bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal diet during breastfeeding in correlation to calcium and phosphorus concentrations in human milk
Authors: Bzikowska‐Jura Agnieszka , Wesołowska Aleksandra , Sobieraj Piotr , Michalska‐Kacymirow Magdalena , Bulska Ewa , Starcevic Isidora
Published: October 2022

Background

The impact of maternal diet on mineral concentration in human milk (HM) remains unclear. The main aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between maternal dietary intake and calcium and phosphorus concentrations in HM. Furthermore, we aimed to evaluate the intake of both minerals by exclusively breastfed infants.

Methods

HM samples were obtained from 30 mothers at 6–8 weeks postpartum. Each mother was asked to express pre‐ and postfeeding milk four times during a 24‐h period (6.00–12.00, 12.00–18.00, 18.00–24.00, 24.00–6.00). Maternal dietary assessment was based on a food frequency questionnaire and 3‐day dietary records. Analysed minerals were determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (NexION 300D ICP mass spectrometer, Perkin Elmer SCIEX).

Results

The mean concentrations of calcium and phosphorus in HM samples were 278.7 ± 61.0 and 137.1 ± 21.9 mg/L, respectively, maintaining 2:1 ratio by weight. The concentration of both minerals was correlated with each other (r = 0.632,p = <0.001). The infants' mean calcium intake was 149.53 ± 36.41 mg/L, and their mean phosphorus intake was 74.62 ± 19.41 mg/L. The risk of insufficient intake of calcium was reported in 60% of infants (n = 18). Spearman's/Pearson's correlation coefficients did not reveal any correlations between HM calcium concentration and maternal diet, contrary to HM phosphorus concentration, which was positively correlated with energy (r = 0.369,p = 0.045), total protein (r = 0.464,p = 0.01), calcium (r = 385,p = 0.036), phosphorus (r = 501,p = 0.005), niacin (p < 0.001) and pyridoxine (r = 382, 0.037) intake. However, in multivariable analysis we observed that maternal dietary intake of both minerals had a positive influence on their concentration in HM.

Conclusions

Maternal calcium and phosphorus intake influenced the concentration of both minerals in HM; however, the relationship was rather weak. In addition, we observed that calcium intake by most of the exclusively breastfed infants was insufficient to meet the recommended daily intake.
The influence of consumer behavior on the environmental footprint of passenger car tires
Authors: Hennequin Thomas , Huijbregts Mark A. J. , van Zelm Rosalie
Published: October 2022

Understanding the influence of consumer behavior on the life cycle of products can provide further insights into effective mitigation strategies. Here, we developed a stochastic model to quantify the influence of consumer behavior on midpoint and endpoint impacts of European passenger car tires. The life cycle included resource extraction, production, use, and end‐of‐life stages of a passenger car tire with a functional unit of driving 50,000 km. The combined influence of variability in the lifetime, rolling resistance, size and inflation pressure of the tire, and mass and engine efficiency of the car on a range of environmental footprints was assessed via Monte Carlo simulations. We found that differences in consumer behavior can change the environmental impacts of tires with a factor 1.6 to 2.1 (95th/5th percentile). Environmental savings over the life cycle of tires are effectively achievable by stimulating the use of smaller cars and fuel‐efficient tires with longer lifetimes. We found that a shift in consumer behavior specifically related to tires can result in mitigations of the tire's life cycle impacts ranging from 13% for human toxicity to 26% for climate change. Our findings show that a detailed variability analysis can provide case‐specific and realistic recommendations to mitigate environmental footprints.
Cyberbullying Among Asian American Youth Before and During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Patchin Justin W. , Hinduja Sameer
Published: October 2022

PURPOSE

Early in the COVID‐19 pandemic, there was a concern that cyberbullying incidents would increase as youth were spending more time online. Additionally, reports emerged that Asian American citizens were being disproportionately targeted due to the purported origination of the disease. The current study explores whether cyberbullying incidents increased among adolescents overall—and Asian American youth in particular—since the onset of the coronavirus.

METHODS

Three unique national surveys of teens (aged 13–17, mean = 14.96) conducted in 2016 (N = 4742), 2019 (N = 4250), and 2021 (N = 2546) were analyzed to track experience over time with general cyberbullying, as well as cyberbullying based on race or color. Additionally, respondents were asked in 2021 whether they had been cyberbullied more or less since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

RESULTS

More youth have experienced cyberbullying since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic, with Asian American youth most likely to report increased victimization during the pandemic. For example, in 2021, 23.2% of youth reported experiencing cyberbullying compared to 17.2% in 2019 and 16.7% in 2016. Among Asian American youth, 23.5% said they were cyberbullied because of their race in 2021, compared to 7.4% in 2019 and 13.9% in 2016.

CONCLUSIONS

As more adolescents continue to spend more time online, cyberbullying victimization may increase across all racial groups. In the current politicized environment, Asian Americans may continue to be targeted because of their race. Schools and communities should augment existing implementations and pedagogy with more population‐specific approaches that are culturally relevant, culturally sustaining, and that reflect the unique lived experiences of Asian American youth.

