bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The regulatory network and critical factors promoting programmed cell death during embryogenesis
Authors: Luo An , Shi Ce , Luo Pan , Zhao Zifu , Sun Meng‐Xiang
Published: November 2024

Programmed cell death (PCD) is essential for animal and plant development. However, the knowledge of the mechanism regulating PCD in plants remains limited, largely due to technical limitations. Previously, we determined that the protease NtCP14 could trigger PCD in the embryonic suspensor of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), providing a unique opportunity to overcome the limitations by creating synchronous two‐celled proembryos with ongoing PCD for transcriptome analysis and regulatory factor screening. Here, we performed comparative transcriptome analysis using isolated two‐celled proembryos and explored the potential regulatory network underlying NtCP14‐triggered PCD. Multiple phytohormones, calcium, microtubule organization, the immunity system, soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor proteins, long non‐coding RNAs and alternative splicing are addressed as critical factors involved in the early stage of suspensor PCD. Genes thought to play crucial roles in suspensor PCD are highlighted. Notably, decreased antioxidant gene expression and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels during suspensor PCD suggest a critical role for ROS signaling in the initiation of NtCP14‐triggered PCD. Furthermore, five genes in the regulatory network are recommended as immediate downstream elements of NtCP14. Together, our analysis outlines an overall molecular network underlying protease‐triggered PCD and provides a reliable database and valuable clues for targeting elements immediately downstream of NtCP14 to overcome technical bottlenecks and gain deep insight into the molecular mechanism regulating plant PCD.
An examination of the link between interest incongruence and employee cyberloafing from an ego depletion perspective
Authors: Weng Qingxiong , Chen Lixin , Popelnukha Anastasiia , Wang Xiujuan
Published: November 2024

Since cyberloafing has become prevalent across organizations, scholars have increasingly focused on exploring its antecedents. Based on ego depletion theory, we explore how and when interest incongruence, a particular type of person‐environment misfit, influences employee cyberloafing behaviours. Using three‐wave survey data of a sample from 443 Chinese employees, we found that interest incongruence is associated with ego depletion, leading to employee cyberloafing. Furthermore, our results demonstrated the moderating roles of trait self‐control and moral identity internalization in the interest incongruence‐ego depletion‐cyberloafing link at different stages. Specifically, trait self‐control mitigated the effect of interest incongruence on ego depletion and the indirect effect of interest incongruence on cyberloafing via ego depletion. Moral identity internalization mitigated the effect of ego depletion on cyberloafing and the indirect effect of interest incongruence on cyberloafing via ego depletion. These findings suggest that employee cyberloafing is not only an immoral issue but also a behaviour affected by employees' self‐regulatory resources.
Thematic Layers of Genomic Susceptibility for Conservation Monitoring
Authors: Black Andrew N. , Jeon Jong Yoon , Mularo Andrew J. , Allen Natalie M. , Heenkenda Erangi , Buchanan‐Schwanke Julia C. , Bickham John W. , Lowe Zachary E. , DeWoody J. Andrew
Published: November 2024

Population genomics has great potential to inform applied conservation management and associated policy. However, the bioinformatic analyses and interpretation of population genomic datasets can be daunting and difficult to convey to nonspecialists, including on‐the‐ground conservationists that work with many state, federal and international agencies. We think that individual population genomic metrics of interest can be interpolated and ultimately distilled into thematic GIS layers that represent spatiotemporal genomic potential (or conversely, susceptibility) in conservation monitoring. As examples relevant to ongoing conservation efforts, we use introgressive hybridisation and individual heterozygosity to illustrate a conceptual approach for mapping population genomic susceptibility. The general framework of thematic layers could be extended to integrate key genomic metrics (e.g., runs of homozygosity and genomic load) that are relevant to many conservation efforts.
Paradoxes of infinite aggregation
Authors: Hong Frank , Russell Jeffrey Sanford
Published: November 2024

There are infinitely many ways the world might be, and there may well be infinitely many people in it. These facts raise moral paradoxes. We explore a conflict between two highly attractive principles: a Pareto principle that says that what is better for everyone is better overall, and a statewise dominance principle that says that what is sure to turn out better is better on balance. We refine and generalize this paradox, showing that the problem is faced by many theories of interpersonal aggregation besides utilitarianism, and by many decision theories besides expected value theory. Considering the range of consistent responses, we find all of them to be quite radical.
Exploring Stable Low Soil Phosphorous Stress Tolerance in Rice Using Novel Allele Recombination From Oryza rufipogon
Authors: Magudeeswari P. , Balakrishnan Divya , Surapaneni Malathi , Krishnam Raju A. , Rao Yadavalli Venkat , Pranay G. , Valarmathi P. , Bhadana Vijai Pal , Neelamraju Sarla , Sundaram Raman Meenakshi
Published: November 2024

