bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing Trust in New Data Sources: Crowdsourcing Image Classification for Ecology
Authors: Santos‐Fernandez Edgar , Vercelloni Julie , Price Aiden , Heron Grace , Christensen Bryce , Peterson Erin E. , Mengersen Kerrie
Published: May 2023

Crowdsourcing methods facilitate the production of scientific information by non‐experts. This form of citizen science (CS) is becoming a key source of complementary data in many fields to inform data‐driven decisions and study challenging problems. However, concerns about the validity of these data often constrain their utility. In this paper, we focus on the use of citizen science data in addressing complex challenges in environmental conservation. We consider this issue from three perspectives. First, we present a literature scan of papers that have employed Bayesian models with citizen science in ecology. Second, we compare several popular majority vote algorithms and introduce a Bayesian item response model that estimates and accounts for participants' abilities after adjusting for the difficulty of the images they have classified. The model also enables participants to be clustered into groups based on ability. Third, we apply the model in a case study involving the classification of corals from underwater images from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. We show that the model achieved superior results in general and, for difficult tasks, a weighted consensus method that uses only groups of experts and experienced participants produced better performance measures. Moreover, we found that participants learn as they have more classification opportunities, which substantially increases their abilities over time. Overall, the paper demonstrates the feasibility of CS for answering complex and challenging ecological questions when these data are appropriately analysed. This serves as motivation for future work to increase the efficacy and trustworthiness of this emerging source of data.
Spatial and seasonal distribution of fish eggs and larvae in one free‐flowing river in the Neotropical savanna
Authors: Carnicer Cleide , Lima Luciano B. , Taguti Tátia Leika , Oliveira Fagner Junior M. , Lima‐Junior Dilermando Pereira
Published: May 2023

Reproduction is one of the most important biological aspects for the maintenance of viable populations, and understanding the spatial and seasonal patterns in the reproduction of Neotropical fish is a point that still needs considerable investigation. In this study, the main aim was to reduce knowledge gaps concerning fish eggs and larvae distribution patterns. Therefore, the River Araguaia basin, one of the main hydrographic basins of the Neotropical savanna, was used as the focal point of study. Samplings of fish eggs and larvae were carried across the hydrological regime during flooding and drought events between December 2018 and July 2020 at 15 sites distributed along a 350 km stretch of the River Araguaia basin. Fish eggs and larvae were found in all sampling sites, with the highest number of catches in the flood season. The fish larvae were represented by 5 orders, 22 families and 22 at the genus or species level. Both environments, tributary and main channel of the River Araguaia, are important for fish reproduction, and no difference was found in the use between the main channel and the tributaries. The results showed that spatial factors are important to explain the change in larval composition, which may have a wide or restricted distribution related to specific habitats. The main factors related to the reproductive activity of fish in this region are the physical and chemical changes in the water that occur in the flood season. These results indicate that the River Araguaia basin has environmental integrity and provides favourable conditions for the reproductive activity of fish, including long‐distance migratory species. Considering this, mitigate measures that guarantee the preservation of the natural flow are crucial for the maintenance of fish biodiversity.
The effect of protein provision and exercise therapy on patient‐reported and clinical outcomes in intensive care unit survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Barth Iris , Beumeler Lise F. E. , Nahar‐van Venrooij Lenny , van Dijk Olga , Buter Hanneke , Boerma E. Christiaan
Published: May 2023

Background

Intensive care unit (ICU) survivors deal with long‐term health problems, which negatively affect their quality of life (QoL). Nutritional and exercise intervention could prevent the decline of muscle mass and physical functioning which occurs during critical illness. Despite the growing amount of research, robust evidence is lacking.

Methods

For this systematic review, Embase, PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched. The effect of protein provision (PP) or combined protein and exercise therapy (CPE) during or after ICU admission on QoL, physical functioning, muscle health, protein/energy intake and mortality was assessed compared to standard care.

Results

Four thousand nine hundred and fifty‐seven records were identified. After screening, data were extracted for 15 articles (9 randomised controlled trials and 6 non‐randomised studies). Two studies reported improvements in muscle mass, of which one found higher independency in activities of daily living. No significant effect was found on QoL. Overall, protein targets were seldom met and often below recommendations.

Conclusion

Evidence for the effect of PP or CPE on patient‐reported outcomes in ICU survivors is limited due to study heterogeneity and lack of high‐quality studies. Future research and clinical practice should focus on adequate protein delivery with exercise interventions to improve long‐term outcomes.
ERF5 enhances protocorm‐like body regeneration via enhancement of STM expression in Dendrobium orchid
Authors: Zeng Danqi , Si Can , Zhang Mingze , Duan Jun , He Chunmei
Published: May 2023

