bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A literature review on the redundancy of additional thyroid function tests in neonates of mothers with hypothyroidism
Authors: Deligeorgopoulou Marianna , Kosmeri Chrysoula , Giapros Vasileios , Balomenou Foteini , Baltogianni Maria , Serbis Anastasios
Published: January 2024

Aim

Newborn thyroid screening tests are carried out during the first days after birth in many parts of the world. The aim of this review was to assess whether additional thyroid function tests of neonates born to mothers with hypothyroidism are necessary to diagnose newborns with congenital hypothyroidism (CH) missed by the usual screening test.

Methods

A search in PubMed and Google Scholar databases was conducted for pertinent studies, using relevant keywords. All studies that were published in any language from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2023 were included. Observational cohort studies were included in the analysis, while case reports and studies not referring to neonates were excluded.

Results

Thirteen studies were identified comprising more than 4400 infants with CH. Studies with the larger study populations recommended against additional testing in healthy infants of hypothyroid mothers. Similar were the results of some smaller retrospective studies. Few studies identified in total 16 infants with CH that were missed on neonatal screening without, though, a definite causative link between the mother's and the infant's thyroid dysfunction.

Conclusion

Based on available data, additional thyroid function tests seem redundant in identifying undiagnosed cases of CH. Larger studies are needed to reach a definite conclusion.
Regulation of craving training to support healthy food choices under stress: A randomized control trial employing the hierarchical drift‐diffusion model
Authors: Ju Qianqian , Wu Xuebing , Li Binghui , Peng Huini , Lippke Sonia , Gan Yiqun
Published: January 2024

Stress increases the likelihood of consuming unhealthy food in some individuals. Previous research has demonstrated that the Regulation of Craving ‐ Training (ROC‐T) intervention can reduce unhealthy food intake. However, its effectiveness under stress and the underlying mechanism remained uncertain. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the ROC‐T intervention in improving healthy food choices and to explore the intervention mechanism through computational modeling employing the hierarchical drift‐diffusion model (HDDM). This study adopted a 2 (ROC‐T intervention vs. control) * 2 (stress vs. no‐stress) between‐subject experimental design. A total of 118 employees (72 women, Mage = 28.74) participated in the online experiment. Results show that the ROC‐T intervention increases healthy food choices under stress and no‐stress conditions. The HDDM results reveal a significant two‐way interaction for non‐decision time (Bayes factor, BF = 32.722) and initial bias (BF = 27.350). Specifically, in the no‐stress condition, the ROC‐T intervention resulted in lower non‐decision time and higher initial bias compared with the control group. The findings validated the negative impact of stress on healthy food choices, and that the ROC‐T intervention promotes healthy food choices both under stress and no‐stress conditions.
How do inventors overcome the relational inertia after inter‐firm mobility?
Authors: Wang Zeqian , Wang Chengjun , Sun Xiaoming , Feng Tao , Wang Yalan
Published: January 2024

This study aims to explore strategies for overcoming relational inertia and enhancing their creativity after inter‐firm mobility of inventors. The research sample comprises 591 mobile inventors identified using a patent data‐based model from Chinese communication technology companies. Employing the framework of dynamic network analysis, this study examines the impact of network closure at different time on overcoming relational inertia and investigates the influence of knowledge structure. The findings suggest that a lower level of past and current network closure is more conducive to knowledge sharing and technological innovation after inter‐firm mobility of inventors. Furthermore, mobile inventors with broad and in‐depth knowledge structures demonstrate significantly improved knowledge sharing and technological innovation, effectively mitigating relational inertia. These conclusions offer a systematic research perspective and comprehensive theoretical guidance, emphasizing the importance of optimizing network resources and knowledge structures to help inventors overcome relational inertia after inter‐firm mobility.
Single‐cell RNA‐seq of in vitro expanded cells from cranial neural crest reveals a rare odontogenic sub‐population
Authors: Zhao Yifan , Chen Shubin , Liu Xiaobo , Chen Xiaoming , Yang Dandan , Zhang Jiashu , Wu Di , Zhang Yanmei , Xie Si , Li Xiaomei , Wang Zhiyuan , Feng Bo , Qin Dajiang , Pei Duanqing , Wang Yaofeng , Cai Jinglei
Published: January 2024

Ecto‐mesenchymal cells of mammalian tooth germ develops from cranial neural crest cells. These cells are recognised as a promising source for tooth development and regeneration. Despite the high heterogeneity of the neural crest, the cellular landscape of in vitro cultured cranial neural crest cells (CNCCs) for odontogenesis remains unclear. In this study, we used large‐scale single‐cell RNA sequencing to analyse the cellular landscape of in vitro cultured mouse CNCCs for odontogenesis. We revealed distinct cell trajectories from primary cells to passage 5 and identified a rare Alx3+/Barx1+ sub‐population in primary CNCCs that differentiated into two odontogenic clusters characterised by the up‐regulation of Pax9/Bmp3 and Lhx6/Dmp1. We successfully induced whole tooth‐like structures containing enamel, dentin, and pulp under the mouse renal capsule using in vitro cultured cells from both cranial and trunk neural crests with induction rates of 26.7% and 22.1%, respectively. Importantly, we confirmed only cells sorted from odontogenic path can induce tooth‐like structures. Cell cycle and DNA replication genes were concomitantly upregulated in the cultured NCCs of the tooth induction groups. Our data provide valuable insights into the cell heterogeneity of in vitro cultured CNCCs and their potential as a source for tooth regeneration.
Using an ecosystem service model to inform restoration planning: A spatially explicit oyster filtration model for Pensacola Bay, Florida
Authors: zu Ermgassen Philine S. E. , Gair Jonathan R. , Jarvis Brandon , Geselbracht Laura , Birch Anne , Scheffel Whitney A. , Smith Kent , DeAngelis Bryan
Published: January 2024

