bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overconfidence and Preferences for Competition
Authors: REUBEN ERNESTO , SAPIENZA PAOLA , ZINGALES LUIGI
Published: February 2024

We study when preferences for competition are a positive economic trait among high earners and the extent to which this trait can explain the gender gap in income among a master's degree in business administration (MBAs). Consistent with the experimental evidence, preferences for competition are a positive economic trait only for individuals who are not overconfident. Preferences for competition correlate with income only at graduation when bonuses are guaranteed and not a function of performance. Overconfident competition‐loving MBAs observe lower compensation and income growth, and experience greater exit from high‐reward industries and more frequent job interruptions. Preferences for competition do not explain the gender pay gap among MBAs.
Supervised machine learning for exploratory analysis in family research
Authors: Sun Xiaoran
Published: February 2024

Objective

This article introduces supervised machine learning (ML) for conducting exploratory, discovery‐oriented family research in a transparent and systematic way.

Background

Supervised ML can examine large numbers of variable simultaneously, identify key predictors, and explore patterns among predictors—an approach that may help address concerns in family research about lack of theoretical specificity and prevalence of unguided exploratory analysis.

Method

Following an overview of supervised ML, example analyses drew on the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) dataset across Waves I–IV (N = 5114 adolescents, 50.53% female, Mage = 15.94, SD = 1.77 at Wave I). From 143 articles using Add Health data Waves I through IV, 62 adolescent family variables from eight domains (e.g., socioeconomics, parenting, health) were identified as predictors of young adult (ages 24–32) educational attainment. Following benchmark regression models, ML models were trained using Lasso regression, decision tree, random forest, and extreme gradient boosting; these were tested separately from training data and interpreted through SHapley Additive exPlanations.

Results

The random forest model performed best (R2 = .382 for the model with all the predictors): 14 variables were identified to be the key predictors of educational attainment. Patterns among these predictors, including directionality, nonlinearity and interactions emerged.

Conclusions

Supervised ML research can be used to inform further confirmatory analyses and advance theory.
Implementing Comprehensive Sex and Sexuality Education in Kindergarten—Grade 12 Schools: Guiding Practices and Examples
Authors: Moore Mikaela , Balascio Phoebe , Bonner‐Johnson Tausha , Garth José , Brinkman Britney , Hill Ashley V.
Published: February 2024

Background

Comprehensive sex and sexuality education (CSE) is an evidence‐based intervention associated with improved sexual and reproductive health outcomes. Currently, there are no standardized requirements for sex and sexuality education in the United States, despite expert recommendations.

Contributions to Theory

In the United States, a Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child theoretical model proposed by the Centers for Disease Control, and current examples of school sex education policy is used to make recommendations for the standardization of comprehensive sexual health education in K‐12 schools. This article describes the necessary components to adopt CSE equitably, and provides an example of the process implemented to improve CSE in 1 school district in Pittsburgh, PA.

Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity

Understanding the key components of legislation that align with recommended standards, and the process of advocating for school policy change, allows local advocacy groups and education policymakers to create and pass feasible legislation that will ensure appropriate instruction. There is additional room for improvement in states and local districts that have current CSE legislation, to adopt approaches grounded in frameworks that critically evaluate social determinants of health and amend legislation to further improve health equity.

Conclusions

Several states and local districts have passed CSE regulations, and are implementing and evaluating their efficacy, providing support and examples for other regions interested in adopting similar policies and processes. Pittsburgh Public Schools can be used as an example adapting current legislation and adopting more comprehensive language.
Efficacy and tolerance of oral versus parenteral cyanocobalamin supplement in hypocobalaminaemic dogs with chronic enteropathy: a controlled randomised open‐label trial
Authors: Dor C. , Nixon S. , Salavati Schmitz S. , Bazelle J. , Černá P. , Kilpatrick S. , Harvey N. D. , Dunning M.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Determine comparative tolerance of daily oral and weekly parenteral cobalamin supplementation, in hypocobalaminaemic dogs with chronic enteropathy. Determine whether oral is as effective as parenteral supplementation at achieving eucobalaminaemia, in hypocobalaminaemic dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy, severe hypocobalaminaemia or high canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index at inclusion.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐seven client‐owned dogs with hypocobalaminaemia and clinical signs of chronic enteropathy were prospectively enrolled in three UK referral centres. Dogs were randomly allocated to daily oral for 12 weeks or weekly parenteral cobalamin supplementation for 6 weeks and one additional dose 4 weeks later. Serum cobalamin, body condition score, canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index and bodyweight were assessed at inclusion, weeks 7 and 13. Serum methylmalonic acid concentration was evaluated at inclusion and at week 13. Owners completed treatment adherence, palatability, tolerance and satisfaction questionnaires at week 13.

Results

Nineteen dogs completed the study. All dogs orally supplemented achieved normal or increased cobalaminaemia at weeks 7 and 13. There was no statistical difference in cobalamin concentration at week 13 in dogs treated with oral or parenteral supplementation, regardless of presence of protein‐losing enteropathy, severity of hypocobalaminaemia or canine inflammatory bowel disease activity index at inclusion. Serum methylmalonic acid concentration was not significantly different between oral and parenteral groups, neither were treatment adherence, satisfaction, and tolerance scores at week 13.

