bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging the Dimensional Gap from Planar Spatial Transcriptomics to 3D Cell Atlases
Authors: Lin Senlin , Wang Zhikang , Cui Yan , Zou Qi , Han Chuangyi , Yan Rui , Yang Zhidong , Zhang Wei , Gao Rui , Song Jiangning , Zhang Michael Q , Peng Hanchuan , Yu Jintai , Feng Jianfeng , Zhao Yi , Yuan Zhiyuan
Published: December 2024

Spatial transcriptomics (ST) has revolutionized our understanding of tissue architecture, yet constructing comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) cell atlases remains challenging due to technical limitations and high cost. Current approaches typically capture only sparsely sampled two-dimensional sections, leaving substantial gaps that limit our understanding of continuous organ organization. Here, we present SpatialZ, a computational framework that bridges these gaps by generating virtual slices between experimentally measured sections, enabling the construction of dense 3D cell atlases from planar ST data. SpatialZ is designed to operate at single-cell resolution and function independently of gene coverage limitations inherent to specific spatial technologies. Comprehensive validation using real 3D ST and independent serial sectioning datasets demonstrates that SpatialZ accurately reconstructs virtual slices while preserving cell identities, gene expression patterns, and spatial relationships. Leveraging the BRAIN Initiative Cell Census Network data, we constructed a 3D hemisphere atlas comprising over 38 million cells, a scale not feasible experimentally. This dense atlas enables unprecedented capabilities, includingin silicosectioning at arbitrary angles, explorations of gene expression across both 3D volumes and surfaces, and 3D mapping of query tissue sections. While currently validated for spatial transcriptomics, the underlying principles of SpatialZ could potentially be adapted for spatial proteomics, spatial metabolomics, and even spatial multi-omics. Validated through internal and external testing, our computationally generated atlas maintains biological accuracy, providing unprecedented resolution of spatial molecular landscapes and demonstrating the potential of computational approaches in advancing 3D ST.
Spawning asynchrony and mixed reproductive strategies in a common mass spawning coral
Authors: Ricardo Gerard F. , Doropoulos Christopher , Babcock Russell C. , Adam Arne A. S. , Buccheri Elizabeth , Robledo Natalia , Uribe-Palomino Julian , Mumby Peter J.
Published: December 2024

Understanding strategies of organisms that utilise multiple modes of reproduction presents a complex challenge for evolutionary biologists. Platygyra daedalea, a common reef-building coral with unclear reproductive boundaries between morphological species, illustrates these complexities. Here, we evaluate the contribution of these reproductive modes in the coral P. daedalea at Heron Island, on the southern Great Barrier Reef. We tagged and sequenced eighteen coral colonies, representing various degrees of spatial clustering, along a 130-m stretch of shallow reef slope. During spawning, divers collected eggs from each colony and placed them in mesh containers within the spawn slick, allowing free movement of sperm for fertilisation. High levels of spawning asynchrony were observed, potentially indicating distinct genetic clusters within the putative species, which resulted in low fertilisation success (1.5%). Notably, of those fertilised eggs, paternity assignments revealed that all resulting embryos were self-fertilised, with no cross-fertilisation occurring. The adult population showed evidence of two genetically distinct subpopulations, along with levels of spatial autocorrelation and inbreeding. This evidence supports the notion of small breeding populations within larger assemblages, density-dependent population effects, and localised recruitment. Selfing may serve as a reproductive assurance mechanism in such populations, which may be more hierarchically structured than previously thought. Given the lack of evidence for in situ outcrossed fertilisation in this natural coral population during split spawning, it appears that P. daedalea may rely on limited high-density patches of adults for successful cross-fertilisation, utilise atypical modes of reproduction when at low densities, and/or sustain its population through limited progeny.
Auxin and tryptophan trigger common responses in the streptophyte algaPenium margaritaceum
Authors: Carrillo-Carrasco Vanessa Polet , van Galen Martijn , Bronkhorst Jochem , Mutte Sumanth , Sprakel Joris , Hernández-García Jorge , Weijers Dolf
Published: December 2024

Auxin is a signaling molecule that regulates multiple processes in the growth and development of land plants. Research gathered from model species, particularlyArabidopsis thaliana, has revealed that the nuclear auxin pathway controls many of these processes through transcriptional regulation. Recently, a non-transcriptional pathway based on rapid phosphorylation mediated by kinases has been described, complementing the understanding of the complexity of auxin-regulated processes. Phylogenetic inferences of both pathways indicate that only some of the components are conserved beyond land plants. This raises fundamental questions about the evolutionary origin of auxin responses and whether algal sisters share mechanistic features with land plants. Here we explore auxin responses in the unicellular streptophyte algaPenium margaritaceum. By assessing physiological, transcriptomic and cellular responses we found that auxin triggers cell proliferation, gene regulation and acceleration of cytoplasmic streaming. Notably, all these responses are also triggered by the structurally related tryptophan. These results identify shared auxin response features among land plants and algae, and suggest that less chemically specific responses preceded the emergence of auxin-specific regulatory networks in land plants.
XRN1 supplies free nucleotides to feed alphavirus replication
Authors: Ruscica Vincenzo , Iselin Louisa , Hull Ryan , Embarc-Buh Azman , Narayanan Samyukta , Palmalux Natasha , Raut Namah , Gu Quan , Chen Honglin , Noerenberg Marko , de Laurent Zaydah R. , Joseph Josmi , Noble Michelle , Igreja Catia , Robertson David L. , Hughes Joseph , Mohammed Shabaz , Pelechano Vicent , Davis Ilan , Castello Alfredo
Published: December 2024

