bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the impact of pulsed light treatment on microbial and enzyme inactivation and quality attributes in fresh‐cut watermelon
Authors: Jaiswal Monica , Srivastava Brijesh
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the impact of pulsed light (PL) applied at a fluence of 4–12 J cm−2 (complying with U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards) on fresh‐cut watermelon, focusing on its efficacy in inactivating various food‐borne pathogenic gram‐positive (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and gram‐negative (Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella) bacteria. The inactivation data were used to fit the log‐linear and Weibull kinetic models. Additionally, the impact of PL on physicochemical properties, lycopene content, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and pectin methylesterase (PME) residual activity (RA) was studied. The results demonstrated that the inactivation rate increases with the increase in fluence. Salmonella was most sensitive to PL, resulting in a reduction of 2.55 ± 0.08 log CFU g−1 and a higher kmax, whereas S. aureus was most resistant, with a reduction of 1.87 ± 0.24 log CFU g−1 and a lower kmax. The Weibull model was the best to predict the inactivation kinetics based on standard statistics and information theory criteria. For all assayed food‐borne pathogens, the inactivation curve showed non‐linearity with upward concavity except for L. monocytogenes, which followed a concave downward curve (β >1). Results showed that PL was effective in the retention of color, firmness, pH levels, total soluble solids, and titratable acidity, and also had a positive effect on enhancing the levels of essential components such as lycopene, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. Additionally, the PME RA significantly decreased with an increase in fluence due to structural modification. Therefore, PL can be explored to enhance fresh‐cut watermelon's safety and quality attributes.

Practical Applications

The implementation of this research holds significant potential for practical benefits in the fresh‐cut fruit industry. The findings could revolutionize processing practices, ensuring enhanced microbial safety, enzyme inactivation, and an extended shelf‐life of fresh‐cut watermelon. The study strongly contributes to preserving the desirable texture, color, and overall quality of the product, enhancing the retention of lycopene and other valuable antioxidants by standardizing the pulsed light treatment parameters while adhering to U.S. Food and Drug Administration standards for food application. Moreover, this research will scientifically contribute to addressing the critical challenges of foodborne outbreaks in the fresh‐cut fruit sector while providing consumers with a healthy, convenient food choice.
Non‐destructive grading technique for mangoes using a flexible impedance sensing system and YOLOv5s_CBAM
Authors: Huang Wentao , Wang Yangfeng , Wang Yunpeng , Zhang Xiaoshuan
Published: May 2024

Flexible sensors for food quality control are experiencing rapid development. The purpose of this study is to address the time‐consuming issues associated with traditional fruit grading methods by utilizing a homemade flexible impedance sensing system (FISS). A customized spiral slide system was innovatively designed in the study to simulate the grading process on a fruit assembly line with multimodal features for low power consumption and non‐destructive evaluation. FISS integrated components such as a camera, spiral slider, 3D printed slider, latex ball, flexible impedance electrodes, and back‐end measurement circuits and successfully achieved accurate food quality assessment by using a visual classification model for primary grading based on YOLOv5s‐CBAM and an impedance feature classification model for secondary grading of mangoes based on the coefficient of variation method and threshold coefficient method. With an impressive assessment accuracy of 97.07% and a classification speed of up to 3 s/piece, the system successfully classified mangoes into seven grades covering overripe, fully ripe, ripe, unevenly ripe, unripe, underripe, and rotten states. By eliminating the reliance on complex instruments and expensive equipment, FISS provides a cost‐effective alternative for food quality control, significantly reducing operational costs.

Practical applications

The purpose of this study is to address the time‐consuming issues associated with traditional fruit grading methods by utilizing a homemade flexible impedance sensing system (FISS). A customized spiral slide system was innovatively designed in the study to simulate the grading process on a fruit assembly line with multimodal features for low power consumption and non‐destructive evaluation. FISS integrated components such as a camera, spiral slider, 3D printed slider, latex ball, flexible impedance electrodes, and back‐end measurement circuits and successfully achieved accurate food quality assessment by using a visual classification model for primary grading based on YOLOv5s‐CBAM and an impedance feature classification model for secondary grading of mangoes based on the coefficient of variation method and threshold coefficient method. With an impressive assessment accuracy of 97.07% and a classification speed of up to 3 s/piece, the system successfully classified mangoes into seven grades covering overripe, fully ripe, ripe, unevenly ripe, unripe, underripe, and rotten states. By eliminating the reliance on complex instruments and expensive equipment, FISS provides a cost‐effective alternative for food quality control, significantly reducing operational costs.
Effect of perioperative oral care on postoperative infections in patients with cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kubo Aoi , Sakai Kumiko , Ueki Shingo , Fujita Kimie
Published: May 2024

Aim

This systematic review aimed to assess the effect of non‐pharmacologic perioperative oral hygiene care on reduced incidence of postoperative pneumonia (PP), surgical site infection (SSI), and the length of hospital stay in patients with cancer, and to describe the details of oral hygiene care.

