bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of prolonged hospitalization on the maintenance of oral health: A self‐report survey
Authors: Weiss Shula , Tinsky Nurit , Oren Liat , Chodick Gabi , Spierer Shoshana , Yarom Noam , Ashkenazi Malka
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the effect of prolonged hospitalization on the maintenance of dental health and to assess the nursing staff's approach to addressing these concerns.

Methods

A survey questionnaire explored changes in the routine dental care of patients hospitalized for over a month. The involvement of nursing staff in addressing dental care was also evaluated.

Results

Fifty adult patients aged 18–89 years (mean age 62.4 ± 20.54 years), 27 (54%) males, completed the survey. During hospitalization (mean 58.59 ± 38.63 days) 26% and 18%, increased consumption of sweets and sugary beverages, between meals, respectively; 26% and 20% of the patients reduced the frequency of tooth brushing in the morning and in the evening, respectively, and 42.2% of them, reduced the quality of their toothbrushing during hospitalization. Nevertheless, 95.9% and 93.9% of them were never instructed during hospitalization to limit their consumption of sweets and sugary beverages and 83.3% and 62.5% of them had never been reminded or offered assistance during hospitalization in performing toothbrushing, respectively. The lower frequency of morning toothbrushing was significantly correlated with a lack of nurses' assistance (p = 0.004). In contrast, 62.6% reported they were reminded every day to shower. Patients in the rehabilitation and geriatrics departments reported a greater need for a brush/toothpaste (p < 0.0001) and assistance in toothbrushing (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Prolonged hospitalization leads to significant deterioration in inpatients' dental health maintenance. Raising awareness among nurses regarding their inpatient's oral health maintenance is warranted. Providing patients with toothbrushes, toothpaste and educational materials upon hospitalization is recommended.
The Turkish version of nursing practice readiness scale: Cross‐cultural adaptation and psychometric evaluation
Authors: Baris Veysel Karani , Yilmaz Aysegul , Celik Isa , Keskin Ayse Yildiz , Bektas Murat , Intepeler Seyda Seren
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aims to adapt the “Nursing Practice Readiness Scale” to Turkish culture, and evaluate its psychometric properties.

Background

New graduates' nursing practice readiness can impact their work adaptation and performance.

Design

The research employed a methodological design.

Methods

Data were collected between May and July 2022. The sample consisted of 436 newly graduated nurses. Content validity, construct validity and criterion validity were evaluated. Reliability was examined with adjusted item‐total correlation, Cronbach's a coefficient, composite‐reliability and split‐half reliability.

Results

The Turkish version of Nursing Practice Readiness Scale was found to have good content and criterion validity. As a result of confirmatory factor analysis, the original five‐factor structure of the scale was also confirmed for the Turkish version. The scale's overall Cronbach's α coefficient was determined to be 0.96, with subscale coefficients ranging from 0.73 to 0.94.

The composite reliability values of the subscales were found between 0.75 and 0.94. In split‐half reliability, the correlation coefficient between half was 0.952, with a Spearman–Brown Coefficient (Unequal Length) of 0.976.

Conclusions

The Turkish version of Nursing Practice Readiness Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool for evaluating the nursing practice readiness of newly graduated nurses.
Shaping immunity: The influence of natural selection on population immune diversity
Authors: Randolph Haley E. , Aracena Katherine A. , Lin Yen‐Lung , Mu Zepeng , Barreiro Luis B.
Published: April 2024

Humans exhibit considerable variability in their immune responses to the same immune challenges. Such variation is widespread and affects individual and population‐level susceptibility to infectious diseases and immune disorders. Although the factors influencing immune response diversity are partially understood, what mechanisms lead to the wide range of immune traits in healthy individuals remain largely unexplained. Here, we discuss the role that natural selection has played in driving phenotypic differences in immune responses across populations and present‐day susceptibility to immune‐related disorders. Further, we touch on future directions in the field of immunogenomics, highlighting the value of expanding this work to human populations globally, the utility of modeling the immune response as a dynamic process, and the importance of considering the potential polygenic nature of natural selection. Identifying loci acted upon by evolution may further pinpoint variants critically involved in disease etiology, and designing studies to capture these effects will enrich our understanding of the genetic contributions to immunity and immune dysregulation.
Effect of low uterine segment involvement on prognosis of early stage endometrial cancer
Authors: Akdöner Aslı , Kurt Sefa , Yavuz Onur , Bayram Emre , Üresin Merve , Ulukuş Emine Çağnur
Published: April 2024

Aim

Our aim is to investigate the effect of uterine lower segment involvement on prognosis of early‐stage endometrial cancer cases diagnosed and treated in our clinic.

Materials and Methods

The file records of 316 cases reviewed retrospectively.Only stage I (a and b, n=209) cases were investigated, because they were more homogeneous group.

Results

The lymphovascular invasion rate was found to be higher in patients with stage Ia and uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). Adjuvant treatment requirement was higher in patients with stage Ia and uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). Among stage Ia cases, the recurrence rate between 1 and 3 years was found to be higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p = 0.001). Among the stage Ib cases, lymphovascular invasion was found to be higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). The recurrence rate between 1 and 3 years was found to be higher in stage Ib compared to Ia (p = 0.01). Uterine lower segment involvement was found to be associated with high lymphovascular invasion rate in all stage I cases (p < 0.001). It was determined that the need for adjuvant treatment was higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p < 0.001). It was determined that the probability of recurrence between 1 and 3 years was higher in cases with uterine lower segment involvement (p = 0.007).

