bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The challenging biogeography of the Juan Fernández Islands and Coast Range of central Chile explained by new models of East Pacific tectonics
Authors: Heads Michael , Saldivia Patricio
Published: July 2024

Biogeographers have often been puzzled by several unusual features in the Juan Fernández Islands (JFI) biota. These include the very high endemism density, multiple endemics that are older than the current islands, close biogeographic affinities with the central and West Pacific, and affinities with the diverse Coast Range of central Chile. We review aspects of biogeography in the JFI and the Coast Range in light of recent geological studies. These have examined the mantle below the East Pacific and South America, and have produced radical, new ideas on tectonic history. A long‐lived, intraoceanic archipelago ~9000 km long is now thought to have existed in the East Pacific (passing between the JFI hotspot and mainland Chile) until the mid‐Cretaceous. At this time, South America, which was moving westward with the opening of the Atlantic, collided with the archipelago. The assumption that the JFI biota is no older than its current islands is questionable, as taxa would have survived on prior islands produced at the JFI hotspot. We propose a new interpretation of evolution in the region based on tectonics rather than on island age and incorporating the following factors: the newly described East Pacific Archipelago; a long history for the JFI hotspot; metapopulation dynamics, including metapopulation vicariance; and formation of the Humboldt Current in the Cretaceous. The model accounts for many distinctive features of the JFI and Coast Range biota.
Health utility attributable to oral conditions in Japanese adults
Authors: Matsuyama Yusuke , Tabuchi Takahiro
Published: July 2024

Objective

Utility values enable relative comparisons across various health conditions, providing information for efficient allocation of healthcare resources. This study aimed to (1) quantify the utility values attributable to oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in Japanese adults and (2) develop models for converting the 14‐item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14) scores into EuroQoL 5‐dimension 5‐level (EQ‐5D‐5L)‐based utility values.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study. Data from a large‐scale Internet survey of Japanese adults conducted in 2022 (n = 28 405; mean age 48.2 years) were analysed. Multiple linear regression models were fitted to investigate the association between OHIP‐14 scores and EQ‐5D‐5L‐based utility values, adjusting for confounders. Conversion models were developed using a random half of the participants, and the observed and predicted utility values in the other half were compared to evaluate the model performance.

Results

Among the participants, 55.2% scored 0, 20.9% scored 1–5 and 23.9% scored 6–56 on the OHIP‐14, corresponding mean utility values of 0.93, 0.90 and 0.84, respectively. A one‐point increase in the OHIP‐14 score was associated with a lower utility value (coefficient: −0.0053; 95% confidence interval:health‐related quality of life −0.0056, −0.0051). The estimated utility value attributable to OHIP‐14 was −23.3 per 1000 individuals, greater than that for other prevalent chronic conditions, including hypertension and diabetes (−2.9 and −7.1 per 1000 individuals, respectively). The conversion model incorporated the OHIP‐14 total score, age, sex and self‐rated health, predicted utility scores on average and captured differences according to the number of teeth lost. However, there was a discrepancy between predicted and observed utility values in the lower utility value groups.

Conclusion

OHRQoL substantially impacted utility values at the population level. The OHIP‐14 holds the potential as a valuable tool for predicting average utility values based on oral health conditions; however, the prediction performance was relatively low for individuals with a lower health‐related quality of life.
Comparative osseointegration of hydrophobic tissue‐level tapered implants—A preclinical in vivo study
Authors: Imber Jean‐Claude , Khandanpour Azita , Roccuzzo Andrea , Irani Delia R. , Bosshardt Dieter D. , Sculean Anton , Pippenger Benjamin E.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To histometrically compare the osseointegration and crestal bone healing of a novel tapered, self‐cutting tissue‐level test implant with a standard tissue‐level control implant in a submerged healing regimen.

Materials and Methods

In a mandibular minipig model, implants were inserted and evaluated histometrically after a healing period of 3, 6, and 12 weeks. The primary outcome was the evaluation of bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC) and secondary outcomes were primary stability as per insertion torque and first BIC (fBIC). Outcomes for the test and control implants were compared using Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests and mixed linear regression models.

Results

Insertion torque values were significantly higher for the test (50.0 ± 26.4 Ncm) compared to the control implants (35.2 ± 19.7 Ncm, p = .0071). BIC values of test implants were non‐inferior to those of control implants over the investigated study period. After 12 weeks, the corresponding values measured were 81.62 ± 11.12% and 90.41 ± 4.81% (p = .1763) for test and control implants, respectively. Similarly, no statistical difference was found for fBIC values, except for the 12 weeks outcome that showed statistically lower values for the test (−675.58 ± 590.88 μm) compared to control implants (−182.75 ± 197.40 μm, p = .0068).

