bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi‐aspect permutation tests for model selection
Authors: Barzizza Elena , Biasetton Nicolò , Ceccato Riccardo
Published: October 2023

In typical machine learning frameworks, model selection is of fundamental importance: commonly, multiple models have to be trained and compared in order to identify the one with the best predictive performances. The aim of this study is to provide a new tool to improve the model selection process, allowing the user to identify the algorithm which significantly outperforms the other candidates. It proposes a robust model selection procedure based on a multi‐aspect permutation test which makes it possible to detect differences in both location and variability between two paired samples of prediction errors. A new extension of the nonparametric combination (NPC) methodology is therefore introduced and is integrated with an appropriate ranking procedure in order to deal with the comparison of candidate models. A simulation study is conducted to evaluate the performances of this testing procedure in 2‐sample and ‐sample problems, by generating data from various well‐known distributions and simulating several possible null and alternative scenarios. The adoption of the proposed technique in machine learning model selection problems is then discussed by means of multiple real data applications. These applications confirm what emerges from the simulation study: the introduced NPC‐based approach performs well under several different scenarios and represents a valuable tool for robust machine learning model selection.
WegFormer: Transformers for weakly supervised semantic segmentation
Authors: Liu Chunmeng , Li Guangyao
Published: October 2023

Although convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have achieved remarkable progress in weakly supervised semantic segmentation (WSSS), there are still deficiencies of object incompleteness due to the lack of receptive field and insufficient utilization of global context information of CNN. Based on the above observations, we propose a simple and effective method, WegFormer. Specifically, WegFormer captures the global context information with the Vision Transformer (ViT) as the classification network and is equipped with Deep Taylor Decomposition (DTD) principle and Soft Erase (SE) module to generate more integral pseudo labels and smooth further. However, we observe that although the generated pseudo‐labels are more complete, they intrude into the background region, that is, background incompleteness problem. The Efficient Potential Object Mining (EPOM) module we propose solves this problem well. Extensive experiments on the challenging PASCAL VOC 2012 and MS COCO 2014 demonstrate the effectiveness of WegFormer, where superior results of and are obtained on the PASCAL VOC 2012 and MS COCO 2014 validation sets, respectively.
Triacylglycerol, total fatty acid, and biomass accumulation of metabolically engineered energycane grown under field conditions confirms its potential as feedstock for drop‐in fuel production
Authors: Cao Viet Dang , Kannan Baskaran , Luo Guangbin , Liu Hui , Shanklin John , Altpeter Fredy
Published: October 2023

Metabolic engineering for hyperaccumulation of lipids in vegetative tissues of high biomass crops promises a step change in oil yields for the production of advanced biofuels. Energycane is the ideal feedstock for this approach due to its exceptional biomass production and persistence under marginal conditions. Here, we evaluated metabolically engineered energycane with constitutive expression of the lipogenic factors WRINKLED1 (WRI1), DIACYLGLYCEROL ACYLTRANSFERASE1 (DGAT1), and OLEOSIN1 (OLE1) for the accumulation of triacylglycerol (TAG), total fatty acid (TFA), and biomass under field conditions at the University of Florida‐IFAS experiment station near Citra, Florida. TAG and TFA accumulation were highest in leaves (up to 9.9% and 12.9% of DW, respectively), followed by juice from crushed stems, stems, and roots. TAG and TFA accumulation increased up to harvest time and correlated highest with OLE1 and DGAT1 expression. Biomass dry weight, TAG, and TFA content differed greatly depending on DGAT1 and OLE1 expression in transgenic lines with similar WRI1 expression. Biomass did not significantly differ between WT and line L2 with DAGT1 and OLE1 expressed at low levels and TAG and TFA accumulating to 12‐ and 1.6‐fold that of WT leaves, respectively. In contrast, line L13, with intron‐mediated enhancement of DGAT1 expression, displayed a 245‐ to 330‐fold increase in TAG and a 4.75‐ to 6.45‐fold increase in TFA content compared with WT leaves and a biomass reduction of 52%. These results provide the basis for developing novel feedstocks for expanding plant lipid production and point to new prospects for advanced biofuels.
Perceptual ratings of pronunciation for L2 learners of English as a function of task type, word position, and listener expertise
Authors: Nissen Shawn L. , Kemmey Rachel , Hartshorn K. James
Published: October 2023

Second language (L2) learners of English must learn to produce English phonemes, words, and sentences. These L2 learners make many errors when learning English; they may change the place or manner of articulation, insert vowels, or delete consonants. Obstruent sounds, such as fricatives, affricates, and stops, can be especially difficult for L2 learners. This study analyzed native English speakers’ perception of the quality of obstruents produced by native Mandarin Chinese and Korean speakers. Target words containing obstruents had been produced in three different tasks: in a carrier phrase, in a paragraph, and in a spontaneous speech sample. Obstruents were produced in word‐initial position and word‐final position. Raters with differing levels of expertise listened to these words and rated the perceptual quality of the obstruents within the words. This study found that overall, English obstruent productions by native Mandarin and Korean L2 speakers learning English were rated most clear when produced in word‐initial position in a carrier phrase or a paragraph. The lowest ratings given were of obstruents in word‐final position in spontaneous speech. No significant differences were found for listener expertise level. Combined with future research, results from this study will help educate the field of second language instruction as to how the speech of Korean and Mandarin learners of English is perceived. It also provides additional information on the effect that listener expertise has on the judgment of L2 speech production.
Criminalizing mobilities: Exit restrictions in post‐Soviet Central Asia
Authors: Turaeva Rano
Published: October 2023