The development of science‐based restoration goals that reflect the primary motivation of stakeholders is a key factor leading to large‐scale, long‐term restoration successes. The ability to predict the potential ecosystem service delivery from restoration can inform the setting of appropriate goals and facilitate the strategic planning of restoration activities. While recovery of the ecosystem services provided by oyster reefs is a regularly cited reason for undertaking restoration, few examples exist where large‐scale oyster habitat restoration plans have been informed using ecosystem service functions. Such an approach is currently being implemented in the Pensacola Bay System, Florida, where a broad coalition of partners and community stakeholders are utilizing a watershed approach to restoring oysters with the aim of restoring oysters for multiple objectives including habitat, ecosystem services, and wild harvest and aquaculture. Through the process of developing a habitat management plan, water filtration was identified as a key ecosystem service by the stakeholders. To support restoration planning we derived a spatially explicit estimate of water filtration services provided by the eastern oyster in the Pensacola Bay system by linking an oyster habitat suitability map to a hydrodynamic‐oyster filtration model. This spatially explicit model allowed us to identify the areas where restored oyster reefs have the potential to provide the greatest increase in filtration service as well as provide spatially explicit estimates of the potential filtration provided by oyster habitat restored. Such information is useful in restoration planning and management and for stakeholder engagement, outreach, and education programs.
Atogepant: Mechanism of action, clinical and translational science
Authors: Boinpally Ramesh , Shebley Mohamad , Trugman Joel M.
Published: January 2024

Since the discovery of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in 1982, its integral role in migraine pathophysiology, specifically migraine pain, has been demonstrated through cumulative scientific discoveries that have led to the development and approval of migraine‐specific therapeutics. Today, eight drugs, including monoclonal antibodies and small molecule CGRP receptor antagonists, known as gepants, have received approval for acute or preventive treatment of migraine. The primary mechanism of these drugs is to block CGRP signaling, thus preventing CGRP‐mediated nociception and neurogenic inflammation. Here, we focus on atogepant, a highly potent and selective gepant and the first and only oral medication approved for the preventive treatment of both episodic and chronic migraine in adults. In this article, we summarize the role of CGRP in migraine pathophysiology and the mechanism of action of atogepant. In addition, we provide an overview of atogepant's pharmacology and the key clinical trials and outcomes that have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of atogepant.
Micro‐ and macroclimate interactively shape diversity, niches and traits of Orthoptera communities along elevational gradients
Authors: König Sebastian , Krauss Jochen , Classen Alice , Hof Christian , Prietzel Maximilian , Wagner Carolin , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf
Published: January 2024

Aim

Temperature is one of the main drivers shaping species diversity and assembly processes. Yet, site‐specific effects of the local microclimate on species and trait compositions of insect communities have rarely been assessed along macroclimatic temperature clines.

Location

Bavarian Alps, Germany.

Methods

Bayesian joint species distribution models were applied to investigate how ecological and morphological traits drive variation in the climatic niches of 32 Orthoptera species on 93 grassland sites with contrasting microclimatic conditions along a steep elevational macroclimatic gradient in an Alpine region in Central Europe.

Results

Species richness and abundance decreased along the elevational macroclimatic gradient, and both benefitted from warm microclimate. Interactive effects of elevation and microclimate on the abundance were, however, species‐specific, and partly mediated by traits: Warm microclimatic conditions facilitated the occurrence of demanding xerophilic and late‐hatching species, resulting in marked community dissimilarities at mid‐elevations where colder sites harboured only a subset of the species. The latter mainly occurred at low elevations together with long‐winged species. Abundance peaks of non‐xerophilic species were further upslope when microclimate was warm. Intraspecifically, the body sizes and wing lengths of the larger females, but not the males, decreased with elevation akin the community mean, and brown colour morphs were more frequent at sites with warm microclimate.

