bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of Stable and Radioactive Iodine Dissolved in Interstitial Waters Within the Subduction Input Sediment Offshore Sumatra Subduction Zone
Authors: Owari Satoko , Tomaru Hitoshi , Matsuzaki Hiroyuki
Published: November 2024

Subduction input (sediment before subduction)‐located seaward of the trench is one of the largest iodine budgets on the earth's surface. It is responsible for the deep iodine source in the landward of the trench where the iodine flux is significantly high. However, the distribution in the subduction input is poorly understood, contrary to the subducted sediment (sediment after subduction) landward of the trench. We determined iodine concentration and 129I/127I ratio of the interstitial water from the seafloor to the basement continuously at a subduction input site ~250 km southwest of the Sunda Trench for the first time to understand the iodine distribution. In the study site, the iodine concentration increased with depth linearly to ~100 μM at 1400 mbsf. Iodine isotope ratios (129I/127I) remained constant as low as ~400 × 10−15 from 400 to 1400 mbsf, suggesting that the iodine distribution was mainly controlled by old iodine‐rich fluid (low 129I/127I ratio and high iodine concentration) supplied along the basement and by mixing with seawater (high 129I/127I ratio and low iodine concentration). The linear iodine gradient was changed at ~200 and ~1200 mbsf, where the methane concentration rapidly increased and total organic carbon decreased. This indicates that young iodine (low 129I/127I ratio) was released from the organic materials in the sediment into the interstitial water at these depths. This is the first observation of in situ iodine/methane addition to the interstitial water associated with the organic decomposition. The iodine concentration and 129I/127I ratio indicated that iodine in the subduction input was either derived from the in situ sediment or allochthonous fluid transported from subducted sediment due to differences in physical properties and permeability. This allochthonous iodine transportation to the subduction input may broaden the concept of the iodine cycling in the subduction system, including the sediments after and before subduction.
Damage modes and mechanisms for fine woven pierce SiO2f/SiO2 composite under quasi‐static compression
Authors: Zhang Yawei , Sun Tao , Zeng Zhaoyong , Peng Siping , Zhou Shanyi
Published: November 2024

Finite element analysis (FEA) for fine woven pierce SiO2f/SiO2 composites quasi‐static compression is conducted in weft and Z yarn directions, strain–stress curves with experiments and FEA are compared, and finite element model proves to be valid. During quasi‐static compression, the strain difference between matrix and fiber rise. As for compression in the weft direction, matrix micro‐cracks increased into large cracks and mainly distribute around warp fibers. The interfacial stress increases and results in interface damage around the warp fiber. The stress fields are superimposed and rise in warp and weft yarns overlapping regions, in which damage modes include matrix cracks, fiber debonding, and breakage. Obvious V‐shaped shear bands are formed on YZ surface. As for compression in the Z‐direction, interfacial stresses around the warp and weft fibers are superposited and strengthened, fibers debonding occurs continuously with increasing interfacial stress; stress field inside composites in the Z yarn gets great, SiO2f/SiO2 composites have greater compression strength in the Z‐yarn direction than that in the weft direction.
Inventing a Language Online: The Practice of Edutainment in English Teaching Instagram Posts
Authors: Shahri Naseh , Karizmeh Mojtaba Soleimani
Published: November 2024

As the use of English in digital spaces continues to grow, there is an increasing amount of research focused on how it is adapted to local contexts. Proceeding from the argument that we need to go beyond studying English in isolation to investigate how it gets localized in digital settings, the purpose of the study is to investigate Instagram English teaching posts intended for an Iranian audience. To this end, we collect and analyze a dataset of Instagram posts aimed at teaching English. The research questions center on the resources which come together in these posts. Theoretically, the analysis draws on language assemblages. The findings show that English is entangled with a range of other resources and these Instagram posts emerge as engaging in edutainment, a material activity involving three interlined semiotic processes. While these processes do involve drawing from the users' L1s, they are more complex, involving a more varied set of resources than language. The social practice of edutainment comes to the fore as central, and forms are enlisted to serve this practice.
Emotions at the Heart of Tensions: A Transcendental Phenomenology of Iranian EFL Teachers’ Intra‐ and Interpersonal Emotional Tensions and Regulation Strategies
Authors: Seyri Haniye , Ghiasvand Farhad
Published: November 2024

Teachers constantly face tensions from different sources in L2 education. However, there is a yawning gap of knowledge on L2 teachers’ intrapersonal and interpersonal emotional tensions and associated regulatory strategies in English as a foreign language (EFL) setting. To fill this gap, the current investigation took a phenomenological approach to unveil the perceptions and experiences of a cohort of 20 Iranian EFL teachers concerning intra‐ and interpersonal emotional tensions and their regulation strategies employed to manage such tensions. A semi‐structured interview and an autobiographical narrative were utilized to glean the data. The results obtained by MAXQDA software (v.2020) divulged a range of emotional tensions at both intrapersonal and interpersonal levels. At the intrapersonal level, the participants purported to experience burnout, anxiety, self‐doubt, pressure, and frustration. Concerning interpersonal emotional tensions, they frequently stated that they grappled with collaboration problems with colleagues, stakeholders’ high expectations, and strict institutional rules and relations. To manage such tensions, the participants had used different preventive and responsive emotion regulation strategies with preventive ones being more common. The findings are discussed in detail and some conclusions and implications are enumerated for EFL teachers and teacher educators regarding emotionality and L2 education.
Multi‐Formed Power and Coordinated Responses in Academic Supervision
Authors: (Olivia) Zhang Yan
Published: November 2024