Orchid plants develop protocorms upon germination and produce protocorm‐like structures called protocorm‐like bodies (PLBs) from protocorms and somatic cells via tissue culture. Protocorm‐like bodies have broad technical application potential in the orchid industry and their regeneration is a distinct developmental process in the plant kingdom. However, little is known about this unparalleled developmental program. In this study, we identified a PLB‐abundant gene, ethylene response factor (ERF), and a transcription factor named DoERF5, and determined its important role in PLB regeneration in Dendrobium orchid. Overexpression of DoERF5 in Dendrobium greatly enhanced the PLB regeneration from PLB and stem explants, and upregulated the expression of WOUND‐INDUCED DEDIFFERENTIATION (DoWIND) homologs and SHOOT MERISTEMLESS (DoSTM), as well as the genes involved in cytokinin biosynthesis (DoIPT) and the cytokinin response factors (DoARRs). However, silencing DoERF5 reduced the regeneration rate of PLBs, and downregulated the expression of DoWIND homologs, DoSTM and DoARRs. We demonstrated that DoERF5 is directly bound to the DoSTM promoter and regulates its expression. In addition, overexpression of DoSTM in Dendrobium orchid resulted in favorable regeneration of PLBs. Our results clarify that DoERF5 regulates the regeneration of PLB by enhancing DoSTM expression. Our findings provide new insights into how DoERF5 mediates PLB regeneration and offers technical potential in improving clonal propagation, preservation, and the bioengineering of orchids.
Pediatric palliative care utilization by decedent children: A nationwide population‐based study, 2002–2017
Authors: Wu Wei‐Wen , Lu Frank L. , Tang Chia‐Chun , Chao Fang‐Hsin , Yu Tsung‐Hsien
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aimed (1) to describe how trends in pediatric palliative care (PPC) utilization changed from 2002 to 2017, and (2) to examine factors predicting PPC utilization among decedent children in Taiwan.

Design

This retrospective, correlational study retrieved 2002–2017 data from three national claims databases in Taiwan.

Methods

Children aged 1 through 18 years who died between January 2002 and December 2017 were included. Pediatric palliative care utilization was defined as PPC enrollment and PPC duration, with enrollment described by frequency (n) and percentage (%) and duration described by mean and standard deviation (SD). Logistic regression was used to examine the associations of various demographic characteristics with PPC enrollment; generalized linear regression was used to examine associations of the demographic characteristics with PPC duration.

Findings

Across the 16‐year study period, PPC enrollment increased sharply (15.49 times), while PPC duration decreased smoothly (by 29.41%). Cause of death was a continuous predictor of both PPC enrollment and PPC duration. The children less likely to be enrolled in PPC services were those aged 1 to 6 years, boys, living in poverty, living in rural areas, and diagnosed with life‐threatening noncancer diseases.

Conclusion

This study used nationwide databases to investigate PPC enrollment and PPC duration among a large sample of deceased children from 2002 to 2017. The findings not only delineate trends and predictors of PPC enrollment and PPC duration but also highlight great progress in PPC as well as the areas still understudied and underserved. This information could help the pediatric healthcare system achieve the core value of family‐centered care for children with life‐threatening diseases and their families.

Clinical Relevance

Pediatric palliative care should be widely and continuously implemented in routine pediatric clinical practice to enhance quality of life for children and their families at the end of life.
Effectiveness of supplement ingredients on infertility treatment in advanced aged women
Authors: Kawamura Kazuhiro , Sato Yorino
Published: May 2023

Aim

Despite the remarkable progress made in reproductive medical technology in recent years, there has been no improvement in overall pregnancy and birth rates for the rising number of infertile patients. This is thought to be due to the increase in intractable infertility with ovarian dysfunction, as the desired age of pregnancy has increased for women. The aim of this article is to review preclinical studies that used laboratory animals and other tools to examine the effectiveness of diverse supplement ingredients on age‐related ovarian dysfunction as well as recent human clinical trials using supplement ingredients.

Method

We summarized the articles discussing the effectiveness of supplement ingredients on infertility treatment in advanced‐aged women by searching PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases until December 2022.

Results

Supplements are relatively inexpensive and convenient for patients, as they can be purchased at the will of the individual and from among multiple options. Although supplements have been demonstrated to have certain effects in animal studies, evidence of their effectiveness in humans is either lacking or insufficient for reaching a definite conclusion. This may be due to the lack of standardized diagnostic criteria for ovarian dysfunction and poor responders, unclear optimal dosages and duration of supplement intake, and well‐designed randomized clinical trials.

Conclusion

Additional lines of evidence on the effectiveness of supplements in patients with ovarian dysfunction at an older age need to be accumulated in the future.
Dating and friendships in adolescence: Variation across same‐sex and other‐sex romantic partners
Authors: Wesche Rose , Kreager Derek A. , Ramirez Nayan G. , Gupta Shivangi
Published: May 2023

This research examined associations between dating and number of friends for rural adolescents with same‐sex and other‐sex dating partners using longitudinal sociometric data (N = 2826; 55% female, 87% White, mean age = 14 at baseline). In multilevel models assessing within‐person change, boys gained female friends when they were in same‐sex romantic relationships, compared to when they were single. In contrast, girls in same‐sex relationships lost female friends and gained male friends. Adolescents in other‐sex romantic relationships gained same‐sex friends compared to when they were single. Results advance understanding of adolescent social and sexual development, suggesting that sexual minority adolescents find allies when dating but may struggle to maintain same‐sex friendships.
Genomic characterization of recombinant cucumber mosaic virus isolates infecting mustard species via HTS in India
Authors: Singhal Pankhuri , Prajapati Malyaj R. , Diksha Damini , Baranwal Virendra Kumar , Singh Jitender
Published: May 2023

