bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioural Genetics
Authors: Nordell Shawn E. , Valone Thomas J.
Published: October 2023

This chapter focuses on behavioral genetics, which looks into how genes and the environment contribute to differences in behavioral phenotypic value. The heritability of a trait is proportionate to phenotypic variations and genetic influences. Additive, dominance, and epistatic effects are genetic factors affecting phenotypic variations. The knockout technique gives an understanding of how genetic variation is associated with behavioral variation by disabling a gene and examining its effect on behavior. The chapter also explains environment influences behavior through gene expression, while the genomic approach correlates gene expression with behavioral phenotypes. Additionally, the chapter notes that genes can restrict behavioral flexibility.
Parental Care
Authors: Nordell Shawn E. , Valone Thomas J.
Published: October 2023

This chapter discusses parental care, which includes the range of an adult animal's activities that improve the survivorship of offspring. Parental care ranges from nourishing, incubating eggs, to defending them from predators. According to life history theory, species differ in their levels of giving care to their young. The chapter also explains how sexual conflict is the foundation for sex-based parental care. It also notes that the level of paternity certainty influences male parental care. Parent-offspring conflict theory shows that the investment of the parents and young differ in terms of selection pressures. On the other hand, brood parasitism lessens the cost of parental care, which eventually results in a co-evolutionary arms race.
Sociality
Authors: Nordell Shawn E. , Valone Thomas J.
Published: October 2023

This chapter looks at the sociality of animals. It highlights the benefits of group living like foraging success, reduced movement costs, safety from predators, and potential for individual specialization. However, the costs of sociality are increased competition for resources, aggressive interactions, and higher transmissibility of diseases. The chapter also tackles how sociality can evolve through ecology, phylogeny, and the fitness advantages of close associations exceeding the costs such as resources and foods. Dominance hierarchies, moreover, could lessen the social costs of aggression in line with living in groups. Numerous social groups with dominant hierarchies could also reduce their cost of living with others. Additionally, hormones could regulate social behavior.
The Nucleus
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

10.1 The Nuclear Envelope and Traffic between the Nucleus and the Cytoplasm

10.2 The Organization of Chromatin

10.3 Nuclear Bodies

MOLECULAR MEDICINE

Nuclear Lamina Diseases

KEY EXPERIMENT

Identification of Nuclear Localization Signals

The presence of a nucleus is the principal feature that distinguishes eukaryotic from...
Cell Renewal and Cell Death
Authors: Cooper Geoffrey M. , Adams Kenneth W.
Published: October 2023

18.1 Stem Cells and the Maintenance of Adult Tissues

18.2 Pluripotent Stem Cells, Cellular Reprogramming, and Regenerative Medicine

18.3 Programmed Cell Death

KEY EXPERIMENT

Culture of Embryonic Stem Cells

KEY EXPERIMENT

Identification of Genes Required for Programmed Cell Death

Cell proliferation and cell death occur...
The Evolution of Genes and Genomes
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

The douc langur (Pygathrix nemaeus) is arguably the world’s most beautiful primate. It has an unusual adaptation to its diet of leaves: a duplicated gene that allows it to efficiently digest the bacteria that ferment leaves in the monkey’s gut.
All About Sex
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

Sexual displays are among the most remarkable sights in nature. Here a male flame bowerbird (Sericulus ardens) impresses a female with his remarkable display. She is observing from a bower (not a nest), which is an elaborate structure he built to attract females....
Evolution and Society
Authors: Futuyma Douglas J. , Kirkpatrick Mark
Published: October 2023

Human activities are having enormous effects on nature, including extinction of many species. This leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) is returning to the sea after laying her eggs. Like all sea turtles, this species is highly endangered.
Obesity, Sarcopenia and Myosteatosis: Impact on Clinical Outcomes in the Operative Management of Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Donnelly Mark , Driever Dorothee , Ryan Éanna J , Elliott Jessie A , Finnegan John , McNamara Deirdre , Murphy Ian , Conlon Kevin C , Neary Paul C , Kavanagh Dara O , O’Riordan James M
Published: October 2023

Background

Obesity, sarcopenia, and myosteatosis in inflammatory bowel disease may confer negative outcomes, but their prevalence and impact among patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) have not been systematically studied. The aim of this study was to assess nutritional status and body composition among patients undergoing resectional surgery for CD and determine impact on operative outcomes.

Methods

Consecutive patients with CD undergoing resection from 2000 to 2018 were studied. Total, subcutaneous, and visceral fat areas and lean tissue area (LTA) and intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) were determined preoperatively by computed tomography at L3 using SliceOmatic (Tomovision, Canada). Univariable and multivariable linear, logistic, and Cox proportional hazards regression were performed.

