bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling elicitation: a socioecological sensemaking-driven path across innovation in capitalist representations
Authors: Barile Sergio , La Sala Antonio , Nespoli Chiara , Calabrese Mario
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The paper positions social and technological innovation as pivotal counterforces to conservative resistance against change, particularly in light of the recurrent economic and technological upheavals characterizing the present shape of capitalism.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a qualitative methodology, rooted in a comparative case study approach, offering a critical retrospective analysis of societal disruptions and transformations. Central to this methodological framework is the construct of sensemaking, which is characterized as the process by which collective entities retrospectively develop plausible narratives that rationalize their experiences. The approach is informed by the dynamics of socio-ecological systems, which are understood to undergo cyclical phases of growth, stabilization, collapse, and regeneration.

Findings

The study shows evidence that resilience and adaptability are more authentically gauged by socio-technological responses to cyclical disruptions and recoveries. It delineates sensemaking as a crucial socioecological mechanism through which elicitation emerges and societies and organizations navigate these cycles, forging shared narratives from collective experiences that are driven by plausibility rather than mere accuracy.

Practical implications

The research calls for the development of policies that synthesize disruptive innovations with strategies for social cohesion. Such policies must ensure the protection of the socioeconomic texture from implicit structural precariousness arising from innovation. The ability to integrate and institutionalize change is emphasized as crucial, demanding a synergy between innovative creativity, new normative frameworks, and the preservation of fundamental societal values.

Originality/value

The paper challenges reductionist technological interpretations of societal changes, advocating for a holistic perspective that accounts for the redistributive and elicitation roles as vital to the evolution of socio-economic systems. The value of this research lies in its comprehensive framing of these transformations, underscoring the importance of a multi-faceted understanding in the effective management of socioeconomic change.
Multidimensional energy poverty and human well-being: household-level evidence from India
Authors: Acharya Rajesh H. , Sadath Anver C.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the relationship between energy poverty and the well-being of people using Amartya Sen’s capability approach to development as theoretical underpinning.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses household-level energy access data collected by the Harvard Dataverse in 2015 and 2018. The authors use multidimensional indices to measure energy poverty and well-being. Further, the authors apply quantile regression approach to measure the relationship between energy poverty and well-being.

Findings

The study’s findings reveal that energy poverty and well-being are negatively related. India has made progress in reducing energy poverty and improving well-being during the study period. However, progress in reducing energy poverty is largely due to improved access to electricity and improvement in well-being due to income and financial inclusion. Using modern cooking fuel has a greater negative impact on well-being compared to lighting using electricity. Further, households spending a greater proportion of their income on modern energy fuels leads to a lower quality of life as it precludes them from using it for other purposes. The study records wide variations in the observed relationship between energy poverty and well-being across various socioeconomic groups.

Practical implications

This calls for improvement in the production and distribution of modern energy resources, which have substantial welfare implications.

Originality/value

This is the first study to measure the relationship between energy poverty and quality of life using multidimensional indices. The findings of this paper have policy implications for the pricing of energy resources and energy access measures.
Evaluation of tribological performance in contact pairs by implementing the biomimetic surface textures with lubricant flow using CFD techniques
Authors: Abhilash Madaparthi , Ramkumar Penchaliah , Vengadesan Sankaranarayanan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the tribological benefits of a biomimetic teardrop surface texture inspired by snakeskin compared to conventional surface textures with the help of geometrical and flow parameters using computational fluid dynamics techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

The lubricant is assumed to be Newtonian, and the flow is laminar with constant viscosity and isothermal property. The governing equations, continuity and Navier–Stokes equation, are discretised by the finite volume method, and cavitation modelling is included. The discretisation for the momentum equations is carried out using the second-order difference method for the SIMPLEC algorithm of pressure–velocity coupling.

Findings

The results indicate that biomimetic teardrop surface texturing performs better than conventional shapes surface textures in improving tribological performance. Furthermore, the parallel texture orientation along with the flow generates a high-pressure distribution relative to other orientations. Surface texture area density also highly influences the load-carrying capacity, which is optimum at 29%. Zigzag pattern arrangement performs better compared to linear pattern arrangement of texturing.

Originality/value

The paper proposes that this unique biomimetic teardrop shape can give better tribological performance than conventional shapes.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2024-0053/
Multi-objective optimization of parts construction direction by scaling-enumeration method in L-PBF process
Authors: Zhao Xi , Wang Tong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Part building orientation (PBO) is an important factor affecting the quality of laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), which can affect the surface quality and manufacturing cost. The purpose of this paper is to propose a PBO optimization method to optimize the surface roughness and molding time of parts at the same time on the premise of small calculation scale and arbitrary resolution.

Design/methodology/approach

Efficient and accurate evaluation is an important index of PBO optimization method. In this paper, a PBO optimization method based on scaling enumeration method is proposed, and the surface roughness and molding time of L-PBF parts are modeled as the objective evaluation function of PBO optimization process. To realize multi-objective optimization, an expert system is established, and the fuzzy multiple-attribute group decision-making theory is used to provide weights for each objective evaluation function.

