bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edge Chipping Resistance and Flexural Strength of CAD‐CAM Ceramics Before and After Thermomechanical Aging
Authors: Song Min‐Gyu , Ko Kyung‐Ho , Huh Yoon‐Hyuk , Park Chan‐Jin , Cho Lee‐Ra
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the complementary mechanical properties of dental ceramics using edge chipping resistance (Rea) and flexural strength before and after thermomechanical aging.

Material and Methods

Computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing of ceramic materials, including zirconia (ZR), lithium disilicate (LS2), and resin nanoceramics (RNC), were evaluated. Specimens for flexural strength testing were fabricated with dimensions of 3 × 4 × 25 mm, with 30 specimens per group. For the edge chipping test (ECT), specimens were fabricated with dimensions of 3 × 4 × 12 mm, with 48 specimens per group. Half of the specimens for both tests were subjected to thermomechanical aging for 200,000 cycles at 50 N. A Weibull analysis was performed to determine flexural strength. Fractographic analysis was performed before and after thermomechanical aging during the ECT. X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) was performed on the ZR specimens before and after thermomechanical aging. Flexural strength was analyzed using a two‐way repeated analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a t‐test, and Rea was analyzed using Pearson correlation and a two‐way repeated ANOVA.

Results

The flexural strength and Rea differed according to the material (p = 0.001), whereas they were similar before and after thermomechanical aging (p > 0.05). The Weibull modulus of the flexural strength decreased after thermomechanical aging. In the fractographic analysis of the ECT, more than two fracture origins were identified after thermomechanical aging. The XRD analysis of ZR showed an increased monoclinic phase after thermomechanical aging.

Conclusion

All the materials met the ISO 6872 standards for bending test. However, LS2 and RNC show low edge chipping resistance within the range of the occlusal force. The thermomechanical aging did not significantly alter the mechanical properties of the materials. However, the Weibull coefficients of the flexural strength decreased, and an additional origin of fracture appeared after thermomechanical aging.

Significance

Flexural strength and Rea differed depending on the material used. The probability of the material fracture increased after thermomechanical aging. To understand ceramic fractures, two mechanical tests and thermomechanical aging must be performed together.
Salicylic acid: The roles in plant immunity and crosstalk with other hormones
Authors: Tian Hainan , Xu Lu , Li Xin , Zhang Yuelin
Published: December 2024

Land plants use diverse hormones to coordinate their growth, development and responses against biotic and abiotic stresses. Salicylic acid (SA) is an essential hormone in plant immunity, with its levels and signaling tightly regulated to ensure a balanced immune output. Over the past three decades, molecular genetic analyses performed primarily in Arabidopsis have elucidated the biosynthesis and signal transduction pathways of key plant hormones, including abscisic acid, jasmonic acid, ethylene, auxin, cytokinin, brassinosteroids, and gibberellin. Crosstalk between different hormones has become a major focus in plant biology with the goal of obtaining a full picture of the plant hormone signaling network. This review highlights the roles of SA in plant immunity and summarizes our current understanding of the pairwise interactions of SA with other major plant hormones. The complexity of these interactions is discussed, with the hope of stimulating research to address existing knowledge gaps in hormone crosstalk, particularly in the context of balancing plant growth and defense.
Corrigendum: Heterogeneity, Impatience, and Dynamic Private Provision of a Discrete Public Good
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Zou Zhentao
Published: December 2024

This corrigendum amends the main results in Bhattacharya et al., henceforth BTS. We show that the closed‐form solution in Proposition 3 of BTS is incorrect, and the individual contributions are nonlinear (rather than linear) in the cumulative collective contribution. In addition, when the impatience differential is large enough, the patient individuals (rather than impatient individuals) reduce the contributions as the project progresses toward completion. Finally, the project is completed earlier (rather than later) as we increase the difference in impatience.
Attenuation of Chronic Oxidative Stress‐Induced Testicular and Epididymal Dysfunction by Oral Intake of Lepidium meyenii in New Zealand Rabbits
Authors: Sayed Mohamed A. M. , Hussein Manal T. , Mustafa Fatma El‐Zahraa A. , Abdelhefeez Enas , Hussein Ahmed M. A. , Abdelfattah Mostafa G.
Published: December 2024

Lepidium meyenii (Maca) is a plant that has nutritional benefits and increases the effectiveness of male reproduction. In this study, oxidative stress‐exposed New Zealand rabbits were used to assess the ameliorative effects of daily Maca ingestion on testicular and epididymal tissues as well as the quality of fresh and frozen/thawed sperm. Twenty‐four 40‐week‐old, healthy New Zealand white male rabbits were divided into four groups. The first group consumed tap water and served as a control. The second group was given 300 mg of Maca daily in capsules. The third group drank water containing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) at a concentration of 1%. Finally, the fourth group consumed H2O2 and Maca daily. The ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, vitality, motility and velocity of the H2O2 group were considerably lower than those of the other groups. Frozen/thawed spermatozoa showed more dramatic decreases in motility and velocity as a result of H2O2 consumption. The plasma concentrations of testosterone and total antioxidant capacity were also lowest in the H2O2‐treated rabbits, while malondialdehyde levels were highest. Exposure to H2O2 increased collagen deposition between ST and epididymal ducts which induced testicular and epididymis fibrosis. In addition, the spermatogenic and epididymal epithelial cells exhibited signs of apoptosis, degeneration, vacuolation and a reduction in height. Maca intake attenuated most of the damaging effects of H2O2 ingestion‐induced oxidative stress. Furthermore, H2O2‐treated rabbits had modest nuclear androgen receptor positivity, unlike those in the Maca group. The number of Leydig cells significantly increased with daily Maca intake. In conclusion, daily intake of Maca improved reproductive performance and mitigated the damaging effects of oxidative stress on testicular and epididymal functions in New Zealand rabbits.
Prednisolone pharmacokinetics in dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy
Authors: Jablonski Sara A. , Strohmeyer Jessica L. , Buchweitz John P. , Lehner Andreas F. , Langlois Daniel K.
Published: December 2024

