bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond the scoreboard: Coaches' UV‐related skin cancer knowledge in outdoor sports
Authors: Schneider Sven , Parsons Zoe A. , Leer Sophie
Published: December 2024

Background

The global rise in UV radiation is widely recognized as one of the most relevant health impacts of climate change. Consequently, the prevalence of skin cancer is experiencing a significant increase, with outdoor athletes being identified as a particularly vulnerable population group.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the extent of UV‐specific skin cancer knowledge among coaches in outdoor sports and to examine potential variations in this knowledge between different sports, coach‐ and club‐specific factors.

Methods

This nationwide representative study was conducted among outdoor sports coaches from the 10 largest outdoor sports associations in Germany. Their knowledge of the risks associated with UV radiation and prevention measures were evaluated using the Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge Scale (SCSK Scale).

Results

Out of 1200 participating trainers, the UV‐specific skin cancer knowledge score averaged 17.76 (±2.98) on a scale ranging from 0 to 25. The true‐false statements ‘A tan is a sign that the skin is damaged’ (true) and ‘When using sunscreen, you can tan without any negative effects’ (false) were most frequently answered incorrectly. Only 16% of participants correctly identified basal cell carcinoma as the most prevalent form of skin cancer. Differences in UV‐specific skin cancer knowledge were evident across different sports, with football and tennis coaches showing the major knowledge deficits. Conversely, trainers in skiing, swimming and mountain sports demonstrated the highest levels of knowledge. Significant deficiencies in knowledge were particularly notable among male trainers, as well as those from the youngest and the oldest age group, with limited training experience and who primarily worked with children and adolescents in small clubs on a regular basis.

Conclusions

Serious knowledge deficiencies are evident among German outdoor sports coaches. The study results emphasize the necessity for enhanced coach education and the implementation of evaluated concepts for climate adaptation in sports.
The role of persistent right umbilical vein in the diagnosis of fetal genetic syndromes
Authors: Dizdaroğulları Gizem Elif , Demirci Oya , Ocal Aydın , Kahramanoğlu Özge , Akalın Munip
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Persistent right umbilical vein (PRUV) is an embryonic vascular abnormality. Recent studies suggested that the perinatal outcome was good and the risk of aneuploidy was low in isolated forms. Our purpose in this study was to assess the relation of PRUV with genetic abnormalities and demonstrate concomitant malformations and perinatal outcomes of these fetuses.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective study examining consecutive pregnancies diagnosed as having PRUV in our hospital between 2017 and 2022.

Results

A total of 41 patients were diagnosed as having fetuses with PRUV during the study period. Additional ultrasound findings were detected in 26 fetuses (63.4%). The most common associated finding was fetal growth restriction, which was found in 15 (36.5%) of 41 fetuses. This was followed by cardiovascular findings in eight (19.5%) fetuses. Genetic anomalies were detected in five (12.1%) fetuses. Down syndrome was detected in two fetuses (4.8%), nail‐patella syndrome in one fetus (2.4%), duplication of 7p was found in one fetus (2.4%), and Potocki‐Lupski syndrome (2.4%) was diagnosed in one fetus.

Conclusion

In our study we found that even in isolated cases, genetic syndromes could coexist and fetal growth could be impaired so it should be closely monitored.
The impact of gut microbiota in full‐term pregnant women on immune regulation during pregnancy: A prospective, exploratory study
Authors: Ma Guangyu , Yang Ping , Lu Tong , Chen Zhongsheng , Zhou Juan , Tye Kian Deng , Xiao Xiaomin
Published: December 2024

Aim

This study aims to investigate the correlation between gut microbiota and both placental local immune function and the maternal systemic immune system in pregnant women.

Methods

Twenty‐six pregnant women were included in this study, utilizing high‐throughput sequencing for gut microbiota analysis. Immune cells and cytokine levels were measured in placental tissue and peripheral venous blood. Integration of gut microbiota data with immune parameters was performed using R, and network correlation analysis was conducted with Cytoscape software.

Results

In placental tissues, gut microbiota predominantly influences B lymphocytes (CD3−CD19+/CD3−), indicating a potential bidirectional regulatory role. The impact on CD56+CD16+/CD56+CD16− and CD4+/CD8+ ratios appear minor. Notably, a significant positive correlation was observed between gut microbiota and the placental cytokine interleukin (IL)‐5. In peripheral blood, gut microbiota was primarily associated with negative regulation of peripheral B lymphocytes and positive regulation of peripheral Treg cells. Minimal effects are observed on peripheral macrophages and NK cell subtypes. The most substantial impact on peripheral immune balance was reflected in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, showing a predominant negative correlation, while the influence on the CD56+CD16+/CD56+CD16− ratio is minimal. A significant negative correlation was found between gut microbiota and peripheral cytokines IL‐1 and IL‐18, while the interaction with the peripheral interferon‐γ/IL‐4 ratio appears relatively less pronounced.