IMPLICATIONS AND CONTRIBUTION

The current study shows that more adolescents have experienced cyberbullying (both general and race‐based) since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The increase in race‐based victimization was highest among Asian American youth.
Bronchiectasis in children following kidney transplantation in New Zealand
Authors: Everitt Jacqueline , Mulholland Anna , Kim Vivian , Prestidge Chanel
Published: October 2022

Aim

Bronchiectasis is an acquired chronic respiratory condition with a relatively high incidence in New Zealand children. Bronchiectasis following kidney transplant has been reported internationally. This study aimed to identify the incidence rate of bronchiectasis following paediatric kidney transplantation. Secondary aims were to assess the impact on kidney allograft function and identify risk factors that might prompt earlier diagnosis.

Methods

Case control study of children who developed bronchiectasis following kidney transplant in New Zealand. All children who were transplanted during the 16‐year period from 2001 to 2016 were included. Each identified case was matched with two controls (children who did not develop bronchiectasis and received a kidney transplant within the closest time period to their matched case). Data were collected on baseline demographics, clinical variables, immunosuppression and allograft function.

Results

Of 95 children who had a kidney transplant during the specified time period, eight (8.4%) developed bronchiectasis at a median of 4 years post‐transplant. The mean incidence rate of bronchiectasis was 526 cases per 100 000 paediatric kidney transplant population per year. The majority of children were Māori or Pasifika ethnicity and lived in areas of greater socio‐economic deprivation. Immunosuppression burden and allograft function were not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions

The incidence rate of bronchiectasis following paediatric kidney transplantation is substantially higher than the baseline paediatric incidence rate in New Zealand. A high index of suspicion for bronchiectasis and prompt investigation of children post kidney transplantation with a history of recurrent lower respiratory tract infection or chronic cough are advised.
In situ quantitative assessment of food oral processing parameters: A review of feasible techniques and devices
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Yu Shixin , Xu Yifei , Li Jiangyong , Liu Boyu , Liu Shikun , Ning Haohao , Xu Dongfu , Low Sze Shin
Published: October 2022

Oral processing is a combination of various actions, the detailed description of which has always been the subject of relevant research. By means of imaging technology and sensory evaluation, more knowledge of oral processing have been accumulated. Presently, the advances in sensory technology have added quantitative parameters to the qualitative description of oral processing, which also enriched the specifics of each action. Previous studies have shown that oral processing includes lip closure, dental occlusion, masticatory muscles activity, tongue movement, and swallowing, whose processing contains rich information such as the movement of organ and the intensity of organ contacts. “Quantification” was taken in this review as the basic feature of in situ detection information, the relevant parameters and feasible methods for the quantitative description of each activity was recorded in detail. In addition, basic problems and feasible optimization schemes of the existing in situ detection device are also proposed in the hope of promoting the development of in situ detection device thus providing available information for the description of oral processing.
Phylogenetically under‐dispersed gut microbiomes are not correlated with host genomic heterozygosity in a genetically diverse reptile community
Authors: Holmes Iris A. , Grundler Michael C.
Published: October 2022

While key elements of fitness in vertebrate animals are impacted by their microbiomes, the host genetic characteristics that factor into microbiome composition are not fully understood. Here, we correlate host genomic heterozygosity and gut microbiome phylogenetic diversity across a community of reptiles in southwestern New Mexico to test hypotheses about the behaviour of host genes that drive microbiome assembly. We find that microbiome communities are phylogenetically under‐dispersed relative to random expectations, and that host heterozygosity is not correlated with microbiome diversity. Our analyses reinforce results from functional genomic work that identify conserved host immune and nonimmune genes as key players in microbiome assembly, rather than gene families that rely on heterozygosity for their function.
Clinicopathological features of progressive supranuclear palsy with asymmetrical atrophy of the superior cerebellar peduncle
Authors: Koizumi Ryuichi , Akagi Akio , Riku Yuichi , Sone Jun , Miyahara Hiroaki , Tanaka Fumiaki , Yoshida Mari , Iwasaki Yasushi
Published: October 2022

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) can be diagnosed despite the presence of asymmetrical parkinsonism depending on the clinical diagnostic criteria. Some studies have reported that atrophy of the superior cerebellar peduncle (SCP) is more frequent in PSP than in Parkinson's disease. There have also been reports of PSP cases with an asymmetrically atrophic SCP. Therefore, we analyzed 48 specimens from consecutive autopsy cases that were neuropathologically diagnosed as PSP to investigate the laterality of brain lesions, including the SCP. We measured the width of the SCP and evaluated the laterality of atrophy. We semi‐quantitatively evaluated neuronal loss, atrophy/myelin pallor, and tau pathology in three steps. Asymmetrical atrophy of the SCP was present in seven (14.6%) of 48 cases. The atrophic side of the SCP corresponded to the dominant side of the tau pathology in the cerebellar dentate nucleus. It was opposite to the dominant side of the myelin pallor and tau pathology in the red nucleus and of the tau pathology in the central tegmental tract and inferior olivary nucleus, coinciding with the neurologically systematic anatomy of the Guillain–Mollaret triangle. Neurodegeneration of PSP can progress asymmetrically from one side to the initially intact side in PSP with an initial predominance of Richardson's syndrome, progressive gait freezing, ocular motor dysfunction, parkinsonism, or corticobasal syndrome. To our knowledge, no previous study has reported asymmetrical PSP neuropathology; this is the first study to report the presence of PSP cases with asymmetrical SCP atrophy and systematically asymmetrical degeneration of the Guillain–Mollaret triangle.
ZmASY1 interacts with ZmPRD3 and is crucial for meiotic double‐strand break formation in maize
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Shu‐Yue , Wang Ya‐Zhong , He Yan
Published: October 2022

During meiosis, recombination‐mediated pairing and synapsis of homologous chromosomes begin with programmed DNA double‐strand breaks (DSBs). In yeast and mice, DSBs form in a tethered loop–axis complex, in which DSB sites are located within chromatin loops and tethered to the proteinaceous axial element (AE) by DSB‐forming factors. In plants, the molecular connection between DSB sites and chromosome axes is poorly understood.

