bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adapting Group Prenatal Care for Telehealth: A COVID‐Era Innovation to Address Barriers to Care for Latinx Clients
Authors: Daily Catherine , Gresh Ashley , Hamilton Elizabeth R. , Marea Christina X.
Published: October 2024

The use of telehealth prenatal care increased exponentially during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, but there is no literature describing its use for group prenatal care during this time. The COVID‐19 pandemic also exacerbated structural barriers to care that disproportionately affect Black and Latinx people. Telehealth enabled pregnant people to access health care and minimize infectious risks. Telehealth group prenatal care (T‐GPNC) incorporated the essential elements of CenteringPregnancy with telehealth is an innovative care delivery method borne out of necessity during the COVID‐19 pandemic that has potential to mitigate structural barriers to care.

Mary's Center is a federally qualified health center (FQHC) in Washington, DC, and Maryland that rapidly pivoted to individual telehealth prenatal care early in the pandemic. Mary's Center used our experience with group care and guidance from the Centering Healthcare Institute on virtual Centering to launch T‐GPNC. This new model included home self‐monitoring equipment and video classrooms, mixed with in‐person individual care visits. We used a team‐based approach with nurses, midwives, and community health workers to provide holistic care to pregnant people. Our robust care coordination team also connected them to home visiting, mental health services, and nutrition counseling.

The purpose of this article is to describe how Mary's Center modified the CenteringPregnancy model of group prenatal care for telehealth, following the hallmarks of CenteringPregnancy, and met the needs of Spanish‐speaking clients, henceforth Latinx clients. A secondary purpose is to demonstrate how telehealth can expand access to health care and remove structural barriers that may prevent pregnant people from attending in‐person appointments. We also discuss the structural inequities in digital access and literacy in the context of program implementation.
Decomposition and Changes in In Vivo Post‐HA Filler Injection: A Review
Authors: Hong Gi‐Woong , Wan Jovian , Chang Kathleen , Park Youngjin , Yi Kyu‐Ho
Published: October 2024

Background

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are widely used in aesthetic medicine, but their in vivo behavior and long‐term effects are not fully understood.

Aims

To review the decomposition and changes occurring in the body following HA filler injections, focusing on crosslinking agents, degradation processes, and tissue responses.

Methods

This review analyzed oxidative and enzymatic degradation processes of HA fillers, evaluated the impact of 1,4‐Butanediol Diglycidyl Ether (BDDE) crosslinking, and examined histological changes post‐injection.

Results

Uncrosslinked HA degrades rapidly due to endogenous hyaluronidase, while crosslinked HA undergoes slower degradation via free radicals and hyaluronidase. Complete cross‐linking (C‐MoD) showed better durability compared to partially cross‐linked BDDE (P‐MoD). The concept of modification efficiency (MoE) was proposed to optimize filler safety and viscoelastic properties. Histological analysis revealed collagen capsule formation and autologous tissue replacement, affecting long‐term outcomes. The degree of chemical modification (MoD) influences filler durability and safety, with concerns raised about potential delayed immune reactions from accumulated pendent BDDE.

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider injection site, tissue conditions, and filler properties for safe and effective HA filler use. Emphasizing thorough BDDE removal and optimal crosslinking can enhance treatment safety and efficacy. The balance between achieving desired viscoelastic properties and minimizing potential risks is crucial. Future studies should include diverse ethnic groups to validate findings and further explore long‐term tissue responses to HA fillers.
A Multifactor Perspective on Volatility‐Managed Portfolios
Authors: DeMIGUEL VICTOR , MARTÍN‐UTRERA ALBERTO , UPPAL RAMAN
Published: October 2024

Moreira and Muir question the existence of a strong risk‐return trade‐off by showing that investors can improve performance by reducing exposure to risk factors when their volatility is high. However, Cederburg et al. show that these strategies fail out‐of‐sample, and Barroso and Detzel show they do not survive transaction costs. We propose a conditional multifactor portfolio that outperforms its unconditional counterpart even out‐of‐sample and net of costs. Moreover, we show that factor risk prices generally decrease with market volatility. Our results demonstrate that the breakdown of the risk‐return trade‐off is more puzzling than previously thought.
The Protein/Carbohydrate Ratio in the Diet Affects Zootechnical Performance and the Regulation of Intermediary Metabolism in Juveniles Tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum)
Authors: Carli Gabriela Castellani , Palma Mariana , Satiro Thaise Mota , Soares Hugo Henrique D'Amore , Ferrari Jeisson Emerson Casimiro , Viegas Ivan , Takahashi Leonardo Susumu
Published: October 2024

