bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unaccusative verbs in Modern Standard Arabic
Authors: Alonini Thana Mahmood
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this research was to analyze the unaccusative verb in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) within the framework of MP in order to answer the research question: How does the single argument of an unaccusative verb, that carries the theme theta role and is generated in the object position, receive a nominative case without moving to the [Spec, vP], which is the base subject position?

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis in the paper was based on the framework of Minimalist Program (MP) which was proposed by Chomsky (2000). MP concerns economy, simplicity and efficiency in the connection between sound and meaning. Essentially, Chomsky (2000) proposes that faculty of language (FL) contains a computational system that interfaces with external systems, sensorimotor systems and systems of thought. The computational system is based on three operations. The first operation is merge, which combines two syntactic objects to form a new one. It is presented in binary branches that project a hierarchical level. The second operation is agree which establishes syntactic relation for case assignment and agreement. The final operation is move, which composes merge and agree.

Findings

The analysis demonstrated that the sole argument of an accusative verb receives the nominative case in situ. This is due to Locality of Matching in which the agreement holds between the [nom] case on T and NP in internal argument of VP. This is because there is no intervening NP between T and the sole argument in internal argument of VP, which is a base object position.

Originality/value

This research shows that the single argument of the unaccusative verb receives the nominative case in situ. This analysis observes the economic considerations of MP as well as respects the UTAH hypothesis, which rules out the structures where the theme asymmetrically appears as a specifier or a complement.
The potential and applicability of infrared spectroscopic methods for the rapid screening and routine analysis of mycotoxins in food crops
Authors: Freitag Stephan , Sulyok Michael , Logan Natasha , Elliott Christopher T. , Krska Rudolf
Published: October 2022

Infrared (IR) spectroscopy is increasingly being used to analyze food crops for quality and safety purposes in a rapid, nondestructive, and eco‐friendly manner. The lack of sensitivity and the overlapping absorption characteristics of major sample matrix components, however, often prevent the direct determination of food contaminants at trace levels. By measuring fungal‐induced matrix changes with near IR and mid IR spectroscopy as well as hyperspectral imaging, the indirect determination of mycotoxins in food crops has been realized. Recent studies underline that such IR spectroscopic platforms have great potential for the rapid analysis of mycotoxins along the food and feed supply chain. However, there are no published reports on the validation of IR methods according to official regulations, and those publications that demonstrate their applicability in a routine analytical set‐up are scarce. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to discuss the current state‐of‐the‐art and the potential of IR spectroscopic methods for the rapid determination of mycotoxins in food crops. The study critically reflects on the applicability and limitations of IR spectroscopy in routine analysis and provides guidance to non‐spectroscopists from the food and feed sector considering implementation of IR spectroscopy for rapid mycotoxin screening. Finally, an outlook on trends, possible fields of applications, and different ways of implementation in the food and feed safety area are discussed.
Effects of soil humidity on respiration and frost resistance during winter diapause in the pine beauty moth, Panolis flammea
Authors: Musiolek David , Holuša Jaroslav , Pyszko Petr , Schopf Axel
Published: October 2022

Panolis flammea is an important pest whose populations intermittently outbreak in Europe. The species overwinters as pharate moths in the pupal stage in soil.

Details on the metabolic activity and cold hardiness of P. flammea during the overwintering period have not been published. Therefore, we assessed O2 consumption and the supercooling point (SCP) of P. flammea in late November, mid‐February, and mid‐March and the influence of soil humidity under fluctuating temperatures and with brief exposures to two increased temperature regimes (10 and 20°C).

The respiration pattern indicated diapause termination in mid‐February. A threshold of 0.169 μl O2 h−1 mg−1 fresh weight indicated potentially activated pre‐emerging moths. Drought increased respiration rates.

The SCP was lowest in mid‐February (−22.2°C) and was negatively correlated with pupal mass. The frost tolerance tended to increase with low substrate humidity, especially at the end of the overwintering period.

Our results indicate that P. flammea requires more energy during dry and mild winters than in wet and cold winters. Winter diapause termination and post‐diapause development may therefore be accelerated as environmental warming and drought increase.
The effect of paternal and maternal factors on the prognosis of live birth in couples with recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Peuranpää Pirkko‐Liisa , Gissler Mika , Peltopuro Paula , Tiitinen Aila , Hautamäki Hanna
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Currently, recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) examinations focus on the woman, although paternal factors are also involved. Men in couples with RPL have higher sperm DNA fragmentation levels than fertile men, but the effect of sperm DNA damage on couple's later prognosis is unknown. Advanced maternal age and obesity are associated with RPL, but paternal lifestyle factors are less studied. Therefore, we aimed to study the associations of couples' lifestyle factors, causes of RPL, and sperm DNA fragmentation with their prognosis of future live birth.

