bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence in simulating global soil organic carbon by structurally different models after data assimilation
Authors: Tao Feng , Houlton Benjamin Z. , Huang Yuanyuan , Wang Ying‐Ping , Manzoni Stefano , Ahrens Bernhard , Mishra Umakant , Jiang Lifen , Huang Xiaomeng , Luo Yiqi
Published: May 2024

Current biogeochemical models produce carbon–climate feedback projections with large uncertainties, often attributed to their structural differences when simulating soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics worldwide. However, choices of model parameter values that quantify the strength and represent properties of different soil carbon cycle processes could also contribute to model simulation uncertainties. Here, we demonstrate the critical role of using common observational data in reducing model uncertainty in estimates of global SOC storage. Two structurally different models featuring distinctive carbon pools, decomposition kinetics, and carbon transfer pathways simulate opposite global SOC distributions with their customary parameter values yet converge to similar results after being informed by the same global SOC database using a data assimilation approach. The converged spatial SOC simulations result from similar simulations in key model components such as carbon transfer efficiency, baseline decomposition rate, and environmental effects on carbon fluxes by these two models after data assimilation. Moreover, data assimilation results suggest equally effective simulations of SOC using models following either first‐order or Michaelis–Menten kinetics at the global scale. Nevertheless, a wider range of data with high‐quality control and assurance are needed to further constrain SOC dynamics simulations and reduce unconstrained parameters. New sets of data, such as microbial genomics‐function relationships, may also suggest novel structures to account for in future model development. Overall, our results highlight the importance of observational data in informing model development and constraining model predictions.
Understanding supported self‐management for people living with a lower‐grade glioma: Implementation considerations through the lens of normalisation process theory
Authors: Rimmer Ben , Finch Tracy , Balla Michelle , Dutton Lizzie , Williams Sophie , Lewis Joanne , Gallagher Pamela , Burns Richéal , Araújo‐Soares Vera , Menger Fiona , Sharp Linda ,   Ways Ahead study team
Published: May 2024

Background

Supported self‐management can improve clinical and psychosocial outcomes in people with cancer; the considerations required to implement self‐management support (SMS) for people living with a lower‐grade glioma (LGG)—who often have complex support needs—are not known. We aimed to identify and understand these implementation considerations through the lens of normalisation process theory (NPT), from the perspectives of healthcare professionals (HCP) and people with LGG.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews with HCPs who support adults with brain tumours (n = 25; 12 different healthcare professions), and people with LGG who had completed primary treatment (n = 28; male n = 16, mean age 54.6 years, mean time since diagnosis 8.7 years), from across the United Kingdom. Interviews were transcribed and inductive open coding conducted, before deductively mapping to constructs of NPT. We first mapped HCP data, then integrated data from people with LGG to explore alignment in experiences and perspectives.

Results

We generated supporting evidence for all four NPT constructs and related subconstructs, namely: ‘Coherence’, ‘Cognitive participation’, ‘Collective action’ and ‘Reflexive monitoring’. Data from HCPs and people with LGG clearly demonstrated that effective SMS constitutes a collective activity. Key implementation considerations included: ensuring awareness of, and access to, support; building strong HCP‐support recipient relationships; and careful inclusion of close family and friends. We identified pertinent challenges, such as identifying support needs (influenced by the extent to which those with LGG engage in help‐seeking), resistance to support (e.g., technology literacy), training for HCPs and HCP cooperation.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the collective nature of, and provides insight into the individual roles within, supported self‐management. We outline considerations to operationalise, sustain and appraise the implementation of SMS for people with LGG.

Patient or Public Contribution

People with brain tumours, and informal caregivers, were involved in the development of information materials and topic guides to ensure accessibility and pertinence. They also had opportunities to comment on interview findings.
The impact of gamification on training, work engagement, and job satisfaction in banking
Authors: Magioli Sereno Marcelo , Ang Huat Bin (Andy)
Published: May 2024

This study contributes to the comparative analysis of outcomes between gamified and traditional training systems in the banking sector. On‐the‐job training is a vital aspect of the process of enhancing work performance within organizations. Thus, by employing a case‐based asymmetric configural approach rooted in nonlinear and contrarian case analysis, this research investigates the impact of gamified training on human resource development. A global empirical survey of 388 banking employees revealed that a combination of complexity theory and configural analysis provides valuable insights into the outcomes of both gamified and conventional training methods. In the face of increasing competition, banks are compelled to enhance their professionalism by boosting employee motivation. It becomes apparent that there is no straightforward, necessary and sufficient path available to guarantee high levels of engagement and job satisfaction. Notably, some of these results challenge the expectations of self‐determination theory (SDT), which posits the satisfaction of three basic psychological needs during training. These findings contribute to an enriched understanding of the nuanced application of complexity theory in the context of SDT research, particularly regarding the training and development of gamified systems for banking organizations and other service‐oriented sectors that can benefit from such innovative training approaches.
Comparisons between referred and non‐referred patients to a university paediatric dental clinic
Authors: Leary Kecia S. , Hollinger Noah C. , Qian Fang , Kanellis Michael J. , Weber‐Gasparoni Karin
Published: May 2024

Background

Referrals of paediatric patients to a university clinic have been increasing over the last several years.