Post‐Soviet authoritarianisms have seen many faces where mobilities skyrocked (tens of millions of migrants in Russia from Central Asia) and economies collapsed. Mobilities and freedom of mobility became number one topic of political agendas of many post‐Soviet countries. Mobilities have been administered, organized, restricted and criminalized to address increased outmigration from Central Asia. Such counties as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan (also Belorussia) introduced exit restrictions for their nationals to have a better control of their citizens and their migration plans. By now only Uzbekistan and Tajikistan abolished this system more or less only recently, whereas Turkmenistan follows a strict version of controlling mobility of its citizens both in the country and abroad. The paper is based on a decade anthropological research in the region since 2005. The paper includes a case study of Turkmen students studying outside of Turkmenistan and experiences of Uzbek nationals living abroad (before 2021). Besides ethnographic material detailing the experiences of migrants exiting Central Asia and living abroad, the paper offers an overview of the legal and political background on exit regulations.
Navigating changes: A qualitative study exploring the health‐related quality of life of breast cancer survivors during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic
Authors: Yip Ka‐Huen , Yip Yuk‐Chiu , Tsui Wai‐King , Chan Chun‐Sze Angela , Mo Yuen‐Han , Smith Graeme Drummond
Published: October 2023

Aims

To explore the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of breast cancer survivors.

Design

We utilized a qualitative descriptive approach to facilitate interviews among 25 participants, all of whom are survivors of breast cancer and have received treatment in Hong Kong within the preceding 3 years.

Methods

Content analysis was performed to understand how patients' HRQoL views and experiences changed during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Results

The results included six themes delineating the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: (i) survivor sensitivities in pandemic times, (ii) coping and conditioning in pandemic times, (iii) transforming work and home dynamics in pandemic times, (iv) cognitive resilience and adaptation to the COVID‐19 protective measures, (v) social resilience in pandemic times and (vi) healthcare adaptation and coping in pandemic times.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the experiences and challenges of breast cancer survivors during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Some survivors had new physical and psychological symptoms, including fear and anxiety, isolation, pain, lymphoedema and burnout, which potentially have long‐term impact upon HRQoL.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

This study highlights the unique challenges faced by breast cancer survivors during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, including accessing healthcare services and the impact of social isolation. Healthcare providers should consider the holistic needs of breast cancer survivors in the provision of health care and develop supportive interventions, including telehealth services and online support groups, to address these challenges and improve their HRQoL.

Impact

Surgery aimed at treating breast cancer or reducing its risk generally influences the appearance of breast areas and donor sites. The continuing effects of these changes on body image and HRQoL are well‐reported, although studies have ineffectively examined the initial experiences of women regarding their postoperative appearance, particularly during the pandemic.

Reporting method

The checklist of consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) was utilized.

Patient or public contribution

A small selection on breast cancer survivors contributed to the design of this study, in particular the content of the semi‐structured interviews.
Effects of positive behaviour support delivered by direct staff on challenging behaviours and quality of life of adults with intellectual disabilities: A multicentre cluster‐controlled trial
Authors: Bruinsma Eke , van den Hoofdakker Barbara J. , Hoekstra Pieter J. , de Kuijper Gerda M. , de Bildt Annelies A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Effects of staff provided positive behaviour support (PBS) for individuals with intellectual disabilities are unclear.

Method

Using a multicentre non‐randomised cluster controlled design, 26 teams of residential group homes, including 245 staff members of 167 individuals with intellectual disabilities, were allocated to a PBS or control group. Conducting multilevel analyses (n = 123) we examined individuals' changes in irritability, other challenging behaviours and quality of life.

Results

Compared to controls, irritability did not significantly decrease more in the intervention group, but lethargic behaviours did. Personal development and self‐determination significantly increased. Irritability of individuals in the PBS group with higher levels of irritability or lower levels of intellectual disability significantly reduced more compared to controls.

