bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient enhancement of stimulus-evoked activity in neocortex during sensory learning
Authors: Zhu Mo , Kuhlman Sandra J. , Barth Alison L.
Published: July 2024

Synaptic potentiation has been linked to learning in sensory cortex, but the connection between this potentiation and increased sensory-evoked neural activity is not clear. Here, we used longitudinal in vivo Ca2+imaging in the barrel cortex of awake mice to test the hypothesis that increased excitatory synaptic strength during the learning of a whisker-dependent sensory-association task would be correlated with enhanced stimulus-evoked firing. To isolate stimulus-evoked responses from dynamic, task-related activity, imaging was performed outside of the training context. Although prior studies indicate that multiwhisker stimuli drive robust subthreshold activity, we observed sparse activation of L2/3 pyramidal (Pyr) neurons in both control and trained mice. Despite evidence for excitatory synaptic strengthening at thalamocortical and intracortical synapses in this brain area at the onset of learning—indeed, under our imaging conditions thalamocortical axons were robustly activated—we observed that L2/3 Pyr neurons in somatosensory (barrel) cortex displayed only modest increases in stimulus-evoked activity that were concentrated at the onset of training. Activity renormalized over longer training periods. In contrast, when stimuli and rewards were uncoupled in a pseudotraining paradigm, stimulus-evoked activity in L2/3 Pyr neurons was significantly suppressed. These findings indicate that sensory-association training but not sensory stimulation without coupled rewards may briefly enhance sensory-evoked activity, a phenomenon that might help link sensory input to behavioral outcomes at the onset of learning.
Study of
Bs→ϕ(ρ0,ω)
decays in the standard model and a family nonuniversal
Z′
model
Authors: Li Ying , Sun Yue , Zou Zhi-Tian
Published: July 2024

Within the QCD factorization approach, we employ the new results of form factors of Bs→ϕ and calculate the branching fractions, CP asymmetries (CPAs) and polarization fractions of the decay modes Bs→ϕ(ρ0,ω) in both the standard model (SM) and the family nonuniversal Z′ model. We find that in SM the above observables are relate to two parameters, ρH and ϕH, which characterize the end-point divergence in the hard spectator-scattering amplitudes. When setting ρH=0.5 and ϕH∈[−180,180]°, the theoretical uncertainties are large. By combining the experimental data, our results can be used to constrain these two parameters. Supposing ρH=0, we study the effects of the Z′ boson on the concerned observables. With the available branching fraction of Bs→ϕρ0, the possible ranges of parameter spaces are obtained. Within the allowed parameter spaces, the branching fraction of Bs→ϕω can be enlarged remarkably. Furthermore, the new introduced weak phase plays important roles in significantly affecting the CPAs and polarization fractions, which are important observables for probing the effects of NP. If these decay modes were measured in the on-going LHC-b and Belle-II experiments in the future, the peculiar deviation from SM could provide a signal of the family nonuniversal Z′ model, which can also be used to constrain the mass of Z′ boson in turn.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Exact Numerical Solution of the Fully Connected Classical and Quantum Heisenberg Spin Glass
Authors: Kavokine Nikita , Müller Markus , Georges Antoine , Parcollet Olivier
Published: July 2024

We present the mean field solution of the quantum and classical Heisenberg spin glasses, using the combination of a high precision numerical solution of the Parisi full replica symmetry breaking equations and a continuous time quantum Monte Carlo algorithm. We characterize the spin glass order and its low-energy excitations down to zero temperature. The Heisenberg spin glass has a rougher energy landscape than its Ising analog, and exhibits a very slow temperature evolution of its dynamical properties. We extend our analysis to the doped, metallic Heisenberg spin glass, which displays unexpectedly slow spin dynamics, reflecting the proximity to the melting quantum critical point and its associated Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev Planckian dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Remote response modes on the paced excitable
C. elegans
network
Authors: Qian Yu , Chen Zhili , Yang Runru , Gao Hongyan , Lei Zhao , Zheng Zhigang
Published: July 2024

In paced excitable systems, a traditional viewpoint on signal transmission is that an excitable pacing signal should propagate from the source to its excited neighbors in a sequential rule, which is known as the normal (SRM). However, in our present paper, by extensively exploring the response modes emerged on the , we found that, besides the normal SRM, a response mode that breaks the sequence rule and contains isolated excited clusters or even isolated excited nodes on the propagation path of the response structure can be detected. Such remote response nodes and clusters are excited discontinuously from the source node, forming the phenomenon of the (RRM). An (EDAA) is proposed to theoretically study the mechanism of the RRM, based on which key role played by the excited nodes possessing nonexcited upstream driving neighbors is confirmed in the formation of the RRM. We further verify the applicability and the universality of the EDAA in identifying the RRM on general paced excitable networks. These contributions are expected to shed light on the study of complex response modes in paced excitable systems and to have great impact in related topics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
How influencer characteristics drive Gen Z behavioural intentions of selecting fast-food restaurants: mediating roles of consumer emotions and self-construal
Authors: Ghosh Pratik , Upadhyay Sonali , Srivastava Vimal , Dhiman Rahul , Yu Larry
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study measured influencer characteristics, consumer emotions, self-construal, and behavioural intentions of Gen Z consumers for selecting fast-food restaurants in India. A consumer behaviour model was conceptualized based on established theories.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional design was employed for hypothesis testing. Influencer characteristic perceptions, consumer emotions, self-construal, and behavioural intentions were measured for Gen Z consumers in Tier 1 cities in India using structural equation modelling.

