bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel composite edible film based on quince seed gel and whey protein concentrate as affected by transglutaminase crosslinking
Authors: Gürbüz Zeynep , Şengül Mustafa , Erkaya‐Kotan Tuba , Sarıcaoğlu Furkan Türker
Published: July 2024

The development of edible films, which serve as a safe alternative to synthetic polymers by utilising by‐products from the agricultural industry, has become a focus of research as they contribute to the sustainable use of resources. In the present study, quince seed gel (QSG) and whey protein concentrate (WPC) (1:1 w/w) were used as base components to develop edible films using glycerol as a plasticiser. The proteins were sonicated to denature and then the proteins were modified by cross‐linking with the enzyme transglutaminase (TGase). The thickness, moisture content, solubility, permeability and digestibility of each edible films were investigated. In addition to the morphological, mechanical, optical, thermal and structural properties, the edible films were further characterised. The thickness, moisture, water vapour and oxygen permeability and the water solubility of the films were positively influenced by the cross‐linking and the digestibility of proteins decreased with the cross‐linking. A remarkable change in the secondary structures was observed in the FTIR spectra of the films. The stronger networks and their smooth surface of crosslinked films were confirmed by AFM images. The results of this research shows that QSG/WPC films cross‐linked with TGase have potential for use in food packaging systems due to their advantages and may be an attractive alternative to synthetic materials in further studies.
Exploring the role of cognitive load in faking prevention using the dual task paradigm
Authors: Rasheed Sabah , Robie Chet
Published: July 2024

Organizations are increasingly employing personality assessments as part of their selection processes due to their predictive value for job‐related outcomes. However, applicant faking can undermine the validity of such measures. This study explored a novel faking prevention method using the dual task paradigm. Respondents in the dual task conditions memorized a series of five or seven digits while attempting to fake their responses on a personality measure. Their results were compared with a no dual task condition in which respondents were also instructed to fake. Our results revealed that faking performance was limited, and criterion‐related validity was improved in the dual task conditions compared with the no dual task condition. The practical implications and future directions for this initial proof of concept are discussed.
Effectiveness of interventions for the prevention or management of workplace violence in student nurses during clinical placement: A systematic review
Authors: Dafny Hila Ariela , Waheed Nasreena , Cabilan C. J. , Johnston Sandra , Pearson Vincent , Adams Anne Mette , Phillips Craig , Brown Shannon , McCloud Christine
Published: July 2024

Aim

To systematically investigate the effectiveness of interventions for managing workplace violence experienced by registered nursing students during clinical placement.

Design

A systematic review of experimental studies.

Methods

The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The key search concepts such as “Nursing students”, “Education”, “workplace violence”, “clinical placement” and “clinical study” were inspected to identify relevant articles (Appendix A). Two independent reviewers completed screening, critical appraisal and data extraction. Due to heterogeneity among the included studies, results were synthesized narratively.

Data Sources

MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Web of Science Core Collection (Clarivate Analytics), Scopus (Elsevier), Embase (Ovid), Cochrane CENTRAL, ERIC (ProQuest), ProQuest Central and ProQuest Social Science Premium Collection were searched from inception to 27th February 2023.

Results

A total of 13 studies were included in this review. The predominant intervention for managing workplace violence experienced by registered nursing students during clinical placements was education. Approaches varied among studies and included didactic teaching, e‐learning, role‐playing and simulation practice. The included studies showed uncertain improvements in registered nursing students' confidence, coping skills, knowledge, competence and self‐efficacy in dealing with workplace violence during clinical placements. Only one study assessed the incidence rate of workplace violence and found that a multi‐faceted intervention involving both staff and students decreased the incidence.

Conclusion

Given the heterogeneity of educational interventions, the effect of interventions for managing workplace violence during students' clinical placement is uncertain. To address this gap, high‐quality, proactive and combined interventions at both institutional and organizational levels are needed.
Behavioural interventions to treat anxiety in adults with autism and moderate to severe intellectual disabilities: The BEAMS‐ID feasibility study
Authors: Langdon Peter E. , Apanasionok Magdalena M. , Scripps Emma , Barrowcliff Alastair , Biswas Asit , Bunning Karen , Burbidge Cheryl , Byron‐Daniel Katherine , Cookson Alex , Croom Sarah , Filipczuk Malwina , Gillespie David , Hastings Richard P. , Jahoda Andrew , McNamara Rachel , Patterson Lawrence , Rai Dheeraj , Steward Robyn , Gray Kylie M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this feasibility study was to adapt and model a behavioural intervention for anxiety with autistic adults with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities.

Method

Twenty‐eight autistic adults with moderate or severe intellectual disabilities, 37 carers, and 40 therapists took part in this single‐group non‐randomised feasibility study designed to test intervention feasibility and acceptability, outcome measures, and research processes.

Results

The intervention was judged as feasible and acceptable by autistic adults with intellectual disabilities, carers, and therapists. Minor intervention revisions were suggested. Carers completed 100% of outcome measures and the missing data rate was low. Complying with legislation governing the inclusion of participants who lack capacity to decide whether they wanted to take part in this study led to an average 5‐week enrolment delay.