Clinical Significance

Oral is as effective and as well‐tolerated as parenteral cobalamin supplementation in hypocobalaminaemic dogs with chronic enteropathy and severe clinical or biochemical phenotypes, and should be considered as a suitable treatment option regardless of disease severity.
Eating disorders in narcolepsy type 1: Evidence from a cross‐sectional Italian study
Authors: Baldini Valentina , Venezia Noemi , Iriti Anna , Quattrocchi Silvia , Zenesini Corrado , Biscarini Francesco , Atti Anna Rita , Menchetti Marco , Franceschini Christian , Varallo Giorgia , De Ronchi Diana , Plazzi Giuseppe , Pizza Fabio
Published: February 2024

Narcolepsy type 1 is a chronic central disorder of hypersomnolence, and it is frequently accompanied by overweight, but the association between narcolepsy type 1 and eating disorders is controversial. Our study aims to compare patients with narcolepsy type 1 and controls on the symptomatology of eating disorders and to evaluate the association between clinical factors. This is a cross‐sectional study, with consecutive recruitment of patients with narcolepsy type 1 attending the Outpatient Clinic for Narcolepsy at the IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna (Italy) for routine follow‐up visits. Healthy subjects from general populations were recruited as controls. Patients underwent a questionnaire‐based assessment using the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q), Binge Eating Scale (BES), Italian Night Eating Questionnaire (I‐NEQ), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and Narcolepsy Severity Scale (NSS). One hundred and thirty‐eight patients with narcolepsy type 1 and 162 controls were enrolled. This study showed that individuals with narcolepsy type 1 reported higher scores on the EDE‐Q, I‐NEQ, and a higher body mass index (BMI) than the controls. The logistic regression analysis results, with EDE‐Q positivity as a dependent variable, demonstrate a significant association with antidepressant drugs, female sex, and the use of sodium oxybate. We found an association between antidepressant drug consumption, the NSS total score, and female sex with BES positivity as the dependent variable. The logistic regression analysis for I‐NEQ positivity found an association with antidepressant drug use. This study shows that patients with narcolepsy type 1 frequently present with comorbid eating disorder symptomatology, mainly night eating syndrome. Investigating the possible presence of eating disorders symptomatology through questionnaires is fundamental during the assessment of patients with narcolepsy type 1.
Effects of obstructive sleep apnea treatment on neurodegenerative biomarker neurofilament light chain and cognitive performance
Authors: Sehr Tony , Akgün Katja , Benkert Pascal , Kuhle Jens , Ziemssen Tjalf , Brandt Moritz D.
Published: February 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with cognitive impairment and increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases. Obstructive sleep apnea treatment with positive airway pressure therapy helps to improve cognitive symptoms and reduces long‐term dementia risk. To test whether these treatment effects are due to a reduction in neuronal damage, we examined longitudinal changes in the neurodegenerative serum neurofilament light chain and cognitive performance of patients with obstructive sleep apnea. In this study, 17 patients with obstructive sleep apnea completed baseline and follow‐up (9 month after starting PAP treatment) investigation of sleep, daytime symptoms, cognitive testing and serum neurofilament light chain measurements. Depending on treatment adherence and efficacy, participants were assigned either to the effective treatment (n = 10) or non‐effective treatment group (n = 7). As results at baseline lower mean oxygen saturation during sleep was associated with higher serum neurofilament light chain. Patients in the non‐effective treatment group showed a significant increase of age‐adjusted percentile of serum neurofilament light chain levels at follow‐up, whereas serum neurofilament light chain values remained constant in the effective treatment group. At a functional level, effective treatment leads to an improvement in processing speed, which was not the case in the non‐effective treatment group. Longitudinal changes of age‐adjusted serum neurofilament light chain levels were associated with changes in cognitive performance. To conclude, this longitudinal observational study showed that effective obstructive sleep apnea treatment positively affects the amount of neuronal damage as well as working memory performance. As cognitive symptoms might not only be attributed to obstructive sleep apnea‐related sleep deficiency, but also neurodegeneration, our results underline the importance of treatment adherence and efficacy for the prevention of neuronal damage and cognitive consequences.
On the Uses of Phenomenology in Sociological Research: A Typology, some Criticisms and a Plea
Authors: Raza Sebastian
Published: February 2024

This paper aims to discern, clarify, criticise, and advocate some uses of phenomenology in sociological research. Phenomenology is increasingly evoked or implicitly employed in sociological endeavours. Little attention, however, is paid to what is entailed in taking a phenomenological approach, and whether it is employed to advance empirical or theoretical knowledge. I build an analytic typology of different empirical and theoretical uses of phenomenology, criticise a range of these uses, and argue that other uses bear significant potential for the advancement of theoretical and empirical knowledge. The paper's main contribution lies in comparing and contrasting the many invocations of phenomenology in contemporary social scientific research to discern their benefits and shortcomings.
Candidate circulating microRNA biomarkers in dogs with chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Armstrong Susan K. , Hunter Robert W. , Oosthyuzen Wilna , Parys Maciej , Gow Adam G. , Schmitz Silke Salavati , Dear James W. , Mellanby Richard J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Pancreatitis is an important cause of disease and death in dogs. Available circulating biomarkers are not sufficiently sensitive and specific for a definitive diagnosis.

