bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Processing, composition, and technological properties of decorticated, sprouted, and extruded pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) flours
Authors: Dias‐Martins Amanda M. , Trombete Felipe M. , Cappato Leandro P. , Chávez Davy W. H. , Santos Monique B. , Carvalho Carlos W. P.
Published: February 2024

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is a gluten‐free cereal with potential use in food security and human nutrition; however, it is still relatively unknown by the food industry and by most consumers. In order to evaluate the impact of processing on the nutritional and technological characteristics of pearl millet flours, three different processing methods (decortication, sprouting, and extrusion) were studied. The effects of processing methods on the particle size distribution, proximate composition, mineral content, bulk density, water absorption index, water solubility index (WSI), and pasting properties (rapid visco analyzer) on the flours were evaluated and compared with whole raw flour. The whole raw flour showed particles size of 355 μm, 62.5% carbohydrate, 12.0% protein, 5.6% lipid, 8.2% dietary fiber, and 1.7% ash. Decorticated flour presented decrease in mineral, dietary fiber, and protein content. The extruded flour presented the highest WSI and the lowest lipid content and paste viscosity, whereas sprouted flour showed low setback, paste viscosity, phytate content, and high protein and dietary fiber content. Decorticated and sprouted flour presented the highest luminosity, whereas extruded flours the smallest L*. The increasing color difference (ΔE*) between raw pearl millet and processed flours was sprouted < decorticated < extruded. The production of millet flour should be encouraged for various food applications, especially in Brazil, which has a large cultivated area of this cereal used only for animal feed and an expanding gluten‐free market.

Practical applications

The impact of pre‐processing methods on millet grains drives its application in the food industry. All processed flours have the potential to be used as a gluten‐free ingredient for celiacs, people with non‐celiac gluten sensitivity, and for food‐style adepts. The extruded flour has the potential to be used in the development of soups, powder drink, snacks, and breakfast cereal, whereas the sprouted flour can be used in frozen and bakery products. The decorticated flour could be explored as a substitute in different food preparations, such as biscuits, pastas, and breads.
Therapeutic drug monitoring of vedolizumab therapy in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Steenholdt Casper , Lorentsen Ruben Due , Petersen Pernille Nørgaard , Widigson Ella SK , Kloft Charlotte , Klaasen Rolf Anton , Brynskov Jørn
Published: February 2024

Background

Therapeutic drug monitoring is effective for optimizing anti‐tumor necrosis factor therapies in inflammatory bowel disease, but for vedolizumab, a gut‐selective leucocyte migration inhibitor, data are scarce.

Methods

Observational cohort study including 116 bio‐experienced inflammatory bowel disease patients treated with vedolizumab for active luminal disease. Biobanked trough blood samples (n = 676) covering 96% of patients were analyzed using a drug‐binding immunofluorometric assay. Steroid‐free treatment outcomes were classified by clinical disease activity indices and objective findings, primarily endoscopy.

Results

Patients with clinical remission to vedolizumab induction therapy (37%) had significantly higher trough levels than those without at weeks 6 (mean 34.1 vs 28.0 μg/mL, P = 0.03) and 10 (34.8 vs 27.5 μg/mL, P = 0.01). Optimal thresholds for discrimination were 32.4 μg/mL (AUCROC 0.66, P = 0.04) and 23.5 (AUCROC 0.67, P = 0.01), respectively. This positive association persisted during maintenance phase with 11.9 μg/mL (AUCROC 0.69, P < 0.01) associated with clinical remission (37%) and 15.3 (AUCROC 0.74, P < 0.001) for objective remission (46%). Stratification by temporal evolution of treatment effects revealed higher induction and maintenance vedolizumab levels in persistent and slow responders as compared to secondary or persistent failures. Pharmacokinetics was influenced by rare formation of anti‐vedolizumab antibodies (2%), and to a lesser extent gender and albumin during induction, but not disease severity, concomitant steroids, or thiopurine metabolites. Switching to subcutaneous administrations resulted in 2.3‐fold increase in steady‐state trough levels.

Conclusion

Our study supports maintaining adequate drug exposure being essential for sustained positive outcomes of vedolizumab and emphasizes individualized, therapeutic drug monitoring‐based treatment regimens. Controlled trials and pharmacokinetic modeling are, however, needed.
What are the barriers and facilitators to advance care planning with older people in long‐term care facilities? A qualitative study
Authors: Zhou Yuxin , Wang Ariel , Braybrook Debbie , Ellis‐Smith Clare , Feng Haixia , Gong Ni , Zhou Zhi , Harding Richard
Published: February 2024

Aim

To explore the views and preferences for advance care planning from the perspectives of residents, family members and healthcare professionals in long‐term care facilities.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 12 residents of long‐term care facilities, 10 family members and 14 healthcare professionals. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The social ecological model was used to develop implementation recommendations.

