference in SF‐6D utility score favoured semaglutide 2.4 mg, and, at week 68, it was 0.057 (0.038‐0.076) for the FAS. A greater treatment effect was noted in subgroups with presence of symptomatic comorbidities, i.e. 0.077 (0.027‐0.128) to 0.105 (0.030‐0.179) at week 68. A 1‐unit increase in BMI was associated with a utility loss of 0.0075 (−0.0089 to −0.0062) for the FAS population, while controlling for demographic and clinical parameters.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study showing statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in SF‐6D utility scores with weight‐loss pharmacotherapy in Australia.
Left atrial volume index as a predictor for left atrial appendage thrombus in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation receiving appropriate oral anticoagulation therapy: A prospective multi‐center study
Authors: Shiraki Hiroaki , Tsunamoto Hiroshi , Onishi Tetsuari , Mukai Jun , Shimoura Hiroyuki , Matsuzoe Hiroki , Soga Fumitaka , Imanishi Junichi , Yokota Shun , Sano Hiroyuki , Tanaka Yusuke , Hirata Ken‐ichi , Tanaka Hidekazu
Published: January 2024

Objectives

We previously reported a higher left atrial volume index (LAVI) was independently associated with left atrial (LA) appendage (LAA) thrombus formation in 737 patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) receiving appropriate oral anticoagulation therapy. Since our previous study was a retrospective single‐center study, we designed and conducted a prospective multi‐center study to verify our findings for LAVI as a predictor of LAA thrombus in patients with NVAF receiving appropriate oral anticoagulation therapy.

Methods

This prospective multi‐center study comprised 746 consecutive patients with NVAF recruited between December 2021 and March 2023 from eight institutions in Japan, who were receiving appropriate oral anticoagulation therapy, had undergone transthoracic echocardiography and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).

Results

LAA thrombi were observed in 21 patients (2.8%). The prevalence of LAA thrombus formation in patients with paroxysmal AF (PAF) was significantly lower than that in patients with non‐PAF (0.7% vs. 4.1%, p = .006). LAA thrombus formation was detected in none (0/171) of the patients with normal size LA (LAVI ≤ 34 mL/m2). The prevalence of LAA thrombus formation in patients with mildly dilated LA (LAVI: 34–49.9 mL/m2) was 2.1% (6/283), but that in PAF patients was low at 1.0% (1/104). Furthermore, this prevalence in patients with severely dilated LA (LAVI ≥ 50 mL/m2) was high at 5.1% (15/292).

Conclusions

The findings of this prospective multi‐center study are consistent with those of our previous study. Thus, the need for TEE prior to catheter ablation or electrical cardioversion can be determined by the level of LAVI.
Droplet digital PCR for sensitive relapse detection in acute myeloid leukaemia patients transplanted by reduced intensity conditioning
Authors: Gronlund Jonas Kassow , Veigaard Christopher , Juhl‐Christensen Caroline , Skou Anne‐Sofie , Melsvik Dorte , Ommen Hans Beier
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Follow‐up after allogeneic transplantation in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is guided by measurable residual disease (MRD) testing. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is the preferred MRD platform but unfortunately, 40%–60% of AML patients have no high‐quality qPCR target. This study aimed to improve MRD testing by utilising droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). ddPCR offers patient‐specific monitoring but concerns of tracking clonal haematopoiesis rather than malignant cells prompt further validation.

Methods

Retrospectively, we performed MRD testing on blood and bone marrow samples from AML patients transplanted by reduced‐intensity conditioning.

Results

The applicability of ddPCR was 39/42 (92.9%). Forty‐five ddPCR assays were validated with a 0.0089% median sensitivity. qPCR targeting NPM1 mutation detected relapse 46 days before ddPCR (p = .03). ddPCR detected relapse 34.5 days before qPCR targeting WT1 overexpression (p = .03). In non‐relapsing patients, zero false positive ddPCR MRD relapses were observed even when monitoring targets associated with clonal haematopoiesis such as DNMT3A, TET2, and ASXL1 mutations.

