bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic handling stress in zebrafish Danio rerio husbandry
Authors: Philippe Charlotte , Vergauwen Lucia , Huyghe Kato , De Boeck Gudrun , Knapen Dries
Published: May 2023

The zebrafish (Danio rerio, Hamilton, 1822) is one of the most important fish model species in scientific research, with millions of fish housed in laboratory animal facilities around the world. During husbandry, it is necessary to regularly handle the fish, which could cause short‐ and long‐term stress, possibly affecting both fish welfare and experimental outcomes. In two experiments, the authors studied effects of transferring adult zebrafish, by chasing them with a net and/or exposing them to air (netting) on different endpoints: cortisol levels, reproduction parameters and behavioural parameters. They used realistic chase and air‐exposure times to mimic normal zebrafish husbandry and investigated the potential to habituate to handling stressors. Finally, the potential welfare improvements of a nutritional reward after handling were studied. All types of handling induced a stress response, but the authors did not find a correlation with the intensity of the stressor. Realistic (short) handling routines also caused stress, both after the first time and after regular handling over a long period of time. Cortisol levels peaked after 15 min, were still elevated after 30 min and dropped to resting level after 60 min. This should be taken into account by researchers when carrying out measurements or behavioural trials within an hour after handling. There is a minor potential benefit of nutritional rewards that may contribute to a faster recovery of normal behaviour. They did not find evidence of habituation to chasing and netting stress. Taking the stress response after handling into consideration will improve fish welfare and health and minimise husbandry‐associated sources of variation.
Towards artefact‐free AFM image presentation and interpretation
Authors: Burnham Nancy A. , Lyu Lei , Poulikakos Lily
Published: May 2023

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is based upon a simple operational principle. However, the presentation and interpretation of AFM images can easily suffer from consequential artefacts that are easily overlooked. Here we discuss results from AFM and its companion variations AFM‐IR (AFM combined with infrared spectroscopy) and PF‐QNM (an AFM mode called peak‐force quantitative nano‐mechanical mapping) by imaging ‘bee’ structures in asphalt binder (bitumen) as examples. We show how common problems manifest themselves and provide solutions, with the intent that authors can present their results clearly and avoid interpreting artefacts as true physical properties, thereby raising the quality of AFM research.
Macrophages influence Schwann cell myelin autophagy after nerve injury and in a model of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease
Authors: Weiß Eva Maria , Geldermann Miriam , Martini Rudolf , Klein Dennis
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

The complex cellular and molecular interactions between Schwann cells (SCs) and macrophages during Wallerian degeneration are a prerequisite to allow rapid uptake and degradation of myelin debris and axonal regeneration after peripheral nerve injury. In contrast, in non‐injured nerves of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth 1 neuropathies, aberrant macrophage activation by SCs carrying myelin gene defects is a disease amplifier that drives nerve damage and subsequent functional decline. Consequently, targeting nerve macrophages might be a translatable treatment strategy to mitigate disease outcome in CMT1 patients. Indeed, in previous approaches, macrophage targeting alleviated the axonopathy and promoted sprouting of damaged fibers. Surprisingly, this was still accompanied by robust myelinopathy in a model for CMT1X, suggesting additional cellular mechanisms of myelin degradation in mutant peripheral nerves. We here investigated the possibility of an increased SC‐related myelin autophagy upon macrophage targeting in Cx32def mice.

Methods

Combining ex vivo and in vivo approaches, macrophages were targeted by PLX5622 treatment. SC autophagy was investigated by immunohistochemical and electron microscopical techniques.

Results

We demonstrate a robust upregulation of markers for SC autophagy after injury and in genetically‐mediated neuropathy when nerve macrophages are pharmacologically depleted. Corroborating these findings, we provide ultrastructural evidence for increased SC myelin autophagy upon treatment in vivo.

Interpretation

These findings reveal a novel communication and interaction between SCs and macrophages. This identification of alternative pathways of myelin degradation may have important implications for a better understanding of therapeutic mechanisms of pharmacological macrophage targeting in diseased peripheral nerves.
Disease‐specific wearable sensor algorithms for profiling activity, gait, and balance in individuals with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A
Authors: Dinesh K. , White N. , Baker L. , Sowden J. E. , Behrens‐Spraggins S. , Wood E. , Charles J. , Herrmann D. N. , Sharma G. , Eichinger K.
Published: May 2023

Background/Aims

Charcot–Marie–Tooth Disease type 1A (CMT1A), the most common inherited peripheral neuropathy, is characterized by progressive sensory loss and weakness, which results in impaired mobility. Increased understanding of the genetics and pathophysiology of CMT1A has led to development of potential therapeutic agents, necessitating clinical trial readiness. Wearable sensors may provide useful outcome measures for future trials.

Methods

Individuals with CMT1A and unaffected controls were recruited for this 12‐month study. Participants wore sensors for in‐clinic assessments and at‐home, from which activity, gait, and balance metrics were derived. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to analyze group differences for activity, gait, and balance parameters. Test–retest reliability of gait and balance parameters and correlations of these parameters with clinical outcome assessments (COAs) were examined.

