bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual resource constrained flexible job shop scheduling with sequence‐dependent setup time
Authors: Barak Sasan , Javanmard Shima , Moghdani Reza
Published: June 2024

This study addresses the imperative need for efficient solutions in the context of the dual resource constrained flexible job shop scheduling problem with sequence‐dependent setup times (DRCFJS‐SDSTs). We introduce a pioneering tri‐objective mixed‐integer linear mathematical model tailored to this complex challenge. Our model is designed to optimize the assignment of operations to candidate multi‐skilled machines and operators, with the primary goals of minimizing operators' idleness cost and sequence‐dependent setup time‐related expenses. Additionally, it aims to mitigate total tardiness and earliness penalties while regulating maximum machine workload. Given the NP‐hard nature of the proposed DRCFJS‐SDST, we employ the epsilon constraint method to derive exact optimal solutions for small‐scale problems. For larger instances, we develop a modified variant of the multi‐objective invasive weed optimization (MOIWO) algorithm, enhanced by a fuzzy sorting algorithm for competitive exclusion. In the absence of established benchmarks in the literature, we validate our solutions against those generated by multi‐objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) and non‐dominated sorted genetic algorithm (NSGA‐II). Through comparative analysis, we demonstrate the superior performance of MOIWO. Specifically, when compared with NSGA‐II, MOIWO achieves success rates of 90.83% and shows similar performance in 4.17% of cases. Moreover, compared with MOPSO, MOIWO achieves success rates of 84.17% and exhibits similar performance in 9.17% of cases. These findings contribute significantly to the advancement of scheduling optimization methodologies.
KLF7 promotes neuroblastoma differentiation through the GTPase signaling pathway by upregulating neuroblast differentiation‐associated protein AHNAKs and glycerophosphodiesterase GDPD5
Authors: Qiao Shupei , Jia Ying , Xie Li , Jing Wenwen , Xia Yang , Song Yue , Zhang Jiahui , Cao Tianhua , Song Huilin , Meng Lingdi , Shi Lei , Zhang Xue
Published: June 2024

The arrest of neural crest‐derived sympathoadrenal neuroblast differentiation contributes to neuroblastoma formation, and overriding this blocked differentiation is a clear strategy for treating high‐risk neuroblastoma. A better understanding of neuroblast or neuroblastoma differentiation is essential for developing new therapeutic approaches. It has been proposed that Krueppel‐like factor 7 (KLF7) is a neuroblastoma super‐enhancer‐associated transcription factor gene. Moreover, KLF7 was found to be intensely active in postmitotic neuroblasts of the developing nervous system during embryogenesis. However, the role of KLF7 in the differentiation of neuroblast or neuroblastoma is unknown. Here, we find a strong association between high KLF7 expression and favorable clinical outcomes in neuroblastoma. KLF7 induces differentiation of neuroblastoma cells independently of the retinoic acid (RA) pathway and acts cooperatively with RA to induce neuroblastoma differentiation. KLF7 alters the GTPase activity and multiple differentiation‐related genes by binding directly to the promoters of neuroblast differentiation‐associated protein (AHNAK and AHNAK2) and glycerophosphodiester phosphodiesterase domain‐containing protein 5 (GDPD5) and regulating their expression. Furthermore, we also observe that silencing KLF7 in neuroblastoma cells promotes the adrenergic‐to‐mesenchymal transition accompanied by changes in enhancer‐mediated gene expression. Our results reveal that KLF7 is an inducer of neuroblast or neuroblastoma differentiation with prognostic significance and potential therapeutic value.
Fracturing behavior and mechanism of flawed disc specimens under compressive loading using geometry‐constraint‐based nonordinary state‐based peridynamics
Authors: Niu Yong , Shou Yundong , Guo Pengfei , Hu Yunjin , Liu Bolong , Wang Longfei , Zhang Ranran
Published: June 2024

A geometry‐constraint‐based nonordinary state‐based peridynamic (GC‐NOSBPD) model is developed to investigate the fracture characteristics of flawed brittle disc specimens under compressive loading as well as its fracturing mechanism. The bond‐associated horizon (BAH) size is directly defined based on the kinematic constraint (KC). This proposed model can well mitigate the numerical oscillation. The failure criteria based on the bond‐associated stress state are utilized to simulate the fracture of materials. Two stress effects can offer an insight into the fracturing mechanism of flawed specimens. The failure modes of flawed specimens are controlled by the tensile failure, and the crack growth trajectories acquired by the present numerical model are equivalent to those obtained by the experimental observations. The effects of size and crack inclination angles on the fracture toughness of brittle materials are assessed. The GC‐NOSBPD model is competent for evaluating the fracture damage of flawed brittle materials and understanding its failure mechanism.
A novel approach combining the extended finite element method and the finite element over‐deterministic method to predict mixed‐mode fracture of rock by using unstructured coarse mesh
Authors: Mehraban Mohammad Reza , Ayatollahi Majid Reza , Ghouli Saeid , Bahrami Bahador
Published: June 2024

