bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging the Gap: Understanding Patient and Clinician Preferences When Designing Preoperative Education Programs
Authors: Furtado Rochelle , MacDermid Joy C. , Ziebart Christina , Bryant Dianne , Faber Kenneth J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Traditionally, health information has been created from the perspective of the providers with minimum patient consultation, hindering engagement and adherence. The rate of shoulder replacements has increased over the past decade, is associated with shorter hospital stays, and patients are relying on education to be able to participate in shared decision‐making. Therefore, to ensure creation of accessible education programs for shoulder replacement procedures, we explored patient and clinician preferences regarding content and device choices for a preoperative shoulder replacement education program.

Methods

This study used an interpretive descriptive qualitative approach to understand patient and clinician preferences. We included a subset of patient and healthcare provider perspectives, from those who had previously completed our quantitative survey. Interviews were conducted in English by one researcher. Analysis was conducted through a descriptive thematic analysis with open coding.

Results

A total of 10 patients and 9 healthcare providers were interviewed. Findings were categorized into four main themes described the process of creating patient education material (1) methods of accessing information, (2) deciding on educational content, (3) deciding on device use, and the last theme of factors affecting engagement can be further divided as (4‐1) promotors of engagement and (4‐2) barriers of engagement.

Conclusions

A multimodal program of a website with videos and a written booklet, that covers basic information regarding the surgery, timelines for recovery, sling use, use of therapeutic devices/aids post‐surgery, patient expectations to improve surgery satisfaction, postoperative restrictions, pain management, rehabilitation and home supports is desired by both patients and clinicians.
Melanisation in Salmonid Skeletal Muscle: A Review
Authors: Bjørgen Håvard , Rimstad Espen , Koppang Erling Olaf
Published: December 2024

Melanisation can occur in the musculature of fish. A well‐known form is the melanised focal changes, or ‘black spots’, in the fillet of farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The aetiology of black spots has not been fully determined, though recent research has emphasised the role of fat necrosis in their development. The initial stages of the changes are observed as focal haemorrhages or ‘red spots’, and these can progress into melanised focal changes (MFCs). The focal haemorrhages are acute changes characterised by necrotic myocytes and adipocytes and diffuse haemorrhage in the tissue. These changes evolve into a chronic inflammation dominated by fibrosis, encapsulated lipid droplets or pseudocysts, presence of epithelioid cells, granulomas of varying character, giant cells and melano‐macrophages, whose presence accounts for the discolouration. The inflammation ranges from mild to severe, and the severity of the lesion has been associated with localised piscine orthoreovirus 1 (PRV 1) replication in macrophages and melano‐macrophages within granulomas. The possibility of a genetic impact on the condition has not been supported by available data. The lipid composition and the antioxidative properties of the feed have been shown to affect the development of the changes. Physiological and environmental factors are also believed to influence the prevalence and severity of the condition. Here, we review the current state of knowledge concerning melanisation in fish skeletal musculature, with a special emphasis on the MFCs in Atlantic salmon.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Lubiprostone and Osmotic Laxatives in Chronic Idiopathic Constipation: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yang Luoyao , Zong Ye , Meng Fandong , Wu Yongdong , Zhang Shutian
Published: December 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of lubiprostone (Lub) with osmotic laxatives in the treatment of chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC).

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library in May 2024. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were manually searched by two independent reviewers. The efficacy was assessed by the proportion of patients with spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) within 24 h after the first administration of the medication and SBMs in Weeks 1 and 4. Safety was evaluated based on adverse events including nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal distension. Optimal probability values and the surface under the cumulative ranking area (SUCRA) were also calculated for all interventions. Higher SUCRA values indicate better efficacy and safety of the intervention.

Results

Following a thorough search and screening process, 25 articles were included. Among the selected trials, 8 compared Lub to placebo, 10 compared polyethylene glycol (PEG) to placebo, 4 compared lactulose (Lac) to placebo, and 3 compared PEG to Lac. The meta‐analysis results indicated that Lub and osmotic laxatives were significantly more effective than placebo. According to the SUCRA results, the highest rank probabilities were for Lub in increasing the SBMs and reducing abdominal distension.

Conclusion

Lubiprostone is more effective than PEG and Lactulose for treating CIC, with comparable safety profiles. However, this conclusion requires further validation through large‐scale, high‐quality studies.
Factors affecting turnover intention of nurses in Japanese nursing homes for older adults—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Baba Kaoru , Doi Mana , Arimoto Azusa , Kaneda Akiko , Kanoya Yuka
Published: December 2024

Aim

This study aimed to clarify factors that affect turnover intention of nurses in Japanese nursing homes (NHs).

Methods

Cross‐sectional nationwide self‐administered anonymous questionnaire survey was conducted among 2000 nurses and 1000 directors from 1000 NHs. Data were collected between December 2019 and January 2020. The questionnaire contained NH nurses' turnover intention，organizational factors such as work conditions, and so on; individual factors such as self‐evaluation of nursing practice and so on. Responses were obtained from 267 nurses and 163 directors (response rates: 13.4% and 16.3%, respectively). This analysis included 196 responses from both nurses and directors from NHs. Univariate analysis and logistic regression analyses were performed to examine factors affecting nurses' turnover intentions.