Conclusion

These results confirm that qPCR targeting NPM1 mutations or fusion transcripts are superior in MRD testing. In the absence of such targets, ddPCR is a promising alternative demonstrating (a) high applicability, (b) high sensitivity, and (c) zero false positive MRD relapses in non‐relapsing patients.
Achievement and Growth on English Language Proficiency and Content Assessments for English Learners in Elementary Grades
Authors: Buzick Heather M. , Wolf Mikyung Kim , Ballard Laura
Published: January 2024

English language proficiency (ELP) assessment scores are used by states to make high‐stakes decisions related to linguistic support in instruction and assessment for English learner (EL) students and for EL student reclassification. Changes to both academic content standards and ELP academic standards within the last decade have resulted in increased academic rigor and language demands. In this study, we explored the association between EL student performance over time on content (English language arts and mathematics) and ELP assessments, generally finding evidence of positive associations. Modeling the simultaneous association between changes over time in both content and ELP assessment performance contributes empirical evidence about the role of language in ELA and mathematics development and provides contextual information to serve as validity evidence for score inferences for EL students.
Trade‐offs of praise and criticism: Parents' responses to children's performance and children's resilience and depression
Authors: Li Weina , Song Youzhi , Zhou Zongkui
Published: January 2024

In contrast to cognitive outcomes, parental success‐oriented responses to children's performance enhanced the emotional well‐being of children. Conversely, parental failure‐oriented responses had the opposite impact. Thus, it remains unclear which response or combination of responses parents should employ to maximize their children's development. This research aimed to examine the combined effect of children's perceptions of parental success‐ and failure‐oriented responses on children's depression, with a focus on the mediating role of resilience. A total of 651 pupils (44.7% female, M
age = 10.31, range = 8–12) were investigated in China using polynomial regression and response surface analyses. Our findings suggest that when success‐ and failure‐oriented responses are congruent, failure‐oriented responses counteract the protective effect of success‐oriented responses against children's depression. The two equally matched responses demonstrated a curvilinear main effect on resilience, indicating that higher resilience was associated with the upper–middle range of the two responses. Moreover, children who reported more success‐oriented responses than failure‐oriented responses showed greater resilience and decreased depression. Resilience acted as a mediator for the combined effects of parental success and failure‐oriented responses on children's depression. The study addressed the parenting dilemma, specifically the trade‐off between success‐ and failure‐oriented responses in promoting children's optimal development.
Anthropogenic forcing leads to an abrupt shift to phytoplankton dominance in a shallow eutrophic lake
Authors: King Leighton , Devey Mark , Leavitt Peter R. , Power Mitchell J. , Brothers Soren , Brahney Janice
Published: January 2024

The timing and causes of lake eutrophication are often obscured when multiple anthropogenic disturbances coincide in space and time. This issue is particularly problematic for shallow lakes in arid regions that experience strong climatic forcing which alters lake hydrology and water levels, and further conflates causal drivers.

We used Utah Lake (Utah, U.S.A.) as a model system to examine how natural hydrological variability and anthropogenic forcing influence ecosystem structure of large shallow lakes in arid climates. Paleolimnological analyses of sedimentary biogeochemistry, pigments, DNA, and morphological fossils were used to identify shifts in primary production and evaluate the relative influence of regional climate‐driven hydrological variability and of humans on ecosystem structure.

Sediment cores revealed that the phase prior to non‐indigenous settlement included numerous macrophyte and gastropod remains, sedimentary DNA from plants, low organic matter, and low algal production. An abrupt transition occurred in the late 19th century concomitant with agricultural and urban expansion and the introduction of common carp, which was characterised by a loss of macrophytes and an increase in phytoplankton abundance as indicated by sedimentary DNA and pigment concentrations. A further shift to increased cyanobacteria occurred c. 1950 when exponential population growth increased wastewater influx, as recorded by sedimentary δ15N values.