Several RNA viruses induce widespread degradation of cellular mRNAs upon infection; however, the biological significance and mechanistic details of this phenomenon remain unknown. Here, we make use of a model alphavirus, Sindbis virus (SINV), to fill this knowledge gap. We found that SINV triggers cellular RNA decay through the exonuclease XRN1 and the 5’-to-3’ degradation machinery (5-3DM). These proteins accumulate at viral replication organelles (VROs) and interact with the non-structural protein 1 (nsP1), bringing mRNA degradation into proximity with vRNA synthesis. Our data suggest that monophosphate nucleotides released by cellular RNA decay are recycled through the salvage pathway to feed viral replications. Our work thus reveals a fundamental connection between cellular mRNA degradation and viral replication via nucleotides repurposing.

Research highlights

5’-3’ RNA decay is essential for the replication of a wide range of viruses.

XRN1 directly interacts with transcripts which are degraded during infection.

RNA decay factors and salvage pathway members localise to viral factories.

Supplying nucleosides to several 5-3DM deficient cells facilitates SINV infection.
The Quorum Sensing regulated sRNA Lrs1 is involved in the adaptation to low iron inPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Dimitra , Catalán Natalia Romo , Wilcox Max , Halliday Nigel , Pantalone Paolo , Lazenby James , Cámara Miguel , Heeb Stephan
Published: December 2024

Iron is an essential nutrient for microbial growth. The opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosacan survive under diverse conditions, including iron-depleted environments with the aid of small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs).P. aeruginosaalso uses three quorum sensing (QS) systems Las, Rhl, and Pqs to coordinate virulence and infection establishment at the population level. This study links the sRNA Lrs1, which is located within the promoter of the Pqs biosynthetic operonpqsABCDE,to iron uptake regulation in theP. aeruginosastrain PAO1-L. Transcriptomics and phenotypic assays indicate that Lrs1 downregulates the production of the siderophore pyochelin but not pyoverdine, and thatlrs1regulation itself is dependent on iron availability. Although Lrs1 has been implicated in a positive feedback loop with the transcriptional regulator LasR in the strain PA14, the present findings indicate that this is not the case in PAO1-L in the tested conditions. Transcription of Lrs1 is dependent on quorum sensing, predominantly on RhlR with an auxiliary effect by PqsE. Furthermore, the Pqs system and phenazine production are modulated by Lrs1 only under iron limitation. This study identifies Lrs1 as a new QS-dependent post-transcriptional regulator of iron uptake and virulence highlighting its importance in environmental adaptation inP. aeruginosa.

Graphical abstract
Cannabinoid inhibition of mechanosensitive K+ channels
Authors: Docter Trevor , Sorum Ben , Deshmane Rahul , Doubravsky Cody , Brohawn Stephen G
Published: December 2024

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a prominent non-psychoactive small molecule produced by cannabis plants used clinically as an antiepileptic. Here, we show CBD and other cannabinoids are potent inhibitors of mechanosensitive two-pore domain K+ (K2P) channels, including TRAAK and TREK-1 that contribute to spike propagation in myelinated axons. Five TRAAK mutations that cause epilepsy or the neurodevelopmental syndrome FHEIG (facial dysmorphism, hypertrichosis, epilepsy, intellectual/developmental delay, and gingival overgrowth) retain sensitivity to cannabinoid inhibition. A cryo-EM structure reveals CBD binds in the intracellular cavity of TREK-1 to sterically block ion conduction. These results show that cannabinoids and endogenous lipids compete for a common binding site to inhibit channel activity, identify mechanosensitive K2Ps as potential physiological targets of CBD, and suggest cannabinoids could counter gain-of-function in TRAAK channelopathies.
Enhancing nondestructive mass identification via Fourier-transform fluorescence analysis
Authors: Domínguez F. , Yousaf D. , Berrocal J. , Gutiérrez M. J. , Sánchez J. , Block M. , Rodríguez D.
Published: December 2024

Single-ion mass identification is important for atomic and nuclear physics experiments on ions produced with low yields. Cooling the ion to ultralow temperatures through interaction with a laser-cooled ion will enhance the precision of the measurements. In this paper we present axial-common-mode frequency measurements of balanced and unbalanced Coulomb crystals from the Fourier transform of the fluorescence photons from a Doppler-cooling transition in calcium ions after probing the ion crystal with a five-radio-frequency comb. A single ion nondestructively detected can be used for identification, yielding a mass-resolving power m/ΔmFWHM≈310 from the axial common mode. This identification can be performed from a single measurement within times below 1 s.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Identifying Key Parameters for Reducing Recombination Losses at the
p
-
n
Junction of Chalcopyrite Thin-Film Solar Cells
Authors: Elizabeth Amala , Mönig Harry
Published: December 2024