Conclusions

The close correlation between gut microbiota and placental local immune function, as well as maternal systemic immune responses, is evident. This study contributes to a preliminary understanding of the immunomodulatory relationship of gut microbiota during pregnancy.
Functional MRI and cognition in multiple sclerosis—Where are we now?
Authors: Mahmoudi Farhad , McCarthy Micheline , Nelson Flavia
Published: December 2024

Multiple sclerosis‐related cognitive impairment (MSrCI) affects most patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), significantly contributing to disability and socioeconomic challenges. MSrCI manifests across all disease stages, mainly impacting working memory, information processing, and attention. To date, the underlying mechanisms of MSrCI remain unclear, with its pathogenesis considered multifactorial. While conventional MRI findings correlate with MSrCI, there is no consensus on reliable imaging metrics to detect or diagnose cognitive impairment (CI). Functional MRI (fMRI) has provided unique insights into the brain's neuroplasticity mechanisms, revealing evidence of compensatory mechanisms in response to tissue damage, both beneficial and maladaptive. This review summarizes the current literature on the application of resting‐state fMRI (rs‐fMRI) and task‐based fMRI (tb‐fMRI) in understanding neuroplasticity and its relationship with cognitive changes in people with MS (pwMS). Searches of databases, including PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, and the Web of Science, were conducted for the most recent fMRI cognitive studies in pwMS. Key findings ifrom rs‐fMRI studies reveal disruptions in brain connectivity and hub integration, leading to CI due to decreased network efficiency. tb‐fMRI studies highlight abnormal brain activation patterns in pwMS, with evidence of increased fMRI activity in earlier disease stages as a beneficial compensatory response, followed by reduced activation correlating with increased lesion burden and cognitive decline as the disease progresses. This suggests a gradual exhaustion of compensatory mechanisms over time. These findings support fMRI not only as a diagnostic tool for MSrCI but also as a potential imaging biomarker to improve our understanding of disease progression.
Time‐dependent MR diffusion analysis of functioning and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas/pituitary neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Kamimura Kiyohisa , Tokuda Tomohiro , Kamizono Junki , Nakano Tsubasa , Hasegawa Tomohito , Nakajo Masanori , Ejima Fumitaka , Kanzaki Fumiko , Takumi Koji , Nakajo Masatoyo , Fujio Shingo , Hanaya Ryosuke , Tanimoto Akihide , Iwanaga Takashi , Imai Hiroshi , Feiweier Thorsten , Yoshiura Takashi
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

Differentiation between functioning and nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas/pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PAs) is clinically relevant. The goal of this study was to determine the feasibility of using time‐dependent diffusion MRI (dMRI) for microstructural characterization of PAs.

Methods

The study included 54 participants, 24 with functioning PA and 30 with nonfunctioning PA. Time‐dependent dMRI of the pituitary gland was performed using an inner field‐of‐view echo‐planar imaging based on 2‐dimensional‐selective radiofrequency excitations with oscillating gradient and pulsed gradient preparation (effective diffusion time: 7.1 and 36.3 ms) at b‐values of 0 and 1000 seconds/mm2. Each tumor had its apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) measured at two diffusion times (ADC7.1 ms and ADC36.3 ms), its ADC change (cADC), and relative ADC change. The mean values of diffusion parameters were compared between functioning and nonfunctioning PAs. We compared the diffusion parameters of nonfunctioning PAs with those of each type of hormone‐producing PAs. The diagnostic performances of the diffusion parameters were assessed.

Results

The cADC was significantly higher in functioning PAs than nonfunctioning PAs (p = .0124). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that cADC (area under the ROC curve [AUC] = .677, p = .017) is effective in distinguishing between functioning and nonfunctioning PAs. The cADC was significantly higher in growth hormone (GH)‐producing PAs compared to nonfunctioning PAs (p = .006). The ROC curve analysis indicated that cADC (AUC = .771, p < .001) effectively distinguishes between GH‐producing and nonfunctioning PAs.

Conclusions

The cADC derived from time‐dependent dMRI could distinguish between functioning and nonfunctioning PAs, particularly those producing GH.
Comparison of the 3‐Year Continuation Rate and Discontinuation Factors Between Vibegron and Mirabegron in Patients With Overactive Bladder: A Retrospective Follow‐Up Study in a Rehabilitation Hospital in Japan
Authors: Mukai Shigeto , Nomi Masashi , Yanagiuchi Akihiro , Sengoku Atsushi
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to compare the 3‐year continuation rate and discontinuation factors between vibegron and mirabegron in patients with overactive bladder in a rehabilitation hospital in Japan.

Methods

The 3‐year continuation rate of the target drugs and reasons for discontinuation as well as patients' backgrounds and adverse effects were evaluated retrospectively from the medical records between September 2018 and December 2020. After selecting patients according to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, 136 cases taking mirabegron and 82 taking vibegron were adjusted for intergroup variability by propensity score matching. We performed Cox proportional hazards regression for the 3‐year continuation rate and Fine‐Gray proportional hazards regression for the 3‐year cumulative incidence of discontinuation events. Subgroup analysis was also performed.

