bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resting state brain network segregation is associated with walking speed and working memory in older adults
Authors: Sato Sumire D. , Shah Valay A. , Fettrow Tyler , Hall Kristina G. , Tays Grant D. , Cenko Erta , Roy Arkaprava , Clark David J. , Ferris Daniel P. , Hass Chris J. , Manini Todd M. , Seidler Rachael D.
Published: May 2024

Older adults exhibit larger individual differences in walking ability and cognitive function than young adults. Characterizing intrinsic brain connectivity differences in older adults across a wide walking performance spectrum may provide insight into the mechanisms of functional decline in some older adults and resilience in others. Thus, the objectives of this study were to: (1) determine whether young adults and high– and low-functioning older adults show group differences in brain network segregation, and (2) determine whether network segregation is associated with working memory and walking function in these groups. The analysis included 21 young adults and 81 older adults. Older adults were further categorized according to their physical function using a standardized assessment; 54 older adults had low physical function while 27 were considered high functioning. Structural and functional resting state magnetic resonance images were collected using a Siemens Prisma 3T scanner. Working memory was assessed with the NIH Toolbox list sorting test. Walking speed was assessed with a 400 m-walk test at participants’ self-selected speed. We found that network segregation in mobility-related networks (sensorimotor, vestibular) was higher in older adults with higher physical function compared to older adults with lower physical function. There were no group differences in laterality effects on network segregation. We found multivariate associations between working memory and walking speed with network segregation scores. The interaction of left sensorimotor network segregation and age groups was associated with higher working memory function. Higher left sensorimotor, left vestibular, right anterior cingulate cortex, and interaction of left anterior cingulate cortex network segregation and age groups were associated with faster walking speed. These results are unique and significant because they demonstrate higher network segregation is largely related to higher physical function and not age alone.

Highlights

Older adults with high and low physical function have network segregation differences.

Network segregation for high-functioning older adults was more similar to that of young adults.

Laterality of functional network segregation is not different between age groups.

Higher network segregation is associated with faster walking speed.
Sound perception in realistic surgery scenarios: Towards EEG-based auditory work strain measures for medical personnel
Authors: Rosenkranz Marc , Haupt Thorge , Jaeger Manuela , Uslar Verena N. , Bleichner Martin G.
Published: May 2024

Surgical personnel face various stressors in the workplace, including environmental sounds. Mobile electroencephalography (EEG) offers a promising approach for objectively measuring how individuals perceive sounds. In this study, we utilized mobile EEG to explore how a realistic soundscape is perceived during simulated laparoscopic surgery. To examine the varying demands placed on personnel in different situations, we manipulated the cognitive demand during the surgical task, using a memory task. To assess responses to the soundscape, we calculated event-related potentials for distinct sound events and temporal response functions for the ongoing soundscape. Although participants reported varying degrees of demand under different conditions, no significant effects were observed on surgical task performance or EEG parameters. However, changes in surgical task performance and EEG parameters over time were noted, while subjective results remained consistent over time. These findings highlight the importance of using multiple measures to fully understand the complex relationship between sound processing and cognitive demand. Furthermore, in the context of combined EEG and audio recordings in real-life scenarios, sparse representations of the soundscape have advantages over more detailed representations. Our results indicate that both types of representations are equally effective in eliciting neural responses. Overall, this study marks a significant step towards objectively investigating sound processing in applied settings.
Benchmarking methods for mapping functional connectivity in the brain
Authors: Liu Zhen-Qi , Luppi Andrea I. , Hansen Justine Y. , Tian Ye Ella , Zalesky Andrew , Yeo B.T. Thomas , Fulcher Ben D. , Misic Bratislav
Published: May 2024

The networked architecture of the brain promotes synchrony among neuronal populations and the emergence of coherent dynamics. These communication patterns can be comprehensively mapped using noninvasive functional imaging, resulting in functional connectivity (FC) networks. Despite its popularity, FC is a statistical construct and its operational definition is arbitrary. While most studies use zero-lag Pearson's correlations by default, there exist hundreds of pairwise interaction statistics in the broader scientific literature that can be used to estimate FC. How the organization of the FC matrix varies with the choice of pairwise statistic is a fundamental methodological question that affects all studies in this rapidly growing field. Here we comprehensively benchmark the topological and geometric organization, neurobiological associations, and cognitive-behavioral relevance of FC matrices computed using a large library of 239 pairwise interaction statistics. We comprehensively investigate how canonical features of FC networks vary with the choice of pairwise statistic, including (1) hub mapping, (2) weight-distance trade-offs, (3) structure-function coupling, (4) correspondence with other neurophysiological networks, (5) individual fingerprinting, and (6) brain-behavior prediction. We find substantial quantitative and qualitative variation across FC methods. Throughout, we observe that measures such as covariance (full correlation), precision (partial correlation) and distance display multiple desirable properties, including close correspondence with structural connectivity, the capacity to differentiate individuals and to predict individual differences in behavior. Using information flow decomposition, we find that differences among FC methods may arise from differential sensitivity to the underlying mechanisms of inter-regional communication, with some more sensitive to redundant and some to synergistic information flow. In summary, our report highlights the importance of tailoring a pairwise statistic to a specific neurophysiological mechanism and research question, providing a blueprint for future studies to optimize their choice of FC method.
Real-World Evidence BRIDGE: a tool to connect protocol with code programming
Authors: Cid Royo A. , Elbers R. , Weibel D. , Hoxhaj V. , Kurkcuoglu Z. , Sturkenboom M. , Andres Vaz T. , Andaur Navarro CL.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Methods

