bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pleiotropic effects of Ebony on pigmentation and development in the Asian multi‐coloured ladybird beetle, Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Lin Jing , Xiao Da , Wu Mengmeng , Chen Xu , Xu Qingxuan , Wang Su , Zang Liansheng 
Published: November 2024

AbstractMelanin plays a pivotal role in insect body pigmentation, significantly contributing to their adaptation to diverse biotic and abiotic environmental challenges. Several genes involved in insect melanin synthesis showed pleiotropic effects on insect development and reproduction. Among these, the N‐β‐alanyl dopamine synthetase gene (Ebony) is integral to the pigmentation process. However, the full spectrum of its pleiotropic impacts is not yet thoroughly understood. In this study, we identified and characterised the HaEbony gene in the Asian multi‐coloured ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis) and found that HaEbony gene is a conserved gene within the Coleoptera order. We aimed to further explore the multiple roles of HaEbony in the physiology and behaviour in H. axyridis. The CRISPR/Cas9 system was applied to generate multiple HaEbony knockout allele (HaEbony+/−), showing nucleotide deletion in the G0 and G1 generations. Remarkably, the resultant HaEbony+/− mutants consistently displayed darker pigmentation than their wild‐type counterparts across larval, pupal and adult stages. Furthermore, these HaEbony+/− individuals (G0) demonstrated an enhanced predatory efficiency, evidenced by a higher number of aphids consumed compared to the wild type. A significant finding was the reduced egg hatchability in both G0 and G1 generations of the HaEbony+/− group, highlighting a potential reproductive fitness cost associated with HaEbony deficiency. In conclusion, our study not only sheds light on the multifaceted roles of HaEbony in H. axyridis but also highlights the potential of employing CRISPR/Cas9‐targeted modifications of the Ebony gene. Such genetic interventions could enhance the environmental adaptability and predatory efficacy of ladybirds, presenting a novel strategy in biological control application.
Cardiac Ablation in the Pediatric Population at a Tertiary Care Center in a Developing Country
Authors: Bulbul Ziad , El Ghazawi Alaaeddine , Khazzeka Alicia , Abi‐Saleh Bernard , Tamim Hani , Khoury Maurice , Bitar Fadi , Arabi Mariam , Charafeddine Fatme , Refaat Marwan 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe aim of this study was to describe our experience and outcome of ablation therapy for arrhythmias in pediatrics at a tertiary care center.MethodsData was collected retrospectively from the hospital medical records. All pediatrics presenting to AUBMC between 2000 and 2020 who underwent cardiac ablation were included. The data collected included type of arrhythmia, ablation technique, age and weight at ablation, procedure complications, medications used, and outcome assessment.ResultsWe had 67 patients who underwent cardiac ablation. Of those, 60% were males with a mean age of 15 years. Structural heart disease was present in 6% of patients. Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome (WPW) was most prevalent at 31%, followed by atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) at 24%, atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT) at 16%, ventricular tachycardia (VT) at 10%, atrial fibrillation (AF) at 3%, and atrial tachycardia (AT) at 1%. The remaining 15% of patients presented with less common types of arrhythmias, including other supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs), retrograde dual atrioventricular nodal reentry, and premature ventricular contractions (PVC). Antiarrhythmic medications were started before the procedure in 59% of our population. Medication regimens postablation included beta‐blockers (68%), type 1c antiarrhythmics (25%), calcium channel blockers (3%), ivabradine (2%), and amiodarone (2%). The completed procedures showed a success rate of 93%.ConclusionAblation of arrhythmias in pediatrics is an effective procedure in the treatment of childhood arrhythmias. More studies are needed on cardiac ablation in this age group and those with structural heart disease in the Middle East region.
Current and Future Probability of Occurrence of the Floodwater Mosquito Aedes vexans (Meigen, 1830) in the Netherlands
Authors: Dellar Martha , Streng Kiki , van Bodegom Peter , Ibáñez‐Justicia Adolfo 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTAedes vexans (Meigen, 1830) is a floodwater mosquito species that may cause significant nuisance and can serve as a vector for multiple arboviruses. Its distribution is expected to shift in the future as a result of changes in climate and land use. Understanding these shifts is important for estimating future disease risk. This study aims to identify habitat suitability and probability of occurrence of A. vexans. Using the Netherlands as a case study, we utilised an occurrence dataset generated by the Netherlands Centre for Monitoring of Vectors. We employed an auto machine learning approach to model generation, using a variety of modelling methodologies, determining the optimal ratio of presence: Absence datapoints in the training data and ultimately creating a 10‐model ensemble. We selected predictor variables relating to weather, land use, soil properties, flood risk and salinity. The probability of A. vexans presence was predicted on a 1 km grid for both the current Dutch situation and for four scenarios for 2050. Our analysis identified temperature, soil type and land cover as the primary determinants influencing the probability of A. vexans occurrence. Future projections reveal an increase in the likelihood of A. vexans occurrence in the study area, particularly along major river corridors and in regions with increasing amounts of artificial and natural areas. Additionally, the mosquito season is predicted to become longer under all future scenarios. Insights provided in our study can also be applied to other similar areas, such as other north‐western European countries or other urban deltas. This study shows for the first time detailed future occurrence predictions and also future seasonal predictions for this mosquito species. Seasonal predictions allow researchers to study how disease risk changes throughout the year, something which is particularly valuable given the predicted lengthening of the mosquito (and thus disease transmission) season.