Material and methods

This descriptive cohort study comprised 506 couples investigated for RPL at Helsinki University Hospital, Finland, between 2007 and 2016, linked with national health and population registers. The primary outcome was couple's live birth after RPL investigations. Data on couple's background factors, including age, body mass index, smoking, and alcohol use, were collected from medical records. Sperm DNA fragmentation index was analyzed from 211 men using the sperm chromatin dispersion test. The associations between background factors, sperm DNA fragmentation, and cumulative probability of live birth over time were analyzed using cross‐tabulations and age‐adjusted Cox regression.

Results

In all, 352 of 506 couples (69.6%) achieved live birth. Maternal age, unexplained RPL, prolonged pregnancy attempts before investigations, paternal obesity, and maternal smoking were associated with prognosis: unadjusted hazard ratio for couple's live birth for women aged 35–39 vs younger than 30 years was 0.63 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.47–0.84), and for 40 years or older was 0.36 (95% CI 0.22–0.58). Age‐adjusted hazard ratio for unexplained vs explained RPL was 1.39 (95% CI 1.12–1.72), for couple's pregnancy attempt at least 4 years vs less than 2 years was 0.50 (95% CI 0.33–0.76), for paternal body mass index at least 30 kg/m2 vs less than 25 kg/m2 was 0.67 (95% CI 0.46–0.98), and for maternal smoking was 0.71 (95% CI 0.51–0.99). Altogether, 96/135 (71.1%) couples with normal (<15%), 38/60 (63.3%) with intermediate (15–30%), and 11/16 (68.8%) with high sperm DNA fragmentation index achieved live birth (p = 0.56).

Conclusions

In couples with RPL, prolonged pregnancy attempts, a cause found in RPL examinations, lifestyle factors, and maternal age are negatively associated with their prognosis of future live birth. Sperm DNA fragmentation was not associated, but the number of men with damaged spermatozoa was small. We suggest that clinicians include women and men in RPL counseling because couple's joint lifestyle seems to determine their later prognosis.
Effect of oral zoledronate administration on bone turnover in older women
Authors: Reid Ian R. , Wen Jingyuan , Mellar Anna , Liu Mengyang , Jabr Amani , Horne Anne M.
Published: October 2022

Aim

The aim of this work is to assess the safety and efficacy of two oral zoledronate preparations by determining their effects on bone resorption in healthy postmenopausal women.

Methods

The preparations studied were zoledronic acid in enteric‐coated capsules or a microparticle preparation of zoledronic acid in these capsules. Bone resorption was measured as β‐C‐telopeptideof type I collagen (CTX) in fasting serum. Separate cohorts, each of five women, were recruited and allocated in sequence to single doses of 20 mg, 40 mg, or 60 mg of oral zoledronate.

Results

Zoledronate 20 mg enteric capsules were well tolerated, reduced serum CTX by a median 51% at 1 week, but by only 17% at 1 month. Doses of 40 or 60 mg of this preparation produced APR and/or gastrointestinal symptoms in more than half of participants. With these doses, median CTX reduction at 1 week was >80%, ~70% at 1 month, but only ~30% at 6 months. Enteric capsules containing microparticles of zoledronate 20 mg reduced CTX by a median 53% at 1 week, with offset over 3 months. Two or three of these capsules dosed weekly reduced CTX by ~50% at 1 month, and by ~30% at 3 and 6 months.

Conclusions

Oral zoledronate 20 mg circumvents the problem of APR symptoms but, even with multiple doses, the anti‐resorptive effect is smaller and less sustained than with intravenous zoledronate. Probably a viable oral regimen of zoledronate dosing at intervals of weeks to months could be developed, but the advantage of infrequent dosing would be lost.
Christy Brown's ‘My Left Foot’: An insider's insights into growing up with cerebral palsy
Authors: Rosenbaum Peter L.
Published: October 2022

Importance

The field of childhood disability has undergone a sea‐change in the past two decades. Remarkably, 70 years ago, the ideas now taking root were expressed with poignant clarity by Ireland's Christy Brown, providing lessons that were there to be learned, illustrating why ‘My Left Foot’ remains a singular contribution to the literature about child development and disability.

Objective of this essay

The World Health Organization's 2001 reconsideration of ‘disability’ (the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health or ICF) has spawned considerable uptake and adaptation of contemporary concepts, notably with the ‘F‐Words for Childhood Disability’ (now the ‘F‐words for Child Development’). Published in 1954, Christy Brown's ground‐breaking poetic autobiography ‘My Left Foot’ resonates today with messages that bring the ICF to life vividly and memorably.

Review

The author, a developmental paediatrician, has refracted the themes of ‘My Left Foot’ through an ICF lens to illustrate that concepts now considered modern have long been in plain sight, but sadly ignored. Christy Brown's first‐person narrative animates ideas and messages for all who work in the field of childhood disability.

Findings

This essay is a personal reflection that draws together both contemporary 21st century concepts and ideas from the time that Christy Brown was a young author reporting his perspectives and perceptions on living with ‘disability’.

