bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Passive acoustic surveys reveal interactions between frugivorous birds and fruiting trees on a large forest dynamics plot
Authors: Dong Anran , He Xuelian , Deng Yiming , Lin Luxiang , Goodale Eben
Published: October 2022

Long‐term vegetation plots represent one of the largest types of research investments in ecology, but efforts to interrelate data on plants with that on animals are constrained because of the disturbance produced by human observers. Recent advances in the automated identification of animal sounds on large datasets of autonomously collected audio recordings hold the potential to describe plant–animal interactions, such as between frugivorous birds and fruiting trees, without such disturbance. We deployed an array of nine autonomous recording units (ARUs) on the 400 × 500 m Bubeng Forest Dynamics Plot, in Xishuangbanna, southwest China, and collected a total of 1965 h of recordings across two seasons. Animal Sound Identifier (ASI) software was used to detect the vocalizations of five frugivorous bird species, and the probability of detection was related to the number of mature fruiting trees within a 50 m radius of the ARUs. There were more significant positive relationships than would be expected by chance in analyses that investigated bird/tree interactions across 3 months, both in the wet season and the dry season, as well as in short‐term analyses within the dry season months of October and November. The analysis identified 54 interactions between bird and tree species with significant positive relationships. Follow‐up observations of birds on the plot validated that such interactions were more likely to be observed than other interactions. We demonstrate that ARUs and automated voice identification can map the distribution and/or movement of vocal animals across large vegetation plots, allowing this data on animals to be inter‐related to that on plants. We suggest that ARUs be added to the standardized protocols of the plot network, leveraging their vast amount of information about vegetation to describe plant–animal interactions currently, and monitor changes in the future.
A Tandem Prins/Friedel‐Crafts Cyclization Strategy for the Stereoselective Synthesis of Hexahydro‐2H‐benzo[g]chromenes
Authors: Meng Shuyu , Guo Wentao , Liu Jie , Zheng Jie , Wang Quanrui
Published: October 2022

A tandem Prins/Friedel‐Crafts cascade strategy has been developed for the synthesis of hexahydro‐2H‐benzo[g]chromene derivatives. Under action of equimolecular amount of BF3 etherate, δ,ϵ‐unsaturated alcohols and arylacetaldehydes are coupled to form oxocarbenium ion intermediates, which are captured by the alkene moiety through a favored six‐membered transition state. The Prins‐cyclization resultant tertiary carbenium ions undergo consecutive intramolecular Friedel–Crafts cyclization to create the tricyclic products. This process enables a tandem formation of three new chemical bonds in one single operation with high yields and stereoselectivity in most cases. When cyclic substituents are involved, a variety of spiro derivatives could also be synthesized successfully, which further proved the robustness of this methodology.
Small‐Scale Big Science: From Nano‐ to Atomically Dispersed Catalytic Materials
Authors: Wang Ligang , Liu Huan , Zhuang Jiahao , Wang Dingsheng
Published: October 2022

The emergence of nanomaterials (NMs) has made everyone more aware of the close relationship between the size and performance of materials. Especially, the catalytic properties of materials may change dramatically when the macroscopic size of matter goes from bulk to nanometer to atomic level. It is very firmly believed that “Small size determines macroproperties, contains big science.” Therefore, as chemists hope, it is very essential to rationally tune and characterize the size of materials and deeply understand the relationship between macroscopic catalytic properties and small structures. Herein, the recent progress in both multi‐scale materials from nanoscale, sub‐nano, clusters to atomic scale for various catalytic reactions is focused. Specifically, the catalytic reaction on the microstructures and the relationship between the small scale and big science are comprehensively summarized and discussed. This review systematically spans dimensions to reveal the catalytic performances of materials at different scales with a unique effect. This is crucial for rationally understanding the composition of materials and exploring their catalytic activity. Current opportunities, future challenges, and outlooks for the application of multiscale materials (NMs, sub‐nano, cluster, and atomically dispersed materials) in catalysis, energy and environmental protection, etc. are summarized and outlined.
Curative effect of zinc‐selenium tea on rat's cardiotoxicity induced by long‐term exposure to nonylphenol
Authors: Zhang YuJie , Xu Jie , Liu Chao , Long Xianping , Zheng Mucong , He Jie , Lin Fangmei , Yu Jie
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to explore whether zinc‐selenium tea has an curative effect on the cardiotoxicity induced by nonylphenol (NP), and to compare the effect of zinc‐selenium tea and green tea. After drinking of zinc‐selenium tea or green tea, compared with the control group, the left ventricular anterior wall became thinner, and the left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter increased, the anterior wall of the left ventricle became thin at the end of diastole in the NP group. The serum myocardial enzymes aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, creatine kinase isoenzyme, lactate dehydrogenase, and α‐hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase in the NP group were significantly increased, and the serum myocardial enzymes were significantly decreased after the intervention of zinc‐selenium tea. Proteins and mRNA expressions of Collagen I and Collagen III in the tea groups were lower than those in the NP group. In the green tea and zinc‐selenium tea intervention groups, the disorder and degree of myocardial fiber were alleviated to varying degrees. The disturbance, breakage, and inflammatory cell infiltration of myocardial fibers in zinc‐selenium tea and green tea groups were less than that of NP group. After tea intervention, collagen I and collagen III in the myocardium decreased. The intervention effect of zinc‐selenium tea was better than that of green tea. Zinc‐selenium tea and green tea could interfere with the cardiotoxicity indued by NP, which would alleviate the myocardial fibrosis by reducing expressions of collagen I and collagen III. Moreover, the curative effect of zinc‐selenium tea was better than that of green tea.
Wound healing effect of Carum carvi L. on the incised skin wound in male rats: Histopathology, total protein and biomechanical evaluations
Authors: Salari Rafsanjani Mojtaba , Tabatabaei Naeini Aboutorab , Meimandi‐Parizi Abdolhamid , Nowzari Fariborz , Mujtaba Wani Muhammad , Iraji Aida
Published: October 2022