Several statistical analysis plans (SAP) from the Vaccine Monitoring Collaboration for Europe (VAC4EU) were analyzed to identify the study design sections and specifications for programming RWE studies based on multi-databases standardized to common data models. We envisioned a metadata schema that transforms the epidemiologist’s knowledge into a machine-readable format. This machine-readable metadata schema must also contain the different study sections, code lists, and time anchoring specified in the SAPs. Further desired attributes are adaptability and user-friendliness.

Results

We developed RWE-BRIDGE, a metadata schema with a star-schema model divided into four study design sections with 12 tables: Study Variable Definition with two tables, Cohort Definition with two tables, Post-Exposure Outcome Analysis with one table, and Data Retrieval with seven tables. We provide examples and a step-by-step guide to populate this metadata schema. In addition, we provide a Shiny app that checks the several tables proposed in this metadata strategy. RWE-BRIDGE is available athttps://github.com/UMC-Utrecht-RWE/RWE-BRIDGE.

Discussion

The RWE-BRIDGE has been designed to support the translation of study design sections from statistical analysis plans into analytical pipelines, facilitating collaboration and transparency between lead researchers and scientific programmers and reducing hard coding and repetition. This metadata schema strategy is flexible by supporting different common data models and programming languages, and it is adaptable to the specific needs of each SAP by adding further tables or fields, if necessary. Modified versions of the RWE-BRIGE have been applied in several RWE studies within the VAC4EU ecosystem.

Conclusion

The RWE-BRIDGE offers a systematic approach to detailing what type of variables, time anchoring, and algorithms are required for a specific RWE study. Applying this metadata schema can facilitate the communication between epidemiologists and programmers in a transparent manner.
Exposure-Response to High PM2.5Levels for Cardiovascular Events in High-risk Older Adults in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Shu-Ping , Su Chien-Chou , Lin Chuan-Yao , Nethery Rachel , Josey Kevin , Bates Benjamin , Robinson David , Gandhi Poonam , Rua Melanie , Parthasarathi Ashwaghosha , Setoguchi Soko , Kao Yang Yea-Huei
Published: May 2024

Background

Multiple studies from countries with relatively lower PM2.5level demonstrated that acute and chronic exposure even at lower than recommended level, e.g., 9 μg/m3in the US increased the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events. However, limited studies using individual level data exist from countries with a wider range of PM levels to illustrate shape of the exposure-response curve throughout the range including > 20 μg/m3PM2·5concentrations. Taiwan with its policies reduced PM2.5over time provide opportunities to illustrate the dose response curves and how reductions of PM2.5over time correlated with CV events incidence in a nationwide sample.

Methods

Using data from the 2009-2019 Taiwan National Health Insurance Database linked to nationwide PM2.5 data. We examined the shape and magnitude of the exposure-response curve between seasonal average PM2·5level and CV events-related hospitalizations among older adults at high-risk for CV events. We used history-adjusted marginal structural models including potential confounding by individual demographic factors, baseline comorbidities, and health service measures. To quantify the risk below and above 20 μg/m3we conducted stratified Cox regression. We also plotted PM2.5and CV events from 2009-2019 as well as average temperature as a comparison.

Findings

Using the PM2.5concentration <15 μg/m3(Taiwan regulatory standard) as a reference, the seasonal average PM2.5concentration (15-23.5μg/m3and > 23.5 μg/m3) were associated with hazard ration of 1.13 (95%CI 1.09-1.18) and 1.19 (95%CI 1.14-1.24), 1.07 (95%CI 1.03-1.11) and 1.14 (95%CI 1.10-1.18), 1.22 (95%CI 1.08-1.38) and 1.31 (95%CI 1.16-1.48), 1.04 (95%CI 0.98-1.10) and 1.10 (95%CI 1.04-1.16) respectively for HF, IS/TIA,PE/DVT and MI/ACS. A nonlinear relationship between PM2·5and CV events outcomes was observed at PM2·5levels above 20 μg/m3.

Interpretation

A nonlinear exposure-response relationship between PM2·5 concentration and the incidence of cardiovascular events exists when PM2.5 is higher than the levels recommended by WHO Air Quality Guidelines. Further lowering PM2·5 levels beyond current regulatory standards may effectively reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events, particularly HF and DVT, and can lead to tangible health benefits in high-risk elderly population.
Compositional structural brain signatures capture Alzheimer’s genetic risk on brain structure along the diseasecontinuum
Authors: Genius Patricia , Calle M.Luz , Rodríguez-Fernández Blanca , Minguillon Carolina , Cacciaglia Raffaele , Garrido-Martin Diego , Esteller Manel , Navarro Arcadi , Gispert Juan Domingo , Vilor-Tejedor Natalia ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative,   ALFA study
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION

Traditional brain imaging genetics studies have primarily focused on how genetic factors influence the volume of specific brain regions, often neglecting the overall complexity of brain architecture and its genetic underpinnings.