Conclusion

The intervention and associated study processes were judged to be feasible and acceptable and should now be tested within a larger randomised trial.
Association of xanthine oxidoreductase inhibitor use with insulin secretory capacity in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kitamura Atsushi , Kurajoh Masafumi , Miki Yuya , Kakutani Yoshinori , Yamazaki Yuko , Ochi Akinobu , Morioka Tomoaki , Mori Katsuhito , Shoji Tetsuo , Emoto Masanori
Published: July 2024

Aim/Introduction

Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) inhibitor treatment, which reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, has been reported to improve glycemic control. The possible protective effects of XOR inhibitor treatment on insulin secretory capacity were investigated in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cross‐sectional study included 428 patients with type 2 diabetes. Insulin secretory capacity was assessed based on fasting serum C‐peptide concentration (CPR) and C‐peptide index (CPI) in all subjects, while insulin resistance in non‐insulin users (n = 312) was determined using the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) index.

Results

Median values for CPR and CPI in all subjects were 2.4 ng/mL and 1.5, respectively, while that for HOMA‐IR in non‐insulin users was 3.2. The XOR inhibitor users (n = 72) had significantly (P < 0.001) higher CPR and CPI levels than non‐users (n = 356). Multivariable regression analyses showed XOR inhibitor use was positively associated with CPR (β = 0.153, P = 0.001) and CPI (β = 0.144, P = 0.001). Similar results were observed in propensity score analyses. In subgroup analyses of patients with a preserved estimated glomerular filtration rate (≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and non‐insulin users, these associations remained significant. Furthermore, the associations were significant in patients with lower (≤6.0 mg/dL) but not with higher (>6.0 mg/dL) uric acid levels (P for interaction <0.05). On the other hand, XOR inhibitor use showed no significant association with HOMA‐IR.

Conclusions

The results of XOR inhibitor treatment, especially a sufficient reduction in serum uric acid level, may provide protective effects on insulin secretory capacity in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Skin and systemic inflammation in adults with atopic dermatitis before and after whole‐body topical betamethasone 17‐valerate 0.1% or tacrolimus 0.1% treatment: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Gether Lise , Linares Helena P. I , Kezic Sanja , Jakasa Ivone , Forman Julie , Sørensen Ole E. , Storgaard Heidi , Skov Lone , Røpke Mads A. , Knop Filip K. , Thyssen Jacob P.
Published: July 2024

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is mainly driven by type 2 inflammation and often treated with topical agents. Studies comparing differences in biomarkers between these treatments are lacking.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of topical betamethasone 17‐valerate 0.1% and tacrolimus 0.1% ointment on skin barrier function and inflammatory biomarkers in skin and blood in adults with AD.

Methods

In this randomized parallel‐group double‐blind double‐dummy active‐comparator study design, 36 adults with AD were treated with either whole‐body topical corticosteroid (betamethasone ointment 0.1% plus placebo once daily, n = 18) or calcineurin inhibitor (tacrolimus ointment 0.1% twice daily, n = 18). At baseline, after 2 weeks of daily treatment and after further 4 weeks of twice‐weekly maintenance treatment, we evaluated AD severity, levels of natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and cytokines in the skin and blood and characterized circulating T cells.

Results

Mean AD severity at baseline corresponded to moderate disease and decreased significantly in both groups. Levels of NMF increased significantly in the tacrolimus group after 2 weeks of treatment (p = 0.002) and tended to increase more than betamethasone at week 6 (p = 0.06). Most skin cytokines decreased with both treatments. However, IL‐8, IL‐18, IL‐22, IP‐10, MDC, MMP‐9 and TARC were significantly more decreased with betamethasone than tacrolimus after 2 weeks, while after 6 weeks this was only the case for IL‐8 and MMP‐9. Approximate half of the systemic cytokines decreased significantly with both treatments, but betamethasone decreased MDC significantly more after 2 weeks of treatment. T‐cell characterization analyses indicated slight differences in the expression and activation of T cells between groups.

Conclusions

Topical treatment of AD with betamethasone and tacrolimus ointment effectively reduced disease severity, cutaneous and systemic inflammatory markers. Betamethasone was more effective in decreasing inflammation, but tacrolimus improved skin hydration (NMF levels) more than betamethasone.
The color‐matching ability of single‐shade universal composites in extracted human teeth
Authors: Koi Kiyono , Amaya‐Pajares Silvia P. , Kawashima Satoki , Arora Garima , Ferracane Jack , Watanabe Hidehiko
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the color‐match with extracted natural teeth of three single‐shade universal composites, a group‐shade universal composite, and a highly translucent‐shade conventional composite.

Methods

Twenty extracted human teeth were divided into light‐ and dark‐shade groups (n = 10, LSG and DSG). A preparation was restored with the 3 single‐shade universal composites, OMNICHROMA (OMC), Admira Fusion x‐tra U (AFU), and Essentia U (ESU); a highly translucent‐shade conventional composite, Tetric EvoCeram T (TEC‐T); and two shades of a group‐shade universal composite—Filtek Universal Restorative (FUR A1 and A4). Composites were photopolymerized, polished, and stored in water for 24 h. The ΔE00 value between the unprepared and restored surfaces was obtained using a spectrophotometer. Composite placement and measurements were repeated three times per tooth. Color differences were statistically analyzed with the within‐between‐subjects t‐test and repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by post hoc pairwise comparisons with a Bonferroni adjustment (α = 0.05).

