bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous Eye Blinks Map the Probability of Perceptual Reinterpretation During Visual and Auditory Ambiguity
Authors: Murali Supriya , Händel Barbara
Published: February 2024

Spontaneous eye blinks are modulated around perceptual events. Our previous study, using a visual ambiguous stimulus, indicated that blink probability decreases before a reported perceptual switch. In the current study, we tested our hypothesis that an absence of blinks marks a time in which perceptual switches are facilitated in‐ and outside the visual domain. In three experiments, presenting either a visual motion quartet in light or darkness or a bistable auditory streaming stimulus, we found a co‐occurrence of blink rate reduction with increased perceptual switch probability. In the visual domain, perceptual switches induced by a short interruption of visual input (blank) allowed an estimate of the timing of the perceptual event with respect to the motor response. This provided the first evidence that the blink reduction was not a consequence of the perceptual switch. Importantly, by showing that the time between switches and the previous blink was significantly longer than the inter‐blink interval, our studies allowed to conclude that perceptual switches did not happen at random but followed a prolonged period of nonblinking. Correspondingly, blink rate and switch rate showed an inverse relationship. Our study supports the idea that the absence or presence of blinks maps perceptual processes independent of the sensory modality.
Natural dyeing of plasma treated wool with avocado seed extract and use of tartaric acid as bio‐mordant
Authors: Üren Nazlı , Kutlu Bengi
Published: February 2024

In this study, surface modification of wool fabrics by oxygen plasma was carried out to enhance colour, dyeability and fastness properties. Avocado (Persea americana) seed was selected as the natural dye source, plasma activated wool samples were dyed with the extracted colourant and tartaric acid (10% and 20% owf) was used for simultaneous mordanting. All samples exhibited very good washing and dry rubbing fastness grades. It was observed that plasma treated samples have darker and more saturated colours with a persistent hue and increased wet rubbing fastness grades. Applying plasma treatment and using tartaric acid as bio‐mordant provided a noticeable increase in chroma and colour strength, and a slight improvement in fastness to light. Effect of pH of the dye bath on dyeability and the bio‐mordant role of tartaric acid were also investigated for four mordant concentrations (2%, 5%, 10% and 20% owf), and it was detected that using 5% owf or higher concentrations of tartaric acid provided different colour characteristics and dyeability when compared to the dye solutions prepared with inorganic acid. Based on findings of the study, it was concluded that modifying the fabric surface by oxygen plasma can be used to enhance the dyeing performance without causing a major change in the characteristic hue of the colourant extracted from avocado seeds. The use of tartaric acid ‐ solitary or accompanied with plasma treatment ‐ to increase the affinity between the colouring matter and the fibre was also recommended.
Cognitive deficits and enhancements in youth from adverse conditions: An integrative assessment using Drift Diffusion Modeling in the ABCD study
Authors: Vermeent Stefan , Young Ethan S. , DeJoseph Meriah L. , Schubert Anna‐Lena , Frankenhuis Willem E.
Published: February 2024

Childhood adversity can lead to cognitive deficits or enhancements, depending on many factors. Though progress has been made, two challenges prevent us from integrating and better understanding these patterns. First, studies commonly use and interpret raw performance differences, such as response times, which conflate different stages of cognitive processing. Second, most studies either isolate or aggregate abilities, obscuring the degree to which individual differences reflect task‐general (shared) or task‐specific (unique) processes. We addressed these challenges using Drift Diffusion Modeling (DDM) and structural equation modeling (SEM). Leveraging a large, representative sample of 9–10 year‐olds from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, we examined how two forms of adversity—material deprivation and household threat—were associated with performance on tasks measuring processing speed, inhibition, attention shifting, and mental rotation. Using DDM, we decomposed performance on each task into three distinct stages of processing: speed of information uptake, response caution, and stimulus encoding/response execution. Using SEM, we isolated task‐general and task‐specific variances in each processing stage and estimated their associations with the two forms of adversity. Youth with more exposure to household threat (but not material deprivation) showed slower task‐general processing speed, but showed intact task‐specific abilities. In addition, youth with more exposure to household threat tended to respond more cautiously in general. These findings suggest that traditional assessments might overestimate the extent to which childhood adversity reduces specific abilities. By combining DDM and SEM approaches, we can develop a more nuanced understanding of how adversity affects different aspects of youth's cognitive performance.

Research Highlight

To understand how childhood adversity shapes cognitive abilities, the field needs analytical approaches that can jointly document and explain patterns of lowered and enhanced performance.

Using Drift Diffusion Modeling and Structural Equation Modeling, we analyzed associations between adversity and processing speed, inhibition, attention shifting, and mental rotation.

Household threat, but not material deprivation, was mostly associated with slower task‐general processing speed and more response caution. In contrast, task‐specific abilities were largely intact.