METHODS

This study analyzed data from participants across the Alzheimer’s disease (AD)continuumfrom the ALFA and ADNI studies. We exploited compositional data analysis to examine relative brain volumetric variations that (i) differentiate cognitively unimpaired (CU) individuals, defined as amyloid-negative (A-) based on CSF profiling, from those at different AD stages, and (ii) associated with increased genetic susceptibility to AD, assessed using polygenic risk scores.

RESULTS

Distinct brain signatures differentiated CU A-individuals from amyloid-positive MCI and AD. Moreover, disease stage-specific signatures were associated with higher genetic risk of AD.

DISCUSSION

The findings underscore the complex interplay between genetics and disease stages in shaping brain structure, which could inform targeted preventive strategies and interventions in preclinical AD.
Stochastic growth and selective stabilization generate stereotyped dendritic arbors
Authors: Shi Rebecca , Ho Xue Yan , Tao Li , Taylor Caitlin A. , Zhao Ting , Zou Wei , Lizzappi Malcolm , Eichel Kelsie , Shen Kang
Published: May 2024

Stereotyped dendritic arbors are shaped by dynamic and stochastic growth during neuronal development. It remains unclear how guidance receptors and ligands coordinate branch dynamic growth, retraction, and stabilization to specify dendritic arbors. We previously showed that extracellular ligand SAX-7/LICAM dictates the shape of the PVD sensory neuron via binding to the dendritic guidance receptor DMA-1, a single transmembrane adhesion molecule. Here, we perform structure-function analyses of DMA-1 and unexpectedly find that robust, stochastic dendritic growth does not require ligand-binding. Instead, ligand-binding inhibits growth, prevents retraction, and specifies arbor shape. Furthermore, we demonstrate that dendritic growth requires a pool of ligand-free DMA-1, which is maintained by receptor endocytosis and reinsertion to the plasma membrane via recycling endosomes. Mutants defective of DMA-1 endocytosis show severely truncated dendritic arbors. We present a model in which ligand-free guidance receptor mediates intrinsic, stochastic dendritic growth, while extracellular ligands instruct dendrite shape by inhibiting growth.
Closed-loop modulation of remote hippocampal representations with neurofeedback
Authors: Coulter Michael E. , Gillespie Anna K. , Chu Joshua , Denovellis Eric L. , Nguyen Trevor T.K. , Liu Daniel F. , Wadhwani Katherine , Sharma Baibhav , Wang Kevin , Deng Xinyi , Eden Uri T. , Kemere Caleb , Frank Loren M.
Published: May 2024

Humans can remember specific remote events without acting on them and influence which memories are retrieved based on internal goals. However, animal models typically present sensory cues to trigger memory retrieval and then assess retrieval based on action. Thus, it is difficult to determine whether measured neural activity patterns relate to the cue(s), the memory, or the behavior. We therefore asked whether retrieval-related neural activity could be generated in animals without cues or a behavioral report. We focused on hippocampal “place cells” which primarily represent the animal’s current location (local representations) but can also represent locations away from the animal (remote representations). We developed a neurofeedback system to reward expression of remote representations and found that rats could learn to generate specific spatial representations that often jumped directly to the experimenter-defined target location. Thus, animals can deliberately engage remote representations, enabling direct study of retrieval-related activity in the brain.
TRIM9 controls growth cone responses to netrin through DCC and UNC5C
Authors: Mutalik Sampada P. , O’Shaughnessy Ellen C. , Ho Chris T. , Gupton Stephanie L.
Published: May 2024

The guidance cue netrin-1 promotes both growth cone attraction and growth cone repulsion. How netrin-1 elicits these diverse axonal responses, beyond engaging the attractive receptor DCC and repulsive receptors of the UNC5 family, remains elusive. Here we demonstrate that murine netrin-1 induces biphasic axonal responses in cortical neurons: attraction at lower concentrations and repulsion at higher concentrations using both a microfluidic-based netrin-1 gradient and bath application of netrin-1. TRIM9 is a brain-enriched E3 ubiquitin ligase previously shown to bind and cluster the attractive receptor DCC at the plasma membrane and regulate netrin-dependent attractive responses. However, whether TRIM9 also regulated repulsive responses to netrin-1 remained to be seen. In this study, we show that TRIM9 localizes and interacts with both the attractive netrin receptor DCC and the repulsive netrin receptor, UNC5C, and that deletion of murine Trim9 alters both attractive and repulsive responses to murine netrin-1. TRIM9 was required for netrin-1-dependent changes in surface levels of DCC and total levels of UNC5C in the growth cone during morphogenesis. We demonstrate that DCC at the membrane regulates growth cone area and show that TRIM9 negatively regulates FAK activity in the absence of netrin-1. We investigate membrane dynamics of the UNC5C receptor using pH-mScarlet fused to the extracellular domain of UNC5C. Minutes after netrin addition, levels of UNC5C at the plasma membrane drop in a TRIM9-independent fashion, however TRIM9 regulated the mobility of UNC5C in the plasma membrane in the absence of netrin-1. Together this work demonstrates that TRIM9 interacts with and regulates both DCC and UNC5C during attractive and repulsive axonal responses to netrin-1.
Effect of muscarinic blockade on the speed of attention shifting and learning
Authors: Thiele Alexander , Milner Agnes McDonald , Hall Corwyn , Mayhew Lucy , Carter Anthony , Sanjeev Sidharth
Published: May 2024