Taken together, our data demonstrate that the current eutrophic state of Utah Lake is a function of anthropogenic forcing rather than natural climate‐driven hydrological fluctuations. Furthermore, large lakes in arid regions can exhibit similar patterns of abrupt ecosystem change between alternate states as those observed in northern temperate/boreal and subtropical ecosystems.
Functional changes across marine habitats due to ocean acidification
Authors: Teixidó Núria , Carlot Jérémy , Alliouane Samir , Ballesteros Enric , De Vittor Cinzia , Gambi Maria Cristina , Gattuso Jean‐Pierre , Kroeker Kristy , Micheli Fiorenza , Mirasole Alice , Parravacini Valeriano , Villéger Sébastien
Published: January 2024

Global environmental change drives diversity loss and shifts in community structure. A key challenge is to better understand the impacts on ecosystem function and to connect species and trait diversity of assemblages with ecosystem properties that are in turn linked to ecosystem functioning. Here we quantify shifts in species composition and trait diversity associated with ocean acidification (OA) by using field measurements at marine CO2 vent systems spanning four reef habitats across different depths in a temperate coastal ecosystem. We find that both species and trait diversity decreased, and that ecosystem properties (understood as the interplay between species, traits, and ecosystem function) shifted with acidification. Furthermore, shifts in trait categories such as autotrophs, filter feeders, herbivores, and habitat‐forming species were habitat‐specific, indicating that OA may produce divergent responses across habitats and depths. Combined, these findings reveal the importance of connecting species and trait diversity of marine benthic habitats with key ecosystem properties to anticipate the impacts of global environmental change. Our results also generate new insights on the predicted general and habitat‐specific ecological consequences of OA.
Past disturbances and local conditions influence the recovery rates of coral reefs
Authors: Walker Andrew S. , Kratochwill Chelsey A. , van Woesik Robert
Published: January 2024

Corals are being increasingly subjected to marine heatwaves. Theory suggests that increasing the intensity of disturbances reduces recovery rates, which inspired us to examine the recovery rates of coral cover following marine heatwaves, cyclones, and other disturbances at 1921 study sites, in 58 countries and three oceans, from 1977 to 2020. In the Atlantic Ocean, coral cover has decreased fourfold since the 1970s, and recovery rates following disturbances have been relatively slow, except in the Antilles. By contrast, reefs in the Pacific and Indian Oceans have maintained coral cover and recovery rates over time. There were positive relationships between rates of coral recovery and prior cyclone and heatwave frequency, and negative relationships between rates of coral recovery and macroalgae cover and distance to shore. A recent increase in the variance in recovery rates in some ecoregions of the Pacific and Indian Oceans suggests that some reefs in those ecoregions may be approaching a phase shift. While marine heatwaves are increasing in intensity and frequency, our results suggest that regional and local conditions influence coral recovery rates, and therefore, effective local management efforts can help reefs recover from disturbances.
Hybridizing Geographically Weighted Regression and Multilevel Models: A New Approach to Capture Contextual Effects in Geographical Analyses
Authors: Feuillet Thierry , Cossart Etienne , Charreire Helene , Banos Arnaud , Pilkington Hugo , Chasles Virginie , Hercberg Serge , Touvier Mathilde , Oppert Jean Michel
Published: January 2024