Results

One hundred twenty-four consecutive patients were studied (ileocolonic disease 53%, n = 62, biologic therapy 34.4% n = 43). Mean fat mass was 22.7 kg, with visceral obesity evident in 23.9% (n = 27). Increased fat stores were associated with reduced risk of emergency presentation but increased corticosteroid use (β 9.09, standard error 3.49; P = .011). Mean LBM was 9.9 kg. Sarcopenia and myosteatosis were associated with impaired baseline nutritional markers. Myosteatosis markers IMAT (P = .002) and muscle attenuation (P = .0003) were associated with increased grade of complication. On multivariable analysis, IMAT was independently associated with increased postoperative morbidity (odds ratio [OR], 1.08; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.01-1.16; P = .037) and comprehensive complications index (P = .029). Measures of adiposity were not associated with overall morbidity; however, increased visceral fat area independently predicted venous thromboembolism (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.05; P = .028), and TFA was associated with increased wound infection (OR, 1.00; 95% CI, 1.00-1.01; P = .042) on multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

Myosteatosis is associated with nutritional impairment and predicts increased overall postoperative morbidity following resection for CD. Despite its association with specific increased postoperative risks, increased adiposity does not increase overall morbidity, reflecting preservation of nutritional status and relatively more quiescent disease phenotype. Impaired muscle mass and function represent an appealing target for patient optimization to improve outcomes in the surgical management of CD.
Get Fit: Muscle Health for Crohn’s Disease Surgical Outcome Optimization
Authors: Massironi Sara , Sileri Pierpaolo , Danese Silvio
Published: October 2023

Lay Summary

Muscular health, encompassing sarcopenia and myosteatosis, has a pivotal role in optimizing surgical outcomes in patients with Crohn’s disease. A comprehensive approach is advocated for improving patient well-being after surgery.
Longitudinal Trends in Pregnancy Outcomes Among Women With Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the Era of Biologics: A 20-Year Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Prakash Preeti , Dua Anoushka , Blumenfeld Yair , Chen Po-Hung , Parian Alyssa M , Limketkai Berkeley N
Published: October 2023

Background

Many women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are diagnosed by their reproductive years. Prior literature suggests that women with IBD may be at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Biologics have revolutionized IBD treatment, and current evidence favors continuation during pregnancy. We sought to examine trends in pregnancy outcomes over 20 years with the evolution of IBD treatment.

Methods

Using the National Inpatient Sample, IBD and non-IBD obstetric hospitalizations were identified between 1998 and 2018 using International Classification of Diseases 9 and 10 codes. Outcomes of interest included cesarean delivery, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia/eclampsia, premature rupture of membranes (PROM), preterm delivery, fetal growth restriction (FGR), fetal distress, and stillbirth. Stratified by Crohn’s disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and non-IBD deliveries, temporal trends and multivariable logistic regression were analyzed.

Results

There were 48 986 CD patients, 30 998 UC patients, and 69 963,805 non-IBD patients. Between 1998 and 2018, CD deliveries increased from 3.3 to 12.9 per 10 000 deliveries (P < 0.001) and UC deliveries increased from 2.3 to 8.6 per 10 000 deliveries (P < 0.001). Cesarean deliveries, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia/eclampsia, PROM, FGR, and fetal distress increased over time for IBD and non-IBD women, while preterm deliveries decreased (P < 0.001). Multivariable analyses demonstrated that IBD patients had higher risk of cesarean delivery, preeclampsia/eclampsia, PROM, and preterm delivery compared with non-IBD patients.

Conclusion

Over a 20-year period, live deliveries amongst women with IBD have increased. Trends in pregnancy outcomes have followed a similar trajectory in patients with and without IBD. However, there is still demonstrable risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with IBD.
Enteric Infection at Flare of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Impacts Outcomes at 2 Years
Authors: Dimopoulos-Verma Abhishek , Hong Soonwook , Axelrad Jordan E
Published: October 2023

Background

Outcomes of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) following flare complicated by enteric infection (EI) are limited by follow-up duration and insufficient assessment of the role of non-Clostridioides difficile pathogens. We compared 2-year IBD outcomes following flare with and without EI.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adults evaluated with stool PCR testing for IBD flare. Subjects were stratified by presence of EI at flare and were matched for age, sex, and date to those without EI. The primary outcome was a composite of steroid-dependent IBD, colectomy, and/or IBD therapy class change/dose escalation at 2 years. Additional analyses were performed by dividing the EI group into C. difficile infection (CDI) and non-CDI EI, and further subdividing non-CDI EI into E. coli subtypes and other non-CDI EI.

Results

We identified 137 matched subjects, of whom 62 (45%) had EI (40 [29%] CDI; 17 [12%] E. coli). Enteric infection at flare was independently associated with the primary outcome (adjusted odds ratio, 4.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.62-11.5). After dividing EI into CDI and non-CDI EI, only CDI at flare was independently associated with the primary outcome (adjusted odds ratio, 4.04; 95% CI, 1.46-12.6). After separating E. coli subtypes from non-CDI EI, E. coli infection and CDI at flare were both independently associated with the primary outcome; other EI was not.

