bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of carbon emissions sources on life expectancy in Asia and the Pacific region
Authors: Azam Muhammad , Adeleye Bosede Ngozi
Published: May 2023

This study aligns with the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 11, which aim to “ensure healthy lives and promote well‐being for all at all ages” and “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable”. The study objectives are to (i) explore the impact of different sources of carbon emissions on life expectancy; (ii) evaluate if the impact differs across income groups, and (iii) determine if life expectancy is persistent. It contributes to the health‐environment literature but differs from two standpoints. First, it uses two essential sources of carbon emissions: liquid and solid fuels. Second, it engages robust analyses comprising the full sample and sub‐samples of income groups to further interrogate this intrinsic relationship. For this purpose, an unbalanced sample of 36 countries from Asia and the Pacific region (2005–2010) is used, and for robust analyses, three econometric methods: bootstrap ordinary least squares (BOLS), instrumental variables (IV), and system generalized method of moments (GMM) are implemented. Empirical results reveal that: (1) liquid and solid fuel emissions exert significant negative outcomes, (2) liquid fuel emissions exhibit the most adverse effect, (3) life expectancy is persistent, and (4) impact of liquid and solid fuel emissions on life expectancy across the income groups is diverse. These findings suggest that the management authorities of Asia and the Pacific region need to devise prudent and effective policies concerning human health and carbon emissions while allocating sufficient budget to the health sector to rescue more lives and, thereby, lengthen the life expectancy in the region.
The first record of a Konservat‐Lagerstätten in which early post‐settlement stages of fossil archaeobalanids (Cirripedia: Balanomorpha) are preserved
Authors: KOČÍ Tomáš , GAŠPARIČ Rok , BUCKERIDGE John , KOČOVÁ VESELSKÁ Martina , ŠOSTER Aleš
Published: May 2023

A diverse sessile barnacle fauna from a Miocene shallow‐water deposit at Dolnja Stara vas in Slovenia is described. It includes the first descriptions of early post settlement juveniles of Actinobalanus sloveniensis attached to mangrove leaves. These represent three distinct growth phases, the earliest being interpreted as being less than 24 h post settlement, the others being 1 to 2 days post settlement. An assessment of their taphonomy is provided. Associated adult balanomorphs are attached to a variety of organic substrates, including mangrove leaves and branches, fragments of the conifers ?Taxodioxylon, Carapoxylon, pine cones, molluscs, and cetacean bones. The barnacles include A. sloveniensis, Amphibalanus venustus, and Perforatus perforatus—many with opercula retained within the shells. A. venustus retains some of the original shell color. This is the second record of barnacle–plant associations from the Central Paratethys from Kamnik and Trbovlje. The paleoecology and paleogeography of the site are discussed.
Distribution, habitat and population structure of the threatened Manning River helmeted turtle, Myuchelys purvisi
Authors: Chessman Bruce C. , Fielder Darren P. , Spark Philip H. , Steed Andrew C.
Published: May 2023

Many freshwater turtle species are threatened with extinction, but the implementation of effective conservation measures may be hindered by ignorance of their biology and ecology. We analysed the available monitoring data for a listed Endangered but poorly known species, the Manning River helmeted turtle (Myuchelys purvisi: Chelidae), to elucidate its geographic distribution and evaluate its relationships to broad‐scale environmental factors. We found M. purvisi to be common and widely distributed in the Manning River system, with a balanced population structure including a wide mix of size classes and a substantial juvenile component. The occurrence of the species was significantly positively associated with a larger stream size, which probably confers greater habitat availability and lower vulnerability to drying during drought. Mean carapace length was significantly lower in stream segments with higher average annual air temperature, suggesting that warmer conditions favour recruitment. However, occurrence and mean carapace length were not related to the proportion of conservation land in the immediate stream environs, suggesting that persistence of the species is not favoured simply by occurrence in protected areas, and threats may need active management. We provide some suggestions for further investigation of the species' ecology and vulnerability to potential threats.
Validation of predictive models for disease outcomes in paediatric ulcerative colitis: A multicentre prospective inception cohort
Authors: Atia Ohad , Klomberg Renz C. W. , de Ridder Lissy , Kemos Polychronis , Ruemmele Frank M. , Kang Ben , Choi Sujin , Choe Byung‐Ho , Kang Youra , Shouval Dror S. , Focht Gili , Ledder Oren , Lev‐Tzion Raffi , Carmon Natalie , Berger Tal David , Turner Dan , Croft Nicholas M. , Orlanski‐Meyer Esther
Published: May 2023

Background

Several studies have proposed models to predict disease outcomes in paediatric ulcerative colitis (UC), notably PROTECT, Schechter and PIBD‐ahead, but none has been validated by external cohorts

Aim

To explore these models in a prospective multicentre inception cohort

Methods

Children newly diagnosed with UC in 17 centres were followed at disease onset and 3 and 12 months thereafter, as well as at last visit. Outcomes included steroid‐free remission (SFR) and acute severe colitis (ASC).

