bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) Productivity and Biochemical Traits: A Comparison of Straw Mulch and Polythene Mulch Under Prolonged Salinity Stress
Authors: Meena H. N. , Ajay B. C. , Reddy K. K. , Meena M. D. , Mishra J. P.
Published: August 2024

The escalating population growth has spurred a demand for increased oilseed production, necessitating urgent attention. However, the expansion of saline‐affected regions posed a significant obstacle to maintain peanut productivity in these areas. Thus, to tackle the productivity decline in saline‐affected regions, we investigated whether substituting polythene mulch with straw mulch, as part of an agronomic management strategy, could mitigate the rapid decrease in peanut productivity. Three mulching methods (control, polythene mulch and straw mulch) were employed to cultivate the crop (cv. TG 37A) under salinity levels of 0.5, 2, 4 and 6 dS m−1. As salinity levels increased, there was a notable decrease in germination percentage, growth, yield and biochemical characteristics, including pod and haulm yields were reported. Despite salinity reduced free amino acids and oil content, it exhibited significant increase in protein and sugar content. Saline irrigation water led to a reduction in pod yield, haulm yield and oil content by 24.67%, 23.84% and 5.07%, respectively, at a salinity level of 6.0 dS m−1 compared to the control with 0.5 dS m−1 salinity. Moreover, straw mulching resulted in a boost in pod yield, haulm yield and oil content by 30.09%, 4.83% and 1.75%, respectively, compared to the control. The reduction in pod yield and oil content under the interaction of mulching and salinity was 46.44% and 6.87% at M0S6, 21.42% and 4.44% at M1S6, and 7.55% and 3.87% at M2S6 compared to M0S0, M1S0 and M2S0, respectively. A similar trend was also observed in 100‐pod weight, 100‐kernel weight and shelling percentage. Accordingly, it was concluded that the declining trend in all attributes under straw mulching at various salinity levels surpassed polythene mulching, ensuring superior peanut production under salinity stress conditions.
Ants and predators cope with pest pressures by interacting with the surrounding vegetation at low spatial scales
Authors: Álvarez Hugo Alejandro , Clemente‐Orta Gemma , Ruano Francisca
Published: August 2024

Biological control of pests can be enhanced by the presence of semi‐natural habitats within agricultural landscapes. However, this assumption remains controversial due to inconsistencies related to the type of agroecosystems and the natural enemies studied. Within olive orchards, there is a lack of information regarding the interaction among natural enemies and their relation with habitat structure to control pests at the landscape scale. Here, we investigate the effects of the natural habitat on the pest, pest damage and the interaction of pests and natural enemies – using a trophic guild approach, in organic olive orchards. For this, we decomposed the natural habitats into vegetation structures and analysed their effects with a multi‐scale perspective. Our results show that (1) greater proportions of natural habitats increase the abundance of ants (omnivores) and predators and diminish pest pressures – reducing the impact of Prays oleae on olive fruits. (2) Vegetation structures within natural habitats were grouped, based on their effects, into three main vegetation groups: grassland and forest, scrublands and olive trees. However, the dense scrubland and the dense forest improve the abundance of natural enemies that are linked to pest damage the most. (3) Prays oleae increases in landscapes dominated by low numbers of patches that are highly aggregated. Conversely, ants and predators increased in landscapes dominated by high numbers of patches that have a less edge‐resembling shape. (4) Within the olive canopy, the abundance of lacewing larvae and salticid spiders is related to lower pest damage and a reduction in P. oleae adults respectively. However, when ants and predators interact with the natural habitat, they can cope with pest pressures without the need for high abundances, supporting ‘the more‐effective natural enemy hypothesis’ in agroecosystems.
A qualitative exploration of barriers, facilitators and best practices for implementing environmental sustainability standards and reducing food waste in veterans affairs hospitals
Authors: Williams Bethany D. , Pitts Stephanie Jilcott , Onufrak Stephen J. , Sirois Emma , Utech Anne , Wood Michelle , Silverman Jessi , Ajenikoko Funke , Murphy Meghan , Lowry Warnock Amy
Published: August 2024

Background

To improve the healthfulness of foods offered while accelerating the use of environmental sustainability practices, it is important to engage hospital food service operators in the adoption of such practices. The purpose of this study was to explore barriers, facilitators and best practices for implementing environmental sustainability standards in food service among veterans affairs (VA) hospitals in the United States.

Methods

We conducted an online survey with 14 VA hospital food service directors and then 11 qualitative interviews. The survey assessed motivations for initiating sustainability standards and included a self‐rating of implementation for each of five standards: increasing plant‐forward dishes, procuring and serving sustainable foods that meet organic/fair trade and other certifications, procuring and serving locally produced foods, reducing food waste and reducing energy consumption. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Qualitative analysis, including coding of themes and subthemes, was conducted by two coders to determine barriers, facilitators and best practices for each of these five standards. Quantitative methods (counts and frequencies) were used to analyse the survey data.