Background

It is unknown if glucocorticoid malabsorption contributes to the approximate 50% treatment failure rate in dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE).

Objective

To compare pharmacokinetics (PK) of orally administered prednisolone in dogs with PLE vs healthy controls.

Animals

Fourteen dogs with well‐characterized PLE and 7 control dogs.

Methods

Prospective case‐controlled study. Dogs were treated with 1 mg/kg prednisolone PO once daily for approximately 3 weeks. Venous blood samples were collected at set timepoints before and after prednisolone administration on the first (T1) and final (T2) study days. Total and non‐protein bound serum prednisolone concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography tandem‐mass spectrometry, and pharmacokinetics variables were derived from the drug concentration data. Pharmacokinetics variables were compared between PLE and control dogs and between PLE short‐term responders and non‐responders.

Results

The PLE dogs had a shorter half‐life of the terminal slope than control dogs (harmonic mean of 1.3 vs 1.8 hours; P = .05) whereas the percentage of serum prednisolone that was non‐protein bound was higher in PLE dogs than in control dogs (median of 15.7% vs 6.7%; P = .02) at T1. Total prednisolone drug exposures and maximum total serum drug concentrations did not differ between PLE and control dogs at T1 or T2, nor did they differ between short‐term responders and non‐responders within the PLE population (P > .05 for all comparisons).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Overall drug exposures are similar between PLE dogs and healthy controls. Glucocorticoid malabsorption is unlikely to be a common cause of treatment failure in dogs with PLE.
Effect of refrigeration, room temperature, and processing time on serum immunofluorescent antibody titers for Sarcocystis neurona
Authors: Valderrama‐Martinez Claudia , Packham Andrea , Zheng Shichen , Smith Woutrina , Plancarte Magdalena , Aleman Monica
Published: December 2024

Background

Evaluating antibody titers for Sarcocystis neurona for the diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis from serum samples is a common practice. However, ensuring timely and proper refrigeration is not always possible.

Objectives

To evaluate immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) titers for S. neurona from serum samples stored at room temperature and 4°C.

Samples

Twenty‐two serum samples.

Methods

Prospective longitudinal study. Two serum aliquots of 1 mL each were stored at room temperature (20‐23.3°C) and 4°C. The unrefrigerated aliquot was immediately tested for IFA titers. Both aliquots were retested on Days 5 and 10 after collection. A paired t test was used to compare IFA titers at different time points.

Results

There was no significant difference between IFA titers from baseline with those stored at room temperature at Days 5 (P = .741, 95% CI [−56.83, 78.65]), 10 (P = .677, 95% CI [−50.01, 75.46]), and between 5 and 10 days (P = 0.949, 95% CI [−57.50, 61.14]). There was no significant difference from baseline with those stored at 4°C for Days 5 (P = .964, 95% CI [−81.81, 85.45]), 10 (P = 0.573, 95% CI [−109.4, 62.15]), and between 5 and 10 days (P = .5, 95% CI [−102.6, 51.67]). There was no statistical difference between samples stored at room temperature and 4°C (P = .688, CI [−55.51, 37.33]) on Days 5 and 10 (P = .104, CI [−80.8, 8.07]).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Immunofluorescent antibody test titers for S. neurona are stable for up to 10 days at room temperature and 4°C.
Evaluation of texture, sensory, and fillet color traits in channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus), blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus), and the hybrid catfish (channel catfish ♀ × blue catfish ♂)
Authors: Johnson Andrew , Morey Amit , Su Baofeng , Coogan Michael , Hettiarachchi Darshika , Alston Veronica , Xing De , Wang Jinhai , Li Shangjia , Hasin Tasnuba , Lu Cuiyu , Wang Wenwen , Shang Mei , Bern Logan , Dunham Rex
Published: December 2024

