bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geranylgeranyl Pyrophosphate Promotes Profibrotic Factors and Collagen‐Specific Chaperone HSP47 in Fibroblasts
Authors: Ross Gracious R. , Vodanovic‐Jankovic Sanja , Benjamin Ivor J.
Published: December 2024

Fibrosis, characterised by excessive extracellular matrix deposition, contributes to both organ failure and significant mortality worldwide. Whereas fibroblasts are activated into myofibroblasts, marked by phenotypic factors such as α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), periostin, fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and heat shock protein 47 (HSP47), the cellular processes of trans‐differentiation for fibrosis development remain poorly understood. Herein, we hypothesised that the molecular signalling of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP), a crucial biochemical molecule for protein prenylation, is essential in the regulation of profibrotic mechanisms for fibroblast‐to‐myofibroblast activation. To test this hypothesis, we demonstrated pharmacological inhibition of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate synthase (GGPS1) significantly decreased TGF‐β1‐dependent myofibroblast differentiation assessed by reduced α‐SMA, periostin, FAP and HSP47 expression. Exogenous GGPP in the presence of GGPS1 inhibition restored TGF‐β1‐induced differentiation, supporting posttranslational requirements of GGPP modification during myofibroblast differentiation. Selective inhibition of either geranylgeranyl transferase or farnesyl transferase significantly impacted TGF‐β1‐induced myofibroblast α‐SMA and HSP47 expression. The importance of protein prenylation as a key regulator of myofibroblast differentiation was remarkably revealed by an unexpected decrease in HSP47 expression. In contrast, direct HSP47 inhibition not only suppressed TGF‐β1‐induced α‐SMA expression but surprisingly could not be rescued using exogenous GGPP. A selective role for the ER‐resident chaperone HSP47 expression downstream of GGPP was suggested when the effects of GGPS1 inhibition on periostin expression were counteracted by GGPP and geranylgeranyl transferase inhibition. Taken together, our findings underscore for the first time the functional role of cholesterol synthesis‐independent GGPP‐dependent pathway in fibroblast‐to‐myofibroblast transition and open new potential therapeutic targets for antifibrosis therapies.
A Role for the Hippo/YAP1 Pathway in the Regulation of In Vitro Vasculogenic Mimicry in Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Roy Marie‐Eve , Elimam Rahil , Zgheib Alain , Annabi Borhane
Published: December 2024

The Hippo pathway plays a tumorigenic role in highly angiogenic glioblastoma (GBM), whereas little is known about clinically relevant Hippo pathway inhibitors' ability to target adaptive mechanisms involved in GBM chemoresistance. Their molecular impact was investigated here in vitro against an alternative process to tumour angiogenesis termed vasculogenic mimicry (VM) in GBM‐derived cell models. In silico analysis of the downstream Hippo signalling members YAP1, TAZ and TEAD1 transcript levels in low‐grade glioblastoma (LGG) and GBM tumour tissues was performed using GEPIA. TAZ transcript levels did not differ between the healthy and tumour tissues data analysed. In contrast, YAP1 transcript levels were elevated in GBM tissues, whereas TEAD1 levels were high in both LGG and GBM. All three Hippo pathway inhibitors tested, GNE7883, VT107 and IAG933 effectively inhibited U87 and U251 cell migration and in vitro VM as assessed on Cultrex matrix. YAP1 gene and protein expression were induced upon VM, and its translocation to the nucleus was inhibited by the Hippo pathway inhibitors tested. SiRNA‐mediated transient silencing of YAP1 repressed cell migration, VM formation and CTGF and Cyr61 transcription. In conclusion, targeting of VM using Hippo pathway inhibitors could help circumvent GBM chemoresistance and effectively complement other brain cancer treatments.
Contraceptive and Pregnancy Decision‐Making Autonomy and Health Care Experiences Among Women With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Vallury Kari Dee , Tucker Victoria , Sheeran Nicola
Published: December 2024

Background

There is currently limited research exploring the extent to which women with an intellectual disability experience autonomy over contraception, pregnancy timing and pregnancy outcome decisions. Previous studies have highlighted inequities in sexual and reproductive health outcomes. However, barriers and facilitators of reproductive autonomy for women with an intellectual disability across the reproductive journey, including health care experiences, are poorly described; this is the focus of the current study.

Methods

Ten women with intellectual disabilities participated in focus groups or individual interviews where they discussed their experiences of accessing sexual and reproductive health services and making reproductive health decisions. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three themes elucidate how a lack of sexual and reproductive health information and violence impacted many participants' ability to control timing of conception and make informed pregnancy outcome decisions. The first theme describes contraceptive literacy as a barrier to reproductive autonomy. Most participants received no contraception or reproductive health education prior to their first pregnancy. While most women were aware of common forms of contraception and pregnancy options, their contraceptive knowledge was incomplete or incorrect. The second theme explores how most participants experienced agency over pregnancy outcome decisions, though informed decision‐making was hampered by reproductive coercion and abuse, delayed pregnancy detection and insufficient information about all pregnancy options. The third theme identifies health professionals as pivotal in empowering reproductive agency and facilitating informed decision‐making.

