bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insights into malignant mitral valve degenerative disease from a sudden cardiac death cohort highlighting significant measurement differences from normal
Authors: Westaby Joseph , Bicalho Luciana , Zullo Emelia , Sheppard Mary N
Published: January 2024

Aims

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is an accepted cause of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in most autopsy series. Diagnosis at autopsy relies upon subjective assessment with no established objective pathological criteria. This study set out to establish objective measurements to help pathologists dealing with SCD.

Methods

We diagnosed 120 (1.5%) cases of MVP in 8108 cases of SCD. We measured the mitral annulus, anterior and posterior leaflets, rough zone and mitral annular disjunction (MAD) in 27 MVP cases and compared them to 54 age‐ and sex‐matched normal mitral valves.

Results

Age of death was 39 ± 16 years, with 59 females and 61 males. History of mild MV disease was present in 19 (16%). Eleven (9%) died associated with exertion. Left ventricular hypertrophy was present in nine (15%) females and 10 (16%) males. Both MV leaflets showed thickening and ballooning in all individuals. MVP showed highly significantly increased annular circumference, elongation and thickening of both leaflets as well as increased MAD (all P < 0.001). Left ventricular fibrosis was present in 108 (90%), with interstitial fibrosis in the posterolateral wall and papillary muscle in 88 (81%) and coexisting replacement fibrosis in 40 (37%).

Conclusion

This is the largest MVP associated with SCD series highlighting a young cohort with equal representation of males and females. There is involvement of both leaflets with significant annular dilatation, elongation and thickening of both leaflets with MAD. Left ventricular fibrosis explains arrhythmia. Our quantitative measurements should serve as a reference for pathologists assessing post‐mortem hearts for MVP.
The oral and systemic health impact profile for periodontal disease (OSHIP‐Perio)—Part 2: Responsiveness and minimal important difference
Authors: Wong Li Beng , Yap Adrian Ujin , Sim Yu Fan , Allen Patrick Finbarr
Published: January 2024

Objectives

The Oral and Systemic Health Impact Profile for Periodontal Disease (OSHIP‐Perio) was developed to measure health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). This study aimed to determine the responsiveness and minimal importance difference (MID) of the OSHIP‐Perio.

Methods

Subjects with periodontal disease completed the OSHIP‐Perio at baseline and six to ten weeks after non‐surgical periodontal therapy. Comparisons of the clinical variables and the OSHIP‐Perio scores before and after treatment were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, together with the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐49, OHIP‐14 and OHIP‐5) scores. The MIDs for all the instruments were calculated using distribution‐based methods.

Results

Fifty‐one case subjects who completed periodontal treatment and the OSHIP‐Perio instrument were included for analysis. Significant improvement in all clinical variables after treatment (p < 0.001) was observed. The OSHIP‐Perio total score as well as its four‐dimensional scores (periodontal, oral function, orofacial pain and psychosocial impact) were significantly reduced after treatment (p < 0.001), indicating better OHRQoL. Findings were consistent with the other OHIP instruments. In determining the MID, the percentage point change of the OSHIP‐Perio was found to be lower than the shorter OHIP‐5 instrument when using both effect sizes (ES) (10.71% vs. 15.0% at 0.5SD) and standard error of measurement (SEM) (5.36% vs. 10.0% at 1SEM; 8.93% vs. 20.0% at 2SEM) calculations.

Conclusions

The OSHIP‐Perio demonstrated good responsiveness which was comparable to the OHIP‐49 and its short‐form derivatives. Its required percentage point change in determining its MID is smaller than the OHIP‐5.
Trans‐epidermal extrusion of lepra bacilli from histoid lesions: a risk of continued transmission
Authors: Gogate Siddharth , Khurana Ananta , Ahuja Arvind , Sardana Kabir
Published: January 2024

The current goal of Zero Leprosy focuses on the interruption of the transmission of infection within endemic regions. While the role of the skin in the transmission dynamics of leprosy has not been clearly delineated, recent research on the environmental presence of lepra bacilli brings this aspect back into focus. We present a case of lepromatous leprosy with perforated‐appearing histoid lesions on the palms and soles, demonstrating the presence of lepra bacilli throughout the epidermis.
Making choices of food and non‐food products: a comparison between virtual stores and online shopping
Authors: Yang Yilin , Liu Mengying , Huang Jianping , Wan Xiaoang
Published: January 2024

While consumers are increasingly used to purchasing online, virtual reality (VR) is well acknowledged to enhance consumer experience via immersive and interaction systems. In our research, we recruited 160 participants (80 per experiment) to compare their consumer experiences of choosing Fast‐Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs) in a virtual store (via VR) and on an online webpage. Specifically, each participant was asked to choose four FMCGs (foods in Experiment 1 and non‐foods in Experiment 2) for the next 4 weeks, and they filled out the Positive and Negative Affect Scale before and after completing choice tasks. Results of the anova showed that there was a significant decrease in negative affect scores following both food and non‐food choices (Mbefore = 1.3 vs. Mafter = 1.2). Positive affect ratings were significantly higher for food choices in VR than online (MVR = 2.5 vs. Monline = 2.1), with no significant difference for non‐food choices. This highlights the impact of VR on food choice and its potential to transform human–food interactions. The study reveals that VR can narrow the gap between consumers' expectations and actual perceptions by creating an immersive and interactive shopping experience, thus significantly influencing consumer behaviour.
Detection of adulteration in cold‐pressed olive oil by voltammetric analysis of alpha‐tocopherol on single‐use pencil graphite electrode
Authors: Karagözlü Mehmet , Adun Perihan , Ozsoz Mehmet , Aşır Süleyman
Published: January 2024

