bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bromeliad populations perform distinct ecological strategies across a tropical elevation gradient
Authors: Chaves Cleber J. N. , Cacossi Tami C. , Matos Taynara S. , Bento João P. S. P. , Gonçalves Lucas N. , Silva Simone F. , da Silva‐Ferreira Marcus V. , Barbin Douglas F. , Mayer Juliana L. S. , Sussulini Alessandra , Ribeiro Rafael V. , Palma‐Silva Clarisse
Published: February 2024

The effect of environmental gradients on the remarkable diversity of mountain‐associated plants and on the species' abilities to cope with climate change transcends species‐specific strategies. For instance, our understanding of the impact of thermal gradients on ecological divergences in populations of widely distributed species is limited, although it could provide important insights regarding species' response to climate change.

Here, we investigated whether populations of an endemic species broadly distributed across an elevation gradient employ unique or multiple divergent ecological strategies according to specific environmental conditions. We hypothesised that populations employ distinct strategies, producing a tolerance‐avoidance trade‐off related to the thermal conditions they experience across elevations.

We conducted our research with 125 individuals of Pitcairnia flammea (Bromeliaceae) sampled from various elevations spanning from sea level to ~2200 m and cultivated under the same conditions. To assess specific ecological strategies of P. flammea populations across elevations, we examined leaf temperature, heat and cold tolerances, as well as other structural/morphological, optical, physiological and biochemical leaf traits.

We majorly observed that water‐saving traits diminish as elevation increases while membrane fluidity, majorly associated with unsaturated and very‐long‐chain lipids, enhances. Low‐elevation individuals of P. flammea invest in water storage tissues, which likely prevent excessive water loss through the intense transpiration rates under warming periods. Conversely, high‐elevation plants exhibit increased membrane fluidity, a possible response to the stiffening induced by low temperature.

Our results revealed a tolerance‐avoidance trade‐off related to thermal strategies of populations distributed across an elevation gradient. Low‐elevation plants avoid excessive leaf temperature by investing in water‐saving traits to maintain transpiration rates. High‐elevation individuals, in turn, tend to invest in membrane properties to tolerate thermal variations, particularly cold events.

Our findings challenge the conventional notion that plants' vulnerability to warming depends on species‐specific thermal tolerance by showing diverse thermal strategies on populations across an elevation gradient.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
How to identify and quantify the members of the Bacillus genus?
Authors: Xu Xinming , Kovács Ákos T.
Published: February 2024

Members of the Bacillus genus are widely distributed throughout natural environments and have been studied for decades among others for their physiology, genetics, ecological functions, and applications. However, despite its prevalence in nature, the characterization and classification of Bacillus remain challenging due to its complex and ever‐evolving taxonomic framework. This review addresses the current state of the Bacillus taxonomic landscape and summarizes the critical points in the development of Bacillus phylogeny. With a clear view of Bacillus phylogeny as a foundation, we subsequently review the methodologies applied in identifying and quantifying Bacillus, while also discussing their respective advantages and disadvantages.
Antipsychotic agents in anxiety disorders: An umbrella review
Authors: Garakani Amir , Buono Frank D. , Salehi Mona , Funaro Melissa C. , Klimowicz Anna , Sharma Harshit , Faria Clara G. F. , Larkin Kaitlyn , Freire Rafael C.
Published: February 2024

Background

Although not approved for the treatment of anxiety disorders (except trifluoperazine) there is ongoing off‐label, unapproved use of first‐generation antipsychotics (FGAs) and second‐generation antipsychotics (SGAs) for anxiety disorders. There have been systematic reviews and meta‐analyses on the use of antipsychotics in anxiety disorders, most of which focused on SGAs.

Objective

The specific aims of this umbrella review are to: (1) Evaluate the evidence of efficacy of FGAs and SGAs in anxiety disorders as an adjunctive treatment to traditional antidepressant treatments and other nonantipsychotic medications; (2) Compare monotherapy with antipsychotics to first‐line treatments for anxiety disorders in terms of effectiveness, risks, and side effects. The review protocol is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021237436).

Methods

An initial search was undertaken to identify systematic reviews and meta‐analyses from inception until 2020, with an updated search completed August 2021 and January 2023. The searches were conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), APA PsycInfo (Ovid), CINAHL Complete (EBSCOhost), and the Cochrane Library through hand searches of references of included articles. Review quality was measured using the AMSTAR‐2 (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) scale.