One of the most pervasive plant viruses, the cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Bromoviridae: Cucumovirus, infects a variety of plants worldwide and significantly affects production quality and quantity. Viral infection exhibiting severe mosaic and stunting symptoms in plants infected with turnip mosaic virus was observed in experimental fields in IARI. Leaf samples were collected and the virome was identified through high‐throughput sequencing subjecting ribosomal RNA‐depleted mRNA. Here, we unravel for the first time the complete genome sequences of two CMV isolates infecting yellow and black‐seeded mustard in India. The three segments of the viral genome, as well as coat protein cds, were amplified and subjected to Sanger sequencing. The three viral genomic components were 3348 of RNA1, 3032 and 3040 of RNA2, 2260 and 2236 nts of RNA 3, respectively (including the 5′ and 3′ UTR). The two isolates shared high sequence identity and clubbed with the subgroup‐IB isolates in a clade. Recombination signals were detected within all the three RNAs of both New Delhi isolates wherein one of the parent isolates was reported to infect the family Brassicaceae. Recombination was observed throughout the region of RNA2 but the 3′ UTR was observed to be most prone to recombination. This is the first comprehensive depiction of a recombinant CMV subgroup IB isolate from black, yellow and brown‐seeded mustard from India, which has implications for its robust detection and overall management. This study also provides insight into population structuring, host expansions, level of genetic heterogeneity and variability of worldwide prevalent CMV isolates.
The Sociological Spirituality of W. E. B. Du Bois's Prayers for Dark People
Authors: Hughey Matthew
Published: May 2023

Scholarship on W. E. B. Du Bois's understanding of religion is in the midst of a renaissance. Yet, few engage Du Bois's Prayers for Dark People, written over 1909–10 at Atlanta University. As a remedy, I first provide historical context on the production and reception of Prayers. I then delve into the content of Prayers, identifying the tenets of a Du Boisian “sociological spirituality” brought to bear on the study and navigation of “race” and the “color‐line.” Through four strategies, Du Bois blended sociological empiricism and theorization with appeals to spirituality in the form of moral realism, stoicism, hypostasis, and metaphysics: (1) a critical deism that conserves belief in sacred divinity; (2) pedagogical racial uplift strategies that help resolve theodicies; (3) symbolic interactionism that sanctifies the Black self, and; (4) a sociology of knowledge based on otherworldly dimensions. I conclude that Du Bois's Prayers serves as a liturgy for Black liberation. Prayers emphasizes a transgressive rhetoric that exceeds the confines of social theory through a sacralization of sociological knowledge as a prophetic anticipation of moral Black lifeworlds.
Beliefs About Poverty and Inequality: Du Bois and Ethnic Differences Among Catholics
Authors: Keister Lisa A.
Published: May 2023

Poverty is among the most challenging social problems in the United States today, and beliefs about the government's role in reducing inequality and raising living standards for the poor are critical to alleviating poverty and its consequences. Du Bois recognized the complex challenges associated with poverty and was ahead of his time in pointing to ethnicity and religion as fundamental to creating change and alleviating poverty. Du Bois’ ideas continue to be relevant today, including for understanding ethnic differences among Catholics in attitudes toward poverty, which are likely changing given the growth of the Latino population. In the spirit of Du Bois’ seminal research, I compare Latino and non‐Latino Catholic attitudes toward poverty and inequality using the 2021 General Social Survey. Findings document critical differences among Catholics in beliefs about poverty and inequality and highlight the interdependent role of religion, ethnicity, and demographics (e.g., age, gender, socioeconomic status [SES]) in shaping attitudes.
Human self‐domestication and the evolution of prosody
Authors: Benítez‐Burraco Antonio , Elvira‐García Wendy
Published: May 2023

Human self‐domestication refers to a new evolutionary hypothesis about human origins. According to this view, humans have experienced changes that are similar to those observed in domesticated mammals and that have provided us with many of the behavioural, and perhaps cognitive pre‐requisites for supporting our complex social practices and advanced culture. At the core of this hypothesis is the claim that self‐domestication is triggered by (and entails) a reduction in reactive aggression responses. The human self‐domestication hypothesis has been recently used to explain how grammars became more sophisticated via a cultural mechanism. Nonetheless, less research has been done in the domain of phonology, even though animal evidence suggests that domestication favours call complexity too. In this paper, we hypothesise about the effects of our increased self‐domestication on human prosody. We argue for a progressive complexification of prosody that parallels (and might be involved in a positive feed‐back loop with) the complexification of grammar in response to a reduction in reactive aggression. We build on evidence of diverse nature, from language typology to brain function to language acquisition studies.
To what extent does the general public endorse language myths?
Authors: Wagner Laura , Awani Sumurye , Patson Nikole D. , Stanhope Rebekah
Published: May 2023