Despite catfish being the dominant freshwater aquaculture product in the United States, catfish texture and sensory evaluation are understudied compared with other aquaculture species, and very few studies have been conducted to evaluate these traits in catfish. Texture, sensory, carcass yield, flavor, visceral fat deposition, gonadal development, and fillet color analyses were conducted on four size classes, small (<0.68 kg), medium (0.68–0.92 kg), large (0.93–1.75 kg), and extra‐large (>1.75 kg), for channel catfish (n = 456) (Ictalurus punctatus), blue catfish (n = 78) (I. furcatus), and hybrid catfish (n = 195) (channel catfish ♀ × blue catfish ♂). Within genetic type comparisons indicated that the texture traits, hardness, and chewiness and the sensory trait toughness increased with increasing size in hybrid catfish and channel catfish but were the most pronounced in channel catfish. Overall, channel catfish had the firmest fillets based on several attributes. Blue catfish were found to have differences among texture traits between the extra‐large size class and the three remaining size classes, but overall size had less of an effect compared with the channel catfish and hybrid catfish. A trend of paternal predominance was observed as the hybrid catfish was more similar to the blue catfish than the channel catfish. Hybrid catfish had the highest fillet percentage. This study is the first large‐scale analysis of texture and sensory traits within two catfish species and their interspecific hybrid at different sizes and highlights the differences in commercially important texture and sensory traits.
The role of Intellectual Property as a tool for business development in the informal economy of Ghana
Authors: Sackey Nancy Ama , Boahen Eunice Adu , Sackey Emmanuel
Published: December 2024

Innovation has become one of the main drivers of economic growth and development making its protection the focus of contemporary economic strategies. Intellectual Property (IP) protects and promotes innovation. The IP system strives to create an environment where creativity and innovation thrive by finding a suitable equilibrium between the interests of innovators and the broader public interest. Although IP has been shown to play a particularly important role in formal‐economy innovation, its role in the informal economy (IE) has been less explored. This study therefore sought to interrogate the utilisation of IP in the IE of Ghana and the role it plays in business development and competitiveness. This was achieved by determining innovative capacity, IP knowledge uptake/awareness, utilisation and challenges as well as discussing the policy approaches and institutional mechanisms necessary to promote growth and development of the IE for national gain. A qualitative research design was adopted and using the purposive sampling method, a sample of 100 respondents from two metropolitan districts in Ghana was selected. The findings revealed that 72% of the informal businesses studied had developed new products, processes or methods. Although 53% of the respondents had heard of or were conscious of the existence of some words relating to IP such as ‘copyright’ and ‘trademarks’, the respondents had little practical understanding of IP as a subject matter relevant for business. Only 19% out of the total number of respondents had acquired formal IP rights while most of the businesses employed other appropriation mechanisms outside of the use of conventional IP tools in protecting knowledge and innovation. Challenges to IP acquisition identified include financial constraints, lack of appreciation for the value of IP for business and the difficulty in meeting registration requirements. The study concluded that the IE is innovative and the utilisation of various IP tools such as trademarks, industrial designs, copyright and utility models were identified to be desirable to be employed in the pursuit for business development. It is recommended that decision making bodies such as the national IP office must establish effective policies aimed at promoting awareness and utilisation of IP rights in the IE. The government should also institute incentives such as cost waivers that are needed to stimulate innovation and creativity and create an enabling environment that supports the acquisition of IP for development and growth of the IE.
Tick‐borne pathogens from ruminant ticks in a Mediterranean ecosystem from Eastern Spain
Authors: Masià‐Castillo María Teresa , Maiques‐Rodriguez Enrique , Martínez‐Alfaro Ángela , García‐Bacete Iris , Ingresa‐Capaccioni Sofía , Ahuir‐Baraja Ana Elena , Alarcón‐Elbal Pedro María , Garijo‐Toledo María Magdalena , Sansano‐Maestre Jose
Published: December 2024

Vector‐borne diseases represent various sicknesses that are increasingly significant in human and veterinary health. Among the zoonotic agents transmitted by ticks, infections caused by the intracellular pathogens from the Anaplasmataceae family and piroplasmids (Babesia/Theileria spp.) are particularly notable due to the substantial economic losses they cause in the livestock sector. A study was carried out to assess the prevalence of these pathogens in ticks from ruminants in the province of Valencia (Eastern Iberian Peninsula). Between 2019 and 2022, 1674 ticks were collected from 163 domestic and wild ruminants. The tick species were identified using molecular and morphological features and included Rhipicephalus spp. (Rhipicephalus bursa and Rhipicephalus sanguineus) (88.7%), Haemaphysalis sulcata (5.9%), Ixodes ricinus (3.6%) and Dermacentor marginatum (1.2%). The Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica) was found to be at greater risk of infestation by Haemaphysalis compared to other ruminants. Polimerase Chain Reaction (PCR) analysis was performed on 108 individual ticks from different hosts, with 16.7% testing positive for members of the Anaplasmataceae family and 39.8% for Theileria spp. Sequencing of 10 positive samples from each pathogen group revealed the presence of Anaplasma ovis, Anaplasma platys, Ehrlichia spp., Theileria ovis and Theileria capreoli. No Anaplasma phagocytophilum or Babesia spp. were detected. Further research is essential for improved management of ticks and the diseases they transmit in the study area.
Behavior‐change lifestyle interventions for the treatment of obesity in children and adolescents: A scoping review
Authors: Li Liubai , Sun Feng , Du Jian , Li Zhixia , Chen Tianjiao , Shi Xuanyu
Published: December 2024

