bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WHAT IS RESPONSIBILITY TOWARD THE PAST? ETHICAL, EXISTENTIAL, AND TRANSGENERATIONAL DIMENSIONS
Authors: Elgabsi Natan
Published: September 2024

Today, there is a growing interest in the ethics of the human and social sciences, and in the discussions surrounding these topics, notions such as responsibility toward the past are often invoked. But those engaged in these discussions seldom acknowledge that there are at least two distinct logics of responsibility underlying many debates. These logics permeate a Western scholarly tradition but are seldom explicitly discussed. The two logics follow the Latin and Hebrew concepts of responsibility: spondeo and acharayut. The purpose of this article is to make an ethical argument: to explain, based on the work of Emmanuel Levinas and others, what kind of ethical‐existential logic of responsibility acharayut is and how it differs from and challenges other concepts of responsibility in moral philosophy and the human sciences. I am especially concerned with what this logic implies with regard to reading and writing about the past. Responsibility is not necessarily congruent with performing a scientific (historical) task or defending the (political, juridical) interests of a group of people. Instead, a “guiltless responsibility” to people of other generations points to something that I refer to as a transgenerational responsibility. I contrast this transgenerational responsibility to inherited guilt and related ideas of generational interconnectedness, which follow the logic of spondeo. Inherited guilt suggests that a responsible relation the past is to either identify with or blame a group of people in the past. Contrary to inherited guilt, a commitment to acharayut means constantly probing one's responsibility to people of the past (for their posterity) and people of the future (as their predecessors) precisely because people of the present are not people of the past or people of the future.
Rapid selection for increased dispersal rates by the endangered butterfly Phengaris (Maculinea) arion across restored landscapes
Authors: Simcox David J. , Meredith Sarah A. , Thomas Jeremy A.
Published: September 2024

When designing restorations for durable metapopulations of endangered butterflies, it is important to understand how frequently the adults mix between sites and their probability of colonising vacant patches unassisted by human translocations.

We analysed 43 examples of natural dispersal by Phengaris arion L. to restored sites in three regions following its reintroduction after extinction to the UK. We compared the years taken to reach restored habitats with the distance from a source colony, the number and density of P. arion on source sites, the size of source sites, the nature of the intervening matrix, summer temperatures, the incidence of drought and whether a more dispersive phenotype has evolved across restored landscapes.

Isolation of sites was the most important constraint on the colonisation of new habitats, followed by the number, but not the density, of P. arion on source sites. Emigration was more frequent in warm summers and when the habitat was degraded by drought, but neither factor remained significant in multifactorial analyses. A matrix of woodland between sites was a greater barrier to dispersal than open or mixed terrain, but again insignificant in multifactorial analyses.

A more mobile phenotype of P. arion has evolved while it exploited vacant habitat patches during its first 10–12 generations in the UK. Adults now fly twice as far to find new colonies as in the early years. We map the probabilities of linking restored sites with neighbouring populations in three former landscapes in the Cotswold Hills of Gloucestershire, UK.
Patient safety in the pandemic: Experiences of charge nurses
Authors: Ünal Aysun , Öncü Yasemin Ayhan , Arikan Emine
Published: September 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify charge nurses' experiences ensuring patient safety during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic.

Methods

The research was conducted with charge nurses between July 2021 and February 2022. Research data were collected using a semi‐structured interview with two main questions, six sub‐questions and an audio recording. Interviews were conducted with 12 charge nurses and lasted ≈30 min. The content analysis method was used to transfer the collected data to written documents and define them to analyse the individual interview data. Content analyses were conducted independently by three different researchers. Inclusion and exclusion criteria for content were established to ensure consistency among all researchers. Researchers independently developed a coding scheme for content analysis based on the research objectives and applied it to the content. Intercoder reliability was assessed with Cohen's kappa coefficient to measure the consistency of coding among researchers.

Results

Three main themes were identified as a result of the content analysis. The themes identified after independent examination by the three researchers were ‘ensuring safety and protection’, ‘sustaining motivation and resilience’ and ‘organizational restructuring and challenges’.

Conclusions

This study highlights the challenges faced by charge nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic and their critical role in maintaining patient safety. The findings emphasize the importance of organizational adaptability, continuous motivation and comprehensive risk management strategies. Charge nurses played a key role in enhancing safety measures and fostering a culture of resilience among healthcare staff. Moving forward, these insights should guide health policies and practices to better prepare for future public health crises, ensuring the safety of both patients and staff.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of diagnostic test accuracy in chronic wound's microbiology
Authors: Berenguer‐Pérez Miriam , Manzanaro‐García Nerea , González‐de la Torre Héctor , Durán‐Sáenz Iván , Hernández Martínez‐Esparza Elvira , Diaz Herrera Miguel Ángel , González Suárez Borja , Verdú‐Soriano José
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the diagnostic accuracy of non‐culture‐based methodologies for detecting microorganisms in chronic wounds.