Results

Of the 223 included children, 74 (34%), 97 (43%) and 52 (23%) presented with mild, moderate and severe disease, respectively. SFR rate was 35% at 3 months and 47% at 12 months (62% of those with mild disease at diagnosis vs. 41% in moderate–severe disease; p = 0.01). Thirty‐six (16%) children developed ASC during the first month after diagnosis, and 53 (24%) during the first year. The AUC of the PROTECT model for predicting SFR at 3 and 12 months was 0.78 [95% CI 0.65–0.92] and 0.57 [95% CI 0.47–0.66], respectively. The sensitivity/specificity/PPV/NPV of Schechter's criteria to predict sustained SFR at 12 months was 50%/60%/35%/74%. ASC was predicted only by the PUCAI score at diagnosis and at 3 months.

Conclusions

The PROTECT model had a good predictive utility for SFR at 3 months, but not at 12 months. The other predictive models did not achieve sufficient accuracy, which was far from that reported in the original studies. This highlights the necessity for external validation of any prediction model prior to its implementation into clinical practice.
Magnitude and drivers of plant diversity loss differ between spatial scales in Scania, Sweden 1957–2021
Authors: Kindlund Yasmine Karlsmo , Tyler Torbjörn
Published: May 2023

Questions

Changed land use, nitrogen deposition, climate change, and the spread of non‐native species have repeatedly been reported as the main drivers of recent floristic changes in northern Europe. However, the relevance of the geographical scale at which floristic changes are observed is less well understood and it has only rarely been possible to quantify biodiversity loss. Therefore, we assessed changes in species richness, species composition and mean ecological indicator values (EIVs) at three nested geographic scales during two different time periods, each ca 30 years, since the mid‐1900s.

Location

Two parishes in central Scania, southernmost Sweden.

Methods

We analyzed species presence/absence data from three inventories at ca 30‐year intervals over 1957–2021 and three geographic scales (157 m2, ca 7 km2 and ca 45 km2) to document temporal trends and differences between geographic scales in terms of species richness, species composition and mean EIVs.

Results

We found shifts in species composition across all geographical scales. However, the magnitude of biodiversity loss and the main drivers of these changes were scale‐dependent. At the smallest spatial scale, we saw a dramatic loss of plant biodiversity with local species richness in 2021 being only 48% of that of 1960. In contrast, at the larger geographic scales no significant changes in species richness were observed because species losses were compensated for by gains of predominantly non‐native species, which made up at least 78% of the new species richness. At the smallest spatial scale, changed land use (ceased grazing/mowing and intensified forestry) appeared as the main driver, while an increasing proportion of non‐native species, as well as climatic changes and increasing nitrogen loads appeared relatively more important at larger geographic scales.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the precarious situation for biodiversity in the region and at the same time the fundamental importance of geographic scale in studies of biodiversity change. Both the magnitude and drivers of changes may differ depending on the geographic scale and must be considered also when previously published studies are interpreted.
How do bipolar disease states affect positive and negative emotion processing? Insights from a meta‐analysis on the neural fingerprints of emotional processing
Authors: Förster Katharina , Maliske Lara Z. , Schurz Matthias , Henneberg Paula M. , Dannlowski Udo , Kanske Philipp
Published: May 2023

Background

Functional magnetic resonance imaging studies on emotion processing in patients with bipolar disorder (BD) show hyperactivity of limbic‐striatal brain areas and hypoactivity in inferior frontal areas compared to healthy participants. However, heterogeneous results in patients with different disease states and different valences of emotional stimuli have been identified.

Methods

To integrate previous results and elucidate the impact of disease state and stimulus valence, we conducted a systematic literature search for journal articles in the Web of Science Core Collection including MEDLINE databases and employed a coordinate‐based‐meta‐analysis of functional‐MRI studies comparing emotion processing in BD‐patients with healthy participants using seed‐based d mapping (SDM) to test for between‐subjects‐effects. We included 31 studies published before 11/2022 with a total of N = 766 BD‐patients and N = 836 controls.

Results

Patients with BD showed hyperactivated regions involved in salience processing of emotional stimuli (e.g., the bilateral insula) and hypoactivation of regions associated with emotion regulation (e.g., inferior frontal gyrus) during emotion processing, compared to healthy participants. A more detailed descriptive analysis revealed a hypoactive (anterior) insula in manic BD‐patients specifically for negative in comparison to positive emotion processing.

Discussion

This meta‐analysis corroborates the overall tenor of existing literature that patients with BD show an increased emotional reactivity (hyperactivity of salience‐processing regions) together with a lower (cognitive) control (hypoactivity of brain areas associated with emotion regulation) over emotional states. Our analysis suggests reduced interoceptive processing of negative stimuli in mania, pointing out the need for longitudinal within‐subject analyses of emotion processing.
Computer‐assisted bone augmentation, implant planning and placement: An in vitro investigation
Authors: Unger S. , Benic G. I. , Ender A. , Pasic P. , Hämmerle C. H. F. , Stadlinger B.
Published: May 2023

Aim

To assess in vitro the workflow for alveolar ridge augmentation with customised 3D printed block grafts and simultaneous computer‐assisted implant planning and placement.