Results

Thirty individuals, 15 CMT1A, and 15 controls, participated. Gait and balance metrics demonstrated moderate to excellent reliability. CMT1A participants had longer step durations (p < .001), shorter step lengths (p = .03), slower gait speeds (p < .001), and greater postural sway (p < .001) than healthy controls. Moderate correlations were found between CMT‐Functional Outcome Measure and step length (r = −0.59; p = .02), and gait speed (r = 0.64; p = .01); 11 out of 15 CMT1A participants demonstrated significant increases in stride duration between the first and last quarter of the 6‐min walk test, suggesting fatigue.

Interpretation

In this initial study, gait and balance metrics derived from wearable sensors were reliable and associated with COAs in individuals with CMT1A. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our findings and evaluate sensitivity and utility of these disease‐specific algorithms for clinical trial use.
Evaluation of two implant‐supported fixed partial denture abutment designs: Influence on screw surface characteristics
Authors: Alzoubi Fawaz M. , Sabti Mohammad , Alsarraf Esra , Alshahrani Faris A. , Sadowsky Steven J.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To compare screw surface characteristics between hemi‐engaging and non‐engaging implant‐supported fixed partial denture (FPD) designs after cyclic loading.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four implants measuring 4.3 × 10 mm were mounted on acrylic resin blocks. Specimens were divided into two groups. An experimental group included twelve 3‐unit FPD with a hemi‐engaging design; a control group included twelve 3‐unit FPDs with the conventional design of two non‐engaging abutments. Both groups were subjected to two types of cycling loading (CL), first axial loading, and then lateral loading at 30°. Load was applied to the units one million times (1.0 × 106 cycles) for each loading axis. Data on screw surface roughness in three locations and screw thread depth were collected before (BL) and after (AL) each loading type. Screw surface roughness was measured in μm using a mechanical digital surface profilometer and optical profiler. To evaluate screw thread depth in μm, an upright optical microscope Axio‐imager 2 was used. To confirm readings made from the optical microscope, four random samples were selected from each group for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The effect of cyclic loading was evaluated by averaging values across the two screws within each specimen, then calculating difference scores (DL) between BL and AL (DL = AL – BL). Additional difference scores were computed between the non‐engaging screws in each experimental group specimen, and one randomly selected non‐engaging screw in each control specimen. This difference was referred to as the non‐engaging DL. Statistical significance was assessed using Mann‐Whitney U tests (α = 0.05).

Results

Comparisons of DL and non‐engaging DL by loading type revealed one significant difference regarding surface roughness at the screw thread. Significantly greater mean changes were observed after axial loading compared to lateral loading regarding both DL (axial M = ‐0.36 ± 0.08; lateral M = ‐0.21 ± 0.09; U = 20; p = 0.003) and non‐engaging DL (axial M = ‐0.40 ± 0.22; lateral M = ‐0.21 ± 0.11; U = 29; p = 0.013). No significant differences in screw surface roughness in other sites or thread depth were found between the experimental and control abutment designs in DL or in non‐engaging DL. No significant differences were found for DL (axial U = 13, p = 0.423; lateral U = 9, p = 0.150;) or non‐engaging DL (axial U = 13, p = 0.423; lateral U = 18, p = 1.00).

Conclusions

Results suggest that overall, changes in screw surface physical characteristics did not differ between hemi‐engaging and non‐engaging designs after evaluating screw surface roughness and thread depth before and after axial and lateral cyclic loading.
The age‐varying effects of adolescent stress on impulsivity and sensation seeking
Authors: Wasserman Alexander M. , Wood Erin E. , Mathias Charles W. , Moon Tae Joon , Hill‐Kapturczak Nathalie , Roache John D. , Dougherty Donald M.
Published: May 2023

Adolescence is defined in part by heightened exposure and sensitivity to stressors. In a longitudinal cohort of youth at risk for substance use problems, we examined the age‐varying relationship between stress exposure and traits that are central to the dual systems model. The positive associations between stress exposure, impulsivity, sensation seeking varied as function of age. Specifically, the influence of stress exposure on impulsivity strengthened during early adolescence and remained stable into early adulthood, while the influence of stress exposure on sensation seeking strengthened from early‐ to mid‐adolescence and weakened thereafter. These findings suggest that the maturational imbalance between the capacity to regulate impulsive tendencies and sensation seeking may be exaggerated for youth who are exposed to a high number of stressors.
Synergistic inhibitory effects of clopidogrel and rivaroxaban on platelet function and platelet‐dependent thrombin generation in cats
Authors: Lo Sara T. , Li Ronald H. L. , Georges Catherine J. , Nguyen Nghi , Chen Cheyenne K. , Stuhlmann Claire , Oldach Maureen Sigmund , Rivas Victor Noel , Fousse Samantha , Harris Samantha P. , Stern Joshua A.
Published: May 2023

Background

Dual antithrombotic treatment (DAT) with clopidogrel and rivaroxaban sometimes is prescribed to cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy at risk of thromboembolism. To date, no studies have evaluated their combined effects on platelet function.

Objectives/Hypothesis

Evaluate the safety of DAT in healthy cats and compare, ex vivo, platelet‐dependent thrombin generation and agonist‐induced platelet activation and aggregation in cats treated with clopidogrel, rivaroxaban, or DAT. We hypothesized that DAT would safely modulate agonist‐induced platelet activation and aggregation more effectively than single agent treatment.

