bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in a public-facing office in England
Authors: Nicholls G , Atkinson B , van Veldhoven K , Nicholls I , Coldwell M , Clarke A , Atchison C J , Raja A I , Bennett A M , Morgan D , Pearce N , Fletcher T , Brickley E B , Chen Y
Published: December 2023

Background

An outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) with an attack rate of 55% (22/40 workers) occurred at a public-facing office in England from August to September 2021. Published evidence regarding outbreaks in office workplaces remains limited.

Aims

To describe an investigation of workplace- and worker-related risk factors following an outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in a public-facing office.

Methods

The COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) Outbreak Investigation to Understand Transmission (COVID-OUT) study undertook an investigation of the outbreak. This included surface sampling, occupational environmental assessment, molecular and serological testing of workers, and detailed questionnaires.

Results

Despite existing COVID-19 control measures, surface sampling conducted during a self-imposed 2-week temporary office closure identified viral contamination (10/60 samples, 17% positive), particularly in a small, shared security office (6/9, 67% positive) and on a window handle in one open-plan office. Targeted enhanced cleaning was, therefore, undertaken before the office reopened. Repeat surface sampling after this identified only one positive (2%) sample. Ventilation was deemed adequate using carbon dioxide monitoring (typically ≤1000 ppm). Twelve workers (30%) responded to the COVID-OUT questionnaire, and all had been vaccinated with two doses. One-third of respondents (4/12) reported direct physical or close contact with members of the public; of these, 75% (3/4) reported a divider/screen between themselves and members of the public.

Conclusions

The results highlight the potential utility of surface sampling to identify SARS-CoV-2 control deficiencies and the importance of evolving, site-specific risk assessments with layered COVID-19 mitigation strategies.
Post-acute COVID-19 complications in UK doctors: results of a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bland D , Evans R , Binesmael A , Wood S , Qureshi S P , Fearnley K , Small A , Strain W D , Agius R
Published: December 2023

Background

As a consequence of their occupation, doctors and other healthcare workers were at higher risk of contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and more likely to experience severe disease compared to the general population. However, systematic information on post-acute COVID complications in doctors is very limited.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the symptoms, perceived determinants, health and occupational impact, and consequent needs relating to post-acute COVID complications in UK doctors.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was distributed to UK doctors self-identifying as having Long COVID or other post-acute COVID complications.

Results

Of 795 responses, 603 fulfilled the inclusion criteria of being a UK-based medical doctor experiencing one or more post-acute COVID complications. Twenty-eight per cent reported a lack of adequate Respiratory Protective Equipment at the time of contracting COVID-19. Eighteen per cent of eligible respondents reported that they had been unable to return to work since acquiring COVID.

Conclusions

Post-acute COVID (Long COVID) in UK doctors is a substantial burden for respondents to our questionnaire. The results indicated that insufficient respiratory protection could have contributed to occupational disease, with COVID-19 being contracted in the workplace, and resultant post-COVID complications. Although it may be too late to address the perceived determinants of inadequate protection for those already suffering with Long COVID, more investment is needed in rehabilitation and support of those afflicted.
Sick leave due to SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Vandersmissen G , Verbeeck J , Henckens P , Van Dyck J , Wuytens C , Molenberghs G , Godderis L
Published: December 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused a high burden of sick leave worldwide. Long-term sick leave for COVID-19 may be longer than for other influenza-like syndromes. The real impact of long COVID on absenteeism remains uncertain.

Aims

To investigate the burden of sick leave, especially >12 weeks, in Belgian workers with a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from July 2020 to September 2021 and to compare these figures with sick leave for other infectious diseases.

Methods

We coupled a database of SARS-CoV-2-positive workers and workers who were absent for other infections with objective absence data. Predictors of prolonged sickness were evaluated by negative binomial regression, Cox proportional hazards regression and ordinal logistic regression.

Results

The study population involved 2569 workers who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and 392 workers who were absent for other infectious diseases. In total, 16% (95% CI 14–17%) of workers with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test had no sick leave registered. Fourteen out of 1000 (95% CI 9–20‰) workers with absenteeism for COVID-19 experienced sick leave >12 weeks as compared to 43 out of 1000 workers (95% CI 3–69‰) with absenteeism due to other infections. When including PCR-positive workers without sick leave, the prevalence of long-term sick leave decreased to 12 per 1000 (95% CI8–17‰). Long-term sick leave was associated with older age, high previous sick leave and low educational level.

