bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of different toothbrushing patterns among schoolchildren in an urban area of Argentina
Authors: Rossi Glenda N. , Salgado Pablo A. , Squassi Aldo F.
Published: April 2024

Aim

To identify toothbrushing patterns among schoolchildren with no prior dental hygiene training and associate them with effectiveness for eliminating dental biofilm.

Materials and Methods

Eight calibrated dentists assessed dental biofilm, toothbrushing procedure and dental status and registered: grip, bristle angle with respect to tooth, type of movement, surfaces brushed, simultaneous brushing of both jaws, including all six sextants and duration of brushing dental biofilm before and after brushing was determined in 944 children. Frequency distribution was calculated for nominal variables and central tendency and dispersion for quantitative variables of the toothbrushing procedure. Effectiveness was evaluated in 236 children by calculating differences between biofilm levels before and after brushing using Student's test. A cutoff value was established for the difference in reductions in biofilm levels by means of an ROC curve.

Results

The variables including all 6 sextants and bristle angle showed positive association with biofilm reduction. The cutoff point for biofilm reduction for including all 6 sextants was 66.85% (OR 6.4 [3.6–11.38]). The cutoff value for biofilm reduction for bristle angle was 68.35% (OR 3.2 [1.83–5.8]).

Conclusion

The variables associated with biofilm reduction can be used to optimize the modality of future educational interventions in schoolchildren.
Toughening mechanism of B4C/TiB2 ceramic materials by in situ reaction via spark plasma sintering
Authors: Du Zepei , Yi Mingdong , Chen Shibing , Zhang Jingjie , Xiao Guangchun , Chen Zhaoqiang , Chen Hui , Xu Chonghai
Published: April 2024

To enhance the fracture toughness of B4C ceramics, B4C/TiB2 ceramics with excellent performance were prepared by using TiO2 as the addition item and using spark plasma sintering to introduce TiB2 based on in situ reaction, which was compared with ceramics directly introduced with TiB2, the impacts of TiO2 content, temperature and holding time on B4C/TiB2 ceramics were studied, and the toughening mechanism of B4C/TiB2 ceramics in situ reaction was discussed. The results showed that compared with the ceramics directly introduced with TiB2, B4C/TiB2 ceramics with reinforcement phase TiB2 introduced through in‐situ reaction were easier to obtain higher relative density and better properties. Due to the existence of a discharge effect and the application of pulse current, B4C/TiB2 ceramics with excellent comprehensive properties can be prepared at lower temperatures and short time. When 15 vol% TiO2 was added, the temperature was 1750°C and the holding time was 10 min, the comprehensive properties were better, and their relative density, Vickers hardness, flexural strength, and fracture toughness were 98.5%, 27.72 GPa, 474 MPa, and 5.08 MPa·m1/2, respectively. Toughening mechanisms such as crack deflection, crack branching, and crack bridging improved the fracture toughness.
The moderating role of psychological resilience in the relationship between fear of COVID‐19 and psychological distress, in a cohort of rural and regional healthcare workers. During major lockdowns in Victoria, Australia 2020–2021
Authors: Petrou Georgia , Crombie Angela , Begg Stephen , Skinner Timothy , Faulkner Peter , McEvoy Anne , Parker Carol , Masman Kevin , Bamforth Laura , Caccaviello Gabriel , Stanyer Evan , McEvoy Mark
Published: April 2024

The emergence of the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in substantial pressures for healthcare workers across the world. The association between fear of COVID‐19 and psychological distress, and the role of psychological resilience have gained research interest. The current study aimed to investigate the cross‐sectional association between fear of COVID‐19 and psychological distress, in Australian rural/regional healthcare workers and determine whether resilience modifies this association. Most participants were nurses (38.0%), mean age was 44.9 years, and 80.5% were female (N = 1313). An adjusted logistic regression analysis showed that the highest tertile of the Fear of COVID‐19 scale was associated with higher odds of moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety (OR = 3.72, 95% CI = 2.27, 6.11; p < 0.001) and depression (OR = 3.48, 95% CI = 2.30, 5.28; p < 0.001). Healthcare workers with high level of fear of COVID‐19 and low level of resilience were much more likely to report moderate to severe symptoms of anxiety (OR = 12.27, 95% CI = 6.65–22.65, p < 0.001) and depression (OR = 12.21, 95% CI = 6.93–21.50, p < 0.001) when compared to healthcare workers with low level of fear of COVID‐19 and high level of resilience. A cross‐sectional design was used and therefore cause and effect between fear of COVID‐19 and psychological distress cannot be inferred. Longitudinal research is needed to investigate the possible causal relationship. These findings highlight the potential mental health effects of fear of COVID‐19 on HCWs and demonstrate the importance of resilience as a possible moderator of these effects.
Evaluation of the effect on the permanent tooth germ and the adjacent teeth by finite element impact analysis in the traumatized primary tooth
Authors: Kurt Ayça , Yaylacı Murat , Dizdar Ayberk , Naralan Muhammed Enes , Yaylacı Ecren Uzun , Öztürk Şevval , Çakır Binali
Published: April 2024

Background

One of the primary concerns in the paediatric emergencies is traumatic dental injuries.