Methods

We systematically reviewed studies that evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of alternative tests in chronic wound samples, excluding studies focused on animal samples or unrelated conditions. The search encompassed PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science databases, employing the QUADAS‐2 tool for risk of bias assessment. Our search included the PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science databases, and we assessed the risk of bias using the QUADAS‐2 tool. A meta‐analysis was conducted on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and colorimetric methods to determine sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio, and summary receiver‐operating characteristic (sROC) curves using a random‐effects model. For methods not suitable for quantitative synthesis, a narrative synthesis was performed.

Results

Nineteen studies involving various types of chronic wounds were analysed, revealing diverse diagnostic methods including fluorescence, PCR, colorimetry, voltammetry, electronic nose, biosensors, enzymatic methods, staining and microscopy. Combining fluorescence with clinical signs and symptoms (CSS) versus culture showed significant accuracy. Colorimetry demonstrated low sensitivity but high specificity, with a diagnostic odds ratio of 6.3. PCR generally exhibited good accuracy, although significant heterogeneity was noted, even in subgroup analyses.

Conclusions

This study identified a broad spectrum of diagnostic approaches, highlighting the superior diagnostic accuracy achieved when microbiological analysis is combined with clinical assessments. However, the heterogeneity and methodological variations across studies present challenges in meta‐analysis. Future research should aim for standardized and homogeneous study designs to enhance the assessment of diagnostic accuracy for alternative methods.
Effectiveness of integrated care models for stroke patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Beixue , Cai Jingyi , Zhou Lanshu
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Given that stroke is a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide, there is an urgent need for a coordinated healthcare approach to mitigate its effects. The objectives of this study were to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of stroke integrated care models and develop recommendations for a representative model.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The literature search identified randomized controlled trials comparing integrated care models with standard care for stroke patients. The included studies followed PICOs inclusion criteria. The qualitative analysis included creating a flowchart for the literature screening process, and tables detailing the basic characteristics of the included studies, the adherence to the ten principles and the results of the quality assessments. Subsequently, quantitative meta‐analytical procedures were conducted to statistically pool the data and quantify the effects of the integrated care models on stroke patients' health‐related quality of life, activities of daily living, and depression. The China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, Chongqing VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP), China Biology Medicine Disc (CBMDISC), Cochrane Library, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Google Scholar, and Clinical Trials were searched from inception to March 13, 2024.

Results

Of the 2547 obtained articles, 19 were systematically reviewed and 15 were included in the meta‐analysis. The integrated care models enhanced stroke patients' health‐related quality of life, ability to perform activities of daily living, and reduced depression. Adherence to the 10 principles varied: comprehensive services, patient focus, and standardized care delivery had strong implementation, while gaps were noted in geographic coverage, information systems, governance structures, and financial management.

Conclusion

Integrated care models improve outcomes for stroke patients and adherence to the 10 principles is vital for their implementation success. This study's findings call for a more standardized approach to implementing integrated care models, emphasizing the need for integrated services, patient‐centred care, and interdisciplinary collaboration, while also addressing the identified gaps in terms of integration efforts.

Clinical Relevance

This study provides evidence‐based recommendations on the most effective integrated care approaches for stroke patients, potentially leading to better patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and improved quality of life.
The Effect of Monobenzone Cream on Oxidative Stress and Its Relationship With Serum Levels of IL‐1β and IL‐18 in Vitiligo Patients
Authors: Khalid‐Meften Ahmed , Liaghat Mahsa , Yazdanpour Mohammad , Nabi‐Afjadi Mohsen , Hosseini Asieh , Bahreini Elham
Published: September 2024

Background

Monobenzyl ether hydroquinone (MEBHQ) is a cream that promotes the spread and evenness of skin patches in vitiligo. Our aim was to investigate the oxidative and inflammatory effects of this cream on vitiligo patients consuming MEBHQ.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted with three groups of 30 people from the control group, vitiligo patients before and after treatment. The percentage of vitiligo spots was determined by a specialist doctor. The levels of biochemical factors, oxidative stress profile and inflammatory factors were measured by enzymatic, colorimetric and ELISA methods, respectively.

Results

Vitiligo patients showed a high level of inflammation and oxidative stress compared to healthy people. Although after 3 months of using MBEHQ cream, the percentage of skin spots in vitiligo patients increased from an average of 63%–91% and the skin color became almost uniform, but it still increased the level of oxidative stress and inflammation in these patients. Although the level of oxidative stress increased significantly in these patients, there was no significant increase in the level of malondialdehyde. The lack of significant differences in the levels of biochemical factors between healthy people and vitiligo patients before and after using the treatment shows the absence of side effects.