Conclusions

Women with intellectual disabilities demonstrate the willingness and the ability to make informed and autonomous reproductive health decisions when appropriately supported with care and information. However, they face reproductive coercion and abuse and are often required to overcome numerous systemic challenges to assert their reproductive rights. Significant efforts are needed to better understand and address barriers to informed reproductive decision‐making.
Methylene‐to‐methyl ratio variability in Ryugu samples: Clues to a heterogeneous aqueous alteration
Authors: Dionnet Zélia , Djouadi Zahia , Delaye Lukas , Caron Lucas , Brunetto Rosario , Aléon‐Toppani Alice , Lantz Cateline , Rubino Stefano , Baklouti Donia , Nakamura Tomoki , Borondics Ferenc , Sandt Christophe , Matsumoto Megumi , Amano Kana , Morita Tomoyo , Yurimoto Hisayoshi , Noguchi Takaaki , Okazaki Ryuji , Yabuta Hikaru , Naraoka Hiroshi , Sakamoto Kanako , Tachibana Shogo , Yada Toru , Nishimura Masahiro , Nakato Aiko , Miyazaki Akiko , Yogata Kasumi , Abe Masanao , Okada Tatsuaki , Usui Tomohiro , Yoshikawa Makoto , Saiki Takanao , Tanaka Satoshi , Terui Fuyuto , Nakazawa Satoru , Watanabe Seiichiro , Tsuda Yuichi ,   the Hayabusa2‐initial‐analysis Stone team
Published: December 2024

Understanding the processes of aqueous alteration within primitive bodies is crucial for unraveling the complex history of early planetesimals. To better identify the signs of this process and its consequences, we have studied the heterogeneity at a micrometric scale of the structure of the aliphatic organic compounds and its relationship to its mineralogical environment. Here, we report an analysis performed on two micrometric grains of Ryugu (C0002‐FC027 and C0002‐FC028). The samples were crushed in a diamond compression cell and analyzed using high‐spatial resolution Fourier Transform InfraRed (FT‐IR) hyperspectral imaging measurements conducted in transmission mode. We showed here the spatial distributions of the main components and the structural heterogeneity of the aliphatic organic matter highlighting a micrometer‐scale variability in the methylene‐to‐methyl ratio. Moreover, we connected this heterogeneity to the one of the phyllosilicate band positions. Our findings indicate that the organic matter within Ryugu's micrometric grains underwent varying degrees of aqueous alteration in distinct microenvironments resulting in an elongation of the length of their aliphatic chains, and/or a reduction in their branching and/or cross‐linking.
Genotype‐by‐Environment Effects of Cis‐Variations in the Atgl Promoter Mediate the Divergent Pattern of Phenotypic Plasticity for Temperature Adaptation in Two Congeneric Oyster Species
Authors: Du Mingyang , Wang Chaogang , Jiang Zhuxiang , Cong Rihao , Li Ao , Wang Wei , Zhang Guofan , Li Li
Published: December 2024

Phenotypic plasticity plays an essential role in adaptive evolution. However, the molecular mechanisms of how genotype‐by‐environment interaction (G × E) effects shape phenotypic plasticity in marine organisms remain poorly understood. The crucial temperature‐responsive trait triacylglycerol (TAG) content and its major gene adipose triglyceride lipase (Atgl) expression have divergent plastic patterns in two congeneric oyster species (Crassostrea gigas and Crassostrea angulata) to adapt to relative‐cold/northern and relative‐warm/southern habitats, respectively. In this study, eight putative loci were identified in the Atgl promoter region (cis‐variations) between wild C. gigas and C. angulata that exhibited differential environmental responsiveness (G × E). The G and G × E effects of each locus were further dissected by measuring the Atgl gene expression of different genotypes in response to temperature changes at the cellular and organismal levels. Two transcription factors, non‐environmentally responsive non‐POU domain‐containing octamer‐binding protein (Nono) and environmentally responsive heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (Hnrnpk), were screened for binding to g.‐1804 (G locus) and g.‐1919 (G + G × E locus), respectively. The specificity of Nono binding to the C. angulata allele mediated the G effects of g.‐1804, and the lower environmental sensitivity of Hnrnpk in C. angulata mediated the G × E effects of g.‐1919, jointly regulating the trade‐offs between higher constitutive and lower plastic expression of Atgl gene expression in C. angulata. This study served as an experimental case to reveal how the genetic variations with G and (or) G × E effects propagate into the divergent pattern of plasticity in environmental adaptive traits, which provides new insights into predicting the adaptability of marine organisms to future climate changes.
Beyond one‐size‐fits‐all: Reimagining well‐being programmes in medical education through student expectations and agency
Authors: Kajee Nabeela , Archer Elize
Published: December 2024

