bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A sense of Humor as a Moderator of the Relationship Between stressful life Events and Depression in Psychiatric clients
Authors: Kim Ok Hee
Published: October 2024

Recently an increasing amount of research has focused on the role that stressful life events play in the etiology, course, and maintenance of various physical and psychological disorders.Anecdotal reprots and clinical experience have long suggested that humor can be an effective and adaptive mechanism for coping with stress (Dixon, 1980).Even though increased attention has been paid recently to various aspects of humor, few studies have appeared in the literature that have directly investigated its stress - moderating effects.The problem addressed by this study was to assess a sense of humor as a moderator of the relationship between stressful life events and depression in a psychiatric population.The purpose of the study was to contribute to nurses’understanding about the use of humor as a adaptive coping mechanism between stressful life events and depression in psychiatric populations.The study participants was a convenience sample of 59 clients attending psychiatric Out—Pationts Clinics or psychiatric care units of two University hospitals in Seoul and one neuropsychiatric hospital in a near-by city. Data were collected from Sept. 14 to Oct. 10,1992. The instruments used were the Situational Humor Response Questionnale developed by Martin & Lefcourt(1983), the Beck Depression Inventory modified by Lee, Eun—Young and the Social Reajustment Rating developed by Holmes & Rahe and modified by Lee, Pung—Suk.Data were analyzed by percentage, mean, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coeffcient, Stepwise multiple regression, t—Test.The results of this study can be summarized 1. There was no relationship between the one*s general characteristics and the depression.2. There was difference in the depression scores between the high humor sense group and the low humor sense group(F=5.73, P<0.05).3. There was difference in the depression scores between the high stressful life events group and the low stressful life events group(F=7.4, P<0.00).4. There was difference in the depression scores between the two groups : the depression scores of the high humor sense group were lower than those of low humor sense group under the high stressful life events (t=-2.5, P<0.05).The finding suggest that nurses need to find ways to enhance the of humor as adaptive coping mechanism between stressful life events and deppression in psychiatric populations.Further research shoud be focus on the development of a culturally appropriate instrument to measure a sense of humor.
Characteristics of Clustering and Switching in Verbal Fluency in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia of Alzheimer’s Type
Authors: Won Eunseon , Choi Hyunjoo
Published: October 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the performance on a verbal fluency task, clustering and switching characteristics, and proportion by error type between healthy elderly, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Dementia of Alzheimer’s Type (DAT) group. Methods: Thirty healthy elderly, 30 MCI and 29 DAT individuals were asked to produce words in the category of ‘supermarket items’ for semantic fluency and ‘ㄱ’, ‘ㅇ’, and ‘ㅅ’ Korean letter categories for phonemic fluency with one minute allotted per category. Results: First, the number of correct responses in the verbal fluency task was significantly different between groups, with post hoc analyses showing significant differences between the healthy elderly and DAT groups and between the MCI and DAT groups. Second, the mean cluster size was not significant between groups in the semantic fluency task. However, it was significant between the healthy elderly and DAT groups, and between MCI and DAT groups in the phonemic fluency task. Third, the number of switches was significant between the healthy elderly and DAT elderly. Finally, the three groups had the highest proportion of perseverative errors in the semantic fluency task and the highest proportion of other errors in the phonemic fluency task. Conclusion: This study has clinical significance in that it examined the number of correct responses and characteristics of clustering and switching on verbal fluency tasks in the healthy elderly, MCI and DAT groups.
An Analysis of the Relationships between Reading Abilities and Socio-emotional Behaviors of School-aged Children: The Mediation Effect of Pragmatic Language Abilities
Authors: Kim Jung A , Yim Dongsun , Kim Young Tae
Published: October 2024