Main Conclusions

Our nuanced results reveal that trait‐dependent responses of species to microclimate play a key role in the assembly and structuring of insect communities along macroclimatic gradients. Since microclimate preferences changed with elevation, we conclude that species temperature niches are narrower than the elevational range suggests and both macro‐ and microclimatic conditions must be considered when predicting species responses to climate change. Microclimatic contrasts among sites at similar elevations enhanced species turnover mediated by moisture preferences and phenology, highlighting the importance of mountains for conservation as climatic refugia where species with diverging niches can persist in proximity.
Implementing Health Policy in Nigeria: The Basic Health Care Provision Fund as a Catalyst for Achieving Universal Health Coverage?
Authors: Chukwuma Julia Ngozi
Published: January 2024

In 2014, Nigeria adopted a new law for its healthcare system, which mandated the establishment of a novel health‐financing mechanism, the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). The BHCPF was created to provide sustainable funding with a view to fast‐tracking Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and improving health outcomes in Nigeria. This article places Nigeria's UHC reform process in the broader context of social policy implementation in Africa to illustrate the extent to which interactions between different agents, contextual factors such as Nigeria's federal character, as well as changing conceptualizations of social policy at a global level, shape views on how best to implement UHC. The article is based on the careful examination of three different versions of implementation guidelines for the BHCPF combined with qualitative data collected during fieldwork. It argues that there is a discrepancy between the Nigerian government rhetoric of putting into place a system that improves access to healthcare and the actual practice of implementing UHC via the BHCPF. In reality, a range of controversies surround the ongoing operationalization of the BHCPF, contributing to the perpetuation of a social policy environment that allows poor health outcomes and significant health inequities in Nigeria to persist.
Post‐pandemic Transformations and the Recasting of Development: A Comment and Further Reflections
Authors: Leach Melissa , MacGregor Hayley , Scoones Ian , Taylor Peter
Published: January 2024

This Comment is both a response to critique and a wider contribution to renewed debate on the politics of development and development studies amidst multiple, intersecting challenges. In an article published in World Development in 2021, Leach et al. proposed that COVID‐19 and earlier epidemics provided fundamental lessons for post‐pandemic transformations and for rethinking development more broadly. In an article published in this journal in 2023, Wiegratz et al. critiqued Leach et al., arguing that their universalist framing effaces structural inequalities between the global North and the global South, and that the analysis underplays the importance of historically embedded political‐economic inequalities. This Comment shows how elements of the article by Wiegratz and colleagues point to ways to extend and elaborate Leach et al.’s overall argument — not to refute it — but that it is also based on a highly selective reading of the latter's work and its implications. Focusing first on the core question of universality, and then more briefly on the themes of inequalities and of uncertainty, it resurfaces parts of the authors’ work that Wiegratz et al. selectively ignore, and reflects on further recent evidence of pandemic impacts and inequalities amidst structural violence and contemporary capitalist dynamics. These are relevant across all geographies and polities, although in different ways, as shaped by particular contexts and histories that include, but also cross‐cut and complicate, dichotomies between the so‐called global North and global South. This Comment thus clarifies and extends the argument for a recasting of development around a radically transformative, egalitarian and inclusive knowledge and politics, relevant to all settings across the world.
Dynamic visual noise has limited influence on the habitat selection and behavioural activity of crustaceans and cephalopods
Authors: Drerup Christian , How Martin J. , Herbert‐Read James E.
Published: January 2024

Environments contain various forms of noise that can interfere with the ability of animal sensory systems to perceive information. One ubiquitous type of visual noise in shallow aquatic habitats is caustic flicker (or caustics), consisting of dynamically moving light patterns caused by the refraction of light when passing through the water's rippling surface. While some teleost fish avoid environments with caustic noise (where their prey can be more difficult to detect), it remains untested whether caustics affect the habitat selection of invertebrates. In the present study, we ask whether three invertebrate species, the shore crab Carcinus maenas, the brown shrimp Crangon crangon, and the common cuttlefish Sepia officinalis, prefer or avoid associating with environments with caustic noise, and whether caustics affect their behavioural activity and habitat exploration. To do this, we exposed the three species in binary choice experiments to different simulated caustic noise levels varying in their temporal (speed) and spatial (definition) components. Neither of the three tested invertebrate species spent more or less time in environments with higher caustic noise levels. While we also found no evidence that caustics affected the behavioural activity and exploration of Ca. maenas and S. officinalis, the brown shrimp Cr. crangon reduced its activity with increasing spatial caustic noise. However, all obtained effect sizes in this study were small, suggesting that caustic noise only minimally affects invertebrate behaviour. Overall, our results show that, unlike in teleost fish, caustics have limited influence on the habitat selection, exploration, and activity of crustaceans and cephalopods.
Molar incisor hypomineralisation: Teaching and assessment across the undergraduate dental curricula in the UK
Authors: Humphreys Judith , Graham Anna , Rodd Helen D. , Albadri Sondos , Parekh Susan , Somani Cheryl , Hosey Marie Therese , Taylor Greig D.
Published: January 2024

Background

No consensus exists on how molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH) should be covered by the undergraduate dental curricula.

Aim

To assess the current teaching and assessment of MIH in the UK.

Design

A piloted questionnaire regarding the teaching and assessment of MIH was disseminated to paediatric, restorative and orthodontic teaching leads in each UK dental school (n = 16). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi‐squared and Kruskal–Wallis tests.

Results

Response rates from paediatric, restorative and orthodontic teams were 75% (n = 12), 44% (n = 7) and 54% (n = 8), respectively. Prevention of caries, preformed metal crowns, anterior resin composites and vital bleaching were taught significantly more by paediatric teams (p = .006). Quality of life and resin infiltration were absent from restorative teaching. Orthodontic teaching focussed on the timing of first permanent molar extractions.

