bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infant feeding and criticality in children
Authors: Sorce Lauren R. , Asaro Lisa A. , Curley Martha A. Q. ,   for the RESTORE Study Investigators
Published: June 2024

Background

Data support the protective effects of human breast milk (HBM) feeding in acute illness but little is known about the impact of HBM feeding on the criticality of infants.

Aim

To explore the relationship between early HBM feeding and severity of illness and recovery in critically ill children requiring intubation and mechanical ventilation for acute respiratory failure (ARF).

Study design

Prospective cohort study of mothers of patients aged 1–36 months who participated in the acute and follow‐up phases of the Randomized Evaluation of Sedation Titration for Respiratory Failure (RESTORE) clinical trial. Participants completed a survey describing HBM dose fed during their infant's first month of life.

Results

Of 138 patients, 70 (51%) received exclusive HBM feedings (90%–100% total feeds) and 68 (49%) did not. We found no group differences in severity of illness on paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission or severity of paediatric acute respiratory distress syndrome (PARDS) within the first 24–48 h of intubation/mechanical ventilation (Pediatric Risk of Mortality [PRISM] III‐12 score median: 5 vs. 5, p = .88; moderate/severe PARDS: 53% vs. 54%, p = .63). While median time to recovery from ARF was reduced by 1 day in patients who received exclusive HBM feedings, the difference between groups was not statistically significant (median 1.5 vs. 2.6 days, hazard ratio 1.40 [95% confidence interval, 0.99–1.97], p = .06).

Conclusions

Human breast milk dose was not associated with severity of illness on PICU admission in children requiring mechanical ventilation for ARF.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Data support the protective effects of HBM during acute illness and data from this study support a clinically important reduction in time to recovery of ARF. Paediatric nurses should continue to champion HBM feeding to advance improvements in infant health.
Modeled impacts of bouillon fortification with micronutrients on child mortality in Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria
Authors: Thompson Lauren , Becher Emily , Adams Katherine P. , Haile Demewoz , Walker Neff , Tong Hannah , Vosti Stephen A. , Engle‐Stone Reina
Published: June 2024

Micronutrient interventions can reduce child mortality. By applying Micronutrient Intervention Modeling methods in Senegal, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria, we estimated the impacts of bouillon fortification on apparent dietary adequacy of vitamin A and zinc among children and folate among women. We then used the Lives Saved Tool to predict the impacts of bouillon fortification with ranges of vitamin A, zinc, and folic acid concentrations on lives saved among children 6–59 months of age. Fortification at 250 µg vitamin A/g and 120 µg folic acid/g was predicted to substantially reduce vitamin A– and folate‐attributable deaths: 65% for vitamin A and 92% for folate (Senegal), 36% for vitamin A and 74% for folate (Burkina Faso), and >95% for both (Nigeria). Zinc fortification at 5 mg/g would avert 48% (Senegal), 31% (Burkina Faso), and 63% (Nigeria) of zinc‐attributable deaths. The addition of all three nutrients at 30% of Codex nutrient reference values in 2.5 g bouillon was predicted to save an annual average of 293 child lives in Senegal (3.5% of deaths from all causes among children 6–59 months of age), 933 (2.1%) in Burkina Faso, and 18,362 (3.7%) in Nigeria. These results, along with evidence on program feasibility and costs, can help inform fortification program design discussions.
Incidence of complications after nonoperating room anesthesia in children in a low‐ and middle‐income country: A prospective and observational study
Authors: Jarraya Anouar , Kammoun Manel , Khcharem Jaouhar , Cherif Olfa , Feki Wiem , Mnif Zeinab
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Nonoperating room anesthesia is a growing field of medicine that can have an increased risk of complications, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of complications after pediatric nonoperating room anesthesia and investigate its risk factors.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, we included all children aged less than 5 years who were sedated or anesthetized in the radiology setting of a university hospital in a low‐ and middle‐income country. Patients were divided into two groups: complications or no‐complications groups. Then, we compared both groups, and univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate the main risk factors for complications.

Results

We included 256 children, and the incidence of complications was 8.6%. The main predictors of nonoperating room anesthesia‐related morbidity were: critically‐ill children (aOR = 2.490; 95% CI: 1.55–11.21), predicted difficult airway (aOR = 5.704; 95% CI: 1.017–31.98), and organization insufficiencies (aOR = 52.6; 95% CI:4.55–613). The preanesthetic consultation few days before NORA protected against complications (aOR = 0.263; 95%CI: 0.080–0.867).