Aim

To evaluate characteristics of referred and non‐referred patients at the University of Iowa's Pediatric Dental Clinic (UIPDC).

Design

A retrospective chart review included dental records of 340 referred and 383 non‐referred patients from July 1, 2015, to May 31, 2016 (n = 723). Age, distance to the clinic, size of the patient's community, insurance, number of teeth with decay, treatment needs, educational level of the provider, and presence of patient special health care needs were obtained. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariable logistic regression were performed to analyze the outcomes (alpha = .05).

Results

Referred patients were more likely to live >60 miles away, live in a community of >75 000 people, have special health care needs, have caries/greater number of teeth with decay, need endodontic treatment, and were less likely to remain patients at the clinic (p < .0001). Referred patients were also more likely to need extractions (p = .0104), but less likely to need space maintenance/comprehensive orthodontic treatment (p = .0002).

Conclusion

There was a difference in the complexity of patient treatment needs between referred and non‐referred patients.
Achieving hardness‐strength‐toughness synergy in (Ti, W, Mo, Cr)(C, N)‐based cermets
Authors: Wang Lu , Cao Zhinan , Jin Na , Liu Ying
Published: May 2024

Ti(C, N)‐based cermets have been considered to be the most potential candidates for WC‐Co cemented carbides as tool material due to their various advantages. However, the trade‐off between hardness/strength and toughness limits their further application. Herein, we present new (Ti, W, Mo, Cr)(C, N)‐based cermets showing superior mechanical properties with hardness of 1525 MPa, transverse rupture strength of 2428 MPa, and fracture toughness of 11.44 MPa·m1/2 by compositional and interfacial modification. The strengthening and toughening mechanisms were revealed by experimental observation and theory calculation. It could be clarified that the high elastic modulus caused by a polar covalent bond in the hard phase and solid solution strengthening of the binder phase attributed to the hardness. The strong interface bonding between the core/rim, inner/outer rim, and rim/binder phases stemming from the composition optimization contributed to super crack resistance. Intergranular fracture in submicron‐scaled hard phases led to the crack deflection, transgranular fracture in the micron‐scaled hard phases consumed more energy due to their high intrinsic hardness and excellent interface coordination. The synergy of multi‐scaled hard particles brought about excellent comprehensive mechanical properties.
A longitudinal study of breastfeeding relationships at home during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A grounded theory method
Authors: Wood Natsuko K. , Helfrich‐Miller Kathleen R. , Dyer Ann M.
Published: May 2024

Aims

To describe the process of breastfeeding relationships among stay‐at‐home mother and infant dyads at 1, 3, 5 and 6 months.

Design

A longitudinal qualitative online survey design was used.

Methods

Data were obtained at 1, 3, 5 and 6 months from 26 breastfeeding mothers who stayed home with their infants and directly breastfed at least once a day for the first 6 months between June 2022 and August 2023. Mothers' written responses to 3 open‐ended questions were analysed to assess breastfeeding experiences at home, thoughts/comments while directly breastfeeding and breastfeeding concerns/problems and strategies they used. Based on grounded theory, inductive content analysis was used to analyse the data. Trustworthiness of results was established by coding to consensus, formal peer debriefing and maintaining an audit trail.

Results

‘Breastfeeding Relationships at Home,’ the core construct, was identified and organized the process of breastfeeding relationships into 5 domains: (1) mothers' emotional well‐being while breastfeeding, (2) infant‐led feeding, (3) alternatives to breastfeeding, (4) evaluation of breastfeeding and (5) changes in breastfeeding as infants grow older.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding is not simply about feeding breast milk but also involves nurturing and developing a relationship between mother and infant. Across the domains, mutual responsiveness, a central element of the breastfeeding relationship was clear. Mothers who were committed to breastfeeding with embedded infant suckling reached emotional well‐being in return for their engagement which has potential to reduce maternal stress and prevent postpartum depression.

Impact

Findings from the current study add to nurses' knowledge about the relationship building process between stay‐at‐home mothers and their infants in the first 6 months of breastfeeding during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Nurses must remain sensitive to aid the development of breastfeeding relationships in the home environment to maximize mutual responsiveness.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patients or public involved.
Automated prediction of isthmus areas in scar‐related atrial tachycardias using artificial intelligence
Authors: Saluja Deepak , Huang Ziyi , Majumder Jonah , Zeldin Lawrence , Yarmohammadi Hirad , Biviano Angelo , Wan Elaine Y. , Ciaccio Edward J. , Hendon Christine P. , Garan Hasan
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Ablation of scar‐related reentrant atrial tachycardia (SRRAT) involves identification and ablation of a critical isthmus. A graph convolutional network (GCN) is a machine learning structure that is well‐suited to analyze the irregularly‐structured data obtained in mapping procedures and may be used to identify potential isthmuses.

