bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychogenic non‐epileptic (functional) seizures in adults with intellectual disability and epilepsy: A matched case–control study
Authors: Kloosterman Iris E. M. , Haenen Alexandra I. , Poortvliet‐Koedam Esther L. G. E. , Lazeron Richard H. C. , Schelhaas Helenius J. , van Ool Jans S.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe the characteristics of psychogenic non‐epileptic (functional) seizures (PNES) in adults with epilepsy and intellectual disability (ID) and to establish differences and risk factors regarding psychosocial functioning between individuals with and without PNES.

Methods

Adults with ID and epilepsy living in epilepsy care facilities in The Netherlands were screened for PNES by a neurologist. A control group consisting of people with epilepsy and ID, without PNES, was matched according to age, sex, and level of ID. Objective data were retrieved retrospectively from clinical notes of the resident. Standardized questionnaires and tests, adjusted for people with ID, were obtained from participants and their nursing staff. Differences were analyzed using paired t tests, Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests, or McNemar's tests, appropriate for matched case–control studies. Conditional logistic regression identified PNES risk factors.

Results

Five hundred forty individuals were screened, of which 42 had PNES (point prevalence 7.8%). In total, 35 cases and 35 controls gave consent. Proxy reports indicated that PNES impacted daily life in 79% by adjusting the individual's schedule, and caused minor injuries in one‐third. Those with PNES were mainly female (69%); had a mild (46%) or moderate (37%) level of ID; showed more symptoms of depression (p = .024), anxiety (p = .030), self‐injurious behavior (p = .015); and experienced more negative life events (p < .001). Clinically relevant predictors of PNES were the number of negative life events (odds ratio [OR] 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–2.53) and self‐injurious behaviors (OR 5.27, 95% CI .97–28.81).

Significance

Previously, PNES in individuals with ID and epilepsy were described mainly as a reinforced behavioral pattern, due to limited associations with psychiatric disorders. Our results demonstrate that this population does show individual psychosocial vulnerabilities when measured with instruments adjusted for this population, as indicated by proxy reports from daily caregivers. Viewing PNES as an involuntary response, especially for stress‐prone individuals with ID, could reduce stigma and improve treatment.
Assessing genotype–environment interactions in Atlantic salmon reared in freshwater loch and recirculating systems
Authors: Tollervey Mette J. , Bekaert Michaël , González Agustín Barría , Agha Saif , Houston Ross D. , Doeschl‐Wilson Andrea , Norris Ashie , Migaud Herve , Gutierrez Alejandro P.
Published: August 2024

The interest in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) is growing due to their benefits such as increased productivity, better control over animal care, reduced environmental effects, and less water consumption. However, in some regions of the world, traditional aquaculture methods remain prevalent, and selective breeding has often been designed for performance within these systems. Therefore, it is important to evaluate how current fish populations fare in RAS to guide future breeding choices. In a commercial setting, we explore the genetic structure of growth characteristics, measure genotype–environment interactions (GxE) in salmon smolts, and examine genetic markers related to growth in freshwater lochs and RAS. Young salmon were raised together until they reached the parr stage, after which they were divided equally between freshwater net‐pens and RAS. After an 8‐week period, we sampled fish from each environment and genotyped them. Our findings revealed that fish reared in RAS were generally smaller in weight and length but exhibited a higher condition factor and uniformity. We found a notably smaller component of unexplained variance in the RAS, leading to higher heritability estimates. We observed a low GxE effect for length and condition factor, but significant re‐ranking for whole‐body weight, as well as noticeable differences in trait associations across environments. Specifically, a segment of chromosome 22 was found to be linked with the condition factor in the RAS population only. Results suggests that if the use of RAS continues to expand, the efficiency of existing commercial populations may not reach its full potential unless breeding programs specific to RAS are implemented.
ResiSC: A system for building resilient smart city communication networks
Authors: Alenazi Mohammed J. F.
Published: August 2024

Smart city networks are critical for delivering essential services such as healthcare, education, and business operations. However, these networks are highly susceptible to a range of threats, including natural disasters and intentional cyberattacks, which can severely disrupt their functionality. To address these vulnerabilities, we present the resilient smart city (ResiSC) system, designed to enhance the resilience of smart city communication networks through a topological design approach. Our system employs a graph‐theoretic algorithm to determine the optimal network topology for a given set of nodes, aiming to maximize connectivity while minimizing link provisioning costs. We introduce two novel connectivity measurements, All Nodes Reachability (ANR) and Sum of All Nodes Reachability (SANR), to evaluate network resilience. We applied our approach to data from two public universities of different sizes, simulating various attack scenarios to assess the robustness of the resulting network topologies. Evaluation results indicate that our solution improves network resilience against targeted attacks by 38% compared to baseline methods such as k‐nearest neighbours (k‐NN) graphs, while also reducing the number of additional links and their associated costs. Results also indicate that our proposed solution outperforms baseline methods like k‐NN in terms of network resilience against targeted attacks by 41%. This work provides a practical framework for developing robust smart city networks capable of withstanding diverse threats.
Pathways for integrating historical information into fisheries decision‐making
Authors: McClenachan Loren , Cope Jason , Martínez‐Candelas Ilse , Nowlis Joshua , Rubio‐Cisneros Nadia T. , Tewfik Alexander , Cramer Katie L.
Published: August 2024

