bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐modulus glass fiber for wind renewable energy generation: Selective review on the recent research and development
Authors: Li Hong , Demirok Gülin , Atilgan Semin , Vennam Sandeep , Charpentier Thibault
Published: May 2024

To effectively manage turbine blade weight and blade deflection under severe weather conditions, longer and stiffer blades are required, fiber glass producers have devoted significant efforts to developing and commercializing high‐modulus (HM) glass fiber products of the first generation. The current focuses aim at the commercialization of the second generation and the development of the third‐generation products. This article briefly reviews four key areas: (a) the benefit of longer blades on wind energy generation, (b) characteristics of HM glass fibers of various generations, (c) fundamental science and understanding behind HM glass fiber development, and (d) finally statistically based composition (C)–property (P) and structure (S)–property (P) modeling approaches in new glass design.
Measuring language teacher resilience: Scale development and validation
Authors: Liu Honggang , Chu Wenxiu , Duan Siyu , Li Xiaoxue
Published: May 2024

While teacher resilience, as a multidimensional construct, has been increasingly focused in recent years, there is still a dearth of exploration into the inner structure of resilience with a highlight of characteristics of language teachers. To fill this gap, the current study developed a language teacher resilience scale and assessed it among 3992 Chinese high school English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers. The exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses confirmed the acceptable fit of the 22‐item EFL teacher resilience scale and yielded a four‐factorial structure of EFL teacher resilience involving professional, emotional, social, and cultural dimensions. Cultural dimension is newly developed and mirrors the specific features of language teacher resilience. Based on the findings, implications are provided for future research on language teacher resilience.
Effects of different fermenters on the quality and flavour of fermented mandarin fish (Siniperca chuatsi)
Authors: Gu Jinhui , Li Suxin , Shen Xinjie , Liang Qianqian , Xu Tong , Shi Wenzheng
Published: May 2024

In this study, the effect of different fermenters on the quality and flavour of fermented mandarin fish was investigated via pH, salt content, moisture content, thiobarbituric acid, microbial community, free amino acids and volatile compounds. The results demonstrated that the inoculated fermentation effectively suppressed fish fat oxidation, resulting in significantly higher levels of umami amino acids in mandarin fish compared to the natural fermentation group (P < 0.05). Additionally, certain bitter amino acids were also inhibited. Moreover, the total amino acid content of the mixed inoculated fermentation group was significantly elevated compared to other groups, reaching 300.21 ± 5.37 mg/100 g. The synergistic effect of free amino acids and flavour‐enhancing nucleotides significantly influenced the taste of the fermented fish, with the mixed inoculation fermentation group exhibiting a significantly higher Equivalent umami concentration (EUC) value compared to other groups, reaching 216.06 ± 20.13 mgMSG/100 g on the sixth day of fermentation. A total of 47 volatile compounds were detected by using headspace gas chromatography‐ion mobility spectrometry (HS‐GC‐IMS), and the results demonstrated that inoculated fermentation positively influenced the development of fish flavour, and mixed inoculated fermentation proved to be more effective. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the industrial production of fermented fish products and offers potential avenues for technical enhancement.
Co‐immobilization of a PuO2 surrogate and contaminated stainless steel within a zirconolite matrix
Authors: Ai Qu , Sun Shi‐Kuan , Hao Peng‐Wei , Chen Yuan‐Bin , Zhao Yi , Tan Sheng‐Heng , Guo Wei‐Ming , Lin Hua‐Tay
Published: May 2024

The aqueous reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel generates a considerable amount of plutonium alongside contaminated stainless steel, necessitating meticulous handling for safe decommission and long‐term management. The present work investigated the co‐immobilization of CeO2 (as an inactive surrogate for PuO2) with metallic Fe and Cr (representing a simplified stainless steel) within a zirconolite ceramic wasteform, nominally targeting Ca1−xCexZrTi2−2xFexCrxO7. After sintering at 1400°C under an air atmosphere, the zirconolite phase constituted 90.8–95.1 wt.% of the product across the solid solution range of 0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.25, alongside perovskite and baddeleyite secondary phases in varying proportion; no evidence of the unincorporated CeO2 or metallic and oxidized Fe or Cr were identified. Above x = 0.30 CeO2 was detected inferring, the solubility limit was reached. A polytype transformation from zirconolite 2M to 3T was confirmed by X‐ray diffraction and selected area electron diffraction results, with the relative fraction of the 3T phase gradually increasing to 49.5 wt.% at x = 0.30. Deconvolution of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data revealed the partial reduction of Ce4+–Ce3+, whereas Fe and Cr species maintained trivalent, in agreement with the targeted substitution scheme. Benefitting from the excellent chemical flexibility of zirconolite structured compounds, the co‐immobilization approach may be an effective disposal pathway for Pu‐containing wastes and contaminated stainless steel residues.
Low energy intake and nutritional maladaptation in terminal stage IV periodontitis
Authors: Liu Min , Liu Beilei , Shen Jie , Qian Shujiao , Lai Hongchang , Yuan Changzheng , Tonetti Maurizio S.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Impairment of masticatory function in elderly patients with terminal dentition due to stage IV periodontitis (TDS4P) may lead to lower nutritional intake. The study aimed to report the dietary intake and nutrition status of elderly patients with TDS4P and compare them with those of the elderly Chinese population and the Chinese Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs).

