bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The logic behind entrustable professional activity frameworks: A scoping review of the literature
Authors: Hennus Marije P. , van Dam Marjel , Gauthier Stephen , Taylor David R. , ten Cate Olle
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Entrustable professional activities (EPAs), discrete profession‐specific tasks requiring integration of multiple competencies, are increasingly used to help define and inform curricula of specialty training programmes. Although guidelines exist to help guide the developmental process, deciding what logic to use to draft a preliminary EPA framework poses a crucial but often difficult first step. The logic of an EPA framework can be defined as the perspective used by its developers to break down the practice of a profession into units of professional work. This study aimed to map dominant logics and their rationales across postgraduate medical education and fellowship programmes.

Methods

A scoping review using systematic searches within five electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science) was performed. Dominant logics of included papers were identified using inductive coding and iterative analysis.

Results

In total, 42 studies were included. Most studies were conducted in the United States (n = 22; 52%), Canada (n = 6; 14%) and the Netherlands (n = 4; 10%). Across the reported range of specialties, family medicine (n = 4; 10%), internal medicine (n = 4; 10%), paediatrics (n = 3; 7%) and psychiatry (n = 3; 7%) were the most common. Three dominant logics could be identified, namely, ‘service provision’, ‘procedures’ and/or ‘disease or patient categories’. The majority of papers (n = 37; 88%) used two or more logics when developing EPA frameworks (median = 3, range = 1–4). Disease or patient groups and service provision were the most common logics used (39% and 37%, respectively).

Conclusions

Most programmes used a combination of logics when trying to capture the essential tasks of a profession in EPAs. For each of the three dominant logics, the authors arrived at a definition and identified benefits, limitations and examples. These findings may potentially inform best practice guidelines for EPA development.
Recruitment and retention of volunteer multiple mini interview interviewers: Understanding their motivations
Authors: Allen Louise M. , Palermo Claire , Hay Margaret
Published: April 2022

Background

Without volunteer interviewers, many universities would not be able to run multiple mini interviews (MMIs) due to the prohibitive cost of paying interviewers. Despite the opportunity cost borne by volunteers, many interviewers participate in multiple MMI sessions per year and volunteer year after year. There is surprisingly little research into what motivates interviewers to volunteer as MMI interviewers. This research aims to explore both what motivates individuals to volunteer to interview in MMIs for undergraduate medical selection and what adds and detracts value from their participation.

Methods

We applied a qualitative sequential two‐phase design consisting of open‐ended survey questions, followed by semi‐structured interviews to explore interviewers' motivators in more depth. The survey data on motivators and the six functions from the volunteer functions inventory (VFI) informed interview data collection and provided a lens through which to examine MMI interviewer motivations. Content analysis was used to analyse the survey data. Framework analysis was used to analyse the interview data.

Results

The survey was completed by 108 interviewers (50% response rate), and 19 semi‐structured interviews were conducted (54% response rate). From the content analysis, the time commitment of involvement was the biggest detractor identified by participants. Through the framework analysis, five overarching motivators were developed: (i) acting on values, (ii) gaining understanding, (iii) gaining personal satisfaction and gratification, (iv) shaping the future workforce and (v) having social interaction. These mirrored five of the six functions proposed in the VFI.

Conclusions

There are a range of motivating factors that influenced the participants' decision to volunteer as an interviewer for MMIs. Some motivations were for the benefit of others, some were self‐serving, and some a combination of both. Universities should utilise these motivating factors to aid in targeted recruitment of volunteer interviewers.
The role of the capability, opportunity, and motivation of firms for using human resource analytics to monitor employee performance: A multi‐level analysis of the organisational, market, and country context
Authors: Bechter Barbara , Brandl Bernd , Lehr Alex
Published: April 2022

The digitalisation of business processes has led to the availability of (big) data which increasingly allows firms to analyse their workforce using HR analytics. On the basis of a cross‐national multi‐level analysis and a data set that covers more than 20,000 firms in all member states of the European Union we investigate the reasons why some firms make use of human resource (HR) analytics to monitor employee performance while others refrain from doing so. We show that the use of HR analytics depends upon firm characteristics as well as contextual factors. In terms of firm characteristics, we find that firms require the structural and managerial capability to make use of HR analytics. For contextual factors, our findings show that some market factors motivate firms to make use of HR analytics while the institutional, that is, juridico‐political, and cultural environment in which firms are embedded influences firms' opportunities to use HR analytics.
Corporatization of public services
Authors: Andrews Rhys , Clifton Judith , Ferry Laurence
Published: April 2022

The corporatization of public services by moving services previously provided in‐house into various types of arms‐length corporate forms of organization is becoming an important trend at multiple levels of government. Although the use of such corporate forms to deliver public services is not a new phenomenon, evidence on the impact of corporatization on public services provision is only slowly emerging. In this symposium, we aim to advance our understanding of the theoretical and practical implications of corporatization through empirical analyses of its dynamics in a range of different settings. In this introductory article, we begin by explaining what is meant by the corporatization of public services and the different forms that it can take, before summarizing the existing evidence on the governance, accountability, and performance of corporatized public services. We then describe the articles included in the symposium and conclude by outlining a future research agenda for studying corporatization.
Expectation of others' cooperation, efficacy beliefs, and willingness to sacrifice personal interests for the environment
Authors: Doran Rouven , Hanss Daniel
Published: April 2022