Conclusions

Novel self‐cutting tissue‐level implants demonstrated noninferior osseointegration and crestal bone height maintenance to the tissue‐level implants. Histometric outcomes between both implants demonstrated test implants were statistically noninferior to control implants, despite substantial differences in the bone engagement mechanism and resulting differences in insertion torque and qualitative bone healing patterns.
Landscape effects on dispersal‐related traits in a sedentary butterfly in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Deppe Franziska , Achterberg Christoph , Dittmar Johanna‐Marie , Kunz Steffen , Müller Lara , Näckel Lara , Wittkamp Luisa , Fischer Klaus
Published: July 2024

Agricultural intensification causes the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats, which negatively impacts farmland biodiversity. The concomitant isolation of essential resources may favour increased dispersal ability in flying insects, resulting in differences in flight morphology and dispersal propensity across landscapes.

We collected the butterfly Coenonympha pamphilus in four replicated landscape pairs, each consisting of (a) a highly fragmented and intensified ‘modern’ and (b) a less fragmented ‘traditional’ agricultural landscape. We compared condition (i.e. storage reserves), flight morphology, dispersal capacity and propensity of the collected butterflies between both landscape types. We also tested for the impact of landscape composition and configuration at different spatial scales on butterfly traits.

No differences between landscape types per se could be found, but a variety of landscape features affected butterfly traits, indicating complex interactions between landscape heterogeneity and dispersal. In particular, landscapes with a high proportion of crop fields appeared to be selected for phenotypes enhancing dispersal ability.

Since dispersal is a key factor for the persistence of metapopulations in fragmented landscapes, we argue that limitations on dispersal in relation to compositional and configurational landscape heterogeneity should be considered in the debate on insect declines in agricultural landscapes.
Histamine in the neocortex: Towards integrating multiscale effectors
Authors: Benoy Amrita , Ramaswamy Srikanth
Published: July 2024

Histamine is a modulatory neurotransmitter, which has received relatively less attention in the central nervous system than other neurotransmitters. The functional role of histamine in the neocortex, the brain region that controls higher‐order cognitive functions such as attention, learning and memory, remains largely unknown. This article focuses on the emerging roles and mechanisms of histamine release in the neocortex. We describe gaps in current knowledge and propose the application of interdisciplinary tools to dissect the detailed multiscale functional logic of histaminergic action in the neocortex ranging from sub‐cellular, cellular, dendritic and synaptic levels to microcircuits and mesoscale effects.
Modulation of sleep/wake patterns by gephyrin phosphorylation status
Authors: Tsai Yuan‐Chen , ElGrawani Waleed , Muheim Christine , Spinnler Andrea , Campbell Benjamin F. N. , Lasic Denis , Hleihil Mohammad , Brown Steven A. , Tyagarajan Shiva K.
Published: July 2024

Sleep/wake cycles intricately shape physiological activities including cognitive brain functions, yet the precise molecular orchestrators of sleep remain elusive. Notably, the clinical impact of benzodiazepine drugs underscores the pivotal role of GABAergic neurotransmission in sleep regulation. However, the specific contributions of distinct GABAA receptor subtypes and their principal scaffolding protein, gephyrin, in sleep dynamics remain unclear. The evolving role of synaptic phospho‐proteome alterations at excitatory and inhibitory synapses suggests a potential avenue for modulating gephyrin and, consequently, GABAARs for sleep through on‐demand kinase recruitment. Our study unveils the distinctive roles of two prevalent GABAA receptor subtypes, α1‐ and α2‐GABAARs, in influencing sleep duration and electrical sleep activity. Notably, the absence of α1‐GABAARs emerges as central in sleep regulation, manifesting significant alterations in both non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep during dark or active phases, accompanied by altered electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns across various frequencies. Gephyrin proteomics analysis reveals sleep/wake‐dependent interactions with a repertoire of known and novel kinases. Crucially, we identify the regulation of gephyrin interaction with ERK1/2, and phosphorylations at serines 268 and 270 are dictated by sleep/wake cycles. Employing AAV‐eGFP‐gephyrin or its phospho‐null variant (S268A/S270A), we disrupt sleep either globally or locally to demonstrate gephyrin phosphorylation as a sleep regulator. In summary, our findings support the local cortical sleep hypothesis and we unveil a molecular mechanism operating at GABAergic synapses, providing critical insights into the intricate regulation of sleep.
Ambient air pollution, covert cerebrovascular disease and cognition: results from the ISSYS study
Authors: Ballvé A. , Pizarro J. , Maisterra O. , Riba‐Llena I. , Pujadas F. , Jiménez‐Balado J. , Palasi A. , Cirach M. , Turner M. C. , Sunyer J. , Delgado P.
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose

Although air pollution (AP) has been associated with stroke and dementia, data regarding its relationship with covert cerebrovascular disease (cCVD) and cognition over time are sparse. The aim of this study was to explore these relationships.

Methods

A prospective population‐based study of 976 stroke‐free and non‐demented individuals living in Barcelona, Spain, was conducted during 2010–2016. A land use regression model was used to estimate the exposure of each participant to AP: NOx, NO2, PM2.5, PM10, PMcoarse and PM2.5 absorbance. Cognitive function and cCVD were assessed at baseline (n = 976) and 4 years after (n = 317). Multivariate‐adjusted models were developed.