Objectives: School-aged children with poor reading abilities face a variety of challenges in their lives. They may be at risk of having learning difficulties and behavioral or emotional problems in school. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationships among reading abilities, pragmatic language abilities, and socio-emotional behaviors and the mediation effect of pragmatic language abilities in the relations between reading abilities and socio-emotional behaviors of school-aged children. Methods: The participants in this study are 124 elementary school children (from 2nd to 6th grade). To examine the relationships among reading abilities, pragmatic language abilities, and socio-emotional behaviors, correlations were used. To analyze the mediation effect of pragmatic language abilities in the relations between reading abilities and socio-emotional behaviors, SPSS PROCESS Macro (ver. 3.5) analysis method was used in Model 4. Results: The main findings of this study are as follows. First, reading abilities were significantly correlated with pragmatic language abilities and socio-emotional behaviors. Also, the pragmatic language abilities were significantly correlated with socio-emotional behaviors. Second, pragmatic language abilities mediated the relations between reading abilities and socio-emotional behaviors (emotional difficulties and strengths). Conclusion: The significance of this study lies in verifying that reading abilities and pragmatic language abilities play an important role in alleviating socio-emotional problems and in increasing emotional strengths. These results can be used as important basic data for reading and practical language intervention to reduce emotional difficulties and to increase emotional strengths.
Comparison of Vocal Amplitude and Contact Speed according to SOVTE Type
Authors: Kim Ji-Sung
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Observation of vocal fold vibration during semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTE) can help in understanding voice production due to semi-occlusion. This study aimed to investigate the differences in vocal fold vibration characteristics among various types of SOVTE. This study may provide valuable evidence to support more specific and effective methods in applying SOVTE to voice therapy. Methods: A total of 10 healthy young adults (5 males, 5 females) with a mean age of 24.28±4.54 years participated in the study. None of the participants had any voice-related diseases or were smokers. The participants performed various types of SOVTE including humming, voiced bilabial fricative, straw phonation, and water-resistance straw phonation. The authors measured the amplitude and contact speed of vocal fold using a vibration simulator and digital kymography (DKG). Results: The results showed that vocal fold amplitude was not significantly different among types of SOVTE, but there were significant differences in vocal fold contact speed (p=.046). In multiple comparisons, vocal fold contact speed was significantly faster in humming (p=.031) and water-resistance straw phonation (p=.018) compared to straw phonation. Conclusion: The difference in vocal fold contact speed indicates that the vocal fold vibration during SOVTE is affected by the shape of the vocal tract. The use of humming and water-resistance straw phonation can be an effective approach to improve voice quality by increasing vocal fold contact speed, which is a key factor in determining overall voice quality. These two methods can be useful in voice therapy after laryngeal microsurgery. In the field, conducting trial therapy rather than applying voice therapy according to the hierarchy of SOVTE may lead to successful results.
The Sensitivity and Specificity of the Korean-Infant and Toddler Checklist in Screening for Developmental Language Delay in Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Lee YoonKyoung , Lim Suah
Published: October 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the validity of the Korean-infant and toddler checklist (K-ITC) in screening for developmental language delay through analysis of sensitivity and specificity.Methods: Participants were 39 infants with developmental language delay aged 6-24 months, and 39 typically developing infants matched for chronological age. Total scores and scores from three domains (social, speech, and symbolic) of the K-ITC were compared between the two groups using independent samples t-tests. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to assess the sensitivity and specificity of each score, confirming the validityResults: Infants with developmental language delay scored significantly lower than typically developing infants on the social and speech domains of the K-ITC, but not on the symbolic domain. ROC analysis indicated significant area under the curve (AUC) values for total scores and scores from each domain, with sensitivity of 95% for total scores and 87.18% for domain scores, and specificity of 64.10% for total scores. Sensitivity was notably higher compared to specificityConclusion: This study confirms that the K-ITC exhibits high sensitivity as a screening tool for developmental language delay in infants, demonstrating validity in significantly identifying developmental delays in infants and toddlers.
Comparison of quantitative defect characterization using pulse-phase and lock-in thermography: erratum
Authors: Maierhofer Christiane , Röllig Mathias , Krankenhagen Rainer , Myrach Philipp
Published: October 2024

Based on the results of a study on systematic errors in thermographic lock-in measurements [14th Quantitative Infrared Thermography Conference (2018)], the results and conclusions of the earlier publication [Appl. Opt. 55, D76 (2016)APOPAI0003-693510.1364/AO.55.000D76] were reconsidered. It turned out that the reported uncertainties for phase values from lock-in measurements were set too low according to the current state of knowledge. One of the conclusions drawn at the time can no longer be upheld, as the experimental values are too imprecise.
Noise analysis of a quasi-phase-matched quantum frequency converter and higher-order counter-propagating SPDC
Authors: Mann Felix , Chrzanowski Helen M. , Gewers Felipe , Placke Marlon , Ramelow Sven
Published: October 2024

Quantum frequency conversion (QFC) will be an indispensable ingredient in future quantum technologies. For example, large-scale fibre-based quantum networks will require QFC to interconnect heterogeneous building blocks like emitters, channels, memories, and detectors. The performance of existing QFC devices – typically realized in periodically poled nonlinear crystals – is often severely limited by parasitic noise that arises when the pump wavelength lies between the inter-converted wavelengths. Here we comprehensively investigate the noise spectrum of a QFC device pumped by a CW 1064 nm laser. The converter was realized as a bulk periodically poled potassium titanyl phosphate (ppKTP) crystal quasi-phase-matched for conversion between 637 nm and 1587 nm, which was also polished and coated to resonantly enhance the pump field by a factor of 50. While Raman scattering dominates the noise background from 1140 nm to 1330 nm, at larger energy shifts (beyond 60 THz), parasitic spontaneous parametric down-conversion (SPDC) is the strongest noise source. Further, the noise spectrum was contaminated by a regular succession of narrow-band peaks, which we attribute to a heretofore unidentified higher-order counter-propagating SPDC processes – with quasi-phase-matching orders up to 44 evident in our measurements. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the limiting noise sources in QFC devices that use quasi-phase-matched crystals and will prove an invaluable resource in guiding their future development.
Fluorescent emission and nondestructive 3D textural imaging in geologic materials by multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Crossley Samuel D. , Donner Colby L. , Magnus Josh , Nguyen Lam , Kieu Khanh
Published: October 2024

