bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anuran occupancy varies with stream characteristics and flow across Arizona wilderness areas
Authors: Huck Margaret A. , Bateman Heather L. , de Albuquerque Fábio Suzart , Lewis Jesse S.
Published: September 2024

Riparian ecosystems comprise less than 2% of the landscape in the arid western United States, yet they provide habitat and resources to over half of arid‐land wildlife species, including a broad diversity of anurans (frogs and toads). Despite this, relatively few studies describe riparian herpetofaunal communities in the Southwest, and remote wilderness areas are particularly undersurveyed.

We employed passive acoustic monitoring to capture anuran advertisement calls in wilderness area tributaries of the Verde River, Arizona, USA. In the spring and summer of 2021 and 2022, 13–29 autonomous recording units (ARUs) were deployed along perennial, intermittent and ephemeral tributary stream reaches. We characterized sites based on the per cent of pool, riffle, run and side channel habitat within 100 m of each ARU and quantified substrate, wetted channel width and canopy cover. To relate anuran occupancy to environmental and hydrological variables, we evaluated acoustic detection data using single‐species, single‐season occupancy models.

Four species were detected in this study: canyon treefrog (Hyla arenicolor), red‐spotted toad (Anaxyrus punctatus), Woodhouse's toad (Anaxyrus woodhousii) and non‐native American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus), with canyon treefrog being the most ubiquitous species observed. Vocal activity of canyon treefrog was higher at perennial and intermittent sites compared to ephemeral sites, and the presence of pools was most strongly associated with canyon treefrog occupancy.

Persistent, slow‐moving water best predicted the presence of breeding canyon treefrogs. Notably, this study did not detect several species with historical records in the middle Verde River catchment, including Arizona toad (Anaxyrus microscaphus) and northern leopard frog (Lithobates pipiens).

Given climate change‐related flow declines and intensifying demands for water in arid lands globally, maintaining stream flows that provide consistent and suitable hydroregimes for anuran breeding and larval development is of increasing importance. Determining habitat use and flow regimes necessary to support anuran populations can aid in prioritization of conservation actions related to water management and predict how changes in water availability may impact stream‐breeding anurans.
Efficacy of laser adjuvant therapy in the management of post‐operative endodontic pain: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Luo Zhiqiang , He Yiquan , Wu Hongkun , Li Yuxuan , Shen Leyao , Cheng Lei , Zhou Xuedong , He Libang , Chen Jing
Published: September 2024

Background

Postoperative endodontic pain (PEP) is crucial in clinical practice. Recently, the effects of various laser adjuvant therapies in endodontic treatments have been widely evaluated. However, as a virtually side‐effect‐free treatment, its effect on postoperative pain management during endodontic treatment remains controversial.

Objectives

This review aimed to compare the efficacy of laser adjuvant therapy for pain management after endodontic treatment.

Method

The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science databases were systematically searched for articles published until 12 February 2023. The risk of bias in the included studies was evaluated based on the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias assessment tool. Data on continuous outcomes of visual analogue scale pain scores are expressed as standard mean difference (SMD) and dichotomous outcomes of pain prevalence as relative risk (RR).

Results

We included 22 studies, of which 15 enrolled 892 patients with visual analogue scale pain scores and 7 enrolled 422 patients with pain prevalence. Of the 22 studies, seven studies had a low risk of bias, 10 had a moderate risk of bias and 5 had a high risk of bias. For pain level, the pooled outcomes indicated reduced pain scores in all laser adjuvant therapy, including low‐level laser therapy (SMD = −0.86 [95% CI: −1.16, −0.55] in 24 h and SMD = −0.64 [95% CI: −0.84, −0.43] in 48 h), diode laser therapy (SMD = −0.27 [95% CI: −0.50, −0.04] in 48 h) and photodynamic therapy (SMD = −1.12 [95% CI: −2.18, −0.05] in 24 h). For postoperative pain incidence, a significant correlation was observed with reduced pain incidence rates in the photodynamic therapy group (pooled RR = 0.47 [95% CI: 0.31, 0.72]) but not in the low‐level laser therapy group (RR = 0.89 [95% CI: 0.30, 2.70] at 12 h and RR = 0.57 [95% CI: 0.09, 3.72] at 24 h).

Conclusions

High‐quality evidence suggests that laser adjuvant therapies such as low‐level laser therapy, diode laser therapy and photodynamic therapy have a positive impact on reducing postoperative endodontic pain intensity. However, the differences in PEP management effects between laser therapies are unknown, and no significant differences were observed among the subgroups.