This paper departs from the view that the social dilemma literature provides a useful framework to delineate possible barriers to the adoption of environmentally friendly lifestyles. One domain in which tensions between personal and collective interests might occur are travel decisions in the context of tourism, where it has been shown that even those people who are very committed to environmental practices at home tend to reduce respective commitments on vacation. Data from a cross‐sectional survey N = 771 were analyzed to investigate if the expectation that other tourists travel environmentally friendly can in part explain individual travel decisions with environmental implications. Results showed that this expectation of others' cooperation added explanatory value in willingness to sacrifice (personal interests) for the environment. Further analyses indicated that the relationship between expectation of others' cooperation and willingness to sacrifice for the environment is sequentially mediated by collective efficacy and self‐efficacy. We discuss implications for initiatives to gain a better understanding of travel decisions that can help limit environmentally harmful impacts.
Internalizing problems, externalizing problems, and prosocial behavior ‐ three dimensions of the strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ): A study among South African adolescents
Authors: Aarø Leif Edvard , Davids Eugene L. , Mathews Catherine , Wubs Annegreet Gera , Smith Otto R.F. , de Vries Petrus J.
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to examine the factor structure of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire Self‐Report version (SDQ‐S), its psychometric properties and measurement invariance by gender and language spoken at home, among secondary school students in Western Cape, South Africa. A sample of 3,542 adolescents in Grade 8 (Mean age = 13.7 years) completed the SDQ‐S in a three‐language questionnaire (Afrikaans, English and isiXhosa). The data were collected from 42 secondary schools in Cape Town, South Africa. Confirmatory factor analyses with the WLSMV estimator with adjustment for cluster effects (schools) were applied. The SDQ‐S was originally developed to cover five domains: four “difficulty” domains (hyperactivity/inattention, emotional, conduct, and peer) and one “strengths” domain (prosocial behavior). When the five factors were tested on the data for the current study, poor fit was obtained. After excluding four items, a three‐factor solution with no cross‐loadings and no correlated error terms obtained acceptable fit. The results are consistent with previous studies. Strong measurement invariance across genders and language spoken at home was confirmed. In studies of community samples, the use of the SDQ‐S scale as an instrument with a three‐factor dimension (internalizing, externalizing and prosocial) may be more appropriate than using the original five‐factor model.
Exploring the empirical connection between student, teacher, school, and district‐level variables on fifth grade students' mathematics achievement
Authors: Polly Drew , Wang Chaung , Petty Teresa , Binns Ian
Published: April 2022

This study used hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) to examine the relationship of student, teacher, school, and district‐level variables on students' mathematics achievement as measured on the Grade 5 end of year assessment in North Carolina. Analyses indicated that there were statistically significant relationships between gains in student achievement and students' gender and ethnicity, teachers' advanced degrees (e.g., Master's and Doctorate), teachers' years of experience, and National Board Certification status. In terms of school and district‐level variables, there were statistically significant relationships between students' mathematics achievement and the district's teachers' ratings of their job satisfaction as well as the district's percentages of teachers who had either graduate degrees and National Board Certification. Future research should examine the influence of these variables on mathematics achievement in other populations as well as tease out specific instructional practices in classrooms that may contribute to gains in student outcomes.
El valor de la vista sobre la ciudad: el caso los apartamentos en Envigado
Authors: Agudelo Torres Jorge Enrique , Ospina Espinoza Oscar Alonso , González Virviescas Erika Paola
Published: April 2022

El estudio del sector inmobiliario ha suscitado la atención de una gran cantidad de investigadores alrededor del mundo. A pesar de ello, en Colombia el impacto ha sido limitado, toda vez que la información de valores reales de venta de bienes inmuebles es bastante limitada en el país. En este artículo se emplearon modelos de regresión geográficamente ponderada, con el fin de analizar la influencia de la vista sobre la ciudad en las viviendas del municipio de Envigado, Colombia.   El principal hallazgo de este estudio radica en que en la medida en que un apartamento que tiene una vista sobre la ciudad tiende a venderse por unos valores superiores a aquellos que no la tienen, constituyéndose en una externalidad positiva
El concepto de “espacio público” en América Latina desde el campo bibliográfico
Authors: Jiménez Carmen Egea , Salamanca Ospina Leonardo , Egea Rodríguez Bernardina Carolina
Published: April 2022