Conclusion

The use of MBEHQ increased the size of skin spots and uneven skin color in vitiligo patients. Although MBEHQ did not show side effects such as diabetes, liver and kidney diseases, it increased the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines, which needs further study.
A Randomized, Participant‐ and Evaluator‐Blinded, Matched‐Pair, Prospective Study Comparing the Safety and Efficacy Between Polycaprolactone and Polynucleotide Fillers in the Correction of Crow's Feet
Authors: Choi Sun Young , Koh Young Gue , Yoo Kwang Ho , Han Hye Sung , Seok Joon , Kim Beom Joon
Published: September 2024

Background

Dermal fillers have gained widespread popularity for facial cosmetic enhancement and anti‐aging treatments. Recently, polycaprolactone (PCL) and polynucleotides (PN) fillers have emerged as promising options owing to their safety and long‐lasting effects.

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of a novel PCL‐based dermal filler (DLMR01) with purified PN filler (RJR: Rejuran) in correcting crow's feet wrinkles.

Materials and Methods

A randomized, evaluator‐blinded, prospective split‐face study was conducted with 218 healthy Asian participants. The primary outcome was in the improvement rate of the Crow's Feet Grading Scale (CFGS) at rest after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included the improvement rate of the CFGS at expression and rest at earlier time points, changes in CFGS, and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) assessment.

Results

The results showed that DLMR01 was not inferior to RJR in improving crow's feet wrinkles, with a significantly higher CGFS improvement rate at week 12. Both fillers demonstrated good safety profiles, with mild and tolerable adverse events. No serious adverse events were reported during the study period.

Conclusion

DLMR01, a PCL‐based dermal filler, showed effectiveness and safety in improving wrinkles described as crow's feet. The study suggests that DLMR01 could be a promising option for noninvasive anti‐aging treatments.
Assessing Skin Tear Knowledge Among Nurses: A Multicentre Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Wang Guandong , Wang Haibo , Wang Liang , Li Wenjuan , Xu Danyang , Chen Jinhao
Published: September 2024

Aims

To assess the knowledge of nurses in Chinese hospitals regarding skin tears, focusing on evaluating their understanding and proficiency in managing and preventing skin tears, exploring the impact of demographic and professional factors on their knowledge levels and identifying specific areas where additional training or education is needed.

Design

This study is a multicentre cross‐sectional survey conducted in the Henan province of China using a stratified cluster sampling method.

Methods

The study utilised the Chinese version of the Skin Tear Knowledge Assessment Instrument (OASES) for evaluating nurses' knowledge levels based on a questionnaire comprising 22 questions on the online platform Wenjuanxing (www.wjx.cn). All questions had to be answered, with only one option selectable per question. Response validity was ensured by excluding questionnaires that showed a clear response pattern, were completed in under 60 s, or scored 0 points. Descriptive analysis, item‐level analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were performed.

Results

A total of 1675 clinical nurses participated in this study. Age was a significant factor influencing skin tear knowledge, with older nurses (age, 41–60 vs. 18–40 years) demonstrating higher knowledge scores. Additionally, female nurses exhibited higher average knowledge scores compared to male nurses. Further, different departments, education levels, job titles and having completed relevant courses significantly influenced skin tear knowledge among nurses. However, on multivariate analyses, we found that working in the intensive care unit, having a higher education background and job title and having studied courses on wound, ostomy or incontinence were independent factors influencing knowledge on skin tear, indicating the need for targeted educational interventions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, targeted educational interventions and continuous professional development are essential to bridge the identified knowledge gaps among nurses in Chinese hospitals regarding skin tear management.

Reporting Method

The Strengthening the Report of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist guidelines were followed.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Enhancing nurses' knowledge and skills in skin tear management through targeted educational programmes could improve patient care quality, reduce the incidence of skin tears and promote better wound care outcomes in clinical settings.

Impact

This study addresses the problem of knowledge gaps in skin tear management among nurses. The main findings indicate varied understanding and significant factors influencing this knowledge. The research impacts nurses and patients in Chinese hospitals, emphasising the need for specialised training and professional development to improve skin tear management and patient care. No patient or public contribution.
Association between diabetes mellitus and miscarriage, recurrent miscarriage: A meta‐study
Authors: Miao Suying , Yang Liwei
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies provided inconsistent associations between diabetes mellitus (DM) and miscarriage, recurrent miscarriage (RM). Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the association between DM and miscarriage, specifically RM, through a meta‐analysis approach.

Methods

We searched for articles published before July 2023 in PubMed and Web of Science databases. STATA 12.0 software was used to compute all the results collected from included studies.

Results

DM was associated with a higher risk of miscarriage, RM (miscarriage: odds ratio [OR]/relative risk [RR] = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13 to 1.34; RM: OR/RR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.55 to 1.94). T1DM was associated with a higher risk of miscarriage (OR/RR = 1.16, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.26). Similarly, T2DM showed a higher risk of miscarriage (OR/RR = 1.44, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.68). Miscarriage, RM were associated with a higher risk of DM (miscarriage: OR/RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.19; RM: OR/RR = 1.14, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.20). Furthermore, miscarriage was found to be associated with a higher risk of T2DM (OR/RR = 1.08, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.11).

