bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived balance and self‐reported falls: A retrospective cross‐sectional study using the National Health and Aging Trend Study
Authors: Dolan Hanne , Pohl Janet , Pituch Keenan , Coon David W.
Published: January 2024

Aims

To examine how perceived balance problems are associated with self‐reported falls in the past month after controlling for known correlates of falls among older adults.

Background

Approximately 30% of adults age 65 and older fall each year. Most accidental falls are preventable, and older adults' engagement in fall prevention is imperative. Limited research suggest that older adults do not use the term ‘fall risk’ to describe their risk for falls. Instead, they commonly use the term ‘balance problems’. Yet, commonly used fall risk assessment tools in both primary and acute care do not assess older adults' perceived balance.

Design and Method

The Health Belief Model and the concept of perceived susceptibility served as the theoretical framework. A retrospective, cross‐sectional secondary analysis using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study from year 2015 was conducted. The outcome variable was self‐reported falls in the last month.

Results

A subsample of independently living participants (N = 7499) was selected, and 10.3% of the sample reported a fall. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds of reporting a fall in the past month was 3.4 times (p < .001) greater for participants who self‐reported having a balance problem compared to those who did not. In contrast, fear of falling and perceived memory problems were not uniquely associated with falls. Using a mobility device, reporting pain, poor self‐rated health status, depression and anxiety scores were also associated with falling.

Conclusion and Implications

Older adults' perceived balance problem is strongly associated with their fall risk. Perceived balance may be important to discuss with older adults to increase identification of fall risk. Older adults' perceived balance should be included in nursing fall risk assessments and fall prevention interventions. A focus on balance may increase older adults' engagement in fall prevention.
Racism underlies seemingly race‐neutral conservative criticisms of DEI statements among Black and White people in the United States
Authors: Folberg Abigail M. , Dueland Laura Brooks , Swanson Matthew , Stepanek Sarah , Hebl Mikki , Ryan Carey S.
Published: January 2024

We examined how potential job candidates react to a hiring organization that requests diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) statements, which conservatives in the United States and elsewhere have criticized as being unrelated to job function and inappropriately political or ideological. Across three studies (two of which were pre‐registered), we compared reactions to requests for DEI (vs. teamwork or conservative values) statements as a function of race (Black vs. White), political conservatism and symbolic racism (Total N = 1108). When a DEI (vs. teamwork or politically conservative values) statement was requested, participants who were more (vs. less) conservative perceived the organization as less just, expressed less interest in the job, and expected poorer person‐organization fit, even when a job‐related rationale was provided. Further, participants who were more (vs. less) conservative evaluated a request for a statement consistent with conservative values more favourably. Thus, criticisms that DEI statements are overly political are not applied to other statements that might elicit similar concerns. Moreover, an internal meta‐analysis suggested that the relationships of conservatism to justice and interest (but not person‐organization fit) in response to requests for DEI (vs. teamwork) statements were not independent of racism. Findings were consistent with social dominance theory; racism may underlie seemingly race‐neutral backlash to DEI statements.
Participation in the US Department of Agriculture's Summer Meal Programs: 2019‐2021
Authors: Burkholder Kara , Bennett Brooke L. , McKee Sarah L. , Cohen Juliana F.W. , Xu Ran , Schwartz Marlene B.
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

The US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) summer meal programs are designed to provide meals at no cost while school is out of session. In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, several regulatory waivers were enacted to facilitate meal distribution. The aim of this study was to assess the rates of meal distribution before and after these waivers were in effect.

METHODS

Meal distribution patterns for 2019, 2020, and 2021 were examined through (1) a descriptive comparison of the number of participating districts, sponsors, meal sites, and meals distributed statewide, and (2) repeated measures ANOVAs to examine changes among districts in operation all years.

RESULTS

The waivers were associated with an increase in the total number of participating districts, sponsors, and meal sites; an increase in the total number of meals distributed to children during the summer months; and an increase in meal distribution among sponsors that had been in place since 2019.

Conclusion

Expanding the area eligibility criteria and enabling flexibility in meal distribution methods increased the number of meals provided. This study provides important preliminary evidence to suggest that the USDA should consider permanent regulatory changes to this program to maximize its reach.
“Your Kid Has Potential, But They Need Sleep”: Teacher Perspectives on School‐Based Sleep Promotion in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Mellon Pamela , Montemurro Genevieve , Sulz Lauren , Torrance Brian , Storey Kate
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Insufficient sleep is a growing public health concern. Thirty percent of Canadian children and youth are not meeting national sleep recommendations. Inadequate sleep can negatively influence students' academics and physical and psychosocial health. Schools have been identified as ideal health promotion settings to influence children's health including their sleep behaviors. The objective of this study was to explore teachers' perspectives on sleep behaviors and their role in school‐based sleep promotion.

METHODS

Nineteen elementary teachers were purposively sampled from the greater Edmonton area, Alberta, Canada. Interpretive description was used as the guiding method, and data were generated through one‐on‐one semi‐structured interviews. Inductive descriptive thematic analysis was used to identify interview themes.

