bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Branched‐chain amino acid levels are inversely associated with incident and prevalent chronic kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: de Klerk Juliette A. , Bijkerk Roel , Beulens Joline W. J. , van Zonneveld Anton Jan , Muilwijk Mirthe , Harms Peter P. , Blom Marieke T. , 't Hart Leendert M. , Slieker Roderick C.
Published: February 2024

Aim

To investigate the association of plasma metabolites with incident and prevalent chronic kidney disease (CKD) in people with type 2 diabetes and establish whether this association is causal.

Materials and Methods

The Hoorn Diabetes Care System cohort is a large prospective cohort consisting of individuals with type 2 diabetes from the northwest part of the Netherlands. In this cohort we assessed the association of baseline plasma levels of 172 metabolites with incident (Ntotal = 462/Ncase = 81) and prevalent (Ntotal = 1247/Ncase = 120) CKD using logistic regression. Additionally, replication in the UK Biobank, body mass index (BMI) mediation and causality of the association with Mendelian randomization was performed.

Results

Elevated levels of total and individual branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs)—valine, leucine and isoleucine—were associated with an increased risk of incident CKD, but with reduced odds of prevalent CKD, where BMI was identified as an effect modifier. The observed inverse effects were replicated in the UK Biobank. Mendelian randomization analysis did not provide evidence for a causal relationship between BCAAs and prevalent CKD.

Conclusions

Our study shows the intricate relationship between plasma BCAA levels and CKD in individuals with type 2 diabetes. While an association exists, its manifestation varies based on disease status and BMI, with no definitive evidence supporting a causal link between BCAAs and prevalent CKD.
What happened to the workshop of West Africa? Resilience and decline of handicraft textiles in colonial northern Nigeria, 1911–52
Authors: Travieso Emiliano , Westland Tom
Published: February 2024

The Sokoto Caliphate of northern Nigeria was the workshop of West Africa in the pre‐colonial nineteenth century, producing famous blue‐black cloth that reached many markets south of the Sahara as well as across it. Under British colonial rule this large handicraft textile industry was faced with the winds of foreign competition. We rely on a newly digitized set of colonial district reports to measure the impact of trade on northern Nigerian textile manufacturing and find that (contrary to British expectations) areas closer to railway stations were less likely to experience industrial decline. We argue that the resilience of local textiles relied on the low opportunity cost of dry‐season labour. Analysing a piece of tax microdata, we show that a low opportunity cost of labour outside of the rainy season was associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in textile by‐employment. Seasonal changes in relative factor prices were a trap as well as a refuge. Part‐time employment limited specialization and technological innovation, and can help to explain why northern Nigerian textiles eventually declined. Thus, beyond our particular case study, these results contribute to our understanding of the role of seasonality in determining the structure and pace of development of tropical economies.
Potential merits and flaws of large language models in epilepsy care: A critical review
Authors: van Diessen Eric , van Amerongen Ramon A. , Zijlmans Maeike , Otte Willem M.
Published: February 2024

The current pace of development and applications of large language models (LLMs) is unprecedented and will impact future medical care significantly. In this critical review, we provide the background to better understand these novel artificial intelligence (AI) models and how LLMs can be of future use in the daily care of people with epilepsy. Considering the importance of clinical history taking in diagnosing and monitoring epilepsy—combined with the established use of electronic health records—a great potential exists to integrate LLMs in epilepsy care. We present the current available LLM studies in epilepsy. Furthermore, we highlight and compare the most commonly used LLMs and elaborate on how these models can be applied in epilepsy. We further discuss important drawbacks and risks of LLMs, and we provide recommendations for overcoming these limitations.
Equine grass sickness is associated with major abnormalities in the ultrastructure of skeletal neuromuscular junctions
Authors: McGorum Bruce C. , Davey Tracey , Dosi Miranda C. M. , Keen John A. , Morrison Linda R. , Pirie R. Scott , Shaw Darren J. , Harris John B.
Published: February 2024

Background

Equine grass sickness (EGS) is a frequently fatal multisystem neuropathy of equids. The aetiology is unknown; proposed causes include toxicoinfection with Clostridium botulinum and a mycotoxicosis. The effect of EGS on the organisation and structural integrity of the skeletal neuromuscular junction (NMJ), the target of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), is unknown.

Objectives

To compare the organisation and structural integrity of skeletal NMJs from EGS horses, control horses and one horse with a presumptive diagnosis of botulism.

Study design

Blinded, retrospective case control.

Methods

NMJs in samples of diaphragm or intercostal muscle from six EGS horses, three control horses and one equine botulism case were compared using electron microscopy, morphometry and confocal light microscopy.

Results

A significantly higher percentage of EGS NMJs had abnormal morphology (EGS 72.2%, 95% CI 55.6–84.4; Controls 6.9%, 1.7–23.8; OR 35.1, 8.47–244.8; p < 0.001). EGS NMJs had a significantly lower mean volume fraction occupied by synaptic vesicles (SVs) (EGS 18.7%, 12.6–28.0; Controls 36.3%, 20.8–63.4; p = 0.024). EGS NMJs had evidence of accelerated SV exocytosis and SV depletion, accumulation of neurofilament‐like material in terminal boutons and/or bouton degeneration. NMJs from the botulism horse had dense packing of SVs towards the presynaptic membrane active zone, consistent with BoNT intoxication, but had absence of the abnormalities identified in EGS NMJs.