Historical information has provided key insights into long‐term ecological change to marine species and ecosystems, with value to fisheries. Yet, pathways to integrate these diverse data sources into fisheries decision‐making have not been clear. Here, we identify an array of biological, ecological, and social information suitable for contemporary science‐based decision‐making, derived from local ecological knowledge, historical archives, archaeological middens and palaeoecological material. We outline two broad pathways to integrate these historical data into fisheries decision‐making, demonstrating that data‐driven use of historical information is relevant across a range of management contexts. First, historical information can inform fisheries assessments that range from simple to complex, affecting indicators of stock status. Second, it can inform estimates of biological potential and social preference, affecting the choice of fisheries reference points. Using the Caribbean Sea as an example, we illustrate these ideas with case studies representing diverse species and historical data types. Integrating historical data can improve indicators of the current state of fish populations and result in management decisions based on a more complete understanding of a potential range of variation, avoiding shifted baselines. The urgency of this work is underscored by accelerating environmental changes and the rapid loss of invaluable historical information sources. By illuminating pathways, our goal is to increase the accessibility of these types of information and to underscore that scientists, managers, and resource users have roles to play in identifying and integrating relevant long‐term data at various spatial and temporal scales to sustainably manage marine fisheries.
Global meta‐analysis of demersal fishing impacts on organic carbon and associated biogeochemistry
Authors: Tiano Justin , De Borger Emil , Paradis Sarah , Bradshaw Clare , Morys Claudia , Pusceddu Antonio , Ennas Claudia , Soetaert Karline , Puig Pere , Masqué Pere , Sciberras Marija
Published: August 2024

The potential threat of fisheries on seabed carbon is a topic of growing concern, yet existing literature presents inconsistencies leaving experts divided on the topic. We conducted a global meta‐analysis to synthesize the current knowledge and quantify how demersal fishing impacts various biogeochemical properties. Direct impact studies revealed overall reductions in chlorophyll‐a (Chl‐a, 17%), phaeopigments (24%), and proteins (32%). Effects on these reactive compounds were more pronounced on surface sediment (0–2 cm), where the impact on total organic carbon (TOC) also became significant, demonstrating the effect of gear penetration, and highlighting that sampling strategies combining sediment layers can mask observed effects. Current velocity and primary productivity significantly influenced the direction and magnitude of fishing impacts. Trawling‐induced subsurface reductions of TOC in low‐energy habitats may affect carbon sequestration due to the preferential removal of semi‐reactive carbon. Intriguingly, fishing intensity gradient studies showed an average increase in TOC in chronically fished areas, possibly reflecting fishing preferences for meso‐eutrophic grounds. We estimate a ~300‐day recovery period post‐fishing for Chl‐a, though values for other parameters are less certain. Limited data on seasonality, gear types, and an under‐representation of studies in tropical and deep‐sea areas pose challenges to quantifying global scale geochemical impacts of demersal fisheries. Knowledge gaps persist in understanding the fate of disturbed organic matter including its mineralization, transport, and sequestration. Nonetheless, our insights and estimates provide foundational knowledge that can contribute to science‐based approaches for spatial fisheries management while preserving natural carbon dynamics on the seabed.
Balancing boat‐electrofishing sampling effort against costs for nearshore fish communities in the Toronto waterfront, Lake Ontario
Authors: Theis Sebastian , Wallace Angela , Graham Brian , Coey Brynn , Cartwright Lyndsay , Poesch Mark , Portiss Rick , Ruppert Jonathan L. W.
Published: August 2024

To enhance management of aquatic systems, long‐term monitoring programs are crucial. However, managers often lack sufficient guidance in decision‐making. In this study, we analyzed nearshore electrofishing data from Lake Ontario spanning 18 years and over 100,000 caught fish to assess sampling designs for various coastal habitats. Using simulation, we evaluated precision of catch per unit effort (CPUE) for all species, piscivores, and specialist species, at different levels of electrofishing sampling effort. For overall CPUE in any habitat type, increased precision declined with additional electrofishing runs, particularly after reaching 30–40 runs. Adjustments in sampling effort, such as adding 10 runs per year for open‐coast sites, increased precision of overall CPUE by 10%. Adding 8 runs per year for wetlands increased precision of specialist‐species CPUE by 10%. However, additional runs in embayments did not increase precision for all species, piscivores, or specialist species. Our findings underscore the importance of considering community composition and abundance when evaluating CPUE precision and illustrates a flexible approach to optimize sampling effort in aquatic monitoring programs.
Soil carbon stocks in sugarcane cultivation: An evidence synthesis associated with land use and management practices
Authors: Pinheiro Junior Carlos Roberto , Carvalho João Luís Nunes , Canisares Lucas Pecci , Cerri Carlos Eduardo Pellegrino , Cherubin Maurício Roberto
Published: August 2024

