bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate‐Induced Warming on the Mid‐Atlantic Bight Continental Shelf: Predictions of the Future Distribution and Carrying Capacity of the Atlantic Surfclam (Spisula solidissima) and the Expanding Ecotone With the Ocean Quahog (Arctica islandica)
Authors: Spencer Molly M. , Powell Eric N. , Klinck John M. , Munroe Daphne M. , LeClaire Alyssa M. , Borsetti Sarah , Scheld Andrew M. , Hofmann Eileen E. , Curchitser Enrique
Published: November 2024

The Atlantic surfclam, Spisula solidissima, and ocean quahog, Arctica islandica, are biomass dominant bivalve species on the eastern North American continental shelf, both supporting lucrative commercial fisheries in the Mid‐Atlantic with a combined value of about $53.6 million in ex‐vessel revenue per year. The thermal tolerance of Atlantic surfclam is generally below 20 °C, whereas the boreal ocean quahog resides in colder waters maintained by the Mid‐Atlantic Bight Cold Pool. Climate‐induced warming of bottom water temperatures is thought to be linked to the observed distributional shift of the Atlantic surfclam population into waters historically dominated by ocean quahogs. As climate change is expected to continue, this study investigated the future distributions of the two species from years 2016 to 2095 using projected bottom water temperatures and a temperature‐dependent population dynamics model. Simulations show the progressive colonization of Atlantic surfclams offshore into the region earlier occupied by the Cold Pool throughout the 79‐year projection, beginning between the mid‐2040s and mid‐2050s, effectively compressing ocean quahog habitat on all sides. Ocean quahogs are shown to be vulnerable to climate‐induced warming on both the southern, inshore, and offshore portions of the continental shelf, ultimately restricting their habitat by the end of the 21st century to the remaining core of the Cold Pool off Long Island. Atlantic surfclams, however, are likely to be less vulnerable to climate‐induced warming, ultimately increasing their geographic footprint across the MAB. Model projections indicate a large‐scale reorganization event of the continental shelf benthic community structure throughout the remainder of the 21st century.
Exploring Mirror Perspectives Among African American Women Living With Obesity at a Primary Care Clinic in the United States
Authors: Omondi Harriet , Freysteinson Wyona , Schultz Rebecca , Mbango Catherine
Published: November 2024

Aims

To uncover the mirror‐viewing experience in African‐American (AA) women with obesity.

Background

Obesity is among the most preventable healthcare epidemics and is linked to multiple health problems. Unfortunately, AA women are disproportionately affected by obesity. Mirror exposure has exclusively used mirrors to treat various eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating. Participants in prior mirror exposure studies reported increased self‐esteem, body image acceptance, behaviour modification, decreased weight and body shape concerns and lower rates of depression.

Design

This qualitative study used hermeneutic phenomenology to explore and methodically analyse participants' experiences.

Methods

Thirteen AA women who self‐identified as having obesity were interviewed. A phenomenological hermeneutical approach was used to explore their mirror‐viewing experience.

Results

Two environmental themes surrounding this phenomenon were (1) family and culture and (2) stereotype/stigma and bias. Five phenomenological themes were identified: (1) I do not like what I see, (2) the struggle is real, (3) camouflage, (4) call for action and (5) loving the skin you are in.

Conclusion

African‐American women grappling with obesity confront emotional and body image challenges compounded by family, culture, bias and a sense of alienation within society. The mirror, for many, is an everyday tool that becomes a call for action. Despite earnest attempts to pursue a healthier weight, many find it daunting. Additional investigation into sensitive mirror intervention studies specific to this demographic is warranted to address these multifaceted issues better.

Impact

The knowledge gained from the study offers an understanding of the mirror‐viewing experience in AA women with obesity.

Reporting Method

Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Resilience and the Dynamics of Job Demands: A Diary Study on Interactions in Healthcare Professionals During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Mazzetti Greta , Çetin Mehmet , Guglielmi Dina , Simbula Silvia
Published: November 2024

Aim(s)

To explore the day‐level interactions between challenge and hindrance job demands and their effects on work engagement and emotional exhaustion among healthcare professionals, focusing on the moderating role of resilience.

Design

A longitudinal, diary‐based design was employed.

Methods

This study utilised a multilevel modelling approach to analyse 351 diary entries from 85 healthcare professionals, collected during the COVID‐19 pandemic (in March–April 2021). Participants recorded their daily experiences, including job demands, work engagement, emotional exhaustion and resilience.

Results

Challenge demands, such as increased workload, are associated with both higher work engagement and greater emotional exhaustion, highlighting a dual impact. Resilience moderated these effects, reducing the negative impacts of both challenge and hindrance demands on emotional exhaustion. Surprisingly, higher resilience also diminished the positive relationship between effort and engagement.

Conclusion

The study highlights the critical role of resilience in moderating the effects of job demands on healthcare workers' well‐being, particularly under the stressful conditions of a global pandemic.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Insights from this study can assist healthcare organisations in developing strategies to enhance employee resilience and effectively manage job demands. Improved management of these factors can lead to better employee well‐being and sustained engagement, ultimately benefiting patient care during high‐stress periods.

