bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The estimation of reproductive values from pedigrees
Authors: Borger Mirjam J , Komdeur Jan , Richardson David S , Weissing Franz J
Published: June 2023

Quantifying fitness is important to understand adaptive evolution. Reproductive values are useful for making fitness comparisons involving different categories of individuals, like males and females. By definition, the reproductive value of a category is the expected per capita contribution of the members of that category to the gene pool of future generations. Life history theory reveals how reproductive values can be determined via the estimation of life-history parameters, but this requires an adequate life-history model and intricate algebraic calculations. Recently, an alternative pedigree-based method has become popular, which estimates the expected genetic contribution of individuals to future generations by tracking their descendants down the pedigree. This method is versatile and intuitively appealing, but it is unknown if the method produces estimates of reproductive values that are accurate and precise. To investigate this, we implement various life-history scenarios (for which the “true” reproductive values can be calculated) in individual-based simulations, use the simulation data to estimate reproductive values with the pedigree method, and compare the results with the true target values. We show that the pedigree-based estimation of reproductive values is either biased (in the short term) or imprecise (in the long term). This holds even for simple life histories and under idealized conditions. We conclude that the pedigree method is not a good substitute for the traditional method to quantify reproductive values.
DKADE: a novel framework based on deep learning and knowledge graph for identifying adverse drug events and related medications
Authors: Feng Ze-Ying , Wu Xue-Hong , Ma Jun-Long , Li Min , He Ge-Fei , Cao Dong-Sheng , Yang Guo-Ping
Published: June 2023

Adverse drug events (ADEs) are common in clinical practice and can cause significant harm to patients and increase resource use. Natural language processing (NLP) has been applied to automate ADE detection, but NLP systems become less adaptable when drug entities are missing or multiple medications are specified in clinical narratives. Additionally, no Chinese-language NLP system has been developed for ADE detection due to the complexity of Chinese semantics, despite ˃10 million cases of drug-related adverse events occurring annually in China. To address these challenges, we propose DKADE, a deep learning and knowledge graph-based framework for identifying ADEs. DKADE infers missing drug entities and evaluates their correlations with ADEs by combining medication orders and existing drug knowledge. Moreover, DKADE can automatically screen for new adverse drug reactions. Experimental results show that DKADE achieves an overall F1-score value of 91.13%. Furthermore, the adaptability of DKADE is validated using real-world external clinical data. In summary, DKADE is a powerful tool for studying drug safety and automating adverse event monitoring.
Agreement and reliability of remote assessment of actinic keratosis: a proof-of-concept study using smartphone photographs
Authors: Ortner Vinzent Kevin , Zibert John R , Manole Ionela  , Mondragón Alejandro Castillo , Andersen Anders Daniel , Haedersdal Merete
Published: June 2023

Despite a rapidly growing interest in use of teledermatology, validation of conventional in-clinic scoring systems for remote assessment of actinic keratosis (AK) fails to keep pace. In this paper, we describe the level of agreement between in-clinic and remote assessments of AK using two different conventional scoring systems. The results of our proof-of-concept study encourage the use of patient-obtained smartphone photographs for standardized remote assessment but highlight the need for adjustments to the currently available scoring systems to improve their reliability. The results of this study may pave the road for the implementation of remote assessments of AK in a clinical management plan.
Morphometry and network-based atrophy patterns in SCN1A-related Dravet syndrome
Authors: Lenge Matteo , Balestrini Simona , Mei Davide , Macconi Letizia , Caligiuri Maria Eugenia , Cuccarini Valeria , Aquino Domenico , Mazzi Federica , d’Incerti Ludovico , Darra Francesca , Bernardina Bernardo Dalla , Guerrini Renzo
Published: June 2023

Mutations of the voltage-gated sodium channel SCN1A gene (MIM#182389) are among the most clinically relevant epilepsy-related genetic mutations and present variable phenotypes, from the milder genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus to Dravet syndrome, a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Qualitative neuroimaging studies have identified malformations of cortical development in some patients and mild atrophic changes, partially confirmed by quantitative studies. Precise correlations between MRI findings and clinical variables have not been addressed. We used morphometric methods and network-based models to detect abnormal brain structural patterns in 34 patients with SCN1A-related epilepsy, including 22 with Dravet syndrome. By measuring the morphometric characteristics of the cortical mantle and volume of subcortical structures, we found bilateral atrophic changes in the hippocampus, amygdala, and the temporo-limbic cortex (P-value < 0.05). By correlating atrophic patterns with brain connectivity profiles, we found the region of the hippocampal formation as the epicenter of the structural changes. We also observed that Dravet syndrome was associated with more severe atrophy patterns with respect to the genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus phenotype (r = −0.0613, P-value = 0.03), thus suggesting that both the underlying mutation and seizure severity contribute to determine atrophic changes.
Segregation and integration of sensory features by flexible temporal characteristics of independent neural representations
Authors: Han Zhili , Zhu Hao , Shen Yunyun , Tian Xing
Published: June 2023

