bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensifying translocal precarity: The impact of COVID‐19 on smallholder farmers' commodity production and social reproduction in Cambodia
Authors: Yi Rosa , Green W. Nathan
Published: June 2024

Against a backdrop of agrarian transformation, COVID‐19 intensified translocal precarity among smallholder farmers worldwide. As scholars of economic geography and agrarian studies have shown, smallholder households increasingly struggle to reproduce themselves through agrarian livelihoods alone, with many households compelled to migrate to urban centres, both domestic and foreign, to find employment. Consequently, smallholder farmers now experience precarity shaped by the translocal spaces of both production and social reproduction. In this paper, based on a qualitative study of smallholders in northwestern Cambodia conducted from 2019 to 2023, we argue that COVID‐19 deepened the translocal precarity of smallholder households, who already had to struggle with volatile commodity production and uncertain labour migration. We explain how the pandemic led to urban job losses and forced workers to return to rural homes and farming. On the farm, pandemic restrictions on cross‐border trade of agricultural inputs drove up production costs while competition for land between migrant returnees increased land rental fees, pushing many smallholders into debt traps following poor harvests. Indebted households responded by migrating to Thailand again, where labour demand for industrial production remained low after the pandemic, creating additional uncertainty about their migration journey. We conclude that the impacts of COVID‐19 on smallholder households are usefully explained through the lens of translocal precarity. This approach reveals how the pandemic played out within a broader conjuncture of agrarian transformation, defined by adverse incorporation into transnational commodity markets, a lack of sustaining infrastructure in the countryside, and an increasingly debt‐driven migration regime.
3D evaluation of sagittal inclination of the maxillary dentition in relation to facial landmarks: A cohort study
Authors: El‐Sabbagh Basel , Seidel Kathrin , Sayahpour Babak , Güth Jan‐Frederik
Published: June 2024

Background

The determination of the maxillary occlusal plane presents a significant clinical challenge in the treatment of edentulous patients as well as it is critical for complex full‐mouth reconstructions in dentate patients, including those with implant‐supported rehabilitations. While the use of a Fox plane plate is standard in edentulous cases, its application in dentate patients lacks thorough documentation in existing literature.

Purpose

This clinical study assessed the sagittal position of the maxillary dentition in relation to facial landmarks using a digital three‐dimensional analysis and evaluated the suitability and reliability of applying a simulated Fox plane plate, also known as an occlusal plane guide, in dentate patients.

Materials and Methods

Eighty‐one subjects were recruited at the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry of Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany, according to specific inclusion criteria. Intraoral and facial scans were obtained and analyzed using GOM Inspect Pro software (GOM, Braunschweig, Germany). The angles between the maxillary occlusal plane and three variations each of Camper's plane and ala‐tragus line, relating to superior, middle, and inferior tragus points, were measured. These modified planes were then compared to a plane established by a simulated digital Fox plane plate, which was adapted to the maxillary anterior teeth and the lowest point of the posterior teeth in both quadrants.

Results

A total of 81 subjects (58 female and 23 male) with a mean age of 23.9 years were evaluated in this study. No significant angular difference was found between the angles of the maxillary occlusal plane compared with superior Camper's plane, middle Camper's plane, or superior ala‐tragus line (p >0.05). The smallest angle occurred between superior Camper's plane and the maxillary occlusal plane on both the right (3.443°) and left (3.535°) sides. The application of a Fox plane plate resulted in two different occlusal planes in 70% of patients, significantly deviating from the digitally determined plane (p <0.05).

Conclusion

Superior and middle Camper's planes, along with superior ala‐tragus line, can be considered approximately parallel reference planes and are suitable for routine determining of the maxillary occlusal plane in restorative treatments. However, in contrast to digital evaluation methods, the application of a Fox plane plate in dentate patients showed high variability, indicating its low reproducibility due to its ambiguous positioning on the maxillary dentition.

Clinical trial registration site: https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00030166.
Time to change our approach to presymptomatic treatment of Sturge–Weber syndrome
Authors: Comi Anne M.
Published: June 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Mankel et al. on pages 111–118 of this issue.
Diagnostic pathway and management of first seizures in infants with Sturge–Weber syndrome
Authors: Mankel Finola Lauren , Papandreou Apostolos , Mankad Kshitij , Richardson Hanna , Aylett Sarah E.
Published: June 2024

Aim

Sturge–Weber syndrome (SWS) is a rare neurocutaneous syndrome, frequently associated with pharmaco‐resistant, early‐onset epilepsy. Optimal seizure control is paramount to maximize neurodevelopment.

Method

A single‐centre case series of 49 infants explored early SWS care. Ninety‐two per cent of children developed seizures aged 0 to 3 years; 55% of cases were before diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or tertiary referral. Delay in SWS diagnosis affected 31% of infants because of a lack of gadolinium enhancement for initial MRI. First seizures were frequently prolonged, with phenytoin administration necessary in 46%. Presymptomatic antiseizure medication prophylaxis (n = 8/49) decreased seizure burden. No patients on antiseizure medication prophylaxis suffered status epilepticus for longer than 30 minutes, and half of them (n = 4) had not developed seizures at last follow‐up (aged 2–10 years).