Behavior‐change lifestyle interventions are fundamental in children and adolescent obesity management. This scoping review discusses optimal behavior‐change lifestyle interventions in the treatment of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents. A literature search on diet, physical activity, and behavioral intervention for obesity treatment in children and adolescents aged 0–19 years was conducted in the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (OVID), EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Systematic reviews and meta‐analyses with randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English from June 2016 to November 2022 were retrieved to identify recent advancements. Obesity outcomes included body weight, body mass index (BMI), BMI z‐score, and fat percentage, among others. The 28 located reviews included: four studies on diet therapy; five on physical activity (exercise training); one on sedentary activities; 18 on multicomponent behavior‐change lifestyle interventions, including three that incorporated gaming; three with eHealth, mobile health (mHealth), or telehealth, with one in each category; and two on motivational interviewing. Behavior‐change lifestyle interventions to reduce obesity in children and adolescents were associated with moderate effects, with low‐quality evidence for diet therapy and high‐quality evidence for exercise training, both for weight or BMI reduction. Long‐term intensive multicomponent behavioral interventions with parental involvement demonstrated better effects.
Computer‐Aided High Tibial Osteotomy—A Comparative Study of Commonly Used 3D Printing Technology and Navigation Application
Authors: Chui Elvis Chun‐Sing , Mak Kyle Ka‐Kwan , Ng Randy Hin‐Ting , Fung Ericsson Chun‐Hai , Chan Mei‐Shuen , Yue Kai , Lau Lawrence Chun‐Man , Chan Clifford Long‐Fung , Yau Edmond Wing‐Fung , Zhao Wei , Su Xiuyun , Zhang Jin , Xu Jianglong , Sang Hongxun , Pei Guoxian , Cheung Louis Wing‐Hoi , Law Sheung‐Wai , Ong Michael Tim‐Yun , Yung Patrick Shu‐Hang
Published: December 2024

Background

High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a surgical procedure for treating certain knee conditions. Proper execution of HTO can preserve joint function and delay or avoid the need for total knee replacement. This study compared different 3D printing techniques (fused deposition modeling, selective laser sintering, and direct metal laser sintering) and a navigation system for their suitability in assisting HTO surgeries.

Methods

Tibial saw‐bones were used as models, and surgical guides and the navigation system were employed during the procedures. Six parameters (planning time, manufacturing time, delivery time, material cost, operation time, and accuracy) were evaluated. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t‐test were used for the analysis.

Results

The results showed that the metal surgical guides had the highest accuracy (angle differences mean, 2.4°) and operation time (mean 9.75 min), followed by plastic guides, classic guides, and the navigation system. The differences in accuracy were attributed to factors like rigidity, melting point, and errors during incisions.

Conclusions

The study recommended metal surgical guides as the best option for assisting HTO due to their accuracy and operation time. And the results have implications for orthopedic surgeons performing HTO surgeries, as they can use this information to improve postoperative outcomes, such as mechanical axis alignment and quality of life for HTO patients.
Utilization of 3D‐Printed Customized Uncemented Stem Prostheses for Revision of Aseptic Loosening in the Distal Femoral Cemented Prostheses: Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Hou Zi‐Wei , Zheng Kai , Xu Ming , Yu Xiu‐Chun
Published: December 2024

Objective

Aseptic loosening (AL) is a common mechanical complication following reconstruction of the distal femoral cemented prosthesis (DFCP), often resulting in severe bone loss, which complicates prosthesis revision. 3D‐printed personalized implants represent an emerging solution for the reconstruction of complex bone defects. This study aimed to investigate the early therapeutic effects of using a 3D‐printed, customized, uncemented stem prosthesis for revising aseptic AL in DFCP.

Methods

From June 2021 to December 2022, a retrospective review was conducted on six consecutive patients who underwent revision surgery due to AL of the DFCP with a 3D‐printed customized uncemented stem prosthesis. The study included four male and two female patients, with an average age of 58 ± 11 (range: 46–75) years. All six patients had previously undergone limb salvage surgery using a cemented megaprosthesis after tumor resection. Preoperative imaging evaluation was performed for all patients, and the personalized design of the prostheses was achieved through 3D printing based on CT imaging data. Regular clinical and radiographic follow‐up was conducted postoperatively, with the main outcome measures being oncological outcomes, prosthesis survival, osseointegration, complications, and lower limb function.

Results

All patients successfully underwent surgery and were followed up for a mean duration of 30.33 ± 6.15 (range: 24–38) months. All patients were alive at the last follow‐up, with no tumor recurrence or distant metastasis. No complications such as infection, loosening, or fracture of the prosthesis occurred. Osseointegration was satisfactory, with a mean MSTS score of 26 (range: 20–28) points.

Conclusion

3D‐printed, customized, uncemented stem prosthesis exhibit immediate initial stability and reliable biocompatibility. Early clinical outcomes are satisfactory, making them an effective method for revision AL of DFCP.
Curve Behavior of Distal Segments After Posterior‐Only Hemivertebra Resection for Congenital Cervicothoracic Scoliosis
Authors: Li Yang , Zhu Zezhang , Liu Wanyou , Mao Saihu , Liu Zhen , Sun Xu , Qiu Yong , Shi Benlong
Published: December 2024

Study Design

A retrospective and consecutive study.

Objective

To demonstrate the curve evolution of distal non‐structural compensatory curves in patients with congenital cervicothoracic hemivertebra (CTH) scoliosis undergoing posterior‐only hemivertebra resection and to propose the possible mechanisms of this specific phenomenon.