Hypothesis

Circulating microRNAs would be differentially expressed in dogs with chronic pancreatitis and could have potential as diagnostic biomarkers.

Animals

Healthy controls (n = 19) and dogs with naturally occurring pancreatitis (n = 17).

Methods

A retrospective case‐control study. Dogs with pancreatitis were included if they satisfied diagnostic criteria for pancreatitis as adjudicated by 3 experts. MicroRNA was extracted from stored serum samples and sequenced. Reads were mapped to mature microRNA sequences in the canine, mouse, and human genomes. Differentially expressed microRNAs were identified and the potential mechanistic relevance explored using Qiagen Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA).

Results

Reads mapping to 196 mature microRNA sequences were detected. Eight circulating microRNAs were significantly differentially expressed in dogs with pancreatitis (≥2‐fold change and false discovery rate <0.05). Four of these mapped to the canine genome (cfa‐miR‐221, cfa‐miR‐222, cfa‐miR‐23a, and cfa‐miR‐205). Three mapped to the murine genome (mmu‐miR‐484, mmu‐miR‐6240, mmu‐miR‐101a‐3p) and 1 to the human genome (hsa‐miR‐1290). Expression in dogs with pancreatitis was higher for 7 microRNAs and lower for mmu‐miR‐101a‐3p. Qiagen IPA demonstrated a number of the differently expressed microRNAs are involved in a common pancreatic inflammatory pathway.

Conclusions

The significantly differentially expressed microRNAs represent promising candidates for further validation as diagnostic biomarkers for canine pancreatitis.
Effects of microalgae diets on growth, proximate, and fatty acid composition of black mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis
Authors: Eryalçın Kamil Mert , Pınarbaşı Zeynep Sena , Turk Sare Sena , Tınkır Merve
Published: February 2024

This study evaluates the growth, proximate, and fatty acid composition of black mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis fed four marine microalgae (Pavlova lutheri, Nannochloropsis oculata, Diacronema vlkianum and Rhinomonas reticulata) diets for 21 days. Black mussel is a common bivalve species that has been recognized as important for marine aquaculture with increasing production in the last two decades. The mussel group fed N. oculata showed a significantly lower survival rate than the other groups (p < 0.05). Shell height, length, and width of mussels were measured. The height and length of the mussel group fed N. oculata were statistically higher than other experimental groups (p < 0.05). Shell width did not show any significant differences among groups (p > 0.05). The microalgae N. oculata showed the highest protein content whereas P. lutheri had the highest crude lipid content among dietary treatments. The group fed P. lutheri showed significantly higher protein, lipid, and ash contents among experimental groups (p < 0.05). The D. vlkianum diet enhanced the highest docosahexaenoic acid level in black mussels. Black mussel fed P. lutheri showed the highest eicosapentaenoic acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid levels. Arachidonic acid was found to be similar among experimental groups. In our study, P. lutheri and D. vlkianum had outstanding results on survival, growth, and essential fatty acid accumulation in mussel culture.
Firm heterogeneity and the aggregate labour share
Authors: Richiardi Matteo G. , Valenzuela Luis
Published: February 2024

We propose a model‐based decomposition method for the aggregate labour share in terms of the first moments of the joint distribution of total factor productivity, market power, wages and prices, and apply it to UK manufacturing using firm‐level data for 1998–2014. Contrary to a narrative focussing on increasing disparities between firms, the observed decline in the aggregate labour share over the period is driven entirely by the decline in the labour share of the representative firm, mostly due to an increasing disconnect between average productivity and real wages. Changes in the dispersion of firm‐level variables have contributed to slightly contain this decline.
Iran's Strategies in Response To Changes in US‐China Relations
Authors: Bazoobandi Sara
Published: February 2024

The dynamics of the relationship between the United States and China have been shifting. This has prompted changes in strategic calculus and policy adoption by the friends and foes of each side. Iran, given its decades‐long links with China, has made several. First, it has deepened its ties with the Asian power beyond collaboration in business and trade. Second, it has revised its policies in the Gulf region to be a part of what it sees as China's network of influence, hoping to better position itself in a multilateral global order. Third, it has been seeking opportunities to project power through showing off its military capabilities in Ukraine. This article examines these strategic responses and concludes that Iran has been pursuing an agenda in line with the world vision of its senior leaders. The end goal for Tehran is to gain more power and relevance in the global strategic calculus. This analysis is part of a special issue examining the responses of Gulf countries to rising Sino‐American competition, edited by Andrea Ghiselli, Anoushiravan Ehteshami, and Enrico Fardella.
Academic hoaxes
Authors: Sneddon Andrew
Published: February 2024

