bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A regularization‐based deep unsupervised model for affine multimodal co‐registration
Authors: Boveiri Hamid Reza , Khayami Raouf , Javidan Reza , Mehdizadeh Alireza , Abbasi Samaneh
Published: July 2022

Extensive network receptive field is key for unsupervised affine registration because instead of deformable registration that takes care of local subtleties, the affine registration is global so that the last layers need to see big patches of the organ‐in‐interest. To extend the network's receptive field, we need to go for deeper networks, which causes producing complex models. On the other hand, affine transformation is restricted by its low degree‐of‐freedom (DoF) where larger models increasingly develop the hazard of overfitting. To worsen the situation, the regularizer module cannot be applied to the affine transformation with such a restricted DoF. In this paper, we propose a differentiable computational layer to convert the affine transformation outputted by the network to its corresponding dense displacement field. Such an affine‐to‐field layer enables us to apply different regularization terms on the outputted transformation in order to avoid the overfitting phenomenon while deepening the network. The proposed approach was evaluated on an annotated hard multimodal dataset containing 1109 pairs of CT/MR images of the brain with different heterogeneity for example, variety in scanners, setups and resolutions. Based on the results, the proposed customized layer is fully successful to handle the overfitting for deeper networks that are able to produce richer transformations than the shallower networks from different evaluation metrics for example, in target registration error the proposed network with seven layers has a 13.3% (or 9.1 mm) improvement in performance. The implementation of the proposed customized affine‐to‐field layer in the Python, Keras package with the Tensorflow backend can be publically accessed via https://github.com/boveiri/Deep-coReg.
Dopaminergic inhibition of human neutrophils is exerted through D1‐like receptors and affected by bacterial infection
Authors: Marino Franca , Pinoli Monica , Rasini Emanuela , Martini Stefano , Luini Alessandra , Pulze Laura , Dalla Gasperina Daniela , Grossi Paolo , Legnaro Massimiliano , Ferrari Marco , Congiu Terenzio , Pacheco Rodrigo , Osorio‐Barrios Francisco , de Eguileor Magda , Cosentino Marco
Published: July 2022

Dopamine (DA) affects immune functions in healthy subjects (HS) and during disease by acting on D1‐like (D1 and D5) and D2‐like (D2, D3 and D4) dopaminergic receptors (DR); however, its effects on human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) are still poorly defined. We investigated DR expression in human PMN and the ability of DA to affect cell migration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Experiments were performed on cells from HS and from patients (Pts) with bacterial infections as well, during the acute phase and after recovery. Some experiments were also performed in mice knockout (KO) for the DRD5 gene. PMN from HS express both D1‐like and D2‐like DR, and exposure to DA results in inhibition of activation‐induced morphological changes, migration and ROS production which depend on the activation of D1‐like DR. In agreement with these findings, DA inhibited migration of PMN obtained from wild‐type mice, but not from DRD5KO mice. In Pts with bacterial infections, during the febrile phase D1‐like DRD5 on PMN were downregulated and DA failed to affect PMN migration. Both D1‐like DRD5 expression and DA‐induced inhibition of PMN migration were however restored after recovery. Dopaminergic inhibition of human PMN is a novel mechanism which is likely to play a key role in the regulation of innate immunity. Evidence obtained in Pts with bacterial infections provides novel clues for the therapeutic modulation of PMN during infectious disease.
The prevalence and risk factors of facial pressure injuries related to adult non‐invasive ventilation equipment: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wei Yuting , Pei Juhong , Yang Qiuxia , Zhang Hongyan , Cui Yutong , Guo Jiali , Guo Xiaojing , Ma Yuxia , Han Lin
Published: July 2022

To systematically assess the prevalence of facial pressure injuries related to adult non‐invasive ventilation equipment, and risk factors of facial pressure injuries. PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database, Wanfang Database, Chinese Biomedical Database and Weipu Database were comprehensively searched for observational studies investigating the prevalence and risk factors of facial pressure injuries related to adult non‐invasive ventilation equipment from inception to May 16th, 2022. Filter articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The quality of the included studies was evaluated independently by two investigators. Meta‐analysis was conducted using Stata 16.0 software package. In total, 2835 articles were screened and data from 12 studies were used in meta‐analysis. The prevalence of facial pressure injuries related to adult non‐invasive ventilation equipment was 25% (95% confidence interval, CI:15% to 37%, I2 = 97.34%, P < 0.0001). After controlling for confounding variables, the following risk factors of facial pressure injuries: use equipment form, with diabetes, fever, cumulative time of using equipment, facial skin oedema and Glasgow score. Understanding the risk factors of facial pressure injuries can provide the healthcare personnel with the theoretical basis for the management and treatment of the patients.
‘More together than apart’: The evaluation of a virtual course to improve mental health and well‐being of adults with intellectual disabilities during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: St. John Laura , Volpe Tiziana , Jiwa Muhammad Irfan , Durbin Anna , Safar Yousef , Formuli Fatima , Thakur Anupam , Lake Johanna , Lunsky Yona
Published: July 2022

Background

To address the growing concerns over poor mental health experienced by adults with intellectual disabilities due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, a national virtual mental health course was delivered and evaluated.

