bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitor to innovate with feedback loops: process evaluation protocol for an anemia prevention intervention
Authors: Pant Ichhya , Patro Lipika , Sedlander Erica , Chandrana Shikha , Rimal Rajiv
Published: September 2022

Background:Digital process monitoring and evaluation tools designed to capture near-to-real-time intervention data paired with feedback loops have the potential to innovate intervention delivery.

Objective:To describe how a multilevel social norms field trial (RANI) is using feedback loops to enhance intervention delivery.

Methods:We use a mixed-methods process evaluation design to monitor the Reduction of Anemia through Normative Innovations (RANI) project; a three-year randomized control trial which aims to lower rates of anemia among women in Odisha, India. Surveys and structured observation monitor fidelity to implementation and acceptability of implementation activities among study participants. Quantitative data evaluates implementation dose, coverage, exposure, and reach of intervention activities, and qualitative data will delve more deeply into reasons for high or low functioning. Iron folic acid supplement supply and demand are also monitored for stock-outs. Data collected from 130 intervention villages is processed, visualized, and triangulated in near to real-time via Real-time Monitoring for Knowledge Generation (RPM4K), a locally developed software application. Data visualization products facilitate the examination of monitoring data to mitigate bottlenecks and identify and implement tweaks to our intervention delivery strategy on an ongoing basis.

Discussion:Feedback loops facilitate timely course corrections. Feedback loops can also engender a shared understanding of ground realities for a geographically dispersed and culturally diverse team. Leveraging feedback loops, we identify opportunities to provide on-going supportive supervision for our community facilitators promoting joint problem-solving, and communication. Monthly media and hemoglobin level demonstration strategies are informed by participant engagement and acceptability. Stock-outs of iron folic acid tablets activate contingency plans to mobilize local stakeholders and advocate for timely resolutions. Unintended effects are monitored based on ongoing feedback from community facilitators.

Conclusions:Documenting our processes can inform the future implementation or scale up of similar projects embracing feedback loops to iterate and innovate their intervention delivery.
Knowledge of Public Environmental Health with Covid-19 Prevention Behavior at the Jalan Gedang Public Health Center Bengkulu City
Authors: Amir Raju Sungsang , Wati Nopia , Ramon Agus , Yanuarti Riska , Az Zahra Fauzia Farah
Published: September 2022

Background: The highest spread of Covid-19 cases in 9 sub-districts in Bengkulu City was Gading Cempaka District, with 86 positive cases, 46 recovered, and 3 died. People do not comply with health and personal hygiene protocols such as washing hands and using masks, do not behave in a healthy life, and lack public awareness in maintaining environmental cleanliness. In addition, the community still litters in several places and lacks knowledge and understanding of clean water and household waste management properly. This study aimed to determine the relationship between public environmental health knowledge and Covid-19 prevention behavior in the Working Area of ​​Jalan Gedang Health Center, Bengkulu City. Method: The design used in this research is quantitative research using a cross-sectional approach. This research took place in the area of ​​Jalan Gedang Health Center, Bengkulu City. This research was conducted in January – February 2021. The population was 15,726 people; a sample of 40 people was taken from the minimum sample calculation using a simple random sampling technique. The process of collecting data using a questionnaire and analyzed by univariate and bivariate. Results: The results showed that respondents with good knowledge were 21 people (55%) and 19 people (45%). There is a significant relationship between environmental health knowledge and community behavior toward preventing Covid-19 in the Jalan Gedang Health Center Work Area, Bengkulu City. The results showed p-value (0.001) > 0.05, OR = 7.500 with 95% CI (1.798-31.283). This means that knowledgeable respondents are 7.5 times less likely to behave less well in preventing Covid-19 compared to well-informed respondents. Conclusion: Environmental health knowledge has a significant relationship with Covid-19 prevention behavior. Researchers advise the public to always maintain a clean environment and live a healthy life to avoid the transmission of the Covid-19 disease.
Optimization of the annealed proton exchange method with controlled annealing for multifunctional integrated optical chip production
Authors: Yasemin Aşık Fatma , Gökkavas Mutlu , Öztekin Evren , Karagöz Ercan , Ceylan Abdullah , Özbay Ekmel
Published: September 2022

The main objective of our study is to develop a new approach to the annealed proton exchange (APE) method for the fabrication of the multifunctional integrated optical chip (MIOC) used in fiber-optic gyro systems and to eliminate the loss of time and material, especially in mass production applications. In this work, self-polarized waveguides, which are the basic components of a MIOC device, were produced by the APE method and studied. With the developed method, controlled annealing trials have been carried out from a certain region on the

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substrate used in waveguide production, and the annealing time specific to the annealing process was determined. By utilizing a special setup for the hot acid process, the proton exchange process was accomplished without a sudden temperature change of the substrate. Using prism coupling measurements of the fabricated waveguides, annealing times were determined to obtain index change values suitable for 45%–50% optical throughput. Mode profiles of devices with high optical throughput that were produced by the proposed method were measured, and it was seen that devices from different proton exchange runs had similar profiles. As a result, many undamaged substrates were fabricated, and their optical quality was found to be within the expected values.
Optical characterization of inhomogeneous thin films with randomly rough boundaries exhibiting wide intervals of spatial frequencies
Authors: Ohlídal Ivan , Vohánka Jiří , Buršíková Vilma , Dvořák Jan , Klapetek Petr , Jeet Kaur Nupinder
Published: September 2022