Researchers might overestimate the impact of childhood adversity on specific abilities and underestimate the impact on general processing speed and response caution using traditional measures.
Effects of pericardiocentesis on renal function and cardiac hemodynamics
Authors: Shmueli Hezzy , Shah Maulin , Patel Yatindra , Nguyen Long‐Co , Hardy Hannah , Rader Florian , Siegel Robert J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Previous case studies have reported reversal of acute renal failure after pericardiocentesis in pericardial effusion. This study examines the effects of pericardiocentesis on preprocedural low cardiac output and acute renal dysfunction in patients with pericardial effusion.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 95 patients undergoing pericardiocentesis between 2015 and 2020. Pre‐ and post‐procedure transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) were reviewed for evidence of cardiac tamponade, resolution of pericardial effusion, and for estimation of right atrial (RA) pressure and cardiac output. Laboratory values were compared at presentation and post‐procedure. Patients on active renal replacement therapy were excluded.

Results

Ninety‐five patients were included for analysis (mean age 62.2 ± 17.8 years, 58% male). There was a significant increase in glomerular filtration rate pre‐ and post‐procedure. Fifty‐six patients (58.9%) had an improvement in glomerular filtration rate after pericardiocentesis (termed “responders”), and these patients had a lower pre‐procedure glomerular filtration rate than “non‐responders.” There was a significant improvement in estimated cardiac output and right atrial pressure for patients in both groups. Patients who had an improvement in renal function had significantly lower pre‐procedural diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure.

Conclusions

Pericardial drainage may improve effusion‐mediated acute renal dysfunction by reducing right atrial pressure and thus systemic venous congestion, and by increasing forward stroke volume and perfusion pressure.
Invasion of an Afrotemperate forest complex by the polyphagous shot hole borer beetle
Authors: Townsend G. , van Rooyen E. , Hill M. , De Beer W. , Roets F.
Published: February 2024

The polyphagous shot hole borer (PSHB), Euwallacea fornicatus Eichhoff (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae), is a significant tree‐killing pest recently introduced into South Africa. Many native trees in urban settings are susceptible to infestation, but the presence of PSHB in natural ecosystems is unstudied. The presence and drivers of PSHB colonization in 1682 trees of 68 species were evaluated in 51 plots across a native Afrotemperate forest complex in South Africa. Breeding colonies of PSHB were found in six native species (breeding hosts). An additional 11 species did not contain PSHB colonies but hosted its mutualistic fungus Fusarium euwallaceae Freeman et al. (Hypocreales: Nectriaceae). Invasibility increased when plots were closer to the urban infestation border, further away from surface water, and when containing a larger number of breeding hosts. Invasibility decreased with an increase in tree species richness. Polyphagous shot hole borers were found in climax forest distant to urban areas at sites frequented by tourists. The severity of infestation of trees increased with an increase in host diameter, breeding host abundance, and infested tree abundance. Probability of infestation increased with an increase in the number of infested trees. Infested trees were not spatially clumped. Instead, PSHB preferentially selected eight of the 17 native host species. And the data suggest that larger trees of these species may be more susceptible to PSHB. Eight species were infested at random and two were infested seemingly accidentally. Infestations increased more rapidly on larger trees and on those surrounded by a high abundance of breeding hosts. This study confirms that Afrotemperate forests are highly susceptible to invasion by PSHB. Direct anthropogenic impact had no discernible effect on infestations, but humans aided spread of PSHB to distant sites. Halting movement of contaminated wood is important. Management of PSHB should focus on highly infested areas and trees as these increase the likelihood of further and more severe infestations.
Multi‐generation genetic contributions of immigrants reveal cryptic elevated and sex‐biased effective gene flow within a natural meta‐population
Authors: Reid Jane M. , Dickel Lisa , Keller Lukas F. , Nietlisbach Pirmin , Arcese Peter
Published: February 2024

Impacts of immigration on micro‐evolution and population dynamics fundamentally depend on net rates and forms of resulting gene flow into recipient populations. Yet, the degrees to which observed rates and sex ratios of physical immigration translate into multi‐generational genetic legacies have not been explicitly quantified in natural meta‐populations, precluding inference on how movements translate into effective gene flow and eco‐evolutionary outcomes. Our analyses of three decades of complete song sparrow (Melospiza melodia) pedigree data show that multi‐generational genetic contributions from regular natural immigrants substantially exceeded those from contemporary natives, consistent with heterosis‐enhanced introgression. However, while contributions from female immigrants exceeded those from female natives by up to three‐fold, male immigrants' lineages typically went locally extinct soon after arriving. Both the overall magnitude, and the degree of female bias, of effective gene flow therefore greatly exceeded those which would be inferred from observed physical arrivals, altering multiple eco‐evolutionary implications of immigration.
Evaluation of the concomitant use of prophylactic treatments in patients with migraine under anti‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide therapies: The PREVENAC study
Authors: Gago‐Veiga Ana Beatriz , Lopez‐Alcaide Noelia , Quintas Sonia , Fernández Lázaro Iris , Casas‐Limón Javier , Calle Carlos , Latorre Germán , González‐García Nuria , Porta‐Etessam Jesús , Rodriguez‐Vico Jaime , Jaimes Alex , Gómez García Andrea , García‐Azorín David , Guerrero‐Peral Ángel Luis , Sierra Álvaro , Lozano Ros Alberto , Sánchez‐Soblechero Antonio , Díaz‐de‐Teran Javier , Membrilla Javier A. , Treviño Cristina , Gonzalez‐Martinez Alicia
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose

Anti‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) therapies are recent preventive therapies approved for both episodic and chronic migraine. One of the measures of effectiveness is the withdrawal of other preventive treatments. The objective of this study is to quantify the impact of anti‐CGRP drugs in concomitant preventive treatment in patients with migraine.