The use of carbohydrates in animal feed is a way to save protein in the diet. This study evaluated the effect of protein/starch ratio on the performance, hepatic metabolism, and body composition of juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum). Six isoenergetic experimental diets were formulated containing three levels of digestible protein (P: 230, 260 and 290 g kg−1) and two levels of starch (S: 180 and 280 g kg−1): P23S18, P23S28, P26S18, P26S28, P29S18 and P29S28. Juveniles tambaqui (N = 288; initial weight = 30.0 ± 3.8 g) were fed experimental diets for 90 days and the zootechnical performance was evaluated. Nine fish from each treatment group were sampled to determine somatic indices, blood metabolites, tissue energy reserves, body composition and activity of key hepatic enzymes. Blood triglycerides, hepatosomatic index, liver and muscle lipids, and hepatic glycogen increased significantly with starch while blood glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol, muscle lipids were significantly impacted by protein levels. Fish‐fed S28 had increased feed intake (1714–1829 g; p < 0.0001) and fish‐fed diet P26S18 had a higher protein efficiency rate (23.62%; p = 0.0356). Fish fed P23 had lower crude protein retention in the carcass (p = 0.0018) and high lipogenesis and lipid deposition in the muscle (p = 0.0069). These results suggest that dietary carbohydrates have a protein‐sparing effect. Tambaqui adapted well to diets containing starch, even at higher levels, resulting in an overall increase in lipogenesis from S18 to S28. Thus, we recommend P26S18 as a cost‐effective feed that ensures both zootechnical performance and quality of the final product.
Clonality contributes to the spread of Avrainvillea lacerata (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) in Hawai‘i
Authors: Thornton Brinkley M. , Spalding Heather L. , Stoeckel Solenn , Harris Melissa L. , Wade Rachael M. , Krueger‐Hadfield Stacy A.
Published: October 2024

The relative rates of sexual versus asexual reproduction influence the partitioning of genetic diversity within and among populations. During range expansions, asexual reproduction often facilitates colonization and establishment. The arrival of the green alga Avrainvillea lacerata has caused shifts in habitat structure and community assemblages since its discovery in 1981 offshore of Oʻahu, Hawai‘i. Field observations suggest this species is spreading via vegetative reproduction. To characterize the reproductive system of A. lacerata in Hawai‘i, we developed seven microsatellite loci and genotyped 321 blades collected between 2018 and 2023 from three intertidal sites at Maunalua Bay and ʻEwa Beach. We observed one to four alleles at multiple loci, suggesting A. lacerata is tetraploid. Each site was characterized by high genotypic richness (R > 0.8). However, clonal rates were also high, suggesting the vegetative spread of A. lacerata plays a significant role. The importance of clonal reproduction for the persistence of A. lacerata in Hawai‘i is consistent with the ecological data collected for this species and observations of other abundant macroalgal invaders in Hawai‘i and other regions of the world. These data demonstrate the necessity for implementing appropriate population genetic methods and provide insights into the biology of this alga that will contribute to future studies on effective management strategies incorporating its reproductive system. This study represents one of the few that investigate green algal population genetic patterns and contributes to our understanding of algal reproductive system evolution.
Examining the complex dynamics influencing acute malnutrition in Turkana and Samburu counties: Study protocol
Authors: Wilunda Calistus , Sidze Estelle , Thuita Faith , Amugsi Dickson , Abajobir Amanuel , Mutua Martin , Mwangi Bonventure , Iddi Samuel , Lutter Chessa , Flax Valerie L. , Webale Albert , Anono Esther , Odhiambo Hazel , Wainaina Caroline Wangui , Ekiru Stephen , Chepkwony Gillian , Ebei John , Lesiamito Duncan , Kimani‐Murage Elizabeth , Sagara Brad
Published: October 2024

Acute malnutrition in children under 5 years is persistent in Eastern Africa's arid and semiarid lands. This study aimed to identify the drivers of acute malnutrition in Turkana and Samburu counties, Kenya. This was a population‐based longitudinal mixed‐methods observational study. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected at Wave 1, but only quantitative data were collected during follow‐up. Participants were a representative sample of children and their primary caregivers from households with children under 3 years at Wave 1. Anthropometric measurements of all children under 5 years in the sampled households were taken at Wave 1 (May to July 2021), and one child under 3 years was randomly selected for follow‐up about every 4 months over 2 years for six data collection waves. The study also collected data on sociodemographics; child feeding practices and morbidity; household water and food insecurity; shocks; coping strategies, social safety nets and economic safeguards; water, sanitation and hygiene; women's decision‐making and food consumption. Qualitative data were collected through community dialogues, focus group discussions, in‐depth interviews, photovoice and key informant interviews with mothers and fathers with children under 5 years, community leaders, county officials and staff of nongovernmental organisations. Data collection is complete and analysis is ongoing. The analysis includes thematic analysis of qualitative data and descriptive and multi‐variable regression analyses of quantitative data.
Associations Between Gut Microbiota Diversity and a Host Fitness Proxy in a Naturalistic Experiment Using Threespine Stickleback Fish
Authors: Härer Andreas , Thompson Ken A. , Schluter Dolph , Rennison Diana J.
Published: October 2024

The vertebrate gut microbiota is a critical determinant of organismal function, yet whether and how gut microbial communities affect host fitness under natural conditions remains largely unclear. We characterised associations between a fitness proxy—individual growth rate—and bacterial gut microbiota diversity and composition in threespine stickleback fish introduced to large semi‐natural ponds. We detected a 63% higher richness of bacterial taxa (α‐diversity) in the guts of high‐fitness fish compared to low‐fitness fish, which might be driven by stronger bacterial dispersal among high‐fitness fish according to the fit of a neutral community model. Further, microbial communities of high‐fitness fish were more similar to one another (i.e., exhibited lower β‐diversity) than those of low‐fitness fish. The lower β‐diversity found to be associated with higher host fitness is consistent with the Anna Karenina principle—that there are fewer ways to have a functional microbiota than a dysfunctional microbiota. Our study links differences in α‐ and β‐diversity to a fitness‐related trait in a vertebrate species reared under naturalistic conditions and our findings provide a basis for functional tests of the fitness consequences of host‐microbiota interactions.
New persistent plant RNA virus carries mutations to weaken viral suppression of antiviral RNA interference
Authors: Zhu Li‐Juan , Zhu Yu , Zou Chengwu , Su Lan‐Yi , Zhang Chong‐Tao , Wang Chi , Bai Ya‐Ni , Chen Baoshan , Li Rongbai , Wu Qingfa , Ding Shou‐Wei , Wu Jian‐Guo , Han Yan‐Hong
Published: October 2024