Parameters to Improve the Accuracy of Intraoral Scanners for Fabricating Tooth‐Supported Restorations
Authors: Revilla‐León Marta , Kois John C. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo review the factors that impact the accuracy of intraoral scanners (IOSs) when fabricating tooth‐supported restorations.OverviewFactors can have a different impact on IOS accuracy depending on the scanning purpose. If the goal is to fabricate tooth‐supported restorations, it is essential to review the following operator‐related factors: IOS technology and system, scan extension and starting quadrant, scanning pattern, scanning distance, and rescanning methods. Additionally, it is critical to interpret the following patient‐related factors differently: edentulous spaces, presence of existing restorations on adjacent teeth, and characteristics of the tooth preparation (build‐up material, geometry, total occlusal convergence [TOC], finish line location, and surface finishing), and interdental spaces (between tooth preparations or between preparation and the adjacent tooth).ConclusionsFor crown or short‐span fixed dental prostheses, a reduced scan extension is recommended. For complete‐arch scans, it is advisable to start the scan in the same quadrant as the preparation. If the IOS permits locking the scan, rescanning may be indicated. Restorations on tooth preparations and adjacent teeth reduce accuracy. The simpler the geometry and the larger the TOC, the higher the IOS accuracy. Intracrevicular finish lines result in lower accuracy than equigingival or supragingival positions. Air‐particle procedures showed better accuracy than coarse and fine grit and immediate dentin sealing. The greater the space between a preparation and the adjacent tooth, the better the accuracy.Clinical ImplicationsDental professionals must understand and handle the factors that impact the scanning accuracy of intraoral scanners differently depending on the purpose of the scan.
An Intelligent Guava Grading System Based on Machine Vision
Authors: Zhang Yinping , Chuah Joon Huang , Khairuddin Anis Salwa Mohd , Chen Dongyang , Li Jingjing , Xia Chenyang 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTEnsuring efficient grading of guavas is crucial for timely postharvest storage and maximizing profits. Currently, the subjective nature of manual grading underscores the need for more sophisticated methodologies. However, employing machine vision for intelligent grading faces hurdles due to the diverse characteristics of guavas and the high development costs. This research targets the limitations in the guava grading process and introduces an intelligent system to overcome them. The system's structure and operational procedures were outlined, establishing diverse standards encompassing guava color, shape, size, and integrity. Image capture and preprocessing of guavas are completed. Employing the RGB model, the study performed color feature extraction and guava recognition, alongside diameter and integrity assessment through edge detection. Following a thorough analysis of various models, ResNet50 emerged as the preferred choice for guava image evaluation and depth recognition. Subsequently, an intelligent guava grading system was developed using Microsoft Visual Studio 2017. Experimental results demonstrated outstanding grading accuracy of 98.05%, with grading speed averaging 5.47 times faster than manual methods. Compared to traditional manual grading techniques, the system excelled in work efficiency, speed, reliability, and robustness.
Determination of Friction Characteristics of Corn Ears at Varying Factors in Mechanical Peeling
Authors: Li Zhenye , Fu Jun , Luo Xiwen , Fu Qiankun , Chen Zhi , Ren Luquan 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIn view of the low bract removal and high corn ear damage in the operation of the current peeling device, this work aimed to accurately measure the coefficients of friction (COFs) involved between peeling rollers and corn ears during the corn peeling. Consequently, the movement state of corn ear in a peeling device and the friction behavior involved were analyzed, and the mechanical model was established. Friction tests were conducted by using the modified tilting table, the modified direct shear apparatus, and the self‐built rolling friction apparatus. The value range and change rule of the COFs between corn ears and peeling rollers were obtained. Linear regression models were described for the COFs depending on moisture content. The results show that the coefficient of static friction (COSF) was 0.391–1.396, the coefficient of sliding friction (CODF) was 0.398–1.318, and the coefficient of rolling friction (CORF) was 0.119–0.377. All COFs were positively correlated with moisture content. Besides, the COFs of two rubber rollers were significantly larger than that of the steel roller. Among the two rubber rollers, the COFs were higher between the fish scale rubber roller and bare corn ears and were lower between the fish scale rubber roller and corn ears with bracts. This meant that the fish scale rubber roller was more likely to cause seed damage under the same conditions. Knowledge concerning these coefficients is believed to provide data support for the improvement and optimization of corn peeling devices.
