bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood donor questionnaires and infectious disease screening in Latin American countries
Authors: Marrero‐Rivera Gisela , García‐Otálora Michel‐Andrés , Gonzalez Carlos , Pérez‐Carrillo José , Rojas Paolo , Castellanos Paula , Granados Melissa , Herrera Guillermo , Montemayor Celina , Bakhtary Sara
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Blood donor questionnaires are tools used to screen prospective blood donors to determine their eligibility. There are limited data regarding blood donor questionnaires and infectious disease screening of the blood supply in Latin American countries. This study aimed to survey donor centres in Latin American countries to learn more about blood donor screening and infection assessment.

Materials and Methods

An international team of transfusion medicine professionals including medical directors and supervisors who work or collaborate with Latin American donor centres, called ‘Comité de Investigación en Medicina Transfusional’, designed a survey (16 questions) to characterize blood donor eligibility in Latin America.

Results

Eighty‐two institutions from 14 Latin American countries responded to the survey. Most donor centres (66%; 54 of 82) had a donor deferral percentage between 5% and 25%, and the most common causes of deferrals were low haemoglobin and high‐risk behaviour. Most donors in blood centres were directed family donors compared with voluntary donors. Infection evaluation included mostly serologic assessment (81%; 30 of 37) for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Treponema pallidum and Trypanosoma cruzi rather than nucleic acid tests (5%; 2 of 37).

Conclusion

Heterogeneity exists in donor selection and infectious disease screening in Latin American countries. This survey provides valuable information to understand Latin American blood centre practices.
Optimizing the Sewing Position of Flexible Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters on a Three-Dimensional Deforming Heart: An Integrated Approach Using Finite Element Analysis, Deep Learning, and Theoretical Modeling
Authors: Lai Qi , Zhang Yangyang , Lu Bingwei , Zhang Weisheng , Lü Chaofeng , Zhang He
Published: August 2024

Flexible piezoelectric energy harvesters (FPEHs) have attracted tremendous attention due to their potential applications in the field of biomedicine, such as powering implantable devices. Despite observations in numerous in vivo experiments that the electrical output of FPEHs varies considerably with sewing positions during energy harvesting from heartbeats, optimal sewing positions have not been thoroughly investigated. In this article, an approach that integrates finite element analysis (FEA), long short-term memory (LSTM) deep learning method, and theoretical modeling was proposed to investigate the impact of the sewing position on the harvest performance of the FPEH, utilizing real three-dimensional heart deformation data as the end-to-end displacement load for the FPEH. The results reveal that the sewing positions have a significant influence on the electric output performance of the FPEH. The optimal sewing position was identified near the posterior interventricular groove on the upper part of the left ventricle, with a corresponding optimal resistance value of 8 MΩ and an output power of 122.9 nW. Additionally, five suggested sewing positions across different regions of the heart's surface were provided for clinical application. The methodology that integrates FEA, deep learning approach, and theoretical modeling in this article can be extended to determine the optimal position for the flexible devices patching on other irregular and deforming surfaces.
Modeling the Dynamic Response of a Light-Driven Liquid Crystal Elastomer Fiber/Baffle/Spring-Coupled System
Authors: Dai Zheng , Yang Fan , Wu Hao , Li Kai , Yu Yong
Published: August 2024

A self-oscillating system can harness energy from the external environment to sustain its continuous motion, making it highly suitable for applications in soft robotics, military industry, energy, and other fields. This article introduces a system composed of a light-responsive liquid crystal elastomer fiber, a baffle, and a spring, capable of achieving self-oscillation under stable lighting conditions. Considering the established dynamic model of light-responsive liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), a nonlinear dynamic model is introduced and used as the basis for exploring its dynamic characteristics. Numerical computations reveal that the coupled system exhibits two distinct motion states: self-oscillation and static states. The behavior of the system is sustained through the interaction of light energy and damping dissipation. Furthermore, a detailed investigation is conducted on the key system parameters affecting the frequency and amplitude of self-oscillation. In contrast to the complexity of current self-oscillating systems, this particular self-oscillating system features simplicity in structure, ease of manufacture, and strong adaptability. These advantages are expected to provide broader design possibilities for micro-machines and mechanical production processes.
Design of Facile Dielectric Elastomer-Based Bending Module for Soft Robotics Applications
Authors: Song Kaidong , Wu Yi , Zhai Yingnan , Yin Jun , Qian Jin , Huang Yong
Published: August 2024