Results concerning the optical characterization of two inhomogeneous polymer-like thin films deposited by the plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition onto silicon single crystal substrates are presented. One of these films is deposited onto a smooth silicon surface while the latter film is deposited on a randomly rough silicon surface with a wide interval of spatial frequencies. A combination of variable-angle spectroscopic ellipsometry and spectroscopic reflectometry applied at near-normal incidence are utilized for characterizing both the films. An inhomogeneity of the films is described by the method based on multiple-beam interference of light and method replacing inhomogeneous thin films by multilayer systems. Homogeneous transition layers between the films and substrates are considered. The Campi–Coriasso dispersion model is used to express spectral dependencies of the optical constants of the polymer-like films and transition layers. A combination of the scalar diffraction theory and Rayleigh–Rice theory is used to include boundary roughness into formulae for the optical quantities of the rough polymer-like film. Within the optical characterization, the spectral dependencies of the optical constants at the upper and lower boundaries of both the polymer-like films are determined together with their thickness values and profiles of the optical constants. Roughness parameters are determined for the rough film. The values of the roughness parameters are confirmed by atomic force microscopy. Moreover, the optical constants and thicknesses of both the transition layers are determined. A discussion of the achieved results for both the polymer-like films and transition layers is performed.
Fabry–Perot interferometers for highly-sensitive multi-point relative humidity sensing based on Vernier effect and digital signal processing
Authors: Wang Yu , Yan Yaxi , Lian Zhenggang , Chen Daru , Lau Alan Pak Tao , Lu Chao
Published: September 2022

A highly sensitive relative humidity (RH) sensor based on Fabry-Perot interferometers (FPI) is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. The sensor is fabricated by splicing a segment of hollow core Bragg fiber (HCBF) with single mode fiber (SMF) and functionalized with chitosan and ultraviolet optical adhesive (UVOA) composite at the end of HCBF to form a hygroscopic polymer film. The reflection beams from the splicing point and the two surfaces of the polymer film generate the Vernier effect in the reflection spectrum, which significantly improves the humidity sensitivity of the sensor. To demodulate the envelope based on the Vernier effect and realize multi-point sensing, a digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm is proposed to process the reflection spectrum. The performance of the DSP algorithm is theoretically analyzed and experimentally verified. The proposed sensor demonstrates a high sensitivity of 1.45 nm/% RH for RH ranging from 45% RH to 90% RH. The compact size, high sensitivity and multiplexing capability make this sensor a promising candidate for RH monitoring. Furthermore, the proposed DSP can potentially be applied to other sensors based on the Vernier effect to analyze and extract valuable information from the interference spectrum.
Generation of continuous-variable high-dimensional entanglement with three degrees of freedom and multiplexing quantum dense coding
Authors: Guo Hui , Liu Na , Li Zhi , Yang Rongguo , Sun Hengxin , Liu Kui , Gao Jiangrui
Published: September 2022

High-dimensional entanglement is a critical foundation for the growing demand for information capacity to implement the high-capacity quantum task. Here, we report continuous-variable high-dimensional entanglement with three degrees of freedom (frequency, polarization, and orbital angular momentum) directly generated with a single type-II optical parametric oscillator (OPO) cavity. By compensating both for dispersion in frequency modes and astigmatism in higher-order transverse modes, the OPO is capable of oscillating simultaneously and outputting thousands of entanglement pairs. The three degrees of freedom high-dimensional entanglement are verified simultaneously possessing frequency comb, spin, and orbital angular momentum entanglement via 14 pairs of Hermite–Gaussian mode correlations measurement. Then, the “space-frequency” multiplexing quantum dense coding communication is also demonstrated by using the entanglement resource. It shows the great superiority of high-dimensional entanglement in implementing the high-capacity quantum task. Apart from an increased channel capacity, it is possible to conduct deterministic high-dimensional quantum protocols, quantum imaging, and especially quantum computing.
Leaf vein patterning is regulated by the aperture of plasmodesmata intercellular channels
Authors: Linh Nguyen Manh , Scarpella Enrico
Published: September 2022