Results

Approximately 70% of the patients analyzed had neurogenic overactive bladder. The 3‐year continuation rate was 65.2% in vibegron and 30.3% in mirabegron, and the hazard ratio was 0.41 (95% confidence interval: 0.25–0.68, p < 0.001) as for an incidence of discontinuation events of vibegron against mirabegron. The incidence of discontinuation due to inadequate efficacy was 22.7% in vibegron and 47.0% in mirabegron, and similarly the hazard ratio was 0.43 (95% confidence interval: 0.23–0.80, p < 0.01). In the subgroup analysis, vibegron continued significantly more than mirabegron for the 3‐year continuation rate in non‐neurogenic overactive bladder (p < 0.001), in spontaneous voiding (p < 0.001), in anticholinergic combination (p = 0.0017), in female (p < 0.001), and in 70 years or older (p = 0.0028). Additionally, a significant interaction was observed regarding the methods of emptying urine (p = 0.0066).

Conclusions

Vibegron was superior to mirabegron in the 3‐year continuation rate of administration with a fewer discontinuation due to inadequate efficacy in a patient population with relatively high rates of neurogenic overactive bladder.
Prevalence of severe and moderate anthropometric failure among children in India, 1993–2021
Authors: Narayanan Menaka , Karlsson Omar , Kumar Akhil , Pullum Thomas W. , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S. V.
Published: December 2024

Though child anthropometric failure (CAF) is a persistent problem in India, previous studies have often neglected state‐level variance and aggregated moderate and severe CAF categories. This study addresses this gap by examining moderate and severe malnutrition across India's states and union territories (UTs) from 1993 to 2021. Data of children under 2 years old from five waves of National Family Health Surveys, a representative cross‐sectional survey of Indian households, were analysed. Outcomes included prevalence of moderate and severe stunting, underweight and wasting, as per the 2006 World Health Organization growth standards. Percentage prevalence and standardized absolute change (SAC) were calculated nationally and by region for each wave. From 1993 to 2021, there was a notable reduction in the nationwide prevalence of moderate stunting, underweight and wasting, with rates dropping from 20% to 16%, 23% to 18%, and 15% to 12%, respectively. Severe stunting and underweight declined considerably from 23% to 16% and 18% to 11%, respectively; severe wasting marginally increased from 8% to 9%. From 2016 to 2021 moderate underweight was noted to have the highest SAC across all regions, although 15 regions saw an increase in the prevalence of moderate underweight. In the 2016–2021 period, severe wasting has increased in 13 of the 36 regions. While there has been a nationwide reduction in most indicators of CAF since 1993, the rate and direction of change vary widely among states and UTs and between moderate and severe categories within each of the states and UTs. Understanding these patterns of change can direct context‐specific interventions for improving child nutrition and health. A greater focus on reducing severe wasting, which has increased since 1993, is also crucial.
Effectiveness of Mindfulness on Student Anxiety and Depression During the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Pranata Gst. Kade Adi Widyas , Koa Apryadno Jose Al Freadman , Chang Ying‐Ju
Published: December 2024

Anxiety and depression are the most common psychological issues experienced by students during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Mindfulness has been suggested as a potential solution to these issues; however, limited studies have evaluated its effectiveness. This study aimed to synthesize experimental studies that measure the effectiveness of mindfulness in reducing student anxiety and depression during the COVID‐19 pandemic. A comprehensive systematic search across 11 databases was conducted from inception to September 9, 2024. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. A random‐effects model with a standardized mean difference (SMD) was employed to determine the effect sizes. Thirty‐one experimental studies reported on anxiety, and 24 reported on depression. The overall effect size was moderately significant for reducing anxiety (SMD = −0.71, 95% CI = −1.02 to −0.39, p < 0.0001) and depression (SMD = −0.53, 95% CI = −0.81 to −0.25, p = 0.0002). These findings can inform policies regarding the application of mindfulness for students facing psychological challenges due to educational‐related crises. Further high‐quality studies are essential to determine the true impact of mindfulness.
Barriers to and Facilitators of e‐Learning Health Education Based on the Mental Workload Framework: A Scoping Review
Authors: Yan Chuchu , Shan Yawei , Lu Haiying , Han Lin , Xie Tong , Wang Wenxuan
Published: December 2024

This scoping review of studies on patients' mental workload (MWL) in health education via e‐learning was conducted to characterize the state of research and to identify barriers to and facilitators of e‐learning. The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and PsycINFO electronic databases were searched through September 10, 2023. A descriptive analysis of study characteristics and a content analysis of barriers to and facilitators of MWL were conducted. Among the 2837 studies screened for eligibility, 38 were included. A relatively small number of articles used a comprehensive framework to explore barriers to and facilitators of e‐learning or used indicators of MWL to assess application usability and user experience. Analyses of factors influencing the effectiveness of e‐learning in health education identified key predictors across five domains: individual, task, technical, environmental, and interactive aspects. The incorporation of multifaceted influencing factors that contribute to optimizing the MWL should be a priority when using e‐learning in health education. Future research should give more attention to investigating the generative mechanism of e‐learning in health education to enhance targeted program design.
The promising role of proteomes and metabolomes in defining the single‐cell landscapes of plants
Authors: Anderton Christopher R. , Uhrig R. Glen
Published: December 2024