Conclusions

The incidence of complications during NORA among children in our radiology setting remains high. Investigating predictors for morbidity allowed high‐risk patient selection, which allowed taking precautions. Several improvement measures were taken to address the organization's insufficiencies.
Arginine vasopressin in mood disorders: A potential biomarker of disease pathology and a target for pharmacologic intervention
Authors: Hu Hiroe , Zarate Carlos A. , Verbalis Joseph
Published: June 2024

Vasopressin or arginine‐vasopressin (AVP) is a neuropeptide molecule known for its antidiuretic effects and serves to regulate plasma osmolality and blood pressure. The existing literature suggests that AVP plays a multifaceted—though less well‐known—role in the central nervous system (CNS), particularly in relation to the pathophysiology and treatment of mood disorders. Animal models have demonstrated that AVP is implicated in regulating social cognition, affiliative and prosocial behaviors, and aggression, often in conjunction with oxytocin. In humans, AVP is implicated in mood disorders through its effects on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis as well as on the serotoninergic and glutamatergic systems. Measuring plasma AVP has yielded interesting but mixed results in mood and stress‐related disorders. Recent advances have led to the development of copeptin as a stable and reliable surrogate biomarker for AVP. Another interesting but relatively unexplored issue is the interaction between the osmoregulatory system and mood disorder pathophysiology, given that psychotropic medications often cause dysregulation of AVP receptor expression or signaling that can subsequently lead to clinical syndromes like syndrome of inappropriate diuresis and diabetes insipidus. Finally, pharmaceutical trials of agents that act on V1a and V1b receptor antagonists are still underway. This narrative review summarizes: (1) the neurobiology of the vasopressinergic system in the CNS; (2) the interaction between AVP and the monoaminergic and glutamatergic pathways in the pathophysiology and treatment of mood disorders; (3) the iatrogenic AVP dysregulation caused by psychotropic medications; and (4) the pharmaceutical development of AVP receptor antagonists for the treatment of mood disorders.
How teams can overcome silence: The roles of humble leadership and team commitment
Authors: Zettna Nate , Nguyen Helena , Restubog Simon Lloyd D. , Schilpzand Pauline , Johnson Anya
Published: June 2024

Team performance can be eroded or undermined when team members intentionally withhold information, such as suggestions for improvements, or concerns about issues that matter for the team. Yet, we know very little about whether silence in teams (team silence) in fact reduces team performance, and if it does, how team silence might be ameliorated. Grounded in social information processing (SIP) theory, we hypothesize and investigate the role of leaders as a potent social informational source to reduce team silence and in turn, enhance team performance. We further posit the role of team commitment to the organization as an important amplifier of humble leadership in reducing team silence. Across a programmatic series of five empirical studies involving experimental, multisource, and multiwave field data, we found support for the negative relationship between leader humility and team silence. Team silence also mediated the relationship between leader humility and team performance in a variety of work contexts. Findings supported that the benefits of leader humility were amplified in teams with higher levels of organizational commitment. Overall, this paper contributes new theoretical and practical insights by identifying leader humility as a preventative antecedent to team silence, with team commitment to the organization as an important qualifier of the impact of humble leadership on teams.
Content validation of a Facebook HPV vaccination promotion intervention (#HPVvaxtalks) created for young Black adults (18–26 years old)
Authors: Adebola Adegboyega , Charis Ebikwo , Tristan Ntego , Melinda Ickes
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite the expansion in human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination recommendations, vaccine uptake and completion remain low among Black individuals. An 8‐week Facebook intervention (#HPVvaxtalks) was developed to increase knowledge and awareness of HPV risk factors, risk perceptions, and vaccination intention and uptake. This article details the formative phase of experts’ feedback and participants’ satisfaction on the components of the #HPVvaxtalks for content useability, acceptability, relevance, and visual appeal to inform further refinements.

Method

A convenience sample of 5 experts and 13 young Black adults were invited to provide feedback on #HPVvaxtalks intervention content. The experts reviewed and provided feedback via a survey and open‐ended questions. After incorporating suggestions from experts’ feedback, 13 participants viewed #HPVvaxtalks posts, took part in a virtual focus group, and completed a survey. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed and integrated with survey results.

Results

Experts and participants mean age were 41.9 ± 2.3 and 21.2 ± 1.9 years, respectively. Experts and participants reported positive ratings for intervention posts, including useability, acceptability, relevance, and visual appeal. Data provided areas for improvements of #HPVvaxtalks.   

Conclusion

Experts indicated strong content validity and participants showed satisfaction with #HPVvaxtalks content. Ensuring acceptability, relevance, and appeal of the intervention for the target population is an integral part of intervention development.
Conceptual‐level disgust conditioning in contamination‐based obsessive‐compulsive disorder
Authors: Wang Jinxia , Becker Benjamin , Wang Yizhen , Ming Xianchao , Lei Yi , Wikgren Jan
Published: June 2024

Pavlovian fear conditioning and extinction represent learning mechanisms underlying exposure‐based interventions. While increasing evidence indicates a pivotal role of disgust in the development of contamination‐based obsessive‐compulsive disorder (C‐OCD), dysregulations in conditioned disgust acquisition and maintenance, in particular driven by higher‐order conceptual processes, have not been examined. Here, we address this gap by exposing individuals with high (HCC, n = 41) or low (LCC, n = 41) contamination concern to a conceptual‐level disgust conditioning and extinction paradigm. Conditioned stimuli (CS+) were images from one conceptual category partially reinforced by unconditioned disgust‐eliciting stimuli (US), while images from another category served as non‐reinforced conditioned stimuli (CS−). Skin conductance responses (SCRs), US expectancy and CS valence ratings served as primary outcomes to quantify conditioned disgust responses. Relative to LCC, HCC individuals exhibited increased US expectancy and CS+ disgust experience, but comparable SCR levels following disgust acquisition. Despite a decrease in conditioned responses from the acquisition phase to the extinction phase, both groups did not fully extinguish the learned disgust. Importantly, the extinction resilience of acquired disgust was more pronounced in HCC individuals. Together, our findings suggest that individuals with high self‐reported contamination concern exhibit increased disgust acquisition and resistance to extinction. The findings provide preliminary evidence on how dysregulated disgust learning mechanism across semantically related concepts may contribute to C‐OCD.
Mineralogical and geochemical features of the Sirna Mn‐Fe deposit in the Kurdistan region, northeastern Iraq: Unveiling the formation of a Mn‐Fe silica gel plume via serpentinization hydrothermal mechanisms
Authors: Mohammad Yousif , Latif Dnya , Pirouei Mohammad , Omer Danar
Published: June 2024

