bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Budworms, beetles and wildfire: Disturbance interactions influence the likelihood of insect‐caused disturbances at a subcontinental scale
Authors: Howe Michael , Hart Sarah J. , Trowbridge Amy M.
Published: September 2024

Irruptive forest insects are a leading biotic disturbance across temperate and boreal forests. Outbreaks of forest insects are becoming more frequent and extensive due to anthropogenic drivers (e.g. climate and land‐use), perhaps increasing the likelihood that forests will experience multiple insect‐caused disturbances.

Across the fire‐prone Douglas‐fir forests of western North America, recent outbreaks of the western spruce budworm and Douglas‐fir beetle have impacted large expanses of forests, with a higher degree of overlap than expected in some ecoregions. Outbreaks of both insects are positively related to host availability and exhibit density‐dependent population dynamics that are affected by climate and weather.

Here, we leverage data from aerial detection surveys, estimates of host availability, climate and weather, and categorized fire severity to describe the spatial overlap between western spruce budworm and Douglas‐fir beetle and assess: (1) how climate and host availability influence the biogeography of outbreaks; (2) how weather incites outbreaks; and finally, (3) how prior disturbances (fire and biotic) affect the subsequent outbreak likelihood of western spruce budworm and Douglas‐fir beetle.

Models demonstrate that western spruce budworm and Douglas‐fir beetle share similar predisposing drivers of outbreaks. Outbreaks of both insects were more likely to occur following warm weather, but only beetle outbreaks were more likely following drought. When controlling for differences in outbreak distribution and inciting factors, results indicate that both prior fire and interspecific disturbance altered the likelihood of subsequent insect‐caused disturbance.

Specifically, Douglas‐fir beetle outbreaks were more likely to occur for several years following low severity fire, but less likely otherwise. Prior defoliation, especially longer duration defoliation, increased the likelihood of beetle outbreak within stands and across the landscape. On the contrary, western spruce budworm outbreaks were less likely to occur following fire, while prior beetle activity dampened budworm outbreak likelihood for several years, and then eventually increased outbreak likelihood.

Synthesis: Biotic–biotic disturbance interactions have the potential to amplify the incidence of insect‐caused disturbance across subcontinental scales. Our findings highlight the need for future work on mechanistic linkages between biotic disturbance agents as well as the ramifications for forest trajectories and function.
Rural but not radical right: The rural‐urban cleavage in Norway
Authors: Auerbach Kiran R. , Eidheim Marta R. , Fimreite Anne L.
Published: September 2024

Conventional wisdom claims that rural voters are politically mobilized by right‐wing and culturally conservative forces, while urban voters are left‐leaning and have progressive cultural views. Leveraging original survey data from Norway, our work challenges this dichotomy. We build on cleavage theory and recent research on place identitiesto develop a latent measure of rural attachment. Using regression analysis, we investigate how well this measure maps onto five different cultural attitudes, left‐ right ideology, and partisan voting. The findings show that people with rural identities are not more right‐wing, reluctant towards immigration, or anti‐environmental than their urban counterparts. Instead, the geographic cleavage relates to dissatisfaction with the way the central government treats rural areas, resistance to the EU, and voting for the agrarian Center Party. The findings from Norway therefore show that it is possible to mobilize rural identifiers without disparaging immigrants or adopting other radical‐right stances. Our work suggests that the supply of political parties plays a decisive role in how rural identities are activated and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the urban‐rural divide in advanced, multi‐party democracies.
DentAge: Deep learning for automated age prediction using panoramic dental X‐ray images
Authors: Bizjak Žiga , Robič Tina
Published: September 2024

Age estimation plays a crucial role in various fields, including forensic science and anthropology. This study aims to develop and validate DentAge, a deep‐learning model for automated age prediction using panoramic dental X‐ray images. DentAge was trained on a dataset comprising 21,007 panoramic dental X‐ray images sourced from a private dental center in Slovenia. The dataset included subjects aged 4 to 97 years with various dental conditions. Transfer learning was employed, initializing the model with ImageNet weights and fine‐tuning on the dental image dataset. The model was trained using stochastic gradient descent with momentum, and mean absolute error (MAE) served as the objective function. Across the test dataset, DentAge achieved an MAE of 3.12 years, demonstrating its efficacy in age prediction. Notably, the model performed well across different age groups, with MAEs ranging from 1.94 (age group [10–20]) to 13.40 years (age group [90–100]). Visual evaluation revealed factors contributing to prediction errors, including prosthetic restorations, tooth loss, and bone resorption. DentAge represents a significant advancement in automated age prediction within dentistry. The model's robust performance across diverse age groups and dental conditions underscores its potential utility in real‐world scenarios. Our model will be accessible to the public for further adjustments and validation, ensuring DentAge's effectiveness and trustworthiness in practical scenarios.
Psychosis Prognosis Predictor: A continuous and uncertainty‐aware prediction of treatment outcome in first‐episode psychosis
Authors: van Opstal Daniël P. J. , Kia Seyed Mostafa , Jakob Lea , Somers Metten , Sommer Iris E. C. , Winter‐van Rossum Inge , Kahn René S. , Cahn Wiepke , Schnack Hugo G.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Machine learning models have shown promising potential in individual‐level outcome prediction for patients with psychosis, but also have several limitations. To address some of these limitations, we present a model that predicts multiple outcomes, based on longitudinal patient data, while integrating prediction uncertainty to facilitate more reliable clinical decision‐making.