Segregation and integration are two fundamental yet competing computations in cognition. For example, in serial speech processing, stable perception necessitates the sequential establishment of perceptual representations to remove irrelevant features for achieving invariance. Whereas multiple features need to combine to create a coherent percept. How to simultaneously achieve seemingly contradicted computations of segregation and integration in a serial process is unclear. To investigate their neural mechanisms, we used loudness and lexical tones as a research model and employed a novel multilevel oddball paradigm with Electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings to explore the dynamics of mismatch negativity (MMN) responses to their deviants. When two types of deviants were presented separately, distinct topographies of MMNs to loudness and tones were observed at different latencies (loudness earlier), supporting the sequential dynamics of independent representations for two features. When they changed simultaneously, the latency of responses to tones became shorter and aligned with that to loudness, while the topographies remained independent, yielding the combined MMN as a linear additive of single MMNs of loudness and tones. These results suggest that neural dynamics can be temporally synchronized to distinct sensory features and balance the computational demands of segregation and integration, grounding for invariance and feature binding in serial processing.
Social cohesion in platformized public spheres: toward a conceptual framework
Authors: Schneiders Pascal , Stegmann Daniel , Stark Birgit
Published: June 2023

Social cohesion is crucial for democratic societies since it unites individuals who do not have a direct relationship with each other. By representing social heterogeneity and enabling public debate, the public sphere is vital for fostering social cohesion. However, platformization—that is, the establishment of social media platforms as an infrastructure for public communication—challenges the constitution of publics and thus raises the question of whether the public sphere is still able to fulfill its cohesive function. Expanding on this question, our article systematically theorizes how platformization at the meso-level induces the emergence of a platformized public sphere at the macro-level. The article presents a framework that allows us to analyze: (1) which actors constitute publics in the age of platformization; (2) the logics according to which this happens; and (3) to what extent these logics, consisting of social media affordances and algorithms, contribute to the cohesive performance of platformized publics.
Gut Microbiome-Generated Phenylacetylglutamine from Dietary Protein is Associated with Crohn’s Disease and Exacerbates Colitis in Mouse Model Possibly via Platelet Activation
Authors: Feng Rui , Tian Zhenyi , Mao Ren , Ma Ruiqi , Luo Wanrong , Zhao Min , Li Xiaozhi , Liu Yunchong , Huang Kan , Xiang Liyuan , Zhuang Xiaojun , Huo Bitao , Yu Tiantian , Chen Sifan , Chen Minhu , Zhu Yijun
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Our aims were to better understand the interplay of diet and gut microbiota in Crohn’s disease [CD], taking advantage of a new-onset treatment-naïve CD cohort. We focus on phenylacetylglutamine [PAGln], a diet-derived meta-organismal prothrombotic metabolite.

Design

We collected faecal and serum samples from a CD cohort [n = 136] and healthy controls [n = 126] prior to treatment, and quantified serum PAGln using LC-MS/MS. Diet was assessed using food-frequency questionnaires. Mice [C57BL/6] were fed high/low-protein diets and administered dextran sodium sulphate [DSS] to examine plasma PAGly, thrombosis potential, and colitis severity. PAGly or saline was administered to DSS-induced colitis mice, and colitis severity and colonic tissue gene expression were examined. P-selectin and CD40L expression were determined in human platelet-rich plasma [n = 5–6] after exposure to platelet agonists following PAGln priming. Bioinformatic analysis and bacterial culturing identified the main contributor of PAGln in CD.

Results

PAGln, a meta-organismal prothrombotic metabolite, is associated with CD. Administration of PAGly exacerbated colitis in a mouse model and upregulated coagulation-related biological processes. Antiplatelet medicine, dipyridamole, attenuated PAGly-enhanced colitis susceptibility. PAGln enhanced platelet activation and CD40L expression in platelet-rich plasma ex vivo. Further study revealed that high dietary protein intake and increased abundance of phenylacetic acid [PAA]-producing Proteobacteria mediated by phenylpyruvate decarboxylase act in concert to cause the elevated PAGln levels in CD patients.

Conclusion

Taken together, ppdc-carrying Proteobacteria-generated PAGln from dietary protein is associated with CD and exacerbates colitis possibly via platelet-induced coagulation and inflammation These results suggest that PAGln is a potential early diagnostic marker and therapeutic target of CD.
Histological validation of atrial structural remodelling in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Takahashi Yuya , Yamaguchi Takanori , Otsubo Toyokazu , Nakashima Kana , Shinzato Kodai , Osako Ryosuke , Shichida Shigeki , Kawano Yuki , Fukui Akira , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Aishima Shinichi , Saito Tsunenori , Takahashi Naohiko , Node Koichi
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

This study aimed to histologically validate atrial structural remodelling associated with atrial fibrillation.