Summary of Background Data

Though the spinal alignment could be well corrected via posterior hemivertebra resection in CTH patients, the high prevalence of distal curve progression was remarkable. However, the curve behavior of distal non‐structural compensatory curves and its possible mechanisms were unclear.

Methods

This study retrospectively reviewed a consecutive series of CTH patients undergoing posterior‐only hemivertebra resection with a minimum 24 months follow‐up. The parameters measured in coronal plane included local scoliosis, clavicle angle, head shift, and the Cobb angle of distal unfused segments. The distal curve was considered as an emerging scoliosis (ES) if with more than 20° progression and the apex of distal curve no less than 2 levels away from the lower instrumented vertebra.

Results

A total of 51 CTH patients with a mean age of 8.5 ± 3.8 years at surgery and a mean 38.0 ± 5.3 months follow‐up were recruited. The correction of local scoliosis and clavicle angle was statistically significant (p < 0.05 for all). The distal compensatory curve was 11.8 ± 5.3° before surgery and 6.5° ± 4.1° after surgery (p < 0.001), which was slightly increased to 11.6° ± 10.9° (p = 0.002) at the latest follow‐up. During follow‐up, the increase of distal compensatory curve was significantly correlated with the change in clavicle angle (r = 0.49, p = 0.038). The ES was observed in 10 patients (19.6%) with an average value of 28.0 ± 2.1° at diagnosis, including 7 patients within 6 months and 3 patients after 5 years postoperatively. The mean value of ES was 31.9° ± 3.1° at the latest follow‐up, while no patients required revision surgery. The ES was classified into compensatory and idiopathic types according to the typical curve behaviors. The compensatory ES usually presented within 6 months after operation and was responsible for further reconstruction of head and shoulder balance. While the idiopathic ES occurred at adolescent which may be related to the rapid body growth.

Conclusions

Distal compensatory curve had a tendency toward slight progression during follow‐up in CTH patients with posterior hemivertebra resection surgery. The prevalence of emerging scoliosis was 19.6% and the typical compensatory and idiopathic curve behavior were firstly proposed. Close and longitudinal follow‐up was thus highly recommended for CTH patients with posterior HV resection surgery.
Modifiable Risk Factors for Breast Cancer: Insights From Systematic Reviews
Authors: Li Xuehua , Zhang He , Yang He , Song Yingli , Zhang Fengpei , Wang Aiping
Published: December 2024

Objective

To conduct a comprehensive review of reversible factors associated with breast cancer, with the aim of offering insights for the creation of early intervention strategies for breast cancer prevention.

Methods

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases were systematically searched to collect systematic reviews and meta‐analyses related to breast cancer risk. Searches were limited to literature published from the inception of each database up to May 1, 2024. Two investigators independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the methodological quality and evidence synthesis of the studies included in our review.

Results

We included 31 systematic reviews in our analysis, and breast cancer risk factors were divided into four categories: diet and lifestyle habits, reproductive and familial factors, body weight and physical activity, and environmental and miscellaneous factors.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that a high‐fat diet, low intake of dietary fiber, alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity are linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Conversely, physical activity and breastfeeding appear to lower breast cancer risk. However, the methodological and evidence quality of the reviewed studies was generally low, necessitating caution in the application of these findings. Additionally, there is a need for more research into lifestyle interventions to better develop and advocate for effective breast cancer prevention strategies.
Community‐Engaged Insights: Understanding the Housing Needs of Rural Caregivers During Hospital Treatment
Authors: Owens Jennifer A. , Bush Angie , Campbell Peter , Ward Roger J. , Lilly Flavius R. W.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study explored the experiences of rural caregivers who require temporary housing during hospital treatment when healthcare is not available in their home communities. Understanding these experiences can identify challenges and inform solutions for improving rural access to healthcare.

Methods

We conducted a community‐engaged qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews with caregivers who stayed at a healthcare hospitality house in Charlotte, NC. Data were collected through virtual interviews in the fall of 2023 and analyzed by three independent reviewers using thematic analysis.

Findings

Caregivers faced significant financial, logistical, and emotional challenges associated with accessing healthcare far from home. Financial burdens were notable, with substantial out‐of‐pocket expenses despite reduced costs from the hospitality house. Proximity to hospitals was crucial, with participants favoring hospitality houses over hotels for their convenience and security. Emotional support from peers provided meaningful social bonds and alleviated feelings of isolation. Practical amenities, such as laundry facilities and kitchens, eased the daily living obligations. Participants also highlighted the need for advocacy and coordination in navigating care logistics.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight key themes showcasing the challenges faced by rural caregivers experiencing a health crisis and who must travel to access healthcare outside their home communities. Medical housing can serve multifaceted social needs during a health crisis and support the interconnectedness of financial, emotional, and practical aspects of healthcare access. Future research should explore broader and more diverse samples and continue to consider community‐engaged approaches to deepen the understanding of health‐related social needs needed to access healthcare.
A promising application of biodegradable glue to improve the efficiency of biocrust inoculation on mining tailings in Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Mateus F. , Santos Pablo O. , Oliveira Guilherme F. , Trajano Gabriella O. , Maciel‐Silva Adaíses S.
Published: December 2024