Results

The original and updated searches yielded 1796 and 3744 articles respectively, of which 45 were eligible. After final review, 25 systematic reviews and meta‐analyses were included in the analysis. Most of the systematic reviews and meta‐analyses were deemed low‐quality through AMSTAR‐2 with only one review being deemed high‐quality. In evaluating the monotherapies with antipsychotics compared with first‐line treatments for anxiety disorder there was insufficient evidence due to flawed study designs (such as problems with randomization) and small sample sizes within studies. There was limited evidence suggesting efficacy of antipsychotic agents in anxiety disorders other than quetiapine in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Conclusions

This umbrella review indicates a lack of high‐quality studies of antipsychotics in anxiety disorders outside of the use of quetiapine in GAD. Although potentially effective for anxiety disorders, FGAs and SGAs may have risks and side effects that outweigh their efficacy, although there were limited data. Further long‐term and larger‐scale studies of antipsychotics in anxiety disorders are needed.
Demographic and clinical profile of 1106 adult soft tissue sarcoma patients: A single institutional prospective database experience from India
Authors: Sharma Jyoti , Deo Surya V. S , Kumar Sunil , Bhoriwal Sandeep , Kar Madhabananda , Barwad Adarsh W , Thulkar Sanjay , Bakhshi Sameer , Sharma D. N.
Published: February 2024

Background

Adult soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare and diverse. Current management is based on limited literature from the West. Therefore, data from different geographical regions is required, including the low‐middle‐income countries. This is our experience managing adult sarcomas in the tertiary cancer center of North India.

Materials and methods

This is a retrospective analysis of the structured sarcoma database of patients treated in the surgical oncology department between 1992 and 2020. The descriptive analysis includes demography, site distribution, diagnosis, histopathology variations, prior surgical interventions, and stage.

Results

A total of 1106 soft tissue sarcoma patients were treated in three decades. Age distribution was 13%, 43%, 31%, and 11% in <20, 21–40, and 41–60 and >60 years, respectively. The male‐to‐female ratio was 1.73. The anatomical distribution was 17%, 42%, 23%, 7%, 7%, and 3% in upper extremity, lower extremity, trunk, retroperitoneum, head and neck, and viscera, respectively. Overall, 49% of patients had undergone prior suboptimal surgeries at community hospitals. Common histology subtypes were synovial sarcoma (18%), undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) (13%), dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (12%), and liposarcoma (9%). A pathological discordance of 13% was identified between the initial and the final histologies. Overall, 61% of tumors were high‐grade. Memorial Sloan Kettering Stages II and III were present in 33% and 35% of patients, respectively.

Conclusions

This is one of the largest single institutional experiences of STS from the Asian population. Mostly young adults were affected with male preponderance. The lower extremity and trunk were common subsites. Frequent histologies were synovial sarcoma and UPS. A high rate of suboptimal surgical intervention at the community level and pathological discordance was noted. This study highlights the need to establish prospective structured databases for capturing quality information related to rare malignancies and providing insights for future research.
Oncological and reproductive outcomes of endometrial atypical hyperplasia and endometrial cancer patients undergoing conservative therapy with hysteroscopic resection: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhao Shuangshuang , Zhang Jingying , Yan Ye , Tian Lina , Chen Lingli , Zheng Xingyu , Sun Yiqing , Tian Wenyan , Xue Fengxia , Wang Yingmei
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Our objective was to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies evaluating the oncological and reproductive outcomes of patients with endometrial atypical hyperplasia (AH) and endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC) undergoing conservative therapy with hysteroscopic resection (HR).

Material and methods

This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. The study strictly followed the methodological framework proposed by the Cochrane Handbook and was retrospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023469986). Searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, from inception to October 10, 2023. A checklist based on items of the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and the Methodological Index for Non‐randomized Studies was used for quality assessment. The primary end points for this meta‐analysis were complete response (CR), pregnancy, and live birth rates following HR‐based therapy in patients with EEC or AH. The secondary end point was the recurrence rate (RR).

Results

Twenty‐one articles involving 407 patients with clinical stage IA, low or intermediate grade, EEC, and 444 patients with AH managed with HR‐based conservative treatment were included for this systematic review. CR to HR‐based conservative therapy was achieved in 88.6% of patients with EEC and 97.0% of patients with AH. Of these, 30.6% and 24.2%, respectively, had live births. The overall pooled disease RR was 18.3% and 10.8% in patients with EEC and AH, respectively. Further subset analyses revealed that EEC patients with body mass index (BMI) ≤28 kg/m2 had higher CR rates as well as higher chances of pregnancy and live birth (91.6% CR, 32.9% pregnancy, 31.1% live birth) compared with patients with BMI >28 kg/m2 (86.4% CR, 28.4% pregnancy, 23.0% live birth). The HR followed by oral progestogen subgroup had higher CR rates and higher chances of pregnancy and live birth (91.8% CR, 36.3% pregnancy, 28.2% live birth) than the HR followed by the levonorgestrel intrauterine system subgroup (82.5% CR, 25.3% pregnancy, 16.3% live birth).

Conclusions

Hysteroscopic resection followed by progestins appears to be a promising choice for fertility‐sparing treatment in young patients with AH and EEC, with effective and safe responses. The live birth rate remains to be improved by providing medical guidance and encouragement.
Development and validation of the Assessment Inventory on relationship Risks and Resources (AIRR)
Authors: Leth‐Nissen Astrid B. , Fentz Hanne N. , Wellnitz Kaare B. , Trillingsgaard Tea L.
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate the psychometric structure of the Assessment Inventory on relationship Risks and Resources (AIRR), a multidimensional, yet brief, package of existing single‐domain measures (relationship satisfaction, intimacy, trust, commitment, conflict strategies, reconciliation, coparenting, sexual satisfaction, and responsive attention).