Conclusions

PBS was effective in reducing irritability of individuals with severe levels of irritability or intellectual disabilities. Moreover, PBS decreased lethargic behaviours and improved several domains of quality of life.
Microhymenoptera in roadside verges and the potential of arthropod‐friendly mowing for their preservation
Authors: Haas‐Renninger Maura , Weber Justus , Felske Isabel , Kimmich Thomas , Csader Michael , Betz Oliver , Krogmann Lars , Steidle Johannes L. M.
Published: October 2023

The worldwide decline of insects is one of the major challenges for humankind. One of its main drivers is intensive farming, which reduces habitats and food resources for insect populations and causes direct mortality by pesticides. In addition, mowing of grassland poses another threat to insects, especially when it is done frequently, such as in roadside verges. Roadside verges comprise large areas worldwide and can serve as habitats for animals and plants and as corridors to connect populations when they are maintained ecologically, for example when mowing is done arthropod‐friendly and with low frequency. Microhymenoptera are highly diverse, mostly show a parasitoid lifestyle and occur in large numbers in meadows and grasslands. Although they have an important ecological function in regulating their arthropod host populations, they were mostly neglected in studies on the influence of mowing on insects. Therefore, we assessed which families of microhymenoptera occur in roadside verges and meadows, examined if they are affected by the mowing process with a conventional mulching mower, and studied which groups benefit from arthropod‐friendly mowing, using the mowing head Eco 1200 plus from MULAG, and a flushing bar made of track tarpaulin. In our experimental grassland plots, we found specimens of 18 families from the six microhymenoptera superfamilies Chalcidoidea, Ceraphronoidea, Diaprioidea, Ichneumonoidea, Platygastroidea and Proctotrupoidea. Mowing with a conventional mulching mower caused a significant loss of up to 64% for parasitoid Hymenoptera. The Eco 1200 plus showed an arthropod‐friendly effect only on the number of individuals of Chalcidoidea, saving 38% of individuals compared with the conventional mower. The flushing bar showed a significant effect on total number of individuals with a reduction only on Chalcidoidea and a tendency for Ichneumonoidea with 30% and 47%, respectively. Our study demonstrates the detrimental effect of mowing with a conventional mulching mower on microhymenoptera and shows that this effect can be partly reversed for Chalcidoidea and Ichneumonoidea through the arthropod‐friendly mower and a flushing bar. Our study highlights the importance to consider microhymenoptera in the context of insect decline.
Clinical evaluation of subgingival open sandwich restorations: 3‐year results of a randomized double‐blind trial
Authors: Ismail Hoda S. , Ali Ashraf I. , El. Mehesen Rabab , Garcia‐Godoy Franklin , Mahmoud Salah H.
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To provide a 3‐year follow‐up of previously treated patients to assess and compare the periodontal responses and clinical performance of proximal subgingival open sandwich restorations.

Materials and Methods

Ninety‐five adults participated in the study, with a combined total of 120 compound Class II cavities. These cavities had gingival margins located below the CEJ. Four different restorative materials were used to elevate the dentin/cementum gingival margins of the cavities: resin‐modified glass ionomer, glass hybrid, flowable bulk‐fill composite, or ion‐releasing material, which were then completed with the same overlaying composite. Different periodontal and clinical evaluations, based on the criteria set by the World Dental Federation (FDI) criteria, were performed at different time intervals, including baseline, 6 months, 1, 2, and 3 years.

Results

The type of base material did not affect the periodontal evaluations. There were no statistically significant differences between different time intervals or base material groups in any of the evaluated FDI parameters. However, the ion‐releasing material scored significantly worse in the radiographic evaluation than any of the other groups.

Conclusions

All tested materials are suitable for proximal subgingival open sandwich restorations, as long as the restoration/tooth margin is at least 2‐mm away from the bone crest.

Clinical Significance

Clinicians can confidently choose any of the tested materials for proximal subgingival open sandwich restorations, as they have shown good outcomes from both periodontal and clinical perspectives.
The dual‐action mechanism of Arabidopsis cryptochromes
Authors: Qu Gao‐Ping , Jiang Bochen , Lin Chentao
Published: October 2023

Photoreceptor cryptochromes (CRYs) mediate blue‐light regulation of plant growth and development. It has been reported that Arabidopsis CRY1and CRY2 function by physically interacting with at least 84 proteins, including transcription factors or co‐factors, chromatin regulators, splicing factors, messenger RNA methyltransferases, DNA repair proteins, E3 ubiquitin ligases, protein kinases and so on. Of these 84 proteins, 47 have been reported to exhibit altered binding affinity to CRYs in response to blue light, and 41 have been shown to exhibit condensation to CRY photobodies. The blue light‐regulated composition or condensation of CRY complexes results in changes of gene expression and developmental programs. In this mini‐review, we analyzed recent studies of the photoregulatory mechanisms of Arabidopsis CRY complexes and proposed the dual mechanisms of action, including the “Lock‐and‐Key” and the “Liquid‐Liquid Phase Separation (LLPS)” mechanisms. The dual CRY action mechanisms explain, at least partially, the structural diversity of CRY‐interacting proteins and the functional diversity of the CRY photoreceptors.
Clinicopathological characteristics of cutaneous complications following COVID‐19 vaccination: A case series
Authors: Diab Reem , Rakhshan Azadeh , Salarinejad Sareh , Pourani Mohammad Reza , Ansar Padideh , Abdollahimajd Fahimeh
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Several vaccine‐related cutaneous adverse events occurred following the widespread use of vaccines to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). This case series reports 25 patients with de novo or accentuated dermatologic conditions after receiving the Sinopharm, Sputnik V, AstraZeneca, or BIV1‐CovIran vaccine in Iran.