The Fundão dam failure in Brazil stands as one of the most significant environmental disasters in global mining, causing extensive harm to soils and native vegetation. Despite ongoing restoration efforts, the potential of photosynthetic cryptogamic pioneer organisms, such as biocrusts, remains largely untapped. This study explores the inoculation of moss‐dominated biocrusts in mining tailings using a novel biodegradable glue technique. We began by assessing the diversity of mosses naturally occurring in these tailings, identifying six species. Among them, Hyophila involuta (Hook.) A. Jaeger emerged as the most suitable species for inoculation experiments. We compared the inoculation of biocrusts within the biodegradable glue bed to direct soil inoculation. Our findings revealed that 94.5% of the inoculated biocrusts adhered to the glue bed after 75 days, demonstrating the technique's global potential in overcoming challenges associated with moss inoculation. We emphasize the need for further research into the long‐term effects of biodegradable glue‐bed application on biocrust sustainability across different ecosystems, while also implementing habitat improvements to mitigate other environmental stress.
“I Say I'm Kind of Out”: An Insider Qualitative Study of Queer Medical Students
Authors: Breheny Cate Goldwater , Lee Dominic , Ly Daniel , Oliver Holly , Bi Anbreen , Bull Stephanie
Published: December 2024

Background

United Kingdom Queer medical students' experiences have only been explored in depth in one previous study, despite longstanding calls to address National Health Service queerphobia. The study aims to combine our participants' data with personal insights from the Queer medical student research team to both record Queer medical students' experiences and provide practical actions that can promote support, inclusivity and celebration for Queer medical students.

Methods

Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 12 participants across three medical schools in England and Scotland. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted. Insider insights were combined with analysis to generate practical advice for educators.

Results

Participants had a broad range of Queer identities, including non‐binary, bisexual and asexual identities. Four themes were identified, as well as a table of practical advice:

Developing a unified Queer medical student identity: the cognitive and emotional process of aligning Queer and medical student identities;

A culture of discrimination: actions occurring at cultural, system and individual levels that result in negative queerphobic experiences;

A counterculture of support: representation and support provided by Queer faculty and doctors and Queer friends, and in curriculum material;

Belonging and not belonging: thoughts and feelings of acceptance and value within academic, clinical and social environments.

Discussion

Queer medical students continue to experience discrimination despite calls for change. We suggest a deeper cultural reimagination of belonging as a Queer medical student, alongside practical support from educators to create this, is needed to improve Queer medical students' experiences.
Prioritising Competencies in Clinician Educator Training in Residency Programmes
Authors: Ratan Bani M. , Appelbaum Nital P. , Boedeker Peter J. , McNeil Sara G. , Hausmann Robert C. , Turner Teri L.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Although Clinician Educator Tracks (CETs) have been developed for postgraduate trainees, more clarity is needed regarding which competencies are most relevant to resident and fellow physicians (housestaff) seeking to become Clinician Educators (CEs).

Methods

We used the Clinician Educator Milestones, an established framework for competencies at the faculty level, to perform a targeted needs assessment at a large academic institution from April–May 2023. Educational leaders in undergraduate (UME), graduate (GME) and senior medical education (SME) leadership roles were asked to prioritise the Clinician Educator Milestones subcompetencies for a 1‐year track. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were performed; text comments underwent content analysis.

Results

Of the 285 leaders, 118 (41%) completed the survey. The average length in educational leadership was 6.9 ± 5.6 years, with 33% having formal education training, 23% representing surgical specialities and 17% in SME roles. The subcompetencies of learner assessment and feedback were prioritised highest (86%), while change management was prioritised lowest (23%). Respondents in SME roles compared to UME and GME roles or those in educational leadership ≥ 6 years compared to < 6 years prioritised professionalism. Respondents without formal education training prioritised medical education scholarship more often than those with training. Surgical respondents more often prioritised administrative skills than nonsurgical respondents. Open‐ended comments were generally positive towards a CET for housestaff, suggesting a hybrid format with flexible scheduling.

Conclusions

Teaching‐oriented subcompetencies were highly prioritised for a CET targeted at housestaff. The prioritisation choices offer guidance for a CE's progression through the subcompetencies.
Internal Medicine Student Chief Elective
Authors: Newman Jessica R. , Rouse Michael , Davies Gage , Bisarya Roshan , Nguyen Emma , Fink Jennifer
Published: December 2024

Background

With increasing patient care responsibilities, administrative work and education demands, physicians may find it challenging to provide high‐quality and engaging clinical education to third‐year medical students on clerkships. Fourth‐year students in the role of near‐peer teachers can help fill this role, but they often also have competing responsibilities.

Approach

A 4‐week Internal Medicine Student Chief (Student Chief) elective was created, designed such that fourth‐year students would apply for dedicated time to serve as student leaders, coaches and educators for the third‐year students on the Internal Medicine clerkship. They were provided an asynchronous medical education curriculum and conducted their own Medicine subject exam reviews, case conferences and feedback sessions.

Evaluation

Course evaluations by clerkship students did not detect a significant difference between the “quality” of the Internal Medicine clerkship and the “amount of formative feedback” from pre−post Student Chief elective introduction. Clerkship students' feedback regarding their interactions with and the ratings of the Student Chief, however, were excellent. Evaluations by the Student Chief suggested that the course provided rich opportunities for students interested in medical education to learn and practice skills in teaching, mentoring and coaching of Internal Medicine clerkship students.

