bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of phenylephrine on systemic and cerebral circulations in humans: a systematic review with mechanistic explanations
Authors: Meng L. , Sun Y. , Zhao X. , Meng D. M. , Liu Z. , Adams D. C. , McDonagh D. L. , Rasmussen M.
Published: November 2023

We conducted a systematic review of the literature reporting phenylephrine‐induced changes in blood pressure, cardiac output, cerebral blood flow and cerebral tissue oxygen saturation as measured by near‐infrared spectroscopy in humans. We used the proportion change of the group mean values reported by the original studies in our analysis. Phenylephrine elevates blood pressure whilst concurrently inducing a reduction in cardiac output. Furthermore, despite increasing cerebral blood flow, it decreases cerebral tissue oxygen saturation. The extent of phenylephrine's influence on cardiac output (r = ‐0.54 and p = 0.09 in awake humans; r = ‐0.55 and p = 0.007 in anaesthetised humans), cerebral blood flow (r = 0.65 and p = 0.002 in awake humans; r = 0.80 and p = 0.003 in anaesthetised humans) and cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (r = ‐0.72 and p = 0.03 in awake humans; r = ‐0.24 and p = 0.48 in anaesthetised humans) appears closely linked to the magnitude of phenylephrine‐induced blood pressure changes. When comparing the effects of phenylephrine in awake and anaesthetised humans, we found no evidence of a significant difference in cardiac output, cerebral blood flow or cerebral tissue oxygen saturation. There was also no evidence of a significant difference in effect on systemic and cerebral circulations whether phenylephrine was given by bolus or infusion. We explore the underlying mechanisms driving the phenylephrine‐induced cardiac output reduction, cerebral blood flow increase and cerebral tissue oxygen saturation decrease. Individualised treatment approaches, close monitoring and consideration of potential risks and benefits remain vital to the safe and effective use of phenylephrine in acute care.
Interaction between posttraumatic stress symptoms and posttraumatic growth among adolescents who experience an earthquake: A repeated longitudinal study
Authors: Wang Wenchao , Li Yang , Yuan Hao , Wu Xinchun
Published: November 2023

For adolescents who experience an earthquake, posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSSs) and posttraumatic growth (PTG) often co‐occur. However, no study has yet examined how the interaction between them changes from the short term to the long term after an earthquake. This study conducted six surveys among local adolescents across three waves after the Wenchuan earthquake, and a directed network of PTSS and PTG co‐occurrence was constructed for each wave. It was found that the bridge nodes between PTSSs and PTG were different for each wave. The connection between PTSSs and PTG became loose over time. The incubation effect of PTSSs on PTG was sustained until the middle term but was not observed in the long term. The suppression effect of PTSSs on PTG was only observed in the short term. PTG not only alleviated PTSSs but also exacerbated PTSSs. Finally, the effect of PTSSs on PTG was much stronger than that of PTG on PTSSs. This study suggests that efforts should be made to alleviate specific PTSSs or facilitate specific PTG elements among adolescents for different terms after an earthquake, and PTG is more likely to be an outcome of trauma rather than a strategy for coping with trauma.
Trends in the prevalence rates and predictive factors of coeliac disease: A long‐term nationwide follow‐up study
Authors: Taavela Juha , Kurppa Kalle , Jääskeläinen Tuija , Kaartinen Niina E. , Rissanen Harri , Huhtala Heini , Mäki Markku , Kaukinen Katri
Published: November 2023

Background

The prevalence of coeliac disease doubled in Finland from 1980 to 2000.

Aims

To investigate whether this increase is continuing and if there are specific patient‐related factors predicting the development of coeliac disease at a population level.

Methods

We elicited comprehensive health data in the nationwide Health 2000 and Health 2011 surveys. Serum samples were taken for the measurement of tissue transglutaminase antibodies (TGA); subjects who were seropositive were tested for endomysial antibodies (EmA). Coeliac disease was defined either as a reported diagnosis or as positive TGA and EmA. The surveys comprised, respectively, 6379 and 4056 individuals, forming representative samples for 2,946,057 and 2,079,438 Finnish adults. Altogether 3254 individuals participating in both surveys comprised a prospective follow‐up cohort.

Results

Prevalence of coeliac disease was 2.12% in 2000 and 2.40% in 2011 (p = 0.156). In the prospective cohort, 16 out of the 3254 (0.49%) subjects developed coeliac disease during follow‐up from 2000 to 2011, with an annual incidence rate of 45 per 100,000 persons. Positive TGA without EmA (OR: 133, 95% CI: 30.3–584), TGA values in the upper normal range (51.1, 16.0–163), and after adjusting for TGA, previous autoimmune co‐morbidity (8.39, 4.98–35.9) in 2000 increased the likelihood of subsequent coeliac disease.

Conclusions

The nationwide prevalence of coeliac disease kept on rising from 2.12% in 2000 to 2.40% in 2011 in Finland. Positive TGA without EmA, TGA titres in the upper normal range and a pre‐existing autoimmune disease predisposed to coeliac disease during the 10‐year follow‐up.
Using multiple plant functional types to assess response to prescribed burn season in Mediterranean‐climate vegetation
Authors: Thomsen Alexandria M. , Davies Richard J. P. , Ooi Mark K. J.
Published: November 2023

Questions

Prescribed burning is a key tool for managing vegetation for conservation in fire‐prone ecosystems around the world. Plants are adapted to particular fire regimes, made up of components including fire frequency and seasonality. However, burning outside historical regime parameters may impact species recovery and subsequent community assembly. We asked (i) do shrub species respond differently to spring and autumn fires, the primary times for prescribed burns in many temperate regions and (ii) does the use of novel functional groups, based on seed and seed bank traits, allow more robust predictions of response to shifting fire season?

