bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertical eDNA distribution of cold‐water fishes in response to environmental variables in stratified lake
Authors: Fukumori Kayoko , Kondo Natsuko I. , Kohzu Ayato , Tsuchiya Kenji , Ito Hiroshi , Kadoya Taku
Published: March 2024

In summer, the survival zones of cold‐water species are predicted to narrow by both increasing water temperatures from the surface and by expanding hypoxic zones from the lake bottom. To examine how the abundance of cold‐water fishes changes along environmental gradients, we assessed the vertical environmental DNA (eDNA) distributions of three salmonid species which may have different water temperature tolerances during both stratification and turnover periods using quantitative PCR (qPCR). In addition, we examined on the vertical distribution of diverse fish fauna using an eDNA metabarcoding assay. The results suggested that the kokanee salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) eDNA were abundant in deep, cold waters. On the other hand, rainbow trout (O. mykiss) eDNA were distributed uniformly throughout the water column, suggesting that they may have high water‐temperature tolerance compared with kokanee salmon. The eDNA concentrations of masu salmon (O. masou) were below the detection limit (i.e., <10 copies μL−1) at all stations and depths and hence could not be quantified during stratification. Together with the finding that the eDNA distributions of other prey fish species were also constrained vertically in species‐specific ways, our results suggest that climate change will result in substantial changes in the vertical distributions of lake fish species and thus affect their populations and interactions.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Is There a Common Pathway?
Authors: Saei Ghare Naz Marzieh , Ghasemi Vida , Amirshekari Shabahang , Ramezani Tehrani Fahimeh
Published: March 2024

Objective

Little is known about how polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study aimed to review the existing literature regarding the association between PCOS or its symptoms and complications with IBS.

Methods

In this review, studies that investigated the proposed cross‐link between features of PCOS and IBS were included. This review collectively focused on recent findings on the mechanism and novel insight regarding the association between IBS and PCOS in future clinical practice. An electronic search of PubMed, Scopus, Epistemonikos, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar was performed. We did not restrict the study setting and publication date.

Results

The existing evidence has not completely answered the question of whether there is an association between PCOS and IBS and vice versa. Six case–control studies (793 women with PCOS and 547 women in the control group) directly assessed the association between PCOS and IBS. The prevalence of IBS among women with PCOS in these studies has ranged from 10% to 52% compared with 5%–50% in control groups. Evidence suggested the common pathways may have contributed to the interaction between IBS and PCOS, including metabolic syndrome, sex hormone fluctuation, dysregulation of neurotransmitters, psychological problems and environmental and lifestyle factors. To date, it is still ambiguous which of the mentioned components largely contributes to the pathogenesis of both.

Conclusion

Although limited evidence has shown a higher prevalence of IBS in women with PCOS, there are several potential, direct and common indirect pathways contributing to the development of both IBS and PCOS.
A Simple Device for Automated Mixing of Heterogeneous Solid‐Liquid Reactions During In‐Situ Monitoring by NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Gao Yuan , Hall Andrew M. R. , Fohn Nicole A. , King Edward J. , Mitchell Lloyd A. L. , Steedman George A. , Lloyd‐Jones Guy C.
Published: March 2024

In‐situ NMR spectroscopy can provide valuable insight into chemical reactions, including detailed information on reaction kinetics and thus mechanism. The application of in‐situ NMR techniques to heterogeneous reactions has so far been limited by the requirement for efficient mixing, which is challenging within the confines of a standard NMR spectrometer. We report an automated plunger‐based device for the mixing of heterogeneous solid‐liquid reactions conducted within a 5 mm tube in a standard NMR probe, allowing reaction kinetics and speciation to be monitored in‐situ. The system has been tested by measuring the kinetics for three diverse reactions and comparison of these with the reaction velocities measured by routine ex‐situ analysis after sampling. The effect of key parameters including plunger design, plunger velocity, solid settling time, and mixing‐to‐acquisition time ratio are explored to determine the optimum parameters for combining efficient mixing with spectral quality. With adaptation, the device may also be suitable for benchtop NMR.
Mental fatigue impairs padel‐specific psychomotor performance in youth‐elite male players
Authors: Díaz‐García Jesús , Habay Jelle , Rubio‐Morales Ana , de Wachter Jonas , García‐Calvo Tomás , Roelands Bart , Van Cutsem Jeroen
Published: March 2024

While the interest and professionalization of padel around the world, and the importance of mental fatigue in sport science literature are both on the rise, not much is known about how mental fatigue impacts padel‐specific performance. Forty‐eight male elite youth players (18 ± 2 y) participated in this randomized counterbalanced crossover study. The players visited the laboratory on three separate occasions: familiarization, control (i.e., 30‐min documentary), and mental fatigue (i.e., 30‐min incongruent Stroop) condition. The participants' perceived mental fatigue, vigilance (i.e., Psychomotor Vigilance Test) and response inhibition (i.e., Stroop task) were assessed as markers of mental fatigue. The Padel accuracy was evaluated using a validated padel‐specific performance task that includes the usage of different strokes (i.e., drive, drive volley, bandeja, and drive attack after the use of the glass). All these variables were assessed pre‐ and post‐ both the control and mentally fatiguing task. A condition × time interaction was found for perceived mental fatigue, the Stroop performance and PVT reaction time (p < 0.001) and for padel‐specific accuracy on all strokes (p < 0.001). The perceived level of mental fatigue increased, while PVT reaction time and Stroop performance (i.e., amount of words) were impaired in time only in the mental fatigue condition. The accuracy of all padel strokes was significantly impaired from pre to post only in the mental fatigue condition (p < 0.050). In conclusion, mental fatigue impairs padel‐specific accuracy in young elite male padel players. Consequently, we recommend coaches to consider the level of mental fatigue during padel trainings and competitions.
Development and evaluation of the psychometric properties of a new measure of athlete insomnia: Insomnia in Response to Sports‐related Stress Test questionnaire
Authors: Nédélec Mathieu , Chauvineau Maxime , Martinent Guillaume
Published: March 2024