El artículo analiza el concepto de espacio público en 228 artículos publicados en las dos primeras décadas del siglo XXI referidos a América Latina. Se atiende las categorías del concepto, los abordajes teóricos de interpretación, las dimensiones de análisis y ejes temáticos investigados. En el segundo aspecto se indaga en la bibliografía de los artículos para conocer hasta qué punto las lecturas previas determinan la forma de interpretar y abordar esta temática, donde aparecen cuatro perspectivas analíticas: lo público como producción política, la interacción social pública, el espacio público como poder y la crítica al capitalismo. Los resultados invitan a pensar que, más que enunciar el espacio público como un “concepto”, sería adecuado referirse a un “enfoque analítico de los espacios públicos” por las categorías que lo definen, la bibliografía usada —base teórica de los estudios— y las dimensiones de análisis constatadas que son las que caracterizan la investigación
Morphological System and Urban Settlements. Coimbra (Portugal): A City from the Roman Times to the Present
Authors: Rochette Cordeiro António Manuel
Published: April 2022

The vision of the 21st-century sustainable city unquestionably requires an interdisciplinary analysis in urbanism. The issues concerning physical support systems in land-use planning must be regarded as essential pieces in urban design and due to their weight in the environmental components of sustainable urbanism. On a time matrix that shows the pathways of change in the urban setting of Coimbra, and being aware of the integrated vision as the ultimate goal, we systematise the “morphological system” —geomorphology; lithology; tectonics; slopes; exposure— that conditioned the urban development (in harmony for centuries and disruptive in the last decades). The findings highlight a consistent path of deep change with a consistent path, with increasingly complex patterns, and limited dependence on the physical variables. The sustainability of space built in the past was transformed by the recent expansion of buildings on the slopes, consequently leading to natural risks and climate changes.
A Side Contact Model of Joint Considering the Horizontal Distance Distribution Between Asperities
Authors: Wang Shijun , Fan Lingsong , Wu Jingwei , Li Pengyang
Published: April 2022

A side contact model of joint is proposed, which considers the horizontal distance distribution and side contact between the asperities on the contact surfaces. The Leica DCM3D microscope is applied to collect the profile data of the grinding surfaces. After analyzing the profile data by the statistical method, it is found that the horizontal distance distributions between asperities on the contact surfaces show an approximate normal distribution. Based on the discovery, a contact model of joint considering the horizontal distance distribution and side contact between asperities is established by statistical theory. The simulation results of the model show that the dimensionless tangential contact stiffness of joint is always lower than that of the GZQ model under the condition of the same dimensionless average distance of contact surfaces and P/T. When the standard deviation of horizontal distance between asperities decreases, both the dimensionless tangential contact stiffness of joint and the dimensionless normal contact stiffness increase. The finite element analysis and the modal experiment based on the contact model are carried out. It is found that the first three modal frequencies and modal shapes obtained from finite element analysis are in good agreement with those from the modal experiment, and compared with the modal frequencies from experiment, the modal frequencies from finite element analysis based on the model proposed in this paper show less error than those of finite element analysis based on the GZQ model. Therefore, this model proposed in this paper can more accurately predict the dynamic characteristics of joint.
Neural Network Based Transfer Learning for Robot Path Generation
Authors: Tang Houcheng , Notash Leila
Published: April 2022

In this paper, an artificial neural network (ANN)-based transfer learning approach of inverse displacement analysis of robot manipulators is studied. ANNs with different structures are applied utilizing data from different end-effector paths of a manipulator for training purposes. Four transfer learning methods are proposed by applying pretrained initial parameters. Final training results of ANN with transfer learning are compared with those of ANN with random initialization. To investigate the rate of convergence of data fitting comprehensively, different values of performance targets are defined. The computing epochs and performance measures are compared. It is presented that, depending on the structure of ANN, the proposed transfer learning methods can accelerate the training process and achieve higher accuracy. Depending on the method, the transfer learning improves the performance differently.
Influence of Vane Trailing Edge Flow on the Formation of Cavity Cells and Rim Sealing
Authors: Monge-Concepción Iván , Siroka Shawn , Berdanier Reid A. , Barringer Michael D. , Thole Karen A. , Robak Christopher
Published: April 2022

Hot gas ingestion into the turbine rim seal cavity is an important concern for engine designers. To prevent ingestion, rim seals use high-pressure purge flow; however, the penalty is that excessive use of the purge flow decreases engine thermal efficiency. In this paper, a one-stage turbine operating at engine-representative conditions was used to study the effect of steady and time-resolved under-platform cavity temperatures and pressures across a range of coolant flowrates in the presence of vane trailing edge (VTE) flow. This study correlates time-resolved pressure with time-resolved temperature to identify primary frequencies driving ingestion. At certain flowrates, the time-resolved pressures are out of phase with the temperatures, indicating ingestion. Measurements from high-frequency response pressure sensors in the rim seal and vane platform were also used to determine rotational speed and quantity of large-scale structures (cells). In a parallel effort, a computational model using Unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) was applied to determine swirl ratio in the rim seal cavity and time-resolved rim sealing effectiveness. The experimental results confirm that at low purge flowrates, the VTE flow influences the unsteady flow field by decreasing pressure unsteadiness in the rim seal cavity. Results show an increase in purge flow increases the number of unsteady large-scale structures in the rim seal and decreases their rotational speed. However, VTE flow was shown to not significantly change the cell speed and count in the rim seal. Simulations point to the importance of the large-scale cell structures in influencing rim sealing unsteadiness, which is not captured in current rim sealing predictive models.
Numerical Simulation and Comparative Analysis of Three Boil-Off Gas Reliquefaction Systems
Authors: Yan Mingyue , Pan Zhen , Shang Liyan , Zhou Li , Yu Jingxian
Published: April 2022

