bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excitatory drive to spinal motoneurones is necessary for serotonin to modulate motoneurone excitability via 5‐HT2 receptors in humans
Authors: Henderson Tyler T. , Taylor Janet L. , Thorstensen Jacob R. , Kavanagh Justin J.
Published: November 2023

Serotonin modulates corticospinal excitability, motoneurone firing rates and contractile strength via 5‐HT2 receptors. However, the effects of these receptors on cortical and motoneurone excitability during voluntary contractions have not been explored in humans. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate how 5‐HT2 antagonism affects corticospinal and motoneuronal excitability with and without descending drive to motoneurones. Twelve individuals (aged 24 ± 4 years) participated in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study, whereby the 5‐HT2 antagonist cyproheptadine was administered. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was delivered to the motor cortex to produce motor evoked potentials (MEPs), and electrical stimulation at the cervicomedullary junction was used to generate cervicomedullary motor evoked potentials (CMEPs) in the biceps brachii at rest and during a range of submaximal elbow flexions. Evoked potentials were also obtained after a conditioning TMS pulse to produce conditioned MEPs and CMEPs (100 ms inter‐stimulus interval). 5‐HT2 antagonism reduced maximal torque (p < 0.001), and compared to placebo, reduced unconditioned MEP amplitude at rest (p = 0.003), conditioned MEP amplitude at rest (p = 0.033) and conditioned MEP amplitude during contractions (p = 0.020). 5‐HT2 antagonism also increased unconditioned CMEP amplitude during voluntary contractions (p = 0.041) but not at rest. Although 5‐HT2 antagonism increased long‐interval intracortical inhibition, net corticospinal excitability was unaffected during voluntary contractions. Given that spinal motoneurone excitability was only affected when descending drive to motoneurones was present, the current study indicates that excitatory drive is necessary for 5‐HT2 receptors to regulate motoneurone excitability but not intracortical circuits.
Project legitimacy: Towards a theoretical framework
Authors: Baba Sofiane , Brunet Maude
Published: November 2023

Scholars have greatly improved our understanding of legitimacy and legitimation processes in recent years. Focusing mainly on organizations and institutional fields, mainstream organizational legitimacy theories assume that organizations are permanent. In so doing, projects—viewed as temporary organizations—like those involving natural resources and infrastructure development projects have been overlooked. In this article, our initial argument posits that a significant temporal distinction underpins the contrast in legitimacy between stable and established organizations and projects. We then develop and discuss two spectra that differentiate the legitimacy of a project from the legitimacy of the organization endorsing the project. Building on these spectra, we then theorize four interplay processes between the legitimacy of projects and the legitimacy of organizations: project reinforcement/degradation and organizational reinforcement/degradation. Our findings pave the way for new and unexplored research avenues on the legitimacy of projects.
DNA and scale reading to identify repeat spawning in Atlantic salmon: Unique insights into patterns of iteroparity
Authors: Kaland Håvard , Harvey Alison Catherine , Skaala Øystein , Wennevik Vidar , Besnier Francois , Fjeldheim Per Tommy , Knutar Sofie , Andersen Kaja Christine , Glover Kevin Alan
Published: November 2023

Iteroparity represents an important but often overlooked component of life history in anadromous Atlantic salmon. Here, we combined individual DNA profiling and scale reading to identify repeat spawners among ~8000 adult salmon captured in a fish trap in the river Etne, Norway, in the period 2015–2019. Additionally, 171 outward migrating kelts were captured in the spring of 2018–2020 and identified using molecular methods to estimate weight loss since ascending the river to spawn. The overall frequency of repeat spawners identified using molecular methods and scale reading combined was 7% in females and 3% in males (5% in total). Most of these (83%) spent one full year reconditioning at sea before returning for their second spawning, with a larger body size compared with their size at first spawning, gaining on average 15.9 cm. A single female migrating back into the river for a fifth breeding season was also identified. On average, kelts lost 40% bodyweight in the river, and more female than male kelts were captured during outward migration. The date of arrival in the upstream fish trap was significantly but moderately correlated between maiden and second entry to the river for alternate and consecutive spawners. The estimated contribution from repeat spawners to the total number of eggs deposited in the river each year varied between 2% and 17% (average 12%). Molecular‐based methods marginally underestimated the number of repeat spawners compared with scale reading (5% vs 7%) likely due to a small number of returning spawners not being trapped and sampled. Differences between the methods were most evident when classifying the spawning strategy (alternate or consecutive‐year repeat spawners), where the scale method identified proportionally more consecutive‐year repeat spawners than the molecular method. This unique data set reveals previously unstudied components of this life history strategy and demonstrates the importance of repeat spawners in population recruitment.
Ecological disturbance reduces genomic diversity across an Alpine whitefish adaptive radiation
Authors: Frei David , Mwaiko Salome , Seehausen Ole , Feulner Philine G. D.
Published: November 2023