The study probes the mineralogical and geochemical features of manganese‐iron deposits located in the Sirna area, which is a part of the late Cretaceous Walash Group in the Zagros suture zone, situated in the Kurdistan region of northeastern Iraq. Our investigation comprised field surveys, examination of ore petrography, besides using x‐ray diffraction, SEM‐EDS analysis, x‐ray fluorescence analyses, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry techniques conducted on a set of representative samples. A significant Mn‐Fe ovoidal ore body, extending across 25 meters in diameter, protrudes between the lower strata of soft gray shale and the upper strata of massive limestone within the Walash group. The deposit exhibits a distinct separation into three layers: a lower horizon characterized by abundance of oxide of silicon, an upper horizon enriched in manganese oxide, and a transition layer dominated by hematite (Fe2O3). From a geochemical perspective, there is a gradual decrease in Fe2O3 and SiO2 from the lower to the upper part of the deposit, while MnO, BaO, and SO3 demonstrate a gradual increase. The co‐association of Mn‐Fe‐mineralization in a small restricted tabular ore body suggests that they are genetically related. Within the Sirna manganese‐iron deposit, the prevalent manganese and iron mineral phases are braunite, hollandite, and hematite. Concurrently, the gangue minerals in this deposit encompass cryptocrystalline spheroidal quartz, barite, calcite, and apatite. The Sirna Mn‐Fe deposit exhibits geochemical characteristics such as elevated levels of MnO (reaching up to 68 wt.%) and significant Fe2O3 content (up to 45 wt.%) in the upper manganese and transitional iron horizons, respectively. The Co/Zn ratio (0.28), Ce/La ratio (1.78), low levels of transitional elements (Co + Ni + Cu <0.01 wt.%), and varying concentrations of Ba (up to 6.9 wt.%) suggest that the Siran Mn‐Fe deposit is likely originated from a manganese‐iron silica gel plume that separated from hydrothermal fluids linked to serpentinization. This process is thought to have occurred in the mantle wedge along subduction zone, typically within an arc tectonic environment. Moreover, the presence of remnants of micro‐organisms such as EPS layers, different types of filaments, which are densely covered by biominerals, are important evidence of microbial effect in the mineralization of Mn‐Fe in the study area.
Presidents and nonprofits: Illustrating compositional modeling of the U.S. nonprofit sector
Authors: Zuhlke Samantha
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Nonprofits sit at the intersection of policy and politics. Compositional modeling presents an opportunity for nonprofit scholars to investigate trade‐offs within the nonprofit sector.

Methods

Using U.S. nonprofit and political data from 1993 to 2013, I employ a dynamic pie modeling strategy to illustrate how federal politics affect the composition of the nonprofit sector.

Results

U.S. federal politics, measured as changes in presidential partisanship, correlate with trade‐offs in the composition of the nonprofit sector. Democratic presidents are associated with increases in new Human Services (HU), Environment and Animals (EN), and International/Foreign Affairs (IN) nonprofits and decreases in new Arts/Culture/Humanities (AR), Education (ED), Health (HE), Religion Related (RE), and Unknown/Unclassified (UN) nonprofit organizations.

Conclusions

Theoretically, politics may play a greater role in the nonprofit sector than scholars currently give credence to. Empirically, compositional modeling strategies provide avenues for new theoretical and empirical insights into nonprofit organizations.
The Fagradalsfjall and Sundhnúkur Fires of 2021–2024: A single magma reservoir under the Reykjanes Peninsula, Iceland?
Authors: Troll Valentin R. , Deegan Frances M. , Thordarson Thor , Tryggvason Ari , Krmíček Lukáš , Moreland William M. , Lund Björn , Bindeman Ilya N. , Höskuldsson Ármann , Day James M. D.
Published: June 2024

The Reykjanes Peninsula (RP) hosts several volcanic lineaments that have been periodically active over the last 4000 years. Since 2021, following a ca. 800‐year quiescence, eight eruptions have occurred on the RP, with more expected in the future. To better understand the origins of this renewed volcanism and help forecast future eruptions, we examine (i) if the ongoing volcanism is fed from a single or multiple magma storage zone(s) or from several smaller reservoirs and; (ii) where the zone(s) are located (i.e. mantle or lower or upper crustal depths). Using major and trace element geochemistry, oxygen isotopes, and seismic tomography we rule out a single, RP‐scale, deep‐seated magma storage zone. Instead we propose the presence of a ca. 10‐km‐wide region of crustal‐level (9–12 km) magma accumulation beneath the Fagradalsfjall volcanic lineament that fed both the 2021–23 eruptions of the Fagradalsfjall Fires and the 2023–24 eruptions of the Sundhnúkur Fires.
A deletion in FLS2 and its expansion after domestication caused global dissemination of melon cultivars defective in flagellin recognition
Authors: Jin Chujia , Matsuo Hiroki , Nakayama Yoshizo , Shigita Gentaro , Inoue Yoshihiro , Kato Kenji , Takano Yoshitaka
Published: June 2024

