bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical analysis of the reporting quality of animal studies within Endodontics using the Preferred Reporting Items for Animal Studies in Endodontics (PRIASE) 2021 quality standard checklist
Authors: Tzanetakis Giorgos , Jakovljevic Aleksandar , Koletsi Despina , Jacimovic Jelena , Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Duncan Henry Fergus , Dummer Paul Michael Howell
Published: June 2023

Aim

To critically evaluate the reporting quality of a random sample of animal studies within the field of endodontics against the Preferred Reporting Items for Animal Studies in Endodontics (PRIASE) 2021 checklist and to investigate the association between the quality of reporting and several characteristics of the selected studies.

Methodology

Fifty animal studies related to endodontics were randomly selected from the PubMed database with publication dates from January 2017 to December 2021. For each study, a score of ‘1’ was given when the item of the PRIASE 2021 checklist was fully reported, whereas a score of ‘0’ was given when an item was not reported; when the item was inadequately or partially reported, a score of ‘0.5’ was given. Based on the overall scores allocated to each manuscript, they were allocated into three categories of reporting quality: low, moderate and high. Associations between study characteristics and reporting quality scores were also analysed. Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact tests were used to describe the data and determine associations. The probability value of .05 was selected as the level of statistical significance.

Results

Based on the overall scores, four (8%) and 46 (92%) of the animal studies evaluated were categorized as ‘High’ and ‘Moderate’ reporting quality, respectively. A number of items were adequately reported in all studies related to background (Item 4a), relevance of methods/results (7a) and interpretation of images (11e), whereas only one item related to changes in protocol (6d) was not reported in any. No associations were confirmed between reporting quality scores and number of authors, origin of the corresponding author, journal of publication (endodontic specialty vs. non‐ specialty), impact factor or year of publication.

Conclusions

Animal studies published in the specialty of endodontics were mostly of ‘moderate’ quality in terms of the quality of reporting. Adherence to the PRIASE 2021 guidelines will enhance the reporting of animal studies in the expectation that all future publications will be high quality.
Preparation of oil‐water separation network based on the novel strategies of SiO2 ceramic micro‐nano structure and PDMS modification
Authors: Liu Wei , Zeng Baobao , Yang Gao
Published: June 2023

In this study, we adopted the novel strategies of the soot template method to construct SiO2 ceramic micro‐nano structure surface and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) modification to reduce the surface energy. We fabricated a superhydrophobic/superoleophilic NS‐PDMS oil–water separation screen by depositing coarse nano‐SiO2 ceramic on the surface of 100‐mesh stainless‐steel screen used as a substrate under the soot template method, which reduced the surface energy with PDMS. The fabricated NS‐PDMS screen exhibited excellent superhydrophobic and self‐cleaning properties. In particular, the superhydrophobic properties were stably maintained under various harsh conditions. Overall, the screen manifested self‐cleaning ability for various water‐containing stains, for example, coffee, milk, beer, and soy sauce. The mechanically damaged screen surface still retained its high roughness, and re‐modification with PDMS could recover the superhydrophobic surface and oil–water separation performance. This suggests the re‐use potential of the damaged NS‐PDMS screen, which is vital for cost reduction and resource recycling. We believe that our study makes a significant contribution to the literature, because the fabricated NS‐PDMS screen is superhydrophobic, superoleophilic, resistant toward several water‐based solutions, chemically and mechanically stable under certain conditions, and can be reused with modification and repair after damage. Therefore, this screen can be broadly used as an oil–water separator.
Application of polypropylene carbonate for the tape casting of silicon nitride ceramics
Authors: Dai Jinrong , Hou Qingjian , Duan Yusen , Zhang Jingxian
Published: June 2023

QPAC40 (polypropylene carbonate), with a little decomposition residue, is commonly used as a binder in aluminum nitride (AlN) tape casting. In this paper, we tried to explore its application in silicon nitride (Si3N4) tape casting. By studying the influence of dispersant, binder, plasticizer/binder ratio, and solid loading on slurry and green tape properties, the optimum formulation of the tape casting of Si3N4 slurry was determined, and the green tape with a uniform structure and relative density up to 63.16% was prepared. Si3N4 ceramics were obtained by debinding at 600°C for 1 h in vacuum and gas‐pressure sintering at 1830°C for 2 h in N2. The thermal conductivity and flexural strength of Si3N4 ceramics were 56.28 ± 1.21 W/(m·K) and 1130.67 ± 23.58 MPa, respectively. These results indicated that QPAC40 can be used to prepare Si3N4 sheets through tape casting.
Glass foam of high compressive strength produced from photovoltaic module waste glass, eggshell, and clay
Authors: Brykalski Marília , Machado Fernando Machado , Camaratta Rubens , Osório Alice Gonçalves , Silveira Leandro Lemos , Bergmann Carlos Perez , Adebayo Matthew Ayorinde
Published: June 2023

