bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The appearance of new accessory pathway after the Cone procedure
Authors: Nguyen Dinh Son Ngoc , Chang Shih‐Lin , Weng Chi‐Jen , Wu Fei‐Yi , Chen Shih‐Ann
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Acquired Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome can occur after congenital heart disease (CHD) surgery.

Methods and Results

A 27‐year‐old male with Ebstein's anomaly and manifest WPW syndrome received catheter ablation twice. The first electrophysiology study (EPS) induced orthodromic atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia and successfully eliminated the posteroseptal accessory pathway (AP). Six months after the Cone procedure, the patient suffered from palpitation. The second EPS was performed and abolished the right lateral AP.

Conclusion

The appearance of a new AP after the reconstruction of CHD is a rare finding and should raise suspicion of an acquired AP connection.
A review of bacterial disease outbreaks in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) reported from 2010 to 2022
Authors: Duman Muhammed , Altun Soner , Saticioglu Izzet Burcin , Romalde Jesús L.
Published: November 2023

Outbreaks of bacterial infections in aquaculture have emerged as significant threats to the sustainable production of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) worldwide. Understanding the dynamics of these outbreaks and the bacteria involved is crucial for implementing effective management strategies. This comprehensive review presents an update on outbreaks of bacteria isolated from rainbow trout reported between 2010 and 2022. A systematic literature survey was conducted to identify relevant studies reporting bacterial outbreaks in rainbow trout during the specified time frame. More than 150 published studies in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and relevant databases met the inclusion criteria, encompassing diverse geographical regions and aquaculture systems. The main bacterial pathogens implicated in the outbreaks belong to both gram‐negative, namely Chryseobacterium, Citrobacter, Deefgea Flavobacterium, Janthinobacterium, Plesiomonas, Pseudomonas, Shewanella, and gram‐positive genera, including Lactococcus and Weissella, and comprise 36 new emerging species that are presented by means of pathogenicity and disturbance worldwide. We highlight the main characteristics of species to shed light on potential challenges in treatment strategies. Moreover, we investigate the role of various risk factors in the outbreaks, such as environmental conditions, fish density, water quality, and stressors that potentially cause outbreaks of these species. Insights into the temporal and spatial patterns of bacterial outbreaks in rainbow trout aquaculture are provided. Furthermore, the implications of these findings for developing sustainable and targeted disease prevention and control measures are discussed. The presented study serves as a comprehensive update on the state of bacterial outbreaks in rainbow trout aquaculture, emphasizing the importance of continued surveillance and research to sustain the health and productivity of this economically valuable species.
Functional fitness of adults with Down syndrome: a longitudinal study
Authors: Boer P. H.
Published: November 2023

Background

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are born with and develop many health‐related complications. The purpose of this study was to determine the longitudinal functional fitness profile of adults with DS.

Methods

The functional fitness of adults with DS was tested twice, 12 years apart. Sixty‐six adults with DS were tested for body mass, stature and 10 functional fitness tests. Data were categorised according to gender and age‐specific categories.

Results

Static balance, shoulder flexibility, trunk strength and aerobic capacity deteriorated significantly with medium to large effect sizes for both DS men and women (most age categories). For women, dynamic balance deteriorated significantly, and for men, leg‐ and upper body‐strength deteriorated significantly.

Conclusions

Practitioners working in the field of adapted physical activity should take cognisance of the functional fitness ageing profile of adults with DS and timeously develop habitual physical activity interventions to reduce the effect of accelerated ageing experienced by this population.
Is thoracolumbar fascia shear‐wave modulus affected by active and passive knee flexion?
Authors: Kellis Eleftherios , Kekelekis Afxentios , Drakonaki Eleni E.
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of passive and active knee flexion efforts on the stiffness of the thoracolumbar (TLF), semitendinosus (STF), and semimembranosus fascia (SMF). Fourteen young healthy males participated in this study. Using ultrasound shear‐wave elastography, fascia elastic modulus was measured at rest (passive condition) and during submaximal isometric knee flexion efforts (active condition) with the hip at neutral position and the knee flexed at 0°, 45°, and 90°. Analysis of variance designs indicated that when the knee was passively extended from 90° to 0°, shear modulus of the TLF, SMF, and STF increased significantly (p < 0.05). Similarly, active knee flexion contractions caused a significant increase in TLF, SMF, and STF shear modulus (p < 0.001). Compared to hamstring fascia, the TLF showed greater thickness but a lower shear modulus (p < 0.05) while STF modulus was greater compared that to SMF during active contraction (p < 0.05). These results indicate that exercising the hamstring muscles can remotely influence the stiffness of the fascia which surrounds the lumbar area.
Search and Competition Under Product Quality Uncertainty*
Authors: Chen Yongmin
Published: November 2023

