bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higgs-portal spin-1 dark matter with parity-violating interaction
Authors: Yamashita Kimiko
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We introduce the spin-1 U(1)X gauged field X with Z2 odd dark parity to evade the current strong constraints on kinetic mixing. Then, X becomes stable and a candidate for the dark matter. The lowest mass dimension of interaction is six, and the type is the Higgs portal. Two types of dim-6 operators are introduced. We consider the freeze-out dark matter scenario. With the limit of null momentum transfer, a parity odd operator is free from the direct detection constraints. Accordingly, the strong constraints on a parity even operator indicate turning on this parity odd operator to realize the dark matter relic density of the Universe. With the 1 TeV cut-off scale, our dark matter of around 400 GeV mass can explain the dark matter relic density and is allowed from the LUX-ZEPLIN experiment of the direct detection.
The prevalence and anatomy of recurrent artery of Heubner: a meta analysis with neurosurgical considerations
Authors: Osiowski Aleksander , Stolarz Kacper , Osiowski Maksymilian , Klepinowski Tomasz , Taterra Dominik
Published: October 2024

Background

The recurrent artery of Heubner (RAH) is typically the largest medial lenticulostriate branch of the anterior cerebral artery (ACA). Neurosurgical procedures such as aneurysm treatment on the anterior part of the circle of Willis can result in damage of the RAH leading to neurological deficits. The aim of this study was to identify the gaps and provide comprehensive data on the prevalence and anatomical characteristics of the RAH with neurosurgical considerations.

Methods

The major electronic databases were thoroughly searched to identify the eligible studies. The information concerning study type, geographical origin, prevalence of the RAH, course and origin of the RAH, symmetry of origin and number of RAHs in each hemisphere, and morphometric data were extracted. The PRISMA guidelines were rigorously followed throughout the study. The AQUA tool was used to evaluate the reliability of included studies.

Results

A total of 34 studies (n = 3645 hemispheres) were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis revealed that the RAH was present in 97.5% (95%CI: 95.5–98.6) of the hemispheres, originating most frequently from the A2 segment (42.2%, 95%CI: 35.0–49.7) or the ACoA-ACA junction (41.6%, 95%CI: 34.0–49.6), and coursing anteriorly (47.6%, 95%CI: 38.7–56.6) or superiorly (43.9%, 95%CI: 34.4–53.8) in relation to ACA. Almost a quarter of patients had more than one RAH, which was on average 22.82 mm (SD: 1.35, 95%CI: 20.16–25.47; I2 = 99.1%, p < 0.01) long and reached 0.76 mm (SD: 0.05, 95%CI: 0.66–0.85; I2 = 99.4%, p < 0.01) in diameter.

Conclusions

As the RAH is present in the majority of the population, it is important to be aware of the wide variations in its anatomy. This will help to prevent postoperative neurological deficits by avoiding undesirable complications during surgeries that are performed in close proximity to the anterior segment of the circle of Willis.
Challenging frontiers in neuroplastic cranial reconstruction: addressing neurosurgical wound healing complications through interdisciplinary collaboration – an observational study
Authors: Aufschnaiter-Hiessboeck Kathrin M. , Stefanits Harald , Rossmann Tobias , Aichholzer Martin , Senker Wolfgang , Rauch Philip , Wagner Helga , Hermann Philipp , Gmeiner Matthias , Gruber Andreas , Schmidt Manfred
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives

Although rare, complications like skin dehiscence and necrosis after neurosurgery pose significant challenges by increasing the risk of infections spreading to the epidural, subdural, or intracerebral spaces. This retrospective, single-center study aims to assess the prior clinical courses, neuroplastic repair, and outcomes of  patients with skin defects following cranial neurosurgical procedures, and to outline our interdisciplinary reconstructive protocol.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on cranial surgeries conducted at the Department of Neurosurgery,  spanning from 2017 to 2023. Patients with skin defects requiring the combined expertise of neurosurgery and plastic surgery for effective treatment were included. The sizes of the skin defects were measured using intraoperative photographs analyzed with the freeware ImageJ software, version 2018. All patients provided informed consent for the surgeries. If informed consent was not possible due to neurological deterioration, consent was sought from adult representatives or next of kin except for acute circumstances. All patients admitted to our hospital agree to the pseudonymized use of their medical data and tissue specimens for research purposes in their treatment contract.

