bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable healing environments: guidelines for designing therapeutic gardens for integrated hospital care
Authors: Nieberler-Walker Katharina , Desha Cheryl , Roiko Anne , Caldera Helessage Tharanga Savindi , Bosman Caryl
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Healthcare designers are fundamental to implementing therapeutic gardens in hospitals and healthcare facilities. They can guide clinical practitioners and healthcare decision-makers with a design plan to create sustainable healing environments for the medical treatment of their patients and a sanctuary away from the clinical hospital environment for their staff and visitors. This article presents the experience of 12 global healthcare designers, experts in architecture, landscape architecture and health planning, and how they design and establish therapeutic hospital gardens (THG) to be sustainable for clinical practitioners and healthcare decision-makers.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of these semi-structured interviews led to the establishment of guidelines for architects, landscape architects and health planners to design and establish therapeutic gardens that are sustainable healing environments integrated into hospital care.

Findings

These THG Healthcare Designer guidelines include five systematic steps: (1) include THG early, (2) design for hospital user needs, (3) conduct inclusive and defined stakeholder engagement, (4) draw on lessons learnt and (5) develop a comprehensive design brief.

Originality/value

Healthcare designers, for the first time, have five systematic steps to immediately guide the profession to work alongside clinical practitioners and healthcare decision-makers to successfully create THG. When these three sectors work together, then, THG can be sustainably integrated into the clinical hospital program, enabling wholesome and compassionate hospital care.
Selection‐mediated adaptive responses of native species to an invasive grass: Shade tolerance vs. shade avoidance
Authors: Stotz Gisela C. , Cahill James F. , Gianoli Ernesto
Published: January 2025

Studies suggesting that native plant species adapt to invasive species are accumulating, but we still have little evidence of native species performance recovery over time, following phenotypic selection by invaders.

The following sequential evidence is sufficient to infer selection‐mediated native species performance recovery in response to the interaction with an invader: (i) a decrease in native species' performance in recently invaded areas, (ii) phenotypic selection on native species' functional traits within invaded areas, and in time (iii) trait changes in the direction of selection and (iv) recovery of native species' performance.

In a field study in a Canadian grassland, we tested for the outlined sequential evidence in three native species in response to the invader Bromus inermis, whose growth habit significantly reduces light availability. Phenotypic selection was measured on two key traits associated with shade tolerance and avoidance: leaf area and plant height, respectively.

Only one species, Artemisia ludoviciana, met all four criteria, thus showing evidence consistent with an adaptive response to B. inermis: increased shade tolerance in response to selection (increased leaf area), further recovering its performance. No such evidence was found for the other two species: we observed a lack of selection on key traits upon encountering the invader in Hesperostipa curtiseta and no response to selection in Achillea millefolium.

Identifying the functional strategies plants can adopt to coexist with an invader is key to inform restoration and management strategies. The present study points to moving beyond the documentation of adaptation by native species to invaders. Specifically, following the proposed framework, future research would increase our understanding of when and how native species may adapt to persist and thrive within invaded areas, further identifying potential constraints to adaptive responses.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Circular Economy Capabilities for Slowing Resource Loops at Small Businesses in China, Finland and Japan – An Institutional Logics Perspective
Authors: Rovanto Savu , Virtanen Yuan
Published: January 2025

Existing circular economy (CE) research has primarily explored capabilities for the principle of closing resource loops (recycle and recover) in limited institutional contexts. However, little is known about the capabilities for the principle of slowing resource loops (reduce and reuse), despite its alignment towards achieving net zero economies. This research investigates capabilities for slowing resource loops at small CE businesses and the influence they experience from institutional logics in three CE‐pioneering countries of China, Japan and Finland, with a focus on low‐technology applications. The study uncovered capabilities in four themes: professional foundations, emotional engagement, interaction with the market community and (re)inventing the profession. The key differentiating influence in China was the markets’ shift to online; in Finland, it was positive attitudes towards sustainability; and in Japan, it was the connection of certain slowing practices to the country's rich cultural history. The study concludes that the influence of the institutional logic of the profession appeared similarly in the three countries, while the market influences differentiated the contexts. In the slowing‐oriented professions, trading mid‐lifecycle items called for specific capabilities for emotional engagement. The capabilities at small businesses were closely attached to persons rather than organizations.
The Populist Playbook: Why Identity Trumps Policy and How Democrats Can Adapt
Authors: Brieba Daniel , Velasco Andrés
Published: January 2025

Despite their poor record in office, populists continue to win elections. Traditional models that assume a narrow definition of self‐interest fail to explain the electoral resilience of populism. Contrary to conventional wisdom, voters typically make choices based on their social identities and support candidates with whom they can identify. Because populism is a variety of identity politics—always based on ‘us’ versus ‘them’—democrats and liberals seeking to counter it should play the identity game in a virtuous way, rather than vilify it or pretend it does not exist. More specifically, they should try to build inclusive identities through a liberal patriotic narrative that fosters a sense of shared fate across diverse groups. This article discusses specific features of this narrative and the supporting conditions it requires to become a plausible alternative to right‐wing populists’ divisive appeals.
The Maaloop Framework: Enabling a Systems‐Level Common Operating Picture in Multiagency Disaster Management
Authors: Drummond Greg , Thompson Matthew B. , Gill David
Published: January 2025