Conclusions

The prevalence of long-term sick leave was lower than estimated in earlier investigations regardless of worrying reports about post-COVID-19 syndrome.
Advancing shipping NOx pollution estimation through a satellite-based approach
Authors: Luo Zhenyu , He Tingkun , Yi Wen , Zhao Junchao , Zhang Zhining , Wang Yongyue , Liu Huan , He Kebin
Published: December 2023

Estimating shipping nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions and their associated ambient NO2 impacts is a complex and time-consuming task. In this study, a satellite-based ship pollution estimation model (SAT-SHIP) is developed to estimate regional shipping NOx emissions and their contribution to ambient NO2 concentrations in China. Unlike the traditional bottom–up approach, SAT-SHIP employs satellite observations with varying wind patterns to improve the top–down emission inversion methods for individual sectors amidst irregular emission plume signals. Through SAT-SHIP, shipping NOx emissions for 17 ports in China are estimated. The results show that SAT-SHIP performed comparably with the bottom–up approach, with an R2 value of 0.8. Additionally, SAT-SHIP reveals that the shipping sector in port areas contributes ∼21 and 11% to NO2 concentrations in the Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta areas of China, respectively, which is consistent with the results from chemical transportation model simulations. This approach has practical implications for policymakers seeking to identify pollution sources and develop effective strategies to mitigate air pollution.
Measuring lipoprotein(a) for cardiovascular disease prevention – in whom and when?
Authors: Thomas Peter E. , Vedel-Krogh Signe , Nordestgaard Børge G.
Published: December 2023

Purpose of review

The aim of this study is to summarize major cardiovascular guideline recommendations on lipoprotein(a) and highlighting recent findings that emphasize how measuring lipoprotein(a) once in all adults is meaningful regardless of age, sex, comorbidities, or ethnicity.

Recent findings

Many international guidelines now recommend once in a lifetime measurement of lipoprotein(a) in all adult individuals to facilitate accurate risk prediction. Lipoprotein(a)-lowering therapy to reduce cardiovascular disease is on the horizon, with results from the first phase 3 trial expected in 2025.

Elevated lipoprotein(a) is an independent causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and aortic valve stenosis and measuring lipoprotein(a) once in all individuals regardless of age, sex, comorbidities, or ethnicity is meaningful to aid in risk stratification.
Rapid Progression of Cunninghamella Species Leading to Respiratory Compromise
Authors: Oriaifo Osejie , Pasli Melisa , Sivadanam Supriya , Tedder Brandon , Chan Nim , Adabale Olanrewaju , Dilibe Arthur , Cook Paul
Published: December 2023

Cunninghamella spp are a group of filamentous fungi commonly found in soil and decaying matter and can cause infections in immunocompromised individuals, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or with hematologic malignancies. These infections can lead to a rapidly progressive and fatal outcome. Despite accounting for less than 10% of documented mucormycosis cases, disseminated Cunninghamella infections have a higher mortality rate when compared with other mucormycosis.

We present the case of a patient with chronic myelogenous leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes/myeloproliferative neoplasms overlap, receiving azacitidine, who initially presented with a diabetic foot ulcer infested with maggots. The patient rapidly developed respiratory distress and encephalopathy, with imaging revealing consolidation in the right upper lung lobe infected with Cunninghamella spp. Treatment with amphotericin B did not improve the patient's condition. Brain imaging also indicated a 24.4 × 16.9-mm lesion, and given the patient's comorbidities and disease progression, surgical intervention was not feasible. The patient was subsequently transitioned to comfort care.
Fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Through the Lens of Gratitude
Authors: Lawson Crystal , Truelove Alicia
Published: December 2023

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is the work of leaders. The opportunity to embrace individuality and grow collectively is something to be appreciated. The work requires leadership at all levels and starts from within. Having the courage to lean into discomfort that comes with the work reaps great rewards. Assessing your organization and applying learnings is the start to culture change. This is only the start, this work is ongoing, and it is with gratitude we should embrace to opportunity for inclusion. We as individuals and teams will benefit as well as those we serve.
Leveraging Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs to Build Nursing's More Inclusive Future
Authors: Boston-Leary Katie , Alexander G. Rumay , Davis Stephan
Published: December 2023

There is growing evidence that nurses have not seen meaningful change because of their employer's diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) programs. At the same time, efforts are increasing to end DEIB programs and education in academic and work settings. These dynamics present a myriad of challenges negatively impacting any efforts to course correct and progress to build a diverse, inclusive, and pluralistic future. It is critical to urgently address these headwinds and challenges since there is evidence that discriminatory and racist acts germinate in schools of nursing. Almost half (44%) of nurses recently surveyed stated that a culture of racism in nursing schools exists; 60% of Black/African American respondents reported racism/discrimination and nearly 80% believed that more DEIB training was needed. The lack of diversity and inclusion in nursing conflicts squarely with an increasingly diverse and globalized health care consumer base. The overall goal of this article is to leverage a well-embraced framework such as Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs to generate more awareness, understanding, and acceptance of DEIB principles, which directionally sets up a positive future for everyone. Equality, diversity, equity, belonging, mattering, and human flourishing set up a more positive outlook for improved nurse and patient outcomes and for health care overall. With the harms that continue in nursing and society overall, comes emotion and discomfort that must be better understood, distributed, and not quelled. Aligning Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and DEIB helps leaders recognize the human's needs in everyone and apply Maslow's theory to all therefore increasing inclusiveness.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
Authors: Fritz Melissa , Gresham Ashley
Published: December 2023

