bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal effects and safety between Asian and non‐Asian chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes treated with nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid antagonists
Authors: Xu Xiaoming , Feng Jing , Cui Yuying , Li Pingjiang , Dong Jianjun , Liao Lin
Published: May 2024

Background

Asians bear a heavier burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a common comorbidity of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), than non‐Asians. Nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) have garnered attention for their potential advantages in renal outcomes. Nevertheless, the impact on diverse ethnic groups remains unknown.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang database, and clinical trial registries were searched through August 2023 with the following keywords: nonsteroidal MRAs (finerenone, apararenone, esaxerenone, AZD9977, KBP‐5074), CKD, T2DM, and randomized controlled trial (RCT). A random effects model was used to calculate overall effect sizes.

Results

Seven RCTs with 14 997 participants were enrolled. Nonsteroidal MRAs reduced urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) significantly more in Asians than non‐Asians: (weighted mean difference [WMD], −0.59, 95% CI, −0.73 to −0.45, p < .01) vs (WMD, −0.29, 95% CI, −0.32 to −0.27, p < .01), respectively. The average decline of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was similar in Asians and non‐Asians (p > .05). Regarding systolic blood pressure (SBP), nonsteroidal MRAs had a better antihypertension performance in Asians (WMD, −5.12, 95% CI, −5.84 to −4.41, p < .01) compared to non‐Asians (WMD, −3.64, 95% CI, −4.38 to −2.89, p < .01). A higher incidence of hyperkalemia and eGFR decrease ≥30% was found in Asians than non‐Asians (p < .01).

Conclusions

Nonsteroidal MRAs exhibited significant renal benefits by decreasing UACR and lowering SBP in Asian than that of non‐Asian patients with CKD and T2DM, without increase of adverse events except hyperkalemia and eGFR decrease ≥30%.

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Performance of an ancillary test for cervical cancer that measures miRNAs and cytokines in serum and cervical mucus
Authors: Fujii Takuma , Nishio Eiji , Tsukamoto Tetsuya , Kukimoto Iwao , Iwata Aya
Published: May 2024

Currently, human papillomavirus tests and cytology are used to screen for cervical cancer. However, more accurate ancillary screening tests are needed. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and cytokines are promising biomarkers that are aberrantly expressed in cervical cancer. Therefore, the potential of developing new screening markers based on the levels of miRNAs and cytokines in serum and local mucus samples from the same patients with cervical neoplasia was investigated. miRNA screening was performed by microarray and measurement using real‐time reverse‐transcriptase PCR. Cytokine were measured using multiplex bead assay, and changes in expressions were analyzed based on disease severity. As lesions progressed, miR‐20b‐5p, −155‐5p, −144‐3p, −451a, and −126‐3p expression levels were increased in mucus, and miR‐16‐5p, −223‐3p, and ‐451a expression levels were decreased in serum. Regarding cytokines, IL‐6, IL‐8, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, Eotaxin, interferon‐γ, and RANTES were increased, whereas granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) was significantly decreased in mucus. miRNAs and cytokines in serum did not have high diagnostic accuracy. However, a combination of miR‐20b‐5p, ‐451a, ‐126‐3p, Eotaxin, as well as G‐CSF in mucus samples, had high diagnostic accuracy with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.989 (0.979–0.999). Our results suggest that using mucus for this ancillary test is more beneficial than serum.
‘We Hold on and Have Patience’: Perspectives and Experiences of Migrant Fathers in Belgian Asylum Centres
Authors: Linthout Leni , Keygnaert Ines , Benbouriche Massil , Desombre Caroline , Derluyn Ilse
Published: May 2024

On arrival in the European Union, most migrants who apply for asylum stay often for extended periods of time in asylum centres, putting parenting practices under pressure. Despite an increased interest in the functioning of migrant families, the perspectives of migrant fathers remain marginalized in practice, policy, and scientific research. Very little is known about how migration impacts fathering practices and how migrant fathers may best be supported in their parental role, especially in unique parenthood contexts such as when residing in an asylum centre. This paper aims to explore migrant fathers' parental practices, experiences, and perspectives while raising their children in an asylum centre in Belgium. Semi‐structured interviews with 21 fathers in asylum centres were conducted. The findings were thematically analysed. The analysis shows that staying in an asylum centre challenged fathers' ability to fulfil paternal tasks and responsibilities such as ensuring safe accommodation, providing food, fulfilling material needs, and bringing their children to school. Different coping strategies such as seeking (in)formal support and problem‐solving were expressed to answer the daily challenges and resist existing reception structures. For most fathers, the roles of provider and protector were the most important. We argue that migrants' unique voices, experiences, and understandings remain left unheard in the organization and the practical implementation of asylum reception initiatives, limiting support for fathers in these institutions and hindering the enjoyment of their roles as fathers during adverse and stressful periods.
Metastases to the parotid glands: An institutional experience
Authors: Calo Lea , Alboni Tiziana , Bruno Carmine , Policardo Federica , Feraco Angela , Tralongo Pietro , Vegni Federica , Mulè Antonio , Brigato Francesca , Rossi Giorgia , Bussu Francesco , Pantanowitz Liron , Galli Jacopo , Rossi Esther Diana
Published: May 2024

Background

Metastatic lesions to the salivary gland are rare and mostly affect the parotids. Metastases represent 8% of all malignant lesions of the parotid gland. Around 80% originate from squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) of the head and neck region. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) plays a crucial role in distinguishing primary salivary gland lesions from metastases. Herein we describe our series of metastases to the parotid glands.

