bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary origin of the nervous system from Ctenophora prospective
Authors: Sachkova Maria Y.
Published: February 2024

Nervous system is one of the key adaptations underlying the evolutionary success of the majority of animal groups. Ctenophores (or comb jellies) are gelatinous marine invertebrates that were probably the first lineage to diverge from the rest of animals. Due to the key phylogenetic position and multiple unique adaptations, the noncentralized nervous system of comb jellies has been in the center of the debate around the origin of the nervous system in the animal kingdom and whether it happened only once or twice. Here, we discuss the latest findings in ctenophore neuroscience and multiple challenges on the way to build a clear evolutionary picture of the origin of the nervous system.
The EASEMENT study: A multicentre, observational, cross‐sectional study to evaluate patient preferences, treatment satisfaction, quality of life, and healthcare resource use in patients with multiple myeloma receiving injectable‐containing or fully oral therapies
Authors: Ayto Robert , Annibali Ombretta , Biedermann Patricia , Roset Montserrat , Sánchez Emilio , Kotb Rami
Published: February 2024

Objective

As multiple myeloma (MM) therapies advance, understanding patients', caregivers', and physicians' perspectives on, and satisfaction with, available treatment options and their impact on quality of life (QoL), is important.

Methods

EASEMENT is a real‐world, observational, cross‐sectional study conducted in 19 sites within the UK, Canada, and Italy using retrospective chart reviews and surveys. Enrolled patients had clinical history available since diagnosis and had received ≥1 cycle of their current line of therapy. Primary objectives were to describe patient/caregiver QoL (EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire), patient preference for oral/injectable therapies (single discrete‐choice question), and patient satisfaction (TSQM‐9 questionnaire).

Results

Between October 2018 and March 2020, 399 patients were enrolled (n = 192 newly diagnosed multiple myeloma [NDMM], n = 206 relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma [RRMM], n = 1 missing). Among NDMM and RRMM patients, 78%/22% and 42%/58% were receiving injectables/orals, respectively. Both NDMM and RRMM patients significantly preferred orals versus injectables (p < .0001). No significant differences were reported in treatment satisfaction or QoL, but treatment convenience favoured orals over injectables with near significance (p = .053).

Conclusion

MM patients perceived greater convenience and preference for orals versus injectables. Oral treatments are useful for patients who cannot or prefer not to travel to clinics, or cannot perform self‐injection within the community.
Clinical implications of additional chromosomal abnormalities in adult acute myeloid leukemia with inv (16)/t(16;16)/CBFB::MYH11
Authors: Gao Juehua , Santana‐Santos Lucas , Fu Lucy , Alvey Emily , Chen Qing , Wolniak Kristy , Xia Zongjun , Aqil Barina , Behdad Amir , Ji Peng , Sukhanova Madina , Abaza Yasmin , Altman Jessica K. , Chen Yi‐Hua , Lu Xinyan
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study assesses the clinical significance of additional cytogenetic abnormalities (ACAs) and/or the deletion of 3′CBFB (3′CBFBdel) resulting in unbalanced CBFB::MYH11 fusion in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with inv (16)/t(16;16)/CBFB::MYH11.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the clinicopathologic features of 47 adult de novo AML with inv (16)/t(16;16)/CBFB::MYH11 fusion. There were 44 balanced and 3 unbalanced CBFB::MYH11 fusions. Given the low frequency of unbalanced cases, the latter group was combined with 19 published cases (N = 22) for statistic and meta‐analysis.

Results

Both balanced and unbalanced cases were characterized by frequent ACAs (56.5% and 72.7%, respectively), with +8, +22, and del(7q) as the most frequent abnormalities. The unbalanced group tends to be younger individuals (p = .04) and is associated with a lower remission rate (p = .02), although the median overall survival (OS) was not statistically different (p = .2868). In the balanced group, “ACA” subgroup had higher mortality (p = .013) and shorter OS (p = .011), and patients with relapsed disease had a significantly shorter OS (p = .0011). Cox multivariate regression analysis confirmed that ACAs and history of disease relapse are independent risk factors, irrespective of disease relapse status. In the combined cohort, cases with ACAs had shorter OS than those with “Sole” abnormality (p = .0109).

Conclusions

ACAs are independent high‐risk factors in adult AML with inv (16)/t(16;16)/CBFB::MYH11 fusion and should be integrated for risk stratification in this disease. Larger studies are needed to assess the clinical significance of the unbalanced CBFB::MYH11 fusion resulting from the 3′CBFBdel.
Preoperative structural–functional coupling at the default mode network predicts surgical outcomes of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Zhou Chunyao , Xie Fangfang , Wang Dongcui , Huang Xiaoting , Guo Danni , Du Yangsa , Xiao Ling , Liu Dingyang , Xiao Bo , Yang Zhiquan , Feng Li
Published: February 2024

Objective

Structural–functional coupling (SFC) has shown great promise in predicting postsurgical seizure recurrence in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). In this study, we aimed to clarify the global alterations in SFC in TLE patients and predict their surgical outcomes using SFC features.