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are corresponding values that represent the workforce makeup, ensure fair treatment for all, provide organizations with welcome and support for all employees, and empower them to make a profound impact. Being welcome, included, and valued is a fundamental human need and essential to eliminating inequities in the world. The worlds of 2 nursing leaders collided at the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) Director Fellowship. One was an African American nursing leader, and the other a White nursing leader, realizing that their worlds were very similar in leadership, yet different in many ways. This article gives the reader an inside look at the DEI journeys of both nursing leaders and their impact on DEI in the professional workplace and surrounding community. It showcases the great work of 2 health care organizations, one in the Midwest and one in the Southeast.
Outsiders Within
Authors: Dunkley Daihnia
Published: December 2023

Few Black nurses occupy positions of leadership, and even fewer Black female nurses advance to careers as nurse executives. The purpose of this 2018 study was to explore the lived experience of being Black and female when becoming a nurse executive, specifically the nuances of being both a racial and gender minority. Using a hermeneutic phenomenological method, this study explored the experiences of a purposive sample of 10 Black female nurse executives through semistructured telephone interviews. van Manen's approach and Collins' Black feminist thought as the theoretical framework guided data analysis. Three themes emerged: (a) living in a constant state of readiness; (b) embracing the responsibility beyond the job description; and (c) overcoming. Participants testified of the psychological dynamics of Black womanness, and the burdens of the intersectionality of race, gender, and class discrimination, while managing the complexities and rigors of a thriving career. Discussing the results of this research will help leaders in nursing, health care, and related professions to understand further the experiences of Black female nurse executives, which will inform efforts to (a) increase minority representation in positions of nursing leadership and (b) improve health equity.
Simplified Septal Stabilization in Closed-Approach Low-Septal-Resection Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty
Authors: Erdal Ayhan Işik , Şibar Serhat
Published: December 2023

Background

Septal fixation is a basic step in low-septal-resection dorsal preservation rhinoplasty. Inadequate septal stabilization can lead to supratip depression or more severe saddle nose deformity. This paper presents a simple surgical maneuver to stabilize quadrangular septal cartilage instead of suture fixation to the anterior nasal spine.

Methods

Thirty patients who underwent closed-approach low-septal-resection dorsal preservation rhinoplasty between July and December 2021 were included in this retrospective study. Depending on the surgical maneuver performed to stabilize quadrangular septal cartilage, the patients were divided into 2 groups as follows: (1) a group in which the septum was stabilized with transfixion sutures (the transfixion suture group) and (2) a group in which the septum was fixed to the anterior nasal spine with suture (the anterior nasal spine suture fixation group). Standardized postoperative 12-month lateral-view photographs were scanned for the presence of supratip depression or saddle nose deformity that may indicate insufficient septum stabilization.

Results

Supratip depression was observed in 1 patient in the transfixion suture group (n = 16) and in 1 patient in the anterior nasal spine suture fixation group (n = 14; P > 0.05). No saddle nose deformity was observed in either group.

Conclusions

Transfixion sutures seem effective in providing septal stabilization to prevent supratip depression or saddle nose deformity in closed-approach low-septal-resection dorsal preservation rhinoplasty. Transfixion sutures can be used for septal stabilization in closed-approach rhinoplasty, allowing the surgeon to take advantage of the ease of placement.
Tumor size>5cm is a line of demarcation of mortality and progression of gastric cancer after D2+gastrectomy for Chinese population
Authors: Li Yifan , Zhao Hanliang , Shi Yinan , Yang Ruirui
Published: December 2023

Methods

Gastric cancer between May 2002 and December 2020 and who had undergone resection of the primary cancer. We analyzed these patients to study the association between survival and tumor size by Cox proportional hazards model and restricted cubic splines.

Results

A total of 1708 patients met the inclusion criteria, with a median age of 58 years. The distribution of tumor size was correlated with patients underwent different D2+ gastrectomy (P<0.001) and located different tumor site(P=0.002). The size of the patient’s tumor is closely related to the patient’s prognosis, as well as the overall survival of patients experienced proximal gastrectomy (P for trend= 0.002) and progression free survival of distal(P for trend= 0.03) and total gastrectomy (P for trend= 0.016) in fully adjusted model. Likewise, tumor size displayed its prognostic predictability in subgroup of upper 1/3, but only for overall survival in final model(P for trend= 0.045). Nonlinear relationship of different tumor size and D2+ gastrectomy or tumor site showed in restricted cubic splines, >5cm showed a significant impact in each group, but not for proximal gastrectomy (P for nonlinear=0.305). Overall survival and progression decreased progressively along with upgrading of tumor size accordingly.