With a record efficiency of 23.64% achieved in the past year, Cu(In,Ga)Se2 chalcopyrites are the absorbers of choice for thin-film solar cells. In these devices, the

p

-type chalcopyrite absorber and the n-type window layer form the p-n junction at the interface, which is mediated by a thin buffer layer. Due to its close proximity to the p-n junction, the defect electronic properties of the absorber surface and its interface with the buffer layer are of significant importance to limit recombination losses of photogenerated carriers. Furthermore, the recent surge in the efficiency gains have been achieved with the aid of heavy alkali-metal elements, which are implemented via a postdeposition treatment of the absorber surface. Due to the complex defect physics of chalcopyrite materials, the effects and involved processes of these alkali-metal treatments are so far not well understood. As a fundamental requirement, understanding the intrinsic defect physics of chalcopyrite absorbers and how it is influenced by various surface treatments is of significant importance. In fact, it can provide a basis to develop knowledge-based strategies to reduce recombination losses due to the presence of electronic defect levels in the vicinity of the p-n junction. To experimentally access such defects at the surface, it is essential that the chosen characterization techniques possess high surface sensitivity. Furthermore, due to the pronounced crystallographic lateral inhomogeneities of the polycrystalline chalcopyrite thin films, a high spatial resolution is desirable. A combined analytical approach using scanning probe microscopy and spectroscopy or Kelvin force microscopy and photoelectron spectroscopy methods can provide valuable insights. Despite the extensive literature available on related topics, a consolidated view of the various findings made in this regard and the direct consequences for the device efficiency is still lacking. Our review addresses the significant progress made in understanding the defect electronic properties of the chalcopyrite surface in the past decade. The findings are consolidated into five sections, which illuminate several external sources of electronic defects and surface-passivation procedures. This allows to develop specific strategies to reduce interface recombination losses for device optimization and improved solar-cell efficiencies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Synthesis and crystal structure of anti-10-(4-cyanophenyl)-10,11,22,23-tetrahydro-9H,21H-5,8:15,12-bis(metheno)[1,5,11]triazacyclohexadecino[1,16-a:5,6-a′]diindole dichloromethane monosolvate
Authors: Kubono Koji , Tani Keita , Kashiwagi Yukiyasu
Published: December 2024

The asymmetric unit of the title compound is composed of one host molecule, anti-4-(19
H,59
H-3-aza-1,5(3,9)-dicarbazolacyclooctaphane-3-yl)benzonitrile and one dichloromethane solvate molecule, C36H28N4·CH2Cl2. The host molecule possesses a planar chirality but crystallizes as a racemate in the space group P21/c. It adopts an anti-configuration, in which two carbazole rings are partially overlapped with a parallel orientation. The two carbazole ring systems are slightly bent, and the C atoms at the 3- and 1-positions show the largest deviations from the mean planes. The dihedral angle between two carbazole rings is 9.42 (3)°, forming an intramolecular parallel π–π interaction [Cg...Cg = 3.2755 (9) Å]. In the crystal, the molecules are linked via host–host and host–guest C—H...π interactions, forming chain structures along the a-axis direction. The molecules are linked into a ribbon structure along the c-axis direction by further C—H...π interactions. As a result, The molecules are cross-linked by C—H...π interactions into a three-dimensional network.
Do geopolitical uncertainty and inflation transmit opportunities or threats to green energy consumption?
Authors: Mishra Amritkant , Sahu Pritish Kumar
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of geopolitical uncertainty and inflation on green energy consumption. In addition, it aims to reveal the cause-and-effect relationship among these variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors exert the panel dynamic ordinary least squares (OLS) approach of Kao and Chiang (2000) and the Granger non-causality method of Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2011). On the other hand, current study relies on the annual time series data of 29 countries from 1985 to 2022.

Findings

The panel dynamic OLS results confirm a long-run relationship between geopolitical uncertainty, inflation and green energy consumption. On the other hand, inflation negatively impacts green energy consumption, with high inflation levels potentially halting the transition. Conversely, geopolitical uncertainty shows no significant effect on green energy use, indicating a reliance on traditional energy sources. Moreover, the current investigation reveals the unidirectional causality from green energy consumption to inflation, while no short-run causality exists from inflation as well as geopolitical uncertainty to green energy consumption in the selected countries.

Research limitations/implications

The authors drew conclusions about the potential impact of geopolitical uncertainty and inflation on green energy uses by considering the macro-level data. However, this investigation further be enhanced by looking at such issues through the micro perspective by understating the thought and perspective of public on the implication of geopolitical uncertainty and inflation on green energy uses. Such micro-level, country-specific study would definitely help us to generate more concrete ideas about such themes.

