bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do energy performance certificates influence time on market? An exploratory research of the residential housing market in Flanders
Authors: Gerassimenko Alesia , De Moor Lieven , Defau Laurens
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Literature has already analysed the relation between a property’s time on market (TOM) and other housing characteristics, but few to none include the property’s energy performance certificates (EPC) and none make a comparison between the selling and rental market. This paper aims to address these gaps by studying the relationship between TOM, price and EPC in both markets.

Design/methodology/approach

By introducing a combination of alternative tests, this study confirms a causal relation between TOM and price in the cross-sectional data. This allows this study to use a two-stage least square model and analyse 392,498 Flemish sale and rental properties transacted between 2019 and 2023.

Findings

The results indicate that both sale and rental properties with higher prices increase the TOM by 4–6 days, and this effect is even stronger in the selling market when the value-added tax is included. This study also finds that EPC labels have a complex relation with the time on market. A-labelled properties tend to increase the transaction time between 10 and 54 days, but B- and C-labelled properties decrease TOM between 20 and 30 days. In addition, the poorer performing labels (E and F) react differently across markets because of market-specific policies.

Originality/value

This paper provides novel insights by studying the relationship between TOM and EPC while also considering TOM’s endogenous relationship with the price. We control for these relationships in both the selling and rental market.
Fine‐scale alpine plant community assembly: Relative roles of environmental sorting, dispersal processes and species interactions
Authors: Helm Norbert , Chytrý Kryštof , Hülber Karl , Moser Dietmar , Wessely Johannes , Gattringer Andreas , Hausharter Johannes , Pauli Harald , Winkler Manuela , Saccone Patrick , Lamprecht Andrea , Rutzinger Martin , Mayr Andreas , Kollert Andreas , Dullinger Stefan
Published: August 2024

Besides environmental sorting, other processes like biotic interactions and dispersal limitation are vital for the assembly of plant communities in high mountains and their re‐assembly under changing climatic conditions. Nevertheless, studies that compare the impact of these factors on plant community assembly above the tree line are largely lacking so far.

We analysed occurrence changes in vascular plant communities of 492 permanent 1‐m2 plots in the alpine‐nival ecotone of Mt. Schrankogel, Austrian Alps by comparing resurvey data from 2014 with data from the initial survey in 1994. We combined these data with species inventories from 899 additional plots sampled in 2021 and 2022 across a larger landscape above the tree line covering an elevational range of 1700 m, which we used for fine‐scale habitat suitability modelling. We assessed the relative effects of projected habitat suitability, propagule pressure from surrounding populations and biomass density of neighbours on 1532 colonization and 372 extirpation events of 31 species observed on the permanent plots.

We found that all three factors are significantly related to both colonisations and extirpations, with habitat suitability having the strongest, propagule pressure a slightly weaker, and vegetation density the weakest effect. Colonisations can be better explained by the three process proxies than extirpations.

Our results indicate a crucial role of dispersal limitation besides the predominant effect of environmental filtering on the (re‐)assembly of the alpine‐nival plant community, while competitive/facilitative effects between plants tend to play a minor role. The strong imprint of nearby source plant populations on colonization/extirpation events suggests that recent plant migrations predominantly occur in small steps. This implies that while the topographically complex alpine terrain offers climatic microrefugia for plants, it may also pose potential barriers, hindering species from following their suitable climatic niches upwards.

Synthesis: Besides filtering by environmental conditions dispersal limitation had a strong effect on the observed changes in a local alpine plant community over two decades. Limited dispersal capacities of plant species may counteract the ability of isolated cold areas to effectively shelter high alpine plants from the effects of climate warming.
Application of the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer instrument as quality control for next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Senst Alina , Bonsiepe Hannah , Kron Sarah , Schulz Iris
Published: August 2024

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have expanded the spectrum of forensic DNA analysis by facilitating efficient and precise genotyping of a large number of genetic markers. Yet, challenges persist regarding complex sample processing and assurance of equal molar concentrations across pooled samples. Since optimal cluster density is crucial for sequencing performance, the determination of both quantity and quality is indispensable for library preparation. In this study, we investigated the application of the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer for library quality control, as studies for forensic approaches, particularly for highly degraded postmortem samples, are rare. Our analysis encompassed assessing total DNA concentrations, fluorescence unit (FU) values, and adapter dimer concentrations in purified DNA libraries derived from buccal swabs and tissue samples of decomposed corpses. The sensitivity study tested a serial dilution derived from buccal swabs and revealed a decrease in FU values and an increase in adapter dimers with declining DNA input concentrations. Deviations in total DNA concentrations and average peak heights between the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer runs indicated a lack of repeatability in data and presented challenges in accurate quantification, which was also observed in previous studies. Yet, the analysis of degraded samples from decomposed human remains has shown the ability to detect adapter dimer concentrations, which can be crucial for the quality of subsequent NGS library preparation and sequencing success. Therefore, the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer proves to be a valuable tool for NGS quality control.
Surveillance of influenza A and B viruses from community and hospital wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Panneerselvam Sneka , Manayan Parambil Athira , Jayaram Anup , Varamballi Prasad , Mukhopadhyay Chiranjay , Jagadesh Anitha
Published: August 2024

