bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bite hard: Linking cranial loading mechanics to ecological differences in gnawing behavior in caviomorph rodents
Authors: Becerra Federico , Buezas Guido Nicolás , Cisilino Adrián , Vassallo Aldo Iván
Published: August 2024

The mammalian skull is very malleable and has notably radiated into highly diverse morphologies, fulfilling a broad range of functional needs. Although gnawing is relatively common in mammals, this behavior and its associated morphology are diagnostic features for rodents. These animals possess a very versatile and highly mechanically advantageous masticatory apparatus, which, for instance, allowed caviomorph rodents to colonize South America during the Mid‐Eocene and successfully radiate in over 200 extant species throughout most continental niches. Previous work has shown that differences in bite force within caviomorphs could be better explained by changes in muscle development than in mechanical advantages (i.e., in cranial overall morphology). Considering the strong bites they apply, it is interesting to assess how the reaction forces upon the incisors (compression) and the powerful adductor musculature pulling (tension) mechanically affect the cranium, especially between species with different ecologies (e.g., chisel‐tooth digging). Thus, we ran finite element analyses upon crania of the subterranean Talas' tuco‐tuco Ctenomys talarum, the semi‐fossorial common degu Octodon degus, and the saxicolous long‐tailed chinchilla Chinchilla lanigera to simulate: (A) in vivo biting in all species, and (B) rescaled muscle forces in non‐ctenomyid rodents to match those of the tuco‐tuco. Results show that the stress patterns correlate with the mechanical demands of distinctive ecologies, on in vivo‐based simulations, with the subterranean tuco‐tuco being the most stressed species. In contrast, when standardizing all three species (rescaled models), non‐ctenomyid models exhibited a several‐fold increase in stress, in both magnitude and affected areas. Detailed observations evidenced that this increase in stress was higher in lateral sections of the snout and, mainly, the zygomatic arch; between approximately 2.5–3.5 times in the common degu and 4.0–5.0 times in the long‐tailed chinchilla. Yet, neither species, module, nor simulation condition presented load factor levels that would imply structural failure by strong, incidental biting. Our results let us conclude that caviomorphs have a high baseline for mechanical strength of the cranium because of the inheritance of a very robust “rodent” model, while interspecific differences are associated with particular masticatory habits and the concomitant level of development of the adductor musculature. Especially, the masseteric and zygomaticomandibular muscles contribute to >80% of the bite force, and therefore, their contraction is responsible for the highest strains upon their origin sites, that is, the zygomatic arch and the snout. Thus, the robust crania of the subterranean and highly aggressive tuco‐tucos allow them to withstand much stronger forces than degus or chinchillas, such as the ones produced by their hypertrophied jaw adductor muscles or imparted by the soil reaction.
Politicians' Hometown Favouritism and Capital Resource Allocation
Authors: Qiu Buhui , Tian Gary , Wu Yanling
Published: August 2024

Drawing on social identity theory, we investigate whether politicians exhibit hometown favouritism when allocating scarce capital resources, and we explore how the intensity of politicians' birthplace identity influences their tendency towards favouring hometown firms. Using the turnover of politicians responsible for the nationwide IPO approval process in China and the resulting ‘birthplace shock’ during the lengthy approval process for IPO applicant firms, we document the causal effect of politicians' hometown favouritism on capital resource allocation. Hometown firms are on average 15 percentage points more likely to receive IPO approval. This effect is stronger when politicians have a stronger sense of birthplace identity. Moreover, we show that hometown favouritism distorts capital resource allocation. Thus, our findings extend the existing non‐market strategy literature by incorporating a unique social identity perspective to elucidate the influence of powerful politicians on firm outcomes and the efficiency of societal capital resource allocation.
Dysregulated serum concentrations of fat‐soluble vitamins in dogs with chronic enteropathy
Authors: Serafini Federica , Maxwell Kristen M. , Zhu Xiaojuan , Lennon Elizabeth M.
Published: August 2024

Background

In inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) of humans, nutrient malabsorption can result in fat‐soluble vitamin deficiency, especially of vitamin D. In veterinary species, decreased concentrations of vitamin D are relatively common in dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE), but data on the status of other fat‐soluble vitamins (FSVs) is lacking.

Objectives

Determine the serum concentrations of retinol, vitamin D, and α‐tocopherol in dogs with CE compared with healthy dogs and compare clinical, clinicopathologic variables between CE and healthy dogs to detect associations with decreased FSVs concentrations.

Animals

Eighteen client‐owned dogs with CE and 33 healthy dogs.

Methods

Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), serum retinol and α‐tocopherol concentrations were compared between groups. Correlations and multiple regression modeling were used to examine the relationship between serum 25(OH)D, retinol, and α‐tocopherol concentrations and clinical and clinicopathological variables.