Animals

Nine apparently healthy 1‐year‐old cats selected from a research colony.

Methods

Unblinded, nonrandomized ex vivo cross‐over study. All cats received 7 days of rivaroxaban (0.6 ± 0.1 mg/kg PO), clopidogrel (4.7 ± 0.8 mg/kg PO), or DAT with defined washout periods between treatments. Before and after each treatment, adenosine diphosphate (ADP)‐ and thrombin‐induced platelet P‐selectin expression was evaluated using flow cytometry to assess platelet activation. Platelet‐dependent thrombin generation was measured by fluorescence assay. Platelet aggregation was assessed using whole blood impedance platelet aggregometry.

Results

No cats exhibited adverse effects. Of the 3 treatments, only DAT significantly decreased the number of activated platelets (P = .002), modulated platelet activation in response to thrombin (P = .01), dampened thrombin generation potential (P = .01), and delayed maximum reaction velocity (P = .004) in thrombin generation. Like clopidogrel, DAT inhibited ADP‐mediated platelet aggregation. However, rivaroxaban alone resulted in increased aggregation and activation in response to ADP.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Treatment combining clopidogrel and rivaroxaban (DAT) safely decreases platelet activation, platelet response to agonists, and thrombin generation in feline platelets more effectively than monotherapy with either clopidogrel or rivaroxaban.
An adult‐based genetic risk score for liver fat associates with liver and plasma lipid traits in children and adolescents
Authors: Huang Yun , Stinson Sara E. , Juel Helene Bæk , Lund Morten A. V. , Holm Louise Aas , Fonvig Cilius E. , Nielsen Trine , Grarup Niels , Pedersen Oluf , Christiansen Michael , Chabanova Elizaveta , Thomsen Henrik S. , Krag Aleksander , Stender Stefan , Holm Jens‐Christian , Hansen Torben
Published: May 2023

Background & Aims

Genome‐wide association studies have identified steatogenic variants that also showed pleiotropic effects on cardiometabolic traits in adults. We investigated the effect of eight previously reported genome‐wide significant steatogenic variants, individually and combined in a weighted genetic risk score (GRS), on liver and cardiometabolic traits, and the predictive ability of the GRS for hepatic steatosis in children and adolescents.

Approach & Results

Children and adolescents with overweight (including obesity) from an obesity clinic group (n = 1768) and a population‐based group (n = 1890) were included. Cardiometabolic risk outcomes and genotypes were obtained. Liver fat was quantified using 1H‐MRS in a subset of 727 participants. Variants in PNPLA3, TM6SF2, GPAM and TRIB1 were associated with higher liver fat (p < .05) and with distinct patterns of plasma lipids. The GRS was associated with higher liver fat content, plasma concentrations of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and favourable plasma lipid levels. The GRS was associated with higher prevalence of hepatic steatosis (defined as liver fat ≥5.0%) (odds ratio per 1‐SD unit: 2.17, p = 9.7E‐10). A prediction model for hepatic steatosis including GRS alone yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.78 (95% CI 0.76–0.81). Combining the GRS with clinical measures (waist‐to‐height ratio [WHtR] SDS, ALT, and HOMA‐IR) increased the AUC up to 0.86 (95% CI 0.84–0.88).

Conclusions

The genetic predisposition for liver fat accumulation conferred risk of hepatic steatosis in children and adolescents. The liver fat GRS has potential clinical utility for risk stratification.
Sleeve gastrectomy causes weight‐loss independent improvements in hepatic steatosis
Authors: McGlone Emma Rose , Siebert Matthieu , Dore Marian , Hope David C. D. , Davies Iona , Owen Bryn , Khoo Bernard , Goldin Rob , Carling Dave , Bloom Stephen , Le Gall Maude , Tan Tricia M‐M.
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) leads to improvement in hepatic steatosis, associated with weight loss. The aims of this study were to investigate whether VSG leads to weight‐loss independent improvements in liver steatosis in mice with diet‐induced obesity (DIO); and to metabolically and transcriptomically profile hepatic changes in mice undergoing VSG.

Methods

Mice with DIO were treated with VSG, sham surgery with subsequent food restriction to weight‐match to the VSG group (Sham‐WM), or sham surgery with return to unrestricted diet (Sham‐Ad lib). Hepatic steatosis, glucose tolerance, insulin and glucagon resistance, and hepatic transcriptomics were investigated at the end of the study period and treatment groups were compared with mice undergoing sham surgery only (Sham‐Ad lib).

Results

VSG led to much greater improvement in liver steatosis than Sham‐WM (liver triglyceride mg/mg 2.5 ± 0.1, 2.1 ± 0.2, 1.6 ± 0.1 for Sham‐AL, Sham‐WM and VSG respectively; p = 0.003). Homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance was improved following VSG only (51.2 ± 8.8, 36.3 ± 5.3, 22.3 ± 6.1 for Sham‐AL, Sham‐WM and VSG respectively; p = 0.03). The glucagon‐alanine index, a measure of glucagon resistance, fell with VSG but was significantly increased in Sham‐WM (9.8 ± 1.7, 25.8 ± 4.6 and 5.2 ± 1.2 in Sham Ad‐lib, Sham‐WM and VSG respectively; p = 0.0003). Genes downstream of glucagon receptor signalling which govern fatty acid synthesis (Acaca, Acacb, Me1, Acly, Fasn and Elovl6) were downregulated following VSG but upregulated in Sham‐WM.