Supervisory dialogues are a local, power‐infused activity that discursively engages students to articulate their views and to reconcile these views with supervisors’ advice. While existing research has well informed us of different ways to solicit and respond to supervisory advice, it remains unclear how different forms of power are exercised to negotiate advice and other complex issues of research writing. Through observations, interviews and discourse analysis, this study examines how supervisors and students coordinate their responses to exercise multi‐formed power in supervision meetings. Findings reveal gatekeeping, interactional, responsive and explorative power as crucial resources both parties utilize to legitimate authority, shape epistemic asymmetries and construct shared understandings in the supervision. These resources assist supervisors to reinforce the expected knowledge‐making and balance their regulation with students’ autonomy and their self‐direction. This process regulates students’ thinking, positioning and (re)orientations to supervisory advice.
Enhancing oxygen‐blocking properties of HfB2‐MoSi2‐SiC coating by CeO2 modification
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Ji Xiang , Chen Yuexing , Wang Peipei , Kiryukhantsev‐Korneev Philipp V. , Levashov Evgeny A. , Shi Ji , Ren Xuanru , Kang Xueqin , Zhang Baojing , Zhang Ping , Xu Leihua
Published: November 2024

To alleviate the destructive alteration of the glass layer surface caused by gas evolution during the oxygen‐blocking process of the HfB2‐MoSi2‐SiC coating, CeO2 was incorporated to modify HfB2‐MoSi2‐SiC coating, and the anti‐oxidation mechanism at 1700°C in air was investigated. Compared with the unmodified HfB2‐MoSi2‐SiC coating, the addition of the refractory CeO2 to the Hf‐B‐Si‐O system leads to the formation of a stable Hf‐Ce‐B‐Si‐O complex phase glass, which substantially enhances the viscosity, stability, and self‐healing sealing properties of the glass layer. The introduction of 0.75 vol.% CeO2 significantly lowers the oxidative activity of the HfB2‐MoSi2‐SiC coating, boosting its average protective efficiency to 99.96% and reducing the maximal oxygen permeability by 43.48%, thus exhibiting superior oxygen‐blocking performance. However, excessive addition of CeO2 leads to an overabundance of oxygen release through its distinctive oxygen vacancy mechanism, which accelerates the formation of Hf‐oxides, resulting in excessive viscosity on the coating surface and leaving oxidation defects unrepaired.
Implementing the MIRROR‐TCM Randomised Control Trial During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Mixed‐Methods Evaluation
Authors: McHugh Molly , Hirschman Karen B. , Toles Mark P. , Ahrens Monica , Morgan Brianna , Osokpo Onome , Shaid Elizabeth C. , McCauley Kathleen , Hanlon Alexandra L. , Pauly Mark V. , Naylor Mary D.
Published: November 2024

Aim

To evaluate the implementation of the Transitional Care Model (TCM), an evidence‐based, advanced practice registered nurse‐led multi‐component intervention, as part of a randomised controlled trial during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

Parallel convergent mixed‐methods approach.

Methods

Data for this study were collected between June 2020 and February 2021. Data from 78 patients who received the intervention and 68 recorded meetings with system leaders and clinical teams were analysed using descriptive statistics, directed content analysis, and joint display.

Results

Fidelity to delivery of elements of the TCM components was variable, with the Hospital‐to‐Home visit elements having the widest range (14.3%–100%) and Maintaining Relationships elements having the highest range (97.3%–98.6%). There were 27 identified challenges and 15 strategies for implementing the TCM with fidelity during the pandemic.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic impacted all aspects of the delivery of the TCM across all sites. This historical event highlighted the need for services and support for patients and caregivers transitioning from the hospital to home.

Implications for Nursing and Patient Care

Evidence‐based solutions are needed to enhance healthcare delivery and patient outcomes. Findings will guide nurses in implementing proven transitional care interventions.

Impact

Findings will inform the implementation and scaling of transitional care and other evidence‐based interventions across diverse healthcare settings.

Reporting Method

GRAMMS reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04212962. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04212962?titles=NCT04212962&rank=1
Health‐Related Quality of Life in Women With Metastatic Breast Cancer: An Integrative Review
Authors: Zhan Yan , Feder Shelli L. , Lustberg Maryam , Batten Janene , Knobf M. Tish
Published: November 2024

Aim

To examine current evidence on health‐related quality of life and its associated factors in women with metastatic breast cancer over the past 10 years.

Design

An integrative review.

Data Sources

We conducted a comprehensive search across five databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science, for studies published between January 2013 and June 2023.

Review Methods

Following the integrative review guideline, we screened full‐text papers based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute's appraisal checklist, and the data were extracted and synthesised.