Location

Mediterranean‐climate southern Australia.

Methods

We surveyed 10 common shrub species to examine the impact of fire season on mortality, resprout vigour and seedling recruitment, using three functional groups: fire response (obligate seeder vs resprouter), seed storage (soil‐ vs canopy‐stored), and seed dormancy class [physical (PY) vs morphophysiological (MPD)]. We also analysed individual species to assess species‐specific responses.

Results

Obligate seeding and canopy seed‐storing functional groups were negatively impacted by spring burns, with recruitment levels one third of that observed after autumn burns. For species with soil‐stored seed banks, impacts of burn season were mediated by seed dormancy class, with PY species performing worse than their seasonally emerging MPD counterparts. Some individual species responded in stark contrast to others within their functional group.

Conclusion

Functional groups widely used to predict recovery, usually based on resprouting response and fire frequency, may not robustly predict responses to some fire factors, such as fire season. Our results highlight the importance that fire seasonality has on species response and potentially subsequent community assembly. We propose utilising multiple functional groups when assessing risk from shifting fire seasonality or when exploring impacts of multiple fire regime elements, and species‐focused studies when managing species at high risk of extinction.
Microaggressions, cancel culture, safe spaces, and academic freedom: A private property rights argumentation
Authors: Bagus Philipp , Daumann Frank , Follert Florian
Published: November 2023

Science is critical and thrives on discourse. However, new challenges for science and academic freedom have arisen from an often‐discussed cancel culture and an increasing demand for safe spaces, which are justified by their assumed protection against microaggressions. These phenomena can impede scientific progress and innovation by prohibiting certain thought processes and heterodox ideas that eventually result in new ideas, publications, statements, etc. In this paper, we use the approach of property rights ethics to shed light on these phenomena, especially in academia. First, we argue that microaggressions must be generally tolerated according to property rights ethics as the starting point for discussion. Then, we analyze cancel culture and safe spaces in academia. To this end, we distinguish between two basic cases in the educational system. We show that cancel culture and safe spaces seem justifiable in a private education system but have no place in public, tax‐funded universities from the perspective of property ethics. Our essay contributes, on the one hand, to the economic analysis of science and, on the other hand, to the ethical study of new phenomena in modern societies.
Naringin acts as a TRPV1 antagonist to attenuate UVB‐induced senescence and damage in HaCaT cells
Authors: Zhu Ying‐jie , Chen Hu‐lin , Cai Xin‐jie , Zhan Bang‐le , Liu Xiao‐ming
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to explore the mechanism of naringin (Nar) in alleviating ultraviolet B (UVB)‐induced HaCaT cell senescence and damage. Human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) were divided into control, UVB, UVB + Nar, UVB + Cap, and UVB + Nar + Cap groups. Analysis was performed using the MTT assay to assess cell viability, flow cytometry to measure the apoptosis level, SA‐β‐Gal staining to observe cellular senescence, and Western blot to assess protein levels of TRPV1, p16, p53, p21, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1, and MMP‐9. Both UVB irradiation and capsaicin (Cap) treatment upregulated the expression of TRPV1 in HaCaT cells, inhibited cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, and increased the expression of p16, p53, p21, MMP‐1, and MMP‐9. Nar treatment reversed the above effects via inhibition of TRPV1 expression, thereby relieving senescence and cell damage induced by UVB irradiation. Taken together, these findings suggest that Nar can reduce UVB‐induced senescence and damage in HaCaT cells by acting as an antagonist of TRPV1.
Species‐specific herbivore–herbivore interactions and plant responses to sequential attack by multiple herbivores on a perennial woody plant
Authors: Yang Sha , Guo Wenfeng , Tang Yun , Li Xiaoqiong
Published: November 2023

When plants are sequentially attacked by multiple herbivores, herbivore identity and host specialization can greatly influence the patterns of herbivore–herbivore and plant–herbivore interactions. However, how prior herbivory and the resulting induced plant responses potentially affect subsequent herbivores deserves further investigation. In this study, we conducted a common‐garden experiment that manipulated sequential herbivory by the specialist caterpillar Gadirtha fusca Pogue (Lepidoptera: Nolidae) and the generalist caterpillar Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Chinese tallow, Triadica sebifera (L.) Small (Euphorbiaceae). We tested how prior exposure to herbivores with different levels of host specialization affected the performance of subsequently arriving con‐ and heterospecifics, as well as plant growth and defense responses under subsequent herbivory. We found that prior exposure to the specialist G. fusca facilitated the performance of subsequent conspecifics, resulting in a significant decrease in the growth (height and stem diameter at ground level) of tallow plants. However, prior exposure to the generalist S. litura did not affect the feeding of subsequent con‐ or heterospecifics or the growth of tallow plants. Sequential herbivory by specialist and generalist conspecifics resulted in lower levels of tannins and flavonoids, respectively, in leaves of tallow plants, whereas sequential herbivory by the two species did not affect the levels of tannins or flavonoids, compared to a single damage event. We conclude that herbivore species‐specific plant responses appear to be more important than herbivore identity or specialization in determining herbivore–herbivore interactions and plant responses to sequential herbivore attack.
The role of international cooperation in the development of vocational education in Ukraine
Authors: Borodiyenko Oleksandra , Melnyk Oksana , Nychkalo Nellia
Published: November 2023

