bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grade level influence in middle school students' spatial‐scientific understandings of lunar phases
Authors: Wilhelm Jennifer , Cole Merryn , Driessen Emily , Ringl Samantha , Hightower Andromeda , Gonzalez‐Napoleoni Javier , Jones Jasemine
Published: April 2022

This research with middle school students from Kentucky (KY) and Nevada (NV) provides a snapshot of students' spatial‐scientific understandings as we explored how well students understand lunar‐related content, both spatially and scientifically, after receiving instruction with similar curricular Earth‐Space content. Utilizing a lens of spatial reasoning ability, we further compared the ways middle level grade (sixth vs. eighth) factored into how well students comprehend the complexities of the Earth/Moon/Sun system and the cause of lunar phases. NV teaches Moon phases in eighth grade (age of 13–14) while KY teaches phases in sixth grade (age of 11–12). To be clear, we are not claiming that sixth graders and eighth graders are similar cognitively. Since phases are only taught formally once (at the middle level), we are exploring how well students understand these lunar‐related, spatial‐scientific concepts at the conclusion of their formal instruction. The majority of the states teach lunar phases either in sixth grade or in eighth grade; it is a state's choice. The rationale for this study is to begin the conversation regarding Does grade level matter on science content that requires spatial reasoning ability? This study will begin to shed light on this topic. The research questions specifically investigated for this study were: (1) How do sixth and eighth grade students compare in terms of their spatial ability and lunar knowledge as measured via content surveys? (2) How do sixth and eighth grade students compare in their spatial awareness and description of the Earth/Moon/Sun system as measured via clinical interviews? (3) How do quantitative and qualitative datasets compare/contrast with each other to create a complex snapshot of sixth graders versus eighth graders spatial‐scientific understandings of the Moon and its phases?
The influence of becoming a parent on political participation in the United States
Authors: Jackson Robert A. , Pietryka Matthew
Published: April 2022

Objective

Focusing on the United States, this study assesses the near‐term influence of introducing a child into a household on a parent's likelihood of participating in politics.

Methods

Logistic regression analysis and exact matching of data from the November 2010 and November 2014 Current Population Surveys. Conditional, fixed‐effects logistic reygression analysis of data from the 2010–2014 Cooperative Congressional Election Study Panel Survey.

Results

Cross‐sectional regressions and exact‐matching results indicate a negative relationship between becoming a parent and numerous forms of political participation, including voter turnout. However, recognizing potential threats to causal inference, analyses that leverage panel data and sensitivity analysis applied to the exact‐matching estimates provide weaker support for a causal claim.

Conclusion

The introduction of a child into a household appears to be associated with attenuated parental civic engagement in the near term, but the evidence provides weaker support for a causal claim.
Alternative splicing of OsGS1;1 affects nitrogen‐use efficiency, grain development, and amylose content in rice
Authors: Liu Xiaolan , Tian Yunlu , Chi Wenchao , Zhang Hanzhi , Yu Jun , Chen Gaoming , Wu Wei , Jiang Xingzhou , Wang Saisai , Lin Zhixi , Xuan Wei , Ye Jian , Wang Baoxiang , Liu Yan , Sun Zhiguang , Xu Dayong , Wang Chunming , Wan Jianmin
Published: April 2022

Excessive nitrogen fertilizer application is harmful to the environment and reduces the quality of cereal crops. Maintaining crop yields under low nitrogen (LN) conditions and improving quality are important goals for cereal crop breeding. Although the effects of nitrogen assimilation on crop nitrogen‐use efficiency (NUE) have been intensively studied, natural variations of the key assimilation genes underlying grain development and quality are largely unclear. Here, we identified an NUE‐associated gene, OsGS1;1, encoding glutamine synthase, through genome‐wide association analysis, followed by validation experiments and functional analysis. Fifteen single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in the OsGS1;1 region led to alternative splicing that generated two functional transcripts: OsGS1;1a and OsGS1;1b. The elite haplotype of OsGS1;1 showed high OsGS1;1b activity, which improved NUE, affected grain development, and reduced amylose content. The results show that OsGS1;1, which is induced under LN conditions, affects grain formation by regulating sugar metabolism and may provide a new avenue for the breeding of high‐yield and high‐quality rice (Oryza sativa).
Ultrasonographic evaluation of the coelomic cavity in Rhode Island Red hybrid hens (Gallus gallus domesticus)
Authors: Gros Lucile , Cococcetta Ciro , Coutant Thomas , Gomes Eymeric , Hahn Harriet , Huynh Minh
Published: April 2022