Results

A cohort of 24 patients experiencing wound healing complications after neurosurgical procedures underwent a total of 29 interdisciplinary surgeries for the reconstruction of skin, dural, and bone defects.  After the neuroplastic surgery, 8 out of 24 patients (33.3%) developed surgical complications, with 6 of these requiring revision surgeries due to persistent cranial infection.  In all cases,  permanent wound closure was successfully achieved following adherence to the proposed treatment algorithm.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the necessity of an integrated neurosurgical and plastic surgical approach to effectively manage wound healing complications in a single stage surgery. Key interventions include differentiation between necrosis and gaping lesions, alongside precise management of neurosurgical issues like cerebrospinal fluid fistulas and hydrocephalus. Plastic surgical expertise in assessing the possibilities and limitations of both local and free flap surgeries is essential.
Optimal asset allocation and nonlinear return predictability from the dividend-price ratio
Authors: Ghezzi Fabrizio , Sarkar Anindo , Pedersen Thomas Quistgaard , Timmermann Allan
Published: October 2024

We study non-linear predictability of stock returns arising from the dividend-price ratio and its implications for asset allocation decisions. Using data from five countries — U.S., U.K., France, Germany and Japan — we find empirical evidence supporting non-linear and time-varying models for the equity risk premium. Building on this, we examine several model specifications that can account for non-linear return predictability, including Markov switching models, regression trees, random forests and neural networks. Although in-sample return regressions and portfolio allocation results support the use of non-linear predictability models, the out-of-sample evidence is notably weaker, highlighting the difficulty in exploiting non-linear predictability in real time.
Addressing companies’ low-carbon transition challenges requires diversified investments in environmental initiatives
Authors: Cenci Simone , Tang Samuel
Published: October 2024

The energy, utilities, industrial, and material sectors are crucial suppliers of essential goods and services, but their business operations are among the largest sources of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, companies in these sectors play a pivotal role in the low-carbon transition and face substantial stakeholder pressure to manage their transition risks and reduce their environmental impact. Here, we argue that effective responses to transition challenges require diversifying investments in adaptation and mitigation initiatives across a broad range of activities and goals. Analysing financial and nonfinancial data from a global sample of publicly traded companies, we find that those who extensively diversify their investments are better able to reduce their emissions over time. Diversification also reduces carbon pricing risk, thereby lowering exposure to transition risks, under several climate policy scenarios. Our findings provide empirical evidence that business leaders in critical sectors for the low-carbon transition should incorporate well-diversified investments in adaptation and mitigation initiatives into their sustainability strategies to manage interconnected transition challenges.
On a minimization problem of the maximum generalized eigenvalue: properties and algorithms
Authors: Nishioka Akatsuki , Toyoda Mitsuru , Tanaka Mirai , Kanno Yoshihiro
Published: October 2024

We study properties and algorithms of a minimization problem of the maximum generalized eigenvalue of symmetric-matrix-valued affine functions, which is nonsmooth and quasiconvex, and has application to eigenfrequency optimization of truss structures. We derive an explicit formula of the Clarke subdifferential of the maximum generalized eigenvalue and prove the maximum generalized eigenvalue is a pseudoconvex function, which is a subclass of a quasiconvex function, under suitable assumptions. Then, we consider smoothing methods to solve the problem. We introduce a smooth approximation of the maximum generalized eigenvalue and prove the convergence rate of the smoothing projected gradient method to a global optimal solution in the considered problem. Also, some heuristic techniques to reduce the computational costs, acceleration and inexact smoothing, are proposed and evaluated by numerical experiments.
Determination of phytochemical quality of leaves Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. and Vaccinium myrtillus L. from the polluted and non-polluted areas
Authors: Petruľová Veronika , Bačkorová Miriam
Published: October 2024

Elemental composition of Vaccinium myrtillus L. and Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. has not been determined yet in detail. In our study, a scanning electron microscope coupled with an energy dispersive X-ray analyser (SEM–EDX) ensured the determination of 15 elements in the leaves of Vaccinium sp. growing in the control and the mine polluted locality. The soil elemental analyses showed a higher content of 11 elements from all determined in the mine-influenced samples. Elemental analyses of the control leaves showed the highest contents of all determined elements for V. vitis-idaea, except for carbon. The impact of pollution on V. myrtillus leaves caused significant increase in oxygen, natrium, magnesium, sulphur, chlorine, potassium and calcium content. The contents of carbon, nitrogen and silicon decreased substantially. In the case of the V. vitis-idaea leaves, the content of most of elements reduced, and in the case of six elements, even significantly. A significant increase was recorded for carbon, iron and copper. The effect of the environment has influenced the production of phytochemicals, assessed by HPLC–DAD. The production of flavonoids (hyperoside, isoquercetin) increased significantly in V. myrtillus and decreased to a detectable minimum in V. vitis-idaea. In the case of chlorogenic acid, arbutin and hydroquinone, their levels changed minimally in V. myrtillus, but significantly more in the V. vitis-idaea leaves. The importance of elemental analyses lies in detecting the presence of toxic elements or their harmful concentrations in plants that are the source of food or dietary supplements.
Toward a theory on programmer’s block inspired by writer’s block
Authors: Schantong Belinda , Siegmund Norbert , Siegmund Janet
Published: October 2024

Context

Programmer’s block, akin to writer’s block, is a phenomenon where capable programmers struggle to create code. Despite anecdotal evidence, no scientific studies have explored the relationship between programmer’s block and writer’s block.

Objective

The primary objective of this study is to study the presence of blocks during programming and their potential causes.

