bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Does the University Environment Relate to Student’s Physical Activity Patterns in Ireland
Authors: Murphy Joey , MacDonncha Ciaran , Murphy Marie H. , Murphy Niamh , Woods Catherine B.
Published: June 2024

Background: Identifying factors related to physical activity in university students can aid the development of health promotion interventions, but there is limited research regarding the influence of university environments. This study examined the relationship between level of provision for university environments that aim to promote physical activity and self-reported physical activity patterns of students. Methods: An environmental audit tool was completed by universities (n = 28) on the island of Ireland to acquire information about physical activity opportunities, resources, and supports offered. Students (N = 6951; 50.7% male; 21.51 [5.55] y) completed an online survey, providing responses about their active transport and recreational physical activity behaviors. Binary logistic regressions were used to examine the associations between environmental factors that support physical activity and clustered physical activity patterns, while controlling for gender, age, and university size. Results: Universities with a high provision for organizational structures and internal partnerships, indoor facilities, and sport clubs increase the odds of their students having more active physical activity patterns. Increased provision of investment and personnel was seen to have a mixed relationship with students’ physical activity engagement, highlighting the need to understand where resources are needed and not just increase them. Conclusions: It is important for universities to have adequate organizational structures with internal partnerships to understand how resources can be maximized to support physical activity engagement across the whole student population. University campuses hold the potential for increasing student engagement in physical activity, and these findings can help inform campus-wide initiatives that foster active student populations for improving overall long-term health.
G protein–coupled receptor endocytosis generates spatiotemporal bias in β-arrestin signaling
Authors: Tóth András D. , Szalai Bence , Kovács Orsolya T. , Garger Dániel , Prokop Susanne , Soltész-Katona Eszter , Balla András , Inoue Asuka , Várnai Péter , Turu Gábor , Hunyady László
Published: June 2024

The stabilization of different active conformations of G protein–coupled receptors is thought to underlie the varying efficacies of biased and balanced agonists. Here, profiling the activation of signal transducers by angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT
1
R) agonists revealed that the extent and kinetics of β-arrestin binding exhibited substantial ligand-dependent differences, which were lost when receptor internalization was inhibited. When AT
1
R endocytosis was prevented, even weak partial agonists of the β-arrestin pathway acted as full or near-full agonists, suggesting that receptor conformation did not exclusively determine β-arrestin recruitment. The ligand-dependent variance in β-arrestin translocation was much larger at endosomes than at the plasma membrane, showing that ligand efficacy in the β-arrestin pathway was spatiotemporally determined. Experimental investigations and mathematical modeling demonstrated how multiple factors concurrently shaped the effects of agonists on endosomal receptor–β-arrestin binding and thus determined the extent of functional selectivity. Ligand dissociation rate and G protein activity had particularly strong, internalization-dependent effects on the receptor–β-arrestin interaction. We also showed that endocytosis regulated the agonist efficacies of two other receptors with sustained β-arrestin binding: the V
2
vasopressin receptor and a mutant β
2
-adrenergic receptor. In the absence of endocytosis, the agonist-dependent variance in β-arrestin2 binding was markedly diminished. Our results suggest that endocytosis determines the spatiotemporal bias in GPCR signaling and can aid in the development of more efficacious, functionally selective compounds.
Arthropod prey type drives decomposition rates and microbial community processes
Authors: Bernardin Jessica R. , Gray Sarah M. , Bittleston Leonora S.
Published: June 2024

Microbial communities perform various functions, many of which contribute to ecosystem-level nutrient cycling via decomposition. Factors influencing leaf detrital decomposition are well understood in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, but much less is known about arthropod detrital inputs. Here, we sought to infer how differences in arthropod detritus affect microbial-driven decomposition and community function in a carnivorous pitcher plant,
Sarracenia purpurea
. Using sterile mesh bags filled with different types of sterile arthropod prey, we assessed if prey type influenced the rate of decomposition in pitcher plants over 7 weeks. Additionally, we measured microbial community composition and function, including hydrolytic enzyme activity and carbon substrate use. When comparing decomposition rates, we found that ant and beetle prey with higher exoskeleton content lost less mass compared with fly prey. We observed the highest protease activity in the fly treatment, which had the lowest exoskeleton content. Additionally, we saw differences in the pH of the pitcher fluid, driven by the ant treatment which had the lowest pH. According to our results from 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding, prey treatments with the highest bacterial amplicon sequence variant (ASV) richness (ant and beetle) were associated with prey that lost a lower proportion of mass over the 7 weeks. Overall, arthropod detritus provides unique nutrient sources to decomposer communities, with different prey influencing microbial hydrolytic enzyme activity and composition.