This paper reports on an investigation of adults' level of endorsement of 18 language myths, including myths about non‐mainstream dialects of English, children's language development, bilingualism, linguistic diversity across the world, the use of English in the language arts, and the job of a linguist. Participants (N = 187) read short vignettes of situations related to each misconception and were asked to justify their assessment of the situation. Responses were coded according to whether they endorsed the myth within the situation. Results showed that endorsement of language myths was highly dependent on the specific myth. Some myths were strongly endorsed (e.g. myths related to linguistic prejudice and children's language development), others were strongly rejected (e.g. myths related to the harmful nature of bilingualism), and others received a mixed pattern of endorsement and rejection. We discuss how this snapshot of public understanding can help linguists target their efforts at public education.
Incomplete reproductive barriers and genomic differentiation impact the spread of resistance mutations between green‐ and red‐colour morphs of a cosmopolitan mite pest
Authors: Xue Wen‐Xin , Sun Jing‐Tao , Witters Johan , Vandenhole Marilou , Dermauw Wannes , Bajda Sabina A. , Simma Eba A. , Wybouw Nicky , Villacis‐Perez Ernesto , Van Leeuwen Thomas
Published: May 2023

Pesticide resistance represents a clear and trackable case of adaptive evolution with a strong societal impact. Understanding the factors associated with the evolution and spread of resistance is imperative to develop sustainable crop management strategies. The two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae, a major crop pest with worldwide distribution and a polyphagous lifestyle, has evolved resistance to most classes of pesticides. Tetranychus urticae exists as either a green‐ or a red‐coloured morph. However, the extent of genetic divergence and reproductive compatibility vary across populations of these colour morphs, complicating their taxonomic resolution at the species level. Here, we studied patterns of genetic differentiation and barriers to gene flow within and between morphs of T. urticae in order to understand the factors that influence the spread of resistance mutations across its populations. We derived multiple iso‐female lines from Tetranychus populations collected from agricultural crops. We generated genomic and morphological data, characterized their bacterial communities and performed controlled crosses. Despite morphological similarities, we found large genomic differentiation between the morphs. This pattern was reflected in the incomplete, but strong postzygotic incompatibility in crosses between colour morphs, while crosses within morphs from different geographical locations were largely compatible. In addition, our results suggest recent/on‐going gene flow between green‐coloured T. urticae and T. turkestani. By screening the sequences of 10 resistance genes, we found evidence for multiple independent origins and for single evolutionary origins of target‐site resistance mutations. Our results indicate that target‐site mutations mostly evolve independently in populations on different geographical locations, and that these mutations can spread due to incomplete barriers to gene flow within and between populations.
The decoupled evolution of the organellar genomes of Silene nutans leads to distinct roles in the speciation process
Authors: Postel Zoé , Sloan Daniel B. , Gallina Sophie , Godé Cécile , Schmitt Eric , Mangenot Sophie , Drouard Laurence , Varré Jean‐Stéphane , Touzet Pascal
Published: May 2023

There is growing evidence that cytonuclear incompatibilities (i.e. disruption of cytonuclear coadaptation) might contribute to the speciation process. In a former study, we described the possible involvement of plastid–nuclear incompatibilities in the reproductive isolation between four lineages of Silene nutans (Caryophyllaceae). Because organellar genomes are usually cotransmitted, we assessed whether the mitochondrial genome could also be involved in the speciation process, knowing that the gynodioecious breeding system of S. nutans is expected to impact the evolutionary dynamics of this genome.

Using hybrid capture and high‐throughput DNA sequencing, we analyzed diversity patterns in the genic content of the organellar genomes in the four S. nutans lineages.

Contrary to the plastid genome, which exhibited a large number of fixed substitutions between lineages, extensive sharing of polymorphisms between lineages was found in the mitochondrial genome. In addition, numerous recombination‐like events were detected in the mitochondrial genome, loosening the linkage disequilibrium between the organellar genomes and leading to decoupled evolution.

These results suggest that gynodioecy shaped mitochondrial diversity through balancing selection, maintaining ancestral polymorphism and, thus, limiting the involvement of the mitochondrial genome in evolution of hybrid inviability between S. nutans lineages.
Impact of public exhibition on the perception of birthmarks
Authors: Zolkwer Morgan B. , Whitehouse Jodi , Sanderson Saskia C. , Kinsler Veronica A.
Published: May 2023

Background

The importance of photographs in social media, the steep rise in popularity of tattoos, and the prominence of individuals with visibly different skin in fashion are likely to be changing the landscape of self‐ and public perception of birthmarks. Study objectives were to assess the impact of a photoshoot and public exhibition on the self‐perception of individuals with extensive birthmarks, and to explore the viewing public's reactions.

Methods

Thirty individuals with congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) were recruited internationally. Each had a professional photoshoot portrait with their skin exposed, resulting in a public exhibition in London entitled “How do you C Me Now?” Participants/parents completed pre‐ and post‐questionnaires relating to self‐perception and the impact of their birthmarks on behavior. Over 8000 members of the public viewed the exhibition, 464 completing an on‐site questionnaire on its effects.

