bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvised herding: Mapping biobehavioral mechanisms that underlie group efficacy during improvised social interaction
Authors: Greenberg David M. , Milstein Nir , Gilboa Avi , Cohen Shai , Haimovich Nir , Siegman Shahar , Pinhasi Shay , Gordon Ilanit
Published: April 2023

Improvisation is a natural occurring phenomenon that is central to social interaction. Yet, improvisation is an understudied area in group processes and intergroup relations. Here we build on theory and research about human herding to study the contributions of improvisation on group efficacy and its biobehavioral underpinnings. We employed a novel multimodal approach and integrative method when observing face‐to‐face interactions—51 triads (total N = 153) drummed together in spontaneous‐free improvisations as a group, while their electrodermal activity was monitored simultaneously with their second‐by‐second rhythmic coordination on a shared electronic drum machine. Our results show that three hypothesized factors of human herding—physiological synchrony, behavioral coordination, and emotional contagion—predict a sense of group efficacy in its group members. These findings are some of the first to show herding at three levels (physiological, behavioral, and mental) in a single study and lay a basis for understanding the role of improvisation in social interaction.
Proximal to distal sequencing impacts on maximum shoulder joint angles and the risk of impingement in baseball pitching involving a scapular independent thoracohumeral model
Authors: Yanai Toshimasa , Crotin Ryan , Du Tanghuizi
Published: April 2023

Background

Hyperangulation of the scapulohumeral joint due to poor coordination of the scapula during throwing motion is claimed to be a major cause of internal impingement in baseball pitchers. However, evidence of injurious scapular kinematics is lacking, particularly regarding how hyperangularion actually occurs in full‐effort pitching. The purpose of this study was to describe sequential scapular motions involved in attaining maximum joint angles during pitching and the implications for internal impingement in elite baseball pitchers.

Methods

An electromagnetic goniometer system computed kinematics for pelvis, thorax, scapulae, arms, and forearms during baseball pitching in 72 pitchers. Internal impingement risk was assessed based on kinematic characteristics of internal impingement quantified in a cadaveric study.

Results

The pelvis, thorax, and scapula rotated in the proximal‐to‐distal sequence. Large forearm layback observed near the end of the cocking phase (182 ± 27°) was achieved with a submaximal scapulohumeral external rotation (98 ± 14°). In the next 0.027 ± 0.007 s, forward thoracic rotation and then scapular rotation caused increased scapulohumeral external rotation to a maximum of 113 ± 14°. Here, humeral horizontal adduction and scapula protraction occurred simultaneously preventing the humerus from lagging further behind the scapula. Only one participant reached critical hyperangulation beyond which internal impingement was reported to occur.

Conclusion

Most elite pitchers safely attained the fully cocked position, yet off‐timed recoiling of scapular protraction caused hyperangulation in full‐effort pitching. Therefore, proximal‐distal sequencing between the scapula and humerus should be evaluated to lessen the risk of internal impingement in baseball pitchers.
Etanercept ameliorates psoriasis progression through regulating high mobility group box 1 pathway
Authors: Li Shu , Li Guangli , Li Xiaoyan , Wu Fan , Li Ling
Published: April 2023

Background

As a common skin disease, psoriasis is related to inflammation and immune response. Due to the frequent recurrence of psoriasis, the treatment of psoriasis remains a clinical challenge. As an effective tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) inhibitor, etanercept has been used for the treatment of psoriasis. However, some patients with psoriasis have no response to etanercept or discontinue treatment. To improve the therapeutic effect of etanercept, searching the potential biomarkers and investigating the related mechanisms of etanercept in the treatment of psoriasis are vital.

Materials and methods

We stimulated HaCaT cells with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to generate cellular psoriatic changes and established an imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis‐like mouse model, and then used an etanercept to treat cell and mouse model.

Results

Etanercept alleviated IMQ‐induced pathological changes and inflammation, and it also decreased the protein expression of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), receptor for advanced glycation end‐products, and toll‐like receptor 4. Moreover, the results of in vitro experiments showed that etanercept inhibited proliferation and inflammation, and promoted cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in LPS‐treated HaCaT cells. Knockdown of HMGB1 further enhanced the inhibitory effects of etanercept on LPS‐treated HaCaT cell viability and inflammation, while overexpression of HMGB1 notably reversed the inhibitory effects of etanercept on LPS‐induced HaCaT cell viability and inflammation.

Conclusion

Etanercept inhibited proliferation and inflammation and promoted cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in LPS‐induced HaCaT cells, and etanercept ameliorated inflammation in a psoriasis‐like mouse model.
Barriers and facilitators to cord blood banking among pregnant women at a university obstetric clinic
Authors: Mayfield Laura , Rojo Martha , Kalkwarf Shannon , Helmich Melissa , Jin Jing , Wells Cheryl , Badger Plummer , Cottler‐Fox Michele
Published: April 2023

Background

Cord blood (CB) is a cell source for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In 2019, the percentage of births with CB collected for banking was only 3% nationally and 0.05% in our state. To increase CB donations, we need to understand pregnant women's awareness and knowledge of, plus barriers and facilitators to, CB banking (CBB).

Study Design and Methods

We recruited 289 women in their third trimester from an academic obstetric clinic between October 2020 and May 2021. Women attending this clinic come from all parts of the state in addition to local city residents. After agreeing to participate, participants completed a survey using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). Data were analyzed using SAS version 9.4.