To develop and validate the Insomnia in Response to Sports‐related Stress Test (IRSST) questionnaire, a new specific instrument with the goal of sensitively measuring vulnerability to sport‐specific stressful situations among elite athletes. Five hundred and thirty‐one competitive elite athletes (mean age = 17.6 ± 4.4 years) completed the Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test (FIRST) questionnaire and the IRSST, a six‐item questionnaire developed to assess the level of sleep disturbance in response to the commonly experienced sport‐specific stressful situations. A development and validation process including substantive, structural, and external stages was used in the present study. One eigenvalue of the exploratory factor analyses was greater than 1.0 (i.e., 2.91, 48.52% of explained variance) whereas the scree test provided evidence for a one‐factor solution, with all the six items achieving a loading of 0.40 or higher on the factor. Cronbach alpha was 0.77 and provided evidence for the reliability of the IRSST score. The correlation between IRSST and FIRST scores was 0.47 (p < 0.001, moderate effect size). These results provide strong evidence for construct validity, indicating that the IRSST is a promising scale for assessing the likelihood of sleep disruption due to sports‐related stressful situations. The results of reliability and correlational analyses provided further evidence of the promising psychometric properties of the IRSST. We believe that the IRSST could provide to the sport and sleep science communities a sleep screening tool for use in this unique population.
ER‐stress response in retinal Müller glia occurs significantly earlier than amyloid pathology in the Alzheimer's mouse brain and retina
Authors: Palko Sarah I. , Benoit Marc R. , Yao Annie Y. , Mohan Royce , Yan Riqiang
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) pathogenesis is thought to begin up to 20 years before cognitive symptoms appear, suggesting the need for more sensitive diagnostic biomarkers of AD. In this report, we demonstrated pathological changes in retinal Müller glia significantly earlier than amyloid pathology in AD mouse models. By utilizing the knock‐in NLGF mouse model, we surprisingly discovered an increase in reticulon 3 (RTN3) protein levels in the NLGF retina as early as postnatal day 30 (P30). Despite RTN3 being a canonically neuronal protein, this increase was noted in the retinal Müller glia, confirmed by immunohistochemical characterization. Further unbiased transcriptomic assays of the P30 NLGF retina revealed that retinal Müller glia were the most sensitive responding cells in this mouse retina, compared with other cell types including photoreceptor cells and ganglion neurons. Pathway analyses of differentially expressed genes in glia cells showed activation of ER stress response via the upregulation of unfolded protein response (UPR) proteins such as ATF4 and CHOP. Early elevation of RTN3 in response to challenges by toxic Aβ likely facilitated UPR. Altogether, these findings suggest that Müller glia act as a sentinel for AD pathology in the retina and should aid for both intervention and diagnosis.
EGFR overexpression and macrophage infiltration correlate with poorer prognosis in HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancer via STAT6 signaling
Authors: Lee Huai‐Pao , Li Chia‐Jung , Lee Ching‐Chih
Published: March 2024

Background

The prevalence of HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is higher in Asian countries. Patients with HPV‐negative OPC suffer poor outcomes. Multi‐omics analysis could provide researchers and clinicians with more treatment targets for this high‐risk group. We aimed to explore the prognostic significance of EGFR overexpression and macrophage infiltration in OPC, especially HPV‐negative OPC in this study.

Methods

EGFR alternation was evaluated with TCGA, PanCancer Atlas through cBioProtal. EGFR mRNA expression in HPV‐negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma was analyzed using the Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER 2.0). We also examined EGFR/STAT6/MRC1 expression in paraffin‐embedded tissues from a p16‐negative OPC cohort. The correlation between EGFR expression and macrophage activation was explored using Person's correlation coefficient. The impact of biomarkers or macrophage infiltration on 5‐year overall survival and recurrence‐free survival were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves.

Results

EGFR alteration rate was 15%, 13%, and 0% for HPV‐negative HNSCC (excluding OPC), HPV‐negative OPC, and HPV‐positive OPC. High EGFR expression was associated with increased tumor infiltration of immune cells, such as macrophages. We observed positive correlations between EGFR, STAT6, and MRC1 expression in p16‐negative OPC. Higher MRC1 expression was associated with poorer survival rates.