A quick, simple, environmentally friendly and cost‐effective screening approach for identifying parameters of adulteration in cold‐pressed olive oil (CPOO) was developed. The technique focused on the electrochemical examination of the peak of alpha‐tocopherol oxidation on pencil graphite electrode (PGE). Rapeseed oil (RO), sunflower oil (SO), and corn oil (CO) were added to local CPOO in varying amounts, and the mixtures were then tested by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) on PGE. Voltammetric analysis of CPOO and its artificially created mixtures with other commercial oils have demonstrated statistically significant discrimination with an ability to detect adulteration under the level of 10% on weight basis. The method's relative standard deviation (RSD) was 20%, and the α‐tocopherol in CPOO cut‐off value was 30.98 ± 12.57 nA. As far as our knowledge, no data on utilisation of voltammetric techniques for the detection of olive oil adulteration are available to date by using PGE. The results showed that the developed method is capable of detection of adulteration in natural olive oils without any pretreatment.
“It was a reflection of myself, that i was weak”: The impact of depression on the sense of self – An interpretive phenomenological analysis
Authors: O'Mahony James , Happell Brenda , O'Connell Rhona
Published: January 2024

The World Health Organisation states that more than 350 million people experience depression globally. The phenomenological changes in individuals experiencing depression are profound Phenomenological research can further researchers' and clinicians' understanding of this experience. This study aimed to gain a phenomenological understanding of how individuals with depression understood and made sense of their experiences. A methodology of interpretative phenomenological analysis was adopted. In‐depth semi‐structured interviews explored the lived experience of depression for eight individuals. Data were analysed into the superordinate theme Broken Self – Transforming the Self. The superordinate theme developed from the subordinate themes of ‘unknown self, loss of self and one's identity’, ‘desperate for a way out’, and thirdly, ‘conflict with self and what's known’, which related directly to how individuals made sense of their experience of depression. These research findings highlight the human implications of the experience of depression and the limitations of viewing depression from a biological or medical model lens. Understanding the human impact is essential for the effective, holistic practice of mental health nursing.
Work alienation and quality of work life among nurses: A descriptive cross‐sectional study
Authors: Çiçek Korkmaz Ayşe , Torlak Kübra
Published: January 2024

Background

Work alienation in nursing can create various problems that affect the quality of work life of nurses, which should be addressed from different perspectives.

Aims

This study investigated the relationship between work alienation and the quality of work life, aiming to determine the factors affecting nurses' quality of work life.

Design

This is a descriptive and cross‐sectional study that used the STROBE guidelines to prepare this study report.

Methods

The study was conducted between March and June 2022 in Turkey with 303 nurses. It used an online questionnaire with a simple random sampling. Data were collected using a descriptive characteristics form, the Work Alienation Scale, and the Quality of Nursing Work Life Scale. The data were analyzed with Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis.

Results

There was a significant negative correlation between work alienation and the quality of work life. Four independent variables with 58.2% impact on the nurses' quality of work life were identified, including participation in the decision‐making process, the ability to use initiative during the production of the service, the significance of the work for the individual, and the type of institution.

Conclusions

The nurses' work alienation score was moderate, and their quality of work life score was high. An increase in the feeling of work alienation statistically decreased the quality of work life.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Nurses who experience work alienation may face a decline in their quality of work life that may have an adverse effect on their work performance and work satisfaction.
Latent class analysis of the sleep quality of night shift nurses and impact of shift‐related factors on the occupational stress and anxiety
Authors: Yuan Mei‐Zhen , Fang Qin
Published: January 2024

Aims

The objective of this study is to explore the various latent categories within the sleep quality of night shift nurses and to investigate whether shift‐related factors predispose nurses to higher levels of occupational stress and anxiety.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional study.

Methods

From November to December 2020, registered nurses from 18 tertiary hospitals and 16 secondary hospitals in Chongqing were selected through convenience sampling for this study. Latent class analysis was used to investigate the sleep quality of nurses working night shifts. Furthermore, univariate analysis and logistic multivariate analysis were utilized to identify the contributing factors to occupational stress and anxiety.

Results

The four latent categories of Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index for night shift nurses were identified as ‘Low Sleep Disorder Group’ (56.34%), ‘Moderate Sleep Disorder Group’ (37.27%), ‘High Sleep Disorder Non‐Reliant on Sleeping medication Group’ (4.89%) and ‘High Sleep Disorder Reliant on Sleeping medication Group’ (1.50%). The results showed that having a night‐shift frequency of 3–4 times per month, night‐shift durations of 9–12 h, sleep time delay after night shift (≥2 h), total sleep time after night shift less than 4 h were shift‐related factors that increased the levels of occupational stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

The sleep quality of night shift nurses demonstrates heterogeneity and can be classified into four latent categories. Higher frequency of night shifts, extended work hours and insufficient rest time are all associated with increased levels of occupational stress and anxiety.