Multilevel models are one of the main statistical methods used in modeling contextual effects in social sciences. A common limitation of these methods is the use pre‐set boundaries—usually administrative units—to define contexts, when these boundaries do not always match up with the “true” causally relevant contexts that may affect the outcomes of interest. In this study applied to the obesity geography in the Paris area (France), we propose a new spatially explicit two‐step procedure to tackle this methodological issue. The first step consists in estimating a geographically weighted regression model, then using it to reveal and delineate relevant nonstationarity‐based data‐driven spatial contexts, and finally including them as a random effect into a random slope multilevel model. In applying this hybrid methodology for modeling body mass index within a sample of 9,089 French adults, we demonstrate that it outperforms administrative‐based multilevel models in terms of decreasing Akaike information criteria, and is better at accounting for contextual effects through intraclass correlation coefficient and increasing slope variance. We suggest that this procedure might be generalized to quantitative geographical analyses involving contextual effects.
Mental health care in Guyana's jails before and after Independence
Authors: Anderson Clare , Halliwell Martin
Published: January 2024

This article considers the intersecting geographical, social, medical and political frameworks necessary to construct an understanding of mental health in Guyanese prisons, historically and in the present day. Taking an interdisciplinary approach to integrate archives, modern records and interviews, it looks first at colonial and independent state management of mental health impacts with respect to sentencing, incarceration and rehabilitation. It moves on to reflect on recent efforts to provide co‐ordinated policies and practices at national level to tackle more effectively moderate to severe mental health conditions. Here it shows that, as in the colonial period, prisoners and prison officials are typically neglected. Overall, our appreciation of the importance of what we term the coloniality of incarceration and public health enables us to deepen an understanding of the development and ongoing significance of approaches to mental ill health in the modern state, following Guyana's independence from colonial rule in 1966.
Reminiscences on the honeybee genome project and the rise of epigenetic concepts in insect science
Authors: Maleszka Ryszard
Published: January 2024

The sequencing of the honeybee genome in 2006 was an important technological and logistic achievement experience. But what benefits have flown from the honeybee genome project? What does the annotated genomic assembly mean for the study of behavioural complexity and organismal function in honeybees? Here, I discuss several lines of research that have arisen from this project and highlight the rapidly expanding studies on insect epigenomics, emergent properties of royal jelly, the mechanism of nutritional control of development and the contribution of epigenomic regulation to the evolution of sociality. I also argue that the term ‘insect epigenetics’ needs to be carefully redefined to reflect the diversity of epigenomic toolkits in insects and the impact of lineage‐specific innovations on organismal outcomes. The honeybee genome project helped pioneer advances in social insect molecular biology, and fuelled breakthrough research into the role of flexible epigenomic control systems in linking genotype to phenotype.
Association between dental restorations and artefacts on head magnetic resonance images in paediatric patients
Authors: Tunlayadechanont Pitchaya , Tunlayadechanont Padcha , Sriudomporn Nantana , Wisetsathon Ploy , Duangthip Duangporn , Jirarattanasopha Varangkanar
Published: January 2024

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become an important diagnostic tool for paediatric patients. The association between dental restorations and MRI artefacts/distortions, however, is unclear.

Aim

To investigate the association between dental restorations and artefacts in head MRI in children.

Design

This retrospective analysis included patients who underwent head MRI and dental examination at Ramathibodi Hospital from January 2015 to March 2021. From dental records and dental radiographs, a dentist reviewed the amount and type of restorative materials used. Two radiologists examined the MRI scans in five sequences for the presence of distortions and quantified the magnitude and grading of any artefacts.

Results

Ninety‐four patients aged 3–15 years were included. Twenty‐four patients who received preformed metal crowns (PMCs) had MRI distortions. Subjects with no restorations or with tooth‐coloured material or amalgam restorations or both did not exhibit distortions. The number of PMCs was related to the size of an artefact. Almost all distortions were confined to the oral cavity and maxillary sinus and did not affect the diagnostic brain area.

