bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploration of the Role of HR Departments in Optimizing Employee Mental Wellness in the Face of Organizational Risks
Authors: Al-Twal Arwa , Gammoh Leen Adel , Zureikat Maya
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Considering mental health in organizations is crucial for several reasons, as it directly impacts the well-being and productivity of employees. This paper aims to delve into the role of the human resource (HR) department (HRD) in promoting mental health and mitigating associated organizational risks within emerging markets, with a specific focus on organizations in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative research approach, 21 semistructured interviews were conducted with employees from diverse organizations and industries in Jordan.

Findings

The study’s findings illuminate a constrained role of HRD in supporting employees’ mental well-being, attributable to several factors: (i) a perceptual gap between the actual and desired roles of HRD in fostering mental health according to employees; (ii) institutional factors dictating initiatives for mental health support at work; and (iii) societal and cultural norms shaping attitudes toward mental health, both pre- and post-COVID-19.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the intersection of HR practices and mental health support in the workplace in emerging markets, providing valuable insights for both academic and practical considerations. As organizations navigate the evolving landscape of employee well-being, this study’s findings offer a foundation for future research and the development of evidence-based strategies to enhance mental health support within organizational contexts and mitigate organizational risks.

Originality/value

This study illuminates the current landscape of human resources management development in fostering mental health at work in Jordan, serving as a foundation for future research agendas in the country and potentially the wider region.
Decoding determinants of pro-environmental behaviors of higher education students: insights for sustainable future
Authors: Zhang Yu , Du Qian , Huang Yali , Mao Yanying , Jiao Liudan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The investigation of pro-environmental behaviors (PEB) among college students is essential for future sustainability endeavors. Existing research seldomly concentrated on college students and their PEB. This study aims to address the gap in understanding PEB among college students.

Design/methodology/approach

This study constructed an integrated model combining the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the value-belief-norm (VBN) theory, with the novel addition of environmental risk perception. Through an empirical study involving 844 college students, this research analyzed the data with the structural model.

Findings

The authors identified that environmental values, attitudes, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms and risk perception play crucial roles in shaping PEB. This study also revealed age-related differences, highlighting that older students might be less influenced by attitudes and subjective norms due to more established habits. Findings underscore the importance of fostering PEB through environmental education, promotion of low-carbon lifestyle choices and incentives. This investigation not only enriches the theoretical framework for PEB but also offers practical insights for policymakers and educators to enhance sustainable practices among the youth.

Research limitations/implications

Though the authors offer valuable findings, this research has two key limitations: the use of observational data for hypothesis testing, which weakens causal inference, and the collection of data through questionnaires, which may be biased by social desirability. Respondents of self-report tend to behave in the socially desired ways. Consequently, they usually exaggerate their pro-environmental intention or PEB. To comprehend the influencing aspects more thoroughly, future research should consider incorporating experimental methods and objective data, such as digitalized data.

Practical implications

The findings provide valuable evidence for guiding college students’ PEB, including strengthening environmental education, promoting of low-carbon fashion and providing incentives for PEBs.

Originality/value

First, the authors examine the internal factors influencing PEB among Chinese university students within the “dual-carbon” initiative framework. Second, this research pioneers the use of structural equation modeling to merge TPB and VBN theories, offering a predictive model for university students’ PEB. Third, the authors introduce “environmental risk perception” as a novel variable derived from both TPB and VBN, enhancing the model’s explanatory power.
Social‐ecological memory: From concepts and methods to applications
Authors: Cardoso Ana R. , Fernandes Cláudia , Honrado João P.
Published: November 2024

Social‐ecological memory (SEM) may be a key source of resilience in social‐ecological systems (SES), allowing for renewal and reorganisation after disturbances. This study provides an overview of the genesis and evolution of the SEM concept, its research trends and gaps, and its potential applicability to geographical thought. Combining systematic review and bibliometric analysis, we collected 219 records published in the last two decades, which were reduced to 87 relevant records after applying the inclusion/exclusion criterion. The results indicate that interest in SEM research is growing, but wide acceptance and concordance around terminology are still lagging. The concept has substantially evolved and expanded over the last decade but remains mostly abstract and conceptual. Research has focused predominantly on European countries, rural contexts, and westernised societies, identified multiple disturbances and ecosystem services as driving the maintenance and evolution of SEM, and highlighted an unequal interest between social and ecological memory carriers. Our review underlines the strong pertinence of the SEM concept for the study and management of social‐ecological systems, which would benefit from the development of application strategies and tools. In the future, researchers should seek to expand the idea of social‐ecological memory into an applied field having clearer links and boundaries with more established concepts important in geography, among them traditional ecological knowledge.
Creditor litigation and corporate innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Lu Jin , Li Yaling , Zou Wenxiao
Published: November 2024