Methods

We searched seven databases. Eligibility criteria were based on perioperative oral hygiene care provided by healthcare professionals to patients aged ≥18 years who were surgically treated under general anesthesia and were evaluated for the incidence of PP and SSI. We reported risk ratios (RR) for dichotomous outcomes for PP and SSI using a fixed‐effects model of meta‐analysis.

Results

The search resulted in 850 articles, among which two were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 21 were observational studies. Most studies indicated that dentists and medical care providers performed a combination of oral cleaning, and oral hygiene instructions. In RCTs, perioperative oral hygiene care significantly reduced the incidence of PP (RR, 0.86; p = .60), while in observational studies, perioperative oral hygiene care significantly reduced the incidence of PP (RR, 0.55; p < .001) and SSI (RR, 0.47; p < .001). The length of hospital stay was also significantly reduced (p < .05). However, the effectiveness of nursing intervention was not clear.

Conclusions

Perioperative oral hygiene care implemented by healthcare professionals prevented PP and SSI and reduced length of hospital stays for patients after cancer surgery. As daily perioperative oral hygiene care is performed by nurses, it is necessary to research the effects of oral hygiene by nurses in the future.
Healthcare providers' attitudes and associated factors on palliative care referral: A qualitative systematic review and meta‐aggregation
Authors: Zhang Shan , Li Zhaoyu , Yue Peng
Published: May 2024

Background

Early referral to palliative care has been viewed as providing opportunity for accomplishing end‐of‐life care goals of life closure, comfortable dying and effective grieving. However, previous studies have shown that palliative care referrals are being made too late. Healthcare providers play important role in helping terminally ill patients to early access and being referred to palliative care. It is necessary to understand healthcare providers' attitudes on palliative care referral and associated factors regarding referrals.

Objectives

This review aimed to identify and synthesise healthcare providers' attitudes and associated factors on palliative care referrals systematically.

Design

A systematic review of qualitative evidence and meta‐aggregation was conducted and guided according to PRISMA guideline.

Data sources

PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane databases from inception to 24 October 2022.

Results

Database searches yielded 5856 references. Twenty‐two studies met eligibility criteria and of moderate to high methodological quality were included. Studies occurred in USA, UK, Australia and France with 716 healthcare providers participants were included. A total of 378 codings were finally extracted and integrated into 41 categories, forming three synthesised findings: (1) Healthcare providers' attitudes towards palliative care referrals, (2) the influence of subjective norms on palliative care referral behaviour and (3) perceived behavioural control on palliative care referral behaviour.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates a series of factors that affect the palliative care referrals, including the attitudes of healthcare providers, the participation of patients and families, the support of colleagues and supervisors, inter‐professional collaboration, the availability of hospice resource, disease trajectory and socio‐economic factors. Further research that addresses these factors and design relevant trainings on improving healthcare providers' attitudes, enhancing patient and family engagement, strengthening support networks and optimising resource allocation may aid to meet increasing demands of patients.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This review not only guides healthcare providers in making better decisions about patient referrals by identifying and addressing barriers but also aids in the development of effective interventions that facilitate the early initiation of referrals.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Identifying the contributors to nursing caring success stories
Authors: Conroy Tiffany , Grimmett James , Boylan Sheree , Feo Rebecca
Published: May 2024

Aims

To (a) seek examples of nursing caring success stories and (b) identify the common contributors to these successes. By focusing on the successes of nursing care rather than critically examining failures, this research seeks to provide examples of proven and feasible approaches and processes for improving care.

Design

This study used a narrative inquiry design.

Methods

Data were collected through group interviews. Four interviews were conducted with a total of 20 nurse participants working in inpatient settings in South Australian hospitals. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyse the data.

Results

Two dominant themes concerning the contributors to caring success were identified. These contributors were (1) the provision of holistic care and (2) the influence of the caring community, which includes family members and other patients. The findings also indicated that the definition of caring success according to nurses is not aligned with organisational performance indicators but is more closely represented by caring values.

Conclusion

Success, according to nurses, is not exclusively defined by patient outcomes but includes the approach to, and process of, care delivery.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Nurses value the caring process while working in an environment that primarily values clinical and systems‐level outcomes. Nurses want patients and their families, allied health professionals and hospital executives to be involved and invested in the process of care.

Impact

This study addressed a gap in the current literature to identify commonalities in nursing success stories, the contributors informing these successes and how these contributors can facilitate improved patient care. Understanding nursing definitions of caring success provides an opportunity to expand upon current accepted industry definitions and perspectives such as key performance indicators.

Reporting Method

Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No direct patient or public contribution.
Perioperative patient safety indicators—A Delphi study
Authors: Nyberg Anette , Jirwe Maria , Fagerdahl Ami , Otten Volker , Haney Michael , Olofsson Birgitta
Published: May 2024

Aim

To identify, define and achieve consensus on perioperative patient safety indicators within a Swedish context.

Design

A modified Delphi method.