RESULTS

Three themes related to teachers' perspectives on sleep behaviors and school‐based sleep promotion were identified: the importance of students' sleep, prioritizing sleep as part of teaching and learning, and a culture of healthy sleep habits.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that teachers considered sleep to be essential for elementary students' academic success and wellbeing, and a whole school approach was necessary to support a healthy sleep culture in schools.
Breeding system and pollination ecology of an endangered desert shrub endemic to northwestern China
Authors: Su Zhihao , Zhuo Li , Min Xiaojun , Wang Xiyong
Published: January 2024

The breeding system and pollination ecology of Tamarix taklamakanensis, an endangered shrub occurring in sand dunes in the Taklamakan Desert, were examined by seven pollination treatments and observational studies in natural populations in 2019.

The results showed that T. taklamakanensis exhibits an outcrossed breeding system that is dominated by insect‐pollination. It is largely self‐incompatible, with infrequent occurrence of anemophily, but relies strictly on pollinators in outcrossing. The pollen vitality could last about six days versus the stigma receptivity last about one day. Two effective pollinators were detected, and the peaks of visitation were 10:30–13:30, 16:30–17:30 and 18:30–19:30 h. Seed set by artificial cross‐pollination was significantly higher than natural pollination rates, and seed set for a population with high insect visitation rates was significantly higher than a population with low visitation rate, suggesting that pollen limitation is an important constraint on seed production for this species. Adverse weather conditions and habitat fragmentation were speculated to be the primary factors affecting the insect visitation of T. taklamakanensis in the Taklimakan Desert.
Two new species of Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae, sect. Polymeres) from Pantabangan‐Carranglan Watershed Forest Reserve, Luzon Island, Philippines
Authors: Garrino Abigail L. , Mansibang Jayson A. , Ann M. Aumentado Jamie , Pin Ang Yu , Udasco Leonardo C. , Marie Diego Jean , Charles Altomonte John , Tamayo Maverick N. , Magtoto Liezel M. , Anton Bustamante Rene Alfred
Published: January 2024

Two new species of Bulbophyllum, B. barcelonae and B. pelseri are described here from the Pantabangan‐Carranglan Watershed Forest Reserve, Luzon Island, Philippines. Bulbophyllum barcelonae resembles B. charisae, but differs by having smaller vegetative parts, ovate petals with a rounded apex, and a labellum with two ridges that are strongly angled outwards the adaxial surface, rounded proximal crests, and a canaliculate abaxial surface. Bulbophyllum pelseri resembles B. aureobrunneum but differs by having caducous sheath covering the pseudobulbs, punctulate leaf surface, shorter leaves, absence of transverse callus in median portion of labellum, median portion with short, rounded ridge, rounded apex, and triangular stelidia. These discoveries increase to 207, the known species of Bulbophyllum in the Philippines.

An Abstract in Philipino can be found in the Supporting information.
Attachment avoidance predicts limited and selective sharing of personal events in close relationships
Authors: Sun Elina R. , Jakubiak Brett K.
Published: January 2024

Communicating personal experiences is crucial for fostering close relationships, but people can be reluctant to self‐disclose. The current research assessed the extent to which relationship‐specific (RS) and global attachment avoidance limit self‐disclosure of personal events in close relationships. Critically, we also identified the types of personal events that people will selectively share in relationships characterized by higher attachment avoidance. Participants (N = 609 in the aggregated sample) reported whether they shared up to four positive and four negative events that happened to them recently with up to eight close network‐members. We found that a one scale‐point increase in RS or global attachment avoidance (7‐point scales) predicted a 68% decrease or a 28% decrease in the odds of sharing, respectively. Nevertheless, people in more avoidant relationships did share personal events selectively: they uniquely prioritized sharing positive events, events that conveyed personal competence, and events that avoided vulnerability. Our findings shed light on the underlying factors contributing to the low likelihood of sharing personal experiences in more avoidant relationships and offer insights for future intervention work.
Comparative metabolomics analysis reveals secondary cell wall thickening as a barrier to resist Aspergillus flavus infection in groundnut
Authors: Avuthu Tejaswi , Sanivarapu Hemalatha , Prasad Kalyani , Sharma Niharika , Sudini Hari Kishan , Yogendra Kalenahalli
Published: January 2024