Results

Participants had an average of 5 years of experience implementing sustainability standards. The top three motivators cited were reducing food waste, serving healthier foods and increasing efficiency or cost savings. Barriers revolved around patient preferences, contractual difficulties and costs related to reducing waste. Facilitators included taste testing new recipes that include more sustainable food options and easy access to sustainable products from the prime vendor. Best practices included making familiar dishes plant‐forward and plate waste studies to prevent overproduction.

Conclusions

Although there were many barriers to implementation, food service directors had solutions for overcoming challenges and implementing food service sustainability standards, which can be tested in future sustainability initiatives.
Outcomes and complications of second‐trimester induction of labor using laminaria and gemeprost: A single‐center experience in Japan
Authors: Arai Tomohiro , Ozawa Katsusuke , Muromoto Jin , Sugibayashi Rika , Wada Seiji , Sago Haruhiko
Published: August 2024

Aim

To document the outcomes of second‐trimester induction of labor with laminaria cervical dilation followed by gemeprost vaginal tablets, with a particular emphasis on its complications.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective cohort study of women who experienced medical abortions between 12 and 21 weeks of gestation from January 2016 to July 2021. Procedures were performed with three laminaria cervical dilation for 2 days followed by the administration of gemeprost (1 mg, vaginal tablet) every 3 h with a maximum of five tablets per day. Epidural anesthesia was provided upon request. The primary outcome was successful labor induction, which was defined as fetal expulsion without assisted surgical procedures. Other maternal outcomes, complications and related interventions during and after the procedure were assessed.

Results

Among 319 women, 313 (98.1%) experienced successful labor induction with a median of one gemeprost tablet. The median blood loss during the abortion was 145 mL, and three women (0.9%) required blood transfusion. Fever was observed in 19 women (6.0%) during hospitalization, although most cases were drug fever. Thirteen women (4.1%) had abnormal uterine bleeding ~24 days after the abortion. Eleven cases (3.4%) were associated with retained products of conception, of which three cases required uterine artery embolization and three needed surgical curettage.

Conclusions

Second‐trimester induction of labor with laminaria cervical dilation and subsequent gemeprost vaginal tablets is a reliable method for completing medical abortions. Abnormal uterine bleeding several weeks after abortion is suspected to be a retained product of conception that could require invasive treatment.
Local authority intervention in private renting: from compliance to hardline enforcement
Authors: COWAN DAVE , MARSH ALEX , HARRIS JENNIFER
Published: August 2024

Drawing on data from two empirical projects concerned with local authority enforcement of standards in the private rented sector, this article argues that there are signs of greater use of formal enforcement approaches, and that these approaches are increasingly ‘hardline’. This finding runs counter to the existing scholarship on regulatory enforcement, which emphasizes securing compliance over formal enforcement. Securing compliance is also integral to the regulatory guidance in this sphere of activity. Further, in the context of cuts to local authority funding and greater local authority demand for private rented stock to meet household needs, the shift to hardline approaches requires explanation. Drawing on Keith Hawkins’ and Peter Manning's theory of legal decision making, which emphasizes consideration of the surround, the field, and the frame, the authors explain how changes to the field, in particular, have encouraged this shift.
Stock Inhalers: A Qualitative Data Analysis of Illinois Health Policy Trials and Triumphs
Authors: Wrona Jessica , Hardy Paige , Youssef Caroline , Adeleke Semmy , Martin Molly A. , Gerald Lynn B. , Pappalardo Andrea A.
Published: August 2024

Background

Asthma reliever medication access is critical, especially in schools. Policies that “stock” reliever inhalers in schools provide failsafe medication access. This research aims to understand barriers and facilitators to Illinois stock inhaler policy implementation.

Methods

We conducted 18 semi‐structured interviews in 2021‐2022 with key school‐based and non‐school‐based partners (school administrators, nurses, governmental agencies, and advocacy leaders). Through Atlas.ti, code frequencies compared (Fisher's exact test), and a thematic analysis performed.

Results

Four themes emerged: facilitators, barriers, program rationale, and process considerations. The common facilitators were “Finding a provider,” having a “Champion,” and “Funding”. Barriers included “Not enough school nurses,” “Pharmacy refusal to fill prescriptions,” and “Feeling overwhelmed.” All were supportive of the rationale for stock inhalers. Non‐school‐based informants (p < .01) were more likely to mention medication donations, while school staff reported having enough nurses as a facilitator (p < .01). School staff reported concerns about children with asthma not having their medication significantly more than other partners (p = .02).

Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity

Our analysis revealed that school partners recognize the value of stock inhalers. Barrier mitigation to support the funding, prescription access and processing, and training are essential to success of stock inhaler programming. Multilevel collaborative efforts through coalitions could be a potential solution.
Feasibility of an innovative medical dental integration program to provide overdue adolescent vaccinations in a federally qualified health center
Authors: Jack Jessica L. , Buban Aaron , Krentz Christine , Durniak Mark , Hamilton Scott , Williams Joshua T. B.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To determine the feasibility of a medical dental integration program to provide overdue vaccinations to adolescents ages 9–17 and evaluate the facilitators and barriers to the process.