Findings

Influencer characteristics significantly influenced behavioural intentions, consumer emotions, and self-construal in Gen Z consumers. Self-construal was also a significant predictor of behavioural intentions. Consumer emotions had a negative effect on behavioural intentions. Self-construal was a mediator between influencer characteristics and behavioural intentions and between consumer emotions and behavioural intentions. However, consumer emotions did not mediate the relationship between influencer characteristics and behavioural intentions.

Practical implications

Marketers can leverage these insights to design influencer campaigns that resonate with the emotions and self-construal of Gen Z consumers. Microinfluencers with characteristics that align with the target demographic’s emotions and self-perception can be strategically chosen.

Originality/value

Only a limited number of studies have investigated the influence of social media marketing on consumer behaviour within the fast-food industry, specifically with Gen Z consumers. This study sheds new light on the behavioural intention of Gen Z consumers predicted through influencer characteristics, consumer emotions, and self-construal through a conceptual model. The results support choosing microinfluencers and investing in them judiciously to promote fast-food businesses.
A comparison of rolling element bearing stiffness calculation methods
Authors: Wang Zi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study examines two distinct bearing stiffness calculation methods, both of which are based on the displacement-load function. Previous research typically incorporated one type of bearing stiffness into their system mechanics or vibration analysis. However, these two methods of calculating stiffness lead to different vibration models. This implies that the choice for vibration investigation is not merely about selecting one of the two types of stiffness, but also about how to appropriately implement that chosen stiffness within a model. The primary objective of this work is to compare these two methods of bearing calculation and to discuss the suitable applications of each method in both static and dynamic analyses.

Design/methodology/approach

This study compares two distinct methods for calculating bearing stiffness. It explores the relationships between varying bearing stiffnesses, their internal structures, and contact features. Furthermore, it examines the impact of external loads on the static properties and dynamic characteristics of different bearing stiffnesses. Finally, based on the outcomes observed under various operating conditions, the study discusses the suitability of each method for static and dynamic analysis.

Findings

Mean stiffness is more suitable for calculating load transmissibility in a static state or capturing the delivery performance at instantaneous equilibrium positions in a dynamic state. Since the variation of the equilibrium positions is ignored, the alternating stiffness model is better suited for capturing the fluctuating properties of the vibration behaviors, especially under variable external load conditions.

Originality/value

We compare the two bearing calculation methods and discuss the appropriate applications of each method for static and dynamic analysis.
The power of feedback in teacher education
Authors: Weaver Joanna C. , Matangula Tionge C. , Matney Gabriel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This qualitative study extends jigsaw lesson study (JLS) by focusing specifically on the impact of feedback on teacher candidates’ (TCs') professional knowledge and instructional growth in the teacher-educator classroom.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study, JLS took place in two different methods courses and followed the lesson study (LS) framework using the small group rotations of JLS. In each course, the JLS small group teams taught another team before receiving feedback and revising their lessons. Then they would teach another group. After each iteration, teams debriefed and reviewed the feedback to revise their lessons and prepare for reteaching. Following the JLS process, TCs reflected on the impact of feedback in a post-survey that was analyzed, coded and aligned with their lesson iterations and revisions.

Findings

Both integrated language arts (ILA) and math TCs reported that receiving peer feedback improved their lessons, instructional materials, revisions and student engagement. Through collaboration, TCs valued peer dialog, multiple perspectives and TCs learned to provide and receive constructive feedback professionally. Overall, feedback and collaboration helped strengthen their lesson planning as they considered multiple perspectives. Feedback helped TCs consider differentiation and the diversity of learners as well as student engagement while building their professional knowledge.

Originality/value

Although a previous study has shown an impact of JLS in ILA teacher-education courses with a broader scope in mathematics courses, this study focused on the JLS process in two teacher-education courses. Furthermore, current research tends to focus on the LS process, but this study focused specifically on TCs’ perceptions of the impact of feedback of their professional and instructional growth.
Mapping the intellectual structure of research on institutional investors’ behavior: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Dhingra Barkha , Yadav Mahender
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the existing body of knowledge concentrating on institutional investors’ behavior. It seeks to track how this domain has evolved through collaborative networks, as well as significant contributors, themes and research opportunities for future work.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study applies bibliometric analysis to examine the trends in the selected research field, using 446 articles from highly recognized journals indexed in the Scopus database.

