bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outpatient inhaled corticosteroid use in bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Leon Cynara , Martin Amanda , Young Lisa R. , Aoyama Brianna C. , Rice Jessica L. , Kelchtermans Jelte , Collaco Joseph M. , McGrath‐Morrow Sharon A.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

In the outpatient setting, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are frequently given to children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) for treatment of respiratory and asthma‐associated symptoms. In this study we sought to determine if correlations existed between ICS use and ICS initiation and patient characteristics and outpatient respiratory outcomes.

Methods

This study included children with the diagnosis of BPD (n = 661) who were seen in outpatient pulmonary clinics at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia between 2016 and 2021. Chart review was used to determine patient demographics, use and timing of ICS initiation, asthma diagnosis, and acute care usage following initial hospital discharge.

Results

At the first pulmonary visit, 9.2% of children had been prescribed an ICS at NICU discharge, 13.9% had been prescribed an ICS after NICU discharge but before their first pulmonary appointment, and 6.9% were prescribed an ICS at the completion of initial pulmonary visit. Children started on an ICS as outpatients had a higher likelihood of ER visits (adjusted odds ratio: 2.68 ± 0.7), hospitalizations (4.81 ± 1.16), and a diagnosis of asthma (3.58 ± 0.84), compared to children never on an ICS. Of those diagnosed with asthma, children prescribed an ICS in the outpatient setting received the diagnosis at an earlier age. No associations between NICU BPD severity scores and ICS use were found.

Conclusions

This study identifies an outpatient BPD phenotype associated with ICS use and ICS initiation independent of NICU severity score. Additionally, outpatient ICS initiation correlates with a subsequent diagnosis of asthma and acute care usage in children with BPD.
Ray bioturbation rates suggest they shape estuary processes
Authors: Grew Molly , Gaston Troy F. , Griffin Andrea S. , Duce Stephanie J. , Raoult Vincent
Published: June 2024

Bioturbation of sediments is a key ecosystem service in estuarine and marine ecosystems, and rays (superorder Batoidea: skates, stingrays, electric rays and shovelnose rays) are among the largest bioturbators, modifying their habitat through foraging and predation. Ray activities cycle nutrients, increase oxygen penetration and re‐stratify sediments. However, given rays are globally threatened, it is unclear to what extent the loss of rays, and the ecosystem services they provide, would affect ecosystem processes. This study assessed the likely amount of sediment displaced annually by rays during foraging activities at an estuary scale. To achieve this, an aerial drone was used to map daily ray bioturbation activity, as evident from the presence of feeding pits. High‐resolution, 2.6 cm px−1, Digital Elevation Models (DEM) were created and used to measure the volume of sediment displaced by feeding pits. We found rays within the Brisbane Water estuary in NSW, Australia excavated 1.20 (±0.68) tonnes of sediment per day within this 1443 m2 intertidal area, or a rate of 575.2 cm3 m−2 per day. This bioturbation rate is relatively high compared to bioturbation rates documented in other ray species. Spatial autocorrelation analysis indicated that the ray feeding pits were significantly clustered by location as well as size (P < 0.01), suggesting size segregation of ray foraging. When bioturbation rates were conservatively extrapolated across measured feeding area in the estuary, we calculated rays displace 57.6 (±32.4) tonnes of sediment per day, or 21.0 (±11.4) kilotonnes per year. This underlines how ray bioturbation likely shape estuary processes, and how the loss of rays and their ecosystem services would likely have considerable impacts on estuarine sedimentary ecosystems. These findings emphasize the ecological importance of rays in an ecosystem and a need to better understand the consequences of anthropogenic pressures to these services.
Gain insight into important updates in finalized Title IX regs
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: June 2024

They’re here. The long‐awaited updated Title IX regulations have finally been issued. These rules are a major development in higher education law and differ from previous iterations of Title IX rules in significant ways. This article explains the most salient updates to the law and discusses procedural information related to the rules.
Schwarzites and Triply Periodic Minimal Surfaces: From Pure Topology Mathematics to Macroscale Applications
Authors: Felix Levi C. , Ambekar Rushikesh , Tromer Raphael M. , Woellner Cristiano F. , Rodrigues Varlei , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Tiwary Chandra S. , Galvao Douglas S.
Published: June 2024

Schwarzites are porous (spongy‐like) carbon allotropes with negative Gaussian curvatures. They are proposed by Mackay and Terrones inspired by the works of the German mathematician Hermann Schwarz on Triply‐Periodic Minimal Surfaces (TPMS). This review presents and discusses the history of schwarzites and their place among curved carbon nanomaterials. The main works on schwarzites are summarized and are available in the literature. Their unique structural, electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties are discussed. Although the synthesis of carbon‐based schwarzites remains elusive, recent advances in the synthesis of zeolite‐templates nanomaterials have brought them closer to reality. Atomic‐based models of schwarzites are translated into macroscale ones that are 3D‐printed. These 3D‐printed models are exploited in many real‐world applications, including water remediation and biomedical ones.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy for hypercontractile (Jackhammer) esophagus: A retrospective multicenter series with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Albers David , Witt Mana , Pandolfino John E. , Rösch Thomas , Schachschal Guido , Beyna Torsten , Neuhaus Horst , Gerges Christian , Kandler Jennis , Allescher Hans‐Dieter , Martinek Jan , Repici Alessandro , Ebigbo Alanna , Messmann Helmut , Schumacher Brigitte , Werner Yuki B.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Long‐term outcome data are limited for non‐achalasia esophageal motility disorders treated by peroral endoscopy myotomy (POEM) as a separate group. We investigated a subset of symptomatic patients with hypercontractile esophagus (Jackhammer esophagus).