Results

Exactly 58.9% of participants had heard of CBB, but only 26.53% understood its purpose; 10.03% indicated someone had discussed CBB with them, and 61.3% were undecided about it. The preferred source of information was the clinic provider (82.1%), followed by CB bank staff (36.8%). The requested mode for receiving information was face‐to‐face with their provider, including written materials. Income, education, and marital status did not have a significant influence on information preferences.

Discussion

Lack of knowledge continues to be a major barrier to CBB. Developing educational interventions based on womens' preferences may increase understanding of CBB. Study participants preferred that the healthcare provider deliver this information. This study was done in a primarily rural, southern state, while previous studies were in larger metropolitan areas, yet results are comparable.
THE ROLE OF COMPACTION ON PYHSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND CARBON EMISSIONS OF TROPICAL PEAT SOILS: A REVIEW
Authors: Samuel Marshall Kana , Evers Stephanie Lorna
Published: April 2023

The peat compaction method is currently adopted by Malaysia oil palm companies to mitigate the uprising environmental issues. This method is claimed to be effective in minimising the risk of fire through enhancement of soil moisture due to capillary effect. In this review, the authors discussed on the peatland function in global perspective, the important of peat soil compaction, emergence of potential peat compaction in oil palm plantation establishment, peat compaction processes and the effects of compaction on physicochemical properties and carbon emission via peat surface and fire. Authors also found that compaction terminology on tropical peatland should be defined wisely, as it closely depends on the initial water table level and the peat quality. Thus, the retrieved information could serve as basic platform to further probe into the highlighted aspects and may as well function as a guide for management of these sensitive ecosystems, particularly in light of carbon loss mitigation.
DELAMINATION DETECTION IN THIN-WALLED COMPOSITE STRUCTURES USING ACOUSTIC PITCH-CATCH TECHNIQUE WITH FIBER BRAGG GRATING SENSORS
Authors: Hafizi Z. M. , Ibrahim I. N. , Vorathin E.
Published: April 2023

Structural health monitoring (SHM) of a composite structure is essential in maintaining the integrity of the structure. Over the years, various studies have reported on the use of conventional electrical sensors in analysing acoustic wave propagation for delamination detection. However, electrical sensors are associated with drawbacks such as high signal attenuation, are prone to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and are not suitable for harsh environments. Therefore, this paper reported on the use of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors for delamination detection. Two composite structures with delamination sizes of 10 cm × 2 cm and 10 cm × 6 cm were fabricated. Two FBGs were bonded before and after the delamination. In addition, three trials of impacts were induced at the centre of the structure. Multiple signal parameters were obtained and analysed, which were the time delay, amplitude difference and velocity difference. The experimental results revealed that the time delay, amplitude and velocity analysis varied for both the delamination sizes with an average percentage of 42.36%, 97.09% and 42.39%, respectively. Therefore, it was confirmed that the increase in delamination size resulted in a longer time delay, higher signal amplitude attenuation and slower wave propagation.
STUDY OF THE DOSE CURVE TO DETERMINE THE DOSE RECEIVED BY A PATIENT ON THE DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY
Authors: Salam Mahrus , Puspitasari Ayu Jati
Published: April 2023

A study of the dose curve to determine the dose received by a patient on the diagnostic radiology was carried out. One of the efforts to apply radiation dose optimization in diagnostic radiology is using the Diagnostic Reference Level (DRL), the dose value used as a reference for each radiological examination. The primary purpose of this study is to develop a method for determining the dose curve as a function of two variables: x-ray tube current and x-ray beam energy. Furthermore, the dose curve that has been developed can be used to estimate the value of the patient dose for each exposure factor arranged. In this study, the dose curve is determined using the polynomial model compiled using MATLAB software, and then validation is carried out using calibrated dosimeter. It shows that at a focus-to-detector distance (FDD) of 100 cm, the deviation factor is 4.89%. It meets the acceptance criteria determined, which is less than 5%. Furthermore, another validation result at FFD 50 cm shows that the average deviation value is 0.43%. In addition, the estimated dose still met the DRL criteria, where the estimated dose obtained for thorax AP and abdominal examinations are 0.26 mGy and 1.5 mGy, respectively. These values were still below the Indonesian Diagnostic Reference Level (IDRL) criteria determined by the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency of Indonesia (BAPETEN), which are 0.4 mGy and 10 mGy for thorax AP and abdominal, respectively.
OPTICAL TRAPPING OF A SINGLE CHLOROFORM MICRODROPLET IN WATER
Authors: Mat Yeng Muhamad Safuan , Ayop Shahrul Kadri , Sasaki Keiji
Published: April 2023

