bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fretting fatigue fracture behavior of Ti6Al4V dovetail joint specimens at 500°C treated with nanosecond stacked femtosecond laser impact strengthening
Authors: Niu Fan , Chen Tai‐Li , Wang Zhi‐Guo , Wang Wei , Gong Xiu‐Fang , Fang Xiu‐Yang , Ni Jing , Cai Zhen‐Bing
Published: September 2024

The high‐temperature fretting fatigue damage characteristics of dovetail specimens strengthened by nanosecond laser (NL) and nanosecond combined femtosecond laser (F‐NL) were investigated. The results show that the fretting fatigue life of the NL strengthened sample (NL sample) is improved by 211.2% compared to the base metal samples (BM sample). The lifetime of the nanosecond combined femtosecond strengthened sample (F‐NL sample) was increased by 319.6%. It was attributed to the strengthening introducing hardened layers, residual compressive stress field, and high density of dislocations. The combined strengthening process reduces the surface roughness of the NL strengthened surfaces, while the strengthening influence layer is further increased. The fracture morphology shows that the crack source of the strengthened specimen has changed from multi‐source sprouting to single‐source sprouting, and the crack source sprouted on the subsurface. The fatigue strip morphology similarly confirms that a reduction in the crack propagation rate occurs.
Emergent Properties and Robustness of Species–Habitat Networks for Global Terrestrial Vertebrates
Authors: Hao Xiyang , Jung Martin , Zhang Yiwen , Yan Chuan
Published: September 2024

Aim

Habitat loss is the dominant cause of biodiversity decline around the world, yet the complexity and stability of terrestrial assemblages related to suitable habitats have been almost unknown on a global scale.

Location

Global.

Time Period

Contemporary.

Major Taxa Studied

Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Amphibia.

Methods

We constructed gridded maps of species–habitat networks of terrestrial vertebrates based on global species distributions and a recently developed habitat type dataset. Then, we investigated the biogeographic patterns of emergent network structures and analysed network robustness to habitat loss by simulating habitat removals on a global scale.

Results

We found that, compared with reptiles and amphibians, the species–habitat networks of mammals and birds were characterised by higher habitat diversity, connectance and modularity. All four taxonomical groups have high robustness globally, but after adjusting for species and habitat diversity, we found a variation of surplus and deficiency of network structures and robustness. Temperature and precipitation contributed most to relative network robustness globally, whereas geographical and human population factors played important roles in scattered regions on all continents.

Main Conclusions

Overall, we provide novel insights into the biogeographic patterns of species–habitat connections through a network approach, which can help to identify gaps for reestablishing species–habitat links to improve conservation outcomes.
Biogeographical Variation in Termite Distributions Alters Global Deadwood Decay
Authors: Law Stephanie J. , Flores‐Moreno Habacuc , Parr Catherine L. , Adu‐Bredu Stephen , Bunney Katherine , Cornwell William K. , Evouna Ondo Fidèle , Powell Jeff R. , Quansah Gabriel W. , Robertson Mark P. , Zanne Amy E. , Eggleton Paul
Published: September 2024

Aim

Termites are a crucial group of macroinvertebrates regulating rates of deadwood decomposition across tropical and subtropical regions. When examining global patterns of deadwood decay, termites are treated as a homogenous group. There exist key biogeographical differences in termite distribution. One such clear distinction is the distribution of fungus‐growing termites (FGT, subfamily Macrotermitinae). Considering that climate will have shaped termite distribution and ecosystem processes, we evaluate the roles of termite distribution (presence of FGT) and climate (aridity) on global patterns in deadwood decay.

Location

Between 46° N‐43° S and 175° E‐85° W.

Time Period

Present (between 2016 and 2021).

Major Taxa Studied

Termites (Blattodea: Termitoidae).

Methods

We add salient data to an existing global dataset on deadwood decomposition, including new data from five existing sites and seven additional African sites. We analyse a dataset spanning six continents, 16 countries and 102 experimental sites. Firstly, we evaluate climatic differences (mean annual temperature, mean annual precipitation and mean annual aridity) between sites with and without FGT. Secondly, using aridity as a single comparative climate metric between sites that accounts for temperature and precipitation differences, we examine the interaction between FGT and aridity on global patterns of termite deadwood discovery and decay through multivariate logistic and linear regressions.

Results

Termite‐driven decay and wood discovery increased with aridity; however, responses differed between FGT and NFGT sites. Wood discovery increased with aridity in FGT sites only, suggesting a greater role of FGT to deadwood decay in arid environments. On average, both termite discovery and decay of deadwood were approximately four times greater in regions with FGT compared with regions without FGT.