FLAGELLIN SENSING 2 (FLS2) encodes a pattern recognition receptor that perceives bacterial flagellin. While putative FLS2 orthologs are broadly conserved in plants, their functional characterization remains limited. Here, we report the identification of orthologs in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and melon (C. melo), named CsFLS2 and CmFLS2, respectively. Homology searching identified CsFLS2, and virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) demonstrated that CsFLS2 is required for flg22‐triggered ROS generation. Interestingly, genome re‐sequencing of melon cv. Lennon and subsequent genomic PCR revealed that Lennon has two CmFLS2 haplotypes, haplotype I encoding full‐length CmFLS2 and haplotype II encoding a truncated form. We show that VIGS‐mediated knockdown of CmFLS2 haplotype I resulted in a significant reduction in both flg22‐triggered ROS generation and immunity to a bacterial pathogen in melon cv. Lennon. Remarkably, genomic PCR of CmFLS2 revealed that 68% of tested commercial melon cultivars possess only CmFLS2 haplotype II: these cultivars thus lack functional CmFLS2. To explore evolutionary aspects of CmFLS2 haplotype II occurrence, we genotyped the CmFLS2 locus in 142 melon accessions by genomic PCR and analyzed 437 released sequences. The results suggest that CmFLS2 haplotype II is derived from C. melo subsp. melo. Furthermore, we suggest that the proportion of CmFLS2 haplotype II increased among the improved melo group compared with the primitive melo group. Collectively, these findings suggest that the deleted FLS2 locus generated in the primitive melo subspecies expanded after domestication, resulting in the spread of commercial melon cultivars defective in flagellin recognition, which is critical for bacterial immunity.
It's not always histiocytic sarcoma: Immunocytochemistry to identify two unusual tumors in a Bernese Mountain dog
Authors: Quinn Claire , Harding Kayla , Schlein Lisa J. , Korchia Jérémie , Coffee Laura L. , MacNeill Amy L. , Tucker‐Mohl Katherine , Duval Dawn L. , Brandt Laura E.
Published: June 2024

A 7‐year‐old female spayed Bernese Mountain dog was presented for evaluation of hematuria. Incidentally, a right stifle sarcoma was diagnosed via cytology, which raised concern for histiocytic sarcoma (given the patient's signalment) versus another joint‐associated sarcoma. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry revealed a CD18‐negative, non‐histiocytic origin cell population. Findings were consistent with a joint‐associated grade II soft tissue sarcoma (STS). The patient's hematuria was progressive over 5 months, and urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) was diagnosed via cystoscopy and histopathology. An enlarged right medial iliac lymph node was identified on routine restaging via abdominal ultrasound 3 months later. Cytology of the lymph node revealed a markedly pleomorphic cell population, again raising concern for histiocytic sarcoma (HS). Other differentials included an anaplastic metastatic population from the joint‐associated STS or the TCC. Immunocytochemistry revealed a cytokeratin‐positive, CD18‐, CD204‐, and vimentin‐negative cell population, consistent with a carcinoma. DNA was extracted from cytology slides to sequence cells for BRAF mutation status. Sequencing revealed a homozygous V596E (transcript ENSCAFT00845055173.1) BRAF mutation, consistent with the known biology of TCC. In neither case was HS truly present in this patient, but immunocytochemistry provided information that helped to optimize the patient's chemotherapy recommendations.
2024 RECOVER Guidelines: Advanced Life Support. Evidence and knowledge gap analysis with treatment recommendations for small animal CPR
Authors: Wolf Jacob , Buckley Gareth J. , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , Fletcher Daniel J. , Boller Manuel , Burkitt‐Creedon Jamie M. , Weigand Kelly A. , Crews Molly , Fausak Erik D. ,   and the RECOVER Advanced Life Support Domain Worksheet Authors
Published: June 2024

Objective

To systematically review the evidence and devise clinical recommendations on advanced life support (ALS) in dogs and cats and to identify critical knowledge gaps.

Design

Standardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to ALS following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by ALS Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co‐Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk:benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization.

Setting

Transdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice.

Results

Seventeen questions pertaining to vascular access, vasopressors in shockable and nonshockable rhythms, anticholinergics, defibrillation, antiarrhythmics, and adjunct drug therapy as well as open‐chest CPR were reviewed. Of the 33 treatment recommendations formulated, 6 recommendations addressed the management of patients with nonshockable arrest rhythms, 10 addressed shockable rhythms, and 6 provided guidance on open‐chest CPR. We recommend against high‐dose epinephrine even after prolonged CPR and suggest that atropine, when indicated, is used only once. In animals with a shockable rhythm in which initial defibrillation was unsuccessful, we recommend doubling the defibrillator dose once and suggest vasopressin (or epinephrine if vasopressin is not available), esmolol, lidocaine in dogs, and/or amiodarone in cats.