Influenza virus is a well‐known pathogen that can cause epidemics and pandemics. Several surveillance methods are being followed to monitor the transmission patterns and spread of influenza in the community. Wastewater‐based Epidemiology (WBE) can serve as an additional tool to detect the presence of influenza viruses. The current study primarily focuses on surveillance of Influenza A and Influenza B in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) samples. A total of 100 wastewater samples were collected in July (n = 50) and August (n = 50) 2023 from four different WWTPs in Manipal and Udupi, district of Karnataka, India. The WWTP samples were processed and tested by Real‐Time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT‐PCR). The data generated was analysed in comparison with the clinical Influenza cases. Of the 100 samples, 18 (18%) tested positive for Influenza A virus and 2 (2%) tested positive for Influenza B virus, with a viral load ranging 1.4 x 102–2.2 x 103 gc/L for influenza A virus and 5.2 x 103–7.7 x 103gc/L for influenza B virus. On correlating the WWTP positivity with clinical case, it was found that influenza clinical cases and virus positivity in wastewater increased simultaneously, emphasizing WBE as a concurrent method for monitoring influenza virus activity.
Mega‐analysis of the brain‐age gap in substance use disorder: An ENIGMA Addiction working group study
Authors: Scheffler Freda , Ipser Jonathan , Pancholi Devarshi , Murphy Alistair , Cao Zhipeng , Ottino‐González Jonatan ,   ENIGMA Addiction Working Group, Thompson Paul M. , Shoptaw Steve , Conrod Patricia , Mackey Scott , Garavan Hugh , Stein Dan J.
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

The brain age gap (BAG), calculated as the difference between a machine learning model‐based predicted brain age and chronological age, has been increasingly investigated in psychiatric disorders. Tobacco and alcohol use are associated with increased BAG; however, no studies have compared global and regional BAG across substances other than alcohol and tobacco. This study aimed to compare global and regional estimates of brain age in individuals with substance use disorders and healthy controls.

Design

This was a cross‐sectional study.

Setting

This is an Enhancing Neuro Imaging through Meta‐Analysis Consortium (ENIGMA) Addiction Working Group study including data from 38 global sites.

Participants

This study included 2606 participants, of whom 1725 were cases with a substance use disorder and 881 healthy controls.

Measurements

This study used the Kaufmann brain age prediction algorithms to generate global and regional brain age estimates using T1 weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. We used linear mixed effects models to compare global and regional (FreeSurfer lobestrict output) BAG (i.e. predicted minus chronological age) between individuals with one of five primary substance use disorders as well as healthy controls.

Findings

Alcohol use disorder (β = −5.49, t = −5.51, p < 0.001) was associated with higher global BAG, whereas amphetamine‐type stimulant use disorder (β = 3.44, t = 2.42, p = 0.02) was associated with lower global BAG in the separate substance‐specific models.

Conclusions

People with alcohol use disorder appear to have a higher brain‐age gap than people without alcohol use disorder, which is consistent with other evidence of the negative impact of alcohol on the brain.
The effect of deprescribing interventions on mortality and health outcomes in older people: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Quek Hui Wen , Page Amy , Lee Kenneth , Lee Georgie , Hawthorne Deborah , Clifford Rhonda , Potter Kathleen , Etherton‐Beer Christopher
Published: August 2024

Aims

Previous systematic reviews suggest that deprescribing may improve survival, particularly in frail older people. Evidence is rapidly accumulating, suggesting a need for an updated review of the literature.

Methods

We updated a 2016 systematic review and meta‐analysis to include studies published from inception to 26 April 2024 from specified databases. Studies in which older people had at least one medication deprescribed were included and grouped by study designs and targeted medications. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool and the Newcastle‐Ottawa tool. Odds ratios (OR) or mean differences were calculated as the effect measures using either the Mantel–Haenszel or generic inverse‐variance method with fixed‐ or random‐effects meta‐analyses. The primary outcome was mortality. Secondary outcomes were adverse drug withdrawal events, physical health, cognitive function, quality of life and effect on medication regimen. Subgroup analyses were performed based on age and intervention types.

Results

A total of 259 studies (reported in 286 papers) were included in this updated review. Deprescribing polypharmacy did not result in a significant reduction in mortality in both randomized (OR 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84–1.09) and non‐randomized studies (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.36–1.38). Further subgroup analyses of randomized studies on deprescribing polypharmacy demonstrated a significant reduction in mortality in the young old (aged 65–79) (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.51–0.99) and when patient‐specific interventions were applied (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63–0.99).