Results

At baseline, 99 participants (10.1%) had covert brain infarcts and 91 (9.3%) had extensive periventricular white matter hyperintensities (WMHs). Marked subcortical WMH progression was seen in 19.7%; the incidence of other covert cerebrovascular lessons ranged between 5% and 6% each. PM2.5 was related to higher odds of having a covert brain infarct (odds ratio [OR] 2.21; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–4.60). PM2.5 absorbance was related to higher odds of having extensive subcortical WMHs (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.13–2.60), whereas NO2 was related to higher odds of having extensive subcortical (OR 1.66; 95% CI 1.17–2.35) or periventricular (OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.10–3.50) WMHs and to higher odds of developing marked subcortical WMH progression (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.05–1.90). NOx was related to incident cerebral microbleeds (OR 1.36; 95% CI 1.04–1.79). There was no association between AP and cognition.

Conclusions

Air pollutant predicts the presence and accumulation of cCVD. Its impact on cognitive impairment remains to be determined.
Elevated plasma neurofilament light and glial fibrillary acidic protein in epilepsy versus nonepileptic seizures and nonepileptic disorders
Authors: Dobson Hannah , Al Maawali Said , Malpas Charles , Santillo Alexander F. , Kang Matthew , Todaro Marian , Watson Rosie , Yassi Nawaf , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Foster Emma , Neal Andrew , Velakoulis Dennis , O'Brien Terence John , Eratne Dhamidhu , Kwan Patrick
Published: July 2024

Objective

Research suggests that recurrent seizures may lead to neuronal injury. Neurofilament light chain protein (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels increase in cerebrospinal fluid and blood in response to neuroaxonal damage, and they have been hypothesized as potential biomarkers for epilepsy. We examined plasma NfL and GFAP levels and their diagnostic utility in differentiating patients with epilepsy from those with psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) and other nonepileptic disorders.

Methods

We recruited consecutive adults admitted for video‐electroencephalographic monitoring and formal neuropsychiatric assessment. NfL and GFAP levels were quantified and compared between different patient groups and an age‐matched reference cohort (n = 1926) and correlated with clinical variables in patients with epilepsy.

Results

A total of 138 patients were included, of whom 104 were diagnosed with epilepsy, 22 with PNES, and 12 with other conditions. Plasma NfL and GFAP levels were elevated in patients with epilepsy compared to PNES, adjusted for age and sex (NfL p = .04, GFAP p = .04). A high proportion of patients with epilepsy (20%) had NfL levels above the 95th age‐matched percentile compared to the reference cohort (5%). NfL levels above the 95th percentile of the reference cohort had a 95% positive predictive value for epilepsy. Patients with epilepsy who had NfL levels above the 95th percentile were younger than those with lower levels (37.5 vs. 43.8 years, p = .03).

Significance

An elevated NfL or GFAP level in an individual patient may support an underlying epilepsy diagnosis, particularly in younger adults, and cautions against a diagnosis of PNES alone. Further examination of the association between NfL and GFAP levels and specific epilepsy subtypes or seizure characteristics may provide valuable insights into disease heterogeneity and contribute to the refinement of diagnosis, understanding pathophysiological mechanisms, and formulating treatment approaches.
The involvement of keratinocytes in pruritus of chronic inflammatory dermatosis
Authors: Lin Shiying , Liu Xin , Jiang Jian , Ge Wenqiang , Zhang Yinlian , Li Fei , Tao Qingxiao , Liu Suwen , Li Man , Chen Hongxiang
Published: July 2024

Frequent itching and incessant scratching are commonly observed in various chronic inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. The persistent and prolonged nature of pruritus can worsen one's quality of life. Keratinocytes (KCs), the predominant cells of the epidermis, have been confirmed to interact with sensory neurons and immune cells and be involved in chronic skin inflammatory diseases associated with pruritus. Initially, KCs and sensory neurons form a unique synapse‐like connection within the epidermis, serving as the structural foundation for their interaction. Additionally, several receptors, including toll‐like receptors and protease‐activated receptor 2, expressed on KCs, become activated in an inflammatory milieu. On the one hand, activated KCs are sources of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and neurotrophic factors, such as adenosine triphosphate, thymic stromal lymphopoietin, and nerve growth factor, which directly or indirectly participate in stimulating sensory neurons, thereby contributing to the itch sensations. On the other hand, KCs also function as primary transducers alongside intraepidermal nerve endings, directly initiating pruritic responses. This review summarizes the current literature and highlights the critical role of KCs in the development and persistence of chronic itch in inflammatory skin disorders.
Fatigue behavior under variable amplitude loadings in AlSi10Mg alloy components produced by laser powder bed fusion
Authors: Fernandes Rui Filipe , de Jesus Joel , Borrego Luis Pires , Ferreira José António , Branco Ricardo , Costa José Domingos
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the fatigue behavior of AlSi10Mg alloy manufactured via laser powder bed fusion under variable amplitude loading conditions. Two material conditions were examined: as‐built and stress relief, with the later involving a lower temperature compared to the conventional heat treatments, aimed at preventing the Al‐Si network rupture. Fatigue tests were conducted using two distinct loading spectra: block loading and random loading. While the stress relief reduced the monotonic properties of the material, it resulted in increased fatigue performance due to the homogenization of residual stress throughout the depth. Fracture surface analysis revealed initiation points on subsurface defects, with both block and random loading cases exhibiting overload markings from loading transitions. The predictive model incorporating crack initiation and propagation periods yielded good results, with the equivalent stress range approach providing higher quality estimation compared to the real stress range approach.
Salinity plays a limited role in determining rates of size evolution in fishes globally across multiple scales
Authors: Clarke John T. , Davis Robert B.
Published: July 2024