Material and Methods

We devised a recurrent neural network architecture incorporating long short‐term memory (LSTM) units to facilitate outcome prediction by leveraging multimodal baseline variables and clinical data collected at multiple time points. To account for model uncertainty, we employed a novel fuzzy logic approach to integrate the level of uncertainty into individual predictions. We predicted antipsychotic treatment outcomes in 446 first‐episode psychosis patients in the OPTiMiSE study, for six different clinical scenarios. The treatment outcome measures assessed at both week 4 and week 10 encompassed symptomatic remission, clinical global remission, and functional remission.

Results

Using only baseline predictors to predict different outcomes at week 4, leave‐one‐site‐out validation AUC ranged from 0.62 to 0.66; performance improved when clinical data from week 1 was added (AUC = 0.66–0.71). For outcome at week 10, using only baseline variables, the models achieved AUC = 0.56–0.64; using data from more time points (weeks 1, 4, and 6) improved the performance to AUC = 0.72–0.74. After incorporating prediction uncertainties and stratifying the model decisions based on model confidence, we could achieve accuracies above 0.8 for ~50% of patients in five out of the six clinical scenarios.

Conclusion

We constructed prediction models utilizing a recurrent neural network architecture tailored to clinical scenarios derived from a time series dataset. One crucial aspect we incorporated was the consideration of uncertainty in individual predictions, which enhances the reliability of decision‐making based on the model's output. We provided evidence showcasing the significance of leveraging time series data for achieving more accurate treatment outcome prediction in the field of psychiatry.
A matter of trust? Analyzing the relationship between attitudes toward COVID‐19 countermeasures and right‐wing ideology in Germany
Authors: Klebba Lea‐Johanna , Winter Stephan
Published: September 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has divided societies, especially regarding vaccine mandates. While research suggests that political ideology plays a crucial role in whether people support or oppose COVID‐19 countermeasures, the relationship between these attitudes and political ideology remains unclear, with varying results across different countries. The present research focuses on right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA) in Germany, examining its role as a predictor. Prior studies highlight that, conservatives and right‐wing authoritarians, particularly in the USA, tend to hold more negative attitudes toward COVID‐19 countermeasures despite RWA's usual association with unwavering support for state authorities. Therefore, the present survey study (N = 1063) investigated whether trust in politics and science moderates this relationship. Contrary to expectations, the findings revealed that RWA consistently predicted support for vaccine mandates independent of trust levels. Results are discussed about the specifics of the German case and more general relationships between political ideology and the support of state authorities.
Impact of codeine rescheduling on prescribing of codeine and other opioids: Interrupted time series analyses using Australian general practice data
Authors: Cangadis‐Douglass Helena , Xia Ting , Bell J. Simon , Nielsen Suzanne
Published: September 2024

Aims

We aimed to determine the impact of codeine rescheduling on prescribing of codeine and other opioids, with a focus on demographic and diagnoses associated with codeine prescribing before and after rescheduling of codeine to prescription‐only in February 2018.

Methods

We used interrupted time series analysis (February 2016‐February 2020) and probit regression to examine prescribing of codeine and other opioids according to primary care data from 464 general practice clinics in Victoria, Australia.

Results

The rate of codeine prescribing increased in the month following rescheduling (additional 76 people/10000, 95% confidence interval [CI] 49‐103), then declined to baseline rates (slope −2.02, 95% CI 3.79, −0.25). Prescribing of other opioids did not change. Post rescheduling, females were more likely to receive codeine prescriptions compared to males (β = 0.094, 95% CI 0.08‐0.108) and those aged 70‐79 years were more likely to receive codeine compared to those aged <30 years. Those residing in the least disadvantaged areas had a greater probability of being prescribed codeine than those in more disadvantaged areas after rescheduling (β = 0.154, 95% CI 0.129‐0.179). A documented mental health diagnosis (β = 0.067, 95% CI 0.052‐0.082) or migraine diagnosis (β = 0.057, 95% CI 0.037‐0.078) was associated with increased likelihood of receiving a codeine prescription after rescheduling compared to before in contrast to those without such a diagnosis.

Conclusion

Codeine rescheduling did not result in a sustained increase in codeine prescribing nor a change in the prescribing of other opioids. Patient factors associated with increased codeine prescribing after compared to before rescheduling included female sex, older age, migraine diagnosis and comorbid mental health conditions.

Registration

EU PAS Register (EUPAS43218).
A randomized phase I study of the safety and pharmacokinetics of BI 1291583 in healthy Japanese male subjects
Authors: Tadayasu Yusuke , Sarubbi Donald , Furuichi Takumi , Eleftheraki Anastasia , Nakamura Shuhei , Sauter Wiebke , Hanada Ryuzo
Published: September 2024

Aims

Bronchiectasis patients face an unmet need for treatment options that reduce inflammation. Cathepsin C inhibition is expected to achieve this by reducing the activation of neutrophil‐derived serine proteases. Here, we present safety and pharmacokinetic (PK) data from a Phase I trial evaluating the novel cathepsin C inhibitor BI 1291583 in healthy Japanese male subjects.