Methods

Forty two patients (mean age 60.9 years; 57% female, mean Eckardt score 6.2 ± 2.1) treated by primary peroral myotomy for symptomatic Jackhammer esophagus 2012–2018 in seven European centers were retrospectively analyzed; myotomy included the lower esophageal sphincter but did not extend more than 1 cm into the cardia in contrast to POEM for achalasia. Manometry data were re‐reviewed by an independent expert. The main outcome was the failure rate defined by retreatment or an Eckardt score >3 after at least two years following POEM.

Results

Despite 100% technical success (mean intervention time 107 ± 48.9 min, mean myotomy length 16.2 ± 3.7 cm), the 2‐year success rate was 64.3% in the entire group. In a subgroup analysis, POEM failure rates were significantly different between Jackhammer‐patients without (n = 22), and with esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO, n = 20) (13.6% % vs. 60%, p = 0.003) at a follow‐up of 46.5 ± 19.0 months. Adverse events occurred in nine cases (21.4%). 14 (33.3%) patients were retreated, two with surgical fundoplication due to reflux. Including retreatments, an improvement in symptom severity was found in 33 (78.6%) at the end of follow‐up (Eckardt score ≤3, mean Eckardt change 4.34, p < 0.001). EGJOO (p = 0.01) and frequency of hypercontractile swallows (p = 0.02) were predictors of POEM failure. The development of a pseudodiverticulum was observed in four cases within the subgroup of EGJOO.

Conclusions

Patients with symptomatic Jackhammer without EGJOO benefit from POEM in long‐term follow‐up. Treatment of Jackhammer with EGJOO, however, remains challenging and probably requires full sphincter myotomy and future studies which should address the pathogenesis of this variant and alternative strategies.
A preliminary global investigation into potential impacts on successful captive breeding for two species of Rhyticeros hornbill
Authors: Groot Kees , Brereton James E. , King Catherine E. , Rose Paul
Published: June 2024

Asian hornbills have limited ex situ breeding success, yet these species are some of the most threatened of birds, in need of managed breeding programs. To optimize breeding and increase the sustainability of such populations, it is necessary to assess and improve their husbandry and welfare. Evidence to improve reproduction can be gathered through global husbandry surveys. A survey was sent out to all European Association of Zoos and Aquaria and Association of Zoos and Aquarium holders of the wreathed hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus) and Papuan hornbill (R. plicatus) to determine predictors for ex situ breeding success. This research found that pairs that have spent more years together (p = .016) and that adding additional proteins to the diet (p = .006) are two significant predictors of breeding success for wreathed‐ and Papuan hornbill pairs. This paper found a general trend that successful hornbill pairs prefer nest boxes that are situated outside (p = .054). The behaviors of calling to each other and sitting in close proximity showed a general trend and were observed more frequently in successful pairs and, therefore, could be good indicators of bonded pairs. We recommend that ex situ institutions allow their hornbill pairs time to form strong bonds, and that pair compatibility is monitored regularly to ensure that such interactions are positive and not consistently negative. An increase in the percentage of dietary proteins, prior and during the breeding season appears to stimulate pairs to breed. If the management and husbandry alterations presented in this study are implemented, the sustainability of Rhyticeros hornbill populations may be enhanced.
Symmetry of the left and right tibial plafond; a comparison of 75 distal tibia pairs
Authors: Verbakel Joy , Boot Miriam R. , van der Gaast Nynke , Dunning Hans , Bakker Max , Jaarsma Ruurd L. , Doornberg Job N. , Edwards Michael J. R. , van de Groes Sebastiaan A. W. , Hermans Erik
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Tibia plafond or pilon fractures present a high level of complexity, making their surgical management challenging. Three-Dimensional Virtual Planning (3DVP) can assist in preoperative planning to achieve optimal fracture reduction. This study aimed to assess the symmetry of the left and right tibial plafond and whether left–right mirroring can reliably be used.

Methods

Bilateral CT scans of the lower limbs of 75 patients without ankle problems or prior fractures of the lower limb were included. The CT images were segmented to create 3D surface models of the tibia. Subsequently, the left tibial models were mirrored and superimposed onto the right tibia models using a Coherent Point Drift surface matching algorithm. The tibias were then cut to create bone models of the distal tibia with a height of 30 mm, and correspondence points were established. The Euclidean distance was calculated between correspondence points and visualized in a boxplot and heatmaps. The articulating surface was selected as a region of interest.