Methods

This was an observational, retrospective, multicenter cohort study with patients from nine national headache units. Patients with migraine undergoing treatment for at least 6 months with anti‐CGRP antibodies, who were initially associated with some preventive treatment (oral and/or onabotulinumtoxinA) were included. Demographic and clinical variables were collected, as well as variables related to headache. Differences according to withdrawal or nonwithdrawal were evaluated.

Results

A total of 408 patients were included, 86.52% women, 48.79 (SD = 1.46) years old. Preventive treatment was withdrawn in 43.87% (179/408), 20.83% partially and 23.04% totally. In 27.45% (112/408), it was maintained exclusively due to comorbidity and in 28.6% (117/408) due to partial efficacy. The most frequent time of withdrawal was between 3 and 5 months after the start of treatment. The baseline characteristics associated with nonwithdrawal were comorbidities: insomnia, hypertension and obesity, chronic migraine, and medication overuse. In the multivariate analysis, the absence of high blood pressure, a greater number of preventive treatments at the start, and a lower number of migraine days/month after anti‐CGRP treatment were independently associated with withdrawal of the treatment (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Anti‐CGRP antibodies allow the withdrawal of associated preventive treatment in a significant percentage of patients, which supports its effectiveness in real‐life conditions.
The Australian National University Alzheimer's Disease Risk Index (ANU‐ADRI) score as a predictor for cognitive decline and potential surrogate outcome in the FINGER lifestyle randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hall Anette , Barbera Mariagnese , Lehtisalo Jenni , Antikainen Riitta , Huque Hamidul , Laatikainen Tiina , Ngandu Tiia , Soininen Hilkka , Stephen Ruth , Strandberg Timo , Kivipelto Miia , Anstey Kaarin J. , Solomon Alina
Published: February 2024

Background and purpose

The complex aetiology of Alzheimer's disease suggests prevention potential. Risk scores have potential as risk stratification tools and surrogate outcomes in multimodal interventions targeting specific at‐risk populations. The Australian National University Alzheimer's Disease Risk Index (ANU‐ADRI) was tested in relation to cognition and its suitability as a surrogate outcome in a multidomain lifestyle randomized controlled trial, in older adults at risk of dementia.

Methods

In this post hoc analysis of the Finnish Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER), ANU‐ADRI was calculated at baseline, 12, and 24 months (n = 1174). The association between ANU‐ADRI and cognition (at baseline and over time), the intervention effect on changes in ANU‐ADRI, and the potential impact of baseline ANU‐ADRI on the intervention effect on changes in cognition were assessed using linear mixed models with maximum likelihood estimation.

Results

A higher ANU‐ADRI was significantly related to worse cognition, at baseline (e.g., estimate for global cognition [95% confidence interval] was −0.028 [−0.032 to −0.025]) and over the 2‐year study (e.g., estimate for 2‐year changes in ANU‐ADRI and per‐year changes in global cognition [95% confidence interval] was −0.068 [−0.026 to −0.108]). No significant beneficial intervention effect was reported for ANU‐ADRI, and baseline ANU‐ADRI did not significantly affect the response to the intervention on changes in cognition.

Conclusions

The ANU‐ADRI was effective for the risk prediction of cognitive decline. Risk scores may be crucial for the success of novel dementia prevention strategies, but their algorithm, the target population, and the intervention design should be carefully considered when choosing the appropriate tool for each context.
Infection‐related sexual conflict in mating behaviors of wolf spiders
Authors: Bauer‐Nilsen Olivia , McConnell Megan , Uetz George
Published: February 2024

Resistance to mating by females has been hypothesized as a tactic to assess potential mates and avoid undesirable ones. Previous studies show infection with the pathogenic bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, triggers a costly immune response and negatively impacts fitness in the wolf spider Schizocosa ocreata (Hentz 1844). Studies also show that infection can be transmitted during copulation, suggesting that there are potential fitness costs associated with mating with an infected individual. We examined impacts of infection on mating interactions of male and female S. ocreata. As studies show infection can be detected through chemical cues, we tested whether males or females avoid mating with infected individuals when given the opportunity. We paired infected and uninfected (control) males and females and recorded their behavior. We found that mating outcome was independent of infection for males and females. While higher male courtship rates and more frequent female receptivity displays were associated with successful mating, we saw no direct effect of infection status on mating outcome. However, among spider pairs that did not mate, females were found to be significantly more resistant and aggressive toward infected males than control males. Male aggression, on the other hand, was greater in pairs that did result in mating. These results suggest that sexual conflict in mating can be related to infection status, and that females can recognize infected males and alter their behavior in response.
Minimizing observer bias in animal behavior studies revisited: Improvement, but a long way to go
Authors: Freeberg Todd M. , Benson Scott A. , Burghardt Gordon M.
Published: February 2024

