bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstruction of biodiversity conservation by minimum patch size criteria
Authors: Riva Federico , Fahrig Lenore
Published: April 2023

Minimum patch size criteria for habitat protection reflect the conservation principle that a single large (SL) patch of habitat has higher biodiversity than several small (SS) patches of the same total area (SL > SS). Nonetheless, this principle is often incorrect, and biodiversity conservation requires placing more emphasis on protection of large numbers of small patches (SS > SL). We used a global database reporting the abundances of species across hundreds of patches to assess the SL > SS principle in systems where small patches are much smaller than the typical minimum patch size criteria applied for biodiversity conservation (i.e., ∼85% of patches <100 ha). The 76 metacommunities we examined included 4401 species in 1190 patches. From each metacommunity, we resampled species–area accumulation curves to evaluate how biodiversity responded to habitat existing as a few large patches or as many small patches. Counter to the SL > SS principle and consistent with previous syntheses, species richness accumulated more rapidly when adding several small patches (45.2% SS > SL vs. 19.9% SL > SS) to reach the same cumulative area, even for the very small patches in our data set. Responses of taxa to habitat fragmentation differed, which suggests that when a given total area of habitat is to be protected, overall biodiversity conservation will be most effective if that habitat is composed of as many small patches as possible, plus a few large ones. Because minimum patch size criteria often require larger patches than the small patches we examined, our results suggest that such criteria hinder efforts to protect biodiversity.
A systematic approach for transcatheter mitral valve edge‐to‐edge repair of isolated commissure prolapse
Authors: Seo Masahiro , Watanabe Tetsuya , Kikuchi Atsushi , Shirakawa Yukitoshi
Published: April 2023

Although transcatheter mitral valve edge‐to‐edge repair (TEER) has been widely used for non‐central degenerative mitral regurgitation (MR), few reports have described therapeutic strategies for commissure prolapse. Furthermore, no standard approach for TEER for commissure has established. Thus, we categorized various grasping strategies into three patterns, and proposed a promising systematic strategy to observe three possible grasping patterns for identifying appropriate grasping target. Here, we report a successful TEER case of isolated posterior commissure prolapse in which we used a systematic approach.
Potential response of dark carbon fixation to global warming in estuarine and coastal waters
Authors: Qi Lin , Zheng Yanling , Hou Lijun , Liu Bolin , Zhou Jie , An Zhirui , Wu Li , Chen Feiyang , Lin Zhuke , Yin Guoyu , Dong Hongpo , Li Xiaofei , Liang Xia , Liu Min
Published: April 2023

Dark carbon fixation (DCF), through which chemoautotrophs convert inorganic carbon to organic carbon, is recognized as a vital process of global carbon biogeochemical cycle. However, little is known about the response of DCF processes in estuarine and coastal waters to global warming. Using radiocarbon labelling method, the effects of temperature on the activity of chemoautotrophs were investigated in benthic water of the Yangtze estuarine and coastal areas. A dome‐shaped thermal response pattern was observed for DCF rates (i.e., reduced rates at lower or higher temperatures), with the optimum temperature (Topt) varying from about 21.9 to 32.0°C. Offshore sites showed lower Topt values and were more vulnerable to global warming compared with nearshore sites. Based on temperature seasonality of the study area, it was estimated that warming would accelerate DCF rate in winter and spring but inhibit DCF activity in summer and fall. However, at an annual scale, warming showed an overall promoting effect on DCF rates. Metagenomic analysis revealed that the dominant chemoautotrophic carbon fixation pathways in the nearshore area were Calvin‐Benson‐Bassham (CBB) cycle, while the offshore sites were co‐dominated by CBB and 3‐hydroxypropionate/4‐hydroxybutyrate cycles, which may explain the differential temperature response of DCF along the estuarine and coastal gradients. Our findings highlight the importance of incorporating DCF thermal response into biogeochemical models to accurately estimate the carbon sink potential of estuarine and coastal ecosystems in the context of global warming.
Spatial phylogenetics
Authors: Mishler Brent D.
Published: April 2023

The metric called phylogenetic diversity (PD) has been employed over the last 30 years to add an evolutionary dimension to the exploration of biodiversity. However, the application of PD was until recently limited by both technology and methodology. Newly available distributional data from global museum databasing efforts, rapidly increasing coverage of DNA sequence data and improvements to computer hardware and software have enabled a new ‘big data’ approach to the application of PD‐based metrics and randomization‐based hypothesis tests called ‘spatial phylogenetics’. It can be defined most simply as turning a phylogeny into a GIS layer, which can then be used with other GIS layers to understand drivers of phylodiversity patterns and for conservation prioritization. Alpha and beta phylodiversity can be measured using different ways of representing branch lengths on a given topology (called ‘facets’), each yielding a different, interesting perspective that are best viewed in combination. Challenges posed by available data need to be addressed through careful cleaning and gathering further data in a targeted manner. Spatial phylogenetics is only in its infancy, showing much promise but with many elements awaiting expansion to address further questions.
Evaluation of a family liaison officer role introduced during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A mixed methods study
Authors: Walsby Alex , O'Connor Louise , Best Stephanie , Williams Sharon J.
Published: April 2023

Rationale

The restrictions to hospital visiting for carers and relatives during the pandemic were unprecedented. To ensure patients could stay in touch with their relatives and carers new liaison roles were introduced.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this study is to report on the evaluation of a Family Liaison Officer (FLO) role to understand the rationale for introducing the role along with the challenges and benefits of its implementation.