Objective

This study aimed to create trauma in primary teeth and reveal its effects finite element analysis.

Design

Three‐dimensional models were created using cone‐beam computed tomography images, representing a maxillary primary central incisor. An impact force moving at a speed of 10 m/s was simulated on the labial tooth surface in two directions: buccal and incisal.

Results

The stress and deformation experienced in the adjacent tooth due to the primary tooth were higher than those generated in the permanent tooth. Forces applied in the incisal direction resulted in higher levels of stress and deformation in the permanent tooth germ. The difference between the stress and deformation values in primary teeth in the forces applied in the buccal and incisal directions is 21% and 75%, respectively; in the permanent tooth germ, this difference was 233% and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions

Based on the findings of this study, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate not only the affected primary tooth but also the adjacent teeth and the permanent tooth germ in traumatic dental injuries. This comprehensive examination allows for the anticipation and management of potential long‐term problems.
Effect of calcium–magnesium–aluminum silicate composition on reaction behavior for X1‐Gd2SiO5 and X2‐Er2SiO5 environmental barrier coatings
Authors: Liang Ruihui , Zhong Xin , Hong Du , Hu Cui , Zhao Fangxia , Zhang Zhenzhong , Niu Yaran , Zheng Xuebin
Published: April 2024

Rare‐earth (RE) silicates environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) are prone to accelerate failure resulted from molten calcium–magnesium–aluminum silicate (CMAS), which presents significant challenges to the design and development of durable EBCs. In this study, X1‐Gd2SiO5 and X2‐Er2SiO5 coatings were explored on their corrosion resistance to CMAS melts with different Ca/Si ratios (1.1, 0.75, 0.64, and 0.42) at 1350°C for 25 and 50 h, respectively. Results showed that with the Ca/Si ratio increasing, CMAS viscosity decreased and a more intense corrosion reaction with coatings occurred. Garnet phase was only observed in X2‐Er2SiO5 coating corroded by CMAS with high Ca/Si ratios, which could be beneficial for improving corrosion resistance. The X2‐Er2SiO5 phase, which is composed of [SO4] and [REO6]/[REO7] polyhedrons, exhibits better corrosion resistance due to its more stable crystal structure, lower reactivity with CMAS, and the radius difference between the RE ions and Ca2+.
Effect of B2O3/SiO2 molar ratio and B2O3 content on viscosity and structure of B2O3–SiO2–Al2O3–Na2O–TiO2 glass lubricant
Authors: Cui Lei , Lv Wei , Ni Pei‐yuan , Wang Huailiu , Li Ying
Published: April 2024

Glass lubricant with a suitable viscosity is essential for producing high‐quality titanium products by the hot extrusion process. In this study, a novel lubricant of B2O3–SiO2–Al2O3–Na2O–TiO2 (BSANT) glass was proposed, where the effects of B2O3/SiO2 molar ratio (B/Si) and B2O3 content on viscosity and structure were investigated. The results showed that the BSANT glass viscosity was gradually decreased, and the viscous activation energy was decreased by 20.24% with an increased B/Si ratio from 0.415 to 0.719. This was attributed to the decreased amounts of Q3, [BO4], [AlO4], and bridging oxygen (BO) in the network structure, which in turn resulted in a decreased network degree of polymerization. When B2O3 content was increased from 18.70 to 33.12 mol.%, the melt viscosity value at 950 ℃ was decreased by 64.51%, and the viscous activation energy was reduced by 15.82%. Boron anomalies were also observed in glass melts with the B2O3 content from 28.28 to 33.12 mol.%. The mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon were thoroughly discussed in the study. Additionally, a comparison and discussion of the applications of glass lubricants in metal hot working were presented. A glass lubricant with a specific composition was recommended for use in hot extrusion process within the temperature range of 950–1100°C due to its relatively stable viscosity properties.
Racial microaggressions in U.S. and Canadian contexts: Identity, perceptions of severity and the use of mindset signalling to repair harm
Authors: Jenkins Michael , Obhi Sukhvinder S.
Published: April 2024

Microaggressions are behaviours constituting indirect or unintentional discrimination, but little is known about how group identity affects perceptions of their harm. Canada and the United States have similar socio‐cultural backgrounds, but different socio‐political climates, with greater political polarisation and arguably stronger ties between politics and race in the United States (Pew research, 2020). Thus, the interplay between ethnic/racial identity (ERI), political identity, and perceived harm of microaggressions may differ across these countries. In a recent study of Canadians, perceived microaggression harm was associated with leftward political orientation rather than ERI. Here, we extend this work to a U.S. sample. In two experiments (N = 99; N = 210), White participants and Participants of Colour rated the severity of microaggressions and reported their political orientation and the strength of their ERI. Microaggression severity ratings were associated with left‐leaning political orientation, regardless of ERI. In Experiment 2, vignettes in which the perpetrator of a microaggression sought reparation by signalling a “reparatory open‐mindedness” reduced severity ratings compared to instances in which the source doubled down on the microaggression. Interestingly, the size of this reduction in perceived severity was smaller than for Canadian participants. Thus, perceived microaggression harm is governed by similar forces in Canada and the United States, but signalling mindset, while still effective, leads to smaller reductions in perceived harm in the United States. This could indicate differences in intergroup trust and polarization between these nations. This work underscores the role of political orientation in perceptions of microaggressions and highlights the efficacy of mindset signalling in mitigating their harm.
The relationship of depressive symptoms with pain and analgesic use in Turkish adolescents
Authors: Celik Gulbahar , Haney Meryem Öztürk
Published: April 2024