Findings

Research shows that the scaling-enumeration method can optimize the surface roughness and molding time at the same time and get the best PBO. Compared with the traditional method, the surface roughness and molding time are reduced by 1.1% and 0.58%, respectively, and the operation scale of the scaling-enumeration method is reduced by 99% compared with the traditional method. PBO with arbitrary angular resolution can be achieved.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new method to optimize the forming direction of L-PBF parts. This method has small operation scale and accurate results, so it is meaningful for industrial application.
Genome‐resolved metagenomics reveals diverse taxa and metabolic complexity in Antarctic lake microbial structures
Authors: Greco Carla , Andersen Dale T. , Yallop Marian L. , Barker Gary , Jungblut Anne D.
Published: June 2024

Lake Untersee, a lake in Antarctica that is perennially covered with ice, is home to unique microbial structures that are not lithified. We have evaluated the structure of the community and its metabolic potential across the pigmented upper layers and the sediment‐enriched deeper layers in these pinnacle and cone‐shaped microbial structures using metagenomics. These microbial structures are inhabited by distinct communities. The upper layers of the cone‐shaped structures have a higher abundance of the cyanobacterial MAG Microcoleus, while the pinnacle‐shaped structures have a higher abundance of Elainellacea MAG. This suggests that cyanobacteria influence the morphologies of the mats. We identified stark contrasts in the composition of the community and its metabolic potential between the upper and lower layers of the mat. The upper layers of the mat, which receive light, have an increased abundance of photosynthetic pathways. In contrast, the lower layer has an increased abundance of heterotrophic pathways. Our results also showed that Lake Untersee is the first Antarctic lake with a substantial presence of ammonia‐oxidizing Nitrospiracea and amoA genes. The genomic capacity for recycling biological molecules was prevalent across metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs) that cover 19 phyla. This highlights the importance of nutrient scavenging in ultra‐oligotrophic environments. Overall, our study provides new insights into the formation of microbial structures and the potential metabolic complexity of Antarctic laminated microbial mats. These mats are important environments for biodiversity that drives biogeochemical cycling in polar deserts.
Bacterial community and cyanotoxin gene distribution of the Winam Gulf, Lake Victoria, Kenya
Authors: Brown Katelyn M. , Barker Katelyn B. , Wagner Ryan S. , Ward Christopher S. , Sitoki Lewis , Njiru James , Omondi Reuben , Achiya James , Getabu Albert , McKay R. Michael , Bullerjahn George S. ,   the NSF‐IRES Lake Victoria Research Consortium
Published: June 2024

The Winam Gulf (Kenya) is frequently impaired by cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHABs) due to inadequate wastewater treatment and excess agricultural nutrient input. While phytoplankton in Lake Victoria have been characterized using morphological criteria, our aim is to identify potential toxin‐producing cyanobacteria using molecular approaches. The Gulf was sampled over two successive summer seasons, and 16S and 18S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing was performed. Additionally, key genes involved in production of cyanotoxins were examined by quantitative PCR. Bacterial communities were spatially variable, forming distinct clusters in line with regions of the Gulf. Taxa associated with diazotrophy were dominant near Homa Bay. On the eastern side, samples exhibited elevated cyrA abundances, indicating genetic capability of cylindrospermopsin synthesis. Indeed, near the Nyando River mouth in 2022, cyrA exceeded 10 million copies L−1 where there were more than 6000 Cylindrospermopsis spp. cells mL−1. In contrast, the southwestern region had elevated mcyE gene (microcystin synthesis) detections near Homa Bay where Microcystis and Dolichospermum spp. were observed. These findings show that within a relatively small embayment, composition and toxin synthesis potential of cHABs can vary dramatically. This underscores the need for multifaceted management approaches and frequent cyanotoxin monitoring to reduce human health impacts.
Seeking residents' views regarding Australian residential aged care: A scoping review
Authors: Caine Anne‐Maree , Gustafsson Louise , Molineux Matthew , Aplin Tammy
Published: June 2024

Objective

This scoping review aimed to explore topics on which the views of residents of Australian residential aged care facilities (RACFs) have been sought.

Methods

Scoping review methodology as outlined by Arksey and O'Malley was used to identify, explore and report on the range of literature regarding views of RACF residents. Seven electronic databases were searched using broad search terms relevant to the RACF context. Descriptive numerical analysis was completed for publication year, journal name and target profession, research methods and participant types. Thematic analysis then focussed on the aims of the included studies.