The study aims to optically trap a single chloroform (CHCl3) microdroplet in water using optical tweezers. The study also investigates the effect of the preparation procedure by sonication on the chloroform microdroplet size and its stability in water. This microdroplet can potentially act as a carrier containing active molecules and for sensor applications in a fluid. The chloroform is sonicated in deionized water to produce a chloroform microdroplet solution. The size of the resultant microdroplets is observed under the optical microscope. The stability of the chloroform microdroplets in water was studied by monitoring the absorption spectra within a specified duration of time for 1 hour. A single chloroform microdroplet in the water is trapped using a 976 nm continuous laser beam with optical tweezers. The finding shows that the average size of the produced chloroform microdroplets does not vary significantly when the sonication time is less than 10 minutes. Furthermore, Chloroform microdroplets in water were stable within an hour of monitoring time. This study confirmed that a single chloroform microdroplet could be stably trapped using optical tweezers. It implies that the chloroform can form stable microdroplets in water and can be optically trapped under a focused laser.
A chronic high‐fat diet does not exacerbate muscle atrophy in fast‐twitch skeletal muscle of aged mice
Authors: Tagawa Tsutomu , Eshima Hiroaki , Kakehi Saori , Kawamori Ryuzo , Watada Hirotaka , Tamura Yoshifumi
Published: April 2023

Obesity and ageing reduce muscle mass and lead to deficits in muscle maintenance, but it is not known whether obesity accelerates muscle wasting additively in the setting of ageing. We investigated morphological characteristics in fast‐twitch extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle of mice fed a low‐fat diet (LFD) or a high‐fat diet (HFD) for 4 or 20 months. The fast‐twitch EDL muscle was harvested, and the muscle fibre‐type composition, individual muscle cross‐sectional area and myotube diameter were measured. We found an increase in the percentage of type IIa and IIx myosin heavy chain fibres in the whole EDL muscle, but a decrease in type IIB myosin heavy chain in both HFD protocols. The cross‐sectional area and myofibre diameter were lower in both groups of aged mice (after 20 months of LFD or HFD) compared with young mice (after 4 months of the diets), but there were no differences between mice fed LFD or HFD for 20 months. These data suggest that long‐term feeding of HFD does not aggravate muscle wasting in fast‐twitch EDL muscle of male mice.
Beam-Like Topologically Interlocked Structures With Hierarchical Interlocking
Authors: Koureas Ioannis , Pundir Mohit , Feldfogel Shai , Kammer David S.
Published: April 2023

Topologically interlocked materials and structures, which are assemblies of unbonded interlocking building blocks, are promising concepts for versatile structural applications. They have been shown to exhibit exceptional mechanical properties, including outstanding combinations of stiffness, strength, and toughness, beyond those achievable with common engineering materials. Recent work has established a theoretical upper limit for the strength and toughness of beam-like topologically interlocked structures. However, this theoretical limit is only attainable for structures with unrealistically high friction coefficients; therefore, it remains unknown whether it is achievable in actual structures. Here, we demonstrate that a hierarchical approach for topological interlocking, inspired by biological systems, overcomes these limitations and provides a path toward optimized mechanical performance. We consider beam-like topologically interlocked structures that present a sinusoidal surface morphology with controllable amplitude and wavelength and examine the properties of the structures using numerical simulations. The results show that the presence of surface morphologies increases the effective frictional strength of the interfaces and, if well-designed, enables us to reach the theoretical limit of the structural carrying capacity with realistic friction coefficients. Furthermore, we observe that the contribution of the surface morphology to the effective friction coefficient of the interface is well described by a criterion combining the surface curvature and surface gradient. Our study demonstrates the ability to architecture the surface morphology in beam-like topological interlocked structures to significantly enhance its structural performance.
An Adaptive Job Shop Scheduling Mechanism for Disturbances by Running Reinforcement Learning in Digital Twin Environment
Authors: Fang Weiguang , Zhang Hao , Qian Weiwei , Guo Yu , Li Shaoxun , Liu Zeqing , Liu Chenning , Hong Dongpao
Published: April 2023

Practical manufacturing system operates in highly dynamic and uncertain environments, where stochastic disturbances disrupt the execution of the production schedule as originally developed. Previous dynamic scheduling mainly focuses on the constructing predictive models for machine unavailability, with little studies on the adaptive and self-learning capacities for changing scheduling environments. Therefore, a digital twin (DT) driven scheduling with a dynamic feedback mechanism is proposed, in which a reinforcement learning (RL) based adaptive scheduling is developed in DT to make corrective decisions for the disturbances during production runs. In the proposed architecture, the happening disturbance is first detected in the virtual layer by the status continuously updating in accordance with the physical workshop. Furthermore, the reschedule triggering condition is determined in real-time through the calculation of the progress deviations resulting from disturbances. For the scheduling approach, the distributed RL (DRL) based adaptive scheduling method is built to perceive the dynamic production status from virtual environment and implement corrective strategies to hedge against the occurred disturbances. Finally, the proposed method is verified by a practical job shop case and the corresponding DT system is developed to show the effectiveness and advantages after a practical implementation.
A 3D Structure Mapping-Based Efficient Topology Optimization Framework
Authors: Li Kangjie , Ye Wenjing , Gao Yicong
Published: April 2023