Conclusions and Relevance

The lessons Christy Brown generously shared 70 years ago should be heeded today. In the context of modern thinking and action regarding ‘childhood disability’, we need an approach to all we do that sees and respects children with ‘disabilities’ as whole people, that situates them in the context of family and community, that identifies and promotes their strengths and aspirations within both the health professional community and the community at large and enables them to ‘become’ and to ‘belong’.
Testing the assumption of environmental equilibrium in an invasive plant species over a 130 year history
Authors: Foster Sharla L. , Kharouba Heather M. , Smith Tyler W.
Published: October 2022

Invasive plants are an increasing threat to global biodiversity. Effective management depends on accurate predictions of their spread. However, modelling the geographic distribution of invasive species, particularly with correlative species distribution models (SDMs), is challenging. SDMs assume that species are in equilibrium with their environment (i.e. they occur in all suitable environments); this assumption is likely to be violated for a species that is actively invading new environments. This assumption is rarely assessed, and when violated can have consequences for model reliability. Using the invasive vineVincetoxicum rossicum, we tested the hypotheses that: 1) invasive species' distribution in environmental and geographic space increase to a plateau over time; 2) this plateau is a useful proxy for equilibrium distribution, a key assumption underlying SDMs. We compareV. rossicum's expansion in environmental and geographic space between historical and current time periods and infer equilibrium when its distribution has remained stable for an extended period. We also compare the performance of SDMs from historical time periods in predicting the current geographic distribution ofV. rossicum. We found thatV. rossicumhas reached equilibrium in environmental space, but is still expanding its geographic distribution. SDM performance was poor in the first 30 years following introduction, but improved asV. rossicumapproached environmental equilibrium. Our findings demonstrate the power of including temporal dynamics and the need to consider environmental and geographic equilibrium separately when modelling the distribution of invasive species. In light of our findings, we address shortcomings of the current approach to defining an equilibrium distribution and present a new perspective for reconciling the potentially confounding influence of dispersal limitation when assessing equilibrium distribution.
Serum neurofilament‐light and glial fibrillary acidic protein levels in hydroxychloroquine‐treated primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Camara‐Lemarroy Carlos , Silva Claudia , Gohill Jit , Yong V. Wee , Koch Marcus
Published: October 2022

Background

In a recent trial, hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) treatment reduced the expected rate of disability worsening at 18 months in primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS). Neurofilament light chain (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) are emerging biomarkers in multiple sclerosis.

Methods

We measured NfL and GFAP levels in serum samples from 39 patients with inactive PPMS included in a phase II clinical trial of HCQ treatment in PPMS at multiple time points over 18 months, and investigated the association of these biomarkers with clinical disability at screening and during follow‐up. Screening and 12‐month retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was also recorded and analyzed.

Results

NfL and GFAP levels increased over time, but only significantly from screening to month 6. NfL and GFAP levels did not significantly increase from month 6 up to month 18. At screening, NfL and GFAP levels did not correlate with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and GFAP but not NfL modestly correlated with Timed 25‐Foot Walk test (T25FW). Screening NfL and GFAP levels did not predict disability worsening (≥20% worsening on the T25FW) at month 18. RNFL thickness decreased significantly from screening to month 12 and independently predicted disability worsening.

Conclusions

In this cohort of people with inactive PPMS, HCQ treatment attenuated the increase of NfL and GFAP after 6 months of treatment and up to 18 months of follow‐up, suggesting a treatment effect of HCQ over these biomarkers. RNFL thickness, a marker of neuroaxonal atrophy, was associated with disability worsening, and should be explored further as a prognostic marker in this population.
Lower hypothalamic volume with lower body mass index is associated with shorter survival in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Chang Jeryn , Shaw Thomas B. , Holdom Cory J. , McCombe Pamela A. , Henderson Robert D. , Fripp Jurgen , Barth Markus , Guo Christine C. , Ngo Shyuan T. , Steyn Frederik J. ,   For the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2022

Background and purpose

Weight loss in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is associated with faster disease progression and shorter survival. Decreased hypothalamic volume is proposed to contribute to weight loss due to loss of appetite and/or hypermetabolism. We aimed to investigate the relationship between hypothalamic volume and body mass index (BMI) in ALS and Alzheimer's disease (AD), and the associations of hypothalamic volume with weight loss, appetite, metabolism and survival in patients with ALS.

Methods

We compared hypothalamic volumes from magnetic resonance imaging scans with BMI for patients with ALS (n = 42), patients with AD (n = 167) and non‐neurodegenerative disease controls (n = 527). Hypothalamic volumes from patients with ALS were correlated with measures of appetite and metabolism, and change in anthropomorphic measures and disease outcomes.

Results

Lower hypothalamic volume was associated with lower and higher BMI in ALS (quadratic association; probability of direction = 0.96). This was not observed in AD patients or controls. Hypothalamic volume was not associated with loss of appetite (p = 0.58) or hypermetabolism (p = 0.49). Patients with lower BMI and lower hypothalamic volume tended to lose weight (p = 0.08) and fat mass (p = 0.06) over the course of their disease, and presented with an increased risk of earlier death (hazard ratio [HR] 3.16, p = 0.03). Lower hypothalamic volume alone trended for greater risk of earlier death (HR 2.61, p = 0.07).