Since gaining independence, Ukraine has recognised the need to reform its vocational education and training (VET) system to better align with new economic realities. This necessity was largely driven by the country's increasing openness to the world and its desire to integrate with the European Union, which became especially pronounced after the Euromaidan protests in 2014. As a result, the government has pursued policies that are more closely aligned with the European Union. This led to greater international cooperation in the sphere of VET in Ukraine. The study on which this article reports analyses the impact of international organisations and cooperation programmes, as well as actions, initiatives and projects, on the changes and reforms in the Ukrainian VET system from 2013 to 2022 on normative and institutional levels. We adopt a theoretical framework that explains the areas and instruments of influence on policymaking in education used by international organisations. The method applied in the study is interviews with experts from international projects and initiatives currently active in Ukraine. Our findings indicate that international cooperation programmes have had a significant impact on the development of vocational education in Ukraine, particularly in areas such as the governance of the VET system, public‐private partnerships, quality assurance, qualifications frameworks, and digitalisation.
Impact of school lockdown on access to online instruction during the war in Ukraine
Authors: Ovcharuk Oksana , Ivaniuk Iryna , Leshchenko Mariya
Published: November 2023

Quarantine measures in connection to the COVID‐19 pandemic challenged the education system in Ukraine, like the education systems of other countries. This manifested over the course of three years in an increased need to develop distance learning online. Also, teacher ability to use digital tools, such as information communication technology (ICT), for instruction online is crucial in wartime circumstances in Ukraine. We describe the effects of school lockdown on teachers in Ukraine and how this affected teacher abilities to use distance instruction online in wartime circumstances. Drawing on a large‐scale survey of 54,254 educators conducted in January–February 2022, we report on challenges and needs identified by teachers in Ukraine. The survey collected responses from teachers and other categories of educators. Our analysis of survey findings focus on key challenges and needs of teachers and schools during the COVID‐19 quarantine. Respondents identified the following challenges: (1) lacking access to ICT equipment; (2) lacking access to stable high‐speed internet; (3) an insufficient level of knowledge and skills in using ICTs (digital competence). The study on which this article reports outlined possibilities for the professional development of teachers in Ukraine, complemented with a teacher self‐assessment of digital competence. The findings demonstrate that methods for organising online education in wartime circumstances in Ukraine benefit from the active interaction of all participants in the education process, their adaptability to changing learning conditions, continued communication about needs, notably teacher abilities to use ICT, and the ICT capacity of institutions.
Late‐onset Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia post‐allogeneic stem cell transplantation after time‐dependent discontinuation of prophylaxis
Authors: Stavi Vered , Desai Nihar , Michelis Fotios V. , Kim Dennis Dong Hwan , Kumar Rajat , Lipton Jeffrey Howard , Law Arjun Datt
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is a rare complication of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Primary prophylaxis for 6–12 months post‐HSCT is the standard approach. However, there is no consensus regarding the optimal duration of prophylaxis.

Methods

We identified patients who developed PJP more than 1‐year post‐HSCT. All patients had previously received 12 months of PJP prophylaxis. PJP was diagnosed based on clinical findings and the detection of P. jirovecii in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The CD4+ T‐cell percentage was determined using flow cytometry. Data expressed as median (interquartile range).

Results

Ten patients developed PJP at 17.5 months (16–24 months) post‐HSCT. PJP diagnosis occurred 5.5 months (3–15 months) after discontinuing prophylaxis. Eight patients received anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) as graft versus host disease (GVHD) prophylaxis. At diagnosis, only one patient had lymphopenia; all patients had CD4+ T‐lymphocyte counts ≥0.2 × 109/L (median 0.337 × 109/L). Three patients had concomitant bacterial infections. The clinical presentation was mild; only three required hospitalization, none of them required intensive care and there were no deaths.

Conclusion

There is a need to develop risk‐adapted prophylactic strategies in the contemporary era using ATG‐based GVHD prophylaxis.
New perspectives on microbiome and nutrient sequestration in soil aggregates during long‐term grazing exclusion
Authors: Ju Wenliang , Fang Linchuan , Shen Guoting , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Chen Ji , Zhou Guiyao , Ma Dengke , Bing Haijian , Liu Lei , Liu Ji , Jin Xiaolian , Guo Liang , Tan Wenfeng , Blagodatskaya Evgenia
Published: November 2023