Conclusion

In conclusion, our meta‐analysis findings indicate a significant association between DM and miscarriages as well as RM. As a result, women with a history of miscarriage should consider regular monitoring of their metabolic health as a potential benefit. Nevertheless, it is important to note that further research is needed to validate the results of our study and shed light on the biological mechanisms underlying these associations.
Fe, Zn, and Mg stable isotope systematics of acapulcoite lodranite clan meteorites
Authors: Chernonozhkin Stepan M. , Pittarello Lidia , Hublet Genevieve , Claeys Philippe , Debaille Vinciane , Vanhaecke Frank , Goderis Steven
Published: September 2024

The processes of planetary accretion and differentiation, whereby an unsorted mass of primitive solar system material evolves into a body composed of a silicate mantle and metallic core, remain poorly understood. Mass‐dependent variations of the isotope ratios of non‐traditional stable isotope systems in meteorites are known to record events in the nebula and planetary evolution processes. Partial melting and melt separation, evaporation and condensation, diffusion, and thermal equilibration between minerals at the parent body (PB) scale can be recorded in the isotopic signatures of meteorites. In this context, the acapulcoite–lodranite meteorite clan (ALC), which represents the products of thermal metamorphism and low‐degree partial melting of a primitive asteroid, is an attractive target to study the processes of early planetary differentiation. Here, we present a comprehensive data set of mass‐dependent Fe, Zn, and Mg isotope ratio variations in bulk ALC species, their separated silicate and metal phases, and in handpicked mineral fractions. These non‐traditional stable isotope ratios are governed by mass‐dependent isotope fractionation and provide a state‐of‐the‐art perspective on the evolution of the ALC PB, which is complementary to interpretations based on the petrology, trace element composition, and isotope geochemistry of the ALC. None of the isotopic signatures of ALC species show convincing co‐variation with the oxygen isotope ratios, which are considered to record nebular processes occurring prior to the PB formation. Iron isotopic compositions of ALC metal and silicate phases broadly fall on the isotherms within the temperature ranges predicted by pyroxene thermometry. The isotope ratios of Mg in ALC meteorites and their silicate minerals are within the range of chondritic meteorites, with only accessory spinel group minerals having significantly different compositions. Overall, the Mg and Fe isotopic signatures of the ALC species analyzed are in line with their formation as products of high‐degree thermal metamorphism and low‐degree partial melting of primitive precursors. The δ66/64Zn values of the ALC meteorites demonstrate a range of ~3.5‰ and the Zn is overall isotopically heavier than in chondrites. The superchondritic Zn isotopic signatures have possibly resulted from evaporative Zn losses, as observed for other meteorite parent bodies. This is unlikely to be the result of PB differentiation processes, as the Zn isotope ratio data show no covariation with the proxies of partial melting, such as the mass fractions of the platinum group and rare earth elements.
Central venoplasty followed by ‘double guidewire railroad technique’ as a bailout strategy in difficult tunnelled dialysis catheter insertion
Authors: Sulaiman Shabna , Razik Abdul
Published: September 2024

End‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients frequently encounter challenges at the time of dialysis catheter insertion from concomitantly associated with thoracic central venous obstruction (TCVO). TCVO complicates the placement of tunnelled dialysis catheters (TDCs). In cases where TCVO is unexpectedly encountered and TDC insertion becomes difficult, central venoplasty followed by catheter reinsertion is required. This report details a novel technique to salvage a TDC that was trapped at the TCVO site after removal of the peel‐away sheath. We describe the case of a 67‐year‐old diabetic male ESRD patient on haemodialysis since 2017, with history of multiple prior accesses, who presented with acute thrombosis of his arteriovenous fistula. TDC placement was attempted via the left internal jugular vein (IJV). Angiography revealed severe stenosis at the left brachiocephalic vein‐superior vena cava confluence, necessitating venoplasty. Post‐venoplasty, the TDC could not be advanced past the IJV venous entry site due to unfavourable catheter tip profile. Utilising a double guidewire railroad technique, the TDC was successfully reinserted, ensuring functional dialysis. The technique carries potential risks, which mandates careful hemodynamic monitoring and prophylactic measures. In conclusion, percutaneous placement of a TDC following a central venoplasty is at times life‐saving in patients with exhausted peripheral vascular access and concomitant TCVO. In the absence of a peel‐away sheath, TDC reinsertion using a double guidewire railroad technique is a helpful technique for salvaging the catheter, especially in financially‐constrained settings.
A proactive phone intervention for older adults to address loneliness identified by a health plan
Authors: Hough Katrina A. , Tha Soe Han , Perissinotto Carla M. , Burnes Preston , Kotwal Ashwin A.
Published: September 2024