Impact

By identifying the four latent categories of sleep quality among night shift nurses, this study sheds light on the relationship between sleep patterns and levels of occupational stress and anxiety. These findings have important implications for healthcare institutions in the management of nurse well‐being and work schedules.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Increasing physical activity through an adapted web‐based exercise program for people with intellectual disabilities: Support staff are crucial for feasibility
Authors: Fjellström Sanna , Hölttä Jessica , Nordström Anna , Flygare Wallén Eva , Lund Ohlsson Marie , Hansen Elisabeth
Published: January 2024

Background

People with intellectual disabilities are less physically active and suffer from ill‐health more than the general population. Support staff play an important role in the person's life. This study aimed to explore the support staff's experiences regarding the feasibility of adapted web‐based exercise for people with intellectual disabilities.

Method

Participants with intellectual disabilities living in community‐based settings were recruited for a web‐based exercise study. Eight semi‐structured interviews were carried out with their support staff before and after the intervention period.

Results

The main theme, ‘Support staff are crucial for feasibility’ encompasses the importance of communication, structure, and motivation in improving physical activity for people with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusion

The experiences of support staff, indicate that a web‐based exercise program is feasible for the target group, and one way to overcome challenges for PA, where the role of the staff is crucial.
Australia's circular economy metrics and indicators
Authors: Miatto Alessio , Emami Nargessadat , Goodwin Kylie , West James , Taskhiri Mohammad Sadegh , Wiedmann Thomas , Schandl Heinz
Published: January 2024

This article presents a comprehensive economy‐wide material flow analysis of the Australian economy in 2019, examining the domestic extraction, trade, end‐of‐life flows, and recycling for all materials. The results highlight Australia's role as a natural resource supplier, with metals and fossil fuels being primary contributors. Through material flow analysis, we found that in 2019 Australia extracted 2587 Mt of natural resources, exported a substantial fraction (1459 Mt), and used 917 Mt to fulfill domestic needs. The recycling flows and circularity metrics are also explored, with an end‐of‐life recycling rate of 51.1% and an overall circularity rate of 5.1%. An additional assessment of Australia's consumption‐based material footprint highlights mobility and housing as the dominant material‐using sectors. These results contribute to understanding Australia's material consumption patterns, indicating significant reliance on foreign semifinished and finished products, and provide insights into the potential for enhancing economic circularity.
Towards quantification of doping in gallium arsenide nanostructures by low‐energy scanning electron microscopy and conductive atomic force microscopy
Authors: Guo Ran , Walther Thomas
Published: January 2024

We calculate a universal shift in work function of 59.4 meV per decade of dopant concentration change that applies to all doped semiconductors and from this use Monte Carlo simulations to simulate the resulting change in secondary electron yield for doped GaAs. We then compare experimental images of doped GaAs layers from scanning electron microscopy and conductive atomic force microscopy. Kelvin probe force microscopy allows to directly measure and map local work function changes, but values measured are often smaller, typically only around half, of what theory predicts for perfectly clean surfaces.
Case Management for Social Needs of Youth and Families in School‐Based Health Centers
Authors: Keeton Victoria F. , Soleimanpour Samira , Geierstanger Sara , Schapiro Naomi A.
Published: January 2024

Background

School‐based health centers (SBHCs) are ideal settings to address social needs of youth and families. Case managers can play a vital role in social care interventions.

Methods

We piloted a program to incorporate a Case Manager into the care team of 1 SBHC serving 2 local schools with over 900 students and their surrounding communities. This project's purpose was to evaluate program feasibility, utilization, and acceptability. Our mixed‐methods evaluation included analyses of data from electronic health records, client satisfaction surveys, and staff interviews.

Results

During the 6‐month pilot, the Case Manager served 133 clients (about one third of all SBHC clients served) through 593 contacts. Most contacts included referrals to support services (90%) and 37% addressed newcomer immigrant adjustment. All 37 respondents to the satisfaction survey during the 3‐month administration period (44% response rate) reported that the Case Manager made them feel comfortable asking for help; 95% reported getting the help they needed. The 7 SBHC staff interviewed shared many program benefits, including increased time for clinical services.

Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity

Inequities in children's health and educational achievement are influenced by structural factors. Results from our pilot program demonstrate that SBHCs may be well‐positioned to deliver social care interventions and that case managers enhance the ability to deliver quality care.