Problem

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms, pain (headache, abdominal pain, back pain) and analgesic use among Turkish adolescents. Additionally, it aimed to examine the association between depressive symptoms and pain and analgesic use in adolescents.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, correlational study was conducted in Izmir, Turkey with 954 adolescents aged 11–19 years. Data were collected with the “socio‐demographic questionnaires” and the “Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale for Children”. Analyzes were performed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analysis.

Findings

Of the adolescents, 632 (66.2%) showed depressive symptoms. Of the adolescents, 424 (44.4%) experienced headache, 256 (26.8%) experienced abdominal pain, and 343 (36.0%) experienced back pain. A total of 309 (32.4%) adolescents used analgesics for headaches, 132 (13.8%) abdominal pain, and 47 (4.9%) for back pain. Female gender, high level maternal education, bad economic status, poor health perception, bad school success, pain and analgesic use were the correlated variables with adolescent depression.

Conclusions

The depressive symptoms, headache and back pain, and use of analgesics especially for headaches were common among adolescents. The results showed depression in adolescent correlated with pain (headache, abdominal pain, and back pain) and analgesic use. Regular screening is needed to assure early intervention of depression among adolescents.
Exploring hidden diversity: Molecular insights into the Leporinus species of the rivers of the Brazilian states of Maranhão and Piauí
Authors: Nascimento Maria Histelle Sousa , Birindelli José Luis Olivan , Fraga Elmary , Barros Maria Claudene
Published: April 2024

The present study delved into the world of hidden diversity by examining specimens identified as Leporinus piau from the river basins of the northern Brazilian states of Maranhão and Piauí. Using genetic analyses that combined data from three mitochondrial markers and one nuclear marker, the study identified two well‐supported groups, reinforcing the findings of previous publications. The first group, found in samples from the Itapecuru, Mearim, Turiaçu, and Pericumã basins, in Maranhão, appears to represent a relatively ancient diversification and the possibility of concealed cryptic diversity. The second group, comprising specimens from the Parnaíba (Piauí) and Mearim (Maranhão) basins, appears to have resulted from a more recent process of diversification and has a close relationship with Leporinus friderici from the type locality. Our findings not only confirm the existence of a complex scenario of cryptic diversity in the genus Leporinus from the study basins but also underscore the taxonomic inconsistencies within this group of fish. This study offers a comprehensive analysis of the species diversity of the Maranhão and Piauí basins, which are critical regions for the conservation of Amazonian fish, providing valuable insights for the sustainable management and conservation of these fish.
Embedded but overlooked values: Ethical aspects of absolute environmental sustainability assessments
Authors: Heide Mia , Gjerris Mickey
Published: April 2024

Currently used sharing principles (grandfathering and final consumption expenditure) do not align with the purpose of Absolute Environmental Sustainability Assessments (AESAs)—enabling all to meet basic needs within the planetary limits. This discrepancy, though niche within life cycle engineering, demands attention due to the integration of the sharing principles in the widely adopted Science Based Targets initiative, embraced by 4000+ companies, representing over a third of the global economy. This paper suggests operationalizing sufficientarianism as a fair sharing principle for AESAs guaranteeing a minimum threshold of well‐being for all. The theory of human needs is highlighted to distinguish luxuries from necessities. This is vital when assigning shares to products/companies, as there's no room for luxuries (products for someone which cause others to fall short), given the extremely limited individual safe operating space, regardless of the sharing approach. This paper argues that sufficientarian‐based sharing principles must overlook historically skewed material welfare distributions to ensure no one falls below the minimum threshold. It underscores the need for an interdisciplinary approach to sharing principles, acknowledging and discussing diverse value perspectives on equal grounds. The focus is to inform and discuss the development of new sharing principles, which introduces initial steps toward a sufficientarian‐based approach. The paper concludes that recognizing embedded values is paramount in sharing principle development. Failing to do so risks letting quantifiable metrics dictate the values integrated into AESAs without open discourse.
Countercyclical Income Risk and Portfolio Choices: Evidence from Sweden
Authors: CATHERINE SYLVAIN , SODINI PAOLO , ZHANG YAPEI
Published: April 2024

Using Swedish administrative panel data, we document that workers facing higher left‐tail income risk when equity markets perform poorly have lower portfolio equity share. In line with theory, the relationship between cyclical skewness and stock holdings increases with the share of human capital in a worker's total wealth and vanishes as workers get closer to retirement. Cyclical skewness also predicts portfolio differences within pairs of identical twins. Our findings show that households hedge against correlated tail risks, an important mechanism in asset pricing and portfolio choice models.
Naturalized metaphysics in the image of Roy Wood Sellars and not Willard Van Orman Quine
Authors: Jaksland Rasmus
Published: April 2024