In view of the problem that the boil-off gas (BOG) generated by small liquefied natural gas (LNG) ships affects the transportation safety, three BOG reliquefaction systems are improved, which are as follows: case 1: serial nitrogen expansion reliquefaction system (N2-BOG); case 2: single mixed refrigerant reliquefaction system (SMR-BOG); and case 3: propane precooled mixed refrigerant reliquefaction system (C3MR-BOG). The basic process is simulated in aspen plus and combined with the mathematical model built up in matlab where the three cycles are optimized with the specific power consumption (SPC) as the objective function. The results show that the SPC of three cases are 0.8021 kWh/kg (LNG), 0.4150 kWh/kg (LNG), and 0.5063 kWh/kg (LNG); the coefficient of performance (COP) of cases 1, 2, and 3 are 0.20, 0.39, and 0.30; the exergy efficiency of 36.56%, 70.66%, and 57.93% along with the total product cost of 89.00 $/h, 55.73 $/h, and 77.54 $/h are achieved in Cases 1–3, respectively. In addition, the overall exergy destruction of the cycles and each equipment are discussed, and the matching of the cold and heat sources of the multistream heat exchanger in the three systems is analyzed. In conclusion, under the condition that the BOG mass flowrate is 350 kg/h, the improved SMR-BOG has advantages on thermodynamic performance and economic analysis, which makes it a better choice.
Cavitation Characterization of Fluid Machinery Based on Cyclostationary Analysis: Part 1—Cavity Type Identification by Carrier Distribution
Authors: Wu Kelin , Wu Chengshuo , Wu Peng , Cao Linlin , Ye Haojie , Wu Dazhuan , Antoni Jérôme
Published: April 2022

The state characterization of cavitation is significant not only for preventing catastrophic faults in industrial applications but also for keeping equipment stealthiness for military purposes. Many works concerning mechanical diagnostics search for modulation frequencies. However, this diagnosis strategy has so far been hindered in cavitation detection of fluid machinery. This results from that the first-order and second-order cyclostationary noise in the monitoring signal likely have the same modulation frequencies as the cyclostationary components caused by cavitation. To deal with this dilemma, the present paper proposes a novel strategy—cavitation characterization by carrier distribution. First, a cyclostationary model of a single cavitating blade is established. On this basis, the mathematical connection between spectral correlation, carrier power spectral density, and modulation quantities is elaborated. Finally, attached cavity and unattached cavity are identified qualitatively from carrier distribution by combining cavitation mechanism. The first paper is also a prelude to the second paper where cavitation quantitative characterization is achieved by modulation intensity indicators.
Indistinguishable photons
Authors: Lal Nijil , Mishra Sarika , Singh R. P.
Published: April 2022

Quantum mechanics allows identical particles to lose their individuality completely and become truly indistinguishable. This property of indistinguishability gives rise to exclusive quantum phenomena such as two particle interference. Photon indistinguishability is crucial in realizing many quantum information protocols. This manuscript covers the concepts and applications related to indistinguishable photons.
Model-data comparison of sound propagation in a glacierized fjord with a simulated brash ice surface
Authors: Zeh Matthew C. , Ballard Megan S. , Glowacki Oskar , Deane Grant B. , Wilson Preston S.
Published: April 2022

Glacier ice loss impacts sound propagation within Arctic fjords. Regular calving events contribute to a collection of floating ice fragments, known as brash ice, at the ocean surface that obstruct the natural and anthropogenic acoustic signals, yet are difficult to characterize. Transmission loss measurements using a maximum length sequence (m-sequence) signal were conducted in September 2017 near Hansbreen glacier in Hornsund Fjord, Svalbard with dense brash ice present at the water surface. An acoustic model of the brash ice surface was inferred through consideration of the experimental geometry, arrival amplitude, and travel time difference between the direct and surface reflected arrivals from the source to two receivers. The inferred surface was then incorporated into a forward simulation of the environment using sound speed profiles measured during the experiment. BELLHOP ([Porter and Bucker (1987). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 82(4), 1349-1359],), a ray tracing code available in the Acoustics Toolbox (HLS Inc., San Diego, CA), was used to track the time difference of arrivals and amplitudes of the modeled direct and surface reflected rays. Comparisons between the measured and simulated results provide insight into the geometric shape and reflection characteristics of the brash ice surface within this and similar environments.
The influence of self-reported noise exposure on 2ƒ1-ƒ2 distortion product otoacoustic emission level, fine structure, and components in a normal-hearing population
Authors: Poling Gayla L. , Siegel Jonathan H. , Lee Jungwha , Dhar Sumitrajit
Published: April 2022

Distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) offer an outcome measure to consider for clinical detection and monitoring outer hair cell dysfunction as a result of noise exposure. This investigation detailed DPOAE characteristics and behavioral hearing thresholds up to 20 kHz to identify promising metrics for early detection of cochlear dysfunction. In a sample of normal-hearing individuals with and without self-reported noise exposure, the DPOAE and hearing threshold measures, as assessed by two questions, were examined. The effects on various auditory measures in individuals aged 10–65 years old with clinically normal/near-normal hearing through 4 kHz were evaluated. Individuals reporting occupational noise exposures (n = 84) and recreational noise exposures (n = 46) were compared to age-matched nonexposed individuals. The hearing thresholds and DPOAE level, fine structure, and component characteristics for the full frequency bandwidth were examined. The data suggest that the DPOAE levels measured using a range of stimulus levels hold clinical utility while fine structure characteristics offer limited use. Under carefully calibrated conditions, the extension to frequencies beyond 8 kHz in combination with various stimulus levels holds clinical utility. Moreover, this work supports the potential utility of the distortion product place component level for revealing differences in cochlear function due to self-reported, casual noise exposure that are not observable in behavioral hearing thresholds.
Using a boothless audiometer to estimate personal attenuation rating in a military hearing conservation clinic
Authors: Kulinski Devon , Brungart Douglas S.
Published: April 2022

Hearing protection device (HPD) fit-testing is considered “best practice” for hearing conservation programs in the military. Yet many hearing conservation personnel do not have access to dedicated fit-test equipment. In this study, estimates of personal attenuation rating (PAR) obtained with a boothless audiometer are compared to those obtained with a field-microphone in a real ear (F-MIRE) system. Results suggest that boothless audiometers can be used to make accurate PAR estimates. The ability to perform HPD fit-testing with multipurpose boothless audiometers has the potential to greatly expand the accessibility of earplug verification and ultimately to improve the effectiveness of hearing conservation programs.
Genetic estimates of correlation and causality between blood-based biomarkers and psychiatric disorders
Authors: Reay William R. , Kiltschewskij Dylan J. , Geaghan Michael P. , Atkins Joshua R. , Carr Vaughan J. , Green Melissa J. , Cairns Murray J.
Published: April 2022

There is a long-standing interest in exploring the relationship between blood-based biomarkers and psychiatric disorders, despite their causal role being difficult to resolve in observational studies. In this study, we leverage genome-wide association study data for a large panel of heritable serum biochemical traits to refine our understanding of causal effect in biochemical-psychiatric trait pairings. We observed widespread positive and negative genetic correlation between psychiatric disorders and biochemical traits. Causal inference was then implemented to distinguish causation from correlation, with strong evidence that C-reactive protein (CRP) exerts a causal effect on psychiatric disorders. Notably, CRP demonstrated both protective and risk-increasing effects on different disorders. Multivariable models that conditioned CRP effects on interleukin-6 signaling and body mass index supported that the CRP-schizophrenia relationship was not driven by these factors. Collectively, these data suggest that there are shared pathways that influence both biochemical traits and psychiatric illness.
Two-qubit silicon quantum processor with operation fidelity exceeding 99%
Authors: Mills Adam R. , Guinn Charles R. , Gullans Michael J. , Sigillito Anthony J. , Feldman Mayer M. , Nielsen Erik , Petta Jason R.
Published: April 2022

Silicon spin qubits satisfy the necessary criteria for quantum information processing. However, a demonstration of high-fidelity state preparation and readout combined with high-fidelity single- and two-qubit gates, all of which must be present for quantum error correction, has been lacking. We use a two-qubit Si/SiGe quantum processor to demonstrate state preparation and readout with fidelity greater than 97%, combined with both single- and two-qubit control fidelities exceeding 99%. The operation of the quantum processor is quantitatively characterized using gate set tomography and randomized benchmarking. Our results highlight the potential of silicon spin qubits to become a dominant technology in the development of intermediate-scale quantum processors.
Mutation-guided therapeutics
Authors: Douglass Jacqueline
Published: April 2022

Development of bispecific antibodies to target mutant peptides in cancer
Type 2 immune polarization is associated with cardiopulmonary disease in preterm infants
Authors: Lao Jason C. , Bui Christine B. , Pang Merrin A. , Cho Steven X. , Rudloff Ina , Elgass Kirstin , Schröder Jan , Maksimenko Anton , Mangan Niamh E. , Starkey Malcolm R. , Skuza Elisabeth M. , Sun Yu B. Y. , Beker Friederike , Collins Clare L. , Kamlin Omar F. , König Kai , Malhotra Atul , Tan Kenneth , Theda Christiane , Young Morag J. , McLean Catriona A. , Wilson Nicholas J. , Sehgal Arvind , Hansbro Philip M. , Pearson James T. , Polo Jose M. , Veldman Alex , Berger Philip J. , Nold-Petry Claudia A. , Nold Marcel F.
Published: April 2022