Conclusions

Tumor size>5cm can be seen as a line of demarcation of mortality and progression of gastric cancer after D2+gastrectomy, the hazard ratio began to rise when tumor size large than 5cm.
Effect of Brief Dog-Assisted Interventions on Stress Biomarkers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Faucher Caroline , Behler Anna , Campbell Megan , Thienel Renate
Published: December 2023

Despite the growing popularity of dog-assisted interventions (DAI), limited empirical evidence exists on the effect of this therapeutic approach on biological stress responses. This systematic review focused on single instances of a dog-assisted intervention to specifically assess treatment outcomes on stress biomarkers in participants across the lifespan. A total of 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Cortisol level, blood pressure and heart rate were the most frequently analyzed biomarkers. Evidence to date partially supports the notion that a brief therapeutic intervention with the assistance of a dog may influence the autonomic stress response given that the majority of studies found significant changes in stress biomarkers in groups receiving DAI compared to control groups. However, the present review failed to reach a conclusion regarding the effect of DAI on stress biomarkers within a specific population or settings mostly due to the heterogeneity of the studies. More studies of high quality, and with more transparent and standardized protocols are necessary to further understand the physiological outcomes of DAI in order to develop targeted, evidence-based interventions.
Adaptive epigenetic regulation of neuronal metabolism by a mitochondrial redox signal
Authors: Baeken Marius W. , Kötzner Philipp , Richly Holger , Behl Christian , Moosmann Bernd , Hajieva Parvana
Published: December 2023

Different signaling pathways connect the mitochondrion with the transcriptional machinery in the nucleus. Redox events are thought to play a substantial role along this axis, however, many open questions about their specificity, quantitative importance and mode of action remain. Here, we have employed subtoxic doses of the complex I inhibitor MPP+in human neuronal LUHMES cells to characterize the contribution of scavengeable redox signals to mito-nuclear communication. MPP+evoked a broadly targeted transcriptional induction of nuclear-encoded respiratory chain complex (RCC) subunits. Nanomolar doses of phenothiazine (PHT), a mitochondrially active antioxidant, attenuated these transcriptional effects by approximately half, but did not modulate the bioenergetic markers ATP, NAD+, NADH, lactate, or glucose. Transcriptional induction by MPP+was accompanied by a loss of nuclear 5-methyl-cytosine and an increase in histone H3K14 acetylation, both of which were entirely prevented by PHT. Inhibitor and PHT reversibility experiments suggested that these alterations were mediated by lowered DNMT3B and SIRT1 levels, respectively. Analysis of MPTP-treated mice recapitulated the PHT-reversible induction of histone acetylation and DNMT3B suppression in vivo. Moreover, PHT completely abrogated the statistical significance of the association of MPP+with the selective induction of mitochondrially imported proteins and RCC subunits. We conclude that the mitochondrion employs a redox signal to announce impending, but not yet acute mitochondrial distress to the nucleus, in order to selectively upregulate mito-metabolic genes via chromatin reorganization. Our results have implications for the interpretation of the observed epigenetic changes in Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
TheLegionellacollagen-like protein employs a unique binding mechanism for the recognition of host glycosaminoglycans
Authors: Rehman Saima , Antonovic Anna K. , McIntire Ian E. , Zheng Huaixin , Cleaver Leanne , Adams Carlton O. , Portlock Theo , Richardson Katherine , Shaw Rosie , Oregioni Alain , Mastroianni Giulia , Whittaker Sara B-M , Kelly Geoff , Fornili Arianna , Cianciotto Nicholas P. , Garnett James A.
Published: December 2023

Bacterial adhesion is a fundamental process which enables colonisation of niche environments and is key for infection. However, inLegionella pneumophila, the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease, these processes are not well understood. TheLegionellacollagen-like protein (Lcl) is an extracellular peripheral membrane protein that recognises sulphated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) on the surface of eukaryotic cells, but also stimulates bacterial aggregation in response to divalent cations. Here we report the crystal structure of the Lcl C-terminal domain (Lcl-CTD) and present a model for intact Lcl. Our data reveal that Lcl-CTD forms an unusual dynamic trimer arrangement with a positively charged external surface and a negatively charged solvent exposed internal cavity. Through Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations, we show how the GAG chondroitin-4-sulphate associates with the Lcl-CTD surface via unique binding modes. Our findings show that Lcl homologs are present across both the Pseudomonadota and Fibrobacterota-Chlorobiota-Bacteroidota phyla and suggest that Lcl may represent a versatile carbohydrate binding mechanism.
Proactive and reactive construction of memory-based preferences
Authors: Nicholas Jonathan , Daw Nathaniel D. , Shohamy Daphna
Published: December 2023