Biofuels are essential to ensure the energy transition and mitigating of climate change. However, understanding the impact of land use change (LUC) and management practices on soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks is fundamental to ensuring well‐founded policymaking and assessing the sector's carbon footprint. Here, we conducted a meta‐analysis (511 pairwise observations) to obtain Brazil's SOC stock change factors (SOCscf) for LUC and management practices in sugarcane fields. Our results showed that converting native vegetation to sugarcane reduced the SOC stock in all assessed periods. The conversion from annual crops to sugarcane showed a reduction in SOC stock in the first 10 years but with a recovery over time. The conversion of pasture to sugarcane reduced the SOC stock only in the 10–20‐year period and had a neutral effect in other periods evaluated. However, our dataset showed high variability in SOCscf, with many observations indicating an increase in SOC stock, which is related to degraded pastures. We observed that the SOC accumulation rate for each ton of sugarcane straw was affected by the interaction between soil texture and precipitation. Regarding straw management, a low removal rate (< 34%) did not affect the SOC stock, while moderate (34%–66%) and high (> 66%) removal resulted in losses of 5.0% (SOCscf 0.950) and 9.9% (SOCscf 0.901), respectively. Our results also showed that reduced tillage and vinasse application increased SOC stocks by 24.0% (SOCscf 1.24) and 10.0% (SOCscf 1.10) respectively, proving to be good strategies to support C sequestration in sugarcane fields. Finally, we highlight that our results can contribute to the improvement of public policies and also be used in future life cycle assessment (LCA) and modeling studies, as they provide robust data to establishing regional SOCscf induced by LUC and management practices, enhancing the reliability of the C footprint assessment of biofuel production.
Female‐specific mechanisms of meiotic initiation and progression in mammalian oocyte development
Authors: Shimada Ryuki , Ishiguro Kei‐ichiro
Published: August 2024

Meiosis is regulated in sexually dimorphic manners in mammals. In females, the commitment to and entry into meiosis are coordinated with the developmental program of oocytes. Female germ cells initiate meiosis within a short time window during the fetal period and then undergo meiotic arrest until puberty. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying the orchestration of oocyte development and meiosis to maximize the reproductive lifespan of mammalian females remain largely elusive. While meiotic initiation is regulated by a sexually common mechanism, where meiosis initiator and Stimulated by Retinoic Acid Gene 8 (STRA8) activate the meiotic genes, the female‐specific mode of meiotic initiation is mediated by the interaction between retinoblastoma (RB) and STRA8. This review highlights the female‐specific mechanisms of meiotic initiation and meiotic prophase progression in the context of oocyte development. Furthermore, the downstream pathway of the RB‐STRA8 interaction that may regulate meiotic arrest will be discussed in the context of oocyte development, highlighting a potential genetic link between the female‐specific mode of meiotic entry and meiotic arrest.
An allometric approach to seasonal changes in intake rates of migratory shorebirds in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea‐Bissau
Authors: Coelho Ana P. , Rocha Afonso D. , de Barros Aissa R. , Piersma Theunis , Alves José A.
Published: August 2024

Shorebirds migrating along the East Atlantic Flyway must travel long distances from their breeding sites in arctic and subarctic regions to wintering areas in Europe and Africa. Selecting a winter location is an important decision, as it can have both immediate and future consequences. Shorebirds must ensure they have enough resources to fulfil their energetic requirements during winter, as well as during the fuelling phase, when they must accumulate fat stores for the return migration. Migratory shorebirds are declining worldwide, with several populations wintering in tropical Africa facing steep declines, particularly when compared with their conspecifics wintering in temperate Europe. However, one of the most important wintering sites in Africa remains relatively unstudied, the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea‐Bissau. In this study, we quantify intake rates of eight migratory shorebird species wintering in the Bijagós and explore how these vary throughout their stay in the archipelago. Given the uncertainties associated with measurements of field intake rates, an allometric validation of our approach confirmed a slope comparable to that predicted by theory and verified in many situations. Contrary to our expectations, we found no evidence for an increase in intake rates in the fuelling period; in fact, decreases were noticeable in a few species over the non‐breeding season. The allometric relationship across species also confirmed the seasonally decreasing daily energetic intakes, particularly by smaller species. The comparison between the intake rates in the Bijagós and those reported in other wintering sites along the flyway highlights the particularly low values for Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula, Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea and Bar‐tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica. Limitations in intake rates and the associated energetic intake suggest that some species may be energetically constrained in the Bijagós, particularly during fuelling.
Context‐dependent effects of geographic, climate and land cover factors on hemipteran assemblages in different ecoregions of China
Authors: Mao Jiaping , Jiang Xiaoming , Tang Wenjia , Heino Jani , Alahuhta Janne , Huang Xiaolei
Published: August 2024

Understanding variation in assemblage composition (i.e., beta diversity) along geographic and environmental gradients is a central topic in biogeography and ecology.

We compared relationships between hemipteran beta diversity (overall dissimilarity: βtotal, Sorensen dissimilarity; turnover component: βsim, the replacement of species between assemblages; nestedness‐resultant component: βsne, the nested difference in richness between assemblages) and geographic, climatic and land cover distances among four ecoregions (Northeast Ecoregion; Northern Ecoregion; Tibet Ecoregion; Southern Ecoregion) across China.