Conclusions

Deprescribing can be achieved with potentially important benefits in terms of improved survival, particularly when patient‐specific interventions are applied and initiated early in the young old.
ACTN4 is associated with the malignant potential of thymic epithelial tumors through the β‐catenin/Slug pathway
Authors: Nagata Hideki , Funaki Soichiro , Kimura Kenji , Fukui Eriko , Kimura Toru , Kanou Takashi , Ose Naoko , Morii Eiichi , Shintani Yasushi
Published: August 2024

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are rare tumors arising from the mediastinum. Among TETs, thymoma type B2, B3 and thymic carcinoma are highly malignant and often present invasion and dissemination. However, the biological characteristics of TETs have not been thoroughly studied, and their mechanisms of invasion and dissemination are largely unknown. α‐Actinin 4 (ACTN4) is a member of actin‐binding proteins and reportedly plays important roles in the progression of several cancers. In this study, we investigated the relationship between ACTN4 and characteristics of the malignant potential of TETs, such as invasion and dissemination. In vitro experiments using Ty‐82 thymic carcinoma cells revealed that overexpression of ACTN4 enhanced the proliferative and invasive ability of Ty‐82 cells; conversely, knockdown of ACTN4 attenuated the proliferative and invasive potential of Ty‐82 cells. In western blotting (WB) experiments, ACTN4 induced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase and glycogen synthase kinase 3β to regulate the β‐catenin/Slug pathway. Furthermore, WB analysis of cancer tissue–origin spheroids from patients with TETs showed results similar to those for Ty‐82 cells. In vivo experiments showed that the knockdown of ACTN4 significantly suppressed the dissemination of Ty‐82 cells. A WB and immunohistochemistry staining comparison of primary and disseminated lesions of TETs using surgical specimens showed upregulated expression of ACTN4, β‐catenin, and Slug proteins in disseminated lesions. In summary, our study suggests ACTN4 is associated with malignant potential characteristics such as invasion and dissemination in TETs via the β‐catenin/Slug pathway.
Disseminating the F‐Words for Child Development to Parents of Children With Developmental Disabilities in Iran: A Qualitative Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: Maleki Zahra , Heidarabadi Seifollah , Mohammadi Ahmad , Azami‐Aghdash Saber , Rosenbaum Peter , Cross Andrea , Soper Alice Kelen
Published: August 2024

Background

Attitudes toward childhood disability have historically focused on biomedical efforts on ‘fixing’. The introduction of WHO's ICF framework for health and Canadian researchers' ‘F‐words’ (functioning, fitness, fun, friends, family and future) have significantly changed the field. To explore whether the F‐words ideas influenced parents' perspectives on their child's abilities and rehabilitation goals, this qualitative pilot study introduced the F‐words to Iranian parents with a child with a developmental disability.

Methods

This study was conducted in Tabriz, Iran, in 2023, using Iranian educational F‐words materials built on ideas available on the CanChild F‐words Knowledge Hub. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with five mothers of children <5 years old with a developmental disability before and after attending an ‘F‐words Awareness Session’ and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

In the preinterviews, six themes (and 20 subthemes) were identified: (i) routines (5); (ii) challenges (4); (iii) parental concerns (3); (iv) child's needs and priorities (3); (v) the role of parents in satisfying needs and challenges (2); and (vi) expectations of rehabilitation (3). In the postinterview, the same six themes and four additional subthemes emerged.

Conclusion

Findings from the pilot study showed that the intervention had an impact on the attitudes and behaviours of participants. Specifically, teaching about the F‐words reduced parents' emphasis on the concept of ‘normality’. Families' positive response to the ‘F‐words Awareness Session’ indicates their openness to incorporating this approach into their daily lives. These findings highlight the potential benefits of utilizing the F‐words in rehabilitation in Iran. Studies like these can serve as a foundation for developing effective strategies for integrating the F‐words into existing rehabilitation practices in Iran.
Four‐mm‐short implants in the rehabilitation of posterior atrophic jaws: A retrospective study on 212 patients with a mean follow‐up of 8.02 years
Authors: Barausse Carlo , Pistilli Roberto , Bonifazi Lorenzo , Tayeb Subhi , Pellegrino Gerardo , Ravidà Andrea , Felice Pietro
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess clinical efficacy of 4‐mm‐short implants in patients with posterior severe vertical bone atrophy in the medium‐ and long‐term follow‐up.

Materials and Methods

Patients rehabilitated with 4‐mm‐short implants in the posterior atrophic jaws, with a minimum follow‐up of 3 years post‐loading, were included in the study. Data were collected for eligible patients, and marginal bone loss (MBL) for each implant was evaluated. The research outcomes were implant failure, MBL and complications.

