bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methyl Jasmonate-Treated Pepper (Capsicum annuumL.) Depresses Performance and Alters Activities of Protective, Detoxification and Digestive Enzymes of Green Peach Aphid [Myzus persicae(Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)]
Authors: Zhan Xue , Liu Ying , Liang Xiao , Wu Chunling , Liu Xiaoqiang , Shui Jun , Zhang Yao , Wang Ying , Chen Qing
Published: December 2022

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) is a phytohormone that has been used to artificially induce plant resistance against multiple arthropod herbivores. However, it is still uncertain whether MeJA can trigger pepper plant resistance against Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) (green peach aphid, GPA). In this study, we assessed the effects of different concentrations (0, 0.008, 0.04, 0.2, 1.0, and 5.0 mM) of MeJA-treated pepper on the development and reproduction performance of GPA to identify an appropriate concentration for vigorous resistance enhancement. MeJA dose was applied on the pepper to investigate the changes in activities of protective enzyme (superoxide dismutase, SOD; catalase, CAT; peroxidase, POD and polyphenol oxidase, PPO), detoxification enzymes (acetylcholinesterase, AchE; glutathione S-transferase, GSTs; cytocrome P450, CYP450, and carboxylesterase, CarE), and digestive enzymes (protease, PRO and amylase, AMY) in GPA. The results showed that all concentrations of MeJA-treated pepper significantly suppressed GPA performance, wherein 0.2 mM was the optimal concentration, as it presented the lowest intrinsic rate of increase (rm), finite rate of increase (λ), and the highest population doubling time (Dt) values. Furthermore, the protective enzymes (SOD and CAT), detoxification enzymes (GSTs, CYP450, and CarE), and AMY activities increased significantly in MeJA-treated groups than the control group, while the POD and PPO activities were remarkly inhibited under 0.2 mM treatment. These findings indicate that exogenous spraying of 0.2 mM of MeJA significantly enhanced pepper resistance against GPA. The result of this study suggests MeJA application can be used as a promising strategy in integrative management of this insect pest.
Lethal Effects of Imergard WP, a Perlite-based Dust, onAmblyomma americanum(Ixodida: Ixodidae) Larvae and Nymphs
Authors: Showler Allan T , Harlien Jessica L
Published: December 2022

As resistance in economically and medically important ixodids (hard ticks, Ixodida: Ixodidae) to conventional synthetic toxin-based acaricides has become increasingly widespread, research efforts to identify alternative control tactics have intensified. Laboratory bioassays on the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum (L.), as a model for other ixodid species, were conducted to assess the efficiency of Imergard WP perlite-based dust versus CimeXa, a silica gel-based insecticidal product that is highly effective against ixodid larvae and nymphs. Each of the two inert desiccant dusts immobilized A. americanum larvae and nymphs within 4–6 h, and killed 100% of the ixodids by 24 h after contact by brief immersion in dry dusts, and after they crawled ≈7.3 cm across a filter paper disc treated with the dusts. Contact by crawling on a dried aqueous film of the dusts, however, did not immobilize and kill the ixodids by 24 h. Similar to silica gel-based desiccant dust, dry perlite-based Imergard WP dust might prophylactically protect cattle and other animals from medically and agriculturally important ixodid pests. Perlite can potentially be stored indefinitely, it can retain its lethal properties for as long as adequate amounts remain on a substrate, and it might be acceptable for limited application in environmentally sensitive habitats.
Detection of anisotropic satellite quenching in galaxy clusters up to z ∼ 1
Authors: Ando Makoto , Shimasaku Kazuhiro , Ito Kei
Published: December 2022

Satellite galaxies in the cluster environment are more likely to be quenched than galaxies in the general field. Recently, it has been reported that satellite galaxy quenching depends on the orientation relative to their central galaxies: satellites along the major axis of centrals are more likely to be quenched than those along the minor axis. In this paper, we report a detection of such anisotropic quenching up to z ∼ 1 based on a large optically selected cluster catalogue constructed from the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program. We calculate the quiescent satellite galaxy fraction as a function of orientation angle measured from the major axis of central galaxies and find that the quiescent fractions at 0.25 < z < 1 are reasonably fitted by sinusoidal functions with amplitudes of a few per cent. Anisotropy is clearer in inner regions (r200m). We also confirm that the observed anisotropy cannot be explained by differences in local galaxy density or stellar mass distribution along the two axes. Quiescent fraction excesses between the two axes suggest that the quenching efficiency contributing to the anisotropy is almost independent of stellar mass, at least down to our stellar mass limit of $M_{*}=1\times 10^{10}\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$. Finally, we argue that the physical origins of the observed anisotropy should have shorter quenching time-scales than $\sim 1\, \mathrm{Gyr}$, like ram-pressure stripping, because, for anisotropic quenching to be observed, satellites must be quenched before their initial orientation angles are significantly changed.
Laboratory rotational spectroscopy and astronomical search of ethynyl substituted naphthalene
Authors: Cabezas Carlos , Peña Isabel , Cernicharo José
Published: December 2022