To form tissue networks, animal cells migrate and interact through proteins protruding from their plasma membranes. Plant cells can do neither, yet plants form vein networks. How plants do so is unclear, but veins are thought to form by the coordinated action of the polar transport and signal transduction of the plant hormone auxin. However, plants inhibited in both pathways still form veins. Patterning of vascular cells into veins is instead prevented in mutants lacking the function of theGNOM(GN) regulator of auxin transport and signaling, suggesting the existence of at least one moreGN-dependent vein-patterning pathway. Here we show that in Arabidopsis such a pathway depends on the movement of auxin or an auxin-dependent signal through plasmodesmata (PDs) intercellular channels. PD permeability is high where veins are forming, lowers between veins and nonvascular tissues, but remains high between vein cells. Impaired ability to regulate PD aperture leads to defects in auxin transport and signaling, ultimately leading to vein patterning defects that are enhanced by inhibition of auxin transport or signaling.GNcontrols PD aperture regulation, and simultaneous inhibition of auxin signaling, auxin transport, and regulated PD aperture phenocopies nullgnmutants. Therefore, veins are patterned by the coordinated action of threeGN-dependent pathways: auxin signaling, polar auxin transport, and movement of auxin or an auxin-dependent signal through PDs. Such a mechanism of tissue network formation is unprecedented in multicellular organisms.
FIONA1-mediated methylation of the 3’UTR of FLC affects FLC transcript levels and flowering in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sun Bin , Bhati Kaushal Kumar , Song Peizhe , Edwards Ashleigh , Petri Louise , Kruusvee Valdeko , Blaakmeer Anko , Dolde Ulla , Rodrigues Vandasue , Straub Daniel , Yang Junbo , Jia Guifang , Wenkel Stephan
Published: September 2022

Adenosine bases of RNA can be transiently modified by the deposition of a methyl-group to form N6-methyladenosine (m6A). This adenosine-methylation is an ancient process and the enzymes involved are evolutionary highly conserved. A genetic screen designed to identify suppressors of late flowering transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing the miP1a microProtein yielded a new allele of the FIONA1 (FIO1) m6A-methyltransferase. To characterize the early flowering phenotype of fio1 mutant plants we employed an integrative approach of mRNA-seq, Nanopore direct RNA-sequencing and meRIP-seq to identify differentially expressed transcripts as well as differentially methylated RNAs. We provide evidence that FIO1 is the elusive methyltransferase responsible for the 3’-end methylation of the FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) transcript. Furthermore, our genetic and biochemical data suggest that 3’-methylation stabilizes FLC mRNAs and non-methylated FLC is a target for rapid degradation.
Rethinking malaria: Governance lessons from other disease programs
Authors: Ohiri Kelechi , Aniebo Ifeyinwa , Akinlade Oluwafunmilayo
Published: September 2022

The global disruptions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the stagnation of progress of global malaria elimination efforts have provided an opportunity to rethink several aspects of the global malaria program, including its governance at all levels, from the community to the nation and to the world. Approaching this issue requires an examination of the critical governance factors that affect malaria elimination as well as lessons that could be learned from the governance of other global health programs. The paper, therefore, first reviews malaria program governance challenges at the global, national, and sub-national levels. We then conducted a literature review of governance factors that affected four major global disease elimination programs; (1) the global smallpox eradication program; (2) polio eradication efforts (focus on Latin America); (3) the onchocerciasis eradication program; and (4) global COVID-19 pandemic control efforts. Based on this review, we identified eight comment governance themes that impact disease elimination programs. These include 1) International support and coordination; 2) Financing; 3) Data use for engagement and decision making, 4) Country ownership; 5) National program structure and management, 6) Community support/engagement; 7) Multisectoral engagement; and 8) Technology and innovation The paper then illustrates how these eight governance themes were factored in the four disease control programs, draws lessons and insights about the role of governance from these programs and outlines the implications for governance of malaria elimination efforts. The paper concludes by making recommendations for improving governance of malaria elimination programs and how the analyses of other global disease control programs can provide new ideas and inspiration for a more robust push towards malaria eradication.
Laboratory and field evaluation of the STANDARD Q and Panbio™ SARS-CoV-2 antigen rapid test in Namibia using nasopharyngeal samples
Authors: Konstantinus Iyaloo , Chiwara Douglas , Ndevaetela Emmy-Else , Ndarukwa-Phiri Victoria , Garus-oas Nathalia! , Frans Ndahafa , Ndumbu Pentikainen , Shiningavamwe Andreas , van Rooyen Gerhard , Schiceya Ferlin , Hlahla Lindile , Namundjebo Pendapala , Ndozi-Okia Ifeoma , Chikuse Francis , Bantiewalu Sirak Hailu , Tjombonde Kapena
Published: September 2022

Background

As new SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern emerge, there is a need to scale up testing to minimize transmission of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Many countries especially those in the developing world continue to struggle with scaling up reverse transcriptase polymerase reaction (RT-PCR) to detect SARS-CoV-2 due to scarcity of resources. Alternatives such as antigen rapid diagnostics tests (Ag-RDTs) may provide a solution to enable countries scale up testing.

Methods

In this study, we evaluated the Panbio™ and STANDARD Q Ag-RDTs in the laboratory using 80 COVID-19 RT-PCR confirmed and 80 negative nasopharyngeal swabs. The STANDARD Q was further evaluated in the field on 112 symptomatic and 61 asymptomatic participants.

Results

For the laboratory evaluation, both tests had a sensitivity above 80% (Panbio™ = 86% vs STANDARD Q = 88%). The specificity of the Panbio™ was 100%, while that of the STANDARD Q was 99%. When evaluated in the field, the STANDARD Q maintained a high specificity of 99%, however the sensitivity was reduced to 56%.