Method

We conducted semi-structured interviews with experienced programmers to capture their processes, the problems they face, and potential causes. Subsequently, we analyzed the responses through the lens of writing.

Results

We found that among the programmer’s problems during programming, several display strong similarities to writer’s block. Moreover, when investigating possible causes of such blocks, we found a strong relationship between programming and writing activities as well as typical writing strategies employed by programmers.

Conclusions

Strong similarities between programming and writing challenges, processes, and strategies confirm the existence of programmer’s block with similar causes to writer’s block. Thus, strategies from writing used to resolve blocks should be applicable in programming, helping developers to overcome phases of being stuck. Research at the intersection of both areas could lead to productivity gains through reduced developer downtimes.
Analytical solutions for steady groundwater flow through aquifer folds and faults
Authors: Bakker Mark , Anderson Erik
Published: October 2024

Deformations of the earth’s crust create tortuous paths for groundwater flow, altering pressure distributions and flow lines. A solution for steady groundwater flow through a deformed aquifer is derived by applying the singular point method using a rectangular reference plane. The singular point method is used to develop conformal mappings with complex geometries using basic principles of groundwater mechanics including superposition, the method of images, and stagnation point analysis. The derived solution contains three parameters that can be chosen to simulate flow through a variety of deformed aquifers, including flow through a normal fault with a $$\hbox {90}^\circ $$

90
∘

dip, flow through a fold, and flow through a relay ramp.
Polysaccharide, Conjugate, and mRNA-based Vaccines are Immunogenic in Patients with Netherton Syndrome
Authors: Nouwen Anouk E. M. , Zaeck Luca M. , Schappin Renske , Geers Daryl , Gommers Lennert , Bogers Susanne , Dik Willem A. , Pasmans Suzanne G. M. A. , GeurtsvanKessel Corine H. , de Vries Rory D. , Dalm Virgil A. S. H.
Published: October 2024

Background

Netherton syndrome (NS) is a rare, severe genetic skin disorder, currently classified as an inborn error of immunity (IEI) due to previously reported immune dysregulation. We recently reported the results of an immunological evaluation showing no evidence for a relevant B- and/or T-cell mediated immunodeficiency, but immune responses after vaccination were not evaluated in that study. Therefore, we evaluated immune responses to three vaccine platforms in adult NS patients to further investigate the presence of a clinically relevant B- and/or T-cell immunodeficiency.

Methods

Vaccination responses in eight adult NS patients were assessed in a cross-sectional study performed between January and August 2022. Clinical patient data were retrospectively retrieved from electronic patient files. Immune responses to a polysaccharide Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccine (PPV23) and conjugate Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine (ActHiB) were measured. SARS-CoV-2-specific (functional) antibody and T-cell responses following booster vaccination with an mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine were compared to controls.

Results

None of the included patients suffered from recurrent and/or severe infections that could be attributed to a B- and/or T-cell immunodeficiency. ActHiB induced immune responses were normal in 7/7 NS patients. PPV23 induced responses were absent in 1/7, diminished in 2/7, and normal in 4/7 patients. Levels of SARS-CoV-2-specific binding and neutralizing antibodies after mRNA-based COVID-19 booster vaccination in NS patients were comparable to controls. SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4 + T-cell responses were detectable in all NS patients. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2-specific CD8 + T-cell responses were detectable in only 2/6 NS patients. T-cell responses to a positive control antigen pool were comparable to controls.

Conclusions

Vaccine-induced immune responses were detectable after polysaccharide, conjugate and mRNA-based vaccination in our cohort of NS patients. A spectrum of responsiveness to vaccine challenges was found, with the ranges of vaccine responses overlapping those demonstrated in healthy control populations.
Intergenerational Domination
Authors: Hemmerich Luca
Published: October 2024

The political and ethical status of future generations is commonly discussed within conceptual frameworks like intergenerational justice, rights, or welfare. In this article, I argue that the concept of domination can provide a novel perspective on the philosophy of intergenerational relations. To that end, I first advance and defend a (slightly) revised conception of domination, drawing on Philip Pettit’s neorepublican view. Second, I establish a prima facie case for the existence of intergenerational domination and address four major objections to the claim that the present generation dominates future generations: the non-concurrency challenge, a modified version of the non-identity problem, the inescapability objection, and the problem of historical domination. Finally, I explore some implications and conceptual advantages of the framework of intergenerational domination. As a theoretical foundation of a comprehensive analysis of structures of domination, the proposed framework may contribute to identifying and reducing domination within and across generations.
Static and dynamic aspects of the principle of virtual work
Authors: Jarzębowska Elżbieta , Grzesikiewicz Wiesław , Makowski Michał , Zbiciak Artur , Rutczyńska-Wdowiak Katarzyna
Published: October 2024