Methods

Twenty resin mandible models with an edentulous area and horizontal ridge defect in the region 34–36 were scanned with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A block graft for horizontal ridge augmentation in the region 34–36 and an implant in the position 35 were digitally planned. Twenty block grafts were 3D printed out of resin and one template for guided implant placement were stereolithographically produced. The resin block grafts were positioned onto the ridge defects and stabilised with two fixation screws each. Subsequently, one implant was inserted in the position 35 through the corresponding template for guided implant placement. Optical scans of the study models together with the fixated block graft were performed prior to and after implant placement. The scans taken after block grafting were superimposed with the virtual block grafting plan through a best‐fit algorithm, and the linear deviation between the planned and the achieved block positions was calculated. The precision of the block fixation was obtained by superimposing the 20 scans taken after grafting and calculating the deviation between the corresponding resin blocks. The superimposition between the scans taken after and prior to implant placement was performed to measure a possible displacement in the block position induced by guided implant placement. The (98–2%)/2 percentile value was determined as a parameter for surface deviation.

Results

The mean deviation in the position of the block graft compared to the virtual plan amounted to 0.79 ± 0.13 mm. The mean deviation between the positions of the 20 block grafts measured 0.47 ± 0.2 mm, indicating a clinically acceptable precision. Guided implant placement induced a mean shift of 0.16 ± 0.06 mm in the position of the block graft.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this in vitro study, it can be concluded that customised block grafts fabricated through CBCT, computer‐assisted design and 3D printing allow alveolar ridge augmentation with clinically acceptable predictability and reproducibility. Computer‐assisted implant planning and placement can be performed simultaneously with computer‐assisted block grafting leading to clinically non‐relevant dislocation of block grafts.
Motivations for participation in weight loss clinical trials
Authors: Susanto Alyssa , Fuller Nicholas R. , Hocking Samantha , Markovic Tania , Gill Tim
Published: May 2023

Males are under‐represented in weight loss clinical trials, usually comprising fewer than one‐quarter of participants. Our study aimed to investigate people's motivations for participating in weight loss trials and determine any relationship with gender. Eighty individuals from an existing registry for weight loss trials were contacted, of whom 24 (9 males, 15 females) agreed to participate in a 20‐min semi‐structured interview around their expectations and motivations for volunteering. Interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed in Zoom. A transcript of each interview was uploaded into NVivo for preliminary thematic analysis. Improved health was a common motivation for pursuing weight loss in all subjects regardless of gender. Male recruitment to weight loss trials was often influenced by advice from a healthcare professional to lose weight for the prevention of obesity‐related comorbidities, whereas family and aesthetic expectations (e.g., clothes and fashion) were key elements of female participation. Identification of gender differences in motivations for volunteering in weight loss trials will help improve tailoring of recruitment strategies and interventions to enhance male participation in the future.
miR‐126‐5p expression in the plasma of patients with sepsis‐induced acute lung injury and its correlation with inflammation and immune function
Authors: Mao Xiaoyong , Wu Yiping , Xu Weifeng
Published: May 2023

Objective

This work was implemented to elucidate the miR‐126‐5p expression in the plasma of patients with sepsis‐induced acute lung injury (ALI) and its correlation with inflammation and immune function.

Methods

The peripheral blood of patients with sepsis‐induced ALI was obtained, and the levels of inflammatory factors (interleukin‐6 [IL‐6], C‐reactive protein [CRP], and procalcitonin [PCT]) were determined. Meanwhile, T lymphocyte subsets (CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+), and immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, and IgG) were tested. miR‐126‐5p and TRAF6 mRNA expression in plasma was assessed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of miR‐126‐5p in sepsis without ALI and sepsis with ALI. Correlation between miR‐126‐5p expression and clinical indicators was analyzed. The targets of miR‐126‐5p were predicted using the bioinformatics method, and the direct targets were verified through investigations.

Results

miR‐126‐5p expression in plasma of patients with sepsis‐induced ALI was reduced than that of patients with sepsis without ALI. miR‐126‐5p expression was negatively correlated with IL‐6, CRP, and PCT but positively correlated with IgA, IgM, and IgG as well as CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ in patients with sepsis‐induced ALI. ROC curve suggested that miR‐126‐5p (AUC: 0.777; 95%CI: 0.689–0.866) could distinguish patients with sepsis with ALI from patients with sepsis without ALI. TRAF6 expression in patients with sepsis‐induced ALI was higher than that in patients with sepsis without ALI. TRAF6 was a target gene of miR‐126‐5p,

Conclusion

This research highlights that miR‐126‐5p is reduced in the plasma of patients with sepsis‐induced ALI, and miR‐126‐5p relates to systemic inflammation and immune function indicators.
Retrospective comparative study of new slim‐delivery and conventional large‐cell stents for stent‐in‐stent methods for hilar malignant biliary obstruction
Authors: Ishigaki Kazunaga , Fukuda Rintaro , Nakai Yousuke , Endo Go , Kurihara Kohei , Ishida Kota , Tange Shuichi , Takaoka Shinya , Tokito Yurie , Suzuki Yukari , Oyama Hiroki , Kanai Sachiko , Suzuki Tatsunori , Ito Yukiko , Sato Tatsuya , Hakuta Ryunosuke , Saito Kei , Saito Tomotaka , Hamada Tsuyoshi , Takahara Naminatsu , Mizuno Suguru , Kogure Hirofumi , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Endoscopic management of unresectable hilar malignant biliary obstruction (HMBO) is technically challenging, and effectiveness of stent‐in‐stent using large‐cell, metal stents was reported. A new, large‐cell stent with a 6F tapered delivery system was recently developed. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of slim‐delivery and conventional large‐cell stents.