Emergency management operations are a complex system involving multiagency hierarchical command structures requiring coordination of significant volumes of information, resourcing and effort across expansive disaster zones within restricted timeframes and with potentially catastrophic consequences. Within these environments establishing a timely and shared understanding among different levels of command and across agencies is crucial yet remains a significant challenge. The problem is subsequently framed as ʻhow can the establishment of a systems‐level common operating picture across hierarchical commands and different agencies be improved in the context of complex emergency management and disaster response?ʼ To address this, we present the Maaloop Framework which builds upon the insights gained from previous research within the context of threat assessment, sensemaking, and critical decision‐making in police, military, ambulance, and firefighting contexts. To the observer trained in its application, it aims to provide an instant, point‐in‐time, global and detailed visual intelligent product of (i) the amount of information identified by decision makers at each location; (ii) how confident those decision makers are in the information and its application to resolve an incident; (iii) how the decision maker in adjacent command levels are using the information being fed to them. In turn, it will assist in improving individual and collective understanding regardless of position within a command hierarchy or agency jurisdiction. We submit that the Maaloop Framework does no more than describe the common constructs and concepts identified in the literature describing decision‐making within these industries and the broader study of decision‐making in the field of psychology. Therefore, this framework is intended to provide a solution to provide systems‐level common operating picture and an initial basis for increased communication and understanding across complex crisis events.
Review article: Efficacy of cyproheptadine in the management of serotonin toxicity following deliberate self‐poisoning – A systematic review
Authors: King Emily , Rotella Joe A
Published: January 2025

Serotonin toxicity is a potentially fatal condition caused by increased serotonergic activity in the central nervous system. Cyproheptadine, a serotonergic antagonist, is recommended for treatment; however, there is a lack of evidence to support its use. The present study aimed to evaluate the evidence for the use of cyproheptadine in the management of serotonin toxicity following deliberate self‐poisoning. Publications from 2003 were identified by searching electronic databases Cochrane, MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsycINFO. The inclusion criteria for studies to be included were determined a priori and consisted of studies published in English (or where an English translation was available) where the primary diagnosis of serotonin toxicity (or syndrome) following deliberate self‐poisoning and cyproheptadine was administered as the sole serotonergic antagonist. Studies were evaluated for quality and risk of bias. Twelve articles were identified, of which 11 were case reports and one was a case series. Serotonin toxicity was most attributed to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and all cases fulfilled Hunter serotonin toxicity criteria. Cyproheptadine regimen varied widely with respect to reporting of initial dose, repeat doses, frequency and duration. Few reports commented on clinical resolution and therefore efficacy was not established. All studies were graded as being of very low evidence and at high risk of bias. There is a lack of evidence to support the efficacy of cyproheptadine or its recommendation in clinical guidelines pertaining to the management of serotonin toxicity.
The Prognostic Value of Right Ventricular End‐Diastolic Basal Diameter Index by Echocardiography in Connective Tissue Diseases Associated With Pulmonary Artery Hypertension
Authors: Qianwen Wu , Huangshu Ye , Hong Ma , Xiaoxia Gan , Ning Zhang , Lei Gu , Yinsu Zhu , Lei Zhou , Yanli Zhou , Miaojia Zhang , Xiaoxuan Sun , Qiang Wang
Published: January 2025

Background

Right ventricular (RV) failure is a well‐recognized pivotal prognostic factor of adverse outcomes in pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH), while RV dilation provides significant implications for adaptive or maladaptive changes. PAH is a predominant cause of mortality among patients with connective tissue disease (CTD). This study aims to elucidate the prognostic significance of RV morphology, as assessed by echocardiography (ECHO), in with CTD associated with PAH (CTD‐PAH).

Methods

In this ambispective cohort study, 143 CTD‐PAH patients diagnosed by right‐sided heart catheterization (RHC) from 2013 to 2023 were enrolled. Clinical characteristics, laboratory data, echocardiographic parameters (right ventricular end‐diastolic basal diameter index (RVDDI), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (PASP)) and therapy were recorded. The primary endpoint was defined as clinical worsening within a five‐year timeframe. Analytical methods included Kaplan–Meier survival analyses, the log‐rank test, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression to evaluate prognostic factors.