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study investigated BI 1291583 in healthy Japanese male subjects (jRCT2071210111) and consisted of a single‐rising‐dose (SRD) part and a multiple‐dose (MD) part. The primary endpoint was the percentage of subjects with drug‐related treatment‐emergent adverse events (AEs). Secondary PK endpoints (SRD: AUC0‐∞ and Cmax; MD: AUCτ,1 and Cmax,1 after first dose and AUCτ,ss and Cmax,ss after last dose), as well as further safety and PK endpoints, were also assessed.

Results

Overall, 36 subjects (n = 24 for SRD part; n = 12 for MD part) entered this Phase I trial. BI 1291583 was safe and well tolerated across the doses tested. All AEs were of mild intensity, with no drug‐related treatment‐emergent AEs, deaths, serious AEs or AEs of special interest reported in either part of the trial. Following both SRD and MD administration, BI 1291583 was readily absorbed, and PK was supraproportional over the doses assessed.

Conclusion

The results show that BI 1291583 has an appropriate benefit–risk ratio for Japanese patients, with no safety or exposure concerns at the doses studied. Japanese patients with bronchiectasis can be safely integrated into future global clinical trials of BI 1291583, with no dose adjustment required.
Hierarchical Spherical Cross‐Parameterization for Deforming Characters
Authors: Cao Lizhou , Peng Chao
Published: September 2024

The demand for immersive technology and realistic virtual environments has created a need for automated solutions to generate characters with morphological variations. However, existing approaches either rely on manual labour or oversimplify the problem by limiting it to static meshes or deformation transfers without shape morphing. In this paper, we propose a new cross‐parameterization approach that semi‐automates the generation of morphologically diverse characters with synthesized articulations and animations. The main contribution of this work is that our approach parameterizes deforming characters into a novel hierarchical multi‐sphere domain, while considering the attributes of mesh topology, deformation and animation. With such a multi‐sphere domain, our approach minimizes parametric distortion rates, enhances the bijectivity of parameterization and aligns deforming feature correspondences. The alignment process we propose allows users to focus only on major joint pairs, which is much simpler and more intuitive than the existing alignment solutions that involve a manual process of identifying feature points on mesh surfaces. Compared to recent works, our approach achieves high‐quality results in the applications of 3D morphing, texture transfer, character synthesis and deformation transfer.
The role of visitor studies in shaping visitor‐centered museums
Authors: Hayde Donnelley , Weiss Laura , Meyer Justin Reeves
Published: September 2024

Visitor studies are an important source of knowledge within museum practice: They inform what we believe about our audiences, what kinds of interpretation we develop, and how we conceptualize success. As visitor studies professionals, we see firsthand that the ways we gather data have implications for how we and our colleagues view visitors and how visitors perceive our institutions. Meanwhile, we also see opportunities for visitor studies within museums' broader aspirations to become more visitor‐centered, as defined by meaningful two‐way engagement with visitors. Using real‐world project examples, this paper explores possibilities for moving toward a more visitor‐centered approach to data collection, in which practitioners can more clearly privilege meaning, transparency, and care. As starting points, we suggest that active attention to four considerations should inform more visitor‐centered visitor studies: comfort (i.e., the well‐being of people); context (i.e., the circumstances of museum experiences and study implementation); flexibility (i.e., responsiveness to dynamics that imply a need for change); and value (i.e., supporting relations of mutual benefit).
Beyond Compensation: Reparations and the Ongoing Colonization of Australia
Authors: Klein Elise
Published: September 2024

This article examines the relationship between reparations as compensation and reparations as transformation in settler colonial Australia. Much of the global reparations debate on colonization and slavery has focused on important demands confronting the historic damages and ongoing accumulation of disadvantage from colonization in ex‐colonies or from plantation slavery. Much less has been said about reparations for settler colonialism which is a specific form of ongoing colonization in the here and now. Drawing on long‐standing work around reparations for colonization by Indigenous peoples in Australia, and the woeful compensatory responses the state and judiciary have offered, this article argues that reparations for ongoing colonization could consider options beyond monetary compensation. This includes the critical domain of reparations as transformation that aim less to offset damage and reconcile suffering, but rather to comprehensively transform colonial relations.
Association between estimated glucose disposal rate and cardiovascular mortality across the spectrum of glucose tolerance in the US population
Authors: Guo Rubing , Tong Jingjing , Cao Yongtong , Zhao Wei
Published: September 2024

Aims

To determine if estimated glucose disposal rate (eGDR) can predict cardiovascular disease mortality risk at different levels of glycaemic tolerance.

Materials and Methods

The eGDR levels of 11 656 individuals aged 45–79 years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles 1999 to 2010 were analysed. Associations between eGDR levels and all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality were examined using Cox proportional hazards and Fine and Gray models, respectively.