A glass foam (GF) of high specific compressive strength (12.17±1.91 MPa g−1 cm−3) and low thermal conductivity (.121±.001 Wm−1 K−1) was produced from waste glass of photovoltaic module, eggshells, and bentonite clay. The influences of the amount of clay and heat‐treatment temperature on the GFs final properties were assessed. X‐ray diffraction results and the data of microscopic analyses demonstrated that addition of clay affected the structure and porosity of the GFs, and consequently their mechanical properties. On the basis of the mechanical property (density), the GF that composed of 80% waste glass, 10% clay, and 10% eggshell at the sintering temperature of 900°C was the best. The GFs reported in this study could serve as promising insulators in situations where high load support is required.
Short‐term nitric oxide treatment enhances the antioxidant capacity and maintains the preservation quality of Meizao cherries
Authors: Liang Fuhao , Li Xuejin , Zhou Cong , Wang Xiaodong , Wang Haifen , Yuan Junwei , Zheng Yanli , Li Xihong , Chen Lan , Yang Xiangzheng , Jiang Yuqian
Published: June 2023

Senescence accompanying browning is the main factor that reduces the sensory and nutritional quality of cherries during storage. In the present study, we analysed the effects of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) treatment with 0, 200, 400, and 600 μm on delaying the senescence and browning of cherries preserved at 4 °C for 30 days. Results suggested that 400 μm SNP treatment significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity and maintained better fruit quality. Specifically, SNP treatment inhibited the activity of polyphenol oxidase, delayed the browning of cherry flesh and reduced soluble quinone content. Meanwhile, the peroxidase (POD), catalase and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL) activities were enhanced by SNP treatments, while reactive oxygen species accumulation and membrane lipid peroxidation were alleviated. In addition, SNP treatment increased the accumulation of phenols, flavonoids and anthocyanins, which also enhanced the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity in cherries. Therefore, our results support SNP treatment to be a potential approach to delay flesh browning and maintain the sensory and nutritional qualities of cherries.
Magnetic properties and self‐heat behaviors of core@shell structured MnFe2O4@Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Lamouri Rachida , Kim Ki Hyeon
Published: June 2023

In this work, a facile solvothermal synthesis of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles is followed by an easy and reproducible process to envelop the synthesized MnFe2O4 nanoparticles with iron oxide nanoparticles using ethanol and ethylene glycol as solvents. All prepared MnFe2O4 nanoparticles show a homogenous distribution of spherical particles with an average particle size between 12 and 16 nm. The encapsulation process of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles does not affect their homogenous distribution with a very thin layer of Fe3O4 on the shell structure. The magnetic properties showed a superparamagnetic character with enhanced magnetic properties of MnFe2O4@Fe3O4 compared to pure MnFe2O4, which has been verified by magnetization and electron spin resonance. The heating efficiency of the prepared samples was evaluated in terms of the specific loss power using the calorimetric method. The synthesized MnFe2O4 nanoparticles show a significantly high value of about 72 W/g, which got doubled in the core@shell structure and reached 140 W/g at 189 kHz and 10kA/m of the magnetic field.
Electrophysiological responses of the left atrial appendage during pulsed‐field electrical isolation utilizing a novel device in a canine model
Authors: Xu Jiangang , Yu Fengyuan , Li Jianmin , Wang Kun , Zhuge Lun , Dong Xiaonan , Tang Min
Published: June 2023

Background

The electrophysiological responses of the left atrial appendage (LAA) during pulsed‐field electrical isolation have not been established.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the electrical responses of the LAA during pulsed‐field electrical isolation using a novel device and their relations to acute isolation success.

Methods

Six canines were enrolled. The E‐SeaLA™ device, which is able to perform LAA occlusion and ablation simultaneously, was deployed into the LAA ostium. LAA potentials (LAAp) were mapped via a mapping catheter, and the LAAp recovery time (LAAp RT, the time between the last pulsed spike and the first recovered LAAp) was measured after pulsed‐train delivery. The initial pulse index (PI, corelated to pulsed‐field intensity) was adjusted during the ablation procedure until LAAEI was achieved. Acute LAA electrical isolation (LAAEI) success was defined as LAAp disappearance or exit and entrance conduction block, confirmed through a drug test and a 60‐minute waiting period.

Result

All canines achieved successful LAA occlusion without peri‐device leaks. Acute LAA electrical isolation (LAAEI) was achieved in five out of six canines (5/6, 83.3%). Very late LAAp recurrence (LAAp RT > 600 s) was observed during PFA. Early recurrence (LAAp RT < 30 s) was observed in two canines (2/6, 33.3%) post‐PFA. Intermediate recurrence (LAAp RT ~ 120 s) was observed in three canines (3/6, 50%) post‐PFA. The two canines with intermediate recurrence achieved LAAEI with higher PI ablations. The one canine with early LAAp recurrence had a peri‐device leak and achieved LAAEI by the same PI after replacing with a larger size device and eliminating the peri‐device leak. Another canine with early recurrence (1/6, 16.7%) failed to achieve LAAEI due to epicardial connection with persistent left superior vena cava. No coronary spasm, stenosis or other complications were observed.