Kajee & Archer comment on Tan et al.'s exploration of student well‐being programs, outlining additional implications for medical schools.
The Negative Regulators of the Basal Defence WRKY7, WRKY11 and WRKY17 Modulate the Jasmonic Acid Pathway and an Alternative Splicing Regulatory Network in Response to Pseudomonas syringae in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Fuenzalida‐Valdivia Isabel , Herrera‐Vásquez Ariel , Gangas María Victoria , Sáez‐Vásquez Julio , Álvarez José Miguel , Meneses Claudio , Blanco‐Herrera Francisca
Published: December 2024

In Arabidopsis thaliana, the transcription factors WRKY7, WRKY11 and WRKY17 act as negative defence regulators against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000. However, their coordinated regulation of gene expression has yet to be fully explored. In this study, we conducted a transcriptomic analysis on the triple mutant wrky7/11/17 in response to Pst DC3000 at 0, 3 and 24 h post‐inoculation (hpi). Our results suggest that at early infection stages (0 and 3 hpi), WRKY7, WRKY11 and WRKY17 significantly repress a group of genes involved in signal perception and transduction, including receptor‐like kinases. Furthermore, at later stages of interaction (24 hpi), these transcription factors induce genes related to the biosynthesis and signalling of the jasmonic acid (JA) pathway. Further infection experiments with Pst DC3000 in plants treated with methyl jasmonate (a JA analogue) and infections with Botrytis cinerea, a pathogen against which JA‐mediated responses are crucial for effective defence, support this proposal. Moreover, we analysed the role of WRKY7, WRKY11 and WRKY17 in alternative splicing regulation. A comparison between differentially expressed (DEG) and spliced (DAS) genes revealed that over 80% of DAS events do not occur in conjunction with overall changes in gene expression. Alternative splicing events were found in genes with functions in splicing and the JA pathway, such as ALY4, PRP40A, JAZ3 and JAZ10. These results suggest that WRKY7, WRKY11 and WRKY17 can also participate in this layer of gene expression regulation to modulate immunity negatively.
Tiny but mighty? Overview of a decade of research on nectar bacteria
Authors: Quevedo‐Caraballo Sergio , de Vega Clara , Lievens Bart , Fukami Tadashi , Álvarez‐Pérez Sergio
Published: December 2024

An emerging focus of research at the intersection of botany, zoology, and microbiology is the study of floral nectar as a microbial habitat, referred to as the nectar microbiome, which can alter plant–pollinator interactions. Studies on these microbial communities have primarily focused on yeasts, and it was only about a decade ago that bacteria began to be studied as widespread inhabitants of floral nectar. This review aims to give an overview of the current knowledge on nectar bacteria, with emphasis on evolutionary origin, dispersal mode, effects on nectar chemistry and plant–animal interactions, community assembly, agricultural applications, and their use as model systems in ecological research. We further outline gaps in our understanding of the ecological significance of these microorganisms, their response to environmental changes, and the potential cascading effects.
Algorithmic Management and Workplace Bullying: The Relevance of Specific Employee Experiences Across Work Environments
Authors: Reimann Mareike , Diewald Martin
Published: December 2024

Algorithmic management (AM) is regarded as a crucial advancement in current workplaces. AM has the potential to alter job tasks and reorganize entire work processes, thus affecting the working conditions of employees. Nonetheless, research on the possible consequences for workplace relationships remains limited. This study narrows this gap by investigating the association between AM and perceived workplace bullying by supervisors or co‐workers. Based on multilevel analyses of a sample of 4929 employees in 160 workplaces derived from German linked employer–employee data, specific experiences with AM contribute more to perceptions of workplace bullying than the mere frequency of involvement. Negative experiences such as reduced control and design options, violation of privacy and constant monitoring, are associated with the perception of bullying. Shared experiences of employees within workplaces are additionally important in explaining bullying. The findings suggest a nondeterministic nature of AM, with variations in its implementation across different work environments.
Revealing the Hidden Role of Capacitance in the Water Flow Through Plants to the Atmosphere
Authors: Fuchs Marcel
Published: December 2024

Summary statement

The overlooked role of capacitance is revealed theoretically for vapor flow and by dimensional analogy for liquid flow. It combines with conductance to attribute distinctly the physiological and physical contributions to the quantitative formulation of plant transpiration and sap flow.
Effects of size and amount and burial depth on early decomposition of maize straw and the links to microbial and nematode communities in the Mollisol of China
Authors: Zhang Futao , Wang Tianshu , Jiang Heng , Zhang Bin , Han Ya , Yao Shuihong
Published: December 2024