Results

The median left–right difference was 0.57 mm (IQR, 0.38 – 0.85 mm) of the entire tibial plafond and 0.53 mm (IQR, 0.37 – 0.76 mm) of the articulating surface. The area with the greatest left–right differences were the medial malleoli and the anterior tubercle of the tibial plafond.

Conclusion

The tibial plafond exhibits a high degree of bilateral symmetry. Therefore, the mirrored unfractured tibial plafond may be used as a template to optimize preoperative surgical reduction using 3DVP techniques in patients with pilon fractures.
Properties of sandwich boards with a core made of bio-composite particleboard containing wood particles and walnut shells
Authors: Dukarska Dorota , Grześkowiak Wojciech , Kawalerczyk Jakub , Klucewicz Maciej , Florczak Maciej , Góral Błażej
Published: June 2024

The aim of the research was to investigate the possibility of producing bio-composite particleboard with a density reduced to 500–550 kg/m3, containing 25% and 50% of walnut shells. In addition, the study also concerned the possibility of using these materials in sandwich systems. Based on the results, it was found that partial replacement of wood particles with ground shells leads to a significant reduction in the strength of the boards bonded with urea-formaldehyde (UF) resin. However, the implementation of a hybrid gluing method consisting of gluing wood particles with UF resin and walnut shells with 4,4′-methylenediphenyl isocyanate (pMDI) caused a significant improvement in the strength of the boards, especially for the variant with the highest shells content. Despite that, the manufactured materials still do not meet the requirements for furniture boards. The next step of the research has shown that these boards can perform well as a core layer in the sandwich boards covered with high-strength HDF boards. Moreover, it was found that increasing the share of walnut shells positively affected the dimensional stability of the resultant boards (thickness swelling and water absorption). However, substitution of wood with shells accelerated the ignition and flameout times of the boards. It increased the heat release without significantly affecting the percentage loss of the boards’ mass during exposure to fire.
Muscle synergies for multidirectional isometric force generation during maintenance of upright standing posture
Authors: Monte Andrea , Benamati Anna , Pavan Agnese , d’Avella Andrea , Bertucco Matteo
Published: June 2024

Muscle synergies are defined as coordinated recruitment of groups of muscles with specific activation balances and time profiles aimed at generating task-specific motor commands. While muscle synergies in postural control have been investigated primarily in reactive balance conditions, the neuromechanical contribution of muscle synergies during voluntary control of upright standing is still unclear. In this study, muscle synergies were investigated during the generation of isometric force at the trunk during the maintenance of standing posture. Participants were asked to maintain the steady-state upright standing posture while pulling forces of different magnitudes were applied at the level at the waist in eight horizontal directions. Muscle synergies were extracted by nonnegative matrix factorization from sixteen lower limb and trunk muscles. An average of 5-6 muscle synergies were sufficient to account for a wide variety of EMG waveforms associated with changes in the magnitude and direction of pulling forces. A cluster analysis partitioned the muscle synergies of the participants into a large group of clusters according to their similarity, indicating the use of a subjective combination of muscles to generate a multidirectional force vector in standing. Furthermore, we found a participant-specific distribution in the values of cosine directional tuning parameters of synergy amplitude coefficients, suggesting the existence of individual neuromechanical strategies to stabilize the whole-body posture. Our findings provide a starting point for the development of novel diagnostic tools to assess muscle coordination in postural control and lay the foundation for potential applications of muscle synergies in rehabilitation.
Diet of non-breeding leach’s storm-petrels (Hydrobates leucorhous) in the sub-polar frontal zone of the North Atlantic
Authors: Silva Mónica C. , Catry Paulo , Newton Jason , Nunes Vera L. , Wakefield Ewan D.
Published: June 2024

In order to understand the drivers of the distribution and abundance of pelagic seabirds it is necessary to know what they eat, yet there remains little detailed, geo-referenced information on the diets of pelagic seabird. In particular, due to sampling difficulties, information is lacking for non-breeding stages, smaller species, such as storm-petrels, and remote oceanic areas, which may include important diversity hotspots. In this study, we aimed to characterize the trophic ecology of Leach’s storm-petrels foraging in the vicinity of the North Atlantic Current and Evlanov Seamount Marine Protected Area using a combination of survey methods. On a cruise undertaken in June 2017 to characterize the distribution and ecology of seabirds in the region, nineteen Leach’s storm-petrels were caught, sampled and released unharmed. Regurgitations and faecal samples were collected, as well as blood and feather tissues for stable isotope analyses. Of the 12 males, 6 females and 1 unsexed bird, 84% were in active flight feather moult, suggesting they were non-breeders. Prey species, assayed via molecular metabarcoding, were dominated by mesopelagic fish, principally lanternfishes (Myctophidae) and hatchetfishes (Sternoptychidae), but also included cephalopods and crustaceans. Additionally, almost half of the birds had microplastics in their regurgitates. Stable isotopic ratios did not differ significantly between sexes. Our results, combined with those of previous studies, suggest that within the oceanic North Atlantic, Leach’s storm-petrels feed at a similar trophic level to much larger seabirds, targeting mesopelagic fishes that are a key component of the North Atlantic pelagic food web.
Evaluation of oral health in 148 patients with systemic sclerosis—data from a prospective interdisciplinary monocentric cohort
Authors: Pecher Ann-Christin , Günaydin Bahar , Finke Hannah , Henes Jörg
Published: June 2024

