bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability testing of the Health of the Nation Outcome Scales 2018
Authors: Painter Jon , James Mick
Published: March 2024

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject

The Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS) is a widely used clinical measure designed to rate and monitor the outcomes of service users accessing specialist mental healthcare.

Since its development (in 1996), numerous research studies have confirmed the HoNOS captures the aspects of care that it purports to (validity), and that clinicians' ratings are consistent both over time, and between different raters (reliability).

What the paper adds to existing knowledge

In 2018, the HoNOS was reviewed with updates made to some terminology and other revisions intended to remove ambiguity in the guidance for raters. However, although the new version (HoNOS 2018) was accompanied by a recommendation that its validity and reliability be re‐tested this was not undertaken.

To our knowledge, this is the first study to re‐assess the updated tool's reliability by measuring the level of agreement between different raters. Our findings confirm that there is an acceptable level of consistency between student mental health nurses that have been trained to use the (new) HoNOS 2018.

What are the implications for practice

The HoNOS is nationally mandated for use by all specialist mental healthcare providers in the UK.

Our findings provide some assurance that, with appropriate update training and monitoring of organisational‐level data sets, the original HoNOS glossary can safely be replaced with the HoNOS 2018 to ensure more contemporary routine outcome measurement can occur.

Introduction

The Health of the Nation Outcome Scales (HoNOS) is a well‐established clinician rated outcome measure for use in mental health services. Following an international review, an updated version (HoNOS 2018) was published with a recommendation that its psychometric properties be re‐tested prior to widespread implementation. To date, only one such study has been published.

Aims

To test the inter‐rater agreement levels for HoNOS 2018.

Method

Third‐year student mental health nurses received training to complete the HoNOS 2018. Following this timetabled session, they were each invited to independently rate two, randomly selected, videos of (simulated) patient interviews. The resulting data were then analysed to calculate the tool's internal consistency and inter‐rater agreement levels.

Results

The 55 participants provided 106 ratings from four vignettes. Cronbach's alphas and McDonalds omegas confirmed the revised tool's internal consistency was acceptable. Average measure intraclass correlation coefficients for the four patient vignettes indicated excellent reliability.

Implications for practice

This study provides initial assurance that the HoNOS 2018 is a reliable clinician rated outcome measure suitable for use in routine clinical practice by relatively inexperienced mental health practitioners with limited training.
What happens to rural hospitals during a ransomware attack? Evidence from Medicare data
Authors: Neprash Hannah T. , McGlave Claire C. , Rydberg Katie , Henning‐Smith Carrie
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Hospitals are increasingly the target of cybersecurity threats, including ransomware attacks. Little is known about how ransomware attacks affect care at rural hospitals.

Methods

We used data on hospital ransomware attacks from the Tracking Healthcare Ransomware Events and Traits database, linked to American Hospital Association survey data and Medicare fee‐for‐service (FFS) claims data from 2016 to 2021. We measured Medicare FFS volume and revenue in the inpatient, outpatient, and emergency room setting—at the hospital‐week level. We then conducted a stacked event study analysis, comparing hospital volume and revenue at ransomware‐attacked and nonattacked hospitals before and after attacks.

Findings

Ransomware attacks severely disrupted hospital operations—with comparable effects observed at rural versus urban hospitals. During the first week of the attack, inpatient admissions volume fell by 14.7% at rural hospitals (P = .04) and 16.9% at urban hospitals (P = .01)—recovering to preattack levels within 2‐3 weeks. Outpatient visits fell by 35.3% at rural hospitals (P<.01) and 22.0% at urban hospitals (P = .03) during the first week. Emergency room visits fell by 10.0% at rural hospitals (P = .04) and 19.3% at urban hospitals (P = .01). Travel time and distance to the closest nonattacked hospital was 4‐7 times greater for rural ransomware‐attacked hospitals than for urban ransomware‐attacked hospitals.

Conclusions

Ransomware attacks disrupted hospital operations in rural and urban areas. Disruptions of similar magnitudes may be more detrimental in rural areas, given the greater distances patients must travel to receive care and the outsized impact that lost revenue may have on rural hospital finances.
Plasmodesmata and intercellular molecular traffic control
Authors: Tee Estee E. , Faulkner Christine
Published: March 2024