Results

We constructed a conceptual model of barriers and facilitators to advance care planning in long‐term care facilities, drawing upon four dominant themes from the qualitative analysis: (1) The absence of discourse on end‐of‐life care: a lack of cultural climate to talk about death, the unspoken agreement to avoid conversations about death, and poor awareness of palliative care may hinder advance care planning initiation; (2) Relational decision‐making process is a dual factor affecting advance care planning engagement; (3) Low trust and ‘unsafe’ cultures: a lack of honest information sharing, risks of violating social expectations and damaging social relationships, and risks of legal consequences may hinder willingness to engage in advance care planning; (4) Meeting and respecting residents' psychosocial needs: these can be addressed by readiness assessment, initiating advance care planning in an informal and equal manner and involving social workers.

Conclusion

Our findings show that residents' voices were not being heard. It is necessary to identify residents' spontaneous conversation triggers, articulate the value of advance care planning in light of the family's values and preferences, and respect residents' psychosocial needs to promote advance care planning in long‐term care facilities. Advance care planning may alleviate the decision‐making burden of offspring in nuclear families.

Implications for clinical practice

The evidence‐based recommendations in this study will inform the implementation of context‐specific advance care planning in Asia‐Pacific regions.

Patient and Public Contribution

Patients and caregivers contributed to the interview pilot and data collection.
Prevalence of the use of oral nutritional supplements among acute inpatients at risk of malnutrition and associated patient characteristics
Authors: Papier Irena , Chermesh Irit , Mashiach Tanya , Gruenwald Ilan , Banasiewicz Tomasz
Published: February 2024

Aim

To provide a snapshot of the current use of oral nutritional supplements, its association with inpatient characteristics, and with a focus on the role of nursing monitoring of food intake and implementing nutritional interventions for patients with low intake.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The study collected data from a hospital database regarding oral nutritional supplement initiation and variables of patients hospitalised in internal medicine departments, who did not receive enteral or parenteral nutrition.

Results

Of the 5155 admissions, 1087 fulfilled the inclusion criteria (47% female; mean age, 72.4 ± 14.6 years; mean length of stay, 14.6 ± 11.4 days). Sufficient food intake reporting was noted in 74.6% of the patients; of these 17% had decreased intake. Oral nutritional supplements and non‐oral nutritional supplements groups did not differ in terms of sex, age, length of stay, Charlson Comorbidity Index, proportion of nursing reports, and absence of intake monitoring. Oral nutritional supplements were initiated in 31.9% of patients with a Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool score ≥2 and in 34.6% with decreased food intake. On multivariable analysis, hypoalbuminemia (adjusted odds ratio, 3.70), decreased food intake (adjusted odds ratio, 3.38), Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool score ≥2 (adjusted odds ratio, 2.10), and age <70 years (adjusted odds ratio, 1.56) were significantly associated with oral nutritional supplements use.

Conclusion

The prevalence of oral nutritional intervention was suboptimal in patients at risk of malnutrition during acute hospitalisation, although decreased food intake and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool score ≥2 independently increased the probability of oral nutritional supplements initiation.

Relevance in clinical practice

Understanding the clinical practice and nursing impact of care management in relation to nutritional intervention can assist in reviewing and improving patient care.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care Impact (Addressing)

This study informs clinical management and influences nursing practice standards related to assessing, monitoring, and managing malnutrition risk.

Impact

The study impacts the quality of care for patients at risk of malnutrition.

Reporting Method

We adhered to the STROBE Checklist for cohort studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Seasonal acclimation of energy and water balance in desert‐dwelling rodents of South America
Authors: Cavieres G. , Bozinovic F. , Coronel‐Montigel M. , Dacar M. A. , Sassi P. L.
Published: February 2024

Seasonal changes in environmental conditions may induce reversible physiological adjustments in organisms. We studied the acclimatization for multiple stressors in energy expenditure and water balance in Galea leucoblephara, a diurnal hystricognath rodent native to South America that experiences significant changes in temperature, precipitation, and food availability among seasons. We conducted a field study in the Monte Desert of Mendoza, Argentina, where we evaluated adult individuals' physiological status during two contrasting seasons in terms of climate and primary productivity. Reduced temperature, rainfall, and primary productivity during winter were associated with a decrease of 70% in basal metabolic rate (BMR), 30% in total evaporative water loss (TEWL), and 9% in body mass (Mb). In contrast, higher water availability, high temperature, and primary productivity during summer, induced significant increases in energy expenditure and evaporative water loss. As expected, the proportion of dietary items consumed by G. leucoblephara varied seasonally, resulting in a more diverse diet during summer. Our results illustrate how G. leucoblephara can cope with high seasonal contrasts in water availability, temperature, and food availability by modifying its physiological performance. Our data provide support for the hypothesis of physiological flexibility in energetic traits and water balance in response to the environmental challenges of the Monte Desert.
Nursing workforce plays a significant role in reducing COVID‐19 deaths worldwide: A cross‐sectional analysis of data from 178 countries
Authors: You Wenpeng , Donnelly Frank
Published: February 2024