In daily rheumatology practice, systemic sclerosis is primarily regarded as a potentially life-threatening disease characterized by fibrosis of various organs. Therefore, other manifestations, such as orofacial involvement, are often not of primary concern. Furthermore, due to its rarity, the disease might not be well known by dentists, which contrasts with the increased risk of various problems in the oral cavity. Periodontitis in particular is a known risk factor for morbidity and mortality and is associated with various systemic diseases. The risk of periodontitis appears to be increased in patients with systemic sclerosis, but little is known about the gender-specific differences. This study aims to elucidate the health-conscious behaviour of patients, their dental care and the risk of periodontitis with regard to gender-specific differences. This descriptive study of the Interdisciplinary Centre of Rheumatic Diseases (INDIRA) in collaboration with the Department of Orthodontics at the University Hospital of Tuebingen, Germany, examined the data of 148 patients with systemic sclerosis with regard to their oral health using a questionnaire and evaluating the risk of periodontitis with the DG Paro self-assessment score in this cohort. Among the participating patients, 90% reported regular visits to the dentist and good dental care. Nevertheless, more than half of the patients had missing teeth and problems opening their mouths. Sicca symptoms in the oral cavity were also common (40%). The risk of periodontitis among female participants was high (around 60%), and even higher among male study participants (around 80%). Gingival bleeding as a surrogate parameter for periodontitis was associated with salivary flow and the modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS). Despite a high awareness of dental health, we observed a high risk of periodontitis, especially in male patients with systemic sclerosis. In addition, the association between xerostomia and missing teeth as well as gingival bleeding and mRSS may indicate an increased risk in patients with a more progressive disease. We would therefore recommend regular dental consultations and careful oral hygiene for patients with systemic sclerosis in addition to the—more organ-focused—regular examinations of patients.
Unklare Ursache einseitiger Erblindung bei normwertigen Entzündungsparametern
Authors: Müller Felix , Pfob Christian Helmut , Wahle Matthias
Published: June 2024

Eine 70-jährige Patientin wird wegen akuter einseitiger Erblindung des rechten Auges vorgestellt. Bei unauffälligem C‑reaktivem Protein (CRP) und Blutsenkungsgeschwindigkeit (BSG) wird ein nichtarteriitischer embolischer Verschluss angenommen. Die weitere Anamnese ergibt jedoch den Verdacht auf eine Großgefäßvaskulitis, welcher durch die folgende bildgebende Diagnostik bestätigt wird. Dieser seltene Fall einer Großgefäßvaskulitis bei normwertigen Entzündungsparametern betont die Bedeutung von Anamnese und gezielter Diagnostik.
Bioavailability of Australian pre-schooler iron intakes at specific eating occasions is low
Authors: Atkins Linda A. , McNaughton Sarah A. , Spence Alison C. , Evans Lenore J. , Leech Rebecca M. , Szymlek-Gay Ewa A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Poor bioavailability may contribute to iron deficiency among children in high-resource countries, but iron bioavailability of Australian pre-schooler diets is unknown. This study aimed to estimate the bioavailability of Australian pre-schooler iron intakes across the day and by eating occasions to identify optimal timing for intervention, by using five previously developed algorithms, and to estimate the proportion of children with intakes of absorbable iron below the requirements.

Methods

Dietary data of children aged 2 to < 6 y (n = 812) from the 2011–12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were collected via two 24-h recalls. Usual food and nutrient intakes were estimated via Multiple Source Method. Phytate, polyphenol, and heme iron values were sourced from international databases or the literature. Five previously published algorithms were applied to observed dietary data to estimate iron bioavailability and calculate the prevalence of children with intakes of absorbable iron below requirements.

Results

Pre-schooler daily iron bioavailability was low (2.7–10.5%) and corresponded to intakes of 0.18–0.75 mg/d of absorbable iron. The proportion of children with inadequate intakes of absorbable iron ranged between 32 and 98%. For all eating occasions, dinner offered iron of the greatest bioavailability (4.2–16.4%), while iron consumed at breakfast was of the lowest bioavailability (1.2–5.6%).

Conclusion

Future strategies are required to improve intakes of bioavailable iron for pre-schoolers to prevent the risk of deficiency. These strategies could include the encouragement of concomitant consumption of enhancers of iron absorption with iron-rich sources, particularly at breakfast.
Genetics of bilateral pediatric cataract in the Israeli and Palestinian populations
Authors: Yahalom Claudia , Anteby Irene , Hendler Karen , Harel Tamar , Eilat Avital , Macarov Michal
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Bilateral pediatric cataract (BPC) is one of the most common causes of childhood visual impairment and blindness worldwide. A significant percentage of pediatric cataracts are caused by genetic alterations. We aim to characterize the set of genes and variants that cause BPC in the Israeli and Palestinian populations and to assess genotype-phenotype correlation.