Results

Four thousand two hundred and ninety studies were screened, and 104 publications met the inclusion criteria. A broad range of topics were explored by researchers, with the largest number of papers focused on residents' views of systems within RACFs (n = 24) and new programs and interventions (n = 21). Smaller topic areas included health conditions and health‐care services (n = 13), socialisation (n = 13), physical activity (n = 3), self‐care (n = 4), leisure (n = 4), general everyday life (n = 20) and aspects of the residential aged care environment (n = 15). There was limited exploration of meaningful activity (n = 13). The inclusion of residents with cognitive impairment was inconsistent, and the voices of other stakeholders were often privileged.

Conclusions

Voices of residents must be heard in order to prioritise the health and well‐being of this population. More research which focuses on what is important to residents is needed and must include residents with cognitive impairment more effectively. Identification of optimal research methods with this population would make an important contribution in this area.
A Most Significant Change evaluation of a new co‐designed tool to measure holistic well‐being in consumers of community aged care services
Authors: Wells Yvonne , Haines Simon , Hampton Ilsa
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate a Wellbeing Check‐in tool and process for use with BlueCare's home care package (HCP) clients by care and well‐being practitioners. The tool had been co‐designed with HCP clients and trialled with 15 clients.

Methods

The Most Significant Change (MSC) methodology was used to gather stories from five practitioners, five HCP staff and seven clients. A workshop with senior staff was held to determine themes and whether the tool met its aims.

Results

Out of 22 MSC stories, 18 were judged in scope by workshop participants. Eight themes were then identified. Four themes reflected the content of the narratives (i.e. what was discussed): Isolation and connection; Grief; Faith/explicit spirituality; and Client preference. The other four themes reflected the process (i.e. what the discussions meant to participants): Being there/Meaningful conversations; Impact on significant others; New insight; and Purpose of the check‐in. These eight themes largely reflected the aims of the Wellbeing Check‐in tool in terms of providing a means to optimise connectedness, well‐being and spiritual care in accordance with the client's needs, goals and preferences. Unanticipated findings included its benefits for family members and uncertainty about the aim or value of the tool, which highlighted the need for BlueCare to be clear about the purpose of the tool in promoting it to clients and their informal carers.

Conclusions

The Wellbeing Check‐in tool was found to be fit for purpose. A tool used flexibly to prompt discussion about well‐being can be helpful to clients and pastoral care staff.
Functional diversity of avian communities in response to habitat fragmentation in human‐dominated landscapes of Tanzania miombo woodlands
Authors: Kavana David J. , Mbije Nsajigwa , Mayeji Teclamageni S. , Yu Bing
Published: June 2024

Biodiversity conservation in human‐inhabited landscapes is increasingly gaining attention due to the global decline of species. Understanding the impact of human activities on avian functional ecology is becoming increasingly important as habitats are transformed. We assessed the influence of habitat fragmentation on avian functional diversity (FD), focusing on metrics like functional richness (FRic), evenness (FEve) and divergence (FDiv). We calculated the FRic, FEve and FDiv across habitats using ‘fundiversity’ R package. We also calculated the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and estimated land‐use cover of the study area from Landsat 8 images. We observed higher FD in minimally disturbed habitats, where among the habitats, woodland had high FD while human settlement had low. This supports the intermediate disturbance hypothesis, which suggests that moderate disturbance can increase species diversity. Our findings emphasise the pivotal role of fragmented habitats in shaping avian functional ecology, with environmental variables such as the EVI influencing diversity across habitats. Hence, we promote sustainable conservation connectivity, proper land management practices and conservation‐friendly agricultural practices for sustainable biodiversity conservation.
Mechanomyography reflects the changes in oxygenated hemoglobin during electrically evoked cycling in individuals with spinal cord injury
Authors: Hamzaid Nur Azah , Hamdan Puteri Nur Farhana , Teoh Mira Xiao‐Hui , Abd Razak Nasrul Anuar , Hasnan Nazirah , Davis Glen M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling has been reported to enhance muscle strength and improve muscle fatigue resistance after spinal cord injury (SCI). Despite its proposed benefits, the quantification of muscle fatigue during FES cycling remains poorly documented. This study sought to quantify the relationship between the vibrational performance of electrically‐evoked muscles measured through mechanomyography (MMG) and its oxidative metabolism through near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) characteristics during FES cycling in fatiguing paralyzed muscles in individuals with SCI.

Methods

Six individuals with SCI participated in the study. They performed 30 min of FES cycling with MMG and NIRS sensors on their quadriceps throughout the cycling, and the signals were analyzed.