Conclusions

Changes in glucagon sensitivity may contribute to weight‐loss independent improvements in hepatic steatosis following VSG.
A circular RNA produced by LRBA promotes cirrhotic mouse liver regeneration through facilitating the ubiquitination degradation of p27
Authors: Xu Liangliang , Zhang Jinfu , Li Li , Wang Peng , Zheng Xiaobo , Luo Jianchen , Zhang Shuqi , Li Lian , Yi Pengsheng , Zhang Yanfang , Yan Tao , Xie Liang , Feng Lei , Zhang Ming , Xu Mingqing
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Accumulating circular RNAs (circRNAs) play important roles in tissue repair and organ regeneration. However, the biological effects of circRNAs on liver regeneration remain largely unknown. This study aims to systematically elucidate the functions and mechanisms of circRNAs derived from lipopolysaccharide‐responsive beige‐like anchor protein (LRBA) in regulating liver regeneration.

Methods

CircRNAs derived from mouse LRBA gene were identified using CircBase. In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted to confirm the effects of circLRBA on liver regeneration. RNA pull‐down and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Clinical samples and cirrhotic mouse models were used to evaluate the clinical significance and transitional value of circLRBA.

Results

Eight circRNAs derived from LRBA were registered in CircBase. The circRNA mmu_circ_0018031 (circLRBA) was significantly upregulated in the liver tissues after 2/3 partial hepatectomy (PHx). Adeno‐associated virus serotype 8 (AAV8)‐mediated knockdown of circLRBA markedly inhibited mouse liver regeneration after 2/3 PHx. In vitro experiments confirmed that circLRBA exerted its growth‐promoting function mainly through liver parenchymal cells. Mechanistically, circLRBA acted as a scaffold for the interaction between E3 ubiquitin‐protein ligase ring finger protein 123 and p27, facilitating the ubiquitination degradation of p27. Clinically, circLRBA was lowly expressed in cirrhotic liver tissues and negatively correlated with perioperative levels of total bilirubin. Furthermore, overexpression of circLRBA enhanced cirrhotic mouse liver regeneration after 2/3 PHx.

Conclusions

We conclude that circLRBA is a novel growth promoter in liver regeneration and a potential therapeutic target related to deficiency of cirrhotic liver regeneration.
Dioptric differences between clinically determined and metric‐optimised refractions for adults with Down syndrome
Authors: Plaumann Maureen D. , Marsack Jason D. , Benoit Julia S. , Manny Ruth E. , Anderson Heather A.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Refractions based on the optimisation of single‐value wavefront‐derived metrics may help determine appropriate corrections for individuals with Down syndrome where clinical techniques fall short. This study compared dioptric differences between refractions obtained using standard clinical techniques and two metric‐optimised methods: visual Strehl ratio (VSX) and pupil fraction tessellated (PFSt), and investigated characteristics that may contribute to the differences between refraction types.

Methods

Thirty adults with Down syndrome (age = 29 ± 10 years) participated. Three refractive corrections (VSX, PFSt and clinical) were determined and converted to vector notation (M, J0, J45) to calculate the dioptric difference between pairings of each type using a mixed model repeated measures approach. Linear correlations and multivariable regression were performed to examine the relationship between dioptric differences and the following participant characteristics: higher order root mean square (RMS) for a 4 mm pupil diameter, spherical equivalent refractive error and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (a measure of developmental ability).

Results

The least squares mean estimates (standard error) of the dioptric differences for each pairing were as follows: VSX versus PFSt = 0.51 D (0.11); VSX versus clinical = 1.19 D (0.11) and PFSt versus clinical = 1.04 D (0.11). There was a statistically significant difference in the dioptric differences between the clinical refraction and each of the metric‐optimised refractions (p < 0.001). Increased dioptric differences in refraction were correlated with increased higher order RMS (R = 0.64,p < 0.001 [VSX vs. clinical] andR = 0.47,p < 0.001 [PFSt vs. clinical]) as well as increased myopic spherical equivalent refractive error (R = 0.37,p = 0.004 [VSX vs. clinical] andR = 0.51,p < 0.001 [PFSt vs. clinical]).

Conclusions

The observed differences in refraction demonstrate that a significant portion of the refractive uncertainty is related to increased higher order aberrations and myopic refractive error. Methodology surrounding clinical techniques and metric‐optimisation based on wavefront aberrometry may explain the difference in refractive endpoints.
Safety and efficacy of catheter ablation on patients with persistent atrial fibrillation by targeting repetitive activation patterns and focal impulses
Authors: de Potter Tom , Sarkozy Andrea , Duytschaever Mattias , Bulava Alan
Published: May 2023

Background

The study is intended to evaluate the acute and long‐term effectiveness and peri‐procedural safety in ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (PsAF) using the CartoFinder algorithm guided ablation (CFGA) targeting on repetitive activation patterns (RAPs) and focal impulses (FIs) identified in dynamic maps.

Methods

This is a prospective, single‐arm, multicenter study. A 64‐pole multielectrode basket catheter was used for intracardiac global electrogram (EGM) mapping. The RAPs or FIs were repeatedly mapped and ablated for up to five iterations by the CartoFinder algorithm to achieve sinus rhythm (SR) or organized atrial tachycardia (AT), which were followed by PVI. All patients were followed up for 12 months after procedure.

