bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loneliness at end‐of‐life: A scoping review
Authors: Ho Ken Hok Man , Yang Chen , Ng Marques Shek Nam , Tao An , Chan Helen Yue Lai
Published: May 2023

Aims and Objectives

To map and synthesise the literature on loneliness at end‐of‐life and identify key knowledge gaps in loneliness research.

Background

Declined health conditions, reduced social engagement, loss of social roles, and fear of death may lead to loneliness at end‐of‐life. However, systematic information about loneliness at end‐of‐life is scant.

Methods

This scoping review followed the methodology proposed by Arksey and O'Malley. Nine electronic databases were searched from January 2001 to July 2022. Studies about loneliness at end‐of‐life were included. Two review authors independently screened and selected relevant studies and performed the data charting. The PAGER framework was employed to collate, summarise and report the results. The PRISMA‐ScR checklist was included.

Results

A total of 23 studies were included in this review (12 qualitative, 10 quantitative, and one mixed‐methods design). There was not reliable data about the prevalence of loneliness among adults at end‐of‐life internationally. Three or 20‐item UCLA loneliness scale was frequently used to measure loneliness. Factors predisposed adults at end‐of‐life to loneliness included passive and active withdrawal from social networks, inability to share emotions and to be understood, and inadequate support on spirituality. Four strategies were identified to alleviate loneliness, yet none have been substantiated in clinical trials. Interventions facilitating spirituality, social interactions and connectedness seem effective in alleviating loneliness.

Conclusions

This is the first scoping review on loneliness at end‐of‐life, synthesising evidence from qualitative, quantitative, and mixed‐methods studies. Loneliness among adults at end‐of‐life is under‐investigated and there is a prominent need to address existential loneliness at end‐of‐life.

Relevance to clinical practice

All nurses should proactively assess loneliness or perceived social isolation for clients with life‐limiting conditions, regardless of social networks. Collaborative efforts (e.g., medical‐social collaborations) to promote self‐worthiness, social engagement and connectedness with significant others and social networks are needed.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.
Sleep duration and inflammatory mediator levels associated with long‐term prognosis in temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Kim Yibee , Son Chunghwan , Park Yoon Kyung , Jo Jung Hwan , Park Ji Woon
Published: May 2023

Background

Sleep disturbance is a systemic symptom and at the same time a major modulating factor of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Inflammation is known as a underlying mechanism involved in both poor sleep and increased pain.

Objective

The relationship between long‐term clinical characteristics and hematologic biomarkers of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity and inflammation in TMD patients according to sleep duration was investigated to verify the possible role of sleep disturbance and systemic inflammation in TMD.

Materials and methods

Inflammatory and stress mediator levels of venous blood samples were investigated in 63 female TMD patients along with comorbidity levels including stress, somatization, autonomic symptoms and sleep quality based on structured questionnaires. Differences in long‐term clinical characteristics and hematologic variables following conservative treatment were analysed according to total sleep time as normal, short and long sleep groups. Also, clinical and hematologic indices related to favourable treatment response were sought out.

Results

Significantly less patients in the long sleep group reported pain on voluntary mandibular movement (p = .042) while depression (p = .043) and somatization levels (p = .002) were significantly higher in the short sleep group. Norepinephrine levels of the long sleep group were significantly lower than other groups. Decrease in pain intensity with treatment was smallest in the short sleep group. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate was associated with significant pain improvement at 3 months post‐treatment and interleukin‐1β, ‐4, and ‐8 levels could predict favourable treatment response.

Conclusion

Short sleep is associated with more comorbidities and unfavourable long‐term treatment response in TMD which may be mediated by systemic inflammation. Effective management of sleep is necessary for successful TMD management.
First case of Rhinocladiella mackenziei brain abscess in Turkey: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kucukkaya Ilvana Caklovica , Gulsever Cafer Ikbal , Dolas Ilyas , Genc Gonca Erkose , Kuskucu Mert Ahmet , Sabanci Pulat Akin , Erturan Zayre
Published: May 2023

Rhinocladiella mackenziei is a highly neurotropic fungus, mainly reported from the Middle East. However, in recent years, there have been some cases from outside this region. We described an additional fatal case of R. mackenziei cerebral infection for the first time from Turkey and made a literature review of all previously reported cases. During 34 years (1988–2022), there have been 42 R. mackenziei brain abscess cases. Most patients have been reported from Saudi Arabia (n = 14, 33.3%). It is noteworthy that 40.5% of patients, including our case, were immunocompetent at initial diagnosis and mostly presented with a single lesion (n = 10, 23.8%). The most frequent comorbidities were solid organ transplant (n = 9, 21.4%), diabetes mellitus (n = 6, 14.3%), malignancy (n = 6, 14.3%) and prior surgery (n = 3, 7.1%). The most commonly used initial antifungal regimen were amphotericin B together with itraconazole (n = 9, 21.4%), combinations of lipid preparations of amphotericin B, voriconazole and/or posaconazole (n = 9, 21.4%) and amphotericin B alone (n = 8, 19%). Although both surgical procedures and antifungal medication in the majority of patients were performed, mortality rates remained high (90.4%). The area at risk of R. mackenziei cerebral abscess cases extends to other countries. Clinicians should be aware of this emerging disease and take a detailed travel history in patients with atypical and undocumented brain abscesses. Our case confirms the hypothesis that this fungus might spread more widely than previously predicted regions.
Cerebral creatine deficiency syndrome with a novel missense variant in SLC6A8 gene
Authors: Turan Betül , Göktaş Emine , Sönmez F. Mujgan , Aydin Halil Ibrahim , Aydogdu Demet , Zamani Ayse Gul , Yildirim Mahmut Selman
Published: May 2023