Conclusions

Enteric infection at flare—specifically with CDI—is associated with worse IBD outcomes at 2 years. The relationship between E. coli subtypes at flare and subsequent IBD outcomes requires further investigation.
Statelessness and Nationality Matters in the context of Migration between Northern Africa and Spain
Authors: Remi Njiki Michel
Published: October 2023

This article explores the problems linked with the determination of nationality and the condition of statelessness in a complex setting characterized by undocumented migration, such as the transit zone around the Strait of Gibraltar, between North Africa and the southern borders of Spain. The States immediately concerned are Morocco and Spain, although the situation affects many other neighbouring States in North Africa. The study suggests that without a precise mechanism to separate regimes between ordinary migrants and migrants who need international protection, such States fail to fulfil their international obligations regarding stateless persons and other undocumented migrants.
Regulation of the pigment production by changing Cell morphology and gene expression of Monascus ruber in high-sugar synergistic high-salt stress fermentation
Authors: Chen Gong , Zhao Wenqian , Zhao Lu , Song Da , Chen Ben , Zhao Xihong , Hu Ting
Published: October 2023

Aims

Extreme environment of microbial fermentation is the focus of research, which provides new thinking for the production and application of Monascus pigments (MPs). In this work, the high-sugar synergistic high-salt stress fermentation (HSSF) of MPs was investigated.

Methods and results

The Monascus fungus grew well under HSSF conditions with 35 g L−1 NaCl and 150 g L−1 glucose, and the extracellular yellow pigment and intracellular orange pigment yield in HSSF was 98% and 43% higher than that in conventional fermentation, respectively. Moreover, the mycelial morphology was maintained in a better status with more branches and complete surface structure, indicating good biocatalytic activity for pigment synthesis. Four extracellular yellow pigments (Y1, Y2, Y3, and Y4) were transformed into each other, and ratio of the relative content of intracellular orange pigments to yellow pigments (O/Y) significantly (P < 0.05) changed. Moreover, the ratio of unsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acids (unsaturated/saturated) was significantly (P < 0.05) increased, indicating that the metabolism and secretion of intracellular and extracellular pigment might be regulated in HSSF. The pigment biosynthesis genes mppB, mppC, mppD, MpPKS5, and MpFasB2 were up-regulated, whereas the genes mppR1, mppR2, and mppE were down-regulated, suggesting that the gene expression to regulate pigment biosynthesis might be a dynamic change process in HSSF.

Conclusions

The HSSF system of MPs is successfully performed to improve the pigment yields. Mycelial morphology is varied to enhanced pigment secretion, and gene expression is dynamically regulated to promote pigment accumulation in HSSF.
The Admission of New Prosecutorial Evidence in International Criminal Retrials
Authors: Sinclair-Blakemore Adaena
Published: October 2023

On 31 May 2023, the Appeals Chamber of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT) delivered its judgment in Stanišić and Simatović, marking the conclusion of the first full retrial in the history of international criminal law and providing occasion to reflect on how retrials before the International Criminal Court and other international criminal tribunals ought to be conducted. The focus of this article pertains to the Trial Chamber’s approach to the admissibility of new prosecutorial evidence during the course of the retrial, and specifically, its decision to exclude all new prosecutorial evidence from the scope of the retrial, unless exceptional circumstances justified its admission. This article questions whether the adoption of this exclusionary rule was a valid exercise of the Trial Chamber’s discretion and, from a normative standpoint, whether such a decision was and remains a desirable approach to the admissibility of prosecutorial evidence in international criminal retrials. This article argues that despite the strong and persistent objections raised by the prosecution during the Stanišić and Simatović retrial, the exclusionary rule constituted a valid exercise of the Trial Chamber’s powers and could serve as a blueprint for the admissibility of new prosecutorial evidence in potential future retrials.
Autonomous Weapon Systems, Errors and Breaches of International Humanitarian Law
Authors: George Jain Abhimanyu
Published: October 2023

An error in the operation of an autonomous weapon system (AWS) results in civilians or civilian objects being attacked. In such situations, have civilians or civilian objects been ‘made the object of attack’, such that there is a breach of the rule prohibiting attacks against civilians or civilian objects? This question — which is important because of the high probability of such errors — forms the subject of this article. It argues that the rule prohibiting attacks against civilians or civilian objects requires due diligence — contextually reasonable efforts — across the targeting process, to ensure that civilians or civilian objects are not attacked. This implies that AWS errors breach this rule if the errors are unreasonable, i.e., if they originate in a failure of due diligence at any point in the process of development and deployment of AWS. Moreover, the risk-sensitivity of due diligence obligations suggests that the higher degree of risk involved in the development and use of an AWS leads to a corresponding increase in what constitutes contextually reasonable efforts to ensure that civilians or civilian objects are not attacked.
Genetic evidence for variability in the social mating system of the Midday Gerbil (Meriones meridianus)
Authors: Yu Peng , Miao Fei , Kong Zixuan , Cao Ruidong , Chen Peng
Published: October 2023

Social mating systems (e.g., monogamy, polygamy, or polyandry) are relatively stable behavioral strategies developed by environmental in animals, but the genetic imprint of a particular mating system is often incongruent with the social mating system due to extrapair matings. However, the genetics of mating systems remain little understood in rodents. In this study, we investigated the genetic signature of the mating system of 141 (63 females, 78 males) field-captured midday gerbils (Meriones meridianus)—a rodent species commonly found in the Minqin Desert in China—through microsatellite site analyses of genetic structure and relatedness. Seven pairs of highly polymorphic microsatellite loci were selected and were highly polymorphic, with the combined exclusion probability greater than 0.99. The parent pair paternity test by Cervus 3.0 software show that 11 mother–offspring and nine father–offspring relationships were identified in 2018, involving 26 individuals from 10 families. Similarly, 19 mother–offspring and 19 father–offspring relationships were identified in 2019, involving 48 individuals from 18 families. All three types of genetic mating structure were identified—monogamy (19 families), polyandry (4 families), and polygyny (5 families), providing evidence that the genetics underlying mating systems in this species are variable, can be incongruent with behavioral evidence for social mating systems, and could vary based on environmental cues, including degree of perceived or actual predation.
Jamestown Canyon virus comes into view: understanding the threat from an underrecognized arbovirus
Authors: Shepard John J , Armstrong Philip M
Published: October 2023