Aim

Substantial progress has been made to map biodiversity and its drivers across the planet at multiple scales, yet studies that quantify the evolutionary processes that underpin this biodiversity, and test their drivers at multiple scales, are comparatively rare. Studying most fish species, we quantify rates of body size evolution to test the role of fundamental salinity habitats in shaping rates of evolution at multiple scales. We also determine how four additional factors shape evolutionary rates.

Location

Global.

Time Period

Extant species.

Major Taxa Studied

Actinopterygii.

Methods

In up to 1710 comparisons studying over 27,000 species, we compare rates of body size evolution among five salinity habits using 13 metrics. The comparisons span a molecular tree, 100 supertrees, and 10 scales of observation to test for robust patterns and reveal how patterns change with scale. Then, three approaches assess the role of three non‐salinity factors on rates, and an alternative habitat scheme tests if lakes influence evolutionary rates.

Results

Rates of size evolution rarely differ consistently between salinity habitats; rate patterns are highly clade‐ and scale dependent. One exception is freshwater‐brackish fishes, which possess among the highest size rates of any salinity, showing higher rates than euryhaline fishes in most groupings studied at most scales, and versus marine, freshwater and marine–brackish habitats at numerous scales. Additionally, species richness had the greatest potential to predict phenotypic rates, followed by branch duration, then absolute values of body size. Lacustrine environments were consistently associated with high rates of size evolution.

Main Conclusions

We reveal the rate patterns that underpin global body size diversity for fishes, identifying factors that play a limited role in shaping rates of size evolution, such as salinity, and those such as species richness, age and lake environments that consistently shape evolutionary rates across half of vertebrate diversity.
Collective cognition in context: Explaining variation in the management of Europe's 2015 migration crisis
Authors: Jugl Marlene
Published: July 2024

Cognition is an essential first step in crisis management. This article conceptualizes crisis cognition as a collective and context‐dependent process. Drawing on cognitive sociology, I argue that governmental structures and culture/identity shape cognitive schemas and communicative practices essential for collective cognition. I apply this framework to compare governments' recognition of the 2015 migration crisis in Luxembourg and Germany, which showed a puzzling gap in crisis preparation. The qualitative analysis triangulates interviews and other sources. In Germany, complex responsibilities, adversarial bureaucratic identities, and hubris inhibited cognition. In small Luxembourg, simple government structures and collective identity emphasizing vulnerability fostered timely cognition and preparation. I consider country size as macro‐level context that shapes government structures and officials' identities, and critically discuss its role as an underlying explanation. This study introduces a sociological perspective on cognition to public administration, shows through which mechanisms context affects collective behavior, and proposes a comparative explanation for effective crisis management.
Frequency of use and annual costs of biological therapy for psoriasis in Colombia in 2019
Authors: Fernández‐Ávila Daniel G. , Prada‐Vanegas Jennifer D. , De la Espriella María C. , Barahona‐Correa Julián E. , Charry Laura P. , Cuellar Isabel
Published: July 2024

Background

Evidence describing the types and annual costs of biological treatments for psoriasis in Latin America is scarce. This study aimed to estimate the frequency of use and costs of biologic therapy for psoriasis in Colombia in 2019.

Methods

This secondary data analysis uses the International Classification of Diseases terms associated with psoriasis, excluding those related to psoriatic arthritis, based on data from the registry of the Colombian Ministry of Health. We estimated the prevalence of psoriasis per 100,000 inhabitants; then, we retrieved the frequency of use of biologic therapy in patients with psoriasis and estimated the cost per year of each and overall therapies in 2019 in US dollars (USD).

Results

There were 100,823 patients with psoriasis in Colombia in 2019, which amounts to a prevalence of 0.2% in the general population. Of those patients, 4.9% received biologic therapy, most frequently males (60%). The most commonly used biological therapies for psoriasis in Colombia in 2019 were ustekinumab (35.2%), with an annual cost per patient of $12,880 USD; adalimumab (26%), with a yearly cost per patient of $7130 USD; and secukinumab (19.8%), with an annual cost per patient of $6825 USD.