Worldwide, the role of nursing workforce in reducing COVID‐19 case fatality ratio (CFR) is analyzed with scatter plots, Pearson's r and nonparametric, partial correlation and multiple linear regression models. The potential confounders, median age, health expenditure, physician density, and urbanization were incorporated for calculating the independent role of nursing workforce in protecting against COVID‐19 CFR. The study findings suggested that (1) the nursing workforce inversely and significantly correlates with COVID‐19 CFR; (2) this relationship remained independent of the confounding effects of each individual confounder or their combination; (3) Nursing workforce was the only variable identified as a significant contributor for reducing COVID‐19 CFR, when it was incorporated into stepwise regression model with health expenditure, median age, physician density, and urbanization for analyzing their individual predicting effects on COVID‐19 CFR. A strong message for the health authorities is that, although in shortage, nursing workforce showed their significant role in reducing COVID‐19 deaths worldwide. This study highlights that the role of nursing workforce should be incorporated into population health research.
Ethical considerations for the nursing care of Transgender patients in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Gilmore John P. , Dainton Marissa , McEvoy Natalie L.
Published: February 2024

There is more discussion than ever surrounding the health and care needs of Transgender communities. However, there is limited research on the care of Transgender patients in the Intensive Care Unit which can contribute to knowledge gaps, inconsistencies and uncertainties surrounding health care practices. This article is not intended to address all of the specific needs of Transgender patients in ICU, but to explore the ethical considerations for caring for a Transgender woman in the ICU. In doing so, this article will explore some specific considerations around gender affirming care, challenging discrimination, physiological changes, and systems change to enhance care.
Digital device viewing behaviour in children
Authors: Richards Josh , Jaskulski Matt , Rickert Martin , Kollbaum Pete
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Habitual viewing behaviour is widely believed to be an important contributing factor to the onset and progression of myopia and may be task dependent. The purpose of this study was to quantify the habitual viewing distance of children performing five different tasks on a smartphone digital device.

Methods

The real‐time viewing distance in 38 children with their habitual correction was measured using software (MyopiaApp) on a handheld (Google Pixel 3) device. Five tasks were performed in a randomised sequence: playing a game, watching video in a light (680 lux) and dark (5.5 lux) environment and reading small (8 pt) and large (16 pt) text. ANCOVA statistical analysis was used to evaluate the effect of task, group (myope vs. non‐myope) and arm length on the median relative viewing distance.

Results

Arm length was not correlated with viewing distance in any of the tasks, and there was no significant difference in viewing distance between any of the tasks. Specifically, a two‐way mixed ANCOVA indicated that task, refractive group (myopic vs. non‐myopic), age and arm length, as well as all two‐way interactions were not significantly associated with viewing distance. Overall, 60% of the total variance in viewing distance was accounted for by individual differences.

Conclusions

The average handheld viewing distance was similar across a variety of everyday tasks in a representative sample of myopic and emmetropic children. Neither arm length, age nor refractive group were associated with viewing distance in any of the tasks. Importantly, myopic children of a given size did not hold the smartphone digital device at a different distance for any task than their equally sized non‐myopic peers. However, both groups exhibited high inter‐individual variability in mean viewing distance, indicating some subjects performed all tasks at further distances while other subjects used at nearer distances.
A rapid and scalable approach to build synthetic repetitive hormone‐responsive promoters
Authors: Fernandez‐Moreno Josefina‐Patricia , Yaschenko Anna E. , Neubauer Matthew , Marchi Alex J. , Zhao Chengsong , Ascencio‐Ibanez José T. , Alonso Jose M. , Stepanova Anna N.
Published: February 2024

Advancement of DNA‐synthesis technologies has greatly facilitated the development of synthetic biology tools. However, high‐complexity DNA sequences containing tandems of short repeats are still notoriously difficult to produce synthetically, with commercial DNA synthesis companies usually rejecting orders that exceed specific sequence complexity thresholds. To overcome this limitation, we developed a simple, single‐tube reaction method that enables the generation of DNA sequences containing multiple repetitive elements. Our strategy involves commercial synthesis and PCR amplification of padded sequences that contain the repeats of interest, along with random intervening sequence stuffers that include type IIS restriction enzyme sites. GoldenBraid molecular cloning technology is then employed to remove the stuffers, rejoin the repeats together in a predefined order, and subclone the tandem(s) in a vector using a single‐tube digestion–ligation reaction. In our hands, this new approach is much simpler, more versatile and efficient than previously developed solutions to this problem. As a proof of concept, two different phytohormone‐responsive, synthetic, repetitive proximal promoters were generated and tested in planta in the context of transcriptional reporters. Analysis of transgenic lines carrying the synthetic ethylene‐responsive promoter 10x2EBS‐S10 fused to the GUS reporter gene uncovered several developmentally regulated ethylene response maxima, indicating the utility of this reporter for monitoring the involvement of ethylene in a variety of physiologically relevant processes. These encouraging results suggest that this reporter system can be leveraged to investigate the ethylene response to biotic and abiotic factors with high spatial and temporal resolution.
Integrated full‐length transcriptome and metabolome analysis reveals the defence response of melon to gummy stem blight
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Wei Xiaoying , Mo Changjuan , Wei Minghua , Li Yaqiong , Fan Yuxin , Gu Xiaojing , Zhang Xuejun , Zhang Yongbing , Kong Qiusheng
Published: February 2024