Results

Dogs with low serum albumin concentrations were more likely to have lower 25(OH)D concentrations than dogs with normal serum albumin concentration. Dogs with CE had higher serum concentrations of retinol, and variable α‐tocopherol concentrations. The cause of these dysregulated vitamin concentrations is unclear and requires further study.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Dogs with severe forms of CE should be monitored for decreased concentrations of 25(OH)D. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the clinical relevance and the possible benefit of vitamin D supplementation in these patients.
Persistence of maternal antibodies against goat pox virus in goat kids
Authors: Abdollahi Mostafa , Lotfi Mohsen , Lotfollahzadeh Samad , Dezfouli Mohammad Reza Mokhber , Adibi Maryam , Kamalzadeh Morteza , Firuzyar Sajjad
Published: August 2024

Background

In goat kids, choosing the appropriate age to administer the first dose of goat pox disease (GTP) vaccine requires knowing when maternal antibody decline concentrations.

Objective

Determine the persistence of maternal antibodies against goat pox virus (GTPV) in goat kids.

Animals

Twenty Saanen goat kids from birth to 120 days old.

Methods

In 2 groups, including: control (receiving colostrum from nonvaccinated does) and treatment (receiving colostrum from vaccinated does). On zero, 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56, 70, 100 and 120 days after the birth, virus neutralization test was used to measure the serum concentration of antibodies against GTPV.

Results

At the age of 56 days, the first seronegative goat kids (n = 2) were recorded in the treatment group. At the age of 120 days, all the goat kids in the treatment group were seronegative. The average virus neutralization index (VNI) of the goat kids became negative at the age of 100 to 120 days. All goat kids in the control group were negative at all times.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

One hundred to 120 days of the age seems to be the time to administer the first GTP vaccine in the goat kids with passive immunity against goat pox.
The importance of considering temporal intraspecific trait variation in Campos grasslands
Authors: Caram Nicolas , Casalás Felipe , Wallau Marcelo O. , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Soca Pablo , Cadenazzi Mónica , Boggiano Pablo
Published: August 2024

Aims

Changes in species composition and intraspecific trait variation are recognized as potential drivers of population and community temporal dynamics but their independent and overlapping effects have not been distinguished conclusively. Our goal was to quantify the relevance of temporal vs spatial changes in species composition and intraspecific trait variations when assessing community responses to seasonality, grazing pressure and above‐ground biomass gradients.

Location

Campos grassland in northeastern Uruguay.

Methods

Leaf dry matter content, specific leaf area, leaf width and tensile strength of dominant grass species were assessed across summer–autumn, winter, and spring seasons, under two grazing pressures. Species composition and above‐ground biomass were estimated in 20 × 20‐cm permanent quadrats within each season. Species trait variability was decomposed across space and time using hierarchical linear mixed models, while the spatio‐temporal community functional variation was decomposed into species turnover (abundance and/or species identity shifts) and intraspecific trait variation. Additionally, we explored the relevance of including or not including temporal intraspecific trait variation on community responses to seasonality, above‐ground biomass and grazing pressure using linear mixed models.

Results

Intraspecific trait variation explained 22.4%–66.5% of total trait variability, and it was generally more important across time than space, which accounted for 12.2%–57.7% of total variability. The within‐species trait variability was generally more important than species turnover in explaining the community spatio‐temporal functional variation. In general, seasonality more strongly caused intraspecific changes while the above‐ground biomass gradient caused species turnover. Functional community responses to grazing pressure, above‐ground biomass and seasonality were affected by considering or not considering intraspecific trait variation.

Conclusions

Trait variation within species across seasons is at least equally important as variation within species across space. Its influence in the functional changes of vegetation should not be considered only along environmental gradients but also through time.
Yellow rust infection of wheat: How the quantity of light received by wheat seedlings before inoculation affects infection efficiency
Authors: Zanella Camila M. , MacCormack Ruth , Caulfield John , Gordon Anna , Jones Huw , Hubbard Amelia , Boyd Lesley A.
Published: August 2024

Many factors are known to influence infection by cereal rusts, including environmental variables such at light, humidity and temperature, the topography of the leaf surface, as well as plant volatiles. However, few studies have aimed to link these factors. Previously, the quantity of light received by wheat seedlings prior to inoculation with Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) urediniospores was shown to influence yellow rust infection efficiency. In this study we show that germination and the ability of germlings (germinated urediniospores) to enter stomata is enhanced on wheat seedlings subjected to high quantities of light pre‐inoculation with Pst urediniospores, while on seedlings exposed to a long dark period germination and infection were compromised. Using headspace collections and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis thereof, we link this effect of high light quantity to quantitative changes in the profile of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). We show that the VOCs within headspace collections from wheat seedlings exposed to high quantities of light were able to support greater levels of Pst urediniospore germination than the headspace collections from wheat seedlings exposed to a period of dark. In vitro analysis of individual VOCs identified compounds that enhanced Pst urediniospore germination. These VOCs included the sesquiterpene caryophyllene, the monoterpene α‐pinene, the fatty acid α‐linolenic acid, the organic alcohols 1‐hexanol, 3‐hexen‐1‐ol and 5‐hexen‐1‐ol, the aldehyde cis‐3‐hexenal and the ester hexyl acetate.
CX43 and oxidative stress are the targets of BCB staining to predict the developmental potential of buffalo oocytes
Authors: Li MengQi , Yang ChunYan , Duan AnQin , Xiao Peng , Lu XingRong , Ma XiaoYa , Xu YuanYuan , Zheng Wei , Feng Chao , Mo Xia , Huang ChenQian , Huang LiQing , Shang JiangHua , Zheng HaiYing
Published: August 2024