Materials and Methods

We analysed 630 parotid gland FNAs over a decade including conventional and liquid‐based cytology specimens. Ancillary techniques such as immunocytochemistry (ICC) were conducted on cell blocks.

Results

Eighty (12.4%) cases were malignant lesions, of which 53 (63.75%) were metastases including 24% melanoma, 22.6% SCC, 19% renal carcinomas, 7.5% breast carcinomas, 11.3% lung, 9% intestinal and 1.8% testicular, malignant solitary fibrous tumour and Merkel cell carcinoma. The 53 cases, classified according to the Milan system for salivary cytopathology, belonged to 5 Suspicious for malignancy (SFM) and 48 malignant (M) categories. Forty had a known history of primary malignancy (75.4%), while 13 were suspicious to be a metastatic localisation (24.5%), distributed as 5SFM (2SCC and 3Melanoma) and 8 M. A combination of clinical history, cytomorphology and ICC identified 100% of them.

Conclusions

Fine needle aspiration plays a central role in the diagnostic workup of patients with metastatic lesions to their parotid glands, thereby defining the correct management. Diagnostic accuracy may be enhanced by applying ICC. Although melanoma and SCC are the most common histological types, several other malignancies may also metastasize to the parotid glands and should be kept into consideration.
Family‐building desires among adopted adolescents with lesbian, gay, and heterosexual parents
Authors: Goldberg Abbie E. , Silvert Lea , Farr Rachel H.
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study qualitatively examined family‐building desires of diverse adopted adolescents.

Background

Research on parenting aspirations has rarely included youth with LGBTQ+ parents and/or from adoptive families. Understanding diverse adopted adolescents' feelings about parenthood may yield insights regarding identity and ideas about family.

Methods

We conducted a thematic analysis of interview data from 48 adopted adolescents (27 were LGBTQ+) in the United States, aged 13 to 18, from lesbian, gay, and heterosexual two‐parent families.

Results

Most adolescents desired future parenthood, after achieving other normative milestones, and they typically did not feel familial or societal pressure to become parents. LGBTQ+ participants showed a preference for adoption while transracially adopted adolescents preferred biological parenthood.

Conclusion

Guided by developmental approaches about identity and adoption, as well as queer family theory, we found that teenagers adopted by lesbian, gay, and heterosexual couples generally envisioned parenthood for themselves. Plans to do so varied by minoritized gender, sexual, and racial/ethnic identities. Thus, an intersectional perspective is imperative to understand youths' thoughts about family building.

Implications

Our findings reveal insights into adopted adolescents' constructed future identities. Practitioners' understanding of adopted adolescents' development and future planning may be enhanced when adolescents' perspectives are considered.
Barriers and facilitators of self‐management of diabetes amongst people experiencing socioeconomic deprivation: A systematic review and qualitative synthesis
Authors: Woodward Abi , Walters Kate , Davies Nathan , Nimmons Danielle , Protheroe Joanne , Chew‐Graham Carolyn A. , Stevenson Fiona , Armstrong Megan
Published: May 2024

Background

The number of people living with diabetes is rising worldwide and a higher prevalence of diabetes has been linked to those experiencing socioeconomic deprivation. Self‐management strategies are vital and known to reduce the risks of long‐term complications amongst people living with diabetes. Lack of knowledge about self‐care activity required to manage diabetes is a key barrier to successful self‐management. Self‐management interventions can be less effective in socioeconomically deprived populations which can increase the risk of exacerbating health inequalities. The purpose of this review is to identify and synthesise qualitative evidence on the barriers and facilitators of self‐management of diabetes amongst people who are socioeconomically disadvantaged.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, PsycINFO and CINAHL Plus were searched for qualitative studies concerning self‐management of multiple long‐term conditions amongst socioeconomically disadvantaged populations. Relevant papers which focused on diabetes were identified. Data were coded and thematically synthesised using NVivo.

Findings

From the search results, 79 qualitative studies were identified after full‐text screening and 26 studies were included in the final thematic analysis. Two overarching analytical themes were identified alongside a set of subthemes: (1) Socioeconomic barriers to diabetes self‐management; healthcare costs, financial costs of healthy eating, cultural influences, living in areas of deprivation, competing priorities and time constraints, health literacy, (2) facilitators of diabetes self‐management; lifestyle and having goals, support from healthcare providers, informal support.

Discussion

Self‐management of diabetes is challenging for people experiencing socioeconomic deprivation due to barriers associated with living in areas of deprivation and financial barriers surrounding healthcare, medication and healthy food. Support from healthcare providers can facilitate self‐management, and it is important that people with diabetes have access to interventions that are designed to be inclusive from a cultural perspective as well as affordable.