The paper presents a detailed analysis of the principle of virtual work in its statics and dynamics aspects. Special attention is paid to not exact formulation and interpretation of mechanical system motion equations based upon this principle, what is presented quite often in text books. The general form of the principle of virtual work and variational formulations of the problems in statics are presented and analyzed. Additionally, the dynamic implications of the principle of virtual work and dynamics problem formulation of a system subjected to scleronomic constraints are detailed. The basis for the formulation is the dynamic implication of the principle of virtual work that specifies the relation between the constraint reactions and the body accelerations. This relation takes the form of the variation inequality. As the result, the Gauss principle which determines the body acceleration vector is presented. Furthermore, a description of impact formulation, based upon the Carnot model, caused by the constraints is provided. The theoretical development is illustrated with examples of applications of the principle of virtual work.
Long-term trends of publications in journal of neuro-oncology: a bibliographic study of a core journal in the field of neuro-oncology
Authors: Maroufi S. Farzad , Maroufi S. Parmis , Fallahi Mohammad Sadegh , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The Journal of Neuro-Oncology (JNO), established in 1983, plays a key role in publishing research on brain and spinal cord tumors. This study examines JNO’s publication trends, focusing on country and gender representation to highlight its global impact.

Methods

Statistical analyses were conducted using R. Gender of the first authors was predicted using a gender-guesser, and author affiliations were used to determine publication countries. We introduced a novel Country-Related Diversity (CRD) index to assess the JNO’s representativeness, comparing a country’s JNO publications to its overall neurosurgical output. An index value of 1 indicates proportional representation.

Results

The JNO corpus, spanning from 1983 to 2024, comprises 8,154 documents with an average document age of 14.4 years. The average citation count per document is 28.71, with a rate of 2.16 citations per document per year. JNO’s scientific output has grown significantly, peaking at 397 articles in 2011, with a long-term annual growth rate of 3.7%. The keyword analysis highlights “glioblastoma” as the most frequent term, reflecting the journal’s neuro-oncological focus. Geographically, the U.S. led with 2,535 articles (40.1%), followed by China and Germany. International collaboration rose steadily, with multi-country publications increasing from 4.76% in 1983 to 20.98% in 2024. Analyzing contributions from different countries showed a converging CRD index toward 1 (P < 0.01), with U.S. and non-U.S. countries trending similarly. Upper-middle-income countries displayed fluctuating CRD patterns, whereas lower-middle-income countries lagged behind. Authorship analysis showed an increasing trend in co-authorship (P < 0.01), with the average number of authors per paper reaching 10.4 by 2024. Gender representation revealed a growing number of female first and senior authors, although males still dominate. By 2024, 32.9% of first authors and 21.6% of senior authors were female, signaling a gradual trend toward gender parity (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The CRD index offers a standardized measure of country-specific research representation in the JNO. The convergence towards 1 reflects balanced international representation. JNO publication also reflects a trend toward gender equity, with a notable rise in female first authors, enhancing global research inclusivity.
Grass species and mycorrhizal fungi improved aggregate stability of compacted and vegetated soils
Authors: Li Minghui , Chen Xun Wen , Leung Anthony Kwan
Published: October 2024

Aim

Compaction of slope soils can substantially hinder root penetration of grass cover, which may be alleviated through the colonisation of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and aggregate stabilisation. We investigated aggregate stabilisation and breakdown mechanisms in compacted dense mycorrhizal soils.

Methods

A pot-culture experiment with seven treatments (five replicates per treatment) was implemented. In a local decomposed granitic soil, we inoculated two grass species (Chrysopogon ziaanioides and Cynodon dactylon) with AM fungi. We used loose soil to grow C. dactylon to compare it with compacted dense soil, as well as pots without a plant and/or fungal inoculation for comparison. After 20 weeks of cultivation, we measured root and AM fungal characteristics, soil organic matter and aggregate properties by dry sieving, wet sieving and Le Bissonnais methods.

Results

Compaction led to the formation of macro-aggregates (> 0.25 mm) but had a negative influence on the aggregate stability. The fungal inoculation increased polysaccharide production and aggregate stability in the compacted soil vegetated with C. dactylon. The inoculated C. ziaanioides showed a similar level of aggregate stability as the inoculated C. dactylon, but the uninoculated group demonstrated higher aggregate stability compared with the inoculated group owing to root decomposition. The aggregate stability against various breakdown mechanisms was related to the established aggregate hierarchy and qualitative organic matter inputs.