IMPORTANCE

Microbial communities play pivotal roles in nutrient cycling via decomposition and nutrient transformation; however, it is often unclear how different substrates influence microbial activity and community composition. Our study highlights how different types of insects influence decomposition and, in turn, microbial composition and function. We use the aquatic pools found in a carnivorous pitcher plant as small, discrete ecosystems that we can manipulate and study independently. We find that some insect prey (flies) breaks down faster than others (beetles or ants) likely because flies contain more things that are easy for microbes to eat and derive essential nutrients from. This is also reflected in higher enzyme activity in the microbes decomposing the flies. Our work bridges a knowledge gap about how different substrates affect microbial decomposition, contributing to the broader understanding of ecosystem function in a nutrient cycling context.
The
Xenorhabdus nematophila
LrhA transcriptional regulator modulates production of γ-keto-
N
-acyl amides with inhibitory activity against mutualistic host nematode egg hatching
Authors: Lam Yick Chong , Hamchand Randy , Mucci Nicholas C. , Kauffman Sarah J. , Dudkina Natavan , Reagle Emily V. , Casanova-Torres Ángel M. , DeCuyper Jessica , Chen Haiwei , Song Deguang , Thomas Michael G. , Palm Noah W. , Goodrich-Blair Heidi , Crawford Jason M.
Published: June 2024

Xenorhabdus nematophila
is a symbiotic Gammaproteobacterium that produces diverse natural products that facilitate mutualistic and pathogenic interactions in their nematode and insect hosts, respectively. The interplay between
X. nematophila
secondary metabolism and symbiosis stage is tuned by various global regulators. An example of such a regulator is the LysR-type protein transcription factor LrhA, which regulates amino acid metabolism and is necessary for virulence in insects and normal nematode progeny production. Here, we utilized comparative metabolomics and molecular networking to identify small molecule factors regulated by LrhA and characterized a rare γ-ketoacid (GKA) and two new
N
-acyl amides, GKA-Arg (
1
) and GKA-Pro (
2
) which harbor a γ-keto acyl appendage. A
lrhA
null mutant produced elevated levels of compound
1
and reduced levels of compound
2
relative to wild type.
N
-acyl amides
1
and
2
were shown to be selective agonists for the human G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) C3AR1 and CHRM2, respectively. The CHRM2 agonist
2
deleteriously affected the hatch rate and length of
Steinernema
nematodes. This work further highlights the utility of exploiting regulators of host-bacteria interactions for the identification of the bioactive small molecule signals that they control.

IMPORTANCE

Xenorhabdus
bacteria are of interest due to their symbiotic relationship with
Steinernema
nematodes and their ability to produce a variety of natural bioactive compounds. Despite their importance, the regulatory hierarchy connecting specific natural products and their regulators is poorly understood. In this study, comparative metabolomic profiling was utilized to identify the secondary metabolites modulated by the
X. nematophila
global regulator LrhA. This analysis led to the discovery of three metabolites, including an
N
-acyl amide that inhibited the egg hatching rate and length of
Steinernema carpocapsae
nematodes. These findings support the notion that
X. nematophila
LrhA influences the symbiosis between
X. nematophila
and
S. carpocapsae
through
N
-acyl amide signaling. A deeper understanding of the regulatory hierarchy of these natural products could contribute to a better comprehension of the symbiotic relationship between
X. nematophila
and
S. carpocapsae
.
The laminin receptor is a receptor for
Micropterus salmoides
rhabdovirus
Authors: Luo Sheng , Liang Jiahui , Yang Guanjun , Lu Jianfei , Chen Jiong
Published: June 2024

Micropterus salmoides
rhabdovirus (MSRV) is an important pathogen of largemouth bass. Despite extensive research, the functional receptors of MSRV remained unknown. This study identified the host protein, laminin receptor (LamR), as a cellular receptor facilitating MSRV entry into host cells. Our results demonstrated that LamR directly interacts with MSRV G protein, playing a pivotal role in the attachment and internalization processes of MSRV. Knockdown of LamR with siRNA, blocking cells with LamR antibody, or incubating MSRV virions with soluble LamR protein significantly reduced MSRV entry. Notably, we found that LamR mediated MSRV entry via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Additionally, our findings revealed that MSRV G and LamR were internalized into cells and co-localized in the early and late endosomes. These findings highlight the significance of LamR as a cellular receptor facilitating MSRV binding and entry into target cells through interaction with the MSRV G protein.

IMPORTANCE

Despite the serious epidemic caused by
Micropterus salmoides
rhabdovirus (MSRV) in largemouth bass, the precise mechanism by which it invades host cells remains unclear. Here, we determined that laminin receptor (LamR) is a novel target of MSRV, that interacts with its G protein and is involved in viral attachment and internalization, transporting with MSRV together in early and late endosomes. This is the first report demonstrating that LamR is a cellular receptor in the MSRV life cycle, thus contributing new insights into host-pathogen interactions.
Acinetobacter nosocomialis
utilizes a unique type VI secretion system to promote its survival in niches with prey bacteria
Authors: Sun Yu , Wang Lidong , Zhang Ming , Jie Jing , Guan Qingtian , Fu Jiaqi , Chu Xiao , Chen Dong , Li Chunxiuli , Song Lei , Luo Zhao-Qing
Published: June 2024