Conclusion

Uterine lower segment involvement is associated with increased lymphovascular invasion even in the early stages. It is an important risk factor for systemic spread such as lymphovascular invasion, myometrial invasion, and lymph node involvement.
Honokiol regulates ovarian cancer cell malignant behavior through YAP/TAZ pathway modulation
Authors: Liu Fang , Zhang Yufang , Xia Xinyi , Han Jing , Cao Linyan
Published: April 2024

Background

Ovarian cancer (OVCA) stands as one of the most fatal gynecological malignancies. Honokiol (HNK) has been substantiated by numerous studies for its anti‐tumor activity against malignancies including OVCA. Consequently, this work was designed to elucidate the impact of HNK‐mediated modulation of the YAP/TAZ pathway on the biological functions of OVCA cells.

Methods

OVCA cells were subjected to treatment with varying concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 μM) of HNK, concomitant with the administration of YAP agonist (XMU). Assessment of cellular viability was executed employing the CCK‐8 assay, while quantification of cellular proliferation transpired via colony formation assays. Apoptosis was ascertained using flow cytometry, and expression of apoptosis‐related proteins (caspase‐3, Bcl‐2, Bax), EMT‐related proteins (E‐cadherin, N‐cadherin), migration‐associated proteins (MMP‐2, MMP‐9), and YAP/TAZ pathway‐related proteins was evaluated by western blot. Transwell experiments were conducted to assess cellular migratory and invasive propensities. Xenograft tumor models were built to observe tumor growth (volume and weight), apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL staining, and Ki67 expression was evaluated through IHC.

Results

HNK exerted inhibitory effects on the viability and proliferative capacity of OVCA cells, elicited apoptotic responses, curtailed the migratory and invasive tendencies of cells, and downregulated the YAP/TAZ pathway. Stimulation with YAP agonist (XMU‐MP‐1) partially attenuated the impacts of HNK on OVCA cell biology. Experiments in vivo confirmed that HNK inhibited OVCA tumor growth.

Conclusion

The outcomes of this investigation conclusively established that HNK orchestrated the modulation of the YAP/TAZ pathway, thereby exerting control over the malignant phenotypic manifestations of OVCA cells. The ascertained function of HNK in restraining cellular proliferation and tumor progression provided novel evidence of its anti‐proliferative activity within OVCA cells.
In vitro digestibility and solubility of phosphorus of three plant‐based meat analogues
Authors: Wehrmaker Ariane Maike , de Groot Wouter , Jan van der Goot Atze , Keppler Julia Katharina , Bosch Guido
Published: April 2024

Interest in plant‐based meat analogues has increased and can be expected to be applied to pet foods, which necessitates the understanding of the nutrient supply in those foods. Our primary aim was to advance our understanding of the digestive properties of sterilized plant‐based meat analogues. The impact of the preparatory processing steps on the solubility of meat analogues was studied. Meat analogues were made by mixing water, salt, and wheat gluten with soy protein isolate, pea protein isolate, or faba bean concentrate. Mixed materials were processed into model meat analogues using shear cell technology. Products were canned in water or gravy and sterilized. An animal‐based canned pet food was made as a reference. Products sampled at the processing steps (mixing, shearing, sterilization) were digested in vitro. Samples of digestate were taken at the gastric phase (0 and 120 min) and small intestinal phase (120, 200, 280, and 360 min) for analysis of protein hydrolysis. The extent digestion of nitrogen and dry matter was determined at the end of incubation. Total phosphorus, soluble phosphorus after acid treatment, and after acid and enzymatic treatment were determined. The degree of hydrolysis after gastric digestion was low but increased immediately in the small intestinal phase; products based on pea had the highest values (56%). Nitrogen digestibility was above 90% for all materials at each processing step, indicating that bioactive compounds were absent or inactivated in the protein isolates and concentrate. Phytate seemed to play a minor role in meat analogues, but phosphorus solubility was influenced by processing. Shearing decreased soluble phosphorus, but this effect was partly reversed by sterilization. Nutrient digestibility as well as phosphorus solubility in plant‐based products was higher than or comparable with the reference pet food. These findings show that the digestive properties of the tested plant‐based meat analogues do not limit the supply of amino acids and phosphorus.
The first MASH drug therapy on the horizon: Current perspectives of resmetirom
Authors: Petta Salvatore , Targher Giovanni , Romeo Stefano , Pajvani Utpal B. , Zheng Ming‐Hua , Aghemo Alessio , Valenti Luca V. C.
Published: April 2024