Using data from 2007 to 2021 for Chinese listed companies, this study investigates the impact of creditor litigation on corporate innovation. It finds that companies involved in creditor litigation tend to reduce innovative patent applications. This finding persists across various tests and endogeneity analyses. Further investigation uncovers that this impact is particularly pronounced in firms with high‐performance sensitivity, while it diminishes in firms with equity incentives. The mechanism analysis reveals the external pressures caused by creditor litigation, which leads to an escalation in a firm's operational expenses and compels a decrease in R&D investments, consequently constraining innovation.
Profiles of polysubstance use among people reporting past 12‐month sleep‐motivated nonmedical use of prescription tranquilizers/sedatives
Authors: Falise Alyssa M. , Prasanna Surendran Parvathy , Hoeflich Carolin C. , Striley Catherine W. , LaMontagne Liva , Lopez‐Quintero Catalina
Published: November 2024

Background and Objectives

Nonmedical use of prescription tranquilizers/sedatives (NMUPTS) is associated with a 15‐times increased likelihood of polysubstance use (PSU). This is correlated with an increased risk for use disorders and death, therefore, to inform prevention efforts, we identified PSU profiles among adults reporting sleep‐related NMUPTS.

Methods

National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2015–2019 participants with past 12‐month sleep‐related NMUPTS and use of an additional drug(s) (n = 2603) were studied. Latent class analyses identified unique latent profiles, and multivariable logistic regressions identified covariates associated with each profile.

Results

Alcohol (90.4%), tobacco (61.5%), and marijuana (55.5%) were most commonly reported, with an average of 3.6 additional substances. Two latent PSU profiles were identified: marijuana/alcohol/tobacco (MAT) (68.3%) and MAT + cocaine/hallucinogens/prescription drugs (MAT + CHPR) (31.7%). In comparison to those likely in the MAT profile, those likely in the MAT + CHPR profile had lower odds of being older than 18–25 years (26–34: adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.3, 0.6; 35–49: AOR: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1, 0.2; 50+: AOR: 0.1, 95% CI: 0.0, 0.1), female (AOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.3, 0.6), non‐Hispanic Black (AOR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.4, 0.8) or Hispanic in comparison to non‐Hispanic White (AOR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.4, 0.8), and to not have past 12‐month insurance coverage (AOR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3, 2.3).

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Two PSU profiles were identified among people with NMUPTS, with noted variations in sociodemographic characteristics. In comparison to previous studies, sleep‐related NMUPTS was associated with higher rates of stimulant use, suggesting stimulant use and sleep‐related NMUPTS may be related.
Quality of life, depression and anxiety in cerebral amyloid angiopathy: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kaushik Kanishk , Waslam Natasha G. , van der Zwet Reinier G. J. , Voigt Sabine , van Dort Rosemarie , van Zwet Erik W. , Terwindt Gisela M. , van Etten Ellis S. , Wermer Marieke J. H.
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

Data on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and mood in cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), a disease characterized by stroke and cognitive decline, are limited. We aimed to investigate the impacted domains of life, value‐based HRQoL and the prevalence of depression and anxiety in patients with CAA.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study of patients with sporadic (s)CAA, lobar dominant mixed CAA and hypertensive arteriopathy (mixed CAA‐HTA), or Dutch‐type hereditary (D‐)CAA, from prospective outpatient clinic cohorts. Participants completed four questionnaires: the EuroQoL 5 dimensions 5‐level questionnaire (EQ‐5D‐5L; EQ‐VAS for visual analogue scale; EQ‐Index for index rating), the Short‐Form 36 questionnaire (SF‐36), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies—Depression scale (CES‐D), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS; ‐D for depression and ‐A for anxiety subscales). The EQ‐5D‐5L assesses the domains mobility, self‐care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. The SF‐36 domains are physical functioning, social functioning, physical role limitations, emotional role limitations, mental health, vitality, bodily pain, and general health perceptions. We compared age‐ and sex‐ adjusted HRQoL (SF‐36 domain scores; EQ‐VAS; EQ‐Index) to the Dutch normative population, and estimated the prevalences of current depression (either: history of depression or current use of antidepressants, with high score on CES‐D [≥16] and/or HADS‐D [≥8]; or high score on both depression questionnaires) and anxiety (HADS‐A ≥ 8).

Results

We included 179 patients: 77 with sCAA (mean age: 72 years, women: 36%), 31 with mixed CAA‐HTA (68 years, women: 29%), and 71 with D‐CAA (56 years, women: 52%, symptomatic: 35 [49%]). The SF‐36 profiles of all patient groups were similar, negatively differing from the norm in emotional role functioning, social functioning and vitality. The EQ‐VAS score of patients (mean [SD] sCAA: 76 [16], D‐CAA: 77 [15]) was similar to the norm, as was the EQ‐Index score. Fifteen patients with sCAA (23%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 13%–33%), seven with mixed CAA‐HTA (27%; 95% CI 10%–44%) and eight with D‐CAA (14%; 95% CI 5%–22%) were noted as having depression. The prevalences of anxiety and depression were equivalent.