Conclusion

Soil organic matter supplied by grass species together with the mediation of AM fungal hyphae played a crucial role in the systemic enhancement of aggregate stability in the compacted soil.
On the application of Gaussian graphical models to paired data problems
Authors: Ranciati Saverio , Roverato Alberto
Published: October 2024

Gaussian graphical models are nowadays commonly applied to the comparison of groups sharing the same variables, by jointly learning their independence structures. We consider the case where there are exactly two dependent groups and the association structure is represented by a family of coloured Gaussian graphical models suited to deal with paired data problems. To learn the two dependent graphs, together with their across-graph association structure, we implement a fused graphical lasso penalty. We carry out a comprehensive analysis of this approach, with special attention to the role played by some relevant submodel classes. In this way, we provide a broad set of tools for the application of Gaussian graphical models to paired data problems. These include results useful for the specification of penalty values in order to obtain a path of lasso solutions and an ADMM algorithm that solves the fused graphical lasso optimization problem. Finally, we carry out a simulation study to compare our method with the traditional graphical lasso, and present an application of our method to cancer genomics where it is of interest to compare cancer cells with a control sample from histologically normal tissues adjacent to the tumor. All the methods described in this article are implemented in the package available at https://github.com/savranciati/pdglasso.
Removal of Pesticides from Water by Adsorption on Activated Carbon Prepared from Invasive Plants
Authors: Motúzová Tereza , Koutník Ivan , Vráblová Martina
Published: October 2024

Pesticide pollution of surface water is a serious global problem. This research was focused on the monitoring of pesticides in surface waters and their subsequent removal using adsorption on activated carbon (AC). Based on the monitoring, four pesticides—acetamiprid, diethyltoluamide, thiacloprid and thiamethoxam—occurred in higher concentrations in all sampling points. Invasive plants occurring near monitored water bodies, Reynoutria japonica (RJ) and Impatiens glandulifera (IG) were used for the preparation of activated carbon with an activating agent (H3PO4 and NaOH) using microwave pyrolysis. The prepared AC was subsequently used for adsorption of the above-mentioned pesticides. The prepared AC was characterized by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Individual AC types showed different effects for different pesticides. The maximum adsorption capacity calculated from the Langmuir model was 18.30 mg g−1 for thiacloprid on H3PO4-activated AC from I. glandulifera.
Arbeitgeberattraktivität durch betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung: Eine Strategie für das Employer Branding?
Authors: Arnold Jessica , Kotte Silja
Published: October 2024

Angesichts des Arbeitskräftemangels investieren Unternehmen zunehmend in Employer Branding, um sich als Arbeitgeber auf dem Bewerbermarkt positiv zu positionieren. Gleichzeitig steigt das Bewusstsein für die Bedeutung von Gesundheit bei Einzelnen und Unternehmen. Kann daher Betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung (BGF) und die Kommunikation darüber die Arbeitgeberattraktivität erhöhen? In einer szenario-basierten experimentellen Online-Studie beurteilten die Studienteilnehmenden aus der Bewerber:innen-Rolle die Attraktivität eines Unternehmens auf Basis eines Unternehmensflyers mit vs. ohne Informationen über BGF-Angebote. BGF-Kommunikation hat einen positiven Effekt auf die Arbeitgeberattraktivität, unabhängig von Geschlecht, Bildungsstand und Alter. Die BGF-Kommunikation sollte vor allem authentisch, umfassend und transparent sein und etablierte Online-Kanäle nutzen.
Identification of Barriers and Facilitators to the Use of a New Pain Assessment Mobile Health Application by Family Carers of People with Dementia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hussein Areej , Moullin Joanna , Stafford Andrew , Hughes Jeffery , Quested Eleanor
Published: October 2024

This study identified potential barriers and facilitators to the implementation of a medical device in the form of a mobile health (mHealth) application, (app) called PainChek®, by family carers of individuals with dementia in the Australian community setting. Focus groups and a phone interview took place with family carers and healthcare professionals. Data were analysed thematically. 6 family carers and 8 healthcare professionals participated across 2 focus groups and 1 phone interview. Themes related to the user, innovation/PainChek®, and contextual factors were identified. Barriers to use included age, physical limitations, cost, technical issues, misinterpretation of how PainChek® works, and influence of family. Facilitators included a willingness to use mHealth Apps and previous experience. Some themes acted as both barriers and facilitators depending on the situation such as the healthcare team's acceptance. Targeted interventions and support strategies, leveraging facilitators are essential to overcome barriers related to user, intervention, and context and to enhance successful PainChek® implementation, thereby improving pain management in individuals with dementia. Future research is recommended to develop effective implementation strategies to utilise the facilitators and overcome the barriers to improve the implementation of PainChek®.
A Quick-Scan Methodology Incorporating Local Knowledge for Climate Risk and Vulnerability Assessments Applied in Kampala
Authors: Polgár Ana M. , Carton Linda J.
Published: October 2024