This work greatly expands the application of multiphoton microscopy to geological investigations by using a tightly focused femtosecond laser beam to excite fluorescent emissions among minimally prepared rock and mineral samples. This novel finding provides a tool for spatially resolving UV-visible fluorescent sources in minerals. Through a combination of harmonic generation and fluorescence, unique opportunities are made available for mineralogical investigations of terrestrial rocks and astromaterials. This report includes the first demonstrations for 3D imaging of fluid inclusions in minerals and radiation-induced luminescence imaging in meteorites. Nonlinear optical mineralogy, enabled by multiphoton microscopy, provides unique insights into mineralogic samples and holds the potential to revolutionize the analysis of geologic and astromaterials samples in the coming years.
3.8 µm pulse burst self-optical parametric oscillator utilizing a programmable step-active Q-switch with Nd:MgO:PPLN crystal
Authors: Yao Xiaodai , Xing Erxian , Liu Hang , Wang Zijian , Wang Chao , Jin Guangyong , Yu Yongji
Published: October 2024

This paper reports a 3.8 µm pulse burst self-optical parametric oscillator (SOPO) employing the Nd:MgO:PPLN crystal, achieving programmable mid-infrared pulse burst output based on step-active Q-switching technology. Building on the intracavity optical parametric oscillator (IOPO) theory, a theoretical model for the step-active Q-switched self-optical parametric oscillator is developed by introducing idler photon and step loss terms. The simulation results elucidate the evolution of population inversion and photon numbers and determine step-active Q-switching loss values for different sub-pulse numbers. Additionally, a 3.8 µm pulse burst laser output with a repetition rate of 10 kHz is experimentally achieved using the step-active Q-switching signal designed from the theoretical simulation. The effective programming of the step-active Q-switching signal achieves control over 2-4 sub-pulses, 260-1000 ns intervals, and any amplitude ratios. The experimental and simulation results demonstrate consistency, offering valuable insights for optimizing the Q-switching technology in other SOPO systems.
Metasurface-enabled 3D imaging via local bright spot gray scale matching using the structured light dot array
Authors: Zhang Zhengren , Sun Qian , Qu Anjun , Yang Mengran , Li Zile
Published: October 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging is widely utilized in various applications, such as light detection, autonomous vehicles, and machine vision. However, conventional 3D imaging systems often rely on bulky optical components. Metasurfaces, as next-generation optical devices, possess flexible wavefront modulation capabilities and excellent combination with computer vision algorithms. Here, we propose a large field-of-view (FOV) structured light dot array projection device based on a metasurface, covering a 2

π

-FOV, for projecting coded point clouds in Fourier space. We explore a local bright spot gray scale matching algorithm for depth extraction, enabling 3D imaging. This algorithm simplifies the data processing flow and optimizes depth extraction and feature matching processes through a customized region gray scale comparison. As a result, it effectively reduces computational complexity and enhances tolerance to image quality fluctuations. The proposed approach provides new possibilities for developing compact and high-performance planar 3D optical imaging devices, which will drive the advancement of fields such as computer vision and artificial intelligence.
Ecological-level factors associated with tuberculosis incidence and mortality: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liyew Alemneh Mekuriaw , Clements Archie C. A. , Akalu Temesgen Yihunie , Gilmour Beth , Alene Kefyalew Addis
Published: October 2024

Globally, tuberculosis (TB) is the leading infectious cause of morbidity and mortality, with the risk of infection affected by both individual and ecological-level factors. While systematic reviews on individual-level factors exist, there are currently limited studies examining ecological-level factors associated with TB incidence and mortality. This study was conducted to identify ecological factors associated with TB incidence and mortality. A systematic search for analytical studies reporting ecological factors associated with TB incidence or mortality was conducted across electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, from each database’s inception to October 30, 2023. A narrative synthesis of evidence on factors associated with TB incidence and mortality from all included studies, alongside random-effects meta-analysis where applicable, estimated the effects of each factor on TB incidence. A total of 52 articles were included in the analysis, and one study analysed two outcomes, giving 53 studies. Narrative synthesis revealed predominantly positive associations between TB incidence and factors such as temperature (10/18 studies), precipitation (4/6), nitrogen dioxide (6/9), poverty (4/4), immigrant population (3/4), urban population (3/8), and male population (2/4). Conversely, air pressure (3/5), sunshine duration (3/8), altitude (2/4), gross domestic product (4/9), wealth index (2/8), and TB treatment success rate (2/2) mostly showed negative associations. Particulate matter (1/1), social deprivation (1/1), and population density (1/1) were positively associated with TB mortality, while household income (2/2) exhibited a negative association. In the meta-analysis, higher relative humidity (%) (relative risk (RR) = 1.45, 95%CI:1.12, 1.77), greater rainfall (mm) (RR = 1.56, 95%CI: 1.11, 2.02), elevated sulphur dioxide (μg m–3) (RR = 1.04, 95% CI:1.01, 1.08), increased fine particulate matter concentration (PM2.5) (μg/ m3) (RR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.49), and higher population density (people/km2) (RR = 1.01,95%CI:1.01–1.02) were associated with increased TB incidence. Conversely, higher average wind speed (m/s) (RR = 0.89, 95%CI: 0.82,0.96) was associated with decreased TB incidence. TB incidence and mortality rates were significantly associated with various climatic, socioeconomic, and air quality-related factors. Intersectoral collaboration across health, environment, housing, social welfare and economic sectors is imperative for developing integrated approaches that address the risk factors associated with TB incidence and mortality.
Short-term associations of diarrhoeal diseases in children with temperature and precipitation in seven low- and middle-income countries from Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia in the Global Enteric Multicenter Study
Authors: Hossain Nasif , Madaniyazi Lina , Ng Chris Fook Sheng , Nasrin Dilruba , Seposo Xerxes Tesoro , Chua Paul L. C. , Pan Rui , Faruque Abu Syed Golam , Hashizume Masahiro
Published: October 2024