Plasmodesmata are plasma membrane‐lined connections that join plant cells to their neighbours, establishing an intercellular cytoplasmic continuum through which molecules can travel between cells, tissues, and organs. As plasmodesmata connect almost all cells in plants, their molecular traffic carries information and resources across a range of scales, but dynamic control of plasmodesmal aperture can change the possible domains of molecular exchange under different conditions. Plasmodesmal aperture is controlled by specialised signalling cascades accommodated in spatially discrete membrane and cell wall domains. Thus, the composition of plasmodesmata defines their capacity for molecular trafficking. Further, their shape and density can likewise define trafficking capacity, with the cell walls between different cell types hosting different numbers and forms of plasmodesmata to drive molecular flux in physiologically important directions. The molecular traffic that travels through plasmodesmata ranges from small metabolites through to proteins, and possibly even larger mRNAs. Smaller molecules are transmitted between cells via passive mechanisms but how larger molecules are efficiently trafficked through plasmodesmata remains a key question in plasmodesmal biology. How plasmodesmata are formed, the shape they take, what they are made of, and what passes through them regulate molecular traffic through plants, underpinning a wide range of plant physiology.
Complex control of seed germination timing by ERF50 involves RGL2 antagonism and negative feedback regulation of DOG1
Authors: Carrera‐Castaño Gerardo , Mira Sara , Fañanás‐Pueyo Iris , Sánchez‐Montesino Rocío , Contreras Ángela , Weiste Christoph , Dröge‐Laser Wolfgang , Gómez Luis , Oñate‐Sánchez Luis
Published: March 2024

Seed dormancy governs germination timing, with both evolutionary and applied consequences. Despite extensive studies on the hormonal and genetic control of these processes, molecular mechanisms directly linking dormancy and germination remain poorly understood.

By screening a collection of lines overexpressing Arabidopsis transcription factors, we identified ERF50 as a key gene to control dormancy and germination. To study its regulation, we measured seed‐related physiological parameters in loss‐of‐function mutants and carried out transactivation, protein interaction and ChIP‐PCR analyses.

We found direct ERF50‐mediated repression of DOG1 and activation of EXPA2 transcription, which results in enhanced seed germination. Although ERF50 expression is increased by DOG1 in dormant seeds, ERF50 germination‐promoting activity is blocked by RGL2.

The physiological, genetic and molecular evidence gathered here supports that ERF50 controls germination timing by regulating DOG1 levels to leverage its role as enhancer of seed germination, via RGL2 antagonism on EXPA2 expression. Our results highlight the central role of ERF50 as a feedback regulator to couple and fine‐tune seed dormancy and germination.
A major gene for chilling tolerance variation in Indica rice codes for a kinase OsCTK1 that phosphorylates multiple substrates under cold
Authors: Wu Jiawen , Liu Huimin , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yingdong , Li Dongling , Liu Shiyan , Lu Shan , Wei Lihui , Hua Jian , Zou Baohong
Published: March 2024

Rice is susceptible to chilling stress. Identifying chilling tolerance genes and their mechanisms are key to improve rice performance. Here, we performed a genome‐wide association study to identify regulatory genes for chilling tolerance in rice.

One major gene for chilling tolerance variation in Indica rice was identified as a casein kinase gene OsCTK1. Its function and natural variation are investigated at the physiological and molecular level by its mutants and transgenic plants. Potential substrates of OsCTK1 were identified by phosphoproteomic analysis, protein–protein interaction assay, in vitro kinase assay, and mutant characterization.

OsCTK1 positively regulates rice chilling tolerance. Three of its putative substrates, acidic ribosomal protein OsP3B, cyclic nucleotide‐gated ion channel OsCNGC9, and dual‐specific mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphatase OsMKP1, are each involved in chilling tolerance. In addition, a natural OsCTK1 chilling‐tolerant (CT) variant exhibited a higher kinase activity and conferred greater chilling tolerance compared with a chilling‐sensitive (CS) variant. The CT variant is more prevalent in CT accessions and is distributed more frequently in higher latitude compared with the CS variant.

This study thus enables a better understanding of chilling tolerance mechanisms and provides gene variants for genetic improvement of chilling tolerance in rice.
National Identity in Qatar: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Cochrane Logan , Amin Hira , Al‐kaabi Nouf
Published: March 2024

The Arabian Gulf region has witnessed tremendous social, political and economic change in recent decades. The State of Qatar's ambitious global visions mean that it is a significant player in both creating and riding these transformational waves. Yet with a minority citizen population of only ~12%, protecting the language, culture and values of the nation in the midst of rapid development and modernization presents unique challenges that most governments do not have to grapple with. This has led to strategic and legal stances and policies as well initiatives by governmental and non‐governmental organizations to maintain and develop national identity and Qatari culture. Through a systematic literature review, this paper synthesizes available evidence regarding national identity for Qatari citizens. It explores dominant themes that emerged in the literature related to identity in Qatar, namely: architecture, education and language policy, gender, media and social media, museums, politics and governance, and sports. Each are synthesized, from which we offer reflections on what is (not) known regarding national identity, identifying a number of areas in need of research related to better understanding the complexity and diversity within the citizen population.
Villages in the City – Urban Planning for Neighbourhood Love
Authors: Kourtit Karima , Nijkamp Peter , Turk Umut , Wahlström Mia
Published: March 2024