Conclusion

These observations suggest that lower hypothalamic volume in ALS contributes to positive and negative energy balance, and  is not universally associated with loss of appetite or hypermetabolism. Critically, lower hypothalamic volume with lower BMI was associated with weight loss and earlier death.
Equine shock wave therapy ‐ where are we now?
Authors: Johnson Sherry A. , Richards Roderick B. , Frisbie David D. , Esselman Angie M. , McClure Scott R.
Published: October 2022

Over the past three decades, electrohydraulic extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) as a treatment modality for equine orthopaedic disorders has sparked exponential interest among practitioners, but its clinical applications are quickly evolving and a current review highlighting modernised equine clinical use is lacking. The objective of this review is to summarise the most current ESWT technology, evidence for its use, proposed mechanisms of action and clinical applications in horses while also highlighting the areas requiring further investigation. The three ways to generate a shock wave are through electrohydraulic, electromagnetic or piezoelectric mechanisms, but over the last decade, electrohydraulic systems have predominated due to the ability to focus and control a therapeutic waveform. Shock waves' primary physical effect is believed to be via mechanotransduction leading to cellular activation and downstream signalling. Experimentally, ESWT's effects on osseous, connective tissue and wound healing via various mechanisms of action have been reported both in the human and veterinary literature. Clinical trials have investigated ESWT's orthopaedic application including osteoarthritis, thoracolumbar pain, navicular syndrome, tendinopathy and proximal suspensory desmopathy, with its concomitant use with biologics representing an area of active research. Direct ESWT protocol comparisons in terms of long‐term efficacy with variables of energy, depth and exposed tissue types are still lacking with evidence‐based recommendations being largely anecdotal. Technical advancements to facilitate the safe and judicious use of ESWT include human and equine hearing protection, light sedation and/or patient restraint. Efforts to ensure the safe and judicious use of ESWT and its analgesic effects are ongoing.
Equine blood cultures: Can we do better?
Authors: Giancola Shyla , Hart Kelsey A.
Published: October 2022

Blood culture is considered the gold standard test for documenting bacteraemia in patients with suspected bacterial sepsis in veterinary and human medicine. However, blood culture often fails to yield bacterial growth even though the clinical picture is strongly suggestive of bacterial sepsis, or contaminating organisms can overgrow the true pathogen, making accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of this life‐threatening condition very challenging. Methodology for collecting blood cultures in equine medicine, and even in human hospitals, is not standardised, and many variables can affect the yield and type of microorganisms cultured. Microbiological culture techniques used in the laboratory and specific sample collection techniques, including volume of blood collected, aseptic technique utilised, and the site, timing and frequency of sample collection, all have substantial impact on the accuracy of blood culture results. In addition, patient‐specific factors such as husbandry factors, the anatomical site of the primary infection, and changing microflora in different geographic locations, also can impact blood cultures. Thus, blood cultures obtained in practice may not always accurately define the presence or absence of, or specific organisms causing, bacteraemia in horses and foals with suspected sepsis. Erroneous blood culture results can lead to inappropriate antimicrobial use, which can result in poor outcomes for individual patients and contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance in the patient's microflora and the environmental microcosm. This review summarises current indications and methodology, and specific factors that may be optimised, for equine blood culture, with particular focus on available literature from neonatal foals with suspected bacterial sepsis. To standardise and optimise blood culture techniques in horses and foals, future research in this area should be aimed at determining the optimal volume of blood that should be collected for culture, and the ideal site, timing, and frequency of sample collection.
Co‐production to understand online help‐seeking for young people experiencing emotional abuse and neglect: Building capabilities, adapting research methodology and evaluating involvement and impact
Authors: Bennett Vanessa , Gill Chloe , Miller Pam , Wood Asher , Bennett Cassia , YPAG NeurOX , Singh Ilina
Published: October 2022

Background

Involving young people (YP) as co‐researchers (YCoR) in mental health research is important for ethical and epistemological reasons. However, approaches to involve and evaluate ‘meaningful involvement’ in complex qualitative mental health research, and how to evaluate impacts (or change) for the co‐researcher and the research is less well defined.

Objectives

This co‐produced research explored the experiences of YP seeking help for emotional abuse and neglect via an online, peer‐peer message board. This practical case study aims to evidence the meaningful role and impacts associated with YCoR involvement in sensitive and complex mental health research using a flexible approach to co‐production.

Methods

During the Covid‐19 pandemic, we explored on‐ and off‐line approaches and adapted research methodology to build relationships, knowledge, skills, and confidence with YCoR. The virtual involvement was evaluated against the five principles of co‐production. Anonymous, continuous digital feedback, reflective practices and multiple dissemination outputs are used to evaluate the impact of the study on those involved and the research.

Results

Ten members of NeurOX Young People's Advisory Group were involved in the core project. Additional members were invited at later stages and in the dissemination of outputs. We describe a supportive, scaffolded learning approach to build capabilities and embed the lived experience of YCoR in complex qualitative research. A digital blended approach was acceptable to YCoR, principles of co‐production were met and the impact/benefits of involvement are described. To demonstrate the epistemological value of involving YP we evidence YPs capabilities for involvement and the ‘change’ or contribution YCoR made to the research through reflective practices.