Background

In evidence‐based approaches to couple interventions, a conceptualization of a couple's key issues and strengths is often an important clinical task.

Method

A representative sample of 1,371 individuals, 18–69 years of age and cohabiting with a partner, completed the AIRR online. Initially, we randomly split the data in two halves. On the first split‐half of data, we reduced the number of items, explored the psychometrics, and tested the internal validity of each scale separately as well as combined, using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. On the second half, we tested replicability of initial results.

Results

After item reduction, each scale in the AIRR showed internal reliabilities (Cronbach's alphas) ranging from .72 to .94. Results confirmed a seven‐factor structure of the 52‐item package with the coparenting scale omitted.

Conclusion and implications

Findings supported the AIRR as a reliable inventory that may effectively assist clinicians in the assessment of relationship risks and resources.
Relationship intimacy in older couples when one partner has mild cognitive impairment: A qualitative study
Authors: Barak Tal , Levkovich Inbar , Ayalon Liat
Published: February 2024

Objective

In this research, we examine perceptions of couple relationships and intimacy among older couples when one partner is diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), based on ambiguous loss theory.

Background

Many studies have examined couples with one partner affected by dementia, yet few have explored intimacy when the affected partner is diagnosed with MCI.

Method

A qualitative‐phenomenological approach in which data were collected through in‐depth, semistructured, face‐to‐face interviews with 16 men and women aged 67–90.

Results

The nondiagnosed partners live in the present while acknowledging the changes caused by aging and the diagnosis. In contrast, the diagnosed partners tend to live in the past. In line with ambiguous loss theory, the nondiagnosed partners reported that their diagnosed spouses are physically present yet many aspects of their personalities are partially absent.

Conclusion

The findings reveal two patterns of coping with the consequences of loss. Understanding these relationships offers insights into how to care for individuals with MCI.

Implications

The results highlight that individuals with MCI and their partners do not invariably constitute a homogenous group, necessitating a critical appraisal of partners' roles and expectations before initiating therapeutic interventions.
Assessment of rare bleeding disorders in adolescents with heavy menstrual bleeding
Authors: Sharma Ruchika , Johnson Victoria , Pan Amy , Sellers Austin , Betensky Marisol , Goldenberg Neil , Flood Veronica H.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

There are a significant number of patients with mucocutaneous bleeding, specifically heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), who do not have a diagnosed bleeding disorder. These patients receive nontargeted interventions and may have suboptimal treatments. Functional assays, particularly for fibrinolytic and rare platelet function defects, are not robust and not readily available.

Aim

We aimed to prospectively evaluate the prevalence of genetic defects associated with rare bleeding disorders and describe alterations of coagulation and fibrinolysis in a cohort of adolescents with HMB.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational cohort study of patients with HMB and unexplained bleeding. The study utilized a next generation sequencing panel and investigational global assays of coagulation and fibrinolysis. Additionally, specific functional assays were performed to help characterize novel variants that were identified.

Results

In 10 of the 17 patients (∼59%), genetic variants were identified on molecular testing. Thrombin generation by calibrated thromboelastography was not significantly altered in this patient population. The clot formation and lysis assay showed a trend towards increased fibrinolysis with rapid phase of decline in 23% of the patients. Further corresponding functional assays and study population are described.

Conclusion

Our study describes a unique correlative model in a homogenous cohort of patients with HMB and unexplained bleeding which may inform future diagnostic algorithms, genotype–phenotype correlations as well as aid in specific targeted treatment approaches. Larger future studies may inform risk stratification of patients and improve health related outcomes in patients with HMB.
Hydration properties of magnesium phosphate cement paste mixed with metakaolin and silica fume
Authors: Liu Runqing , Wang Wei , Yang Yuanquan
Published: February 2024

Magnesium phosphate cement (MPC) exhibits a faster setting time and higher early strength, making it suitable for crack repair. However, its application in civil engineering is hindered by its fast initial hydration rate and poor water resistance. To address these limitations, metakaolin (MK) and silica fume (SF) were utilized to enhance the properties of MPC. The effects of MK and SF on the setting time, compressive strength, water resistance, hydration process, and microstructure of MPC were investigated. The results demonstrate that both MK and SF significantly prolong the setting time of MPC and improve its water resistance. The main hydration products of MPC, after incorporating MK and SF, are k‐struvite (MgKPO4·6H2O) and unreacted MgO. The presence of MgSiO3 and AlPO4 also contributes to the enhancement of compressive strength and water resistance. The incorporation of MK and SF actively participates in the hydration reaction of the MPC system. Furthermore, MgSiO3 and AlPO4 intertwine with MKP, resulting in a denser internal structure of the cured MPC, thereby improving its water resistance.
Do hospitals attaining a public recognition for treating nurses fairly deliver better‐quality health care? Evidence from cross‐sectional analysis of California hospitals
Authors: Shen Hsiu‐Chu , Li Chien‐Ching , Yeh Shu‐Chuan Jennifer
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study explored whether hospitals that allocate greater resources to their nursing staff provide better healthcare services than those that invest less in their nursing personnel.