Conclusions

School‐based programs to address unmet social needs are critical to supporting learning and wellness for all youth. Robust studies are needed to further test the impacts of case management in SBHCs.
Nightmare experiences and perceived ethnic discrimination amongst female university students in the United Arab Emirates: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Campo Redondo Maria , Andrade Gabriel
Published: January 2024

Perceived ethnic discrimination is known to be associated with anxiety and depression, and in turn, anxiety and depression are known to be associated with nightmare frequency and distress. This elicits a question: is perceived ethnic discrimination associated with nightmare frequency and distress? In this study, 179 female university students from the United Arab Emirates were assessed to answer that question. Results showed that while anxiety and depression were related to nightmare experiences, perceived ethnic discrimination was a stronger predictor of nightmare experiences. We posit two explanations for this finding: one based on psychoanalytical insights, and the other based on the Disposition–Stress model with neurobiological correlates. No significant differences were found across ethnicity when it comes to nightmare experiences or perceived ethnic discrimination. This is an encouraging sign of optimal societal integration in the United Arab Emirates.
Mindfulness training in healthcare professions: A scoping review of systematic reviews
Authors: Kajee Nabeela , Montero-Marin Jesus , Saunders Kate E. A. , Myall Kearnan , Harriss Elinor , Kuyken Willem
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The effectiveness of mindfulness training (MT) on mental health and wellbeing in different groups and contexts is well‐established. However, the effect of MT on different healthcare professionals' (HCPs) mental health and wellbeing needs to be synthesised, along with a focus on outcomes that are specifically relevant to healthcare settings. The aim of this study is to summarise the effect of MT interventions on HCPs' mental health and wellbeing, to explore its effect on communication skills and to identify potential gaps in the literature.

Methods

A scoping review of systematic reviews (SRs) investigating MT interventions in HCPs was conducted. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted from database inception to 22 February 2023 on Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Scopus, Cochrane (CENTRAL), EBSCHOhost CINAHL, Ovid PsycINFO, Web of Science (Core Collection), OpenGrey, TRIP Database and Google Scholar. Snowballing of reference lists and hand‐searching were utilised. Risk of bias and quality of included SRs were assessed using the ROBIS and AMSTAR2 tools.

Results

Sixteen SRs were included in this review. We found substantial evidence for MT interventions improving mental health and wellbeing across different HCPs, with the exception of burnout, where evidence is mixed. There is a paucity of SRs evaluating communication skills other than empathy. However, the available evidence is suggestive of improvements in self‐reported empathy. Details of MT fidelity and dosage are largely absent in the SRs, as is study populations from representative EDI samples.

Conclusions

Synthesis of SRs suggests that MT improves mental health and wellbeing in HCPs. The exception is burnout, where results are inconclusive. Insufficient data exists to evaluate effects of MT on the full spectrum of communication skills. Other HCPs than medicine and nursing are inadequately represented. Further research is required that considers the specific target population of HCPs and MT curriculum, and reports on fidelity, dosage and the effects on communication skills.
The writer's voice repertoire: Exploring how health researchers accomplish a distinctive ‘voice’ in their writing
Authors: Lingard Lorelei , Watling Chris
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Much published research writing is dull and dry at best, impenetrable and off‐putting at worst. This state of affairs both frustrates readers and impedes research uptake. Scientific conventions of objectivity and neutrality contribute to the problem, implying that ‘good’ research writing should have no discernible authorial ‘voice’. Yet some research writers have a distinctive voice in their work that may contribute to their scholarly influence. In this study, we explore this notion of voice, examining what strong research writers aim for with their voice and what strategies they use.

Methods

Using a combination of purposive, snowball and theoretical sampling, we recruited 21 scholars working in health professions education or adjacent health research fields, representing varied career stages, research paradigms and geographical locations. We interviewed participants about their approaches to writing and asked each to provide one to three illustrative publications. Iterative data collection and analysis followed constructivist grounded theory principles. We analysed interview transcripts thematically and examined publications for evidence of the writers' described approaches.

Results

Participants shared goals of a voice that was clear and logical, and that engaged readers and held their attention. They accomplished these goals using approaches both conventional and unconventional. Conventional approaches included attention to coherence through signposting, symmetry and metacommentary. Unconventional approaches included using language that was evocative (metaphor, imagery), provocative (pointed critique), plainspoken (‘non‐academic’ phrasing), playful (including humour) and lyrical (attending to cadence and sound). Unconventional elements were more prominent in non‐standard genres (e.g. commentaries), but also appeared in empiric papers.

Discussion

What readers interpret as ‘voice’ reflects strategic use of a repertoire of writing techniques. Conventional techniques, used expertly, can make for compelling reading, but strong writers also draw on unconventional strategies. A broadened writing repertoire might assist health professions education research writers in effectively communicating their work.
Invasion success of three cool‐season grasses in the northern prairie: a test of three hypotheses
Authors: Villasor Cedric , Robertson Kateri , Becker Thomas , Cahill James F. , Deák Balázs , Hensen Isabell , Otfinowski Rafael , Rosche Christoph , Borovyk Dariia , Vakhlamova Tatyana , Valkó Orsolya , Wagner Viktoria
Published: January 2024