Conclusions

We found that CAA influenced emotional role functioning and aspects linked to social engagement consistently across its subtypes. One quarter of patients exhibited depressive or anxiety symptoms. Recognizing these impacted domains could enhance overall well‐being.
The chemoreceptor controlling the Wsp‐like transduction pathway in Halomonas titanicaeKHS3 binds and responds to purine derivatives
Authors: Ramos Ricciuti Fernando E. , Soldano Anabel , Herrera Seitz M. Karina , Gasperotti Ana F. , Boyko Alexandra , Jung Kirsten , Bellinzoni Marco , Lisa María‐Natalia , Studdert Claudia A.
Published: November 2024

The chemosensory pathway HtChe2 from the marine bacterium Halomonas titanicae KHS3 controls the activity of a diguanylate cyclase. Constitutive activation of this pathway results in colony morphology alterations and an increased ability to form biofilm. Such characteristics resemble the behavior of the Wsp pathway of Pseudomonas. In this work, we investigate the specificity of Htc10, the only chemoreceptor coded within the HtChe2 gene cluster. The purine derivatives guanine and hypoxanthine were identified as ligands of the recombinantly produced Htc10 ligand‐binding domain, with dissociation constants in the micromolar range, and its structure was solved by X‐ray protein crystallography. The sensor domain of Htc10 adopts a double Cache folding, with ligands bound to the membrane‐distal pocket. A high‐resolution structure of the occupied guanine‐binding pocket allowed the identification of residues involved in ligand recognition. Such residues were validated by site‐directed mutagenesis and isothermal titration calorimetry analyses of the protein variants. Moreover, heterologous expression of Htc10 in a Pseudomonas putida mutant lacking the native Wsp chemoreceptor promoted biofilm formation, a phenotype that was further enhanced by Htc10‐specific ligands. To our knowledge, this is the first description of binding specificity of a chemoreceptor that controls the activity of an associated diguanylate cyclase, opening the way for dynamic studies of the signaling behavior of this kind of sensory complex.
Through Their Eyes: Using Photovoice to Capture the Capacity‐Building Journey of Long Covid Patient Experts
Authors: Natafgi Nabil , Parris Katie , Walker Erin , Gartner Tracey , Coffin Jeanette , Mitcham Ariana , Ferrer Luis Sanchez , Patel Maushmi K. , Wymbs Haley , Kennedy Ann Blair
Published: November 2024

Background

Long Covid, characterised by persistent symptoms following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection, significantly impacts the quality of life. Engaging patients in research and care through participatory methods can enhance a shared understanding of illness and improve the relevance of research.

Objective

We define Patient Experts (PEs) as persons (including patients, caregivers and providers) who have completed a series of training sessions on team building, research methods and communication at the Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina (PES USC). This study explores the use of photovoice to document the experiences and capacity‐building journey of Long Covid PEs within PES USC.

Methods

The study employed photovoice within the COVID‐19‐Focused Virtual Patient Engagement Studio (CoVIP Studio). PEs submitted photographs and narratives at two distinct time points. Among the 18 PEs who participated in the project, 47 photos were collected during the training, and 31 were collected at the project's conclusion. Thematic analysis was conducted to capture changes in patient perspectives and engagement.

Results

Initial themes identified were “Hope through Community,” “Collaborative Education and Research” and “Strength and Endurance.” By the project's end, themes had evolved to “Working as a Team to Share and Acquire Knowledge,” “Enhanced Confidence in the Future of Care” and “Perseverance and Progress.” These findings highlight the transformative impact of patient engagement and the utility of photovoice in documenting longitudinal shifts in patient perspectives.

Conclusion

Photovoice effectively engaged Long Covid patients and captured their evolving roles and perceptions as PEs. The study underscores the value of patient‐led participatory methods in enhancing the relevance and applicability of clinical research, advocating for their broader adoption to improve patient‐centred care and research outcomes.

Patient or Public Contribution

A CoVIP Studio stakeholder advisory board (CoVIP SAB) guided the co‐development and implementation of this project. The CoVIP SAB comprised nine members with complementary skills and expertise, including three patients, three clinicians who provide care to patients with COVID‐19 and three researchers with expertise in patient‐centred research, COVID‐19 and/or patient engagement and collaborate with patients as co‐investigators. The board contributed to project design and implementation, refining photovoice prompts and shaping dissemination strategies. In addition, one PE who actively participated in all phases of the project contributed to the writing of this paper and is a coauthor. All project activities involved patients and/or caregivers with lived experience of Long Covid.
Insights into structural and proteomic alterations related to pH‐induced changes and protein deamidation in hair
Authors: Adav Sunil S. , Wu Alicia Rosabee Yu Ling , Ng Kee Woei
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The hair shaft is often exposed to shampoo and haircare products that have unknown or varying pH levels. These products contain a combination of surfactants and other active ingredients to treat the hair or the scalp. As amphoteric proteins, hair keratins have limited buffering capacity, so variations in pH can have multifaceted impacts on them. However, there is limited knowledge about how pH affects keratins and keratin‐associated proteins (KAPs). Therefore, this study aims to examine the effects of varying pH levels (pH 3–pH 12) on hair structure and analyse consequent alterations in the hair proteome using mass spectrometry‐based proteomics.

