bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of maternal age and environmental enrichment on learning ability and brain size
Authors: Álvarez-Quintero Náyade , Kim Sin-Yeon 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
It is well known that maternal age at reproduction affects offspring lifespan and some other fitness-related traits, but it remains understudied whether maternal senescence affects how offspring respond to their environments. Early environment often plays a significant role in the development of an animal’s behavioral phenotype. For example, complex environments can promote changes in cognitive ability and brain morphology in young animals. Here, we study whether and how maternal effect senescence influences offspring plasticity in cognition, group behavior, and brain morphology in response to environmental complexity. For this, juvenile 3-spined sticklebacks from young and old mothers (i.e. 1-yr and 2-yr-old) were exposed to different levels of environmental enrichment and complexity (i.e. none, simple, and complex), and their behavior, cognitive ability, and brain size were measured. Exposing fish to enriched conditions improved individual learning ability assessed by a repeated detour-reaching task, increased the size of the whole brain, and decreased aggressive interactions in the shoal. Maternal age did not influence the inhibitory control, learning ability, and group behavioral responses of offspring to the experimental environmental change. However, maternal age affected how some brain regions of offspring changed in response to environmental complexity. In offspring from old mothers, those exposed to the complex environment had larger telencephalons and cerebellums than those who experienced simpler environments. Our results suggest that maternal effect senescence may influence how offspring invest in brain functions related to cognition in response to environmental complexity.
LogicGep: Boolean networks inference using symbolic regression from time-series transcriptomic profiling data
Authors: Zhang Dezhen , Gao Shuhua , Liu Zhi-Ping , Gao Rui 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Reconstructing the topology of gene regulatory network from gene expression data has been extensively studied. With the abundance functional transcriptomic data available, it is now feasible to systematically decipher regulatory interaction dynamics in a logic form such as a Boolean network (BN) framework, which qualitatively indicates how multiple regulators aggregated to affect a common target gene. However, inferring both the network topology and gene interaction dynamics simultaneously is still a challenging problem since gene expression data are typically noisy and data discretization is prone to information loss. We propose a new method for BN inference from time-series transcriptional profiles, called LogicGep. LogicGep formulates the identification of Boolean functions as a symbolic regression problem that learns the Boolean function expression and solve it efficiently through multi-objective optimization using an improved gene expression programming algorithm. To avoid overly emphasizing dynamic characteristics at the expense of topology structure ones, as traditional methods often do, a set of promising Boolean formulas for each target gene is evolved firstly, and a feed-forward neural network trained with continuous expression data is subsequently employed to pick out the final solution. We validated the efficacy of LogicGep using multiple datasets including both synthetic and real-world experimental data. The results elucidate that LogicGep adeptly infers accurate BN models, outperforming other representative BN inference algorithms in both network topology reconstruction and the identification of Boolean functions. Moreover, the execution of LogicGep is hundreds of times faster than other methods, especially in the case of large network inference.
Exploring edge effects on pollination syndromes in dry forests: implications for conservation strategies
Authors: Baronio Gudryan J , Barreto Laís Leite , Cardoso João Custódio Fernandes , Silva Thaís Virginia Fidelis e , Leite Ana Virgínia de Lima , Santos André Maurício Melo , Castro Cibele Cardoso 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Dry forests face significant threats due to human activities, including habitat fragmentation, leading to edge effects that alter microclimatic conditions and species composition. This study evaluates the impact of edge effects on pollination syndromes in a Caatinga dry forest in Brazil. Fieldwork conducted between 2012 and 2013 recorded woody plant species and their pollinators, along with floral traits. Results reveal melittophily as the dominant syndrome, with significant differences in floral traits across syndromes, notably flower colour and shape. Distance from the forest edge did not significantly affect pollinator syndrome richness or abundance, except for a negative relationship with generalist species richness and total abundance. This underscores the importance of considering edge proximity in conservation strategies. The study emphasizes the critical need to incorporate edge dynamics into dry forest management to safeguard ecological functions and services, particularly in maintaining plant–pollinator interactions. Understanding how edge effects influence pollination syndromes is vital for effective conservation, highlighting the importance of continued research into floral responses to edge effects for protecting vulnerable species and habitats in dry forests.