Methods

Electroanatomic maps from 29 SRRATs were collected, and custom electrogram features assessing key tissue and wavefront properties were calculated for each point. Isthmuses were labeled off‐line. Training data was used to determine the optimal GCN parameters and train the final model. Putative isthmus points were predicted in the training and test populations and grouped into proposed isthmus areas based on density and distance thresholds. The primary outcome was the distance between the centroids of the true and closest proposed isthmus areas.

Results

A total of 193 821 points were collected. Thirty isthmuses were detected in 29 tachycardias among 25 patients (median age 65.0, 5 women). The median (IQR) distance between true and the closest proposed isthmus area centroids was 8.2 (3.5, 14.4) mm in the training and 7.3 (2.8, 16.1) mm in the test group. The mean overlap in areas, measured by the Dice coefficient, was 11.5 ± 3.2% in the training group and 13.9 ± 4.6% in the test group.

Conclusion

A GCN can be trained to identify isthmus areas in SRRATs and may help identify critical ablation targets.
Sun exposure and protection habits: Self‐reported attitudes, knowledge and behaviours
Authors: Lim Henry W. , Saint Aroman Marketa , Skayem Charbel , Halioua Bruno , Perez Cullell Nuria , Ben Hayoun Yaron , Baissac Catherine , Bergqvist Christina , Taieb Charles , Richard Marie‐Aleth , Ezzedine Khaled
Published: May 2024

Background

As exposure to UV radiation is the primary modifiable environmental risk factor associated with skin cancer, it remains the principal focus of most prevention strategies. Numerous sun protection campaigns have been implemented worldwide; however, their impact on the actual incidence and mortality rates of skin cancer seems to be limited. To create successful skin cancer prevention campaigns, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of individuals' attitudes and behaviours regarding sun protection. The aim of the current study was to determine and report on the prevalence of self‐reported attitudes, knowledge and behaviours regarding two of the major sun protection recommendations—avoidance of sun exposure and use of sunscreens—in an international representative sample across five continents.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in 20 countries using a web‐based online survey.

Findings

A total of 50,552 individuals, comprising 25,388 men (50.22%) and 25,164 women (49.78%), participated in the survey. Among them, 83.2% reported having been voluntarily exposed to the sun (for sun‐basking reasons) at least once in the last 12 months, and 47.96% acknowledged being exposed to the sun between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. The primary reason for non‐adherence was that these hours were the most convenient times (32.28%). Only 24.05% reported applying sunscreen every 2 h when outdoors. Forgetfulness was the primary reason as provided by 27.79% of participants. Males and older age groups were less likely to adopt sun‐protective behaviours around the world. Forgetfulness and the challenges posed by time constraints seem to be the biggest barriers to proper adherence.

Interpretation

These findings should prompt the collaboration with health authorities and the manufacturers to enhance adherence by setting reasonable sunscreen prices and creating formulations that make their application less burdensome.
EADV Task Force Pruritus White Paper on chronic pruritus and chronic prurigo: Current challenges and future solutions
Authors: Ständer S. , Pereira M. P. , Zeidler C. , Legat F. J. , Misery L. , Lönndahl L. , Bewley A. P. , Brenaut E. , Bobko S. , Elberling J. , Evers A. W. M. , Garcovich S. , Gieler U. , Gonçalo M. , Kupfer J. , Lambert J. , Lvov A. , Metz M. , Michenko A. , Papadavid E. , Reich A. , Savk E. , Schneider G. , Schut C. , Serra‐Baldrich E. , Ständer H. F. , Szepietowski J. C. , Wallengren J. , Weisshaar E. , Augustin M.
Published: May 2024

Chronic pruritus (CP) is frequent in general medicine and the most common complaint in general dermatology. The prevalence of CP is expected to rise in the future due to the ageing population. The clinical presentation, underlying aetiology and treatment strategy of CP are heterogeneous. Also, individual treatment aims and physical, psychic and economic burdens of patients might vary. Chronic prurigo (CPG) is the most severe disease in the chronic pruritus spectrum, being associated with long‐standing scratch‐induced skin lesions and a therapy refractory itch‐scratch‐cycle. It is thus important to raise disease awareness for CP and CPG in the general public and among decision‐makers in the health system. Further, there is a need to support a rational clinical framework to optimize both diagnostics and therapeutics. Currently, there is still a shortcoming regarding approved therapies and understanding CP/CPG as severe medical conditions. Therefore, the EADV Task Force Pruritus decided to publish this white paper based on several consensus meetings. The group consented on the following goals: (a) ensure that CP is recognized as a serious condition, (b) increase public awareness and understanding of CP and CPG as chronic and burdensome diseases that can greatly affect a person's quality of life, (c) clarify that in most cases CP and CPG are non‐communicable and not caused by a psychiatric disease, (d) improve the support and treatment given to patients with CP to help them manage their disease and (e) publicize existing therapies including current guidelines. We aim to point to necessary improvements in access and quality of care directed to decision‐makers in health policy, among payers and administrations as well as in practical care.
A face‐to‐face comparison of the BBB cell models hCMEC/D3 and hBMEC for their applicability to adenoviral expression of transporters
Authors: Taggi Valerio , Schäfer Anima M. , Dolce Asaél , Meyer zu Schwabedissen Henriette E.
Published: May 2024