Genomic diversity is associated with the adaptive potential of a population and thereby impacts the extinction risk of a species during environmental change. However, empirical data on genomic diversity of populations before environmental perturbations are rare and hence our understanding of the impact of perturbation on diversity is often limited. We here assess genomic diversity utilising whole‐genome resequencing data from all four species of the Lake Constance Alpine whitefish radiation. Our data covers a period of strong but transient anthropogenic environmental change and permits us to track changes in genomic diversity in all species over time. Genomic diversity became strongly reduced during the period of anthropogenic disturbance and has not recovered yet. The decrease in genomic diversity varies between 18% and 30%, depending on the species. Interspecific allele frequency differences of SNPs located in potentially ecologically relevant genes were homogenized over time. This suggests that in addition to the reduction of genome‐wide genetic variation, the differentiation that evolved in the process of adaptation to alternative ecologies between species might have been lost during the ecological disturbance. The erosion of substantial amounts of genomic variation within just a few generations in combination with the loss of potentially adaptive genomic differentiation, both of which had evolved over thousands of years, demonstrates the sensitivity of biodiversity in evolutionary young adaptive radiations towards environmental disturbance. Natural history collections, such as the one used for this study, are instrumental in the assessment of genomic consequences of anthropogenic environmental change. Historical samples enable us to document biodiversity loss against the shifting baseline syndrome and advance our understanding of the need for efficient biodiversity conservation on a global scale.
Evolutionary predictions for a parasite metapopulation: Modelling salmon louse resistance to pest controls in aquaculture
Authors: Coates Andrew , Robinson Nicholas A. , Dempster Tim , Johnsen Ingrid , Phillips Ben L.
Published: November 2023

Pests often evolve resistance to pest controls used in agriculture and aquaculture. The rate of pest adaptation is influenced by the type of control, the selective pressure it imposes, and the gene flow between farms. By understanding how these factors influence evolution at the metapopulation level, pest management strategies that prevent resistance from evolving can be developed. We developed a model for the metapopulation and evolutionary dynamics of the salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), which is a major parasite affecting salmon aquaculture. Different management scenarios were simulated across a network of salmon farms covering half of Norway, and their effects on louse epidemiology and evolution were investigated. We compared louse controls that differed in how they were deployed through time (discrete vs. continuous), how they impacted the louse life cycle, and in their overall efficacy. We adjusted the strength of selection imposed by treatments, the dominance effect of the resistant allele, and the geographic location at which resistance originated. Continuously acting strategies (e.g., louse‐resistant salmon) were generally more effective than discrete strategies at controlling lice, especially when they increased louse mortality during early developmental stages. However, effective strategies also risked imposing frequent and/or strong selection on lice, thus driving rapid adaptation. Resistant alleles were more likely to be lost through genetic drift when they were recessive, had a low‐fitness advantage, or originated in low‐farm‐density areas. The north‐flowing current along the Norwegian coastline dispersed resistant genes from south to north, and limited gene flow in the opposite direction. We demonstrate how evolutionary models can produce quantitative predictions over large spatial and temporal scales and for a range of pest control scenarios. Quantitative outputs can be translated into practical management decisions applied at a regional level to minimise the risk of resistance developing.
A review of three‐dimensional weight function methods for the analysis of various surface/corner crack problems
Authors: Xu Wu , Wu Xue‐Ren
Published: November 2023

The stress intensity factor (SIF) is the foundation of fracture mechanics analysis. Accurate determination of SIFs is at the very heart of damage tolerance design and fatigue crack growth life prediction. The weight function method (WFM) is a powerful method for SIF‐determination involving complex load conditions. This article presents a review of the historical development over the past five decades and the current state‐of‐the‐art in three‐dimensional (3D) WFMs. The discussions are focused on the slice synthesis weight function method (SSWFM) and the point weight function method (PWFM). The powerfulness of the 3D WFMs is shown by a variety of examples with complex part‐through crack configurations under uni‐ and bi‐variant loadings. Solution accuracy is verified by comparisons of SIFs with various numerical methods. Use of the substitute geometry concept to expand the capability of 3D WFMs for solving real‐world engineering 3D crack problems is demonstrated. Some remaining challenges are briefly discussed.
Heat wave‐induced microbial thermal trait adaptation and its reversal in the Subarctic
Authors: Tájmel Dániel , Cruz‐Paredes Carla , Rousk Johannes
Published: November 2023