What are academic hoaxes, and what should we make of them? This paper argues that academic hoaxes are exercises in pretense, with a complex structure involving both a focal item and a self‐revealing dimension, all governed by attitudes about the relevant sort of academic work, that are derivative yet different from the attitudes found in normal participation in publication. Hoaxes done primarily for humorous purposes are unproblematic. Serious academic hoaxes are both inherently risky and poorly suited to accomplish their ends, making them an undesirable feature of the contemporary academic landscape.
Modeling cerebrovascular responses to assess the impact of the collateral circulation following middle cerebral artery occlusion
Authors: Zhao Erin , Barber Jared , Mathew‐Steiner Shomita S. , Khanna Savita , Sen Chandan K. , Arciero Julia
Published: February 2024

Objective

An improved understanding of the role of the leptomeningeal collateral circulation in blood flow compensation following middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion can contribute to more effective treatment development for ischemic stroke. The present study introduces a model of the cerebral circulation to predict cerebral blood flow and tissue oxygenation following MCA occlusion.

Methods

The model incorporates flow regulation mechanisms based on changes in pressure, shear stress, and metabolic demand. Oxygen saturation in cerebral vessels and tissue is calculated using a Krogh cylinder model. The model is used to assess the effects of changes in oxygen demand and arterial pressure on cerebral blood flow and oxygenation after MCA occlusion.

Results

An increase from five to 11 leptomeningeal collateral vessels was shown to increase the oxygen saturation in the region distal to the occlusion by nearly 100%. Post‐occlusion, the model also predicted a loss of autoregulation and a decrease in flow to the ischemic territory as oxygen demand was increased; these results were consistent with data from experiments that induced cerebral ischemia.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of leptomeningeal collaterals following MCA occlusion and reinforces the idea that lower oxygen demand and higher arterial pressure improve conditions of flow and oxygenation.
Nurses' attitudes towards factors determining the safety of patients treated in intensive care units: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Malinowska‐Lipień Iwona , Sasak Paulina , Gabryś Teresa , Kózka Maria , Gniadek Agnieszka , Lompart Łukasz , Brzostek Tomasz
Published: February 2024

Background

The goal of health care systems is to ensure high quality of medical services provided, including patient safety. The intensive care unit (ICU) is an environment conducive to the occurrence of adverse events and medical errors because of the complexity of the care provided, the severity of the conditions of patients treated in these units and work often performed under stressful conditions.

Aim

Assessment of attitudes of nurses working in ICUs towards patient safety.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional, descriptive study was conducted in a group of 214 nurses employed in ICUs in hospitals located in the southern part of Poland. The study used the Polish version of the Attitudes towards safety: (SAQ‐SF PL) questionnaire and an original questionnaire consisting of questions on socio‐demographic and professional data.

Results

The overall SAQ score for the whole group was 61.89, 57.29 for adult ICU nurses and 68.20 for children's ICU. The surveyed nurses in general obtained the highest average results in terms of teamwork climate (TC)—66.92, while the lowest scores were given to the management—hospital management (PM)—45.08 and working conditions (WC)—57.56. job satisfaction (JS) positively correlated with the assessment of the TC, the assessment of the safety climate (SC), the assessment of the management staff (Head of Department) (PM), the assessment of the management staff (hospital management) (PM) and the assessment of work conditions (WC). A statistically significant, negative correlation was found between the assessment of JS and the assessment of stress recognition (SR) (r = −.20; p < .01).

Conclusions

In the surveyed ICU branches, there is a low SC, and it is related, among others, to the perception of WC and the role of the management staff. The level of JS among nursing staff mainly depends on the SC, the TC, WC and the support of the management staff.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The results of the research presented here provide valuable assistance in identifying areas related to patient safety in ICUs. Managers' awareness of the importance of coping with occupational stress, WC or effective teamwork can help to improve staff attitudes and attitudes towards patient safety. When shaping a safe culture in a health care organization, it is important to remember that ensuring safe patient care is not only about programmes, standards or procedures, but safety is primarily about human resources—the staff involved in the treatment process—doctors, nurses, paramedics and physiotherapists. High awareness of safety at work, cooperation in an interdisciplinary team, assessment of safety culture at work and analysis and drawing conclusions may result in a real increase in quality and safety, and the patient will feel safer in ‘XX’ hospitals.
Boesenbergia ashihoi (Zingiberaceae), a new species from northeast India
Authors: Debnath Suparna , Patil Sameer , Vijayan Deepu
Published: February 2024

A new species of Boesenbergia, B. ashihoi Suparna, Sameer Patil & V.Deepu is described from Lumdiengsai, Meghalaya, India. Boesenbergia ashihoi resembles B. siphonantha (King ex Baker) M.Sabu, Prasanthk. & Škornick. and B. tillandsiodes (Baker) Kuntze in bearing a small globular rhizome, long‐petioled leaves, horn‐like spike and anther connectives without crest, but differs in having elliptic leaves (versus oblong‐lanceolate), bracteoles much shorter than bracts (versus almost equalling bracts), labellum orbicular with orangish throat (versus ovate to obovate or cuneate with reddish or yellowish throat), and corolla tube 9–10 cm long (versus 1–6 cm long). The new species is described and illustrated in detail. A key to species of Boesenbergia in India is provided.
Refractive stability and timing of spectacle prescription following cataract surgery in myopic eyes
Authors: Feng Rui , Wang Mingwei , Tao Shuya , Liang Feiyan , Liu Xialin , He Chang , Fan Shuxin
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To investigate the post‐operative refractive stabilisation time and provide evidence for the optimal timing of a spectacle prescription in myopic post‐cataract surgery patients.

