bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internally heated and fully compressible convection: Flow morphology and scaling laws
Authors: Powers Whitney T. , Anders Evan H. , Brown Benjamin P.
Published: April 2024

In stars and planets natural processes heat convective flows in the bulk of a convective region rather than at hard boundaries. By characterizing how convective dynamics are determined by the strength of an internal heating source we can gain insight into the processes driving astrophysical convection. Internally heated convection has been studied extensively in incompressible fluids, but the effects of stratification and compressibility have not been examined in detail. In this work, we study fully compressible convection driven by a spatially uniform heating source in two-dimensional (2D) and 3D Cartesian, hydrodynamic simulations. We use a fixed temperature upper boundary condition which results in a system that is internally heated in the bulk and cooled at the top. We find that the flow speed, as measured by the Mach number, and turbulence, as measured by the Reynolds number, can be independently controlled by separately varying the characteristic temperature gradient from internal heating and the diffusivities. Two-dimensional simulations at a fixed Mach number (flow speed) demonstrate consistent power at low wave number as diffusivities are decreased. We observe convection where the velocity distribution is skewed towards cold, fast downflows and that the flow speed is related to the length scale and entropy gradient of the upper boundary where the downflows are driven. We additionally find a heat transport scaling law which is consistent with prior incompressible work.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
White Dwarfs in Dwarf Spheroidal Galaxies: A New Class of Compact-Dark-Matter Detectors
Authors: Smirnov Juri , Goobar Ariel , Linden Tim , Mörtsell Edvard
Published: April 2024

Recent surveys have discovered a population of faint supernovae, known as Ca-rich gap transients, inferred to originate from explosive ignitions of white dwarfs. In addition to their unique spectra and luminosities, these supernovae have an unusual spatial distribution and are predominantly found at large distances from their presumed host galaxies. We show that the locations of Ca-rich gap transients are well matched to the distribution of dwarf spheroidal galaxies surrounding large galaxies, in a scenario where dark matter interactions induce thermonuclear explosions among low-mass white dwarfs that may be otherwise difficult to ignite with standard stellar or binary evolution mechanisms. A plausible candidate to explain the observed event rate are primordial black holes with masses above 1021 grams.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Classifying causal structures: Ascertaining when classical correlations are constrained by inequalities
Authors: Khanna Shashaank , Ansanelli Marina Maciel , Pusey Matthew F. , Wolfe Elie
Published: April 2024

The classical causal relations between a set of variables, some observed and some latent, can induce both equality constraints (typically conditional independencies) as well as inequality constraints (Instrumental and Bell inequalities being prototypical examples) on their compatible distribution over the observed variables. Enumerating a causal structure's implied inequality constraints is generally far more difficult than enumerating its equalities. Furthermore, only inequality constraints ever admit violation by quantum correlations. For both those reasons, it is important to classify causal scenarios into those which impose inequality constraints versus those which do not. Here we develop methods for detecting such scenarios by appealing to d separation, e separation, and incompatible supports. Many (perhaps all?) scenarios with exclusively equality constraints can be detected via a condition articulated by Henson, Lal, and Pusey (HLP). Considering all scenarios with up to four observed variables, which number in the thousands, we are able to resolve all but three causal scenarios, providing evidence that the HLP condition is, in fact, exhaustive.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Modelling the power threshold and optimum thermal deformation of indirectly liquid-nitrogen cryo-cooled Si monochromators
Authors: Khosroabadi Hossein , Alianelli Lucia , Sanchez-Navarro Pablo , Peach Andrew , Sawhney Kawal
Published: April 2024

Maximizing the performance of crystal monochromators is a key aspect in the design of beamline optics for diffraction-limited synchrotron sources. Temperature and deformation of cryo-cooled crystals, illuminated by high-power beams of X-rays, can be estimated with a purely analytical model. The analysis is based on the thermal properties of cryo-cooled silicon crystals and the cooling geometry. Deformation amplitudes can be obtained, quickly and reliably. In this article the concept of threshold power conditions is introduced and defined analytically. The contribution of parameters such as liquid-nitrogen cooling efficiency, thermal contact conductance and interface contact area of the crystal with the cooling base is evaluated. The optimal crystal illumination and the base temperature are inferred, which help minimize the optics deformation. The model has been examined using finite-element analysis studies performed for several beamlines of the Diamond-II upgrade.
Iterative Bragg peak removal on X-ray absorption spectra with automatic intensity correction
Authors: Shimogawa Ryuichi , Marcella Nicholas , O'Connor Christopher R. , Kim Taek-Seung , Reece Christian , Lubomirsky Igor , Frenkel Anatoly I.
Published: April 2024