Paediatric teams were mainly responsible for assessment. Risk factors, differential diagnoses for MIH and defining clinical features were more likely to be assessed by paediatric teams than by others (p = .006). All specialities reported that students were prepared to manage MIH.

Conclusion

Molar incisor hypomineralisation is primarily taught and assessed by paediatric teams. No evidence of multidisciplinary or transitional teaching/assessment existed between specialities. Developing robust guidance regarding MIH learning in the UK undergraduate curricula may help improve consistency.
Influenza vaccine effectiveness in Europe: Results from the 2022–2023 VEBIS (Vaccine Effectiveness, Burden and Impact Studies) primary care multicentre study
Authors: Maurel Marine , Pozo Francisco , Pérez‐Gimeno Gloria , Buda Silke , Sève Noémie , Oroszi Beatrix , Hooiveld Mariette , Gomez Verónica , Domegan Lisa , Martínez‐Baz Iván , Ilić Maja , Carnahan Anna Sara , Mihai Maria Elena , Martínez Ana , Goerlitz Luise , Enouf Vincent , Horváth Judit Krisztina , Dijkstra Frederika , Rodrigues Ana Paula , Bennett Charlene , Trobajo‐Sanmartín Camino , Mlinarić Ivan , Latorre‐Margalef Neus , Ivanciuc Alina , Lopez Aurora , Dürrwald Ralf , Falchi Alessandra , Túri Gergő , Meijer Adam , Melo Aryse , O'Donnell Joan , Castilla Jesús , Vučina Vesna Višekruna , Hagey Tove Samuelsson , Lazar Mihaela , Kaczmarek Marlena , Bacci Sabrina , Kissling Esther ,   VEBIS study team
Published: January 2024

Background

Influenza A(H3N2) viruses dominated early in the 2022–2023 influenza season in Europe, followed by higher circulation of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and B viruses. The VEBIS primary care network estimated the influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) using a multicentre test‐negative study.

Materials and Methods

Primary care practitioners collected information and specimens from patients consulting with acute respiratory infection. We measured VE against any influenza, influenza (sub)type and clade, by age group, by influenza vaccine target group and by time since vaccination, using logistic regression.

Results

We included 38 058 patients, of which 3786 were influenza A(H3N2), 1548 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and 3275 influenza B cases. Against influenza A(H3N2), VE was 36% (95% CI: 25–45) among all ages and ranged between 30% and 52% by age group and target group. VE against influenza A(H3N2) clade 2b was 38% (95% CI: 25–49). Overall, VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was 46% (95% CI: 35–56) and ranged between 29% and 59% by age group and target group. VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 clade 5a.2a was 56% (95% CI: 46–65) and 79% (95% CI: 64–88) against clade 5a.2a.1. VE against influenza B was 76% (95% CI: 70–81); overall, 84%, 72% and 71% were among 0–14‐year‐olds, 15–64‐year‐olds and those in the influenza vaccination target group, respectively. VE against influenza B with a position 197 mutation of the hemagglutinin (HA) gene was 79% (95% CI: 73–85) and 90% (95% CI: 85–94) without this mutation

Conclusion

The 2022–2023 end‐of‐season results from the VEBIS network at primary care level showed high VE among children and against influenza B, with lower VE against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2).
Chemical co‐precipitation synthesis of high‐entropy rare‐earth silicate nanopowders
Authors: Wei Peng , Zhao Shixin , Zhuang Lei , Yu Hulei , Qin Yexia , Chu Yanhui
Published: January 2024

The synthesis of high‐quality nanopowders is crucial to developing high‐performance, high‐entropy rare‐earth silicates (HERESs). Herein, we report the synthesis of HERES nanopowders, including high‐entropy rare‐earth monosilicates (HEREMs) and high‐entropy rare‐earth disilicates (HEREDs), via a simple chemical co‐precipitation method for the first time. By rationally optimizing the synthesis conditions, monoclinic HEREM nanopowders can be well synthesized with highly uniform element distributions. The formation of HEREM nanoparticles is governed by the production of the precursor from the co‐precipitation reactions between rare‐earth hydroxide and silicic acid at the atomic scale, followed by the dehydration of precursor skeletons. Furthermore, the validation of using this approach to prepare HERED nanopowders is also confirmed. This research will open up a new research area in synthesizing HERES nanopowders.
Periodontitis and hypertension are linked through systemic inflammation: A 5‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Torrungruang Kitti , Vathesatogkit Prin , Mahanonda Rangsini , Thienpramuk Lalitsara
Published: January 2024

Aim

To investigate the associations between periodontitis and hypertension and potential mediation via systemic inflammation through a 5‐year longitudinal study.

Materials and Methods

The severity and extent of periodontitis were determined using probing depth (PD). Oral hygiene was assessed using plaque scores. The associations between periodontal variables and 5‐year blood pressure changes or incident hypertension were analysed using linear or Poisson regression, adjusting for potential confounders. Mediation analysis of two systemic inflammatory biomarkers, namely white blood cell count (WBC) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels, was performed.