Methods

A total of 116 consecutive myopic cataract patients were recruited from the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in this prospective study. Post‐operative subjective refraction was assessed after 1 week and 1 month (4–6 weeks), with the interval for the new spectacle acquisition being recorded. Visual Function Index‐14 (VF‐14) questionnaires were used to assess the vision‐related quality of life.

Results

There was no significant difference in spherical (p = 0.33), cylindrical (p = 0.65) or spherical equivalent refractions (p = 0.45) obtained 1 week and 1 month post‐operatively, indicating that subjects achieved refractive stability within 1 week. In subgroups having differing age and axial lengths, there were also no significant differences between the 1 week and 1 month findings. The spherical equivalent refractive shift between 1 week and 1 month was significantly correlated with the post‐operative prediction error (R = 0.35; p < 0.001). Only five (4.3%) out of 116 patients obtained new spectacles 1 week post‐surgery. The VF‐14 values improved from 85.77 ± 7.24 to 90.45 ± 5.39 after acquiring new spectacles (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The stabilisation of subjective refraction occurred within 1 week in myopic cataract patients. Shortening the interval before prescribing a new spectacle prescription is recommended for myopic patients following cataract surgery to improve their vision‐related quality of life.
Clinical, immunological, and genetic description of a Mexican cohort of patients with DOCK8 deficiency
Authors: Liquidano‐Perez Eduardo , Maza‐Ramos Gibert , Perez Arias Bethy Alexandra , Lugo Reyes Saul Oswaldo , Barragan Arevalo Tania , Solorzano‐Morales Sara Alejandra , Venegas Montoya Edna , Staines‐Boone Aidé Tamara , Guzmán Cotaya Rogelio , Okada Satoshi , Picard Capucine , Patin Etienne , Ramirez‐Uribe Nideshda , Bustamante‐Ogando Juan Carlos , Scheffler‐Mendoza Selma Cecilia , Yamazaki‐Nakashimada Marco Antonio , Saez‐de‐Ocariz Marimar , Espinosa Padilla Sara Elva , Gonzalez‐Serrano Maria Edith
Published: February 2024

Purpose

We aimed to describe the clinical, immunological, and genetic features of patients with DOCK8 deficiency (DOCK8‐Def) in a tertiary care center for children.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients' clinical, immunological, and genetic characteristics with DOCK8‐Def. Genetic analysis was performed with targeted‐ or whole‐exome sequencing; we also assessed DOCK8 protein expression and a lymphoproliferation assay and analyzed survival by the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

We described 11 patients from 8 unrelated kindreds. The median age at symptoms' onset was 10 months (range 1–54 months). The median follow‐up time was 53.4 months (4.8–118.8). All patients presented eczema and recurrent sinopulmonary and cutaneous infections. Besides those symptoms, the most frequent manifestations were bronchiectases (8/11), food allergies (6/11), and severe infections (6/11). Infrequent characteristics were detection of CMV in bronchial lavage, C. parvum‐driven sclerosing cholangitis, Takayasu vasculitis, neurological syndromes, pulmonary tuberculosis, and lymphomatoid granulomatosis.

Conclusion

DOCK8‐Def has a broad spectrum of manifestations, including allergy, autoimmunity, inflammation, infection, and cancer. The hallmark of this inborn error of immunity is IEI‐associated eczema with eosinophilia and increased IgE. Here, we report six new mutations causing human DOCK8 deficiency and symptoms previously unrecognized to occur in DOCK8‐Def. Therefore, an early diagnosis of DOCK8‐Def is essential to facilitate an adequate treatment such as HSCT.
Cytonuclear interactions modulate the plasticity of photosynthetic rhythmicity and growth in wild barley
Authors: Tiwari Lalit Dev , Bdolach Eyal , Prusty Manas Ranjan , Bodenheimer Schewach , Be'ery Avital , Faigenboim‐Doron Adi , Yamamoto Eiji , Panzarová Klára , Kashkush Khalil , Shental Noam , Fridman Eyal
Published: February 2024