Results

A parental survey enabled further service evaluation. Eighty‐three per cent of parents considered local clinicians' understanding of SWS inadequate: 61% felt insufficiently informed about SWS and 81% received no epilepsy education before seizures.

Interpretation

To overcome the identified shortfalls, guidelines towards improving and standardizing SWS management are proposed.
Serum bile acid profiles are associated with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease: An exploratory study
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Dong , Xu Cui‐Fang , Chen Qin‐Fen , Shapiro Michael D. , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Chen Li‐Li , Targher Giovanni , Byrne Christopher D. , Tian Na , Xiao Tie , Huang Chen‐Xiao , Ni Yan , Zheng Ming‐Hua
Published: June 2024

Aim

To analyse the association between serum bile acid (BA) profile and heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).

Methods

We enrolled 163 individuals with biopsy‐proven MAFLD undergoing transthoracic echocardiography for any indication. HFpEF was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction >50% with at least one echocardiographic feature of HF (left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, abnormal left atrial size) and at least one HF sign or symptom. Serum levels of 38 BAs were analysed using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Among the 163 patients enrolled (mean age 47.0 ± 12.8 years, 39.3% female), 52 (31.9%) and 43 (26.4%) met the HFpEF and pre‐HFpEF criteria, and 38 serum BAs were detected. Serum ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and hyocholic acid (HCA) species were lower in patients with HFpEF and achieved statistical significance after correction for multiple comparisons. Furthermore, decreases in glycoursodeoxycholic acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid were associated with HF status.

Conclusions

In this exploratory study, specific UDCA and HCA species were associated with HFpEF status in adults with biopsy‐confirmed MAFLD.
Reclaiming Agency in Care Decisions and Barriers From the Perspectives of Individuals With Acquired Brain Injury and Their Family Members
Authors: Ownsworth Tamara , Bates Annerley , Watter Kerrin , Morgan Clare , Bell Ryan , Griffin Janelle , Turner Ben , Kennedy Areti , Kendall Melissa , Adams Belinda , Gibson Emily , Hakala Troy , Mitchell Jessie
Published: June 2024

Background

The ability to self‐advocate or have a say in one's care is integral to personalised care after acquired brain injury (ABI). This study aimed to understand what constitutes self‐advocacy and associated barriers and facilitators throughout hospital transitions and into the community.

Method

Qualitative methodology was employed with semistructured interviews conducted with 12 people with ABI and 13 family members. Interviews were conducted at predischarge (in‐person or via telephone) and 4 months postdischarge (via telephone) from the brain injury rehabilitation unit of a tertiary hospital. Data were thematically analysed using a hybrid deductive–inductive approach.

Results

Self‐advocacy reflects the process of reclaiming agency or people's efforts to exert influence over care decisions after ABI. Agency varies along a continuum, often beginning with impaired processing of the self or environment (loss of agency) before individuals start to understand and question their care (emerging agency) and ultimately plan and direct their ongoing and future care (striving for agency). This process may vary across individuals and contexts. Barriers to self‐advocacy for individuals with ABI include neurocognitive deficits that limit capacity and desire for control over decisions, unfamiliar and highly structured environments and lack of family support. Facilitators include neurocognitive recovery, growing desire to self‐advocate and scaffolded support from family and clinicians.

Conclusion

Self‐advocacy after ABI entails a process of reclaiming agency whereby individuals seek to understand, question and direct their ongoing care. This is facilitated by neurocognitive recovery, growing capacity and desire and scaffolded supports. Research evaluating approaches for embedding self‐advocacy skills early in brain injury rehabilitation is recommended.

Patient or Public Contribution

Two caregivers with lived experience of supporting a family member with ABI were involved in the design and conduct of this study and contributed to and provided feedback on the manuscript.
ALK‐rearranged, CD34‐positive spindle cell neoplasms resembling dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: a study of seven cases
Authors: Agrawal Shruti , Ameline Baptiste , Folpe Andrew L , Azzato Elizabeth , Astbury Caroline , Mentzel Thomas , Knapp Calvin , Rütten Arno , Creytens David , Sukov William , Baumhoer Daniel , Billings Steven D , Fritchie Karen J
Published: June 2024

Aims

The majority of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) harbour PDGFB or PDGFD rearrangements. We encountered ALK expression/rearrangement in a PDGFB/D‐negative CD34‐positive spindle cell neoplasm with features similar to DFSP, prompting evaluation of ALK‐rearrangements in DFSP and plaque‐like CD34‐positive dermal fibroma (P‐LDF).