Patient or Public Contribution

A patient advisory group contributed to the research questions and interpretation of the qualitative findings by reflecting on the themes developed.
Redistribution of songbirds within a migratory stopover site as a response to sylviid warbler song playback
Authors: Lehnardt Yael , Sapir Nir
Published: May 2024

Assessing habitat quality is critical for migrating birds, with implications for fuel loading, predation risk and timing of departure. To efficiently distribute within stopover sites, migrants rely on various cues that facilitate habitat quality assessment. In this study, we conducted a playback experiment at a mid‐route stopover site to test the effects of vocal cues, specifically bird songs, on habitat redistribution during spring migration. To estimate the effect of bird songs on bird abundance we mist‐netted and ringed birds for 60 days on alternating playback treatment (playing songs of three sylviid warbler species) and no playback (control) days. A nearby site was used to control for fluctuations caused by migration waves. Overall, total bird abundance was significantly increased by the playback treatment. This increase resulted from the attraction of conspecifics (species whose songs were played) rather than of other species – sylviids or others. Correspondingly, species richness was seemingly unaffected. To investigate the relationship between internal‐state factors and the attraction to playback in the most abundantly attracted species, Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, we tested associations with age, sex and body condition index but found no significant effects, possibly because of the limited sample size. Our findings challenge established ideas regarding heterospecific attraction and contradict previous studies. Attraction to bird song is discussed in the context of geographical location, timing and internal drivers. Vocal cues, specifically bird songs, may affect micro‐habitat selection by migrating songbirds during stopovers. Consequently, we call for consideration of the influence of the acoustic environment on birds during migratory stopover in future studies, habitat management and conservation efforts.
Comparative study of luminescence in alkali‐metal‐based yttrium fluoride nanophosphor for biophotonic applications
Authors: Kaur Sumandeep , Arora Simran , Rao A. Srinivasa
Published: May 2024

Alkali‐metal‐based yttrium fluoride host (AY1‒xF4:xEu3+; A: Li/Na/K) nanophosphors were developed using co‐precipitation method. Phase analysis and emission spectral behavior were established for the said nanophosphors. The highest emission observed for NaYF4 doped with Eu3+ was then optimized to achieve maximum photoluminescence (PL) emission for varied dopant amount. The downconversion and upconversion PL studies revealed pure red emission under n‐ultraviolet and infrared excitations. The CIE coordinates are observed to be lie in the red hue of the CIE diagram. The PL decay curves reported to study lifetime of the emitting state and to identify quantum efficiency using Auzel's model for the said nanophosphor. Thermal stability was also evaluated from temperature‐sensitive luminescent spectra. The studies conducted on AYF4:.05Eu3+ (A: Li/Na/K) nanophosphors contemplates that NaYF4 nanophosphors doped with Eu3+ ions are best suited for biophotonic applications as the later one show relatively high emission.
Clinical characteristics and response to biological therapies for inverse psoriasis: a real‐life comparison between the therapeutic effects of anti‐IL‐23 and anti‐IL‐17 agents
Authors: Mastorino Luca , Dapavo Paolo , Macagno Nicole , Ortoncelli Michela , Verrone Anna , Stroppiana Elena , Cariti Caterina , Susca Sara , Siliquini Niccolò , di Corteranzo Isotta Giunipero , Quaglino Pietro , Ribero Simone
Published: May 2024

Background

Inverse psoriasis (IP) is a variant of plaque psoriasis involving flexor surfaces. A clear definition of IP is still lacking. Therapy is based on topical and systemic treatments, including classic systemic drugs and biologic agents, but a well‐defined therapeutic strategy is absent.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study investigated the general characteristics of patients with IP or vulgar psoriasis and compared the effectiveness of anti‐interleukin‐17 or anti‐interleukin‐23 agents in the same groups. Second, treatment effectiveness and the demographic characteristics of IP patients treated with IL‐23 and IL‐17 inhibitors were also compared. IP patients were included if they had specific psoriatic involvement of the axillary, inguinal, or submammary lines, breast folds, antecubital and popliteal pits, intergluteal fold, and perianal area. Patients with vulgar plaque psoriasis and concomitant intertriginous involvement were included in the vulgar psoriasis cohort.

Results

Patients with IP were prevalently female and treated with IL‐17 inhibitors compared to those with vulgar psoriasis. They also had a greater risk of drug discontinuation and subsequent therapeutical switch (32.1% vs. 18.1%, P = 0.002). At later time points, those with IP showed progressively slower achievement of PASI100 and 90 compared to the cohort with vulgar psoriasis. In the IP cohort, there was greater joint involvement in patients treated with an anti‐IL‐17 agent (P = 0.011), who also had a lower median age of onset (P = 0.011) compared to patients treated with an anti‐IL‐23 agent. Patients with IP treated with an anti‐IL‐23 agent initiated with a lower mean PASI and showed a slower response than patients on an anti‐IL‐17 agent. At later time points, progressively greater effectiveness of IL‐23 inhibitors was observed compared to IL‐17 inhibitors.