Conclusion

This is the first study to describe the use and cost of biological therapy for psoriasis in Colombia. It provides valuable cost‐awareness information for the Colombian health system.
Will you stay or will you go?: The role of incidental learning within a liminal space in shaping student nurses' perceptions of nursing
Authors: Nagle Louise , Mahon Juliet Mc , Fitzpatrick Mary
Published: July 2024

Currently, in Ireland, there is a high rate of attrition among newly qualified student nurses. This paper specifically seeks to provide insights into this issue through an exploration of the experiences and perceptions of clinical placement from a sample of student nurses and preceptors in Ireland through the conceptual lenses of both incidental learning and liminality. We conclude that the power of incidental learning on students transversing a liminal space should not be underestimated and that in our study the surrounding context of support (particularly from preceptors) was critical. Incidental learning around aspects of organization culture and hierarchy that caused dissonance for students emerged as a consistent outcome. So too did time and resource pressure on preceptors due to staffing shortages which, in turn, impacted negatively on workplace learning opportunities beyond routine incidental learning and support available to students to constructively make sense of their experiences. We argue that results from this study can inform not just nurse education but may also give pause for thought to those responsible for professions which have substantial work placement aspects as part of their qualifying route such as apprenticeships.
‘Drifting’ Buchnera genomes track the microevolutionary trajectories of their aphid hosts
Authors: Thia Joshua A. , Zhan Dongwu , Robinson Katie , Umina Paul A. , Hoffmann Ary A. , Yang Qiong
Published: July 2024

Evolution of Buchnera–aphid host symbioses is often studied among species at macroevolutionary scales. Investigations within species offer a different perspective about how eco‐evolutionary processes shape patterns of genetic variation at microevolutionary scales. Our study leverages new and publicly available whole‐genome sequencing data to study Buchnera–aphid host evolution in Myzus persicae, the peach potato aphid, a globally invasive and polyphagous pest. Across 43 different asexual, clonally reproducing isofemale strains, we examined patterns of genomic covariation between Buchnera and their aphid host and considered the distribution of mutations in protein‐coding regions of the Buchnera genome. We found Buchnera polymorphisms within aphid strains, suggesting the presence of genetically different Buchnera strains within the same clonal lineage. Genetic distance between pairs of Buchnera samples was positively correlated to genetic distance between their aphid hosts, indicating shared evolutionary histories. However, there was no segregation of genetic variation for both M. persicae and Buchnera with plant host (Brassicaceae and non‐tobacco Solanaceae) and no associations between genetic and geographic distance at global or regional spatial scales. Abundance patterns of non‐synonymous mutations were similar to synonymous mutations in the Buchnera genome, and both mutation classes had similar site frequency spectra. We hypothesize that a predominance of neutral processes results in the Buchnera of M. persicae to simply ‘drift’ with the evolutionary trajectory of their aphid hosts. Our study presents a unique microevolutionary characterization of Buchnera–aphid host genomic covariation across multiple aphid clones. This provides a new perspective on the eco‐evolutionary processes generating and maintaining polymorphisms in a major pest aphid species and its obligate primary endosymbiont.
Low Light at Specific Growth Stage Affects Photoassimilates Transportation, Seed Quality and Yield in Brassica napus L.
Authors: Javed Hafiz Hassan , Hu Yue , Raza Ali , Alabdallah Nadiyah M. , Asghar Muhammad Ahsan , Khan Khurram Shehzad , Peng Xiao , Ghafoor Abu Zar , Ullah Abd , Wu Yong‐Cheng
Published: July 2024

In many parts of the world, solar radiation has decreased during the past 50 years due to industrialisation‐induced elevations in air aerosols which has negatively impacted crop productivity. Climate change threatens rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) production due to shade stress caused by reduced light radiation. However, studies on how shade affects photosynthetic mechanisms in rapeseed (leaves and pod wall) are not well documented. Understanding the mechanisms of shade on yield formation in rapeseed is important for breeding shade‐tolerant rapeseed varieties and optimising agricultural management practices in low‐light areas. Therefore, this study assesses the impacts of ‘global dimming’ simulated by shading at a specific period on rapeseed's photosynthetic behaviour, yield and seed quality. A two‐factor split‐plot design was arranged with three shading treatments (CK, FS and PS) and two hybrid genotypes (Chuannong and Zhongyouza) of rapeseed. We observed that shading at the flowering stage (FS) significantly inhibited the leaf area index, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency and enzymatic activities of both genotypes. Besides that, shading at pod development stage (PS) substantially declined the pod photosynthetic characteristics and transportation of carbohydrates towards economic organ (seeds) which directly decreased the yield of rapeseed. We found that PS treatment remarkably declined the oil content of both genotypes. According to the results, the photosynthetic capacity of rapeseed pod wall had a greater impact on yield and seed quality than leaves. Therefore, improving the photosynthetic capacity and material transport efficiency of the pod wall is a potential measure to increase the yield of rapeseed under shade stress. This study provides a new insight into the effects of shade on rapeseed production and provides a valuable reference for rapeseed breeding techniques to develop high‐yielding genotypes by enhancing the photosynthetic efficiency of rapeseed pod wall in low‐light conditions.
Synthesis methodology of pure N–A–S–H gels with wide range of Si/Al ratios at ambient temperature
Authors: Shamo Eashow , Charpentier Thibault , Moskura Mélanie , Chartier Alain , Miserque Frédéric , Rousselet Angélique
Published: July 2024