Conclusions

There is strong correlation between EGFR overexpression and M2 polarization in patients with p16‐negative OPC. Immunotherapy with or without EGFR inhibitor could be considered in these high‐risk patients.
Do women perceive incivility from men as selective? Examining main effects, coping responses, and boundary conditions
Authors: Lopez‐Alvarez Grisel , Cardador M. Teresa , Restubog Simon Lloyd D.
Published: March 2024

Women are more likely than men to be targets of incivility in the workplace. Scholars have referred to this pattern as selective incivility and suggest that incivility directed toward women—that is, selective incivility—is a form of modern sexism in the workplace. However, it remains unclear whether women themselves make sense of incivility from men as a form of gender bias, and when such perceptions shape whether women engage in unique responses to incivility perceived as selective. Drawing on social identity theory, we develop a conceptual model to better understand these relationships. Across two studies with working women, we show that women perceive male‐instigated incivility as selective. Further, our findings show that women are more likely to engage in problem‐focused‐responses (i.e., direct confrontation and formal reporting), rather than emotion‐focused responses (i.e., avoidance) in response to incivility perceived as selective and that these coping responses are, at times, moderated by the frequency of incivility. Overall, our research advances the literature on incivility, selective incivility, and gender bias at work, offers practical implications for managers seeking to foster workplace inclusion, and suggests novel directions for future research.
Pharmacokinetics‐Based Pediatric Dose Evaluation and Optimization Using Saliva – A Case Study
Authors: Anliker‐Ort Marion , Rodieux Frédérique , Ziesenitz Victoria C. , Atkinson Andrew , Bielicki Julia A. , Erb Thomas O. , Gürtler Nicolas , Holland‐Cunz Stefan , Duthaler Urs , Rudin Deborah , Haschke Manuel , van den Anker John , Pfister Marc , Gotta Verena
Published: March 2024

Understanding pharmacokinetics (PK) in children is a prerequisite to determine optimal pediatric dosing. As plasma sampling in children is challenging, alternative PK sampling strategies are needed. In this case study we evaluated the suitability of saliva as alternative PK matrix to simplify studies in infants, investigating metamizole, an analgesic used off‐label in infants. Six plasma and 6 saliva PK sample collections were scheduled after a single intravenous dose of 10 mg/kg metamizole. Plasma/saliva pharmacometric (PMX) modeling of the active metabolites 4‐methylaminoantipyrine (4‐MAA) and 4‐aminoantipyrine (4‐AA) was performed. Various reduced plasma sampling scenarios were evaluated by PMX simulations. Saliva and plasma samples from 25 children were included (age range, 5–70 months; weight range, 8.7–24.8 kg). Distribution of metamizole metabolites between plasma and saliva was without delay. Estimated mean (individual range) saliva/plasma fractions of 4‐MAA and 4‐AA were 0.32 (0.05–0.57) and 0.57 (0.25–0.70), respectively. Residual variability of 4‐MAA (4‐AA) in saliva was 47% (28%) versus 17% (11%) in plasma. A simplified sampling scenario with up to 6 saliva samples combined with 1 plasma sample was associated with similar PK parameter estimates as the full plasma sampling scenario. This case study with metamizole shows increased PK variability in saliva compared to plasma, compromising its suitability as single matrix for PK studies in infants. Nonetheless, rich saliva sampling can reduce the number of plasma samples required for PK characterization, thereby facilitating the conduct of PK studies to optimize dosing in pediatric patients.
Clinical outcomes and risk factors for immune recovery and all‐cause mortality in Latin Americans living with HIV with virological success: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Castillo‐Rozas Gabriel , Tu Shengxin , Luz Paula Mendes , Mejia Fernando , Sierra‐Madero Juan , Rouzier Vanessa , Shepherd Bryan E. , Cortes Claudia P.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Immune reconstitution following antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation is crucial to prevent AIDS and non‐AIDS‐related comorbidities. Patients with suppressed viraemia who fail to restore cellular immunity are exposed to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality during long‐term follow‐up, although the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. We aim to describe clinical outcomes and factors associated with the worse immune recovery and all‐cause mortality in people living with HIV (PLWH) from Latin America following ART initiation.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using the CCASAnet database: PLWH ≥18 years of age at ART initiation using a three drug‐based combination therapy and with medical follow‐up for ≥24 months after ART initiation and undetectable viral load were included. Patients were divided into four immune recovery groups based on rounded quartiles of increase in CD4 T‐cell count at 2 years of treatment (<150, [150, 250), [250, 350] and >350 cells/mm3). Primary outcomes included all‐cause mortality, AIDS‐defining events and non‐communicable diseases that occurred >2 years after ART initiation. Factors associated with an increase in CD4 T‐cell count at 2 years of treatment were evaluated using a cumulative probability model with a logit link.

Results

In our cohort of 4496 Latin American PLWH, we found that patients with the lowest CD4 increase (<150) had the lowest survival probability at 10 years of follow‐up. Lower increase in CD4 count following therapy initiation (and remarkably not a lower baseline CD4 T‐cell count) and older age were risk factors for all‐cause mortality. We also found that older age, male sex and higher baseline CD4 T‐cell count were associated with lower CD4 count increase following therapy initiation.