Postnatal maturation of the immune system is poorly understood, as is its impact on illnesses afflicting term or preterm infants, such as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and BPD-associated pulmonary hypertension. These are both cardiopulmonary inflammatory diseases that cause substantial mortality and morbidity with high treatment costs. Here, we characterized blood samples collected from 51 preterm infants longitudinally at five time points, 20 healthy term infants at birth and age 3 to 16 weeks, and 5 healthy adults. We observed strong associations between type 2 immune polarization in circulating CD3
+
CD4
+
T cells and cardiopulmonary illness, with odds ratios up to 24. Maternal magnesium sulfate therapy, delayed hepatitis B vaccination, and increasing fetal, but not maternal, chorioamnionitis severity were associated with attenuated type 2 polarization. Blocking type 2 mediators such as interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, IL-13, or signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) in murine neonatal cardiopulmonary disease in vivo prevented changes in cell type composition, increases in IL-1β and IL-13, and losses of pulmonary capillaries, but not gains in larger vessels. Thereby, type 2 blockade ameliorated lung inflammation, protected alveolar and vascular integrity, and confirmed the pathological impact of type 2 cytokines and STAT6. In-depth flow cytometry and single-cell transcriptomics of mouse lungs further revealed complex associations between immune polarization and cardiopulmonary disease. Thus, this work advances knowledge on developmental immunology and its impact on early life disease and identifies multiple therapeutic approaches that may relieve inflammation-driven suffering in the youngest patients.
The purinergic P2Y14 receptor links hepatocyte death to hepatic stellate cell activation and fibrogenesis in the liver
Authors: Mederacke Ingmar , Filliol Aveline , Affo Silvia , Nair Ajay , Hernandez Celine , Sun Qiuyan , Hamberger Florian , Brundu Francesco , Chen Yu , Ravichandra Aashreya , Huebener Peter , Anke Helena , Shi Hongxue , Martínez García de la Torre Raquel A. , Smith James R. , Henderson Neil C. , Vondran Florian W. R. , Rothlin Carla V. , Baehre Heike , Tabas Ira , Sancho-Bru Pau , Schwabe Robert F.
Published: April 2022

Fibrosis contributes to ~45% of deaths in western countries. In chronic liver disease, fibrosis is a major factor determining outcomes, but efficient antifibrotic therapies are lacking. Although platelet-derived growth factor and transforming growth factor–β constitute key fibrogenic mediators, they do not account for the well-established link between cell death and fibrosis in the liver. Here, we hypothesized that damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) may link epithelial cell death to fibrogenesis in the injured liver. DAMP receptor screening identified purinergic receptor P2Y14 among several candidates as highly enriched in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main fibrogenic cell type of the liver. Conversely, P2Y14 ligands uridine 5′-diphosphate (UDP)–glucose and UDP-galactose were enriched in hepatocytes and were released upon different modes of cell death. Accordingly, ligand-receptor interaction analysis that combined proteomic and single-cell RNA sequencing data revealed P2Y14 ligands and P2Y14 receptor as a link between dying cells and HSCs, respectively. Treatment with P2Y14 ligands or coculture with dying hepatocytes promoted HSC activation in a P2Y14-dependent manner. P2Y14 ligands activated extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) and Yes-associated protein (YAP) signaling in HSCs, resulting in ERK-dependent HSC activation. Global and HSC-selective P2Y14 deficiency attenuated liver fibrosis in multiple mouse models of liver injury. Functional expression of P2Y14 was confirmed in healthy and diseased human liver and human HSCs. In conclusion, P2Y14 ligands and their receptor constitute a profibrogenic DAMP pathway that directly links cell death to fibrogenesis.
Engineering Circularized mRNAs for the Production of Spider Silk Proteins
Authors: Liu Li , Wang Pengju , Zhao Dongdong , Zhu Li , Tang Jinlei , Leng Wenchuan , Su Junchang , Liu Yan , Bi Changhao , Zhang Xueli
Published: April 2022

Spider silk is a biomaterial with superior properties. However, its heterologous expression template is hard to construct.
Regional
Salmonella
Differences in United States Broiler Production from 2016 to 2020 and the Contribution of Multiserovar Populations to
Salmonella
Surveillance
Authors: Siceloff Amy T. , Waltman Doug , Shariat Nikki W.
Published: April 2022

Salmonella
is a leading cause of bacterial foodborne illness in the United States, with poultry as a significant
Salmonella
reservoir. We show the relative decrease in
Salmonella
over a 5-year period from 2016 to 2020 in processed chicken parts and highlight regional differences with respect to the prevalence of clinically important
Salmonella
serovars.
Differential Localization and Functional Specialization of
parS
Centromere-Like Sites in
repABC
Replicons of
Alphaproteobacteria
Authors: Czarnecki Jakub , Chapkauskaitse Elvira , Bos Julia , Sentkowska Dorota , Wawrzyniak Paweł , Wyszyńska Agnieszka , Szuplewska Magdalena , Bartosik Dariusz
Published: April 2022

The
repABC
replication/partitioning loci are widespread in extrachromosomal replicons of
Alphaproteobacteria
. They are evolutionarily diverse, subject to multi-layer self-regulation, and are responsible for the maintenance of different types of replicons, such as plasmids (e.g.,
Agrobacterium
pTi and pRi tumorigenic and rhizogenic plasmids), megaplasmids (e.g.,
Sinorhizobium
pSymA and pSymB) and essential chromids (e.g., secondary chromosomes of
Agrobacterium
,
Brucella
and
Rhodobacter
).
Molecular Characteristics of Antimicrobial Resistance and Virulence in Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains Isolated from Goose Farms in Hainan, China
Authors: Bai Shuancheng , Yu Yang , Kuang Xu , Li Xianan , Wang Minge , Sun Ruanyang , Sun Jian , Liu Yahong , Liao Xiaoping
Published: April 2022