The recent interstellar detection of cyanonaphthalenes brings interest in related aromatic molecular species that could be present in similar astronomical environments. In this context, ethynyl derivatives of naphthalene are promising candidates to be observed in the Taurus Molecular Cloud (TMC-1), where cyanonaphthalenes together with cyano- and ethynyl-derivatives of cyclopentadiene and benzene have been detected. To enable the interstellar searches for ethynyl derivatives of naphthalene, their pure rotational spectra need to be investigated in the laboratory. We have observed for the first time the rotational spectra of 1- and 2-ethynylnaphthalene species using a broad-band Fourier-transform microwave spectrometer operating in the 2–8 GHz frequency region. Accurate spectroscopic parameters are derived from the analysis of the experimental spectra, allowing for reliable predictions for astronomical searches. Our searches in TMC-1 for both isomers provide upper limits for the abundances of these species.
Towards the impact of GMC collisions on the star formation rate
Authors: Hunter Glen H , Clark Paul C , Glover Simon C O , Klessen Ralf S
Published: December 2022

Collisions between giant molecular clouds (GMCs) are one of the pathways for massive star formation due to the high densities created. However, the enhancement of the star formation rate (SFR) is not well constrained. In this study, we perform a parameter study of cloud–cloud collisions and investigate how the resulting SFR depends on the details of set-up. Our parameter study explores variations in collision speed, magnetic field inclination (with respect to the collisional axis), and resolution, as defined by the number of cells per Jeans length. In all our collision simulations, we find a factor of 2–3 increase in the SFR compared to our no collision simulation, with star formation beginning sooner with (a) high collisional velocities, (b) parallel orientation between the magnetic field and collision axis, (c) and lower resolution. The mean virial parameter of high density (and thus possible star-forming) gas increases with collisional velocity, but has little variation with magnetic field inclination. The alignment of the velocity and magnetic field remains uniform in low-density environments but becomes more perpendicular with increasing density, indicating the compression of the magnetic field by collapsing gas. Comparing the trends in the SFR with other GMC collision studies, we find good agreement with studies that account for the gravitational boundedness of the gas in their star formation algorithm, but not with those that simply form stars above a prescribed density threshold. This suggests that the latter approach should be used with caution when modelling star formation on resolved cloud scales.
Dissecting the active galactic nucleus in Circinus – III. VLT/FORS2 polarimetry confirms dusty cone illuminated by a tilted accretion disc
Authors: Stalevski Marko , González-Gaitán Santiago , Savić Đorđe , Kishimoto Makoto , Mourão Ana , Lopez-Rodriguez Enrique , Asmus Daniel
Published: December 2022

We present polarimetric maps of the Circinus galaxy nucleus in the BVRI bands, obtained with VLT/FORS2. Circinus is the closest Seyfert 2 galaxy and harbours an archetypal obscured active galactic nucleus (AGN). Recent high angular resolution imaging revealed that a major fraction of its mid-infrared (MIR) emission is coming from the polar region. Previously, we demonstrated that these observations are consistent with a model of a compact dusty disc and a hyperboloid shell, resembling a hollow cone on larger scales. Here, we focus on the AGN core, up to 40 pc from the central engine, and compare the observations to the radiative transfer models. Polarization maps reveal a conical structure, coinciding with the ionization cone. The wavelength-dependence of the polarization degree indicates that scattering on dust grains is producing polarization. The observed polarization degree ($\approx 1-3{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$) is lower than predicted by the models; however, this is only a lower limit, since stellar emission dominates the total flux in the optical. The observed polarization angle (≈30°) is reproduced by the model of a dusty disc with a hollow cone that is illuminated by a tilted anisotropic central source. An accretion disc aligned with the ionization cone axis, and alternative dust geometries, such as a paraboloid shell, or a torus enveloped by ambient dust, are inconsistent with the data. We conclude that the optical polarimetric imaging supports earlier evidence for the presence of dust in the polar region, tentatively associated with dusty outflows.
Chromatic optical polarization of BL Lac: while faint and bright
Authors: Shablovinskaya Elena , Malygin Eugene , Oparin Dmitry
Published: December 2022

Due to the first results on astrophysical X-ray polarization provided by IXPE observatory, the interest in wavelength-dependent synchrotron polarization of BL Lac-type objects increases. This paper presents the results of multiband optical observations of the well-known blazar named BL Lac (z = 0.069) in polarized light. It was shown that the object’s emission, regardless of its phase of activity, is characterized by the intraday variability of brightness and polarization with changes occurring on a time-scale of up to 1.5 h without any stable oscillation period. Polarimetric observations in the different optical bands show that the degree and angle of polarization of the blazar depend on the wavelength, and the maximum chromatism, as well as the maximum observed polarization degree, was detected during the minimum brightness state; during the flare state, the polarization chromatism changed along with the flux gradient on the time-scale of an hour. Qualitatively, such behaviour can be described by the shock-in-jet model, yet the chromatism amplitude and its rapid changes differ significantly from the model predictions and challenge the numerical calculations.
Improving external shell volume estimation in snails using landmark-based size measurements
Authors: Osborne Teresa Rose , Stehman Stephen V
Published: December 2022