Methods

A concurrent mixed methods design was used, triangulating both semi structured interviews and online surveys. Data were collected during 2021 from postholders, patients/relatives and key stakeholders.

Results

The family liaison officer role occupies a key brokering role between clinical teams and patients/relatives. All participants agreed the importance of the role particularly in relation to communication. Postholders noted issues around clarity of scope of practice. Patients reported the social benefits of the FLOs particularly in relation to technology. There was also key learning in terms of induction, training and line management of this nonprofessional role.

Conclusion

There is limited research that evaluates emerging nonprofessional roles that connect clinical teams and patients/relatives. This evaluation study although limited to one organisation provides important insights to the strategic and operational learning to introducing a family liaison officer role during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Advanced glycation end products for preoperative frailty screening in older cardiac surgery patients
Authors: Smoor Rosa M. , van Dongen Eric P. A. , Verwijmeren Lisa , Emmelot‐Vonk Mariëlle H. , Vernooij Lisette M. , Cremer Olaf L. , Noordzij Peter G.
Published: April 2023

Background

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are potential biomarkers of biological age. Skin Auto Fluorescence (SAF) can assess AGEs non‐invasively. We evaluated the association of SAF levels with frailty and its predictive ability for adverse outcomes in older cardiac surgery patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively acquired data from a two‐center observational cohort study. We measured SAF level in cardiac surgery patients aged ≥70. Primary outcome was preoperative frailty. A comprehensive frailty assessment was performed before surgery based on 11 individual tests assessing the physical, mental, and social domain. Frailty was defined as at least 1 positive test in each domain. Secondary outcome measures were severe postoperative complications and a composite endpoint of 1‐year disability (defined by WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0 (WHODAS 2.0) questionnaire) or mortality.

Results

Among 555 enrolled patients, 122 (22%) were frail. SAF level was most strongly associated with dependent living status (aRR 2.45 (95% CI 1.28–4.66)) and impaired cognition (aRR 1.61 (95% CI 1.10–2.34)). A decision algorithm to identify frail patients including SAF level, sex, prescription drugs, preoperative hemoglobin, and EuroSCORE II resulted in a C‐statistic of 0.72 (95% CI 0.67–0.77). SAF level was also associated with disability or death after 1 year (aRR 1.38 (95% CI 1.06–1.80)). The aRR for severe complications was 1.28 (95% CI 0.87–1.88).

Conclusions

Higher SAF level is associated with frailty in older cardiac surgery patients, as well as an increased risk of death or disability. This biomarker could potentially optimize preoperative risk stratification for cardiac surgery.
Using PDO threads: A scarcely studied rejuvenation technique. Case report and systematic review
Authors: Contreras Candelaria , Ariza‐Donado Amin , Ariza‐Fontalvo Amin
Published: April 2023

Background

Thread lifting procedures for facial rejuvenation have made great strides with the development of absorbable threads. Although they have gained fame among plastic surgeons and dermatologists, there have been very few studies published in scientific articles on the effects of absorbable threads in facial rejuvenation, as well as few studies published by aesthetic physicians. The most effective and efficient techniques to determine the adequate place to insert the reabsorbable thread, and the different ways to evaluate the effectiveness of these aesthetic procedures, are still unknown.

Objectives

This review aims to identify, in the scientific literature, the evaluation techniques for a safe and correct insertion of PDO threads in facial rejuvenation procedures.

Methodology

A review of scientific literature was performed using the following list of keywords, descriptors, or thesauri: PDO threads, aesthetics, facial rejuvenation. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were used for the literature search. Articles from years 2012–2022 were selected. The reference lists of the identified articles were included. (16) out of (35) articles associated with the topic were selected. Simple and compound searches were performed with the keywords and very few rigorous studies about the use of PDO threads for aesthetic procedures were found.

Results

Very few rigorous scientific studies on the use of PDO threads for facial rejuvenation procedures were found. There is a strong theoretical and methodological gap on this subject, and, also, on the evaluation techniques that could be used for the safe and correct insertion of the threads.

Conclusion

The bibliographic information found shows a huge theoretical and methodological gap in the subject of procedures for facial rejuvenation with PDO threads, as well as the techniques and tools employed to guarantee the correct insertion of the threads.
A challenge of deep‐learning‐based object detection for hair follicle dataset
Authors: Lv Wei , Chen Tao , Zeng Yifan , Liu Weihong , Huang Chuying
Published: April 2023

Background

Deep‐learning object detection has been applied in various industries, including healthcare, to address hair loss.

Methods

In this paper, YOLOv5 object detection algorithm was used to detect hair follicles in a small and specific image dataset collected using a specialized camera on the scalp of individuals with different ages, regions, and genders. The performance of YOLOv5 was compared with other popular object detection models.

Results

YOLOv5 performed well in the detection of hair follicles, and the follicles were classified into five classes based on the number of hairs and the type of hair contained. In single‐class object detection experiments, a smaller batch size and the smallest YOLOv5s model achieved the best results, with an map of 0.8151. In multiclass object detection experiments, the larger YOLOv5l model was able to achieve the best results, and batch size affected the result of model training.