Conclusions

Our study shows that PLWH with lower increases in CD4 count have lower survival probabilities. CD4 increase during follow‐up might be a better predictor of mortality in undetectable PLWH than baseline CD4 count. Therefore, it should be included as a routine clinical variable to assess immune recovery and overall survival.
Ultrafiltration polyanionic poly (3‐sulfopropyl methacrylate) membranes with enhanced antifouling and water flux
Authors: Khan Raja Muhammad Asif , Nasir Habib , Mahmood Azhar , Iqbal Mudassir , Janjua Hussnain A. , Ahmad Nasir M.
Published: March 2024

Polyethersulfone (PES) membranes are prevalent in the field of water treatment owing to their exceptional separation efficiency, robust mechanical properties, and resistance to chemical degradation. Nevertheless, these membranes are prone to fouling, resulting in a decrease in both flux and ultrafiltration efficiency. In the present study, PES membranes are blended with poly (3‐Sulfopropyl Methacrylate) (PSPMA) in various weight percentages (0%–3%) to improve their antifouling and ultrafiltration properties. The physicochemical properties of the blended membranes, including surface morphology, contact angle, hydrophilicity and surface energy are evaluated. The findings indicate that incorporation PSPMA results in an enhancement of the hydrophilic properties and surface charge of the PES membranes, assessed by employing Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) as a representative protein. Modified blended membranes display greater Flux Recovery Ratio (FRR%) and exhibit superior fouling resistance. Under the same experimental conditions (0.2 MPa applied pressure), a pure water flux of 154.18 L·m−2·h−1 for PES/PSPMA membrane found substantially greater than pure PES membrane (103.52 L·m−2·h−1) along with Total Fouling Ratio (TFR) of 36% and 64.9% respectively. Exceptional antimicrobial efficacy for modified membranes is revealed against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) using disc diffusion technique rendering them well‐suited for water treatment applications.
Outcomes of critically ill children with pre‐existing mental health conditions
Authors: Krawiec Conrad , Cash Morgan , Ceneviva Gary , Tian Zizhong , Zhou Shouhao , Thomas Neal J.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Critically ill children with pre‐existing mental health conditions may have an increased risk of poor health outcomes.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate if pre‐existing mental health conditions in critically ill pediatric patients would be associated with worse clinical outcomes, compared to children with no documented mental health conditions.

Methods

This retrospective observational cohort study utilized the TriNetX electronic health record database of critically ill subjects aged 12–18 years. Data were analyzed for demographics, pre‐existing conditions, diagnostic, medication, procedural codes, and mortality.

Results

From a dataset of 102 027 critically ill children, we analyzed 1999 subjects (284 [14.2%] with a pre‐existing mental health condition and 1715 [85.8%] with no pre‐existing mental health condition). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that death within one year was associated with the presence of pre‐existing mental health conditions (odds ratio 8.97 [3.48–23.15], P < 0.001), even after controlling for the presence of a complex chronic condition.

Interpretation

The present study demonstrates that the presence of pre‐existing mental health conditions was associated with higher odds of death within 1 year after receiving critical care. However, the confidence interval was wide and hence, the findings are inconclusive. Future studies with a larger sample size may be necessary to evaluate the true long‐term impact of children with pre‐existing mental health conditions who require critical care services.
Expanding the shelf life of chicken fillets by the use of polylactic acid (PLA) active films: An investigation of orange oil antibacterial potential
Authors: Yildiz Eda , Aydogdu Emir Ayca
Published: March 2024

In this study, orange oil was incorporated into biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) at various concentrations (1.25%, 1.875%, 2.5%, and 3.75% w/v) to develop potential antimicrobial food packages. Increasing orange oil concentration caused a gradual increase in the films' opacity values, making them more appropriate for packaging of foods having a potential to be affected from UV‐light. Independent of orange oil concentration, the water vapor permeability of the films decreased. While orange oil incorporation did not alter thermal stability of the active films, a slight reduction in glass transition and melting temperature values was observed. The antimicrobial activity of the films was examined on the most common food‐borne pathogens (E. coli, S. aureus), and it is only the film containing 3.75% w/v (PLA_3) that showed an inhibitory activity on both microorganisms. Finally, the shelf life of the chicken fillets packed with neat PLA (PLA_0) and PLA_3 films was compared, and PLA_3 increased the shelf life up to day‐9.

Highlights

Various concentrations of orange oil were used to develop active polylactic acid (PLA) films.

Opacity of the films increased with increasing oil concentration.

Incorporation of orange oil resulted in decreasing water vapor permeability.

Orange oil worsened both tensile strength and elongation at break of films.

PLA_3 inhibited the growth of microorganisms and extended the shelf life of chicken fillet.
Individual, organizational, and policy strategies to enhance the retention and a sense of belonging for health care professionals in rehabilitation medicine
Authors: Silver Julie K. , Fleming Talya K. , Ellinas Elizabeth H. , Silver Emily M. , Verduzco‐Gutierrez Monica , Bryan Katherine M. , Flores Laura E. , Sarno Danielle L.
Published: March 2024

The retention of physicians and other health care professionals in rehabilitation medicine is a critical issue that affects patients' access to care and the quality of the care they receive. In the United States and globally, there are known shortages of clinicians including, but not limited to, physicians, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech‐language pathologists. These shortages are predicted to worsen in the future. It is known that attrition occurs in a variety of ways such as a clinician reducing work hours or effort, taking a position at another organization, leaving the field of medicine altogether, stress‐related illness, and suicide. Retention efforts should focus on stay factors by creating a positive culture that supports a sense of belonging as well as addressing a myriad of push and pull factors that lead to attrition. In this commentary, we provide a roadmap that includes examples of stay strategies for individuals and organizations to adopt that are aimed at enhancing the retention of rehabilitation medicine professionals.
VOC‐based detection of prostate cancer using an electronic nose and ion mobility spectrometry: A novel urine‐based approach
Authors: Heers Hendrik , Chwilka Oliver , Huber Johannes , Vogelmeier Claus , Koczulla Andreas Rembert , Baumbach Jörg Ingo , Boeselt Tobias
Published: March 2024

Background

Many diseases leave behind specific metabolites which can be detected from breath and urine as volatile organic compounds (VOC). Our group previously described VOC‐based methods for the detection of bladder cancer and urinary tract infections. This study investigated whether prostate cancer can be diagnosed from VOCs in urine headspace.