Methods and results

Patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation and endomyocardial atrial biopsy were included (n = 230; 67 ± 12 years old; 69 women). Electroanatomic mapping was performed during right atrial pacing. Voltage at the biopsy site (Vbiopsy), global left atrial voltage (VGLA), and the proportion of points with fractionated electrograms defined as ≥5 deflections in each electrogram (%Fractionated EGM) were evaluated. SCZtotal was calculated as the total width of slow conduction zones, defined as regions with a conduction velocity of <30 cm/s. Histological factors potentially associated with electroanatomic characteristics were evaluated using multiple linear regression analyses. Ultrastructural features and immune cell infiltration were evaluated by electron microscopy and immunohistochemical staining in 33 and 60 patients, respectively. Fibrosis, intercellular space, myofibrillar loss, and myocardial nuclear density were significantly associated with Vbiopsy (P = .014, P < .001, P < .001, and P = .002, respectively) and VGLA (P = .010, P < .001, P = .001, and P < .001, respectively). The intercellular space was associated with the %Fractionated EGM (P = .001). Fibrosis, intercellular space, and myofibrillar loss were associated with SCZtotal (P = .028, P < .001, and P = .015, respectively). Electron microscopy confirmed plasma components and immature collagen fibrils in the increased intercellular space and myofilament lysis in cardiomyocytes, depending on myofibrillar loss. Among the histological factors, the severity of myofibrillar loss was associated with an increase in macrophage infiltration.

Conclusion

Histological correlates of atrial structural remodelling were fibrosis, increased intercellular space, myofibrillar loss, and decreased nuclear density. Each histological component was defined using electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry studies.
Digest: Few new mutations are recessive lethal
Authors: Epley Benjamin R
Published: June 2023

When a new mutation arises, what is the probability that it is recessive lethal? Wade et al. find that fewer than 1% of nonsynonymous mutations in humans and Drosophila melanogaster are recessive lethal. The authors show that methods based on site frequency spectrum (SFS) analyses, though generally robust in their estimations of the nonlethal distribution of fitness effects (DFE), are unable to accurately estimate the fraction of recessive lethal mutations.
Gut microbiomes of captive primates show phylosymbiosis, respond to dietary sugar reduction, and select for host-specific dietary microbes
Authors: Bornbusch Sally L , Muletz-Wolz Carly R , Lopez-Bondarchuk Ekaterina , Maslanka Michael T , Kendrick Erin L
Published: June 2023

Host-associated microbiomes are influenced by evolutionary history and proximate factors such as diet and environment. Zoos house animals in relatively standardized and manipulatable environments, making zoo populations valuable for studying microbiomes. Using a small population of five, closely related primate species housed under nearly identical environments, we investigated gut microbiome variation regarding (a) congruence between host evolutionary history and gut bacterial composition (i.e. phylosymbiosis), (b) a longitudinal reduction in dietary sugar intake, and (c) ingestion of bacteria from dietary sources. We found that the primate gut microbiomes varied across individuals and showed phylosymbiosis. When animals were fed diets with reduced sugar and increased fibre, we found host-specific changes in taxonomically distinct microbes (Phascolarctobacterium, Megasphaera, and Sharpea). Yet, these bacterial genera share similar functional potential (fibre degradation), indicating that the distinct bacterial communities may fulfill similar functions. Although all individuals received the same diet, the diet-associated bacteria in primate gut microbiomes were distinct across individuals of different species, suggesting a mechanism that selects for unique dietary microbes to persist in animal guts. Our findings show that the microbiomes of a small, captive primate population housed under uniform environmental conditions still show patterns congruent with combined influences of evolutionary history and diet.
“Live Gerontology”: Understanding and Representing Aging, Loneliness, and Long-Term Care Through Science and Art
Authors: Neves Barbara Barbosa , Wilson Josephine , Sanders Alexandra , Kokanović Renata , Burns Kate
Published: June 2023

This article proposes an expansive conceptualization of gerontological research by engaging with a “live gerontology” that combines sciences and arts to better understand and represent aging and its diverse meanings and contexts. Borrowing the sociological concept of “live methods,” we argue that gerontology can benefit from a “live” approach—not only methodologically, but also conceptually. To guide pathways between artistic and gerontological fields and frame its practices and outcomes, we suggest four propositions for a live gerontology: (1) using multiple genres to artfully connect the whole—interweaving micro-, meso-, and macrolevels to contextualize aging within various sociocultural milieus; (2) fostering the use of the senses to capture more than just what people say—what they do, display, and feel; (3) enabling a critical inventiveness by relying on arts’ playfulness to design/refine instruments; and (4) ensuring a constant reflection on ethics of representation and public responsibility. To apply and experiment with a live gerontological approach, we describe collaborations with an award-winning writer and an illustrator. The collaborations drew on qualitative data from a study on lived experiences of loneliness in long-term care through ethnography and interviews with residents of 2 Australian facilities. The writer explored participants’ accounts as creative stories, which were then illustrated. Motivated by an ethics of representation, we aimed to represent findings without othering or further marginalizing participants. The creative materials offered more than appealing representations, shining new light on the intricate nature of aging, loneliness, institutionalization, and gerontology research and practice.
Transforming microseismic clouds into near real-time visualization of the growing hydraulic fracture
Authors: Glubokovskikh Stanislav , Sherman Christopher S , Morris Joseph P , Alumbaugh David L
Published: June 2023