The naturalized metaphysics promoted by Ladyman and Ross, among others, is often described as (neo)‐Quinean metaphysics. This association with Quine's naturalism can, however, give a misleading impression of the aims and commitments of this kind of naturalized metaphysics. Contrary to Quine, these naturalized metaphysicians endorse metaphysical realism and offer wholesale arguments in favor of the epistemic standing of science‐based metaphysics. Accordingly, this naturalized metaphysics comes closer to Roy Wood Sellars's evolutionary naturalism, especially since the theory of evolution is central to the criticism that naturalized metaphysics levels at nonnaturalized metaphysics. The paper argues that Sellars's naturalism is furthermore helpful (1) for explicating the naturalism of naturalized metaphysics, (2) for theorizing a more general naturalist basis for naturalized metaphysics, and (3) for suggesting where naturalized metaphysics is perhaps not naturalist enough, especially when it comes to considering the implications of the theory of evolution for its positive program.
What Next for Theological Interpretation of Scripture?
Authors: Rowlands Jonathan
Published: April 2024

In this article, the author explores what the future might hold for the sensibility known as Theological Interpretation of Scripture (TIS). In doing so, he identifies and discusses three interconnected areas TIS might from benefit reflecting more deeply upon. They are: (1) questions of Scripture's ontology; (2) notions of textuality and textual meaning; and, finally, (3) the concept of ‘mood’ as it relates to scriptural interpretation.
Comparative transcriptional analysis of Persea americana MYB, WRKY and AP2/ERF transcription factors following Phytophthora cinnamomi infection
Authors: Fick Alicia , Swart Velushka , Bombarely Aureliano , van den Berg Noëlani
Published: April 2024

Plant cells undergo extensive transcriptional reprogramming following pathogen infection, with these reprogramming patterns becoming more complex when pathogens, such as hemibiotrophs, exhibit different lifestyles. These transcriptional changes are often orchestrated by MYB, WRKY and AP2/ERF transcription factors (TFs), which modulate both growth and defence‐related gene expression. Transcriptional analysis of defence‐related genes in avocado (Persea americana) infected with Phytophthora cinnamomi indicated differential immune response activation when comparing a partially resistant and susceptible rootstock. This study identified 226 MYB, 82 WRKY, and 174 AP2/ERF TF‐encoding genes in avocado, using a genome‐wide approach. Phylogenetic analysis revealed substantial sequence conservation within TF groups underscoring their functional significance. RNA‐sequencing analysis in a partially resistant and susceptible avocado rootstock infected with P. cinnamomi was indicative of an immune response switch occurring in either rootstock after 24 and 6 h post‐inoculation, respectively. Different clusters of co‐expressed TF genes were observed at these times, suggesting the activation of necrotroph‐related immune responses at varying intervals between the two rootstocks. This study aids our understanding of avocado immune response activation following P. cinnamomi infection, and the role of the TFs therein, elucidating the transcriptional reprogramming disparities between partially resistant and susceptible rootstocks.
Informal caregivers' experiences of support from a tailored primary healthcare unit for older adults – A focus group study
Authors: Westerling Ulrika , Hellgren Mikko , Hermansson Liselotte , Strid Emma Nilsing
Published: April 2024

Background

Informal caregivers are an essential part of health and social care systems worldwide. As such, they may need professional support.

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe informal caregivers’ experiences and need for support from a tailored primary health care (PHC) unit.

Methods

This is a qualitative descriptive study using data collected from five semi‐structured focus group discussions with a purposeful sample of 16 informal caregivers of older relatives. Respondents were recruited from a tailored PHC unit for people aged 75 years or older in a region in central Sweden. The data were analysed by qualitative content analysis with an abductive approach, based on the principles of the patient‐ and family‐centred care framework.

Results

The overarching theme was ‘Striving for partnership’. The findings indicate that informal caregivers to some extent felt supported by the healthcare professionals. However, the caregivers expressed a need to be further acknowledged by the professionals in order to participate in the care of their older relatives in the way they wanted. Moreover, insufficient information regarding the older adult's health condition and care provided by the professionals had a negative impact on the caregiver's participation in care.

Conclusions

Informal caregivers have unmet needs for support and strive for a partnership with the PHC professionals. PHC professionals should be more attentive and invite informal caregivers to participate in the care of the older adult in order to meet their support needs and build an equal partnership. The patient‐ and family‐centred care framework may be of guidance when providing care for older adults in a PHC context.
Longitudinal study examining academic expectation stress and distrust for Chinese adolescents: The roles of internalizing problems and hope
Authors: Feng Ningning , Yang Ying , Xie Zhaoyang , Qiu Tian , Cui Lijuan
Published: April 2024