Conclusion

Using Ag-RDTs in low resource settings will be helpful in scaling-up SARS-CoV-2 testing, however, negative results should be confirmed by RT-PCR where possible to rule out COVID-19 infection.
Lifestyle risk factors and metabolic markers of cardiovascular diseases in Bangladeshi rural-to-urban male migrants compared with their non-migrant siblings: A sibling-pair comparative study
Authors: Mumu Shirin Jahan , Rahman A. K. M. Fazlur , Fahey Paul P. , Ali Liaquat , Merom Dafna
Published: September 2022

Background

The increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in developing countries like Bangladesh has been linked to progressive urbanisation. Comparisons of rural and urban populations often find a higher prevalence of CVD risk factors in the urban population, but rural-to-urban migrants might have different CVD risk profiles than either rural or urban residents. This study aimed to describe differences in CVD risk factors between migrants and non-migrants siblings and to determine whether acculturation factors were associated with CVD risk factors among migrants.

Methods

Using a sibling-pair comparative study, 164 male migrant who migrated from Pirganj rural areas to Dhaka City and their rural siblings (total N = 328) were assessed by interview, anthropometric measurement, blood pressure and blood samples. Comparisons were made using linear or logistic mixed effects models.

Findings

Physical inactivity, inadequate intake of fruit and vegetables and possible existence of a mental health disorder had 3.3 (1.73; 6.16), 4.3 (2.32; 7.92) and 2.9 (1.37; 6.27) times higher odds among migrants than their rural siblings, respectively. Migrants watched television on average 20 minutes (95% CI 6.17–35.08 min/day) more per day than the rural sibling group whereas PUFA intake, fruit and vegetable and fish intake of the migrants were -5.3 gm/day (-6.91; -3.70), -21.6 serving/week (-28.20; -15.09), -14.1 serving/week (-18.32; -9.87), respectively, lower than that of the rural siblings. No significant difference was observed for other variables. After adjusting, the risk of physical inactivity, inadequate fruit and vegetable intake, a mental health disorder and low HDL were significantly higher in migrants than in rural siblings and tended to be higher for each increasing tertile of urban life exposure.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that migration from rural-to-urban environment increases CVD risk which exacerbate with time spent in urban area due to acculturation. This study gives new insights into the increased CVD risk related with migration and urbanization in Bangladesh.
An objective, automated and robust scoring using fluorescence optical imaging to evaluate changes in micro-vascularisation indicating early arthritis
Authors: Zerweck Lukas , Köhm Michaela , Nguyen Phuong-Ha , Geißlinger Gerd , Behrens Frank , Pippow Andreas
Published: September 2022

Fluorescence optical imaging technique (FOI) is a well-established and valid method for visualization of changes in micro vascularization at different organ systems. As increased vascularization is an early feature of joint inflammation, FOI is a promising method to assess arthritis of the hands. But usability of the method is limited to the assessors experience as the measurement of FOI is semi-quantitative using an individual grading system such as the fluorescence optical imaging activity score (FOIAS). The goal of the study was to automatically and thus, objectively analyze the measured fluorescence intensity generated by FOI to evaluate the amount of inflammation of each of the subject’s joints focusing on the distinction between normal joint status or arthritis in psoriatic arthritis patients compared to healthy volunteers. Due to the heterogeneity of the pathophysiological perfusion of the hands, a method to overcome the absoluteness of the data by extracting heatmaps out of the image stacks is developed. To calculate a heatmap for one patient, firstly the time series for each pixel is extracted, which is then represented by a feature value. Secondly, all feature values are clustered. The calculated cluster values represent the relativity between the different pixels and enable a comparison of multiple patients. As a metric to quantify the conspicuousness of a joint a score is calculated based on the extracted cluster values. These steps are repeated for a total number of three features. With this method a tendency towards a classification into unaffected and inflamed joints can be achieved. However, further research is necessary to transform the tendency into a robust classification model.
Feasibility of rescue stenting technique in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to middle cerebral artery occlusion after failed thrombectomy: A single-center retrospective experience
Authors: Kim Jang Hun , Choi Jong-Il
Published: September 2022

Background

Despite remarkable advancements in intra-arterial mechanical thrombectomy (IAT), recanalization failure rates up to 24% have been reported. Recently, permanent stent placement (rescue stent, RS) during IAT has been suggested as an optional modality for better reperfusion and outcomes in these patients. However, previous studies were limited owing to non-standardized procedure protocols and small sample sizes. Here, we aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of RS in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) with middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion.

Methods

Of the 243 patients in our IAT database (2015–2021), 183 were identified as having MCA occlusion alone. Among them, we extracted 53 patients in whom the IAT failed to show thrombolysis in cerebral ischemia (TICI) scores of 2A or worse. Intraoperatively, RS was deployed in 22 patients (RS group), whereas 31 patients (no-stent group) received IAT without stenting. The baseline characteristics and radiologic and clinical outcomes were reviewed. Comparisons between the groups and multivariate logistic analyses for recanalization and good functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale 0–2) were performed.