Crop straw is often incorporated into soil at different depths via agricultural practices like tillage, with regional variation in straw decomposition. However, the relative role of management practices on straw decomposition remains unclear. Here, a 5‐month field experiment using litterbags was conducted in three cold sites within China's Mollisol region, with two burial depths (15 and 30 cm) and four maize straw treatments (big straw and small straw at the amounts of 0.5% and 1.0%, respectively). The objectives were to determine the effects of the size and amount and burial depth of straw on its decomposition, microbial and nematode communities, and to identify the key factors regulating straw decomposition. Straw mass loss was affected by straw treatments rather than burial depths in all sites. Specifically, it was the lowest for 0.5% big straw among four straw treatments. Small straw lost more mass than big straw only at the amount of 0.5%, with the variations declining and even disappearing in the site experiencing relatively high temperatures. Microbial biomss and nematode abundance of specific groups were affected by the size and amount of straw in some cases, where the presence of 0.5% big straw corresponded with the lowest microbial biomass and the highest nematode abundance. All bacterial and fungal biomass and some nematode abundances were higher at 30 cm than at 15 cm in the sites with relatively low temperature. The abundance and Shannon index of nematodes were correlated with Gram‐positive bacterial biomass and microbial diversity and evenness index positively, and with other microbial biomass negatively. The straw decomposition explained 83.60% and 77.25% of variations in microbial and nematode community composition, respectively. These results suggest that the physical traits rather than burial depth dominate straw decomposition via changing microbial growth and their interaction with specific nematodes under similar climatic conditions, and the effects of straw physical traits are changed by climate on a large regional scale. Reducing the size and amount is a potential strategy stimulating straw decomposition, particularly in the cold regions.
Leveraging Sports for Integration: A Study on Ukrainian Teenage War Refugees' Social Inclusion through Sports Programs
Authors: Kölbel Martin
Published: December 2024

This study examines the influence of sport initiatives inside and outside educational facilities on the subjective integration of Ukrainian refugees of war into three different receiving host countries (i.e. Austria, Germany and England). Through content this study analyzes interviews with refugees (N=10) to examine the perceived impact of sports activities on key aspects of integration, such as social cohesion, a sense of belonging, and cultural adaptation.Findings reveal that engagement in sports contributes significantly to participants' subjective integration, with both educational and non-educational initiatives playing a crucial role in facilitating this process. While sports programs within educational institutions provide structured opportunities for skill development and social interaction, initiatives outside formal education settings foster informal social networks and cultural exchange. Since Ukrainian refugees have shown resilience and adaptability, actively engaging in social activities within their host communities, social engagement serves as a vital pathway to their integration into the fabric of European societies.The present study highlights the importance of accessible and inclusive sports programs that cater to diverse needs, as well as the need for comprehensive support services to complement sports-based integration efforts. Overall, findings underscore the potential of sports initiatives as a valuable resource for promoting the integration of refugees into host communities, while, on the other hand, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that addresses the multifaceted challenges faced by refugee populations.
Torsion‐free connections of second‐order maximally superintegrable systems
Authors: Vollmer Andreas
Published: December 2024

Second‐order (maximally) conformally superintegrable systems play an important role as models of mechanical systems, including systems such as the Kepler–Coulomb system and the isotropic harmonic oscillator. This paper is dedicated to understanding non‐ and semi‐degenerate systems. We obtain “projective flatness” results for two torsion‐free connections naturally associated to such systems. This viewpoint sheds some light onto the interrelationship of properly and conformally (second‐order maximally) superintegrable systems from a geometrical perspective. It is shown that the semi‐degenerate secondary structure tensor can be viewed as the Ricci curvature of a natural torsion‐free connection defined by the primary structure tensor (and similarly in the non‐degenerate case). It is also shown that properly semi‐degenerate systems are characterised, similar to the non‐degenerate case, by the vanishing of the secondary structure tensor.
On noncommutative leapfrog map
Authors: Wang Bao , Li Shi‐Hao
Published: December 2024

We investigate the integrability of the noncommutative leapfrog map in this paper. First, we derive the explicit formula for the noncommutative leapfrog map and corresponding discrete zero‐curvature equation by employing the concept of noncommutative cross‐ratio. Then we revisit this discrete map, as well as its continuous limit, from the perspective of noncommutative Laurent bi‐orthogonal polynomials. Finally, the Poisson structure for this discrete noncommutative map is formulated with the help of a noncommutative network. Through these constructions, we aim to enhance our understanding of the integrability properties of the noncommutative leapfrog map and its related mathematical structures.
Using Pseudotime Marching for the Solution of Harmonic Balance Problems
Authors: Frey Christian , Backhaus Jan , Ashcroft Graham , Geiser Georg , Winhart Benjamin , Stüer Heinrich
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to study approaches to implement implicit pseudotime marching for the harmonic balance system in the frequency domain. We first give a motivation for using pseudotime marching as a solution technique. It turns out that, when the discretization errors of the pseudospectral time-derivative and the pseudotime derivative are neglected, the harmonic balance solution converges to a stable periodic flow, provided that the initial solution is sufficiently close to a stable periodic solution. This motivates the choice of a robust pseudotime marching approach, e.g., an implicit solver based on backward Euler integration. This approach requires the Jacobian of the harmonic balance residual. As for the steady problem, the Jacobian can be approximated without changing the final solution as long as the solver converges. Therefore, a central question is which simplifications are appropriate in terms of the overall efficiency and robustness of the solver. As has been shown in the literature, the spectral time-derivative operator should be taken into account in the implicit system. On the other hand, the linearization of the flow residual can be simplified to a certain extent, especially if the system is solved in the frequency domain. In this paper, we show that, up to terms which scale with the amplitude of the disturbances, the linear system matrix is the sum of a scalar diagonal and a block diagonal matrix with identical blocks for each harmonic. The deviation from this structure is due to to the nonlinearity of the unsteady flow problem. We show that when the unsteadiness is small, the nonlinear coupling terms can be neglected in the implicit solver and the resulting special matrix structure can be exploited to massively speed up the solver. In contrast, when a strong disturbance is simulated, this simplification can lead to significant losses in robustness. To illustrate our findings, we apply the implemented methods to predict the flow response to a disturbance prescribed at the inlet of a transonic compressor. When the disturbance amplitude is increased, a strong oscillation is induced, and the harmonic balance solver converges only when the nonlinear coupling between the harmonics is taken into account.
Multi-Lattice Topology Optimization Via Generative Lattice Modeling
Authors: Chen Jiangce , Baldwin Martha , Prabha Narra Sneha , McComb Christopher
Published: December 2024