Methods

For this pilot study, mid‐stream urine samples were collected from 56 patients with histologically confirmed prostate cancer. A control group was formed with 53 healthy male volunteers matched for age who had recently undergone a negative screening by prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal exam. Headspace measurements were performed with the electronic nose Cyranose 320TM. Statistical comparison was performed using principal component analysis, calculating Mahalanobis distance, and linear discriminant analysis. Further measurements were carried out with ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) to compare detection accuracy and to identify potential individual analytes. Bonferroni correction was applied for multiple testing.

Results

The electronic nose yielded a sensitivity of 77% and specificity of 62%. Mahalanobis distance was 0.964, which is indicative of limited group separation. IMS identified a total of 38 individual analytical peaks, two of which showed significant differences between groups (p < 0.05). To discriminate between tumor and controls, a decision tree with nine steps was generated. This model led to a sensitivity of 98% and specificity of 100%.

Conclusions

VOC‐based detection of prostate cancer seems feasible in principle. While the first results with an electronic nose show some limitations, the approach can compete with other urine‐based marker systems. However, it seems less reliable than PSA testing. IMS is more accurate than the electronic nose with promising sensitivity and specificity, which warrants further research. The individual relevant metabolites identified by IMS should further be characterized using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry to facilitate potential targeted rapid testing.
Some mathematical characteristics in sparse control for linear time‐varying systems
Authors: Mai Heng , Yin Zhaoyang
Published: March 2024

The existence, solution structure, and equivalence of sparse control for linear time‐varying systems are investigated. We proved the existence of the optimal solution of sparse control for the linear time‐varying systems. By using the non‐smooth maximum principle, we are given the necessary conditions for the sparse control optimality for linear time‐varying systems. We proved that the optimal solution of sparse control taking values of and 0. Under the normality of the linear time‐varying systems, we proved an equivalence theorem between the sparse control and optimal control. Numerical examples are included to illustrate the effectiveness of the sparse control for linear time‐varying systems.
WheTLHLoc 4W: Small‐scale inspection ground mobile robot with two tracks, two rotating legs, and four wheels
Authors: Bruzzone Luca , Nodehi Shahab Edin , Fanghella Pietro
Published: March 2024

WheTLHLoc 4W is the second version of a hybrid leg–wheel–track small‐scale ground mobile robot, developed for surveillance and inspection applications. It differs from its predecessor, WheTLHLoc 2W, in two main aspects: the number of wheels (four instead of two), and the new leg design. The overall size of the robot varies depending on the configuration: 500 × 420 × 140 mm (length × width × height) in tracked mode with lowered legs, 315 × 420 × 310 mm in tracked mode with raised legs, and 430 × 420 × 260 mm in wheeled mode. The robot is sufficiently small to explore narrow spaces, both indoors and outdoors, switching between wheeled locomotion on compact surfaces and tracked locomotion on irregular and yielding terrain. Due to its small length, the robot can stand on one tread of a stair. Nevertheless, it is capable of climbing stairs, and the step height limit has been augmented from 165 mm to 180 mm (+9.1%) with respect to the first version, keeping constant the robot overall size. This enhancement has been achieved through a mechanical redesign of the two rotating legs: each leg now features a pair of smaller wheels, actuated by the same actuator through a gear train, instead of a single larger wheel. The significant increase in the maximum step height expands the robot's capabilities for indoor environments, as stairs with a rise higher than 180 mm are extremely uncommon. The paper discusses the mechanical design of WheTLHLoc 4W, the trajectory planning for step/stair climbing, and provides an analytical comparison between the novel architecture and the first version in terms of stability against overturn and slippage. These analytical results are then experimentally verified. The findings demonstrate that the new leg design not only increases the maximum step height (+9.1%), but also reduces the minimum friction coefficient required for successful stair climbing (−19.1% for the maximum step).
Organic consumption as a means to achieve sustainable development goals and agenda 2063
Authors: Mkhize Sandile , Ellis Debbie
Published: March 2024

As the global population approaches 10 billion by 2050, addressing sustainable food production is imperative for achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 – Zero Hunger, SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, and Agenda 2063's Aspiration 1 for inclusive growth and sustainable development in Africa. This qualitative study explored South African consumers' perceptions of organic food using an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) model. Emphasising health perspectives, it investigates implications for SDGs and Agenda 2063. Employing non‐probability snowball sampling, 25 semi‐structured interviews reached data saturation. Thematic analysis revealed that while health and environmental benefits of organic food are recognised, many consumers do not perceive organic food as inherently healthier. The study underscores the need for improved communication and consumer education to align perceptions with sustainability goals and foster a prosperous future and achievement of Agenda 2063.
Photoactivatable Xanthone (PaX) Dyes Enable Quantitative, Dual Color, and Live‐Cell MINFLUX Nanoscopy
Authors: Remmel Michael , Matthias Jessica , Lincoln Richard , Keller‐Findeisen Jan , Butkevich Alexey N. , Bossi Mariano L. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: March 2024