Conclusion

YOLOv5 is a promising algorithm for detecting hair follicles in a small and specific image dataset, and its performance is comparable to other popular object detection models. However, the challenges of small‐scale data and sample imbalance need to be addressed to improve the performance of target detection algorithms.
Timing is everything: A connection between medulloblastoma prognosis and foetal cerebellar development
Authors: Williamson Daniel , Schwalbe Edward C. , Bailey Simon , Clifford Steven C.
Published: April 2023

The childhood brain tumour medulloblastoma is typically classified into multiple discrete molecular subgroups with characteristic DNA methylation and expression patterns. Several of these subgroups are used as, or proposed to be, an effective basis for treatment stratification. Here, we highlight the close connection between the findings described in a recent series of studies which, together, strongly imply a continuous association between survival outcome, the transcriptional profile of a Group3/Group4 (i.e. non‐WNT/non‐SHH) medulloblastoma and the specific point during early foetal cerebellar development at which initial pathogenic disruption took place. This has important implications for future efforts to model the disease by incorporating driving molecular features into their specific developmental context. This further suggests that instead of relying upon discrete DNA methylation subgroups, using expression biomarkers as the basis of a continuous risk predictor may produce a more effective risk stratification of patients with Group3/Group4 medulloblastoma.
Tuberous sclerosis complex‐1 (TSC1) contributes to selective neuronal vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Adriaanse Bryan A. , Brady Sinead , Wang Minghui , Beard Daniel J. , Spencer Jonathan I. , Pansieri Jonathan , Sutherland Brad A. , Esiri Margaret M. , Buchan Alastair M. , Cader Zameel , Zhang Bin , DeLuca Gabriele C.
Published: April 2023

Aims

Selective neuronal vulnerability of hippocampal Cornu Ammonis (CA)‐1 neurons is a pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) with an unknown underlying mechanism. We interrogated the expression of tuberous sclerosis complex‐1 (TSC1; hamartin) and mTOR‐related proteins in hippocampal CA1 and CA3 subfields.

Methods

A human post‐mortem cohort of mild (n = 7) and severe (n = 10) AD and non‐neurological controls (n = 9) was used for quantitative and semi‐quantitative analyses. We also developed an in vitro TSC1 knockdown model in rat hippocampal neurons, and transcriptomic analyses of TSC1 knockdown neuronal cultures were performed.

Results

We found a selective increase of TSC1 cytoplasmic inclusions in human AD CA1 neurons with hyperactivation of one of TSC1's downstream targets, the mammalian target of rapamycin complex‐1 (mTORC1), suggesting that TSC1 is no longer active in AD. TSC1 knockdown experiments showed accelerated cell death independent of amyloid‐beta toxicity. Transcriptomic analyses of TSC1 knockdown neuronal cultures revealed signatures that were significantly enriched for AD‐related pathways.

Conclusions

Our combined data point to TSC1 dysregulation as a key driver of selective neuronal vulnerability in the AD hippocampus. Future work aimed at identifying targets amenable to therapeutic manipulation is urgently needed to halt selective neurodegeneration, and by extension, debilitating cognitive impairment characteristic of AD.
Progress in vaccine development for infectious diseases—a Keystone Symposia report
Authors: Cable Jennifer , Graham Barney S. , Koup Richard A. , Seder Robert A. , Karikó Katalin , Pardi Norbert , Barouch Dan H. , Sharma Bhawna , Rauch Susanne , Nachbagauer Raffael , Forsell Mattias N. E. , Schotsaert Michael , Ellebedy Ali H. , Loré Karin , Irvine Darrell J. , Pilkington Emily , Tahtinen Siri , Thompson Elizabeth A. , Feraoun Yanis , King Neil P. , Saunders Kevin , Alter Galit , Moin Syed M. , Sliepen Kwinten , Karlsson Hedestam Gunilla B. , Wardemann Hedda , Pulendran Bali , Doria‐Rose Nicole A. , He Wan‐Ting , Juno Jennifer A. , Ataca Sila , Wheatley Adam K. , McLellan Jason S. , Walker Laura M. , Lederhofer Julia , Lindesmith Lisa C. , Wille Holger , Hotez Peter J. , Bekker Linda‐Gail
Published: April 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic has taught us many things, among the most important of which is that vaccines are one of the cornerstones of public health that help make modern longevity possible. While several different vaccines have been successful at stemming the morbidity and mortality associated with various infectious diseases, many pathogens/diseases remain recalcitrant to the development of effective vaccination. Recent advances in vaccine technology, immunology, structural biology, and other fields may yet yield insight that will address these diseases; they may also help improve societies’ preparedness for future pandemics. On June 1–4, 2022, experts in vaccinology from academia, industry, and government convened for the Keystone symposium “Progress in Vaccine Development for Infectious Diseases” to discuss state‐of‐the‐art technologies, recent advancements in understanding vaccine‐mediated immunity, and new aspects of antigen design to aid vaccine effectiveness.
Oral lichen planus in children: An Italian case series
Authors: Spirito Francesca , Caponio Vito Carlo Alberto , Lo Muzio Eleonora , Campisi Giuseppina , Santarelli Andrea , Lo Russo Lucio , Rubini Corrado , Favia Gianfranco , Limongelli Luisa , Coppola Noemi , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Leuci Stefania
Published: April 2023