Results

Of 7316 articles, 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most of the participants were non‐Hispanic white women from the United States or Europe. Various instruments were used to assess health‐related quality of life. The key factors included sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, physical symptoms and function, disease stability and progression, and psychological attributes. Although targeted agents and immunotherapy are common therapies today, data on their side effects and health‐related quality of life remain limited. Literature gaps included a lack of racially diverse samples, an absence of data on protective factors, and limited insights into symptom experience with novel therapies.

Conclusions

Physical and psychological symptoms were still the major influencing factors. Clinicians should prioritise symptom management in women. Future research is needed to increase racial diversity in the study and explore novel agents related to symptoms and protective factors that may improve health‐related quality of life.

Impact

Women with metastatic breast cancer experience compromised health‐related quality of life. Understanding which factors influence their quality of life, particularly those on novel therapies is critical for providing high‐quality, individualised care and developing targeted interventions to improve their well‐being.

Reporting Method

PRISMA.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This integrative review does not need patient or public contribution.
Patients' Ability to Self‐Manage Their Surgical Wound to Prevent Wound Complications: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Groenen Hannah , Bontekoning Nathan , Van Dieren Susan , Orsini Ricardo G. , Boermeester Marja A. , Tobiano Georgia , Eskes Anne M.
Published: November 2024

Aims

To provide insights into postdischarge patients' experiences and preferences regarding surgical wound care education at discharge in the Netherlands.

Background

Patient involvement in wound care practices postdischarge is beneficial for the prevention of surgical site infections and has become an essential component in reducing the burden on healthcare systems. Surgical wound care discharge education is crucial to achieve this.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted using the 18‐item Surgical Wounds And Patient Participation Questionnaire on patients who underwent surgery between January and May 2022. The survey was administered 2 weeks postoperatively.

Results

In total, 213 patients completed the survey. Most patients preferred verbal instructions about their surgical wound care (n = 146; 84.9%) at the time of discharge, with 52.3% indicating a preference for multiple forms of information. Approximately three‐quarters of patients (n = 99; 76.7%) responded that they were able to successfully take care of their wounds at home and 16.3% indicated wound self‐care inability.

Conclusion

Our study highlighted patients' preferences for verbal instructions about their surgical wound care at the time of discharge. Notably, half of the patients expressed a desire for multiple forms of information. Furthermore, we identified gaps in the information provided to patients, indicating areas for improvement in discharge communication.

Implications

The identified gaps in surgical wound care discharge education offer opportunities to enhance in‐hospital education by aligning it more closely with patient preferences and providing education of topics often missed. This could ultimately improve their ability to self‐manage their surgical wound at home. Future research should delve deeper into understanding the factors influencing patients' ability to self‐manage their wounds.

Impact

Despite the acknowledged importance of patient education on surgical wound care, there is limited literature regarding patients' experiences and preferences in this area.

The findings of this study highlight patients' preferences for verbal instructions and reveal gaps in the information provided to patients about surgical wound care at the time of discharge.

The identified gaps in information provided to surgical patients offer opportunities to enhance in‐hospital education by healthcare professionals.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the STROBE guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Obesity, aldosterone excess, and mineralocorticoid receptor activation: Parallel or intersected circumstances?
Authors: Puzantian Houry , Townsend Raymond , Bansal Shweta
Published: November 2024

The obesity pandemic, with its associated comorbidities of hypertension and diabetes, constitutes a global public health issue. Importantly, there is an increasing prevalence of aldosterone excess related to obesity and resultant poor health outcomes. Nevertheless, the association between aldosterone and obesity still needs to be clarified. In this review, the authors discuss the role of white adipose tissue in linking obesity, aldosterone excess, and hypertension. The consequences of aldosterone excess in obesity are presented as genomic, non‐genomic, and non‐epithelial effects. Moreover, the authors emphasize the value of interference with aldosterone pathophysiology (as with mineralocorticoid antagonists) in obesity, thus reducing the adverse clinical impact of aldosterone in myocardial infarction, heart failure, kidney dysfunction, and associated mortality.
HBSP inhibits tubular cell pyroptosis and apoptosis, promotes macrophage M2 polarization, and protects LPS‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Huang Lili , Wu Yuanyuan , Sai Wenli , Wang Yanan , Feng Guijuan , Lu Yuqing , Chen Fei , Huang Xinzhong , Zhao Hongsheng , Gu Zhifeng , Yang Bin
Published: November 2024

Sepsis‐associated acute kidney injury (AKI) has high morbidity and mortality, but without cause‐specific treatment. Erythropoietin derived Helix B surface peptide (HBSP) alleviates AKI, whereas its underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored. Here, the effects of HBSP on pyroptosis, apoptosis, macrophage polarization and repair were investigated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced AKI mouse model and cultured kidney epithelial cells. Systemic inflammation, compromised renal function and histology were demonstrated in LPS‐treated mice, with upregulated pyroptotic and apoptotic key proteins in the kidneys including GSDMD‐N, cleaved IL‐1β, IL‐18 and caspase‐3. These proteins were localized in tubular areas and colocalized with aquaporin‐1 (AQP1), with increased F4/80+ M1 macrophages. However, HBSP mitigated pyroptosis, apoptosis and inflammation, and promoted macrophage M2 polarization. In addition, HMGB1 and erythropoietin receptor (EPOR) were increased by LPS and decreased by HBSP, both of which were positively correlated with pyroptotic and apoptotic proteins. Moreover, HBSP reduced TNF‐α and IL‐6 mRNA levels, as well as pyroptosis and apoptosis in LPS‐stimulated TCMK‐1 cells. In conclusion, HBSP inhibited tubular pyroptosis and apoptosis, EPOR expression, promoted macrophage M2 polarization, and protected against LPS‐induced AKI. These findings provide new mechanistic insights into the renoprotection of HBSP, and facilitate its potential for clinical applications and therapeutic strategies in sepsis‐associated AKI.
‘You Know, This Conference Has No Legitimacy’: Eurosceptic Contestation of the Conference on the Future of Europe
Authors: Kotýnek Krotký Jan
Published: November 2024