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between OMC and FUR (A1 and A4). AFU and ESU showed significantly higher ΔE00 values than OMC and TEC‐T (p < 0.05). Single‐shade composites exhibited significantly higher ΔE00 values in the DSG than in the LSG except ESU (p < 0.05). None of the composites satisfied the criteria for an acceptable match (ΔE00 >1.8).

Conclusion

OMC showed the same color matching ability as a group‐shade universal composite. A highly translucent‐shade conventional composite and OMC exhibited better color matching ability than other single‐shade composites. Overall, single‐shade universal composites performed better in lighter‐shaded teeth.

Clinical Significance

Single‐shade universal composites have the potential to reduce chair time by eliminating shade selection in cavities with lighter‐shade teeth. Highly translucent incisal conventional composites also may be used if the appropriate shade of composite is not available.
Supraspinal glycinergic neurotransmission in pain: A scoping review of current literature
Authors: Fenech Caitlin , Winters Bryony L. , Otsu Yo , Aubrey Karin R.
Published: July 2024

The neurotransmitter glycine is an agonist at the strychnine‐sensitive glycine receptors. In addition, it has recently been discovered to act at two new receptors, the excitatory glycine receptor and metabotropic glycine receptor. Glycine's neurotransmitter roles have been most extensively investigated in the spinal cord, where it is known to play essential roles in pain, itch, and motor function. In contrast, less is known about supraspinal glycinergic functions, and their contributions to pain circuits are largely unrecognized. As glycinergic neurons are absent from cortical regions, a clearer understanding of how supraspinal glycine modulates pain could reveal new pharmacological targets. This review aims to synthesize the published research on glycine's role in the adult brain, highlighting regions where glycine signaling may modulate pain responses. This was achieved through a scoping review methodology identifying several key regions of supraspinal pain circuitry where glycine signaling is involved. Therefore, this review unveils critical research gaps for supraspinal glycine's potential roles in pain and pain‐associated responses, encouraging researchers to consider glycinergic neurotransmission more widely when investigating neural mechanisms of pain.

image
Symptom clusters and sentinel symptoms in breast cancer survivors based on self‐reported outcomes:A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Lu Xiaomeng , Geng Wenhui , Liu Fengxia , Yin Yunteng , Yin Junpu , Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Lei , Li Shanshan , Li Mengmeng
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate symptom clusters and sentinel symptoms in breast cancer survivors based on self‐reported outcomes, explore the impact of sentinel symptoms on patients' quality of life and psychological distress, provide a basis for implementing accurate symptom management.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The study was conducted from September 2021 to December 2022. We recruited 281 patients who were re‐examined in an outpatient department of a tertiary hospital in Hebei Province. The European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire ‐ Core30 (QLQ‐C30), the EORTC Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire Breast Cancer ‐ 23 (QLQ‐BR23), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were used to conduct the survey. Symptom clusters were explored using principal component analysis, sentinel symptoms were explored using the Apriori algorithm. Correlation analysis was used to explore the relationship between sentinel symptoms and quality of life, correlation with psychological distress. This paper adhered to the STROBE guidelines.

Results

Breast cancer survivors have a wide range of self‐reported symptoms in the form of four symptom clusters: a fatigue symptom cluster, a gastrointestinal symptom cluster, a sickness symptom cluster and a surgical trauma‐related symptom cluster. Three sentinel symptoms were explored: pain, alopecia and limited function of the upper limbs. Except for sexual function, all of the sentinel symptoms were negatively correlated with patients' quality of life and positively correlated with psychological distress (p < .05).

Conclusions

Breast cancer survivors have a variety of symptoms in the form of four symptom clusters. Pain, alopecia and limited function of the upper limbs are the sentinel symptoms, which affect patients' quality of life and psychological distress.
Fabrication of a retentive occlusal device with minimal soft tissue coverage for overdenture implant abutments
Authors: Chen Jimmy , Handel Steven E. , Kim Kyung , Sabol Jennifer V.
Published: July 2024

Nocturnal parafunction is deleterious to the existing dentition and can create a unique dilemma when natural dentition opposes overdenture attachments. This situation can cause mutual destruction of the teeth and attachments, potentially making the attachments and prostheses unusable. This technique presents an innovative approach to protect overdenture attachments from the opposing natural dentition with a prosthesis that has less surface area coverage when compared to the daily prosthesis.
Self‐reported hepatitis B testing among noninstitutionalized adults in the United States before the implementation of universal screening, 2013–2017: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Yendewa George A. , Salata Robert A. , Olasehinde Temitope , Mulindwa Frank , Jacobson Jeffrey M. , Mohareb Amir M.
Published: July 2024

