bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Hardness of Analyzing Quantum Programs Quantitatively
Authors: Avanzini Martin , Moser Georg , Péchoux Romain , Perdrix Simon
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we study quantitative properties of quantum programs. Properties of interest include (positive) almost-sure termination, expected runtime or expected cost, that is, for example, the expected number of applications of a given quantum gate, etc. After studying the completeness of these problems in the arithmetical hierarchy over the Clifford+T fragment of quantum mechanics, we express these problems using a variation of a quantum pre-expectation transformer, a weakest pre-condition based technique that allows to symbolically compute these quantitative properties. Under a smooth restriction—a restriction to polynomials of bounded degree over a real closed field—we show that the quantitative problem, which consists in finding an upper-bound to the pre-expectation, can be decided in time double-exponential in the size of a program, thus providing, despite its great complexity, one of the first decidable results on the analysis and verification of quantum programs. Finally, we sketch how the latter can be transformed into an efficient synthesis method.
Reconciling Partial and Local Invertibility
Authors: Ågren Thuné Anders , Matsuda Kazutaka , Wang Meng
Published: April 2024

Invertible programming languages specify transformations to be run in two directions, such as compression/decompression or encryption/decryption. Two key concepts in invertible programming languages are partial invertibility and local invertibility. Partial invertibility lets invertible code be parameterized by the results of non-invertible code, whereas local invertibility requires all code to be invertible. The former allows for more flexible programming, while the latter has connections to domains such as low-energy computing and quantum computing. We find that existing approaches lack a satisfying treatment of partial invertibility, leaving the connection to local invertibility unclear.

In this paper, we identify four core constructs for partially invertible programming, and show how to give them a locally invertible interpretation. We show the expressiveness of the constructs by designing the functional invertible language Kalpis, and show how to give them a locally invertible semantics using the novel arrow combinator language $$\textsc {rrArr}$$

R
R

A

R
R

—the key idea is viewing partial invertibility as an invertible effect. By formalizing the two systems and giving Kalpis semantics by translation to $$\textsc {rrArr}$$

R
R

A

R
R

, we reconcile partial and local invertibility, solving an open problem in the field. All formal developments are mechanized in Agda.
A Denotational Approach to Release/Acquire Concurrency
Authors: Dvir Yotam , Kammar Ohad , Lahav Ori
Published: April 2024

We present a compositional denotational semantics for a functional language with first-class parallel composition and shared-memory operations whose operational semantics follows the Release/Acquire weak memory model (RA). The semantics is formulated in Moggi’s monadic approach, and is based on Brookes-style traces. To do so we adapt Brookes’s traces to Kang et al.’s view-based machine for RA, and supplement Brookes’s mumble and stutter closure operations with additional operations, specific to RA. The latter provides a more nuanced understanding of traces that uncouples them from operational interrupted executions. We show that our denotational semantics is adequate and use it to validate various program transformations of interest. This is the first work to put weak memory models on the same footing as many other programming effects in Moggi’s standard monadic approach.
Creating the University of the Future: A Global Panorama on Future Skills
Authors: Ehlers Ulf-Daniel , Eigbrecht Laura
Published: April 2024

The challenge of promoting Future Skills is one of the currently most debated ones for higher education institutions all over the world. In this chapter, the editors provide a conceptual basis for the contributed chapters as well as an overview of the sections and contributions of this book. The concept and relevance of Future Skills for Higher Education on a global scale is addressed, followed by an outline of how future universities could look like and which trends will shape this future. Followed by this, the five sections of the Creating the University of the Future book are introduced with short summaries of the chapters and the perspectives they contribute to discussing, promoting and reimagining Future Skills learning in higher education.
Learning Design for Future Skills Development in Small State Contexts
Authors: Gunness Sandhya , Ferreira-Meyers Karen , Daradoumis Thanasis
Published: April 2024

The small Southern African states of Mauritius and Eswatini, with respect to their high levels of digital literacy and telecommunications infrastructure, have great potential for meeting future challenges as regards capacity building and developing a globalized workforce. However, the weaknesses of a decoupled University-Industry R&D collaboration, low-level business sophistication, a lack of appropriate knowledge workers, and manifest skills mismatches could create a difficult future for university graduates in these two countries. Within an African context, and with heavy reliance on imported and globalized products and resources, there is a common need for building resilience, self-efficacy, intra- and entrepreneurial skills, emotional intelligence, and growth mindsets as essential competencies for our future “peopleware”, as opposed to hardware and software. This concept, made popular by Lister and DeMarco, in the context of increasing digitization, brings back the softer and more discerning human elements in times where algorithms are increasingly making decisions and influencing our behavior. This chapter presents an attempt to equip recently graduated young citizens with a set of transdisciplinary skills and competencies which can build the above-mentioned important attributes and values along with the depth of academic knowledge gained at the university. As small state developing countries with colonial backgrounds, our strong sense of community, togetherness, resilience, faith, and tolerance should permeate within our intellectual siege.
Boosting Future Skills in Higher Education. Lessons Learned from Funding Programs, Networking, Establishing Standards & Curricular Integration
Authors: Suessenbach Felix , Koeritz Judith , Wormland Andreas , Koch Henning
Published: April 2024