A rapid and appropriate evaluation of the crack asymptote coefficients is essential for estimating the fracture growth in rock materials with inherent cracks and discontinuities. In the present study, the extended finite element method (XFEM), implemented with free coarse mesh, is used in conjunction with the finite element over‐deterministic (FEOD) method to determine the stress intensity factors (SIFs) and T‐stress for mixed‐mode I/II in‐plane loading of cracked rock specimens. Then, the generalized strain energy density (GSED) criterion is employed to estimate both fracture load and crack initiation angle for two types of rock pre‐cracked specimens. The predictions of the GSED criterion are then benchmarked against the experimental results, here obtained from three‐point bend tests on Neyriz marble. It is shown that such an approach to evaluate the fracture load dramatically reduces the computational cost and effort, meanwhile guaranteeing high accuracy and robustness.
Outcomes of vascular closure devices for femoral venous hemostasis following catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Mills Mark T. , Calvert Peter , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Luther Vishal , Gupta Dhiraj
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Access site complications remain common following atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation. Femoral vascular closure devices (VCDs) reduce time to hemostasis compared with manual compression, although large‐scale data comparing clinical outcomes between the two approaches are lacking.

Methods

Two cohorts of patients undergoing AF ablation were identified from 36 healthcare organizations using a global federated research network (TriNetX): those receiving a VCD for femoral hemostasis, and those not receiving a VCD. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) model based on baseline characteristics was used to create two comparable cohorts. The primary outcome was a composite of all‐cause mortality, vascular complications, bleeding events, and need for blood transfusion. Outcomes were assessed during early (within 7 days of ablation) and extended follow‐up (within 8–30 days of ablation).

Results

After PSM, 28 872 patients were included (14 436 in each cohort). The primary composite outcome occurred less frequently in the VCD cohort during early (1.97% vs. 2.60%, odds ratio (OR) 0.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65–0.88; p < .001) and extended follow‐up (1.15% vs. 1.43%, OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65–0.98; p = .032). This was driven by a lower rate of vascular complications during early follow‐up in the VCD cohort (0.83% vs. 1.26%, OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.52–0.83; p < .001), and fewer bleeding events during early (0.90% vs. 1.23%, OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.58–0.92; p = .007) and extended follow‐up (0.36% vs. 0.59%, OR 0.61, 95% CI 0.43–0.86; p = .005).

Conclusion

Following AF ablation, femoral venous hemostasis with a VCD was associated with reduced complications compared with hemostasis without a VCD.
Utility of noninvasive electrocardiographic imaging in the localization of nonpulmonary vein triggers of atrial fibrillation determined by pacing common trigger sites
Authors: Thind Munveer , Lou Qing , Zado Erica S. , Markman Timothy M. , Schaller Robert D. , Nazarian Saman , Frankel David S. , Hyman Matthew C. , Tschabrunn Cory M. , Marchlinski Francis E.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Identifying the origin of nonpulmonary vein atrial fibrillation (AF) triggers (NPVTs) after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) can be challenging. We aimed to determine if noninvasive electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) could localize pacing from common NPVT sites. ECGi combines measured body surface potentials with heart‐torso geometry acquired from computed tomography (CT) to generate an activation map.

Methods

In 12 patients with AF undergoing first time ablation, the ECGi vest was fitted for preprocedural CT scan and worn during the procedure. After PVI, we performed steady‐state pacing from 15 typical anatomic NPVT sites at a cycle length of 700–800 ms. We co‐registered the invasive anatomic map with the CT‐based ECGi epicardial activation map to compare ECGi predicted to true pacing origin.

Results

In the study cohort (67% male, 58% persistent AF, and 67% with left atrial dilation), 148 (82%) pacing sites had both capture and adequate anatomy acquired from the three‐dimensional mapping system to co‐register with ECGi activation map. Median distance between true pacing sites and point of earliest epicardial activation derived from the ECGi maps for all sites was 17 mm (interquartile range, 10–22 mm). Assuming paced sites treated as regions with a radius of 2.5 cm, the earliest activation site on ECGi map falls within the region with 94% accuracy.

Conclusion

ECGi can approximate the origin of paced beats from common NPVT sites to within a median distance of 17 mm. A rapidly identified region may then be the focus of more detailed catheter‐based mapping techniques to facilitate successful localization and ablation of NPVTs.
Identification of biomarkers in multiple myeloma: A comprehensive study combining microarray analysis and Mendelian randomization
Authors: Zhu Yidong , Liu Jun , Wang Bo
Published: June 2024

Despite remarkable advancements in the treatment of multiple myeloma (MM), relapse remains a challenge. However, the mechanisms underlying this disease remain unclear. This study aimed to identify potential biomarkers that could open new avenues for MM treatment. Microarray data and clinical characteristics of patients with MM were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Differential expression analysis and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network construction were used to identify hub genes associated with MM. Predictive performance was further assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves and nomogram construction. Functional enrichment analysis was conducted to investigate possible mechanisms. Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to evaluate the causal relationship between the crucial gene and MM risk. Topological analysis of the PPI network revealed five hub genes associated with MM, with myeloperoxidase (MPO) being the key gene owing to its highest degree and area under the curve values. MPO showed significant differences between patients with MM and controls across all datasets. Functional enrichment analysis revealed a strong association between MPO and immune‐related pathways in MM. MR analysis confirmed a causal relationship between MPO and the risk of MM. By integrating microarray analysis and MR, we successfully identified and validated MPO as a promising biomarker for MM that is potentially implicated in MM pathogenesis and progression through immune‐related pathways.
Developmental trajectories of child and adolescent emotional problems: associations with early adult alcohol use behaviors
Authors: Chen Tong , Oginni Olakunle A. , Hannigan Laurie J. , Eley Thalia C. , Maggs Jennifer L. , Linden‐Carmichael Ashley N. , Neiderhiser Jenae M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Whether emotional problems during childhood and adolescence are longitudinally associated with adult alcohol use behaviors is unclear. This study examined associations between developmental trajectories of emotional problems and early adult alcohol use behaviors, while considering co‐occurring conduct problems, developmental change/timing, sex differences, and potential confounds.