Results

All participants/parents rated the experience as positive, valuable and helpful. Scores on self‐appreciation and self‐confidence were significantly higher after the photo shoot. Members of the general public overwhelmingly reported the exhibition increased their positive feelings towards people with birthmarks. The majority of public respondents also reported that the exhibition made them feel better about their own skin and about their looks in general.

Conclusion

This unique exhibition and the associated research has provided a striking new perspective on potential psychological interventions for individuals with birthmarks.
Physiology and management of the peri‐parturient sow in the context of changing production conditions
Authors: Langendijk P. L. , Soede N. M.
Published: May 2023

Genetic selection has resulted in a considerable increase in litter size, paralleled by an increase in farrowing duration and perinatal mortality. This paper describes some of the physiological changes around farrowing, and how genetic trends and sow management interact with these. Compromised farrowing can be related to nutritional management, or to housing conditions and handling of periparturient sows. Transition diets, for example, can be formulated to support calcium homeostasis and alleviate constipation. The opportunity to express natural behaviours and minimize stress around farrowing can further optimize farrowing conditions and reduce piglet mortality. Loose farrowing systems are part of the answer to the challenges around farrowing; however, current systems do not perform consistently. In conclusion, increased farrowing duration and increased perinatal mortality may to some extent be inevitably related to trends in pig production; however, they can be improved by nutritional measures, housing conditions and farrowing management.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Studies in Media and Communication, Vol. 11, No. 4
Authors: Johnson Patricia
Published: May 2023

Studies in Media and Communication (SMC) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether SMC publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 11, Number 4Amie Jones, University of Georgia, USAAnita Šulentić, Edward Bernays University College, CroatiaAntonio García Gómez, University of Alcalá de Henares, SpainBernard Naledzani Rasila, University of Venda, South AfricaCaitlin McLaughlin, St. Francis Xavier University, CanadaCamelia Cmeciu, Danubius University of Galati, RomaniaCarmen Pérez-Sabater, Universitat Politècnica de València, SpainDaniel Moise, Bucharest University, RomaniaDonggyu Kim, University of Southern California, USAElena Bandres-Goldaraz, Universtiy of Zaragoza, SpainEric Mensah, University of Cape Coast, GhanaFrans Sayogie, Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, IndonesiaFred Fang, South China Normal University, ChinaGiorgio Poletti, University of Ferrara, ItalyHerman, Universitas HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar, IndonesiaJarlene Rodrigues Reis, Cefet/RJ, BrazilJavier Serrano Puche, University of Navarra, SpainJianbo Hou, Xi'an International Studies University, ChinaLucia Zbihlejová, University of Presov, SlovakiaMasduki Masduki, Universitas Islam Indonesia, IndonesiaMiguel Álvarez-Peralta, University Rey Juan Carlos, SpainMohammad Zamroni, Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University, IndonesiaNavid Darvishzadeh, Georgia State University, USANingyang Chen, Soochow University, ChinaPadilla-Castillo Graciela, Complutense University of Madrid, SpainPatrick Neil M. Santiago, Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology, PhilippinesPeggy Peattie, University of San Diego, USARafael Angel Salazar Martínez, University of Holguin-Mayari Municipality Center, CubaRafiza Luziani Varão Ribeiro Carvalho, University of Brasilia, BrazilSarah Min, Dalton State College, USASeverin Mbog, University of Douala, CameroonSixto-García José, University of Santiago de Compostela, SpainTeresa Martín García, University of Salamanca, SpainThaïs de Mendonça Jorge, University of Brasilia, BrazilTilahun Adamu Mengistie, University of Gondar, EthiopiaVerlumun Celestine Gever, University of Nigeria, NigeriaXiao Li, Hubei Institute of Fine Arts, ChinaXin Wang, North China Institute of Science and Technology, ChinaYi Luo, Montclair State University, USAYoung Joon Lim, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USAYufan Sunny Qin, James Madison University, USA Patricia JohnsonEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Studies in Media and CommunicationRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://smc.redfame.com
Room-Temperature Single-Step Production of Ultrafine-Grained Bulk Metallic Sheets From Al Powder
Authors: Pariyar Abhishek , Vu Viet Q. , Kailas Satish V. , Toth Laszlo S.
Published: May 2023

Obtaining fully dense products with high strength in one step at room temperature by powder metallurgy (PM) is generally not possible. However, doing so would reduce manufacturing and energy costs substantially. In this work, we have attempted to achieve this on commercially pure aluminum by utilizing the friction-assisted lateral extrusion process (FALEP), which has the capability of producing sheets from bulk or powder metal in a single step, by applying large shear strain. The texture, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the fully compacted powder sample were examined and compared to the bulk sheet’s properties obtained also by FALEP. The powder-FALEP sample showed a smaller grain size and significantly higher strength. Simulations carried out by the Taylor-type lattice curvature-based polycrystal model shed light on the texture characteristics of the obtained materials and were in good agreement with the experiments.
Ponatinib Represses Latent HIV-1 by Inhibiting AKT-mTOR
Authors: Huang Ting , Cai Jinfeng , Wang Peipei , Zhou Jiasheng , Zhang Haitao , Wu Ziqi , Zhao Jiacong , Huang Zhanlian , Deng Kai
Published: May 2023