The hemipteran assemblage composition differed markedly among ecoregions. In general, βtotal and βsim both significantly increased with increasing geographic, climatic and land cover distances.

Intercepts and slopes of dissimilarity‐distance relationships all varied significantly among different ecoregions, suggesting different levels of within‐ecoregion assemblage heterogeneity and change rate in assemblage composition. Moreover, the slopes of βtotal and βsim were highest in Northeast Ecoregion but lowest in Northern Ecoregion, exhibiting latitudinal and longitudinal dissimilarity pattern.

According to variation partitioning analysis, although the overall explained variance was relatively low, spatial variables explained a much greater proportion of variance compared to climate and land cover variables.

To conclude, our results showed significant regional differences in assemblage composition and biodiversity among ecoregions. Both dispersal‐related and niche‐related processes affect hemipteran assemblage structure, while the low overall explained variance indicates that high dissimilarity in hemipteran composition is affected by multiple factors and processes that remained undetected in this study.

Our results may be relevant for wider insect groups because hemipterans constitute a highly diverse group in terms of phylogenetic origins and functional significance.
Fermented tea leave extract against oxidative stress and ageing of skin in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Wang Gai‐xiang , Fei Wei‐cheng , Zhi Lei‐lei , Bai Xue‐dong , You Bing
Published: August 2024

Objective

The objective is to develop a natural and stable anti‐oxidative stress and anti‐ageing ingredient. In this study, we evaluated the changes in white tea leaves fermented with Eurotium cristatum PLT‐PE and Saccharomyces boulardii PLT‐HZ and their efficacy against skin oxidative stress.

Methods

We employed untargeted metabolomics technology to analyse the differential metabolites between tea extract (TE) and fermented tea extract (FTE). In vitro, using H2O2‐induced HaCaT cells, we evaluated cell vitality, ROS, and inflammatory factors (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6). Additionally, we verified the effects on the extracellular matrix and nuclear DNA using fibroblasts or reconstructed skin models. We measured skin hydration, elasticity, wrinkle area, wrinkle area ratio, erythema area, and erythema area ratio in volunteers after using an emulsion containing 3% FTE for 28 and 56 days.

Results

Targeted metabolomics analysis of white tea leaves yielded more than 20 differential metabolites with antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities, including amino acids, polypeptides, quercetin, and liquiritin post‐fermentation. FTE, compared to TE, can significantly reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protect against oxidative stress‐induced skin damage in H2O2‐induced HaCaT cells. FTE can inhibit H2O2‐induced collagen degradation by suppressing the MAPK/c‐Jun signalling pathway and can also mitigate the reactive oxygen species damage to nuclear DNA. Clinical studies showed that the volunteers' stratum corneum water content, skin elasticity, wrinkle area, wrinkle area ratio, erythema area, and erythema area ratio significantly improved from the baseline after 28 and 56 days of FTE use.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting the protective effects against skin oxidative stress and ageing from fermented plant extracts. Moreover, our findings might inspire multidisciplinary efforts to investigate new fermentation techniques that could produce even more potent anti‐ageing solutions.
In vitro, ex vivo, instrumental and clinical evaluation of a topical cream on the signs of periorbital ageing
Authors: D'Arcangelis Alexandra , Goswami Chatterjee Sayantani , Diaz Isabel , Guehenneux Sabine , Namkoong Jin , Wu Joanna
Published: August 2024

Objective

Periorbital skin ageing signs are multidimensional, highly visible and a concern for many. We evaluated the potential efficacy of an eye cream to diminish these signs.

Methods

Biological markers associated with ageing, barrier function and homeostasis were analysed in vitro to determine the effects of topically applied eye cream, compared to those of a placebo using human skin tissue models and/or explants. Collagen IV, elastin and bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) expression was investigated by immunohistochemical labelling, while filaggrin, kallikrein 7 (KLK7) and HB‐EGF were evaluated by RT‐qPCR. IL‐1α and melanin levels in darkly pigmented skin models were also quantified. The protective effect of the cream on glycation was assessed by a non‐enzymatic assay. Finally, the benefits of twice‐daily applications of the eye cream for 56 days were instrumentally and clinically evaluated on 33 women.

Results

Only the eye cream, not the placebo, stimulated collagen IV and BMP4 protein expression, as well as increased elastin fibre length. It also led to higher HB‐EGF, filaggrin and KLK7 mRNA levels. The placebo and the eye cream did not induce changes in IL‐1α and melanin levels, but both reduced non‐enzymatic glycation. When assessing the in vivo effects of the cream, short‐term results indicated skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin profilometry improvement within 15 min. Instrumental evaluations of wrinkles showed a reduction after 7 days, which was clinically perceivable after 28 or 56 days. The eye‐opening angle and eyelid sagging also improved after seven and 28 days, respectively. Finally, dark circles became lighter within 7 days (instrumental measurement) or 28 days (clinical assessment).