I review models of consumer search and competition when product quality is uncertain and differs across firms. Although firms are vertically—and possibly also horizontally—differentiated, an appropriate symmetric price equilibrium with optimal consumer search can be neatly characterized. I propose a “random‐quality” framework that unifies these models and discuss their insights on the operation of consumer search markets, focusing on (i) online advertising and search through platforms, (ii) the welfare effects of entry in search markets, and (iii) the role of quality observability under search frictions. I suggest directions for further research on these and related topics.
Optoelectronic control of cardiac rhythm: Toward shock‐free ambulatory cardioversion of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Portero Vincent , Deng Shanliang , Boink Gerard J. J. , Zhang Guo Qi , de Vries Antoine , Pijnappels Daniël A.
Published: November 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia, progressive in nature, and known to have a negative impact on mortality, morbidity, and quality of life. Patients requiring acute termination of AF to restore sinus rhythm are subjected to electrical cardioversion, which requires sedation and therefore hospitalization due to pain resulting from the electrical shocks. However, considering the progressive nature of AF and its detrimental effects, there is a clear need for acute out‐of‐hospital (i.e., ambulatory) cardioversion of AF. In the search for shock‐free cardioversion methods to realize such ambulatory therapy, a method referred to as optogenetics has been put forward. Optogenetics enables optical control over the electrical activity of cardiomyocytes by targeted expression of light‐activated ion channels or pumps and may therefore serve as a means for cardioversion. First proof‐of‐principle for such light‐induced cardioversion came from in vitro studies, proving optogenetic AF termination to be very effective. Later, these results were confirmed in various rodent models of AF using different transgenes, illumination methods, and protocols, whereas computational studies in the human heart provided additional translational insight. Based on these results and fueled by recent advances in molecular biology, gene therapy, and optoelectronic engineering, a basis is now being formed to explore clinical translations of optoelectronic control of cardiac rhythm. In this review, we discuss the current literature regarding optogenetic cardioversion of AF to restore normal rhythm in a shock‐free manner. Moreover, key translational steps will be discussed, both from a biological and technological point of view, to outline a path toward realizing acute shock‐free ambulatory termination of AF.
Religious Commitment and Body Appreciation: Exploring the Mediating Role of Positive Orientation and Gratitude in a Polish Sample
Authors: Razmus Magdalena , Razmus Wiktor , Zarzycka Beata
Published: November 2023

Although religiosity has been recognized as a predictor of health and well‐being, links between religiosity and body image have not been extensively examined. The objective of our study was to explore possible pathways through which religious commitment might be associated with body appreciation in a Polish sample. Participants (N = 262) completed measures of religious commitment, positive orientation, gratitude, and body appreciation. Results demonstrated that religious commitment was positively related to body appreciation. Moreover, both positive orientation and gratitude mediated this relationship. A higher level of religious commitment was associated with a higher level of positive orientation and gratitude that, in turn, was related to a greater body appreciation. We concluded that religious commitment may be related to people's loving and respectful relationship with their bodies.
‘I was uncertain, but I was acting on it’: A longitudinal qualitative study of medical students' responses to uncertainty
Authors: Stephens Georgina C. , Sarkar Mahbub , Lazarus Michelle D.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Uncertainty is ubiquitous within medical practice. Accordingly, how individuals respond to uncertainty, termed uncertainty tolerance (UT), is increasingly considered a medical graduate competency. Despite this, aspects of the UT construct are debated, which may relate to research focused on measuring UT, rather than understanding students' experiences. Therefore, we asked (1) how do medical students describe their responses to uncertainty, (2) how (if at all) do described responses change over time and (3) how do described responses contribute to understanding the UT construct.

Methods

Engaging an interpretivist worldview, we conducted a longitudinal qualitative study throughout 2020 with 41 clinical medical students at an Australian medical school. Participants completed reflective diary entries across six in‐semester time‐points (n = 41, 40, 39, 38, 37 and 35) and semi‐structured interviews at the end of both semesters (n = 20 per semester). We analysed data using framework analysis.

Results

Although participants communicated accepting health care uncertainties, described cognitive appraisals of uncertainty ranged from threatening (e.g. challenging credibility) to opportunistic (e.g. for learning and growth). Emotions in response to uncertainty were predominately described in negative terms, including worry and anxiety. Participants described a range of maladaptive and adaptive behavioural responses, including avoiding versus actively engaging with uncertainty. Despite describing typically negative emotions across time, participants' cognitive and behavioural response descriptions shifted from self‐doubt and avoidance, towards acceptance of, and engagement despite uncertainty.

Conclusions

Students' descriptions of responses to uncertainty suggest existing UT conceptualisations may not holistically reflect medical students' experiences of what it means to be uncertainty ‘tolerant’, especially pertaining to conceptualisations of ‘tolerance’ centred on emotions (e.g. stress) rather than how uncertainty is ultimately managed. Extending from this study, the field could consider redefining characteristics of uncertainty ‘tolerance’ to focus on adaptive cognitive and behavioural responses, rather than emotional responses as key indicators of ‘tolerance’.
Multimodal investigations of emotional face processing and social trait judgment of faces
Authors: Yu Hongbo , Lin Chujun , Sun Sai , Cao Runnan , Kar Kohitij , Wang Shuo
Published: November 2023