Background

The skin has several functions, one of the most important of which is to protect the internal organs from external damage and the entry of germs. Since skin and wound healing is one of the mostly concerned issues worldwide, the development of wound healing remedies is one of the main fields in modern medical research.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Cumin carvi L. seed as one of the traditional medicinal plants used for wound healing through an in vivo model.

Methods

Wide circular skin wounds (2 × 2 cm) were created on the dorsal area of 50 Sprague–Dawley male rats ​​following ethical principles. The animals were divided into five groups including no treatment, base gel, tetracycline treatment, 10% v/v hydroalcoholic extract of Cumin carvi L. seed treatment and 20% v/v hydroalcoholic extract of Cumin carvi L. seed treatment group. Treatment was performed within 20 days. On days 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10, photographs were taken, and the percentage of wound healing was calculated. Also, on the 10th day, the skin area was sampled for histopathology and on the 20th day, the skin was sampled for biomechanical and total protein assessments.

Results

The results of wound healing percentage showed that from day 3 onwards, there was a significant improvement between the group treated with 20% v/v hydroalcoholic extract of Cumin carvi L. and the negative control and basal gel groups (p < 0.05). According to histopathological and total protein content evaluations, the amount of collagen production and inflammation score in the Cumin carvi‐treated groups confirmed the healing process compared to other groups.

Conclusions

According to the results of this project, 20% v/v ethanolic extract of Cumin carvi L. has potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of skin wounds.

Wounds are one of the health concerns, and the economic burden of wound care and healing has continued to increase over the past years.

 The healing effects of C. carvi. ethanolic extract on the wound were investigated.

The histopathological and macroscopical evaluations, as well as total protein content, were measured to investigate its wound healing properties.
Single or repeated immunization against GnRH fails to completely abolish spermatogenesis in dwarf bucks (Capra hircus)
Authors: Giriboni Julia , Martínez‐Nevado Eva , García Juncal , Velázquez Rosario , Toledano‐Díaz Adolfo , Ungerfeld Rodolfo , Santiago‐Moreno Julián
Published: October 2022

In both captive wildlife and production animals is important to develop strategies for population control. Immunization against GnRH is an easy and inexpensive immunocastration method that reduces the concentration of testosterone and decreases sperm quality. However, its effectiveness depends on the species and repetition of the treatment. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of a single treatment (initial immunization plus a booster with Improvac) vs repeated treatment (six doses of Improvac) to inhibit testicular function and maintain the contraceptive status during long periods in bucks. Three Dwarf bucks (Capra hircus) received two doses of Improvac, the first on Week 0, and the booster 4 weeks later (single immunization, group SI) while three Dwarf bucks received one dose of Improvac every 6 months during 3 consecutive years (repeated immunization, group RI). The other three Dwarf bucks remained untreated (control bucks, group CON). Bucks from RI had a greater decrease in scrotal circumference, testosterone concentration, male odor intensity, and sperm quality than SI bucks. However, there were no differences between SI and CON bucks in any of the variables studied. Overall, repeated treatment of Improvac decreased the testicular function of Dwarf bucks, although did not produce complete infertility. However, the repetition of the treatment produced more intensive negative effects, indicating that the strength of the effects of Improvac is rapidly lost in bucks.
Conformal integrals in four dimensions
Authors: Pal Aritra , Ray Koushik
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We obtain analytic expressions of four-dimensional Euclidean N-point conformal integrals for arbitrary N by solving a Lauricella-like system of differential equations derived earlier. We demonstrate their relation to the GKZ A-hypergeometric systems. The conformal integrals are solutions to these expressed in terms of leg factors and infinite series in the conformal invariant cross ratios.
Soybean genetic resources contributing to sustainable protein production
Authors: Guo Bingfu , Sun Liping , Jiang Siqi , Ren Honglei , Sun Rujian , Wei Zhongyan , Hong Huilong , Luan Xiaoyan , Wang Jun , Wang Xiaobo , Xu Donghe , Li Wenbin , Guo Changhong , Qiu Li-Juan
Published: October 2022

Key message

Genetic resources contributes to the sustainable protein production in soybean.