Shell images in digital collections and publications enable taxonomically, geographically and morphologically broad approaches to studying gastropod body size. Because traditional linear size measurements are not directly comparable across morphologically disparate taxa, we propose a transition to landmark-based size measurements, which are less sensitive to shape differences. Traditional and landmark-based size measurements were compared using two study systems: 36 specimens of diplommatinid micromolluscs from the Belau archipelago and 66 marine, freshwater and terrestrial gastropod shells from the Roosevelt Wild Life Collections (RWLC; housed at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Syracuse, NY, USA). Belau diplommatinids were used to assess the effectiveness of size measurements when comparing confamilial specimens. This study system was most sensitive to methodologically introduced variance. RWLC shells were used to assess measurement effectiveness when comparing morphologically disparate taxa. A total of seven size variables measured from 2D images were compared, three variables based on interlandmark distances and four based on linear shell dimensions. Landmark-based size measurements were centroid size, a proposed new measurement dubbed size adjusted mean (SAM) and its rescaled version, SAM1/3. The linear dimension-based measurements were maximum, mean and geometric mean of shell height and width, as well as conical volume (volume of a cone with similar dimensions to specimen). Measurement accuracy was assessed by regressing external shell volume against each size measurement. For Belau diplommatinids, centroid size and maximum shell dimension most accurately predicted external shell volume. For RWLC shells, conical volume followed by SAM1/3 and geometric mean shell dimension were the most accurate predictors. Repeatability was assessed by computing % measurement error (%ME). Maximum shell dimension was most repeatable (%ME = 4.19%) for Belau diplommatinids, followed by centroid size (7.76%). Conical volume (%ME = 0.0039%) and maximum shell dimension (0.0073%) were most repeatable for RWLC shells. In both study systems, SAM1/3 was the land-mark-based size measurement most robust to missing landmarks, followed by centroid size. Based on these findings, we recommend using centroid size to compare congeneric or confamilial specimens and using conical volume to compare morphologically or taxonomically disparate specimens. However, conical volume could not be calculated when shell height or width data are unavailable. In such cases, we recommend comparing morphologically disparate shells using SAM1/3.
Pancan-MNVQTLdb: systematic identification of multi-nucleotide variant quantitative trait loci in 33 cancer types
Authors: Wang Dongyang , Cao Wen , Yang Wenqian , Jin Weiwei , Luo Haohui , Niu Xiaohui , Gong Jing
Published: December 2022

Multi-nucleotide variants (MNVs) are defined as clusters of two or more nearby variants existing on the same haplotype in an individual. Recent studies have identified millions of MNVs in human populations, but their functions remain largely unknown. Numerous studies have demonstrated that single-nucleotide variants could serve as quantitative trait loci (QTLs) by affecting molecular phenotypes. Therefore, we propose that MNVs can also affect molecular phenotypes by influencing regulatory elements. Using the genotype data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we first identified 223 759 unique MNVs in 33 cancer types. Then, to decipher the functions of these MNVs, we investigated the associations between MNVs and six molecular phenotypes, including coding gene expression, miRNA expression, lncRNA expression, alternative splicing, DNA methylation and alternative polyadenylation. As a result, we identified 1 397 821 cis-MNVQTLs and 402 381 trans-MNVQTLs. We further performed survival analysis and identified 46 173 MNVQTLs associated with patient overall survival. We also linked the MNVQTLs to genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data and identified 119 762 MNVQTLs that overlap with existing GWAS loci. Finally, we developed Pancan-MNVQTLdb (http://gong_lab.hzau.edu.cn/mnvQTLdb/) for data retrieval and download. Pancan-MNVQTLdb will help decipher the functions of MNVs in different cancer types and be an important resource for genetic and cancer research.
“I Can’t Make Perfect Choices All the Time”: Perspectives on Tobacco Harm Reduction Among Young Adults Who Identify as Sexual and Gender Minorities
Authors: Antin Tamar M J , Sanders Emile , Lipperman-Kreda Sharon , Annechino Rachelle , Peterkin Elaina
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Cigarette smoking is among the most harmful ways to consume nicotine and tends to be concentrated among socially marginalized groups of people, including sexual and gender minorities (SGM). Though some approaches to tobacco control in the United States are harm reduction strategies (eg, smoke-free environments), often abstinence is an explicitly stated goal and discussions of tobacco harm reduction (THR) are controversial, particularly for young people. Despite this controversy in the tobacco field, emerging research suggests that THR may be gaining momentum as a “community-led” rather than “public health-led” health practice. To date, little is known about how SGM young adults negotiate their use of tobacco products, particularly in terms of minimizing the harms associated with smoking.