Grazing exclusion alters grassland soil aggregation, microbiome composition, and biogeochemical processes. However, the long‐term effects of grazing exclusion on the microbial communities and nutrient dynamics within soil aggregates remain unclear. We conducted a 36‐year exclusion experiment to investigate how grazing exclusion affects the soil microbial community and the associated soil functions within soil aggregates in a semiarid grassland. Long‐term (36 years) grazing exclusion induced a shift in microbial communities, especially in the <2 mm aggregates, from high to low diversity compared to the grazing control. The reduced microbial diversity was accompanied by instability of fungal communities, extended distribution of fungal pathogens to >2 mm aggregates, and reduced carbon (C) sequestration potential thus revealing a negative impact of long‐term GE. In contrast, 11–26 years of grazing exclusion greatly increased C sequestration and promoted nutrient cycling in soil aggregates and associated microbial functional genes. Moreover, the environmental characteristics of microhabitats (e.g., soil pH) altered the soil microbiome and strongly contributed to C sequestration. Our findings reveal new evidence from soil microbiology for optimizing grazing exclusion duration to maintain multiple belowground ecosystem functions, providing promising suggestions for climate‐smart and resource‐efficient grasslands.
Limes physiological fruit drop extracts were incorporated into active packaging film for strawberry preservation
Authors: Xu Saiqing , Ding Zemin , Chang Xia , Xu Haishan , Ge Shuai , Xie Ying , Xu Yanqun , Luo Zisheng , Shan Yang , Ding Shenghua
Published: November 2023

The comprehensive utilisation of food waste has become a global development demand for enhancing their added value. This study aimed to develop and utilise physiological fruit drop of Citrus aurantium L. var Daidai with rich phenolic acids and flavonoids. Therefore, different concentrations (1%, 3%, 5%, 10% wt, based on pullulan weight) of daidai physiological fruit drop extracts (DE) were incorporated into pullulan/bacterial cellulose (BC) packaging film (PB2‐DE). The effects of different concentrations of DE on composite films were comprehensively evaluated. It was found that the mechanical properties, ultraviolet barrier properties, and antioxidant properties of the films were improved with the addition of DE. Moreover, application tests have verified that films containing DE can effectively maintain the attractive quality of strawberries. Conclusively, the results demonstrated the feasibility of DE incorporation into films to increase the value of the waste and the potential applicability of films containing DE in strawberry preservation.
Theorizing across boundaries: How to conduct a ‘breakout’ literature review
Authors: Gruner Richard L. , Minunno Roberto
Published: November 2023

Best practice advice for literature reviews abounds, yet little advice is available for how to infuse a literature review with theory‐generative insights that break out of knowledge silos. To address this issue, we provide guidance on reviewing a range of literature for theory‐generative insights through a process of knowledge transfers from a source domain onto a target domain. To do so, mainly building on work concerned with analogical reasoning, we put forward a ‘breakout’ review model, which consists of three iterative stages. While we illustrate the process model in a supply chain management context, we aim to assist any organizational scholar interested in exploring cross‐disciplinary literature for new ways of thinking.
Studies in fluorescence histochemistry: III. The demonstration with salicylhydrazide of the aldehydes present in periodate‐oxidized mucosubstances*
Authors: STOWARD PETER J.
Published: November 2023

SYNOPSIS

Salicylhydrazide forms blue fluorescent derivatives with all potentially Schiff‐reactive, periodate‐oxidized mucosubstances in sections of fixed tissue. The derivatives formed from sulpho‐ and sialomucins usually emit an intense fluorescence. The fluorescence emitted by neutral mucosubstance derivatives is less intense. Aluminium salts enhance the fluorescence emitted by these derivatives, but zinc salts tend to quench it.

Salicylhydrazide forms stable fluorescent products only with aldehydes, and is therefore highly specific. Moreover, its aldehyde hydrazones are unique among aldehyde acid arylhydrazones in that only they can be converted into formazans.

Cytoplasmic proteins emit a red or purple fluorescence after being treated with a solution containing a solochrome black dye and an aluminium salt. This fluorescence enables the blue fluorescence emitted by periodate‐oxidized mucosubstance salicylhydrazones to be seen more clearly.
Association of an inter‐arm systolic blood pressure difference with all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality: A meta‐analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Li Min , Fan Fangfang , Qiu Lin , Ma Wei , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2023

This meta‐analysis evaluated the potential association of a simultaneously measured inter‐arm systolic blood pressure difference (IASBPD) and all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality. The Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed databases were searched through to April 14, 2023 for relevant literature. The outcomes were the associations of IASBPD with all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality. Finally, 10 cohort studies that included 15 320 individuals were included. An IASBPD of ≥15 mm Hg was associated with increased all‐cause mortality (pooled hazard ratio [HR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.61) but an IASBPD of ≥10 mm Hg was not (pooled HR 1.28, 95% CI 0.89–1.85). The pooled HR for cardiovascular mortality was 1.88 (95% CI 1.31–2.71) for an IASBPD of ≥10 mm Hg and 1.93 (95% CI 1.24–2.99) for an IASBPD of ≥15 mm Hg. Subgroup analysis showed that younger patients (HR 9.03, 95% CI 2.00–40.82, p = .004) with an IASBPD ≥15 mm Hg were at higher risk of cardiovascular mortality than older patients (HR 1.67, 95% CI 1.06–2.64, p = .03); the difference between groups was statistically significant (p = .04). In conclusions, our findings show that a simultaneously measured IASBPD ≥15 mm Hg predicts increased all‐cause mortality and an IASBPD of ≥15 mm Hg or ≥10 mm Hg predicts increased cardiovascular mortality. An IASBPD ≥15 mm Hg appears to be more correlated with cardiovascular mortality in younger patients than in older patients.
Gene deletion of the PACAP/VIP receptor, VPAC2R, alters glycemic responses during metabolic and psychogenic stress in adult female mice
Authors: Kozlova Elena V. , Bishay Anthony E. , Denys Maximilian E. , Chinthirla Bhuvaneswari D. , Valdez Matthew C. , Spurgin Kurt A. , Krum Julia M. , Basappa Karthik R. , Currás‐Collazo Margarita C.
Published: November 2023

Pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP) and the homologous peptide, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), participate in glucose homeostasis using insulinotropic and counterregulatory processes. The role of VIP receptor 2 (VPAC2R) in these opposing actions needs further characterization. In this study, we examined the participation of VPAC2R on basal glycemia, fasted levels of glucoregulatory hormones and on glycemia responses during metabolic and psychogenic stress using gene‐deleted (Vipr2−/−) female mice. The mean basal glycemia was significantly greater in Vipr2−/− in the fed state and after an 8‐h overnight fast as compared to wild‐type (WT) mice. Insulin tolerance testing following a 5‐h fast (morning fast, 0.38 U/kg insulin) indicated no effect of genotype. However, during a more intense metabolic challenge (8 h, ON fast, 0.25 U/kg insulin), Vipr2−/− females displayed significantly impaired insulin hypoglycemia. During immobilization stress, the hyperglycemic response and plasma epinephrine levels were significantly elevated above basal in Vipr2−/−, but not WT mice, in spite of similar stress levels of plasma corticosterone. Together, these results implicate participation of VPAC2R in upregulated counterregulatory processes influenced by enhanced sympathoexcitation. Moreover, the suppression of plasma GLP‐1 levels in Vipr2−/− mice may have removed the inhibition on hepatic glucose production and the promotion of glucose disposal by GLP‐1. qPCR analysis indicated deregulation of central gene markers of PACAP/VIP signaling in Vipr2−/−, upregulated medulla tyrosine hydroxylase (Th) and downregulated hypothalamic Vip transcripts. These results demonstrate a physiological role for VPAC2R in glucose metabolism, especially during insulin challenge and psychogenic stress, likely involving the participation of sympathoadrenal activity and/or metabolic hormones.
Evaluation of one versus two glaze firings on the color stability and mechanical properties of an extrinsically characterized monolithic CAD‐CAM lithium disilicate glass ceramic
Authors: Kelma Palacio Gomes Magalhães Aghata , Barros Moreira Gabriela , Loíky Sampaio de Souza Matheus , Whitehurst Ary Leitão Andrea , Fernandes Peixoto Raniel , Pontes Cássio , Matthes de Freitas Pontes Karina
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of 1 versus 2 glaze firings on the color and mechanical properties of an extrinsically characterized lithium disilicate ceramic after thermal cycling, brushing, or both.

Materials and Methods

Eighty specimens were divided into 2 groups: 1 glaze firing (GL1) and 2 glaze firings (GL2). Each group was subdivided into 4 groups (n = 10), according to the experimental conditions: thermal‐cycling, brushing, thermal‐cycling + brushing, and immersion in distilled water (control). Color variation, surface roughness, and Vickers microhardness were analyzed before each designated experiment and after the simulated periods of 2.5, 5, and 10 years. Three‐way mixed ANOVA was used for all outcomes, followed by 1‐way ANOVA, repeated measures 1‐way ANOVA, Bonferroni post hoc test, and t‐test to check for statistical differences (α = 0.05).

Results

Thermal cycling generated greater color changes in the GL1 group at 2.5 and 5 years (p < 0.001; p = 0.013). Brushing generated color changes in GL1 at 5 years (p = 0.003) and in GL2 at 10 years (p = 0.017). Regarding surface roughness, the GL1 group suffered alterations in thermal cycling + brushing at 5 years. In the control group, the GL1 group exhibited higher roughness values than GL2 (p < 0.05). Most of the groups experienced an increase in microhardness at 2.5 years (p < 0.05). In the GL1 group, thermal‐cycling increased the microhardness at 5 years (p = 0.006); at 5 and 10 years, the GL1 group had a higher microhardness than the GL2 in thermal‐cycling + brushing (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Ceramics with 1 glaze firing showed greater color, roughness, and microhardness changes compared to those submitted to 2 firings.
The impact of Resolvin E1 on bone regeneration in critical‐sized calvarial defects of rat model—A gene expression and micro‐CT analysis
Authors: Alrumaih Sara , Alshibani Nouf , Alssum Lamees , Alshehri Fahad A. , AlMayrifi Mohammed A. , AlMayouf Mohammed , Alrahlah Ali , Bautista Leonel S. J.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate, in vivo, the effect of local application of Resolvin E1 (RvE1) on the bone regeneration of critical‐size defects (CSDs) in Wistar rats utilizing gene expression and micro‐computed tomographic (micro‐CT) analysis.

Background

The inflammation‐resolving actions of RvE1 are well established. The molecular mechanism of its bone‐regenerative actions has been of significant interest in recent years; however, there is limited information regarding the same.