Climate change predictions suggest that arctic and subarctic ecosystems will be particularly affected by rising temperatures and extreme weather events, including severe heat waves. Temperature is one of the most important environmental factors controlling and regulating microbial decomposition in soils; therefore, it is critical to understand its impact on soil microorganisms and their feedback to climate warming. We conducted a warming experiment in a subarctic birch forest in North Sweden to test the effects of summer heat waves on the thermal trait distributions that define the temperature dependences for microbial growth and respiration. We also determined the microbial temperature dependences 10 and 12 months after the heat wave simulation had ended to investigate the persistence of the thermal trait shifts. As a result of warming, the bacterial growth temperature dependence shifted to become warm‐adapted, with a similar trend for fungal growth. For respiration, there was no shift in the temperature dependence. The shifts in thermal traits were not accompanied by changes in α‐ or β‐diversity of the microbial community. Warming increased the fungal‐to‐bacterial growth ratio by 33% and decreased the microbial carbon use efficiency by 35%, and both these effects were caused by the reduction in moisture the warming treatments caused, while there was no evidence that substrate depletion had altered microbial processes. The warm‐shifted bacterial thermal traits were partially restored within one winter but only fully recovered to match ambient conditions after 1 year. To conclude, a summer heat wave in the Subarctic resulted in (i) shifts in microbial thermal trait distributions; (ii) lower microbial process rates caused by decreased moisture, not substrate depletion; and (iii) no detectable link between the microbial thermal trait shifts and community composition changes.
Local compositional change and regional stability across 3000 years of coral reef development
Authors: Staples Timothy L. , Pandolfi John M.
Published: November 2023

Aim

Measuring changes in ecological diversity over time is core to understanding and managing human impacts on natural systems. Observational data do not capture pre‐modern community states or multiple generations of long‐lived taxa, so interpretation of current diversity trends requires comparison with the past. We aimed to estimate diversity trends over long time periods in a series of fossil coral terraces.

Location

Huon peninsula, Papua New Guinea.

Time Period

9817–6433 years before 1950 AD.

Major Taxa Studied

Thirty‐five genera of Sceleractinian coral.

Methods

We estimated trends in standing richness (α diversity) and turnover (temporal β diversity) in palaeoecological time series of fossil reef terraces. We compared taxonomic and functional group composition estimates of α diversity, using Hill numbers, and β diversity, measured both sequentially along each time series and to the earliest community.

Results

We found regional‐scale trends of slowly increasing α diversity and directional turnover driven by increased evenness over time. These regional trends were averages of local‐scale trends in α and β diversity that were largely synchronous, even as coral composition diverged between spatial clusters. Our two β diversity estimates provided opposing, but complementary, reference frames to understand the magnitude and rate of compositional change in ecological time series.

Main Conclusions

We provide evidence that prior to strong anthropogenic influence, natural communities were experiencing directional diversity and compositional change. Our results provide a valuable perspective of diversity dynamics in the recent geological past, including how choices in the measurement of diversity can occlude and influence results.
COVID‐19, health librarianship and the wider context
Authors: Grant Maria J.
Published: November 2023

In this second special collection of COVID‐19‐related manuscripts, our focus moves from health information within academia to health librarianship in the wider context. Although COVID‐19 manuscripts may still occasionally appear in the Health Information and Libraries Journal, the World Health Organisation's declaration earlier this year of an end to the global health emergency marks an intentional editorial shift to adopting a broader perspective in publishing this type of work, a focus on public health information challenges and emergency preparedness, and a return to publishing a more familiar range of health library and information contexts and practice.
Thymic epithelial tumours: histopathological classification and differential diagnosis
Authors: von der Thüsen Jan
Published: November 2023

The epithelial and lymphoid compartments of the thymus can give rise to a wide variety of tumours, including thymomas, thymic carcinomas, lymphoreticular proliferations, germ cell tumours, and sarcomas. While some of these have close similarity to their counterparts in other organs, both in terms of histology and immunohistochemistry, as well as molecular features, others are unique to the thymus. The epithelial tumours, which can develop in the thymus, will be discussed in this review, with a particular emphasis on resolving differential diagnosis by means of morphology, immunohistochemical profiles, and molecular diagnostics.
Train driver selection: The impact of cognitive ability on train driving performance
Authors: Collins Michael D.
Published: November 2023

Train driving is a demanding form of human performance where inattention or distraction can lead to serious errors and accidents. Train drivers, therefore, require a unique set of abilities to deal with these demands, especially when exposed to competing or conflicting performance expectations (e.g., on‐time performance and following safety rules). Cognitive abilities, in particular, are considered essential to safe and effective train driving. Selective attention is one such ability, however, other cognitive abilities can be equally important. Drawing on self‐control theory, this article examines the combined effect of selective attention, fluid intelligence, and verbal reasoning on train driving performance. The results of a study involving 101 experienced train drivers indicates that drivers with low selective attention, low fluid intelligence, and low verbal reasoning perform worse on a train simulator driving assessment than drivers who are higher in these cognitive abilities. The results from this study provide direction for future rail safety research and guidance for practitioners responsible for assessing and selecting train drivers.
Four‐year review of New Zealand laboratory infliximab and adalimumab concentration results indicating potential for improved dosing
Authors: Keating Paula E. , Hock Barry D. , Smith Stewart M. , Chin Paul K. L. , O'Donnell John L. , Barclay Murray L.
Published: November 2023