CRKP is one of the most important pathogens, which can cause infection not only in humans but also in waterfowl. The discovery of
bla
NDM-5
-producing
K. pneumoniae
in waterfowl farms in recent years suggests that waterfowl are an important reservoir for
bla
NDM-5
-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
.
Saving Time in Blood Culture Diagnostics: a Prospective Evaluation of the Qvella FAST-PBC Prep Application on the Fast System
Authors: Grinberg Semjon , Schubert Susanne , Hochauf-Stange Kristina , Dalpke Alexander H. , Narvaez Encalada Marco
Published: April 2022

Time to results for identification (ID) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) from blood cultures is an important factor impacting outcome in sepsis. In this study we evaluated a novel device, the FAST™ system from Qvella that concentrates microbial biomass from positive blood culture flasks with the FAST-PBC Prep™ cartridge thereby producing a liquid colony™ (LC), which can be used immediately in standard laboratory downstream applications.
Design, Discover, and Decipher: Student-Developed Escape Rooms in the Virtual Ecology Classroom
Authors: Heim Ashley B. , Duke Jessica , Holt Emily A.
Published: April 2022

There has always been a need for engaging assessments in online learning environments, though the COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized this need. Instructors across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines have begun to implement escape room activities as effective and engaging learning tools in their classrooms.
Eight Recommendations to Promote Effective Study Habits for Biology Students Enrolled in Online Courses
Authors: Ewell Sharday N. , Cotner Sehoya , Drake Abby Grace , Fagbodun Sheritta , Google Angela , Robinson Lecia , Soneral Paula , Ballen Cissy J.
Published: April 2022

To achieve meaningful learning experiences in online classrooms, students must become self-regulated learners through the development of effective study habits. Currently, there is no set of recommendations to promote study habits in online biology learning environments.
CRISPR-Cas9 Targeting of Hepatitis B Virus Covalently Closed Circular DNA Generates Transcriptionally Active Episomal Variants
Authors: Martinez Maria Guadalupe , Combe Emmanuel , Inchauspe Aurore , Mangeot Philippe Emmanuel , Delberghe Elodie , Chapus Fleur , Neveu Gregory , Alam Antoine , Carter Kara , Testoni Barbara , Zoulim Fabien
Published: April 2022

Hepatitis B virus infection can develop into chronic infection, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Treatment of chronic hepatitis B requires novel approaches to directly target the viral minichromosome, which is responsible for the persistence of the disease.
Draft Genome Sequence of Microaerobacter geothermalis Nad S1
T
, a Microaerophilic Bacterium Isolated from Tenusia Hot Spring
Authors: Goh Kian Mau , Liew Kok Jun , Shahar Saleha , Zakaria Iffah Izzati , Kahar Ummirul Mukminin
Published: April 2022

Microaerobacter geothermalis
Nad S1
T
is a rare
Bacillaceae
thermophile that grows optimally at 55°C and circumneutral pH. Although strain Nad S1
T
was discovered >10 years ago, its genome is yet to be described. The release of the Nad S1
T
genome sequence serves as reference genetic information for subsequent use.
Absolute Proteome Quantification in the Gas-Fermenting Acetogen
Clostridium autoethanogenum
Authors: Valgepea Kaspar , Talbo Gert , Takemori Nobuaki , Takemori Ayako , Ludwig Christina , Mahamkali Vishnuvardhan , Mueller Alexander P. , Tappel Ryan , Köpke Michael , Simpson Séan Dennis , Nielsen Lars Keld , Marcellin Esteban
Published: April 2022

Acetogen bacteria are important for maintaining biosustainability as they can recycle gaseous C
1
waste feedstocks (e.g., industrial waste gases and syngas from gasified biomass or municipal solid waste) into fuels and chemicals. Notably, the acetogen
Clostridium autoethanogenum
is being used as a cell factory in industrial-scale gas fermentation.
Real-Life Feasibility of HIV Drug Resistance Testing Using Dried Filter Analytes in Kenyan Children and Adolescents Living with HIV
Authors: Manne Akarsh , DeLong Alexander , Nyandiko Winstone , DeLong Allison K. , Vreeman Rachel , Novitsky Vladimir , Ngeresa Anthony , Sang Edwin , Chory Ashley , Aluoch Josephine , Jepkemboi Eslyne , Orido Millicent , Ashimosi Celestine , Sang Festus , Hogan Joseph W. , Kantor Rami ,   for the RESPECT (Resistance in a Pediatric Cohort) Study
Published: April 2022

In this manuscript we use dried filter analytes shipped from Kenya to the US in real time, to demonstrate the real-life feasibility of conducting HIV drug resistance testing in a vulnerable population of young children and adolescents with HIV in a resource limited setting. Such testing, which is recommended in resource-rich settings, is unavailable in most resource limited settings for individual clinical care.
Multilevel determinants of community health workers for an effective maternal and child health programme in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Gebremeskel Akalewold T , Omonaiye Olumuyiwa , Yaya Sanni
Published: April 2022

Background

Countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) continue to have the highest maternal and under-five child deaths in the world. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is amplifying the problems and overwhelming already fragile health systems. Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly being acknowledged as crucial members of the healthcare workforce in improving maternal and child health (MCH). However, evidence is limited on multilevel determinants of an effective CHWs programme using CHWs’ perspective. The objective of this systematic review is to examine perceived barriers to and enablers of different levels of the determinants of the CHWs’ engagement to enhance MCH equity and a resilient community health system in SSA.