We are often faced with decisions we have never encountered before, requiring us to infer possible outcomes before making a choice. Computational theories suggest that one way to make these types of decisions is by accessing and linking related experiences stored in memory. Past work has shown that such memory-based preference construction can occur at a number of different timepoints relative to the moment a decision is made. Some studies have found that memories are integrated at the time a decision is faced (reactively) while others found that memory integration happens earlier, when memories were initially encoded (proactively). Here we offer a resolution to this inconsistency, demonstrating that these two strategies tradeoff rationally as a function of the associative structure of memory. We use fMRI to decode patterns of brain responses unique to categories of images in memory and find that proactive memory access is more common and allows more efficient inference. However, we also find that participants use reactive access when choice options are linked to a larger number of memory associations. Together, these results indicate that the brain judiciously conducts proactive inference by accessing memories ahead of time when conditions make this strategy more favorable.
Geographical variation in dementia: systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Walesby K.E. , Shenkin S.D. , Burton J.K. , Dunlop C. , Fenton C. , Gray D , McGillicuddy L.A. , Starr J.M. , Wilkinson T. , Muniz Terrera G. , Russ T.C.
Published: December 2023

Background

Understanding geographical variation of dementia could highlight important modifiable socio-environmental risk factors. A previous systematic review (2012) identified an increased risk of Alzheimer dementia in rural living in High-Income Countries (HICs), with a dearth of studies in Low to Middle-Income Countries (L-MICs). We updated this review to examine geographical variations in dementia, to encompass the growing number of studies in this field.

Methods

We systematically reviewed the literature for cross-sectional or longitudinal observational studies that compared dementia incidence or prevalence between two or more geographical areas including rural and urban settings.

We conducted a narrative synthesis of included papers. Where possible, we undertook meta-analysis, generating odds ratios for rural versus urban dementia prevalence and stratified the analysis by HICs and L-MICs.

Results

We identified 38 relevant papers, encompassing approximately 98,502,147 people. Twenty-seven papers were included in the quantitative synthesis. Study methodologies varied widely. Dementia rates varied geographically (0.43-38.5%). Overall, rural living was associated with small increased odds of dementia (OR, 1.20, 95% CI 1.03-1.40;Pvalue = 0.0182). Stratification by HICs and L-MICs demonstrated further variation, with increased odds of dementia in rural areas in L-MICs but not HICs.

Conclusions

There is some evidence of geographical variation of dementia. Rural living was associated with small increased odds of dementia, with stratification showing evidence in rural areas of L-MICs but not HICs. We believe this has not been reported previously. Future research must consider life course geographical exposure and addressing heterogeneity in definitions of ‘rural’ and ‘urban.’

What this study adds

We confirm that rural living (compared to urban living) is associated with a small increased odds of dementia (OR 1.20, 95%CI 1.03-1.40). We demonstrate for the first time that this is driven by increased odds of dementia in rural areas in Low to Middle-Income Countries (L-MICs) rather than High Income Countries (HICs), and that the odds of dementia were higher in urban areas in large studies in HICs. Future studies need to carefully consider study setting, method of dementia ascertainment, when exposures may occur, and risk of bias, to understand the role of environment and geography in dementia risk.
Mechanical and corrosion properties of nano ZrC reinforced FeCrAl alloys
Authors: Ma Zhenyu , Zhang Yupeng , An Xuguang , Zhang Jing , Kong Qingquan , Wang Hui , Yao Weitang , Wang Qingyuan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of nano ZrC particles on the mechanical and electrochemical corrosion properties of FeCrAl alloys, providing a beneficial reference basis for the development of high-performance carbide reinforced FeCrAl alloys with good mechanical and corrosion properties in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

Nano ZrC reinforced FeCrAl alloys were prepared by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering. Phases composition, tensile fractography, corrosion morphology and chemical composition of nano ZrC reinforced FeCrAl alloys were analyzed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, respectively. Microhardness and tensile properties of nano ZrC reinforced FeCrAl alloys were investigated by mechanical testing machine and Vickers hardness tester. Electrochemical corrosion properties of nano ZrC reinforced FeCrAl alloys were investigated by electrochemical workstation in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution.

Findings

The results showed that addition of nano ZrC can effectively improve the mechanical and corrosion properties. However, excessive nano ZrC could decrease the mechanical properties and reduce the corrosion resistance. In all the FeCrAl alloys, FeCrAl–0.6 wt.% ZrC alloy exhibits the optimum mechanical properties with an ultimate tensile strength, elongation and hardness of 990.7 MPa, 24.1% and 335.8 HV1, respectively, and FeCrAl–0.2 wt.% ZrC alloy has a lower corrosion potential (−0.179 V) and corrosion current density (2.099 µA/cm2) and larger pitting potential (0.497 V) than other FeCrAl–ZrC alloys, showing a better corrosion resistance.