Results

A total of 212 patients with 496 implants were included, resulting in a mean follow‐up of 8.02 ± 2.17 years. The implant survival rate was 95.36% (95% CI: 93.12%–97.04%). More implant failures were observed in the maxilla (p = .02) and fewer failures were observed in patients undergoing more number of hygienic sessions per year (p < .001). The average MBL after 1‐year‐loading was 0.47 mm, increasing to 0.59 mm after 10 years; after 3 years no statistically significant increase in MBL was observed. Maxillary implants showed greater bone loss than mandibular ones (p < .001). More frequent professional oral hygiene sessions per year resulted being related with reduced MBL (p < .001).

Conclusions

Four‐mm‐short implants showed high survival rates with an up to 10‐year follow‐up. Their use can offer a fixed prosthetic solution for patients with posterior vertical bone atrophy, minimizing surgical invasiveness, rehabilitative times and costs.
An artful workplace of the future: The role of art‐based interventions in fostering levers for creativity amongst a diverse workforce
Authors: Bacouël Anne‐Sophie , Shantz Amanda , Jentjens Sabine , Goudal Clara
Published: August 2024

The relationship between diversity and creativity is equivocal, and so attention has turned to traditional factors that might foster this relationship. Yet the creativity needed for today's challenges requires a radically different set of skills and mindsets than what has driven business in the past. The workforce of the future requires interventions that ignite diverse employees' emotion, intuition and imagination. Art‐based interventions may be one such method, and furthermore, they may be particularly suitable to maximise the conditions needed to foster diversity for creativity, or what we call and examine, ‘levers for creativity’. We look deeply into an organisation that promotes the arts to ask: How do art‐based interventions support workplace diversity to increase levers for employee creativity? Analysis of interview data (n = 21) from one case study finds that art‐based interventions: (1) level the playing field; (2) encourage courage; (3) broaden perspective taking; (4) offer moments to breathe; and (5) cultivate a sense of we‐ness.
An analysis of consumer perception, emotional responses, and beliefs about mead
Authors: Gorman Mackenzie , Stright Allison , Baxter Laura , Moss Rachael , McSweeney Matthew B.
Published: August 2024

Mead is an ancient alcoholic beverage that lacks a large market share in Canada. This study aimed to identify consumer perception of mead, which sensory properties lead to liking and disliking of mead, and how participants would consume mead in their everyday lives. A sub‐objective was to evaluate the use of a written scenario on consumers' liking and emotional response to mead. Alcoholic beverage consumers (n = 122) were recruited to evaluate six commercial mead samples. Initially, consumers completed a word association task about mead. Then, the participants were split into two groups; one group evaluated the samples after writing a consumption scenario, and the other without a scenario. The participants evaluated the samples using hedonic scales and check‐all‐that‐apply questions (sensory properties and emotional responses). Findings showed that mead was associated with historical references and honey, as well as different sensory properties and other alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, and cider). Consumers preferred meads with higher alcoholic content, and meads that they perceived to be sweet and have floral and apple flavours. The use of the written scenario increased hedonic scores for flavour, appearance, and overall liking, as well as their selection of positive emotions when evaluating the mead samples. This study identified consumers prefer meads that are sweet and have a higher alcohol content.
Whose children are we concerned about, and why? A cohort study of sociodemographic referral patterns to the Norwegian child welfare system
Authors: Hemler Mary Elizabeth , Kojan Bente Heggem
Published: August 2024

This study explores the relationship between four sociodemographic factors (socioeconomic status, household composition, immigrant background, and gender) and referral patterns to the Norwegian child welfare system (CWS). Using panel administrative data, the article first examines the impact of these factors on risk for referral to the CWS in the entire 2005 birth cohort over a 5‐year observation period, from when the cohort was 8 to 12 years old (2013–2017). Next, using a dataset consisting of all CWS referrals regarding children in the birth cohort during this observation period, we explore associations between these sociodemographic factors and registered reasons for referral to the CWS. Our analyses indicate that both risk for referral and registered reasons for referral vary according to sociodemographic factors.
Do passive investors influence corporate social responsibility? A risk‐management perspective
Authors: Hou Wenxuan , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the impact of passive investors on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) through the lens of a risk‐management view of CSR, which emphasizes its insurance‐like effects in adverse corporate events. Since passive investors have diversified away most idiosyncratic risks, we predict that they demand less CSR as a strategic approach to manage risks. Using the annual Russell 1000/2000 index reconstitution as an instrument for passive investor ownership, we document evidence consistent with our prediction. The negative effect is more pronounced among better‐diversified passive investors and firms that are not in CSR‐sensitive industries. We further show that passive investors hold back CSR activities through the channel of “voice” by reducing the number of socially responsible investment (SRI) proposals.
Dynamic impact of climate risks on financial systemic risk: Evidence from China
Authors: Tian Ruwei , Li Xin
Published: August 2024