Methods

This mixed methods study utilized both qualitative and quantitative assessments. Participants were 27 adults with intellectual disabilities who participated in the 6‐week course. Participants completed measures of self‐efficacy and well‐being at three time points and qualitative satisfaction measures at post and follow‐up.

Results

Attendance was high and the course was feasible and acceptable to participants. Positive changes related to mental health self‐efficacy were detected (p = .01), though mental well‐being did not improve.

Conclusion

The study provided evidence for the feasibility and value of the course for this population. Future research should examine how virtual courses could support the population in terms of pandemic recovery and how courses may work for individuals who are less independent.
Combination radiofrequency microneedling and carbon dioxide laser for acne scarring: A systematic review and retrospective case series across two centers
Authors: Mandavia Rishi , Cariati Massimiliano , Shahidi Sepideh , Spencer Cheka , Somenek Michael , Lapa Tatiana
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Combination radiofrequency (RF) microneedling with fractional ablative carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is a new approach for acne scar treatment. Aims: (1) to systematically review the literature on the safety and effectiveness of this treatment for acne scarring; (2) to assess safety and effectiveness in a 2‐center case series.

Methods

Systematic review: Articles that assessed the safety and effectiveness of combination RF microneedling and fractional CO2 laser for acne scarring were included and quality assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Case series: Patient records were reviewed from 2 clinics, one in London, UK, and the other in Washington D.C., United States, to identify patients who underwent a single treatment with RF microneedling and fractional CO2 laser for acne scarring. Outcome assessment was via the Scar Global Assessment (SGA) scale.

Results

Systematic review: Three articles were included and reported improvements in acne scar severity. Adverse effects included erythema, edema, pain, vesicle formation, erosion, petechiae, desquamation, post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), and acne flare. Quality scores ranged from 14 to 15 (maximum of 21). Case series: Twenty‐six patients were included. Mean SGA Score was 3.0 at baseline and 1.3 at follow‐up. All patients had an improved SGA score. Adverse effects included erythema, pain, edema, skin crusting, PIH, and acne flare. All patients resumed normal activities within 7 days of treatment.

Conclusion

Combination RF microneedling and fractional CO2 laser appears a safe and effective treatment for patients with acne scarring. A single treatment can result in noticeable improvements in acne scar severity with a short recovery time.
Semaphorin 3A protects against alveolar bone loss during orthodontic tooth movement in mice with periodontitis
Authors: Satomi Kazuki , Nishimura Kazuaki , Igarashi Kaoru
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study investigated the effect of local semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) administration on alveolar bone loss during OTM in a mouse model of periodontitis.

Background

Orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) for patients with periodontal disease is known to increase the risk of exacerbating alveolar bone loss due to inflammation of the periodontal tissue. However, its mechanism of action and prevention remains unclear.

Methods

Mice (male 7–8 weeks old, C57BL/6J, n = 12) were divided into six groups: untreated group (control), without OTM and recovered from induced periodontitis (RP), with OTM and administered PBS or Sema3A to the gingiva after induced periodontitis (VehPO, SemaPO), with OTM and administered PBS or Sema3A to the gingiva without periodontitis induction (VehNO, SemaNO). Samples were collected on 14 days, and bone loss, histological analysis, cytokine production level, and tooth movement were assessed. Cultured human periodontal ligament (hPDL) cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and compressive force (CF), and mRNA expression levels of Sema3A and its receptors were analyzed.

Results

The bone loss was significantly lower in the SemaPO group than in the VehPO group. The number of TRAP‐positive cells in the SemaPO group was significantly lower than that in the VehPO group and was at the same level as that in the control group. The receptor activator of nuclear factor (NF)‐kB‐ligand/osteoprotegerin (RANKL/OPG) ratio and the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐17, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and interferon (IFN)‐γ, in the gingival tissues were significantly lower in the SemaPO group than in the VehPO group. Additionally, Sema3A mRNA expression in hPDL cells was significantly decreased by co‐stimulation with LPS and CF compared with that in the control group. Finally, the distance moved (dist.) and the mesial tipping angle (θ) was significantly smaller in the SemaPO group than in the VehPO group and was not significantly different from that of VehNO.

Conclusion

Pathological alveolar bone loss exacerbated by OTM in periodontitis might be prevented by local administration of Sema3A without inhibiting OTM.
Dive characteristics of Cross Seamount beaked whales from long‐term passive acoustic monitoring at the Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauaʻi
Authors: Manzano‐Roth Roanne , Henderson E. Elizabeth , Alongi Gabriela C. , Martin Cameron R. , Martin Stephen W. , Matsuyama Brian
Published: July 2022

