bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-Frequency Tibial Neuromodulation Increases Voiding Activity - a Human Pilot Study and Computational Model
Authors: McConnell-Trevillion Aidan , Jabbari Milad , Ju Wei , Lister Elliot , Erfanian Abbas , Mitra Srinjoy , Nazarpour Kianoush
Published: May 2024

Despite widespread clinical adoption for disorders of incontinence such as overactive bladder, there remain unknowns sur-rounding the mechanism that underpins Tibial Nerve Stimulation (TNS). Current understanding suggests that TNS counteracts incontinence by the inhibition of brainstem and spinal cord activity. How this inhibition alters bladder function is not fully understood. We hypothesize that the supraspinal components of the system act as a high-pass filter, allowing voiding signals to proceed only when bladder filling reaches a critical level. Testing this hypothesis may explain how TNS is able to induce both an inhibitory and a little-explored excitatory effect on bladder activity in response to high-frequency (20 Hz) and low-frequency (1 Hz) stimulation, respectively. We performed a single-blinded trial in healthy human participants administered high and low-frequency Transcutaneous TNS. We also developed a computational model of the lower-urinary tract and control circuit to study the frequency-dependent effects of TNS. For the first time, we report a frequency-dependent effect of TNS via the ability to alter urge perception and up-regulate and down-regulate bladder activity, corroborating model predictions. These results provide a foundation for the development of targeted and effective TNS therapies, benefiting fromin silicomodels. We hope that future clinical research will determine the efficacy of low-frequency TNS as a non-invasive treatment option for urinary retention.

Significance Statement

This work describes an experimental study supported by a novel computational model that for the first time captures the frequency-dependent effects of tibial neuromodulation on the urinary control system in humans. The findings of the work provide critically important evidence for the role of the brainstem as a filter, which may explain the little-explored excitatory effect of tibial neuromodulation on bladder activity. These results have considerable clinical implications in the treatment of urinary retention, a condition for which there are at present very few non-invasive treatment options available.
A mitochondria-targeted PPR protein restores cytoplasmic male sterility by post-transcriptional modification ofORF147inCajanus cajanifolius
Authors: Bhattacharya Joorie , Nitnavare Rahul B , Yeshvekar Richa K. , Reddy Dumbala Srinivas , Sapara Vidhi , Ramtirtha Yogendra , Kalenhalli Yogendra , Reddy Pradeep , Bhatnagar-Mathur Pooja , Reddy Palakolanu Sudhakar
Published: May 2024

Restoration factors (Rfs) belonging to the pentatricopeptide repeat proteins (PPRs) family play an essential role in plant growth and development including their binding to CMS-associated mitochondrial RNAs leading to fertility restoration. The present study identified 22 mitochondrial-specific PPRs in pigeonpea and explored the underlying mechanisms of restoration of fertility in the A4CMS system through yeast-three hybrid studies. The identified gene was functionally validated through transgenic expression inArabidopsismodel system and obtained conclusive evidence that the identifiedRf-PPRwas responsible for fertility restoration. The sub-cellular localization studies implied that the identifiedRf-PPRis mitochondrial targeting. The study demonstrated that due to the interaction between mitochondrial CMS mRNA and nuclear Rf-PPR protein, post-transcriptional modification occurred, leading to the inability to translate and accumulate cytotoxic CMS protein resulting in fertility restoration. The study specifically looks into the RNA-protein interaction occurring at the nucleo-cytoplasmic level in the A4 cytoplasm ofCajanus cajanifolius.

Highlights

The study identifies the restoration of fertility genes corresponding to the CMS-causingorf147gene.
Cosmological constraints from the redshift-space galaxy skew spectra
Authors: Hou Jiamin , Dizgah Azadeh Moradinezhad , Hahn ChangHoon , Eickenberg Michael , Ho Shirley , Lemos Pablo , Massara Elena , Modi Chirag , Parker Liam , Blancard Bruno Régaldo-Saint
Published: May 2024

