bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beneficiary appointment and delivery planning in a conflict setting
Authors: Balcik Burcu , Battarra Maria , Celik Melih , Khoury Bashar , Subramanian Anand
Published: August 2024

In this study, we explore the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations engaged in relief efforts for internally displaced individuals during armed conflicts. Based on our semistructured interviews with three local nongovernmental organizations (LNGOs) in Syria, we introduce a new appointment scheduling problem to improve decision‐making for aid delivery planning in conflict settings. Operating in a highly resource‐constrained environment, these LNGOs face complexities that necessitate effective decision support tools to streamline supply delivery at relief facilities, where a large number of registered beneficiaries are served. Our proposed appointment scheduling problem aims to optimize the allocation of delivery times for various supplies, taking into account the urgency of needs and operational limitations. We present a heuristic that addresses the complexities of the proposed scheduling problem in a flexible way. The heuristic can accommodate simple rules derived from LNGOs' operational policies on the ground, such as imposing a single visit per beneficiary, delivering a single supply type per day, and preallocating time slots to conflict groups. We present a case study based on the Latakia district of Syria to assess the performance of our heuristic and the effectiveness of simplified delivery strategies. Our results not only showcase the efficiency of the heuristic, but also provide valuable managerial insights. We find that cross‐training of staff is more beneficial when supplies are relatively abundant. Furthermore, the simplified delivery policies are effective in certain conditions contingent upon various factors, including supply scarcity, difficulty of travel, and the level of conflict in the population.
Influence of hydrological variability and life history strategy on riverine fish assemblages in the Australian wet‐dry tropics
Authors: King Alison J. , Olden Julian D. , Luiz Osmar J. , Kennard Mark J. , Adair Brendan , Crook David A. , Douglas Michael M. , Saunders Thor M. , Wedd Dion
Published: August 2024

Riverine fish assemblages are strongly influenced by attributes of the flow regime. Tropical savannah river systems have distinct and predictable hydrologic seasonality, reflecting the wet‐dry climate, but can vary substantially in terms of dry season flow permanency and wet season flow‐pulse characteristics. Understanding how flow permanence and variability influence fish assemblages, and whether these factors can be used to predict responses to future hydrological change, are key knowledge gaps that impede effective management. We examined the influence of hydrological variability on the structure and diversity of freshwater fish assemblages across rivers of the wet‐dry tropics of northern Australia. We found distinct fish assemblages that varied predictably across three hydrological river types: Intermittent, Perennial Stable and Perennial Flashy flow regimes. This distinction emerged despite a common species pool across the region. Species richness was greatest in rivers with Perennial Stable flow regimes, whereas beta‐diversity was greatest in Intermittent rivers. However, life history strategies of constituent species were generally poor predictors of species abundances within each hydrological river type. The distinct fish assemblages evident among hydrological classes may provide some cautious ability to both predict potential fish assemblage changes with future hydrological changes (e.g. if perennial streams became more flashy or intermittent), and to predict fish assemblages expected in unsampled rivers with particular hydrological characteristics. Our findings provide further support for the importance of maintaining regional flow‐habitat heterogeneity and the connectivity between hydrological river types, and their essential role for conserving tropical fish species diversity into an uncertain hydrological future.
Increased sensorimotor activity during categorisation of emotionally ambiguous faces
Authors: Karakale Özge , McNair Nicolas , Moore Matthew , Kirk Ian
Published: August 2024

Actions are rarely devoid of emotional content. Thus, a more complete picture of the neural mechanisms underlying the mental simulation of observed actions requires more research using emotion information. The present study used high‐density electroencephalography to investigate mental simulation associated with facial emotion categorisation. Alpha‐mu rhythm modulation was measured at each frequency, from 8 Hz to 13 Hz, to infer the degree of sensorimotor simulation. Results suggest the sensitivity of the sensorimotor activity to emotional information, because (1) categorising static images of neutral faces as happy or sad was associated with stronger suppression in the central region than categorising clearly happy faces, (2) there was preliminary evidence indicating that the strongest suppression in the central region was in response to neutral faces, followed by sad and then happy faces and (3) in the control task, which required categorising images with the head oriented right, left, or forward as right or left, differences between conditions showed a pattern more indicative of task difficulty rather than sensorimotor engagement. Dissociable processing of emotional information in facial expressions and directionality information in head orientations was further captured in beta band activity (14–20 Hz). Stronger mu suppression to neutral faces indicates that sensorimotor simulation extends beyond crude motor mimicry. We propose that mu rhythm responses to facial expressions may serve as a biomarker for empathy circuit activation. Future research should investigate whether atypical or inconsistent mu rhythm responses to facial expressions indicate difficulties in understanding or sharing emotions.
Forming our grief rhythm: The relational window of tolerance for bereaved parents
Authors: Barboza Jessica , Seedall Ryan , Hooghe An , Kaplow Julie , Bradshaw Spencer
Published: August 2024