Main limitations

Group sizes were limited by difficulties obtaining suitably processed samples. Ages of control and EGS horses differed. Botulism was diagnosed based on clinical and post mortem findings.

Conclusions

EGS is associated with major changes in skeletal NMJ ultrastructure that are inconsistent with the effects of BoNTs. SV depletion may reflect increased exocytosis coupled with reduced repopulation of SVs via anterograde axonal transport and endocytosis, consistent with the action of an excitatory presynaptic toxin and/or neurotransmitter reuptake inhibitor. Skeletal NMJs represent a previously unrecognised target for the toxin that causes EGS.
DNA damage‐induced allosteric activation of protein phosphatase PP1:NIPP1 through Src kinase‐induced circularization of NIPP1
Authors: Wu Dan , Van der Hoeven Gerd , Claes Zander , Van Eynde Aleyde , Bollen Mathieu
Published: February 2024

Protein phosphatase‐1 (PP1) complexed to nuclear inhibitor of PP1 (NIPP1) limits DNA repair through dephosphorylation of NIPP1‐recruited substrates. However, the PP1:NIPP1 holoenzyme is completely inactive under basal conditions, hinting at a DNA damage‐regulated activation mechanism. Here, we report that DNA damage caused the activation of PP1:NIPP1 after a time delay of several hours through phosphorylation of NIPP1 at the C‐terminal tyrosine 335 (Y335) by a Src‐family kinase. PP1:NIPP1 activation partially resulted from the dissociation of the C terminus of NIPP1 from the active site of PP1. In addition, the released Y335‐phosphorylated C terminus interacted with the N terminus of NIPP1 to enhance substrate recruitment by the flanking forkhead‐associated (FHA) domain. Constitutive activation of PP1:NIPP1 by knock‐in of a phospho‐mimicking (Y335E) NIPP1 mutant led to the hypo‐phosphorylation of FHA ligands and an accumulation of DNA double‐strand breaks. Our data indicate that PP1:NIPP1 activation through circularization of NIPP1 is a late response to DNA damage that contributes to the timely recovery from damage repair.
Vibration bending fatigue analysis of Ti‐6Al‐4V airfoil blades repaired using additive manufacturing
Authors: Smith Lucas , Scott‐Emuakpor Onome , Gockel Joy , Celli Dino , Johnson Philip
Published: February 2024

The repair of airfoil blades is an enabling technology to extend the operational life of gas turbine engines. Directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing (AM) provides the ability to add material by melting blown powder using a directed energy source. Seventeen Ti‐6Al‐4V airfoil blades were repaired using DED AM and analyzed to determine what effect the repair will have on the blade performance in high cycle vibration fatigue testing. Volumetric computed tomography (CT) was used to quantify the pores from the AM process. The blades were then subjected to vibrational bending fatigue, used to simulate turbine engine loading conditions, until failure. Only three blades failed in the repaired sections. The identified pore sizes and fatigue stress distribution in the blade were used to suggest that understanding the impact of internal and near surface level pores arising from the AM repair is critical towards the implementation of AM repair in aerospace components under fatigue loading.
Fatigue performance of riser quality girth welds: Analysis of TWI and DNV's databases
Authors: Johnston Carol , Horn Agnes Marie
Published: February 2024

In the fatigue design guidelines which focus on welded joints, when the applied loading is of variable amplitude (variable amplitude loading, VAL), the slope of the S‐N curves at endurances above the slope transition point (STP) changes from m to m + 2 in DNV‐RP‐C203 and BS7608. However, the position of the STP is different in BS7608 and DNV RP C203. This results in different calculated fatigue lives and the difference in calculated fatigue life can be significant. In order to provide better guidance to industry on the approach to use for fatigue analysis of girth welds in pipelines and risers specifically, TWI and DNV carried out a project where the ultimate aim was to provide guidance on a common S‐N curve suitable for calculating the fatigue life of girth welds with focus on the slope change area of the S‐N curves. This was attempted by re‐analyzing TWI's and DNV's databases of girth weld fatigue test results and comparing the outcomes. Although it was not possible to agree on a single STP from the analysis carried out, regression analysis of high endurance results from the databases suggest that an STP between the two current values 1E7 and 5E7 may be plausible. This is supported by fracture mechanics analysis, which suggests that the position of the STP depends on the fatigue Class, and the magnitude of the applied stress ranges.
Abrogation and homeostatic restoration of IgE responses by a universal IgE allergy CTL vaccine—The three signal self/non‐self/self (S/NS/S) theory
Authors: Chen Swey‐Shen , Zhang Hailan
Published: February 2024