A surge in publications on climate change vulnerability and risk assessments in recent years reflects the escalating impacts of climate change. These assessments are crucial for improving climate change adaptation planning. City-level integrated climate risk and vulnerability assessments (CRVAs) are increasingly relevant, particularly for African cities facing heightened vulnerability from local climate impacts and urbanization. There are several practical challenges in the context of Sub-Saharan African cities: 1) research capacity limitations; 2) the heterogeneity of settlements and their infrastructure; 3) data availability and accessibility; and 4) inclusion of local knowledge in the data collection process. This study aims to address these challenges through an integrated quick-scan CRVA approach. The methodology was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic to be conducted on distance with local partners, and tested through an instrumental case study in Kampala, Uganda. The case of Kampala shows the execution and resulting scan, with mapped districts where climate threats are urgent, summarized in so-called ‘neighbourhood profiles’. The method description and its implementation demonstrate that this form of CRVA methodology holds the potential to: (a) expedite city-wide climate assessments; (b) provide a filter procedure and a classification of diverse needs across districts; (c) bring together ‘insider knowledge’ and ‘outsider expertise’ and (d) establish knowledge collaborations across distances and scales. In just a few months’ time, the project team navigated in both informal community systems and formal institutional frameworks. Preferable to the alternative of complete absence of vulnerability assessments, the described ‘quick-scan method’ may be worthwhile for other African cities.
Assessing the Effects of Dasatinib on Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells
Authors: Heinrichs David P. , Maldonado Vitali V. , Ardana I. Kade K. , Porter Ryan M. , Samsonraj Rebekah M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Progressive aging, or senescence, of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) is a major obstacle faced when trying to culture potent stem cells for use in therapy. Senescent cells are irreversibly nondividing cells that cease performing critical functional effects. Elimination of senescent cells using biochemical means, such as the use of senolytic drugs like dasatinib, may be useful in retaining the viable and proliferating populations of the cells.

Methods

An in vitro approach was used to investigate the effect of dasatinib on phenotypic, genotypic, and immunomodulatory functionality of osteogenic and adipogenic differentiated MSCs. Replicative senescence was achieved through multiple sub-culturing in vitro, then senescent and non-senescent cultures were treated with a standard dosage of dasatinib. MSCs were then differentiated into osteogenic, adipogenic or chondrogenic cultures using conditioned media to be tested for the three criteria being investigated.

Results

Significant changes were observed in these criteria, indicated by evidence gathered from proliferation and indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase activity assays. Phenotypic results of dasatinib were shown to reduce the population of senescent MSCs while allowing non-senescent MSCs to continue differentiating and proliferating without interference from senescent cells. Genotypic results showed no change to upregulation in markers associated with osteogenic and adipogenic cells when exposed to dasatinib. Indoleamine Dioxygenase activity showed insignificant differences in cells exposed to dasatinib versus control groups, providing evidence against compromised cellular immune function.

Conclusion

This investigation provides insight into how dasatinib effects MSCs functional ability and provides a better understanding of the function of senolytic agents.
An Equine-Assisted Intervention Versus Non-Manualized Psychotherapy for Youth in a Residential Childcare Facility
Authors: Berg Erika L. , Gooch Mike , Feldmann Laura M. , Knight Bettye , Verlaine Jess , Bach-Gorman Amber
Published: October 2024

Characteristics of individuals with disruptive behavior disorders often include elevated externalizing behaviors such as impulsivity, defiance of authority and antagonism of social norms. Evidence shows that adolescents diagnosed with these types of disorders are particularly challenging to treat; however, therapies incorporating horses have shown some success. We examined the impact of an equine-assisted intervention compared to a non-manualized cognitive behavioral therapy in youth between 12- and 18-years old living in a residential childcare facility. Upon admittance, youth were administered three assessments: the Youth Self-Report, Adolescent Psychopathology Scale, and Basic Empathy Scale. Youth scoring in the clinical range for at least one externalizing subscale of the Youth Self-Report were assigned to equine-assisted intervention (EQI; N = 23) or non-manualized cognitive behavioral therapy (NM-CBT; N = 20) groups. Each group received a total of 7 h of treatment per week (three 2-hr group sessions and one 1-hr individual session) for 24 weeks. After 24 weeks of treatment, the same three assessments were administered a second time. There were no significant differences between the NM-CBT and EQI groups in the amount of change between assessments. A significant time effect was found for total externalizing behaviors in the Adolescent Psychopathology Scale and Youth Self-Report such that these measures were within the normal range after 24 weeks of treatment for participants in both groups.
Genotype and Plant Biostimulant Treatments Influence Tuber Size and Quality of Potato Grown in the Pedoclimatic Conditions in Northern Apennines in Italy
Authors: Cortiello Marina , Milc Justyna , Sanfelici Alessio , Martini Serena , Tagliazucchi Davide , Caccialupi Giovanni , Ben Hassine Mortadha , Giovanardi Davide , Francia Enrico , Caradonia Federica
Published: October 2024