Persistent plant viruses are widespread in natural ecosystems. However, little is known about why persistent infection with these viruses may cause little or no harm to their host. Here, we discovered a new polerovirus that persistently infected wild rice plants by deep sequencing and assembly of virus‐derived small‐interfering RNAs (siRNAs). The new virus was named Rice tiller inhibition virus 2 (RTIV2) based on the symptoms developed in cultivated rice varieties following Agrobacterium‐mediated inoculation with an infectious RTIV2 clone. We showed that RTIV2 infection induced antiviral RNA interference (RNAi) in both the wild and cultivated rice plants as well as Nicotiana benthamiana. It is known that virulent virus infection in plants depends on effective suppression of antiviral RNAi by viral suppressors of RNAi (VSRs). Notably, the P0 protein of RTIV2 exhibited weak VSR activity and carries alanine substitutions of two amino acids broadly conserved among diverse poleroviruses. Mixed infection with umbraviruses enhanced RTIV2 accumulation and/or enabled its mechanical transmission in N. benthamiana. Moreover, replacing the alanine at either one or both positions of RTIV2 P0 enhanced the VSR activity in a co‐infiltration assay, and RTIV2 mutants carrying the corresponding substitutions replicated to significantly higher levels in both rice and N. benthamiana plants. Together, our findings show that as a persistent plant virus, RTIV2 carries specific mutations in its VSR gene to weaken viral suppression of antiviral RNAi. Our work reveals a new strategy for persistent viruses to maintain long‐term infection by weak suppression of the host defence response.
Introduction to themed section on mechanisms of national solidarity
Authors: Kaplan Danny
Published: October 2024

This introduction to the themed section on ‘Mechanisms of National Solidarity’ explores key questions and challenges related to studying national solidarity as distinct from national identity. Focusing on the ‘how’ rather than the ‘what’, this section highlights the importance of examining and theorising the social mechanisms that shape different manifestations of national solidarity. These mechanisms include interpersonal interactions, social networks, communicative processes, socio‐political institutions and iconic material objects. Additionally, the introduction briefly outlines the six contributions in this section, which examines specific solidarity mechanisms within particular national contexts. The contributions offer valuable insights into the study of nationhood and nationalism in both everyday life and public events, helping to unravel the under‐explored relationship between collective identity formation and the creation of solidarity.
Design and Validation of a Health Inequalities Questionnaire for Occupational Health Nurses and Occupational Health Nursing Students in Spain
Authors: Cortés‐Aguilera Antonio Javier , Darias‐Curvo Sara , González‐Caballero Javier , Bianchi‐Calero Daniel
Published: October 2024

This article aims to describe the methodology for the design, validation, reliability, and pilot testing of a questionnaire aimed at exploring the knowledge and training needs on health inequalities of occupational health nurses (OHNs) and occupational health nursing students in Spain. Working and employment conditions are social determinants that influence the health of workers. The unequal distribution of these factors leads to inequalities. The training and competencies of OHNs need to focus on the social determinants of health to reduce social inequalities. The questionnaire was structured in five sections and 24 closed questions, self‐administered and online. It was validated by a panel of experts using Moriyama's criteria and achieved an average consensus of 93.85%. Internal reliability reached a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.843 and a McDonald's omega of 0.953. Participation in the pilot test was 92.5% of the sample recruited. Achieving higher levels of health of the working population requires a consensus among different social actors to integrate social determinants, gender and equity perspectives into the overall health policy of the company.
Phytoplankton mean cell size and total biomass increase with nutrients are driven by both species composition and evolution of plasticity
Authors: Matthiessen Birte , Hattich Giannina S. I. , Pulina Silvia , Hansen Thomas , Reusch Thorsten B. H. , Hamer Jorin
Published: October 2024

Community trait variability can arise from the species, genotypic, or individual plastic level. Trait changes on these levels can occur simultaneously, interact, and potentially translate to community functioning. Thus, they are crucial to realistically predict community functional changes. Using a phytoplankton model community comprising a diatom and a coccolithophore each with nine genotypes varying in cell size, we conducted a selection experiment over 130 generations towards nutrient availability. According to our expectations, mean community cell size and total biomass increased with increasing nutrient availability. Interspecifically, these community level changes were driven by shifts in species composition towards the larger diatom. Changes caused by intraspecific shifts did not result from sorting according to genotypes' standing variation in cell size in the first place. Instead, intraspecific changes likely resulted from the selection for a highly plastic diatom genotype, which led to a phenotypic distribution with larger cells in high and smaller cells in lower nutrient concentrations. We suggest that besides interspecific species sorting, the evolution of size plasticity through genotype selection represented an intraspecific contribution to mean community size increase with increasing nutrient availability that ultimately translated to increased total biomass. Our results demonstrate that all three levels on which trait changes can occur, regulate phytoplankton community‐level functional changes and thus should be considered when predicting community change on ecological time scales.
PfGSTF2 endows resistance to quizalofop‐p‐ethyl in Polypogon fugax by GSH conjugation
Authors: Chen Wen , Bai Dingyi , Liao Yuxi , Yu Qin , Bai Lianyang , Pan Lang
Published: October 2024