Although antiretroviral therapy (ART) is effective in suppressing viral replication, it does not cure HIV-1 infection due to the presence of the viral latent reservoir. Rather than reactivating the latent viruses, the “block and lock” strategy aims to shift the viral reservoir to a deeper state of transcriptional silencing, thus preventing viral rebound after ART interruption.
African Swine Fever Virus Gene B117L Encodes a Small Protein Endowed with Low-pH-Dependent Membrane Permeabilizing Activity
Authors: Gladue Douglas P. , Gomez-Lucas Lidia , Largo Eneko , Velazquez-Salinas Lauro , Ramirez-Medina Elizabeth , Torralba Johana , Queralt Maria , Alcaraz Antonio , Nieva Jose L. , Borca Manuel V.
Published: May 2023

ASFV is responsible for an extensively distributed pandemic causing important economic losses in the pork industry in Eurasia. The development of countermeasures is partially limited by the insufficient knowledge regarding the function of the majority of the more than 150 genes present on the virus genome.
Reptarenavirus S Segment RNA Levels Correlate with the Presence of Inclusion Bodies and the Number of L Segments in Snakes with Reptarenavirus Infection—Lessons Learned from a Large Breeding Colony
Authors: Thiele Tanja , Baggio Francesca , Prähauser Barbara , Ruiz Subira Andres , Michalopoulou Eleni , Kipar Anja , Hetzel Udo , Hepojoki Jussi
Published: May 2023

Boid inclusion body disease (BIBD) is caused by reptarenavirus infection, and while reptarenavirus nucleoprotein is the main component of the inclusion bodies (IBs) characteristic of BIBD, not all reptarenavirus-infected snakes demonstrate IBs in their cells. Identification of infected individuals is critical for controlling the spread of the disease; however, the genetic divergence of reptarenaviruses complicates reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR)-based diagnostics.
Determinants of non-attendance at face-to-face and telemedicine ophthalmic consultations
Authors: Wagner Siegfried K , Raja Laxmi , Cortina-Borja Mario , Huemer Josef , Struyven Robbert , Keane Pearse A , Balaskas Konstantinos , Sim Dawn A , Thomas Peter B M , Rahi Jugnoo S , Solebo Ameenat Lola , Kang Swan
Published: May 2023

Background/aims

Evaluation of telemedicine care models has highlighted its potential for exacerbating healthcare inequalities. This study seeks to identify and characterise factors associated with non-attendance across face-to-face and telemedicine outpatient appointments.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study at a tertiary-level ophthalmic institution in the UK, between 1 January 2019 and 31 October 2021. Logistic regression modelled non-attendance against sociodemographic, clinical and operational exposure variables for all new patient registrations across five delivery modes: asynchronous, synchronous telephone, synchronous audiovisual and face to face prior to the pandemic and face to face during the pandemic.

Results

A total of 85 924 patients (median age 55 years, 54.4% female) were newly registered. Non-attendance differed significantly by delivery mode: (9.0% face to face prepandemic, 10.5% face to face during the pandemic, 11.7% asynchronous and 7.8%, synchronous during pandemic). Male sex, greater levels of deprivation, a previously cancelled appointment and not self-reporting ethnicity were strongly associated with non-attendance across all delivery modes. Individuals identifying as black ethnicity had worse attendance in synchronous audiovisual clinics (adjusted OR 4.24, 95% CI 1.59 to 11.28) but not asynchronous. Those not self-reporting their ethnicity were from more deprived backgrounds, had worse broadband access and had significantly higher non-attendance across all modes (all p<0.001).

Conclusion

Persistent non-attendance among underserved populations attending telemedicine appointments highlights the challenge digital transformation faces for reducing healthcare inequalities. Implementation of new programmes should be accompanied by investigation into the differential health outcomes of vulnerable populations.
Endoscopic mucosal resection using cold snare versus hot snare in treatment for 10–19 mm non-pedunculated colorectal polyps: protocol of a non-inferiority randomised controlled study
Authors: Jiang Qingwei , Yan Xiaxiao , Wang Duan , Zhang Shengyu , Zhang Yuelun , Feng Yunlu , Yang Aiming , Wu Dong
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Cold polypectomy has the advantages of simple operation, less time-consuming and fewer complications. Guidelines have recommended cold snare polypectomy (CSP) to resect small polyps sized ≤5 mm and sessile polyps sized 6–9 mm. However, evidence is scarce regarding cold resection for non-pedunculated polyps sized ≥10 mm. Cold snare endoscopic mucosal resection (CS-EMR) combining CSP and submucosal injection was designed to improve the complete resection rate and reduce adverse events. We hypothesise that CS-EMR is non-inferior to conventional hot snare endoscopic mucosal resection (HS-EMR) in the resection of 10–19 mm non-pedunculated colorectal polyps.