This review examines the epidemiology, ecology, and evolution of Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) and highlights new findings from the literature to better understand the virus, the vectors driving its transmission, and its emergence as an agent of arboviral disease. We also reanalyze data from the Connecticut Arbovirus Surveillance Program which represents the largest dataset on JCV infection in mosquitoes. JCV is a member of the California serogroup of the genus Orthobunyavirus, family Peribunyaviridae, and is found throughout much of temperate North America. This segmented, negative-sense RNA virus evolves predominately by genetic drift punctuated by infrequent episodes of genetic reassortment among novel strains. It frequently infects humans within affected communities and occasionally causes febrile illness and neuroinvasive disease in people. Reported human cases are relatively rare but are on the rise during the last 20 yr, particularly within the northcentral and northeastern United States. JCV appears to overwinter and reemerge each season by transovarial or vertical transmission involving univoltine Aedes (Diptera: Culicidae) species, specifically members of the Aedes communis (de Geer) and Ae. stimulans (Walker) Groups. The virus is further amplified in a mosquito-deer transmission cycle involving a diversity of mammalophilic mosquito species. Despite progress in our understanding of this virus, many aspects of the vector biology, virology, and human disease remain poorly understood. Remaining questions and future directions of research are discussed.
La Crosse virus neuroinvasive disease: the kids are not alright
Authors: Day Corey A , Byrd Brian D , Trout Fryxell Rebecca T
Published: October 2023

La Crosse virus (LACV) is the most common cause of neuroinvasive mosquito-borne disease in children within the United States. Despite more than 50 years of recognized endemicity in the United States, the true burden of LACV disease is grossly underappreciated, and there remain severe knowledge gaps that inhibit public health interventions to reduce morbidity and mortality. Long-standing deficiencies in disease surveillance, clinical diagnostics and therapeutics, actionable entomologic and environmental risk indices, case response capacity, public awareness, and availability of community support groups clearly frame LACV disease as neglected. Here we synthesize salient prior research and contextualize our findings as an assessment of current gaps and opportunities to develop a framework to prevent, detect, and respond to LACV disease. The persistent burdens of LACV disease clearly require renewed public health attention, policy, and action.
Myth or truth: investigation of the jumping ability of Tunga penetrans (Siphonaptera: Tungidae)
Authors: Hyuga Ayako , Ouma Paul , Matharu Abneel K , Krücken Jürgen , Kaneko Satoshi , Goto Kensuke , Fillinger Ulrike
Published: October 2023

Female sand fleas (Tunga penetrans Linnaeus, 1758, Siphonaptera: Tungidae) cause a severe parasitic skin disease known as tungiasis. T. penetrans is a small flea, measuring less than 1 mm in length. The females of this species burrow into the skin of human and animal hosts and mostly affect the feet. This has led to the anecdotal assumption that T. penetrans, unlike its relatives in the Siphonaptera family, would have a limited jumping ability potentially not reaching higher body parts. However, there is no data supporting this. This study evaluated the jumping capabilities of T. penetrans for height and distance using sticky tapes. The vertical jump of the female T. penetrans ranged from 4.5 to 100 mm with a mean of 40 mm whereas the vertical jump of the male T. penetrans ranged from 1.2 to 138 mm with a mean of 46 mm. The horizontal jump of the female T. penetrans ranged from 18 to 138 mm with a mean of 64 mm and that of the male ranged from 9 to 251 mm with a mean of 80 mm. Based on the literature, fleas of various species have been described as jumping vertically 50–100 times their size and horizontally 5–100 times their size. In this respect, sand fleas appear to have equal expert jumping abilities to their relatives. Their aggregation on people’s feet is not likely a result of their poor jumping ability but might be an adaptation to the host’s behavior which would require further investigations.
Hydroxyapatite-based nano-drug delivery system for nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN): significantly enhancing NMN bioavailability and replenishing in vivo nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels
Authors: Zhang Da , Yau Lee-Fong , Bai Long-Bo , Tong Tian-Tian , Cao Kai-Yue , Yan Tong-Meng , Zeng Ling , Jiang Zhi-Hong
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study addresses the bioavailability challenges associated with oral nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) administration by introducing an innovative NMN formulation incorporated with hydroxyapatite (NMN–HAP).

Methods

The NMN–HAP was developed using a wet chemical precipitation and physical adsorption method. To assess its superiority over conventional free NMN, we examined NMN, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), and nicotinamide riboside (NR) levels in mouse plasma and tissues following oral administration of NMN–HAP.