Faces are among the most important visual stimuli that humans perceive in everyday life. While extensive literature has examined emotional processing and social evaluations of faces, most studies have examined either topic using unimodal approaches. In this review, we promote the use of multimodal cognitive neuroscience approaches to study these processes, using two lines of research as examples: ambiguity in facial expressions of emotion and social trait judgment of faces. In the first set of studies, we identified an event‐related potential that signals emotion ambiguity using electroencephalography and we found convergent neural responses to emotion ambiguity using functional neuroimaging and single‐neuron recordings. In the second set of studies, we discuss how different neuroimaging and personality‐dimensional approaches together provide new insights into social trait judgments of faces. In both sets of studies, we provide an in‐depth comparison between neurotypicals and people with autism spectrum disorder. We offer a computational account for the behavioral and neural markers of the different facial processing between the two groups. Finally, we suggest new practices for studying the emotional processing and social evaluations of faces. All data discussed in the case studies of this review are publicly available.
Low‐dose TNF‐α promotes angiogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma cells via TNFR2/Akt/mTOR axis
Authors: Li Shutong , Liu Wenchuan , Liu Junze , Yang Zongcheng , Zhang Liguo , Nie Fujiao , Yang Pishan , Guo Hongmei , Yang Chengzhe
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To assess the role of TNF‐α/TNFR2 axis on promoting angiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cells and uncover the underlying mechanisms.

Materials and Methods

The expression of TNFR2 and CD31 in OSCC tissues was examined; gene expression relationship between TNF‐α/TNFR2 and angiogenic markers or signaling molecules was analyzed; the expression of angiogenic markers, signaling molecules, TNFR1, and TNFR2 in TNF‐α‐stimulated OSCC cells treated with or without TNFR2 neutralizing antibody (TNFR2 Nab) were assessed; the concentration of angiogenic markers in the supernatant of OSCC cells was detected; conditioned mediums of OSCC cells treated with TNF‐α or TNF‐α + TNFR2 Nab were applied to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), followed by tube formation and cell migration assays.

Results

Significantly elevated expression of TNFR2 and CD31 in OSCC tissues was observed. A positive gene expression correlation was identified between TNF‐α/TNFR2 and angiogenic markers or signaling molecules. TNFR2 Nab inhibited the effects of TNF‐α on enhancing the expression of angiogenic factors and TNFR2, the phosphorylation of the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, HUVECs migration, and tube formation.

Conclusions

TNFR2 Nab counteracts the effect of TNF‐α on OSCC cells through the TNFR2/Akt/mTOR axis, indicating that blocking TNFR2 might be a promising strategy against cancer.
Longitudinal changes in objective accommodative response, pupil size and spherical aberration: A case study
Authors: Plainis Sotiris , Panagopoulou Sophia , Charman W. Neil
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Previous transverse and a handful of longitudinal studies have shown that the slope of the static accommodation response/stimulus curve declines as complete presbyopia is approached. Changes in pupillary miosis and ocular spherical aberration (SA) are also evident. This study further investigated longitudinal changes in the relationships between the monocular static accommodative response, pupil diameter and SA of a single adult.

Methods

A wavefront analysing system, the Complete Ophthalmic Analysis System, was used in conjunction with a Badal optometer to allow continuous recording of the aberration structure of the dominant eye in a low myope for a range of accommodative demands (−0.83 to 7.63 D) over a period of 17 years until the age of 50. Monocular accommodative response was calculated as the equivalent refraction minimising wavefront error. The associated longitudinal changes in pupil size and SA with accommodation were also recorded.

Results

A decrease in accommodation response with age was found at almost all target vergences, with the changes being greatest for higher vergences. In addition, although absolute pupil diameter decreased with age, the rate of change in pupil diameter with accommodative stimulus remained approximately constant with age. Pupil constriction occurred for near stimuli even in full presbyopia. SA changed linearly with the accommodation response at all ages.

Conclusions

The objective amplitude of accommodation declined linearly with age as complete presbyopia was approached, while the slope of the response/stimulus curve also fell. It was hypothesised that the retinal image blur associated with the larger lags of accommodation at higher accommodative stimuli was reduced by pupil constriction and the resulting lower levels of SA.
MicroRNA482/2118 is lineage‐specifically involved in gibberellin signalling via the regulation of GID1 expression by targeting noncoding PHAS genes and subsequently instigated phasiRNAs
Authors: Zhang Yanqing , Zeng Zaohai , Hu Huimin , Zhao Minglei , Chen Chengjie , Ma Xingshuai , Li Guanliang , Li Jianguo , Liu Yuanlong , Hao Yanwei , Xu Jing , Xia Rui
Published: November 2023