Backyard chickens are gaining popularity, and so is individual veterinary care for their health and management. Ultrasonography represents an important part of the imaging diagnostic arsenal in veterinary medicine; however, published data on its use in chickens are scarce and mostly focus on the reproductive tract. The objectives of this prospective, reference interval study were to describe a standard protocol for a full coelomic evaluation and the normal ultrasonographic appearance and measurements of the coelomic organs in awake and anesthetized healthy hens. The liver, gallbladder, gonad, gastrointestinal tract, pancreas, and spleen were clearly visualized in 21 Rhode Island Red hybrid hens (8 immatures, 13 adults) included in this study. In all animals, there was a scant amount of coelomic fluid, which was more visible at the cardiac apex. The cysticoenteric duct and hepatoenteric duct were visualized in 57% (12/21) of the hens. Seven hens were anesthetized and placed in dorsal decubitus, as the kidneys were not visualized in the hens while standing. Reference intervals were calculated for the splenic short and long axes, proventricular wall thickness, ventricular wall thickness, and duodenal wall thickness. Reference values were measured for the thickness of the pancreas, gallbladder wall, and kidneys, as well as the diameters of the biliary ducts. Moreover, five hens of different breeds were examined, and the results obtained were comparable to those of previous studies. The results of this study support the use of ultrasonography as a diagnostic tool in Rhode Island Red hybrid hens and provide reference ranges for use in hens with clinical diseases involving coelomic organs.
Arthroscopic removal of palmar intermediate carpal bone fracture fragments in four horses using a transthecal approach through the carpal flexor tendon sheath
Authors: Hewitt‐Dedman Charlotte L. , O'Neill Henry D. , Bladon Bruce M.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To describe the removal of palmar intermediate carpal bone (ICB) fracture fragments using a transthecal approach through the carpal flexor tendon sheath.

Study design

Case series.

Animals

Four horses with fractures of the palmar aspect of the ICB.

Methods

Two horses were injured when falling and two during recovery from general anesthesia. Three horses underwent MRI to supplement conventional imaging. Three horses had concurrent fractures of the radial and/or accessory carpal bones. Conventional proximolateral carpal sheath arthroscope and instrument portals were used, supplemented with a medial instrument portal through the carpal flexor retinaculum to access the palmar carpal ligament. Optimized dissection through the latter was facilitated by needle guidance and radiography. The fragment was dissected from the soft tissue attachments and the palmar ICB fragments retrieved through the carpal sheath in all horses. Surgery time was 85 to 142 min.

Results

Limitations of this technique include a long surgery time and the potential for hemorrhage to impair visibility during surgery. All four horses were discharged 3 to 8 days postoperatively. Three horses returned to full athletic work within 9 months postoperatively and one horse was euthanized due to persistent lameness.

Conclusion

A tenoscopic transthecal carpal flexor tendon sheath approach provides access for removal of palmar ICB fracture fragments but should be viewed as an advanced arthroscopic procedure.

Clinical significance

A transthecal approach through the carpal flexor tendon sheath offers an alternative technique for removal of palmar ICB fracture fragments.
Exploration on the Reform Strategy of Teaching Quality Evaluation System in Chinese Vocational Colleges
Authors: Wang Jie , Zou Shiping , Shen Yulin
Published: April 2022

The teaching quality evaluation of vocational education is not only an important way to meet the national identification of technical talents, but also an objective reflection of the comprehensive management level and college running quality of vocational colleges. However, the teaching evaluation of vocational education in China has not formed a unified and standardized management system framework. Therefore, in the new era of Xi Jinping, China's research on the evaluation of teaching quality of occupation technology education is more important. PDCA cycle is Deming Cycle, which is a model of continuous quality improvement, including four repeated steps: Plan, Do, Check and Act. This is exactly the same as the process of teaching quality evaluation in vocational colleges. Based on the concept of PDCA cycle theory, this paper attempts to use PDCA method to increase the innovative potential of teaching quality evaluation, and construct a set of closed-loop evaluation management scheme of teaching quality in the whole process and all-round spiral dynamic cycle mode-a five in one pluralistic structural teaching quality evaluation and management system of vocational colleges, families, enterprises, third-party institutions and society. This paper also discusses how PDCA method will affect the design and reform of teaching quality evaluation of vocational education in China, and deeply analyzes the problems and countermeasures that vocational colleges may face after trying to implement the pluralistic structural teaching quality evaluation and management system.
Probing the Accuracy of Experimental Data on Nusselt Numbers Within Miniature Heat Sinks
Authors: Pourghasemi Mahyar , Fathi Nima
Published: April 2022

Achieving accurate experimental data in conjugate heat transfer studies to calculate Nusselt number can be challenging due to its complex three-dimensional thermal hydraulics nature. This study is devoted to evaluating the accuracy and reliability of experimental approaches used to calculate the Nusselt number in miniature heat sinks. It is observed that three major parameters including (1) axial heat conduction within the solid substrate of heat sinks, (2) thermal contact resistance, and (3) assumed uniform wall temperature, as well as wall heat flux distributions, influence the reported experimental data in the literature. The results obtained from the developed analytical and computational models in this study revealed that the assumptions of local uniform wall temperature and heat flux distributions for small-scale heat sinks result in underestimated Nusselt numbers calculated from experiments. At lower Reynolds number (<200) flows in miniature heat sinks with a high solid to fluid thermal conductivity ratio (>> 1), it is shown that the fluid bulk temperature should be measured away from the heat sink inlet and outlet to minimize the effect of axial heat conduction within the solid substrate of the microscale heat sinks on calculated Nusselt numbers. As the third important parameter, the influence of thermal contact resistance on the Nusselt number calculation in a miniature heat sink is studied where thermal slip length is considered. Finally, the concurrent effects of thermal contact resistance and thermal developing region are considered to explicate the obtained trends in the experimental Nusselt numbers dataset.
Toward a New Mathematical Definition of Datums in Standards to Support Advanced Manufacturing
Authors: Shakarji Craig M. , Srinivasan Vijay
Published: April 2022