Results

A moderate negative correlation was found between MMG root mean square (RMS) and oxyhaemoglobin (O2Hb) [r = −0.38, p = 0.003], and between MMG RMS and total hemoglobin (tHb) saturation [r = −0.31, p = 0.017]. Statistically significant differences in MMG RMS, O2Hb, and tHb saturation occurred during pre‐ and post‐fatigue of FES cycling (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

MMG RMS was negatively associated with O2Hb and muscle oxygen derived from NIRS. MMG and NIRS sensors showed good inter‐correlations, suggesting a promising use of MMG for characterizing metabolic fatigue at the muscle oxygenation level during FES cycling in individuals with SCI.
Editorial: Retreatment of direct‐acting antiviral failures with the current first‐line regimens for patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Ogawa Eiichi
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Ruiz‐Cobo et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18020
Letter: Shifting focus—From ChatGPT to specialised medical LLMs
Authors: Wang Shuo , Kinoshita Shotaro , Yokoyama Hiromi M.
Published: June 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Giuffrè et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18058 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18125.
Establishing a sense of community: Moral socialization in girls‐only football for inclusion
Authors: Wirzén Madeleine , Ekholm David
Published: June 2024

This article explores the establishment of a sense of community within a girls‐only sports‐based intervention targeting social inclusion in a socially disadvantaged area of Sweden. Employing an ethnographic approach involving participant observations and interviews, the study shows how moral socialization, through practices of discipline, teaching and care, fosters a sense of community. Through detailed observations, the study illustrates that community formation is an active, relational construct rather than a pre‐existing entity, shaped significantly by both leaders and participants. Our findings reveal that the girls, through reflective engagement with norms and moral values, co‐create a community that promotes social inclusion.
ICA1 affects APP processing through the PICK1‐PKCα signaling pathway
Authors: Ji Liangye , Meng ZiJun , Dong Xiangjun , Wang Qunxian , Jiang Yanshuang , Zhang Jie , Hu Dongjie , Guo Shipeng , Zhou Weihui , Song Weihong
Published: June 2024

Aims

Islet cell autoantigen 1 (ICA1) is involved in autoimmune diseases and may affect synaptic plasticity as a neurotransmitter. Databases related to Alzheimer's disease (AD) have shown decreased ICA1 expression in patients with AD. However, the role of ICA1 in AD remains unclear. Here, we report that ICA1 expression is decreased in the brains of patients with AD and an AD mouse model.

Results

The ICA1 increased the expression of amyloid precursor protein (APP), disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 (ADAM10), and disintegrin and metalloprotease 17 (ADAM17), but did not affect protein half‐life or mRNA levels. Transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that ICA1 regulates the G protein‐coupled receptor signaling pathway. The overexpression of ICA1 increased PKCα protein levels and phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that ICA1 shifts APP processing to non‐amyloid pathways by regulating the PICK1‐PKCα signaling pathway. Thus, this study suggests that ICA1 is a novel target for the treatment of AD.
Effects of combined training on nonshivering thermogenic activity of muscles in individuals with overweight and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Finardi Enrico Antonio Rautenberg , Bonfante Ivan Luiz Padilha , Monfort‐Pires Milena , Duft Renata Garbellini , Mateus Keryma Chaves da Silva , Brunetto Sergio Querino , Chacon‐Mikahil Mara Patricia T. , Ramos Celso Darío , Velloso Licio Augusto , Cavaglieri Cláudia R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Increased thermogenic activity has shown to be a promising target for treating and preventing obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Little is known about the muscular influence on nonshivering thermogenesis (NST), and it remains unclear whether physical training and potential metabolic improvements could be associated with changes in this type of thermogenic activity.

Objective

The present study aimed to assess muscular NST activity in overweight and T2DM before and after a combined training period (strength training followed by aerobic exercise).

Methods

Nonshivering cold‐induced 18‐fluoroxyglucose positron emission computed tomography (18F‐FDG PET/CT) was performed before and after 16 weeks of combined training in 12 individuals with overweight and T2DM. The standard uptake value (SUV) of 18F‐FDG was evaluated in skeletal muscles, the heart and the aorta.

Results

Muscles in the neck region exhibit higher SUV pre‐ and posttraining. Furthermore, a decrease in glucose uptake by the muscles of the lower and upper extremities and in the aorta was observed after training when adjusted for brown adipose tissue (BAT). These pre–post effects are accompanied by increased cardiac SUV and occur concurrently with heightened energy expenditure and metabolic improvements.

Conclusions

Muscles in the neck region have greater metabolic activity upon exposure to cold. In addition, combined training appears to induce greater NST, favoring the trunk and neck region compared to limbs based on joint work and adaptations between skeletal muscles and BAT.
Subclinical effects of botulinum toxin A and microwave thermolysis for axillary hyperhidrosis: A descriptive study with line‐field confocal optical coherence tomography and histology
Authors: Grove Gabriela Lladó , Jacobsen Kevin , Maartensson Nina Loeth , Haedersdal Merete
Published: June 2024