MicroRNA482/2118 (miR482/2118) is a 22‐nt miRNA superfamily, with conserved functions in disease resistance and plant development. It usually instigates the production of phased small interfering RNAs (phasiRNAs) from its targets to expand or reinforce its silencing effect. Using a new high‐quality reference genome sequence and comprehensive small RNA profiling, we characterized a newly evolved regulatory pathway of miR482/2118 in litchi. In this pathway, miR482/2118 cleaved a novel noncoding trans‐acting gene (LcTASL1) and triggered phasiRNAs to regulate the expression of gibberellin (GA) receptor gene GIBBERELLIN INSENSITIVE DWARF1 (GID1) in trans; another trans‐acting gene LcTASL2, targeted by LcTASL1‐derived phasiRNAs, produced phasiRNAs as well to target LcGID1 to reinforce the silencing effect of LcTASL1. We found this miR482/2118‐TASL‐GID1 pathway was likely involved in fruit development, especially the seed development in litchi. In vivo construction of the miR482a‐TASL‐GID1 pathway in Arabidopsis could lead to defects in flower and silique development, analogous to the phenotype of gid1 mutants. Finally, we found that a GA‐responsive transcription factor, LcGAMYB33, could regulate LcMIR482/2118 as a feedback mechanism of the sRNA‐silencing pathway. Our results deciphered a lineage‐specifically evolved regulatory module of miR482/2118, demonstrating the high dynamics of miR482/2118 function in plants.
The psychophysiology of Mastermind: Characterizing response times and blinking in a high‐stakes television game show
Authors: Wyly Skyler , Jinon Neryanne , Francis Timothy , Evans Hailey , Kao Tsai Lieh , Lambert Shelby , Montgomery Shayne , Newlove Marvelene , Mariscal Haley , Nguyen Henry , Cole Harrison , Aispuro Israel , Robledo Daniela , Tenaglia Olivia , Weinberger Nina , Nguyen Bill , Waits Hailey , Jorian Daisy , Koch‐Kreher Lucas , Myrdal Hunter , Antoniou Victoria , Warrier Meghana , Wunsch Leah , Arce Iram , Kirchner Kayla , Campos Elena , Nguyen An , Rodriguez Kaitlynn , Cao Lanqin , Halmekangas Avery , Wilson Robert C.
Published: November 2023

Television game shows have proven to be a valuable resource for studying human behavior under conditions of high stress and high stakes. However, previous work has focused mostly on choices—ignoring much of the rich visual information that is available on screen. Here, we take a first step to extracting more of this information by investigating the response times and blinking of contestants in the BBC show Mastermind. In Mastermind, contestants answer rapid‐fire quiz questions while a camera slowly zooms in on their faces. By labeling contestants' behavior and blinks from 25 episodes, we asked how accuracy, response times, and blinking varied over the course of the game. For accuracy and response times, we tested whether contestants responded more accurately and more slowly after an error—exhibiting the “post‐error increase in accuracy” and “post‐error slowing” which has been repeatedly observed in the lab. For blinking, we tested whether blink rates varied according to the cognitive demands of the game—decreasing during periods of cognitive load, such as when pondering a response, and increasing at event boundaries in the task, such as the start of a question. In contrast to the lab, evidence for post‐error changes in accuracy and response time was weak, with only marginal effects observed. In line with the lab, blinking varied over the course of the game much as we predicted. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential of extracting dynamic signals from game shows to study the psychophysiology of behavior in the real world.
Migration, income pooling and food deprivation
Authors: Dafuleya Gift
Published: November 2023

Income pooling in the context of geographically stretched households, that is, households with migrants who maintain close relations and economic ties with household members left behind, is examined in this article. The focus is also directed at evaluating whether migration assists in reducing food deprivation in the household of origin. A model to generalise the relationship between the migrant and the family left behind is presented and then applied to Bulawayo, the second largest city in Zimbabwe. The analysis is tripartite. First, the determinants of migrant remittances are established; second, tests of income pooling between migrant remittances and income of the household at origin are conducted; and third, the impact of migration on the family left behind is examined in the context of food deprivation. Results show that gender is not a determinant of remittances, but it matters for income pooling of remittances with income at the household of origin on frequent and low‐cost purchases. The evidence provided challenges the idea that a household is a separate and independent unit composed of co‐residents eating from the same pot.
Segmentation and classification of skin lesions using hybrid deep learning method in the Internet of Medical Things
Authors: Akram Arslan , Rashid Javed , Jaffar Muhammad Arfan , Faheem Muhammad , Amin Riaz ul
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Particularly within the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) context, skin lesion analysis is critical for precise diagnosis. To improve the accuracy and efficiency of skin lesion analysis, CAD systems play a crucial role. To segment and classify skin lesions from dermoscopy images, this study focuses on using hybrid deep learning techniques.

Method

This research uses a hybrid deep learning model that combines two cutting‐edge approaches: Mask Region‐based Convolutional Neural Network (MRCNN) for semantic segmentation and ResNet50 for lesion detection. To pinpoint the precise location of a skin lesion, the MRCNN is used for border delineation. We amass a huge, annotated collection of dermoscopy images for thorough model training. The hybrid deep learning model to capture subtle representations of the images is trained from start to finish using this dataset.

Results

The experimental results using dermoscopy images show that the suggested hybrid method outperforms the current state‐of‐the‐art methods. The model's capacity to segment lesions into distinct groups is demonstrated by a segmentation accuracy measurement of 95.49 percent. In addition, the classification of skin lesions shows great accuracy and dependability, which is a notable advancement over traditional methods. The model is put through its paces on the ISIC 2020 Challenge dataset, scoring a perfect 96.75% accuracy. Compared to current best practices in IoMT, segmentation and classification models perform exceptionally well.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this paper's hybrid deep learning strategy is highly effective in skin lesion segmentation and classification. The results show that the model has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy in the setting of IoMT, and it outperforms the current gold standards. The excellent results obtained on the ISIC 2020 Challenge dataset further confirm the viability and superiority of the suggested methodology for skin lesion analysis.
Integrated multi‐omics analyses and genome‐wide association studies reveal prime candidate genes of metabolic and vegetative growth variation in canola
Authors: Knoch Dominic , Meyer Rhonda C. , Heuermann Marc C. , Riewe David , Peleke Fritz F. , Szymański Jędrzej , Abbadi Amine , Snowdon Rod J. , Altmann Thomas
Published: November 2023