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐one consecutive subjects (≥55 years old) with TDS4P were enrolled. Average dietary intake was evaluated based on a 3‐day 24‐h dietary recall (24HR) and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The daily intake of fresh vegetables and fruits, dietary energy as well as macro and micronutrients were calculated and compared with matched national data and the Chinese DRIs. Nutritional status was assessed by Short‐Form Mini‐Nutritional assessment.

Results

Of the subjects, 19.6% (95% CI: 7.2%–28.1%) were at risk of malnutrition. The mean daily energy intake was 1517.4 kcal (95% CI: 1400.5–1634.3) for males and 1110.7 kcal (95% CI: 1001.5–1219.9) for females, which were very low compared with both the national data and the DRIs. Females derived a higher percentage of energy from fat. The mean daily intake of vegetables was 151.4 g (95% CI: 128.1–174.8) by FFQ and 130.9 g (95% CI: 104.6–157.3) by 24HR. Both results were significantly lower than the national reports (95% CI: 310.3–340.1) and the DRIs (300–450 g). Insufficient micronutrient intake, especially vitamins A, C and E, was also found.

Conclusions

Elderly subjects with TDS4P had a lower daily energy intake, vegetable and fruit consumption and essential macro and micronutrient intake. More studies are needed to clarify the impact of periodontitis and tooth loss/replacement on nutrition and healthy ageing.
Oxynoemacheilus fatmae, a new species from the Güzelhisar Stream in the Aegean Sea basin, Türkiye (Teleostei: Nemacheilidae)
Authors: Turan Davut , Aksu Sadi , Güçlü Salim Serkan , Kalaycı Gökhan
Published: May 2024

Oxynoemacheilus fatmae, a new species, is found in the Güzelhisar Stream in the northern Aegean Sea basin. It is differentiated from all other species of Oxynoemacheilus in the northern Aegean Sea and adjacent basins by having four to eight irregularly shaped narrow black bars on the posterior part of flank, and anterior parts of the flank with a marbled pattern. O. fatmae is differentiated from the closest species Oxynoemacheilus theophilii by having 14 fixed diagnostic nucleotide substitution sites, and the pair‐wise genetic distance is 2.22%. It further differs from O. theophilii by having a slenderer body (body at dorsal‐fin origin: 15%–17% standard length [SL] vs. 17%–18%), a slenderer caudal peduncle (10%–12% SL vs. 12%–13%), a more forked caudal fin (length of middle caudal‐fin lope: 16%–19% SL vs. 19%–23%), and the absence the dorsal and ventral adipose crests on the caudal peduncle behind the vertical of the posterior anal‐fin base (vs. present). Three species delimitation tests (assemble species by automatic partitioning (ASAP), automatic barcode gap discovery (ABGD) and generalized mixed yule‐coalescent (GMYC)) and phylogenetic analyses reinforce the validity of O. fatmae as a distinct species.
The influence of the prolactin/vasoinhibin axis on post‐stroke lesion volume, astrogliosis, and survival
Authors: Castillo Ximena , Ortiz Georgina , Arnold Edith , Wu Zhijian , Tovar y Romo Luis B. , Clapp Carmen , Martínez de la Escalera Gonzalo
Published: May 2024

Ischemic stroke is a significant global health issue, ranking fifth among all causes of death and a leading cause of serious long‐term disability. Ischemic stroke leads to severe outcomes, including permanent brain damage and neuronal dysfunction. Therefore, decreasing and preventing neuronal injuries caused by stroke has been the focus of therapeutic research. In recent years, many studies have shown that fluctuations in hormonal levels influence the prognosis of ischemic stroke. Thus, it is relevant to understand the role of hormones in the pathophysiological mechanisms of ischemic stroke for preventing and treating this health issue. Here, we investigate the contribution of the prolactin/vasoinhibin axis, an endocrine system regulating blood vessel growth, immune processes, and neuronal survival, to the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke. Male mice with brain overexpression of prolactin or vasoinhibin by adeno‐associated virus (AAV) intracerebroventricular injection or lacking the prolactin receptor (Prlr−/−) were exposed to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) for 45 min followed by 48 h of reperfusion. Overexpression of vasoinhibin or the absence of the prolactin receptor led to an increased lesion volume and decreased survival rates in mice following tMCAO, whereas overexpression of prolactin had no effect. In addition, astrocytic distribution in the penumbra was altered, glial fibrillary acidic protein and S100b mRNA expressions were reduced, and interleukin‐6 mRNA expression increased in the ischemic hemisphere of mice overexpressing vasoinhibin. Of note, prolactin receptor‐null mice (Prlr−/−) showed a marked increase in serum vasoinhibin levels. Furthermore, vasoinhibin decreased astrocyte numbers in mixed hippocampal neuron–glia cultures. These observations suggest that increased vasoinhibin levels may hinder astrocytes' protective reactivity. Overall, this study suggests the involvement of the prolactin/vasoinhibin axis in the pathophysiology of ischemic stroke‐induced brain injury and provides insights into the impact of its dysregulation on astrocyte reactivity and lesion size. Understanding these mechanisms could help develop therapeutic interventions in ischemic stroke and other related neurological disorders.
Ready‐to‐use abobotulinumtoxinA solution versus powder botulinumtoxinA for treatment of glabellar lines: Investigators' and subjects' experience in a Phase IV study
Authors: Chadha Priyanka , Gerber Peter Arne , Hilton Said , Molina Beatriz , Haq Syed , Partridge Jackie , Wong Vincent , Hoffmann Klaus , Persson Cecilia , Prygova Inna
Published: May 2024