Results

No baseline differences were noted (RS vs. no-stent); however, the recanalization outcomes (59.1% vs. 25.8%, p = 0.15) and proportion of good modified Rankin Scale scores (45.5% vs. 19.4%, p = 0.041) were better in the RS group. The parameters of symptomatic ICH (9.7% vs. 9.4%) and mortality (6.5% vs. 5.7%) showed no significant difference. In the multivariate analyses, ‘hypertension’ and ‘RS deployment’ were identified as significantly associated factors with recanalization and good prognosis.

Conclusion

In select patients with MCA occlusion AIS after failed IAT, the RS technique can be an optional rescue treatment modality for acquiring better functional outcomes and delayed recanalization.
Habitat requirements of riparian arthropods on gravel bars: Implications for conservation and management of braided river floodplains
Authors: Wessels Reena , Sundermann Andrea
Published: September 2022

In their pristine state, river landscapes consist of complex mosaics of aquatic and terrestrial habitats. They are highly dynamic and, with their harsh environments, offer living space for many specialists. In the present study, the habitat choice of specialists of the riparian arthropod community was studied on a near-natural stretch of the Upper Isar River. Study period was between May and July 2011. Araneae, Formicidae and Staphylinidae were the most common taxa. The dominant species was Pardosa wagleri with 1,092 individuals, followed by Arctosa cinerea with 184 and Paederidus rubrothoracicus with 154 individuals. These three species made up 54% of all located individuals and were considered as representatives for the invertebrate community. Remaining species had by far smaller proportions and were not determined further due to the low individual numbers. Habitat preferences for the three dominant species were analyzed using negative binomial regression. Common and important habitat features were non-silted and coarse gravel areas, which are neighboured by patches with an elevation 1m above the water. Furthermore, the absence of vegetation cover as well the absence of ants was crucial for the occurrence of the three model species. Habitat preferences were subject to seasonal influences due to various requirements of different life stages. Other influencing factors were competition and predation due to Formicidae and larger individuals of Lycosidae. This demonstrates the high importance of structurally rich riverbeds with a mosaic of distinct habitat patches for the three representative species. Our findings are a valuable contribution for the conservation and management of braided rivers and their characteristic gravel bar biocoenosis.
Genomic analyses of fairy and fulmar prions (Procellariidae: Pachyptila spp.) reveals parallel evolution of bill morphology, and multiple species
Authors: Shepherd Lara D. , Miskelly Colin M. , Bulgarella Mariana , Tennyson Alan J. D.
Published: September 2022

Prions are small petrels that are abundant around the Southern Ocean. Here we use mitochondrial DNA (COI and cytochromeb) and nuclear reduced representation sequencing (ddRADseq) to examine the relationships within and between fairy (Pachyptila turtur) and fulmar (P.crassirostris) prions from across their distributions. We found that neither species was recovered as monophyletic, and that at least three species were represented. Furthermore, we detected several genetic lineages that are also morphologically distinct occurring in near sympatry at two locations (Snares Islands and Chatham Islands). The factors that have driven diversification in the fairy/fulmar prion complex are unclear but may include philopatry, differences in foraging distribution during breeding, differences in non-breeding distributions and breeding habitat characteristics. The observed distribution of genetic variation in the fairy/fulmar prion complex is consistent with population expansion from ice-free Last Glacial Maximum refugia into previously glaciated areas.
Daily level predictors of impaired driving behaviors in young adults: Protocol design for utilizing daily assessments
Authors: Hultgren Brittney A. , Guttmannova Katarina , Lee Christine M. , Acuna Daniela , Cooper Rachel L. , Kilmer Jason R. , Cadigan Jennifer M. , Calhoun Brian H. , Larimer Mary E.
Published: September 2022

Background

Motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death among young adults (ages 18–25) in the United States. Many drivers implicated in these crashes are under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or the simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis. Extremely limited research has assessed impaired driving behaviors and their predictors at the daily level. Perceived norms and motives to use substances have empirical support suggesting they may impact impaired driving-related behavior. Novel approaches to assess these associations at the daily level are needed and may inform future intervention and prevention programs.

Objective

The goal of the current study is to utilize electronic daily assessments to assess driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or simultaneous use and riding with a driver impaired by these substances to assess variability and predictors of these impaired driving-related behaviors at the daily level. This present manuscript details a protocol, measures, and a plan of analyses to assess how within-person differences in perceived norms and motives to use are associated with the likelihood of engaging in impaired driving-related behaviors.

Methods

Participants include young adults in Washington State who report simultaneous use in the past month and either driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or simultaneous use, or riding with a driver under the influence of both substances in the past 6 months. Individuals who verify their identity and meet eligibility requirements will complete a baseline assessment after which they will be scheduled for training on the daily assessment procedure via Zoom. Next, they will be invited to complete daily surveys on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday every other week for 6 months and a 6-month follow up assessment. Analyses will utilize multilevel models with days nested within individuals.

Results

The study is currently recruiting participants. A total of 192 participants have been recruited and 100 have completed the study protocol. Data collection is expected to be completed in Fall 2022.