Soybean is an important crop for food, oil, and forage and is the main source of edible vegetable oil and vegetable protein. It plays an important role in maintaining balanced dietary nutrients for human health. The soybean protein content is a quantitative trait mainly controlled by gene additive effects and is usually negatively correlated with agronomic traits such as the oil content and yield. The selection of soybean varieties with high protein content and high yield to secure sustainable protein production is one of the difficulties in soybean breeding. The abundant genetic variation of soybean germplasm resources is the basis for overcoming the obstacles in breeding for soybean varieties with high yield and high protein content. Soybean has been cultivated for more than 5000 years and has spread from China to other parts of the world. The rich genetic resources play an important role in promoting the sustainable production of soybean protein worldwide. In this paper, the origin and spread of soybean and the current status of soybean production are reviewed; the genetic characteristics of soybean protein and the distribution of resources are expounded based on phenotypes; the discovery of soybean seed protein-related genes as well as transcriptomic, metabolomic, and proteomic studies in soybean are elaborated; the creation and utilization of high-protein germplasm resources are introduced; and the prospect of high-protein soybean breeding is described.
Maternal amoxicillin affects piglets colon microbiota: microbial ecology and metabolomics in a gut model
Authors: Nissen Lorenzo , Aniballi Camilla , Casciano Flavia , Elmi Alberto , Ventrella Domenico , Zannoni Augusta , Gianotti Andrea , Bacci Maria Laura
Published: October 2022

The first weeks of life represent a crucial stage for microbial colonization of the piglets’ gastrointestinal tract. Newborns’ microbiota is unstable and easily subject to changes under stimuli or insults. Nonetheless, the administration of antibiotics to the sow is still considered as common practice in intensive farming for pathological conditions in the postpartum. Therefore, transfer of antibiotic residues through milk may occurs, affecting the piglets’ colon microbiota. In this study, we aimed to extend the knowledge on antibiotic transfer through milk, employing an in vitro dedicated piglet colon model (MICODE—Multi Unit In vitro Colon Model). The authors’ focus was set on the shifts of the piglets’ microbiota composition microbiomics (16S r-DNA MiSeq and qPCR—quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and on the production of microbial metabolites (SPME GC/MS—solid phase micro-extraction gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) in response to milk with different concentrations of amoxicillin. The results showed an effective influence of amoxicillin in piglets’ microbiota and metabolites production; however, without altering the overall biodiversity. The scenario is that of a limitation of pathogens and opportunistic taxa, e.g., Staphylococcaceae and Enterobacteriaceae, but also a limitation of commensal dominant Lactobacillaceae, a reduction in commensal Ruminococcaceae and a depletion in beneficial Bifidobactericeae. Lastly, an incremental growth of resistant species, such as Enterococcaceae or Clostridiaceae, was observed. To the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first evaluating the impact of antibiotic residues towards the piglets’ colon microbiota in an in vitro model, opening the way to include such approach in a pipeline of experiments where a reduced number of animals for testing is employed.

Key points

• Piglet colon model to study antibiotic transfer through milk.

• MICODE resulted a robust and versatile in vitro gut model.

• Towards the “3Rs” Principles to replace, reduce and refine the use of animals used for scientific purposes (Directive 2010/63/UE).

Graphical abstract
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for the Prevention of Surgical Site Infections Using Fascia Closure After EVAR—A Randomized Trial
Authors: Svensson‐Björk Robert , Hasselmann Julien , Asciutto Giuseppe , Zarrouk Moncef , Björk Jonas , Bilos Linda , Pirouzram Artai , Acosta Stefan
Published: October 2022

Background

Surgical site infections (SSI) in the groin after vascular surgery are common. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) on SSI incidence when applied on closed inguinal incisions after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).

Methods

A multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT). Between November 2013 and December 2020, 377 incisions (336 bilateral and 41 unilateral) from elective EVAR procedures with the primary intent of fascia closure were randomized and included, receiving either NPWT or a standard dressing. In bilateral incisions, each incision randomly received the opposite dressing of the other side, thereby becoming each other's control. The primary endpoint was SSI incidence at 90 days postoperatively, analyzed on an intention‐to‐treat basis. Uni and bilaterally operated incisions were analyzed separately, and their respective p‐values combined using Fisher's method for combining P‐values. Study protocol (NCT01913132).

Results

The SSI incidence at 90 days postoperatively in bilateral incisions was 1.8% (n = 3/168) in the NPWT and 4.8% (n = 8/168) in the standard dressing group, and in unilateral incisions 13.3% (n = 2/15) and 11.5% (n = 3/26), respectively (combined p = 0.49). In all SSIs, bacteria were isolated from incisional wound cultures. No additional SSIs were diagnosed between 90 days and 1 year follow‐up.

Conclusions

No evidence of difference in SSI incidence was seen in these low‐risk inguinal incisions when comparing NPWT with standard dressings after EVAR with the primary intent of fascia closure.