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) identified thousands of genetic loci associated with complex plant traits, including many traits of agronomical importance. However, functional interpretation of GWAS results remains challenging because of large candidate regions due to linkage disequilibrium. High‐throughput omics technologies, such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics open new avenues for integrative systems biological analyses and help to nominate systems information supported (prime) candidate genes. In the present study, we capitalise on a diverse canola population with 477 spring‐type lines which was previously analysed by high‐throughput phenotyping of growth‐related traits and by RNA sequencing and metabolite profiling for multi‐omics‐based hybrid performance prediction. We deepened the phenotypic data analysis, now providing 123 time‐resolved image‐based traits, to gain insight into the complex relations during early vegetative growth and reanalysed the transcriptome data based on the latest Darmor‐bzh v10 genome assembly. Genome‐wide association testing revealed 61 298 robust quantitative trait loci (QTL) including 187 metabolite QTL, 56814 expression QTL and 4297 phenotypic QTL, many clustered in pronounced hotspots. Combining information about QTL colocalisation across omics layers and correlations between omics features allowed us to discover prime candidate genes for metabolic and vegetative growth variation. Prioritised candidate genes for early biomass accumulation include A06p05760.1_BnaDAR (PIAL1), A10p16280.1_BnaDAR, C07p48260.1_BnaDAR (PRL1) and C07p48510.1_BnaDAR (CLPR4). Moreover, we observed unequal effects of the Brassica A and C subgenomes on early biomass production.
Mining genic resources regulating nitrogen‐use efficiency based on integrative biological analyses and their breeding applications in maize and other crops
Authors: Xing Jiapeng , Zhang Juan , Wang Yanbo , Wei Xun , Yin Zechao , Zhang Yuqian , Pu Aqing , Dong Zhenying , Long Yan , Wan Xiangyuan
Published: November 2023

Nitrogen (N) is an essential factor for limiting crop yields, and cultivation of crops with low nitrogen‐use efficiency (NUE) exhibits increasing environmental and ecological risks. Hence, it is crucial to mine valuable NUE improvement genes, which is very important to develop and breed new crop varieties with high NUE in sustainable agriculture system. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) and genome‐wide association study (GWAS) analysis are the most common methods for dissecting genetic variations underlying complex traits. In addition, with the advancement of biotechnology, multi‐omics technologies can be used to accelerate the process of exploring genetic variations. In this study, we integrate the substantial data of QTLs, quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) from GWAS, and multi‐omics data including transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome and further analyze their interactions to predict some NUE‐related candidate genes. We also provide the genic resources for NUE improvement among maize, rice, wheat, and sorghum by homologous alignment and collinearity analysis. Furthermore, we propose to utilize the knowledge gained from classical cases to provide the frameworks for improving NUE and breeding N‐efficient varieties through integrated genomics, systems biology, and modern breeding technologies.
Retail banking closures in the United Kingdom. Are neighbourhood characteristics associated with retail bank branch closures?
Authors: Clark Stephen , Newing Andy , Hood Nick , Birkin Mark
Published: November 2023

The United Kingdom retail banking sector has been through many changes over the past decade, driven by economic, technological and pandemic factors. This is perhaps most evident through the rationalisation of the branch networks, primarily through branch closures. There is a concern that these closures can have differential effects on certain sections of society, reducing or eliminating their access to cash and financial services. In this study we utilise comprehensive branch‐level data and a discrete time‐hazard model to identify whether certain neighbourhood types have been disproportionally affected by these closures during the period 2015 to 2021. We find that building society branches are least likely to close, and that competition and the presence of alternative banking facilities (including Post Office branches) influence likelihood of closure. Crucially, neighbourhood type matters, with rural communities continuing to be most impacted, along with those where the predominant work activities are less concentrated, or largely absent. However, in contrast to earlier studies, we find that affluent neighbourhoods were more at risk of branch closure than more diverse and economically challenged neighbourhoods. We conclude by considering these findings in the context of recently introduced legislation to protect access to basic banking and cash withdrawal and deposit facilities.
Maximal sustainable energy intake during transatlantic ocean rowing is insufficient for total energy expenditure and skeletal muscle mass maintenance
Authors: Holsgrove‐West Rosalind K. , Revuelta Iniesta Raquel , Abdelrahman Doaa R. , Murton Andrew J. , Wall Benjamin T. , Stephens Francis B.
Published: November 2023