Facing challenges at an individual, professional, and global level, individuals need a new set of competencies: Future Skills. Higher education plays a central role in teaching these, but their curricular integration can be challenging. The Stifterverband organization has contributed to Future Skills education in higher educations by providing two Future Skills frameworks and funding programs such as “Entrepreneurial Skills”, “Data Literacy Education”, and “Curriculum 4.0.nrw”. Here we share our experiences from these programs to aid decision makers in higher education when implementing Future Skills education. Working with several institutions tackling a variety of challenges when implementing entrepreneurial education allowed us to distill several guidelines for sustainable entrepreneurship education. Including a wide range of experts in our Data Literacy networks, we developed a mutual understanding of and commitment to Data Literacy education—the Data Literacy Charter—and gained valuable experiences working in these networks. Funded with 7.5 mio. €, the large-scale “Curriculum 4.0.nrw” program has been supporting the curricular integration of a range of Future Skills related to digitization. Here we collected the most common obstacles as well as supporting factors when integrating Future Skills into existing curricula as well as suggested solutions to these obstacles.
May the Code Be with You: The 42 Learning Model in Germany
Authors: Ehlers Ulf-Daniel , Eigbrecht Laura
Published: April 2024

42 is a series of software engineering schools in Wolfsburg, Heilbronn, and Berlin that offer humanistic and tech education for 1,800 students. Here, they learn Future Skills for a self-determined life in the digital age—without professors, schedules or grades. For the Global Future Skills initiative, we were able to talk to Dr. Max Senges (Fig. 16.1), director of 42 Wolfsburg/Berlin, about their pedagogy and approach to Future Skills.
Changemaking on Campus
Authors: Costa Judit
Published: April 2024

The world is changing: We live in a fluid and fast-paced world. Societies that were once oceans apart are now completely interconnected; jobs are being created and eliminated at record rates; technical innovation is accompanying our daily lives, as well as an ever faster environmental degradation. In such a world, fundamental questions arise: What does it mean to thrive in this society?
Assessment of Future Skills Learning: Changing Futures in Higher Education
Authors: Geier Nicole , Ehlers Ulf-Daniel
Published: April 2024

Future Skills assessment is currently a hot debated issue. On the one hand it is the only way to move Future Skills into the center of learning in higher education, on the other hand it is difficult to achieve with the usual assessment practices in higher education institutions. In the project presented in this chapter we describe Future Skills modules in form of a concept that accompanies the whole student life-cycle of undergraduates and uses self-assessments and an e-portfolio tool to support students in their Future Skills development. The chapter presents a new vision of assessment based on the need to provide learners with what is called vertical transformation competence (Scharmer, 2018) and to make Future Skills development visible (Ehlers, 2013b, 2020d). Since student self-assessment has proven its potential in higher education, a model is presented that shows how student self-assessments can be integrated into learning and teaching practices at higher education institutions. Those recent concepts highlight the existing attempts to shift assessment culture in higher education from assessment of learning towards a new vision of assessment as learning. It represents a paradigm shift away from what can be measured to what can we learn during and from the assessment to create value for students’ personal growth and professional development.
Developing a More Granular and Equitable Approach to the Learner-Earner Journey. The Role of Badging, Micro-Credentials and Twenty-first Century Skills Within Higher Education to Enable Future Workforce Development
Authors: Barty Grame , Boyer Naomi , Chrysikos Alexandros , Griffith Margo , House Kevin , Laughlin Tara , Ossiannilsson Ebba , Ward Rupert , Zanville Holly
Published: April 2024

This chapter introduces trends within the global skills economy and explores how our learner-earner journeys can best align to these trends. It starts with a discussion of future global workforce skills requirements from higher education courses and discusses emerging Future Skills. It then considers how schools can align with higher education and workforce requirements through a skills-based approach to delivery and how higher education courses can better align to schools, workforce requirements and other potential outputs. The chapter then explores validation models, micro-credentials, and alternative credentials, considering alongside this the role of equity within skills-based education and hiring systems. Finally, it concludes with some key policy and process considerations.
The State of Skills: A Global View from Burning Glass Institute and Wiley
Authors: Ehlers Ulf-Daniel , Eigbrecht Laura
Published: April 2024

While Future Skills are widely discussed, there is also a profound debate on how to measure and assess skills in order to identify skills gaps and design measures to address them. Job markets are undergoing significant changes due to the constant demand for new skills in almost all industries. One in eight U.S. job postings in 2021 require skills in Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Social Media, and Product Management, which are among the fastest-growing and most rapidly spreading skills.
Aiming to Build Future Skills for Society 5.0: Educational DX (Digital Transformation) of University Education in Japan
Authors: Ikeda Keiko
Published: April 2024

This chapter focuses on the concept of Society 5.0, which emerged in response to the current trend of rapid internationalization and globalization in Japan. Society 5.0 aims to improve the quality of people’s daily lives and make all diverse generations members of a “smart society” without leaving them behind. Higher education institutions (HEIs) will further promote close collaboration with industry and provide human resource development and education curricula that place the highest priority on the individual Future Skills needed by the rapidly changing society. In order to realize this new challenge, various urgent efforts are needed, including reform of university governance and introduction of curriculum design specialists into the institutional culture in Japan.
Future Skill Needs for IT Professionals—an Empirical Study
Authors: Brunner Marina , Ehlers Ulf-Daniel
Published: April 2024