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is a structure mainly formed by brain capillary endothelial cells (BCEC) whose role is to regulate the exchange of compounds between the blood and the brain. In this process efflux and uptake transporters play a key role. Aim of this study was to compare the two previously established cell lines hCMEC/D3 and hBMEC as BBB cell models for the application of an adenoviral system to transiently express OATP2B1 and Pgp. Comparison of hCMEC/D3 and hBMEC mRNA and protein levels of BBB markers showed a unique expression pattern for each cell line. While showing similar expression of the efflux transporter BCRP, transferrin receptor (TFRC) and of the tight junctions proteins Occludin and ZO‐1, hCMEC/D3 displayed higher levels of the endothelial marker PECAM1, VE‐cadherin, Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) and of the efflux transporter Pgp. Moreover, measuring integrity of the monolayer by determining the Trans‐Endothelial Electrical Resistance (TEER), electrical capacitance (CCl), and inulin apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) revealed higher TEER and lower CCl for hBMEC but comparable Papp in the two cell lines. Following adenoviral infection, enhanced OATP2B1 and Pgp expression and functionality could be observed only in hBMEC. Importantly, the adenoviral expression system did not affect expression of BBB markers and permeability in both cell lines. Taken together, our results provide first evidence that hBMEC is an applicable human BBB cell model in which adenoviral infection can be used to transiently express and investigate transporters of interest.

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Beyond order‐based nursing workload: A retrospective cohort study in intensive care units
Authors: Chen Yi , Chan Carri W. , Dong Jing , Jackson Emily M. , Yip Natalie H. , Rossetti Sarah C.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

In order to be positioned to address the increasing strain of burnout and worsening nurse shortage, a better understanding of factors that contribute to nursing workload is required. This study aims to examine the difference between order‐based and clinically perceived nursing workloads and to quantify factors that contribute to a higher clinically perceived workload.

Design

A retrospective cohort study was used on an observational dataset.

Methods

We combined patient flow, nurse staffing and assignment, and workload intensity data and used multivariate linear regression to analyze how various shift, patient, and nurse‐level factors, beyond order‐based workload, affect nurses' clinically perceived workload.

Results

Among 53% of our samples, the clinically perceived workload is higher than the order‐based workload. Factors associated with a higher clinically perceived workload include weekend or night shifts, shifts with a higher census, patients within the first 24 h of admission, and male patients.

Conclusions

The order‐based workload measures tended to underestimate nurses' clinically perceived workload. We identified and quantified factors that contribute to a higher clinically perceived workload, discussed the potential mechanisms as to how these factors affect the clinically perceived workload, and proposed targeted interventions to better manage nursing workload.

Clinical Relevance

By identifying factors associated with a high clinically perceived workload, the nurse manager can provide appropriate interventions to lighten nursing workload, which may further reduce the risk of nurse burnout and shortage.
Documentation of social determinants of health across individuals from different racial and ethnic groups in home healthcare
Authors: Hobensack Mollie , Scharp Danielle , Song Jiyoun , Topaz Maxim
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Home healthcare (HHC) enables patients to receive healthcare services within their homes to manage chronic conditions and recover from illnesses. Recent research has identified disparities in HHC based on race or ethnicity. Social determinants of health (SDOH) describe the external factors influencing a patient's health, such as access to care and social support. Individuals from racially or ethnically minoritized communities are known to be disproportionately affected by SDOH. Existing evidence suggests that SDOH are documented in clinical notes. However, no prior study has investigated the documentation of SDOH across individuals from different racial or ethnic backgrounds in the HHC setting. This study aimed to (1) describe frequencies of SDOH documented in clinical notes by race or ethnicity and (2) determine associations between race or ethnicity and SDOH documentation.

Design

Retrospective data analysis.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional secondary data analysis of 86,866 HHC episodes representing 65,693 unique patients from one large HHC agency in New York collected between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2017. We reported the frequency of six SDOH (physical environment, social environment, housing and economic circumstances, food insecurity, access to care, and education and literacy) documented in clinical notes across individuals reported as Asian/Pacific Islander, Black, Hispanic, multi‐racial, Native American, or White. We analyzed differences in SDOH documentation by race or ethnicity using logistic regression models.

Results

Compared to patients reported as White, patients across other racial or ethnic groups had higher frequencies of SDOH documented in their clinical notes. Our results suggest that race or ethnicity is associated with SDOH documentation in HHC.

Conclusion

As the study of SDOH in HHC continues to evolve, our results provide a foundation to evaluate social information in the HHC setting and understand how it influences the quality of care provided.