Recent advances in the digitization of manufacturing have prompted ASME and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards committees to reexamine the definition of datums. Any new definition of datums considered by the standards committees should cover all datum feature types used in design and support both traditional metrological methods and new digital measurement techniques. This is a challenging task that requires some careful compromise. This paper describes and analyzes various alternatives considered by the standards committees. Among them is a new mathematical definition of datums based on constrained least-squares fitting. It seems to provide the best compromise and has the potential to support advanced manufacturing that is increasingly dependent on digital technologies.
Signal Estimation for Vehicle Body Accelerations Using Piecewise Linear System Identification in the Frequency Domain
Authors: Zheng Xueke , Zhuang Cheng , Xiao Shuixin , Qiu Yu , Zhang Jun , Li Mian
Published: April 2022

In this work, we investigate a signal estimation problem which is common and critical for durability design of vehicle bodies. The relation between the frequency responses of accelerometers is the target to model so that the ones of easy-to-measure accelerometers can estimate the responses of hard-to-measure accelerometers. A piecewise linear frequency-domain identification method relying on finite impulse response (FIR) models is proposed and performed to tackle the nonlinearity issue in the signal estimation problems: first, the interesting frequency range is segmented into three subranges which are clearly identified by peak histograms of frequency signals. Then, FIR models which provide a satisfactory description of the system are constructed to estimate the frequency responses of the interesting signals at subranges, one for each. The performance of the proposed approach is validated by using real-world data under multiple working conditions. The results show that the proposed method has a good estimation accuracy, and it brings the benefit that the number of accelerometers can be significantly reduced during the durability design of vehicle bodies.
Vectorized Formulation of Newton-Euler Dynamics for Efficiently Computing Three-Dimensional Folding Chains
Authors: Fass T. H. , Hao Guangbo , Cantillon-Murphy Pádraig
Published: April 2022

Within the wide field of self-assembly, the self-folding chain has unique potential for reliable and repeatable assembly of three-dimensional structures as demonstrated by protein biosynthesis. This potential could be translated to self-reconfiguring robots by utilizing magnetic forces between the chain components as a driving force for the folding process. Due to the constraints introduced by the joints between the chain components, simulation of the dynamics of longer chains is computationally intensive and challenging. This article presents a novel analytical approach to formulate the Newton–Euler dynamics of a self-reconfiguring chain in a single vectorized differential equation. The vectorized differential equation allows for a convenient implementation of a parallel processing architecture using single instruction multiple data (SIMD) or graphical processing unit (GPU) computation and as a result can improve simulation time of rigid body chains. Properties of existing interpretations of the Newton–Euler and Euler–Lagrange algorithms are discussed in their efficiency to compute the dynamics of rigid body chains. Finally, GPU and SIMD-supported simulation, based on the vectorized Newton–Euler equations described in this article, are compared, showing a significant improvement in computation time using GPU architecture for long chains with certain chain geometry.
Comparison of Physical Activity Between Children With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Rech John P. , Irwin J. Megan , Rosen Adam B. , Baldwin Jessica , Schenkelberg Michaela
Published: April 2022

Lower levels of physical activity (PA) are often observed among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) compared to children without ASD; however, some studies have demonstrated few to no PA differences between the two groups. The purpose of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to compare the differences in PA between children (2–18 years) with and without ASD. An exhaustive search of five online databases was completed, and 31 studies met the inclusion criteria. A pooled random-effects Hedges’s g model was used to determine differences in PA between children with and without ASD. Children with ASD were found to be significantly less physically active than children without ASD (Δ = −0.62, p < .001). Subgroup analyses revealed significant moderate to large differences in PA by intensity level, age, setting, and measurement methods. Future studies are needed to further explore the underlying mechanisms associated with lower levels of PA among children with ASD.
Utility of Gait Biofeedback Training to Improve Walking Biomechanics in Patients With Chronic Ankle Instability: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Koldenhoven Rachel , Simpson Jeffrey D. , Forsyth Lauren , Donovan Luke , Torp Danielle M.
Published: April 2022