Practical implications

The empirical findings have important implications for policymakers. Results suggest that high inflation negatively impacts green energy use, so policymakers must consider implementing measures to control the inflation while promoting green energy uses for economic prosperity and environmental sustainability. In the short run, green energy use leads to inflation. Therefore, macroeconomic policymakers can implement various subsidy policies for the general public to mitigate the short-term inflationary impact of green energy use.

Originality/value

This investigation is novel in three ways. First, it explores the impact of geopolitical uncertainty and inflation on green energy use, using Caldara and Iacoviello’s (2022) geopolitical risk index as a proxy of geopolitical uncertainty. Second, it uses panel data econometric analysis, a method that most previous studies have not contemplated for this type of investigation. Finally, by including both advanced and emerging economies, it provides valuable insights for policymakers to develop effective strategies related to green energy consumption for achieving sustainable economic development.
Design of a force-controlled end-effector based on the pneumatic artificial muscle for robotic polishing
Authors: Wu Jianxuan , Song Chenyang , Xiao Sa , Lu Yuankai , Wu Haibin
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Polishing is a crucial process in mechanical manufacturing. The use of industrial robots to automate polishing is an inevitable trend in future developments. However, current robotic polishing tools are too large to reach inside deep holes or grooves in workpieces. This study aims to use a pneumatic artificial muscle (PAM) as the actuator and designs a force-controlled end-effector to reach inside the deep and narrow areas in the workpiece.

Design/methodology/approach

This approach first addresses the challenge of converting the tensile force generated by the PAM into pushing force through mechanism design. In addition, a dynamics model of the end-effector was established based on the three-element model of the PAM. A combined control strategy was proposed to enhance force control accuracy and adaptability during the polishing process.

Findings

Experiments were conducted on a robotic platform equipped with the proposed end-effector. The experimental results demonstrate that the end-effector can polish the inner end face of holes or grooves with diameters as small as 80 mm and depths reaching 200 mm. By implementing the combined control strategies, the target force tracking error was reduced by 48.66% compared to the use of the PID controller alone.

Originality/value

A new force-controlled end-effector based on the PAM is designed for robotic polishing. According to the experimental result, this end-effector can polish not only the outer surfaces of the workpiece but also the internal surfaces of workpieces with deep holes or grooves specifically. By using the combined control strategy proposed in this paper, the end-effector significantly improves force control precision and polishing quality.
Internal auditors and crisis management: a post-crisis outcome evaluation
Authors: Gao Xinghua , Jaggi Jacob , Yan Han
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to understand how internal auditors in public US universities respond to and manage crises. As part of the post-crisis outcomes evaluation and learning process, the authors examine how internal auditors in public US universities manage their work and resources during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

To motivate the study, the authors analyze internal audit-related information from universities’ audit committee meeting records during the pandemic. Subsequently, the authors conduct semi-structured interviews with chief audit executives (CAEs) and senior internal auditors to learn about their experiences during the pandemic crisis.

Findings

Through the lens of the organizational resilience framework, the authors find that when managing crises, CAEs in US universities play a leading role in providing institutional and emotional support to staff; securing organizational, financial and technical backing from management and audit committees and exercising flexibility in using available resources. Additionally, internal auditors must assess the internal and external environments during crises and adjust their operations accordingly. Increasing professional outreach also helps internal auditors mobilize additional resources in adversity. To thrive in the post-pandemic era, when remote working models become popular, internal auditors need to increase informal communication with management and audit committees and sharpen their data analytics skills.

Originality/value

The study provides an opportunity for internal auditors and their stakeholders to reflect on the wins and losses during the pandemic and prepare for future challenges. The authors propose extending Kimberlin et al.’s (2011) organizational resilience framework by adding a communication factor.
Crafting an urban restorative model from bibliometric analysis of neuro-urbanism literature
Authors: Elsayed Mirame , Elshater Abeer , Shehayeb Dina , Afifi Samy
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Neuro-urbanism is an emerging field focused on addressing global urban challenges by examining the impact of urban living on stress levels and mental well-being. The restorative environment approach has been widely applied to measure stress and mental health outcomes. Although there is a recognised relationship between neuro-urbanism and restorative environments, further exploration of literature is needed. This paper aims to propose a conceptual urban restorative model that leverages neuro-urbanism to explore the potential of various urban space typologies and their associated urban design qualities in fostering restorative environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This review article utilised VOSviewer to conduct a bibliometric analysis of data from Scopus and PubMed, focusing on neuro-urbanism and restorative environments. Our study explored the intersection of neuroscience and urbanism in designing environments that enhance mental well-being by mapping keyword co-occurrences and analysing citation networks. It identified research clusters, emerging trends and literature gaps, offering a detailed overview of how these fields intersect and influence each other.

Findings

Our findings have revealed significant links between these fields, paving the way for the proposed restorative model. This model, derived from the literature, outlines the types of restorative environments, managing domains and theories integrating intangible and tangible urban design qualities using features and variables.