In 2023, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended universal screening for hepatitis B virus (HBV); however, the proportion of US adults screened before implementing this recommendation is unknown. We analysed nationally representative data from the National Health Interview Survey (2013–2017) on self‐reported HBV testing among noninstitutionalized US adults ≥18 years. We employed Poisson logistic regression to identify factors associated with self‐reported testing, using a conceptual framework that included four overarching factors: sociodemographic characteristics, healthcare access, health‐seeking behaviours and experiences, and access to internet‐based health information. Among 149,628 survey respondents, the self‐reported HBV testing rate was 27.2% (95% CI 26.2–28.7) and increased by 1.7% from 2013 to 2017 (p = .006). In adjusted analysis, health‐seeking behaviours and experiences had the strongest associations of self‐reported testing including a history of hepatitis (AOR 2.68, 95% CI 1.92–3.73), receipt of hepatitis B vaccination (AOR 5.11, 95% CI 4.61–5.68) and prior testing for hepatitis C (AOR 9.14, 95% CI 7.97–10.48) and HIV (AOR 2.69, 95% CI 2.44–2.97). Other factors associated with testing included being male (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.03–1.26), ages 30–44 years (AOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.17–1.61), 45–60 years (AOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.30–1.80) and ≥60 years (AOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.28–1.84), residence in the Western US region (AOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.06–1.43), and access to internet‐based health information (AOR 1.32, 95% CI 1.18–1.47). Being Hispanic was associated with lower odds of testing (AOR 0.80, 95% CI 0.66–0.97). These findings may help guide optimal HBV screening in the universal testing era.
Next generation mycological diagnosis: Artificial intelligence‐based classifier of the presence of Malassezia yeasts in tape strip samples
Authors: Köberle Martin , Zink Alexander , Biedermann Tilo , Sitaru Sebastian
Published: July 2024

Background

Malassezia yeasts are almost universally present on human skin worldwide. While they can cause diseases such as pityriasis versicolor, their implication in skin homeostasis and pathophysiology of other dermatoses is still unclear. Their analysis using native microscopy of skin tape strips is operator dependent and requires skill, training and significant amounts of hands‐on time.

Objectives and Methods

To standardise and improve the speed and quality of diagnosis of Malassezia in skin tape strip samples, we sought to create an artificial intelligence‐based algorithm for this image classification task. Three algorithms, each using different internal architectures, were trained and validated on a manually annotated dataset of 1113 images from 22 samples.

Results

The Vision Transformer‐based algorithm performed the best with a validation accuracy of 94%, sensitivity of 94.0% and specificity of 93.5%. Visualisations providing insight into the reasoning of the algorithm were presented and discussed.

Conclusion

Our image classifier achieved very good performance in the diagnosis of the presence of Malassezia yeasts in tape strip samples of human skin and can therefore improve the speed and quality of, and access to this diagnostic test. By expanding data sources and explainability, the algorithm could also provide teaching points for more novice operators in future.
Effect of reboxetine and citalopram on anal opening pressure in healthy women: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover study
Authors: Christoffersen Thea , Riis Troels , Sonne Jesper , Kornholt Jonatan , Sonne David P. , Klarskov Niels
Published: July 2024

Background

In placebo‐controlled clinical trials, reboxetine, a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, increases urethral pressure and relieves stress urinary incontinence symptoms in women. Considering the close connection in neural regulation of the external urethral and anal sphincters, we hypothesized that reboxetine may also enhance anal sphincter pressure. Conversely, it is believed that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may contribute to fecal incontinence by reducing anal sphincter pressure. In this study, we investigated the effect of reboxetine and citalopram on anal opening pressure in healthy female volunteers.

Methods

In a double‐blind, three‐way crossover trial, 24 female participants received single doses of 40 mg citalopram, 8 mg reboxetine, and matching placebos, with a minimum of 8‐day washout between sessions. Using anal acoustic reflectometry, we measured anal opening pressure during both resting and squeezing conditions at the estimated time of peak plasma concentration for both study drugs.

Key Results

Compared with placebo, reboxetine increased anal opening pressure with 23.4 cmH2O (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.5–30.2, p < 0.001) during rest and with 22.5 cmH2O (95% CI 15.2–29.8, p < 0.001) during squeeze. Citalopram did not change anal opening pressure statistically significantly compared to placebo.

Conclusions & Inferences

An 8‐mg dose of reboxetine increased anal opening pressure substantially in healthy women, suggesting potential benefits for fecal incontinence symptoms. In contrast, a 40‐mg dose of citalopram showed a marginal and statistically insignificant effect on anal opening pressure, indicating that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors do not contribute to fecal incontinence by reducing anal sphincter tone.
Blue carbon habitats in Aotearoa New Zealand—opportunities for conservation, restoration, and carbon sequestration
Authors: Bulmer Richard H. , Stewart‐Sinclair Phoebe J. , Lam‐Gordillo Orlando , Mangan Stephanie , Schwendenmann Luitgard , Lundquist Carolyn J.
Published: July 2024