Results

Regarding the NH nurses' turnover intention, 49.5% responded “no intention to leave,” 50.5% responded “intention to leave.” Of these “intention to leave,” 41.4% responded “I wanted to work in a medical facility.” A stronger burden of on‐call shift (OR [odds ratio] = 1.54, 95% CI [confidence interval]: 1.10–2.16) and a lower affective organizational commitment (OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.62–0.80) indicated a higher turnover intention of NH nurses.

Conclusions

Retention of NH nurses may be increased by reducing the burden of on‐call shifts and enhancing affective organizational commitment.
‘I still remember’: Increased categoric autobiographical memories in behavioural variant of frontotemporal dementia
Authors: El Haj Mohamad , Kapogiannis Dimitrios , Boutoleau‐Bretonnière Claire
Published: December 2024

Autobiographical memory is diminished in patients with behavioural variant of frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), and research has focused on the hampered ability of patients to retrieve specific memories. In this study, we implemented a methodology seeking to provide a qualitative analysis of autobiographical specificity. We invited patients with bvFTD and control participants to retrieve autobiographical memories and we distinguished between specific, categoric, extended and semantic autobiographical retrieval. The analysis demonstrated that patients with bvFTD produced more categoric than specific, extended or semantic memories. Thus, despite the decreased ability to retrieve specific memories, an increased ability to produce categoric memories can be observed in patients with bvFTD. These results support a positive view according to which autobiographical retrieval in bvFTD is not solely characterized by over‐generality, but also by increased retrieval of categoric memories. Categoric memories, albeit lacking uniqueness, nevertheless, involve retrieval of similar or related events upon which patients may draw knowledge related to their self‐image and life story.
Promoting adolescents' pro‐environmental behavior: A motive‐alignment approach
Authors: van de Wetering Judith , Grapsas Stathis , Poorthuis Astrid , Thomaes Sander
Published: December 2024

Most adolescents are concerned about climate change. What helps them to act on their concerns? This preregistered randomized experiment tested whether adolescents' pro‐environmental behavior can be promoted by framing the behavior as compatible with their autonomy motive. Dutch adolescents (N = 319, ages 12–17, 57.7% girls, predominantly indicating “Dutch” or “bicultural” identities) viewed a campaign‐style video that explained the causes of climate change (all conditions), and additionally framed pro‐environmental behavior as a personal choice (volition‐alignment), opportunity to rebel (rebellion‐alignment), or mandatory (misalignment). Rebellion‐alignment increased pro‐environmental behavior intentions and petitioning behavior; misalignment decreased pro‐environmental donating behavior. Effect sizes were small to medium. These findings provide proof of concept that motive alignment can be effective in promoting adolescents' pro‐environmental engagement.
Changes in Serum Rheumatoid Factor Following Eradication of Hepatitis C Virus Infection With Interferon or Direct Antiviral Therapy
Authors: Tsai Ying‐Nan , Lo Jamie Chieh , Tseng Cheng‐Hao , Hsieh Song‐Chou , Chiu Wen‐Chin , Tai Chi‐Ming , Chang Chi‐Yang , Lee Fu‐Jen , Nguyen Mindie H. , Lin Jaw‐Town , Hsu Yao‐Chun
Published: December 2024

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with a myriad of extrahepatic manifestations (EHM), as well as the production of autoantibodies, including rheumatoid factor (RF). This study aims to elucidate whether serum levels of RF change before and after HCV eradication, and whether these changes differ according to the type of therapy used. This is a retrospective cohort study of adults with chronic HCV infection treated with interferon‐free or interferon‐based regimens. All patients had HCV viremia at baseline and documented sustained virological response (SVR) 12 or 24 weeks after completing treatment. We measured the serum levels of RF at baseline and at SVR‐12 or −24 to analyse the changes after eradication. This study enrolled 297 patients (median age, 59 years; female, 48.5%; cirrhosis, 16.8%). Among them, 78 (26.3%) were RF‐positive by qualitative serology at baseline. This number decreased to 49 (16.5%) at SVR‐12 or −24 (p < 0.001). Quantitatively, the median RF also decreased from 1.6 IU/mL (interquartile range [IQR], undetectable—15.8) to undetectable (IQR, undetectable—6.6 IU/mL) (p < 0.001). Significant reductions were observed in both groups. The proportion with RF seropositivity decreased from 24.3% to 15.4% (p = 0.001) in patients treated with interferon‐free agents (n = 214) and from 31.3% to 19.3% (p = 0.006) in patients treated with interferon‐based regimens (n = 83), without significant difference between two groups (p = 0.40). Serum RF decreased after HCV eradication, regardless of treatment regimen. Our findings suggest that HCV eradication may attenuate HCV‐related autoimmunity.
Oil Price Shocks and Macroeconomic Fluctuations: A GVAR Approach
Authors: Attílio Luccas Assis , Mollick André Varella
Published: December 2024