Conclusions

Patients with IP responded less to biologic agents than those with vulgar psoriasis. In the IP cohort, IL‐17 inhibitors had a faster onset than IL‐23 inhibitors, but long‐term anti‐IL‐23 agents seem to be associated with better outcomes.
Speculative foresight: A foray beyond digital transformation
Authors: Hovorka Dirk S. , Mueller Benjamin
Published: May 2024

As the discourse regarding digital transformation has developed, we see an opportunity to extend the concept of becoming digital into an as‐of‐yet unrealized future. By examining the foundational assumptions of digital transformation, we reveal two frontiers that expand the current transformation discourse into futures where their implications and outcomes will reside. A conceptual frontier suggests that we begin to conceptualise the worlds in which future organisations and people observe digital technologies and their enactments as an unexceptional and quite mundane aspect of their daily lives. We initiate conceptualising being digital as an outcome of the transformations our current research studies. A second analytic frontier embraces world‐making in current theorizations and the development of future‐leaning conceptualization of alternative worlds. Speculative foresight is an approach for staging new concepts and relationships, critiquing current research practice and theory boundaries, and creating novel and generative theorizations. An example speculative foresight scenario illustrates onto‐epistemic assumptions and ambiguities in current theories of digital transformation regarding how future ethics will be conceived. The implications and limitations of this approach are discussed in the context of the need for IS research to develop orientations that can contribute to understanding digital transformation processes and both positive and negative transformation outcomes that will constitute yet unrealized futures.
Assessing the factors that influence the utilization and delivery of rehabilitation services among persons with Parkinson's disease: A scoping review
Authors: Agoriwo Mary Wetani , Joseph Conran , Franzén Erika , Unger Marianne
Published: May 2024

Rationale

Rehabilitation has the potential to significantly improve the lives of people and, most importantly, for persons with Parkinson's disease (PD). Although numerous studies have reported the benefits of rehabilitation for persons with PD (PwPD), these services are still limited and underutilized even when patients exhibit problems that require rehabilitation.

Aims and Objectives

This review aims to describe the (a) indication for referral for rehabilitation services, (b) patterns of referral for rehabilitation and (c) factors that facilitate or hinder the utilization and delivery of rehabilitation services among PwPD.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across selected databases, African Journals Online, EBSCOhost (CINAHL, Africa‐wide), PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science. Studies published in English from January 2002 until December 2022 were applied as limiters. Reference and grey data sources tracking were also conducted. Two reviewers conducted the study selection, screening of titles, abstracts and full text and data charting. A descriptive analysis was performed. Findings were narratively presented and illustrated with tables, diagrams and descriptive formats as appropriate.

Results

Twelve studies were included in the review; however, none were from Africa. Impairments and activity limitations were the key functioning problems indicated for rehabilitation. Age, gender, income, race, disease stage, specific functioning problems, quality of life and care by a neurologist were the main predictors for referral to rehabilitation. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy were the most utilized rehabilitation services and were sometimes utilized together. The rate of rehabilitation service utilization among PwPD ranged from 0.9% to 62.5%. Lack of referrals and limited rehabilitation units/professionals were the common barriers to rehabilitation service utilization.

Conclusion

Per the studies reviewed, utilization of rehabilitation services is generally low among PwPD. Lack of referral and nonavailability of professionals are cited as barriers to access. Adequate measures are needed to improve rehabilitation services for all PwPD.
The association between probable post‐COVID‐19 condition and sleep‐related parameters: a longitudinal study of non‐hospitalised patients
Authors: Gonçalves Diogo , Costa Joana Pinto , Silva Susana , Tavares Margarida , Barros Henrique , Meireles Paula
Published: May 2024

The long‐term effects of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection on sleep remain poorly known. We evaluated the association between probable post‐COVID‐19 condition and changes in sleep quality and quantity before and after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in a consecutive sample of non‐hospitalized adults. Individuals were identified with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in 2020 at the central laboratory of a tertiary hospital in Porto and followed as outpatients. We included patients diagnosed with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection ≥3 months before this evaluation, with no missing data on key variables (n = 2445). Participants completed a questionnaire that included sociodemographic, clinical, and infection‐related questions. We computed changes in sleep‐related parameters referred to 1 month before diagnosis and 1 week before the questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression models were fitted to compute crude and adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). Compared to the pre‐infection period, those with probable post‐COVID‐19 condition reported a greater decrease in hours of sleep, had a 2.60 (95% CI 2.02–3.34) higher adjusted odds of perceiving their sleep quality as worsened and experienced a significant increase in number of days with sleeping disturbances as defined according to multiple items. The association between post‐COVID‐19 condition and indicators of poor sleep health requires special attention from healthcare professionals and services. It is essential that appropriate multidisciplinary care is provided to mitigate the physical, psychological, social, and professional impact of sleeping problems in these already burdened patients.
Description‐experience gap in choice under risk: Are emotions involved?
Authors: Gurevich Gregory
Published: May 2024