Amid the escalating contestation of European integration, the European Union (EU) endeavours participatory innovations to bridge the gap between EU institutions and citizens whilst addressing the challenges posed by Eurosceptic actors. This article builds on empowering dissensus, arguing that Eurosceptic contestation might strengthen EU integration by making EU issues a matter of discussion in the European public sphere. It expands its application beyond policy contestation to polity contestation. The article examines the Eurosceptic discourse surrounding the Conference on the Future of Europe (CoFoE), a pioneering deliberative attempt to bring citizens closer to EU institutions. Employing thematic analysis of various documents produced by Eurosceptic political groups, the article reveals two predominant themes through which these groups challenged the legitimacy of the CoFoE: manipulative governance and lack of representativity. These themes closely align with academic assessments and reinforce the Eurosceptic narrative of an ‘elite cartel’ governing the EU.
A Geoeconomic Fix? European Industrial Policy on Semiconductors Amidst Global Competition
Authors: Ruck Jan
Published: November 2024

This article observes that state actors in the emerging geoeconomic order are increasingly intervening in value chains that are politically regarded as strategic, with the aim of anchoring production capacities in their own territory. Drawing on David Harvey's concept of the ‘spatial fix’ and modifying it for the geoeconomic constellation, the article describes this phenomenon as a ‘geoeconomic fix’. However, this geoeconomic fix can only be achieved in co‐operation with industrial actors that possess strategic capabilities and technological know‐how. In a case study of European semiconductor policy from 2012 to 2023, the contribution traces changes in European industrial policy. Using process tracing, the article analyses key documents and statements from European Union (EU) institutions and industry actors. The results demonstrate that the geoeconomization of European semiconductor policy is accompanied by an increasing political focus on the spatial reorganization of the semiconductor value chain. The European semiconductor industry is driving this geoeconomization.
Retention of blue‐green cryptophyte organelles by Mesodinium rubrum and their effects on photophysiology and growth
Authors: Moeller Holly V. , L'Etoile‐Goga Amelie , Vincenzi Lucas , Norlin Andreas , Barbaglia Gina S. , Runte Gabriel C. , Kaare‐Rasmussen Jonatan T. , Johnson Matthew D.
Published: November 2024

As chloroplast‐stealing or “kleptoplastidic” lineages become more reliant on stolen machinery, they also tend to become more specialized on the prey from which they acquire this machinery. For example, the ciliate Mesodinium rubrum obtains > 95% of its carbon from photosynthesis, and specializes on plastids from the Teleaulax clade of cryptophytes. However, M. rubrum is sometimes observed in nature containing plastids from other cryptophyte species. Here, we report on substantial ingestion of the blue‐green cryptophyte Hemiselmis pacifica by M. rubrum, leading to organelle retention and transient increases in M. rubrum's growth rate. However, microscopy data suggest that H. pacifica organelles do not experience the same rearrangement and integration as Teleaulax amphioxeia's. We measured M. rubrum's functional response, quantified the magnitude and duration of growth benefits, and estimated kleptoplastid photosynthetic rates. Our results suggest that a lack of discrimination between H. pacifica and the preferred prey T. amphioxeia (perhaps due to similarities in cryptophyte size and swimming behavior) may result in H. pacifica ingestion Thus, while blue‐green cryptophytes may represent a negligible prey source in natural environments, they may help M. rubrum survive when Teleaulax are unavailable. Furthermore, these results represent a useful tool for manipulating M. rubrum's cell biology and photophysiology.
Morphometric synthesis of Pollimyrus (Teleostei, Mormyridae) with the description of four new species
Authors: Dierickx Katrien , Wamuini Lunkayilakio Soleil , Bills Roger , Vreven Emmanuel
Published: November 2024

Mormyridae, a species‐rich family endemic to Africa, remains taxonomically understudied. This has been the case for the genus Pollimyrus Taverne, 1971, which hinders further understanding of the distribution, ecology, and conservation of its species. Therefore, an in‐depth morphometric comparison of all currently valid species is carried out using most of the available type specimens. Species delineations were re‐evaluated, and four species new to science described: Pollimyrus ibalazambai sp. nov. (the Luki River, the Democratic Republic of the Congo), Pollimyrus krameri sp. nov. (the Lugenda River, Mozambique), Pollimyrus vanneeri sp. nov. (the Kouilou‐Niari River, the Republic of the Congo), and Pollimyrus weyli sp. nov. (the Buzi River, Mozambique). In this study, Pollimyrus guttatus is confirmed to belong to Pollimyrus, whereas Pollimyrus eburneensis and Cyphomyrus plagiostoma seem more similar to species allocated to other genera. No or only little morphological differences were found between the type series of several species, which could indicate the need for synonymization of these species (Pollimyrus cuandoensis with Pollimyrus marianne and Pollimyrus nigripinnis with Pollimyrus pulverulentus). As such 20 species are currently morphologically identifiable in the genus Pollimyrus. The present study highlights the critical need for further synthetic efforts and new collecting efforts across Africa for this and other Mormyridae genera.
Influence of Lifestyles on Polyp Burden and Cancer Development in Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes
Authors: Hyun Hye Kyung , Park Ji Soo , Park Jihye , Park Soo Jung , Park Jae Jun , Cheon Jae Hee , Kim Tae Il
Published: November 2024