This study used the brilliant cresyl blue (BCB) staining method to group buffalo oocytes (BCB+ and BCB−) and perform in vitro maturation, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture. At the same time, molecular biology techniques were used to detect gap junction protein expression and oxidative stress‐related indicators to explore the molecular mechanism of BCB staining to predict oocyte developmental potential. The techniques of buffalo oocytes to analyse their developmental potential and used immunofluorescence staining to detect the expression level of CX43 protein, DCFH‐DA probe staining to detect ROS levels and qPCR to detect the expression levels of the antioxidant‐related genes SOD2 and GPX1. Our results showed that the in vitro maturation rate, embryo cleavage rate and blastocyst rate of buffalo oocytes in the BCB+ group were significantly higher than those in the BCB− group and the control group (p < .05). The expression level of CX43 protein in the BCB+ group was higher than that in the BCB− group both before and after maturation (p < .05). The intensity of ROS in the BCB+ group was significantly lower than that in the BCB− group (p < .05), and the expression levels of the antioxidant‐related genes SOD2 and GPX1 in the BCB+ group were significantly higher than those in the BCB− group (p < .05). Brilliant cresyl blue staining could effectively predict the developmental potential of buffalo oocytes. The results of BCB staining were positively correlated with the expression of gap junction protein and antioxidant‐related genes and negatively correlated with the reactive oxygen species level, suggesting that the mechanism of BCB staining in predicting the developmental potential of buffalo oocytes might be closely related to antioxidant activity.
Theory of seed mix design with applications to ecological restoration
Authors: Rinella Matthew J. , James Jeremy J.
Published: August 2024

A major factor hindering ecological restoration is uncertainty about which plant species will best establish. We account for this uncertainty in the design of seed mixes, though our developments are relevant to other planting mixes (e.g. root stock). We view seed mixes as being comprised of one or more species groups (e.g. shrubs, grasses, and nitrogen fixers). We mathematically establish that chances of relatively low densities decline as a species group's seeding rate (e.g. 100 seeds/m2) is divided more evenly among more species. This decline is sharpest if survival probabilities vary widely among species. To determine how much survival probabilities typically vary, we studied grasses commonly seeded in Great Plains grasslands and Mediterranean annual grasslands in the western United States. Survival probabilities varied extensively, so the chances of low densities declined markedly with increasing seeded species numbers. In the Great Plains, the chances of establishment failures (0 plants/m2) were 50% when the seeding rate was allocated to one species versus 0% when the seeding rate was divided evenly among five or more species. Similarly, in Mediterranean annual grasslands, the chances of very low densities (≤1.0 plants/m2) declined from 24% when one species was seeded to 0% when three or more species were seeded. The seeding rate for each plant group should be divided as evenly as possible among as many species as practical. Compared to increasing seeding rates to provide greater densities, dividing fixed rates more evenly among more species could prove less expensive.
Efficacy of stromal vascular fraction in the treatment of scars: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Qiu Kaizhen , Gan Wenjun , Chen Xiaodong
Published: August 2024

Objective

Our aim was to assess the effectiveness of stromal vascular fraction (SVF) in treating scars using the latest meta‐analysis.

Methods

We used PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science to search the studies used to evaluate the efficacy of SVF in scar treatment. At least one of the following outcome measures were reported: vascularity, pigmentation, thickness, relief, pliability, surface area, pain, itching and color.

Results

A total of four eligible articles comprising 145 patients (64 SVF patients and 81 non‐SVF patients) were included. The findings of this meta‐analysis indicated that SVF had significant therapeutic effects in terms of vascularity (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐1.12, ‐0.02; p = 0.04), itching (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐0.61, ‐0.13; p = 0.002), POSAS (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐5.93, ‐1.47; p = 0.001), and thickness (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐1.04, ‐0.35; p < 0.001). In terms of OSAS (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐9.14, 0.59; p = 0.09), pigmentation (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐1.02, 0.06; p = 0.08), relief (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐1.14, 0.16; p = 0.14), surface area (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐0.91, 0.26; p = 0.27), PSAS (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐7.20, 0.49; p = 0.09), pain (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐0.87, 0.07; p = 0.10), pliability (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐0.57, 0.01; p = 0.06), and color (SMD/MD, 95% CI: ‐1.78, 0.48; p = 0.26), there were no significant statistical differences.