Methods

A scanning electron microscope was used to examine changes in hair‐shaft morphology due to exposure to various pH levels, while mass spectrometry was employed to analyse protein alterations.

Results

We found that exposing the hair shaft to varying pH levels led to specific effects on the cuticle, including cuticle lifting at certain pH levels, while proteomics analysis identified alterations in the hair proteome along with significant deamidation of keratins types I and II and KAPs. More pronounced effects were observed at extreme acidic conditions (pH 3) and alkaline conditions (above pH 8) on both hair morphology and hair proteins. pH levels between pH 5 and pH 7 had minimal impact on hair structure and proteins, suggesting that haircare products with pH in this range are ideal for hair‐shaft health. In contrast, alkaline pH levels were found to negatively affect hair.

Conclusions

The structure evaluation and proteomics data emphasize the critical role of pH in hair health. The extreme acidic or alkaline pH impacts the hair structure and hair proteins. The study highlights the optimal pH range for maintaining healthy hair.
Association Between Toothbrushing Habits and Self‐Rated Oral Health: Re‐Consideration of the 3‐3‐3 Toothbrushing Campaign
Authors: Lee Yu‐Rim , Jeong Jin‐Young , Lee Hwa‐Young , Shin Sun‐Jung , Park Hee‐Jung , Kim Nam‐Hee
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This study investigates the association between toothbrushing frequency and self‐rated oral health to evaluate the effectiveness of the 3‐3‐3 toothbrushing campaign.

Methods

Employing a cross‐sectional study design, we analysed responses from 13,199 adults using structured questionnaires. The dependent variable was self‐rated oral health. The independent variables were toothbrushing habits. We compared both groups; control group: twice a day and case group: three times a day. Predisposing, enabling and need factors were adjusted as confounders based on the Anderson behaviour model.

Results

Our findings reveal no significant correlation between toothbrushing frequency (twice vs. three times daily) and self‐perceived oral health status. These results suggest re‐evaluating the 3‐3‐3 campaign's recommendations. Further research is necessary to identify factors that more directly influence self‐rated oral health.

Conclusion

Our research found that increasing toothbrushing from twice to three times daily does not significantly enhance oral health, as evidenced by an odds ratio of 0.97 and a negligible Cohen's d value. We recommend public health campaigns emphasise toothbrushing quality over frequency to improve oral health outcomes.
Toxicity manifestations encountered in peptide receptor radionuclide therapy setting
Authors: Parghane Rahul V. , Basu Sandip
Published: November 2024

Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) has demonstrated immense promise as a treatment for patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NET) who have somatostatin receptor (SSTR) expression. PRRT significantly reduces tumor growth, stabilizes the disease, and prolongs survival in a significant percentage of patients with metastatic/advanced NET. It produces an important beneficial effect on the quality of life (QOL) and effectively alleviates symptoms in patients with NET. Overall, PRRT is typically well‐tolerated and most of the side effects are usually transient and subside on their own. It is, however, crucial to be cognizant of the potential toxicities associated with this treatment. This awareness will enable physicians to promptly detect, effectively manage, and prevent these toxicities by identifying high‐risk factors in NET patients. This review provides an in‐depth overview for clinicians managing NET about the toxicity of PRRT. The toxicities are stratified into acute, subacute, and long‐term based on their onset following PRRT. Potential high‐risk factors in order to treat effectively and prevent these toxicities in NET patients are presented including the management strategy. This review also discusses novel insights, perspectives, and recent advancements in predicting, preventing, and managing toxicity associated with PRRT, while offering prospective future research directions to minimize clinical toxicity and maximize the therapeutic benefits of PRRT as a treatment strategy for NET patients.
Using acoustic monitoring to reveal nearly year‐round presence of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) in the waters of southern Iceland
Authors: Chicco Carola , Papale Elena , Wensveen Paul J. , Mouy Xavier , Samarra Filipa I. P.
Published: November 2024

Icelandic waters are a crucial feeding ground for North Atlantic humpback whales, yet their occurrence in these subarctic waters remains underexplored. This study examined seasonal and diel patterns in humpback whale occurrence off the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago, southern Iceland, from June 2018 to May 2019, using automated acoustic detections from bottom‐moored hydrophones. Vocalizations were manually categorized into social calls, song fragments, or songs. Further classification identified seven social sound types and 25 unique song units. Humpback whales were detected on 126 out of 329 recording days and were present in nearly all months except April and May. Social calls were most common in summer and fall, while song fragments and songs were prevalent in winter. No diel singing pattern was observed. These findings suggest southern Iceland serves as a vital habitat for humpback whales, acting as a feeding ground in summer and a migration stopover or overwintering site in winter. The study underscores the potential of acoustic monitoring to uncover important habitats year‐round, especially when field observations are scarce, and emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring of habitat use. Continued acoustic monitoring could provide further insights into the whales' behavioral patterns and preferences, essential for their conservation.
Hyoid Bone Position and Upper Airway Morphology of Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Yaqi , Zhao Tingting , Ngan Peter , Yi Susu , Wei Zeyu , Hua Fang , He Hong
Published: November 2024