The study aimed to investigate to what extent blockade of muscarinic receptors affects the speed of endogenous versus exogenous attentional shift times, and how it affects learning induced improvements of attention shift times. Subjects viewed an array of 10 moving clocks and reported the time a clock indicated when cued. Target clocks were indicated by peripheral or central cues, including conditions of pre-cuing. This allowed assessing shift times when attention was pre-allocated, when peripheral cues triggered exogenous attention shifts, and when central cues triggered endogenous attention shifts. In study 1, each subject participated in 2 sessions (scopolamine/placebo), whereby the order of drug intake was counterbalanced across subjects, and subjects were blinded to conditions. Scopolamine/placebo was administered before a psychophysical experiment was conducted. In study 2, the effect of muscarinic blockade on learning induced improvements of attention shift times was investigated. Here scopolamine/placebo was administered immediately after the first (of two) psychophysical sessions, whereby a given subject either received scopolamine or placebo pills. Confirming previous results, we show that pre-cuing resulted in the fastest shift times, followed by exogenous cuing, with endogenous attentional shifts being slowest. Scopolamine application increased attentional shift times across all 3 conditions compared to placebo, but in a dose dependent manner. Additionally, blockade of muscarinic receptors immediately after the first session reduced learning dependent improvement of attention shift times. These results demonstrate that muscarinic receptors play an important role in attention shifting, and they contribute to learning of attention shifting.
Embryonically Active Piriform Cortex Neurons Promote Intracortical Recurrent Connectivity during Development
Authors: Wang David C. , Santos-Valencia Fernando , Song Jun H. , Franks Kevin M. , Luo Liqun
Published: May 2024

Neuronal activity plays a critical role in the maturation of circuits that propagate sensory information into the brain. How widely does early activity regulate circuit maturation across the developing brain? Here, we used Targeted Recombination in Active Populations (TRAP) to perform a brain-wide survey for prenatally active neurons in mice and identified the piriform cortex as an abundantly TRAPed region. Whole-cell recordings in neonatal slices revealed preferential interconnectivity within embryonically TRAPed piriform neurons and their enhanced synaptic connectivity with other piriform neurons.In vivoNeuropixels recordings in neonates demonstrated that embryonically TRAPed piriform neurons exhibit broad functional connectivity within piriform and lead spontaneous synchronized population activity during a transient neonatal period, when recurrent connectivity is strengthening. Selectively activating or silencing of these neurons in neonates enhanced or suppressed recurrent synaptic strength, respectively. Thus, embryonically TRAPed piriform neurons represent an interconnected hub-like population whose activity promotes recurrent connectivity in early development.
Intron lariat spliceosomes convert lariats to true circles: implications for intron transposition
Authors: Ares Manuel , Igel Haller , Katzman Sol , Donohue John P.
Published: May 2024

Rare, full-length circular intron RNAs distinct from lariats have been reported in several species, but their biogenesis is not understood. We envisioned and tested a hypothesis for their formation usingSaccharomyces cerevisiae, documenting full-length and novel processed circular RNAs from multiple introns. Evidence implicates a previously undescribed catalytic activity of the intron lariat spliceosome (ILS) in which the 3′-OH of the lariat tail (with optional trimming and adenylation by the nuclear 3′ processing machinery) attacks the branch, joining the intron 3′ end to the 5′ splice site in a 3′–5′ linked circle. Human U2 and U12 spliceosomes produce analogous full-length and processed circles. Postsplicing catalytic activity of the spliceosome may promote intron transposition during eukaryotic genome evolution.
Design, integration, and commissioning of the first linac for image guided hadron therapy prototype
Authors: Degiovanni Alberto , De Michele Giovanni , Bonomi Rossana , Cabaleiro Magallanes Francisco , Caldara Michele , Dimov Veliko , Esposito Marco , Fink Daniel , Gallas Torreira Manuel , Ivanisenko Yevgeniy , Jeff Adam , Magnoni Stefano , Navarro Quirante Luis , Pavetits Hannes , Valloni Alessandra , Adam Joël , Aguilera Murciano Debora , Aumon Sandra , Baccigalupi Carlo , Baiguera Tambutti Laura , Bailly Sylvain , Ballestrero Sergio , Bellorini François , Benedetti Stefano , Benot Morell Alfonso , Bouhired Denia , Breitenfeldt Martin , Candolfi Sylvain , Castorina Giovanni , Cerv Matevz , Conde Fernandez Beatriz , D’Auria Gerardo , Barreto Cristovao Andre Dionisio , Esposito Luigi Salvatore , Fabich Adrian , Fanella Stefano , Fazio Daniel , Fusco Yoann , Galizzi Francesco , Gibson Stephen , Giunta Marina , Gonzalez Fernandez Maria del Mar , Gradassi Paolo , Healy Alisa , Khan Vasim , Kobzeva Lisa , Leal Seixas Correia Miguel , Levy Gabriel , Madoulaud Lucile , Magrin Guillaume , Marraffa Antonio , Mellace Claudio , Milla Moreno Alberto , Moser Roland , Murteira Diogo , Myers Stephen , Nadig Patricio , Nardulli Jacopo , Nuessle Georg , Ouerghi Yousri , Patino Revuelta Adriana , Paz Neira Pablo , Rejas Christopher , Roman Concha Diomedes , Rutter Theodore , Salveter Friederike , Samochkine Alexandre , Sanchez Gonzalez Andres , Soriano Guillen Dario , Stabile Pierpaolo , Stachyra Katarzyna , Ungaro Donatella , Urbaniec Bartlomiej , Vallé Margaux , Vazquez Rivera Daniel , Wallet Lionel , Watts David , Zannini Carlo
Published: May 2024