Registration

CRD 42023402872 (PROSPERO).
Exploring the potential of germination and ozone treatment to improve the nutritional profile and functional properties of amaranth grains
Authors: Awasthi Tamanna , Singh Narpinder
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of germination and ozone treatment on the nutritional and bioactive properties of grains of two amaranth varieties. The study focused on the proximate composition, antioxidant activity, phenolic and flavonoid content, and amino acid profile of untreated and treated grains of two amaranth varieties. Germination significantly increased the protein content by 18.5%, crude fibre by 25.7%, and total phenolic content by 34.2% compared to the control. Ozone treatment further enhanced these properties, with a notable increase in antioxidant activity by 41.8% and total flavonoid content by 29.6%. The amino acid profile analysis revealed a significant rise in essential amino acids, particularly lysine, which increased by 22.4% following the combined treatment. These findings suggested that the combined application of germination and ozone treatment significantly enhances the nutritional quality and bioactive properties of amaranth, making it a superior ingredient for functional food products. The results indicated that these processes could be effectively utilised to boost the health benefits of amaranth, contributing to the development of nutrient‐rich food products.
Fish milt and roe‐derived functional proteins and peptides: composition, bioactivities, and applications
Authors: Choung Woo‐Jae , Shahriar Sagarika , Kwon Jung Yeon
Published: September 2024

An expanding list of marine species has been identified and evaluated for their potential bioactivity and nutritional values. Most attention is directed toward utilising protein‐rich by‐products of fish processing for their bioactive functionalities, which can aid in minimising waste and add value to underutilised resources. Milt and roe, the reproductive constituents of fish, are known to contain a high concentration of nutritional content. Bioactive peptides derived from these constituents have shown several biological activities including antihypertensive, antibacterial, anticoagulant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐obesity, anti‐cancer, and antioxidant activities. These peptides are commonly extracted by enzymatic hydrolysis and purified by different chromatographic methods according to their mass, molecular size, and composition. This review discusses the approaches to produce, purify, and characterise the protein hydrolysates from fish milt and roe and delves into the compositions of the nutraceutical compounds derived from milt and roe. The review also highlights the bioactive properties of the milt and roe‐derived peptides that can have potential applications in the food, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmeceutical industries.
Gendered pathways: The relationship between portable skills from fields of study and labor market outcomes in Japan
Authors: Lee Hansol
Published: September 2024

While social scientists have increasingly focused on the relationship between fields of study and labor market outcomes, our understanding of how men and women differ in the utilization of college major skills at work and how such differences are linked to labor market outcomes remains limited. To fill this gap, I use nationally representative cross‐sectional data from Japan to examine how fields that offer portable skills, which are beneficial across different employers, are related to earnings and employment likelihood. Results from ordinary least squares regression and Heckman two‐stage models indicate that fields offering portable skills, such as medicine and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), have a positive association with earnings for both genders. Moreover, results from linear probability models suggest that law/business, medicine, and STEM have a positive relationship with employment status among women. The relationship is stronger for women than men, showing no differences between mothers with young children (0–5 years) and nonmothers. These findings indicate that acquiring portable skills through education makes women's careers more compatible with their family responsibilities. Considering the increasing salience of fields of study in the world of work, these findings provide important insights into the interplay between gender, higher education, and labor market stratification in Japan.
The significance of crisis identification using community‐driven model
Authors: Choi Clara Jung Won , Kim Yun Min
Published: September 2024

While the identification of crisis situations has been one of the major social issues in Korea, the approach to addressing this issue is biased toward a government‐centric system, and consequently, there is limited research exploring the significance of a community‐driven crisis identification model. Focus group interviews were conducted among local volunteers and project managers actively engaged in the “Good Neighbors Project.” The exploration of the significance of community‐driven crisis identification, the challenges associated, and strategies to strengthen the community‐driven crisis identification model led to the identification of a total of eight sub‐themes. Based on the findings, to effectively identify individuals and families in crisis within the local community, it is necessary to expand the concept of crisis beyond its definition within the public sector, increase opportunities to communicate the significance of community‐driven crisis identification involving volunteers from the local community, and emphasize the need to enhance volunteers' competence.
Progestogen hypersensitivity: successful use of progesterone desensitisation and omalizumab to facilitate in vitro fertilisation
Authors: Xu Gary , Yuson Ramon , Rafferty Martina , Thai Thuy L. , Limaye Sandhya
Published: September 2024

Hypersensitivity to exogenous or endogenous progesterone presents with a variety of clinical, usually cutaneous, manifestations. The condition can occur at any age during the reproductive years, causes debilitating symptoms and can impact the use of exogenous hormones. Management strategies include symptom control or hormonal manipulation via desensitisation. Strategic testing confirms the diagnosis, while targeted intervention can significantly and positively impact quality of life and further childbearing.
Regulation of immune responses to food by commensal microbes
Authors: Light Samuel H. , Nagler Cathryn R.
Published: September 2024