Background

Diarrhoeal diseases cause a heavy burden in developing countries. Although studies have described the seasonality of diarrhoeal diseases, the association of weather variables with diarrhoeal diseases has not been well characterized in resource-limited settings where the burden remains high. We examined short-term associations between ambient temperature, precipitation and hospital visits due to diarrhoea among children in seven low- and middle-income countries.

Methodology

Hospital visits due to diarrhoeal diseases under 5 years old were collected from seven sites in The Gambia, Mali, Mozambique, Kenya, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan via the Global Enteric Multicenter Study from December 2007 to March 2011. Daily weather data during the same period were downloaded from the ERA5-Land. We fitted time-series regression models to examine the relationships of daily diarrhoea cases with daily ambient temperature and precipitation. Then, we used meta-analytic tools to examine the heterogeneity between the site-specific estimates.

Principal findings

The cumulative relative risk (RR) of diarrhoea for temperature exposure (95th percentile vs. 1st percentile) ranged from 0.24 to 8.07, with Mozambique and Bangladesh showing positive associations, while Mali and Pakistan showed negative associations. The RR for precipitation (95th percentile vs. 1st percentile) ranged from 0.77 to 1.55, with Mali and India showing positive associations, while the only negative association was observed in Pakistan. Meta-analysis showed substantial heterogeneity in the association between temperature–diarrhoea and precipitation–diarrhoea across sites, with I2 of 84.2% and 67.5%, respectively.

Conclusions

Child diarrhoea and weather factors have diverse and complex associations across South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Diarrhoeal surveillance system settings should be conceptualized based on the observed pattern of climate change in these locations.
Role of the type 6 secretion system on apoptosis and macrophage polarization during Burkholderia pseudomallei infection
Authors: Stockton Jacob L. , Khakhum Nittaya , Torres Alfredo G.
Published: October 2024

Burkholderia pseudomallei (Bpm) is the causative agent of the disease melioidosis. As a facultative intracellular pathogen, Bpm has a complex lifestyle that culminates in cell-to-cell fusion and multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs) formation. The virulence factor responsible for MNGC formation is the type 6 secretion system (T6SS), a contractile nanomachine. MNGC formation is a cell-to-cell spread strategy that allows the bacteria to avoid the extracellular immune system and our previous data highlighted cell death, apoptosis, and inflammation as pathways significantly impacted by T6SS activity. Thusly, we investigated how the T6SS influences these phenotypes within the macrophage and pulmonary models of infection. Here we report that the T6SS is responsible for exacerbating apoptotic cell death during infection in both macrophages and the lungs of infected mice. We also demonstrate that although the T6SS does not influence differential macrophage polarization, the M2 polarization observed is potentially beneficial for Bpm pathogenesis and replication. Finally, we show that the T6SS contributes to the severity of inflammatory nodule formation in the lungs, which might be potentially connected to the amount of apoptosis that is triggered by the bacteria.
The development of L. major, L. donovani and L. martiniquensis, Leishmania currently emerging in Europe, in the sand fly species Phlebotomus perniciosus and P. tobbi
Authors: Sadlova Jovana , Hoskova Anna , Vojtkova Barbora , Becvar Tomas , Volf Petr
Published: October 2024

Background

Several new species of Leishmania have recently emerged in Europe, probably as the result of global changes and increased human migration from endemic areas. In this study, we tested whether two sand fly species, the Western Mediterranean Phlebotomus perniciosus and the Eastern Mediterranean P. tobbi, are competent vectors of L. donovani, L. major and L. martiniquensis.

Methodology/principal findings

Sand flies were infected through the chick skin membrane using Leishmania species and strains of various geographical origins. Leishmania infections were evaluated by light microscopy and qPCR, and the representation of morphological forms was assessed from Giemsa-stained gut smears. Neither P. perniciosus nor P. tobbi supported the development of L. martiniquensis, but L. major and L. donovani in both species survived defecation of blood meal remnants, colonized the stomodeal valve and produced metacyclic stages. The results with L donovani have shown that infection rates in sand flies can be strain-specific; therefore, to determine vector competence or refractoriness, it is optimal to test at least two strains of Leishmania.