Dielectric elastomer (DE)-based soft actuators have been actively studied in the field of soft actuation technology based on their unique properties such as high energy density, large actuation strain, inherent compliance, lightweight, silent operation, and faster response when compared with other actuators. A dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) bending module based on dielectric elastomer minimum energy structures (DEMES) is proposed by adopting a bi-material system consisting of a DE membrane attached to a flexible acrylic frame with a hollow in the middle. Its bending performance can be satisfactorily predicted analytically and numerically, which helps design the DEA bending module better. For a typical DEA bending module with a DE membrane of 20 mm × 20 mm (width and length) and an acrylic frame with a hollow of 4 mm × 60 mm (width and length), 30.23° actuation angle and 53.96° actuation angle can be achieved with a single module and two serially assembled modules, respectively, under an 8 kV excitation voltage. The hollow design on the acrylic frame avoids the contact problem between the electrode-coated DE layer and the stiff frame sheet. A soft rotatable gripper and a biomimetic crawling robot are designed and fabricated for demonstration.
Implementing Eye Movement Tracking for UAV Navigation
Authors: Zendehdel Niloofar , Chen Haodong , Song Yun Seong , Leu Ming C.
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) control through electrooculography (EOG) based eye movement tracking. The research focuses on developing an interface that translates eye movements into UAV navigation commands, showcasing a unique integration of biometric technology in UAV (i.e., drone) control. To measure horizontal eye movements, we used EOG electrodes positioned near the person’s eyes. Using a thresholding algorithm, eye movements are categorized as right, left, or neutral, and then converted into control signals using a finite state machine. The control signals are then sent to the UAV via an internet connection. Our experimental results demonstrate precise and efficient UAV control through EOG-based eye tracking. This approach demonstrates a new direction in human-robot interaction, and it holds potential in assistive technology for individuals with mobility or communication challenges. This study establishes a foundation for future advancements in intuitive and accessible UAV control systems.
Construction of Robot Drilling System for Large Scale Workpiece Based on Offline Programming
Authors: Sekioka Masataka , Kato Daiki , Takeuchi Ayumu , Uchino Tomohiro , Nakagawa Masao , Hirogaki Toshiki , Aoyama Eiichi
Published: August 2024

In recent years, industrial robots have been introduced to various production sites through teaching playback, enabling more efficient assembly lines and welding lines for large workpieces in automotive and other industries. Furthermore, offline programming is expected to be utilized for cutting workpieces that are becoming even larger in the next-generation EV giga-cast and construction industries. However, the machining accuracy of robots, in terms of motion accuracy, is lower than that of machine tools, and their low rigidity causes vibration. Therefore, in this study, we attempt to construct a system for the practical cutting of large workpieces by attaching a DC brushless motor controlled by a single-board computer and drill to the end-effector of a large industrial robot and examining the basic characteristics of this system. The relationship between the rotational speed and duty ratio of the pulse width modulation voltage is clarified, and the range where the rotation speed is stable is found such that any rotation speed can be output. It is also clarified that the mechanical time constant of the rotational speed of the motor changes when the temperature of the motor spindle changes.
Design Optimization and Visualization of the Scope of Influence on Requirement Changes Using Systems Modeling Language
Authors: Nakano Ryosuke , Iwata Yoshiharu , Wakamatsu Hidefumi
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the design optimization of large and complex systems has surpassed human capabilities, making visualization and optimization through modeling languages increasingly critical. However, conventional methods fail to connect design intent with optimization information adequately, complicating correcting optimization issues when requirements change. To address this challenge, we propose a diagram that links requirements with optimization information and another diagram that visualizes the impact of requirement changes using the SysML modeling language. We have verified the effectiveness of these diagrams through a case study.
Mites of the genus Tarsonemus Canestrini & Fanzago associated with the fruit of Cocos nucifera L. with description of two new species
Authors: Vieira França Beltrao Girleide , Feitosa Araújo Isaac , Carlos Lofego Antônio , Guedes Correa Gondim Junior Manoel
Published: August 2024

The family Tarsonemidae comprises 51 genera, some of which have been reported on coconut palms, including Fungitarsonemus De Leon, Nasutitarsonemus Beer & Nucifora, Steneotarsonemus Beer and Tarsonemus Canestrini & Fanzago. The genus Tarsonemus consists of approximately 280 species, with only 11 reported in Brazil. During collections of Cocos nucifera L. fruit on the Brazilian coast, four Tarsonemus species were found associated with the perianth of these fruits. Two new species are described, Tarsonemus arrudai França, Araújo & Lofego sp. nov., and T. litoralis França, Araújo & Lofego sp. nov. while the other two species, Tarsonemus pseudokennedyi Ochoa and T. lenticulatus Gheblealivand, Haddad & Magowski, were found for the first time in Brazil, and both are redescribed based on males and females.
Commonly Used Indicators of Low Energy Availability Risk Fail to Identify Female Amateur Soccer Players With Measured Low Energy Availability During Preseason
Authors: Frazer Rebekka , Bowler Amy-Lee , Condo Dominique , Cox Gregory , Pelly Fiona , Slater Gary
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to determine energy availability (EA) and within-day energy balance (WDEB) in female soccer players during preseason and also explored eating disorder risk and athlete food choice. We hypothesized commonly used indicators of low energy availability (LEA) risk would correlate with measured EA and WDEB variables, and that food choice determinants would differ according to EA. Eleven National Premier League female soccer players participated in this observational cross-sectional study over 3 weeks. Assessment of resting metabolic rate and physique traits, including bone mineral density, was conducted during Weeks 1 or 3. During Week 2, dietary intake, energy expenditure, and continuous monitor-derived glucose were measured for 5 days. EA was calculated daily and WDEB calculated hourly with deficits/surpluses carried continuously. Questionnaires were administered throughout the 3 weeks, including the Athlete Food Choice Questionnaire, the Eating Disorders Screen for Athletes, and the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire. Resting metabolic rate ratio, bone mineral density, Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire, and Eating Disorders Screen for Athletes scores were used as indicators of LEA risk. EA averaged 30.7 ± 7.5 kcals·kg fat-free mass−1·day−1. Approximately one-third (36%) of athletes were at risk of an eating disorder, while approximately half (45%) were identified at risk of the female athlete triad via Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire, compared with approximately one-third (36%) of athletes identified with EA < 30 kcal·kg fat-free mass−1·day−1. No athlete achieved EA >45 kcal·kg fat-free mass−1·day−1, and no indicator of LEA risk was associated with calculated EA or WDEB. However, overnight glycemic variability was positively correlated with measured EA (r = .722, p = .012).
A p62-dependent rheostat dictates micronuclei catastrophe and chromosome rearrangements
Authors: Martin Sara , Scorzoni Simone , Cordone Sara , Mazzagatti Alice , Beznoussenko Galina V. , Gunn Amanda L. , Di Bona Melody , Eliezer Yonatan , Leor Gil , Ben-Yishay Tal , Loffreda Alessia , Cancila Valeria , Rainone Maria Chiara , Ippolito Marica Rosaria , Martis Valentino , Bedin Fabio , Garrè Massimiliano , Vaites Laura Pontano , Vasapolli Paolo , Polo Simona , Parazzoli Dario , Tripodo Claudio , Mironov Alexander A. , Cuomo Alessandro , Ben-David Uri , Bakhoum Samuel F. , Hatch Emily M. , Ly Peter , Santaguida Stefano
Published: August 2024