Additive manufacturing enables the fabrication of multi-lattice structures, an advanced design approach featuring heterogeneous lattices at the mesoscale which are arranged to achieve a diverse and purposeful distribution of material properties at the macroscale. Compared to uniform lattice structures, multi-lattice structures permit greater design freedom and a larger design space, which makes it possible to achieve superior structure performance. However, the expanded design space introduces a substantial increase in the complexity that must be managed in order to achieve a multi-lattice structure solution. However, there is a lack of design automation approaches that can tractably create multi-lattice structures. This article introduces an innovative multi-scale topology optimization (TO) framework, called multi-lattice topology optimization with variational autoencoder (MulaTOVA), that is capable of concurrently addressing macro- and mesoscale design requirements. Neural networks (NNs) are employed in this framework to jointly represent the structural topology at the macroscale and the lattice heterogeneity at the mesoscale, enabling simultaneous optimization through the updating of the NNs’ weights. The connectivity between lattices is implicitly constrained by constraining the NNs, while the diversity of the lattices is guaranteed through a generative lattice model which is trained over a large lattice dataset. The performances of various NN types are compared, and Fourier neural operators (FNOs) demonstrated the best flexibility in balancing lattice diversity and local connectivity. Furthermore, our results show that the multi-lattice TO structures achieve a higher stiffness-to-weight ratio than solid TO structures.
An Ultrasound-Guided Miniature Hand-Eye Integrated Robot for Percutaneous Needle Placement
Authors: Li Haiyuan , He Tian , Yang Mingda , Chao Minghui , Zhang Qinjian , Song Hongxing
Published: December 2024

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous puncture technology has advantages such as intra-operative real-time imaging, noninvasive operation, high targeting accuracy, nonionizing radiation, and low cost. However, traditional percutaneous puncture surgery requires doctors to hold ultrasound probes or puncture needles, which causes complex operations. In this article, by integrating ultrasound and needle insertion mechanisms, an ultrasound-guided miniature puncture robot is proposed. This robot can work without an external navigation or industrial or cooperative manipulator after hand-eye calibration and acknowledge the coordinate relationship between the ultrasound image and the robot tip. A three degrees-of-freedom (DoFs) of in-plane mechanism using linear actuators is designed so that the puncture needle can always be scanned by ultrasound during the operation, ensuring real-time monitoring. The method of planning puncture path, modeling the robot kinematics, and ultrasound hand-eye calibration are proposed. To track a needle in an ultrasound image, the image recognition and filter algorithm for the needle tip are presented. The accuracy of the robot puncture operation is verified by point targeting and path tracking experiments in the water tank and phantom, and the puncture error of the robot is 1.5 ± 0.5 mm in the water tank, 1.98 mm in the abdominal phantom, and 1.41 mm in the breast phantom. Finally, the work of this article effectively improves the availability and effectiveness of the ultrasound-guided puncture robot.
Influence of Sb content on carrier transport and thermoelectric properties of flexible Bi–Sb films
Authors: Ben Zhihao , Song Guihong , Chen Yu , Wu Yusheng , You Junhua
Published: December 2024

In this study, the Bi–Sb films with different Sb content on silicon and polyimide (PI) substrates were successfully fabricated via high vacuum magnetron sputtering and the carrier transport and thermoelectric properties were studied. As the Sb content increased, the carrier concentration, electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and power factor of deposited Bi–Sb films initially increased and then decreased at room temperature. The maximum Seebeck coefficient and power factor reached −108.90 μV K−1 and 0.133mW m−1 K−2 for the Bi84Sb16 film at room temperature. The electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and power factor of deposited Bi–Sb films increased with increasing energy gap. Whether bending toward or bending back toward, the relative electrical conductivity of the films decreased with increasing bending angle. When the bending angle was less than 90°, the electrical conductivity of the films decreased very little. However, the electrical conductivity of the films exhibited an obvious reduction when the bending angle exceeded 90°. The relative electrical conductivity of the deposited films under bending toward and bending back toward decreased by 4% and 8% under 180° bending angle, respectively. Compared with bending toward, the electrical conductivity of the films bending back toward (tensile) decreases even more at the same bending angle. The electrical conductivity of the films bending toward changed little and remained 94.1% after bending 1000 times at the radius of 3 mm. The maximum power density of a flexible thermoelectric generator for Bi84Sb16 film was 0.672 and 0.8644 W m−2 at ΔT = 30 and 39 K, respectively.
Passive acoustic monitoring for seabed bubble flows: Case of shallow methane seeps at Laspi Bay (Black Sea)
Authors: Malakhova T. V. , Budnikov A. A. , Ivanova I. N. , Khurchak A. I. , Khurchak A. P. , Krasnova E. A.
Published: December 2024