Background

Botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT‐A) is well‐established for treatment of glabellar lines (GLs), and mostly formulated as powders requiring reconstitution for injection. The approved liquid formulation, ready‐to‐use (RTU) abobotulinumtoxinA was developed to ease injection procedures and prevent reconstitution errors. This multicenter, open‐label, Phase IV study evaluated GL treatment experience using RTU abobotulinumtoxinA versus powder BoNT‐A (onabotulinumtoxinA).

Methods

Females with experience of BoNT‐A facial treatment were randomized 2:1 to GL treatment with 50 U RTU abobotulinumtoxinA (N = 99) or 20 U powder BoNT‐A (N = 51) and followed‐up for 6 months or 1 month, respectively. Assessments included: time to prepare each product for injection (primary endpoint); investigators' experience with product preparation/reconstitution; investigators' and subjects' treatment experience; safety; and for the RTU product: aesthetic improvement of GLs; subject satisfaction.

Results

Compared with powder BoNT‐A, RTU abobotulinumtoxinA required statistically significantly less preparation time (mean 0:33 vs. 1:34 min: s; p < 0.0001). Investigators preferred RTU abobotulinumtoxinA over powder BoNT‐A (81% of treatment sessions) and found it allowed more time to communicate with subjects (97%). All investigators (100%) also found it easy‐to‐use, easy‐to‐learn, and that it fulfilled their expectations. Subjects found the RTU abobotulinumtoxinA treatment comfortable (91%), and through 6 months posttreatment, most reported satisfaction with their appearance (≥88%), looking natural (≥95%) and refreshed (≥80%). At Month 1, 99% of RTU‐treated subjects had investigator‐assessed improved aesthetic appearance in GLs, maintained in 76% at Month 6. No serious adverse events occurred.

Conclusion

RTU abobotulinumtoxinA for GL treatment is well‐tolerated, efficacious, shows high levels of subject satisfaction throughout 6 months, saves time, and is preferred by clinicians over powder BoNT‐A.

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry

NCT05277337.
The clinical efficacy and tolerability of a novel triple acid exfoliating blend for reducing signs of photoaging in sensitive skin
Authors: Konisky Hailey , Bowe Whitney P. , Yang Pada , Kobets Kseniya
Published: May 2024

Background

Chemical exfoliation of the skin is a frequently utilized treatment in dermatology to improve the appearance and health of photoaged skin. Photodamaged skin is especially prone to dryness and irritation. Over‐exfoliation with at‐home products are partially to blame for the “epidemic” of sensitive skin affecting over half the population. Combining AHA, BHA, and PHA together creates a complementary blend that has the potential to target numerous age‐related changes in the skin including the appearance of pores and smoothing skin texture, while firming skin and increasing its collagen and moisture content.

Objectives

The following study tested the clinical efficacy of a triple acid blend designed specifically for sensitive skin and measured improvements in signs of photodamage and hydration levels in the skin over time.

Methods

Thirty females aged 35–60 with mild to moderate facial lines, wrinkles, sun damage, uneven skin tone/texture, dark spots, or pores were enrolled. Subjects were instructed to use the test article, DWB‐EN, on a clean face at night 3 times weekly with 48 h between applications for 4 weeks.

Results

Statistically significant improvements were noted in all parameters of photoaging clinical assessments (wrinkles, pores, overall appearance, luminosity, visible texture, skin tone evenness, hyperpigmentation) at the end of the 4‐week study period. There were no instances of skin irritation throughout the duration of this study despite half of the women having sensitive skin.

Conclusions

Overall, this study demonstrated the clinical efficacy and tolerability of DWB‐EN for treating photoaging in subjects with all skin types.
A Cautionary Tale: On the Adoption of Self‐Determination Theory Principles for Practice
Authors: Shaw Jason D.
Published: May 2024

Self‐determination theory (SDT) continues to be among the most popular need‐based theories of motivation in psychology and the organizational sciences. In their interesting and wide‐ranging work, Gagné and Hewett (2024, this issue) contrast the assumptions and presumed mechanisms of SDT with the restrictive assumptions of agency theory. They also offer several suggestions for implementing SDT principles in practice, business school curricula, and public policy. In this counterpoint, I highlight areas of agreement with the authors, but also offer thoughts on SDT limitations and blind spots. My conclusion is a large‐scale adoption of SDT – to the exclusion or minimization of other views – would not be advisable. I base this conclusion on the logic that needs vary in importance across individuals and needs are broader than those encompassed by SDT. Moreover, scholars and practitioners should embrace the notion that factors beyond the needs in SDT (e.g., values, fairness, quasi‐rational calculations, and rewards) also play important roles in determining motivation.
Exploring Black parents’ critical consciousness in relation to their engagement with their children's schools
Authors: Marchand Aixa D. , Settles Isis H. , Kumari Shubhangi , Rowley Stephanie J. , Diemer Matthew A.
Published: May 2024