Methods

This study analyzed presurgical diffusion and functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 71 TLE patients and 48 healthy controls (HCs). TLE patients were categorized into seizure‐free (SF) and non‐seizure‐free (nSF) groups based on postsurgical recurrence. Individual functional connectivity (FC), structural connectivity (SC), and SFC were quantified at the regional and modular levels. The data were compared between the TLE and HC groups as well as among the TLE, SF, and nSF groups. The features of SFC, SC, and FC were categorized into three datasets: the modular SFC dataset, regional SFC dataset, and SC/FC dataset. Each dataset was independently integrated into a cross‐validated machine learning model to classify surgical outcomes.

Results

Compared with HCs, the visual and subcortical modules exhibited decoupling in TLE patients (p < .05). Multiple default mode network (DMN)‐related SFCs were significantly higher in the nSF group than in the SF group (p < .05). Models trained using the modular SFC dataset demonstrated the highest predictive performance. The final prediction model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of .893 with an overall accuracy of .887.

Significance

Presurgical hyper‐SFC in the DMN was strongly associated with postoperative seizure recurrence. Furthermore, our results introduce a novel SFC‐based machine learning model to precisely classify the surgical outcomes of TLE.
The distribution and mobility of academic talents in the Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macao Greater Bay Area
Authors: Lin Songyue , Liu Jin , Hu Ying
Published: February 2024

The Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macao Greater Bay Area is becoming a new world economic centre, but research on the law of academic talent mobility in the Greater Bay Area is still scarce at present. This study builds an overall analysis framework, introduces the curriculum vitae analysis method, and systematically collects resumes of academics from universities in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao. Through this, we try to find the stock, distribution, study origin and inflow of academic talents in the Greater Bay Area, the internal mobility of academic talents in the Greater Bay Area, and the global mobility network of academic talents in the Greater Bay Area. Academic mobility is a significant topic in higher education research, closely related to higher education's competitiveness and attractiveness. This research is of positive significance for clarifying the basic situation of academic talents in the Greater Bay Area, scientifically carrying out talent planning during the new stage of China's national economic and social development, and scientifically attracting talents based on the law of talent mobility.
Caries indicators in relation to healthcare access and hygienic‐dietary habits in Spanish preschoolers
Authors: Prieto‐Regueiro Beatriz , Gómez‐Santos Gladys , Reichard‐Monefeldt Guillermo , Diéguez‐Pérez Montserrat
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Dental caries continues to be a public healthcare problem due to its high prevalence and morbidity. It was proposed to evaluate caries indicators in relation to healthcare access and hygienic‐dietary habits in Spanish preschoolers.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out on a random sample consisting of 343 patients ranging from 3 to 5 years of age in the primary care setting, the main measurements were: dental care access, hygienic‐dietary habits, and caries registration according to WHO criteria.

Results

The prevalence of caries was 35.3% and mean ± standard deviation (SD) dft was 1.51 ± 2.93. Preschoolers who had ever visited the dentist had a higher dft occurrence than those who had never attended the dentist. The lower prevalence of caries was significantly associated with the frequency of two daily brushings versus non‐daily brushing (p = 0.007; 25.3% vs. 47.1%) and was 10.7% lower in patients who had the habit of night brushing (p = 0.041). The consumption of sugary liquids between meals implied a higher dft index.

Conclusions

The high prevalence of early childhood caries and the dental care access associated with poor oral health suggest the need to implement a multidisciplinary oral healthcare program that involves both healthcare and dental healthcare professionals in Primary Health Care Units without forgetting the participation of the community and local administrations.
Network analysis of symptoms, physiological, psychological and environmental risk factors based on unpleasant symptom theory in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Wang Yaqi , Xu Xueying , Lv Qingyun , Zhao Yue , Zhang Xiaonan , Zang Xiaoying
Published: February 2024

Background

Somatic symptoms and related factors in patients with chronic heart failure have been extensively researched. However, more insight into the complex interconnections among these constructs is needed, as most studies focus on them independently from each other.

Aims

The aim of this study is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how somatic symptoms and related factors are interconnected among patients with chronic heart failure.

Methods

A total of 379 patients were enrolled. Network analysis was used to explore the interconnections among the somatic symptoms and related risk factors.

Results

The four core symptoms of chronic heart failure were daytime dyspnea, dyspnea when lying down, fatigue and difficulty sleeping. Within the network, the edge weights of depression–anxiety, subjective social support–objective social support, and subjective social support–social support availability were more significant than others. Among physiological, psychological and environmental factors, the edge weights of NYHA–dyspnea, depression–difficulty sleeping, and social support availability–dyspnea when lying down were more significant than others. Depression and anxiety had the highest centrality, indicating stronger and closer connections with other nodes.