Results

After a median follow‐up of 12.8 years, a total of 2852 participants died, with 777 of those deaths attributed to cardiovascular causes. When comparing participants with eGDR values of ≤4 mg/kg/min to those with eGDR values falling within the ranges of 4–6, 6–8 and >8 mg/kg/min, it was found that the latter groups exhibited lower hazard ratios for both all‐cause mortality (0.61 [0.52–0.72], 0.61 [0.52–0.72] and 0.46 [0.39–0.55]) and cardiovascular mortality (0.44 [0.33–0.57], 0.45 [0.34–0.59] and 0.30 [0.23–0.40]). A U‐shaped relationship between eGDR and all‐cause mortality was observed, with an inflection point at an eGDR of 9.54 mg/kg/min.

Conclusions

In the general population, the association between reduced eGDR and all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality was independently significant, contributing to the identification of individuals at high risk for different levels of glucose tolerances.
(Sub‐)Antarctic endemic cyanobacteria from benthic mats are rare and have restricted geographic distributions
Authors: Durieu Benoit , Savaglia Valentina , Lara Yannick , Lambion Alexandre , Pessi Igor S. , Vyverman Wim , Verleyen Elie , Wilmotte Annick
Published: September 2024

The Antarctic terrestrial macrobiota are highly endemic and biogeographically structured, but whether this also holds true for microbial groups remains poorly understood. We studied the biogeographic patterns of Antarctic cyanobacteria from benthic microbial mats sampled in 84 lakes from two sub‐Antarctic islands, as well as from eight Antarctic Conservation Biogeographic Regions (ACBRs) which were previously defined based mainly on macroscopic taxa. Analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that Antarctic and sub‐Antarctic lakes host significantly different cyanobacterial communities, yet that the bioregionalization pattern did not correspond to the division into ACBRs. Both Antarctic and sub‐Antarctic lakes contain a high number of potentially endemic taxa (41% of the total diversity), of which 33.3% attain a relative abundance of < 1%. Our findings highlight the uniqueness of Antarctic microbiota and the need for increased protection of inland waters in both Antarctica and the sub‐Antarctic islands.
Engaging in social innovation education: Reciprocal relations between student wellbeing and programme wellbeing outcomes
Authors: Maynard Andrea , Symonds Jennifer E.
Published: September 2024

Social innovation education (SIE) is a student‐led collaborative process of creating unique solutions to challenges within the community. Through an analysis of pre‐ and post‐surveys completed by 94 post‐primary school students in Ireland, the current study looked at how prior wellbeing (measured using the EPOCH model) influenced change in wellbeing through engagement with the SIE programme. While the models produced indicated that all five dimensions of the EPOCH model (engagement, perseverance, optimism, connectedness, and happiness) were impacted by the programme, the results also indicated that students with higher prior wellbeing were more likely to have higher levels of engagement, and as a result gained greater wellbeing‐related outcomes. These findings highlight the benefit that a programme like SIE, which is not designed as a wellbeing intervention, can have on wellbeing, and the importance of considering additional encouragement and support based on the individual needs of each student.
Combining Masculinizing Resistance, Rotation, and Biocontrol to Achieve Durable Suppression of the Potato Pale Cyst Nematode: A Model
Authors: Tankam Chedjou Israël , Montarry Josselin , Fournet Sylvain , Hamelin Frédéric M.
Published: September 2024

The pale cyst nematode, Globodera pallida, is a pest that poses a significant threat to potato crops worldwide. The most effective chemical nematicides are toxic to nontarget organisms and are now banned. Alternative control methods are therefore required. Crop rotation and biological control methods have limitations for effectively managing nematodes. The use of genetically resistant cultivars is a promising alternative, but nematode populations evolve, and virulent mutants can break resistance after just a few years. Masculinizing resistances, preventing avirulent nematodes from producing females, might be more durable than blocking resistances, preventing infection. Our demo‐genetic model, tracking both nematode population densities and virulence allele frequencies, shows that virulence against masculinizing resistance may not be fixed in the pest population under realistic agricultural conditions. Avirulence may persist despite the uniform use of resistance. This is because avirulent male nematodes may transmit avirulent alleles to their progeny by mating with virulent females. Additionally, because avirulent nematodes do not produce females themselves, they weaken the reproductive rate of the nematode population, leading to a reduction in its density by at least 20%. This avirulence load can even lead to the collapse of the nematode population in theory. Overall, our model showed that combining masculinizing resistance, rotation, and biocontrol may achieve durable suppression of G. pallida in a reasonable time frame. Our work is supported by an online interactive interface allowing users (i.e., growers, plant health authorities, researchers) to test their own control combinations.
Intra‐arterial contrast enhanced computed tomography of the deep digital flexor tendon and palmar veins in the distal forelimb in Jeju horses: Evaluating contrast‐enhancing factors
Authors: Lee Seyoung , Shin Kwang‐Yun , Lee Kija , Seo Jong‐pil
Published: September 2024

Background

Few studies have investigated the adequate contrast enhancement (CE) evaluation depending on concentration, volume, and rate of administration of contrast media (CM) and the scan parameters in equine contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT).