Methods

The program was developed and implemented at one dental clinic co‐located within a medical clinic at a federally qualified healthcare center in Denver, Colorado. Utilizing a shared electronic health record, human papillomavirus, meningococcal, and/or tetanus‐diphtheria‐acellular pertussis vaccines were recommended by dental providers and then administered by the medical team. Plan‐do‐study‐act cycles informed implementation. Descriptive analyses of eligible patients were performed and run charts were used track process implementation outcomes.

Results

One hundred and sixty eligible adolescents were identified during a 6‐month period. Overall, 29 patients (18%) received 41 vaccines. Process facilitators included staff buy‐in and individual provider feedback and barriers included staff shortages and family vaccine refusal/preference to receive vaccines in the medical home.

Conclusions

Many adolescents see dental providers more than their primary care providers, creating an opportunity to vaccinate adolescents overdue for immunizations during dental visits. A medical dental integration program to provide adolescent vaccinations was feasible in a federally qualified health center with co‐located medical and dental services. Expansion to diverse healthcare settings is necessary to further explore implementation outcomes.
Effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of cognitive behavioural therapy in improving resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality among clients with opioid use disorder: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Sonbol Hassan Mohammed , Metwally El‐Sayed Mona , Taha Samah Mohamed , Abdelwahab Khedr Mahmoud , El‐Ashry Ayman Mohamed , Abd Elhay Eman Sameh
Published: August 2024

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a prevalent problem among Egyptian youth, and achieving recovery and abstinence is challenging. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a well‐known approach, can be particularly beneficial when it addresses psychological aspects such as resilience and self‐esteem.

What does the paper add to existing knowledge?

Our research is recognized as a trailblazer in integrating a spiritual adaptation of CBT with spiritual elements for treating patients with OUD in the Egyptian context. This innovative approach marks a significant advancement in the field.

The study found a statistically significant increase in the mean scores of resilience, self‐esteem, and spirituality (p < .001 each) following the spiritual adaptation of CBT sessions compared to the control group.

What are the implications for practice?

The findings can guide psychiatrists and nurses in providing more comprehensive and effective care to patients with OUD by incorporating a spiritual adaptation of CBT with spiritual components into treatment plans.

Introduction

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a prevalent problem among Egyptian youth, and achieving recovery and abstinence is challenging. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a well‐known approach, can be particularly beneficial when it addresses psychological aspects such as resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of CBT in enhancing these factors among clients with OUD.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental study with a control group was conducted using a pretest‐posttest design. The study included 49 clients with OUD and 46 clients in the control group. The Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale–Modified Arabic Version, Daily Spiritual Experience Scale, and the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale were used as measurement tools. CBT was delivered in 60‐min group sessions. After 3 months, the questionnaires were re‐administered to evaluate the effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of CBT sessions.

Results

The study found a statistically significant increase in the mean scores of resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality (p < .001 each) following a spiritual adaptation of CBT sessions compared to the control group.

Discussion

A spiritual adaptation of CBT effectively enhanced resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality in clients with OUD.

Implications for Practice

Understanding the effectiveness of a spiritual adaptation of CBT in enhancing resilience, self‐esteem and spirituality can enable psychiatrists and nurses to provide more comprehensive and effective care to patients with OUD.
Outcomes of a 1‐Year Pilot Study Implementing Universal Hepatitis Delta Virus Testing Among Veterans With Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Wong Robert J. , Liao Meimei , Chen Yu , Kwan Miki , Lee Ji‐Hyung , Jou Janice H. , Lim Joseph K. , Cheung Ramsey
Published: August 2024

Current US guidelines recommend risk‐based testing for hepatitis delta virus (HDV) in persons with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). While there is debate as to whether a risk‐based or universal testing approach is most effective, limited data exist on universal HDV testing programs in the United States. We performed a 1‐year pilot study evaluating the outcomes of a universal HDV testing approach among US veterans with CHB. All consecutive adults with CHB receiving care at hepatology clinics at a single‐centre Veterans Affairs Health System from 1 October 2022 to 30 September 2023 were prospectively tested for anti‐HDV antibody (anti‐HDV). Patients who were anti‐HDV Ab‐positive were subsequently tested for HDV RNA. Comparison of HDV testing between groups utilised chi‐square testing. A total of 91 consecutive CHB patients (90.0% male, mean age 60.9 ± 14.1 years, 73.9% Asian, 26.1% non‐Asia, 16.5% cirrhosis and 17.1% with active or past history of drug use) had anti‐HDV ordered. Overall, 76.9% (n = 70) completed anti‐HDV testing; 4.3% (n = 3) were positive. HDV RNA testing was ordered in all three patients; two patients completed HDV RNA testing and one had detectable HDV RNA. No significant differences in completion of anti‐HDV testing was observed by age, sex, race/ethnicity, cirrhosis status or drug use history. Among a single‐centre prospective cohort study piloting a universal HDV testing approach, one patient with viremic HDV was identified. Implementing true reflex testing of all CHB patients with anti‐HDV, followed by automated HDV RNA testing for anti‐HDV‐positive patients would improve the HDV testing cascade and timely diagnosis of HDV.
A retrospective Italian analysis on the characteristics of invasive fungal infections in the intensive care unit setting: CHARTER‐IFI study
Authors: Viale Pier Luigi , Mirandola Silvia , Natalini Ciro , Esposti Luca Degli , Dovizio Melania , Veronesi Chiara , Forcina Gabriele , Navalesi Paolo , Boscolo Annalisa
Published: August 2024