Results

The study enrolled a total of 143 patients with CTD‐PAH, with a notable female predominance (95.1%) and a median age of 41.67 years; SLE‐PAH (49%) and pSS‐PAH (34%) were the most common subtypes, and 94% of the participants were in WHO‐FC II‐III. Among the participants, 34 (23.8%) patients experienced clinical worsening during a median follow‐up period of 21 months. After adjusting for confounders such as age and sex, RVDDI, as determined by ECHO was correlated with clinical worsening (HR 1.090; 95% CI: 1.019–1.166; p = 0.012). RVDDI > 25.81 mm/m2 predicts higher incidence of clinical worsening in CTD‐PAH. In the subgroup of TAPSE/PASP > 0.19 mm/mmHg, patients with RVDDI > 25.81 mm/m2 had a higher incidence of clinical worsening. The estimated event‐free survival rates at 1 and 3 years were 93.5% and 53.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that RVDDI, as evaluated by ECHO, is a significant prognostic indicator for clinical worsening in CTD‐PAH. Its inclusion in the assessment of RV function and risk stratification may provide valuable incremental prognostic information for this CTD‐PAH population.
Does ESG Performance Affect Supply Chain Concentration? Evidence From China
Authors: Feng Panpan , Zhang Yimeng , Jeon Seongil
Published: January 2025

This study aims to examine the impact of corporate environmental, social responsibility, and corporate governance (ESG) performance on supply chain concentration in the Chinese capital market. It finds that corporate ESG performance reduces supply chain concentration by increasing firms' information transparency and bargaining power. Additionally, digital transformation positively moderates the relationship between ESG performance and supply chain concentration. Further analyses indicate that the dampening effect of corporate ESG performance on supply chain concentration is more pronounced among firms that are non‐state‐owned and have higher financing costs. These findings offer valuable practical guidance for Chinese listed companies and governments.
Thoracoscopic Lobectomy for Right Upper Bronchial Atresia Combined With an Azygos Lobe of the Right Lower Lobe in an Infant Patient: A Case Report of a Rare Condition
Authors: Nishida Nanako , Yano Keisuke , Tabata Yumiko , Kedoin Chihiro , Nagano Ayaka , Harumatsu Toshio , Tsuruno Yudai , Murakami Masakazu , Sugita Koshiro , Onishi Shun , Yamada Koji , Yamada Waka , Kawano Takafumi , Ieiri Satoshi
Published: January 2025

Bronchial atresia (BA) and azygos lobe (AL) are rare congenital pulmonary abnormalities in pediatric patients. We herein report an infantile case of BA combined with AL that was treated with thoracoscopic surgery. The patient was an 8‐month‐old boy who was preoperatively diagnosed with BA of the right upper lobe (RUL) combined with an AL using fetal magnetic resonance imaging and postnatal enhanced computed tomography. Thoracoscopic surgery using indocyanine green (ICG)‐guided near‐infrared fluorescence (NIRF) was performed for BA of the RUL. In the operative findings, the upper lobe bronchus was not recognized, and the pulmonary vessels of the RUL were confirmed using ICG‐guided NIRF. The AL was connected to the right lower lobe (RLL). Partial RLL, including AL resection, was performed after RUL resection to prevent postoperative infections and torsion. The postoperative course was uneventful. Thoracoscopic surgery using ICG‐guided NIRF was safely performed in an infant with a rare condition.
Effects of graded levels Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi) on growth performance, serum biochemical indices, meat quality, and caecal microbiota and metabolite in yellow‐feathered broilers
Authors: Ju Ying , Qi Liangliang , Hu Yongqiang , Huang Liling , Li Liying , Luo Yi , Shi Xiaoguang , Liu Xuzhou , Jiang Mingguo
Published: January 2025

The Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP), is the aged peel of Citrus fruit, which contains phenols, flavonoids, and polysaccharides. This study aims to investigate dietary CRP supplementation on the growth performance, serum biochemical indices, meat quality, intestinal morphology, microbiota, and metabolite of yellow‐feathered broilers. A total of 240 yellow‐feathered broilers (1.00 ± 0.22 kg, 9 weeks old) were randomly allotted into 4 treatments feeding a basal diet (control), the basal diet containing antibiotics (positive control), and the control diet containing 1.5% and 3% CRP, respectively. At the end of a 56‐day trial, one broiler from each replicate was selected, and samples of ileal tissue and cecal digesta were collected to analyze intestinal morphology, microbial composition, and metabolites. The results revealed that 3% CRP decreased average daily feed intake (ADFI), serum total cholesterol (TC), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL). The CRP supplementation could increase serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) and meat pH. Broilers fed CRP had elevated antioxidant and liquid‐regulated metabolites. Together, the results suggested that incorporating a moderate level of CRP has a minor impact on growth performance and could benefit health to some extent by enhancing antioxidants, regulating serum liquid, and changing microbial composition and metabolites.
Performance of the accelerated assessment of the European Medicines Agency
Authors: Del Grosso Vittorio , Perini Martina , Casilli Giorgio , Costa Enrico , Boscaro Valentina , Miglio Gianluca , Genazzani Armando A.
Published: January 2025

Aims

In Europe, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has an accelerated pathway to prioritize approval of medicines. Approved drugs are then assessed by Health Technology Assessment (HTA) bodies before being made available to patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate the characteristics of the drugs admitted to the EMA accelerated assessment (AA) and scrutinize the downstream HTA procedures regarding these medicines and the final assessment regarding added therapeutic value (ATV).