Botulinum toxin A (BTX) and microwave thermolysis (MWT) are standard axillary hyperhidrosis treatments, but comparison of their subclinical effects is lacking. Line‐field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC‐OCT) is a promising non‐invasive imaging tool for visualizing tissue‐interactions. This study aimed to describe subclinical effects of BTX and MWT for axillary hyperhidrosis with LC‐OCT‐imaging compared to histology. This study derived from an intra‐individual, randomized, controlled trial, treating axillary hyperhidrosis with BTX versus MWT. Subclinical effects based on LC‐OCT images from baseline and 6‐month follow‐up (n = 8 patients) were evaluated and compared to corresponding histological samples. At baseline, LC‐OCT visualized eccrine pores at the skin surface and ducts in the upper dermis (500 μm), but not deeper‐lying sweat glands. Histology identified entire sweat glands. Six months post‐treatment, LC‐OCT revealed no detectable morphology changes in any BTX‐treated axillae (100%), while recognizing obstructed eccrine pores and atrophy of eccrine ducts in most MWT‐treated axillae (75%). Histology corroborated LC‐OCT findings, while also showing substantial changes to entire sweat glands. LC‐OCT enabled visualization of subclinical alterations of superficial eccrine ducts after MWT and unchanged morphology after BTX. LC‐OCT is a promising tool for non‐invasive assessment of treatment‐specific tissue‐interactions that can be complementary to histology.
Critical consciousness and anti‐racist action as rooted in family processes
Authors: Mejia Yesenia , Christophe N. Keita , Lobo Frances M. , Desmarais Ariane , Stein Gabriela L.
Published: June 2024

Racially ethnically marginalized communities in the United States are exposed to structural and interpersonal forms of racism that have harmful effects on their health, wealth, education, and employment (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Racism and Health. https://www.cdc.gov/minorityhealth/racism‐disparities/index.html, 2021). Although a plethora of research exists outlining these harmful effects, research examining how youth from diverse backgrounds effectively combat racism is lacking. Emerging research demonstrates that families may play a key role in the development of critical consciousness and participation in anti‐racist actions (Bañales et al., Journal of Social Issues, 2021, 77, 964; Blanco Martinez et al., American Journal of Community Psychology, 2022, 70, 278; Lozada et al., Journal of Black Psychology, 2017, 43, 493). Yet, many key family processes have not been examined in relation to youth development of anti‐racist practices. The current study included a sample of 327 racially ethnically diverse emerging adults (Mage = 18.80, SD = 1.28, range = 18–25), and explored the association between ethnic–racial socialization (cultural socialization, preparation for bias) and youth critical consciousness (reflection, motivation, action) and anti‐racist (interpersonal, communal, political change) actions, and how familism values impact these associations. Results found that ethnic–racial socialization was positively associated with all aspects of critical consciousness and anti‐racist actions. Results also found that familism significantly interacted with ethnic–racial socialization to predict some aspects of critical consciousness and anti‐racist actions, but not others. Implications of the findings and future research directions are discussed.
Low‐temperature sintering performance study of CCTO–Mn–Co series black Al2O3 ceramics by the one‐step method
Authors: Zhao He , Wang Sen , Liu Gaobin , Wang Biao , Zhao Shuang , Yuan Qi , Song Kuoming
Published: June 2024

To confer light‐blocking properties upon the Al2O3 encapsulation material, this study employed a one‐step method using α‐Al2O3 as the main raw material to synthesize CaCu3Ti4O12(CCTO)–MnO2–Co2O3 series black Al2O3 ceramics. The research investigated their coloring effect, sintering behavior, dielectric, and mechanical properties. The results indicate that the CCTO–MnO2–Co2O3 series colorants successfully dyed the Al2O3 ceramics black, while their introduction resulted in the formation of various spinel‐type compounds and facilitated the sintering of Al2O3 ceramics. The sintering mechanism and performance effects of black Al2O3 ceramics were thoroughly investigated, revealing that with an increase in the colorant content, all properties of the samples improved. When the colorant content reached 15.0 wt.%, the coloring effect reached its optimum, with a relative density of 96.7%, a dielectric constant of 12.5, a dielectric loss of .0081, a flexural strength of 314.4 MPa, and a Vickers hardness of 1254.5 Hv.
Intersectional and Decolonial Perspectives on an Incorporeal Materialism: Towards an Elemental Philosophy of Art Education
Authors: Rousell David , Hickey‐Moody Anna , Aleksic Jelena
Published: June 2024

Considering art and its educative potentials as a living experiment with the body's elemental constitution and modes of organisation, this article engages water, earth, air, and fire as milieus through which a body learns to sense, move, and act in the world differently. This leads to a series of propositions for an elemental philosophy of arts education, which recognises the intersectional and decolonial potentials of bodies, and strives to amplify and proliferate these potentials through creative pedagogic practices. If, as Elizabeth Grosz (2017) proposes, “the chain of evolutionary emergence is unbroken not only materially but also conceptually” (p. 250), then arts education offers an expression of the body's incorporeal and material potentials as they change and evolve through time. Further to this position, we argue that arts education has the potential to radically reframe relationships with water, earth, air, and fire in ways that resist their co‐option as tools of colonialism and intersecting categories of oppression.
Association of cardiovascular events with central systolic blood pressure: A systemic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Kaiyin , Gao Lan , Jiang Yimeng , Jia Jia , Li Jianping , Fan Fangfang , Zhang Yan , Huo Yong
Published: June 2024