Methods

A purposeful sample of 22 experts, all experienced operating room nurse specialists, was recruited for this study. A questionnaire was constructed incorporating statements derived from a preceding study. The experts were asked to rate the importance of each statement concerning patient safety during the perioperative phase. The data collection occurred through an online survey platform between November 2022 and April 2023. The CREDES checklist guided the reporting of this study.

Results

The three‐round Delphi study resulted in consensus on 73 statements out of 103, encompassing 74% process indicators and 26% structure indicators. Key areas of consensus included the use of the Surgical Safety Checklist and optimizing the operating room environment.

Conclusion

Consensus was reached on perioperative safety indicators, underscoring the intricate challenges involved in ensuring patient safety in the operating room. It emphasizes the important integration of both structure and process indicators for comprehensive safety assessment during surgical procedures. Recognizing the difficulty in measuring factors like teamwork and communication, essential for patient safety, the study offers practical guidance. It underlines a balanced approach and specific consensus areas applicable in clinical practice to enhance perioperative patient safety.

Implications for the profession and patient care

This study provides concrete practice guidance and establishes a structured framework for evaluating perioperative care processes. It emphasizes the critical role of professionals having the necessary skills and being present during surgical procedures. Additionally, the study underscores the paramount importance of effective communication and teamwork within the operating room team, substantively contributing to overall patient safety enhancement.

Impact

The study focused on addressing the challenge of ensuring patient safety in operating rooms, acknowledging the persistent complications related to surgery despite global efforts to eliminate avoidable harm in healthcare. Consensus was reached on 73 crucial indicators for perioperative patient safety, emphasizing a balanced approach integrating both process and structure indicators for a comprehensive assessment of safety during surgical procedures. The study has a broad impact on professionals and healthcare systems, providing concrete guidance for practice and offering a structured process for evaluating perioperative care.

Reporting Method

The study is reported informed by ‘Guidance on Conducting and REporting DElphi Studies (CREDES) in palliative care: Recommendations derived from a methodological systematic review’.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Investigating solitude as a tool for downregulation of daily arousal using ecological momentary assessments
Authors: Nguyen Thuy‐vy T. , Konu Delali , Forbes Samuel
Published: May 2024

Objective

This research explored arousal levels as a motivating factor for solitude‐seeking. We hypothesized that solitude becomes more desirable when high‐arousal emotions were heightened and individual differences in extraversion and neuroticism would moderate this pattern.

Method

We tracked individuals' hourly experiences throughout a day. We assessed their high‐arousal positive (e.g., excitement) and negative emotions (e.g., tension), whether they were alone or with others, and their preferred situation at the time of the signal. We gathered 4338 surveys from 362 participants, with 103 participants completing all hourly surveys.

Results

Preference for and incidence of solitude changed throughout the day. Contrary to our hypotheses, lagged analyses did not indicate high‐arousal emotions predicting reports of being alone an hour later. However, individuals were more likely to express a preference for solitude while experiencing high‐arousal negative emotions, and less so while experiencing positive emotions. Younger individuals display stronger preference for solitude during experiences of high‐arousal negative emotions. Extraversion and neuroticism did not moderate these patterns.

Conclusions

The results highlight the distinctive appeal of solitude as a space for young adults to deal with negative emotions. We discussed how these findings are connected to existing literature and implications for future research.
Short colon syndrome in cats
Authors: King Audrey P. , Donovan Taryn A. , Cohen Eli , Marin Jenny , Le Roux Alexandre B.
Published: May 2024

Background

Shortening of the colon has been described in cats, but its imaging and clinicopathological features remain poorly understood.

Objectives

Description of the signalment, clinical presentation, imaging, endoscopic and histological features of short colon syndrome in cats.

Animals

Ninety‐three cats diagnosed with short colon.

Methods

Multi‐institutional, descriptive, retrospective case series study. Medical records were searched for a diagnosis of short colon on abdominal ultrasonography, computed tomography, endoscopy, autopsy, or a combination of these modalities.

Results

The median age of included cats was 12 years at the time of diagnosis. Diarrhea was the most common clinical sign (60/92; 65%), followed by vomiting (36/92; 39%), weight loss (36/92; 39%), and inappetence (24/92; 26%). Thirteen percent of cats (12/92) had no signs of gastrointestinal disease at the time of diagnosis. In addition to a shortened colonic length, 79% (66/84) of cats had concomitant colonic thickening on ultrasonographic examination. On colonoscopy, mucosal ulcerations of the colonic wall were seen in 39% (9/23) of cats. Histopathologically, all cats but 1 (diagnosed simultaneously with colonic small cell lymphoma) had lymphoplasmacytic colitis, and when small intestinal biopsies were performed, concurrent lymphoplasmacytic enteritis or small cell lymphoma of the small intestine.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Lymphoplasmacytic colitis is seen commonly in cats with short colon, suggesting a potential link between these entities.
Bioeconomics of juvenile seahorse (Hippocampus erectus) culture: Optimal harvest time
Authors: Sánchez‐Becerril Omar , Seijo Gutiérrez Juan Carlos , Vela Magaña Miguel A. , Mascaró Maite , Simões Nuno
Published: May 2024