By integrating genetic analysis, immunostaining technology, and protein–protein interaction studies, the putative factors linking DSB formation to chromosome axis were explored in maize meiosis.

Here, we report that the AE protein ZmASY1 directly interacts with the DSB‐forming protein ZmPRD3 in maize (Zea mays) and mediates DSB formation, synaptonemal complex assembly, and homologous recombination. ZmPRD3 also interacts with ZmPRD1, which plays a central role in organizing the DSB‐forming complex. These results suggest that ZmASY1 and ZmPRD3 may work as a key module linking DSB sites to chromosome axes during DSB formation in maize.

This mechanism is similar to that described in yeast and recently Arabidopsis involving the homologs Mer2/ZmPRD3 and HOP1/ZmASY1, thus indicating that the process of tethering DSBs in chromatin loops to the chromosome axes may be evolutionarily conserved in diverse taxa.
Comparing Bone Graft Techniques for Interbody Fusion through a Posterior Approach for Treating Mid‐Thoracic Spinal Tuberculosis: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Jiang Dingyu , Sun Guannan , Jia Runze , Zhang Yilu , Wang Xiyang , Xu Zhenchao
Published: October 2022

Objective

Mid‐thoracic spinal tuberculosis is prone to kyphotic deformities and neurologic impairment. Posterior approach can effectively restore the spinal stability by reconstructing the anterior and middle spinal columns. Titanium mesh cages (TMC), allogeneic bone (ALB), and autogenous bone (AUB) are three main bone graft struts. We aimed to compare the therapeutic efficacy of three bone graft struts, for anterior and middle column reconstruction through a posterior approach in cases of mid‐thoracic spinal tuberculosis.

Methods

Hundred and thirty seven patients with thoracic spinal tuberculosis who had undergone a posterior approach from June 2010 to December 2018 were enrolled. Of them, 46 patients were treated using a titanium mesh cage (TMC group), 44 with allogenic bone grafts (ALB group), and 47 using autogenous bone grafts (AUB group). The following were analyzed to evaluate clinical efficacy: visual analogue scale (VAS) values, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels, kyphotic Cobb's angle, operation duration, intraoperative blood loss, improvement in American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grade and in the mental component summary (MCS) and physical component summary (PCS) of Short Form‐36 (SF‐36), duration of bone graft fusion. The data of the three groups were compared by way of variance analysis, followed by the LSD⁃t test to compare each group. A repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze the dates of pre‐, postoperative and final follow‐up.

Results

The follow‐up duration was at least 3 years. All patients achieved a complete cure for spinal TB. Neurological performance and quality of life were remarkably improved at the final follow‐up. The intraoperative blood loss, operation time and VAS values 1 day postoperatively for TMC group and ALB group were significantly lower than those in AUB group (P < 0.05). The duration of bone graft fusion in ALB group (18.1 ± 3.7 months) was longer than that in TMC group and AUB group (9.5 ± 2.8 and 9.2 ± 1.9 months) (P < 0.05). No significant intergroup differences were observed in terms of age or preoperative, 3‐months postoperative, and final follow‐up indices of ESR and CRP among the three groups (P > 0.05). At the final follow‐up, the correction loss was mild (2.1 ± 0.9, 2.2 ± 1.0, 2.1 ± 0.8) and Cobb's angles of the three groups were 20.1 ± 2.9, 20.5 ± 3.2, 20.9 ± 3.4, respectively, which were remarkably rectified in comparison with the preoperative measurements (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In terms of postoperative recovery and successful fusion rate of bone graft, it seems that posterior instrumentation, debridement, and interbody fusion with titanium mesh cages are more effective and appropriate surgical methods for mid‐thoracic spinal tuberculosis.
Cell wall ester modifications and volatile emission signatures of plant response to abiotic stress
Authors: Jardine Kolby J. , Dewhirst Rebecca A. , Som Suman , Lei Joseph , Tucker Eliana , Young Robert P. , Portillo‐Estrada Miguel , Gao Yu , Su Luping , Fares Silvano , Castanha Cristina , Scheller Henrik V. , Mortimer Jenny C.
Published: October 2022