Aims and Methods

We conducted 100 in-depth interviews with SGM young adults ages 18–25 years living in the San Francisco Bay Area, to better understand participant perceptions and everyday practices related to THR.

Results

A thematic analysis of interview narratives revealed the ways in which participants relied upon various THR strategies while balancing their well-being within the context of broader socio-structural harms. Participants’ narratives also underscored beliefs about the importance of pragmatic, nonjudgmental, and person-centered approaches to preventing inequities in tobacco-related illnesses.

Conclusions

Findings represent a significant departure from the mainstream discourse in the U. S. surrounding THR, by revealing how understanding the practice of THR among SGM young adults who use nicotine and tobacco can be instrumental in shaping approaches to tobacco control policy and prevention that may ultimately help to reduce inequities in tobacco-related illnesses.

Implications

Findings from this study present the perspectives and practices of THR among sexual and gender minority young adults and emphasize the importance of integrating this approach in tobacco control to better achieve tobacco-related equity. Results can be used to better design tobacco prevention, treatment, and policy strategies that are compassionate and responsive to the needs of these important priority populations.
COVID-Specific Long-term Sequelae in Comparison to Common Viral Respiratory Infections: An Analysis of 17 487 Infected Adult Patients
Authors: Baskett William I , Qureshi Adnan I , Shyu Daniel , Armer Jane M , Shyu Chi-Ren
Published: December 2022

Background

A better understanding of long-term health effects after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has become one of the health care priorities in the current pandemic. We analyzed a large and diverse patient cohort to study health effects related to SARS-CoV-2 infection occurring >1 month postinfection.

Methods

We analyzed 17 487 patients who received diagnoses for SARS-CoV-2 infection in a total of 122 health care facilities in the United States before April 14, 2022. Patients were propensity score–matched with patients diagnosed with the common cold, influenza, or viral pneumonia from March 1, 2020, to April 1, 2021. For each outcome, SARS-CoV-2 was compared with a generic viral respiratory infection (VRI) by predicting diagnoses in the period between 30 and 365 days postinfection. Both coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and VRI patients were propensity score–matched with patients with no record of COVID-19 or VRI, and the same methodology was applied. Diagnoses where COVID-19 infection was a significant positive predictor in both COVID-19 vs VRI and COVID-19 vs control comparisons were considered COVID-19-specific effects.

Results

Compared with common VRIs, SARS-CoV-2 was associated with diagnoses of palpitations, hair loss, fatigue, chest pain, dyspnea, joint pain, and obesity in the postinfectious period.

Conclusions

We identify that some diagnoses commonly described as “long COVID” do not appear significantly more frequent post–COVID-19 infection compared with other common VRIs. We also identify sequelae that are specifically associated with a prior SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Substance Use Treatment Utilization Among Women With and Without Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Fujita Ayako W , Ramakrishnan Aditi , Mehta C Christina , Yusuf Oyindamola B , Wilson Tracey , Shoptaw Steven , Carrico Adam W , Adimora Adaora A , Eaton Ellen , Cohen Mardge H , Cohen Jennifer , Adedimeji Adebola , Plankey Michael , Jones Deborah , Chandran Aruna , Colasanti Jonathan A , Sheth Anandi N
Published: December 2022

Background

Substance use (SU) contributes to poor health outcomes, yet limited data exist to inform strategies to optimize SU treatment among persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We describe SU and SU treatment utilization among women with and without HIV in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS).

Methods

We included data from women enrolled in WIHS from 2013 to 2020. Current SU was self-reported, nonmedical use of drugs in the past year, excluding use of only marijuana. SU treatment utilization was self-reported use of a drug treatment program in the past year. Multivariable regression models were used to investigate associations between participant characteristics and SU treatment.

Results

Among 2559 women (1802 women living with HIV [WWH], 757 women without HIV), 14% reported current SU. Among those with current SU (n = 367), 71% reported crack/cocaine followed by 40% reporting opioids, and 42% reported any treatment in the past year. The most common treatments were methadone (64%), Narcotics Anonymous (29%), inpatient programs (28%), and outpatient programs (16%). Among women using opioids (n = 147), 67% reported methadone use in the past year compared to 5% using buprenorphine/naloxone. Multivariable analysis showed lower odds of treatment utilization among WWH with concurrent alcohol or marijuana use. Visiting a psychiatrist/counselor was associated with higher odds of treatment. Among WWH, SU treatment was not associated with HIV-related clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

Treatment utilization was high, especially for methadone use. Our results highlight opportunities for accessing SU treatment for WWH, such as the need to prioritize buprenorphine and comprehensive, wraparound services in HIV care settings.
Otosyphilis
Authors: Witt Lucy S , Wendy Fujita A , Ho Jeanne , Shin Yoo Mee , Kobaidze Ketino , Workowski Kimberly
Published: December 2022