Clinical Trials: NCT01913132.
Optical, electrical and chemical properties of PEO:I2 complex composite films
Authors: Telfah Ahmad , Al-Bataineh Qais M. , Tolstik Elen , Ahmad Ahmad A. , Alsaad Ahmad M. , Ababneh Riad , Tavares Carlos J. , Hergenröder Roland
Published: October 2022

Synthesized PEO:I2 complex composite films with different I2 concentrations were deposited onto fused silica substrates using a dip-coating method. Incorporation of PEO films with I2 increases the electrical conductivity of the composite, reaching a maximum of 46 mS/cm for 7 wt% I2. The optical and optoelectronic properties of the complex composite films were studied using the transmittance and reflectance spectra in the UV-Vis region. The transmittance of PEO decreases with increasing I2 content. From this study, the optical bandgap energy decreases from 4.42 to 3.28 eV as I2 content increases from 0 to 7 wt%. In addition, the refractive index for PEO films are in the range of 1.66 and 2.00.1H NMR spectra of pure PEO film shows two major peaks at 3.224 ppm and 1.038 ppm, with different widths assigned to the mobile polymer chains in the amorphous phase, whereas the broad component is assigned to the more rigid molecules in the crystalline phase, respectively. By adding I2 to the PEO, both peaks (amorphous and crystal) are shifted to lower NMR frequencies indicating that I2 is acting as a Lewis acid, and PEO is acting as Lewis base. Hence, molecular iodine reacts favorably with PEO molecules through a charge transfer mechanism, and the formation of triiodide ($${\mathrm{I}}_{3}^{-}$$

I

3

-

), the iodite ($${\mathrm{IO}}_{2}^{-}$$

IO

2

-

) anion, $${\mathrm{I}}_{2} \cdot \cdot \cdot \mathrm{ PEO}$$

I
2

·
·
·
PEO

and $${\mathrm{I}}_{2}^{+} \cdot \cdot \cdot \mathrm{ PEO}$$

I

2

+

·
·
·
PEO

complexes. PEO:I2 complex composite films are expected to be suitable for optical, electrical, and optoelectronic applications.
The preoperative Hounsfield unit value at the position of the future screw insertion is a better predictor of screw loosening than other methods
Authors: Li Jingchi , Zhang Zhuang , Xie Tianhang , Song Zhetao , Song Yueming , Zeng Jiancheng
Published: October 2022

Objective

Screw loosening is a widely reported issue after spinal screw fixation and triggers several complications after lumbar interbody fusion. Osteoporosis is an essential risk factor for screw loosening. Hounsfield units (HU) value is a credible indicator during bone mineral density (BMD) evaluation. As compared with the general evaluation of BMD, we hypothesized that specific measurements of HU at the precise location of the future screw insertion may be a better predictor of screw loosening.

Methods

Clinical data of 56 patients treated by oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) of the L4-L5 segments with an anterior lateral single rod (ALSR) screw fixation were reviewed in this study. Vertebral bodies with ≥ 1 mm width radiolucent zones around the screw were defined as screw loosening. HU in the insertional screw positions, the central transverse plane, and the average values of three and four planes were measured. Regression analyses identified independent risk factors for screw loosening separately. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was computed to evaluate predictive performance.

Results

The local HU values were significantly lower in the loosening group, regardless of the selected measuring methods. The AUC of screw loosening prediction was higher in the insertional screw positions’ HU than other frequently used methods.

Conclusions

The HU value measured in the insertional screw position is a better predictor of ALSR screw loosening than other methods. The risk of screw loosening should be reduced by optimizing the trajectory of the screw based on the measurement of HU in preoperative CT.

Key Points

• Osteoporosis is an essential risk factor for screw loosening, and Hounsfield units (HU) are a credible predictor during bone mineral density (BMD) evaluation.

• The HU value measured in the insertional screw position is a better predictor of screw loosening than other frequently used HU measurement methods.

• The risk of screw loosening might potentially be reduced by optimizing the trajectory of the screw based on the measurement of HU in preoperative CT.
In-flight measurement of free-stream turbulence in the convective boundary layer
Authors: Greiner Michael , Würz Werner
Published: October 2022

Natural laminar flow airfoils have achieved such a level of refinement that further optimisation and subsequent wind tunnel testing need to regard the specific free-stream turbulence to be expected during operation. This requires the characterisation of this turbulence in terms of those properties which are relevant for boundary layer receptivity and subsequent transition. These parameters of turbulence change with environmental conditions and, in case of aircraft, along the flight profile. This study investigates the free-stream turbulence relevant for the case of sailplane airfoils. In-flight measurements with a constant temperature anemometer x-wire probe were conducted during cross-country flights in Central Europe and provided 22 h of flight data, covering thermalling phases as well as straight flight legs. Longitudinal and transversal velocity fluctuations were recorded well into the dissipation range. The special challenges of operating a constant temperature anemometer probe continuously for several hours are addressed. The permanent unsteadiness of the inflow poses challenges for the evaluation, but also provides a broad database of measured turbulence levels. The quality of the measurements is shown by verifying some of the predictions of Kolmogorov's inertial range theories. Free-stream turbulence in thermalling phases is sufficiently homogeneous to be described accurately, as the dissipation range fluctuates only in a limited range and follows a log-normal distribution. On the straight flight legs, the turbulence depends on the convective activity along the flight path. In general, within the convective part of the atmosphere, turbulence levels are found to be significantly larger than in low-turbulence wind tunnels.