Aflatoxin contamination caused by Aspergillus flavus significantly threatens food safety and human health. Resistance to aflatoxin is a highly complex and quantitative trait, but the underlying molecular and biochemical mechanisms are poorly understood. The present study aims to identify the resistance‐related metabolites in groundnut that influence the defense mechanism against aflatoxin. Here, metabolite profiling of resistant (55–437) and susceptible (TMV‐2) groundnut genotypes, which exhibited contrasting levels of resistance to A. flavus growth and aflatoxin accumulation under pathogen‐ or mock‐inoculated treatments, was undertaken using liquid chromatography and high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS). Non‐targeted metabolomic analysis revealed key resistance‐related metabolites belonging to phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, fatty acids, alkaloids, and terpenoid biosynthetic pathways. The phenylpropanoids ‐ hydroxycinnamic acid amides (HCAAs) and lignins were among the most abundantly accumulated metabolites in the resistant genotype compared to the susceptible genotype. HCAAs and lignins are deposited as polymers and conjugated metabolites to strengthen the secondary cell wall, which acts as a barrier to pathogen entry. Further, histochemical staining confirmed the secondary cell wall thickening due to HCAAs and lignin depositions. Quantitative real‐time PCR studies revealed higher expressions of phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), 4‐coumarate: CoA ligase (4CL), cinnamoyl CoA reductase (CCR2), cinnamoyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD1), agmatine hydroxycinnamoyl transferase (ACT), chalcone synthase (CHS), dihydroflavonol 4‐reductase (DFR) and flavonol synthase (FLS) in the pathogen‐inoculated resistant genotype than in the susceptible genotype. This study reveals that the resistance to aflatoxin contamination in groundnut genotypes is associated with secondary cell wall thickening due to the deposition of HCAAs and lignins.
Tactile stimulation restores inhibited stretch reflex attributable to attenuation of Ia afferents during surprise landing
Authors: Konishi Yu , Yoshii Ryo , Takeshita Daisuke
Published: January 2024

Arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI) is induced by pathological knee conditions. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of tactile stimulation on reflex changes induced by simulated AMI during unpredictable landing performances. Twenty participants performed six unilateral landing tasks: 15 cm normal landing (15NL), 30 cm normal landing (30NL), surprise landing (SL), 30 cm normal landing following vibration (30NLV), SL following vibration (SLV), and SL following vibration with Kinesiology tape (SLK). For SL, the solid landing platform (15 cm) was removed and replaced by a false floor. Since the false floor dislodged easily under load, participants unpredictably fell through the platform to the actual landing surface 15 cm below. After completing 15NL, 30NL, and SL, vibration was applied to participants' knees to induce neurological changes similar to AMI. After vibration, participants performed 30NLV, SLV, and SLK in a random order. EMG signals in the post‐landing short latency (31–60 ms) and medium latency (61–90 ms) periods were examined. EMG signals from the vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), and biceps femoris (BF) were recorded and compared between tasks. EMG signals of all muscles in SL were significantly enhanced in the medium latency period as compared with 30NL. Enhanced EMG signals in SL were suppressed by vibration stimulation in the VL, but the suppressed EMG signals were restored after cutaneous stimulation with Kinesiology tape (p < 0.01). Our findings suggest that AMI could alter motor control patterns during unpredictable landing and that tactile stimulation could restore the altered motor control to a normal state.
Specific protein interactions between rice members of the GT43 and GT47 families form various central cores of putative xylan synthase complexes
Authors: Javaid Tasleem , Bhattarai Matrika , Venkataraghavan Akshayaa , Held Michael , Faik Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Members of the glycosyltransferase (GT)43 and GT47 families have been associated with heteroxylan synthesis in both dicots and monocots and are thought to assemble into central cores of putative xylan synthase complexes (XSCs). Currently, it is unknown whether protein–protein interactions within these central cores are specific, how many such complexes exist, and whether these complexes are functionally redundant. Here, we used gene association network and co‐expression approaches in rice to identify four OsGT43s and four OsGT47s that assemble into different GT43/GT47 complexes. Using two independent methods, we showed that (i) these GTs assemble into at least six unique complexes through specific protein–protein interactions and (ii) the proteins interact directly in vitro. Confocal microscopy showed that, when alone, all OsGT43s were retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), while all OsGT47s were localized in the Golgi. co‐expression of OsGT43s and OsGT47s displayed complexes that form in the ER but accumulate in Golgi. ER‐to‐Golgi trafficking appears to require interactions between OsGT43s and OsGT47s. Comparison of the central cores of the three putative rice OsXSCs to wheat, asparagus, and Arabidopsis XSCs, showed great variation in GT43/GT47 combinations, which makes the identification of orthologous central cores between grasses and dicots challenging. However, the emerging picture is that all central cores from these species seem to have at least one member of the IRX10/IRX10‐L clade in the GT47 family in common, suggesting greater functional importance for this family in xylan synthesis. Our findings provide a new framework for future investigation of heteroxylan biosynthesis and function in monocots.
Detection of Plasmodium spp. in asymptomatic blood donors by the new Brazilian NAT PLUS HIV/HBV/HCV/Malaria Bio‐Manguinhos kit
Authors: Costa Elaine , Rocha Daniele , Lopes Josiane Iole França , Andrade Elisabete , Cardoso Pedro , Ribeiro Marisa , Fontana‐Maurell Marcela , Vicentino Amanda Roberta Revoredo , Calazans Alexandre Rodrigues , Arruda Monica Barcellos , Mesquita Camila de Amorim , Ferreira Antonio Gomes Pinto , Amorim Filho Luiz , Alvarez Patrícia
Published: January 2024

Background

Transfusion‐transmitted malaria (TTM) is a public health problem in endemic and nonendemic areas. The Brazilian Ministry of Health (MH) requested the development of a nucleic acid amplification test (NAT) for the detection of Plasmodium spp. in public blood centers to increase blood safety.