Main Conclusions

Termite discovery and decay of deadwood is climate dependent, and higher decay may be through greater discovery of deadwood in FGT sites. Inclusion of biogeographical differences in termite distribution could potentially alter current and future global estimates of deadwood turnover.
CROI 2024 BHIVA working group summary
Authors: Barber Tristan J. , Clarke Amanda , Fox Ashini , Mackie Nicola E. , Sabin Caroline , Waters Laura J.
Published: September 2024

The Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) is usually the most significant HIV conference of the year in terms of basic and clinical scientific output. CROI 2024 in Denver, USA, felt very much back to ‘business as usual’ following COVID‐19 disruptions that had impacted preceding years, but also felt more global and outward‐ facing. The British HIV Association supports a working group to attend CROI annually and deliver feedback in the UK. This article summarizes the highlights from that meeting.
Comparative analysis of methods for measuring root canal curvature based on periapical radiography: A laboratory study
Authors: Hartmann Rafael Chies , Ferraz Eduardo Silva , Weissheimer Theodoro , Poli de Figueiredo Jose Antônio , Rossi‐Fedele Giampiero , Gomes Maximiliano Schünke
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate the agreement between six currently available periapical radiography‐based methods for measuring the root canal curvatures in mesial roots of mandibular first molars, assessed by two examiners with different proficiency levels.

Methodology

Non‐endodontically treated mesial roots of 41 human mandibular first molars were radiographed using the parallelling technique. Two independent observers (a specialist in endodontics and radiology and a final‐year dental student) assessed their root canal curvature using the methodologies described by Schneider (1971, Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology, 32, 271), Weine (1982, Endodontic therapy), Berbert and Nishiyama (1994, Revista Gaúcha de Odontología, 356), Luiten et al. (1995, Journal of Endodontics, 21, 26), Hankins and ElDeeb (1996, Journal of Endodontics, 22, 123) and Pettiette et al. (1999, Journal of Endodontics, 25, 230). Intra‐ and inter‐examiner reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient. The differences in curvature angle measured by the different methods were compared using the one‐way anova for repeated measures test, followed by Tukey's post hoc analysis. The effect was calculated using the Cohen's d method. To determine the agreement between methods, the Bland–Altman analysis was used. The significance level was set at 5%.

Results

Agreement for the observers was excellent (>0.81) for the six methods considered. For the angle comparisons between methods, the maximum differences were for Schneider versus Weine (35.77°) and Luiten versus Hankins (35.14°), whilst the highest percentage of angles with a difference >10° were Weine versus Luiten and Berbert versus Pettiette (90%) and the comparison Weine versus Hankins presented with the lowest frequency (15%). Excellent agreement was found for five comparisons: Weine versus Luiten (0.940), Berbert versus Pettiette (0.917), Weine versus Pettiette (0.907), Luiten versus Pettiette (0.904) and Berbert versus Luiten (0.812). Compared to Schneider's method, the other methods showed a tendency of increasing difference as the angles became more acute. The other methods exhibited linear differences, remaining constant for smaller and larger angles.

Conclusions

Reliability was excellent for all methods assessed separately. Maximum differences in curvature angles were found when comparing Schneider versus Weine and Luiten versus Hankins. Excellent agreement was found for Weine versus Luiten, Berbert versus Pettiette, Weine versus Pettiette, Luiten versus Pettiette and Berbert versus Luiten. In the presence of dilacerations, the method by Schneider was less sensitive.
27‐Hydroxycholesterol contributes to hypercholesterolemia‐associated aggravation of apical periodontitis in ovariectomized rats and raloxifene counteracts its action
Authors: Wang H.‐W. , Yang C.‐N. , Kok S.‐H. , Hong C.‐Y. , Shun C.‐T. , Lai E. H.‐H. , Cheng S.‐J. , Lin H.‐Y. , Wu F.‐Y. , Lin S.‐K.
Published: September 2024

Aim

The influence of hypercholesterolemia on the development of apical periodontitis (AP) is inconclusive. Recent studies revealed that cholesterol metabolite 27‐hydoxycholesterol (27HC) can affect cellular responses to bacterial infections and oestrogen status and raloxifene may influence its action. Herein, we aimed to examine the impact of 27HC on production of inflammatory mediators by macrophages and the regulatory function of raloxifene. The contribution of 27HC to AP development and the therapeutic effect of raloxifene were evaluated in a rat model.

Methods

Murine macrophages J774 cells were used. The expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was examined by Western blot. The concentrations of C‐C motif chemokine ligand (CCL) 2 and 27HC were assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Colorimetric assay was used to evaluate cholesterol levels. Experimental AP was induced in ovariectomized (OVX) or un‐operated rats receiving high‐fat/high‐cholesterol diet (HFHCD) or normal diet (ND). Micro‐computed tomography and immunohistochemistry were employed to evaluate disease severity and the therapeutic effect of raloxifene.

Results

Cholesterol enhanced 27HC production in macrophages. 27HC induced iNOS and CCL2 synthesis by macrophages and estradiol suppressed the responses. In our animal model of AP, HFHCD plus OVX significantly augmented serum and lesion tissue levels of 27HC (p < .05 versus the ND group). Lesion size, infiltration of CD68+ cells, and iNOS+ monocytes were increased in parallel with 27HC accumulation. Raloxifene inhibited pro‐inflammatory effects of 27HC on macrophages and suppressed AP progression in HFHCD/OVX rats (p < .05 versus the vehicle control group).