Design

Cross‐sectional logistic and tobit analyses.

Methods

We examined a sample of 314 California hospitals in 2017. We obtained a hospital's public recognition for treating nurses fairly between 2015 and 2017 from Nurse.org, the largest online community of nurses. We derived a hospital's healthcare quality in 2018 from the 2019–2020 Best Hospitals rankings released by U.S. News, a well‐known media company publishing independent healthcare assessments periodically.

Results

Our results showed that a nurse‐friendly workplace was a crucial determinant of its overall healthcare quality.

Conclusion and implications

Healthcare administrators keen to enhance the quality of healthcare services should consider creating nurse‐friendly workplaces. Furthermore, their evaluation of nurses' contributions to overall healthcare quality should not solely depend on the nurse‐assessed quality of care, but rather comprise not only broad aspects of patient outcomes in primary care but also patient experiences, care‐related factors and expert opinions.

Patient or public contribution

Our study helped address the overwhelmed healthcare system, whose long‐running shortage of nurses has been exacerbated by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Our work suggested that a hospital's investment in a nurse‐friendly workplace can enhance its acquisition, retention and devotion of the nursing staff. This, in turn, can have profound impacts on its overall healthcare quality.

What already is known

Existing empirical evidence on the relation between nurse‐friendly workplace and healthcare quality is limited and inconclusive.

What this paper adds

We documented evidence that the quality of healthcare services provided by hospitals varies with their treatment of nursing staff.

Implications for practice/policy

Our results provided insights into key policies that have the potential to improve healthcare quality.
Plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 serum levels in frontotemporal lobar degeneration
Authors: Angelucci Francesco , Veverova Katerina , Katonová Alžbeta , Vyhnalek Martin , Hort Jakub
Published: February 2024

Plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) impedes brain plasmin synthesis. Reduced plasmin activity facilitates cumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Since plasmin also regulates the synaptic activity, it is possible that altered PAI‐1 is present in other neurodegenerative disorders. We investigated whether PAI‐1 and its counter‐regulatory tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) are altered in serum of patients with dementia due to frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). Thirty five FTLD patients (21 in mild cognitive impairment stage (MCI) and 14 in dementia stage) and 10 cognitively healthy controls were recruited. Serum tPA and PAI‐1 protein levels were measured by anova. Correlation between biochemical and demographic data were explored by measuring Pearson correlation coefficient. Serum PAI‐1 levels were elevated in the FTLD dementia group as compared to FTLD MCI and controls. tPA serum levels and PAI‐1/tPA ratio did not significantly differ among groups. There was a negative correlation between PAI‐1 serum levels and disease severity measured by MMSE score. No correlations of tPA serum levels and PAI‐1/tPA ratio with MMSE were found. Increased PAI‐1 serum levels may serve as a marker of dementia in FTLD, suggesting that, besides Aβ pathway, the plasmin system may affect cognition through synaptic activity.
Effect of HCV eradication by DAAs on liver steatosis, carotid atherosclerosis, and associated metabolic comorbidities: A systematic review
Authors: Cespiati Annalisa , Coelho Rodrigues Inês , Santos Inês , Policarpo Sara , Carvalhana Sofia , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , Cortez‐Pinto Helena
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

The beneficial effect of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication by direct antiviral agents (DAAs) on liver fibrosis is well defined. Despite this, the impact of viral eradication in both hepatic and extra‐hepatic metabolic features is underreached. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the evidence on the impact of HCV eradication by DAAs on liver steatosis, carotid atherosclerosis, glucidic impairment, dyslipidaemia, and weight gain.

Methods

A systematic search of the existing literature (up to December 2022) identified 97 original studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria.

Results

Whereas total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) seem to increase after viral eradication, the cardiovascular damage expressed as carotid plaques and intima‐media thickness seems to improve. Otherwise, the effect on liver steatosis, glucidic homeostasis, and weight seems to be strictly dependent on the presence of baseline metabolic disorders.

Conclusion

Despite high heterogeneity and relatively short follow‐up of included studies, we can conclude that the presence of metabolic risk factors should be strictly evaluated due to their impact on liver steatosis, glucidic and lipid homeostasis, and on weight gain to better identify patients at risk of liver disease progression despite the virus eradication.
A narrative inquiry into non‐Indigenous medical educators and leaders participation in reconciliatory work
Authors: Burm Sarah , Dean Libby , Alcock Danielle , LaDonna Kori A. , Watling Christopher J. , Bishop Lisa
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Globally, medical schools are operationalising policies and programming to address Indigenous health inequities. Although progress has been made, challenges persist. In Canada, where this research is conducted, Indigenous representation within medical schools remains low, leaving a small number of Indigenous advocates leading unprecedented levels of equity‐related work, often with insufficient resources. The change needed within medical education cannot fall solely on the shoulders of Indigenous Peoples; non‐Indigenous Peoples must also be involved. This work aims to better understand the pathways of those engaged in this work, with careful consideration given to the facilitators and barriers to ongoing engagement.