Background

Invasive fungal infections (IFI), prevalent in critically ill ICU patients, have gained attention due to post‐COVID‐19 epidemiological shifts. Notably, COVID‐19‐associated aspergillosis and candidiasis pose significant risks. WHO recognises key fungal pathogens, emphasising the need for enhanced research and interventions.

Methods

The CHARTER‐IFI study retrospectively examines 186,310 individuals admitted to ICUs in Italy from 01/01/2012–01/09/2023, utilising administrative databases covering around 10 million inhabitants. Adult patients were included having at least one ICU discharge diagnosis of IFI at their first IFI‐related hospitalisation and having at least 12 months of available data prior to this hospitalisation.

Results

A total of 746 IFI patients discharged from ICU (incidence of 4.0 per 1000 ICU‐hospitalised patients), were included. Median age was 68 years, 63% were males, and the overall Charlson Comorbidity Index was 2.2. The top three diagnoses were candidiasis (N = 501, 2.7/1000 ICU‐hospitalised patients), aspergillosis (N = 71, 0.4/1000), and pneumocystosis (N = 55, 0.3/1000). The evaluation of the comorbidity profile in IFI patients revealed the presence of hypertension (60.5%), use of systemic GC/antibacterials (45.3% during 12 months before and 18.6% during 3 months before hospital admission), cancer (23.1%), diabetes (24.3%) and cardiovascular diseases (23.9%). The mean (±SD) length of hospitalisation in ICU was 19.9 ± 24.1 days (median 11 days), and deaths occurred in 36.1% of IFI patients (within 30 days from discharge).

Conclusions

This retrospective analysis among ICU‐hospitalised patients described the burden of IFI in ICU, and its understanding could be crucial to strengthen surveillance, investments in research, and public health interventions as required by WHO.
Accumulation of pathogens in soil microbiome can explain long‐term fluctuations of legumes in a grassland community
Authors: Kohout Petr , Sudová Radka , Odriozola Iñaki , Kvasničková Jana , Petružálková Markéta , Hadincová Věroslava , Krahulec František , Pecháčková Sylvie , Skálová Hana , Herben Tomáš
Published: August 2024

All plant populations fluctuate in time. Apart from the dynamics imposed by external forces such as climate, these fluctuations can be driven by endogenous processes taking place within the community. In this study, we aimed to identify potential role of soil‐borne microbial communities in driving endogenous fluctuations of plant populations.

We combined a unique, 35‐yr long abundance data of 11 common plant species from a species‐rich mountain meadow with development of their soil microbiome (pathogenic fungi, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and oomycetes) observed during 4 yr of experimental cultivation in monocultures.

Plant species which abundance fluctuated highly in the field (particularly legumes) accumulated plant pathogens in their soil mycobiome. We also identified increasing proportion of mycoparasitic fungi under highly fluctuating legume species, which may indicate an adaptation of these species to mitigate the detrimental effects of pathogens.

Our study documented that long‐term fluctuations in the abundance of plant species in grassland communities can be explained by the accumulation of plant pathogens in plant–soil microbiome. By contrast, we found little evidence of the role of mutualists in plant population fluctuations. These findings offer new insights for understanding mechanisms driving both long‐term vegetation dynamics and patterns of species coexistence and richness.
The contribution of technological innovation, trade and economic development to renewable energy use in the United Kingdom, Germany and Turkey
Authors: El‐Karimi Mounir , Belcaid Karim
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the causal impact of the technological innovation, trade openness and economic growth on the renewable energy use (RE) in Germany, the United Kingdom and Turkey. To this end, Breitung and Candelon (Journal of Econometrics, 2006, 132, 363) causality test linked to Toda and Yamamoto (Journal of Econometrics, 1995, 66, 225) procedure is applied on data for the period 1985–2021. Our results indicate that the German RE is mainly affected by the technological innovation and economic growth, but over the long‐term. Regarding the United Kingdom, its RE dynamics is found to be significantly impacted by the technological progress, trade openness and output growth all together, but only during the long‐run. However, in Turkey, the RE long‐term pattern is mainly led by the technological innovation, while the RE short‐term dynamics is primarily drown by the trade openness. This study provides policymakers a better understanding of RE pattern to formulate appropriate policies dealing with energy security, sustainable development and environmental pollution.
Decoding the genetic basis of ear‐related traits in maize (Zea mays L.) using linkage mapping, association mapping and genomic prediction
Authors: Chang Liguo , He Kunhui , Liu Jianchao
Published: August 2024