Conclusions

Our results suggested that 27HC contributes to AP aggravation associated with hypercholesterolemia. Oestrogen deficiency may both enhance 27HC production and exacerbate its downstream action.
Implications of drug resistance in leprosy: disease course, reactions and the use of novel drugs
Authors: Sardana Kabir , Muddebihal Aishwarya , Scollard David M. , Khurana Ananta
Published: September 2024

Leprosy remains a significant neglected tropical disease despite the goal of elimination having been achieved in various endemic nations over the past two decades. Reactional episodes complicate the disease course, resulting in deformities and disability. The main aim of treatment is to kill Mycobacterium leprae and decrease the bacterial load, which could help prevent further bacilli transmission. A major concern in breaking the chain of transmission and possibly for recurrent reactions is the role of drug‐resistant bacilli. Though some data is available on the background prevalence of drug resistance in leprosy, there is a paucity of studies that look for resistance specifically in leprosy reactions. Administration of long‐term steroids or immunosuppressants for chronic and recurrent responses in the presence of drug resistance has the twin effect of perpetuating the multiplication of resistant bacilli and encouraging the dissemination of leprosy. The increasing trend of prescribing second‐line drugs for leprosy or type 2 reactions without prior assessment of drug resistance can potentially precipitate a severe public health problem as this can promote the development of resistance to second‐line drugs as well. A comprehensive multicenter study, including drug resistance surveillance testing in cases of reactions, is necessary, along with the current measures to stop the spread of leprosy. Here, we have detailed the history of drug resistance in leprosy, given pointers on when to suspect drug resistance, described the role of resistance in reactions, methods of resistance testing, and the management of resistant cases with second‐line therapy.
Pregnancy outcomes in Australian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Isojima Sakiko , Li Ning , Rowson Saskia , Kandane‐Rahtnayake Rangi , Koelmeyer Rachel , Morand Eric F. , Hoi Alberta
Published: September 2024

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affects women, with the onset of disease typically around the childbearing years.

Aims

This study examines the frequency and risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) in an Australian cohort, and any disease flares during pregnancy and post partum.

Methods

Female patients with SLE enrolled in the Australian Lupus Registry and Biobank (ALRB) between January 2007 and June 2019 were studied. Self‐reported pregnancy history, including adverse foetal or maternal outcomes, was collected at the time of enrolment and updated as appropriate. Baseline demographics, clinical parameters, medication exposure and disease activity were collected. Factors associated with APO were examined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Pregnancy history was available in 278 patients; 30% were nulliparous. Most pregnancies occurred before the diagnosis of SLE. Patients who had pregnancies after SLE diagnosis had an earlier age of diagnosis, and had fewer pregnancies. The APO rate was 44.3% in the overall cohort, with most presenting as prematurity with or without foetal growth restriction. Women with APO were also diagnosed with SLE at a younger age and had a higher prevalence of anti‐cardiolipin antibodies and hypocomplementemia. Early age of SLE diagnosis was a significant independent risk factor for APO. No increase in disease flare was observed in those who experienced APO during the observation period of ALRB.

Conclusion

This study shows a considerable incidence of APO in patients with SLE, emphasising the need for pre‐pregnancy counselling and collaboration between maternal‐foetal medicine specialists and rheumatologists, especially for women diagnosed with SLE at a younger age.
Prevalence of Influenza B/Yamagata Viruses From Season 2012/2013 to 2021/2022 in Italy as an Indication of a Potential Lineage Extinction
Authors: Marchi Serena , Bruttini Marco , Milano Giovanna , Manini Ilaria , Chironna Maria , Pariani Elena , Manenti Alessandro , Kistner Otfried , Montomoli Emanuele , Temperton Nigel , Trombetta Claudia Maria
Published: September 2024

Background

Influenza B/Yamagata viruses exhibited weak antigenic selection in recent years, reducing their prevalence over time and requiring no update of the vaccine component since 2015. To date, no B/Yamagata viruses have been isolated or sequenced since March 2020.

Methods

The antibody prevalence against the current B/Yamagata vaccine strain in Italy was investigated: For each influenza season from 2012/2013 to 2021/2022, 100 human serum samples were tested by haemagglutination inhibition (HAI) assay against the vaccine strain B/Phuket/3073/2013. In addition, the sequences of 156 B/Yamagata strains isolated during the influenza surveillance activities were selected for analysis of the haemagglutinin genome segment.

Results

About 61.9% of the human samples showed HAI antibodies, and 21.7% had protective antibody levels. The prevalence of antibodies at protective levels in the seasons between the isolation of the strain and its inclusion in the vaccine was between 11% and 25%, with no significant changes observed in subsequent years. A significant increase was observed in the 2020/2021 season, in line with the increase in influenza vaccine uptake during the pandemic. Sequence analysis showed that from 2014/2015 season onward, all B/Yamagata strains circulating in Italy were closely related to the B/Phuket/2013 vaccine strain, showing only limited amino acid variation.

