bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delay Between Actual Occurrence of Patient Vital Sign and the Nominal Appearance in the Electronic Health Record: Single-Center, Retrospective Study of PICU Data, 2014–2018
Authors: Schlosser Metitiri Katherine R. , Perotte Adler
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVES:

Patient vital sign data charted in the electronic health record (EHR) are used for time-sensitive decisions, yet little is known about when these data become nominally available compared with when the vital sign was actually measured. The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude of any delay between when a vital sign was actually measured in a patient and when it nominally appears in the EHR.

DESIGN:

We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study.

SETTING:

Tertiary academic children’s hospital.

PATIENTS:

A total of 5,458 patients were admitted to a PICU from January 2014 to December 2018.

INTERVENTIONS:

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

We analyzed entry and display times of all vital signs entered in the EHR. The primary outcome measurement was time between vital sign occurrence and nominal timing of the vital sign in the EHR. An additional outcome measurement was the frequency of batch charting. A total of 9,818,901 vital sign recordings occurred during the study period. Across the entire cohort the median (interquartile range [IQR]) difference between time of occurrence and nominal time in the EHR was in hours:minutes:seconds, 00:41:58 (IQR 00:13:42–01:44:10). Lag in the first 24 hours of PICU admission was 00:47:34 (IQR 00:15:23–02:19:00), lag in the last 24 hours was 00:38:49 (IQR 00:13:09–01:29:22;p< 0.001). There were 1,892,143 occurrences of batch charting.

CONCLUSIONS:

This retrospective study shows a lag between vital sign occurrence and its appearance in the EHR, as well as a frequent practice of batch charting. The magnitude of the delay—median ~40 minutes—suggests that vital signs available in the EHR for clinical review and incorporation into clinical alerts may be outdated by the time they are available.
The Need for Responsive Workforce Development During the Pandemic and Beyond: A Case Study of the Regional Public Health Training Centers
Authors: Kulik Phoebe K. G. , Alperin Melissa , Todd Barrett Karla S. , Bekemeier Betty , Documet Patricia I. , Francis Kimberly A. , Gloria Christian T. , Healy Erich , Hileman Roger , Kenefick Hope W. , Lederer Alyssa M. , Leider Jonathon P. , McCormick Lisa C. , Prechter Laura , Reynolds Kelly A. , Rogers Megan H. , Rose Barbara , Scallan Walter Elaine J. , Walkner Laurie M. , Zemmel Danielle J. , Power Laura E.
Published: November 2023

Context:

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of a strong public health infrastructure for protecting and supporting the health of communities. This includes ensuring an adaptive workforce capable of leading through rapidly changing circumstances, communicating effectively, and applying systems thinking to leverage cross-sector partnerships that help promote health equity. The 10 Regional Public Health Training Centers (PHTCs) advance the capacity of the current and future public health workforce through skill development and technical assistance in these and other strategic areas.

Program:

This study examines activities through which the Regional PHTCs and their partners supported the public health workforce during the pandemic. Representatives of the 10 Regional PHTCs completed a survey in the spring of 2022. The survey included (1) pulling trends in training usage from 2018-2021 annual performance reports and (2) questions assessing the type, content, and reach of training needs assessments, training and technical assistance, student placements, and PHTC Network collaborative activities that occurred from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021. Respondents also reflected on trends in use, challenges, lessons learned, stories of impact, and future PHTC practice.

Evaluation:

During the pandemic, the Regional PHTCs engaged in numerous efforts to assess needs, provide training and technical assistance to the practice community, facilitate projects that built student competency to support public health agency efforts, and collaborate as the PHTC Network on national-level initiatives. Across these activities, the Regional PHTCs adjusted their approaches and learned from each other in order to meet regional needs.

Discussion:

The Regional PHTCs provided student and professional development in foundational public health knowledge and skills within their regions and nationally while being flexible and responsive to the changing needs of the field during the pandemic. Our study highlights opportunities for collaboration and adaptive approaches to public health workforce development in a postpandemic environment.
Considerations for long-acting antiretroviral therapy in older persons with HIV
Authors: O'Shea Jesse G. , Cholli Preetam , Heil Emily L. , Buchacz Kate
Published: November 2023

People with HIV (PWH) can now enjoy longer, healthier lives due to safe and highly effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), and improved care and prevention strategies. New drug formulations such as long-acting injectables (LAI) may overcome some limitations and issues with oral antiretroviral therapy and strengthen medication adherence. However, challenges and questions remain regarding their use in aging populations. Here, we review unique considerations for LAI-ART for the treatment of HIV in older PWH, including benefits, risks, pharmacological considerations, implementation challenges, knowledge gaps, and identify factors that may facilitate uptake of LA-ART in this population.
Alterations and Significance of Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography–Derived Parameters in Older Patients With Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Zeng Yuli , Liu Peng , Xie An , Che Yilei , Yi Xi , Liu Si , Sun Wenjie , Liu Jianbin , Wang Guiliang
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to investigate changes of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA)–derived parameters in older adults with acute pulmonary embolism (APE).