Conclusion

The instrumental and clinical evaluations revealed that the eye cream reduced all periorbital ageing signs evaluated. Its effects are supported by the in vitro and ex vivo analyses of molecular markers.
The impact of psoriasis on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Qiaolin , Wu Yutong , Jia Sujie , Zhao Ming
Published: August 2024

Background

The association between psoriasis and pulmonary fibrosis has been reported in observational studies. However, the association is vulnerable to bias from using immunosuppressants such as methotrexate, which can cause fibrosis in multiple organs. The present study is to investigate whether psoriasis could independently increase the risk of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Methods

We conducted a two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study using summary statistics from genome‐wide association studies. The random‐effects inverse variance weighted analysis was used as the primary method. Some secondary analyses were further performed, including a sensitivity analysis using a genetic instrument that excluded extended single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene region.

Results

Our study included 9267 cases and 364,071 controls for psoriasis, 2018 cases, and 373,064 controls for IPF of European ancestry, respectively. Genetically predicted psoriasis was associated with a higher risk of IPF (odds ratio (OR), 1.14; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.08–1.22; P < 0.001). Sensitivity analyses did not uncover any statistically significant evidence of bias resulting from pleiotropy or the genetic instruments, including SNPs in the MHC gene region.

Conclusions

These MR analyses support that genetically predicted psoriasis was associated with the risk of IPF, implying that pulmonary fibrosis in patients with psoriasis should not be neglected, even if they are not receiving immunosuppressant therapy.
Novel clipping procedure for preventing post‐operative inguinal hernia in robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy
Authors: Hakozaki Yuji , Yamada Yuta , Fujimura Tetsuya , Kimura Naoki , Sasaki Kenichi , Maki Kazuki , Sugimoto Kazuma , Izumi Taro , Kaneko Jun , Urabe Fumihiko , Tokunaga Mayuko , Fujii Yoichi , Kamei Jun , Kawai Taketo , Taguchi Satoru , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Yamada Daisuke , Kume Haruki
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Inguinal hernia (IH) is a common postoperative complication after robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). We developed a novel clipping technique for the prevention of IH developing after RARP.

Methods

This cohort included 759 consecutive patients who underwent RARP for prostate cancer at the University of Tokyo Hospital between January 2011 and December 2018. We reviewed clinical parameters and identified the risk factors of postoperative IH. The prophylactic preventive procedure of IH development was performed by clipping the peritoneum and underlying tissue around the internal inguinal ring using Hem‐o‐Lok clip to prevent the prolapse of the intestine through the internal inguinal ring.

Results

In total, 236 patients received the clipping procedure. The median follow‐up time was 50 months. The incidence rate of IH was 10.8% (78/720). The median time to the diagnosis of IH was 10 months. Univariate analysis revealed that patients with higher age (age ≥ 63), low BMI (BMI < 25 kg/m2), and lower number of surgical experiences (Surgical experience < 40) showed a significantly higher odds ratio of developing IH. Multivariate analysis showed that “BMI < 25 kg/m2” and “Surgical experience < 40” were independent predictive factors of IH. Among the patients with a high risk of IH due to receiving surgery from inexperienced surgeons, there was a statistically significant preventive effect for the patients with “BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2” by the novel clipping procedure.

Conclusions

The novel clipping procedure reduced the risk of post‐operative IH in obese patients when the RARP was performed by inexperienced surgeons.
Modifying the high‐temperature dielectric properties of PLZT antiferroelectric ceramics by donor‒acceptor codoping
Authors: Li Linhai , Zhou Yongxin , Chen Xuefeng , Wang Genshui
Published: August 2024

(Pb,La)(Zr,Ti)O3 antiferroelectric (AFE) ceramics have attracted considerable interest due to their high‐energy storage density and numerous field‐induced phase transitions. However, the positional equilibrium of the A‐site and B‐site is typically maintained without considering that heterovalent doping of La3+ can induce defects within the material, leading to high‐temperature leakage conduction. In this work, we introduced the acceptor ion Na+ at the A‐site simultaneously and designed Pb0.9175–0.5xLa0.055NaxZr0.975Ti0.025O3 (x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.055, 0.07, 0.10) AFE ceramics. The dielectric properties of these ceramics exhibited a consistent pattern of improvement followed by deterioration as the content of Na+ increased. Notably, when x = 0.055 (Na5.5), the AFE ceramic demonstrated superior high‐temperature frequency stability with negligible leakage conduction. Impedance spectroscopy analysis suggested that Na5.5 displays the greatest resistance and highest Edc. Concurrently, the thermally stimulated depolarization current indicates that Na5.5 possesses the lowest defect concentration and the largest Ea. This can be attributed to the internal generation of defect dipole clusters (), which effectively restrict the movement of charged defects. These findings suggest that Na5.5 holds significant potential for application and offer insights into the understanding of internal defects in lead‐based AFE materials.
People First, Mission Always: A Tension‐Centered Approach to Conducting Safe, Effective Logistics
Authors: Douglas Matthew A. , Roberts Matthew D. , Ford Jessica L.
Published: August 2024