Conclusion

In view of the heterogeneity and potential selective bias, further large‐scale, prospective, and multicenter clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and reliability of SVF in the treatment of scars.
Artificial neural network small‐sample‐bias‐corrections of the AR(1) parameter close to unit root
Authors: Jiang Haozhe , Okhrin Ostap , Rockinger Michael
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces an artificial neural network (ANN) approach to estimate the autoregressive process AR(1) when the autocorrelation parameter is near one. Traditional ordinary least squares (OLS) estimators suffer from biases in small samples, necessitating various correction methods proposed in the literature. The ANN, trained on simulated data, outperforms these methods due to its nonlinear structure. Unlike competitors requiring simulations for bias corrections based on specific sample sizes, the ANN directly incorporates sample size as input, eliminating the need for repeated simulations. Stability tests involve exploring different ANN architectures and activation functions and robustness to varying distributions of the process innovations. Empirical applications on financial and industrial data highlight significant differences among methods, with ANN estimates suggesting lower persistence than other approaches.
Effectiveness of nurse‐led non‐pharmacological interventions on outcomes of delirium in adults: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Jiamin , Lu Yating , Chen Xiaohong , Wu Ying
Published: August 2024

Background

Delirium is a common complication among adults. It is essential to improve the outcomes of delirium.

Aim

To systematically synthesize the evidence on the effectiveness of the nurse‐led non‐pharmacological interventions on outcomes of delirium in adults.

Methods

Electronic databases including CINAHL, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Clinical Trial Registration were searched comprehensively by the authors. The authors reviewed the full text and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0. The meta‐analysis was performed using RevMan and Stata software. The forest plots showed the overall effect of the included study and the I2 test was used to assess the degree of heterogeneity between studies. Random effects models were used to analyze studies with significant heterogeneity.

Results

A total of 32 studies (10,122 participants) were included in the meta‐analysis. Nurse‐led non‐pharmacological interventions resulted in a significantly lower incidence of delirium compared with the usual care/control group (risk ratio = 0.74, p < .001) and reduced mortality in the hospital compared with usual care (risk ratio = 0.81, p = .04). However, the implementation of nurse‐led, non‐pharmacological interventions had no significant effect on the duration, severity of delirium, or length of hospital stay.

Linking Evidence to Action

Our findings suggest that the nurse‐led, non‐pharmacological strategy was effective in reducing the incidence of delirium and mortality in the hospital. Multicomponent interventions were the most effective strategy for reducing the incidence of delirium in adults.
Retos para los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje de la escritura académica en la Licenciatura en Lenguas Modernas (LLM) de la Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Bogotá
Authors: Ballén Vargas Stephania , Herrera González Andrés Felipe
Published: August 2024

La investigación se enmarca en los estudios de la alfabetización académica y los procesos de escritura en las disciplinas. El objetivo principal es identificar las concepciones en torno a la escritura a partir de las cuales la Licenciatura en Lenguas Modernas (LLM) brinda a sus estudiantes estrategias para escribir en un lenguaje académico a lo largo del currículo.
Para la base teórica, se hizo un barrido histórico de los estudios sobre escritura en la lingüística y se revisaron algunos aportes concernientes al concepto escritura académica. Los resultados evidencian una polisemia del término, lo cual sugiere una diversidad amplia de acercamientos metodológicos en las aulas.
Durante el proceso de investigación, surgió una discusión sobre las diferencias entre escritura en L1 —español— y L2—inglés y francés— y sobre la pertinencia de crear diálogos entre las distintas áreas del programa, para así establecer criterios claros de evaluación y retroalimentación de los textos. Finalmente, se concluyó que es necesario discutir sobre lo disciplinar en los estudios de lenguas porque, sin un campo de estudio delimitado y compartido, los procesos de escritura académica se verán obstaculizados.
Stochastic Modeling of Crack Growth and Maintenance Optimization for Metallic Components Subjected to Fatigue-Induced Failure
Authors: Zhang Xukai , Gulati Jasmine , Noshadravan Arash
Published: August 2024

The degradation of metallic systems under cyclic loading is subject to significant uncertainty, which affects the reliability of residual lifetime predictions and subsequent decisions on optimum maintenance schedules. This paper focuses two main challenges in developing a reliable framework for the lifecycle management of fatigue-critical components: constructing a stochastic model that captures uncertainties in crack growth histories, and presenting a computationally efficient strategy for solving the stochastic optimization associated with maintenance scheduling. Polynomial chaos (PC) representation is proposed to propagate uncertainty in the fatigue-induced crack growth process, using a database from constant amplitude loading experiments. Additionally, an optimization strategy is implemented based on Gaussian process surrogate modeling to solve the stochastic optimization problem under maximum probability of failure constraints. The sensitivity of the optimum solution to different probability of failure thresholds is examined. The proposed framework offers a decision support tool for informed decision-making under uncertainty, aiming to mitigate fatigue failure.
Experimental Method to Measure High-Temperature Hygroscopic Swelling in Epoxy Mold Compounds and Dielectric Build-Up Films
Authors: Chin Ian , Loh Wei Keat , Kee Seow Chien , He Yi , Abdullah Mohd. Zulkifly , Tsuriya Masahiro
Published: August 2024