Methods

According to the pulmonary artery obstruction index (PAOI), patients with APE were divided into the A1 (PAOI ≥30%, n = 57) and A2 (PAOI <30%, n = 40) groups. Participants without APE were placed in group B (n = 170). The left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) parameters among the three groups were compared, and the parameter changes in the 44 patients with APE were analyzed before and after treatment. The correlation between APE severity and the parameters was analyzed using correlation analysis.

Results

The left-to-right diameters (LR) of LA, and LR × anteroposterior diameters (AP) of LA and LV: A1 < A2 < B; LR of LV: A1 < A2, B; AP of LA and LV: A1, A2 < B. After treatment, LR and LR × AP of the LA and LV were significantly increased in the group A1 and LR of the LV and LR × AP of the LA and LV were elevated in the group A2. Acute pulmonary embolism severity was closely associated with LR × AP (r = −0.557) and LR (r = −0.477) of LA.

Conclusions

With an increase in the degree of obstruction, older adults had a smaller LA and LV. Furthermore, the LR and LR × AP values of the LA were significantly decreased. These results contribute to in-time risk stratification.
Management of pediatric renal trauma: Results from the American Association for Surgery and Trauma Multi-Institutional Pediatric Acute Renal Trauma Study
Authors: Hwang Catalina K. , Matta Rano , Woolstenhulme Jonathan , Britt Alexandra K. , Schaeffer Anthony J. , Zakaluzny Scott A. , Kleber Kara Teresa , Sheikali Adam , Flynn-O’Brien Katherine T. , Sandilos Georgianna , Shimonovich Shachar , Fox Nicole , Hess Alexis B. , Zeller Kristen A. , Koberlein George C. , Levy Brittany E. , Draus John M. , Sacks Marla , Chen Catherine , Luo-Owen Xian , Stephens Jacob Robert , Shah Mit , Burks Frank , Moses Rachel A. , Rezaee Michael E. , Vemulakonda Vijaya M. , Halstead N. Valeska , LaCouture Hunter M. , Nabavizadeh Behnam , Copp Hillary , Breyer Benjamin , Schwartz Ian , Feia Kendall , Pagliara Travis , Shi Jennifer , Neuville Paul , Hagedorn Judith C.
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Pediatric renal trauma is rare and lacks sufficient population-specific data to generate evidence-based management guidelines. A nonoperative approach is preferred and has been shown to be safe. However, bleeding risk assessment and management of collecting system injury are not well understood. We introduce the Multi-institutional Pediatric Acute Renal Trauma Study (Mi-PARTS), a retrospective cohort study designed to address these questions. This article describes the demographics and contemporary management of pediatric renal trauma at Level I trauma centers in the United States.

METHODS

Retrospective data were collected at 13 participating Level I trauma centers on pediatric patients presenting with renal trauma between 2010 and 2019. Data were gathered on demographics, injury characteristics, management, and short-term outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used to report on demographics, acute management, and outcomes.

RESULTS

In total, 1,216 cases were included in this study. Of all patients, 67.2% were male, and 93.8% had a blunt injury mechanism. In addition, 29.3% had isolated renal injuries, and 65.6% were high-grade (American Association for the Surgery of Trauma Grades III–V) injuries. The mean Injury Severity Score was 20.5. Most patients were managed nonoperatively (86.4%), and 3.9% had an open surgical intervention, including 2.7% having nephrectomy. Angioembolization was performed in 0.9%. Collecting system intervention was performed in 7.9%. Overall mortality was 3.3% and was only observed in patients with multiple injuries. The rate of avoidable transfer was 28.2%.

CONCLUSION

The management and outcomes of pediatric renal trauma lack data to inform evidence-based guidelines. Nonoperative management of bleeding following renal injury is a well-established practice. Intervention for renal trauma is rare. Our findings reinforce differences from the adult population and highlights opportunities for further investigation. With data made available through Mi-PARTS, we aimed to answer pediatric specific questions, including a pediatric-specific bleeding risk nomogram, and better understanding indications for interventions for collecting system injuries.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level IV.
The Association Between Baseline Vitamin D Level and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With COVID-19
Authors: Chichagi Fatemeh , Hadadi Azar , Kazemian Sina , Pazoki Marzieh , Kafan Samira , Moradi Tabriz Hedieh
Published: November 2023

Our study aimed to understand the link between baseline vitamin D levels at admission and in-hospital clinical outcome and 7-month all-cause mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Sixty-three percent of 636 Iranian patients had insufficient 25(OH)vitamin D baseline levels (<30 ng/mL) on admission. All patients were followed for 7 months on average. Insufficient baseline levels of vitamin D were associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality (P = .022), 7-month all-cause mortality (P = .047), and multiple-organ damage (P = .035) in patients with COVID-19. No association between other in-hospital complications and 25(OH)vitamin D levels was found.
The Impact of Health Technologies on Ostomy Care
Authors: Moulaei Khadijeh , Iranmanesh Elnaz , Ahmadian Leila
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate studies in which health information technology was used to improve ostomy care and management.