Advent of changing climatic conditions along with nutrient deficient soils adversely affects the environment for the rice production. Wild introgression lines derived from KMR3 and Oryza rufipogon population were evaluated in six environments, including optimum and low phosphorus stress condition. Significant differences among the introgression lines were observed for plant height, tiller number, biomass, grain yield per plant, days to 50% flowering and harvest index across the environments. Based on grain yield observed under optimum phosphorus and limited phosphorus (P stress condition), eight stress tolerance indices were calculated and found STI and GMP are the better indices to discriminate among tolerant and susceptible genotypes, and correlation studies also confirmed the significant association between STI and GMP. Cluster analysis based on stress tolerance indices revealed three different clusters distinguishing genotypes based on their stable performance on yield related traits. AMMI and GGE biplot analysis to identify the stable performance across environments revealed NSR60, NSR101, NSR105, NSR85 and NSR86 as high grain yielders, whereas NSR135, NSR5 and NSR88 as stable performers. WAASBY‐based stability analysis on multiple traits (MTSI) showed NSR135, NSR79 and NSR18 with lowest MTSI, indicating their high stability and high mean performance compared with parent KMR3. Further genotyping for low P tolerance gene (PSTOL1) and grain yield genes (Gn1a, SPIKE, TGW6, DEP1 and OsSPL14) using allele specific markers showed that the desirable alleles of SPIKE, Gn1a and TGW6 were derived from wild parent O. rufipogon. Low P tolerance allele PSTOL1 was absent in recurrent parent KMR3; however, the introgression lines harboured desirable alleles, which were derived from O. rufipogon. Further mapping studies will help to identify a significant potential QTLs/gene for low P tolerance from O. rufipogon. Wild introgression lines, NSR85, NSR124, NSR80, NSR54, NSR86 and NSR88, were found as the high yielding and nutrient stress tolerant genotypes, which can be used as potential donors in future breeding programmes for low P stress tolerance.
The odds are it's wrong: Correcting a common mistake in statistics
Authors: Voas David , Watt Laura
Published: November 2024

Binary logistic regression is one of the most widely used statistical tools. The method uses odds, log odds, and odds ratios, which are difficult to understand and interpret. Understanding of logistic regression tends to fall down in one of three ways: (1) Many students and researchers come to believe that an odds ratio translates directly into relative probabilities. (2) Alternatively, they learn that coefficients tell us whether the variables make the outcome more or less likely, without knowing how to interpret changes in the odds. (3) They may be instructed in how to calculate predicted probabilities, but the additional steps are too complicated for them to follow. Our key aim is to highlight and correct the common mistake of confusing differences in odds with relative risks. Simply reporting the odds ratio is unhelpful, however, so we describe an easy method of estimating probabilities for both binary and continuous variables.
Ball Don't Lie: Commentary on Chemero (2024) and Wallot et al. (2024)
Authors: Kelty‐Stephen Damian G. , Mangalam Madhur
Published: November 2024

The interaction‐dominant approach to perception and action, originally formulated in the mid‐1990s, has matured and gained remarkable momentum as an entailment of the dynamical hypotheses proposed at that time. This framework seeks to explain the fluid and intricate interplay of causality spanning the entire organism by integrating high‐dimensional details with low‐dimensional constraints across various scales of behavior. Both Chemero (2024) and Wallot et al. (2024) have skillfully explored the theoretical implications and methodological challenges this perspective introduces. We echo Chemero's (2024) and Wallot et al.’s (2024) focus on multifractality, while also underscoring new efforts to model the synergetic relationships and cascading dynamics inherent in this interaction‐dominant approach.
Comparative specialization of intrinsic cardiac neurons in humans, mice and pigs
Authors: Tompkins John D. , Hoover Donald B. , Havton Leif A. , Patel Janaki C. , Cho Youngjin , Smith Elizabeth H. , Biscola Natalia P. , Ajijola Olujimi A. , Shivkumar Kalyanam , Ardell Jeffrey L.
Published: November 2024

Intrinsic cardiac neurons (ICNs) play a crucial role in the proper functioning of the heart; yet a paucity of data pertaining to human ICNs exist. We took a multidisciplinary approach to complete a detailed cellular comparison of the structure and function of ICNs from mice, pigs and humans. Immunohistochemistry of whole and sectioned ganglia, transmission electron microscopy, intracellular microelectrode recording and dye filling for quantitative morphometry were used to define the neurophysiology, histochemistry and ultrastructure of these neurons across species. The densely packed, smaller ICNs of mouse lacked dendrites, formed axosomatic connections and had high synaptic efficacy constituting an obligatory synapse. At pig ICNs, a convergence of subthreshold cholinergic inputs onto extensive dendritic arbors supported greater summation and integration of synaptic input. Human ICNs were tonically firing, with synaptic stimulation evoking large suprathreshold EPSPs like mouse, and subthreshold potentials like pig. Ultrastructural examination of synaptic terminals revealed conserved architecture, yet small clear vesicles were larger in pigs and humans. The presence and localization of ganglionic neuropeptides was distinct, with abundant vasoactive intestinal polypeptide observed in human but not pig or mouse ganglia, and little substance P or calcitonin gene‐related peptide in pig ganglia. Action potential waveforms were similar, but human ICNs had larger after‐hyperpolarizations. Intrinsic excitability differed; 95% of human neurons were tonic, all pig neurons were phasic, and both phasic and tonic phenotypes were observed in mouse. In combination, this publicly accessible, multimodal atlas of ICNs from mice, pigs and humans identifies similarities and differences in the evolution of ICNs.

image

Key points

Intrinsic cardiac neurons (ICNs) are essential to the regulation of cardiac function.