Oral lichen planus usually occurs in adults; there are no clear data regarding the incidence and the clinical features of oral lichen planus in children. This paper reports clinical findings, treatments, and outcomes of 13 Italian patients with oral lichen planus in childhood diagnosed between 2001 and 2021. The most common finding was keratotic lesions with reticular or papular/plaque‐like patterns, confined to the tongue in seven patients. Although oral lichen planus in childhood is rare and the malignant transformation index is unknown, specialists must be aware of its characteristics and oral mucosal lesions must be correctly diagnosed and managed.
How can care managers strengthen health literacy among patients with common mental disorders? A qualitative study
Authors: Nejati Shabnam , Törnbom Karin , Hange Dominique , Björkelund Cecilia , Svenningsson Irene
Published: April 2023

Background

In order for persons with mental illness to be able to promote and preserve their health, sufficient knowledge about health is required. An effective means to improve the health of the patients is to strengthen their health literacy. The aim of this study was to explore how care managers work with health literacy in patients with common mental disorders to help them to better understand and manage their illness.

Method

A qualitative study was conducted, using written reports from 25 care managers regarding meetings with patients with common mental disorders in the primary care in a Swedish region. The care managers' reports were coded based on Sörensen's four dimensions for the domain “health care” and analysed deductively through systematic text condensation according to Malterud.

Results

The care managers described how they worked strategically and continuously with follow‐up and wanted to be responsive to the patients' stories. They confirmed the patients' feelings with the goal of creating increased interaction, thereby involving the patients in their own care. The care managers also worked actively to provide well‐balanced care at an early stage. Using various tools such as self‐assessment instruments, the care manager started from the patient's basic problem, gave support and discussed strategies based on the patient's condition and situation.

Conclusions

The care managers used multifaceted health literacy interventions. They worked in a person‐centred, strategic and encouraging manner based on the patient's unique conditions, where sensitivity and adapted information were important aspects. The aim of the interventions was for the patients to become knowledgeable, gain new insights and work independently with their own health.
Australian perspectives on artificial intelligence in veterinary practice
Authors: Currie Geoff , Hespel Adrien‐Maxence , Carstens Ann
Published: April 2023

While artificial intelligence (AI) and recent developments in deep learning (DL) have sparked interest in medical imaging, there has been little commentary on the impact of AI on the veterinarian and veterinary imaging technologists. This survey study aimed to understand the attitudes, applications, and concerns among veterinarians and radiography professionals in Australia regarding the rapidly emerging applications of AI. An anonymous online survey was circulated to the members of three Australian veterinary professional organizations. The survey invitations were shared via email and social media with the survey open for 5 months. Among the 84 respondents, there was a high level of acceptance of lower order tasks (e.g., patient registration, triage, and dispensing) and less acceptance of high order task automation (e.g., surgery and interpretation). There was a low priority perception for the role of AI in higher order tasks (e.g., diagnosis, interpretation, and decision making) and high priority for those applications that automate complex tasks (e.g., quantitation, segmentation, reconstruction) or improve image quality (e.g., dose/noise reduction and pseudo CT for attenuation correction). Medico‐legal, ethical, diversity, and privacy issues posed moderate or high concern while there appeared to be no concern regarding AI being clinically useful and improving efficiency. Mild concerns included redundancy, training bias, transparency, and validity. Australian veterinarians and veterinary professionals recognize important applications of AI for assisting with repetitive tasks, performing less complex tasks, and enhancing the quality of outputs in medical imaging. There are concerns relating to ethical aspects of algorithm development and implementation.
Design and Validation of Symmetrical Elastic Elements in Series Elastic Actuator
Authors: Pei Ruzhen , Cao Xibin , Wei Cheng
Published: April 2023

In recent years, the demand for robot joint compliance increased with more complex human–robot interaction scenarios. Series elastic actuators (SEAs) are extensively utilized in multiple fields with abilities to provide accurate force control and energy storage. As the main flexible component in SEA, the accurate modeling of the stiffness of the elastic element is essential. However, the existing stiffness models based on classical Euler–Bernoulli beam theory contain large errors with the actual situation, which increases the difficulty of design. In this paper, a typical elastic element is analyzed by the finite element method to investigate its stiffness properties with different geometric parameters. A more accurate stiffness model is proposed for designing elastic elements. The stiffness model is validated by designed experiments, with a fitting accuracy of 98.27%, which significantly exceeds the stiffness model based on classical beam theory. The proposed stiffness model can be applied to design elastic elements that meet specific stiffness requirements.
Guided wave propagation and skew effects in anisotropic carbon fiber reinforced laminates
Authors: Hervin Flora , Fromme Paul
Published: April 2023