Clinical Scenario: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a condition that involves feelings of the ankle “giving way,” pain, and decreased self-reported function. Individuals with CAI often demonstrate persistent biomechanical impairments during gait that are associated with repetitive lateral ankle sprains (LAS) and the development of early onset ankle posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA). Traditional rehabilitation strategies have not successfully improved these reported aberrant gait biomechanics; thus, traditional rehabilitation may not effectively reduce the risk of recurrent LAS and ankle OA among individuals with CAI. Conversely, targeted gait training with biofeedback may be effective at decreasing the risk of recurring LAS and ankle OA if these rehabilitation strategies can promote individuals with CAI to develop a gait strategy that protects against subsequent LAS and ankle OA. Clinical Question: Can targeted gait biofeedback interventions cause individuals with CAI to implement a walking gait pattern that is not associated with recurrent LAS and ankle OA? Summary of Findings: Five studies assessed gait biofeedback interventions targeting plantar pressure and/or ankle kinematics involving visual biofeedback (n = 3), auditory biofeedback (n = 1), and haptic biofeedback (n = 1). Plantar pressure was medially shifted during a single session while receiving biofeedback (n = 2), immediately after biofeedback (n = 1), and 5 minutes after receiving biofeedback (n = 1) in 3 studies. One study demonstrated reduced ankle inversion after 8 sessions of biofeedback training. One study did not substantially improve plantar pressure while receiving visual feedback. Clinical Bottom Line: Targeted gait training strategies appear effective in acutely altering gait biomechanics in individuals with CAI while receiving, and immediately after, biofeedback has been removed. Long-term outcomes are not currently established for gait training strategies in those with CAI. Strength of Recommendation: Limited evidence (grade B) suggests that targeted gait biofeedback strategies can alter specific CAI gait biomechanics to a strategy not associated with recurrent LAS, and ankle OA immediately, and after, multiple sessions of gait training.
Genomic Screening of Antimicrobial Resistance Markers in UK and US
Campylobacter
Isolates Highlights Stability of Resistance over an 18-Year Period
Authors: van Vliet Arnoud H. M. , Thakur Siddhartha , Prada Joaquin M. , Mehat Jai W. , La Ragione Roberto M.
Published: April 2022

Campylobacter jejuni
and
Campylobacter coli
are important bacterial causes of human foodborne illness. Despite several years of reduced antibiotics usage in livestock production in the United Kingdom (UK) and United States (US), a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) persists in
Campylobacter
.
Delamanid Added to an Optimized Background Regimen in Children with Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis: Results of a Phase I/II Clinical Trial
Authors: Garcia-Prats Anthony J. , Frias Melchior , van der Laan Louvina , De Leon Anjanette , Gler Maria Tarcela , Schaaf H. Simon , Hesseling Anneke C. , Malikaarjun Suresh , Hafkin Jeffrey
Published: April 2022

Delamanid has been demonstrated to be safe and effective for treatment of adult multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and has been approved by the European Commission for treatment of pediatric MDR-TB patients at least 10 kg in weight, making the drug no longer limited to adults. A 10-day phase I age deescalation study was conducted, followed by a 6-month phase II extension study, to assess the pharmacokinetics, safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of delamanid when combined with optimized background regimen (OBR) in children (birth to 17 years) with MDR-TB. Delamanid administered at 100 mg twice-daily (BID), 50 mg BID, and 25 mg BID resulted in exposures in 12- to 17- (
n
 = 7), 6- to 11- (
n
 = 6), and 3- to 5-year-olds (
n
 = 12), respectively, comparable with those in adults at the approved adult dosage (100 mg BID).
Helicobacter pylori Infection, Its Laboratory Diagnosis, and Antimicrobial Resistance: a Perspective of Clinical Relevance
Authors: Ansari Shamshul , Yamaoka Yoshio
Published: April 2022

Despite the recent decrease in overall prevalence of
Helicobacter pylori
infection, morbidity and mortality rates associated with gastric cancer remain high. The antimicrobial resistance developments and treatment failure are fueling the global burden of
H. pylori
-associated gastric complications.
New Online Accommodations Are Not Enough: The Mismatch between Student Needs and Supports Given for Students with Disabilities during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gin Logan E. , Pais Danielle C. , Parrish Kristen D. , Brownell Sara E. , Cooper Katelyn M.
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in nearly all universities transitioning their in-person courses to online instruction. Recent work from our research team conducted in Spring 2020 established that the immediate transition to online learning presented novel challenges for students with disabilities: students were unable to access previously established accommodations and there was a lack of information from Disability Resource Centers (DRCs) about adapting accommodations to online environments.
PMRT1, a
Plasmodium
-Specific Parasite Plasma Membrane Transporter, Is Essential for Asexual and Sexual Blood Stage Development
Authors: Wichers Jan Stephan , Mesén-Ramírez Paolo , Fuchs Gwendolin , Yu-Strzelczyk Jing , Stäcker Jan , von Thien Heidrun , Alder Arne , Henshall Isabelle , Liffner Benjamin , Nagel Georg , Löw Christian , Wilson Danny , Spielmann Tobias , Gao Shiqiang , Gilberger Tim-Wolf , Bachmann Anna , Strauss Jan
Published: April 2022

Plasmodium falciparum
-infected erythrocytes possess multiple compartments with designated membranes. Transporter proteins embedded in these membranes not only facilitate movement of nutrients, metabolites, and other molecules between these compartments, but also are common therapeutic targets and can confer antimalarial drug resistance.
Genomic Analysis of Bacteriophage BUCT86 Infecting Klebsiella Pneumoniae
Authors: Han Ke , Zhu Yinuo , Li Fei , Li Mengzhe , An Xiaoping , Song Lihua , Fan Huahao , Tong Yigang
Published: April 2022

Phage BUCT86 possesses a genome of 44,542 bp of double-stranded DNA, with a G+C content of 54%. The result of BLASTn analysis showed that the genome sequence of phage BUCT86 shared similarity with that of
Klebsiella
phage CX1, with 82% query coverage and 93.31% identity.
Insights into Adaptive Mechanisms of Extreme Acidophiles Based on Quorum Sensing/Quenching-Related Proteins
Authors: Huang Shanshan , Liu Xueduan , Yang Weiyi , Ma Liyuan , Li Huiying , Liu Rui , Qiu Jingxuan , Li Yiran
Published: April 2022