Logistics organizations' cultures inherently produce tension between safety and operational requirements. Perhaps counterintuitively, such tension is important for organizations to achieve safe practice and effective operational outcomes. In this study, we evaluate how logistics managers and workers create, identify, and manage various tensions between operational requirements and personnel health and safety during an extended period of uncertainty. Using a grounded theory (GT) approach, this research draws on multiple data sources from six global U.S. Air Force logistics organizations during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic. A six‐stage GT empirical analysis process revealed a tension‐centered approach to safe, effective logistics, presented as a substantive (middle‐range) theory with an accompanying process model. Data demonstrate operations‐ and people‐focused cultural elements are activated based on respective requirements, thus inducing tension between potentially competing, yet interrelated, areas. In high‐performing organizations, logistics managers and workers address tensions via a balanced focus to alleviate conflicts and conduct safe, effective logistics. This research responds to calls for organizational culture research using qualitative methods while offering implications for theory and practice. Specifically, logistics leaders can use the process model to prepare personnel to safely and effectively handle dynamic operational logistics in the face of unforeseen crises or changes.
Characterization of atrial arrhythmias following mitral valve repair: Incidence and risk factors
Authors: el Mathari Sulayman , Tomšič Anton , Kharbanda Rohit K. , Zappala Pietro , Wijnmaalen Adrianus P. , Klautz Robert J. M. , Silva Marta de Riva , Palmen Meindert
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the occurrence, type and correlation of early and late atrial arrhythmias following mitral valve repair in patients with no preoperative history of atrial arrhythmias.

Methods

Patients undergoing mitral valve (MV) repair for degenerative disease were included. Early and late postoperative electrocardiograms were evaluated for the incidence and type of atrial arrhythmia (atrial fibrillation [AF] or atrial tachycardia [AT]).

Results

The 192 patients were included. Early atrial arrhythmias occurred in 100/192 (52.1%) patients; AF in 61 (31.8%) patients, early AT in 15 (7.8%) and both in 24 (12.5%). In total 89% of patients were discharged in sinus rhythm. During a follow‐up time of 7.3 years, 14 patients (7.3%) died and 49 (25.5%) patients developed late atrial arrhythmias. At 10 years, the cumulative incidence of any late atrial arrhythmia, with death as competing risk, was 64% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 55%–72%). On Fine‐Gray model analysis, only early postoperative AF lasting >24 h was related to the development of late AF (hazard ratio 5.99, 95% CI = 1.78%–20.10%, p = .004). Early postoperative ATs were related to the development of late tachycardias, independent of their duration (<24 h hazard ratio 4.25, 95% CI = 1.89–9.57, p = .001 and >24 h hazard ratio 3.51, 95% CI = 1.65–7.46, p = .001).

Conclusions

Early and late atrial arrhythmias were common after MV repair surgery. Only early postoperative AF lasting >24 h was a risk factor for the occurrence of late AF. Conversely, any postoperative AT was correlated to the development of late ATs.
Medicare‐mandated shared decision making for left atrial appendage closure in clinical practice
Authors: Howard David H. , Dickert Neal W. , Merchant Faisal M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) required a shared decision‐making (SDM) interaction, with an “independent” physician, before left atrial appendage closure (LAAC). The purpose of this study is to better understand how this requirement is implemented in clinical practice.

Methods

We surveyed LAAC‐performing centers. The characteristics of respondent and nonrespondent hospitals were compared using the CMS Provider of Services File for 2017.

Results

We received 86 responses out of 269 surveys mailed (32%). Respondent and nonrespondent hospital affiliations were similar: mean hospital size 525 beds, 15% for‐profit, and 34% teaching hospitals. Thirty‐four respondents (39.5%) stated that the implanting physician conducts some or all of the SDM interactions. The percentage of patients who decide not to undergo LAAC after the SDM interaction was estimated at 8.1%. Out of 72 responses to an open‐ended question about the benefit of the SDM interaction, 44 (61%) described the requirement in negative terms, of which most felt the requirement was burdensome for patients and providers. Only 28 respondents (39%) described the requirement in positive or mixed terms.

Conclusion

In violation of the letter of the CMS policy for LAAC, implanting physicians perform the SDM interaction at nearly 40% of responding hospitals. Most respondents felt the SDM requirement was burdensome for patients. More detailed guidance from CMS on how to comply with the policy may result in better alignment between the intent of the policy and how it is implemented.
Platelet transfusion enhances pro‐aggregatory status shortly after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) while modulating platelet pro‐inflammatory state 1‐week post‐surgery
Authors: Ahmadi Javad , Hosseini Ehteramolsadat , Kargar Faranak , Maghsudlu Mahtab , Ghasemzadeh Mehran
Published: August 2024

During coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), the surgical procedure, particularly the manipulation of the major arteries of the heart, induces a significant inflammatory state that may compromise platelet function to the extent that platelet transfusion is required. Given stored platelets as a major source of biological mediators, this study investigates the effects of platelet transfusion on the major pro‐aggregatory, pro‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory markers of platelets. Platelets from 20 patients, 10 who received platelet transfusion and 10 without, were subjected to flow cytometery where P‐selectin and CD40 ligand (CD40L) expressions and PAC‐1 binding (activation‐specific anti GPIIb/GPIIIa antibody) analysed at five‐time points of 24 h before surgery, immediately, 2 h, 24 h and 1 week after surgery. Analysis of intra‐platelet transforming growth factor‐beta‐1 (TGF‐β1) was also conducted using western blotting. Patients with platelet transfusion showed increased levels of P‐selectin, CD40L and intra‐platelet TGF‐β1 2‐h after surgery compared to those without transfusion (p < 0.05). PAC‐1 binding was increased 24 h after surgery in transfused patients (p < 0.05). Given the significant post‐transfusion elevation of platelet TGF‐β1, P‐sel/CD40L reduction in transfused patients a week after was of much interest. This study showed for the first time the significant effects of platelet transfusion on the pro‐inflammatory, pro‐aggeregatory and immunomodulatory state of platelets in CABG patients, which manifested with immediate, midterm and delayed consequences. While the increased pro‐inflammatory conditions manifested as an immediate effect of platelet transfusion, the pro‐aggregatory circumstances emerged 24 h post‐transfusion. A week after surgery, attenuations of pro‐inflammatory markers of platelets in transfused patients were shown, which might be due to the immunomodulatory effects of TGF‐β1.
Comparative muscle anatomy of the anuran pelvis and hindlimb in relation to locomotor mode
Authors: Leavey Alice , Richards Christopher T. , Porro Laura B.
Published: August 2024

Frogs have a highly conserved body plan, yet they employ a diverse array of locomotor modes, making them ideal organisms for investigating the relationships between morphology and locomotor function, in particular whether anatomical complexity is a prerequisite for functional complexity. We use diffusible iodine contrast‐enhanced microCT (diceCT) imaging to digitally dissect the gross muscle anatomy of the pelvis and hindlimbs for 30 species of frogs representing five primary locomotor modes, including the first known detailed dissection for some of the world's smallest frogs, forming the largest digital comparative analysis of musculoskeletal structure in any vertebrate clade to date. By linking musculoskeletal dissections and phylogenetic comparative methods, we then quantify and compare relationships between anatomy and function across over 160 million years of anuran evolution. In summary, we have found that bone lengths and pelvic crest sizes are generally not reliable predictors of muscle sizes, which highlights important implications for future palaeontological studies. Our investigation also presents previously unreported differences in muscle anatomy between frogs specialising in different locomotor modes, including several of the smallest frog hindlimb muscles, which are extremely difficult to extract and measure using traditional approaches. Furthermore, we find evidence of many‐to‐one and one‐to‐many mapping of form to function across the phylogeny. Additionally, we perform the first quantitative analysis of how the degree of muscle separation can differ between frogs. We find evidence that phylogenetic history is the key contributing factor to muscle separation in the pelvis and thigh, while the separation of shank muscles is influenced more strongly by locomotor mode. Finally, our anatomical 3D reconstructions are published alongside this manuscript to contribute towards future research and serve as educational materials.
Within‐ and between‐person effects of causal attributions on relationship improvement following perceived incivility
Authors: Carson Jack , Mackey Jeremy , Alexander Katherine , McAllister Charn , Phillipich Michael
Published: August 2024

Workplace incivility research has grown considerably over recent decades. However, this stream of research still has not adequately explained targets' attributions for experienced incivility or their potential positive responses to incivility. The present study longitudinally investigates the relationship between attributions for workplace incivility and relationship improvement responses with data from 1871 person‐month observations. In contrast to expectations, we found targets' beliefs that their relationship with the uncivil coworker was the cause of the incivility (i.e., relational locus of causality) were negatively related to relationship improvement behaviours. The results also indicated that this negative relationship was attenuated by belief that the target had control over the cause of incivility (i.e., internal controllability) and task interdependence at the between‐person level, and by belief that the uncivil coworker had control over the cause of incivility (i.e., external controllability) at the within‐person level. Direct effects analysis indicated that internal and external controllability attributions for incivility had significant positive between‐person effects on relationship improvement efforts. Frequency of interaction and task interdependence were both significant positive predictors of relationship improvement efforts at both the between‐ and within‐person levels. Implications for research and future directions are discussed.
The Value of an Informal Before‐School Exercise Opportunity for Adolescent Girls Living in a Low‐Socioeconomic Community
Authors: White Rhiannon Lee , Sherson Jamie , Young Carmen , Noon Ted
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Physical activity is beneficial to physical, social, and emotional well‐being, and schools are required to provide opportunities to engage in physical activity. While physical education and school sport have been extensively researched, little is known about the value of informal, unstructured, exercise opportunities.

METHODS

This study involved interviews with 19 adolescent girls who attended “extra” exercise opportunities provided by their school. The 3 opportunities were: (1) informal before‐school exercise sessions at school, (2) before‐school sport training, and (3) externally provided exercise sessions in a community setting during school hours.