Methods and Results

We searched the archives of academic institutions for cases previously coded as DFSP and P‐LDF. NGS‐naïve or PDGFB‐negative DFSP were screened for ALK (clone D5F3) expression by immunohistochemistry. NGS or ALK FISH was performed on ALK‐positive cases. Methylome profiling studies were performed and compared with conventional DFSP. One case of “DFSP” and two “P‐LDF” with ALK expression were identified from the archives, while four cases were detected prospectively. These seven cases (6F:1M; 8 months to 76 years) arose in the dermis of the arm (two), scalp, eyelid, thigh, abdomen, and shoulder and ranged from 0.4 to 4.2 cm. Tumours were composed of spindled cells and displayed a storiform growth pattern. Cytologic atypia was absent, and mitotic figures were scarce (0–2/10 HPFs, high power fields). The lesional cells were diffusely positive for CD34 and ALK and negative for S100 protein. By NGS (n = 5), ALK fusion partners included DCTN1 (2), PLEKHH2, and CLIP2 in DFSP‐like cases and FLNA in P‐LDF‐like lesions. ALK FISH was positive in one (of two) cases previously labelled P‐LDF. Methylome profiling of two (of three) ALK‐rearranged DFSP‐like tumours showed clustering with conventional DFSP in the UMAP dimension reduction plot. To date, no tumour has recurred (n = 2; 26, 27 months).

Conclusion

We describe a cohort of novel ALK‐rearranged tumours with morphologic features similar to DFSP.
Associations between paediatric obesity, chemical mixtures and environmental factors, in a national cross‐sectional study of Canadian children
Authors: Dugandzic Rose , Konstantelos Natalia , Yu Yamei , Lavigne Eric , Srugo Sebastian , Lang Justin J. , Larsen Kristian , Pollock Tyler , Villeneuve Paul , Thomson Errol M. , MacPherson Miranda , Dales Robert , Cakmak Sabit
Published: June 2024

Background

Whilst single chemical exposures are suspected to be obesogenic, the combined role of chemical mixtures in paediatric obesity is not well understood.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the potential associations between chemical mixtures and obesity in a population‐based sample of Canadian children.

Methods

We ascertained biomonitoring and health data for children aged 3–11 from the cross‐sectional Canadian Health Measures Survey from 2007 to 2019. Several chemicals of interest were measured in blood or urine and paediatric obesity was defined based on measured anthropometrics. Using quantile‐based G computational analysis, we quantified the effects of three chemical mixtures selected a priori. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic and environmental factors identified through a directed acyclic graph. Results are presented through adjusted relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

We included 9147 children. Of these, 24.1% were overweight or obese. Exposure to the mixture of bisphenol A, acrylamide, glycidamide, metals, parabens and arsenic increased the risk of childhood overweight or obesity by 45% (95% CI 1.09, 1.93), obesity by 109% (95% CI 1.27, 3.42) and central obesity by 82% (95% CI 1.30, 2.56).

Conclusions

Our findings support the role of early childhood chemical exposures in paediatric obesity and the potential combined effects of chemicals.
Diagnostic accuracy of ANCA serology in ANCA‐associated vasculitis with renal involvement
Authors: Cohen Adrienne , Weerasinghe Nethmi , Lemmert Karla , de Malmanche Theo , Myint Thida
Published: June 2024

Background

Pauci‐immune glomerulonephritis (GN) due to antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)‐associated vasculitis (AAV) is a common cause of crescentic GN. Despite advances in treatment, rates of mortality and progression to end‐stage kidney disease remain high. Renal involvement is diagnosed by histological examination of kidney tissue. Serum ANCAs play a significant role in AAV; however, the value of serum ANCA quantification to predict renal involvement is not well‐established.

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of serum ANCA titres in diagnosing AAV with renal involvement.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of consecutive native kidney biopsies reported at our centre from 2016 to 2021. We included all adults who had both a kidney biopsy and ANCA serology. ANCA serology was tested using indirect immunofluorescence with reporting of titres. Antibodies to proteinase 3 and myeloperoxidase were measured using a chemiluminescent immunoassay.

Results

Eight hundred and forty‐eight native kidney biopsies were reported during the study period. Five hundred and seven cases were included. The biopsy prevalence of pauci‐immune GN in paired samples was 41/507 (8.1%). Most of the cohort had haematuria (66.6%), proteinuria (93.4%) and/or acute kidney injury (65.0%). A positive ANCA at any titre demonstrated a sensitivity of 97.6% and a specificity of 71.2% for a diagnosis of pauci‐immune GN. The area under the curve for the receiver operator characteristic was 0.93 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.89–0.97). A cutoff ANCA titre of 1:160 provided the optimum balance between a sensitivity of 75.6% (95% CI: 59.7%–87.6%) and a specificity of 94.0% (95% CI: 91.6%–96.0%).

Conclusions

ANCA titres are highly predictive of pauci‐immune GN in the appropriate context. While serum ANCA quantitation may not replace renal biopsy, reporting will assist in the decision to start treatment early for patients with organ or life‐threatening disease.
Gut microbiota as a sensor of autoimmune response and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Lamba Abhinav , Taneja Veena
Published: June 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is considered a multifactorial condition where interaction between the genetic and environmental factors lead to immune dysregulation causing autoreactivity. While among the various genetic factors, HLA‐DR4 and DQ8, have been reported to be the strongest risk factors, the role of various environmental factors has been unclear. Though events initiating autoreactivity remain unknown, a mucosal origin of RA has gained attention based on the recent observations with the gut dysbiosis in patients. However, causality of gut dysbiosis has been difficult to prove in humans. Mouse models, especially mice expressing RA‐susceptible and ‐resistant HLA class II genes have helped unravel the complex interactions between genetic factors and gut microbiome. This review describes the interactions between HLA genes and gut dysbiosis in sex‐biased preclinical autoreactivity and discusses the potential use of endogenous commensals as indicators of treatment efficacy as well as therapeutic tool to suppress pro‐inflammatory response in rheumatoid arthritis.
Construction of nursing‐sensitive quality indicators for acute poisoning in emergency departments: An e‐Delphi study
Authors: Li Ying , Wei Jing , Xu Hua , Zhang Ya , Yin Xiangguang , Zhao Mingjie , Wang Jing
Published: June 2024