Extracting the non-Gaussian information of the cosmic large-scale structure (LSS) is vital in unlocking the full potential of the rich datasets from the upcoming stage-IV galaxy surveys. Galaxy skew spectra serve as efficient beyond-two-point statistics, encapsulating essential bispectrum information with computational efficiency akin to power spectrum analysis. This paper presents the first cosmological constraints from analyzing the full set of redshift-space galaxy skew spectra of the data from the SDSS-III BOSS, accessing cosmological information down to nonlinear scales. Employing the forward modeling framework and simulation-based inference via normalizing flows, we analyze the CMASS-SGC subsample, which constitute approximately 10% of the full BOSS data. Analyzing the scales up to kmax=0.5  h−1 Mpc, we find that the skew spectra improve the constraints on Ωm,Ωb,h, and ns by 34%, 35%, 18%, 10%, respectively, compared to constraints from previous power spectrum multipoles analysis, yielding Ωm=0.288−0.034+0.024, Ωb=0.043−0.007+0.005, h=0.759−0.050+0.104, ns=0.918−0.090+0.041 (at 68% confidence limit). On the other hand, the constraints on σ8 are weaker than from the power spectrum. Including the big bang nucleosynthesis (BBN) prior on baryon density reduces the uncertainty on the Hubble parameter further, achieving h=0.750−0.032+0.034, which is a 38% improvement over the constraint from the power spectrum with the same prior. Compared to the bispectrum (monopole) analysis, skew spectra offer comparable constraints on larger scales (kmax<0.3  h−1 Mpc) for most parameters except for σ8.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Impact of technology driven change on individuals’ readiness in higher education: grounded in micro-foundations
Authors: Samara Khalid , Mulholland Gary , Aluko Akinseye Olatokunbo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The intricate and unpredictable nature arising in higher education institutions (HEIs) implementing technology-driven change for e-learning environments demands a much closer examination of individuals’ interpretations and interactions as they undergo these changes. Through a micro-foundational lens, this study aims to examine the micro-level inhibitors and supporting factors of individual’s readiness for change by investigating technology-driven change in HEIs.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-phased research design using grounded theory methodology was used to collect and analyse data incorporated within a single-case study in an HEI. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with 22 participants, followed by a focus group with eight participants centered on factors affecting their readiness for change during technology-driven change in e-learning environments. The data analysis followed an iterative constant comparative approach and its three-phased coding process: open, axial and selective coding.

Findings

This study revealed that staff with little awareness of the organisations expectations towards a technology-driven change or who are poorly communicated with can exhibit higher resistance and lower individual readiness for change. While macro-level factors of organisational structure can contribute to the success or failure of technology-driven change, the fundamental features related to individuals’ readiness for change are integral to understanding the micro-level causal behaviours underlying these macro-level phenomena.

Originality/value

The dominant model of change is often focused on drivers that are centered on examining macro-level constructs rather than individuals who are facing the change. This study presents theories on readiness for change and offers a micro-foundational view to bring new perspectives into the current literature on how individual-level micro-foundations enhance understanding of technological change in HEIs.
Investigating fretting wear mechanisms in Ti-6Al-4V: insights from residual stress and equivalent plastic strain analysis
Authors: Feng Liwen , Ding Xiangyan , Zhang Yinghui , Hu Ning , Bi Xiaoyang
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The study delves into the influence of wear cycles on these parameters. The purpose of this paper is to identify characteristic patterns of σRS and εPEEQ that discern varying wear situations, thereby contributing to the enrichment of wear theory. Furthermore, the findings serve as a foundational basis for nondestructive and in situ wear detection methodologies, such as nonlinear ultrasonic detection, known for its sensitivity to σRS and εPEEQ.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper elucidates the wear mechanism through the lens of residual stress (σRS) and plastic deformation within distinct fretting regimes, using a two-dimensional cylindrical/flat contact model. It specifically explores the impact of the displacement amplitude and cycles on the distribution of residual stress and equivalent plastic strain (εPEEQ) in both gross slip regime and partial slip regimes.

Findings

Therefore, when surface observation of wear is challenging, detecting the σRS trend at the center/edge, region width and εPEEQ distribution, as well as the maximum σRS distribution along the depth, proves effective in distinguishing wear situations (partial or gross slip regimes). However, discerning wear situations based on εPEEQ along the depth direction remains challenging. Moreover, in the gross slip regime, using σRS distribution or εPEEQ along the width direction rather than the depth direction can effectively provide feedback on cycles and wear range.

Originality/value

This work introduces a novel perspective for investigating wear theory through the distribution of residual stress (σRS) and equivalent plastic strain (εPEEQ). It presents a feasible detection theory for wear situations using nondestructive and in situ methods, such as nonlinear ultrasonic detection, which is sensitive to σRS and εPEEQ.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-01-2024-0005/
See it, share it: what makes social media content viral in the higher education context? The power of positive affective content
Authors: Yang Hsiao-Pei (Sophie) , Chan Tommy K. H. , Tran Hai-Anh , Nguyen Bach , Lin Han
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research examines how universities enhance the virality of their social media messages among students. Specifically, we explore whether and how positive affective content in universities’ social media posts can influence sharing behavior. We also investigate the mediating roles of perceived effort and positive emotional reaction, as well as the moderating effect of visual content (i.e. photos).

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the emotions as social information model, we conducted (1) an online experiment (N = 222) and (2) text analysis of 1,269,798 Twitter posts extracted from the accounts of 94 UK universities over 11 years (2010–2020) to test our hypotheses.