Methods

This was a multicenter retrospective comparative study of stent‐in‐stent methods using slim‐delivery stents (Niti‐S Large Cell SR Slim Delivery [LC slim‐delivery]) and conventional stents (Niti‐S large‐cell D‐type; LCD) for unresectable HMBO.

Results

Eighty‐three patients with HMBO were included; 31 LC slim‐delivery and 52 LCD. Overall technical and clinical success rates were 100% and 90% in LC slim‐delivery group and 98% and 88% in LCD group. Use of the LC slim‐delivery was associated with shorter stent placement time in the multiple regression analysis, with a stent placement time of 18 and 23 min in LC slim‐delivery and LCD groups, respectively. The early adverse event (AE) rate of LC slim‐delivery was 10%, with no cholangitis or cholecystitis as compared to 23% in the LCD group. Recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) rates and time to RBO were comparable between the two groups: 35% and 44%, and 8.5 and 8.0 months in LC slim‐delivery and LCD groups, respectively. The major cause of RBO was tumor ingrowth (82%) in the LC slim‐delivery group and sludge (43%) and ingrowth (48%) in LCD group.

Conclusion

Stent‐in‐stent methods using LC slim‐delivery shortened stent placement time with low early AE rates and comparable time to RBO in patients with HMBO.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage as a first approach for jaundice palliation in unresectable malignant distal biliary obstruction: Prospective study
Authors: Mangiavillano Benedetto , Moon Jong Ho , Facciorusso Antonio , Vargas‐Madrigal Jorge , Di Matteo Francesco , Rizzatti Gianenrico , De Luca Luca , Forti Edoardo , Mutignani Massimiliano , Al‐Lehibi Abed , Paduano Danilo , Bulajic Milutin , Decembrino Francesco , Auriemma Francesco , Franchellucci Gianluca , De Marco Alessandro , Gentile Carmine , Shin Il Sang , Rea Roberta , Massidda Marco , Calabrese Federica , Mirante Vincenzo Giorgio , Ofosu Andrew , Crinò Stefano Francesco , Hassan Cesare , Repici Alessandro , Larghi Alberto
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) represents the gold standard for jaundice palliation in patients with distal malignant biliary obstruction (DMBO). Biliary drainage using electrocautery lumen apposing metal stent (EC‐LAMS) is currently a well‐established procedure when ERCP fails. In a palliative setting the endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage (EUS‐GBD) could represent an easy and valid option. We performed a prospective study with a new EC‐LAMS with the primary aim to assess the clinical success rate of EUS‐GBD as a first‐line approach to the palliation of DMBO.

Methods

In all, 37 consecutive patients undergoing EUS‐GBD with a new EC‐LAMS were prospectively enrolled. Clinical success was defined as bilirubin level decrease >15% within 24 h and >50% within 14 days after EC‐LAMS placement.

Results

The mean age was 73.5 ± 10.8 years; there were 17 male patients (45.9%). EC‐LAMS placement was technically feasible in all patients (100%) and the clinical success rate was 100%. Four patients (10.8%) experienced adverse events, one bleeding, one food impaction, and two cystic duct obstructions because of disease progression. No stent‐related deaths were observed. The mean hospitalization was 7.7 ± 3.4 days. Median overall survival was 4 months (95% confidence interval 1–8).

Conclusion

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided gallbladder drainage with the new EC‐LAMS is a valid option in palliative endoscopic biliary drainage as a first‐step approach in low survival patients with malignant jaundice unfit for surgery. A smaller diameter EC‐LAMS should be preferred, particularly if the drainage is performed through the stomach, to avoid potential food impaction, which could result in stent dysfunction.
Effects of DPP‐4 inhibitors, GLP‐1 receptor agonists, SGLT‐2 inhibitors and sulphonylureas on mortality, cardiovascular and renal outcomes in type 2 diabetes: A network meta‐analyses‐driven approach
Authors: Brønden Andreas , Christensen Mikkel Bring , Glintborg Dorte , Snorgaard Ole , Kofoed‐Enevoldsen Allan , Madsen Gitte Krogh , Toft Katja , Kristensen Jette Kolding , Højlund Kurt , Hansen Troels Krarup , Søndergaard Esben , Hansen Katrine Bagge
Published: May 2023

Aims

The aim of our meta‐analyses was to compare the effects of glucose‐lowering drugs on mortality, cardiovascular and renal endpoints for a range of type 2 diabetes (T2D) subgroups defined by their specific cardiovascular risk profile.

Methods

Meta‐analyses comparing drugs within the classes of GLP‐1RAs and SGLT‐2 inhibitors were performed and compared to sulphonylureas and DPP‐4 inhibitors with available cardiovascular outcome trials. The comparison between the different classes of glucose‐lowering drugs included analyses of T2D populations with low risk and high risk for cardiovascular disease including populations with established cardiovascular disease and/or kidney disease. Outcomes included mortality, major cardiovascular adverse events (MACE), hospitalisation for heart failure (HHF) and a composite renal endpoint as applied in the underlying clinical trials.