Beaked whale foraging pulses were detected on the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) off Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi, via long term passive acoustic monitoring. The unidentified pulses do not match foraging pulses of known species on the range but are similar to the unidentified beaked whale first detected at Cross Seamount, Hawaiʻi. Although there has not been a visual confirmation of the unidentified beaked whale species, analysis of data collected from 2007 to 2019 has identified beaked whale foraging dive characteristics from echolocation pulses. From the 13 years of data, the most distinct patterns were that all foraging dives occurred at night and the nighttime foraging dive rate was 0.11 group vocal periods (GVP) per hour, with most detections on shallow hydrophones (625–1,000 m deep) over steep bathymetric slopes. Data collected during U.S. Navy training events were used to compare dive behavior during mid‐frequency active sonar (MFAS) activity against baseline periods; it was determined that the whales reduced GVPs during sonar and these remained low for at least 3 days after the training events. These results are the first long‐term record of acoustic signals from the Cross Seamount beaked whale and provide important insights into their habitat use and occurrence patterns.
Genotypic diversity and antifungal susceptibility of Scedosporium species from clinical settings in China
Authors: Chen Min , Zhu Xinlin , Cong Yang , Chen Hulin , Hou Qing , Hong Nan , Chen Xinchun , Lei Wenzhi , Cai Jie , Lu Xiuhai , Shuai Lihua , Li Xinhua , Deng Shuwen , Xu Jianping , Liao Wanqing , Pan Weihua , Xu Heping , de Hoog Sybren
Published: July 2022

Background

Scedosporium species have drawn significant interest as inhabitants of polluted soil and water and as cause of high mortality in near‐drowning patients. So far, most cases have been reported from Europe and Australia, while knowledge on their prevalence and genotypic diversity from Asia is scant.

Objectives

To increase the knowledge of the genetic diversity and in vitro antifungal susceptibility of Scedosporium species involved in human infections from China.

Methods

Here, we applied the ISHAM‐MLST consensus scheme for molecular typing of Scedosporium species and revealed both high species diversity and high genotypic diversity among 45 Chinese clinical Scedosporium isolates.

Results

Among the five species, Scedosporium boydii (n = 22) was the most common, followed by S. apiospermum (n = 18), S. aurantiacum (n = 4) and S. dehoogii (n = 1). S. aurantiacum was reported for the first time from clinical samples in China. The predominant sequence types (STs) were ST17 in S. apiospermum, ST4 in S. boydii and ST92 in S. aurantiacum, including four novel STs (ST40, ST41, ST42 and ST43) in S. apiospermum. Based on the CLSI‐M38 A2 criterion, voriconazole was the only antifungal compound with low MIC values (MIC90 ≤ 1 μg/ml) for all Scedosporium isolates in our study.

Conclusions

The genetic diversity of clinical isolates of Scedosporium species from China is extremely high, with S. boydii being predominant and S. aurantiacum being firstly reported here. VOR was the only antifungal compound with low MIC values for all Scedosporium isolates in our study, which should be recommended as the firstline antifungal treatment against scedosporiosis in China.
The innovation of the symbiosome has enhanced the evolutionary stability of nitrogen fixation in legumes
Authors: de Faria Sergio M. , Ringelberg Jens J. , Gross Eduardo , Koenen Erik J. M. , Cardoso Domingos , Ametsitsi George K. D. , Akomatey John , Maluk Marta , Tak Nisha , Gehlot Hukam S. , Wright Kathryn M. , Teaumroong Neung , Songwattana Pongpan , de Lima Haroldo C. , Prin Yves , Zartman Charles E. , Sprent Janet I. , Ardley Julie , Hughes Colin E. , James Euan K.
Published: July 2022

Nitrogen‐fixing symbiosis is globally important in ecosystem functioning and agriculture, yet the evolutionary history of nodulation remains the focus of considerable debate. Recent evidence suggesting a single origin of nodulation followed by massive parallel evolutionary losses raises questions about why a few lineages in the N2‐fixing clade retained nodulation and diversified as stable nodulators, while most did not. Within legumes, nodulation is restricted to the two most diverse subfamilies, Papilionoideae and Caesalpinioideae, which show stable retention of nodulation across their core clades.

We characterize two nodule anatomy types across 128 species in 56 of the 152 genera of the legume subfamily Caesalpinioideae: fixation thread nodules (FTs), where nitrogen‐fixing bacteroids are retained within the apoplast in modified infection threads, and symbiosomes, where rhizobia are symplastically internalized in the host cell cytoplasm within membrane‐bound symbiosomes (SYMs).

Using a robust phylogenomic tree based on 997 genes from 147 Caesalpinioideae genera, we show that losses of nodulation are more prevalent in lineages with FTs than those with SYMs.

We propose that evolution of the symbiosome allows for a more intimate and enduring symbiosis through tighter compartmentalization of their rhizobial microsymbionts, resulting in greater evolutionary stability of nodulation across this species‐rich pantropical legume clade.
Use of health care utilization as a metric of intervention success may perpetuate racial disparities: An outcome evaluation of a homeless transitional care program
Authors: Nohria Raman , Biederman Donna J , Sloane Richard , Thibault Alyson
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study explored race‐based differences in disease burden, health care utilization, and mortality for Black and White persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) who were referred to a transitional care program, and health care utilization and program outcomes for program participants.

Design

This was a quantitative program evaluation.

Sample

Black and White PEH referred to a transitional care program (n = 450). We also analyzed data from the subgroup of program participants (N = 122). Of the 450 referrals, 122 participants enrolled in the program.