The shared loss of a child can present challenges to couple relationships as both partners attempt to cope with their own grief and their partner's grief. In this longitudinal qualitative study, five bereaved parent couples participated in 13 total interviews, revealing coregulatory interactions surrounding their shared loss. Using thematic coding and grounded theory analysis, their reflections were organized into three interrelated process themes: regulating self, regulating other, and forming our grief rhythm. This article explores the complexity of the last theme “forming our grief rhythm” in‐depth, and a new theoretical orientation, the relational window of tolerance, is introduced to examine how couples coregulate both fragile and stable states within their shared grief. The reflections of bereaved parents indicated that prolonged “dual fragile states” and prolonged “imbalanced states” may hinder relationship quality. In order to regain relationship stability, couples learned to trade off supporting one another and/or to resonate with one another in their shared pain. Implications for future research and clinical practice are discussed, focusing especially on how to integrate individual and relational needs into grief therapy frameworks.
Association of biomarkers and Barthel Index with occurrence of age‐related adverse health outcomes in individuals with diabetes
Authors: Umamoto Kotaro , Bouchi Ryotaro , Soeda Kotaro , Satake Shosuke , Hosoyama Tohru , Ohsugi Mitsuru , Ueki Kohjiro , Kajio Hiroshi
Published: August 2024

Aims/Introduction

The clinical significance of age‐related biomarkers in patients with diabetes has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we aimed to establish models to predict the progression of aging in patients with diabetes using biomarkers.

Materials and Methods

This single‐center, retrospective cohort study included 115 Japanese patients with diabetes aged ≥60 years. Age‐related adverse health outcomes were defined as emergency hospitalization, any increase in the level of nursing care certification, admission to a nursing home or death. The associations of age‐related biomarker levels (adiponectin, growth differentiation factor 15 [GDF15], C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 9 and apelin) and clinical indicators with age‐related adverse health outcomes were evaluated. Factors that predominantly influenced the occurrence of age‐related adverse health outcomes were explored using the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The mean age of the 115 participants was 73 years, 50.6% were men, the mean body mass index and hemoglobin A1c level were 25.3 kg/m2 and 9.79%, respectively. There were 26 age‐related adverse health outcomes during the study period (median 1.93, range 0–4.65 years). In a model combining clinical indicators and biomarkers, including the Barthel Index, GDF15 and adiponectin, the occurrence of age‐related adverse health outcomes was found to be significantly associated with GDF15 and Barthel Index. The group with both GDF15 and adiponectin levels higher than the median proved to be significantly higher than the group with both lower.

Conclusions

The measurement of GDF15 and adiponectin levels and the Barthel Index might be useful for predicting age‐related adverse health outcomes in patients with diabetes.
Additive inclusion in plastic life cycle assessments, part II: Review of additive inventory data trends and availability
Authors: Logan H. , DeMeester S. , Astrup T. F. , Damgaard A.
Published: August 2024

Plastic additives are as essential as polymers to the production and performance of plastic materials. Additive content can vary in composition and functionality depending on the product, producer, application, and production method. Such variation may be a barrier to achieving high‐quality recycling and planning for plastic circular economy futures. Yet, as found in Part I, although there is increasing awareness of the importance of additives in plastics, they are often poorly disclosed or only briefly discussed in life cycle assessments (LCAs). In part II, we focus on the inclusion of additives in plastic processes in the database most used in plastic LCAs to date (Ecoinvent) and find that additives have historically been omitted from plastic granulate data and in production processes in the evaluated database. Thus, many practitioners will need to separately include additives in their models of plastic life cycles. To support practitioners in this endeavor, we then assess the availability of the 13,587 additives identified in the recent UN Chemicals in Plastics Report across the three major LCI databases (CarbonMinds, Ecoinvent, and LCA for Experts [GaBi]). We find that databases currently cover only 1,209 of these additives. Moreover, we assert that transparency regarding additive inclusion in plastics datasets, availability of additive datasets, and additive data completeness are major barriers to additive inclusion in plastic LCAs. Thus, we recommend focusing on the development of additive datasets, and we provide a tool for the identification of additive dataset availability and data gaps to improve the quality of plastic LCAs.
Ultrasonographic measurement of the prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter in healthy intact male dogs and dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Ponglowhapan S. , Pattanaviboon K. , Maneerattanavichien Y. , Phitchayangkoon P. , Lueangprasert P. , Preechatangkit A. , Suthigarn S. , Saisawart P. , Thanaboonnipat C. , Choisunirachon N.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To establish ultrasonographic measurements of the prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios including the prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio in healthy, intact male dogs and compare these ratios between healthy dogs and dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Materials and Methods

Healthy dogs (n = 75) and dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia (n = 104) were included in the study. Prostate length, width, average height and aortic luminal diameter were measured from ultrasonographic images. In addition, prostatic volume was calculated, and prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter were also compared.

