bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Infectious touching: Has COVID-19 changed our perceptions of social touch? A neural and behavioral study
Authors: Zoabi Dana , Abado Elinor , Shamay-Tsoory Simone , Peled-Avron Leehe 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Social touch is essential for reducing stress, improving mood and fostering a sense of social connectedness. Stimuli related to social touch are generally perceived as positive. Nevertheless, the social restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic may have changed the way human beings perceive and react to social touch. Indeed, the social distancing imposed by the pandemic may have had long term effects on human perceptions of social touch. In the current study, we examined how perceptions of interpersonal touch in social interactions were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, we compared behavioral and neural responses to observed social touch between two groups: pre- and post-COVID-19. Participants in both groups rated the pleasantness of photos of social touch between humans, nonsocial touch between inanimate objects or non-touch photos of either two humans or inanimate objects. We hypothesized that social touch in the post-COVID-19 group would induce hypervigilance due to the risk of infection. In line with our predictions, we found behavioral changes in perceptions of social touch among participants in this group, who rated photos with touch as less pleasant than did participants in the pre-COVID-19 group. Participants in the post-COVID-19 group also rated photos with humans as less pleasant than did participants in the pre-COVID-19 group. Additionally, EEG analysis revealed neural changes in the ERP components associated with hypervigilance: P1 and LPP. Contrary to pre-COVID-19 measures showing more positive P1 amplitudes for touch than for non-touch photos, after COVID-19 no differences in P1 amplitudes were found between touch and non-touch photos. Furthermore, after COVID-19 the P1 amplitudes for human and inanimate photos in the touch condition were similar, a pattern that did not emerge prior to COVID-19. These findings suggest that COVID-19 had a surprising impact on human perceptions of social touch, such that observing nonsocial touch evoked more positive emotions than observing human touch. Further, these findings may reflect shifts in attention or changes in the salience of touch-related information due to the altered circumstances brought about by the pandemic. Overall, our results indicate that COVID-19 has modified human perceptions of social touch, providing evidence that the pandemic has affected individuals' perceptual and evaluative processes and highlighting the importance of considering social and environmental factors in understanding subjective experiences.
Applying Sydney Triage to Admission Risk Tool (START) to improve patient flow in emergency departments: a multicentre randomised, implementation study
Authors: Russell Saartje Berendsen , Seimon Radhika , Dixon Emma , Murphy Margaret , Vukasovic Matthew , Bohlken Nicole , Taylor Sharon , Cooper Zoe , Scruton Jennifer , Jain Nitin , Dinh Michael 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
To determine the effectiveness of applying the Sydney Triage to Admission Risk Tool (START) in conjunction with senior early assessment in different Emergency Departments (EDs).
Methods
This multicentre implementation study, conducted in two metropolitan EDs, used a convenience sample of ED patients. Patients were randomised to either the intervention or control group. Patients in the intervention group who were identified at triage as likely to require in-patient admission, based on START, were briefly assessed by the ED Consultant to confirm the likely admission and the in-patient specialist service the patient would be most likely admitted under. Bed management were then notified to begin bed finding and allocation. Patients in the control group were admitted under standard practices, although the START score was calculated by the investigator, this was only for descriptive purposes. Outcomes measured were ED length of stay and proportion of patients correctly identified as an in-patient admission by START.
Results
A total of 773 patients were evaluated using the START tool at triage across both sites (Intervention group n = 355 and control group n = 418 patients). The intervention group was associated with a reduced ED length of stay when compared to the control group (351 mins, interquartile range (IQR) 221.0–565.0 mins versus 383 mins, IQR 229.25–580.0 mins; p = 0.85). When stratified into admitted and discharged patients, similar results were seen.
Conclusion
In this extension of the START model of care implementation study in two metropolitan EDs, START, when used in conjunction with senior early assessment was associated with some reduced ED length of stay.