Natural IgE cytotoxic peptides (nECPs), which are derived from the constant domain of the heavy chain of human IgE producing B cells via endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, are decorated onto MHC class 1a molecules (MHCIa) as unique biomarkers for CTL (cytotoxic T lymphocyte)‐mediated immune surveillance. Human IgE exhibits only one isotype and lacks polymorphisms; IgE is pivotal in mediating diverse, allergen‐specific allergies. Therefore, by disrupting self‐IgE tolerance via costimulation, the CTLs induced by nECPs can serve as universal allergy vaccines (UAVs) in humans to dampen IgE production mediated by diverse allergen‐specific IgE‐secreting B cells and plasma cells expressing surface nECP‐MHCIa as targets. The study herein has enabled the identification of nECPs, A32 and SP‐1/SP‐2 nonameric natural peptides produced through the correspondence principle. Vaccination using nECP induced nECP‐specific CTL that profoundly suppressed human IgE production in vitro as well as chimeric human IgE production in human IgE/HLA‐A2.01/HLA‐B7.02 triple transgenic rodents. Furthermore, nECP‐tetramer‐specific CTLs were found to be converted into CD4 Tregs that restored IgE competence via the homeostatic principle, mediatepred by SREBP‐1c suppressed DCs. Thus, nECPs showed causal efficacy and safety as UAVs for treating categorically type I hypersensitivity IgE‐mediated allergies. The applied vaccination concept presented provides the foundation to unify, integrate through a singular class of tetramer‐specific TCR clonotypes for regulaing human IgE production. The three signal theory pertains to mechanisms of three cells underlying central tolerance (S), breaking self tolerance (NS) and regaining peripheral tolerance (S) via homeostasis concerning nECP as an efficacious and safe UAV to treat type I IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity. The three signal theory impirically extended, may be heuritic for immuno‐regulation of adaptive immune repertoire in general.
JAK/STAT defects and immune dysregulation, and guiding therapeutic choices
Authors: Chaimowitz Natalia S. , Smith Madison R. , Forbes Satter Lisa R.
Published: February 2024

Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) encompass a diverse spectrum of genetic disorders that disrupt the intricate mechanisms of the immune system, leading to a variety of clinical manifestations. Traditionally associated with an increased susceptibility to recurrent infections, IEIs have unveiled a broader clinical landscape, encompassing immune dysregulation disorders characterized by autoimmunity, severe allergy, lymphoproliferation, and even malignancy. This review delves into the intricate interplay between IEIs and the JAK–STAT signaling pathway, a critical regulator of immune homeostasis. Mutations within this pathway can lead to a wide array of clinical presentations, even within the same gene. This heterogeneity poses a significant challenge, necessitating individually tailored therapeutic approaches to effectively manage the diverse manifestations of these disorders. Additionally, JAK–STAT pathway defects can lead to simultaneous susceptibility to both infection and immune dysregulation. JAK inhibitors, with their ability to suppress JAK–STAT signaling, have emerged as powerful tools in controlling immune dysregulation. However, questions remain regarding the optimal selection and dosing regimens for each specific condition. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) holds promise as a curative therapy for many JAK–STAT pathway disorders, but this procedure carries significant risks. The use of JAK inhibitors as a bridge to HSCT has been proposed as a potential strategy to mitigate these risks.
Effects of governmental support on clinical nurse educators in South Korea: A repeated cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shin Sujin , Hong Eunmin , Lee Inyoung , Kim Jeonghyun
Published: February 2024

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of the Clinical Nurse Educator Support Project and offer valuable insights for supporting nursing education.

Background

Allocating clinical nursing educators is crucial for supporting novice nurses' transition into the clinical setting and improving their performance.

Introduction

In 2019, the Ministry of Health and Welfare in South Korea implemented the Clinical Nurse Educator Support Project, which involves governmental financial support for the employment of clinical nurse educators.

Methods

This study employed a repeated cross‐sectional design to assess the project outcomes. Following the framework of the Kirkpatrick Evaluation Model, secondary data from annual self‐program evaluation reports were analyzed to assess program satisfaction, clinical adaptation, and turnover rates of novice nurses. The “Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist” guided the reporting of the study.

Results

The project played a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of nursing education. Novice nurses’ program satisfaction and clinical adaptation consistently remained high or exhibited an increase. The project led to a decrease in turnover rate among novice nurses, while the coronavirus 2019 pandemic resulted in increased turnover rates due to limited clinical practice opportunities for nursing students.

Conclusion

Government support for clinical nurse educators has positively impacted the institutionalization of nursing education. The pressing need is to prioritize not only the enhancement of nursing education quality and the improvement of nurses' working conditions but also the development of healthcare policies and programs to effectively respond to unforeseen challenges and crises.

Implications for nursing policy

Government and healthcare institutions must collaborate to strengthen clinical education, crucial for novice nurses' clinical adaptation. Prioritizing the improvement of nursing education quality and nurses' working conditions is essential. Continuous research and evaluation of the Clinical Nurse Educator Support Project is imperative to assess its impact and make necessary adjustments.
The Potential of Visual Arts Education: Strengthening Pre‐Service Primary Teachers’ Cultural Identity
Authors: Garcia‐Lazo Veronica , Donoso Valentina , Springinzeisz Kata , Jeldres Rolando
Published: February 2024