Impact

The study addressed the impact of daily job demands on the well‐being and performance of healthcare workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The main findings highlighted the dual effects of challenge demands and the protective role of resilience in mitigating the adverse effects of job demands. This research will impact healthcare organisations and policymakers, informing strategies to bolster workforce resilience and well‐being, thereby potentially enhancing patient care during crises.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

Neither patients nor the public were involved in the design, conduct, reporting or dissemination plans of our research. Healthcare professionals participated only as research subjects and did not engage in any aspect of the research process.
Mapping Hospital in the Home Models of Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bransgrove Natalie J. , Porter Joanne E. , Peck Blake , Bishop Jaclyn
Published: November 2024

Aim

This systematic review aims to describe and compare the characteristics of Hospital in the Home (HITH) models of care within Australia.

Design

A systematic review of peer‐reviewed Australian literature.

Data Sources

Seven databases were searched in January 2024, followed by citation searching. Articles were included if they were described the HITH model of care and were published between 1994 and 2024.

Review Methods

Covidence was used to facilitate the removal of duplicates, independent total and abstract screening and full text review. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) was used to assess the quality of evidence, and title and abstract screening and full text review were completed by multiple authors. This ensured that all articles met the inclusion criteria and were then assessed, and the final articles were assessed using matrix analysis, and results were presented using narrative synthesis.

Results

Ten articles met the inclusion criteria, highlighting three models care; the medical model, the nursing model and the brokerage model.

Conclusions

There is limited research available that includes the model of care and patient outcomes. Future research needs to consider the differences between HITH programs, such as the model of care, admission pathway, utilisation of telehealth and geography of the population.

Implications for the Profession

This review may assist Australian HITH health professionals to improve the efficacy of the HITH model of care delivered within their health service and increase translatability of future HITH research.

Impact

This study highlighted for the first time the models of HITH care utilised within Australia. Three models of care are currently utilised within Australia, this knowledge may assist health services seeking to enhance their HITH model of care and policy writers.

Reporting Method

This review adhered to the EQUATOR guidelines, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Trial Registration: Registered with the international prospective register for protocols of systematic reviews in health social care CRD42024500950
Caregiver Perspectives and Preferences Regarding Timely Access to Unscheduled Acute Care in Paediatric Urgent Care Centers: A Qualitative Evaluation of Save My Spot Tool
Authors: Toraman Turk Sinem , Stone Lara , Bouvay Kamali , Lew Samantha , Juliani Kate , Tobler Janelle , Ahrens Kirsten , Schnadower David
Published: November 2024

Aim

Explore caregiver (i.e., person who provides direct care for a child and was present at the time of their medical visit) perspectives and preferences regarding timely access to unscheduled acute care as well as barriers and facilitators of the use of an online appointment tool (i.e., Save My Spot) in a satellite children's hospital five urgent care centers in the United States.

Design

A descriptive qualitative interview study.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 49 caregivers in a private room, in person and in conjunction with medical visits from June 2023 to the end of August 2023 after obtaining institutional ethical approvals. We employed deductive and inductive content analysis and used the MAXQDA data analysis tool.

Results

Average caregiver age was 37 years. Most of the caregivers were female, white, and non‐Hispanic and had low income. We identified three categories: (a) Caregiver preferences for using the Save My Spot online appointment tool and their reasons for buy‐in, (b) ways of promoting the Save My Spot tool and (c) enhancing the accessibility of the Save My Spot tool.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that when introduced successfully, caregivers adopt an online appointment tool and find it efficient in minimising wait times. Various approaches (e.g., social media, billboards) can be used to promote the tool to increase timely access to care.

Impact

This study provides valuable insights into the utilisation of an online appointment tool in the two hospital‐based and three stand‐alone neighbourhood urgent care centers of a large urban children's hospital. Future studies capturing different tools and populations are recommended to gain diverse understanding.

Reporting Methods

The study was reported following the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient or Public Contribution

Caregivers provided their perspectives and the Paediatric Emergency Medicine Disparities Working Group contributed to the interpretation of the study findings.
Transitions‐Related Support for Ageing Family Carers of Older People With Intellectual Disabilities Who Convey Behaviours That Challenge Others: A Systematic Rapid Scoping Review
Authors: Jordan J. , Larkin M. , Tilley E. , Vseteckova J. , Ryan S. , Wallace L.
Published: November 2024

Background

There are increasing numbers of ageing family carers of older (40+) adults with intellectual disabilities who convey behaviours that challenge others in the UK. It is important to understand the needs and experiences of these carers as they support their older family member to transition to different care contexts.

Method

A rapid scoping review of published and unpublished literature, using systematic methods of data searching, extraction and analysis.

Results

Exhaustion, reluctance to burden others, distrust of alternative living arrangements and deep interpersonal ties with their family member with intellectual disabilities mean ageing carers can avoid planning ahead. There is a lack of appropriate information, support and professional advice available. Developing trust in services is critical, as is a ‘whole family’ approach to planning.