Key findings

NMN–HAP nanoparticles demonstrated a rod-shaped morphology, with an average size of ~50 nm, along with encapsulation efficiency and drug loading capacity exceeding 40%. In vitro, drug release results indicated that NMN–HAP exhibited significantly lower release compared with free NMN. In vivo studies showed that NMN–HAP extended circulation time, improved bioavailability compared with free NMN, and elevated plasma levels of NMN, NAD+, and NR. Moreover, NMN–HAP administration displayed tissue-specific distribution with a substantial accumulation of NMN, NAD+, and NR in the brain and liver.

Conclusion

NMN–HAP represents an ideal formulation for enhancing NMN bioavailability, enabling tissue-specific delivery, and ultimately elevating in vivo NAD+ levels. Considering HAP’s biocompatible nature and versatile characteristics, we anticipate that this system has significant potential for various future applications.
Another look at bandwidth-free inference: a sample splitting approach
Authors: Zhang Yi , Shao Xiaofeng
Published: October 2023

The bandwidth-free tests for a multi-dimensional parameter have attracted considerable attention in econometrics and statistics literature. These tests can be conveniently implemented due to their tuning-parameter free nature and possess more accurate size as compared to the traditional heteroskedasticity and autocorrelation consistent-based approaches. However, when sample size is small/medium, these bandwidth-free tests exhibit large size distortion when both the dimension of the parameter and the magnitude of temporal dependence are moderate, making them unreliable to use in practice. In this paper, we propose a sample splitting-based approach to reduce the dimension of the parameter to one for the subsequent bandwidth-free inference. Our SS–SN (sample splitting plus self-normalisation) idea is broadly applicable to many testing problems for time series, including mean testing, testing for zero autocorrelation, and testing for a change point in multivariate mean, among others. Specifically, we propose two types of SS–SN test statistics and derive their limiting distributions under both the null and alternatives and show their effectiveness in alleviating size distortion via simulations. In addition, we obtain the limiting distributions for both SS–SN test statistics in the multivariate mean testing problem when the dimension is allowed to diverge.
Results of polarimetric and photometric observations of NEAs 162082 (1998 HL1), 163373 (2002 PZ39), 52768 (1982 OR2), and 159402 (1999 AP10)
Authors: Kiselev N N , Savushkin A A , Petrov D V , Antoniuk K A , Zhuzhulina E V , Karpov N V , Afanasiev V L
Published: October 2023

We present the results of polarimetric and photometric observations of four near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) 162082 (1998 HL1), 163373 (2002 PZ39), 52768 (1982 OR2), and 159402 (1999 AP10). The observations were carried out at the 2.6-m and 1.25-m telescopes of the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory, the 2.0-m telescope of the Peak Terskol Observatory, and the 6-m telescope of the Special Astrophysical Observatory during the period of 2019–2020. The phase angles covered in the observations were 3°–27°, 69°–109°, 70°–76°, and 32°–72° for NEAs 162082, 163373, 52768, and 159402, respectively. We estimated the main polarimetric parameters of the phase curves for each asteroid. The geometrical albedo for NEAs 162082, 163373, and 159402 were found to be 0.348 ± 0.050, 0.192 ± 0.050, and 0.124 ± 0.020, respectively. The diameters for asteroids 162082, 163373, 52768, and 159402 were determined as 0.37 ± 0.05, 0.50 ± 0.05, 2.61 ± 0.20, and 2.27 ± 0.20 km, respectively. The polarization data for NEA 52768 and 159402 are similar. Their orbital elements a, e, q, and periods for these asteroids also showed close similarities, indicating a potential common parent body in the past. We found deviation of the polarization of NEAs 163373, 52768, and 159402 from the synthetic phase dependences of the polarization of the main taxonomic С, S, and E classes. To explain this, the modified Sh-matrix method was used. The computer simulation has shown that different values of the maximum of positive polarization of asteroids can be explained by different content of highly absorbing carbon matter.
Non-ideal magnetohydrodynamics on a moving mesh I: ohmic and ambipolar diffusion
Authors: Zier Oliver , Springel Volker , Mayer Alexander C
Published: October 2023

Especially in cold and high-density regions, the assumptions of ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) can break down, making first order non-ideal terms such as ohmic and ambipolar diffusion as well as the Hall effect important. In this study, we present a new numerical scheme for the first two resistive terms, which we implement in the moving-mesh code arepo using the single-fluid approximation combined with a new gradient estimation technique based on a least-squares fit per interface. Through various test calculations including the diffusion of a magnetic peak, the structure of a magnetic C-shock, and the damping of an Alfvén wave, we show that we can achieve an accuracy comparable to the state-of-the-art code athena++ . We apply the scheme to the linear growth of the magnetorotational instability and find good agreement with the analytical growth rates. By simulating the collapse of a magnetized cloud with constant magnetic diffusion, we show that the new scheme is stable even for large contrasts in the spatial resolution. Thanks to the Lagrangian nature of the moving mesh method the new scheme is thus well suited for intended future applications where a high resolution in the dense cores of collapsing protostellar clouds needs to be achieved. In a forthcoming work, we will extend the scheme to include the Hall effect.
Resveratrol: biology, metabolism, and detrimental role on the tumor microenvironment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Dariya Begum , Girish Bala Prabhakar , Merchant Neha , Srilatha Mundla , Nagaraju Ganji Purnachandra
Published: October 2023