Guided ultrasonic waves provide a promising structural health monitoring (SHM) solution for composite structures as they are able to propagate relatively long distances with low attenuation. However, the material anisotropy results in directionally dependent phase and group velocities, in addition to energy focusing, wave skewing, and beam spreading phenomena. These effects could lead to inaccurate damage localization if not accounted for. In this contribution, the guided wave propagation behavior (A0 mode) for a highly anisotropic, unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced polymer laminate is systematically investigated through both finite element analysis and non-contact laser measurements and compared to theoretical predictions. The directional dependency of phase and group velocity measured for a point and line source shows good agreement with theoretical predictions, once a correction for wave skew effects is applied. Wave skew angles were evaluated from the experimental and numerical wave propagation in multiple directions and matched theoretical predictions based on the phase slowness curve. Significant guided wave beam spreading from a line source was observed and quantified from both experiments and simulations and compared with theoretical predictions using the anisotropy factor. The impact of anisotropic guided wave propagation behavior on SHM is discussed.
Lower Extremity Inverse Kinematics Results Differ Between Inertial Measurement Unit- and Marker-Derived Gait Data
Authors: Hafer Jocelyn F. , Mihy Julien A. , Hunt Andrew , Zernicke Ronald F. , Johnson Russell T.
Published: April 2023

In-lab, marker-based gait analyses may not represent real-world gait. Real-world gait analyses may be feasible using inertial measurement units (IMUs) in combination with open-source data processing pipelines (OpenSense). Before using OpenSense to study real-world gait, we must determine whether these methods estimate joint kinematics similarly to traditional marker-based motion capture (MoCap) and differentiate groups with clinically different gait mechanics. Healthy young and older adults and older adults with knee osteoarthritis completed this study. We captured MoCap and IMU data during overground walking at 2 speeds. MoCap and IMU kinematics were computed with OpenSim workflows. We tested whether sagittal kinematics differed between MoCap and IMU, whether tools detected between-group differences similarly, and whether kinematics differed between tools by speed. MoCap showed more anterior pelvic tilt (0%–100% stride) and joint flexion than IMU (hip: 0%–38% and 61%–100% stride; knee: 0%–38%, 58%–89%, and 95%–99% stride; and ankle: 6%–99% stride). There were no significant tool-by-group interactions. We found significant tool-by-speed interactions for all angles. While MoCap- and IMU-derived kinematics differed, the lack of tool-by-group interactions suggests consistent tracking across clinical cohorts. Results of the current study suggest that IMU-derived kinematics with OpenSense may enable reliable evaluation of gait in real-world settings.
Cost-Effectiveness of the ENJOY Seniors Exercise Park for Older People: A Pre–Post Intervention Study
Authors: Brusco Natasha K. , Hill Keith D. , Haines Terry , Dunn Jeremy , Panisset Maya G. , Dow Briony , Batchelor Frances , Biddle Stuart J.H. , Duque Gustavo , Levinger Pazit
Published: April 2023

Background: The Exercise interveNtion outdoor proJect in the cOmmunitY (ENJOY) Seniors Exercise Park program uses specialized outdoor equipment and a physical activity program to engage older people in physical activity, with multiple health benefits. We determined the cost-effectiveness of the ENJOY program. Methods: The economic evaluation compared health care utilization costs 6 months prior to and 6 months post ENJOY program participation. Incremental cost-utility analysis for the primary aim (quality of life) and incremental cost-effectiveness analysis for the secondary aim (falls) were used. Analyses took a societal perspective inclusive of Australian government-funded health care and pharmaceuticals in addition to hospitalizations, community-based nursing and allied health, and community services. Productivity costs were also calculated. Results: Fifty participants (average age 72.8 y [SD 7.4] and 78.0% [n = 39/50] women) were included. Participation in the ENJOY program reduced health care costs in the 6 months following the program: preintervention, $9764.49 (SD $26,033.35); postintervention, $5179.30 (SD $3826.64); observed postintervention reduction −$4.585.20 (95% confidence interval, −$12,113.99 to $2943.59; P = .227) without compromising quality of life (mean difference [MD] 0.011; 95% confidence interval, −0.034 to 0.056; P = .631) or increasing the likelihood of a fall (−0.5; 95% confidence interval, 0.00 to −0.50; P = .160). The ENJOY intervention is likely cost-effective. Conclusions: Planning for shared community spaces should consider the benefits of a Seniors Exercise Park as part of the built environment.
Disability Type and Constraints to Leisure-Time Physical Activity in Türkiye
Authors: Ebru Uçar Dilara , Yıldızer Günay , Yılmaz İlker
Published: April 2023

Background: Little is known about the effect of disability type on perceived physical activity (PA) constraints. Investigating the leisure-time PA constraint differences across disability groups would increase the possibility of PA participation, and reverse the physical inactivity trend for disabled populations. Objective: The purpose was to examine perceived PA constraint differences between individuals with 3 different disability types, which are visual, hearing, and physical disabilities. Methods: The study sample comprised 305 individuals with a visual disability, 203 individuals with a physical disability, and 144 individuals with hearing loss. Leisure Time PA Constraints Scale-Disabled Individuals Form, consisting of 32 items and 8 subscales, was used as for data collection. Data were analyzed with a 3 × 2 two-way multivariate analysis of variance. Results: Findings indicated a significant main effect of the disability group (Pillai V = 0.025; F16,639 = 10.132, P < .001, η2 = .112), gender (Pillai V = 0.250; F8,639 = 2.025, P < .05, η2 = .025), and interaction between the disability group and gender (Pillai V = 0.069; F161,280 = 2.847, P < .001, η2 = .034). The follow-up analyses of variance indicated significant differences in facility quality, social environment, family, willpower, time, and ability perception scores between disability groups, P < .05. Conclusions: People with different disabilities have different perceived leisure-time PA barriers with respect to environmental, social, and psychological factors; generally, disabled females perceived more barriers to leisure-time PA. Policies and intervention protocols for disabled individuals should directly address the disability-specific need of individuals to increase leisure-time PA participation.
Mental Fatigue From Smartphone Use or Stroop Task Does Not Affect Bench Press Force–Velocity Profile, One-Repetition Maximum, or Vertical Jump Performance
Authors: Alix-Fages Carlos , Baz-Valle Eneko , González-Cano Henar , Jiménez-Martínez Pablo , Balsalobre-Fernández Carlos
Published: April 2023