Distrust in social interaction is linked to health issues during adolescence, ranging from loneliness to aggression engagement. Previous research has attempted to elucidate the decline in trust from the perspective of perceived pressures, yet the understanding of how academic‐related pressures are related to distrust among adolescents is still limited. This 1‐year longitudinal study aims to examine the psychological mechanism underlying the relationship between academic expectation stress (i.e., the stress due to the external and internal expectations of academic performance) and the development of adolescent distrust. A total of 1992 Chinese adolescents in 7th and 8th grades completed measures of academic expectation stress, distrust, internalizing problems (i.e., stress, anxiety, and depression), and hope in a two‐wave longitudinal study (Time 1: December 2020; Time 2: December 2021; 54.42% girls; Mage at Time 2 = 14.02, SD = .76). Results showed that higher academic expectation stress at Time 1 predicted distrust 1 year later through increased internalizing problems. The relationship between academic expectation stress and later distrust as well as the longitudinal mediating effects of internalizing problems were stronger for adolescents with lower hope, whereas the total effect, direct effect, and mediation effects were nonsignificant for those with higher hope. The present study suggests that stressful academic expectations may impact adolescents’ intention to trust others, and highlights the protective role of hope in the psychosocial adjustment of adolescents who encounter stress from academic expectations.
High molecular weight hyaluronic acid vectorised with clay provides long‐term hydration and reduces skin brightness
Authors: De Tollenaere Morgane , Meunier Marie , Lapierre Laura , Chapuis Emilie , Guilleret Arnaud , Harrison Ian , Jean Tiguemounine , Rannou Alexis , Scandolera Amandine , Reynaud Romain
Published: April 2024

Background

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a widely used active cosmetic ingredient. Its multiple skin care benefits are modulated by its molecular weight. Low molecular weight (LMW) HA can penetrate the skin, but high molecular weight (HMW) HA remains at the surface. Here, we assessed how vectorization of HMW HA with bentonite clay—achieved with an innovative technology—enhances its cosmetic and hydrating properties.

Materials and Methods

The two HA forms were applied to skin explants; their penetration and smoothing effects were monitored by Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The two forms were biochemically characterised by chromatography, enzyme sensitivity assays, and analysis of Zeta potential. Cosmetics benefits such as, the smoothing effect of vectorised‐HA was assessed in ex vivo experiments on skin explants. A placebo‐controlled clinical study was finally conducted applying treatments for 28 days to analyse the final benefits in crow's feet area.

Results

Raman spectroscopy analysis revealed native HMW HA to accumulate at the surface of skin explants, whereas vectorised HMW HA was detected in deeper skin layers. This innovative vectorisation process changed the zeta potential of vectorised HMW HA, being then more anionic and negative without impacting the biochemical structure of native HA. In terms of cosmetic benefits, following application of vectorised HMW HA ex vivo, the skin's surface was visibly smoother. This smoothing was clinically confirmed, with a significant reduction in fine lines.

Conclusion

The development of innovative process vectorising HMW HA allowed HMW HA penetration in the skin. This enhanced penetration extends the clinical benefits of this iconic cosmetic ingredient.
Crustal anisotropy beneath southeast Tibet revealed by Pms arrival times
Authors: Huang Peixi , Gao Yuan , Wu Jing
Published: April 2024

The mechanisms of uplift and deformation of the Tibetan Plateau are highly concerned. Understanding the crustal deformation mechanisms beneath southeast Tibet is important as it is located at the major path of Tibet's growth or expansion. Recent studies are controversial on whether large‐scale crustal flow is dominant or not in this area. We applied Pms arrival time technique based on receiver function to events from 10 years of observation and obtained the crustal anisotropy parameters. The results show that both the large‐scale faults and local crustal flow play major roles in crustal deformation in interested areas, while the large‐scale crustal flow is not very well preferred. Furthermore, the crustal anisotropy in southeast of the study area is characterized by complex anisotropies, which may be potentially related to the converging of two mantle flows from various origins.
I still don't get it: Easy versus difficult grammar in intermediate German
Authors: Windham Scott , Lange Kristin
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the relative ease or difficulty of grammar commonly taught in intermediate (second‐year) German at the university level. Previous studies have investigated the ease or difficulty of specific grammar structures, factors that make it difficult to learn L2 grammar, and teachers’ and learners’ perceptions of difficult grammar. The aim of the present study was to provide an overview of a year's worth of grammar instruction to guide decisions about grammar sequencing, instructional approaches, and instructional time. Grammar was grouped into units consisting of a pre‐test, an instructional sequence, and a post‐test. Test data were gathered from 498 grammar pre‐ and post‐tests over a 3‐year period. The authors hypothesized that certain grammar topics (e.g., vowel‐changing present‐tense verbs; the perfect) would be relatively easy, while others (e.g., noun and pronoun case; pluperfect) would be relatively difficult. These hypotheses were only partially confirmed. Results showed the pluperfect, comparative and superlative, and preterite were relatively easily learned, whereas fixed prepositions, pronouns, relative clauses, dative verbs, and the passive were much more difficult to learn. The results suggest that instructors focus on easy and essential grammar, introduce difficult grammar without formal assessment, and use test data to sequence topics within and across course levels.
Positive Einstein metrics with as the principal orbit
Authors: Chi Hanci
Published: April 2024

We prove that there exists at least one positive Einstein metric on $\mathbb {HP}^{m+1}\sharp \overline {\mathbb {HP}}^{m+1}$ for $m\geq ~2$. Based on the existence of the first Einstein metric, we give a criterion to check the existence of a second Einstein metric on $\mathbb {HP}^{m+1}\sharp \overline {\mathbb {HP}}^{m+1}$. We also investigate the existence of cohomogeneity-one positive Einstein metrics on $\mathbb {S}^{4m+4}$ and prove the existence of a non-standard Einstein metric on $\mathbb {S}^8$.
Apego y vejez, una nueva perspectiva para la comprensión del bienestar y la regulación emocional en los mayores.
Authors: Quiroga-Méndez María del Pilar
Published: April 2024