Microseismic observations during unconventional reservoir stimulation are typically seen as a proxy for clusters of hydraulic fractures and the extent of the stimulated reservoir. Such straightforward interpretation is often misleading and fails to provide a physically reasonable image of the fracturing process. This paper demonstrates the application of a physics-based machine learning algorithm which enables a rapid and accurate fracture mapping from the microseismic data. Our training and validation data set relies on a history-matched geomechanical modelling workflow implemented in GEOS software for the Hydraulic Fracturing Test Site 1 (HFTS-1) project. For this study we augmented the simulated fracture growth through geostatistical modelling of induced seismicity, so that the synthetic microseismic catalogue matches the main statistical properties of the field observations. We formulated the problem of mapping the actual fracture in the clutter of events to parallel common video segmentation workflows: several past video frames (microseismic density snapshots) are passed through a deep convolutional network to classify whether a given voxel is associated with a fracture or intact rock. We found that for accurate fracture mapping, the network’s input and architecture must be augmented to incorporate the fluid injection parameters (pressure, rate, concentration of proppant, and location of the perforation within the cluster). The error rate for the network reached as little as 10 per cent of the fracture area, while a conventional microseismic interpretation approach yielded ∼300 per cent. Our approach also yields must faster predictions than conventional methods (minutes instead of weeks), and could enable engineers to make rapid decisions regarding engineering parameters (pumping rate, viscosity) in real time during stimulation.
Combining Love and Rayleigh waves in detecting and locating seismic sources
Authors: Fan Wenyuan
Published: June 2023

Surface waves are critical in detecting and locating seismic sources that do not produce much high-frequency radiation. For such sources, typical approaches using body waves for detecting and locating earthquakes are less effective. Slow earthquakes and exotic seismic sources often have this seismic radiation characteristic, and array analyses of surface waves recorded on global and regional seismic networks have proven effective in recognizing such sources. Most approaches have relied on Rayleigh waves, whereas Love waves have rarely been used. Here we develop a new approach using multiscale arrays to detect and locate seismic sources with both Love and Rayleigh surface waves. The method first forms three-station subarrays and then uses three-component records of the stations to independently estimate three sets of surface wave propagation directions and centroid arrival times. The subarray estimates are then assembled to locate seismic sources and their origin times. We find that using multiple, disconnected global networks improves location accuracy and that using both types of surface waves can enhance detection sensitivity and robustness.
Rock acoustics of CO2 storage in basalt
Authors: Carcione José M , Qadrouh Ayman N , Alajmi Mamdoh , Alqahtani Naif B , Ba Jing
Published: June 2023

We simulate variations in the P- and S-wave velocities due to CO2 injection in basalt, caused by water replacement and mineralization in the form of carbonate cements. Carbonization can be monitored with seismic data on the basis of changes in velocity. We consider basalts composed of (Fe, Ca and Mg) minerals mainly, and the pore space is assumed to be initially saturated with water. The mineralization is based on a model that estimates the volume of precipitated cement and resulting porosity loss, and the velocities as a function of injection time are calculated with a patchy cement model. In the example, there are two stages: 1 week of CO2 injection and 29 weeks of frame cementation. After 1 week, water has been replaced by CO2, where density and P-wave velocity decrease, and cementation implies an increase in bulk density, P-wave velocity, whereas porosity and surface area are reduced. To our knowledge there are no models relating the effects of carbon mineralization on seismic properties. The present model can be applied to other rocks, where CO2 injection induces mineralization and storage.
O-203 Unexplained infertility: diagnosis by exclusion
Authors: Ata B , Bhattacharya S , Bosch E , Costello M , Dos Santos-Ribeiro S , Gersak K , Homburg R , Le Clef N , Mincheva M , Norman R , Piltonen T , Scicluna D , Somers S , Sunkara S K , Verhoeve H , Romualdi D
Published: June 2023

Study question: What is the optimal work-up to establish the diagnosis of unexplained infertility, based on the best available evidence in the literature?

Summary answer: The ESHRE Guideline on Unexplained Infertility provides 35 recommendations on the diagnosis of unexplained infertility.

What is known already? The diagnosis of unexplained infertility is made when no abnormalities of the female and/or male reproductive systems are clearly identified. UI is inevitably a diagnosis by exclusion, after “standard” investigations. However, a real standardization of the diagnostic work-up is still lacking.

Study design, size, duration: The guideline was developed according to the structured methodology for the development of ESHRE guidelines. First, a group of experts formulated the key questions. Literature searches and assessments were then performed. Papers written in English and published up to 24 October 2022 were included in the review. Prior to publication, the guideline was reviewed by independent international reviewers.

Participants/materials, setting, methods: Based on the collected evidence, recommendations were formulated and discussed until consensus was reached within the guideline group. A stakeholders’ review was organized after the finalization of the draft. The revised version was approved by the guideline group and the ESHRE Executive Committee.

Main results and the role of chance: This guideline aims to help clinicians in delivering the optimal care for couples with unexplained infertility. Since unexplained infertility is a diagnosis of exclusion, this lecture will focus on the diagnostic procedures that couples should/could go through during the infertility work-up, and will analyse the need for additional diagnostic tests to establish the diagnosis of unexplained infertility. The guideline has been in stakeholder review and is prepared for submission in 2023.

Limitations, reasons for caution: Most diagnostic tests and interventions in couples with unexplained infertility are not well studied. For a large proportion of these tests, evidence was very limited and of very low quality. Further studies are definitely needed in this field, possibly providing reliable data for revisiting the current recommendations.