In plants, the contribution of the plasmotype (mitochondria and chloroplast) in controlling the circadian clock plasticity and possible consequences on cytonuclear genetic makeup have yet to be fully elucidated. A genome‐wide association study in the wild barley (Hordeum vulgare ssp. spontaneum) B1K collection identified overlap with our previously mapped DRIVERS OF CLOCKS (DOCs) loci in wild‐cultivated interspecific population. Moreover, we identified non‐random segregation and epistatic interactions between nuclear DOCs loci and the chloroplastic RpoC1 gene, indicating an adaptive value for specific cytonuclear gene combinations. Furthermore, we show that DOC1.1, which harbours the candidate SIGMA FACTOR‐B (SIG‐B) gene, is linked with the differential expression of SIG‐B and CCA1 genes and contributes to the circadian gating response to heat. High‐resolution temporal growth and photosynthesis measurements of B1K also link the DOCs loci to differential growth, Chl content and quantum yield. To validate the involvement of the Plastid encoded polymerase (PEP) complex, we over‐expressed the two barley chloroplastic RpoC1 alleles in Arabidopsis and identified significant differential plasticity under elevated temperatures. Finally, enhanced clock plasticity of de novo ENU (N‐Ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea) ‐induced barley rpoB1 mutant further implicates the PEP complex as a key player in regulating the circadian clock output. Overall, this study highlights the contribution of specific cytonuclear interaction between rpoC1 (PEP gene) and SIG‐B with distinct circadian timing regulation under heat, and their pleiotropic effects on growth implicate an adaptive value.
Assessing inter‐intraspecific variability of leaf vulnerability to embolism for 10 alpine Rhododendron species growing in Southwestern China
Authors: Zhang Xi‐Min , Xia Ying , Li Jie‐Ting , Shi Xiao‐Qian , Liu Lun‐Xian , Tang Ming , Tang Jing , Sun Wei , Wen Zhi‐Rui , Yi Yin
Published: February 2024

Alpine Rhododendron species are prominent constituents and renowned ornamental plants in alpine ecosystems. Consequently, evaluating the genetic variation in embolism resistance within the genus Rhododendron and predicting their adaptability to future climate change is important. Nevertheless, the assessment of embolism resistance in Rhododendron species remains limited. This investigation aimed to examine leaf vulnerability to embolism across ten alpine Rhododendron species, which are frequently employed as ornamental species in Rhododendron forests in Southwest China. The study analyzed the correlation between embolism resistance and various morphological traits, while also conducting water control experiments to evaluate the relationship between embolism resistance and drought resistance. The outcomes indicated pronounced variations in leaf vulnerability to embolism among species, as reflected by the water potential at 50% of embolized pixels (P50). Furthermore, the leaf P50 exhibited a significant positive correlation with vessel diameter (D) (R2 = 0.44, P = 0.03) and vessel wall span (b) (R2 = 0.64, P = 0.005), while displaying a significant negative correlation with vessel reinforcement ((t/b)2) (R2 = 0.67, P = 0.004). These findings underscore the reliability of selecting species based on embolism vulnerability to preserve the diversity of alpine ecosystems and foster resilience to climate change.
A comprehensive analysis of transcriptomic data for comparison of cold tolerance in two Brassica napus genotypes
Authors: Waseem Muhammad , Peng Jiantao , Basharat Sana , Peng Qiqi , Li Yun , Yang Guangsheng , Cheng Shanhan , Liu Pingwu
Published: February 2024

Brassica napus is an important oil crop and cold stress severely limits its productivity. To date, several studies have reported the regulatory genes and pathways involved in cold‐stress responses in B. napus. However, transcriptome‐scale identification of the regulatory genes is still lacking. In this study, we performed comparative transcriptome analysis of cold‐tolerant C18 (CT – C18) and cold‐sensitive C6 (CS – C6) Brassica napus genotypes under cold stress for 7 days, with the primary purpose of identifying cold‐responsive transcription in B. napus. A total of 6061 TFs belonging to 58 families were annotated in the B. napus genome, of which 3870 were expressed under cold stress in both genotypes. Among these, 451 TFs were differentially expressed (DE), with 21 TF genes expressed in both genotypes. Most TF members of the MYB (26), bHLH (23), and NAC (17) families were significantly expressed in the CT – C18 genotype compared with the CS – C6 B. napus genotype. GO classification showed a significant role in transcription regulation, DNA‐binding transcription factor activity, response to chitin, and the ethylene‐activated signaling pathway. KEGG pathway annotation revealed these TFs are involved in regulating more pathways, resulting in more tolerance. In conclusion, the results provide insights into the molecular regulation mechanisms of B. napus in response to freezing treatment, expanding our understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms in plants' response to freezing stress.
The role of programmed death receptor (PD‐)1/PD‐ligand (L)1 in periodontitis and cancer
Authors: Groeger Sabine , Meyle Joerg
Published: February 2024

The programmed‐death‐ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) is an immune‐modulating molecule that is constitutively expressed on various immune cells, different epithelial cells and a multitude of cancer cells. It is a costimulatory molecule that may impair T‐cell mediated immune response. Ligation to the programmed‐death‐receptor (PD)‐1, on activated T‐cells and further triggering of the related signaling pathways can induce T‐cells apoptosis or anergy. The upregulation of PD‐L1 in various cancer types, including oral squamous cell carcinomas, was demonstrated and has been linked to immune escape of tumors and poor prognosis. A bidirectional relationship exists between the increased PD‐L1 expression and periodontitis as well as the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process of interconversion of epithelial cells to mesenchymal cells that may induce immune escape of tumors. Interaction between exosomal PD‐L1 and PD‐1 on T‐cells may cause immunosuppression by blocking the activation and proliferation of T‐cells. The efficacy and importance of treatment with PD‐1/PD‐L1 checkpoint inhibitors and their prognostic influence on human cancers was demonstrated. Regarding PD‐1/PD‐L1 checkpoint inhibitors, resistances exist or may develop, basing on various factors. Further investigations of the underlying mechanisms will help to overcome the therapeutic limitations that result from resistances and to develop new strategies for the treatment of cancer.
Prevalence and risk factors of cognitive frailty among pre‐frail and frail older adults in nursing homes
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Min‐rui , Chen Xin , Deng Yong‐ping , Lin Yuan‐hong , Luo Yuan‐xia , Gao Yu‐lin
Published: February 2024

