bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boron foliar supplementation as a strategy to attenuate drought stress in soybean
Authors: Souza Júnior Paulo César , Marchiori Paulo Eduardo Ribeiro , Hippler Franz Walter Rieger , Bastos Ludmila da Silva , Linhares Paulo Cassio Alves , Peralta Sanchez Marlon Alexander
Published: June 2023

Drought is the major abiotic stress that limits growth, development and yield of crops worldwide. In this scenario, mineral nutrients, such as boron (B), have been promising for increasing the tolerance of plants to abiotic stresses because of their physiological roles in plants. We aimed to evaluate the benefits of foliar supplementation of B in either relieving or reducing the physiological damages caused by water stress in soybean (Glycine max L.). A greenhouse trial was carried out in a 2 × 3 factorial scheme, with two water conditions (well‐watered and drought stress) and three doses of B (0, 150 and 300 mg B L−1). Foliar application of B was before inducing the water stress, which remained for 20 days during vegetative stage. Plants were evaluated at three moments, according to the water conditions: maximum stress, rehydration and just before harvesting. The levels of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation increased in soybean leaves and roots under water stress, resulting in impaired plant growth. However, the foliar supplementation with B before the stress increased activities of the antioxidant enzymes and reduced the levels of stress markers. Furthermore, B applied foliar increased the nutrient concentration in the leaves of plants and stimulated root growth, which resulted in higher harvest index related to yield. The foliar application of B has shown as an alternative management to mitigate the damages caused by drought stress in soybean.
Contact chemoreceptive mate recognition in Cerambyx welensii Küster (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
Authors: Sánchez‐Osorio Israel , López‐Pantoja Gloria , Domínguez Luis , López‐Manzano María R. , Rosell Gloria , Guerrero Ángel
Published: June 2023

Cerambyx welensii Küster (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is a wood‐borer responsible for the decline of Mediterranean oaks in open woodlands.

To establish that contact pheromones are involved in mate recognition of C. welensii, we extracted the cuticular hydrocarbons by solid phase microextraction at pre‐reproductive, beginning and ending of the reproductive period, and by solvent extraction of prothorax and elytra. The extracts were analysed by GC–MS under electron impact and chemical ionization conditions. Cuticular hydrocarbon profiles varied according to the reproductive period, although differences between sexes were not significant. Two compounds, 11/13‐methylheptacosane and 11‐methylnonacosane were more abundant in females at the beginning and ending of the reproductive periods. Compound 11/13‐methylheptacosane was also more representative in female prothorax than in males, and 2‐methyloctacosane was richer in male elytra than in females.

We also studied the role of cuticular hydrocarbons in mate recognition in arena bioassays. Treatment of solvent‐washed dead females and glass dummies with one female equivalent (FE) of cuticular extract elicited mating responses in males, especially at the beginning of the reproductive period, with copulation attempts reaching 61.9% on solvent‐washed dead females and 23.8% on dummies. The successive treatment with synthetic compounds approaching a male cuticular profile inhibited male response.

Our results confirm that contact pheromones mediate mate recognition in C. welensii. Knowledge of the precise role played by the major compounds 11/13‐methylheptacosane and 11‐methylnonacosane and other minor compounds representative in female prothorax may contribute to the development of novel management strategies against C. welensii.
Family Feud: Succession Tournaments and Risk‐Taking in Family Firms*
Authors: Lee Jongsub , Shin Hojong , Yun Hayong
Published: June 2023

We identify succession as a novel determinant of risk‐taking in family firms. We find significantly higher risk‐taking (mergers and acquisitions and cash flow volatility) and lower operating efficiency in firms controlled by families with multiple sons during the pre‐ rather than the postsuccession period compared to family firms with one or no sons. Presuccession risk‐taking by sons decreases the following inheritance law amendments that require sharing of wealth among heirs, bolstering the causal interpretation of our findings. An infusion of outside talent via daughters' marriages also alleviates the relative rank‐seeking behaviors of sons during succession tournaments.
The Indexification of Poverty: The Covert Politics of Small‐Area Indices
Authors: Kiely Ed , Strong Samuel
Published: June 2023