As important yield components, the genetic analysis of ear‐related traits could provide a theoretical basis for maize breeding. Here, we reported the comprehensive genetic architecture of five ear‐related traits using 150 recombinant inbred lines (RIL) populations derived from the cross between Xu178 and K12. Besides, two sets of association populations were used to dissect genetic loci of five traits by genome‐wide association study (GWAS). A total of 32 QTLs of ear‐related traits were detected in the linkage mapping. Based on the mixed linear model (MLM), a total of 117 significant SNP markers of ear‐related traits were detected. Furthermore, a combined GWAS and linkage mapping analysis revealed 51 significant SNP markers fell within the confidence interval of QTLs. A total of seven co‐located significant SNP markers among different traits were found. Finally, six important candidate genes related to grain development were screened out. In addition, through haplotype analysis, two favourable haplotypes were found on chromosome 4, which could increase row number per ear (RNE), kernel number per row (KNR) and grain yield per plant (GYP) to a certain extent. Compared with the random model, the prediction accuracy of genomic prediction (GP) was improved in different degrees by considering the significant SNP markers as fixed effects. The stable genetic QTLs, candidate genes and favourable haplotypes found in this study are valuable resources, which will provide theoretical reference for high‐yield breeding of maize. Taken together, the research results also highlight the benefits of integrating GWAS with GP to further improve the accuracy of GP.
Optimising height‐growth predicts trait responses to water availability and other environmental drivers
Authors: Towers Isaac R. , O'Reilly‐Nugent Andrew , Sabot Manon E. B. , Vesk Peter A. , Falster Daniel S.
Published: August 2024

Future changes in climate, together with rising atmospheric , may reorganise the functional composition of ecosystems. Without long‐term historical data, predicting how traits will respond to environmental conditions—in particular, water availability—remains a challenge. While eco‐evolutionary optimality theory (EEO) can provide insight into how plants adapt to their environment, EEO approaches to date have been formulated on the assumption that plants maximise carbon gain, which omits the important role of tissue construction and size in determining growth rates and fitness. Here, we show how an expanded optimisation framework, focussed on individual growth rate, enables us to explain shifts in four key traits: leaf mass per area, sapwood area to leaf area ratio (Huber value), wood density and sapwood‐specific conductivity in response to soil moisture, atmospheric aridity, and light availability. In particular, we predict that as conditions become increasingly dry, height‐growth optimising traits shift from resource‐acquisitive strategies to resource‐conservative strategies, consistent with empirical responses across current environmental gradients of rainfall. These findings can explain both the shift in traits and turnover of species along existing environmental gradients and changing future conditions and highlight the importance of both carbon assimilation and tissue construction in shaping the functional composition of vegetation across climates.
Photosynthetic capacity in middle‐aged larch and spruce acclimates independently to experimental warming and elevated CO2
Authors: Dusenge Mirindi Eric , Warren Jeffrey M. , Reich Peter B. , Ward Eric J. , Murphy Bridget K. , Stefanski Artur , Bermudez Raimundo , Cruz Marisol , McLennan David A. , King Anthony W. , Montgomery Rebecca A. , Hanson Paul J. , Way Danielle A.
Published: August 2024

Photosynthetic acclimation to both warming and elevated CO2 of boreal trees remains a key uncertainty in modelling the response of photosynthesis to future climates. We investigated the impact of increased growth temperature and elevated CO2 on photosynthetic capacity (Vcmax and Jmax) in mature trees of two North American boreal conifers, tamarack and black spruce. We show that Vcmax and Jmax at a standard temperature of 25°C did not change with warming, while Vcmax and Jmax at their thermal optima (Topt) and growth temperature (Tg) increased. Moreover, Vcmax and Jmax at either 25°C, Topt or Tg decreased with elevated CO2. The Jmax/Vcmax ratio decreased with warming when assessed at both Topt and Tg but did not significantly vary at 25°C. The Jmax/Vcmax increased with elevated CO2 at either reference temperature. We found no significant interaction between warming and elevated CO2 on all traits. If this lack of interaction between warming and elevated CO2 on the Vcmax, Jmax and Jmax/Vcmax ratio is a general trend, it would have significant implications for improving photosynthesis representation in vegetation models. However, future research is required to investigate the widespread nature of this response in a larger number of species and biomes.
A case of erythema ab igne with histopathological features resembling keratosis lichenoides chronica
Authors: Shahin Ahmad B. , Coias Jennifer , Mastin Murphy , Lehman Julia S. , Anderson Katelyn
Published: August 2024

This case describes a pediatric patient with a history of ichthyosis vulgaris and global anhidrosis who was diagnosed with erythema ab igne (EAI), a rare dermatosis resulting from chronic heat exposure. After developing progressive, reticulated brown patches on his extremities and abdomen, extensive diagnostic investigations were conducted to rule out autoimmune, vascular, and genetic etiologies. Bloodwork was unrevealing and biopsies showed histologic features closely resembling keratosis lichenoides chronica. Ultimately, after discovering the patient had prolonged exposure to a space heater, the diagnosis of EAI was made. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges in pediatric EAI cases and emphasizes the importance of careful history taking as part of a comprehensive evaluation.
Long‐Term Outcomes of Living Donor Liver Transplantation for Methylmalonic Acidemia
Authors: Minnee Robert C. , Sakamoto Seisuke , Fukuda Akinari , Uchida Hajime , Hirukawa Kazuya , Honda Masaki , Okumura Shinya , Ito Takashi , Yilmaz Tonguç U. , Fang Yitian , Ikegami Toru , Lee Kwang W. , Kasahara Mureo ,   Vanguard Multi‐Center Study of International Living Donor Liver Transplantation Group
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite early diagnosis and medical interventions, patients with methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) suffer from multi‐organ damage and recurrent metabolic decompensations.