The pivot to online teaching: an opportunity to create effective problem‐based learning environments for dietetic education
Authors: Griffin Anne 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundDietetics, as an autonomous profession guided by evidence‐based practice, requires a dynamic and adaptable workforce to meet evolving challenges in healthcare, public health nutrition and epidemiological research. This study aimed to explore the opportunities presented by the transition to online education of preparing dietetic students for professional demands, particularly, through the lens of problem‐based learning (PBL) within the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework.MethodsThis paper examines the shift from traditional classroom and practice placement education to online and blended learning accelerated by the COVID‐19 pandemic. It focuses on the application of PBL, rooted in constructivist theories and the CoI framework, which includes social, cognitive and teaching presences.ResultsPBL encourages active and collaborative learning, aligning with the multifaceted roles of dietetic professionals. The CoI framework guides the development of effective online learning environments, emphasising the importance of social, cognitive and teaching presence.ConclusionThe transition to online education presents significant opportunities for dietetic education. Careful instructional design and effective teaching strategies are crucial for creating successful online learning environments, as demonstrated through an illustrative case study.
Beneficial effects of non‐pharmacological interventions for post‐stroke pain: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Saragih Ita Daryanti , Suarilah Ira , Mulyadi Mulyadi , Saragih Ice Septriani , Lee Bih‐O 
Published: November 2024

AbstractPurposePain is a frequent post‐stroke health concern, and several non‐pharmacological interventions are commonly employed to manage it. However, few reviews have examined the effectiveness of such interventions, making it difficult to draw conclusions about their usefulness. Furthermore, subgroup analysis based on post‐stroke pain level or intervention characteristics is rarely performed. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of non‐pharmacological interventions and evaluate the significant factors associated with post‐stroke pain through subgroup analysis.DesignSystematic review and meta‐analysis.MethodsRelevant studies were obtained from seven databases, from their commencement up to March 2024, as well as from the gray literature. The PICOS approach was used to evaluate the eligibility criteria of the studies. The RoB‐2 tool was used to determine the risk of bias in each randomized trial. Pooled estimations of standardized mean difference and heterogeneity (quantified with I2) were obtained using a random‐effects model. The stability of the pooled result was then assessed using the leave‐one‐out approach. STATA 17.0 was used to run the meta‐analysis.FindingsNon‐pharmacological interventions were effective in reducing pain immediately after intervention (pooled SMDs: −0.79; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −1.06 to −0.53; p < 0.001). The approach involving acupuncture, aquatic therapy, or laser therapy and rehabilitation training was effective for post‐stroke hemiplegic shoulder pain. A pooled analysis of non‐pharmacological interventions showed that both less than 4 weeks and more than 4 weeks of interventions were effective in alleviating pain in stroke patients.ConclusionNon‐pharmacological approaches appear to be beneficial for reducing post‐stroke pain. The outcomes based on the modalities merit further research.Clinical relevanceFurther studies are needed to determine the effects of different modalities on pain intensity following a stroke. Furthermore, to avoid overestimation of intervention efficacy, future randomized trials should consider blinding approaches to the interventions delivered.
A taste for growth: Rapeseed lecithin improves the feed intake of post‐juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Kaiser Frederik , Schlachter Michael , van der Sande Anja Diekenhorst , Schulz Carsten 
Published: November 2024

AbstractFeed formulations low in fish meal and fish oil can decrease feed intake and nutrient digestibility. Dietary application of lecithins could improve growth performance and nutrient digestibility; however, knowledge about specific lecithins and their effects in post‐juvenile fish is lacking. This study evaluated the effects of a commercially available rapeseed lecithin mixture on growth performance, feed intake, and nutrient digestibility of post‐juvenile rainbow trout (77.1 ± 12.1 g). A commercially based diet low in fish meal served as the control, while in the remaining three diets, fish oil was replaced with lecithin by 50%, 100% with lecithin, or 100% with a mixture of equal amounts of lecithin and rapeseed oil. Fish were fed to apparent satiation twice per day for 56 days. At the end of the trial, growth parameters, health parameters, nutrient digestibility, and filet coloration were assessed. Overall growth and feed intake were significantly elevated in all lecithin diets compared with the control group. The nutrient digestibility of all diets containing lecithin was similar to the control, and no differences in health parameters were detected. Filet coloration was significantly improved in diets of 100% fish oil replacement. Rapeseed lecithin can act as a feed attractant in fish meal and fish oil‐reduced diets.