Methods

Regulatory publicly available documents were scrutinized for all medicines authorized by the EMA between 2019 and 2021 to create a regulatory database. A second database was created by extracting data of the medicines that had requested the EMA accelerated pathway from three national HTA bodies (AIFA, HAS and G‐BA).

Results

Standard assessments by the EMA had a median of 364 days while AAs were significantly shorter (189 days). Only 12 out of 164 authorized medicines were assessed in this manner. Small chemical entities had a significantly lower chance of being assessed under the AA, while biological and PRIME scheme medicines had a higher chance; AA had a higher chance of leading to authorizations under exceptional circumstances. These 12 products were assessed more quickly compared to other products by HTA bodies, although this did not always lead to decisions of major ATV over alternatives.

Conclusions

A minority of medicinal products are assessed under the accelerated pathway. HTA bodies also assess these products more quickly, but do not always perceive an important clinical advantage over alternatives.
The Impairment Argument's Coup de Grâce
Authors: Samuel Braylen
Published: January 2025

According to Hendricks Impairment Argument (IA), abortion is immoral because it impairs the fetus. Here, I argue it is not sufficient to show merely that abortion impairs, Hendricks must show that it harms the fetus. If the fetus is not numerically identical to the person it will become, then it isn't harmed by an abortion. But if the fetus is numerically identical to the person it will become, it is harmed by the deprivation of a future of value. However, taking this route ultimately undermines the novelty of the impairment argument.
Your Teeth, You Are in Control: A Process Evaluation of the Implementation of a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Intervention for Reducing Child Dental Anxiety
Authors: Kettle Jennifer , Porritt Jenny , Baker Sarah R. , Rodd Helen , Cross Elizabeth , Marshman Zoe
Published: January 2025

Aim

To explore the views of patients, caregivers, and dental professionals on the factors that influence implementation, processes, and effectiveness of a guided self‐help cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) intervention, ‘Your teeth, you are in control’ (YTYAIC), in the CALM trial.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted as part of this qualitative component of the process evaluation, and data were analysed using a framework approach based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and the Five Areas Model of CBT.

Results

Thirty‐seven participants were recruited. Potential mechanisms of action were identified using the Five Areas Model of CBT. Participants felt the intervention may exert change through targeting unhelpful thoughts and feelings (e.g., building trust and perceptions of control) and behaviours (e.g., encouraging effective communication and coping strategies) and facilitating a more positive situational context (e.g., developing more supportive relationships). Enablers (e.g., adaptability, design and delivery) and barriers (e.g., time/resource constraints, cost) to implementation were identified using the CFIR.

Conclusions

This study revealed multiple potential mechanisms of action which could reduce dental anxiety and examined how implementation and contextual factors may influence this change process. The results of the research revealed that the intervention could be implemented in primary dental care and identified the potential barriers which should be addressed to aid successful implementation of the intervention in real world contexts.

Trial Registration

This clinical trial has been registered with an international registry and has been allocated an International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN27579420)
Real‐world retrospective study in elderly patients aged 65 years and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with daily oral semaglutide (SEMA‐elderly)
Authors: Fiore Vincenzo , Carbotta Giovanni , Barraco Sonia , Falasca Paolo , Aricò Concetta Nadia , Barucca Alessandra
Published: January 2025

Aim

This real‐world, retrospective cohort study aimed to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of oral semaglutide—the first GLP‐1 receptor agonist available in oral form—in patients aged 65 years and older with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

The primary endpoint was the change in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline (V1) to six months (V3). Secondary endpoints included change in body weight, proportion of patients achieving HbA1c <7%, proportion of patients achieving both an HbA1c reduction of ≥1% and a body weight reduction of ≥5%. Exploratory endpoints were also assessed, including evaluations at three months (V2).

Results

One hundred and one patients (mean age 74.7 ± 6.1 years) started oral semaglutide treatment. Mean HbA1c decreased significantly from V1 to V3 (change: −0.44%, p < 0.001), with reductions already evident at V2. The proportion of patients achieving an HbA1c ≤7% increased from 36.6% at V1 to 61.7% at V3. At V3, 9.6% of patients achieved an HbA1c reduction of ≥1% and a weight loss of ≥5%. Body weight decreased from a baseline mean of 76.8–73.7 kg at V3 (p < 0.001). Body mass index, waist circumference, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and systolic blood pressure decreased significantly from V1 to V3, with changes already evident at V2. Eleven patients (10.9%) reported adverse events. Seven patients (6.9%) discontinued treatment.