Background

Whether the progression of precursor lesions or the occurrence of cancer is influenced by lifestyle factors in carriers of genetic mutations has not been fully investigated, especially in Asian patients of hereditary colorectal cancer (CRC) syndrome.

Methods

Patients at a high risk of hereditary CRC were included. For polyposis CRC syndromes, colorectal polyp burden was measured using at least 60 images per colonoscopy in each patient and classified into five stages using the International Society for Gastrointestinal Hereditary Tumours staging system according to the polyp number and size. Increase in tumor burden stage for polyposis CRC syndrome and the occurrence of CRC or any cancer for Lynch syndrome were analyzed according to lifestyle factors.

Results

Ninety‐six patients with suspected hereditary polyposis CRC syndrome and 106 patients with Lynch syndrome were recruited. For polyposis CRC syndromes, multivariate analysis showed that exposure to smoking and > 100 polyps independently predicted a high risk of increased polyp burden (p = 0.008 and p = 0.012, respectively). Significant genetic mutations or phenotype of polyposis syndromes were significantly associated with an increased polyp burden. For Lynch syndrome, smokers showed to be diagnosed with CRC in younger age than never‐smokers (42.2 years vs. 49.0 years; p = 0.021), and heavy drinkers had high risk for occurrence of CRC (HR, 2.381, 95% CI, 1.338–4.236; p = 0.003) and any cancer (HR, 2.254; 95% CI, 1.334–3.806; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

The lifestyle factors (smoking and alcohol consumption) were associated with increasing precursor lesions and occurrence of cancer in patients with hereditary CRC syndrome. Lifestyle modifications may reduce the risk of hereditary CRC in carriers.
Adults With Intellectual Disabilities and Incontinence: Assessment and Toileting Issues
Authors: Finlayson Janet , Skelton Dawn A. , Ord Paul , Roche Fiona , Marshall Audrey , Butcher John , Gore Nick
Published: November 2024

Background

Urinary and bowel incontinence are more common in adults with intellectual disability (ID), compared to the general population. Little is known about their incontinence experiences and toileting issues. The aim was to learn about their experiences and toileting issues.

Method

Incontinence and toileting issues assessment was conducted with a community‐based sample of 22 adults with ID and urinary incontinence, with or without bowel incontinence. Assessment included the IPSS, ICIQ‐UI, and POTI checklists; bladder scans; and urine sample screening for presence of a urinary tract infection.

Results

The majority (19 adults, 86%) developed urinary incontinence during adulthood. Seven adults (32%) also experienced bowel incontinence, and constipation was the most commonly reported health condition (13 adults, 59%), other than urinary incontinence. Fifty per cent (11 adults) had been treated for a urinary tract infection within the previous 12 months.

Conclusion

There is an urgent need to develop accessible and reliable incontinence assessment materials with and for adults with ID and their supporters. These assessments should pay close attention to health conditions that can cause incontinence in this group and factors associated with incontinence which are more commonly experienced by adults with ID. These factors are potentially modifiable.
Prediction of respiratory failure and prolonged mechanical ventilation in Guillain‐Barré syndrome: A prospective cohort study in Bangladesh
Authors: Papri Nowshin , Doets Alex Y. , Luijten Linda , Mohammad Quazi D. , Endtz Hubert P. , Lingsma Hester F. , Jacobs Bart C. , Islam Zhahirul
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

The aim of this study is to validate and perform a region‐specific adjustment of the Erasmus GBS Respiratory Insufficiency Score (EGRIS) and identify potential predictors of prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) among Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) patients from Bangladesh.

Methods

We enrolled GBS patients from four prospective observational cohort studies conducted in Bangladesh. Accuracy of EGRIS to predict the requirement of MV in <7 days of study entry was evaluated. Model performance was assessed by discrimination (ability of the model to differentiate between patients who needed MV or not) and calibration (accuracy of absolute risk estimates). PMV was defined as duration of MV >14 days. Potential predictors for PMV were evaluated by Cox regression.

Results

A total of 594 GBS patients aged ≥6 years old were enrolled; of whom 541 patients had complete EGRIS data prior to MV and were included in validation analysis. EGRIS correctly distinguished between patients requiring MV or not in 81% pairs (AUC = 0.81). EGRIS overestimated the probability of MV than the observed probability (41% vs. 20%) which was resolved by updating of the model intercept. Inability to flex hip at day 7 of start of MV was the strongest predictor for PMV with predicted probabilities of 82%.