Materials and Methods

Thirty Wistar rats with a 5 mm induced critical‐size calvarial defect were randomly allocated into four groups: no treatment/negative control (n = 5), treatment using bovine bone grafts/positive control (n = 5), treatment using local delivery of RvE1 (n = 11) and treatment using RvE1 mixed with bovine bone graft (n = 9). After 4 weeks, RNA isolation, complementary DNA synthesis and real‐time polymerase chain reaction were used for genetic expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OCN) and osteopontin (OPN). The rats were sacrificed after 12 weeks and micro‐CT imaging was performed to analyse the characteristics of the newly formed bone (NFB). The data were analysed using ANOVA and the least significant difference tests (α ≤ .05).

Results

The RvE1 + bovine graft group had statistically highest mean NFB (20.75 ± 2.67 mm3) compared to other groups (p < .001). Similarly, RvE1 + bovine graft group also demonstrated statistically highest mean genetic expression of ALP (31.71 ± 2.97; p = .008) and OPN (34.78 ± 3.62; p < .001) compared to negative control and RvE1 groups.

Conclusion

Resolvin E1 with adjunct bovine bone graft demonstrated an enhanced bone regeneration compared to RvE1 or bovine graft alone in the calvarial defect of Wistar rats.
Dietary supplements, guideline alignment and biochemical nutrient status in pregnancy: Findings from the Queensland Family Cohort pilot study
Authors: Gallo Linda A. , Steane Sarah E. , Young Sophia L. , de Jersey Susan , Schoenaker Danielle A. J. M. , Borg Danielle J. , Lockett Jack , Collins Clare E. , Perkins Anthony V. , Kumar Sailesh , Clifton Vicki L. , Wilkinson Shelley A.
Published: November 2023

In high‐income nations, multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplementation during pregnancy is a common practice. We aimed to describe maternal characteristics associated with supplement use and daily dose of supplemental nutrients consumed in pregnancy, and whether guideline alignment and nutrient status are related to supplement use. The Queensland Family Cohort is a prospective, Australian observational longitudinal study. Maternal characteristics, nutrient intake from food and supplements, and biochemical nutrient status were assessed in the second trimester (n = 127). Supplement use was reported by 89% of participants, of whom 91% reported taking an MMN supplement. Participants who received private obstetric care, had private health insurance and had greater alignment to meat/vegetarian alternatives recommendations were more likely to report MMN supplement use. Private obstetric care and general practitioner shared care were associated with higher daily dose of supplemental nutrients consumed compared with midwifery group practice. There was high reliance on supplements to meet nutrient reference values for folate, iodine and iron, but only plasma folate concentrations were higher in MMN supplement versus nonsupplement users. Exceeding the upper level of intake for folic acid and iron was more likely among combined MMN and individual supplement/s users, and associated with higher plasma concentrations of the respective nutrients. Given the low alignment with food group recommendations and potential risks associated with high MMN supplement use, whole food diets should be emphasized. This study confirms the need to define effective strategies for optimizing nutrient intake in pregnancy, especially among those most vulnerable where MMN supplement use may be appropriate.
The influence of Acetobacter pomorum bacteria on the developmental progression of Drosophila suzukii via gluconic acid secretion
Authors: Bing Xiao‐Li , Liang Zi‐Jian , Tian Jia , Gong Xue , Huang Shao‐Qiu , Chen Jie , Hong Xiao‐Yue
Published: November 2023

Insects are rich in various microorganisms, which play diverse roles in affecting host biology. Although most Drosophila species prefer rotten fruits, the agricultural pest Drosophila suzukii attacks ripening fruits before they are harvested. We have reported that the microbiota has positive and negative impacts on the agricultural pest D. suzukii on nutrient‐poor and ‐rich diets, respectively. On nutrient‐poor diets, microbes provide protein to facilitate larval development. But how they impede D. suzukii development on nutrient‐rich diets is unknown. Here we report that Acetobacter pomorum (Apo), a commensal bacterium in many Drosophila species and rotting fruit, has several detrimental effects in D. suzukii. Feeding D. suzukii larvae nutrient‐rich diets containing live Apo significantly delayed larval development and reduced the body weight of emerged adults. Apo induced larval immune responses and downregulated genes of digestion and juvenile hormone metabolism. Knockdown of these genes in germ‐free larvae reproduced Apo‐like weakened phenotypes. Apo was confirmed to secrete substantial amounts of gluconic acid. Adding gluconic acid to the D. suzukii larval diet hindered larval growth and decreased adult body weight. Moreover, the dose of gluconic acid that adversely affected D. suzukii did not negatively affect Drosophila melanogaster, suggesting that D. suzukii is less tolerant to acid than D. melanogaster. Taken together, these findings indicate that D. suzukii is negatively affected by gluconic acid, which may explain why it prefers ripening fruit over Apo‐rich rotting fruit. These results show an insect's tolerance to microbes can influence its ecological niche.
Non‐pharmacologic interventions for management of radiation‐induced dry mouth: A systematic review
Authors: Khamdi Sukontha , Matangkasombut Oranart , Lam‐Ubol Aroonwan
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Radiation‐induced dry mouth negatively impacts patients' oral health and quality of life. Currently, evidence‐based recommendation for non‐pharmacologic interventions is still lacking.

This study aimed to systematically review clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of non‐pharmacologic interventions in cancer patients with radiation‐induced dry mouth.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials from 2000 were searched from 4 databases, including MEDLINE, Cochrane, Embase via OVID, and SCOPUS, up to December 16th, 2022 (PROSPERO registration CRD42022378405). The risk of bias was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool.