Conclusion

Oral semaglutide effectively improves glycaemic control and weight management in elderly patients with T2DM while improving lipid and cardiovascular parameters and proving to be safe and well tolerated.
Impact of a very low‐calorie ketogenic diet on metabolic and microbiota outcomes in post‐bariatric patients and bariatric‐Naïve individuals: A comparative pilot study
Authors: Ernesti Ilaria , Massari Maria Chiara , Cipriani Fiammetta , Masi Davide , Glaser Krzysztof , Genco Martina , Tuccinardi Dario , Lubrano Carla , Mariani Stefania , Angeloni Antonio , Gnessi Lucio , Basciani Sabrina , Watanabe Mikiko
Published: January 2025

Aims

To date, bariatric surgery (BS) is the most effective long‐term treatment for obesity, but weight regain (WR) is common. The very low‐calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) is effective for weight loss and may influence gut microbiota (GM) composition, but it has been scarcely evaluated in post‐bariatric patients. This study compared the efficacy and safety of a VLCKD in patients with WR post‐bariatric surgery (BS+) and in bariatric surgery‐naïve patients (BS‐).

Methods

In this prospective, case–control study, 33 patients (15 BS+, 18 BS‐) underwent an 8‐week‐long VLCKD. Outcomes included weight loss, metabolic profile, safety and GM composition.

Results

Both groups achieved significant weight loss (BS+: −6.9%, BS‐: −8.3%), but the BS+ group showed slightly less metabolic improvement, particularly in insulin resistance and triglycerides. GM composition differed at baseline, reflecting the lasting effects of BS, and VLCKD led to significant changes in both groups. Microbial diversity and specific taxonomic shifts were more pronounced in BS‐ patients. Mild renal function changes were noted in BS+ patients, though these remained within clinically acceptable ranges.

Conclusion

VLCKD is effective in both BS+ and BS‐ patients, though metabolic and microbial responses may be less robust post‐surgery, possibly due to anatomical and physiological changes. Tailored approaches may be therefore needed to optimize outcomes in post‐bariatric patients.
Metabolic encephalopathy associated with uraemic syndrome and hyperammonaemia in a horse presenting with renal failure
Authors: Fernandes T. , Robin M.
Published: January 2025

A 3‐year‐old racing Arabian mare was admitted to the hospital with a 5‐day history of muscle pain, lethargy and anorexia. The mare arrived at the hospital with marked neurological abnormalities, dehydration and melaena. Investigation revealed severe azotaemia, acute renal failure, hyperammonaemia and evidence of recent myopathy. Therapeutic objectives were the correction of fluid deficiencies and restoration of normal renal function and urine production. The mare responded rapidly to treatment and was discharged after 12 days, before going on to race the following year. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of survival of a case of acute renal failure with metabolic encephalopathy associated with hyperammonaemia and uraemic syndrome in the horse. Additionally, the case had symptoms of GI disease consistent with uraemic damage to the intestine.
Enhancing Security and Performance in Live VM Migration: A Machine Learning‐Driven Framework With Selective Encryption for Enhanced Security and Performance in Cloud Computing Environments
Authors: Haris Raseena M. , Barhamgi Mahmoud , Badawy Ahmed , Nhlabatsi Armstrong , Khan Khaled M.
Published: January 2025

Live virtual machine (LVM) migration is pivotal in cloud computing for its ability to seamlessly transfer virtual machines (VMs) between physical hosts, optimise resource utilisation, and enable uninterrupted service. However, concerns persist regarding safeguarding sensitive data during migration, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare, banking and military operations. Existing migration methods often compromise between performance and data security, prompting the need for a balanced solution. To address this, we propose a novel framework merging machine learning with selective encryption to fortify the pre‐copy live migration process. Our approach intelligently predicts optimal migration times while selectively encrypting sensitive data, ensuring confidentiality and integrity without compromising performance. Rigorous experiments demonstrate its effectiveness, showcasing an average 51.82% reduction in downtime and an average 72.73% decrease in total migration time across diverse workloads. This integration of selective encryption not only bolsters security but also optimises migration metrics, presenting a robust solution for uninterrupted service delivery in critical cloud computing domains.
Additively Manufactured Scalmalloy via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L‐PBF): Temperature‐Dependent Tensile and Fatigue Behaviors
Authors: Khan Md Faysal , Ghiaasiaan Reza , Gradl Paul R. , Shao Shuai , Shamsaei Nima
Published: January 2025

This study characterized the micro‐/defect‐structure of laser powder bed fused (L‐PBF) Scalmalloy and investigated its mechanical behavior across a wide temperature range. Hot isostatic pressing effectively reduced defect content while maintaining similar microstructure and room temperature tensile properties to stress relief condition; thus, it was applied to all specimens. Tensile and strain‐controlled fatigue (fully reversed at 0.005, 0.003, 0.002, and 0.001 mm/mm amplitudes) tests were conducted from cryogenic (−195°C) to elevated temperatures (up to 400°C for tensile and 200°C for fatigue). Tensile strength decreased gradually until 100°C and then sharply at 200°C due to excessive grain boundary sliding. Fatigue resistance was consistent across temperatures at the highest strain amplitude (0.005 mm/mm) but reduced significantly at 200°C and intermediate amplitudes of 0.003 and 0.002 mm/mm. At the lowest amplitude (0.001 mm/mm), fatigue life depended more on crack‐initiating defect size than temperature.
Refining bone marrow ablation and reconstitution in mice
Authors: Hawkins Penny , Dooley James , Rodda Jessica , Gilbert Colin
Published: January 2025