Cerebral creatine deficiency syndromes (CCDS) are three metabolic diseases characterized by loss of function in three proteins (GATM, GAMT, and SLC6A8) that required in creatine (Cr) synthesis pathway and transport. In this study, we aimed to identify the causal variant in a male who was 12‐year‐old manifesting intellectual disability (ID), seizures, expressive dysphasia and autism‐like behavior. Urinary Cr metabolite measurements and MRI‐spectroscopy (MRS) findings were consistent with CCDS. Molecular analysis revealed de novo hemizygous SLC6A8 (NM_005629.4): c.1400 T > G (p.Met467Arg) variant. The variant was not found in ClinVar, (the date of access: April 23th, 2023) and population databases (ExAC, gnomAD, 1000 Genomes, ESP 6500, Turkish Variome, GenomeAsia, Iranome, GME Variome, TOPMed Bravo and 4.7KJPN), it alters the physicochemical properties of the amino acid, the region is moderately conserved across species and in‐silico prediction tools (REVEL, CADD, SIFT, PolyPhen2, Mutation Taster, MetaLR, MCAP, MetaRNN and MutPred) unanimously emphasize pathogenicity. Based on this evidence, the variant was interpreted as “likely pathogenic” according to the ACMG criteria (PS2, PM2,PP3, and PP4‐S). This report may further elucidate the nature and phenotypic consequences of SLC6A8 variants.
Re‐examining the evidence for the mother tree hypothesis – resource sharing among trees via ectomycorrhizal networks
Authors: Henriksson Nils , Marshall John , Högberg Mona N. , Högberg Peter , Polle Andrea , Franklin Oskar , Näsholm Torgny
Published: May 2023

Seminal scientific papers positing that mycorrhizal fungal networks can distribute carbon (C) among plants have stimulated a popular narrative that overstory trees, or ‘mother trees’, support the growth of seedlings in this way. This narrative has far‐reaching implications for our understanding of forest ecology and has been controversial in the scientific community. We review the current understanding of ectomycorrhizal C metabolism and observations on forest regeneration that make the mother tree narrative debatable. We then re‐examine data and conclusions from publications that underlie the mother tree hypothesis. Isotopic labeling methods are uniquely suited for studying element fluxes through ecosystems, but the complexity of mycorrhizal symbiosis, low detection limits, and small carbon discrimination in biological processes can cause researchers to make important inferences based on miniscule shifts in isotopic abundance, which can be misleading. We conclude that evidence of a significant net C transfer via common mycorrhizal networks that benefits the recipients is still lacking. Furthermore, a role for fungi as a C pipeline between trees is difficult to reconcile with any adaptive advantages for the fungi. Finally, the hypothesis is neither supported by boreal forest regeneration patterns nor consistent with the understanding of physiological mechanisms controlling mycorrhizal symbiosis.
Genomics of turions from the Greater Duckweed reveal its pathways for dormancy and re‐emergence strategy
Authors: Pasaribu Buntora , Acosta Kenneth , Aylward Anthony , Liang Yuanxue , Abramson Bradley W. , Colt Kelly , Hartwick Nolan T. , Shanklin John , Michael Todd P. , Lam Eric
Published: May 2023

Over 15 families of aquatic plants are known to use a strategy of developmental switching upon environmental stress to produce dormant propagules called turions. However, few molecular details for turion biology have been elucidated due to the difficulties in isolating high‐quality nucleic acids from this tissue.

We successfully developed a new protocol to isolate high‐quality transcripts and carried out RNA‐seq analysis of mature turions from the Greater Duckweed Spirodela polyrhiza. Comparison of turion transcriptomes to that of fronds, the actively growing leaf‐like tissue, were carried out.

Bioinformatic analysis of high confidence, differentially expressed transcripts between frond and mature turion tissues revealed major pathways related to stress tolerance, starch and lipid metabolism, and dormancy that are mobilized to reprogram frond meristems for turion differentiation. We identified the key genes that are likely to drive starch and lipid accumulation during turion formation, as well as those in pathways for starch and lipid utilization upon turion germination. Comparison of genome‐wide cytosine methylation levels also revealed evidence for epigenetic changes in the formation of turion tissues.