Leveraging the adolescent brain cognitive development study to improve behavioral prediction from neuroimaging in smaller replication samples
Authors: Makowski Carolina , Brown Timothy T , Zhao Weiqi , Hagler Jr Donald J , Parekh Pravesh , Garavan Hugh , Nichols Thomas E , Jernigan Terry L , Dale Anders M 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Neuroimaging is a popular method to map brain structural and functional patterns to complex human traits. Recently published observations cast doubt upon these prospects, particularly for prediction of cognitive traits from structural and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We leverage baseline data from thousands of children in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive DevelopmentSM Study to inform the replication sample size required with univariate and multivariate methods across different imaging modalities to detect reproducible brain-behavior associations. We demonstrate that by applying multivariate methods to high-dimensional brain imaging data, we can capture lower dimensional patterns of structural and functional brain architecture that correlate robustly with cognitive phenotypes and are reproducible with only 41 individuals in the replication sample for working memory-related functional MRI, and ~ 100 subjects for structural and resting state MRI. Even with 100 random re-samplings of 100 subjects in discovery, prediction can be adequately powered with 66 subjects in replication for multivariate prediction of cognition with working memory task functional MRI. These results point to an important role for neuroimaging in translational neurodevelopmental research and showcase how findings in large samples can inform reproducible brain-behavior associations in small sample sizes that are at the heart of many research programs and grants.
Hepatitis B–CpG Vaccine Series for Healthcare Workers Who Are Hepatitis B Vaccine Nonresponders
Authors: Russ Rachel K , Vandehei Haley M , Golovkina Maria I , Mogallapalli Harshitha , Caldera Freddy , Hayney Mary S 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This prospective study enrolled healthcare workers (HCWs) who were nonresponders following at least 5 doses of aluminum-adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine who received the 2-dose Heplisav-B (HepB-CpG) (Dynavax Technologies Corporation, Emeryville, CA) series. After 2 doses of HepB-CpG, 43/47 (91%) participants, and with 1 dose, 41/49 (84%) responded. HepB-CpG could be the preferred vaccine in HCW nonresponders.
Clinical Trials Registration. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04456504.
AI-powered automated item generation for language testing
Authors: Shin Dongkwang , Lee Jang Ho 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Although automated item generation has gained a considerable amount of attention in a variety of fields, it is still a relatively new technology in ELT contexts. Therefore, the present article aims to provide an accessible introduction to this powerful resource for language teachers based on a review of the available research. Particularly, it will give a brief introduction to different types of automated item generation approaches, provide a summary of previous ELT studies on this technology, and introduce three different AI-powered tools, along with practical tips for ELT practitioners. We conclude by calling for more empirical research on automated item generation from the ELT community and encouraging language teachers to take an interest in this technology themselves.
Characterization and distribution of a 14-Mb chromosomal inversion in native populations of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Hale Matthew C , Pearse Devon E , Campbell Matthew A 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Multiple studies in a range of taxa have found links between structural variants and the development of ecologically important traits. Such variants are becoming easier to find due, in large part, to the increase in the amount of genome-wide sequence data in nonmodel organisms. The salmonids (salmon, trout, and charr) are a taxonomic group with abundant genome-wide datasets due to their importance in aquaculture, fisheries, and variation in multiple ecologically important life-history traits. Previous research on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) has documented a large pericentric (∼55 Mb) chromosomal inversion (CI) on chromosome 5 (Omy05) and a second smaller (∼14 Mb) chromosome inversion on Omy20. While the Omy05 inversion appears to be associated with multiple adaptive traits, the inversion on Omy20 has received far less attention. In this study, we re-analyze RAD-seq and amplicon data from several populations of rainbow trout (O. mykiss) to better document the structure and geographic distribution of variation in the Omy20 CI. Moreover, we utilize phylogenomic techniques to characterize both the age- and the protein-coding gene content of the Omy20 CI. We find that the age of the Omy20 inversion dates to the early stages of O. mykiss speciation and predates the Omy05 inversion by ∼450,000 years. The 2 CIs differ further in terms of the frequency of the homokaryotypes. While both forms of the Omy05 CI are found across the eastern Pacific, the ancestral version of the Omy20 CI is restricted to the southern portion of the species range in California. Furthermore, the Omy20 inverted haplotype is comparable in genetic diversity to the ancestral form, whereas derived CIs typically show substantially reduced genetic diversity. These data contribute to our understanding of the age and distribution of a large CI in rainbow trout and provide a framework for researchers looking to document CIs in other nonmodel species.