Measures

We included chronic disease burden, mental illness, substance use, health care utilization, and mortality rates for all PEH referred. For program participants, we added 6‐month pre/post health care utilization and program outcomes. All results were dichotomized by race.

Results

Black PEH who were referred to the program had higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, and HIV and similar post‐referral mortality rates compared to White PEH. Black and White PEH exhibited similar program outcomes; however, Black PEH revisited the emergency department (ED) less frequently than White PEH at 30 and 90 days after participating in the program.

Conclusions

Health care utilization may be a misleading indicator of medical complexity and morbidity among Black PEH. Interventions that rely on health care utilization as an outcome measure may unintentionally contribute to racial disparities.
Public funding constrains effective postfire emergency restoration in Portugal
Authors: Lopes Luís F. , Fernandes Paulo M. , Rego Francisco C. , Acácio Vanda
Published: July 2022

In the last decades, fire regimes in Europe have changed toward an increased occurrence of extreme fire events with large burned areas and associated impacts. Portugal is one of the countries most affected by wildfires, with extraordinary negative impacts. Postfire emergency stabilization is an important restoration practice to mitigate fire impacts in the short term. The present study aims to improve understanding of how public funding processes affect the efficiency of postfire emergency stabilization in Portugal. We analyzed the process of public funding for postfire emergency stabilization in 2009–2018 using data from public reports assessing the needs for interventions (147), open calls resulting from those reports (12), and implementation projects subsidized by the calls (517). Our results show that available funding through calls for postfire emergency stabilization responded to the needs assessed by previous reports, but there was no available funding (reports and calls) for many (37%) of the large burned areas (>1,000 ha) in 2009–2018. Furthermore, the effectiveness of public funding for postfire emergency stabilization in Portugal is limited by the financial model, lack of eligibility of relevant treatments, the constant change of calls criteria, and slow decision‐making and execution that exceeds the optimal timeframe. As a consequence, implementation of postfire emergency stabilization within an optimal timeframe is halted by insufficient financial capacity of private beneficiaries. We discuss effective funding mechanisms from other countries and suggest improvements for the funding process in Portugal.
Policy coherence versus regulatory governance. Electricity reforms in Algeria and Morocco
Authors: Mathieu Emmanuelle
Published: July 2022

The diffusion of independent regulatory agencies (IRAs) in utilities sectors in developing countries is underpinned by the idea that IRAs are highly effective institutional devices to signal policy credibility to private investors. But is it really so? Institutional economists tend to confirm the effectiveness of IRAs, while also highlighting the many factors that condition its positive impact on investments. Acknowledging the importance of interaction effects, this paper proposes to shift the level of analysis, moving away from IRAs to look at the overall complementarity between policy objectives, instruments, and the wider political context. In sum, it argues that IRAs are, as such, irrelevant. What matters instead is policy coherence. A comparison between two case studies on electricity policy reforms in Algeria and Morocco lends credit to the policy coherence approach. It shows that policy incoherence may deprive IRAs from any impact on sectoral evolution and that there are effective alternatives to IRA to signal policy credibility and attract investors. The paper concludes by suggesting practitioners to relax the focus on preconceived policy solutions, to be open to alternative policy approaches and to focus on helping developing countries designing coherent policies.
Permian parallelisms: Reanalysis of †Tshekardocoleidae sheds light on the earliest evolution of the Coleoptera
Authors: Boudinot Brendon Elias , Yan Evgeny Viktorovich , Prokop Jakub , Luo Xiao‐Zhu , Beutel Rolf Georg
Published: July 2022

The Coleoptera provides an excellent example of the value of fossils for understanding the evolutionary patterns of recent lineages. We reevaluate the morphology of the Early Permian †Tshekardocoleidae to test alternative phylogenetic hypotheses relating to the Palaeozoic evolution of the order. We discuss prior interpretations and revise an earlier data matrix. Both Bayesian and parsimony analyses support the monophyly of Coleoptera excluding †Tshekardocoleidae (= Mesocoleoptera), and of Coleoptera excluding †Tshekardocoleidae and †Permocupedidae (= Metacoleoptera). Plesiomorphies preserved in †Tshekardocoleidae are elytra, which rest over the body in a loose tent‐like manner, with flat lateral flanges, projecting beyond the abdominal apex, and abdomens that are flexible and nearly cylindrical. Apomorphies of Mesocoleoptera include shortening of the elytra and a closer fit with the flattened and probably more rigid abdomen. A crucial synapomorphy of Metacoleoptera is the tightly sealed subelytral space, which may have been advantageous during the Permian aridification. Taxon exclusion experiments show that †Tshekardocoleidae is crucial for understanding the early evolution of Coleoptera and that its omission strongly affects ancestral state polarities as well as topology, including crown‐group taxa. By constraining the relationships of extant taxa to match those supported by phylogenomic analysis, we demonstrate that features shared by Archostemata with Permian stem groups are most reasonably supported as plesiomorphic and that the smooth and simplified body forms of Polyphaga, Adephaga, Myxophaga, and Micromalthidae were derived in parallel. Our study highlights the reciprocal illumination of molecular, morphological, and paleontological data, and paves the way for tip‐dating analysis across the order.
Seeing the unseen: a trifoliate (MYB117) mutant allele fortifies folate and carotenoids in tomato fruits
Authors: Tyagi Kamal , Sunkum Anusha , Rai Meenakshi , Yadav Amita , Sircar Sanchari , Sreelakshmi Yellamaraju , Sharma Rameshwar
Published: July 2022

In tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), mutations in the gene encoding the R2R3‐MYB117 transcription factor elicit trifoliate leaves and initiate the formation of axillary meristems; however, their effects on fruit ripening remain unexplored. The fruits of a new trifoliate (tf) mutant (tf‐5) were firmer and had higher °Brix values and higher folate and carotenoid contents. The transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome profiling of tf‐5 reflected a broad‐spectrum change in cellular homeostasis. The tf‐5 allele enhanced the fruit firmness by suppressing cell wall softening‐related proteins. tf‐5 fruit displayed a substantial increase in amino acids, particularly γ‐aminobutyric acid, with a parallel reduction in aminoacyl‐tRNA synthases. The increased lipoxygenase protein and transcript levels seemingly elevated jasmonic acid levels. In addition, increased abscisic acid hydrolase transcript levels coupled with reduced precursor supply lowered abscisic acid levels. The upregulation of carotenoids was mediated by modulation of methylerythreitol and plastoquinone pathways and increased the levels of carotenoid isomerization proteins. The upregulation of folate in tf‐5 was connoted by the increase in the precursor p‐aminobenzoic acid and transcript levels of several folate biosynthesis genes. The reduction in pterin‐6‐carboxylate levels and γ‐glutamyl hydrolase activity indicated that reduced folate degradation in tf‐5 increased folate levels. Our study delineates that in addition to leaf development, MYB117 also influences fruit metabolism. The tf‐5 allele can be used to increase γ‐aminobutyric acid, carotenoid, and folate levels in tomato.
Cold‐stored platelet function is not significantly altered by agitation or manual mixing
Authors: Shea Susan M. , Spinella Philip C. , Thomas Kimberly A.
Published: July 2022

Background

Cold storage of platelets (CS‐PLT), results in better maintained hemostatic function compared to room‐temperature stored platelets (RT‐PLT), leading to increased interest and use of CS‐PLT for actively bleeding patients. However, questions remain on best storage practices for CS‐PLT, as agitation of CS‐PLT is optional per the United States Food and Drug Administration. CS‐PLT storage and handling protocols needed to be determined prior to upcoming clinical trials, and blood banking standard operating procedures need to be updated accordingly for the release of units due to potentially modified aggregate morphology without agitation.

Study Design and Methods

We visually assessed aggregate formation, then measured surface receptor expression (GPVI, CD42b (GPIbα), CD49 (GPIa/ITGA2), CD41/61 (ITGA2B/ITGB3; GPIIB/GPIIIA; PACI), CD62P, CD63, HLAI), thrombin generation, aggregation (collagen, adenosine diphosphate [ADP], and epinephrine activation), and viscoelastic function (ExTEM, FibTEM) in CS‐PLT (Trima collection, 100% plasma) stored for 21 days either with or without agitation (Phase 1, n = 10 donor‐paired units) and then without agitation with or without daily manual mixing to minimize aggregate formation and reduce potential effects of sedimentation (Phase 2, n = 10 donor‐paired units).

Results

Agitation resulted in macroaggregate formation, whereas no agitation caused film‐like sediment. We found no substantial differences in CS‐PLT function between storage conditions, as surface receptor expression, thrombin generation, aggregation, and clot formation were relatively similar between intra‐Phase storage conditions.

Discussion

Storage duration and not condition impacted phenotype and function. CS‐PLT can be stored with or without agitation, and with or without daily mixing and standard metrics of hemostatic function will not be significantly altered.
Evaluation of a Rural Organ Donation Campaign Designed to Improve Health Promotion among Young Adults
Authors: Britt Rebecca K
Published: July 2022

A health communication campaign to promote organ donation was conducted in partnership with Donate Life America at a rural university campus. Materials included posters, flyers, and postcards, along with personal contact. Participants included university students located at a rural university campus in a survey in a pre-post intervention during National Donate Life Month. Data from research about the campaign included the target audience who completed surveys prior to and after the campaign about attitude and intent towards donation. Likewise, after pre-post intervention of the campaign, reported rates for donor registration increased, and findings indicate that registration rates in this rural university campus are similar to baseline rates in other regions. Based on the population, additional health communication strategies should address disparate groups develop appropriately tailored interventions. Local community health campaigns may be effective in promoting donor registration and increasing communication and beneficial outcomes surrounding organ donation.
Political Power Shift in the House of Representative of North Sumatra Province, Indonesia: A Political Communication of Post-election
Authors: Amin Muryanto , Humaizi Humaizi , Rahmadani Suci , Yusuf Muhammad
Published: July 2022