Wider implications of the findings: Based on the best available evidence, the guideline provides clinicians with clear advice on how to optimize the diagnostic approach to couples with unexplained infertility. In addition, a list of research recommendations is included to prompt further studies in the field.

Study funding/competing interest(s) The guideline was developed and funded by ESHRE, that covered expenses associated with the guideline meetings, with the literature searches and with the dissemination of the guideline. The guideline group members did not
Integration in mixed-methods studies: existing practices, considerations and recommendations for pharmacy research
Authors: Murry Logan T , Fadare Olajide O , Al-Khatib Arwa , Witry Matthew J
Published: June 2023

Mixed methods research is increasingly used to investigate complex issues in health and healthcare. Purposeful integration of the qualitative and quantitative strands has a significant potential to yield insights that exceed the value of a study’s constituent qualitative and quantitative components alone. The philosophical foundations of mixed methods in pragmatism support the importance of integration as a focus of designing and conducting mixed methods research. Integration can be facilitated by considering and employing study components such as distinct mixed methods research questions, sampling strategies, data transformations, joint data displays and integrated narrative discussions. This manuscript explores the importance of integration in mixed-methods research, provides examples of these techniques used in pharmacy research and offers practical recommendations for implementing these techniques.
Eye-Controlled Cursor Stabilization Technique Based on Optimal Estimation
Authors: Yin Jibin , Wang Yingtao , Chen Cheng , Zhang Xiangliang
Published: June 2023

In this study, we propose a stabilization algorithm based on optimal estimation to improve the stability of the eye-controlled cursor. The main principle is that the optimal result of the cursor state at the previous moment is used to calculate the predicted value of the current cursor state (a priori estimate). Then, the actual state of the cursor given by the eye tracker is used to correct the predicted value so as to move the cursor smoothly and stably. To verify the performance of the proposed eye-controlled cursor stabilization technique, we designed two sets of control experiments to compare our technique with two classical eye-controlled cursor stabilization techniques: manual and gaze input cascaded and warping to target centre. The experimental results show our stabilization algorithm significantly improves the performance speed of the eye-controlled cursor and reduces the error rate. It is additionally more accessible for users and has good application potential.
Understanding patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives of multidrug-resistant organisms
Authors: Watson Eliza , Tsindos Tess , Peleg Anton Y , Bass Pauline , Stewardson Andrew J , Ayton Darshini , Peel Trisha
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Transmission of MDR organisms (MROs) such as carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) and VRE in healthcare facilities is a major issue globally. Knowledge gaps exist, including the impact of these microorganisms on patients, and healthcare worker understanding of infection control approaches for MROs. This study aimed to explore patient and healthcare worker experiences and perspectives of MROs.

Methods

A sequential exploratory mixed-methods study was performed at a large metropolitan acute and subacute hospital. This involved semi-structured face-to-face interviews with patients with confirmed MROs to explore their understanding of these microorganisms and perceptions of their time in hospital. Healthcare workers participated in an online survey about their understanding of MROs and the care of patients with these microorganisms. Qualitative data were analysed using the COM-B framework, and were triangulated with the descriptive quantitative analysis.

Results

The overarching theme from the triangulated data was uncertainty amongst both patients and staff about MROs. Insufficient explanations from staff left patients lacking a proper understanding of their diagnosis, and patients felt that staff did not always follow isolation protocols. Staff felt they did not receive enough education on MROs. However, patients felt that the overall care they received was very good, and most valued the privacy gained from being in isolation.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that there is a need to focus on new strategies of communication with patients and staff education to improve understanding of MROs and increase adherence to protocols.
Toward ensuring care quality and safety across settings: examining time pressure in a nursing home with observational time motion study metrics based on the Omaha system
Authors: Kang Yu Jin , Mueller Christine A , Gaugler Joseph E , Mathiason Moore Michelle A , Monsen Karen A
Published: June 2023

Background

Meaningful data to determine safe and efficient nursing workload are needed. Reasoning a nurse can accomplish a finite number of interventions and location changes per hour, examination of time pressure using time motion study (TMS) methods will provide a comparable indication of safe and efficient workload for an individual nurse.

Methods

An observer shadowed 11 nurses at a 250-bed nursing home in the Southeastern United States and recorded 160 h of observations using TimeCaT, web-based TMS data recording software. Predefined Omaha System nursing interventions (N = 57) and locations (N = 8) were embedded within TimeCaT. The time-stamped data were downloaded from TimeCaT and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Five time pressure metrics were derived from previous TMS findings in acute care settings.

Results

Overall, nurses spent 66 s for each intervention, performed 65 interventions per hour, stayed 130 s at each location, changed locations 28 times per hour, and multitasked for 29% of working time. Computed hourly time pressure metrics enabled visualization of variability in time pressure metrics over time, with differences in multitasking by licensure, unit/role, and observation session time.