Findings

The findings show that social media posts containing positive affective content encourage sharing behavior and the relationship is mediated by both perceived effort and positive emotional reaction. An additional finding suggests that the use of visual content (photos) strengthens the relationship between positive affective content and sharing behaviors through an interaction effect.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the scant research focusing on positive affective content in the higher education context. The findings shed light on how universities could create social media communications that engage current and prospective students.
Perceived conditions of public open spaces (POS) and their associated impact in Kano, Nigeria: resident and patrons account
Authors: Agbabiaka Hafeez Idowu , Yusuf Fatima Idris , Yussuf Shakirat Oladayo , Ukpong Edidiong
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of public open spaces (POS) on host community in Kano Metropolis.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sets of questionnaires and participant observation were used to collect data for the study. The questionnaires were used to elicit information on the socioeconomic characteristics of residents and users, a total of 140 residents and 70 users were selected for the study using random sampling without replacement.

Findings

Findings revealed majority of the residents earn above 25,000 naira monthly with a percentage of 32.85% while patrons were dominated by respondents that earn below 25,000 monthly. Also, majority of the respondents (94%) have received formal education. Further findings revealed that POS in Kano Metropolis plays an important role in encouraging recreational activities; although some of the open spaces were to some extent declined, the study confirmed the existence of 28 open spaces from the underlying 35 POS within the metropolis. It is noteworthy to note that males were found to be more (80.9%) among users of all the open spaces in the study area with the least participation from their female counterparts. The study further revealed that the adverse effects faced by users of POS and members of the host communities comprised of lack of facilities within the open space, inadequate security, inadequate lighting, lack of vegetation cover, poor parking spaces, breaching the public peace while the residents perceived the open space as means of obstruction of public facilities, causes accident, causes traffic congestion, environmental pollution, increase in accident, obstruction of public facilities, increased accident, degrades the environment, breaching of public peace, traffic congestion and obstruction of public facilities.

Originality/value

The outcome of the study will raise the awareness of the people on the importance, conditions of facilities and the impact associated with the usage of open spaces on adjoining residence. It will also inform stakeholders the modalities to prevent further decline or conversation of open space to other land use and promote proper management of open space facilities and mitigate its likely negative impact on the environment. This will contribute toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11.
Is tourism conducive to green growth? An investigation of the role of tourism-based economic expansion in the nexus of leisure tourism and business tourism
Authors: Awan Amara , Hussain Kashif , Zafar Mahwish , Bajwa Sami Ullah
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The gradual expansion of the tourism sector is raising concerns about whether tourism-based economies are conducive to supporting green growth. Hence, the current study aims to analyze the direct impact of tourism motives on green growth along with the indirect impact of tourism-based economic expansion while controlling for country risk and renewable energy.

Design/methodology/approach

An unbalanced panel data for a sample of 21 countries comprising OECD and non-OECD economies are employed for the analysis.

Findings

Regression results reveal that leisure tourism (LT) significantly and positively influences CO2 intensity compared to business tourism (BT). Propensity score matching results show that the most traveled tourist destinations contribute more to CO2 intensity than those less traveled. Mediation analysis by employing Baron and Kenny’s three-step regression, Sobel’s test and Monte Carlo test shows that tourism-based economic expansion significantly mediates between the nexus of LT and CO2 intensity.

Practical implications

Results of the study provide useful practical implications for sustainable economy and green growth. It recommends to mitigate the challenges of LT, reducing the negative impact and to harness the potential of BT, enhancing the positive influence, through various policies and practices.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine the impact of LT and BT on green growth, to explore the role of destination popularity and the mediating role of tourism-based economic expansion in this relationship.
Addressing career-related social problems using experiential learning: a pilot study
Authors: Borchardt Jamie , Banker Deborah
Published: May 2024

Purpose

We examined skill building techniques and changes over the course of a semester with pre and post-test data collection after implementing experiential learning assignments.

Design/methodology/approach

The Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SEEIT) was used to measure emotional intelligence among students who interned for a 16-week period.

Findings

We found a significant difference using a paired samples t-test in SSEIT scores between the pre (M = 126.6, SD = 4.3) and the post-internship (M = 133.8, SD = 5.7) scores. t(5) = -5.61, p = 0.002. Students had an overall increase in mean scores over the course of one semester.

Research limitations/implications

This was a pilot study that we completed to determine applicability of internship and increasing emotional intelligence. Overall, we saw an increase in EI in pre and post-test comparisons. This was a pilot study, so more research is needed on this topic.

Practical implications

Students were placed in situations during the internship process to help facilitate real world problems and were required to apply applicable textbook knowledge, develop theory-based activities and report their findings. Students worked with various age groups and learned how to work with a variety of populations including faculty, teachers, children and parents on a regular basis and this process contributed to their experience and potentially increased emotional intelligence over a 16-week period.

Social implications

This research addresses the importance of emotional intelligence (EI) in career readiness and its role in potentially mitigating burnout in psychological professions.