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations, as the proposed urban restorative model was developed using data from a literature review of databases such as Scopus and PubMed without testing its application in a real-world case study. Nevertheless, the urban restorative model provides valuable insights that can support urban designers, planners and public health organisations in evaluating restorative environments, which may enhance mental well-being and reduce stress in urban settings.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the broader understanding of how urban design can influence mental well-being and provides actionable keys for improving the quality of life in urban settings.
Measuring consumer perceptions towards S-commerce: scale development and validation
Authors: Vij Sandeep , Kaur Balpreet
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to develop and validate a comprehensive scale for measuring consumer perceptions towards social commerce (S-Commerce). With the growing prominence of social media platforms in electronic commerce (e-commerce), understanding consumer perceptions and attitudes is essential for businesses and researchers alike.

Design/methodology/approach

The scale development process involved an extensive literature review and expert assessments to construct a robust measurement tool. Subsequently, the scale was administered to a diverse sample of respondents, and confirmatory factor analysis was performed to assess its reliability and validity.

Findings

The results confirm the scale’s internal consistency and discriminant validity, contributing to making it a valuable instrument for capturing consumer perceptions towards S-commerce. Eight factors were explored using exploratory factor analysis, namely, “satisfaction and advocacy of S-commerce,” “usability and enjoyment of S-commerce,” “trust and familiarity in S-commerce,” “trust in S-commerce policies,” “familiarity with S-commerce platforms,” “financial trust and security in S-commerce,” “price and rating influence on S-commerce shopping” and “perceived value and social expectations in S-commerce.”

Practical implications

This research contributes to understanding S-commerce from a consumer perspective, aiding businesses in tailoring their strategies and enhancing the academic discourse on this evolving e-commerce phenomenon.

Originality/value

This study primarily develops a comprehensive scale to measure consumer perceptions of S-commerce sites, contributing to a deeper understanding of the factors driving consumer perceptions in this evolving digital landscape.
Novel bioabsorbable, low‐dose rate brachytherapy device (CivaSheet®) with radical prostatectomy and adjuvant external beam radiation for the management of prostate cancer
Authors: Okhawere Kennedy E. , Razdan Shirin , Beksac Alp Tuna , Saini Indu , Zuluaga Laura , Meilika Kirolos , Ucpinar Burak , Sheu Ren‐Dih , Mehrazin Reza , Sfakianos John , Tewari Ashutosh , Stock Richard G. , Badani Ketan
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the safety and cancer control of a novel bioabsorbable, low‐dose rate brachytherapy device, CivaSheet® (CivaTech Oncology Inc., Durham, NC, USA), in combination with radical prostatectomy (RP) with or without adjuvant external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for the management of prostate cancer (PCa).

Patients and Methods

This is an initial, single‐centre experience, two‐dose level, two‐stage study conducted on patients with intermediate‐ and high‐risk PCa. The CivaSheet was implanted during RP, followed by adjuvant EBRT in patients with adverse pathological features. Toxicities and peri‐ and postoperative complications were assessed. Biochemical recurrence (BCR) at the 6‐month follow‐up after EBRT was also evaluated.

Results

Six patients were enrolled, with a median (range) age of 56 (53–71) years. No intraoperative complications occurred. No dose‐limiting toxicities were observed at a maximum tested dose of 75 Gy. BCR occurred in one patient at 6 months, while another patient had residual disease and metastasis at 6 months. All patients reported having postoperative erectile dysfunction and one patient experienced urinary incontinence after EBRT.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the feasibility and safety of CivaSheet combined with RP and adjuvant EBRT for high‐risk PCa. The short‐term toxicity profile was well‐tolerated, supporting further prospective evaluation with clinical trials.
Endogenous equity shares in duopoly markets with product differentiation
Authors: Li Yi
Published: December 2024

Firms can form partial passive ownership arrangements by acquiring equity shares in competitors' profits. We consider a duopoly model in which products are differentiated along both vertical and horizontal dimensions and one firm may acquire the other firm's equity shares before they engage in strategic competition. We identify equilibrium equity shares and characterize how the choice of equity shares depends on three previously unexplored factors: (i) the size of the market, (ii) the degree of horizontal product differentiation and (iii) the degree of vertical product differentiation. Whether an increase in the size of the market increases firm's incentive to hold a stake in the rival depends on whether the acquiring firm is a high‐quality firm or a low‐quality firm. The effect of vertical product differentiation also depends on the type of the acquiring firm, high‐quality vis‐à‐vis low‐quality. On the contrary, an increase in horizontal product differentiation can increase firm's incentive to hold a stake in the rival, irrespective of the type of the acquiring firm. We also find that the equilibrium levels of consumer welfare and social welfare may be lower compared to the case of no partial passive ownership.
Development of a model predicting falls in older emergency department patients using smartphone‐based mobility measures
Authors: Suffoletto Brian , Kim David , Toth Caitlin , Mayer Waverly , Ashenburg Nick , Lin Michelle , Losak Michael
Published: December 2024

Objective

While emergency departments (EDs) are crucial for identifying patients at risk for falls, existing fall risk measures are often inaccurate. This study aimed to assess whether iPhone sensor‐based mobility measures collected after ED discharge can improve fall prediction compared with traditional ED‐based screening measures.