METHODS:

Systematic literature review.

SEARCH STRATEGIES:

The review was performed according to PRISMA Guidelines. Three scientific databases, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science, were searched with no time limitation using key words related to information technology and ostomy. The selection of articles and data collection were carried out by 2 reviewers and disagreements were resolved via discussion with a third, independent reviewer.

FINDINGS:

The initial search of electronic databases retrieved 1679 elements; following removal of duplicate records, title and abstract review, and articles read in full for inclusion/exclusion criteria, 10 articles were included in the review. Analysis of findings from studies included in our review addresses technologies used to care for persons living with an ostomy. Elements were divided into 2 categories: (1) sensor-based wearable technologies, which were mostly used to assess the fecal output and fullness of ostomy pouching system, and (2) computer-based, tablet based, and smartphones platforms, which were used for teaching and learning. The most significant outcomes were increasing patients' knowledge and awareness of ostomy, enhancing patient's participation in self-care processes, and improving self-efficacy levels.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE:

We found limited research regarding the effectiveness of technology-based interventions on the management of ostomy patients. Findings of this systematic review suggest that the application of technologies has created a positive effect on the management of an ostomy, provided opportunities for enhancing self-efficacy, self-care, and self-management. The results of this study can be a basis for designing efficient technology-based systems for the management of ostomy.
Postpartum hemorrhage prevention and management in women in an inpatient postpartum unit: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Fatherree Debi Lane , Palokas Michelle
Published: November 2023

Introduction and objectives:

Ninety percent of maternal deaths are attributed to postpartum hemorrhage, with 50% being preventable. Annually, University of Mississippi Medical Center staff have more than 20,000 obstetrical encounters and deliver thousands of infants, with ∼75% being high-risk. The mother/baby unit, 3 Wiser, experienced two postpartum hemorrhages in August 2022. Post-event debriefings revealed opportunities for improvement. This project aimed to promote evidence-based practices regarding the prevention and management of postpartum hemorrhage in 3 Wiser.

Methods:

The project was guided by the JBI Model of Evidence-Based Healthcare and used the JBI Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System together with the Getting Research into Practice audit and feedback strategy. Four evidence-based practices were selected as audit criteria. After baseline audits were conducted, strategies to improve compliance with evidence-based practices were implemented. Finally, a follow-up audit was conducted, and the results of both audits were compared.

Results:

The baseline audits revealed 84% average compliance with the four evidence-based practices. Strategies to improve compliance included a simulation for nursing staff with a review of postpartum hemorrhage policies and skills. The post-implementation audit revealed 98% average compliance with the four evidence-based practices, a 14% increase from the baseline audit.

Conclusions:

This evidence implementation project utilized a clinical audit process, which led to improvements in practice related to the prevention and management of postpartum hemorrhage in the inpatient postpartum unit.
Exaggerated mandibles are correlated with enhanced foraging efficacy in male Auckland tree wētā
Authors: Farnworth Bridgette , Purdie Samuel , Wehi Priscilla M. , Painting Christina J.
Published: November 2023

Sexual selection has driven the evolution of weaponry for males to fight rivals to gain access to females. Although weapons are predicted to increase males' reproductive success, they are also expected to incur costs and may impair functional activities, including foraging. Using feeding assays, we tested whether the enlarged mandibles of Auckland tree wētā (
Hemideina thoracica
) impact feeding activity (the total volume of biomass consumed, bite rate, and number of foraging visits) and foraging behaviour (time spent moving, feeding, or stationary). We predicted that increased head capsule size in male wētā would hinder their foraging efficacy. However, we found that wētā with longer heads fed at a faster rate and spent less time foraging than wētā with smaller heads, regardless of sex. Contrary to expectations that weapons impede functional activities, our results demonstrate that exaggerated traits can improve feeding performance and may offer benefits other than increased mating success.
Spatio-temporal surveillance and early detection of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Cavallaro Massimo , Dyson Louise , Tildesley Michael J. , Todkill Dan , Keeling Matt J.
Published: November 2023

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has been characterized by the repeated emergence of genetically distinct virus variants of increased transmissibility and immune evasion compared to pre-existing lineages. In many countries, their containment required the intervention of public health authorities and the imposition of control measures. While the primary role of testing is to identify infection, target treatment, and limit spread (through isolation and contact tracing), a secondary benefit is in terms of surveillance and the early detection of new variants. Here we study the spatial invasion and early spread of the Alpha, Delta and Omicron (BA.1 and BA.2) variants in England from September 2020 to February 2022 using the random neighbourhood covering (RaNCover) method. This is a statistical technique for the detection of aberrations in spatial point processes, which we tailored here to community PCR (polymerase-chain-reaction) test data where the TaqPath kit provides a proxy measure of the switch between variants. Retrospectively, RaNCover detected the earliest signals associated with the four novel variants that led to large infection waves in England. With suitable data our method therefore has the potential to rapidly detect outbreaks of future SARS-CoV-2 variants, thus helping to inform targeted public health interventions.
The self-oscillation paradox in the flight motor ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Pons Arion
Published: November 2023