Clinical Relevance

The results of this exploratory study can help clinicians understand the differences in SDOH across individuals from different racial and ethnic groups and serve as a foundation for future research aimed at fostering more inclusive HHC documentation practices.
A 3D geometric morphometric analysis of the bovid distal humerus, with special reference to Rusingoryx atopocranion (Pleistocene, Eastern Africa)
Authors: Anderson Sophia C. , Kovarovic Kris , Barr W. Andrew
Published: May 2024

The family Bovidae [Mammalia: Artiodactyla] is speciose and has extant representatives on every continent, forming key components of mammal communities. For these reasons, bovids are ideal candidates for studies of ecomorphology. In particular, the morphology of the bovid humerus has been identified as highly related to functional variables such as body mass and habitat. This study investigates the functional morphology of the bovid distal humerus in isolation due to its increased likelihood of preservation in the fossil record, and the resulting opportunity for a better understanding of the ecomorphology of extinct bovids. A landmark scheme of 30 landmarks was used to capture the 3D distal humerus morphology in 111 extant bovid specimens. We find that the distal humerus has identifiable morphologies associated with body mass, habitat preference and tribe affiliation and that some characteristics are shared between high body mass bovids and those living on hard, flat terrain which is likely due to the high stress on the bone in both cases. We directly apply our findings regarding extant bovids to the extinct alcelaphine bovid, Rusingoryx atopocranion from the mid to late Pleistocene (>33–45 ka) Lake Victoria region of Kenya. This species is known for some peculiar morphologies including a domed cranium with hollow nasal crests, and having small hooves for a bovid of its size. Another interesting aspect of Rusingoryx's skeletal morphology which has not been addressed is an unusual protrusion on the lateral epicondyle of the distal humerus. Despite considerable individual variation in the Rusingoryx specimens, we find evidence to support its historical assignment to the tribe Alcelaphini, and that it likely preferred open grassland habitats, which is consistent with independent reconstructions of the palaeoenvironment. We also provide the most accurate body mass estimate for Rusingoryx to date, based on distal humerus centroid size. Overall, we are able to conclude that the distal humerus in extant bovids is highly informative regarding body mass, habitat preference and tribe, and that this can be applied directly to a fossil taxon with promising results.
Leaders' individualized consideration, team commitment and patient loyalty: The role of social and task‐related contexts
Authors: Tang Wei‐Gang , Stordeur Sabine , Vandenberghe Christian , D'hoore William
Published: May 2024

Drawing from transformational leadership (TFL) theory and research on contextual leadership, we examined a conditional process model of leadership in nursing teams to predict patient loyalty. Using TFL's individualized consideration dimension as a salient facet of the construct in care services, we first posited that nurses' team affective commitment would partially mediate the impact of nurse leadership. We further conceptualized nurse–physician collaboration, organizational formalization and task feedback as discrete contexts that may curb the influence of head nurses' individualized consideration. In a three‐wave, multisource and multilevel study, we surveyed 654 nurses and 1770 patients from 91 hospital units. We found that team‐level head nurses' individualized consideration positively and partially related to patient loyalty through nurses' team commitment and that higher levels of nurse–physician collaboration, organizational formalization and task feedback were associated with reduced influence of individualized consideration on team commitment and patient loyalty. We discuss the implications of these findings for advancing theory and research on TFL and contextual factors of leadership.
A mandibular advancement device attenuates the abnormal morphology and function of mitochondria from the genioglossus in obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome rabbits
Authors: Liu Chunyan , Zhang Shilong , Zhu Dechao , Fan Dengying , Zhu Yahui , Kang Wenjing , Lu Haiyan , Wang Jie
Published: May 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is a serious and potentially life‐threatening disease. Mandibular advancement device (MAD) has the characteristics of non‐invasive, comfortable, portable and low‐cost, making it the preferred treatment for mild‐to‐moderate OSAHS. Our previous studies found that abnormal contractility and fibre type distribution of the genioglossus could be caused by OSAHS. However, whether the mitochondria participate in these tissue changes is unclear. The effect of MAD treatment on the mitochondria of the genioglossus in OSAHS is also uncertain.

Objective

To examine the morphology and function of mitochondria from the genioglossus in a rabbit model of obstructive sleep apnea–hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), as well as these factors after insertion of a mandibular advancement device (MAD).

Methods

Thirty male New Zealand white rabbits were randomised into three groups: control, OSAHS and MAD, with 10 rabbits in each group. Animals in Group OSAHS and Group MAD were induced to develop OSAHS by injection of gel into the submucosal muscular layer of the soft palate. The rabbits in Group MAD were fitted with a MAD. The animals in the control group were not treated. Further, polysomnography (PSG) and cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan were used to measure MAD effectiveness. CBCT of the upper airway and PSG suggested that MAD was effective. Rabbits in the three groups were induced to sleep for 4–6 h per day for eight consecutive weeks. The genioglossus was harvested and detected by optical microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The mitochondrial membrane potential was determined by laser confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. Mitochondrial complex I and IV activities were detected by mitochondrial complex assay kits.

Results

OSAHS‐like symptoms were induced successfully in Group OSAHS and rescued by MAD treatment. The relative values of the mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondrial complex I activity and complex IV activity were significantly lower in Group OSAHS than in the control group; however, there was no significant difference between Group MAD and the control group. The OSAHS‐induced injury and the dysfunctional mitochondria of the genioglossus muscle were reduced by MAD treatment.