Originality/value

This is important to those in the field of psychology and child development and family studies because it addresses concerns with the shortage of skilled and prepared workers.
Extrusion-based bioprinting: considerations toward gelatin-alginate bioink
Authors: Abedi Kimia , Keshvari Hamid , Solati-Hashjin Mehran
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop a simplified bioink preparation method that can be applied to most hydrogel bioinks used in extrusion-based techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

The parameters of the bioprinting process significantly affect the printability of the bioink and the viability of cells. In turn, the bioink formulation and its physicochemical properties may influence the appropriate range of printing parameters. In extrusion-based bioprinting, the rheology of the bioink affects the printing pressure, cell survival and structural integrity. Three concentrations of alginate-gelatin hydrogel were prepared and printed at three different flow rates and nozzle gauges to investigate the print parameters. Other characterizations were performed to evaluate the hydrogel structure, printability, gelation time, swelling and degradation rates of the bioink and cell viability. An experimental design was used to determine optimal parameters. The analyses included live/dead assays, rheological measurements, swelling and degradation.

Findings

The experimental design results showed that the hydrogel flow rate substantially influenced printing accuracy and pressure. The best hydrogel flow rate in this study was 10 ml/h with a nozzle gauge of 18% and 4% alginate. Three different concentrations of alginate-gelatin hydrogels were found to exhibit shear-thinning behavior during printing. After seven days, 46% of the structure in the 4% alginate-5% gelatin sample remained intact. After printing, the viability of skin fibroblast cells for the optimized sample was 91%.

Originality/value

This methodology offers a straightforward bioink preparation method applicable to the majority of hydrogels used in extrusion-based procedures. This can also be considered a prerequisite for cell printing.
Multidisciplinary team meeting Chairs' attitudes and perceived facilitators, barriers and ideal improvements to meeting functionality: A qualitative study
Authors: Lamprell Klay , Chittajallu Renuka , Arnolda Gaston , Easpaig Bróna Nic Giolla , Delaney Geoff P. , Liauw Winston , Olver Ian , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: May 2024

Aim

Oncology care provision by multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) is widely acknowledged as best practice. Formal team meetings, led by chairpersons, coordinate decisions on diagnosis, staging, treatment planning, and review. This study addresses a gap in meeting Chairs’ perspectives on factors affecting functionality across the meeting cycle, from pre‐meeting patient list triage to post‐meeting dissemination of recommendations.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted in person with Chairs within two urban geographical regions in New South Wales, Australia as part of a larger project. Though the population of oncology MDT Chairs in Australia is small, the richness and depth of data from nine Chairs were considered to be valuable knowledge in support of extant literature on meeting functionality. An integrated deductive‐inductive approach was applied to data analysis.

Results

Perceived facilitators, barriers, and ideals relating to pre‐meeting, in‐meeting, and post‐meeting functionality were identified across five pre‐determined analytic categories: the team; meeting infrastructure; meeting organization and logistics; patient‐centered clinical decision‐making, and; team governance. Key barriers included inadequate information technology, limited support staff, and lack of dedicated time for Chair duties. Corresponding facilitators included robust Information Technology infrastructure and support, provision of clinically knowledgeable MDT meeting coordinators, and formal employment recognition of Chairs’ responsibilities and skill sets.

Conclusion

Chairs across various tumor streams develop workarounds to overcome barriers and ensure quality meeting outcomes. With more robust support they could enhance value by sharing evidence, conducting audits, and engaging in research. The findings highlight the need for healthcare systems to support tumor stream clinical networks by allocating greater resources to prioritize multidisciplinary meetings and cancer care decision‐making.
Unveiling the factors of aesthetic preferences with explainable AI
Authors: Soydaner Derya , Wagemans Johan
Published: May 2024

The allure of aesthetic appeal in images captivates our senses, yet the underlying intricacies of aesthetic preferences remain elusive. In this study, we pioneer a novel perspective by utilizing several different machine learning (ML) models that focus on aesthetic attributes known to influence preferences. Our models process these attributes as inputs to predict the aesthetic scores of images. Moreover, to delve deeper and obtain interpretable explanations regarding the factors driving aesthetic preferences, we utilize the popular Explainable AI (XAI) technique known as SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). Our methodology compares the performance of various ML models, including Random Forest, XGBoost, Support Vector Regression, and Multilayer Perceptron, in accurately predicting aesthetic scores, and consistently observing results in conjunction with SHAP. We conduct experiments on three image aesthetic benchmarks, namely Aesthetics with Attributes Database (AADB), Explainable Visual Aesthetics (EVA), and Personalized image Aesthetics database with Rich Attributes (PARA), providing insights into the roles of attributes and their interactions. Finally, our study presents ML models for aesthetics research, alongside the introduction of XAI. Our aim is to shed light on the complex nature of aesthetic preferences in images through ML and to provide a deeper understanding of the attributes that influence aesthetic judgements.
Matching Process Concerning Children With Disabilities in Family Foster Care
Authors: Engwall Kristina , Bask Miia , Bergman Ann‐Sofie , Järkestig Berggren Ulrika
Published: May 2024