The rising prevalence of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) poses a significant global health challenge, affecting over 30% of adults worldwide. MASLD is linked to increased mortality rates and substantial healthcare costs, primarily driven by its progression to metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH), which can lead to severe liver complications including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite its growing burden, effective pharmacotherapy for MASLD/MASH has been lacking until the recent conditional approval of resmetirom by the FDA. Resmetirom, a liver‐targeted thyroid hormone receptor‐β selective drug, has shown promise in clinical trials for treating non‐cirrhotic MASH with moderate to advanced fibrosis. It has demonstrated efficacy in reducing hepatic fat content, improving liver histology (both MASH resolution and fibrosis improvement), and ameliorating biomarkers of liver damage without significant effects on body weight or glucose metabolism. Notably, resmetirom also exhibits favourable effects on circulating lipids, potentially reducing cardiovascular risk in MASLD/MASH patients. The safety profile of resmetirom appears acceptable, with gastrointestinal adverse events being the most common, though generally mild or moderate. However, long‐term surveillance is warranted to monitor for potential risks related to thyroid, gonadal, or bone diseases. Clinical implementation of resmetirom faces challenges in patient selection and monitoring treatment response, and will heavily rely on non‐invasive tests for liver fibrosis assessment. Nonetheless, resmetirom represents a landmark breakthrough in MASLD/MASH treatment, paving the way for future therapeutic strategies aiming to mitigate the multifaceted risks associated with this complex metabolic liver disease.
Changing landscape of alcohol‐associated liver disease in younger individuals, women, and ethnic minorities
Authors: Arab Juan P , Dunn Winston , Im Gene , Singal Ashwani K.
Published: April 2024

Alcohol use is the most important determinant of the development of alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) and of predicting long‐term outcomes in those with established liver disease. Worldwide, the amount, type, and pattern of use of alcohol vary. Alcohol use and consequent liver disease have been increasing in certain ethnic groups especially Hispanics and Native Americans, likely due to variations in genetics, cultural background, socio‐economic status, and access to health care. Furthermore, the magnitude and burden of ALD have been increasing especially in the last few years among females and young adults who are at the prime of their productivity. It is critical to recognize the problem and care for these patients integrating cultural aspects in liver clinics. At the federal level, a societal approach is needed with the implementation of public health policies aiming to reduce alcohol consumption in the community. By addressing these challenges and promoting awareness, we can strive to reduce the burden of ALD, especially in high‐risk demographic groups to improve their long‐term health outcomes. Finally, we need studies and quality research examining these changing landscapes of demographics in ALD as a basis for developing therapeutic targets and interventions to reduce harmful drinking behaviours in these high‐risk demographic groups.
Genetic legacies of mega‐landslides: Cycles of isolation and contact across flank collapses in an oceanic island
Authors: Noguerales Víctor , Arjona Yurena , García‐Olivares Víctor , Machado Antonio , López Heriberto , Patiño Jairo , Emerson Brent C.
Published: April 2024

Catastrophic flank collapses are recognized as important drivers of insular biodiversity dynamics, through the disruption of species ranges and subsequent allopatric divergence. However, little empirical data supports this conjecture, with their evolutionary consequences remaining poorly understood. Using genome‐wide data within a population genomics and phylogenomics framework, we evaluate how mega‐landslides have impacted evolutionary and demographic history within a species complex of weevils (Curculionidae) within the Canary Island of Tenerife. We reveal a complex genomic landscape, within which individuals of single ancestry were sampled in areas characterized by long‐term geological stability, relative to the timing of flank collapses. In contrast, individuals of admixed ancestry were almost exclusively sampled within the boundaries of flank collapses. Estimated divergence times among ancestral populations aligned with the timings of mega‐landslide events. Our results provide first evidence for a cyclical dynamic of range fragmentation and secondary contact across flank collapse landscapes, with support for a model where this dynamic is mediated by Quaternary climate oscillations. The context within which we reveal climate and topography to interact cyclically through time to shape the geographic structure of genetic variation, together with related recent work, highlights the importance of topoclimatic phenomena as an agent of diversification within insular invertebrates.
Supporting and rejecting the populist radical right: Evidence from contemporary Chile
Authors: Rovira Kaltwasser Cristóbal , Salas‐Lewin Rocío , Zanotti Lisa
Published: April 2024

Although the populist radical right (PRR) has become a global phenomenon, most studies of it focus on Europe. Moreover, extant research has centred on analysing those who support rather than reject the PRR. To address this twofold research gap, we rely on novel public opinion data to examine those who both ‘love’ and ‘hate’ the PRR in contemporary Chile. We demonstrate not only that those in favour of the Chilean PRR are a homogeneous constituency with similar characteristics to their European brethren (e.g., xenophobic attitudes) but also that those at odds with the Chilean PRR make up a relatively large and heterogeneous constituency. In summary, this contribution seeks to broaden comparative studies on the PRR and to show the relevance of studying support as well as rejection of the PRR, particularly in countries with runoff elections; since then, large segments of the electorate vote for the lesser evil.
The effects of using heel protectors on the prevention of heel pressure injuries and plantar flexion contractures
Authors: Arslan Kubra , Ates Sebahat
Published: April 2024

Background

Immobilization in the intensive care unit can lead to pressure injuries and plantar flexion contractures.

Aim

This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of heel protectors applied for the prevention of heel pressure injuries and plantar flexion contractures in intensive care units.