In this study, high-temperature hygroscopic swelling characterization of different epoxy mold compounds (EMCs) and dielectric build-up films (DBFs) were analyzed using an experimental technique. The approach maintains specimens in a saturated state using a high-pressure enclosure, while digital image correlation (DIC) was used to measure in situ strain change in the specimen due to hygrothermal expansion. Hygroscopic swelling strain is obtained by removing the thermal strain component. This enables swelling characterization measurements above the temperature and humidity capability of typical commercial instruments. The results showed that moisture induced swelling is significant compared with thermal expansion and increases significantly with temperature above the glass transition temperature (Tg). EMCs were found to absorb more moisture and swell more compared to DBFs with comparable properties. The coefficient of hygroscopic swelling (CHS) for DBFs and EMCs was quite similarly low at low temperatures, but for EMCs, the CHS increased more at high temperatures. Results are compared against analytical solutions, other measurement methods, and published data.
Fluid Transient Analysis for Enhanced Performance of an Energy Recovery Device for a Small-Scale Reverse Osmosis Desalination Unit
Authors: Hassan Mohab A. , Wahba Essam M. , Adam Ihab G. , Swidan Mohamed A.
Published: August 2024

This article presents a comprehensive study of a double-acting cylinder (DAC) energy recovery device (ERD). The DAC was specifically designed, manufactured, and experimentally tested within a small-scale 5 m3/day brackish water reverse osmosis (RO) unit. The distinctive advantage of the DAC lies in its ability to operate without an extra booster pump, thereby reducing initial costs and streamlining system complexity. A comparative analysis was conducted between the station operating without any ERD and the station equipped with a DAC. For both scenarios, a parametric study was carried out to analyze the relationship between specific energy consumption (SEC) and recovery ratio at varying recovery percentages (10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%) for different salinity levels. This analysis was conducted across various feed flowrates, with the percentage reduction in SEC calculated for each case. The results show the DAC's ability to effectively reduce the SEC by up to 40%. Additionally, the study investigated brine-feed stream mixing within the DAC, highlighting its capability to prevent undesirable mixing despite internal leakage. However, its widespread adoption has been hindered by realizable pressure fluctuations associated with its implementation, which can lead to rapid fatigue failure. To address this issue, a direct-contact air vessel was integrated into the system to minimize pressure fluctuations and enhance the performance of the DAC. Its optimal size was determined through numerical analysis using the method of characteristics, with detailed design equations presented for future reference. The results affirm the indispensable function of the air vessel in attenuating unsteady effects.
Self-Reported Menstrual Health, Symptomatology, and Perceived Effects of the Menstrual Cycle for Elite Junior and Senior Football Players
Authors: Brown Georgia A. , Jones Mark , Cole Brandi , Shawdon Anik , Duffield Rob
Published: August 2024

Purpose: To describe the self-reported menstrual health, symptomatology, and perceived effects of the menstrual cycle on athletic performance for national and international Australian football (soccer) players. Methods: Players from national and domestic teams were invited to complete an online questionnaire regarding menstrual health, use of hormonal contraceptives (HCs), negative symptomatology, and perceived disruption of the menstrual cycle to performance. Descriptive statistics and binomial regressions with odds ratios (OR) were used to report the relationship of menstrual-related variables with perceived performance disruption. Results: A total of 199 players (20.9 [5.1] y) completed the questionnaire, with 18% of players reporting using HCs. One primary amenorrhea case was detected, and 26% of players reported menarche at age ≥15 years. For non-HC users, the prevalence of secondary amenorrhea was 2%, oligomenorrhea was 19%, and heavy menstrual bleeding was 11%. Ninety-seven percent of players reported experiencing physical or affective menstrual symptoms (5 [1.3] per player), and 40% of all players reported that menstrual symptoms impacted their ability to work, study, train, or compete. Furthermore, 40% of players perceived their training or performance to be disrupted by the menstrual cycle. Increasing number of menstrual symptoms (OR = 1.43; 95% CI, 1.28–1.62; P < .001), heavy menstrual bleeding (OR = 12.73; 95% CI, 3.4–82.8; P < .001), and pelvic pain (OR = 3.40; 95% CI, 1.7–7.2; P < .001) increased the likelihood of perceiving the menstrual cycle to disrupt performance. Conclusion: Heavy menstrual bleeding and HC use were low among this cohort of national and international footballers, whereas amenorrhea and oligomenorrhoea were comparable with other football populations. Nearly all players reported menstrual symptoms, and increased symptomatology was associated with greater perceived effects on performance.
Evaluating Step Counting Algorithms on Subsecond Wrist-Worn Accelerometry: A Comparison Using Publicly Available Data Sets
Authors: Koffman Lily , Muschelli John
Published: August 2024