The results of the 2013 regional head election (Pilkada) in the context of the executive and 2014 legislative elections at the level of North Sumatra Province produced new leadership accompanied by a coalition posture of supporting parties. In the context of the legislative institution, it also resulted in changes in votes or seats. Normatively, in the context of executive-legislative relations, it will be more effective if a coalition of executive-supporting parties gets a majority in the legislature since it will facilitate political communication that is involved in the discussion of a regional regulation draft. This study attempts to depict the political power shift in the regional house of representatives of North Sumatra province (RHRNSP), Indonesia. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach with a content analysis technique. The data were obtained through the documentation method. The results showed that there were obstacles from several factions outside the coalition party, specifically in discussing the regional regulation draft. However, these obstacles were still in the form of criticism and input from several factions against the draft regional regulation to be ratified. This is known through the ongoing political communication.
Movie Reviewing - A Prospective Incidental Learning Approach in English Language Acquisition
Authors: M Senguttuvan , Tomy Prajeesh , Baisel Anu , M Vijayakumar
Published: July 2022

In applied linguistics, the practice of incidental learning i.e., learning without conscious purpose of committing the learning instructions to memory, is broadly recommended for effective Second Language Acquisition (SLA). Besides, the advent and applications of new technologies provide immense opportunities to promote and endorse incidental learning in L2 classrooms. In recent interdisciplinary respects, the integration of media studies in tertiary level English language learning curricula is reckoned to be a sensible interdisciplinary approach with potential outcomes. And, observing the long-term consumption of media, it is also quite perceptible that Indian consumerism to cinema and its offshoots is naturally on the rise. With this understanding, this research article explores the areas for English language skills development taking into account of the perks of incidental learning particularly through learners’ regular experience with movie reviews.
Multi-Keel Passive Prosthetic Foot Design Optimization Using the Lower Leg Trajectory Error Framework
Authors: Prost Victor , Peterson Heidi V. , Winter V Amos G.
Published: July 2022

People with lower-limb amputation in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) lack access to adequate prosthetic devices that would restore their mobility and increase their quality of life. This is largely due to the cost and durability of existing devices. Single-keel energy storage and return (ESR) prosthetic feet have recently been developed using the lower leg trajectory error (LLTE) design framework to provide improved walking benefits at an affordable cost in LMICs. The LLTE framework optimizes the stiffness and geometry of a user’s prosthesis to match a target walking pattern by minimizing the LLTE value, a measure of how closely a prosthetic foot replicates a target walking pattern. However, these low-cost single-keel prostheses do not provide the required durability to fulfill International Standards Organization (ISO) testing, preventing their widespread use and adoption. Here, we developed a multi-keel foot parametric model and extended the LLTE framework to include the multi-keel architecture and durability requirements. Multi-keel designs were shown to provide 76% lower LLTE values, compared with single-keel designs while withstanding ISO fatigue and static tests, validating their durability. Given their single-part 2D extruded geometries, multi-keel feet designed with the extended LLTE framework could be cost-effectively manufactured, providing affordable and durable high-performance prostheses that improve the mobility of LMIC users.
Interfinger Synchronization Capability of Paired Fingers in Discrete Fine-Force Control Tasks
Authors: Peng Cong , Yao Na , Wang Xin , Wang Dangxiao
Published: July 2022

This study examined whether within-a-hand and between-hands finger pairings would exhibit different interfinger synchronization capabilities in discrete fine-force control tasks. Participants were required to perform the designed force control tasks using finger pairings of index and middle fingers on one or two hands. Results demonstrated that the delayed reaction time and the timing difference of paired fingers showed a significant difference among finger pairings. In particular, paired fingers exhibited less delayed reaction time and timing difference in between-hands finger pairings than in within-a-hand finger pairings. Such bimanual advantage of the pairings with two symmetric fingers was evident only in the task types with relatively high amplitudes. However, for a given finger pairing, the asymmetric amplitude configuration, assigning a relatively higher amplitude to either left or right finger of paired fingers, has no significant effect on the interfinger synchronization. Therefore, paired fingers on both hands showed a bimanual advantage in the relatively high force, especially for the pairing of symmetrical fingers, whereas asymmetric amplitude configuration for a finger pairing was able to suppress the bimanual advantage. These findings would enrich the understanding of the interfinger synchronization capability of paired fingers and be referential for interactive engineering applications when leveraging the interfinger synchronization capability in discrete fine-force control tasks.
Live-cell micromanipulation of a genomic locus reveals interphase chromatin mechanics
Authors: Keizer Veer I. P. , Grosse-Holz Simon , Woringer Maxime , Zambon Laura , Aizel Koceila , Bongaerts Maud , Delille Fanny , Kolar-Znika Lorena , Scolari Vittore F. , Hoffmann Sebastian , Banigan Edward J. , Mirny Leonid A. , Dahan Maxime , Fachinetti Daniele , Coulon Antoine
Published: July 2022