A review of laboratory results across New Zealand for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of infliximab and adalimumab concentrations and antidrug antibodies (ADAs) over 4 years was completed. Of 6591 results, the median serum concentration for infliximab was 5.7 mg/L and for adalimumab was 5.5 mg/L. Subtherapeutic drug concentrations (<7 mg/L) were measured in 54% of samples. Drug concentrations <2 mg/L were measured in 23% of samples, with ADAs detected in 51% of these. The high number of samples with subtherapeutic drug concentrations and common ADA detection is consistent with failing therapy but could also suggest that standard dosing is frequently too low for patients. These results reinforce the value of antitumour necrosis factor drug TDM in making decisions to adjust dosing or switch agents in patients taking infliximab and adalimumab.
No relationship between socioeconomic status, education level and development and progression of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes: a FIELD trial substudy
Authors: Rao Ben , Januszewski Andrzej S. , Brazionis Laima , O'Connell Rachel , Aryal Nanda , Shimmin Georgia , O'Day Justin , Mitchell Paul , Colman Peter G. , Keech Anthony C. , Jenkins Alicia J ,   the FIELD trial investigators
Published: November 2023

In 6002 Australian adults with type 2 diabetes and a median 5‐year follow‐up in the FIELD (Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes) trial, baseline socioeconomic status (SES) and self‐reported education level were not related to development of on‐trial sight‐threatening diabetic retinopathy. Similarly, in a retinal photography substudy (n = 549), two‐step diabetic retinopathy progression was not related to SES or education.
Hidden and unacknowledged: The mental health and psychosocial interventions delivered by school nurses in Western Australia
Authors: Moyes Anita , McGough Shirley , Wynaden Dianne
Published: November 2023

Schools are an important setting for the early identification, assessment and intervention of mental health problems in children and young people. Internationally, many nurses work in schools, but the role of this group with young people experiencing mental health problems has had only limited investigation. This study explored the activities school nurses undertook with young people experiencing mental health problems in Australia. Reporting was guided by the COREQ checklist. Thirty‐one nurses participated in a semi‐structured interview. Data were analysed using the constant comparative method of analysis as developed by Glaser and Strauss (1967). The findings identified that nurses working in schools undertake a complex and sophisticated workload to support this cohort. In addition to assessment and referral for treatment, interventions assisted young people to manage challenging life circumstances, cope with intensely difficult emotions and improve their social and occupational functioning. The work of school nurses with young people experiencing mental health problems is hidden and unacknowledged. A better understanding of the mental health work school nurses undertake can inform enhanced service provision for children, young people and their families. The research findings will be of interest to mental health nurses, education professionals, parents, policy makers and governments.
Instrumentation time and effectiveness of hand and rotary files in a prototyped second mandibular primary molar: A micro‐CT study
Authors: Rêgo Emily Feitosa , Silva Renata Perez Vianna , de Sá Silva Aline Saddock , Marceliano‐Alves Marília Fagury Videira , Lopes Ricardo Tadeu , Primo Laura Guimarães , Neves Aline de Almeida
Published: November 2023

Background

Eccentric instruments have been proposed as more effective and less time‐consuming for endodontic instrumentation.

Aim

To compare biomechanical outcomes of different instrumentation systems and time undertaken for instrumentation in resin prototypes.

Design

Sixty standardized prototypes of mandibular second primary molars were instrumented according to the following systems: K‐files, ProTaper Next (PTN), XP‐endo Shaper (XPS), XP‐endo Finisher (XPF), XP–Clean (XPC), and Sequence Baby File (SBF; n = 10/each). Irrigation was performed with saline with simultaneous aspiration, and time spent was recorded. The prototypes were micro‐CT‐scanned before and after the instrumentation, and image sets were reconstructed and registered. Non‐instrumented areas, accumulated debris, removed root material volume, and canal transportation were quantified. Data were analyzed through ANOVA, the Kruskal–Wallis test, and the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test (α = 5%).

Results

K‐files and SBF resulted in more instrumentation time (p < .05). SBF, XPC and PTN removed less root dentine (p < .05), but PTN left more untouched areas (p < .05). Accumulated debris were lower for XPC and SBF (p < .05). Canal transportation was similar among the groups.