Conclusions

These updated RECOVER ALS guidelines clarify the approach to refractory shockable rhythms and prolonged CPR. Very low quality of evidence due to absence of clinical data in dogs and cats continues to compromise the certainty with which recommendations can be made.
2024 RECOVER Guidelines: Monitoring. Evidence and knowledge gap analysis with treatment recommendations for small animal CPR
Authors: Brainard Benjamin M. , Lane Selena L. , Burkitt‐Creedon Jamie M. , Boller Manuel , Fletcher Daniel J. , Crews Molly , Fausak Erik D. ,   the RECOVER Monitoring Domain Evidence Evaluators
Published: June 2024

Objective

To systematically review evidence on and devise treatment recommendations for patient monitoring before, during, and following CPR in dogs and cats, and to identify critical knowledge gaps.

Design

Standardized, systematic evaluation of literature pertinent to peri‐CPR monitoring following Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Prioritized questions were each reviewed by Evidence Evaluators, and findings were reconciled by Monitoring Domain Chairs and Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) Co‐Chairs to arrive at treatment recommendations commensurate to quality of evidence, risk:benefit relationship, and clinical feasibility. This process was implemented using an Evidence Profile Worksheet for each question that included an introduction, consensus on science, treatment recommendations, justification for these recommendations, and important knowledge gaps. A draft of these worksheets was distributed to veterinary professionals for comment for 4 weeks prior to finalization.

Setting

Transdisciplinary, international collaboration in university, specialty, and emergency practice.

Results

Thirteen questions pertaining to hemodynamic, respiratory, and metabolic monitoring practices for identification of cardiopulmonary arrest, quality of CPR, and postcardiac arrest care were examined, and 24 treatment recommendations were formulated. Of these, 5 recommendations pertained to aspects of end‐tidal CO2 (ETco2) measurement. The recommendations were founded predominantly on very low quality of evidence, with some based on expert opinion.

Conclusions

The Monitoring Domain authors continue to support initiation of chest compressions without pulse palpation. We recommend multimodal monitoring of patients at risk of cardiopulmonary arrest, at risk of re‐arrest, or under general anesthesia. This report highlights the utility of ETco2 monitoring to verify correct intubation, identify return of spontaneous circulation, evaluate quality of CPR, and guide basic life support measures. Treatment recommendations further suggest intra‐arrest evaluation of electrolytes (ie, potassium and calcium), as these may inform outcome‐relevant interventions.
Exploring the Potential of Video Games in Enhancing Language Learning
Authors: Mohd Tap Mohamad Farhan , Abdul Samat Norhanim , Abdullah Tina
Published: June 2024

In the past few years, computer games have become popular as immersive language learning tools which help students to improve their language skills. This paper seeks to find out if video games can be used to improve language learning and to see the positive aspects of video games for this task. The participant for this research is based on 58 participants who had taken an English language class at a university in Johor; from which eight volunteers were selected for the interview. In our study we used mixed-method approach, and a survey was carried out by asking students questions about their general perceptions of the usage of video games for learning in the English language as well as getting to know challenges that students are facing while using these games to practice the language. Overall, they had a positive attitude towards video games in an educational environment. The findings highlight the significance of putting technology integration into education since online video games are a very convenient tool in stimulating their active participation learning English and communicative diversity.
Controlling electron and hole concentration in MoS2 through scalable plasma processes
Authors: Smyth Christopher M. , Ohta Taisuke , Chou Stanley S. , Lu Tzu-Ming
Published: June 2024

Conventional high-energy ion implant processes lack implant depth precision and minimally damaging properties needed to dope atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors by ion modification without undesirable side effects. To overcome this limitation, controllable, reproducible, and robust doping methods must be developed for atomically thin semiconductors to enable commercially viable wafer-scale 2D material-based logic, memory, and optical devices. Ultralow energy ion implantation and plasma exposure are among the most promising approaches to realize high carrier concentrations in 2D semiconductors. Here, we develop two different plasma processes using commercially available semiconductor processing tools to achieve controllable electron and hole doping in 2H-MoS2. Doping concentrations are calculated from the measured Fermi level shift within the MoS2 electronic bandgap using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. We achieve electron doping up to 1.5 × 1019 cm−3 using a remote argon/hydrogen (H2) plasma process, which controllably generates sulfur vacancies. Hole doping up to 4.2 × 1017 cm−3 is realized using an inductively coupled helium/SF6 plasma, which substitutes fluorine into the MoS2 lattice at sulfur sites. The high doping concentrations reported here highlight the potential of scalable plasma processes for MoS2, which is crucial for enabling complementary circuits based on 2D semiconductors.
In situ mass spectrometric investigation to probe GeSn growth dynamics and mechanisms in the chemical vapor deposition processes
Authors: Grant Joshua M. , Yang Enbo , Masoumi Narges , Golden Alexander , Margetis Joe , Chizmeshya Andrew , Du Wei , Yu Shui-Qing
Published: June 2024