The culture of seahorses Hippocampus erectus in captivity represents a window of opportunity for the diversification of the aquaculture activity in the ornamental industry. In this study, we have constructed a bioeconomic model to evaluate the optimal harvest time (OHT) over a culture period of 562 days. The bioeconomic model was integrated with three submodels: biological, technological, and economic. Three different mortality rates were used for different periods in culture, registering a higher survival in the period from 0 to 60 days with a rate of 53.4%. The sensitivity analysis showed that the mortality rate in this period was the parameter with the greatest influence on the benefits. The Von Bertalanffy growth model was indicated to describe the growth of H. erectus given its statistical significance using Theil's inequality coefficient, registering parameters of (L∞ = 141.62 mm) and (k = 0.0049 month‐1). The bioeconomic model determined the OHT in the 4th month of culture, the time when the maximum profit is recorded. It is concluded that the culture presents challenges to be addressed although the bioeconomic model allows for demonstrating the OHT.
Effectiveness of optical treatment in amblyopia and validation of measuring spectacle compliance with the ODM
Authors: Kadhum Aveen , Tan Emily T. C. , Wenner Yaroslava , Joosse Maurits V. , Loudon Sjoukje E.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The improvement in visual acuity (VA) was determined during optical treatment in children with amblyopia before their participation in a randomised clinical trial comparing the effect of dichoptic video gaming using virtual reality goggles with occlusion therapy.

Methods

Children aged 4–12 years with an interocular VA difference ≥0.20 logMAR and an amblyogenic factor: strabismus <30Δ, ≥1.00 D anisometropia, astigmatism ≥1.50 D and/or hypermetropia ≥1.50 D were eligible for 16 weeks of optical treatment. Children with previous amblyopia treatment were excluded. Compliance with spectacle wear was measured electronically over 1 week using the occlusion dose monitor (ODM). The reliability of these measurements was verified. The main outcome was an increase in amblyopic eye VA from baseline to 16 weeks.

Results

Sixty‐five children entered the optical treatment period. Mean age was 6.0 ± 2.2 years (range: 4–12 years; IQR 4.5–6.7 years). Amblyopia was caused by anisometropia in 53 (82%) children, strabismus in 6 (9%) and combined mechanism in 6 (9%). After optical treatment, mean VA improved by 0.20 logMAR (SD 0.28; p < 0.001) and 0.07 in the amblyopic and fellow eye, respectively (SD 0.20; p = 0.03). This resulted in 24 children (37%) with an interocular VA difference <0.20 logMAR and in 17% of children with VA at the start of 0.30 logMAR or worse. Poor VA in the amblyopic eye at baseline (p = 0.001) and high anisometropia (p = 0.001) were associated with VA improvement. On average, spectacles were worn 9.7 ± 2.4 h/day (range: 2.3–13.6 h); mean compliance was 73% ± 18% of estimated wake time. Only ambient temperature ≥ 31°C or when spectacles were worn on top of the head prevented a reliable ODM measurement.

Conclusions

VA improved by two lines resulting in more than a third of the children being treated sufficiently with spectacles alone and no longer being classified as amblyopic. The ODM proved to be a reliable method of measuring compliance with spectacle wear.
Performance on clinical outcomes, activities of daily living and user experience on head‐mounted displays for people with vision impairment
Authors: van der Aa Hilde P. A. , Garcia‐Piña Fernanda , van Nispen Ruth M. A. , Hoogland Jeroen , Roberts Calvin , Seiple William
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To compare the objective performance, acceptance and usability of head‐mounted displays (HMDs) to provide evidence‐based data that could be used to increase the efficiency of device referrals based upon a person's vision loss and functional needs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, counterbalanced, individually controlled crossover study was performed on 15 adults with various eye conditions. Performance was measured when using four HMDs: eSight4, Eyedaptic EYE3, Eyedaptic EYE4 and IrisVision Inspire. Performance on clinical visual acuity tests and contrast were assessed, as well as vision‐related activities of daily living (ADL) which were divided into three categories: Reading, Searching & Identifying and Eye–hand Coordination. User‐experience was also assessed. Logistic regression analyses, Friedman one‐way repeated measure analyses of variance by ranks and multivariate permutation testing were used for analysis.

Results

There was a significant improvement in visual acuity when using all devices. For contrast tasks, only the eSight4 and Eyedaptic EYE3 improved performance relative to baseline. For most Reading and Searching & Identifying tasks, the odds of being able to perform the tasks were significantly higher while using the devices. However, the actual performance with most devices (e.g., number of words read or reading speed) did not improve significantly over baseline for most tasks. For the Eye–hand Coordination tasks, participants performed equivalent to or significantly poorer than baseline when using the devices. No demographic or clinical predictors of outcomes were identified. Participants expressed dissatisfaction with the devices' effectiveness, acceptability and usability.