Conclusion

Rotary systems reduced instrumentation time, whereas SBF and XPC resulted in more conservative instrumentation, with less debris accumulation and non‐instrumented areas. A dedicated paediatric endodontic system (SBF) outperformed eccentric instruments in terms of effectiveness.
Inpatient burden of respiratory syncytial virus in children ≤2 years of age in Germany: A retrospective analysis of nationwide hospitalization data, 2019–2022
Authors: Wick Moritz , Poshtiban Anahita , Kramer Rolf , Bangert Mathieu , Lange Matthias , Wetzke Martin , Damm Oliver
Published: November 2023

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes respiratory tract disease in seasonal waves, primarily in infants and young children. This study aims to quantify the number of RSV‐related hospitalizations in children ≤2 years of age and to determine corresponding resource use and costs in Germany.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed population‐wide hospital data from the Institute for the Hospital Remuneration System (InEK) from 2019 to 2022. RSV cases were identified using the RSV‐specific 10th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐10) codes J12.1, J20.5, and J21.0. The RSV‐associated proportion of all hospitalizations caused by severe acute respiratory infections (SARIs), clinical manifestations, length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, ventilation rates, and hospitalization costs were retrieved.

Results

We identified 98,220 hospitalizations (26,052, 15,407, 31,362, and 25,399 in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, respectively) with a principal RSV diagnosis in children aged ≤2 years in Germany. The majority of RSV hospitalizations (73,178) occurred in infants (<1 year), with annual incidence rates ranging from 14.9 to 28.6 per 1000 population. Fifty‐eight percent of all SARI hospitalizations in this age group were attributable to RSV. In children aged ≤2 years, mean LOS was 4.5 days, 6.1% of cases were admitted to ICU, and 5.3% of cases were ventilated. Mean hospitalization costs per case ranged from €3001 to €3961 over the study period.

Conclusions

RSV causes substantial disease burden and is a leading cause of SARI‐related hospital admissions of children ≤2 years of age in Germany. Our results confirm the need to explore and evaluate strategies to prevent RSV in infants and young children.
Burden of seasonal influenza in the Swiss adult population during the 2016/2017–2018/2019 influenza seasons
Authors: Ammann Daniel , Bilger Jana , Loiacono Matthew M. , Oberle Susanne G. , Dounas Andreas , Manuel Oriol , Pletscher Mark
Published: November 2023

Background

Evidence on the burden of seasonal influenza in Switzerland is scarce, yet it is critical for the design of effective prevention and control measures. The objective of this study was to assess influenza‐related resource utilization, health care expenditures and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) lost in Switzerland across the 2016/2017–2018/2019 influenza seasons.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed multiple real‐world data sources to calculate epidemiological and health outcomes, QALYs lost, and direct medical costs due to influenza in the Swiss adult population. Subgroups included residents 18–49, 50–64, and 65+ years of age. The observation period was Week 26, 2016, to Week 25, 2019.

Results

Across the three seasons, we estimated seasonal averages of 203,090 (se ± 26,717) general practitioner (GP) visits for influenza‐like illness (ILI) 4944 (se ± 785) influenza‐attributable hospitalizations and 1355 (se ± 169) excess deaths attributable to influenza. We estimated a total loss of 8429 (2016/2017), 11,179 (2017/2018), and 7701 (2018/2019) QALYs due to influenza. On average, 88% of the loss in QALYs was attributed to premature deaths due to influenza.

The total direct medical costs amounted to 44.4 (2016/2017), 77.3 (2017/2018), and 64.5 (2018/2019) million euros. On average, 79.6% of the total costs arose due to hospitalizations.

Conclusions

In Switzerland, the burden of influenza on patients and payers is significant and particularly high in the elderly population. Policy interventions to increase vaccination rates and the uptake of more effective vaccines among the elderly are needed to reduce the burden of influenza.
Traits contributing to salinity tolerance in rice genotypes from the Mekong Delta
Authors: Johnson Kristian , Vu Duy Hoang , Asch Folkard
Published: November 2023

Increasing sea level rise and subsequent salinization in mega deltas, such as the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD), pose a risk to rice (Oryza sativa L.) production during the dry season. This study investigated the salinity resistance of a selection of common rice genotypes from the VMD along with an international check, IR64. The 20 rice varieties were grown hydroponically for 5 weeks in a greenhouse and then exposed to three levels of NaCl concentration (0 mM, 50 mM and 100 mM) over a period of 2 weeks to determine their susceptibility to salinity. Rice plants were scored and SPAD (leaf greenness) and PRI (photochemical reflectance index) were measured on the youngest fully developed leaf on the main tiller. After harvesting the 7‐week‐old plants, biomass and ion (K+, Cl−, Na+) content were determined by organ across all tillers. Averaged over all varieties, both at 50 mM and 100 mM NaCl, there was a significant reduction in plant biomass, 39% and 52% respectively. However, the effect of the NaCl treatments and the uptake of Cl− and Na+ were significantly different between varieties (p < .0001). Using biomass and ion content as part of a multivariate analysis, varieties were classified according to their susceptibility to salinity and their predominant strategy towards managing ion accumulation. The grouped varieties were further characterized by patterns in Cl− and Na+ partitioning and nondestructive parameters such as SPAD and PRI.
The effect of room‐temperature plastic deformation in darkness on the photoluminescence properties of ZnS
Authors: Ogura Yu , Nakamura Atsutomo , Kameyama Tatsuya , Kurokawa Yasuyoshi , Tochigi Eita , Shibata Naoya , Torimoto Tsukasa , Hoshino Sena , Yokoi Tatsuya , Matsunaga Katsuyuki
Published: November 2023