Growth suppression and defence signalling are simultaneous strategies that plants invoke to respond to abiotic stress. Here, we show that the drought stress response of poplar trees (Populus trichocarpa) is initiated by a suppression in cell wall derived methanol (MeOH) emissions and activation of acetic acid (AA) fermentation defences. Temperature sensitive emissions dominated by MeOH (AA/MeOH <30%) were observed from physiologically active leaves, branches, detached stems, leaf cell wall isolations and whole ecosystems. In contrast, drought treatment resulted in a suppression of MeOH emissions and strong enhancement in AA emissions together with volatiles acetaldehyde, ethanol, and acetone. These drought‐induced changes coincided with a reduction in stomatal conductance, photosynthesis, transpiration, and leaf water potential. The strong enhancement in AA/MeOH emission ratios during drought (400%–3500%) was associated with an increase in acetate content of whole leaf cell walls, which became significantly 13C2‐labelled following the delivery of 13C2‐acetate via the transpiration stream. The results are consistent with both enzymatic and nonenzymatic MeOH and AA production at high temperature in hydrated tissues associated with accelerated primary cell wall growth processes, which are downregulated during drought. While the metabolic source(s) require further investigation, the observations are consistent with drought‐induced activation of aerobic fermentation driving high rates of foliar AA emissions and enhancements in leaf cell wall O‐acetylation. We suggest that atmospheric AA/MeOH emission ratios could be useful as a highly sensitive signal in studies investigating environmental and biological factors influencing growth‐defence trade‐offs in plants and ecosystems.
Two‐level trout supply chain's economic efficiency analysis in Iran: Trout egg import subsidies role
Authors: Asadikia Hiva , Mosavi Seyed Habibollah , Reed Michael R. , Bjorndal Trond , Najafi Alamdarlo Hamed , Khalilian Sadegh
Published: October 2022

Iran has subsidised trout egg imports due to the lower feed conversion ratio of most imported trout eggs. However, the rainbow trout industry is divided on whether to allocate or abolish imported trout subsidies. The elimination of such support would lead to a three‐fold rise in the price of imported trout eggs (which are already more expensive than domestic trout eggs). Furthermore, the economic performance of the domestic trout supply chain over the imported trout supply chain remains yet to be clarified. The present study seeks to evaluate whether imported trout egg subsidies should be continued. Economic efficiency and network data envelopment analysis are used to evaluate the performance and role of subsidies in trout supply chains in Mazandaran, one of the largest trout farming provinces as a new case study in the aquaculture sector, in 2018. Farms that used imported trout eggs were found to have lower economic efficiency and higher dependence on import subsidies. Feed costs were identified to be the most important explanation for poor economic efficiency of trout production. Finally, the results reveal that the development of domestic trout propagation supply chains with integrated forward vertical structures could improve efficiency in the system. The re‐distribution of imported trout egg subsidies to fund feed cost reduction technologies could provide effective solutions to enhance economic efficiency, production sustainability and food security.
Propagation of porcine spermatogonial stem cells in serum‐free culture conditions using knockout serum replacement
Authors: Das Arpana , Bhuyan Dipak , Lalmalsawma Timothy , Das Partha Pratim , Koushik Simanta , Chauhan Manmohan Singh , Bhuyan Mandakranta
Published: October 2022

In vitro culture and expansion of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is an essential prerequisite to enhancing livestock productivity through SSC transplantation. Most of the culture media have been observed to be supplemented with serum. However, the use of serum in culture media may exert detrimental effects on SSC maintenance in vitro. An attempt was made to culture SSCs by replacing serum with 5% ‘Knockout Serum Replacement (KSR)’ in Doom pig (Sus domesticus), one of the valued indigenous germplasm of North‐East India. Testes from 7 to 15 days old piglets were used for isolation, enrichment and in vitro culture of putative SSCs using serum‐based and serum‐free culture media. The cells were characterized for SSC‐specific pluripotent markers expression by immunofluorescence staining and quantitative real‐time PCR. The diameter and number of SSC colonies were recorded on days 9, 20 and 30 of culture. Similar morphologies of the SSC colonies were observed in both serum‐based and serum‐free culture conditions. Colony diameter and colony number were non‐significantly higher in serum‐free than serum‐based media. The cells from both the culture conditions showed high alkaline phosphatase activity. The expression of SSC‐specific pluripotent markers was observed in immunofluorescence and quantitative real‐time PCR study. The present study revealed that SSCs from porcine species could be maintained in vitro for up to 30 days in serum‐free culture using 5% KSR, which is believed to be a promising protein source for improving livestock production, and health care along with their conservation.
Setting the stage for the restoration of anAnnona glabraswamp after exotic grass invasion
Authors: Sánchez‐García Edgar A. , López Rosas Hugo , Sosa Vinicio J. , Lindig‐Cisneros Roberto , Moreno‐Casasola Patricia
Published: October 2022