We investigate the effects of oil price shocks on industrial and emerging market economies. We use a global vector autoregressive (GVAR) model with 19 economies from 1999M1 to 2022M3. Our sample evaluates output responses of each country to the same global shock, defined in several ways. While we find that domestic prices and interest rates in industrial economies respond to the WTI real oil price shock, the generalized impulse response functions (GIRF) tend to be not statistically significant in emerging economies. Stock markets increase in the first months for the oil producers but have negative values in the long‐run. The oil price shock causes a generalized fall in industrial production and loses importance over time. We reinforce our results by identifying the oil shock using the structural GIRF (SGIRF) following a causal ordering from oil to real output. When we decompose WTI into either supply or demand shocks, industrial production declines in the short‐run due to supply shocks but increases in response to oil demand shocks. Our results are very robust, especially in industrial economies when allowing for time‐varying bilateral trade. Underscoring the importance of identifying oil price shocks, the oil price shock pushes inflation up, prompting the central bank's response in policy rates.
ClBeclin1 Positively Regulates Citrus Defence Against Citrus Yellow Vein Clearing Virus Through Mediating Autophagy‐Dependent Degradation of ClAPX1
Authors: Wang Jiajun , Yu Ling , Zhao Jinfa , Fu Shimin , Mei Yalin , Lou Binghai , Zhou Yan
Published: December 2024

Autophagy, one of the most widespread and highly conserved protein degradation systems in eukaryotic cells, plays an important role in plant growth, development and stress response. Beclin 1 is a core component of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) autophagy complex and positively regulates plant immunity against viruses. The upregulation of Eureka lemon ClBeclin1 was observed in response to citrus yellow vein clearing virus (CYVCV) infection. However, the function of ClBeclin1 and the underlying mechanism during CYVCV colonisation remain unclear. Here, the resistance evaluation of the overexpression and silencing of ClBeclin1 in Eureka lemon hairy roots revealed it as a positive regulator of citrus immunity against CYVCV. Transcriptomic profiling and metabolic analyses along with genetic evidence implied that the overexpression of ClBeclin1 positively triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐ and jasmonic acid (JA)‐mediated immunity in citrus. The accumulation of ROS and JA contents was attributed to the autophagic degradation of the ROS scavenger ClAPX1 via ClBeclin1 overexpression. Exogenous application of either H2O2 or JA significantly reduced CYVCV colonisation and vein‐clearing symptoms on the host. Collectively, our findings indicate that ClBeclin1 activation contributes to citrus immunity against CYVCV through triggering ROS‐ and JA‐mediated defence responses, and the accumulation of ROS and JA resulted from the autophagic degradation of ClAPX1 by ClBeclin1.
Emerging mechanisms of organ crosstalk: The role of oxylipins
Authors: Fisk Helena Lucy , Shaikh Saame Raza
Published: December 2024

There is growing interest in the role of oxylipins in the pathophysiology of several diseases. This is accompanied by a limited but evolving evidence base describing augmented oxylipin concentrations in a range of complications including cardiovascular disease, obesity, liver disease and neurological disorders. Despite this, literature describing oxylipin profiles in blood and multiple organs is inconsistent and the mechanisms by which these profiles are altered, and the relationships between localised tissue and circulating oxylipins are poorly understood. Inflammation and immune response associated with disease requires communication across organs and physiological systems. For example, inflammation and comorbidities associated with obesity extend beyond the adipose tissue and affect the vascular, hepatobiliary and digestive systems amongst others. Communication between organs and physiological systems is implicated in the progression of disease as well as the maintenance of homeostasis. There is emerging evidence for the role of oxylipins as a mechanism of communication in organ crosstalk but the role of these in orchestrating multiple organ and system responses is poorly understood. Herein, we review evidence to support and describe the role of oxylipins in organ crosstalk via the cardiosplenic and gut‐link axis. In addition, we review emerging mechanisms of oxylipin regulation, the gut microbiome and modification using nutritional intervention. Finally, we describe future perspectives for addressing challenges in measurement and interpretation of oxylipin research with focus on the host genome as a modifier of oxylipin profiles and response to dietary lipid intervention.
Effectiveness of Gamma Rays in Attenuation of Toxoplasma gondii Pathogenicity and Eliciting Immune Response in Mice
Authors: El Shanawany Eman E. , Younis Salwa Sami , Nemr Waleed A. , Hassan Soad E. , Zalat Rabab S. , Desouky Hassan M. , Shaapan Raafat M. , Abdel‐Rahman Eman H.
Published: December 2024