Gummy stem blight (GSB), a widespread disease causing great loss to cucurbit production, has become a major threat to melon cultivation. However, the melon–GSB interaction remains largely unknown. Here, full‐length transcriptome and widely targeted metabolome were used to investigate the defence responses of resistant (PI511089) and susceptible (Payzawat) melon accessions to GSB pathogen infection at 24 h. The biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and MAPK signalling pathway were specifically enriched for differentially expressed genes in PI511890, while carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolism were specifically enriched in Payzawat. More than 1000 novel genes were identified and MAPK signalling pathway was specifically enriched for them in PI511890. There were 11 793 alternative splicing events involving in the defence response to GSB. Totally, 910 metabolites were identified in Payzawat and PI511890, and flavonoids were the dominant metabolites. Integrated full‐length transcriptome and metabolome analysis showed eriodictyol and oxalic acid were the potential marker metabolites for GSB resistance in melon. Moreover, posttranscription regulation was widely involved in the defence response of melon to GSB pathogen infection. These results not only improve our understanding on the interaction between melon and GSB, but also facilitate the genetic improvement of melon with GSB resistance.
Regulation timing in the states: The role of divided government and legislative recess
Authors: Bark Tracey , Bell Elizabeth , Ter‐Mkrtchyan Ani
Published: February 2024

Bureaucratic rulemaking is a key feature of American policymaking. However, rulemaking activities do not occur uniformly, but fluctuate throughout the year. We consider three mechanisms to explain these changes in rule volume, each of which produces unique expectations for rulemaking during periods of divided government and legislative recess. To test these expectations, we leverage an original dataset including all rules proposed by bureaucratic agencies in three U.S. states from 2004 to 2013 matched with data tracking periods of divided government and legislative recess. We find that state bureaucracies publish significantly more proposed rules during periods of divided government or a split legislature and are most productive in the months immediately following legislative recess. These results underscore the importance of bureaucratic policymaking and improve our understanding of the balance of power between branches of state governments.
Project Safe Guard: Challenges and opportunities of a universal rollout of peer‐delivered lethal means safety counseling at a US military installation
Authors: Stanley Ian H. , Anestis Michael D. , Bryan Craig J. , Moceri‐Brooks Jayna , Baker Justin C. , Buck‐Atkinson Jessica , Bryan AnnaBelle O. , Johnson Megan , Hunter Kyleanne , Johnson Rachel L. , Xiao Mengli , Betz Marian E.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The US Department of Defense recommends lethal means safety counseling (LMSC) to promote firearm injury prevention via secure storage of personal firearms. We describe the rollout of a universal, peer‐delivered adaptation of Project Safe Guard (PSG)—a brief, single‐session LMSC discussion—at a US Space Force installation.

Method

Program evaluation data were collected via anonymous, voluntary, and online surveys. Of approximately 862 eligible active‐duty service members and embedded civilians, 324 completed the preprogram survey and 68 and 37 completed the 1‐ and 2‐month follow‐ups, respectively.

Results

At preprogram, 69.1% agreed that peer‐delivered LMSC is appropriate. After rollout, 100% of the 222 firearm locking devices available to service members were requested from the on‐base Violence Prevention Integrator. The effectiveness of PSG was indeterminable due to the low survey response rates.

Conclusions

Despite strong preprogram support for peer‐delivered LMSC and behavioral indicators of secure firearm storage (e.g., firearm locking device requests), several challenges limited the uptake and evaluability of the PSG program in this naturalistic environment, including military survey fatigue and competing mission priorities. Additional work is needed to determine the effectiveness of peer‐delivered LMSC in a military context. Sustained base support and military‐civilian collaborations will be critical.
The Virtual Hope Box mobile application: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Gerner Jessica L. , Tucker Raymond P. , Moscardini Emma H. , Bagge Courtney L. , Reger Mark A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The Virtual Hope Box (VHB) mobile application is an adapted version of the conventional hope box intervention that is used in several evidence‐based treatments for suicide behaviors. The VHB is an award‐winning app developed by a collaboration between the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. Multiple studies have assessed the utility and effectiveness of the VHB for use in suicide prevention, but no reviews of the literature have been conducted.

Methods

Authors performed a review of the literature using PsycINFO, EBSCOhost, and PubMed. 15 articles were ultimately included.

Results

Results were categorized into three areas: (1) efficacy and effectiveness, (2) feasibility, awareness, and usage in high‐risk populations, and (3) implementation approaches to increase use among patients and providers. Existing evidence for the VHB supports its feasibility and acceptability, especially among military and veteran populations. Only one study investigated effectiveness in a randomized control trial. Although the VHB developers have disseminated the app nationally, low adoption rates among veteran patients and VA providers remain. Studies found that educational implementation strategies can improve utilization rates.