Conclusions, significance

Both sand fly species tested are potential vectors of L. donovani and L. major in Mediterranean area. However, further studies will be needed to identify European vectors of L. martiniquensis and to test the ability of other European sand fly species to transmit L. major, L. donovani, L. tropica and L. infantum.
Elucidating the role of MLL1 nsSNPs: Structural and functional alterations and their contribution to leukemia development
Authors: Al-nakhle Hakeemah H. , Yagoub Hind S. , Alrehaili Rahaf Y. , Shaqroon Ola A. , Khan Minna K. , Alsharif Ghaidaa S.
Published: October 2024

(1) Background

The Mixed lineage leukemia 1 (MLL1) gene, located on chromosome 11q23, plays a pivotal role in histone lysine-specific methylation and is consistently associated with various types of leukemia. Non-synonymous Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (nsSNPs) have been tied to numerous diseases, including cancers, and have become valuable cancer biomarkers. There’s a notable gap in studies probing the influence of SNPs on MLL1 protein structure, function, and subsequent modifications;

(2) Methods

We utilized an array of bioinformatics tools, including PredictSNP, InterPro, ConSurf, I-Mutant2.0, MUpro, Musitedeep, Project HOPE, RegulomeDB, Mutpred2, and both CScape and CScape Somatic, to meticulously analyze the consequences of nsSNPs in the MLL1 gene;

(3) Results

Out of 2,097 nsSNPs analyzed, 62 were determined to be significantly pathogenic by the PredictSNP tool, with ten crucial MLL1 functional domains identified using InterPro. Additionally, 50 of these nsSNPs had high conservation scores, hinting at potential effects on protein structure and function, while 32 were found to undermine MLL1 protein stability. Notably, four nsSNPs were deemed oncogenic, with two identified as cancer drivers. The nsSNP, D2724G, between the MLL1 protein’s FY-rich domains, could disrupt proteolytic cleavage, altering gene expression patterns and potentially promoting cancer;

(4) Conclusions

Our research provides a comprehensive assessment of nsSNPs’ impact in the MLL1 protein structure and function and consequently on leukemia development, suggesting potential avenues for personalized treatment, early detection, improved prognosis, and a deeper understanding of hematological malignancy genesis.
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) expressions in Ethiopian female breast cancer and their association with histopathologic features
Authors: Addisu Sisay , Bekele Abebe , Seifu Daniel , Assefa Mathewos , Gemechu Tufa , Hoenerhoff Mark J. , Merajver Sofia D.
Published: October 2024

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGF) play important role in breast tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, patient survival and drug resistance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protein expression status of EGFR and VEGF-A, as well as their association with hormone receptor status and histopathological characteristics in the invasive type of female breast cancer among Ethiopians.

Method

The primary breast tumor tissues were obtained from 85 Ethiopian invasive breast cancer cases that underwent modified radical mastectomy (MRM) from June 2014 to June 2015. Their FFPE blocks were analyzed for EGFR and VEGF protein expressions using immunohistochemical techniques. The expressions were also correlated with histopathologic features.

Result

Epidermal growth factor receptor over-expression was observed in 22% of the tumor samples. VEGF-A expression was negative in 13.41%, low in 63.41%, moderate in 20.73%, and high in 2.44%. EGFR expression, but not VEGF-A, showed a significant inverse correlation with both estrogen receptor (ER) (P = 0.01) and progesterone receptor (PR) statuses (P = 0.04). EGFR and VEGF expressions did not show significant association with tumor size, grade, lymph node status or age at diagnosis.

Conclusion

Epidermal growth factor receptor expression was most likely associated with ER and PR negative tumors. Assessments of multiple molecular markers aid to understand the biological behavior of the disease in Ethiopian population. It might also help to predict which group of patients might get more benefit from the selected treatment strategies and which are not.
Improving follow-up survey completion rates through pilot interventions in the All of Us Research Program: Results from a non-randomized intervention study
Authors: Cronin Robert M. , Feng Xiaoke , Able Ashley , Sutherland Scott , Givens Ben , Johnston Rebecca , Depry Charlene , Le Blanc Katrina W. , Caro Orlane , Mapes Brandy , Denny Josh , Couper Mick P. , Chen Qingxia , Prabhu Das Irene
Published: October 2024

Objective

Retention to complete follow-up surveys in extensive longitudinal epidemiological cohort studies is vital yet challenging. All of Us developed pilot interventions to improve response rates for follow-up surveys.

Study design and setting

The pilot interventions occurred from April 27, 2020, to August 3, 2020. The three arms were: (1) telephone appointment [staff members calling participants offering appointments to complete surveys over phone] (2) postal [mail reminder to complete surveys through U.S. Postal Service], and (3) combination of telephone appointment and postal. Controls received digital-only reminders [program-level digital recontact via email or through the participant portal]. Study sites chose their study arm and participants were not randomized.