Despite consensus that parent involvement is integral to children's educational success, Black parents’ involvement remains largely characterized from a deficits‐based perspective. Using critical race and critical consciousness theories, this study explored parents’ analysis of educational inequities and their school engagement. Using interview data from a sample of Black parents (n = 20), emergent understandings of parents’ thoughts, motivations, and actions to engage with their child's school were explored. Findings revealed that Black parents held both critical and traditional views, expressed themes of internal and external efficacy in their motivation, and engaged critically and traditionally in their child's education. Results are consonant with literature on Black parents’ engagement and to the nascent understanding of how parents' beliefs about structural racial oppression within schools impacts how they engage in that space.
From popularity to preservation: large carnivore potential for ecosystem conservation
Authors: Verschueren Stijn , Bauer Hans , Cristescu Bogdan , Leirs Herwig , Torres‐Uribe Carolina , Marker Laurie
Published: May 2024

Conservation efforts are challenged by lack of funding and ambiguity in strategic prioritisation. Flagship species generate public attention but may not adequately represent and protect biodiversity. Integrating species‐centric approaches with area‐based strategies may refine conservation outcomes and could improve achievements towards biodiversity targets.

We present this case for a globally appealing flagship species, the cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus).

We identified research trends and gaps, and estimated the biodiversity value associated with cheetah occurrence throughout its free‐ranging distribution.

Although the existing body of literature encompasses insights from diverse interdisciplinary approaches, current knowledge is mostly derived from a limited number of localised study areas, whereas most populations are understudied. Cheetahs inhabit more than half of Africa's ecoregions and their contemporary occurrence coincides with areas valuable for biodiversity conservation, in particular, closer to the equator where ecoregions are poorly protected and human footprint is high.

Cheetah conservation efforts could yield substantial biodiversity benefits, particularly outside protected areas, thereby complementing current area protection networks. Growing pressures on remaining habitat will require adaptive conservation strategies; hence, it becomes imperative to embrace a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to the protection of cheetahs, a flagship species for drylands and landscapes shared with humans.
Bibliometric analysis of research on sarcopenic obesity: a review of scientific literature
Authors: Petermann‐Rocha Fanny , Diaz‐Toro Felipe , Valera‐Gran Desirée , Navarrete‐Muñoz Eva‐María
Published: May 2024

Considering the current prevalence in obesity and sarcopenia globally, this study aimed to summarize the development of sarcopenic obesity research to establish the topic's past, present, and future research direction using a bibliometric analysis. A comprehensive search for publications on sarcopenia and obesity was conducted in the Web of Science (WoS) database until the 31st of December 2023. We performed a detailed descriptive analysis, considering metrics like sources, authors, and documents, along with analyzing conceptual and social structures to map sarcopenic obesity research. Between 1993 and 2023, there were 4978 publications on sarcopenic obesity, representing 22.6% of the whole sarcopenia research (22070). Most published articles were originals (74.6%), and one of the highest increments in the fields was seen after 2010. The most significant contribution in this research area falls under the categories of Nutrition & Dietetics, Gerontology, and Geriatrics & Gerontology. Among regions, scientific production was located in 93 different countries. The United States, China, and South Korea had the highest contributions. The most relevant keywords were sarcopenia, obesity, and body composition. Research on sarcopenic obesity primarily focuses on epidemiology and identifying risk factors and outcome predictors. Yet, there is a shortage of research addressing prevention, early detection, and treatments to enhance the health of individuals with sarcopenia.
Effect of repeated topical capsaicin gel administration on oral thermal quantitative sensory testing: A two‐arm longitudinal study
Authors: Buoite Stella Alex , Rupel Katia , Tamos Martina , Fratter Giampaolo , Deodato Manuela , Martini Miriam , Biasotto Matteo , Di Lenarda Roberto , Ottaviani Giulia
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Few studies used thermal quantitative sensory testing to assess the effects of repeated capsaicin gel administration in the oral cavity. This study aimed to investigate thermal sensory and pain thresholds before and after repeated capsaicin gel administration.

Subjects and Methods

Ten healthy females (22 ± 2 years) applied a capsaicin gel on the gingival mucosa twice daily for 14 days, and heat pain threshold, warm detection threshold, cold pain threshold, and cold detection threshold were assessed on the oral mucosa. Measurements were performed before and after the 14 days and were compared to a control sample (n = 10, all females, 23 ± 3 years).

Results

Capsaicin increased heat pain threshold in the anterior maxilla by 2.9°C (95% CI: 1.6–4.2) (p < 0.001) and in the anterior mandible by 2.2°C (95% CI: 1.0–3.4) (p = 0.001), similar to warm detection threshold that increased by Δ1.1°C (95% CI: 0.3–1.9) (p = 0.009). No significant changes were found in the controls.