Conclusion

Damaged mitochondrial structure and function were induced by OSAHS and could be attenuated by MAD treatment.
Settling selection of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii for samarium uptake
Authors: Martinez‐Alesón García Paloma , García‐Balboa Camino , López‐Rodas Victoria , Costas Eduardo , Baselga‐Cervera Beatriz
Published: May 2024

Samarium (Sm) is a rare‐earth element recently included in the list of critical elements due to its vital role in emerging new technologies. With an increasing demand for Sm, microbial bioremediation may provide a cost‐effective and a more ecologically responsible alternative to remove and recover Sm. We capitalized on a previously selected Chlamydomonas reinhardtii strain tolerant to Sm (1.33 × 10−4 M) and acidic pH and carried out settling selection to increase the Sm uptake performance. We observed a rapid response to selection in terms of cellular phenotype. Cellular size decreased and circularity increased in a stepwise manner with every cycle of selection. After four cycles of selection, the derived CSm4 strain was significantly smaller and was capable of sequestrating 41% more Sm per cell (1.7 × 10−05 ± 1.7 × 10−06 ng) and twice as much Sm in terms of wet biomass (4.0 ± 0.4 mg Sm · g−1) compared to the ancestral candidate strain. The majority (~70%) of the Sm was bioaccumulated intracellularly, near acidocalcisomes or autophagic vacuoles as per TEM‐EDX microanalyses. However, Sm analyses suggest a stronger response toward bioabsorption resulting from settling selection. Despite working with Sm and pH‐tolerant strains, we observed an effect on fitness and photosynthesis inhibition when the strains were grown with Sm. Our results clearly show that phenotypic selection, such as settling selection, can significantly enhance Sm uptake. Laboratory selection of microalgae for rare‐earth metal bioaccumulation and sorption can be a promising biotechnological approach.
Clinical and computed tomography findings in cats with nasopharyngeal stenosis
Authors: Mestrinho L. , Fonseca R.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Concurrent anomalies are often found in nasopharyngeal stenosis and choanal atresia; some seem to be of primary nature, whereas others may be coincidental. This study aimed to report the computed tomography features and related comorbidities of these diseases.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional retrospective study was performed using case and control groups defined according to the presence of signs of upper airway disease and the presence/absence of nasopharyngeal stenosis, respectively. The inclusion criteria were full‐head tomography scans and access to clinical records. The exclusion criteria were brachycephalic breed, head trauma and neoplasm. Clinical and computed tomographic findings and relevant comorbidities were recorded.

Results

Forty‐three cats were included, 23 cases and 20 controls. The case group was significantly younger, had more paranasal sinus anomalies and never had turbinate lysis, also, had significantly more soft palate anomalies, which was significantly shorter. Nasopharyngeal stenosis varied from membrane appearance to partial or complete adhesion of the soft palate to the nasopharynx, was mainly located in the caudal region of the nasopharynx and was imperforated in approximately half of the cases. Imperforated membranes were significantly thicker in the sagittal plane and were significantly associated with nasal obstruction and soft tissue attenuation of the tympanic bulla. Hiatal hernia and ventricular asymmetry were only encountered in three and two cases, respectively, with nasopharyngeal stenosis.

Clinical Significance

Computed tomography in cats with nasopharyngeal stenosis can identify concurrent anomalies, can help to differentiate a possible choanal atresia and evaluate the magnitude of its significance.
Manganese‐dependent transcription regulation by MntR and PerR in Thermus thermophilusHB8
Authors: Barrows John K. , Stubbs Kamya A. , Padilla‐Montoya Irina F. , Leeper Thomas C. , Van Dyke Michael W.
Published: May 2024

Bacteria contain conserved mechanisms to control the intracellular levels of metal ions. Metalloregulatory transcription factors bind metal cations and play a central role in regulating gene expression of metal transporters. Often, these transcription factors regulate transcription by binding to a specific DNA sequence in the promoter region of target genes. Understanding the preferred DNA‐binding sequence for transcriptional regulators can help uncover novel gene targets and provide insight into the biological role of the transcription factor in the host organism. Here, we identify consensus DNA‐binding sequences and subsequent transcription regulatory networks for two metalloregulators from the ferric uptake regulator (FUR) and diphtheria toxin repressor (DtxR) superfamilies in Thermus thermophilus HB8. By homology search, we classify the DtxR homolog as a manganese‐specific, MntR (TtMntR), and the FUR homolog as a peroxide‐sensing, PerR (TtPerR). Both transcription factors repress separate ZIP transporter genes in vivo, and TtPerR acts as a bifunctional transcription regulator by activating the expression of ferric and hemin transport systems. We show TtPerR and TtMntR bind DNA in the presence of manganese in vitro and in vivo; however, TtPerR is unable to bind DNA in the presence of iron, likely due to iron‐mediated histidine oxidation. Unlike canonical PerR homologs, TtPerR does not appear to contribute to peroxide detoxification. Instead, the TtPerR regulon and DNA binding sequence are more reminiscent of Fur or Mur homologs. Collectively, these results highlight the similarities and differences between two metalloregulatory superfamilies and underscore the interplay of manganese and iron in transcription factor regulation.
Pediatric anesthesia in China
Authors: Zhang Liu , Xie Deying , Li Bo , Lei Dongxu , Zhu Bo , Hu Jing , Zheng Jijian , Zhang Jianmin , Xu Ying , Zuo Yunxia , Song Xingrong
Published: May 2024