Methods

This study was conducted as a randomized controlled trial in two adult intensive care units of a teaching and research hospital. The study sample consisted of 84 patients admitted to intensive care units between January 2022 and December 2022. Patients who had been in the intensive care unit for at least 5 days, scored 16 or less on the Braden Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Scale and scored 4 or more on the Ramsey Sedation Scale, were included in the study. Heel protector boots were applied to the heels of the patients in the intervention group, while standard positioning with a pillow and ROM exercises were continued in the control group. A sociodemographic data form, the Ramsey Sedation Scale and the Braden Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Scale were used to collect data. While pressure injuries were evaluated with the International NPUAP‐EPUAP Pressure Ulcer Classification System, goniometric measurements were made to evaluate joint ROM.

Results

In the intervention group, heel pressure injuries did not develop during the study, whereas five patients in the control group developed heel pressure injuries. The risk of pressure injury development that was seen in the control group was 1.7 times higher compared with the risk for the intervention group (log 95% CI: 0.91–2.59). There were significant differences between the right foot (99%; F = 99.229; p = .000) and left foot (99%; F = 100.519; p = .000) in range of motion measurement values of the patients in the intervention group according to the measurement times. According to the results of the multiple comparison test (Bonferroni) performed to determine the range of motion measurement periods showing significant differences, it was observed that each measurement for both feet yielded lower results than the previous measurement (seven measurements from day 1 to day 13).

Conclusion

The use of heel protector boots was found to be effective in preventing the development of heel pressure injuries and plantar flexion contractures in intensive care unit patients.

Relevance for Clinical Practice

This study provides evidence that intensive care nurses can use heel protector boots to prevent the development of heel pressure injuries and plantar flexion contractures.
Multilayer diffusion networks as a tool to assess the structure and functioning of fine grain sub‐specific plant–pollinator networks
Authors: Allen‐Perkins Alfonso , Hurtado María , García‐Callejas David , Godoy Oscar , Bartomeus Ignasi
Published: April 2024

Interaction networks are a widely used tool to understand the dynamics of plant–pollinator ecological communities. However, while most mutualistic networks have been defined at the species level, ecological processes such as pollination take place at different scales, including the individual or patch levels. Yet, current approaches studying fine‐grain sub‐specific plant–pollinator networks only account for interactions among nodes belonging to a single plant species due to the conceptual and mathematical limitations of modeling simultaneously several plant species each composed of several nodes. Here, we introduce a multilayer diffusion network framework that allows modeling simple diffusion processes between nodes pertaining to the same or different layers (i.e. species). It is designed to depict from the network structure the potential conspecific and heterospecific pollen flows among plant individuals or patches. This potential pollen flow is modeled as a transport‐like system, in which pollen grain movements are represented as random‐walkers that diffuse on an ensemble of bipartite layers of conspecific plants and their shared pollinators. We exemplify this physical conceptualization using a dataset of nine fine‐grain sub‐specific plant–pollinator networks from a Mediterranean grassland of annual plants, where plant nodes represent groups of conspecifics within patches of 1 m2. The diffusion networks show pollinators effectively connecting sets of patches of the same and different plant species, forming a modular structure. Interestingly, different properties of the network structure, such as the conspecific pollen arrival probability and the number of conspecific subgraphs in which plants are embedded, are critical for the seed production of different plant species. We provide a simple but robust set of metrics to calculate potential pollen flow and scale down network ecology to functioning properties at the individual or patch level, where most ecological processes take place, hence moving forward the description and interpretation of species‐rich communities across scales.
Improving perioperative acetaminophen administration for safer and cost‐effective multimodal analgesia in pediatric surgery: A QI initiative
Authors: Mahon Richard M. , Rajbhandari Prabi , Brown Todd A. , Engler Laurie J. , Bhalla Tarun
Published: April 2024

Background

The use of acetaminophen in the perioperative period has emerged as an attractive option for providing safer and cost‐effective analgesia in children.

Aims

The primary aim of our project was to increase the use of acetaminophen (both oral and intravenous) in the perioperative period from a baseline of 39.5% to 50% for all surgical patients within 24 months. The secondary aim was to increase the use of enteral acetaminophen from 10% to 52.5% during the same period.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team was formed, and model for improvement was chosen as the QI methodology. The primary measure was the total percentage of surgical patients receiving any form of perioperative acetaminophen, while our secondary measure was the percentage use of oral acetaminophen administration. We also tracked the average maximum PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit) pain scores and the percentage of patients receiving IV opioids. Multiple interventions were conducted, including education, increasing the availability of acetaminophen, and optimizing the electronic medical record (EMR). Monthly data was collected using an automated report in the EMR.

Results

We successfully achieved our goal, increasing the use of acetaminophen from 39.5% to 70% within four months. Despite some fluctuations, by the end of 24 months, we not only met but surpassed our goal, with 63% of patients receiving perioperative acetaminophen. Similarly, the usage of oral acetaminophen increased from a baseline of 10% to 78%. Our average maximum PACU pain scores improved from 5.4 to 5.2, and the percentage of patients receiving rescue opioids decreased from 15.4 to 13.1.