The objective of this systematic review was to summarise the existing evidence regarding hyoid bone position and upper airway morphology of children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Electronic searches were carried out in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL and WorldCat databases without any restrictions on language from inception to March 2024. The studies which compared the hyoid bone position and upper airway morphology using lateral cephalograms between children with and without OSA will be included. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale, and the meta‐analysis was conducted utilising random‐effects model. Twelve cross‐sectional studies and one case–control study were included. One study was rated as low quality, three as medium quality, five as high quality, and four as very high quality. Meta‐analysis showed that compared to healthy children, children with OSA tended to have increased distance between hyoid bone and mandibular plane (Hy‐MP, MD: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.90 to 4.77, p < 0.00001, I2 = 72%), increased distance between hyoid bone and cervical vertebra (Hy‐C3, MD: 1.54, 95% CI: 0.62 to 2.46, p = 0.001, I2 = 68%), and a smaller airway space behind the soft palate (U‐MPW, MD: −3.07, 95% CI: −4.76 to −1.38, p = 0.0004, I2 = 68%). Whereas there was no significant difference in inferior posterior airway space between children with OSA and healthy controls (IPAS, MD: −1.51, 95% CI: −3.37 to 0.35, p = 0.11, I2 = 71%). In children with OSA, the hyoid bone may exhibit a more anterior and inferior position and the airway posterior to the soft palate demonstrated a narrower dimension. Registration: PROSPERO (CRD42024528171)
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Oral Diseases
Authors: Gao Pengfei , Zhou Jun , Sun Lu , Liu Dayong
Published: November 2024

Objective

To summarize the current knowledge of the neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and its critical role in various oral diseases.

Methods

We reviewed the recent research on NETs through PubMed and Web of Science. An analysis of recent research results was summarized from three aspects: NETs induction and formation, functions of NETs, and NETs in oral diseases.

Results

The relationship between neutrophils and NETs is critical to the body's defense against microbial invasion. NETs can effectively combat pathogens with an anti‐inflammatory effect and meanwhile it can contribute to inflammation. Moreover, it can synergize with other immune cells to respond to stimuli, such as pathogens, host‐derived mediators, and drugs. It was revealed that NETs play different roles to influence various oral diseases like periodontitis, endodontic infection, oral mucosal diseases, maxillofacial tumors, and many other oral diseases.

Conclusion

The balance between the protective and potentially harmful effects of NETs is a key factor in determining the outcome of infections and inflammatory responses. The role of NETs in oral diseases needs to be further studied to enable better understanding of its role in the different oral diseases.
Stable isotopes disentangle niche partitioning and co‐occurrence in a multi‐species marine mutualism
Authors: Titus Benjamin M. , Froehlich Catheline Y. M. , Vondriska Clayton , Baker Ronald , Caves Eleanor M.
Published: November 2024

Ecologists have long sought general explanations for the co‐occurrence of ecologically similar taxa. Niche theory explains co‐occurrence via functional differences among taxa that reduce competition and promote resource partitioning. Alternatively, the unified neutral theory of biodiversity and biogeography suggests that co‐occurrence can be attributed to stochastic processes, and thus, presupposes that ecologically similar species that occur in sympatry are functionally analogous. We test these hypotheses using the most diverse crustacean‐sea anemone symbiosis from coral reefs in the Tropical Western Atlantic. δ13C and δ15N stable isotope analyses of six crustacean symbionts that co‐occur around the host anemone Bartholomea annulata exhibit highly differentiated isotopic niche space spanning several trophic levels. As multiple crustacean species within the symbiosis have been documented as cleaners that remove parasites from reef fishes, we extended our investigation into the broader cleaner community. Our stable isotope analyses of cleaners shows that Pederson's cleaner shrimp Ancylomenes pedersoni exhibits the highest δ15N isotopic values‐ significantly higher than all other putative cleaner species and consistent with expectations of a dedicated cleaning lifestyle. However, for other species previously described or observed to clean reef fishes, including Periclimenes yucatanicus, Stenopus hispidus and Stenorhynchus seticornis, δ15N isotopic values were substantially lower, raising questions about the degree to which these species rely on cleaning interactions to meet their nutritional requirements. Taken together, our data are consistent with the expectations of niche theory: co‐occurring symbiotic crustaceans have highly partitioned niche space with low levels of functional redundancy.
Differences in species composition between calcareous and siliceous herbaceous communities are primarily explained by competition in favourable climates
Authors: Michalet Richard , Gresse Johanne , Randé Hugo , Reis Marina , Saccone Patrick , Touzard Blaise , Delerue Florian
Published: November 2024