Social isolation and loneliness are associated with poor health and higher health care costs among older adults. Our objective was to determine if older adults identified as at risk for loneliness by a Medicare Advantage health plan could benefit from a proactive telephone support program. We conducted a mixed‐methods pilot efficacy study of outbound calls from an established community‐based telephone program to support older adults identified as at risk for loneliness. One hundred and twenty‐one older adults were enrolled and completed surveys at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Outcomes included loneliness (3‐item UCLA loneliness scale), depression (PHQ‐2 screen), anxiety (GAD‐2 screen), and unhealthy physical and mental health days (CDC Healthy Days Measure). Quantitative data were analyzed using multivariable mixed‐effects logistic regression, and open‐ended responses were analyzed thematically. Over 6 months, participants had reductions in loneliness (46% to 28%, p<0.001), depression (36% to 25%, p = 0.07), anxiety (63% to 43%, p = 0.004), unhealthy mental days (14 to 8, p<0.001), and unhealthy physical days (15 to 11, p<0.001). Participants reported high satisfaction with calls, and many felt the calls improved overall mood or health. Findings can inform trials to address loneliness through telephone support and partnerships between community‐based organizations and payors.
Cold atmospheric plasma activated media selectively affects human head and neck cancer cell lines
Authors: di Giacomo Viviana , Balaha Marwa , Pinti Morena , Di Marcantonio Maria Carmela , Cela Ilaria , Acharya Tirtha Raj , Kaushik Nagendra Kumar , Choi Eun Ha , Mincione Gabriella , Sala Gianluca , Perrucci Miryam , Locatelli Marcello , Perrotti Vittoria
Published: September 2024

Objective

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a novel approach for cancer treatment. It can be used to treat liquids—plasma‐activated media (PAM)—which are then transferred to the target as an exogenous source of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). The present study aimed at chemically characterizing different PAM and assessing their in vitro selectivity against head and neck cancer cells (HNC).

Methods

PAM were obtained by exposing 2 and 5 mL of cell culture medium to CAP for 5, 10 and 20 min at a 6 mm working distance. Anions kinetics was evaluated by ion chromatography. Cell proliferation inhibition, apoptosis occurrence, and cell cycle modifications were assessed by MTS and flow cytometry, on human epidermal keratinocyte (HaCaT) and HNC cell lines HSC3, HSC4 and A253.

Results

The 2 mL conditions showed a significant reduction in cell proliferation whereas for the 5 mL the effect was milder, but the time‐dependence was more evident. HaCaT were unaffected by the 5 mL PAM, indicating a selectivity for cancer cells.

Conclusions

The media chemical composition modified by CAP exposure influenced cell proliferation by modulating cell cycle and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, without affecting normal cells.
Malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia: Systematic review and comprehensive meta‐analysis
Authors: Pimenta‐Barros Liliana Aparecida , Ramos‐García Pablo , González‐Moles Miguel Ángel , Aguirre‐Urizar José Manuel , Warnakulasuriya Saman
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To update the current evidence on the malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia (OL), including all studies published worldwide on the subject, selected with the maximum rigor regarding eligibility.

Materials and Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus were searched for studies published before June‐2024, with no lower date limit. The risk of bias was analyzed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool for meta‐analyses of proportions. We carried out meta‐analyses, explored heterogeneity across subgroups and identified risk factors with potential prognostic value.

Results

Fifty‐five studies (41,231 with OL) were included. The pooled malignant transformation proportion for OL was 6.64% (95% CI = 5.21–8.21). The malignant transformation did not significantly vary by time periods (p = 0.75), 5.35% prior to 1978, 7.06% from 1979 to 2007 and 6.97% during more recent times. The risk factors that significantly had a higher impact on malignant transformation were the non‐homogeneous leukoplakias (RR = 4.23, 95% CI = 3.31–5.39, p < 0.001), the larger size (RR = 2.08, 1.45–2.96, p < 0.001), leukoplakia located on the lateral border of tongue (malignant transformation = 12.71%; RR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.48–2.95, p < 0.001), smoking (RR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.25–2.15, p < 0.001), and the presence of epithelial dysplasia (RR = 2.75, 95% CI = 2.26–3.35, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

OL presents a considerable malignant transformation probability that is especially increased in large non‐homogeneous lesions in smokers, located on the lateral border of the tongue, with epithelial dysplasia.
Changing climate, changing geographies?
Authors: Bulkeley Harriet , McFarlane Colin
Published: September 2024

Ever since climate change came to occupy a place on the research and policy landscape in the 1980s, geography and geographers have been at the forefront of understanding its dynamics and social, economic, ethical, and political consequences. In this collection, we explore how the geographical understanding of climate change has evolved over time. We reflect on what we consider to be the most significant contributions that geography has made to our understanding of climate change, how the discipline's approach to this issue has changed over time, the gaps and limits in our understanding, and what the future of climate‐changed geographies might be.
Treatment adherence and wellness, nutrition, and physical activity outcomes of diabetic patients with comorbid depression during the 18‐month follow‐up of the TELE‐DD study
Authors: Fernández‐Rodrigo María Teresa , Hoyo María Luisa Lozano‐del , Urcola‐Pardo Fernando , Subirón‐Valera Ana Belén , Rodríguez‐Roca Beatriz , Gracia‐Ruiz Diana Cecilia , Gómez‐Borao María Mercedes , Andaluz‐Funcia María Teresa , Artigas‐Alcázar Ana Belén , Roy‐Delgado Juan Francisco
Published: September 2024

Background

A good adherence to pharmacological treatment in chronic pathologies such as type 2 diabetes and clinical depression is essential to improve illness prognosis.