GeSn has attracted increasing attention due to its tunable bandgap from indirect to direct resulting in unique electronic and optoelectronic capabilities. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is well acknowledged as an advanced growth method for GeSn, demonstrating its capability with grown materials for infrared lasers and detector development. As an in situ diagnostics of the CVD process, a residual gas analyzer (RGA) could enable the detection of all gaseous species during growth, thus probing the growth dynamics and mechanism. Therefore, it is highly desirable but is lacking in the (Si)GeSn research community. This work utilized an RGA equipped with a specialized differential vacuum pumping system to analyze the mass spectra of the GeSn CVD precursors of SnCl4, GeH4, and their combination. The spectra of SnCl4 collected from gas samples at a standard base pressure of 0.3 Torr display consistent fragments with central mass-to-charge ratios (m/z) of 78, 120, 155, 225, and 260, corresponding to Sn+, SnCl2+, SnCl+, SnCl2+, SnCl3+, and SnCl4+, respectively. These profiles closely resemble those observed in the National Institute of Standards and Technology and Wiley and Matsumoto et al. The simultaneous introduction of SnCl4 and GeH4 at a combined pressure of several tens of Torr yields spectra, indicating a chemical reaction that produces GeCl4 at room temperature in the vacuum chamber and tubing. Utilizing Gaussian16 and ORCA codes, the ab initio and density functional thermochemistry computations were employed to predict potential essential reactions and validate the experimental findings.
Intensity and Appreciation of Sweet Taste Solutions Are Modulated by High-Intensity Aerobic Exercise in Adolescent Athletic Males
Authors: Gauthier Alexandre-Charles , Villeneuve Marc-Étienne , Cournoyer Mathieu , Mathieu Marie-Eve
Published: June 2024

Purpose: Exercise seems to influence taste, but the effect of exercise on specific tastes is still to be elucidated among youths. Methods: Athlete boys aged 14–16 years were recruited. Participants (n = 19) ages ranged 14.7 (0.7) years, weight 59.6 (7.8) kg, and height of 173.4 (7.9) cm. Distinct taste tests were administered using low and high concentrations of sweet, salty, and bitter solutions before and after a 30-minute aerobic exercise session (70%–90% of estimated maximal heart rate). McNemmar tests, standard paired t tests, Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and Cohen d effect size tests were used to analyze taste identification, intensity, and appreciation. Results: There were no significant differences in taste identification capacities after exercise. Participants perceived more intense (P = .037) and appreciated better (P = .004) the low-concentration sweet solution after exercise. Taste appreciation was increased for the high-concentration sweet solution (P = .009) after exercise. Effect sizes were moderate (0.516–0.776). Possible effects were noted for the intensity of salty solutions (P = .0501 and .0543). Conclusion: Following an exercise session, participants had increased perceived intensity and appreciation of sweet solutions. This adds new insights into how exercise influences taste in youths, a topic less documented compared with adults, suggesting further research into its impact on dietary choices is needed.
Seamounts generate efficient active transport loops to nourish the twilight ecosystem
Authors: Wang Xinyang , Li Hongliang , Zhang Jingjing , Chen Jianfang , Xie Xiaohui , Xie Wei , Yin Kedong , Zhang Dongsheng , Ruiz-Pino Diana , Kao Shuh-Ji
Published: June 2024

Seamounts are ecological oases nurturing abundant fisheries resources and epibenthic megafauna in the vast oligotrophic ocean. Despite their significance, the formation mechanisms underlying these seamount ecological oases remain uncertain. To shed light on this phenomenon, this study conducted interdisciplinary in situ observations focusing on a shallow seamount in the oligotrophic ocean. The findings show that the seamount’s topography interferes with the oceanic current to generate lee waves, effectively enhancing the nutrient supply to the euphotic layer downstream of the seamount. This continuous supply enhances phytoplankton biomass and subsequently the grazing and diurnal vertical migration of zooplankton, rapidly transporting the augmented phytoplankton biomass to the aphotic layer. Unlike the cyclonic eddies that move in the upper ocean, seamounts stand at fixed locations creating a more efficient and steady active transport loop. This active transport loop connects the euphotic and twilight zones, potentially conveying nourishment to benthic ecosystems to create stereoscopic oases in the oligotrophic ocean.
A chimeric membrane enzyme and an engineered whole-cell biocatalyst for efficient 1-alkene production
Authors: Iqbal Tabish , Murugan Subhashini , Das Debasis
Published: June 2024

Bioproduction of 1-alkenes from naturally abundant free fatty acids offers a promising avenue toward the next generation of hydrocarbon-based biofuels and green commodity chemicals. UndB is the only known membrane-bound 1-alkene–producing enzyme, with great potential for 1-alkene bioproduction, but the enzyme exhibits limited turnovers, thus restricting its widespread usage. Here, we explore the molecular basis of the limitation of UndB activity and substantially improve its catalytic power. We establish that the enzyme undergoes peroxide-mediated rapid inactivation during catalysis. To counteract this inactivation, we engineered a chimeric membrane enzyme by conjugating UndB with catalase that protected UndB against peroxide and enhanced its number of turnovers tremendously. Notably, our chimeric enzyme is the only example of a membrane enzyme successfully engineered with catalase. We subsequently constructed a whole-cell biocatalytic system and achieved remarkable efficiencies (up to 95%) in the biotransformation of a wide range of fatty acids (both aliphatic and aromatic) into corresponding 1-alkenes with numerous biotechnological applications.
A data-efficient and easy-to-use lip language interface based on wearable motion capture and speech movement reconstruction
Authors: Liu Shiqiang , Fawden Terry , Zhu Rong , Malliaras George G. , Bance Manohar
Published: June 2024