Difference in vegetation composition between communities from calcareous and siliceous soils might be due to high competition on siliceous soils for species from calcareous origin, and high rock‐induced drought stress on calcareous soils for species from siliceous origin. We tested the hypothesis that, with increasing climate stress, competition should decrease on siliceous rock for species of calcareous origin and drought stress increase on calcareous rock for species of siliceous origin because of decreasing community biomass with increasing cold or drought stress. This question is of high interest for predicting changes in species distribution with climate change since bedrock type and climate change are both complex factors that are likely to interact with climate. We set up a transplant removal experiment in contrasting climate conditions of the south of France, warm and wet temperate, warm and dry Mediterranean, and cold temperate in the Alps and the Pyrenees. In each climate condition, three targets (two species and one population from a third species) from each origin were transplanted with and without neighbours on the two rock types and during two years with different levels of drought stress. Variation in the effects of neighbours and rock‐induced drought stress on transplant survival with and without neighbours were analysed with linear modelling at each site, separately, and with ANCOVA in the whole design. Competition was the highest on siliceous rock in the more favourable climate conditions but for species of siliceous origin. The lower competition found for species of calcareous origin was likely due to the occurrence of allelopathic effects that decreased the negative effect of neighbours as measured with the removal method. The rock‐induced drought stress was the highest on calcareous rock, in particular for species of siliceous origin. Thus, the decrease in competition intensity on siliceous rocks with increasing climate stress was more important for species from siliceous than calcareous origin. Additionally, the importance of the rock‐induced drought stress was relatively low in the most stressful climate conditions as compared to the overwhelming importance of climate drought stress over the two years of our experiment, which likely induced a collapse of the positive effect of growing on a siliceous rock.
Interspecific competition reduces seed dispersal in an annual plant and slows simulated range expansions
Authors: McHugh Erin E. , Urquhart Carla A. , Lustenhouwer Nicky , Williams Jennifer L.
Published: November 2024

Understanding the factors influencing how fast populations can spread across the landscape will be crucial as species ranges shift due to climate change. While the role of abiotic factors in determining expansion speed has been well studied in theory and empirical research, how competition impacts speed has received far less attention. Here, we investigated how seed dispersal distances change in response to competition and how these changes to distributions of dispersed seeds impact expansion speed. We dispersed four genotypes of the annual plant Arabidopsis thaliana with variation in life history traits into greenhouse mesocosms of either empty habitat or habitat containing the annual grass competitor, Lolium multiflorum. We found that competition decreased both mean and maximum dispersal distance. We then built a simulation model of range expansion with experimental data from this and a prior experiment to explore whether competition slows species expansions primarily through decreasing dispersal or fecundity. We found that competition primarily slows expansion speed through decreases in dispersal, but that when competition impacts both dispersal and fecundity, expansions slow more than with dispersal alone. The genotype with traits associated with longer distance dispersal was the most affected by competition in both experimental dispersal and simulations. This research suggests that not only does competition slow range expansions through decreases in both fecundity and dispersal, but that there may be consequences for evolutionary processes at the leading edge.
Myopia control strategies: A systematic review and meta‐meta‐analysis
Authors: Zaabaar Ebenezer , Asiamah Randy , Kyei Samuel , Ankamah Samuel
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To summarise pooled estimates of the efficacies of various myopia control interventions, as drawn from published meta‐analyses.

Method

PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science were searched from inception to February 2024 for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses reporting treatment effects of various myopia control strategies. The qualities of the included meta‐analyses were assessed using the 16‐item A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) 2. An intervention was defined as having a clinically significant effect if it resulted in a change in spherical equivalent refraction (SER) of ≥0.50 D/year or axial length (AL) change of ≤−0.18 mm/year.

Results

A total of 38 studies were identified. The overall respective changes in SER and AL, mean difference (95% CI) were high‐concentration (≥0.5%) atropine 0.67 D (0.58–0.77) and −0.24 mm (−0.36 to −0.11); moderate‐concentration (>0.05% to <0.5%) atropine 0.48 D (0.34–0.62) and −0.23 mm (−0.27 to −0.19); low‐concentration (0.01%, 0.025%, 0.05%) atropine 0.33 D (0.23–0.43) and −0.14 mm (−0.19 to −0.09); orthokeratology −0.47 mm (−0.66 to −0.28); peripheral plus soft contact lenses 0.30 D (0.18–0.42) and −0.35 mm (−0.62 to −0.08); peripheral plus spectacles 0.77 D (0.40–1.14) and −0.43 mm (−0.78 to −0.08); multifocal spectacles 0.21 D (0.11–0.31); repeated low‐level red light therapy 0.55 D (0.46–0.65) and −0.25 mm (−0.29 to −0.20); outdoor time 0.17 D (0.16–0.18) and −0.04 mm (−0.06 to −0.01).