In recent decades statistical indices have become a dominant method for measuring many features of the social world. While the resulting enumerations are regularly cited by critical human geographers, the wider political stakes of indexing the world remain unaddressed. In this article, we theorise indexification as the process through which composite statistics transform theoretical constructs into epistemic objects, and then geographically bounded rankings. Rather than a neutral process, we argue that these epistemological manoeuvres can mask various forms of violence. Through a detailed analysis of the UK's Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), we highlight the clandestine politics of indexification and their tendency to conceal harms meted out by the state. Seeking a more critical reckoning with indices, we conclude by calling for and outlining a project of radical indexification—a participatory, democratic, and transparent endeavour that takes spatial justice as its organising principle.
Distinct role of CD8 cells and CD4 cells in antitumor immunity triggered by cell apoptosis using a Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase/ganciclovir system
Authors: Umegaki Sho , Shirota Hidekazu , Kasahara Yuki , Iwasaki Tomoyuki , Ishioka Chikashi
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Immune cells can recognize tumor‐associated antigens released from dead tumor cells, which elicit immune responses, potentially resulting in tumor regression. Tumor cell death induced by chemotherapy has also been reported to activate immunity. However, various studies have reported drug‐induced immunosuppression or suppression of inflammation by apoptotic cells. Thus, this study aimed to investigate whether apoptotic tumor cells trigger antitumor immunity independent of anticancer treatment. Local immune responses were evaluated after direct induction of tumor cell apoptosis using a Herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase/ganciclovir (HSV‐tk/GCV) system. The inflammatory response was significantly altered at the tumor site after apoptosis induction. The expression of cytokines and molecules that activate and suppress inflammation simultaneously increased. The HSV‐tk/GCV‐induced tumor cell apoptosis resulted in tumor growth suppression and promoted T lymphocyte infiltration into tumors. Therefore, the role of T cells after inducing tumor cell death was explored. CD8 T cell depletion abrogated the antitumor efficacy of apoptosis induction, indicating that tumor regression was mainly dependent on CD8 T cells. Furthermore, CD4 T cell depletion inhibited tumor growth, suggesting the potential role of CD4 T cells in suppressive tumor immunity. Tumor tissues were evaluated after tumor cell apoptosis and CD4 T cell depletion to elucidate this immunological mechanism. Foxp3 and CTLA4, regulatory T‐cell markers, decreased. Furthermore, arginase 1, an immune‐suppressive mediator induced by myeloid cells, was significantly downregulated. These findings indicate that tumors accelerate CD8 T cell‐dependent antitumor immunity and CD4 T cell‐mediated suppressive immunity. These findings could be a therapeutic target for immunotherapy in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Development of teaching in ni‐Vanuatu children
Authors: Brandl Eva , Emmott Emily H. , Mace Ruth
Published: June 2023

Teaching is an important mechanism of social learning. In industrialized societies, 3‐year‐olds tend to teach through demonstrations and short commands, while 5‐year‐olds use more verbal communication and abstract explanations. However, it remains unclear whether this generalizes to other cultures. This study presents results from a peer teaching game with 55 Melanesian children (4.7–11.4 years, 24 female) conducted in Vanuatu in 2019. Up to age 8, most participants taught through a participatory approach, emphasizing learning‐by‐doing, demonstrations, and short commands (57.1% of children aged 4–6 and 57.9% of children aged 7–8). Contrary to Western findings, abstract verbal communication only became common in children aged 9–11 (63.6%), suggesting that the ontogeny of teaching is shaped by the socio‐cultural environment.
Contact allergy to ingredients of hair cosmetics in female hairdressers and female consumers—An update based on IVDK data 2013–2020
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Hallmann Sarah , Gefeller Olaf , Brans Richard , Symanzik Cara , Oppel Eva , Lang Claudia , Kränke Birger , Treudler Regina , Geier Johannes
Published: June 2023

Background

Hair cosmetic products contain several, partly potent contact allergens, including excipients like preservatives. Hand dermatitis in hairdressers is common, scalp and face dermatitis in clients or self‐users (summarised here as ‘consumers’) may be severe.

Objective

To compare frequencies of sensitization to hair cosmetic ingredients and other selected allergens between female patch tested patients working as hairdressers and consumers without professional background, respectively, who were tested for suspected allergic contact dermatitis to such products.

Methods

Patch test and clinical data collected by the IVDK (https://www.ivdk.org) between 01/2013 and 12/2020 were descriptively analysed, focusing on age‐adjusted sensitization prevalences in the two subgroups.

Results

Amongst the 920 hairdressers (median age: 28 years, 84% hand dermatitis) and 2321 consumers (median age: 49 years, 71.8% head/face dermatitis), sensitization to p‐phenylenediamine (age‐standardised prevalence: 19.7% and 31.6%, respectively) and toluene‐2,5‐diamine (20 and 30.8%) were most common. Contact allergy to other oxidative hair dye ingredients was also more commonly diagnosed in consumers, whereas ammonium persulphate (14.4% vs. 2.3%) and glyceryl thioglycolate (3.9 vs. 1.2%) as well as most notably methylisothiazolinone (10.5% vs. 3.1%) were more frequent allergens in hairdressers.

Conclusions

Hair dyes were the most frequent sensitizers both in hairdressers and in consumers; however, as indication for patch testing may differ, prevalences cannot directly be compared. The importance of hair dye allergy is evident, often with marked coupled reactivity. Workplace and product safety need to be further improved.
Discrimination and dental students: What is the reality in Brazilian institutions?
Authors: Sartori Letícia Regina Morello , Henzel Larissa Tavares , Chisini Luiz Alexandre , de Oliveira Luísa Jardim Corrêa , Sabóia Vicente de Paulo Aragão , Correa Marcos Britto
Published: June 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate whether there is discrimination in the dental educational environment, assess the main reasons for the discriminatory events, and if there is an association between discriminatory episodes and sociodemographic characteristics of undergraduate dental students.

Materials and Methods

This observational cross‐sectional study was conducted with a self‐administered questionnaire to students enrolled in three Brazilian dental schools. Questions included sociodemographic characteristics and the occurrence of discriminatory episodes in the dental academic environment. Descriptive analysis was performed in RStudio 1.3 (R Core Team, RStudio, Inc., Boston, USA) software and the associations were tested using Pearson's chi‐square test, considering 95% confidence intervals.