Study Design and Methods

The new Brazilian NAT kit named NAT PLUS HIV/HBV/HCV/Malaria Bio‐Manguinhos was first implemented in HEMORIO, a public blood center in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Since October 1, 2022, this blood center has been testing all its blood donations for malaria in a pool of six plasma samples to detect Plasmodium spp. by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Since the implementation of the NAT PLUS platform until February 2023, HEMORIO has successfully received and tested 200,277 donations. The platform detected two asymptomatic donors in the city of Rio de Janeiro, which is a nonendemic region for malaria. Our analyses suggested a malaria from the Amazon region caused by Plasmodium vivax, in the first case, while an autochthonous transmission case by Plasmodium malariae was identified in the rural area of Rio de Janeiro state.

Discussion

The NAT PLUS platform detects Plasmodium spp. in plasma samples with sensitivity capable of detecting subpatent infections. This is the first time worldwide that a group developed and implemented molecular diagnosis for Plasmodium spp. to be used by public blood centers to avoid TTM.
Plutarch and Rhetoric
Authors: Tsiampokalos Theofanis
Published: January 2024

Plutarch was not only a skilled writer, but also lived during the Second Sophistic, a period of cultural renaissance. This book offers new insights into Plutarch’s seemingly moderate attitude towards rhetoric. The hypothesis explored in this study introduces, for the first time, the broader literary and cultural contexts that influenced and restricted the scope of Plutarch’s message. When these contexts are considered, a new perspective emerges that differs from that found in earlier studies. It paints a picture of a philosopher who may not regard rhetoric as a lesser means of persuasion, but who faces challenges in openly articulating this stance in his public discourse.
Characterization of a Rack-Level Thermosyphon-Based Cooling System
Authors: Khalid R. , Schon S. G. , Amalfi R. L. , Ortega A. , Wemhoff A. P.
Published: January 2024

This study aims to improve the combined energy efficiency of data center cooling systems and heating/cooling systems in surrounding premises by implementing a modular cooling approach on a 42 U IT rack. The cooling solution uses a close-coupled technique where the servers are air-cooled, and the air in turn is cooled within the rack enclosure using an air-to-refrigerant heat exchanger. The refrigerant passively circulates in a loop as a thermosyphon, making the system self-sustaining during startup and shutdown, self-regulating under varying heat loads, and virtually maintenance-free by eliminating mechanical parts (other than the cabinet fans). A heat load range of 2 kW–7.5 kW is tested on a prototype system. Experimental results reveal stable thermosyphon operation using R1233zd(E) as the working fluid, a maximum evaporator pressure drop of 21.5 kPa at the highest heat load and a minimum thermosyphon resistance of 6.8 mK/W at a heat load of 5.7 kW. The air temperature profile across the load banks (server simulators) and evaporator follow the same profiles with varying heat loads. Heat losses from the cabinet due to natural convection and radiation are of the order of several Watts for heat loads below 4 kW and rise sharply to 1 kW at the highest heat load tested. The system time constant is determined to be 25 min. The heat recovery process can be financially and environmentally beneficial depending on the downstream application.
Brief Review of Recent Achievements in the Flamelet Manifold Selection and Probability Density Distribution for Flamelet Manifold Variables
Authors: Yu Guangying , Li Bin
Published: January 2024

The flamelet model is a commonly used tool for turbulent combustion simulations in the engineering field due to its computational efficiency and compatibility with complex chemical reaction mechanisms. Despite being widely used for decades, the flamelet model still faces challenges when applied to complex flame configurations, such as partially premixed flames, inhomogeneous inlets, supersonic combustion, or multiphase combustion. The principal challenges are posed by the uncertainty of the presumed shapes for probability density functions (PDFs) of the flamelet tabulation variables and the coupled process of turbulent diffusion and chemical reaction in turbulent combustion. Recent progress is reviewed from the viewpoint of the reaction manifold, with connections made to other combustion models, as well as the determination of joint (or conditional) PDFs for flamelet manifold parameters (e.g., progress variable, scalar dissipation rates, etc.). Promising improvements have been outlined in computational efficiency and the accuracy of predicted variable fields in simulating complex combustion systems (such as turbulent inhomogeneous combustion, combustion with multi-regime modes, and two-phase combustion). Advances in computational resources, direct numerical simulation data, artificial intelligence, stochastic simulation methods, and other dimension-reduction combustion models will contribute to the development of more accurate and efficient flamelet-like models for engineering applications.
Evolving a Novel Blade Shape of a Savonius Wind Rotor Using an Optimization Technique Coupled With Numerical Simulations and Wind Tunnel Tests
Authors: Mohan Man , Saha Ujjwal K.
Published: January 2024