Understanding cell-cell communication QS is highly relevant for comprehending the regulatory and adaptive mechanisms among acidophiles in extremely acidic ecosystems. Previous studies focused on the existence and functionality of a single QS system in several acidophilic strains.
Retrospective Evaluation of Various Serological Assays and Multiple Parameters for Optimal Diagnosis of Lyme Neuroborreliosis in a Routine Clinical Setting
Authors: van Gorkom Tamara , Voet Willem , van Arkel Gijs H. J. , Heron Michiel , Hoeve-Bakker B. J. A. , Notermans Daan W. , Thijsen Steven F. T. , Kremer Kristin
Published: April 2022

The diagnosis of LNB is established by clinical symptoms, pleocytosis, and proof of intrathecal synthesis of
Borrelia
-specific antibodies. Laboratory diagnosis of LNB is challenging, and validated diagnostic algorithms are lacking.
Genome-Wide Investigation of Pasteurella multocida Identifies the Stringent Response as a Negative Regulator of Hyaluronic Acid Capsule Production
Authors: Smallman Thomas R. , Williams Galain C. , Harper Marina , Boyce John D.
Published: April 2022

The bacterial pathogen
P. multocida
can cause serious disease in production animals, including fowl cholera in poultry, hemorrhagic septicemia in cattle and buffalo, atrophic rhinitis in pigs, and respiratory diseases in a range of livestock.
P. multocida
produces a capsule that is essential for systemic disease, but the complete mechanisms underlying synthesis and regulation of capsule production are not fully elucidated. A whole-genome analysis using TraDIS was undertaken to identify genes essential for growth in rich media and to obtain a comprehensive characterization of capsule production.
EGCG Restricts PRRSV Proliferation by Disturbing Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Yu Peng-Wei , Fu Peng-Fei , Zeng Lei , Qi Yan-Li , Li Xiu-Qing , Wang Qi , Yang Guo-Yu , Li Hua-Wei , Wang Jiang , Chu Bei-Bei , Wang Meng-Di
Published: April 2022

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is an enveloped single-positive-stranded RNA virus that causes acute respiratory distress in piglets and reproductive failure in sows, resulting in huge economic losses to the global swine industry. Several lines of evidence have suggested the crucial roles of lipids in PRRSV proliferation.
Culture on Selective Media and Amplicon-Based Sequencing of 16S rRNA from Spontaneous Brain Abscess—the View from the Diagnostic Laboratory
Authors: Andersen Camilla , Bergholt Bo , Ridderberg Winnie , Nørskov-Lauritsen Niels
Published: April 2022

Polymicrobial brain abscess is a challenge to the clinical microbiology laboratory due to the aggregative nature of the dental and oral microbiota. Because polymicrobial infections may escape detection by conventional culture methods, directed therapy toward a single detected bacterium is problematic.
Differential Performance of the FilmArray Meningitis/Encephalitis Assay To Detect Bacterial and Viral Pathogens in Both Pediatric and Adult Populations
Authors: Schnuriger Aurélie , Vimont Sophie , Godmer Alexandre , Gozlan Joël , Gallah Salah , Macé Muriel , Lalande Valérie , Saloum Kenda , Perrier Marine , Veziris Nicolas , Morand-Joubert Laurence
Published: April 2022

Based on our comparative analysis of performances of the diagnostic assays, we propose an algorithm for the use of both syndromic and specific assays, for an optimal care of the meningitis/encephalitis threat in adult and pediatric patients.
Early Paleozoic subduction fingerprints of the Paleo-Asian ocean in easternmost Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB): Identification of the oldest Alaskan-type complex in the CAOB
Authors: Cui Meng-Meng , Su Ben-Xun , Wang Jing , Wu Yong , Kutyrev Anton
Published: April 2022

The early-stage subduction records of the Paleo-Asian ocean are poorly preserved in the eastern segment of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), which hinders constraints on the evolution of the whole CAOB. This study presents new age data and zircon Hf-O isotopes as well as bulk-rock geochemistry of the Wuxing mafic-ultramafic complex in the Xingkai massif in northeastern China, which has been identified as Alaskan-type complex with aspects of field occurrence, petrological and mineral assemblages, and mineral chemistry in our recently published work. The results indicate that the complex formed mainly between 517 Ma and 510 Ma with a lithological sequence of Sanying clinopyroxenite (517 Ma), then Sanying gabbro (514 Ma), and Erying hornblendite (513 Ma), and finally Erying hornblende clinopyroxenite (510 Ma). The lithological formation sequence is consistent with the intrusive relations between lithological phases and their irrelevant major element compositions and variable trace element patterns of the bulk rocks. The εHf(t) values of zircon in two samples in this study vary from from +4.45 to +7.61 and from −11.8 to +4.42, respectively and tend to be more depleted with age. These features suggest that the Wuxing complex was a product of long-term arc magmatism and experienced significant ancient crustal assimilation in early-stage magmas and negligible contamination in later ones. The presence of 1222 Ma and 706 Ma inherited zircon grains implies existence of Proterozoic basement in the Xingkai massif and its continental arc setting in Cambrian. The Wuxing complex is the oldest Alaskan-type complex found so far in the entire CAOB and is a good witness of the Paleo-Asian oceanic subduction in the easternmost CAOB. The older age of the Wuxing complex compared to the regional Hongqiling intrusion is also compatible with its Alaskan-type nature and platinum-group element mineralization, which are distinct to the Permian-Triassic Ni-Cu sulfide deposit-hosting maficultramafic intrusions in the southern CAOB.
Five million years of high atmospheric CO2 in the aftermath of the Permian-Triassic mass extinction
Authors: Joachimski Michael M. , Müller Johann , Gallagher Timothy M. , Mathes Gregor , Chu Daoliang L. , Mouraviev Fedor , Silantiev Vladimir , Sun Yadong D. , Tong Jinnan N.
Published: April 2022