The expression of congenital Shoc2 variants induces AKT-dependent crosstalk activation of the ERK1/2 pathway
Authors: Wilson Patricia G , Abdelmoti Lina , Gao Tianyan , Galperin Emilia 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
The Shoc2 scaffold protein is crucial in transmitting signals within the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR)-mediated Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinase (ERK1/2) pathway. While the significance of Shoc2 in this pathway is well-established, the precise mechanisms through which Shoc2 governs signal transmission remain to be fully elucidated. Hereditary variants in Shoc2 are responsible for Noonan Syndrome with Loose anagen Hair (NSLH). However, due to the absence of known enzymatic activity in Shoc2, directly assessing how these variants affect its function is challenging. ERK1/2 phosphorylation is used as a primary parameter of Shoc2 function, but the impact of Shoc2 mutants on the pathway activation is unclear. This study investigates how the NSLH-associated Shoc2 variants influence EGFR signals in the context of the ERK1/2 and AKT downstream signaling pathways. We show that when the ERK1/2 pathway is a primary signaling pathway activated downstream of EGFR, Shoc2 variants cannot upregulate ERK1/2 phosphorylation to the level of the WT Shoc2. Yet, when the AKT and ERK1/2 pathways were activated, in cells expressing Shoc2 variants, ERK1/2 phosphorylation was higher than in cells expressing WT Shoc2. In cells expressing the Shoc2 NSLH mutants, we found that the AKT signaling pathway triggers the PAK activation, followed by phosphorylation of Raf-1/MEK1/2 and activation of the ERK1/2 signaling axis. Hence, our studies reveal a previously unrecognized feedback regulation downstream of the EGFR and provide additional evidence for the role of Shoc2 as a “gatekeeper” in controlling the selection of downstream effectors within the EGFR signaling network.
Foreign travellers in Milan and their interests
Authors: Squizzato Alessandra , Tunesi Lorenzo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
This article reviews the presence and movements of foreign travellers in Milan in the mid-nineteenth century, focusing on the cultural context of art collecting. Perceptions of the Milan region abroad are examined through a number of guides and illustrated digests aimed at foreign visitors and produced by local publishers such as Giovanni Pietro Giegler, Ferdinando Artaria, Bettalli and Vallardi. Along with the main landmarks, the importance of private palaces and their art galleries has also been researched. Among them are locations associated with some established names (the Archinto, Litta, Borromeo and Trivulzio families), as well as new entries such as the Poldi Pezzoli family. The sections of guidebooks devoted to the city’s antiquarian market were particularly significant within these publications, a study of which helps us to understand the unexpected dynamics of some emerging antique dealers’ careers. Emphasis is placed on case-studies, notably the important and remarkable example of Alfonso Reichmann, whose family owned a famous hotel at Porta Romana. Reichmann successfully engaged in the domestic and international art trade, dealing with foreign museums as well as with Italian institutions and collectors, including Gian Giacomo Poldi Pezzoli.
Divergent ecological selection maintains species boundaries despite gene flow in a rare endemic tree, Quercus acerifolia (maple-leaf oak)
Authors: Wu Yingtong , Linan Alexander G , Hoban Sean , Hipp Andrew L , Ricklefs Robert E 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Strong gene flow from outcrossing relatives tends to blur species boundaries, while divergent ecological selection can counteract gene flow. To better understand how these two forces affect the maintenance of species boundaries, we focused on a species complex including a rare species, maple-leaf oak (Quercus acerifolia), which is found in only four disjunct ridges in Arkansas. Its limited range and geographic proximity to co-occurring close relatives create the possibility for genetic swamping. In this study, we gathered genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using restriction-site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) from 190 samples of Q. acerifolia and three of its close relatives, Q. shumardii, Q. buckleyi, and Q. rubra. We found that Q. shumardii and Q. acerifolia are reciprocally monophyletic with low support, suggesting incomplete lineage sorting, introgression between Q. shumardii and Q. acerifolia, or both. Analyses that model allele distributions demonstrate that admixture contributes strongly to this pattern. Populations of Q. acerifolia experience gene flow from Q. shumardii and Q. rubra, but we found evidence that divergent selection is likely maintaining species boundaries: 1) ex situ collections of Q. acerifolia have a higher proportion of hybrids compared to the mature trees of the wild populations, suggesting ecological selection against hybrids at the seed/seedling stage; 2) ecological traits co-vary with genomic composition; and 3) Q. acerifolia shows genetic differentiation at loci hypothesized to influence tolerance of radiation, drought, and high temperature. Our findings strongly suggest that in maple-leaf oak, selection results in higher divergence at regions of the genome despite gene flow from close relatives.