Conclusions

These findings encourage the use of thermal quantitative sensory testing in the oral cavity to assess thermal sensation, which might be useful for assessing the effects of therapies aimed at reducing pain.
A metapragmatic stereotype‐based account of reclamation
Authors: Lo Guercio Nicolás , Carranza Fernando
Published: May 2024

Group‐based slurs are words that express derogatory attitudes toward some group demarcated by a property that has historically caused social antagonism, for example, gender or ethnicity, among others. Reclamation, in turn, is the process whereby a slur starts being used non‐derogatorily by members of the target group to express a positive attitude. Some content‐based theories of slurs (which pin the derogatory force of such terms on their conventional meaning) account for reclamation by arguing that it involves a change in meaning so that reclaimed slurs are ambiguous. But these theories face a challenge, namely to account for the difference between reclaimed slurs and run‐of‐the‐mill ambiguous terms, whose felicitous uses do not seem to be restricted to in‐group speakers. In this article, we argue that the Reclamation Worry is not a problem for content‐based theories of slurs by advancing an account of reclamation that is compatible with such views. As we shall argue, such a theory must rely on the sociolinguistic dimension of such terms.
Impact of novel methods and research approaches in plant pathology: Are individual advances sufficient to meet the wider challenges of disease management?
Authors: Jeger Michael , Beresford Robert , Berlin Anna , Bock Clive , Fox Adrian , Gold Kaitlin M. , Newton Adrian C. , Vicent Antonio , Xu Xiangming
Published: May 2024

Advances continue to be made by plant pathologists on topics in plant health, environmental protection and food security. Many advances have been made for individual crops, pathogens and diseases that in many cases have led to their successful management. A wider impact of research depends on recognition of the multifaceted challenges posed by plant diseases and the need to integrate studies in a systems level approach. The adoption of high‐throughput sequencing for diagnosis and detection is widespread but impact depends upon the agricultural and ecological context combined with improved surveillance. Deployment of host resistance in the field needs to be aligned with a greater appreciation of plant genetic diversity and the complementary contribution made by tolerance of disease. Epidemiological understanding of the spatiotemporal spread of plant diseases has improved through population dynamic and genetic analyses. Research emphasis on the plant microbiome has invigorated soil microbial studies, especially for disease complexes and declines, but the challenge is to move to interventions that benefit plant health. Analysis of the impacts of climate change has been made for single‐crop disease studies, but seldom have these been placed in the context of pathogen adaptation, new crops, wild plants, vectors and soil microbes. Advances in informatic analysis illustrate not only the global impacts of plant disease introductions, but also the challenges inherent in marshalling and integrating information. Advances have been made in applying artificial intelligence technologies across many areas of plant pathology but have yet to be integrated within any coordinated research agenda.
StMAPK10 gene functional identification and analysis in drought resistance of potato crop (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Majeed Yasir , Zhang Ning , Zhu Xi , Liu Shengyan , Si Huaijun
Published: May 2024

All over the world, potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production is constrained by several biotic and abiotic factors. Many techniques and mechanisms have been used to overcome these hurdles and increase food for the rising population. In crop plants, the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade, a significant regulator of the MAPK pathway under various biotic and abiotic stress conditions, is one of the targets to increase productivity. MAPK plays a significant role under drought stress in potato. However, the function of MAPK in drought resistance in potato is poorly understood. In this study, we wanted to identify the function of StMAPK10 in the drought resistance in potato. StMAPK10 was up‐regulated under drought conditions and dynamically modulated by abiotic stresses. Over‐expression and down‐regulation of StMAPK10 revealed that StMAPK10 stimulated potato growth under drought conditions, as demonstrated by changes in SOD, CAT, and POD activity, as well as H2O2, proline, and MDA content. StMAPK10 up‐regulation exaggerated the drought resistance of the potato plant by uplifting antioxidant activities and photosynthetic indices. Overexpressed‐StMAPK10 potato lines showed highly significant results for physiological and photosynthetic indices in response to drought stress, while knockdown expression showed opposite outcomes. Additionally, subcellular localization and phenotypic analysis of transgenic and non‐transgenic plants substantiated the role of the increased expression of StMAPK10 against drought stress. The results could provide novel insights into the functionality of StMAPK10 in drought responses and conceivable mechanisms.
Association of preoperative neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio with the risk of postoperative delirium in elderly patients undergoing noncardiac surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Bo , Yu Dong Dong , Xu Xin , Wang Jing , Li Jianli
Published: May 2024

To assess the correlation between preoperative neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and risk of postoperative delirium (POD) in older patients undergoing noncardiac surgery. PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus were systematically retrieved from inception until February 2023. Two authors independently conducted the selection of literature, data extraction and statistical analysis. In this meta‐analysis, Review Manager 5.4 was used for statistical analysis, and the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of preoperative NLR between the POD group and non‐POD group were calculated. We utilised the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) to evaluate the quality of literature. Further, our meta‐analysis used a random‐effects model, and publication bias was evaluated by conducting a funnel plot. The correlation between preoperative NLR and POD was the primary outcome, and the secondary outcome was the association of other prognostic factors with the risk of POD. This meta‐analysis included seven studies with 2424 patients, of whom 403 were diagnosed with POD with an incidence of 16.63%. Results indicated a positive correlation between preoperative NLR and the risk of POD (MD = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.64–1.49; P < 0.001). Further, our results found that neutrophil counts, advanced age, longer surgery time, diabetes, and elevated C‐reactive protein were significantly associated with POD (MD = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.40–1.56; P = 0.001; MD = 4.20, 95% CI: 2.90–5.51; P < 0.001; MD = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.05–0.25; P < 0.01; OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.08–1.86; P = 0.01; MD = 1.26, 95% CI: 0.36–2.16; P < 0.01). Other factors including lymphocyte counts, hypertension and male gender were not significantly associated with POD (MD = −0.11, 95% CI: −0.27 to 0.05; P > 0.05; OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.91–1.58, P > 0.05; OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.00–1.63; P = 0.05). Our meta‐analysis indicated a positive correlation between preoperative NLR and the risk of POD in older noncardiac surgery patients.
Determinants of radiation exposure during mobile cone‐beam CT‐guided robotic‐assisted bronchoscopy
Authors: Kalchiem‐Dekel Or , Bergemann Reza , Ma Xiaoyue , Christos Paul J. , Miodownik Daniel , Gao Yiming , Mahmood Usman , Adusumilli Prasad S. , Bott Matthew J. , Dycoco Joseph , Gelblum Daphna Y. , Lee Robert P. , Park Bernard J. , Rocco Gaetano , Solomon Stephen B. , Jones David R. , Chawla Mohit , Husta Bryan C.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