The city comprises of a wide variety of heterogeneous territorial units (e.g. districts or neighbourhoods). In many – especially larger – cities, social capital assets (like community bonds) are mirrored at the level of neighbourhoods which form the home for many sociocultural communities or distinct socio‐economic classes. We postulate in this study that the big city is essentially an ‘archipelago’ made up of ‘urban villages’. We analyse the residents' perceived attractiveness regarding their daily local neighbourhood by introducing the concept of ‘village love’ (or ‘neighbourhood love’), inspired by the recent literature on ‘city love’ (comprising ‘body’, ‘soul’ and ‘community’ constituents of urban life). Based on an extensive and detailed multi‐annual database for all neighbourhoods in Rotterdam, the present paper seeks to identify the background factors shaping ‘village love’ in the city, with particular attention to the citizens' subjective appreciation for and access to a great variety of (physical and immaterial) urban amenities shaping the place‐based satisfaction of residents. The theoretical framing of our research resembles the basics of traditional central place theory here transmitted to the urban space in which local proximity to amenities plays a key role. A wide array of relevant amenities impacting on the place‐specific well‐being feelings (‘village love’) of residents in various neighbourhoods in the city of Rotterdam is distinguished using inter alia‐rich multi‐annual survey data. This approach is empirically tested and verified by means of LISA statistics and advanced spatial econometric dependence models (‘urbanometrics’). The findings confirm the usefulness of a central place interpretation of ‘urban village love’ in the city.
Doppler ultrasonographic measurements of the lateral digital palmar artery in pregnant mares
Authors: de Chiara Mariaelena , Montano Chiara , Costanza Dario , Coluccia Pierpaolo , Auletta Luigi , Greco Adelaide , Pasolini Maria Pia
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular changes have been reported in late pregnancy in mares. However, there are no data on changes in peripheral blood flow. Doppler ultrasound represents a sensitive method for assessing the blood flow directed to the hoof. The aims of this study were to evaluate the blood flow parameters of the lateral palmar digital artery (LPDA) in pregnant mares and to assess intra‐ and interrater agreement between two observers with different levels of experience. The LPDAs of pregnant Italian Standardbred mares were examined. The vessels were located with B‐mode ultrasound and analyzed with color and pulsed wave Doppler. The following parameters were recorded by the operators: heart rate (HR), peak systolic velocity (PSV), end‐diastolic velocity (EDV), and resistive index (RI). Measurements were performed between 2 and 3 months of gestation (T1), in the last month of pregnancy (T2) and a week after delivery (T3). Seventeen mares aged 3–18 years met the inclusion criteria. Ultrasound examinations of the LPDA were subjectively easy to perform and well tolerated by the mares. Interrater and intrarater agreement were good and moderate, respectively. The HR was higher at T2 than at T1 and T3. The PSV and RI changed significantly during pregnancy, with higher values at T2 and T3, whereas the EDV remained unchanged throughout the examination. Doppler examination showed that peripheral flow changes were present in mares in late pregnancy. However, the persistence of higher values after delivery invites further investigation to assess the correlation between metabolic/endocrine changes related to pregnancy and Doppler parameters.
Fungible, Multiyear Solar Thermochemical Energy Storage Demonstrated via the Cobalt Oxide Cycle
Authors: Bassett Katherine , Silcox Rachel , Will Jeffrey D. , Hill Sarah , Smith Paul , Smith Ben , Schmit Brian , Venstrom Luke J. , Krenzke Peter T.
Published: March 2024

We present a proof of concept demonstration of solar thermochemical energy storage on a multiple year time scale. The storage is fungible and can take the form of process heat or hydrogen. We designed and fabricated a 4-kW solar rotary drum reactor to carry out the solar-driven charging step of solar thermochemical storage via metal oxide reduction–oxidation cycles. During the summer of 2019, the solar reactor was operated in the Valparaiso University solar furnace to effect the reduction of submillimeter cobalt oxide particles in air at approximately 1000∘C. A particle collection system cooled the reduced particles rapidly enough to maintain conversions of 84–94% for feed rates of 2.9−60.8gmin−1. The solar-to-chemical storage efficiency, defined as the enthalpy of the reduction reaction at 1000∘C divided by the solar energy input, reached 20%. Samples of the reduced cobalt oxide particles were stored in vials in air at room temperature for more than 3 years. The stored solar energy was released by reoxidizing samples in air in a benchtop reactor and by electrochemically reoxidizing samples to produce H2. Measurements of the oxygen uptake by the reduced metal oxide confirm its promise as a medium to store and dispatch solar energy over long durations. Linear sweep voltammetry and bulk electrolysis demonstrate the promise of H2 production at 0.55 V relative to the normal hydrogen electrode, 0.68 V below the 1.23 V potential required for conventional electrolysis.
Topology Optimization of a Compliant Constant-Force End Effector for Robotic Operations Over Uneven Surfaces
Authors: Liu Chih-Hsing , Ho Yuan-Ping , Chi Jui-Chih
Published: March 2024