Gamma irradiation was applied to the tachyzoites Toxoplasma gondii virulent strain at doses of 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.5 and 2 KGy. Radiation's effects were assessed both in vivo and in vitro. In vitro, the modest dosage of radiation, 0.25 KGy, showed 97% tachyzoites viability with only slight surface abnormalities and a normal crescent form using a scanning electron microscope. Protein analysis by SDS‐PAGE demonstrated that while higher doses of radiation altered the protein banding profile, the 0.25 KGy irradiated tachyzoites showed no significant changes compared to the control (non‐irradiated tachyzoites). While, tachyzoites exposed to the higher dose of irradiation (1, 1.5 and 2 KGy) resulted in the appearance of a new protein band as the molecular weights detected were 60, 30 and 10 kDa for antigens prepared from tachyzoites exposed to 1 kDa, and 1.5 and 60, 28 kDa for antigen prepared from tachyzoites exposed to 2 KGy. The immunogenicity of the tachyzoites exposed to radiation did not reveal any significant change in comparison with no irradiated tachyzoites when tested by ELISA using sheep‐infected sera. A study conducted in vivo evaluated the infectivity of irradiation tachyzoites by inoculating mice with a 2500 tachyzoites virulent strain/mouse. There are six groups of mice, each with twelve animals, for the six doses of radiation. Mice harbouring irradiation tachyzoites remained viable until 40 days post‐inoculation. On the other hand, the mice of control group had a mean survival time of 6.5 ± 0.22 days, and none of them survived past 7 dpi. Comparing the attenuated T. gondii tachyzoites at 0.25 KGy to the control group and other groups injected with irradiated tachyzoites, the results showed statistically significant increases in total IgG. Compared to other irradiation groups, the group injected with 0.25 KGy irradiated tachyzoites had a considerably higher level of IFN γ and IL17 (p < 0.000001). The groups which received 0.25 and 0.5 KGy irradiated tachyzoites as an injection showed no discernible variation in their higher levels of IL12. The findings imply that gamma irradiation was successful in reducing the pathogenicity of the T. gondii virulent strain while preserving the potential of the irradiated tachyzoites to induce an immunological reaction. An investigation into this immune response's immunoprotective potential is advised.
Innovative multi‐scale approach to study the phenotypic variation of seedling leaves in four weedy Amaranthus species
Authors: Scarpin D. , Este G. , D'Este F. , Boscutti F. , Milani A. , Panozzo S. , Varotto S. , Vuerich M. , Petrussa E. , Braidot E.
Published: December 2024

Plant phenotyping on morpho‐anatomical traits through image analysis, from microscope images to large‐scale acquisitions through remote sensing, represents a low‐invasive tool providing insight into physiological and structural trait variation, as well as plant–environment interactions. High phenotype diversity in the genus Amaranthus includes annual weed species with high invasiveness and impact on important summer crops, and nutritive grain or vegetable crops. Identification of morpho‐anatomical leaf characters at very young stages across weedy amaranths could be useful for better understanding their performance in agroecosystems.

We used an innovative multi‐scale approach with phenotype analyses of about 20 single‐leaf morphometric traits of four Amaranthus species through processing confocal microscopy and camera acquisitions.

The results highlight that determination of leaf traits at different investigation levels highlight species‐specific traits at a juvenile stage, which are crucial for plant development, competition and establishment. Specifically, leaf circularity and hairiness Aspect Ratio better discriminated A. tuberculatus from other species. Also, leaf DW, hairiness area and perimeter variables allowed identification of dioecious amaranth species as distinct from monoecious species.

The methodology used here provides a promising, reliable and low‐impact approach for the functional characterization of phylogenetically related species and for statistical quantification of traits involved in taxonomy and biodiversity studies.
Political Attitudes and Sexual Identity in Germany: Examining the Sexuality Gap
Authors: Wurthmann L. Constantin
Published: December 2024

The association between LGB+ identity and political attitudes in Europe remains relatively underexplored, despite the growing visibility of LGB+ individuals in electoral politics. Existing research tends to focus on a limited range of political attitudes and seldom uses indicators that reflect LGB+ self‐identification. This research note presents new evidence based on original survey data (N = 1,599) from Germany in 2021, which directly measures sexual identity and its association with political attitudes. It shows that self‐identifying as LGB+ (9.63 percent; N = 154) is associated with left‐liberal political attitudes, confirming previous findings from studies in the US and Western Europe. However, in contrast to those studies, LGB+ individuals in Germany do not exhibit more liberal views on migration or greater solidarity with EU member states in financial need. These findings suggest that LGB+ individuals are not always more liberal than heterosexuals.
Studying ER‐membrane contact sites in plants using the optogenetic approach: Taking the LiMETER as an example
Authors: Li Yifan , Pain Charlotte , Cui Xuan , Li Menghan , Zhang Tong , Li Jiejie , Kriechbaumer Verena , Wang Pengwei
Published: December 2024

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) links to multiple organelles through membrane contact sites (MCS), which play critical roles in signal transduction, cell homeostasis and stress response. However, studying the behaviour and functions of MCS in plants is still challenging, partially due to the lack of site‐specific markers. Here, we used an optogenetic reporter, LiMETER (Light‐inducible Membrane‐Tethered cortical ER), to study the structure and dynamics of ER‐PM contact sites (EPCS) in plants. Upon blue light activation, LiMETER is recruited to the EPCS rapidly, while this process is reversible when blue light is turned off. Compared with other EPCS reporters, LiMETER specifically and reversibly labels the contact sites, causing little side‐effects on the ER structure and plant development. With its help, we re‐examined the formation of ER‐PM connections induced by cell‐intrinsic factors or extracellular stimuli. We found that EPCSs are preferably localised at ER tubules and the edge of ER cisternae, and their number increased significantly under abiotic stress conditions. The abundance of ER and PM interaction is also developmental dependent, suggesting a direct link between ER‐PM interaction, ER function and cell homeostasis. Taken together, we showed that LiMETER is an improved marker for functional and microscopical studies of ER‐PM interaction, demonstrating the effectiveness of optogenetic tools in future research.
A novel transcription factor CsSNACA2 plays a pivotal role within nitrogen assimilation in tea plants
Authors: Jiang Deyuan , Xu Li , Wen Weiwei
Published: December 2024