The increasing prevalence of immune‐mediated non‐communicable chronic diseases, such as food allergies, has prompted a deeper investigation into the role of the gut microbiome in modulating immune responses. Here, we explore the complex interactions between commensal microbes and the host immune system, highlighting the critical role of gut bacteria in maintaining immune homeostasis. We examine how modern lifestyle practices and environmental factors have disrupted co‐evolved host–microbe interactions and discuss how changes in microbiome composition impact epithelial barrier function, responses to food allergens, and susceptibility to allergic diseases. Finally, we examine the potential of bioengineered microbiome‐based therapies, and live biotherapeutic products, for reestablishing immune homeostasis to prevent or treat food allergies.
Synthesis mechanism and characterization of tantalum boride powder prepared by boron/carbothermal reduction
Authors: Tian Yu , Guo Wei‐Ming , Liu Yi , Tong Si‐Yuan , Huang Zi‐Jian , Lin Hua‐Tay
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the synthesis mechanism of tantalum boride (TaB2) powder via the boron/carbothermal reduction method, based on thermodynamic calculations and experimental results. The insufficient presence of the intermediate product B2O3 leads to the emergence of TaC and Ta3B4, while in the presence of a sufficient boron source in the reaction system, the primary products formed include TaB2, TaC, and B2O3, with TaC subsequently reacting with B2O3 and carbon to yield TaB2. TaB2 powder was successfully synthesized at 1500°C with the addition of an excess of 20 wt% B4C. The particle size of the powder was approximately 298 nm, and the oxygen content and carbon content in the powder were 0.6 and 0.1 wt.%, respectively.
Transparent rare earth‐doped gallium oxide ceramics with oriented microstructure
Authors: Li Jiao , Zhang Guangran , Wu Yiquan
Published: September 2024

Gallium oxide (Ga2O3) has attracted much attention due to its promising applications in optical and electronic devices, while it is difficult to fabricate high‐quality Ga2O3 transparent ceramics because of the non‐cubic crystal structure. In this work, fully densified undoped and rare earth (RE = Tb, Dy. Er)‐doped Ga2O3 transparent ceramics were successfully fabricated by using spark plasma sintering (SPS) and co‐precipitated ceramic powders. Both the powders and ceramics showed pure monoclinic β‐ Ga2O3 crystal structure and unique orientation. After sintering by SPS for 30 min, all the ceramics reached a relative density higher than 99.21%. The total transmittance of RE‐doped Ga2O3 transparent ceramics ranges from 60% to 69% originating from the oriented and dense microstructures. The photoluminescence spectra and fluorescence lifetime of RE‐doped Ga2O3 transparent ceramics confirm characteristics of energy transfers corresponding to Tb3+, Dy3+, or Er3+ ions in the visible and NIR spectral region. This study demonstrates that oriented RE‐doped Ga2O3 transparent ceramics have great potential to be used in various optical applications.
Synthesis of pyrochlore Sr2Ta2O7 via continuous‐flow supercritical hydrothermal approach
Authors: Hayashi Hiroyuki , Matsukuma Yuki , Murakami Kazunori , Tanaka Isao
Published: September 2024

This study presents the successful synthesis of Sr2Ta2O7 with a pyrochlore crystal structure, which was previously unreported. Traditionally, Sr2Ta2O7 is synthesized in an orthorhombic layered perovskite‐type structure using traditional solid‐state reaction and batch‐type subcritical hydrothermal methods. Here, we utilize a continuous‐flow supercritical hydrothermal method, a technique primarily applied for nanoparticle synthesis and minimally explored for the synthesis of metastable crystals. Through detailed evaluations employing X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, we confirmed the synthesis of the pyrochlore phase, characterized by particles with a diameter of less than 100 nm, synthesized at 633 K. Notably, the synthesized pyrochlore structure demonstrated remarkable stability, even after thermal treatment at 773 K for 1 h. Pyrochlore Sr2Ta2O7 stands out as a rare exception to the traditional tolerance factor approach among 278 known A2B2O7 compositions. Systematic evaluation of formation energies through first‐principles calculations revealed that the pyrochlore Sr2Ta2O7 synthesized in this study is located 0.06 eV/atom above the convex hull. This achievement underscores the potential of the continuous‐flow supercritical hydrothermal method in automating the exploration and discovery of novel crystal structures, suggesting a systematic pathway for advancing the field of material synthesis.
Preparation and structure of titanium‐containing pyrophosphate glasses prepared using the liquid‐phase method
Authors: Lee Sungho , Shiraki Shota , Takahashi Minori , Obata Akiko , Sakurai Makoto , Nagata Fukue
Published: September 2024

Phosphate invert glasses (PIGs) exhibit excellent biocompatibility because of their high chemical durability and controlled ion releasability. PIGs are composed of short phosphate units such as ortho‐ and pyrophosphate. This structure makes it difficult to obtain clear glass using the melt‐quenching method. Our previous work reported that intermediate oxides (such as TiO2 and Nb2O5)‐containing PIGs exhibit good glass‐forming ability and ion dissolution controllability. This work used a liquid‐phase method to prepare PIGs at room temperature and pressure. Furthermore, TiO2 was used to control ion releasability for biomedical applications. Titanium‐containing PIGs were successfully prepared using a liquid‐phase method. Pyrophosphate and titania formed P‐O‐Ti bonds with an increasing TiO2 content in the glass, forming chain‐like structural units such as (‐O‐P‐O‐P‐O‐Ti‐O‐)n. The number of chain‐like structures increased with an increasing TiO2 content in the glass, improving the chemical durability. Hence, the ion releasability of titanium‐containing PIGs prepared using the liquid‐phase method can be controlled by the glass structure. Additionally, the PIGs exhibited good cell viability. Therefore, the PIGs are candidates for carriers of therapeutic inorganic ions for biomedical applications.
Tailoring charge transport in BaTiO3 crystals through dislocation engineering
Authors: Sayyadi‐Shahraki Ahmad , Frömling Till , Zhuo Fangping
Published: September 2024