Populations of Polypogon fugax have developed resistance to many acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase)‐inhibiting herbicides. This resistance threats the effectiveness and sustainability of herbicide use. In our previous research, a field P. fugax population exhibited GST‐based metabolic resistance to the widely used ACCase‐inhibiting herbicide quizalofop‐p‐ethyl. Here, in this current study, we identified and characterized two GST genes (named as PfGSTF2 and PfGSTF58) that showed higher expression levels in the resistant than the susceptible population. Transgenic rice calli overexpressing PfGSTF2, but not PfGSTF58, became resistant to quizalofop‐p‐ethyl and haloxyfop‐R‐methyl. This reflects similar cross‐resistance pattern to what was observed in the resistant P. fugax population. Transgenic rice seedlings overexpressing PfGSTF2 also exhibited resistance to quizalofop‐p‐ethyl. In contrast, CRISPR/Cas9 knockout of the orthologue gene in rice seedlings increased their sensitivity to quizalofop‐p‐ethyl. LC–MS analysis of in vitro herbicide metabolism by Escherichia coli‐expressed recombinant PfGSTF2 revealed that quizalofop (but not haloxyfop) was detoxified at the ether bond, generating the GSH‐quizalofop conjugate and a propanoic acid derivative with greatly reduced herbicidal activity. Equally, these two metabolites accumulated at higher levels in the resistant population than the susceptible population. In addition, both recombinant PfGSTF2 and PfGSTF58 can attenuate cytotoxicity by reactive oxygen species (ROS), suggesting a role in plant defence against ROS generated by herbicides. Furthermore, the GST inhibitor (NBD‐Cl) reversed resistance in the resistant population, and PfGSTF2 (but not PfGSTF58) responded to NBD‐Cl inhibition. All these suggest that PfGSTF2 plays a significant role in the evolution of quizalofop resistance through enhanced herbicide metabolism in P. fugax.
Have We Selected for Higher Mesophyll Conductance in Domesticating Soybean?
Authors: Pelech Elena A. , Stutz Samantha S. , Wang Yu , Lochocki Edward B. , Long Stephen P.
Published: October 2024

Soybean (Glycine max) is the single most important global source of vegetable protein. Yield improvements per unit land area are needed to avoid further expansion onto natural systems. Mesophyll conductance (gm) quantifies the ease with which CO2 can diffuse from the sub‐stomatal cavity to Rubisco. Increasing gm is attractive since it increases photosynthesis without increasing water use. Most measurements of gm have been made during steady‐state light saturated photosynthesis. In field crop canopies, light fluctuations are frequent and the speed with which gm can increase following shade to sun transitions affects crop carbon gain. Is there variability in gm within soybean germplasm? If so, indirect selection may have indirectly increased gm during domestication and subsequent breeding for sustainability and yield. A modern elite cultivar (LD11) was compared with four ancestor accessions of Glycine soja from the assumed area of domestication by concurrent measurements of gas exchange and carbon isotope discrimination (∆13C). gm was a significant limitation to soybean photosynthesis both at steady state and through light induction but was twice the value of the ancestors in LD11. This corresponded to a substantial increase in leaf photosynthetic CO2 uptake and water use efficiency.
Tweeter‐in‐chief: Dynamics of Trump's populist campaign against the Fed
Authors: Binder Sarah , Gode Jackson , Potter Christian , Spindel Mark
Published: October 2024

Social media is transforming how politicians communicate with the public, empowering elected officials to immediately reach target audiences. Scholars of the U.S. presidency in particular credit former President Donald Trump with revolutionizing the White House bully pulpit through his use of Twitter. Trump's bullying of the Federal Reserve and Fed Chair Jerome Powell for ever lower interest rates stands out amidst his often norm‐defying social media campaigns. Such attacks broke from recent practice: Trump's immediate predecessors largely refrained from telling the central bank what to do. What drove Trump's pressure campaign against the Fed? In this note, we identify and tally Trump's attacks, explore dynamics shaping his appeals, and demonstrate that financial headwinds—more so than economic or political barometers—reliably incited Trump to pressure the Fed.
Genesis of sediment‐hosted copper and silver mineralization at the Omatapati prospect, Kaoko Belt, Opuwo district, Kunene region, Namibia
Authors: Nghoongoloka Abner , Takahashi Ryohei , Manalo Pearlyn , Agangi Andrea , Sato Hinako , Mocke Helke , Nopeia Manuel , Blamey Nigel , Enno Tavis , Bowell Rob
Published: October 2024