In China, healthcare has lagged relative to its economic boom during the past 40 years. While the top tier hospitals offer pediatric perioperative care like high‐income countries, lower‐tier hospitals deliver lesser services of variable quality and safety related to equipment, supplies, clinician education, and availability. The national residency training program and the pediatric anesthesia fellowship program was established in 2013 and 2018 respectively. Increasing clinician workload from patient demand and a lack of consistency in quality and capability between rural and urban areas remain challenging.
Association between the transition to metabolically unhealthy obesity and lifestyle behavior: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Lee HyunHae , Shin Hyerine , Chung Yoongi , Kim Ji‐Su
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To identify the characteristics of individuals transitioning from metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) to unhealthy obesity and the factors influencing the change.

Design

This is a nationwide cohort study using data from the National Health Insurance Service in South Korea.

Sample

Individuals with obesity but metabolically healthy in 2009 and 2010 and those still obese 4 years later were selected.

Measurements

Sociodemographic, physical, metabolic, and health behavior variables were collected, and logistic regression was used to find an association with the transition.

Results

We analyzed 1,564,467 individuals, observing significant differences in all variables and the transition from MHO to unhealthy obesity. Among males, the transition was associated with smoking and drinking positively and physical activity negatively. Among females, drinking demonstrated a negative correlation. Regardless of age, regular exercise was negatively associated with the transition for all individuals. Except for older adults, all age groups showed a positive correlation with smoking and drinking.

Conclusions

Considering the significant factors in the transition, it is essential to develop and implement interventions varied by gender and age to delay and prevent the change in metabolic status. The necessity of developing interventions enables individuals to engage in regular exercise, regardless of age and gender.
Status threat: The core of reactionary politics
Authors: Parker Christopher Sebastian , Lavine Howard
Published: May 2024

In recent years, reactionary movements have overtaken the politics of western democracies and developing countries alike. Using the United States is a case in point, we offer a theory of what motivates reactionary movements. While controlling for conventional individual‐level accounts of reactionary psychological dispositions, we offer a fresh explanation: status threat. We argue that status threat, a reaction to rapid sociocultural change on the part of dominant groups, pushes some members of these groups into joining and supporting reactionary movements and parties, respectively. We first outline the social psychology of the group (White, Christian, patriarchal, native born, heteronormative) that animates a movement (MAGA) that, in turn, has taken over a party (the GOP). We then test a wide range of hypotheses using two original data sets, finding robust evidence to support our claim: status threat is a major source of the increasing fractionalization of American society and politics, one that threatens American democracy.
Accounting for the association between socioeconomic status and youth political participation: A twin family study
Authors: Zapko‐Willmes Alexandra , Theocharis Yannis
Published: May 2024

Political participation (PP) has been found to be associated with socioeconomic status (SES) indicators, most strongly with educational attainment. At the same time, previous research has been inconclusive regarding potentially biasing effects of personality and cognitive characteristics on this association. In the present study, we investigated the association between different forms of youth PP and attained SES, taking youth's and parents' individual characteristics into account. We used data from 983 German twin families with same‐sex twin pairs of emerging adults (aged 21–25) that provided information on electoral, nonelectoral individual and collective political participation as well as on youth's and their parents relevant personality and cognitive characteristics. After adjusting for youth's and parents' individual characteristics, regression analyses showed educational attainment and household income to be solely significantly associated with emerging adults' electoral political participation. Genetically informative analyses revealed confoundedness due to shared environmental factors for electoral PP and due to genetic factors for individual and collective PP. Depending on the form of PP, the covariance between attained SES indicators and youth's PP mostly or fully overlapped with variance in political interest, general cognitive ability, and/or openness to experience. Findings are discussed against the backdrop of genotype‐environment interplay.
Does reversal of the educational gender gap affect Men's happiness: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Steven Zhongwu , Lu Fengzhi
Published: May 2024

In the context of the reversal of the educational gender gap, this article employs a nationally representative survey to examine the relationship between a wife's educational advantages (i.e., wife attains more education than her husband) and her husband's happiness. By controlling for individual, family, and community factors, we demonstrate that a husband's happiness is positively associated with his wife's educational advantages. Instrumental variable regressions and series of robustness checks corroborate the conclusion. However, certain heterogeneities are observed, with a particularly notable positive association among men with higher education levels, younger age, and those residing in the eastern region, likely influenced by their egalitarian gender ideologies. The study suggests that men are increasingly accepting of marriages in which the wife is more educated than her husband.
Social media use and its impact on adults' mental health and well‐being: A scoping review
Authors: Koh Ghee Kian , Ow Yong Jenna Qing Yun , Lee Ainsley Ryan Yan Bin , Ong Bernard Soon Yang , Yau Chun En , Ho Cyrus Su Hui , Goh Yong Shian
Published: May 2024

Background

Social media use has grown in importance and prevalence, with its estimated number of users at 4.9 billion worldwide. Social media use research has revealed positive and negative impacts on users' mental health and well‐being. However, such impacts among adults have not been examined in any reviews.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted based on the framework by Arksey and O'Malley and reported based on the PRISMA‐ScR guidelines. Eight databases were searched from 2005 to December 2021. Articles were included after being reviewed by three independent teams, with discrepancies resolved through consensus with the senior author. Publication‐related information (i.e., authors, year of publication, aims, study population, methodology, interventions, comparisons, outcome measures and key findings) were extracted from each study. Thematic analysis was conducted to answer the research questions.