This report presents findings from a group of UK‐based researchers with expertise in the use of animal models for bone marrow ablation and reconstitution. The primary aim is to facilitate the implementation of the Three Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement), with an emphasis on refinement. Bone marrow ablation and reconstitution procedures are performed for a number of different purposes and conducted predominantly in mice. These procedures can induce significant suffering, classified as "severe", Category E or Category D/E under European, US and Canadian legislation, respectively. Although severity categorization is not mandated in countries such as Australia and New Zealand, legislation still requires that the level of animal suffering must be minimized to the greatest extent possible. This report identifies specific animal welfare issues and proposes practical measures aimed at reducing both animal use and suffering.
24‐Epibrassinolide Improves Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Tolerance to Alkaline Salt Stress by Regulating Antioxidant Defence and Photosynthetic Properties
Authors: Wang Yong , Zhang Ruyan , Wang Xingxing , Jiao Shujuan , Zhang Weina , Kang Yichen , Li Ming , Xie Jiali , Yang Xinyu , Liu Yuhui , Qin Shuhao
Published: January 2025

Alkaline salt stress, as a more diverse stress, severely affects the growth and development of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) and leads to yield reduction. Brassinosteroids have been shown to regulate plant growth and play an essential role under environmental stress. However, the physiological responses by which brassinosteroids confer alkaline salt stress tolerance in potato remain unclear. We used potato ‘Atlantic’ as experimental material. The effects of 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 μmol·L−1 of 24‐epibrassinolide (EBR) on the physiological and photosynthetic characteristics of potato under alkaline salt stress (300 mmol·L−1 NaHCO3) were studied. The results showed that exogenous EBR increased the antioxidant enzyme activities, increased the content of osmoregulatory substances and decreased the production of peroxidation products in potato leaves under alkaline salt stress. EBR treatment improved the photosynthetic characteristics by accumulating more photosynthetic pigments. This was manifested by an increase in net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance, and a decrease in intercellular carbon dioxide concentration. In addition, exogenous EBR increased the maximal quantum yield of photosystem II photochemistry and the effective PSII quantum yield of potato PSII under alkaline salt stress and ultimately increased yield. Potato tuber yield was significantly increased by 27.31% and 29.17% in T4 treatment compared to T1 in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Cluster and correlation analyses further demonstrated the beneficial effects of exogenous EBR on physiology, photosynthetic characteristics and potato yield under alkaline salt stress. In conclusion, exogenous EBR can enhance the tolerance of potato to alkaline salt stress by improving the antioxidant system and photosynthesis.
Reproducibility and Reliability of Intraoral Scanners for Evaluating Peri‐Implant Tissues and Implant‐Supported Prostheses: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Braun Dorian , Chappuis Vivianne , Fonseca Manrique , Raabe Clemens , Suter Valérie G.A. , Couso‐Queiruga Emilio
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess the reproducibility and reliability of the pink (PES) and white esthetic scores (WES) using digital images and the intra‐ and inter‐examiner agreement among different clinical backgrounds and assessment methods.

Material and Methods

Standardized intraoral images were obtained from adult subjects with an implant‐supported single‐tooth fixed dental prosthesis located in the maxillary esthetic zone using a digital camera and a true‐color intraoral scanner. According to the PES and WES criteria, the images were evaluated by 20 calibrated evaluators, 5 prosthodontists, 5 periodontists, 5 undergraduates, and 5 oral surgeons.

Results

The total number of individual PES and WES was 12600 and 9000, respectively. Similar PES and WES values were obtained with the intraoral scanner compared to the digital camera. Intra‐ and inter‐rater variations were observed between and within evaluators' clinical backgrounds, with periodontists showing consistently lower mean PES and WES. The intraclass correlation coefficient ranges between 0.41 to 0.61 for the PES and 0.42 to 0.69 for the WES, resulting in fair to good agreement in both digital methods.

Conclusion

The digital assessment of the peri‐implant tissues and implant‐supported prostheses utilizing images provided by an intraoral scanner offers a reproducible and reliable digital method comparable with the digital camera.

Clinical Significance

This study highlights the reliability and reproducibility of using intraoral scanners for evaluating peri‐implant tissues and implant‐supported prostheses. The findings suggest that intraoral scanners are a viable digital alternative to traditional digital imaging for these assessments. However, the observed intra‐ and inter‐rater variations in pink and white esthetic scores, according to the clinical background of evaluators, emphasize the need for caution when interpreting these values in clinical decision‐making and research.
Classifying and Characterising Unmet Integrated Care Needs of Older Adults With Multimorbidity: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Wu Jingjie , Xue Erxu , Liu Chunbo , Shao Jing , Fu Yujia , Zhao Binyu , Chen Dandan , Zhang Hui , Ye Zhihong
Published: January 2025

Aims

To classify the unmet integrated care needs of older adults with multimorbidity and to explore the factors associated with different categories of unmet integrated care needs among the target population.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey using the statistical method of latent profile analysis.