The global adoption of Savonius wind rotors as an eco-friendly means of small-scale power production is on the rise. However, their suboptimal performance remains a significant challenge due to the generation of higher unproductive torque. This paper aims to address this issue by obtaining an optimal blade profile considering the power coefficient (CP) as an output function using optimization techniques. The objective function includes the overlap ratio, intermediate points on the curve, inlet velocity, and tip speed ratio (TSR) as the optimization geometric parameters. To achieve this, the simplex search method and the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II are opted to develop the blade profile. The blade profile is developed using a natural cubic spline curve with fixed end points and variable intermediate points along with other parameters. The computational analysis is done using ansys fluent software with shear stress transport k−ω turbulence model. The solver setup employs the finite volume method to simulate the transient 2D flow around the blade profile. A direct comparison is made between the optimized blade profile and the conventional semicircular one over a range of TSRs. The results clearly indicate the superior performance of the former, exhibiting a higher CPmax by 23% compared to the conventional one at TSR = 0.8. Finally, experiments have been conducted in a wind tunnel to find the practical feasibility of the optimized blade profile generated through the simplex search method.
Multi-Stage Hybrid Loading Fatigue Life Prediction Study
Authors: Yang Bowen , Wu Zhen , Chen Hao , Zhang Zhange , Huo Junzhou
Published: January 2024

Fatigue is a damage accumulation process in which material properties are continuously deteriorated and degraded under cyclic loading. Damage accumulation analysis plays a key role in preventing the occurrence of fatigue failure, and the damage evolution mechanism is an important parameter of interest for fatigue behavior. The fatigue cumulative damage life prediction model is established by focusing on the damage evolution mechanism, and an improved Manson–Harford cumulative damage nonlinear model is developed to calculate fatigue damage life by considering the effect of load ratio of multi-stage loading on fatigue life. A fatigue life prediction method considering high-low cycles and multi-stage mixed loads is proposed. The fatigue life prediction accuracy of the model is verified by fatigue tests on structural samples. The accuracy of the fatigue life prediction error is the highest among similar models under the same test, the model proposed in this paper.
A Fast Algorithm for the Prediction of Distance at Closest Point of Approach in the Maneuvering of Two Ships
Authors: Xu Chen , Jiang Fan , Xu Chaozuo , Zhou Xueqian , Ren Huilong
Published: January 2024

The situation of two ships maneuvering in the vicinity is not so rare, and the significant hydrodynamic interaction effect always poses a threat to navigation safety in these conditions. The assessment of the Distance at Closest Point of Approach (DCPA) is necessary for ship collision avoidance decision-making. In this study, an efficient ship maneuvering model for close-distance maneuvering is developed to predict DCPA rapidly, where the hydrodynamic interaction between ships is accounted for. The Maneuvering Modeling Group (MMG) standard model is used to predict ship motion, and the hydrodynamic interaction effect is estimated in real-time by a code based on the potential flow theory where the variation of free surface is neglected. The ship maneuvering model is validated by the comparison between simulation and experiment in turning and zig-zag maneuvering; furthermore, the validated maneuvering model is used to predict the trajectory under the ship hydrodynamic effect. The characteristic of ship maneuvering under the ship hydrodynamic interaction between two ships is described and illustrated, and the influence of the velocity and lateral distance on the ship trajectory is revealed. A sensitivity analysis of the maneuvering model is performed to determine whether the hydrodynamic interaction effect is necessary to be evaluated exactly for an accurate predicted trajectory and DCPA. The DCPA in different situations is calculated, which represents the ship collision risk.
High-Temperature Tribology of Selective Laser-Melted Titanium Alloys: Role of Adhesive Wear
Authors: Basha M. M. , Sankar M. R. , Murthy T. S. R. Ch. , Majumdar S.
Published: January 2024

Titanium alloys (Ti6Al4V) are emerging materials used in many engineering applications, especially aerospace, due to their strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, and high specific strength. The selective laser melting (SLM) process is vividly used to fabricate components with minimum material usage, which reduces the total weight of the product. The hard particles in the atmosphere repeatedly hit the aircraft turbine blades in a rotary motion during aircraft operations. Due to significant sliding action between articulating surfaces, these turbine blades need good wear resistance. With this motivation, rotary wear tests were performed under high vacuum at three different temperatures: room temperature, 400 °C, and 850 °C on as-built and heat-treated titanium alloy fabricated by the SLM process. The parameters like the speed, number of cycles, time, and high vacuum were considered to be constant while performing these high-temperature tribology experiments. As-built and heat-treated samples against the alumina ball resulted in lower coefficient of friction (COF) values at high temperatures compared to room temperature. In addition, adhesive wear was found to be the dominant wear mechanism at high temperatures. From the morphological studies, plowing strips, plowing ridges, and shallow grooves were significantly noticed on the worn-out surfaces of the heat-treated samples. Although low COF values were obtained at high temperatures on tested samples, higher specific wear-rates were seen in these samples due to the continuous removal of soft material.
Visualizing non-adiabatic quantum dynamics and photo-excitation processes on Excel
Authors: Fultz Erica L. , Gras Jovan , Messina Michael
Published: January 2024