Chromosomal instability (CIN) generates micronuclei—aberrant extranuclear structures that catalyze the acquisition of complex chromosomal rearrangements present in cancer. Micronuclei are characterized by persistent DNA damage and catastrophic nuclear envelope collapse, which exposes DNA to the cytoplasm. We found that the autophagic receptor p62/SQSTM1 modulates micronuclear stability, influencing chromosome fragmentation and rearrangements. Mechanistically, proximity of micronuclei to mitochondria led to oxidation-driven homo-oligomerization of p62, limiting endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT)–dependent micronuclear envelope repair by triggering autophagic degradation. We also found that p62 levels correlate with increased chromothripsis across human cancer cell lines and with increased CIN in colorectal tumors. Thus, p62 acts as a regulator of micronuclei and may serve as a prognostic marker for tumors with high CIN.
Underappreciated government research support in patents
Authors: Kwon Seokbeom
Published: August 2024

The ability of government to use patents for public benefit could be constrained
Tricking phages with a reverse move
Authors: Osterman Ilya , Sorek Rotem
Published: August 2024

An antiviral gene is absent in DNA but expressed by rolling circle reverse transcription
Protect the safety of researchers
Authors: Gerards Janneke
Published: August 2024

An accommodating and supportive environment is essential to conducting scientific research. Yet, in almost every country, researchers can experience harassment, threats, prosecution, or even violence for opinions they express or for their work in relation to high-profile issues. Although many international and regional reports on this issue are patchy in terms of comprehensiveness and representation, they reveal clear and worrying trends—namely, that researchers working in politically charged fields such as public health, climate, and sexual and reproductive rights are prone to threats to their safety. The scientific community must heighten awareness and catalyze change if science is to remain a bedrock of societal well-being.
Hot days or heat waves: A split over how to count heat deaths
Authors: La Vivian
Published: August 2024

Focusing on temperature extremes can galvanize policy changes but risks undercounting
Time of arrival during plant disease progression and humidity additively influence
Salmonella enterica
colonization of lettuce
Authors: Dixon Megan H. , Nellore Dharshita , Zaacks Sonia C. , Barak Jeri D.
Published: August 2024

The interplay between plant hosts, phytopathogenic bacteria, and enteric human pathogens in the phyllosphere has consequences for human health.
Salmonella enterica
has been known to take advantage of phytobacterial infection to increase its success on plants, but there is little knowledge of additional factors that may influence the relationship between enteric pathogens and plant disease. In this study, we investigated the role of humidity and the extent of plant disease progression on
S. enterica
colonization of plants. We found that high humidity was necessary for the replication of
S. enterica
on diseased lettuce, but not required for
S. enterica
ingress into the UV-protected apoplast. Additionally, the
Xanthomonas hortorum
pv. vitians (hereafter,
X. vitians
)
-
infected lettuce host was found to be a relatively hostile environment for
S. enterica
when it arrived prior to the development of watersoaking or following necrosis onset, supporting the existence of an ideal window during
X. vitians
infection progress that maximizes
S. enterica
survival.
In vitro
growth studies in sucrose media suggest that
X. vitians
may allow
S. enterica
to benefit from cross-feeding during plant infection. Overall, this study emphasizes the role of phytobacterial disease as a driver of
S. enterica
success in the phyllosphere, demonstrates how the time of arrival during disease progress can influence
S. enterica’s
fate in the apoplast
,
and highlights the potential for humidity to transform an infected apoplast into a growth-promoting environment for bacterial colonizers.