Results

Twenty‐one studies were included: 11 on artificial saliva, 4 on electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), 2 on acupuncture, and one study each on low‐level laser therapy, stem cells, chewing gum, and probiotics. Overall bias was low, medium, and high in 33%, 48%, and 19% of the studies, respectively. Certain artificial saliva products and TENS were shown to improve dry mouth symptoms and salivary flow rate (SFR). One study showed that stem cell transplantation significantly increased SFR.

Conclusions

The evidence suggested that certain artificial saliva products and TENS are promising management. However, the evidence was still limited due to heterogeneity of interventions and outcome measurements. Thus, future studies using standard measurements and long‐term follow‐up are warranted.
Prevalence and the impact of hepatitis E infection in pediatric liver transplanted recipients with hepatitis in Thailand
Authors: Sintusek Palittiya , Khunsri Siriporn , Chansaenroj Jira , Thongmee Thanunrat , Poovorawan Yong
Published: November 2023

Background

The hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection typically causes acute and self‐limiting hepatitis. However, chronic infection can occur in immunocompromised hosts. This study determined the prevalence and impact of HEV infection in liver transplanted (LT) children who had transaminitis.

Methods

The demographic data, anti‐HEV IgM/IgG, serum/stool HEV RNA, and management for LT children with acute or persistent transaminitis from 2003 to 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. HEV serology was tested by ELISA, and HEV RNA was detected by semi‐nested PCR.

Results

Seventy‐two children with LT with persistent transaminitis with a median age of 4.41 (1.32, 9.14) years (55.6% female) and one with acute hepatitis were investigated for HEV infection. Anti‐HEV IgM, anti‐HEV IgG, serum, or stool HEV RNA was investigated in 95.8% (N = 69), 93.1% (N = 67), 43.1% (N = 31), and 37.5% (N = 27) of patients, respectively. The prevalence of HEV infection was 37.5% (N = 27). There was no significant difference in characteristics between the HEV‐infected and HEV‐non‐infected patients. Moreover, 22.2% (N = 16) and 15.3% (N = 11) of patients had past HEV infection and HEV‐related acute or chronic infection, respectively. Most of the patients had primary treatment as the presumed graft rejection without improvement. In two patients, detectable HEV RNA in serum turned undetectable in approximately 2 weeks and 2 months, and liver enzyme levels normalized after reducing immunosuppressive therapy.

Conclusions

The prevalence of HEV infection among pediatric LT recipients with hepatitis was high. Chronic HEV infection was evidenced in two patients. Investigations of HEV infection in pediatric LT recipients with persistent transaminitis should guide proper management.
Development of a molecular diagnostic to discriminate between Fomitiporia species and advancements in detection of the main grapevine decline‐related pathogens in propagating material and mature vines
Authors: Christopoulou Marilena , Tsoukas Christos , Gkizi Danai , Triantafyllopoulou Alexandra , Tzima Aliki K. , Paplomatas Epaminondas J.
Published: November 2023

A comprehensive study was conducted on the prevalence of grapevine trunk diseases in Greece, focusing specifically on contamination of grapevine propagation material by Phaeomoniella chlamydospora and black foot disease‐related species. Additionally, detection of esca pathogen Fomitiporia mediterranea, causing white rot in grapevine and other woody hosts, was assessed using a new PCR‐based assay that distinguishes F. mediterranea from F. punctata. Development of a nested PCR assay, combined with a cost‐effective DNA extraction protocol, revealed a high percentage of infection by P. chlamydospora (51%) and Ilyonectria species associated with black foot disease (28%) in different types of grapevine propagation material (dormant cuttings, field‐rooted benchgrafts and green‐growing plants). Interestingly, black foot disease‐related pathogens were more prevalent in nursery plants grown in the field for 6 months (57%) than in other types of propagation material and compared with P. chlamydospora (43%), indicating increased infection of propagation material during growth in the nursery field. The cost‐effective molecular method developed in this study could be used in mass inspections of propagation material for phytosanitary purposes. Finally, using primers specific for F. mediterranea and F. puncata developed in this study, combined with the universal ITS4 primer, a collection of Fomitiporia isolates from mature grapevine and other woody hosts from Greece and Italy (southern Europe) were characterized as F. mediterranea, whereas German and Swedish isolates from forest plants (central Europe) were classified as F. punctata. The developed primers can discriminate between the two Fomitiporia species, which are indistinguishable based on culture and morphological characteristics alone.
Hydrochemical mixing‐zones trigger dolomite formation in an alkaline lake
Authors: McCormack Jeremy , Baldermann Andre , Bontognali Tomaso R. R. , Wolf Annabel , Kwiecien Ola
Published: November 2023