Methods

From July 2022 to March 2023, 397 older adults with multimorbidity, aged 60 years or older, were recruited from one primary healthcare setting and from four secondary and tertiary hospitals to participate in face‐to‐face questionnaire surveys. The questionnaire used in this study to assess unmet integrated care needs among older adults with multimorbidity was self‐designed through a series of steps, including a scoping review, expert consultation and cognitive interviews. Latent profile analysis was applied to uncover distinct profiles of unmet integrated care needs, and multinomial logistic regression was employed to explore whether the profiles were further distinguished by participants' sociodemographic and health‐related covariates. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS v.29.0 and Mplus v.8.0.

Results

The optimal solution was a four‐profile model, characterised by high unmet integration needs, high unmet system integration needs, low unmet system integration needs and low unmet integration needs, respectively. Multinomial logistic regression results indicated that profile differences were associated with place of residence, number of coresidents and the presence or absence of complex multimorbidity.

Conclusion

The integrated care needs of older adults with multimorbidity have not yet been fully met. Classifying and characterising unmet integrated care needs profiles is a crucial step in the rational allocation of integrated care resources.

Reporting Method

This study was reported based on the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) for cross‐sectional studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

All participants were older adults with multimorbidity, and they were informed that they could withdraw from the study at any time.
Capacity and Capability for Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professional Principal Investigator Roles in Healthcare Research: A National Survey
Authors: Jarman Heather , Bench Suzanne , Melody Teresa , Brand Sarah , Menzies Julie C. , Tinkler Linda , Kemp Karen , Dorgan Sharon , Henshall Catherine
Published: January 2025

Aims

To understand the current capacity and capability for nursing, midwifery and allied health professional (NMAHP) principal investigator roles in England.

Design

Quantitative online survey.

Methods

Online national quantitative survey across England analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

The number of NMAHP PIs in an organisation was unrelated to the size of the NMAHP workforce. NMAHP PIs were more common in non‐CTIMP studies. A quarter of organisations had no specific education or support for NMAHP PIs. Most respondents indicated that a national approach to support and training would be helpful.

Conclusions

Having more research‐active NMAHPs provides career progression, improved staff retention and improves the evidence base for practice. Having a broader range of CI/PIs allows for more targeted and specialty‐specific oversight of research studies and streamlines the acceptance process to allow research to be delivered in a more timely manner.

Implications for Practice

This will require more collaboration between NMAHP, medical and industry communities to promote a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare research delivery and to ensure that CI/PI roles are fulfilled by the most appropriate person, regardless of their profession.

Impact

To ascertain NMAHP capacity and capability for PI research roles. Shows where national and organisational effort should be focused to increase this nationally.

Reporting Method

Cross reporting guidance for survey studies was utilised.

Patient Contribution

No patient or patient contribution.
Effect of Screen Time and Sugar Consumption Reduction on Sleep Bruxism in Children: A Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Restrepo‐Serna Claudia , Caicedo‐Giraldo María , Velasquez‐Baena Laura , Bonfanti Graciela , Santamaría‐Villegas Adriana
Published: January 2025

Objective

Sleep bruxism (SB) is associated with alterations in dopamine and serotonin, which are related to increased consumption of added sugar and overuse of screens. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of the interventions ‘Food, Fun and Family’ (FFF) and Counselling and Education (CE) on the frequency of SB in children.

Methods

A randomised clinical trial was conducted. Forty‐eight participants aged between 4 and 8 years, attending the paediatric clinics of Universidad CES (Colombia) and Hospital Elina de la Serna (Argentina) participated in the study. Subjects were randomised into the FFF (experimental) and CE (regular intervention) groups. The frequency of SB was reported with the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), the consumption of added sugar from items with the HBSC‐FFQ and the time of use of screens through a diary in baseline (before starting the intervention), at Week 6 and Week 12. Data were analysed with Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Dunn's post hoc, Mann–Whitney test, a linear mixed model and logistic ordinal regression analyses.

Results

The FFF group had a more significant reduction in consumption of added sugar and screen time compared to the CE group (p < 0.05), especially from Week 6 to baseline. Regression analysis showed that reducing TV watching and consumption of added sugar were associated with a decrease in SB frequency, especially in the FFF group (OR < 1, p < 0.05), and the results were consistent across different study environments.

Conclusion

The FFF intervention was more effective in reducing the screen time and sugar consumption and thus decreased the frequency of SB, when compared with the CE intervention.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05310162
Dietary Profile of Women With Chronic Muscle Temporomandibular Disorder: An Observational Study
Authors: Nogueira Sandra Maria Abreu , Lima Samuel Machado Santos , Almondes Kaluce Gonçalvez de Sousa , de Lima Maria Alice Vale , Fontoura Luana Pinheiro Guerra , Mesquita Maria Laura Marreiro , Viana Glautemberg de Almeida , Borges Lara Pereira Saraiva Leão , Peixoto Raniel Fernandes , Bonjardim Leonardo Rigoldi , Conti Paulo César Rodrigues , Fiamengui Lívia Maria Sales Pinto
Published: January 2025

Background

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is the main chronic pain that affects the face, and it is associated with dietary changes due to pain and dysfunction. However, there is a scarcity of studies on its impact on nutrition and vice versa.