Conclusion

These results suggest that with proper device‐tissue contact and pulse intensity, LAAEI can be achieved using this novel device without serious complications. The LAAp RT patterns observed in this study could inform and guide the adjustment of the ablation strategy.
Effects of intercropping marigold, cowpea and an insecticidal soap on whiteflies and aphids in organic squash
Authors: Lopez Marice , Liburd Oscar E.
Published: June 2023

The silverleaf whitefly MEAM1 (Bemisia tabaci) Gennadius (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), the cowpea aphid (Aphis craccivora Koch), the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae Sulzer) and the melon aphid (Aphis gossypii Glover) Hemiptera: Aphididae are major insect pests of squash (Cucurbita pepo L.), causing significant yield losses of up to 80% in Florida. We hypothesized that intercropping African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) with zucchini squash will encourage an abundance of beneficial arthropods and increase cultural and biological control against these key insect pests by significantly reducing their populations and consequently improve yields. In a 2‐year field experiment, five treatments were evaluated in a randomized complete block design consisting of four replicates. Three diversified cropping treatments were implemented: (1) intercropping squash with marigold, (2) intercropping squash with cowpea, (3) intercropping squash with marigold and cowpea (mixed). These treatments were compared with an organic grower standard insecticide, (4) M‐Pede (potassium salts of naturally derived fatty acids) sprayed on monocropped squash and (5) monocropped squash with no pest management (control). Results indicated that squash intercropped with marigolds accounted for the highest marketable yields. Squash intercropped with cowpea had marginally high yields but attracted the highest densities of aphids. M‐Pede did not increase squash yields, but reduced aphids, whiteflies and associated squash silverleaf (SSL) disorder ratings and showed no deleterious effect on populations of natural enemies. We conclude that a mixture of marigold and cowpea could be used to suppress pests by increasing beneficial arthropod diversity while enhancing marketable yields of organic squash. M‐Pede could be used as a last resort when experiencing high hemipteran pressure.
Fine structure and molecular characterization of two new parabasalid species that naturally colonize laboratory mice, Tritrichomonas musculus and Tritrichomonas casperi
Authors: Tuzlak Leila , Alves‐Ferreira Eliza V. C. , Schwartz Cindi L. , Kennard Andrea , Leung Jacqueline M. , Shehata Christina , Grigg Michael E.
Published: June 2023

Tritrichomonas muris is a common flagellated protist isolated from the cecum of wild rodents. This commensal protist has been shown previously to alter immune phenotypes in laboratory mice. Other trichomonads, referred to as Tritrichomonas musculis and Tritrichomonas rainier, also naturally colonize laboratory mice and cause immune alterations. This report formally describes two new trichomonads, Tritrichomonas musculus n. sp., and Tritrichomonas casperi n. sp., at the ultrastructural and molecular level. These two protists were isolated from laboratory mice and were differentiated by their size and the structure of their undulating membrane and posterior flagellum. Analysis at the 18S rRNA and trans‐ITS genetic loci supported their designation as distinct species, related to T. muris. To assess the true extent of parabasalid diversity infecting laboratory mice, 135 mice bred at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) were screened using pan‐parabasalid primers that amplify the trans‐ITS region. Forty‐four percent of mice were positive for parabasalids, encompassing a total of eight distinct sequence types. Tritrichomonas casperi and Trichomitus‐like protists were dominant. T. musculus and T. rainier were also detected, but T. muris was not. Our work establishes a previously underappreciated diversity of commensal trichomonad flagellates that naturally colonize the enteric cavity of laboratory mice.
The environmental impact of keeping a tropical aquarium in Northern Europe
Authors: Perry William Bernard
Published: June 2023

Tropical fishkeeping is a popular practice in societies across the globe and involves recreating and sustaining an entire ecosystem in an aquarium within a domestic setting. The process invariably has an environmental impact, yet an assessment of this impact has previously been limited to the ecological consequences of harvesting fish from the wild or the release of non‐native fish species. Provided here are the first estimates of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2eq) emissions produced from running a tropical aquarium across multiple countries in Northern Europe (France, Poland and the UK), along with water consumption. Estimates were produced in silico and are discussed in the context of freshwater and marine aquariums, calculated using example aquarium sizes of 50, 200 and 400 l. Using estimates from the UK, depending on size and running conditions, a tropical aquarium produces an estimated 85.3–635.2 kg of CO2eq per year, equating to 1.6%–12.4% of the UK annual average household CO2 emissions, and uses 156–31,200 l of water per year, equating to 0.2%–30.1% of the UK annual average household water usage. Despite this, comparison with the CO2eq of an average‐size dog (127–1592 kg of CO2eq per year) or cat (121–251 kg of CO2eq per year), estimated from meat consumption alone, demonstrates that ornamental fishkeeping can be a more environmentally conscious pet choice. In addition, the majority of CO2eq produced from tropical fishkeeping is generated from the energy consumption of aquarium equipment and as more national electricity grids begin to decarbonize, this estimate should decrease.
Andrology of shortnose guitarfish Zapteryx brevirostris (Müller & Henle, 1841) (Chondrichthyes, Trygonorrhinidae)
Authors: de Oliveira Camilo Laura , Maganhe Bruna Larissa , Gallo Neto Hugo , Crusco Silvia Edelweiss , Malavasi‐Bruno Carlos Eduardo , Sanches Eduardo Gomes
Published: June 2023