Studies of extreme endurance have suggested that there is an alimentary limit to energy intake (EI) of ∼2.5 × resting metabolic rate (RMR). To gain further insight, this study aimed to simultaneously measure EI, total energy expenditure (TEE) body mass and muscle mass in a large cohort of males and females of varying ages during a transatlantic rowing race. Forty‐nine competitors (m = 32, f = 17; age 24–67 years; time at sea 46 ± 7 days) in the 2020 and 2021 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge rowed 12–18 hday−1 for ∼3000 miles. TEE was assessed in the final week of the row using 2H218O doubly labelled water, and EI was analysed from daily ration packs over this period. Thickness of relatively active (vastus lateralis, intermedius, biceps brachaii and rectus abdominus) and inactive (gastrocnemius, soleus and triceps) muscles was measured pre (<7 days) and post (<24 h) row using ultrasound. Body mass was measured and used to calculate RMR from standard equations. There were no sex differences in males and females in EI (2.5 ± 0.5 and 2.3 ± 0.4 × RMR, respectively, P = 0.3050), TEE (2.5 ± 1.0 and 2.3 ± 0.4 × RMR, respectively, P = 0.5170), or body mass loss (10.2 ± 3.1% and 10.0 ± 3.0%, respectively, P = 0.8520), and no effect of age on EI (P = 0.5450) or TEE (P = 0.9344). Muscle loss occurred exclusively in the calf (15.7% ± 11.4% P < 0.0001), whilst other muscles remained unchanged. After 46 days of prolonged ultra‐endurance ocean rowing incurring 10% body mass loss, maximal sustainable EI of ∼2.5 × RMR was unable to meet total TEE suggesting that there is indeed a physiological capacity to EI.
Flow Transmission Characteristics Analysis of a Subsea Fluid Conveying-Pipeline System With Cracks by Considering Frequency Analysis Technique
Authors: Mishra Aditya , Arunesh Abhinav , Murugan S. Bala , Behera Rabindra Kumar
Published: November 2023

Underwater pipes conveying fluids are used to transport fluids such as oil, water, and other chemicals over long distances over the sea. One of the most frequent pipeline failures is cracking. Current studies mainly rely on dynamic properties, such as natural frequencies, deflection, mode shapes, and modal damping, and curvature mode forms, to detect the beginnings of faults/cracks in cascaded pipelines. The study looks at the varying natural frequencies of a non-uniform pipe carrying a hot, viscous fluid flowing in a laminar fashion determining the depth of the fracture. The pipe in operation is subject to gravity and a constant pre-stress. The structure of the subsea pipeline has been modeled and simulated in MATLAB and subsequently, the analysis has been carried out with CFX model in ANSYS®. It has been found that the natural frequency drops as the density of the fluid that flows through the pipe increases. It is observed that natural frequency depends inversely on fracture depth irrespective of ground support. The presence of a crack in the pipeline can be ascertained, as well as its depth, by monitoring the pipe’s natural frequency. Additionally, a frequency sensitivity analysis has suggested the effects of several parameters, such as the velocity ratio, pressure head, uncertainties of the stress range, and beginning crack size have been studied in the subsea pipeline.
Use of Satellite Data and Artificial Intelligence for Washout Assessment for Pipeline Integrity Management
Authors: Ghosh Pradeep Kumar , Kumar Santosh , Roy Sayan
Published: November 2023

Pipeline integrity is one of the major concerns when operating a hydrocarbon pipeline. Environmental forces such as water course change, soil erosion, lightning strike, earthquakes etc. play a key role for pipeline integrity and may cause major damages if left unnoticed. [1]. These threats are time independent and occur sporadically throughout the pipeline network. [2][3]. Usually, the strategy for these types of threat is “Mitigate when noticed”. The paper lays foundation to evaluation of one of these threats that is water course change which results to pipeline washout outs. The paper uses the historical satellite data to predict the vulnerable stretches where washout is likely to occur and provide an indication where washouts are likely to occur. This module also provides a node for risk assessment model where the sections can be quantified for relative risk based on changes in the water course. Washouts are dynamic pipeline integrity threats.

A terrain or river course changes over a period due to climate change and/or human activities. This paper discusses methodology to evaluate the changes which have occurred during the history of the terrain and the pipeline. Based on previous washout histories across the pipeline network and “High-resolution mapping of global surface water and its long-term changes” using Global Surface Water - Data Access, 2019, a methodology has been prepared to identify the areas where washouts are likely to occur. [4][5]

The paper analysis surface water run-offs, percentage changes, extent of water runoffs, seasonal, new seasonal, lost seasonal, ephermal seasonal and other layers of the global surface water change to identify the areas where such possibilities can be methodically worked out and algorithm developed to identify the washout probabilities on relative basis. The paper further divides these areas into various zones on Washout Priorities and help operator to make meaning full decision with an ultimate objective to strengthen pipeline integrity. The paper also discusses some of the typical cases for ease of understanding and appreciation of the approach.
ZnO by Ag Lα, hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Rincón-Ortiz Sergio A. , Quintero-Orozco Jorge H. , Ospina Rogelio
Published: November 2023

Zinc oxide powder was characterized by hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) with an Ag Lα (2984.2 eV) excitation source. The sample was fixed to a stainless-steel sample holder with a copper double-sided adhesive tape. Survey spectrum, C 1s, O 1s, Zn 2p, and Zn LMM core levels’ spectra were acquired.
A soft implantable energy supply system that integrates wireless charging and biodegradable Zn-ion hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Sheng Hongwei , Jiang Li , Wang Qi , Zhang Zongwen , Lv Yurong , Ma Hongyun , Bi Huasheng , Yuan Jiao , Shao Mingjiao , Li Fengfeng , Li Wenquan , Xie Erqing , Liu Youdi , Xie Zhaoqian , Wang Jing , Yu Cunjiang , Lan Wei
Published: November 2023