Conclusions

Nursing home nurses consistently experienced a high degree of time pressure, especially multitasking for one-third of their working time. To inform staffing decision making and improve the quality of care, resident outcomes, and nurse satisfaction, it is critical to identify ways to mitigate time pressure. Additional research is needed to refine and extend the use of the time pressure metrics.
Reproductive microbiome and cytokine profiles associated with fertility outcomes of postpartum beef cows
Authors: Smith Molly S , Hickman-Brown Kyle J , McAnally Brooke E , Oliveira Filho Ramiro V , de Melo Gabriela Dalmaso , Pohler Ky G , Poole Rebecca K
Published: June 2023

Shifts from commensal bacteria (for example, Lactobacillus in the phylum Firmicutes) within the reproductive tract have been associated with changes in local reproductive immune responses and decreased fertility in humans. The objective of this study was to characterize the microbiome and cytokine concentrations before artificial insemination (AI) in vaginal and uterine flushes from postpartum beef cows. Twenty Bos indicus-influenced beef cows (approximately 60 d postpartum and free of reproductive, health, or physical issues) were enrolled. The B. indicus prostaglandin (PG) 5-d + controlled intervaginal drug-releasing estrus synchronization protocol was initiated on day −8 of the study with timed AI on d0. Blood samples were collected on days −3, −1, and 28 via coccygeal venipuncture. Vaginal and uterine flushes were collected on days −3 and −1. Based on days 28 pregnancy status determined by transrectal ultrasonography, cows were identified as either Open (n = 13) or Pregnant (n = 7). Bacterial community analyses were conducted targeting the V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene. Cytokine analyses were performed using the RayBiotech Quantibody Bovine Cytokine Array Q1 and MyBioSource ELISA kits per the manufacturer’s instructions. Statistical analyses for bacteria relative abundance were conducted using PROC NPAR1WAY and for cytokine concentrations using PROC GLM in SAS 9.4. Uterine concentrations of interferon γ, interleukin (IL)1α, and IL21 were greater in Open than in Pregnant cows (P < 0.05). Regardless of pregnancy status, uterine IL13 increased from days −3 to −1 (9.76 vs. 39.48 ± 9.28 pg/mL, respectively; P < 0.05). Uterine relative abundance of the phylum Firmicutes decreased from days −3 to −1 in Open cows (60.4% ± 0.9% vs. 48.5% ± 3.2%; P = 0.004). In Open cows, the genus Blautia decreased in relative abundance within the uterus from days −3 to −1 (2.1% ± 0.2% vs. 0.9% ± 0.1%; P = 0.002). Uterine relative abundance of the phylum Tenericutes increased from days −3 to −1 in Pregnant cows (1.0% ± 0.1% vs. 7.6% ± 4.1%; P = 0.002). In Pregnant cows, the genus Ureaplasma tended to increase within the uterus from days −3 to −1 (0.08% ± 0.06% vs. 7.3% ± 4.1%; P = 0.054). These findings suggest a distinct difference in the reproductive microbiome and cytokine profiles before AI for resulting Open vs. Pregnant cows.
Analyzing captive breeding outcomes to inform reintroduction practice: lessons from the pookila (Pseudomys novaehollandiae)
Authors: Smith Kiarrah J , Evans Maldwyn J , Gordon Iain J , Pierson Jennifer C , Newport Jenny , Manning Adrian D
Published: June 2023

Captive breeding is often used to produce individuals for reintroduction programs in order to reestablish a species in an area where it has become locally extinct. To maximize the likelihood of establishing a self-sustaining population in the wild, an analysis of data from captive breeding programs is commonly undertaken to (1) increase the quantity of individuals and rate at which they can be released, and (2) maintain or improve the genetic and phenotypic quality of individuals. Here we demonstrate how the knowledge gained from these analyses can also be applied to decision-making during the design of subsequent reintroductions to further advance a reintroduction program toward success. We conducted an analysis of data from a captive breeding program for the threatened pookila (Pseudomys novaehollandiae, New Holland mouse) spanning 6 years. We found evidence for relationships between the reproductive output of pookila and behavioral, demographic, experiential, health, and physiological predictors. Based on a biological interpretation of these results, and with reference to a checklist of all known translocation tactics, we recommend 11 specific design elements to maximize the probability of pookila reproduction postrelease (thereby improving the likelihood of reintroduction success). These recommendations should be interpreted as hypotheses to be evaluated and refined in future reintroduction trials for the pookila. The uncertainty around the postrelease survival and reproduction of a species that is common in reintroduction practice warrants the creative use of existing data to inform adaptive management. Indeed, there is a wealth information in well-kept captive breeding records that is currently underused by reintroduction practitioners. The direct integration of knowledge derived from captive breeding (where available) with decision-making for reintroductions, as described here, will help navigate these uncertainties, which would benefit the conservation of both understudied and well-known species around the world.
Self-assessment toolkit for energy anti-money laundering: unveiling key lessons from high-profile case studies
Authors: Faccia Alessio
Published: June 2023