The end-Permian mass extinction, the largest biological crisis in Earth history, is currently understood in the context of Siberian Traps volcanism introducing large quantities of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere, culminating in the Early Triassic hothouse. In our study, the late Permian and Early Triassic atmospheric CO2 history was reconstructed by applying the paleosol pCO2 barometer. Atmospheric pCO2 shows an approximate 4× increase from mean concentrations of 412–919 ppmv in the late Permian (Changhsingian) to maximum levels between 2181 and 2610 ppmv in the Early Triassic (late Griesbachian). Mean CO2 estimates for the later Early Triassic are between 1261–1936 ppmv (Dienerian) and 1063–1757 ppmv (Spathian). Significantly lower concentrations ranging from 343 to 634 ppmv are reconstructed for the latest Early to Middle Triassic (Anisian). The 5 m.y. episode of elevated pCO2 suggests that negative feedback mechanisms such as silicate weathering were not effective enough to reduce atmospheric pCO2 to precrisis levels and that marine authigenic clay formation (i.e., reverse weathering) may have been an important component of the global carbon cycle keeping atmospheric pCO2 at elevated levels.
Fluid inclusion evidence for extreme overpressure induced by gas generation in sedimentary basins
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Hu Wenxuan , Qiu Ye , Liu Yifeng , Jia Dong , Cao Jian , Liu Xian , Li Yiquan
Published: April 2022

Formation and preservation of extremely high-pressure fluid in sedimentary basins is critical to understanding petroleum accumulation and basin evolution; however, this issue remains poorly understood due to a lack of key evidence. We present fluid inclusion evidence from the Paleozoic black shales in the eastern Sichuan Basin (South China block) that suggest that gas generation can form methane-saturated fluids with pressures significantly exceeding the lithostatic pressure. The fluid inclusion internal pressure is so high (e.g., ~77 MPa) that gas hydrate formed at ambient temperature, aqueous-vapor homogenization could not be achieved under ambient pressure, and the homogenization pressure was beyond the scope of the current equation of state for the NaCl-H2O-CH4 system. We infer that the formation of high-pressure (e.g., >230 MPa), methane-saturated fluids induces hydrofracture under weak compressional tectonic regimes, where the excess lithostatic fluids can be accumulated and sustained. Fluid inclusion records with an abnormally high magnitude of overpressure indicate small differential stress and thus can serve as a microscale indicator for tectonic quiescence.
Late Holocene increase of winter precipitation in mid-continental North America from a seasonally resolved speleothem record
Authors: Batchelor Cameron J. , Marcott Shaun A. , Orland Ian J. , Kitajima Kouki
Published: April 2022

Subannual climate reconstructions of the Holocene are rare despite the ability of such records to provide a better understanding of the underlying factors that drive subannual climate variability. We used specialized confocal laser fluorescent microscope imaging and automated secondary ion mass spectrometry microanalysis to resolve a seasonal oxygen isotope (δ18O) record of a late Holocene–aged (2.7–2.1 ka) speleothem from mid-continental North America. We did this by measuring intra-band δ18O variability (Δ18O) within 117 annual bands over a 600 yr span of the late Holocene. We interpret a change in Δ18O values after 2.4 ± 0.1 ka to reflect an increase in the amount of winter precipitation. Our study produced direct measurements of past seasonality, offers new insights into shifting seasonal precipitation patterns that occurred during the late Holocene in central North America, and adds a new tool for understanding the complex precipitation and temperature histories of this region.
Quantum Turbulence and Planckian Dissipation
Authors: Volovik G. E.
Published: April 2022

The notion of the Planckian dissipation is extended to the system of the Caroli–de Gennes–Matricon discrete energy levels in the vortex core of superconductors and fermionic superfluids. In this extension, the Planck dissipation takes place when the relaxation time τ is comparable with the quantum Heisenberg time $${{t}_{H}} = \hbar {\text{/}}\Delta E$$, where $$\Delta E$$ is the interlevel distance in the vortex core (the minigap). This type of Planck dissipation has two important physical consequences. First, it determines the regime, when the effect of the axial anomaly becomes important. The anomalous spectral flow of the energy levels along the chiral branch of the Caroli–de Gennes–Matricon states becomes important in the super-Planckian region, i.e., when $$\tau < \hbar {\text{/}}\Delta E$$. Second, the Planck dissipation separates the laminar flow of the superfluid liquid at $$\tau < \hbar {\text{/}}\Delta E$$ and the vortex turbulence regime at $$\tau > \hbar {\text{/}}\Delta E$$.
Trends in the use of non-invasive respiratory support for term infants in tertiary neonatal units in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Manley Brett J , Buckmaster Adam G , Travadi Javeed , Owen Louise S , Roberts Calum T , Wright Ian M R , Davis Peter G , Arnolda Gaston
Published: April 2022

Objective

To determine whether the use of non-invasive respiratory support, such as continuous positive airway pressure and nasal high flow, to treat term infants in Australian and New Zealand tertiary neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) has changed over time, and if so, whether there are parallel changes in short-term respiratory morbidities.