Increased allergic inflammation and decreased lung insulin sensitivity in offspring of obese allergic mothers
Authors: Damron Christopher Luke , Bloodworth Jeffrey C , Hoji Aki , Casasnovas Jose , Kua Kok Lim , Cook-Mills Joan M 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Epidemiological studies demonstrate that maternal obesity and maternal allergy are major risk factors for asthma in offspring. However, the impact of maternal allergy and obesity on offspring lung insulin signaling and allergen responsiveness is not known. To evaluate this, allergic and nonallergic female mice were fed a high-fat diet or low-fat diet from 7 wk before pregnancy until weaning. Neonatal pups were allergen-sensitized and allergen-challenged and then were assessed for obesity, insulin signaling, and allergic inflammation. Compared with pups of nonobese nonallergic mothers, allergen-challenged pups of obese nonallergic mothers, nonobese allergic mothers, and obese allergic mothers had bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) eosinophilia, with the pups of obese allergic mothers having the highest BAL eosinophilia. These pups also had lower insulin-induced lung AKT phosphorylation, indicating a decrease in lung parenchymal insulin sensitivity. In cross-fostering experiments, allergen-challenged pups exposed to both pre- and postnatal obese allergic mothers had the highest level of BAL eosinophilia. Maternal obesity or allergy increased offspring serum allergen-specific IgE and interleukin-5 that was highest when the mother was both obese and allergic. Also, allergen-challenged pups exposed to both pre- and postnatal obese allergic mothers had the highest level of interleukin-5. In summary, offspring born to obese allergic mothers have decreased lung insulin sensitivity and increased lung allergic inflammation. Interestingly, our data also demonstrate that there is both a pregnancy and postpregnancy aspect of maternal allergy and obesity that enhances allergen responsiveness in offspring.
(020) USE AND PERCEIVED IMPACT OF CANNABIS ON ORGASM IN POST MENOPAUSE WOMEN
Authors: Streicher L 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction
55% of post-menopause women experience orgasmic dysfunction as a result of aging, vasculopathy, neuropathy, medications, and medical comorbidities. Orgasmic dysfunction can also be a downstream consequence of dyspareunia, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, and symptoms of menopause such as vasomotor symptoms and insomnia. There are no FDA-approved treatments for the treatment of FOD. At least one in four post-menopause women use cannabis, however, the frequency, route of consumption, and perceived efficacy of cannabis to facilitate orgasm in this population has not been studied.

Objective
To determine the frequency, route of consumption, and perceived efficacy use of cannabis to facilitate orgasm in a peri and post-menopause population.

Methods
Women self-described as peri- or post-menopause, who currently or had recently used cannabis for relief of specific menopause symptoms, were recruited via social media and invited to complete an online survey. For each symptom, respondents were asked about the route(s) of consumption, and the perception of efficacy.

Results
451 women responded to the survey. Of those women, 85 (29.9%) stated they used cannabis specifically to help with orgasm. Overall, 70% stated “it helped them orgasm”, 24.4% stated, “It helped a little” and 5.6% stated, “It did not help”. Smoke or Vape: 52.8% Yes, it helped- 78.7% It helped a little-17% It did not help-4.3% Edibles: 37.1% Yes, it helped-61%% It helped a little-33% It did not help- 6.1 % Local application to genitals: 6.7% Yes, it helped 66.7% It helped a little 33.3% It did not help- 0% Tinctures or lozenges: 3.4% Yes, it helped-66.7% It helped a little -33% It did not help- 0%

Conclusions
Theoretically, cannabis may facilitate post-menopause orgasm due to its known vasodilation and anti-inflammatory properties. Studying the efficacy of cannabis for the relief of specific symptoms is challenging since pharmacology is complex and dictated by variables such as route of consumption, product strain, genetics, sex, age, medical co-morbidities, medications, and concomitant use of estrogen. In addition, one cannot count on the same level of consistency with individual products as with a commercial pharmaceutical. The perception of relief of symptoms is high, however, the impact of a placebo effect and the actual efficacy of individual practices cannot be determined given the above variables. The majority of women in the survey used edibles or inhalation, which may not be the most efficacious route of consumption to facilitate clitoral sensitivity. A larger population of women using direct application of cannabis to the clitoris would be useful. This study confirms the wide use of cannabis use in the menopause population specifically to facilitate orgasm and is useful in not only understanding current practices but will also inform the design of future studies.

Disclosure
Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Sermonix.
Mediator complex: an important regulator of root system architecture
Authors: Agrawal Rekha , Thakur Pallabi , Singh Amrita , Panchal Poonam , Thakur Jitendra Kumar 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Mediator, a multiprotein complex, is an important component of the transcription machinery. In plants, the latest studies have established that it functions as a signal processor that conveys transcriptional signals from transcription factors to RNA polymerase II. Mediator has been found to be involved in different developmental and stress-adaptation conditions, ranging from embryo, root, and shoot development to flowering and senescence, and also in responses to different biotic and abiotic stresses. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in understanding the role of Mediator subunits in root development. They have been shown to transcriptionally regulate development of almost all the components of the root system architecture—primary root, lateral roots, and root hairs. They also have a role in nutrient acquisition by the root. In this review, we discuss all the known functions of Mediator subunits during root development. We also highlight the role of Mediator as a nodal point for processing different hormone signals that regulate root morphogenesis and growth.