Methods

We systematically conducted a literature search from inception in MEDLINE complete, EMBASE, CINAHL complete and Global Health for relevant studies. Qualitative studies that presented information on perceived barriers to and facilitators of effectiveness of CHWs in SSA were eligible for inclusion. Quality appraisal was conducted according to the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme qualitative study checklist. We used a framework analysis to identify key findings.

Findings

From the database search, 1561 articles were identified. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final review. Using socio-ecological framework, we identified the determinants of CHWs’ effectiveness at 4 levels: individual/CHWs, interpersonal, community and health system logistics. Under each level, we identified themes of perceived barriers such as competency gaps, lack of collaboration, fragmentation of empowerment programmes. In terms of facilitators, we identified themes such as CHW empowerment, interpersonal effectiveness, community trust, integration of CHWs into health systems and technology.

Conclusion

Evidence from this review revealed that effectiveness of CHW/MCH programme is determined by multilevel contextual factors. The socio-ecological framework can provide a lens of understanding diverse context that impedes or enhances CHWs’ engagement and effectiveness at different levels. Hence, there is a need for health programme policy makers and practitioners to adopt a multilevel CHW/MCH programme guided by the socio-ecological framework to transform CHW programmes. The framework can help to address the barriers and scale up the facilitators to ensuring MCH equity and a resilient community health system in SSA.
Quality of newborn healthcare in the first week of life in Brazil’s primary care network: a cross-sectional multilevel analysis of the National Programme for Improving Primary Care Access and Quality – PMAQ
Authors: Flores-Quispe Maria del Pilar , Duro Suele Manjourany Silva , Blumenberg Cauane , Facchini Luiz , Zibel Alexsandro Behrens , Tomasi Elaine
Published: April 2022

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of good quality child care in the first week of life in primary care services in Brazil and identify associated factors related to maternal, primary healthcare (PHC) facility and municipality characteristics.

Setting

Brazilian PHC.

Participants

6715 users of PHC facilities aged over 18 years with children under 2 years of age.

Primary outcome

The good quality child care was defined when the following health interventions were performed during postnatal check-up in the first week of life: the child was weighed and measured; the healthcare professional observed breastfeeding techniques and offered counselling on the safest sleeping position; the umbilical cord was examined and the heel prick test was performed.

Results

The prevalence of good quality care was 52.6% (95% CI 51.4% to 53.8%). Observation of breastfeeding techniques (75.9%) and counselling on the safest sleeping position (72.3%) were the activities least performed. Babies born to mothers who received a home visit from a community health worker and made a postpartum visit were twice as likely to receive good quality care (OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.70 to 2.24 and OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.74 to 2.24, respectively).

Conclusions

The information reported by the mothers related to Family Health team work processes was associated with good quality care in the first week of life. Supporting strategies that strengthen health team active search and timely screening actions could promote adequate early childhood development.
Effect of intermittent fasting after ST-elevation myocardial infarction on left ventricular function: study protocol of a pilot randomised controlled trial (INTERFAST-MI)
Authors: Dutzmann Jochen , Knöpp Kai , Kefalianakis Zoe , Daniel Jan-Marcus , Gufler Hubert , Wohlgemuth Walter , Kahles Florian , Sedding Daniel G
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Preclinical studies consistently show robust disease-modifying effects of intermittent fasting in animal models of cardiovascular disease. However, the impact of intermittent fasting on cardiovascular endpoints after myocardial infarction has not been investigated in a clinical trial so far.

Methods and analysis

The INTERmittent FASTing after Myocardial Infarction (INTERFAST-MI) trial is a monocentric prospective randomised controlled non-confirmatory pilot study including 48 patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. They will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to either intermittent fasting (daily time-restricted eating; consuming food for not more than 8 hours/day, fasting for at least 16 hours/day) or to a control group without a particular diet. The follow-up time is 6 months. The prespecified primary outcome is change in left ventricular systolic function at 4 weeks from baseline to estimate effect size required to establishing sample size and power calculation for a future full-scale trial. Secondary outcomes include protocol adherence, recruitment, major adverse cardiac events, revascularisation, changes in left ventricular systolic function at 3 and 6 months, patient weight, blood pressure, and serum markers of inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Enrolment began on 1 November 2020 and is expected to conclude in December 2021.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial has received ethics approval from the Medical Ethics Committee of the Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg. Results of the study will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

DRKS00021784.