Methods

Retrospective study in a multidisciplinary center for visual impairment, located in a tertiary medical center. Medical charts of families who underwent genetic counseling because of BPC in a family member were reviewed. Clinical characteristics and genetic tests results were obtained from medical records of affected subjects.

Results

Twenty-two families (47 patients) underwent genetic counseling and completed genetic testing. Causative variants were identified in 18/22 (81.8%) of the families, including 3 novel variants. Genetic testing used included mainly panel for congenital cataracts and whole exome sequencing. Eleven families performed genetic testing with the intention of future pregnancy planning. Main causative genes identified were crystalline genes followed by transcription factor genes. BCOR gene variants were associated with persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) cataract in two of three families.

Conclusions

Combined molecular techniques are useful in identifying variants causing pediatric cataracts and showed a high detection rate in our population. BCOR gene variants might be associated with PFV type of cataracts. The study of pathogenic variants may aid in family planning and prevention of pediatric cataracts in future pregnancies. Additionally, in certain cases, it assists in diagnosing non-suspected syndromic types of pediatric cataracts.
Morning physical activity may be more beneficial for blood lipids than afternoon physical activity in older adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Hyeon-Ki , Kimura Yuga , Takahashi Masaki , Nakaoka Takashi , Yamada Yosuke , Ono Rei , Shibata Shigenobu
Published: June 2024

Background

The effect of differences in daily physical activity patterns on blood lipids has not been determined. This study examines the effects of the differences in free-living daily physical activity patterns (amount and intensity) on blood lipid levels in older adults.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 51 older participants (71.8 ± 0.6 years, men = 8, women = 43). A triaxial accelerometer was used to assess physical activity patterns. The time from awakening to bedtime for each participant was used for group classification based on the amount (number of steps) and intensity (moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, MVPA) of physical activity. The morning step group (M Step) was defined as those who took more steps in the morning, and the afternoon step group (A Step) was defined as those who took more steps in the afternoon. The same method was used for MVPA (morning MVPA: M MVPA; afternoon MVPA: A MVPA). Blood samples were collected at the start of the study to determine blood lipid levels.

Results

Number of steps taken showed a trend toward lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in the M Step group compared with the A Step group. The LDL/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio was significantly lower in the M Step group than the A Step group (p < 0.05). The M MVPA group also had higher HDL-C levels and significantly lower LDL/HDL ratios than the A MVPA group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

These results suggest that compared with afternoon physical activity, daily morning physical activity (amount and intensity) is more effective in improving blood lipid levels.
Optimal trade execution under small market impact and portfolio liquidation with semimartingale strategies
Authors: Horst Ulrich , Kivman Evgueni
Published: June 2024

We consider an optimal liquidation problem with instantaneous price impact and stochastic resilience for small instantaneous impact factors. Within our modelling framework, the optimal portfolio process converges to the solution of an optimal liquidation problem with general semimartingale controls when the instantaneous impact factor converges to zero. Our results provide a unified framework within which to embed the two most commonly used modelling frameworks in the liquidation literature and provide a foundation for the use of semimartingale liquidation strategies and the use of portfolio processes of unbounded variation. Our convergence results are based on novel convergence results for BSDEs with singular terminal conditions and novel representation results of BSDEs in terms of uniformly continuous functions of forward processes.
Non-numerical weakly relational domains
Authors: Seidl Helmut , Erhard Julian , Tilscher Sarah , Schwarz Michael
Published: June 2024

The weakly relational domain of Octagons offers a decent compromise between precision and efficiency for numerical properties. Here, we are concerned with the construction of non-numerical relational domains. We provide a general construction of weakly relational domains, which we exemplify with an extension of constant propagation by disjunctions. Since for the resulting domain of 2-disjunctive formulas satisfiability is NP-complete, we provide a general construction for a further, more abstract, weakly relational domain where the abstract operations of restriction and least upper bound can be efficiently implemented. In the second step, we consider a relational domain that tracks conjunctions of inequalities between variables, and between variables and constants for arbitrary partial orders of values. Examples are sub(multi)sets, as well as prefix, substring or scattered substring orderings on strings. When the partial order is a lattice, we provide precise polynomial algorithms for satisfiability, restriction, and the best abstraction of disjunction. Complementary to the constructions for lattices, we find that, in general, satisfiability of conjunctions is NP-complete. We therefore again provide polynomial abstract versions of restriction, conjunction, and join. By using our generic constructions, these domains are extended to weakly relational domains that additionally track disjunctions. For all our domains, we indicate how abstract transformers for assignments and guards can be constructed.
Replay of incidentally encoded novel odors in the rat
Authors: Sheridan Cassandra L. , Bonner Lauren , Crystal Jonathon D.
Published: June 2024