As climate issues gain increasing attention, climate‐related risks now appear to have the potential to be transmitted to the financial system. This paper utilizes a bootstrap rolling window Granger causality test to explore the dynamic correlation between climate transition risk (CTR), climate physical risk (CPR), and financial systemic risk. Empirical findings reveal that, during periods of intensive climate policy transformation, CTR exhibits a significant enhancing effect on systemic financial risk. However, no such phenomenon is observed for CPR. This research indicates that the uncertainty brought about by transitions in climate policy can significantly influence financial systemic risk.
External validation of a predictive model for aged‐related skin tears in Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV cohort
Authors: Rayner Robyn Louise , Carville Keryln Joy
Published: August 2024

Older Australians are at increased risk of skin tears with the risk not always recognised or the injury able to be prevented. This study externally validated Rayner et al. (2019) Skin Tear Risk Prediction Model in an independent aged cohort with a Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV from across multiple residential‐care sites, over a 6‐month period. A total of 362 individuals aged between 65 and 102.5 years completed the study. In all, 165‐residents sustained one or more skin tears. Logistic regression analysis was conducted of the five variables (gender, previous history of skin tears, previous history of falls, purpura and solar elastosis) identified in the skin tear model. The skin tear model provided ‘good’ to nearly ‘very good discrimination’ for correctly classifying residents at‐risk or not‐at‐risk (area under the curve of 0.799 [95% confidence interval, CI: 0.75–0.84]). The skin tear model correctly predicted 75.8% (sensitivity) of participants with skin tears and 71.6% (specificity) of residents without skin tears. The model demonstrated it could work as a screening tool to identify older individuals at risk of skin tears and would benefit clinical practice as it was easy to use, was reproducible, and had good accuracy across aged‐care residents with a Fitzpatrick skin type I–IV.
Impact of volatility, non‐stoichiometry, and atmospheres in perovskite piezoelectric and dielectric materials
Authors: A. Randall Clive , Nishiyama Hiroshi , Shimizu Hiroyuki
Published: August 2024

Defect chemistry that results in the thermal processing of dielectric and piezoelectric films, crystals and ceramics ultimately controls the properties and long‐term performance of materials and devices. This paper reviews several thermochemical defect reactions using important perovskite base composition dielectrics including Pb(Zr,Ti)O3, (Na,K)NbO3, (Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3‒BaTiO3, and Ca(Hf,Ti,Mn)O3. Within this group of perovskite‐based functional materials, we note ways the point defects can be formed to create non‐stoichiometric compositions changing the overall cation‐to‐anion ratios during the synthesis process. These reactions can be developed with the loss of volatile species such as metal and oxygen ions. The relative concentrations of these can impact the over conductions in terms of the mixed contributions of ionic conductivity from the oxygen vacancies and the electronic conductivity, along with microstructure and properties in some cases.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of textured high‐entropy M₄AlC₃/Al₂O₃ (M = Ti, V, Mo, Nb, Ta) composites
Authors: Zou Haoran , Zhang Wen , Zhang Jinyong , Ren Lin , Wang Weimin , Zhang Fan , Li Bin , Fu Zhengyi
Published: August 2024

High‐performance MAX phase‐based composites were developed to overcome the inherent low hardness and low strength of MAX phases by combining lattice distortion‐induced strengthening, texture strengthening, and second‐phase particle strengthening. Textured high‐entropy M4AlC3/Al2O3 (M = Ti, V, Mo, Nb, Ta) composites with different Al2O3 contents were prepared using spark plasma sintering at 1350°C for 70 min. The microstructures of all samples with different compositions were characterized in detail. It was found that as the Al2O3 content increased, the grain size of the high‐entropy M4AlC3 phase gradually decreased, and the aggregation of Al2O3 became more severe. Based on this, the density, hardness, strength, and fracture toughness of all composites were tested. The results indicate that all textured composites exhibit significant anisotropy in their properties, with the high‐entropy M4AlC3/15 vol%Al2O3 composite showing the best overall performance. Additionally, the mechanism of performance improvement was systematically discussed. This work provides an important reference for the subsequent preparation of high‐performance MAX phase‐based composites.
Thermodynamic evaluation and optimization of the K2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 system
Authors: Yang Jifeng , Yan Lianfeng , Ye Lideng , Xiao Guangheng , Wang Kaige , Liu Yuling , Zhang Ligang , Liu Libin , Du Yong
Published: August 2024

The K2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 system is an important component of microcrystalline glass. The K2O‐Al2O3 and K2O‐SiO2 binary systems and the K2O‐Al2O3‐SiO2 ternary system were thermodynamically evaluated and optimized using the CALculation of PHAse Diagram (CALPHAD) method. The liquid phase is described by using the ionic two‐sublattice model, and the solid solutions involved in the ternary system are all described using the compound energy formalism (CEF) model. The new parameters obtained from the optimization are capable of describing the equilibrium phase relations of the ternary system and its subsystems, and the calculated thermodynamic properties of the ternary compounds are in good agreement with the experimental data.
Dielectric and electrical transport properties of alkaline earth vanadate glasses
Authors: Shearer Adam , Lanagan Michael , Feineman Maureen , Mauro John C.
Published: August 2024