Results

A total of 732 dental students were included, with a response rate of 70.2%. The vast majority of students were female (66.9%), with white/yellow skin colour (67.9%), and with a mean age of 22.6 (SD 4.1) years. Sixth‐eight percent of students reported having experienced some discrimination in the academic environment and most reported feeling uncomfortable with the episode. The main reasons to have been discriminated against raised by students were specific behaviour/habit, have specific moral, ethical, and aesthetic values, gender, and socioeconomic status or social class. The occurrence of discriminatory episodes was associated with female gender (p = .05), non‐heterosexual sexual orientation (p < .001), studying in public institutions (p < .001), receiving an institutional scholarship (p = .018), and being in the final undergraduate cycle (p < .001).

Conclusion

The occurrence of discriminatory episodes was common in Brazilian dental higher education. Discriminatory situations generate traumas and psychological marks, causing a loss of diversity within the academic environment that leads to loss of productivity, creativity, and innovation. Thus, strong institutional policies against discrimination are crucial to create a healthy dental academic environment.
The effect of medical grade honey on tensile strength, strain, and Young's modulus of synthetic absorbable suture material used in equine surgery
Authors: Madsen Kira , Martens Ann , Haspeslagh Maarten , Meulyzer Michael , Gustafsson Kajsa
Published: June 2023

Background

Medical grade honey (MGH) has been introduced as a protective measure against surgical site infections in equine surgery, but the effect on suture material has not been investigated.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of MGH on the tensile properties of three synthetic absorbable suture materials.

Study Design

In vitro experiments.

Methods

Ten strands of Polydioxanone USP 2 (PD2), Polyglactin 910 USP 2 (PG2) and Polyglecaprone USP 2‐0 (PC2‐0) were incubated 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days in MGH, phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS), equine plasma (EP) and MGH mixed with equine plasma (HP). Mechanical testing was performed recording maximum load at failure (N), strain at failure and Young's modulus (N/mm2). The results were reported from a Welch or regular ANOVA.

Results

PD2 in MGH had a significantly higher tensile strength compared to PD2 in EP (p < 0.05, mean difference (md) = 16.95 N, CI95% (9.19–24.70 N)) and PBS (p < 0.05, md = 14.48 N CI95% (6.73–22.23 N)) on day 7 and the remaining time points. PG2 incubated in MGH had a significantly higher tensile strength compared to EP (p < 0.05, md = 69.28 N CI95% (64.16–74.40 N)) and PBS (p < 0.05, md = 56.90 N CI95% (51.78–62.02 N)) until day 28. PC2‐0 incubated in MGH had a significantly higher tensile strength compared to EP (p < 0.05 md = 12.40 N CI95% (4.59 N–20.20 N)) and PBS (p < 0.05 md = 11.23 CI95% (3.42–19.03 N)) on day 7 and the remaining time points.

Main Limitations

The sutures were unloaded during incubation and a single cycle to failure test was only performed, which does not reflect the in vivo environment where shear forces are present.

Conclusions

MGH did not negatively affect the tensile strength of the suture material and can safely be applied in contact with suture materials commonly used in equine surgery.
Navigating adolescent depression and anxiety in the context of parenting plan evaluations
Authors: Ajoku Chioma
Published: June 2023

This article touches upon theories accounting for the rise in adolescent anxiety and depression and how the prevalence of adolescent anxiety and depression affects how we navigate parenting plan evaluations. This article also discusses the importance of screening youth for depressive and anxious symptoms and assessing family, parental, and youth risk and protective factors related to adolescent depression and anxiety. This article also highlights the importance of assessing for mediating factors that increase the risk of anxiety and depression in youth in the context of parental separation, such as interparental conflict, financial difficulties, and limited contact with one parent. This article also identifies various methods of assessing depression and anxiety, including the adolescent interview, observations during the interview, and self‐report measures. Additionally, this article discusses potential interventions that address mediators of the impact of divorce, such as parenting problems, family conflict, or the parent–child relationship.
Microstructure design strategies to mitigate hydrogen embrittlement in metallic materials
Authors: Sun Binhan , Dong Xizhen , Wen Jianfeng , Zhang Xian‐Cheng , Tu Shan‐Tung
Published: June 2023

Hydrogen embrittlement (HE) is characterized by the sudden loss of a material's mechanical property due to the premature failure induced by the ingress of H atoms and various H‐materials interactions. This phenomenon threatens almost all the metallic materials that brings an abrupt halt to some of the pending infrastructures needed for a H economy. The development of microstructure design strategies to mitigate HE is challenging, as the fundamental mechanisms for HE process are still not well understood. Nevertheless, some progresses in this field have been made in recent years. Here, we provide an overview on established microstructural approaches to mitigate HE in metallic materials. These methods include second‐phase trapping, grain refinement, grain boundary engineering, solute segregation and heterogeneity, and surface treatment. Their effectiveness and materials applicability are compared. The operating mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of these approaches are also discussed to guide their future development and successful industrial application.
Development of a pharmacological evidence‐based anticholinergic burden scale for medications commonly used in older adults
Authors: Yamada Shizuo , Mochizuki Masae , Chimoto Junko , Futokoro Risa , Kagota Satomi , Shinozuka Kazumasa
Published: June 2023

Aim

The present study aimed to develop a pharmacological evidence‐based anticholinergic burden scale (ABS) through a direct assessment of muscarinic receptor‐binding activities of 260 medications commonly used in older adults.