Methods

Data collection and analysis were informed by narrative inquiry, a methodology that relies on storytelling to uncover nuance and prompt reflection. In this paper, we focus on interview data collected from Canadian non‐Indigenous medical educators and leaders (n = 10). Participants represented different career stages, (early to late career) and occupied a mix of clinical, administrative and education roles.

Results

Although each participant's entry into reconciliatory work was unique, we identified common drivers actuating their engagement. Oftentimes their participation was tied to administrative work or propelled by experiences within their roles that forced them to confront the systemic inequalities borne by Indigenous Peoples in both academic and healthcare settings. Some admitted to struggling with understanding their appropriate role in Indigenous reconciliation; their participation often proceeded without firm support.

Conclusion

Medical schools have an obligation to ensure their faculty, including non‐Indigenous Peoples, are equipped to fulfil social accountability mandates regarding Indigenous health. Our findings generate a better understanding of the tensions inherent in this equity work. We urge others to reflect on their role in Indigenous reconciliation, or else medical schools risk generating a false sense of individual and institutional progress.
Functional connectivity characteristics of the brain network involved in prickle perception of single fiber stimulation
Authors: Wang Qicai , Mei Yonghao , Tao Yuan , Ao Jiayu , Zhang Zhongwei , Yuan Jie , Hong Xinghua , Zeng Fangmeng , Jin Zimin
Published: February 2024

Background

The complex network connections, information transmission and organization play key roles in brain cognition on sensory stimulation. Previous studies showed that several brain regions of somatosensory, motor, emotional, cognitive, etc. are linked to fabric‐evoked prickle. But the functional connectivity characteristics of the brain network involved in prickle perception is still unclear.

Materials and Methods

In the present study, resting state fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) with functional connectivity analysis was adopted to build the initial brain functional network, and task fMRI with psychophysiological interaction analysis was employed to investigate modulation features of prickling task to functional connections in the brain network.

Results

The results showed that, in resting state, six groups or sub‐networks can be identified in the prickle network, and when the subjects performed the prickling task, functional connectivity strength between some seed regions (e.g., somatosensory regions and precuneus, emotional regions and the prefrontal cortex, etc.) in the network increased.

Conclusion

Combining resting‐state fMRI with task fMRI is a feasible and promising method to study functional connectivity characteristics of the brain network involved in prickle perception. It is inferred that the “itch” ingredient of prickle sensation was transmitted from somatosensory cortices to precuneus, and emotional attribute (e.g., pain) from somatosensory cortices to the prefrontal cortex and at last to emotional regions.
Farmers' perception of soil health: The use of quality data and its implication for farm management
Authors: Falcão Raquel N. R. , Vrana Michal , Hudek Csilla , Pittarello Marco , Zavattaro Laura , Moretti Barbara , Strauss Peter , Liebhard Gunter , Li Yangyang , Zhang Xiaoping , Bauer Miroslav , Dostál Tomáš , Gomez José A. , Benavente‐Ferraces Iria , García‐Gil Juan C. , Plaza César , Guzmán Gema , Lopez Maria Llanos , Pirkó Bela , Bakacsi Zsofia , Nokolov Dimitre , Krása Josef
Published: February 2024

Preventing and reversing soil degradation is essential to maintaining the ecosystem services provided by soils and guaranteeing food security. In addition to the scientific community, it is critical to engage multiple stakeholders to assess the degree of soil degradation and mitigation strategies' impact and meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, European Union's Common Agricultural Policy, and other national and international goals. A semi‐structured questionnaire was distributed across countries participating in the EU Horizon‐2020 “Transforming Unsustainable management of soils in key agricultural systems in E.U. and China. Developing an integrated platform of alternatives to reverse soil degradation (TUdi).” Using farmers' associations and educational institutions as an intermediate to distribute the questionnaires was an effective strategy for gathering a high number of responses. Results from 456 responses to the questionnaire showed that farm country, size, type of agriculture, and educational level of farm managers were significantly associated with the farmers' perception of soil degradation issues. Farm size and type of agriculture were also correlated with applying a nutrient management plan. The implications of the results for soil conservation measures are discussed. Additionally, we highlight the potential of projects such as TUdi for creating collaboration networks to drive widespread adoption by farmers of technologies to reverse the degradation of agricultural soils.
Stability of a Multi-Span Current-Carrying Beam Resting on Periodic Supports and Exposed to an External Magnetic Field
Authors: Avetisyan A. , Ghazaryan K. , Marzocca P.
Published: February 2024