Our understanding of the physical principles organizing the genome in the nucleus is limited by the lack of tools to directly exert and measure forces on interphase chromosomes in vivo and probe their material nature. Here, we introduce an approach to actively manipulate a genomic locus using controlled magnetic forces inside the nucleus of a living human cell. We observed viscoelastic displacements over micrometers within minutes in response to near-piconewton forces, which are consistent with a Rouse polymer model. Our results highlight the fluidity of chromatin, with a moderate contribution of the surrounding material, revealing minor roles for cross-links and topological effects and challenging the view that interphase chromatin is a gel-like material. Our technology opens avenues for future research in areas from chromosome mechanics to genome functions.
Ion-modulated radical doping of spiro-OMeTAD for more efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Zhang Tiankai , Wang Feng , Kim Hak-Beom , Choi In-Woo , Wang Chuanfei , Cho Eunkyung , Konefal Rafal , Puttisong Yuttapoom , Terado Kosuke , Kobera Libor , Chen Mengyun , Yang Mei , Bai Sai , Yang Bowen , Suo Jiajia , Yang Shih-Chi , Liu Xianjie , Fu Fan , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Chen Weimin M. , Brus Jiri , Coropceanu Veaceslav , Hagfeldt Anders , Brédas Jean-Luc , Fahlman Mats , Kim Dong Suk , Hu Zhangjun , Gao Feng
Published: July 2022

Record power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been obtained with the organic hole transporter 2,2′,7,7′-tetrakis(
N
,
N
-di-
p
-methoxyphenyl-amine)9,9′-spirobifluorene (spiro-OMeTAD). Conventional doping of spiro-OMeTAD with hygroscopic lithium salts and volatile 4-
tert
-butylpyridine is a time-consuming process and also leads to poor device stability. We developed a new doping strategy for spiro-OMeTAD that avoids post-oxidation by using stable organic radicals as the dopant and ionic salts as the doping modulator (referred to as ion-modulated radical doping). We achieved PCEs of >25% and much-improved device stability under harsh conditions. The radicals provide hole polarons that instantly increase the conductivity and work function (WF), and ionic salts further modulate the WF by affecting the energetics of the hole polarons. This organic semiconductor doping strategy, which decouples conductivity and WF tunability, could inspire further optimization in other optoelectronic devices.
The long shot
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: July 2022

The Voyager probes raised perplexing questions as they exited the Solar System. Now, scientists have conceived new missions to interstellar space
Radio bursts from ‘zombie’ black holes excite astronomers
Authors: Savitsky Zack
Published: July 2022

Delayed emissions from black holes that fed on stars earlier could help explain the formation of powerful jets
Protection Induced by Oral Vaccination with a Recombinant
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
Delivering
Yersinia pestis
LcrV and F1 Antigens in Mice and Rats against Pneumonic Plague
Authors: Majumder Saugata , Olson Rachel M. , Singh Amit , Wang Xiuran , Li Peng , Kittana Hatem , Anderson Paul E. , Anderson Deborah M. , Sun Wei
Published: July 2022

A newly attenuated
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
strain (designated Yptb1) with triple mutation Δ
asd
Δ
yopK
Δ
yopJ
and chromosomal insertion of the
Y. pestis
caf1R-caf1M-caf1A-caf1
operon was constructed as a live vaccine platform. Yptb1 tailored with an Asd
+
plasmid (pYA5199) (designated Yptb1[pYA5199]) simultaneously delivers
Y. pestis
LcrV and F1.
N
-(4-Methoxyphenyl)Pentanamide, a Simplified Derivative of Albendazole, Displays Anthelmintic Properties against the Nematode Toxocara canis
Authors: Silva Taís C. , Mengarda Ana C. , Lemes Bruna L. , Lescano Susana A. Z. , Souza Dalete Christine S. , Lago João Henrique G. , de Moraes Josué
Published: July 2022

Infections caused by parasitic helminths have enormous health, social, and economic impacts worldwide. The treatment and control of these diseases have been dependent on a limited set of drugs, many of which have become less effective, necessitating the search for novel anthelmintic agents.
Baicalein Acts against Candida albicans by Targeting Eno1 and Inhibiting Glycolysis
Authors: Li Liping , Lu Hui , Zhang Xuan , Whiteway Malcolm , Wu Hao , Tan Shanlun , Zang Jianye , Tian Shujuan , Zhen Cheng , Meng Xianlei , Li Wanqian , Zhang Dazhi , Zhang Min , Jiang Yuanying
Published: July 2022

Baicalein (BE) is a promising antifungal agent which has been well characterized, but its target protein is still undiscovered. The protein Eno1 plays a crucial role in the survival of
Candida albicans
.
Rates and processes controlling periglacial alluvial fan formation: Implications for martian fans
Authors: Palucis Marisa C. , Morgan A.M. , Strauss J.V. , Rivera-Hernandez F. , Marshall J.A. , Menio E. , Miller R.
Published: July 2022