Objectives

To assess and compare the intake of energy and nutrients among chronic TMD myalgia and asymptomatic women and to evaluate data according to dietary reference intakes (DRI) and the World Health Organization (WHO) values.

Methods

In this analytical cross‐sectional study, 84 female subjects were evaluated according to the diagnostic criteria of TMD (DC/TMD) and allocated into two groups: asymptomatic group (n = 16) and TMD group (n = 68). Participants were assessed using three 24‐h dietary recalls and then analysed for energy, macro and micronutrient content (Nutwin programme). The multiple source method programme was used to estimate participants' usual dietary intake. Usual energy and nutrients intake were also analysed according to the DRI and WHO values. The obtained data were analysed using SPSS 25.0 software. The data were considered significant when the p values were ≤ 0.05.

Results

The TMD group showed lowered usual intake of cholesterol, sodium, omega‐3, omega‐6, folate, magnesium, selenium and increased usual intake of trans fat. The TMD group showed a higher prevalence of inadequacy of selenium and folate intake.

Conclusion

Dietary intake inadequacies were observed in both groups; however, TMD women showed a significantly lower intake of several nutrients. Long‐term dietary assessment is suggested to accurately investigate the relationship between TMD and nutrient deficiencies.
Revised chronology and expanded insights: Geologic perspective on the Luna impact event and its influence on the Harappan Civilization
Authors: Indu G. K. , James S. , Sathyan Sachana , Aswathi J. , Rani V. R. , Nair V. M. , Varghese Libiya M. , Sajinkumar K. S. , Sharma Nayan , Dhali Mitthu , Anand Aryavart , Rajesh V. J. , Praveen M. N. , Chavan Anil , Bhandari Subhash , Malik Javed N.
Published: January 2025

Luna is a potential impact crater located in the Banni Plains of the Kutch Basin in western India. The suspected impactites, collected from a 1‐m deep trench near the vicinity of the Luna structure, possess a range of physical (porosity and magnetism) properties. Petrographic studies reveal that these impactites are dominated by wüstite, kirschsteinite, spinel, olivine, and quartz (in decreasing order of abundance), with a few silica grains exhibiting potential planar fractures (PF). These impactites can be grouped into three distinct melt classes based on their wüstite and kirschsteinite content (classified as Ca‐rich, Ca‐poor, and transitional type). Spectroscopic analysis indicates a higher concentration of wüstite in magnetic samples, whereas weakly magnetic to non‐magnetic samples have an elevated presence of kirschsteinite. Major oxide geochemistry comparison between the impactites and the surrounding Banni Plain sediments show that some Luna impactites have a chemical affinity with a terrestrial or transitional setting, whereas the remaining samples portray a non‐terrestrial trend suggesting notable mixing of target rock and projectile material. Optically stimulated luminescence dating of the sediment layer containing the impactites yielded an age of 4045 ± 182 years for the impact, consistent with the earlier proposed age of <6900 years based on radiocarbon dating. The revised age places the Luna impact event much closer to the time frame of the Harappan Civilization's decline, suggesting that it may have had a greater impact on the Harappan Civilization than previously thought.
Change Your Diet: How CO2, Plant Phenology and Genotype Alter Grapevine Quality and Affect Performance and Larval Transcriptome of an Insect Herbivore
Authors: Becker Christine , Steingass Christof B. , Vogel Heiko , Reineke Annette
Published: January 2025

Herbivorous insects need to cope with changing host plant biochemistry caused by abiotic and biotic impacts, to meet their dietary requirements. Larvae of the multivoltine European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana, one of the main insect pests in viticulture, feed on both flowers and berries. The nutritional value and defence compounds of these organs are changing with plant phenology and are affected by climate change which may accordingly alter plant–insect interactions. Here, we assessed the impacts of future elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations on the host plant quality of different grapevine organs and the larval performance and the transcriptome of L. botrana. Using the Geisenheim VineyardFACE facility, where ‘Riesling’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ were cultivated in the field under ambient or elevated (ca. + 20%) atmospheric CO2 concentrations, we found that nutrient (amino acids and sugars) and defence compound (phenolic compounds) concentrations of inflorescences and ripening berries differed strongly due to plant phenology and less due to cultivar and CO2 concentration. Assessing global gene expression after feeding on the respective organs, we found that larval transcriptomic plasticity largely mirrored the plant biochemical plasticity. Larval relative growth rate differed between treatments in a plant phenology‐dependent manner. Grape berries contained higher amino acid concentrations and altered phenolics profiles after larval feeding. In the near future, the grapevine–L. botrana interaction will probably change less because of elevated CO2 concentrations than it does currently during one season. Changes associated with plant phenology, however, may be relevant for contemporary pest management.