Conclusion

Among the commonly used dental restorative materials for children, only PMCs were associated with artefacts on head MRI scans.
Germanium oxide hybridization enhancing the optical response of Bi‐doped glass and fiber
Authors: Zhang Ke , Chen Jingfei , Dong Quan , Hou Dianhao , Li Hongwei , Wei Tianxia , Li Xueliang , Feng Xu , Zhou Shifeng
Published: January 2024

Bismuth (Bi)‐doped glass and fiber materials exhibit excellent optical performance and have potential in fields such as fiber communication and tunable lasers. However, the preparation of Bi‐doped glass and fiber with high optical activity is still confronted with huge challenges. This study proposes a germanium oxide hybridization strategy to enhance near‐infrared emission in Bi‐doped glass. In addition, by the systematical optimization of the optical response and processability of the glass system, Bi‐doped glass fibers are successfully constructed. The constructed glass fibers have excellent optical performance, and the enhanced amplified spontaneous emission is realized. They show potentials for applications in broadband fiber amplifiers and tunable lasers.
Pre‐hospital symptom clusters and symptom network analysis in decompensated cirrhotic patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhou Kebing , Huang Xiaojiao , Chen Meiling , Li Zhiying , Qin Jieying , Ji Yelin , Yu Xuefen , Yan Fengxia
Published: January 2024

Aims

To generate pre‐hospital symptom networks, explore core, bridge and sentinel symptoms, identify pre‐hospital symptom clusters and analyse relationship between influencing factors and symptom clusters in decompensated cirrhosis patients.

Design

A cross‐sectional study design using the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist.

Methods

Demographical, physiological, psychological and sociological characteristics and the pre‐hospital symptoms of 292 decompensated cirrhotic patients were collected from October 2021 to March 2023 in China. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, independent samples t‐tests, one‐way analysis of variance, exploratory factor analysis, multiple stepwise regression analysis and network analysis were used for data analysis.

Results

‘I don't look like myself’ and itching were core and bridge symptoms, while bloating and lack of energy were sentinel symptoms in decompensated cirrhotic patients. Monthly family income, anxiety, depression, social support and disease duration influenced the neuropsychological symptom cluster, with worrying as the strongest predictor symptom. Influential factors for cirrhosis‐specific symptom cluster included Child‐Pugh class, monthly family income, disease duration, anxiety and depression, with itching being the strongest predictor symptom. Monthly family income, disease duration and depression were influential factors for gastrointestinal symptom cluster, with loss of appetite as the strongest predictor symptom.

Conclusions

Neuropsychological, cirrhosis‐specific and gastrointestinal symptom clusters were formed in decompensated cirrhotic patients. Through network analysis, direct connections between symptoms, symptom clusters and their influencing factors were revealed, thereby offering clinicians a foundation for effectively managing patients' pre‐hospital symptoms.

Impact

Decompensated cirrhosis patients commonly have multiple symptoms, while the management of pre‐hospital symptoms is often suboptimal. This study identified neuropsychological, cirrhosis‐specific, gastrointestinal symptom clusters and recognized core, bridge and sentinel symptoms in these patients. It also revealed the most prominent symptoms within each cluster. This provides insight into the hierarchy of symptoms, improving symptom management in decompensated cirrhosis.

Patient and Public Involvement

There was no patient or public involvement.
Using multimodal learning analytics to understand effects of block‐based and text‐based modalities on computer programming
Authors: Sun Dan , Ouyang Fan , Li Yan , Zhu Chengcong , Zhou Yang
Published: January 2024

Background

With the development of computational literacy, there has been a surge in both research and practice application of text‐based and block‐based modalities within the field of computer programming education. Despite this trend, little work has actually examined how learners engaging in programming process when utilizing these two major programming modalities, especially in the context of secondary education settings.

Objectives

To further compare programming effects between and within text‐based and block‐based modalities, this research conducted a quasi‐experimental research in China's secondary school.

Methods

An online programming platform, Code4all, was developed to allow learners to program in text‐based and block‐based modalities. This research collected multimodal data sources, including programming platform data, process data, and performance data. This research further utilized multiple learning analytics approaches (i.e., clustering analysis, click stream analysis, lag‐sequential analysis and statistics) to compare learners' programming features, behavioural patterns and knowledge gains under two modalities.