Results

In healthy dogs, aortic luminal diameter was significantly associated with bodyweight and the prostatic width while body condition scores, prostate length and prostatic average height were not associated. Prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios and prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio was not significantly different among dogs with different body condition scores either in healthy dogs or dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia, except prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios were significantly higher in benign prostatic hyperplasia while prostatic volume‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratio significantly higher in healthy dogs. Prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios demonstrated medium to high sensitivity and specificity when distinguishing between healthy dogs and dogs affected by benign prostatic hyperplasia. Prostatomegaly, should be considered when the prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios increase. The calculated cut‐off values were 3.68, 4.46 and 3.06 for prostate length‐to‐aortic luminal diameter, prostatic width‐ to‐aortic luminal diameter and prostatic average height‐to‐aortic luminal diameter, respectively.

Clinical Significance

The prostatic dimension‐to‐aortic luminal diameter ratios could be useful to evaluate the size of the prostate in dogs, as it is unaffected by the body condition scores.
Progress and future directions for seaweed holobiont research
Authors: Saha Mahasweta , Dittami Simon M. , Chan Cheong Xin , Raina Jean‐Baptiste , Stock Willem , Ghaderiardakani Fatemeh , Valathuparambil Baby John Ann Mary , Corr Shauna , Schleyer Guy , Todd Jonathan , Cardini Ulisse , Bengtsson Mia M. , Prado Soizic , Skillings Derek , Sonnenschein Eva C. , Engelen Aschwin H. , Wang Gaoge , Wichard Thomas , Brodie Juliet , Leblanc Catherine , Egan Suhelen
Published: August 2024

In the marine environment, seaweeds (i.e. marine macroalgae) provide a wide range of ecological services and economic benefits. Like land plants, seaweeds do not provide these services in isolation, rather they rely on their associated microbial communities, which together with the host form the seaweed holobiont. However, there is a poor understanding of the mechanisms shaping these complex seaweed–microbe interactions, and of the evolutionary processes underlying these interactions. Here, we identify the current research challenges and opportunities in the field of seaweed holobiont biology. We argue that identifying the key microbial partners, knowing how they are recruited, and understanding their specific function and their relevance across all seaweed life history stages are among the knowledge gaps that are particularly important to address, especially in the context of the environmental challenges threatening seaweeds. We further discuss future approaches to study seaweed holobionts, and how we can apply the holobiont concept to natural or engineered seaweed ecosystems.
Comparative Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Differential Cutaneous Gene Expression in the Color Variation of Two Ornamental Discus, Red Melon and Red Cover
Authors: Ng Tian Tsyh , Lau Cher Chien , Tan Min Pau , Wong Li Lian , Sung Yeong Yik , Muhammad Tengku Sifzizul Tengku , Liying Sui , Danish‐Daniel Muhd
Published: August 2024

Red Melon (RM) and Red Cover (RC) discus (Symphysodon spp.) are ornamental fish varieties that were selectively bred from the wild parental lineages of the brown discus S. aquafaciatus over many generations, resulting in distinct cutaneous patterns from juveniles to adults. To better understand the underlying mechanisms, skin samples were collected from juveniles aged 60 days and adults aged 1 year from RM and RC for investigations. Microscopic observation detected xanthophores and erythrophores in all samples, except RC juveniles with no erythrophores. Melanophores were presented only in RC. The comparative analysis revealed that genes involved in pteridine synthesis (gch1 and zgc:153031), one‐carbon metabolism (aldh1l2 and zgc153031), and lipid metabolism (apoda and klf1) were differentially expressed in RM juveniles, which may be associated with the development of erythrophores and xanthophores. The temporal inhibition of melanophore differentiation and development was observed in RM juveniles, coupled with elevated expression of notum2 and sost, two antagonist genes in Wnt‐signaling, suggesting their roles in melanophore development. Distinct pigment pattern between RM and RC since the juvenile stage may be driven by the differential expression of multiple axial developmental genes, including GATA, ankyrin, and mitotic spindle orientation proteins. This is the first report to describe the differential growth of cutaneous pigments and the molecular processes involved in red discus. The results provided valuable insights into pigment pattern differences in an interesting ornamental fish model.
Using a trait‐based dark diversity approach to evaluate natural recovery potential in forests
Authors: Deschênes Élise , Santala Kierann R. , Lavigne Jonathan , Aubin Isabelle
Published: August 2024

Utilizing ecosystems' natural recovery potential is crucial for enhancing the scale and efficacy of restoration efforts. However, this potential is currently underutilized in restoration ecology, and barriers to natural species recruitment remain poorly understood. In this study, we develop an analytical framework that combines trait‐based and dark diversity approaches to evaluate understory plant community recovery in smelter‐impacted forests and identify factors limiting recovery for absent species. A community completeness index (CCI) was calculated in 18 naturally recovering smelter‐impacted forests and three reference forests in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. The CCI was used to identify sites that deviate the most from their target communities and was compared to traditionally used indicators of plant recovery. Community weighted means (CWM) of traits for observed and dark diversity species were compared, and principal components analysis was used to identify relationships between traits of observed and missing species among study sites. Species unable to recover passively (i.e. with high dark diversity probabilities) were generally tall and/or large seeded. Understory plant community recovery was structured along two functional gradients, plant economics and size, which both coincided with distance to the smelter. Dark diversity and trait analyses were useful for identifying barriers to natural recovery and, therefore, providing guidance on targeted restoration actions. We conclude by discussing the limitations and opportunities of the dark diversity approach in a restoration context, highlighting the importance of carefully defining habitat‐specific species pools and critically assessing the ecological significance of dark diversity probabilities.
Association between cathepsins and skin cancers: A bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Xinyi , Zhuang Haocheng , Xu Mingze , Hou Fangzhen , Xue Chunyu
Published: August 2024

Background

Several cathepsins have been identified as being involved in the development of cancer. Nevertheless, the connection between cathepsins and skin cancers remained highly elusive.