Conclusions

While performance on clinical tests was better when using the devices, performance on most real‐world ADLs was equal to or worse than baseline. No single device improved performance on all tasks, and performance on any one task was not improved with all the devices. The overall dissatisfaction with the devices paralleled the lack of objective improvement in the performance of real‐world tasks.
Quantitative RUBY reporter assay for gene regulation analysis
Authors: Liu Jia , Li Hao , Hong Conghao , Lu Wanqing , Zhang Wei , Gao Hongbo
Published: May 2024

Various reporter genes have been developed to study gene expression pattern and gene regulation. The RUBY reporter gene was recently developed and widely used, because of its visible and noninvasive advantages. However, quantitative analysis of RUBY gene expression levels was lacking. In this study, we introduce a novel betalain quantification method in combination with the tobacco transient expression system. The betalain produced in tobacco leaves was extracted and purified, and its concentration was quantitatively measured. We successfully applied this approach in studying the transcriptional regulation of ARC5 gene by transcription factors CPD25 and CPD45. Furthermore, with this method, we showed that the gene expression of RCA and Rbcs1A gene were regulated by light, transcription factors HY5 and PIFs through G‐box and I‐box elements. The development of this betalain quantification approach with the tobacco transient expression system offers a cost‐effective and intuitive strategy for studying the regulatory mechanism of gene expression.
Stomatal evolution and plant adaptation to future climate
Authors: Chen Guang , Qin Yuan , Wang Jian , Li Sujuan , Zeng Fanrong , Deng Fenglin , Chater Caspar , Xu Shengchun , Chen Zhong‐Hua
Published: May 2024

Global climate change is affecting plant photosynthesis and transpiration processes, as well as increasing weather extremes impacting socio‐political and environmental events and decisions for decades to come. One major research challenge in plant biology and ecology is the interaction of photosynthesis with the environment. Stomata control plant gas exchange and their evolution was a crucial innovation that facilitated the earliest land plants to colonize terrestrial environments. Stomata couple homoiohydry, together with cuticles, intercellular gas space, with the endohydric water‐conducting system, enabling plants to adapt and diversify across the planet. Plants control stomatal movement in response to environmental change through regulating guard cell turgor mediated by membrane transporters and signaling transduction. However, the origin, evolution, and active control of stomata remain controversial topics. We first review stomatal evolution and diversity, providing fossil and phylogenetic evidence of their origins. We summarize functional evolution of guard cell membrane transporters in the context of climate changes and environmental stresses. Our analyses show that the core signaling elements of stomatal movement are more ancient than stomata, while genes involved in stomatal development co‐evolved de novo with the earliest stomata. These results suggest that novel stomatal development‐specific genes were acquired during plant evolution, whereas genes regulating stomatal movement, especially cell signaling pathways, were inherited ancestrally and co‐opted by dynamic functional differentiation. These two processes reflect the different adaptation strategies during land plant evolution.
Recent progress in defect‐engineered metal oxides for photocatalytic environmental remediation
Authors: Sharma Manisha , Sajwan Devanshu , Gouda Ashrumochan , Sharma Anitya , Krishnan Venkata
Published: May 2024

Rapid industrial advancement over the last few decades has led to an alarming increase in pollution levels in the ecosystem. Among the primary pollutants, harmful organic dyes and pharmaceutical drugs are directly released by industries into the water bodies which serves as a major cause of environmental deterioration. This warns of a severe need to find some sustainable strategies to overcome these increasing levels of water pollution and eliminate the pollutants before being exposed to the environment. Photocatalysis is a well‐established strategy in the field of pollutant degradation and various metal oxides have been proven to exhibit excellent physicochemical properties which makes them a potential candidate for environmental remediation. Further, with the aim of rapid industrialization of photocatalytic pollutant degradation technology, constant efforts have been made to increase the photocatalytic activity of various metal oxides. One such strategy is the introduction of defects into the lattice of the parent catalyst through doping or vacancy which plays a major role in enhancing the catalytic activity and achieving excellent degradation rates. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of defects and their role in altering the photocatalytic activity of the material. Various defect‐rich metal oxides like binary oxides, perovskite oxides, and spinel oxides have been summarized for their application in pollutant degradation. Finally, a summary of existing research, followed by the existing challenges along with the potential countermeasures has been provided to pave a path for the future studies and industrialization of this promising field.
Location and reef size drive oyster reef restoration success
Authors: Caretti Olivia N. , Eggleston David B. , Puckett Brandon J. , Bohnenstiehl DelWayne R.
Published: May 2024