Similarities between turions and seeds provide evidence that key regulators for seed maturation and germination were retooled for their function in turion biology.
Priming grapevine with lipopolysaccharide confers systemic resistance to Pierce's disease and identifies a peroxidase linked to defense priming
Authors: Castro Claudia , Massonnet Mélanie , Her Nancy , DiSalvo Biagio , Jablonska Barbara , Jeske Daniel R. , Cantu Dario , Roper M. Caroline
Published: May 2023

Priming is an adaptive mechanism that fortifies plant defense by enhancing activation of induced defense responses following pathogen challenge. Microorganisms have signature microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) that induce the primed state. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) MAMP isolated from the xylem‐limited pathogenic bacterium, Xylella fastidiosa, acts as a priming stimulus in Vitis vinifera grapevines. Grapevines primed with LPS developed significantly less internal tyloses and external disease symptoms than naive vines.

Differential gene expression analysis indicated major transcriptomic reprogramming during the priming and postpathogen challenge phases. Furthermore, the number of differentially expressed genes increased temporally and spatially in primed vines, but not in naive vines during the postpathogen challenge phase.

Using a weighted gene co‐expression analysis, we determined that primed vines have more genes that are co‐expressed in both local and systemic petioles than naive vines indicating an inherent synchronicity that underlies the systemic response to this vascular pathogen specific to primed plants.

We identified a cationic peroxidase, VviCP1, that was upregulated during the priming and postpathogen challenge phases in an LPS‐dependent manner. Transgenic expression of VviCP1 conferred significant disease resistance, thus, demonstrating that grapevine is a robust model for mining and expressing genes linked to defense priming and disease resistance.
Early Years Multi‐grade Classes and Pupil Attainment*
Authors: Borbely Daniel , Gehrsitz Markus , McIntyre Stuart , Rossi Gennaro , Roy Graeme
Published: May 2023

We study the effect of exposure to older, more experienced, classroom peers resulting from the widespread use of multi‐grade classes in Scottish primary schools. For identification, we exploit that a class‐planning algorithm quasi‐randomly assigns groups of pupils to multi‐grade classes. We find that school‐starters benefit from exposure to second‐graders in measures of numeracy and literacy. We do not find any evidence that these gains are driven by smaller class sizes or more parental input. While short‐lived, these benefits accrue independent of socioeconomic background, to boys and girls alike, and our results provide no evidence that they come at the expense of older peers from the preceding cohort.
Only Children and Cognitive Ability in Childhood: A Cross‐Cohort Analysis over 50 Years in the United Kingdom
Authors: Goisis Alice , Chanfreau Jenny , Moulton Vanessa , Ploubidis George B.
Published: May 2023

Only children's uniqueness has intrigued researchers for decades, but many gaps in knowledge remain as to whether only children differ from children who have siblings. We use data from four British birth cohorts (born in 1946, 1958, 1970, 2000–2002) to investigate cross‐cohort differences in the composition of only child families and whether the association between being an only child and cognitive ability in childhood has changed over time. Only children show similar scores to children from two child families and higher scores than children with two or more siblings across each of the cohorts analyzed. However, the results also show that—consistent with the finding that, across cohorts, the composition of the only child group has become more associated with social disadvantage—the “only child advantage” has weakened when comparing the most recent birth cohort to the older ones. Adjustment by family sociodemographic characteristics attenuates within and cross‐cohort differences. Moreover, the results show that the cognitive advantages associated with being an only child vary considerably by whether the cohort member has been exposed to parental separation or is growing up in a family with lower socioeconomic status. The results highlight diversity in being an only child whose characteristics are conditional on changes throughout time and society.
A dramatic decline in fruit citrate induced by mutagenesis of a NAC transcription factor, AcNAC1
Authors: Fu Bei‐ling , Wang Wen‐qiu , Li Xiang , Qi Tong‐hui , Shen Qiu‐fang , Li Kun‐feng , Liu Xiao‐fen , Li Shao‐jia , Allan Andrew C. , Yin Xue‐ren
Published: May 2023

Citrate is a common primary metabolite which often characterizes fruit flavour. The key regulators of citrate accumulation in fruit and vegetables are poorly understood. We systematically analysed the dynamic profiles of organic acid components during the development of kiwifruit (Actinidia spp.). Citrate continuously accumulated so that it became the predominate contributor to total acidity at harvest. Based on a co‐expression network analysis using different kiwifruit cultivars, an Al‐ACTIVATED MALATE TRANSPORTER gene (AcALMT1) was identified as a candidate responsible for citrate accumulation. Electrophysiological assays using expression of this gene in Xenopus oocytes revealed that AcALMT1 functions as a citrate transporter. Additionally, transient overexpression of AcALMT1 in kiwifruit significantly increased citrate content, while tissues showing higher AcALMT1 expression accumulated more citrate. The expression of AcALMT1 was highly correlated with 17 transcription factor candidates. However, dual‐luciferase and EMSA assays indicated that only the NAC transcription factor, AcNAC1, activated AcALMT1 expression via direct binding to its promoter. Targeted CRISPR‐Cas9‐induced mutagenesis of AcNAC1 in kiwifruit resulted in dramatic declines in citrate levels while malate and quinate levels were not substantially affected. Our findings show that transcriptional regulation of a major citrate transporter, by a NAC transcription factor, is responsible for citrate accumulation in kiwifruit, which has broad implications for other fruits and vegetables.
Challenges, successes, and recommendations for management of coastal sandplain grasslands as regional biodiversity hotspots in the northeastern United States
Authors: Bois Sarah , Neill Christopher , Whittemore Michael , Champlin Lena , Beattie Karen , Hopping Russell , Karberg Jennifer , Lombard Karen , Omand Kelly , Weigand Polly , Wernerehl Robert
Published: May 2023