This study presents the development of a synthesis route for sodium aluminosilicate hydrate (N–A–S–H) gels with various Si/Al ratios carried out at ambient temperature. The synthesis is based on a simple “sol–gel” method, where commercial reactants are used to provide highly reactive Si and Al sources. Comprehensive characterization, including scanning electron microscope‐energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), gas pycnometry, inductively coupled plasma (ICP), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and magic angle spinning (MAS) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) (27Al, 23Na, 29Si, and 1H), is employed to verify the morphology, density, chemical composition, long‐range order, and local structure of the gels. Our results show that the synthesized gels are pure, amorphous, and homogeneous with Si/Al final ratio ranging from 1.22 to 2.23. Structural analysis of the gels indicates the synthesis of compounds with high degree of geopolymerization, which are representative of N–A–S–H gel formed in sodium‐based geopolymers.
Fabrication of ultralightweight, thermal insulation alumina scaffolds by a hybrid sol–gel/freeze‐casting approach
Authors: Ho Pei‐Chieh , Chang Haw‐Kai , Chen Po‐Yu
Published: July 2024

Freeze casting is an effective way to fabricate the porous ceramics with anisotropic and interconnected porous structures and can be used in various applications, such as filtration, adsorption, and insulation. However, the ceramic‐based scaffolds fabricated by freeze casting have the upper limit of porosity since excessively low solid content in the slurry will lead to structural instability and cracks formation in scaffolds. This study aims at combining the freeze casting and sol–gel method and developing a hybrid process to overcome the limitation of freeze casting. Besides, the effects of solid content and cooling rates on the microstructure of ultralightweight alumina scaffolds (ULASs) and their mechanical and thermal properties were investigated. Aluminum isopropoxide was selected as the precursor to conduct the hydrolysis reaction in acid environment and condensation process by heat treatment. The successfully synthesized alumina scaffolds have ultrahigh porosity (>90%), low bulk density (0.1240–0.2429 g/cm3), and low relative density (0.0314–0.0615). The anisotropic porous lamellar structure was evaluated by scanning electron microscope, µ‐CT, and mercury porosimeter. A lot of nanoscale pores are observed on the lamellae surfaces, forming the dual‐scale porous structure inside the scaffolds and contributing to higher specific surface area. The unique anisotropic structure, high porosity, and stable mechanical properties enable ULASs to deliver a low thermal conductivity of 0.2 W/m/K and large anisotropy in thermal properties, possessing great potential for thermal insulative materials. This sol–gel/freeze‐casting hybrid approach is believed to be extended to different material systems and provide promising potentials in fabricating the porous materials with various functionalities.
Nb/Mn co‐doping enhances the pyroelectric properties of Na0.5Bi4.5Ti4O15 ceramics for infrared detection
Authors: Fan Mingzhi , Cen Fangjie , Gao Ruisi , Pan Yangsheng , Shen Meng , Zhang Haibo , Jiang Shenglin , Li Kanghua , Zhang Guangzu
Published: July 2024

The pyroelectric effect has wide applications in various fields, such as infrared imaging, detection, alarms, and the expanding field of smart homes. The rapid advancement of smart systems, focusing on miniaturization and integration, requires pyroelectric infrared detectors with high pyroelectric coefficients and Curie temperatures to meet the requirements of integrated processes. However, the Curie temperature of commercial lead zirconate titanate is limited to <230°C, urgently looking for a breakthrough. Here, we explore pyroelectricity in Na0.5Bi4.5Ti4O15 (NBT) ceramics, characterized by a high Curie temperature (∼660°C). We systematically examined the crystal structure modifications and defect dipole effects of the Nb/Mn‐co‐doped NBT. The lattice expansion, distortion of the TiO6 octahedra, and structural transformation tendency from the orthorhombic to tetragonal phase facilitate dipole movements with increasing temperature. Furthermore, the Mn and Nb elements result in the formation of MnTi“–VO·· and NbTi·–MnTi” –NbTi· defect dipoles, inducing additional polarization changes in response to temperature variations. Finally, a significantly improved pyroelectric coefficient of 110 µC m2 K–1 and remarkable temperature stability from 25°C to 300°C is achieved in NBTM‐5Nb ceramics. This co‐doping strategy for enhancing pyroelectric performance can be expanded to other systems and substantially contribute to advancing high‐performance materials for infrared detection.
Emergency complications during dermatological, surgical, or cosmetic procedures: A cross‐sectional study among dermatologists
Authors: Kaya Erdogan Hilal , Sahin Tekin Melisa , Agaoglu Esra , Sanal Bas Sema , Acer Ersoy , Saracoglu Zeynep Nurhan , Bilgin Muzaffer
Published: July 2024

Background

Medical emergency complications may occur during dermatological, surgical, and cosmetic procedures.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the frequency of dermatologists who experienced emergency complications as well as their level of knowledge regarding emergencies and basic life support.

Methods

The cross‐sectional descriptive study was conducted online among 240 dermatologists to whom a questionnaire was sent via email and a closed social media group. The survey instrument asked about emergency complications during dermatological, surgical, or cosmetic procedures and the dermatologists' level of knowledge regarding emergencies and basic life support.