Methods

The muscarinic receptor‐binding activities of 260 drugs were assessed by the displacement of specific [N‐methyl‐3H]scopolamine methyl chloride binding in the rat brain. The maximum blood concentrations (Cmax) of drugs after their administration to subjects were cited from their interview forms.

Results

In total, 96 of 260 drugs displayed concentration‐dependent muscarinic receptor binding in rat brain. Based on muscarinic receptor‐binding activity (IC50) and Cmax after the administration at clinical doses in humans, we rated ABS 3 (strong) for 33 drugs and ABS 2 (moderate) for 37 drugs. There was an approximate similarity between muscarinic receptor‐binding activities (IC50) and Cmax of 33 drugs (ABS 3) after their administration at clinical doses in humans. Furthermore, 26 drugs were defined as ABS 1 (weak) by muscarinic receptor‐binding activity. The remaining 164 drugs exhibited slight or no significant muscarinic receptor‐binding activities at high concentration of 100 μM, and they were defined as ABS 0. There was a marked similarity for 28 drugs (ABS 3) between the present ABS data and their previous scoring data in the literature.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, the present study developed the first comprehensive pharmacological evidence‐based ABS of drugs based on muscarinic receptor‐binding activity, which provides guidance as to which drugs may be discontinued to reduce anticholinergic burden. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 558–564.
Headache clinicians’ perspectives on the remote monitoring of patients’ electronic diary data: A qualitative study
Authors: Minen Mia T. , George Alexis , Katara Aarti , Lebowitz Naomi , Snyder Ivy Charlotte , Busis Neil A. , Lipchitz Jessica M.
Published: June 2023

Objective

We assessed headache clinicians’ viewpoints on potential remote access to patients’ digital headache diary data and the practicalities of data utilization.

Background

With the ubiquitous nature of electronic medical records and the existence of remote monitoring (RM) for many medical conditions, there is now the potential for remote symptom monitoring for patients with headache disorders. While patients are asked to utilize headache diaries, clinicians may or may not have access to the data before patient visits, and their perspectives regarding this emerging technology are currently unknown.

Methods

After recruiting participants from the National Institutes of Health Pain Consortium Network, the American Headache Society Special Interest Section listservs, and Twitter and Facebook social media platforms, we conducted 20 semi‐structured qualitative interviews of headache providers across the United States from various types of institutions and asked them their perspectives on remote access to patient headache diary data. We transcribed the interviews, which were then coded by two independent coders. Themes and sub‐themes were developed using inductive content analysis.

Results

All clinicians felt the RM data needed to be integrated into the electronic medical record. Six themes emerged from the interviews: (i) Clinician perspectives on how RM could be beneficial but at other times could create obstacles/challenges, (ii) operationally, data integration could benefit headache care, (iii) there should be initial logistical considerations for bringing RM into clinical care, (iv) education may need to be provided to both patients and clinicians, (v) there are likely research benefits associated with RM, and (vi) additional suggestions for considering potential integration of RM into practice.

Conclusions

While headache clinicians had mixed opinions on the benefits/challenges that RM presents to patient care, patient satisfaction, and visit time, new ideas emerged that may help advance the field.
Biopsychosocial treatment response among youth with continuous headache: A retrospective, clinic‐based study
Authors: Reidy Brooke L. , Riddle Emily J. , Powers Scott W. , Slater Shalonda K. , Kacperski Joanne , Kabbouche Marielle , Peugh James L. , Hershey Andrew D.
Published: June 2023

Background

Youth with continuous (always present) headache are vastly understudied; much remains to be understood regarding treatment response in this population.

Objective

To describe and explore biopsychosocial factors related to initial clinical outcomes among treatment‐seeking youth with continuous headache.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study extracted data of 782 pediatric patients (i.e., aged <18 years) with continuous headache from a large clinical repository. Youth in this study had experienced continuous headache for ≥1 month before presenting to a multidisciplinary headache specialty clinic appointment. Extracted data from this appointment included patients’ headache history, clinical diagnoses, and headache‐related disability, as well as information about biopsychosocial factors implicated in headache management and/or maintenance (e.g., healthy lifestyle habits, history of feeling anxious or depressed). Additional data regarding patient headache characteristics, disability, and lifestyle habits were extracted from a subset of 529 youth who returned to clinic 4–16 weeks after their initial follow‐up visit. After characterizing initial treatment response, exploratory analyses compared youth with the best and worst treatment outcomes on several potentially influential factors.