Methods

Participants were from the Twins Early Development Study (analytic N = 19,908 individuals). Emotional and conduct problems were measured by parent reports at child ages 4, 7, and 9 years and via self‐reports at ages 9, 11, and 16 years on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Alcohol use behaviors (alcohol consumption and alcohol‐related problems) were self‐reported by the twins on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test at age 22 years. Piecewise latent growth curve models described nonlinear developmental trajectories of emotional and conduct problems from ages 4 to 16. At age 22, alcohol use was regressed on emotional and conduct problems' intercepts and slopes from piecewise latent growth curve model and sex differences in regression coefficients were tested. Using twin modeling, Cholesky decompositions and direct path models were compared to test whether significant phenotypic associations were best explained by direct phenotypic influences or correlated genetic and environmental influences.

Results

Emotional problems had different associations with alcohol‐related problems versus alcohol consumption. After accounting for direct influences from conduct problems, emotional problems were not associated with alcohol‐related problems, while emotional problems at age 9 were negatively associated with alcohol consumption in males.

Conclusions

Overall, findings did not support emotional problems as prospective risk factors for severe alcohol use above and beyond risks associated with conduct problems. Sex‐ and age‐specific links between emotional problems and alcohol consumption in early adulthood may be worthy of further exploration, particularly as twin analyses improved our confidence that such links may be underpinned by causal mechanisms.
Actinic keratosis: Current challenges and unanswered questions
Authors: Malvehy Josep , Stratigos Alexander J. , Bagot Martine , Stockfleth Eggert , Ezzedine Khaled , Delarue Alain
Published: June 2024

Actinic keratoses (AK) are common skin lesions associated with chronic exposure to sun. They are believed to be precursors of malignancy as they potentially may progress to invasive squamous cell carcinomas. The goal of current therapies is to reduce the number of AK and to prevent future cancer development. This review aims at providing an overview of the hallmarks of AK and skin field cancerization. We discuss epidemiology trends, risk factors and the state of the art and evidence of the current treatments. We review key figures of AK prevalence from different countries with regard to skin cancer risk and the associated economic burden of AK. We discuss the mutational status in AK lesions and the difficulties encountered by clinicians in evaluating AK visible and invisible lesions, referring to the concept of field cancerization. Based on a systematic literature review, we further evaluate the available treatment options. The presence of subclinical skin alterations in the periphery of visible AK lesions has gained a particular attention as those non‐visible lesions are known to contain the same genetic changes as those found in the AK lesions themselves, prompting the concept of ‘field cancerization’. Therefore, AK treatment guidelines now recognize the importance of treating the field in patients with AK. A recent systematic literature review and network meta‐analysis showed that 5‐FU interventions were associated with the best efficacy and a satisfactory acceptability profile compared with other field‐directed therapies used in the treatment of AK. Although AK are considered quite common, they lack an accurate descriptive definition and conclusive epidemiologic data. Limited public awareness is a barrier to early and effective treatment, including prevention strategies. While different treatment options are available, there is still a limited understanding of long‐term outcomes of treatment as measured by recurrence of cancer prevention.
Photoprotection: Current developments and controversies
Authors: Pellacani Giovanni , Lim Henry W. , Stockfleth Eggert , Sibaud Vincent , Brugués Ariadna Ortiz , Saint Aroman Markéta
Published: June 2024

This review aimed at summarizing some of the key points that were discussed during the photoprotection session at the International Forum of Dermatology in 2022. This international conference was designed to address prominent topics of clinical dermatology in a holistic way, allowing to articulate multiple viewpoints. Therefore, this review does not claim to be exhaustive, but is instead intended to give an overview of recent developments and ongoing controversies in the field of photoprotection. Cumulative ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is the major aetiological factor in the development of photoageing, photoimunosuppression and photocarcinogenesis. UVA (320–400 nm) penetrates into the dermis and damages DNA and other intracellular and acellular targets primarily by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). It is the major contributor to photoageing, characterized by fine and coarse wrinkles, dyspigmentation and loss of elasticity. UVB (290–320 nm) is responsible for sunburns through direct damage to DNA by the formation of 6–4 cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and pyrimidine 6–4 pyrimidone photoproducts. Both UVA and UVB exposure increase the risk of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. In recent years, visible light (VL; 400–700 nm) has also been implicated in the exacerbation of conditions aggravated by sun exposure such as hyperpigmentation and melasma. Photoprotection is a critical health strategy to reduce the deleterious effects of UVR and VL. Comprehensive photoprotection strategies include staying in the shade when outdoors, wearing photoprotective clothing including a wide‐brimmed hat, and sunglasses, and the use of sunscreen. Due to the absorption of UV filters, the safety of sunscreens has been questioned. Newer sunscreens are becoming available with filters with absorption even beyond the UV spectrum, offering enhanced protection compared with older products. Prevention of photocarcinogenesis, sun‐induced or sunlight‐exacerbated hyperpigmentary conditions and drug‐induced photosensitivity is an important reason for adopting comprehensive photoprotection strategies.
Effectiveness of guselkumab in patients with facial and/or genital psoriasis: Interim analysis results at Week 12 from the GULLIVER study
Authors: Bonifati C. , Lembo S. , Richetta A. G. , Romanelli M. , Satolli F. , Corazza M. , Atzori L. , Lasagni C. , Potenza C. , Savoia P. , Bardazzi F. , Di Lernia V. G. , Bianchi L. , Fabbrocini G. , Giofrè C. , Zichichi L. , Guarneri C. , Pallotta S. , Fargnoli M. C. , Loconsole F. , Offidani A. , Burlando M. , Piaserico S. , Peris K. , Papini M. , Carrera C. G. , Costanzo A. , Prignano F. , Bongiorno M. R. , Dapavo P. , Stingeni L. , Donini M. , Micali G. , Rongioletti F. , Stinco G. , Gramiccia T. , Cantini G. , Argenziano G.
Published: June 2024