Pathogenic bacteria of the
Acinetobacter
genus pose a severe threat to human health worldwide due to their strong adaptability, tolerance, and antibiotic resistance. Most isolates of these bacteria harbor a type VI secretion system (T6SS) that allows them to outcompete co-residing microorganisms, but whether this system is involved in acquiring nutrients from preys remains less studied. In this study, we found that Ab25, a clinical isolate of
Acinetobacter nosocomialis,
utilizes a T6SS to kill taxonomically diverse microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. The T6SS of Ab25 is constitutively expressed, and among the three predicted effectors, T6e1, a member of the RHS effector family, contributes the most for its antimicrobial activity. T6e1 undergoes self-cleavage, and a short carboxyl fragment with nuclease activity is sufficient to kill target cells via T6SS injection. Interestingly, strain Ab25 encodes an orphan VgrG protein, which when overexpressed blocks the firing of its T6SS. In niches such as dry plastic surfaces, the T6SS promotes prey microorganism-dependent survival of Ab25. These results reveal that
A. nosocomialis
employs T6SSs that are highly diverse in their regulation and effector composition to gain a competitive advantage in environments with scarce nutrient supply and competing microbes.

IMPORTANCE

The type VI secretion system (T6SS) plays an important role in bacterial adaptation to environmental challenges. Members of the
Acinetobacter
genus, particularly
A. baumannii
and
A. nosocomialis,
are notorious for their multidrug resistance and their ability to survive in harsh environments. In contrast to
A. baumannii
, whose T6SS has been well-studied, few research works have focused on
A. nosocomialis
. In this study, we found that an
A. nosocomialis
strain utilizes a contitutively active T6SS to kill diverse microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. Although T6SS structural proteins of
A. nosocomialis
are similar to those of
A. baumannii
, the effector repertoire differs greatly. Interestingly, the T6SS of the
A. nosocomialis
strain codes for an ophan VgrG protein, which blocks the firing of the system when overexpressed, suggesting the existence of a new regulatory mechanism for the T6SS. Importantly, although the T6SS does not provide an advantage when the bacterium is grown in nutrient-rich medium, it allows
A. nosocomialis
to survive better in dry surfaces that contain co-existing bacteria. Our results suggest that killing of co-residing microorganisms may increase the effectiveness of strategies designed to reduce the fitness of
Acinetobacter
bacteria by targeting their T6SS.
Genome sequences of two
Bacillus anthracis
strains utilized as veterinary vaccines in China
Authors: Lyu Yufei , Yu Shuo , Zhu Lingwei , Guo Yan , Yu Shujuan , Pan Chao , Zhu Li , Wang Hengliang , Wang Dongshu , Guo Xuejun , Liu Xiankai
Published: June 2024

In this report, we present the complete genome sequences of two
Bacillus anthracis
strains utilized as veterinary vaccines in China. The sequencing was conducted using a hybrid assembly methodology that combined Illumina short reads and PacBio long reads. This approach provides a high-quality representative sequence for the strains mentioned above.
Evaluation of the use of sonication combined with enzymatic treatment for biofilm removal in the microbiological diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection
Authors: Henríquez Lucía , Martín Carmen , Echeverz Maite , Lasa Íñigo , Ezpeleta Carmen , Portillo María Eugenia
Published: June 2024

Sonicating explanted prosthetic implants to physically remove biofilms is a recognized method for improving the microbiological diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection (PJI); however, chemical and enzymatic treatments have been investigated as alternative biofilm removal methods. We compared the biofilm dislodging efficacy of sonication followed by the addition of enzyme cocktails with different activity spectra in the diagnosis of PJI with that of the sonication of fluid cultures alone. Consecutive patients who underwent prosthesis explantation due to infection at our institution were prospectively enrolled for 1 year. The diagnostic procedure included the collection of five intraoperative tissue cultures, sonication of the removed devices, and conventional culture of the sonication fluid. The resulting sonication fluid was also treated with an enzyme cocktail consisting of homemade dispersin B (0.04 µg/mL) and proteinase K (Sigma; 100 µg/mL) for 45 minutes at 37°C. The resulting sonication (S) and sonication with subsequent enzymatic treatment (SE) fluids were plated for aerobic and anaerobic culture broth for 7 days (aerobic) or 14 days (anaerobic). Identification was performed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time-of-flight mass spectrometry (Bruker). We included 107 patients from whom a prosthetic implant had been removed, among which PJI was diagnosed in 36 (34%). The sensitivity of S alone was significantly greater than that of SE alone (82% vs 71%;
P
< 0.05). Four patients with PJI were positive after sonication alone but negative after sonication plus enzymatic treatment. The four microorganisms missed after the addition of the enzyme cocktail were
Staphylococcus aureus
, two coagulase-negative
Staphylococci,
and
Cutibacterium acnes
. In conclusion, sonication alone was more sensitive than sonication followed by enzymatic treatment. The combination of these two methods had no synergistic effect; in contrast, the results suggest that the combination of both dislodgment methods affects the viability of gram-positive microorganisms.