This article reports on research focused on a visual arts education course offered during a primary teacher training in Chile. It was driven by the increasing cultural diversity in Chilean schools, the potential of art education to respond to this context and the limited space that this field has in the national curriculum, an issue that is replicated in most teachers’ training programmes. Intercultural and students’ cultural funds of knowledge theories informed a framework that was implemented in the investigated course to strengthen pre‐service teachers’ cultural identity and the adoption of culturally inclusive practices. Through focus groups with the students and analysis of their visual journals, the research explored whether the course impacted their perception of visual arts education, and their cultural identities. Through a/r/tography, an arts‐based methodology that articulates art, research and education, the study presents the students’ voices and imagery, testimonies that contributed to reassess the space given to art education in primary schools and teacher training programmes.
Using ChatGPT to promote research competency: English as a Foreign Language undergraduates' perceptions and practices across varied metacognitive awareness levels
Authors: Abdelhalim Safaa M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Introducing new technologies in education sparks debates, disrupting traditional practices, and requiring teacher adaptation. ChatGPT is an example. Research explores its benefits and concerns in education, with recommendations for classroom use. Nevertheless, limited evidence supports ChatGPT as a tool for supporting English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students' research competency. Moreover, while the literature primarily focuses on the perspectives of scholars and teachers, it is essential to incorporate students' viewpoints in order to maximize the potential of this technology.

Objectives

The present study investigated EFL undergraduates' perceptions and practices of ChatGPT as a tool for promoting their research competency. Additionally, the study examined the potential influence of metacognitive awareness (MA) levels in this context.

Methods

The study utilized a mixed‐method research design, collecting quantitative and qualitative data from 27 EFL undergraduates (12 with low MA and 15 with high MA) over one semester. Data sources included a self‐report questionnaire, self‐study log, and semi‐structured interviews.

Results and conclusions

Quantitative analysis showed significant differences between low and high MA groups in their perceptions of ChatGPT (U = 37.500, Z = 2.570). Regression analysis revealed a positive correlation between MA scores and students' perceptions and practices of ChatGPT. Qualitative analysis revealed diverse perceptions and practices of ChatGPT between the high MA and low MA groups, showcasing behaviours ranging from replication to using ChatGPT as a thought‐stimulating and supportive tool, accessing supplementary information, and seeking guidance. Key factors for effective ChatGPT use included prompt formulation, systematic thinking, self‐regulation strategies, and trust in AI.
Reassessing tin circularity and criticality
Authors: Bradley Jessie E. , Auping Willem L. , Kleijn René , Kwakkel Jan H. , Sprecher Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Tin is an important metal for society with a high risk of supply disruptions. It is, therefore, classified as a critical material in many parts of the world. An exception is the European Union, for which tin was classified as a non‐critical material in 2023. However, there are many discrepancies in the literature regarding the definitions and values of the indicators used to determine tin criticality in general, and recycling indicators in particular. Values for end‐of‐life recycling rate (EoL RR) range between 20% and 75%, and values for end‐of‐life recycling input rate (EoL RIR) range between 11% and 32%. In this paper, we critically assess the circularity and criticality indicator values for tin and calculate new values using material flow analysis. The new values for tin recycling indicators are lower than those used in most previous research, with a global EoL RR of 16% and an EoL RIR of 11% in 2017. Based on the updated recycling values, combined with a highly concentrated supply, high import reliance, and difficult substitution, we argue that the European Union should classify tin as a critical material. This reclassification can lead to more policy attention for tin, which can help reduce the impact of future supply disruptions and increase the resilience of the European and global tin supply chains.
Unfolding the human–material interaction of material flows in societies: DNA as a conceptual metaphor
Authors: Alkki Lauri , Uusikartano Jarmo , Pohls Eeva L. , Rusthollkarhu Sami , Aarikka‐Stenroos Leena
Published: February 2024

The management of material flows in societies is complex yet crucial for the sustainable coexistence of humans and materials. While industrial ecology (IE) has long examined material flows, studies acknowledging their sociomaterial nature are scarce. Consequently, the existing IE research has not yet answered why materials flow in societies as they do. This study therefore examines human–material interaction (HMI) in material flows. We build on the IE and sociomateriality literature and empirical findings from a qualitative multiple‐case study of two material flows (recycled concrete aggregate; biogas and recycled nutrients) where humans interact with materials to advance material flows in society more sustainably. We identify and conceptualize 11 HMI elements (adaptability, general acceptance, public interest, regulation, compatibility, consistency, degradability, availability and continuity, intensity, proximity, and re‐utilizability) that further divide into three categories (human‐driven, material‐driven, and equally driven HMI elements) to explain in detail the manifestations of HMI in societal material flows. Together, these HMI elements explain material flows as the physical movement of materials motivated by goal‐oriented humans who engage with materials, a process that leads to humans and materials becoming constitutively intertwined in spatiotemporal practice. To visualize our findings on this complex yet pivotal HMI phenomenon, we employ DNA as a conceptual metaphor. The study contributes to IE by uncovering the dynamic HMI in material flows and guiding practitioners on how to manage material flows in societies, acknowledging both human and material perspectives.
An in vitro study using confocal laser scanning microscopy to evaluate the marginal misfits of different implant‐supported frameworks
Authors: Tonin Bruna S. H. , Fu Jing , Peixoto Raniel F. , Fischer Nicholas G. , Fernandes Regina M. , Curylofo Patrícia A. , de Mattos Maria da Gloria C. , Macedo Ana Paula , de Almeida Rossana P.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a simple, non‐destructive method for assessing the misfit and passivity of implant‐retained prostheses frameworks.