The andrological study of a species involves the macro‐ and microscopic analyses of the internal reproductive organs and the evaluation of seminal parameters and ultrastructural characteristics of the spermatozoa. As in other vertebrates, the male reproductive tract in chondrichthyans consists of testes and reproductive ducts (efferent duct, epididymis, Leydig's gland, ductus deferens and seminal vesicle). In this study the authors used three adult specimens of Zapteryx brevirostris from wild capture kept at the Ubatuba Aquarium, Brazil. Semen was collected by abdominal massage over the location of the seminal vesicle, preceded by ultrasonographic evaluation. The semen collected was diluted 1:200 and subject to quantitative and morphological analyses. Ultrastructural analysis was performed using transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Correlation was observed between successful collection and ultrasonographic image of an engorged seminal vesicle, as well as testicles with easily delimitable margins and higher echogenicity. It was possible to identify free spermatozoa with helical filiform appearance, as well as spermatozeugmata. The average sperm concentration resulted in 5 million packets per millilitre and 140 million spermatozoa per millilitre. The sperm nucleus is described as follows: cone shaped, parachromatin sheath less dense than the chromatin of the nucleus, smooth depression of the nuclear fossa, abaxial axoneme 9 + 2 and accessory axonemal columns in positions 3 and 8 and oval shaped, with flattened inner surface in cross‐section. These results broaden the knowledge of the andrology of this species, contributing to ex situ breeding programmes.
Not a single meaning: Definition and evolution of singlehood in France and the United States
Authors: Bergström Marie , Brée Sandra
Published: June 2023

Singlehood appears to be an understudied topic in the social sciences, and a particularly diverse field of research. Focusing on the United States and France, this article reviews existing literature to answer three questions that are prerequisites for theorizing singlehood (1) What is singlehood? We first discuss the diversity of terms used in ordinary language to designate singles, and the different statistical measures that coexist in the scholarly literature. (2) Who and how many are single? We show that different definitions lead to different counts of the single population and discuss the driving forces behind the rise in singlehood. (3) What is new? Drawing on literature on the couple norm and the single lifestyle, we then turn to the question of the specificity of the contemporary era. In the last section, we discuss the implications for theorizing singlehood. The answers to all three questions lead us to promote a life course approach to singlehood.
Association between obstructive sleep apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: El Hage Chehade Nabil , Fu Yuhan , Ghoneim Sara , Shah Sagar , Song Gengqing , Fass Ronnie
Published: June 2023

Background and Aim

We aim to conduct a systematic review and determine the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Methods

Literature search for eligible studies was performed across major databases. The main endpoint was to assess the association between GERD and OSA. Subgroup analyses were performed to determine this strength of the association stratified by the diagnostic tools used for OSA (nocturnal polysomnogram or Berlin questionnaire) and GERD (validated reflux questionnaire or esophagogastroduodenoscopy). We also compared sleep efficiency, apnea hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale in OSA patients with or without GERD. Results were pooled together using Reviewer Manager 5.4.

Results

Six studies involving 2950 patients with either GERD or OSA were included in the pooled analysis. Our findings suggest that there was a statistically significant unidirectional association between GERD and OSA (odds ratio [OR] = 1.53, P = 0.0001). Subgroup analyses redemonstrated an OSA‐GERD association irrespective of the tools used for diagnosing either GERD or OSA (P = 0.24 and P = 0.82, respectively). Sensitivity analyses demonstrated the same association after controlling for gender (OR = 1.63), BMI (OR = 1.81), smoking (OR = 1.45), and alcohol consumption (OR = 1.79). In patients with OSA, there were no statistically significant differences between patients with or without GERD in terms of apnea hypopnea index (P = 0.30), sleep efficiency (P = 0.67), oxygen desaturation index (P = 0.39), and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (P = 0.07).

Conclusion

There exists an association between OSA and GERD that is independent of the modalities used for screening or diagnosing both disorders. However, the presence of GERD did not affect the severity of OSA.
A Preliminary Investigation of Prenatal Anxiety Sensitivity and Postpartum Distress
Authors: Witcraft Sara M. , Perry Megan M. , Viana Andres G. , Tull Matthew T. , Dixon Laura J.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Distress during pregnancy and postpartum is common and contributes to poor infant and maternal outcomes, such as developmental delays and mental health disorders, respectively. Anxiety sensitivity, or fear of the symptoms of anxiety (eg, palpitations, confusion), is a risk factor known to increase distress across psychological and health‐related conditions. Given the physiologic and emotional changes that occur during the perinatal period, anxiety sensitivity may be a salient risk factor for maternal distress. In this pilot study, we aimed to understand the unique role of prenatal anxiety sensitivity in postpartum psychological and parenting distress.