Empirical invasion ecology is laden with high context dependency. If general mechanisms underlying invasion success exist, they should be detectable in species that share biological and ecological characteristics. We carried out a growth experiment with Agropyron cristatum, Bromus inermis and Poa pratensis (subsp. angustifolia), to better understand the mechanisms underlying the invasion success of cool‐season grasses in northern prairie grasslands of North America. By using a home–away approach, we tested whether 1) non‐native plants have a higher performance than native plants, and whether invasiveness is 2) mediated by interactions with soils, such as a release from pathogens or enhanced mutualism, or 3) an adaptation to local soils. We compared seed size and weight of populations in Canada (non‐native range) and Eurasia (native range) and carried out an experiment, in which seeds from the non‐native and native ranges were planted into sterilized soil (control) and soil from a population in Canada or Eurasia, or local soils, respectively. We found inconsistent effects across species and response variables. Seed size and weight were not significantly different between native and non‐native populations. The experiment showed a seed origin effect in A. cristatum (root and total biomass) and B. inermis (root biomass), with non‐native populations outperforming native ones. Soil‐mediated effects were supported in A. cristatum (root biomass) and local adaptation in B. inermis (root and total biomass). Germination across all species and biomass in P. pratensis did not respond to treatments. Despite the high similarity of our study group, our results indicate that invasiveness might be driven by idiosyncratic causes at the species level. Mechanisms not considered in our study, such as high propagule pressure and preadaptation could also potentially explain the invasion success across species.
Fertility loss under thermal stress: males have lower fertility limits but no evidence of sex differences in sensitivity
Authors: Parrett Jonathan M. , Kulczak Marta , Szudarek‐Trepto Natalia
Published: January 2024

Climate change models predict that the frequency and intensity of heatwaves are likely to increase, therefore understanding population responses to these extreme climatic events will be key in mitigating biodiversity loss. Here, using the male dimorphic bulb mite, Rhizoglyphus robini, we investigate and compare the impact of experimental heat stress on survival and fertility between females and male morphs that differ in the expression of a sexually selected weapon. We show that lethal limits are similar among all individuals, but find clear sex differences, although no difference between morphs, in sub‐lethal temperatures causing sterility: female fertility remains high close to lethal limits, whereas both male morphs suffer fertility loss at more than 2.5°C below their lethal limits. Contrastingly, when thermal stress was lower the sexes and morphs do not differ in their thermal sensitivity and declines in reproductive output are comparable. These declines appear to be additive as we observe the greatest declines when both sexes were exposed to thermal stress. In addition, during assays we included an extra treatment that allowed individuals two extra days to recover and found that fertility loss was almost fully recovered when thermal stress was low, but only partially recovered under the most extreme temperatures. The impact of heat stress on fertility therefore appears to be temporary with individuals rapidly recovering: whether recovery can negate negative population level effects remains to be investigated. Our experiments reveal the impact of heat stress on survival and fertility, finding sex‐specific fertility loss under the most extreme thermal conditions.
How young adults explain their intention to participate in online direct citizen participation
Authors: van den Berg Annelieke C. , Giest Sarah , Groeneveld Sandra
Published: January 2024

Facilitating direct citizen participation through online channels is considered as an opportunity for including harder to reach groups in participation. Because young adults (18‐25) are heavy internet users, this group is expected to be easier to include online. Evidence shows, however, that also in online direct participation young adults remain underrepresented. To better understand this discrepancy from the perspective of participants, this research asks how young adults explain their intention to participate online. Thematic analysis highlights that young adults' intention to participate in online direct participation can be explained through: (1) cause‐oriented participation, (2) the role of social (media) networks, (3) selective attention to cope with information overload, and (4) navigating misinformation and negativity. In the discussion section, this article considers how these explanations can inform government strategies for better including young adults in online direct participation.
MicroRNA‐encoded regulatory peptides modulate cadmium tolerance and accumulation in rice
Authors: Lu Long , Chen Xinyu , Chen Jiaming , Zhang Zaoli , Zhang Zhen , Sun Yanyan , Wang Yuan , Xie Siwen , Ma Yinuo , Song Yuanyuan , Zeng Rensen
Published: January 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that play a vital role in plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. Recently, it has been discovered that some primary miRNAs (pri‐miRNAs) encode regulatory short peptides called miPEPs. However, the presence of miPEPs in rice, and their functions in response to abiotic stresses, particularly stress induced by heavy metals, remain poorly understood. Here, we identified a functional small peptide (miPEP156e) encoded by pri‐miR156e that regulates the expression of miR156 and its target SPL genes, thereby affecting miR156‐mediated cadmium (Cd) tolerance in rice. Overexpression of miPEP156e led to decreased uptake and accumulation of Cd and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in plants under Cd stress, resulting in improved rice Cd tolerance, as observed in miR156‐overexpressing lines. Conversely, miPEP156e mutants displayed sensitivity to Cd stress due to the elevated accumulation of Cd and ROS. Transcriptome analysis further revealed that miPEP156e improved rice Cd tolerance by modulating Cd transporter genes and ROS scavenging genes. Our study provides insights into the regulatory mechanism of miPEP156e in rice response to Cd stress and demonstrates the potential of miPEPs as an effective tool for improving crop abiotic stress tolerance.
In‐person validation of the Ichthyosis Scoring System
Authors: Echeandia‐Francis Caroline , Sun Qisi , Asch Sarah , Bayart Cheryl , Benjamin Latanya , Cipriano Sarah D. , Craiglow Brittany , Dyer Jonathan , Levy Moise L. , Lilly Evelyn , Newell Brandon , Liang Jingchen , Gan Geliang , Deng Yanhong , Paller Amy S. , Choate Keith A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Ichthyoses are a heterogeneous group of skin disorders characterized by scaling and erythema. Recognizing the variability of scale and erythema by region and ichthyosis subtype, we developed the Ichthyosis Scoring System (ISS) to quantify severity. We previously found ISS to have high inter‐ and intrarater reliability in evaluating photographic images. To confirm ISS clinical utility, we examined its performance at the 2022 Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types conference.