IMPORTANCE

While the potential of sonication and enzymes as biofilm dispersal agents has been previously described, the originality of our work resides in the combination of both methods, which is hypothesized to enhance the ability to remove biofilm and, therefore, improve the microbiological diagnosis of PJI
Evaluation of coccidia DNA in irrigation pond water and wastewater sludge associated with
Cyclospora cayetanensis
18S rRNA gene qPCR detections
Authors: Hofstetter Jessica , Arfken Ann , Kahler Amy , Qvarnstrom Yvonne , Rodrigues Camila , Mattioli Mia
Published: June 2024

The coccidian parasite
Cyclospora cayetanensis
is the causative agent for foodborne outbreaks of cyclosporiasis disease and multiple annual fresh produce recalls. The aim of this study was to identify potential cross-reacting species for the
C. cayetanensis
18S rRNA and MIT1C gene target real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays. The environmental samples evaluated were irrigation pond water, produce wash water, and wastewater treatment sludge from a previous study with qPCR detections of
C. cayetanensis
by the 18S rRNA gene target qPCR. From these samples, longer regions of the 18S rRNA gene and the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit III gene (
cox3
) were sequenced. Of 65 irrigation pond water samples with positive test results using the
C. cayetanensis
18S rRNA gene qPCR assay, none had MIT1C qPCR assay detections or sequences that clustered with
C. cayetanensis
based on sequencing of the
cox3
and 18S rRNA gene. Sequences from these samples clustered around coccidia sequences found in bird, fish, reptile, and amphibian hosts. Of 26 sludge samples showing detections by either qPCR assay, 14 (54%) could be confirmed as containing
C. cayetanensis
by sequencing of
cox3
and 18S rRNA gene regions. In three of the remaining sludge samples, sequenced reads clustered with coccidia from rodents. This study demonstrated that caution should be taken when interpreting qPCR
C. cayetanensis
detection data in environmental samples and sequencing steps will likely be needed for confirmation.

IMPORTANCE

Fresh produce is a leading transmission source in cyclosporiasis outbreaks. It is therefore essential to understand the role that produce-growing environments play in the spread of this disease. To accomplish this, sensitive and specific tests for environmental and irrigation waters must be developed. Potential cross-reactions of
Cyclospora cayetanensis
real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays have been identified, hindering the ability to accurately identify this parasite in the environment. Amplicon sequencing of the cox3 and 18S rRNA genes revealed that all irrigation pond water and two sludge samples that initially detected
C. cayetanensis
by qPCR were most likely cross-reactions with related coccidian organisms shed from birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and rodents. These results support that a single testing method for environmental samples is likely not adequate for sensitive and specific detection of
C. cayetanensis
.
A series of pyrimidine-based antifungals with anti-mold activity disrupt ER function in
Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Kelty Martin T. , Miron-Ocampo Aracely , Beattie Sarah R.
Published: June 2024

Fungal infections are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised populations. Moreover, fungal disease caused by molds are difficult to treat and are associated with particularly high mortality. To address the need for new mold-active antifungal drugs, we performed a high-throughput screen with
Aspergillus fumigatus
, the most common pathogenic mold. We identified a novel, pyrimidine-based chemical scaffold with broad-spectrum antifungal activity including activity against several difficult-to-treat molds. A chemical genetics screen of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
suggested that this compound may target the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and perturb ER function and/or homeostasis. Consistent with this model, this compound induces the unfolded protein response and inhibits secretion of
A. fumigatus
collagenases. Initial cytotoxicity and pharmacokinetic studies show favorable features including limited mammalian cell toxicity and bioavailability
in vivo
. Together, these data support the further medicinal chemistry and pre-clinical development of this pyrimidine scaffold toward more effective treatments for life-threatening invasive mold infections.

IMPORTANCE

Invasive fungal diseases are life-threatening infections caused by fungi in immunocompromised individuals. Currently, there are only three major classes of antifungal drugs available to treat fungal infections; however, these options are becoming even more limited with the global emergence of antifungal drug resistance. To address the need for new antifungal therapies, we performed a screen of chemical compounds and identified a novel molecule with antifungal activity. Initial characterization of this compound shows drug-like features and broad-spectrum activity against medically important fungi. Together, our results support the continued development of this compound as a potential future therapy for these devastating fungal infections.
Heat pulse–dominated magmatic storage: The 33 ka dacite dome eruption at Taápaca volcano (Central Andes)
Authors: Rout Smruti Sourav , Wörner Gerhard , Wegner Wencke , Singer Brad S.
Published: June 2024

We present 40Ar/39Ar ages of dacite domes and rare volcanic sanidine megacrysts from Taápaca volcano (northern Chile) that record 1.3 m.y. of activity. Our focus is on 20 megacrysts from a single 32.9 ka eruption. We interpret that their surprisingly correlated Ba-rich and Ba-poor growth zones separated by resorption surfaces reflect frequent heat pulses with a uniform thermal history over >300 k.y. of growth. We infer extended storage in small (<400 m), shallow “hot” domains within a larger magma system. Our findings bear on the origin of K-feldspar megacrysts in plutonic rocks, thus linking volcanic and plutonic processes in shallow silicic magma systems, and support protracted residence of hot magma in small batches at upper-crustal levels to produce megacryst-bearing granitoid intrusive complexes.
Origin, Phylogeny, and Taxonomy of Lenoks of the Genus Brachymystax (Salmonidae): Available Data, Their Interpretation, and Unresolved Problems
Authors: Osinov A. G.
Published: June 2024