Conclusions

More research is vital to understand the support ageing carers receive to make choices, and how it meets their needs.
The Effect of Preselection on the Level of Bias and Accuracy in a Broiler Breeder Population, a Simulation Study
Authors: de Hollander Charlie A. , Chu Thinh T. , Marois Danye , Felipe Vivian B. , Lopes Fernando B. , Calus Mario P. L.
Published: November 2024

Many breeding programmes have to perform preselection, as genotyping and phenotyping all potential breeder candidates is often not a feasible option. There is need to understand how preselection affects the quality of the genomic estimated breeding values (EBVs) at final selection and thereby can affect genetic progress. This simulation study evaluated nine different preselection strategies in a broiler breeder programme and their effect on the quality of the (genomic) EBVs and genetic progress for three different traits: body weight (Body Weight), residual feed intake (RFI) and body weight gain (Gain). All birds have Body Weight recorded at preselection, but only the preselected birds were phenotyped for RFI and Gain and genotyped. The following criteria and intensities were studied: preselection based on phenotypic Body Weight (P), on a BLUP index (B) or on an ssGBLUP Index (G). Additionally, all criteria were studied with three different selection intensities, 10% of the males and 30% of the females (P10, B10, G10), 15% of the males and 45% of the females (P15, B15, G15) and 20% of the males and 60% of the females (P20, B20, G20). The accuracy at preselection with G10 was more accurate than B10 for both RFI and Gain (0.71 vs. 0.58 and 0.65 vs. 0.55 respectively), and also G15 was more accurate than B15 for both RFI and Gain (0.72 vs. 0.63 and 0.67 vs. 0.64 respectively); thus, the difference in accuracy reduces with an increasing number of birds being preselected. Differences in accuracy at final selection were mostly notable in the RFI trait between P10, B10 and G10, where G10 showed the highest accuracy (0.82 vs. 0.84 vs. 0.86 respectively). This difference in accuracy for RFI disappeared when more animals were preselected. For Body Weight and Gain, the BLUP preselection resulted in the highest accuracy at final selection when selection intensity decreased. The dispersion bias of EBVs at final selection was most pronounced in the P10 and P15 for Body Weight (0.81 and 0.92) but disappeared at P20 (0.97). The dispersion bias for all other criteria and traits was relatively small. Genetic progress was mostly affected when P10 or P15 was used at preselection, where the progress in Body Weight was noticeably higher, but prominently lower for RFI and Gain. The BLUP and ssGBLUP preselection had very similar genetic progress across traits and showed comparable improvements in the selection index. In conclusion, with high preselection intensity, the use of ssGBLUP at preselection might be favoured as there is an improvement in genetic progress across traits in all scenarios, which is due to the increased preselection accuracy. When preselection intensity decreases, the benefit of using ssGBLUP over BLUP at preselection disappears.
A novel index for diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus: Cholesterol, High density lipoprotein, and Glucose (CHG) index
Authors: Mansoori Amin , Nosrati Mina , Dorchin Mohsen , Mohammadyari Fatemeh , Derakhshan‐Nezhad Elahe , Ferns Gordon , Esmaily Habibollah , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: November 2024

Background

Gold standard methods of type 2 diabetes mellitus are expensive and therefore not practical for large scale studies in low‐income countries. We have investigated the total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL), and glucose (CHG) index for diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus index which is derived from fasting state. In this study we aimed to compare the accuracy of with CHG index and triglycerides (TG) and glucose levels (TyG) as surrogates of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A total of 9,704 individuals between 35 and 65 years of age were recruited as part of the Mashhad stroke and heart atherosclerotic disorder (MASHAD) study. They were categorized into two groups, those with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus. The cut‐off in groups to detection of type 2 diabetes mellitus was fasting blood glucose ≥126 mg/dL in blood sample. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to establish the cut‐off of indices to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of them.

Results

The best cut‐off of CHG index for diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus was 5.57 which was associated with a sensitivity of 70.38% and specificity of 89.82% values. This was in comparison to the TyG index. LR+ CHG index was 6.91 compared to 3.47 for the TyG index and the AUC of CHG index was 0.864 (0.857, 0.871) compared with 0.825 (0.818, 0.833) for the TyG index. This indicates that the CHG index has a higher efficiency value to diagnose of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

The CHG index could be useful for the detection of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Hepatokine leukocyte cell‐derived chemotaxin 2 as a biomarker of insulin resistance, liver enzymes, and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in the general population
Authors: Suzuki Keita , Tsujiguchi Hiromasa , Hara Akinori , Takeshita Yumie , Goto Hisanori , Nakano Yujiro , Yamamoto Reina , Takayama Hiroaki , Tajima Atsushi , Yamashita Tatsuya , Honda Masao , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Takamura Toshinari
Published: November 2024

Aims/Introduction

Leukocyte cell‐derived chemotaxin 2 (LECT2) is an obesity‐associated hepatokine that causes skeletal muscle insulin resistance. Since LECT2 is up‐regulated by the inactivation of the energy sensor AMPK in the liver, we hypothesized that LECT2 has potential as a biomarker for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Therefore, we investigated whether circulating LECT2 levels are associated with insulin sensitivity, liver enzymes, and MASLD.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 138 Japanese individuals. Plasma LECT2 levels were measured using fasting blood samples. B‐mode ultrasonography was used to assess hepatic steatosis.