Results

Approximately half of youth (280/526; 53.2%) continued to have continuous headache at follow‐up, ~20% of youth (51/526) reported a significant (≥50%) reduction in headache frequency. Improvements in average headache severity (e.g., percentage with severe headaches at initial visit: 45.3% [354/771]; percentage with severe headaches at follow‐up visit: 29.8% [156/524]) and headache‐related disability were also observed (e.g., percentage severe disability at initial visit: 62.9% [490/779]; percentage severe disability at initial follow‐up visit: 34.2% [181/529]). Individuals with the worst headache frequency and disability had a longer history of continuous headache (mean difference estimate = 5.76, p = 0.013) and worse initial disability than the best responders (χ2[3, 264] = 23.49, p < 0.001). They were also more likely to have new daily persistent headache (χ2[2, 264] = 12.61, p = 0.002), and were more likely to endorse feeling depressed (χ2[1, 260] = 11.46, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A notable percentage of youth with continuous headache show initial improvements in headache status. Prospective, longitudinal research is needed to rigorously examine factors associated with continuous headache treatment response.
Clinical characteristics and patient‐reported outcomes of chronic and episodic migraine patients at a US tertiary headache center: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Ahmed Zubair , Honomichl Ryan , Thompson Stephen F. , Cohen Joshua M. , Schuster Andrew , Thompson Nicolas R. , Lapin Brittany , Udeh Belinda L. , Ramirez Campos Verena , Krasenbaum Lynda J. , Katzan Irene L.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To describe differences in clinical and demographic characteristics between patients with episodic migraine (EM) or chronic migraine (CM) and determine the effect of migraine subtype on patient‐reported outcome measures (PROM).

Background

Prior studies have characterized migraine in the general population. While this provides a basis for our understanding of migraine, we have less insight into the characteristics, comorbidities, and outcomes of migraine patients who present to subspecialty headache clinics. These patients represent a subset of the population that bears the greatest burden of migraine disability and are more representative of migraine patients who seek medical care. Valuable insights can be gained from a better understanding of CM and EM in this population.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational cohort study of patients with CM or EM seen in the Cleveland Clinic Headache Center between January 2012 and June 2017. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and patient‐reported outcome measures (3‐Level European Quality of Life 5‐Dimension [EQ‐5D‐3L], Headache Impact Test‐6 [HIT‐6], Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 [PHQ‐9]) were compared between groups.

Results

Eleven thousand thirty‐seven patients who had 29,032 visits were included. More CM patients reported being on disability 517/3652 (14.2%) than EM patients 249/4881 (5.1%) and had significantly worse mean HIT‐6 (67.3 ± 7.4 vs. 63.1 ± 7.4, p < 0.001) and median [interquartile range] EQ‐5D‐3L (0.77 [0.44–0.82] vs. 0.83 [0.77–1.00], p < 0.001), and PHQ‐9 (10 [6–16] vs. 5 [2–10], p < 0.001).

Conclusions

There are multiple differences in demographic characteristics and comorbid conditions between patients with CM and EM. After adjustment for these factors, CM patients had higher PHQ‐9 scores, lower quality of life scores, greater disability, and greater work restrictions/unemployment.
Reduced breeding success in Great Black‐backed Gulls (Larus marinus) due to harness‐mountedGPSdevice
Authors: Lopez Samuel Langlois , Clewley Gary D. , Johnston Daniel T. , Daunt Francis , Wilson Jared M. , O'Hanlon Nina J. , Masden Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

Animal‐borne bio‐logging devices are routinely fitted to seabirds to learn about their behaviour and physiology, as well as their interactions with the marine environment. The assessment and reporting of deleterious impacts from such devices on the individuals carrying them is critical to inform future work and improve data quality and animal welfare. We assessed the impacts of thoracic‐harness attachments on the breeding performance and inter‐annual return rates of Great Black‐backed Gulls. We found that tagged individuals hatched fewer eggs per nest (0.67) than two different control groups (handled but not tagged – 2.0, and not handled – 1.9) and had lower hatching success rates per nest (27% compared with 81% and 82% in control groups). Inter‐annual return rates were similar between tagged and control groups, but the harness attachment potentially caused the death of an individual 5 days after deployment. Overall, the harness attachment was a lead driver of nest failure. We urge extreme caution for those wanting to use harness‐mounted devices on Great Black‐backed Gulls.
Low‐temperature synthesis of α‐Al2O3 powder aided by ball milling and a trace amount of sodium chloride
Authors: Ma Mingyuan , Wei Kaite , Wu Ruike , Liang Sen , Zhang Xiao
Published: June 2023

It is crucial to synthesize α‐Al2O3, which is a multifunctional material, at high temperatures due to the nature of the material. However, this high‐temperature preparation process is not energy efficient, which goes against the global aim of carbon neutrality. In this study, we explored the effect of adding 1 wt.% (NaCl) as an additive and a suitable amount of Al(OH)3 in a ball mill to form a precursor. The impact of NaCl and ball milling duration on the phase transition from Al(OH)3 to α‐Al2O3 at low temperatures was investigated. After the conversion from Al(OH)3 to γ‐Al2O3, the NaCl particles on the surface of γ‐Al2O3 act as diffusion channels, helping to accelerate the substance diffusion during the transition from γ‐Al2O3 to α‐Al2O3, resulting in a lower formation temperature of α‐Al2O3, which is 700°C. Additionally, the presence of NaCl results in α‐Al2O3 particles growing into hexagonal plates. The α‐Al2O3 plates produced from calcining the mixture of Al(OH)3 and NaCl at 700°C have an average diameter of 3 µm, an average diameter/thickness ratio of 10 and a specific surface area of 12.0085 m2/g. These results indicate that low‐temperature synthesis of α‐Al2O3 powder is possible by using NaCl as an additive instead of molten salt in the ball milling process.
Enhancement of Si3N4 ceramics via evolution of grain interface between ZrO2 and Si3N4 under pressureless sintering
Authors: Luo Chunxi , Li Neng , Deng Tengfei
Published: June 2023