A compliant constant-force mechanism (CCFM) is a specific type of compliant mechanism that serves as a passive force regulation device. When subjected to a load, it undergoes deformation, resulting in an almost consistent output force regardless of changes in input displacement. Traditional methods used to design CCFMs typically rely on either stiffness combination or parametric optimization based on existing design configurations. To enable the direct synthesis of CCFMs according to desired boundary conditions, this study proposes a systematic topology optimization method. This method includes a new morphology-based scheme designed to ensure the connectivity of the topological results, thereby achieving this objective. Using this approach, a CCFM suitable for end effector applications is designed and manufactured through 3D printing. Four of these CCFMs are then utilized to create an innovative compliant constant-force end effector for robotic operations on uneven surfaces. The experimental results demonstrate that the presented design achieves output force modulation through elastic deformation, eliminating the need for additional sensors and controllers to regulate the output force. The presented design can be mounted on a robotic arm to provide overload protection and maintain a consistent force output during operation when encountering irregular and uneven surfaces.
Impact of Nb and Al content in arc evaporation targets on Ti1−x−yAlxNbyN coating properties
Authors: Dempwolf Henry , Malz Sinah , Schacht Alexander , Fabry Christian , Baumann Axel , Kessler Olaf
Published: March 2024

Titanium-based physical vapor deposition (PVD) coatings, such as titanium nitride (TiN) and titanium niobium nitride (TiNbN), are common solutions for surface modifications in medical applications. Ex vivo studies of retrieved knee implants indicate the demand for increased scratch and abrasion resistance of PVD coatings in clinical applications. Based on the promising mechanical performance of titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) as a coating for tools, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the chemical composition of titanium-based nitride coatings with aluminum (Al) and niobium (Nb). Nine titanium aluminum niobium nitride (Ti1−x−yAlxNbyN) coatings with 0.4 ≤ x < 0.7 and 0 ≤ y ≤ 0.18, as well as commercial TiN and TiNbN, were coated in an industrial scale arc PVD process, following a randomized, multifactorial response surface design. The deposition rate, the scratch resistance, and the hardness were measured following standardized protocols. The microstructure of the coating was analyzed by SEM and XRD. In addition, the surface roughness was determined by laser scanning microscopy. A quadratic regression was performed to determine the impact of the chemical composition on coating properties. Experimental results and regression analyses revealed the significant impact of the chemical composition of Ti1−x−yAlxNbyN on the coating microstructure, mechanics, and morphology. Scratch resistance for initial crack formation and cohesive failure could be increased decisively, compared to TiN.
Isolation of a recombinant simian adenovirus encoding the human adenovirus G52 hexon suggests a simian origin for human adenovirus G52
Authors: Pinski Amanda N. , Gan Tianyu , Lin Shih-Ching , Droit Lindsay , Diamond Michael , Barouch Dan H. , Wang David
Published: March 2024

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are causative agents of morbidity and mortality throughout the world. These double-stranded DNA viruses are phylogenetically classified into seven different species (A–G). HAdV-G52, originally isolated in 2008 from a patient presenting with gastroenteritis, is the sole human-derived member of species G. Phylogenetic analysis previously suggested that HAdV-G52 may have a simian origin, indicating a potential zoonotic spillover into humans. However, evidence of HAdV-G52 in either human or simian populations has not been reported since. Here, we describe the isolation and
in vitro
characterization of rhesus (rh)AdV-69, a novel simian AdV with clear evidence of recombination with HAdV-G52, from the stool of a rhesus macaque. Specifically, the rhAdV-69 hexon capsid protein is 100% identical to that of HAdV-G52, whereas the remainder of the genome is most similar to rhAdV-55, sharing 95.36% nucleic acid identity. A second recombination event with an unknown adenovirus (AdV) is evident at the short fiber gene. From the same sample, we also isolated a second, highly related recombinant AdV (rhAdV-68) that harbors a distinct hexon gene but nearly identical backbone compared to rhAdV-69.
In vitro
, rhAdV-68 and rhAdV-69 demonstrate comparable growth kinetics and tropisms in human cell lines, nonhuman cell lines, and human enteroids. Furthermore, we show that coinfection of highly related AdVs is not unique to this sample since we also isolated coinfecting rhAdVs from two additional rhesus macaque stool samples. Our data collectively contribute to elucidating the origins of HAdV-G52 and provide insights into the frequency of coinfections and subsequent recombination in AdV evolution.

IMPORTANCE

Understanding the host origins of adenoviruses (AdVs) is critical for public health as transmission of viruses from animals to humans can lead to emergent viruses. Recombination between animal and human AdVs can also produce emergent viruses. HAdV-G52 is the only human-derived member of the HAdV G species. It has been suggested that HAdV-G52 has a simian origin. Here, we isolated from a rhesus macaque, a novel rhAdV, rhAdV-69, that encodes a hexon protein that is 100% identical to that of HAdV-G52. This observation suggests that HAdV-G52 may indeed have a simian origin. We also isolated a highly related rhAdV, differing only in the hexon gene, from the same rhesus macaque stool sample as rhAdV-69, illustrating the potential for co-infection of closely related AdVs and recombination at the hexon gene. Furthermore, our study highlights the critical role of whole-genome sequencing in understanding AdV evolution and monitoring the emergence of pathogenic AdVs.
Type 1 fimbriae-mediated collective protection against type 6 secretion system attacks
Authors: Dessartine Margot Marie , Kosta Artemis , Doan Thierry , Cascales Éric , Côté Jean-Philippe
Published: March 2024