Glasses formed from transition metal oxides have shown tailorable electrical and optical properties depending on the valence state and individual element. Vanadate glasses have received specific attention for their high conductivities as compared to most glass families. In this study, the frequency‐dependent capacitance and direct current (dc) conductivity properties of alkaline earth vanadate glasses were investigated. Glasses in the xSrO–(100 − x)V2O5 and xBaO–(100 − x)V2O5 systems, where x = 30, 40, and 50 in mol%, were prepared via melt‐quench synthesis. Capacitance measurements were used to calculate dielectric constants, dielectric loss, and alternating current (ac) conductivity for each sample. Dielectric constants varied between 10–13 and 14–16 for SrO–V2O5 and BaO–V2O5 glasses, respectively, at 1 MHz. Current measurements were made as a function of temperature and voltage for each glass sample. A strong dependence on vanadate content was noted where temperature had a less strong effect. Activation energies were calculated to describe electrical transport mechanisms. All samples showed activation energies governed by electron hopping mechanisms. Such vanadate glasses have properties suitable for applications as cathode materials for batteries, solid state electrolytes, and conductive glass paste with potential for electro‐optic effects involving nonlinear processes.
How is social support defined, categorized and measured in studies of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders among hospital nurses: A scoping review
Authors: Asuquo Enobong Gideon , Murphy‐Tighe Sylvia , Ryan Ruth , O'Sullivan Kieran
Published: August 2024

Aim

To summarize current literature on the definition, categorization and measurement of social support in studies of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders among hospital nurses.

Design

A scoping review.

Data Sources

A literature search of four databases (CINAHL, Medline, Embase and Web of Science) was employed to map the evidence between January 2012 and April 2023 on the definition, categorization and measurement of social support in studies of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders among nurses in hospital settings.

Review Methods

This review adopted Arksey and O'Malley's framework for conducting scoping reviews. Data extraction was reported using PRISMA Scoping Review guidelines and articles synthesized using a descriptive approach.

Results

Fifteen studies met the criteria for inclusion in the review. Social support was distinctly defined in only two studies. Four main categories of social support identified were Co‐worker, Supervisor, Family and Overall support. Eight tools were found to measure social support, and the most used tool was the Job Content Questionnaire.

Conclusions

The review identified that social support is often not explicitly defined. Furthermore, social support can be categorized and measured in different ways, using diverse tools. This variation may affect the understanding of social support and the approaches in measuring and providing social support in the workplace.

Impact

Studies should clearly define the social support category evaluated, to facilitate comparisons between studies of nurses with work‐related musculoskeletal disorders. Healthcare managers should obtain feedback from nurses to ensure that the category of social support provided matches that which the nurse requires to ensure it helps the nurse from an organizational perspective. Healthy social relationships should be encouraged among nurses to promote nurses' well‐being and by extension patient care.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public involvement.
The impact of a clinical academic nurse researcher in critical care: A 1‐year service review
Authors: Ede J. , Sutherland S. , Lumley C. , Douglass A. , Walthall H.
Published: August 2024

Aims

To outline the activity and impact from implementing a clinical academic nurse researcher in a multi‐centre critical care unit.

Design

A prospective exploratory activity audit informed by the Plan, Do, Study, Act framework.

Methods

Quantitative data on clinical academic activity, from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024, were collected in a Microsoft Excel © [2022, version 16.66.1] spreadsheet. Activity narratives were detailed in qualitative data and the impact categorized.

Results

A total of 1500 clinical academic activity hours were logged (accounting for annual leave entitlement and sickness). Of these, 973 h were directly categorized within clinical academic activity. Most frequently undertaken clinical academic activities were academic writing (17.6%), data collection/analysis (9.6%), grant and funding workup (6.8%), Intensive Care Unit service development (6.6%), clinical activity (5.2%) and local level capability and capacity (4.9%) and other supportive tasks such as administration, unscheduled meetings, critical planning time and peer support (38%). Improvements broadly mapped onto five healthcare improvement domains; organizational, process design, data optimization and utilization, evidenced‐based practice, and patients/staff impact.

Conclusions

Our data indicate system mechanisms afforded by the clinical academic role that have not been explored within the contemporary literature. A nursing clinical academic demonstrates impact across the broad organization whilst increasing the visibility of nursing work and the potential for system resilience. In conclusion, our service review underscores the transformative potential of clinical academics in shaping the future of healthcare. Utilizing their expertise and contributions paves the way for innovation, excellence and sustainability in patient care.

Impact

This review has provided clarity about clinical academic activity of a nurse researcher during the first year. There is international impact of this work for both clinical academics who may be evaluating such roles and healthcare management developing similar roles locally.