Conclusions

Future research should examine suicide behaviors as outcomes, approaches to incorporating the VHB into treatment, and a range of populations.
The novel HLA‐B*58:144N allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Zhi Chen , Xie Zhi‐cong , Ma Li , Li Ye‐mo , Xiong Hao
Published: February 2024

HLA‐B*58:144N differs from HLA‐B*58:01:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 2.
Impacto tecnológico en el derecho procesal: Subsanación de la demanda, prueba testimonial y sentencia C-134 de 2023
Authors: Naizir Sistac Juan Carlos
Published: February 2024

Este artículo producto de investigación tiene por objeto estudiar la influencia y los cambios que han generado las tecnologías de la información y las comunicaciones -TIC- en el proceso judicial frente a la subsanación de la demanda y la prueba testimonial, así como los efectos de la justicia digital para celebrar las audiencias judiciales en su modalidad presencial o virtual estudiadas en la sentencia de constitucionalidad C-134 de 3 de mayo de 2023 proferida por la Corte Constitucional de Colombia en el que se revisa la constitucionalidad del proyecto de ley que modifica la ley estatutaria de la administración de justicia – Ley 270 de 1996 –. Se concluye que aplicando la tecnología y la virtualidad al proceso judicial la subsanación de la demanda debe ser integrada en un solo escrito y la prueba testimonial se ha modificado en la manera como se protege la espontaneidad del testigo y los inconvenientes de la tacha por inhabilidad cuando el testigo tiene una inhabilidad relativa para declarar en la virtualidad. Igualmente, se destaca la afinidad de la Corte Constitucional por las audiencias virtuales sean o no de pruebas y la determinación del juez para definir la modalidad de la audiencia. Para la elaboración se ha empleado el método dogmático de investigación jurídica, que tiene en cuenta las disposiciones legales, la doctrina y la jurisprudencia de las altas Cortes en Colombia.
Sistematización teórica, dogmática y normativa de la noción de acceso a la justicia para consumidores en relación con el uso los online dispute resolution en el comercio electrónico
Authors: Martínez-Cárdenas Betty , Buendía Paloma , Ojeda Nicolás
Published: February 2024

Los objetivos de este artículo son, primero, revisar los alcances teóricos y debates referidos al “acceso a la justicia”, para plantear un concepto de derecho a la autocomposición del conflicto para los consumidores; y, segundo, sistematizar los estándares que dotan de contenido normativo al derecho fundamental al acceso a la justicia de los consumidores en el marco del derecho internacional privado y el derecho comparado en los reglamentos que establecen principios para el uso de Online Dispute Resolution, ODR,  y en los cuerpos legislativos vigentes sobre la materia.  Para ello, con la ayuda del método de derecho comparado, hemos analizado los instrumentos internacionales que tratan de estandarizar los principios que deberían regir estas plataformas para el comercio internacional y, en particular, para el comercio electrónico.  El estudio concluye con algunas recomendaciones para la integración de estos principios en cualquier legislación nacional que considere hacerlo.
Modeling Ammonia-Hydrogen-Air Combustion and Emission Characteristics of a Generic Swirl Burner
Authors: Mazzotta Luca , Lamioni Rachele , D'Alessio Francesco , Meloni Roberto , Morris Steven , Goktepe Burak , Cerutti Matteo , Romano Christian , Creta Francesco , Galletti Chiara , Borello Domenico , Valera-Medina Agustin
Published: February 2024

The combustion process of both pure NH3 and a NH3/H2 fuel blends is here analyzed using two kinetics processors, i.e., Chemkin-Pro-and CANTERA: detailed kinetic mechanisms have been tested and compared in terms of laminar flame speed and ignition delay time (IDT) with the aim to identifying the most suitable ones for the evaluation of NOx emissions. The generic swirl burner being used in Cardiff University's Gas Turbine Research Center has been considered as validation test case. In addition, this paper presents an experimental campaign followed by a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach for the assessment of NOx emission using axisymmetric Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) simulations, leading to a significant reduction of the computational time. Different pressures and mass flow rates are evaluated to understand correlations of NOx formation for pollutants reduction purpose. A direct comparison between experimental and numerical results is carried out in terms of flow field, flame shape, and NOx emissions. Results show that the increase in pressure from 1.1 bar to 2 bar results in reduction of NOx emissions from 2515 ppmv to 885 ppmv, also indicating guidelines for using a simplified RANS analysis, which leads to improved computational efficiency, allowing wide sensitivity and optimization analysis to support the design development of an industrial combustion system.
Demonstration of the propagation of errors using resistors
Authors: Gan K. K.
Published: February 2024

We present a simple experiment to demonstrate the concept of propagation of errors by measuring resistors on printed circuit boards (PCBs). We devise a method for connecting the resistors on a PCB that allows a relatively quick measurement of 200 resistor pairs to show that the distributions of the measurement of individual resistances, as well as the total resistance, are Gaussian-distributed, as expected from the central limit theorem. The measurement demonstrates how individual uncertainties propagate to the total uncertainty. The experiment is part of a laboratory course on statistics for physics students that emphasizes the application of statistics in data analysis.
Thermal damping of the motion of a piston: Any irreversibility implies dissipation
Authors: Corti David S. , Ciesar Joshua A. , Vazquez Juan M.
Published: February 2024

We consider the motion of a frictionless piston that separates the surrounding atmosphere from an ideal gas enclosed within a cylinder, with no friction or viscous dissipation arising within the gas or surrounding atmosphere. Although no mechanically based dissipative mechanisms act, the motion of the piston is still damped if heat transfer between the gas and the piston occurs at a finite rate. Hence, as long as some kind of irreversibility develops within the system, such as irreversible heat transfer, the piston will not oscillate back-and-forth indefinitely and must eventually come to rest. We provide detailed thermodynamic and numerical analyses of this thermal damping, various aspects of which should prove useful to both students and instructors when discussing the first and second laws of thermodynamics.
Tracking hand movements with a smart glove
Authors: Matsiko Amos
Published: February 2024