Children with disabilities are over‐represented in foster care and exposed to more disruptions. This is unfortunate because they need long‐term relationships and predictability, as well as access to special schools and health care. Disruption can be the result of a poor match between the child and the foster family. In this article, we focus on the matching process in relation to children with disabilities. Zeijlmans et al. describe matching as the process by which social workers move from principles of good matching to realistic matching, depending on existing premises. Using their model, we analyse the matching process for children with disabilities in Sweden. The study is based on 31 individual interviews and six group interviews with social workers and social work managers. They describe how they take into account the family climate, family composition and prior knowledge and/or experience of disability in the foster home. However, disruptions occur even when these conditions are met. Stable placements seem to be more related to the fostered child's progress when the family's efforts are rewarded. We also address the complex issue of what disability actually means in the context of foster care, given the interrelatedness of trauma, maltreatment and impairment.
Empowering children as active and responsible citizens: A dramatic journey towards global citizenship
Authors: Ng Elaine
Published: May 2024

This article investigates three key moments from a sequence of learning facilitated within a Singapore preschool. Delivered as part of a wider study aimed at identifying the value of dramatic pedagogies for developing young children's global competence, the learning sequence was facilitated by the researcher—an experienced early childhood drama educator. The learning experiences were designed to be responsive to the children's interests and ideas, with an emphasis on ensuring their active participation and agency. Analysis of the data was supported using the 2018 Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development Global Competence Framework and the Elements of Drama model. Despite limitations such as the small sample size, the findings suggest that for these children, dramatic pedagogies were effective in providing opportunities for engagement with the complex ideas associated with global competence and sustainable development. However, analysis also reveals that in order to be effective, careful management of the elements of drama is required. The article concludes by outlining implications for educators and public policy‐makers interested in identifying pedagogies suitable for developing young children's global competence and supporting their awareness of the importance of sustainable development.
Employee Stock Ownership Plans and Stock‐price Informativeness
Authors: Zuo Yuehua , Huang Xin , Liu Xiaojun , Dai Yunhao
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) on stock‐price informativeness in Chinese stock markets. Its findings indicate that firms implementing ESOPs experienced an average 11.89 percent increase in stock‐price informativeness. The plans improved stock‐price informativeness through increased external attention and supervision. An event study shows that ESOPs gave rise to an announcement effect, driven by anticipated performance improvements and the novelty associated with ESOPs. A mechanism analysis demonstrates that the implementation of ESOPs attracted market attention, and the increased market supervision resulting from this mitigated the moral hazards of management associated with ESOPs. Plans with more positive signals exerted a greater influence. Notably, ESOPs that prioritized management incentives gained more recognition in the market. As the incentive effects of ESOPs were weaker than those of equity incentive plans and the ESOPs lost novelty over time, the annual announcement effect diminished gradually. These findings underscore the necessity of strengthening ESOP incentives for continued optimization of price efficiency.
Dutch cardio‐oncology cohort: Incident cardiovascular disease predisposes to a higher cancer mortality rate
Authors: Koop Yvonne , Yousif Laura , de Boer Rudolf A. , Bots Michiel L. , Meijers Wouter C. , Vaartjes Ilonca
Published: May 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are the two leading causes of death worldwide. Given their high prevalence, it is important to understand the disease burden of cancer mortality in CVD patients.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate whether patients with incident CVD have a higher risk of malignancy‐related mortality, compared to the general population without CVD.

Methods

We performed a national population‐based cohort study selecting patients with incident CVD in the Netherlands between 01 April 2000 and 31 December 2005. A reference cohort was selected from the Dutch population using age, sex and ethnicity. Mortality follow‐up data were evaluated after data linkage of national registries from Statistics Netherlands until 31 December 2020.

Results

A total of 2,240,879 individuals were selected with a mean follow‐up of 12 years (range 0.4–21.0), of which 738,666 patients with incident CVD with a mean age of 71 ± 15 years. Malignancy mortality per 1000 person years was 84 for the reference group and 118 for patients with CVD, with the highest rate of 258 in patients with heart failure. Patients with CVD had a higher malignancy mortality risk, compared to the reference group: HR 1.35 (95%CI 1.33–1.36). Highest risks were observed in patients with venous diseases (HR 2.27, 95%CI 2.17–2.36) and peripheral artery disease (HR 1.87, 95%CI 1.84–2.01).