Implications

Given overwhelmingly positive feedback, the Student Chief elective has continued. Student Chief responsibilities evolved based on feedback, and the Student Chiefs themselves develop their own learning goals for their experience. Future studies could include a more longitudinal evaluation of the program, expanding the scope of the Student Chief experience to other specialties and publication of an implementation toolkit.
The Family Anesthesia Experience (FAX): Implementing a Social Support–Focused Wellness Programme Across Multiple Residency Programmes
Authors: Martinelli Susan M. , Tran Thanh N. , Canter Courtney , Isaak Robert S. , Afroze Farzana , Mulaikal Teresa A. , Ladlie Beth , Jain Ankit , Willie Chelsea , Stahl David L. , Blanchard Erin , Zisblatt Lara , Hoefnagel Amie L. , Marshall Julie M. , Collins Stephen , Keneally Ryan J. , Martin Timothy W. , Chen Fei
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Lack of social support negatively impacts medical trainees' wellness. Programmes to educate medical trainees and their support persons (SPs) have been developed to improve resident wellness, but implementation of these programmes at other institutions remains unclear. We aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of implementing the Family Anesthesia Experience (FAX) programme across multiple institutions and to assess the programme's utility.

Methods

FAX includes didactics on wellness, burnout, substance use disorder and institutional resources; a panel of senior residents and their SPs; and small‐group simulations of airway management, common procedures and a high‐fidelity intraoperative code. We assessed the programme qualitatively using semistructured interviews of 20 first year anaesthesiology residents and 20 SPs. Data analysis was performed via a content analysis approach.

Results

Twelve anaesthesiology programmes of varying size and geographic locations implemented FAX with minor adaptations. Minimal direct costs were incurred for the virtual programme. Participants enjoyed the event overall. Content analysis showed that FAX improved SPs' understanding of residency and communication between SPs and residents, had minimal impact on SPs' stress, reduced residents' interpersonal stress with SPs and modified perceptions on wellness and burnout. We developed a conceptual model in which we propose SPs' understanding and empathy for their residents would improve through FAX, which may improve communication with and support for residents.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that FAX can be implemented at varying anaesthesiology residency programmes. Family‐oriented educational events like FAX may be an effective approach to improve SPs' understanding of a resident's role, thereby increasing social support for residents.
Groups acting on veering pairs and Kleinian groups
Authors: Baik Hyungryul , Jung Hongtaek , Kim KyeongRo
Published: December 2024

We show that some subgroups of the orientation‐preserving circle homeomorphism group with invariant veering pairs of laminations are hyperbolic 3‐orbifold groups. On the way, we show that from a veering pair of laminations, one can construct a loom space (in the sense of Schleimer–Segerman) as a quotient. Our approach does not assume the existence of any 3‐manifold to begin with, so this is a geometrization‐type result, and supersedes some of the results regarding the relation among veering triangulations, pseudo‐Anosov flows, taut foliations in the literature.
Filtering the beam from an ionic liquid ion source
Authors: Storey Alexander C. G. , Sabouri Aydin , Khanna Rohit , Ahmed Usama , Perez-Martinez Carla Sofia
Published: December 2024

Ionic liquid ion sources (ILIS) have been proposed as a source of alternative ion chemistries for surface etching, focused ion beams, and secondary ion mass spectrometry. These ion sources produce polydisperse ion beams containing several solvated ion species with a distribution of energies, and it is necessary to filter the ion beam to obtain monoenergetic beams with a single ion chemistry as required by nanomanufacturing and analytical applications. In this work, a Wien filter has been designed, built, and tested for use with an ILIS using the liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate, or EMI-FAP. comsol multiphysics simulations have been used to validate the design. The full and unfiltered ion beams have been characterized using time-of-flight mass spectrometry and retarding potential analysis, and these measurements confirm that the filter is effective in isolating monomer ions from heavier ion species in the beam.
Testing the necessity of complex numbers in traditional quantum theory with quantum computers
Authors: Lancaster Jarrett L. , Palladino Nicholas M.
Published: December 2024

A recent experiment testing the necessity of complex numbers in the standard formulation of quantum theory is recreated using IBM quantum computers. To motivate the experiment, we present a basic construction for real-valued quantum theory. The real-valued description is shown to predict correlations identical to those of complex-valued quantum mechanics for two types of Bell tests based on the Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt inequality. A slight modification to one test, however, results in different predictions for the real- and complex-valued constructions. While noisier devices are incapable of delivering convincing results, it is shown that certain devices possess sufficiently small error rates to falsify real-valued formulations of quantum theory for composite states. The results obtained with quantum computers are consistent with published experiments. This work demonstrates the feasibility of using freely available quantum devices to explore foundational features of quantum mechanics with minimal technical expertise. Accordingly, this treatment could inspire novel projects for undergraduate students taking a course on quantum mechanics.
Esports Are Pretty Far From Bodhi Trees: Touch Grass for Performance and Well-Being
Authors: Horne George , Sharpe Benjamin T.
Published: December 2024