The currently EU-wide largest survey on the future of skills for professionals in the IT sector reveals a new configuration in skill demands. The skill study differentiated between three sets of skills: Business, Technical, and Future Skills and surveyed IT and HR professionals from more than 300 organizations in 27 European member states to assess the importance of skills today and within the next three to five years. It took place in the Blockchain sector, which stands exemplary for digital transformation of economies. It turns out that participants attribute high to very high importance to Future Skills over Technical and Business Skills. This brings up questions for new qualification pathways and strategies with a string focus on Future Skills. The study presented here provides an in-depth analysis of surveys and research skill demands for IT professionals and an analysis of skill supply, which has been investigated through a multi-method and multi-stakeholder research design.
Future Skills—Back into the Future? Emerging Trends in Educational Innovation in Higher Education
Authors: Pedró Francesc
Published: April 2024

This chapter begins by revisiting the concept of educational innovation in the context of higher education. It then examines why, for the first time, there is such a broad social consensus on the need to promote educational innovation and why so many higher education institutions are making such an effort to jump on the innovation bandwagon. Second, it discusses some patterns of development that demonstrate that, despite the appearance that the problem that educational innovations should tackle is well-defined, there is no one solution, and efforts are being directed in numerous and diverse avenues. Thirdly, the chapter addresses several of the risks accompanying the growing emphasis on innovation, notably in terms of equality, assessment, and innovation fatigue. Finally, it offers several public policy pathways to facilitate the convergence of discourse and practice toward systemic innovation.
Future Universities as Activating Resonance Spaces. New Roles in Society—Innovative Approaches
Authors: Stark Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

This paper draws on more than five years of intensive debates and explorations with a large number of active and engaged citizens and scholars, teachers, students, staff and university leaders. It will sketch emerging pictures and patterns of the new role of universities as an Activating Resonance Space addressing future societal challenges—beyond teaching and research focused on an industrialized and business-driven world. Based on more than 15 years of engagement in community service learning as a participative and empowering approach of Project-Based Learning and teaching, the paper proposes important steps toward an institutionalization of transformative learning and teaching, which will address current and future societal challenges.
Building a Creative Ecosystem of Intentional Serendipity
Authors: Ehlers Ulf-Daniel , Eigbrecht Laura
Published: April 2024

Tom Wambeke (Fig. 8.1) is a United Nations Senior Executive with a focus on learning innovation and digital transformation, working with cross-functional teams on innovation projects across more than 50 countries. Wambeke has been the Chief of Learning Innovation of the Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ILO) since 2015, specializing in providing sustainable learning solutions with the objective to generate impact and organizational change. Change and transformation are also at the core of this conversation—discussing how we can learn from, for and in uncertain times.
Beyond Future Skills in Higher Education: A New Theory of Change
Authors: Chacón Eglis , Harden-Wolfson Emma , Caballero Luz Gamarra , Liu Bosen Lily , Abdrasheva Dana
Published: April 2024

The role of higher education in equipping students for future paths that are being shaped by major global challenges and yet which remain unpredictable is an area of ongoing concern. This chapter proposes a new theory of change that supports efforts to identify the skills needed by future generations that higher education can provide. It extends the conceptualization to focus on how, through higher education, these skills could shape and refine people and societies. The theory of change is based on the findings of a survey conducted by the UNESCO International Institute for Higher Education in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNESCO IESALC) during 2021, which was completed by almost 1,200 respondents in nearly 100 countries. This theory of change identifies the main skills that will be needed in the future, the accelerators that will facilitate the adoption of these skills, and the ways in which these skills and accelerators might lead to transformation at individual, institutional, and societal levels.
Disentangling responses of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates to drying in saline streams and shallow lakes
Authors: Freixinos Zeus , Gómez Rosa , Alcorlo Paloma , Miñano Jesús , Boadella Judit , Sánchez-Montoya María del Mar
Published: April 2024

In inland aquatic ecosystems, drying and salinity can co-occur as natural stressors, affecting aquatic invertebrate communities. Despite recent appreciation of the importance of temporary waterbodies for terrestrial invertebrates, knowledge about the effects of drying on dynamics of aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate communities is scarce, especially in saline ecosystems. This study analyzed structural and compositional responses of both communities to the coupled effects of drying and salinity in two streams and two shallow lakes in Spain, during three hydrological phases: wet, contraction, and dry. In the two studied saline streams, the contraction phase presented the highest aquatic and terrestrial abundance and richness, and the main compositional changes were mainly due, to an increase in aquatic lentic taxa (e.g., Coleoptera), and Araneae and Formicidae as terrestrial taxa. In shallow lakes, which presented highly variable salinity conditions, the highest abundance and diversity values were found at the wet phase for aquatic invertebrates and at the dry phase for terrestrial invertebrates. Compositional invertebrate community changes were due to a decrease in Rotifera and Anostraca (aquatic taxa) in the contraction phase for aquatic communities, and to an increase of Araneae, Coleoptera, and Formicidae (terrestrial taxa) at the dry phase for the terrestrial. Our study evidences the significant effect of drying on both aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates communities in natural inland saline waters and the need to integrate aquatic and terrestrial perspectives to study temporary inland waters.
Low-Power Energy Harvesting Voltage Doubler Using CTLs Based on Inverse Class-F Configuration Compatible with Fifth Generation
Authors: Mansour Marwa
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a highly efficient and low-power inverse class-F voltage doubler (VD) designed for radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting systems. Specifically tailored for mid-band 5G technology, the VD is designed for operation within the 1240–1300 MHz satellite band. The innovative design employs an inverse class-F architecture, incorporating a $$\lambda /8$$