Although events are not always known to be important when they occur, people can remember details about such incidentally encoded information using episodic memory. Sheridan et al. (2024) argued that rats replayed episodic memories of incidentally encoded information in an unexpected assessment of memory. In one task, rats reported the third-last item in an explicitly encoded list of trial-unique odors. In a second task, rats foraged in a radial maze in the absence of odors. On a critical test, rats foraged in the maze, but scented lids covered the food. Next, memory of the third-last odor was assessed. The rats correctly answered the unexpected question. Because the odors used in the critical test were the same as those used during training, automatically encoding odors for the purpose of taking an upcoming test of memory (stimulus generalization) may have been encouraged. Here, we provided an opportunity for incidental encoding of novel odors. Previously trained rats foraged in the radial maze with entirely novel odors covering the food. Next, memory of the third-last odor was assessed. The rats correctly answered the unexpected question. High accuracy when confronted with novel odors provides evidence that the rats did not automatically encode odors for the purpose of taking an upcoming test, ruling out stimulus generalization. We conclude that rats encode multiple pieces of putatively unimportant information, and later replayed a stream of novel episodic memories when that information was needed to solve an unexpected problem.
UM171 suppresses breast cancer progression by inducing KLF2
Authors: Ran Xiaojuan , Hu Anling , Kuang Yi , Wang Chunlin , Liu Wuling , Xiao Xiao , Zacksenhaus Eldad , Yu Xiangdi , Ben-David Yaacov
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer in women with significant death rate. Morbidity is associated with drug resistance and metastasis. Development of novel drugs is unmet need. The aim of this study is to show potent anti-neoplastic activity of the UM171 compound on breast cancer cells and its mechanism of action.

Methods

The inhibitory effect of UM171 on several breast cancer (BC) cell lines was examined using MTT and colony-forming assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis assays were utilized to determine the effect of UM171 on BC cell proliferation and survival. Wound healing scratch and transwell migration assays were used to examine the migration of BC cell lines in culture. Xenograft of mouse model with 4T1 cells was used to determine inhibitory effect of UM171 in vivo. Q-RT-PCR and western blotting were used to determine the expression level of genes effected by UM171. Lentivirus-mediated shRNAs were used to knockdown the expression of KLF2 in BC cells.

Results

UM171 was previously identified as a potent agonist of human hematopoietic stem cell renewal and inhibitor of leukemia. In this study, UM171 was shown to inhibit the growth of multiple breast cancer cell lines in culture. UM171-mediated growth inhibition was associated with the induction of apoptosis, G2/M cell cycle arrest, lower colony-forming capacity, and reduced motility. In a xenotransplantation model of mouse triple-negative breast cancer 4T1 cells injected into syngeneic BALB/c mice, UM171 strongly inhibited tumor growth at a level comparable to control paclitaxel. UM171 increased the expression of the three PIM genes (PIM1-3) in breast cancer cells. Moreover, UM171 strongly induced the expression of the tumor suppressor gene KLF2 and cell cycle inhibitor P21CIP1. Accordingly, knockdown of KLF2 using lentivirus-mediated shRNA significantly attenuated the growth suppressor activity of UM171. As PIM1-3 act as oncogenes and are involved in breast cancer progression, induction of these kinases likely impedes the inhibitory effect of KLF2 induction by UM171. Accordingly, combination of UM171 with a PAN-PIM inhibitor LGH447 significantly reduced tumor growth in culture.

Conclusion

These results suggested that UM171 inhibited breast cancer progression in part through activation of KLF2 and P21. Combination of UM171 with a PAN-PIM inhibitor offer a novel therapy for aggressive forms of breast cancer.
Emotion Regulation in Families: Exploring the Link between Parent-Child Alexithymia and Child Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Corso Casey B. , Hoppe Rebecca , Kliewer Wendy , Wike Traci , Winter Marcia A.
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic comprises a mass trauma for children and families, and children may face particular vulnerability to post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) through processes of parent and child emotional dysregulation, such as alexithymia. With 88 U.S. children (Mage = 9.94 years; 54.5% female; 59.1% White) and their parents/caregivers (68.2% female; 59.1% White), a path model was tested in which child alexithymia symptoms partially mediated the association between parent alexithymia symptoms and child COVID-19-related posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). We also tested an alternative model in which child alexithymia symptoms moderated the association between parent alexithymia symptoms and child PTSS. The hypothesized mediation model was supported (β = 0.15, SE = 0.05, 95% CI: [0.07, 0.25], p < 0.001), whereas the hypothesized moderator model was not (β = 0.06, p = 0.44). Findings highlight the importance of parents’ emotional understanding and regulation for child mental health during mass traumas such as pandemics.
Factors Associated with Teacher Wellbeing: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Sijing , Slemp Gavin R. , Vella-Brodrick Dianne A.
Published: June 2024

Teacher wellbeing has received widespread and increasing global attention over the last decade due to high teacher turnover, growing teacher shortages, and the goal of improving the quality of teaching and student performance. No review has yet sought to undertake a cumulative quantitative assessment of the literature pertaining to teacher wellbeing. Using meta-analysis, we address this gap by systematically examining the relative strength of key antecedents, consequences, and correlates of teacher wellbeing, using the Job Demands-Resources theory as a guide to positioning factors in the nomological network. Following PRISMA guidelines, our systematic search yielded 173 eligible studies for inclusion (N = 89,876). Results showed that hope, autonomous motivation, psychological capital and job competencies were the top four strongest positive predictors of overall wellbeing, whereas neuroticism and disengagement coping were the top two strongest negative predictors. Occupational commitment was the strongest positive consequence of overall wellbeing, and turnover intentions were the strongest negative consequence. Burnout and work engagement were the strongest correlates of overall wellbeing. We also found that some effects were moderated by factors such as whether teachers were in-service or pre-service, and the educational setting (e.g., K-12, initial teacher education). Our review provides a useful empirical resource that may help guide practice in terms of how teachers, school leaders, and policy makers can support teacher wellbeing.
The United Nations SDG13 and the EU27 countries performance: A comparative analysis
Authors: Sena Marina B. , Costa Leonardo , Leitão Alexandra , Silva Maria C. A.
Published: June 2024