Conclusions

Psychological and environmental factors stood out in the network, suggesting the potential value of interventions targeting these factors to improve overall health.
Personalized pricing versus showrooming: competition between online and offline retailers
Authors: Ren Zhenzhen , Tian Junfeng , Kang Shurong , Tang Meixian , Tian Jinsong
Published: February 2024

This study examines how personalized pricing affects customers’ showrooming behavior in the duopoly competition with horizontal product differentiation between traditional and online retailers. For the available personalized pricing strategies, we obtained the optimal decisions for both retailers in the scenarios with and without showrooming. Our results indicate that adopting personalized pricing under particular conditions enables each retailer to be more profitable, even in the presence of showrooming purchases. This finding explains why an increasing number of online and offline retailers have implemented personalized pricing based on technical means and consumer purchase records. It is also demonstrated that personalized pricing can counter showrooming behavior of consumers amidst the competition between both retailers, which provides a novel theoretical basis for dealing with cross‐channel shopping in multichannel retail competition. We further clarify how retailers can avoid being trapped in a prisoner's dilemma when both sides have access to personalized pricing. Also, the adoption of personalized pricing can improve consumer surplus and social welfare.
Unique combination of hyaluronic acid and amino acids in the management of patients with a range of moderate‐to‐severe chronic wounds: Evidence from international clinical trials
Authors: Romanelli Marco
Published: February 2024

Chronic wounds present a prolonged burden to patients, their families and healthcare systems. There is evidence that the unique combination of hyaluronic acid (HA) and amino acids (Vulnamin®) promotes re‐epithelialization of wounds and stimulates activation and proliferation of fibroblasts with a significant increase in the regeneration of epithelial cells. Tissue regeneration and tissue repair are considered to be the fundamental activities of this unique combination of HA and amino acids that distinguishes it from other wound healing products. A review of trials over the last 15 years indicates distinct advantages of the unique combination of HA and amino acids, in terms of healing rate and induction of granulation tissue production compared with HA alone.
The role of ecological niche conservatism in the evolution of bird distributional patterns in Mesoamerican seasonally dry forests
Authors: Chan Pak Tsun , Arroyo‐Cabrales Joaquín , Prieto‐Torres David A. , Sánchez‐González Luis A.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Due to its complex biogeographical and ecological history, the seasonally dry forests (SDF) of Mesoamerica are considered a biodiversity hotspot. SDF are currently distributed in relatively large and continuous, but isolated areas, in which there are both high total and endemic species numbers. Among birds, few species are shared across SDF patches; other species are endemic to one of these; and for two species currently endemic to one patch, fossils have been recovered in a different one, suggesting a former widespread distribution in so species, implying that current distributional patterns are probably recent.

Location

Mesoamerican seasonally dry forests.

Methods

We assessed the role of niche divergence/conservatism in the evolution of bird distributional patterns. Using an ecological niche modelling approach, we estimated palaeodistributions for two species currently endemic to the SDF of Yucatan Peninsula (YP), two to the Mesoamerican Pacific Slope (MPS) with fossil record in the YP and two more showing an allopatric pattern. For comparison, we simulated virtual species (VS) matching each pattern, assuming they represent the expected distribution of species in each SDF patch. To test hypothesis of niche conservatism, we assessed the niche equivalence/similarity between the patches represented by the VS, and in each bird species and its VS distributional counterpart.

Results

Our results showed three patterns: (i) no past geographical connectiveness among suitable areas; (ii) niche conservatism, but not equivalence, despite low niche overlap and geographical distance; and (iii) potential niche divergence.

Main Conclusions

For birds currently endemic to the MPS, our results suggest that the absence from the YP may be attributed to the loss of their environmental niche. Widespread species showed either niche conservatism or divergence. YP endemics showed niche divergence. Our results underline the role of niche divergence/conservatism in the evolution of distributional patterns in Mesoamerican SDF avifauna.
An exploration of gendered differences in cognitive, motivational and emotional aspects of game‐based math learning
Authors: Zhang Lu , Lei Yue , Pelton Tim , Pelton Leslee Francis , Shang Junjie
Published: February 2024

Background

Digital game‐based learning (DGBL) has the potential to provide a gender inclusive learning environment for children.

Objective

The present study aimed to explore gendered differences among primary school learners in grades three, four, and five within the context of game‐based fraction learning from cognitive, motivational and emotional perspectives.

Methods

Two hundred and sixty‐nine participants completed a pre‐test and post‐test on fraction conceptual knowledge and surveys in math anxiety, intrinsic motivation and self‐efficacy. In addition, facial expression detection technology was employed to evaluate emotional states.

Results

In general, within the DGBL environment, boys and girls exhibited similar performance in both their understanding of fraction concepts and their motivational aspects. However, gender differences were identified and manifested uniquely across different grade levels. Specifically, third‐grade girls exhibited significantly lower self‐efficacy than boys, but after DGBL intervention, the gender gap in self‐efficacy was no longer significant. Additionally, third‐grade girls achieved significant improvements in both the competence and interest dimensions of their intrinsic motivation, while boys did not show significant improvements. In the fourth grade, girls exhibited a significantly higher frequency of angry expressions compared to boys during gameplay. Fifth‐grade girls' cognitive performance appeared to be less correlated with motivational factors compared to boys.