Conclusion

We successfully achieved and sustained our goals of improving acetaminophen use for our surgical patients without worsening pain scores or worsening use of intravenous opioids. Future directions include further refining our strategies and exploring additional opportunities to optimize pain management in pediatric perioperative settings.
A viral protein competitively bound to rice CIPK23 inhibits potassium absorption and facilitates virus systemic infection in rice
Authors: Jing Xinxin , Wang Pengyue , Liu Jianjian , Xiang Meirong , Song Xia , Wang Chaonan , Li Pengbai , Li Honglian , Wu Zujian , Zhang Chao
Published: April 2024

Potassium (K+) plays a crucial role as a macronutrient in the growth and development of plants. Studies have definitely determined the vital roles of K+ in response to pathogen invasion. Our previous investigations revealed that rice plants infected with rice grassy stunt virus (RGSV) displayed a reduction in K+ content, but the mechanism by which RGSV infection subverts K+ uptake remains unknown. In this study, we found that overexpression of RGSV P1, a specific viral protein encoded by viral RNA1, results in enhanced sensitivity to low K+ stress and exhibits a significantly lower rate of K+ influx compared to wild‐type rice plants. Further investigation revealed that RGSV P1 interacts with OsCIPK23, an upstream regulator of Shaker K+ channel OsAKT1. Moreover, we found that the P1 protein recruits the OsCIPK23 to the Cajal bodies (CBs). In vivo assays demonstrated that the P1 protein competitively binds to OsCIPK23 with both OsCBL1 and OsAKT1. In the nucleus, the P1 protein enhances the binding of OsCIPK23 to OsCoilin, a homologue of the signature protein of CBs in Arabidopsis, and facilitates their trafficking through these CB structures. Genetic analysis indicates that mutant in oscipk23 suppresses RGSV systemic infection. Conversely, osakt1 mutants exhibited increased sensitivity to RGSV infection. These findings suggest that RGSV P1 hinders the absorption of K+ in rice plants by recruiting the OsCIPK23 to the CB structures. This process potentially promotes virus systemic infection but comes at the expense of inhibiting OsAKT1 activity.
Flavour improvement in early generations of fresh market tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum): I. Identification of QTL for sensory attributes, physicochemical measurements and volatile compounds
Authors: Hagenguth Julia , Kanski Larissa , Kahle Hannah , Becker Heiko C. , Horneburg Bernd
Published: April 2024

Human sensory analysis is the most appropriate method for assessing the flavour of fresh market tomatoes, but it is very labour and time consuming. Therefore, sensory attributes are often neglected in early generations of breeding programmes and genetic studies, although there is a demand for tomatoes with improved flavour. In this study, the recently developed Breeders' Sensory Test was applied to an F2mapping population derived from two parents with superior flavour. Sensory attributes, physicochemical measurements, volatiles and fruit weight were assessed in organic low‐input and hydroponic cultivation. A linkage map spanning 1070 cM was developed. In total, 71 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were detected for the means of both cultivation systems, 61 for organic and 46 for hydroponic cultivation. A proportion of 27% of the loci were co‐localized between both cultivation systems. Nine distinct QTL clusters for flavour‐related traits were identified, including a large cluster on chromosome 6 comprising five sensory and nine volatile QTL. The sensory QTL on chromosomes 2, 5, 6, 10 and 11, partly within clusters, are recommended for marker‐assisted selection.
Histone variant H2A.Z is required for plant salt response by regulating gene transcription
Authors: Miao Rongqing , Zhang Yue , Liu Xinxin , Yuan Yue , Zang Wei , Li Zhiqi , Yan Xiufeng , Pang Qiuying , Zhang Aiqin
Published: April 2024

As a well‐conserved histone variant, H2A.Z epigenetically regulates plant growth and development as well as the interaction with environmental factors. However, the role of H2A.Z in response to salt stress remains unclear, and whether nucleosomal H2A.Z occupancy work on the gene responsiveness upon salinity is obscure. Here, we elucidate the involvement of H2A.Z in salt response by analysing H2A.Z disorder plants with impaired or overloaded H2A.Z deposition. The salt tolerance is dramatically accompanied by H2A.Z deficiency and reacquired in H2A.Z OE lines. H2A.Z disorder changes the expression profiles of large‐scale of salt responsive genes, announcing that H2A.Z is required for plant salt response. Genome‐wide H2A.Z mapping shows that H2A.Z level is induced by salt condition across promoter, transcriptional start site (TSS) and transcription ending sites (−1 kb to +1 kb), the peaks preferentially enrich at promoter regions near TSS. We further show that H2A.Z deposition within TSS provides a direct role on transcriptional control, which has both repressive and activating effects, while it is found generally H2A.Z enrichment negatively correlate with gene expression level response to salt stress. This study shed light on the H2A.Z function in salt tolerance, highlighting the complex regulatory mechanisms of H2A.Z on transcriptional activity for yielding appropriate responses to particularly environmental stress.
Probability discounting and money pumps
Authors: Kosonen Petra
Published: April 2024

In response to cases that involve tiny probabilities of huge payoffs, some argue that we ought to discount small probabilities down to zero. However, this paper shows that doing so violates Independence and Continuity, and as a result of these violations, those who discount small probabilities can be exploited by money pumps. Various possible ways of avoiding exploitation will be discussed. This paper concludes that the money pump for Independence undermines the plausibility of discounting small probabilities. Much of the discussion on Independence generalizes to other views that also violate Independence.
Angular traveling waves of the high‐dimensional Boussinesq equation
Authors: Esfahani Amin
Published: April 2024