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) as a structural ceramic material, its strength, and toughness are the decisive characteristics of damage tolerance and reliability. In this work, Si3N4 ceramics is enhanced via evolution of grain interface between Si3N4 and ZrO2, which bending strength and fracture toughness reached 982.8 MPa and 9.81 MPa·m1/2, respectively. The interface evolution of the ZrO2 and Si3N4 grains were investigated via both first‐principles molecular dynamics simulation and experiment. The Si3N4/ZrO2 interface structure was observed by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, include: (i) glass phase film, (ii) Zr3N4 film. First‐principles molecular dynamics simulation reported here provide an atomic‐level description of the formation mechanisms of the interface structure. The Si‐O bond and Zr‐N bond was formed to provide the Si3N4/ZrO2 interface bond. Moreover, the embedded‐like composite structure between Si3N4 and ZrO2 was formed during the sintering process, which can deflect cracks and result in an increase in the fracture energy. Due to the strength difference of Si3N4 and ZrO2, cracks tend to propagate through the grains of ZrO2 and deflects when it encounters the rod‐like Si3N4 grains. In the same time, the ZrO2 plays a role with respect to refinement of the β‐Si3N4 grain size and decrease of the glass phase content.
Housing instability: Exploring socioecological influences on the health of birthing people
Authors: Robinson Kelley N. , Gresh Ashley , Russell Niarah , Jeffers Noelene K. , Alexander Kamila A.
Published: June 2023

Study Aim

To describe how socioecological influences of housing instability affect pregnancy health among birthing and postpartum people.

Design

We used the socioecological framework to guide this exploratory descriptive study using semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews.

Methods

We purposively recruited birthing people in the southern mid‐Atlantic region. Seventeen one‐time, semi‐structured interviews were conducted between February 2020 and December 2021 with English‐speaking unstably housed participants ≥18 years old, currently pregnant, or recently postpartum. Qualitative and quantitative content approaches were used to analyse transcribed interviews. Dedoose software was used to identify code patterns and refine the codebook until group consensus. The team examined code patterns, explored meaning in text and codified code‐generated categories to describe experiences.

Results

Majority (82.4%) of participants were African Americans between 22 and 41 years, and most were postpartum (76.5%). Participants described multiple forms of housing instability, reasons for losing housing, challenges with finding housing and strategies for finding housing. Participants did not describe housing instability as a barrier to receiving prenatal care. Building and sustaining individual relationships and social support were prominent factors affecting their housing challenges. Participants also reported a lack of obstetric provider inquiry about housing status during pregnancy. Many reported that challenges with housing triggered mental health issues, especially depression.

Conclusion

Nurses and other obstetric providers are key points of contact in the prenatal care setting for assessing housing stability. Additionally, refining social structures and funding support services within communities and prenatal health systems should be a strategy for future programme and policy planning improvement.

Impact

This study highlights critical areas for consideration when addressing social determinants for birthing people and reinforces the need for more comprehensive assessment in the prenatal setting.

Patient or Public Contribution

Members of the public participated in this study as key informants for study interviews.
Qualitative methodological approaches involving participants with intellectual disabilities: Scoping review of literature exploring death and dying
Authors: Diaz Marissa A , Bickenbach Jerome E , Sabariego Carla , Bernard Renaldo M
Published: June 2023

Background

A paucity of qualitative research on sensitive topics that focuses on participants with intellectual disabilities leaves their views unexplored. This scoping review mainly aimed to provide an overview of qualitative data collection methods used in research involving participants with intellectual disabilities to explore death and dying.

Method

A scoping review of primary research and methodological papers published between January 2008 and March 2022 was conducted. The PRISMA‐ScR checklist was followed.

Results

We identified 25 articles utilising four data collection methods: interviews, focus groups, the Nominal Group Technique, and participant observation. Data collection trends were identified, including accommodations for participants with intellectual disabilities, visual media used as a facilitator, and reporting of distress protocols. Most participants had mild to moderate intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions

The included studies demonstrate a flexible approach that relies on the use of multiple methods. Future research must adequately report study characteristics to ensure transparency and reliability.
A case of fulminant type 1 diabetes and protein C deficiency complicated by deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Kohata Masato , Kodama Shinjiro , Yaoita Nobuhiro , Hosaka Shinichiro , Takahashi Kei , Kaneko Keizo , Imai Junta , Yasuda Satoshi , Katagiri Hideki
Published: June 2023