Dislocations in oxide ceramics significantly influence their physical properties by creating substantial local strain fields, new electronic states, and space‐charge layers. In this study, we investigated the effects of mechanically introduced dislocations on the electrical conductivity of BaTiO3 single crystals. High‐temperature plastic deformation was employed to introduce a high dislocation density with a {100}〈100〉 slip system. Impedance measurements revealed a significant anisotropy in the conductivity due to the presence of oriented dislocation structures. The crystals with dislocation lines aligned parallel to the measurement axis ([001] crystallographic direction) exhibited 16‐fold higher conductivity compared to those measured across the dislocations. Compared to the pristine crystals, this means an increase in conductivity when the measurements were carried out parallel to dislocation lines and a decrease in perpendicular measurements. Our study demonstrates that not only ferroelectric properties but also charge transport can be modified by dislocation introduction in BaTiO3.
The Effects of Workplace Spirituality and Self‐Efficacy on Quality of Life Among Cancer Survivors: Empirical Quantitative Research
Authors: Kang Seulgi , Kim Yoonjung , Shin Hyeji
Published: September 2024

Aims

To investigate the impact of workplace spirituality and self‐efficacy (SE) on cancer survivors' quality of life (QOL) and develop nursing interventions.

Design

Descriptive survey.

Methods

Participants were cancer survivors treated at Chung‐Ang hospital in Seoul. They were administered a questionnaire covering general and clinical characteristics, workplace spirituality, SE and QOL. Data were analysed using hierarchical multiple regression analyses.

Results

Workplace spirituality, SE and QOL were positively correlated. Higher education level, work in the health/medical sector, higher monthly income, undetermined cancer stage or not currently undergoing cancer treatment and absence of physical impairments or comorbidities due to cancer influenced QOL. Regression analysis revealed that SE enhanced QOL.

Conclusion

Workplace spirituality and SE correlated with QOL. Notably, SE actively enhanced QOL by providing inner strength regardless of the type of treatment or its physical damage.

Implications for the Profession

The findings have practical implications for the development of nursing interventions that aim to boost the confidence and positive assurance of employed cancer survivors in managing their condition and to enhance QOL.

Impact

Problem addressed: Understanding the impact of workplace spirituality and SE on cancer survivors' QOL. Main findings: Positive correlations between workplace spirituality, SE and QOL; SE as a primary determinant of QOL. Impact location and population: Relevant to cancer patients managing treatment and work responsibilities, contributing to improved QOL.

Reporting Method

Adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No contribution.

Trial and Protocol Registration

Not applicable.
First record of the rare tubeshoulder Holtbyrnia anomalaKrefft 1980 (Teleostei, Platytroctidae) in the southwest Atlantic
Authors: Garcia Lucas C. , de Melo Marcelo R. S. , Moreira Cristiano R.
Published: September 2024

Holtbyrnia anomala is a bathypelagic platytroctid widely distributed in the Atlantic Ocean. In this contribution, we report, for the first time, the occurrence of this species in the tropical southwest Atlantic. A single specimen was collected in 2000 on the continental slope off Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at an average depth of 1158 m. This report also represents the first record of Holtbyrnia anomala in the Brazilian Economic Exclusive Zone.
Bioinformatics and experimental validation were combined to explore lactylation‐related biomarkers in HBV‐associated acute liver failure
Authors: Pei Hao , Chen Yue‐qiao , Wu Feng‐lan , Zhang Yan‐yan , Zhang Xue , Li Jian‐yu , Pan Li‐yi , Chen Yu , Huang Yu‐wen
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

Currently, hepatitis B virus‐related acute liver failure (HBV‐ALF) has limited treatment options. Studies have shown that histone lactylation plays a role in the progression of liver‐related diseases. Therefore, it is essential to explore lactylation‐related gene (LRGs) biomarkers in HBV‐ALF to provide new information for the treatment of HBV‐ALF.

Methods

Two HBV‐ALF‐related datasets (GSE38941 and GSE14668) and 65 LRGs were used. First, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were derived from differential expression analysis, the key module genes from weighted gene co‐expression network analysis; and LRGs were used to intersect to obtain the candidate genes. Subsequently, the feature genes obtained from least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis and support vector machine analysis were intersected to obtain the candidate key genes. Among them, genes with consistent and significant expression trends in both GSE38941 and GSE14668 were used as biomarkers. Subsequently, biomarkers were analyzed for functional enrichment, immune infiltration, and sensitive drug prediction.

Results

In this study, five candidate genes (PIGM, PIGA, EGR1, PIGK, and PIGL) were identified by intersecting 6461 DEGs and 2496 key module genes with 65 LRGs. We then screened four candidate key genes from the machine learning algorithm, among which PIGM and PIGA were considered biomarkers in HBV‐ALF. Moreover, the results of enrichment analysis showed that the significant enrichment signaling pathways for biomarkers included allograft rejection and valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation. Thereafter, 11 immune cells differed significantly between groups, with resting memory CD4+ T cells having the strongest positive correlation with biomarkers. Methylphenidate hydrochloride is a potential therapeutic drug for PIGM.