A substantial increase in colorectal cancer (CRC)–associated fatalities can be attributed to tumor recurrence and multidrug resistance. Traditional treatment options, including radio- and chemotherapy, also exhibit adverse side effects. Ancient treatment strategies that include phytochemicals like resveratrol are now widely encouraged as an alternative therapeutic option. Resveratrol is the natural polyphenolic stilbene in vegetables and fruits like grapes and apples. It inhibits CRC progression via targeting dysregulated cancer-promoting pathways, including PI3K/Akt/Kras, targeting transcription factors like NF-κB and STAT3, and an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In addition, combination therapies for cancer include resveratrol as an adjuvant to decrease multidrug resistance that develops in CRC cells. The current review discusses the biology of resveratrol and explores different mechanisms of action of resveratrol in inhibiting CRC progression. Further, the detrimental role of resveratrol on the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of CRC has been discussed. This review illustrates clinical trials on resveratrol in different cancers, including resveratrol analogs, and their efficiency in promoting CRC inhibition.
Transparency and the Mindfulness Opacity Hypothesis
Authors: Lange Victor , Grünbaum Thor
Published: October 2023

Many philosophers endorse the Transparency Thesis, the claim that by introspection one cannot become aware of one's experience. Recently, some authors have suggested that the Transparency Thesis is challenged by introspective states reached under mindfulness. We label this the Mindfulness Opacity Hypothesis. The present paper develops the hypothesis in important new ways. First, we motivate the hypothesis by drawing on recent clinical psychology and cognitive science of mindfulness. Secondly, we develop the hypothesis by describing the implied shift in experiential perspective, the scope of introspectable qualities, and the level of skill. Thirdly, we defend the hypothesis against various philosophical arguments. We conclude that the Mindfulness Opacity Hypothesis is empirically and theoretically well motivated and supported.
Friends with the Good: Moral Relativism and Moral Progress
Authors: Pérez-Navarro Eduardo
Published: October 2023

The aim of this paper is to defend moral relativism from the accusation that it would make it irrational to classify past changes in public opinion as instances of moral progress, for they would constitute an improvement only from our current point of view. The argument is this. For our assessment of a change in public opinion as an instance of moral progress to be rational, we need to take the moral claims made before the change to be false simpliciter while being open to the possibility that we ourselves change our minds at some point. These two things can be made compatible if we construe moral relativism as taking the truth of moral claims to be relative to the context of assessment. Thus understood, moral relativism is in fact the only view that makes room for talk of moral progress, as the rest of candidate positions make it irrational.
Affected cortico-striatal-cerebellar network in schizophrenia with catatonia revealed by magnetic resonance imaging: indications for electroconvulsive therapy and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Liu Xiao-Fan , Zhao Shu-Wan , Kratochvil Zachary , Jiang Jia-Cheng , Cui Di , Wang Lu , Fan Jing-Wen , Gu Yue-Wen , Yin Hong , Cui Jin-Jin , Chang Xiao , Cui Long-Biao
Published: October 2023

Catatonia is a psychomotor syndrome that can occur in a broad spectrum of brain disorders, including schizophrenia. Current findings suggest that the neurobiological process underlying catatonia symptoms in schizophrenia is poorly understood. However, emerging neuroimaging studies in catatonia patients have indicated that a disruption in anatomical connectivity of the cortico-striatal-cerebellar system is part of the neurobiology of catatonia, which could serve as a target of neurostimulation such as electroconvulsive therapy and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Combinations and Temporal Associations Among Precursor Symptoms Before a First Episode of Psychosis
Authors: Paquin Vincent , Malla Ashok K , Iyer Srividya N , Lepage Martin , Joober Ridha , Shah Jai L
Published: October 2023

Background and Hypothesis

Symptoms that precede a first episode of psychosis (FEP) can ideally be targeted by early intervention services with the aim of preventing or delaying psychosis onset. However, these precursor symptoms emerge in combinations and sequences that do not rest fully within traditional diagnostic categories. To advance our understanding of illness trajectories preceding FEP, we aimed to investigate combinations and temporal associations among precursor symptoms.

Study Design

Participants were from PEPP-Montréal, a catchment-based early intervention program for FEP. Through semistructured interviews, collateral from relatives, and a review of health and social records, we retrospectively measured the presence or absence of 29 precursor symptoms, including 9 subthreshold psychotic and 20 nonpsychotic symptoms. Sequences of symptoms were derived from the timing of the first precursor symptom relative to the onset of FEP.

Study Results

The sample included 390 participants (68% men; age range: 14–35 years). Combinations of precursor symptoms most frequently featured depression, anxiety, and substance use. Of 256 possible pairs of initial and subsequent precursor symptoms, many had asymmetrical associations: eg, when the first symptom was suspiciousness, the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of subsequent anxiety was 3.40 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.79, 6.46), but when the first symptom was anxiety, the IRR of subsequent suspiciousness was 1.15 (95% CI: 0.77, 1.73).