Methods

Twenty‐eight pregnant women (mean age, 30.86 years) were recruited from the community in a Southeastern metropolitan area of the United States. Participants completed self‐report measures during their third trimester of pregnancy and again within 10 weeks postpartum. The Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales‐21 and the Parenting Distress subscale of the Parenting Stress Index‐4‐Short Form were the primary postpartum outcome measures.

Results

Prenatal anxiety sensitivity was elevated in this sample relative to convenience samples. Prenatal anxiety sensitivity uniquely contributed to postpartum psychological (b, 1.01; P < .001) and parenting distress (b, 0.62; P = .008), after accounting for age, gravidity, and gestation.

Discussion

Albeit preliminary, results suggest prenatal anxiety sensitivity may be an important and malleable risk factor associated with several mental health concerns common in the perinatal period. Anxiety sensitivity may be targeted with brief interventions to prevent or reduce postpartum distress. Reducing prenatal anxiety sensitivity has the potential prevent the onset or worsening of psychological disorders among women and, in turn, may improve infant and child outcomes. Future studies should replicate these findings in a larger sample.
Consuming intimate apparel: A Brazilian transgender discourse
Authors: Rocha Rodolfo Rodrigues , Veloso Andres Rodriguez , Falcão Roberto Flores , Rossini Giovanna Giacon , Collalto Beatriz Toriello , Lopes Larissa dos Santos , Batista Giovanna Zamboni
Published: June 2023

Transgender consumers struggle to have their gender identity recognized, resorting to clothing as a practical way to forge their identity. Intimate apparel represents the innermost type of clothing, carrying both functional and aesthetic roles for transgender individuals. When navigating the intimate apparel marketplace, transgender consumers are faced with vulnerability as their gender identity is stigmatized by society, negatively impacting their well‐being. This research focuses on understanding the neglected aspects of intimate apparel consumption by transgender consumers, discussing the role of stigma as it generates vulnerability in the intimate apparel marketplace. To gain insight into the multifaceted transgender people's intimate apparel consumption context, we conducted in‐depth interviews with 18 Brazilian transgender consumers. Data were analyzed using dialogical thematic analysis with a hybrid approach of deductive and inductive coding. Our findings revealed that: (1) the consumption of intimate apparel by transgender individuals involves a striking duality of both positive and negative aspects; (2) although transgender consumers see intimate apparel as a legitimate way of expressing their gender identity that carries symbolic meaning, functional aspects (e.g., comfort and fit) are also essential to them; and (3) intimate apparel plays a unique role during transgender people's social transition as they can choose whether to use those pieces privately or publicly, unlike most fashion products. Our key takeaway from this research is that consuming intimate apparel carries multifaceted meanings for transgender consumers, impacting their emotional and social well‐being in several ways.
Registered Nurses' attitudes towards end‐of‐life care: A sequential explanatory mixed method study
Authors: Alshammari Fares , Sim Jenny , Lapkin Samuel , McErlean Gemma
Published: June 2023

Aims

To examine registered nurses' attitudes about end‐of‐life care and explore the barriers and facilitators that influence the provision of high‐quality end‐of‐life care.

Design

A sequential explanatory mixed methods research design was used.

Methods

An online cross‐sectional survey was distributed to 1293 registered nurses working in five different hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Frommelt Attitudes Towards Care of the Dying Scale was used to assess nurses' attitudes towards end‐of‐life care. Following the survey, a subset of registered nurses were interviewed using individual semi‐structured interviews.

Results

Four hundred and thirty‐one registered nurses completed the online survey, and 16 of them participated in individual interviews. Although nurses reported positive attitudes towards caring for dying patients and their families in most items, they identified negative attitudes towards talking with patients about death, their relationship with patients' families and controlling their emotions. The individual interview data identified the barriers and facilitators that registered nurses experience when providing end‐of‐life care. Barriers included a lack of communication skills and family and cultural and religious resistance to end‐of‐life care. The facilitators included gaining support from colleagues and patients' families.

Conclusion

This study has identified that while registered nurses hold generally favourable attitudes towards end‐of‐life care, they have negative attitudes towards talking with patients and families about death and managing their emotional feelings.

Relevance to clinical practice

Education providers and leaders in healthcare settings should consider developing programmes for undergraduate nurses and nurses in clinical practice to raise awareness about the concept of death in a cross‐section of cultures. Nurses' attitudes towards dying patients will be enhanced with culture‐specific knowledge which will also enhance communication and coping methods.

Reporting method

This study used the Mixed Methods Article Reporting Standards (MMARS).
Interventions and strategies to prevent medical device‐related pressure injury in adult patients: A systematic review
Authors: Lyu Yang , Huang Ya‐Ling , Li Zhao‐Yu , Lin Frances
Published: June 2023

Background

Current evidence shows that medical device‐related pressure injury (MDRPI) has a high prevalence (10%) and incidence (12%), and much research has been done to prevent MDRPI in recent years. However, to our knowledge, there is limited systematic review available on interventions and strategies to prevent MDRPI.

Aim

To synthesise research evidence on interventions and strategies used to prevent MDRPI.