Methods

A bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to investigate the causal association between cathepsins and skin malignancies. The genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) data for cathepsins, malignant melanoma (MM), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) were obtained from European research. The primary method employed was inverse variance weighted. In addition, MR‐Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and simple mode were also executed. Sensitivity analysis was performed using Cochran's Q test, MR‐Egger, and MR‐PRESSO.

Results

From univariable MR (UVMR), cathepsin H, and S were determined to have a causal relationship with BCC. Additionally, cathepsin H was identified as associated with MM. Multivariable MR (MVMR) showed that after correcting for risk factors of skin carcinoma, cathepsin H was detected to be protective against BCC, whereas cathepsin S has been observed as a risk factor for BCC. No substantial pleiotropy and heterogeneity were identified in the sensitivity analysis.

Conclusion

This study was the first to establish a direct link between cathepsins and skin malignancies. Cathepsin H and S have the potential to serve as new biomarkers for BCC, offering valuable assistance in the prompt identification, treatment, and prevention of the disease. Nevertheless, additional clinical trials are required to validate our findings.
The causal relationship between androgenetic alopecia and serum uric acid: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Yu Yan , Wang Shu , Wu Zijun , Lin Jinru , Wang Huiping
Published: August 2024

Background

Despite numerous studies investigating the association between androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and serum uric acid (SUA), the causal relationship between AGA and SUA remains unknown.

Methods

We utilized bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) to explore the causality between AGA and SUA. Our study chose single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with genome‐wide significance (p < 5×10−8) for the exposure and showing low linkage disequilibrium (R2 < 0.001) as IVs. Various MR methods were employed to evaluate causality, including inverse‐variance weighted (IVW), Weighted Median, MR‐Egger, Weighted Mode and Simple Mode. Sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of the results.

Results

Using the IVW method, we did not find a significant causal relationship between AGA and SUA (OR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.99–1.01; p = 0.451). Similarly, the IVW method did not reveal evidence of causality between SUA and AGA (OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.91–1.03; p = 0.301). The results from other methods were consistent with those of the IVW approach.

Conclusion

The study did not identify a causal relationship between AGA and SUA. Future research should involve larger cohorts and advanced methods to validate the findings and explore the complex interactions between AGA and SUA levels in different populations.
Causal effects of omega‐6 and LDL‐C on androgenetic alopecia: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Peilong Liu , Quanlin Zhao , Shuqing Gu
Published: August 2024

Background

Increasing studies have reported a causal relationship between androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and lipid‐related metabolites. However, the relationships between HDL‐C, LDL‐C, Omega‐6, and Omega‐3 with AGA remain unclear. Some research findings are even contradictory. Therefore, we designed this study to explore this issue.

Methods

In this study, we selected seven exposure factors, screened SNPs with significant associations, removed linkage disequilibrium and weak instrumental variables, and conducted bidirectional MR analysis.

Results

The study found that omega‐6 and LDL‐C, especially total cholesterol in medium LDL and total cholesterol in small LDL, are risk factors for the occurrence of androgenetic alopecia.

Conclusion

In summary, we found that various lipid‐related metabolites have a causal relationship with the occurrence of androgenetic alopecia, providing new insights into the pathogenesis of androgenetic alopecia and offering references for clinical treatment of androgenetic alopecia.
Evaluating a Stochastic Singularity Level in a V-Notch Isotropic Domain Due to Randomness in Material Properties
Authors: Omer Netta
Published: August 2024

The singular level of a v-notched isotropic domain is crucial as it relates to the domain’s stress intensity factor (SIF), which is essential for failure prediction. Typically, the singular level is calculated using deterministic material properties (like mean values), but this can misrepresent the severity of the singularity. The singular level’s accuracy is influenced by the stochastic nature of material properties, particularly Poisson’s ratio. This paper presents a stochastic approximation of eigenvalues for an isotropic v-notched domain with stochastic material properties. While both Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio are independent stochastic variables, only the stochasticity of Poisson’s ratio affects the eigenvalues. The generalized polynomial chaos method is applied to these stochastic eigenvalues, resulting in a polynomial approximation based on the domain’s stochastic Poisson ratio. The polynomial’s deterministic constants are derived from eigenvalues computed using chosen deterministic material properties according to the stochastic properties of Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. A numerical example illustrates the stochastic approximation of the first two eigenvalues, showing fast convergence as the number of polynomials increases. Results are validated against the Monte Carlo method, highlighting the importance of stochastic approximation in accurately predicting the singular level, which may be more severe than expected when using deterministic approximations. These findings have significant practical implications, as they underscore the need to consider stochastic material properties in structural design and failure prediction.
Effects of noise sensitivity and listening effort on perceptual ratings of background noise
Authors: von Berg Markus , Himmelein Hendrik , Steffens Jochen
Published: August 2024