Este estudio presenta la teoría del apego aplicada a la vejez. Escasamente utilizada en nuestro idioma, esta teoría supone un marco teórico imprescindible, para comprender el envejecimiento y las diferencias individuales para hacer frente a las pérdidas inevitables y a las enfermedades relacionadas con la edad, considerándose actualmente un importante recurso de resiliencia en la vejez. El artículo comienza señalando que la vejez se quede al margen de la teoría del apego, para continuar exponiendo las características distintivas del apego en la vejez, la evolución de los estilos y las figuras de apego, y la importancia de los apegos simbólicos. La explicación muy actualizada del sustrato biológico del apego, permite comprender su enorme influencia en la salud y en los procesos de regulacion emocional y afrontamiento. Concluimos con la necesidad de investigar en nuestro idioma en esta área pionera de conocimiento para la prevención y promoción de un envejecimiento saludable.
Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics in the Entry and Stabilized Flow Regions of a Circular Channel Rotating About a Parallel Axis
Authors: Ananth Narayan S. , Abraham Satyanand
Published: April 2024

Cooling of heavy-duty electrical machines such as generators and motors is crucial for the smooth operations without thermal runaway. A commonly employed technique for the cooling of rotors in these machines is to place channels at different radial locations for the continuous passage of coolant. These channels are therefore rotating about a parallel axis, and the rotation-induced forces alter the flow and thermal behavior of the coolant compared to stationary channels. The present study reports a detailed numerical investigation on a long circular channel rotating about a parallel axis. The objective is to analyze the flow, heat transfer, and rotation-induced forces (Coriolis and centrifugal forces) in the entry region as well as in the region where flow is stable (the term ‘stable’ is used rather than ‘developed’ due to the presence of secondary flows in this region). The rotating channel was subjected to constant wall heat flux and constant wall temperature conditions at different Rotation numbers of 0, 0.15, 0.4, and 0.6. The Coriolis force is observed to be strong enough in the entry region to influence the flow. In the “stable flow” region, the centrifugal force becomes more dominant and forms counter-rotating secondary vortex pair, which causes circumferential variation in the Nusselt number. The flow and heat transfer characteristics for constant wall heat flux and wall temperature boundaries are the same for rotation conditions with similar values of rotational Grashof number. A correlation is presented for the circumferential variation of the Nusselt number in the stable flow region.
Splenic cysts: clues in sonographic differential diagnosis and a new role for twinkling artifact
Authors: Kabaalioğlu Adnan , Uzer Evren , Keven Ayşe , Gündüz Nesrin , Doğan Hakan , Özmen Evrim
Published: April 2024

Aim: Our aim was to investigate the frequency of various splenic cysts, to define the sonographic differential diagnostic clues and to introduce the value of twinkling artefact in the diagnosis of epidermoid splenic cysts.Material and methods: All the splenic cysts imaged by ultrasound in 3 university hospitals during the period of 2005 to 2022 were recorded, followed-up and analyzed.Results: One hundred seventy-one patients with splenic cysts were detected and these were classified and 73% of the cysts were simple. Ten cysts were epidermoid cysts as proven by post-operative final histology.Conclusion: Cystic splenic lesions are rare. Most of them are small simple cysts. Epidermoid cysts are larger in volume, constitute 6% of the total and can be differentiated by the help of twinkling artefact by Doppler ultrasound.
Influence of Pedal Interface During Pedaling With the Upper Versus Lower Limbs: A Pilot Analysis of Torque Performance and Muscle Synergies
Authors: Vigouroux Laurent , Cartier Théo , Rao Guillaume
Published: April 2024

Pedaling is a physical exercise practiced with either the upper or the lower limbs. Muscle coordination during these exercises has been previously studied using electromyography and synergy analysis, and three to four synergies have been identified for the lower and upper limbs. The question of synergy adaptabilities has not been investigated during pedaling with the upper limbs, and the impact of various modalities is yet not known. This study investigates the effect of pedal type (either clipped/gripped or flat) on the torque performance and the synergy in both upper and lower limbs. Torques applied by six participants while pedaling at 30% of their maximal power have been recorded for both upper and lower limbs. Electromyographic data of 11 muscles on the upper limbs and 11 muscles on the lower limbs have been recorded and synergies extracted and compared between pedal types. Results showed that the torques were not modified by the pedal types for the lower limbs while a deep adaptation is observable for the upper limbs. Participants indeed used the additional holding possibility by pulling the pedals on top of the pushing action. Synergies were accordingly modified for upper limbs while they remain stable for the lower limbs. In both limbs, the synergies showed a good reproducibility even if larger variabilities were observed for the upper limbs. This pilot study highlights the adaptability of muscle synergies according to the condition of movement execution, especially observed for the upper limbs, and can bring some new insights for the rehabilitation exercises.
Structural analyses of the GI.4 norovirus by cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography revealing binding sites for human monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Kimura-Someya Tomomi , Katsura Kazushige , Kato-Murayama Miyuki , Hosaka Toshiaki , Uchikubo-Kamo Tomomi , Ihara Kentaro , Hanada Kazuharu , Sato Shin , Murayama Kazutaka , Kataoka Michiyo , Shirouzu Mikako , Someya Yuichi
Published: April 2024