Methods

This systematic review adhered to the PRISMA Guidelines. We searched six databases including Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Web of Science and ProQuest with no restriction to year of publication. Data were extracted and checked by two authors independently. A narrative summary technique was used to describe the findings. Implementation strategies were grouped into six classifications: dissemination/implementation process/integration/capacity building/sustainability/scale‐up strategies.

Results

Twenty‐four peer‐reviewed papers met the inclusion criteria, which comprised of 11 quality improvement projects and 13 original research. Types of devices included respiratory devices (non‐invasive ventilation mask, CPAP/BiPAP mask, endotracheal tube), gastrointestinal/urinary devices and other devices. Interventions used included the use of dressing, hyperoxygenated fatty acids, full‐face mask, training, and/or multidisciplinary education, use of special securement devices or tube holder, repositioning, application of stockinette, early removal and foam ring use. Common implementation strategies included ongoing staff education, audit and standardising documentation or guideline development.

Conclusion

Much work on MDRPI prevention strategies has been undertaken. There were a variety of devices reported, however, it is evident that higher quality research is needed.

Relevance to clinical practice

Current evidence shows that interventions including use of dressing or special securement device, repositioning, and training/multidisciplinary education can be beneficial for MDRPI prevention. High‐quality research, such as randomised controlled trials are needed to test the effectiveness of the interventions and their implementation strategies.

No patient or public contribution.
Effect of preheating and ultrasound application of resin‐based luting agents on the failure load of a lithium disilicate glass‐ceramic
Authors: Figueiredo Paola Serraglio , Spazzin Aloísio Oro , Bacchi Atais , Alessandretti Rodrigo
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To assess the effect of preheating resin‐based materials and ultrasound application on the failure load of a lithium disilicate glass‐ceramic.

Materials and methods

Ninety ceramic specimens were produced (14×12×1.0 mm) and divided into 9 groups (n = 10) to be bonded to a dentin analog (Nema G10) with light‐cured luting agent (LC), flowable resin composite (FL), and supra‐nano filled resin composite (SN), as follows: LC/R – LC at room temperature; LC/P – preheated LC; LC/P/U ‐ preheated LC and Ultrasound; FL/R ‐ FL at room temperature; FL/P ‐ preheated FL; FL/P/U – preheated FL and Ultrasound; SN/R – SN at room temperature; SN/P ‐ preheated SN; SN/P/U ‐ preheated SN and Ultrasound. The failure load test was performed in a universal testing machine with the aid of acoustic detection. The data was analyzed with two‐way ANOVA (for failure load) and Weibull statistics (Weibull modulus ‐ m and characteristic strength, based on 95% confidence intervals ‐ CI).

Results

The analyses of failure load revealed no statistically significant difference among groups considering the type of luting agent (P = 0.075; F = 2,673), the application method (P = 0.772; F = 2,259), and the interaction between them (P = 0.297; F = 1,248). The characteristic strength did not show differences among groups (95% CI). The m, which indicates structural reliability, showed lower values for SN/P/U and SN/P, with a difference from other selected groups (95% CI).

Conclusion

Preheating of resin‐based materials and ultrasound application did not affect the failure load of lithium disilicate glass‐ceramic. Lower reliability was observed with supra‐nano filled resin composite.
Clawing Through Bits of Glass and Bricks: James Baldwin and Reinhold Niebuhr on the Birmingham Church Bombing
Authors: Calloway Jamall A.
Published: June 2023

This article analyzes the unpublished dialogue between James Baldwin and Reinhold Niebuhr where they discussed the role of the Christian church in the wake of six child murders in Birmingham, Alabama on September 15, 1963. On that catastrophic day—one that is impossible to forget—the Ku Klux Klan bombed The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, and two black boys were subsequently shot and killed. In the wake of that violence, this article will show that for Baldwin, the dynamite that exploded the face of the “alabaster Christ” from the stained‐glass window presents an opportunity for not only a new depiction of Jesus in terms of presentation—but more significantly—a brand‐new Christology rooted in black liberation. Such a reading provides us with an unusual constructive theological position offered by Baldwin, especially once it is read alongside a public essay written by the Association of Artists for Freedom advocating for Black Christmas.
Understanding Critical Health Literacy Among Adolescents: Psychometric Properties of the CHLA Questionnaire in Lower Secondary Schools in Norway
Authors: Haugen Anders L. Hage , Esser‐Noetlichs Marc , Riiser Kirsti , Hatlevik Ove Edvard
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Schools are important arenas for the promotion of critical health literacy (CHL) among adolescents. Key domains of CHL are information appraisal, understanding social determinants of health, and abilities to act on determinants of health. In this paper, we examine the psychometric properties of the Critical Health Literacy for Adolescents Questionnaire (CHLA‐Q).

METHODS

A cross‐sectional survey study was performed at 5 schools in Norway. Respondents included 522 pupils aged 13‐15 years old. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to examine the structural validity. Internal reliability was assessed using ordinal Cronbach's alpha.