Inorganic semiconductors have been considered to be brittle at room temperature generally, but recently zinc sulfide (ZnS), a II–VI compound semiconductor, was found to exhibit extraordinarily large plasticity even at room temperature if it was deformed in darkness. Room‐temperature plastic deformation can achieve high density of glide dislocations in the crystal without significantly changing the point defect structure, and these dislocations themselves have a potential to provide unique functional properties different from those of the bulk. In this study, therefore, undoped ZnS crystals were plastically deformed at room temperature in darkness to generate only a large number of dislocations, and the changes in luminescence properties resulting from this process were investigated for the first time. As a result, we found that ZnS deformed in darkness exhibits characteristic photoluminescence and persistent luminescence emissions with a visible green color. SEM‐CL analyses also identified the emissions from the dislocations. Theoretical calculations indicated that individual dislocations in ZnS have the ability to trap photo‐excited carriers. Such changes in luminescence properties due to room temperature plastic deformation in darkness can be considered to originate from dislocations rather than point defects. In other words, the dislocations themselves serve as the significant recombination centers, realizing visible light emission.
Diffusion zone evolution around growing crystals in combeite glass
Authors: Macena Guilherme S. , Abyzov Alexander S. , Fokin Vladimir , Nascimento Marcio L. F. , Zanotto Edgar D. , Ferreira Eduardo B.
Published: November 2023

The precipitation of nonstoichiometric crystals (of different composition from the parent glass) motivated us to study the stoichiometric Na2O·2CaO·3SiO2 ( N2CS3) glass‐forming system comprehensively. The concentration profiles of Na and Ca in the diffusion zone around Na4+2xCa4−x[Si6O18], , crystals in an N2C3S glass were characterized by energy‐dispersive spectroscopy and were then theoretically described. We show that the diffusion zone is formed because of the rejection of part of calcium by the growing crystal. The radial variation of the Ca concentrations and the crystal nucleation rate through the diffusion zone were analyzed simultaneously. We found that the nucleation rate in the diffusion zone near the crystal–glass interface drastically decreases due to the increase in the work of critical cluster formation resulting from the composition change. In contrast, the diffusion activation barrier remains practically constant. Moreover, the Ca diffusion coefficients, DCa, in Na2O·2CaO·3SiO2 and CaO·SiO2 glasses show the same Arrhenius dependence, demonstrating that (surprisingly) DCa does not depend on the glass composition in the CaO·SiO2–Na2O·SiO2 metasilicate joint. This work provides the quantitative spatial distribution of chemical components in a partially crystallized glass, shedding light on solid solution crystallization in a glass‐forming liquid and its consequences.
Clinicians' experiences of caring for people brought in by police to the emergency department: A qualitative interpretive study
Authors: Wardrop Rachel , Ranse Jamie , Crilly Julia , Stubbs Nicole , Chaboyer Wendy
Published: November 2023

Aim

To explore nurses' and doctors' experiences of providing care to people brought in by police (BIBP) to the emergency department (ED).

Design

A qualitative interpretive study using in‐depth individual interviews.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with nurses and doctors who worked in various EDs in one Australian state and were involved in the care of people BIBP. Interviews were undertaken between May and October 2022 and focused on the structures (i.e., what), processes (i.e., how) and outcomes of care for people BIBP. Data were analysed using deductive and then inductive content analysis.

Results

Nine nurses and eight doctors were interviewed. Structures described by participants included human structures (staff) and organizational structures (areas for assessment, involuntary assessment orders, investigations, chemical/physical restraints). For processes, participants described practices including risk/mental health assessments, legal considerations, and increased/decreased levels of care compared to other presentations. Communication processes were largely between police and health care staff. Service outcomes pertained to discharge location (custody, community, hospital admission) and length of stay.

Conclusion

The current care delivery for people BIBP to the ED is unique and complex, often occurring in high traffic, resource‐intensive areas. There is a need to strengthen structures and processes, to improve service outcomes.

Implications for the Profession

Understanding the care requirements for people brought into ED by police enables the delivery of targeted care alongside appropriate resource allocation.