Aims

The aim of the study was to develop a set of nursing‐sensitive quality indicators for acute poisoning in emergency departments.

Design

A two‐round e‐Delphi study was conducted from July to November 2023.

Methods

Subject‐matter experts from 19 tertiary hospitals across four provinces of China participated in the survey. Potential indicators identified through a literature review were rated on a 5‐point Likert scale and comments solicited. Descriptive statistics were used to demonstrate convergence of expert opinion, and consensus was reached in two rounds. Weights of each indicator were determined by analytic hierarchy process. There were 20 expert responses in Round 1 and 18 in Round 2.

Results

After two rounds, experts reached a consensus on definitions, calculation formulas, and data collection methods for these indicators. Three primary and 11 secondary indicators were included in the final nursing‐sensitive quality indicators for acute poisoning in the emergency department.

Conclusion

A set of indicators about acute poisoning care, applicable to the Chinese context, was developed in collaboration with emergency nurse specialists.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

The lack of supervision of the nursing quality for acute poisoning leads to great variability in clinical practice in different medical institutions. The results can help in their standardization in China and in other countries lacking regulation. Our study also offers nursing managers a concrete and operable evaluation tool for quality supervision. Normative nursing behaviours are conducive to increase safety and enhance patients' experience of medical treatment.

Impact

The indicators identified in this study closely approach clinical practice and exhibit the characteristics of sensitivity and practicality. Although developed in the Chinese healthcare system, there is potential for adoption or adaption in other healthcare settings.

Reporting Method

This study was reported in line with the Conducting and REporting of DElphi studies (CREDE) guidance on Delphi studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution in this study.

Contribution to the Wider Global Clinical Community

The nursing quality of acute poisoning in emergency departments remains a growing attention, but the relevant assessment tools are lack. This study provides a set of nursing‐sensitive quality indicators for acute poisoning to guide the quality monitoring of nursing managers. Study recommendations have broad applicability to all healthcare professionals who are engaged in emergency nursing.
Imeglimin enhances glucagon secretion through an indirect mechanism and improves fatty liver in high‐fat, high‐sucrose diet‐fed mice
Authors: Kikuchi Osamu , Ikeuchi Yuichi , Kobayashi Masaki , Tabei Yoko , Yokota‐Hashimoto Hiromi , Kitamura Tadahiro
Published: June 2024

Aims/Introduction

Imeglimin is a recently approved oral antidiabetic agent that improves insulin resistance, and promotes insulin secretion from pancreatic β‐cells. Here, we investigated the effects of imeglimin on glucagon secretion from pancreatic α‐cells.

Materials and Methods

Experiments were carried out in high‐fat, high‐sucrose diet‐fed mice. The effects of imeglimin were examined using insulin and glucose tolerance tests, glucose clamp studies, and measurements of glucagon secretion from isolated islets. Glucagon was measured using both the standard and the sequential protocol of Mercodia sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay; the latter eliminates cross‐reactivities with other proglucagon‐derived peptides.

Results

Plasma glucagon, insulin and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 levels were increased by imeglimin administration in high‐fat, high‐sucrose diet‐fed mice. Glucose clamp experiments showed that the glucagon increase was not caused by reduced blood glucose levels. After both single and long‐term administration of imeglimin, glucagon secretions were significantly enhanced during glucose tolerance tests. Milder enhancement was observed when using the sequential protocol. Long‐term administration of imeglimin did not alter α‐cell mass. Intraperitoneal imeglimin administration did not affect glucagon secretion, despite significantly decreased blood glucose levels. Imeglimin did not enhance glucagon secretion from isolated islets. Imeglimin administration improved fatty liver by suppressing de novo lipogenesis through decreasing sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1c and carbohydrate response element binding protein and their target genes, while enhancing fatty acid oxidation through increasing carnitine palmitoyltransferase I.