Results and Conclusions

The results indicated that learners in text‐based modality tended to write longer lines of code, encountered more syntactical errors, and took longer to attempt debugging. In contrast, learners in block‐based modality spent more time operating blocks and attempt debugging, achieving better programming knowledge performances compared to their counterparts. Further analysis of five clusters from the two modalities revealed discrepancies in programming behavioural patterns.

Implications

Three major pedagogical implications were proposed based on empirical research results. Furthermore, this research contributed to the learning analytics literature by integrating process‐oriented and summative analysis to reveal learners' programming learning quality.
The evolution of nutrition management in children with severe neurological impairment with a focus on cerebral palsy
Authors: Oftedal Stina , McCormack Siobhan , Stevenson Richard , Benfer Katherine , Boyd Roslyn N. , Bell Kristie
Published: January 2024

Nutritional management of children with severe neurological impairment (SNI) is highly complex, and the profile of this population is changing. The aim of this narrative review was to give the reader a broad description of evolution of the nutritional management of children with SNI in a high resource setting. In the last decade, there has been an emphasis on using multiple anthropometric measures to monitor nutritional status in children with SNI, and several attempts at standardising the approach have been made. Tools such as the Feeding and Nutrition Screening Tool, the Subjective Global Nutrition Assessment, the Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System and the Focus on Early Eating and Drinking Swallowing (FEEDS) toolkit have become available. There has been an increased understanding of how the gut microbiome influences gastrointestinal symptoms common in children with SNI, and the use of fibre in the management of these has received attention. A new diagnosis, ‘gastrointestinal dystonia’, has been defined. The increased use and acceptance of blended food tube feeds has been a major development in the nutritional management of children with SNI, with reported benefits in managing gastrointestinal symptoms. New interventions to support eating and drinking skill development in children with SNI show promise. In conclusion, as the life expectancy of people with SNI increases due to advances in medical and nutrition care, our approach necessitates a view to long‐term health and quality of life. This involves balancing adequate nutrition to support growth, development and well‐being while avoiding overnutrition and its associated detrimental long‐term effects.
Microneedling versus microcoring: A review of percutaneous collagen induction for the face and neck
Authors: Carver C. , Rashid Z. , Shuker S.
Published: January 2024

Background

Microneedling (MN) and microcoring (MCT) are both methods used for percutaneous collagen induction. This minimally invasive technique involves creating controlled damage in cutaneous tissue to induce neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis. MN utilizes solid microneedles and is commonly combined with radiofrequency (RF) to add thermal energy, while MCT involves hollow microneedles capable of removing excess tissue without inducing scar formation.

Aims

The purpose of this review was to summarize recent literature for MN and MCT, with the goal of assisting clinical decision making regarding the use of these technologies.

Methods

PubMed search was conducted for relevant articles published within the last 10 years. Scoping literature review was then performed with pertinent findings reported.

Results

Existing literature investigating MCT is sparse. Limited data on in vivo, human effects of this technology exist. Two out of 14 studies in this review pertained to MCT.

Conclusion

Additional high‐powered clinical studies are needed to guide future cosmetic treatments with MN and MCT.
When I say … epistemic injustice
Authors: Percival Candace S. , Martin Paolo C. , Maggio Lauren A. , Wyatt Tasha R.
Published: January 2024

In the latest "When I Say…" Percival et al. analyze the term 'epistemic injustice' to outline how it impacts medical learners, teachers, patients and clinicians.
A Regularity Theory of Causation
Authors: Andreas Holger , Günther Mario
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we propose a regularity theory of causation. The theory aims to be reductive and to align with our pre‐theoretic understanding of the causal relation. We show that our theory can account for a wide range of causal scenarios, including isomorphic scenarios, omissions, and scenarios which suggest that causation is not transitive.
Neighbourhood species richness and drought‐tolerance traits modulate tree growth and δ13C responses to drought
Authors: Schnabel F. , Barry K. E. , Eckhardt S. , Guillemot J. , Geilmann H. , Kahl A. , Moossen H. , Bauhus J. , Wirth C.
Published: January 2024

Mixed‐species forests are promoted as a forest management strategy for climate change adaptation, but whether they are more resistant to drought than monospecific forests remains contested. In particular, the trait‐based mechanisms driving the role of tree diversity under drought remain elusive.