Aims

The main goal of the TELE‐DD study was to analyze the effectiveness of a telephone, psychoeducational, and individualized intervention carried out by nurses in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and comorbid clinical depression with prior nonadherence to pharmacological treatment. In this paper, we describe and analyze secondary outcomes of the trial intervention.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was used to assess the effectiveness of a telephonic intervention (IG) in n = 191 participants with a similar control group (CG). Adherence to pharmacological treatment was assessed using the patient's self‐perceived adherence questionnaire. In addition to clinical (HbAc1, HDL, LDL), physical (body mass index, blood pressure) and psychological measures (Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 affective state), and psychosocial distress due to Diabetes Distress Scale Questionnaire at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months of follow‐up were also analyzed.

Results

The proportion of “Total Adherents” in the IG was higher throughout the study. This was particularly true at month 18 of the intervention. Self‐perceived adherence rates increased by 27.1% in the IG and by 1.1% in the CG. Results of clinical and physical measures were higher in the IG than in the CG at month 18 of the intervention.

Linking Evidence to Action

The interview based on positive reinforcement as well as individualized attention and flexibility in making telephone calls and dissemination of the intervention in the media closest to the patients were key to achieving good participation and collaboration as well as continuity in adherence to treatment and self‐care.
The Influence of Speculation in Food and Commodities and the Impact of Futures Prices on Spot Prices- Evidence from two Behavioral Experiments
Authors: Conrad Christian A.
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the impact of speculation on commodity and food futures on spot prices. Econometric studies contradict each other, coming not to a clear empirical outcome. Therefore, we take an alternative methodological approach with two behavioral experiments. The outcome shows, that tendencies in futures prices influence the price-setting behavior of market players in the spot market in the same direction. Since futures prices had no direct influence on profits and there were no other influences, futures prices must have influenced the expectations of market participants psychologically. Speculation with futures prices thus has an influence on spot prices via expectations. When speculation involves commodities and food in the future market serving crucial real economic functions it can lead to substantial misallocations and damages, why speculation should be regulated.
REM sleep remains paradoxical: sub‐states determined by thalamo‐cortical and cortico‐cortical functional connectivity
Authors: Bastuji Hélène , Daoud Maëva , Magnin Michel , Garcia‐Larrea Luis
Published: September 2024

During paradoxical sleep (PS, aka REM sleep) the cerebral cortex displays rapid electroencephalographic activity similar to that of wakefulness, whereas in the posterior associative thalamus, rapid activity is interrupted by frequent periods of slow‐wave (delta) oscillations at 2–3 Hz, thereby dissociating the intrinsic frequency in thalamus and cortex. Here we studied the functional consequences of such a dissociation using intrathalamic and intracortical recordings in 21 epileptic patients, applying coherence analysis to examine changes in functional connectivity between the posterior thalamus (mainly medial pulvinar) and six cortical functional networks, and also between each cortical network with respect to the others. Periods of slow‐wave thalamic activity (‘delta PS’) were more prevalent than phases of ‘rapid PS,’ and the delta/rapid thalamic alternance did not overlap with the classical tonic/phasic dichotomy based on rapid eye movements. Thalamo‐cortical and cortico‐cortical functional connectivity significantly decreased during delta PS, relative to both rapid PS periods and to wakefulness. The fact that delta thalamic activity and low thalamo‐cortical binding coincided with a suppression of cortico‐cortical connectivity supports a crucial role for the posterior associative thalamus, and particularly the medial pulvinar, in ensuring trans‐thalamic communication between distant cortical areas. Disruption of such a trans‐thalamic communication during delta PS compromises the functional binding between cortical areas, and consequently might contribute to the alteration of perceptual experiences commonly reported during dreams.

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Key points

During paradoxical, or REM, sleep (PS), rapid thalamic activity is interrupted by frequent periods of slow delta waves at 2–3 Hz.

During these periods of thalamic delta activity there was a drastic drop of functional connectivity between associative thalamus and cortex, and also among different cortical networks.

The delta/rapid alternance did not overlap with the classically defined ‘tonic/phasic’ periods and therefore suggests a distinct dichotomy of functional states in PS.