Results

A total of 50 sites piloted interventions with 17,593 participants, while 47,832 participants comprised controls during the same period. Of all participants, 6,828 (10.4%) completed any follow-up surveys (1448: telephone; 522: postal; 486: combination; 4372: controls). Follow-up survey completions were 24% higher in the telephone appointment arm than in controls in bivariate analyses. When controlling for confounders, telephone appointment and combination arms increased rates of completion similarly compared to controls, while the postal arm had no significant effect (odds ratio [95% Confidence Interval], telephone appointment:2.01[1.81–2.23]; combination:1.91[1.66–2.20]; postal:0.92[0.79–1.07]). Although the effects of the telephone appointment and combination arms were similar, differential effects were observed across sub-populations.

Conclusion

Telephone appointments appeared to be the most successful intervention in our study. Lessons learned about retention interventions, and improvement in follow-up survey completion rates provide generalizable knowledge for similar cohort studies and demonstrate the potential value of precision reminders and engagement with sub-populations of a cohort.
Parents’ online coaching in the early intervention home program for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic: Manual development and feasibility study
Authors: Png JieYi , Wan Yunus Farahiyah , Kadar Masne , Wai Yang Wai , Rusli Yazmin Ahmad , Khaiyom Jamilah Hanum Abdul
Published: October 2024

Early intervention improves the developmental progress among toddlers with ASD. Family involvement enhances the intervention outcome. This study aimed to develop and test the feasibility of an early intervention home program manual for toddlers with ASD. Method: This study involved three phases: (I) formulation of manual concept and content design (II) manual development through focus group discussion (n = 10) and content validation by experts (n = 9); (III) cognitive interview (n = 6) and feasibility study (n = 8). Result: Content Validity Index (I-CVI) for the developed manual ranged from .78–1.0, S-CVI/Ave .96, and S-CVI/UA .79. Cognitive interview among six parents reported that the manual was easy to understand. The feasibility study reported all eight parents benefitted from coaching sessions. Approximately 87.5% of the respondents found the program benefited their children and could easily implement the activities in their daily routines. Approximately 75% of respondents reported having greater confidence in managing their child’s behaviors at home. Parent coaching using the developed home program is feasible and accepted by parents of a toddler with ASD. Further study should be developed to explore the effectiveness of parent coaching using the manual.
The research of knowledge diffusion network model for Tourism Destination-Public ecological civilization
Authors: Xu Jiehua , Peng Peng , Wei Dongping , Deng Zhijun
Published: October 2024

Visitor education plays a crucial role in the knowledge diffusion process in outdoor recreation and nature-based tourism. It entails sharing information, experiences, and insights with visitors to enhance their understanding and appreciation of the natural environment. Our methodology for investigating the diffusion of ecological civilization knowledge in tourism destinations involves constructing a knowledge diffusion network model. In this model, scenic spots, tourists, and the public are defined as network nodes, with the communication channels between them representing the edges of the network. By constructing a scale-free complex network, the knowledge diffusion mode of scenic spots can be depicted. The layer of resource supply node consists of different scenic spots, forming the core nodes set for knowledge diffusion in the tourism industry. This research aims to further explore the social and economic value of the tourism areas’ ecological civilization knowledge diffusion, as well as analyze the path, quantity, and cost of knowledge diffusion. by analyzing this knowledge diffusion network model, insights into the effectiveness and impact of visitor education in promoting ecological civilization and sustainable practices in tourism destinations can be gained. Overall, this approach provides a theoretical framework for investigating and comprehending the knowledge diffusion process in Tourism Destination-Public ecological civilization, thereby shedding light on the social and economic benefits that can be derived from sustainable tourism practices.
Reproductive performance of lumpfish (Cyclopterus lumpus, L. 1758) females: Effects of integrated photoperiod and temperature manipulations on sexual maturation and spawning
Authors: Mlingi Frank Thomas , Burgerhout Erik , Mommens Maren , Tveiten Helge , Tomkiewicz Jonna , Kjørsvik Elin , Puvanendran Velmurugu
Published: October 2024