Conclusions

This case study demonstrates how flexible approaches co‐production with YCoR can be robust and responsive to balance ethical and epistemological impact in complex mental health research. Supportive, scaffolded practices and safe environments helped build the confidence and capacity of YCoRs to demonstrate valuable phenomenological insights in the analysis. YP's perspectives on how they describe ‘meaningful’ and impactful involvement illustrate the reciprocal benefits gained through working together.

Public Contribution

This case study describes the YCoR involvement throughout the research and dissemination of outputs. YCoR co‐authors were involved in developing the outline and reviewing the draft stages of the manuscript.
Two‐wavelength excitation–driven robust operation of green up‐conversion emission in Er3+‐doped oxyfluoride glass–ceramic
Authors: Li Saihui , Tan Linling , Wang Weirong , Chen Zhi , Kang Shiliang , Gao Chengwei , Lin Changgui
Published: October 2022

Efficient optical modulation enables a significant improvement of optical conversion efficiency and regulation of optical response rate, showing great potential for optoelectronics applications. However, the weak interaction between photons poses a strong obstacle for manipulating photon–photon interactivity. Here, upon simultaneous excitation of 850 and 1550 nm, a fast–slow optical modulation of green up‐conversion (UC) luminescence in oxyfluoride glass ceramics containing NaYF4:Er3+ nanocrystals can be achieved. Compared with the sum of luminescence intensity excited by the two single‐wavelengths, green UC luminescence excited by simultaneous two‐wavelength presents an obvious increase by approximate six times. Interestingly, the response rate of green UC luminescence relies on the pump strategy of two‐wavelength excitation, showing as high as two times of the fast–slow response difference. The fast–slow optical modulation of green UC luminescence under two‐wavelength excitation is promising for emerging applications in all‐optical switching.
Randomized trial of microneedling combined with 2% minoxidil topical solution for the treatment of female pattern hair loss in a Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Yao , Sheng Youyu , Zeng Yibin , Hu Ruiming , Zhao Jun , Wang Wuqing , Yang Qinping
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2% minoxidil combined with microneedling in the treatment of female pattern hair loss.

Methods

Forty female patients with female pattern hair loss were randomly divided into two groups with 20 patients each. The control group was treated with 2% minoxidil. The combined treatment group was treated with weekly microneedling in addition to daily minoxidil. The treatment period of both groups was 24 weeks.

Results

There were no significant differences in age or duration of disease between the two groups of patients. The effective rate in the combined treatment group was 85%, which was significantly higher than that of the control group (45%). The hair counts were also higher in the combined treatment group. All of the adverse reactions observed during the treatment period were mild. No severe adverse event was observed in either group.

Conclusion

Microneedling combined with minoxidil had better efficacy for female pattern hair loss during the treatment period and follow‐up. Microneedling combined with minoxidil therapy was safe and effective.
COVID vaccine recommendations in dermatologic patients on immunosuppressive agents: Lessons learned from pandemic
Authors: Aryanian Zeinab , Balighi Kamran , Afshar Zeinab Mohseni , Zamanian Mohammad Hossein , Razavi Zahra , Hatami Parvaneh
Published: October 2022

Background

Since SARS‐CoV2 vaccines were approved without enough long‐term monitoring due to emergent situations, some issues have been raised about timing and protocol of receiving them by patients treated by different immunosuppressive agents.

Aim and Method

Here, we present different aspects of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination in such patients in the field of dermatology.

Result

In brief, SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination is recommended in all dermatologic patients, regardless of their disorders and therapeutic regimens. Nevertheless, special considerations should be given to the immunosuppressive therapy and its association with vaccination timing due to the decreased immunogenicity of vaccines in this setting.

Conclusion

Novel biologic immunotherapies are advantageous over conventional systemic therapies not only in their safety and selective functions but also in this aspect that many of them do not affect vaccines immunogenicity.
Relationships among insomnia, executive function, and suicidal ideation in depressed outpatients: A mediation analysis
Authors: McCall William V. , Ribbens Lucas T. , Looney Stephen W.
Published: October 2022

Insomnia is a risk factor for suicide, and both are associated with cognitive problems. However, prior research has not examined insomnia, cognition, and suicidal ideation within one sample. We describe cross‐sectional associations among insomnia, psychomotor speed, set shifting, and suicidal ideation in 85 depressed adults. Greater insomnia was associated with slower psychomotor speed, while slower psychomotor speed was associated with a greater level (i.e., elaboration of suicide planning) and intensity of suicidal ideation in the past week. Slower set shifting was associated with a greater level and intensity of suicidal ideation in the past week. Mediation analysis indicated that psychomotor speed and set shifting both had a significant total effect on the intensity of suicidal ideation in the past week; set shifting also had a significant total effect on the sum of intensity and suicidal ideation level in the past week. The level of insomnia explained only small percentages of the total effect of either psychomotor speed or set shifting on the intensity of suicidal ideation and the sum of intensity and suicidal ideation level. The findings in this sample demonstrate significant associations of slower psychomotor speed and set shifting with suicidal ideation, with negligible contribution from insomnia.
Direct material property determination: One‐dimensional formulation utilising full‐field deformation measurements
Authors: Rajan‐Kattil Sreehari , Sutton Michael A. , Sockalingam Subramani , Thomas Frank , Weerasooriya Tusit , Alexander Stephen
Published: October 2022