Results

Sixty‐four PsAF patients (age, 60.7 ± 9.1 years; male, 76.6%; median PsAF duration, 6.0 months) underwent CFGA on RAPs/FIs. Six patients (9.4%) reported primary adverse event (PAE) including groin hematoma (2), complete heart block (1), tamponade (1), pericarditis (1), and pseudoaneurysm (1). Repeated mapping and ablation on RAPs/FIs resulted in the cycle length (CL) increase from 191.0 ± 167.6 ms at baseline to 365.7 ± 296.7 ms in the LA and from 167.8 ± 41.6 ms to 379.4 ± 293.5 ms in the RA and 30.2% (19/63) AF termination to SR or organized AT. The 12‐month arrhythmia‐free and symptomatic AF‐free rates were 60.9% and 75.0%, respectively. Patients with acute AF termination showed a higher 12‐month arrhythmia‐free rate (76.9%) than those without (50.0%, p = .04).

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that the CartoFinder algorithm can be used for global activation mapping during PsAF ablation. Patients with acute AF termination had a lower 12‐month AF recurrence rate compared to patients without.
TriGuard Embolic Protection Device in percutaneous cardiac interventions with intracavitary cardiac thrombosis: A case series
Authors: Marcon Lorenzo , Sicuso Rita , Galli Stefano , Majocchi Benedetta , Carbucicchio Corrado , Tondo Claudio , Fassini Gaetano Michele
Published: May 2023

Embolic cerebral protection devices are not routinely used in clinical practice during electrophysiological interventions. We report a case series of patients with intracardiac thrombosis undergoing a percutaneous left atrial appendage (LAA) closure and a ventricular tachycardia (VT) catheter ablation supported by TriGuard 3 Cerebral Embolic Protection Device.
Expressing 2.0
Authors: Glazer Trip
Published: May 2023

William P. Alston argues in “Expressing” (1965) that there is no important difference between expressing a feeling in language and asserting that one has that feeling. My aims in this paper are (1) to show that Alston's arguments ought to have led him to a different conclusion—that “asserting” and “expressing” individuate speech acts at different levels of analysis (the illocutionary and the locutionary, respectively)—and (2) to argue that this conclusion can solve a problem facing contemporary analyses of expressing: the “no show tell” problem, or the problem of accounting for utterances that report feelings truly without expressing them. Alston's paper made an important contribution 50 years ago, and a reimagining of it can make another important contribution today.
Practicing ubuntu
Authors: Samuel Olusegun Steven
Published: May 2023

This paper discusses one particular way we may put the idea of sharing in ubuntu philosophy into practice: moderate selflessness. Moderate selflessness is an important tool that might help us pursue other‐regarding behaviour alongside the agent's genuine well‐being interests to help disrupt the antagonistic gap between humanity and nonhumanity. I suggest that, properly understood, moderate selflessness may provide conceptual resources to avoid antagonistic environmental practices, including the concerns of poverty and biodiversity loss.
Neural signatures of memory gain through active exploration in an oculomotor‐auditory learning task
Authors: Sturm Stefanie , Costa‐Faidella Jordi , SanMiguel Iria
Published: May 2023

Active engagement improves learning and memory, and self‐ versus externally generated stimuli are processed differently: perceptual intensity and neural responses are attenuated. Whether the attenuation is linked to memory formation remains unclear. This study investigates whether active oculomotor control over auditory stimuli—controlling for movement and stimulus predictability—benefits associative learning, and studies the underlying neural mechanisms. Using EEG and eye tracking we explored the impact of control during learning on the processing and memory recall of arbitrary oculomotor‐auditory associations. Participants (N = 23) learned associations through active exploration or passive observation, using a gaze‐controlled interface to generate sounds. Our results show faster learning progress in the active condition. ERPs time‐locked to the onset of sound stimuli showed that learning progress was linked to an attenuation of the P3a component. The detection of matching movement‐sound pairs triggered a target‐matching P3b. There was no general modulation of ERPs through active learning. However, we found continuous variation in the strength of the memory benefit across participants: some benefited more strongly from active control during learning than others. This was paralleled in the strength of the N1 attenuation effect for self‐generated stimuli, which was correlated with memory gain in active learning. Our results show that control helps learning and memory and modulates sensory responses. Individual differences during sensory processing predict the strength of the memory benefit. Taken together, these results help to disentangle the effects of agency, unspecific motor‐based neuromodulation, and predictability on ERP components and establish a link between self‐generation effects and active learning memory gain.
Computing in the nick of time
Authors: Ritchie J. Brendan , Klein Colin
Published: May 2023

The medium‐independence of computational descriptions has shaped common conceptions of computational explanation. So long as our goal is to explain how a system successfully carries out its computations, then we only need to describe the abstract series of operations that achieve the desired input–output mapping, however they may be implemented. It is argued that this abstract conception of computational explanation cannot be applied to so‐called real‐time computing systems, in which meeting temporal deadlines imposed by the systems with which a device interfaces are constitutive of the computing tasks that a device performs. Instead, real‐time computing reveals the need for alternative conceptions of computational explanation, as well as computational implementation, that eschew medium‐independence.
Rome, Catholicism, and the nation‐state in America: Re‐centering a debate?
Authors: De Stradis Susanna
Published: May 2023