The Linac for Image Guided Hadron Therapy (LIGHT) system has been developed as the first commercial high-frequency linac-based proton therapy accelerator system. As part of the development process and of the technical validation of the concept, a reduced energy prototype linac (including all the key functional aspects of the full energy accelerator) has been designed and tested in parallel with the preparation work for a full-scale system. The LIGHT prototype construction, installation, and commissioning with beam allowed the identification of technical gaps and design improvements before the transfer to a medical device implementation. This paper gives a comprehensive summary of the design and integration aspects and presents for the first time the results achieved with the LIGHT prototype that was installed and commissioned on CERN premises in the years 2015–2019.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Phenomenology of isospin-symmetry breaking with vector mesons
Authors: Kovács Péter , Wolf György , Weickgenannt Nora , Rischke Dirk H.
Published: May 2024

We study the effect of isospin-symmetry breaking in the framework of the extended linear σ model in vacuum. In this model, several particles mix with each other at tree level, due to the three nonzero scalar condensates (nonstrange, strange, isospin). We resolve these mixings with the help of various field transformations. We compute all possible meson mixings and decay widths at tree level and perform a χ2 fit to PDG data. A very good fit is found if we exclude the (very small ∼130  keV) ω→ππ decay. We also investigate the violation of Dashen’s theorem.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Mode recombination formula and nonanalytic term in an effective potential at finite temperature on a compactified space
Authors: Sakamoto Makoto , Takenaga Kazunori
Published: May 2024

We develop a new formula called a mode recombination formula, and we can recast the effective potential at finite temperature in one-loop approximation for fermion and scalar fields on the D-dimensional spacetime, Sτ1×RD−(p+1)×∏i=1pSi1 into a convenient form for discussing nonanalytic terms, which cannot be written in the form of any positive integer power of the field-dependent mass squared, in the effective potential. The formula holds irrespective of whether the field is a fermion or a scalar and of boundary conditions for spatial Si1 directions and clarifies the importance of zero modes in the Matsubara and Kaluza-Klein modes for the existence of the nonanalytic terms. The effective potential is drastically simplified further to obtain the nonanalytic terms in easier and more transparent way. In addition to reproducing previous results, we find that there exists no nonanalytic term for the fermion field with arbitrary boundary condition for the spatial Si1 direction, which is also the case for the scalar field with the antiperiodic boundary condition for the spatial direction.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Measuring the Optical Concurrence of Vector Beams with an Atomic-State Interferometer
Authors: Wang Jinwen , Svensson Sphinx J. , Clark Thomas W. , Chen Yun , Al Khafaji Mustafa A. , Gao Hong , Westerberg Niclas , Franke-Arnold Sonja
Published: May 2024

We investigate the transmission of vector beams, correlated in their polarization and spatial degrees of freedom, through cold atoms in the presence of a transverse magnetic coupling field. The resulting phase-dependent dynamics allow us to imprint the spatially varying polarization of a vector beam onto atomic spin polarizations, thereby establishing a direct link between optical space-polarization correlations and atomic-state interference. We find that the resulting absorption profiles show interference fringes whose modulation strength is given by the squared concurrence of the vector beam, letting us identify optical concurrence from a single absorption image. We expect impact across a diverse range of applications, including spintronics, quantum memories, metrology, and clocks.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Synthesis, structure and photoluminescence properties of heterometallic-based coordination polymers of trimesic acid
Authors: Chinchan Kunlanit , Jiajaroen Suwadee , Theppitak Chatphorn , Laksee Sakchai , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol , Chainok Kittipong
Published: May 2024