Conclusions

A consistent prevalence of antibodies to the current B/Yamagata vaccine strain in the general population was observed. The prolonged use of a well‐matched influenza vaccine and a low antigenic diversity of B/Yamagata viruses may have facilitated a strong reduction in B/Yamagata circulation, potentially contributing to the disappearance of this lineage.
Development and Preliminary Validation of a Central Venous Access Device‐Associated Skin Impairment Classification Tool Using Modified Delphi and Clinimetric Methods
Authors: Xu Hui (Grace) , Campbell Jill , Takashima Mari , Larsen Emily , Coyer Fiona , August Deanne , Dean Anna , Pitt Colleen , Griffin Bronwyn , Marsh Nicole , Rickard Claire M. , Ullman Amanda
Published: September 2024

Background

An evidence and consensus‐based instrument is needed to classify central venous access device‐associated skin impairments.

Aim

The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the central venous access device‐associated skin impairment classification tool.

Design

A two‐phase modified Delphi study.

Methods

This two‐phase study consisted of a literature review, followed by the development and validation of a classification instrument, by experts in the fields of central venous access devices and wound management (Phase 1). The instrument was tested (Phase 2) using 38 clinical photographs of a range of relevant skin impairments by the same expert panel. The expert panel consisted of registered nurses who were clinical researchers (n = 4) and clinical experts (n = 3) with an average of 24 years of nursing and research experience and 11 years of experience in wound management. Measures to assess preliminary content validity and inter‐rater reliability were used.

Results

The instrument consists of five overarching aetiological classifications, including contact dermatitis, mechanical injury, infection, pressure injury and complex clinical presentation, with 14 associated subcategory diagnoses (e.g., allergic dermatitis, skin tear and local infection), with definitions and signs and symptoms. High agreement was achieved for preliminary scale content validity and item content validity (I‐CVI = 1). Inter‐rater reliability of aetiologies was high. The overall inter‐rater reliability of individual definitions and signs and symptoms had excellent agreement.

Conclusion

The development and preliminary validation of this classification tool provide a common language to guide the classification and assessment of central venous access device‐associated skin impairment.

Impact

The comprehensive and validated classification tool will promote accurate identification of central venous access device‐associated skin impairment by establishing a common language for healthcare providers. The availability of this tool can reduce clinical uncertainty, instances of misdiagnosis and the potential for mismanagement. Consequently, it will play a pivotal role in guiding clinical decision‐making, ultimately enhancing the quality of treatment and improving patient outcomes.

Reporting Method

The Guidance on Conducting and Reporting Delphi Studies (CREDES) was adhered to.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Does International Financial Reporting Standards adoption improve or impede comparability? New evidence from Chinese dual‐class firms
Authors: Guan Jenny Xinjiao , Ye Kangtao , Zhang Shanshan , Zhang Xiao‐Jun
Published: September 2024

We analyze a unique set of Chinese firms to isolate the impact of accounting standards on financial reporting comparability and capital markets. From 2001 to 2006, these companies simultaneously maintained two sets of financial statements because of their dual‐class share structure: statements for A‐shares followed Chinese Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), whereas those for B‐shares followed International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). We find a disparity in financial reporting comparability between these two accounting standards: IFRS produce less comparable information than Chinese GAAP. We also find that the disparity in comparability is related to fair value accounting, especially when corporate governance is weak.
Climate Interacts With Diversification Rate in Determining Species Richness and Trait Diversity of Tetrapods in a Global Hotspot
Authors: Moroti Matheus de T. , Skeels Alexander , da Silva Fernando R. , Provete Diogo B.
Published: September 2024

Aim

Two classes of mechanisms offer opposing explanations for biodiversity patterns: Equilibrium and nonequilibrium dynamics. While not necessarily mutually exclusive, studies investigating their relative support have shown mixed results. Thus, contrasting these mechanisms across multiple taxa in the same geographic area can provide valuable insights into their role in explaining different biodiversity facets. Here, we evaluated which variables representing these dynamics best explain functional and taxonomic diversity of four tetrapod clades in a global hotspot.

Location

Atlantic forest.

Taxon

Terrestrial vertebrates.

Methods

We used climate, primary productivity and topography heterogeneity as proxy for equilibrium dynamics, and diversification rate and assemblage age as proxy for nonequilibrium dynamics. After that, we used spatially explicit structural equation models based on generalised least squares models to test how species richness and trait diversity are influenced by these dynamics processes. Furthermore, we spatialized the variables for each group and tested whether they were congruent.

Results

Diversification rate was a strong positive driver of species richness and trait diversity, while climate was both an indirect and direct negative driver of richness and trait diversity. Furthermore, we found a congruent pattern of richness between endotherms, but not between ectotherms. In contrast, the spatial distribution of trait diversity, assemblage age and diversification rate was distinct for each group.

Main Conclusion

High diversification rates and climatic conditions played a key role in determining trait diversity and species richness. In addition, species richness and trait diversity responded to the same variables across tetrapod lineages but showed different spatial patterns. This supports the idea that both dynamics operate together to explain community assembly at a regional scale. Our findings suggest that the dichotomy between these two classes of mechanisms may not sufficiently explain diversity patterns in biodiverse and climatically complex environments such as the Atlantic Forest.
Beyond TPACK: A case for foregrounding affect in technology rich 21st‐century teaching and learning
Authors: McLay Katherine Frances , Reyes Vicente Chua
Published: September 2024

Background

This research was motivated by noticing shortcomings in the TPACK framework, which does not take account of the affective dimension (e.g., emotions, moods, attitudes and values) of teaching and learning with and about technology, despite this being a key predictor of whether teachers incorporate technology into teaching and learning. Reimagining TPACK as TAPACK to explicitly engage with affect offers a way of leveraging the influential TPACK framework to foreground the affective domain and encourage preservice teachers (PSTs) towards meaningful technology integration in teaching and learning.