Conclusions

A detailed examination of precursor symptoms reveals diverse clinical profiles that cut across diagnostic categories and evolve longitudinally prior to FEP. Their identification may contribute to risk assessments and provide insights into the mechanisms of illness progression.
Retrospective Data Analysis of the Use of an Autologous Multilayered Leukocyte, Platelet, and Fibrin Patch for Diabetic Foot Ulcers Treatment in Daily Clinical Practice
Authors: Mendivil Jason M. , Henderson Lorena C. , Olivas Orion S. , Deanda Mia A. , Johnson Martin L.
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVE

To describe the healing outcome of chronic, hard-to-heal diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) treated with an autologous multilayered leukocyte, platelet, and fibrin (MLPF) patch in addition to the best standard of care, in a real-world clinical setting of two US amputation preventive centers.

METHODS

In this retrospective study of patients treated between September 2021 and October 2022, the authors analyzed DFU healing outcomes based on Wound, Ischemia, and foot Infection-derived amputation risk.

RESULTS

All 36 patients had a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and 29 (81%) were male. Their average age was 61.4 years, body mass index was 29.2 kg/m2, and glycated hemoglobin was 7.9. Twenty-seven patients (78%) were diagnosed with peripheral vascular disease, 20 (56%) underwent a peripheral vascular procedure, 15 (42%) had a prior amputation, and 6 (17%) were on hemodialysis. Average wound size was 4.9 cm2, and wound age was 9.5 months. Twelve patients (32%) were classified as low risk, 15 (39%) as moderate risk, and 11 (29%) as high risk for amputation. Within 12 weeks of the first MLPF patch application, nine wounds (24%) healed. After 20 weeks, 23 wounds (61%) were closed, and by follow-up, 30 wounds (79%) healed. No amputations were noted. Compared with published data, 40% fewer patients underwent readmission within 30 days, with 72% shorter admission duration.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-world clinical experiences using the MLPF patch to treat hard-to-heal DFUs resulted in the majority of wounds healing. Few patients experienced a readmission within 30 days, and the average admission duration was short.
Driving Hospital-Acquired Pressure Injuries to Zero: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Aningalan Alexis M. , Gannon Brittany (Ray)
Published: October 2023

OBJECTIVE

To implement a collaborative, interdisciplinary team approach to reducing hospital-acquired pressure injuries (HAPIs) through nurse empowerment and engagement.

METHODS

This quality improvement project was conducted at a 288-bed community hospital. The Donabedian model was used to design this intervention. The authors used a collaborative, interdisciplinary team approach for pressure injury prevention and management, utilizing nurse empowerment and engagement as driving forces to reduce HAPI rates.

RESULTS

The incidence of HAPI decreased from a peak of 5.30% in April 2019 down to 0% from August 2019 to December 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

Pressure injuries are key quality indicators for patient safety and avoidance of patient harm. Through nurse empowerment and engagement, HAPIs were avoided, resulting in improved quality care outcomes and maintenance of a safe patient environment.
Cochlear Implant Users can Effectively Combine Place and Timing Cues for Pitch Perception
Authors: Goldsworthy Raymond L. , Bissmeyer Susan R. S.
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

The study objective was to characterize cochlear implant (CI) pitch perception for pure, complex, and modulated tones for frequencies and fundamental frequencies in the ecologically essential range between 110 and 440 Hz. Stimulus manipulations were used to examine CI users’ reliance on stimulation place and rate cues for pitch discrimination.

Design:

The study was a within-subjects design with 21 CI users completing pitch discrimination measures using pure, complex, and modulated tones. Stimulus manipulations were used to test whether CI users have better pitch discrimination for low-pass compared with high-pass filtered harmonic complexes, and to test whether they have better pitch discrimination when provided a covarying place cue when listening to amplitude-modulated tones.

Results:

Averaged across conditions, participants had better pitch discrimination for pure tones compared with either complex or amplitude-modulated tones. Participants had better pitch discrimination for low-pass compared with high-pass harmonic complexes and better pitch discrimination for amplitude-modulated tones when provided a covarying place cue.

Conclusions:

CI users integrate place and rate cues across the ecologically essential pitch range between 110 and 440 Hz. We interpret the observed better pitch discrimination for low-pass compared with high-pass filtered harmonics complexes, and for amplitude-modulated tones when provided a covarying place cue, as evidence for the importance of providing place-of-excitation cues for fundamental frequencies below 440 Hz. Discussion considers how such encoding could be implemented with existing devices.
Evaluation of Asymmetries in Speech-in Noise Abilities in Audiologic Screening for Vestibular Schwannoma
Authors: Jason Qian Z. , Vaisbuch Yona , Gianakas Steven P. , Tran Emma D. , Ali Noor-E-Seher , Blevins Nikolas H. , Fitzgerald Matthew B.
Published: October 2023

Objectives:

Measures of speech-in-noise, such as the QuickSIN, are increasingly common tests of speech perception in audiologic practice. However, the effect of vestibular schwannoma (VS) on speech-in-noise abilities is unclear. Here, we compare the predictive ability of interaural QuickSIN asymmetry for detecting VS against other measures of audiologic asymmetry.

Methods:

A retrospective review of patients in our institution who received QuickSIN testing in addition to a regular audiologic battery between September 2015 and February 2019 was conducted. Records for patients with radiographically confirmed, unilateral, pretreatment VSs were identified. The remaining records excluding conductive pathologies were used as controls. The predictive abilities of various measures of audiologic asymmetry to detect VS were statistically compared.