Conclusion

Results show that CVD predisposes to a higher cancer mortality rate. Of all CVD subtypes, HF patients have the highest cancer mortality rate and the hazards were highest in patients with venous diseases and peripheral artery disease.
The diagnosis and misdiagnosis of Sjögren disease
Authors: Lee Adrian Y. S. , Rischmueller Maureen
Published: May 2024

Although one of the most common systemic autoimmune disorders, Sjögren disease (SjD) may be overlooked in patients presenting with non‐specific symptoms or no complaints of sicca symptoms. SjD is not a condition to be missed as patients could present with serious extra‐glandular manifestations, including lymphomas. In this article, we discuss the diagnostic pitfalls of this disorder and encourage physicians to consider carefully the ‘non‐textbook’ presentations.
Result of the left bundle branch area pacing data collection registry, an international multicenter study of conduction system pacing with a Tendril STS 2088 stylet‐driven lead
Authors: Vijayaraman Pugazhendhi , Foo David , Lim Tien Siang Eric , Diamantakos Evangelos , Verma Sumit , Hourdain Jerome , Pandurangi Ulhas , Bhargava Kartikeya , Zanon Francesco , Stone James , Lee Kwangdeok , Nair Devi
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Left bundle branch area (LBBA) pacing (LBBAP) has been proposed as an alternative therapy option in patients indicated for cardiac pacing to treat bradycardia or heart failure. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of LBBAP in patients implanted with a Tendril 2088 stylet‐driven lead.

Methods

The international retrospective data collection registry included 11 sites from 5 countries globally. Patients with attempted implants of the Tendril lead in the LBBA were followed for at least 6 months post the implant attempt. The primary safety and efficacy endpoints were freedom from LBBAP lead‐related serious adverse events and the composite of LBBA capture threshold of ≤2.0 V and R‐wave amplitudes ≥5 mV (or ≥value at implant), respectively.

Results

Of 221 patients with attempted implants of the Tendril 2088 lead in the LBBA, 91.4% (202/221) had successful implants for LBBAP. Regardless of the LBBAP implant success, all patients were followed for at least 6 months (8.7 ± 7.3 months). Baseline characteristics: 44% female, 84% ≥65 years old, 34% coronary artery disease, and 86% of primary indications for pacemaker implant. Both primary safety and effectiveness endpoints were met (freedom from LBBAP lead‐related serious adverse device effects of 99.5% and electrical performance composite success rate of 93%). The capture thresholds in LBBAP at implant and 6 months were 0.8 ± 0.3 V@0.4 ± 0.1 ms and 0.8 ± 0.3 V@0.4 ± 0.1 ms. The rate of patients with capture threshold rise ≥1 V was 1.5% through 6 months. The R‐wave amplitudes in LBBAP at implant and 6 months were 9.3 ± 3.2 mV and 10.6 ± 3.0 mV.

Conclusions

This large multicenter study demonstrates that the stylet‐driven Tendril™ STS 2088 lead is safe and effective for LBBAP with high success and low complication rates.
Anoctamin‐like protein 1 regulates repolarization in Paramecium behavioral responses
Authors: Sakoshita Kana , Aratani Shotaro , Kameda Nana , Takebe Ryo , Tominaga Takashi , Ishida Masaki , Hori Manabu
Published: May 2024

Paramecium exhibits responsive behavior to environmental changes, moving either closer to or further away from stimuli. Electrophysiological experiments have revealed that these behavioral responses are controlled by membrane potentials. Anoctamin, a Ca2+‐activated Cl− channel, is involved in the regulation of membrane potential in mammals. However, it remains uncertain whether Cl− channels like anoctamin regulate Paramecium behavior. Herein, replacement of external Cl− ions with acetate ion and application of Cl− channel blocker niflumic acid (NFA, 0.1 μM) increased spontaneous avoiding reactions (sARs). Hence, we hypothesized that anoctamin is involved in the stabilization of membrane potential fluctuation. Paramecium cells in which the anoctamin‐like protein 1 gene was knocked down displayed frequent sARs in the culture medium without external stimulation. Treatment of anoctamin‐like protein 1‐knockdown cells with the Ca2+ chelator BAPTA or Ca‐channel blocker nicardipine reversed the increase in sARs. Electrophysiological experiments revealed extension of membrane depolarization when positive currents were applied to anoctamin‐like protein 1‐knockdown cells. We concluded that anoctamin‐like protein 1 works as a Cl‐channel and stabilizes the membrane potential oscillation, reducing sARs.
Study of curtaining effect reduction methods in Inconel 718 using a plasma focused ion beam
Authors: Jaime F. , Desbief S. , Silvent J. , Goupil G. , Bernacki M. , Bozzolo N. , Nicolaÿ A.
Published: May 2024