λ
/
8

short-ended transmission line (TL) connected to the diode anode and a ($$\lambda /12$$

λ
/
12

) open-ended transmission line linked to the input of the voltage doubler. This configuration aims to reshape voltage and current waveforms, effectively reducing losses and series resistance in the diode. Dual-coupled transmission lines (CTLs) are utilized to provide passive voltage boosting at low-input power levels. The suggested voltage doubler is implemented using RO4003C substrate material with a dielectric relative permittivity ($${\upvarepsilon }_{r}$$

ε
r

) of 3.38 and a thickness of 0.81 mm. Measured results demonstrate a minimum input return loss of − 29.3 dB at 1.25 GHz, operating seamlessly within a frequency band from 1.18 to 1.32 GHz. The measured conversion efficiency is 45.2% at an input power (Pin) of − 4dBm. Furthermore, the peak RF–DC efficiency reaches 50% at an input power of 0dBm. Simulated results predict a remarkable conversion efficiency of 60% and 68.7% at − 4dBm and 0 dBm, respectively. In addition to its exceptional performance, the suggested voltage doubler exhibits an experimental DC output voltage of 0.53 V at $$P_{{{\text{in}}}} = - 10{\text{dBm}}$$

P
in

=
-
10
dBm

and a saturated DC voltage of 3.4 V at an input power of 10dBm under a load terminal resistance of 8 KΩ. Finally, the dimensions of the proposed voltage doubler are $$25.3 \times 10.5 {\text{mm}}^{{2}}$$

25.3
×
10.5

mm

2

.
Socioeconomic inequalities in psychosocial well-being among adolescents under the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-regional comparative analysis in Hong Kong, mainland China, and the Netherlands
Authors: Chung Gary Ka-Ki , Liu Xiaoting , Massar Karlijn , Schelleman-Offermans Karen , Bosma Hans , Chan Yat-Hang , Chan Siu-Ming , Chen Ji-Kang , Wong Hung , Chung Roger Yat-Nork
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite evidence on socioeconomic inequalities in psychosocial well-being of adolescents under the COVID-19 pandemic, the explanatory factors and their potential variations across contexts remained understudied. Hence, this cross-regional study compared the extent of inequalities and the mediating pathways across Hong Kong, Mainland China, and the Netherlands.

Methods

Between July 2021 and January 2022, 25 secondary schools from diverse socioeconomic background were purposively sampled from Hong Kong, Zhejiang (Mainland China), and Limburg (the Netherlands). 3595 junior students completed an online survey during class about their socioeconomic position, psychosocial factors, and well-being. Socioeconomic inequalities were assessed by multiple linear regressions using the Slope Index of Inequality (SII), whereas the mediating pathways through learning difficulty, overall worry about COVID-19, impact on family’ financial status, resilience, trust in government regarding pandemic management, and adaptation to social distancing were examined by mediation analyses moderated by regions.

Results

The adverse psychosocial impact of COVID-19 was stronger in the Netherlands and Hong Kong compared with Mainland China. The greatest extent of socioeconomic inequalities in the change in psychosocial well-being was observed among students in the Netherlands (SII = 0.59 [95% CI = 0.38–0.80]), followed by Hong Kong (SII = 0.37 [0.21–0.52]) and Mainland China (SII = 0.12 [0.00–0.23]). Learning difficulty and resilience were the major mediators in Mainland China and Hong Kong, but to a lesser extent in the Netherlands.

Conclusion

Socioeconomic inequalities in psychosocial well-being were evident among adolescents under the pandemic, with learning difficulty and resilience of students as the key mediators. Differences in the social contexts should be considered to better understand the variations in inequalities and mediating pathways across regions.
Atraumatisches Knochenmarködem des Kniegelenks
Authors: Münch Lukas N. , Ackermann Jakob , Deichsel Adrian , Eggeling Lena , Günther Daniel , Kopf Sebastian , Laky Brenda , Mathis Dominic , Schüttler Karl-Friedrich , Wafaisade Arasch , Herbst Elmar
Published: April 2024