The expansion of cattle ranching in the coastal plain of the Gulf of Mexico is transforming freshwater swamps resulting in the reduction of swamps area and the introduction of invasive exotic grasses. This study seeks to determine the structure of the remaining population ofAnnona glabrain a grassland, evaluate vegetation and environmental conditions of the grassland, and determine the germination capability ofA. glabraunder different cover conditions of grass growth and two flood levels. The study area is a flooded grassland invaded byEchinochloa pyramidalisin central Veracruz, Gulf of Mexico. In the grassland, we censused and mapped the remaining individuals ofA. glabra. We sampled the vegetation and measured the physicochemical characteristics of the soil and water. To evaluate the effect of the invasive grass on the germination ofA. glabraseeds, we designed two greenhouse experiments: one (E1) under soil moisture at field capacity and another (E2) under flooded conditions. We found 312 remnant individuals. We recorded 31 plant species, most (72.7%) classified as aquatic/semiaquatic. The relative importance value was highest forE. pyramidalis,Mimosa pigra, andEleocharis mutata. BEST analysis did not detect significant correlations between vegetation and physicochemical variables, indicating homogeneous environmental conditions. Seed germination was above 80% in E1 and below 20% in E2 in all grass cover levels. Although flooding decreases germination rates, substantial proportion of seeds can germinate, suggesting that natural succession is viable. Based on our results, the flooded grassland has conditions to restore swamp.
Split Lexical Insertion in Parasitic Gap Constructions*
Authors: Agbayani Brian , Ochi Masao
Published: October 2022

We propose to extend the feature movement theory (Chomsky 1995; Ochi 1999; Lasnik 1999, 2001; Agbayani 1998, 2000, 2006; Agbayani & Ochi 2006) by claiming that the separation of formal features (FF) from the rest of a lexical item occurs not only in syntactic movement but also in the course of lexical insertion. Applying this hypothesis to Parasitic Gap constructions, we argue that the FF and the rest of the lexical item are merged into the Parasitic Gap site and the real gap site, respectively. The split lexical insertion model straightforwardly accounts for the major properties of these constructions without appealing to sideward movement (Nunes 2001, 2004) or to additional assumptions about the featural content of the split portions of the lexical item under fission (Assmann 2012/Himmelreich 2017). An interesting result of this proposal is that it places parasitic gap constructions under a general theory of movement and lexical insertion.
The identification of two novel HLA alleles, HLA‐C*06:02:103 and HLA‐DRB1*01:139 in two Russian individuals
Authors: Loginova Maria , Smirnova Daria , Paramonov Igor
Published: October 2022

The novel HLA alleles HLA‐C*06:02:103 and HLA‐DRB1*01:139 were identified in two Russian individuals.
Humeral condylar fractures and fissures in the French bulldog
Authors: Anderson Oliver J. , Langley‐Hobbs Sorrel J. , Parsons Kevin J.
Published: October 2022

Objective

To report the configuration, risk factors, fixation methods and complication rates after repair of humeral condylar fractures (HCF) in French bulldogs, and report the presence of humeral intracondylar fissures (HIF) in this population as a possible predisposing factor.

Study design

Retrospective clinical cohort study.

Sample population

Forty‐four elbows.

Methods

The medical records of dogs referred between January 2012 and December 2021 were searched for French bulldogs presenting with HCF. Signalment, fracture configuration, stabilization method and complication occurrence were obtained. Postoperative radiographs were assessed for implant positioning, and computed tomography (CT) scans were assessed for the presence and size of HIF in the contralateral elbow.

Results

Lateral humeral condylar fractures represented 28/44 (63.6%) of HCF in French bulldogs. Repair with a transcondylar screw (TCS) and Kirschner‐wire(s) (K‐wire) were 7.62 times more likely to result in a major complication (95% CI: 1.43, 21.89; p = .01) compared to other methods. All incidences (7/7) of TCS migration were within the TCS + K‐wire group. A HIF was identified in 18/31 (58.1%) dogs. Older animals were not significantly less likely to have a HIF than younger animals (p = .129).

Conclusions

Fracture stabilization with a TCS and K‐wire(s) was associated with an increased risk of major complications and migration of the TCS. A HIF was present in the contralateral elbow of over half of the French bulldogs where CT was available.

Clinical significance

A HIF may be a predisposing factor of HCF in French bulldogs. Alternative methods of stabilization to a TCS and K‐wire(s) should be used to reduce complication risk.
Beta inputs to motor neurons do not directly contribute to volitional force modulation
Authors: Zicher Blanka , Ibáñez Jaime , Farina Dario
Published: October 2022

Neural oscillatory activity in the beta band (13–30 Hz) is prominent in the brain and it is transmitted partly linearly to the spinal cord and muscles. Multiple views on the functional relevance of beta activity in the motor system have been proposed. Previous simulation work suggested that pools of spinal motoneurons (MNs) receiving a common beta input could demodulate this activity, transforming it into low‐frequency neural drive that could alter force production in muscles. This may suggest that common beta inputs to muscles have a direct role in force modulation. Here we report the experimental average levels and ranges of common beta activity in spinal MNs projecting to single muscles and use a computational model of a MN pool to test if the experimentally observed beta levels in MNs can influence force. When beta was modelled as a continuous activity, the amplitude needed to produce non‐negligible changes in force corresponded to beta representation in the MN pool that was far above the experimental observations. On the other hand, when beta activity was modelled as short‐lived events (i.e. bursts of beta activity separated by intervals without beta oscillations), this activity approximated levels that could cause small changes in force with estimated average common beta inputs to the MNs compatible with the experimental observations. Nonetheless, bursting beta is unlikely to be used for force control due to the temporal sparsity of this activity. It is therefore concluded that beta oscillations are unlikely to contribute to the voluntary modulation of force.

image

Key points

It has been previously proposed that beta (13–30 Hz) common inputs to a motor neuron pool may have a non‐linear effect in voluntary force control.