Results

SGLT‐2 inhibitors and GLP‐1RAs showed beneficial effects on mortality and MACE compared to the classes of DPP‐4 inhibitors and sulphonylureas. SGLT‐2 inhibitors were shown to be the most effective treatment in terms of HHF and kidney disease. Metformin was used as background therapy for the vast majority of participants in all included studies. Overall, the absolute effects of SGLT‐2 inhibitors and GLP‐1RAs on these important outcomes were evident for patients with established or at high risk for cardiovascular disease but limited for the low‐risk subgroup.

Conclusions

The findings from our analyses substantiate the relevance of treatment with SGLT‐2 inhibitors or GLP‐1RAs as an add‐on to metformin in patients with T2D and a high risk for cardiovascular disease, and furthermore, support the recommendation for SGLT‐2 inhibitor treatment in patients with T2D and heart failure or established kidney disease.
Associations of diabetes, prediabetes and diabetes duration with the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A prospective UK Biobank study
Authors: Su Jian , Li Mengyao , Wan Xinglin , Yu Hao , Wan Yanan , Hang Dong , Lu Yan , Tao Ran , Wu Ming , Zhou Jinyi , Fan Xikang
Published: May 2023

Aim

To investigate the associations of diabetes, prediabetes and diabetes duration with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk and survival in the UK Biobank.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a prospective analysis among 452 680 participants without COPD at baseline using UK Biobank data. Multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated from Cox regression models. The dose–response relationship was explored using restricted cubic splines. A separate survival analysis was conducted for 12 595 patients with incident COPD.

Results

Over a median follow‐up of 12.3 years, 12 595 cases of COPD were documented. Compared with the reference group, those with prediabetes and diabetes were associated with an 18% (HR 1.18 [95% CI: 1.13‐1.24]) and 35% (HR 1.35 [95% CI: 1.24‐1.47]) higher risk of COPD, respectively. Diabetes duration was associated with COPD risk, with multivariable HRs (95% CIs) of 1.23 (1.05‐1.44), 1.20 (1.04‐1.39) and 1.18 (1.01‐1.37) for diabetes duration of 7 years or longer, 3 to less than 7 years, and 1 to less than 3 years versus less than 1 year, respectively. Dose–response analysis revealed a non‐linear relationship between diabetes duration and COPD risk. Regarding COPD survival, COPD patients with prediabetes and diabetes had a 9% (HR 1.09 [95% CI: 1.00‐1.19]) and 21% (HR 1.21 [95% CI: 1.05‐1.41]) higher risk of overall death, respectively. Compared with the cases with a diabetes duration of less than 1 year, those with a diabetes duration of 7 years or longer were associated with a 46% higher risk of overall death (HR 1.46 [95% CI: 1.11‐1.92]).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that diabetes, prediabetes and a longer diabetes duration are associated with a higher risk of and worse survival for COPD. Future studies are warranted to determine the optimal way of diabetes control that might reduce COPD risk.
Transesophageal echocardiography‐guided versus fluoroscopy‐guided patent foramen ovale closure: A single center registry
Authors: Achim Alexandru , Hochegger Paul , Kanoun Schnur Sadeek S. , Moser Lisa , Stark Cosima , Pranevičius Robertas , Prunea Dan , Schmidt Albrecht , Ablasser Klemens , Verheyen Nicolas , Kolesnik Ewald , Maier Robert , Luha Olev , Ruzsa Zoltan , Zirlik Andreas , Toth Gabor G.
Published: May 2023

Background

Percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) is conventionally performed under continuous transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE) guidance. We aimed to evaluate whether a simplified procedural approach, including pure fluoroscopy‐guidance and final TEE control, as well as an aimed ‘next‐day‐discharge’ is comparable with the conventional TEE‐guided procedure in terms of periprocedural and intermediate‐term outcomes.

Methods

All patients who underwent a PFO closure at our center between 2010 and 2022 were retrospectively included. Prior to June 2019 cases were performed with continuous TEE guidance (TEE‐guided group). Since June 2019, only pure fluoroscopy‐guided PFO closures have been performed with TEE insertion and control just prior to device release (fluoroscopy‐guided group). We analyzed procedural aspects, as well as long term clinical and echocardiographic outcomes.

Results

In total 291 patients were included in the analysis: 197 in the TEE‐guided group and 94 in the fluoroscopy‐guided group. Fluoroscopy‐guided procedures were markedly shorter (48 ± 20 min vs. 25 ± 9 min; p < .01). There was no difference in procedural complications, including death, major bleeding, device dislodgement, stroke or clinically relevant peripheral embolization between the two groups (.5% vs. 0%; p = .99). Hospital stay was also shorter with the simplified approach (2.5 ± 1.6 vs. 3.5 ± 1.2 days; p < .01), allowing 85% same‐day discharges during the last 12 months of observation period.

At 6 ± 3 months echocardiographic follow‐up a residual leakage was described in 8% of the TEE‐guided cases and 2% of the fluoroscopy‐guided cases (p = .08).