Materials and Methods

To simulate the rehabilitation of a mandible posterior partially edentulous area using 3‐unit screw‐retained frameworks supported by two implants were fabricated and divided into the following five groups (n = 10 in each group): OP = one‐piece framework cast in Co‐Cr with the conventional method (control‐group); Co‐Cr frameworks sectioned and welded by laser (=LAS) or tungsten inert gas (=TIG); Co‐Cr CAD‐CAM = milled Co‐Cr framework; Zir CAD‐CAM = milled zirconia framework. The horizontal |X| and vertical |Y| misfits were measured using confocal laser scanning microscopy with one or both screws tightened. Data were analyzed by a two‐way ANOVA with repeated measures and Bonferroni correction (α = 0.05).

Results

The greatest |X| misfit was observed in the OP group with both screws tightened (290 µm) and one screw tightened (388 and 340 µm). The conventional casting groups sectioned and welded by laser or TIG had lower mean values (235.35 µm, both screws tightened; and 275 µm, one screw tightened) than the OP framework. However, these values still exceeded those of the milled Co‐Cr and zirconia frameworks (190 and 216 µm with both screws tightened). Across all reading conditions, every framework subjected to testing consistently maintained vertical |Y| misfit levels below the threshold of 53 µm; however, the milled frameworks exhibited higher vertical misfits than the frameworks obtained by the conventional cast method.

Conclusions

The frameworks, whether cast and sectioned with laser welding or milled from Co‐Cr, exhibit improved marginal misfit and enhanced passive fit when compared to other fabrication methods. Additionally, the use of confocal laser scanning microscopy is highly effective for passivity and misfit analysis.
Evaluation of a urine dipstick protein to urine specific gravity ratio for the detection of proteinuria in dogs and cats
Authors: Barchilon Michael , Perez‐Nieves Nichole , Palerme Jean‐Sébastien
Published: February 2024

Background

The utility of urine dipsticks for the quantification of proteinuria is limited because of the influence of urine specific gravity (USG). To circumvent the need for urine protein creatinine ratios (UPCR) some have proposed a calculated dipstick urine protein to USG ratio (DUR) for the detection of proteinuria. However, the performance of DUR has not been evaluated in veterinary patients.

Objectives

Evaluate the correlation between DUR and UPCR, while also assessing the effect of urine characteristics on this relationship and evaluating the performance of DUR in detecting proteinuria.

Animals

Urine samples from 308 dogs and 70 cats.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of urinalyses and UPCRs from dogs and cats collected between 2016 and 2021.

Results

Both canine and feline urine samples showed a positive moderate correlation between the UPCR and DUR. The correlation was not influenced by the presence of active urine sediment, glucosuria, or urine pH. In detecting canine urine samples with a UPCR >0.5, an optimal DUR of 1.4 had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 89%, 83%, 96%, and 63%, respectively. In detecting feline urine samples with a UPCR >0.4, an optimal DUR of 2.1 had sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 70%, 100%, 100%, and 75%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Use of the DUR can be a relatively reliable method for identification of proteinuria. However, given its poor NPV, the DUR cannot be recommended for exclusion of proteinuric patients.
The herbal preparation, STW5‐II, reduces proximal gastric tone and stimulates antral pressures in healthy humans
Authors: Fitzgerald Penelope C. E. , Bitarafan Vida , Omari Taher , Cock Charles , Jones Karen L. , Horowitz Michael , Feinle‐Bisset Christine
Published: February 2024

Background

The herbal preparation, STW5‐II, improves upper gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal fullness, early satiation, and epigastric pain, in patients with functional dyspepsia, and in preclinical models decreases fundic tone and increases antral contractility. The effects of STW5‐II on esophago‐gastric junction pressure, proximal gastric tone and antropyloroduodenal pressures, disturbances of which may contribute to symptoms associated with disorders of gut–brain interaction, including functional dyspepsia, in humans, have, hitherto, not been evaluated.

Methods

STW5‐II or placebo (matched for color, aroma, and alcohol content) were each administered orally, at the recommended dose (20 drops), to healthy male and female volunteers (age: 27 ± 1 years) in a double‐blind, randomized fashion, on two separate occasions, separated by 3–7 days, to evaluate effects on (i) esophago‐gastric junction pressures following a standardized meal using solid‐state high‐resolution manometry (part 1, n = 16), (ii) proximal gastric volume using a barostat (part 2, n = 16), and (iii) antropyloroduodenal pressures assessed by high‐resolution manometry (part 3, n = 18), for 120 min (part 1) or 180 min (parts 2, 3).

Key Results

STW5‐II increased maximum intrabag volume (ml; STW5‐II: 340 ± 38, placebo: 251 ± 30; p = 0.007) and intrabag volume between t = 120 and 180 min (p = 0.011), and the motility index of antral pressure waves between t = 60 and 120 min (p = 0.032), but had no effect on esophago‐gastric junction, pyloric, or duodenal pressures.