Coastal marine habitats (i.e. mangroves, saltmarshes, and seagrasses) have a high capacity for carbon sequestration (termed “blue carbon”) and the potential to reduce the effects of greenhouse gas emissions. However, blue carbon habitats have historically decreased as a consequence of land conversion, coastal development, and pollution and are under threat in many locations. Restoration of these habitats can reverse historic losses and generate carbon credits through increased carbon sequestration. With a long coastline, we hypothesized that there would be significant opportunities for coastal blue carbon in Aotearoa New Zealand. Results revealed Aotearoa estuaries and coastal areas contain approximately 20,932 ha of saltmarsh, 30,533 ha of mangrove, and 61,340 ha of seagrass, estimated to sequester a total of approximately 57,800 tC/year. A further 87,861 ha of land was estimated to be potentially suitable for blue carbon projects via tidal restoration, of which 56,482 ha was suitable for saltmarsh restoration (equivalent to 60,435 tC yr if restored), 17,291 ha was suitable for mangroves (26,455 tC/year), and 14,087 ha was suitable for seagrass (4790 tC/year). Both existing extent and restoration opportunity varied throughout the country, with greater opportunity in some regions than others. Nationwide, the total sequestration potential for blue carbon restoration was estimated at 91,680 tC  yr−1 if all potential areas were restored. Carbon credits generated by blue carbon projects could be traded on a carbon market in Aotearoa, generate revenue for landowners, provide an additional pathway to meet domestic and international climate change targets, and result in a diversity of other ecological, social, and cultural co‐benefits from coastal restoration.
Risk assessment of infection of COVID‐19 contacts based on scenario simulation
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Wen , Huang Yan‐Ran , Wang Yu‐Yuan , Lu Ze‐Xi , Sun Jia‐Lin , Jing Ming‐Xia
Published: July 2024

We constructed a rapid infection risk assessment model for contacts of COVID‐19. The improved Wells–Riley model was used to estimate the probability of infection for contacts of COVID‐19 in the same place and evaluate their risk grades. We used COVID‐19 outbreaks that were documented to validate the accuracy of the model. We analyzed the relationship between controllable factors and infection probability and constructed common scenarios to analyze the infection risk of contacts in different scenarios. The model showed the robustness of the fitting (mean relative error = 5.89%, mean absolute error = 2.03%, root mean squared error = 2.03%, R2 = 0.991). We found that improving ventilation from poorly ventilated to naturally ventilated and wearing masks can reduce the probability of infection by about two times. Contacts in places of light activity, loud talking or singing, and heavy exercise, oral breathing (e.g., gyms, KTV, choirs) were at higher risk of infection. The model constructed in this study can quickly and accurately assess the infection risk grades of COVID‐19 contacts. Simply opening doors and windows for ventilation can significantly reduce the risk of infection in certain places. The places of light activity, loud talking or singing, and heavy exercise, oral breathing, should pay more attention to prevent and control transmission of the epidemic.
The farm shop as a retroscaped place of experiential consumption
Authors: Griffin Robert Geary , Phillips Martin
Published: July 2024

Alternative food network research has referred to farm shops but rarely examined them in detail. This article argues that farm shops are not simply places of exchange but are complex, immersive, sensory‐rich places of meaning and experience. These arguments are developed through a study that adopts an interpretive/embodied perspective on conventions and applies them through a multi‐methods approach, incorporating autoethnography, interviews, a questionnaire and website analysis. The influence of farm shop interiors and farm context were investigated through thematic analysis. It was found that consumers desired a rustic interior aesthetic, an external ambience enabling exploration and an opportunity to escape time poverty through consumption. Farm shop owners endeavoured to provide a rich multi‐sensory interactive consumption experience, encompassing both enterprise buildings and surrounding farm sites. It is argued that use of ‘farm‐site’ consumption experiences distinguishes these enterprises from each other, contributes to consumer immersion and positively contributes to the collective identity of ‘farm shops’. Furthermore, the provision of retroscaped experiential consumption promises resilience from supermarket co‐optation.
Mapping COVID‐19 at home
Authors: Endfield Georgina H. , Waldock Jacqueline
Published: July 2024

Hand‐drawn maps are an effective method for collecting information around sense of place. In this project, we have used a hand‐drawn mapping methodology as a tool for supporting children and young people in navigating and articulating their experiences of COVID‐19 at home. The nationwide exercise was conducted in partnership with the Royal Geographical Society with the Institute of British Geographers and National Museums Liverpool, and was part of the larger AHRC‐funded ‘Stayhome Stories’ project. The mapping initiative provided a platform for children and young people to visually convey their encounters with the pandemic and provides a lens through which to view how they understood and renegotiated meanings of home through the repeated lockdowns.
How do we make trade policy in Britain? How should we?
Authors: Winters L. Alan
Published: July 2024

Since Brexit, the UK has been responsible for its own trade policymaking rather than inputting into the collective policy of the European Union. This paper starts by sketching how that policy has been developed and implemented and how it is turning out. Overall, it is not very complimentary about the UK Government's efforts and so it then moves on to consider how we might do better. One dimension of this is how trade policy could be made more inclusive in formulation. I propose three (sets of) institutional reforms: increasing Parliamentary (and other) scrutiny of the government's trade policy plans; after examining how the UK public thinks about trade policy, it asks whether (how) one should take into account public attitudes to trade policy issues; finally, it argues for creating an independent source of advice and analysis on trade policy. It concludes by noting that while recent history has been disappointing, trade policy by any government would be improved by the reforms recommended.
Retrospective evaluation of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio as a prognostic marker in cats with blunt trauma (2018–2021): 177 cases
Authors: Doulidis Pavlos G. , Vali Yasamin , Frizzo Ramos Caroline , Guija‐de‐Arespacochaga Abigail
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the utility of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as a prognostic marker in cats with blunt trauma.