Conclusion

While a complete TEE‐free PFO closure might have potential procedural risks, our approach of pure fluoroscopy‐guided with a brisk final TEE check seems to be advantageous in terms of procedural aspects with no sign of any acute or intermediate‐term hazard and it could offer an equitable compromise between the two worlds: a complete TEE procedure and a procedure without any TEE.
Invasion‐mediated mutualism disruption is evident across heterogeneous environmental conditions and varying invasion intensities
Authors: Roche Morgan D. , Pearse Ian S. , Sofaer Helen R. , Kivlin Stephanie N. , Spyreas Greg , Zaya David N. , Kalisz Susan
Published: May 2023

The impact of a biological invasion on native communities is expected to be uneven across invaded landscapes due to differences in local abiotic conditions, invader abundance, and traits and composition of the native community. One way to improve predictive ability about the impact of an invasive species given variable conditions is to exploit known mechanisms driving invasive species' success. Invasive plants frequently exhibit allelopathic traits, which can be directly toxic to plants or indirectly impact them via disruption of root symbionts, including mycorrhizal fungi. The indirect mechanism – mutualism disruption – is predicted to impact plants that rely on mycorrhizas but not affect non‐mycorrhizal plant species. To assess whether invader‐driven mutualism disruption explains observed changes in native plant communities, we analyzed long‐term (1998–2018) plant cover data from forest plots across the state of Illinois. We evaluated native plant communities experiencing a range of abundance of invasive allelopathic garlic mustard Alliaria petiolata and varying environmental conditions. Consistent with the mutualism disruption hypothesis, we showed that as garlic mustard abundance increased over time in 0.25 m2 sampling quadrats, the abundance of mycorrhizal plant species decreased, but non‐mycorrhizal plant species did not. Over space and time, garlic mustard abundance predicted plant abundances and diversity at the quadrat level, but this relationship was not present at a larger scale when quadrats were aggregated within sites. Garlic mustard's impact on the plant community was highly localized, yet it was as important as abiotic variables for predicting local plant diversity. We showed that garlic mustard abundance was a key predictor of patterns of plant diversity across invasion intensity and environmental heterogeneity in a way that is consistent with mutualism disruption. Our work indicates that the mutualism disruption hypothesis can provide generalizable predictions of the impacts of allelopathic invasive plants that are evident at a broad spatial scale.
Inbound arrivals: using weather surveillance radar to quantify the diurnal timing of spring trans‐Gulf bird migration
Authors: Abbott Annika L. , Deng Yuting , Badwey Katie , Farnsworth Andrew , Horton Kyle G.
Published: May 2023

More than two billion birds migrate through the Gulf of Mexico each spring en route to breeding grounds in the USA and Canada. This region has a long history of complex natural and anthropogenic environments as the northern Gulf coast provides the first possible stopover habitats for migrants making nonstop trans‐Gulf crossings during spring migration. However, intense anthropogenic activity in the region, which is expanding rapidly at present, makes migrants vulnerable to a multitude of obstacles and increasingly fragments and alters these habitats. Understanding the timing of migrants' overwater arrivals has biological value for expanding our understanding of migration ecology relative to decision‐making for nonstop flights, and is imperative for advancing conservation of this critical region through the identification of key times in which to direct conservation actions (e.g. temporary halting of wind turbines, reduction of light pollution). We explored 10 years of weather surveillance radar data from five sites along the northern Gulf of Mexico coast to quantify the daily timing and intensity of arriving trans‐Gulf migrants. On a daily scale, we found that migrant intensity peaked an average of nine hours after local sunrise, occurring earliest at easternmost sites. On a seasonal level, the greatest number of arrivals occurred between late April and early May, with peak intensity occurring latest at westernmost sites. Overall intensity of migration across all 10 years of data was greatest at the westernmost sites and decreased moving farther to the east. These findings emphasize the differential spatial and temporal patterns of use of the Gulf of Mexico region by migrating birds, information that is essential for improving our understanding of the ecology of trans‐Gulf migration and for supporting data‐driven approaches to conservation actions for the migratory birds passing through this critical region.
Land use differentially alters microbial interactions and detritivore feeding during leaf decomposition in headwater streams
Authors: Hebert Tori A. , Kuehn Kevin A. , Halvorson Halvor M.
Published: May 2023

Human‐driven land conversion from forest to agriculture introduces nutrients, like nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), which upon entering nearby streams can stimulate growth and metabolism of microbial autotrophs (algae) and heterotrophs (fungi and bacteria). Recent evidence indicates that algae also can stimulate microbial heterotrophs associated with decaying plant litter by exuding labile carbon (C), defined as the priming effect on decomposition. These autotroph–heterotroph interactions may further alter detritivore feeding ecology, suggesting many complex mechanisms of land‐use change on stream ecosystem functions.

In order to investigate the effects of land use on autotroph–heterotroph interactions, we used a full‐factorial design manipulating labile C (glucose and acetate) and nutrients (N and P) to test their effects during red maple litter decomposition within four forested and four pasture agriculture streams in the Point Remove catchment, Arkansas. We deployed nutrient‐diffusing substrates (NDS) containing litter and either agar, agar + labile C, agar + NP, or agar + CNP for 20 days and measured microbial biomass and metabolism, and detrital mass loss. Additionally, we fed litter to Tipula sp. to assess shifts in consumption and egestion rates.