We investigated the neurochemistry, morphology, ultrastructure, membrane physiology and synaptic transmission of ICNs from donated human hearts in parallel with identical studies of ICNs from mice and pigs to create a publicly accessible cellular atlas detailing the structure and function of these neurons across species.

In addition to presenting foundational data on human ICNs, this comparative study identifies both conserved and derived attributes of these neurons within mammals.

The findings have significant implications for understanding the regulation of cardiac autonomic function in humans and may greatly influence strategies for neuromodulation in conditions such as atrial fibrillation and heart failure.
An integrated anthracnose management approach in Tommy Atkins mango cultivars in Cundinamarca - Colombia
Authors: Hio Juan Climaco , Martínez Lemus Erika Patricia , Rojas Zambrano Emerson Duvan , Osorio Cardona Jairo Antonio , Cruz Castiblanco Ginna Natalia , Bustos Rodríguez Henry Alexander
Published: November 2024

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in mango production, can lead to crop losses of 60 %. Synthetic fungicides constitute its leading management strategy. We evaluated combinations of different management practices to control anthracnose in a commercial Tommy Atkins mango grove in 2015 and 2016. We followed a randomized complete block experimental design with a subdivided plot arrangement composed of 12 treatments, three replicates per treatment, and one mango tree per replicate for 36 trees. Pruning was practiced at plot level (with and without pruning), nutrients were applied to subplots (soil fertilizer, foliar nutrient application, and no nutrient supply), and at sub-subplot level, three anthracnose management treatments were given (chemical, biological, and no treatment). In 2015 and 2016, the treatments involving natural or biological applications against anthracnose plus nutrient supply led to the most significant reductions in quiescent leaf infections and disease presence in flowers and fruits. In addition, pruning at specific crop development stages improved results. In light of our results, this integrated anthracnose management approach in mango production can deliver the expected results if implemented consistently.
Comparison of Al- and Hf-based hybrid photoresists grown by molecular layer deposition for extreme ultraviolet lithography
Authors: Ravi Ajay , Than Long Viet , Lewis Jacqueline , Shi Jingwei , Werbrouck Andreas , Han Jingyi , Mattinen Miika , Bent Stacey F.
Published: November 2024

The continued downscaling of electronic device dimensions requires the development of high-performance resist materials for advanced lithographic patterning. In this study, we examine Al-based hybrid “alucone” thin films grown by molecular layer deposition (MLD) for application to extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography and compare their resist properties with those of previously studied Hf-based MLD hybrid “hafnicone.” Both alucone films presented here—standard alucone and oxygen-rich alucone—are deposited using the precursors trimethylaluminum and ethylene glycol. Using electron-beam lithography as a proxy for EUV, we demonstrate that alucone behaves as a negative-tone resist capable of resolving line widths down to ∼20 nm. It is found that the sensitivity of oxygen-rich alucone is 4800 μC/cm2 using 0.125M HCl as the developer, whereas standard alucone is somewhat less sensitive. The resolution of alucone is higher than that of hafnicone, although the sensitivity is poorer. By performing x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, we investigate the degradation mechanism of standard alucone and compare this mechanism to that of hafnicone. We rationalize the observed differences in resist behavior between hafnicone and alucone by considering the oxophilicity of the metal atom in the respective thin films. This study provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between MLD film chemistry and irradiation responsiveness, which can help advance the optimization of resist materials for microelectronics fabrication.
Effects of Caffeine Ingestion on Pulmonary V˙O2 Kinetics and Muscle Fatigue During Severe-Intensity Cycling Exercise
Authors: Estrela Rafael Leal Dantas , dos Santos Jean de Souza , Salvador Paulo Cesar do Nascimento , Ventura Thiago Pereira , Oneda Gustavo , de Lucas Ricardo Dantas , Turnes Tiago , Guglielmo Luiz Guilherme Antonacci
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to analyze the effect of caffeine (CAF) intake on pulmonary oxygen uptake () kinetics, muscle fatigue, and physiological and perceptual parameters during severe-intensity cycling exercise. Methods: Twelve physically active men (age: 26 ± 5 years; : 46.7 ± 7.8 ml·kg−1·min−1) participated of this placebo (PLA)-controlled, randomized, double-blinded, and crossover design study. Participants performed on separate days (a) a ramp incremental test to determine and gas exchange threshold and (b) four 8-min constant work rate tests at 60% of the difference between gas exchange threshold and maximal (i.e., Δ60%) 1 hr after taking either 6 mg/kg of body mass of CAF or PLA. Before and immediately after constant work rate tests, a 5-s all-out isokinetic sprint was performed to assess the muscle torque. kinetics, blood lactate concentration ([La]), and rating of perceived exertion were analyzed during constant work rate tests. Results: CAF did not alter the primary time constant of kinetics (PLA: 38.3 ± 14; CAF: 36.7 ± 7.5 s), slow component (PLA: 0.5 ± 0.2; CAF: 0.5 ± 0.2 L/min), or peak torque (PLA: 144.6 ± 18.6; CAF: 143.9 ± 18.7 N·m). CAF decreased rating of perceived exertion (15.9 ± 1.8 vs. 17.0 ± 1.5 a.u.) and increased blood lactate concentration (9.0 ± 2.5 vs. 8.3 ± 2.2 mmol/L; p < .05) after constant work rate tests compared with PLA. Conclusion: CAF ingestion does not alter kinetics or muscle torque production during 8 min of severe-intensity cycling exercise.
Ross Ice Shelf frontal zone subjected to increasing melting by ocean surface waters
Authors: Sheehan Peter M. F. , Heywood Karen J.
Published: November 2024