This study introduces a novel iterative Bragg peak removal with automatic intensity correction (IBR-AIC) methodology for X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), specifically addressing the challenge of Bragg peak interference in the analysis of crystalline materials. The approach integrates experimental adjustments and sophisticated post-processing, including an iterative algorithm for robust calculation of the scaling factor of the absorption coefficients and efficient elimination of the Bragg peaks, a common obstacle in accurately interpreting XAS data, particularly in crystalline samples. The method was thoroughly evaluated on dilute catalysts and thin films, with fluorescence mode and large-angle rotation. The results underscore the technique's effectiveness, adaptability and substantial potential in improving the precision of XAS data analysis. While demonstrating significant promise, the method does have limitations related to signal-to-noise ratio sensitivity and the necessity for meticulous angle selection during experimentation. Overall, IBR-AIC represents a significant advancement in XAS, offering a pragmatic solution to Bragg peak contamination challenges, thereby expanding the applications of XAS in understanding complex materials under diverse experimental conditions.
Integration of work and life roles: an interpretive study of women entrepreneurs in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Tahir Rizwan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Utilizing boundary theory as a guiding framework, this study aims to explore facets of work–life balance (WLB) that women entrepreneurs experience in the context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It sheds light on strategies women entrepreneurs use to manage and shape boundaries between their personal and professional lives.

Design/methodology/approach

In this qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews with 50 women entrepreneurs to gain a deeper understanding of their WLB challenges.

Findings

Integration is a boundary management approach used by most women in our sample, facilitated by the thin work–life boundary inferable from their entrepreneurial careers. Integration has all the hallmarks of being imposed on women entrepreneurs because of family role challenges and societal expectations, on top of their entrepreneurial obligations. Women are reactors; they shoulder societal, family and entrepreneurial roles while having little control over events and circumstances.

Practical implications

Boundary theory suggests two roles must be interconnected to coexist successfully. Women entrepreneurs can benefit from the synergy between their personal and professional lives. As their roles tend to be more complex, it is essential to consider the consolidation of both spheres as an ongoing process to maximize their benefits.

Originality/value

Today’s independent forms of working are contingent on flexible work arrangements, work intensification and wireless communication. Understanding how women entrepreneurs find balance amid boundarylessness adds to our limited knowledge of people in comparable environments.
Cross-cultural arbitrage through acculturation: the opportunity lens of transnational entrepreneurs
Authors: Clark Daniel R. , Li Dan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to integrate entrepreneurship theories and acculturation perspectives into a unified lens to understand opportunity development by transnational entrepreneurs (TNEs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a conceptual method, considering how acculturation strategies of TNEs influence cross-cultural arbitrage.

Findings

We develop six propositions that define how acculturation strategies relate to different levels of cultural embeddedness of transnational entrepreneurs and ultimately influence the process by which the entrepreneur engages in cross-cultural arbitrage.

Originality/value

We are one of the first to integrate the sociology of immigrants with entrepreneurship to better understand how TNEs engage in cross-cultural arbitrage.
Attitude oscillation suppression control of a XK-I spherical robot
Authors: Lin Rui , Wang Qiguan , Yang Xin , Huo Jianwen
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In complex environments, a spherical robot has great application value. When the pendulum spherical robot is stopped or disturbed, there will be a periodic oscillation. This situation will seriously affect the stability of the spherical robot. Therefore, this paper aims to propose a control method based on backstepping and disturbance observers for oscillation suppression.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes the mechanism of oscillation. The oscillation model of the spherical robot is constructed and the relationship between the oscillation and the internal structure of the sphere is analyzed. Based on the oscillation model, the authors design the oscillation suppression control of the spherical robot using the backstepping method. At the same time, a disturbance observer is added to suppress the disturbance.

Findings

It is found that the control system based on backstepping and disturbance observer is simple and efficient for nonlinear models. Compared with the PID controller commonly used in engineering, this control method has a better control effect.

Practical implications

The proposed method can provide a reliable and effective stability scheme for spherical robots. The problem of instability in real motion is solved.

Originality/value

In this paper, the oscillation model of a spherical robot is innovatively constructed. Second, a new backstepping control method combined with a disturbance observer for the spherical robot is proposed to suppress the oscillation.
A study on comparison of economic and scientific performances of BRICS countries
Authors: Tutar Hasan , Eryüzlü Hakan , Erdem Ahmet Tuncay , Sarkhanov Teymur
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the correlation between economic development and scientific knowledge production indicators in the BRICS countries from 2000 to 2020, highlighting the importance of human resources, natural resources, and innovation. Addressing a gap in the existing literature, this study aims to contribute significantly to understanding this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a descriptive statistical approach, this study utilizes GDP and per capita income as economic indicators and scientific data from WoS and SCOPUS databases, focusing on scientific document production and citations per document.

Findings

The analysis reveals a strong correlation between economic development and scientific performance within the BRICS nations during the specified period. It emphasizes the interdependence of economic progress and scientific prowess, underscoring that they cannot be considered independently.

Research limitations/implications

However, limitations exist, notably the reliance on specific databases that might not cover the entire scientific output and the inability to capture all factors influencing economic and scientific development.