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of mental fatigue from smartphone use and Stroop task on bench press force–velocity (F-V) profile, one-repetition maximum (1RM), and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. Twenty-five trained subjects (age = 25.8 ± 5.7 years) completed three sessions separated by 1 week following a randomized double-blinded crossover design. Each session consisted of F-V relationship, 1RM, and CMJ measurements after performing 30 min of control, social media, or Stroop task. Perceived mental fatigue and motivation were recorded. Mental fatigue, motivation, CMJ height, bench press 1RM, and F-V profile variables (maximal force, maximal velocity, and maximal power) were compared between interventions. Significant differences were found for mental fatigue between interventions (p ≤ .001). Both ST (p ≤ .001) and SM (p = .007) induced higher mental fatigue than control. However, no significant differences between interventions were observed for any other variable (p = .056–.723). The magnitude of the differences between interventions ranged from negligible to small (effect sizes ≤ 0.24). These results suggest that although both ST and SM were effective to induce mental fatigue, neither ST nor SM affected CMJ performance, bench press 1RM, or any variable of the F-V profile compared with the control task.
Germline-encoded amino acid–binding motifs drive immunodominant public antibody responses
Authors: Shrock Ellen L. , Timms Richard T. , Kula Tomasz , Mena Elijah L. , West Anthony P. , Guo Rui , Lee I-Hsiu , Cohen Alexander A. , McKay Lindsay G. A. , Bi Caihong , Leng Yumei , Fujimura Eric , Horns Felix , Li Mamie , Wesemann Duane R. , Griffiths Anthony , Gewurz Benjamin E. , Bjorkman Pamela J. , Elledge Stephen J.
Published: April 2023

Despite the vast diversity of the antibody repertoire, infected individuals often mount antibody responses to precisely the same epitopes within antigens. The immunological mechanisms underpinning this phenomenon remain unknown. By mapping 376 immunodominant “public epitopes” at high resolution and characterizing several of their cognate antibodies, we concluded that germline-encoded sequences in antibodies drive recurrent recognition. Systematic analysis of antibody-antigen structures uncovered 18 human and 21 partially overlapping mouse germline-encoded amino acid–binding (GRAB) motifs within heavy and light V gene segments that in case studies proved critical for public epitope recognition. GRAB motifs represent a fundamental component of the immune system’s architecture that promotes recognition of pathogens and leads to species-specific public antibody responses that can exert selective pressure on pathogens.
Obligate chimerism in male yellow crazy ants
Authors: Darras H. , Berney C. , Hasin S. , Drescher J. , Feldhaar H. , Keller L.
Published: April 2023

Multicellular organisms typically develop from a single fertilized egg and therefore consist of clonal cells. We report an extraordinary reproductive system in the yellow crazy ant. Males are chimeras of haploid cells from two divergent lineages: R and W. R cells are overrepresented in the males’ somatic tissues, whereas W cells are overrepresented in their sperm. Chimerism occurs when parental nuclei bypass syngamy and divide separately within the same egg. When syngamy takes place, the diploid offspring either develops into a queen when the oocyte is fertilized by an R sperm or into a worker when fertilized by a W sperm. This study reveals a mode of reproduction that may be associated with a conflict between lineages to preferentially enter the germ line.
Monkey mock embryos set new development record
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: April 2023

First embryo mimics from monkeys may boost research into early development, miscarriages
All DACs in a Row: Domain Architectures of Bacterial and Archaeal Diadenylate Cyclases
Authors: Galperin Michael Y.
Published: April 2023

Cyclic dimeric AMP (c-di-AMP) is a widespread second messenger that controls such key functions as osmotic homeostasis, peptidoglycan biosynthesis, and response to various stresses. C-di-AMP is synthesized by diadenylate cyclases that contain the DAC (DisA_N) domain, which was originally characterized as the N-terminal domain in the DNA integrity scanning protein DisA. In other experimentally studied diadenylate cyclases, DAC domain is typically located at the protein C termini and its enzymatic activity is controlled by one or more N-terminal domains.
Draft Genome Sequences of Coral-Associated Bacterium
Hoeflea
sp. Strain E7-10 and Dinoflagellate-Associated Bacterium Hoeflea prorocentri PM5-8
Authors: Zhang Guoqiang , Wei Qiaoyan , Zhang Zongyao , Cai Lin
Published: April 2023