A successful control of sexual maturation is crucial for year-round production of lumpfish juveniles destined as cleaner fish in Atlantic salmon aquaculture. This study investigated the combined effects of photoperiod and temperature manipulations on sexual maturation and spawning in lumpfish females. Lumpfish juveniles were exposed to simulated natural and nine-month compressed annual photoperiods, with subsequent temperature elevation. Body weight (BW), condition factor (K), gonadosomatic index (GSI), ovarian development, plasma levels of 17β-estradiol (E2), testosterone (T) and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), and spawning were assessed. Compressing the natural photoperiod caused a clear increase and decrease in GSI, T, 11-KT and E2 towards and during the spawning period. Before the temperature elevation, GSI, T, 11-KT, E2 and ovarian development were advanced in the compressed photoperiod. After the temperature elevation, GSI, T, 11-KT and E2 fluctuated more in the compressed photoperiod, while in the natural photoperiod, E2 declined, and GSI, T and 11-KT increased. Spawning was advanced by 1 month in the compressed photoperiod compared to the natural photoperiod. Temperature elevation led to higher levels, earlier peaks and declines of T, 11-KT or E2 in both photoperiods, and advanced spawning by 1.5 months in the compressed photoperiod compared to the natural photoperiod. Temperature elevation also led to increased ovulation recruitment and increased cumulative weight of spawned eggs in the natural photoperiod. Compressing the natural photoperiod and elevating temperature can thus advance sexual maturation and spawning in lumpfish females. Due to the lower amounts of spawned egg weights in the high temperature compressed photoperiod, further studies on effects of photoperiod and timing of temperature manipulations on spawning, fecundity and egg quality could optimize the photothermal manipulations on lumpfish broodstock.
Understanding stakeholder perspectives on Apgar score, cyanosis and identifying jaundice in ethnic minority neonates
Authors: Fair Frankie , Furness Amy , Higginbottom Gina , Oddie Sam , Soltani Hora
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To explore neonatal assessments that include an element of evaluating skin colour in neonates of black, Asian and minority ethnicities, focusing on the Apgar score, presence of cyanosis and presence of jaundice.

Design

We employed focused ethnography involving diverse healthcare professionals (HCPs) and parents or caregivers with Black, Asian, or ethnic minority children born in the last five years. Zoom interviews were performed following a semi-structured interview guide. Ethnographic data analysis was conducted using NVivo software.

Results

There was a lack of consistency in how HCPs applied the Apgar scores, which also varied from textbook guidelines. The use of pink as a skin colour descriptor for ethnic minority neonates created a divide among both parents and HCPs. HCPs relied more heavily on other elements of the Apgar score or infant breathing and crying at birth to gauge infant wellness. When identifying cyanosis, HCPs depend on specific body locations for accurate assessment of oxygenation, but the limitations of visual assessment are acknowledged. For jaundice, most HCPs recognised the difficulty in identifying the colour yellow in infants with darker skin tones. HCPs focussed on yellowing of the sclera and gums and other well-being assessments to detect jaundice. Some interviewed parents noticed jaundice in their infants before HCPs but felt they were not listened to when raising concerns. HCPs acknowledged the need for additional training to effectively assess the health of ethnic minority infants.

Conclusion

This study highlights disparities in neonatal health assessment from the perspectives of healthcare professionals and parents from diverse backgrounds. Varied practices in determining the Apgar score and recognising cyanosis and jaundice signal the need for standardised protocols, appropriate educational materials, and targeted training. Addressing these challenges is vital for equitable care, emphasising comprehensive training and bias mitigation efforts in maternal and neonatal healthcare.
A master regulator of central carbon metabolism directly activates virulence gene expression in attaching and effacing pathogens
Authors: Wale Kabo R. , O’Boyle Nicky , McHugh Rebecca E. , Serrano Ester , Mark David R. , Douce Gillian R. , Connolly James P. R. , Roe Andrew J.
Published: October 2024

The ability of the attaching and effacing pathogens enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) and Citrobacter rodentium to overcome colonisation resistance is reliant on a type 3 secretion system used to intimately attach to the colonic epithelium. This crucial virulence factor is encoded on a pathogenicity island known as the Locus of Enterocyte Effacement (LEE) but its expression is regulated by several core-genome encoded transcription factors. Here, we unveil that the core transcription factor PdhR, traditionally known as a regulator of central metabolism in response to cellular pyruvate levels, is a key activator of the LEE. Through genetic and molecular analyses, we demonstrate that PdhR directly binds to a specific motif within the LEE master regulatory region, thus activating type 3 secretion directly and enhancing host cell adhesion. Deletion of pdhR in EHEC significantly impacted the transcription of hundreds of genes, with pathogenesis and protein secretion emerging as the most affected functional categories. Furthermore, in vivo studies using C. rodentium, a murine model for EHEC infection, revealed that PdhR is essential for effective host colonization and maximal LEE expression within the host. Our findings provide new insights into the complex regulatory networks governing bacterial pathogenesis. This research highlights the intricate relationship between virulence and metabolic processes in attaching and effacing pathogens, demonstrating how core transcriptional regulators can be co-opted to control virulence factor expression in tandem with the cell’s essential metabolic circuitry.
Discovery, recognized antigenic structures, and evolution of cross-serotype broadly neutralizing antibodies from porcine B-cell repertoires against foot-and-mouth disease virus
Authors: Li Fengjuan , Wu Shanquan , Lv Lv , Huang Shulun , Zhang Zelin , Zerang Zhaxi , Li Pinghua , Cao Yimei , Bao Huifang , Sun Pu , Bai Xingwen , He Yong , Fu Yuanfang , Yuan Hong , Ma Xueqing , Zhao Zhixun , Zhang Jing , Wang Jian , Wang Tao , Li Dong , Zhang Qiang , He Jijun , Liu Zaixin , Lu Zengjun , Lei Dongsheng , Li Kun
Published: October 2024