Bacterial competition may rely on secretion systems such as the type 6 secretion system (T6SS), which punctures and releases toxic molecules into neighboring cells. To subsist, bacterial targets must counteract the threats posed by T6SS-positive competitors. In this study, we used a comprehensive genome-wide high-throughput screening approach to investigate the dynamics of interbacterial competition. Our primary goal was to identify deletion mutants within the well-characterized
E. coli
K-12 single-gene deletion library, the Keio collection, that demonstrated resistance to T6SS-mediated killing by the enteropathogenic bacterium
Cronobacter malonaticus
. We identified 49 potential mutants conferring resistance to T6SS and focused our interest on a deletion mutant (∆
fimE
) exhibiting enhanced expression of type 1 fimbriae. We demonstrated that the presence of type 1 fimbriae leads to the formation of microcolonies and thus protects against T6SS-mediated assaults. Collectively, our study demonstrated that adhesive structures such as type 1 fimbriae confer collective protective behavior against T6SS attacks.

IMPORTANCE

Type 6 secretion systems (T6SS) are molecular weapons employed by gram-negative bacteria to eliminate neighboring microbes. T6SS plays a pivotal role as a virulence factor, enabling pathogenic gram-negative bacteria to compete with the established communities to colonize hosts and induce infections. Gaining a deeper understanding of bacterial interactions will allow the development of strategies to control the action of systems such as the T6SS that can manipulate bacterial communities. In this context, we demonstrate that bacteria targeted by T6SS attacks from the enteric pathogen
Cronobacter malonaticus
, which poses a significant threat to infants, can develop a collective protective mechanism centered on the production of type I fimbriae. These adhesive structures promote the aggregation of bacterial preys and the formation of microcolonies, which protect the cells from T6SS attacks.
Draft genome of the
Klebsiella pneumoniae
24Kpn33 and complete sequence of its pCOL-1, a plasmid related to the
bla
KPC-2
acquisition in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Abril Deisy , Lesmes-Leon Duway Nicolas , Marquez-Ortiz Ricaurte Alejandro , Leal Aura Lucía , Tovar-Acero Catalina , Corredor Rozo Zayda Lorena , Vanegas Gómez Natasha , Escobar-Perez Javier
Published: March 2024

We report the draft genome of a clinical multi-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(24Kpn33) isolate, whose genome (5.7 Mbp) harbored 17 antibiotic resistance genes, including
bla
KPC-2
. Notably, this gene was mobilized within the IncP-6 pCOL-1 plasmid, the first genetic platform related to the acquisition and dissemination of the
bla
KPC-2
in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
.
Protocol for the diagnostic performance of C reactive protein, procalcitonin and interleukin-6 for serious bacterial infections among children ≤36 months old presenting with fever without source: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sutiman Natalia , Yao Sarah Hui Wen , Goh Sharon Si Min , Sultana Rehena , Chong Shu-Ling
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The management of fever without source in children ≤36 months old remains a diagnostic challenge as the underlying aetiologies can vary from self-limiting viral infections to serious bacterial infections (SBIs). Biomarkers such as C reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) have varying thresholds in the prediction of SBIs due to differences in SBI definitions, SBI prevalence, patient characteristics and timing of presentation. This protocol describes a systematic review and meta-analysis that aims to determine the thresholds at which CRP, PCT and IL-6 can perform optimally in distinguishing the presence of SBIs in children ≤36 months old, as well as to determine their performances in early detection of bacterial infections within 48 hours of fever onset.

Methods and analysis

We will systematically search electronic databases including MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane CENTRAL, EMBASE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature) and Science Citation Index from 1 July 2023 to 31 July 2023. We will include studies that report the diagnostic accuracy of CRP, PCT and IL-6 in detecting SBIs in children aged ≤36 months presenting with fever without apparent source. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomised studies including non-RCTs and controlled before-and-after studies will be included. A meta-analysis will be performed and diagnostic performances of these biomarkers will be reported.

Ethics and dissemination

The results of this study will provide guidance on clinical decision-making in young children presenting with fever without source. Ethics approval will not be required for this study. The authors aim to publish the findings in a peer-reviewed journal as well as present at international conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023439093.
Prevalence and correlates of workplace violence: descriptive results from the National Transgender Discrimination Survey
Authors: Enogieru Idia , Blewitt-Golsch Ashley L. , Hart Lauren J. , LeGrand Sara , Whetten Kathryn , Ostbye Truls , Johnson Candice Y.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To describe the lifetime prevalence of workplace harassment, physical violence and sexual assault against transgender and non-binary workers targeted due to their gender identity and to identify correlates of this workplace violence.