Results

The mean age and body mass index (BMI) of participants were 63.5 ± 10.2 years and 23.0 ± 3.1 kg/m2, respectively. Higher LECT2 levels positively correlated with homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) values and negatively correlated with the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) among all participants (HOMA‐IR; non‐standardized β (B) = 6.38, P < 0.01: QUICKI; B = −161, P < 0.01). These correlations were stronger in the low BMI group (HOMA‐IR; B = 13.85, P < 0.01: QUICKI; B = −180, P < 0.01). LECT2 levels also positively correlated with gamma‐glutamyl transferase levels (B = 0.01, P = 0.01) and alanine aminotransferase levels (B = 0.33, P = 0.02). Higher LECT2 levels correlated with the prevalence of MASLD (odds ratio = 1.14, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

The present results suggest the potential of plasma LECT2 levels as a biomarker for insulin resistance in individuals who are not overweight and the prevalence of MASLD in the general population.
Association of COVID‐19‐related violence and harassment with visiting nurses' mental health and intention to resign: A cross‐sectional study in Japan
Authors: Matoba Kei , Yayama So , Miki Akiko , Teshima Taiki
Published: November 2024

Background

Prejudice related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) reportedly led to violence against healthcare workers by clients and their families. However, the impact of such violence and harassment on the mental health of visiting nurses during the pandemic remains unclear.

Aim

We aimed to examine the association of violence and harassment against visiting nurses with their mental health and intention to resign during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Method

We conducted an anonymous self‐administered cross‐sectional questionnaire survey to gain insight into the victimization, mental health, and personal resources (i.e., coping profiles and work engagements) among visiting nurses in Osaka. A multiple regression analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to identify associations between COVID‐19‐related violence and harassment and mental health or the intention to resign. Open‐ended question data were assessed using content analysis to describe the details of the violence.

Results

Visiting nurses were victimized by various people, such as clients and their families, residents in communities they visited, their colleagues, and their own neighbors. COVID‐19‐related violence and harassment was not significantly associated with subjective psychological well‐being but was significantly associated with the intention to resign.

Conclusion

Visiting nurses experienced a comprehensive range of COVID‐19‐related violence and harassment during the pandemic, which may have affected their intention to resign. Coping strategies may be a possible way to mitigate the impact of such violence and harassment. During a novel infectious disease outbreak, adopting a new perspective is crucial, and managing mood swings may be helpful as an emotional coping mechanism.
Exploring Experiences and Perceptions of Stroke Survivors in Hospital‐To‐Home Transition Care: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Liu Shilin , Liu Xiaoyu , Yang Xinchen , Huang Shuyuan , Xie Wenguang , Xiao Wei , Deng Yulu , Zhang Chao
Published: November 2024

Aim

To integrate experiences and perceptions about stroke survivors during the transition from hospital‐to‐home care.

Data Sources

Seven databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Ovid, Web of Science, EBSCO and MEDLINE, were searched comprehensively from inception to March 2024, including qualitative studies published in English.

Design

A qualitative systematic review.

Methods

The search followed the Preferred Reporting Items report for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis (PRISMA 2020). The included research quality was assessed according to the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Meta‐aggregation was used to develop analytical themes. Confidence in the Evidence from the Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE‐CERQual) framework was applied to the findings.

Results

Fifteen qualitative studies were included, from which 54 findings were extracted. Similar findings were summarised into eight categories, resulting in four synthesised findings: Joy and sadness intertwined, Destruction of sense of self and life, External support and internal motivation, and Emotional longings and practical needs.

Conclusion

Stroke can lead to devastating changes in survivors' sense of self and physically. Through external support from family members and healthcare professionals, as well as internal motivation to cope positively, stroke survivors positively accept and adapt to life. Meanwhile they still have high expectations for personal independence and reintegration into society.

Impact

The review findings can guide health professionals, survivors and families in optimising care during the hospital‐to‐home transition.

Protocol Registration

PROSPERO [CRD42024522555].

Reporting

ENTREQ.

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Causes and clinical characteristics of women with primary amenorrhea and ovarian or gonadal disorders at a quaternary hospital
Authors: Peeyananjarassri Krantarat , Klangsin Satit , Chumkam Apisada , Wattanakumtornkul Saranya , Dhanaworavibul Kriengsak , Choksuchat Chainarong , Getpook Chatpavit , Matemanosak Phawat , Charalsawadi Chariyawan , Maisrikhaww Worathai
Published: November 2024

Aim

To evaluate the causes and clinical characteristics of primary amenorrhea and ovarian or gonadal disorders in women.