Das Knochenmarködem (KMÖ) beschreibt ein Phänomen in der Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT), das sich durch eine Hypointensität auf T1-gewichteten Bildern und eine Hyperintensität auf STIR- oder fettunterdrückten T2-gewichteten Bildern auszeichnet. Das KMÖ-Syndrom (KMÖS) ist dabei eine klinisch-radiologische Entität, bei der vorübergehende, unspezifische, subakute oder chronische Gelenkschmerzen in Verbindung mit charakteristischen MRT-Befunden auftreten, jedoch ohne spezifische sekundäre Ursachen. Pathophysiologisch wird angenommen, dass es durch eine venöse Abflussbehinderung zu Ödemen, erhöhtem intraossärem Druck und schließlich zu einer Beeinträchtigung des arteriellen Zuflusses kommt, was konsekutiv zu einer intraossären Ischämie und Nekrose führen kann. In der Regel gilt das KMÖ als selbstlimitierend über einen Zeitraum von 3 bis zu 18 Monaten. Therapeutische Maßnahmen zur Verkürzung des Verlaufs umfassen allen voran die Entlastung des betroffenen Gelenks für 6 bis 8 Wochen abhängig von Symptomen und radiologischen Verlaufskontrollen. Supportiv können Schmerzmittel und entzündungshemmende Medikamente eingenommen werden. Weitere konservative Behandlungsansätze umfassen die Therapie mit extrakorporalen Stoßwellen oder gepulsten elektromagnetischen Feldern sowie pharmakologische Ansätze wie die Off-label-Gabe von Bisphosphonaten, Prostacyclin-Analoga oder Denosumab. Operative Interventionen wie die Core-Dekompression, perkutane Anbohrung oder Subchondroplastik sollten nur in therapierefraktären Fällen nach Versagen konservativer Maßnahmen erwogen werden.
Enhancing the productivity and proliferation of CHO-K1 cells by oncoprotein YAP (Yes-associated protein)
Authors: Roshanmehr Farnaz , Abdoli Shahriyar , Bazi Zahra , Jari Maryam , Shahbazi Majid
Published: April 2024

CHO cells are extensively employed in biological drug industry to manufacture therapeutic proteins. Nevertheless, production of biopharmaceuticals faces obstacles such as limited growth and inadequate productivity. Employing host cell engineering techniques for CHO cells serves as a valuable approach to address the constraints encountered in biologics manufacturing. Despite advancements, most techniques focus on specific genes to address individual cellular challenges. The significance of YAP, transcriptional co-activator, cannot be overstated due to its involvement in regulating organ size and tumor formation. YAP’s influence extends to various cellular processes and is regulated by kinase cascade in the Hippo pathway, which phosphorylates serine residues in specific LATS recognition motifs. Activation of YAP has been observed to impact both the size and quantity of cells. This research investigates the effects of YAP5SA on proliferation, apoptosis, and productivity in CHO-K1 cells. YAP5SA, with mutations in all five LATS-target sites, is selected for its heightened activity and resistance to repression through the Hippo-LATS1/2 kinase signaling pathway. Plasmid harboring YAP5SA was transfected into EPO-CHO and the influence of YAP5SA overexpression was investigated. According to our findings, transfection of EPO-CHO cells with YAP5SA exhibited a substantial enhancement in CHO cell productivity, resulting in a 3-fold increase in total protein and EPO, as well as a 1.5-fold increase in specific productivity. Additionally, it significantly contributes in augmenting viability, size, and proliferation. Overall, the findings of this study exemplify the potential of utilizing YAP5SA to impact particular cellular mechanisms, thereby presenting an avenue for customizing cells to fulfill production demands.

Key points

• YAP5SA in CHO cells boosts growth, reduces apoptosis, and significantly improves productivity.

• YAP5SA regulates genes involved in proliferation, survival, and mTOR activation.

• YAP5SA increases productivity by improving cell cycle, c-MYC expression, and mTOR pathway.
Hopf bifurcation in an age-structured predator–prey system with Beddington–DeAngelis functional response and constant harvesting
Authors: Wu San-Xing , Wang Zhi-Cheng , Ruan Shigui
Published: April 2024

In this paper, an age-structured predator–prey system with Beddington–DeAngelis (B–D) type functional response, prey refuge and harvesting is investigated, where the predator fertility functionf(a) and the maturation function$$\beta (a)$$β(a)are assumed to be piecewise functions related to their maturation period$$\tau $$τ. Firstly, we rewrite the original system as a non-densely defined abstract Cauchy problem and show the existence of solutions. In particular, we discuss the existence and uniqueness of a positive equilibrium of the system. Secondly, we consider the maturation period$$\tau $$τas a bifurcation parameter and show the existence of Hopf bifurcation at the positive equilibrium by applying the integrated semigroup theory and Hopf bifurcation theorem. Moreover, the direction of Hopf bifurcation and the stability of bifurcating periodic solutions are studied by applying the center manifold theorem and normal form theory. Finally, some numerical simulations are given to illustrate of the theoretical results and a brief discussion is presented.
An Insight into the Hormonal Interplay Regulating Pigment Changes and Colour Development in the Peel of ‘Granny Smith’, ‘OPAL®’ and ‘Royal Gala’ Apples
Authors: Fernández-Cancelo Pablo , Giné-Bordonaba Jordi , Teixidó Neus , Alamar M. Carmen
Published: April 2024