Memory and motivation in language revitalization practice
Authors: Taylor‐Adams Allison 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis article examines the relationship between collective memory and individual second‐language (L2) learning motivation as articulated in a qualitative research study with language revitalization practitioners. These practitioners learn and teach their languages and engage in other activities in order to bring Indigenous or ancestral languages into new use following a period of loss. In this study, 28 revitalization practitioners from eight language communities were interviewed about why they choose to learn their languages, what challenges they face, and what supports them in their practice. Interviews were first analyzed using inductive thematic analysis and were subsequently analyzed deductively to engage with research on the functions of autobiographical memory. Findings show how collective memories are made salient in the language revitalization experience, how individuals grapple with painful memories of what their communities and families endured as a result of colonization, and how these collective memories impact individual L2 motivation. These findings illustrate the importance of collective memory in theorizing L2 motivation in order to enhance understanding of context, dismantle overly individualistic interpretations of L2 motivation models, and open avenues for critically engaging with historical trauma and resistance.
The association of statin use with in‐hospital mortality in patients with acute kidney injury during hospitalization: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Zheng Xi‐Zi , Zhu Yi‐Dan , Tang Ling‐Er , Zhou Qing‐Qing , Xu Ling‐Yi , Xu Da‐Min , Zhao You‐Lu , Lv Ji‐Cheng , Yang Li 
Published: November 2024

AbstractAimAcute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe condition in hospitalized patients and carries high mortality. The influence of statin use on the outcomes of AKI patients remains inconsistent. We aimed to discover the association between statin use and in‐hospital mortality.MethodsThis retrospective study screened all adult admissions in Peking University First Hospital between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2020, and patients with AKI during hospitalization were included. Exposure was defined as any statin prescription prior to AKI onset. Patients were followed up until death or discharge. The primary outcome was in‐hospital all‐cause mortality; secondary outcomes included cardiovascular‐ and sepsis‐related mortality, elevated transaminases, rhabdomyolysis and kidney nonrecovery at discharge.ResultsA total of 2034 AKI patients were included. 551 (27%) patients were statin users. During a median of 10 days of follow‐up, we documented 283 (14%) in‐hospital deaths. Compared with statin nonusers, statin users experienced a significantly lower risk in in‐hospital all‐cause mortality (adjust hazard ratio [aHR], 0.54; 95% CI, 0.35–0.84) and cardiovascular‐related mortality (aHR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.24–0.97) after covariate adjustment. The survival benefit of statin use was consistent across subgroups, that is, age, sex, initial AKI stage and major surgery (all P for heterogeneity >.05). For sepsis‐related mortality, elevated transaminases, rhabdomyolysis and kidney nonrecovery, the association was no longer significant in the fully adjusted model. For any type of statins, a statistically significant association was only observed in atorvastatin (aHR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30–0.81).ConclusionsStatin use may improve survival, and atorvastatin may be preferred in patients with AKI.
Nurses' Advocacy in Intensive Care: What Insights Can Nurses' Experiences During the Pandemic Reveal?
Authors: Caram Carolina da Silva , Peter Elizabeth , Velloso Isabela Cancio , Rezende Lilian Cristina , Canever Bruna Pedroso , Rabelo Marcelexandra , Vargas Mara Ambrosina de Oliveira 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTPatient advocacy must be understood as an ethical component of nursing practice that involves respecting and defending patients' rights and autonomy. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, the vulnerability of patients in intensive care units (ICUs) increased requiring that nurses advocate for those patients more than ever in a context in which changes in daily nursing practices of care imposed by the pandemic deeply impacted nurses' advocacy. In this study, we examined ICU nurses' patient advocacy during the pandemic, using feminist ethics as a theoretical lens. Twenty‐five ICU nurses from Brazil participated in individual interviews. Our findings reflect that advocacy is a moral component of nursing identity. This moral identity represents the identity of nurses as a profession as it represents their values and responsibilities which are social in nature. Although the pandemic challenged nurses' advocacy practices these professionals had an important role to give voice to patients and to preserve their autonomy and dignity, strengthening patient‐centered care.