It is well known that the computational cost of classic topology optimization (TO) methods increases rapidly with the size of the design problem because of the high-dimensional numerical simulation required at each iteration. Recently, the technical route of replacing the TO process with artificial neural network (ANN) models has gained popularity. These ANN models, once trained, can rapidly produce an optimized design solution for a given design specification. However, the complex mapping relationship between design specifications and corresponding optimized structures presents challenges in the construction of neural networks with good generalizability. In this paper, we propose a new design framework that uses deep learning techniques to accelerate the TO process. Specifically, we present an efficient topology optimization (ETO) framework in which structure update at each iteration is conducted on a coarse scale and a structure mapping neural network (SMapNN) is constructed to map the updated coarse structure to its corresponding fine structure. As such, fine-scale numerical simulations are replaced by coarse-scale simulations, thereby greatly reducing the computational cost. In addition, fragmentation and padding strategies are used to improve the trainability and adaptability of SMapNN, leading to a better generalizability. The efficiency and accuracy of the proposed ETO framework are verified using both benchmark and complex design tasks. It has been shown that with the SMapNN, TO designs of millions of elements can be completed within a few minutes on a personal computer.
kalypso Autonomous Underwater Vehicle: A 3D-Printed Underwater Vehicle for Inspection at Fisheries
Authors: Vasileiou Marios , Manos Nikolaos , Vasilopoulos Nikos , Douma Anastasia , Kavallieratou Ergina
Published: April 2023

In fish farms, a major issue is the net cage wear, resulting in fish escapes and negative impact on fish quality, due to holes and biofouling of the nets. To minimize fish losses, fisheries utilize divers to inspect net cages on a weekly basis. Aquaculture companies are looking for ways to maximize profit, and reducing maintenance costs is one of them. Kefalonia Fisheries spend 250,000 euros yearly on diver expenses for net cages maintenance. This work is about the design, fabrication, and control of an inexpensive autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) intended for inspection in net cages at Kefalonia Fisheries S.A. in Greece. Its main body is 3D printed, and its eight-thruster configuration grants it six degrees-of-freedom. The main objective of the vehicle is to limit maintenance costs by increasing inspection frequency. The design, fabrication, electronic components, and software architecture of the AUV are presented. In addition, the forces affecting kalypso, mobility realization, navigation, and modeling are quoted along with a flow simulation and the experimental results. The proposed design is adaptable and durable while remaining cost-effective, and it can be used for both manual and automatic operations.
Effects of Changes in Body Fat Mass as a Result of Regular Exercise on Hemoglobin A1c in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Igarashi Yutaka , Akazawa Nobuhiko , Maeda Seiji
Published: April 2023

An increase in visceral fat is associated with an increase in insulin resistance, so reducing body fat mass through exercise may help alleviate type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The current meta-analysis evaluated the effect of changes in body fat via an intervention of regular exercise on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in patients with T2DM. The inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials involving adults with T2DM, intervention involving exercise alone, an overall duration of intervention ≥12 weeks, and reporting HbA1c and body fat mass. The mean differences (MDs) were defined as the MD between the exercise group and the control group, and the MDs in HbA1c (in percentage) and body fat mass (in kilograms) were calculated. All MDs in HbA1c were pooled as overall effects. A meta-regression analysis was performed to evaluate the relationship between the MD in the body fat mass (in kilograms) and the MD in HbA1c. Twenty studies (1,134 subjects) were analyzed. The pooled MD in HbA1c (in percentage) decreased significantly (−0.4; 95% confidence interval [−0.5, −0.3]) but contained significant heterogeneity (Q = 52.7, p < .01; I2 = 41.6%). A meta-regression analysis showed that a decrease in the MD in body fat mass was significantly associated with a decrease in the MD in HbA1c (R2 = 80.0%) and heterogeneity decreased (Q = 27.3, p = .61; I2 = 11.9%), and a reduction in body fat mass of 1 kg was estimated to decrease the HbA1c (%) by approximately 0.2. The current study suggested that a decrease in HbA1c due to regular exercise depends on a reduction in body fat mass in patients with T2DM.
What Is a Parasport Coach’s Role During Athlete Classification? Exploring How Parasport Coaches Learn About Classification and Their Role Within This Process
Authors: Birchall Isabelle , Lawson Janet A. , Williams Toni L. , Latimer-Cheung Amy E.
Published: April 2023

Undergoing classification can be a difficult experience for athletes with disabilities, yet coaches may support athletes during this event. However, research has yet to examine either coaches’ roles during classification or how coaches learn to navigate this unique aspect of parasport. We purposed to explore parasport coaches’ roles during classification as well as the ways in which coaches learn about classification. Twelve Canadian high-performance coaches representing eight parasports participated in semistructured interviews. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis of the transcripts was conducted. Results show coaches view their role as intuitive and centered on preparing the athlete, ensuring fairness, and reframing classification outcomes. The ways coaches learned about classification varied, but coaches agreed there is a general lack of structured resources available to coaches interested in learning about classification. In addition to learning about classification, coaches valued understanding the athlete and their impairment to effectively fulfill their coaching roles.
Collegiate Coaches’ Reflective Inquiry Processes to Manage Performance Demands
Authors: Dixon Martin , Bolter Nicole D.
Published: April 2023