The Omatapati copper and silver prospect within the Kaoko Belt is located in the Opuwo district, Kunene region, Namibia. The prospect is hosted by dolomite and interbedded argillites of the Neoproterozoic Devede Formation, the Ombombo Subgroup. An ore body is exposed in shallow artisanal mining pits and drill‐cores of the prospect have grades of 0.4 to 5.2 wt% Cu, and 23 to 312 g/t Ag. The prospect was formed by both hypogene and supergene mineralization processes. The hypogene mineralization occurred in three stages. Stage 1 is represented by calcite veins containing chalcopyrite, bornite, sphalerite and galena. Stage 2 consists of quartz and calcite veins with chalcopyrite and bornite. Stage 3 consists of quartz‐calcite‐barite veins with chalcopyrite. The veins of stages 1 and 2 are subparallel or discordant to the foliation of argillites, and those of Stage 3 are NE‐striking and steeply dipping in the brecciated dolostone and argillite. The mineralization stages 1, 2, and 3 are overprinted by supergene chalcocite, digenite, annite, covellite, malachite, delafossite, hematite, and goethite. The supergene process forms a semi‐massive chalcocite‐covellite zone, which extends from the surface to ~50 m depth. The veins show average concentrations of 2.1 wt% Cu, 80 ppm Ag, and 532 ppm Pb for the stage 1, 3.1 wt% Cu, 118 ppm Ag, and 66 ppm Pb for the stage 2, and 18.6 wt% Cu, 675 ppm Ag, and 565 ppm Pb for the Stage 3 with supergene overprinting. Silver occurs as impurity in supergene chalcocite (6303 ppm Ag), digenite (4425 ppm Ag), and covellite (3060 ppm Ag). Fluid inclusions in quartz and calcite revealed that the hypogene mineralization occurred under a pressure >7–8 MPa. Temperatures of ore formation of the stages 1, 2, and 3 were >145–155 °C, >290–300 °C, and >190–230 °C, respectively. Large variation of salinities in each fluid inclusion assemblage suggests fluid mixing and dilution processes. Fluid inclusion gas compositions in the Stage 3 have weighted means of 98.98 mol% H2O, 0.75 mol% N2, 0.52 mol% CO2, 0.02 mol% CH4, 0.0021 mol% Ar, 0.0009 mol% H2S, and 0.00006 mol% He and indicate a signature of magmatic fluids mixed with meteoric waters or seawater. δ34SCDT values of sulfides in the stages 1, 2, and 3 in the prospect have three data clusters, (1) near 0 ‰ of chalcopyrite in the stages 1 and 2, (2) near −11 ‰ of bornite in the stage 2, and (3) +5 to +11 ‰ of the supergene chalcocite and covellite. Modes of occurrence of ores, fluid inclusions and sulfur isotope data show that the prospect is likely the same type as sediment‐hosted copper‐silver deposits with veining found in the Central African Copperbelt.
Midwifing Modernity: Popularizing Modern Health Care for Women in Late Imperial Russia
Authors: Bucher Greta
Published: October 2024

This article examines the discourse on Russian women’s health care in the late Imperial period within the context of modernization. One of the hallmarks of modernity, health care is also one of the most intimate areas of contact between the agents of modernity and the public at large. The discussion was starkly divided between those concerned with peasant women and those concerned with educated women, but both were firmly situated in the overarching project of healthification (ozdorovlenie). While the authors concerned with peasant women’s health sought to overcome traditional beliefs and practices and replace them with the findings of modern science, the literature directed at the educated public illustrates the anxiety that accompanied the modernity project. The authors writing to and about educated society were far more conflicted about the array of problems they observed developing as traditional beliefs and practices were challenged by changes in society. The article explores the development and role of women’s health care, the tensions between professional and popular health care practitioners, and their relationships with the population from cultural, political and gendered perspectives, and analyzes modernization as a site of contention over women’s agency as well as a social and cultural process.
Does individualism lead to longer working hours?
Authors: Tatliyer Mevlut , Gur Nurullah
Published: October 2024

Objective

In this article, utilizing the European Social Survey (ESS), we empirically analyze the effect of individualism on working hours at the micro level.

Method

We use the European Social Survey (ESS), which is a biennial survey conducted in European countries. The ESS provides us five different proxies to measure individualism. In our empirical analyses, we first use proxies separately as our measure of individualism in the regressions. Second, we create a composite indicator for individualism by using the principal component analysis (PCA). We use two different methods for polychoric PCA.

Results

In four of our individualism proxies, we find that individualism is positively and significantly associated with working hours. Our PCA results also show that survey participants with higher individualistic attitudes tend to work longer hours.

Conclusion

We find robust empirical evidence that people who place greater emphasis on individualistic values have a tendency to work longer. The results show that individuals who give more importance to money, expensive things, success, recognition of achievements, showing abilities and being admired, and freedom on his/her decisions are inclined to work longer hours.
Targeted modulation of pennycress lipid droplet proteins impacts droplet morphology and seed oil content
Authors: Guzha Athanas , Gautam Barsanti , Marchiafava Damiano , Ver Sagun Julius , Garcia Tatiana , Jarvis Brice A. , Barbaglia‐Hurlock Allison M. , Johnston Christopher , Grotewold Erich , Sedbrook John C. , Alonso Ana Paula , Chapman Kent D.
Published: October 2024