Reacting trimesic acid (H3TMA, C9H6O6) with CaCl2 and MCl2 at 110 °C under hydrothermal conditions gave the isostructural heterobimetallic coordination polymers (CPs) catena-poly[[tetraaquazinc(II)]-μ-5-carboxybenzene-1,3-dicarboxylato-[tetraaquacalcium(II)]-μ-5-carboxybenzene-1,3-dicarboxylato], [CaZn(HTMA)2(H2O)8]
n
, 1, and catena-poly[[tetraaquacobalt(II)]-μ-5-carboxybenzene-1,3-dicarboxylato-[tetraaquacalcium(II)]-μ-5-carboxybenzene-1,3-dicarboxylato], [CaCo(HTMA)2(H2O)8]
n
, 2. Compounds 1 and 2 crystallize in the monoclinic space group C2/c. The solid-state structures consist of eight-coordinate CaII ions and six-coordinate M
II ions. These ions are connected by a doubly deprotonated HTMA2− ligand to create a one-dimensional (1D) zigzag chain. Poly[[decaaquabis(μ3-benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylato)calcium(II)dizinc(II)] dihydrate], {[CaZn2(TMA)2(H2O)10]·2H2O}
n
, 3, was found incidentally as a minor by-product during the synthesis of 1 at a temperature of 140 °C. It forms crystals in the orthorhombic space group Ccce. The structure of 3 consists of a two-dimensional (2D) layer composed of [Zn(TMA)] chains that are interconnected by CaII ions. The presence of aromatic carboxylic acid ligands and water molecules, which can form numerous hydrogen bonds and π–π interactions, increases the stability of the three-dimensional (3D) supramolecular architecture of these CPs. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibit thermal stability up to 420 °C, as indicated by the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) curves. The powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) data reveal the formation of unidentified phases in methanol and dimethyl sulfoxide, while 1 exhibits chemical stability in a wide range of solvents. The luminescence properties of 1 dispersed in various low molecular weight organic solvents was also examined. The results demonstrate excellent selectivity, sensitivity and recyclability for detecting acetone molecules in aqueous media. Additionally, a possible sensing mechanism is also outlined.
Experiences of middle managers in transitioning to and managing teams in hybrid work: an interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Teng-Calleja Mendiola , Caringal-Go Jaimee Felice , Mactal Ma. Tonirose D. , Fabul Jonah L. , H. Reyes Rhoger Marvin , Bulilan Ed Joseph , Kilboy Clarisse Aeaea M. , Cementina-Olpoc Raquel
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to explore the experiences and sense-making of middle managers in transitioning to and implementing hybrid work arrangements.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the lens and analytical procedures of interpretative phenomenological analysis, data were collected during the transition time at the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic as many organizations were navigating the hybrid work setup. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 middle managers from various organizations in the Philippines that have been implementing a hybrid work arrangement for at least 3 months.

Findings

Findings illustrate the challenges experienced by the middle managers in facilitating a smooth transition to onsite work, managing adjustments on when and where to work and bridging the imperatives of top management as well as the preferences of team members (managing upward and downward). The results describe strategies used by middle managers to balance deliverables and employee needs while demonstrating compassionate leadership in relating with direct reports. The middle managers also engaged in self-care, used reframing and sought support from family and peers to cope with challenges.

Practical implications

The findings exemplified how the middle managers experience of transitioning to hybrid work reflect various contextual and cultural nuances. These external realities must be considered in providing support to these groups of employees particularly in developing leadership programs that addresses their social and emotional needs.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the limited research on middle managers' experiences in a hybrid work setup despite their critical role as change agents responsible for leading teams (van Dam et al., 2021).
“Listen with your ears and eyes and heart and your minds and your soul”: Implications for decolonising consultation and occupational therapy from case studies on “Closing the Gap” policy implementation
Authors: George Emma , Ritchie Tirritpa , Ryan Ashleigh , Fisher Matt , Baum Fran , Mackean Tamara
Published: May 2024

Background

Including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities through consultation has been a key feature of policy implementation throughout the Australian Government's “Closing the Gap” (CTG) strategy. However, consultation often reinforces power imbalances between government and local community and can undervalue or marginalise Indigenous knowledge and leadership. Occupational therapy has a short history of examining colonial power structures within the profession, but there has been limited progress to decolonise consultation and practice.

Methods

Drawing on decolonising research methodology and positioned at the interface of knowledge, comparative case studies were used to understand policy implementation in two regions. In Shepparton, Victoria, CTG policy was implemented predominately through an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, and in Southern Adelaide, South Australia, CTG policy was implemented through mainstream state government and non‐government providers in the absence of a local Aboriginal‐controlled organisation. Findings were examined critically to identify implications for occupational therapy.

Results

Our case studies showed that policy stakeholders perceived consultation to be tokenistic and partnerships were viewed differently by Aboriginal and non‐Indigenous participants. Participants identified the need to move beyond a rhetoric of “working with” Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, to promote Aboriginal leadership and really listen to community so that policy can respond to local need. The findings of this research show that Aboriginal‐controlled services are best positioned to conduct and respond to community consultation.