Patient and Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Medical device‐related pressure injuries in the operating room: A scoping review
Authors: Tobiano Georgia , Huang Tai‐Yang , Lee Bih‐O , Ou Su Fei , Kuruppu Nipuna Randini , Gillespie Brigid M.
Published: August 2024

Aims

To map the existing literature describing medical device‐related pressure injuries in patients during surgery, including investigation of the incidence, types of medical devices, risk factors and strategies for preventing medical device‐related pressure injuries.

Design

A scoping review.

Data Sources

In April 2023, three databases were searched. Studies about adult patients undergoing surgery, from 2014 onwards, in English and Chinese were included. Data were extracted about study characteristics and data related to research questions. The Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for practice and Research recommendations framework were used to synthesize findings.

Results

Two different types of evidence were included in this review; 14 research studies and two quality improvement studies. The incidence of medical device‐related pressure injuries in the operating room was 0.56%–24.5% and respiratory devices were the most common medical devices investigated. Length of surgery, age and BMI were risk factors for medical device‐related pressure injuries in a few studies. The application of a prophylactic dressing and dressing maintenance was the most common prevention strategy.

Conclusion

Ongoing research is needed to confirm the incidence of, and risk factors for, medical device‐related pressure injuries in the operating room. Additionally, more high‐quality evidence is needed to underpin current prevention strategies.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Operating room nurses need to be aware of the risks of medical device‐related pressure injuries and assess and plan prevention strategies accordingly. Once more high‐quality evidence is available, operating room nurses could implement prevention strategies like prophylactic dressings.

Reporting Method

Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Diffusion of innovation, pre‐registration/licence student nurses' use of social media: A reflexive thematic analysis
Authors: Cathala Xabi , Moorley Calvin
Published: August 2024

Aim

To identify and report the use of social media among pre‐registration (pre‐licence) student nurses.

Methods

A social survey was conducted in 2019 to explore student nurses' views of social media usage. Diffusion of innovation theory and social identity theory were used as the theoretical framework. A reflexive thematic analysis was undertaken of responses to an open‐ended question.

Results

351 responses were analysed. Four themes emerged: Social media as a communication tool that helps to keep in contact and communicate with friends, family, colleagues and peers; Social media and self‐care including a sense of pride, boosting morale and helping to relax; Social media and learning by sharing experiences, chatting, posts and social media and professionalism, participants expressed confusion over the use of social media professionally.

Conclusions

The diffusion of social media among UK student nurses is advancing in different aspects of UK student nurses' lives. However, the diffusion seems to slow down when it comes to the professional system. They express concerns that one social system can negatively impact another and have repercussions on a personal and/or professional level and therefore prevent UK student nurses from developing social media proficiencies. Guidance and support should be offered to UK student nurses to develop their social identity across the different systems. This diffusion can help to educate student nurses and future professionals in a globally connected world.

Impact

Social media features in student nurses' personal and professional lives and presents challenges for social identity which is woven into the personal and professional personas. Nursing faculties should have social media competencies embedded into the curricula to develop and strengthen students' social and professional identities across the different systems.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Normalization of increasing shocking coil impedance with full output synchronized shock
Authors: Kadosaka Takahide , Watanabe Masaya , Nakao Motoki , Koya Taro , Temma Taro , Anzai Toshihisa
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Impedance is a crucial parameter in cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). Clinically, most CIEDs measure impedance using low voltage sub‐threshold measurement (LVSM). Although the LVSM of shock impedance (LVSM‐SI) is generally comparable with high voltage shock impedance (HVSI), LVSM‐SI might be inaccurate if peri‐lead tissue degeneration occurs.

Methods and Results

We present a case of elevated LVSM‐SI occurring 8 years post‐lead implantation, possibly attributed to encapsulation of the right ventricular lead coil. After 0.1 J shock was delivered, a full output synchronized shock was administered to measure HVSI, revealing a normal value. Furthermore, LVSM‐SI was normalized and maintained within the normal range during long‐term follow‐up.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest conducting a full‐output synchronized shock test to assess HVSI when abnormal LVSM‐SI is detected in the remote phase post‐ICD implantation, which may be considered to help normalize LVSM shock impedance.
Evaluation of mechanisms involved in regulation of intrinsic excitability by extracellular calcium in CA1 pyramidal neurons of rat
Authors: Forsberg My , Zhou Dinna , Jalali Shadi , Faravelli Giorgia , Seth Henrik , Björefeldt Andreas , Hanse Eric
Published: August 2024