Design

Retrospective study from January 2018 to December 2021.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Medical records of 177 cats admitted with blunt trauma were evaluated. History, clinical findings, blood cell count‐based ratios, thoracic radiographs on presentation, and outcome were reviewed. The Animal Trauma Triage (ATT) score was assessed in each cat and classified as mild (1–3), moderate (4–7), and severe trauma (≥8). Forty‐eight healthy blood donor cats served as the control population. NLR, neutrophil counts, and lymphocyte counts were compared between cats with blunt trauma and controls, and among trauma patients.

Interventions

None

Measurements and Main Results

NLR, neutrophil counts, and lymphocyte counts significantly differ in cats with blunt trauma compared to controls (p < 0.001), and NLR was higher in patients with thoracic trauma (p = 0.044). Nonsurvivors had lower lymphocyte counts (p = 0.041), although those values do not appear to be clinically relevant. A significant increase in NLR was observed with increasing severity of trauma (p < 0.001). The NLR was not associated with the length of hospitalization, intensive care assistance, or mortality.

Conclusion

NLR is a widely available diagnostic tool, which can be used in addition to ATT to assess trauma severity, although in our study it was not predictive of the outcome.
On curvature bounds in Lorentzian length spaces
Authors: Beran Tobias , Kunzinger Michael , Rott Felix
Published: July 2024

We introduce several new notions of (sectional) curvature bounds for Lorentzian pre‐length spaces: On the one hand, we provide convexity/concavity conditions for the (modified) time separation function, and, on the other hand, we study four‐point conditions, which are suitable also for the non‐intrinsic setting. Via these concepts, we are able to establish (under mild assumptions) the equivalence of all previously known formulations of curvature bounds. In particular, we obtain the equivalence of causal and timelike curvature bounds as introduced by Kunzinger and Sämann.
Shi arrangements and low elements in Coxeter groups
Authors: Dyer Matthew , Fishel Susanna , Hohlweg Christophe , Mark Alice
Published: July 2024

Given an arbitrary Coxeter system and a non‐negative integer , the ‐Shi arrangement of is a subarrangement of the Coxeter hyperplane arrangement of . The classical Shi arrangement () was introduced in the case of affine Weyl groups by Shi to study Kazhdan–Lusztig cells for . As two key results, Shi showed that each region of the Shi arrangement contains exactly one element of minimal length in and that the union of their inverses form a convex subset of the Coxeter complex. The set of ‐low elements in were introduced to study the word problem of the corresponding Artin–Tits (braid) group and they turn out to produce automata to study the combinatorics of reduced words in . In this article, we generalize and extend Shi's results to any Coxeter system for any : (1) the set of minimal length elements of the regions in a ‐Shi arrangement is precisely the set of ‐low elements, settling a conjecture of the first and third authors in this case; (2) the union of the inverses of the (0‐)low elements form a convex subset in the Coxeter complex, settling a conjecture by the third author, Nadeau and Williams.
Is Travel Associated With Match Performance in Elite North American Professional Soccer? An Exploratory Study
Authors: Draper Garrison , Chesterton Paul , Wright Matthew David
Published: July 2024

Purpose: Travel fatigue impacts cognitive and physiologic systems, but its association with elite soccer match performance is unclear. In this retrospective observational study, we aimed to explore the association between travel and match outcomes in elite North American soccer. Methods: Travel data and match outcomes (team points or goals scored and conceded) and physical performance outcomes from 26 elite professional soccer teams and their players were analyzed (148 matches [team-based data] and 1252 player matches from 297 players; age 22.7 [4.5] y). Player- and match-level correlations between performance measures and both acute and cumulated travel metrics were analyzed. Results: Cumulative travel metrics were positively associated with team (travel distance [r = .20; 95% CI, .03–.25], travel time [r = .20; .06–.37], and time away [r = .20; .06–.37]) and individual player (travel distance, [r = .14; .08–.19], travel time [r = .17–.23], and time away [r = .13; .07–.18]) high-intensity running. Cumulative time away was negatively associated with team points (r = −.14; −.28 to −.001) and positively associated with goals conceded (r = .14; .01–.27); no clear association between acute travel metrics and match outcomes or physical performance was observed. Conclusions: As travel cumulated, away teams and their players ran more but for less reward (team points), although the magnitude of these associations was small. These data are exploratory and do not imply a causal relationship; however, further research should consider cumulation of travel.
Complete genome sequence of
Sporomusa sphaeroides
DSM 2875
T
isolated from mud of the Leine river and
Sporomusa ovata
DSM 2662
T
isolated from sugar beet leaf silage
Authors: Böer Tim , Lüschen Alina , Daniel Rolf , Poehlein Anja
Published: July 2024