IMPORTANCE

Bacterial leaf spot of lettuce caused by
Xanthomonas hortorum
pv. vitians is a common threat to leafy green production. The global impact caused by phytopathogens, including
X
.
vitians
, is likely to increase with climate change. We found that even under a scenario where increased humidity did not enhance plant disease, high humidity had a substantial effect on facilitating
Salmonella enterica
growth on
Xanthomonas
-infected plants. High humidity climates may directly contribute to the survival of human enteric pathogens in crop fields or indirectly affect bacterial survival via changes to the phyllosphere brought on by phytopathogen disease.
Seneca Valley virus circumvents Gasdermin A-mediated inflammation by targeting the pore-formation domain for cleavage
Authors: Yin Hongyan , Zhao Zhenchao , Yan Ya , Yuan Ye , Qu Weiyu , Wang Haiwei , Zhu Cheng , Li Pingwei , Li Xin
Published: August 2024

Members of the gasdermin (GSDM) family are critical for inducing programmable pyroptosis by forming pores on the cell membrane. GSDMB, GSDMC, GSDMD, and GSDME are activated by caspases or granzyme, leading to the release of their autoinhibitory domains. The protease SpeB from group A
Streptococcus
has been shown to cleave and activate GSDMA-mediated pyroptosis. Meanwhile, African Swine Fever Virus infection regulates pyroptosis by cleaving porcine GSDMA (pGSDMA) via active caspase-3 and caspase-4. However, it is not known whether virus-encoded proteases also target GSDMA. Here, we show that residues 1–252 of pGSDMA (pGSDMA
1–252
) is the pore-forming fragment that induces lytic cell death and pyroptosis. Interestingly, Seneca Valley Virus (SVV) infection induces the cleavage of both pGSDMA and human GSDMA and suppresses GSDMA-mediated cell death. Mechanistically, SVV protease 3C cleaves pGSDMA between Q187 and G188 to generate a shorter fragment, pGSDMA
1–186
, which fails to induce lytic cell death and lactate dehydrogenase release. Furthermore, pGSDMA
1–186
does not localize to the plasma membrane and does not induce cell death, thereby promoting viral replication by suppressing host immune responses. These studies reveal a sophisticated evolutionary adaptation of SVV to bypass GSDMA-mediated pyroptosis, allowing it to overcome host inflammatory defenses.

IMPORTANCE

Gasdermin A (GSDMA) remains a protein shrouded in mystery, particularly regarding its regulation by virus-encoded proteases. Previous studies have identified human GSDMA (hGSDMA) as a sensor and substrate of the SpeB from group A
Streptococcus
, which initiates pyroptosis. However, it is not clear if viral proteases also cleave GSDMA. In this study, we show that a fragment of porcine GSDMA (pGSDMA) containing the first 252 residues constitutes the pore-forming domain responsible for inducing lytic cell death and pyroptosis. Interestingly, picornavirus Seneca Valley Virus (SVV) protease 3C cleaves both pGSDMA and hGSDMA, generating a shorter fragment that fails to associate with the plasma membrane and does not induce pyroptosis. This cleavage by SVV 3C suppresses GSDMA-mediated lactate dehydrogenase release, bactericidal activity, and lytic cell death. This study reveals how SVV subverts host inflammatory defense by disrupting GSDMA-induced pyroptosis, thereby advancing our understanding of antiviral immunity and opening avenues for treating GSDMA-associated autoimmune diseases.
Unveiling the importance of heterotrophy for coral symbiosis under heat stress
Authors: Martinez Stephane , Grover Renaud , Ferrier-Pagès Christine
Published: August 2024

Global warming endangers reef-building corals as they lose their photosynthetic symbionts, which limits their ability to feed autotrophically. Consequently, heterotrophy, the capture of zooplankton, can become crucial for the energy budget of heat-stressed corals. However, it is difficult to assess the extent of the heterotrophic contribution in corals, as well as the dynamics of nutrient exchange between the host and its symbionts. In this pioneering study, we employed a suite of isotopic markers, including
13
C- and
15
N bulk tissue isotope measurements, compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids (CSIA-AAs), and
13
C- and
15
N-labeled food incubations, to investigate nutrient acquisition and allocation in the coral
Stylophora pistillata
under controlled and heat-induced bleaching conditions. Bulk isotope values and inorganic carbon assimilation remained unchanged in the bleached corals compared to the control corals, overall indicating undisturbed autotrophic activity of the symbionts under heat stress. However, CSIA-AAs showed an increased dependence on heterotrophy for amino acid synthesis in both the host and the symbionts despite reduced assimilation of
15
N-labeled food. Overall, these results suggest that although
S. pistillata
reduces its assimilation of heterotrophic food under heat stress, the acquisition of amino acids by the coral host and symbionts still relies on heterotrophy. This study emphasizes the importance of using multiple indicators to gain a comprehensive understanding of coral nutrition. It shows that coral dependence on heterotrophy is not only associated with a decline in autotrophic availability. Rather, it demonstrates the ability of
S. pistillata
to adapt its utilization of food sources to the prevailing environmental conditions.