Conclusions

The results suggest that DGBL may help narrow the gender difference in math learning, with girls potentially benefiting more from DGBL than boys.
The Ideational Power of Strategic Autonomy in EU Security and External Economic Policies
Authors: Juncos Ana E. , Vanhoonacker Sophie
Published: February 2024

This article undertakes a comparative analysis of European Union security and external economic policies to explore the different trajectories of strategic autonomy (SA) in these two domains. In so doing, it contributes to a better understanding of endogenous drivers of policy change in response to geopoliticising pressures. Drawing on discursive institutionalism, it analyses three dimensions of ideational power: power in, power through and power over. The evidence, based on documentary analysis and interviews, demonstrates that though SA presented a more significant challenge to pre‐established paradigms in external economic relations, the role of the Commission as an ideational entrepreneur, supported by its coercive power, facilitated the adoption of the idea of (open) SA. Conversely, French President Emmanuel Macron was unable to persuade others of the adoption of a sovereigntist conception of SA in security, with the exception of defence industrial policy, where the Commission enjoys budgetary power and competences.
Recent developments in tomato drying techniques: A comprehensive review
Authors: Pravitha M. , Dipika Agrahar Murugkar , Ajesh Kumar V.
Published: February 2024

Tomatoes, a highly perishable agricultural product, are commonly dried to extend their shelf life. They serve as raw materials in various domains, including direct consumption and as key ingredients in processed foods, functional foods, and nutraceuticals. However, producing dried tomato products with quality attributes equivalent to fresh tomatoes, such as nutrient content, appearance, flavor, texture, and reconstitution properties, poses significant challenges. Several research attempts have been made to evaluate the feasibility of different drying methods for tomatoes. Solar drying, hot air drying, and spray drying are commonly employed techniques, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Conventional solar drying practices often result in extended drying times and undesirable quality parameters. Hence, it is imperative to adopt enhanced solar drying techniques for the large‐scale production of dried tomato products. Additionally, hybrid‐drying approaches can be explored to achieve better quality products with reduced drying times. Pretreatments before drying can also enhance overall drying performance. Combining conventional drying with novel drying methods, precise selection of drying parameters and pretreatments are demonstrated as efficient ways to improve the drying rate while preserving food quality. Modeling the drying process is also critical for designing large‐scale dryers, selecting appropriate drying conditions, maintaining product quality, and process optimization. Therefore, this article aims to provide detailed insight into existing drying methods with their unique features and modeling approaches, which may enable professionals and scientists to choose better and optimized tomato drying method to deliver the highest quality product to consumers.

Practical Applications

Processing tomatoes as dried products is a potential area to explore to minimize their postharvest loss. Lack of awareness regarding how to process, what parameters to consider, and which method to employ are hurdles in adopting and popularizing dried tomato products. Hence, it is crucial to consolidate the key findings pertaining to tomato drying from various methods into a unified platform. This will provide valuable guidance to future researchers and enable consumers to make informed decisions when selecting the most suitable drying method. Therefore, this comprehensive review aims to elucidate the current practices in tomato drying, highlighting their potential benefits and limitations.
Psychosocial stressors associated with frailty in community‐dwelling older adults in the United States
Authors: Shakya Shamatree , Silva Susan G. , McConnell Eleanor S. , McLaughlin Sara J. , Cary Michael P.
Published: February 2024

Background

Frailty is multifactorial; however, psychosocial stressors contributing to frailty are poorly understood. This study aimed to examine whether gender, race/ ethnicity, and education are associated with differential exposure to psychosocial stressors, determine psychosocial stressors contributing to frailty, and explore the mediating psychosocial stressors pathway.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved 7679 community‐dwelling older adults (≥65) from the Health and Retirement Study (2006 and 2008 waves). Psychosocial stressors such as loneliness, low subjective social status, financial strain, poor neighborhood cohesion, everyday discrimination, and traumatic life events were measured. Frailty was defined by the Fried phenotype measure. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to examine the association of gender, race/ethnicity, and education with psychosocial stressors, psychosocial stressors associated with frailty, and the mediating psychosocial stressors pathway.

Results

Females experienced greater financial strain but lower discrimination (both p < 0.05). Older adults who identified as Hispanic, Black, and racially or ethnically minoritized experienced low subjective social status, high financial strain, low neighborhood cohesion, and high discrimination than their White counterparts (all p < 0.05). Those with lower education experienced high loneliness, low subjective social status, high financial strain, low neighborhood cohesion but lower traumatic life events (all p < 0.05). Psychosocial stressors: High loneliness, low subjective social status, high financial strain, and low neighborhood cohesion (all p < 0.05) independently increased the odds of frailty. The mediating pathway of psychosocial stressors was not significant. 