Lipid droplets (LDs) are unusual organelles that have a phospholipid monolayer surface and a hydrophobic matrix. In oilseeds, this matrix is nearly always composed of triacylglycerols (TGs) for efficient storage of carbon and energy. Various proteins play a role in their assembly, stability and turnover, and even though the major structural oleosin proteins in seed LDs have been known for decades, the factors influencing LD formation and dynamics are still being uncovered mostly in the “model oilseed” Arabidopsis. Here we identified several key LD biogenesis proteins in the seeds of pennycress, a potential biofuel crop, that were correlated previously with seed oil content and characterized here for their participation in LD formation in transient expression assays and stable transgenics. One pennycress protein, the lipid droplet associated protein‐interacting protein (LDIP), was able to functionally complement the Arabidopsis ldip mutant, emphasizing the close conservation of lipid storage among these two Brassicas. Moreover, loss‐of‐function ldip mutants in pennycress exhibited increased seed oil content without compromising plant growth, raising the possibility that LDIP or other LD biogenesis factors may be suitable targets for improving yields in oilseed crops more broadly.
Kalimba Inspired Metastructure for Frequency Selectivity
Authors: Gosavi Hrishikesh , James Evelyn , Cole Rachel , Malladi Vijaya V. N. Sriram
Published: October 2024

In this study, the frequency selectivity phenomenon in the mammalian cochlea is replicated in a simulated environment. Frequency selectivity is found to be of crucial importance in the accurate perception of environmental noise. Previous studies have found that mammalian cochlea consists of basilar membrane which varies in width and stiffness along its length. This results in a gradient in mechanical properties and in turn results in a place-coding mechanism, where different frequencies of sound cause maximum displacement of the basilar membrane at specific locations along its length. The basilar membrane consists of multiple hair cells located along its length. The displacement of the basilar membrane due to sound waves causes hair cells to bend. This bending of hair cells activates ion channels, leading to the generation of electrical signals. Leveraging the principles of cochlear processing, a Kalimba-key-based broadband vibroacoustic device is developed in this study having potential implications for sensory technology and human perception enhancement. Dynamic vibration resonators (DVRs) are employed in this research to emulate the frequency-selective behavior of the mammalian cochlea where the DVRs act as hair cells. A beam structure, acting as a platform for 136 strategically placed DVRs, each corresponding to a Kalimba instrument key is considered. Upon stimulation, these Kalimba keys replicate the vibrations of the cochlear basilar membrane, enabling the recreation of frequency selectivity across a broad spectrum. To simulate the system, a Timoshenko beam is considered to consist of spatially attached Kalimba keys modeled as a Single-Degree Of Freedom (SDOF) systems. A Finite Element (FE) model of this system is developed to calculate the response of the system. Frequency selectivity for different combinations of Kalimba keys is explored in this study. This study shows promising results having potential implications extending beyond healthcare, encompassing fields such as robotics where the integration of biological cochlear principles could enhance robots’ sensory perception and interaction capabilities in diverse environments.
Towards Complex Shape Actuation: An Investigation of Local and Global Magnetoactive Gradients in 3D-Printed Multi-Stimuli Responsive Shape Memory Polymer Composites
Authors: Zamani Mohammad Hossein , Strobel Daniel Raymond , Ounaies Zoubeida
Published: October 2024

In this research, we investigate multi-stimuli responsive multimaterial structures by combining shape memory polymers (SMPs) with magnetoactive fillers. Our objective is to design 3D-printed composites with local and global magnetoactive filler gradients, which exhibit complex shape actuation under magnetic and thermal fields. We first carry out a rheological study of SMP dispersions containing surface-treated magnetic particles to understand the effect of magnetic particle surface treatment, additives content, and shear rate on the complex flow behavior. Our findings reveal that dispersions filled with surface-treated magnetic particles exhibit enhanced shear thinning behavior and shape integrity compared to unfunctionalized dispersions. The improved rheological behavior and shape integrity are important results that indicate that PEG-functionalized SMP composites are promising candidates for direct ink printing. To create complex actuation, a 3D printing system is designed in a way that the magnetic particle-SMP dispersions are oriented using both shear and an external magnetic field, enabling a local angular gradient of magnetic particles. In addition, a global gradient is designed-in by varying the volume fraction of magnetic particles in the SMP suspensions. By adjusting the local and global gradients of magnetic particles within the SMP, different actuation patterns can be achieved. SEM analysis confirms the presence of the global gradient in iron oxide particles and their alignment along the magnetic field direction post-printing. Vibrating Sample Magnetometry (VSM) studies reveal an improved mass magnetization along the length of the printed samples, moving away from the printing origin. In addition, the iron oxide weight percent in the samples increases from 2.5 wt.% at the printing origin to 12.5wt.% at the end, creating a pronounced Fe3O4 global gradient. These findings contribute to the development of advanced stimuli-responsive materials with tunable properties for various applications where complex shape actuation is required, including soft robotics, and biomedical devices.
Development of a Continuous Cable Tensegrity
Authors: Brown Austin R. , Swain Caleb C. , Usevitch Nathan S. , Hill Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2024