Findings

The authors discovered that research on institutional investors’ behavior has significantly increased over the past four decades due to academic interest in the topic. This study observed five themes that unite the research in this field: institutional investors and corporate behavior; determinants of institutional investors’ trading patterns and performance; trading activity and its outcomes; herding, causes and consequences; and institutional investment and corporate performance. Moreover, future directions are penned down, such as how institutional investors’ control influences governance disclosures.

Originality/value

This study serves as a guide by mapping and analyzing the intellectual development of the research literature on institutional investors’ behavior. The authors contribute to the knowledge base by providing a solid foundation for further studies.
Analysis of efficiency and influencing factors of knowledge services in public libraries: the evidence from China
Authors: Jiaxuan Li , Xiuxiu Du , Jiewang Chu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to quantify and evaluate the efficiency of knowledge services public libraries (PLKS) in China and to analyze the factors affecting the efficiency of PLKS. The focus of this study is to explore the characteristics and changing trends of PLKS and how to improve the efficiency of PLKS. The conclusions drawn in this paper are expected to provide important references for academic research and practical exploration in related fields.

Design/methodology/approach

This study constructs a three-stage process of PLKS. On this basis, the efficiency is analyzed by using the Super-NSBM model, and the influencing factors of PLKS are analyzed by using OLS. Finally, through the comprehensive interpretation of the measured data and the existing social development conditions, the authors put forward relevant recommendations.

Findings

In the first stage, the PLKS in China meets the basic requirements, but there is an obvious waste of resources in the second stage. In addition, China’s public libraries show obvious regional differences in knowledge service efficiency. Finally, it was found that economic and technological factors can increase the efficiency of PLKS, but the increase in the number of university students will reduce the efficiency of PLKS.

Originality/value

In this study, the authors provide an exhaustive deconstruction and explanation of PLKS, which leads to the proposal of a three-stage PLKS efficiency conversion process. Furthermore, the authors identify a diverse set of quantifiable metrics that are readily accessible for open collection. Notably, the authors correlated the efficiency of PLKS with the influencing factors, exploring PLKS from a new perspective and enriching the research related to PLKS.
Robust vision detection of pipeline solder joints
Authors: An Huijun , Kong Lingbao
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Solder joint inspection plays a critical role in various industries, with a focus on integrated chip (IC) solder joints and metal surface welds. However, the detection of tubular solder joints has received relatively less attention. This paper aims to address the challenges of detecting small targets and complex environments by proposing a robust visual detection method for pipeline solder joints. The method is characterized by its simplicity, cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

A robust visual detection method based on the characteristics of pipeline solder joints is proposed. With the improved hue, saturation and value (HSV) color space, the method uses a multi-level template matching approach to first segment the pipeline from the background, and then match the endpoint of the pipeline to accurately locate the solder joint. The proposed method leverages the distinctive characteristics of pipeline solder joints and employs an enhanced HSV color space. A multi-level template matching approach is utilized to segment the pipeline from the background and accurately locate the solder joint by matching the pipeline endpoint.

Findings

The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed solder joint detection method in practical detection tasks. The average precision of pipeline weld joint localization exceeds 95%, while the average recall is greater than 90%. These findings highlight the applicability of the method to pipeline solder joint detection tasks, specifically in the context of production lines for refrigeration equipment.

Research limitations/implications

The precision of the method is influenced by the placement angle and lighting conditions of the test specimen, which may pose challenges and impact the algorithm's performance. Potential avenues for improvement include exploring deep learning methods, incorporating additional features and contextual information for localization, and utilizing advanced image enhancement techniques to improve image quality.

Originality/value

The proposed pipeline solder joint detection method offers a novel and practical approach. The simplicity, cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation make it an attractive choice for detecting pipeline solder joints in different industrial applications.
Patterns of constitutive and induced herbivore defence are complex, but share a common genetic basis in annual and perennial monkeyflower
Authors: Blanchard Megan L. , Lowry David B. , Holeski Liza M.
Published: July 2024

Despite multiple ecological and evolutionary hypotheses that predict patterns of phenotypic relationships between plant growth, reproduction and constitutive and/or induced resistance to herbivores, these hypotheses do not make any predictions about the underlying molecular genetic mechanisms that mediate these relationships.

We investigated how divergent plant life‐history strategies in the yellow monkeyflower and a life‐history altering locus, DIV1, influence plasticity of phytochemical herbivory resistance traits in response to attack by two herbivore species with different diet breadth.

Life‐history strategy (annual vs. perennial) and the DIV1 locus significantly influenced levels of constitutive herbivory resistance, as well as resistance induction following both generalist and specialist herbivory. Perennial plants had higher total levels of univariate constitutive and induced defence than annuals, regardless of herbivore type. Annuals induced less in response to generalist herbivory than did perennials, while induction response was equivalent across the ecotypes for specialist herbivory.