The plant community has a strong track record of RNA sequencing technology deployment, which combined with the recent advent of spatial platforms (e.g. 10× genomics) has resulted in an explosion of single‐cell and nuclei datasets that can be positioned in an in situ context within tissues (e.g. a cell atlas). In the genomics era, application of proteomics technologies in the plant sciences has always trailed behind that of RNA sequencing technologies, largely due in part to upfront cost, ease‐of‐use, and access to expertise. Conversely, the use of early analytical tools for characterizing small molecules (metabolites) from plant systems predates nucleic acid sequencing and proteomics analysis, as the search for plant‐based natural products has played a significant role in improving human health throughout history. As the plant sciences field now aims to fully define cell states, cell‐specific regulatory networks, metabolic asymmetry and phenotypes, the measurement of proteins and metabolites at the single‐cell level will be paramount. As a result of these efforts, the plant community will unlock exciting opportunities to accelerate discovery and drive toward meaningful translational outcomes.
Light‐activated channelrhodopsins: a revolutionary toolkit for the remote control of plant signalling
Authors: Hedrich Rainer , Gilliham Matthew
Published: December 2024

Channelrhodopsins (CHRs), originating within algae and protists, are membrane‐spanning ion channel proteins that are directly activated and/or deactivated by specific wavelengths of light. Since 2005, CHRs have been deployed as genetically encoded optogenetic tools to rapidly advance understanding of neuronal networks. CHRs provide the opportunity to finely tune ion transport across membranes and regulate membrane potential. These are fundamental biochemical signals, which in plants can be translated into physiological and developmental responses such as changes in photosynthesis, growth, turgor, vascular hydraulics, phosphorylation or reactive oxygen species (ROS) status, gene expression, or even cell death. Exploration of CHR family diversity and structure–function engineering has led to the expansion of the CHR optogenetic toolbox, offering unparalleled opportunities to precisely control and understand electrical and secondary messenger signalling in higher plants. In this Tansley Insight, we provide an overview of the recent progress in the application of CHR optogenetics in higher plants and discuss their possible uses in the remote control of plant biology, illuminating a new future domain for plant research enabled through synthetic biology.
Parallels and divergences in landscape genetic and metacommunity patterns in zooplankton inhabiting soda pans
Authors: Horváth Zsófia , Hadush Haileselasie Tsegazeabe , Vad Csaba F. , Ptacnik Robert , De Meester Luc
Published: December 2024

Ecological processes maintaining landscape genetic variation and metacommunity structure in natural landscapes have traditionally been studied in isolation. Their integrated study may inform on whether major ecological processes affect species or landscapes differently, yielding a more cohesive understanding of the spatial organization of biodiversity. Here, we investigated the relative importance of spatial and environmental drivers on cladoceran metacommunity structure and the landscape genetic structure of its most widespread member, Daphnia magna, in soda pans of the Seewinkel region in Austria, covering the entire habitat network. These temporary pans exhibit strong environmental gradients, with wind serving as a key dispersal agent among them. Our study shows both parallels and divergences in the relative impacts of environmental sorting and spatial connectivity on landscape genetic versus metacommunity structure. The metacommunity primarily reflects environmental structuring, while spatial signals dominate in the D. magna metapopulation. The weaker environmental signal in Daphnia suggests that environmental gradients are not a key driver of landscape genetic structure in neutral markers. Prevailing wind direction was an important driver both in metacommunity and landscape genetic structure. This suggests its pivotal role across the two levels of ecological organization via determining connectivity among pans, thereby affecting dispersal and colonization rates, influencing both local species and genetic composition.
Evaluation of indices for the assessment and classification of keratoconus based on optical coherence tomography and Scheimpflug technology
Authors: Herber Robert , Lenk Janine , Ramm Lisa , Wittig Dierk , Patzner Maria Magdalena , Pillunat Lutz E. , Raiskup Frederik
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To compare the parameters and indices of a novel swept‐source optical coherence tomography device (SS‐OCT, ANTERION) with those of a rotating Scheimpflug camera (RSC)‐based tomograph (Pentacam) in normal and keratoconic (KC) eyes.

Methods

This prospective, monocentric, cross‐sectional study included individuals with unoperated normal and KC eyes, selecting one eye per subject. Ectasia‐specific parameters analysed with the SS‐OCT were difference in mean keratometry (Kmean) in the inferior and superior meridians, maximum keratometry value (Kmax), elevation of the posterior surface at the thinnest point, screening corneal objective risk of ectasia (SCORE) and thinnest point thickness. With the RSC, parameters determined were Belin/Ambrosio total deviation value (BAD‐D), index of height decentration and index of vertical asymmetry. KC classification with the SS‐OCT was based on the anterior and posterior radii of curvature and thinnest point thickness according to the ABCD classification of the RSC system.

Results

This study included 117 individuals with healthy eyes and 335 eyes with KC. The indices with the highest diagnostic discriminatory ability between the two cohorts were SCORE, difference of Kmean in the inferior and superior meridians and posterior elevation of the thinnest point (SS‐OCT), as well as the index of height decentration, index of vertical asymmetry and BAD‐D (RSC). The classifications using SS‐OCT defined mild‐stage KC as Kmax, posterior elevation of the thinnest point and thinnest point thickness as ≤50.9 D, ≤30 and ≥472 μm, respectively. Moderate stage values were 51–55.9 D, 31–69 and 471–438 μm, respectively, while respective advanced stage were ≥56 D, ≥70 and ≤437 μm.