Methods

The medical records of all women evaluated for primary amenorrhea between January 2002 and December 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Women with missing data were excluded from the study. Disorders of the ovary or gonads (hypergonadotropic hypogonadism) were defined as increased serum follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) levels (>40 mIU/mL).

Results

Over a 21‐year period, after excluding 1 woman with incomplete data, the study included 87 women who met the inclusion criteria. The median age at presentation was 18 years (interquartile range [IQR], 17–20). The median estradiol level was 5 pg/mL (IQR 5–10.4), and the median FSH level was 80 mIU/mL (IQR 63.1–94.9). The most common cause of primary amenorrhea was Turner syndrome (TS), followed by 46,XX and 46,XY gonadal dysgenesis. The median height was 147 cm (IQR, 140–158.7), and 50 women (57.5%) had karyotypic abnormalities, with TS being the most common abnormality.

Conclusion

TS was identified as the most common cause of primary amenorrhea with ovarian or gonadal disorders.
Co‐Administration of Vitamin U and Antacids in Diets Relieves Gastric Ulcers in Finishing Pigs
Authors: Cao Shanchuan , Muniyappan Madesh , Kim San , Kim In Ho
Published: November 2024

One hundred and forty [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] barrows and gilts (86.5 ± 1.5 kg) were used in a 28‐day experiment in a randomised complete block design. A model of gastric ulcer was established by adding aspirin to the diet or by fasting. The five dietary treatments were TRT1 (basal diet), TRT2 (basal diet + fasting), TRT3 (basal diet + 0.05% vitamin U and antacids (VA)), TRT4 (basal diet + aspirin + fasting) and TRT5 (basal diet + aspirin + fasting + 0.1% VA). The active ingredients of VA are vitamin U 50 mg/g, magnesium oxide MgO 60 mg/g, sodium carbonate Na2CO3 70 mg/g. The result showed a significant increase in final body weight (p = 0.047) and average daily gain (p = 0.033) in TRT5 compared with TRT1 and TRT2 (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in carcass scores among treatment groups (p > 0.05). The stomach keratinisation score was significantly higher in TRT2 and TRT4 than that in TRT3 (p = 0.032). Stomach keratinisation score decreased from 1.9 to 1.4 in TRT5 compared with TRT4 (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the addition of VA to the diet can improve the degree of gastric ulcer to a certain extent and effectively improve growth performance.
Autotomy in Achala copper lizard: do sex and body size traits influence tail loss and regeneration?
Authors: Cabezas‐Cartes F. , Torres M. M. , Viladrich L.J. , Lopez Juri G. , Naretto S.
Published: November 2024

Autotomy in animals, the voluntary loss of a body part at a specific location, is a widespread behaviour observed across various groups. This mechanism provides several advantages, such as predator evasion, escape from entrapments, and even reduced injury costs from agonistic interactions. Lizards display tail autotomy in response to predation and intraspecific aggression. Moreover, it is common for these reptiles to have sexually dimorphic traits, such as colouration and body size, which may influence predation risk and consequently their antipredatory strategies. This study focuses on the Achala copper lizard (Pristidactylus achalensis) which inhabits an isolated highland ecosystem in central Argentina. This species is an ideal study model due to its territorial and aggressive behaviour, high intraspecific competition and sexual dichromatism. The aims of this study were to determine the influence of sex and body size on the occurrence of tail autotomy in P. achalensis. Additionally, we assessed the cost of autotomy by analysing the distance between the vent and the tail cut. Furthermore, we investigated the possibility of repeated tail autotomy by a single individual. Our results showed that in P. achalensis, sex and body size interacted significantly resulting in different patterns of tail autotomy. In females, the frequency of autotomy increased gradually with body size, whereas in males it increased more abruptly and reached its maximum frequency at smaller body sizes than in females. Males presented higher autotomy frequencies than females, likely because they are more likely to be perceived by avian predators than cryptic females. The findings of this study contribute to broadening the knowledge of lizard behaviour, shedding light on the complex interplay between predation, intraspecific competition and reproductive dynamics in this unique species.
Models of Hydration Dependent Lymphatic Opening, Interstitial Fluid Flows and Ambipolar Diffusion
Authors: Øien Alf H. , Tenstad Olav , Wiig Helge
Published: November 2024

Objective

A theoretical understanding of fluid exchange and the role of initial lymph formation in tissues through mathematical/physical modeling is lacking.

Methods

Here, we present three models for tissues rich in negative fixed charges due to glycosaminoglycans interacting with the extracellular matrix.

Results

We first model a lymphatic opening mechanism at relevant hydrations of the interstitium. At each hydration affecting tissue strain, two equations coupled in time are developed and solved with the new lymphatic opening and particle draining mechanism. The lymphatic opening mechanism is then included in a new model of interstitial fluid and macromolecular flow where the influence of different exclusion and available volumes for charged and neutral particles are quantified. For therapeutic interactions with cells, essential differences are found between electrically charged and neutral therapeutic substances. The interstitial fluid hydrostatic pressure gradient and flow are expressed through an extended Darcy equation, derived using similar methods as in kinetic theory of dense gases and fluid flows. Finally, a model for ambipolar diffusion of electrically charged macromolecules in tissue is developed.