The effects of the DIV1 locus on levels of constitutive and induced defence were dependent on genetic background, the annual versus perennial haplotype of DIV1 and herbivore identity. The patterns of univariate induction due to DIV1 were non‐additive and did not always match expectations based on patterns of divergence for annual/perennial parents. For example, perennial plants had higher levels of constitutive and induced defence than did annuals, but when the annual DIV1 was present in the perennial genetic background induction response to herbivory was higher than for the perennial parent lines.

Patterns for multivariate defence arsenals generally echoed those of univariate, with annual and perennial monkeyflowers and those with alternative versions of DIV1 differing significantly in constitutive and induced resistance. Like univariate resistance, induced multivariate defence arsenals were affected by herbivore identity.

Our results highlight the complexity of the genetic mechanisms underlying plastic response to herbivory. While a genetic locus underlying substantial phenotypic variation in life‐history strategy and constitutive defence also influences defence plasticity, the induction response also depends on genetic background. This result demonstrates the potential for some degree of evolutionary independence between constitutive and induced defence, or induced defence and life‐history strategy, in monkeyflowers.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Hospitals' collection and use of data to address social needs and social determinants of health
Authors: Richwine Chelsea , Meklir Samantha
Published: July 2024

Objective

To assess differences in hospitals' collection and use of data on patients' health‐related social needs (HRSN) by availability of programs or strategies in place to address patients' HRSN and social determinants of health (SDOH) of communities.

Data Sources

The 2021 American Hospital Association Annual Survey and 2022 Information Technology (IT) Supplement.

Study Design

This cross‐sectional study described hospitals' engagement in screening and the availability of programs or strategies to address nine different HRSN. We assessed differences in screening rates and uses of data collected through screening among hospitals with and without programs or strategies in place to address HRSN or SDOH using Chi‐squared tests of independence.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Analyses were restricted to IT Supplement respondents with complete data for social needs questions asked in the Annual Survey (N = 1997).

Principal Findings

In 2022, hospitals used social needs data collected through screening for various purposes including discharge planning and clinical decision‐making at their hospital as well as to refer patients to needed resources and assess community‐level needs. Hospitals with a program or strategy in place had higher rates of screening across all domains and higher rates of using of data collected through screening for uses involving exchange or coordination with external entities.

Conclusions

Collection of social needs data may help inform the development of programs or strategies to address HRSN and SDOH, which in turn can enable providers to screen for these needs and use the data in the near term for care delivery and in the long term to address community and population needs.
Measuring deoxygenation effects on marine predators: A new animal‐attached archival tag recording in situ dissolved oxygen, temperature, fine‐scale movements and behaviour
Authors: da Costa Ivo , Sims David W. , Loureiro Bruno , Waller Matt J. , Womersley Freya C. , Loveridge Alexandra , Humphries Nicolas E. , Southall Emily J. , Vedor Marisa , Mucientes Gonzalo , Prendergast Sophie , Fontes Jorge , Afonso Pedro , Macena Bruno C. L. , Watanabe Yuuki Y. , Queiroz Nuno
Published: July 2024

Global climate‐driven ocean warming has decreased dissolved oxygen (DO) levels (ocean deoxygenation) leading to expansions of hypoxic zones, which will affect the movements, behaviour, physiology and distributions of marine animals. However, the precise responses of animals to low DO remains poorly understood because movements and activity levels are seldom recorded alongside instantaneous DO in situ.

We describe a new animal‐attached (dissolved oxygen measuring, DOME) archival tag with an optical oxygen sensor for recording DO, in addition to sensors for temperature and depth, a triaxial accelerometer for fine‐scale movements and activity, and a GPS for tag recovery. All sensors were integrated on a single electronic board.

Calibration tests demonstrated small mean difference between DOME tag and factory‐calibrated DO sensors (mean relative error of 5%). No temporal drift occurred over a test period three times longer than the maximum deployment time. Deployments on four blue sharks (Prionace glauca) in the central North Atlantic Ocean showed regular vertical oscillations from the surface to a maximum of 404 m. Profiles from diving sharks recorded DO concentrations ranging from 217 to 272 μmol L−1, temperatures between 13°C and 23°C, and identified an oxygen maximum at ~45 m depth, all of which were consistent with ship‐based measurements. Interestingly, the percentage of time sharks spent burst swimming was greater in the top 85 m compared to deeper depths, potentially because of higher prey availability in the surface layer.