Robotic‐assisted bronchoscopy (RAB) is an emerging modality to sample pulmonary lesions. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) can be incorporated into RAB. We investigated the magnitude and predictors of patient and staff radiation exposure during mobile CBCT‐guided shape‐sensing RAB.

Methods

Patient radiation dose was estimated by cumulative dose area product (cDAP) and cumulative reference air kerma (cRAK). Staff equivalent dose was calculated based on isokerma maps and a phantom simulation. Patient, lesion and procedure‐related factors associated with higher radiation doses were identified by logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 198 RAB cases were included in the analysis. The median patient cDAP and cRAK were 10.86 Gy cm2 (IQR: 4.62–20.84) and 76.20 mGy (IQR: 38.96–148.38), respectively. Among staff members, the bronchoscopist was exposed to the highest median equivalent dose of 1.48 μSv (IQR: 0.85–2.69). Both patient and staff radiation doses increased with the number of CBCT spins and targeted lesions (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). Patient obesity, negative bronchus sign, lesion size <2.0 cm and inadequate sampling by on‐site evaluation were associated with a higher patient dose, while patient obesity and inadequate sampling by on‐site evaluation were associated with a higher bronchoscopist equivalent dose.

Conclusion

The magnitude of patient and staff radiation exposure during CBCT‐RAB is aligned with safety thresholds recommended by regulatory authorities. Factors associated with a higher radiation exposure during CBCT‐RAB can be identified pre‐operatively and solicit procedural optimization by reinforcing radiation protective measures. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings across multiple institutions and practices.

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Webster's anti‐antimasque in The Duchess of Malfi
Authors: Lonsberry Gabriel
Published: May 2024

The masque of madmen in John Webster's The Duchess of Malfi probably originated as an antimasque in Thomas Campion's The Lords' Masque, staged at court in February 1613 to celebrate the wedding of Princess Elizabeth Stuart. In recent years, Elizabeth's brother, Henry, had used masques and other forms of courtly display to make himself the face of a dissenting militant Protestant movement in England. And, following his death in November 1612, devastated supporters like Webster transferred their hopes to Elizabeth, whose marriage to a Protestant prince seemed to preserve the possibilities of reform at home and religious intervention abroad. However, the pacifist King James commissioned The Lords' Masque to extinguish such hopes, defining the marriage's significance as conciliatory rather than confessional and reestablishing his sole authority over the court stage Henry had tried to usurp. Thus, Webster's use of Campion's antimasque is deeply ironic, allowing him to criticize the King's suppression and censorship of his son's cause, and to lament both the bastardization of Henry's memory and the uncertain future of the movement he had represented. Moreover, reading the masque of madmen alongside Webster's elegy for the Prince, A Monumental Column, highlights Webster's deepening pessimism across this period.
The relationship between freight train length and the risk of derailment
Authors: Madsen Peter M. , Dillon Robin L. , Triantis Konstantinos P. , Bradley Joseph A.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, longer and heavier trains have become more common, primarily driven by efficiency and cost‐saving measures in the railroad industry. Regulation of train length is currently under consideration in the United States at both the federal and state levels, because of concerns that longer trains may have a higher risk of derailment, but the relationship between train length and risk of derailment is not yet well understood. In this study, we use data on freight train accidents during the 2013–2022 period from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Rail Equipment Accident and Highway‐Rail Grade Crossing Accident databases to estimate the relationship between freight train length and the risk of derailment. We determine that longer trains do have a greater risk of derailment. Based on our analysis, running 100‐car trains is associated with 1.11 (95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.12) times the derailment odds of running 50‐car trains (or a 11% increase), even accounting for the fact that only half as many 100‐car trains would need to run. For 200‐car trains, the odds increase by 24% (odds ratio 1.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.20–1.28), again accounting for the need for fewer trains. Understanding derailment risk is an important component for evaluating the overall safety of the rail system and for the future development and regulation of freight rail transportation. Given the limitations of the current data on freight train length, this study provides an important step toward such an understanding.
Reputation management in turmoil—An analysis of the clashing narratives in the introduction of a “salmon tax” in Norway
Authors: Christensen Tom , Lægreid Per
Published: May 2024