The stability of a current-carrying beam in an external magnetic field is studied in this paper. The beam rests on periodic supports and is modeled as an Euler–Bernoulli elastic beam. Based on the linearized stability equation and propagator transfer matrix approach for a multi-span finite-length beam, the stability equation and solutions of the several boundary value problems are obtained. While the Floquet–Bloch theory is widely used in the dynamic problem of phononic and photonic structure conditions, its application to the solution of infinite length beam static stability problem is novel. The stability values of the periodic infinite beam model are in very good agreement with one of the finite-length multi-span beams.
A 3D Computational Model of Nanosecond Pulsed Laser Texturing of Metals for Designing Engineered Surfaces
Authors: Narayanan Vishnu , Singh Ramesh , Marla Deepak
Published: February 2024

Laser surface texturing uses a pulsed laser that is scanned on the surface, wherein each pulse creates a micro-crater through material ablation. A variety of textures can be generated depending on the laser parameters and the overlap of the laser spots. This work presents a computational model that can predict the topography of a textured surface produced using a nanosecond pulsed laser. The model involves a multi-physics approach that considers laser ablation with plasma effects and the melt pool’s fluid dynamics to obtain the crater profile for a single pulse. The 3D surface profile created from the multi-physics model is mathematically superimposed to mimic the spatial overlapping of multiple pulses. The model predicts surface topography when a laser is scanned along a linear track with successive overlapping tracks. The experiments have confirmed that the proposed model has an accuracy greater than 90% in predicting surface roughness (Sa), as well as volume parameters such as core void volume (Vvc) and valley void volume (Vvv). It was observed that the variation of these surface characteristics is highly non-linear with the process parameters. Furthermore, the model is used to design engineered surfaces to modify friction coefficient, adhesion, and leakage probability. It is demonstrated that the surface parameters for functional requirements can be modified significantly just by varying the overlap of the laser spots in different directions. The proposed model can be used to create textured surfaces for various applications through an appropriate choice of laser parameters and scanning parameters.
Homogeneous crystallization and buried interface passivation for perovskite tandem solar modules
Authors: Gao Han , Xiao Ke , Lin Renxing , Zhao Siyang , Wang Wenliang , Dayneko Sergey , Duan Chenyang , Ji Chenglong , Sun Hongfei , Bui Anh Dinh , Liu Chenshuaiyu , Wen Jin , Kong Wenchi , Luo Haowen , Zheng Xuntian , Liu Zhou , Nguyen Hieu , Xie Jin , Li Ludong , Saidaminov Makhsud I. , Tan Hairen
Published: February 2024

Scalable fabrication of all-perovskite tandem solar cells is challenging because the narrow-bandgap subcells made of mixed lead-tin (Pb-Sn) perovskite films suffer from nonuniform crystallization and inferior buried perovskite interfaces. We used a dopant from Good’s list of biochemical buffers, aminoacetamide hydrochloride, to homogenize perovskite crystallization and used it to extend the processing window for blade-coating Pb-Sn perovskite films and to selectively passivate defects at the buried perovskite interface. The resulting all-perovskite tandem solar module exhibited a certified power conversion efficiency of 24.5% with an aperture area of 20.25 square centimeters.
Chronic fatigue study shows syndrome’s complexity
Authors: Couzin-Frankel Jennifer
Published: February 2024

Brain and immune differences found in small patient group
Genome assembly of antimicrobial-resistant
Escherichia coli
HMVC1 isolated from healthy Mogosane village cattle, South Africa
Authors: Makhetha Lerato Lisbeth Njaki , Mokolopi Baitsholetsi Gloria , Oguttu James Wabwire , Mbajiorgu Christian Anayochukwu , Makete Goitsemang , Mamphogoro Tshifhiwa Paris
Published: February 2024

Here, we present the genome assembly of
E. coli
strain HMVC1 isolated from rectal fecal samples of healthy cattle in South Africa. The genome size of HMVC1 consisted of 5,043,843 bp, with G + C content of 50.5%. The strain harbors
mar
A,
mdt
M,
acr
F,
acr
D, and other antimicrobial resistance genes.
Rare vertebral pathological fracture in primary amyloidosis
Authors: Norisyam Yusoff , Zairul Anuar Kamarul Bahrin , Ohn Khin Maung , Moharzudi Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Spinal involvement in primary amyloidosis is an exceedingly rare condition, presenting with typical pathological fracture symptoms that are often indistinguishable from other pathologies such as bone metastasis, metabolic disorders and infections. Histopathological studies for tissue diagnosis are the cornerstone of a definitive diagnosis, leading to successful treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention play a pivotal role in the care of patients with amyloidosis. Here, we present a unique case of a pathological fracture in the L4 vertebra following minor trauma. This fracture manifested with pain, instability and limitations in daily activities in a patient who had already been diagnosed with systemic amyloidosis and was undergoing chemotherapy. This case represents a distinct instance of vertebral involvement in amyloidosis and was managed with both chemotherapy and surgical intervention to address the spinal pathology, resulting in favourable outcomes.
Therapeutic hypothermia after perinatal asphyxia in Vietnam: medium-term outcomes at 18 months – a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tran Hang Thi Thanh , Le Ha Thi , Tran Dien Minh , Nguyen Giang Thi Huong , Hellström-Westas Lena , Alfven Tobias , Olson Linus
Published: February 2024

Aim

To determine neurodevelopmental outcome at 18 months after therapeutic hypothermia for hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) infants in Vietnam, a low-middle-income country.