Background: Walking-based metrics, including step count and total time walking, are easily interpretable measures of physical activity. Algorithms can estimate steps from accelerometry, which increasingly is measured with accelerometers located on the wrist. However, many existing step counting algorithms have not been validated in free-living settings, exhibit high error rates, or cannot be used without proprietary software. We compare the performance of several existing open-source step counting algorithms on three publicly available data sets, including one with free-living data. Methods: We applied five open-source algorithms: Adaptive Empirical Pattern Transformation, Oak, Step Detection Threshold, Verisense, and stepcount, and one proprietary algorithm (ActiLife) to three publicly available data sets with ground truth step counts: Clemson Ped-Eval, Movement Analysis in Real-World Environments Using Accelerometers, and OxWalk. We evaluate F1 score, precision, recall, mean absolute percent error (MAPE), and mean bias for each algorithm and setting. Results: The machine learning-based stepcount algorithm exhibited the highest F1 score (0.89 ± 0.11) and lowest MAPE (8.6 ± 9%) across all data sets and had the best, or comparable, F1 scores and MAPE in each individual data set. All algorithms performed worse with respect to both F1 score and MAPE in free-living compared with regular walking scenarios, and stepcount and Verisense were most sensitive to sampling frequency of input data. Conclusion: Machine learning-based algorithms, including stepcount, are a promising avenue for step counting. More free-living accelerometry data sets with ground truth step counts are needed for testing, validation, and continued refinement of algorithms.
Dependence of Rotator Cuff Muscle Thickness and Stiffness on Low-Level Contractions: Metrology of the Contraction Level Using Shear-Wave Imaging
Authors: Klich Sebastian , Kristiansen Mathias , Wang Hsing-Kuo , Kawczyński Adam , Larsen Ryan Godsk , Madeleine Pascal
Published: August 2024

Objective: The study aimed to investigate the effects of the level of contraction during isometric shoulder abduction at different abduction angles on muscle thickness and stiffness of the shoulder girdle in asymptomatic individuals. Design: Measurement properties study. Setting: Biomechanics and motion analysis lab. Participants: Twenty individuals volunteered to participate in this study. Main Outcome Measure: The subjects were tested for morphological and mechanical properties, expressed by thickness and stiffness of the supraspinatus tendon and muscle, and upper trapezius muscle. Moreover, acromiohumeral distance was also evaluated using B-mode ultrasound and shear-wave elastography. Intervention: The thickness and stiffness of the supraspinatus and upper trapezius muscle were assessed at 3 angles of abduction (0°, 60°, and 90°) and 3 levels of contraction (0%, 10%, and 20% of the maximal voluntary isometric contraction) using ultrasonography with shear-wave imaging. Moreover, the acromiohumeral distance was measured to establish the occupation ratio during passive movement. Results: The supraspinatus and upper trapezius muscle thickness and stiffness were significantly greater at 60° shoulder abduction compared with 0°, and 90° compared with 60°, as well as significantly greater at 20% maximal voluntary isometric contraction compared with 0% and 10% maximal voluntary isometric contraction. Thickness and stiffness were significantly greater in the supraspinatus compared with the upper trapezius muscle at all 3 angles of shoulder abduction for all 3 level of contractions. The acromiohumeral distance decreased significantly from 0° to 60° and from 60° to 90°. Conclusion: Morphological and mechanical properties of the supraspinatus and upper trapezius muscles depended on the relative level of muscle contraction and the angle of shoulder abduction.
Event-responsive scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Peters Jonathan J. P. , Reed Bryan W. , Jimbo Yu , Noguchi Kanako , Müller Karin H. , Porter Alexandra , Masiel Daniel J. , Jones Lewys
Published: August 2024

An ever-present limitation of transmission electron microscopy is the damage caused by high-energy electrons interacting with any sample. By reconsidering the fundamentals of imaging, we demonstrate an event-responsive approach to electron microscopy that delivers more information about the sample for a given beam current. Measuring the time to achieve an electron count threshold rather than waiting a predefined constant time improves the information obtained per electron. The microscope was made to respond to these events by blanking the beam, thus reducing the overall dose required. This approach automatically apportions dose to achieve a given signal-to-noise ratio in each pixel, eliminating excess dose that is associated with diminishing returns of information. We demonstrate the wide applicability of our approach to beam-sensitive materials by imaging biological tissue and zeolite.
Open for business
Authors: Brainard Jeffrey
Published: August 2024

Authors are increasingly paying to publish their papers open access. But is it fair or sustainable?
Genome sequences of three plastic-debris-inhabiting fungi isolated from New Zealand waste and recycling management plants
Authors: Palevich Nikola , Wu Shuyan , Li Yang , Palevich Faith P. , Maclean Paul H. , Singh Sidhu Jaspreet , Subharat Pornchanok , Jauregui Ruy , Müller Jana L. , Reilly Kerri , Mills John , Attwood Graeme T. , Brightwell Gale
Published: August 2024

Cladosporium
and
Epicoccum
are cosmopolitan fungi of the class Dothideomycetes with few cultured and genomic representatives. Here, we report draft reference genome sequences of
Epicoccum
sp. F181 (GenBank accession number
JAJSLS01
),
Cladosporium
sp. F165 (
JAJSLR01
), and F190 (
JAJSLT01
) isolated from recycling and waste management facilities in New Zealand.
NMDAR autoimmune encephalitis and fulminant relapse of multiple sclerosis: a rare overlap syndrome
Authors: Douglass Saxon , Field Deborah
Published: August 2024