For decades, texts on methods in animal behavior research have stressed the need for observers of behavior to work to minimize potential unconscious biases in their coding of data. Two major ways of minimizing these biases are to carry out data coding blind to the key comparisons being made in the study and to have high inter‐observer reliability. Over 10 years ago, Burghardt et al. (2012, Ethology, 118, 511) reviewed five major journals in the field of animal behavior and coded randomly selected articles from five decadal volumes (1970 to 2010). That earlier article found poor rates of reporting these two common methods for minimizing potential biases. Here, we carried out similar coding for the 2020 volumes from those same five journals. We found that rates of reporting have increased in all five journals – some substantially. However, rates of reporting still lag behind the journal Infancy, which publishes research on human infant development and relies on many of the same behavioral observation and coding methods used by animal behavior researchers. Given increased calls for transparency and reproducibility in many different fields of scientific study, we argue that we – researchers, reviewers, and editors – can and need to do better at making sure we are actively conducting research in ways to minimize potential observer biases.
Anti‐PD‐1 immunotherapy with adjuvant ablative fractional laser displays increased tumour clearance of squamous cell carcinoma, a murine study
Authors: Christensen Rikke Louise , Wiinberg Martin , Lerche Catharina Margrethe , Demehri Shadmehr , Olesen Uffe Høgh , Haedersdal Merete
Published: February 2024

PD‐1 checkpoint inhibitors are used as systemic immunotherapy for locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC); however, improved treatment efficacy is urgently needed. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of combining systemic anti‐PD‐1 treatment with adjuvant ablative fractional laser (AFL) in a spontaneous SCC mouse model. Tumours induced by ultraviolet radiation in the strain C3.Cg‐Hrhr/TifBomTac were divided into four groups: anti‐PD‐1‐antibody+AFL (n = 33), AFL alone (n = 22) anti‐PD‐1‐antibody alone (n = 31) and untreated controls (n = 46). AFL was given at Day 0 (100 mJ/mb, 5% density), while anti‐PD‐1‐antibody (ip, 200 μg) at Days 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8. Response to treatment was evaluated by tumour growth, survival time and by dividing response to treatment into complete responders (clinically cleared tumours), partial responders (reduced tumour growth rate compared to untreated controls) and non‐responders (no decrease in tumour growth rate compared to untreated controls). The strongest tumour response was observed following the combination of systemic anti‐PD‐1 treatment combined with laser exposure, resulting in the highest percentage of complete responders (24%) compared with untreated controls (0%, p < 0.01), AFL monotherapy (13%, p > 0.05) and anti‐PD‐1‐antibody monotherapy (3%, p > 0.05). Moreover, all three treatment interventions demonstrated significantly reduced tumour growth rates compared with untreated controls (p < 0.01), and the mice had significantly longer survival times (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the combination treatment revealed an improved treatment effect that significantly enhanced the complete tumour clearance not observed with the monotherapies, indicating a possible additive effect of anti‐PD‐1 with adjuvant AFL in treatment of SCC.
Increased neutrophil‐derived IL‐17A identified in generalized pustular psoriasis
Authors: Lan Yu , Wu Xiaoyan , Zhong Xinyu , Song Pengfei , Liu Leying , Liu Yuhua , Ai Xuechen , Han Changxu , Zhang Zhenying
Published: February 2024

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is considered to be a distinct clinical entity from psoriasis vulgaris (PV), with different clinical and histological manifestations. The pathogenesis of GPP has not been thoroughly elucidated, especially in those patients lacking interleukin (IL)36RN. In present study, we performed RNA sequence analysis on skin lesions from 10 GPP patients (4 with and 6 without IL36RN mutation) and 10 PV patients without IL36RN mutation. Compared with PV, significantly overexpressed genes in GPP patients were enriched in IL‐17 signalling pathway (MMP1, MMP3, DEFB4A and DEFB4B, etc.) and associated with neutrophil infiltration (MMP1, MMP3, ANXA and SERPINB, etc.). GPP with IL36RN mutations evidenced WNT11 upregulation and IL36RN downregulation in comparison to those GPP without IL36RN mutations. The expression of IL‐17A/IL‐36 in skin or serum and the origin of IL‐17A in skin were also investigated. IL‐17A expression in skin was significantly higher in GPP than PV patients, whereas, there were no differences in skin IL‐36α/IL‐36γ/IL‐36RA or serum IL‐17A/IL‐36α/IL‐36γ between GPP than PV. Besides, double immunofluorescence staining of MPO/IL‐17A or CD3/IL‐17A further confirmed that the majority of IL‐17A in GPP skin was derived from neutrophils, but not T cells. These data emphasized the role of neutrophil‐derived IL‐17A in the pathogenesis of GPP with or without IL36RN mutations. Targeting neutrophil‐derived IL‐17A might be a promising treatment for GPP.
Dyadic relationship of adult attachment patterns and interpersonal schemas in marital adjustment: Actor–partner effect model
Authors: Uluyol Fatma Mahperi , Özen‐Çıplak Ayça
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study examined the associations between romantic attachment and relationship satisfaction as mediated by interp ersonal schemas (friendly × hostile) with Turkish couples.