Lip language recognition urgently needs wearable and easy-to-use interfaces for interference-free and high-fidelity lip-reading acquisition and to develop accompanying data-efficient decoder-modeling methods. Existing solutions suffer from unreliable lip reading, are data hungry, and exhibit poor generalization. Here, we propose a wearable lip language decoding technology that enables interference-free and high-fidelity acquisition of lip movements and data-efficient recognition of fluent lip language based on wearable motion capture and continuous lip speech movement reconstruction. The method allows us to artificially generate any wanted continuous speech datasets from a very limited corpus of word samples from users. By using these artificial datasets to train the decoder, we achieve an average accuracy of 92.0% across individuals (n= 7) for actual continuous and fluent lip speech recognition for 93 English sentences, even observing no training burn on users because all training datasets are artificially generated. Our method greatly minimizes users’ training/learning load and presents a data-efficient and easy-to-use paradigm for lip language recognition.
AZD3152 neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 historical and contemporary variants and is protective in hamsters and well tolerated in adults
Authors: Cai Yingyun , Diallo Seme , Rosenthal Kim , Ren Kuishu , Flores Daniel J. , Dippel Andrew , Oganesyan Vaheh , van Dyk Nydia , Chen Xiaoru , Cantu Erin , Choudhary Rakesh , Sulikowski Michal , Adissu Hibret , Chawla Bhavna , Kar Swagata , Liu Chang , Dijokaite-Guraliuc Aiste , Mongkolsapaya Juthathip , Rajan Saravanan , Loo Yueh-Ming , Beavon Rohini , Webber Chris , Chang Lee-Jah , Thomas Steven , Clegg Lindsay , Zhang Huixia , Screaton Gavin R. , Philbin Nora , Harre Mark , Selim Abdulhafez , Martinez-Alier Nuria , Uriel Alison , Cohen Taylor S. , Perez John L. , Esser Mark T. , Blair Wade , Francica Joseph R.
Published: June 2024

The evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in variants that can escape neutralization by therapeutic antibodies. Here, we describe AZD3152, a SARS-CoV-2–neutralizing monoclonal antibody designed to provide improved potency and coverage against emerging variants. AZD3152 binds to the back left shoulder of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein receptor binding domain and prevents interaction with the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor. AZD3152 potently neutralized a broad panel of pseudovirus variants, including the currently dominant Omicron variant JN.1 but has reduced potency against XBB subvariants containing F456L. In vitro studies confirmed F456L resistance and additionally identified T415I and K458E as escape mutations. In a Syrian hamster challenge model, prophylactic administration of AZD3152 protected hamsters from weight loss and inflammation-related lung pathologies and reduced lung viral load. In the phase 1 sentinel safety cohort of the ongoing SUPERNOVA study (
ClinicalTrials.gov
: NCT05648110), a single 600-mg intramuscular injection of AZD5156 (containing 300 mg each of AZD3152 and cilgavimab) was well tolerated in adults through day 91. Observed serum concentrations of AZD3152 through day 91 were similar to those observed with cilgavimab and consistent with predictions for AZD7442, a SARS-CoV-2–neutralizing antibody combination of cilgavimab and tixagevimab, in a population pharmacokinetic model. On the basis of its pharmacokinetic characteristics, AZD3152 is predicted to provide durable protection against symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 caused by susceptible SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as JN.1, in humans.
Role of cold shock proteins B and D in
Aeromonas salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
physiology and virulence in lumpfish (
Cyclopterus lumpus
)
Authors: Hossain Ahmed , Gnanagobal Hajarooba , Cao Trung , Chakraborty Setu , Chukwu-Osazuwa Joy , Soto-Dávila Manuel , Vasquez Ignacio , Santander Javier
Published: June 2024

Cold shock proteins (Csp) are pivotal nucleic acid binding proteins known for their crucial roles in the physiology and virulence of various bacterial pathogens affecting plant, insect, and mammalian hosts. However, their significance in bacterial pathogens of teleost fish remains unexplored.
Aeromonas salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
(hereafter
A. salmonicida
) is a psychrotrophic pathogen and the causative agent of furunculosis in marine and freshwater fish. Four
csp
genes (
cspB, cspD, cspA
, and
cspC
) have been identified in the genome of
A. salmonicida
J223 (wild type). Here, we evaluated the role of DNA binding proteins, CspB and CspD, in
A. salmonicida
physiology and virulence in lumpfish (
Cyclopterus lumpus
).
A. salmonicida
Δ
cspB
, Δ
cspD
, and the double Δ
cspB
Δ
cspD
mutants were constructed and characterized.
A. salmonicida
Δ
cspB
and Δ
cspB
Δ
cspD
mutants showed a faster growth at 28°C, and reduced virulence in lumpfish.
A. salmonicida
Δ
cspD
showed a slower growth at 28°C, biofilm formation, lower survival in low temperatures and freezing conditions (−20°C, 0°C, and 4°C), deficient in lipopolysaccharide synthesis, and low virulence in lumpfish. Additionally, Δ
cspB
Δ
cspD
mutants showed less survival in the presence of bile compared to the wild type. Transcriptome analysis revealed that 200, 37, and 921 genes were differentially expressed in Δ
cspB
, Δ
cspD
, and Δ
cspB
Δ
cspD,
respectively. In Δ
cspB
and Δ
cspB
Δ
cspD
virulence genes in the chromosome and virulence plasmid were downregulated. Our analysis indicates that CspB and CspD mostly act as a transcriptional activator, influencing cell division (e.g.,
treB
), virulence factors (e.g.,
aexT
), and ultimately virulence.
Nucleoid-associated proteins shape the global protein occupancy and transcriptional landscape of a clinical isolate of
Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Rakibova Yulduz , Dunham Drew T. , Seed Kimberley D. , Freddolino Lydia
Published: June 2024