Conclusions

Overall, the present results showed that imeglimin enhances glucagon secretion through an indirect mechanism. Our findings also showed that glucagon secretion promoted by imeglimin could contribute to improvement of fatty liver through suppressing de novo lipogenesis and enhancing fatty acid oxidation.
The battle against the introduced pathogenic monogeneanGyrodactylus salarisin Norwegian Atlantic salmon rivers and fish farms
Authors: Mo Tor Atle
Published: June 2024

The introduced salmonid ectoparasiteGyrodactylus salarishas been detected on Atlantic salmon in 53 Norwegian rivers and in 39 Norwegian fish farms. In affected rivers, the mortality of Atlantic salmon juveniles is very high, estimated to a mean of 86%.G. salarishas been considered one of the biggest threats to wild Norwegian Atlantic salmon stocks. With various measures, the authorities have reduced the potential for further spread of the parasite to new rivers and fish farms, andG. salarishas been eradicated from 43 rivers and all fish farms. Furthermore, the eradication process is almost completed in five affected rivers located at the Norwegian west coast, while preparations for the eradication in the remaining five rivers in the southeastern part of Norway have begun. The goal of Norwegian management is to eradicate the introduced pathogenicG. salarisstrains from all occurrences in Norway. In fish farms, the parasite has been removed by mandatory slaughter of infected fish. In rivers,G. salarishas mostly been removed by killing all the fish hosts with rotenone. The indigenous genetic Atlantic salmon stocks are re‐established after eradication of the parasite. New methods are developed using chemicals that kill the parasite without killing fish in the rivers. Norwegian authorities have so far used more than NOK 1.5 billion on research, monitoring and combatingG. salaris. However, the benefits are considered many times greater than the spending. Without control measures,G. salariswould likely have spread to new Atlantic salmon rivers where the same catastrophic outcome had to be expected. The Norwegian authorities seem to meet the goal in their long‐term work to halt the spread ofG. salarisand to eradicate the parasite in affected rivers.
Meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing aggressive versus non‐aggressive intravenous fluid therapy in acute pancreatitis: an insight into the existence of type 2 error
Authors: Evans Daisy , Hajibandeh Shahin , Hajibandeh Shahab , Athwal Tejinderjit S , Satyadas Thomas
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

We aimed to evaluate comparative outcomes of aggressive versus non‐aggressive intravenous fluid (IVF) therapy in patients with acute pancreatitis.

Methods

A systematic search of electronic data sources and bibliographic reference lists were conducted. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting outcomes of aggressive versus non‐aggressive IVF therapy in acute pancreatitis were included and their risk of bias were assessed. Effect sizes were determined for overall mortality, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis, respiratory failure, pancreatic necrosis, severe pancreatitis, clinical improvement, AKI, and length of stay using random‐effects modeling. Trial sequential analysis was conducted to determine risk of types 1 or 2 errors.

Results

We included 10 RCTs reporting 993 patients with acute pancreatitis who received aggressive (n = 475) or non‐aggressive (n = 518) IVF therapy. Aggressive IVF therapy was associated with significantly higher rate of sepsis (OR: 2.68, P = 0.0005) and longer length of stay (MD: 0.94, P < 0.00001) compared with the non‐aggressive approach. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality (RD: 0.02, P = 0.31), SIRS (OR: 0.93, P = 0.89), respiratory failure (OR: 2.81, P = 0.07), pancreatic necrosis (OR: 1.98, P = 0.06), severe pancreatitis (OR: 1.31, P = 0.38), clinical improvement (OR: 1.12, P = 0.83) or AKI (OR: 1.06, P = 0.91) between the two groups. Sub‐group analysis demonstrated higher morbidity and mortality associated with the aggressive approach in more severe disease. Trial sequential analysis detected risk of type 2 error.

Conclusions

Aggressive IVF therapy may be associated with higher morbidity in patients with acute pancreatitis compared with the non‐aggressive approach, particularly in patients with more severe disease. It may also prolong length of hospital stay. The available evidence is subject to type 2 error indicating the need for adequately powered RCTs.
Unusual dark‐field hyperspectral and confocal Raman microscopy features of a nanoporous gold electrode coated with porphyrazine complex
Authors: Ribeiro Leonardo M. A. , Silva Hiago N. , Damasceno Pedro H. A. , Bertotti Mauro , Toyama Marcos M. , Nakamura Marcelo , Toma Henrique E.
Published: June 2024

Nanoporous gold electrodes are of great interest in electroanalytical chemistry, because of their unusual activity and large surface area. The electrochemical activity can be further improved by coating with molecular catalysts such as the tetraruthenated cobalt‐tetrapyridylporphyrazines investigated in this work. The plasmonic enhancement of the scattered light at the nanoholes and borders modifies the electrode's optical characteristics, improving the transmission through the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect. When monitored by hyperspectral dark‐field and confocal Raman microscopy, this effect allows probing of the porphyrazine species at the plasmonic nanholes, improving the understanding of the chemically modified gold electrodes.
A multifunctional role for riboflavin in the yellow nectar of Capsicum baccatum and Capsicum pubescens
Authors: Magner Evin T. , Freund Saxhaug Katrina , Zambre Amod , Bruns Kaitlyn , Carroll Patrick , Snell‐Rood Emilie C. , Hegeman Adrian D. , Carter Clay J.
Published: June 2024

A few Capsicum (pepper) species produce yellow‐colored floral nectar, but the chemical identity and biological function of the yellow pigment are unknown.

A combination of analytical biochemistry techniques was used to identify the pigment that gives Capsicum baccatum and Capsicum pubescens nectars their yellow color. Microbial growth assays, visual modeling, and honey bee preference tests for artificial nectars containing riboflavin were used to assess potential biological roles for the nectar pigment.