This research quantifies the gas release rate from a natural shallow methane seep site in the Laspi Bay (Black Sea), whose origin is thermocatalytic. An adaptive single bubble identification technique was applied to analyze gas volume and release rates from passive acoustic data. Gas from the seafloor was emitted by single bubbles that occurred in clusters. The frequency of an individual bubble (830 Hz) was proportional to the bubble's radius (0.4 cm), which coincides with the optical method. The active seepage phases lasted longer than the pauses between bubble clusters. Distribution of bubble clusters and pauses duration for all seasons deviated significantly from a normal distribution. The daily and interseasonal periodicities of gas emissions were quite similar. The bubble gas flow rate ranged from 26 to 37 liters per day. Short-term water pressure fluctuations (up to a Δp of 46 mbar) caused by sea swell can impact gas flow variability. Continuous recording of hydrological parameters showed that average dissolved oxygen concentrations and salinity at the background station were slightly higher than those above the seep site. However, the data did not demonstrate significant environmental effects, such as hypoxia or submarine freshwater inflow, which was observed in other seepages areas.
Effects of sediment properties, distance from source, and frequency weighting on sound pressure and sound pressure kurtosis for marine airgun signatures
Authors: Sertlek H. Özkan , Peng Yaxi , Ainslie Michael A. , von Benda-Beckmann Alexander M. , Halvorsen Michele B. , Koessler Matthew W. , Küsel Elizabeth T. , MacGillivray Alexander O. , Tsouvalas Apostolos
Published: December 2024

Investigation of sound pressure waveforms helps the selection of appropriate metrics to evaluate their effects on marine life in relation to noise thresholds. As marine animals move farther away from a sound source, the temporal characteristics of sound pressure may be influenced by interactions with the sediment and the sea surface. Sound pressure kurtosis and root-mean-square (rms) sound pressure are quantitative characteristics that depend on the shape of a sound pulse, with kurtosis related to the qualitative characteristic “impulsiveness.” After verifying the propagation modeling approach using selected test cases from the JAM Workshop held in Cambridge, UK, in 2022, the time dispersion values of pressure signals produced by an individual airgun shot across various sediment types are analyzed. The results reveal that there is significant pulse dispersion when the seabed consists of predominantly sand-type sediments: i.e., the airgun signal duration increases considerably over long distances, thus decreasing the kurtosis of a sequence of pulses, whereas the pulse dispersion is more limited for clay and silt-type sediments. The range variations of frequency weighted kurtosis and rms sound pressure differ from those of the unweighted kurtosis, depending on the corresponding lower and upper roll-off frequencies corresponding to different marine animal groups.
Coach-Reported Knowledge, Skills, Barriers, and Facilitators to Including Autistic Athletes in CrossFit
Authors: Watkins Janette M. , Munn Emily E. , Pangelinan Melissa M.
Published: December 2024

With over 14,000 CrossFit affiliates worldwide, there is untapped potential to serve many autistic athletes. However, current CrossFit coaching certifications and continuing education programs lack autism-specific training. This study assessed CrossFit affiliates’ capacity to work with autistic athletes, evaluated coach knowledge, and identified perceived barriers and facilitators to participation. Two surveys were conducted. The first, completed by 97 CrossFit affiliate owners and coaches, found that over 90% of respondents were interested in working with autistic athletes and enhancing their coaching capacity. Additionally, 59.79% indicated they had the necessary knowledge and skills to work with autistic athletes. The second survey, targeting those interested in or already working with autistic athletes (n = 20), showed that experience working with autistic athletes was positively correlated with a better understanding core characteristics of autism and related physical health issues. Consistent barriers included a lack of training/confidence, parent/athlete interest, financial support, and transportation. Facilitators included adequate coaching/support staff, behavior supports, and family/community involvement. The findings highlight a strong interest in including autistic athletes in CrossFit but also reveal significant gaps in coaches’ knowledge, skills, and confidence. Addressing these gaps is crucial to increasing the capacity for autistic athletes to participate in CrossFit and other functional fitness programs.
Talking to Win: The Impact of Communication on Performance in Esports
Authors: Maier Torsten
Published: December 2024