The current study investigated collegiate coaches’ reflective inquiry processes, and the subsequent development of emotional and personal resources, to facilitate their performance in demanding environments. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II head coaches (n = 13) to explore their reflective processes. A reflexive thematic analysis generated two main themes and five subthemes consisting of strengths-based inquiry (studying optimal functioning, building a reflective environment, and establishing personal resources) and deficits-based inquiry (learning from challenging issues and ruminating on problems). Findings revealed how coaches used reflective questions to better understand their personal strengths and successful experiences of their respective programmes. Furthermore, by fostering coaches’ sense of gratitude and engagement in social support, strengths-based reflection can build personal resources to enable thriving in demanding situations. However, coaches were inclined towards deficits-based reflections that focused on eradicating performance problems. Although reflecting on errors was important to guide future action and improve performance, fixating on shortcomings could be detrimental to coach well-being. Findings can enhance coaches’ understanding of reflection to manage performance demands by developing personal resources through reflective questions, prompts, and conversations.
Simultaneous Fe
2+
/Fe
3+
imaging shows Fe
3+
over Fe
2+
enrichment in Alzheimer’s disease mouse brain
Authors: Wu Yuting , Torabi Seyed-Fakhreddin , Lake Ryan J. , Hong Shanni , Yu Zhengxin , Wu Peiwen , Yang Zhenglin , Nelson Kevin , Guo Weijie , Pawel Gregory T. , Van Stappen Jacqueline , Shao Xiangli , Mirica Liviu M. , Lu Yi
Published: April 2023

Visualizing redox-active metal ions, such as Fe
2+
and Fe
3+
ions, are essential for understanding their roles in biological processes and human diseases. Despite the development of imaging probes and techniques, imaging both Fe
2+
and Fe
3+
simultaneously in living cells with high selectivity and sensitivity has not been reported. Here, we selected and developed DNAzyme-based fluorescent turn-on sensors that are selective for either Fe
2+
or Fe
3+
, revealing a decreased Fe
3+
/Fe
2+
ratio during ferroptosis and an increased Fe
3+
/Fe
2+
ratio in Alzheimer’s disease mouse brain. The elevated Fe
3+
/Fe
2+
ratio was mainly observed in amyloid plaque regions, suggesting a correlation between amyloid plaques and the accumulation of Fe
3+
and/or conversion of Fe
2+
to Fe
3+
. Our sensors can provide deep insights into the biological roles of labile iron redox cycling.
Grambank reveals the importance of genealogical constraints on linguistic diversity and highlights the impact of language loss
Authors: Skirgård Hedvig , Haynie Hannah J. , Blasi Damián E. , Hammarström Harald , Collins Jeremy , Latarche Jay J. , Lesage Jakob , Weber Tobias , Witzlack-Makarevich Alena , Passmore Sam , Chira Angela , Maurits Luke , Dinnage Russell , Dunn Michael , Reesink Ger , Singer Ruth , Bowern Claire , Epps Patience , Hill Jane , Vesakoski Outi , Robbeets Martine , Abbas Noor Karolin , Auer Daniel , Bakker Nancy A. , Barbos Giulia , Borges Robert D. , Danielsen Swintha , Dorenbusch Luise , Dorn Ella , Elliott John , Falcone Giada , Fischer Jana , Ghanggo Ate Yustinus , Gibson Hannah , Göbel Hans-Philipp , Goodall Jemima A. , Gruner Victoria , Harvey Andrew , Hayes Rebekah , Heer Leonard , Herrera Miranda Roberto E. , Hübler Nataliia , Huntington-Rainey Biu , Ivani Jessica K. , Johns Marilen , Just Erika , Kashima Eri , Kipf Carolina , Klingenberg Janina V. , König Nikita , Koti Aikaterina , Kowalik Richard G. A. , Krasnoukhova Olga , Lindvall Nora L. M. , Lorenzen Mandy , Lutzenberger Hannah , Martins Tânia R. A. , Mata German Celia , van der Meer Suzanne , Montoya Samamé Jaime , Müller Michael , Muradoglu Saliha , Neely Kelsey , Nickel Johanna , Norvik Miina , Oluoch Cheryl Akinyi , Peacock Jesse , Pearey India O. C. , Peck Naomi , Petit Stephanie , Pieper Sören , Poblete Mariana , Prestipino Daniel , Raabe Linda , Raja Amna , Reimringer Janis , Rey Sydney C. , Rizaew Julia , Ruppert Eloisa , Salmon Kim K. , Sammet Jill , Schembri Rhiannon , Schlabbach Lars , Schmidt Frederick W. P. , Skilton Amalia , Smith Wikaliler Daniel , de Sousa Hilário , Sverredal Kristin , Valle Daniel , Vera Javier , Voß Judith , Witte Tim , Wu Henry , Yam Stephanie , Ye Jingting , Yong Maisie , Yuditha Tessa , Zariquiey Roberto , Forkel Robert , Evans Nicholas , Levinson Stephen C. , Haspelmath Martin , Greenhill Simon J. , Atkinson Quentin D. , Gray Russell D.
Published: April 2023

While global patterns of human genetic diversity are increasingly well characterized, the diversity of human languages remains less systematically described. Here, we outline the Grambank database. With over 400,000 data points and 2400 languages, Grambank is the largest comparative grammatical database available. The comprehensiveness of Grambank allows us to quantify the relative effects of genealogical inheritance and geographic proximity on the structural diversity of the world’s languages, evaluate constraints on linguistic diversity, and identify the world’s most unusual languages. An analysis of the consequences of language loss reveals that the reduction in diversity will be strikingly uneven across the major linguistic regions of the world. Without sustained efforts to document and revitalize endangered languages, our linguistic window into human history, cognition, and culture will be seriously fragmented.
Mystery solved? Disease detectives identify the cause of a mass die-off in the sea
Authors: Vega Thurber Rebecca , Hay Mark
Published: April 2023