Conclusions & Inferences

STW5‐II has marked region‐specific effects on gastric motility in humans, which may contribute to its therapeutic efficacy in functional dyspepsia.
Uncoupling of stomatal conductance and photosynthesis at high temperatures: mechanistic insights from online stable isotope techniques
Authors: Diao Haoyu , Cernusak Lucas A. , Saurer Matthias , Gessler Arthur , Siegwolf Rolf T. W. , Lehmann Marco M.
Published: February 2024

The strong covariation of temperature and vapour pressure deficit (VPD) in nature limits our understanding of the direct effects of temperature on leaf gas exchange. Stable isotopes in CO2 and H2O vapour provide mechanistic insight into physiological and biochemical processes during leaf gas exchange.

We conducted combined leaf gas exchange and online isotope discrimination measurements on four common European tree species across a leaf temperature range of 5–40°C, while maintaining a constant leaf‐to‐air VPD (0.8 kPa) without soil water limitation.

Above the optimum temperature for photosynthesis (30°C) under the controlled environmental conditions, stomatal conductance (gs) and net photosynthesis rate (An) decoupled across all tested species, with gs increasing but An decreasing. During this decoupling, mesophyll conductance (cell wall, plasma membrane and chloroplast membrane conductance) consistently and significantly decreased among species; however, this reduction did not lead to reductions in CO2 concentration at the chloroplast surface and stroma.

We question the conventional understanding that diffusional limitations of CO2 contribute to the reduction in photosynthesis at high temperatures. We suggest that stomata and mesophyll membranes could work strategically to facilitate transpiration cooling and CO2 supply, thus alleviating heat stress on leaf photosynthetic function, albeit at the cost of reduced water‐use efficiency.
The effect of multifocal contact lenses on the dynamic accommodation step response
Authors: Mahmood Mubeen , Day Mhairi , Seidel Dirk , Cameron Lorraine A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To measure the dynamic accommodation response (AR) to step stimuli with and without multifocal contact lenses (MFCLs), in emmetropes and myopes.

Methods

Twenty‐two adult subjects viewed alternating distance (0.25D) and near (3D) Maltese crosses placed in free space, through two contact lens types: single vision (SVCL) or centre‐distance multifocal (MFCL; +2.50D add). The AR level was measured along with near to far (N–F) and far to near (F–N) step response characteristics: percentage of correct responses, magnitude, latency, peak velocity and duration of step response.

Results

There was no difference between N–F and F–N responses, or between refractive groups in any aspect of the accommodation step response dynamics. The percentage of correct responses was unaffected by contact lens type. Through MFCLs, subjects demonstrated smaller magnitude, longer latency, shorter duration and slower peak velocity steps than through SVCLs. When viewing the near target, the AR through MFCLs was significantly lower than through SVCLs. When viewing the distance target with the MFCL, the focal points from rays travelling through the distance and near zones were approximately 0.004D behind and 2.50D in front of the retina, respectively. When viewing the near target, the respective values were approximately 1.89D behind and 0.61D in front of the retina.

Conclusion

The defocus error required for accommodation control appears not to be solely derived from the distance zone of the MFCL. This results in reduced performance in response to abruptly changing vergence stimuli; however, these errors were small and unlikely to impact everyday visual tasks. There was a decrease in ocular accommodation during near tasks, which has previously been correlated with a reduced myopic treatment response through these lenses. With MFCLs, the estimated dioptric myopic defocus was the largest when viewing a distant stimulus, supporting the hypothesis that the outdoors provides a beneficial visual environment to reduce myopia progression.
Abdominal fat and risk of impaired lung function and asthma in children: A population‐based prospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Tong , Karramass Tarik , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Klein Stefan , Oei Edwin H. G. , Duijts Liesbeth
Published: February 2024

Background

Obesity, specifically abdominal adiposity, is associated with increased risks of lung function impairment and asthma in children, but potential adverse effects among adolescents are unknown. We hypothesized that elevated amounts of specific abdominal fat depots during childhood and adolescence may lead to adverse respiratory outcomes in adolescents.

Methods

In a population‐based prospective cohort study among 2877 children at 13 years, we measured specific abdominal fat depots including subcutaneous fat mass and visceral fat mass by magnetic resonance imaging. Lung function was measured by spirometry, and current asthma by a questionnaire. Conditional regression analyses were used to examine the associations of abdominal fat depots with respiratory outcomes in adolescence.

Results

After adjustment for confounders and child's body mass index, higher subcutaneous and visceral fat mass index at age 13 years, independent of these measures at earlier age, were associated with lower FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and FEF75 (range Z‐score difference (95% CI): −0.10 (−0.15, −0.06) to −0.06 (−0.11, −0.01)). Also, an increase in subcutaneous and visceral fat between ages 10 and 13 years was associated with a decrease in FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and FEF75 during the same period. No associations of abdominal fat depots with asthma were observed.