Alluvial fans are found across a range of climates and are built from a combination of fluvial and debris flow processes. Correct identification of process is critical to reconstructing the climate and water histories of alluvial fans on Earth and Mars. Theory and data from subaerial Earth fans are often used to estimate paleoflow discharges and sediment fluxes for martian fans; however, most terrestrial work has been conducted on fans that are in hot, dry climates with runoff sourced from rainfall. This differs from the prevailing interpretation that martian fans were sourced from snowmelt under warming periglacial conditions. To characterize processes and rates of periglacial fan formation, we conducted a field-based study of the Black Mountain alluvial fan in the Aklavik Range, Canada. We observed active fluvial bedload transport as well as several small debris flows that had initiated from ice-filled gullies. Following a runoff event of ~0.005 mm/hr to ~0.2 mm/hr across the fan, we estimated sediment fluxes of ~0.04 m3/hr. Under bankfull conditions, we estimated runoff rates between ~0.01 mm/hr to ~14 mm/hr and corresponding sediment fluxes of ~0.3 m3/hr to ~550 m3/hr. This suggests that moderate flow events, well below the maximum runoff production rates suggested for Mars, are capable of entraining and transporting appreciable amounts of sediment by fluvial processes. However, sedimentological and geomorphological observations suggest that ~67% of the fan was deposited fluvially; the remainder was deposited by mass flows. Our results emphasize the need to take care in interpreting martian sedimentary processes and climate from fan surface morphology alone.
Trajectories of transgender adolescents referred for endocrine intervention in England
Authors: Masic Una , Butler Gary , Carruthers Paul , Carmichael Polly
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Some gender-diverse young people (YP) who experience clinically significant gender-related distress choose to pursue endocrine treatment alongside psychotherapeutic support to suppress pubertal development using gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues (GnRHa), and then to acquire the secondary sex characteristics of their identified gender using gender affirming hormones (GAH). However, little is known about the demographics of transgender adolescents accessing paediatric endocrinology services while under the specialist Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) in England.

Design

Demographics of referrals from the GIDS to affiliated endocrinology clinics to start GnRHa or GAH between 2017 and 2019 (cohort 1), with further analysis of a subgroup of this cohort referred in 2017–2018 (cohort 2) were assessed.

Results

668 adolescents (227 assigned male at birth (AMAB) and 441 assigned female at birth (AFAB)) were referred to endocrinology from 2017 to 2019. The mean age of first GIDS appointment for cohort 1 was 14.2 (±2.1) years and mean age of referral to endocrinology postassessment was 15.4 (±1.6) years. Further detailed analysis of the trajectories was conducted in 439 YP in cohort 2 (154 AMAB; 285 AFAB). The most common pathway included a referral to access GnRHa (98.1%), followed by GAH when eligible (42%), and onward referral to adult services when appropriate (64%). The majority (54%) of all adolescents in cohort 2 had a pending or completed referral to adult services.

Conclusions

This study highlights the trajectories adolescents may take when seeking endocrine treatments in child and adolescent clinical services and may be useful for guiding decisions for gender-diverse YP and planning service provision.
Burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and its attributable risk factors in 204 countries and territories, 1990-2019: results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019
Authors: Safiri Saeid , Carson-Chahhoud Kristin , Noori Maryam , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Sullman Mark J M , Ahmadian Heris Javad , Ansarin Khalil , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Collins Gary S , Kolahi Ali-Asghar , Kaufman Jay S
Published: July 2022

Objective

To report the global, regional, and national burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and its attributable risk factors between 1990 and 2019, by age, sex, and sociodemographic index.

Design

Systematic analysis.

Data source

Global Burden of Disease Study 2019.

Main outcome measures

Data on the prevalence, deaths, and disability adjusted life years (DALYs) of COPD, and its attributable risk factors, were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 project for 204 countries and territories, between 1990 and 2019. The counts and rates per 100 000 population, along with 95% uncertainty intervals, were presented for each estimate.

Results

In 2019, 212.3 million prevalent cases of COPD were reported globally, with COPD accounting for 3.3 million deaths and 74.4 million DALYs. The global age standardised point prevalence, death, and DALY rates for COPD were 2638.2 (95% uncertainty intervals 2492.2 to 2796.1), 42.5 (37.6 to 46.3), and 926.1 (848.8 to 997.7) per 100 000 population, which were 8.7%, 41.7%, and 39.8% lower than in 1990, respectively. In 2019, Denmark (4299.5), Myanmar (3963.7), and Belgium (3927.7) had the highest age standardised point prevalence of COPD. Egypt (62.0%), Georgia (54.9%), and Nicaragua (51.6%) showed the largest increases in age standardised point prevalence across the study period. In 2019, Nepal (182.5) and Japan (7.4) had the highest and lowest age standardised death rates per 100 000, respectively, and Nepal (3318.4) and Barbados (177.7) had the highest and lowest age standardised DALY rates per 100 000, respectively. In men, the global DALY rate of COPD increased up to age 85-89 years and then decreased with advancing age, whereas for women the rate increased up to the oldest age group (≥95 years). Regionally, an overall reversed V shaped association was found between sociodemographic index and the age standardised DALY rate of COPD. Factors contributing most to the DALYs rates for COPD were smoking (46.0%), pollution from ambient particulate matter (20.7%), and occupational exposure to particulate matter, gases, and fumes (15.6%).

Conclusions

Despite the decreasing burden of COPD, this disease remains a major public health problem, especially in countries with a low sociodemographic index. Preventive programmes should focus on smoking cessation, improving air quality, and reducing occupational exposures to further reduce the burden of COPD.