Methods

Sixty‐five participants were evaluated by 3 of 9 medical professionals trained to score ichthyosis scale and erythema using ISS. Intrarater and interrater intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were analyzed using one‐way and two‐way random effects models, respectively.

Results

Intrarater reliability was excellent (ICC = 0.931, 95% CI, 0.921–0.940) for scale and good (ICC = 0.876, 95% CI, 0.853–0.899) for erythema scoring. Compared to photo validation with excellent intrarater reliability ratings for both scale (ICC = 0.956, 95% CI, 0.925–0.974) and erythema (ICC = 0.913, 95% CI, 0.855–0.949), ISS demonstrated equivalent reliability for live use. Overall interrater reliability for 10 body sites showed excellent (ICC >0.9) and good (ICC >0.75) agreement and consistency for both scale and erythema. Palms were an exception, demonstrating moderate (ICC >0.5) interrater agreement and consistency for erythema evaluation.

Conclusions

ISS is a reliable measure of global and regional ichthyosis severity during in‐person evaluations. Ease‐of‐use, accessibility, and content validity in both live and photographic evaluation endorse ISS as a standard for ichthyosis severity analysis.
Cigarette smoking is an independent risk factor for developing vitiligo on the hands
Authors: Enomoto Yuki , Kanayama Yoshifumi , Ikumi Kyoko , Sakurai Mai , Yamamoto Aya , Morita Akimichi
Published: January 2024

Background

Vitiligo presents with varying clinical features based on the type and location. Treatment tends to be more effective on the face, neck, trunk, and mid‐extremities, while the lips and distal extremities may be more resistant. Vitiligo in frequently exposed areas such as the face, arms, legs, and hands is typically associated with a lower Dermatology Life Quality Index.

Objectives

We aimed to identify the characteristics and potential causes of vitiligo in challenging‐to‐treat regions, with particular focus on the hands.

Methods

We analyzed the clinical data of 337 patients with generalized vitiligo who visited our hospital between 2016 and 2022. For this study, we focused on patients with non‐segmental vitiligo (NSV) specifically on their hands. Of the 337 patients, 248 had NSV and 89 had segmental vitiligo; 119 (47%) of those with NSV had vitiligo on their hands. Logistic regression models were applied to identify factors the factors linked to hand vitiligo, such as age, sex, duration of the condition, and smoking and alcohol history.

Results and Conclusions

We developed a model to predict the risk of hand vitiligo using several factors. Among the factors analyzed, only smoking history was significantly associated with an increased risk (odds ratio: 3.13). In addition, we used clinical photography to evaluate color‐graded frequency heat maps comprising 528 pixels. Vitiligo in nonsmokers widely distributed over the hand, predominantly the fingertips and joints, whereas vitiligo in smokers tended to be distributed mostly at the fingertips.
Perception of near‐threshold visual stimuli is influenced by prestimulus alpha‐band amplitude but not by alpha phase
Authors: Melcón María , Stern Enrique , Kessel Dominique , Arana Lydia , Poch Claudia , Campo Pablo , Capilla Almudena
Published: January 2024

Ongoing brain activity preceding visual stimulation has been suggested to shape conscious perception. According to the pulsed inhibition framework, bouts of functional inhibition arise in each alpha cycle (every ~100 ms), allowing information to be processed in a pulsatile manner. Consequently, it has been hypothesized that perceptual outcome can be influenced by the specific phase of alpha oscillations prior to the stimulus onset, although empirical findings are controversial. In this study, we aimed to shed light on the role of prestimulus alpha oscillations in visual perception. To this end, we recorded electroencephalographic activity, while participants performed three near‐threshold visual detection tasks with different attentional involvement: a no‐cue task, a noninformative cue task (50% validity), and an informative cue task (100% validity). Cluster‐based permutation statistics were complemented with Bayesian analyses to test the effect of prestimulus oscillatory amplitude and phase on visual awareness. We additionally examined whether these effects differed in trials with low and high oscillatory amplitude, as expected from the pulsed inhibition theory. Our results show a clear effect of prestimulus alpha amplitude on conscious perception, but only when alpha fluctuated spontaneously. In contrast, we did not find any evidence that prestimulus alpha phase influenced perceptual outcome, not even when differentiating between low‐ and high‐amplitude trials. Furthermore, Bayesian analysis provided moderate evidence in favor of the absence of phase effects. Taken together, our results challenge the central theoretical predictions of the pulsed inhibition framework, at least for the particular experimental conditions used here.
Indium‐copper‐rich sphalerite from the Restauradora vein, Capillitas, Catamarca, Argentina
Authors: Márquez‐Zavalía María Florencia , Vymazalová Anna , Galliski Miguel Ángel , Laufek František , Tuhý Marek , Watanabe Yasushi , Bernhardt Heinz‐Jürgen
Published: January 2024