Conclusion

Two genes, PIGM and PIGA, were identified as biomarkers related to LRGs in HBV‐ALF, providing a basis for understanding HBV‐ALF pathogenesis.
Small bowel neuroendocrine tumors: Unique features and low lethality compared with small bowel adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Zhen , Xu Haibin , Li Luan , Leng Kaiming , Shi Guangjun
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

Population‐based studies comparing clinical characteristics and survival disparities between patients with small bowel adenocarcinoma (SBA) and small bowel neuroendocrine tumors (SBNETs) in the United States are limited.

Methods

Data for patients with SBA or SBNETs, obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database for the years between 2000 and 2018 were analyzed.

Results

Between 2000 and 2018, the age‐adjusted incidence of SBA experienced a marginal increase whereas SBNETs demonstrated a significant increase, emerging as the predominant subtype of small bowel cancer (SBC). Diagnoses peaked at ages 65–69 years for SBA and 60–64 years for SBNETs, with the latter exhibiting a heightened age‐specific incidence and maintaining equilibrium in gender distribution. Clinicopathologic disparities revealed SBA's duodenal predilection, larger tumor size, and advanced stages, contrasting with SBNETs' ileal predilection, early‐stage presentation, and superior outcomes. SBNETs patients underwent surgery more frequently but received less chemotherapy and radiation than SBA patients. Factors intricately correlated with a diagnosis of SBNETs included female gender, White race, advanced age, marital status, recent diagnoses, superior tumor differentiation, smaller size, distal location, and early‐stage presentation. Survival analysis unveiled a remarkable 79% reduction in the mortality risk for SBNETs compared with SBA. Subgroup analysis further confirmed the consistently favorable survival advantages of SBNETs, highlighting the clinical relevance of histological classification in prognostication.

Conclusion

Compared with SBA, SBNETs exhibited distinctive clinicopathological features characterized by a higher inclination toward low‐grade and early‐stage manifestations, thereby contributing to superior survival outcomes.
‘It was hell on earth’: perspectives of people living with celiac disease on diagnostic delay
Authors: Fjorback Sofia Sif Overby , Eskildsen Fiona Ryom , Kårhus Line Lund , Linneberg Allan , Lund Anna Fowler , Schiøtz Michaela Louise , Grew Julie
Published: September 2024

Background

Celiac disease (CD) is underdiagnosed and associated with diagnostic delays. This has long‐term consequences for the health and well‐being of people living with the condition. Little is known about the qualitative configurations of the assessment processes of people living with CD.

Methods

Using a thematic network analysis of 24 in‐depth interviews, this study explored the experiences of people living with CD related to their assessment processes leading to being diagnosed.

Results

A significant diagnostic delay (up to 26 years) was evident in many interviews. Factors contributing to diagnostic delay included limited knowledge about CD among general practitioners (GP) and in the general population, categorisations of symptoms as ‘typical’ or ‘atypical’ and psychosomatic explanations of symptoms. Diagnostic delay resulted in (1) decreased psychological well‐being due to severe symptoms, changes in self‐perception and self‐blame; (2) decreased physiological well‐being due to comorbidities; and (3) mistrust in the healthcare system, leading to an increase in informants' responsibility for expediting their assessment processes. This suggested the presence of a neoliberal tendency because informants felt they were primarily responsible for their assessment processes.

Conclusions

We encourage the implementation of initiatives to increase awareness of CD among GPs as well as more consistent and frequent use of the screening guideline due to variations in its clinical presentation. Increased awareness and consistency could reduce variations in assessment processes given GPs' varying knowledge about the condition.
Quality of birth care and risk factors of length of stay after birth: A machine learning approach
Authors: Cinaroglu Songul , Saylan Busra
Published: September 2024

Aim

Length of stay (LOS) is an outcome measure and is assumed to be related to quality. The objective of this study is to examine the quality of birth care and risk factors associated with LOS after birth.

Methods

A nationwide population‐based Turkish Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS) was used for the year 2018. A total of 1849 women ages 15–49 were included. Explanatory factor analysis and machine learning predictors such as Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Neural Network, k‐Nearest Neighbor, and Naïve Bayes were used to identify the quality of birth care and risk factors associated with LOS after birth.

Results

As a result of the explanatory factor analysis, factor structures of quality of birth care, antenatal check‐ups and supplements, and risk factors associated with birth were obtained using the Categorical Component Analysis method. The type of delivery, place of delivery, age, and type of place, which are under the quality of birth care, and risk factors associated with birth factors were found to be the variables that had the highest impact on LOS estimation. Random forest (Accuracy = 0.5789), support vector machine (radial) (Accuracy = 0.5766), and neural network (Accuracy = 0.5750) models outperformed, respectively.