Otosyphilis can be challenging to diagnose, but, if left unrecognized, it may cause irreversible damage. An immunologic interplay between syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) makes coinfection likely and may predispose people with HIV to neurosyphilis. In this study, we present a case of a man in his 50s with hearing loss and vertigo diagnosed with otosyphilis as well as a new diagnosis of HIV. This case and corresponding discussion serve to inform the noninfectious disease-trained clinician of the symptoms, diagnostics, and treatment options for otosyphilis as well as to discuss the relationship between HIV and syphilis and demonstrate the importance of disease recognition.
Integrated Infectious Disease and Substance Use Disorder Care for the Treatment of Injection Drug Use–Associated Infections: A Prospective Cohort Study With Historical Control
Authors: Serota David P , Rosenbloom Liza , Hervera Belén , Seo Grace , Feaster Daniel J , Metsch Lisa R , Suarez Edward , Chueng Teresa A , Hernandez Salma , Rodriguez Allan E , Tookes Hansel E , Doblecki-Lewis Susanne , Bartholomew Tyler S
Published: December 2022

Background

To address the infectious disease (ID) and substance use disorder (SUD) syndemic, we developed an integrated ID/SUD clinical team rooted in harm reduction at a county hospital in Miami, Florida. The Severe Injection-Related Infection (SIRI) team treats people who inject drugs (PWID) and provides medical care, SUD treatment, and patient navigation during hospitalization and after hospital discharge. We assessed the impact of the SIRI team on ID and SUD treatment and healthcare utilization outcomes.

Methods

We prospectively collected data on patients seen by the SIRI team. A diagnostic code algorithm confirmed by chart review was used to identify a historical control group of patients with SIRI hospitalizations in the year preceding implementation of the SIRI team. The primary outcome was death or readmission within 90 days post–hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes included initiation of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) and antibiotic course completion.

Results

There were 129 patients included in the study: 59 in the SIRI team intervention and 70 in the pre-SIRI team control group. SIRI team patients had a 45% risk reduction (aRR, 0.55 [95% confidence interval CI, .32–.95]; 24% vs 44%) of being readmitted in 90 days or dying compared to pre-SIRI historical controls. SIRI team patients were more likely to initiate MOUD in the hospital (93% vs 33%, P < .01), complete antibiotic treatment (90% vs 60%, P < .01), and less likely to have patient-directed discharge (17% vs 37%, P = .02).

Conclusions

An integrated ID/SUD team was associated with improvements in healthcare utilization, MOUD initiation, and antibiotic completion for PWID with infections.
Molecular Mechanisms of Plant Regeneration from Differentiated Cells: Approaches from Historical Tissue Culture Systems
Authors: Morinaka Hatsune , Coleman Duncan , Sugimoto Keiko , Iwase Akira
Published: December 2022

Plants can exert remarkable capacity for cell reprogramming even from differentiated cells. This ability allows plants to regenerate tissues/organs and even individuals in nature and in vitro. In recent decades, Arabidopsis research has uncovered molecular mechanisms of plant regeneration; however, our understanding of how plant cells retain both differentiated status and developmental plasticity is still obscure. In this review, we first provide a brief outlook of the representative modes of plant regeneration and key factors revealed by Arabidopsis research. We then re-examine historical tissue culture systems that enable us to investigate the molecular details of cell reprogramming in differentiated cells and discuss the different approaches, specifically highlighting our recent progress in shoot regeneration from the epidermal cell of Torenia fournieri.
How Mandatory Can We Make Vaccination?
Authors: Saunders Ben
Published: December 2022

The novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has refocused attention on the issue of mandatory vaccination. Some have suggested that vaccines ought to be mandatory, while others propose more moderate alternatives, such as incentives. This piece surveys a range of possible interventions, ranging from mandates through to education. All may have their place, depending on circumstances. However, it is worth clarifying the options available to policymakers, since there is sometimes confusion over whether a particular policy constitutes a mandate or not. Further, I illustrate a different kind of alternative to mandatory vaccination. Rather than seeking less coercive alternatives to a mandate, we might instead employ an alternative mandate, which requires people to do something less than get vaccinated. For instance, we might merely require people to attend an appointment at a vaccine clinic. Whether this mandatory attendance policy is justified will depend on specific circumstances, but it represents another way to promote vaccination, without mandating it. In some cases, this may represent an appropriate balance between promoting public health goals and respecting individual liberty.
Phylogenomics Reveals that Mitochondrial Capture and Nuclear Introgression Characterize Skua Species Proposed to be of Hybrid Origin
Authors: Mikkelsen Else K , Weir Jason T
Published: December 2022