Methods

This single‐center, observational cohort study recruited ED patients aged 60 or older who owned an iPhone. Participants completed baseline assessments, downloaded a custom app to track mobility measures from the iPhone, and were followed for 90 days post‐discharge. Fall outcomes were self‐reported via the app or follow‐up phone calls. Logistic regression and the LASSO technique were employed to identify significant predictors. The discriminative ability of the models was assessed by comparing the C‐statistics.

Results

Of the 149 participants enrolled, 76.5% (N = 114) provided at least 7 days of post‐discharge iPhone sensor‐based mobility data. The cohort had a mean age of 73 years, with 16.7% (N = 19) experiencing a fall. Participants who fell showed a significantly greater increase in daily steps over time compared with those who did not (p = 0.002). The extended logistic regression model, by incorporating mean gait asymmetry and change in step count, demonstrated a higher but nonsignificant improvement in discriminative ability (C‐statistic = 0.84) compared with the base model (C‐statistic = 0.79).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that iPhone mobility measures collected after ED discharge can enhance fall prediction relative to self‐reported fall risk screening questions in older adults. The strongest mobility predictors were gait asymmetry and changes in step count. While the findings suggest that post‐discharge mobility monitoring could improve fall prevention strategies, further validation in diverse populations is necessary.
Evaluating the effectiveness of the education program developed for the empowerment of new graduate nurses: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sarıköse Seda , Çelik Sevilay Şenol
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of the education program developed based on the structural empowerment (SE) and psychological empowerment (PE) theories and flipped classroom model for the empowerment of new graduate nurses (NGNs).

Design

Single‐center, parallel‐group, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

The study was conducted between June 2021 and September 2023 in two phases: developing the education program to empower NGNs and evaluating its effectiveness. An education program consisting of two parts, online and face‐to‐face, was developed. The online part consists of eight modules implemented for two weeks. The face‐to‐face part was implemented for two days and included the in‐class activities. NGNs were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n: 32) and control group (n: 32). An education program was applied to the intervention group, whereas the control group continued their routine orientation program. A range of outcome measures of SE, PE, and education programs' effectiveness were evaluated. Data were analyzed using descriptive, chi‐squared, and t‐tests.

Results

The study determined that the intervention and control groups showed homogeneous distribution in the pretest. A statistically significant difference was identified between the intervention and control groups regarding the mean scores of PE and SE three months following the implementation of the education program, and the total mean score of the intervention group was higher.

Conclusion

The education program developed to empower NGNs was a highly effective intervention in increasing nurses' perceptions of SE and PE. There is a need to carry out studies and activities to disseminate this program.

Clinical Relevance

The findings of this study will guide educators, researchers, and administrators in future strategies and innovative programs for empowering NGNs.
Incidental Vocabulary Acquisition Through Captioned Viewing: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Kurokawa Satsuki , Hein Aung Myo , Uchihara Takumi
Published: December 2024

Second language (L2) viewing with captions (i.e., L2 on‐screen text) is now a proliferating as well as promising area of L2 acquisition research. The goal of the present meta‐analysis was to examine (a) the relationship between captioned viewing and incidental vocabulary learning and (b) what variables related to learners, treatment, methodology, and vocabulary tests moderate the captioning effect. Synthesizing 89 effect sizes from 49 primary studies (i.e., independent experiments), we fitted a multilevel meta‐analysis model with restricted maximum likelihood estimation to calculate the overall effect size based on a standardized mean difference of gain scores between captioned viewing and uncaptioned viewing groups. The results showed a medium effect of captioning on L2 vocabulary learning, g = 0.56, p <.001. Moderator analysis indicated moderating effects of instructional level, target audience of video materials, and administration of vocabulary pretest. These results are discussed with the aim of guiding future research and language learning through viewing.
Integrating spatial and channel attention mechanisms with domain knowledge in convolutional neural networks for friction coefficient prediction
Authors: Weng Zihang , Liu Chenglong , Du Yuchuan , Wu Difei , Leng Zhen
Published: December 2024

The pavement skid resistance is crucial for ensuring driving safety. However, the reproducibility and comparability of field measurements are constrained by various influencing factors. One solution to these constraints is utilizing laser‐based 3D pavement data, which are notably stable and can be employed to estimate pavement skid resistance indirectly. However, the integration of tire–road friction mechanisms and deep neural networks has not been fully studied. This study employed spatial‐channel attention mechanisms to integrate frictional domain knowledge and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) that predict the friction coefficient as the output. The models’ inputs include 3D texture data, corresponding finite element (FE) simulation outcomes, and 2D wavelet decomposition outcomes. An additional spatial attention (ASA) mechanism guided the CNNs to focus on the tire–road contact region, using tire–road contact stress from FE simulation as domain knowledge. Multi‐scale channel attention (MSCA) mechanisms enabled the CNNs to learn the channel weights of 2D‐wavelet‐based multi‐scale inputs, thereby assessing the contribution of different texture scales to tire–road friction. A multi‐attention and feature fusion mechanism was designed, and the performances of various combinations were compared. The results showed that the fusion of ASA and MSCA achieved the best performance, with a regression R2 of 0.8470, which was a 20.25% improvement over the baseline model.
Identification of fossil juniper seeds from Rancho La Brea (California, USA): drought and extirpation in the Late Pleistocene
Authors: George Jessie , Dimson Monica , Dunn Regan E. , Lindsey Emily L. , Farrell Aisling B. , Aguilar Brenda Paola , MacDonald Glen M.
Published: December 2024