A direct approach is described to determine the elastic modulus distribution in a nominally heterogeneous material subject to tensile/compression loading and primarily experiencing deformations in the axial direction. The formulation is developed for uniaxial applications using basic theoretical constructs, resulting in a computational framework that has a matrix form [A] {E} = {R}, where the [A] matrix components are known functions of measured axial strains and axial positions, {R} components are known functions of axial body forces, applied loads and reactions and {E} components are the unknown elastic moduli at discrete locations along the length of the specimen. For a series of one‐dimensional (1D) material property identification procedure with known axial strains at discrete locations and various levels of random noise, results are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and noise sensitivity of the methodology. Finally, experimental measurements for a heterogeneous bone specimen are compared to our 1D model predictions, demonstrating that the predictions are in very good agreement with independent estimates at each load level of interest along the length of the bone specimen.
Developing agriculture resilience in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Muhan Qin
Published: October 2022

Sub‐Saharan Africa saw crucial growth in agriculture in the 21st century. However, the current rate of development, largely based on land expansion, appears to be reaching the limit of growth, calling for more productive and sustainable practices. To address productivity, underlying factors are discussed and a path towards agriculture resilience is suggested. This study linked unproductive agriculture with poor resilience, which tends to be the cause of low and unstable crop yields. Potential measures from technical and social perspectives are explored for developing resilience in agriculture in this region. Inexpensive and easily accessible technologies are in urgent need to improve land resilience, while policies stressing risk mitigation and inequality reduction are key to develop farmers' resilience. A development framework towards agriculture resilience is elaborated, which is hopeful of leading to a more productive, sustainable, stable and equally beneficial agricultural system in Sub‐Saharan African countries.
Temporal and spectral characteristics of conversational versus read fricatives in American English
Authors: Kharlamov Viktor , Brenner Daniel , Tucker Benjamin V.
Published: October 2022

The present study compares the production of fricatives in conversational versus read speech in American English. The goal is to examine which parameters contribute to the identification of fricatives across the two speech styles. The study surveys over 162 000 fricative tokens from the Buckeye Corpus [Pitt, Johnson, Hume, Kiesling, and Raymond (2005). Speech Commun. 45, 89–95] and the TIMIT Corpus [Zue and Seneff (1996). Recent Research towards Advanced Man-Machine Interface through Spoken Language (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), pp. 515–525]. A total of 18 different temporal and spectral measures are tested, including segment duration, preceding and following phone duration, spectral moments (at onset, midpoint, and/or offset), spectral peak frequency, etc. Results show that segment duration and midpoint spectral moments make the most prominent contribution to the categorization of fricatives for both speech styles. Spectral measures are more important for conversational speech, whereas duration plays a greater role for read speech. At the same time, the magnitude of the differences across speech styles is often low and many of the observed effects may be attributable to methodological differences across the corpora. Results may indicate that reduction of fricatives in conversational speech is more limited compared to the reduction of other types of speech sounds, such as plosives.
Content Analysis of Sport Management Graduate Degree Programs in the United States
Authors: Pierce David , Johnson James , Miller John , Downs Benjamin
Published: October 2022

Sport management is a rapidly changing and highly competitive field. With over 200 graduate and over 400 undergraduate degree programs in the United States, faculty are tasked with regular assessment of their program’s curriculum to ensure that students graduate with the knowledge, skills, values, and opportunities that make them marketable in a competitive marketplace. The purpose of this study was to describe and identify trends in the admission requirements, coursework, and culminating experiences for degree completion in sport management graduate programs in the United States. Content analysis was used to collect data from university websites and course catalogs on 230 sport management master’s degree programs. Minimum grade point average (GPA) standards were listed for 52% of programs, 44% required test scores for admission, and 28% did not require either a test score or GPA. Law, marketing, and research methods were the only three courses required by more than 70% of programs. At least one research-related course (research methods, statistics, or sports data analytics) was required by 78% of programs. One third of programs prescribed a specific course sequence to earn a graduate degree, while two thirds provided students with options on how the degree could be completed. Only 7% of programs required students to complete a thesis, and 27.8% required a comprehensive examination.
Two Additional Connections between the Transcriptional Programs Controlling Invasion and Intracellular Replication of Salmonella: HilD-SprB Positively Regulates
phoP
and
slyA
Authors: Banda María M. , Pérez-Morales Deyanira , Zavala-Alvarado Crispín , Nava-Galeana Jessica , Bustamante Víctor H.
Published: October 2022