Originality/value

Understanding this interdependence has crucial originality. Policymakers and stakeholders in BRICS countries can leverage these insights to prioritize investments in human capital development and scientific research. This approach can foster sustainable economic growth by reducing reliance on natural resources.
Knowledge sharing behavior of service sector’s employees to attain sustainable development goals
Authors: Mahajan Vibha , Sharma Jyoti , Singh Abhilasha , Bresciani Stefano , Alam Gazi Mahabubul
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to get an understanding regarding the clusters of middle management employees on the basis of their knowledge sharing behaviour. Designing knowledge sharing behaviors with a distinct focus for a specified group of employees can be an effective and productive one. As it is often argued that the cluster of employees labeled as “middle management” is the key player for knowledge sharing behaviors – a subject of this study that intends to contribute to management strategy to enhance organizational effectiveness and subsequently to its knowledge sharing phenomona.

Design/methodology/approach

Cluster analysis was adopted as key tool as a part of quantitative method to accumulate the data from 597 employees who are working within the middle management of service sector located in the union territory of India named Jammu and Kashmir.

Findings

Three distinct segments namely – “knowledge sharing adepts (KSA),” “knowledge sharing scrupulous (KSC)” and “knowledge sharing servitudes (KSE)” as the prime domains of knowledge sharing behavior are identified.

Research limitations/implications

To draw a narrow focus, the study was limited to the service sector of a union territory in India, hence the findings may not be generalized. Furthermore, as knowledge sharing behavior of individuals is always evolved out of social and historical practices, findings of this cross-sectional study should ideally be needed to be updated time to time through further research.

Practical implications

Cluster dynamicism of knowledge sharing behavior based on the differentiated and specified group of employee functions distinctly which in turn increases the organizational productivity with a particular focus on the mid-management of the service sector – a key managerial implication of this study.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research paper is the first of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir adding value to the international literature in the area of knowledge sharing behaviors of service sector.
The influence of spokesperson choice and product newness on consumer purchase intention
Authors: Liu Fu , Wei Haiying , Sun Zhaoyang , Zhu Zhenzhong , Chen Haipeng (Allan)
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of the virtual spokesperson type on the consumers' preference for new products. To meet the consumer needs of Generation Z, virtual spokespeople have become new assistants in brand marketing. However, how virtual spokespersons drive consumer preference for new products is minimally understood.

Design/methodology/approach

This research conducts three experiments to investigate the influence of virtual spokesperson type on consumers' preference for new products.

Findings

The research shows that, for radically new products, competent virtual spokespersons improve consumers' perception of self-efficacy and thus consumers' preference; for incrementally new products, warm virtual spokespersons improve consumers' perception of social connection and thus consumers' willingness to buy.

Originality/value

This study broadens research on brand spokespersons and virtual spokespersons. This research also enriches and expands research on the consideration of new product types in brand spokespersons.
Towards the conceptualization and the operationalization of the construct of talent management
Authors: Sandeepanie Madduma Hewage Ruchira , Gamage Prasadini , Perera Gamage Dinoka Nimali , Sajeewani Thuduwage Lasanthika
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to afford a comprehensive conceptualization and operationalization of the construct of talent management through an inclusive exploration of conceptual clarifications for existing confusions while developing a complete measuring instrument.

Design/methodology/approach

The archival method was adopted together with a systematic review based on Khan et al.’s (2003) five steps of systematic literature review. The systematic review has encircled published research articles between 1982 and 2023 in the human resource management (HRM) arena. A total of 130 articles were initially scrutinized, and 106 were systematically reviewed to conceptualize, operationalize and explore clarifications for confusions and instrument development for talent management.

Findings

This study explored conceptual clarifications for existing confusions towards talent management while recognizing definitions that come under the main philosophical schools for the underlying concept of talent. A novel practical definition has been established for talent management while recognizing dimensions, and then certain elements. A comprehensive instrument has been developed to measure talent management.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to instrument development in measuring talent management; nevertheless, there is an enormous scope for using the instrument to empirically measure talent management through organizational and employees perspectives linked to diverse global contexts in future studies.