In preparation for the development of a “two-and-a-half dimensional (2.5D)” tensegrity system formed by wrapping a network of 2D tensegrity structures around the surface of the arm, we have built a computer model and designed novel connectors. Our computer model is based on optimization techniques that solve for the position of each node while minimizing the energy of the system. It also allows for a single, continuous cable to pass through multiple nodes, something which current models do not allow. For the prototypes of our 2.5D system, we experimented on novel connectors 3D printed out of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a flexible material. These connectors allow the nodes of the bars and cables to be attached to a central point and move within reasonable degrees of rotation with only small moments being applied. We have experimented with the torque the TPU nodes apply to the rods to see how close these nodes are to ideal pin joints. In this paper, we delve into our method for algorithmically solving tensegrity systems with cables passed through multiple nodes and the optimization used to solve the resultant equations. We also discuss the techniques used to validate the model through additive manufacturing and experimentation on our desired tensegrity systems.
Experimental Investigation Into Particle Dynamics Induced by Steady-State Structure-Borne Traveling Waves
Authors: Rogers William C. , De Silva W. Ushara O. , Albakri Mohammad I.
Published: October 2024

Structural wave propulsion is found in nature as a mode of locomotion both on land and in the sea. Wave-driven motion has been investigated as a method of propelling nature-inspired robots as well as transporting materials in manufacturing systems. Among the different ways to generate steady-state structure-borne traveling waves (SBTW), the two-mode excitation has been gaining more attention due to its flexibility and robustness. Two-mode excitation generates a traveling wave by exciting a complex operating deflection shape (ODS) and tuning the complexity to produce a pure traveling wave. This complex ODS is generated by exciting with two actuators at the same frequency but with a phase offset. Each actuator generates a standing wave which results from real ODS. The phase offset between these ODS introduces the complexity to the overall waveform and is tuned to produce steady-state SBTW in a finite structure. In SBTW generated using two-mode excitation, the frequency will determine the dominant modes in the wave and the shape of the active area on the plate’s surface, while the phase offset primarily influences the quality of the SBTW. Unlike active sink techniques, a control effort is not required for the generation of SBTW with the two-mode excitation, allowing for the control effort to be entirely focused on particle motion. This makes the technique well-suited for particle motion applications. While SBTW generated by two-mode excitation has shown promise for wave-driven propulsion of the structure itself, particle motion driven by such waves has yet to be examined.

This paper experimentally investigates wave-driven particle motion, focusing on tracking particle dynamics and correlating it to the velocity field of 2D SBTW. For this purpose, an experimental setup that utilizes GoPro cameras is developed and integrated with real-time image processing techniques. The developed setup is capable of monitoring a particle moving on an excited plate, tracking its trajectory, and calculating approximate velocities and accelerations. The study employs a range of techniques for particle tracking that are applied using Python’s OpenCV library. Color space conversion and smoothing filters are implemented to manage reflections on surfaces. Techniques to smooth lighting irregularities on the plate ensured consistent visibility of the particle. Additionally, methods to enhance image resolution and predictive tracking facilitated the accurate monitoring of particle movement. Using the developed setup, the effectiveness of SBTW in moving particles located at various sections of the plate is evaluated. This procedure serves as the first step in developing robust methods for precision wave-driven motion applications.
Smart Material Optimization: Exploring the Influence of Experimental Parameters on PVDF Crystalline Structure
Authors: Ali Fawad , Albakri Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Advancements in technology, particularly in the development of smart materials, offer promising prospects for sustainable solutions. These materials, known for their responsiveness to external stimuli, span various fields such as healthcare and electronics. Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) is notable for its piezoelectric properties, crucial in sensors and energy devices. PVDF crystallizes in different phases, with the β phase being particularly significant for its piezoelectric behavior. This study examines the influence of annealing temperature on PVDF’s crystalline structure. PVDF films were fabricated through solvent casting by dissolving PVDF granules in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) at 60 °C by mechanical mixing at 400 rpm for 5 hours, followed by casting on glass. The films were then subjected to various annealing temperatures i-e RT, 80 °C and 100 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed for characterization. Results reveal a notable correlation between processing temperature and PVDF’s crystalline phase, with higher temperatures favoring an increase in the β phase content. However, careful optimization of temperature conditions is essential to avoid undesired phase transitions that may compromise performance. This study underscores the importance of processing parameters to fully harness PVDF’s potential in smart material applications.
Patient-Reported Outcome Scores of Athletes With Time-Loss and Non-Time-Loss Ankle Sprains
Authors: McCann Ryan S. , Squillantini Ricardo R. , Suttmiller Ashley M.B. , Chung Sunghoon
Published: October 2024