Background

Facial (FP) and genital psoriasis (GP) significantly affect patients' quality of life. Despite the advances in treatments, limited data on efficacy and safety are available on these difficult‐to‐treat areas. Guselkumab is an interleukin (IL)‐23 inhibitor which has been proven effective in treating patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis.

Objectives

The aim of this interim analysis was to report the efficacy and safety of guselkumab in the treatment of patients with FP and/or GP.

Materials and Methods

GULLIVER is a 52‐week Italian observational study to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of guselkumab in a real‐life setting in patients with FP and/or GP. Adult patients with facial and/or genital moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis (sPGA score ≥ 3) were included. The primary endpoint of this analysis was the percentage of patients achieving a facial or genital sPGA score of 0 (clear) or 1 (almost clear), at Week 12. The change in the score of the facial or genital sPGA components in patients with a score ≥3 for each sPGA component was assessed. PASI score in patients with a baseline PASI above or below 10 was evaluated.

Results

Overall, 351 patients were included in the study; 83.3% of FP and 76.5% of GP patients achieved the primary endpoint. Similar response rates were observed for the facial or genital sPGA components in patients with a baseline facial or genital sPGA score ≥3 in each component. Among patients with a baseline PASI score >10, mean PASI score improved from 19.0 (SD 8.3) to 2.2 (SD 4.8). Forty‐four AEs were observed in 32 patients; two mild and transient AEs (fatigue and nausea) were considered treatment related. No SAEs were observed.

Conclusions

Guselkumab, showing to be effective and safe in treating FP and GP, may be a valid therapeutic option for patients with psoriasis localized in these difficult‐to‐treat areas.
Successful implementation of handheld reflectance confocal microscopy as the standard of care in the (surgical) management of lentigo maligna (melanoma)
Authors: Elshot Y. S. , Lasso Peña D. J. P. , Zupan‐Kajcovski B. , Bekkenk M. W. , Balm A. J. M. , Klop W. M. C. , de Rie M. A.
Published: June 2024

Background

Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) has shown promise in predicting surgical outcomes by non‐invasively detecting subclinical lentigo maligna (melanoma) (LM/LMM).

Objectives

To assess the effects of presurgical mapping using handheld RCM (HH‐RCM) on surgical treatment, follow‐up outcomes and management decisions.

Methods

A total of 117 consecutive LM/LMM cases (2015–2023) were included. The diagnostic accuracy of HH‐RCM in detecting subclinical LM and invasive components was evaluated. The primary endpoints included histological margin status and changes in management based on the outcomes of the HH‐RCM mapping procedure. Margin and follow‐up outcomes were compared to a historical cohort before HH‐RCM was introduced in our center (n = 94) (2003–2014).

Results

HH‐RCM detected subclinical LM in 60% (n = 60) of cases. The median mapping duration was 14 min (range 4–50). In 27% (n = 33), the mapping procedure resulted in modified management, the majority consisting of limited surgery with adjuvant imiquimod (n = 15) or imiquimod monotherapy (n = 14). The remaining cases (n = 84) underwent HH‐RCM‐assisted surgery. Histological margins were cleared in 96.5% of the patients with a median histological margin of 3.0 mm, significantly higher than 81% in the historical cohort (median 2.0 mm) (p = 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity for detecting the extent of subclinical LM were 94% (95% CI 80.4–99.3) and 84% (95% CI 70.3–92.7), respectively. The negative predictive value for the detection of LMM was 94% (95% CI 84.4–97.7), and 75% of the initially missed LMM (n = 12) were identified during the HH‐RCM mapping procedure. The study cohort had a 1.6% local recurrence rate compared with 25% in the historical cohort.

Conclusions

Integrating HH‐RCM as the standard of care could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for LM/LMM and allows for the selection of patients suitable for nonsurgical treatment.
Effect of Er:YAG laser on debonding zirconia and lithium disilicate crowns bonded with 2‐ and 1‐bottle adhesive resin cements
Authors: Suliman Sama , Sulaiman Taiseer , Deeb Janina Golob , Abdulmajeed Awab , Abdulmajeed Aous , Närhi Timo
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Erbium‐doped yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet (Er:YAG) laser debonding of zirconia and lithium disilicate restorations is increasingly used for a range of clinical applications. Using rotary instruments to remove such restorations for any purpose has proven to be challenging. Erbium laser has been reported to be a conservative method for removing ceramic restorations. There is little data in the literature about the effect of adhesive resin cement type on the debonding time of the ceramic restoration using the Er:YAG laser.