Originality/value

Adding proper nano ZrC particles can effectively improve the mechanical and corrosion properties, while the excessive nano ZrC is harmful to the mechanical and corrosion properties of FeCrAl alloys, which provides an instruction to develop high-performance FeCrAl cladding materials.
Construction of the new development dynamic and development of digital economy: internal logic and policy focus
Authors: Yang Hutao
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The integration of the digital economy and the real economy has been a key focus in promoting digital economic development. It denotes a comprehensive digital transformation of national economic activities regarding technological infrastructure and production modes, which is crucial for establishing a modern economic system, advancing industrial infrastructure and modernizing industrial chains.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the study delves into the internal logic behind the emergence of the new development dynamic resulting from digital technology's evolution. Secondly, it explores the mechanism of mutual promotion and support between the new development dynamic and the digital economy based on China's shift in focus from international engagement to the domestic economy during different stages of industrialization. Subsequently, it analyzes the characteristics and critical factors of digital economy development and examines the macro-, meso- and micro-level constraints on these factors. Finally, the paper explores approaches to promoting digital economy development while constructing the new development dynamic and provides relevant policy suggestions.

Findings

The construction of the new development dynamic and the development of the digital economy are inextricably linked, and only by mutually reinforcing each other can they provide an inexhaustible impetus for China's high-quality economic development.

Originality/value

The new development dynamic and the digital economy development form an indivisible whole. The new development dynamic creates the necessary conditions for digital economy development and promotes the formation of digital production modes. In turn, the development of the digital economy should strive to improve the mainstay position of the domestic economy, enhance the synergy between the domestic economy and international engagement, upgrade value chains while improving the supply and the industrial chains in China and ensure a parallel increase in labor income alongside improved productivity.
Artificial night‐time lighting and nutrient enrichment synergistically favour the growth of alien ornamental plant species over co‐occurring native plants
Authors: Kawawa Abonyo Calvince R. , Oduor Ayub M. O.
Published: December 2023

Insights into ecological drivers of alien plant invasions can be gained through comparative studies of growth and fecundity of invasive alien plants versus those of co‐occurring non‐invasive alien plants and native plants across environmental conditions in common garden settings. Habitats that harbour alien plant species in many ecosystems globally are presently experiencing light pollution resulting from artificial light at night (ALAN) and increased rates of nutrient enrichment of the soil. However, the potential interactive effects of ALAN and nutrient enrichment on invasiveness of alien plant species remain unknown.

Here, we performed a common‐garden experiment to test the interactive effects of ALAN and soil nutrient enrichment on the growth of a random set of ten alien (five invasive and five non‐invasive naturalized) and seven co‐occurring native ornamental plant species that are commonly cultivated within urban and peri‐urban areas of Nairobi city in Kenya. We predicted that a simultaneous increase in photoperiod via ALAN and nutrient enrichment will favour growth of invasive alien plant species over that of non‐invasive alien and native plant species. We grew the 17 plant species under natural daylight (ALAN−) versus natural daylight followed by ALAN (ALAN+) and fully crossed with two levels of nutrient enrichment (low vs. high) and competition (competition vs. no‐competition against a native plant Ocimum gratissimum) treatments.

Under simultaneous high‐nutrient and no‐competition treatments, ALAN enhanced mean total biomass of invasive and non‐invasive naturalized alien species by 61.1% and 131.4%, respectively but decreased that of native plant species by 34%. In contrast, under simultaneous high‐nutrient and competition treatments, ALAN enhanced mean total biomass of invasive alien plant species by 68.6% and that of non‐invasive naturalized alien species by 51.9% and native species by 35.4%. High‐nutrient treatment enhanced flower formation more strongly in invasive and non‐invasive naturalized alien plants than in native plants. The invasive and non‐invasive naturalized alien species grew taller than native species across the light, nutrient, and competition treatments.

Synthesis: The present findings suggest that light pollution and nutrient enrichment may jointly confer growth advantage to invasive alien plant species over that of co‐occurring native plant species and enhance invasiveness of alien plant species.
Preparation of W/O/W Lactiplantibacillus plantarumL3 microcapsules using modified low methoxy pectin as wall materials and their application in simulated yoghurt fermentation systems
Authors: Qi Fuling , Zhu Jiayi , Li Mengyang , Ren Jing , Hu Yingxi , Sun Qingshen
Published: December 2023

This work aimed to characterise water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (W/O/W) microcapsules loading Lactiplantibacillus plantarum L3 in a simulated fermentation and storage process for yoghurt, providing support for their potential application in complex fermented milk systems. The encapsulating efficiency of microencapsulated L. plantarum L3 with modified pectin was 96.79%, the aerobic plate count was 7.83 log cfu/g after simulated gastrointestinal treatment. The microencapsulated L. plantarum L3 delayed the post‐acidification of MRS medium. The cell‐free supernatant produced during the MRS storage period had a bacteriostatic effect. W/O/W microcapsules showed great prospects for application as a probiotics carrier in dairy products.
Optimizing quality and mixing performance of processed cheese spread using a mechanical universal disperser
Authors: Datir Rupesh Prabhudas , Ravindra Menon Rekha , Manjunatha M. , Sharma Monika
Published: December 2023