Background

Previous studies showed that adult romantic attachment is strongly associated with couple relationship functioning, and many efforts have been made to identify the mechanisms underlying this link. However, no study has considered interpersonal schemas when investigating the connection between romantic attachment and marital adjustment in couples.

Method

In total, 230 Turkish married couples completed measures of interpersonal schemas, adult attachment, and marital adjustment.

Results

Attachment anxiety is indirectly related to marital adjustment in couples via interpersonal schemas. However, attachment avoidance is both directly and indirectly related to marital adjustment via interpersonal schemas. Whereas friendly schemas are related to attachment anxiety negatively, hostile schemas are related to both attachment anxiety and avoidance positively.

Conclusion

The current study extended previous research by providing evidence concerning the influence of each partner's attachment dimension on the interpersonal schemas and marital adjustment of both spouses.

Implications

In romantic relationships being aware of the impact of interpersonal cycles on dyadic adjustment in clinical settings can help therapists shape their strategies in therapy sessions.
Paleogenomic insights into cooperation in the ancient Andes from positive selection on oxytocin pathway genes
Authors: Joseph Sophie K. , Wagman Elizabeth , Diab Nabeel , Ryu Nicholas , Lee Minwoo , Haas Randall , Rilling James K. , Aldenderfer Mark S. , Lindo John
Published: February 2024

Human societies are characterized by norms that restrict selfish behavior and promote cooperation. The oxytocin system is an important modulator of social behavior that may be involved in the evolution of cooperation. Oxytocin acts in both the nucleus accumbens and the anterior cingulate cortex to promote social bonding and social cohesion. Expression of the CD38 and OXTR genes is known to affect oxytocin secretion and binding, respectively, in these brain areas. The Andean highlands provide an excellent opportunity to evaluate the role of oxytocin in the evolution of cooperation. The rich archeological record spans 13,000 years of population growth and cooperative challenges through periods of highland exploration, hunting economies, agro‐pastoralism, and urbanization. Through allele trajectory modeling using both ancient and contemporary whole genomes, we find evidence for strong positive selection on the OXTR and CD38 alleles linked with increased oxytocin signaling. These selection events commenced around 2.5 and 1.25 thousand years ago, placing them in the region's Upper Formative and Tiwanaku periods—a time of population growth, urbanization, and relatively low rates of violence. Along with remarkable and enduring cultural developments, increased oxytocin secretion and receptor binding in these brain areas may have facilitated large‐scale cooperation that promoted early urbanization in the Titicaca Basin of the Andean highlands.
Prognostic value of the geriatric nutritional risk index and other hematological markers on long‐term survival in the geriatric population
Authors: da Costa Pereira Jarson Pedro , da Silva Diniz Alcides , de Lemos Maria Conceição Chaves , Ramiro Cláudia Porto Sabino Pinho , Cabral Poliana Coelho
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The prognostic value of hematological markers has not been extensively explored in the geriatric population, particularly in the presence of the frailty phenotype among hospitalized individuals. Therefore, our study aimed to assess the influence of the frailty phenotype in hospitalized geriatric individuals on hematological markers and their impact on short‐ and long‐term outcomes.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study. This study involved hospitalized individuals who were followed during their hospitalization and for nearly 2 years after discharge. At baseline, Fried's frailty phenotype was assessed, as well as hematological markers, including neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, monocyte–lymphocyte ratio, neutrophil–monocyte ratio, platelet–lymphocyte ratio, systemic inflammation index, prognostic nutritional index, geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI), and C‐reactive protein–albumin ratio. The phase angle derived from bioelectrical impedance analysis was likewise considered a prognostic biomarker. Our main outcomes were hospital length of stay and mortality during follow‐up.

Results

Frailty occurred in 43.2% of the population. Individuals with the frailty phenotype exhibited worse hematological markers and lower phase angle values. Low GNRI and elevated C‐reactive protein–albumin ratio values were independently associated with mortality (hazard ratio = 6.88, 95% confidence interval 2.0–23.6; hazard ratio = 2.2, 95% confidence interval 1.1–4.4). Only higher values of the systemic inflammation index were independently associated with prolonged hospital stays.

Conclusion

Hematological markers may serve as a feasible tool for prognostic assessment. Individuals with the frailty phenotype and low GNRI represented a worst‐case scenario. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 312–318.
Queer processes of Hong Kong as a global formation post‐2019: LGBTIQ+ Hong Kong migrants and their experiences in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Ting‐Fai
Published: February 2024

Although Hong Kong has always been transnational and its overseas communities longstanding, the queer experiences of diasporic Hongkongers have rarely been explored. Through interview‐based research, this article examines the experiences of LGBTIQ+ Hongkongers who migrated to Taiwan after the 2019–2020 Hong Kong protests, with the intention to accomplish three broader theoretical objectives. First, it introduces an intersectional approach to understanding the current Hong Kong diaspora by exploring how queerness came to shape and politicize a changing Hong Kong identity. Second, it considers Taiwan's role in global queer migration by investigating how it became a place of exception for LGBTIQ+ Hongkongers and, by extension, other ethnically Chinese queers. Lastly, it highlights how Hong Kong and Taiwan are linked by a structure of queer Sinophone consciousness, demonstrating how queerness and Chineseness are mutually productive and most amplified in transnational settings.
Preschool English language planning in China: Tensions between policy and practice
Authors: Li Xuan , Li Jialing
Published: February 2024