Juniperus spp. are keystone shrubs in western North America and important climatic indicators in paleo‐records. However, a lack of taxonomic resolution among fossil species limits our ability to track past environmental changes. Plant macrofossils at Rancho La Brea (RLB) allow for reconstructions of juniper occurrence to species across 60 000 yr.

We use microscopy, image analysis, species distribution modeling (SDM), and radiocarbon dating to identify an unknown Juniperus species at RLB and put it into chronological context with fossil Juniperus californica at the site to infer past environmental conditions.

We identify the unknown taxon as Juniperus scopulorum Sargent, 1897. The Pleistocene occurrence of this species in California expands its known distribution and documents its extirpation. Temporal ranges of the two fossil junipers alternate, revealing a pattern of differential climatic sensitivity throughout the end of the Pleistocene.

Occurrence patterns suggest sensitivity to temperature, moisture availability, and the presence of two mega‐droughts at c. 48–44.5 ka and c. 29.3–25.2 ka. Extirpation of both taxa by c. 13 ka is likely driven by climate, megafaunal extinction, and increasing fire. The extirpation of fossil junipers during these past climatic events demonstrates vulnerability of juniper species in the face of global change.
MdHY5 positively regulates cold tolerance in apple by integrating the auxin and abscisic acid pathways
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Wei Jiangtong , Li Sujuan , Li Jiang , Cao Huifang , Huang Dong , Zhang Danni , Zhang Zhijun , Gao Tengteng , Zhang Ying , Ma Fengwang , Li Chao
Published: December 2024

Low‐temperature stress causes various types of physiological and biochemical damage to plants. The basic leucine zipper (bZIP) family transcription factor HY5 plays a significant role in multiple stress responses in plants.

Here, cold stress was found to induce the upregulation of MdHY5 expression, which, in turn, positively regulates the cold tolerance of apple (Malus domestica). MdHY5 directly interacts the promoters of MdGH3‐2/12 (auxin‐amido synthetase) and inhibits their expression. However, low‐temperature stress inhibits the regulation of MdGH3‐2/12 by MdHY5, which suppresses the increase in indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) mediated by the MdHY5‐MdGH3‐2/12 module.

Alternatively, MdHY5 directly interacts with the promoter of MdNCED2, a crucial enzyme in the biosynthesis of abscisic acid (ABA), thereby activating its expression. Additionally, cold stress enhances the regulation of MdNCED2 by MdHY5, which leads to the promotion of the increase in ABA mediated by the MdHY5‐MdNCED2 module. Therefore, under low‐temperature stress, MdHY5 reduces the ratio of IAA : ABA within apple plants by regulating MdGH3‐2/12 and MdNCED2, thereby indirectly promoting the accumulation of anthocyanins, which further improves the cold tolerance of apple.

This study establishes a theoretical framework for the multiple roles and regulatory mechanisms of HY5 in integrating the IAA and ABA pathways under cold stress.
Impact of reduced spectral resolution on temporal-coherence–based source segregation
Authors: Viswanathan Vibha , Heinz Michael G. , Shinn-Cunningham Barbara G.
Published: December 2024

Hearing-impaired listeners struggle to understand speech in noise, even when using cochlear implants (CIs) or hearing aids. Successful listening in noisy environments depends on the brain's ability to organize a mixture of sound sources into distinct perceptual streams (i.e., source segregation). In normal-hearing listeners, temporal coherence of sound fluctuations across frequency channels supports this process by promoting grouping of elements belonging to a single acoustic source. We hypothesized that reduced spectral resolution—a hallmark of both electric/CI (from current spread) and acoustic (from broadened tuning) hearing with sensorineural hearing loss—degrades segregation based on temporal coherence. This is because reduced frequency resolution decreases the likelihood that a single sound source dominates the activity driving any specific channel; concomitantly, it increases the correlation in activity across channels. Consistent with our hypothesis, our physiologically inspired computational model of temporal-coherence–based segregation predicts that CI current spread reduces comodulation masking release (CMR; a correlate of temporal-coherence processing) and speech intelligibility in noise. These predictions are consistent with our online behavioral data with simulated CI listening. Our model also predicts smaller CMR with increasing levels of outer-hair-cell damage. These results suggest that reduced spectral resolution relative to normal hearing impairs temporal-coherence–based segregation and speech-in-noise outcomes.
Billing for Exercise Is Medicine: An Analysis of Reimbursement Trends for Physical Activity–Related Billing Codes
Authors: Carr Lucas J. , Marcussen Britt , Slayman Tyler , Wu Yin , Bond Dale S.
Published: December 2024