This study deals with reputation management, addressing collective issues, strategic communication by the government, and the dynamics between this communication and counter‐symbols from societal stakeholders. Empirically, it examines the political debates in Norway in recent years regarding the conflict over establishing a “ground rent” tax on extra profit earned through use of natural resources belonging to the community, related to salmon farming. The overall research question is how major concepts from reputation theory can explain the process and outcome of the decision‐making process. A main finding is that reputation varies across reputational dimensions and actors, and between government and audiences. Another is that it is necessary to examine reputation in relation to the field, the actors, and the task environment it concerns. The study also shows that reputation management is informed by the politics of reputation, revealing the challenge of balancing evidence‐based policy making and being responsive to opinion‐based stakeholder input, and that reputational threats and strategic communication are interlinked.
Oral health status among the transgender population of India: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mehta Vini , Negi Sapna , Mathur Ankita , Tripathy Snehasish , Oberoi Simmi , Shamim Muhammad Aaqib , Karobari Isaqali
Published: May 2024

Background

The invisibility of the transgender population within official records, combined with other socio‐economic factors, impacts oral health status among transgender people. Hence, our systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to generate a pooled estimate of the oral health status of the transgender community in India.

Material and methods

A systematic search was performed across four databases. The studies included a quantitative research design conducted in India and involved self‐identified transgender individuals. The pooled prevalence was determined at a 95% confidence interval (CI). Q‐statistics and the I2 test were utilized to evaluate the source of heterogeneity. Leave‐one‐out analysis and Baujat plots were used to detect outliers within the studies. A Doi plot and LFK index were employed to assess the publication bias.

Results

A total of 12 studies comprising 1566 transgender participants were included. The pooled prevalence of toothbrush use among transgenders in India was found at 83% (95% CI: 0.73–0.91), smoking = 12% (CI: 0.03–0.26), smokeless tobacco = 53% (CI = 0.38–0.68), dental caries = 78% (CI: 67%–88%), calculus = 65% (CI: 0.4–0.86), and bleeding 18% (CI:0.08–0.32).

Conclusion

Oral health disparities among Indian transgender individuals are evident in the low toothbrush usage, an elevated prevalence of tobacco use, and dental disorders such as calculus, cavities, and bleeding. Tailored dental health programs that include inclusive healthcare services and awareness are essential.

Prospero registration

CRD42023468872
Logical exceptionalism: Development and predicaments
Authors: Chen Bo
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the conceptions of logic from Leibniz, Hume, Kant, Frege, Wittgenstein and Ayer, and regards the six philosophers as the representatives of logical exceptionalism. From their standpoints, this paper refines the tenets of logical exceptionalism as follows: logic is exceptional to all other sciences because of four reasons: (i) logic is formal, neutral to any domain and any entities, and general; (ii) logical truths are made true by the meanings of logical constants they contain or by logicians' rational insight to consequence relations; (iii) logical truths are analytical, a prior and necessary, so not‐revisable; and (iv) logical laws are normative for how to correctly think. However, logical exceptionalism has encountered difficult open problems: What are logical constants? How to justify basic laws of logic? How are logical laws accessible to us? How to explain the reasonability of rival logics and select from them? How to explain the universal applicability of logical laws? How to explain the normativity of logical laws for correct thinking? This paper concludes that logical anti‐exceptionalism is more hopeful to successfully answer these questions than logical exceptionalism.
Antiviral therapies for the management of persistent coronavirus disease 2019 in immunocompromised hosts: A narrative review
Authors: Kinsella Paul M. , Moso Michael A. , Morrissey Catherine Orla , Dendle Claire , Guy Stephen , Bond Katherine , Sasadeusz Joseph , Slavin Monica A.
Published: May 2024

Antiviral agents with activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) have played a critical role in disease management; however, little is known regarding the efficacy of these medications in the treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in immunocompromised patients, particularly in the management of persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity.

This narrative review discusses the management of persistent coronavirus disease 2019 in immunocompromised hosts, with a focus on antiviral therapies. We identified 84 cases from the literature describing a variety of approaches, including prolonged antiviral therapy (n= 11), combination antivirals (n= 13), and mixed therapy with antiviral and antibody treatments (n= 60). A high proportion had an underlying haematologic malignancy (n= 67, 80%), and were in receipt of anti‐CD20 agents (n= 51, 60%). Success was reported in 70 cases (83%) which varied according to the therapy type. Combination therapies with antivirals may be an effective approach for individuals with persistent SARS‐CoV‐2 positivity, particularly those that incorporate treatments aimed at increasing neutralizing antibody levels. Any novel approaches taken to this difficult management dilemma should be mindful of the emergence of antiviral resistance.
Accuracy of RHC/c genotyping in Chinese Han population
Authors: Zhou Shihang , Liu Ming , Shao Linnan , Song Wenqian , Wang Liying , Fan Yaxin
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

The RHCE gene plays an important role in the complex and polymorphic Rh blood group system. RHCE genotyping holds significant clinical and transfusion‐related implications. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of RHC/c genotyping in the Chinese Han population.

Materials and Methods

Blood samples were obtained from 653 Chinese Han blood donors. The serological RhD and RhCcEe types were determined using monoclonal antibodies. Subsequently, multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was performed for RHC and RHc genotyping. Additionally, exon 2 of RHCE and exon 1 of RHD were sequenced.