In marginal mountain areas, farm management presents challenges, particularly the sustainable improvement of yield and quality. To ensure this agronomic result, it is crucial to select appropriate varieties and apply sustainable agricultural practices, such as the use of plant biostimulants. To address these challenges a two-year field study was conducted using three potato varieties (Désirée, Kennebec and Spunta) in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. These varieties were treated with two plant biostimulants: one based on hydrolyzed proteins from animal epithelial tissue (Fitostim®) and another based on seaweed extracts (FitostimAlga®). Agronomic and biochemical traits were used to evaluate the development of plants, yield and tubers quality. Significant interactions among factors were found, resulting in higher or lower efficiency of the plant biostimulant treatment depending on weather conditions and potato genotype. Furthermore, results demonstrated that plant biostimulant treatments increased the leaf chlorophyll content (+ 11.5%), the number of leaves per plant (+ 13.3%) and the height of potato plants (+ 6.5%), while no effects were observed on yield. The Désirée variety achieved the highest yield (0.54 kg plant-1), whereas Kennebec was shown as the best variety to use for production of French fries due to a lower tuber quantity of reducing sugars, which were reduced also by plant biostimulants treatment (-18%). Moreover, Spunta tubers had the highest content of polyphenols, and the best value was achieved by Spunta variety treated with Fitostim® alga in the second year. Our finding have proven that plant biostimulant treatments can increase the quality of potato tuber without compromising yield.
Impacts of climate change–simulated flooding and drought events–on terrestrial invertebrates (Enchytraeids and Collembolans)
Authors: Bicho Rita C. , Scott-Fordsmand Janeck J. , Amorim Mónica J. B.
Published: October 2024

Impacts of soil moisture levels from 10% to 100% on two soil invertebrates.

E. crypticus and F. Candida survived at extreme scenarios (10% and 100%).

For both species, reproduction was severely reduced in extreme scenarios.

Higher adaptative phenotypic plasticity for F. Candida compared to E. crypticus.

Knowledge on impacts of climate change on soil invertebrate communities is scarce. Amongst the biggest challenges are the increase in temperature and arid regions, while at the same time, in other parts of the planet, extreme precipitation events and flooding occur. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impacts of drought and flooding in soil invertebrates. Enchytraeus crypticus and Folsomia candida, model ecotoxicology test-species (OECD) were used to assess performance (survival, reproduction, size) in LUFA 2.2 soil moistened to 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% of the soil water holding capacity (WHC). Overall, both species had high tolerance for drought and flooding scenarios, with survival threshold for E. crypticus being between 10% and 90% moisture and for F. candida being between 10% and 100% moisture. Reproduction decreased from moisture ⩽ 30% and >70% moisture. In drought there was a decrease on adults’ size, for both species from ⩽ 30% moisture. The morphological adaptations observed support evidence of adaptative phenotypic plasticity for both species, but highest for F. candida. A redistribution of soil invertebrate species can be expected to occur, this under the present and future climate change scenarios, with new and more tolerant species to prevail in different habitats. This will impact not only soil biodiversity structure, but also its function.
Developing a pipeline for identification, characterization and molecular editing of cis-regulatory elements: a case study in potato
Authors: Wan Min , Xie Handan , Guo Hongwei , Jing Shenglin , Zeng Deying , Li Bing , Zhu Bo , Zeng Zixian
Published: October 2024

Crop breeding requires a balance of tradeoffs among key agronomic traits caused by gene pleiotropy. The molecular manipulation of genes can effectively improve target traits, but this may not reduce gene pleiotropy, potentially leading to undesirable traits or even lethal conditions. However, molecular editing of cis-regulatory elements (CREs) of target genes may facilitate the dissection of gene pleiotropy to fine-tune gene expression. In this study, we developed a pipeline, in potato, which employs open chromatin to predict candidate CREs, along with both transient and genetic assays to validate the function of CREs and CRISPR/Cas9 to edit candidate CREs. We used StCDF1 as an example, a key gene for potato tuberization and identified a 288 bp-core promoter region, which showed photoperiodic inducibility. A homozygous CRISPR/Cas9-editing line was established, with two deletions in the core promoter, which displayed a reduced expression level, resulting in late tuberization under both long-day and short-day conditions. This pipeline provides an alternative pathway to improve a specific trait with limited downside on other phenotypes.
Intergenerational transmission of fertility: evidence from China's population control policies
Authors: Yin Yongkun
Published: October 2024

This paper examines how the number of siblings that parents have affects their fertility decisions in China. The population control policies in China affected individuals unequally across birth cohorts and regions. The exogenous variation in fertility is used to identify the effect of the number of siblings on the number of children for the next generation. The results show that a couple tends to have 0.034–0.068 more children (2.3–4.6% of the average number of children) and is 2.4–6.8 percentage points more likely to violate the One-Child Policy (9.3–27.1% of the violation rate) if the husband and the wife have one more sibling each. Moreover, the effect on fertility is stronger for couples in lower-income provinces where the fertility rate is higher and in rural areas where the One-Child Policy was enforced less strictly. Finally, I show that the ideal family size of the husband and wife is an important channel through which the number of siblings affects fertility. I also find that the effect of people's number of siblings has a larger effect on their ideal number of children than on their actual number of children, suggesting that they are constrained from achieving their fertility ideals.
The Effect of COVID-19 Phobia, Pain Severity, Sleep Quality, Physical Activity, and Fatigue Levels and Quality of Life on Academic Achievement: A Path Analysis
Authors: Depreli Özde , Mani Ece , Kırmızıgil Berkiye , Angın Ender , Çetintaş Erdoğan
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Following the declaration of the pandemic, students’ education has to be done at a distance due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This study evaluated the association of university students’ COVID-19 phobia, pain severity, sleep quality, physical activity, fatigue levels, and quality of life on students’ achievement.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted by including 353 students from the university faculty of health sciences. The Pain Quality Assessment Scale was used to assess pain, the Fatigue Severity Scale to evaluate fatigue, the COVID-19 Phobia Scale to assess fear of disease, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form to evaluate physical activity level, and the Jenkins Sleep Scale to assess sleep quality, The Short Form-36 to determine the quality of life, and Online Learning Systems Acceptance Scale to evaluate satisfaction with distance education. Multiple linear regression and path analysis were conducted to identify factors associated with academic achievement.