Methods and Results

Twenty‐five eligible patients with a mean age of 46.80 years were investigated. The cutaneous adverse events included pityriasis rosea, zoster, viral exanthema, urticaria, bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris, and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. The manifestations appeared 14.45 ± 6.98 and 20.79 ± 22.18 days following injection of the first and second doses of COVID‐19 vaccines, respectively. All patients experienced new cases of cutaneous disease other than two who developed flare‐ups of lichen planus and psoriasis.

Conclusion

Several cutaneous reactions, ranging from allergic events to skin diseases, have been reported following the injection of COVID‐19 vaccines. Focal injection‐site reactions are the most common cutaneous adverse events; however, de‐novo skin diseases and a flare‐up of preexisting cutaneous disorders have also been described. Although many cases of COVID‐19 vaccine‐related cutaneous diseases have been published, our zoster/lichen planus and AGEP cases after vaccination are interesting. A more detailed understanding of cutaneous adverse events following COVID‐19 vaccination will facilitate better diagnosis and management.
Human capital in Europe, 1830s–1930s: A general survey
Authors: Cappelli Gabriele , Ridolfi Leonardo , Vasta Michelangelo , Westberg Johannes
Published: October 2023

Human capital is now widely acknowledged as one of the key determinants of economic growth. Research on how human skills accumulate and evolve through time has grown rapidly in recent years. This paper surveys it with a specific focus on Europe in the period 1830s–1930s. Our contribution is threefold: First, we find that the lack of fine‐grain spatial and (at the same time) harmonized data is preventing research on some important aspects of rising education. Second, we provide a preliminary taxonomy of European school acts and reforms in the 19th and early‐20th century. Finally, we present the first version of a dataset under construction, which aims at providing spatial data covering gross enrollment rates and literacy across European regions from c. 1830 to 1930. Our preliminary results show that, in c. 1850, educational clusters appear to have often crossed national borders. By contrast, the effect of national institutions and regulations seems to have become an important determinant of schooling (and literacy) rates on the eve of the 20th century.
Assessment of utero‐cervical angle and cervical length as predictors for threatened preterm delivery in singleton pregnancies
Authors: Korkmaz Nazli , Kiyak Huseyin , Bolluk Gokhan , Bafali Olgu , Ince Osman , Gedikbasi Ali
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the cervix and the threat of preterm labor in singleton pregnancies between gestational weeks less than 37 and greater than 37 weeks in correlation with utero‐cervical angle (UCA) and cervical length (CL) measurements.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study with UCA and CL measurements in patients with threatened preterm labor (TPL). Primary outcome was differences in UCA and CL measurements in relationship to maternal characteristics and perinatal outcome between groups. Secondary outcome evaluated measurement results and influencing factors for delivery within 7 days, between 1 and 4 weeks and beyond 4 weeks.

Results

Overall 152 patients were divided into as study/preterm group (<37 weeks; n = 56) and the control/term group (≥37 weeks; n = 96). Mean gestational age at admission was similar in both groups (30.98 ± 2.83 vs. 30.36 ± 2.63 weeks, p = 0.149) with similar CL (33.9 ± 6.34 vs. 32.02 ± 8.88 mm, p = 0.132), but wider UCA in the preterm group (81.65 ± 16.81° vs. 99.21 ± 22.33°, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis for preterm delivery was significant for nulliparity and UCA measurement. The factor for delivering before 37 gestational weeks within 7 days was the gestational week at admission (p = 0.046). UCA and CL measurements were statistically significant for distinguishing patients for delivery within 7 days and beyond 4 weeks (p = 0.001 for CL and p = 0.0001 for UCA). NPV was found 92.5, 92.2, and 92.3 for UCA >105°, CL ≤30 mm, and Bishop score >3, respectively.

Conclusion

Combined measurement of TV UCA and CL represents stronger predictors for sPTB ultrasonographically, demonstrating the uterocervical sub‐segment maturation before the active onset of labor.
Does cardiovascular risk matter in IBD patients?
Authors: Tilg Herbert , Fumery Mathurin , Hedin Charlotte R. H.
Published: October 2023

Cardiovascular and thromboembolic risks are increasing in the population as a whole and therefore also in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Obesity is a worldwide challenge also affecting the IBD population, and a causal association with Crohn's disease may exist. IBD itself, particularly when active, is also associated with a significant risk of thromboembolic and cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Cardiovascular risk is also a significant consideration when using Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and sphingosine 1 phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators to treat IBD. JAK inhibitors – such as tofacitinib – are associated with several cardiovascular and venous thromboembolic risks, including hypertension and alterations in lipid profiles – specifically, increased LDL cholesterol and triglycerides – which may contribute to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. S1P receptor modulators pose a slightly different set of cardiovascular risks. Initially, these drugs can cause transient bradycardia and atrioventricular (AV) block, leading to bradycardia. Moreover, they may induce QT interval prolongation, which increases the risk of life‐threatening arrhythmias such as torsades de pointes. Some patients may also experience hypertension as a side effect. In this context, IBD healthcare providers need to be alert to the assessment of cardiovascular risk – particularly as cardiovascular events appear to be confined to specific patient groups with pre‐existing risk factors. In addition, the potential for S1P modulator drug interactions requires a higher level of vigilance in patients with polypharmacy compared to biologics. Cardiovascular risk is not static, and updated assessment will need to become part of the routine in many IBD units.
Moral characteristics predicting COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Zher‐Wen  , Zhen Shanshan , Yu Rongjun
Published: October 2023