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the time required for the Er:YAG laser to debond zirconia and lithium disilicate crowns bonded with a 2‐ and 1‐bottle adhesive resin cement systems.

Materials and Methods

Forty extracted premolar teeth were prepared and scanned for milled 40 CAD/CAM crowns. Teeth were randomly assigned into groups (n = 10 per group): 3 mol% yttria‐partially stabilized zirconia crowns 3Y‐PSZ (G1a) bonded with Panavia™ V5 (2‐bottle adhesive resin cement), Zirconia 3Y‐PSZ crowns (G1b) bonded with RelyX™ Ultimate (1‐bottle adhesive resin cement), and for the lithium disilicate crowns bonded with the two types of cements (G2a, G2b). Each specimen was irradiated with an Er:YAG laser at 335 mJ, 15 Hz, 5.0 W, and 50‐ms pulse duration (super short pulse mode). The irradiation time required for crowns to be successfully debonded was recorded for each specimen. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey HSD post‐hoc test (p < 0.05), at the 95 percent level of confidence. The intaglio surface of the debonded crown was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results

The mean ± standard deviation times needed for crown debonding were 5.75 ± 2.00 min for the G1a group, 4.79 ± 1.20 min for group G1b, 1.69 ± 0.49 min for group G2a, and 1.12 ± 0.17 for group G2b. There was no statistically significant difference in debonding time between the 2‐ and 1‐ bottle adhesive resin cement within the groups G1a and b (p = 0.2914), or between groups G2a b (p = 0.7116). A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) was found between groups G1a and G2a and b and between groups G1b and G2a and b were SEM analysis showed no changes in the microstructure of the ceramic surface after Er:YAG laser irradiation.

Conclusion

Zirconia and lithium disilicate restorations can be debonded using Er:YAG lasers in a safe and efficient manner. There is no significant difference in the debonding time between the 2‐ and 1‐ bottle adhesive resin cement systems used in this study.

Clinical Significance

Retrieving zirconia and lithium disilicate ceramics can be a challenging process when using diamond rotary instruments. ER:YAG lasers may efficiently debond these ceramics from the tooth structure, independent of the bonding process used for bonding them.
Assessing brain neuroplasticity: Surface morphometric analysis of cortical changes induced by Quadrato motor training
Authors: Spani F. , Carducci F. , Piervincenzi C. , Ben‐Soussan T. D. , Mallio C. A. , Quattrocchi C. C.
Published: June 2024

Morphological markers for brain plasticity are still lacking and their findings are challenged by the extreme variability of cortical brain surface. Trying to overcome the “correspondence problem,” we applied a landmark‐free method (the generalized procrustes surface analysis (GPSA)) for investigating the shape variation of cortical surface in a group of 40 healthy volunteers (i.e., the practice group) subjected to daily motor training known as Quadrato motor training (QMT). QMT is a sensorimotor walking meditation that aims at balancing body, cognition, and emotion. More specifically, QMT requires coordination and attention and consists of moving in one of three possible directions on corners of a 50 × 50 cm2. Brain magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of practice group (acquired at baseline, as well as after 6 and 12 weeks of QMT), were 3D reconstructed and here compared with brain MRIs of six more volunteers never practicing the QMT (naïve group). Cortical regions mostly affected by morphological variations were visualized on a 3D average color‐scaled brain surface indicating from higher (red) to lower (blue) levels of variation. Cortical regions interested in most of the shape variations were as follows: (1) the supplementary motor cortex; (2) the inferior frontal gyrus (pars opercolaris) and the anterior insula; (3) the visual cortex; (4) the inferior parietal lobule (supramarginal gyrus and angular gyrus). Our results show that surface morphometric analysis (i.e., GPSA) can be applied to assess brain neuroplasticity processes, such as those stimulated by QMT.
Transcendent thinking counteracts longitudinal effects of mid‐adolescent exposure to community violence in the anterior cingulate cortex
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Fei , Hilliard Katrina , Gotlieb Rebecca , Immordino‐Yang Mary Helen
Published: June 2024

Adolescence involves extensive brain maturation, characterized by social sensitivity and emotional lability, that co‐occurs with increased independence. Mid‐adolescence is also a hallmark developmental stage when youths become motivated to reflect on the broader personal, ethical, and systems‐level implications of happenings, a process we term transcendent thinking. Here, we examine the confluence of these developmental processes to ask, from a transdisciplinary perspective, how might community violence exposure (CVE) impact brain development during mid‐adolescence, and how might youths' dispositions for transcendent thinking be protective? Fifty‐five low‐SES urban youth with no history of delinquency (32 female; 27 Latinx, 28 East Asian) reported their CVE and underwent structural MRI first at age 14–18, and again 2 years later. At the study's start, participants also discussed their feelings about 40 minidocumentaries featuring other teens' compelling situations in a 2‐h private interview that was transcribed and coded for transcendent thinking. Controlling for CVE and brain structure at the start: (1) New CVE during the 2‐year inter‐scan interval was associated with greater gray matter volume (GMV) reduction over that interval in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a central network hub whose reduced volume has been associated with posttraumatic stress disorder, and across multiple additional cortical and subcortical regions; (2) participants' transcendent thinking in the interview independently predicted greater GMV increase during the 2‐year inter‐scan interval in the ACC. Findings highlight the continued vulnerability of mid‐adolescents to community violence and the importance of supporting teens' dispositions to reflect on the complex personal and systems‐level implications and affordances of their civic landscape.
Insomnia symptom severity and dynamics of arousal‐related symptoms across the day
Authors: Balter Leonie J. T. , van Someren Eus J. W. , Axelsson John
Published: June 2024