The curtaining effect is a common challenge in focused ion beam (FIB) surface preparation. This study investigates methods to reduce this effect during plasma FIB milling of Inconel 718 (nickel‐based superalloy). Platinum deposition, silicon mask and XeF2 gas injection were explored as potential solutions. These methods were evaluated for two ion beam current conditions; a high ion beam intensity condition (30 kV–1 µA) and a medium one (30 kV–100 nA) and their impact on curtaining reduction and resulting cross‐section quality was assessed quantitatively thanks to topographic measurements done by atomic force microscopy (AFM). XeF2 assistance notably improved cross‐section quality at medium current level. Pt deposition and Si mask individually mitigated the curtaining effect, with greater efficacy at 100 nA. Both methods also contributed to reducing cross‐section curvature, with the Si mask outperforming Pt deposition. However, combining Pt deposition and Si mask with XeF2 injection led to deterioration of these protective layers and the reappearance of the curtaining effect after a quite short exposure time.
The climate‐induced changes in the life history of the common cuttlefish in the English Channel
Authors: Laptikhovsky Vladimir , Barrett Christopher J. , Barry Peter J. , Firmin Chris , MacLeod Eleanor , Stott Samantha , Vieira Rui
Published: May 2024

The population of common cuttlefish Sepia officinalis in the English Channel recently developed two life cycles: annual (spawning 1 y.o.) and biennial (spawning 2 y.o.) instead of the biennial strategy known before, associated with increasing environmental temperatures in recent decades because of climate changes. Both groups differ in the size of mature animals (110–196 mm mantle length vs. 140–262 mm) and the number of chambers in the cuttlebone (60–97 in annual vs. 93–152 in biennial). The annual group represented some 15%–20% of the population, and the proportion of early spawners increased during the reproductive period, from 3%–5% in February/March to 50%–70% in June/July. Among spawning cuttlefish males predominated as ~2:1. Such environmentally driven changes in historical ecology as exemplified by the cuttlefish might be a critical link in the adaptation of the cephalopod life cycles to changing ecosystems.
Intelligent design of shear wall layout based on diffusion models
Authors: Gu Yi , Huang Yuli , Liao Wenjie , Lu Xinzheng
Published: May 2024

This study explores artificial intelligence (AI) for shear wall layout design, aiming to overcome challenges in data feature sparsity and the complexity of drawing representations in existing AI‐based methods. We pioneer an innovative method leveraging the potential of diffusion models, establishing a suitable drawing representation, and examining the impact of various conditions. The proposed image‐prompt diffusion model incorporating a mask tensor featuring tailored training methods demonstrates superior feature extraction and design effectiveness. A comparative study reveals the advanced capabilities of the Struct‐Diffusion model in capturing engineering designs and optimizing performance metrics such as inter‐story drift ratio (in elastic analysis), offering significant improvements over previous methods and paving the way for future innovations in intelligent designs.
Objective Housing Sales and Rent Prices in Representative Household Surveys: Implications for Wealth, Inequality, Housing Market, and Affordability Statistics
Authors: Naidin M. Denisa , Waltl Sofie R. , Ziegelmeyer Michael H.
Published: May 2024

Many economic analyses require hypothetical but realistic sales and rent prices for properties representative of the housing stock and reflecting current market conditions. To achieve this, we replace subjectively reported prices in a representative household survey in Luxembourg with objectified hedonic imputations informed by observable market data. Thus, we propose a powerful tool for assessing the health and affordability of housing markets, compiling housing‐related statistics and simulating hypothetical scenarios. This approach also enables us to test for the reliability of survey responses. When switching to objectified values, we detect shifts in the wealth distribution, large regional variation in market indicators, and striking affordability concerns: only 18 percent of Luxembourg's renters could theoretically afford to purchase their inhabited dwellings given current market conditions. Further, participants' tendency to mis‐estimate market values strongly correlates with tenure length and type, dwelling type, income, and wealth.
Phosphorylation of Doc2 by EphB2 modulates Munc13-mediated SNARE complex assembly and neurotransmitter release
Authors: Zhang Hong , Lei Mengshi , Zhang Yu , Li Hao , He Zhen , Xie Sheng , Zhu Le , Wang Shen , Liu Jianfeng , Li Yan , Lu Youming , Ma Cong
Published: May 2024

At the synapse, presynaptic neurotransmitter release is tightly controlled by release machinery, involving the soluble
N
-ethylmaleimide–sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins and Munc13. The Ca
2+
sensor Doc2 cooperates with Munc13 to regulate neurotransmitter release, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In our study, we have characterized the binding mode between Doc2 and Munc13 and found that Doc2 originally occludes Munc13 to inhibit SNARE complex assembly. Moreover, our investigation unveiled that EphB2, a presynaptic adhesion molecule (SAM) with inherent tyrosine kinase functionality, exhibits the capacity to phosphorylate Doc2. This phosphorylation attenuates Doc2 block on Munc13 to promote SNARE complex assembly, which functionally induces spontaneous release and synaptic augmentation. Consistently, application of a Doc2 peptide that interrupts Doc2-Munc13 interplay impairs excitatory synaptic transmission and leads to dysfunction in spatial learning and memory. These data provide evidence that SAMs modulate neurotransmitter release by controlling SNARE complex assembly.
Nonlinear self-calibrated spectrometer with single GeSe-InSe heterojunction device
Authors: Darweesh Rana , Yadav Rajesh Kumar , Adler Elior , Poplinger Michal , Levi Adi , Lee Jea-Jung , Leshem Amir , Ramasubramaniam Ashwin , Xia Fengnian , Naveh Doron
Published: May 2024