The DOME tag described blue shark fine‐scale movements and activity levels in relation to accurately measured in situ DO and temperature, with the potential to offer new insights of animal performance in low oxygen environments. Development of a tag with physico‐chemical and movement sensors on a single electronic board is a first step towards satellite relay of these data over broader spatiotemporal scales (months over thousands of kilometres) to determine direct and indirect responses of marine animals to heatwave and deoxygenation events.
Longitudinal associations of retinal vessel morphology with intraocular pressure and blood pressure at follow‐up visit—Findings from a Danish eye and vision cohort, Project FOREVER
Authors: Freiberg Josefine , Welikala Roshan , Rovelt Jens , Barman Sarah A. , Owen Christopher G. , Rudnicka Alicja R. , Kolko Miriam ,   the FOREVER consortium
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To characterise the retinal vasculometry of a Danish eye and vision cohort and examine associations with systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, mean arterial BP, and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Design

Longitudinal study.

Methods

The retinal vasculature of fundus images from the FOREVER (Finding Ophthalmic Risks and Evaluating the Value of Eye exams and their predictive Reliability) cohort was analysed using a fully automated image analysis program. Longitudinal associations of retinal vessel morphology at follow‐up visit with IOP (baseline and follow‐up) and BP (follow‐up) were examined using multilevel linear regression models adjusting for age, sex and retinal vasculometry at baseline as fixed effects and person as random effect. Width measurements were additionally adjusted for the spherical equivalent.

Results

A total of 2089 subjects (62% female) with a mean age of 61 (standard deviation 8) years and a mean follow‐up period of 4.1 years (SD 0.6 years) were included. The mean arteriolar diameter was approximately 20% thinner than the mean venular diameter, and venules were about 21%–23% less tortuous than arterioles. BP at follow‐up was associated with decreased arteriolar diameter from baseline to follow‐up. After adjusting for baseline IOP, IOP at follow‐up was associated with increased arteriolar tortuosity above baseline (0.59%, 95% CI 0.08–1.10, p‐value 0.024).

Conclusion

In a Danish eye and vision cohort, variations in BP and alterations in IOP over time were associated with changes in the width and tortuosity of retinal vessels. Our findings contribute novel insights into retinal vascular alterations over time.
New surgery technique combining robotics and laparoscopy using the Hugo™ RAS system
Authors: Komatsu Hiroaki , Sawada Mayumi , Iida Yuki , Wada Ikumi , Azuma Yukihiro , Kudoh Akiko , Sato Shinya , Harada Tasuku , Taniguchi Fuminori
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hybrid total laparoscopic hysterectomy combines conventional laparoscopic surgery and robot‐assisted devices: the camera and assistant forceps are operated by a robotic device, whereas the surgeon performs laparoscopic procedures, enabling surgery with a completely fixed field of view and significantly reducing errors in forceps grasping and needle misalignment. Here, we examined whether using two arms of the Hugo™ robot‐assisted surgery system, one for the camera and one for the assistant, would improve surgical accuracy compared with conventional total laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Materials and Surgical Technique

The surgical system reduced surgeon errors in grasping the forceps during training and stabilized forceps operation. Compared with conventional laparoscopic surgery, the use of the surgical system did not result in different operative durations. The stable surgical procedure was considered a major advantage.

Discussion

This new technique involving new equipment can improve surgeon training and performance. In the future, we will develop new techniques to improve surgical performance.
Comparing grass biomass estimation methods for management decisions in a semi‐arid landscape
Authors: Riquelme Linda , Rumpff Libby , Duncan David H. , Vesk Peter A.
Published: July 2024

Aims

Environmental managers require reliable and cost‐efficient monitoring methods for effective decision‐making. Understanding forage availability is important for managing wild, vertebrate herbivore populations. We developed a process for exploring the accuracy and cost efficiency of various biomass estimation techniques for a case study where semi‐arid woodland restoration is threatened by kangaroo grazing, with the aim of determining which method was most fit for purpose in a given decision context.

Location

Wyperfeld National Park, southeastern Australia.

Methods

Grass biomass was estimated using a variety of methods, then compared to clipped biomass using linear models. Biomass estimation methods were either field‐based (i.e., rising plate meter, multispectral radiometer) or satellite‐based (i.e., Landsat satellite imagery, AussieGRASS forage production model). Sampling occurred across open and wooded semi‐arid vegetation types. We compared methods based on accuracy, the ability of each method to accurately predict a ‘forage‐switch’ threshold, cost, and the suitability for the management context.

Results

For this case study, the multispectral radiometer was the most precise, yet most expensive, biomass estimation method over a single survey. However, satellite imagery proved to be the most cost‐efficient and fit for purpose, as it was inexpensive and most accurately estimated biomass around a forage‐switch threshold, second only to the multispectral radiometer. Accuracy of all methods was improved by including tree cover in the regression models.