Choices made under risk appear to differ depending on whether the decision problem is presented as an explicit description or experienced by subjects through a series of choices and outcomes. The difference, labeled the description‐experience gap (DEG), has attracted a fair amount of attention and generated a substantial body of research. Alongside important insights gained, noticeably (and puzzlingly) absent from this literature are emotions – a feature more pertinent to actual experience than to mere description of events, thus potentially a source of difference in decisions observed in these two conditions. Even though emotions are considered a hallmark of experience, existing studies concerned with various aspects of DEG do not seem to address this facet of the question. This paper suggests the possibility that emotions comprise an important factor contributing to DEG. Theoretical considerations and relevant empirical evidence of decision‐making guided by emotions are reviewed to support the proposed hypothesis. General perspective, directions for future research, and possible caveats are discussed.
Pharmacokinetics of N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine in chickens
Authors: Roydeva Albena , Beleva Gabriela , Gadzhakov Daniel , Milanova Aneliya
Published: May 2024

N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC) has been suggested as an antioxidant that can alleviate the negative effects of stress conditions in broilers. However, knowledge of its pharmacokinetics (PK) in this avian species is very limited. Therefore, the study aimed to shed more light on the PK properties of NAC in chickens. Broilers were subjected to single intravenous (i.v.) or oral (p.o.) treatment or multiple NAC administrations via the feed. Drug concentrations were determined by LC–MS/MS, and the data were subjected to non‐compartmental analysis and modeled by non‐linear mixed effect approach. NAC was eliminated in a short time after i.v. treatment, with a t
1/2el of 0.93 (0.59–2.09) h. It showed limited distribution with population mean of volumes of distribution in the central and peripheral compartments V
1 of 0.148 L/kg and V
2 of 0.199 L/kg, respectively, and V
darea of 0.39 (0.258–0.635) L/kg. The value of MRT was 1.76 h (range of 0.96–2.69, p < .05) after single p.o. treatment, indicating a twofold increase if compared to i.v. administration (0.87 h, 0.55–1.78). Both methods of Pk analysis revealed very limited bioavailability, <10%. Feeding behavior led to a later achievement of lower maximum plasma concentrations (5.74, range of 3.44–9.32 μg/mL, p < .05), which were maintained during the 5 days of treatment.
Reconstructing thicket clump formation using association rules analysis
Authors: Nell Rhys , Pillay Tiffany , Vetter Susanne
Published: May 2024

Aim

Vegetation change such as woody encroachment is characterised by changing species interactions, and processes such as competition and facilitation may be inferred from patterns of association between juveniles and mature individuals of different species. Our aim was to apply and evaluate association rules analysis (ARA), a rule‐based data‐mining technique more commonly known as market basket analysis, as a novel tool to examine the associations between woody species in different demographic stages along a thicket encroachment gradient.

Location

The research was conducted in a subtropical thicket–savanna mosaic (730 mm mean annual rainfall) in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

Methods

We used a space‐for‐time substitution approach and sampled woody plants in different size classes at sites representing early, intermediate and late stages of encroachment. All individuals were recorded as occurring singly or in unique clumps. We used ARA to determine which associations between species in different size classes were common overall, and more common than expected, at each of the three encroachment stages.

Results

The most important association rules indicated that Vachellia karroo recruited singly and in large numbers in open grassland and, once mature, provided nucleation sites for a small suite of species dominated by Scutia myrtina. In the later stages, multiple diverse associations were found in increasingly large clumps.

Conclusions

Our sampling approach and ARA proved useful for characterising common species‐size class associations, illuminating changing species interactions and recruitment patterns along a thicket clump formation sequence. In studies of vegetation change, ARA can complement multivariate analyses of species composition to reveal specific associations, and it can provide a less laborious alternative to point‐pattern analysis for elucidating spatial associations.
Review of current best practices for human milk banking
Authors: Unger Sharon L. , O'Connor Deborah L.
Published: May 2024

Mother's/parent milk is the optimal way to feed infants and when unavailable, supplemental donor human milk is preferred. A safe supply of donor human milk should be available for all low birthweight infants for whom it has been shown to reduce morbidity. Human milk banking has been in existence for more than a century, although largely shut down during the 1980s, primarily due to fears of human immunodeficiency virus transmission. With renewed security in milk banking, has come an exponential growth in human donor milk use. Guidelines for milk banking have been published in many countries including Australia, France, India, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the nonprofit organization PATH. The European Milk Bank Association and the Human Milk Banking Association of North America have also published recommendations for milk banks throughout Europe and North America, respectively. Although there is variability among these guidelines, there is general consensus on quality control measures required to provide a supply of safe donor milk. These measures include effective donor screening, safe collection, transport and storage of milk, standardized pasteurization and bacteriological testing. Operational considerations are also critical, such as appropriate training for staff, equipment maintenance and cleaning, protocol and record keeping and inspection and accreditation. Clearly delineating these key quality control measures provides an excellent foundation for establishing international guidelines. Acceptable modifications must be established for low‐ and middle‐income countries that do not have sufficient resources; overly burdensome guidelines may make establishing a milk bank unnecessarily prohibitive. This review presents a summary of current best practices for human milk banking.
Consistent community assembly but contingent species pool effects drive β‐diversity patterns of multiple microbial groups in desert biocrust systems
Authors: Xu Lin , Li Xiangzhen , Tang Xin , Kou Yongping , Li Chaonan , Li Jiabao , Yao Minjie , Zhang Bingchang , Wang Lixia , Xu Hongwei , You Chengming , Li Han , Liu Sining , Zhang Li , Liu Yang , Huang Xiong , Tu Lihua , Tan Bo , Xu Zhenfeng
Published: May 2024