Results

The study population included 901 hypertension‐free participants, aged 50–73 years. Greater mean PD, higher percentage of sites with PD ≥ 6 mm and poor oral hygiene were associated with elevated systolic blood pressure and increased hypertension risk (relative risks = 1.17 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.34], 1.13 [95% CI: 1.02–1.26] and 1.08 [95% CI: 1.03–1.13], respectively). Periodontitis and poor oral hygiene were associated with higher WBC and CRP levels (p < .05), which, in turn, were associated with increased hypertension risk (p < .05). WBC and CRP jointly mediated 14.1%–26.9% of the associations between periodontal variables and incident hypertension.

Conclusions

Periodontitis and poor oral hygiene were associated with increased hypertension risk, and systemic inflammation was, in part, a mediator of these associations.
Comparison of holotomographic microscopy and coherence‐controlled holographic microscopy
Authors: Chvalova Vera , Vomastek Tomas , Grousl Tomas
Published: January 2024

Quantitative phase imaging (QPI) is a powerful tool for label‐free visualisation of living cells. Here, we compare two QPI microscopes – the Telight Q‐Phase microscope and the Nanolive 3D Cell Explorer‐fluo microscope. Both systems provide unbiased information about cell morphology, such as individual cell dry mass, perimeter and area. The Q‐Phase microscope uses artefact‐free, coherence‐controlled holographic imaging technology to visualise cells in real time with minimal phototoxicity. The 3D Cell Explorer‐fluo employs laser‐based holotomography to reconstruct 3D images of living cells, visualising their internal structures and dynamics. Here, we analysed the strengths and limitations of both microscopes when examining two morphologically distinct cell lines – the cuboidal epithelial MDCK cells which form multicellular clusters and solitary growing Rat2 fibroblasts. We focus mainly on the ability of the devices to generate images suitable for single‐cell segmentation by the built‐in software, and we discuss the segmentation results and quantitative data generated from the segmented images. We show that both microscopes offer slightly different advantages, and the choice between them depends on the specific requirements and goals of the user.
Healthcare provision for Swedish persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Björne Petra , Flygare Wallén Eva
Published: January 2024

This paper aims to give a short description of Swedish healthcare provision for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Swedish persons with IDD should have access to the general healthcare system on the same terms as the general population, and thereby enjoy equal opportunities for healthcare of good quality. Reports from government agencies and interest groups, however, describe a decentralised and fragmented healthcare system that requires significant coordination; a lack of adjustments; a lack of specialised healthcare professionals; and gaps in healthcare provision. Research in recent years has reported unequal access to planned healthcare; excess mortality and premature deaths; and insufficient or inadequate support in end‐of‐life care. We conclude that health inequalities and healthcare challenges faced by Swedish persons with IDD might be caused by obstacles at several structural levels. Allowing persons with IDD to access timely and adequate healthcare requires the development of better opportunities for coordination of healthcare and social services, as well as training for healthcare professionals and direct support staff.
Cognitive performance of air personnel following sleep deprivation
Authors: Algranati Daniela , Nakdimon Idan , Levkovsky Anna , Gordon Barak , Ben‐Ari Oded
Published: January 2024

Air forces have developed several methods for reducing fatigue‐related accidents. In the Israeli Air Force, the “Dead Tired” workshop was developed with the purpose of presenting aircrew with their objective performance under sleep deprivation conditions. The aim of this study was to examine the cognitive abilities of both aircrew and unmanned aerial vehicle operators, both objectively and subjectively. All Israeli aircrew and unmanned aerial vehicle operators participated in a “Dead Tired” workshop. During the workshop, the participants performed the Psychomotor Vigilance Task, a task that tests their attention abilities, while gathering information on their subjective sleepiness in the form of a Karolinska Sleepiness Scale. Data of 366 participants (25 females), of whom 187 were unmanned aerial vehicle operators and 179 were aircrew, were obtained; and the mean age was 21.8 ± 1.2 years (range 19–26 years). A significant decline in task performance was seen following 20 hr of wakefulness in both unmanned aerial vehicle operators and aircrew (p < 0.001). Unmanned aerial vehicle operators' performance was significantly better throughout the majority of the workshop (p < 0.001). Recovery after the full‐night's sleep was seen for unmanned aerial vehicle operators, but not for aircrew (p = 0.008). A high correlation was seen between Psychomotor Vigilance Task performance and Karolinska Sleepiness Scale responses (correlation coefficient = 0.93). Sleep deprivation negatively impacted the performance of both groups of participants. Unmanned aerial vehicle operators were found to be more resilient to the effects of sleep deprivation and were quicker to recover in comparison to aircrew.
Aging later but faster: how StCDF1 regulates senescence in Solanum tuberosum
Authors: Shi Li , de Biolley Laura , Shaikh Maroof Ahmed , de Vries Michiel E. , Mittmann Sybille Ursula , Visser Richard G. F. , Prat Salome , Bachem Christian W. B.
Published: January 2024

In potato, maturity is assessed by leaf senescence, which, in turn, affects yield and tuber quality traits. Previously, we showed that the CYCLING DOF FACTOR1 (StCDF1) locus controls leaf maturity in addition to the timing of tuberization. Here, we provide evidence that StCDF1 controls senescence onset separately from senescence progression and the total life cycle duration.