High concentrations of riboflavin (vitamin B2) give the nectars their intense yellow color. Nectars containing riboflavin generate reactive oxygen species when exposed to light and reduce microbial growth. Visual modeling also indicates that the yellow color is highly conspicuous to bees within the context of the flower. Lastly, field experiments demonstrate that honey bees prefer artificial nectars containing riboflavin.

Some Capsicum nectars contain a yellow‐colored vitamin that appears to play roles in (1) limiting microbial growth, (2) the visual attraction of bees, and (3) as a reward to nectar‐feeding flower visitors (potential pollinators), which is especially interesting since riboflavin is an essential nutrient for brood rearing in insects. These results cumulatively suggest that the riboflavin found in some Capsicum nectars has several functions.
Modulation of abscisic acid signaling via endosomal TOL proteins
Authors: Moulinier‐Anzola Jeanette , Schwihla Maximilian , Lugsteiner Rebecca , Leibrock Nils , Feraru Mugurel I. , Tkachenko Irma , Luschnig Christian , Arcalis Elsa , Feraru Elena , Lozano‐Juste Jorge , Korbei Barbara
Published: June 2024

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) functions in the control of plant stress responses, particularly in drought stress. A significant mechanism in attenuating and terminating ABA signals involves regulated protein turnover, with certain ABA receptors, despite their main presence in the cytosol and nucleus, subjected to vacuolar degradation via the Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT) machinery.

Collectively our findings show that discrete TOM1‐LIKE (TOL) proteins, which are functional ESCRT‐0 complex substitutes in plants, affect the trafficking for degradation of core components of the ABA signaling and transport machinery.

TOL2,3,5 and 6 modulate ABA signaling where they function additively in degradation of ubiquitinated ABA receptors and transporters.

TOLs colocalize with their cargo in different endocytic compartments in the root epidermis and in guard cells of stomata, where they potentially function in ABA‐controlled stomatal aperture.

Although the tol2/3/5/6 quadruple mutant plant line is significantly more drought‐tolerant and has a higher ABA sensitivity than control plant lines, it has no obvious growth or development phenotype under standard conditions, making the TOL genes ideal candidates for engineering to improved plant performance.
Unsaturation in the air spaces of leaves and its implications
Authors: Cernusak Lucas A. , Wong Suan Chin , Stuart‐Williams Hilary , Márquez Diego A. , Pontarin Nicole , Farquhar Graham D.
Published: June 2024

Modern plant physiological theory stipulates that the resistance to water movement from plants to the atmosphere is overwhelmingly dominated by stomata. This conception necessitates a corollary assumption—that the air spaces in leaves must be nearly saturated with water vapour; that is, with a relative humidity that does not decline materially below unity. As this idea became progressively engrained in scientific discourse and textbooks over the last century, observations inconsistent with this corollary assumption were occasionally reported. Yet, evidence of unsaturation gained little traction, with acceptance of the prevailing framework motivated by three considerations: (1) leaf water potentials measured by either thermocouple psychrometry or the Scholander pressure chamber are largely consistent with the framework; (2) being able to assume near saturation of intercellular air spaces was transformational to leaf gas exchange analysis; and (3) there has been no obvious mechanism to explain a variable, liquid‐phase resistance in the leaf mesophyll. Here, we review the evidence that refutes the assumption of universal, near saturation of air spaces in leaves. Refining the prevailing paradigm with respect to this assumption provides opportunities for identifying and developing mechanisms for increased plant productivity in the face of increasing evaporative demand imposed by global climate change.
Endometroid type endometrial cancer after surgery: unravelling the interplay of sleep, fatigue, and psychological well‐being
Authors: Sanci Muzaffer , Görgülü Gökşen , Can Behzat
Published: June 2024

Background

Endometrioid carcinoma, originating in the endometrium glandular cells, is often detected early and treated by surgery. However, post‐treatment life quality remains poorly studied, explicitly focusing on sleep quality, fatigue, and depression.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional, observational study, 147 female patients with endometrioid‐type endometrial carcinoma were evaluated using standardised tools—Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Fatigue Assessment Scale (FAS), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Patients were categorised based on sleep quality and depression levels. The study employed correlation and regression analyses to examine the relationships among these variables.

Results

No correlations were found between sociodemographic or lifestyle variables and sleep quality, fatigue, or depression (P > 0.05). A strong correlation was identified between PSQI and FAS (r = 0.623; P < 0.001), PSQI and BDI (r = 0.291; P < 0.001), and FAS and BDI (r = 0.413; P < 0.001). Fatigue and tumour grade were potential predictors of poor sleep. Sleep quality and depression predicted fatigue, while only fatigue was a predictor for depression. Radiotherapy and external radiation rates were notably higher in the mild depression group.

Conclusions

Our study suggests an imperative for integrated multi‐disciplinary approaches that focus on medical and psychological aspects of patient care to enhance long‐term well‐being and quality of life.
Lifelong traumatic events, social support, and health‐related quality of life among older adults
Authors: Nistoreanu‐Neculau Bianca , Măirean Cornelia , Nistoreanu‐Neculau Alice
Published: June 2024

Background

The present study aimed to investigate the relation between lifelong exposure to traumatic life events, social support, and health‐related quality of life (QOL) in a sample of older people.