Methods

This descriptive cross-sectional study used data from 4597 transgender or non-binary respondents from the 2008–2009 National Transgender Discrimination Survey. Respondents reported if they had ever experienced harassment, physical violence or sexual assault at work specifically because of their gender identity. We estimated the prevalence of each type of violence stratified by gender identity, race/ethnicity, age, educational attainment, history of working in the street economy (eg, sex industry, drug sales) and if people at work knew their gender identity.

Results

Workplace violence was prevalent, with 50% of transgender and non-binary workers having ever experienced harassment, 7% physical violence and 6% sexual assault at work because of their gender identity. Harassment was common among all of these workers, but physical violence and sexual assault were more than twice as common among transfeminine and non-binary workers assigned male at birth, workers of colour, workers with low educational attainment and those who had ever worked in the street economy.

Conclusions

Transgender and non-binary workers commonly face violence at work because of their gender identity. Workplace violence prevention programmes should incorporate ways to prevent gender identity-based violence and facilitate channels for workers to report the occurrence of discrimination and violence.
Distinct trajectories of lung function from childhood to mid-adulthood
Authors: Zhang Xian , Gray Andrew R , Hancox Robert J
Published: March 2024

Rationale

Life course trajectories of lung function development and decline influence the risk for lung disease but are poorly documented.

Objective

To document lung function trajectories from childhood to mid-adult life.

Methods

We modelled forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC) and FEV1/FVC at ages 9, 11, 13, 15, 18, 21, 26, 32, 38 and 45 years from a population-based cohort using latent profile analysis to identify distinct subgroups of participants with similar lung function trajectories. Regression analyses were used to assess associations between the trajectories, early life factors and postbronchodilator airflow obstruction at age 45.

Results

Among 865 participants with ≥6 measures of lung function, we identified 10 distinct FEV1trajectories. Most were approximately parallel except for a childhood airway hyper-responsiveness-related persistently low trajectory (3% of study population); two accelerated-decline trajectories, one of which (8%) was associated with smoking and higher adult body mass index (BMI) and a catch-up trajectory (8%). Findings for FEV1/FVC trajectories were similar. Nine trajectories were identified for FVC: most were also approximately parallel except for a higher BMI-related accelerated-decline trajectory. The three FEV1trajectories leading to the lowest FEV1values comprised 19% of the cohort but contributed 55% of airflow obstruction at age 45.

Conclusions

Lung function trajectories to mid-adult life are largely established before adolescence, with a few exceptions: a childhood airway hyper-responsiveness-related persistently low trajectory, which starts low and gets worse with age, and accelerated adult decline trajectories associated with smoking and obesity. Adverse trajectories are associated with a high risk of airflow obstruction in mid-adult life.
Electric scooter-related orthopedic injuries: the experience of an Italian orthopedic center and literature review
Authors: Luceri Francesco , Monteleone Valerio , Randelli Pietro Simone
Published: March 2024

Background

With the increasing prevalence of electric scooters, a concomitant increase in the number of specific injuries, emergency department (ED) admissions and hospital admissions have been reported.

Objectives

Analyze patient flow changes in the ED with a focus on e-scooter-related injuries through a case series and a comparison with the contemporary literature.

Data sources

A systematic literature review was performed on Medline/PubMed and Embase using terms related to the topic.

Data collected from two-wheeled vehicle trauma patients at our Italian ED from May 1 to October 31, 2021, were analyzed for the case series.

Study eligibility criteria

Studies were included if they evaluated populations with an e-scooter-related injury referred to the ED with precise localization and nature of the injury reported.

Participants and interventions

Data collected from the literature studies and from our case series included overall ED patient numbers, patient demographics, injury mechanism, location of the injury, discharge diagnosis, and performance of surgery.

Study appraisal and synthesis methods

All studies were checked in order to establish the coherence with the purposes of this review. Data from the contemporary literature and from this case series were compared.

Results

During a 6-month period, 280 patients had e-scooter injuries, resulting in 292 traumas, including 123 fractures, primarily in the elbow. Surgical intervention was necessary for 28 patients. The review included nine papers, highlighting that injuries to the upper and lower extremities and head were frequent in e-scooter-related incidents. The upper extremities were the most common fracture location.

Limitations

The study is a retrospective, single-center study without a comparison group, focusing exclusively on orthopedic injuries.