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is a globally renowned economic crop, with organs such as leaves and buds utilized for consumption. As a perennial foliage crop, tea plants have high‐nitrogen consumption and demand but exhibit relatively low nitrogen use efficiency. Exploring the genetic factors involved in nitrogen assimilation in tea plants could lead to improvements in both tea yield and quality. Here, we first conducted transcriptome sequencing on two tissues (roots and young leaves) under two different nitrate levels (0.2 and 2.5 mm KNO3) and at six time points (0, 15, and 45 min; 2 and 6 h and 2 days). Differential gene expression patterns were observed for several genes that exhibited altered expression at 2 h. Clustering and enrichment analyses, along with co‐expression network construction, provided evidence for the crucial involvement of CsSNACA2 in nitrogen assimilation. CsSNACA2 overexpression elicited pronounced phenotypic changes in nitrogen‐deficient plants. Furthermore, CsSNACA2 suppressed the expression of CsNR (encoding nitrate reductase) and CsCLCa (encoding a /H+ exchanger). Moreover, CsSNACA2 served as a downstream target of CsSPL6.1. In addition, we characterized Csi‐miR156e and Csi‐miR156k, which directly cleave CsSPL6.1. This study identified a transcription factor module participating in nitrogen assimilation in tea plants, providing a genetic foundation for future innovations in tea cultivar improvement. These results broaden our understanding of the genetic mechanisms governing nitrogen assimilation in dicotyledonous plants.
Leaf angle regulation toward a maize smart canopy
Authors: Jiang Qinyue , Wang Yijun
Published: December 2024

Dense planting of single‐cross hybrids contributes to maize yield increase over the past decades. Leaf angle, an important agronomic trait relevant to planting density, plays a fundamental role in light penetration into the canopy and photosynthetic efficiency. Leaf angle is a key parameter of plant architecture in the concept of smart canopy. Maize smart‐canopy‐like plant architecture exhibits optimal leaf angle, resulting in erect upper leaves and intermediate or horizontal lower leaves. Leaf angle regulation is a promising way forward in the breeding of varieties with canopy ideotypes. In this review, we first describe the relationship between maize polarity axes and leaf angle formation. Then, we revisit advances in the mutant and quantitative genetics research of maize leaf angle, highlighting the biological implications of transcription factors for maize leaf angle regulation. We underscore that KNOX family is essential for the blade–sheath boundary establishment and brassinosteroid pathway components as well as regulator ZmRAVL1 serve as key hubs of the transcriptional hierarchy governing maize leaf angle formation. We also suggest potential avenues for manipulating maize leaf angles across canopy layers.
Seed germination and seedling emergence responding to different osmotic potentials and burial depths of 242 Leptochloa chinensis populations
Authors: Chen Guoqi , An Kai , Liu Yiyang , Chen Ling , Lin Yuting , Wei Haiyan
Published: December 2024

Leptochloa chinensis is a troublesome rice weed in many countries, and knowledge of its seed germination ecology varied in different reports. To reveal the range and general characteristics of L. chinensis seed germination under different drought stresses, and seedling emergence under different burial depths, we conducted a serial of germination experiments with 242 L. chinensis populations collected along ranges spanning 4° latitudes and 4° longitudes from rice fields in eastern China. We found that 1000‐seed weight ranged from 0.056 to 0.129 g, with an average of 0.088 g; the OR50 (the osmotic potentials at which the germination percentage reaches 50%) was −0.47 to −0.07 MPa, with an average of −0.28 MPa; and BR50 (the burial depth at which the emergence percentage reaches 50%) ranged from 0.07 to 0.26 cm, with an average of 0.18 cm. At −0.5 MPa, the mean germination percentage of 242 populations was 4.1%. Seed germination percentages under 0.5 and 1.5 cm quartz sand layer were both >75%, while no seedling emerged up to the surface of quartz sand. Populations collected from rice fields in northern regions leaned to be higher in 1000‐seed weights, and OR50 values. Moreover, populations collected from transplanting rice fields slightly and significantly leaned to be more adapted to drought stresses and soil burial depths. The ability to quickly germinate, together with seed germination sensitive to drought stress and seedling emergence sensitive to soil burial, facilitate L. chinensis to avoid suicide seed germination, occupy niches under suitable environments and escape chemical control practices on rice fields.
Molecular Evidence of Leptospira spp. Infection Among Household Dogs From 15 Municipalities of the Department of Caldas, Colombia
Authors: Silva‐Ramos Carlos Ramiro , Lemaitre G Paloma , Mejorano‐Fonseca Julián A. , Matiz‐González J. Manuel , Aricapa‐Giraldo Hector J. , Agudelo Juan C. , Pérez Cárdenas Jorge E. , Hidalgo Marylin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Leptospira spp. is a bacterial genus which includes pathogenic species that causes leptospirosis. Several animal species can harbour, shed and disseminate the bacteria through their urine. Although the circulation of Leptospira among homeless dogs may be common, the presence of Leptospira among household dogs is more important since they can act as important sources of infection for their owners due to the closer contact with humans.

Aim

The aim of the present study was to detect the presence of Leptospira spp. among household dogs from 15 municipalities of the Caldas department.