Central blood pressure confers cardiovascular risk prediction ability, but whether the association between central systolic blood pressure (cSBP) and cardiovascular endpoints is independent of peripheral systolic blood pressure (pSBP) remains controversial. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to investigate the associations between cSBP and cardiovascular endpoints in models including and excluding pSBP, respectively. Observational studies assessing the risk of composite cardiovascular endpoints with baseline cSBP were searched in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to May 31, 2022. Risk of bias was assessed by the Newcastle‐Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale, and random‐effects models were used to pool estimates. Finally, 48 200 participants from 19 studies with a mean age of 59.0 ± 6.9 years were included. Per 10 mmHg increase of cSBP was associated with higher risk of composite cardiovascular outcomes (risk ratio [RR]: 1.14 [95%CI 1.08–1.19]) and cardiovascular death (RR: 1.18 [95%CI 1.08–1.30]), and the associations still existed after adjusting for pSBP (RR: 1.13 [95%CI 1.05–1.21] for composite cardiovascular endpoints; RR: 1.25 [95%CI 1.09–1.43] for cardiovascular death). In pSBP‐unadjusted studies, increased cSBP was also associated with higher risk of all‐cause mortality and stroke, but not in the pSBP‐adjusted studies. Both cSBP and pSBP were similarly significantly associated with composite cardiovascular endpoints in models containing them separately and simultaneously. cSBP was significantly associated with cardiovascular events, independently of pSBP. Central or peripheral SBP could supplement cardiovascular risk assessment besides each other.
Photoaging and cosmeceutical solutions in sun‐overexposed countries: The experience of Australia and Brazil
Authors: Goodman Greg J. , Bagatin Edileia
Published: June 2024

Skin aging is the result of physiological changes determined by genetically driven processes and intrinsic factors, and exacerbated by a combination of multiple environmental factors, the main one being sun exposure. The effects of photoaging are particularly apparent on the face, where the appearance of aging signs can have a significant impact on the emotions conveyed and well‐being. Photoprotection and facial skin care for managing photoaging signs are thus of particular importance for both physical and mental health. Countries, like Australia and Brazil, where the level of sun exposure is high and the populations have predominantly outdoor lifestyles, are particularly aware of the harms of photoaging and have implemented several measures to help reduce the risk of skin cancer in their populations. However, sun‐seeking behaviours are difficult to change, and it takes time before interventions provide perceptible results. Australia still has some of the highest skin cancer incidence and mortality rates in the world. Solutions that target individuals can also be used for minimizing the clinical signs of facial aging and for improving skin quality, with the ultimate aim being not only to improve the appearance of the skin but also to mitigate the occurrence of pre‐malignant and malignant lesions. This review summarizes the features of facial skin photoaging in photo‐exposed populations, based on evidence gained from studies of Australian individuals, and discusses the various available solutions for skin photoaging, in particular those that are most popular in Brazil, which is a country with many years of experience in managing photoaged skin.
Combined multilevelanti‐agingstrategies and practical applications of dermocosmetics in aesthetic procedures
Authors: Park Kui Young , López Gehrke Ingrid
Published: June 2024

Management of the signs of facial aging and other cosmetic skin problems have greatly evolved in the past years. People are also seeking to improve their well‐being and global skin appearance, and when they consider using cosmetic procedures, they expect natural and long‐lasting aesthetic results. Combined dermocosmetic approaches that address the signs of facial aging at all levels are increasingly being used by dermatologists to meet patient expectations while ensuring their safety. Minimally invasive and reversible procedures that can be performed in only one session are popular approaches for skin restructuring and volumizing as they are flexible, rapid and less burdensome for patients. These interventions can achieve even better outcomes when they are combined with cosmeceuticals as pre‐ or post‐procedural adjuvants to prepare the skin, accelerate recovery and sustain results. The use of topical dermocosmetics is also recommended as part of the daily skin care routine to improve skin quality and help maintain skin barrier function. This review thus outlines the most commonly used combined multilevel anti‐aging strategies, which start by addressing the deepest skin layers and then the more superficial signs of skin aging. Examples of multi‐active cosmeceuticals and skin delivery enhancing systems are also presented, together with examples of the use of dermocosmetics as supportive care for aesthetic procedures, to provide insights into current applications of dermocosmetic products.
Meta‐analysis to predict the effects of probiotics on meat quality of broiler
Authors: Yibar Artun , Uzabaci Ender
Published: June 2024