Solar-warmed surface waters subduct beneath Antarctica’s ice shelves as a result of wind forcing, but this process is poorly observed and its interannual variability is yet to be assessed. We observe a 50-meter-thick intrusion of warm surface water immediately beneath the Ross Ice Shelf. Temperature in the uppermost 5 meters decreases toward the ice base in near-perfect agreement with an exponential fit, consistent with the loss of heat to the overlying ice. Ekman forcing drives a heat transport into the cavity sufficient to contribute considerably to near-front melting; this transport has increased over the past four decades, driven by the increasing heat content of the ice-front polynya. Interannual variability of the heat transport is driven by zonal wind stress. These results provide a benchmark against which model performance may be assessed as we seek to reduce uncertainty around the contribution of basal melting to sea level rise.
Dual function of overexpressing plasma membrane H
+
-ATPase in balancing carbon-water use
Authors: Jiang Hangjin , Su Jinghan , Ren Zirong , Wang Dexian , Hills Adrian , Kinoshita Toshinori , Blatt Michael R. , Wang Yin , Wang Yizhou
Published: November 2024

Stomata respond slowly to changes in light when compared with photosynthesis, undermining plant water-use efficiency (WUE). We know much about stomatal mechanics, yet efforts to accelerate stomatal responsiveness have been limited despite the breadth of potential targets for manipulation. Here, we use mechanistic modeling to establish a hierarchy of putative targets affecting stomatal kinetics. Counterintuitively, modeling predicted that overexpressing plasma membrane H
+
-ATPases could speed stomata and enhance WUE under fluctuating light, even though overexpressed H
+
-ATPases is known to promote stomatal opening and reduce WUE in the steady state. Experiments validated the prediction, implicating an unexpected role of the H
+
-ATPases in improving WUE under fluctuating light. It suggests that H
+
-ATPases have a dual function, acting as a facilitator of carbon assimilation and water use, depending on the light conditions. These findings highlight the importance of integrating in silico modeling with experiments in future efforts toward enhancing stomatal function.
Contemporary small-scale subsistence populations offer unique insights into human musculoskeletal health and aging
Authors: Stieglitz Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Human foragers avoid noncommunicable diseases that are leading causes of mortality, partly because physically active lifestyles promote healthy aging. High activity levels also promote tissue damage accumulation from wear-and-tear, increase risk of injury and disability which compromise productivity, and reduce energetic investments in somatic maintenance given constrained energy expenditure. Constraints intensify when nutrient supply is limited and surplus energy is directed toward pathogen defense and reproduction, as occurred throughout hominin evolution. This paper reviews evidence linking exposomes to musculoskeletal health in subsistence populations, focusing on effects of physical activity, pathogens, diet, and reproduction. Chronic musculoskeletal conditions are common for humans and possibly prehistoric hominins but rarer in quadrupedal apes. We propose that transition to bipedalism ~6 to 8 million years ago constituted an early “mismatch scenario," increasing hominin susceptibility to musculoskeletal conditions vis-à-vis quadrupedal apes due to changes in mechanical loading environments. Mismatched musculoskeletal traits were not targets of selection because of trade-offs favoring bipedal extractive foraging and higher fertility.
A coronaviral pore-replicase complex links RNA synthesis and export from double-membrane vesicles
Authors: Chen Anan , Lupan Ana-Mihaela , Quek Rui Tong , Stanciu Stefan G. , Asaftei Mihaela , Stanciu George A. , Hardy Kierra S. , de Almeida Magalhães Taciani , Silver Pamela A. , Mitchison Timothy J. , Salic Adrian
Published: November 2024

Coronavirus-infected cells contain double-membrane vesicles (DMVs) that are key for viral RNA replication and transcription, perforated by hexameric pores connecting the vesicular lumen to the cytoplasm. How pores form and traverse two membranes, and how DMVs organize RNA synthesis, is unknown. Using structure prediction and functional assays, we show that the nonstructural viral membrane protein nsp4 is the key pore organizer, spanning the double membrane and forming most of the pore lining. Nsp4 interacts with nsp3 on the cytoplasmic side and with the viral replicase inside the DMV. Newly synthesized mRNAs exit the DMV into the cytoplasm, passing through a narrow ring of conserved nsp4 residues. Steric constraints imposed by the ring predict that modified nucleobases block mRNA transit, resulting in broad-spectrum anticoronaviral activity.
Long noncoding RNA
DREAMer
bridges the DREAM complex and E2f1 to regulate endoreplication in
Drosophila
Authors: Li Dong , Jin Tianyu , Liu Jun , Lu Chunlin , Yang Xianmei , Zhang Haiyan , Bi Limin , Yan Yuhang , Zhang Lijiao , Sang Yan , Jin Bilian , Bi Xiaolin
Published: November 2024