Conclusion

Adolescents with higher amounts of subcutaneous and visceral fat, independent of that at an earlier age and body mass index, have an increased risk of lung function impairment.
Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy for attachment and relational trauma: Engaging people with a diagnosis of personality disorder
Authors: Lucre Kate , Ashworth Fiona , Copello Alex , Jones Chris , Gilbert Paul
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The research aimed to evaluate an exploratory Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy Programme and the impact on participants' experiences of self‐criticism, usage of services and general wellbeing. Participants included patients with a history of complex attachment and relational trauma (A&RT), who might attract a diagnosis of personality disorder.

Design

This study utilised a quasi‐experimental non‐randomised within subject controlled design for the evaluation of the efficacy of the programme.

Methods

Participants were recruited from tertiary care services. The programme consisted of a 12‐week Preparation and Engagement intervention (PEG) which was Compassionate Mind Training and Psychoeducation, followed by a 40‐week Compassion Focused Trauma Group intervention. The cohort was then followed up after 12 months during which period they received treatment as usual. A comprehensive selection of self‐report measures was administered at various points during the therapeutic process and following completion of the group interventions.

Results

The results of the research showed that the provision of a long‐term, slow‐paced, Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy intervention, resulted in significant changes across all measures which were maintained at 12‐month follow‐up. These significant results were maintained following intention to treat and reliable change analyses. These data were supported by a significant reduction in service usage and a significant increase in engagement in employment and education.

Conclusions

This study has identified that within Compassion Focused Group Psychotherapy, there is a therapeutic process of establishing group‐based safeness as a necessary precursor to cultivating compassion and reworking early shame‐based trauma memories.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms and ApoE genotype in older adults without dementia: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Stella Florindo , Pais Marcos Vasconcelos , Loureiro Júlia Cunha , Cordeiro Augusto Magno Tranquezi , Talib Leda Leme , Forlenza Orestes Vicente
Published: February 2024

Background

The ApoE genotype and neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are known risk factors for cognitive decline in older adults. However, the interaction between these variables is still unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the association between the presence of the ApoE ε4 allele and the occurrence of NPS in older adults without dementia.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional investigation we determined the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype of 74 older adults who were either cognitively normal (20.3% / Clinician Dementia Rating Scale (CDR): 0) or had mild cognitive impairment (MCI: 79.7% / CDR: 0.5). We used a comprehensive cognitive assessment protocol, and NPS were estimated by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory‐Clinician Rating Scale (NPI‐C), Mild Behavioural Impairment‐Checklist (MBI‐C), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM‐D), and Apathy Inventory.

Results

ApoE ε4 carriers had higher MBI‐C total scores than ApoE ε4 noncarriers. Correlations between NPS and ApoE genotype were observed for two NPI‐C domains, although in opposite directions: the ApoE ε4 allele was associated with a 1.8 unit decrease in the estimated aberrant motor disturbance score and with a 1.3 unit increase in the estimated appetite/eating disorders score. All fitted models were significant, except for the one fitted for the domain delusions from the NPI‐C. Among individuals with amnestic MCI, ε4 carriers presented higher depression score (HAM‐D) than noncarriers; in turn, ε4 noncarriers exhibited higher aggression score (NPI‐C) than ε4 carriers.

Conclusions

Our analyses showed associations between NPS and the presence of the ApoE ε4 allele in two NPI‐C domains, despite the sample size. Furthermore, compared to noncarriers, the presence of the ApoE ε4 correlated positively with appetite/eating disorders and negatively with aberrant motor disturbance domain. Examination of the amnestic MCI group displayed significant, although weak, associations. Therefore, ε4 carriers exhibited higher depression scores according to the HAM‐D scale compared to ε4 noncarriers. Conversely, ε4 noncarriers had higher scores in the aggression domain of the NPI‐C than ε4 carriers.
Breaking the spiral: How negative mood can fuel exertional breathlessness in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Pascoe Amy , Smallwood Natasha
Published: February 2024

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Familial pulmonary fibrosis: Defining inherited fibrotic lung disease in the era of clinical genetic testing
Authors: Dickinson Joanne L. , Lucas Sionne E. M.
Published: February 2024

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Effect of soil flooding and drying on the metabolic pathways of CO2 fixing microorganisms along an elevation gradient in the Three Gorges Reservoir drawdown area
Authors: Zhang Shengman , Zhang Ziyuan , Chen Xueping , Li Shanze , Qin Yong , Xia Yue , Wang Yuchun , Wang Fushun
Published: February 2024

The construction of dams and subsequent water level fluctuations significantly alters the environmental conditions of reservoir ecosystems, affecting the metabolic pathways of CO2 fixing microorganisms (CFMs) and carbon storage in drawdown areas. We investigated the response of soil bacterial communities and carbon fixation pathways to periodic flooding and drying at different elevations by collecting surface soil samples (0–10 cm) in the drawdown area of the Three Gorges Reservoir. The results show that periodic flooding and drying increased the complexity of bacterial co‐occurrence networks. We identified the reductive citrate cycle (rTCA cycle), dicarboxylate‐hydroxybutyrate cycle (DC/4‐HB cycle), 3‐Hydroxypropionate cycle (3‐HP cycle) and reductive pentose phosphate cycle (Calvin cycle) as the main carbon fixation pathways. Notably, as the inundation duration increased, the abundance of the Calvin cycle and its key gene (cbbL) gradually decreased. We also found that soil moisture, pH and the different organic carbon components affected the composition of bacterial communities and the abundance of carbon fixation pathways. These findings elucidate evolutionary trends bacterial communities and the impacts of water level fluctuations on microbial‐mediated carbon cycling processes because of dam construction.
Artificial intelligence, racialization, and art resistance
Authors: Martinez-Yepes Ruth
Published: February 2024