One of the key goals of ecology is to understand how communities are assembled. The species co‐existence theory suggests that community β‐diversity is influenced by species pool and community assembly processes, such as environmental filtering, dispersal events, ecological drift and biotic interactions. However, it remains unclear whether there are similar β‐diversity patterns among different soil microbial groups and whether all these mechanisms play significant roles in mediating β‐diversity patterns. By conducting a broad survey across Chinese deserts, we aimed to address these questions by investing biological soil crusts (biocrusts). Through amplicon‐sequencing, we acquired β‐diversity data for multiple microbial groups, that is, soil total bacteria, diazotrophs, phoD‐harbouring taxa, and fungi. Our results have shown varying distance decay rates of β‐diversity across microbial groups, with soil total bacteria showing a weaker distance‐decay relationship than other groups. The impact of the species pool on community β‐diversity varied across microbial groups, with soil total bacteria and diazotrophs being significantly influenced. While the contributions of specific assembly processes to community β‐diversity patterns varied among different microbial groups, significant effects of local community assembly processes on β‐diversity patterns were consistently observed across all groups. Homogenous selection and dispersal limitation emerged as crucial processes for all groups. Precipitation and soil C:P were the key factors mediating β‐diversity for all groups. This study has substantially advanced our understanding of how the communities of multiple microbial groups are structured in desert biocrust systems.
Nurses' satisfaction with an educational web application to prevent transmission of multidrug‐resistant organisms
Authors: Viseskul Nongkran , Kasatpibal Nongyao , Kaewsakol Cholphattha , Kunkhet Arus , Viriyachetkun Sittiporn , Turale Sue
Published: May 2024

Multidrug‐resistant organism infections are a serious health problem globally, and can result in patient mortality and morbidity. In this descriptive study, we produced the first web application for transmission prevention specific to the situation based on nursing experience, knowledge, and practice guidelines and to evaluate web application satisfaction among Thai nurses. The sample comprised 282 Thai registered nurses experienced in caring for patients with multidrug‐resistant organisms in a tertiary hospital. A demographic form and knowledge test were completed anonymously online. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The application emphasized crucial topics for which participants had low preliminary knowledge and included tutorial sessions, pictures, video clips, drills, and a post‐test. The application was piloted with a random sample of 30 nurses, and an instrument tested their satisfaction with this. Results revealed that preliminary knowledge scores for preventing transmission were moderate, and participants were highly satisfied with the application. Findings suggest the application is suitable for Thai nurses and could be applied to nursing practice elsewhere. However, further testing is recommended before implementing it into nursing practice.
Pilot study for three‐dimensional cephalometric Enlow's counterpart analysis: Vertical track. Two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional comparison
Authors: D'Attilio Michele , Falone Giulia , Pipitone Rossana , Moscagiuri Francesco , Caroccia Francesco , Peluso Antonino
Published: May 2024

Structured Abstract

Background

The introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in dentistry has given orthodontists the possibility of studying craniofacial structures in three dimensions. Despite the possibility to obtain lateral cephalograms synthesized from CBCT, this approach still does not provide a fully three‐dimensional evaluation of the patient's anatomy. While there has been some success in adapting traditional two‐dimensional cephalometric analyses to three dimensions, the specific application of Enlow's cephalometric analysis using CBCT remains unexplored.

Aim

This pilot study aims to introduce a novel approach for performing Enlow's vertical track analysis using CBCT images.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen CBCT images of skeletal Class I (ANB = 2 ± 2) subjects (12 males and 6 females, aged from 9 to 19 years) with no history of previous orthodontic treatment were selected. For each subject, 2D Enlow's vertical track analysis was performed on lateral cephalograms extracted from the CBCT images, and separately, 3D vertical track analysis was directly performed on the CBCT images. To validate the proposed method, we compared the differences between the posterior vertical counterpart (PVC) and the middle vertical counterpart (MVC), as well as between the middle vertical counterpart (MVC) and the anterior vertical counterpart (AVC), as obtained from both the two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional analyses. The Kolmogorov‐Smirnov normality test was applied for each variable to check whether data were normally distributed and a paired Student's t‐test was performed. The level of statistical significance was .05.

Results

The comparison between three‐dimensional PVC‐MVC (−0.43 ± 0.37 cm) and two‐dimensional PVC‐MVC (−0.53 ± 0.36 cm) revealed no statistical difference (P = .27). Similarly, no significant difference (P = .28) was observed between two‐dimensional MVC‐AVC (−0.56 ± 0.34 cm) and three‐dimensional MVC‐AVC (−0.47 ± 0.37 cm).