This paper studies traveling waves with nonzero wave speed (angular traveling waves) of the high‐dimensional Boussinesq equation that have not been studied before. We analyze the properties of these waves and demonstrate that, unlike the unique stationary solution, they lack positivity, radial symmetry, and exponential decay. By employing variational and geometric approaches, along with perturbation theory, we establish the orbital (in)stability and strong instability of these traveling waves.
A 6‐year longitudinal exploration of diversity in ethnically/racially minoritized children's early peer circles
Authors: Bennet Anna , Kuchirko Yana , Halim May Ling D. , Costanzo Philip R. , Martin Carol L. , Stanaland Adam , Ruble Diane
Published: April 2024

Exposure to diverse peers can expand children's experiences and skillsets, and these positive effects linger beyond childhood. Yet, little is known about the ethnic/racial, gender, and age diversity in children's peer groups and how it may shift over time. Even less is known about these patterns among US nonwhite children. In the present study, we thus explored how diversity (with regard to ethnicity/race, gender, and age) in ethnically minoritized children's peer groups change from infancy through early childhood and tested whether the diversity of early peer groups remained stable across time. Over a 6‐year period we followed 234 children (ages 1–6; 115 girls) from three large ethnic/racial minority groups in the United States: African American, Dominican American, and Mexican American. With age, children's peer groups increased in ethnic/racial diversity but decreased in gender and age diversity. Moreover, children's early peer diversity (at/around age 2–4) positively predicted the diversity of their later peer groups (at/around age 6) across all three types of diversity. This study provides novel insights into how children's peer groups change and grow in early development, particularly focusing on children from backgrounds that have been historically underrepresented in psychological science.
The novel HLA‐DPB1*1467:01 allele characterised by two different sequencing‐based typing techniques
Authors: Dhuyser Adèle , Pérès Michaël , Clément Sandra , Morel Thomas , Aarnink Alice
Published: April 2024

The novel allele HLA‐DPB1*1467:01 differs from HLA‐DPB1*09:01:01:01 by one non‐synonymous nucleotide substitution in exon 2.
The novel HLA‐DRB1*11:323 allele characterized by two different sequencing‐based typing techniques
Authors: Dhuyser Adèle , Pérès Michaël , Clément Sandra , Morel Thomas , Aarnink Alice
Published: April 2024

The novel allele HLA‐DRB1*11:323 differs from HLA‐DRB1*11:01:02:01 by one non‐synonymous nucleotide substitution in exon 2.
The novel HLA‐DPA1*02:117 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Sang Li‐na , An Lin , Ding Pei‐pei , Xue Han‐chun , Xing Hai‐zhou
Published: April 2024

HLA‐DPA1*02:117 differs from HLA‐DPA1*02:02:02:01 by one nucleotide in exon 2.
Two novel HLA class I alleles: HLA‐A*02:1148 and HLA‐B*44:386
Authors: Loginova Maria , Makhova Olga , Paramonov Igor
Published: April 2024

Identification of the novel HLA‐A*02:1148 and HLA‐B*44:386 alleles by next‐generation sequencing.
Identification of the novel HLA‐B*13:191 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Lee Jong Kwon , Lee Hyun‐Woo , Lee Sookyeon , Lim Sori , Kang Eun‐Suk
Published: April 2024

The novel HLA‐B*13:191 allele was detected during the HLA typing for kidney transplantation.
Identification of the novel HLA‐DPA1*02:02:15 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Dong Lina , Chen Chen , He Yizhen , Zhang Wei , Zhu Faming
Published: April 2024

The novel HLA‐DPA1*02:02:15 allele differs from HLA‐DPA1*02:02:02:01 by one nucleotide substitution in exon 1.
Recognition of the HLA‐C*07:359 allele in Taiwanese individuals
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: April 2024

One nucleotide substitution in codon 264 of HLA‐C*07:02:01:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐C*07:359.
Next‐generation sequencing identifies two novel HLA‐DQB1 alleles, HLA‐DQB1*03:519 and HLA‐DQB1*06:01:35
Authors: Loginova Maria , Repnicyna Kristina , Paramonov Igor
Published: April 2024

We identified two novel HLA‐DQB1 alleles by NGS, HLA‐DQB1*03:519 and HLA‐DQB1*06:01:35.
Ophthalmic findings and parameters in Western tiger salamanders (Ambystoma mavortium) from northern Colorado
Authors: Kansman Kyle J. , Sadar Miranda J. , Daniels Joshua B. , Klaphake Eric , de Linde Henriksen Michala
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to document ophthalmic examination findings and provide reference values for ocular examinations and diagnostics in clinically normal Western tiger salamanders (Ambystoma mavortium) and to evaluate the mydriatic effect of a topical rocuronium bromide and identify any adverse effects.

Animals Studied

Sixteen Western tiger salamanders.