A mass sea urchin die-off in the Caribbean Sea in the 1980s may have resulted from a single-cell protist called a scuticociliate.
Epidemiology of Resistance Determinants Identified in Meropenem-Nonsusceptible
Enterobacterales
Collected as Part of a Global Surveillance Study, 2018 to 2019
Authors: Estabrook Mark , Muyldermans Astrid , Sahm Daniel , Pierard Denis , Stone Gregory , Utt Eric
Published: April 2023

The objective of this study was to describe the frequency of resistance determinants in meropenem-nonsusceptible (MEM-NS)
Enterobacterales
isolates collected in 2018 and 2019 as a part of the ATLAS global surveillance program. Among a total of 39,368
Enterobacterales
isolates collected in 2018 and 2019, 5.7% were MEM-NS (MIC ≥2 μg/mL).
Unusual Relationship between Iron Deprivation and Organophosphate Hydrolase Expression
Authors: Nandavaram Aparna , Nandakumar Anirudh , Kashif G. M. , Sagar Annapoorni Lakshman , Shailaja G. , Ramesh Arati , Siddavattam Dayananda
Published: April 2023

Sphingobium fuliginis
, a soil-dwelling microbe isolated from agricultural soils, was shown to degrade a variety of insecticides and pesticides. These synthetic chemicals function as potent neurotoxins, and they belong to a class of chemicals termed organophosphates.
S. fuliginis
codes for OPH, an enzyme that has been shown to be involved in the metabolism of several organophosphates and their derivatives.
PtsN in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Is Phosphorylated by Redundant Upstream Proteins and Impacts Virulence-Related Genes
Authors: Underhill Simon A. M. , Pan Somalisa , Erdmann Mary , Cabeen Matthew T.
Published: April 2023

The PtsN protein impacts the physiology of a number of bacterial species, and its control over downstream targets can be altered by its phosphorylation state. Neither its upstream phosphotransferases nor its downstream targets are well understood in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
.
A Novel Pathway for Biosynthesis of the Herbicidal Phosphonate Natural Product Phosphonothrixin Is Widespread in Actinobacteria
Authors: Bown Luke , Hirota Ryuichi , Goettge Michelle N. , Cui Jerry , Krist David T. , Zhu Lingyang , Giurgiu Constantin , van der Donk Wilfred A. , Ju Kou-San , Metcalf William W.
Published: April 2023

Phosphonic acid natural products, such as phosphonothrixin, have great potential for biomedical and agricultural applications; however, discovery and development of these compounds requires detailed knowledge of the metabolism involved in their biosynthesis. The studies reported here reveal the biochemical pathway phosphonothrixin production, which enhances our ability to design strains that overproduce this potentially useful herbicide.
Role of RNA Domain Structure and Orientation in the Coxsackievirus B3 Virulence Phenotype
Authors: Phillips Lydia , Tapprich William E.
Published: April 2023

Human enteroviruses, which include five different species and over 100 serotypes, are responsible for diseases ranging from mild respiratory infections to serious infections of pancreas, heart, and neural tissue. All enteroviral RNA genomes have a long and highly structured 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR) containing an internal ribosome entry site (IRES).
Antibiotic Conditioning Shapes Pseudosterile Mouse Models by Deleting Colonic Microbes Rather than Small Intestinal Microbes
Authors: Chen Qingxue , Ma Xinming , Xing Zhishuang , Zhao Xin , Zu Hang , Guo Zengwang , Li Bailiang
Published: April 2023

Many studies have applied antibiotics to delete intestinal microbes to shape pseudosterile mouse models and further used for fecal microbial transplantation. However, few studies have explored the spatial location of antibiotic action in the intestine.
Intratumoral Microbiota-Host Interactions Shape the Variability of Lung Adenocarcinoma and Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Recurrence and Metastasis
Authors: Zhou Xiangfeng , Ji Lei , Ma Yanyu , Tian Geng , Lv Kebo , Yang Jialiang
Published: April 2023

Our study elucidates significant differences in RM-associated host-microbe interactions between LUAD and LUSC. Besides, the microbes in tumor tissue could be used to predict the RM risk of LUSC, and the predicted risk score is associated with patients’ survival.
Circulation of HDV Genotypes in Brazil: Identification of a Putative Novel HDV-8 Subgenotype
Authors: Mello Francisco C. A. , Barros Tairine M. , Angelice Giovana P. , Costa Vanessa D. , Mello Vinicius M. , Pardini Maria Inês M. C. , Lampe Elisabeth , Lago Barbara V. , Villar Livia M.
Published: April 2023

Considered a neglected pathogen until the last 2 decades, an increase in the availability of genetic data of hepatitis D virus (HDV) strains around the world has been noticed recently, resulting in the proposition of different classifications. Our study aimed to determine the molecular epidemiological profile of HDV isolates circulating in areas of endemicity and non-areas of endemicity in Brazil.
In Situ
Molecular Ecological Analyses Illuminate Distinct Factors Regulating Formation and Demise of a Harmful Dinoflagellate Bloom
Authors: Yu Liying , Li Tangcheng , Li Hongfei , Ma Minglei , Li Ling , Lin Senjie
Published: April 2023