Conclusion

Disparities exist in exposure to psychosocial stressors associated with frailty. Multilevel interventions are needed to reduce the influence of psychosocial stressors on frailty.
Modulation of starch synthesis in Arabidopsis via phytochrome B‐mediated light signal transduction
Authors: Shi Qingbiao , Xia Ying , Xue Na , Wang Qibin , Tao Qing , Li Mingjing , Xu Di , Wang Xiaofei , Kong Fanying , Zhang Haisen , Li Gang
Published: February 2024

Starch is a major storage carbohydrate in plants and is critical in crop yield and quality. Starch synthesis is intricately regulated by internal metabolic processes and external environmental cues; however, the precise molecular mechanisms governing this process remain largely unknown. In this study, we revealed that high red to far‐red (high R:FR) light significantly induces the synthesis of leaf starch and the expression of synthesis‐related genes, whereas low R:FR light suppress these processes. Arabidopsis phytochrome B (phyB), the primary R and FR photoreceptor, was identified as a critical positive regulator in this process. Downstream of phyB, basic leucine zipper transcription factor ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL5 (HY5) was found to enhance starch synthesis, whereas the basic helix‐loop‐helix transcription factors PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORs (PIF3, PIF4, and PIF5) inhibit starch synthesis in Arabidopsis leaves. Notably, HY5 and PIFs directly compete for binding to a shared G‐box cis‐element in the promoter region of genes encoding starch synthases GBSS, SS3, and SS4, which leads to antagonistic regulation of their expression and, consequently, starch synthesis. Our findings highlight the vital role of phyB in enhancing starch synthesis by stabilizing HY5 and facilitating PIFs degradation under high R:FR light conditions. Conversely, under low R:FR light, PIFs predominantly inhibit starch synthesis. This study provides insight into the physiological and molecular functions of phyB and its downstream transcription factors HY5 and PIFs in starch synthesis regulation, shedding light on the regulatory mechanism by which plants synchronize dynamic light signals with metabolic cues to module starch synthesis.
The global leadership into malnutrition criteria reveals a high percentage of malnutrition which influences overall survival in patients with gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Clement Dominique S. V. M. , van Leerdam Monique E. , Tesselaar Margot E. T. , Cananea Elmie , Martin Wendy , Weickert Martin O. , Sarker Debashis , Ramage John K. , Srirajaskanthan Rajaventhan
Published: February 2024

Patients with neuroendocrine tumours located in the gastroenteropancreatic tract (GEP‐NETs) and treatment with somatostatin analogues (SSA's) are at risk of malnutrition which has been reported previously evaluating weight loss or body mass index (BMI) only. The global leadership into malnutrition (GLIM) criteria include weight loss, BMI, and sarcopenia, for diagnosing malnutrition. These GLIM criteria have not been assessed in patients with GEP‐NETs on SSA. The effect of malnutrition on overall survival has not been explored before. The aim of this study is to describe the presence of malnutrition in patients with GEP‐NET on SSA based on the GLIM criteria and associate this with overall survival. Cross‐sectional study screening all patients with GEP‐NETs on SSA's for malnutrition using the GLIM criteria. Body composition analysis for sarcopenia diagnosis were performed. Bloods including vitamins, minerals, and lipid profile were collected. Overall survival since the date of nutrition screening was calculated. Uni‐ and multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed to identify malnutrition as risk factor for overall survival. A total of 118 patients, 47% male, with median age 67 years (IQR 56.8–75.0) were included. Overall, malnutrition was present in 88 patients (75%); based on low BMI in 26 (22%) patients, based on weight loss in 35 (30%) patients, and based on sarcopenia in 83 (70%) patients. Vitamin deficiencies were present for vitamin D in 64 patients (54%), and vitamin A in 29 patients (25%). The presence of malnutrition demonstrated a significantly worse overall survival (p‐value = .01). In multivariate analysis meeting 2 or 3 GLIM criteria was significantly associated with worse overall survival (HR 2.16 95% CI 1.34–3.48, p‐value = .002). Weight loss was the most important risk factor out of the 3 GLIM criteria (HR 3.5 95% CI 1.14–10.85, p‐value = .03) for worse overall survival. A high percentage (75%) of patients with GEP‐NETs using a SSA meet the GLIM criteria for malnutrition. Meeting more than 1 GLIM criterium, especially if there is weight loss these are risk factors for worse overall survival.
Reproductive binds: The gendered economy of debt in a Syrian refugee farmworker camp
Authors: Sajadian China
Published: February 2024

Based on 18 months of ethnographic fieldwork at the Lebanese‐Syrian border, this article analyses the gendered economy of debt among Syrian farmworkers in shawish camps, which have for decades supplied the largest and lowest paid seasonal labour force within Lebanon's food system. In turn, it traces how debt relations in these camps expanded as hundreds of thousands of Syrians sought long‐term refuge in Lebanon throughout the war in Syria (2011 to present). Revisiting classic and contemporary agrarian questions of debt from a feminist social reproduction perspective, the article charts how this debt system ultimately deepened the burdens of feminized work in the fields and in the home. Emblematic of debt's ‘reproductive binds’, these camps offer broader insights into how debt reconfigures gendered and generational divisions of labour within displaced agricultural families—and how these conditions are negotiated, contested and reproduced in daily life.
KTWS (Klippel‐Trenaunay‐Weber syndrome): A systematic presentation of a rare disease
Authors: Mofarrah Ramina , Mofarrah Ramin , Gooranorimi Peyman , Emadi Sadaf , Aski Sueshianth Ghobadi
Published: February 2024

Background

Klippel‐Trenaunay‐Weber syndrome (KTWS) is a rare disease with a wide range of manifestations. KTWS is characterized by a clinical triad of varicosities of the extremities, cutaneous vascular malformations, and hypertrophy of soft tissues and long bones. The diagnosis is made clinically supplemented with magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography.