A high proportion of regional plant biodiversity occurs in hotspots of species richness that cover small areas created and maintained by disturbance. Sustaining plant diversity in these areas requires region‐ and habitat‐specific management of disturbance and, increasingly, habitat expansion or restoration to offset species losses. Coastal sandplain grasslands are threatened, disturbance‐controlled plant biodiversity hotspots in the northeastern United States. We formed a network of grassland managers and scientists to review the published and unpublished sandplain grassland literature. Additionally, we conducted interviews with grassland managers about management challenges and successes. Principal concerns of managers were increases in woody plant cover, losses of rare species, increased cover and variety of invasive species, and constraints on the ability to use prescribed fire. The literature review and managers' experiences together led to the following recommendations: (1) increase applications of prescribed burning and mowing during the growing season when possible; (2) expand selective removal of woody plants including herbicide use; (3) test the application of harrowing or disking to reduce woody plant density especially in places where invasive plant densities are low; and (4) increase applications of combinations of disturbances in rotations with occasional fire. At regional scales, monitoring of management effects, identification of parcels for potential grassland expansion and restoration, and increased supplies of native seeds of plant ecotypes to use for restoration ahead of climate change are badly needed. Formation of networks of managers and scientists to share information and experiences has the potential to greatly improve land management within other biodiversity hotspots.
Governing resettlement beyond safety: Multilevel governance as a model for sustainable resettlement of unaccompanied refugee children in rural Sweden?
Authors: Asztalos Morell Ildikó
Published: May 2023

This article explores the sustainability of the resettlement of unaccompanied refugee children from their perspective. Against the backdrop of a critical assessment of the multilevel governance of resettlement, it compares two rural municipalities. Unaccompanied refugee children in the municipality with a disempowering local governance model were hindered to engage with civil society, while in the municipality with an enabling model, their integration was enhanced. Achieving safety by legal residency does not by itself resolve the liminalities of belonging to unaccompanied refugee children. Beyond positive engagement by professionals, supporting encounters with civil society were found to enhance integration and belonging, while the lack of these strengthened marginalities. Unaccompanied refugee children resettlement is largely influenced by the benevolence of local actors when the state vacates its responsibility to co‐ordinate efforts. While civil society has an important role to play, a helping civil society cannot be assumed. Tensions rose also due to the collision between institutional styles. The marketisation of refugee reception at the national level led to loss of ability to plan schooling in rural municipalities, reinforcing practices of physical and symbolic segregation of children in the refugee context education. These accounts shed also light on the resilience of unaccompanied refugee children encountering local resettlement efforts emerging in the context of increasingly securitised asylum policies.
Molecular characterization of vancomycin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from bovine milk
Authors: Muzammil Iqra , Ijaz Muhammad , Saleem Muhammad Hassan , Ali Muhammad Muddassir
Published: May 2023

Vancomycin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) is a zoonotic life‐threatening pathogen. Vancomycin exhibits anti‐bacterial activity by inhibiting peptidoglycan synthesis by binding to the D‐ala‐D‐ala terminus of the peptidoglycan. But in VRSA, D‐ala‐D‐ala is replaced by D‐ala‐D‐lactate due to the presence of vanA, vanB or vanD genes. This study was intended to identify the molecular prevalence of VRSA in 768 bovine milk samples, risk factor association, antibiogram profile and bioinformatics analysis of VRSA by targeting vanB gene. Out of a total of 248 S. aureus isolates from mastitic milk samples, the phenotypic and genotypic prevalence of VRSA was estimated to be 17.74% and 10.89%, respectively. Farm‐level risk factors including use of improper milking technique, lack of milker's care during milking, unhygienic conditions during milking and no dry cow therapy were found to be significantly associated (p < 0.05). Anti‐microbial susceptibility testing of VRSA isolates exhibited the highest resistance to oxytetracycline, followed by oxacillin and Trimethoprim+sulfamethoxazole. The current study sequences showed more resemblance with reported sequences from Iraq (MN747834) and Egypt (MK095504, MK087830), which belong to vanB gene from S. aureus as compared to sequences from other countries, which belong to vanB gene from the genus Enterococcus. The Genetic Algorithm for Recombination Detection (GARD) found 234 potential breakpoints, translating into a search room of 123,883,305 models with up to 4 breakpoints. The phylogenetic motif profiling method discovered evolutionarily conserved residues across target genes' homologous protein sequences. These residues were discovered to be conserved in drug‐resistant target proteins over the evolutionary process and may play a key role in their function. The current study revealed a molecular prevalence of VRSA in dairy animals, along with molecular analysis of vancomycin resistance in S. aureus by targeting the vanB gene using standard bioinformatics tools. The occurrence of VRSA in animals requires serious attention because this pathogen has zoonotic potential, so it can become a greater risk to consumer health.
Helson zeta functions for characters with finitely many values
Authors: Bochkov I.
Published: May 2023