Conclusions

We demonstrate a process for exploring which biomass estimation tool might be preferred for a given decision context, highlighting accuracy, consideration of tolerance to uncertainty and risk, the spatial and temporal scale of information required, and budget constraints.
Late syn‐rift to early post‐rift basin fill dynamics of a mixed siliciclastic‐carbonate succession banked to a basement high, Hornsund, southwestern Spitsbergen, Arctic Norway
Authors: Dahlin Anders , Blinkenberg Kasper H. , Braathen Alvar , Olaussen Snorre , Senger Kim , Smyrak‐Sikora Aleksandra , Stemmerik Lars
Published: July 2024

The transition from syn‐rift to post‐rift sedimentation in rift basins is difficult to characterize in terms of stratigraphic architecture and dominating control on sedimentation, due to decreasing tectonic activity interplaying with regional subsidence, eustatic sea level changes, and differential compaction of underlying syn‐rift sediments. Our case study of the Late Palaeozoic Inner Hornsund Fault Zone targets late syn‐rift strata recorded in the (?Pennsylvanian – ?lower Permian) Treskelodden Formation in Hornsund, southern Spitsbergen, representing a mixed siliciclastic‐carbonate succession, with siliciclastics primarily sourced from the adjacent Sørkapp‐Hornsund High. We document local scale (<10 km) facies variability, sequence stratigraphy, and evolution of a succession deposited along a flank of the structural high during the late syn‐rift stage. We observe that during the transition towards rift termination (glacio‐)eustatic sea level changes and overall regional flooding became a more prominent forcing factor controlling sedimentation. Our dataset includes sedimentary logs, microfacies analysis, and high‐resolution digital outcrop models. We identify four progressively backstepping stratigraphic sequences, reflecting an evolution from (1) terrestrial siliciclastics through (2–3) nearshore mixed siliciclastic–carbonates, to (4) carbonate ramp deposits. On the small scale (<5 m) the internal sediment cyclicity of the succession was formed by autogenic processes, particularly the changing rate of sediment input from the southwestern source area (the uplifted Sørkapp‐Hornsund basement high). On the larger scale (10s of m), the importance of glacio‐eustatic sea‐level changes, driven by waxing and waning of ice caps in the southern hemisphere (Gondwana), increased as the rift‐related tectonics decreased. The interdisciplinary methods used in this study provide new knowledge of the Middle Pennsylvanian to Permian depositional evolution in southern Spitsbergen, besides a novel framework for comparison to adjacent basins in the region and similar basins elsewhere.
The bidirectional relationship between peer relationships and bullying: Evidence from cross‐lagged analyses among Chinese children
Authors: Li Qing , Chu Xiaowei , Yang Yuxin , Jia Yunzhen
Published: July 2024

Background

In the digital age, bullying manifests in two distinct forms: traditional bullying and cyberbullying. Children's peer relationships are important predictors of bullying, and bullying in turn predicts peer relationships. However, few researchers have noted the bidirectional relationship between peer relationships and bullying.

Methods

The present study used a two‐wave cross‐lagged longitudinal design to fill this gap. The potential sex differences were also examined in this relationship. The sample consisted of 527 Chinese children aged 8 to 12 years (M = 9.69, SD = .96; 53.5% female). Participants completed peer nominations for peer acceptance, peer rejection and social dominance, as well as self‐reports of traditional bullying and cyberbullying.

Results

Results showed that peer rejection at the first time point (T1) significantly and positively predicted traditional bullying perpetration, cyberbullying perpetration and cyberbullying victimization at the second time point (T2). Traditional bullying victimization at T1 significantly and negatively predicted peer acceptance and social dominance at T2. The results also revealed significant male and female differences. For instance, among boys, peer acceptance at T1 significantly and negatively predicted cyberbullying victimization at T2. In contrast, this relationship was not observed among girls. The present findings have important implications for understanding the cyclical relationship between peer relationships and bullying and providing practical guidance for improving peer relationships and reducing bullying.
Low‐intensity noise exposure takes an essential part in the mechanism of late‐onset hereditary hearing loss caused by Abcc1 mutation
Authors: Jiang Mengzhu , Zhang Shuai , Liu Jing , Pang Bo , Bai Yijiang , Chen Yongjia , Huang Huping , Ling Jie , Mei Lingyun
Published: July 2024

With the development of the social economy, we are exposed to increasing noise in our daily lives. Our previous work found an ABCC1(NM_004996.3:c.A1769G, NP_004987.2:p.N590S) variant which cosegregated with the patients in an autosomal dominant non‐syndromic hearing loss family. At present, the specific mechanism of deafness caused by ABCC1 mutation is still not clear. Using the knock‐in mouse model simulating human ABCC1 mutation, we found that the occurrence of family‐related phenotypes was likely attributed to the combination of the mouse genotype and low‐intensity noise. GSH and GSSG are important physiological substrates of ABCC1. The destruction of GSH‐GSSG balance in the cochleae of both Abcc1N591S/+ mice and Abcc1N591S/N591S mice during low‐intensity noise exposure may result in irreversible damage to the hair cells of the cochleae, consequently leading to hearing loss in mice. The findings offered a potential novel idea for the prevention and management of hereditary hearing loss within this family.
RNA m6A modification regulates cell fate transition between pluripotent stem cells and 2‐cell‐like cells
Authors: Su Zhongqu , Dong Yu , Sun Jiatong , Wu You , Wei Qingqing , Liang Yuwei , Lin Zhiyi , Li Yujun , Shen Lu , Xi Chenxiang , Wu Li , Xu Yiliang , Liu Yingdong , Yin Jiqing , Wang Hong , Shi Kerong , Le Rongrong , Gao Shaorong , Xu Xiaocui
Published: July 2024