Background

The purpose of this research was to stratify the level of frailty to examine the risk factors associated with reversible cognitive frailty (RCF) and potentially reversible cognitive frailty (PRCF) in nursing homes to provide a basis for hierarchical management in different stages of frailty.

Methods

The study was a cross‐sectional study conducted from September to November 2022; 504 people were selected by stratified random sampling after convenience selection from the Home for the Aged Guangzhou. The structured questionnaire survey was conducted through face‐to‐face interviews using the general data questionnaire, Fried Frailty Phenotype, Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale.

Results

In total, 452 individuals were included for analysis. A total of 229 cases (50.7%) were PRCF, 70 (15.5%) were RCF. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that in pre‐frailty, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐15) score (odds ratio (OR) 1.802; 95% CI 1.308–2.483), Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale (IADL) score (0.352; 0.135–0.918) and energy (0.288; 0.110–0.755) were influencing factors of RCF. GDS‐15 score (1.805; 1.320–2.468), IADL score (0.268; 0.105–0.682), energy (0.377; 0.150–0.947), lack of intellectual activity (6.118; 1.067–35.070), admission time(>3 years) (9.969; 1.893–52.495) and low education (3.465; 1.211–9.912) were influencing factors of PRCF. However, RCF with frailty was associated with the Short‐Form Mini‐Nutritional Assessment (MNA‐SF) score (0.301; 0.123–0.739) and low education time (0 ~ 12 years) (0.021; 0.001–0.826). PRCF with frailty was associated with age (1.327; 1.081–1.629) and weekly exercise time (0.987; 0.979–0.995).

Conclusions

The prevalence of RCF and PRCF was high among pre‐frail and frail older adults in nursing homes. Different levels of frailty had different influencing factors for RCF and PRCF. Depression, daily living ability, energy, intellectual activity, admission time, education level, nutrition status, age and exercise time were associated with RCF and PRCF. Hierarchical management and intervention should be implemented for different stages of frailty to prevent or delay the progression of cognitive frailty.
Child Fostering and Family Size Preferences in Uganda
Authors: Cotton Cassandra
Published: February 2024

Mothers who exceed their ideal family size (IFS) may find themselves caring for more children than desired. In the absence of reliable and desirable prenatal controls of family size, mothers may foster‐out children to reduce burdens of childrearing, particularly in contexts where fostering is common. Using six rounds of Demographic and Health Surveys collected in Uganda between 1988 and 2016, I explore the relationship between exceeding IFS and child out‐fostering, proposing that fostering‐out may serve to manage excess fertility and that this relationship may change as actual and desired fertility declines. Models are run separately for mothers and children aged 0–17 to explore mothers’ overall out‐fostering behavior versus out‐fostering strategies for children. Results at the mother level suggest a strong positive relationship between exceeding IFS and out‐fostering that remains relatively stable over time, but results at the child level indicate children's age explains the relationship between mothers’ exceeding IFS and being fostered‐out, demonstrating the nuances of how family size preferences might impact family life in practice. Though mothers report a desire for smaller families over time, childbearing and childrearing behaviors, including high fertility and child out‐fostering, remain consistent over the course of Uganda's fertility transition, signifying the central role out‐fostering plays in Ugandan families.
Markedly upregulated serum semaphorin 4A as a novel activity marker of myasthenia gravis
Authors: Uzawa Akiyuki , Yasuda Manato , Akamine Hiroyuki , Onishi Yosuke , Handa Hideo , Ogaya Etsuko , Ozawa Yukiko , Masuda Hiroki , Mori Masahiro , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: February 2024

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoantibody‐mediated disease of the neuromuscular junction. Semaphorin 4A (Sema4A) is involved in the activation of T cells in various inflammatory disorders. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether Sema4A is involved in the pathogenesis of MG. We measured serum Sema4A concentrations in 30 treatment‐naïve MG patients with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies, 7 with muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies and 21 normal controls. As a result, serum Sema4A levels were significantly higher in patients with AChR antibody‐positive MG and MuSK antibody‐positive MG than in controls (p ≤ 0.0001 for both MG groups). Serum Sema4A levels were correlated with AChR antibody levels (Spearman's ρ = 0.39, p = 0.03) and MG Foundation of America clinical classification classes (Spearman's ρ = 0.38, p = 0.04) in patients with AChR antibody‐positive MG. In conclusion, high serum Sema4A levels may reflect T‐cell activation, and this molecule could be a potential marker of disease activity in MG.
Oxidized low‐density lipoproteins impair the pro‐atherosclerotic effect of granulocyte‐macrophage‐colony‐stimulating factor‐producing T helper cells on macrophages
Authors: Xiong Xiaofang , Yan Zheng , Yan Long , Yang Xuexue , Li Dongsheng , Lin Guizhen
Published: February 2024