Processed cheese spread (PCS) is currently experiencing rapid growth and is recognised as a prominent segment within the cheese‐based product industry worldwide. This type of cheese spread is produced by comminuting and blending natural cheese of varying ages and degrees of maturity, along with other ingredients, to achieve a homogeneous plastic mass. The high viscosity of PCS necessitates thorough mixing and blending, posing a challenge for cheese processors. In this study, a mechanical unit known as a universal disperser was utilised to prepare PCS. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of different processing parameters on the quality of the final product. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to design the experiment and optimise the process accordingly. The experiment involved conducting trials at three distinct melting temperatures: 50, 65 and 80 °C. The impeller speed used for blending the content was set at three levels: 10 000, 15 000 and 20 000 r.p.m. Responses, such as mixing index, mixing time, power consumption, spreadability, and overall acceptability, were recorded. Based on the findings, it was concluded that by employing the optimal parameters, a high‐quality PCS with a desirable overall acceptability score of 8.3 could be achieved while also meeting the desired mixing performance.
Advances in commingled human remains analysis between 2014 and 2023
Authors: Palmiotto Andrea , Maijanen Heli , LeGarde Carrie B. , Ingvoldstad Megan
Published: December 2023

This study reviews recent advances in osteometric, genetic, geochemical, and digital modeling applications since 2014 to demonstrate the expanded range of analyses and skeletal elements that can be used to separate individuals from commingled contexts. While traditional methods remain foundational to commingling resolution, new advances allow increased individuation, identification of human versus non‐human remains, and an amplified scale of assemblages that can be analyzed. This summary offers ways for practitioners to consider the juxtaposition of analytical goals, time, financial concerns, and methods when managing commingled assemblages. Forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology case studies illustrate differences related to application of methods in terms of recovery environments, project goals, and recovered materials. Whether the goal is to isolate and individuate only major elements or as many bones as possible, in nearly all cases, it is best practice to combine several types of methods to fulfill the project scope within the established parameters. This review can help practitioners identify the most appropriate analytical protocols and methods for their projects.
Whatever Happened to the Australian Role in the Global Nuclear Energy Partnership?
Authors: Reynolds Wayne
Published: December 2023

In 2003, Iraq was invaded, ostensibly to remove a nuclear threat, by a coalition led by George W. Bush. At the same time select allies were invitited to participate in Bush's Global Nuclear Energy Partnership which aimed to limit the spread of nuclear enrichment and reprocessing. This came as climate change gave emphasis to the development of nuclear energy, especially in Asia. With an abundant supply of uranium and strict nuclear safeguards, Australia was well placed to provide a site for the full suite of nuclear services. The recent AUKUS nuclear submarine agreement has underscored its failure to do so. This article makes the case for the adoption of nuclear power as a necessary step in the development of advanced manufacturing; the provision of a domestic capability to fuel nuclear attack submarines and other naval craft; and as a contribution to global nuclear non‐proliferation.
A queer footnote
Authors: Hegarty Benjamin
Published: December 2023

Anthropological accounts of sexual and gendered difference often serve the role of footnotes that buttress and even expand the reach of Euro‐American concepts. In contrast to this contained role for anthropology, queer footnotes can push the discipline toward more capacious and experimental engagements with powerful knowledge. In 2020, governments around the world introduced lockdowns and border‐control measures in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic. This was the case in Australia, where I undertook fieldwork with trans‐ and queer Indonesians living in Melbourne. In Australia, COVID‐19 public health measures paralleled and exacerbated migration restrictions on people living with HIV and the criminalization of sex work. Asian, queer, trans‐, and sex worker bodies were addressed as a moral and physiological contagion. Queer anthropology is good for maintaining a critical ethnographic focus on how the state governs through a racial biopolitics of containment, and generates concepts for public health that shift the focus from security to care.
Anthropology at sea
Authors: Dua Jatin
Published: December 2023

Ethnography remains central as a form and location of knowledge production in anthropology. Given this weaving together of ethnography and anthropology, to ask, what good is anthropology?, is also to ask, what good is ethnography? Taking apart two of the guiding metaphors for ethnography—fieldwork and immersion—allows us to explore a distinction that undergirds them: that between land and sea. While the field in fieldwork has been heavily theorized, immersion often appears as a metaphor to signal anthropological legitimacy. But for those who are at sea, immersion is not just metaphor but materiality. For objects to be immersed at sea requires an understanding of displacement and buoyancy. Beyond dislocation, displacement produces the buoyancy essential to navigation. Thinking through this principle allows for an ethnographic practice attuned not only to the frictions of contemporary life but also to how displacement moves forward, in unequal and haphazard ways, but forward, nonetheless.
Targeting persistent fatigue with tailored versus generic self‐management strategies in adolescents and young adults with a fatigue syndrome or rheumatic condition: A randomized crossover trial
Authors: Vroegindeweij Anouk , Wulffraat Nico M. , Van De Putte Elise M. , De Jong Hanne B. T. , Lucassen Desiree A. , Swart Joost F. , Nijhof Sanne L.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the use of two self‐management intervention strategies for persistent fatigue in adolescents and young adults with a fatigue syndrome or rheumatic condition.