We show that the analytic continuations of Helson zeta functions can have essentially arbitrary poles and zeroes in the strip (unconditionally), and in the whole critical strip under Riemann Hypothesis, with the function taking values in cubic roots of unity. If the sets of zeroes and poles are symmetric with respect to the real axis, the same can be achieved with taking values . The proof is constructive.
Cascaded microfluidic circuits for pulsatile filtration of extracellular vesicles from whole blood for early cancer diagnosis
Authors: Li Zhenglin , Liu Chao , Cheng Yangchang , Li Yike , Deng Jinqi , Bai Lixiao , Qin Lili , Mei Huili , Zeng Min , Tian Fei , Zhang Shaohua , Sun Jiashu
Published: May 2023

Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold the potential to substantially improve noninvasive early diagnosis of cancer. However, analysis of nanosized EVs in blood samples has been hampered by lack of effective, rapid, and standardized methods for isolating and detecting EVs. To address this difficulty, here we use the electric-hydraulic analogy to design cascaded microfluidic circuits for pulsatile filtration of EVs via integration of a cell-removal circuit and an EV-isolation circuit. The microfluidic device is solely driven by a pneumatic clock pulse generator, allowing for preprogrammed, clog-free, gentle, high-yield, and high-purity isolation of EVs directly from blood within 30 minutes. We demonstrate its clinical utility by detecting protein markers of isolated EVs from patient blood using a polyethylene glycol–enhanced thermophoretic aptasensor, with 91% accuracy for diagnosis of early-stage breast cancer. The cascaded microfluidic circuits can have broad applications in the field of EV research.
Correlated insulator of excitons in WSe
2
/WS
2
moiré superlattices
Authors: Xiong Richen , Nie Jacob H. , Brantly Samuel L. , Hays Patrick , Sailus Renee , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Tongay Sefaattin , Jin Chenhao
Published: May 2023

A panoply of unconventional electronic states has been observed in moiré superlattices. Engineering similar bosonic phases remains, however, largely unexplored. We report the observation of a bosonic correlated insulator in tungsten diselenide/tungsten disulfide (WSe
2
/WS
2
) moiré superlattices composed of excitons, that is, tightly bound electron-hole pairs. We develop a pump probe spectroscopy method that we use to observe an exciton incompressible state at exciton filling ν
ex
= 1 and charge neutrality, indicating a correlated insulator of excitons. With varying charge density, the bosonic correlated insulator continuously transitions into an electron correlated insulator at charge filling ν
e
= 1, suggesting a mixed correlated insulating state between the two limits. Our studies establish semiconducting moiré superlattices as an intriguing platform for engineering bosonic phases.
Mitochondrial Glycerol-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Restricts HBV Replication via the TRIM28-Mediated Degradation of HBx
Authors: Liu Canyu , Zhao Kaitao , Chen Yingshan , Yao Yongxuan , Tang Jielin , Wang Jingjing , Xu Chonghui , Yang Qi , Zheng Yi , Yuan Yifei , Sun Hao , Zhang Yongli , Zhou Yuan , Chen Jizheng , Wang Yun , Wu Chunchen , Pei Rongjuan , Chen Xinwen
Published: May 2023

The glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) shuttle is important for the delivery of cytosolic reducing equivalents into mitochondria for oxidative phosphorylation. The study analyzed two key components of the G3P shuttle and identified GPD2 as a restriction factor in HBV replication.
Kindy Moves: the feasibility of an intensive interdisciplinary programme on goal and motor outcomes for preschool-aged children with neurodisabilities requiring daily equipment and physical assistance
Authors: Haddon Matthew , West Loren , Elliott Catherine , Walmsley Corrin , Valentine Jane , Bear Natasha , Pool Dayna
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To determine the feasibility of an intensive interdisciplinary programme in improving goal and motor outcomes for preschool-aged children with non-progressive neurodisabilities. The primary hypothesis was that the intervention would be feasible.

Design

A single group feasibility study.

Setting

An Australian paediatric community therapy provider.

Participants

Forty children were recruited. Inclusion criteria were age 2–5 years with a non-progressive neurodisability, Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels III–V or equivalent, and goals relating to mobility, communication and upper limb function. Exclusion criteria included orthopaedic surgery in the past 6 months, unstable hip subluxation, uncontrolled seizure disorder or treadmill training in the past month.

Intervention

A goal-directed programme of three 2-hour sessions per week for 4 weeks (24 hours total). This consisted of treadmill and overground walking, communication practice, and upper limb tasks tailored by an interdisciplinary team.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Limited-efficacy measures from preintervention (T1) to postintervention (T2) and 4-week follow-up (T3) included the Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66) and 10-Metre Walk Test (10MWT). Acceptability, demand, implementation and practicality were also explored.