Objectives

The goal of this research is to encourage teacher educators to explicitly engage PSTs with the affective dimension of integrating technology into teaching and learning by sharing strategies from our own research and practice.

Methods

We deploy reflexive inquiry to draw on our experience teaching into technology focused teacher education courses to crystallize key shortcomings in the existing TPACK framework and suggest a possible way forward.

Results and Conclusions

Our research suggests that engaging explicitly with the affective dimension by incorporating affect into the TPACK framework to become TAPACK may enhance technology focused teacher education courses by supporting PSTs to develop positive affective orientation towards technology, thereby increasingly the likelihood that PSTs will integrate technology into their practice.
Decremental properties of a concealed nodoventricular pathway
Authors: Onuki Koumei , Nagashima Koichi , Matsunaga‐Lee Yasuharu , Fukunaga Masato , Hiroshima Kenichi , Ando Kenji , Scheinman Melvin M.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The decremental properties of the nodoventricular pathway (NVP) are uncertain.

Methods and Results

During short RP supraventricular tachycardia, a His‐refractory premature ventricular contraction (PVC) consistently terminated the tachycardia without atrial capture immediately after the PVC. Whereas a slightly earlier PVC failed to reset the subsequent His but terminated the tachycardia without atrial capture one cycle later.

Conclusion

These observations are diagnostic of slow‐fast atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) with a bystander concealed‐NVP and can be explained by decremental properties in the NVP itself; greater prematurity of the PVC resulted in more decremental conduction over the NVP, causing the AVNRT termination one cycle later.
Parent‐child interaction at age 5 months: genetic and environmental contributions and associations with later socio‐communicative development
Authors: Hardiansyah Irzam , Warreyn Petra , Ronald Angelica , Taylor Mark J. , Falck‐Ytter Terje
Published: September 2024

Background

Characteristics of parent‐child interaction (PCI) early in life have been associated with later development in the child. Twin studies can help to disentangle child contributions to parent‐child interaction, for example, by assessing the influence of the child's genetics on his/her social environment, which includes parental behaviour.

Methods

Infant twins from a community sample [354 monozygotic (MZ), 268 same‐sex dizygotic (DZ)] were assessed in terms of PCI at age 5 months. We used the classical twin design to map the aetiology of several parent and child PCI scales and their covariation. We investigated the relations between PCI and later parent‐rated child's social communication, language, and autistic traits at ages 2 and 3.

Results

Heritability was below 20% for all the included PCI traits. Unique (nonshared) environmental influences substantially overlapped across several PCI scales, suggesting that idiosyncrasies linked to each session shaped the scoring of several traits in a systematic way. Factor analysis revealed three uncorrelated latent factors, which were conceptualized as ‘child negative affect’, ‘positive affective interaction’, and ‘parent's supportive strategies’. Parents who were rated highly on ‘sensitive responsiveness’ at 5 months tended to rate their offspring higher in terms of socio‐communicative and language development and lower in terms of autistic traits in the second and third years of life.

Conclusions

This study maps the phenotypic and aetiological structure of PCI in early infancy and supports the view that parents' sensitive responsiveness towards their infant is associated with later developmental gains in several domains. We did not find strong evidence of any so‐called evocative genetic effects on parents’ behaviour. We discuss the results considering the general challenge for lab‐based observational PCI measures to capture the richness of parent‐child interaction.
Organizational factors associated with less use of restraints in older adults with dementia in acute care hospitals: A scoping review
Authors: Makino Mayumi , Kato Mayumi , Naruse Sanae , Yoshie Yukari , Eda Koji
Published: September 2024

Objective

Dementia affects more than 55 million people worldwide. Use of restraints for hospitalized older adults with dementia is a social issue that should be addressed systematically and should not depend on the characteristics of nurses. This study reviewed the literature on organizational factors associated with reducing use of restraints in older adults with dementia admitted to acute care hospitals.

Methods

A scoping review was performed. Three databases were searched for papers that met our eligibility criteria. Factors related to restraint reduction were extracted, and results were deduced. Through inductive analysis, subthemes were categorized according to similarities and differences, which were then integrated into broader themes.

Results

Sixteen studies were eligible for inclusion. The prevalence of restraints ranged from 5.1% to 80.0% depending on how the meaning of restraint was interpreted. The most common indications for restraints were history of falls and fall risk. Interdisciplinary screening for restraints was associated with reduced prevalence of restraints, with a 0.18‐fold (confidence interval [CI]: 0.12–0.24) reduction through use of a restraint decision flowchart and a 0.76‐fold (CI: 0.63–0.92) reduction through consultation with a psychiatrist. Interdisciplinary members included nurses, physicians, clinical psychologists, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, and therapists.