Design

Retrospective database review of patient-level data from the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network (ANZNN) from 2010 to 2018. Denominator data on the number of term inborn livebirths in each facility was only available as annual totals.

Patients and setting

Term, inborn infants cared for in NICUs within the ANZNN.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the annual change in hospital-specific rates of non-invasive respiratory support per 1000 inborn livebirths, expressed as a percentage change. Secondary outcomes were the change in rates of mechanical ventilation, pneumothorax requiring drainage, exogenous surfactant treatment and death before hospital discharge.

Results

A total of 14 656 term infants from 21 NICUs were included from 2010 to 2018, of whom 12 719 received non-invasive respiratory support. Non-invasive respiratory support use increased on average by 8.7% per year (95% CI: 7.9% to 9.4% per year); the number of term infants receiving non-invasive respiratory support almost doubled from 980 in 2010 (10.8/1000 livebirths) to 1913 in 2018 (20.8/1000). There was no change over time in rate of mechanical ventilation or death. The rate of pneumothorax requiring drainage increased over time, as did surfactant treatment.

Conclusions

Non-invasive respiratory support use to treat term infants cared for in NICUs within the ANZNN is increasing over time. Clinicians should be diligent in selecting infants most likely to benefit from treatment with non-invasive respiratory support in this relatively low-risk population of term newborn infants. Analysis of patient-level data by individual NICUs is recommended to control for potential confounding due to changes in population over time.
Basilar artery stroke in Crohn’s disease treated with endovascular thromboembolectomy
Authors: Deshpande Girish G , Riffle Riana M , Meagher Sean
Published: April 2022

We describe a girl in middle childhood with newly diagnosed Crohn’s disease, who presented with seizures and altered mental status. MRI showed an abnormal vascular signal at the basilar artery, but no evidence of acute ischaemia. Her weakness worsened over the next 8 hours to dense quadriplegia. CT angiography of the brain, approximately 24 hours after the initial onset of symptoms, identified an acute basilar artery occlusion with infarction. She received endovascular thromboembolectomy emergently. She showed significant improvement over 8-month period from quadriplegia to walking unassisted. This case highlights the importance of recognising stroke in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and the need for emergent radiological assessment and potential intervention.
Effectiveness of different types and levels of social distancing measures: a scoping review of global evidence from earlier stage of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sun Kai Sing , Lau Terence See Man , Yeoh Eng Kiong , Chung Vincent Chi Ho , Leung Yin Shan , Yam Carrie Ho Kwan , Hung Chi Tim
Published: April 2022

Objective

Social distancing is one of the main non-pharmaceutical interventions used in the control of the COVID-19 pandemic. This scoping review aims to synthesise research findings on the effectiveness of different types and levels of social distancing measures in the earlier stage of COVID-19 pandemic without the confounding effect of mass vaccination.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health and four other databases were searched for eligible studies on social distancing for COVID-19 published from inception of the databases to 30 September 2020.

Study selection and data extraction

Effectiveness studies on social distancing between individuals, school closures, workplace/business closures, public transport restrictions and partial/full lockdown were included. Non-English articles, studies in healthcare settings or not based on empirical data were excluded.

Results

After screening 1638 abstracts and 8 additional articles from other sources, 41 studies were included for synthesis of findings. The review found that the outcomes of social distancing measures were mainly indicated by changes inRt, incidence and mortality, along with indirect indicators such as daily contact frequency and travel distance. There was adequate empirical evidence for the effect of social distancing at the individual level, and for partial or full lockdown at the community level. However, at the level of social settings, the evidence was moderate for school closure, and was limited for workplace/business closures as single targeted interventions. There was no evidence for a separate effect of public transport restriction.

Conclusions

In the community setting, there was stronger evidence for the combined effect of different social distancing interventions than for a single intervention. As fatigue of preventive behaviours is an issue in public health agenda, future studies should analyse the risks in specific settings such as eateries and entertainment to implement and evaluate measures which are proportionate to the risk.
Prevalence, symptom burden and under-diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in Polish lung cancer screening population: a cohort observational study
Authors: Undrunas Aleksandra , Kasprzyk Piotr , Rajca Aleksandra , Kuziemski Krzysztof , Rzyman Witold , Zdrojewski Tomasz
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Lung cancer screening using low-dose CT may be not effective without considering the presence of comorbidities related to chronic smoking. The aim of the study was to establish the prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in group of phighlight the potential benefits atients participating in the largest Polish lung cancer screening programme MOLTEST-BIS and attempt to confirm the necessity of combined lung cancer and COPD screening.

Design

Cohort, prospective study.