The needed strength of beta oscillations to modulate forces has not been analysed yet.

Based on computer simulations, we show that sustained beta inputs to a spinal motoneuron pool at physiologically reported levels have minimal effect on force.

Levels of sustained beta rhythmic activity that can cause a significant change in force are not compatible with experimental observations of intramuscular coherence in human skeletal muscles.
The role of connection in the efficacy of animal-assisted therapies: A scoping review
Authors: Beggs Sharron , Townsend Rob
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: There is an undeniable connection between humans and animals, with the relationship between the two being well documented across the centuries of history and storytelling.METHODS: This article outlines a scoping review of the literature and research exploring the history, efficacy, and currency of animal assisted therapies (AATs) as they have developed in recent decades within human services and social work programmes.FINDINGS AND IMPLICATIONS: Archaeological research suggests a mutualistic relationship has existed between canines and humans dating back 140,000 years evolving to deepened connections between animals and behaviourally modern humans including 15,000 years of animal domestication. These connections have generated relationships where animals both work for and with humans, assuming diverse roles ranging from service animal to companion pet, from livestock to live entertainment, from symbolic idol to science experiment and, as demonstrated in this article, as co-therapist or therapeutic medium in psychotherapeutic, human services and social work practice processes.
Defining, teaching, and practising diversity: Another hegemonic discourse?
Authors: Beaumont Susan , Kelly Stephanie , Smith Lee
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION: Respect for diversity is a primary principle of the social work profession; however, the term diversity has been critiqued as meaningless and is often linked with cultural competence. Gaps in terminology, education, and knowledge about how to practise diversity have been identified in health and social practice literature, while attempts to teach diversity have uncertain results. The research question guiding this master’s study was “What are the factors that inform Aotearoa social workers’ practice when engaging with diversity?”METHODOLOGY: Qualitative, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of four practising social workers to explore what informed their diversity practice. An inductive thematic analysis of the interview data was undertaken. Numerous themes and sub-themes were identified and grouped into seven thematic categories.FINDINGS: For research participants, the term diversity exists only in the discursive; and it “gets in the way” of practice. While acknowledging the importance of education and practice with Te Tiriti, participants could not seem to connect this knowledge with diversity and associated practices. The authors suggest that the definition of diversity for the purposes of social work education and competency frameworks requires a more critical approach: its associations with power, and its tendency to describe and classify otherwise complex, fluid, contextual identities. Aotearoa New Zealand social work education must also engage in critical analysis of monocultural, hegemonic discourse and power relationships through te Tiriti frameworks to prepare all students for practice with diversity in a bicultural context.
Loneliness and boredom in residential care
Authors: Panthi Myunik
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES: Older adults are more likely to experience loneliness and boredom in residential care. The purpose of this study is to extend the understanding of experiences of older adults in residential care and identify factors that residents believe contribute to loneliness and boredom. In addition, I aim to identify strategies used to cope with these experiences and provide recommendations to enhance the quality of life in residential care. 
METHODS: A phenomenological qualitative study was conducted through participant observation, in-depth interviews with 24 residents, and key informant interviews with 10 staff members. 
RESULTS: The findings emphasise the pervasiveness of loneliness and boredom despite facilities’ efforts to provide activities and support. Staff and family support helped to alleviate loneliness and boredom and participants employed individual coping strategies. 
DISCUSSION: Health professionals should recognise loneliness and boredom as issues in residential care and prioritise individual needs and preferences when designing activities.
Exemplifying Inclusive Excellence: How Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis Leads by Example in Kinesiology
Authors: Urtel Mark , Keith NiCole , Bahamonde Rafael E.
Published: October 2022

This article documents the highlights achieved by the Department of Kinesiology at Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis over the span of 25 years that culminated with their being awarded the Inclusive Excellence award as sponsored by the American Kinesiology Association. Furthermore, this journey was presented using the special issue focus on leadership. Presented experiences occurred within the typical faculty understanding of teaching, research, and service. Recognition was given to the university and campus that hosts this department as it related to the overall diversity and inclusion culture developed on the broader scale, as this is important to acknowledge. This journey could inform or inspire other similar units as they strive to enhance diversity and inclusive excellence in their respective institutions.
Upper cortical layer–driven network impairment in schizophrenia
Authors: Batiuk Mykhailo Y. , Tyler Teadora , Dragicevic Katarina , Mei Shenglin , Rydbirk Rasmus , Petukhov Viktor , Deviatiiarov Ruslan , Sedmak Dora , Frank Erzsebet , Feher Virginia , Habek Nikola , Hu Qiwen , Igolkina Anna , Roszik Lilla , Pfisterer Ulrich , Garcia-Gonzalez Diego , Petanjek Zdravko , Adorjan Istvan , Kharchenko Peter V. , Khodosevich Konstantin
Published: October 2022