Arousal is a central component of many emotional symptoms and can contribute to insomnia. Here we assessed how the timing and fluctuating nature of arousal‐related symptoms over the course of the day relate to insomnia symptom severity. In this study, 361 participants (M age = 31.9 years, 282 women, 77 men, 2 non‐binary individuals) completed the Insomnia Severity Index to assess severity of insomnia symptoms, followed by repeated ratings of anxiety or nervousness, stress, sleepiness, and feeling down via their mobile phone between ~08:00 hours and 00:00 hours across 1 day. Measures of dynamics included: mean levels across the day; variation (standard deviation); instability (mean squared successive differences); and resistance to change/inertia (first‐order autocorrelation). Time‐of‐day patterns were modelled using generalized additive mixed effects models. Insomnia symptom severity (mean Insomnia Severity Index = 9.1, SD = 5.2, range 0–25) was associated with higher mean levels of all arousal‐related symptoms, and increased instability and variation throughout the day in anxiety or nervousness, stress, and feeling down. Resistance to change (inertia) was not associated with insomnia symptom severity. Generalized additive mixed effects analyses showed that while individuals with more severe insomnia symptoms had elevated symptoms across the entire day, they were especially more anxious or nervous and sleepy in the early morning (~08:00 hours), anxious or nervous, stressed and sleepy in the late afternoon/early evening (~16:00 hours–21:00 hours), and anxious or nervous and stressed in the late evening (~22:00 hours). Remarkably, higher arousal occurred in the presence of high subjective sleepiness. Together these results indicate that insomnia symptom severity is associated with problems with daytime and evening arousal regulation.
Selecting the number of factors in multi‐variate time series
Authors: Caro Angela , Peña Daniel
Published: June 2024

How many factors are there? It is a critical question that researchers and practitioners deal with when estimating factor models. We proposed a new eigenvalue ratio criterion for the number of factors in static approximate factor models. It considers a pooled squared correlation matrix which is defined as a weighted combination of the main observed squared correlation matrices. Theoretical results are given to justify the expected good properties of the criterion, and a Monte Carlo study shows its good finite sample performance in different scenarios, depending on the idiosyncratic error structure and factor strength. We conclude comparing different criteria in a forecasting exercise with macroeconomic data.
Swimming ability of the Carybdea marsupialis (Cnidaria: Cubozoa: Carybdeidae): implications for its spatial distribution
Authors: Bordehore C. , Manchado‐Pérez S. , Fonfría E. S.
Published: June 2024

Although usually considered part of the plankton, cubozoans are strong swimmers. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of the active swimming ability of the box jellyfish Carybdea marsupialis on the spatial distribution of a well‐studied population in the NW Mediterranean where adults and juveniles do not overlap geographically. To accomplish this, we analyzed the swimming speed, effective velocity, effective displacement index (EDI), and proficiency of 27 individuals with diagonal bell widths (DBWs) ranging from 1.1 to 36 mm. The laboratory analysis utilized conventional video recordings and the video analysis tool Tracker. Mean swimming speed for small juveniles, medium juveniles and adults was 9.7 ± 0.8, 21.9 ± 2.3 and 43.1 ± 1.8 mm s−1 (mean ± se), respectively. Effective velocity was also proportional to size, ranging from 5.0 ± 0.7 to 38.8 ± 3.1 mm s−1 (mean ± se). The calculated EDI for each group was 0.51 ± 0.05, 0.84 ± 0.06 and 0.90 ± 0.05 (mean ± se), respectively. Proficiency showed an inverse trend, from 6.4 ± 0.6 s−1 for the small juveniles to 1.36 ± 0.05 for adults (mean ± se). Comparing the swimming speed results with the local currents obtained from drifting buoys analyzed in the area, adults would be able to swim strongly enough to overcome almost 70% of the currents, whereas the small juveniles would not reach 17%. This would allow larger individuals to select their habitat, while smaller individuals are left dependent on advection. Although experiments adding currents in aquaria would be necessary to confirm these theoretical results, the data obtained would be useful in improving the performance of bio‐mathematical models used to predict jellyfish blooms since, even though the sting of C. marsupialis is non‐fatal, it may produce systemic effects in sensitive swimmers.
Can you tell me more about that? An examination of self‐disclosure in videoconference and face‐to‐face psychological interviewing
Authors: Clough Bonnie A. , Alderson Angie , Savage Stacey , Farrer Louise , Kebbell Mark
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Videoconference psychotherapy (VCP) is a crucial component of many health care systems, allowing for remote delivery of services. However, little is known about the mechanisms of change within VCP. Previous research has suggested that self‐disclosure may be greater in VCP than face‐to‐face modalities and was investigated in the current study.