Previous research suggests that noise sensitivity is related to inefficient auditory processing that might increase the mental load of noise and affect noise evaluation. This assumption was tested in an experiment using a dual-task paradigm with a visual primary task and an auditory secondary task. Results showed that participants' noise sensitivity was positively correlated with mental effort. Furthermore, mental effort mediated the effect of noise sensitivity on loudness and unpleasantness ratings. The results thus support the idea that noise sensitivity is related to increased mental effort and difficulties in filtering auditory information and that situational factors should be considered.
Sex Differences and Association Between Modified Balance Error Scoring System Error and Sway Index Scores in Collegiate, Club Sport, and High School Athletes
Authors: Moran Ryan N. , Haller Mason
Published: August 2024

The Modified Balance Error Scoring System (mBESS) remains the standard balance tool for evaluating sport-related concussion. Discrepancies between error and objective sway scoring remain a topic of assessment measures. The purpose was to examine sex differences between error and sway index scores and association between scores on the mBESS in collegiate and high school athletes. 119 athletes completed the mBESS on a Biodex BioSway. Measures consisted of mBESS errors and sway index scores produced by the BioSway. No sex differences were observed on mBESS errors and sway index scores by competition level and the overall sample. Moderate associations were observed between error and sway index scoring for single and tandem stances.
Training for Elite Team-Pursuit Track Cyclists—Part II: A Comparison of Preparation Phases in Consecutive World-Record-Breaking Seasons
Authors: Stadnyk Antony M.J. , Stanley Jamie , Decker Tim , Slattery Katie M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose: To compare the training characteristics of an elite team pursuit cycling squad in the 3-month preparation phases prior to 2 successive world-record (WR) performances. Methods: Training data of 5 male track endurance cyclists (mean [SD]; age 23.4 [3.46] y; body mass 80.2 [2.74] kg; 4.5 [0.17] W·kg−1 at LT2; maximal aerobic power 6.2 [0.27] W·kg−1; maximal oxygen uptake 65.9 [2.89] mL·kg−1·min−1) were analyzed with weekly total training volume by training type and heart rate, power output, and torque intensity distributions calculated with reference to the respective WRs’ performance requirements. Results: Athletes completed 805 (82.81) and 725 (68.40) min·wk–1 of training, respectively, in each season. In the second season, there was a 32% increase in total track volume, although track sessions were shorter (ie, greater frequency) in the second season. A pyramidal intensity distribution was consistent across both seasons, with 81% of training, on average, performed below LT1 power output each week, whereas 6% of training was performed above LT2. Athletes accumulated greater volume above WR team pursuit lead power (2.4% vs 0.9%) and torque (6.2% vs 3.2%) in 2019. In one athlete, mean single-leg-press peak rate of force development was 71% and 46% higher at mid- and late-phases, respectively, during the preparation period. Conclusions: These findings provide novel insights into the common and contrasting methods contributing to successive WR team pursuit performances. Greater accumulation of volume above race-specific power and torque (eg, team pursuit lead), as well as improved neuromuscular force-generating capacities, may be worthy of investigation for implementation in training programs.
Physiological and Performance Adaptations to Varying Rest Distributions During Short Sprint Interval Training Trials in Female Volleyball Players: A Comparative Analysis of Interindividual Variability
Authors: Tao Tao , Zhang Na , Yu Dawei , Sheykhlouvand Mohsen
Published: August 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the impact of different rest periods between short sprint interval training (SSIT) trials on the physiological and performance adaptations of female volleyball players. Methods: Twenty-four trained college athletes volunteered to participate in this study and were randomly assigned to 3 SSIT groups with different work-to-rest ratios (1:2 [5-s run:10-s rest], 1:4 [5-s run:20-s rest], and 1:6 [5-s work:30-s rest]). Before and after 6-week training, physiological parameters (maximum oxygen uptake, first and second ventilatory thresholds, and peak and mean power output) and physical performance measures (ie, countermovement vertical jump, 10-m sprint, and T-test change-of-direction speed) were evaluated. Results: After the training period, all groups improved (P = .001) their sport-related performance and physiological parameters, ranging from moderate to very large effect sizes. Comparative analysis of the magnitude of training effects indicated that the 1:6 SSIT group had in a significantly greater change in countermovement vertical jump (P = .007), 10-m sprint (P = .014), peak power output (P = .019), and mean power output (P = .05) compared with 1:2 SSIT group. By contrast, the 1:2 SSIT group demonstrated significantly (P = .022) greater changes in maximum oxygen uptake than the 1:6 SSIT group. However, the change-of-direction speed and changes in first and second ventilatory thresholds were the same among the groups (P > .05). Conclusions: When performing SSIT, longer rest intervals are suitable for physical and anaerobic performance, and shorter rest periods are appropriate for enhancing the cardiorespiratory fitness of female volleyball players’ performance.
The origin of 4-Vesta’s volatile depletion revealed by the zinc isotopic composition of diogenites
Authors: Fang Linru , Moynier Frederic , Barrat Jean-Alix , Yamaguchi Akira , Paquet Marine , Chaussidon Marc
Published: August 2024