Interpretation

EGRIS accurately predicts the need for MV in GBS patients from Bangladesh. This study developed a region‐specific version of EGRIS and identified predictors of PMV. These findings can assist clinicians to identify patients at high risk of developing respiratory failure and requiring PMV to ensure timely intubation and tracheostomy of the patients in low resource settings.
Dorsal root ganglia CSF1+ neuronal subtypes have different impact on macrophages and microglia after spared nerve injury
Authors: Grosu Andreea Violeta , Gheorghe Roxana‐Olimpia , Filippi Alexandru , Deftu Alexandru Florian , Isler Manon , Suter Marc , Ristoiu Violeta
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Colony‐stimulating factor 1 (CSF1) is a growth factor secreted by dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons important for DRG macrophages and spinal cord (SC) microglia injury‐induced proliferation and activation, specifically released after spared nerve injury (SNI). In this study, we investigated if SNI‐induced CSF1 expression and perineuronal rings of macrophages around mouse DRG neurons vary between L3‐L5 DRG and with the neuronal type, and if the CSF1+ neuronal projections at the SC dorsal horns were associated with an increased microglial number in the corresponding laminae.

Methods

Seven days after surgery, L3‐L5 DRG as well as their corresponding segments at the SC level were collected, frozen, and cut. DRG sections were double‐immunostained using antibodies against CSF1 and NF200, CGRP or IB4, while SC sections were immunostained using a fluorescent Nissl Stain and analyzed for CX3CR1‐GFP microglia number and distribution by an in‐house ImageJ Plug‐in.

Results

Our results showed that SNI‐induced CSF1 expression was common for all subtypes of mouse DRG neurons, being responsible for attracting more resident macrophages around them in a DRG‐dependent manner, with L4 showing the stronger response and CSF1+/NF200+ neurons showing the highest incidence. Even though the total number of microglia in the SC ipsilateral dorsal horns increased after SNI, the increase at their specific laminar projection sites did not mirror the incidence of DRG neuronal subtypes among CSF1+ neurons.

Interpretation

Taken together, these results contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the connection between CSF1 and macrophage/microglia response after SNI and emphasize the importance of considering L3‐L5 DRG individually when investigating SNI‐neuropathic pain pathogenesis in mice.
Analysis of Germline and Somatic Mutation in Patients With Developmental Odontogenic Cysts Using Targeted Gene Panel
Authors: Hideshima Itsuki , Nakamura Yuriko , Onodera Shoko , Akashi Yoshihiko , Matsuzaka Kenichi , Takano Masayuki , Nomura Takeshi , Katakura Akira , Azuma Toshifumi
Published: November 2024

Background

Odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a partial manifestation of Gorlin syndrome (GS), resulting from the abnormal activation of the hedgehog signaling pathway. OKC predominantly occurs in young adults and is mostly asymptomatic at the time of initial diagnosis. As OKC is asymptomatic, GS can be challenging to diagnose in certain instances. In this study, we attempted to identify asymptomatic GS from sporadic OKC cases using a previously developed gene panel for GS.

Methods

Genomic DNA was extracted from patient samples. These DNA samples were analyzed using the AmpliSeq Custom DNA Panel (Illumina), which was specifically designed to target four previously established genes (PTCH1, PTCH2, SMO, and SUFU). Mutations from patients were predicted using tools, such as MutationTaster, CADD, and Polyphen‐2.

Results

Thirty‐one patients with OKC were included: 22 sporadic, 9 syndromic, 14 cases with dentigerous cysts, and 3 patients with orthokeratinized odontogenic cysts. One patient with sporadic OKC carried 50% genetic mutation in the cyst and blood, indicative of GS. PTCH1 mutations were found in one of the 14 patients with dentigerous cysts, 3 of the 17 first‐time sporadic cases, and all four recurrent cases. Resected OKC tissues revealed a PTCH1 mutation.

Conclusions

We found one patient with GS from those diagnosed with sporadic OKC. Our findings suggest that PTCH1 mutations are associated with postoperative recurrence of OKC, implying that hedgehog‐related gene variations may contribute to jaw cyst development and improve the prognosis of OKC.
Surgical management of a cervical oesophageal duplication cyst with tracheal communication in a dog
Authors: Costello S. , Woolford L. , Basa R. M.
Published: November 2024

Foregut duplication cysts can arise anywhere in the gastrointestinal system, leading to non‐specific clinical signs in small animals. There are few reports of foregut duplication cysts in the literature that have been managed surgically. This report describes a case of multilevel foregut duplication cysts in a dog, including a cervical oesophageal duplication cyst with tracheal communication. Surgical treatment by resection resulted in the resolution of clinical signs. No clinical evidence of recurrence was noted at 12 months post‐operatively. Surgical resection may be a feasible option for the management of foregut duplication cysts that cause clinical signs in dogs.
Growth mindset results in reduced trait attribution and more rehabilitative judicial decisions in cases of juvenile delinquency
Authors: Li Ning , Yang Shuting , Sun Xiaomin , Chu Ning , Qiao Zhihong , Zhang Qinglin
Published: November 2024

Background

With the framework of the mindset theory and previous findings in adult criminal justice, this research explores how growth mindset—the belief that personal traits are malleable—affects judicial decision‐making in juvenile justice.