Graphical abstract
Implanted haemodynamic telemonitoring devices to guide management of heart failure: a review and meta-analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Iaconelli Antonio , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Caiazzo Elisabetta , Rezig Asma O. M. , Bruzzese Dario , Maffia Pasquale , Cleland John G. F.
Published: October 2022

Background and aims

Congestion is a key driver of morbidity and mortality in heart failure. Implanted haemodynamic monitoring devices might allow early identification and management of congestion. Here, we provide a state-of-the-art review of implanted haemodynamic monitoring devices for patients with heart failure, including a meta-analysis of randomised trials.

Methods and results

We did a systematic search for pre-print and published trials in Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) on the 22nd of September 2021. We included randomised trials that compared management with or without information from implanted haemodynamic monitoring devices for patients with heart failure. Outcomes selected were hospitalisation for heart failure and all-cause mortality. Changes in treatment associated with haemodynamic monitoring resulted in only a small reduction in mean pulmonary artery pressure (typically < 1 mmHg as a daily average), which generally remained much greater than 20 mmHg. Haemodynamic monitoring reduced hospitalisations for heart failure (HR 0.75; 95% CI 0.58–0.96; p = 0.03) but not mortality (RR 0.92; 95% CI 0.68–1.26; p = 0.48).

Conclusions

Haemodynamic monitoring for patients with heart failure may reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure but this has not yet translated into a reduction in mortality, perhaps because the duration of trials was too short or the reduction in pulmonary artery pressure was not sufficiently large. The efficacy and safety of aiming for larger reductions in pulmonary artery pressure should be explored.

Graphical abstract
Epidemiology of cardiac amyloidosis in Germany: a retrospective analysis from 2009 to 2018
Authors: Ney Svenja , Ihle Peter , Ruhnke Thomas , Günster Christian , Michels Guido , Seuthe Katharina , Hellmich Martin , Pfister Roman
Published: October 2022

Background

Improved imaging modalities contributed to increasing awareness of cardiac amyloidosis. Contemporary data on frequency trends in Germany are lacking.

Methods

In a retrospective study using health claims data of a German statutory health insurance, patients with diagnostic codes of amyloidosis and concomitant heart failure between 2009 and 2018 were identified.

Results

Prevalence increased from 15.5 to 47.6 per 100,000 person-years, and incidence increased from 4.8 to 11.6 per 100,000 person-years, with a continuous steepening in the slope of incidence trend. In patients with amyloidosis and heart failure age and proportion of men significantly increased, whereas the frequency of myeloma and nephrotic syndrome significantly decreased over time. Median (IQR) survival time after first diagnosis was 2.5 years (0.5–6 years), with a 9% (95% CI 2–15%, p = 0.008) reduced risk of death in the second compared to the first 5 years of observation. In the 2 years prior and 1 year after diagnosis, mean total health care costs were 6568 €, 11,872 € and 21,955 € per person and year.

Conclusion

The rise in cardiac amyloidosis has continuously accelerated in the last decade. Considering the adverse outcome and high health care burden, further effort should be put on early detection of the disease to implement available treatment.
Retrosplenial and subicular inputs converge on superficially projecting layer V neurons of medial entorhinal cortex
Authors: Simonsen Øyvind Wilsgård , Czajkowski Rafał , Witter Menno P.
Published: October 2022

The medial entorhinal cortex (MEC) plays a pivotal role in spatial processing together with hippocampal formation. The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is also implicated in this process, and it is thus relevant to understand how these structures interact. This requires precise knowledge of their connectivity. Projections from neurons in RSC synapse onto principal neurons in layer V of MEC and some of these neurons send axons into superficial layers of MEC. Layer V of MEC is also the main target for hippocampal efferents from the subiculum and CA1 field. The aim of this study was to assess whether the population of cells targeted by RSC projections also receives input from the hippocampal formation and to compare the distribution of synaptic contacts on target dendrites. We labeled the cells in layer V of MEC by injecting a retrograde tracer into superficial layers. At the same time, we labeled RSC and subicular projections with different anterograde tracers. 3D-reconstruction of the labeled cells and axons revealed likely synaptic contacts between presynaptic boutons of both origins and postsynaptic MEC layer V basal dendrites. Moreover, these contacts overlapped on the same dendritic segments without targeting specific domains. Our results support the notion that MEC layer V neurons that project to the superficial layers receive convergent input from both RSC and subiculum. These data thus suggest that convergent subicular and RSC information contributes to the signal that neurons in superficial layers of EC send to the hippocampal formation.
Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) protocol for systematic assessment of the crashing neonate—expert consensus statement of the international crashing neonate working group
Authors: Elsayed Yasser , Wahab Muzafar Gani Abdul , Mohamed Adel , Fadel Nadya Ben , Bhombal Shazia , Yousef Nadya , Fraga María V. , Afifi Jehier , Suryawanshi Pradeep , Hyderi Abbas , Katheria Anup , Kluckow Martin , De Luca Daniele , Singh Yogen
Published: October 2022