Impact

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the health care requirements for people BIBP to EDs. Interventions delivered in the ED to support health care delivery for people BIBP and foster clinician and police relationships are required to optimize patient and health service outcomes.

Reporting Method

This study adheres to the COREQ checklist (Table S1) of the EQUATOR guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study focused on ED staff experiences.
Frailty and social isolation before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic among older adults: A path analysis
Authors: Su Ya , Hamatani Masako , Yuki Michiko , Ogawa Natsuka , Kawahara Kayoko
Published: November 2023

Aim

To explore the prevalence of social isolation among Japanese community‐dwelling older adults before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic as well as determine how family and friend connections before and during the pandemic affected frail older adults during the pandemic.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 852 community‐dwelling older adults in Hokkaido and Tokyo, Japan were surveyed conducted between April and November 2021 using convenience sampling. The Lubben social network scale‐6, frailty screening index, and geriatric depression scale were used to assess social isolation, frailty and depression, respectively. A path analysis was conducted to evaluate the effect of social isolation on frailty.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 76.8 ± 6.6 years. Overall, 46% and 59% of participants were socially isolated before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic, respectively. Frailty was found in 19% of participants during the pandemic. Friends and family connectedness before the pandemic had no direct relationship with frailty; only friend connectedness affected frailty indirectly via depression. Family connectedness during the pandemic had a significant, negative and direct relationship with frailty.

Conclusion

The findings show that connectedness with family and friends is critical for older people's physical and mental health.

Impact

Nurses in the community should consider these findings to reduce mental health problems and physical decline among older adults. It is important to identify older adults who are socially isolated from their families or friends and provide resources to help them build relationships within their communities.

Patient or Public Contribution

Community centre staff and community volunteers assisted in data collection. The public was not involved in data analysis, interpretation or manuscript preparation.
Implementation leadership of the Resident Assessment Instrument in healthcare services for older people: An interview study of specialists
Authors: Kuha Suvi , Vähäkangas Pia , Kanste Outi
Published: November 2023

Aim

The aim was to explore implementation leadership of the Resident Assessment Instrument in healthcare services for older people from the perspective of specialists.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design was used.

Methods

Thematic interviews with 21 specialists were conducted between April 2022 and June 2022 in eight health and social, one educational and one research organization in Finland. The data were analysed with deductive–inductive content analysis using the Resident Assessment Instrument implementation leadership framework developed for this study.

Results

In implementation leadership of Resident Assessment Instrument, the need for leaders' support and capabilities to ensure that the conditions and supporting structures for implementation are present was emphasized. Regular and continuous basic and advanced training for professionals and leaders' competencies were identified as crucial factors for a successful implementation process of Resident Assessment Instrument. Leading the active implementation of this instrument requires leaders' strong support and regular communication. The importance of frontline leaders and mentors was also stressed in practical implementation, while the responsibility of upper‐level leaders, especially in the use of benchmarking, was underlined for the evaluation and further improvement of organizational operations. In sustaining the implementation, it was emphasized that using the Resident Assessment Instrument is a continuous process that does not end with the implementation itself.

Conclusion

Implementation leadership of Resident Assessment Instrument has the potential to increase the success of the implementation process. The Resident Assessment Instrument Implementation Leadership Framework can be a useful tool for describing processes, content and leaders' roles in implementation leadership of the instrument in healthcare services for older people.

Impact

This study provides a comprehensive view of implementation leadership of the Resident Assessment Instrument implementation process in healthcare services for older people. Overall, the results indicate the significance of leadership in successful implementation.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

What Does This Article Contribute to the Wider Global Clinical Community?

Successful implementation leadership of Resident Assessment Instrument requires continuous monitoring, supporting and evaluating the implementation process. Organizations that use the Resident Assessment Instrument should strengthen their leaders' knowledge and competencies in implementation leadership to enable the full realization of the instrument's benefits. Leaders and professionals in healthcare services for older people need regular, continuous and correctly targeted basic and advanced training on the Resident Assessment Instrument.
Effectiveness of non‐surgical interventions to improve health and well‐being in women living with Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Baby Anu , Pallam Manju C. , Hayter Mark
Published: November 2023

Aim

The aim of this paper is to present the evidence on the effectiveness of non‐surgical interventions to improve health and well‐being in women living with Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome.

Design

Systematic review guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews checklist.

Data Sources

The search was conducted between June and September 2022 across the following databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, PsycINFO and Cochrane. Trial registries (clinicaltrials. gov, World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP), Cochrane Controlled Trials Register‐CCTR), Google scholar, dissertations, conference proceedings and reference lists of included studies were also searched. Corresponding authors, formal and informal MRKH groups were contacted to obtain any significant studies or reviews.

Review Methods

Eligible were only English‐language empirical studies of any time period. The review followed narrative synthesis.