The reproductive and phylogenetic relationships of lenoks of the genus Brachymystax are considered based on analysis of 30 allozyme loci and two fragments (411 and 987 base pairs) of the mitochondrial DNA control region. The presence of three phylogenetic lenok groups, the blunt-snouted and sharp-snouted groups from Russia and neighboring countries and the Qinling group from China and South Korea, has been confirmed. It is assumed that the center of origin of the genus Brachymystax was Primorye and the blunt-snouted lenok from this region is closest to the ancestral form. Modern assumptions on the taxonomic status of different forms of lenok are contradictory both in the number of species (from one to five) and in their composition. The identification of two or three species in the genus Brachymystax is most reasonable. The main problems that should be solved to clarify the phylogeny and taxonomy of representatives of this genus are indicated.
Predictions for functional outcome and mortality in acute ischaemic stroke following successful endovascular thrombectomy
Authors: Zeng Minyan , Smith Luke , Bird Alix , Trinh Vincent Quoc-Nam , Bacchi Stephen , Harvey Jackson , Jenkinson Mark , Scroop Rebecca , Kleinig Timothy , Jannes Jim , Palmer Lyle J
Published: June 2024

Background

Accurate outcome predictions for patients who had ischaemic stroke with successful reperfusion after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) may improve patient treatment and care. Our study developed prediction models for key clinical outcomes in patients with successful reperfusion following EVT in an Australian population.

Methods

The study included all patients who had ischaemic stroke with occlusion in the proximal anterior cerebral circulation and successful reperfusion post-EVT over a 7-year period. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox regression models, incorporating bootstrap and multiple imputation techniques, were used to identify predictors and develop models for key clinical outcomes: 3-month poor functional status; 30-day, 1-year and 3-year mortality; survival time.

Results

A total of 978 patients were included in the analyses. Predictors associated with one or more poor outcomes include: older age (ORs for every 5-year increase: 1.22–1.40), higher premorbid functional modified Rankin Scale (ORs: 1.31–1.75), higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (ORs: 1.05–1.07) score, higher blood glucose (ORs: 1.08–1.19), larger core volume (ORs for every 10 mL increase: 1.10–1.22), pre-EVT thrombolytic therapy (ORs: 0.44–0.56), history of heart failure (outcome: 30-day mortality, OR=1.87), interhospital transfer (ORs: 1.42 to 1.53), non-rural/regional stroke onset (outcome: functional dependency, OR=0.64), longer onset-to-groin puncture time (outcome: 3-year mortality, OR=1.08) and atherosclerosis-caused stroke (outcome: functional dependency, OR=1.68). The models using these predictors demonstrated moderate predictive abilities (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve range: 0.752–0.796).

Conclusion

Our models using real-world predictors assessed at hospital admission showed satisfactory performance in predicting poor functional outcomes and short-term and long-term mortality for patients with successful reperfusion following EVT. These can be used to inform EVT treatment provision and consent.
Effect of mode of delivery on incidence of retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sumual Vera , Sutanto Reynardi Larope , Chandra Angelina Patricia
Published: June 2024

Background

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of childhood blindness worldwide. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in ROP management. Thus, the identification of prominent risk factors could facilitate immediate action. Among various risk factors, the effects of mode of delivery on ROP remain unclear. Therefore, this study aims to assess the association between different modes of delivery on ROP incidence.

Methods and analysis

Comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed, ProQuest, EBSCOHost and Cochrane databases, to evaluate the association of mode of delivery—vaginal delivery or caesarean section (c-section)—and the incidence of ROP from inception to December 2023. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate the pooled OR along with their 95% CIs.

Results

This review included 5 cohort studies involving 2048 babies. A higher incidence of ROP was observed in infants born through vaginal delivery compared with caesarean section. Meta-analysis showed that C-section decreased the unadjusted odds of having ROP infants by 46% with low heterogeneity (OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.40 to 0.73); I2=40.73%). However, pooled adjusted effects were statistically insignificant with moderate heterogeneity (adjusted OR 0.59 (95% CI 0.28 to 1.23); I2=70.51%), possibly stemming from multiple variations in the controlled variables of each study.

Conclusion

Despite varying statistical significance, our findings underscore the crucial need to comprehend the influence of delivery mode on neonatal ophthalmic outcomes. Due to a limited number of existing studies, further research is needed to confirm the association.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023486278.
Caregiver perspectives on the long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with cerebral palsy in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Adams Skye Nandi , Bhorat Razina , Moosa Aneesah
Published: June 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated challenges faced by children with cerebral palsy (CP), including limited access to therapy services, financial strain and disruptions in schooling and social activities. However, the specific long-lasting impacts of the pandemic on families of children with CP in the South African context remain underexplored.

Aim

To explore the long-lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with CP in South Africa.