Vibrio cholerae,
the causative agent of the diarrheal disease cholera, poses an ongoing health threat due to its wide repertoire of horizontally acquired elements (HAEs) and virulence factors. New clinical isolates of the bacterium with improved fitness abilities, often associated with HAEs, frequently emerge. The appropriate control and expression of such genetic elements is critical for the bacteria to thrive in the different environmental niches they occupy. H-NS, the histone-like nucleoid structuring protein, is the best-studied xenogeneic silencer of HAEs in gamma-proteobacteria. Although H-NS and other highly abundant nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs) have been shown to play important roles in regulating HAEs and virulence in model bacteria, we still lack a comprehensive understanding of how different NAPs modulate transcription in
V. cholerae
. By obtaining genome-wide measurements of protein occupancy and active transcription in a clinical isolate of
V. cholerae,
harboring recently discovered HAEs encoding for phage defense systems, we show that a lack of H-NS causes a robust increase in the expression of genes found in many HAEs. We further found that TsrA, a protein with partial homology to H-NS, regulates virulence genes primarily through modulation of H-NS activity. We also identified few sites that are affected by TsrA independently of H-NS, suggesting TsrA may act with diverse regulatory mechanisms. Our results demonstrate how the combinatorial activity of NAPs is employed by a clinical isolate of an important pathogen to regulate recently discovered HAEs.

IMPORTANCE

New strains of the bacterial pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
, bearing novel horizontally acquired elements (HAEs), frequently emerge. HAEs provide beneficial traits to the bacterium, such as antibiotic resistance and defense against invading bacteriophages. Xenogeneic silencers are proteins that help bacteria harness new HAEs and silence those HAEs until they are needed. H-NS is the best-studied xenogeneic silencer; it is one of the nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs) in gamma-proteobacteria and is responsible for the proper regulation of HAEs within the bacterial transcriptional network. We studied the effects of H-NS and other NAPs on the HAEs of a clinical isolate of
V. cholerae
. Importantly, we found that H-NS partners with a small and poorly characterized protein, TsrA, to help domesticate new HAEs involved in bacterial survival and in causing disease. A proper understanding of the regulatory state in emerging isolates of
V. cholerae
will provide improved therapies against new isolates of the pathogen.
Stable flies are bona fide carriers of mastitis-associated bacteria
Authors: Sommer Andrew J. , Kettner Julia E. , Coon Kerri L.
Published: June 2024

Hematophagous
Stomoxys
(stable) fly populations in dairy barns are sustained by a constant availability of cattle hosts and manure, which serve as major reservoirs of both zoonotic and opportunistic bacterial pathogens. However, the composition of the
Stomoxys
fly microbiota, the mechanisms by which flies acquire their microbiome, and the ability of potentially pathogenic bacteria to colonize and persist in fly hosts remain to be investigated. Here, we longitudinally collected fly and manure samples from two connected dairy facilities. High throughput 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was then used to characterize and compare bacterial communities present on or within flies and in manure collected from the same facility, while culture-dependent methods were used to verify the viability of clinically relevant bacteria. Bacterial alpha diversity was overall higher in manure samples as compared to fly samples, with manure-associated bacterial communities being dominated by members of the Bacteroidales, Eubacteriales, and Oscillospirales. In contrast, flies harbored relatively low-complexity communities dominated by members of the Enterobacterales, Staphylococcales, and Lactobacillales. Clinically relevant bacterial strains, including
Escherichia
spp. and other taxa associated with mastitic cows housed in the same facilities, were detected in paired fly and manure samples but exhibited dramatically elevated abundances in fly samples as compared to manure samples. Viable colonies of
Escherichia
,
Klebsiella
, and
Staphylococcus
spp. were also readily isolated from fly samples, confirming that flies harbor culturable mastitis-associated bacteria. This study identifies biting flies as bona fide carriers of opportunistically pathogenic bacterial taxa on dairy farms.

IMPORTANCE

Disease prevention on dairy farms has significant implications for cattle health, food security, and zoonosis. Of particular importance is the control of bovine mastitis, which can be caused by diverse bacteria, including
Klebsiella
,
Escherichia coli
,
Streptococcus
, and
Staphylococcus
spp. Despite being one of the most significant and costly cattle diseases worldwide, the epidemiology of bovine mastitis is not well understood. This study provides parallel culture-independent and culture-dependent evidence to support the carriage of opportunistically pathogenic bacteria by
Stomoxys
flies on dairy farms. We further show that the fly microbiota is enriched in clinically relevant taxa—the vast majority of which can be traced to the manure habitats in which flies breed. Altogether, our results identify biting flies as underrecognized carriers of bacterial taxa associated with environmental bovine mastitis and other opportunistic infections in vertebrates and offer important insights into mechanisms of microbial acquisition by these and other medically important insects.