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) exerts essential roles in early embryos, especially in the maternal‐to‐zygotic transition stage. However, the landscape and roles of RNA m6A modification during the transition between pluripotent stem cells and 2‐cell‐like (2C‐like) cells remain elusive. Here, we utilised ultralow‐input RNA m6A immunoprecipitation to depict the dynamic picture of transcriptome‐wide m6A modifications during 2C‐like transitions. We found that RNA m6A modification was preferentially enriched in zygotic genome activation (ZGA) transcripts and MERVL with high expression levels in 2C‐like cells. During the exit of the 2C‐like state, m6A facilitated the silencing of ZGA genes and MERVL. Notably, inhibition of m6A methyltransferase METTL3 and m6A reader protein IGF2BP2 is capable of significantly delaying 2C‐like state exit and expanding 2C‐like cells population. Together, our study reveals the critical roles of RNA m6A modification in the transition between 2C‐like and pluripotent states, facilitating the study of totipotency and cell fate decision in the future.
Integration of individual preclinical and clinical anti‐infective PKPD data to predict clinical study outcomes
Authors: Aranzana‐Climent Vincent , van Os Wisse , Nutman Amir , Lellouche Jonathan , Dishon‐Benattar Yael , Rakovitsky Nadya , Daikos George L. , Skiada Anna , Pavleas Ioannis , Durante‐Mangoni Emanuele , Theuretzbacher Ursula , Paul Mical , Carmeli Yehuda , Friberg Lena E.
Published: July 2024

The AIDA randomized clinical trial found no significant difference in clinical failure or survival between colistin monotherapy and colistin–meropenem combination therapy in carbapenem‐resistant Gram‐negative infections. The aim of this reverse translational study was to integrate all individual preclinical and clinical pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic (PKPD) data from the AIDA trial in a pharmacometric framework to explore whether individualized predictions of bacterial burden were associated with the trial outcomes. The compiled dataset included for each of the 207 patients was (i) information on the infecting Acinetobacter baumannii isolate (minimum inhibitory concentration, checkerboard assay data, and fitness in a murine model), (ii) colistin plasma concentrations and colistin and meropenem dosing history, and (iii) disease scores and demographics. The individual information was integrated into PKPD models, and the predicted change in bacterial count at 24 h for each patient, as well as patient characteristics, was correlated with clinical outcomes using logistic regression. The in vivo fitness was the most important factor for change in bacterial count. A model‐predicted growth at 24 h of ≥2‐log10 (164/207) correlated positively with clinical failure (adjusted odds ratio, aOR = 2.01). The aOR for one unit increase of other significant predictors were 1.24 for SOFA score, 1.19 for Charlson comorbidity index, and 1.01 for age. This study exemplifies how preclinical and clinical anti‐infective PKPD data can be integrated through pharmacodynamic modeling and identify patient‐ and pathogen‐specific factors related to clinical outcomes – an approach that may improve understanding of study outcomes.
Historical and contemporary climate jointly determine angiosperm plant diversity patterns across east Eurasia
Authors: Song Wenqi , Li Yichao , Luo Ao , Su Xiangyan , Wang Qinggang , Liu Yunpeng , Lyu Tong , Chen Yongsheng , Peng Shijia , Sandanov Denis , Wang Zhiheng
Published: July 2024

Mechanisms underlying large‐scale spatial patterns of species richness are one of the central issues in ecology. Although contemporary climate, evolutionary history, and historical climate change have been proposed as drivers of species richness patterns, variation in the relative importance of different factors remains a major challenge. Here, using newly compiled distribution data with a spatial resolution of 100 × 100 km for 43 023 angiosperms plant species in east Eurasia, we mapped species richness patterns for plants with different growth forms (i.e. woody versus herbaceous) and range sizes (i.e. wide‐ranged versus narrow‐ranged species), and compared the relative importance of the four hypotheses in explaining these patterns, i.e. freezing tolerance hypothesis, historical climate change hypothesis, Janzen's hypothesis (predicting that climate seasonality and topography determine species richness patterns), and diversification rate hypothesis. We found that species richness of all angiosperm plants presented a clear latitudinal gradient and was highest in southwestern China and Central Asian mountains. Notably, species richness patterns and their dominant drivers differed between species groups. Historical climate change was the dominant driver for richness patterns of all and herbaceous species. The freezing tolerance hypothesis dominated the drivers for all woody species, while Janzen's hypothesis dominated narrow‐ranged woody and herbaceous species. Our study suggests that different hypotheses contribute to large‐scale plant richness patterns via their effects on different plant groups. Our results did not support the diversification rate hypothesis, but demonstrated the high importance of historical climate change to plant diversity in east Eurasia, providing new perspectives on the mechanisms of plant diversity patterns in this continent.
Human primary cells can tell body time: Dedicated to Steven A. Brown
Authors: Katsioudi Georgia , Biancolin Andrew D. , Jiménez‐Sanchez Cecilia , Dibner Charna
Published: July 2024