Results

Among the dermatologists, 53% reported emergency complications during dermatological and surgical procedures and 43.2% during cosmetic procedures. The most common complications were vasovagal syncope, hypotension/bleeding, and seizures. Emergency complications were more common among specialists, those with more than 15 years of professional experience, those working in their private clinics, and those performing an average of 10–50 dermatological/surgical procedures per week and fewer than 10 cosmetic procedures per week (p < 0.05). The knowledge level of dermatologists was highest among residents, dermatologists with 0–4 years of professional experience, those working in university hospitals, and those who had both theoretical and practical training in basic life support.

Conclusions

This study shows a relatively high frequency of dermatologists who experienced emergency complications during dermatological, surgical, or cosmetic procedures. Although these complications seem to be common; most of them are mild, self‐limiting, and not life‐threatening. Nevertheless, dermatologists should be competent and prepared to intervene in medical emergencies in daily practice.
Identifying barriers and facilitators for the effective diagnosis and provision of primary health care for otitis media from the perspective of carers of Aboriginal children
Authors: Lau Gloria , Walker Roz , Laird Pamela , Lewis Philomena , Kuthubutheen Jafri , Schultz André
Published: July 2024

Aim

To identify the barriers and facilitators for timely detection and optimal management of otitis media (OM) in Aboriginal children in a primary care setting from the perspective of carers of Aboriginal children.

Methods

A qualitative, Aboriginal co‐designed, participatory action research study with interviews and focus groups in a large town in the Kimberley, Western Australia. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research informed stakeholder group identification and interview framework development. Data underwent thematic analysis using NVivo software.

Results

Thirty‐two carers of Aboriginal children participated. Key barriers identified for the detection of OM were limited information about OM provided to carers and carers feeling disempowered to express their concerns. Key facilitators identified were the provision of health information through health promotion and the use of culturally secure resources. Having a culturally secure clinical environment was identified as essential, with Aboriginal Health Workers playing a vital role in clinical care. No barriers to management of OM in primary care were reported. Facilitators included health care practitioners (HCPs) emphasising the importance of completing antibiotic course and the clinic providing necessary medications.

Conclusions

A culturally secure health promotion strategy with health promotion teams, campaigns and resources is needed to increase community awareness of OM signs and symptoms and facilitate appropriate health seeking. It is essential that the local Aboriginal community co‐lead and co‐develop these initiatives to ensure the unique wisdom and knowledge of Aboriginal people are captured. HCPs and the clinic effectively facilitate management of OM by providing medications and emphasising completion of antibiotics.
Development and validation of a standard area diagram set for assessment of anthracnose severity on cucumber leaves
Authors: Conforto Cinthia , Martins Ricardo Brainer , Nicoli Alessandro , Capucho Alexandre Sandri , Duarte Henrique da Silva Silveira , Michereff Sami Jorge
Published: July 2024

Anthracnose, caused by species in the Colletotrichum orbiculare complex, is a major foliar disease in open‐field cucumber farming worldwide. This study aimed to develop and validate a standard area diagram (SAD) set to estimate the severity of anthracnose on cucumber leaves. For this purpose, a SAD set with nine levels of severity (1; 3; 5; 10; 20; 30; 40; 50 and 60%) is proposed. The SAD set was validated by 16 raters with no experience in evaluating plant diseases. Both accuracy and precision improved when the proposed SAD set was employed. The statistical parameters were bias coefficient factor‐Cb (no SAD set = 0.891, with SAD set = 0.982); correlation coefficient‐r (no SAD set = 0.851, with SAD set = 0.941); and Lin's concordance correlation coefficient‐ρc (no SAD set = 0.755, with SAD set = 0.924). In addition, estimates were more reliable: intra‐class correlation coefficient‐ρ (no SAD set = 0.646, with SAD set = 0.887). The SAD set proposed here is a useful tool for improving visual assessments of anthracnose severity on cucumber leaves.
Did 2004 EU expansion matter to new migrants' housing tenure and settlement choices in England?
Authors: Jewell Sarah , Nanda Anupam , Oladiran Olayiwola
Published: July 2024

This paper analyses how migration policy changes affect the housing and location patterns of immigrants in the UK. Using the UK Longitudinal Household Survey, we examine the relationship between the 2004 EU accession as a migration policy change and housing and locational patterns. In addition to confirming the importance of migration policy frameworks, we find that liberalised migration can create a wave of immigrants with a lower propensity for homeownership and may cause the dispersion of new immigrants to locations away from the gateway cities and primary immigrant clusters such as London. The results are robust to several sensitivity tests.
Association between the hypokalaemia index based on area over the serum potassium concentration curve and occurrence of acute kidney injury in patients administered liposomal amphotericin B
Authors: Ueda Takashi , Nakajima Kazuhiko , Ichiki Kaoru , Ishikawa Kaori , Yamada Kumiko , Tsuchida Toshie , Otani Naruhito , Takubo Shingo , Iijima Kosuke , Uchino Motoi , Horio Yuki , Kuwahara Ryuichi , Kimura Takeshi , Murakami Yasushi , Nozaki Yasuhiro , Nakama Soichiro , Miyazaki Yoshitsugu , Takesue Yoshio
Published: July 2024

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) and hypokalaemia are common adverse events after treatment with liposomal amphotericin B (L‐AMB).