This paper evaluates the performance of the European Union 27 (EU-27), its supranational regions, and Member States (MSs) in relation to the Climate Action Sustainable Development Goal (SDG13) of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. The Alkire–Foster method is used to develop the Multidimensional Climate Action Index (MCAI) framework. Regarding individual MSs’ overall performance, the results show that Sweden (Northern Europe) performs the best and Croatia (Central and Eastern Europe) the worst. In terms of the average overall performance of individual MSs in the EU-27 and its supranational regions, only Western and Northern Europe have satisfactory scores. Moreover, the performances of the various territories differ by target. This territorial heterogeneity illustrates how the SDG13 targets may require different efforts in each territory. The scores for the MCAI group measure depict an even worse picture. Except for Northern Europe, the proportion of MSs with a satisfactory individual overall composite score (H) is lower than their average overall composite score or intensity (A). The two regions with the lowest H scores (Southern Europe and Central and Eastern Europe) also have the lowest A scores and the lowest average GDP per capita.
Intraspecific leaf trait variation of the heterophyllous amphibious plant Luronium natans: a trait-based study
Authors: Chmara Rafał , Pronin Eugeniusz
Published: June 2024

Heterophylly, a type of intraspecific trait variation (ITV), is commonly observed in aquatic and amphibious plants. In this study, we focused on Luronium natans (L.) Raf., as a model species to investigate ITV, specifically looking at variations within different leaf types. The objective was to test general hypotheses regarding ITV across various leaf traits. We collected 210 leaves from the homogeneous environments of softwater lakes in northwestern Poland to measure six leaf traits: leaf area (LA), leaf dry weight (LDW), specific leaf area (SLA), leaf dry mass content (LDMC), circularity, and leaf width/length ratio (shape traits). These leaves were categorized into three types based on the shoot: heterophyllous shoots with floating leaves (HF), heterophyllous shoots with submerged leaves (HS), and submerged rosettes with linear leaves (S). Significant differences were observed in LA and LDMC within these leaf types and in SLA between HF and S types. ITV within each shoot type exhibited a wide range of variation, particularly in LA, LDW, SLA, and LDMC, with shape traits displaying stronger variability than functional traits. Our results indicate lower ITV of functional leaf traits within the same heterophyllous shoots compared to fully submerged leaves in a rosette form. We also noted negative correlations between SLA-LDMC and LA-circularity trait pairs, suggesting a variation–covariation pattern in leaf traits with minimal influence from water environmental factors.
Bundle Structure of Massless Unitary Representations of the Poincaré Group
Authors: Dragon Norbert
Published: June 2024

Reviewing the construction of induced representations of the Poincaré group of four-dimensional spacetime we find all massive representations, including the ones on interacting many-particle states. Massless momentum wavefunctions of non-vanishing helicity turn out to be more precisely sections of a U(1)-bundle over the massless shell, a property which to date was overlooked in quantum field theory and in bracket notation. Our traditional notation of states in Hilbert space enables questions about square integrability and smoothness. Their answers complete the picture of relativistic quantum physics. Frobenius reciprocity prohibits massless one-particle states with total angular momentum less than the modulus of the helicity. There is no two-photon state with $$J=1$$

J
=
1

, explaining the longevity of orthopositronium. Partial derivatives of the momentum wave functions are no operators in the space of massless states with nonvanishing helicity. They allow only for covariant, noncommuting derivatives. The massless shell has a noncommutative geometry with helicity being its topological charge.
Gale-Shapley Verified
Authors: Nipkow Tobias
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a detailed verification of the Gale-Shapley algorithm for stable matching (or marriage). The verification proceeds by stepwise transformation of programs and proofs. The initial steps are on the level of imperative programs, ending in a linear time algorithm. An executable functional program is obtained in a last step. The emphasis is on the stepwise development of the algorithm and the required invariants.
Genome-wide association studies meta-analysis uncovers NOJO and SGS3 novel genes involved in Arabidopsis thaliana primary root development and plasticity
Authors: López-Ruíz Brenda Anabel , García-Ponce Berenice , de la Paz Sánchez María , Álvarez-Buylla Elena R. , Urrutia Araxi O. , Garay-Arroyo Adriana
Published: June 2024

Background

Arabidopsis thaliana primary root growth has become a model for evo-devo studies due to its simplicity and facility to record cell proliferation and differentiation. To identify new genetic components relevant to primary root growth, we used a Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) meta-analysis approach using data published in the last decade. In this work, we performed intra and inter-studies analyses to discover new genetic components that could participate in primary root growth.