Non-time-loss ankle sprains often receive less care than time-loss (TL) ankle sprains, but the effect of TL on persistent impairments needs to be explored. Our purpose was to compare patient-reported outcomes between athletes with non-time-loss and TL ankle sprains at return to activity and 6-month postinjury. Participants with a non-time-loss ankle sprain had worse patient-reported outcome scores at return to activity and 6 months compared with TL ankle sprains despite having less severe injuries. Greater than 24 hr of activity restriction following an acute ankle sprain is likely beneficial to the recovery of perceived function and stability.
Neuromuscular Fatigue During Brazilian Jiujitsu Matches: Analysis of Upper and Lower Limbs
Authors: Fagundes Athos da Silva , Marinho Alisson Henrique , Lopes Freitas Iron , Lopes Filho Brandel José Pacheco , Rodacki Cintia , Bertuzzi Romulo , Lima-Silva Adriano Eduardo , Cristina-Souza Gislaine
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To determine the effects of repeated Brazilian jiujitsu (BJJ) matches on neuromuscular fatigue in forearm-flexor and knee-extensor muscles. Methods: Twelve BJJ athletes (8 men and 4 women) performed a simulated BJJ tournament composed of four 8-minute matches interspersed by 16-minute intervals. Neuromuscular fatigue was assessed via prematch to postmatch(es) reductions in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), voluntary activation, and potentiated twitch force (Ptwpot) in the forearm-flexor and knee-extensor muscles. Results: The MVIC of the knee extensors and forearm flexors reduced from prematch 1 to postmatch 2 and remained suppressed until postmatch 4 (P < .034). The voluntary activation of the knee extensors declined only after match 4, whereas the voluntary activation of the forearm flexors did not change throughout the matches (P = .102). Ptwpot of knee extensors decreased from prematch 1 to postmatch 1 (P < .001) and remained reduced until postmatch 4 (P < .001). Ptwpot of the forearm flexors reduced after every match (P < .010), with complete recovery occurring only before the second match (P = .99). The magnitude of the prematch-to-postmatch reduction in Ptwpot was lower in knee extensors than in forearm flexors (P = .044). Conclusions: Repeated BJJ matches induced neuromuscular fatigue, mainly due to impairments in muscle contractile function (ie, peripheral fatigue). The time between BJJ matches seems to be insufficient to allow complete recovery of neuromuscular function, which may influence performance during subsequent matches.
Supplemental Material: Evidence for a Late Cretaceous to Paleogene basement-involved retroarc wedge in the southern U.S. Cordillera: A case study from the northern Chiricahua Mountains, Arizona
Authors: Chapman James B. , al. et
Published: October 2024

Includes zircon U-Pb LA-ICP-MS data, zircon (U-Th)/He data, apatite (U-Th)/He data, and biotite Ar/Ar data.
WDR45variants as a major cause for a clinically variable intellectual disability syndrome from early infancy in females
Authors: Abe-Hatano Chihiro , Inoue Ken , Takeshita Eri , Kawai Yosuke , Tokunaga Katsushi , Goto Yu-ichi
Published: October 2024

Pathogenic variants of WD repeat domain 45 (WDR45) cause neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation 5 (NBIA5), which is characterised by progressive neurological regression and brain iron accumulation in adulthood. Early diagnosis of NBIA5 patients is difficult because they often show only a non-specific developmental delay in childhood, but it is essential for lifelong medical management. We investigated 32 females with developmental delays for coding variants ofWDR45using Sanger sequencing. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and X chromosome inactivation (XCI) analysis were also performed. We identified two disease-causing variants, one of which was a novel stop-loss variant, c.1051delG p.(Val351CysfsTer60), in a female with severe developmental delay from early infancy with epileptic spasms. The XCI analysis (which we originally developed) suggested a random pattern in white blood cells. WGS did not reveal any other pathogenic variants, including those in two iron transporter genes. Together with our previous findings in the WGS study,WDR45variants accounted for 12% (6/51) of the females with developmental delay, suggesting thatWDR45is a major gene in females with developmental delay. Pathogenic variants ofWDR45result in various phenotypes that do not necessarily correlate with variant types or XCI skewing patterns.
QCD masterclass lectures on jet physics and machine learning
Authors: Larkoski Andrew J.
Published: October 2024

These lectures were presented at the 2024 QCD Masterclass in Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer, France. They introduce and review fundamental theorems and principles of machine learning within the context of collider particle physics, focused on application to jet identification and discrimination. Numerous examples of binary discrimination in jet physics are studied in detail, including $$H\rightarrow b{\bar{b}}$$

H
→
b

b

¯

identification in fixed-order perturbation theory, generic one- versus two-prong discrimination with parametric power counting techniques, and up versus down quark jet classification by assuming the central limit theorem, isospin conservation, and a convergent moment expansion of the single particle energy distribution. Quark versus gluon jet discrimination is considered in multiple contexts, from using additive, infrared and collinear safe observables, to using hadronic multiplicity, and to including measurements of the jet charge. While many of the results presented here are well known, some novel results are presented, the most prominent being a parametrized expression for the likelihood ratio of quark versus gluon discrimination for jets on which hadronic multiplicity and jet charge are simultaneously measured. End-of-lecture exercises are also provided.
Electron-positron pair creation under Gaussian and super-Gaussian pulse trains
Authors: Zhou X. X. , Cao X. N. , Li C. K. , Lin N. S. , Li Y. J.
Published: October 2024

The electron-positron pair (EPP) creation under Gaussian and super-Gaussian pulse trains are studied by the computational quantum field theory (CQFT) in the single-photon regime. The details of the EPP creation are studied from the time evolution of the EPP number, energy spectra and spatial distribution of the electrons. The results indicate that the final created EPPs is the non-linear accumulation of the multi-pulses, which depends on the time interval, pulse shape and pulse number. The optimal time interval can be chosen based on the pulse resonance condition, which is derived by the perturbation method. Besides, steeper super-Gaussian pulses and adding more pulses facilitate the EPP creation as well. The results indicate that, under optimal multi-pulse parameters, the number of the EPPs obtained is much larger than the sum of the EPPs created under the same number of single pulses. This finding not only can enhance the EPP creation, but also can improve the multi-pulse utilization and guide future experimental research on the EPP creation.