Aim

Hereby we aim to highlight the significance of the possible life‐threatening first‐time presentations associated with the GI system in previously undiagnosed KTWS patients.

Patient

We report the case of a 47‐year‐old male with KTWS, who presented with various symptoms such as rectorrhagia since childhood, digestive problems and abnormal lateral vascular malformations of the left buttock which extended all the way to the leg, vascular malformations of the left fourth and fifth toes as well as soft tissue swelling of the left foot. There was no evidence of other clinical presentations. The patient was hospitalized with severe rectorrhagia and a hemoglobin level of 3/9. Physical examination revealed a blood pressure of 85/55 and pulse rate of 115. Ruptured aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery was found on angiography and subsequently treated with embolization. Dermatologic evaluation showed pitting edema of the left leg and foot and multiple vascular lesions. Thus a diagnosis of KTWS was established. Pulsed dye laser therapy and compression bandage was performed for the patient. The patient's follow‐up was done 3 months after discharge for which the patient was again consulted by a dermatologist and gastroenterologist. Lymphedema of the left leg had improved to a great extend so treatment with compression bandage was continued. Colonoscopy was repeated for the patient to evaluate and control possible active sources of bleeding, due to potential life‐threating complications.

Results

According to previous findings, there have been few case reports of KTWS presenting with gastrointestinal manifestations, fewer of which have covered acute life‐threatening bleedings associated with this system.
Redistribution with needs
Authors: Martínez Ricardo , Moreno‐Ternero Juan D.
Published: February 2024

We take an axiomatic approach to study redistribution problems when agents report income and needs. We formalize axioms reflecting ethical and operational principles such as additivity, impartiality and individual rationality. Different combinations of those axioms characterize three focal rules (laissez faire, full redistribution, and need‐adjusted full redistribution) as well as compromises among them. We also uncover the structure of those compromises exploring the Lorenz dominance criterion as well as majority voting. Our analysis provides an axiomatic justification for a linear income tax system. We conclude our analysis resorting to Eurostat's Household Budget Survey from where we illustrate the different redistribution patterns accounting for needs across European countries.
Nurses' career choice and satisfaction with mental health transition‐to‐practice programs: A cross sectional study
Authors: Alexander Louise , Toomey Nigel , Foster Kim
Published: February 2024

Accessible summary

What Is Known on the Subject?

There are significant issues recruiting nurses into mental health due to several reasons such as dilution of curriculum, and mental health being an unpopular career choice

Transition programs provide nurses entering mental health with orientation, academic and clinical skills, and knowledge.

What the Paper Adds to Existing Knowledge?

Transition programs need to be nuanced to specialty areas (e.g. community) to ensure nurses are given the support necessary to remain working in the field.

Many nurses choose to work in mental health due to a lived or personal experience and as such strengthening wellbeing supports for transitioning nurses is an important role in retention.

What Are the Implications for Practice?

Tailored transition programs can help strengthen mental health nurse role clarity, and support staff retention.

Transition programs should be a segue to formal postgraduate studies in mental health nursing to strengthen professional practice and retention of nurses.

Introduction

Globally, there are consistent issues recruiting staff into the mental health nursing workforce. In Australia, recent efforts to expand the workforce include recruitment of a wider range of nurses in addition to new graduates into mental health transition‐to‐practice programs. Understanding the career motivations of nurses entering the field is an important element of recruitment and retention.

Aim

To describe nurses' satisfaction with their mental health transition program and identify factors influencing their choice of mental health as a career.

Methods

An online cross‐sectional survey with questions on program satisfaction and career choice was responded to by n = 55 enrolled and registered nurses in a mental health transition program.

Results

Nurses reported overall high satisfaction with their program and identified increased time release for professional development and being supernumerary as necessary to support role development. Almost 25% of nurses reported personal experience of mental illness as an influence in choosing a mental health career.

Discussion

Mental health transition programs are important in recruitment and retention and need to be tailored to the needs of a wide range of nurses and include support for staff wellbeing.