Optimizing habitat restoration success requires understanding how restoration location and design enhance the persistence and function of a restored habitat. Particular attention to the configuration of structure and its interaction with landscape‐scale processes is critical for enhancing the habitat value of restored areas. We monitored six subtidal restored oyster reefs in Pamlico Sound, North Carolina, United States, to identify how oyster demographics responded to initial habitat characteristics (e.g. reef area, volume, vertical relief, and perimeter‐to‐area ratio) and how changes in habitat characteristics over time altered suitability for oysters. Changes in reef habitat were measured by repeated mapping using bathymetric and side‐scanning sonar systems. A 2‐year time series of oyster demographic data quantified oyster response to habitat changes over time. All reefs provided habitat for the settlement and growth of oysters. Within 2 years of restoration, relative differences in oyster recruitment and survival emerged and were related to variations in reef location and two‐dimensional habitat characteristics among reefs, namely reef area and perimeter‐to‐area ratio. Larger reefs that were less fragmented resisted burial from sedimentation and enhanced oyster densities and biomass relative to smaller, more fragmented reefs that became heavily sedimented and failed to support oyster recruitment and survival. Positive feedback mechanisms between habitat characteristics and oyster recruitment success were established within 1 year of restoration and were likely driven by landscape‐scale processes such as sediment dynamics and larval supply. To improve restoration success, we recommend creating larger reef surfaces with low perimeter‐to‐area ratios in areas that promote habitat persistence.
Knowing the invader: increasing knowledge about an invasive plant to improve management
Authors: Roldão Almeida Mónica , Marchante Elizabete , Marchante Hélia
Published: May 2024

Pampas grass is an invasive alien plant with negative consequences for ecosystems, human health, and economy. Although diverse aspects of its biology and the ecology have been studied, some information relevant to its management is still missing. We studied the ecological characteristics of seeds and plants relevant to management and habitat restoration, namely morphological and reproductive traits in female and hermaphrodite plants, flower development, seed longevity, and germinability under different conditions. Female and hermaphrodite plants showed significant differences regarding reproductive traits, but not for morphological traits. Female plants are largely responsible for the dispersal of the species, while hermaphrodite plants primarily serve as pollen donors, contributing to off‐season allergies. In general, seeds of female plants are mature 3–4 weeks from the onset of flower development and are dispersed by wind until after 4 months, but timings are influenced by weather conditions. The species is very adaptable and can germinate in different soils (85% in fluvisols, 65% in podzols, and 35% in solonchak), water salinities (77 and 75% in freshwater, 28 and 38% in mesohaline, and 7 and 35% in polihaline waters, in laboratory and field, respectively), and moisture conditions (50 and 33% in soaked conditions, and 25 and 80% in moistened conditions, in laboratory and field, respectively). Seeds lack dormancy, are short‐lived (up to 1 year in the field and 3 years in optimal storage conditions), and are easily destroyed at 40°C temperatures in dark conditions. Implications of these findings for the management of the species are discussed.
Women of Faith: Overcoming Challenges in the Church's Mission and the Academy
Authors: Palma Paul J.
Published: May 2024

Two recent books navigate the challenges and possibilities women encounter in church and society. Each proceeds from starkly different vantage points and targets distinct audiences. Dzubinski and Stasson's historical approach homes in on the horizon of ecclesial mission as depicted throughout the centuries of Christianity. This work is tailored especially for historians. Yuen and Collier‐Goubil focus on contemporary issues confronting women at the intersection of faith, the home, and the academy. This volume is written by and will appeal to a broad range of religious scholars, although it holds particular significance for those balancing a career in academia with motherhood. A comparison of these works offers unique insights into the shared concerns women with an array of vocations confront, as well as the distinct issues emerging from the arenas of ecclesial leadership, on the one hand, and the academy, on the other.
Characterisation of the novel HLA‐A*02:1140 allele, first identified in a Brazilian individual
Authors: Secco Danielle , Oliveira Victoria , Cunha Mayara , Vianna Romulo , Porto Luís Cristóvão
Published: May 2024

The novel HLA‐A*02:1140 allele, first described in a potential bone marrow donor from Brazil.
Does the S Still Stand for Small?
Authors: Abrams Michael
Published: May 2024

Small modular reactors (SMRs), designed to be faster to build and easier to site, have long been touted as a replacement for conventional reactors. SMRs—the International Atomic Energy Agency classifies the technology as reactors generating less than 300 MW of electricity—are conceived as a means to make nuclear power simpler and less challenging to add to the grid. But questions remain as to just what size is optimal for SMRs.
Reliability-Based Design Optimization of Additive Manufacturing for Lithium Battery Silicon Anode
Authors: Liu Zheng , Wu Hao , Wang Pingfeng , Li Yumeng
Published: May 2024

With the blooming of the electric vehicle market and the advancement in the lithium-ion battery industry, silicon anode has shown great potential for the next-generation battery. Using the state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technique (three-dimensional (3D) holographic lithography), researchers have demonstrated that silicon anode can be fabricated as a three-dimensional bicontinuous porous microstructure. However, the volume fluctuation of the silicon anode caused by lithiation during the discharging process causes continuous capacity decay and poor cycling life. Besides, uncertainties are inherent in the manufacturing and usage processes, making it crucial to systematically consider them in the silicon anode design to improve its performance and reliability. To fill the gap between current silicon anode research and future industrial need, this study established a digital twin to investigate the optimal design for silicon anode under the uncertainties of additive manufacturing and battery usage. This study started with developing multiphysics finite element models of the silicon anode lithiation process to investigate the volume fluctuation of silicon. Then, surrogate models were built based on the results from the finite element models to reduce computational cost. The reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) was employed to find the best design point for the silicon anode, in which an outer optimization loop maximized the objective function and an inner loop dedicated to reliability analysis. Finally, the Pareto optimal front of the silicon anode designs was obtained and validated, which shows over 10% improvements in the silicon anode's total capacity and rate capability.
Elastoacoustic wave propagation in a biphasic mechanical metamaterial
Authors: Wang Meng , Pau Annamaria , Lepidi Marco
Published: May 2024