Method

A qualitative exploratory approach was used. 14 caregivers of 12 children with CP (aged 4–12) were recruited from various CP-specific schools and organisations in urban Johannesburg, South Africa. Individual semistructured interviews were conducted, and each interview was audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Children experienced significant changes to their physical and emotional well-being during the pandemic that had long-lasting effects on their added weight gain and activities of daily living. Many children experienced regressions during the lockdown due to the closure of schools and therapy centres. However, increased screen time observed among children with CP during the pandemic yielded unexpected positive outcomes, such as the improvement of technological skills and enhanced confidence through activities like vlogging.

Implications

The pandemic has had long-lasting impacts on children with CP and addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by children with CP and their families in the post-COVID-19 era requires coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to ensure the holistic well-being and inclusion of this vulnerable population. Further research is warranted to assess the long-term impacts of the pandemic and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at mitigating its effects on this vulnerable population.
Assessing feasibility and sex-related inequity in the cardiac rehabilitation quality indicators in Manitoba
Authors: Hay Jacqueline L. , McDonald Gerren K.D. , Pryce Robert , Giesbrecht Gordon G. , Boreskie Sue , Duhamel Todd A.
Published: June 2024

The cardiac rehabilitation quality indicators (CRQIs) developed by the Canadian Cardiovascular Society provide a means to standardize program assessment and identify sex-related inequities. No formal evaluation of the CRQIs has been conducted in Manitoba. An environmental scan for the CRQIs was performed using data in the electronic medical record at two cardiac rehabilitation (CR) sites in Winnipeg for 2016–2019 referrals. Of the 8116 referrals, 7758 (5491 males and 2267 females) had geographical access and were eligible for CR. The Manitoba Centre for Health Policy Data Quality Framework informed the data quality assessment. Thirteen CRQIs were available; four were considered high quality; nine demonstrated moderate to significant missing data. In addition to missing values, potential misclassification of risk (CR-4) and physiologically implausible and invalid dates were assessed and identified (CR-13 and CR-17). Each site had a physician medical director (CR-31) and a documented emergency response strategy (CR-32). Only high-quality data were evaluated for sex-related differences using chi-square and median tests. Women had lower enrollment (CR-3), and more women enrolled after the median of 41 days (CR-2b). Engagement with CR partners, including frontline staff, and utilizing strategies to assess and limit physiologically implausible values and dates will enhance data capture and quality.
Entanglement detection in postquench nonequilibrium states: thermal Gibbs vs. generalized Gibbs ensemble
Authors: Iglói Ferenc , Király Csaba Zoltán
Published: June 2024

We use entanglement witnesses related to the entanglement negativity of the state to detect entanglement in the XY chain in the postquench states in the thermodynamic limit after a quench when the parameters of the Hamiltonian are changed suddenly. The entanglement negativity is related to correlations, which in the postquench stationary state are described by a generalized Gibbs ensemble, in the ideal case. If, however, integrability breaking perturbations are present, the system is expected to thermalize. Here, we compare the nearest-neighbor entanglement in the two circumstances.

Graphical Abstract

Postquench states after a sudden quench protocol $$(h_0, \gamma ) \rightarrow (h, \gamma )$$

(

h
0

,
γ
)

→

(
h
,
γ
)

in the XY chain.
A generalization of photon sphere based on escape/capture cone
Authors: Amo Masaya , Izumi Keisuke , Yoshino Hirotaka , Tomikawa Yoshimune , Shiromizu Tetsuya
Published: June 2024

In general asymptotically flat spacetimes, bearing the null geodesics reaching the future null infinity in mind, we propose new concepts, the “dark horizons” (outer dark horizon and inner dark horizon) as generalizations of the photon sphere. They are defined in terms of the structure of escape/capture cones of photons with respect to a unit timelike vector field to capture the motion of light sources. More specifically, considering a two-sphere that represents a set of emission directions of photons, the dark horizons are located at positions where a hemisphere is marginally included in the capture and escape cones, respectively. In addition, our definition succeeds in incorporating relativistic beaming effect. We show that the dark horizon is absent in the Minkowski spacetime, while they exist in spacetimes with black hole(s) under a certain condition. We derive the general properties of the dark horizons in spherically symmetric spacetimes and explicitly calculate the locations of the dark horizons in the Vaidya spacetime and the Kerr spacetime. In particular, in the Kerr spacetime, the outer dark horizon coincides with the shadow observed from infinity on the rotation axis.
Reconstruction of electromagnetic showers in calorimeters using Deep Learning
Authors: Simkina Polina , Couderc Fabrice , Malclès Julie , Sahin Mehmet Özgür
Published: June 2024

The precise reconstruction of properties of photons and electrons in modern high energy physics detectors, such as the CMS or ATLAS experiments, plays a crucial role in numerous physics results. Conventional geometrical algorithms are used to reconstruct the energy and position of these particles from the showers they induce in the electromagnetic calorimeter. Despite their accuracy and efficiency, these methods still suffer from several limitations, such as low-energy background and limited capacity to reconstruct close-by particles. This paper introduces an innovative machine-learning technique to measure the energy and position of photons and electrons based on convolutional and graph neural networks, taking the geometry of the CMS electromagnetic calorimeter as an example. The developed network demonstrates a significant improvement in resolution both for photon energy and position predictions compared to the algorithm used in CMS. Notably, one of the main advantages of this new approach is its ability to better distinguish between multiple close-by electromagnetic showers.
Exploring wormhole solutions with global monopole charge in the context of f(Q) gravity
Authors: Tayde Moreshwar , Sahoo P. K.
Published: June 2024