Schizophrenia is one of the most widespread and complex mental disorders. To characterize the impact of schizophrenia, we performed single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) of >220,000 neurons from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of patients with schizophrenia and matched controls. In addition, >115,000 neurons were analyzed topographically by immunohistochemistry. Compositional analysis of snRNA-seq data revealed a reduction in abundance of GABAergic neurons and a concomitant increase in principal neurons, most pronounced for upper cortical layer subtypes, which was substantiated by histological analysis. Many neuronal subtypes showed extensive transcriptomic changes, the most marked in upper-layer GABAergic neurons, including down-regulation in energy metabolism and up-regulation in neurotransmission. Transcription factor network analysis demonstrated a developmental origin of transcriptomic changes. Last, Visium spatial transcriptomics further corroborated upper-layer neuron vulnerability in schizophrenia. Overall, our results point toward general network impairment within upper cortical layers as a core substrate associated with schizophrenia symptomatology.
Foraging complexity and the evolution of childhood
Authors: Pretelli Ilaria , Ringen Erik , Lew-Levy Sheina
Published: October 2022

Our species’ long childhood is hypothesized to have evolved as a period for learning complex foraging skills. Researchers studying the development of foraging proficiency have focused on assessing this hypothesis, yet studies present inconsistent conclusions regarding the connection between foraging skill development and niche complexity. Here, we leverage published records of child and adolescent foragers from 28 societies to (i) quantify how skill-intensive different resources are and (ii) assess whether children’s proficiency increases more slowly for more skill-intensive resources. We find that foraging returns increase slowly for more skill-intensive, difficult-to-extract resources (tubers and game), consistent with peak productivity attained in adulthood. Foraging returns for easier-to-extract resources (fruit and fish/shellfish) increase rapidly during childhood, with adult levels of productivity reached by adolescence. Our findings support the view that long childhoods evolved as an extended period for learning to extract complex resources characteristic of the human foraging niche.
Enhance seasonal amplitude of atmospheric CO
2
by the changing Southern Ocean carbon sink
Authors: Yun Jeongmin , Jeong Sujong , Gruber Nicolas , Gregor Luke , Ho Chang-Hoi , Piao Shilong , Ciais Philippe , Schimel David , Kwon Eun Young
Published: October 2022

The enhanced seasonal amplitude of atmospheric CO
2
has been viewed so far primarily as a Northern Hemisphere phenomenon. Yet, analyses of atmospheric CO
2
records from 49 stations between 1980 and 2018 reveal substantial trends and variations in this amplitude globally. While no significant trends can be discerned before 2000 in most places, strong positive trends emerge after 2000 in the southern high latitudes. Using factorial simulations with an atmospheric transport model and analyses of surface ocean
P
co
2
observations, we show that the increase is best explained by the onset of increasing seasonality of air-sea CO
2
exchange over the Southern Ocean around 2000. Underlying these changes is the long-term ocean acidification trend that tends to enhance the seasonality of the air-sea fluxes, but this trend is modified by the decadal variability of the Southern Ocean carbon sink. The seasonal variations of atmospheric CO
2
thus emerge as a sensitive recorder of the variations of the Southern Ocean carbon sink.
Shape-morphing into 3D curved surfaces with nacre-like composite architectures
Authors: Jin Lishuai , Yeager Michael , Lee Young-Joo , O’Brien Daniel J. , Yang Shu
Published: October 2022

Inhomogeneous in-plane deformation of soft materials or cutting and folding of inextensible flat sheets enables shape-morphing from two dimensional (2D) to three-dimensional (3D), while the resulting structures often have weakened mechanical strength. Shells like nacre are known for the superior fracture toughness due to the “brick and mortar” composite layers, enabling stress redistribution and crack stopping. Here, we report an optimal and universal cutting and stacking strategy that transforms composite plies into 3D doubly curved shapes with nacre-like architectures. The multilayered laminate exhibits staggered cut distributions, while the interlaminar shear mitigates the cut-induced mechanical weakness. The experimentally consolidated hemispherical shells exhibit, on average, 37 and 69% increases of compression peak forces, versus those with random cut distributions, when compressed in different directions. Our approach opens a previously unidentified paradigm for shape-conforming arbitrarily curved surfaces while achieving high mechanical performance.
Ultrasensitive and long-range transverse displacement metrology with polarization-encoded metasurface
Authors: Zang Haofeng , Xi Zheng , Zhang Zhiyu , Lu Yonghua , Wang Pei
Published: October 2022

A long-range, high-precision, and compact transverse displacement metrology method is of crucial importance in many research areas. Recent schemes using optical antennas are limited in efficiency and the range of measurement due to the small size of the antenna. Here, we demonstrated the first prototype polarization-encoded metasurface for ultrasensitive long-range transverse displacement metrology. The transverse displacement of the metasurface is encoded into the polarization direction of the outgoing light via the Pancharatnam-Berry phase, which can be read out directly according to the Malus law. We experimentally demonstrate nanometer displacement resolution with the uncertainty on the order of 100 picometers for a large measurement range of 200 micrometers with the total area of the metasurface being within 900 micrometers by 900 micrometers. The measurement range can be extended further using a larger metasurface. Our work opens new avenues of applying metasurfaces in the field of ultrasensitive optical transverse displacement metrology.
Identification of Small Molecules with Improved Potency against Orthopoxviruses from Vaccinia to Smallpox
Authors: Brown Lauren E. , Seitz Scott , Kondas Ashley V. , Marcyk Paul T. , Filone Claire Marie , Hossain Mohammad M. , Schaus Scott E. , Olson Victoria A. , Connor John H.
Published: October 2022