Humans are sensitive to air-borne sound as well as to mechanical vibrations propagating in solids in the frequency range below 20 kHz. Therefore, the development of multifunctional filters for both vibration reduction and sound insulation within the frequency range of human sensitivity is a research topic of primary interest. In this paper, a high-contrast biphasic mechanical metamaterial, composed of periodic elastic solid cells with air-filled voids, is presented. By opening intercellular air-communicating channels and introducing channel-bridging solid-solid couplings, the frequency dispersion spectrum of the metamaterial can be modified to achieve complete and large bandgaps for acoustic and elastic waves. From a methodological viewpoint, the eigenproblem governing the free wave propagation is solved using a hybrid analytical-computational technique, while the waveform classification is based on polarization factors expressing the fraction of kinetic and elastic energies stored in the solid and fluid phases. Based on these theoretical results, a mechanical metafilter consisting of an array of a finite number of metamaterial cells is conceived to provide a technical solution for engineering applications. The forced response of the metafilter is virtually tested in a computational framework to assess its performance in passively controlling the propagation of broadband sound and vibration signals within solid and fluid environments. Quantitative results synthesized by transmission coefficients demonstrate that the metafilter can remarkably reduce the transmitted response in the frequency band of human sensitivity.
KAT6A deficiency impairs cognitive functions through suppressing RSPO2/Wnt signaling in hippocampal CA3
Authors: Liu Yongqing , Fan Minghua , Yang Junhua , Mihaljević Ljubica , Chen Kevin Hong , Ye Yingzhi , Sun Shuying , Qiu Zhaozhu
Published: May 2024

Intellectual disability (ID) affects ~2% of the population and ID-associated genes are enriched for epigenetic factors, including those encoding the largest family of histone lysine acetyltransferases (KAT5-KAT8). Among them is
KAT6A
, whose mutations cause KAT6A syndrome, with ID as a common clinical feature. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unknown. Here, we find that KAT6A deficiency impairs synaptic structure and plasticity in hippocampal CA3, but not in CA1 region, resulting in memory deficits in mice. We further identify a CA3-enriched gene
Rspo2
, encoding Wnt activator R-spondin 2, as a key transcriptional target of KAT6A. Deletion of
Rspo2
in excitatory neurons impairs memory formation, and restoring RSPO2 expression in CA3 neurons rescues the deficits in Wnt signaling and learning-associated behaviors in
Kat6a
mutant mice. Collectively, our results demonstrate that KAT6A-RSPO2-Wnt signaling plays a critical role in regulating hippocampal CA3 synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, providing potential therapeutic targets for KAT6A syndrome and related neurodevelopmental diseases.
Biomolecular evidence reveals mares and long-distance imported horses sacrificed by the last pagans in temperate Europe
Authors: French Katherine M. , Musiał Adrianna D. , Karczewski Maciej , Daugnora Linas , Shiroukhov Roman , Ropka-Molik Katarzyna , Baranowski Tadeusz , Bertašius Mindaugas , Skvortsov Konstantin , Szymański Paweł , Mellin-Wyczółkowska Izabela , Gręzak Anna , Wyczółkowski Dariusz , Pluskowski Aleksander , Andersen Morten , Millet Marc-Alban , Inglis Edward , Madgwick Richard
Published: May 2024

Horse sacrifice and deposition are enigmatic features of funerary rituals identified across prehistoric Europe that persisted in the eastern Baltic. Genetic and isotopic analysis of horses in Balt cemeteries [1st to 13th centuries CE (Common Era)] dismantle prevailing narratives that locally procured stallions were exclusively selected. Strontium isotope analysis provides direct evidence for long-distance (~300 to 1500 kilometers) maritime transport of Fennoscandian horses to the eastern Baltic in the Late Viking Age (11th to 13th centuries CE). Genetic analysis proves that horses of both sexes were sacrificed with 34% identified as mares. Results transform the understanding of selection criteria, disprove sex-based selection, and elevate prestige value as a more crucial factor. These findings also provide evidence that the continued interaction between pagans and their newly Christianized neighbors sustained the performance of funerary horse sacrifice until the medieval transition. We also present a reference
87
Sr/
86
Sr isoscape for the southeastern Baltic, releasing the potential of future mobility studies in the region.
High potency of linalool-zinc oxide nanocomposite as a new agent for cystic echinococcosis treatment
Authors: Albalawi Aishah E. , Shater Abdullah F. , Alanazi Abdullah D. , Alsulami Muslimah N. , Almohammed Hamdan I.
Published: May 2024