Conclusions

Our study will inform transport of charged and neutral macromolecules between the vasculature, interstitium, and the lymphatic system, thus having implications for tissue uptake of therapeutic agents.
The bayesian and the abductivist
Authors: Skipper Mattias , Vassend Olav Benjamin
Published: November 2024

A major open question in the borderlands between epistemology and philosophy of science concerns whether Bayesian updating and abductive inference are compatible. Some philosophers—most influentially Bas van Fraassen—have argued that they are not. Others have disagreed, arguing that abduction, properly understood, is indeed compatible with Bayesianism. Here we present two formal results that allow us to tackle this question from a new angle. We start by formulating what we take to be a minimal version of the claim that abduction is a rational pattern of reasoning. We then show that this minimal abductivist principle, when combined with Bayesian updating by conditionalization, places surprisingly strong and controversial constraints on how we must measure explanatory power. The lesson is not that Bayesianism is definitely incompatible with abduction, but that both compatibilism and incompatibilism have hitherto unrecognized consequences. We end the paper by formulating these consequences in the form of a trilemma.
Association of childhood obesity with pubertal development in boys: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Jia‐Shuan , Gao Chang , Xiao Wan‐Qing , Zhang Xuan‐Yu , Zhong Xiao‐Wen , Qin Yi‐Qi , Lu Min‐Shan , Zhang Cheng‐Hao , Yang Kun , Liang Jia‐Min , Wang Chi Chiu , Ma Ronald Ching Wan , He Jian‐Rong , Qiu Xiu
Published: November 2024

Childhood obesity leads to early puberty development in girls, but its effect in boys remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to study the association between childhood obesity and puberty development in boys. We included 14 cohort studies with 114,822 boys. Meta‐analysis showed that childhood overweight (RR, 1.44; 95%CI, 1.08–1.93; the number of studies [N] = 4) and obesity (RR, 1.35; 95%CI, 1.11–1.64; N = 5) were associated with the earlier occurrence of testicular volume ≥4 mL (Tanner stage 2). Age reaching Tanner stage 2 in overweight boys was earlier than normal‐weight boys (mean difference: −0.23 years, 95% CI: −0.37 to −0.08; N = 2); a similar trend was observed in obese boys, but the effect estimate did not reach significance level (mean difference: −0.27 years, 95% CI: −0.59 to 0.05; N = 3). Similarly, the age at pubarche in boys with overweight/obesity was earlier than those with normal weight. Qualitative analysis shows first nocturnal emission; change in voice and peak height velocity in boys with overweight/obesity appeared to develop earlier than those with normal weight. These findings suggest overweight/obesity is associated with earlier pubertal development in boys. Due to the limited number of studies identified in this review, further studies are warranted to confirm these associations.
Overexpression of Phytoglobin1 in Rice Leads to Enhanced Nitrogen Use Efficiency via Modulation of Nitric Oxide
Authors: Samant Sanjib Bal , Swain Jagannath , Yadav Nidhi , Yadav Reena , Singh Pooja , Rai Preeti , Sheri Vijay , Sreeman Sheshshayee , Subramanyam Rajagopal , Pareek Ashwani , Gupta Kapuganti Jagadis
Published: November 2024

Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the byproducts of nitrogen metabolism. Excess amount of NO is scavenged by phytoglobins. The role of phytoglobin mediated NO homoeostasis in modulation of nitrate transporters was investigated using NO scavenger cPTIO, phytoglobin overexpressing rice and Arabidopsis. Growing plants under low nitrate leads to generation of reduced levels of NO accompanied by elevated expression of high affinity transporters (HATs) such as NRT2.1, NRT2.3 and NRT2.4. Scavenging of NO by cPTIO under optimal nitrate caused enhanced HATs expression. Phytoglobin overexpressing Arabidopsis showed improved growth and enhanced expression of HATs under low nitrogen in comparison to WT. Pretreatment of optimal nitrate grown plants with NO scavenger cPTIO enhanced HATs expression and shifting of these primed plants from optimal to low nitrate leads to further elevation of HATs expression accompanied by enhanced nitrogen uptake and its accumulation with positive effect on growth. Phytoglobin overexpression in rice leads to enhanced HATs expression, improved growth, nitrogen accumulation under low nitrate. Pgb OE lines showed enhanced accumulation of amino acids. Taken together our results suggest an important role of phytoglobins in nitrogen uptake and assimilation.
Portrayal of risk information and its impact on audiences’ risk perception during the Covid‐19 pandemic: A multi‐method approach
Authors: Wiedicke Annemarie , Stehr Paula , Rossmann Constanze
Published: November 2024