Volatile element abundances vary substantially among terrestrial planetary bodies like Earth, Mars, Moon, and differentiated asteroids, leading to intense debate about the governing processes. howardites-eucrites-diogenites (HED) meteorites, most likely from asteroid 4-Vesta, represent highly volatile-depleted Solar System samples, offering critical insights into these processes. Zinc is a moderately volatile element and its isotopic composition reveals sources of volatiles in planetary bodies. Our study finds Zn isotopic anomalies in diogenites overlapping with noncarbonaceous reservoirs, indicating negligible contributions of outer solar system materials to 4-Vesta’s volatiles. Besides, zinc isotopic composition of 4-Vesta is lighter than that of chondrites, contrary to the expected signature of evaporation-based volatile depletion. This suggests that after 4-Vesta lost all its volatiles through evaporation during the magma ocean stage, partial kinetic recondensation occurred that produced the observed isotopically light composition. These insights, combined with previous data, underscore the process of global evaporation followed by partial condensation as a key factor influencing the final volatile budget of planetary bodies.
Mapping the existing evidence of the effects of school food policies on health, acceptance and affordability of secondary school children in Europe: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Meuer Janina , Blecha Nadia , Hübner Wiebke , Christianson Lara , Wolters Maike , Busse Heide , Hebestreit Antje , Forberger Sarah
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Unhealthy diets pose a significant public health risk among European children, contributing to the increasing prevalence of overweight and non-communicable diseases. Children spend a substantial amount of time at school daily, including lunchtime, so the school setting becomes crucial for promoting healthy diets and lifestyle habits. While there is a large body of literature on the impact of school food policies on health and non-health outcomes, it is essential to identify which policies are effective and can be recommended for implementation to ensure the efficient use of resources. This article presents a protocol for a scoping review that aims to map the current published literature on the effects of school food policies on health outcomes, acceptance and affordability in secondary school children in Europe. Moreover, the scoping review will map the measurements used to assess health outcomes, acceptance and affordability.

Methods and analysis

The scoping review protocol and review follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Review. To identify eligible studies, we will search MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science. The reference lists of the included articles will be checked for additional studies. In addition, country-specific ministry reports from Member States of the European Union, the UK, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland will be identified. The WHO and European Commission websites will also be searched for relevant reports. The scoping review will include literature published until 20 September 2023. No restrictions to study design and language will be applied. Screening and data extraction will be carried out independently by three reviewers. Disagreements will be resolved by discussion. A pretested data charting table will be used to extract key information. Findings will be presented in tabular and visualised summaries and a narrative summary.

Ethics and dissemination

This scoping review does not require ethical approval. Our dissemination strategy comprises peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and recommendations to policy-makers.
Twenty-year oncology sperm banking experience at a Canadian academic fertility centre: a retrospective study examining the usage and reproductive outcomes from oncology patients
Authors: Chen Tianhui , Hamilton Scot , Liu Kimberly E.
Published: August 2024

Background

Many cancer treatments pose a threat to fertility for patients. Semen cryopreservation before cancer treatment is an effective method to preserve fertility. There are sparse long-term data on the usage of samples from Canadian oncology sperm banks.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all oncology sperm banking samples at a Canadian academic fertility centre from 2001 to 2020 was conducted.

Results

From 2001 to 2020, 4521 samples were banked by 2504 patients. The most frequent diagnoses among these patients were testicular cancer (29.5%) and lymphoma (26.9%). Of these patients, only 81 (3.2%) patients returned to use their samples with intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment and 62 (2.5%) patients transferred their samples to another clinic. The time between banking and return for usage of the sperm ranged from 1 to 131 months with a median of 18 months after banking. A total of 66 IVF cycles (104 embryo transfers) and 101 IUI cycles from 67 patients were reviewed. Of the 67 couples who used their samples, 53.7% achieved a clinical pregnancy. The clinical pregnancy rate was 6.6% per cycle for IUI and 30.8% per embryo transfer for IVF. Higher sperm concentration or total motile count was not associated with a higher chance of pregnancy. Patients who conceived had on average 1.9 ± 0.8 (p=0.02) more usable embryos per cycle than those who did not conceive.

Conclusions

Sperm cryopreservation provides a valuable option for patients with cancer to achieve parenthood after potentially gonadotoxic cancer treatment. However, the overall usage of banked oncology sperm samples is very low.
Oscillatory potential findings in patients with acute ischaemic central retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Qu Ya , Ran Li , Wang Gang , Wang Min , Li Shiying
Published: August 2024

Aims

To explore the sensitive components of full-field electroretinography (ERG) as indicators of retina function at the onset of acute ischaemic central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).