IMPORTANCE

This work highlights that every isotopic marker displays a piece of different information concerning the diet of the model coral
S. pistillata
. By combining all markers, we observed that although
S. pistillata
exhibited reduced heterotrophic assimilation under heat stress, amino acid acquisition and synthesis remained dependent on heterotrophy. The findings emphasize the adaptability of corals in utilizing different food sources, which is vital for their resilience and recovery in changing environmental conditions. This research underscores the complexity of coral symbiosis and highlights the need for multiple indicators to understand dietary dynamics comprehensively.
Characterization of genome-wide phylogenetic conflict uncovers evolutionary modes of carnivorous fungi
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Fan Yani , Deng Wei , Chen Yue , Wang Shunxian , Kang Seogchan , Steenwyk Jacob Lucas , Xiang Meichun , Liu Xingzhong
Published: August 2024

Mass extinction has often paved the way for rapid evolutionary radiation, resulting in the emergence of diverse taxa within specific lineages. The emergence and diversification of carnivorous nematode-trapping fungi (NTF) in Ascomycota have been linked to the Permian-Triassic (PT) extinction, but the processes underlying NTF radiation remain unclear. We conducted phylogenomic analyses using 23 genomes that represent three NTF lineages, each employing distinct nematode traps—mechanical traps (
Drechslerella
spp.), three-dimensional (3D) adhesive traps (
Arthrobotrys
spp.), and two-dimensional (2D) adhesive traps (
Dactylellina
spp.), and the genome of one non-NTF species as the outgroup. These analyses revealed multiple mechanisms that likely contributed to the tempo of the NTF evolution and rapid radiation. The species tree of NTFs based on 2,944 single-copy orthologous genes suggested that
Drechslerella
emerged earlier than
Arthrobotrys
and
Dactylellina
. Extensive genome-wide phylogenetic discordance was observed, mainly due to incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) between lineages. Two modes of non-vertical evolution (introgression and horizontal gene transfer) also contributed to phylogenetic discordance. The ILS genes that are associated with hyphal growth and trap morphogenesis (e.g., those associated with the cell membrane system and polarized cell division) exhibited signs of positive selection.

IMPORTANCE

By conducting a comprehensive phylogenomic analysis of 23 genomes across three NTF lineages, the research reveals how diverse evolutionary mechanisms, including ILS and non-vertical evolution (introgression and horizontal gene transfer), contribute to the swift diversification of NTFs. These findings highlight the complex evolutionary dynamics that drive the rapid radiation of NTFs, providing valuable insights into the processes underlying their diversity and adaptation.
Spatio-temporal copper prospectivity in the American Cordillera predicted by positive-unlabeled machine learning
Authors: Alfonso Christopher P. , Müller R. Dietmar , Mather Ben , Anthony Michele
Published: August 2024

Porphyry copper deposits contain the majority of the world’s discovered mineable reserves of copper. While these deposits are known to form in magmatic arcs along subduction zones, the precise contributions of different factors in the subducting and overriding plates to this process are not well constrained, making predictive prospectivity mapping difficult. Empirical machine learning-based approaches to this problem have been explored in the past but are hampered by the lack of comprehensive labeled data for training classification models.

Here we present a model trained using a semi-supervised positive-unlabeled (PU) learning algorithm, trained using only one set of labeled data: known deposit locations. Time-dependent and present-day mineral prospectivity maps created using the classifier show the past evolution and present-day state of porphyry copper mineralization in the American Cordillera, with several zones of high predicted prospectivity unrelated to any known deposits presenting potential opportunity for future exploration targeting.

Feature importance and partial dependence analysis shed light on the complex mechanisms behind porphyry copper formation, identifying thick arc crust, rapid convergence, and a sufficient supply of volatile fluids into the subduction system as the primary prerequisites for mineralization. Significantly different results between models trained on data from North or South America suggest the existence of extensive variety among porphyry copper provinces.

High values of performance metrics for North America, including receiver operating characteristic area-under-the-curve (ROC AUC), indicate that PU models are capable of exhibiting equal or better performance when compared to traditional classifiers. However, relatively poor metric scores for South American data demonstrate that model performance is not necessarily uniform across different tectonic settings and care should, therefore, be taken when applying the PU method to new areas. Nonetheless, the methods developed here are expected to be applicable to data-poor regions and time periods across the globe, potentially identifying many more potential targets for porphyry copper exploration.
Associations between growth, maturation and injury in youth athletes engaged in elite pathways: a scoping review
Authors: Parry Gemma N , Williams Sean , McKay Carly D , Johnson David J , Bergeron Michael F , Cumming Sean P
Published: August 2024

Objective

To describe the evidence pertaining to associations between growth, maturation and injury in elite youth athletes.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

Electronic databases (SPORTDiscus, Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE and Web of Science) searched on 30 May 2023.

Eligibility criteria

Original studies published since 2000 using quantitative or qualitative designs investigating associations between growth, maturation and injury in elite youth athletes.