Originality/value

The developed comprehensive instrument is a vibrant contribution to future investigations related to empirically measuring talent management associated with organizational and employee perspectives related to diverse global contexts in winning “war for talent.” This study endows a significant input to the whole frame of HRM knowledge as it resolves existing conceptual ambiguities towards talent management while defining and operationalizing it.
Building tourism SMEs' business resilience through adaptive capability, supply chain collaboration and strategic human resource
Authors: Seow Ai Na , Choong Yuen Onn , Low Mei Peng , Ismail Nur Hafizah , Choong Chee Keong
Published: April 2024

Small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) play a significant role in the global economy, particularly, in tourism and hospitality. However, they face challenges due to their vulnerability to external disruptions. A research model was proposed to enhance SME resilience in tourism through supply chain collaboration, strategic human resource and adaptive capability. Drawing on Dynamic Capability Theory, a total of seven hypotheses were presented. The data collection were conducted in Malaysia. There were 210 SME owners/managers participated in the survey. Data were analysed using Smart PLS software version 4. Results suggest that addressing business collaboration and human resource development are critical factors in developing capabilities that foster business resilience in tourism SMEs. The study addresses the dearth of theoretical and practical research on tourism SMEs. While calling SMEs for more attention to developing resilient businesses, this study serves as insights for disaster planning to withstand potential future shocks.
Suicide risk screening and evaluation among patients accessing VHA services and identified as being newly homeless
Authors: Holliday Ryan , Hostetter Trisha , Brenner Lisa A. , Bahraini Nazanin , Tsai Jack
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate universal suicide risk screening and evaluation processes among newly homeless Veterans.

Study Setting

Not applicable.

Study Design

Examination of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) using newly homeless patients' health record data in Calendar Year 2021.

Data Collection

Not applicable.

Data Source

Health record data.

Principal Findings

Most patients received suicide risk screening and/or evaluation in the year prior to and/or following homeless identification (n = 49,505; 87.4%). Smaller percentages of patients were screened and/or evaluated in close proximity to identification (n = 7358; 16.0%), 1–30 days prior to identification (n = 12,840; 39.6%), or 1–30 days following identification (n = 14,263; 34.3%). Common settings for screening included primary care, emergency and urgent care, and mental health services. Of positive screens (i.e., potentially elevated risk for suicide), 72.6% had a Comprehensive Suicide Risk Evaluation (CSRE) completed in a timely manner (i.e., same day or within 24 h). Age, race, and sex were largely unrelated to screening and/or evaluation.

Conclusions

Although many newly identified homeless patients were screened and/or evaluated for suicide risk, approximately 13% were not screened; and 27% of positive screens did not receive a timely CSRE. Continued efforts are warranted to facilitate suicide risk identification to ensure homeless patients have access to evidence‐based interventions.
Clinical characteristics of children with Borrelia‐related peripheral facial palsy and utility of cerebrospinal fluid testing
Authors: Orfanos Ioannis , Chytilová Veronika , Eklund Erik A.
Published: April 2024

Aim

To describe the aetiology and clinical characteristics of acute peripheral facial palsy (PFP) in children and investigate the utility of the European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) criteria for diagnosing Borrelia‐related PFP (BPFP) based on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria based on serology.

Methods

We retrospectively identified children aged <18 years diagnosed with acute PFP between 2014 and 2020. We used the EFNS criteria as the gold standard and the CDC criteria for diagnosing BPFP.

Results

Out of 257 children with PFP, 93 (36%) fulfilled the EFNS or CDC criteria for BPFP. We found a discrepancy between the EFNS criteria with CSF testing and the CDC without CSF testing in 27 (14%) of the 190 children with available data. Of the 37 children with PFP and ≥2 symptoms of fever, fatigue, nausea/vomiting or meningeal symptoms, 31 (84%) fulfilled the EFNS criteria for BPFP.

Conclusion

Borrelia is a common cause of PFF in children, and its prevalence is higher in children with systemic symptoms. Also, CSF testing did not have decisive management implications in most cases. Therefore, clinical evaluation and Borrelia serology could be the initial steps in the diagnosis of PFP in children.
Letter: Use of liver stiffness measurement to identify liver cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis D
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhang Shaoqiu , Zhang Zhiyi , Wu Chao , Huang Rui
Published: April 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Sandmann et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17878 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17962
Letter: The emerging role of novel capsule endoscopy systems in gastroenterology with specific reference to small bowel Crohn's disease. Authors' reply
Authors: Thwaites Phoebe A. , Gibson Peter R.
Published: April 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Thwaites et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17944 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17946
Review article: A practical approach to persistent gastrointestinal symptoms in inflammatory bowel disease in remission
Authors: Aliu Arta , Bosch Daan H. C. A. , Keszthelyi Daniel , Rezazadeh Ardabili Ashkan , Colombel Jean‐Frederic , Sawyer Rachel , Törnblom Hans , Hart Ailsa , Jonkers Daisy M. A. E. , Pierik Marieke J. , Mujagic Zlatan
Published: April 2024

Background

Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms are prevalent in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), even when endoscopic remission is reached. These symptoms can have profound negative effects on the quality of life of affected patients and can be difficult to treat. They may be caused by IBD‐related complications or comorbid disorders, but they can also be explained by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)‐like symptoms.

Aims

To provide a practical step‐by‐step guide to diagnose and treat persistent gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with IBD in remission via a personalised approach.

Methods

We scrutinised relevant literature on causes, diagnostics and treatment of persistent gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, abdominal distension, diarrhoea, constipation and faecal incontinence) in patients with IBD in remission.