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis is an autoimmune disease that has been rarely associated with AQP4-IgG and MOG-IgG demyelinating diseases, and even more rarely with multiple sclerosis. We present the case of a woman in her 40s with confirmed NMDAR encephalitis and coexistent fulminant relapse of multiple sclerosis treated with alemtuzumab 6 years prior, who had a favourable outcome following treatment with ocrelizumab. We proceed to systematic review of similar reported cases, finding a lower than anticipated prevalence of underlying malignancy compared with isolated NMDAR encephalitis, in this rare overlap syndrome.
Vitreoretinal surgical performance after acute alcohol consumption and hangover
Authors: Roizenblatt Marina , Gehlbach Peter Louis , Marin Vitor Dias Gomes Barrios , Roizenblatt Arnaldo , Fidalgo Thiago Marques , Saraiva Vinicius Silveira , Nakanami Mauricio Hiroshi , Noia Luciana Cruz , Watanabe Sung , Yasaki Erika Sayuri , Passos Renato Magalhães , Magalhães Junior Octaviano , Fernandes Rodrigo Antonio Brant , Stefanini Francisco Rosa , Caiado Rafael , Jiramongkolchai Kim , Farah Michel Eid , Belfort Junior Rubens , Maia Mauricio
Published: August 2024

Aim

Routine alcohol testing of practicing physicians remains controversial since there are no uniform guidelines or legal regulations in the medical field. Our aim was to quantitatively study the acute and next-morning effects of breath alcohol concentration (BAC)-adjusted alcohol intake on overall simulated surgical performance and microtremor among senior vitreoretinal surgeons.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 11 vitreoretinal surgeons (>10 years practice). Surgical performance was first assessed using the Eyesi surgical simulator following same-day alcohol consumption producing a BAC reading of 0.06%–0.10% (low-dose), followed by 0.11%–0.15% (high-dose). Dexterity was then evaluated after a ‘night out’ producing a high-dose BAC combined with a night’s sleep. Changes in the total score (0–700, worst-best) and tremor (0–100, best-worst) were measured.

Results

Surgeon performance declined after high-dose alcohol compared with low-dose alcohol (−8.60±10.77 vs −1.21±7.71, p=0.04, respectively). The performance during hangover was similar to low-dose alcohol (−1.76±14.47 vs −1.21±7.71, p=1.00, respectively). The performance during hangover tended to be better than after high-dose alcohol (−1.76±14.47 vs −8.60±10.77, p=0.09, respectively). Tremor increased during hangover compared with low-dose alcohol (7.33±21.65 vs −10.31±10.73, p=0.03, respectively). A trend toward greater tremor during hangover occurred compared with high-dose alcohol (7.33±21.65 vs −4.12±17.17, p=0.08, respectively).

Conclusion

Alcohol-related decline in simulated surgical dexterity among senior vitreoretinal surgeons was dose-dependent. Dexterity improved the following morning but remained comparable to after low-dose alcohol ingestion. Tremor increased during hangover compared with same-day intoxication. Further studies are needed to investigate extrapolations of these data to a real surgical environment regarding patient safety and surgeon performance.
Effectiveness of a physiotherapy self-management programme for adult patients with chronic non-specific low back pain in low- and middle-income countries: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Motha Sergant Given , Naidoo Niri , Moyo-Chilufya Maureen , Musekiwa Alfred , Kgarosi Kabelo , Mostert Karien
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) is among the most common musculoskeletal system conditions reported worldwide; however, few studies are available from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Self-management is a set of tasks performed by the patient aiming at managing their symptoms and interference in activities, mood and relationships due to pain. A physiotherapy-guided self-management programme (SMP) following a biopsychosocial approach has been reported as effective and affordable in the management of CNLBP in high-income countries. The objective of this systematic review is to determine the overall effectiveness of SMPs for adults with CNLBP in LMICs.

Methods and analysis

In this systematic review, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-Protocol (PRISMA-P) guidelines will be followed. A three-step search strategy will be used to search the electronic databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus, Scopus and CINAHL, Academic Search Complete and PEDro) for randomised controlled trials assessing the effectiveness of physiotherapy-guided self-management for CNLBP among adult participants in LMICs. The processes of screening search results for eligible studies, extracting data from included studies and appraising will be done independently by at least two review authors. Random effects meta-analysis will be used to synthesise results and heterogeneity will be assessed using the I2test statistic and χ2test.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics clearance was obtained for the broader PhD study on the development of a physiotherapy-guided SMP for adult people with CNLBP in Limpopo Province, South Africa. The results of the manuscript for this protocol will be published in peer-reviewed journals and also presented at conferences, symposia, and congresses.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023399572.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of postpartum depression and its associated factors among women before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda
Authors: Kabunga Amir , Tumwesigye Raymond , Kigongo Eustes , Musinguzi Marvin , Acup Walter , Auma Anna Grace
Published: August 2024

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to estimate the national prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) in Uganda and identify predictors in both pre-COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 eras.