The Restauradora vein, is one of the 20 veins of Capillitas (27°27′ S, 66°30′ W), an epithermal precious‐ and base‐metal vein deposit belonging to the Farallón Negro Mining District, northwestern Argentina. One of the main minerals of the paragenesis of Restauradora vein is sphalerite, showing a large substitution of Zn by In and Cu with small participation of Cd and Fe; the fluctuating Zn composition ranges from 0.99 to 0.49 apfu, while In and Cu ranges (apfu) are: 0.22–0.27 and 0.21–0.25, respectively. Under the polarizing‐light microscope, using reflected light, the optical properties are those of sphalerite, but with decreasing contents of Zn, especially when Zn is ≤0.60 apfu, a new variety differentiates from regular sphalerite and develops ribbons with paler colors, higher reflectance, softer relative hardness and no internal reflections. The main reflectance values of this In‐Cu‐rich sphalerite are (Rair, λ/nm): 20.55, 470; 19.43, 546; 19.02, 589; and 18.42, 650. The strongest five x‐ray powder‐diffraction lines of the synthetic analogue [d in Å (I) (hkl)] are: 3.173 (100) (111); 1.943 (54) (202); 1.657 (37) (113); 1.122 (22) (224); 1.261 (19) (133), the space group is F‐43m, with a = 5.49692(10) Å, V = 166,100(10) Å3, Z = 4. Electron‐microprobe analyses of the In‐Cu‐rich sphalerite grains (n = 10) give an average composition (wt%) of: S 29.51, Zn 31.03, In 24.89, Cu 13.49, Ga 0.96, Cd 0.54, Fe 0.05; the average (n = 7) chemical composition of the synthetic phase is: S 29.67, Zn 30.32, In 25.94, Cu 13.82. Despite of the differences, and given that Zn is the main cation and that the structure is the same as that of sphalerite, the mineral studied here is considered as the richest In‐Cu variety of sphalerite in the world.
Enhancing special care dentistry with waiting room based multisensory‑adapted dental environment: A randomized controlled‐trial
Authors: Mehta Shivani , Naik Shilpa S. , Kodical Sanjana R. , Joshi Amil , Shetty Ashveeta , Balasubramanian Nikitha
Published: January 2024

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of waiting room based multisensory adapted dental environment (SADE) as a novel, non‐invasive behavior management technique in alleviating anxiety levels in children with Down syndrome.

Materials and Methods

This study was conducted in the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, D.Y. Patil University School of Dentistry, Nerul, Navi Mumbai. A total of 40 children between 8 and 13 years of age diagnosed with Down syndrome were included in our study. Prior to the first dental evaluation, they were divided equally into two groups using simple randomization via lottery system. Group A (Intervention group): Patients were subjected to a sensory adapted environment (SADE) in the waiting room for 10 min prior to dental evaluation. Group B (Control group): Patients were subjected to a regular dental environment (RDE) in the waiting room for 10 min prior to dental evaluation. Outcome parameters evaluated at baseline and post dental evaluation were anxiety and behavior, using a pulse oximeter and the Modified Venham's Scale respectively. Data were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 21.0 (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL). The ‘p’ value < .05 was taken as significant at 95% confidence interval.

Results

Mann‐Whitney U test was used to carry out the inter group analysis which showed a significant increase in the heart rate (26.00, p = .00) in Group B and a significant decrease in the Modified Venham Scale score (90.00, p = .001) in Group A. The Wilcoxon Signed ranks test was used to carry out the intra group analysis for which a significant difference between the two time intervals for heart rate (−3.69, p = .00) and Modified Venham Scale score (−1.46, p = .03) was obtained in Group A whereas a significant difference was obtained only in the heart rate (−3.04, p = .002) in Group B.

Conclusion

Multisensory‐adapted dental environment (SADE) in the waiting room effectively improves behavior, reduces anxiety and sensory discomfort among children with Down syndrome.
Discrepancy in medications reported by elderly patients in the dental office and in their electronic medical records: A pilot study
Authors: Abeleira‐Pazos María Teresa , García‐Mato Eliane , Diniz‐Freitas Márcio , Muñoz‐Navarro Carolina , Lago‐Méndez Lucía , Vázquez‐García Emma , Rivas‐Mundiña Berta
Published: January 2024

Aims

This study's main objective was to analyze the discrepancy between the dental medication record (DMR) and the physician‐prescribed active medications recorded in the medical medication record (MMR).

Methods

The study group consisted of 100 adults who attended the University Dental Clinic (Santiago de Compostela, Spain) requesting dental care. A dental history was created for all participants that included the DMR. The MMR were compiled from their electronic medical records.