Dynamic hand movements could be detected in real time using machine learning and a smart textile glove.
Chondrocyte membrane–coated nanoparticles promote drug retention and halt cartilage damage in rat and canine osteoarthritis
Authors: Deng Ronghui , Zhao Ruifang , Zhang Zining , Chen Yang , Yang Meng , Lin Yixuan , Ye Jing , Li Nan , Qin Hao , Yan Xin , Shi Jian , Yuan Fuzhen , Song Shitang , Xu Zijie , Song Yifan , Fu Jiangnan , Xu Bingbing , Nie Guangjun , Yu Jia-Kuo
Published: February 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disease characterized by progressive degeneration of articular cartilage. A challenge in the development of disease-modifying drugs is effective delivery to chondrocytes. The unique structure of the joint promotes rapid clearance of drugs through synovial fluid, and the dense and avascular cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) limits drug penetration. Here, we show that poly(lactide-
co
-glycolic acid) nanoparticles coated in chondrocyte membranes (CM-NPs) were preferentially taken up by rat chondrocytes ex vivo compared with uncoated nanoparticles. Internalization of the CM-NPs was mediated primarily by E-cadherin, clathrin-mediated endocytosis, and micropinocytosis. These CM-NPs adhered to the cartilage ECM in rat knee joints in vivo and penetrated deeply into the cartilage matrix with a residence time of more than 34 days. Simulated synovial fluid clearance studies showed that CM-NPs loaded with a Wnt pathway inhibitor, adavivint (CM-NPs-Ada), delayed the catabolic metabolism of rat and human chondrocytes and cartilage explants under inflammatory conditions. In a surgical model of rat OA, drug-loaded CM-NPs effectively restored gait, attenuated periarticular bone remodeling, and provided chondroprotection against cartilage degeneration. OA progression was also mitigated by CM-NPs-Ada in a canine model of anterior cruciate ligament transection. These results demonstrate the feasibility of using chondrocyte membrane–coated nanoparticles to improve the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of anti-OA drugs.
Accuracy of quantitative viral secondary standards: a re-examination
Authors: Hayden R. T. , Su Y. , Tang L. , Zhu H. , Gu Z. , Glasgow H. L. , Sam S. S. , Caliendo A. M.
Published: February 2024

Interlaboratory agreement of viral load assays depends on the accuracy and uniformity of quantitative calibrators. Previous work demonstrated poor agreement of secondary cytomegalovirus (CMV) standards with nominal values. This study re-evaluated this issue among commercially produced secondary standards for both BK virus (BKV) and CMV, using digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) to compare the materials from three different manufacturers. Overall, standards showed an improved agreement compared to prior work, against nominal values in both log
10
copies/mL and log
10
international unit (IU)/mL, with bias from manufacturer-assigned nominal values of 0.0–0.9 log
10
units (either copies or IU)/mL. Standards normalized to IU and those values assigned by dPCR rather than by real-time PCR (qPCR) showed better agreement with nominal values. The latter reinforces prior conclusions regarding the utility of using such methods for quantitative value assignment in reference materials. Quantitative standards have improved over the last several years, and the remaining bias from nominal values might be further reduced by universal implementation of dPCR methods for value assignment, normalized to IU.

IMPORTANCE

Interlaboratory agreement of viral load assays depends on accuracy and uniformity of quantitative calibrators. Previous work, published in JCM several years ago, demonstrated poor agreement of secondary cytomegalovirus (CMV) standards with nominal values. This study re-evaluated this issue among commercially produced secondary standards for both BK virus (BKV) and CMV, using digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) to compare the materials from three different manufacturers. Overall, standards showed an improved agreement compared to prior work, against nominal values, indicating a substantial improvement in the production of accurate secondary viral standards, while supporting the need for further work in this area and for the broad adaption of international unit (IU) as a reporting standard for quantitative viral load results.
Manganese homeostasis modulates fungal virulence and stress tolerance in
Candida albicans
Authors: Henry Manon , Khemiri Inès , Tebbji Faiza , Abu-Helu Rasmi , Vincent Antony T. , Sellam Adnane
Published: February 2024

Due to the scarcity of transition metals within the human host, fungal pathogens have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to uptake and utilize these micronutrients at the infection interface. While considerable attention was turned to iron and copper acquisition mechanisms and their importance in fungal fitness, less was done regarding either the role of manganese (Mn) in infectious processes or the cellular mechanism by which fungal cells achieve their Mn-homeostasis. Here, we undertook transcriptional profiling in the pathogenic fungus
Candida albicans
experiencing both Mn starvation and excess to capture biological processes that are modulated by this metal. We uncovered that Mn scarcity influences diverse processes associated with fungal fitness including invasion of host cells and antifungal sensitivity. We show that Mn levels influence the abundance of iron and zinc emphasizing the complex crosstalk between metals. The deletion of
SMF12
, a member of Mn Nramp transporters, confirmed its contribution to Mn uptake.
smf12
was unable to form hyphae and damage host cells and exhibited sensitivity to azoles. We found that the unfolded protein response (UPR), likely activated by decreased glycosylation under Mn limitation, was required to recover growth when cells were shifted from an Mn-starved to an Mn-repleted medium. RNA-seq profiling of cells exposed to Mn excess revealed that UPR was also activated. Furthermore, the UPR signaling axis Ire1-Hac1 was required to bypass Mn toxicity. Collectively, this study underscores the importance of Mn homeostasis in fungal virulence and comprehensively provides a portrait of biological functions that are modulated by Mn in a fungal pathogen.