Methods

We conducted the largest retrospective multi‐center cohort study so far, involving five transplant centers (NCCHD, KUH, KUHP, ATAK, and EMC), and identified all MMA patients (n = 38) undergoing LDLT in the past two decades. Our primary outcome was patient survival, and secondary outcomes included death‐censored graft survival and posttransplant complications.

Results

The overall 10‐year patient survival and death‐censored graft survival rates were 92% and 97%, respectively. Patients who underwent LDLT within 2 years of MMA onset showed significantly higher 10‐year patient survival compared to those with an interval more than 2 years (100% vs. 81%, p = 0.038), although the death‐censored graft survival were not statistically different (100% vs. 93%, p = 0.22). Over the long‐term follow‐up, 14 patients (37%) experienced intellectual disability, while two patients developed neurological complications, three patients experienced renal dysfunction, and one patient had biliary anastomotic stricture. The MMA level significantly decreased from 2218.5 mmol/L preoperative to 307.5 mmol/L postoperative (p = 0.038).

Conclusions

LDLT achieves favorable long‐term patient and graft survival outcomes for MMA patients. While not resulting in complete cure, our findings support the consideration of early LDLT within 2 years of disease onset. This approach holds the potential to mitigate recurrent metabolic decompensations, and preserve the long‐term renal function.
The deformation of democracy in the United States: When does bureaucratic “neutral competence” rise to complicity?
Authors: Bozeman Barry , Nelson John P. , Bretschneider Stuart , Lindsay Spencer
Published: August 2024

Recent years have seen a step‐change in the severity and nature of threats to United States democracy, including extensive efforts by elected officials to undercut democratic governance. When elected officials undermine democracy, this constitutes “deformation of democracy.” As implementors and agents of policy, public administrators can sometimes play essential roles as bulwarks against democratic deformation. However, among public administrators there is historically a strong ethos emphasizing neutral competence and subordination to political authority, in some cases reinforced by law. How should public administrators respond when confronted by deformation and, at the same time, constrained by tradition and law? We selectively review strands of public administration theory, focusing on theory especially relevant to the United States governmental system, to construct and assess a catalog of responses that public administrators can take under democratic deformation. We conclude by offering a set of recommendations focused on institutionalized collective action by public administrators.
The Comparative Account of Tort Reparation
Authors: Chau Peter
Published: August 2024

How can tort reparation be justified? Stephen Perry's comparative account relies on two ideas: (1) the loss arising from an injurious event should be distributed between the injurer and the victim rather than be borne by society at large; and (2) the distribution of loss between the injurer and the victim depends on a comparison of their “relative degree of fault.” Many believe that a strength of the comparative account lies in its ability to explain apportionment in contributory negligence cases. I argue, to the contrary, that such cases pose a serious difficulty for the account.
Silicone dressing combined with topical oxygen therapy alleviates incontinence‐associated dermatitis via NF‐κB p65/STAT1 signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Guiyu an , Chen Yingxun , Zhang Yan , Zheng Shufeng , Zhu Louying , Ding Mingxing
Published: August 2024

Background

Incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD) is a tough problem in clinical settings, not only increasing the risk of complications like catheter‐related urinary tract infections and pressure ulcers in elderly and critically ill patients, but also prolonging hospital stays, raising hospital costs, and possibly leading to medical disputes. This study is aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of silicone dressing combined with topical oxygen therapy on IAD in a rat model.

Methods

An IAD rat model induced by synthetic urine with trypsin was established. Hematoxylin & eosin staining was carried out to examine skin histology. Using immunofluorescence, the microvessel density in the affected skin tissues was determined. ELISA was performed to measure the concentrations of inflammatory cytokines and angiogenic factors in serum. The mRNA expression of EGF, PDGF, and VEGF was detected via qRT‐PCR. Western blotting was employed to determine NF‐κB p65/STAT1 pathway‐related protein levels.

Results

Compared to single therapy, silicone dressing combined with topical oxygen therapy could significantly reduce the severity of IAD, improve skin histology, inhibit inflammation, and promote angiogenesis in IAD rat models. Additionally, the results showed that relatively speaking, the combined therapy suppressed the NF‐κB p65/STAT1 signaling pathway more effectively.