It is well recognized that changes in the extracellular concentration of calcium ions influence the excitability of neurons, yet what mechanism(s) mediate these effects is still a matter of debate. Using patch‐clamp recordings from rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, we examined the contribution of G‐proteins and intracellular calcium‐dependent signaling mechanisms to changes in intrinsic excitability evoked by altering the extracellular calcium concentration from physiological (1.2 mM) to a commonly used experimental (2 mM) level. We find that the inhibitory effect on intrinsic excitability of calcium ions is mainly expressed as an increased threshold for action potential firing (with no significant effect on resting membrane potential) that is not blocked by either the G‐protein inhibitor GDPβS or the calcium chelator BAPTA. Our results therefore argue that in the concentration range studied, G‐protein coupled calcium‐sensing receptors, non‐selective cation conductances, and intracellular calcium signaling pathways are not involved in mediating the effect of extracellular calcium ions on intrinsic excitability. Analysis of the derivative of the action potential, dV/dt versus membrane potential, indicates a current shift towards more depolarized membrane potentials at the higher calcium concentration. Our results are thus consistent with a mechanism in which extracellular calcium ions act directly on the voltage‐gated sodium channels by neutralizing negative charges on the extracellular surface of these channels to modulate the threshold for action potential activation.

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Discharge disposition for home health care patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia: The role of living arrangements and rural living
Authors: Jung Daniel , Ha (Steph) Choi Jeong , Emerson Kerstin Gerst
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To examine the relationship between living arrangements and discharge disposition, and how this relationship differs by the rural or urban characteristics of the patient's residence among home health care patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD).

Methods

This retrospective study used the 2019 Outcome and Assessment Information Set and the Master Beneficiary Summary File. Our study was based on 531,269 Medicare fee‐for‐service patients with ADRD. We used linear probability regression models to examine the relationship between discharge disposition (to the community vs. an institution) and living arrangements, including an interaction term for rural‐urban residence.

Findings

Patients in rural areas (19.8%) were more likely to live alone than those in urban areas (15.2%). Our main results show that patients living at home with others (coefficient: –0.02, p‐value < 0.001) or alone (coefficient: –0.03, p‐value < 0.001) were less likely to be discharged to the community compared to patients who lived in congregate settings. Also, for patients with ADRD who lived in rural areas, living at home with others (rural*home with others; coefficient: –0.02, p‐value < 0.001) or living alone (rural*home alone; coefficient: –0.03, p‐value<0.001) were associated with additional lower probabilities of being discharged to their communities.

Conclusions

A multidimensional approach considering living arrangements to support home health care patients with ADRD could be critical to achieving better health outcomes. Furthermore, implementing area‐specific target interventions could be important for improving the care and health of patients with ADRD as well as reducing rural‐urban disparities in discharge disposition.
Loss of rapid eye movement atonia in rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder and narcolepsy
Authors: Edlinger Franziska , Böck Marion , Seidel Stefan , Trimmel Karin
Published: August 2024

A reduction of physiological muscle atonia during rapid eye movement sleep is characteristic in patients with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, however, it can also be found in narcolepsy patients. We evaluated rapid eye movement sleep associated electromyographic activity to set cut‐off values of rapid eye movement sleep without atonia, differentiating rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder and narcolepsy patients from controls to enable more precise future diagnostic criteria for these disorders. We retrospectively analysed polysomnography recordings of 16 rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder patients, 15 narcolepsy patients, and 19 controls. The combination of phasic and tonic electromyographic activity was recorded in the mentalis and tibialis anterior muscles and analysed in 3 second miniepochs. The cut‐off value for a diagnosis of rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder was 17.07% (100% sensitivity, 94.7% specificity, area under the curve 0.997). For the diagnosis of narcolepsy, we yielded a cut‐off value of 8.4% (86.4% sensitivity, 68.4% specificity, area under the curve 0.850). Rapid eye movement sleep without atonia significantly (p = 0.046) increased in the second night half in rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder patients, while it remained moderately increased in the narcolepsy group. Polysomnographic evaluation proves significantly higher rates of rapid eye movement sleep without atonia in rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder than in narcolepsy patients, allowing differentiation from controls with high sensitivity and specificity. An increase throughout the night is characteristic for rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, whereas a consistent elevation is typical in narcolepsy patients.
The decoy effect only works when the number of options is less than six
Authors: Banerjee Subrato , Kandregula Pragathi
Published: August 2024

The decoy effect is a well‐documented source of violation of elements of demand theory. We experimentally demonstrate that the decoy effect only works when the number of options is limited (specifically not more than five). This is because, with more and more options, it may get difficult for consumers to spot the decoy (against which a Pareto dominant option is made to look more attractive), rendering the decoy effect ineffective. Identifying that the decoy effect works because it facilitates easier choice‐making, we observe that the difficulty in choice‐making with or without the decoy is statistically the same when the number of options to choose from is six or more.
Frequent transient ischemic attack in association with Japanese‐style bathing: A case report
Authors: Oomura Masahiro , Inoue Hiroyasu , Nishikawa Yusuke , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: August 2024

It is known that the traditional Japanese way of bathing can trigger stroke events. We report a patient with internal carotid artery pseudo‐occlusion who presented with transient ischemic attack only after bathing.