Results

A graphical practical guide for several steps in diagnosing, identifying potential triggers and adequate treatment of persistent gastrointestinal symptoms in IBD in remission is provided based on supporting literature. The first part of this review focuses on the diagnostic and treatment approaches for potential IBD‐related complications and comorbidities. The second part describes the approach to IBS‐like symptoms in IBD in remission.

Conclusions

Persistent gastrointestinal symptoms in IBD in remission can be traced back to potential pathophysiological mechanisms in individual patients and can be treated adequately. For both IBD‐related complications and comorbidities and IBS‐like symptoms in IBD in remission, pharmacological, dietary, lifestyle or psychological treatments can be effective. A systematic and personalised approach is required to reduce the burden for patients, healthcare systems, and society.
Parental Satisfaction With Child Welfare Services in Norway
Authors: Degail Claire , Kaiser Sabine , Jakobsen Reidar , Martinussen Monica
Published: April 2024

This study aims to examine parents' satisfaction with Norwegian child welfare services (CWS) and factors associated with parents' satisfaction. Different factors were included in the analysis, such as characteristics of the contact with CWS, and service aspects, as evaluated by parents (accessibility, information quality, workers' skills and user participation). Data were collected from 412 parents in 20 different municipalities. Over half of the participants (56%) reported that they overall received the needed help to a great or very great extent, while 60% were satisfied to a great extent or more. The majority of parents (76%) reported that their case manager was courteous and respectful, while nearly half of the parents (47%) stated that the help they received made it easier for them to provide care. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that workers' skills, user participation and information quality were associated with both satisfaction with outcomes of CWS and overall satisfaction, while duration of contact was also associated with satisfaction with outcomes of CWS. These results highlight the importance of achieving and maintaining high workers' skills, information quality and user participation in CWS.
First genomic snapshots of recolonising lineages following a devastating earthquake
Authors: Vaux Felix , Parvizi Elahe , Duffy Grant A. , Dutoit Ludovic , Craw Dave , Waters Jonathan M. , Fraser Ceridwen I.
Published: April 2024

Large‐scale disturbance events provide ideal opportunities to directly study recolonisation processes in natural environments, via the removal of competitors and the formation of newly vacant habitat. A high magnitude earthquake in central New Zealand in 2016 created major ecological disturbance, with coastal tectonic uplift of up to ~ 6 m extirpating vast swathes of intertidal organisms. One of the affected species was Durvillaea antarctica (rimurapa or southern bull kelp), which is an important habitat‐forming intertidal macroalga capable of long‐distance dispersal. Across the complex fault system with varying amounts of uplift, the species was either locally extirpated or heavily reduced in abundance. We hypothesised that neutral priority effects and chance dispersal from other populations would influence which lineages would establish. We sampled individuals of D. antarctica across the uplift zone immediately after the earthquake in 2016 and then repeatedly sampled new recruits in the same areas between 2017 and 2020, using genotyping‐by‐sequencing to provide ‘before' and ‘after' genomic comparisons. Our results revealed strong geographic clustering but little evidence of new lineages establishing at disturbed sites, although populations at uplifted sites remain at remarkably low densities. We infer that recolonisation has thus far primarily originated from refugial, remnant patches within the uplift zone. To complement the phylogeographic analysis, we estimated oceanographic connectivity among the uplift zone sample locations. The connectivity modelling estimated that northbound dispersal of D. antarctica was more likely, but we have not yet detected southern genotypes in the recolonised populations. As the ongoing recolonisation process transitions from an ecological to an evolutionary timescale, change remains possible. This study provides the first genomic ‘snapshots' of a natural recolonisation process following a large‐scale ecological disturbance event, and ongoing research has the potential to reveal important insight into both micro‐ and macroevolutionary processes.
The role of mesenchymal stem cells in early programming of adipose tissue in the offspring of women with obesity
Authors: Bellalta Sofía , Plösch Torsten , Faas Marijke , Casanello Paola
Published: April 2024

Maternal obesity is a well‐known risk factor for developing premature obesity, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in the progeny. The development of white adipose tissue is a dynamic process that starts during prenatal life: fat depots laid down in utero are associated with the proportion of fat in children later on. How early this programming takes place is still unknown. However, recent evidence shows that mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), the embryonic adipocyte precursor cells, show signatures of the early setting of an adipogenic committed phenotype when exposed to maternal obesity. This review aims to present current findings on the cellular adaptations of MSCs from the offspring of women with obesity and how the metabolic environment of MSCs could affect the early commitment towards adipocytes. In conclusion, maternal obesity can induce early programming of fetal adipose tissue by conditioning MSCs. These cells have higher expression of adipogenic markers, altered insulin signalling and mitochondrial performance, compared to MSCs of neonates from lean pregnancies. Fetal MSCs imprinting by maternal obesity could help explain the increased risk of childhood obesity and development of further noncommunicable diseases.
Letters generated by ChatGPT: Author who?
Authors: Matsubara Shigeki
Published: April 2024

Aim

ChatGPT's role in medical writing is a topic of discussion. I experimented whether ChatGPT almost automatically generates Correspondence or Letter addressed to a “translated” article, and thereby wish to arouse discussion regarding ChatGPT use in medical writing.