Conclusion

Type of delivery which is an indicator of quality of birth care is a strong predictor of LOS after birth according to the Random Forest model. We demonstrated that machine learning techniques offer precise LOS prediction after birth. Further studies assessing the effect of quality of birth care on predicting LOS at birth would be beneficial.
Prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting after cesarean delivery under neuraxial anesthesia and postpartum analgesia in Japan: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sakamaki Daisuke , Shiko Yuki , Ikeda Yusuke , Watanabe Kaede , Noguchi Shohei , Kawasaki Yohei , Mazda Yusuke
Published: September 2024

Aims

This study aims to investigate the clinical practice of physicians working in obstetric setting toward postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in parturients undergoing cesarean delivery (CD) with neuraxial anesthesia.

Methods

We conducted this online survey to all active members of the Japan Society of Obstetric Anesthesiology and Perinatology (JSOAP), where leads academic society in obstetric anesthesia in Japan. The questionnaire was developed using the Delphi method. The survey included questions about routine practices for PONV prevention, the use of neuraxial opioids, optimal practices, and perceived obstacles. The email sent three times every 2 weeks as a reminder.

Results

A total of 1046 e‐mails were sent, and 307 JSOAP members responded to the survey (29.3%). More than half of responders (62.7%) used neuraxial opioids with intrathecal morphine being the most frequent. They had a higher rate of multimodal PONV prophylaxis compared with who did not use neuraxial opioids for postoperative analgesia (19.9% vs 6.7%). Metoclopramide was the commonest medication for PONV prevention, and there was a significant difference in the use of 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonists (19.9% vs. 8.6%, p = 0.012). We observed that 80% of physicians reported the routine administration of prophylaxis for PONV for CD. Among these, 20% indicated the use of two or more agents. Conversely, in the cohort not administering neuraxial opioids, only 6.7% reported the use of two or more agents.

Conclusion

The online survey showed that the physicians using neuraxial opioids for CD had a higher proportion of multimodal PONV management involving two or more agents.
Tadalafil use is associated with a lower incidence of Type 2 diabetes in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Takayama Atsushi , Yoshida Satomi , Kawakami Koji
Published: September 2024

Background

Tadalafil, commonly prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), may benefit patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) for glycemic markers and complications. However, the association between the long‐term use of tadalafil and the incidence of T2DM has not been investigated.

Methods

We emulated a target trial of tadalafil use (5 mg/day) and the risk of T2DM using a population‐based claims database in Japan. Patients who initiated tadalafil or alpha‐blockers for BPH and had no history of diabetes diagnosis, no dispensing of glucose‐lowering drugs, and no history of hemoglobin A1c levels of ≥6.5% (47–48 mmol/mol) were included. The primary outcome was the incidence of T2DM. Pooled logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and 5‐year cumulative incidence differences (CIDs).

Results

A total of 5180 participants initiated tadalafil treatment and were compared with 20,049 patients who initiated alpha‐blockers. The median follow‐up time for each arm was 27.2 months (interquartile range [IQR], 12.0–47.9) in tadalafil users and 31.3 months (IQR, 13.7–57.2) in alpha‐blocker users. The incidence rates of T2DM in tadalafil and alpha‐blocker users were 5.4 (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.0–7.2) and 8.8 (95% CI, 7.8–9.8) per 1000‐person years, respectively. Initiation of tadalafil was associated with a reduced risk of T2DM (RR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.39–0.62; 5‐year CID, −0.031; 95% CI, −0.040 to −0.019).

Conclusion

The incidence of T2DM was lower in men with BPH treated with tadalafil than in those treated with alpha‐blockers. Thus, tadalafil may be more beneficial than alpha‐blockers in preventing T2DM.
Families with more than one trans person: Investments and divestments in cisnormativity
Authors: Riggs Damien W. , Skelton Salem , Katz‐Wise Sabra L. , Sansfaçon Annie Pullen , Arora Manvi
Published: September 2024

Objective

To examine how having more than one trans person in a family facilitates investments in or divestments from cisnormativity.

Background

While there is now a robust body of literature on trans people's experiences with cisgender family members and vice versa, largely missing has been a focus on families where more than one person in the family is trans.

Method

This paper focuses on a subsample of 10 families from a large international qualitative longitudinal study conducted across six countries, focused on trans young people and their families. The paper draws on interviews conducted in 2022 and 2023 with families in which more than one family member was trans. Transcribed interviews were analyzed thematically.

Results

The themes developed indicate that while for some families having multiple trans family members may mean that some cisgender family members invest further in cisnormativity, for other family members the existence of multiple trans family members may encourage divestments from cisnormativity, to the benefit of trans young people. Specifically, themes focus on multiple trans family members highlighting cisnormativity, and conversely, multiple trans family members indicating likelihood of support and offering a safe haven.