Methods

Between November 2015 and January 2017, an active household dog sampling was performed in 15 municipalities of Caldas department. Dog blood samples were tested through conventional PCR targeting a fragment of the Leptospira rrs and LipL32 genes. All obtained amplicons were purified and bi‐directionally sequenced. Obtained sequences were assembled and edited for subsequent phylogenetic analysis.

Results

A total of 196 dogs were sampled from 15 municipalities of Caldas department, of which 180 were screened for Leptospira spp. Ten (5.6%) dog blood samples from seven municipalities were successfully amplified for the Leptospira rrs gene. Two Leptospira rrs good‐quality sequences were obtained which had a closer relationship with Leptospira interrogans and Leptospira santarosai.

Conclusion

We confirm the presence of Leptospira spp. closely related with L. interrogans and L. santarosai among household dogs from seven municipalities of Caldas department. These results highlight the need to improve the care of household dogs in Caldas department since they could eventually become important sources of infection of leptospirosis.
Convergence and nonconvergence in a nonlocal gradient flow
Authors: Park Sangmin , Pego Robert L.
Published: December 2024

We study the asymptotic convergence as of solutions of , a nonlocal differential equation that is formally a gradient flow in a constant‐mass subspace of arising from simplified models of phase transitions. In case the solution takes finitely many values, we provide a new proof of stabilization that uses a Łojasiewicz‐type gradient inequality near a degenerate curve of equilibria. Solutions with infinitely many values in general need not converge to equilibrium, however, which we demonstrate by providing counterexamples for piecewise linear and cubic functions . Curiously, the exponential rate of convergence in the finite‐value case can jump from order to arbitrarily small values upon perturbation of parameters.
Vanishing of Brauer classes on K3 surfaces under reduction
Authors: Maulik Davesh , Tayou Salim
Published: December 2024

Given a Brauer class on a K3 surface defined over a number field, we prove that there exists infinitely many reductions where the Brauer class vanishes, under certain technical hypotheses, answering a question of Frei–Hassett–Várilly‐Alvarado.
Graphene-based capacitive monolithic microphone with optimized air gap thickness and damping
Authors: Jiang Yun , Wood Graham S. , Newton Michael J. , Lomax Peter , Cheung Rebecca
Published: December 2024

A graphene-based capacitive monolithic microphone with optimized air gap thickness and damping has been designed, fabricated, and characterized. A bilayer poly(methylmethacrylate)/graphene membrane has been suspended as the movable plate. The membrane has been actuated electrostatically, electrothermally, and acoustically. The motion of the membrane on top of a 2-μm air gap and only one vent hole has been observed and studied, demonstrating the possibility to minimize both the air gap thickness and number of vent holes. During the fabrication process, an optimized combined wet and dry etching method to etch silicon dioxide has been applied to prevent the aluminum electrodes from being attacked. The effect of actuation voltage on displacement amplitude and resonant frequency has been studied. The microphone's mechanical and electrical sensitivity to sound has been characterized.
Polyvinylidene fluoride transducer shape optimization for the characterization of anisotropic materials
Authors: Cowes Diego A. , Mieza Juan I. , Gómez Martín P.
Published: December 2024

In the context of ultrasonic determination of mechanical properties, it is common to use oblique incident waves to characterize fluid-immersed anisotropic samples. The lateral displacement of the ultrasonic field owing to leaky guided wave phenomena poses a challenge for data inversion because beam spreading is rarely well represented by plane wave models. In this study, a finite beam model based on the angular spectrum method was developed to estimate the influence of the transducer shape and position on the transmitted signals. Additionally, anisotropic solids were considered so that the beam skewing effect was contemplated. A small-emitter large-receiver configuration was chosen, and the ideal shape and position of the receiving transducer were obtained through a meta-heuristic optimization approach with the goal of achieving a measurement system that sufficiently resembles plane wave propagation. A polyvinylidene fluoride receiver was fabricated based on the findings and tested in three cases: a single-crystal silicon wafer, a lightly anisotropic stainless-steel plate, and a highly anisotropic composite plate. Good agreement was found between the measurements and the plane wave model.
Motor Competence Prevalence in School-Aged Czech Children: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Šeflová Iva , Chudoba Josef , Duncan Michael , Suchomel Aleš , Bunc Václav
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to understand the motor competence (MC) level of Czech school-age children determined using the product-oriented Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency (second edition) and to analyze the gender and age differences. The MC level in n = 637 children aged 6.0–11.0 years (46.6% girls) was evaluated using total motor composite and subcategories of fine and gross motor skills: fine manual control, manual coordination, body coordination, and strength and agility. Seventy-one percent of children had at least a satisfactory level of MC. The distribution of the total motor composite score of the Czech sample was uneven, with only 11.0% scoring above average and 29.4% scoring below average. However, we found low-level of MC in almost one third of children. The prevalence of well-below average results was found at 7%. Significant differences were found depending on age (p < .001), where we observed decreased MC with increasing age. Gender differences were reflected in the poorer level of fine motor skills in boys (p < .001). Given the high prevalence of low MC, these findings suggest the need for effective intervention in Czech children as an important prerequisite for comprehensive development in physical, psychosocial, and cognitive aspects.
Building Social Capital in University Students: A Physical Education Intervention Program
Authors: Novak Dario , Petrušič Tanja , Čule Marko , Milinović Ivan , Kim Jinseo , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S.V.
Published: December 2024