We offer two Excel modules that students can use to view the real-time spatial evolution of a diatomic molecule's nuclei when two different potential energy curves governing the nucleus motion spatially cross one another or are coupled by a light field. Module 1 comprises three spreadsheets that can be used to view non-adiabatic nuclear dynamics on two crossing nuclear potential energy curves. These curves cross because there is a value of the spatial coordinate where the two curves have the same energy, which results in a non-zero probability of the probability density crossing from one potential curve to the other. Students can view non-adiabatic nuclear dynamics involving two unbounded nuclear potential curves, pre-dissociation with a bound “ionic state” to an unbound covalent state, and quantum tunneling dynamics between two bounded potential curves. Module 2 comprises two spreadsheets that can be used to view the dynamics of the photo-excitation process, i.e., where the absorption of light leads to transitions between two nuclear potentials. Students can model the light-induced transitions between nuclear potentials when the light is provided by both a continuous wave laser and a pulsed laser. These modules are included as the supplementary material and can be run on any computer that supports Excel.
Adiabatic invariance and its application to Wien's complete displacement law of blackbody radiation
Authors: Lemons Don S. , Shanahan William R.
Published: January 2024

We derive the “complete” or “strong” version of Wien's displacement law from two adiabatic invariants: one of a thermodynamic system composed of a finite-sized segment of frequencies taken from the spectrum of blackbody radiation and one of the individual electromagnetic waves that compose this system. By exploiting the algebra of these invariants, we shift the calculational burden of deriving Wien's displacement law toward the methods of classical thermodynamics. These methods also produce a class of displacement laws that constrain both the particles of a classical ideal gas and the acoustic waves of the Debye model of a solid.
The Civilized Bodies of Middle-Aged Women: A Qualitative Study of Participation in an Exercise Intervention in Denmark
Authors: Hybholt Maria
Published: January 2024

The present paper explores how aging bodies of middle-aged women can enable and constrain participation in physical activity. The study is inspired by the process sociology of Norbert Elias and builds on qualitative empirical material from passive observations (N = 57), focus groups (N = 51), and individual follow-up interviews (N = 21) with middle-aged Danish women who participated in a 3-month research project with exercise intervention. The qualitative study found that awareness of bodily aging enabled the taking up of exercise in the intervention. Additionally, taking up regular exercise in midlife can be understood as a highly rationalized leisure-time activity in relation to societal moral norms of self-responsibility for own physiological health. Furthermore, the qualitative material indicates that participation enabled a self-realization among the middle-aged women, as strong and capable bodies counter to the biomedical view of decline in the aging body.
TMEM216 promotes primary ciliogenesis and Hedgehog signaling through the SUFU-GLI2/GLI3 axis
Authors: Wang Yingying , Yao Huili , Zhang Yu , Mu Ning , Lu Tong , Du Zhiyuan , Wu Yingdi , Li Xiaopeng , Su Min , Shao Ming , Sun Xiaoyang , Su Ling , Liu Xiangguo
Published: January 2024

Primary cilia are enriched in signaling receptors, and defects in their formation or function can induce conditions such as polycystic kidney disease, postaxial hexadactyly, and microphthalmia. Mammalian Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is important in the development of primary cilia, and TMEM216, a transmembrane protein that localizes to the base of cilia, is also implicated in ciliogenesis in zebrafish. Here, we found thatTmem216-deficient mice had impaired Hh signaling and displayed typical ciliopathic phenotypes. These phenomena were also observed in cells deficient in TMEM216. Furthermore, TMEM216 interacted with core Hh signaling proteins, including SUFU, a negative regulator of Hh, and GLI2/GLI3, transcription factors downstream of Hh. The competition between TMEM216 and SUFU for binding to GLI2/GLI3 inhibited the cleavage of GLI2/GLI3 into their repressor forms, which resulted in the nuclear accumulation of full-length GLI2 and the decreased nuclear localization of cleaved GLI3, ultimately leading to the activation of Hh signaling. Together, these data suggest that the TMEM216-SUFU-GLI2/GLI3 axis plays a role in TMEM216 deficiency–induced ciliopathies and Hh signaling abnormalities.
Metagenomic insights into the dynamic degradation of brown algal polysaccharides by kelp-associated microbiota
Authors: Zhang Yi-Shuo , Zhang Yu-Qi , Zhao Xiang-Ming , Liu Xiao-Lei , Qin Qi-Long , Liu Ning-Hua , Xu Fei , Chen Xiu-Lan , Zhang Yu-Zhong , Li Ping-Yi
Published: January 2024

Marine bacteria play important roles in the degradation and cycling of algal polysaccharides. However, the dynamics of epiphytic bacterial communities and their roles in algal polysaccharide degradation during kelp decay are still unclear. Here, we performed metagenomic analyses to investigate the identities and predicted metabolic abilities of epiphytic bacterial communities during the early and late decay stages of the kelp
Saccharina japonica
. During kelp decay, the dominant epiphytic bacterial communities shifted from Gammaproteobacteria to Verrucomicrobia and Bacteroidetes. In the early decay stage of
S. japonica
, epiphytic bacteria primarily targeted kelp-derived labile alginate for degradation, among which the gammaproteobacterial
Vibrionaceae
(particularly
Vibrio
) and
Psychromonadaceae
(particularly
Psychromonas
), abundant in alginate lyases belonging to the polysaccharide lyase (PL) families PL6, PL7, and PL17, were key alginate degraders. More complex fucoidan was preferred to be degraded in the late decay stage of
S. japonica
by epiphytic bacteria, predominantly from Verrucomicrobia (particularly
Lentimonas
),
Pirellulaceae
of Planctomycetes (particularly
Rhodopirellula
),
Pontiellaceae
of Kiritimatiellota, and
Flavobacteriaceae
of Bacteroidetes, which depended on using glycoside hydrolases (GHs) from the GH29, GH95, and GH141 families and sulfatases from the S1_15, S1_16, S1_17, and S1_25 families to depolymerize fucoidan. The pathways for algal polysaccharide degradation in dominant epiphytic bacterial groups were reconstructed based on analyses of metagenome-assembled genomes. This study sheds light on the roles of different epiphytic bacteria in the degradation of brown algal polysaccharides.