Composition-rheology relationships of polymer composite-type precursors
Authors: Grover Caitlin A. , Bernal Cindy Bonilla , Sargin Irmak , Beckman Scott P. , Gozen B. Arda 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Considering their simplicity, processibility, and tunable rheological properties, polymer composite-type precursors hold exceptional promise in the processing of polymers, ceramics, metals, and their composites. This large variety of precursors used in many different applications cover a large compositional space with dramatically varying rheological properties. Understanding how precursor composition influences their rheological properties is a key need towards streamlining the design and implementation of these precursors. With regard to this design advancement, this study elucidates the composition-rheology relationships of graphene-poly(ethylene) oxide (PEO) composite inks as a sample polymer composite-type precursor. To this end, shear and extensional rheology of numerous compositions were studied across a wide compositional space, which varied graphene concentration, total solid concentration, and binder molecular weight. These studies showed that composition greatly affected various rheological parameters, such as the overall presence of yielding behavior. Specifically, this study illustrated the influence of (i) binder structure, (ii) total solid loading, and (iii) binder-filler interactions on ink rheology. Extensional rheology was studied to examine how relaxation behaviors were dependent on composition and explicate how relaxation behaviors coincide with responses to shear forces. In tandem, our results illuminate significant composition-rheology relationships in polymer composite-type precursors.
ER Calcium Depletion as a Key Driver for Impaired ER-to-Mitochondria Calcium Transfer and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Wolfram Syndrome
Authors: Liiv Mailis , Vaarmann Annika , Kuum Malle , Gupta-Blixt Ruby , Janickova Lucia , Hodurova Zuzana , Cagalinec Michal , Zeb Akbar , Choubey Vinay , Hickey Miriam A. , Safiulina Dzamilja , Yi-Long Huang , Gogichaisvili Nana , Mandel Merle , Plaas Mario , Vasar Eero , Loncke Jens , Vervliet Tim , Tsai Ting-Fen , Bultynck Geert , Veksler Vladimir , Kaasik Allen 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Wolfram syndrome (WS) is a rare genetic disease caused by mutations in the WFS1 or CISD2 gene. A primary defect in WS involves poor ER Ca2+ handling, but how this disturbance leads to the disease is not known. The current study, performed in primary isolated neurons, the most affected and disease-relevant cells, involving both WS genes, explains how the disturbed ER Ca2+ handling compromises mitochondrial function and affects neuronal health. Loss of ER Ca2+ content in the axons of the WFS1- or CISD2-deficient neurons is associated with lower IP3R-mediated Ca2+ transfer from ER to mitochondria and decreased mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake. In turn, reduction in mitochondrial Ca2+ content inhibits mitochondrial ATP production leading to an increased axoplasmic NADH/NAD+ ratio. The resulting bioenergetic deficit and reductive stress compromise the health of the neurons. Our work also identifies pharmacological targets and compounds that restore Ca2+ homeostasis, enhance mitochondrial function and improve neuronal function.
Xerostomia care in palliative patients: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Coelho Adriana , Marques Andréa , Neves Teresa , Moreira Isabel , Rocha Ana , Gomes Sara , Costa Tatiana , Parola Vitor 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background Oral problems are very common in palliative patients and have a huge impact on the quality of life of patients and families. A common complication in these patients and one of the most prevalent and significant problems is xerostomia. Xerostomia influences the taste and tolerance of some foods impacting the appetite and the ability to talk and social interaction, inducing distress. In this context, healthcare professionals should promote oral care to relieve and control symptoms to comfort palliative patients. This study aims to map the literature on how patients receiving palliative care are treated for xerostomia.
Methods Scoping review will be carried out according to Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. A set of relevant electronic databases and grey literature will be searched. This scoping review will consider any quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods study and systematic review designs for inclusion, focusing on how palliative care patients are treated for xerostomia.
Conclusion This scoping review will be the first to map evidence on xerostomia in palliative patients, specifically how to diagnose and treat these patients. Moreover, the review will also take a wide variety of healthcare settings, interventions and their characteristics, and study designs into account.