The single‐molecule localization concept MINFLUX has triggered a reevaluation of the features of fluorophores for attaining nanometer‐scale resolution. MINFLUX nanoscopy benefits from temporally controlled fluorescence (“on”/“off”) photoswitching. Combined with an irreversible switching behavior, the localization process is expected to turn highly efficient and quantitative data analysis simple. The potential in the recently reported photoactivable xanthone (PaX) dyes is recognized to extend the list of molecular switches used for MINFLUX with 561 nm excitation beyond the fluorescent protein mMaple. The MINFLUX localization success rates of PaX560, PaX+560, and mMaple are quantitatively compared by analyzing the effective labeling efficiency of endogenously tagged nuclear pore complexes. The PaX dyes prove to be superior to mMaple and on par with the best reversible molecular switches routinely used in single‐molecule localization microscopy. Moreover, the rationally designed PaX595 is introduced for complementing PaX560 in dual color 561 nm MINFLUX imaging based on spectral classification and the deterministic, irreversible, and additive‐independent nature of PaX photoactivation is showcased in fast live‐cell MINFLUX imaging. The PaX dyes meet the demands of MINFLUX for a robust readout of each label position and fill the void of reliable fluorophores dedicated to 561 nm MINFLUX imaging.
Selective comparison of verifiable online voting systems
Authors: Finogina Tamara , Cucurull Juan Jordi , Costa Nuria
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to provide a guideline for identifying the most suitable online voting system under the given requirements and acceptable tradeoffs. We have selected twelve (more or less) well‐known online voting systems that rely on distinct cryptographic mechanisms for achieving security. For each of the systems, we summarized the key architectural and cryptographic ideas behind their design. Then, we analyzed the required trust assumptions for achieving the three most important security properties (i.e., verifiability, divided between cast‐as‐intended, recorded‐as‐cast, and tallied‐as‐recorded verifiabilities, privacy, and receipt‐freeness). To make a fair comparison, we did our analysis based on identical security definitions. Note that we selected wildly known and well‐accepted definitions, which are scheme‐neutral, to avoid any biases. Also, we discussed some of the most critical practical aspects of those systems, such as–the necessity for secure or anonymous channels, reliance on secure printer facilities and so forth. To facilitate the comparison, we suggested a unified naming convention for system elements based on their roles and functions. Then, based on the unified naming convention, we compared all twelve online voting systems for both the security properties and practical aspects. Finally, we summarized our observations regarding patterns and dependencies we observed, provided guidelines for selecting the online voting system, and gave recommendations regarding system design. We hope our work contributes to the online literature and facilitates the process of selecting the most suitable e‐voting system depending on the requirements of a specific election.
Presenting a theory of change for cultivating institutional‐level SoTL cultures through a cross‐institutional community of practice
Authors: Abbot Sophia , Lukes Laura , Henry Dayna , Wheeler Lindsay
Published: March 2024

In this chapter, the authors describe the theory of change behind a regional cross‐institutional community of practice (CoP) for educational developers seeking to strengthen their institution's SoTL culture and increase faculty SoTL production by providing institution‐level support initiatives and programming.
Epilogue
Authors: Chick Nancy L.
Published: March 2024

This epilogue provides a commentary on the insights to be gained from this volume of New Directions for Teaching and Learning, with an emphasis on how communities, in a variety of sizes, forms, and contexts, are a cornerstone of the SoTL experience.
In hospital outcomes of autologous and implant‐based breast reconstruction in patients with diabetes mellitus: A population‐based study of 2015–2020 national inpatient sample
Authors: Li Renxi , Ranganath Bharat
Published: March 2024

Background

Breast reconstruction encompasses autologous (ABR) and implant‐based breast reconstruction (IBR) each with its own sets of potential complications. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with breast reconstruction complications, although most of the studies did not differentiate between the reconstruction procedures. This study conducted a population‐based study examining impact of DM on inhospital outcomes in ABR and IBR.

Methods

Patients underwent ABR or IBR were identified in National Inpatient Sample from Q4 2015 to 2020. A 1:2 propensity score matching was used to address differences in demographics, hospital characteristics, primary payer status, comorbidities, and reconstruction staging between DM and non‐DM patients. In hospital outcomes were assessed separately in ABR and IBR.