It is a great challenge to isolate the broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) against foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) due to its existence as seven distinct serotypes without cross-protection. Here, by vaccination of pig with FMDV serotypes O and A whole virus antigens, we obtained 10 bnAbs against serotypes O, A and/or Asia1 by dissecting 216 common clonotypes of two serotypes O and A specific porcine B-cell receptor (BCR) gene repertoires containing total 12720 B cell clones, indicating the induction of cross-serotype bnAbs after sequential vaccination with serotypes O and A antigens. The majority of porcine bnAbs (9/10) were derived from terminally differentiated B cells of different clonal lineages, which convergently targeted the conserved “RGDL” motif on structural protein VP1 of FMDV by mimicking receptor recognition to inhibit viral attachment to cells. Cryo-EM complex structures revealed that the other bnAb pOA-2 specifically targets a novel inter-pentamer antigen structure surrounding the viral three-fold axis, with a highly conserved determinant at residue 68 on VP2. This unique binding pattern enabled cross-serotype neutralization by destabilizing the viral particle. The evolutionary analysis of pOA-2 demonstrated its origin from an intermediate B-cell, emphasizing the crucial role of somatic hypermutations (SHMs) in balancing the breadth and potency of neutralization. However, excessive SHMs may deviate from the trajectory of broad neutralization. This study provides a strategy to uncover bnAbs against highly mutable pathogens and the cross-serotype antigenic structures to explore broadly protective FMDV vaccine.
trace, layer, play: Collective reflections on arts-based research experiences
Authors: Bao Xiaoxiao , Cheng Alice Yu-Chin , Freeman Anna , Gordon Robin Amy , Isurin Polina , Kim Aelim , McDermott Tamryn , Murteza Noor Danielle
Published: October 2024

This article presents reflections from a three-year journey (2020–23) of trace, layer, play (tlp), an arts-based research (ABR) collective. Formed out of the need for peer-to-peer interaction and a desire to share in-progress research through arts-based methods, tlp has become a community of graduate student members and alumni who share their in-progress research through exhibitions, workshops and conferences. In this article, eight of the current sixteen members reflect on their personal experiences in bridging theory with practice, intentional and unintentional play, and collaborative creation.
Addiction to Immoral behaviors: A Habitual Impediment to Self Actualization.
Authors: Ugwu Abel Friday
Published: October 2024

Addiction to immoral behaviors represents a significant obstacle to self-actualization, a concept popularized by psychologist Abraham Maslow. This article explores the nexus between immorality, addiction, and therance of personal growth. By analyzing the psychological underpinnings of immoral behaviors and their habitual nature, we can better understand how these addictions disrupt the journey toward self-actualization.
Language, Culture, and Identity: Navigating the intersections in Multicultural Society.
Authors: Ugwu Abel Friday
Published: October 2024

This article explores the intricate connections between language, culture, and identity, emphasizing how linguistic variation influences social interactions and shapes cultural perceptions in multicultural contexts. It investigates the role of language as a tool for promoting inclusivity and understanding among diverse populations. Additionally, the impact of digital communication on language evolution is examined, highlighting its implications for modern linguistic theory and practice. Through qualitative analysis and case studies, this work seeks to contribute to a broader understanding of the dynamic interplay between language and social identity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Scholars and Literati at the University of Vilnius (1578–1800)
Authors: De la Croix David , Gkopi Anna Maria
Published: October 2024

This note is a summary description of the set of scholars and literati who taught at the University of Vilnius from its inception in 1578 to 1800. For more detailed information about these individuals, please visit the comprehensive database available at https://shiny-lidam.sipr.ucl.ac.be/scholars/.
Breeding for flooding tolerance in rice: Advancements and future perspectives
Authors: Revannaswamy K M , Raveendran M , Pushpa R , Sathiya Bama K , Sritharan N , Manonmani S , Suresh R
Published: October 2024

Rice, the resilient grain, is cultivated in different types of ecosystems, from seacoast to hilly areas. Unfortunately, due to climate change, it frequently suffers from submergence stress during its growth period. Anoxic stress at the germination phase, flash flooding during the vegetative phase and water stagnation in low-lying areas are the major types of flooding in rice. When floodwaters rise, rice adapts. Some varieties stretch their stems toward the surface, gasping for air. Others remain dormant, conserving energy, like the FR13A landrace, SUB1 equips rice with underwater endurance. It orchestrates a genetic symphony, fine-tuning metabolic pathways and signalling survival. Some of the promising quantitative trait locus (QTLs) identified are qAG-9-2, which is responsible for anaerobic germination tolerance; qSUB1 for vegetative stage submergence tolerance, and qTIL12 for deep water adaptation. Identifying other novel QTLs and donors helps to breed varieties tolerant to different types of submergence stress. Along with Swarna SUB1, many mega-submergence-tolerant varieties have been developed and released for cultivation in Asia. As we cultivate these versatile survivors, we sow hope for a food-secure future.