Evaluating the Scenario of Urban Blue-Green Space in Tezpur Town of Assam using Geo-Technical Approach
Authors: Hazarika Archita , Saikia Jyoti , Saikia Sailajananda 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Urban blue-green space (UBGS) is considered an effective way to mitigate Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects. UBGS not only cools the actual space but also influences the surrounding areas, this phenomenon is termed as urban blue-green space cooling effect. The intensity and density of cooling of the UBGS are one of vital issues of its cooling effects which can play a vital role for urban planners and designers to deal with UHI effects. The present study tries to anatomize the UBGS of urban Tezpur with the help of geo-technology based on the years 1993 and 2023. Land Surface Temperature (LST) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were taken into consideration for the ascertainment of UBGS and UHI. The correlation between LST and NDVI was determined with the aid of Simple Regression analysis. The NDVI values for the years 1993 and 2023 are − 0.32 to 0.70 and − 0.44 and 0.50 respectively. The LST values of the town for the year 1993 are 28.76 to 20.17 and for 2023 the LST value is 29.47 to 20.36. The NDWI value indicates that the water index increases in the water bodies from the year 1993 to 2023
A short course of antibiotics selects for persistent resistance in the human gut
Authors: Yaffe Eitan , Dethlefsen Les , Patankar Arati , Gui Chen , Holmes Susan , Relman David 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Understanding the relationship between antibiotic use and the evolution of antimicrobial resistance is vital for effective antibiotic stewardship, yet animal models and in vitro experiments poorly replicate real-world conditions. To elucidate how resistance evolves in vivo, we exposed 60 human subjects to ciprofloxacin and used longitudinal stool samples and a new computational method to assemble genomes for 5665 populations of commensal bacterial species within subjects. Analysis of 2.27M polymorphic sequence variants revealed 513 populations that underwent selective sweeps. We found convergent evolution focused on DNA gyrase and evidence of dispersed selective pressure at other genomic loci. Nearly 10% of susceptible bacterial populations evolved towards resistance through sweeps that involved mutations in a specific amino acid in gyrase. Evolution towards resistance was predicted by population abundances before and during the exposure. 89% of gyrase sweeps and the majority of all sweeps persisted more than 10 weeks. This work quantifies the direct relationship between antibiotic usage and the evolution of resistance within the gut communities of individual human hosts.
Dynamic decision making in predatory pursuit of mice
Authors: Wang Jincheng , Zhang Yueting , Lv Songyan , Pang Ruiqi , Zhang Yanjie , Liu Xue , Deng Qiyue , Zhou Yi 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Most animals must reserve their limited intelligence for the most important situations, such as predation and escape, in order to have a better chance of survival. As a highly sequentially programmed behavior driven by innate desire, one of the most challenging parts of predation is how the predator can pursue and capture an escaping prey that is also running for its own survival. This requires the predator to synthesize environmental and prey information to make dynamic decisions in real time to guide appropriate behavior. However, it is still largely unclear whether and how mice can cope with such challenge. Here, we developed a real-time interactive platform to study the pursuit behavior during predation in rodents. An artificial prey was magnetically controlled by a closed-loop system that attempts to escape an approaching predator (e.g., a hungry mouse) in real time. By recording the time costs, trajectories and other parameters of both predator and prey, we found that not only were the mice able to complete predation tasks of varying difficulty, but that they could also improve their predation efficiency over trials, mainly due to the improvements in the pursuit phase. Further investigation revealed that the increase in pursuit performance may not entirely achieved by physical improvement, but rather by optimization of velocity control as well as a change of navigation strategy. In conclusion, this study reveals that mice are capable of making dynamic decisions during predatory pursuit, and the transition from novice to veteran can be used to study the biological mechanisms of dynamic decision making in mice.
Public Libraries to Promote Public Health and Wellbeing: A cross-sectional study of community-dwelling adults
Authors: Karki Manisha , Asmar Marie Line El , Sasco Eva Riboli , El-Osta Austen 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Purpose of research
To explore the potential of libraries as community hubs to promote mental and physical health and wellbeing.