We used molecular–biological approaches (DNA‐Affinity Purification Sequencing) to identify a direct downstream target of StCDF1, named ORESARA1 (StORE1S02), which is a NAC transcription factor acting as a positive senescence regulator.

By overexpressing StORE1S02 in the long life cycle genotype, early onset of senescence was shown, but the total life cycle remained long. At the same time, StORE1S02 knockdown lines have a delayed senescence onset. Furthermore, we show that StORE1 proteins play an indirect role in sugar transport from source to sink by regulating expression of SWEET sugar efflux transporters during leaf senescence.

This study clarifies the important link between tuber formation and senescence and provides insight into the molecular regulatory network of potato leaf senescence onset. We propose a complex role of StCDF1 in the regulation of potato plant senescence.
Physicochemical characterization of novel biomass‐based microcrystalline cellulose derived from agro‐industrial residues of Rosa indica petals
Authors: G Suganya Priyadharshini , Sivanantham Gokulkumar , Divakaran Divya , Suyambulingam Indran , P Senthamaraikannan , Murugan Aravindh , M.R. Sanjay , Siengchin Suchart
Published: January 2024

The growing demand for sustainable materials is driving the adoption of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) from renewable plant sources. This study investigated the isolation of MCC from Rosa indica petal (RIP) waste via acid hydrolysis. RIP was pretreated with alkali extraction and bleaching prior to acid hydrolysis. Chemical analysis revealed the composition of pretreated RIP was 79.56 wt.% cellulose, 9.87 wt.% hemicelluloses, and 5.69 wt.% lignin. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed reduced peaks at 3332.88, 2851.95, and 1577.75 cm−1 after alkali treatment, indicating removal of hemicelluloses and lignin. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) found the crystallinity index of the isolated Rose indica petals cellulose (RIPC) MCC was 72.31%, suggesting effective purification. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed RIPC MCC had a decomposition temperature of 296.65°C, superior to raw RIP at 211.25°C. In addition, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed RIPC MCC had fibrous morphology with fiber diameters ranging from 16.2–22.4 nm. In summary, RIPC MCC with high purity, crystallinity and thermal stability was successfully isolated from RIP waste via acid hydrolysis. The high performance of RIPC MCC demonstrates the potential of RIP leftovers as a renewable source for MCC production. RIPC MCC could serve as a promising reinforcement filler in nanocomposites due to its advantageous properties.
Risk‐based thinking for extreme events: What do terrorism and climate change have in common?
Authors: Stewart Mark
Published: January 2024

Terrorism and climate change debates are often characterized by worst‐case thinking, cost neglect, probability neglect, and avoidance of the notion of acceptable risk. This is not unexpected when dealing with extreme events. However, it can result in a frightened public, costly policy outcomes, and wasteful expenditures. The paper will describe how risk‐based approaches are well suited to infrastructure decision‐making for extreme events. Risk management concepts will be illustrated with current research of risk‐based assessment of climate adaptation engineering strategies including designing new houses in Australia subject to cyclones and extreme wind events. It will be shown that small improvements to house designs at a one‐off cost of several thousand dollars per house can reduce damage risks by 70%–80% and achieve billions of dollars of net benefit for community resilience—this helps offset some the predicted adverse effects of climate change for a modest cost. The effect of risk perceptions, insurance, and economic incentives is explored for another climate adaption measure. The paper will also highlight that there is much to be optimistic about the future, and in the ability of risk‐based thinking to meet many challenges.
A compendium of evidence‐based practice instruments for nursing education, practice and research
Authors: Halm Margo A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Evidence‐based practice (EBP) is a cornerstone for safe, high‐quality care. Implementation science recognizes that many factors influence the successful use of EBP, from attitudes and beliefs, self‐efficacy, and knowledge and skills to contextual factors related to unit and organizational culture. This integrative review aimed to identify valid and reliable instruments measuring critical EBP domains with nursing professionals.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted. CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Joanna Briggs were searched to identify original research publications testing the reliability and validity of EBP nursing instruments.

Results

Of 347 records, 48 studies representing 50 instruments were identified as having undergone psychometric testing, thus meeting the inclusion criteria. Most instruments were validated in English‐speaking countries. Content validity, construct validity, and internal consistency standards were met for 70%, 62%, and 94% of instruments, respectively. Limited testing was found for other types of validity, test–retest reliability, acceptability, feasibility, or responsivity and sensitivity, thus representing gaps in psychometric validation. Less than 20% of instruments have been translated to other languages limiting their use to advance EBP worldwide.