Conclusions

This study utilizes a novel design to assess impaired driving and predictors at the daily level among young adults at high risk of impaired driving-related behaviors. Findings will provide unique data that will shape the knowledge base in the field of social science and public health substance use research and that may be helpful for future prevention and intervention efforts on impaired driving.
Gypsum, crop rotation, and cover crop impacts on soil organic carbon and biological dynamics in rainfed transitional no-till corn-soybean systems
Authors: Islam Khandakar R. , Dick Warren A. , Watts Dexter B. , Gonzalez Javier M. , Fausey Norman R. , Flanagan Dennis C. , Reeder Randall C. , VanToai Tara T. , Batte Marvin T.
Published: September 2022

Soil organic carbon (SOC), a core soil quality indicator, is influenced by management practices. The objective of our 2012–2016 study was to elucidate the impact of gypsum, crop rotation, and cover crop on SOC and several of its biological indicators under no-till in Alabama (Shorter), Indiana (Farmland), and Ohio (Hoytville and Piketon) in the USA. A randomized complete block design in factorial arrangement with gypsum (at 0, 1.1, and 2.2 Mg/ha annually), rye (Secale cereal L.) vs no cover crop, and rotation (continuous soybean [Glycine max (L) Merr., SS] vs corn [Zea mays, L.]-soybean, both the CS and SC phases) was conducted. Composite soils were collected (0–15 cm and 15–30 cm) in 2016 to analyze microbial biomass C (SMBC), SOC, total N, active C, cold and hot-water extractable C, C and N pool indices (CPI and NPI), and C management index (CMI). Results varied for main effects of gypsum, crop rotation, and cover crop on SOC pools, total N, and SOC lability within and across the sites. Gypsum at 2.2 Mg/ha increased SMBC within sites and by 41% averaged across sites. Likewise, gypsum increased SMBC:SOC, active C, and hot-water C (as indicators of labile SOC) averaged across sites. CS rotation increased SOC, active C, CPI, and CMI compared to SS, but decreased SMBC and SMBC:SOC within and across sites. CPI had a significant relationship with NPI across all sites (R2 = 0.90). Management sensitive SOC pools that responded to the combined gypsum (2.2 Mg/ha), crop rotation (CS), and cover crop (rye) were SMBC, SMBC:SOC, active C, and CMI via SMBC. These variables can provide an early indication of management-induced changes in SOC storage and its lability. Our results show that when SOC accumulates, its lability has decreased, presumably because the SMBC has processed all readily available C into a less labile form.
Assessment of minority frequency pretreatment HIV drug-resistant variants in pregnant women and associations with virologic non-suppression at term
Authors: Boyce Ceejay L. , Beck Ingrid A. , Styrchak Sheila M. , Hardy Samantha R. , Wallner Jackson J. , Milne Ross S. , Morrison R. Leavitt , Shapiro David E. , João Esaú C. , Mirochnick Mark H. , Frenkel Lisa M.
Published: September 2022

Objective

To assess in ART-naïve pregnant women randomized to efavirenz- versus raltegravir-based ART (IMPAACT P1081) whether pretreatment drug resistance (PDR) with minority frequency variants (<20% of individual’s viral quasispecies) affects antiretroviral treatment (ART)-suppression at term.

Design

A case-control study design compared PDR minority variants in cases with virologic non-suppression (plasma HIV RNA >200 copies/mL) at delivery to randomly selected ART-suppressed controls.

Methods

HIV pol genotypes were derived from pretreatment plasma specimens by Illumina sequencing. Resistance mutations were assessed using the HIV Stanford Database, and the proportion of cases versus controls with PDR to their ART regimens was compared.

Results

PDR was observed in 7 participants (11.3%; 95% CI 4.7, 21.9) and did not differ between 21 cases and 41 controls (4.8% vs 14.6%, p = 0.4061). PDR detected only as minority variants was less common (3.2%; 95% CI 0.2, 11.7) and also did not differ between groups (0% vs. 4.9%; p = 0.5447). Cases’ median plasma HIV RNA at delivery was 347c/mL, with most (n = 19/22) showing progressive diminution of viral load but not ≤200c/mL. Among cases with viral rebound (n = 3/22), none had PDR detected. Virologic non-suppression at term was associated with higher plasma HIV RNA at study entry (p<0.0001), a shorter duration of ART prior to delivery (p<0.0001), and randomization to efavirenz- (versus raltegravir-) based ART (p = 0.0085).

Conclusions

We observed a moderate frequency of PDR that did not significantly contribute to virologic non-suppression at term. Rather, higher pretreatment plasma HIV RNA, randomization to efavirenz-based ART, and shorter duration of ART were associated with non-suppression. These findings support early prenatal care engagement of pregnant women and initiation of integrase inhibitor-based ART due to its association with more rapid suppression of plasma RNA levels. Furthermore, because minority variants appeared infrequent in ART-naïve pregnant women and inconsequential to ART-suppression, testing for minority variants may be unwarranted.
Formalizing the fundamental Faustian bargain: Inefficacious decision-makers sacrifice their freedom of choice to coercive leaders for economic security
Authors: DeCaro Daniel A. , DeCaro Marci S. , Hotaling Jared M. , Appel Rachel
Published: September 2022