Methods

I input an English article of mine into ChatGPT, tasking it with generating an English Disagreement Letter (Letter 1). Next, I tasked ChatGPT with translating the manuscript addressed to from English‐French‐Spanish‐German. Then, I once again tasked ChatGPT with generating an English Disagreement Letter addressed to a German manuscript (triplicate translated manuscript) (Letter 2).

Results

Letters 1 and 2 are readable and reasonable, shooting the point that the author (myself) felt as the weakness of the article. Letters addressed to French (single translation) and to Spanish (double translation) and longer Letters (corresponding to Letters 1 and 2) are also readable, and thus stand.

Conclusions

Solely based on this experiment, one may be able to write a letter even without understanding the meaning of the paper being addressed, let alone the language of the paper. Although this humble experiment does not conclude anything, I plea for a comprehensive discussion on the implications of these findings.
Long COVID and post‐acute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 pathogenesis and treatment: A Keystone Symposia report
Authors: Durstenfeld Matthew S. , Weiman Shannon , Holtzman Michael , Blish Catherine , Pretorius Resia , Deeks Steven G.
Published: April 2024

In 2023, the Keystone Symposia held the first international scientific conference convening research leaders investigating the pathology of post‐acute sequelae of COVID‐19 (PASC) or Long COVID, a growing and urgent public health priority. In this report, we present insights from the talks and workshops presented during this meeting and highlight key themes regarding what researchers have discovered regarding the underlying biology of PASC and directions toward future treatment. Several themes have emerged in the biology, with inflammation and other immune alterations being the most common focus, potentially related to viral persistence, latent virus reactivation, and/or tissue damage and dysfunction, especially of the endothelium, nervous system, and mitochondria. In order to develop safe and effective treatments for people with PASC, critical next steps should focus on the replication of major findings regarding potential mechanisms, disentangling pathogenic mechanisms from downstream effects, development of cellular and animal models, mechanism‐focused randomized, placebo‐controlled trials, and closer collaboration between people with lived experience, scientists, and other stakeholders. Ultimately, by learning from other post‐infectious syndromes, the knowledge gained may help not only those with PASC/Long COVID, but also those with other post‐infectious syndromes.
Osteoradionecrosis incidence in pre‐radiation teeth extractions: A prospective study
Authors: Rupe C. , Gioco G. , Massaccesi M. , Tagliaferri L. , Pastore F. , Micciché F. , Galli J. , Mele D. , Specchia M. L. , Cassano A. , Cordaro M. , Lajolo C.
Published: April 2024

Aims

To evaluate osteoradionecrosis (ORN) incidence in a cohort of patients undergoing tooth extraction (TE) before radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancers.

Methods

The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (ID‐2132) and registered at clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT04009161). TE was performed in case of signs of pericoronitis, periapical lesions, restorative impossibility, severe periodontitis. ORN was defined as exposed bone at an unhealed post‐extraction socket in the absence of oncological recurrence. The RT plans were reviewed, and each post‐extractive socket was contoured to calculate the received radiation dose.

Results

In total, 156 patients with 610 TE were enrolled. The mean follow‐up was 567 days. ORN was diagnosed in four patients (2.6% of patients and 0.7% of TE). Need for osteotomy and radiation dose at the extraction site were associated with ORN (OR for osteotomy: 21.9, 95% CI: 2.17–222.2, p = 0.009; OR for RT dose: 1.1, 95% CI: 1–1.15, p = 0.05).

Conclusions

TE appears to be a significant risk factor for ORN, particularly when osteotomy is required, and post‐extraction sockets receive a high RT dosage. This study proposes a decision‐making algorithm for TE and outlines a straightforward surgical protocol.
Understanding exosomes: Part 2—Emerging leaders in regenerative medicine
Authors: Miron Richard J. , Estrin Nathan E. , Sculean Anton , Zhang Yufeng
Published: April 2024