Conclusion

These findings indicated that silicone dressing combined with topical oxygen therapy can alleviate IAD through promoting wound healing and inhibiting inflammation via NF‐κB p65/STAT1 signaling pathway in a rat model, which provided a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of IAD in clinic.
A call to address penicillin allergy labels in patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplants: How to avoid rash decisions
Authors: Belmont Ami P. , Stone Cosby A. , Guyer Autumn C. , Edelman E. Jennifer , Trubiano Jason A.
Published: August 2024

Among patients with hematopoietic stem cell transplants, infections, particularly multidrug‐resistant infections, pose a grave threat. In this setting, penicillin allergy labels are both common and harmful. Though the majority of patients who report penicillin allergy can actually tolerate penicillin, penicillin allergy labels are associated with use of alternative antibiotics, which are often more broad spectrum, less effective, and more toxic. In turn, they are associated with more severe infections, multidrug‐resistant infections, Clostridium difficile, and increased mortality. Evaluating penicillin allergy labels can immediately expand access to preferred therapeutic options, which are critical to care in patients with recent hematopoietic stem cell transplants. Point‐of‐care assessment and clinical decision tools now exist to aid the nonallergist in assessment of penicillin allergy. This can aid in expanding use of other beta‐lactam antibiotics and assist in risk‐stratifying patients to determine a testing strategy. In patients with low‐risk reaction histories, direct oral challenges can be employed to efficiently delabel patients across clinical care settings. We advocate for multidisciplinary efforts to evaluate patients with penicillin allergy labels prior to transplantation.

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Use of half red blood cell units in oncology patients during severe shortages to extend hospital supply
Authors: Zhuang Lefan , Shan Haoyue , Yang Dongyun , Woo Jennifer , Wang Shirong , Garcia Alexander , Jackson Ryan , Yuan Shan
Published: August 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic exerted an unprecedented impact on the blood supply from 2020 through 2022. As a result, throughout 2021 there were months our hospital had less than one‐day supply of type O RBCs. To meet transfusion needs, whole RBC units were split into half units and issued to stable, non‐bleeding patients. This single‐institution, retrospective study examines time intervals to subsequent transfusion and total numbers of RBC units subsequently transfused after the first half or whole RBC unit.

Study Design and Methods

Patients who were transfused RBC between May 21, 2021 and November 1, 2021 were divided into in‐ and outpatient groups, then based on whether they received at least 1 half RBC unit or only whole RBC units during the study period. The time interval between this first half unit transfusion, or first whole unit transfusion in those who did not receive half units, and the subsequent RBC transfusion within 90 days was calculated and compared, as well as the total number of RBC units transfused 30 days after the first unit.

Results

In general, patients transfused with half units received a subsequent transfusion significantly earlier than those transfused with whole units. Additionally, receiving an index half unit was associated with more RBC transfusions in the following 30 days (p = .001).

Conclusion

Transfusion of half RBC units during a severe RBC blood shortage can temporarily decrease RBC usage but will result in a shorter interval to the next transfusion and greater total number of RBC units transfused in subsequent days.
Input–Output Finite-Time Bipartite Synchronization for Multiweighted Complex Dynamical Networks Under Dynamic Hybrid Triggering Mechanism
Authors: Birundha Devi N. , Sakthivel R. , Priyanka S. , Kwon O. M.
Published: August 2024

The problem of input–output finite-time (IO-FT) bipartite synchronization for a class of nonlinear multiweighted complex dynamical networks (CDNs) in the presence of multiple coupling delays, external disturbances, and deception attacks is explored in this study. To be precise, the limited communication resources have been mitigated with the aid of undertaken hybrid triggered strategy, which reduces the unwanted network transmission and simultaneously improves the system's performance. Specifically, in the hybrid-trigger scheme, a Bernoulli distributed random variable has been employed to switch between the two communication channels. Moreover, the event-triggered scheme involving the dynamic trigger conditions is incorporated in the sensor-to-controller, which reduces the number of triggers compared to static event-triggered strategy. Further, the adequate conditions are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities by constructing a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional candidate. In light of this, the required parameters involved in triggering and the gain matrix are acquired by solving the developed linear matrix inequalities. Eventually, the reliability of the developed approach is verified via the illustration of two numerical examples, including the Chua's circuit with simulation verifications.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Fretting Wear Behavior of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Sathisha C. H. , KA Harsha , Arivu Y. , Pramod S. , Sridhar M. R. , Buravalla Vidyashankar , Kesavan D.
Published: August 2024