Bacteria have developed diverse regulatory mechanisms to control genetic expression, in the case of pathogenic bacteria, to induce the expression of virulence genes in particular niches during host infection. In
Salmonella
, an intricate regulatory network has been determined, which controls the spatiotemporal expression of the SPI-1 and SPI-2 gene clusters that mediate the invasion to and the replication inside host cells, respectively.
Dissecting Naturally Arising Amino Acid Substitutions at Position L452 of SARS-CoV-2 Spike
Authors: Tan Toong Seng , Toyoda Mako , Ode Hirotaka , Barabona Godfrey , Hamana Hiroshi , Kitamatsu Mizuki , Kishi Hiroyuki , Motozono Chihiro , Iwatani Yasumasa , Ueno Takamasa
Published: October 2022

In a span of less than 3 years since the declaration of the coronavirus pandemic, numerous SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern have emerged all around the globe, fueling a surge in the number of cases and deaths that caused severe strain on the health care system. A major concern is whether viral evolution eventually promotes greater fitness advantages, transmissibility, and immune escape.
Complete Genome Sequences of
Microbacterium
Phages Clayda5 and Gshelby23 and
Gordonia
Phages Wrigley and Santhid
Authors: Bastian Abigail M. , Blankespoor Marcus J. , Fynaardt Gideon K. , Gilmeister Sadie A. , Hurley Emily E. , Jones Madison , McKenney Erika J. , Olguin Alexa N. , Rens Micah N. , Snyder Garrett , Sterk Anneka E. , Swart Sophie M. , Trevino Alaena , Van Egdom Ashley N. , Veach Morgan C. , Cullinan Kip , Van Berkum Kaarina , Pavich Lauren R. , Starr Krista , Noordewier Byron , Tolsma Sara S.
Published: October 2022

Bacteriophages Clayda5, Gshelby23, Wrigley, and Santhid were isolated from soil samples collected in Iowa, with genomes typical of actinobacteriophages from clusters EB, EM, CY, and DY, respectively. Wrigley and Santhid were isolated on
Gordonia terrae
and are likely to be temperate. Clayda5 and Gshelby23 were isolated on
Microbacterium foliorum
.
Screening of Spore-Forming Bacteria with Probiotic Potential in Pristine Algerian Caves
Authors: Rehamnia Baraa , Lee Natuschka M. , Kuktaite Ramune , Kacem Chaouche Noreddine
Published: October 2022

Previous microbial studies of subsurface ecosystems like caves focused mainly on the natural biodiversity in these systems. So far, only a few studies focused on the biotechnological potential of microbes in these systems, focusing in particular on their antibacterial potential, antibiotic production, and, to some extent, enzymatic potential.
Changes of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Community and Glomalin in the Rhizosphere along the Distribution Gradient of Zonal Stipa Populations across the Arid and Semiarid Steppe
Authors: Ma Xiaodan , Li Jingpeng , Ding Fucheng , Zheng Yaxin , Chao Lumeng , Liu Haijing , Liu Xinyan , Qu Hanting , Bao Yuying
Published: October 2022

This study fills a gap in our understanding of the soil arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community distribution, community composition changes, and diversity of
Stipa
species along different
Stipa
population substitution distributions and of their adaptive relationships; furthermore, the differences in the glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) contents in the rhizospheres of different
Stipa
species and GRSP’s contribution to the grassland organic carbon pool were investigated. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the protection and utilization of regional biodiversity resources and sustainable ecosystem development.
Stem-Loop I of the Tembusu Virus 3′-Untranslated Region Is Responsible for Viral Host-Specific Adaptation and the Pathogenicity of the Virus in Mice
Authors: Mao Li , He Yu , Wu Zhen , Wang Xiaoli , Guo Jiaqi , Zhang Senzhao , Wang Mingshu , Jia Renyong , Zhu Dekang , Liu Mafeng , Zhao Xinxin , Yang Qiao , Mao Sai , Wu Ying , Zhang Shaqiu , Huang Juan , Ou Xumin , Gao Qun , Sun Di , Cheng Anchun , Chen Shun
Published: October 2022

Mosquito-borne flaviviruses (MBFVs) constitute a large number of mosquito-transmitted viruses. The 3′-untranslated region (3′UTR) of MBFV has been suggested to be relevant to viral host-specific adaptation.
Structural Restoration of Cretaceous Inversion Events in the Bjørnøyrenna Fault Complex, Western Barents Shelf
Authors: Miraj M. A. F.
Published: October 2022