Method

Prospective cohort study investigating outcomes at 18 months in severely asphyxiated outborn infants who underwent therapeutic hypothermia for HIE in Hanoi, Vietnam, during the time period 2016–2019. Survivors were examined at discharge and at 6 and 18 months by a neonatologist, a neurologist and a rehabilitation physician, who were blinded to the infants’ clinical severity during hospitalisation using two assessment tools: the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) and the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE), to detect impairments and promote early interventions for those who require it.

Results

In total, 130 neonates, 85 (65%) with moderate and 45 (35%) with severe HIE, underwent therapeutic hypothermia treatment using phase change material. Forty-three infants (33%) died during hospitalisation and in infancy. Among the 87 survivors, 69 (79%) completed follow-up until 18 months. Nineteen children developed cerebral palsy (8 diplegia, 3 hemiplegia, 8 dyskinetic), and 11 had delayed neurodevelopment. At each time point, infants with a normal or delayed neurodevelopment had significantly higher ASQ and HINE scores (p<0.05) than those with cerebral palsy.

Conclusion

The rates of mortality and adverse neurodevelopment rate were high and comparable to recently published data from other low-middle-income settings. The ASQ and HINE were useful tools for screening and evaluation of neurodevelopment and neurological function.
Impact of psychosocial factors on the success of neuromodulation treatment for patients with persistent pain
Authors: Goree Johnathan H , Payakachat Nalin , Byers Lauren , Smith G Lawson , Shah Jarna R , Stephens Kimberly E
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Significant interindividual variability in spinal cord stimulation (SCS) outcomes exists. Due to its high cost and risks of complications, criteria to guide patient selection for SCS trials and their outcomes would be helpful. With increased focus on the use of patient-reported outcomes to improve care, we aim to evaluate the National Institute of Health Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System measures for an association with successful SCS trials in patients with persistent pain.

Methods

Our prospective, observational study enrolled 60 patients with persistent pain who underwent an SCS trial. Patients completed demographic and Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System computer adaptive test (PROMIS CAT) assessments to measure self-reported pain interference, depression, anxiety, physical functioning, and sleep disturbance at the time they presented for placement of their trial device.

Results

Of the 58 patients who underwent successful electrode placement, 11 had an unsuccessful trial. There were no differences in patient demographics between patients with a successful and an unsuccessful trial. Patients who had a successful SCS trial reported lower pre-trial levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance and decreased post-trial levels of depression, sleep disturbance, and pain interference.

Conclusions

We found that patients with high levels of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbance using the PROMIS CAT were predictive of unsuccessful trials. In addition, we found that patients with successful SCS trials reported lower levels of these domains on PROMIS CAT administered at the end of the trial.
Beyond traditional therapies: a network meta-analysis on the treatment efficacy for chronic phantom limb pain
Authors: Chung Sun-Mei , Wang Jui-Chien , Lin Chung-Ren , Liu Shu-Cheng , Wu Po-Ting , Kuan Fa-Chuan , Fang Ching-Ju , Tu Yu-Kang , Hsu Kai-Lan , Lai Pei-Chun , Shih Chien-An
Published: February 2024

Background

Phantom limb pain (PLP) frequently affects individuals with limb amputations. When PLP evolves into its chronic phase, known as chronic PLP, traditional therapies often fall short in providing sufficient relief. The optimal intervention for chronic PLP remains unclear.

Objective

The objectives of this network meta-analysis (NMA) were to examine the efficacy of different treatments on pain intensity for patients with chronic PLP.

Evidence review

We searched Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, and CINAHL EBSCO, focusing on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated interventions such as neuromodulation, neural block, pharmacological methods, and alternative treatments. An NMA was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The primary outcome was pain score improvement, and the secondary outcomes were adverse events.

Findings

The NMA, incorporating 12 RCTs, indicated that neuromodulation, specifically repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, provided the most substantial pain improvement when compared with placebo/sham groups (mean difference=−2.9 points, 95% CI=−4.62 to –1.18; quality of evidence (QoE): moderate). Pharmacological intervention using morphine was associated with a significant increase in adverse event rate (OR=6.04, 95% CI=2.26 to 16.12; QoE: low).

Conclusions

The NMA suggests that neuromodulation using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation may be associated with significantly larger pain improvement for chronic PLP. However, the paucity of studies, varying patient characteristics across each trial, and absence of long-term results underscore the necessity for more comprehensive, large-scale RCTs.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023455949.
Brain MRI features of postdural puncture headache
Authors: Sánchez García Fernando J , Jornet Fayos Jose , Pastor del Campo Aida , LLopis Calatayud Jose Emilio
Published: February 2024

Background

Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) is a relatively common acute complication that occurs following regional anesthesia and is among the clinical features of secondary intracranial hypotension syndrome (IHS).