RESULTS

The estimated model had acceptable closeness of fit. Five of 6 scales displayed adequate internal reliability.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate acceptable fit of the CHLA‐Q framework and that 5 of the 6 scales are applicable to inform future research and interventions. More research is needed on measurement of the second domain of CHL.
The 2022 PDMA Doctoral Consortium: Emerging research priorities in new product development and innovation and insights into community building
Authors: Xiao Yazhen , Bharadwaj Neeraj
Published: June 2023

In July 2022, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville (UTK) hosted the fifth Product Development Management Association (PDMA) Doctoral Consortium. As a critical vehicle to promote doctoral student research and scholarly networking, this consortium featured emerging research topics on new product development (NPD) and innovation by promising doctoral students and leading scholars, provided exposure to cutting‐edge practice in additive manufacturing, and facilitated opportunities for the NPD and innovation research community building. This article summarizes key insights and synthesizes important research topics emerging from the event.
Coevolutionary escalation led to differentially adapted paralogs of an insect's Na,K‐ATPase optimizing resistance to host plant toxins
Authors: Herbertz Marlena , Dalla Safaa , Wagschal Vera , Turjalei Rohin , Heiser Marlies , Dobler Susanne
Published: June 2023

Cardiac glycosides are chemical defence toxins known to fatally inhibit the Na,K‐ATPase (NKA) throughout the animal kingdom. Several animals, however, have evolved target‐site insensitivity through substitutions in the otherwise highly conserved cardiac glycoside binding pocket of the NKA. The large milkweed bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus, shares a long evolutionary history with cardiac glycoside containing plants that led to intricate adaptations. Most strikingly, several duplications of the bugs' NKA1α gene provided the opportunity for differential resistance‐conferring substitutions and subsequent sub‐functionalization of the enzymes. Here, we analysed cardiac glycoside resistance and ion pumping activity of nine functional NKA α/β‐combinations of O. fasciatus expressed in cell culture. We tested the enzymes with two structurally distinct cardiac glycosides, calotropin, a host plant compound, and ouabain, a standard cardiac glycoside. The identity and number of known resistance‐conferring substitutions in the cardiac glycoside binding site significantly impacted activity and toxin resistance in the three α‐subunits. The β‐subunits also influenced the enzymes' characteristics, yet to a lesser extent. Enzymes containing the more ancient αC‐subunit were inhibited by both compounds but much more strongly by the host plant toxin calotropin than by ouabain. The sensitivity to calotropin was diminished in enzymes containing the more derived αB and αA, which were only marginally inhibited by both cardiac glycosides. This trend culminated in αAβ1 having higher resistance against calotropin than against ouabain. These results support the coevolutionary escalation of plant defences and herbivore tolerance mechanisms. The possession of multiple paralogs additionally mitigates pleiotropic effects by compromising between ion pumping activity and resistance.
On polymorphic uncertainty modeling in shell buckling
Authors: Fina Marc , Wagner Werner , Graf Wolfgang
Published: June 2023

Buckling is typically the governing failure mode of thin‐walled shells. In particular, geometric and material imperfections have a major influence on the buckling behavior. Small variations of imperfections have large effects on the load‐bearing behavior. However, the design of shells is still characterized by a deterministic way of thinking, in which uncertainties have not yet been sufficiently considered. Even in probabilistic approaches, false assumptions are often generated due to the small amount of experimental data. The focus of this paper is an appropriate uncertainty quantification based on the available data. Therefore, the concept of polymorphic uncertainty modeling is presented on axially loaded shells with different types of imperfections. Finally, an idea for a novel design concept for shells based on a fuzzy‐valued safety level is introduced. The paper is intended to initiate a rethinking of the methodology for the numerical design of shells with an appropriate uncertainty quantification.
Convolutional variational autoencoder for ground motion classification and generation toward efficient seismic fragility assessment
Authors: Ning Chunxiao , Xie Yazhou
Published: June 2023

This study develops an end‐to‐end deep learning framework to learn and analyze ground motions (GMs) through their latent features, and achieve reliable GM classification, selection, and generation of simulated motions. The framework is composed of an analysis workflow that transforms and reconstructs GMs through short‐time Fourier transform (STFT), encodes and decodes their latent features through convolutional variational autoencoder (CVAE), and classifies and generates GMs by grouping and interpolating latent variables. A benchmark study is established to confirm the minor difference between original GMs and the corresponding reconstructed accelerograms. The encoded latent space reveals that certain latent variables are directly linked to the dominant physical features of GMs. Resultantly, clustering latent variables using the k‐means algorithm successfully classifies GMs into different groups that vary in earthquake magnitude, soil type, field distance, and fault mechanism. By linearly interpolating two parent latent variables, simulated GMs are generated with consistent class information and matching response spectra. Furthermore, seismic fragility models are developed for a steel frame building and a concrete bridge using different sets of GMs. Using five classified, top‐ranked motions, regardless of recorded or simulated accelerograms, can achieve reasonable and efficient fragility estimates compared to the case that adopts 230 GMs. The proposed deep learning framework addresses two compelling questions regarding seismic fragility assessment: How many GMs are sufficient and what types of motions should be selected.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for the treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections
Authors: Kato Hideo , Hagihara Mao , Asai Nobuhiro , Umemura Takumi , Hirai Jun , Mori Nobuaki , Yamagishi Yuka , Iwamoto Takuya , Mikamo Hiroshige
Published: June 2023

Background

Isavuconazole is a novel triazole antifungal agent. However, the previous outcomes were highlighted by statistical heterogeneity. This meta‐analysis aimed to validate the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for the treatment and prophylaxis of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) compared with other antifungal agents (amphotericin B, voriconazole and posaconazole).