In the fast-paced world of esports, effective communication is crucial for team success. This study investigates the impact of communication styles on players’ perception of performance within university-affiliated Overwatch esports teams. In total, 10 teams participated. Each team completed two scrimmages, separated by an intervention. Results revealed both a significant increase in the perceived frequency of declarative communication during team fights and perceived improvements in response speed and overall team performance ratings, suggesting that streamlined, direct communication can enhance team coordination. Qualitative data further supported these findings, with a majority of players reporting positive impacts on communication effectiveness and team performance. These findings support the hypothesis that declarative communication improves performance by facilitating clearer and more efficient decision-making processes.
Insulin secretion, sensitivity, and clearance in normoglycemic Black and White adults with parental type 2 diabetes: association with incident dysglycemia
Authors: Edeoga Chimaroke , Asuzu Peace , Wan Jim , Dagogo-Jack Samuel
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Ethnic disparities in the prevalence and pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes are well documented, but prospective data on insulin dynamics vis-à-vis pre-diabetes/early dysglycemia risk in diverse populations are scant.

Research design and methods

We analyzed insulin secretion, sensitivity, and clearance among participants in the Pathobiology of Prediabetes in a Biracial Cohort (POP-ABC) study. The POP-ABC study followed initially normoglycemic offspring of parents with type 2 diabetes for 5.5 years, the primary outcome being incident dysglycemia. Assessments included anthropometry, oral glucose tolerance test, insulin sensitivity (hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp, HEC), insulin secretion (intravenous glucose tolerance test, IVGT), and disposition index (DI). Insulin clearance was derived as the molar ratio of plasma C peptide to insulin and by calculating the metabolic clearance rate during HEC.

Results

POP-ABC participants who completed IVGT and HEC at baseline (145 African American, 123 European American; 72% women; mean age 44.6±10.1 years) were included in the present analysis. The baseline fasting plasma glucose was 91.9±6.91 mg/dL (5.11±0.38 mmol/L) and 2-hour plasma glucose was 123±25.1 mg/dL (6.83±1.83 mmol/L). African American offspring of parents with type 2 diabetes had higher insulin secretion and DI, and lower insulin sensitivity and clearance, than their European American counterparts. During 5.5 years of follow-up, 91 of 268 participants developed incident dysglycemia and 177 maintained normoglycemia. In Cox proportional hazards models, insulin secretion (HR 0.997 (95% CI 0.996 to 0.999), p=0.005), insulin sensitivity (HR 0.948 (95% CI 0.913 to 0.984), p=0.005), DI (HR 0.945 (95% CI 0.909 to 0.983), p=0.005) and basal insulin clearance (HR 1.030 (95% CI 1.005 to 1.056), p=0.018) significantly predicted incident dysglycemia.

Conclusions

Insulin sensitivity, secretion, and clearance differ significantly in normoglycemic African American versus European American offspring of parents with type 2 diabetes and are associated with the risk of incident dysglycemia.
Challenges of sharing individual participant data for secondary research on neglected tropical diseases: the experience of Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative and a call for action
Authors: Tarwid Justyna , Childs Michelle , Junod-Moser Dominique , Negrouk Anastassia , Egondi Thaddaeus , Tipple Craig
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is committed to maximising the scientific value of the individual participant data (IPD) it has collected during its 20 years of activity and the IPD it will collect in the future, while safeguarding research participants’ privacy and their right to know how their data will be processed.

Objective

The objective of this article is to share what DNDi has learnt while working on its commitment to data sharing. It also aims to advance the debate about best practice in the research community to avoid ‘IPD sharing paralysis’, with a focus on multistakeholder projects involving patients and researchers based in countries with various levels of data privacy regulations and measures.

Results

The article describes a practical case study outlining the ethical, legal and technical challenges encountered by DNDi in the context of IPD data sharing. The case study demonstrates that each individual research project presents new challenges, which frequently require external support, delaying the process of data sharing and increasing the overall cost.

Conclusion

These challenges mean that a case-by-case approach is required for each IPD project to ensure an appropriate balance between the rights of the individual, the integrity of the research and the maximum use of IPD for scientific progress. A collective and inclusive approach is needed to streamline the process of IPD sharing and accelerate research into pressing unmet medical needs.
Understanding cervical cancer prevention in Africa: a qualitative systematic review of the role of men
Authors: Ebu Enyan Nancy Innocentia , Raouna Aigli , King-Okoye Michelle , Ken-Amoah Sebastian , Akakpo Patrick Kafui , Doi Lawrence , Obiri-Yeboah Dorcas
Published: December 2024

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is a preventable noncommunicable disease if detected early through screening for precancers and appropriately managed. The causal link with high-risk human papillomavirus infection is established, making elimination possible through the WHO multipronged 90:70:90 strategy. However, practical CC elimination efforts need to address issues within the sociocultural context that can facilitate or hinder prevention strategies. In this regard, the role of men in promoting reproductive health, especially in Africa, cannot be overemphasised.

Objective

This systematic review examined the extent of involvement of men in CC prevention in Africa and its impact on the WHO CC elimination strategy.