Here, we report the draft genome sequences of
Hoeflea
sp. strain E7-10 and
Hoeflea prorocentri
PM5-8, isolated from a bleached hard coral and a culture of marine dinoflagellate, respectively. Genome sequencing for host-associated isolates
Hoeflea
sp. E7-10 and
H. prorocentri
PM5-8 can provide basic genetic information to explore potential roles in their hosts.
Probio-X Relieves Symptoms of Hyperlipidemia by Regulating Patients’ Gut Microbiome, Blood Lipid Metabolism, and Lifestyle Habits
Authors: Wang Huan , Ma Cuicui , Li Yan , Zhang Lei , A lima , Yang Chengcong , Zhao Feiyan , Han Haifeng , Shang Dongyang , Yang Fan , Zhang Yuying , Zhang Heping , Sun Zhihong , Guo Ruifang
Published: April 2023

The human gut microbiota have a potential effect on the lipid metabolism and are closely related to the disease hyperlipidemia. Our trial has demonstrated that 3-month intake of a mixed probiotic formulation alleviates hyperlipidemic symptoms, possibly by modulation of gut microbes and host lipid metabolism. The findings of the present study provide new insights into the treatment of hyperlipidemia, mechanisms of novel therapeutic strategies, and application of probiotics-based therapy.
Shallow deformation on the Kirby Hills fault, Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, California (USA), revealed from high-resolution seismic reflection data and coring in a fluvial system
Authors: Klotsko Shannon , Maloney Jillian , Watt Janet
Published: April 2023

The Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta (Delta) in California (USA) is an important part of the state’s freshwater system and is also a major source of agricultural and natural resources. However, the Delta is traversed by a series of faults that make up the easternmost part of the San Andreas fault system at this latitude and pose seismic hazard to this region. In this study, we use new high-resolution chirp subbottom data1 to map and characterize the shallow expression of the Kirby Hills fault, where it has been mapped to cross the Sacramento River at the western extent of the Delta. The fault is buried here, but we document a broad zone of deformation associated with the eastern strand of the fault that changes in character, along strike, across ~600 m of the river channel. Radiocarbon dates from sediment cores collected in the Sacramento River provide some minimum constraints on the age of deformation. We do not observe evidence of the western strand as previously mapped. We also discuss difficulties of conducting a paleoseismologic study in a fluvial environment.
Supplemental Material: Mesozoic–Cenozoic uplift of Qiman Tagh Range in northern Tibet Plateau, western China
Authors: Jiang Liwei , Liu Yongjiang , al. et
Published: April 2023

Table S1: Thermal history model input for simulations of Qiman Tagh Range apatite fission-track (AFT) data. Table S2: Apatite fission-track data for the Qiman Tagh Range, which was measured by external detector method. Table S3: Apatite fission-track data for the Qiman Tagh Range, which was measured by LA-ICP-MS. Table S4: Thermochronological ages of the northern Tibetan Plateau.
Evolutionary and Ecological Aspects of the Population Structure Formation of Sockeye Salmon Oncorhynchus nerka (Salmonidae) in Western Kamchatka
Authors: Khrustaleva A. M.
Published: April 2023

Abstract—

The results of previous studies on the population structure of the sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka of Western Kamchatka are revised based on the analysis of the variability of 45 single nucleotide polymorphism loci using both own data (seven samples from the water bodies of the western coast of the Kamchatka peninsula) and the data obtained by other researchers (seven samples from the basin of Lake Kurilskoye and one sample from the Bystraya River, basin of the Bolshaya River). All materials were re-analyzed to clarify the existing ideas about the origin and formation of the populations of sockeye salmon of the Western Kamchatka complex, as well as to reconstruct the historical and modern demographic and genetic processes that occur in these populations. According to the results of genetic differentiation tests, principal component analysis, and discriminant analysis of the principal components the sample set of lake sockeye salmon from the Ozernaya River (reproduction in the basin of Lake Kurilskoye) and Plotnikova River (predominantly the downstream migrants from Lake Nachikinskoye) differed the most from the other samples, represented mainly by river sockeye salmon. The results of the principal component analysis and the topology of the phylogenetic network for the sample sets from the basin of Lake Kurilskoye revealed their division in accordance with the periods of spawning grounds filling and with the geographical variability of the spawning periods of sockeye salmon in the lake basin.
Flexibly funding WHO? An analysis of its donors’ voluntary contributions
Authors: Iwunna Obichukwu , Kennedy Jonathan , Harmer Andrew
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Since the 1970s, voluntary contributions have become an increasingly important component of WHO’s budget. As voluntary contributions tend to be earmarked for donor-specified programmes and projects, there are concerns that this trend has diverted focus away from WHO’s strategic priorities, made coordination and attaining coherence more difficult, undermined WHO’s democratic structures and given undue power to a handful of wealthy donors. In the past few years, the WHO Secretariat has pushed for donors to increase the amount of flexible funding they provide.

Methods

This paper aims to add to the literature on WHO financing by constructing and analysing a dataset based on figures extracted from WHO documents for the period 2010–21. It aims to answer two questions: who funds WHO and how flexible is that funding?