Linking Evidence to Action

Eighty‐two percent of instruments met minimal psychometric standards and are sound for education, practice, and research. Expanding psychometric testing and utilizing validated EBP instruments will further the EBP movement to improve global population health.
Numerical Study of Eccentric Jet Impingement Cooling on a Heated Cylindrical Surface
Authors: Chauhan Vikash Kumar Singh , Kumari Karuna , Kumar Pankaj , Venkiteswaran Vinod Kumar , Awad Mohamed M.
Published: January 2024

This article presents a comprehensive numerical analysis of the effects of cooling a cylinder using an eccentric slot jet impingement cooling (SJIC). The study focuses on examining the thermal and fluid behavior when the slot jet is offcenter, during impingement cooling. Several turbulence models from the k–ε and k–ω families were compared by evaluating the local Nusselt number profiles at different locations around the cylinder, and these results were compared to experimental data. The findings indicate that the SST k–ω model outperforms the other turbulence models in estimating the Nusselt number in the stagnation region, while the standard k–ω model shows improved performance elsewhere on the cylinder. Furthermore, this study reveals a decrease in the maximum local Nusselt number and a shift in the direction of the nozzle displacement. The presence of swirling/recirculating fluid at the trailing end of the cylinder enhances heat transfer near the back end of the cylinder. The separation and the reattachment of the fluid stream differ depending on the Reynolds number, with low Reynolds numbers resulting in reattachment on the side of the slot jet and higher Reynolds numbers leading to reattachment in the opposite direction. Additionally, the length of the recirculation and swirling zones increases as the nozzle-to-cylinder spacing (H/S) increases. However, as the eccentricity (E/S) increases, the size of the swirl circulation zones decreases and completely vanishes for E/S = 4. This study provides valuable insights for optimal cooling design.
Resonant ultrasound spectroscopy applications: Elastic moduli computation with x-ray computed tomography input for irregularly shaped objects
Authors: Adebisi R. A. , Lesthaeghe T. J. , Cherry M. R. , Sathish S.
Published: January 2024

Resonant ultrasound spectroscopy is a technique that uses a combination of experimentally measured resonant frequencies and physics-based computation of these frequencies to determine the entire set of single crystal elastic moduli of the material. Computation of the resonances is most often accomplished using the Rayleigh–Ritz energy minimization technique, and a basis function that requires sample with canonical geometry, such as a cylinder or a rectangular parallelepiped. Any deviation from canonical geometry can have a significant impact on the calculated resonance frequencies and the inverted elastic moduli. To overcome this limitation, this paper describes an approach that uses x-ray computed tomography data to generate accurate solid part model of components with complex geometry. The part model is then imported into an off-the-shelf finite element method (FEM) software to perform the forward problem. The FEM was combined with surrogate modeling for computation of resonance frequencies of both canonical and non-canonical samples, and ultimately, the inversion of elastic moduli.
Structural basis for the ligand recognition and signaling of free fatty acid receptors
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Guseinov Abdul-Akim , Jenkins Laura , Li Kunpeng , Tikhonova Irina G. , Milligan Graeme , Zhang Cheng
Published: January 2024

Free fatty acid receptors 1 to 4 (FFA1 to FFA4) are class A G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs). FFA1 to FFA3 share substantial sequence similarity, whereas FFA4 is unrelated. However, FFA1 and FFA4 are activated by long-chain fatty acids, while FFA2 and FFA3 respond to short-chain fatty acids generated by intestinal microbiota. FFA1, FFA2, and FFA4 are potential drug targets for metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Here, we determined the active structures of FFA1 and FFA4 bound to docosahexaenoic acid, FFA4 bound to the synthetic agonist TUG-891, and butyrate-bound FFA2, each complexed with an engineered heterotrimeric Gqprotein (miniGq), by cryo–electron microscopy. Together with computational simulations and mutagenesis studies, we elucidated the similarities and differences in the binding modes of fatty acid ligands to their respective GPCRs. Our findings unveiled distinct mechanisms of receptor activation and G protein coupling. We anticipate that these outcomes will facilitate structure-based drug development and underpin future research on this group of GPCRs.
Women’s subsistence networks scaffold cultural transmission among BaYaka foragers in the Congo Basin
Authors: Jang Haneul , Ross Cody T. , Boyette Adam H. , Janmaat Karline R.L. , Kandza Vidrige , Redhead Daniel
Published: January 2024

In hunter-gatherer societies, women’s subsistence activities are crucial for food provisioning and children’s social learning but are understudied relative to men’s activities. To understand the structure of women’s foraging networks, we present 230 days of focal-follow data in a BaYaka community. To analyze these data, we develop a stochastic blockmodel for repeat observations with uneven sampling. We find that women’s subsistence networks are characterized by cooperation between kin, gender homophily, and mixed age-group composition. During early childhood, individuals preferentially coforage with adult kin, but those in middle childhood and adolescence are likely to coforage with nonkin peers, providing opportunities for horizontal learning. By quantifying the probability of coforaging ties across age classes and relatedness levels, our findings provide insights into the scope for social learning during women’s subsistence activities in a real-world foraging population and provide ground-truth values for key parameters used in formal models of cumulative culture.
Imaging privacy threats from an ambient light sensor
Authors: Liu Yang , Wornell Gregory W. , Freeman William T. , Durand Frédo
Published: January 2024