Conclusion

A decolonising approach to consultation would shift the status quo in policy implementation in ways that realign power away from colonial structures towards collaboration with Indigenous leadership and the promotion of Aboriginal‐controlled services. There are lessons for occupational therapy from this research on policy implementation on authentic, decolonised consultation as a key feature of policy implementation. Shifting power imbalances through prioritising Indigenous leadership and honouring what is shared can drive change in CTG policy implementation processes and outcomes.
Formative personal experiences: How benefit recipiency and income changes shape perceptions of system abuse
Authors: VAN HOOTEGEM ARNO , HELGØY ANNA , NEMČOK MIROSLAV
Published: May 2024

Perceptions that others will contribute their fair share are fundamental to the legitimacy of the political system. To better understand how these perceptions take shape beyond the influence of political narratives and socializations, this paper investigates the role of the formative personal experiences of benefit recipiency and income changes in explaining views on welfare abuse as well as tax evasion. Theoretically, both increasing identification or ‘othering’ could occur when these experiences lead to new group adherence. To test this empirically, three‐wave Norwegian panel data (2014–2017) are analysed. Within‐ as well as between‐group analyses show that becoming dependent on benefits leads to lower perceptions of welfare abuse, while positive income changes prompt higher perceptions of tax evasion, albeit mostly among those with lower income levels. Overall, this article shows that formative personal experiences affect views that are fundamental to the perceived fairness, legitimacy and sustainability of the social and political system.
Prompt engineering: The next big skill in rheumatology research
Authors: Venerito Vincenzo , Lalwani Devansh , Del Vescovo Sergio , Iannone Florenzo , Gupta Latika
Published: May 2024

Large language models (LLMs) like GPT‐4 and Claude are catalyzing transformation across medical research including rheumatology. This review examines their applications, highlighting the pivotal role of prompt engineering in effectively guiding LLMs. Key aspects explored include literature synthesis, data analysis, manuscript drafting, coding assistance, privacy considerations, and generative artificial intelligence integrations. While LLMs accelerate workflows, reliance without apt prompting jeopardizes accuracy. By methodically constructing prompts and gauging model outputs, researchers can maximize relevance and utility. Locally run open‐source models also offer data privacy protections. As LLMs permeate rheumatology research, developing expertise in strategic prompting and assessing model limitations is critical. With proper oversight, LLMs markedly boost scholarly productivity.
Maternal‐fetal immunity and recurrent spontaneous abortion
Authors: Yao Yao , Ye Yiqing , Chen Jia , Zhang Meng , Cai Xiaoyu , Zheng Caihong
Published: May 2024

Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion (RSA) is a common pregnancy complication, that has multifactorial causes, and currently, 40%–50% of cases remain unexplained, referred to as Unexplained RSA (URSA). Due to the elusive etiology and mechanisms, clinical management is exceedingly challenging. In recent years, with the progress in reproductive immunology, a growing body of evidence suggests a relationship between URSA and maternal‐fetal immunology, offering hope for the development of tailored treatment strategies. This article provides an immunological perspective on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of RSA. On one hand, it comprehensively reviews the immunological mechanisms underlying RSA, including abnormalities in maternal‐fetal interface immune tolerance, maternal‐fetal interface immune cell function, gut microbiota‐mediated immune dysregulation, and vaginal microbiota‐mediated immune anomalies. On the other hand, it presents the diagnosis and existing treatment modalities for RSA. This article offers a clear knowledge framework for understanding RSA from an immunological standpoint. In conclusion, while the “layers of the veil” regarding immunological factors in RSA are gradually being unveiled, our current research may only scratch the surface. In terms of immunological etiology, effective diagnostic tools for RSA are currently lacking, and the efficacy and safety of immunotherapies, primarily based on lymphocyte immunotherapy and intravenous immunoglobulin, remain contentious.
Gender and reactions to speeches in German parliamentary debates
Authors: Ash Elliott , Krümmel Johann , Slapin Jonathan B.
Published: May 2024

Are nonverbal reactions during parliamentary debate gendered? Do male and female members of parliament (MPs) experience applause or jeering differently? In short, yes, and the gendered nature of a speech matters. Using an original corpus of over 544,000 speeches given in German state parliaments, we first estimate the gendered nature of parliamentary speeches and then examine how reactions to speeches given by male and female MPs differ. Female and male MPs receive similarly positive and negative reactions to their speeches on average, but they receive different reactions depending on the gendered nature of the speeches. Speeches using language associated with women's topics receive fewer reactions overall and even fewer when delivered by men. The gendered nature of parliamentary interjections could affect how women MPs view their position and how women voters view parliament.
History of periodontitis as a risk factor for implant failure and incidence of peri‐implantitis: A systematic review, meta‐analysis, and trial sequential analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Serroni Matteo , Borgnakke Wenche S. , Romano Luigi , Balice Giuseppe , Paolantonio Michele , Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Ravidà Andrea
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Dental implants are widely employed as dependable replacements for lost teeth. However, it is crucial to establish, solely through prospective cohort studies, whether a history of periodontitis indeed constitutes a significant risk factor for implant failure.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in October 2022 in several electronic databases with subsequent manual updates. Only original prospective cohort studies evaluating the implant (loss) rate ≥1 year after implant loading were included. Logarithmic risk ratio and weighted mean differences were calculated. Study results were summarized using random effects meta‐analyses evaluated by trial sequential analyses. The Newcastle‐Ottawa scale evaluated study bias and the GRADE approach assessed the certainty/quality of the evidence.