This study explores the potential existence of traversable wormholes influenced by a global monopole charge within the f(Q) gravity framework. To elucidate the characteristics of these wormholes, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of wormhole solutions employing three different forms of redshift function under a linear f(Q) model. Wormhole shape functions were derived for barotropic, anisotropic, and isotropic Equations of State (EoS) cases. However, in the isotropic EoS case, the calculated shape function failed to satisfy the asymptotic flatness condition. Additionally, we observed that our obtained shape functions adhered to the flaring-out conditions under an asymptotic background for the remaining EoS cases. Furthermore, we examined the energy conditions at the wormhole throat with a radius $$r_0$$

r
0

. We noted the influences of the global monopole’s parameter $$\eta $$
η
, the EoS parameter $$\omega $$
ω
, and n in violating energy conditions, particularly the null energy conditions. Finally, we conducted a stability analysis utilizing the Tolman–Oppenheimer–Volkov (TOV) equation and found that our obtained wormhole solution is stable.
How does Casimir energy fall in $$\kappa $$-deformed space-time?
Authors: Harikumar E. , Shajesh K. V. , Panja Suman Kumar
Published: June 2024

We investigate the response of Casimir energies to fluctuations in a scalar field in the background of a weak gravitational field in $$\kappa $$
κ
-deformed space-time. We model the Casimir plates in a gravitational field by $$\kappa $$
κ
-deformed Rindler coordinates and calculate the Casimir energy using the $$\kappa $$
κ
-deformed scalar field. We show that the Casimir energy accelerates in a weak gravitational field like a mass. Thus, our calculations show that the mass–energy equivalence principle holds in $$\kappa $$
κ
-deformed space-time even though a length scale is introduced through space-time non-commutativity.
A C++ program for estimating detector sensitivities to long-lived particles: displaced decay counter
Authors: Domingo Florian , Günther Julian , Kim Jong Soo , Wang Zeren Simon
Published: June 2024

A series of far-detector programs have been proposed for operation at various interaction points of the large hadron collider during the upcoming runs. Investigating the potential and complementarity of these experiments for new-physics searches goes through the estimation of their sensitivity to specific long-lived particle models. Here, we present an integrated numerical tool written in the C++ language and called , which we have created to this end and which can be used in association with , , or any other state-of-the-art Monte-Carlo collider simulation tool. Several far-detector models have been implemented within the program, accounting for the geometry and integrated luminosity of projected detectors. Additional or more accurate designs can be easily constructed through a dedicated interface. The functionality of this tool is exemplified through the discussion of several benchmark scenarios, which we consider for the validation of the implemented detector models.
Does quark mixing play a role in the lepton sector?
Authors: Albergaria Francisco , Branco G. C. , Bastos José Filipe , Silva-Marcos J. I.
Published: June 2024

We suggest a simple relation between the quark and the lepton mixing within the framework of type-I seesaw mechanism. We show that within our ansatz the empirical King–Mohapatra–Smirnov relation, which suggests a connection between the CKM and PMNS mixing where $$|V^\text {PMNS}_{13}|\approx \sin \theta _C/\sqrt{2} $$

|

V
13
PMNS

|
≈
sin

θ
C

/

2

, can be derived. This is possible within a restricted region of the Dirac and Majorana mass parameters.
High resolution X-ray spectra of the time evolution of emission from metastable electronic states of highly charged Ni-like ions
Authors: Burke Timothy , Takacs Endre , Dipti  , Hosier Adam , O’Neil Galen , Tan Joseph , Staiger Hunter , Naing Aung , Marler Joan , Ralchenko Yuri
Published: June 2024

Metastable levels of highly charged ions that can only decay via highly forbidden transitions can have a significant effect on the properties of high temperature plasmas. For example, the highly forbidden 3d$$^{10}$$

10

$$_{J=0}$$

J
=
0

- 3d$$^9$$

9

4 s $$(\frac{5}{2},\frac{1}{2})_{J=3}$$

(

5
2

,

1
2

)

J
=
3

magnetic octupole (M3) transition in nickel-like ions can result in a large metastable population of its upper level which can then be ionized by electrons of energies below the ground state ionization potential. We present a method to study metastable electronic states in highly charged ions that decay by x-ray emission in electron beam ion traps (EBIT). The time evolution of the emission intensity can be used to study the parameters of ionization balance dynamics and the lifetime of metastable states. The temporal and energy resolution of a new transition-edge sensor microcalorimeter array enables these studies at the National Institute of Standards and Technology EBIT.