Over the last years, infectious diseases have been traveling across international borders faster than ever before, resulting in major public health crises such as the Covid‐19 pandemic. Given the rapid changes and unknown risks that mark such events, risk communication faces the challenge to raise awareness and concern among the public without creating panic. Drawing on the social amplification of risk framework—a concept that theorizes how and why risks are amplified or attenuated during the (1) transfer of risk information (by, for instance, news media) and (2) audiences’ interpretation and perception of these information—we were interested in the portrayal of risk information and its impact on audiences’ risk perception over the first wave of the Covid‐19 pandemic in Germany. We therefore conducted a quantitative content analysis of a major public and private television (TV) newscast (N = 321) and combined it with survey data (two‐wave panel survey, t1: N = 1378 and t2: N = 1061). Our results indicate that TV news (as a major information source at that time) were characterized by both risk‐attenuating and risk‐amplifying characteristics, although risk‐amplifying attributes were particularly pronounced by the private TV newscast. Notably, those who only used private TV news between both waves showed the highest perceived severity at time 2. However, the interaction effect of time and use of public and/or private TV news was only significant for perceived susceptibility. Overall, more research is needed to examine the effects of different types of media and changes in risk perceptions over time.
Oxidation of four monoterpenoid indole alkaloid classes by three cytochrome P450 monooxygenases from Tabernaemontana litoralis
Authors: Mai Zhan , Kim Kyunghee , Richardson Matthew Bailey , Deschênes Daniel André Ramey , Garza‐Garcia Jorge Jonathan Oswaldo , Shahsavarani Mohammadamin , Perley Jacob Owen , Njoku Destiny Ichechi , Deslongchamps Ghislain , De Luca Vincenzo , Qu Yang
Published: November 2024

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) are well known for their ability to catalyze diverse oxidation reactions, playing a significant role in the biosynthesis of various natural products. In the realm of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIAs), one of the largest groups of alkaloids in nature, CYPs are integral to reactions such as hydroxylation, epoxidation, ring opening, ring rearrangement, and aromatization, contributing to the extensive diversification of these compounds. In this study, we investigate the transcriptome, metabolome, and MIA biosynthesis in Tabernaemontana litoralis (milky way tree), a prolific producer of rare pseudoaspidosperma‐type MIAs. Alongside known pseudoaspidosperma biosynthetic genes, we identify and characterize three new CYPs that facilitate regio‐ and stereospecific oxidation of four MIA skeletons: iboga, aspidosperma, pseudoaspidosperma, and quebrachamine. Notably, the tabersonine 14,15‐β‐epoxidase catalyzes the formation of pachysiphine, the stereoisomer of 14,15‐α‐epoxytabersonine (lochnericine) found in Catharanthus roseus (Madagascar periwinkle) roots. The pseudovincadifformine 18‐hydroxylase is the first CYP identified to modify a pseudoaspidosperma skeleton. Additionally, we demonstrate that the enzyme responsible for C10‐hydroxylation of the iboga MIA coronaridine also catalyzes C10‐hydroxylation of voaphylline, which bears a quebrachamine skeleton. With the discovery of a new MIA, 11‐hydroxypseudovincadifformine, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of MIA biosynthesis and diversification in T. litoralis, highlighting its potential for further exploration.
Application and influence of four drain configurations on fluid dispersal and retrieval in a cadaveric canine wound infusion‐retrieval system model
Authors: Anderson Makensie L. , Bates Miriam , Risselada Marije , Moore George E.
Published: November 2024

Objective

To describe fluid dispersal and retrieval patterns in an infusion‐retrieval system across various configurations and locations in a cadaveric canine model.

Study design

Cadaveric study.

Animals

Four large breed canines.

Methods

Four full‐thickness wounds (10 × 10 cm) were created bilaterally in four canine cadavers (shoulder, thorax, flank, and thigh). A wound infusion catheter and active suction drain were placed in four configurations (diagonal, opposite, parallel, and perpendicular) and the incisions were closed. Diluted methylene blue was instilled, allowed to dwell for 10 min, and quantified after retrieval. A 14 × 14 cm full‐thickness skin segment, including the initial 10 × 10 cm wound, was removed. Images of the removed skin and cadaver wound bed were taken to calculate surface area (SA) and to evaluate fluid dispersion. A mixed‐effects linear regression model was used for statistical analysis.

Results

Fluid retrieval did not differ by configuration (p = .92) or location (p = .32), although the perpendicular configuration resulted in the highest retrieval (11.35 ± 6.1 mL) (56.8 ± 30% volume instilled) and the flank location resulted in the lowest (7.2 ± 6.4 mL) (35.9 ± 32% volume instilled). Configuration influenced SA coverage of the wound bed (p < .01), whereas location did not (p = .10). The parallel configuration had the greatest SA coverage (83.4 ± 11.6%). No difference existed for leakage of methylene blue (MB) beyond the borders for configuration (p = .74) or location (p = .10).

Conclusion

The parallel configuration maximized the fluid dispersion within the cadaveric wound bed in comparison with other configurations (p < .01).