The relationship between Catholicism and the nation‐state in America has been fraught with tension on multiple levels. This review will distinguish two main analytical perspectives. One focuses on the problem of ethnicity and race formation. The Catholic Church in America has historically been both ethnically fragmented and functioning as a whole non‐WASP “other.” Therefore, its relationship with the nation‐state can be described in terms of inclusion in/exclusion from the dominant group and as largely dependent on how the ethnic and racial (self‐)definition of both Church and country changed over time. A second perspective highlights the ideological friction between the Catholic and the American intellectual and political traditions. The question of Catholic belonging to the American nation‐state could be (and was) framed in terms of intellectual assent and political loyalty to a core set of propositions and values ultimately enshrined in the US Constitution. While the two strands of tension were often conflated in the same inclusionary/exclusionary historical episodes and dynamics, they remain distinguishable both analytically and historiographically. After reviewing scholarship from both perspectives, as well as the most recent developments in each, I will suggest that greater appreciation for the Catholic Church as a global institution (and for the potential of its rich archival records in Rome) may be a most promising, if somewhat counterintuitive, strategy to shed new light on the interplay of Catholicism and the nation‐state in America.
Temporary migrants and gender housework division among left‐behind household members
Authors: Vu Tien Manh
Published: May 2023

We examine whether Vietnamese migrant workers induce a shift in gender roles in housework division among the household members left behind. Using two waves of the Vietnamese Household Living Standard Survey (2006–2008), we apply the first‐difference method and estimate a simple household fixed effects model with instrumental variables for robustness checking. We find that temporary female migrants are associated with a higher probability of undertaking housework by male members left behind and there is a reduction in the gender gap in terms of time spent on chores. However, we find little evidence for a similar reduction in the gender gap when the household size is altered for other reasons.
The Built Environment and Social and Emotional Support among Rural Older Adults: The Case for Social Infrastructure and Attention to Ethnoracial Differences☆
Authors: Rhubart Danielle , Kowalkowski Jennifer , Wincott Logan
Published: May 2023

Social and emotional support (SaES) is essential for older adult mental health and is shaped by individual‐level factors and the built environment. However, much of the focus on the built environment, and specifically social infrastructure—the physical places that facilitate social interaction and social tie formation—relies heavily on urban settings or samples with limited diversity. Consequently, there is little understanding if social infrastructure matters for the SaES of older adults in rural America, and across race and ethnicity. Therefore, we use social cohesion as a conceptual lens and the community gerontology framework to determine whether availability of social infrastructure is associated with SaES among older adults in rural America and whether this relationship varies across race and ethnicity. Using data from 110,850 rural older adults from the Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System and data from the National Neighborhood Data Archive, we show that among rural ethnoracial minority older adults, higher densities of social infrastructure are associated with higher SaES. This is not true for rural non‐Hispanic White older adults. Results highlight the importance of accounting for both social infrastructure as part of the built environment and heterogeneity across race and ethnicity in studies that examine older adult mental and emotional health.
Haters and egoists: Quality of will and degrees of moral responsibility
Authors: Montminy Martin
Published: May 2023

I argue that a capacity‐based account of blameworthiness and praiseworthiness is superior to an account based on quality of will. I focus on four types of cases about which the two accounts disagree and show that the capacity‐based view offers a better treatment. As part of my argument, I motivate the distinction between an assessment of a person's moral character, as reflected by her action, and an assessment of her blameworthiness or praiseworthiness for that action.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DRB1*14:255 allele by next generation sequencing
Authors: Desoutter Judith , Lion Julien , Elsermans Vincent , Top Isabelle , Guillaume Nicolas
Published: May 2023

HLA‐DRB1*14:255 differs from HLA‐DRB1*14:54:01 by one nucleotide substitution in codon 205 in exon 4.
The novel HLA allele, HLA‐DPB1*05:01:19, identified in a Chinese bone marrow donor by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Liao Hongmei , Li Chunli , Mao Wei , Zhu Sumin , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2023

HLA‐DPB1*05:01:19 differs from DPB1*05:01:01 by one nucleotide in codon 62 in exon 2.
Seismic evidence for ductile necking of the mid‐lower crust beneath the Columbrets Basin (Western Mediterranean)
Authors: Ramos Adrià , Pedrera Antonio , García‐Senz Jesús , López‐Mir Berta , Salas Ramon
Published: May 2023

The Columbrets Basin is the largest Mesozoic rift basin of the Valencia Trough in the Western Mediterranean. The analysis of a seismic‐reflection survey makes it possible to reconstruct the tectonic fabric underlying the sedimentary basin, including the structure of the top of the lower crust and the Moho. It is proposed that the ductile deformation of the mid‐lower crust was the main mechanism controlling the basin geometry, with the radial flow of mid‐lower crust coeval with the reactivation of two large‐offset SW‐dipping normal faults, inherited from the precursor Permian–Triassic rifting. Mid‐lower crustal necking occurred below the major depocenters, immediately before hyperextension. Our results provide new insight into the formation of circular‐shaped basins and the evolution of depth‐dependent extensional processes during rifting.
Efficient building facade structure extraction method using image‐based laser point cloud
Authors: Wang Yongzhi , Hu Xiaoyu , Zhou Tao , Ma Yuqing , Li Zhenchao
Published: May 2023