HABs have increasingly occurred and impacted human health, aquatic ecosystems, and coastal economies. Despite great efforts, the factors that drive the development and termination of a bloom are poorly understood, largely due to inadequate
in situ
data about the physiology and metabolism of the causal species and the community.
Discovery of a giant 3.3–3.1 Ga terrane in the Rae craton, Canada: Implications for the timing and extent of ancient continental growth
Authors: Neil Benjamin J.C. , Tersmette Daniel B. , Chacko Thomas , Heaman Larry M. , Kjarsgaard Bruce A. , Martel Edith , Creaser Robert A. , Pearson D. Graham , Stern Richard A. , Dufrane S. Andrew , Luo Yan
Published: April 2023

We report the discovery of one of the largest ancient (>3.0 Ga) crustal terranes on Earth. Granitoids with crystallization ages >3.0 Ga and/or Sm-Nd depleted mantle model ages ≥3.2 Ga define a ~1000 × 100 km belt on the western margin of the Rae craton, Canada, referred to herein as the Perry River terrane (PRT). Zircon U-Pb-Hf-O isotope and whole-rock geochemical data from granitoids show that the PRT is a predominantly juvenile 3.3–3.2 Ga terrane that was partially reworked by more evolved ca. 3.1 Ga magmatism. These findings call for a reassessment of the timing and extent of ancient continental growth on Earth. A global compilation of zircon Hf isotope data from 3.6 to 3.0 Ga igneous rocks reveals clusters of relatively juvenile (initial εHf −2 to +3) rocks at ca. 3.31 and ca. 3.23 Ga, which include samples from the PRT and 13 other terranes worldwide. Other global zircon data sets also document age peaks between 3.3 and 3.2 Ga, and a cluster of broadly chondritic initial εHf values around 3.2 Ga. The 3.3–3.2 Ga period may therefore have been a time of enhanced net continental growth on Earth, and the PRT is one of the largest terranes preserved from that time. Furthermore, zircon Hf isotope data from 3.3–3.1 Ga PRT granitoids and 3.5–3.0 Ga igneous rocks worldwide yield little evidence for parent magmas that interacted with or derived from pre–3.6 Ga continental material. Contrary to some continental-growth models, this latter observation suggests that the volume of continental crust established by 3.6 Ga was relatively small.
Rare case of high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma metastasising to inferior vena cava and right atrium
Authors: Deshmukh Priyanka , Haldar Krishnayan
Published: April 2023

Endometrial stromal sarcomas (ESSs) are a rare form of uterine malignancy representing <10% of all uterine sarcomas and <1% of all primary malignant tumours of the uterus. Invasion of the vascular system by low-grade ESS has been reported in the literature. Here we report the first case of a high-grade ESS invading the pelvic and gonadal vein and extending through the inferior vena cava to the right atrium, the diagnostic challenges and multidisciplinary management of the case.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on working conditions and mental well-being of mental health professionals in the Netherlands: a cross-sectional study
Authors: van Doesum Tessa J , Shields-Zeeman Laura S , Leone Stephanie S , van Meijel Berno , Jabbarian Lea J , van Bon-Martens Marja
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To examine the extent of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and well-being of mental health professionals (MHPs) in the Netherlands and understand their needs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design and setting

A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted with MHPs from the Netherlands from June 2020 to October 2020, consisting of an online survey and three online focus group discussions.

Participants

Participants were MHPs from various occupational groups (psychologists, social workers, mental health nurses, developmental education workers, etc).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The online survey included questions about work-related changes due to COVID-19 perceived resilience to stress, changes in lifestyle behaviours and mental health symptoms. The focus group discussions focused mostly on work experiences during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

MHP’s reported an increase in experience workload during the pandemic (mean score 8.04 based on a scale of 1-10) compared to before the pandemic (mean score of 7). During the first wave of the pandemic, 50% of respondents reported increased stress, 32% increased sleeping problems and 24% increased mental health problems. Adverse occupational (eg, increased workload OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.28–2.32), psychological (eg, life satisfaction OR 0.63, 95% CI 0.52–0.75), lifestyle (eg, increased sleep problems OR 2.80, 95% CI 2.07–3.80) and physical factors (decline in physical health OR 3.56, 95% CI 2.61–4.85) were associated with a decline in mental health. Participants expressed significant concern in the focus group discussions about the duration of the pandemic, the high workload, less work-life balance and lack of contact with colleagues. Suggestions to improve working conditions included ensuring clear communication about guidelines and facilitating worker contact and support via peer-to-peer coaching where experiences can be shared.

Conclusions

The current study indicates that MHP experienced a decline in mental health status during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, which should be taken into consideration by employers, policymakers and researchers.
Effectiveness and safety of implementing an enhanced patient comfort programme for elective neurosurgical patients: a randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Liu Bolin , Liu Shujuan , Wang Binrong , Liu Wenjuan , Chen Lei , Zheng Tao , Lu Dan , Ma Tao , He Shiming
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Patient comfort is an important quality indicator of healthcare. According to Kolcaba’s comfort theory, enhanced comfort is achieved by meeting the needs in four contexts: physical, psychospiritual, sociocultural and environmental. An enhanced patient comfort (EPC) programme based on this theory has been designed for elective neurosurgical patients. This study aims to assess its feasibility, effectiveness and safety.