Tiny flying insects, such asDrosophila melanogaster, fly by flapping their wings at frequencies faster than their brains are able to process. To do so, they rely on self-oscillation: dynamic instability, leading to emergent oscillation, arising from muscle stretch-activation. Many questions concerning this vital natural instability remain open. Does flight motor self-oscillation necessarily lead to resonance—a state optimal in efficiency and/or performance? If so, what state? And is self-oscillation even guaranteed in a motor driven by stretch-activated muscle, or are there limiting conditions? In this work, we use data-driven models of wingbeat and muscle behaviour to answer these questions. Developing and leveraging novel analysis techniques, including symbolic computation, we establish a fundamental condition for motor self-oscillation common to a wide range of motor models. Remarkably,D. melanogasterflight apparently defies this condition: a paradox of motor operation. We explore potential resolutions to this paradox, and, within its confines, establish that theD. melanogasterflight motor is probably not resonant with respect to exoskeletal elasticity: instead, the muscular elasticity plays a dominant role. Contrary to common supposition, the stiffness of stretch-activated muscle is an obstacle to, rather than an enabler of, the operation of theD. melanogasterflight motor.
Evolutionary rescue on genotypic fitness landscapes
Authors: Wahl L. M. , Campos Paulo R. A.
Published: November 2023

Populations facing adverse environments, novel pathogens or invasive competitors may be destined to extinction if they are unable to adapt rapidly. Quantitative predictions of the probability of survival through adaptation, evolutionary rescue, have been previously developed for one of the most natural and well-studied mappings from an organism’s traits to its fitness, Fisher’s geometric model (FGM). While FGM assumes that all possible trait values are accessible via mutation, in many applications only a finite set of rescue mutations will be available, such as mutations conferring resistance to a parasite, predator or toxin. We predict the probability of evolutionary rescue, via de novo mutation, when this underlying genetic structure is included. We find that rescue probability is always reduced when its genetic basis is taken into account. Unlike other known features of the genotypic FGM, however, the probability of rescue increases monotonically with the number of available mutations and approaches the behaviour of the classical FGM as the number of available mutations approaches infinity.
Rapid flapping and fibre-reinforced membrane wings are key to high-performance bat flight
Authors: Lauber Marin , Weymouth Gabriel D. , Limbert Georges
Published: November 2023

Bats fly using significantly different wing motions from other fliers, stemming from the complex interplay of their membrane wings’ motion and structural properties. Biological studies show that many bats fly at Strouhal numbers, the ratio of flapping to flight speed, 50–150% above the range typically associated with optimal locomotion. We use high-resolution fluid–structure interaction simulations of a bat wing to independently study the role of kinematics and material/structural properties in aerodynamic performance and show that peak propulsive and lift efficiencies for a bat-like wing motion require flapping 66% faster than for a symmetric motion, agreeing with the increased flapping frequency observed in zoological studies. In addition, we find that reduced membrane stiffness is associated with improved propulsive efficiency until the membrane flutters, but that incorporating microstructural anisotropy arising from biological fibre reinforcement enables a tenfold reduction of the flutter energy while maintaining high aerodynamic efficiency. Our results indicate that animals with specialized flapping motions may have correspondingly specialized flapping speeds, in contrast to arguments for a universally efficient Strouhal range. Additionally, our study demonstrates the significant role that the microstructural constitutive properties of the membrane wing of a bat can have in its propulsive performance.
Spatio-temporal patterns of ovarian development and
VgR
gene silencing reduced fecundity in parthenogenetic
Artemia
Authors: Duan Hu , Shao Xuanxuan , Liu Wei , Xiang Jianhai , Pan Namin , Wang Xuehui , Du Guoru , Li Ying , Zhou Jiaping , Sui Liying
Published: November 2023