This current
in vitro
,
ex vivo
, and
in vivo
research aims to evaluate and analyze the linalool-zinc oxide nanocomposite (Lin-ZNP) for treating cystic echinococcosis. Lin-ZNP was synthesized using an ethanolic solution of polyvinyl alcohol. The protoscolicidal effects of Lin-ZNP were tested on hydatid cyst protoscoleces (PTS) in both
in vitro
and
ex vivo
by eosin exclusion test. The study also examined the impact on caspase-3 gene expression and the external structure of PTS. The
in vivo
effect was measured by examining hydatid cysts' quantity, dimensions, and weight in mice intraperitoneally infected with 0.5 mL of PTS solution containing 1,000 PTS. The antioxidant and inflammatory cytokine gene expression levels were examined using real-time PCR. Lin-ZNP significantly (
P
< 0.001) killed the PTS in both
in vitro
and
ex vivo
in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The treated PTS exhibited creases and protrusions as a result of bleb formation and upregulation in the gene expression of caspase-3. Upon treatment with Lin-ZNP, there was a significant (
P
< 0.001) reduction in the number, diameter, and weight of the hydatid cysts. Treatment with Lin-ZNP nanocomposite led to a significant increase in the expression of antioxidant genes and a notable decrease in oxidative stress markers, and the expression levels of IL-4 and IL-10. Lin-ZNP has the potential to act as a scolicidal agent and demonstrates promise in controlling hydatid cysts in a mouse model, attributed to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, additional studies in clinical trials are needed to confirm the use of Lin-ZNP for treating hydatidosis.
Magmatic conditions aiding synconvergent extension above the Peruvian flat slab
Authors: Grambling Tyler A. , Jessup Micah J. , Newell Dennis L. , Grambling Nadine L. , Hiett Coleman D.
Published: May 2024

The Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash contain some of the highest topography in the Andes and provide insight into tectonomagmatic processes associated with the onset of flat-slab subduction. These adjacent ranges shared a similar history of deformation and exhumation prior to the late Miocene, when synconvergent extension began in the Cordillera Blanca. Magmatism in the Cordillera Huayhuash has been inferred as coeval with magmatism in the Cordillera Blanca. Yet, extension, which has been correlated with magmatic heat flow, is limited to the Cordillera Blanca. New zircon U-Pb dates and trace and rare earth element concentrations from the Cordillera Blanca batholith and the Huayllapa pluton in the Cordillera Huayhuash and reassessment of existing zircon data help to characterize regional magmatic processes prior to the establishment of flat-slab subduction. Two compositionally distinct samples of the Huayllapa pluton yielded mean ages of 24.8 ± 0.4 Ma and 25.4 ± 0.8 Ma. In contrast, the Cordillera Blanca batholith has a protracted crystallization history postdating that of the Cordillera Huayhuash by up to 20 m.y. Miocene magmatism in the Cordillera Blanca began at 19 Ma and ended with injection of large volumes of geochemically distinct, mantle-derived magma from 10 to 5 Ma. We suggest that 6–5 Ma magmatism in the Cordillera Blanca promoted elevated heat flow and reduced shear strength, which facilitated extensional shearing along the western slopes of the range, whereas colder amagmatic crust in the Cordillera Huayhuash inhibited southward propagation of faulting. Our data demonstrate that the linkages between magmatism and elevated heat flow identified in the Cordillera Blanca are important driving processes in initiating extension in cordilleran-style orogenies.
Preference-aligned fertility management among married adolescent girls in Northern Nigeria: assessing a new measure of contraceptive autonomy
Authors: Rothschild Claire W , Bulama Alhaji , Odeh Roselyn , Chika-Igbokwe Salome , Njogu Julius , Tumlinson Katherine , Musau Abednego
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare—including family planning (FP)—is a global priority, yet there is no standard outcome measure to evaluate rights-based FP programme performance at the regional, national or global levels.

Methods

We collected a modified version of preference-aligned fertility management (PFM), a newly proposed rights-based FP outcome measure which we operationalised as concordance between an individual’s desired and actual current contraceptive use. We also constructed a modified version (satisfaction-adjusted PFM) that reclassified current contraceptive users who wanted to use contraception but who were dissatisfied with their method as not having PFM. Our analysis used data collected 3.5 months after contraceptive method initiation within an ongoing prospective cohort of married adolescent girls aged 15–19 years in Northern Nigeria. We described and compared prevalence of contraceptive use and PFM in this population.

Results

Ninety-seven per cent (n=1020/1056) of respondents were practising PFM 3.5 months after initiating modern contraception, while 93% (n=986/1056) were practising satisfaction-adjusted PFM. Among participants not practising satisfaction-adjusted PFM (n=70), most were using contraception but did not want to be (n=30/70, 43%) or wanted to use contraception but were dissatisfied with their method (n=34/70, 49%), while the remaining 9% (n=6/70) wanted but were not currently using contraception.

Conclusion

PFM captured meaningful discordance between contraceptive use desires and behaviours in this cohort of married Nigerian adolescent girls. Observed discordance in both directions provides actionable insights for intervention. PFM is a promising rights-focused FP outcome measure that warrants future field-testing in programmatic and population-based research.