Implications

The paper concludes by emphasizing that while encouraging divestments from cisnormativity should not be the work of trans people, it is nonetheless important that research continues to investigate the experiences of families in which more than one person is trans.
Business, Conflict, and Peace: A Systematic Literature Review and Conceptual Framework
Authors: Joseph Jay , Maon François , Uribe‐Jaramillo Maria Teresa , Katsos John E. , Lindgreen Adam
Published: September 2024

There is growing recognition that business activity can promote peacebuilding, yet contradictory claims have emerged about company roles in peace and conflict. The research field of business and peace has focused on this issue, as have scholars in related fields like political science, economics, law, and ethics. This has led to definitional variations, alongside unit and level of analysis differences, which generate contradictory claims that hamper future research on this critical topic. To reconcile extant research around companies and their place in peacebuilding scholarship, we undertake an organizational‐level examination of the field, cataloguing the research by scholars across disciplines through a systematic review of 215 publications. Our review maps the known ways by which businesses can engage in peacebuilding, while demonstrating how organizations exercise their agency to create heterogenous effects on peace and conflict. Our analysis highlights the need for businesses to advance peace‐positive ends across a range of activities to reduce the conflict‐causing effects of business. By showing that businesses, intentionally or not, create peace or conflict through their activities, this article issues a call to action for scholars and decision‐makers to advance knowledge concerning peacebuilding organizations.
Shrinking suitable habitat of a sub‐Arctic foundation kelp under future climate scenarios
Authors: Li Huiru , Qu Junmei , Zhang Zhixin , Kang Eun Ju , Edwards Matthew S. , Kim Ju‐Hyoung
Published: September 2024

Climate change has profound effects on the distribution of kelp forests in the Arctic and sub‐Arctic. However, studies on the responses of kelps to climate change, particularly along the sub‐Arctic regions of the Alaska coast, are limited. Eualaria fistulosa is a foundational kelp species in the Aleutian Islands, with an east–west distribution that extends from Japan to southern southwest Alaska. In this study, we utilized a species distribution model (SDM) to explore changes in the future habitat suitability of E. fistulosa under contrasting Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) scenarios. Our model exhibited relatively high predictive performance, validating our SDM predictions. Notably, the SDM results indicate that minimum sea surface temperature, annual range in sea surface temperatures, and annual mean current velocities are the three most important predictor variables determining E. fistulosa's distribution. Furthermore, the projected geographic distribution of Eualaria is generally consistent with its observed occurrence records. However, under high emission scenarios (SSP5‐8.5), E. fistulosa is predicted to contract its distribution range by 9.0% by 2100, with widespread disappearance along the southeast Alaskan coast and limited northward migration to Kamchatka Krai in Russia and Bristol Bay in Alaska. These findings contribute valuable insights for conservation strategies via addressing climate‐induced alterations in sub‐Arctic kelp distribution.
The effects of alternate‐day fasting on sleep and physical activity in poor sleeping adults: A randomized control trial
Authors: Deru Landon S. , Jacobsen Cameron G. , Gipson Elizabeth Z. , Graves Parker G. , Stevens Andrew J. , Duncan Garrett B. , Christensen William F. , Bailey Bruce W.
Published: September 2024

Utilizing a randomized control design, 42 healthy adults (22.5 ± 2.8 years) participated in alternate‐day modified fasting over a 12‐day treatment period. Assessments of sleep included sleep time, efficiency, latency and wake after sleep onset, and assessments of physical activity included steps, energy expenditure, sedentary time, time spent in light physical activity and time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous activity. Additional measurements included body composition and mood. The alternate‐day modified fasting group consumed 25.8% ± 0.3% fewer calories compared with the control group (p = 0.03). There were no differences between groups for change in body mass index (p = 0.87), total fat mass (p = 0.91) or total lean mass (p = 0.88). Daily energy expenditure did not differ between groups (p = 0.11). On fast days, participants spent 34.5 ± 12.7 more minutes sedentary (p = 0.01), took 1100 ± 362 fewer steps (p < 0.01), and engaged in 27.2 ± 8.4 fewer minutes of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (p = 0.00) compared with non‐fasting days. Sleep duration, efficiency, latency or wake after sleep onset were not different between conditions (p = 0.92, p = 0.10, p = 0.09 and p = 0.66, respectively). We conclude that alternate‐day modified fasting does not alter sleep time, efficiency, latency or wake after sleep onset in people reporting poor sleep quality, and does not alter overall physical activity. Although average daily physical activity is not altered, fasting in this manner does tend to result in more sedentary time and less physical activity with compensation on non‐fasting days.
Effect of Age on the Pharmacokinetics of Marbofloxacin Following Intravenous Administration in Calves
Authors: Corum Orhan , Yuksel Murat , Coskun Devran , Durna Corum Duygu , Kartal Serafettin , Cellat Mustafa , Uney Kamil
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics of marbofloxacin after intravenous (IV) administration of a single dose of 10 mg/kg to calves of different ages. The study was carried on 1‐ (n = 6), 2‐ (n = 6), and 4‐month‐old (n = 6) Montofon calves. Plasma concentrations of marbofloxacin were measured using HPLC, and pharmacokinetic data were calculated by non‐compartmental analysis. The elimination half‐life (t
1/2ʎz
), volume of distribution at steady state (V
dss), total clearance (ClT), and area under the concentration‐versus time curve (AUC0–∞) values of marbofloxacin in 1‐month‐old calves were 10.62 h, 1.03 L/kg, 0.08 L/h/kg, and 127.90 h*μg/mL, respectively. While the t
1/2ʎz
(from 10.62 to 3.36 h) and AUC0–∞ (from 127.90 to 47.35 h*μg/mL) decreased in parallel with the age of the calves, ClT (from 0.08 to 0.21 L/h/kg) increased. The V
dss of marbofloxacin was higher in 1‐ and 2‐month‐old calves compared to 4‐month‐old calves. After IV administration of marbofloxacin at a dose of 10 mg/kg, an ƒAUC0–24/MIC90 ratio of ≥ 125 was obtained for bacteria with MIC90 values of ≤ 0.60, ≤ 0.39 and ≤ 0.27 μg/mL in 1‐, 2‐, and 4‐month‐old calves, respectively. These results show that the antibacterial effect of marbofloxacin, which has concentration‐dependent activity, decreases due to age‐related pharmacokinetic changes and that the 10 mg/kg dose should be reviewed according to the MIC90 value of the bacteria.
Order Effects in Second Language Learning
Authors: Romain Laurence , Milin Petar , Divjak Dagmar
Published: September 2024