Objectives

To investigate CE of the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) and veins depending on the computed tomography (CT) voltage and concentration, volume, and rate of CM administration during intra‐arterial CECT of equine distal forelimbs.

Study Design

In vivo experiments.

Methods

Six horses underwent 54 CT scans. First, the CE of DDFT and veins was evaluated depending on the voltage (80 kV and 250 mA or 120 kV and 150 mA) and CM concentration (150, 120, or 90 mg I/mL in 50 mL of CM). Second, CE of DDFT and veins was evaluated depending on the CM volume (50, 100, or 150 mL) and administration rate (2, 4, or 6 mL/s) with a fixed iodine delivery rate (IDR; 300 or 180 mg I/s).

Results

Contrast enhancement of DDFT was significantly higher at 80 kV of voltage and 150 mg I/mL of CM concentration (Median: 29.65; IQR: 1.74; p < 0.05). CE of the DDFT positively correlated with CM concentration (p < 0.001; r = 0.75). At 180 mg I/s IDR, contrast attenuation in the medial and lateral palmar veins significantly decreased at a CM of 30 mg I/mL, rate of 6 mL/s, and volume of 150 mL (median and IQR: 985.93 and 71.8 Hounsfield units [HU] and 988.73 and 41.16 HU, respectively); the CE was sufficient to distinguish between the vessels and the adjacent structures.

Main Limitations

The number of animals was small.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that a low CM concentration could yield sufficient CE of the DDFT and arteries with adjusted CT scanning parameters or volume and injection rate of CM.
The Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire: Validity evidence from Portugal
Authors: Morais Inês , Carneiro Francis Anne , Sinval Jorge , Costa Pedro Alexandre , Leal Isabel
Published: September 2024

Background

Family resilience refers to a family's capacity to face and manage adversities, emerging as a stronger and more resourceful unit. A family system approach enlarges the lens to the broad relational network, identifying potential resources for resilience within the immediate and extended family. This approach emphasizes a family's innate ability to adapt in the face of adversities.

Objective

This study aims to test the psychometric properties of the Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire (WFRQ) using a sample of Portuguese caregivers with children aged between 10 and 15 years.

Method

A total of 267 caregivers of children aged 10 to 15 years completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the WFRQ. Analyses were performed to evaluate the WFRQ's validity evidence based on the internal structure (i.e., dimensionality and reliability) and on its relationship to other variables.

Results

The findings supported a 31‐item version of the WFRQ with one third‐order latent factor, three second‐order factors, and nine first‐order factors for the Portuguese population. The WFRQ exhibited satisfactory validity evidence based on the internal structure and relation to other variables.

Conclusion

Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the suitability of the WFRQ as a holistic measure to gauge resilience at the family level, going beyond individual assessments.

Implications

This instrument holds significant utility in family resilience research and clinical interventions involving families.
Digital simulations as a pedagogical tool: How ready are Fiji year‐11 science teachers?
Authors: Nandani Shayal , Raturi Shikha
Published: September 2024

Background

Digital simulations are emerging technologies in science education that allow students to visualise abstract concepts and enable science teachers to conduct laboratory work/experiments online.

Objective

To determine teacher readiness, the study focused on their cognitive skills and knowledge and perceptions of the use of digital simulations as a pedagogical tool incorporating an intervention in its research design.

Methods

The theoretical framework of this study combines the modified Technology Acceptance Model with the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning. Snowball sampling was used to recruit 10 chemistry teachers from secondary schools and a mixed methods sequential explanatory research design was adopted. The data was collected through survey, interview, pre‐test and post‐test results before and after the intervention (training).

Results

Science teachers perceive digital simulations as valuable and easy to use and are ready to use them in future lessons. An increase in cognitive knowledge and skills coupled with a positive mindset was noted after the training. The teachers indicated the need for training and support at all levels to successfully integrate digital simulations in their classrooms. Additionally, parents' engagement to enhance their awareness of such initiatives was deemed crucial for their support.

Conclusions

The study calls for a rethinking and a revision of science curriculum, policies and enhancement of infrastructure/general resources to support technology‐enabled learning, teaching and assessment practices in science classrooms; a continuous professional development program for teachers to keep up with the changing needs of 21st‐century education is imperative.
Evaluating applied security controls for safeguarding medical device‐integrated electronic medical records
Authors: Alhammad Aeshah , Yusof Maryati Mohd. , Jambari Dian Indrayani
Published: September 2024

Rationale, Aims, and Objectives

Medical device‐integrated electronic medical records (MDI‐EMR) pose significant challenges in ensuring effective usage, data security and patient safety. The complexities of MDI‐EMR necessitate applying various security mechanisms to safeguard against cyber threats. Therefore, we evaluated cyber threats to MDI‐EMR and the effectiveness of applied security controls using a proposed framework from sociotechnical and risk assessment perspectives.

Method

We conducted a qualitative case study evaluation in a general hospital in Saudi Arabia using interviews, observation, and document analysis from the perspectives of major MDI‐EMR stakeholders, including healthcare providers, IT professionals and cybersecurity specialists.