Using tree cores from a large‐scale biodiversity experiment, we investigated tree growth and physiological stress responses (i.e. increase in wood carbon isotopic ratio; δ13C) to changes in climate‐induced water availability (wet to dry years) along gradients in neighbourhood tree species richness and drought‐tolerance traits. We hypothesized that neighbourhood species richness increases growth and decreases δ13C and that these relationships are modulated by the abiotic (i.e. climatic conditions) and the biotic context. We characterised the biotic context using drought‐tolerance traits of focal trees and their neighbours. These traits are related to cavitation resistance versus resource acquisition and stomatal control.

Tree growth increased with neighbourhood species richness. However, we did not observe a universal relief of water stress in species‐rich neighbourhoods. The effects of neighbourhood species richness and climate on growth and δ13C were modulated by the traits of focal trees and the traits of their neighbours. At either end of each drought‐tolerance gradient, species responded in opposing directions during dry and wet years.

We show that species' drought‐tolerance traits can explain the strength and nature of biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationships in experimental tree communities experiencing drought. Mixing tree species can increase growth but may not universally relieve drought stress.
Interspecific hybridization and inoculation with Pantoea eucalypti improve forage performance of Lotus crop species under alkaline stress
Authors: Campestre M. P. , Antonelli C. J. , Castagno N. L. , Maguire V. G. , Ruiz O. A.
Published: January 2024

This study was designed to elucidate the physiological responses of three Lotus forage accessions to alkaline stress, and the influence of inoculating with Pantoea eucalypti endophyte strain on alkaline stress mitigation. A diploid L. corniculatus (Lc) accession, L. tenuis (Lt), and the interspecific hybrid Lt × Lc obtained from these two parental lines were exposed to alkaline stress (pH 8.2).

Both Lt and the Lt × Lc hybrid are alkaline‐tolerant compared to Lc, based on observations that dry mass was not reduced under stress, and there were no chlorosis symptoms on leaf blades. In all three Lotus accessions, Fe2+ concentration under stress decreased in aerial parts and simultaneously increased in roots. Inoculation with P. eucalypti considerably increased Fe2+ content in shoots of all three Lotus forage species under alkaline treatment.

Photochemical efficiency of PSII was affected in Lc accession only when exposed to alkaline treatment. However, when cultivated under alkalinity with inoculation, plants recovered and had photosynthetic parameters equivalent to those in the control treatment.

Together, the results highlight the importance of inoculation with P. eucalypti, which contributes significantly to mitigating alkaline stress. All results provide useful information for improving alkaline tolerance traits of Lotus forage species and their interspecific hybrids.
Trust in action: Cooperation, information, and social policy preferences
Authors: Colombo Francesco , Ray Ari
Published: January 2024

What happens to peoples' social‐policy preferences when their expectations concerning collective behavior are met, or even exceeded? And what conversely occurs when these expectations are unmet, and trust is thereby breached? Drawing on the first Italian COVID‐19 lockdown as a massive exercise in collective action, this study tests how information on lockdown‐compliance rates causally affects the social‐policy preferences of Italian voters, conditional on their pretreatment levels of trust. Examining social‐policy preferences across multiple dimensions, we find that trust is most closely linked to attitudes towards transfer generosity, as opposed to preferences on policy universalism and conditionality. Results highlight that neutral, fact‐based information on cooperation levels can affect social‐policy preferences—and that the direction of attitude change depends on whether one's trust has been met or breached.