Objective

The current study aims to assess, for the first time, whether vaccination is predicted by different behavioral and cognitive aspects of moral decision‐making.

Background

Studies linking moral factors to vaccination have largely examined whether vaccination decisions can be explained by individual differences in the endorsement of various principles and norms central to deontology‐based arguments in vaccination ethics. However, these studies have overlooked whether individuals prioritize norms over other considerations when making decisions, such as maximizing consequences (utilitarianism).

Method

In a sample of 1492 participants, the current study assessed whether vaccination is explained by individual differences in three aspects of moral decision‐making (consequence sensitivity, norm sensitivity, and action tendency), while also considering ethics position (idealism, relativism) and moral identity.

Results

Supportive vaccination (vaccine uptake accompanied by a positive attitude toward vaccines) was associated with utilitarianism (increased consequence sensitivity) and increased tolerance to risks and harm toward others. Meanwhile, although those in the non‐vaccinated group was associated with higher harm sensitivities, they neither supported nor received the COVID vaccines (when vaccines prevent harm from infection).

Conclusion

Pro‐vaccination messages may be made more effective by addressing perceptions of harms associated with vaccines and infections, respectively.
Diabetes self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with serious mental illness: A cross‐sectional correlational study
Authors: Tzeng Wen‐Chii , Tai Yueh‐Ming , Feng Hsin‐Pei , Lin Chia‐Huei , Chang Yue‐Cune
Published: October 2023

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

People diagnosed with serious mental illness have a high risk of diabetes and are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes at ages below 60 years.

Effective diabetes self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with serious mental illness can improve glycaemic control and reduce vascular complications.

Few studies have investigated diabetes self‐care behaviours and their associations with health literacy and self‐efficacy in people diagnosed with serious mental illness.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

Diabetes self‐care behaviours in people diagnosed with serious mental illness were suboptimal; the least frequently performed self‐care activities were self‐monitoring of blood glucose.

Factors associated with diabetes self‐care behaviours are gender, age, communicative and critical health literacy and self‐efficacy.

Self‐efficacy is the strongest predictor of self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with comorbid serious mental illness and type 2 diabetes.

What are the implications of practice?

Mental health nurses should assess diabetes‐specific health literacy of people diagnosed with serious mental illness to ensure that they possess the knowledge and skills related to diabetes self‐care.

When treating young people and those with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, nurses should incorporate strategies to minimise their perceptions of diabetes‐related distress and increase their confidence in managing comorbid diabetes.

Introduction

People diagnosed with serious mental illness (SMI) experience greater challenges in managing their type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than do those diagnosed with T2DM alone.

Aim

This study investigated diabetes self‐care activities and the factors associated with these activities in people diagnosed with SMI in a hospital setting.

Methods

A cross‐sectional correlational study was conducted among 126 people diagnosed with comorbid SMI and T2DM in Taipei, Taiwan, between October 2020 and April 2021. Data were collected using self‐report questionnaires and a chart review. Three‐step hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with diabetes self‐care behaviours.

Results

Diabetes self‐care behaviours in people diagnosed with SMI were suboptimal overall. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that age (β = 0.18, p = .037) and self‐efficacy (β = 0.27, p = .004) significantly associated with diabetes self‐care behaviours.

Discussion

Self‐efficacy is the strongest predictor of self‐care behaviours among people diagnosed with comorbid SMI and T2DM.

Implications for Practice

Mental health professionals should focus on enhancing confidence in managing comorbid diabetes in people diagnosed with comorbid SMI, especially young people and those with newly diagnosed T2DM.
The Acquisition of Strategies to Express Plurality in Hearing Second Language Learners of Sign Language of the Netherlands
Authors: Boers‐Visker Eveline
Published: October 2023

This study reports on strategies to indicate plural referents in hearing learners of Sign Language of the Netherlands. This is the first explorative study that focuses on L2 expressions of plurality in a sign language. Using data from two datasets, I examined when learners start to express plural and which strategies they apply, and I noted typical learner characteristics. The first study examined spontaneous conversations of three learners, during the first 18 months of their learning. The second study analyzed elicited data from 11 learners during their first year of learning. The data reveal that learners are able to express plural referents in early stages, using strategies that are familiar to them (quantifiers) as well as strategies that do not occur in their mother tongue (reduplication of the noun, use of spatial devices). The early emergence might be explained by the salient nature of the devices and the resemblance with gestural portrayals.
Frictions and the diffusion of automation
Authors: Charalampidis Nikolaos
Published: October 2023