Nature exposure has been cross-culturally linked to psychological growth, spiritual awakening, recovery, and relaxation. Psychology research supports this, showing that nature exposure can benefit performance and well-being through improving mindfulness, sustained attention, and connection to nature. In stark contrast, esports environments can be drab, somber, and dark, with not even natural light permitted within the performance context. In the absence of nature exposure in esports psychology research or practice, we draw on existing educational and organizational psychology to encourage academics and psychologists to experiment with nature exposure, adding a few suggestions and guidelines of our own. By bringing life into esports performance environments, we look to sustainably provide a competitive edge to players and help their well-being bloom.
Durlobactam in combination with β-lactams to combat
Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Shin Eunjeong , Dousa Khalid M. , Taracila Magdalena A. , Bethel Christopher R. , Nantongo Mary , Nguyen David C. , Akusobi Chidiebere , Kurz Sebastian G. , Plummer Mark S. , Daley Charles L. , Holland Steven M. , Rubin Eric J. , Bulitta Jürgen B. , Boom W. Henry , Kreiswirth Barry N. , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: December 2024

Mycobacterium abscessus
(
Mab
) presents significant clinical challenges. This study evaluated the synergistic effects of a β-lactam and β-lactamase inhibitor combination against
Mab
and explored the underlying mechanisms. Synergy was assessed through MIC tests and time-kill studies, and binding affinities of nine β-lactams and BLIs to eight target receptors (L,D-transpeptidases [LDT] 1–5, D,D-carboxypeptidase, penicillin-binding protein [PBP] B, and PBP-lipo) were assessed using mass spectrometry and kinetic studies. Thermal stability and morphological changes were determined. Imipenem demonstrated high binding affinity to LDTs and PBPs, with extremely low inhibition constants (

K
i

,
app

; ≤0.002 mg/L for LDT1−2, ≤0.6 mg/L for PBPs), while cephalosporins, sulopenem, tebipenem, and amoxicillin exhibited moderate to low binding affinity. Durlobactam inactivated Bla
Mab
and LDT/PBPs more potently than avibactam. The

K
i,app

s of durlobactam for PBP B, PBP-lipo, and LDT2 were below clinically achievable unbound concentrations, while avibactam’s

K
i,app

for LDT/PBPs exceeded the clinical concentrations. Single β-lactam treatments resulted in minimal killing (~1 log
10
reduction). Although avibactam yielded no effect, combinations with avibactam showed a significant reduction (~4 log
10
CFU/mL). Durlobactam alone showed ~2 log
10
reduction, and when combined with imipenem or two β-lactams, durlobactam achieved near-eradication of
Mab
, surpassing the current therapy (amikacin + clarithromycin + imipenem/cefoxitin). Inactivation of PBP-lipo by sulopenem, imipenem, durlobactam, and amoxicillin (with avibactam) led to morphological changes, showing filaments. This study demonstrates the mechanistic basis of combinations therapy, particularly imipenem + durlobactam, in overcoming β-lactam resistance in
Mab
.
Patterns of spontaneous and induced genomic alterations in
Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Xiong Yuan-Ru , Fang Yuan-Chun , He Min , Li Ke-Jing , Qi Lei , Sui Yang , Zhang Ke , Wu Xue-Chang , Meng Liang , Li Ou , Zheng Dao-Qiong
Published: December 2024

This study explored the genomic alterations in
Yarrowia lipolytica
, a key yeast in industrial biotechnology, under both spontaneous and mutagen-induced conditions. Our findings reveal that spontaneous mutations occur at a rate of approximately 4 × 10
−10
events per base pair per cell division, primarily manifesting as single-nucleotide variations (SNVs) and small insertions and deletions (InDels). Notably, C-to-T/G-to-A transitions and C-to-A/G-to-T transversions dominate the spontaneous SNVs, while 1 bp deletions, likely resulting from template slippage, are the most frequent InDels. Furthermore, chromosomal aneuploidy and rearrangements occur, albeit at a lower frequency. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, methylmethane sulfonate (MMS), and Zeocin significantly enhances the rates of SNVs and alters their mutational spectra in distinct patterns. Notably, Zeocin-induced SNVs are predominantly T-to-A and T-to-G substitutions, often occurring within the 5′-TGT
*
−3′ motif (
*
denotes the mutated base). Additionally, Zeocin exhibits a higher potency in stimulating InDels compared to UV and MMS. Translesion DNA synthesis is implicated as the primary mechanism behind most Zeocin-induced SNVs and some InDels, whereas non-homologous end joining serves as the main pathway for Zeocin-mediated InDels. Intriguingly, the study identifies the gene
YALI1_E21053g
, encoding a protein kinase, as negatively associated with Zeocin resistance. Overall, our results not only deepened our knowledge about the genome evolution in
Y. lipolytica
but also provided reference to develop innovative strategies to harness its genetic potential.

IMPORTANCE

Yarrowia lipolytica
exhibits high environmental stress tolerance and lipid metabolism capabilities, making it a microorganism with significant industrial application potential. In this study, we investigated the genomic variation and evolutionary patterns of this yeast under both spontaneous and induced mutation conditions. Our results reveal distinctive mutation spectra induced by different mutagenic conditions and elucidate the underlying genetic mechanisms. We further highlight the roles of non-homologous end joining and translesion synthesis pathways in Zeocin-induced mutations, demonstrating that such treatments can rapidly confer drug resistance to the cells. Overall, our research enhances the understanding of how yeast genomes evolve under various conditions and provides guidance for developing more effective mutagenesis and breeding techniques.