Background: This study examines the effects of physical education on the social capital of university students, focusing on improving family, neighborhood, and academic relationships through group exercise. Methods: In Zagreb, Croatia, 976 participants aged 19–20 years participated in a randomized controlled trial. The intervention group (n = 472) engaged in teamwork exercises, and the control group (n = 504) completed individual exercises. The social capital measured in 6 areas was analyzed using linear regression and variance modeling. Results: Significant improvements in trust and collaboration within the university environment were found in the intervention group. Adjusted analyses showed positive correlations between the physical education intervention and increased trust between teachers and students (β = 0.118, P = .01), among students (β = 0.246, P = .01), and in total social capital (β = 0.617, P = .01). Residence in the parental home was associated with higher social capital. Notably, male and older students reported lower levels of trust and cooperation. Conclusions: Physical activity significantly improves the social capital of university students, suggesting the inclusion of group-based physical activities in higher education curricula to promote social inclusion and well-being. This underscores the importance of such interventions for educational policy and program development.
Examining Whether Exercise Preference and Tolerance Moderate the Within-Subject Association Between Physical Activity Intention and Next-Day Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity
Authors: Moore Kristen N. , Hatzinger Lori , Crosley-Lyons Rachel , Do Bridgette , Wang Shirlene D. , McAlister Kelsey , Chapman Tiffany M. , Hewus Micaela , Dunton Genevieve F.
Published: December 2024

Background: Physical activity (PA) intentions may predict future PA engagement, such that when intentions for PA are strong, an individual may be more likely to engage in PA compared with when intentions for PA are weak. However, intentions do not always translate into behavior, a phenomenon known as the intention–behavior gap. Individual differences in exercise preference (predisposition for high-intensity exercise) and tolerance (ability to continue exercising at higher intensity) may explain this gap. This study examined whether exercise preference and tolerance moderate the within-subject association between PA intention and next-day moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) using ecological momentary assessment and accelerometry. Methods: Exercise preference and tolerance were assessed at baseline using a validated questionnaire. A 14-day smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment protocol captured PA intentions each evening, and next-day MVPA was assessed via accelerometry. Multilevel linear regression models (days [level 1] nested within-people [level 2]) assessed within-subject associations between PA intention and next-day MVPA, along with cross-level interaction effects of exercise preference and tolerance. Results: Data from 62 US adults (mean age = 39 y, SD = 4.29 y) were analyzed. A negative within-subject main effect of PA intention on next-day MVPA was observed (β = −0.20, P < .001), while exercise preference positively moderated this relationship (β = 0.04, P < .001). Exercise tolerance was not a significant moderator. Conclusions: Exercise preference may influence the intention–behavior gap, suggesting that those who prefer high-intensity exercise are more likely to translate PA intentions into next-day MVPA.
Differential Exercise Requirements for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Resolution Across Age Groups: A Longitudinal Study of Korean Military Officers
Authors: Lee Jaejun , Lee Dong Yeup , Jung Jae Hyeop , Bae Eunkyoung , Yu Jeong A. , Yang Hyun
Published: December 2024

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a global health concern, and despite its high prevalence, lifestyle modifications such as exercise play a pivotal role in resolving this condition. This study aims to identify factors associated with NAFLD resolution, with a focus on the role of exercise, in different age groups. Methods: Longitudinal data from Korean military officers, during the period 2019–2021, were obtained from the National Health Information Database. NAFLD was defined as a hepatic steatosis index ≥36, and NAFLD resolution was defined as individuals achieving hepatic steatosis index <36 in the subsequent year of diagnosis. Information on alcohol consumption, exercise frequency, and family history of diabetes was collected through self-reported questionnaires. Results: The analysis included a total of 163,728 individuals, with a mean age of 36.87, predominantly male (91.62%). The prevalence of NAFLD was 27.04%. Favorable factors for NAFLD resolution encompassed moderate-intensity exercise for more than 180 minutes per week, vigorous-intensity exercise for more than 90 minutes per week, female sex, age, and resistance exercise for more than 3 days per week. Hypertension, family history of diabetes, and smoking were identified as factors against NAFLD resolution. The exercise requirements for NAFLD resolution varied among age groups, with those <30 years old requiring more than 180 minutes per week of moderate- or vigorous-intensity exercise and those >50 years old needing only 90 minutes per week of such exercise. Conclusion: The exercise requirements for NAFLD resolution exhibit age-related differences. Individualized guidance for NAFLD management should consider these variations and be tailored to specific age groups.
Comparison of Shoulder Rotation Strength and Test–Retest Reliability in 3 Test Positions With Swimmers
Authors: Job Trey D.W. , Cross Matthew R. , Cronin John B.
Published: December 2024