IMPORTANCE

Transition metals such as manganese provide considerable functionality across biological systems as they are used as cofactors for many catalytic enzymes. The availability of manganese is very limited inside the human body. Consequently, pathogenic microbes have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to uptake this micronutrient inside the human host to sustain their growth and cause infections. Here, we undertook a comprehensive approach to understand how manganese availability impacts the biology of the prevalent fungal pathogen,
Candida albicans
. We uncovered that manganese homeostasis in this pathogen modulates different biological processes that are essential for host infection which underscores the value of targeting fungal manganese homeostasis for potential antifungal therapeutics development.
Jake Seller Draw impact structure, Bighorn Basin, Wyoming, USA: The deepest known buried impact structure on Earth and its possible relation to the Wyoming crater field
Authors: Sturm Sebastian , Kenkmann Thomas , Cook Doug , Fraser Allan , Sundell Kent
Published: February 2024

We provide evidence demonstrating the impact origin of a structure, here named the Jake Seller Draw impact structure, which is buried below the Jake Seller Draw drainage basin, in the Bighorn Basin of Wyoming, western United States. The 4.3-km-diameter structure was first recognized as a seismic disturbance at a depth of ~6.5 km in two- and three-dimensional seismic profiles. Microstructural analysis of drill cuttings situated in the center and outside of Jake Seller Draw revealed the presence of multiple sets of planar deformation features and planar fractures in nine quartz grains, thereby confirming the hypervelocity impact origin of the structure. The seismic data show that Jake Seller Draw is a complex impact structure containing a 1-km-wide central uplift. The geologic and seismic data suggest that Jake Seller Draw is the most deeply buried impact structure known on Earth to date. The stratigraphic framework suggests that the crater was formed in a nearshore environment at the Pennsylvanian–Permian boundary, ~280 m.y. ago. This age coincides with the age of the Wyoming crater field 300 km southeast of Jake Seller Draw and may suggest a common origin.
Long-lived Northern Hemisphere convergence systems driven by upper-mantle thermal inhomogeneity
Authors: Liu Liang , Cao Zebin , Morgan Jason P. , Li Hong-Yan , Yang Fan , Xu Yi-Gang
Published: February 2024

Plate reconstructions reveal that two secular centers of convergence formed beneath eastern Eurasia and North America no later than 200 Ma. The cause of these convergence centers, which featured flat subduction, slab stagnation, and/or continental margin subduction, remains uncertain. Here, we propose that upper-mantle thermal inhomogeneity, particularly an anomalously cool Northern Hemispheric upper mantle, was a fundamental driver of this long-lived convergence. By considering the pattern of observed thermal inhomogeneity, our numerical models show that flow-induced asymmetrical subduction will tend to develop toward cold mantle domains, even when the subducting plate is buoyant. The models can reproduce the diverse subduction styles observed in the Northern Hemisphere by including proposed pre-subduction plate distributions and/or properties.
Supplemental Material: Tectonic dismemberment and plume-ridge interaction in the Sub-Antarctic South Atlantic Ocean Basin: Confirmation from in situ geochemical and Sr isotopic
Authors: Chen Shuangshuang , et al.
Published: February 2024

Geochemical data and supplemental figures generated in this study are 7 included in Supplemental Text S1, Tables S1–S8, and Figures S1–S10.
Role of exhaled hydrogen sulfide in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Du Peizhun , Tseng Yujen , Liu Pengcheng , Zhang Huilu , Huang Guangjian , Hu Cheng’en , Chen Jian
Published: February 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is often accompanied by increased excretion of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). This study aimed to explore the value of exhaled H2S in the diagnosis of CRC.

Methods

A total of 80 people with normal colonoscopy results and 57 patients with CRC were enrolled into the present observational cohort study. Exhaled oral and nasal H2S were detected by Nanocoulomb breath analyser. Results were compared between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were analysed and area under the curves (AUCs) were calculated to assess the diagnostic value of exhaled H2S. Meanwhile, the clinicopathological features, including gender, lesion location and tumour staging of patients with CRC, were also collected and analysed.

Results

The amount of exhaled H2S from patients with CRC was significantly higher than that of those with normal colonoscopy results. The ROC curve showed an AUC value of 0.73 and 0.71 based on oral and nasal H2S detection, respectively. The exhaled H2S in patients with CRC was correlated with gender, lesion location and tumour progression, including depth of invasion, lymphatic metastasis and TNM (Tumor, Lymph Nodes, Metastasis) staging.