Conclusions

The method proposed by this study to realize the vertical track analysis on 3D images is valid and superimposable on that described by Enlow on lateral cephalograms.
Less Acetabular Coverage Predicts the Failure of Core Decompression for Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Kai , Zeng Yi , Zhang Qingyi , Tan Jie , Li Hexi , Yang Jing , Xie Huiqi , Shen Bin
Published: May 2024

Objective

It is unclear whether less acetabular coverage is associated with the failure of core decompression (CD) for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of CD for ONFH with small‐ or medium‐sized pre‐collapse lesions, and determine what factors, especially acetabular anatomical parameters, predict the failure of CD.

Methods

Between January 2010 and December 2022, we retrospectively reviewed 269 consecutive CDs in 188 patients diagnosed with ONFH with small‐ or medium‐sized pre‐collapse lesions. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to evaluate the survival rate of CD for ONFH with progression of collapse or conversion to total hip arthroplasty (THA) as the endpoint. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the potential risk factors for the failure of CD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was further performed with conversion to THA as the endpoint to determine the predictive value of these factors.

Results

The overall 5‐year survival rate of CD for ONFH with small‐ or medium‐sized pre‐collapse lesions was 74.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 69.0%–81.1%) with progression of collapse as the endpoint and 83.9% (95% CI 79.3%–88.7%) with conversion to THA as the endpoint. Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that bilateral affected hips was significantly associated with progression of collapse, and center‐edge angle (CEA), sharp angle, acetabular head index (AHI), as well as acetabular depth ratio (ADR) were significantly associated with both progression of collapse and conversion to THA. Multivariate logistic regression analysis further indicated that CEA and AHI were independent risk factors for both progression of collapse and conversion to THA. ROC curve analysis with conversion to THA as the endpoint revealed that the cutoff values for CEA and AHI were 26.8° (sensitivity = 74.4%, specificity = 78.6%, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.809) and 79.8 (sensitivity = 78.4%, specificity = 73.8%, AUC = 0.818), respectively.

Conclusions

CD showed satisfactory clinical outcomes for ONFH with small‐ or medium‐sized pre‐collapse lesions where less acetabular coverage with a CEA < 26.8° or AHI < 79.8 was identified as an independent risk factor for the failure of CD.
Morality in romantic relationships: The role of moral disengagement in relationship satisfaction, definitions of infidelity, and committed cheating
Authors: Aignesberger Verena , Greitemeyer Tobias
Published: May 2024

Despite the moral condemnation of infidelity in romantic relationships, its prevalence remains widespread. This might be partly explained by moral disengagement (MD), the ability to decouple one's actions from internalized moral standards. While social influences are an inherent part of the conceptualization of MD, they have not been studied in romantic couples. We investigated connections between MD and relationship satisfaction, cheating definitions, and cheating in a sample of 236 dating and married couples. Partners' levels of MD were positively correlated. Actor‐Partner‐Interdependence Models (APIMs) revealed negative actor and partner effects of MD on relationship satisfaction. MD was not connected to which behaviors are seen as cheating, but there were positive actor and partner effects on committed self‐defined cheating. Additionally, individuals high in MD suspected their partners to cheat more. These results indicate a gap between moral beliefs and moral actions. Individuals high in MD do not necessarily deny cheating on their partner but rather choose not to follow their inner moral compass.
Autopsy report of a sudden infant death that was strongly suspicious of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Yokouchi Yuki , Asakawa Nanae , Iwase Hirotaro , Nasu Takeshi , Takahashi Kei
Published: May 2024

We conducted an autopsy on a 3‐month‐old boy in whom Kawasaki disease (KD) was strongly suspected based on the autopsy findings. The infant had a fever and was brought to a nearby clinic, where he was prescribed antipyretics and kept under observation. However, 15 days after onset of the fever, he suddenly died in bed. He exhibited no obvious redness of the lips, tongue, or conjunctiva. Membranous desquamation was present on his distal fingers. Vasculitis was observed in the coronary arteries, renal artery, splenic artery, and pulmonary vein. In addition, coronary artery aneurysms were present in the right coronary artery and left anterior descending artery. Thrombotic occlusion was observed in one aneurysm in the right coronary artery, resulting in acute myocardial infarction. The coronary artery wall showed infiltration of numerous macrophages and neutrophils. This case was classified as incomplete KD because the coronary artery aneurysm could not be demonstrated before death and was only recognized at autopsy. Pathologists and forensic scientists need to be aware that there are cases in which KD goes undiagnosed and untreated, leading to coronary artery aneurysm formation and sudden death.
The quantum model of T‐cell activation: Revisiting immune response theories
Authors: Manjili Masoud H. , Manjili Saeed H.
Published: May 2024