Exosomes are the smallest subset of extracellular signaling vesicles secreted by most cells with the ability to communicate with other tissues and cell types over long distances. Their use in regenerative medicine has gained tremendous momentum recently due to their ability to be utilized as therapeutic options for a wide array of diseases/conditions. Over 5000 publications are currently being published yearly on this topic, and this number is only expected to dramatically increase as novel therapeutic strategies continue to be developed. Today exosomes have been applied in numerous contexts including neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer's disease, central nervous system, depression, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, post‐traumatic stress disorders, traumatic brain injury, peripheral nerve injury), damaged organs (heart, kidney, liver, stroke, myocardial infarctions, myocardial infarctions, ovaries), degenerative processes (atherosclerosis, diabetes, hematology disorders, musculoskeletal degeneration, osteoradionecrosis, respiratory disease), infectious diseases (COVID‐19, hepatitis), regenerative procedures (antiaging, bone regeneration, cartilage/joint regeneration, osteoarthritis, cutaneous wounds, dental regeneration, dermatology/skin regeneration, erectile dysfunction, hair regrowth, intervertebral disc repair, spinal cord injury, vascular regeneration), and cancer therapy (breast, colorectal, gastric cancer and osteosarcomas), immune function (allergy, autoimmune disorders, immune regulation, inflammatory diseases, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis). This scoping review is a first of its kind aimed at summarizing the extensive regenerative potential of exosomes over a broad range of diseases and disorders.
A milestone in the pursuit of gender equality: Predicting first women presidents in U.S. higher education institutions, 1980–2018
Authors: D’Apice Hannah K. , Song Jieun , Wotipka Christine Min
Published: April 2024

While women’s higher education enrollments and graduation rates have outpaced those of men in the United States and most countries around the world, women are less frequently included in academic leadership roles, including the higher education presidency. This paper asks what predicts whether and when a higher education institution has its first woman president, conceptualizing this event as a milestone of gender equality. We use a national probability sample of 234 four‐year U.S. universities and colleges, constructing a novel longitudinal dataset from 1980 to 2018. Employing event history analysis, we examine the potential mechanisms associated with when an institution has its first woman president over time. Our findings suggest that the demographic diversity of faculty and students, gender‐ and diversity‐supportive structures, and the broader environment in which institutions are embedded predict the likelihood that a woman will advance to the level of the presidency. In particular, the presence of gender studies programs and a higher proportion of women in state legislatures increase the likelihood that an institution will have its first woman president. At a time of growing challenges facing U.S. higher education, coupled with greater opportunities from having more diverse students and faculty, universities and colleges increasingly recognize the benefit of women leaders.
Spliceosomal complex components are critical for adjusting the C:N balance during high‐light acclimation
Authors: Araguirang Gali Estopare , Venn Benedikt , Kelber Nadja‐Magdalena , Feil Regina , Lunn John , Kleine Tatjana , Leister Dario , Mühlhaus Timo , Richter Andreas S.
Published: April 2024

Plant acclimation to an ever‐changing environment is decisive for growth, reproduction, and survival. Light availability limits biomass production on both ends of the intensity spectrum. Therefore, the adjustment of plant metabolism is central to high‐light (HL) acclimation, and the accumulation of photoprotective anthocyanins is commonly observed. However, mechanisms and factors regulating the HL acclimation response are less clear. Two Arabidopsis mutants of spliceosome components exhibiting a pronounced anthocyanin overaccumulation in HL were isolated from a forward genetic screen for new factors crucial for plant acclimation. Time‐resolved physiological, transcriptome, and metabolome analysis revealed a vital function of the spliceosome components for rapidly adjusting gene expression and metabolism. Deficiency of INCREASED LEVEL OF POLYPLOIDY1 (ILP1), NTC‐RELATED PROTEIN1 (NTR1), and PLEIOTROPIC REGULATORY LOCUS1 (PRL1) resulted in a marked overaccumulation of carbohydrates and strongly diminished amino acid biosynthesis in HL. While not generally limited in N‐assimilation, ilp1, ntr1, and prl1 showed higher glutamate levels and reduced amino acid biosynthesis in HL. The comprehensive analysis reveals a function of the spliceosome components in the conditional regulation of the carbon:nitrogen balance and the accumulation of anthocyanins during HL acclimation. The importance of gene expression, metabolic regulation, and re‐direction of carbon towards anthocyanin biosynthesis for HL acclimation are discussed.
Short‐term outcomes of 43 dogs treated with arthroscopic suturing for meniscal tears associated with cranial cruciate ligament disease
Authors: Rocheleau Patrick J. , Robson Alexandria , Bird Sarah D. , Pickersgill Megan M. , Holz Kali A.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To describe short‐term outcomes and complications in dogs receiving meniscal suturing and concurrent tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) with or without augmentation with an extracapsular suture.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Forty‐three client‐owned dogs submitted for cruciate ligament disease.

Methods

Dogs were included if meniscal suturing was performed during or after a TPLO procedure. Criteria included an unstable medial meniscus without evidence of a tear, a caudal vertical longitudinal tear with or without displacement, or if a bucket‐handle tear was debrided and the remaining rim was unstable. Stifle stabilization was performed by either a standard TPLO or an augmented TPLO (TPLO + internal brace [IB]). Outcome measures included physical examination findings, radiographs, subjective gait examination, Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) scores, and second‐look arthroscopy.