Methods and results

We used 639 accessions from nine different studies under control conditions and performed different GWAS tests. We found that primary root growth changes were associated with 41 genes, of which six (14.6%) have been previously described as inhibitors or promoters of primary root growth. The knockdown lines of two genes, Suppressor of Gene Silencing (SGS3), involved in tasiRNA processing, and a gene with a Sterile Alpha Motif (SAM) motif named NOJOCH MOOTS (NOJO), confirmed their role as repressors of primary root growth, none has been shown to participate in this developmental process before.

Conclusions

In summary, our GWAS analysis of different available studies identified new genes that participate in primary root growth; two of them were identified as repressors of primary root growth.
Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells attenuate hepatic stellate cells activation and liver fibrosis
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Zhang Kun , Qi Qi , Zhou Wangyi , Yu Fengshi , Zhang Yu
Published: June 2024

Background

Liver cirrhosis, a prevalent chronic liver disease, is characterized by liver fibrosis as its central pathological process. Recent advancements highlight the clinical efficacy of umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (UC-MSC) therapy in the treatment of liver cirrhosis.

Methods and results

We investigated the pharmacodynamic effects of UC-MSCs and MSC conditional medium (MSC-CM) in vivo, utilizing a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced fibrotic rat model. Concurrently, we assessed the in vitro impact of MSCs and MSC-CM on various cellular process of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), including proliferation, apoptosis, activation, immunomodulatory capabilities, and inflammatory factor secretion. Our results indicate that both MSCs and MSC-CM significantly ameliorate the pathological extent of fibrosis in animal tissues, reducing the collagen content, serum biochemical indices and fibrosis biomarkers. In vitro, MSC-CM significantly inhibited the activation of the HSC line LX-2. Notably, MSC-CM modulated the expression of type I procollagen and TGFβ-1 while increasing MMP1 expression. This modulation restored the MMP1/TIMP1 ratio imbalance and extracellular matrix deposition in TGFβ-1 induced fibrosis. Both MSCs and MSC-CM not only induced apoptosis in HSCs but also suppressed proliferation and inflammatory cytokine release from activated HSCs. Furthermore, MSCs and MSC-CM exerted a suppressive effect on total lymphocyte activation.

Conclusions

UC-MSCs and MSC-CM primarily modulate liver fibrosis severity by regulating HSC activation. This study provides both in vivo and in vitro pharmacodynamic evidence supporting the use of MSCs in liver fibrosis treatment.
Disaster and gender: men’s experiences during and after the earthquake
Authors: Usta Galip , Gunduz Fatma , Atalay Ezgi
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to discover how men’s first reflex behaviors during earthquakes and how their coping strategies were shaped after earthquakes in Türkiye. Phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the research. The data of the research were collected through a semi-structured interview form between 25.04.2023 and 15.05.2023. The study was conducted with 12 people, based on data saturation. Interviews with the participants lasted between 30 and 75 min. Four themes were created within the scope of the study. Men participate in search and rescue operations, particularly those that require physical fortitude, and in the distribution of humanitarian aid, according to the research. In this process, men felt cold-blooded and strong. It has been observed that men take more risks and put themselves at risk due to socially burdened responsibilities and their masculine characteristics. In terms of disaster risk reduction objectives and actions, the findings obtained within the framework of the difficulties encountered by men during the earthquake, coping strategies, and the impact of gender roles can be evaluated. Therefore, it is thought that investigating gender roles in disasters is important in creating disaster management policies.
Situational evaluation of teachers’ social-emotional competence: Spanish version of the test of regulation in and understanding of social situations in teaching (TRUST)
Authors: Martín-Antón Luis J. , Valdivieso Juan A. , García-Alonso Juan-Carlos , Carbonero-Martín Miguel Angel , Saíz-Manzanares María-Consuelo
Published: June 2024

Evaluating teachers’ social-emotional competence is key to studying the effectiveness of education systems. This competence tends to be measured through self-reports, which might lead to a distorted vision. As an alternative, situational judgement tests have emerged. The present work seeks to adapt the Test of Regulation in and Understanding of Social Situations in Teaching (TRUST) to Spanish. The study involved 503 teachers from schools who teach in primary (n = 198, 106 female) or secondary education (n = 305, 201 female). Average age was 45.07 (SD = 9.94), and teachers had an average of 16.77 years’ professional experience (SD = 10.17). In addition to responding to the TRUST, those who took part also responded to the ICQ-15, TEIQue-SF, and ERQ questionnaires. Confirmatory factor analysis provided a good fit of the two-factor model (emotional regulation and relationship management): χ2 (89) = 198.49, p < .001, CFI = 0.93, TLI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.049, 90% CI [0.040, 0.059], SRMR = 0.042, as well as reliability and convergent validity. Factorial invariance is seen to hold amongst both women and men as well as between teachers who teach at different stages of the education system. The Spanish version of TRUST emerges as a valid and reliable tool for measuring teachers’ level of social-emotional competence, both in the Spanish education system at basic levels as well as with Spanish-speaking teachers from various countries, since situations are presented which are common in any type of school.