Objectives

Because excess potassium (K) leakage occurs during renal tubular injury caused by L‐AMB, measuring the decrease in rate of serum K concentration might be more useful to assess the renal impact of L‐AMB than hypokalaemia identified from a one‐point measurement. The effects of a decrease in K concentration and duration of hypokalaemia on AKI were investigated.

Methods

A ≥ 10% decrease in K concentration from the reference concentration within a 7‐day timeframe was evaluated. The hypokalaemia index, which combines the duration of K concentration lower than the reference and a marked low K concentration, was calculated from the area over the concentration curve.

Results

Eighty‐six patients were included in the study. The incidences of AKI and decrease in K concentration were 36.0% and 63.9%, respectively. Of patients who developed both adverse events, a decrease in K concentration occurred first in 22 of 26 patients, followed by AKI 7 days later. Hypokalaemia did not increase AKI risk whereas a decrease in K concentration was an independent risk factor for AKI. The hypokalaemia index in patients with AKI was significantly higher than those without AKI (5.35 vs. 2.50 points, p = 0.002), and ≥3.45 points was a significant predictor for AKI.

Conclusion

A ≥ 10% decrease in the K concentration was a significant factor for AKI in patients receiving L‐AMB therapy. In such patients, dose reduction or alternative antifungals could be considered based on the hypokalaemia index.
Skin tears in older patients in intensive care units: A multicentre point prevalence study
Authors: Yuceler Kacmaz Hatice , Kahraman Hilal , Topal Hancer Ayşe , Uzgor Füsun , Gur Sevgi , Kalkan Nevra , Ceyhan Ozlem , Yilmaz Meryem , Temel Sahin
Published: July 2024

Background

With the ageing of the global population, it is predicted that the population of older adult patients in hospitals and intensive care units (ICUs) will increase. Because of health conditions, care practices and ageing‐related skin changes, older adult ICU patients are prone to skin integrity problems, including skin tears (STs).

Aim

To determine the prevalence of STs and associated factors in older patients hospitalized in ICUs.

Study Design

The study is a regional, multicentre, point prevalence study conducted in five centres in the five largest cities in terms of population in the Central Anatolia Region of Türkiye. Data were collected simultaneously in each centre on the same day. The list of patients hospitalized in the ICUs on the day of data collection was drawn up, and 200 patients who were 65 years of age or older, were hospitalized in ICUs and agreed to participate in the research were included. The researchers formed an “ST chart” to record patient demographic characteristics, clinical variables and skin assessment.

Results

STs were detected in 14.5% of patients in ICUs, with 72.5% of them having stage 1 ST. A significant relationship was found between individuals' average body mass index (BMI) (p = .043), age (p = .014), length of stay in the ICU (p = .004) and having ST. There was also a statistically significant relationship between skin temperature (p = .002), skin turgor (p = .001) and ST. More STs were observed in patients with cold skin and low turgor. The prevalence of ST was higher in individuals with a history of ST. Additionally, there was a statistically significant relationship between consciousness (p = .014), incontinence (p = .006), the Braden score (p = .004), the Itaki fall risk score (p = .006) and ST.

Conclusions

In this multicentre point prevalence study, the prevalence of ST in older patients in ICUs was 14.5%, and many factors associated with ST have been identified.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Given the insufficient information and attention to STs in older adults, the study emphasizes the importance of addressing STs. The impact of STs includes increased treatment costs, length of stay and risk of complications. Therefore, understanding the global extent of STs in ICUs and developing effective interventions for prevention and management are crucial.
Inadequate mentoring in undergraduate research experiences: Exploring protective factors
Authors: Morales Danielle X. , Grineski Sara E. , Collins Timothy W.
Published: July 2024

This study examines instances of negative mentoring among undergraduate researchers within STEM education, and specifically, the common yet subtle issue of inadequate mentoring characterized by a faculty mentor's failure to provide their mentee with adequate research, educational, career‐related, or emotional support. Using data from the Mentor‐Relate survey of 514 participants in the National Science Foundation Research Experiences for Undergraduates program, we identify prevalent patterns of inadequate mentoring and examine protective factors against it. Results indicate that inadequate research support is the least prevalent form, while inadequate educational and career guidance is more common, and inadequate emotional support is the most prevalent. Enhanced faculty mentoring skills emerge as a protective factor, with culturally responsive mentoring and gender concordance also playing significant protective roles. Less hierarchical mentoring structures, such as multiple faculty mentors, offer better emotional support. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive mentor training and culturally sensitive practices to mitigate inadequate mentoring in undergraduate research experiences. By promoting inclusive and supportive mentoring environments, institutions can maximize the transformative potential of undergraduate research experiences for all participants.