Rb/E2f and DREAM complexes play vital roles in regulating cell cycle progression. To date, how they coordinate their functions to regulate cell cycle–dependent gene expression is not clear. Here, we identified a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), which we named
DREAMer
, that bridges the interaction between E2f1 and the dREAM complex to regulate endoreplication specifically in
Drosophila
salivary gland. We show that E2f1 directly stimulates
DREAMer
expression, whereas
DREAMer
mediates the repression of
e2f1
transcription by modulating the recruitment of the dREAM complex to the
e2f1
promoter via a direct interaction with the dREAM component E2f2. The depletion of
DREAMer
impairs dREAM binding, leading to derepression of
e2f1
transcription, which ultimately increases E2f1 activity and promotes the endoreplication. Furthermore, the transcriptomic analysis revealed profound changes in cell cycle–related gene expression in

DREAMer
KO

salivary glands. Together, our findings reveal an lncRNA-mediated link between the dREAM complex and E2f1, which regulates endoreplication during development.
Harnessing coupled nanolasers near exceptional points for directional emission
Authors: Madiot Guilhem , Chateiller Quentin , Bazin Alexandre , Loren Patricia , Pantzas Konstantinos , Beaudoin Grégoire , Sagnes Isabelle , Raineri Fabrice
Published: November 2024

Tailoring the losses of optical systems within the frame of non-Hermitian physics has appeared very fruitful in the past few years. In particular, the description of exceptional points (EPs) with coupled resonators has become widespread. The on-chip realization of these functionalities is crucial for integrated nanophotonics but requires fine control techniques of the nanodevice properties. Here, we demonstrate pump-controlled directional emission of two coupled nanolasers that distantly interact via an integrated waveguide. This coupling scheme unusually enables both frequency and loss couplings between two cavities, which can be advantageously exploited to reach EPs by either detuning the cavities or controlling the gain of nanolasers. The system can be readily reconfigured from bidirectional to unidirectional emission by adjusting the pump power.
Complexity of the Oligocene meridional motion of the Philippine Sea Plate
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Qingsong , Hu Jiashun , Yang Ting , Gai Congcong , Zhou Yang , Zhang Weijie
Published: November 2024

The kinematic reconstruction of the Philippine Sea Plate (PSP) holds significant importance in elucidating the Australia–SE Asia collision and the Pacific Plate subduction. Previous studies suggested an overall northward motion of the PSP since its inception, but this first-order kinematic model cannot account for the observed inconsistencies in the northward drift distances among certain sites. Here, we conducted high-resolution Oligocene magnetostratigraphic and paleomagnetic research from Deep Sea Drilling Project (DSDP) Site 445, showing that the paleolatitudes of Site 445 were 11.9° ± 1.9° (29.2 Ma), 9.1° ± 3.7° (27.4 Ma), 8.8° ± 2.6° (25.6 Ma), 13.5° ± 2.8° (24.6 Ma), and 15.0° ± 2.5° (23.3 Ma). These results indicate that the PSP exhibited a detectable southward-moving trend during the 29–25 Ma period, followed by a northward motion after 25 Ma. The new finding challenges the previously held belief that the PSP consistently migrated northward. This phenomenon can be attributed to the rollback of the subducted slab south of the PSP prior to 25 Ma and a subsequent collision between the Australian Plate and the PSP after that. The tectonic reorganization around 25 Ma can also be identified in the Pacific Plate and the convergence between the Indian and Asian Plates. Therefore, this event bears great significance in deepening our understanding of the global plate evolution.
Infliximab monotherapy for ulcerative colitis-related severe enteritis following colectomy in a paediatric patient
Authors: Sathiaseelan Mohana , Chiu Kei Yu , Lim Alicia , Ravikumara Madhur
Published: November 2024

We report the rare entity of ulcerative colitis-related severe enteritis (UCRSE) following colectomy in a child. This entity has been described primarily in adults and is characterised by diffuse enteritis with histology identical to ulcerative colitis (UC). The mainstay treatment is steroids and in recent years anti-tumour necrosis factor agents.

A boy in early adolescence required urgent colectomy for medically refractory severe acute colitis. Colectomy specimen histology confirmed UC. Postoperatively, he developed fevers, severe abdominal pain and excessive stoma output (5 L/day). Endoscopy revealed severe extensive enteritis, histologically resembling UC. Infliximab (IFX) was commenced with significant improvement. He remains asymptomatic 28 months post-colectomy on maintenance IFX monotherapy. To our knowledge, this is the youngest patient with this complication.