Design

Used a systematic review and meta-analysis methodology.

Data sources

Reviewed papers were sourced from Medline/PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL/EBSCOhost, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and African Journals Online.

Eligibility criteria for selected studies

The review encompassed observational studies published on PPD in Uganda from 1 January 2000 to 30 November 2023.

Results

11 studies (involving 7564 participants) published from 1 January 2000 to 30 November 2023 were reviewed. The pooled prevalence of PPD in Uganda was 29% (95% CI 21% to 37%, I2=98.32%). Subgroup analysis indicated a similar prevalence before (29%, 95% CI 20% to 39%) and during (28%, 95% CI 22% to 32%) the COVID-19 period. Special groups exhibited a higher prevalence (32%, 95% CI 16% to 47%) than general postpartum women (28%, 95% CI 19% to 37%). Factors associated with PPD included poor social support (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.22, I2=96.8%), maternal illness (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.26, I2=96.9%), poor socioeconomic status (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.40 to 1.46, I2=99.5%) and undergoing caesarean section (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.17, I2=80.6%). Surprisingly, there was a marginal decrease in PPD during the COVID-19 period. Subgroup analysis highlighted a higher prevalence among mothers with HIV.

Conclusion

This study underscores the significant prevalence of PPD in Uganda, with sociodemographic factors increasing risk. Despite a slight decrease during the COVID-19 period, the importance of prioritising maternal mental health is emphasised, considering sociodemographic factors and pandemic challenges, to improve maternal and child health outcomes and overall well-being.
Nordic inflammatory bowel disease treatment strategy trial: protocol for the NORDTREAT randomised controlled biomarker-strategy trial
Authors: Rejler Martin , Füchtbauer Johannes David , Davíðsdóttir Lóa G , Fejrskov Anja , Söderholm Johan D , Christensen Robin , Andersen Vibeke , Repsilber Dirk , Kjeldsen Jens , Høivik Marte , Halfvarson Jonas
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The absence of reliable prognostic markers poses a challenge to the management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with aggressive disease may not receive sufficient treatment with conventional ‘step-up’ therapy, whereas a top-down approach may expose patients with indolent disease to unnecessary treatment-related toxicity. The objective of the Nordic IBD treatment strategy trial (NORDTREAT) is to assess the feasibility of personalised therapy by stratifying patients according to a prognostic serum protein signature at diagnosis.

Methods and analysis

NORDTREAT is a multicentre, biomarker-strategy design, open-label controlled trial. After screening consent, eligible patients are randomised (1:1) into one of two groups: a group with access to the protein signature and a group without access. In the access to protein signature group, patients displaying a protein signature suggestive of an increased risk of an aggressive disease course will be treated in line with a top-down treatment algorithm (anti-tumour necrosis factor agent with/without an immunomodulator). In contrast, those with a protein signature indicative of indolent disease will be excluded from the trial. Patients not in the access group receive treatment based on clinical management. This traditional management involves a stepwise escalation of treatment as determined by the investigator after failure of first-line treatment. After 52 weeks, outcomes are assessed in the subgroup of patients with a protein profile indicating a potentially severe disease trajectory. The primary endpoint is a composite of the proportion of patients with corticosteroid-free clinical and endoscopic remission at week 52. Surgical intervention due to IBD during follow-up will be defined as treatment failure.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained, and recruitment is underway at sites in four participating Nordic countries (Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden). Following trial completion and data analysis, the trial results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05180175; Pre-results. EudraCT number: 2019-002942-19.
Non-research payments to board-certified cardiologists from pharmaceutical industry in Japan from 2016 to 2019: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Murayama Anju , Higuchi Kenichi , Senoo Yuki
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the extent and trends of personal payments from pharmaceutical companies to cardiologists board-certified by the Japanese Circulation Society.

Design

A retrospective analysis study using data from a publicly available database.

Setting

The study focused on payments to cardiologists in Japan.

Participants

All 15 048 cardiologists who were board-certified by the Japanese Circulation Society as of 2021.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the extent of personal payments to cardiologists in 2016–19. Secondary outcomes included the analysis of trends in these payments over the same period.

Results

Of all 15 048 board-certified cardiologists, 9858 (65.5%) received personal payments totaling $112 934 503 entailing 165 013 transactions in 2016–19. The median payment per cardiologist was $2947 (IQR, $1022–$8787), with a mean of $11 456 (SD, $35 876). The Gini Index was 0.840, indicating a high concentration of payments to a small number of cardiologists. The top 1%, 5% and 10% of cardiologists received 31.6%, 59.4% and 73.5% of all payments, respectively. There were no significant trends in the number of cardiologists receiving payments or number of payments per cardiologist during the study period.

Conclusions

More than 65% of Japanese cardiologists received personal payments from pharmaceutical companies over the 4-year study period. Although the payment amount was relatively small for the majority of cardiologists, a small number of cardiologists received the vast majority of the payments.