Contemporary culture is shaped by information technology, in particular, artificial intelligence applications. One of the goals of this paper is to analyze how artistic practices could use machine learning algorithms as racial resistance. In addition, to remove from the black box how these applications work by relating the technical process that artists face. It will analyze the aesthetic and narrative perception around artificial intelligence, racism in the creation of data sets to train these algorithms and the possibilities that artificial intelligence opens to rethink concepts such as intelligence and imagination. This research is framed from the posthumanist subjectivity that uses critical imagination to question the classic and Eurocentric definition of human as a measure of what surrounds us. Finally, I will describe the work of the contemporary artist Linda Dounia and her interest in incorporating her experience as a Senegalese woman in the training of Generative Adversarial Networks models to reflect on her identity.
Validación de las escalas de bienestar, de florecimiento y afectividad
Authors: Cassaretto Bardales Mónica , Martínez Uribe Patricia
Published: February 2024

Objetivo.

El presente estudio analiza las propiedades psicométricas de las escalas de

fl

orecimiento y afecto

positivo y negativo, propuestas por Diener et al. (2010), para la evaluación del bienestar.

Método.

Se realizaron

dos estudios. El primero empleó 656 estudiantes universitarios para analizar la con

fi

abilidad y la estructura

factorial de las escalas. En el segundo, con 201 estudiantes universitarios, se calculó la validez convergente

y divergente de las escalas con otras medidas de bienestar y se efectuó un análisis factorial con

fi

rmatorio.

Resultados.

Ambos estudios mostraron adecuadas propiedades psicométricas en las escalas. Los coe

fi

cientes

de con

fi

abilidad fueron de 0.89 para la escala de

fl

orecimiento y 0.91 y 0.87 para las escalas de afecto positivo

y negativo, respectivamente. La varianza explicada en el análisis factorial exploratorio para cada una de las

escalas mencionadas fue, en su orden, de 52.82%, 69.49% y 61.56%. Las correlaciones de las escalas de

fl

orecimiento y afecto positivo fueron positivas y signi

fi

cativas con la Escala de Optimismo (LOT-R), la Escala

de Afecto Positivo PANAS, la Escala de Satisfacción con la Vida (SWLS) y la Escala de Bienestar (Bieps-A),

y negativas y signi

fi

cativas con la Escala de Afecto Negativo.

Conclusión.

El análisis factorial con

fi

rmatorio

mostró índices de ajuste adecuados tanto para la escala de

fl

orecimiento como para la de afectividad. Estos

resultados permiten con

fi

rmar la validez y utilidad de las escalas para la evaluación del bienestar en población

hispana.
Operacionalización psicodinámica del eje estructura en un paciente drogo dependiente
Authors: Vanegas Osorio Jorge Humberto
Published: February 2024

Objetivo.

Comprender la relación entre el perfil psicodinámico y la adicción a las drogas en pacientes internos

en una comunidad terapéutica, considerando la operacionalización del eje estructura según el Diagnóstico

Psicodinámico Operacionalizado (OPD-2).

Método.

Se

implementó el estudio cualitativo de cuatro procesos

individuales de psicoterapia psicodinámica. Cada caso fue analizado por separado y se operacionalizaron

los ejes diagnósticos del OPD-2; instrumento validado internacionalmente para la investigación, evaluación,

focalización e indicación del tratamiento.

Resultados.

El análisis de caso permitió concluir que las limitaciones

en las capacidades cognitivas, emocionales y vinculares corresponden a un nivel estructural medio-bajo.

Discusión.

Pa ra

la intervención psicoterapéutica es importante comprender la dinámica psíquica que sostiene

la conducta adictiva con base en un acertado diagnóstico dimensional.
El programa EQUIPAR para Educadores: sus efectos en el pensamiento y la conducta social
Authors: Van der Meulen Kevin
Published: February 2024

Objetivo.

EQUIPAR para Educadores (EpE; DiBiase et al., 2010) es un programa educativo cuyo objetivo

es equipar a los jóvenes con habilidades y conocimientos para su vida diaria, a fin de prevenir conductas

antisociales. El presente estudio se propone analizar los efectos de la aplicación del programa en las

distorsiones cognitivas, el clima de aula y las actuaciones del alumnado en situaciones de acoso escolar.

Método.

Participaron 123 estudiantes de 3º y 4º de ESO. Se utilizó un diseño cuasi-experimental pretest/postest

con un grupo control (128 estudiantes).

Resultados.

Se observaron cambios positivos en las actuaciones ante

el acoso escolar, pero las distorsiones cognitivas y el clima de aula percibido no mostraron cambios después

de la aplicación del programa.

Conclusión.

Una percepción muy positiva del clima de aula y el bajo nivel

de distorsiones cognitivas antes de la intervención podrían explicar la falta de efectos, junto a aspectos

relacionados con la implantación del programa EpE.