Design

Young adults aged 18–25 years (N = 57) were randomly allocated to face‐to‐face or VCP interview conditions, with measures completed pre‐ and post‐interview.

Methods

Participants completed an autobiographical memory task, requiring them to describe specific memories in response to positive and negative valence cue words. Measures included self‐reported self‐disclosure, blind observer‐rated self‐disclosure, memory specificity, and mean number of words per response.

Results

No significant differences were found between conditions with regard to self‐reported self‐disclosure, capacity to recall specific memories, or words uttered per response. However, observer‐rated depth of self‐disclosure was significantly higher for participants in the face‐to‐face than VCP condition. Self‐disclosure and memory specificity were also significantly greater for negative than positive valence cue words, regardless of condition.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that whilst participants may be able to draw on memories with equal ease regardless of interview modality, in VCP, emotional processing of these memories may require increased support and guidance from the therapist.
Delineation of loci governing an extra‐earliness trait in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) using the QTL‐Seq approach
Authors: Shivaprasad Kumbarahally Murthigowda , Dikshit Harsh K. , Mishra Gyan Prakash , Sinha Subodh Kumar , Aski Muraleedhar , Kohli Manju , Mishra Dwijesh C. , Singh Amit Kumar , Gupta Soma , Singh Akanksha , Tripathi Kuldeep , Kumar Ranjeet Ranjan , Kumar Atul , Jha Girish Kumar , Kumar Shiv , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: June 2024

Developing early maturing lentil has the potential to minimize yield losses, mainly during terminal drought. Whole‐genome resequencing (WGRS) based QTL‐seq identified the loci governing earliness in lentil. The genetic analysis for maturity duration provided a good fit to 3:1 segregation (F2), indicating earliness as a recessive trait. WGRS of Globe Mutant (late parent), late‐flowering, and early‐flowering bulks (from RILs) has generated 1124.57, 1052.24 million raw and clean reads, respectively. The QTL‐Seq identified three QTLs (LcqDTF3.1, LcqDTF3.2, and LcqDTF3.3) on chromosome 3 having 246244 SNPs and 15577 insertions/deletions (InDels) and 13 flowering pathway genes. Of these, 11 exhibited sequence variations between bulks and validation (qPCR) revealed a significant difference in the expression of nine candidate genes (LcGA20oxG, LcFRI, LcLFY, LcSPL13a, Lcu.2RBY.3g060720, Lcu.2RBY.3g062540, Lcu.2RBY.3g062760, LcELF3a, and LcEMF1). Interestingly, the LcELF3a gene showed significantly higher expression in late‐flowering genotype and exhibited substantial involvement in promoting lateness. Subsequently, an InDel marker (I‐SP‐383.9; LcELF3a gene) developed from LcqDTF3.2 QTL region showed 82.35% PVE (phenotypic variation explained) for earliness. The cloning, sequencing, and comparative analysis of the LcELF3a gene from both parents revealed 23 SNPs and InDels. Interestingly, a 52 bp deletion was recorded in the LcELF3a gene of L4775, predicted to cause premature termination of protein synthesis after 4 missense amino acids beyond the 351st amino acid due to the frameshift during translation. The identified InDel marker holds significant potential for breeding early maturing lentil varieties.
Hyperspectral signals in the soil: Plant–soil hydraulic connection and disequilibrium as mechanisms of drought tolerance and rapid recovery
Authors: Song Yangyang , Sapes Gerard , Chang Spencer , Chowdhry Ritesh , Mejia Tomas , Hampton Anna , Kucharski Shelby , Sazzad T. M. Shahiar , Zhang Yuxuan , Tillman Barry L. , Resende Márcio F. R. , Koppal Sanjeev , Wilson Chris , Gerber Stefan , Zare Alina , Hammond William M.
Published: June 2024

Predicting soil water status remotely is appealing due to its low cost and large‐scale application. During drought, plants can disconnect from the soil, causing disequilibrium between soil and plant water potentials at pre‐dawn. The impact of this disequilibrium on plant drought response and recovery is not well understood, potentially complicating soil water status predictions from plant spectral reflectance. This study aimed to quantify drought‐induced disequilibrium, evaluate plant responses and recovery, and determine the potential for predicting soil water status from plant spectral reflectance. Two species were tested: sweet corn (Zea mays), which disconnected from the soil during intense drought, and peanut (Arachis hypogaea), which did not. Sweet corn's hydraulic disconnection led to an extended ‘hydrated’ phase, but its recovery was slower than peanut's, which remained connected to the soil even at lower water potentials (−5 MPa). Leaf hyperspectral reflectance successfully predicted the soil water status of peanut consistently, but only until disequilibrium occurred in sweet corn. Our results reveal different hydraulic strategies for plants coping with extreme drought and provide the first example of using spectral reflectance to quantify rhizosphere water status, emphasizing the need for species‐specific considerations in soil water status predictions from canopy reflectance.
Neonatal respiratory complications in twins at 36–38 weeks of gestation
Authors: Kawaguchi Haruna , Kuritani Yoshihiro , Yamamoto Ryo , Hayashi Shusaku , Ishii Keisuke
Published: June 2024