Methods

A comprehensive search for relevant literature was conducted from 2008 to 2023 in the following electronic databases: Embase, Medline, Global Health, APA PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL Plus and the WHO website. Eligible studies explored the views of n=592 men. Screening of abstracts and titles, data extraction and quality assessment were performed in duplicate. A narrative synthesis was performed, as developed by the Economic and Social Research Council Methods Programme, to synthesise the qualitative data.

Results

Out of the 1961 studies identified through the electronic database search, 16 met all inclusion criteria. This review revealed varying levels of awareness of CC among men; while some had little to no knowledge, others demonstrated a comprehensive understanding. Gaps in knowledge and perception of CC were evident across studies. Both individual and systemic challenges shaped the perspectives of men on screening as a preventive measure, resulting in a range of attitudes and concerns regarding human papillomavirus vaccination. Though male participation in CC prevention was generally low, it was noted that males were willing to play an active role in CC screening and vaccination by supporting the process. Men believed that aggressive education and awareness creation among men were required.

Conclusions

This review highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve awareness, knowledge and perception of CC among men. Such efforts are essential to help men recognise their crucial role in supporting CC elimination within the African context.

PROSPERO registration number

The review protocol was registered on 26 June 2023 in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42023437100.
Acute effect of a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern (MDP) on mood, anxiety and cognition in UK adults with mild to moderate anxiety and depression: the MediMood randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Esgunoglu Latife , Liaquat Marrium , Gillings Rachel , Lazar Alpar , Leddy Adrian , Brooks Jon , Penny William , Sami Saber , Hornberger M , Stevenson Emma , Jennings Amy , Minihane Anne Marie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Psychological disorders including depression and anxiety are significant public health concerns. A Mediterranean-style dietary pattern (MDP) has been associated with improved mental well-being in observational studies. Evidence of the acute (defined as postprandial to 1 week) effects of an MDP on brain function, mood, cognition and important modulators, including sleep and the gut microbiota is limited. The current intervention aims to examine whether an MDP, compared with a Western diet (WD), improves mood, cognition and anxiety symptoms, postprandially, at 24-hour and after 5 days in adults with mild to moderate anxiety and depression.

Methods and analysis

Twenty-five UK adults (aged 18 or over) with mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression and low adherence to an MDP were recruited to a cross-over randomised controlled trial. Each participant undergoes a 5 day MDP and a 5 day WD in a randomised order with all meals provided. The co-primary outcomes are mood and anxiety, with secondary outcomes including cognitive function, brain perfusion (as assessed by MRI), sleep quality, blood pressure, plasma glucose, insulin, lipids, C-reactive protein, cortisol, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, gut microbiota speciation and microbial metabolites including short chain fatty acids. A linear mixed model and/or paired analysis will be used to compare the effects of treatments over time.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received a favourable ethics opinion from the National Health Service London Queen Square Research Ethics Committee (22/LO/0796). The results will be disseminated through scientific journals and conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05927376.
Prevalence, spatial variation and associated factors of mixed milk feeding among mothers with infants aged 0–6 months in Ethiopia: a spatial and multilevel analysis
Authors: Endawkie Abel , Tsega Yawkal , Asmamaw Desale Bihonegn
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to determine the prevalence, spatial variation and associated factors of mixed milk feeding practice among mothers with infants aged 0–6 months in Ethiopia.

Study design

A cross-sectional study design was used.

Setting

The study was conducted in Ethiopia.

Population and participant

The study populations were mothers with infants aged 0–6 months and 550 weighted sampled mothers with infants aged 0–6 months were included in the analysis.

Outcome variable

The primary outcome was mixed milk feeding practice measured by 24-hour recall assessment and the secondary outcome was factors of mixed milk feeding practice.

Result

The prevalence of mixed milk feeding practice among mothers with infants 0–6 months in Ethiopia was 55.5% with a 95% CI (51, 59). Spatial analysis revealed that mixed milk feeding practice was concentrated in Addis Ababa, Amhara, Oromia and the Southern regions of Ethiopia. Mothers with education had 1.2 times higher odds of engaging in mixed milk feeding compared with those who had no education (AOR=1.2, 95% CI 1.01, 2.3). Mothers from higher wealth index categories exhibited 1.7 times greater odds of mixed milk feeding than those from lower wealth index categories (AOR=1.69, 95% CI 1.3, 1.8). Mothers who delivered in health facilities had a 50% reduced risk of mixed milk feeding compared with those who delivered at home (AOR=0.5, 95% CI 0.3, 0.92). Lastly, the likelihood of mixed milk feeding was 2.6 times higher among mothers in urban administrative regions, while there was a 63% lower risk in less-developed regions compared with developed regions in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant prevalence of mixed milk feeding practice among mothers with infants aged 0–6 months in Ethiopia. Spatial analysis revealed distinct geographical clusters of these practices, particularly in urban areas such as Addis Ababa, Amhara and Oromia. Maternal education, wealth status, place of delivery and regional differences were associated factors of mixed milk feeding. Specifically, mothers who have education and those from wealthier backgrounds were more likely to engage in mixed milk feeding, while those delivering in health facilities had a lower risk.