Inversion structures including folds, reverse faults are observed along the Bjørnøyrenna Fault Complex in the western Barents Sea, although the fault complex is extensional in origin and developed in mid-Jurassic to Early Cretaceous. Subsidence along the fault complex was interrupted in Early Cretaceous (Valanginian to early Barremian) because of syn-rift localized tectonic inversion, itself related to the uplift of the Loppa High. The Early Cretaceous inversion caused dextral transpression along the boundary faults adjacent to the Loppa High. The second phase of inversion is interpreted to be Late Cretaceous (mid-Cenomanian) in age, coeval to the deposition of the Kolmule Formation in the Bjørnøyrenna Fault Complex. The later phase of compression is of regional significance and related to NW‒SE directed far field stresses in Late Cretaceous which caused head-on inversion in the study area. The aim of present study is to identify and decipher eventual Cretaceous inversion structures in the Bjørnøyrenna Fault Complex by means of structural restoration. To these aims, 2D MOVETM, structural modeling and analysis software by Midland Valley Exploration Ltd (Glasgow, Scotland), is used and three key seismic lines crossing the central and northern segments of the Bjørnøyrenna Fault Complex are restored. Key profiles 1 and 2 reveal null point positions at the base of the Cretaceous (Hekkingen Formation). Null point positions show progressive compressional inversion of syn-rift Early Cretaceous deposits (Knurr Formation). Below and above null points the geometries of the restored faults show normal and reverse faulting respectively. The results of the restored key profiles 1 and 2 confirm reverse faulting at the Lower Cretaceous triggered by inversion of the study area. The restored sections also show positive inversion features associated with folding of the hanging wall of the base of the Upper Cretaceous (Kolmule Formation). The reconstruction of the amount of eroded material on the footwall block also suggests reverse faulting of the base of the Upper Cretaceous. In key profile 3 the footwall block is eroded up to the base of the Upper Cretaceous (Kolmule Formation) due to the uplift of the Loppa High. The corresponding restored section shows a compressional anticline associated with both Early and Late Cretaceous inversion events.
Usability of dual HIV/syphilis self-testing among men who have sex with men in China: study protocol for a three-arm randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Hong , Wang Min , Zhang Yun , Tan Sumin , Huang Haimei , Zhu Jiawen , Tian Weiyi , Mo Jinli , Mo Jieling , Cen Ping , Ning Chuanyi
Published: October 2022

Introduction

HIV self-testing (HIVST) provides a key measure for the early detection of HIV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). However, dual HIV/syphilis self-testing in the MSM population has not been studied. We describe a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effect of dual HIV/syphilis self-testing on the testing frequency among MSM in China.

Methods and analysis

This randomised controlled trial will be implemented in Guangxi, China. 330 MSM, including 255 frequent testers and 75 less frequent testers, will be recruited and randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio into one of three arms: a site-based testing arm, a single HIVST arm and a dual HIV/syphilis self-testing arm. Participants in the single HIVST arm and dual HIV/syphilis self-testing arm will receive two free finger-prick-based HIVST or HIV/syphilis self-testing kits at enrolment. The data will be collected at five separate times: baseline, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and 12 months. The primary outcome is the mean frequency of HIV testing used by MSM after intervention comparing each group during the study period. The secondary outcome includes changes in sex behaviours (eg, number of male sex partners and the proportion of consistent condom use) and the mean number of HIV tests used by the social network members over the study period.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was reviewed and approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Guangxi Medical University, China (20210173). The study results will be disseminated through conferences and academic journals.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100050898.
Early-onset burdensome multimorbidity: an exploratory analysis of sentinel conditions, condition accrual sequence and duration of three long-term conditions using the 1970 British Cohort Study
Authors: Stannard Sebastian , Holland Emilia , Crozier Sarah R , Hoyle Rebecca , Boniface Michael , Ahmed Mazen , McMahon James , Ware William , Zlatev Zlatko , Alwan Nisreen A , Fraser Simon DS
Published: October 2022

Objectives

The prevalence of multiple long-term condition (LTC) multimorbidity is increasing with younger onset among socioeconomically deprived populations. Research on life course trajectories towards multimorbidity is limited and early-onset multimorbidity poorly characterised. Understanding sentinel conditions (the first LTC occurring in the life course), the sequence of LTC accrual and the permanency of the reporting of LTCs may help identify time points for prevention efforts. We used a longitudinal birth cohort to estimate the prevalence of a common three-condition early-onset multimorbidity (multiple long-term condition multimorbidity (MLTC-M)) group at midlife, describe the frequency of sentinel conditions, the sequence of LTC accrual and explore the permanency of one of these conditions: psychological distress.

Setting

1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70).

Participants

17 196 cohort members born in 1970.

Outcome measures

Prevalence of the most common three-condition multimorbidity group at age 46. The nature and timing of sentinel conditions, the sequencing patterns of subsequent LTC accrual and the permanency of the reporting of psychological distress.

Results

At age 46 high blood pressure, psychological distress and back pain were the most common three-condition MLTC-M group, (4.3%, n=370). A subgroup of 164 (44.3%) people provided complete information on LTC across all time points. Psychological distress measured by the Malaise Index was the most common sentinel condition, occurring in 25.0% (n=41), followed by back pain (22%, n=36). At age 26, 45.1% (75/164) reported their sentinel condition. The most common sequence of LTC accrual was the co-reporting of psychological distress and back pain followed by high blood pressure. Almost one-third (30.5%, n=50) reported a variation of psychological distress across the adult life course.

Conclusion

In these exploratory analyses, psychological distress and back pain were the most common sentinel conditions, and along with high blood pressure these three conditions represented the most common three-condition MLTC-M group. These analyses suggest that birth cohorts, like the BCS70, may usefully inform life course-multimorbidity research.