We explore how general principles of learning apply to and combine with usage‐based approaches to language learning and teaching, with a focus on the effects of order of exposure to new information in second language (L2) instruction. Although the effects of input spacing and timing on memory and learning have been previously explored (see Rogers, 2020; Shintani, 2017, for an overview), the effects of order of exposure to the input remain understudied. In this study, we tested whether order of exposure to information in the L2 plays a role in L2 learning and whether an optimal order where the most reliable cues are introduced first ensures that foreign language learners are better equipped to form representations that allow flexible, yet accurate generalisations. We analysed data collected through a training study that teaches the English article system to first language (L1) speakers whose language does not have markers of definiteness.
The logic of ambitious legislators in fluid party systems
Authors: Mustillo Thomas , Polga‐Hecimovich John , Sánchez Francisco
Published: September 2024

Classic theories of political ambition assume relatively stable and programmatic party systems. However, in many parts of the world, ‘fluid’ or ‘inchoate’ party systems do not provide ambitious legislators with the electoral benefits associated with stable party brands. In this paper, we examine ambition in fluid party systems: What is the frequency of party switching for legislators who seek re‐election, and what are their characteristics? What incentives do parties create to push away or retain legislators? And which parties do ambitious legislators seek out? Using a systems approach, we argue that in fluid party systems, legislators' office‐seeking behavior is driven by their attitudes towards parties and their constituents, their prospective evaluation of party performance, and ideology. Incentives for politicians to switch parties act as negative feedback mechanisms which keep the party system stuck in a fluid state. We test the determinants of party switching using two data sources from Ecuador: a public records dataset of every legislator who earned re‐election from 1979 to 2021, and the Parliamentary Elites in Latin America (PELA) surveys of all legislators from 1994 to 2017. Both sources distinguish between switchers and non‐switchers. The results support the conclusion that ambitious legislators in fluid party systems are strategic actors that seek or keep parties to maximize their probability of re‐election—and thereby further exacerbate the party system's fluidity.
Data‐driven model for seismic assessment, design, and retrofit of structures using explainable artificial intelligence
Authors: Shabbir Khurram , Noureldin Mohamed , Sim Sung‐Han
Published: September 2024

Retrofitting building designs is crucial given the global aging infrastructure and increased in frequency of natural hazards like earthquakes. While traditional data‐driven models are widely used for predicting building conditions, there has been limited exploration of recent artificial intelligence (AI) techniques in structural design. This study introduces a novel explainable AI framework that utilizes data‐driven models for assessing, designing, and retrofitting of structures. The framework highlights the key global features of the model and further investigates them locally to adjust the input design parameters. It suggests the necessary changes in these inputs to achieve the desired structural performance. To achieve this, the framework employs interpretability techniques such as feature importance, feature interactions, Shapley Additive exPlanations, local interpretable model‐agnostic explanations, partial dependence plot (PDP), and individual conditional expectation to highlight the important features. Additionally, a novel counterfactual) technique is applied for the first time as a design tool in seismic assessment and retrofitting of structures. The effectiveness of this framework is validated on a real benchmark structure through nonlinear time history analysis and natural earthquakes. The results show that the proposed framework is highly effective, especially under design‐level earthquake conditions in achieving the necessary change in stiffness and strength of structures to meet the required seismic design objectives across different earthquake scenarios. This framework holds promise for wider adoption and applications in various other structural and civil engineering domains.
Break From Digital Screen Using Digital Detox Program in Nursing Students
Authors: Upendra Sheela , Kaur Jasneet
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the effectiveness of an 8‐week digital detox program on digital screen use among 300 nursing students and explored associations between screen use and demographic variables. A one‐group pretest posttest design was employed using the Social Media Addiction Scale Student Form. The digital detox program was implemented for 8 weeks. Digital hygiene, self‐reflection and goal setting, mental wellness, screen time management, physical health, interpersonal relationships, digital detox challenges, and hobby‐based activities. Chi‐square test was employed to determine the associations between digital screen use and demographic variables, respectively. t‐tests were conducted to compare the mean screen time across different demographic groups. Results showed that 42% of students had high social media use, while 20% had low use. The overall mean score of social media use decreased significantly from 64.13 to 47.79 postintervention (p < 0.05), indicating the program's effectiveness. The study suggests incorporating digital detox routines to balance technology use with health, productivity, and external connections.