Noroviruses are major causative agents of acute nonbacterial gastroenteritis in humans. There are neither antiviral therapeutic agents nor vaccines for noroviruses at this time. To evaluate the potential usefulness of two previously isolated human monoclonal antibody fragments, CV-1A1 and CV-2F5, we first conducted a single-particle analysis to determine the cryo-electron microscopy structure of virus-like particles (VLPs) from the genogroup I genotype 4 (GI.4) Chiba strain uniformly coated with CV-1A1 fragments. The results revealed that the GI.4-specific CV-1A1 antibody bound to the P2 subdomain, in which amino acids are less conserved and variable. Interestingly, a part of the CV-1A1 intrudes into the histo-blood group antigen-binding site, suggesting that this antibody might exert neutralizing activity. Next, we determined the crystal structure of the protruding (P) domain of the capsid protein in the complex form with the CV-2F5 antibody fragment. Consistent with the cross-reactivity, the CV-2F5 bound to the P1 subdomain, which is rich in amino acids conserved among the GI strains, and moreover induced a disruption of Chiba VLPs. These results suggest that the broadly reactive CV-2F5 antibody can be used as both a universal detection reagent and an antiviral drug for GI noroviruses.

IMPORTANCE

We conducted the structural analyses of the VP1 protein from the GI.4 Chiba norovirus to identify the binding sites of the previously isolated human monoclonal antibodies CV-1A1 and CV-2F5. The cryo-electron microscopy of the Chiba virus-like particles (VLPs) complexed with the Fv-clasp forms of GI.4-specific CV-1A1 revealed that this antibody binds to the highly variable P2 subdomain, suggesting that this antibody may have neutralizing ability against the GI.4 strains. X-ray crystallography revealed that the CV-2F5 antibody bound to the P1 subdomain, which is rich in conserved amino acids. This result is consistent with the ability of the CV-2F5 antibody to react with a wide variety of GI norovirus strains. It is also found that the CV-2F5 antibody caused a disruption of VLPs. Our findings, together with previous reports on the structures of VP1 proteins and VLPs, are expected to open a path for the structure-based development of antivirals and vaccines against norovirus disease.
New opioid prescription claims and their clinical indications: results from health administrative data in Quebec, Canada, over 14 years
Authors: Attisso Eugene , Guenette Line , Dionne Clermont E , Kröger Edeltraut , Dialahy Isaora , Tessier Sebastien , Jean Sonia
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Describe new opioid prescription claims, their clinical indications and annual trends among opioid naïve adults covered by the Quebec’s public drug insurance plan (QPDIP) for the fiscal years 2006/2007–2019/2020.

Design and setting

A retrospective observational study was conducted using data collected between 2006/2007 and 2019/2020 within the Quebec Integrated Chronic Disease Surveillance System, a linkage administrative data.

Participants

A cohort of opioid naïve adults and new opioid users was created for each study year (median number=2 263 380 and 168 183, respectively, over study period).

Intervention

No.

Main outcome measure and analyses

A new opioid prescription was defined as the first opioid prescription claimed by an opioid naïve adult during a given fiscal year. The annual incidence proportion for each year was then calculated and standardised for age. A hierarchical algorithm was built to identify the most likely clinical indication for this prescription. Descriptive and trend analyses were performed.

Results

There was a 1.7% decrease of age-standardised annual incidence proportion during the study period, from 7.5% in 2006/2007 to 5.8% in 2019/2020. The decrease was highest after 2016/2017, reaching 5.5% annual percentage change. Median daily dose and days’ supply decreased from 27 to 25 morphine milligram equivalent/day and from 5 to 4 days between 2006/2007 and 2019/2020, respectively. Between 2006/2007 and 2019/2020, these prescriptions’ most likely clinical indications increased for cancer pain from 34% to 48%, for surgical pain from 31% to 36% and for dental pain from 9% to 11%. Inversely, the musculoskeletal pain decreased from 13% to 2%. There was good consistency between the clinical indications identified by the algorithm and prescriber’s specialty or user’s characteristics.

Conclusions

New opioid prescription claims (incidence, dose and days’ supply) decreased slightly over the last 14 years among QPDIP enrollees, especially after 2016/2017. Non-surgical and non-cancer pain became less common as their clinical indication.
Predicting pressure injury risk in hospitalised patients using machine learning with electronic health records: a US multilevel cohort study
Authors: Padula William V , Armstrong David G , Pronovost Peter J , Saria Suchi
Published: April 2024

Objective

To predict the risk of hospital-acquired pressure injury using machine learning compared with standard care.

Design

We obtained electronic health records (EHRs) to structure a multilevel cohort of hospitalised patients at risk for pressure injury and then calibrate a machine learning model to predict future pressure injury risk. Optimisation methods combined with multilevel logistic regression were used to develop a predictive algorithm of patient-specific shifts in risk over time. Machine learning methods were tested, including random forests, to identify predictive features for the algorithm. We reported the results of the regression approach as well as the area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve for predictive models.