RESULTS

Students perceived all opportunities as valuable with benefits to confidence, social well‐being, and emotional well‐being. The informal exercise sessions held greater benefits to confidence as confidence transferred from the physical activity context into the academic classroom more so than for those participating in sport. Social benefits were greater for those exercising before school as this opportunity created new relationships with teachers and with students from other classes and year groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The opportunity to engage in informal exercise with peers before school widened social networks, increased confidence, changed the overall school climate, and increased attendance.
Pleasantness of fat flavor is decreased in young adults with high perceived stress
Authors: Hu Qian , Zheng Longxuan , Luo Lige , Yu Haiyang , Han Pengfei
Published: August 2024

Chronic stress has been linked to changes in taste or odor perception. People with high levels of perceived chronic stress consume more fatty foods. However, few studies have investigated whether perceived chronic stress is associated with altered fat perception. High‐stress (N = 33) and low‐stress (N = 31) participants were pre‐screened using the simplified Chinese version of the Perceived Stress Scale (SCPSS). Oral and olfactory discrimination of fat between milk samples with different fat contents (0%, 2%, and 3.5%) were assessed using the A‐Not A with reminder task (A‐Not AR). Perceived creaminess, fattiness, and liking for fat taste/flavor were measured using Likert scales. Dairy intake was measured using the food frequency scales and the 24‐hour food recall questionnaires. No significant difference in fat discrimination performance was found between the high‐ and low‐stress groups. Compared with the low‐stress group, the high‐stress group showed reduced pleasantness ratings for the whole milk fat flavor and taste (with nose clips). In addition, the high‐stress group ate less vegetables and fruits than the low‐stress group. For people with high levels of perceived stress, the observed altered fat sensory preference may contribute to the consumption or choice of certain foods.

Practical Applications

The perception of fat contributes to food consumption. The current results suggest that a high level of perceived stress is associated with decreased hedonic food‐related fat sensory perception, which contributes to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying stress‐related eating behavior and may help future research on dietary or psychological interventions for stressed populations.
Standard area diagrams for severity assessment of eucalypt bacterial leaf blight caused by Xanthomonas spp.
Authors: Neves Yane Fernandes , Eloi Ana Carolina Lopes , Santos Samuel A. , Alfenas Rafael Ferreira , Alfenas Acelino Couto , Badel Jorge Luis
Published: August 2024

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) caused by Xanthomonas spp. is an important threat for eucalypt production. Planting of resistant genotypes is the best strategy for eucalypt BLB control. However, selection of resistant clones is challenging since the disease is caused by at least three Xanthomonas species that can be sympatric and cause a range of foliar symptoms. So far, standard area diagrams (SADs) to assess eucalypt BLB severity caused by different Xanthomonas species have not been reported. Here, SADs for eucalypt BLB severity assessment were developed. Plants of five eucalypt genotypes were individually inoculated with different Xanthomonas species and leaves exhibiting lesions varying in colour, shape, and size were digitally scanned for disease assessment. Among 150 scanned leaves, the actual leaf affected area ranged from 0.01% to 55%. Based on these minimum and maximum values and the frequency of severity distribution, the 10 leaves that best represented the distribution of affected leaf area were selected to assemble the SADs. Groups of experienced and inexperienced raters estimated BLB severity on a subset of 50 out of the 150 original leaves without and then with the use of the SADs. Correlation concordance analyses revealed that SADs provided a significant improvement in accuracy, precision and reliability of disease estimates by both rater groups, with higher gains observed for the inexperienced group. The SADs developed in this study will be useful for selection of eucalypt genotypes resistant to BLB under controlled conditions when knowledge on the Xanthomonas species composition is lacking or when local populations are comprised of several species.
Assessment of Single‐Dose Pharmacokinetics of Oxolinic Acid in Rainbow Trout and Determination of In Vitro Antibacterial Activity Against Pathogenic Bacteria From Diseased Fish
Authors: Pathak Richa , Mallik Sumanta Kumar , Patil Prasanna Kumar , Shahi Neetu , Kala Krishna , Bhat Raja Adil Hussain , Nadella Ranjit Kumar , Pandey Nityanand , Pandey Pramod Kumar
Published: August 2024

In response to the heightened risk of bacterial diseases in fish farms caused by increased demand for fish consumption and subsequent overcrowding, researchers are currently investigating the efficacy and residue management of oxolinic acid (OA) as a treatment for bacterial infections in fish. This research is crucial for gaining a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacokinetics of OA. The present study investigates pharmacokinetics of OA in juvenile rainbow trout. The fish were given a 12 mg kg−1 dose of OA through their feed, and tissue samples were collected of the liver, kidney, gill, intestine, muscle, and plasma for analysis using LC‐MS/MS. The highest concentrations of the drug were found in the gill (4096.55 μg kg−1) and intestine (11592.98 μg kg−1), with significant absorption also seen in the liver (0.36 L/h) and gill (0.07 L/h) (p < 0.05). The liver (0.21 L/h) and kidney (0.03 L/h) were found to be the most efficient (p < 0.05) at eliminating the drug. The study also confirmed the drug antimicrobial effectiveness against several bacterial pathogens, including Shewanella xiamenensis (0.25 μg mL−1), Lactococcus garvieae (1 μg mL−1), and Chryseobacterium aquaticum (4 μg mL−1). The study concludes significant variations among different fish tissues, with higher concentrations and longer half‐lives observed in the kidney and intestine. The lowest MIC value recorded against major bacterial pathogens demonstrated its therapeutic potential in aquaculture. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding OA pharmacokinetics to optimize antimicrobial therapy in aquaculture.