Conclusions

Research is needed to introduce and develop an interdisciplinary restraint decision‐making system and to test its effectiveness. Important factors in implementing alternatives to restraints are the harmful effects of restraints, expertise in dementia, regular education on alternative methods, an inpatient environment that ensures patient safety, and the development of human resources.
Barriers and facilitators to bridging the healthcare digital divide for the older adults: A qualitative research from patients in China
Authors: Liu Fei , Yin Xiaobing , Huang Yuting , Zhu Xiaoping
Published: September 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators underlying the healthcare digital divide by using qualitative methodologies, integrated with the Capabilities, Opportunities, Motivations, and Behaviors (COM‐B) as well as the Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) theoretical frameworks.

Methods

To conduct a thorough analysis, semi‐structured，in‐depth interviews were orchestrated among a cohort of older patients who had experiences with digital healthcare systems. Data were meticulously analyzed via Colaizzi's seven‐step methodological procedure.

Results

Nine barriers were elucidated, including physical limitation, inadequate training and support, self‐imposed denial, failure to rebuild the digital healthcare environment, equipment constraints, deficits in communication and feedback, skepticism regarding data accuracy and validity, sense of social deprivation, and network information boycott. Conversely, eleven facilitators were identified, encompassing peer modeling, availability of training and support, reconstructive efforts toward the digital healthcare environment, mandatory usage, familial influence, media impact, scientific publicity and education, enhancement of self‐efficacy, sense of social participation, perceived convenience, and access to healthful information.

Conclusion

Based on the COM‐B and BCW models, healthcare organizations may be able to improve their digital healthcare support systems (capabilities), technical design, network speed, and equipment configuration (opportunities), as well as focus on “human‐computer integration,” the parallel existence of digital technology and humanistic care, and taking into account the issues of information security, accuracy, and human rights equality (motivation) while benefiting the patients, in order to bridge the healthcare digital divide for the older adults.
Lack of a genetic risk continuum between pubertal timing in the general population and idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Authors: Plummer Lacey , Balasubramanian Ravikumar , Stamou Maria , Campbell Mark , Dewan Pranav , Bryant Nora , Salnikov Kathryn , Lippincott Margaret , Seminara Stephanie
Published: September 2024

Pubertal timing is a highly heritable trait in the general population. Recently, a large‐scale exome‐wide association study has implicated rare variants in six genes (KDM4C, MC3R, MKRN3, PDE10A, TACR3, and ZNF483) as genetic determinants of pubertal timing within the general population. Two of the genes (TACR3, MKRN3) are already implicated in extreme disorders of pubertal timing. This observation suggests that there may be a pervasive “genetic risk continuum” wherein genes that govern pubertal timing in the general population, by extension, may also be causal for rare Mendelian disorders of pubertal timing. Hence, we hypothesized that the four novel genes linked to pubertal timing in the population will also contribute to idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH), a genetic disorder characterized by absent puberty. Exome sequencing data from 1322 unrelated IHH probands were reviewed for rare sequence variants (RSVs) (minor allele frequency bins: <1%; <0.1%; <0.01%) in the six genes linked to puberty in the general population. A gene‐based rare variant association testing (RVAT) was performed between the IHH cohort and a reference public genomic sequences repository—the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD). As expected, RVAT analysis showed that RSVs in TACR3, a known IHH gene, were significantly enriched in the IHH cohort compared to gnomAD cohort across all three MAF bins. However, RVAT analysis of the remaining five genes failed to show any RSV enrichment in the IHH cohort across all MAF bins. Our findings argue strongly against a pervasive genetic risk continuum between pubertal timing in the general population and extreme pubertal phenotypes. The biologic basis of such distinct genetic architectures' merits further evaluation.
Deep Learning‐Based Image Classification and Segmentation on Digital Histopathology for Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Pirayesh Zeynab , Mohammad‐Rahimi Hossein , Ghasemi Nikoo , Motamedian Saeed‐Reza , Sadeghi Terme Sarrafan , Koohi Hediye , Rokhshad Rata , Lotfi Shima Moradian , Najafi Anahita , Alajaji Shahd A. , Khoury Zaid H. , Jessri Maryam , Sultan Ahmed S.
Published: September 2024

Background

Artificial intelligence (AI)‐based tools have shown promise in histopathology image analysis in improving the accuracy of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) detection with intent to reduce human error.

Objectives

This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated deep learning (DL) models for OSCC detection on histopathology images by assessing common diagnostic performance evaluation metrics for AI‐based medical image analysis studies.

Methods

Diagnostic accuracy studies that used DL models for the analysis of histopathological images of OSCC compared to the reference standard were analyzed. Six databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Embase, ArXiv, and IEEE) were screened for publications without any time limitation. The QUADAS‐2 tool was utilized to assess quality. The meta‐analyses included only studies that reported true positives (TP), true negatives (TN), false positives (FP), and false negatives (FN) in their test sets.