The advent of implantable bioelectronic devices offers prospective solutions toward health monitoring and disease diagnosis and treatments. However, advances in power modules have lagged far behind the tissue-integrated sensor nodes and circuit units. Here, we report a soft implantable power system that monolithically integrates wireless energy transmission and storage modules. The energy storage unit comprises biodegradable Zn-ion hybrid supercapacitors that use molybdenum sulfide (MoS
2
) nanosheets as cathode, ion-crosslinked alginate gel as electrolyte, and zinc foil as anode, achieving high capacitance (93.5 mF cm
−2
) and output voltage (1.3 V). Systematic investigations have been conducted to elucidate the charge storage mechanism of the supercapacitor and to assess the biodegradability and biocompatibility of the materials. Furthermore, the wirelessly transmitted energy can not only supply power directly to applications but also charge supercapacitors to ensure a constant, reliable power output. Its power supply capabilities have also been successfully demonstrated for controlled drug delivery.
Two-color coincidence single-molecule pulldown for the specific detection of disease-associated protein aggregates
Authors: Saleeb Rebecca S. , Leighton Craig , Lee Ji-Eun , O’Shaughnessy Judi , Jeacock Kiani , Chappard Alexandre , Cumberland Robyn , Zhao Tianxiao , Ball Sarah R. , Sunde Margaret , Clarke David J. , Piché Kristin , McPhail Jacob A. , Louwrier Ariel , Angers Rachel , Gandhi Sonia , Downey Patrick , Kunath Tilo , Horrocks Mathew H.
Published: November 2023

Protein misfolding and aggregation is a characteristic of many neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The oligomers generated during aggregation are likely involved in disease pathogenesis and present promising biomarker candidates. However, owing to their small size and low concentration, specific tools to quantify and characterize aggregates in complex biological samples are still lacking. Here, we present single-molecule two-color aggregate pulldown (STAPull), which overcomes this challenge by probing immobilized proteins using orthogonally labeled detection antibodies. By analyzing colocalized signals, we can eliminate monomeric protein and specifically quantify aggregated proteins. Using the aggregation-prone alpha-synuclein protein as a model, we demonstrate that this approach can specifically detect aggregates with a limit of detection of 5 picomolar. Furthermore, we show that STAPull can be used in a range of samples, including human biofluids. STAPull is applicable to protein aggregates from a variety of disorders and will aid in the identification of biomarkers that are crucial in the effort to diagnose these diseases.
Draft genome sequence of a multidrug-resistant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
clinical isolate, 3184-KZ
Authors: Auganova Dana , Atavliyeva Sabina , Akisheva Akmaral , Tsepke Anna , Tarlykov Pavel
Published: November 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
is an obligate aerobic bacterium that is the causative agent of tuberculosis. Here, we announce the draft genome sequence of multidrug-resistant
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
clinical isolate, 3184-KZ, from a patient with infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis from Kazakhstan.
Interactome between ASFV and host immune pathway proteins
Authors: Wu Qijun , Lei Yingying , Zuo Ya , Zhang Ji , Guo Fenglin , Xu Weize , Xie Tanghui , Wang Dang , Peng Guiqing , Wang Xiangru , Chen Huanchun , Fu Zhenfang , Cao Gang , Dai Jinxia
Published: November 2023

African swine fever virus (ASFV) causes severe acute hemorrhagic disease with high mortality in domestic pigs but minimal or no symptoms to warthogs, for which the underlying mechanism remains elusive. ASFV encodes numerous proteins to disturb host immune responses via interacting with host proteins. In this study, we deciphered the comprehensive protein-protein interaction (PPI) network between ASFV and host immune pathways by the recombination-based library vs library high-throughput yeast two-hybrid screening. This PPI network contains both ASFV-host PPI and ASFV-ASFV PPI information, providing a comprehensive ASFV-host interactome landscape. We further explored the ASFV-host PPI difference between domestic pigs and warthogs. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of ASFV proteins in the PPI with cGAS-STING pathway on IFN-I and NF-κB promoter activity was screened to investigate the ASFV-host PPI functions. Our work will help the exploration of ASFV pathogenesis and the development of anti-ASFV vaccine and ASFV-resistant transgenic pigs.