Design
Cross-sectional online survey and interview-based study with community-dwelling adults and library staff.
Methods
We analysed data from 605 respondents using a 14-item electronic survey and conducted interviews with 12 library users and staff to gauge perceptions. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to identify key trends and emergent themes.
Results
Libraries remain popular and are considered a'safe place' by members of the community, irrespective of whether they are frequent users of services. Library users' lack of awareness of community-facing services could act as a hurdle to improving community health and wellbeing. Targeted engagement with residents is needed to increase awareness of libraries' services, including community interventions to help tackle loneliness and inequalities in digital and health literacy. Library staff often did not feel involved in important decision-making. Various barriers, drivers and practical recommendations were identified to leverage libraries as hubs to promote community health and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Libraries already offer a variety of resources that either directly or indirectly support the health and wellbeing of community-dwelling adults and young people, but public awareness of these services is limited. As we navigate postpandemic recovery, libraries can serve as platforms for community engagement, fostering resilience, mental health support, and reducing social isolation. Recognising libraries' untapped potential can lead to healthier communities and improved wellbeing.
Development of MAS-derived wheat genotypes with high GPC, PHST and rust resistance
Authors: Jan Irfat , kumar kuldeep , Kumar Anuj , Gautam Tinku , Singh Rakhi , Prasad Pramod , Kumar Sachin , Sharma Pradeep Kumar , Balyan Harindra Singh , Gupta Pushpendra Kumar 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Improved wheat lines earlier developed by us using marker-assisted selection (MAS) were used for pyramiding of genes/QTL for resistance to all the three rusts, high grain protein content (GPC) and pre-harvest sprouting tolerance (PHST). SSR, SCAR, and KASP markers were used for foreground selection for five generations (F1 to F5) generations leading to production of improved lines carrying eight genes for resistance to the three rusts (Lr19/Sr25+Lr34+Yr10+Lr24/Sr24+Sr2+Yr36), a high GPC gene (Gpc-B1) and a PHST QTL (Qphs.dpivic-4A.2). A set of F7 lines containing targeted genes for all these traits in homozygous condition were selected and evaluated in replicated trials. Under artificial epiphytotic conditions, the pyramided lines were also tested against 15 pathotypes of three rusts and were found to be resistant against all the pathotypes of leaf, stem and stripe rusts. These selected lines are currently being tested in varietal development trials to assess their potential for future development of newer wheat varieties.
Scheme optimization study of leakage channel exploration based on transient Rayleigh wave
Authors: Xu Zengguang , Chen Rongshao , Cao Cheng 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Numerical simulation method of finite element is used to study the Rayleigh wave response of underground leakage channel under different Rayleigh wave speeds. By calculating a series of finite element models with different depths of seepage channels and different offset distances and channel spacing, the influence of changes in channel spacing and offset distance on the characteristic signals of the Rayleigh wave response is obtained in the actual detection process. It is summarized that the optimal choice of channel spacing in the detection process is 1m, and the offset distance is 7m when the leakage location is 10m or less, and the relationship equation between the leakage channel location and the optimal offset distance is fitted out when the leakage channel location is more than 10m, which provides the program improvement for the detection of underground leakage channels, and is verified in the engineering examples, which provides the theoretical basis and reference for the reasonable choice of the offset distance and the spacing of the channel in the engineering investigation.