Conclusion

The diagnostic capabilities for both devices were found to be comparable. KC classification using SS‐OCT can be independently based on the anterior surface, posterior surface and corneal thickness.
DERIVING LATIN ABLATIVE ABSOLUTE: LABELS AND PHASES*
Authors: Jakielaszek Jarosław
Published: December 2024

The Latin ablative absolute construction is usually considered a unitary phenomenon with regard to its external syntax, being a clausal participial adjunct, mostly appearing in the left–peripheral area of their hosts. A closer analysis carried out in the framework of the Minimalist Program of Chomsky (1993, 1995), with theoretical proposals put forward in Chomsky (2013, 2015b, 2020b, 2021) and related work as the specific background, allows accounting for their properties as a result of Set‐Merge and interaction of independently motivated properties of syntactic operations. The behaviour of ablative absolute with regard to accessibility to operations targeting them from outside and their labeling properties follow from specific featural specification of their constituents. It is also argued that accounting for syntactic properties of different kinds of the ablative absolute construction does not require positing any language–particular or construction–specific rules.
Heat Transfer and Flow Field Characteristics of Variable Aspect Ratio, Serpentine Passages
Authors: Wang Hanlin , Klein Denali , Wright Lesley M.
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effect of acceleration and deceleration in the turn region of a two-pass, serpentine channel. Channel aspect ratios of 2:1 and 4:1 are considered in three combinations to investigate the effect of acceleration and deceleration through the turn region in a smooth, two-pass channel. For each aspect ratio combination, the experiments include Reynolds numbers ranging from 15,000 to 45,000 in the first passage and from 9,000 to 75,000 in the second pass. Surface heat transfer coefficient (h) distributions are measured by transient thermochromic liquid crystal technique, and the flow field characteristics are measured by tomographic PIV. Enhanced heat transfer on the side wall and downstream in the second pass is observed for all cases. Based on the first-pass Nusselt number (Nu) ratio, the accelerating case provides the best heat transfer enhancement. However, based on the second-pass Nu ratio, the decelerating case is more promising. If the Reynolds number is controlled, the constant cross-sectional case has the highest Nu and h in the turn. If the mass flowrate is controlled, the accelerating case exhibits the lowest overall average Nu and h. The flow field results suggest that the secondary flow induced by the turn is weakened when the flow accelerates after the turn for the accelerating channel. The opposite is observed for the decelerating channel. The strength of the counterrotating vortex pair, turbulence level, and local heat transfer enhancements are closely correlated in a serpentine channel.
ADDOPT: An Additive Manufacturing Optimal Control Framework Demonstrated in Minimizing Layer-Level Thermal Variance in Electron Beam Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Khrenov Mikhail , Frieden Templeton William , Prabha Narra Sneha
Published: December 2024

The large temporal and spatial variations in temperature that can occur in layer-wise metal additive manufacturing (AM) lead to thermal excursions, resulting in property variations and defects. These variations cannot always be fully mitigated by simple static parameter search. To address this challenge, we propose a general approach based on modeling AM processes on the part-scale in state-space and framing AM process planning as a numerical optimal control problem. We demonstrate this approach on the problem of minimizing thermal variation in a given layer in the electron beam powder bed fusion AM process, and are able to compute globally optimal dynamic process plans. These optimized process plans are then evaluated in simulation, achieving an 87% and 86% reduction in cumulative variance compared to random spot melting and a uniform power field respectively, and are further validated in experiment. This one-shot feedforward planning approach expands the capabilities of AM technology by minimizing the need for iterative experiments and simulations to achieve process optimization. Further, this work opens the possibility for the application of optimal control theory to part-scale optimization and control in AM.
The Influence of Occupant Characteristics, Seat Positioning, and Pre-Crash Maneuvers on Front Passenger Safety Performance
Authors: Dahiya Akshay , Untaroiu Costin
Published: December 2024

Crash avoidance vehicle maneuvers are known to influence occupant posture and kinematics which consequently may influence injury risks in the event of a crash. In this work, a generic buck vehicle finite element (FE) model was developed which included the vehicle interior and the front passenger airbag (PAB). Seat position and occupant characteristics including anthropometry, sex, and age were varied in a design of experiments. Two pre-crash maneuvers representing (1) a generic 1 g braking and (2) turning-and-braking scenarios were simulated. Rigid-body human models with active joints (GHBMCsi-pre models) obtained by morphing a 50th male model to selected anthropometries were used in pre-crash simulations. The kinematics data of belted GHBMCsi-pre models at the end of the pre-crash phase were transferred using a developed switch algorithm to the corresponding morphed Global Human Body Model Consortium (GHBMC) occupant simplified (OS) models to predict occupant injury risks. Finally, an FMVSS-208 pulse was applied to simulate the in-crash phase. During both pre-crash maneuvers, the occupant's head and thorax moved forward toward the dashboard. Therefore, the head and thorax contacted the PAB earlier, leading to lower head accelerations when the pre-crash phase was considered. Overall, it was concluded that pre-crash braking decreased the severity of injury sustained by the passenger. Seat track position and seat recline angle showed the highest influence on the head injury criterion (HIC). The brain injury criterion (BrIC) and neck injury criterion (Nij) were most sensitive to pre-crash maneuver type, seat recline angle, and occupant size.
Trimethylboron as a precursor for boron phosphide plasma deposition at low temperature
Authors: Maksimova Alina , Uvarov Alexander , Kirilenko Demid , Baranov Artem , Vyacheslavova Ekaterina , Gudovskikh Alexander , Kleider Jean-Paul
Published: December 2024