IMPORTANCE

African swine fever (ASF), caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV), has become a major crisis for the pork industry in recent years. The mechanism for ASFV pathology and the clinical symptoms difference of ASF between domestic pigs and reservoir hosts remain to be elucidated. We deciphered the comprehensive protein-protein interaction (PPI) network between ASFV and host immune pathways. The intensive PPI network contained both ASFV-host immune pathway PPI and ASFV-ASFV PPI information, providing a comprehensive ASFV-host interaction landscape. Furthermore, the ASFV-host PPI difference between domestic pigs and warthogs was explored, which will be instructive for exploring essential candidates involved in ASFV pathology. Moreover, we screened the inhibitory effect of ASFV proteins in the PPI with cGAS-STING pathway on IFN-I and NF-κB, further providing possible functions of ASFV-host PPI network in innate immune regulation.
Isotopic (δ13C, δ18O) Analysis of Small Amounts of Carbonate in Silicate Rocks by the Continuous Flow Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry Method
Authors: Dubinina E. O. , Chizhova Y. N. , Kossova S. A.
Published: November 2023

An experimental study of the main factors affecting the accuracy of oxygen and carbon isotopic analysis in carbonates dispersed in silicate matrix is carried out. Artificial 1, 2, 5, and 10% mixtures of quartz with carbonates with different isotopic parameters (KH-2, Ko, MCA-8) were analyzed by continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry (CF IRMS). It is established that, in addition to the influence of the instrumental nonlinearity, the results are affected by two factors: trace amounts of CO2, constantly present in the system (the blank effect) and the presence of chemically neutral silicate particles (the matrix effect). The blank effect depends on the isotopic parameters of the sample and has very little influence on the estimated carbonate content in the rock. The matrix effect, on the contrary, strongly affects the estimated carbonate content, and produces the isotopic shift towards underestimated contents of heavy 13C and 18O isotopes. It is shown that this effect is related to the processes occurring near the CO2–acid–quartz interface, which are accompanied by kinetic fractionation of carbon and oxygen isotopes. Both effects are dependent on the amount of silicate matrix in the system and most clearly manifested during analysis of carbonate-poor rocks. When the carbonate content in the rock is about 1–2%, deviations from the true δ13C and δ18O values can reach the first ppm, while carbonate content obtained by chromatographic peak calibration can be underestimated by 20–40%.
#ReadyToPlay: health problems in women’s football–a two-season prospective cohort study in the Norwegian premier league
Authors: Amundsen Roar , Thorarinsdottir Solveig , Clarsen Benjamin , Andersen Thor Einar , Møller Merete , Bahr Roald
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To describe the prevalence, incidence and burden of all health problems in the Norwegian women’s premier league.

Methods

During the 2020 and 2021 seasons, players in the Norwegian women’s premier league reported all health problems (sudden-onset injuries, gradual-onset injuries and illnesses) weekly, using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems. Team medical staff diagnosed reported problems using the Sport Medicine Diagnostic Coding System. We calculated average weekly prevalence, incidence and burden of all health problems reported.

Results

We included 294 players (age: 22±4 years) from 11 teams. Response rate to the weekly questionnaire was 79%. On average, 32% (95% CI: 31% to 33%) of the players reported at least one health problem at any time and 22% (95% CI: 21% to 23%) reported a substantial health problem negatively affecting their training volume or performance. The overall incidence was 10.7 health problems per 1000 hours of football exposure. Sudden-onset injuries were most severe (68% of the total time loss), followed by gradual-onset injuries (25%) and illnesses (8%). Thigh was the most common injury location (26%), while knee injuries were most severe, causing 42% of the total injury time loss. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries alone caused 30% of the total injury time loss.

Conclusion

One in five players had a health problem negatively affecting their training volume or performance at any time. Sudden-onset injuries represented the most burdensome health problem. Thigh injuries were most frequent, while knee injuries, ACL injuries especially, were most severe.
Core outcomes and factors influencing the experience of care for children with severe acute exacerbations of asthma: a qualitative study
Authors: Craig Simon , Xu Yao , Robas Kael , Iramain Ricardo , Yock-Corrales Adriana , Soto-Martinez Manuel E , Rino Pedro , Belen Alvarez Ricciardi Maria , Piantanida Sofia , Mahant Sanjay , Ubuane Peter Odion , Odusote Olatunde , Kwok Maria , Johnson Michael D , Paniagua Natalia , Benito Fernandez Javier , Ong Gene Y , Lyttle Mark D , Gong Jin , Roland Damian , Dalziel Stuart R , Nixon Gillian M , Powell Colin V E , Graudins Andis , Babl Franz E
Published: November 2023

Objective

To identify the outcomes considered important, and factors influencing the patient experience, for parents and caregivers of children presenting to hospital with a severe acute exacerbation of asthma. This work contributes to the outcome-identification process in developing a core outcome set (COS) for future clinical trials in children with severe acute asthma.

Design

A qualitative study involving semistructured interviews with parents and caregivers of children who presented to hospital with a severe acute exacerbation of asthma.

Setting

Hospitals in 12 countries associated with the global Pediatric Emergency Research Networks, including high-income and middle-income countries. Interviews were conducted face-to-face, by teleconference/video-call, or by phone.

Findings

Overall, there were 54 interviews with parents and caregivers; 2 interviews also involved the child. Hospital length of stay, intensive care unit or high-dependency unit (HDU) admission, and treatment costs were highlighted as important outcomes influencing the patient and family experience. Other potential clinical trial outcomes included work of breathing, speed of recovery and side effects. In addition, the patient and family experience was impacted by decision-making leading up to seeking hospital care, transit to hospital, waiting times and the use of intravenous treatment. Satisfaction of care was related to communication with clinicians and frequent reassessment.

Conclusions

This study provides insight into the outcomes that parents and caregivers believe to be the most important to be considered in the process of developing a COS for the treatment of acute severe exacerbations of asthma.