Embedded sensors in smart devices pose privacy risks, often unintentionally leaking user information. We investigate how combining an ambient light sensor with a device display can capture an image of touch interaction without a camera. By displaying a known video sequence, we use the light sensor to capture reflected light intensity variations partially blocked by the touching hand, formulating an inverse problem similar to single-pixel imaging. Because of the sensors’ heavy quantization and low sensitivity, we propose an inversion algorithm involving anℓp-norm dequantizer and a deep denoiser as natural image priors, to reconstruct images from the screen’s perspective. We demonstrate touch interactions and eavesdropping hand gestures on an off-the-shelf Android tablet. Despite limitations in resolution and speed, we aim to raise awareness of potential security/privacy threats induced by the combination of passive and active components in smart devices and promote the development of ways to mitigate them.
Controlling intracavity dual-comb soliton motion in a single-fiber laser
Authors: Lang Julia A. , Hutter Sarah R. , Leitenstorfer Alfred , Herink Georg
Published: January 2024

Ultrafast science builds on dynamic compositions of precisely timed light pulses, and evolving groups of pulses are observed in almost every mode-locked laser. However, the underlying physics has rarely been controlled or used until now. Here, we demonstrate a general approach to control soliton motion inside a dual-comb laser and the programmable synthesis of ultrashort pulse patterns. Introducing single-pulse modulation inside an Er:fiber laser, we rapidly shift the timing between two temporally separated soliton combs. Their superposition outside the cavity yields ultrashort soliton sequences. On the basis of real-time spectral interferometry, we observe the deterministic switching of intersoliton separation arising from the interplay of attracting and repulsing forces via ultrafast nonlinearity and laser gain dynamics. Harnessing these insights, we demonstrate the high-speed all-optical synthesis of nano- to picosecond pump-probe delays and programmable free-form soliton trajectories. This concept may pave the way to a new class of all-optical delay generators for ultrafast measurements at unprecedented high tuning, cycling, and acquisition speeds.
Comparing divisome organization between vegetative and sporulating
Bacillus subtilis
at the nanoscale using DNA-PAINT
Authors: Cramer Kimberly , Reinhardt Susanne C. M. , Auer Alexander , Shin Jae Yen , Jungmann Ralf
Published: January 2024

Spore-forming bacteria have two distinct division modes: sporulation and vegetative division. The placement of the foundational division machinery component (Z-ring) within the division plane is contingent on the division mode. However, investigating if and how division is performed differently between sporulating and vegetative cells remains challenging, particularly at the nanoscale. Here, we use DNA-PAINT super-resolution microscopy to compare the 3D assembly and distribution patterns of key division proteins SepF, ZapA, DivIVA, and FtsZ. We determine that ZapA and SepF placement within the division plane mimics that of the Z-ring in vegetative and sporulating cells. We find that DivIVA assemblies differ between vegetative and sporulating cells. Furthermore, we reveal that SepF assembles into ~50-nm arcs independent of division mode. We propose a nanoscale model in which symmetric or asymmetric placement of the Z-ring and early divisome proteins is a defining characteristic of vegetative or sporulating cells, respectively, and regulation of septal thickness differs between division modes.
Three-dimensional nanoscale metal, metal oxide, and semiconductor frameworks through DNA-programmable assembly and templating
Authors: Michelson Aaron , Subramanian Ashwanth , Kisslinger Kim , Tiwale Nikhil , Xiang Shuting , Shen Eric , Kahn Jason S. , Nykypanchuk Dmytro , Yan Hanfei , Nam Chang-Yong , Gang Oleg
Published: January 2024

Controlling the three-dimensional (3D) nanoarchitecture of inorganic materials is imperative for enabling their novel mechanical, optical, and electronic properties. Here, by exploiting DNA-programmable assembly, we establish a general approach for realizing designed 3D ordered inorganic frameworks. Through inorganic templating of DNA frameworks by liquid- and vapor-phase infiltrations, we demonstrate successful nanofabrication of diverse classes of inorganic frameworks from metal, metal oxide and semiconductor materials, as well as their combinations, including zinc, aluminum, copper, molybdenum, tungsten, indium, tin, and platinum, and composites such as aluminum-doped zinc oxide, indium tin oxide, and platinum/aluminum-doped zinc oxide. The open 3D frameworks have features on the order of nanometers with architecture prescribed by the DNA frames and self-assembled lattice. Structural and spectroscopic studies reveal the composition and organization of diverse inorganic frameworks, as well as the optoelectronic properties of selected materials. The work paves the road toward establishing a 3D nanoscale lithography.
Prospective study design and data analysis in UK Biobank
Authors: Allen Naomi E. , Lacey Ben , Lawlor Deborah A. , Pell Jill P. , Gallacher John , Smeeth Liam , Elliott Paul , Matthews Paul M. , Lyons Ronan A. , Whetton Anthony D. , Lucassen Anneke , Hurles Matthew E. , Chapman Michael , Roddam Andrew W. , Fitzpatrick Natalie K. , Hansell Anna L. , Hardy Rebecca , Marioni Riccardo E. , O’Donnell Valerie B. , Williams Julie , Lindgren Cecilia M. , Effingham Mark , Sellors Jonathan , Danesh John , Collins Rory
Published: January 2024

Population-based prospective studies, such as UK Biobank, are valuable for generating and testing hypotheses about the potential causes of human disease. We describe how UK Biobank’s study design, data access policies, and approaches to statistical analysis can help to minimize error and improve the interpretability of research findings, with implications for other population-based prospective studies being established worldwide.