Results:

Our search yielded 73 unique VS patients and 2423 controls. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that QuickSIN asymmetry was more sensitive and specific than pure-tone average asymmetry and word-recognition-in-quiet asymmetry for detecting VS. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that QuickSIN asymmetry was more predictive of VS (odds ratio [OR] = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.10, 1.38], p < 0.001) than pure-tone average asymmetry (OR = 1.04, 95% CI [1.00, 1.07], p = 0.025) and word-recognition-in-quiet asymmetry (OR = 1.03, 95% CI [0.99, 1.06], p = 0.064).

Conclusion:

Between-ear asymmetries in the QuickSIN appear to be more efficient than traditional measures of audiologic asymmetry for identifying patients with VS. These results suggest that speech-in noise testing could be integrated into clinical practice without hindering the ability to identify retrocochlear pathology.
Readiness of nociceptor cell bodies to generate spontaneous activity results from background activity of diverse ion channels and high input resistance
Authors: Tian Jinbin , Bavencoffe Alexis G. , Zhu Michael X. , Walters Edgar T.
Published: October 2023

Nociceptor cell bodies generate “spontaneous” discharge that can promote ongoing pain in persistent pain conditions. Little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Recordings from nociceptor cell bodies (somata) dissociated from rodent and human dorsal root ganglia have shown that previous pain in vivo is associated with low-frequency discharge controlled by irregular depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations of membrane potential (DSFs), likely produced by transient inward currents across the somal input resistance. Using mouse nociceptors, we show that DSFs are associated with high somal input resistance over a wide range of membrane potentials, including depolarized levels where DSFs approach action potential (AP) threshold. Input resistance and both the amplitude and frequency of DSFs were increased in neurons exhibiting spontaneous activity. Ion substitution experiments indicated that the depolarizing phase of DSFs is generated by spontaneous opening of channels permeable to Na+ or Ca2+ and that Ca2+-permeable channels are especially important for larger DSFs. Partial reduction of the amplitude or frequency of DSFs by perfusion of pharmacological inhibitors indicated small but significant contributions from Nav1.7, Nav1.8, TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPM4, and N-type Ca2+ channels. Less specific blockers suggested a contribution from NALCN channels, and global knockout suggested a role for Nav1.9. The combination of high somal input resistance plus background activity of diverse ion channels permeable to Na+ or Ca2+ produces DSFs that are poised to reach AP threshold if resting membrane potential depolarizes, AP threshold decreases, or DSFs become enhanced—all of which can occur under painful neuropathic and inflammatory conditions.
Murine Models of Infantile Hemangioma: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Nie Wen-Jia , Zhang Xin-Yue , Xia Yu-Ting , Jiang Bi-ling , Cai Zhen , Liu Yan , Hasen Ayan , Tao Juan , Li Yan
Published: October 2023

Infantile hemangioma is the most common benign vascular tumor of infancy and is characterized by a unique life cycle. Animal models that reflect the histological and biological characteristics of infantile hemangioma are critical tools for preclinical studies. Various infantile hemangioma animal models have been developed and improved during the past few decades. However, very few reports have provided practical suggestions for selecting a suitable animal model based on the study purpose. This comprehensive review summarizes the construction methods and application scenarios of different models. The advantages and disadvantages of each model are fully discussed, providing a reference for choosing the most applicable animal model for infantile hemangioma-associated research.
Pulsed dye laser (PDL) versus photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the treatment of port wine stain (PWS): a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Yi-Di , Wang Ying , Zeng Jing , Li Hui , Qiu Hai-Xia , Gu Ying
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Vascular lesions, such as port wine stain (PWS), lead to facial and psychological problems that require careful and timely treatments. This review aims to compare two mainstream methods pulsed dye laser (PDL) therapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for PWS.

Methods:

The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, CNKI Full-Text Chinese Database and VIP Chinese Scientific Journals Database were searched for literatures comparing PDL versus PDT in treating PWS with no dates set. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were randomised, placebo-controlled or head-to-head trials published in either English or Chinese. The primary outcome was overall response rate judged by physician/investigator-reported outcome scoring system. Adverse effects were also recorded. Review Manager (RevMan) was used to perform data synthesis. Cochrane risk of bias tool was used for methodological quality assessment. Retrospective studies were assessed based on Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Results:

Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria, among which eight studies had the data necessary for the meta-analysis. Among the eight studies, four were retrospective studies with 1,075 patients. The other four were RCT studies with 532 randomised participants. Regarding the overall response rate of RCT studies, PDT demonstrated no significantly higher efficacy than PDL with RR 0.76 (95% credible interval [CI] 0.48–1.20). Regarding purple types, the overall response rate of PDT was statistically significantly superior to that of PDL with RR of 0.47 (95% CI: 0.29–0.79). In terms of red types, PDT also manifested no significantly higher efficacy compared with PDL with RR of 0.85 (95% CI: 0.27–2.71).

Conclusion:

PDT is an effective and safe treatment for different types of PWS and was more effective than PDL in treating purple type of PWS.