Three apple cultivars with different peel colour and known ripening dynamics were examined throughout development and on-tree ripening to unravel how the hormonal crosstalk may influence colour changes. Our results indicate that the colour of ripe apples in ‘Granny Smith’ and ‘Opal®’ cultivars was primarily influenced by chlorophyll levels masking the contribution of other pigments, whilst the development of red colour in the ‘Royal Gala’ was not only due to an important loss of chlorophyll during ripening but also to anthocyanins accumulation. The interplay amongst indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), ethylene and abscisic acid (ABA) seemed to control pigment content during the later stages of development, indicating that variations in the hormonal profile contribute to colour differences in ripe apples. In ‘Granny Smith’ apples, basal levels of IAA, ethylene and ABA were associated with the inhibition of chlorophyll loss, which was responsible for its green colour, despite the presence of high carotenoid levels. In contrast, the peel of ‘Opal®’ and ‘Royal Gala’ apples underwent a degreening process facilitated by the IAA-mediated activation of ethylene metabolism, in a crosstalk facilitated by MdARF5. The accumulation of anthocyanins in the peel of ‘Royal Gala’ apples seemed to be regulated in an ethylene-dependent manner, with MdMYB1 acting as the mediator between ethylene signalling and the anthocyanins biosynthesis and vacuolar transport pathways. On the other hand, the decline in carotenoid content during fruit development in the three cultivars appeared to be regulated at the catabolic level through ABA and its derivatives and possibly also facilitated by ethylene-mediated mechanisms. Notably, chlorophyll levels, crucial for the observed colour changes, were likely controlled by MdGLK1, a transcription factor involved in chloroplast biogenesis, working in coordination with ethylene-dependent catabolic enzymes. Overall, understanding the cultivar-specific hormonal regulation of apple colour provides valuable insights for developing preharvest and postharvest strategies to ensure an optimal fruit colour aligned with consumer preferences.
Enterobacter cloacae Induces SA-Dependent Systemic Acquired Resistance of Zea mays Against Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Sallam Asmaa A. , Haroun Samia A. , Aboulnaga Elhussiny A. , Mowafy Amr M.
Published: April 2024

Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria have proven themselves in agricultural applications not only as biofertilizers but also as biocontrol agents against different phytopathogens. In this study, we focused on investigating the ability of Enterobacter cloacae to induce the immune response of Zea mays against Fusarium oxysporum infection. The bacterium was transformed with a plasmid to express Green Fluorescence Protein and used in a greenhouse experiment in combination with Fusarium infection in different treatments. E. cloacae successfully colonized the root, resulting in enhanced physical growth with great investment in leaf area, photosynthetic pigment production, and reduced anthocyanin content. E. cloacae left a considerable resistance to root rot caused by Fusarium, as the disease severity was reduced from 74.2% (in the case of Fusarium infection alone) to about 35.8% (in the case of E. cloacae addition 14 days before fungal infection). The amount of salicylic acid (SA) was markedly elevated, and Pathogen-Related Protein showed up to an eightfold increase in the expression level. From these results, we suppose that E. cloacae induces SA-dependent systemic acquired resistance, which allows pre-colonized plants to resist Fusarium infection.
Does lower dose pilocarpine have a role in radiation-induced xerostomia in the modern radiotherapy era? A single-center experience based on patient-reported outcome measures
Authors: Gül Dilek , Atasoy Beste M. , Ercan Ece , Başkan Zilan , Bektaş Kayhan Kıvanç
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the efficacy of lower dose pilocarpine in alleviating late dry mouth symptoms in head and neck cancer patients received radiotherapy.

Methods

Eighteen head and neck cancer patients experiencing persistent dry mouth were enrolled in this study. All participants started pilocarpine treatment a median of 6 months post-radiotherapy. Initially, patients received pilocarpine at 5 mg/day, with a gradual increase to the recommended dose of 15 mg/day. A Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement (PROMs) questionnaire assessed symptoms’ severity related to hyposalivation.

Results

All patients reported symptomatic dry mouth above grade 2 before starting the medication. Pilocarpine treatment continued based on patients’ self-assessment, with a median duration of 12 months (range, 3–36 months). The median daily maintenance dose was 10 mg (range, 5 to 20 mg). Total PROMs scores significantly decreased following medication, from 13 points (range 7–18 points) to 7 points (range 4–13 points) (p = 0.001). Significant improvements were observed in questions related to dry mouth (p < 0.001), water intake during eating (p = 0.01), carrying water (p = 0.01), taste (p < 0.001), and water intake during speech (p < 0.001). Initial and maintenance doses of pilocarpine were lower, and the duration of pilocarpine usage was shorter in patients treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy compared to conformal radiotherapy (12 months vs. 25 months, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Pilocarpine may be considered at doses lower for late-term dry mouth. With modern radiotherapy techniques effectively preserving the parotid gland, short-term use may be recommended in these patients. Future studies may enhance the development of a more robust patient selection criteria model.
Nap polysomnography in infants with laryngomalacia as a tool to predict treatment strategy
Authors: Lajili Mariem , Teissier Natacha , Dudoignon Benjamin , Benoit Charlotte , Bellanger Sophie , Kahn Laureline , Van Den Abbeele Thierry , Delclaux Christophe , Bokov Plamen
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the role of nap polysomnography (NPSG) in predicting treatment strategies for infants with moderate to severe laryngomalacia and to explore the association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity, weight gain, and laryngomalacia severity.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on infants diagnosed with moderate to severe laryngomalacia who underwent NPSG between January 2019 and June 2023. Clinical variables, NPSG parameters, and treatment decisions were collected. Weight gain rate and its correlation with NPSG indices were assessed. Logistic regression analyses were performed to predict treatment strategies based on NPSG findings.