IMPORTANCE

Kelps are important primary producers in coastal marine ecosystems. Polysaccharides, as major components of brown algal biomass, constitute a large fraction of organic carbon in the ocean. However, knowledge of the identities and pathways of epiphytic bacteria involved in the degradation process of brown algal polysaccharides during kelp decay is still elusive. Here, based on metagenomic analyses, the succession of epiphytic bacterial communities and their metabolic potential were investigated during the early and late decay stages of
Saccharina japonica
. Our study revealed a transition in algal polysaccharide-degrading bacteria during kelp decay, shifting from alginate-degrading Gammaproteobacteria to fucoidan-degrading Verrucomicrobia, Planctomycetes, Kiritimatiellota, and Bacteroidetes. A model for the dynamic degradation of algal cell wall polysaccharides, a complex organic carbon, by epiphytic microbiota during kelp decay was proposed. This study deepens our understanding of the role of epiphytic bacteria in marine algal carbon cycling as well as pathogen control in algal culture.
Anaerobic gut fungal communities in marsupial hosts
Authors: Jones Adrienne L. , Pratt Carrie J. , Meili Casey H. , Soo Rochelle M. , Hugenholtz Philip , Elshahed Mostafa S. , Youssef Noha H.
Published: January 2024

The AGF are integral part of the microbiome of herbivores. They play a crucial role in breaking down plant biomass in hindgut and foregut fermenters. The majority of research has been conducted on the AGF community in placental mammalian hosts. However, it is important to note that many marsupial mammals are also herbivores and employ a hindgut or foregut fermentation strategy for breaking down plant biomass. So far, very little is known regarding the AGF diversity and community structure in marsupial mammals. To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted an amplicon-based diversity survey targeting AGF in 61 fecal samples from 10 marsupial species. We hypothesize that, given the distinct evolutionary history and alimentary tract architecture, novel and unique AGF communities would be encountered in marsupials. Our results indicate that marsupial AGF communities are highly stochastic, present in relatively low loads, and display community structure patterns comparable to AGF communities typically encountered in placental foregut hosts. Our results indicate that marsupial hosts harbor AGF communities; however, in contrast to the strong pattern of phylosymbiosis typically observed between AGF and placental herbivores, the identity and gut architecture appear to play a minor role in structuring AGF communities in marsupials.
Depositional history of Devonian to lower Carboniferous (Tournaisian) strata, northern Wyoming and southern Montana, USA
Authors: Hu Mingxi , Myrow Paul M. , Fike David A. , di Pasquo Mercedes , Zatoń Michał , Fischer Woodward W. , Coates Michael
Published: January 2024

The lower Frasnian (Upper Devonian) Maywood Formation records incision of valleys into lower Paleozoic bedrock in fluvial to estuarine settings in northern Wyoming and deposition in estuarine to marine environments in southern Montana (USA). A distinctive fossil assemblage of microconchids, plant compression fossils, fish fossils, and microspores represent fauna and flora that lived in, and adjacent to, salinity-stressed ecological niches in the upper reaches of the Maywood valleys. A similar fossil assemblage is recorded in older Devonian valley-fill deposits of the Lower Devonian Beartooth Butte Formation, indicating that valley incision and subsequent transgression, occurred repeatedly over a span of nearly 30 million years with organisms tracking the marine incursions into the valleys. The fossil charcoal in the Maywood Formation captures a record of fire in adjacent terrestrial ecosystems. The amount of dioxygen (O2) was thus above the fire window level (16% by volume) and might have been near modern levels in the earliest Late Devonian atmosphere.

The nearshore deposits of the Maywood Formation are overlain by extensive shallow carbonate shelf strata of the Jefferson Formation, likely resulting from a global transgression in the earliest Frasnian. A paired positive and negative δ13Ccarbonate [carb] isotopic excursion in the Jefferson with a range of >6‰ is a signal of the globally recognized “punctata” Event. The unconformably overlying Madison Limestone is lower Carboniferous, except for a thin basal Upper Devonian unit with marine palynomorphs. The Madison regionally records eastward transgression and establishment of widespread marine deposition. It also contains two positive δ13Ccarb excursions (up to ~7.5‰) that make up the mid-Tournaisian (= Kinderhookian–Osagean boundary) carbon isotope excursion (TICE/KOBE). These isotope data provide a framework for regional and global correlation of northern Rocky Mountain strata and an archive of environmental and evolutionary change during the middle–late Paleozoic transition.
Early educational attainment in children with major congenital anomaly in the UK
Authors: Wands Zoë E , Cave Daniel G W , Cromie Kirsten , Hough Amy , Johnson Kathryn , Mon-Williams Mark , Feltbower Richard G , Glaser Adam W
Published: January 2024

Objective

To describe early educational attainment and special educational needs (SEN) provision in children with major congenital anomaly (CA) compared with peers.