Conclusion

High and moderate concentrations of atropine, orthokeratology, peripheral plus spectacles and repeated low‐level red light demonstrated clinically significant effects on slowing AL elongation, while high and moderate concentrations of atropine, peripheral plus spectacles and repeated low‐level red light demonstrated clinically significant effects on slowing SER progression.
Study on the fabrication of high-quality hafnium oxide thin films using spatial rotated atomic layer deposition and supercritical fluids treatment
Authors: Lee Wen-Hsi , Feng Chien-Ching , Chen Guan-Fu , Kuo Tai-Chen
Published: November 2024

This study explores the experimental outcomes and discussions surrounding the deposition of high-quality hafnium oxide (HfO2) thin films using spatial rotated atomic layer deposition (SRALD). The primary objective was to enhance the efficiency of ALD processes while maintaining film quality comparable to conventional methods. The SRALD system, developed by Kudos Nano Technology, was employed to deposit HfO2 films over a four-step process. Following deposition, the films underwent high-pressure annealing and supercritical fluids treatment, which are known for reducing thermal budgets. The key findings revealed that high-pressure annealing resulted in a significant reduction in the leakage current by up to 50%, while supercritical fluids treatment improved the dielectric constant of the films, reaching values as high as 23. These treatments also contributed to enhancing the uniformity and density of the films, as confirmed by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy and x-ray reflectometry analyses. The electrical properties of the resulting metal–insulator–semiconductor capacitors were thoroughly investigated, demonstrating a marked improvement in capacitance-voltage characteristics with minimal hysteresis.
Specific Features of Modeling Nanofluid Flows (a Review)
Authors: Rudyak V. Ya.
Published: November 2024

Problems arising when modeling nanofluids are discussed. The possibility of using two- and one-fluid descriptions is analyzed. The thermophysical properties of nanofluids are reviewed and it is shown that their viscosity and thermal conductivity depend not only on the concentration of nanoparticles, but also on their size and material. The behavior of similarity parameters and their dependence on the concentration, size and material of nanoparticles are studied in detail. It is shown that in the general case it is impossible to solve the problem simply by varying the similarity parameters. Two examples of solving the problem of heat transfer of two different nanofluids, with conventional spherical nanoparticles and with carbon nanotubes, are given. In the latter case, the nanofluid is non-Newtonian. It has been shown that nanofluids make it possible to obtain very high values of excess of the heat transfer coefficient.
Solid aneurysmal bone cyst of cuboid: rare location and diagnostic conundrum
Authors: Shanmuganathan Saktthi , Singh Shaurya Vikram , Vijayan Sandeep , Kulkarni Mahesh Suresh
Published: November 2024

The solid variant of aneurysmal bone cyst is an expansile cystic lesion involving long tubular bones with unknown aetiology and usually occurs in the second decade of life. This is a paradigm of fibrocystic lesions. We report the rare case of a male with a biopsy-proven solid variant aneurysmal bone cyst of the cuboid that was mistakenly diagnosed as osteomyelitis. He presented with clinical features suggestive of infective aetiology in the cuboid and was planned for debridement as the radiological investigations were also in agreement. Intraoperatively, the absence of pus and the gross appearance of cuboid raised suspicion and the tissue sampled for biopsy revealed a solid variant of aneurysmal bone cyst. The patient was managed with thorough curettage and antibiotic-filled calcium granule augmentation. The patient returned to his normal functional level without evidence of any recurrence.
Intraosseous lipoma of the talus
Authors: Vijayan Sandeep , Tripathi Ankit , Kulkarni Mahesh Suresh , Shanmuganathan Saktthi
Published: November 2024

Lipomas of the talus are rare benign bone lesions. They are usually atraumatic in aetiology with a male preponderance and generally occur between the third and sixth decades of life. We report the case of a man in his 30s who had presented with pain and swelling in the posteromedial aspect of his left ankle of 6 months’ duration, associated with functional restrictions, and was diagnosed as a case of intraosseous lipoma involving the talus. The patient was managed surgically by extended curettage and iliac crest bone grafting. After a period of 1 year, he was able to perform all activities and no recurrence was observed.
Aquagenic urticaria: presentation, diagnosis and management
Authors: Abdi Parsa , Diamond Cody , Stuckless Jennifer M
Published: November 2024

Aquagenic urticaria, a rare dermatological condition characterised by urticarial eruptions following water contact, poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This condition, although uncommon, necessitates heightened clinical awareness due to its substantial impact on the patient’s quality of life. We present a comprehensive account of a paediatric case involving a girl in her mid-teens, who developed recurrent wheals post-exposure to water, independent of its temperature or source. Diagnosis hinged on a detailed clinical history and a definitive water provocation test, with routine laboratory assessments yielding no contributory findings. The therapeutic regimen featuring cetirizine yielded significant symptomatic relief. Although antihistamines are the cornerstone of treatment, the differential response among individuals necessitates an individualised approach, considering adjunctive treatments such as omalizumab and ultraviolet therapy. This case reinforces the critical role of clinical acumen in the recognition and diagnosis of aquagenic urticaria and calls for further research into its pathophysiology to refine treatment strategies.
Is hip adductor or abductor strength in healthy athletes associated with future groin pain? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Quintana-Cepedal Marcos , Vicente-Rodríguez Germán , Crespo Irene , Olmedillas Hugo
Published: November 2024

Objective

To systematically review the association between hip adduction and abduction strength, and adduction-to-abduction strength ratio in healthy athletes with the occurrence of future groin pain and time-loss groin injuries.