Results

From an initial 518 titles, 36 full-text articles were evaluated, of which 30 were eligible for final inclusion. Most studies were quantitative and employed prospective designs. Significant heterogeneity was evident across samples and in the operationalisation and measurement of growth, maturation and injury. Injury incidence and burden generally increased with maturity status, although growth-related injuries peaked during the adolescent growth spurt. More rapid growth in stature and of the lower limbs was associated with greater injury incidence and burden. While maturity timing did not show a clear or consistent association with injury, it may contribute to risk and burden due to variations in maturity status.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that the processes of growth and maturation contribute to injury risk and burden in elite youth athletes, although the nature of the association varies with injury type. More research investigating the main and interactive effects on growth and maturation on injury is warranted, especially in female athletes and across a greater diversity of sports.
Impact of early caffeine administration on respiratory outcomes in very preterm infants initially receiving invasive mechanical ventilation
Authors: Zhao Yarui , Zhang Lidan , Zhang Mingtao , Li Shuai , Sun Xuemei , Sun Xiaolin , Yao Guo , Li Cong , Li Minmin , Song Chunyu , He Haiying , Jia Yongfeng , Jv Bing , Yu Yonghui , Zhu Yun , Wang Li
Published: August 2024

Objective

The guidelines recommend early caffeine administration for preterm infants requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation since earlier treatment is associated with better outcomes. The objective was to evaluate the impact of early caffeine therapy (within 24 hours after birth) on respiratory outcomes in very preterm infants who were initially receiving invasive mechanical ventilation.

Methods

This was an observation cohort study from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022 based on a database that was prospectively collected and maintained. Infants who initially received invasive mechanical ventilation were divided into two groups based on the timing of caffeine initiation: within the first 24 hours after birth (early) and within 48 hours of birth or later (late). Generalised linear mixed models with a random effect model for the centre were used to assess the impact of different caffeine initiation times on neonatal outcomes.

Results

Among the cohort of 9880 infants born at <32 weeks gestation, 2381 were eligible for this study (early initiation: 1758 (73.8%) and late initiation: 623 (26.2%)). For infants born at more than 28 weeks of gestation, the adjusted generalised linear mixed model showed that the duration of invasive mechanical ventilation was 1.34 (95% CI −2.40 to –0.27) days shorter and the incidence of moderate-to-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) was lower (adjusted OR 0.63; 95% CI 0.41 to 0.96) in the early caffeine group compared with the late caffeine group.

Conclusion

In very preterm infants who initially receive invasive mechanical ventilation, early administration of caffeine within 24 hours after birth can shorten the duration of invasive mechanical ventilation, reduce the incidence of moderate-to-severe BPD and improve respiratory outcomes. The very early initiation of caffeine treatment does not appear to be associated with any adverse outcomes.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR1900025234.
COVID-19 pandemic exacerbation of disparities in access to public abortion services in Mexico
Authors: Kravitz Elizabeth , Saavedra-Avendaño Biani , Darney Blair G
Published: August 2024

Background

We describe clients in Mexico City’s public abortion programme, Interrupción Legal de Embarazo (ILE), during the COVID-19 pandemic and test whether the pandemic exacerbated inequities in access.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study of all abortions in the ILE programme from 1 January 2019 to 30 June 2022. We compared patients from within and outside the Mexico City Metropolitan area (ZMVM) by pandemic stage (pre-, acute-, mid- and late-COVID periods) and assessed changes in client characteristics (adolescent age, education, weeks’ gestation) by place of residence (ZMVM vs outside the ZMVM) using linear probability models clustered on state.

Results

We included 45 031 abortions. The proportion of abortions to women who travelled from outside the ZMVM decreased from 6.5% pre-COVID to 4.4%–4.8% in in the acute, mid- and late-COVID periods. The adjusted probability of being an adolescent who travelled from outside the ZMVM dropped between pre-COVID (14.4%, 95% CI 12.7% to 16.1%) and mid-COVID (9.3%, 95% CI 7.9% to 10.7%). The proportion of abortions to women with a high school education stayed fairly flat among those travelling, while it rose among those residing in the ZMVM. The adjusted probability of presenting at 11 gestational weeks or greater was higher among women residing in the ZMVM in the pre-pandemic period; this flipped during all pandemic stages, with a higher probability of presenting at 11 weeks or greater among those who travelled from outside the ZMVM.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing disparities in who can access ILE services. To reduce inequities in access to essential health services, public sector abortion services should be made available in all Mexican states.
Tumor microenvironment biomarkers predicting pathological response to neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: post-hoc analysis of a single center, phase 2 study
Authors: Feng Tingting , Li Qian , Zhu Rui , Yu Chang , Xu Liwei , Ying Lisha , Wang Canming , Xu Weiming , Wang Jinchao , Zhu Jing , Huang Minran , Xu Chenyang , Jin Jiaoyue , Zhang Xiaotian , Lu Tingting , Yang Ying , Zhu Changbin , Chen Qixun , Su Dan
Published: August 2024

Background

Neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy has a promising effect on locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, reliable biomarkers robustly predicting therapeutic response are still lacking.