The halophilic zooplankton brine shrimp
Artemia
has been used as an experimental animal in multidisciplinary studies. However, the reproductive patterns and its regulatory mechanisms in
Artemia
remain unclear. In this study, the ovarian development process of parthenogenetic
Artemia
(
A. parthenogenetica
) was divided into five stages, and oogenesis or egg formation was identified in six phases. The oogenesis mode was assumed to be polytrophic. We also traced the dynamic translocation of candidate germline stem cells (cGSCs) using EdU labelling and elucidated several key cytological events in oogenesis through haematoxylin and eosin staining and fluorescence imaging. Distinguished from the ovary structure of insects and crustaceans,
Artemia
germarium originated from ovariole buds and are located at the base of the ovarioles. RNA-seq based on five stages of ovarian development identified 2657 upregulated genes related to reproduction by pair-to-pair comparison.
Gbb
,
Dpp
,
piwi
,
vasa
,
nanos
,
VgA
and
VgR
genes associated with cGSCs recognition and reproductive development were screened and verified using qPCR. Silencing of the
VgR
gene in
A. parthenogenetica
(
Ap-VgR
) at ovarian development Stage II led to a low level of gene expression (less than 10%) within 5 days, which resulted in variations in oogenesis-related gene expression and significantly inhibited vitellogenesis, impeded oocyte maturation, and eventually decreased the number of offspring. In conclusion, we have illustrated the patterns of ovarian development, outlined the key spatio-temporal features of oogenesis and identified the negative impacts of VgR gene knockdown on oogenesis using
A. parthenogenetica
as an experimental animal. The findings of this study also lay a foundation for the further study of reproductive biology of invertebrates.
Towards understanding centriole elimination
Authors: Kalbfuss Nils , Gönczy Pierre
Published: November 2023

Centrioles are microtubule-based structures crucial for forming flagella, cilia and centrosomes. Through these roles, centrioles are critical notably for proper cell motility, signalling and division. Recent years have advanced significantly our understanding of the mechanisms governing centriole assembly and architecture. Although centrioles are typically very stable organelles, persisting over many cell cycles, they can also be eliminated in some cases. Here, we review instances of centriole elimination in a range of species and cell types. Moreover, we discuss potential mechanisms that enable the switch from a stable organelle to a vanishing one. Further work is expected to provide novel insights into centriole elimination mechanisms in health and disease, thereby also enabling scientists to readily manipulate organelle fate.
Novel and flexible parameter estimation methods for data-consistent inversion in mechanistic modelling
Authors: Rumbell Timothy , Parikh Jaimit , Kozloski James , Gurev Viatcheslav
Published: November 2023

Predictions for physical systems often rely upon knowledge acquired from ensembles of entities, e.g. ensembles of cells in biological sciences. For qualitative and quantitative analysis, these ensembles are simulated with parametric families of mechanistic models (MMs). Two classes of methodologies, based on Bayesian inference and population of models, currently prevail in parameter estimation for physical systems. However, in Bayesian analysis, uninformative priors for MM parameters introduce undesirable bias. Here, we propose how to infer parameters within the framework of stochastic inverse problems (SIPs), also termed data-consistent inversion, wherein the prior targets only uncertainties that arise due to MM non-invertibility. To demonstrate, we introduce new methods to solve SIPs based on rejection sampling, Markov chain Monte Carlo, and generative adversarial networks (GANs). In addition, to overcome limitations of SIPs, we reformulate SIPs based on constrained optimization and present a novel GAN to solve the constrained optimization problem.
Human-centred artificial intelligence for mobile health sensing: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Dang Ting , Spathis Dimitris , Ghosh Abhirup , Mascolo Cecilia
Published: November 2023

Advances in wearable sensing and mobile computing have enabled the collection of health and well-being data outside of traditional laboratory and hospital settings, paving the way for a new era of mobile health. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant strides in various domains, demonstrating its potential to revolutionize healthcare. Devices can now diagnose diseases, predict heart irregularities and unlock the full potential of human cognition. However, the application of machine learning (ML) to mobile health sensing poses unique challenges due to noisy sensor measurements, high-dimensional data, sparse and irregular time series, heterogeneity in data, privacy concerns and resource constraints. Despite the recognition of the value of mobile sensing, leveraging these datasets has lagged behind other areas of ML. Furthermore, obtaining quality annotations and ground truth for such data is often expensive or impractical. While recent large-scale longitudinal studies have shown promise in leveraging wearable sensor data for health monitoring and prediction, they also introduce new challenges for data modelling. This paper explores the challenges and opportunities of human-centred AI for mobile health, focusing on key sensing modalities such as audio, location and activity tracking. We discuss the limitations of current approaches and propose potential solutions.
Mitigating bycatch in Mediterranean trammel net fisheries using species-specific gear modifications
Authors: Ganias Kostas , Karatza Alexandra , Charitonidou Katerina , Lachouvaris Dimitrios
Published: November 2023

Small-scale fisheries (SSF) use static gear which are thought to interact with marine ecosystems more benignly than towed gear. Despite this, trammel nets, one of the most extensively used type of fishing gear in the Mediterranean SSF, generate large amounts of discards, which can account for 25% or more of the captured biomass. Discarded organisms may include endangered or threatened species such as elasmobranchs, as well as non-commercial invertebrates that damage fishing gear or cause disentanglement delays. We evaluated various trammel-net gear modifications, including (i) the use of a guarding net attached to the footrope, (ii) increasing the length of the rigging twine between the footrope and the netting panel, and (iii) decreasing the mesh size of the outer panels. The last two modifications were successful in lowering captures of the marbled electric ray
Torpedo marmorata
, which is commonly discarded in the study area. Both sorts of modifications are relatively simple, their manufacturing does not represent an added cost to implement, and most importantly they do not negatively affect the catch of the target species. The current study shows that prior evaluation of the discard profile of distinct métiers is essential to accomplish species-specific gear modifications and underlines the importance of collaboration among scientists, fishers and gear manufacturers.
An epistemology for democratic citizen science
Authors: Jaeger Johannes , Masselot Camille , Greshake Tzovaras Bastian , Senabre Hidalgo Enric , Haklay Mordechai (Muki) , Santolini Marc
Published: November 2023