Method

A sample of 172 participants (mean age = 68.81, SD = 7.15; 68.6% female and 31.4% male) was involved in this study. The participants completed scales measuring lifelong exposure to traumatic events, social support, and health‐related QOL.

Results

The results showed that lifelong exposure to traumatic events was negatively related to physical and mental health‐related QOL. Moreover, social support moderated the relation between traumatic life events exposure and mental health‐related QOL.

Discussion

Geriatric services could identify and implement adequate measures to provide social support and to improve different dimensions of QOL among older adults.
The impact of CSF‐filled cavities on scalp EEG and its implications
Authors: Piai Vitória , Oostenveld Robert , Schoffelen Jan Mathijs , Piastra Maria Carla
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have found electroencephalogram (EEG) amplitude and scalp topography differences between neurotypical and neurological/neurosurgical groups, being interpreted at the cognitive level. However, these comparisons are invariably accompanied by anatomical changes. Critical to EEG are the so‐called volume currents, which are affected by the spatial distribution of the different tissues in the head. We investigated the effect of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)‐filled cavities on simulated EEG scalp data. We simulated EEG scalp potentials for known sources using different volume conduction models: a reference model (i.e., unlesioned brain) and models with realistic CSF‐filled cavities gradually increasing in size. We used this approach for a single source close or far from the CSF‐lesion cavity, and for a scenario with a distributed configuration of sources (i.e., a “cognitive event‐related potential effect”). The magnitude and topography errors between the reference and lesion models were quantified. For the single‐source simulation close to the lesion, the CSF‐filled lesion modulated signal amplitude with more than 17% magnitude error and topography with more than 9% topographical error. Negligible modulation was found for the single source far from the lesion. For the multisource simulations of the cognitive effect, the CSF‐filled lesion modulated signal amplitude with more than 6% magnitude error and topography with more than 16% topography error in a nonmonotonic fashion. In conclusion, the impact of a CSF‐filled cavity cannot be neglected for scalp‐level EEG data. Especially when group‐level comparisons are made, any scalp‐level attenuated, aberrant, or absent effects are difficult to interpret without considering the confounding effect of CSF.
Phylogenomic reconstruction influenced by assembly and annotation parameters: Using whole genome data to unravel the relationships of Spionidae (Annelida)
Authors: Bogantes Viktoria E. , Meiβner Karin , Waits Damien S. , Kocot Kevin M. , Halanych Kenneth M.
Published: June 2024

Most efforts at improving accuracy in phylogenomic reconstructions have focused on improving tree‐building methods or orthology determination. Even though the use of whole genome sequence or transcriptome data is increasing, the degree to which accurate genome assembly and annotation influence phylogenetic inference has not been well explored. Here, we use low‐coverage whole genome sequencing of spionid annelids to explore the impact of different assemblers and annotation strategies on tree reconstruction. We also produce a phylogenetic hypothesis that spans the breadth of Spionidae, examining the current systematics of the group, which is based on morphological parsimony analyses and classical taxonomy. Our results show that both assembly and annotation can have important consequences for the pool of loci that may be available for tree reconstruction. When an identical phylogenomic pipeline is used, differences in assembly and annotation can account for variation in reconstructed topologies. Interestingly, the completeness and depth of the data used for training annotation software (i.e. data from model systems) appear to be more important, by some measures, than the degree of phylogenetic relatedness of the organism from which training data are drawn. Despite variation in recovered topologies, the recognised subfamily Spioninae is nested within Nerininae, suggesting that diagnostic characters of Nerininae (e.g. thick egg membrane, short‐headed sperm) are symplesiomorphies of Spionidae rather than apomorphies of a particular subclade. With the increased use of genomic data, our results advocate for a broader consideration of how assembly and annotation may impact data matrices used in phylogenomic analyses.
Acute neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and muscle oxygenation responses to low‐intensity aerobic interval exercises with blood flow restriction
Authors: Lavigne Colin , Mons Valentin , Grange Maxime , Blain Grégory M.
Published: June 2024