This paper studies the implications of business cycle frictions for the diffusion of permanent changes in automation. Incorporating task‐based production in different versions of the New Keynesian model reveals considerable short‐run implications. Price‐distorting nominal rigidities amplify the labor displacement and attenuate the productivity and welfare gains of automation during the transition to the new equilibrium. They exacerbate the falls in the labor income share, the job finding probability, the value of long‐term contracts, and labor market tightness. The inflation response follows a J‐curve. Frictions in capital supply and wage rigidities amplify the labor displacement and attenuate the productivity gains too.
Phytoplanktonic species in the haloalkaline Lake Dziani Dzaha select their archaeal microbiome
Authors: Bruto Maxime , Oger Philippe M. , Got Patrice , Bernard Cécile , Melayah Delphine , Cloarec Lilian A. , Duval Charlotte , Escalas Arthur , Duperron Sébastien , Guigard Ludivine , Leboulanger Christophe , Ader Magali , Sarazin Gerard , Jézéquel Didier , Agogué Hélène , Troussellier Marc , Hugoni Mylène
Published: October 2023

Microorganisms are key contributors of aquatic biogeochemical cycles but their microscale ecology remains largely unexplored, especially interactions occurring between phytoplankton and microorganisms in the phycosphere, that is the region immediately surrounding phytoplankton cells. The current study aimed to provide evidence of the phycosphere taking advantage of a unique hypersaline, hyperalkaline ecosystem, Lake Dziani Dzaha (Mayotte), where two phytoplanktonic species permanently co‐dominate: a cyanobacterium, Arthrospira fusiformis, and a green microalga, Picocystis salinarum. To assay phycospheric microbial diversity from in situ sampling, we set up a flow cytometry cell‐sorting methodology for both phytoplanktonic populations, coupled with metabarcoding and comparative microbiome diversity. We focused on archaeal communities as they represent a non‐negligible part of the phycospheric diversity, however their role is poorly understood. This work is the first which successfully explores in situ archaeal diversity distribution showing contrasted phycospheric compositions, with P. salinarum phycosphere notably enriched in Woesearchaeales OTUs while A. fusiformis phycosphere was enriched in methanogenic lineages affiliated OTUs such as Methanomicrobiales or Methanofastidiosales. Most archaeal OTUs, including Woesearchaeales considered in literature as symbionts, were either ubiquitous or specific of the free‐living microbiome (i.e. present in the 3–0.2 μm fraction). Seminally, several archaeal OTUs were enriched from the free‐living microbiome to the phytoplankton phycospheres, suggesting (i) either the inhibition or decrease of other OTUs, or (ii) the selection of specific OTUs resulting from the physical influence of phytoplanktonic species on surrounding Archaea.
Amazonian colonization from the Atlantic Forest: New perspectives on the connections of South American tropical forests
Authors: Bocalini Fernanda , Bolívar‐Leguizamón Sergio D. , Silveira Luís F. , Bravo Gustavo A.
Published: October 2023

An open and dry vegetation belt separates Amazonia (AM) and the Atlantic Forest (AF). Evidence from palaeoclimatic and phylogenetic studies suggests past connections between these forests during cycles of increased humidity through the formation of forest corridors. The distinctive northern AF avifauna is known to have affinities both with AM and the southern AF. Still, the extent of how these two regions contributed to the assemblage of this avifauna remains poorly understood. Using historical demographic analyses and comparative phylogeography based on sub‐genomic genetic sampling, we assessed how past connections between AM and AF led to shared vicariance and colonization events in four avian AF endemic taxa. Our results supported the occurrence of humid forest corridors promoting the contact between AF and AM populations and suggested two vicariant events and two colonization events from AF to AM. Population divergences were mostly non‐synchronous and occurred multiple times during the Pleistocene. Historical gene flow was prevalent across study groups, supporting migration flows after the initial separation between AM and AF – a pattern previously unknown in birds between these regions. Idiosyncratic histories and divergent demographic syndromes suggest that organisms' responses to climate‐driven habitat shifts broadly depend on their ecological attributes. This study strengthened our knowledge of past connections between AM and AF and provided demographic scenarios amenable for testing in other groups of co‐distributed organisms.
Unmasking microsatellite deceptiveness and debunking hybridization with SNPs in four marine copepod species of Calanus
Authors: Choquet Marvin , Lizano Apollo M. , Le Moan Alan , Ravinet Mark , Dhanasiri Anusha K. S. , Hoarau Galice
Published: October 2023