The skuas and jaegers (Stercorariidae) are an enigmatic family of seven seabird species that breed at Arctic and Antarctic latitudes. The phylogenetic relationships amongst the species have been controversial, with one of the biggest enigmas involving the Pomarine Jaeger (Stercorarius pomarinus), which has been proposed to represent a hybrid species originating from the merging of distant lineages within the complex. We inferred a phylogeny for the family using multispecies coalescent methods with whole-genome sequencing for all seven species of Stercorariidae, and document an evolutionary history rich in introgression. We uncover evidence for mitochondrial capture and nuclear introgression between S. pomarinus and Stercorarius skua, providing a potential avenue for adaptive introgression. One candidate for adaptive introgression is the MC1R plumage gene which appears to have introgressed from one of the large skuas into S. pomarinus, where it now forms the basis of the dark-morph color polymorphism of that species. We further highlight a complex biogeographical history of interchange between the Arctic and Antarctic, with unexpected close ancestry between S. skua of the northern hemisphere and Stercorarius antarcticus of the southern hemisphere. These results highlight the dynamic history of introgression during pelagic seabird radiation. [Incomplete lineage sorting; introgression; mitochondrial capture; phylogenomics; skua; species tree; stercorariidae; whole-genome resequencing.]
Local visualization of functions in work on optimization
Authors: López Silvia Soledad , Vivier Laurent
Published: December 2022

Optimization is introduced to teaching in secondary school, focussing on functions of one variable with the first derivative criterion for critical points and monotonicity of functions. The second derivative criterion is also used to determine the nature of the critical points. Similarly, in university-level teaching, algebraic work using criteria is the predominant approach adopted for optimization of two-variable functions, but with much less meaning than for one-variable functions. To recover meaning, we designed a learning situation based on local approximations with the first- and second-order Taylor polynomial, both for one- and two-variable functions. The results show that the local visualization for first-order Taylor approximation was quite easy for students to understand (curve and tangent), but local visualization for second-order Taylor approximation (curve and osculatory parabola) was much less so. We also identify a competition between local and global visualization processes, which constitutes a newly identified visualization phenomenon.
Do parents vaccinated against COVID-19 protect their children from hospitalization due to COVID-19?
Authors: Günes Ömer , Gülhan Belgin , Guney Ahmet Yasin , Üçkardeş Fatih , Ozen Seval , Guder Latife , Mustafaoglu Ozlem , Bayraktar Pinar , Yahşi Aysun , Erat Tuğba , Kanik-Yuksek Saliha , Bayhan Gulsum Iclal , Ozkaya-Parlakay Aslınur
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether parental vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevents hospitalization of COVID-19-infected children.

Methods

This study was based on data obtained from the records of pediatric patients that were followed up for virologically proven COVID-19 infection between August and October 2021, during which time the delta variant was dominant in Turkey and the children were isolating at home.

Results

There were 151 patients in the inpatient group and 218 in the outpatient group; the mean age was 172.5 and 145.5 months in the groups, respectively. The rates of obesity (22.5% and 6.4%, respectively, p < 0.001) and neurological–neurodevelopmental disorders (8.6% and 1.4%, respectively, p < 0.001) were significantly higher in the inpatient group than in the outpatient group. Of the outpatients’ parents, 67.4% (n = 147) were fully vaccinated vs. 38.4% (n = 58) in the inpatient group. In all, 39.7% (n = 60) of the inpatients’ parents were unvaccinated vs. 18.3% (n = 40) in the outpatient group. There was a significant correlation between the vaccination status and the patient groups (p < 0.001); it was determined that the COVID-19 infection would be mild in children if both parents were fully vaccinated. When both parents were fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the hospitalization rate decreased and the outpatient follow-up rate increased.

Conclusion

Having both parents fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can indirectly protect their subsequently infected children from hospitalization and the long-term effects of infection. Nonetheless, more comprehensive research on delta and non-delta variants is needed.
Research on the improvement of the LaneGCN trajectory prediction algorithm
Authors: Zhou Bing , Zou Junjun , Wu Xiaojian , Chai Tian , Zhou Renjie , Pan Qianxi , Zhou Ruixuan
Published: December 2022

The LaneGCN proposed by Uber has achieved good performance in trajectory prediction, but it has shortcomings in capturing long range information, expressing road information and modelling the strong and weak relationships of interaction between actors. In this paper, the LaneGCN is improved from three parts. Firstly, multi-scale long short-term memory is introduced to encode multi-scale trajectory information. Secondly, relative distance information is added to enhance the spatial expressive capacity of the model in the process of road information encoding. Finally, we build a weighted interaction model based on Graph Attention Networks in the process of road information encoding. In order to verify the performance of the improved model, ablation and comparison experiments are designed in this paper. The results showed that all the evaluation metrics are lower than the LaneGCN and the overall performance of the model is improved.
Regularity and sensitivity analysis of main parameters of plate effects on the aerodynamic braking drag of a high-speed train
Authors: Li Peng , Huang Sha , Liu Yong , Niu Jiqiang
Published: December 2022