This research paper focuses on the fretting wear characteristics of self-mated laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF)-produced Inconel 718 alloy, with the primary aim of characterizing its distinct wear-rate in relation to fretting cycles. This study investigates both the as-built and heat-treated Inconel 718 Superalloy. Experiments were conducted under aggressive contact conditions, involving a flat-on-flat contact pressure of 100 MPa (1645 N) and a temperature of 650 °C sustained over a million cycles. From the preliminary observation, the microstructure reveals that the heat-treated L-PBF alloy has denser and harder precipitates than its as-built counterpart. This indicates that heat-treated alloy is much harder (470 HV0.3) than the as-built Inconel 718 (275 HV0.3). The heat treatment process resulted in the precipitation of beneficial strengthening phases like γ′ and γ″, along with maintaining stable carbides (NbC). Notably, the heat-treated material displays an approximately two-fold lower wear-rate (0.103 μm/cycle at the end of 1000 k cycles) compared to the as-built material (0.238 μm/cycle), attributed primarily to its high strength characteristics. Additionally, the heat-treated material demonstrates a reduced steady-state friction coefficient (0.34) in contrast to the as-built material (0.37), owing to its inherent capability to form a uniform and stable lubricious glaze oxide layer. Both as-built and heat-treated systems show dominant adhesive wear mechanisms along with localized abrasion resulting from the combination of oxidation and cyclic wear processes.
Assessing the Environmental Impact of Aircraft/Engine Integration With Respect to Contrails
Authors: Ramsay Joseph , Tristanto Indi , Shahpar Shahrokh , John Alistair
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the radiative forcing of aircraft contrails and aircraft-induced contrail cirrus have been highlighted as a serious short-term climate impact of the aviation industry. Greater understanding of factors influencing contrail properties are required if routes to mitigation are to be explored. In this work, a parametric turbofan powered aircraft model has been created to study the impact that aircraft design, in particular the interaction between the jet and wingtip vortex, can have on ice crystal formation, growth, and dynamics within a contrail. To investigate this, a contrail microphysics module has been developed and integrated within Rolls-Royce in-house Hydra computational fluid dynamics code. Three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations are conducted over the jet and early vortex regime, covering an area which is often simplified in most contrail modeling approaches. It is found that the position of the engine along the wing of an aircraft can impact the formation of the wingtip vortex, altering the contrail properties and distribution downstream of the aircraft. The effect of multi-engine architecture is also assessed and shown to influence the magnitude of exhaust entrainment into the vortex.
Advancements in Sustainable Aviation Fuels: Impact of Nano-Additives and Ammonia-Based Strategies on Emissions
Authors: Di Gloria P. , De Giorgi M. G. , Strafella L. , Ciccarella G. , Castelluzzo G. G. , Baldassarre F. , Ficarella A.
Published: August 2024

Our study investigates the impact of nanoparticulate additives—specifically those based on ammonia and water—on the combustion characteristics of Jet-A1 aviation fuel, using a 300-kW liquid swirl combustor. Experiments were conducted at two global equivalence ratios (Φ = 0.24 and Φ = 0.40), focusing on laminar flame speed (LFS) and flame properties through chemiluminescence imaging and modal analysis techniques. The primary objective was to understand how these nano-additives modulate flame dynamics and internal chemical reactions, alongside evaluating the environmental implications of combustion alterations. Results showed that integrating urea and water additives into the fuel matrix affected LFS, enhancing it at the lower equivalence ratio but having detrimental effects at the higher ratio. Modal analysis revealed a notable stabilizing influence on flame behavior, especially under leaner fuel conditions. The addition of water and urea influenced combustion chemistry and spray patterns, leading to more uniform sprays and more complete combustion. Chemiluminescence imaging demonstrated higher emission intensity of NH2* radicals compared to NH* radicals, varying with the global equivalence ratio. The data indicated a significant reduction in NOx emissions, particularly at lower equivalence ratios, accompanied by a slight increase in CO2 and CO emissions.
Passive Realization of Object Spatial Compliance by a Hand Having Multiple Four-Joint Hard Fingers
Authors: Huang Shuguang , Schimmels Joseph M.
Published: August 2024

This paper presents an approach to passively realize any specified object spatial compliance using the grasp of a robotic hand. The kinematically anthropomorphic hands considered have multiple 4-joint fingers making hard point contact with the held object, and the joints of each finger have selectable passive elastic behavior. It is shown that the space of passively realizable compliances is restricted by the kinematic structure of the anthropomorphic hand. To achieve an arbitrary compliant behavior, fingers must be able to adjust their orientation. Synthesis procedures for grasps having 3, 4, and 5 or more fingers are developed. These procedures identify the finger configurations and the individual finger joint compliances needed to passively achieve any specified spatial object compliance matrix in the 20-dimensional subspace of grasp-realizable behaviors.
Thermal Control System of Space Laser Communication Payload
Authors: Li Shijun , Wu Shaojun , Han Yanlong , Lv Shimeng , Xie Teng
Published: August 2024

This article mainly introduces the design of a thermal control system for laser communication payload. First, the commonly used thermal control technologies for spacecraft and the development of new thermal control technologies in recent years are introduced. Second, the structure and task characteristics of the laser communication payload are presented. Then, the thermal design of the laser communication payload is carried out with a combination of active and passive thermal control methods. To ensure the stability of the optical system, two separate shades are used in the design. Finally, a thermal balance test and in-orbit verification are conducted. The result of the thermal balance test indicates that the temperature range of the optical system is 20.9–22.1 °C. When in orbit, the temperature range of the optical system is 19.7–20.3 °C. The thermal balance test and in-orbit temperature meet the requirements of thermal control indicators, indicating that the thermal design scheme is correct and feasible.