Results

The analysis in this study found 443 RhD‐positive donors and 210 RhD‐negative donors. Among the 653 total donors, discrepancies between the RHC genotyping results and the serological results were found in 37 individuals. Specifically, 6 false‐positive RhC results in RhD‐positive donors and 28 false‐positive RhC results in RhD‐negative donors were identified based on c.48C in RHCE exon 1. Additionally, 3 false‐negative RhC results were observed in the RhD‐positive donors due to a 109 bp insertion in RHCE intron 2. RHc typing demonstrated complete consistency between the real‐time PCR and the serological results.

Conclusion

In the Chinese Han population, RHC genotyping was reliable when consistent results were achieved by both c.48C‐based and 109 bp insertion‐based genotyping. Moreover, RHc genotyping based on c.203A and c.307C polymorphic loci demonstrated dependable performance.
Clinicopathologic findings of splenic marginal zone lymphoma with gallbladder involvement that progressed to diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in a dog
Authors: Akiyoshi Makoto , Hisasue Masaharu , Goto‐Koshino Yuko , Asakawa Midori Goto , Neo Sakurako , Akiyoshi Masami , Tomiyasu Hirotaka
Published: May 2024

A 12‐year‐old spayed female Dalmatian presented with acute vomiting and anorexia. The clinicopathological and imaging abnormalities included icterus, biliary obstruction, and multiple diffuse splenic hypoechogenic nodules. Cholecystectomy was performed to remove the obstruction, followed by liver biopsy and splenectomy. Histopathological and immunohistology evaluation of the spleen, liver, and gallbladder revealed splenic marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) with gallbladder and hepatic infiltration of neoplastic CD20/CD79α‐positive cells. Moreover, we observed clonal rearrangements of the immunoglobulin heavy‐chain (IgH) gene in all three tissues. The dog was in good condition without chemotherapy. However, there was progressive elevation of liver enzymes, which could be attributed to neoplastic hepatic infiltration. Chlorambucil and prednisolone were administered until day 108, when the liver enzyme levels normalized. On day 156, the dog developed diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the peripheral lymph nodes. Sequence analysis of the clonally rearranged IgH gene revealed that all neoplastic cells in the spleen, gallbladder, and liver at initial presentation, as well as lymph nodes on day 156, possessed the same sequence identity of the amplified IgH fragments. This demonstrated that all neoplastic cells were derived from the same B‐lymphocyte clone. The DLBCL was considered to have transformed from the splenic MZL, with gallbladder involvement. In cases of splenic MZL, it is important to consider gallbladder involvement and transformation to DLBCL. Moreover, gallbladder lymphoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of dogs with gallbladder abnormalities. Further studies are warranted to investigate the prognosis of splenic MZL.
Outcome of tenoscopically guided palmar/plantar annular ligament desmotomy for the treatment of palmar/plantar annular ligament constriction without concurrent intrathecal soft‐tissue injury in a UK horse population
Authors: Wood Andrew Douglas , Parker Russell Alexander , Marcatili Marco , Anderson Jonathan , Robinson Natalie , Stack John David
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine the outcome of tenoscopically guided palmar/plantar annular ligament (PAL) desmotomy to treat PAL constriction without concurrent intrathecal soft‐tissue injury, notably of the digital flexor tendons and manica flexoria.

Study design

Retrospective multicenter cohort study.

Animals

Sixty‐five horses.

Methods

Horses from four UK equine hospitals, with digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS) tenosynovitis, which underwent tenoscopically guided PAL desmotomy for treatment of PAL constriction between 2017 and 2022 were included. All horses had lameness isolated to the DFTS/PAL, and PAL constriction was diagnosed tenoscopically when there was difficulty maneuvering the endoscope into or through the fetlock canal. Horses with tearing of the digital flexor tendons and/or manica flexoria, or any other intrathecal pathology, were excluded. Follow up was via structured telephone questionnaire.

Results

Follow up (median 25 months) was available for 61 horses with cobs and ponies predominating. Forty‐two returned to their previous level of work, or a higher level, postoperatively and 50 owners were satisfied with the outcome of surgery. Eleven horses returned to lower level exercise, and six were retired/euthanized as they did not regain soundness. Fifty‐two horses achieved soundness (median 3 months postoperatively).

Conclusion

Tenoscopically guided PAL desmotomy for the treatment of PAL constriction in the absence of intrathecal soft tissue injury had a good prognosis for return to previous levels of exercise in a UK horse population.

Clinical significance

The prognosis for horses undergoing tenoscopically guided PAL desmotomy to treat PAL constriction in the absence of intrathecal injury is better than previously described. Cobs and ponies seem to be predisposed to PAL constriction in agreement with the previous literature.
Quadratic forms and Genus Theory: A link with 2‐descent and an application to nontrivial specializations of ideal classes
Authors: Dallaporta William
Published: May 2024

Genus Theory is a classical feature of integral binary quadratic forms. Using the author's generalization of the well‐known correspondence between quadratic form classes and ideal classes of quadratic algebras, we extend it to the case when quadratic forms are twisted and have coefficients in any principal ideal domain (PID) . When , we show that the Genus Theory map is the quadratic form version of the 2‐descent map on a certain hyperelliptic curve. As an application, we make a contribution to a question of Agboola and Pappas regarding a specialization problem of divisor classes on hyperelliptic curves. Under suitable assumptions, we prove that the set of nontrivial specializations has density 1.