We report the closed genome sequences of the acetogen
Sporomusa sphaeroides
E
T
(DSM 2875
T
) and of
Sporomusa ovata
H1
T
(DSM 2662
T
). The
S. sphaeroides
E
T
genome harbors a chromosome (4,956,256 bp) and a plasmid (59,087 bp). The genome of
S. ovata
H1
T
harbors one chromosome (5,433,971 bp).
Meta-analysis of the human gut microbiome uncovers shared and distinct microbial signatures between diseases
Authors: Jin Dong-Min , Morton James T. , Bonneau Richard
Published: July 2024

Microbiome studies have revealed gut microbiota’s potential impact on complex diseases. However, many studies often focus on one disease per cohort. We developed a meta-analysis workflow for gut microbiome profiles and analyzed shotgun metagenomic data covering 11 diseases. Using interpretable machine learning and differential abundance analysis, our findings reinforce the generalization of binary classifiers for Crohn’s disease (CD) and colorectal cancer (CRC) to hold-out cohorts and highlight the key microbes driving these classifications. We identified high microbial similarity in disease pairs like CD vs ulcerative colitis (UC), CD vs CRC, Parkinson’s disease vs type 2 diabetes (T2D), and schizophrenia vs T2D. We also found strong inverse correlations in Alzheimer’s disease vs CD and UC. These findings, detected by our pipeline, provide valuable insights into these diseases.

IMPORTANCE

Assessing disease similarity is an essential initial step preceding a disease-based approach for drug repositioning. Our study provides a modest first step in underscoring the potential of integrating microbiome insights into the disease similarity assessment. Recent microbiome research has predominantly focused on analyzing individual diseases to understand their unique characteristics, which by design excludes comorbidities in individuals. We analyzed shotgun metagenomic data from existing studies and identified previously unknown similarities between diseases. Our research represents a pioneering effort that utilizes both interpretable machine learning and differential abundance analysis to assess microbial similarity between diseases.
Development of a TaqMan probe-based multiplex real-time PCR for the simultaneous detection of four clinically important filamentous fungi
Authors: Wei Yutong , Lin Yangxuan , Zhao Jingya , Li Dingchen , Yang Zhankui , Chen Fangyan , Han Li
Published: July 2024

Filamentous fungi present significant health hazards to immunocompromised individuals globally; however, the prompt and precise identification of them during infection remains challenging. In this study, a TaqMan probe-based multiplex real-time PCR (M-qPCR) assay was developed to detect simultaneously the target genes of four important pathogenic filamentous fungi:
ANXC4
gene of
Aspergillus fumigatus, EF1-α
gene of
Fusarium
spp
.
, mitochondrial
rnl
gene of Mucorales, and
hcp100
gene of
Histoplasma capsulatum
. In this M-qPCR assay, the limit of detection (LoD) to all four kinds of fungi was 100 copies and the correlation coefficients (R
2
) were above 0.99. The specificity of this assay is 100%, and the minimum detection limit is 100 copies/reaction. In conclusion, an M-qPCR detection assay was well established with high specificity and sensitivity for rapid and simultaneous detection on four important filamentous fungi in the clinic.

IMPORTANCE

World Health Organization developed the first fungal priority pathogens list (WHO FPPL) in 2022.
Aspergillus fumigatus
, Mucorales,
Fusarium
spp., and
Histoplasma
spp. are the four types of pathogenic fungi with filamentous morphology in the critical priority group and high priority group of WHO FPPL. These four filamentous fungal infections have become more common and severe in immunocompromised patients with the increase in susceptible populations in recent decades, which resulted in a substantial burden on the public health system. However, prompt and precise identification of them during infection remains challenging. Our study established successfully a TaqMan probe-based multiplex real-time qPCR assay for four clinically important filamentous fungi,
A. fumigatus
,
Fusarium
spp., Mucorales, and
Histoplasma capsulatum,
with high sensitivity and specificity, which shows promising potential for prompt and precise diagnosis against fungal infection.
Curvature correlators in nonperturbative 2D Lorentzian quantum gravity
Authors: van der Duin J. , Loll R.
Published: July 2024

Correlation functions are ubiquitous tools in quantum field theory from both a fundamental and a practical point of view. However, up to now their use in theories of quantum gravity beyond perturbative and asymptotically flat regimes has been limited, due to difficulties associated with diffeomorphism invariance and the dynamical nature of geometry. We present an analysis of a manifestly diffeomorphism-invariant, nonperturbative two-point curvature correlator in two-dimensional Lorentzian quantum gravity. It is based on the recently introduced quantum Ricci curvature and uses a lattice regularization of the full path integral in terms of causal dynamical triangulations. We discuss some of the subtleties and ambiguities in defining connected correlators in theories of dynamical geometry, and provide strong evidence from Monte Carlo simulations that the connected two-point curvature correlator in 2D Lorentzian quantum gravity vanishes. This work paves the way for an analogous investigation in higher dimensions.
Differential elastic scattering and electron-impact ionization cross sections of nitrous oxide
Authors: Dinger M. , Park Y. , Baek W. Y.
Published: July 2024