Sudden unexpected clinical deterioration or cardiorespiratory instability is common in neonates and is often referred as a “crashing” neonate. The established resuscitation guidelines provide an excellent framework to stabilize and evaluate these infants, but it is primarily based upon clinical assessment only. However, clinical assessment in sick neonates is limited in identifying underlying pathophysiology. The Crashing Neonate Protocol (CNP), utilizing point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), is specifically designed for use in neonatal emergencies. It can be applied both in term and pre-term neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The proposed protocol involves a stepwise systematic assessment with basic ultrasound views which can be easily learnt and reproduced with focused structured training on the use of portable ultrasonography (similar to the FAST and BLUE protocols in adult clinical practice). We conducted a literature review of the evidence-based use of POCUS in neonatal practice. We then applied stepwise voting process with a modified DELPHI strategy (electronic voting) utilizing an international expert group to prioritize recommendations. We also conducted an international survey among a group of neonatologists practicing POCUS. The lead expert authors identified a specific list of recommendations to be included in the proposed CNP. This protocol involves pre-defined steps focused on identifying the underlying etiology of clinical instability and assessing the response to intervention.

Conclusion: To conclude, the newly proposed POCUS-based CNP should be used as an adjunct to the current recommendations for neonatal resuscitation and not replace them, especially in infants unresponsive to standard resuscitation steps, or where the underlying cause of deterioration remains unclear.

What is known?

• Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is helpful in evaluation of the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms in sick infants.

What is new?

• The Crashing Neonate Protocol (CNP) is proposed as an adjunct to the current recommendations for neonatal resuscitation, with pre-defined steps focused on gaining information regarding the underlying pathophysiology in unexplained “crashing” neonates.

• The proposed CNP can help in targeting specific and early therapy based upon the underlying pathophysiology, and it allows assessment of the response to intervention(s) in a timely fashion.
Effects of sugar-free polyol chewing gums on gingival inflammation: a systematic review
Authors: Söderling Eva , Pienihäkkinen Kaisu , Gursoy Ulvi Kahraman
Published: October 2022

Objectives

A systematic review of published data was conducted with the aim of assessing the effects of sugar-free polyol chewing gums on gingival inflammation.

Materials and methods

Electronic and hand searches were performed to find clinical studies concerning the effects of sugar-free chewing gums on gingival scores. Prospective randomized controlled clinical trials published between 1971 and 2021 were included in the review.

Results

The initial search identified 46 erythritol, 102 xylitol, 23 sorbitol, and nine maltitol chewing gum articles. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, seven xylitol chewing gum studies, one sorbitol, and one maltitol chewing gum study with either high or fair quality were reviewed. In five out of the seven xylitol studies, xylitol gum decreased gingival scores. In two studies, xylitol decreased gingival scores compared to a polyol gum, and in three studies compared to no gum/gum base. As for sorbitol and maltitol, only sorbitol gum chewing showed a small decrease in gingival scores compared to the controls.

Conclusions

Habitual xylitol gum chewing may reduce gingival inflammation. The low number of studies and their heterogeneity provide clear indications that the effects of sugar-free polyol chewing gums on gingival inflammation need further, well-controlled studies.

Clinical relevance

Sugar-free chewing gums, especially xylitol gum, may function as adjuncts to toothbrushing for reducing gingival inflammation, but the evidence so far is inconclusive.
Groundwater quality: global challenges, emerging threats and novel approaches
Authors: Lapworth Dan , Boving Thomas , Brauns Bentje , Dottridge Jane , Hynds Paul , Kebede Seifu , Kreamer David , Misstear Bruce , Mukherjee Abhijit , Re Viviana , Sorensen James , Vargas Claudia Ruz
Published: October 2022

Improving our understanding of groundwater quality threats to human health and the environment is essential to protect and manage groundwater resources effectively. This essay highlights some global groundwater quality challenges, describes key contaminant groups and threats of emerging concern, including antimicrobial resistance, and discusses novel approaches to assessing groundwater quality. Groundwater quality monitoring needs to improve significantly in order to effectively identify and mitigate threats to groundwater from historical, current and future pollution.
Estimating dynamic spatial panel data models with endogenous regressors using synthetic instruments
Authors: Fingleton Bernard
Published: October 2022

The paper applies synthetic instruments, initially developed for cross-sectional regression, to estimate dynamic spatial panel data models. These have two main advantages. First, instruments correlated with endogenous variables and yet independent of the errors are difficult to find. Not only are synthetic instruments normally exogenous, but they are usually strongly correlated with endogenous variables, and thus help to avoid the problem of weak instruments. Secondly, they help to reduce instrumental variables proliferation, which is a common result of standard methods of avoiding endogeneity bias. As demonstrated by Monte Carlo simulation, instrument proliferation causes bias in the Sargan–Hansen J test statistic, which is an important indicator of instrument validity and hence estimation consistency. It is also associated with a downward bias in parameter standard error estimates. The paper shows the results of applying synthetic instruments across a variety of different specifications and data generating processes, and it illustrates the method with real data leading to more reliable inference of causal impacts on the level of employment across London districts.
Carl Menger’s Smithian contributions to German political economy
Authors: Kolev Stefan , Dekker Erwin
Published: October 2022