Interspecific hybridization events are on the rise in natural systems due to climate change disrupting species barriers. Across taxa, microsatellites have long been the molecular markers of choice to identify admixed individuals. However, with the advent of high‐throughput sequencing easing the generation of genome‐wide datasets, incorrect reports of hybridization resulting from microsatellite technical artefacts have been uncovered in a growing number of taxa. In the marine zooplankton genus Calanus (Copepoda), whose species are used as climate change indicators, microsatellite markers have suggested hybridization between C. finmarchicus and C. glacialis, while other nuclear markers (InDels) never detected any admixed individuals, leaving the scientific community divided. Here, for the first time, we investigated the potential for hybridization among C. finmarchicus, C. glacialis, C. helgolandicus and C. hyperboreus using two large and independent SNP datasets. These were derived firstly from a protocol of target‐capture applied to 179 individuals collected from 17 sites across the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, including sympatric areas, and second from published RNA sequences. All SNP‐based analyses were congruent in showing that Calanus species are distinct and do not appear to hybridize. We then thoroughly re‐assessed the microsatellites showing hybrids, with the support of published transcriptomes, and identified technical issues plaguing eight out of 10 microsatellites, including size homoplasy, paralogy, potential for null alleles and even two primer pairs targeting the same locus. Our study illustrates how deceptive microsatellites can be when applied to the investigation of hybridization.
Primed inflammatory response by fibroblast subset is necessary for proper oral and cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Chen Zhaoxu , Debnath Rahul , Chikelu Ifeoma , Zhou Jonathan X. , Ko Kang I.
Published: October 2023

Fibroblasts are ubiquitous mesenchymal cells that exhibit considerable molecular and functional heterogeneity. Besides maintaining stromal integrity, oral fibroblast subsets are thought to play an important role in host–microbe interaction during injury repair, which is not well explored in vivo. Here, we characterize a subset of fibroblast lineage labeled by paired‐related homeobox‐1 promoter activity (Prx1Cre+) in oral mucosa and skin and demonstrate these fibroblasts readily respond to microbial products to facilitate the normal wound healing process. Using a reporter mouse model, we determined that Prx1Cre+ fibroblasts had significantly higher expression of toll‐like receptors 2 and 4 compared to other fibroblast populations. In addition, Prx1 immunopositive cells exhibited heightened activation of inflammatory transcription factor NF‐κB during the early wound healing process. At the cytokine level, CXCL1 and CCL2 were significantly upregulated by Prx1Cre+ fibroblasts at baseline and upon LPS stimulation. Importantly, lineage‐specific knockout to prevent NF‐κB activation in Prx1Cre+ fibroblasts drastically impaired both oral and skin wound healing processes, which was linked to reduced macrophage infiltration, failure to resolve inflammation, and clearance of bacteria. Together, our data implicate a pro‐healing role of Prx1‐lineage fibroblasts by facilitating early macrophage recruitment and bacterial clearance.
Use tax administration and revenue production in the states
Authors: Mikesell John L. , Stavick John D. , Ross Justin M.
Published: October 2023

Use taxes are utilized by states to discourage taxpayers from engaging in sales tax avoidance via shopping in lower tax states. Enforcement of this tax has long been difficult, as demonstrated in the case of South Dakota v. Wayfair, Inc. (2018). States have instead relied on different administration and tax structures to generate revenues. We contribute to the limited existing use tax literature by studying a panel of use tax revenues collected from 25 states, as well as use tax collection methods states implement for individual and business taxpayers. States are best at enforcing the use tax where they can rely on complementary administrative tax collection systems, such as in business‐to‐business transactions. They will likely struggle to realize improved use tax compliance for household consumption even in the wake of the Wayfair ruling.
Transcriptional landscape of pathogen‐responsive lncRNAs in tomato unveils the role of hydrolase encoding genes in response to Botrytis cinerea invasion
Authors: Chen Daoguo , Zhang Zhanquan , Chen Yong , Li Boqiang , Chen Tong , Tian Shiping
Published: October 2023

LncRNAs have gained increasing attention owing to their important regulatory roles on growth and stress responses of plants. However, the mechanisms underlying the functions of lncRNAs in fruit‐pathogen interaction are still largely unknown. In this study, a total of 273 lncRNAs responding to Botrytis cinerea infection were identified in tomato fruit, among which a higher percentage of antisense lncRNAs were targeted to the genes enriched in hydrolase activity. To ascertain the roles of these lncRNAs, seven hydrolase‐related transcripts were transiently knocked‐down by virus‐induced gene silencing. Silencing of lncRNACXE20 reduced the expression level of a carboxylesterase gene, further enhancing the resistance of tomato to B. cinerea. In contrast, silencing of lncRNACHI, lncRNAMMP, lncRNASBT1.9 and lncRNAPME1.9 impaired the resistance to B. cinerea, respectively. Further RT‐qPCR assay and enzymatic activity detection displayed that the attenuated resistance of lncRNAMMP and lncRNASBT1.9‐silenced plants was associated with the inhibition on the expression of JA‐related genes, while the decreased resistance of lncRNACHI‐silenced plants resulted in reduced chitinase activity. Collectively, these results may provide references for deciphering the mechanisms underlying specific lncRNAs to interfere with B. cinerea infection by regulating the expression of defence‐related genes or affecting hydrolase activity.
Blood data trends of children in Fukushima after the Great East Japan Earthquake: Fukushima health management survey
Authors: Hashimoto Koichi , Nakano Hironori , Sakai Akira , Shimabukuro Michio , Kazama Junichiro James , Takahashi Atsushi , Ohira Tetsuya , Hashimoto Shigeatsu , Tsubokura Masaharu , Watanabe Kazuyuki , Hayashi Fumikazu , Nagao Masanori , Okazaki Kanako , Sato Shiho , Yasumura Seiji , Ohto Hitoshi , Kamiya Kenji , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: October 2023