Facade structures from three‐dimensional (3D) point cloud data (PCD) and two‐dimensional (2D) optical images can provide significant information for 3D building modeling. However, a unified data model for integrating 2D imagery pixels and 3D PCD is absent in current methods, leading to a complex implementation process, large calculations, and inefficiency. An efficient facade structure extraction method for building facades is proposed in this study. Based on the conversion matrix, 2D image and 3D PCD information are merged to build an image‐based laser point cloud (ILPC) data model first. Second, both the line segment detection and random sample consensus algorithms are improved according to the structure and characteristics of the ILPC data model. Finally, building facade structures are extracted and optimized. Facade structures can be extracted accurately and efficiently by the proposed method, which contains rich information support from the ILPC data model. The proposed method extracts fine building facade structures with accuracy over 0.68 in all experiments and recall up to 0.81, which are better than the Wang method. Extracted structures constitute valuable support for numerous fields, such as 3D building modeling and building information modeling construction.
The myth of true lies
Authors: Kallestrup Jesper
Published: May 2023

Suppose you assert a proposition p that you falsely believe to be false with the intention to deceive your audience. The standard view has it that you lied. This paper argues against orthodoxy: deceptive lying requires that p be in actual fact false, in addition to your intention to deceive by means of untruthfully asserting that p. We proceed as follows. First, an argument is developed for such falsity condition as the non‐psychological component of lying. The problem with the standard view, we profess, is exactly that lying is a purely psychological relation between disbelief, assertion, and intention. Then, by scrutinising familiar cases, we revisit the alleged intuitive support for the existence of true lies. It turns out these intuitions can be explained away once we reflect on the characteristic deceptive hallmarks that are associated with the distinction between lying and botched attempts at lying. Finally, we examine the morality of lying in the light of said falsity condition. The resultant view emphasises our moral sensitivity to the practical consequences of acts of lying, while still accommodating those moral considerations that pertain exclusively to the psychological components of lying.
Trend in seroprevalence of HTLV‐1/2 in Taiwanese blood donors—A 10‐year follow‐up
Authors: Lee Yu‐Han , Lu Chi‐Te , Feng I‐Jung , Hung Chi‐Ming
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This study evaluated the Human T‐lymphotropic virus (HTLV) screening policy impact on the HTLV seroprevalence from 2009 to 2018 as well as the differences between administrative districts in terms of prevalence distribution in Taiwan.

Background

Since February 1996, the Taiwan Blood Services Foundation (TBSF) had conducted HTLV screening of blood donors. The HTLV seroprevalence was 0.032% in 1999.

Materials and Methods

This cross‐sectional study included donors' data collected from blood donation centres across Taiwan from 2009 to 2018. Enzyme immunoassay and Western blot assay were used for screening and confirmation of HTLV infections. In this study, the researchers calculated the trends in the HTLV rates of first‐time and repeat donors across time as well as the HTLV prevalence distribution across the 22 administrative districts of Taiwan.

Results

Amongst 17 977 429 employed blood donations, 739 HTLV‐seropositive donations (4.11 per 100 000 donations) were identified. The HTLV‐positive donors were aged between 17 and 64 years, with a median age of 49 years. The overall seropositivity rates of first‐time and repeat donors were 34.36/100 000 and 1.27/100 000. HTLV seroprevalence in first‐time blood donors significantly decreased by 57% (crude odds ratio [95% confidence interval] (crude OR [95% CI]) = 0.43 [0.28–0.64]) within 10 years. A slight decline was also identified in repeat donors (crude OR [95% CI] = 0.73 [0.4–1.32]). Donors from different districts showed significantly varied prevalence. Most districts with high prevalence are situated in eastern Taiwan, for both donation types. Older blood donors were more likely to be infected with HTLV than younger ones in first time and repeat donors. Middle age donors (50–65 years) had an 18.47–39.65 greater risk than those aged <20 years. Significant higher risk of female was observed in both donation types. Amongst different age groups, first‐time female donors increase 1.31–1.88 times infection risk and female in repeat donor group had 1.55–3.43 times greater risk.

Conclusion

Over years of implementation of the HTLV blood donor screening policy by the TBSF, the HTLV seroprevalence of first‐time donors has decreased consistently. Moreover, the HTLV seroprevalence of repeat donors has dropped considerably. This implies that the screening policy provides continued benefit. Females and older blood donors were more likely infected with HTLV than males and younger blood donors. The influence of age on infection was greater amongst first‐time donors than amongst repeat donors. Therefore, appropriate measures should be taken to ensure public safety.
Large‐scale asymptotics of velocity‐jump processes and nonlocal Hamilton–Jacobi equations
Authors: Bouin Emeric , Calvez Vincent , Grenier Emmanuel , Nadin Grégoire
Published: May 2023