Results

There were improvements at T2 compared with T1 for all limited-efficacy measures. The GAS improved at T2 (mean difference (MD) 27.7, 95% CI 25.8 to 29.5) as well as COPM performance (MD 3.2, 95% CI 2.8 to 3.6) and satisfaction (MD 3.3, 95% CI 2.8 to 3.8). The GMFM-66 (MD 2.3, 95% CI 1.0 to 3.5) and 10MWT (median difference −2.3, 95% CI −28.8 to 0.0) improved at T2. Almost all improvements were maintained at T3. Other feasibility components were also demonstrated. There were no adverse events.

Conclusions

An intensive interdisciplinary programme is feasible in improving goal and motor outcomes for preschool children with neurodisabilities (GMFCS III–V or equivalent). A randomised controlled trial is warranted to establish efficacy.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12619000064101.
Cluster randomised trial to evaluate comprehensive approach to hypertension management in Nepal: a study protocol
Authors: Bhattarai Sanju , Shrestha Archana , Skovlund Eva , Åsvold Bjørn Olav , Mjølstad Bente Prytz , Sen Abhijit
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Despite having effective approaches for hypertension management including use of antihypertensive medication, monitoring of blood pressure and lifestyle modification many people with hypertension in Nepal remain undetected and untreated. A comprehensive intervention which provides personalised counselling on lifestyle modification, medication adherence together with support for regular monitoring of blood pressure is expected to achieve well controlled blood pressure.

Methods and analysis

This is a community-based, non-blinded, parallel group, two-arm cluster randomised controlled trial, with an allocation ratio of 1:1, conducted in Budhanilkantha municipality, Nepal. Ten health facilities and their catchment area are randomly allocated to either of the two arms. 1250 individuals aged 18 years and older with an established diagnosis of hypertension will be recruited. The intervention arm receives a comprehensive hypertension management package that includes blood pressure audit by health workers, home-based patient support by community health workers to engage patient and family members in providing tailored educational counselling on behavioural and lifestyle changes in addition to routine care. The control arm includes routine hypertension care. Trained enumerators will ensure consent and collect data. Outcome data on blood pressure, weight, waist and hip circumference will be measured and self-reported data on diet, lifestyle, medication adherence and hypertension knowledge will be registered at 11 months’ follow-up. The change in outcome measures will be compared by intention to treat, using a generalised linear mixed model. A formative assessment will be conducted using semistructured interviews and focus group discussions to explore factors affecting hypertension management. A mix-method approach will be applied for process evaluation to explore acceptability, adoption, fidelity, feasibility and coverage.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from Nepal Health Research Council (682/2021) and Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics, Norway (399479). The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journal articles and with decision makers in Nepal.
Influence of the invasive bivalve Isognomon bicolor on the native community found in northeast Brazilian coast
Authors: de Queiroz Romilda Narciza Mendonça , de Barros Graciele , de Oliveira Linaldo Luiz , Avelino Camile Dias , Dias Thelma Lúcia Pereira
Published: May 2023

The Caribbean bivalve Isognomon bicolor (C. B. Adams, 1845) is currently among the main invasive species along the Brazilian coast. The present study evaluated the co-occurrence, influence, and relationship of the native macrobenthic community with I. bicolor. The study was performed on samples collected from two sandstone reefs located in Northeast Brazil. We observed that the macrobenthic community differed significantly across reefs, zones, and seasons. The higher density of I. bicolor in the lower intertidal zone (347.7 ind/m² ± 800.8) was one of the main differentiation factors of zonation. The results indicated that the evenness of the community and some gastropods had a negative effect on I. bicolor. We found a negative correlation between the co-occurrence of I. bicolor with the macroalgae Hypnea sp. and Gracilaria caudata J. Agardh 1852 and the microgastropod Eulithidium affine (C. B. Adams, 1850). This study provides data on the relationship between I. bicolor and the native community of sandstone reefs, which could be applied to monitor the expansion of I. bicolor to the Northeast region of Brazil.
Light quark jet quenching in higher-derivative gravity
Authors: Zhang Zi-qiang , Zhu Xiangrong , Hou De-fu
Published: May 2023

We study finite-coupling corrections on the energy loss of light quarks in strongly coupled$${\mathcal {N}}=4$$N=4super Yang–Mills (SYM) plasma. We perform the analysis by computing the stopping distance of an image jet induced by a massless source field, characterized by a massless particle falling along the null geodesic in Einstein gravity with curvature-squared ($$R^2$$R2) corrections. It turns out that the stopping distance in the$$R^2$$R2theories can be larger or smaller than its SYM counterpart depending on the higher-derivative coefficients. Moreover, we evaluate the stopping distance in the Gauss–Bonnet background and find that increasing$$\lambda _\textrm{GB}$$λGB(a dimensionless parameter in Gauss–Bonnet gravity) leads to a decrease in the stopping distance, thus enhancing the energy loss of light quarks, in agreement with previous findings for the drag force, jet quenching parameter, and the instantaneous energy loss of light quarks using shooting strings.
Extended GUP formulation and the role of momentum cut-off
Authors: Segreto Sebastiano , Montani Giovanni
Published: May 2023