Results

Our analysis demonstrates that in the last decade voluntary contributions have steadily increased as a proportion of WHO’s budget, from 75% at the start of the period to 88% at the end. High-income countries and donors based in high-income countries provided 90% of voluntary contributions in 2020. Surprisingly, the share of voluntary contributions provided by upper middle-income countries was consistently less than the share by lower middle-income countries. Furthermore, in terms of their share of voluntary contributions, we found that upper middle-income countries contributed the least proportion of their gross national income to WHO.

Conclusion

We conclude that WHO remains constrained by the conditions attached to the vast majority of funding that it receives from its donors. Further work on how to flexibly fund WHO is required. We recommend that the Agile Member States Task Group on Strengthening WHO’s Budgetary, Programmatic and Financing Governance continues the work of the Working Group on Sustainable Financing by focusing on the incentives that determine donor support for specified and flexible voluntary contributions.
Effects of front-of-package nutrition labelling systems on understanding and purchase intention in Jamaica: results from a multiarm randomised controlled trial
Authors: White-Barrow Vanessa , Gomes Fabio S , Eyre Sheerin , Ares Gaston , Morris Audrey , Caines Deonne , Finlay David
Published: April 2023

Objective

To assess the effects of three different front-of-package labelling (FOPL) schemes on objective understanding and intention to purchase of products, in Jamaica.

Setting

Supermarkets in Jamaica.

Participants

Adult supermarket shoppers in Jamaica (n=1206) aged 18 years old or older were included in the study, except for those visually impaired, or unable to give informed consent.

Design

Multiarm parallel-group randomised trial.

Interventions

Participants were randomly allocated to one of the three intervention groups or the control group. They were exposed to two-dimensional images of 12 mock-up products presented in random and balanced order. Participants assigned to the intervention groups were exposed to one FOPL scheme: black octagonal warning labels (OWL), magnifying glass high-in single icon (MGG) or traffic-light labelling (TFL). The control group was exposed to the nutrition facts up front.

Outcome measures

OR for correctly understanding nutritional information (correctly selecting the least harmful option, correctly identifying sugars, sodium and/or saturated fats found to be in excess) and choosing to purchase the least harmful option (purchase intention), more often.

Results

Compared with the control group, the odds for correctly selecting the least harmful option more often were 107% higher in the OWL group (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.54 to 2.78; p<0.001), whereas the MGG (1.18, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.57; p=0.24) and the TFL (1.13, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.51; p=0.39) were inefficacious in improving such odds. OWL also resulted in the highest odds for correctly identifying a product with excessive amounts of sugars, sodium and/or saturated fats and for deciding to purchase the least harmful option or none of the options.

Conclusions

Octagonal warning labels performed best at improving the ability of adult shoppers in Jamaica to understand the nutrition information and at encouraging them to purchase the least harmful option more often.
The viscosity reducers exhibit dispersing ability for resin in heavy oil
Authors: Xing Langman , Quan Hongping , Zhao Jinyang , Huang Xiaomei
Published: April 2023

The viscosity of the heavy oil was closely correlated with its own resin content by comparing three types of crude oil. In this paper, two novel viscosity reducers with characteristic groups in molecular structures were synthesized for Xinjiang heavy oil, namely viscosity reducer 1 (VR-1) and viscosity reducer 2 (VR-2), both of them showed the better viscosity reduction effect on Xinjiang heavy oil and VR-2 was better than VR-1. The measurement results of ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer and scanning electron microscope showed that the VR-2 had better separation effect for resin than the VR-1. By analyzing the infrared spectrum results of resin molecule, it could be seen that the resin molecule contained more heteroatoms, which could more easily form the stronger hydrogen bonding with VR-2 with more polar groups to result the better resin dispersion effect. Hence, the phenomenon that VR-1 was not as good as VR-2 in improving fluidity of Xinjiang heavy oil was explained.
Active learning for optimum experimental design—insight into perovskite oxides
Authors: Lourenço Maicon Pierre , Tchagang Alain , Shankar Karthik , Thangadurai Venkataraman , Salahub Dennis R.
Published: April 2023

Finding the optimum material with improved properties for a given application is challenging because data acquisition in materials science and chemistry is time consuming and expensive. Therefore, dealing with small datasets is a reality in chemistry, whether the data are obtained from synthesis or computational experiments. In this work, we propose a new artificial intelligence method based on active learning (AL) to guide new experiments with as little data as possible, for optimum experimental design. The AL method is applied to ABO3 perovskites, where a descriptor based on atomic properties was developed. Several regressor algorithms were employed: artificial neural network, Gaussian process, and support vector regressor. The developed AL method was applied in the experimental design of two important materials: non-stoichiometric perovskites (Ba(1− x)A x Ti(1− y)B y O3) due to substituting ionic sites with different concentrations and elements (A = Ca, Sr, Cd; B = Zr, Sn, Hf), aiming at the maximization of the energy storage density, and stoichiometric ABO3 perovskites where different elements are changed in the A and B sites for the minimization of the formation energy. AL for experimental design is implemented in the machine learning agent for chemistry and design (MLChem4D) software, which has the potential to be applied in inorganic and organic synthesis (e.g., search for the optimum concentrations, catalysts, reactants, temperatures, and pH to improve the yield) and materials science (e.g., search the periodic table for the proper elements and their concentrations to improve the materials properties). The latter marks the first MLChem4D application for the design of perovskites.