Implications for Practice

Tailored transition programs can help strengthen role clarity, and support staff retention.
Citizen security revisited: Whose security/ies are we talking about?
Authors: Marchand Marianne H.
Published: February 2024

This article addresses two issues related to citizen security and its developments in Mexico. First, it analyzes the limits of citizen security in terms of its exclusions and marginalizations as they particularly affect women and migrants. It is argued that citizen security policy does not capture the multilayered security concerns that affect women. As programs of citizen security are primarily directed at public spaces, gender‐based violence, in particular domestic violence, is not included in its conceptualization. Second, migrants in transit are being excluded from citizen security for being noncitizens and thus “underserving subjects.” Moreover, citizen security tends to be place‐bound as it is directed at the community level, while migrants are persons in situations of mobility and therefore escape place‐bound initiatives. The second part of this article focuses on how the current militarization of Mexico's security policy has affected citizen security. It finds that this militarization has deprioritized citizen security, affecting women and migrants in particular.
Real‐time displacement measurement for long‐span bridges using a compact vision‐based system with speed‐optimized template matching
Authors: Wang Miaomin , Xu Fuyou , Koo Ki‐Young , Wang Pinqing
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces a new accelerating algorithm, efficient match slimmer (EMS), specifically designed to lighten computational loads of sophisticated template matching algorithms, enabling these algorithms to be effectively run on single‐board computers. Utilizing EMS in conjunction with a robust template matching algorithm, we have developed Raspberry Vision—a compact, cost‐effective, and real‐time vision‐based system. Its compactness and portability facilitate a practical measurement strategy that not only minimizes the camera‐to‐target distance but also simplifies the camera calibration process in bridge displacement monitoring, thereby enhancing measurement accuracy. The performance of the system is estimated on two operational suspension bridges. The results demonstrate that Raspberry Vision, equipped with the measurement strategy, can significantly improve the measurement accuracy in the long‐span bridge test and is also suitable for cross‐sea bridge measurements.
Exogenous application of pectin triggers stomatal closure and immunity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Tetteh Charles , Luo Sheng , Jin Pinyuan , Hao Xingqian , Sun Min , Fang Nan , Liu Yingjun , Zhang Huajian
Published: February 2024

Pectin has been extensively studied in animal immunity, and exogenous pectin as a food additive can provide protection against inflammatory bowel disease. However, the utility of pectin to improve immunity in plants is still unstudied. Here, we found exogenous application of pectin triggered stomatal closure in Arabidopsis in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Additionally, pectin activated peroxidase and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which subsequently increased cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) and was followed by nitric oxide (NO) production, leading to stomatal closure in an abscisic acid (ABA) and salicylic acid (SA) signalling‐dependent mechanism. Furthermore, pectin enhanced the disease resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (Pst DC3000) with mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MPKs) MPK3/6 activated and upregulated expression of defence‐responsive genes in Arabidopsis. These results suggested that exogenous pectin‐induced stomatal closure was associated with ROS and NO production regulated by ABA and SA signalling, contributing to defence against Pst DC3000 in Arabidopsis.
Biomechanical Research of Three Parallel Cannulated Compression Screws in Oblique Triangle Configuration for Fixation of Femoral Neck Unstable Fractures
Authors: Zhang Ru‐Yi , Zhang Wu‐Peng , Yang Guang‐Min , Wang Dao‐Feng , Su Peng , Zhang Yi , Nie Shao‐Bo , Li Jia , Zhao Zhe , Li Jian‐Tao , Zhang Li‐Cheng , Tang Pei‐Fu
Published: February 2024

Objective

Surgical treatment with internal fixation, specifically percutaneous fixation with three cannulated compression screws (CCSs), is the preferred choice for young and middle‐aged patients. The mechanical advantage of the optimal spatial configuration with three screws provides maximum dispersion and cortical support. We suspect that the spatial proportion of the oblique triangle configuration (OTC) in the cross‐section of the femoral neck isthmus (FNI) may significantly improve shear and fatigue resistance of the fixed structure, thereby stabilizing the internal fixation system in femoral neck fracture (FNF). This study aims to explore the mechanical features of OTC and provide a mechanical basis for its clinical application.

Methods

Twenty Sawbone femurs were prepared as Pauwels type III FNF models and divided equally into two fixation groups: OTC and inverted equilateral triangle configuration (IETC). Three 7.3 mm diameter cannulated compression screws (CCSs) were used for fixation. The specimens of FNF after screw internal fixation were subjected to static loading and cyclic loading tests, respectively, with five specimens for each test. Axial stiffness, 5 mm failure load, ultimate load, shear displacement, and frontal rotational angle of two fragments were evaluated. In the cyclic loading test, the load sizes were 700 N, 1400 N, and 2100 N, respectively, and the fracture end displacement was recorded. Results were presented as means ± SD. Data with normal distributions were compared by the Student's t test.