Methods

11 patients (11 eyes) with ischaemic CRVO and 32 patients (32 eyes) with non-ischaemic CRVO who presented with first-episode unilateral CRVO within 1 month of symptom onset and with no previous intervention were examined by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision standard ERG.

Results

A significant amplitude decline and peak time delay in light-adapted (LA) 3 ERG and LA 30 Hz flicker ERG (p<0.05 for all) was found in the ischaemic CRVO eyes, compared with the non-ischaemic CRVO eyes. The b/a amplitude ratio of dark-adapted (DA) 3 ERG, DA 10 ERG and LA 3 ERG was significantly different between the ischaemic and non-ischaemic groups (p<0.05 for all). Regarding oscillatory potentials (OPs), the amplitudes of OP1, OP2 and OP3 as well as the sum of DA 3 OP1–4 amplitudes (∑OPs) showed significant changes (p<0.01 for all) between two groups. No peak time delay of OPs was found between the ischaemic and non-ischaemic CRVO eyes.

Conclusion

The amplitude of DA 0.01 ERG, components of LA 3 ERG and LA 30 Hz flicker ERG, and the b/a amplitude ratio could be among the most sensitive indicators in patients with acute ischaemic CRVO. The amplitudes of OP1, OP2, OP3 and ∑OPs in the CRVO eyes were reduced to 40% of the control values, showing that this quantitative method is reliable for detecting ischaemic retinal diseases, even in early stage.
An IL-7 fusion protein targeting EDA fibronectin upregulates TCF1 on CD8+ T-cells, preferentially accumulates to neoplastic lesions, and boosts PD-1 blockade
Authors: Di Nitto Cesare , Ravazza Domenico , Gilardoni Ettore , Look Thomas , Sun Miaomiao , Prodi Eleonora , Moisoiu Vlad , Pellegrino Christian , Manz Markus G. , Puca Emanuele , Weller Michael , Weiss Tobias , Neri Dario , De Luca Roberto
Published: August 2024

Background

Anti-PD-1 antibodies have revolutionized cancer immunotherapy due to their ability to induce long-lasting complete remissions in a proportion of patients. Current research efforts are attempting to identify biomarkers and suitable combination partners to predict or further improve the activity of immune checkpoint inhibitors. Antibody-cytokine fusions are a class of pharmaceuticals that showed the potential to boost the anticancer properties of other immunotherapies. Extradomain A-fibronectin (EDA-FN), which is expressed in most solid and hematological tumors but is virtually undetectable in healthy adult tissues, is an attractive target for the delivery of cytokine at the site of the disease.

Methods

In this work, we describe the generation and characterization of a novel interleukin-7-based fusion protein targeting EDA-FN termed F8(scDb)-IL7. The product consists of the F8 antibody specific to the alternatively spliced EDA of FN in the single-chain diabody (scDb) format fused to human IL-7.

Results

F8(scDb)-IL7 efficiently stimulates human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro. Moreover, the product significantly increases the expression of T Cell Factor 1 (TCF-1) on CD8+T cells compared with an IL2-fusion protein. TCF-1 has emerged as a pivotal transcription factor that influences the durability and potency of immune responses against tumors. In preclinical cancer models, F8(scDb)-IL7 demonstrates potent single-agent activity and eradicates sarcoma lesions when combined with anti-PD-1.

Conclusions

Our results provide the rationale to explore the combination of F8(scDb)-IL7 with anti-PD-1 antibodies for the treatment of patients with cancer.
Targeting TNFRSF25 by agonistic antibodies and multimeric TL1A proteins co-stimulated CD8+T cells and inhibited tumor growth
Authors: Lyu Xueyuan , Zhao Linlin , Chen Sijia , Li Yulu , Yang Yajing , Liu Huisi , Yang Fang , Li Wenhui , Sui Jianhua
Published: August 2024

Background

Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 25 (TNFRSF25) is a T-cell co-stimulatory receptor. Expression of its ligand, TNF-like cytokine 1A (TL1A), on mouse tumor cells has been shown to promote tumor regression. This study aimed to develop TNFRSF25 agonists (both antibodies (Abs) and TL1A proteins) and to investigate their potential antitumor effects.

Methods

Anti-mouse TNFRSF25 (mTNFRSF25) Abs and multimeric TL1A proteins were generated as TNFRSF25 agonists. Their agonism was assessed in luciferase reporter and T-cell co-stimulation assays, and their antitumor effects were evaluated in syngeneic mouse tumor models. TNFRSF25 expression within the tumor microenvironment and the effects of an anti-mTNFRSF25 agonistic Ab on tumor-infiltrating T cells were evaluated by flow cytometry. Cell depletion assays were used to identify the immune cell types that contribute to the antitumor effect of the anti-mTNFRSF25 Ab. The Fc gamma receptor (FcγR) dependence of TNFRSF25 agonists was assessed in anin vivoT-cell expansion model and a mouse tumor model using Fc variants and FcγR-deficient mice.