Aims

We aim to examine the hypotheses that laypeople with growth mindset tend to endorse more rehabilitative motivations and decisions (H1) through reduced trait attribution (H2).

Materials and Methods

We measured (Study 1) and experimentally manipulated (Study 2) growth mindset to test H1 and H2 with samples of laypeople. Studies 3A and 3B used data from professional judges and prosecutors in China to test the generalizability. Study 4 replicated the measures from Studies 3A and 3B with a laypeople sample to facilitate cross‐sample comparisons.

Results

Studies 1 and 2 provide correlational and causal evidence, respectively, supporting both H1 and H2. However, Studies 3A and 3B did not yield significant results among judicial experts. Study 4 re‐confirmed the hypotheses in lay participants. Judges with juvenile case experience showed a weaker association between growth mindset and probation decisions compared to their less specialized peers and laypeople. A similar pattern emerged among prosecutors, though the findings were not statistically significant.

Discussion

The current research highlights growth mindset as a key belief driving public support for rehabilitative approaches in juvenile justice. Specialized judicial expertise appears to mitigate this association, suggesting a nuanced interaction between lay beliefs and judicial specialization.

Conclusion

Growth mindset of laypeople results in their reduced trait attribution and more rehabilitative judicial decisions in cases of juvenile delinquency.
Feeding Practices Used by Australian Parents of Young Children Living With Food Insecurity and Household Chaos
Authors: Nambiar Smita , Stanley Lauren , Miller Lily , Byrne Rebecca A. , Gallegos Danielle , Penny Robyn A. , Baxter Kimberley A.
Published: November 2024

Responsive feeding practices are crucial for developing healthy eating behaviours in children. However, chaotic households and financial stress may disrupt these practices. This cross‐sectional study aimed to characterise feeding practices among Australian parents experiencing financial hardship. Parents of children aged 5–35 months, who identified as experiencing financial hardship, completed an online questionnaire from October 2021 to June 2022. Validated tools gathered data on feeding practices, mealtime structure and environment, household chaos (HC), household food insecurity (HFI) and sociodemographic characteristics. Bivariate correlations and hierarchical regression assessed relationships between these variables, adjusted for parent age, education and number of children. Data from 213 parent–child dyads were analysed (97% mothers, median age = 31 years, IQR 28–36; 50% boys, median age = 12 months, IQR 8–17). Median HC score was 4 (IQR 2–7). Seventy‐six percent of families reported experiencing HFI (median = 6, IQR 3–9). Over 80% of parents often or always ate meals as a family and never or rarely engaged in ‘parent‐led’ feeding (median = 1.75, IQR 1.00–2.50), or used ‘(non)‐food as reward’ (median = 1.33, IQR 1.00–2.00). ‘(Non)‐food as reward’ was positively correlated with HC (p = 0.016), and ‘food to calm’ was positively associated with HC (p = 0.004). ‘Feeding on demand’ was negatively associated with HC and HFI (p = 0.002). ‘Persuasive feeding’ was not associated with either. Findings suggest that HC had more influence than HFI on some nonresponsive feeding practices. Increasing levels of HC and HFI may result in less structured mealtimes. Interventions must consider how financial hardship, HFI and HC can impact parents' ability to engage in responsive feeding practices. This cross‐sectional study examined feeding practices among Australian parents facing financial hardship. Over 75% were food insecure. While the meal environment supported responsive feeding, increasing household chaos and food insecurity led to fewer structured mealtimes and household chaos increased coercive practices such as using (non)‐food rewards and food to calm.
Allocation and use of body energy reservoirs in striped dolphins and Blainville's beaked whales: Snowball effect in negative energetic balance
Authors: Bernaldo de Quirós Yara , Arregui Marina , Arbelo Manuel , Castro‐Alonso Ayoze , Câmara Nakita , Clayton Zachary S. , Consoli Francesco M. A. , Fahlman Andreas , Palomino‐Schätzlein Martina , Puig‐Lozano Raquel , Rivero Miguel A. , Sierra Eva , Suárez‐Santana Cristian M. , Tejedor Marisa , Fernández Antonio
Published: November 2024

Climate change, overfishing, and other anthropogenic activities can negatively impact the energetic balance and body condition of cetaceans. Still, cetaceans must meet their energetic demands for survival, which are more expensive to maintain in the marine environment. The resilience of cetaceans to negative energy balance periods is unknown. We analyzed where striped dolphins, a medium‐sized dolphin with shallow‐intermediate diving habits, and Blainville's beaked whales, a larger odontocete with an extreme diving profile, store their energy reserves and how they use that energy. We performed dissections of body mass compartments of fresh dead adults of similar total body lengths but different body masses, determined the lipid and protein content of blubber and muscle, and calculated oxygen stores and the aerobic dive limit. Proteins in muscle were the largest source of energy stores for both species, followed by lipids in the blubber and muscle. Both species catabolized blubber and muscle simultaneously when losing body mass to avoid impairing other important functions. When these functions are impaired, a cascade of increased field metabolic rate and decreased energy intake may occur, decreasing their resilience to environmental challenges and making them more susceptible to diseases, ultimately resulting in death by starvation.
Acoustic richness and composition changes of humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) songs on breeding grounds off the coast of Ecuador
Authors: Oña Javier , Denkinger Judith , Schall Elena
Published: November 2024