GUCY2C signaling limits dopaminergic neuron vulnerability to toxic insults
Authors: Waldman Scott , Cheslow Lara , Byrne Matthew , Kopenhaver Jessica , Iacovitti Lorraine , Smeyne Richard , Snook Adam 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation within the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) are central drivers of dopaminergic (DA) neuron death in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Guanylyl cyclases, and their second messengers cyclic (c)GMP, support mitochondrial function, protecting against ROS and promoting cell survival in a number of tissues. However, the role of the guanylyl cyclase-cGMP axis in defining the vulnerability of DA neurons in the SNpc in PD remains unclear, in part due to the challenge of manipulating cGMP levels selectively in midbrain DA neurons. In that context, guanylyl cyclase C (GUCY2C), a receptor primarily expressed by intestinal epithelial cells, was discovered recently in midbrain DA neurons. Here, we demonstrate that GUCY2C promotes mitochondrial function, reducing oxidative stress and protecting DA neurons from degeneration in the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of neurodegeneration. GUCY2C is overexpressed in the SNpc in PD patients and in mice treated with MPTP, possibly reflecting a protective response to oxidative stress. Moreover, cGMP signaling protects against oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, and cell death in cultured DA neurons. These observations reveal a previously unexpected role for the GUCY2C-cGMP signaling axis in controlling mitochondrial dysfunction and toxicity in SNpc DA neurons, highlighting the therapeutic potential of targeting DA neuron GUCY2C to prevent neurodegeneration in PD.
RookieScript: Constructive Programming Learning Space for Beginners
Authors: De Silva Dilshan , Vidhanaarachchi Samitha , Siriwardana Kithmina , Gunasekara Shehan , Piyumantha Udesh , Thilakaratne Sahan 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Online programming platforms are essential for aiding beginners in learning programming. Those environments provide a systematic and valuable learning experience for novice programmers. This study presents RookieScript, a constructive programming learning space built for beginners in programming. The main obstacle for beginners to overcome is encountering compilation errors and difficulty understanding the compilation errors provided by most Integrated Development Environments. And novice programmers often face challenges in resolving compilation errors due to their limited knowledge. Therefore, RookieScript was developed inspired by successful coding environments like “CodeMage” and tried to address a series of drawbacks in the existing systems. RookieScript was designed mainly to provide a solution for the problems mentioned above. This web solution comes with innovative features like Error Resolution Guide - which replaces cryptic error messages with clear explanations and step-by-step solutions to fix the compilation error; Roadmaps - a customized sequence of lessons based on individual programming goals and preferences, and Code Generator - a resourceful tool with pre-defined code segments that helps novice programmers understand programming principles. This paper profoundly emphasizes the platform structure and features and how it positively affects the learning of programming beginners. By profoundly examining the relevant literature, RookieScript was developed to change the way of traditional education for novice programmers and encourage people who wish to be programming experts.
Online Spanish Medical Course for International Medical Students: Creating Online Course for peer-by-peer Medical Spanish Education
Authors: Martinez Juan Carlos , Fernandez Amado Estrada , Bieber Christine , Orellana Priscilla , Wheeler EmiliAnne , Fuentes-Rosales Juan Carlos 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

As of July 1st, 2021, the US Hispanic/Latinx community is estimated at 62.6 million, making up 18.9% of the population. Despite federal regulations requiring access to medical interpreters, clinicians often resort to alternative translation methods, increasing the risk of errors. Medical Spanish education lacks standardization in US medical schools, and information on curricula provided by International Medical Schools (IMGs) is limited. We aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of virtual, peer-led Medical Spanish education for an international medical school cohort. The course consisted of 10 weekly one-hour lectures via Zoom. From 2022 to 2023, three cohorts successfully completed the course. Through realistic clinical scenarios, students practiced and reinforced their clinical knowledge in Spanish. The final exam involved a 20-minute patient encounter on Zoom, with the instructor acting as the patient and the student as the physician. Performance evaluation followed a standardized checklist. Each question was worth 3 points, with a total of 63 potential points. The passing score ratio was set at 2, equivalent to 66.7%, calculated by dividing the score by 21 (the number of questions). Student’s self-reported comfort in obtaining a history and physical exam in Spanish, obtained before and after completion of the course post-comfort scores (median, 3), increased significantly compared to pre-course comfort scores (median, 0.5) - increased by an average of 2.5. This curriculum requires no prior Spanish background or exposure, providing a notable advantage. The majority of participants praised the convenient and effective online format. Despite its short duration, the course yielded significant benefits.