Results

The results showed the interplay among physical, technical and administrative security controls that maintained a secure posture of MDI‐EMR. The effectiveness of security controls is highly influenced by the staff's cybersecurity awareness and training. The perceived effectiveness of security controls varied among users, with some expressing satisfaction with the ease of use and reliability, while others highlighting challenges such as password complexity and access procedures. Understanding these diverse perspectives is crucial for tailoring security measures to meet the needs of different stakeholders effectively.

Conclusion

Collaboration among the key stakeholders is crucial for implementing security controls for MDI‐EMR. Balancing security measures with usability concerns is essential, as highlighted by challenges in implementing technical controls. A comprehensive approach encompassing physical, technical and administrative controls, continuous education and awareness initiatives are significant to empower staff in recognising and mitigating cyber threats effectively to safeguard medical data and ensure the integrity of healthcare systems.
Enhancing the Opacity of Glass Ceramics by Applying Opaque Stains to the Intaglio Surface
Authors: Pilecco Rafaela Oliveira , Konzen Marlon Roberto , Binotto Felipe Somavilla , Pereira Gabriel Kalil Rocha , Bacchi Atais
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of opaque stain application to the intaglio surface of lithium disilicate glass ceramics on the masking ability of discolored substrates and bond strength to a resin‐based luting agent (depending on etching time); the stain film‐thickness was also assessed.

Materials and Methods

Ceramic specimens were produced with CAD‐CAM blocks of lithium disilicate (IPS e.max CAD). Two opaque stains were tested at ceramic intaglio surface: opaque glassy stain for titanium frameworks (OP‐ti) and low‐fusion glassy stain for ceramic characterization (LFG‐iv). Non‐stained ceramic specimens served as controls. For optical and colorimetric analyses, A2‐shaded ceramics of medium and low‐translucencies were tested, in thicknesses of 1.0‐ and 1.5‐mm (n = 10), with two coupling agents (non‐shaded—glycerin and A2‐shaded try‐in paste). CIEDE2000 formula was used for calculation of translucency parameter (TP00) and color differences (ΔE00). Whiteness index for dentistry (WID) was also reported. ΔE00 were assessed over discolored substrates (tooth‐shaded A2—reference, A4, C3, and C4; coppery metal, silvery metal, white zirconia, and PEEK). Microshear bond strength of stained and non‐stained ceramic specimens to a resin‐based luting agent was evaluated. Film‐thickness of stains was assessed by scanning electron microscopy.

Results

The application of opaque stains to the intaglio surface of lithium disilicate ceramics resulted in significant reduction of TP00 (p < 0.001) and WID (p < 0.001) and differences in L*, C*, and ho color coordinates (especially with OP‐ti) (p < 0.001). ΔE00 was significantly reduced in stained ceramic groups in comparison with the control, for all discolored substrates (p < 0.001). Acceptable color matching was obtained with stained ceramic specimens for all discolored substrates, depending on the type of stain, ceramic thickness, ceramic translucency, and coupling agent. The application of stains to the ceramic intaglio surface was not detrimental to bond strength to a resin‐based luting agent, but depended on the time of hydrofluoric acid‐etching (20 s for OP‐ti and 60 s for LFG‐iv) (p < 0.001). Film‐thickness of stains presented mean values <70 μm.

Conclusion

The application of opaque stains to the intaglio surface of lithium disilicate glass ceramics was effective to mask severely discolored substrates, presenting adequate bond strength to the luting agent and thin film‐thicknesses.

Clinical Significance

For indirect restorations over severely discolored substrates, the application of opaque stain to the intaglio surface of lithium disilicate glass ceramic ensures acceptable color matching, with adequate bond strength to resin‐based luting agents and clinically acceptable stain film‐thickness.
Exploring Genetic Drug Targets in Acne Vulgaris: A Comprehensive Proteome‐Wide Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Ju Ruyi , Ying Yuou , Zhou Qiujun , Cao Yi
Published: September 2024

Background

Acne vulgaris presents a substantial clinical challenge due to its complex pathophysiology and significant impact on quality of life. Identification of novel therapeutic targets for acne using genetic tools can guide the development of more effective treatments.

Methods

Utilizing a dataset comprising 35 559 Icelandic individuals, we performed proteomic analyses to quantify 4709 circulating proteins. We integrated these data with acne‐specific genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) encompassing 34 422 acne patients and 364 991 controls. Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses employed the TwoSampleMR tool and Summary‐data‐based Mendelian Randomization (SMR) to estimate the causal effects of identified proteins on acne risk. Colocalization analyses assessed the likelihood of shared genetic etiology between protein levels and acne using the “coloc” R package.