The earlier starting age for learning English is apparent in the non‐Anglophone world. However, in China, kindergartens are banned from delivering subjects that are designated for primary school level, including English language lessons, as part of reforms to eliminate “schoolification” of preschool education. This qualitative study takes a multi‐level approach to language‐in‐education planning to explore how local education authorities and different types of kindergartens in the city of Hefei, China, interpret and respond to this macro‐level policy. The findings reveal a disparity between officials and school participants in their attitudes toward preschool English language education, as well as divergence between public and private kindergartens in their current English provision. The study probes these disparities and their links to the interplay between the meso‐level local education authority and the different types of kindergartens, as well as the relationship between the government and the market.
Accuracy of automated analyzers for the estimation of CSF cell counts: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Waldrop Greer E. , Cocuzzo Kaitlyn , Schneider Colleen L. , Kim Carla Y. , Goetz Teddy G. , Chomba Mashina S. , Delaurentis Clare E. , Smithgall Marie C. , Francis Richard O. , Thakur Kiran T.
Published: February 2024

This systematic review evaluates the evidence for accuracy of automated analyzers that estimate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) white blood cell counts (WBC) compared to manual microscopy. Inclusion criteria of original research articles included human subjects, English language, and manual microscopy comparator. PUBMED, EMBASE and Cochrane Review databases were searched through 2019 and QUADAS‐2 Tool was used for assessment of bias. Data were pooled and analyzed by comparison method, using random effects estimation. Among 652 titles, 554 abstracts screened, 104 full‐text review, 111 comparisons from 41 studies were included. Pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity (n = 7) were 95% (95%‐CI 93%–97%) and 84% (95%‐CI: 64%–96%), respectively. Pooled R2 estimates (n = 29) were 0.95 (95%‐CI: 0.95–0.96); Pooled spearman rho correlation (n = 27) estimates were 0.95 (95% CI 0.95–0.96). Among those comparisons using Bland–Altman analysis (n = 11) pooled mean difference was estimated at 0.98 (95% CI‐0.54–2.5). Among comparisons using Passing‐Bablok regressions (n = 14) the pooled slope was estimated to be 1.05 (95% CI 1.03–1.07). Q tests of homogeneity were all significant with the exception of the Bland–Altman comparisons (I2 10%, p value 0.35). There is good overall accuracy for CSF WBC by automated hematologic analyzers. These findings are limited by the small sample sizes and inconsistent validation methodology in the reviewed studies.
Teaching pulpectomy in paediatric dentistry: A national cross‐sectional survey of dental schools in Brazil
Authors: Campos Priscilla Sena Souza Luz , Gois Carla Marinho Barreto , Serafim Verônica , Puppin‐Rontani Regina Maria , Pascon Fernanda Miori
Published: February 2024

Background

Pulpectomy is used to treat primary teeth with irreversibly inflamed or necrotic pulp tissue. There is, however, a lack of consensus on clinical protocols for teaching pulpectomy at dental schools.

Aim

To determine what faculty members at Brazilian dental schools are teaching about pulpectomy in primary teeth.

Design

A cross‐sectional, observational study was conducted using a 39‐question survey available via the Google Forms® platform. A snowball sampling strategy was used for recruitment. Invitations to participate were sent via e‐mail, WhatsApp® and Instagram®. The data were analysed descriptively.

Results

A total of 177 (58.4%) responses were obtained. Most faculty members recommended the use of Kerr hand files (66.1%), and 1% sodium hypochlorite was the most common choice for the irrigating solution (35.3%). Iodoform pastes were the first choice of faculty members (41.6%), and 60.5% of the faculty members recommended composite resin as the definitive restoration.

Conclusion

Similarities were found in the teaching of pulpectomy for primary teeth among faculty members at dental schools in Brazil.
Comparative analysis of hip arthroscopy and open surgical dislocation for treating femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Xiong Xinhai , Chen Wenjie , Chen Cheng , Li Chuan , Tan Haitao , Wu Anping
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to compare the impact of hip arthroscopy group and open surgical dislocation group as treatments for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in young athletes, specifically in relation to early hip osteoarthritis. A systematic search was conducted across four databases to identify controlled trials comparing hip arthroscopy and open surgical dislocation for FAI treatment. The selected studies (9 in total) underwent rigorous literature assessment and data analysis using Review Manager (RevMan) 5.3 software. The meta‐ analysis revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between hip arthroscopy group (the test group) and the open surgical dislocation group (the control group) concerning the improvement of the alpha angle (Standardized Mean Difference [SMD]: ‐5.54; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: ‐ 12.45,1.38; p = 0.117), the Modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) after a 12‐ month follow‐ up (SMD:0.94; 95% CI:‐ 2.87,4.75; p = 0.629) and the complication rate (OR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.26,1.65; p = 0.372). However, the meta‐ analysis revealed that the Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS) after a 12‐ month follow‐ up of the test group was significantly higher than that of the control group (SMD: 6.31; 95% CI: 0.53, 12.09; p = 0.032). In terms of the reoperation rate, it demonstrated a significantly lower rate in the test group compared to the control group (OR: 0.48; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.82; p < 0.01). These findings suggest that hip arthroscopy may have better outcomes for patients with FAI, as it is associated with improvements in hip function and a lower reoperation rate. However, these conclusions should be validated by further high‐ quality studies.
RETRACTED: Effect of intra‐wound vancomycin on the surgical site wound infection after spinal surgery: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Chengcheng , Wang Qing , Zhao Wanqi
Published: February 2024