Design

A randomized crossover trial administering tailored lifestyle advice and generic dietary advice, each 12 weeks, with a four‐week washout period between.

Methods

Sixty participants (aged 12–29) were included. Tailoring was achieved through the PROfeel method. Dietary guidelines were conceptualized by the Netherlands Nutrition Centre. Questionnaires were used pre–post‐interventions to measure primary outcome ‘fatigue severity’ (Checklist Individual Strength‐8) and secondary outcomes ‘self‐efficacy’ (Self‐Efficacy Scale‐28) and ‘quality of life’ (QoL) (Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0). Feasibility and adherence were self‐rated on a scale of 1 to 10 (low to high). Linear mixed modelling was used to assess change over time, compare strategy effectiveness and study the impact of intervention order.

Results

Fatigue severity, self‐efficacy and QoL regarding ‘physical’ and ‘emotional’ functioning improved significantly over time (all p < .015). The average improvement of the two QoL subscales was clinically relevant, as was the fatigue improvement in 20 out of 46 participants who completed the trial and 5 dropouts. The interventions were equally effective, and intervention order did not impact the improvement level (prange = .242–.984). The self‐management strategies received similar feasibility (M = 6.45, SD = 1.91) and adherence (M = 7.67, SD = 1.67) ratings.

Conclusions

As small to clinically relevant improvements were observed, self‐management strategies might be particularly useful to bridge waiting time for guided treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Incidence and outcomes of fever of unknown origin after kidney transplant in the modern era
Authors: Jorgenson Margaret R. , Parajuli Sandesh , Kleiboeker Hanna L. , Felix Daniel C. , Astor Brad C. , Saddler Christopher M. , Smith Jeannina A. , Mandelbrot Didier A.
Published: December 2023

Background

While presumably less common with modern molecular diagnostic and imaging techniques, fever of unknown origin (FUO) remains a challenge in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). Additionally, the impact of FUO on patient and graft survival is poorly described.

Methods

A cohort of adult KTRs between January 1, 1995 and December 31, 2018 was followed at the University of Wisconsin Hospital. Patients transplanted from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2005 were included in the “early era”; patients transplanted from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2018 were included in the “modern era”. The primary objective was to describe the epidemiology and etiology of FUO diagnoses over time. Secondary outcomes included rejection, graft and patient survival.

Results

There were 5590 kidney transplants at our center during the study window. FUO was identified in 323 patients with an overall incidence rate of .8/100 person‐years. Considering only the first 3 years after transplant, the incidence of FUO was significantly lower in the modern era than in the early era, with an Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) per 100 person‐years of .48; 95% CI: .35–.63; p < .001. A total of 102 (31.9%) of 323 patients had an etiology determined within 90 days after FUO diagnosis: 100 were infectious, and two were malignancies. In the modern era, FUO remained significantly associated with rejection (HR = 44.1; 95% CI: 16.6–102; p < .001) but not graft failure (HR = 1.21; 95% CI: .68–2.18; p = .52) total graft loss (HR = 1.17; 95% CI: .85–1.62; p = .34), or death (HR = 1.17; 95% CI: .79–1.76; p = .43.

Conclusions:

FUO is less common in KTRs during the modern era. Our study suggests infection remains the most common etiology. FUO remains associated with significant increases in risk of rejection, warranting further inquiry into the management of immunosuppressive medications in SOT recipients in the setting of FUO.
Coparenting and intimate partner violence
Authors: Hardesty Jennifer L. , Ogolsky Brian G. , Akinbode Tanitoluwa D.
Published: December 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major public health issue across the globe due to its associations with health and wellbeing, especially among mothers and children. These associations are often more pronounced following separation or divorce, which can compromise safety given that women and children are at heightened risk during these transitions. Thus, it is critical to understand the implications of coparenting in the context of IPV. In this paper, we first discuss the literature on IPV broadly. In particular, we discuss the differences between two types of violence: coercive controlling violence (i.e., violence that occurs in the context of systematic control) and situational couple violence (i.e., violence that occurs without a pattern of control). We then link it to parenting and coparenting processes as they relate to separation and divorce. In this section, we focus heavily on the ways in which the legal system affects family dynamics as divorces make their way through the courts. Special attention is paid to the ways in which IPV affects child custody decisions and the safety of those decisions given empirical evidence suggesting that raising allegations of IPV often does not help achieve favorable court outcomes. We conclude with recommendations to guide family court practitioners based upon this substantial literature. Such recommendations center on the development and implementation of empirically‐derived assessment tools as well as systematic training of legal professionals.