Results

Forty‐four meniscal repairs were performed in 43 dogs. Five types of meniscal tears were treated employing eight suture materials. Complications were documented in 15 cases (34%). The stabilization technique had a significant impact on the outcome (p = .049): TPLO + IB had a 93.3% success rate and the success rate was 71.4% in the TPLO‐only group.

Conclusion

Five types of meniscal pathology were addressed successfully in the study, indicating that currently accepted criteria for meniscal suturing in dogs may be overly conservative. The majority of complications were not related to the meniscal suturing itself and did not compromise the outcome. The stifle stabilization technique had an impact on outcome.

Clinical significance

The authors found arthroscopic meniscal suturing to be practical and successful in this patient population. Postoperative stifle stability had an impact on successful treatment.
Novel 3D reciprocal space visualization of strain relaxation in InSb on GaAs substrates
Authors: Blaikie T. , Shi Y. , Tam M. C. , Moreno B. D. , Wasilewski Z. R.
Published: April 2024

This study introduces the reciprocal space polar visualization (RSPV) method, a novel approach for visualizing x-ray diffraction-based reciprocal space data. RSPV allows for the precise separation of tilt and strain, facilitating their individual analysis. InSb was grown by molecular beam epitaxy on two (001) GaAs substrates—one with no misorientation (sample A) and one with 2° surface misorientation from the (001) planes (sample B). There is a substantial lattice mismatch with the substrate, and this results in the generation of defects within the InSb layer during growth. To demonstrate RSPV’s effectiveness, a comprehensive comparison of surface morphology, dislocation density, strain, and tilt was conducted. RSPV revealed previously unobserved features of the 004 InSb Bragg peak, partially explained by the presence of threading dislocations and oriented abrupt steps. Surface morphologies examined by an atomic force microscope revealed that sample B had significantly lower root mean square roughness. Independent estimates of threading dislocation density (TDD) using x-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron channelling contrast imaging confirmed that sample B exhibited a significantly lower TDD than sample A. XRD methods further revealed unequal amounts of α- and β-type threading dislocations in both samples, contributing to an anisotropic Bragg peak. RSPV is shown to be a robust method for exploring 3D reciprocal space in any crystal, demonstrating that growing InSb on misoriented GaAs produced a higher-quality crystal compared to an on-orientation substrate.
Effects of duty cycle on passive acoustic monitoring metrics: The case of blue whale songs
Authors: Michel Mathilde , Torterotot Maëlle , Royer Jean-Yves , Samaran Flore
Published: April 2024

Long-term fixed passive acoustic monitoring of cetacean populations is a logistical and technological challenge, often limited by the battery capacity of the autonomous recorders. Depending on the research scope and target species, temporal subsampling of the data may become necessary to extend the deployment period. This study explores the effects of different duty cycles on metrics that describe patterns of seasonal presence, call type richness, and daily call rate of three blue whale acoustics populations in the Southern Indian Ocean. Detections of blue whale calls from continuous acoustic data were subsampled with three different duty cycles of 50%, 33%, and 25% within listening periods ranging from 1 min to 6 h. Results show that reducing the percentage of recording time reduces the accuracy of the observed seasonal patterns as well as the estimation of daily call rate and call type richness. For a specific duty cycle, short listening periods (5–30 min) are preferred to longer listening periods (1–6 h). The effects of subsampling are greater the lower the species' vocal activity or the shorter their periods of presence. These results emphasize the importance of selecting a subsampling scheme adapted to the target species.
Effective Stretching Positions of the Piriformis Muscle Evaluated Using Shear Wave Elastography
Authors: Itsuda Hikari , Yagi Masahide , Yanase Ko , Umehara Jun , Mukai Hiyu , Ichihashi Noriaki
Published: April 2024

Context: Piriformis syndrome is often associated with muscle spasms and shortening of the piriformis muscle (PM). Physical therapy, including static stretching of the PM, is one of the treatments for this syndrome. However, the effective stretching position of the PM is unclear in vivo. This study aimed to determine the effective stretching positions of the PM using ultrasonic shear wave elastography. Design: Observational study. Methods: Twenty-one healthy young men (22.7 [2.4] y) participated in this study. The shear elastic modulus of the PM was measured at 12 stretching positions using shear wave elastography. Three of the 12 positions were tested with maximum internal rotation at 0°, 20°, or 40° hip adduction in 90° hip flexion. Nine of the 12 positions were tested with maximum external rotation at positions combined with 3 hip-flexion angles (70°, 90°, and 110°) and 3 hip-adduction angles (0°, 20°, and 40°). Results: The shear elastic modulus of the PM was significantly higher in the order of 40°, 20°, and 0° of adduction and higher in external rotation than in internal rotation. The shear elastic modulus of the PM was significantly greater in combined 110° hip flexion and 40° adduction with maximum external rotation than in all other positions. Conclusion: This study revealed that the position in which the PM was most stretched was maximum external rotation with 110° hip flexion and 40° hip adduction.