This case illustrates the need to consider UCRSE in a child with otherwise unexplained fever, severe abdominal pain and high stoma output post colectomy. IFX monotherapy is a successful treatment option.
Littre’s hernia in children
Authors: Sahu Avilash , Naik Deepti , Chinthala Srikanth , Mahalik Santosh Kumar
Published: November 2024

Meckel’s diverticulum is a common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal (GI) system, which remains asymptomatic unless some complications occur. Littre’s hernia is a rare complication of Meckel’s diverticulum, where it herniates into the hernial sac. It is difficult to diagnose this condition preoperatively. Strangulation and incarceration are common, which may lead to necrosis and perforation of Meckel’s diverticulum. In this report, we describe the successful management of a boy in his early childhood presenting with an irreducible and strangulated right inguinal hernia, which turned out to be Littre’s hernia on exploration. Additionally, we conducted a literature review using Google Scholar and PubMed to identify publications on Littre’s hernia in paediatric patients.
Appendicitis as first presentation of aggressive granulomatosis with polyangiitis and diffuse alveolar haemorrhage
Authors: de Noronha Moreira Hugo Miguel , Moniz Patricia , Mendes Vitor , Póvoa Pedro
Published: November 2024

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) can be associated with a wide multiplicity of causes, including diffuse alveolar haemorrhage (DAH). Vasculitis associated with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA), particularly granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), is one of the most common causes of DAH, primarily affecting small and medium-sized vessels in the lungs and kidneys. Diagnosing GPA can be challenging, and it should be considered a potential cause of DAH, even in the absence of other organ involvement. Given the high mortality associated with this condition, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are crucial for improving outcomes. We present the case of a young patient with severe ARDS who did not show significant alveolar haemorrhage on bronchoscopy or renal involvement but exhibited extensive gastrointestinal involvement and had a predominant laboratory diagnosis of positive cytoplasmic anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody and proteinase 3 antibodies.
Behavioural intentions towards use of digital video consultations in primary care: a survey study on physicians’, nurses’ and psychologists’ perceptions in Swedish primary care
Authors: Maack Karl , Karlsson Fredric , Gillberg Nanna , Wikström Ewa , Pikkemaat Miriam , Milos Nymberg Veronica
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to describe the experiences of physicians, nurses and psychologists employed in primary care in using digital video consultations. The second objective was to study the association between the predictors of behaviour and behavioural intentions to use digital consultations and to relate underlying behavioural beliefs to experiences of digital consultations in primary care. Overall, the research questions focused on the association between previous training, profession or theory-based behavioural predictors and behavioural intentions to use digital video consultations.

Design

A web survey based on the theory of planned behaviour was sent to primary care professionals in western Sweden who had implemented digital video consultations. The questionnaire contained both closed and open-ended questions focusing on theory-based predictors of behavioural intentions, such as as attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. Data were analysed with a mixed-methods approach using quantitative and qualitative analyses.

Participants

The questionnaire was distributed between June and October 2022 to 140 primary healthcare centres in western Sweden, of which 47 agreed to participate. Overall, the questionnaire was sent out to 969 clinicians, representing physicians, nurses and psychologists.

Results

Physicians and nurses had lower experience and less positive attitudes towards digital video consultations compared with psychologists. No statistically significant differences were seen among the groups in behavioural intentions to use digital video consultations. The regression analysis showed that attitude was the strongest predictor of behavioural intentions among primary care physicians, while attitude and perceived behavioural control were associated with behavioural intentions among nurses. No associations between predictors and intentions were found among psychologists.

Conclusions

The medical professionals reported high behavioural intentions to use digital video consultation despite different levels of experience. Attitude and perceived behavioural control were predictors of behavioural intentions among physicians and nurses, indicating that future implementation should consider the professions’ participation in the process.
Protocol for an ambidirectional cohort study on long COVID and the healthcare needs, use and barriers to access health services in a large city in Southeast Brazil
Authors: Portela Margareth Crisóstomo , de Vasconcellos Maurício Teixeira Leite , Lima Sheyla Maria Lemos , Caldas Bárbara do Nascimento , Martins Mônica , de Andrade Carla Lourenço Tavares , Amaral Thatiana Lameira Maciel , Amaral Cledir de Araújo , Bernardino Michelle , Soares Letícia , Stelson Elisabeth , Aveling Emma-Louise , Rosenthal Meredith B
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Post-COVID-19 condition, or syndrome, also known as long COVID, is an infection-associated chronic condition that can develop after a SARS-CoV-2 infection and last at least 3 months to years. Despite representing a high burden for the Unified Health System (SUS), which has affected millions of Brazilians, it has received limited attention in Brazil. Prevalence studies to date have failed to include a broad representation of the population, and there has been insufficient exploration of the impact on people’s lives and the burden of and barriers to accessing health services. This article presents the research protocol for the quantitative component of a mixed methods project to produce evidence to inform SUS’s provision of care for long COVID. The protocol was designed to study long COVID in SUS patients hospitalised for COVID-19 in a large city in Southeast Brazil to capture symptoms and factors associated with the syndrome, effects on quality of life and employment, health needs, use of health services and barriers to accessing necessary healthcare.