T cells contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. However, the presence and function of granulocyte‐macrophage‐colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)‐producing T helper (ThGM) cells in atherosclerosis development is unknown. This study aims to characterize the phenotype and function of ThGM cells in experimental atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis was induced by feeding apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE−/−) mice with a high‐fat diet. Aortic ThGM cells were detected and sorted by flow cytometry. The effect of oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) on ThGM cells and the impact of ThGM cells on macrophages were evaluated by flow cytometry, quantitative RT‐PCR, oxLDL binding/uptake assay, immunoblotting and foam cell formation assay. We found that GM‐CSF+IFN‐γ− ThGM cells existed in atherosclerotic aortas. Live ThGM cells were enriched in aortic CD4+CCR6−CCR8−CXCR3−CCR10+ T cells. Aortic ThGM cells triggered the expression of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and C‐C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) in macrophages. Besides, aortic ThGM cells expressed higher CD69 than other T cells and bound to oxLDL. oxLDL suppressed the cytokine expression in ThGM cells probably via inhibiting the signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) signalling. Furthermore, oxLDL alleviated the effect of ThGM cells on inducing macrophages to produce pro‐inflammatory cytokines and generate foam cells. The nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A (NR4A) members NR4A1 and NR4A2 were involved in the suppressive effect of oxLDL on ThGM cells. Collectively, oxLDL suppressed the supportive effect of ThGM cells on pro‐atherosclerotic macrophages.
Teaching computational thinking in grade school requires “just right” individual teacher support
Authors: Miller‐Rushing Anica , Brasili Alexandria
Published: February 2024

In‐service teachers implementing a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum centered on computational thinking (CT) work with unique content and pedagogical experiences. Understanding how curriculum design and teacher professional development affect curriculum implementation can help researchers understand the critical aspects of supporting the teacher in “just right” ways to learn and teach an embedded CT curriculum. We qualitatively analyzed 22 teachers' discourse through a case study approach. We identified how CT is afforded and constrained through curriculum design and teacher professional development support. Teachers expressed that the supports that were critical to their confidence and perceived ability to teach CT were (a) a program that provides “just right” support, (b) a program that provides options and individualization, (c) an internal personal identity that embraces continual innovation and learning, and (d) an educational system that is encouraging and supportive of the effort and creativity it requires to implement innovative and intensive embedded CT programs. These findings can inform how to support teachers to integrate CT within existing STEM curricula as a core scientific and mathematical practice and to foster student interest in computer science.
Global distribution of Leptospira serovar isolations and detections from animal host species: A systematic review and online database
Authors: Hagedoorn Nienke N. , Maze Michael J. , Carugati Manuela , Cash‐Goldwasser Shama , Allan Kathryn J. , Chen Kevin , Cossic Brieuc , Demeter Elena , Gallagher Sarah , German Richard , Galloway Renee L. , Habuš Josipa , Rubach Matthew P. , Shiokawa Kanae , Sulikhan Nadezhda , Crump John A.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Leptospira, the spirochaete causing leptospirosis, can be classified into >250 antigenically distinct serovars. Although knowledge of the animal host species and geographic distribution of Leptospira serovars is critical to understand the human and animal epidemiology of leptospirosis, current data are fragmented. We aimed to systematically review, the literature on animal host species and geographic distribution of Leptospira serovars to examine associations between serovars with animal host species and regions and to identify geographic regions in need of study.

Methods

Nine library databases were searched from inception through 9 March 2023 using keywords including Leptospira, animal, and a list of serovars. We sought reports of detection of Leptospira, from any animal, characterised by cross agglutinin absorption test, monoclonal antibody typing, serum factor analysis, or pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis to identify the serovar.

Results

We included 409 reports, published from 1927 through 2022, yielding data on 154 Leptospira serovars. The reports included data from 66 (26.5%) of 249 countries. Detections were from 144 animal host species including 135 (93.8%) from the class Mammalia, 5 (3.5%) from Amphibia, 3 (2.1%) from Reptilia, and 1 (0.7%) from Arachnida. Across the animal host species, Leptospira serovars that were detected in the largest number of animal species included Grippotyphosa (n = 39), Icterohaemorrhagiae (n = 29), Pomona (n = 28), Australis (n = 25), and Ballum (n = 25). Of serovars, 76 were detected in a single animal host species. We created an online database to identify animal host species for each serovar by country.

Conclusions

We found that many countries have few or no Leptospira serovars detected from animal host species and that many serovars were detected from a single animal species. Our study highlights the importance of efforts to identify animal host species of leptospirosis, especially in places with a high incidence of human leptospirosis. We provide an updated resource for leptospirosis researchers.