Results

Of the 39 infants included (median age: 3.3 months), 77% exhibited OSA, with 69% having moderate to severe OSA [apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) > 5/h]. Weight gain rate correlated negatively with indices of OSA severity, including the hypopnea index (HI) and the AHI. In a multiple logistic regression analysis incorporating the severity of OSA (AHI), weight gain rate, and laryngomalacia severity, only AHI predicted the decision for surgical or non-invasive ventilation treatment (OR = 2.1, CI95 [1.6; 2.8], p ≤ 10–4). The weight gain rate was predicted (r2 = 0.28) by the AHI and the presence of retractions of auxiliary inspiratory muscles.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of NPSG in assessing infants with moderate to severe laryngomalacia. The AHI from NPSG emerged as a potential predictor for treatment decisions and weight gain rate, emphasizing its clinical relevance. These findings advocate incorporating NPSG into the diagnostic and management process for infants with laryngomalacia.
Lithium systematics in the Krafla volcanic system: comparison between surface rhyolites and felsic cuttings from the Iceland deep drilling project -1 (IDDP-1)
Authors: Cortes-Calderon E. A. , Ellis B. S. , Magna T. , Tavazzani L. , Ulmer P.
Published: April 2024

The unexpected discovery of felsic magma by the Iceland Deep Drilling Project-1 (IDDP-1) in the Krafla volcanic system (KVS) presents a unique opportunity to investigate pre-eruptive lithium (Li) dynamics and establish a more direct connection between magma reservoirs and volcanic deposits. Our study provides new insights into Li abundances and isotope compositions in bulk-rock, minerals, and groundmass glass from rhyolitic lavas at KVS, encompassing various stages of groundmass crystallisation. Additionally, we examined felsic cuttings retrieved from the IDDP-1 well, comprising crystal-poor obsidian and crystal-bearing to -rich ‘felsite’ particles. Groundmass glasses from surface lavas show limited variability in K/Na, indicating limited secondary hydration of the glasses and that their Li contents seem to not be affected by this post-eruptive process. Lithium inventories in groundmass glasses and minerals within lavas exhibit variations consistent with the cooling history of the deposit, resembling patterns seen in Snake River Plain ignimbrites. Lithium contents of glassy rhyolitic lavas, whether bulk-rock (avg. 27.2 ± 3.1 μg/g) or groundmass glass (average 28.4 ± 4.7 μg/g), and their bulk isotopic compositions (avg. δ7Li =+ 4.4 ± 0.2‰) overlap with those observed in IDDP-1 obsidian cuts (avg. 24.9 μg/g Li in bulk, 28.6 ± 1.5 μg/g in groundmass glass, and δ7Li = 4.5 ± 0.2‰). Glassy lavas lacking spherulites may potentially preserve pristine magmatic Li element and isotope compositions, while areas with extensive groundmass crystallisation reveal Li enrichments in phenocrysts. Plagioclases in slowly cooled parts of the deposit record a two-fold increase in Li contents compared to plagioclase found in glassy counterparts, along with evidence of open-system degassing marked by heavier bulk Li isotope compositions and lower bulk Li contents of the crystallised lava portions (avg. δ7Li = +7.2 ± 0.1‰ and 7 ± 0.8 μg/g Li) relative to bulk glassy lithologies (avg. δ7Li = +4.1 ± 0.1‰ and 28 ± 2 μg/g Li). Partition coefficients derived from IDDP-1 cuts successfully predict Li inventories in vitrophyres of rhyolites on the surface of the KVS. Lithium isotope compositions of the crystal-rich IDDP-1 cuts are significantly heavier (avg. δ7Li = +7.2 ± 0.2‰) than lavas and IDDP-1 obsidian cuts, casting doubt on the notion that the IDDP-1 rhyolitic magma could result from the melting of felsite lenses in the KVS. Lithium contents in groundmass glasses within IDDP-1 crystal-rich cuts show higher Li contents (avg. 55.1–60.7 μg/g), correlating with the higher crystal content and an increase in other incompatible elements (avg. 250 μg/g Rb) relative to obsidian cuttings (avg. 75 μg/g Rb).
Leaf trait plasticity reveals interactive effects of temporally disjunct grazing and warming on plant communities
Authors: Ronk Argo , Boldgiv Bazartseren , Casper Brenda B. , Liancourt Pierre
Published: April 2024