Results

Our proteome‐wide MR analysis initially identified 128 proteins potentially associated with acne risk. Following multiple testing corrections using the Benjamini–Hochberg method, fatty acid synthase (FASN) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 4 (TIMP4) remained significantly associated with acne risk. FASN exhibited a protective effect against acne (OR = 0.768, 95% CI: 0.676–0.872, p = 4.685E‐05), while TIMP4 was associated with an increased risk (OR = 1.169, 95% CI: 1.103–1.241, p = 1.956E‐07). Colocalization analysis supported a shared genetic basis for these protein‐acne associations, with posterior probabilities indicating strong evidence of shared causal variants.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the utility of integrative genomic approaches in identifying potential therapeutic targets for acne. FASN and TIMP4, in particular, demonstrate strong potential as targets for therapeutic intervention, pending further validation through clinical research. These results offer a foundation for targeted acne treatment development, aligning with personalized medicine principles.
High photosynthesis rates in Brassiceae species are mediated by leaf anatomy enabling high biochemical capacity, rapid CO2 diffusion and efficient light use
Authors: Retta Moges A. , Van Doorselaer Leen , Driever Steven M. , Yin Xinyou , de Ruijter Norbert C. A. , Verboven Pieter , Nicolaï Bart M. , Struik Paul C.
Published: September 2024

Certain species in the Brassicaceae family exhibit high photosynthesis rates, potentially providing a valuable route toward improving agricultural productivity. However, factors contributing to their high photosynthesis rates are still unknown.

We compared Hirschfeldia incana, Brassica nigra, Brassica rapa and Arabidopsis thaliana, grown under two contrasting light intensities.

Hirschfeldia incana matched B. nigra and B. rapa in achieving very high photosynthesis rates under high growth‐light condition, outperforming A. thaliana. Photosynthesis was relatively more limited by maximum photosynthesis capacity in H. incana and B. rapa and by mesophyll conductance in A. thaliana and B. nigra. Leaf traits such as greater exposed mesophyll specific surface enabled by thicker leaf or high‐density small palisade cells contributed to the variation in mesophyll conductance among the species. The species exhibited contrasting leaf construction strategies and acclimation responses to low light intensity. High‐light plants distributed Chl deeper in leaf tissue, ensuring even distribution of photosynthesis capacity, unlike low‐light plants.

Leaf anatomy of H. incana, B. nigra and B. rapa facilitated effective CO2 diffusion, efficient light use and provided ample volume for their high maximum photosynthetic capacity, indicating that a combination of adaptations is required to increase CO2‐assimilation rates in plants.
Primary care practitioner and patient perspectives on care following bariatric surgery: A meta‐synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Badorrek Sally , Franklin Janet , McBride Kate A. , Conway Laura , Williams Kathryn
Published: September 2024

Primary care is central to ongoing health care following bariatric surgery and patients indicate a preference for receiving follow‐up support by their primary care practitioner (PCP). This meta‐synthesis investigates the perspectives of both PCPs and patients in post‐bariatric surgery care provided by PCPs. The aim was to synthesize themes from qualitative research to recommend improvements in post‐bariatric surgery clinical care in primary care settings. Systematic searches of Scopus, Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar resulted in the inclusion of eight papers in the meta‐synthesis. Papers were critiqued using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) and thematically coded in Quirkos Cloud. Seven themes were reached by author consensus including stigma and judgment; clinician barriers and facilitators; patient‐related support needs; communication considerations; patient context or determinants; health care setting; and adapting to life after surgery. PCPs reported barriers including poor communication and guidance from bariatric surgery centers, limited knowledge and training in bariatric patient care, and patients who may have unrealistic outcomes and poor health literacy. Patients seek comprehensive care from their PCP, however, barriers hindering the provision of this care include adverse surgical outcomes, a poor relationship with their PCP, and limited and short‐term follow‐up care from the PCP. Insights from this meta‐synthesis offer actionable recommendations for PCPs and bariatric surgery centers to enhance patient care immediately.
Enhancing Measurement Precision in the Ms. Olsen Test of Clinical Competence: Further Examinations
Authors: Bing‐Jonsson Pia Cecilie , Svendsen Lene , Boman Erika , Eiken Guro‐Marie , Melin Jeanette
Published: September 2024

Aim

This paper aims to report on two modifications made to improve the measurement precision of the Ms. Olsen test. Specifically, three items were added to the Ms. Olsen test and an extended scoring was applied to some items.

Design

The competence assessment had a quantitative cross‐sectional design comprising of test results from 111 Registered Nurses in four municipalities in South‐Eastern Norway.

Methods

The Rasch model was applied to evaluate the measurement properties in four versions: the Ms. Olsen test with 19 items and the same with three added items, and the Ms. Olsen test with 19 items with an expanded scoring for the original and expanded version, respectively.

Results

The person separation indexes were improved from 0.50 to 0.62. Other measurement properties were not alternating between the four versions; all had shortcomings in terms of targeting (person measure means 3.02–3.87) and unidimensionality (% t‐test >5% 9.01%–13.51%).

Conclusion

The clinical relevance and relatively short time spent on testing makes the Ms. Olsen test a reasonable choice and a step in the right direction for assessing competence as a means of targeting continuous professional development of nurses throughout their career. Nevertheless, depending on what kind of decisions are to be made, reliability might still be too low and further development is suggested.

Public Contribution

The initiative for the competence assessment came from nursing leaders in the four municipalities involved. The municipalities were represented in all stages of the research process through co‐author LS, that is, design, data collection, data analysis, writing of the manuscript as well as dissemination of the results to the four municipalities.