Results

There were 997 (7.68%) DM and 11,987 (92.32%) non‐DM patients in ABR. Meanwhile, 1325 (7.38%) DM and 16,638 (92.62%) non‐DM patients underwent IBR. DM cohorts in ABR and IBR were matched to 1930 and 2558 non‐DM patients, respectively. After matching, DM patients in both ABR and IBR had higher risks of renal complications (ABR, 3.73% vs. 1.76%, p < 0.01; IBR, 1.83% vs. 0.78%, p = 0.01) and longer length of stay (ABR, p = 0.01; IBR, p = 0.04). In ABR, DM patients had higher respiratory complications (2.82% vs. 1.19%, p < 0.01), excessive scarring (2.72% vs. 1.55%, p = 0.03), and infection (2.42% vs. 1.14%, p = 0.01), while in IBR, DM patients had higher hemorrhage/hematoma (5.40% vs. 3.40%, p < 0.01) and transfer out (1.52% vs. 0.78%, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

DM was associated with distinct sets of inhospital complications in ABR and IBR, which can be valuable for preoperative risk stratification and informing clinical decision‐making for DM patients.
Einflussfaktoren auf die gesellschaftliche Wahrnehmung und Akzeptanz der landwirtschaftlichen Nutztierhaltung aus Sicht des Lebensmitteleinzelhandels
Authors: Harms Regina , Gier-Reinartz Nadine R. , Kenning Peter
Published: March 2024

Die Transformation zu einer nachhaltigen landwirtschaftlichen Nutztierhaltung erfordert grundlegende gesellschaftspolitische Veränderungen, die von allen Interessensgruppen mitgetragen werden müssen. Da der Lebensmittelhandel eine Schlüsselposition in der Nachhaltigkeitstransformation einnimmt, ist eine Integration seiner Perspektive unabdingbar. Diese qualitative Studie präsentiert die Ergebnisse einer Befragung von Vertreterinnen und Vertretern des Lebensmitteleinzelhandels. Sie beleuchtet die verschiedenen Herausforderungen, denen dieser Sektor gegenübersteht und die sein Verhalten und Management beeinflussen. Diese Herausforderungen umfassen hauptsächlich sich verändernde Konsummuster der Verbraucherinnen und Verbraucher, die Digitalisierung sowie politische und rechtliche Entwicklungen. In methodischer Hinsicht verdeutlicht die Breite der gefundenen Ergebnisse, dass branchenspezifische Interviews eine gute Möglichkeit darstellen, um die Handelsperspektive differenziert zu erfassen und dieser zentralen Stakeholdergruppe Ausdruck zu verleihen.
Das RealLabor als Methode der Transformation zur systematischen Entwicklung und prototypischen Erprobung innovativer Marktleistungen für nachhaltigeren Konsum − ein Zwischenbericht
Authors: Gier-Reinartz Nadine R. , Harms Regina , Kenning Peter
Published: March 2024

Als wesentliche ökonomische Akteure haben auch Verbraucherinnen und Verbraucher Einfluss auf die ökonomische Entwicklung der landwirtschaftlichen Nutztierhaltung. Durch ihr Kaufverhalten bestimmen sie im Kollektiv maßgeblich über die Refinanzierung etwaiger Transformationskosten. Ein Aspekt, der das Kaufverhalten beeinflusst, ist der unmittelbare und konkrete Entscheidungskontext am Point of Sale, der auch die Preisgestaltung sowie die Warenverfügbarkeit umfasst. Viele Studien vernachlässigen den konkreten Entscheidungskontext am Point of Sale, weshalb sich möglicherweise geäußerte Einstellungen nur teilweise im beobachtbaren Kaufverhalten widerspiegeln. Es verfestigt sich der Eindruck, dass “die” Verbraucherinnen und Verbraucher zwar regelmäßig höhere Standards für die landwirtschaftliche Nutztierhaltung fordern, die entsprechenden Produkte aber nicht kaufen. Um diese Diskrepanz zwischen Einstellung und Verhalten zu überwinden scheint es sinnvoll mit allen relevanten Akteuren gemeinsam Möglichkeiten der Kommunikation- und Informationsgestaltung am Point of Sale zu entwickeln und zu erproben. Diese Möglichkeiten bieten Reallabore, die im Rahmen des SocialLab II-Projektes konkretisiert wurden. Das daraus resultierende “RealLabor” kann als transformative Methodik genutzt werden, um Umsetzungsprozesse zu beobachten, zu begleiten und zu gestalten, um möglichst eine nachhaltige Veränderung in der Gesellschaft bewirken und etablieren zu können. Dieser Zwischenbericht skizziert das RealLabor als Methode der Transformationsforschung zur systematischen Entwicklung und prototypischen Erprobung von innovativen Marktleistungen für den nachhaltigen Konsum.
Chemotactic Interactions of Scenedesmus sp. and Azospirillum brasilense Investigated by Microfluidic Methods
Authors: Greipel Erika , Nagy Krisztina , Csákvári Eszter , Dér László , Galajda Peter , Kutasi József
Published: March 2024