Computational spectrometry is an emerging field that uses photodetection in conjunction with numerical algorithms for spectroscopic measurements. Compact single photodetectors made from layered materials are particularly attractive since they eliminate the need for bulky mechanical and optical components used in traditional spectrometers and can easily be engineered as heterostructures to optimize device performance. However, such photodetectors are typically nonlinear devices, which adds complexity to extracting optical spectra from their response. Here, we train an artificial neural network to recover the full nonlinear spectral photoresponse of a single GeSe-InSe p-n heterojunction device. The device has a spectral range of 400 to 1100 nm, a small footprint of ~25 × 25 square micrometers, and a mean reconstruction error of 2 × 10
−4
for the power spectrum at 0.35 nanometers. Using our device, we demonstrate a solution to metamerism, an apparent matching of colors with different power spectral distributions, which is a fundamental problem in optical imaging.
Patient and caregiver characteristics associated with differential use of primary care for children and young people in the UK: a scoping review
Authors: Herbert Kevin , Herlitz Lauren , Woodman Jenny , Powell Claire , Morris Stephen
Published: May 2024

Objective

To systematically map evidence to answer the research question:What is the relationship between the characteristics of children and young people (CYP) or their caregivers and primary care service use in the UK, taking into account underlying healthcare needs?

Design

Scoping review.

Setting

Primary care.

Eligibility criteria

English-language quantitative or mixed-methods studies published between 2012 and 2022.

Data sources

Medline, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science Social Sciences Citation Index, and grey literature.

Results

22 eligible studies were identified, covering general practice (n=14), dental health (n=4), child mental health (MN) services (n=3) and immunisation (n=1). Only eight studies (36%) controlled for variables associated with healthcare need (eg, age, birth weight and long-term conditions). In these, evidence of horizontal inequity in primary care use was reported for CYP living in deprived areas in England, with and without complex needs. Horizontal inequity was also identified in primary care MN referrals for CYP in England identifying as mixed-race, Asian or black ethnicity, compared with their white British peers. No evidence of horizontal inequity was observed, however, in primary care use for CYP in England exposed to parental depression, or for CYP children from low-income households in Scotland. Increasing CYP’s age was associated with decreasing primary care use across included studies. No studies were found regarding CYP from Gypsy or Traveller communities, children in care, or those with disabilities or special educational needs.

Conclusions

There is evidence that socioeconomic factors impact on CYP’s primary care use, in particular age, ethnicity and deprivation. However, better quality evidence is required to evaluate horizontal inequity in use and address knowledge gaps regarding primary care use for vulnerable CYP populations and the impact of policy and practice related ‘supply side’ of primary care.
Bridging Educational Grant in Nursing (BEGIN) students’ intentions for retention in long-term, home and community care: A survey protocol
Authors: Connelly Denise M , Hay Melissa Erin , Guitar Nicole Ann , Prentice Kristin
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Retention of nurses in long-term care (LTC) and home and community care (HCC) settings is a growing concern. Previous evidence underscores factors which contribute to nurses’ intentions for retention in these sectors. However, perspectives of nursing students preparing to enter the workforce, and their intentions for short-term and long-term retention, remain unknown. This study aims to explore relationships between short-term and long-term intentions for retention with psychological empowerment, work engagement, career commitment, burnout, prosocial motivation, self-care and personal resilience among students enrolled in nursing educational bridging programs supported by the Bridging Educational Grant in Nursing (BEGIN) program in Ontario, Canada.

Methods and analysis

This cross-sectional design study will use an open online survey to investigate perspectives of current nursing students enrolled in educational bridging programs on factors relating to psychological empowerment, work engagement, career commitment, resilience, burnout, prosocial motivation, self-care and intentions for retention. Additionally, the survey will collect demographic information, including age, gender, ethnicity, citizenship, income, family status, nursing role, and years of employment and/or education. Open-ended questions will elicit participants’ perspectives on financial considerations for career planning and other factors impacting intentions for retention. Descriptive data will be presented for contextualisation of participants’ demographic characteristics to enhance generalisability of the cohort. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarise participants’ scores on various assessment measures, as well as their short-term and long-term intentions for retention in LTC and HCC after completion of BEGIN. A Pearson’s product moment r correlation will determine relationships between intentions for retention and other measures, and linear regression will determine whether any potential correlations can be explained by regression.

Ethics and dissemination

This research protocol received ethical approval from a research-intensive university research ethics board (#123211). Findings will be disseminated to nursing knowledge users in LTC and HCC through publications, conferences, social media and newsletters.