The genus Orthopoxvirus contains several human pathogens, including vaccinia, monkeypox, cowpox, and variola virus, the causative agent of smallpox. Although there are a few effective vaccines, widespread prophylactic vaccination has ceased and is unlikely to resume, making therapeutics increasingly important to treat poxvirus disease.
Lyssavirus P Protein Isoforms Diverge Significantly in Subcellular Interactions Underlying Mechanisms of Interferon Antagonism
Authors: Brice Aaron M. , Rozario Ashley M. , Rawlinson Stephen M. , David Cassandra T. , Wiltzer-Bach Linda , Jans David A. , Ito Naoto , Bell Toby D. M. , Moseley Gregory W.
Published: October 2022

Lyssaviruses, including rabies virus, cause rabies, a progressive encephalomyelitis that is almost invariably fatal. There are no effective antivirals for symptomatic infection, and effective application of current vaccines is limited in areas of endemicity, such that rabies causes ~59,000 deaths per year.
Efficacy of APX2039 in a Rabbit Model of Cryptococcal Meningitis
Authors: Giamberardino Charles D. , Schell Wiley A. , Tenor Jennifer L. , Toffaletti Dena L. , Palmucci Julia R. , Marius Choiselle , Boua Jane-Valeriane K. , Soltow Quinlyn , Mansbach Robert , Moseley M. Arthur , Thompson J. Will , Dubois Laura G. , Hope William , Perfect John R. , Shaw Karen Joy
Published: October 2022

Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is a fungal disease with significant global morbidity and mortality. The gepix Gwt1 inhibitors are a new class of antifungal drugs.
Draft Genome Sequences of Multidrug-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolated from River Water
Authors: Kassem Issmat I. , Hassan Jouman , Esseili Malak A. , Mann David , Osman Marwan , Li Shaoting , Deng Xiangyu
Published: October 2022

The spread of antibiotic resistance poses a critical challenge worldwide. Contaminated environments can become reservoirs, spreading antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genetic determinants of resistance to humans directly or indirectly. Here, we report the draft genome sequence, the resistome, virulence genes, and sequence types of seven multidrug-resistant
Escherichia coli
strains isolated from river water.
Complete Genome Sequence of Terrisporobacter glycolicus Strain WW3900, Isolated from Influent Wastewater at a Research Center with Multiple-Species Research Animal Facilities
Authors: Kim Sung Guk , Summage-West Christine V. , Reyna Mariela , Feye Kristina M. , Foley Steven L.
Published: October 2022

Terrisporobacter glycolicus
is an emerging obligate anaerobic pathogen. We report the 3.9-Mbp genome sequence of
T. glycolicus
strain WW3900, which was isolated from wastewater at a research center with laboratory animal facilities. The genome sequence predicted a biosynthetic gene cluster encoding an
S
-adenosylmethionine enzyme and other synthetic genes associated with potential antimicrobial producers.
Two Metalloproteases VdM35-1 and VdASPF2 from Verticillium dahliae Are Required for Fungal Pathogenicity, Stress Adaptation, and Activating Immune Response of Host
Authors: Lv Junyuan , Zhou Jinglong , Chang BaiYang , Zhang Yihao , Feng Zili , Wei Feng , Zhao Lihong , Zhang Yalin , Feng Hongjie
Published: October 2022

Verticillium wilt, caused by the notorious fungal pathogenV. dahliae, is one of the main limiting factors for agricultural production. Metalloproteases played an important role in the pathogenic mechanism of pathogens.
Burden of atrial fibrillation among adults with heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Agbor Valirie Ndip , Tianyi Frank-Leonel , Aminde Leopold Ndemnge , Mbanga Clarence Mvalo , Petnga Saint Just N , Simo Larissa Pone , Dzudie Anastase , Chobufo Muchi Ditah , Noubiap Jean Jacques
Published: October 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in adults with heart failure (HF) and summarise the all-cause mortality ratio among adult patients with coexisting HF and AF in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Setting

This was a systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional and cohort studies with primary data on the prevalence and incidence of AF among patients with HF and the all-cause mortality ratio among patients with HF and AF in SSA. We combined text words and MeSH terms to search MEDLINE, PubMed and Global Health Library through Ovid SP, African Journals Online and African Index Medicus from database inception to 10 November 2021. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate pooled prevalence.

Primary outcome measures

The prevalence and incidence of AF among patients with HF, and the all-cause mortality ratio among patients with HF and AF.

Results

Twenty-seven of the 1902 records retrieved from database searches were included in the review, totalling 9987 patients with HF. The pooled prevalence of AF among patients with HF was 15.6% (95% CI 12.0% to 19.6%). At six months, the all-cause mortality was 18.4% (95% CI 13.1% to 23.6%) in a multinational registry and 67.7% (95% CI 51.1% to 74.3%) in one study in Tanzania. The one-year mortality was 48.6% (95% CI 32.5% to 64.7%) in a study in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We did not find any study reporting the incidence of AF in HF.

Conclusion

AF is common among patients with HF in SSA, and patients with AF and HF have poor survival. There is an urgent need for large-scale population-based prospective data to reliably estimate the prevalence, incidence and risk of mortality of AF among HF patients in SSA to better understand the burden of AF in patients with HF in the region.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018087564.