Background

Twin pregnancies are associated with a high risk of perinatal mortality and morbidity. Late preterm or early term delivery is frequently performed to avoid unexpected fetal death in uncomplicated twin pregnancies. Nonetheless, delivery before full term is associated with neonatal respiratory complications. This study aimed to evaluate perinatal respiratory complications in twins delivered between 36 and 38 weeks of gestation.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on twins delivered between 36 and 38 weeks of gestation from January 2008 to June 2020. The primary outcomes were the incidence of composite neonatal respiratory morbidity, which included respiratory distress syndrome, transient tachypnea of the newborn, meconium aspiration syndrome, mechanical ventilation or continuous positive airway pressure according to gestational age at delivery, and chorionicity. The relationship between gestational age at delivery and composite neonatal respiratory morbidity was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

This study included 1608 twins (614 monochorionic diamniotic twins, 994 dichorionic diamniotic twins). At 36, 37, and 38 weeks of gestation, the frequencies of composite neonatal respiratory morbidity were 19.4%, 10.7%, and 9.2% in dichorionic diamniotic twins and 13.6%, 8.7%, and 9.4% in monochorionic diamniotic twins, respectively. In dichorionic diamniotic twins, the composite neonatal respiratory morbidity rate was higher for twins delivered at 36 weeks of gestation than for those delivered at 37 weeks. No significant differences between monochorionic diamniotic twins were detected.

Conclusions

In uncomplicated dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies, delivery should be considered after 37 weeks of gestation to reduce neonatal respiratory complications.
Regular prophylaxis with activated prothrombin complex concentrates in pediatric hemophilia
Authors: Horiguchi Ayumi , Arakawa Yuki , Mitani Yuichi , Isobe Kiyotaka , Mori Makiko , Fukuoka Kohei , Oshima Koichi , Koh Katsuyoshi
Published: June 2024

Background

Regular prophylaxis with activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCCs) is effective in adult patients with hemophilia with inhibitors; however, data in children are scarce.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective study at Saitama Children's Medical Center. Patients with severe and moderate hemophilia with inhibitors aged <15 years at the start of aPCCs prophylaxis were included. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

We treated nine pediatric patients with hemophilia with inhibitors (median age, 1.9 years; age range, 1.3–12.9 years; inhibitor titers before treatment with aPCCs, 5.9–69 BU/mL) using prophylactic aPCCs (doses, 50–100 U/kg; 2–3 times/week). The median prophylactic period was 13 months (range: 5–31 months). The median annualized bleeding rate (ABR) during prophylactic treatment with aPCCs was 2 (range, 0–17). In four patients, ABR was reduced by 19%–100% with prophylactic aPCCs compared to on‐demand aPCCs. An adverse effect of treatment was that a patient with hemophilia B developed nephrotic syndrome 34 months after starting regular prophylaxis with aPCCs.

Conclusions

Regular prophylactic aPCCs reduced the ABR even in younger children with hemophilia A and B. Serious adverse events include nephrotic syndrome, which requires caution.
Mineralogical characteristics and fluid inclusions of the Dashuixiabei crystalline graphite deposit in the Dunhuang block
Authors: Li ZhuoMing , Tang QingYan , Song Hong , Zhang Yan , Liu Wei , Su TianBao , Zhao Chi , Zhao JiChang
Published: June 2024

Graphite is a strategic mineral resource of the world. The Dashuixiabei (DSXB) crystalline graphite deposit is located in the Dongbatu area in the Altyn crystalline graphite metallogenic belt. This study presents data from x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser Raman spectroscopy, and fluid inclusions analysis conducted on the DSXB crystalline graphite deposit. The graphite is flake shaped, with a diameter of 0.1–0.4 mm. A group of extremely complete cleavage was observed under SEM, and the overall distribution was a flake. The C content in graphite is greater than 90 wt%, followed by N, O, and so on. The results of XRD analysis show that the lattice parameters of the DSXB crystalline graphite is a = 0.246–0.2465 nm, c = 0.6714–0.6715 nm, and V = 0.03519–0.03532 nm3. The degree of graphitization ranges from 0.8490 to 0.8519, indicating that the graphite crystal structure is relatively intact, the average metamorphic temperature is 552°C, and the content of 3R polytypes ranges from 13.16% to 13.25%. It is concluded that the metamorphic rocks of the DSXB crystalline graphite deposit have undergone medium‐grade metamorphism. The Raman spectral peaks show that DSXB crystalline graphite has a high degree of crystallinity. The DSXB crystalline graphite ore is dominated by hydrothermal fluids with medium‐low temperature and medium‐low salinity, and the vapor phase of the fluid inclusions is composed of CH4. There may be a superposition of the main and secondary mineralization stages. The crystalline graphite from the DSXB deposit shows high quality and stable ore quality, which has good metallogenic conditions and development and utilization prospects.
New York's experience with building an insurance marketplace: A decade of success and lessons learned
Authors: Burke Courtney , Holahan Danielle , Bassiri Amir , Oechsner Troy
Published: June 2024

This article reviews New York's experience with building an insurance marketplace after passage of the Affordable Care Act in 2010. Some of the article draws from the experiences of the authors, all of whom were, and some still are, involved with the New York State of Health (NYSOH). NYSOH has largely been a success if measured by total enrollment, affordability, and its ability to keep people enrolled during the recent unwinding. Factors that contributed to this success are important to document so that policymakers can note what elements of the administrative design and operation contributed to the increase in New Yorkers obtaining and staying insured.