Results

Of 1267 screened studies, 17 studies met the final inclusion criteria. DL methods such as image classification (n = 11) and segmentation (n = 3) were used, and some studies used combined methods (n = 3). On QUADAS‐2 assessment, only three studies had a low risk of bias across all applicability domains. For segmentation studies, 0.97 was reported for accuracy, 0.97 for sensitivity, 0.98 for specificity, and 0.92 for Dice. For classification studies, accuracy was reported as 0.99, sensitivity 0.99, specificity 1.0, Dice 0.95, F1 score 0.98, and AUC 0.99. Meta‐analysis showed pooled estimates of 0.98 sensitivity and 0.93 specificity.

Conclusion

Application of AI‐based classification and segmentation methods on image analysis represents a fundamental shift in digital pathology. DL approaches demonstrated significantly high accuracy for OSCC detection on histopathology, comparable to that of human experts in some studies. Although AI‐based models cannot replace a well‐trained pathologist, they can assist through improving the objectivity and repeatability of the diagnosis while reducing variability and human error as a consequence of pathologist burnout.
Dream habits in a large cohort of preteens and their relation to sleep and nocturnal awakenings
Authors: Eichenlaub Jean‐Baptiste , Bouet Romain , Pinelli Mathieu , Portrat Sophie
Published: September 2024

The present study examined dream habits, and their relation to sleep patterns, in 1151 preteens (597 boys; 554 girls; 11.31 ± 0.62 years old). Dream questionnaires assessed the frequency of dream recall, nightmare, and lucid dream, as well as the intensity of emotions experienced in dreams. Sleep variables included sleep duration and efficiency, but also different measurements of nocturnal awakenings. Among the preteens, 49.21% of them reported that they recalled dreams several times a week or almost every morning over the past few months. In addition, 52.00% of the preteens reported that they experienced nightmares, and 45.48% lucid dreams, less than once a month or never over the past few months. No gender differences were observed in dream variables. Nocturnal awakenings were linked to all dream variables, while sleep duration and sleep efficiency were related to nightmare frequency and emotions in dreams. Importantly, sleep duration and sleep efficiency were not associated with dream recall nor lucid dream frequency, with Bayesian analyses supporting the null hypothesis. These findings offer a comprehensive understanding of preteens’ dreams and their connection to key sleep aspects.
Malignant transformation of an intraparenchymal hemangioma in the cervical spinal cord of a German shepherd dog
Authors: Korff Courtney P. , Nelissen Sophie , Todd‐Donato Amy B. , Miller Andrew D. , Davies Emma
Published: September 2024

An 8‐year‐old female spayed German shepherd dog was presented for evaluation of a 1‐week history of right thoracic limb monoparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified an intraparenchymal, T2 hypointense and T1 isointense, strongly heterogeneously contrast‐enhancing mass with moderate internal susceptibility artifact on T2* images at the level of the cranial extent of the C5 vertebral body. Euthanasia was elected after a rapid neurologic decline in the 24 hours after MRI. Necropsy and histopathology identified an intraparenchymal hemangiosarcoma arising from a hemangioma in the cervical spinal cord, with no evidence of neoplastic disease in any other examined organs. The spectrum of vasoproliferative disorders in the central nervous system in veterinary species has been codified recently, but hemangiosarcoma is considered metastatic to the central nervous system. Herein we describe the clinical, imaging, and histologic findings in a dog with a novel primary location of hemangiosarcoma in the cervical spinal cord.
Bidirectional reflectance distribution function measurements of characterized Apollo regolith samples using the visible oxford space environment goniometer
Authors: Curtis R. J. , Warren T. J. , Shirley K. A. , Paige D. A. , Bowles N. E.
Published: September 2024

A laboratory study was performed using the Visible Oxford Space Environment Goniometer in which the broadband (350–1250 nm) bidirectional reflectance distribution functions (BRDFs) of two representative Apollo regolith samples were measured, for two surface roughness profiles, across a range of viewing angles—reflectance: 0–70°, in steps of 5°; incidence: 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60°; and azimuthal: 0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, and 180°. The BRDF datasets were fitted using the Hapke BRDF model to (1) provide a method of comparison to other photometric studies of the lunar regolith and (2) to produce Hapke parameter values which can be used to extrapolate the BRDF to all angles. Importantly, the surface profiles of the samples were characterized using an Alicona 3D® instrument, allowing two of the free parameters within the Hapke model, φ and , which represent porosity and surface roughness, respectively, to be constrained. The study determined that, for , the 500–1000 μm size‐scale is the most relevant for the BRDF. Thus, it deduced the following “best fit” Hapke parameters for each of the samples: Apollo 11 rough— = 0.315 ± 0.021,  = 0.261 ± 0.007, and  = 0.039 ± 0.005 (with  = 21.28° and φ = 0.41 ± 0.02); Apollo 11 smooth— = 0.281 ± 0.028,  = 0.238 ± 0.008, and  = 0.032 ± 0.006 (with  = 13.80° and φ = 0.60 ± 0.02); Apollo 16 rough— = 0.485 ± 0.155,  = 0.155 ± 0.083, and  = 0.135 ± 0.007 (with  = 21.69° and φ = 0.55 ± 0.02); Apollo 16 smooth— = 0.388 ± 0.057,  = 0.063 ± 0.033, and  = 0.221 ± 0.011 (with  = 14.27° and φ = 0.40 ± 0.02). Finally, updated hemispheric albedo functions were determined for the samples, which can be used to set laboratory measured visible scattering functions within thermal models.
The poverty of postmodernist constructivism: And a case for naturalism out of Hume, Darwin, and Wittgenstein
Authors: Peckel Ariel
Published: September 2024