The topical application of the vancomycin in spine surgery is an effective method of reducing the incidence of postsurgical infections. However, there are differences in the prophylactic strategies used for various spinal surgeries. Therefore, the primary aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of the application of the intra‐wound vancomycin during spine surgery. For this purpose, 100 studies were identified through different databases and search engines with various search terms such as ‘intrawound vancomycin in surgery’, ‘intrawound applications of vancomycin’, ‘vancomycin in surgery’, ‘intraoperative vancomycin’, ‘vancomycin spinal surgeries’, ‘treating surgical site infections in spinal surgeries using vancomycin’, ‘spinal surgery’, ‘vancomycin in spinal surgery’, ‘spine surgery’, ‘topical vancomycin’ and ‘local vancomycin’. Furthermore, the identified studies were reviewed thoroughly and finally, 19 studies were selected for meta‐analysis. The selected studies were included based on the inclusion criteria and data was extracted from the selected studies. The pool of the statistically significant studies was further analysed using the ‘meta’ package of R version 4.3.2. The analysed data resulted in statistically significant results with a p‐value <0.001 and the heterogeneity at 50% suggesting that the meta‐analysis results may be significant in supporting the application of vancomycin at surgical sites to reduce the surgical site infections and eventually improve the postoperative conditions by reducing the long hospital stays.
Interactive effects on ACC deaminase activity in salt‐tolerant plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria and impacts on rice crop improvement
Authors: Reshma T. S. , Dileep C.
Published: February 2024

The present study focuses on the 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) deaminase assay and the rhizospheric interactions affecting enzyme activity. We investigate the efficacy of ACC deaminase‐producing rhizobacterial activity in alleviating salt stress in rice. Among the five selected isolates, only two strains, KFSC2 and PK7, possessed the enzyme activity. The amplification of the acdS gene resulted in gene identification in all five isolates. The newly designed primer in this study was suitable for both Pseudomonas and Enterobacter species. The gene products of KFSC1 and KFSC2 were amplified, sequenced and subsequently submitted to GenBank with accession numbers OQ703930 and OQ798805, respectively. This marks the first‐ever submission of the acdS gene sequence from Pseudomonas aeruginosa to GenBank. The interactive effect of root exudates on ACC deaminase activity was assessed using amino acids, organic acids and sugars. The highest enzyme activity was obtained with aspartic acid and fructose, while organic acids and varying pH levels had negative influences on enzyme activity. Additionally, salt and proline had positive effects. These results indicate that there is a positive interaction occurring among these compounds from plants and root‐colonizing bacteria. The selected strain PK7 had a significant impact on growth parameters. Moreover, yield resulted in 252 kg/hec over the control suggests its future possibility of promising bioformulations.
Investigate the relationship between densification and grain size of IGZO target by phase‐field simulation
Authors: Liu Xiaokai , Sun Benshuang , Zhang Wenyu , Zhang Huiyu , Zhao Hetao , Zhao Yongge , Shu Yongchun , Liu Yang , He Jilin
Published: February 2024

The phase‐field method was employed to simulate the effects of pores on grain growth in the indium gallium zinc oxide (IGZO) targets during conventional and two‐stage sintering (TSS). The findings indicated that the TSS method effectively suppressed the rapid growth of grains. With an increase in porosity and a more prominent pore size, the rate of grain growth accelerated, resulting in the formation of coarser grains. Subsequently, IGZO targets were fabricated using the molding‐cold isostatic pressing (CIP) and TSS methods. The densification activation energies of IGZO green compacts were calculated to be 510 and 370 kJ/mol for CIP at 180 and 250 MPa, respectively, utilizing the main sintering curve (MSC). Additionally, by optimizing the TSS process, a highly dense IGZO target with a relative density of 99.53%, a resistivity of 4.3 mΩ/cm, and an average grain size of 8.59 µm was successfully achieved.
The role of leadership in nurses' wellbeing and performance: A cross‐sectional survey using a dual motivational pathway model
Authors: Holtan Kristin Hjelmtvedt , Halvari Anne Elisabeth Münster , Olafsen Anja Hagen , Øvergård Kjell Ivar , Halvari Hallgeir
Published: February 2024

Aim

To examine the positive motivational paths from perceived autonomy‐supportive leadership, and the negative motivational paths from perceived controlling leadership to satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs, work motivation, work performance, work engagement and somatic symptom burden among nurses using Self‐Determination Theory.