With increase of train speed, braking plate technology has a good application prospect in the high-speed stage of the train. Based on the 1/8 scaled symmetrical train model composed of two half cars, the Reynolds Average Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations and Shear Stress Transfer (SST) k-ω turbulence model are adopted to simulate the aerodynamic performance of the train with plate. The aerodynamic drag dependence of single parameter of the plate (shape, area, angle, position and number) is analysed, and identification research of the main aerodynamic parameters of the plate is carried out. The numerical settings used in this paper are verified by wind tunnel test data. Results show that the braking plate with an aspect ratio of one has better performance on aerodynamic drag. The area, opening angle and number of plates are basically positively correlated with the total aerodynamic drag of the target car and plate. Arranging plates at the downstream of the vehicle is a good method of raising total aerodynamic drag. Within the range of plate parameter design in this paper, by using orthogonal design of experiment and the method of range analysis and analysis of variance, the influence degrees of plate parameters on aerodynamic drag are determined, and the order is number, area and opening angle of plate. The research results provide theoretical support for the design and safe operation of high-speed trains with aerodynamic braking plates.
Path-planning algorithms for self-driving vehicles based on improved RRT-Connect
Authors: Li Jin , Huang Chaowei , Pan Minqiang
Published: December 2022

This study aims to solve path planning of intelligent vehicles in self-driving. In this study, an improved path-planning method combining constraints of the environment and vehicle is proposed. The algorithm designs a reasonable path cost function, then uses a heuristic guided search strategy to improve the speed and quality of path planning, and finally generates smooth and continuous curvature paths based on the path post-processing method focusing on the requirements of path smoothness. A simulation test shows that compared with the basic rapidly-exploring random tree (RRT), RRT-Connect and RRT* algorithms, the path length of the proposed algorithm can be reduced by 19.7%, 29.3% and 1% respectively, and the maximum planned path curvature of the proposed algorithm is 0.0796 m-1 and 0.1512 m-1 respectively, under the condition of a small amount of planning time. The algorithm can plan the more suitable driving path for intelligent vehicles in a complex environment.
Fault diagnosis of railway point machines based on wavelet transform and artificial immune algorithm
Authors: Wu Xiaochun , Yang Weikang , Cao Jianrong
Published: December 2022

Aiming at the current problems of high failure rate and low diagnostic efficiency of railway point machines (RPMs) in the railway industry, a short-time method of fault diagnosis is proposed. Considering the effect of noise on power signals in the data acquisition process of the railway centralized signaling monitoring (CSM) system, this study utilizes wavelet threshold denoising to eliminate interference. The results show that the accuracy of fault diagnosis can be improved by 4.4% after denoising the power signals. Then in order to attain a lighter weight and shorten the running time of the diagnosis model, Mallat wavelet decomposition and artificial immune algorithm are applied to RPM fault diagnosis. Finally, voluminous experiments using veritable power signals collected from CSM are introduced, which show that combining these methods can procure higher precision of RPMs and curtail fault diagnosis time. This substantiates the validity and feasibility of the presented approach.
CE: Evidence-Based Practice for Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Management
Authors: Ray-Barruel Gillian , Alexander Mary
Published: December 2022

Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are among the most common invasive devices used in hospitalized patients, with over 300 million sold in the United States each year. However, about one-fourth of PIVCs are left in situ with no prescriber orders for IV medications or solutions, “just in case” they might be needed. PIVC insertion can be painful, is often unnecessary, and may increase a patient's risk of developing a bloodstream infection. This article reviews the evidence for the appropriate use of short PIVCs in hospitalized patients, assesses the ongoing need for PIVCs, provides recommendations for alternative options, and argues for promptly removing a PIVC that is no longer in use.
The Top Nursing News Story of 2022: Acute Care Workforce Under Stress
Authors: Kennedy Maureen Shawn
Published: December 2022

Weak institutional support hampers nursing's recovery from COVID.
Global Hunger
Authors: Roush Karen
Published: December 2022

A result of war, COVID-19, and climate change.
The ABCs of DEI
Authors: Bowen Felesia
Published: December 2022

An overview of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and why they're important for nursing.
Ethical Care for Patients with Self-Managed Abortion After Roe
Authors: Manns-James Laura , Pfeifer Kelly , Gillmor-Kahn Mickey
Published: December 2022

The 2022 Supreme Court decision leaving the regulation of abortion to the states is sure to result in a complex regulatory environment for patients and nurses. In states where abortion is illegal, patients may self-manage abortions using medications they obtain through the mail or by other means. Nurses may care for these patients in multiple settings and may wonder about their own legal and ethical obligations. This article reviews patient privacy as it relates to self-managed abortion, ethical reporting requirements for nurses, and best practices for treating complications of self-managed abortion using a harm reduction framework, with a focus on protecting patients' rights. Recommendations for ethical patient care are also provided.
Improving the Validity of Causal Inferences in Observational Studies
Authors: Capili Bernadette , Anastasi Joyce K.
Published: December 2022

Editor's note: This is the 13th article in a series on clinical research by nurses. The series is designed to be used as a resource for nurses to understand the concepts and principles essential to research. Each column will present the concepts that underpin evidence-based practice—from research design to data interpretation. To see all the articles in the series, go to https://links.lww.com/AJN/A204.
Addressing CAUTIs with an External Female Catheter
Authors: Tran Christine , Rodrigue Debra , Jones Tasina , Bell Natalie
Published: December 2022

Background:

Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) can lead to complications that prolong hospital stays and result in patient discomfort as well as increased health care costs and mortality. At our academic medical center in New York City, in 2016-17, 21 of 87 CAUTI cases (24%) were in bedbound female patients in whom indwelling catheters were used for incontinence. Although condom catheters were available as an alternative to indwelling urinary catheters for male patients, there was a lack of effective products for female patients.