The use of algae for industrial, biotechnological, and agricultural purposes is spreading globally. Scenedesmus species can play an essential role in the food industry and agriculture due to their favorable nutrient content and plant-stimulating properties. Previous research and the development of Scenedesmus-based foliar fertilizers raised several questions about the effectiveness of large-scale algal cultivation and the potential effects of algae on associative rhizobacteria. In the microbiological practice applied in agriculture, bacteria from the genus Azospirillum are one of the most studied plant growth-promoting, associative, nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Co-cultivation with Azospirillum species may be a new way of optimizing Scenedesmus culturing, but the functioning of the co-culture system still needs to be fully understood. It is known that Azospirillum brasilense can produce indole-3-acetic acid, which could stimulate algae growth as a plant hormone. However, the effect of microalgae on Azospirillum bacteria is unclear. In this study, we investigated the behavior of Azospirillum brasilense bacteria in the vicinity of Scenedesmus sp. or its supernatant using a microfluidic device consisting of physically separated but chemically coupled microchambers. Following the spatial distribution of bacteria within the device, we detected a positive chemotactic response toward the microalgae culture. To identify the metabolites responsible for this behavior, we tested the chemoeffector potential of citric acid and oxaloacetic acid, which, according to our HPLC analysis, were present in the algae supernatant in 0.074 mg/ml and 0.116 mg/ml concentrations, respectively. We found that oxaloacetic acid acts as a chemoattractant for Azospirillum brasilense.
How to follow the guidelines, when the appropriate fluid is missing?
Authors: Brossier David W. , Goyer Isabelle , Morice Claire , Alsohime Fahad , Mayberry Huw F. , Porcheret Florence , Tume Lyvonne N. , Valla Frederic V. ,   on behalf of the European Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPNIC) IVMFT group, Beldjilali Sophie , Chiusolo Fabrizio , Costa Leonardo , Didier Capucine , Ilia Stavroula , Joram Nyandat L , Jotterand Chaparro Corinne , Kneyber Martin CJ , Kühlwein Eva , Lopez Jorge , López-Herce Jesus , Marino Luise V. , Mehmeti Fortesa , Mierzewska-Schmidt Magdalena , Miñambres Rodríguez MarIa , Moullet Clémence , Pappachan John V. , Reis Boto Leonor , Rooze Shancy , Schlapbach Luregn J , Tekguc Hakan , Tziouvas Konstantinos , Verbruggen Sascha CAT
Published: March 2024

Intravenous maintenance fluid therapy (IV-MFT) is probably the most prescribed drug in paediatric hospital care. Recently paediatric societies have produced evidence-based practice guidelines that recommend the use of balanced isotonic fluid when prescribing IV-MFT in both acute and critical paediatric care. Unfortunately, the applicability of these guidelines could be called into question when a ready-to-use glucose-containing balanced isotonic fluid is not available. The main objective of this study was to describe the availability of glucose-containing balanced isotonic fluids in European and Middle Eastern paediatric acute and critical care settings. This work is an ancillary study of the survey dedicated to IV-MFT practices in the paediatric acute and critical care settings in Europe and Middle East, a cross-sectional electronic 27-item survey, emailed in April–May 2021 to paediatric critical care physicians across 34 European and Middle East countries. The survey was developed by an expert multi-professional panel within the European Society of Peadiatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPNIC). Balanced isotonic fluid with glucose 5% was available for only 32/153 (21%) responders. Balanced isotonic fluid with glucose 5% was consistently available in the UK (90%) but not available in France, Greece, The Netherlands and Turkey.

    Conclusion: Ready-to-use isotonic balanced IV solutions containing glucose in sufficient amount exist but are inconsistently available throughout Europe. National and European Medication Safety Incentives should guarantee the availability of the most appropriate and safest IV-MFT solution for all children.

What is Known:• Intravenous maintenance fluid therapy (IV-MFT) is probably the most prescribed drug in paediatric hospital care.• Balanced isotonic fluid is recommended when prescribing IV-MFT in both acute and critical paediatric care.

What is New:• Balanced isotonic fluid with glucose 5% is available for less than 25% of the prescribers in Europe and the Middle East. Availability of balanced isotonic fluid with glucose 5% varies from one country to another but can also be inconsistent within the same country.• Clinicians who have access to a ready-to-use balanced isotonic fluid with glucose 5% are more likely to consider its use than clinicians who do not have access to such an IV solution.
Effectiveness of community participation in Mangrove restoration: the evidence from northern Sri Lanka
Authors: Sathiyamoorthy Sarujan , Sakurai Takeshi
Published: March 2024

As a result of the past failures in centralized management, community-based management approach was evolved as a better alternative in Mangrove management. However, effectiveness of community-based Mangrove management is remained as an important policy question with limited empirical evidence. This study aims to empirically investigate the effectiveness of community participation on Mangrove restoration using the village-level data collected from lagoon-based fishing villages in northern Sri Lanka during 2009–2020. In addition to the field data, this study adopts satellite imagery data of Landsat-7 and Landsat-8 to estimate the extent of Mangrove cover as an indicator of Mangrove restoration performance. The results show that community participation has a significant and positive impact on Mangrove restoration, suggesting the importance of strengthening community management practices for future Mangrove management.
Genetic variation among Brassica rapa subsp. rapa genotypes growing in Malatya/Türkiye
Authors: Küçük Rabia , Sevindik Emre , Çayır Muhammed Ebrar , Murathan Zehra Tuğba
Published: March 2024

In this study, the genetic variation of 18 Brassica rapa subsp. rapa genotypes grown in Malatya was determined using the inter simple sequence repeat - polymerase chain reaciton (ISSR-PCR). Using nine ISSR primers, a total of 73 bands were obtained and the polymorphism rate was 91.78%. The mean polymorphism information content value was determined as 0.3319. The mean gene diversity (H) value was determined as 0.4276. The mean major allele frequency value was determined as 0.6531. Similarity index values were determined to be between 0.0928 and 1.0924. The unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) dendrogram consisted of two groups. Principal component analysis analysis and UPGMA dendrogram were compatible. In addition, the groups in the phylogenetic trees were partially compatible with geographical distribution. Our results suggest that ISSR-PCR analysis is a suitable approach for breeding Brassica rapa subsp. rapa genotypes and developing different cultivars.