Design

Analysis of educational data linked to the ongoing Born in Bradford cohort study. Confounders were identified via causal inference methods and multivariable logistic regression performed.

Setting

Children born in Bradford Royal Infirmary (BRI), West Yorkshire.

Patients

All women planning to give birth at BRI and attending antenatal clinic from March 2007 to December 2010 were eligible. 12 453 women with 13 776 pregnancies (>80% of those attending) were recruited. Records of 555 children with major CA and 11 188 without were linked to primary education records.

Outcomes

Key Stage 1 (KS1) attainment at age 6–7 years in Maths, Reading, Writing and Science. SEN provision from age 4 to 7 years.

Results

41% of children with major CA received SEN provision (compared with 14% without), and 48% performed below expected standards in at least one KS1 domain (compared with 29% without). The adjusted odds of children with CA receiving SEN provision and failing to achieve the expected standard at KS1 were, respectively, 4.30 (95% CI 3.49 to 5.31) and 3.06 (95% CI 2.47 to 3.79) times greater than their peers. Those with genetic, heart, neurological, urinary, gastrointestinal and limb anomalies had significantly poorer academic achievement.

Conclusions

These novel results demonstrate that poor educational attainment extends to children with urinary, limb and gastrointestinal CAs. We demonstrate the need for collaboration between health and education services to assess and support children with major CA, so every CA survivor can maximise their potential.
Defining the concept of mental dysregulation in patients requiring ambulance and/or emergency department care: protocol for a Delphi consensus study
Authors: Van de Glind Geurt , Crilly Julia , Galenkamp Niek , Schut Bart , Werner Lente , Chan Eric , Hilton Emily , Schoonhoven Lisette , Scheepers Floortje E , Muir Rachel , Baden David , van Veen Mark , Ham Wietske H W
Published: January 2024

Introduction

From the patient and staff perspective, care delivery for patients experiencing a mental health problem in ambulance and emergency department (ED) settings is challenging. There is no uniform and internationally accepted concept to reflect people with a mental health problem who require emergency care, be it for, or as a result of, a mental health or physical health problem. On initial presentation to the emergency service provider (ambulance or ED), the cause of their healthcare condition/s (mental health and/or physical health) is often initially unknown. Due to this (1) the prevalence and range of underlying causes (mental and/or physical) of the patients presenting condition is unknown; (2) misattribution of physical symptoms to a mental health problem can occur and (3) diagnosis and treatment of the initial somatic complaint and cause(s) of the mental/physical health problem may be hindered.

This study will name and define a new concept: ‘mental dysregulation’ in the context of ambulance and ED settings.

Methods and analysis

A Delphi study, informed by a rapid literature review, will be undertaken. For the literature review, a steering group (ie, persons with lived experience, ED and mental health clinicians, academics) will systematically search the literature to provide a working definition of the concept: mental dysregulation. Based on this review, statements will be generated regarding (1) the definition of the concept; (2) possible causes of mental dysregulation and (3) observable behaviours associated with mental dysregulation. These statements will be rated in three Delphi rounds to achieve consensus by an international expert panel (comprising persons with lived experience, clinicians and academics).

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of the University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (reference number: 258-000-2023_Geurt van der Glind). Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journal publication(s), scientific conference(s) and to key stakeholders.
Randomised controlled trial of early magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy for the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients at high bleeding risk scheduled for percutaneous coronary intervention: MACE-GPS study protocol
Authors: Li Minghui , Liu Rong , Wu Yongjian
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Limited data are available regarding the decision-making process for preventing gastrointestinal bleeding in patients at high risk of bleeding scheduled for percutaneous coronary intervention (HBPCI), especially due to the lack of a simple, accurate and sensitive methods for gastrointestinal injury detection. This randomised trial aims to assess the effects of early magnetically controlled capsule endoscopy (MCE) in patients with HBPCI for the prevention of gastrointestinal bleeding compared with conventional management.

Methods and analysis

The Magnetic-Assisted Capsule Endoscopy Gastrointestinal bleeding Protection Strategy (MACE-GPS) is a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial. Patients admitted for HBPCI will be randomised and placed into two study groups. In the early MCE group, 1228 patients will undergo MCE following admission to the hospital. If necessary, these patients may further undergo a multidisciplinary approach to determine treatment based on the MCE findings. A total of 1228 patients in the control group will undergo conventional treatment based on the attending cardiologist’s interpretation of their clinical presentations. The primary end point is the incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding within 12 months of enrolment.

Ethics and dissemination

The MACE-GPS trial has been approved by the ethics committees of all participating sites. Participant recruitment began in April 2023 and will be completed in April 2025, and the 1-year follow-up will be completed in April 2026. The study results will be disseminated through conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300070025.