Background

After the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011 and the subsequent accident at the Tokyo Electric Power Company‐operated Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, the Fukushima Prefecture government initiated the Fukushima Health Management Survey (FHMS) to assess the long‐term health effects of the disaster on Fukushima residents. The blood tests of children aged ≤15 years between 2011 and 2012 did not reveal any changes regarding peripheral blood data; however, long‐term monitoring is still necessary. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the long‐term health status of children aged ≤15 years who had evacuated the Fukushima Prefecture.

Methods

From 2011 to 2018, 71,250 evacuees aged 15 years or younger participated in the FMHS and were subjected to blood tests. By analyzing the data of the comprehensive health check survey managed by the FHMS, we examined the changes in hemoglobin (Hb) levels, white blood cell (WBC) counts, including fractions, and platelet (PLT) counts among children from 2011 to 2018.

Results

Minor fluctuations in Hb levels, PLT counts, and WBC counts were observed during the study period, but the central 95% intervals of distribution of the laboratory values were generally within previously reported reference intervals. In particular, there was no increase in the proportions of patients with anemia, polycythemia, or deviating WBC counts.

Conclusion

From 2011 to 2018, there was no increase in the percentages of children with anemia, polycythemia, or deviating WBC counts among the Fukushima Prefecture evacuees.
High‐throughput complement component 4 genomic sequence analysis with C4Investigator
Authors: Marin Wesley M. , Augusto Danillo G. , Wade Kristen J. , Hollenbach Jill A.
Published: October 2023

The complement component 4 gene loci, composed of the C4A and C4B genes and located on chromosome 6, encodes for complement component 4 (C4) proteins, a key intermediate in the classical and lectin pathways of the complement system. The complement system is an important modulator of immune system activity and is also involved in the clearance of immune complexes and cellular debris. C4A and C4B gene loci exhibit copy number variation, with each composite gene varying between 0 and 5 copies per haplotype. C4A and C4B genes also vary in size depending on the presence of the human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) in intron 9, denoted by C4(L) for long‐form and C4(S) for short‐form, which affects expression and is found in both C4A and C4B. Additionally, human blood group antigens Rodgers and Chido are located on the C4 protein, with the Rodger epitope generally found on C4A protein, and the Chido epitope generally found on C4B protein. C4A and C4B copy number variation has been implicated in numerous autoimmune and pathogenic diseases. Despite the central role of C4 in immune function and regulation, high‐throughput genomic sequence analysis of C4A and C4B variants has been impeded by the high degree of sequence similarity and complex genetic variation exhibited by these genes. To investigate C4 variation using genomic sequencing data, we have developed a novel bioinformatic pipeline for comprehensive, high‐throughput characterization of human C4A and C4B sequences from short‐read sequencing data, named C4Investigator. Using paired‐end targeted or whole genome sequence data as input, C4Investigator determines the overall gene copy numbers, as well as C4A, C4B, C4(Rodger), C4(Ch), C4(L), and C4(S). Additionally, C4Ivestigator reports the full overall C4A and C4B aligned sequence, enabling nucleotide level analysis. To demonstrate the utility of this workflow we have analyzed C4A and C4B variation in the 1000 Genomes Project Data set, showing that these genes are highly poly‐allelic with many variants that have the potential to impact C4 protein function.
Subduction signature in the Internal Ligurian units (Northern Apennine, Italy): Evidence from P–T metamorphic peak estimate
Authors: Meneghini Francesca , Di Rosa Maria , Marroni Michele , Raimbourg Hugues , Pandolfi Luca
Published: October 2023

The Internal Ligurian units (Northern Apennine) represent deformed and metamorphosed fragments of the oceanic lithosphere of the Ligure–Piemontese oceanic basin. Different tectonic models have been proposed for the geodynamic setting in which the deformation and metamorphism have been acquired. However, the lack of updated, clear, thermo‐barometric data has made it hard to unambiguously discriminate between these different proposed models. In this article, we provide evidence for the deformation of the Palombini Shale, i.e., pelagic deposits belonging to the Internal Ligurian units, under P and T peak conditions of 230–300°C. and 0.6–0.9 GPa, respectively. These data indicate that the Internal Ligurian units were affected by a blueschist facies metamorphism achieved during the underplating within the accretionary wedge developed during the Late Cretaceous—Early Tertiary Alpine subduction. These data support the hypothesis of a unique, pre‐Oligocene orogenic system for the Alpine belt and the westernmost sector of the Northern Apennines belt.