A 25‐year‐old man was diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at the onset of fulminant type 1 diabetes. After acute‐phase DKA treatment including placement of a central venous catheter, a massive deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were detected on hospital day 15. His protein C (PC) activity and antigen levels were low even 33 days after completing the DKA treatment, indicating partial type I PC deficiency. Severe PC dysfunction, due to overlapping of partial PC deficiency and hyperglycemia‐induced PC suppression, concomitant with dehydration and catheter treatment, may have induced the massive DVT with PE. This case suggests that anti‐coagulation therapy should be combined with acute‐phase DKA treatment in patients with PC deficiency, even those who have been asymptomatic. As patients with partial PC deficiency should perhaps be included among those with severe DVT complications of DKA, venous thrombosis should always be considered as a potential complication of DKA.
Evolution of territoriality in Hylinae treefrogs: Ecological and morphological correlates and lineage diversification
Authors: Luría-Manzano Ricardo , Pinheiro Paulo D. P. , Kohlsdorf Tiana , Haddad Célio F. B. , Martins Marcio
Published: June 2023

Given the diverse nature of traits involved in territorial defence, they may respond to different selective pressures and then exhibit distinct patterns of evolution. These selective pressures also may cause territorial behaviour to be associated with environmental and morphological variables. Such associations, however, have mostly been studied at the intraspecific level, being phylogenetic analyses of territoriality in a broad taxonomic framework rare in the literature. We used the anuran subfamily Hylinae to test (1) whether two territorial-behaviour traits with different levels of aggression—territorial call and physical combat—are evolutionarily more labile than a morphological trait used in physical combat—the spine-shaped prepollex; (2) whether reproduction in lentic waters and phytotelmata, as well as resource scarcity, might favour the occurrence of territoriality; (3) if physical combat is more important than territorial call for the evolution of body size and sexual size dimorphism and (4) the relationships between territorial-behaviour traits and lineage diversification. We mainly used the literature to build two datasets with different levels of certainty. Territorial-behaviour traits exhibited intermediate levels of phylogenetic signal in Hylinae, whereas the phylogenetic signal for the presence of the spine-shaped prepollex was strong. We found support for the hypothesis that reproduction in lentic water favours the occurrence of territorial behaviour, because the expression of territorial-behaviour traits was more associated with reproduction in lentic than in lotic waters. Territorial-behaviour traits were not correlated with annual precipitation nor with habitat complexity. Body size and sexual size dimorphism were not correlated with the presence of territorial call nor with physical combat. We identified negative correlations between diversification rates and physical combat. Relationships of territorial call and physical combat with diversification rates suggest that these territorial behaviours influence evolutionary processes in different ways.

Abstract

We used the anuran subfamily Hylinae to study the evolutionary dynamics of two territorial-behaviour traits: territorial call and physical combat. We found that these traits exhibit intermediate levels of phylogenetic signal, their expression is associated with reproduction in lentic waters and diversification rates are negatively correlated with physical combat. Photo credit Leandro Drummond.
Factors associated with recurrent emergency department visits among people living with dementia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Jones Aaron , Watt Jennifer A. , Maclagan Laura C. , Swayze Sarah , Jaakkimainen Liisa , Schull Michael J. , Bronskill Susan E.
Published: June 2023

Background

Research on factors associated with recurrent emergency department (ED) visits and their implications for improving dementia care is lacking. The objective of this study was to examine associations between the individual characteristics of older adults living with dementia and recurrent ED visits.

Methods

We used health administrative databases to conduct a population‐based retrospective cohort study among older adults with dementia in Ontario, Canada. We included community‐dwelling adults 66 years and older who visited the ED between April 1, 2010, and March 31, 2019 and were discharged home. We recorded all ED visits within one year after the baseline visit. We used recurrent event Cox regression to examine associations between repeat ED visits and individual clinical, demographic, and health service use characteristics. We fit conditional inference trees to identify the most important factors and define subgroups of varying risk.

Results

Our cohort included 175,863 older adults with dementia. ED use in the year prior to baseline had the strongest association with recurrent visits (3+ vs.0 adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 1.92 (1.89, 1.94), 2vs.0 aHR: 1.45 (1.43, 1.47), 1vs.0 aHR: 1.23 (1.21, 1.24)). The conditional inference tree utilized history of ED visits and comorbidity count to define 12 subgroups with ED revisit rates ranging from 0.79 to 7.27 per year. Older adults in higher risk groups were more likely to live in rural and low‐income areas and had higher use of anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines.

Conclusions

History of ED visits may be a useful measure to identify older adults with dementia who would benefit from additional interventions and supports. A substantial proportion of older adults with dementia have a pattern of recurrent visits and may benefit from dementia‐friendly and geriatric‐focused EDs. Collaborative medication review in the ED and closer follow‐up and engagement with community supports could improve patient care and experience.
Medicaid home and community‐based services spending for older adults: Is there a “woodwork” effect?
Authors: McGarry Brian E. , Grabowski David C.
Published: June 2023

Background

Although older adults prefer to age at home, Medicaid has a longstanding institutional bias in funding long‐term services and supports (LTSS). Some states have resisted expanding Medicaid funding for home‐ and community‐based services (HCBS) due to budgetary concerns related to the so‐called “woodwork” effect whereby individuals enroll on Medicaid to access HCBS.