Conclusions or implications of key findings

The prevalence of electric scooters, which offer an affordable and eco-friendly mode of transport, is steadily increasing. It is important to focus on injury risk mitigation through effective public health policies, thereby lowering costs to society.
An Italian InterLaboratory comparison on personal dose equivalent for dosimetry services: promoting measurements reliability and addressing new digital challenges
Authors: Iafrati Anna Cristina , Cappadozzi Gianluca , Silvestri Claudia , Pinto Massimo
Published: March 2024

An InterLaboratory Comparison on personal dose equivalent, Hp(10), a fundamental part of radiation protection dosimetry measurements, was organized aiming at evaluating the measurement capability of dosimetry services across Italy, in order to ensure the reliability of the measurements. For the intercomparison, each participant sent their own passive dosimeters, which were exposed to gamma radiation beams emitted from a S-Cs source and to medium-energy filtered X-ray beams of the wide spectrum series, at the ISO 4037-1 W-80 quality. Results were evaluated by applying the statistical estimator R, which compares the communicated dose equivalent values and the reference, assigned values, and then evaluated using trumpet curves. Data were acquired using web forms, collected in internal databases, and processed using statistical software, aiming at the automation of analysis and preparation of technical reporting. Results indicate a good level of maturity in the measurement capabilities in radiation protection dosimetry in the italian dosimetry services who participated. The intercomparison was an opportunity for mutual improvement between the participating dosimetric services and the organizing institute: the former were able to compare themselves and have their capabilities assessed from an external provider; while, the latter had the chance to improve their management and organization skills for a large, multi-lateral intercomparison.
Effect of different doping concentrations of X (X = O, Se, Te) on the electronic and optical properties of single layer WS2
Authors: Mu Yansong , Liu Guili , He Jianlin , Gao Xuewen , Chen Yvling , Zhao Jingwei , Zhang Guoying
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we study the effects of different doping concentrations of O, Se, and Te atoms on the electronic structure and optical properties of single layer WS2 based on the density generalization theory of the first principles. The most stable structure. The system doped with Te atoms shows a shift from direct to indirect band gap, and the band gap of the system doped with Se atoms increases slightly. When investigating the optical properties, we also found that the absorption of light in each doped system mostly occurs in the ultraviolet region, and the absorption of light in the system doped with O atoms decreases, while the absorption of light in the system doped with Se and Te atoms changes with different frequencies. The reflectivity is higher than the intrinsic state.
High-crosstalk polarization filter based on double-D photonic crystal fiber with amethyst and gold
Authors: Zeng Yanshu , Lu Xili , Liu Wei , Wang Jianxin , Lv Jingwei , Yang Lin , Chu Paul K. , Liu Chao
Published: March 2024

Polarization filters based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) have undergone rapid development in recent years. In this work, a dual D-type PCF polarization filter based on SPR is designed and analyzed. The filter improves the limiting loss of the core mode by gilding the semi-circular split ring and inlaying amethyst. The influence of the structural parameters of the filter on the filtering characteristics is analyzed by the finite element method. The results show that the core mode losses of the x and y polarized light are 32[Formula: see text]dB/cm and 910.56[Formula: see text]dB/cm at 1.55[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m, respectively. For a fiber length of 1000[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m, the crosstalk and bandwidth are 763.11[Formula: see text]dB and 700[Formula: see text]nm, respectively. In addition, the impact of manufacturing errors in the structural parameters on the filter performance is discussed. The filter has excellent filtering characteristics and large potential in optical communication and optical sensing.
Friction-mediated tuning of shear deformation and microstructure in asymmetrically rolled Mg–1Gd alloy strips
Authors: Huang Xiaolong , Li Xiaopei , Lei Yu , Luo Yuanying , Li Xiaohui , Xiao Xiufeng , Deng Biwei
Published: March 2024

Asymmetric rolling (ASR) is distinguished from conventional symmetric rolling (SR) process as the mismatched rolling speeds of two rolls introduce additional shear deformation to the rolled strips. Friction between the rolls and strip plays an important role in the formation of shear during ASR, which further impacts the microstructures of metallic strips. In this study, finite element (FE) simulations are used to probe the effects of friction in ASR of magnesium (Mg) alloy strips with varied roll speed ratios. The results on shear deformation distributions through the thickness of the strips reveal that the increase of friction coefficient or roll speed ratio induces greater shear deformation simultaneously. It is also found that the roll speed ratio can only promote the shear formation up to a threshold value which is dictated by the friction coefficient, further increasing the mismatch of the roll speeds provides negligible improvement on the plastic deformation of the strips. Experimentally, Mg–1Gd alloy strips are processed by SR and ASR, followed by electropulse treatment (EPT) to induce static recrystallization (SRX). The predictions of the numerical models are verified via EBSD and XRD observations on the grain refinement and texture weakening in Mg–1Gd alloy, which are the direct microstructure consequences of plastic deformations during rolling. At the roll speed ratio of 1.67, the alloy shows a weakened basal texture with an average grain size of 6.0[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m after SRX. Further increasing the roll speed ratio to 5, however, does not enhance the grain refinement or texture weakening significantly.
George Tate (1805–71) of Alnwick, an amateur Victorian polymath, and his contribution to geology in Northumberland and SE Scotland
Authors: Holliday Douglas , Tymon Alison , Tymon Barry
Published: March 2024