Changes in climate and grazing intensity influence plant-community compositions and their functional structure. Yet, little is known about their possible interactive effects when climate change mainly has consequences during the growing season and grazing occurs off growing season (dormant season grazing). We examined the contribution of trait plasticity to the immediate responses in the functional structure of plant community due to the interplay between these two temporally disjunct drivers. We conducted a field experiment in the northern Mongolian steppe, where climate was manipulated by open-top chambers (OTCs) for two growing seasons, increasing temperature and decreasing soil moisture (i.e., increased aridity), and grazing was excluded for one dormant season between these two growing seasons. We calculated the community-weighted mean (CWM) and the functional diversity (FD) of six leaf traits. Based on a variance partitioning approach, we evaluated how much of the responses in CWM and FD to OTCs and dormant season grazing occur through plasticity. The interactive effect of OTCs and the dormant season grazing were detected only after considering the role of trait plasticity. Overall, OTCs influenced the responses in CWM more than in FD, but the effects of OTCs were much less pronounced where dormant season grazing occurred. Thus, warming (together with decreased soil moisture) and the elimination of dormant season grazing could interact to impact the functional trait structure of plant communities through trait plasticity. Climate change effects should be considered in the context of altered land use, even if temporally disjunct.
Assessment and management of vitamin status in children with CKD stages 2–5, on dialysis and post-transplantation: clinical practice points from the Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce
Authors: Anderson Caroline E. , Tuokkola Jetta , Qizalbash Leila , Harmer Matthew , Nelms Christina L. , Stabouli Stella , Toole Barry , Polderman Nonnie , Desloovere An , Renken-Terhaerdt Jose , Vega Molly R. Wong , Snauwaert Evelien , Walle Johan Vande , Haffner Dieter , Paglialonga Fabio , Shroff Rukshana , Shaw Vanessa , Greenbaum Larry A. , Warady Bradley A.
Published: April 2024

Children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at risk for vitamin deficiency or excess. Vitamin status can be affected by diet, supplements, kidney function, medications, and dialysis. Little is known about vitamin requirements in CKD, leading to practice variation.

The Pediatric Renal Nutrition Taskforce (PRNT), an international team of pediatric kidney dietitians and pediatric nephrologists, was established to develop evidence-based clinical practice points (CPPs) to address challenges and to serve as a resource for nutritional care. Questions were formulated using PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes), and literature searches undertaken to explore clinical practice from assessment to management of vitamin status in children with CKD stages 2–5, on dialysis and post-transplantation (CKD2-5D&T). The CPPs were developed and finalized using a Delphi consensus approach. We present six CPPs for vitamin management for children with CKD2-5D&T. We address assessment, intervention, and monitoring. We recommend avoiding supplementation of vitamin A and suggest water-soluble vitamin supplementation for those on dialysis. In the absence of evidence, a consistent structured approach to vitamin management that considers assessment and monitoring from dietary, physical, and biochemical viewpoints is needed. Careful consideration of the impact of accumulation, losses, comorbidities, and medications needs to be explored for the individual child and vitamin before supplementation can be considered. When supplementing, care needs to be taken not to over-prescribe. Research recommendations are suggested.
Common Singularities of Commuting Vector Fields
Authors: Biliotti Leonardo , Windare Oluwagbenga Joshua
Published: April 2024

We study the singularities of commuting vector fields of a real submanifold of a Kähler manifold Z.
Magic squares, the symmetric group and Möbius randomness
Authors: Gorodetsky Ofir
Published: April 2024

Diaconis and Gamburd computed moments of secular coefficients in the CUE ensemble. We use the characteristic map to give a new combinatorial proof of their result. We also extend their computation to moments of traces of symmetric powers, where the same result holds but in a wider range. Our combinatorial proof is inspired by gcd matrices, as used by Vaughan and Wooley and by Granville and Soundararajan. We use these CUE computations to suggest a conjecture about moments of characters sums twisted by the Liouville (or by the Möbius) function, and establish a version of it in function fields. The moral of our conjecture (and its verification in function fields) is that the Steinhaus random multiplicative function is a good model for the Liouville (or for the Möbius) function twisted by a random Dirichlet character. We also evaluate moments of secular coefficients and traces of symmetric powers, without any condition on the size of the matrix. As an application we give a new formula for a matrix integral that was considered by Keating, Rodgers, Roditty-Gershon and Rudnick in their study of the k-fold divisor function.
Systematic adaptation and investigation of the understandability of a formal pattern language
Authors: Henkel Elisabeth , Hauff Nico , Langenfeld Vincent , Eber Lukas , Podelski Andreas
Published: April 2024

Formal pattern languages are used in industry to communicate and analyse requirements, as they are said to be both machine-readable and intuitively understandable for humans. The questions arise to what extent this intuitive understanding of a pattern language is in agreement with its formal semantics and whether this understanding can be increased systematically. We present two consecutive empirical experiments to address these questions. The formal semantics serves as an objective judge on the intuitive understanding. Our experiments confirm the practical usefulness of HanforPL  insofar the intuition matches the formal semantics in most practically relevant cases. They also reveal a number of edge cases where even a prior exposure to formal logic is not a guarantee for correct understanding. We present and validate systematic adjustments to the patterns, leading to several large increases in understandability but come at the cost of new, but less impactful ambiguities. We demonstrate how an inquiry on the alignment of the intuitive and formal semantics of a pattern language can help to understand and improve the language. While results regarding the understandability of HanforPL are favourable in commonly used cases, there is potential for improvement. The systematic adaption of patterns shows that small modifications may have large effects on the alignment of formal and intuitive semantics, and that modification must be considered with caution in the context of the respective pattern to avoid unintentionally adding new ambiguities. This article is an extension of our published REFSQ paper.