Dolomite is globally present in past geological records, but rare in modern environments. The mechanisms favouring its precipitation under ambient conditions remain highly debated. This study investigates sediments, containing high concentrations of early diagenetic calcian dolomite, from alkaline Lake Van (Republic of Türkiye, formally Turkey) dating back to 252 ka bp. Powder X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy evidence suggests that dolomite formation is associated with prior dissolution of aragonite and low‐Mg calcite and a subsequent co‐precipitation with, and/or partial transformation of, high‐Mg calcite into dolomite. The infrequent presence of diatom frustules encapsulated by dolomite suggests, for Lake Van, unusually low pore‐water pH at the time of dolomite formation. Conditions facilitating the preservation of silica, as well as dissolution and subsequent reprecipitation of carbonate phases, could result from periodic reventilations of Lake Van's deep water and an advection of pore fluids with contrasting redox potential and chemical concentration gradients. This continental analogue of the coastal ‘mixing‐zone’ dolomitization model argues that not overcoming a single specific hydrochemical threshold, but highly dynamic and fluctuating conditions trigger dolomite formation in Lake Van.
Co‐learning and co‐teaching in a newly introduced research learning community
Authors: Claessen Roy J. M. , van Ede Annelies E. , van Gils Merel , Reuzel Rob P. B. , van Woezik Tamara E. T. , van Gurp Petra J. M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Research clerkships are usually designed as individual learning projects focusing on research skills training, such as research design, data analysis and reporting. When the COVID‐19 pandemic triggered an urgent need for digital education, we redesigned a research clerkship with the challenging aim to maintain original quality for more students than usual with limited teaching staff.

Approach

We introduced the concept of a research learning community (RLC) with co‐teaching and co‐learning to a group of 14 students and seven teaching faculty using digital platforms. Small groups of students participated in the RLC, which was supervised weekly by the teachers. Research experts were continuously involved and led workshops.

Evaluation

Using a qualitative design, we analysed experiences from the perspectives of students and faculty. We performed an inductive thematic content analysis of three focus group interviews and used 14 student reports for triangulation. The results indicate that apart from developing research skills, students valued peer assistance, attention to uncertainty and learning beyond individual research projects. The teachers/research experts reported that co‐teaching and co‐learning had contributed to their professional development. In terms of organisation, students and faculty recognised that the RLC model allowed for interdisciplinary learning, facilitated by a digital platform.

Implications

To develop students' research skills, embedding a clerkship in an RLC is an attractive alternative to individual research clerkships. The obligatory learning goals are met. Co‐learning and co‐teaching foster faculty's and students' professional development. When translating to other curricula, we recommend stating common goals in addition to individual objectives.
Cone‐beam computed tomography produces images of numerically comparable diagnostic quality for bone and inferior quality for soft tissues compared with fan‐beam computed tomography in cadaveric equine metacarpophalangeal joints
Authors: Stewart Holly L. , Siewerdsen Jeffrey H. , Selberg Kurt T. , Bills Kathryn W. , Kawcak Christopher E.
Published: November 2023

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an emerging modality for imaging of the equine patient. The objective of this prospective, descriptive, exploratory study was to assess visualization tasks using CBCT compared with conventional fan‐beam CT (FBCT) for imaging of the metacarpophalangeal joint in equine cadavers. Satisfaction scores were numerically excellent with both CBCT and FBCT for bone evaluation, and FBCT was numerically superior for soft tissue evaluation. Preference tests indicated FBCT was numerically superior for soft tissue evaluation, while preference test scoring for bone was observer‐dependent. Findings from this study can be used as background for future studies evaluating CBCT image quality in live horses.
Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii in pigs in Haryana, India
Authors: Moudgil Pallavi , Pandita Sakshi , Kumar Ramesh , Khasa Vipin , Dash Spandan Shashwat , Bangar Yogesh C. , Jindal Naresh
Published: November 2023

Aims

Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common food‐borne parasitic zoonosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite. A cross‐sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and associated risk factors in pigs in Haryana, India.

Methods and Results

Serum samples were collected from 429 pigs from three agroclimatic zones (I–III) of Haryana and analysed for the presence of antibodies against T. gondii using a commercial indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anti‐T. gondii antibodies were detected in 106 animals (24.7%), with the highest seropositivity in zone II (31.3%) followed by zone III (24.4%) and zone I (18.3%). Risk factors associated with higher seropositivity in pigs were farm size (higher in large‐sized farms), age (higher in pigs >1 year of age), sex (higher in males), type of feeding (higher in combination of homemade and hotel waste) and housing (higher in free‐ranging pigs).

Conclusions

The findings of the study testify to the exposure of pigs (of all agro‐climatic zones) to T. gondii. Hence, the observations are of significant medical and veterinary importance for devising and implementing control measures to check the dissemination of toxoplasmosis to pigs and eventually to humans.
The Application of Fluidic Sealing in Shrouded Gas Turbine Blades
Authors: Wasilczuk Filip , Flaszyński Paweł , Doerffer Piotr , Marugi Krzysztof , Borzęcki Tomasz
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a study conducted on a new gas turbine designed to limit leakage in the labyrinth seal. The slots in the fin are used to generate a bypass flow, which obstructs the flow in the gap above the fin. The method was tested numerically and experimentally beforehand using a simplified model without rotation or blade passages. In this paper, the validation of the method using a model of a turbine stage is shown. Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations using two turbulence models—Spalart–Allmaras (SA) and k-ω EARSM—were conducted. Comparisons of leakage flow and stage efficiency for reference and fluidic sealing configurations are presented. Fluidic sealing configuration is effective and reduces the leakage flow by 13–18.5% (depending on the turbulence model). The analysis of the flow structure in the seal region revealed that the use of fluidic sealing resulted in significant circumferential flow anisotropy.