George Tate, draper, postmaster and insurance agent, was not only a renowned civic figure during the mid-nineteenth century in his home town of Alnwick but was also, despite limited schooling, a widely celebrated and influential writer on the geology, biology, archaeology and history of Northumberland and adjacent parts of Scotland. His principal geological interests were wide ranging but in the main were devoted to the stratigraphy and palaeontology of the lower part of the Carboniferous System in his local area. Some of the lithostratigraphical terminology he proposed remained in use into the 1950s and, despite changes in nomenclature, elements of his classification can still be recognized in the modern lithostratigraphy. He put forward much evidence for the intrusive origin of the Whin Sill when it was still regarded by many of his contemporaries as a lava flow. Tate was among the first to describe and discuss the evidence in Northumberland and SE Scotland for the then novel idea that Britain had been subjected to the influence of ice in the recent geological past. His brother and two of his sons attended Edinburgh University and had distinguished professional careers. His nephew, Ralph, inherited much of his uncle's wide interests and became a highly celebrated figure in the development of geology in Australia.
A Dual Perspective Framework of Knowledge-correlation for Cross-domain Recommendation
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Xie Qing , Tang Mengzi , Li Lin , Yuan Jingling , Liu Yongjian
Published: March 2024

Recommender System provides users with online services in a personalized way. The performance of traditional recommender systems may deteriorate because of problems such as cold-start and data sparsity. Cross-domain Recommendation System utilizes the richer information from auxiliary domains to guide the task in the target domain. However, direct knowledge transfer may lead to a negative impact due to data heterogeneity and feature mismatch between domains. In this article, we innovatively explore the cross-domain correlation from the perspectives of content semanticity and structural connectivity to fully exploit the information of Knowledge Graph. First, we adopt domain adaptation that automatically extracts transferable features to capture cross-domain semantic relations. Second, we devise a knowledge-aware graph neural network to explicitly model the high-order connectivity across domains. Third, we develop feature fusion strategies to combine the advantages of semantic and structural information. By simulating the cold-start scenario on two real-world datasets, the experimental results show that our proposed method has superior performance in accuracy and diversity compared with the SOTA methods. It demonstrates that our method can accurately predict users’ expressed preferences while exploring their potential diverse interests.
Semi-supervised Multi-view Clustering based on NMF with Fusion Regularization
Authors: Cui Guosheng , Wang Ruxin , Wu Dan , Li Ye
Published: March 2024

Multi-view clustering has attracted significant attention and application. Nonnegative matrix factorization is one popular feature of learning technology in pattern recognition. In recent years, many semi-supervised nonnegative matrix factorization algorithms were proposed by considering label information, which has achieved outstanding performance for multi-view clustering. However, most of these existing methods have either failed to consider discriminative information effectively or included too much hyper-parameters. Addressing these issues, a semi-supervised multi-view nonnegative matrix factorization with a novel fusion regularization (FRSMNMF) is developed in this article. In this work, we uniformly constrain alignment of multiple views and discriminative information among clusters with designed fusion regularization. Meanwhile, to align the multiple views effectively, two kinds of compensating matrices are used to normalize the feature scales of different views. Additionally, we preserve the geometry structure information of labeled and unlabeled samples by introducing the graph regularization simultaneously. Due to the proposed methods, two effective optimization strategies based on multiplicative update rules are designed. Experiments implemented on six real-world datasets have demonstrated the effectiveness of our FRSMNMF comparing with several state-of-the-art unsupervised and semi-supervised approaches.
Influence of Tool Pin Profiles on Aluminium Alloy A356 and Ceramic-Based Nanocomposites for Light Weight Structures by Friction Stir Processing
Authors: Karthick L. , M. Mruthunjaya , S. Srinivas. , R. Prasanna Venkatesh , Gurajala Naveen Kumar , Mothilal Meghavath , Banda Hari
Published: March 2024

In this research, the main aim is to focus the enhancement of aluminium-based metal matrix composites for improving the attributes of light weight metals, aerospace structures and other tailor blank material properties. By this way, the friction stir processing (FSP) was the suited alternate technique to enhancing the mechanical attributes and superior microstructural amendment in the processed MMCs. Therefore, this study investigates the dispersion of ceramic-based strengthening particles of chromium oxide (Cr2O3) in the aluminium base matrix of A356 alloy. During the processing, the different tool pin sizes having the conical threaded tool pin profiles. Similarly, the tool spinning speed and tool travel speed also varied while in FSP. Before the processing, the A356 alloy was prepared by the grooved surfaces for packing the chromium oxide particles to compose the aluminium metal matrix composites. The tensile strength and hardness was employed to carry out from the friction stir processed A356 alloy with influencing of Cr2O3. The maximum occurred tensile processing parameters are 1500 rpm of spinning speed, 6 mm of tool pin sizes and 90 mm/min of tool travel speed. Similarly, the maximum obtained hardness processing parameter are 2000 rpm of spinning speed, 5 mm of tool pin sizes and 90 mm/min of tool travel speed. A scanning electron microscope was utilized to investigate the dispersed Cr2O3 in the A356 alloy for confirming the refinement grains in the nugget zones of FSPed A356 alloy. The increased grain boundary by the influence of different tool pin sizes was the major reason to produces the better mechanical properties in the processed A356/Cr2O3.