Our understanding of the immune response is far from complete, missing out on more detailed explanations that could be provided by molecular insights. To bridge this gap, we introduce the quantum model of T‐cell activation. This model suggests that the transfer of energy during protein phosphorylation within T cells is not a continuous flow but occurs in discrete bursts, or ‘quanta’, of phosphates. This quantized energy transfer is mediated by oscillating cycles of receptor phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, initiated by dynamic ‘catch‐slip’ pulses in the peptide‐major histocompatibility complex‐T‐cell receptor (pMHC‐TcR) interactions. T‐cell activation is predicated upon achieving a critical threshold of catch‐slip pulses at the pMHC‐TcR interface. Costimulation is relegated to a secondary role, becoming crucial only when the frequency of pMHC‐TcR catch‐slip pulses does not meet the necessary threshold for this quanta‐based energy transfer. Therefore, our model posits that it is the quantum nature of energy transfer—not the traditional signal I or signal II—that plays the decisive role in T‐cell activation. This paradigm shift highlights the importance of understanding T‐cell activation through a quantum lens, offering a potentially transformative perspective on immune response regulation.
Optimal taxation of normal and excess returns to risky assets
Authors: Boadway Robin , Spiritus Kevin
Published: May 2024

We examine optimal linear taxes on normal and excess capital income with heterogeneous rates of return, alongside an optimal nonlinear earnings tax. Households optimize a portfolio containing three types of assets: risk‐free, diversifiable risky, and private investment with idiosyncratic risk and heterogeneous expected returns. We define normal capital income as the risk‐free rate times the size of the portfolio, and excess returns as any deviations from it. In this setting, taxing excess returns is ineffective for redistribution due to a Domar–Musgrave effect and only generates revenue, to be balanced against the cost of revenue uncertainty. Taxing normal returns does serve redistribution, as they reveal information about the investors' types beyond what the earnings tax base reveals.
Topografías de la investigación social con incidencia territorial : trazos, rumbos y retornos
Authors: Barbosa Carrero Alexandra , Becerra Sandoval Camila , Bernal Galeano Sabina , Díaz Santamaría Juan Manuel , Del Cairo Silva Carlos Luis , Gacha Naucil Sandra , Jaramillo Marín Jefferson , Jiménez Borrero Valeria , García Suárez Daniel Eduardo , Mosquera Camacho Daniela , Ortiz Gallego Daniel , Velasco Vanegas Pablo Javier , Ávila Suárez Diana Carolina , Torres Pedraza Johanna Paola
Published: May 2024

Topografías de la investigación social con incidencia territorial trata de la experiencia de dos colectivos de investigación, la CESYCME y el SIICUNA, que se fundaron en la Pontificia Universidad Javeriana y que han tenido impacto social fuera de ella. El lugar y el sentido de la práctica investigativa de estos colectivos se divide en tres momentos que conforman las partes del libro. Así, en “Trazos” se presentan teórica e históricamente un conjunto de tradiciones intelectuales que reflexionan sobre el lugar ético y político de la investigación social. En “Rumbos” se profundiza en el diálogo que han mantenido estos colectivos con ciertas tradiciones intelectuales y las fuentes primarias de la teoría en el ejercicio de la investigación. Finalmente, en “Retornos” se reflexiona sobre los dilemas, los desafíos y las potencialidades de la investigación como trabajo colaborativo. Al tiempo que puede aportar a procesos territoriales, la investigación tiene el desafío de poner en perspectiva las formas convencionales de enseñanza universitaria. A partir de esos tres momentos, el libro muestra cómo la investigación social ha sido un territorio sinuoso que se configura continuamente entre la academia y las regiones, entre los textos y la acción, entre los escritorios y las trochas y entre los mapeos teóricos y los remolinos experienciales.
Aerodynamic Stability Enhancement of a SCO2 Centrifugal Compressor by Riblets of the Shroud
Authors: Cai Ruikai , Yang Mingyang , Zhuge Weilin , Deng Kangyao , Zhang Yangjun
Published: May 2024

Aerodynamic stability enhancement is crucial for the stable operation of supercritical carbon dioxide (SCO2) centrifugal compressors. This paper investigates the mechanism of aerodynamic instability of shrouded SCO2 compressors and accordingly proposes a new method for stability enhancement via the casing treatment in terms of shroud riblets. First, the experimentally validated computational fluid dynamic (CFD) method is employed to investigate the flow mechanism of the compressor under near-surge condition. The significant backflow phenomena within the impeller were revealed. Further analysis indicated that the imbalance of the Coriolis force and pressure gradient in blade-to-blade direction pushed the low-momentum fluid toward the shroud suction side. Additionally, higher Reynolds number resulted in thinner SCO2 boundary layer at the inlet near end-wall, increasing passage vorticity and further intensifying the aggregation of low-energy fluid on the shroud suction side. Based on the flow mechanisms, the streamwise riblets on shroud were designed to impede the migration of low-energy fluid. The CFD results revealed that under low-flow condition, riblets inhibit the formation of inducer vortices and backflow, thereby enhancing impeller aerodynamic stability and reducing the surge mass-flowrate. Further research indicated that riblets obstruct the migration of low-energy fluid toward shroud suction side, reducing the accumulation of low-energy fluid and blockage, thereby increasing the flow area and aerodynamic stability. Moreover, additional riblets wake and friction losses contributed to the deterioration of compressor performance at middle/large mass-flowrate conditions. Specifically, riblets reduced the flow area between blades at near choke mass-flowrate, leading to more pronounced shock structures and compressor earlier choke.