Conclusion

Exhaled H2S analysis is a convenient and non-invasive detection method for diagnosing CRC, suggesting a potential role in population screening for CRC.
Primary healthcare system and provider responses to the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan
Authors: Basij-Rasikh Mustafa , Dickey Elisa S , Sharkey Alyssa
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Existing health system challenges in Afghanistan were amplified by the Taliban’s August 2021 government takeover during which the country faced an evolving security situation, border closures, banking interruptions, donor funding disruptions and international staff evacuations. We investigated factors that influenced health sector and health service delivery following the takeover.

Methods

We purposively sampled individuals knowledgeable about Afghanistan’s health sector and health professionals working in underserved areas of the country. We identified codes and themes of the data using framework analysis.

Results

Factors identified as supporting continued health service delivery following August 2021 include external funding and operational flexibilities, ongoing care provision by local implementers and providers, health worker motivation, flexible contracting out arrangements and improved security. Factors identified as contributing to disruptions include damaged infrastructure, limited supplies, ineffective government implementation efforts and changes in government leadership and policies resulting in new coordination and capacity challenges. There were mixed views on the role pay-for-performance schemes played. Participants also shared concerns about the new working environment. These included loss of qualified health professionals and the associated impact on quality of care, continued dependency on external funding, women’s inability to finish their studies or take on any leadership positions, various impacts of the Mahram policy, mental stress, the future of care provision for female patients and widespread economic hardship which impacts nearly every aspect of Afghan life.

Conclusion

Afghanistan’s health sector presents a compelling case of adaptability in the face of crisis. Despite the anticipated and reported total collapse due to the country’s power shift, various factors enabled health services to continue in some settings while others acted as barriers. The potential role of these factors should be considered in the context of future service delivery in Afghanistan and other settings at risk of political and societal disruption.
Towards a better understanding of real-world home-visiting programs: a large-scale effectiveness study of parenting mechanisms in Brazil
Authors: Healy Morgan Rebecca , Viegas da Silva Eduardo , Lundborg Anton Rask , Hartwig Fernando Pires , Munhoz Tiago Neuenfeld , Arteche Adriane Xavier , Ramchandani Paul G , Murray Joseph
Published: February 2024

Background

The scale-up of parenting programmes to support early childhood development (ECD) is poorly understood. Little is known about how and when early interventions are most effective. Sustainability of ECD programming requires a better understanding of the mechanisms of real-world interventions. We examined the effects on caregiving practices of Primeira Infância Melhor (PIM), a state-wide home-visiting programme in Brazil.

Methods

This propensity score matched, longitudinal, quasiexperimental study uses data from the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort. We matched children who received PIM at any age with other cohort children on 25 key covariates. Sensitivity, guidance and responsiveness were assessed using video-recorded play tasks. Coerciveness and the parent–child relationship were assessed using the Parenting and Family Adjustment Scales. All parenting outcomes were examined at age 4 years. Separate moderation analyses were conducted for each effect modifier: family income, child age and duration of participation.

Results

Out of 4275 children in the cohort, 797 were enrolled in PIM up to age 4 years. 3018 children (70.6%) were included in the analytic sample, of whom 587 received PIM and 2431 were potential controls. We found a positive effect of PIM on responsiveness (β=0.08, 95% CIs 0.002 to 0.16) and sensitivity (β=0.10, 95% CIs 0.02 to 0.19). No effect was found for any secondary outcomes. Moderation analyses revealed a stronger positive effect on sensitivity for low-income parents (β=0.18, 95% CIs 0.03 to 0.34).

Conclusion

A state-wide, home-visiting programme in Brazil improved aspects of responsive caregiving. Effects were more pronounced for low-income families, suggesting benefits of purposeful targeting.
Meaning of nutrition for cancer survivors: a photovoice study
Authors: O’Callaghan Niamh , Douglas Pauline , Keaver Laura
Published: February 2024

Background

Little is known about how cancer survivors perceive nutrition through the cancer experience and how those perceptions may influence their diet.

Aims

This study aimed to capture the meaning of nutrition for cancer survivors who are post-cancer treatment using a participatory photography method known as photovoice.

Methods

Wang and Burris’s photovoice procedure was followed. Recruitment took place via email through existing links with participants from a previous quantitative study. The participants were tasked with taking photographs to represent the meaning of nutrition for them post-treatment. Group workshops and semistructured interviews were conducted to facilitate reflection, dialogue and analysis. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis.

Results

One man and seven women (n=8) across the Island of Ireland were recruited. Participants identified six themes (illustrated with photographs): (1) Fresh is Best, (2) Be kind to yourself, (3) Building Blocks. Be Informed., (4) Post-Treatment Healing Changes, (5) Chemo Rituals and (6) Food for the Soul–Healthy Mind. Healthy Body.

Conclusions

Participants displayed a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle for recovery post-treatment and maintaining health. While diverse, participants made post-treatment nutritional changes by introducing and eliminating certain foods or food groups. All agreed that being informed and building nutrition knowledge are essential. It is important to clarify the implications cancer has had on diet and health when providing nutrition guidance to ensure that it is appropriate and specific.