We investigate a simple velocity jump process in the regime of large deviation asymptotics. New velocities are taken randomly at a constant, large, rate from a Gaussian distribution with vanishing variance. The Kolmogorov forward equation associated with this process is the linear BGK kinetic transport equation. We derive a new type of Hamilton–Jacobi equation which is nonlocal with respect to the velocity variable. We introduce a suitable notion of viscosity solution, and we prove well‐posedness in the viscosity sense. We also prove convergence of the logarithmic transformation toward this limit problem. Furthermore, we identify the variational formulation of the solution by means of an action functional supported on piecewise linear curves. As an application of this theory, we compute the exact rate of acceleration in a kinetic version of the celebrated F–KPP equation in the one‐dimensional case.
Genome‐wide association studies: utility and limitations for research in physiology
Authors: Pereira Ciochetti Nicolas , Lugli‐Moraes Beatriz , Santos da Silva Bruna , Rovaris Diego Luiz
Published: May 2023

Physiological systems are subject to interindividual variation encoded by genetics. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) operate by surveying thousands of genetic variants from a substantial number of individuals and assessing their association to a trait of interest, be it a physiological variable, a molecular phenotype (e.g. gene expression), or even a disease or condition. Through a myriad of methods, GWAS downstream analyses then explore the functional consequences of each variant and attempt to ascertain a causal relationship to the phenotype of interest, as well as to delve into its links to other traits. This type of investigation allows mechanistic insights into physiological functions, pathological disturbances and shared biological processes between traits (i.e. pleiotropy). An exciting example is the discovery of a new thyroid hormone transporter (SLC17A4) and hormone metabolising enzyme (AADAT) from a GWAS on free thyroxine levels. Therefore, GWAS have substantially contributed with insights into physiology and have been shown to be useful in unveiling the genetic control underlying complex traits and pathological conditions; they will continue to do so with global collaborations and advances in genotyping technology. Finally, the increasing number of trans‐ancestry GWAS and initiatives to include ancestry diversity in genomics will boost the power for discoveries, making them also applicable to non‐European populations.

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Determination of stress in thin films using micro-machined buckled membranes
Authors: Malhaire C. , Granata M. , Hofman D. , Amato A. , Martinez V. , Cagnoli G. , Lemaitre A. , Shcheblanov N.
Published: May 2023

In this work, optical profilometry and finite-element simulations are applied on buckled micromachined membranes for the stress analysis of ion-beam-sputtered Ta2O5 and SiO2 thin films. Layers with different thicknesses are grown on silicon substrates, and then several membranes with different geometries are manufactured with standard microsystem technologies; due to a high level of films’ compressive stress, buckled membranes are obtained. Thermally grown silica membranes are also produced for comparison. The residual stress values are determined by comparing the measured and simulated deflections of the membranes. The average stress state of Ta2O5 thin films is found to be −209 MPa. The SiO2 thin films are in a higher compressive stress state whose average value is −576 MPa. For comparison, the average stress in thermal SiO2 thin layers grown at 1130°C is found equal to −321 MPa, in good agreement with the literature.
Head Impact Exposure in Female Collegiate Soccer by Activity Type
Authors: Segars Mary Frances , Filben Tanner M. , Pritchard N. Stewart , Miller Logan E. , Miles Christopher M. , Stitzel Joel D. , Urban Jillian E.
Published: May 2023

Soccer, one of the most popular sports in the world, has one of the highest rates of sports-related concussions. Additionally, soccer players are frequently exposed to nonconcussive impacts from intentionally heading the ball, a fundamental component of the sport. There have been many studies on head impact exposure in soccer, but few focus on soccer practices or practice activities. This study aimed to characterize the frequency and magnitude of head impacts in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I female soccer practice activities using a custom-fit instrumented mouthpiece. Sixteen players were instrumented over the course of 54 practice sessions. Video analysis was performed to verify all mouthpiece-recorded events and classify practice activities. Category groupings of practice activities include technical training, team interaction, set pieces, position-specific, and other. Differences in head impact rates and peak resultant kinematics were observed across activity types and category groupings. Technical training had the highest impact rate compared to other category groupings. Impacts occurring during set piece activities had the highest mean kinematic values. Understanding drill exposure can help inform coaches on training plans aimed to reduce head impact exposure for their athletes.
A Decomposition Analysis of Racial Disparities in Physical Activity Among Cancer Survivors: National Health Interview Survey 2009–2018
Authors: Mbous Yves Paul Vincent , Mohamed Rowida , Bhandari Ruchi
Published: May 2023

Purpose: In light of the known benefits of physical activity (PA) for cancer survivors, this exploratory study sought to investigate the uptake of PA among this population in the United States. Methods: Using the National Health Interview Survey data from 2009 to 2018, lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, ovarian, and lymphoma cancer survivors were identified, and their PA adherence measured per the standards of the American College of Sports Medicine. Logistic regression and the Fairlie decomposition were used, respectively, to identify correlates of PA and to explain the difference in PA adherence between races. Results: Uptake of PA was significantly different between Whites and minorities. Blacks had lower odds than Whites (adjusted odds ratio: 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.66–0.93), whereas Mixed Race had twice the odds of Whites (adjusted odds ratio: 1.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.27–0.98) of adhering to PA recommendations. Decomposition identified education, family income-to-poverty ratio, body mass index, number of chronic conditions, alcohol use, and general health as key factors accounting for the PA disparity between cancer survivors of White and Black or Multiple/Mixed racial group. Conclusion: These findings could help inform behavioral PA interventions to improve their design and targeting to different racial groups of cancer survivors.