The demand for chicken meat has surged globally due to its status as a primary protein source in human diets. However, ensuring high‐quality meat products has become an increasingly important subject to consumers. In this study, 21 articles from PubMed and Web of Science databases published between 2005 and 2023 were examined to assess the influence of probiotic supplementation on broiler meat quality. The meta‐analysis revealed significant findings across various meat quality parameters. Specifically, probiotics were found to significantly affect meat colour parameters, including redness, yellowness, and lightness, in both breast and thigh meat samples. Moreover, significant differences were observed in parameters such as water‐holding capacity (p < 0.001), cook loss (p = 0.047), and shear force (p = 0.025) between control and probiotic groups. However, it's essential to note the considerable heterogeneity among the studies, emphasising the need for a cautious interpretation of the results. Despite this variability, the study underscores the potential of probiotics to positively influence broiler meat quality, highlighting avenues for further research and standardisation in poultry production practices. These findings also contribute to a better understanding of probiotics’ role in improving meat quality and meeting consumer preferences for nutritious and high‐quality poultry products.
Detection times of clodronic acid in horses with orthopedic disease
Authors: Seguí Pedrosa Beatriz , Dujardin Chris , Moses Ben , Thompson Caryn , Sarasola Patxi , Gattacceca Florence , Loup Benoit , Garcia Patrice , Popot Marie‐Agnès , Bailly‐Chouriberry Ludovic
Published: June 2024

Clodronic acid is designated as a controlled medication for competition horses by the International Federation for Equestrian Sports and, according to the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities, clodronic acid is not to be administered to racehorses younger than 3.5 years or within 30 days prior to a race. In this study, 35 horses involved in competition were treated with a single dose of 1.53 mg clodronic acid/kg bodyweight intramuscularly. Plasma samples were obtained before treatment and 10, 20, 30, and 40 days post‐administration. Clodronic acid concentrations were measured using a validated method, and the data were fitted using a nonlinear mixed effects model. The estimated depletion half‐life of clodronic acid was 10.6 days (inter‐individual variability: 17.9%). Age, body weight, sex, disease severity, dose, training days, training, and competition did not significantly impact the depletion half‐life. The percentage of horses predicted via simulation to have clodronic acid concentrations below the assay's limit of quantification of 1.0 ng/mL was 93.9% at day 30 and 99.4% at Day 40. This study provides rationale to the equestrian federations and horse racing authorities to reliably establish a detection time for clodronic acid, assisting equine veterinarians in recommending a competition withdrawal time for the horses under their care.
Impact of Suaahara, an at‐scale multisectoral nutrition programme, on health workers' maternal and child health, and nutrition knowledge and skills in Nepal
Authors: Thapa Deependra K. , Frongillo Edward A. , Suresh Shalini , Adhikari Ramesh P. , Pun Bhim , Shakya Karuna L. , Mandal Raj , Kole Subir K. , Cunningham Kenda
Published: June 2024

Suaahara, an at‐scale multisectoral nutrition programme in Nepal, aimed to advance knowledge and skills of frontline health workers to improve the quality of nutrition and health services at health facility and community levels. This study assessed the impact of Suaahara interventions on knowledge and skills of health facility workers and Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs). The study used a quasi‐experimental design in which four Suaahara intervention districts were compared with pair‐matched comparison districts. One health facility worker and three FCHVs from each survey cluster were included. Baseline survey consisted of 93 health facility workers (2015) and 118 FCHVs (2012), and endline survey (2022) consisted of 40 health facility workers and 120 FCHVs. Difference‐in‐differences regression models employing intent‐to‐treat analysis, accounting for clustering at the district level, assessed the impact of intervention. The intervention, relative to comparison, had no effect on health facility workers’ knowledge. There was a positive effect, however, on FCHVs’ knowledge in intervention relative to comparison areas on exclusive breastfeeding, timing of introduction of complementary feeding, sick child feeding and growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) for children under 2 years. Health facility workers and FCHVs in intervention versus comparison districts had higher endline scores for skills related to measuring the weight of children and pregnant women, measuring the height/length of children, conducting GMP for children under 2 years and identifying malnourished children. Suaahara interventions improved the capacity of health workers, particularly nutrition‐related knowledge among FCHVs and GMP‐related skills of both health facility workers and FCHVs.
Multicenter Candida auris outbreak caused by azole‐susceptible clade IV in Pernambuco, Brazil
Authors: Spruijtenburg Bram , Nobrega de Almeida Júnior João , Ribeiro Felipe de Camargo , Kemmerich Karoline Kristina , Baeta Karla , Meijer Eelco F. J. , de Groot Theun , Meis Jacques F. , Colombo Arnaldo Lopes ,   Brazilian Candida auris collaborative network
Published: June 2024

Background

Candida auris is an emerging multidrug‐resistant yeast, frequently causing outbreaks in health care facilities. The pathogen persistently colonises human skin and inanimate surfaces such as catheters, aiding to its spread. Moreover, colonisation is a risk factor to develop invasive infection.

Objectives

We investigated 61 C. auris strains isolated from non‐sterile human body sites (n = 53) and the hospital environment (n = 8), originating from four different centres in a single Brazilian state.

Materials and Methods

Antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST) against common antifungals was performed, and resistance‐associated genes were evaluated. Genetic relatedness was investigated with short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping and validated with whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis.