Methods and analysis

An ambidirectional cohort study to capture data retrospectively and prospectively from adults previously discharged from SUS hospitals for COVID-19. The study involves up to two telephone surveys with the patients or proxies selected from a sampling plan for population estimates. Survey questions include baseline and follow-up data on demographic, socioeconomic, comorbidities, work status, health-related quality of life, vaccination status, long COVID symptoms, healthcare needs, use and barriers to access. Descriptive and appropriate multivariable analyses will be employed.

Ethics and dissemination

The project was approved by the Research Ethics Committees of participant institutions and by the Brazilian National Research Ethics Commission. All participants provided verbal consent. We plan to publish articles in scientific journals and multimedia resources for SUS professionals and the general population.
Gynaecologic oncology referrals to specialist palliative care in a tertiary referral centre: population, characteristics and outcomes
Authors: Goodings Anthony James , Kajitani Sten , Pastrak Mila , Cunningham Elaine , O'Brien Hannah , Weadick Catherine , Dennehy Karie
Published: November 2024

Background

The early integration of a specialist palliative care team is demonstrated to have numerous benefits for patients. These extend beyond end-of-life care to include reducing depressive symptoms, improving quality of life and reducing unnecessary interventions.

Aims

This study aims to characterise the patient population referred to the specialist palliative care service with a diagnosis of gynaecological cancer. It also assesses referral frequency and response time in order to understand palliative care utilisation in an acute hospital setting.

Methods

A retrospective chart review and database analysis were performed to extract data on demographics, cancer diagnoses and referral reasons for patients referred to the specialist palliative care service over 3 years. The study focuses on identifying patterns in the characteristics of the referred patient population.

Results

Analysis of 162 patients revealed a distribution across cancer subtypes: 62% ovarian, 22% endometrial, 12% cervical and 4% vulvar. A notable finding was that the outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer were more likely to be discharged home with or without community care (62%) compared with those with endometrial cancer (41%). A rapid response to referrals was observed, with 70% reviewed within 3 days and 98% within a week. This highlights the service’s efficiency and the demographic and diagnostic profile of the patient served.

Conclusions

This study gives insight into the demographic and diagnostic profiles of patients with gynaecological cancer referred for palliative care, alongside demonstrating rapid response to such referrals. Despite the rapid assessment times, the research importantly identifies differences in outcomes among different cancer subtypes, with a particular emphasis on the variance in discharge destinations. These findings reflect both patient preferences and medical needs, demonstrating the role of tailoring palliative care approaches to meet the individual needs and desires of this diverse patient population.
The effect of temperature and humidity index on egg-laying and hatching parameters in Japanese quail
Authors: Çiftci H.B.
Published: November 2024

The objective was to measure the effect of temperature–humidity index (THI) on egg-laying and hatching parameters. Quails were randomly transferred to two cage blocks at 20.55 ± 0.05 °C and 52.25 ± 0.68% relative humidity (RH), accepted as 66 THI group. One cage block was transferred to the next room at 16.15 ± 0.13 °C and 70.77 ± 0.38% RH considered as 61 THI group. In the second stage of the study, the cage block previously accepted as 61 THI group was considered as to 69 THI group by rising up the temperature to 21.97 ± 0.18 °C. The group previously considered as 66 THI group was accepted as 76 THI group by rising up the temperature to 28.06 ± 0.02 °C. Feed consumption and egg weight were significantly decreased, in 69 and 76 THI groups. Daily egg production was lower in 61 and 66 THI groups than that in 69 THI group. In 76 THI group, shell weight and yolk height were decreased. High THI caused negative effects on feed consumption, egg weight, egg quality, and feed conversion ratio.
Thermal false vacuum decay in (1+1) dimensions: Evidence for nonequilibrium dynamics
Authors: Pîrvu Dalila , Shkerin Andrey , Sibiryakov Sergey
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we numerically study the evolution of a classical real scalar field in [Formula: see text] dimensions with initial conditions describing thermal fluctuations around a metastable vacuum. We track false vacuum decay in real time and compare several observables to the predictions of the standard Euclidean formalism. We find agreement for the shape of the critical bubble and the exponential suppression of the decay rate. However, the decay rate prefactor is almost an order of magnitude lower than the predicted value. We argue that this signals a breakdown of thermal equilibrium during the bubble nucleation. In addition, the inefficient thermalization in the system biases the properties of the statistical ensemble and leads to further decrease of the decay rate with time. We substantiate our interpretation with a suite of stochastic field simulations with controlled thermalization time. By varying this time, we find that the predictions of the standard equilibrium formalism are recovered when it is sufficiently short. We propose an upper bound on the thermalization time that must be satisfied in order to ensure the applicability of the Euclidean rate calculation. We discuss that this bound is unavoidably violated in common single-field models, irrespective of the number of space–time dimensions, implying that deviations from equilibrium in these models cannot be neglected. In theories with multiple fields, the bound may or may not hold, depending on the setup details. We investigate one more signature of nonequilibrium dynamics — coherent oscillonic precursors to the critical bubble nucleation. We show that they get suppressed in the stochastic dynamical simulations when the thermalization time is reduced.
K27 as a symmetry of closed bosonic strings and branes
Authors: Glennon K. , West P.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we show that the dynamics encoded in the nonlinear realization of the semi-direct product of the very extended algebra [Formula: see text] with its vector representation contains the low-energy effective action of the closed bosonic string.
Transient Response of MDOF Nonlinear Dynamical System Under Stationary Random Excitation
Authors: Wang Jia-Chen , Guo Siu-Siu , Shi Qingxuan
Published: November 2024