We analyze the extension of the GUP theory deriving from the modified uncertainty principle in agreement with the string low energy limit, which represents one of the most general formulations satisfying the Jacobi identity, in the context of the associative algebras. After providing some physical insights on the nature of the considered approaches exploiting the cosmological arena, first, we show how a natural formulation of the theory in an infinite momentum space does not lead to the emergence of a nonzero minimal uncertainty in position, then we construct a truncated formulation of the theory in momentum space, proving that only in this case we can recover the desired feature of the presence of a nonzero minimal uncertainty in position, which – as usual in these theories – can be interpreted as a phenomenological manifestation of cut-off physics effects. Both quantization schemes are completely characterized and finally applied to study wave packets’ behavior and their evolution in time. The obtained results can shed light on which generalizations of the GUP theory are more coherent with the string low energy limit, in view of the existence of a minimum length in the form of a minimal uncertainty in position.
Mass of compact stars in f(T) gravity
Authors: de Araujo J. C. N. , Fortes H. G. M.
Published: May 2023

The mass of compact objects in General Relativity (GR), which as is well known, is obtained via the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkov (TOV) equations, is a well defined quantity. However, in alternative gravity, this is not in general the case. In the particular case of f(T) gravity, where T is the scalar torsion, some authors consider that this is still an open question, since it is not guaranteed that the same equation used in TOV GR holds. In this paper we consider such an important issue and compare different ways to calculate the mass of compact objects in f(T) gravity. In particular, we argue that one of them, the asymptotic mass, may be the most appropriate way to calculate mass in this theory. We adopt realistic equations of state in all the models presented in this article.
SMEFiT: a flexible toolbox for global interpretations of particle physics data with effective field theories
Authors: Giani Tommaso , Magni Giacomo , Rojo Juan
Published: May 2023

The Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT) provides a robust framework to interpret experimental measurements in the context of new physics scenarios while minimising assumptions on the nature of the underlying UV-complete theory. We present the Python open source SMEFiT framework, designed to carry out parameter inference in the SMEFT within a global analysis of particle physics data. SMEFiT is suitable for inference problems involving a large number of EFT degrees of freedom, without restrictions on their functional dependence in the fitted observables, can include UV-inspired restrictions in the parameter space, and implements arbitrary rotations between operator bases. Posterior distributions are determined from two complementary approaches, Nested Sampling and Monte Carlo optimisation. SMEFiT is released together with documentation, tutorials, and post-analysis reporting tools, and can be used to carry out state-of-the-art EFT fits of Higgs, top quark, and electroweak production data. To illustrate its functionalities, we reproduce the results of the recent ATLAS EFT interpretation of Higgs and electroweak data from Run II and demonstrate how equivalent results are obtained in two different operator bases.
Non-spherical sources of Schwarzschild space-time
Authors: Hernández-Pastora J. L. , Herrera L.
Published: May 2023

While it is known that any spherical fluid distribution may only source the spherically symmetric Schwarzschild space-time, the inverse is not true. Thus, in this manuscript, we find exact axially symmetric and static fluid (interior) solutions to Einstein equations, which match smoothly on the boundary surface to the Schwarzschild (exterior) space-time, even though the fluid distribution is not endowed with spherical symmetry. The solutions are obtained by using the general approach outlined in Hernández-Pastora et al. (Class Quantum Gravity 33:235005, 2016), and satisfy the usual requirements imposed to any physically admissible interior solution. A discussion about the physical and geometric properties of the source is presented. The relativistic multipole moments (RMM) are explicitly calculated in terms of the physical variables, allowing to prove that spherical sources can only match to the Schwarzschild space-time. The complexity of the source is evaluated through the complexity factors. It is shown that there is only one independent complexity factor, as in the spherically symmetric case.
What’s in a name?
Authors: Monfort-Urkizu Beñat , Navarro Jaume
Published: May 2023

The development and evolution of the “Einstein–Æther Theory” (Æ-theory) shows that there is a field in cosmology where the word ether is being used again. It is unclear, however, whether this æther may be regarded in continuation with previous ethers, or it is an altogether new entity. The main goal of this paper is to understand the nature of this new ether in the context of previous instances of this scientific object. In order to do so, we shall first give a brief historical account of the distinct uses the word had assumed in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, before its demise. Then, we shall describe the major attempts to revive the ether over the last century, focusing on the last endeavor: the Æ-theory. In this article, we do not intend to support or reject this new use of the word, but to stress the complexity of establishing a consistent historical narrative of some scientific objects like the ether.
Facile Preparation of Porous Diamond Films via Microwave Plasma Based on Metal Particles Heterogeneous Catalysis Etching
Authors: Chu Genjie , Ma Yanjia , Guo Shenghui , Ullah Ehsan , Feng Shuguang , Gao Jiyun , Hou Ming , Yang Li
Published: May 2023