In this paper we contextualize Carl Menger’s work in relation to the transformations of German political economy from the 1860s to the 1890s. We demonstrate that hisGrundsätze(1871) was a culmination of the German subjectivist tradition which had started in the early nineteenth century. Menger’s synthesis of this tradition is comparable to Adam Smith’s synthesis of earlier knowledge in theWealth of Nations(1776). Menger’s contribution was continuous with the intellectual project of leading German economists, such as Wilhelm Roscher, to whom Menger had dedicated his book. Roscher, however, also promoted a historical turn, that was combined with a progressive policy agenda by a new generation of German economists after they founded the Verein für Socialpolitik in 1872. These divergent Roscherian legacies clashed vehemently in the Methodenstreit. During this debate Menger elaborated in hisUntersuchungen(1883) an evolutionary and spontaneous theory of institutional change, in line with the legacy of the Scottish Enlightenment and in contrast to a more rationalist and constructivist theory of institutional change expounded by Gustav Schmoller and other Verein economists. The new policy-oriented direction of German political economy carried the day, also due the fundamental socio-economic transformations in the German and Austro-Hungarian Empires, and prompted Menger to restate in 1891 the social policy agenda of the classical political economists, most prominently Smith. Menger’s recurrent proximities to Smithian political economy – in the synthetic contribution of 1871, the theoretical innovation of 1883, and the policy agenda of 1891 – suggest that his arguments are best understood as a defense of what Boettke has called the “mainline” in economics.
Mechanical design, modeling, and identification for a novel antagonistic variable stiffness dexterous finger
Authors: Hu Handong , Liu Yiwei , Xie Zongwu , Yao Jianfeng , Liu Hong
Published: October 2022

This study traces the development of dexterous hand research and proposes a novel antagonistic variable stiffness dexterous finger mechanism to improve the safety of dexterous hand in unpredictable environments, such as unstructured or man-made operational errors through comprehensive consideration of cost, accuracy, manufacturing, and application. Based on the concept of mechanical passive compliance, which is widely implemented in robots for interactions, a finger is dedicated to improving mechanical robustness. The finger mechanism not only achieves passive compliance against physical impacts, but also implements the variable stiffness actuator principle in a compact finger without adding supererogatory actuators. It achieves finger stiffness adjustability according to the biologically inspired stiffness variation principle of discarding some mobilities to adjust stiffness. The mechanical design of the finger and its stiffness adjusting methods are elaborated. The stiffness characteristics of the finger joint and the actuation unit are analyzed. Experimental results of the finger joint stiffness identification and finger impact tests under different finger stiffness presets are provided to verify the validity of the model. Fingers have been experimentally proven to be robust against physical impacts. Moreover, the experimental part verifies that fingers have good power, grasping, and manipulation performance.
Literature reviews as independent studies: guidelines for academic practice
Authors: Kraus Sascha , Breier Matthias , Lim Weng Marc , Dabić Marina , Kumar Satish , Kanbach Dominik , Mukherjee Debmalya , Corvello Vincenzo , Piñeiro-Chousa Juan , Liguori Eric , Palacios-Marqués Daniel , Schiavone Francesco , Ferraris Alberto , Fernandes Cristina , Ferreira João J.
Published: October 2022

Review articles or literature reviews are a critical part of scientific research. While numerous guides on literature reviews exist, these are often limited to the philosophy of review procedures, protocols, and nomenclatures, triggering non-parsimonious reporting and confusion due to overlapping similarities. To address the aforementioned limitations, we adopt a pragmatic approach to demystify and shape the academic practice of conducting literature reviews. We concentrate on the types, focuses, considerations, methods, and contributions of literature reviews as independent, standalone studies. As such, our article serves as an overview that scholars can rely upon to navigate the fundamental elements of literature reviews as standalone and independent studies, without getting entangled in the complexities of review procedures, protocols, and nomenclatures.
From Age to Agency: Frame Adoption and Diffusion Concerning the International Human Rights Norm Against Child, Early, and Forced Marriage
Authors: Barney Morgan , Murdie Amanda , Park Baekkwan , Hart Jacqueline , Mullinax Margo
Published: October 2022

The way many human rights advocates frame the international norm against child, early, and forced marriage (CEFM) has shifted in the past decade. While CEFM has historically been framed as driven by poverty and underdevelopment, advocates have more recently discussed the problem with a feminist sexuality frame. What leads advocates to change their framing about an international norm? We build an argument that stresses how (a) the nature of the frame, (b) the characteristics of the advocates, and (c) the characteristics of the discursive environment interact to determine whether and to what extent advocates will adopt an alternative frame. We use a multi-methods approach (machine-learning text analysis, process tracing, and interviews) to examine the process of frame adoption around an international norm. Our theoretical understanding of international norms requires a better grasp on the role of framing, especially framing among the very norm entrepreneurs that are critical to international norm diffusion.
Strong consistency of the projected total least squares dynamic mode decomposition for datasets with random noise
Authors: Aishima Kensuke
Published: October 2022

Dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) has attracted much attention in recent years as an analysis method for time series data. In this paper, we perform asymptotic analysis on the DMD to prove strong consistency in the statistical sense. More specifically, we first give a statistical model of random noise for data with observation noise. Among many variants of the DMD, the total least squares DMD (TLS-DMD) is known as a robust method for the random noise in the observation. We focus on consistency analysis of the TLS-DMD in the statistical sense and aim to generalize the analysis for projected methods. This paper gives a general framework for designing projection methods based on efficient dimensionality reduction analogously to the proper orthogonal decomposition under the statistical model and proves its strong consistency of the estimation.
Computational Approaches and Challenges in Spatial Transcriptomics
Authors: Fang Shuangsang , Chen Bichao , Zhang Yong , Sun Haixi , Liu Longqi , Liu Shiping , Li Yuxiang , Xu Xun
Published: October 2022

The development of spatial transcriptomics (ST) technologies has transformed genetic research from a single-cell data level to a two-dimensional spatial coordinate system and facilitated the study of the composition and function of various cell subsets in different environments and organs. The large-scale data generated by these ST technologies, which contain spatial gene expression information, have elicited the need for spatially resolved approaches to meet the requirements of computational and biological data interpretation. These requirements include dealing with the explosive growth of data to determine the cell-level and gene-level expression, correcting the inner batch effect and loss of expression to improve the data quality, conducting efficient interpretation and in-depth knowledge mining both at the single-cell and tissue-wide levels, and conducting multi-omics integration analysis to provide an extensible framework toward the in-depth understanding of biological processes. However, algorithms designed specifically for ST technologies to meet these requirements are still in their infancy. Here, we review computational approaches to these problems in light of corresponding issues and challenges, and present forward-looking insights into algorithm development.
De-Professionalism and Austerity
Authors: Malin Nigel
Published: October 2022

Austerity's impacts on the healthcare, social care and education professions are under the spotlight in this important book. From scarcer resources to greater stresses, and falling training budgets to rising risks, it charts how policies and cuts have compromised workers' ability to undertake their professional roles. It combines research and practice experience to assess the extent of de-professionalisation in recent years and how workers have responded. This book is a vital review of how austerity has resculpted our notions of professionalism.
An overview of the British Library Yorùbá language collection
Authors: Túbọ̀sún Kọ́lá
Published: October 2022

The Yorùbá language materials at the British Library (BL) span the years between 1843, when the first item was published, and the present day, providing an impressive catalogue of the history of Yorùbá writing through the early days of 19th-century missionary writings with a yet undeveloped orthography, the boom of anthropological literature of the later 19th century, the creative fervour of the early and mid-20th century, and the later experimentations of 21st-century monolingual and bilingual writings. From September 2019 to September 2020, I was Chevening Research Fellow at the BL working on this wide-ranging collection with the BL’s Africa Curator. In this article, I present an analysis of what the records contain and what is missing, along with a record of some challenges I faced cataloguing the work – ranging from technological limitations to issues of orthography.
Pleasures of the Nollywood Familiar and Everyday Life
Authors: Adejunmobi Moradewun
Published: October 2022

Sequels, spinoffs, serials, and other kinds of generic works are prevalent in Nollywood filmmaking and popular with fans. These spinoffs and other generic works are characterized by a degree of familiarity, made evident in their repetitive and or affiliative dimensions. According to Adejunmobi, familiarity as a mode of media engagement in Nollywood generates specific pleasures connected to the repetitive dimensions of the films and television shows. These highly repetitive works also sustain a type of leisure activity for viewers without dedicated leisure time who combine Nollywood viewing with everyday work. This form of leisure is identified as a leisure of concomitance.
Social Needs Are Associated With Greater Anticipated Needs During an Emergency and Desire for Help in Emergency Preparedness Planning
Authors: McQueen Amy , Charles Cindy , Staten Jennifer , Broussard Darrell J. , Smith Rachel E. , Verdecias Niko , Kreuter Matthew W.
Published: October 2022

Objective:

Most emergency preparedness planning seeks to identify vulnerable population subgroups; however, focusing on chronic conditions alone may ignore other important characteristics such as location and poverty. Social needs were examined as correlates of anticipated needs and desire for assistance during an emergency.

Methods:

A retrospective, secondary analysis was conducted using assessments of 8280 adult Medicaid beneficiaries in Louisiana, linked with medical (n = 7936) and pharmacy claims (n = 7473).

Results:

The sample was 73% female; 47% Black; 34% White; mean age 41 y. Many had at least 1 chronic condition (75.9%), prescription (90.3%), and social need (45.2%). Across assessments, many reported food (40%), housing (34%), and transportation (33%) needs. However, far more people anticipated social needs during an emergency than in the next month. Having social needs increased the odds of anticipating any need (odds ratio [OR] = 1.5, 1.44-1.56) and desire for assistance during an emergency, even after controlling for significant covariates including older age, race, geographic region, Medicaid plan type, and prescriptions. Chronic conditions were significantly correlated with all anticipated needs in bivariate analyses, but only modestly associated (OR = 1.03, 1.01-1.06) with anticipated medication needs in multivariable analyses.

Conclusions:

Identifying individuals with social needs, independent of their chronic disease status, will benefit emergency preparedness outreach efforts.