Procedure

A complete ophthalmic examination, including intraocular pressure via rebound tonometry [iCare® TonoVet (dog‐setting) or iCare® TonoVet Plus (dog‐setting)], and fluorescein and Rose Bengal stains, was performed. Ocular surface flora culture swabs were collected for microbiology in four salamanders. Rocuronium bromide (50 μL; 0.01 mg) was administered into each eye in three salamanders. Pupil size and constriction ability were evaluated up to 60 min following administration of rocuronium bromide. Distant visual examination and Doppler heart rate were used to monitor for potential adverse effects of rocuronium bromide.

Results

Observed ocular abnormalities included lipid keratopathy/keratitis (19%; 3/16), parasitic ophthalmitis (19%; 3/16), and cataracts (6.3%; 1/16). A significant difference was found between tonometry with iCare® TonoVet (11.5 ± 2.7 mmHg) versus TonoVet Plus (15.4 ± 3.7 mmHg) (p = .025). Fluorescein and Rose Bengal stains were negative in all salamanders. Ocular surface microbiology revealed a high incidence of contamination from environmental flora, with the most common isolate being unidentified as Gram‐negative nonfermenters (75%; 3/4). No significant change in pupil size or constriction ability was observed with rocuronium bromide.

Conclusion

This is the first study to document ocular examination findings and diagnostics in captive and wild urodeles and may serve as a reference for clinical assessment and future studies of the Western tiger salamander.
Development and Evaluation of Generic Test Pieces for Creep Property Assessment of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Components
Authors: Megahed Sandra , Krämer Karl Michael , Kontermann Christian , Heinze Christoph , Udoh Annett , Weihe Stefan , Oechsner Matthias
Published: April 2024

Metal laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M) allows for high degrees of design freedom and the manufacture of high-temperature Ni-based materials, such as IN738LC. The PBF-LB/M microstructure is dependent on several factors, including process parameters, component geometry, build orientation and postprocessing steps (e.g., heat treatment). The correlation between the resulting microstructure and these parameters is material specific and not yet fully understood. In this study, the development of a specimen extraction cube (SEC), based on a generic component with design aspects related to turbomachinery applications, is presented. The SEC allows for the extraction of three samples, one for each of the build orientations: 0 deg (perpendicular to build direction), 45 deg (diagonal) and 90 deg (parallel to build direction). Specimens extracted from the SEC are mechanically tested and compared to witness samples manufactured in 0 deg, 45 deg, and 90 deg build orientation. Particular focus is placed on correlating measured properties and their variations with heat treated microstructures. Creep testing was performed using 240 MPa and a temperature of 850 °C. Microstructural differences and hence differences in mechanical properties are found in extracted and witness samples.
Calendar Life Enhancement of Commercial Ultra-High-Rate LiFePO4/Graphite Batteries for Electromagnetic Launch
Authors: Long Xinlin , Liu Lang , Zeng Ziqing
Published: April 2024

Due to the advantages of ultra-high-power density, long cyclic life, and desirable safety, ultra-high-rate LiFePO4/graphite batteries (U-LIBs) are used as the energy storage system for electromagnetic launchers. However, the short calendar life of U-LIB limits its further application in the field of electromagnetic launch. In this study, the calendar life of commercial U-LIB is improved through the optimization design of anode materials and electrolytes. The calendar life is successfully improved without affecting the battery performances by appropriately increasing the particle size of graphite in the anode and properly reducing the proportion of dimethyl carbonate (DMC), which has low stability in the electrolyte. The average particle size of graphite is increased from 5 μm to 8 μm with a compaction density of 1.3 g cm−3 as the best option. The electrolyte formulation is optimized from 30% ethylene carbonate (EC), 60% DMC, and 10% ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) to 30% EC, 50% DMC, and 20% EMC. After comprehensive optimization, the calendar life of commercial U-LIB was significantly improved at different temperatures and states of charge (SOCs). For example, the 1-month-storage capacity retention of U-LIB increased from 96.9% to 98% under the temperature of 45 °C at 50% SOC (meaning 35.5% decrease on capacity loss), and increased from 98.2% to 98.8% under the temperature of 25 °C at 100% SOC (33.3% decrease on capacity loss).
Exercise With Unstable Objects: A Descriptive Survey Among Health Care and Fitness Professionals
Authors: Cheatham Scott W. , Baker Russell T. , Batts Wendy , Ambler-Wright Tony , Sutton Brian
Published: April 2024

Exercise with unstable objects is a popular intervention used by health care and fitness professionals. Understanding different professional beliefs and usage patterns might provide insight for future research and development of evidence-based guidelines. The purpose of this survey study was to document the perceptions, beliefs, and the use of exercise with unstable objects among health care and fitness professionals in the United States. Six hundred and sixteen respondents completed the survey. Most respondents used unstable objects for musculoskeletal postinjury fitness/return to performance (72%). Most believed the main therapeutic effects were enhanced motor control (88%), balance (86%), and somatosensory (85%) function. Most reported using the foam pad (80%) and BOSU (84%). The most used subjective measure was the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale. Most respondents used single limb stance (85%) to measure static motor control and the single leg squat assessment (51%) for dynamic motor control. Respondents used variables such as dynamic movement, repetition and sets, and time during training. Respondents considered recent injury or surgery and neurological or vestibular conditions as the top precautions. Respondents considered acute injury or surgery and neurological or vestibular conditions as the top contraindications. This survey provides insight into health care and fitness professionals perceptions, beliefs, and use of exercise with unstable objects.
Force–Time Characteristics of Repeated Bouts of Depth Jumps and the Effects of Compression Garments
Authors: Brown Freddy , Hill Matt , Renshaw Derek , Tallis Jason
Published: April 2024