Both microbial heterotrophs and autotrophs responded to NDS manipulations, but not land use. Heterotrophic microbes showed evidence of nutrient limitation and negative priming, while algal biomass was negatively associated with heterotrophs. Tipula consumption and egestion rates were both elevated when feeding on litter incubated in agriculture streams, but only egestion responded to NDS manipulations, suggesting a change in assimilation efficiencies.

Cumulatively, we suggest that altered stream conditions, such as those resulting from land‐use change, can alter food webs and detritivore feeding more heavily than microbial interactions during litter decomposition in stream ecosystems. These results add to the literature demonstrating shifts in autotroph–heterotroph interactions with anthropogenic nutrient pollution, and the implications for detritivore feeding and overall C cycling in streams.
Understanding the performance of universities to promote technological innovation and transformation: An application to China based on a new network data envelopment analysis cross‐efficiency model
Authors: Sun Yaotian , Zhang Ruchuan , Hu Liqi , Li Aijun
Published: May 2023

When evaluating the performance of Research and Development (R&D) and Scientific and Technological (S&T) transformation activities in universities, the existing studies do not contain prior strategy analysis and inequality analysis. In this regard, prior strategy reflects the relative attention paid by universities to R&D and S&T transformation activities, while inequality analysis assists us in better understanding technological inequality in efficiency across universities. Additionally, this study contributes to the existing literatures by proposing new concepts of window‐based cross‐efficiency, window‐based relative weights and a network Data Envelopment Analysis model. Our framework is able to evaluate the efficiency, perform priority analysis and identify the sources of technological inequality. Empirically, this study focuses on universities in Chinese provinces from 2007 to 2019. This study is of high policy practice, since it provides policy makers with how each university has performed during the examined period and what are the underling factors driving efficiency changes.
A (Cross‐Count) Compositional Christology
Authors: Sijuwade Joshua R.
Published: May 2023

This article aims to provide a new philosophical explication of the doctrine of the Incarnation. A compositional model of the doctrine is formulated within the Dispositional Personhood account of Lynne Rudder Baker and the Composition as Identity framework of Donald L.M. Baxter. Formulating the doctrine of the Incarnation within this account and framework will enable it to be explicated in a clear and consistent manner, and the oft‐raised objections against this type of model can be answered.
Nursing students' perceived stress, social support, self‐efficacy, resilience, mindfulness and psychological well‐being: A structural equation model
Authors: Berdida Daniel Joseph E. , Lopez Violeta , Grande Rizal Angelo N.
Published: May 2023

Nursing students' stress, protective factors (e.g. resilience, social support, mindfulness and self‐efficacy) and psychological well‐being (PWB) have been well reported in the literature. However, the interactions of these variables were scarcely examined in the latter part of the COVID‐19 pandemic and in the context of a developing country. This cross‐sectional correlational study complying with STROBE guidelines tested a hypothetical model of the interrelationships of nursing students' stress, protective factors and PWB using structural equation modelling (SEM). Nursing students (n = 776) from five nursing schools in the Philippines were conveniently recruited from September 2022 to January 2023. Six validated self‐report scales (Perceived Stress Scale, Multi‐dimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Generalized Self‐Efficacy Scale, Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and Psychological Wellbeing Scale) were used to collect data. SEM, mediation analyses and path analyses were used for data analysis. The emerging model demonstrated acceptable model fit parameters. Stress negatively impacted protective factors, while all the protective factors positively influenced PWB. Social support mediated the influence of stress on resilience, mindfulness and PWB. Resilience is a significant mediator of stress, self‐efficacy, social support and PWB. Mindfulness mediated the influence of stress, social support and self‐efficacy on PWB. Finally, self‐efficacy had a mediating role between resilience and mindfulness. Nursing institutions and nurse educators can use the proposed model as their basis for empirical and theoretical evidence in creating programmes that will strengthen nursing students' protective factors, thus reducing stress while improving PWB and learning outcomes.
Assessment for Learning of Design Teamwork Skills
Authors: Tessier Virginie , Carbonneau‐Loiselle Mathilde
Published: May 2023

This article seeks to contribute to the reflection around the training of future designers regarding teamwork. Collaboration, teamwork and negotiations are common everyday interactions that are now known to contribute positively to the design process. This article builds on a theoretical model that was initially proposed as a Ph.D. thesis contribution: the zone of proximal development for learning teamwork skills. The objective of this article is to share the first implementation of the model in a real educational situation and seize this opportunity to develop it further. The framework of assessment for learning and the concept of the zone of proximal development guide this research. The data collection is based on the observations of teamwork during a design seminar. The analysis is structured around the theoretical definitions of the model's components and in situ observations of the participants. This process guides us to share indicators allowing to confirm if a level or set of skills are achieved by a student. Plus, we propose a set of related teaching guidance to use when skills are identified as underdeveloped or to develop. Through this work, we wish to discuss how design students can be better equipped to enter the profession and play a significant role as team players.
Modularization of the front‐end logistics services in e‐fulfillment
Authors: Yurt Oznur , Sorkun Metehan Feridun , Hsuan Juliana
Published: May 2023