Results

A total of 14 publications reporting on 12 prospective cohort studies were included. Low evidence certainty/quality evidence due to the absence of randomized clinical trials revealed significantly greater odds of failure in patients with a history of periodontitis at follow‐ups both after ≤5 years (RR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.71–2.37; p = 0.013) and >5 years (RR = 2.26; 95% CI: 1.12–4.53; p = 0.023). The incidence of peri‐implantitis (RR = 4.09; 95% CI: 1.93–8.58; p < 0.001) and the weighted mean (WM) of marginal bone loss (WM difference = 0.75 mm; 95% CI: 0.18–1.31; p < 0.05) were statistically significantly greater in the periodontally compromised group, whereas there was no significant difference between the two groups for peri‐implant probing depth.

Conclusion

A history of periodontitis can be considered a significant risk factor for incident implant failure, peri‐implantitis, and greater marginal bone loss.
Ocean protection quality is lagging behind quantity: Applying a scientific framework to assess real marine protected area progress against the 30 by 30 target
Authors: Pike Elizabeth P. , MacCarthy Jessica M. C. , Hameed Sarah O. , Harasta Nikki , Grorud‐Colvert Kirsten , Sullivan‐Stack Jenna , Claudet Joachim , Horta e Costa Barbara , Gonçalves Emanuel J. , Villagomez Angelo , Morgan Lance
Published: May 2024

The international community set a global conservation target to protect at least 30% of the ocean by 2030 (“30 × 30”) to reverse biodiversity loss, including through marine protected areas (MPAs). However, varied MPAs result in significantly different conservation outcomes, making MPA coverage alone an inadequate metric. We used The MPA Guide framework to assess the the world's largest 100 MPAs by area, representing nearly 90% of reported global MPA coverage and 7.3% of the global ocean area, and analyzed the distribution of MPA quality across political and ecological regions. A quarter of the assessed MPA coverage is not implemented, and one‐third is incompatible with the conservation of nature. Two factors contribute to this outcome: (1) many reported MPAs lack regulations or management, and (2) some MPAs allow high‐impact activities. Fully and highly protected MPAs account for one‐third of the assessed area but are unevenly distributed across ecoregions in part because some nations have designated large, highly protected MPAs in their overseas or remote territories. Indicators of MPA quality, not only coverage, are needed to ensure a global network of MPAs that covers at least 30% of the ocean and effectively safeguards representative marine ecosystems from destructive human activities.
Statistical analysis of observational studies in disability research
Authors: Shepherd Daisy A. , Amor David J. , Moreno‐Betancur Margarita
Published: May 2024

Observational studies have a critical role in disability research, providing the opportunity to address a range of research questions. Over the past decades, there have been substantial shifts and developments in statistical methods for observational studies, most notably for causal inference. In this review, we provide an overview of modern design and analysis concepts critical for observational studies, drawing examples from the field of disability research and highlighting the challenges in this field, to inform the readership on important statistical considerations for their studies.

What this paper adds

Descriptive research questions have specific analytical complexities, so careful statistical design before analysis is critical.

Prediction research aims to produce a model with good predictive ability and requires thorough statistical design prior to analysis.

Causal research requires careful statistical analysis planning, facilitated by modern causal inference concepts and analytical methods.

Adopting these approaches will strengthen the quality of observational studies addressing a range of research questions in the disability space.
The diabetes body project: Study protocol of a multi‐site trial of a virtually delivered eating disorder prevention program for young women with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Haugvik Severina , Hennekes Mareille , Stice Eric , de Wit Maartje , Toschi Elena , Wisting Line
Published: May 2024

Aim

Young women with type 1 diabetes are a high‐risk population for eating disorders (ED). Prevention programs are lacking. In young women without diabetes, the Body Project has produced reductions in ED risk factors, ED symptoms and future ED onset. Therefore, the Body Project was adapted to type 1 diabetes, the Diabetes Body Project (DBP). In this protocol, we describe the multi‐site randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate efficacy of the DBP.

Methods

This is an ongoing RCT with four sites (Europe and US). In total 280, 14–35 year‐old, women with type 1 diabetes ≥1 year and some level of body image concerns will be recruited in 2023. Participants are randomized to either virtual DBP groups or an educational control. The study constitutes 5 measurement points distributed over 2 years. The primary aim is to test if DBP will produce significantly greater reductions in ED behaviours, ED symptoms and future ED onset. The secondary aim is to test if DBP has significantly greater improvements in diabetes distress, quality of life and glycaemic outcomes.

Results

We expect that DBP will be more efficacious in reducing ED behaviours, ED symptoms and ED onset compared to the control condition. Additionally, we hope to gain new knowledge on how DBP may affect diabetes‐related outcomes.

Conclusions

If DBP proves efficacious, it has potential for immediate, clinical implementation at low‐cost and may contribute to broad prevention of future ED onset among young women with type 1 diabetes.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05399446.