Individuals typically prefer the freedom to make their own decisions. Yet, people often trade their own decision control (procedural utility) to gain economic security (outcome utility). Decision science has not reconciled these observations. We examined how decision-makers’ efficacy and security perceptions influence when, why, and how individuals exchange procedural and outcome utility. Undergraduate adults (N= 77;Mage= 19.45 years; 73% female; 62% Caucasian, 13% African American) were recruited from the psychology participant pool at a midwestern U.S. metropolitan university. Participants made financial decisions in easy and hard versions of a paid card task resembling a standard gambling task, with a learning component. During half the trials, they made decisions with a No-Choice Manager who controlled their decisions, versus a Choice Manager who granted decision control. The hard task was designed to be too difficult for most participants, undermining their efficacy and security, and ensuring financial losses. The No-Choice Manager was designed to perform moderately well, ensuring financial gains. Participants felt greater outcome satisfaction (utility) for financial gains earned via Choice, but not losses. Participants (85%) preferred the Choice manager in the easy task but preferred the No-Choice Manager (56%) in the hard task. This change in preference for choice corresponded with self-efficacy and was mediated by perceived security. We used Decision Field Theory to develop potential cognitive models of these decisions. Preferences were best described by a model that assumed decision-makers initially prefer Choice, but update their preference based on loss-dependent attentional focus. When they earned losses (hard task), decision-makers focused more on economic payoffs (financial security), causing them to deemphasize procedural utility. Losses competed for attention, pulling attention toward economic survivability and away from the inherent value of choice. Decision-makers are more likely to sacrifice freedom of choice to leaders they perceive as efficacious to alleviate perceived threats to economic security.
Curcumin-loaded nanocomplexes ameliorate the severity of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in hamsters infected with Opisthorchis viverrini
Authors: Sitthirach Chutima , Charoensuk Lakhanawan , Pairojkul Chawalit , Chaidee Apisit , Intuyod Kitti , Pongking Thatsanapong , Thongpon Phonpilas , Jantawong Chanakan , Hongsrichan Nuttanan , Waraasawapati Sakda , Yingklang Manachai , Pinlaor Somchai
Published: September 2022

Background

Comorbidity ofOpisthorchis viverrini(OV) infection and nonalcoholic fatty-liver disease (NAFLD) enhances NAFLD progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by promoting severe liver inflammation and fibrosis. Here, we investigated the effect of supplementation with curcumin-loaded nanocomplexes (CNCs) on the severity of NASH in hamsters.

Methodology

Hamsters were placed in experimental groups as follows: fed standard chow diet (normal control, NC); fed only high-fat and high-fructose (HFF) diet;O.viverrini-infected and fed HFF diet (HFFOV); group fed with blank nanocomplexes (HFFOV+BNCs); groups fed different doses of CNCs (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight: HFFOV+CNCs25; HFFOV+CNCs50; HFFOV+CNCs100, respectively) and a group given native curcumin (HFFOV+CUR). All treatment were for three months.

Results

The HFF group revealed NAFLD as evidenced by hepatic fat accumulation, ballooning, mild inflammation and little or no fibrosis. These changes were more obvious in the HFFOV group, indicating development of NASH. In contrast, in the HFFOV+CNCs50 group, histopathological features indicated that hepatic fat accumulation, cell ballooning, cell inflammation and fibrosis were lower than in other treatment groups. Relevantly, the expression of lipid-uptake genes, including fatty-acid uptake (cluster of differentiation 36), was reduced, which was associated with the lowering of alanine aminotransferase, total cholesterol and triglyceride (TG) levels. Reduced expression of an inflammation marker (high-mobility group box protein 1) and a fibrosis marker (alpha smooth-muscle actin) were also observed in the HFFOV+CNCs50 group.

Conclusion

CNCs treatment attenuates the severity of NASH by decreasing hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis as well as TG synthesis. CNCs mitigate the severity of NASH in this preclinical study, which indicates promise for future use in patients.
Not the same CURE: Student experiences in course-based undergraduate research experiences vary by graduate teaching assistant
Authors: Goodwin Emma C. , Cary Jessica R. , Shortlidge Erin E.
Published: September 2022

To expose all undergraduate science students to the benefits of participating in research, many universities are integrating course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) into their introductory biology laboratory curriculum. At large institutions, the bulk of introductory labs are instructed by graduate teaching assistants (GTAs). Graduate students, who are often teachers and researchers in training, may vary in their capacity to effectively teach undergraduates via the CURE model. To explore variation in GTA teaching and the subsequent outcomes for students, we used a case study research design at one institution where introductory biology students participate in GTA-taught CURE lab sections. We used multiple data sources, including in-class focus groups, worksheets, and surveys to explore student perceptions of the GTA-led CURE. Students perceived variation both in the ability of their GTAs to create a supportive and comfortable learning environment, and in the instructional priorities of their GTAs. We also compared student and GTA perspectives of student engagement with research elements in the CURE. While GTAs were divided in their perceptions of whether the CURE provided students with the opportunity to experience the element of relevant discovery, most students—regardless of their GTA—did not perceive that relevant discovery was emphasized in the CURE. Finally, individual GTAs seemed to influence how students perceived why they were participating in the CURE. These data imply that students in CUREs may have vastly different and potentially inequitable research experiences depending on their instructor.
Changes of metabolic parameters in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism of different age groups
Authors: Bibik E. E. , Gorbacheva A. M. , Dobreva E. A. , Elfimova A. R. , Eremkina A. K. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown a high incidence of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). PHPT is usually diagnosed in people of age over 50 years and therefore age-associated changes of metabolism should be excluded. Researching predictors of cardiovascular pathology contributes to choosing optimal approaches to personalized patient management.