Results

In the static loading test, the axial stiffness, ultimate load, shear displacement, and frontal rotational angle of two fragments were (738.64 vs. 620.74) N/mm, (2957.61 vs. 2643.06) N, (4.67 vs. 5.39) mm, and (4.01 vs. 5.52)° (p < 0.05), respectively. Comparison between the femoral head displacement after 10,000 cycles of 700N cyclic loading and total displacement after 20,000 cycles of 700–1400N cyclic loading showed the OTC group was less than the IETC group (p < 0.05). A comparison of femoral head displacement after 10,000 cycles of 1400N and 2100N cycles and total displacement after 30,000 cycles of 700–2100N cycles showed the OTC group was less than another group, but the difference was not significant (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

When three CCSs are inserted in parallel to fix FNF, the OTC of three screws has obvious biomechanical advantages, especially in shear resistance and early postoperative weight‐bearing, which provides a mechanical basis for clinical selection of ideal spatial configuration for unstable FNF.
Drought responses and carbon allocation strategies of poplar with different leaf maturity
Authors: Yao Yuan , Xia Linchao , Yang Le , Liu Ruixuan , Zhang Sheng
Published: February 2024

Leaf characteristics can reflect the adaptation of trees to drought stress. However, the effect of leaf maturity on drought stress has been neglected, leading to uncertainty in inferring individual tree responses to drought from leaves. The allocation strategy of photosynthetic carbon between leaf organs (fully expanded young and old leaves) under drought stress remains unclear. Poplar is a diverse and widespread tree species in arid and semi‐arid regions. Here, three poplar genotypes (Populus cathayana, P. × euramericana ‘Nanlin 895’, and P. alba × P. tremula var. glandulosa) were selected and exposed to different watering regimes. The responses and carbon allocation strategies of leaves with different maturity to drought were investigated using a combination of leaf traits and 13C pulse labelling technique. The results showed that (1) fully expanded young leaves had better osmotic regulation and antioxidant capacity than aged leaves under drought stress. (2) Aged leaves acted as a carbon source during water deficit, where their photosynthetic products were transferred and supplied to upper young leaves to promote stronger photosynthesis in young leaves to acquire resources for tree growth. This study highlights that the effect of leaf maturity should be considered in the future when investigating the effects of drought on woody plants, especially for continuously growing tree species. Therefore, our study not only demonstrates the existence of leaf‐age‐dependent responses to drought in poplar but also provides new insights into carbon allocation at the leaf level.
From Cognitive Agents to Cognitive Systems: Theoretical, Methodological, and Empirical Developments of van Gelder's (1998) “Dynamical Hypothesis”
Authors: Nguyen Tri D. , Magaldino Corey M. , Landfair Jayci T. , Amazeen Polemnia G. , Amazeen Eric L.
Published: February 2024

Over two decades have passed since the publication of van Gelder's (1998) “dynamical hypothesis.” In that paper, van Gelder proposed that cognitive agents were not digital computers—per the representational computational approach—but dynamical systems. The evolution of the dynamical hypothesis was driven by parallel advances in three areas.Theoretically, a deeper understanding of genetics, biology, neuroscience, and cognitive science inspired questions about how systems within each domain dynamically interact and extend their effects across spatiotemporal scales.Methodologically, more sophisticated and domain‐general tools allowed researchers to discover, model, and quantify system dynamics, structure, and patterns across multiple scales to generate a more comprehensive system‐level understanding of behaviors.Empirically, we can analyze a system's behavior while preserving its natural dynamics, revealing evidence that the reductionist approach leads to an incomplete understanding of the components and the overall system. Researchers have traditionally reduced a complex system into its component processes and assumed that the parts can be recombined to explain the whole. These three advances fundamentally altered our understanding of a “cognitive agent:” How their behaviors are driven by long‐range coordination across multiple processes, how the interdependent and nested structure of interacting variables produces behaviors that are greater than the sum of its parts, and how environmental constraints shape adaptive yet stable behavioral patterns.
Voluntary blood donation preferences in China: A discrete choice experiment among experienced and inexperienced donors
Authors: Cao Chuqing , Wang Jing , Guo Tianyu , Hu Xinwen , Li Bo , Wu Caixia , Liu Zhong , Pan Stephen W.
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

Due partly to an ageing population, China faces an increasingly dire blood shortage crisis requiring greater voluntary blood donations. A better understanding of blood donation preferences can inform blood donation policies and potentially increase donations. We used an online survey and discrete choice experiment to achieve our study objective: identify the most influential structural facilitators and barriers to voluntary blood donation in China.

Materials and Methods

First, we identified six structural attributes (travel time, venue, donation volume, paid leave, scheduling and gifts) that were hypothesized to influence voluntary blood donation; attribute selection was based on a literature review and qualitative interviews. Second, a d‐efficient design with 36 choice sets and 9 blocks was developed. Participants were asked to complete four choice sets, and in each choice set, they were asked to choose from three options: two voluntary blood donation scenarios and a ‘Do not donate blood’ option. Study participants were recruited through an online survey platform company in China. Voluntary blood donation preferences and preferences by blood donation history were estimated with random‐parameter logit models and interaction terms.

Results

In 2022, 1185 individuals enrolled in the study. Most participants had college education (92%). Generally, participants preferred longer paid leave, lower blood donation volumes and gifts after donation. Based on interaction analyses, experienced and inexperienced donors exhibited similar preferences.

Conclusion

Campaigns to increase voluntary blood donation rates in China should consider implementing paid leave after voluntary blood donation, lower blood donation volumes and small gifts conferred after donation.