Methods

Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded pre-neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy biopsy samples from locally advanced ESCC patients were collected. Cohort 1 composed of 66 locally advanced ESCC patients from a prospective clinical trial (NCT04506138) received two cycles of camrelizumab in combination with nab-paclitaxel and carboplatin every 3 weeks. Cohort 2 included 48 patients receiving various types of immune checkpoint inhibitors with (nab-)paclitaxel and platinum-based chemotherapy as neoadjuvant therapy. Cohort 3 consisted of 27 ESCC patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment of toripalimab with chemotherapy and was used as the external validation dataset. Targeted RNA sequencing, immunohistochemistry for programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) imaging were performed.

Results

Integration of targeted RNA sequencing, PD-L1 immunohistochemistry, and mIF revealed a significant immune-suppressive microenvironment with higher neutrophil infiltration, enriched TGF-β, and cell cycle pathways in non-pathological complete response (non-pCR) patients. NK, activated CD4+T cell infiltration, interferon-gamma, antigen processing and presentation, and other immune response signatures were significantly associated with pCR. Based on discovered tumor microenvironmental characteristics and their closely related genes were screened. Consequently, a seven-gene neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy risk prediction signature (NCIRPs) model, was constructed. In addition to cohort 1, this model alone or with PD-L1-combined positive score (CPS) demonstrated a higher prediction accuracy of pathological response than PD-L1 CPS or other routinely used immune signatures, such as IFN-γ, in cohorts 2 and 3. Neither prognostic association nor correlation with response to chemoradiotherapy was observed in The Cancer Genome Atlas Program ESCC dataset or in ESCC patients in the neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy cohort (cohort 4).

Conclusion

The NCIRPs model that was developed and validated using treatment-naïve endoscopic samples from the largest ESCC neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy dataset represents a robust and clinically meaningful approach to select a putative responder for neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy in locally advanced ESCC patients.
Identification of Siglec-10 as a new dendritic cell checkpoint for cervical cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Congwen , He Lewei , Peng Jing , Lu Chong , Zhang Meng , Qi Xingling , Zhang Mingxing , Wang Yumeng
Published: August 2024

Background

The occurrence of chronic inflammation resulting from infection with human papillomaviruses is an important factor in the development of cervical cancer (CC); thus, deciphering the crosstalk between the tumor microenvironment and innate immune cells during the establishment of immune tolerance is vital for identifying potential treatment strategies.

Methods

Single-cell RNA sequencing data and primary tumor samples from patients with CC were used to evaluate the functional role of Siglec-10 on dendritic cells (DCs). Patient-derived tumor fragment platforms were used to examine the ability of Siglec-10 blockade to reinvigorate DC-mediate T-cell activation and tumor clearance.

Results

Here, we demonstrated that Siglec-10 is a prominent inhibitory checkpoint for DCs infiltrated in CC. CC epithelial cells use their aberrant surface sialylated structures to induce the transformation of conventional DCs into phenotypes characterized by low immunogenicity and high immunotolerance. Additionally, Siglec-10+DCs suppress the function of adaptive T cells via galectin-9 signaling to strengthen the immunosuppressive CC microenvironment. Disturbance of Siglec-10 signaling restored the DC-mediated tumoricidal response and increased adaptive T cells sensitivity to programmed cell death protein 1 inhibition.

Conclusion

Our study confirms the checkpoint role of Siglec-10 on DCs and proposes that targeting Siglec-10 may be a promising avenue for immunotherapy against CC.
Safe and effective use of the Celt ACD vascular closure device for rapid hemostasis following direct carotid puncture thrombectomy
Authors: Cooper James J M , Rho Kyungduk , Housley Steven B , Raygor Kunal , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: August 2024

A man in his early 70s presented to the emergency department about 3.5 hours after acute onset right sided hemiplegia and aphasia. CT angiography confirmed an acute occlusion of the M1 segment of the left middle cerebral artery and severe, but stable, dissection of the aortic arch and a large dissecting aortic aneurysm extending into the innominate artery and beyond into the descending aorta. The risk of aggravating existing aortic pathology while trying to navigate from a transfemoral or transradial approach was considered to be very high; therefore, the decision was made to proceed with direct carotid puncture for mechanical thrombectomy. The procedure was successfully completed, and the carotid puncture site was closed without issue using the Celt ACD vascular closure device (Vasorum, Dublin, Ireland). The patient recovered and was discharged home at his prestroke neurologic baseline 9 days later. Here we discuss the safe and effective use of this novel closure device in the setting of direct carotid puncture for neurointerventional procedures.
Incidence and outcomes of falls in an inpatient palliative care unit: a single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Stack Paul , Fischer Amanda , Good Phillip
Published: August 2024

Background

Falls are a significant concern in healthcare settings. While comprehensive strategies to prevent falls are employed in hospitals, there is a lack of information regarding falls within inpatient palliative care units.

Method

This retrospective cohort study analysed fall incidence, characteristics and outcomes in a metropolitan inpatient palliative care unit over a 1 year period. Falls were identified using the online incident reporting system and patient characteristics, fall risk assessment and prevention measures were obtained through the electronic patient records.