Methods and analysis

This study is a prospective, randomised, open-label, non-inferiority, single-centre trial. Outpatients scheduled to undergo a colonoscopy and present eligible polyps will be randomised to receive either CS-EMR or HS-EMR. The primary endpoint is the complete resection. Considering that HS-EMR of 10–19 mm colorectal polyps will yield a complete resection rate of at least 92% and a non-inferiority margin of −10%, a total of 232 polyps will be included (one-sided α, 2.5%; β, 20%). The analyses are intended to evaluate first non-inferiority (lower limit 95% CI greater than −10% for group difference) and then superiority (lower limit 95% CI>0%) if non-inferiority is achieved. Secondary endpoints include en-bloc resection, the occurrence of adverse events, the use of endoscopic clips, resection time and cost.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the institutional review board of the Peking Union Medical College Hospital (No. K2203). All participants in the trial will provide written informed consent. The results of this trial will be published in an open-access way.

Trial registration number

NCT05545787.
Critical illness myopathy and trajectory of recovery in acute kidney injury requiring continuous renal replacement therapy: a prospective observational trial protocol
Authors: Teixeira J Pedro , Griffin Benjamin R , Pal Chaitanya Anil , González-Seguel Felipe , Jenkins Nathanial , Jones Beth M , Yoshida Yuri , George Naomi , Israel Hayley Puffer , Ghazi Lama , Neyra Javier A , Mayer Kirby P
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Acute kidney injury requiring renal replacement therapy (AKI-RRT) is common in the intensive care unit (ICU) and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Continuous RRT (CRRT) non-selectively removes large amounts of amino acids from plasma, lowering serum amino acid concentrations and potentially depleting total-body amino acid stores. Therefore, the morbidity and mortality associated with AKI-RRT may be partly mediated through accelerated skeletal muscle atrophy and resulting muscle weakness. However, the impact of AKI-RRT on skeletal muscle mass and function during and following critical illness remains unknown. We hypothesise that patients with AKI-RRT have higher degrees of acute muscle loss than patients without AKI-RRT and that AKI-RRT survivors are less likely to recover muscle mass and function when compared with other ICU survivors.

Methods and analysis

This protocol describes a prospective, multicentre, observational trial assessing skeletal muscle size, quality and function in ICU patients with AKI-RRT. We will perform musculoskeletal ultrasound to longitudinally evaluate rectus femoris size and quality at baseline (within 48 hours of CRRT initiation), day 3, day 7 or at ICU discharge, at hospital discharge, and 1–3 months postdischarge. Additional skeletal muscle and physical function tests will be performed at hospital discharge and postdischarge follow-up. We will analyse the effect of AKI-RRT by comparing the findings in enrolled subjects to historical controls of critically ill patients without AKI-RRT using multivariable modelling.

Ethics and dissemination

We anticipate our study will reveal that AKI-RRT is associated with greater degrees of muscle loss and dysfunction along with impaired postdischarge recovery of physical function. These findings could impact the in-hospital and postdischarge treatment plan for these patients to include focused attention on muscle strength and function. We intend to disseminate findings to participants, healthcare professionals, the public and other relevant groups via conference presentation and publication without any publication restrictions.

Trial registration number

NCT05287204.
Implementation of barcode medication administration (BMCA) technology on infusion pumps in the operating rooms
Authors: Hogerwaard Manon , Stolk Muriël , Dijk Liselotte van , Faasse Mariët , Kalden Nico , Hoeks Sanne Elisabeth , Bal Roland , Horst Maarten ter
Published: May 2023

Background

Medication administration errors (MAEs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. An updated barcode medication administration (BCMA) technology on infusion pumps is implemented in the operating rooms to automate double check at a syringe exchange.

Objective

The aim of this mixed-methods before-and-after study is to understand the medication administrating process and assess the compliance with double check before and after implementation.

Methods

Reported MAEs from 2019 to October 2021 were analysed and categorised to the three moments of medication administration: (1) bolus induction, (2) infusion pump start-up and (3) changing an empty syringe. Interviews were conducted to understand the medication administration process with functional resonance analysis method (FRAM). Double check was observed in the operating rooms before and after implementation. MAEs up to December 2022 were used for a run chart.

Results

Analysis of MAEs showed that 70.9% occurred when changing an empty syringe. 90.0% of MAEs were deemed to be preventable with the use of the new BCMA technology. The FRAM model showed the extent of variation to double check by coworker or BCMA.

Observations showed that the double check for pump start-up changed from 70.2% to 78.7% postimplementation (p=0.41). The BCMA double check contribution for pump start-up increased from 15.3% to 45.8% (p=0.0013). The double check for changing an empty syringe increased from 14.3% to 85.0% (p<0.0001) postimplementation. BCMA technology was new for changing an empty syringe and was used in 63.5% of administrations. MAEs for moments 2 and 3 were significantly reduced (p=0.0075) after implementation in the operating rooms and ICU.