Methods

Scopus, EMBASE, PubMed, CINAHL and Ichushi databases were searched for relevant articles that met the inclusion criteria through February 2023. Mortality, IFI rate, discontinuation rate of antifungal therapy and incidence of abnormal hepatic function were evaluated. The discontinuation rate was defined as the percentage of therapy discontinuations due to adverse events. The control group included patients who received other antifungal agents.

Results

Of the 1784 citations identified for screening, 10 studies with an overall total of 3037 patients enrolled. Isavuconazole was comparable with the control group in mortality and IFI rate in the treatment and prophylaxis of IFIs, respectively (mortality, odds rate (OR) 1.11, 95% confidential interval (CI) 0.82–1.51; IFI rate, OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.49–2.12). Isavuconazole significantly reduced the discontinuation rate in the treatment (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.26–3.07) and incidence of hepatic function abnormalities in the treatment and prophylaxis, compared with the control group (treatment, OR 2.31, 95% CI 1.41–3.78; prophylaxis, OR 3.63, 95% CI 1.31–10.05).

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis revealed that isavuconazole was not inferior to other antifungal agents for the treatment and prophylaxis of IFIs, with substantially fewer drug‐associated adverse events and discontinuations. Our findings support the use of isavuconazole as the primary treatment and prophylaxis for IFIs.
Pain and related suffering reduce attention toward others
Authors: González‐Roldán Ana María , Bustan Smadar , Kamping Sandra , Flor Herta , Anton Fernand
Published: June 2023

Background

It has been proposed that the expression of pain‐related suffering may lead to an enhanced focus on oneself and reduced attention toward the external world. This study aimed at investigating whether experimentally induced painrelated suffering may lead persons to withdraw into themselves, causing a reduced focus on external stimuli as reflected by impaired performance in a facial recognition task and heightened perception of internal stimuli measured by interoceptive awareness.

Methods

Thirty‐two participants had to recognize different emotional facial expressions (neutral, sad, angry, happy), or neutral geometrical figures under conditions of no pain, low, and high prolonged pain intensities. Interoceptive accuracy was measured using a heartbeat‐detection task prior to and following the pain protocol.

Results

Males but not females were slower to recognize facial expressions under the condition of high painful stimulation compared to the condition of no pain. In both, male and female participants, the difficulty in recognizing another person's emotions from a facial expression was directly related to the level of suffering and unpleasantness experienced during pain. Interoceptive accuracy was higher after the pain experiment. However, neither the initial interoceptive accuracy nor the change were significantly related to the pain ratings.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that long‐lasting and intense painful stimuli, which induce suffering, lead to attentional shifts leading to withdrawal from others. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the social dynamics of pain and pain‐related suffering.
Optimization of VO2 and VCO2 outputs for the calculation of resting metabolic rate using a portable indirect calorimeter
Authors: Leal‐Martín Javier , Mañas Asier , Alfaro‐Acha Ana , García‐García Francisco José , Ara Ignacio
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to compare the Cosmed K5 portable indirect calorimeter, using the mixing chamber mode and face mask, with a stationary metabolic cart when measuring the resting metabolic rate (RMR) and to derive fitting equations if discrepancies are observed. Forty‐three adults (18–84 years) were assessed for their RMR for two 30‐min consecutive and counterbalanced periods using a Cosmed K5 and an Oxycon Pro. Differences among devices were tested using paired sample Student's t‐tests, and correlation and agreement were assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficients, intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland–Altman plots. Forward stepwise multiple linear regression models were performed to develop fitting equations for estimating differences among devices when assessing oxygen uptake (VO2diff, mL·min−1) and carbon dioxide production (VCO2diff, mL·min−1). Furthermore, the Oxycon Pro was tested before being confirmed as a reference device. Significant differences between devices were found in most metabolic and ventilatory parameters, including the primary outcomes of VO2 and VCO2. These differences showed an overestimation of the Cosmed K5 in all metabolic outcomes, except for Fat, when compared to the Oxycon Pro. When derived fitting equations were applied (VO2diff − 139.210 + 0.786 [weight, kg] + 1.761 [height, cm] – 0.941 [Cosmed K5 VO2, mL·min−1]; VCO2diff − 86.569 + 0.548 [weight, kg] + 0.915 [height, cm] – 0.728 [Cosmed K5 VCO2, mL·min−1]), differences were minimized, and agreement was maximized. This study provides fitting equations which allow the use of the Cosmed K5 for reasonably optimal RMR determinations.