Boron phosphide (BP) thin films are potential selective contact layers for photovoltaic (PV) devices. However, lower deposition temperatures are preferred in the fabrication of many PV devices, such as solar cells, to reduce their cost. Here, boron phosphide layers were grown on silicon (100) substrates using the standard plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) and time-modulated PECVD methods with trimethylboron [B(CH3)3, TMB] and phosphine precursors. The effect of plasma power and Ar addition on structural properties and chemical composition is investigated, while material properties are analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. Chemical characterization by the electron diffraction x-ray spectroscopy method showed high carbon content in the BP layer. Electron energy loss spectroscopy demonstrated almost stoichiometric B and P (1:1) content. Raman spectroscopy of annealed samples showed an increase in carbon-related peaks, therefore indicating that annealing does not lead to the crystallization of boron phosphide. Thus, using TMB as a precursor of boron leads to carbon contamination in both standard and time-modulated modes. Optical emission spectroscopy showed that the low-temperature growth of BP without plasma (Ar or phosphine) assistance using TMB is impossible. We conclude that there is a need to investigate other boron precursors for boron phosphide low-temperature growth to avoid carbon contamination in BP films.
Bacterial microcompartment utilization in the human commensal
Escherichia coli
Nissle 1917
Authors: Clare Chania , Rutter Jack W. , Fedorec Alex J. H. , Frank Stefanie , Barnes Chris P.
Published: December 2024

Bacterial microcompartments (BMCs) are self-assembled protein structures often utilized by bacteria as a modular metabolic unit, enabling the catalysis and utilization of less common carbon and nitrogen sources within a self-contained compartment. The
ethanolamine (EA) utilization (eut)
BMC has been widely demonstrated in enteropathogens, such as
Salmonella enterica
, and current research is exploring its activity in the commensal species that populate the human gut.
Escherichia coli
Nissle 1917 (EcN) is a strong colonizer and probiotic in gut microbial communities and has been used extensively for microbiome engineering. In this study, the utilization of ethanolamine as a sole carbon source and the formation of the
eut
BMC in EcN were demonstrated through growth assays and visualization with transmission electron microscopy. Subsequently, flux balance analysis was used to further investigate the metabolic activity of this pathway. It was found that not only is the utilization of the
eut
BMC for the degradation of EA as a carbon source in EcN comparable with that of
Salmonella enterica
but also that ammonium is released into solution as a byproduct in EcN but not in
S. enterica
. Control of EA-dependent growth was demonstrated using different concentrations of the operon inducer, vitamin B
12
. We show that vitamin B
12
-dependent EA utilization as the sole carbon source enables growth in EcN, and demonstrate the concurrent formation of the BMC shell and inducible control of the
eut
operon.

IMPORTANCE

The human gut is a complex environment of different bacterial species, nutrient sources, and changing conditions that are essential for human health. An imbalance can allow for the emergence of opportunistic pathogens. Bacterial microcompartments (BMCs) are utilized by bacteria to metabolize less common nutrients, conferring a growth advantage. Although widely studied in enteropathogens, there is limited research on BMC activity in commensal species. We demonstrate the formation of the eut BMC and utilization of ethanolamine as a carbon source in the human gut commensal
Escherichia coli
Nissle 1917 (EcN). Additionally, we found increased ammonium production when EcN utilized ethanolamine but did not see the same in
Salmonella enterica
, highlighting potential differences in how these species affect the wider microbial community.
Comparison of the BluePoint MoldID oligonucleotide array and Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS for the identification of filamentous fungi
Authors: Chou Chia-Hua , Chao Qiao-Ting , Lu Yun-Shan , Lee Tai-Fen , Hsueh Po-Ren , Huang Yu-Tsung , Liao Chun-Hsing
Published: December 2024

BluePoint MoldID can identify 43 fungal species through nucleic acid array hybridization and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) can identify 247 filamentous fungi through mass spectrometry. First, 43 standard isolates from the Bioresource Collection and Research Center, Taiwan, and the College of American Pathologists and 41 clinical
Aspergillus
species isolates confirmed by rDNA-ITS sequencing were analyzed using BluePoint MoldID and Bruker MALDI-TOF MS. BluePoint MoldID accurately identified 79% (34/43) of the standard isolates to the species level but failed to recognize nine isolates absent from its database; additionally, 87.8% (36/41) of the clinical isolates were identified at the species level, with 80.5% (33/41) accuracy. MALDI-TOF MS identified 86% (37/43) of the standard isolates, with 81.4% (35/43) accurately identified at the species level and two at the genus level, and identified all the clinical isolates, with 92.6% (38/41) accurately identified at the species level. Next, we analyzed 93 clinical
Aspergillus
species and compared the results by rDNA-ITS sequencing. BluePoint MoldID identified 87.1% (81/93) of the isolates at the species level, with 80.6% (75/93) accuracy. MALDI-TOF MS identified 97.8% (91/93) of the isolates, including some uncommon species, with 90.3% (84/93) accuracy at the species level. BluePoint MoldID and MALDI-TOF MS had turnaround times of 8 and 2 h, respectively, significantly reducing the time needed to identify filamentous fungi.