This essay develops a naturalist framework based on Hume, Darwin, and Wittgenstein against postmodernist constructivism. That framework claims universal features of human biology, cognition, and behavior to explain our cultural histories, running contrary to two core constructivist doctrines of postmodernist scholarship: mutual opacity and epistemic violence. Mutual opacity posits the incommensurability of systems rooted in differing contexts, cultures, and group identities, while epistemic violence morally impugns the extension of the knowledge claims of any such system beyond its strictly localized boundaries. This is the extension that universalist approaches, like naturalism, are recriminated against owing to their claims to discover encompassing standpoint‐independent and transcultural features of human constitution and modes of life. Comparative evaluation of these approaches exposes the failure of postmodernist constructivism to explain parallel practices, conventions, and institutions across human cultural histories, which universalist naturalism succeeds at, while moreover revealing how this failure undermines its agendas of social justice.
Diversity
Authors: Beckner Elizabeth
Published: September 2024

In this essay, the meaning of diversity is explored as it pertains to senior underrepresented minority (URM) faculty experiences. The experiences of senior URM faculty were gathered through the URM Senior Scholars Histories Project to bring more visibility to racist and sexist practices and to the lack of diversity among faculty within research universities. This brings into question the use of the term diversity in higher education, a term that is often used, but falls short of a clear definition and plan for its implementation for better serving faculty, staff, and students. Through a brief overview of the use of the term diversity in higher education, it becomes apparent that it has been used as a pretty word for nearly 50 years, despite tireless efforts to make real, transformative structural changes within higher education institutions. The question now is: where do we go from here and what can we do to build and create new ways of being that embrace diversity as the norm?
Mediterranean diet for the management of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in non‐Mediterranean, Western countries: What's known and what's needed?
Authors: Sualeheen Ayesha , Tan Sze‐Yen , Georgousopoulou Ekavi , Daly Robin M. , Tierney Audrey C. , Roberts Stuart K. , George Elena S.
Published: September 2024

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide, affecting 30% of the population in Western countries. MASLD is considered the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome, pathophysiologically underpinned by insulin resistance and frequently co‐exists with hypertension, central obesity and dyslipidaemia. Currently, safe and effective pharmacotherapies for MASLD are limited, making weight loss with lifestyle changes the mainstay therapy. A Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) has emerged as an effective dietary pattern for preventing and managing MASLD, but most studies have been conducted in Mediterranean countries, necessitating further investigation into its benefits in Western populations. Additionally, the effect of holistic multimodal lifestyle interventions, including physical activity combined with the MedDiet, is not well established. Finally, MASLD's widespread prevalence and rapid growth require improved accessibility to interventions. Digital health delivery platforms, designed for remote access, could be a promising approach to providing timely support to individuals with MASLD. This narrative review summarises the current evidence related to the effects of the MedDiet in Western, multicultural populations with MASLD. This includes a detailed description of the composition, prescription and adherence to dietary interventions in terms of how they have been designed and applied. The evidence related to the role of physical activity or exercise interventions prescribed in combination with the MedDiet for MASLD will also be reviewed. Finally, recommendations for the design and delivery of dietary and physical activity or exercise interventions to inform the design of future randomised controlled trials to facilitate the optimal management of MASLD are outlined.
SLC12A1 variant c.1684+1 G>A causes Bartter syndrome type 1 by promoting exon 13 skipping
Authors: Yang Wenke , Li Yanjun , Guo Zhenglong , Ren Yanxin , Huang Jianmei , Zhao Huiru , Liao Shixiu
Published: September 2024

Background

Bartter syndrome type 1, an autosomal recessive genetic disorder, is caused by pathogenic loss‐of‐function variants in the SLC12A1 gene. It is characterized by metabolic alkalosis and prenatal‐onset polyuria leading to polyhydramnios.

Methods

We identified pathogenic gene in a 12‐day‐old newborn boy with Bartter syndrome type 1 using whole‐exome sequencing. Sanger sequencing validated the identified variants. A minigene assay was performed to investigate the effect of a novel splice site variant on pre‐mRNA splicing.

Results

We found a compound heterozygous variants in the SLC12A1 gene, consisting of a known pathogenic missense mutation (NM_000338: c.769 G>A; p.Gly257Ser) and a novel splice site variant (c.1684+1 G>A). In silico predictions and an in vitro minigene splicing assay demonstrated that the splicing variant c.1684+1 G>A abolished a consensus splice donor site of SLC12A1 intron 13, resulting in complete exon 13 skipping, translational frameshift, and premature termination codon, ultimately leading to loss of SLC12A1 function.

Conclusion

Using a cell‐based in vitro assay, we revealed the aberrant effect of the pathogenic splicing variant SLC12A1 c.1684+1 G>A on pre‐mRNA splicing. Our findings expand the gene mutation spectrum of Bartter syndrome type 1, providing a basis for genetic diagnosis and the development of genetic medicines.

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