Results

During the study period, there were 61 falls by 51 patients out of a total of 525 admitted patients. The incidence of falls was 9.7% and the rate of falls was 5.8 falls per 1000 bed days for all admitted patients. Though more than half of falls resulted in no injury, 41% of patients with falls died within a week post-fall. Fall risk assessment was completed for 97% of patients at the time of the fall.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the understanding of falls in inpatient palliative care units. Fall risk assessment and prevention measures did not appear to alter the rate of falls among patients who fell. Fall prevention strategies need to be tailored to meet patient autonomy, end of life goals and maintain healthcare standards.
Analytic solutions of the DGLAP evolution and theoretical uncertainties
Authors: Simonelli Andrea
Published: August 2024

The energy dependence for the singlet sector of Parton Distributions Functions (PDFs) is described by an entangled pair of ordinary linear differential equations. Although there are no exact analytic solutions, it is possible to provide approximated results depending on the assumptions and the methodology adopted. These results differ in their sub-leading, neglected terms and ultimately they are associated with different treatments of the theoretical uncertainties. In this work, a novel analytic approach in Mellin space is presented and a new methodology for obtaining closed and exponentiated analytic solutions is devised. Different results for the DGLAP evolution at Next-Leading-Order are compared, discussing advantages and disadvantages for each solution. The generalizations to higher orders are addressed.
Relativistic generalized uncertainty principle for a test particle in four-dimensional spacetime
Authors: Tawfik Abdel Nasser , Alshehri Azzah
Published: August 2024

The generalized uncertainty principle provides a promising phenomenological approach to reconciling the fundamentals of general relativity with quantum mechanics. As a result, noncommutativity, measurement uncertainty, and the fundamental theory of quantum mechanics are subject to finite gravitational fields. The generalized uncertainty principle (RGUP) on curved spacetime allows for the imposition of quantum-induced elements on general relativity (GR) in four dimensions. In the relativistic regimes, the determination of a test particle’s spacetime coordinates, [Formula: see text], becomes uncertain. There exists a specific range of coordinates where the accessibility to [Formula: see text] is notably limited. Consequently, the spacetime coordinates lack both smoothness and continuity. The quantum-mechanical calculations of the spacetime coordinates are directly linked to their measurement through the expectation value [Formula: see text]. This expectation value is dependent on [Formula: see text], which is itself limited by a minimum measurable length [Formula: see text]. A crucial finding presented in this script is the existence of a lower bound for the Hamiltonian, which implies the stability of the quantum nature of spacetime. The direct correlation between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a significant discovery, suggesting a proportional relationship. The conjecture is made that the primary metric g carries all essential information regarding spacetime curvature and serves a role akin to the Jacobian determinant in general relativity. Moreover, the linear relationship between [Formula: see text] and the Planck length [Formula: see text] is established with a proportionality factor of [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the RGUP parameter. The discretization of spacetime coordinates results in the discontinuity of the test particle’s wavefunction [Formula: see text], leading to an unrealistic [Formula: see text]. It is also noted that the lower limit of [Formula: see text] is directly proportional to the fundamental tensor.
Structural, electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties of LaMO3 (M = Ga or In) cubic perovskites: DFT study
Authors: Selmani Y. , Labrim H. , Bahmad L.
Published: August 2024

In this work, we present theoretical calculations of the structural, electronic, optical and thermoelectric properties of the perovskite oxides LaMO3 (M = Ga or In) using density functional theory (DFT) with GGA–PBE approximation, as implemented in the ABINIT code. The cubic crystal structure of LaMO3 (M = Ga or In) compounds changes and its volume increases when the Ga atom is replaced by an In atom. In addition, negative formation energies suggest the thermodynamic stability of the studied compounds. Electron charge densities reveal an ionic bond between La and O, while the bond between M and O appears covalent. Electronic properties showed the indirect semiconducting behavior of LaGaO3 and LaInO3 perovskites. The calculated indirect bandgaps [Formula: see text] (R–[Formula: see text]) are found to be 3.34[Formula: see text]eV for LaGaO3 and 2.08[Formula: see text]eV for LaInO3. In addition, optical characteristics are determined in terms of real [Formula: see text]([Formula: see text]) and imaginary [Formula: see text]([Formula: see text]) parts of dielectric constant [Formula: see text], refractive index [Formula: see text], absorption coefficient [Formula: see text], reflectivity [Formula: see text], energy loss function [Formula: see text], optical conductivity [Formula: see text] and transmittance [Formula: see text] are also studied. Optical absorption of light energy has been observed in both the visible and ultraviolet ranges, increasing the importance of the studied materials for optoelectronic applications. Finally, the thermoelectric performance of LaMO3 (M = Ga or In) materials has been explored using the Boltzmann transport theory implemented in the BoltzTraP software package.
Classification of Rings Associated with the Genus of Clean Graphs
Authors: Ramanathan V. , Selvaraj C. , Altaf Aaqib , Pirzada S.
Published: August 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring (not necessarily commutative) with identity 1 and let [Formula: see text] be its clean graph. In this paper, we investigate the genus number of the compact Riemann surface in which [Formula: see text] can be embedded and explicitly determine all commutative rings [Formula: see text] (up to isomorphism) such that [Formula: see text] has genus at most two. It is shown that for any Artinian ring [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] is a projective graph if and only if [Formula: see text] is isomorphic to [Formula: see text]. Furthermore, we determine all isomorphism classes of commutative rings whose clean graphs have crosscap two.