IMPORTANCE

The BluePoint MoldID kit is an oligonucleotide array used for the identification of filamentous fungi, and it has not yet been mentioned in recent studies. We used a BluePoint MoldID kit to identify standard and clinical filamentous fungal isolates and compared its performance with that of Bruker MALDI-TOF MS. The former accurately identified 80.2% of the isolates (142/177), and the latter identified 92.6% of the isolates (164/177). The performance of the BluePoint MoldID kit was slightly inferior to that of Bruker MALDI-TOF MS because of the smaller database. However, the BluePoint MoldID kit can cover most clinically common opportunistic fungal infections; thus, it offers an alternative method for laboratories that lack MALDI-TOF MS equipment, as the device is less expensive.
The neurological damage caused by enterovirus 71 infection is associated with hsa_circ_0069335/miR-29b/PMP22 pathway
Authors: Liu Guangming , Zhu Danping , Feng Kuan , Peng Hongxia , Yang Sida , Huang Li , Li Peiqing
Published: December 2024

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection is usually accompanied by neurological damage, which is the leading cause of death in children with hand-foot-mouth disease. In this study, we demonstrated that EV71 infection can cause pathological damage in the nervous system, such as neuronal vacuolar degeneration, shrinkage of some neurons, edema of brain tissues in the hippocampus, and a decreased number of Nissl bodies in the infarction area. Also, EV71 infection caused apparent structural damage to Schwann cells, including a decreased number of cytoplasmic organelles and severe damage of rough endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria. However, the pathological damage was alleviated with the decrease of EV71 viral load. The cell experiment
in vitro
showed that EV71 infection significantly reduced ATP levels and promoted Schwann cell apoptosis, thus inhibiting cell growth. The extended infection time and the decreased viral load resulted in the gradual improvement of cell growth status. Meanwhile, EV71 inhibited the expression of miR-29b and promoted the expression of PMP22 in a time-dependent manner at both mRNA and protein levels, with the most significant change at 36 h of infection. Subsequently, the expression of miR-29b and PMP22 was gradually restored with the reduction of EV71 viral load. In addition, EV71 regulated the expression of hsa_circ_0069335, which could bind and co-localize with miR-29b. Therefore, EV71 infection can cause significant damage to the nervous system and may be related to hsa_circ_0069335/miR-29b/PMP22 pathway. The present study provides a new therapeutic target for neurological damage induced by EV71 infection.

IMPORTANCE

EV71 can cause severe neurological damage and even death, but the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we exhibited the pathological changes of nervous system in EV71 infection and revealed that the damage degree was consistent with the EV71 viral load. From the molecular perspective, EV71 infection up-regulated the PMP22 expression in Schwann cells, which is accompanied by apparent structural damage of Schwann cells and myelin sheaths. Furthermore, EV71 promoted the expression of PMP22 and inhibited the expression of miR-29b in a time-dependent manner, with the most significant change at 36 h of infection. Otherwise, the hsa_circ_0069335, which binds and co-localizes with miR-29b, was also regulated by EV71 infection. The hsa_circ_0069335/miR-29b/PMP22 axis may be a potential molecular mechanism involved in EV71 infection-induced fatal neuronal damage. Drug development targeting this pathway may bring clinical improvement of EV71-infected patients.
Advanced epithelioid haemangioendothelioma in a child presenting as deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Shields Timothy , Pace Erika , Height Sue , Angelini Paola
Published: December 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a rare event in children and does not usually trigger investigation for malignancy. We report the case of a previously healthy female teenager presenting with unilateral leg swelling. Colour-Doppler ultrasound confirmed deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and the thrombophilia workup was negative. Cross-sectional imaging identified multiple liver and lung lesions, diagnosed as epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (EHE) at biopsy. Lifelong anticoagulation was commenced; the patient was initially observed and then started on sirolimus at disease progression. We describe the first published case of EHE presenting with DVT in a child. Clinicians need to be mindful of the association between cancer and thrombosis, even in paediatric patients.
Role of hypercoagulability in multifocal osteonecrosis
Authors: Paul Nirvin , Sharma Ajay , Yadav Arvind , Bhakhar Anurag
Published: December 2024