Results

It was found that age (B = 0.045; P = 0.040), BMI (B = −0.200; P = 0.004), and physical (B = 0.128; P = 0.008), psychological (B = 0.057; P = 0.012) and social (B = 0.189; P = 0.018) domains of quality of life were associated with the level of achievement.

Conclusions

Precautions must be taken to improve students’ academic achievement and quality of life in preparing for the future against infectious and epidemic diseases.
Association Between Radiation Risk Perception Related to the Fukushima Nuclear Disaster and Traumatic Stress Symptoms Induced by Media Reports of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Authors: Terui Toshihiro , Kunii Yasuto , Kawasaki Yukiko , Kakamu Takeyasu , Hidaka Tomoo , Yabe Hirooki , Miura Itaru
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The Russian–Ukrainian War of 2022 (RUW-2022) was accompanied by the subsequent risk of accidents at a nuclear power plant in Ukraine. This study investigated posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms related to media reports of an attack on a Ukrainian nuclear power plant during the RUW-2022 among victims of the Fukushima nuclear disaster and revealed their association with radiation risk perception (RRP) of the accident.

Methods

This cross-sectional study targeted 1193 residents of Naraha Town in Fukushima Prefecture. PTS symptoms were measured using the Japanese version of the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R). Univariate and multivariate analyses explored the association between IES-R scores and background factors, particularly RRP.

Results

Participants with higher RRP showed significantly higher IES-R scores; furthermore, the proportion of disruption because of radiation anxiety was significantly larger among higher RRP residents. Radiation anxiety mediated the association between RRP and PTS symptoms (total IES-R score and sub-item of intrusion).

Conclusions

People with higher RRP in Fukushima may continue to be at risk of persistent, unwanted PTS symptoms due to future nuclear crises. Therefore, mental health practitioners need to continue providing support in affected areas for a longer period than anticipated. Moreover, a population-based approach to cope with these stressors from media reports is essential.
Infant-carrying mechanisms in a natural environment: the case of Qashqai nomad
Authors: Anvari Zohreh , Berillon Gilles , D'Août Kristiaan , Grimaud-Hervé Dominique , Rezaei Mahtab
Published: October 2024

Infant carrying and more generally load carrying may impact bipedal locomotion and thus the energy cost of the daily activities, in living people but also in our ancestors. In order to improve our knowledge of infant carrying strategies we investigate the biomechanics of infant carrying in a non-mechanised group. The Qashqai are nomadic people who still carry loads and infants habitually without any daily assistance in varied natural environments. Our analysis focuses on the sagittal kinematics using a high-speed camera (joint angles, speed, position of the centre of mass) and kinetics (ground reaction forces and displacement of the centre of mass) using a six-degree of freedom force plate. We assessed the unloaded and loaded (infant) walking of 26 Qashqai women, living in the Fars province (Iran). The results demonstrate that different mechanisms of walking exist that are related to the mode of carrying and the weight of the infant, by which step length, walking speed and the lower limb angles are not affected. The displacement of the total centre of mass remains unchanged. This supports the hypothesis that the Qashqai have developed mechanisms of load carrying that limit the increase in energy consumption. This could be related to the usual high level of daily activity.
Reputation-surveillance model of mate guarding: community size and religious veiling
Authors: Pazhoohi Farid
Published: October 2024

The mate guarding theory of conservative clothing posits that veiling reduces women's physical allure and sexual attractiveness, thereby diminishing men's attraction towards them and deterring potential rivals for a woman's partner. This theory argues that the importance of veiling is influenced by ecological factors in a way that it is of higher importance to control women's sexuality in harsher environments to secure paternal investment. A prediction of this theory is that the importance of veiling should be influenced by community size, where individuals’ reputations, specifically men's, might have different weightings, and their perceived sense of controlling a partner's activity may differ. Using pre-existing data from seven countries encompassing over 9000 individuals, the current study explored the association of town size and importance of veiling for women. Results showed a U-shaped relationship where in small towns and large cities, individuals, specifically men, give more importance to the veiling of women. This finding not only has multiple implications in terms of the effect of community size on male policing behaviours of women and sexual restrictions, but it also might point to a wider relationship regarding the association of community size and moral values.