Conclusion

An updated BCMA technology contributes to a higher double check compliance and MAE reduction, especially when changing an empty syringe. BCMA technology has the potential to decrease MAEs if adherence is high enough.
Responsibility and decision-making authority in using clinical decision support systems: an empirical-ethical exploration of German prospective professionals’ preferences and concerns
Authors: Funer Florian , Liedtke Wenke , Tinnemeyer Sara , Klausen Andrea Diana , Schneider Diana , Zacharias Helena U , Langanke Martin , Salloch Sabine
Published: May 2023

Machine learning-driven clinical decision support systems (ML-CDSSs) seem impressively promising for future routine and emergency care. However, reflection on their clinical implementation reveals a wide array of ethical challenges. The preferences, concerns and expectations of professional stakeholders remain largely unexplored. Empirical research, however, may help to clarify the conceptual debate and its aspects in terms of their relevance for clinical practice. This study explores, from an ethical point of view, future healthcare professionals’ attitudes to potential changes of responsibility and decision-making authority when using ML-CDSS. Twenty-seven semistructured interviews were conducted with German medical students and nursing trainees. The data were analysed based on qualitative content analysis according to Kuckartz. Interviewees’ reflections are presented under three themes the interviewees describe as closely related: (self-)attribution of responsibility, decision-making authority and need of (professional) experience. The results illustrate the conceptual interconnectedness of professional responsibility and its structural and epistemic preconditions to be able to fulfil clinicians’ responsibility in a meaningful manner. The study also sheds light on the four relata of responsibility understood as a relational concept. The article closes with concrete suggestions for the ethically sound clinical implementation of ML-CDSS.
Appraising the causal role of smoking in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhu Jiahao , Zhou Dan , Yu Min , Li Yingjun
Published: May 2023

Smoking has been considered a risk factor for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in observational studies. To assess whether smoking plays a causal role in IPF, we performed a Mendelian randomization study using genetic association data of 10 382 cases with IPF and 968 080 controls. We found that genetic predisposition to smoking initiation (based on 378 variants) and lifetime smoking (based on 126 variants) were associated with a higher risk of IPF. Our study suggests a potential causal effect of smoking on increasing IPF risk from a genetic perspective.
Endotyping, phenotyping and personalised therapy in obstructive sleep apnoea: are we there yet?
Authors: Turnbull Chris D , Stradling John R
Published: May 2023

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) was traditionally thought to be mainly caused by obesity and upper airway crowding, and hence OSA management was not personalised according to particular characteristics, with most symptomatic patients receiving continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Recent advances in our understanding have identified additional potential and distinct causes of OSA (endotypes), and subgroups of patients (phenotypes) with increased risk of cardiovascular complications. In this review, we discuss the evidence to date as to whether there are distinct clinically useful endotypes and phenotypes of OSA, and the challenges to the field in moving towards delivering personalised therapy in OSA.
Cumulative effects of biomass harvesting and herbicide application on litter-dwelling arthropod communities in jack pine-dominated forests: 7th year postharvest assessment
Authors: Work Timothy T. , Morris Dave M. , Loboda S. , Klimaszewski J. , Wainio-Keizer K. , Venier Lisa
Published: May 2023

Forest biomass harvest has the potential to provide feedstocks for energy production to offset fossil fuel consumption. However, concerns have been raised regarding the ecological sustainability of removing additional biomass from forests, in particular the impacts on biodiversity. In this paper, we used a suite of ground-dwelling arthropod taxa (ground beetles, spiders, and rove beetles) to measure community compositional changes along a gradient of biomass removal treatments 7 years postharvest, and compared against reference. Based on multivariate regression trees, changes in species composition reflected the intensity gradient of the biomass removal treatments or stand attributes associated with the level of forest floor disturbance across all arthropod groups. For each arthropod group, changes in composition were defined primarily by reductions or loss of abundant forest associated species and increases in the number and abundance of species associated with more xeric conditions and increased disturbance intensity. There were no differences between full-tree and tree-length treatments. Overall, results indicated a strong arthropod response to the removal of overstory, forest floor disturbance, and reductions in understory cover mostly resulting from the glyphosate applications. Arthropod recovery would benefit from overstory retention, reduction in forest floor disturbance, and judicious use of glyphosate.
Neutrino decoherence from generalised uncertainty
Authors: Banerjee Indra Kumar , Dey Ujjal Kumar
Published: May 2023

Quantum gravity models predict a minimal measurable length which gives rise to a modification in the uncertainty principle. One of the simplest manifestations of these generalised uncertainty principles is the linear quadratic generalised uncertainty principle which leads to a modified Heisenberg algebra. This can alter the usual von-Neumann evolution of density matrix to a Lindblad-type equation. We show how this can give rise to a decoherence in neutrino propagation in vacuum. The decoherence effects due to the linear quadratic generalised uncertainty principle are extremely minimal and is unlikely to be detectable in the existing or upcoming experimental facilities for any of the natural sources of neutrinos. We also show that, in principle, there can be other variants of generalised uncertainty principle which predicts verifiable decoherence effects for the cosmic neutrino background.