The field of chronobiology has advanced significantly since ancient observations of natural rhythms. The intricate molecular architecture of circadian clocks, their hierarchical organization within the mammalian body, and their pivotal roles in organ physiology highlight the complexity and significance of these internal timekeeping mechanisms. In humans, circadian phenotypes exhibit considerable variability among individuals and throughout the individual's lifespan. A fundamental challenge in mechanistic studies of human chronobiology arises from the difficulty of conducting serial sampling from most organs. The concept of studying circadian clocks in vitro relies on the groundbreaking discovery by Ueli Schibler and colleagues that nearly every cell in the body harbours autonomous molecular oscillators. The advent of circadian bioluminescent reporters has provided a new perspective for this approach, enabling high‐resolution continuous measurements of cell‐autonomous clocks in cultured cells, following in vitro synchronization pulse. The work by Steven A. Brown has provided compelling evidence that clock characteristics assessed in primary mouse and human skin fibroblasts cultured in vitro represent a reliable estimation of internal clock properties in vivo. The in vitro approach for studying molecular human clocks in cultured explants and primary cells, pioneered by Steve Brown, represents an invaluable tool for assessing inter‐individual differences in circadian characteristics alongside comprehensive genetic, biochemical and functional analyses. In a broader context, this reliable and minimally invasive approach offers a unique perspective for unravelling the functional inputs and outputs of oscillators operative in nearly any human tissue in physiological contexts and across various pathologies.
Determinants of adherence to post‐stroke/transient ischemic attack secondary prevention medications: A cohort study
Authors: Hoarau Damien , Ramos Inès , Termoz Anne , Fernandez Violaine , Rambure Marie , Allemann Samuel S. , Derex Laurent , Haesebaert Julie , Schott Anne‐Marie , Viprey Marie
Published: July 2024

Background

Adherence to post‐stroke secondary prevention medications mitigates recurrence risk. This study aimed to measure adherence to secondary prevention medications during 3 years post‐ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack, using prescription and dispensing data, and identify factors associated with suboptimal adherence.

Methods

This multicenter, prospective, cohort study involved patients from the STROKE 69 cohort, which included all consecutive patients with suspected acute stroke admitted between November 2015 and December 2016 to any emergency department or stroke center in the Rhône area in France. Prescription data for antihypertensive agents, antidiabetic agents, lipid‐lowering drugs, and antithrombotics were collected. Dispensing data were provided by the French regional reimbursement database. Adherence was calculated using the continuous medication acquisition index. Associations between suboptimal adherence and potential influencing factors across the World Health Organization's five dimensions were explored through univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

From 1512 eligible patients, 365 were included. Optimal adherence to overall treatment (≥90%) was observed in 61%, 62%, and 65% of patients in the first, second, and third years, respectively. Education level (high school diploma or higher: OR = 3.24, 95% CI [1.49; 7.36]) and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale–Depression scores 8–10: OR = 1.90, 95% CI [1.05; 3.44]) were significantly associated with suboptimal adherence.

Conclusions

Overall adherence to secondary prevention medications was fairly good. Having an initial diagnosis of transient ischemic attack, a high level of education, or depression was associated with increased odds of suboptimal adherence, while having a history of heart rhythm disorder was associated with lower odds.
Energy characteristics and damage constitutive model of pre‐cracked granite with or without filling materials
Authors: Tan Tao , Zhang Chunyang , Dai Bibo , Wang Yixian
Published: July 2024

In order to study the effects of pre‐crack inclination angle and filling material on granite, uniaxial compression tests were performed on pre‐cracked granite specimens without filling material and specimens filled with epoxy resin, gypsum, and organosilicon. Results indicate that the peak strength and apparent stiffness of pre‐cracked granite without filling materials increase with increasing pre‐crack inclination angle. The strain energy absorbed by the filling material improves the energy storage limit, inhibits the energy release effect when microcracks are connected to each other, and ultimately improves the compressive resistance and energy storage capacity. The strengthening effect of gypsum and epoxy resin is relatively better, which is more significant when the pre‐crack inclination angle equals 0°–60°. Finally, a damage constitutive model is established, which is in good agreement with the test and numerical simulation data. The results can provide reference for the research of grouting reinforcement of rock masses.