Engineering structures under external loadings are generally modeled as multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) nonlinear dynamical systems under random excitations. Based on the response Markov assumption, MDOF dynamical system with [Formula: see text]-dimensional state variables generally results in high-dimensional Fokker–Planck (FP) equation with [Formula: see text] spatial dimensions and one time dimension. It has been challenging to solve high-dimensional FP equation, especially the one with time dimension. In this paper, the previously proposed technique state-space-split-exponential-polynomial closure (SSS-EPC) method is further generalized to consider probability density evolution process and applied for time-dependent FP equation. In the proposed solution procedure, after spatial dimensionality reduction treatment of high-dimensional FP equation, the approximate solution is generalized as a time-dependent function with only interested state variables. The herein developed generalization and enhancement make the objective of determining time-dependent non-stationary response PDF available. Meanwhile, Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) is conducted to validate the proposed solution procedure. Three examples of ten-degree-of-freedom and eight-degree-of-freedom MDOF nonlinear systems under random external and/or parametric excitations are investigated. It is found that the obtained results agree well with the simulated ones at both the transient and the stationary stages. Moreover, the computation time taken by the proposed procedure is only a fraction of the one taken by the simulated method.
Hemodynamic Alterations in Cardiac Function Among Patients With Stroke and SARS‐CoV‐2 Infection: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhou Mingchao , Zha Fubing , Zhao Liuyang , Li Dongxia , Luo Jiao , Wang Yao , Liu Fang , Zhou Jing , Zhang Zeyu , Zou Yucong , Xiong Feng , Hou Dianrui , Li Fei , He Mingjun , Zhu Yongjie , Wang Yulong
Published: November 2024

Objective: Cardiovascular complications associated with COVID‐19 are being increasingly recognized. They include potential long‐term effects on the heart, although how these complications manifest in patients with stroke who are already vulnerable to cardiovascular issues is lacking. This study addressed this gap by investigating the influence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on cardiac hemodynamic changes in inpatients with stroke, thereby providing valuable insights into the management of cardiac complications in this population.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study enrolled inpatients with stroke who did or did not experience SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital. Clinical information, hemodynamics data, serum myocardial enzyme levels, functional levels, including Barthel index, and Longshi scale assessment (bedridden, domestic, and community) were extracted from clinical records. An independent sample t‐test and the Mann–Whitney U test were used for comparison between groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify indicators associated with decline in cardiac function in patients with stroke post‐COVID‐19.

Results: Eighty‐three patients with stroke (average age of 66.0 ± 15.5 years) were recruited (42 patients in the study group and 41 in the control group). No significant difference in general characteristics was observed between the groups. The ejection fraction (EF, 56.45 ± 12.46 vs. 47.64 ± 14.76, p = 0.04) was decreased, and the end‐diastolic volume (EDV, 142.74 ± 80.00 vs. 193.34 ± 140.17, p = 0.001) was increased significantly in patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 compared with the noninfected participants. SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was an independent risk factor for EF (−10%) decrease (OR: 5.205, 95% CI: 1.621–16.720, p = 0.006). The risk of cardiac function decline among bedridden infected patients was 15.43 times higher than that of uninfected nonbedridden patients (OR: 15.430, 95% CI: 1.402–169.805, p = 0.025).

Conclusion: Patients who are bedridden after stroke face a higher potential risk of cardiac hemodynamic impairment following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, emphasizing the need for meticulous hemodynamic monitoring during treatment and rehabilitation of these patients to prevent any potential cardiovascular complications.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: ChiCTR2300071376.
Population Size Structure and Length–Weight Relationships of Selected Pelagic Fishes From The Gambian Waters (West Africa)
Authors: Sidibeh Momodou , Baldé Bocar Sabaly , Jallow Momodou S. , Brehmer Patrice
Published: November 2024

The population size structure and length–weight relationships (LWRs) are fundamental tools in fishery science, providing valuable insights into the health, dynamics, and management of fish populations and contributing to the sustainable use of aquatic resources. The data used in this study were estimates from the main small pelagic fishes exploited in the Gambia. They were collected using surface and bottom gillnets between November 2020 and October 2021 during scientific fishing operations. The main small pelagic fish size composition showed a modal class of 20 cm for Ethmalosa fimbriata, 21 cm for Sardinella aurita, 22 cm for Sardinella maderensis, and 30 cm for Trachurus trecae. The parameter b value of these fish species ranged from 1.6831 to 2.9461, and the correlation coefficient ranged from 0.81 to 0.95. Statistical LWRs for all species were very significant. Information obtained is essential in reviewing and establishing basic management measures for depleted shared pelagic stocks in the Gambian fisheries and the sub‐region. In the context of poor data fisheries, such results also encourage the Gambian government and intergovernmental subregional organizations to support data collection in the long term.