Background: Physical inactivity is a significant health risk factor linked to chronic diseases and premature death. To address this, initiatives like Exercise is Medicine® aim to promote physical activity in health care systems. However, integrating physical activity counseling into clinical practice faces barriers such as limited reimbursement. Understanding billing practices and reimbursement rates for physical activity counseling is crucial for its integration into health care. Methods: This study used 12 months of billing data from a large midwestern US hospital. Variables included charges, charge amounts, primary payors, reimbursement rates, and denial rates associated with International Classification of Diseases-10 diagnosis codes, and Evaluation and Management billing codes for physical activity counseling. Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with denial rates. Results: Over 12 months, 19,366 lifestyle-related charges were submitted, totaling $7,842,845. Of these, 5.28% were denied, amounting to $414,446. The most common International Classification of Diseases-10 codes were “obesity” (38.8%) and “sedentary lifestyle” (32.6%), while the most common Evaluation and Management codes were for established outpatient office visits. Charges were mainly submitted to employer-paid insurance (43.5%), Medicaid (22.2%), and Medicare (21.9%). Higher odds of denial were associated with newer patients, shorter visit lengths, and the sedentary lifestyle code. Conclusion: This study provides novel data on the use, reimbursement, and denial rates of physical activity counseling billing codes in a large health care system. Physical activity counseling-related charges are rarely denied by third-party payors. Further research is needed to determine if these findings are generalizable to other US health care systems.
Trapezius Muscle Electromyographic Activity in Lawn-Mower Exercise: Standing Versus Quadruped
Authors: Ecemıs Zeynep Berfu , Cobanoglu Gamze , Oksuz Burcu Sena , Kaya Betul , Guzel Nevin A. , Kafa Baris , Kafa Nihan
Published: December 2024

Context: In shoulder rehabilitation, exercises that reduce upper trapezius (UT) activity and optimize the trapezius muscle activation rate reduce the symptoms of shoulder pathologies. One such exercise, the lawn-mower (LM) exercise, is frequently used in scapular rehabilitation protocols due to its multijoint, multiplanar, and kinetic chain-based nature. Design/Objective: This study aimed to compare trapezius muscle activation levels and ratios during the LM exercise in standing and quadruped positions through a randomized controlled trial. Methods: Eighteen healthy volunteers (mean age [SD] = 25 [5] y, 10 women and 8 men, mean body mass index [SD] = 22.91 [2.59] kg/m2) participated in the study, and surface electromyography was employed to measure trapezius muscle activity during quadruped LM (QLM) and standing LM (SLM) exercises. The data were normalized as a percentage of maximal voluntary contraction. Results: The study revealed significantly lower UT activity (percentage of maximal voluntary contraction) during QLM compared with SLM (P < .05) in concentric and isometric phases. Conversely, QLM exhibited significantly higher activation of the middle trapezius (MT) and lower trapezius (LT) in all phases when compared with SLM (P < .05). UT/MT and UT/LT ratios were also significantly lower in all QLM phases compared with SLM (P < .05). Conclusion: Study findings suggest that quadruped exercises reduce UT activation while promoting more balanced MT and LT muscle activation. This balance is essential for shoulder rehabilitation, especially in cases requiring minimal UT activation and maximal MT and LT activation. In cases where a balanced trapezius muscle activation pattern is required, including QLM exercises rather than SLM exercises may be more efficient.
Architecture of the high-affinity immunoglobulin E receptor
Authors: Zhang Zhikuan , Yui Moeko , Ohto Umeharu , Shimizu Toshiyuki
Published: December 2024

The high-affinity immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptor (FcεRI) drives type I hypersensitivity in response to allergen-specific IgE. FcεRI is a multimeric complex typically composed of one α, one β, and two disulfide-linked γ subunits. The α subunit binds to the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region of IgE (Fcε), whereas the β and γ subunits mediate signaling through their intracellular immunoreceptor tyrosine–based activation motifs (ITAMs). Here, we report cryo–electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the apo state of FcεRI and of FcεRI bound to Fcε. At the transmembrane domain (TMD), the α and γ subunits associate to form a tightly packed, three-helix bundle (αγ
2
bundle) with pseudo-threefold symmetry through extensive hydrophobic and polar interactions. The αγ
2
bundle further assembles with the β subunit to complete the TMD, from which multiple ITAMs might extend into the cytoplasm for downstream signaling. The apo mouse FcεRI essentially forms an identical structure to that of the Fcε-bound sensitized form, suggesting that the binding of Fcε to FcεRI does not alter the overall conformation of the receptor. Furthermore, the juxtamembrane interaction between the extracellular domains (ECDs) of mouse FcεRIα and FcεRIβ is not observed between their human counterparts, which implies potential species-specific differences in receptor stability and activation. Our findings provide a framework for understanding the general structural principles underlying Fc receptor assembly, the signaling mechanism underlying type I hypersensitivity, and the design of efficient antiallergic therapeutics.