No studies have reported ground reaction force (GRF) profiles of the repeated depth jump (DJ) protocols commonly used to study exercise-induced muscle damage. Furthermore, while compression garments (CG) may accelerate recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage, any effects on the repeated bout effect are unknown. Therefore, we investigated the GRF profiles of 2 repeated bouts of damage-inducing DJs and the effects of wearing CG for recovery. Nonresistance-trained males randomly received CG (n = 9) or placebo (n = 8) for 72 hours recovery, following 20 × 20 m sprints and 10 × 10 DJs from 0.6 m. Exercise was repeated after 14 days. Using a 3-way (set × bout × group) design, changes in GRF were assessed with analysis of variance and statistical parametric mapping. Jump height, reactive strength, peak, and mean propulsive forces declined between sets (P < .001). Vertical stiffness, contact time, force at zero velocity, and propulsive duration increased (P < .05). According to statistical parametric mapping, braking (17%–25% of the movement) and propulsive forces (58%–81%) declined (P < .05). During the repeated bout, peak propulsive force and duration increased (P < .05), while mean propulsive force (P < .05) and GRF from 59% to 73% declined (P < .001). A repeated bout of DJs differed in propulsive GRF, without changes to the eccentric phase, or effects from CG.
The Day-Level Association Between Child Care Attendance and 24-Hour Movement Behaviors in Preschool-Aged Children
Authors: Parker Hannah , Burkart Sarah , Reesor-Oyer Layton , von Klinggraeff Lauren , Pfledderer Christopher D. , Adams Elizabeth , Weaver Robert G. , Beets Michael W. , Armstrong Bridget
Published: April 2024

Background: Twenty-four hour movement behaviors (ie, physical activity [PA], screen time [ST], and sleep) are associated with children’s health outcomes. Identifying day-level contextual factors, such as child care, that positively influence children’s movement behaviors may help identify potential intervention targets, like improving access to child care programs. This study aimed to examine the between- and within-person effects of child care on preschoolers’ 24-hour movement behaviors. Methods: Children (N = 74, 4.7 [0.9] y, 48.9% girls, 63.3% White) wore an Axivity AX3 accelerometer on their nondominant wrist 24 hours per day for 14 days to measure PA and sleep. Parents completed surveys each night about their child’s ST and child care attendance that day. Linear mixed effects models predicted day-level 24-hour movement behaviors from hours spent in child care. Results: Children spent an average of 5.0 (2.9) hours per day in child care. For every additional hour of child care above their average, children had 0.3 hours (95% CI, −0.3 to −0.2) less ST that day. Between-person effects showed that compared with children who attended fewer overall hours of child care, children who attended more hours had less overall ST (B = −0.2 h; 95% CI, −0.4 to 0.0). Child care was not significantly associated with PA or sleep. Conclusions: Child care attendance was not associated with 24-hour PA or sleep; however, it was associated with less ST. More research utilizing objective measures of ST and more robust measures of daily schedules or structure is necessary to better understand how existing infrastructure may influence preschool-aged children’s 24-hour movement behaviors. In addition, future research should consider how access to child care may influence child care attendance.
Acute and Acclimated Effects of Wearing Compression Garments on Balance Control in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Hung You-jou , Couverette Frederick , Hamon Jeffrey , Willard Dustyn
Published: April 2024

Falls are very serious health concerns among older adults. Providing additional cutaneous and proprioceptive feedback to older adults may enhance their balance control and therefore reduce the incidents of falls. This study aimed to investigate the acute and acclimated effect of wearing waist-to-above-ankle compression garments (CGs) on balance control in community-dwelling older adults. Thirty-one older adults participated in the study. The Timed Up and Go, Berg Balance Scale, and the Fall Risk Test of the Biodex Balance System were used in a random order to examine balance control in three testing sessions 1 week apart. Results indicated wearing CGs had a significant impact on the Timed Up and Go test (p < .001), Berg Balance Scale (p = .001), and the Fall Risk Test (p = .001). For the Timed Up and Go test, participants exhibited significant improvement in both the acute (8.68 vs. 7.91 s) and acclimated effect (7.91 vs. 7.41 s) of wearing CGs. For the Berg Balance Scale, participants showed significant improvement after wearing CGs for 1 week in comparison to the no CGs condition (55.77 vs. 55.39 points). For the Fall Risk Test, participants showed a significant improvement in the acute effect of wearing CGs in comparison to the no CGs condition (1.55° vs. 1.31°). This exploratory study showed that wearing waist-to-above-ankle CGs provided a positive impact on balance control in healthy community-dwelling older adults. It lays the foundation for future studies with a larger sample size to investigate the potential benefits of wearing CGs in individuals with balance control deficits and/or other comorbidities.