Results

Among the 114 eligible articles, young adults (69.6%) represented the main age group. Most studies (78.6%) focused on the negative impacts of social media use on mental health and well‐being, with nearly a third (32.1%) assessing such impacts on depression. Notably, this scoping review found that more than three‐quarters (78.6%) of the included studies revealed that excessive and passive social media use would increases depression, anxiety, mood and loneliness. Nevertheless, a third (33.0%) also reported positive impacts, where positive and purposeful use of social media contributes to improvements in mental health and well‐being, such as increased perceived social support and enjoyment.

Linking Evidence to Action

This review has provided an overview of the existing knowledge on how social media use affects adults and identified areas of research that merit investigation in future studies. More attention should be given to maximizing the positive impacts of social media use on mental health and well‐being among adults.
Twisted Whittaker category on affine flags and the category of representations of the mixed quantum group
Authors: Yang Ruotao
Published: May 2024

Let $G$ be a reductive group, and let $\check {G}$ be its Langlands dual group. Arkhipov and Bezrukavnikov proved that the Whittaker category on the affine flags ${\operatorname {Fl}}_G$ is equivalent to the category of $\check {G}$-equivariant quasi-coherent sheaves on the Springer resolution of the nilpotent cone. This paper proves this theorem in the quantum case. We show that the twisted Whittaker category on ${\operatorname {Fl}}_G$ and the category of representations of the mixed quantum group are equivalent. In particular, we prove that the quantum category $\mathsf {O}$ is equivalent to the twisted Whittaker category on ${\operatorname {Fl}}_G$ in the generic case. The strong version of our main theorem claims a motivic equivalence between the Whittaker category on ${\operatorname {Fl}}_G$ and a factorization module category, which holds in the de Rham setting, the Betti setting, and the $\ell$-adic setting.
Complete genome sequences of
Campylobacter jejuni
subsp.
jejuni
strain P4549 isolated from an asymptomatic rhesus monkey (
Macaca mulatta
)
Authors: Wang Sharon X. , Kim Sung Guk
Published: May 2024

Campylobacter jejuni
subsp.
jejuni
is a leading bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis.
C. jejuni
strain P4549 was isolated from an asymptomatic rhesus monkey,
Macaca mulatta
. We report the genome sequences have a circular chromosome of 1,729,940 bp and two plasmids of 50,482 bp and 7,259 bp, respectively.
Antiferromagnetic-to-Ferromagnetic Transition in the GdNiSi1 – xAlx Compound
Authors: Mukhachev R. D. , Lukoyanov A. V. , Kuchin A. G.
Published: May 2024

In this work, the electronic structure and magnetic properties of GdNiSi have been investigated within the framework of theoretical DFT + U method. The antiferromagnetic ordering of the Gd moments was obtained as the ground state, whereas Ni and Si have negligible magnetic moments. An antiferromagnetic-to-ferromagnetic transition was found when GdNiSi is doped with Al in our theoretical calculations. The antiferromagnetic-to-ferromagnetic transition takes place in the Gd sublattice, the magnetic moments at the Gd ions remain the same but the type of magnetic ordering changes. It was found that even at concentrations as low as $$x = 0.1$$, the ferromagnetic ordering in the Gd sublattice is more favorable in total energy as the ground state which can be ascribed to the shortening of Gd–Gd distances and the oscillating behavior of the Ruderman–Kittel–Kasuya–Yosida interaction in the Al-doped compositions. The electronic structure demonstrates significant changes in the vicinity of the localized Gd 4f states that confirms the presence of the antiferromagnetic-to-ferromagnetic transition using our theoretical results for Al $$x \geqslant 0.1$$ in good agreement with the previous experimental magnetic results.
Frequency Conversion of Femtosecond Ti:Sapphire Laser Pulse to the Long-Wave Mid-IR Range with BaGa2GeSe6 Crystal
Authors: Kinyaevskiy I. O. , Koribut A. V. , Grudtsyn Ya. V. , Ionin M. V.
Published: May 2024

Generation of ultrashort mid-IR pulses spanning from 8.5 to 10.5 μm with high energy (up to 4.5 μJ) was experimentally demonstrated through difference frequency generation in BaGa2GeSe6 crystal pumped by 100-fs 0.95-μm Ti:sapphire laser pulses. Optical damage threshold and two-photon absorption coefficient were determined for this pump pulses. Frequency conversion efficiency reached 0.24% at 1.85 mJ pump pulse energy and was decreased at higher one. Estimations indicate that application of 15 mm in diameter wide-aperture BaGa2GeSe6 sample will allow one to increase pump pulse energy up to ~10 mJ, and to increase the mid-IR pulse energy up to 24 μJ at the same efficiency.