Recurrent decrease in thalamo‐cortical and cortico‐cortical functional connectivity during PS may compromise the spatio‐temporal binding between cortical areas, which in turn could hinder the formation of coherent mental content during dreams.
ПРЕДВАРИТЕЛЬНЫЙ КРАТКИЙ АНАЛИЗ ВИДОВОГО СОСТАВА ФЛОРЫ КОСТАНАЙСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ НА ОСНОВЕ ГЕРБАРНЫХ МАТЕРИАЛОВ И ПОЛЕВЫХ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЙ
Authors: Абилева Г.А. , Пережогин Ю.В. , Какимжанова А.А. , Кобланова С.А.
Published: September 2024

В ходе предварительного изучения флоры Костанайской области, по материалам полевых исследований и камеральной обработки гербарного материала, собранного в течение 2023 года, выявлено 542 вида относящихся к 300 родам 83 семейств. Наибольшее количество видов содержат следующие семейства: Asteraceae Dumort. (86 видов), Fabaceae Lindl. (42 вида), Rosaceae Juss. (30 видов), Poaceae Barnhart (27 видов), Brassicaceae Burnett (26 видов), Ranunculaceae Juss. (22 вида), Polygonaceae Juss. (20 видов), Lamiaceae Martinov (19 видов), Caryophyllaceae Juss. (18 видов), Plantaginaceae Juss. (18 видов). Эти семейства состоят из 151 рода (50,3%), содержащих 308 видов (56,8%). Такая высокая доля видов 10 лидирующих семейств указывает на признаки бореальной флоры. Также как и доминирующее положение семейств Asteraceae (15,9%), Poaceae (5%), Rosaceae (5,5%) и Ranunculaceae (4,1%) характеризует бореальную флору Евразии, тогда как высокая доля Fabaceae (7,7%) указывает на характер средиземноморской флоры. Остальные семейства включают от 1 до 14 видов. Преобладание семейства Asteraceae также указывает на аридность климата. Преобладающая часть родового спектра охватывает первые 10 родов из 94 видов, что составило 20,8% флоры. Лидирующими родами являются Artemisia (17 видов), Astragalus (17 видов), Ranunculus (12), Plantago (8 видов), Rumex (8 видов), Equisetum (7 видов), Achillea (7 видов), Veronica (6 видов), Potamogeton (6 видов), Galium (6 видов).
На данный момент во флористическом составе территории выявлено произрастание 3 эндемичных вида: Tulipa auliekolica Perezhogin, Tulipa turgaica Perezhogin (Liliaceae); Jurinea xerophytica Iljin (Asteraceae) и 16 краснокнижных видов: Tulipa sylvestris subsp. australis (Link) Pamp., Tulipa suaveolens Roth., Lilium martagon L. (Liliaceae); Astragalus glycyphyllos L. (Fabaceae); Adonis volgensis Stev., Pulsatilla patens subsp. flavescens (Zucc.) Zämelis, Pulsatilla patens (L.) Mill. (Ranunculaceae); Stipa pennata L.; Convallaria majalis L., Ornithogalum fischerianum Krasch. (Asparagaceae); Quercus robur L. (Fagaceae); Betula tianschanica Rupr., Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn. (Betulaceae); Dactylorhiza maculata subsp. fuchsii (Druce) Hyl. (Orchidaceae); Chimaphila umbellata (L.) W.P.C.Barton (Ericaceae); Nymphoides peltata (S.G.Gmel.) Kuntze (Menyanthaceae).
Несомненно, на территории исследования еще не зафиксировано множество других видов высших растений, которые будут выявлены в ходе дальнейшего изучения флоры. Об этом свидетельствует большое количество одновидовых родов 22 (7,3%).
Научное исследование проводится в рамках программы BR18574125 «Изучение современного состояния видового разнообразия сосудистых растений Казахстана с использованием современных методов ботаники, молекулярной генетики и биоинформатики» при финансовой поддержке Министерства науки и высшего образования Республики Казахстан.
Numerical Analysis on Influence of Double-Sided 3D-Patterned Cathode Catalyst Layers on Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Noh Tae Hyoung , Nguyen Van Lap , Permatasari Agnesia , So Magnus , Inoue Gen
Published: September 2024

An optimized cathode catalyst layer (CCL) design can improve fuel cell performance. In this study, we tried to optimize the structure by investigating the electrochemical properties of ion and mass transport through various CCL structures with ionomer layer (IL) added using simulation numerical analysis. In the simulation, an electrochemical calculation was performed on the structure with polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) and IL of CCL using the multiblock model. The simulation was conducted by changing the aspect ratio (AR) structure of the width and height of IL to five conditions so that IL is evenly distributed in the catalyst layer (CL). The result confirmed that the CL 3D IL AR 4.9 structure with the highest aspect ratio showed good performance. In addition, cell performance improved as the uniform reaction area with protons conducting through IL increased and the resistance of protons decreased. Finally, cell performance was predicted based on changes in oxygen concentration (OC), relative humidity (RH), and ionomer/carbon (I/C) ratio. This numerical analysis can show the reaction according to environmental and structural changes and design an optimized structure to improve cell performance.
Modeling Growth and Viscous Flow of Oxide on Cylindrical Silicon Surfaces Including Piezoviscous Inhibition
Authors: Hickok Andrew J. , Blanchet Thierry A.
Published: September 2024