The aim of this study was to document the radiological findings specific to PDPH with brain MRI and to determine whether these findings differed from those described in the third edition of the International Headache Society’s International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-3).

Methods

Thirty patients who were diagnosed with PDPH based on the ICHD-3 clinical criteria were enrolled in the study and signed the informed consent form approved by our hospital ethics committee. Their symptoms were recorded and they underwent brain MRI before and after the administration of a gadolinium-based contrast agent within 48–72 hours after the onset of their orthostatic headache.

Results

All patients with PDPH presented with MRI features of pachymeningeal enhancement. The thickness of the pachymeningeal enhancement varied from 0.6 mm to 4.1 mm, with a mean of 1.6 mm+0.8.

No cases of brain sagging were observed. 4 of the 30 patients presented with intracranial subdural fluid collections, 7 presented with pneumocephalus and 7 pituitary gland enlargement.

Conclusions

The radiological characteristics of IHS and PDPH are most likely the result of compensatory mechanisms in response to decreased cerebrospinal fluid pressure. The acute nature of PDPH probably causes its radiological MRI characteristics to differ from those of IHS, given that no brain sagging could be demonstrated.
Association of sex and aspirin use with postoperative bleeding in patients with lower extremity long bone fractures
Authors: Fisher Michael , Salottolo Kristin , Carrick Matthew , Corrigan Chad M , Banton Kaysie L , Madayag Robert , Bar-Or David
Published: February 2024

Objective

The perioperative management of patients on antiplatelet drugs is a rising challenge in orthopedic trauma because antiplatelet drugs are frequently encountered and carry an increased risk of hemorrhagic consequences. The study objective was to examine the effect of aspirin on bleeding outcomes for patients with lower extremity fractures.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients requiring surgical fixation of traumatic hip, femur, and tibia fractures from January 1, 2018, to March 1, 2020. Patients were excluded if they had a significant head injury, were on chronic anticoagulant therapy, or they did not receive venous thromboembolism chemoprophylaxis. Comparisons between aspirin users (patients on aspirin therapy preinjury) and non-aspirin users were examined using χ2tests, Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests, and multivariate logistic regression. The primary outcome was an overt, actionable bleed (eg, blood transfusion for surgical site hemorrhage) within 24 hours postoperative.

Results

There were 864 patients with lower extremity long bone fractures and 24% were aspirin users. The incidence of postoperative bleeding was 8.8% and significantly differed for patients taking aspirin versus not (13.6% vs 7.3%, p=0.01). However, biological sex at birth (M/F) was a significant effect modifier (interaction p=0.04). Among women, there were significantly more postoperative bleeds for aspirin users (17.8% aspirin vs 7.4% no aspirin, adjusted OR (AOR): 2.48 (1.28–4.81), p=0.01). Among men, there were similar postoperative bleeding events by aspirin use (5.6% aspirin vs 7.2% no aspirin, AOR: 0.50 (0.14–1.82), p=0.30). Postoperative hemoglobin values <8 g/dL were more frequent among female aspirin users (21.5% aspirin vs 12.5% no aspirin, p=0.01), but this association was not observed in men (p=0.43).

Conclusion

Women taking aspirin who suffer lower extremity fractures have greater than twofold greater odds of a postoperative bleeding event. These findings suggest adequate perioperative planning to ensure blood availability, and increased awareness to monitor closely for hemorrhage in the 24-hour postoperative window for women taking aspirin preinjury.

Level of evidence

IV
Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty and grafted tubularized incised plate urethroplasty: systematic review, meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Borkar Nitinkumar , Tiwari Charu , Nair Abhijit , Mohanty Debajyoti , Sinha C K , Mahajan Jai Kumar
Published: February 2024

Background

Hypospadias is one of the most common genital birth defects. There are around 300 various techniques available for the repair of hypospadias. This study aims to compare the reported outcomes of Tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (TIP) and Grafted TIP (GTIP) repair in children undergoing primary hypospadias repair.

Methods

This meta-analysisadhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, and we framed our research question using the population, intervention, control and outcomes format. We conducted comprehensive electronic searches across various databases, employing a Boolean search strategy with predefined search terms. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included for quantitative analysis.

Results

Totally, 10 RCTs met our inclusion criteria for quantitative analysis. The results indicated that urethrocutaneous fistula, glans dehiscence, and stricture rates were comparable between the two groups. The incidence of meatal stenosis was found to be significantly lower in the GTIP group with a relative risk (RR) of 0.32 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.15 to 0.67).

Conclusion

The coucomes UCF, glans dehiscence, and stricture rates were comparable between the two groups. Notably, the incidence of meatal stenosis was found to be significantly lower in the grafted TIP group. In terms of operative time, our quantitative synthesis demonstrated that the TIP group had a shorter operative time than the GTIP group with significant heterogeneity.