Results

Twenty‐three studies were identified that fit the inclusion criteria which included 1540 MRKH syndrome affected women. Four studies were on psychological interventions (n = 85) and 19 studies (vaginal dilation therapy n = 897, coital dilation n = 57) focused on non‐surgical vaginal dilation as a measure to vaginal agenesis in MRKH syndrome.

Conclusions

Clearly, vaginal dilation is a viable initial treatment option for women with MRKH syndrome. There is limited evidence that ‘coital dilation’ is an effective method of dilation for vaginal agenesis. The literature, however, supports the need for psychological intervention to improve health and well‐being.

Impact

Women with MRKH syndrome who require dilation can receive guidance and support from their healthcare providers, particularly sexual and reproductive health nurses, clinical nurse specialists and gynaecologists. From the point of diagnosis, clinical psychologists should be involved. As much as feasible, family and partner support can be encouraged.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Phenomenography: A useful methodology for midwifery research
Authors: Balding Kirstie Jayne , Geraghty Sadie , Timler Amanda , Pezaro Sally , McChlery Sheena
Published: November 2023

Aims

To outline the theoretical, philosophical, and major assumptions associated with phenomenography and then address the application of a phenomenographical approach within the context of midwifery research.

Background

Phenemonography is a little‐known qualitative research approach amongst the main design traditions of phenomenology, grounded theory, case study, and ethnography more typically used within midwifery research. Phenomenography aims to describe the qualitatively different ways that people perceive, conceptualize, or experience a phenomenon. Phenemonography has a distinctly different approach from other qualitative methods as it places emphasis on the ‘collective’ meaning over individual experience.

Methodology

Phenomenography, as an approach, rests within the interpretivist paradigm recognizing that there are multiple interpretations of reality. Phenomenography emphasizes the various ways that people experience the same phenomenon, including both the similarities and differences. The second‐order perspective embraced by phenomenography suggests that the researcher directs themselves towards people's understanding of the world; essentially the world is described as it is understood rather than as it is. It is the reporting about how these different realities appear at a collective level that is the output of phenomenographic research.

Findings

A framework for conducting phenomenographic research is illustrated by outlining the steps within the methodological approach required to undertake a research study using phenemonography.

Conclusion

Phenomenography is a qualitative research approach that can usefully be applied in many midwifery contexts where a collective understanding of a phenomena is required. Using a phenomenographic approach can provide the midwifery profession with knowledge about variations in how women and midwives think, and how aspects of different phenomena are experienced in within a midwifery setting.
Researching belonging in the context of research with people with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review of inclusive approaches
Authors: Garcia‐Lee Benjamin , Strnadová Iva , Dowse Leanne
Published: November 2023

Background

In disability studies belonging is emerging as a promising area of study. Inclusive research, based as it is on lived experience perspectives, is likely to provide salient insights into belonging in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

Method

A systematic review utilising four databases and five leading journals in the field of intellectual disabilities was used. Content analysis and a deductive synthesis of the extracted data was undertaken.

Results

A high level of confluence was found between the findings of the included studies and key themes of belonging identified in the wider literature. Beyond this, studies utilising inclusive research approaches have contributed novel findings about belonging in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions

Inclusive research approaches to belonging may provide innovative and responsive frameworks to support people to develop a sense of being connected and “at home” in themselves and in their communities.
Precautions and possibilities in orthodontic treatment of periodontally compromised patients: Current recommendations
Authors: Han Sung‐Hoon , Ko Youngkyung , Ham Lyun Kwang , Park Jae Hyun , Kim Yoonji
Published: November 2023

Objective

Orthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in achieving optimal dental esthetics and functional occlusion. However, when periodontally compromised patients are involved, additional precautions and considerations are critical. This article aims to provide up‐to‐date recommendations for the orthodontic treatment of periodontally compromised patients.

Clinical Considerations

Comprehensive diagnosis of the patient's periodontal status, inherent malocclusion, and secondary malocclusion resulting from periodontal disease are essential for achieving optimal esthetics and functional occlusion. This can be facilitated through the use of a simplified checklist. Prior to orthodontic treatment, pre‐existing periodontal diseases should be managed. Light and controlled forces should be used to minimize the risk of adverse effects on the periodontium, and any potential traumatic occlusion during tooth movement should be minimized. Furthermore, careful anchorage management is required, and proper application of temporary anchorage devices can significantly expand the scope of orthodontic treatment. Finally, treatment results are maintained by ongoing supportive periodontal therapy even during the retention period.

Conclusions

This article presents clinical cases demonstrating the importance of accurate diagnosis in orthodontics and periodontics and the positive impact of orthodontic treatment on patients with pre‐existing periodontal diseases.

Clinical Significance

An up‐to‐date orthodontic treatment protocol for periodontally compromised patients is presented.