Design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Data sources

PubMed, Web of Science, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, Embase, and Scopus.

Eligibility criteria

Studies included had to (1) measure hip adductor or abductor strength in healthy athletes, (2) conduct a follow-up period to assess the occurrence of groin pain, (3) present strength data separately for participants who remained uninjured and those who suffered an injury and (4) use a prospective design. Risk of bias was assessed according to the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool. The certainty in the evidence appraised was measured using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation approach.

Results

Thirteen prospective cohort studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall study risk of bias was rated as low. Players who remained uninjured had stronger adduction strength compared with players who subsequently suffered groin pain (standardised mean differences with 95% CIs (SMD=−0.5, 95% CI −0.92 to −0.09)) and time-loss groin pain (SMD=−0.68, 95% CI −1.31 to −0.06). Trivial effects were observed for abduction strength (groin pain SMD=0.03, 95% CI −0.11 to 0.17; time-loss SMD=−0.07, 95% CI −0.25 to 0.11) and adduction-to-abduction strength ratio (groin pain SMD=−0.02, 95% CI −0.55 to 0.51; time-loss SMD=−0.11, 95% CI −1.11 to 0.89). Age and diagnostic criteria were not significant moderators of the relationship between adductor strength and groin pain (p=0.72 and p=0.12).

Conclusion

There is a moderate effect of hip adductor strength on the occurrence of groin pain, while there is no relationship between either abductor strength or the ratio of adductor-to-abductor strength with the occurrence of groin pain.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024548630.
‘I just don’t want them to be my patient again’: an exploratory mixed-methods study examining provider home safety concerns for adolescents with acquired brain injuries in the US Midwest
Authors: Anderson Sarah E , Schroedle Sarah , Stamper Taylor , Lundine Jennifer P , Patterson Emily S , DiGiovine Carmen P , Swearingen Scott , Wengerd Lauren R , Darragh Amy R
Published: November 2024

Objective

Adolescents with acquired brain injuries are at risk for additional injuries after hospital discharge. We asked healthcare providers to identify and prioritise urgent hazards in the home setting for this population.

Methods

We used a convergent mixed methods approach. Healthcare providers who do discharge planning and community re-integration for adolescent patients with brain injury were recruited from hospitals in the US Midwest. Participants completed two structured surveys, semi-structured interviews and a Hazard Prioritisation Matrix Activity. We analysed quantitative data via descriptive statistics and qualitative data via inductive thematic analysis to identify hazards, urgency, interactive themes and generate a conceptual model.

Results

All participants validated four preidentified hazards in the surveys and the interviews: slippery objects on the floor, large furniture/objects in the path of travel, unattended open flames and inappropriate use of cooking appliances. 59 hazards were self-identified during the Hazard Priority Matrix Activity and assigned an urgency rating, with 12 (20.3%) urgent, 20 (33.9%) major, 19 (32.2%) moderate and 8 (13.6%) minor risks. We identified seven interactive themes about hazard factors: hazardous activities, hazardous situations, hazardous objects, hazardous others, hazardous spaces, harms and client factors. A conceptual model for home safety concerns links hazards, risks and harms.

Conclusions

Adolescents with acquired brain injuries need healthcare providers to recognise unique and complex hazards in their homes that could lead to harm. Mitigating home hazards may prevent additional unintentional injury for these adolescents. More research is needed to generalise this information for this population across clinical settings.

Trial registration number

NCT04768946.
Spectrum of hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis due to T60A(p.Thr80Ala) variant in an Irish Amyloidosis Network
Authors: Hewitt Katie , Starr Neasa , Togher Zara , Sulong Saadah , Morris Joseph P , Alexander Michael , Coyne Mark , Murphy Katie , Giblin Gerard , Murphy Sinéad M , Joyce Emer
Published: November 2024

Background

Variant transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) is a hereditary multisystem disorder with clinical spectrum ranging from predominant cardiomyopathy to polyneuropathy. In the Irish population, the T60A mutation has been previously recognised as the most common genotype.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to describe the diagnostic and phenotypic spectrum of patients with T60A ATTRv attending an Irish Expert Amyloidosis Network.

Methods

In this observational study design, the medical, laboratory and radiological records of patients enrolled in our amyloidosis registry with a confirmed genotype diagnosis of T60A ATTRv were reviewed.

Results

A cohort of 24 patients (12 female) met criteria for inclusion. The median age at diagnosis was 65 years (IQR 59.5–66.5) and median follow-up 44 months (IQR 31–58). Carpal tunnel syndrome was the initial manifestation in almost half (46%) of patients. Overall, a mixed cardioneuro phenotype was demonstrated including autonomic (75%), small (58%) and large fibre (46%) neuropathy largely predating a cardiac phenotype consisting of heart failure (63%), atrial arrhythmia (42%) and bradycardia (13%).

Conclusion

The contemporary clinical spectrum of T60A ATTRv in Ireland is one of patients typically presenting in the seventh decade with an already manifest neuropathy phenotype, largely predating a cardiac phenotype dominated by heart failure.