We investigated the influence of short‐ and long‐interval cycling exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) on neuromuscular fatigue, shear stress and muscle oxygenation, potent stimuli to BFR‐training adaptations. During separate sessions, eight individuals performed short‐ (24 × 60 s/30 s; SI) or long‐interval (12 × 120 s/60 s; LI) trials on a cycle ergometer, matched for total work. One leg exercised with (BFR‐leg) and the other without (CTRL‐leg) BFR. Quadriceps fatigue was quantified using pre‐ to post‐interval changes in maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), potentiated twitch force (QT) and voluntary activation (VA). Shear rate was measured by Doppler ultrasound at cuff release post‐intervals. Vastus lateralis tissue oxygenation was measured by near‐infrared spectroscopy during exercise. Following the initial interval, significant (P < 0.05) declines in MVC and QT were found in both SI and LI, which were more pronounced in the BFR‐leg, and accounted for approximately two‐thirds of the total reduction at exercise termination. In the BFR‐leg, reductions in MVC (–28 ± 15%), QT (–42 ± 17%), and VA (–15 ± 17%) were maximal at exercise termination and persisted up to 8 min post‐exercise. Exercise‐induced muscle deoxygenation was greater (P < 0.001) in the BFR‐leg than CTRL‐leg and perceived pain was more in LI than SI (P < 0.014). Cuff release triggered a significant (P < 0.001) shear rate increase which was consistent across trials. Exercise‐induced neuromuscular fatigue in the BFR‐leg exceeded that in the CTRL‐leg and was predominantly of peripheral origin. BFR also resulted in diminished muscle oxygenation and elevated shear stress. Finally, short‐interval trials resulted in comparable neuromuscular and haemodynamic responses with reduced perceived pain compared to long‐intervals.
Self-Oscillation of a Liquid Crystal Elastomer String-Mass System Under Constant Gradient Temperature
Authors: Ge Dali , Liang Haiyi , Li Kai
Published: June 2024

Recent experiments have found that a fiber-mass system can self-oscillate along the vertical direction under a non-uniform temperature field, which necessitates significant vertical space. To address the challenge in adapting to situations with limited vertical space, the current work introduces a self-oscillating string-mass system, comprising of a mass ball and a thermally responsive liquid crystal elastomer string exposed to a constant gradient temperature. By employing theoretical modeling and numerical simulation, we have identified two motion regimes of the system, namely, the static regime and the self-oscillation regime, and elucidated the mechanism of self-oscillation. Utilizing the analytical method, we derived the expressions for bifurcation point, amplitude, and frequency of the self-oscillation, and investigated the impact of system parameters on these aspects, which were verified by numerical solutions. Compared to a fiber-mass system, the string-mass system has superior stability to deal with small horizontal disturbances, can amplify its amplitude and frequency limited by small thermal deformation of material, and saves a significant amount of vertical space. Given these attributes, such self-oscillating string-mass system presents novel possibilities for designing energy harvesters, active machinery, and soft robots.
What to Consider at the Development of Educational Programs and Courses About Next-Generation Cyber-Physical Systems?
Authors: Horváth Imre , Erden Zühal
Published: June 2024

We live in an age in which new things are emerging faster than their deep understanding. This statement, in particular, applies to doing research and educating university students concerning next-generation cyber-physical systems (NG-CPSs). The fast evolution of this system paradigm would have expected a rapid and comprehensive paradigmatic change in research and education concerning this family of systems. However, this has not happened yet. Seeking a sufficient explanation, this paper reviews the current literature and attempts to cast light on the most significant recent developments in the field of NG-CPSs. The main assumptions of the authors are that research and education should appear in harmony in academic knowledge acquisition and distribution processes and that the academic education of NG-CPSs should be organized and conducted according to a defendable future vision. Combining the results of a broadly based study of the literature with prognostic critical thinking and personal experiences, this review-based position paper first discusses the current socio-techno-scientific environment, the involved stakeholders, and the demands and two approaches of truly systems-oriented education. Then, it concentrates on (i) the recognized limitations of mono- and interdisciplinary research, (ii) supradisciplinary organization of research, and (iii) transdisciplinary knowledge generation for NG-CPSs. As main contributions, the paper (i) identifies and analyzes the latest theoretical, engineering, and technological developments, (ii) reveals the major trends and their presumably significant implications, and (iii) presents several thought-provoking findings and makes propositions about the desirable actions.
Development of Rail Anchor Testing Through Literature Review of CWR Buckling Resistance Evaluation
Authors: Rodriguez Juan , Zhou Siang , Tarawneh Constantine M. , Sanchez Alberto , Salazar-Flores Teresa , Rahmaninezhad Mustapha , Gorabi Hameem
Published: June 2024

Continuously welded rail (CWR) is among the most used railroad systems worldwide with great improvements compared to jointed tracks, including refined ride quality, increased fatigue life of track and rolling stock, and reduced maintenance costs. Rail buckling is one of the key remaining issues for CWRs to further reduce safety hazards and infrastructure deterioration, and save required track retrofit material and efforts. CWR buckling is induced by combined longitudinal, lateral, and torsional forces on the track that are caused by the synergy of rail components, the loading from moving trains, the interaction between track and substructure, and the effect of thermal variations. A systematic evaluation of factors that contribute to rail longitudinal, lateral, and torsional stiffnesses and a thorough investigation of their interactions are critical to understand rail buckling and enhance buckling resistance on CWR. This paper compiles, summarizes, and interprets existing research related to rail buckling resistance, considering parameters such as time-dependent neutral temperature of the tracks, the type of trains, various track resistors (rails, sleepers, and ballasts), and other accessories (anchors and fasteners). A discussion of previous experiments that studied resistors and rail buckling resistances is presented, which guides development of an experimental arrangements as part of an on-going large-scale rail resistance testing project in Edinburg, Tx. The information summarized in this article greatly points out additional needs for experimental and numerical studies, enlightens future research, and provides structured background for prospective improvements on rail buckling and stiffnesses of CWR.