Money laundering is pervasive across industries, including the energy sector. This article examines nine high-profile money laundering cases in the energy industry from anti-money laundering (AML) perspective. By analysing these cases, criminal strategies and patterns used to launder money in the energy sector are uncovered. This research findings reveal that money launderers in the energy sector employ various tactics, such as shell companies, false invoicing and complex international transactions. It also identifies common patterns that emerge across multiple cases, including using intermediaries, exploiting regulatory loopholes and weak links in the supply chain. The analysis provides key insights that AML enforcement officials and regulators can use to develop more effective strategies for preventing money laundering in the energy industry. In conclusion, the research outlines a comprehensive framework that regulators can use to strengthen AML controls and reduce the risk of money laundering in the energy sector. The proposed utility function considers a weighted score toolkit for the countries’ self-assessment of the AML enforcement effectiveness in the energy sector.
Nitrate Reductase Assay for Rapid Determination of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Clinical Isolates
Authors: Yildirim Kubra , Atas Cemilenur , Tanyel Akcit Esra , Licina Majda , Koyuncu Ozyurt Ozlem , Gun Mehmet Akif , Simsek Ece , Coban Ahmet Yilmaz
Published: June 2023

Objective

To evaluate the performance of nitrate reductase assay (NRA), a rapid, colorimetric method for the determination of methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus isolates obtained from the culture collection of the Akdeniz University Hospital Central Laboratory, Antalya, Türkiye.

Materials and Methods

Identification for all 290 S aureus isolates at the species level was performed via matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight. Isolates were tested with NRA for methicillin resistance. The cefoxitin broth microdilution (BMD) method recommended by the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute was used as the reference method in the study. S aureus ATCC 29213 and S aureus ATCC 43300 strains were used for quality control.

Results

According to Food and Drug Administration criteria, the category agreement between NRA and BMD was found to be 100%. The essential agreement between both methods was determined to be 96.20%. There is no minor, major, or extremely major discrepancy between both methods.

Conclusion

The results show that NRA is a rapid, practical, and reliable colorimetric method for detecting MRSA.
AMPK promotes lysosomal and mitochondrial biogenesis via folliculin:FNIP1
Authors: Freemantle Jordana B , Hardie D Grahame
Published: June 2023

The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is known to maintain the integrity of cellular mitochondrial networks by (i) promoting fission, (ii) inhibiting fusion, (iii) promoting recycling of damaged components via mitophagy, (iv) enhancing lysosomal biogenesis to support mitophagy, and (v) promoting biogenesis of new mitochondrial components. While the AMPK targets underlying the first three of these effects are known, a recent paper suggests that direct phosphorylation of the folliculin-interacting protein 1 (FNIP1) by AMPK may be involved in the remaining two.
Spatially resolved dust properties and quasar-galaxy decomposition of a hyper-luminous infrared galaxy at z = 4.4
Authors: Tsukui Takafumi , Wisnioski Emily , Krumholz Mark R , Battisti Andrew
Published: June 2023

We report spatially resolved dust properties of the quasar host galaxy BRI1335−0417 at redshift z = 4.4 constrained by the Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimetre Array observations. The dust temperature map, derived from a greybody fit to rest frame 90 and 161 μm continuum images, shows a steep increase towards the centre, reaching 57.1 ± 0.3 K and a flat median profile at the outer regions of ∼38 K. Image decomposition analysis reveals the presence of a point source in both dust continuum images spatially coincident with the highest temperature peak and the optical quasar position, which we attribute to warm dust heated by an active galactic nucleus (AGN). We show that a model including this warm component along with cooler dust heated by star formation describes the global spectral energy distribution better than a single-component model, with dust temperatures of 87.1$^{+34.1}_{-18.3}$ K (warm component) and 52.6$^{+10.3}_{-11.0}$ K (cold component). The star-formation rate (SFR) estimated from the cold dust component is $1700_{-400}^{+500}\ \mathrm{M}_\odot$ yr−1, a factor of three smaller than previous estimates due to a large AGN contribution ($53^{+14}_{-15}$ per cent). The unresolved warm dust component also explains the steep temperature gradient, as the temperature profile derived after the point source subtraction is flat. The point source subtraction also reduces the estimated central SFR surface density ΣSFR by over a factor of three. With this correction, spatially resolved measurements of ΣSFR and the surface gas mass density Σgas form a roughly linear sequence in the Kennicutt–Schmidt diagram with a constant gas depletion time of 50–200 Myr. The demonstrated AGN-host galaxy decomposition reveals the importance of spatially resolved data for accurate measurements of quasar host galaxy properties, including dust temperature, SFRs, and size.
Observational signatures of circumbinary discs – I. Kinematics
Authors: Calcino Josh , Price Daniel J , Pinte Christophe , Garg Himanshi , Norfolk Brodie J , Christiaens Valentin , Li Hui , Teague Richard
Published: June 2023