This study exploits service modularity in front‐end logistics services in e‐fulfillment, from a customer‐centric approach, particularly in order management, delivery, and return. Through an online survey of UK customers, the service priorities of 494 respondents via AHP (Analytic Hierarchical Process) were analyzed. Extracting customers' service priorities, ordering behavior, and demographic information as input data, the clustering algorithm KAMILA (KAy‐means for MIxed LArge data sets) was further applied. The three identified customer clusters (multichannel shoppers, infrequent shoppers, and online fans) provide preliminary evidence on how commonality and variability aspects of service modularity in front‐end logistics services can optimize the number of service options and their performance levels. Therefore, our study, building on value co‐creation and modularity, proposes a systematic way of exploiting service modularity for the customer segmentation process that addresses heterogeneous customer preferences cost‐efficiently and uncomplicatedly. Furthermore, we provide a framework for the governance of front‐end logistics services, guiding outsourcing decisions. Accordingly, it reveals the implications of customer priorities and service decomposition logic choices on value creation. Finally, the propositions formulated aim to develop theoretical foundations for explaining how the heterogeneity in customer priorities for logistics services can be managed with modularity, creating value both for customers and retailers.
Mass transfer and color change kinetics of infrared drying of rose petals and its impact on physico‐chemical properties
Authors: Aradwad Pramod , Yadav Rahul , Arun Kumar T. V. , Shabeer T. P. Ahammed , Raju D. V. S. , Kumar P. Naveen , Sahoo Monalisa
Published: May 2023

The present study investigated the effects of infrared and forced convective air at different infrared power levels (300, 400, and 500 W) and hot air temperatures (50, 57, and 65°C) on thin layer drying of rose petals. Infrared drying requires 50%–52% less time as compared with forced convective drying. The initial and final moisture content of rose petals were 84% (w.b.) and 4.5% (w.b.) respectively. The Midilli–Kucuk model gives a superior fit for both the drying methods followed by Avhad and Marchetti, and the Page model. The zero‐order, followed by the first‐order color kinetics model gives the best fitting for L*, a*, and b* values. Moisture diffusivity was increased by infrared power (1.7308 × 10−8 to 4.1495 × 10−8 m2/s) and hot air temperature (9.3715 × 10−9 to 1.1709 × 10−8 m2/s). The activation energy obtained for rose petals in hot air dryers and infrared dryers was 51.09 kJ/mol and 6.50 kW/kg, respectively. Samples dried at 500 W infrared drying for 18 min demonstrated higher retention of color, ascorbic acid (61.03 ± 2.6 mg/100 g), and anthocyanin content (295.75 ± 65.70 mg/100 g) in the rose petals.

Practical Applications

Several drying techniques are available, though continuous efforts have been made to improve drying methods in terms of energy efficiency and product quality attributes. The present work has been carried out considering the dearth of information on the influence of infrared power/intensity on drying behavior and product quality of rose petals. Mass and color kinetics has been studied for a better understanding of the process along with rehydration, ascorbic acid and anthocyanin content. Our results showed that the infrared drying has significant industrial importance as it provides an efficient way to dry flowers, preserving their quality and extending their shelf life.
Sex and single women in midlife: Theoretical perspectives, recent findings, and future directions
Authors: Luke Nancy , Poulin Michelle
Published: May 2023

Demographic trends, such as the graying of divorce, have led to increasing numbers of unmarried women in midlife, yet little is known about the meaning of sex and intimacy among this population. This article reviews the nascent literature on single women's sexual experiences at midlife, theoretical frameworks that have been employed, and key findings. Challenging the stereotype that single women in midlife are in sexual decline, research shows that many women embrace their newfound freedom, have increased agency in midlife, and have positive sexual experiences. Others face impediments to finding new partners and engaging in sexual activity, including the lasting effects of abuse from previous relationships and restrictive social norms. For some, sex becomes less important in midlife, often replaced by close relationships with family and friends. Research largely focuses on White, heterosexual women; research on the experiences of racial and sexual minorities and midlife women in the Global South is needed.
Plastid KEA‐type cation/H+ antiporters are required for vacuolar protein trafficking in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Wang Lu , Pan Ting , Wu Xuexia , Shen Jinbo , Jiang Liwen , Tajima Hiromi , Blumwald Eduardo , Qiu Quan‐Sheng
Published: May 2023

Arabidopsis plastid antiporters KEA1 and KEA2 are critical for plastid development, photosynthetic efficiency, and plant development. Here, we show that KEA1 and KEA2 are involved in vacuolar protein trafficking. Genetic analyses found that the kea1 kea2 mutants had short siliques, small seeds, and short seedlings. Molecular and biochemical assays showed that seed storage proteins were missorted out of the cell and the precursor proteins were accumulated in kea1 kea2. Protein storage vacuoles (PSVs) were smaller in kea1 kea2. Further analyses showed that endosomal trafficking in kea1 kea2 was compromised. Vacuolar sorting receptor 1 (VSR1) subcellular localizations, VSR–cargo interactions, and p24 distribution on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus were affected in kea1 kea2. Moreover, plastid stromule growth was reduced and plastid association with the endomembrane compartments was disrupted in kea1 kea2. Stromule growth was regulated by the cellular pH and K+ homeostasis maintained by KEA1 and KEA2. The organellar pH along the trafficking pathway was altered in kea1 kea2. Overall, KEA1 and KEA2 regulate vacuolar trafficking by controlling the function of plastid stromules via adjusting pH and K+ homeostasis.