Context: Advancements in portable load-cell technology have enabled high-quality assessment of shoulder internal (IR) and external rotation (ER) peak force (Fmax) and rate of force development (RFD). This study’s purpose was to explore the reliability and differences between IR and ER Fmax and RFD in different testing positions using a novel load-cell device. Design: A within-subjects repeated-measures design was employed to compare the intersession values and reliability of Fmax and RFD for both shoulder IR and ER across 3 positions: seated-0°, supine-0° and supine-90°. Methods: National-level swimmers (n = 19; age = 16.8 [1.0] y) completed 3 testing occasions of each condition (combination of arm, rotation, and test position) separated by 7 to 14 days. Results: IR superseded ER in all testing positions. The association between these positions across IR and ER was typically strong for both Fmax and RFD (r > .85, P < .001) except for IR RFD (r = .56–.73, P < .05). For sessions 2 to 3, Fmax intraclass correlation coefficient and CV (intraclass correlation coefficient = .89–.96, CV = 5.2%–8.8%) were typically within acceptable ranges, whereas RFD (intraclass correlation coefficient = .74–.90, CV = 11.5%–18.1%) often exhibited inflated error. Conclusion: The supine (90°) position was the most consistent position across both measures. Load-cell technology can be confidently used to assess shoulder rotation Fmax in 3 different positions, whereas RFD should be used with caution without protocol refinement.
Evaluando la paradoja “Fat but Fit” en el rendimiento cognitivo y logro académico de los adolescentes: Un análisis de clases latentes – Proyecto Cogni-Acción
Authors: Espinoza-Puelles Juan Pablo , Martínez-Flores Ricardo , Peña-Jorquera Humberto , Lizana Pablo A. , Brand Caroline , Mello Júlio B. , Cristi-Montero Carlos
Published: December 2024

Propósito: Determinar patrones en la paradoja “Fat but Fit” y su impacto en el rendimiento cognitivo y logro académico en adolescentes chilenos. Esta paradoja sugiere que una mayor condición física puede mitigar los efectos negativos del exceso de adiposidad. Métodos: Estudio transversal, parte del Proyecto Cogni-Acción, incluyó 1,296 adolescentes (10-14 años). Se identificaron patrones de adiposidad/condición física mediante análisis de clases latentes y se evaluaron dominios cognitivos y calificaciones académicas. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas y positivas en las puntuación cognitiva global y puntuación académica entre adolescentes “thin-fit” versus “unfit” (“thin-unfit” y “fat-unfit”, p = .023 y p = .007, respectivamente) y “thin-fit” versus “fat” (“fat-fit” y “fat-unfit”, p = .028 y p < .001, respectivamente). Conclusión: Una mayor condición física se asocia con mayor rendimiento cognitivo, mientras que menor adiposidad a un mayor logro académico. La paradoja “Fat but Fit” podría influir de manera diferenciada en estos resultados.
Endomicroscopic AI-driven morphochemical imaging and fs-laser ablation for selective tumor identification and selective tissue removal
Authors: Calvarese Matteo , Corbetta Elena , Contreras Jhonatan , Bae Hyeonsoo , Lai Chenting , Reichwald Karl , Meyer-Zedler Tobias , Pertzborn David , Mühlig Anna , Hoffmann Franziska , Messerschmidt Bernhard , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando , Schmitt Michael , Bocklitz Thomas , Popp Juergen
Published: December 2024

The rising incidence of head and neck cancer represents a serious global health challenge, requiring more accurate diagnosis and innovative surgical approaches. Multimodal nonlinear optical microscopy, combining coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS), two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF), and second-harmonic generation (SHG) with deep learning–based analysis routines, offers label-free assessment of the tissue’s morphochemical composition and allows early-stage and automatic detection of disease. For clinical intraoperative application, compact devices are required. In this preclinical study, a cohort of 15 patients was examined with a newly developed rigid CARS/TPEF/SHG endomicroscope. To detect head and neck tumor from the multimodal data, deep learning–based semantic segmentation models were used. This preclinical study yields in a diagnostic sensitivity of 88% and a specificity of 96%. To combine diagnostics with therapy, machine learning–inspired image-guided selective tissue removal was used by integrating femtosecond laser ablation into the endomicroscope. This enables a powerful approach of intraoperative “seek and treat,” paving the way to advanced surgical treatment.
High-precision chemical quantum sensing in flowing monodisperse microdroplets
Authors: Sarkar Adrisha , Jones Zachary R. , Parashar Madhur , Druga Emanuel , Akkiraju Amala , Conti Sophie , Krishnamoorthi Pranav , Nachuri Srisai , Aman Parker , Hashemi Mohammad , Nunn Nicholas , Torelli Marco D. , Gilbert Benjamin , Wilson Kevin R. , Shenderova Olga A. , Tanjore Deepti , Ajoy Ashok
Published: December 2024

A method is presented for high-precision chemical detection that integrates quantum sensing with droplet microfluidics. Using nanodiamonds (ND) with fluorescent nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers as quantum sensors, rapidly flowing microdroplets containing analyte molecules are analyzed. A noise-suppressed mode of optically detected magnetic resonance is enabled by pairing controllable flow with microwave control of NV electronic spins, to detect analyte-induced signals of a few hundredths of a percent of the ND fluorescence. Using this method, paramagnetic ions in droplets are detected with low limit-of-detection using small analyte volumes, with exceptional measurement stability over >10
3
s. In addition, these droplets are used as microconfinement chambers by co-encapsulating ND quantum sensors with various analytes such as single cells, suggesting wide-ranging applications including single-cell metabolomics and real-time intracellular measurements from bioreactors. Important advances are enabled by this work, including portable chemical testing devices, amplification-free chemical assays, and chemical imaging tools for probing reactions within microenvironments.