We present five morphological and kinematic criteria to aid in asserting the binary nature of a protoplanetary disc, based on 3D hydrodynamical simulations of circumbinary discs post-processed with Monte Carlo radiative transfer. We find that circumbinary discs may be identified by (i) a central cavity, (ii) spiral arms both in and outside of their central cavities, (iii) non-localized perturbations in their iso-velocity curves, (iv) asymmetry between the lines of maximum speed of the blueshifted and redshifted wings, and (v) asymmetry between the area of the blueshifted and redshifted wings. We provide quantitative metrics for the last two criteria that can be used, in conjunction with the morphological criteria, to signal whether a protoplanetary disc is likely to be a circumbinary disc.
TOI-908: a planet at the edge of the Neptune desert transiting a G-type star
Authors: Hawthorn Faith , Bayliss Daniel , Armstrong David J , Fernández Fernández Jorge , Osborn Ares , Sousa Sérgio G , Adibekyan Vardan , Davoult Jeanne , Collins Karen A , Alibert Yann , Barros Susana C C , Bouchy François , Brogi Matteo , Ciardi David R , Daylan Tansu , Delgado Mena Elisa , Demangeon Olivier D S , Díaz Rodrigo F , Gan Tianjun , Horne Keith , Hoyer Sergio , Jenkins Jon M , Jensen Eric L N , Kielkopf John F , Kostov Veselin , Latham David W , Levine Alan M , Lillo-Box Jorge , Nielsen Louise D , Osborn Hugh P , Ricker George R , Rodrigues José , Santos Nuno C , Schwarz Richard P , Seager Sara , Serrano Bell Juan , Shporer Avi , Stockdale Chris , Strøm Paul A , Tenenbaum Peter , Udry Stéphane , Wheatley Peter J , Winn Joshua N , Ziegler Carl
Published: June 2023

We present the discovery of an exoplanet transiting TOI-908 (TIC-350153977) using data from TESS sectors 1, 12, 13, 27, 28, and 39. TOI-908 is a T = 10.7 mag G-dwarf (Teff  =  5626 ± 61 K) solar-like star with a mass of 0.950 ± 0.010 M⊙ and a radius of 1.028 ± 0.030 R⊙. The planet, TOI-908 b, is a 3.18 ± 0.16 R⊕ planet in a 3.18 d orbit. Radial velocity measurements from HARPS reveal TOI-908 b has a mass of approximately 16.1 ± 4.1 M⊕, resulting in a bulk planetary density of $2.7^{+0.2}_{-0.4}$ g cm−3. TOI-908 b lies in a sparsely populated region of parameter space known as the Neptune desert. The planet likely began its life as a sub-Saturn planet before it experienced significant photoevaporation due to X-rays and extreme ultraviolet radiation from its host star, and is likely to continue evaporating, losing a significant fraction of its residual envelope mass.
Stellar spots cause measurable variations in atmospheric metallicity
Authors: Wilson Tanner A , Casey Andrew R
Published: June 2023

To accurately measure a star’s atmospheric parameters and chemical abundances, it is crucial to have high-quality spectra. Analysing the detailed chemical abundances of groups of stars can help us better understand nucleosynthesis, galactic chemical enrichment, and stellar evolution. In this study, we explored whether stellar spots can affect a star’s inferred metallicity and, if so, where the impact is the strongest. To investigate this, we created synthetic infrared spectra that included stellar spots for a sample of main-sequence stars younger than the sun. We then applied two models to the data: one that accounted for spots and the other that did not. From this, we can determine the bias introduced when fitting spotted spectra with a non-spotted model and how this bias varies with different parameters. Our findings revealed that fitting spotted spectra with a non-spotted model can introduce a scatter of up to 0.05 dex in the inferred metallicity, especially for stars with high levels of spot coverage. This bias is similar in magnitude to other relevant effects, such as atomic diffusion, radiative levitation, or non-local thermodynamic equilibrium. We also found that the effect is most pronounced in young stars and decreases with age. These results suggest that stellar spots can introduce a systematic uncertainty in metallicity that is not currently accounted for in spectroscopic analysis. This could potentially limit scientific inferences for population-level studies of young stars and differential abundance analyses.
Sodium enhancement in evolved cataclysmic variables
Authors: Yamaguchi Natsuko , El-Badry Kareem , Rodriguez Antonio C , Gull Maude , Roulston Benjamin R , Vanderbosch Zachary P
Published: June 2023

We present follow-up spectroscopy of 21 cataclysmic variables (CVs) with evolved secondaries and ongoing or recently terminated mass transfer. Evolutionary models predict that the secondaries should have anomalous surface abundances owing to nuclear burning in their cores during their main-sequence evolution and subsequent envelope stripping by their companion white dwarfs. To test these models, we measure sodium (Na) abundances of the donors from the Fraunhofer ‘D’ doublet. Accounting for interstellar absorption, we find that all objects in our sample have enhanced Na abundances. We measure 0.3 dex ≲ [Na/H] ≲ 1.5 dex across the sample, with a median [Na/H]  = 0.956 dex, i.e. about an order of magnitude enhancement over solar values. To interpret these values, we run Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics binary evolution models of CVs in which mass transfer begins just as the donor leaves the main sequence. These generically predict Na enhancement in donors with initial donor masses $\gtrsim 1\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$, consistent with our observations. In the models, Na enrichment occurs in the donors’ cores via the NeNa cycle near the end of their main-sequence evolution. Na-enhanced material is exposed when the binaries reach orbital periods of a few hours. Donors with higher initial masses are predicted to have higher Na abundances at fixed orbital period owing to their higher core temperatures during main-sequence evolution. The observed [Na/H] values are on average ≈0.3 dex higher than predicted by the models. Surface abundances of evolved CV donors provide a unique opportunity to study nuclear burning products in the cores of intermediate-mass stars.