The porous diamond film was fabricated via a self-developed microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) system in H2/Ar plasma by utilizing micrometer-sized diamond films coated with nickel as starting material. SEM and Raman spectroscopy were used to evaluate the evolution of the morphology and sp3 phase of porous diamond with changes in the surface treatment process parameters, including the etching temperature and time. The results indicate that once the etching temperature exceeds 700 °C, the pitting etching phenomenon can be observed on the surface of diamond film. In a certain range, increasing the etching time increases the depth of surface holes on diamond film, whereas the microporous density exhibits an inverted parabolic change pattern. The porous diamond films with uniform pores structure can be obtained by adopting optimal etching process parameter when the H2/Ar plasma temperature is determined at 900 °C for 30 min. The porous formation mechanism of diamond film is attributed to the nickel particles’ heterogeneous catalysis behavior, which promotes the transition route from diamond phase to graphite phase, followed by the preferential etching of graphite phase by H2/Ar plasma.
Investigation on Temperature-Dependent Electrical Transport Behavior of Cobalt Ferrite (CoFe2O4) for Thermistor Applications
Authors: Naik Ananga Uday , Mallick Priyambada , Sahu Meena Kumari , Biswal L. , Satpathy Santosh Ku. , Behera Banarji
Published: May 2023

This paper discusses the temperature and frequency-dependent dielectric and electrical transport properties of cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) and its suitability for thermistor applications. The material is prepared through a high-temperature solid-state reaction route. The formation of the materials is checked by using an X-ray diffraction. Microstructure study is done through SEM analysis. Analysis of dielectric data shows a thermally activated relaxation process occuring in the material within the studied frequency range. Analysis of complex impedance (Nyquist) plots at different temperatures reveal the contribution of grain to the overall electrical response of the compound. The variation of dc conductivity with temperature shows the NTCR behavior of the material. Looking into the strong dependence of resistivity on temperature, the thermistor parameters are evaluated using the grain resistance at different temperatures, which suggest the possible application for thermistor-based devices as well as a temperature sensor. The temperature-dependent ac conductivity (σ
ac) fits well with Jonscher’s universal power law. The activation energy calculated from the temperature-dependent spectroscopic plots of impedance and conductivity suggests the charge carriers involved in deciding transport properties.
COVID struggles: undergraduate teaching assistants balance teaching and learning during a pandemic
Authors: Zarandi A. , Wen A. , Rangachari P. K.
Published: May 2023

Undergraduate teaching assistants balance teaching others with their own learning during the recent pandemic. Their struggles provide an inside look into a student's plight.
Proposing a Graphic Simulator for an Upper Limb Exoskeleton Robot
Authors: Nguyen Thanh-Trung , Nguyen Tien , Pham Ha , Bui Tam
Published: May 2023

In this study, a graphic simulator that is used to simulate problems related to kinematics and dynamics for an exoskeleton robot arm with 5 degrees of freedom (DoF) was presented. The graphic simulator utilized the advantages of design software SolidWorks, Catia, and the computing and simulation power of SimMechanics Toolbox in Matlab. The core of the proposed graphic simulator is algorithm to solve the kinematics and dynamic problems of a developing upper-limb rehabilitation robot. The study used the proposed optimization-based algorithm to solve the inverse kinematics (IK) problem for the redundant robot model. Endpoint trajectories were imported from measurement data. The joints variable solutions obtained before entering the dynamics problem were smoothed to ensure feasibility in the later calculation process. A process to solve the inverse dynamics problem using physical model by combining the power of two software SolidWorks and SimMechanics was also proposed. This process ensured that the Robot’s design could be changed and updated to the kinematics calculation fast and easily. To evaluate this procedure, we also compared these dynamics results with results when applying the Lagrange–Euler formulation. All these calculation and simulation processes have been integrated into the graphic simulator software to show efficiency and user-friendliness.
Aqueous Extract of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.): Role in Cancer and Inflammation
Authors: Khedkar Shubrata , Ahmad Khan Minhaj
Published: May 2023

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.; family Lauraceae), a plant widely used as a spice and flavoring agent and in the perfume industry, has high therapeutic value. However, the components and chemical properties of cinnamon extracts vary depending on the part of the plant, the method, and the solvent used for extraction. Green extraction methods using safe and green solvents have gained increased interest in recent years. Water is an environmentally friendly and safe green solvent widely used for preparing cinnamon extracts. This review focuses on the various preparation techniques for the aqueous extract of cinnamon, its major bioactive components, and their beneficial roles in different pathological conditions, specifically cancer and inflammation. The aqueous extract of cinnamon contains several bioactive compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and polyphenols, and exerts anticancer and anti‐inflammatory properties by altering key apoptotic and angiogenic factors. The whole extract is a better anticancer and anti‐inflammatory agent than the purified fractions, indicating a synergistic effect between various components. Studies have indicated that aqueous cinnamon extract has immense therapeutic potential, and to better understand its synergistic effects, extensive characterization of the aqueous extract and its potential to be used with other therapies should be explored.