Design

The study used a cross‐sectional design mapping nurses' perceptions of the various study variables through a survey.

Methods

Nurses working in the municipal healthcare in Norway were recruited through an electronic questionnaire sent out via a link to their emails between 29th of August and 29th of September 2020. Of them, 219 nurses completed the questionnaire. Study hypotheses were tested using structural equation modelling.

Results

Higher levels of perceived autonomy‐supportive leadership were associated with reduced levels of somatic symptom burden and increased levels of work performance and work engagement through the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and autonomous motivation, specifically identified regulation and intrinsic motivation. Perceptions of controlling leadership were associated with heightened levels of somatic symptom burden through basic psychological need frustration, amotivation and introjected motivation, along with lower levels of work engagement through need frustration and amotivation.

Conclusion

This study underscores the positive motivational paths of perceived autonomy‐supportive leadership on nurses' work performance and wellbeing through the facilitation of basic psychological need satisfaction and autonomous motivation. Conversely, the study highlights negative motivational paths of perceived controlling leadership on reduced work engagement and heightened ill‐being through the basic psychological need frustration, controlled motivation and amotivation.

Impact

This study provides insights and actionable recommendations for nurses and their leaders, emphasizing the significance of understanding the adverse impact associated with perceived controlling leadership. The findings underscore the importance of addressing these issues to mitigate detrimental effects on motivation and overall work functioning.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Challenges experienced by cardiac intensive care nurses during first out‐of‐bed patient mobilization after open‐heart surgery: A descriptive phenomenological qualitative study
Authors: Ünver Seher , Yildirim Meltem , Akbal Sevim , Sever Seda
Published: February 2024

Aim

To investigate the potential challenges experienced by cardiac intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in the first out‐of‐bed patient mobilization after open‐heart surgery and propose solutions.

Design

A qualitative study design using the descriptive phenomenological approach.

Methods

Individual face‐to‐face interviews were conducted via a widely used videoconferencing program between 28 July and 22 October 2022, in the tertiary cardiac ICU of a university hospital. Nurses who had at least 1 year of cardiac ICU experience and actively participating in patient care were included. The COREQ criteria and checklist were followed in this investigation and the data were analysed by using the ATLAS.ti 8.0.

Findings

Nurses reported that they experience challenges when mobilizing patients, such as patients' fear, reluctance or resistance; nurses having insufficient experience, strength or lack of team members. Despite these challenges, they highlighted some positive outcomes of mobilization, such as feeling happy, reinforced team communication and nurse–patient relationship. The nurses also suggested some facilitators, such as patient motivation and an explanation of the process.

Conclusion

Nurses experience various patient‐related and nurse‐related challenges during the first out‐of‐bed mobilization of the patient after open‐heart surgery. It is recommended that healthcare institutions should implement effective strategies to address the staffing shortages and to support nurse motivation to ensure adequate nursing care.

Impact

This study provides valuable insights into the existing literature by examining the potential challenges and strategies of the first out‐of‐bed patient mobilization in the cardiac ICU. It shows that patient education and organizational adaptations are effective ways to overcome the challenges. It also suggests that motivating and informing patients before the mobilization can make the process easier. Moreover, it reveals that successful patient mobilization makes nurses happy, improves team communication and strengthens nurse–patient relationship.

Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement

No patient or public contribution.
A strengths‐based qualitative exploration of critical care nurses' reasons for remaining in critical care
Authors: Phillips Emily K. , Dunsford Jennifer , Van Haute Stephanie , Throndson Karen , Schultz Annette S. H.
Published: February 2024

Aims

Globally, the nursing shortage is a growing concern. Much of the research on retention of nurses focuses on the experience of those who left positions. In this study, we set out to listen to critical care nurses (CCRNs) who have chosen to remain in their positions to understand the factors retaining them in critical care.

Design

This interpretive descriptive study was guided by the following research question: ‘what factors influence CCRN's decision to continue to work in critical care?’

Methods

Digitally recorded interviews and a focus group were conducted between July 2022 and January 2023 using a semi‐structured, strengths‐based interview guide with CCRNs from three critical care units at a tertiary hospital in a city in a central Canadian province. Transcribed interviews were analysed using open, axial and selective coding and constant comparative analysis.

Results

Twenty‐two CCRNs participated in interviews and three in a focus group. The theme of Respect, demonstrated through the interconnected concepts of Working to Full Scope, Team, Rotations and Compensation was identified. Working to Full Scope was described as providing nursing care aligned with how each nurse envisions what nursing is. Being part of a Team led by strong nurse leaders that provides opportunities and supports the sharing of their perspectives was also found. Respect was also found to be demonstrated through Rotations that recognize that work is one part of these nurses' lives. Compensation that reflects the increased education, knowledge and skills required in critical care was the final concept of Respect.

Conclusion

Organizations should focus their efforts across the identified concepts to demonstrate Respect for CCRNs and retain them.

Implications for Practice

The findings of this study provide ways to support the retention of CCRNs.

Impact

This research will have an impact on nursing leaders by providing tangible ways to retain CCRNs.

Reporting Method

Reporting of this work was guided by the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.