Setting

Hospitalised inpatients.

Participants

EHRs of 35 001 hospitalisations over 5 years across 2 academic hospitals.

Main outcome measure

Longitudinal shifts in pressure injury risk.

Results

The predictive algorithm with features generated by machine learning achieved significantly improved prediction of pressure injury risk (p<0.001) with an area under the ROC curve of 0.72; whereas standard care only achieved an area under the ROC curve of 0.52. At a specificity of 0.50, the predictive algorithm achieved a sensitivity of 0.75.

Conclusions

These data could help hospitals conserve resources within a critical period of patient vulnerability of hospital-acquired pressure injury which is not reimbursed by US Medicare; thus, conserving between 30 000 and 90 000 labour-hours per year in an average 500-bed hospital. Hospitals can use this predictive algorithm to initiate a quality improvement programme for pressure injury prevention and further customise the algorithm to patient-specific variation by facility.
Social media for palliative and end-of-life care research: a systematic review
Authors: Wang Yijun , Koffman Jonathan , Gao Wei , Zhou Yuxin , Chukwusa Emeka , Curcin Vasa
Published: April 2024

Background

Social media with real-time content and a wide-reaching user network opens up more possibilities for palliative and end-of-life care (PEoLC) researchers who have begun to embrace it as a complementary research tool. This review aims to identify the uses of social media in PEoLC studies and to examine the ethical considerations and data collection approaches raised by this research approach.

Methods

Nine online databases were searched for PEoLC research using social media published before December 2022. Thematic analysis and narrative synthesis approach were used to categorise social media applications.

Results

21 studies were included. 16 studies used social media to conduct secondary analysis and five studies used social media as a platform for information sharing. Ethical considerations relevant to social media studies varied while 15 studies discussed ethical considerations, only 6 studies obtained ethical approval and 5 studies confirmed participant consent. Among studies that used social media data, most of them manually collected social media data, and other studies relied on Twitter application programming interface or third-party analytical tools. A total of 1 520 329 posts, 325 videos and 33 articles related to PEoLC from 2008 to 2022 were collected and analysed.

Conclusions

Social media has emerged as a promising complementary research tool with demonstrated feasibility in various applications. However, we identified the absence of standardised ethical handling and data collection approaches which pose an ongoing challenge. We provided practical recommendations to bridge these pressing gaps for researchers wishing to use social media in future PEoLC-related studies.
Discontinuing semaglutide after weight loss: strategy for weight maintenance and a possible new side effect
Authors: Carris Nicholas W. , Wallace Shawn , DuCoin Christopher G. , Mhaskar Rahul , Stern Marilyn , Bunnell Brian
Published: April 2024

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) facilitate weight loss. Weight regain off therapy is concerning. We reported the case of a 35-year-old male prescribed oral semaglutide with 22.7 kg weight loss over 120 days. Herein, we describe the clinical course when discontinuing GLP-1 RA therapy, one approach to maintaining weight loss after discontinuation, and a possible new side effect. At day 120, we continued oral semaglutide 7 mg daily, down from 14 mg, for weight maintenance with subsequent weight regain. We re-increased semaglutide to 14 mg/day with weight re-loss within 1 month and weight maintance for a year. We then discontinued semaglutide; weight loss was maintained for 6 months. The patient reported lactose intolerance ∼13 months before starting semaglutide. During semaglutide therapy, the patient reported worsened lactose intolerance and new gluten intolerance. Food allergy/celiac testing were negative. Intolerances did not improve with semaglutide discontinuation. Six months after semaglutide discontinuation, the patient was diagnosed with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, possibly worsened by semaglutide. Factors potentially supporting weight maintenance were early drug treatment for new-onset obesity, non-geriatric age, strength training, and diet modification. The case highlights tailoring approaches to maintain weight loss without GLP-1 RAs. Trials are needed to optimize weight maintenance strategies.
Squeezing effect on D+∕D− with nonzero chemical potential
Authors: Yin Hong-Jie , Feng Jia-Hui , Zhang Yong
Published: April 2024

The medium mass modification may lead to a squeezing effect. In the baryonic medium, the mass of D meson was expected to reduce and the in-medium masses of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] may show a splitting effect, and the chemical potential of D meson may be not zero. We study the squeezing effect on the yield ratio [Formula: see text] with nonzero chemical potential. Due to the in-medium mass splitting, the squeezing effect on the momentum distributions of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are different. Without the squeezing effect, the yield ratio [Formula: see text] remains constant as the transverse momentum increases. The yield ratio [Formula: see text] is affected by the squeezing effect, resulting in a dependence on transverse momentum. An increase in transverse momentum leads to a decrease in the yield ratio, especially when there is a high chemical potential. Additionally, the in-medium mass splitting amplifies this phenomenon. The yield ratio [Formula: see text] with nonzero chemical potential approaches 1 when there is a large average in-medium mass reduction, which becomes more evident at higher transverse momentum. The study of the squeezing effect on the yield ratio [Formula: see text] with nonzero chemical potential may be meaningful for the CBM and PANDA experiments of the FAIR project at GSI.