Graphical abstract

NOMAD calculated time evolution of the ratio of the Ni-like and Co-like lines in Nd at varying electron densities compared with measured ratios
Thorne–Żytkow objects with mirror neutron star cores?
Authors: Silagadze Zurab K.
Published: June 2024

A Thorne–Żytkow object can be formed when a neutron star is absorbed by the envelope of its giant companion star, spirals toward the center of the giant star due to the drag from the surrounding envelope, and merges with the star’s core. During in-spiral, dynamical friction is the main drag force acting on a neutron star inside the star envelope. However, dynamical friction is caused by the neutron star’s gravitational interaction with its own gravitationally induced wake. Therefore, exactly, the same gravitational drag force will act on a mirror neutron star, and if a significant part of the dark matter is in the form of mirror matter, then we expect the formation of Thorne–Żytkow objects with a mirror neutron star inside. We explore the plausibility of the existence of such exotic Thorne–Żytkow objects.
Synthesis and fluorescence property of a new Tb-based metal-organic framework
Authors: Yanlian Liu , Li Zhang , Zexing Su , Chengzhi Liu , Rongmei Wen
Published: June 2024

A new 3D Terbium (III) metal-organic framework has been solvothermally synthesized by using terbium ion as the metal center and 1,1[Formula: see text],1[Formula: see text]-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl-1,3,5-tri) trimethyl tritrium (4-carboxylpyridyl) tribromide (H3LBr3) as ligand. The molecular formula is [Tb(H3LBr3) (OH)2](NO3)●(DMAC)3. Compound crystallizes in the triclinic system, space group [Formula: see text], with [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]Å3, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/cm3, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mm[Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for 7586 observed reflections ([Formula: see text] (I)). Meanwhile, the fluorescence property was also studied. The result shows that the synthesized Tb-MOF displays highly selective sensing of acetone.
Analysis of Chinese Environmental Legal System and International Legal Frameworks on Supporting Green and Low-Carbon Development
Authors: UWAJAMBO Alice , GONG Xiangqian
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to analyze the Chinese legal system and international legal frameworks on supporting green and low-carbon development, one of the strategies adopted to achieve sustainable development while effectively addressing climate change. However, different projects and measures supporting green and low-carbon development may affect one another if legal and policy measures are not well established and implemented.

Globally, different international instruments highlight various commitments that guide the implementation of green and low-carbon development. At the domestic level, China has numerous plans and policies aimed at achieving these goals, and both international and domestic measures on green and low-carbon development are interdependent. This study found that China has different environmental laws that can advance green and low-carbon development.

However, these laws often lack specific references to “green and low-carbon development,” a phrase that appears primarily in policies. This gap may lead to a lack of coherence between those policies and the absence of specific institutions dedicated to these goals. This study recommends that specific laws can be enacted from different existing Chinese plans and policies to ensure a coherent and long-term framework for green and low-carbon development. With the existence of such a law, responsible institutions will be established, and the enforcement of policies and plans related to green and low-carbon development will be ensured.
The Landscape of User-centered Misinformation Interventions - A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Hartwig Katrin , Doell Frederic , Reuter Christian
Published: June 2024

Misinformation is one of the key challenges facing society today. User-centered misinformation interventions as digital countermeasures that exert a direct influence on users represent a promising means to deal with the large amounts of information available. While an extensive body of research on this topic exists, researchers are confronted with a diverse research landscape spanning multiple disciplines. This review systematizes the landscape of user-centered misinformation interventions to facilitate knowledge transfer, identify trends, and enable informed decision-making. Over 6,000 scholarly publications were screened, and a systematic literature review (
N=172
) was conducted. A taxonomy was derived regarding intervention design (e.g., labels, showing indicators of misinformation, corrections, removal, or visibility reduction of content), user interaction (active or passive), and timing (e.g., pre or post exposure to misinformation or on request of the user). We provide a structured overview of approaches across multiple disciplines and derive six overarching challenges for future research regarding transferability of approaches to (1) novel platforms and (2) emerging video- and image-based misinformation, the sensible combination of automated mechanisms with (3) human experts and (4) user-centered feedback to facilitate comprehensibility, (5) encouraging media literacy without misinformation exposure, and (6) adequately addressing particularly vulnerable users such as older people or adolescents.
Removal of SAT-Hard Instances in Logic Obfuscation Through Inference of Functionality
Authors: McDaniel Isaac , Zuzak Michael , Srivastava Ankur
Published: June 2024

Logic obfuscation is a prominent approach to protect intellectual property within integrated circuits during fabrication. Many attacks on logic locking have been proposed, particularly in the Boolean satifiability (SAT) attack family, leading to the development of stronger obfuscation techniques. Some obfuscation techniques, including Full-Lock and InterLock, resist SAT attacks by inserting SAT-hard instances into the design, making the SAT attack infeasible. In this work, we observe that this class of obfuscation leaves most of the original design topology visible to an attacker, who can reverse-engineer the original design given the functionality of the SAT-hard instance. We show that an attacker can expose the SAT-hard instance functionality of Full-Lock or InterLock with a polynomial number of queries of its inputs and outputs. We then develop a mathematical framework showing how the functionality can be inferred using only a black-box oracle, as is commonly used in attacks in the literature. Using this framework, we develop a novel attack that allows a SAT-capable attacker to efficiently unlock designs obfuscated with Full-Lock. Our attack recovers the intellectual property from these obfuscation techniques that were previously thought secure. We empirically demonstrate the potency of our novel sensitization attack against benchmark circuits obfuscated with Full-Lock.