Bone infarction describes bone marrow necrosis that occurs within a long bone’s metaphysis or diaphysis. Multiple causative factors lead to ischaemia and subsequent necrosis of bone marrow. The role of hypercoagulability in bone ischaemia is a well-established phenomenon. Orthopaedic specialists play a crucial role in managing affected individuals due to their risk of developing malignancy. We had a case of a man in his late 20s with multifocal osteonecrosis. He was evaluated for hypercoagulability and was found to have mild hyperhomocysteinaemia. He also had an elevated level of factor VIII activity. He was managed conservatively and showed good improvement on vitamin supplementation for hyperhomocysteinaemia. As malignant transformation of the infarction can occur, orthopaedic surgeons need to be aware of this and keep such patients under regular follow-up.
Malignant thyroid neoplasm with ectopic Cushing’s syndrome
Authors: Jha Vivek , Bhadada Sanjay , Das Liza , Madhad Siddhartha
Published: December 2024

An adult man in his 30s with newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus and hypertension presented with a 33 lb weight gain, generalised swelling and classic Cushingoid features, including proximal muscle weakness, easy bruisability, wide violaceous striae and a painless, progressively enlarging right-sided neck swelling over the past month. Physical examination revealed a 4×4 cm thyroid mass, facial plethora and dorsocervical fat pads. Laboratory investigations confirmed hypercortisolism with elevated cortisol and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone(ACTH), with non-suppression on dexamethasone suppression tests. Imaging studies identified a malignant thyroid mass and bulky adrenal glands. Fine-needle aspiration cytology confirmed medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) with significantly elevated calcitonin and carcinoembryonic antigen. The patient was diagnosed with ectopic Cushing’s syndrome secondary to MTC and underwent bilateral adrenalectomy followed by total thyroidectomy. Postoperatively, ACTH levels normalised; however, residual tumour was detected, necessitating external beam radiotherapy.
Enhancing provider–patient connection through low-effort interventions: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Brickson Claire , Hammar Dagan , Harnke Ben , Chopra Vineet , Li Tianjing , Baduashvili Amiran
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Nudges, or low-effort interventions aimed at influencing behaviour, can improve provider medical decision-making through promoting adherence to practice guidelines. Strengthening provider–patient humanistic connection through nudges may increase provider satisfaction, mitigate burnout and improve patient satisfaction and outcomes. This scoping review aims to map the literature investigating provider-directed, low-effort interventions aimed at enhancing the provider–patient connection.

Methods and analysis

The authors conducted a preliminary search to identify terms that will be used in the final search strategy. The search follows Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and will be used to query Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane databases. Two authors will work independently to screen abstracts and full text. We will summarise the findings using descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis and will use SEIPS 2.0 as the anchoring framework.

Ethics and dissemination

As a secondary analysis of published data, this study does not require ethics approval. The results will be submitted to relevant academic peer-reviewed journals and conferences. We anticipate that the interventions surveyed in this scoping review will have the potential to be incorporated into clinical practice at an individual and systemic level with the goal of enhancing providers’ sense of meaning connected to their work, mitigating burnout and improving the patient experience.
Effect of communicating genetic risk of type 2 diabetes and wearable technologies on wearable device-measured behavioural outcomes in East Asians: protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kim Youngwon , Godino Job G , Cheung Flora Lai Tung , Multhaup Michael , Chan Derwin King Chung K C , Chen Ziyuan , Ho Harrison Hin Sheung , Tse Tsz Him Timothy , Au Yeung Shiu Lun Ryan , Lou Shan , Zhang Joni H , Wang Mengyao , Chung Brian , Griffin Simon
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The communication of information about the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) alone has not been associated with changes in habitual behaviours among individuals of European ancestry. In contrast, the use of wearable devices that monitor physical activity (PA) has been associated with behavioural changes in some studies. It is uncertain whether risk communication might enhance the effects of wearable devices. We aim to assess the effects of communicating genetic risk for T2D alone or in combination with wearable device functions on wearable device-measured PA among overweight or obese East Asians.

Methods and analysis

In a parallel group, randomised controlled trial, 355 overweight or obese East Asian individuals aged 40–60 years are allocated into one of three groups: one control and two intervention groups. Blood samples will be used for estimation of T2D genetic risk and analysis of metabolic risk markers. Genetic risk of T2D will be estimated based on 113 single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with T2D among East Asians. All three groups receive a Fitbit device. Both intervention groups will receive T2D genetic risk estimates along with lifestyle advice, but one of the intervention groups additionally uses Fitbit’s step goal setting and prompt functions. Questionnaires and physical measurements are administered at baseline, immediately after intervention delivery, and 6 and 12 months post intervention. The primary outcome is time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA from the Fitbit, which will be assessed at baseline, immediately post intervention, 12 months post intervention and at 6-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes include other wearable device-measured parameters, sedentary time, and sleep, blood pressure, metabolic risk markers, hand grip strength, self-reported PA, fruit and vegetable consumption, smoking, and psychological variables. Between-group differences in the continuous and categorical variables collected at baseline will be examined using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and χ2tests, respectively. A series of linear mixed effects models with fixed effects of time, group and interaction between time and group will be performed, with adjustment for potential confounders.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has undergone review and received approval from the ethics committee of the University of Hong Kong. Findings from our trial will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed research journals and presented at international academic conferences.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov,NCT05524909.https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/(11 November 2024).