More than ever, humanity relies on robust scientific knowledge of the world and our place within it. Unfortunately, our contemporary view of science is still suffused with outdated ideas about scientific knowledge production based on a naive kind of realism. These ideas persist among members of the public and scientists alike. They contribute to an ultra-competitive system of academic research, which sacrifices long-term productivity through an excessive obsession with short-term efficiency. Efforts to diversify this system come from a movement called democratic citizen science, which can serve as a model for scientific inquiry in general. Democratic citizen science requires an alternative theory of knowledge with a focus on the role that diversity plays in the process of discovery. Here, we present such an epistemology, based on three central philosophical pillars: perspectival realism, a naturalistic process-based epistemology, and deliberative social practices. They broaden our focus from immediate research outcomes towards cognitive and social processes which facilitate sustainable long-term productivity and scientific innovation. This marks a shift from an industrial to an ecological vision of how scientific research should be done, and how it should be assessed. At the core of this vision are research communities that are diverse, representative, and democratic.
Anisotropy distorts the spreading of a fixed volume porous gravity current
Authors: Benham Graham P.
Published: November 2023

We consider the release and subsequent gravity-driven spreading of a dense finite volume of fluid in an anisotropic porous medium bounded by an impermeable substrate. When the permeability in the vertical direction is much smaller than in the horizontal direction, as is the case in many real geological reservoirs, this restricts the spread of the current to a very thin layer near the impermeable base. Using a combination of asymptotic analysis and finite difference computations of Darcy flow, we show that there exist two distinct flow regimes. At early times, the bulk of the current descends slowly and uniformly, injecting fluid into thin finger-like regions near the base. At much later times, the current transitions to the classical gravity-driven solution and continues to spread with a self-similar shape. One interesting consequence is that the swept volume of the current grows differently depending on the anisotropy of the medium. This has important consequences for managing contaminant spills, where it is important to minimize the contacted volume of the aquifer, or during geological

CO

2

sequestration where a larger contacted volume results in more

CO

2

being stored.
A predictive model of UV-A-riboflavin crosslinking treatment on porcine corneas
Authors: Bonfanti Alessandra , Pandolfi Anna
Published: November 2023

The crosslinking technique (CXL) is an effective low-risk therapeutic treatment of keratoconus and other ectatic disorders of the human cornea. The effect of corneal CXL is to increase the stiffness of the stroma to prevent the progression of the cornea distortion. Several clinical and experimental studies have shown that the stiffening effects predominantly localize on the anterior portion of the stroma and that the in-depth stiffening distribution is highly dependent on the duration of treatment. Yet, how the stiffening effects distribute through the cornea thickness as a function of the treatment duration is an open question. Here, we propose an analytical model of the stiffening profile due to CXL treatment as a function of the irradiation time. We consider linear and nonlinear variations of the crosslinking effects across the thickness and implement them into a finite element model of the porcine cornea. We present a time-dependent in-depth stiffening profile that allows us to predict the post-operative cornea response to physiological intraocular pressure for different irradiation times. We anticipate that this predictive model will support the development of patient specific three-dimensional models that will allow clinicians to design customized CXL treatment, thus enhancing treatment outcomes.
Shear and flexural deformations in flextegrity segmental beams inspired by Leonardo’s triangular masonry construction
Authors: Boni Claudio , Royer-Carfagni Gianni
Published: November 2023

In
Tabula XCI verso
of Codex Atlanticus, Leonardo da Vinci presents an ingenious masonry structure composed of segments in the shape of inverted triangles. These are assembled by contact in a chain to obtain a lintel or jack arch, where they are pressed together by the thrust of the end constraints. Drawing inspiration from Leonardo’s sketches, we show that, by connecting the segments in pair through elastic tendons, this system represents a new type of flextegrity beam. In a classical flextegrity, the contact surfaces of the segments are curved conjugate profiles, imposing a pure rolling motion along properly designed pitch lines: the consequent elongation of the tendon dictates the constitutive response as a function of the relative rotation of the segments. Here, the contact is through plane surfaces, so that the kinematics, besides the relative rotation, is characterized by segmental shearing. This system is theoretically analysed and a continuum model is derived as the length of the segments becomes small. Comparisons with experiments on three-dimensional-printed prototypes confirm the theoretical findings and highlight the possible competition between rotational and sliding types of deformation. Apart from the historical value, this type of construction can be used in innovative structures or metamaterials.
Equivalent in-plane elastic moduli of honeycomb materials under hypergravity conditions
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Guannan , Lü Chaofeng
Published: November 2023