AIM: To determine the features of metabolic disorders in patients of various age groups with confirmed active stage of PHPT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A single-center observational retrospective comparative study of patients with active PHPT at the age of 18-49 years (Group 1, n=66) and over 50 years (Group 2, n=290) was carried out. The exclusion criteria for both groups were: persistent PHPT or recurrence after surgical treatment of the disease in history; clinical/genetically confirmed multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome; for Group 1 — pregnancy, lactation. The assessment of laboratory parameters of mineral, carbohydrate, fat and purine metabolism obtained during a hospital examination was carried out, the frequencies of various metabolic disorders were determined and compared between age groups.

RESULTS: There were no significant differences in parathyroid hormone and serum calcium levels between age groups, however, there were more severe hypercalciuria, a tendency to active bone metabolism and lower vitamin D level in Group 1. Patients of Group 2 had statistically significantly lower glomerular filtration rate and a higher frequency of bone complications. In the same group glycaemia and triglycerides levels were higher (the latter difference has the level of a statistical tendency). These patients also had a higher body mass index and, as a result, a higher incidence of obesity (37% vs 20%, p=0.006) and diabetes mellitus type 2 (12.5% vs 3%, p=0.013). At the same time, patients did not significantly differ in the rates of hypercholesterolemia (62% in Group 1 vs 70% in Group 2, p=0.228), hypertriglyceridemia (27% vs 32%, p=0.433) and hyperuricemia (42% vs 50%, p=0.302), significantly exceeding similar indicators in the general Russian population.

CONCLUSION: Carbohydrate disorders are more often observed in patients older than 50 years, providing an increased prevalence of diabetes mellitus type 2 among patients with PHPT compared with the general population. The high incidence of various types of dyslipidemia and hyperuricemia in the primary parathyroid pathology has no age specific features. Thereby these disorders are significant risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, even in young people with PHPT.
Sowing depth and light intensity in the emergence and development of monocotyledonous weeds
Authors: Fagundes Marques Ricardo , Souza Guilherme Sasso Ferreira , Pereira Maria Renata Rocha , Roberto de Marchi Sidnei , Martins Dagoberto
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different sowing depths and light intensities on the emergence and development of the monocot weed species, Urochloa decumbens and Cenchrus echinatus, under field conditions. Each species constituted an experiment, and the experimental design was completely randomized with four replicates. The treatments were arranged in a 6 x 4 factorial scheme, with six sowing depths (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0, 8.0, and 12.0 cm) associated with four solar radiation intensities (100%, 70%, 50%, and 30%) obtained through the use of shading screens. Seedling emergence capacity was evaluated daily to obtain the emergence percentage and speed index. Plant height, floral induction time, and plant dry matter at flowering were measured. Even when subjected to different solar radiation intensities, U. decumbens and C. echinatus seedlings emerged at all the sowing depths. Sowing between 2.0- and 4.0-cm depths favored the emergence of seedlings of U. decumbens and C. echinatus. However, sowing at 12-cm depth reduced the emergence of both species regardless of the solar radiation intensity. Urichloa decumbens plants grown under conditions of greater shading showed the lowest values of height and dry matter accumulation during flowering. High levels of shading facilitated only the etiolation of C. echinatus plants. Increased shading flowering time in both species compared to full sunlight.
Does a high or moderate nutritional supplementation affect the puberty and productive performance of Nellore heifers?
Authors: Mata Vanessa Jaqueline Veloso da , Oliveira Luis Rennan Sampaio de , Detmann Edenio , Alves Kaliandra Souza , Mezzomo Rafael , Lacerda Natália Gomes , Santana Kharina Romana da Silva , Gomes Daiany Iris
Published: September 2022

The effects of higher supplementation levels for young Nellore heifers fed tropical forages including their influence on puberty, need to be understood. This study investigated the influence of high and moderate supplementation levels on puberty onset and the productive performance of Nellore heifers. Thirty-six Nellore heifers (225 + 3.52 kg) were used in a completely randomized design, with three treatments: (I) no concentrate (control); (II) concentrate supplement at 4 g/kg body weight (BW); (III) concentrate supplement at 8 g/kg BW. Increased supplement level led to a linear increase in average daily gain (P < 0.05). The high supplementation level (8 g/kg BW) had the highest proportion of corpus luteum presence (82% of heifers), compared to the 4 g/kg BW treatment group (67%) and the control group (33%; P < 0.05). Our findings indicate that providing a high level of energy supplementation to Nellore heifers for approximately 100 d improves performance and increases the proportion of heifers that reach puberty