Setting

Medical University of Gdańsk, Poland

Participants

The study included 754 participants in lung cancer screening trial from the Pomeranian region, aged 50–70 years old, current and former smokers with a smoking history ≥30 pack-years.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Questionnaire, physical examination, anthropometric measurements, spirometry test before and after inhaled bronchodilator (400 µg of salbutamol)

Results

Obstructive disorders were diagnosed in 186 cases (103 male and 83 female). In the case of 144 participants (19.73%), COPD was diagnosed. Only 13.3% of participants with COPD were known about the disease earlier. According to classification of airflow limitation 55.6% of diagnosed COPD were in Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 1 (mild), 38.9% in GOLD 2 (moderate), 4.9% in GOLD 3 (severe) and 0.7% in GOLD 4 (very severe) stage. Women with recognition of COPD were younger than men (63.7 vs 66.3 age) and they smoked less cigarettes (41.1 vs 51.9 pack-years).

Conclusions

Prevalence of COPD in Polish lung cancer screening cohort is significant. The COPD in this group is remarkably under-diagnosed. Most diagnosed COPD cases were in the initial stage of advancement. This early detection of airflow limitation highlights the potential benefits arising from combined oncological-pulmonary screening.

NKBBN
Study protocol for a pilot prospective, observational study investigating the condition suggestion and urgency advice accuracy of a symptom assessment app in sub-Saharan Africa: the AFYA-‘Health’ Study
Authors: Millen Elizabeth , Salim Nahya , Azadzoy Hila , Bane Mustafa Miraji , O'Donnell Lisa , Schmude Marcel , Bode Philipp , Tuerk Ewelina , Vaidya Ria , Gilbert Stephen Henry
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Due to a global shortage of healthcare workers, there is a lack of basic healthcare for 4 billion people worldwide, particularly affecting low-income and middle-income countries. The utilisation of AI-based healthcare tools such as symptom assessment applications (SAAs) has the potential to reduce the burden on healthcare systems. The purpose of the AFYA Study (AI-based Assessment oF health sYmptoms in TAnzania) is to evaluate the accuracy of the condition suggestions and urgency advice provided by a user on a Swahili language Ada SAA.

Methods and analysis

This study is designed as an observational prospective clinical study. The setting is a waiting room of a Tanzanian district hospital. It will include patients entering the outpatient clinic with various conditions and age groups, including children and adolescents. Patients will be asked to use the SAA before proceeding to usual care. After usual care, they will have a consultation with a study-provided physician. Patients and healthcare practitioners will be blinded to the SAA’s results. An expert panel will compare the Ada SAA’s condition suggestions and urgency advice to usual care and study provided differential diagnoses and triage. The primary outcome measures are the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Ada SAA evaluated against the gold standard differential diagnoses.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was received by the ethics committee (EC) of Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences with an approval number MUHAS-REC-09-2019-044 and the National Institute for Medical Research, NIMR/HQ/R.8c/Vol. I/922. All amendments to the protocol are reported and adapted on the basis of the requirements of the EC. The results from this study will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals, local and international stakeholders, and will be communicated in editorials/articles by Ada Health.

Trial registration number

NCT04958577.
Implementing a choice of pulmonary rehabilitation models in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (HomeBase2 trial): protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Holland Anne E , Jones Arwel W , Mahal Ajay , Lannin Natasha A , Cox Narelle , Hepworth Graham , O'Halloran Paul , McDonald Christine F
Published: April 2022

Introduction

There is compelling evidence that either centre-based or home-based pulmonary rehabilitation improves clinical outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There are known health service and personal barriers which prevent potentially eligible patients from accessing the benefits of pulmonary rehabilitation. The aim of this hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial is to examine the effects of offering patients a choice of pulmonary rehabilitation locations (home or centre) compared with offering only the traditional centre-based model.

Method and analysis

This is a two-arm cluster randomised, controlled, assessor-blinded trial of 14 centre-based pulmonary rehabilitation services allocated to intervention (offering choice of home-based or centre-based pulmonary rehabilitation) or control (continuing to offer centre-based pulmonary rehabilitation only), stratified by centre-based programme setting (hospital vs non-hospital). 490 participants with COPD will be recruited. Centre-based pulmonary rehabilitation will be delivered according to best practice guidelines including supervised exercise training for 8 weeks. At intervention sites, the home-based pulmonary rehabilitation will be delivered according to an established 8-week model, comprising of one home visit, unsupervised exercise training and telephone calls that build motivation for exercise participation and facilitate self-management. The primary outcome is all-cause, unplanned hospitalisations in the 12 months following rehabilitation. Secondary outcomes include programme completion rates and measurements of 6-minute walk distance, chronic respiratory questionnaire, EQ-5D-5L, dyspnoea-12, physical activity and sedentary time at the end of rehabilitation and 12 months following rehabilitation.

Direct healthcare costs, indirect costs and changes in EQ-5D-5L will be used to evaluate cost-effectiveness. A process evaluation will be undertaken to understand how the choice model is implemented and explore sustainability beyond the clinical trial.

Ethics and dissemination

Alfred Hospital Ethics Committee has approved this protocol. The trial findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals, submitted for presentation at conferences and disseminated to patients across Australia with support from national lung charities and societies.

Trial registration number

NCT04217330.