Methods

To examine the implications associated with state Medicaid HCBS expansion, we obtained state‐year data for 1999–2017 from various sources. We estimated difference‐in‐differences regressions comparing outcomes in states that expanded Medicaid HCBS aggressively versus those that expanded less aggressively, controlling for several covariates. We examined a range of outcomes including Medicaid enrollment, nursing home census, Medicaid institutional LTSS spending, total Medicaid LTSS spending, and Medicaid HCBS waiver enrollment. We measured HCBS expansion by the total share of state Medicaid LTSS spending for aged and disabled persons devoted to HCBS.

Results

HCBS expansion was not associated with increased Medicaid enrollment among individuals ages 65 and older. A 1% increase in HCBS spending was associated with reductions in the state nursing home population of 47.1 residents (95% confidence interval [CI]: −80.5, −13.8) and institutional Medicaid LTSS spending of $7.3 million (95% CI: −$12.1M, −$2.4M). A $1 increase in HCBS spending was associated with $0.74 increase (95% CI: $0.57, $0.91) in total LTSS spending, suggesting each dollar directed to HCBS was offset by $0.26 savings from decreased nursing home use. Increased HCBS waiver spending was associated with more older adults receiving LTSS at a lower cost per beneficiary served relative to the nursing home setting.

Conclusions

We did not find evidence of a woodwork effect in those states that expanded Medicaid HCBS more aggressively, as measured by age 65 and older Medicaid enrollment. However, they did experience Medicaid savings from reduced nursing home use, suggesting states that expand Medicaid HCBS are able to use these additional dollars to serve more LTSS recipients.
“A lot to manage and still have some kind of a life”: How multiple myeloma impacts the function and quality‐of‐life of Black–White patient–caregiver dyads
Authors: Bates‐Fraser Lauren C. , Mills Jiona , Mihas Paul , Wildes Tanya M. , Kent Erin E. , Erisnor Gabriell , Adams Leah , Grant Shakira J.
Published: June 2023

Background

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable debilitating blood cancer associated with the lowest health related quality of life (HRQoL) of all cancers. With nearly 88% of adults aged ≥55 years at diagnosis, age‐associated physical losses, comorbidities, and social factors contribute to worsening HRQoL. This qualitative study assessed dyadic (patient–informal caregiver) perspectives on the factors contributing to HRQoL in MM survivors.

Methods

We recruited 21 dyads from the UNC‐Chapel Hill Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer between 11/2021 and 04/2022. Participants completed a single dyadic semistructured interview capturing broad perspectives on MM. We used ATLAS. ti v 9 for project management and to facilitate data analysis using the Sort and Sift, Think and Shift approach (ResearchTalk, Inc.). This iterative approach allowed the exploration and identification of themes within and across transcripts.

Results

The mean age at enrollment was 71 years (median: 71, range: 57–90) for patients and 68 years (median 67, range: 37–88) for caregivers. All dyads were racially concordant (11 Black/AA and 10 White). However, we aggregated the findings due to no consistent racial differences. Six themes related to (1) physical burden, (2) treatment challenges, (3) losses of independence, (4) caregiver burden, (5) patient and caregiver perseverance, and (6) adjustment to a new normal were identified. Dyads also experienced MM together, resulting in patients and caregivers experiencing changes in their ability to engage in physical and social activities, which further contributed to poor HRQoL. Patients' increased need for social support led to shifts in the caregiver roles, resulting in caregivers feeling burdened by their responsibilities. All dyads acknowledged the need for perseverance and adaptability to a new normal with MM.

Conclusion

The functional, psychosocial, and HRQoL of older patients with MM and their caregivers remain impacted ≥6 months after a new diagnosis highlighting clinical and research opportunities to focus on preserving or improving the health of dyads living with MM.
Microneedling with glutathione versus microneedling alone in treatment of facial melasma: Split‐face comparative study
Authors: Mohamed Marwa , beshay Yostena Mahrous Aziz , Assaf Hanan Metwally
Published: June 2023

Background

Melasma is a distressing disfiguring acquired pigmentary disorder especially affecting females and it is of high tendency of recurrence. Up till now, treatment of melasma is a challenging problem.

Objectives

We evaluated the effectiveness of microneedling with glutathione versus microneedling alone in treatment of melasma.

Patients and Methods

In this study, 29 adult females with epidermal type of melasma (confirmed with Wood's light examination) were enrolled. The affected area was subjected to microneedling using dermapen followed by application of glutathione solution on the right side only. This session was performed every 2 weeks for 3 months (six sessions for every patient). The response to therapy was measured using modified melasma area and severity index (m MASI) that were calculated on each side of the face (Hemi‐ m MASI) before treatment sessions.

Results

There was statistically significant reduction in the mean of Hemi‐ m MASI score over the sessions on both sides of the face but the right side (microneedling with glutathione) showed more reduction and earlier response to therapy than the left side (microneedling alone). On the left side, mean of Hemi‐ m MASI score before and after sessions was (4.06 ± 1.91, 2.31 ± 1.450) and on the right side, it was (4.21 ± 2.08, 1.96 ± 1.30), respectively and this was statistically significant. Percentage of improvement on the left side was 46.92 ± 16.30 (%) while on the right side was 55.17 ± 15.50 (%) and this was statistically significant.

Conclusions

Microneedling is an effective promising tool in treatment of melasma and its combination with glutathione as a whitening agent, increases and accelerates its efficacy. So, combined therapy is more preferred than monotherapy in treatment of facial melasma.