Song evolution and revolution events recorded through time are typical cultural features for humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) populations worldwide. However, it is unknown if song dynamics are equivalent among subpopulations or breeding stocks of the South Pacific Ocean. To contribute to the understanding of the temporal song dynamics of humpback whale song off the coast of Ecuador, we analyzed acoustic richness and repertoire composition based on unit, phrase, and song composition over consecutive breeding seasons from 2012 to 2019. We observed incomplete song revolutions (all themes were replaced except one) and a nonsignificant variation in the acoustic richness during the study period. Our results show that over the years, humpback whale singers incorporate acoustic material from different subpopulations such as Central South Pacific (French Polynesia) and western South Atlantic (Brazil) into their song repertoire. The temporal acoustic contact of different subpopulations migrating through the eastern South Pacific may be reflected in their particular acoustic richness and temporal evolution. Off the coast of Ecuador, humpback whale song patterns point towards an alternative scenario of song evolution, indicating how cultural transmission among subpopulations can alter the song patterns in specific breeding grounds due lack of geographical barriers surrounding the southeastern Pacific region.
When the Patriarch of Moscow Blesses a War: The Russian World and the Sacralization of Violence
Authors: Gavrilyuk Paul L.
Published: November 2024

The article explains that the ideology that fuels Russia's war against Ukraine was produced within the bosom of the Russian Orthodox Church and had Kirill Gundiaev, the Patriarch of Moscow, as its major proponent. The ideology of the so‐called “Russian World” denies to the Ukrainian state a right to independent existence. This ideology also postulates a clash of civilizations between the Holy Rus’ as a defender of the traditional Christian values and the secular West. The most recent pro‐war statements of Patriarch Kirill are analyzed in light of this dichotomy.
Credit and blame for AI–generated content: Effects of personalization in four countries
Authors: Earp Brian D. , Porsdam Mann Sebastian , Liu Peng , Hannikainen Ivar , Khan Maryam Ali , Chu Yueying , Savulescu Julian
Published: November 2024

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) raises ethical questions concerning moral and legal responsibility—specifically, the attributions of credit and blame for AI‐generated content. For example, if a human invests minimal skill or effort to produce a beneficial output with an AI tool, can the human still take credit? How does the answer change if the AI has been personalized (i.e., fine‐tuned) on previous outputs produced without AI assistance by the same human? We conducted a preregistered experiment with representative sampling (N = 1802) repeated in four countries (United States, United Kingdom, China, and Singapore). We investigated laypeople's attributions of credit and blame to human users for producing beneficial or harmful outputs with a standard large language model (LLM), a personalized LLM, or no AI assistance (control condition). Participants generally attributed more credit to human users of personalized versus standard LLMs for beneficial outputs, whereas LLM type did not significantly affect blame attributions for harmful outputs, with a partial exception among Chinese participants. In addition, UK participants attributed more blame for using any type of LLM versus no LLM. Practical, ethical, and policy implications of these findings are discussed.
Circulating triacylglycerides influence egg‐to‐adult viability in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Aslam Ayesha , Javed Urooj , Hussain Mushtaq
Published: November 2024

Triacylglycerides (TAGs) are neutral lipids and are one of the major energy storage forms in an insect aiding in normal physiology including reproduction of the organism. Importance of TAG metabolism in gametogenesis has been investigated in insects like mosquitoes, silkworm and Drosophila. However, a direct association between TAG levels and egg‐to‐adult viability has not been explored. In this study, we have assessed both stored and circulating TAG levels and egg‐to‐adult viability in Drosophila melanogaster lines with varying genetic backgrounds established through inbreeding and recombinant inbreeding strategies. We found noticeable variation in egg‐to‐adult viability and in both stored and circulating TAG levels in D. melanogaster lines. Apparently the D. melanogaster lines with higher levels of circulating TAG also had a higher egg‐to‐adult viability. To validate this, analysis of these variations through supervised correlation and unsupervised K‐means clustering showed that levels of circulating TAG are positively associated with egg‐to‐adult viability irrespective of gender. The findings suggest that levels of circulating TAG promotes successful transition of egg to an adult. Taken together, the findings not only have a potential application in husbandry of ecologically and economically important insects but also holds importance in translational research in fertility of vertebrates including humans.
Unlocking the Potential of Big Data: Establishing System Trust Through Open Innovation Ecosystems
Authors: Moradi Mahdis , Hepsø Vidar
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the vital role of system trust in big data and the advantages of open innovation ecosystems to develop trust‐enhancing technologies and foster system trust in relation to big data. Based on 3 years of empirical data from the oil and gas industry, we have performed a detailed analysis of the dynamic nature of big data‐centred innovation ecosystems. Our study has revealed that access to trusted big data is instrumental for overcoming the technical, legal and practise‐related challenges of creating value from big data. The findings contribute to system trust and innovation ecosystems, by demonstrating how the Open Subsurface Data Universe (OSDU) innovation ecosystem has employed legitimacy building, institutionalisation and innovation dissemination throughout its evolution to establish and maintain system trust in big data. For managers, this study offers important insights into the various strategies needed to create value from big data.