Implications for Practice

The Ms. Olsen test exemplifies a move towards objective assessments in nursing. Precise and reliable measurements are essential to support the ongoing professional development of nurses.
2024 UK and Ireland modified Delphi consensus on myopia management in children and young people
Authors: Dahlmann‐Noor Annegret H. , Ghorbani‐Mojarrad Neema , Williams Katie M. , Ghoneim Ahmed , Allen Peter M. , Beach Michelle L. , Bruce Gillian , Buckhurst Hetal D. , Buckhurst Phillip J. , Cruickshank Fiona E. , Cufflin Matthew P. , Day Mhairi D. , Doyle Lesley , Evans Bruce J. W. , Flitcroft Daniel Ian , Gray Lyle S. , Grewal Indie , Guggenheim Jeremy A. , Hammond Christopher J. , Higginbotham Jason C. , Jawaid Imran , Kearney Stephanie , Lawrenson John G. , Logan Nicola S. , Loughman James , Mallen Edward A. H. , McCullough Sara J. , Nagra Manbir , Saunders Kathryn J. , Seidel Dirk , Shah Tanvi , Strang Niall C. , Webber Kathryn J. , Wolffsohn James S. , Young Alexandra L.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This work aimed to establish the largest UK and Ireland consensus on myopia management in children and young people (CYP).

Methods

A modified Delphi consensus was conducted with a panel of 34 optometrists and ophthalmologists with expertise in myopia management.

Results

Two rounds of voting took place and 131 statements were agreed, including that interventions should be discussed with parents/carers of all CYP who develop myopia before the age of 13 years, a recommendation for interventions to be publicly funded for those at risk of fast progression and high myopia, that intervention selection should take into account the CYP's hobbies and lifestyle and that additional training for eye care professionals should be available from non‐commercial sources. Topics for which published evidence is limited or lacking were areas of weaker or no consensus. Modern myopia management contact and spectacles are suitable first‐line treatments. The role and provision of low‐concentration atropine needs to be reviewed once marketing authorisations and funding decisions are in place. There is some evidence that a combination of low‐concentration atropine with an optical intervention can have an additive effect; further research is needed. Once an intervention is started, best practice is to monitor non‐cycloplegic axial length 6 monthly.

Conclusion

Research is needed to identify those at risk of progression, the long‐term effectiveness of individual and combined interventions, and when to discontinue treatment when myopia has stabilised. As further evidence continues to emerge, this consensus work will be repeated to ensure it remains relevant.
Survey of Sun Exposure Levels, Sun Protection Behavior, and Skin Cancer Risk Awareness in Junior Tennis Players
Authors: Thiele Mia H. , Lee Margaret S. , Thiele Jens J.
Published: September 2024

Despite a growing number of young adults developing skin cancers, little is known about the sun‐protective behavior of high school athletes exposed to high levels of UV radiation, such as junior tennis players. To investigate the frequency and quality of their sun protective behaviors, a web‐based, anonymous survey was conducted among tennis players at high school varsity matches and United States Tennis Association tournaments in Southern California. Although 92.6% of the 81 respondents indicated they play during peak sun intensity hours, 46.9% stated they do not regularly wear sunscreen, 27.2% do not routinely wear hats or visors, only 9.9% wear protective eyewear, and 4.9% wear UV‐protective clothing; furthermore, 87.5% of junior tennis players stated they are not very familiar with skin cancer, but 73.8% would like to learn more about it. The results of this study demonstrate a lack of consistent sun protective behavior among junior tennis players, providing a rationale for the development of targeted educational campaigns to increase skin cancer risk awareness and more effective sun‐protective behavior.
Elucidating light and temperature‐dependent signalling pathways from shoot to root in rice plants: Implications for stress responses
Authors: Gholizadeh Fatemeh , Prerostová Sylva , Pál Magda , Benczúr Kinga , Hamow Kamirán Á. , Majláth Imre , Kun József , Gyenesei Attila , Urbán Péter , Szalai Gabriella , Vanková Radomíra , Janda Tibor
Published: September 2024

The main aim of this work was to better understand how the low temperature signal from the leaves may affect the stress responses in the roots, and how the light conditions modify certain stress acclimation processes in rice plants. Rice plants grown at 27°C were exposed to low temperatures (12°C) with different light intensities, and in the case of some groups of plants, only the leaves received the cold, while the roots remained at control temperature. RNA sequencing focusing on the roots of plants grown under normal growth light conditions found 525 differentially expressed genes in different comparisons. Exposure to low temperature led to more down‐regulated than up‐regulated genes. Comparison between roots of the leaf‐stressed plants and whole cold‐treated or control plants revealed that nitrogen metabolism and nitric oxide‐related signalling, as well as the phenylpropanoid‐related processes, were specifically affected. Real‐time PCR results focusing on the COLD1 and polyamine oxidase genes, as well as metabolomics targeting hormonal changes and phenolic compounds also showed that not only cold exposure of the leaves, either alone or together with the roots, but also the light conditions may influence certain stress responses in the roots of rice plants.