Results

About 80% of the patients consumed at least one drug (94.2% of those >65 years) and 19% took more than five drugs (26.4% of those > 65 years). In total, 54% of the patients had some discrepancy between the medications recorded in the DMR and those in the MMR (48.4% for those ≤65 years and 64.7% for those >65 years). The rate of participants who omitted some drugs was higher for those >65 years. The drugs most omitted from the DMR were analgesics/opioids, antihypertensives and anxiolytics/hypnotics/sedatives.

Conclusions

It is imperative to access the MMR of patients requesting dental care because a significant number of medications are not reflected in their DMR. These discrepancies may be particularly common and relevant in elderly patients, in whom multimorbidity and polypharmacy are more frequent.
Compound heterozygosity induces a rare Gerbich‐negative phenotype in an immunized blood donor
Authors: Petermann Sarah , Mayer Vanessa , Carbol Alexander , Opitz Andreas , Flesch Brigitte K.
Published: January 2024

Background

Antibodies to Gerbich blood group antigens are exceedingly rare and can cause moderate transfusion reactions. Several deletional variants of the GE‐gene, that harbors long sequence repeats, enable alloimmunization and formation of naturally occurring antibodies.

Subject and Methods

A female blood donor and soldier of the German Army without history of pregnancy or transfusion showed an antibody reactive with all test cells except for GE:‐2‐3 RBC. Thus, anti‐Ge2 was suspected. Molecular analysis including fragment length specific PCR, Sanger sequencing and NGS should reveal the molecular background of the deficiency. Segregation of the variant alleles should be demonstrated by family analysis.

Results

Compound heterozygosity for GYPC exon 2 (GE*01.‐02) and exon 3 (GE*01.‐03) deletion was detected in the donor and her sister. The mother had one exon 3 amplicon of reduced length, while the father heterozygously exhibited a truncated GYPC exon 2. NGS clearly demonstrated reduced coverages within the deletional fragments within each family member. The donor and her sister showed the complete absence of a 640 bp fragment.

Discussion and Conclusion

Rare GE deletion variants can induce naturally occurring anti‐Ge2 in Caucasians. Because of an enhanced risk of injury as soldier autologous RBC of the donor were cryopreserved. The donor and her sibling can give blood for each other because of identical ABO, Rh, and K antigen blood types.
A review of the biology, distribution, and management challenges posed by the invasive weed Ziziphus mauritianaL., with special reference to its invasion in Australia
Authors: Roberts Jason , Dhileepan Kunjithapatham , Florentine Singarayer
Published: January 2024

Ziziphus mauritiana is an economically detrimental and environmentally destructive plant in non‐native areas where it has escaped cultivation. It forms dense, impenetrable thickets that restrict the movement of livestock across the landscape and has the capacity to alter various ecological functions at the site of invasion, all of which contribute towards land degradation and the reduction of economic profitability. Although there are several management strategies implemented to control Z. mauritiana, it is clear that no single‐method approach will effectively control the species in the long‐term. Whilst chemical and mechanical methods appear to show promising results, they tend to be restricted to areas that are easily accessible and, even so, can be challenging and laborious to treat evenly across dense thicket areas. Several prospective biological control agents have been identified for Z. mauritiana, although further investigations are required to ascertain the host specificity, and to explore and identify their climatic and environmental suitability of host specific agents for release in non‐native regions. Ecological burning alone is not effective in controlling Z. mauritiana and will likely increase its emergence. As such, it could be adopted as part of an integrated management approach to assist other methods for long‐term control, but again the development of such an approach requires further investigation. To contribute towards the control of Z. mauritiana, this review explores its biology, distribution and management challenges whilst identifying areas of research that will assist in the long‐term and confident control of the species, with an emphasis on its invasion in Australia.
Homoepitaxial growth of CaWO4
Authors: Tang Hanlin , Shin Kidae , Pan Shuhang , Li Hanshi , Walker Frederick J. , Ahn Charles H.
Published: January 2024

Rare-earth ion-doped dielectric crystals are a promising materials platform for quantum device applications due to their stable and highly coherent optical transitions. Recently, REIs in thin film form have become attractive because of their enhanced control of stoichiometry, lattice structure, and dimensionality. This flexibility provides a versatile host crystal environment. Control of surface and interface structures of host crystals at the atomic scale offers an avenue to further improve the optical properties of the system by mitigating defects, which can otherwise compromise the coherence time of quantum devices. In this work, we have investigated the impact of thermal annealing on the surface morphology of a promising host crystal, CaWO4. Our findings reveal that crystal miscut plays a significant role in determining the surface step-terrace structure at the atomic level. Additionally, by iterating an annealing-wet etch cycle, we have achieved atomically flat surfaces with a roughness of less than 0.5 Å rms over a 1 × 1 μm2 area. Homoepitaxial thin film growth using molecular beam epitaxy on an atomically flat surface of CaWO4 results in high-quality thin films. Our study establishes guiding principles to realize a novel quantum optical system based on REI-doped CaWO4 thin films.