Results

TNFRSF25 agonists exhibited antitumor effects in syngeneic mouse tumor models without causing observed side effects. We identified an anti-mTNFRSF25 agonistic Ab, 1A6-m1, which exhibited greater antitumor activity than a higher affinity anti-TNFRSF25 Ab which engages an overlapping epitope with 1A6-m1. 1A6-m1 activated CD8+T cells and antigen-specific T cells, leading to tumor regression; it also induced long-term antitumor immune memory. Although activating TNFRSF25 by 1A6-m1 expanded splenic regulatory T (Treg) cells, it did not influence intratumoral Treg cells. Moreover, 1A6-m1’s antitumor effects required the engagement of both inhibitory FcγRIIB and activating FcγRIII. Replacing 1A6-m1’s CH1-hinge region with that of human IgG2 (h2) conferred enhanced antitumor effects. Finally, we also generated multimeric human and mouse TL1A fusion proteins as TNFRSF25 agonists, and they co-stimulated CD8+T cells and reduced tumor growth, even in the absence of Fc-FcγR interactions.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrates the potential of activating TNFRSF25 by Abs and multimeric TL1A proteins for cancer immunotherapy and provides insights into their development as

therapeutics.
More severe parotid gland histopathology in paediatric-onset than in adult-onset Sjögren’s disease
Authors: Legger Geertje Elizabeth , Nakshbandi Uzma , van Ginkel Martha S , Liefers Silvia C , de Wolff Lisette , Stel Alja J , Armbrust Wineke , Spijkervet Fred K L , Vissink Arjan , Arends Suzanne , Bootsma Hendrika , van der Vegt Bert , Verstappen Gwenny M , Kroese Frans G M
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the histopathological features of the parotid glands in patients with paediatric-onset Sjögren’s disease (pedSjD) in comparison to patients with adult-onset Sjögren’s disease (adSjD).

Methods

This study was performed in Groningen, the Netherlands. Patients with pedSjD from a diagnostic paediatric cohort (n=19), patients with adSjD from a diagnostic adult cohort (n=32) and patients with adSjD who participated in a clinical trial (n=42) with a baseline parotid gland biopsy were included. Parotid gland biopsies were analysed after (immuno)histological staining for SjD-related histopathological markers and compared between groups.

Results

All characteristic histopathological features of adSjD were also observed in pedSjD. There were no significant differences in lymphoepithelial lesions or immunoglobulin A (IgA)/IgG plasma cell shift between the pedSjD and the adSjD cohorts. However, compared with the diagnostic adSjD cohort (with comparable total EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) scores), pedSjD showed more severe lymphocytic infiltration as reflected by a higher focus score (p=0.003), a higher relative surface area of CD45+ infiltrate (p=0.041), higher numbers of B and T lymphocytes/mm2(p=0.004 and p=0.029, respectively), a higher B/T lymphocyte ratio (p=0.013), higher numbers of CD21+ follicular dendritic cell networks/mm2(p=0.029) and germinal centres (GC)/mm2(p=0.002). Compared with the trial adSjD cohort, with significant higher total ESSDAI scores (p=0.001), only the B/T lymphocyte ratio and numbers of GC/mm2were significantly higher in the pedSjD cohort (p=0.023 and p=0.018, respectively).

Conclusion

Patients with pedSjD exhibit more pronounced histopathological features compared with patients with adSjD at diagnosis. Notably, the histopathology of patients with pedSjD aligns more closely with that observed in an adSjD clinical trial cohort, with even stronger B lymphocyte involvement.
Transport does not influence maximum metabolic rate or thermal tolerance of endangered redside dace (Clinostomus elongatus)
Authors: Watt Ashley M. , Madliger Christine L. , Turko Andy J. , Mokdad Ali I. , Pitcher Trevor E.
Published: August 2024

Reintroduction is an important tool in the conservation and recovery of aquatic species at risk. However, components of the reintroduction process such as transportation have the potential to induce physiological stress and the extent to which preparatory techniques can mitigate this stress is poorly understood in small-bodied fishes. To address this concern, we studied the effect of transport on two fitness-related performance measures: maximum metabolic rate and thermal tolerance in redside dace ( Clinostomus elongatus), an imperilled small-bodied stream fish native to eastern North America. Prior to transportation, we manipulated the body condition of redside dace over a 12-week period, by providing either low (1% of their total body mass) or high (2% of their total body mass) rations. The goal of this manipulation was to influence body condition, as higher body condition can enhance physiological performance. Subsequently, redside dace were transported for varying durations: 0, 3, and 6 h. Following transportation, we measured maximum metabolic rate (µmol/h) and thermal tolerance (CTmax, °C). Our results indicate that neither transport nor body condition had a significant effect on maximum metabolic rate or thermal tolerance (CTmax). These findings provide preliminary evidence that redside dace can physiologically tolerate transport based on the endpoints measured and this information may possibly be extended to other small-bodied fish, for which information is lacking.