Methods:

A team of clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) conducted a literature search, reviewed internal data on CAUTI rates and catheter use, and searched for available catheter alternatives that would meet the needs of bedbound female patients. The team identified two different external female urinary catheters and piloted both with a focus on efficacy as well as stakeholder satisfaction.

Results:

In 2019-20, external female catheters were used in 1,195 unique patients. Approximately 90% of external female catheter use was to avoid using an indwelling urinary catheter. With a cost avoidance of $13,786 per patient, $16,473,912 in costs to the organization were avoided. CAUTI rates in bedbound female patients decreased after implementation of the external female catheters.

Conclusion:

This initiative demonstrates that external female urinary catheters can be used at other hospitals to decrease indwelling urinary catheter use and CAUTI rates in bedbound female patients.
Hand Hygiene Compliance Decreases as Workload Increases
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: December 2022

According to this study:

Hand hygiene compliance decreased significantly in the ICU setting when the number of hand hygiene opportunities exceeded 30 per hour.

Adequate staffing during higher workload periods is needed to ensure that health care providers maintain a high level of hand hygiene compliance.
‘Death’ Rarely Used in Family Discussions About Critically Ill Infants
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: December 2022

According to this study:

In family meetings between clinicians and the parents of critically ill infants, medical jargon and other types of euphemisms are used more often than the words die, death, dying, or stillborn.
Less Hypoglycemia with Liberal Approach to Blood Glucose Management in Critically Ill Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: December 2022

According to this study:

In critically ill patients who have type 2 diabetes, a liberal approach to blood glucose management reduced incident hypoglycemia but didn't improve patient-centered outcomes compared with usual care.
Lessons from a Patient on Not Cutting Corners
Authors: Byrd Stephanie
Published: December 2022

An inexperienced NP pushes past her self-doubt to ask the hard questions.
Supporting Interprofessional Collaboration in Deprescribing: Needs Assessment for an Education Program
Authors: Kennie-Kaulbach Natalie , Gormley Hannah , McSweeney-Flaherty Jill Marie , Cassidy Christine , Kits Olga , Trenaman Shanna , Isenor Jennifer E.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

: Deprescribing is a complex process involving patients and healthcare providers. The aim of the project was to examine the learning needs and preferences of healthcare providers and students to inform the development of an interprofessional deprescribing education program.

Methods

: An online survey of pharmacists, nurses, nurse practitioners, family physicians, and associated students practicing or studying in Nova Scotia was conducted. Respondents were recruited by purposive and snowball sampling to have at least five respondents within each professional/student group. Questions captured participant's self-reported comfort level and professional role for 12 deprescribing tasks and their learning preferences.

Results

: Sixty-nine respondents (46 healthcare providers and 23 students) completed the questionnaire. Average comfort levels for all 12 deprescribing tasks ranged from 40.22 to 78.90 of 100. Respondents reported their preferred deprescribing learning activities as watching videos and working through case studies. Healthcare providers preferred to learn asynchronously online, while students preferred a mix of online and in-person delivery.

Discussion

: Learning needs related to deprescribing tasks and roles were identified, as well as preferences for format and delivery of education. Development of an education program that can provide a shared understanding of collaborative deprescribing tailored to learner preferences may improve deprescribing in practice.
Provider Educational Needs and Preferences Regarding Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care in a Pediatric Health System
Authors: Kirkpatrick Laura , Sharp Eleanor , Abdul-Al Ahmed , McCormick Andrew , Matheo Loreta , Kazmerski Traci M.
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

There is limited evidence on educational needs and preferences of pediatric health care professionals regarding transition from pediatric to adult health care.

Methods:

We distributed an anonymous online survey to physicians and advanced practice providers at a large, free-standing children's hospital and associated primary care network to assess attitudes, practices, and educational preferences about transition. We analyzed data with descriptive statistics, chi-square, and logistic regression.

Results:

A total of 178 providers responded (20% response rate) across 31 specialties (66% attending physicians, 19% fellows, and 15% advanced practice providers). Less than half (43%) were comfortable in their knowledge of transition, with fellows reporting significantly lower comfort than attendings (P < .05). In total, 47% reported annually discussing transition with their patients (fellows: 17% vs. attendings: 50%, P < .05). Educational topics of greatest interest included legal (71%) and financial concerns (69%), whereas preferred educational formats included Grand Rounds/lectures (68%) and webinars (63%). Facilitators to transition included lists of local adult providers for transition (89%), parent/family educational resources (88%), and a medical summary template in the electronic health record (85%).

Discussion:

Major gaps exist in attitudes and practices related to transition. Identified educational strategies may serve as targets to improve the transition process through educational interventions.