Clinical significance

An infusion‐retrieval system could be considered during wound closure to administer topical solutions and remove excess free fluid.
Rules or Forward Guidance versus Discretion in Monetary Policy, Evidence from two Behavioral Experiments
Authors: Conrad Christian A.
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the impact of rules or forward guidance versus unpredictable discretion in monetary policy on economic performance with two behavioral experiments. It simulates two distinct environments for investment decision-makers: one characterized by a fixed interest rate and another with variable interest rates. When the central bank deviates from clear and transparent rules, its monetary policy becomes unpredictable for economic decision-makers, which hinders the efficient functioning of the economy. In the discretionary experimental scenario, fluctuations in interest rates resulted in monetary business cycles. Consequently, the Wicksell hypothesis was confirmed by the experiment: errors made by the central bank in controlling interest rates can trigger economic fluctuations. If central banks do not communicate their policies clearly or do not apply transparent rules, this will cost jobs and growth.
Modeling Magneto-Active Soft Robots in Vessels Based on Discrete Differential Geometry of Framed Curves
Authors: Zhou Anni , Tan Kai , Yan Zhi , Deng Qian
Published: November 2024

Cardiac arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, pose significant health risks and are often treated using minimally invasive cardiac ablation. However, the limited maneuverability of mechanically driven catheters can undermine both the success and efficiency of the procedure. In contrast, magnetic soft continuum robots (MSCRs) offer a promising alternative by utilizing external magnetic fields to directly steer the catheter tip. This approach allows for precise control, simplifying navigation through intricate vascular systems, ensuring stable contact with lesions, and minimizing manual manipulation. To optimize the use of MSCRs in magnetically assisted cardiac ablation, it is crucial to model their behavior, focusing on contact with the vascular environment. This article establishes a theoretical model of MSCRs based on Cosserat beam theory and discrete differential geometry (DDG). The model is validated and subsequently used to simulate three scenarios: partially magnetized MSCRs, MSCRs with point contacts, and MSCRs with line contacts. The results reveal significant nonlinear behavior upon contact. By applying our model, we demonstrate how adjustments of the magnetic field's direction, magnitude, and MSCR length can guide navigation through bifurcated vessels and achieve precise contact with a lesion. These findings provide valuable insights into the design and control of MSCRs, enabling more efficient, simulation-driven guidance for minimally invasive procedures and advancing digital health care in endovascular applications.
Design Knowledge as Attention Emphasizer in Large Language Model-Based Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Han Yi , Moghaddam Mohsen
Published: November 2024

Aspect-based sentiment analysis (ABSA) enables a systematic identification of user opinions on particular aspects, thus improving the idea creation process in the initial stages of a product/service design. Large language models (LLMs) such as T5 and GPT have proven powerful in ABSA tasks due to their inherent attention mechanism. However, some key limitations remain. First, existing research mainly focuses on relatively simpler ABSA tasks such as aspect-based sentiment analysis, while the task of extracting aspects, opinions, and sentiment in a unified model remains largely unaddressed. Second, current ABSA tasks overlook implicit opinions and sentiments. Third, most attention-based LLMs use position encoding in a linear projected manner or through split-position relations in word distance schemes, which could lead to relation biases during the training process. This paper incorporates domain knowledge into LLMs by introducing a new position encoding strategy for the transformer model. This paper addresses these gaps by (1) introducing the ACOSI (aspect, category, opinion, sentiment, implicit indicator) analysis task, developing a unified model capable of extracting all five types of labels in the ACOSI analysis task simultaneously in a generative manner; (2) designing a new position encoding method in the attention-based model; and (3) introducing a new benchmark based on ROUGE score that incorporates design domain knowledge inside. The numerical experiments on manually labeled data from three major e-Commerce retail stores for apparel and footwear products showcase the domain knowledge inserted transformer method’s performance, scalability, and potential.
Energy-Efficient Three-Wheel Bleedless Electrical Environmental Control System for a Passenger Aircraft
Authors: Negi Vinay Pratap Singh , Ranganayakulu Chennu
Published: November 2024

The environmental control system (ECS) of an aircraft is designed to create a comfortable and suitable atmosphere for both passengers and crew, as well as the avionics. Additionally, the ECS represents the highest power consumers within nonpropulsive systems in an aircraft. With sustainable technology development for aircraft, secondary systems such as the ECS are evolving from conventional bleed air to electric-type to improve energy efficiency by reducing fuel consumption. This study introduces a novel electrically driven ECS (EECS) that is designed to replace the existing bleed-air-driven three-wheel air cycle system (ACS) and the high-pressure water separation subsystem (HPWS) of the Airbus 320 (A320) passenger aircraft's ECS during cruise conditions. matlab was used to construct the system component model of the ECS to verify the accuracy of the data from A320. The performance of the proposed EECS was compared with that of the existing bleed-air system in terms of cabin requirements. The conventional ECS's bleed-air off-take from the engine caused a 50% higher fuel mass penalty for missions lasting 5–15 h, which exceeds the shaft power off-take of the EECS. The energy required for the conventional ECS and EECSs was 3.59 MJ and 1.78 MJ, respectively.