A baseline constant-parameters non-dimensional cylindrical oxidation model was first revisited, normalizing oxide thickness to oxidant diffusivity/reaction rate ratio instead of the original cylinder radius, allowing this radius to remain evident in model output, which in this baseline case predicted oxides increasingly thicker for convex surfaces of decreasing radius as compared to that on a flat surface, with oxide thicknesses on concave surfaces instead predicted to decrease with decreasing radius from the flat case. As this convex behavior conflicts with the reported experiment, where oxide thickness on convex surfaces rather decreases with decreasing radius from the flat case though less strongly than for concave surfaces, potential stress-dependent kinetics parameters were investigated, with stresses determined from viscous treatment of oxide flow during growth to accommodate its molecular volume exceeding that of the silicon consumed in its production. While oxidant diffusivity and solubility both considered to decrease with increasing hydrostatic pressure instead cause model predictions to further deviate from experimental observation, the rate of its volume-producing reaction with the silicon considered to decrease with increasingly compressive radial stress across their interface successfully brought model predictions of convex curvatures into agreement with reported experiments. In conjunction with such stress-dependent reaction rate, additional consideration of viscosity as increasing with hydrostatic pressure can also contribute toward bringing convex modeling closer to experimental observation, though it also introduces a potential piezoviscous inhibition where concave cases of smaller curvature radius become predicted incapable of even initiating oxidation.
In Situ Acoustic Emission Investigation of Asphalt Fracture Process and Damage Quantification for Different Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Zhu Yu , Wang Haixu , Sun Xiaojun , Li Feng , Guan Xuefei , Huang Min , He Jingjing
Published: September 2024

The identification of cracking damage and the dynamic diagnosis of damage evolution are of great importance to prolong the service life of asphalt mixture materials. Acoustic emission (AE) can identify the formation and propagation of cracks by detecting the released energy of the damage; therefore, it provides a viable real-time technique to estimate the damage state in the context of structural health monitoring. In this study, the crack formation and propagation of three different asphalt mixtures were investigated using in situ AE monitoring and microscopy imaging. A three-point bending test was performed using specimens fabricated from three different types of asphalt mixtures. The variation of AE parameters such as the cumulative AE energy and the AE count was obtained and correlated with the crack sizes to characterize the damage process of the three mixtures. Based on the AE parameters, the whole damage process can be divided into three distinct phases, namely, the elastic deformation, damage accumulation, and crack propagation. The AE parameters in the three different mixtures show unique features, and they can be used to capture the transition between phases and identify the damage state. A universal power law model is proposed to correlate the AE energy and the crack density for different types of asphalt mixtures, providing a viable means for damage quantification and predictive maintenance.
Design Optimization of Solar-Collector Tilt Angle for Annual-Maximum and Seasonal-Balanced Energy Received
Authors: Alvarez Adrian , Pate Michael B.
Published: September 2024

A detailed research study was performed on the annual energy received by a fixed-tilt solar collector. A new clear-sky model of solar radiation was developed by combining existing clear-sky models with a unique algorithm. This model was then used to perform tilt angle optimizations with two different objectives. The first objective is to achieve the maximum annual solar energy received by a solar panel, while the second is to balance the energy received so that it is more uniform over the course of a year. Each of these objectives has differing optimum tilt values, depending on the location and usage of a solar collectorsystem. The novelty of this investigation is the use of the aforementioned solar model for multiple optimizations for these two different objectives, which results in two different optimum tilt angles that are in turn different from the widely accepted rule-of-thumb that recommends an angle that is equal to the latitude. The solar radiation results obtained with the model used herein were experimentally confirmed through comparison with measured weather data for a number of locations with different sky-clearness indexes as well as compared with other studies found in the literature. A major contribution of this study is the plots and tables showing optimum tilt angles as estimated by the model as well as with empirical data. By selecting the appropriate tilt angle, a designer can now decide to either maximize annual energy received or else balance energy delivery over the year.
Design of Metamaterial for Broadband Sound Absorption Through Double Resonances
Authors: Ma Pengwei , Wang Han , Fan Xueling , Hou Cheng
Published: September 2024

Broadband acoustic absorber via a structure with sub-wavelength thickness is of great and continuing interest in research and engineering communities. To broaden the absorption band of acoustic absorbers, common methods often involve using septum to create a double-layer structure or replacing cavity walls with flexible materials. However, such approaches require strict restrictions of thickness and structure design for the absorbers. This work presents a metamaterial design method that uses an external frame to construct double resonant metamaterials, effectively improving broadband sound absorption performance. Specifically, this method can be decoupled from the design of original cavity-type absorber structure and external frame. The absorption performance is significantly improved by adding an external frame to wrap around a cavity-type acoustic absorber structure with air. Furthermore, utilizing the coaction of cascade coupling and external frame, the average absorption ratio of the metamaterial in high-frequency domain (above 2000 Hz) can be improved by six times. Since this structural design broadens the absorption band without changing structural parameters of the original absorber, it has potentials to be applied in various engineering fields.