Results

Antifungal susceptibility testing demonstrated that all isolates were susceptible to azoles, echinocandins and amphotericin B. No mutations were detected in ERG11 and FKS1 genes. With STR typing, isolates were allocated to clade IV and appeared closely related. This was confirmed by WGS SNP analysis of 6 isolates, which demonstrated a maximal difference of only 41 SNPs between these strains. Furthermore, the Brazilian isolates formed a distinct autochthonous branch within clade IV, excluding recent introductions from outside the country. A molecular clock analysis of clade IV isolates from various countries suggests that early in the previous century there was a unique event causing environmental spread of a C. auris ancestor throughout the Latin‐American continent, followed by human introduction during the last decades.

Conclusion

We report the emergence of C. auris patient colonisation in multiple centres by fluconazole‐susceptible clade IV close‐related strains in Pernambuco State, Brazil.
A synchronized, large‐scale field experiment using Arabidopsis thaliana reveals the significance of the UV‐B photoreceptor UVR8 under natural conditions
Authors: Neugart Susanne , Steininger Viktoria , Fernandes Catarina , Martínez‐Abaigar Javier , Núñez‐Olivera Encarnación , Schreiner Monika , Strid Åke , Viczián András , Albert Andreas , Badenes‐Pérez Francisco R. , Castagna Antonella , Dáder Beatriz , Fereres Alberto , Gaberscik Alenka , Gulyás Ágnes , Gwynn‐Jones Dylan , Nagy Ferenc , Jones Alan , Julkunen‐Tiitto Riitta , Konstantinova Nataliia , Lakkala Kaisa , Llorens Laura , Martínez‐Lüscher Johann , Nybakken Line , Olsen Jorunn , Pascual Inmaculada , Ranieri Annamaria , Regier Nicole , Robson Matthew , Rosenqvist Eva , Santin Marco , Turunen Minna , Vandenbussche Filip , Verdaguer Dolors , Winkler Barbro , Witzel Katja , Grifoni Daniele , Zipoli Gaetano , Hideg Éva , Jansen Marcel A. K. , Hauser Marie‐Theres
Published: June 2024

This study determines the functional role of the plant ultraviolet‐B radiation (UV‐B) photoreceptor, UV RESISTANCE LOCUS 8 (UVR8) under natural conditions using a large‐scale ‘synchronized‐genetic‐perturbation‐field‐experiment’. Laboratory experiments have demonstrated a role for UVR8 in UV‐B responses but do not reflect the complexity of outdoor conditions where ‘genotype × environment’ interactions can mask laboratory‐observed responses. Arabidopsis thaliana knockout mutant, uvr8‐7, and the corresponding Wassilewskija wild type, were sown outdoors on the same date at 21 locations across Europe, ranging from 39°N to 67°N latitude. Growth and climatic data were monitored until bolting. At the onset of bolting, rosette size, dry weight, and phenolics and glucosinolates were quantified. The uvr8‐7 mutant developed a larger rosette and contained less kaempferol glycosides, quercetin glycosides and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives than the wild type across all locations, demonstrating a role for UVR8 under field conditions. UV effects on rosette size and kaempferol glycoside content were UVR8 dependent, but independent of latitude. In contrast, differences between wild type and uvr8‐7 in total quercetin glycosides, and the quercetin‐to‐kaempferol ratio decreased with increasing latitude, that is, a more variable UV response. Thus, the large‐scale synchronized approach applied demonstrates a location‐dependent functional role of UVR8 under natural conditions.
The physiological and biochemical role of silicon in enhancing the resistance of maize to root‐lesion nematode
Authors: Qi Xiuxiu , Xue Xia , Su Guoquan , Han Yanlai , Wang Yi , Li Yu , Jiang Ying
Published: June 2024

Silicon (Si) plays an important role in enhancing the tolerance of plants to biotic and abiotic stress in soil ecosystems. Root‐lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus scribneri; RLNs) cause root damage and diseases that result in quality deterioration and economic loss. This study investigated the effects of Si application on maize plants and its interaction with RLN infection. We set up different treatments to evaluate the role of silicon application in maize root growth and RLN resistance. This study conducted analysis by combining measurements of the metabolism and root activity of maize under different conditions. The results suggested that Si application (0.5 g/kg) significantly promoted fresh shoot weight, plant height, SPAD value (chlorophyll content), and root activity of maize, regardless of RLN inoculation. The highest SPAD value was observed in the Si treatment, which was significantly higher than in the control (CK) and RLN (N) treatments. Analysis of enzyme activity revealed that nematode inoculation reduced catalase (CAT) activity and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, while Si application increased CAT activity and decreased MDA concentration. In the SiN treatment, there was increased CAT activity at 0, 12, 48, 72 and 96 h compared with the N treatment. In parallel, nematode inoculation increased phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities, while SiN treatment further enhanced their activities. These findings indicate that Si application enhances maize resistance to nematode infection and improves plant growth and antioxidant defence mechanisms.