Honeycomb materials frequently encounter hypergravity conditions in both aerospace and biological contexts during phases such as launch, reentry or under centrifugal motion. The significant body force engendered by hypergravity induces alterations in the microstructure of honeycomb materials, which in turn, influences their macroscopic mechanical behaviour. Leveraging the stiffness of the beam element as a pivotal variable, we successfully derived the equivalent moduli of the honeycomb material under hypergravity conditions. We further proposed the concept of a ‘hypergravity factor’, elucidating that the density of the base material, the dimensions of honeycomb cells and the magnitude of the hypergravity contribute to amplifying hypergravity effects. The results, numerically validated through finite-element simulations, could be reduced to the case that neglects body force. The critical buckling load of the honeycomb material under hypergravity can be assessed by setting the derived moduli to zero. In the presence of hypergravity, a honeycomb material undergoes a transition into a gradient material along the hypergravity direction, thereby exacerbating anisotropy. This phenomenon is theoretically expected to occur in virtually all porous materials. The analytical framework adopted, which employs beam stiffness as an intermediary variable, facilitates the extension of these results to honeycomb materials which encompass beam elements with functional gradients or varying cross-sectional morphologies.
Sexes in sync: phenotypic plasticity, sexual selection and phenological synchrony between the sexes in a wild hibernator
Authors: Thompson Megan J. , Dobson F. Stephen , Coltman David W. , Murie Jan O. , Raveh Shirley , Lane Jeffrey E.
Published: November 2023

Desynchrony of phenological responses to climate change is a major concern for ecological communities. Potential uncoupling between one of the most fundamental divisions within populations, males and females, has not been well studied. To address this gap, we examined sex-specific plasticity in hibernation phenology in two populations of Columbian ground squirrels (
Urocitellus columbianus
). We find that both sexes display similar phenological plasticity to spring snowmelt dates in their timing of torpor termination and behavioural emergence from hibernation. As a result of this plasticity, the degree of protandry (i.e. males' emergences from hibernation preceding those of females) did not change significantly over the 27-year study. Earlier male behavioural emergence, relative to females, improved the likelihood of securing a breeding territory and increased annual reproductive success. Sexual selection favouring earlier male emergence from hibernation may maintain protandry in this population, but did not contribute to further advances in male phenology. Together, our results provide evidence that the sexes should remain synchronized, at least in response to the weather variation investigated here, and further support the role of sexual selection in the evolution of protandry in sexually reproducing organisms.
Foraging and the importance of knowledge in Pemba, Tanzania: implications for childhood evolution
Authors: Pretelli Ilaria , Borgerhoff Mulder Monique , Makame Khamis Bakar , McElreath Richard
Published: November 2023

Childhood is a period of life unique to humans. Childhood may have evolved through the need to acquire knowledge and subsistence skills. In an effort to understand the functional significance of childhood, previous research examined increases with age in returns to foraging across food resources. Such increases could be due to changes in knowledge, or other factors such as body size or strength. Here, we attempt to unpack these age-related changes. First, we estimate age-specific foraging returns for two resources. We then develop nonlinear structural equation models to evaluate the relative importance of ecological knowledge, grip strength and height in a population of part-time children foragers on Pemba island, Tanzania. We use anthropometric measures (height, strength,
n
= 250), estimates of ecological knowledge (
n
= 93) and behavioural observations for 63 individuals across 370 foraging trips. We find slower increases in foraging returns with age for trap hunting than for shellfish collection. We do not detect any effect of individual knowledge on foraging returns, potentially linked to information sharing within foraging parties. Producing accurate estimates of the distinct contribution of specific traits to an individual’s foraging performance constitutes a key step in evaluating different hypotheses for the emergence of childhood.
Experimental assessment of cross-species transmission in a natural multihost–multivector–multipathogen community
Authors: Fenton Andy , Withenshaw Susan M. , Devevey Godefroy , Morris Alexandra , Erazo Diana , Pedersen Amy B.
Published: November 2023

Vector-borne pathogens, many of which cause major suffering worldwide, often circulate in diverse wildlife communities comprising multiple reservoir host and/or vector species. However, the complexities of these systems make it challenging to determine the contributions these different species make to transmission. We experimentally manipulated transmission within a natural multihost–multipathogen–multivector system, by blocking flea-borne pathogen transmission from either of two co-occurring host species (bank voles and wood mice). Through genetic analysis of the resulting infections in the hosts and vectors, we show that both host species likely act together to maintain the overall flea community, but cross-species pathogen transmission is relatively rare—most pathogens were predominantly found in only one host species, and there were few cases where targeted treatment affected pathogens in the other host species. However, we do provide experimental evidence of some reservoir–spillover dynamics whereby reductions of some infections in one host species are achieved by blocking transmission from the other host species. Overall, despite the apparent complexity of such systems, we show there can be ‘covert simplicity’, whereby pathogen transmission is primarily dominated by single host species, potentially facilitating the targeting of key hosts for control, even in diverse ecological communities.
Adaptive and non-adaptive convergent evolution in feather reflectance of California Channel Islands songbirds
Authors: Porter Cody K. , Romero Faye G. , Adams Dean C. , Bowie Rauri C. K. , Riddell Eric A.
Published: November 2023