With the aim of providing datasets for simulations of electron transport processes in the upper atmosphere, we measured singly differential elastic electron scattering and doubly differential electron-impact ionization cross sections of nitrous oxide. These measurements were conducted for primary electron energies between 30 eV and 1 keV in the angular range of 20°–150°. Secondary electron energies spanned from 4 eV to approximately half of the primary electron energy. In addition to the measurements, the differential elastic scattering cross sections of nitrous oxide were calculated using the IAM-SCAR + I model. Furthermore, the singly differential and total ionization cross sections of nitrous oxide were obtained by integrating the doubly differential ionization cross sections over emission angle and over both emission angle and secondary electron energy, respectively. These cross sections were compared to calculations performed using the BEB model and to experimental results of other groups, who determined the total ionization cross sections of nitrous oxide by collecting ions generated during electron impact.

Graphical abstract
Measuring corporate digital divide through websites: insights from Italian firms
Authors: Mazzoni Leonardo , Pinelli Fabio , Riccaboni Massimo
Published: July 2024

With the increasing pervasiveness of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the fabric of economic activities, the corporate digital divide has become a crucial issue for the assessment of Information Technology (IT) competencies and the digital gap between firms and territories. With little granular data available to measure the phenomenon, most studies have used survey data. To address this empirical gap, we scanned the homepages of 182,705 Italian companies and extracted ten characteristics related to their digital footprint to develop a new index for the corporate digital assessment. Our results show a significant digital divide between Italian companies according to size, sector and geographical location, opening new perspectives for monitoring and data-driven analysis.
Optical payload design for downlink quantum key distribution and keyless communication using CubeSats
Authors: Mendes Pedro Neto , Teixeira Gonçalo Lobato , Pinho David , Rocha Rui , André Paulo , Niehus Manfred , Faleiro Ricardo , Rusca Davide , Zambrini Cruzeiro Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

Quantum key distribution is costly and, at the moment, offers low performance in space applications. Other more recent protocols could offer a potential practical solution to this problem. In this work, a preliminary optical payload design using commercial off-the-shelf elements for a quantum communication downlink in a 3U CubeSat is proposed. It is shown that this quantum state emitter allows the establishment of two types of quantum communication between the satellite and the ground station: quantum key distribution and quantum keyless private communication. Numerical simulations are provided that show the feasibility of the scheme for both protocols as well as their performance. For the simplified BB84, a maximum secret key rate of about 80 kHz and minimum QBER of slightly more than 0.07% is found, at the zenith, while for quantum private keyless communication, a 700 MHz private rate is achieved. This design serves as a platform for the implementation of novel quantum communication protocols that can improve the performance of quantum communications in space.
DO PEOPLE SUPPORT MULTILATERALISM?
Authors: MELGAR NATALIA , BARTESAGHI IGNACIO , DE MARÍA NATALIA
Published: July 2024

The main contribution of this research is to provide evidence on the key drivers that shape individual opinions toward multilateralism. In particular, we show that even when people consider that international organizations take away too much power from the governments, this fact is not necessarily seen as a negative aspect. People’s opinions are relevant given that, in the decision-making process, governments should balance several elements and the opinion of voters may be a key driver. The goal of this analysis is to show that there is a robust U-shaped effect in the case of the level of educational attainment.
Fault and top seals 2022: a perspective
Authors: Michie E. A. H. , Schuller V.
Published: July 2024

This short article summarizes the thematic collection comprising key results from the Fault and Top Seals Sixth EAGE conference.
Current Themes in the Archaeology of East Africa
Authors: Kusimba Chapurukha M.
Published: July 2024

East Africa boasts one of the longest histories of humankind. From hominid origins to the present, people have roamed, interacted with one another, and influenced the environment in innumerable ways. To teach about the archaeology of East Africa is to engage with the deepest history of humankind, from Hominin evolution to historical archaeology and the archaeology of listening. Each topic has developed its own peculiar and complex analytical methodologies that require varied resources and degrees of intensity and investment in training and mentoring. This review discusses advances made over the past two decades in the research and dissemination of archaeological knowledge about East Africa. Beyond the major issues that stimulate scientific research and debates, what debates have been settled? Which emerging threats must East African archaeologists overcome to ensure a sustained practice of archaeology in the future?
Indigenous Sovereignty and Political Science: Building an Indigenous Politics Subfield
Authors: Mowatt Morgan , Wildcat Matthew , Starblanket Gina
Published: July 2024

Scholarship from the nascent subfield of Indigenous politics illuminates an enduring tension between Indigenous politics and political science. Settler colonialism continues to configure the contemporary politics of the United States, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia in profound ways that political science has been slow to grapple with. In a related concern, political science has little ability to engage in Indigenous knowledge production. This article reviews the structural exclusion of Indigenous knowledge despite increased inclusion of Indigenous scholarship and argues that Indigenous understandings of settler colonialism, sovereignty, and authority hold the potential to reconfigure political science's approach to Indigenous politics in research and teaching. This reconfiguration will not only impact the development of the Indigenous politics subfield but also expand the analytic potential of political science more broadly.