Methods and analysis

The EPC programme patients will be evaluated in a single institutional randomised controlled trial. A total of 110 patients admitted for elective neurosurgery (including craniotomy, endoscopic trans-sphenoidal surgery and spine surgery) will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to two groups. Patients in the EPC group are managed under the newly developed EPC programme, which aims to enhance patient experience and includes care coordination since admission (such as appointment of a care support coordinator, personalised setting, and cultural and spiritual support), preoperative management (such as lifestyle intervention, potential psychological and sleep intervention, and prerehabilitation), intraoperative and anaesthetic management (such as nurse coaching, music playing, and pre-emptive warming), postoperative management (such as early extubation, early diet advancement, mood and sleep management, and early ambulation) and optimised discharge planning; while those in the control group receive conventional perioperative care. The primary outcome is patient satisfaction and comfort measured by the Chinese Surgical Inpatient Satisfaction and Comfort Questionnaire. The secondary outcomes include postoperative morbidity and mortality, postoperative pain score, postoperative nausea and vomiting, functional recovery status (Karnofsky performance status and Quality of Recovery-15 score), mental status (anxiety and depression), nutritional status, health-related quality of life, hospital length of stay, reoperation and readmission rates, overall cost and patient experience.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval to conduct the study has been obtained from Institutional Review Board of Xi’an International Medical Center (No. 202028). The results will be presented at scientific meetings and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

Chinese clinical trial registry ChiCTR2000039983.
Feasibility study to evaluate capabilities for conducting psychiatric clinical research within the Rwandan mental healthcare system
Authors: Alphs Larry , Turkoz Ibrahim , Smith-Swintosky Virginia , Keenan Alexander , Abraham Emily , Schotte Alain , Hooker Eileen , Damascene Iyamuremye Jean , Kayiteshonga Yvonne , Bizoza Rutakayile , Mancevski Branislav
Published: April 2023

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of conducting a large clinical trial within the Rwandan mental healthcare system that would establish the safety, efficacy and benefit of paliperidone palmitate once-monthly (PP1M) and once-every-3-months (PP3M) long-acting injectable formulations in adults with schizophrenia.

Study design

An open-label, prospective feasibility study.

Setting/Participants

33 adult patients with schizophrenia were enrolled at 3 sites across Rwanda.

Interventions

The study design included 3 phases of treatment: an oral run-in to establish tolerability to risperidone (1 week), lead-in treatment with flexibly dosed PP1M to identify a stable dose (17 weeks) and maintenance treatment with PP3M (24 weeks).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Feasibility endpoints included compliance with governmental and institutional requirements, acceptable supply chain delivery and proper onsite administration of risperidone/PP1M/PP3M, adequate site infrastructure, adequate training of clinical staff and successful completion of study procedures and scales. A variety of study scales were administered to assess outcomes relevant to patients, caregivers, clinicians and payers in Rwanda and other resource-limited settings.

Results

This study was terminated early by the sponsor because certain aspects of study conduct needed to be addressed to maintain Good Clinical Practice requirements and meet regulatory standards. Results identified areas for improvement in study execution, including study governance, site infrastructure, study preparation and conduct of procedures, study budget and study assessments. Despite the identification of areas in need of adjustment, none of these limitations were considered insurmountable.

Conclusions

This work was designed to strengthen global research in schizophrenia by building the capacity of researchers to prepare and conduct pharmaceutical trials in resource-limited settings. Although the study was ended early, modifications motivated by the results will facilitate the successful design and completion of more comprehensive studies, including an ongoing, follow-up interventional trial of PP1M/PP3M in a larger population of patients in Rwanda.

Trial registration number

NCT03713658
Can co-created knowledge mobilisation interventions alter and enhance mindlines to improve childhood eczema care? A UK-based Social Impact Framework evaluation
Authors: Cowdell Fiona , Lax Stephanie , Van Onselen Julie , Pendleton Rose
Published: April 2023

Objective

To evaluate the impact of using knowledge mobilisation interventions to alter and enhance mindlines and improve childhood eczema care.

Design

The eczema mindlines study involved three stages: (1) mapping and confirming eczema mindlines, (2) intervention development and delivery and (3) analysis of intervention impact. The focus of this paper is on stage 3. Data analysis was guided by the Social Impact Framework to address the questions: (1) what is the impact of this study on individuals and groups? (2) what changes in behaviour and practice have occurred due to their involvement? (3) what mechanisms have enabled these impacts or changes to occur? and (4) what are the recommendations and questions arising from this research?

Settings

A deprived inner-city neighbourhood in central England and national/international settings.

Participants

Patients, practitioners and wider community members exposed to the interventions locally, nationally and internationally.

Results

Data revealed tangible multi-level, relational and intellectual impacts. Mechanisms supporting impact included: simplicity and consistency of messages adapted to audience, flexibility, opportunism and perseverance, personal interconnectivity and acknowledgement of emotion. Co-created knowledge mobilisation strategies to alter and enhance mindlines mediated through knowledge brokering were effective in producing tangible changes in eczema care practice and self-management and in ‘mainstreaming’ childhood eczema in positive way across communities. These changes cannot be directly attributed to the knowledge mobilisation interventions, however, the evidence points to the significant contribution made.

Conclusion

Co-created knowledge mobilisation interventions offer a valuable method of altering and enhancing eczema mindlines across lay-practitioner-wider society boundaries. The Social Impact Framework provides comprehensive method of understanding and documenting the complex web of impact occurring as a result of knowledge mobilisation. This approach is transferable to managing other long-term conditions.