Convergent evolution is widely regarded as a signature of adaptation. However, testing the adaptive consequences of convergent phenotypes is challenging, making it difficult to exclude non-adaptive explanations for convergence. Here, we combined feather reflectance spectra and phenotypic trajectory analyses with visual and thermoregulatory modelling to test the adaptive significance of dark plumage in songbirds of the California Channel Islands. By evolving dark dorsal plumage, island birds are generally less conspicuous to visual-hunting raptors in the island environment than mainland birds. Dark dorsal plumage also reduces the energetic demands associated with maintaining homeothermy in the cool island climate. We also found an unexpected pattern of convergence, wherein the most divergent island populations evolved greater reflectance of near-infrared radiation. However, our heat flux models indicate that elevated near-infrared reflectance is not adaptive. Analysis of feather microstructure suggests that mainland-island differences are related to coloration of feather barbs and barbules rather than their structure. Our results indicate that adaptive and non-adaptive mechanisms interact to drive plumage evolution in this system. This study sheds light on the mechanisms driving the association between dark colour and wet, cold environments across the tree of life, especially in island birds.
Methods for Implementing Integrated Step-Selection Functions with Incomplete Data
Authors: Hofmann David D. , Cozzi Gabriele , Fieberg John
Published: November 2023

Integrated step-selection analyses (iSSAs) are versatile and powerful frameworks for studying habitat and movement preferences of tracked animals. iSSAs utilize integrated step-selection functions (iSSFs) to model movements in discrete time, and thus, require animal location data that are regularly spaced in time. However, many realworld datasets are incomplete due to tracking devices failing to locate an individual at one or more scheduled times, leading to slight irregularities in the duration between consecutive animal locations. To address this issue, researchers typically only consider bursts of regular data (i.e., sequences of locations that are equally spaced in time), thereby reducing the number of observations used to model movement and habitat selection. We reassess this practice and explore four alternative approaches that account for temporal irregularity resulting from missing data. Using a simulation study, we compare these alternatives to a baseline approach where temporal irregularity is ignored and demonstrate the potential improvements in model performance that can be gained by leveraging these additional data.
Development of Portable Electronic Health Record Based Algorithms to Identify Individuals with Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Breeyear Joseph H. , Mitchell Sabrina L. , Nealon Cari L. , Hellwege Jacklyn N. , Charest Brian , Khakharia Anjali , Halladay Christopher W. , Yang Janine , Garriga Gustavo A. , Wilson Otis D. , Basnet Til B. , Hung Adriana M. , Reaven Peter D. , Meigs James B , Rhee Mary K , Sun Yang , Lynch Mary G. , Sobrin Lucia , Brantley Milam A. , Sun Yan V. , Wilson Peter W. , Iyengar Sudha K. , Peachey Neal S. , Phillips Lawrence S. , Edwards Todd L. , Giri Ayush
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To develop, validate and implement algorithms to identify diabetic retinopathy (DR) cases and controls from electronic health care records (EHR)s.Methods: We developed and validated EHR-based algorithms to identify DR cases and individuals with type I or II diabetes without DR (controls) in three independent EHR systems: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Synthetic Derivative (VUMC), the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System (VANEOHS), and Massachusetts General Brigham (MGB). Cases were required to meet one of three criteria: 1) two or more dates with any DR ICD-9/10 code documented in the EHR, or 2) at least one affirmative health-factor or EPIC code for DR along with an ICD9/10 code for DR on a different day, or 3) at least one ICD-9/10 code for any DR occurring within 24 hours of an ophthalmology exam. Criteria for controls included affirmative evidence for diabetes as well as an ophthalmology exam.

Results

The algorithms, developed and evaluated in VUMC through manual chart review, resulted in a positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.93 for cases and negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.97 for controls. Implementation of algorithms yielded similar metrics in VANEOHS (PPV=0.94; NPV=0.86) and lower in MGB (PPV=0.84; NPV=0.76). In comparison, use of DR definition as implemented in Phenome-wide association study (PheWAS) in VUMC, yielded similar PPV (0.92) but substantially reduced NPV (0.48). Implementation of the algorithms to the Million Veteran Program identified over 62,000 DR cases with genetic data including 14,549 African Americans and 6,209 Hispanics with DR.

Conclusions/Discussion

We demonstrate the robustness of the algorithms at three separate health-care centers, with a minimum PPV of 0.84 and substantially improved NPV than existing high-throughput methods. We strongly encourage independent validation and incorporation of features unique to each EHR to enhance algorithm performance for DR cases and controls.