bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prey selection by black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes): implications for intersexual resource partitioning and conservation
Authors: Biggins Dean E , Eads David A , Ramakrishnan Shantini , Goldberg Amanda R , Eads Samantha L , Hardin Joanna , Konkel Darla 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Intraspecific resource partitioning may play a critical role in how predators optimize prey selection. The Black-footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes; henceforth, ferret) is a highly specialized predator of prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.; henceforth, PDs). Adult ferrets are sexually dimorphic and PDs are of similar size making them a difficult prey item. PD young are born 6 to 8 weeks prior to births of ferrets, producing a crop of smaller prey items during a period when energetic needs of female ferrets are highest. We asked whether relatively small female ferrets select small PDs as prey. We examined survival rates from early to late summer for large and small black-tailed PDs (Cynomys ludovicianus) in Montana and South Dakota as a function of their distance to adult male and female ferrets using capture–mark–recapture of PDs and simultaneous summer monitoring of ferret locations. Survival of small PDs (&lt;600 g) was low when a female ferret was nearby, but distance to nearest female ferret did not affect survival of large PDs. Distance to the nearest male ferret did not influence survival regardless of PD size. Reduced competition from males for a critical food resource needed by females rearing young would benefit fitness of both sexes. If female ferrets depend on young PDs during their reproductive period, existing habitat models may substantially overestimate ferret carrying capacity.
Culex erraticus (Diptera: Culicidae) utilizes gopher tortoise burrows for overwintering in North Central Florida
Authors: McNamara Timothy D , Mosore Mba-tihssommah , Urlaub Alexander , Lashley Marcus A , Burkett-Cadena Nathan D , Reeves Lawrence E , Martin Estelle M 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Mosquito-borne diseases represent a significant threat to human and animal health in the United States. Several viruses, including West Nile, Saint Louis encephalitis, and Eastern equine encephalitis are endemic. In humans, the disease is typically detected during the summer months, but not during the winter months. The ability of these viruses to reemerge year after year is still not fully understood, but typically involves persistence in a reservoir host or vector during periods of low transmission. Mosquito species are known to overwinter at different life stages (adults, larvae, or eggs) in manufactured or natural sites. Gopher tortoise burrows are known to serve as refuge for many vertebrate and invertebrate species in pine savannas. In this study, we surveyed the interior of gopher tortoise burrows for overwintering mosquitoes. We identified 4 species (Anopheles crucians s.l., Culex erraticus, Mansonia dyari, and Uranotaenia sapphirina). Cx. erraticus was the most abundant, and its presence and abundance increased in winter months, implying that this species utilized gopher tortoise burrows for overwintering. Bloodfed Cx. erraticus and An. crucians s.l. females were detected. While An. crucians s.l. fed exclusively on the white-tailed deer, Cx. erraticus had a more diverse host range but fed primarily on the gopher tortoise. Tortoises and other long-lived reptiles like the American alligator have been shown to sustain high viremia following West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) infection and therefore could play a role in the maintenance of these viruses. In addition, Cx. erraticus is naturally infected with WNV and is a known bridge vector for EEEV. As such, these overwintering sites may play a role in perpetuating over-winter arboviral activity in Florida.
Society, Social Structures, and Community in Clinical Ethics
Authors: Parker J Clint 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Society and social structures play an important role in the formation and evaluation of concepts and practices in clinical ethics. This is evident in the ways the authors in this issue explore a wide range of arguments and concepts in clinical ethics including moral distress and conscience based practice, phenomenological interview techniques and gender dysphoria, continuous deep sedation (CDS) at the end of life, the notion of patient expertise, ethically permissible medical billing practices, the notion of selfhood and patient centered care in dementia patients, and the definition of minimal risk as used in research regulations.
A pilot, single-arm feasibility study of an integrated cognitive-behavioral treatment for anxiety in young autistic children
Authors: Keefer Amy , Perrin Jeremy , Singh Vini , Holingue Calliope , Winchell Sarah , Vasa Roma A 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective
Anxiety is prevalent in young autistic children under 7 years of age. Yet there is a paucity of empirically based interventions for this age group. DINO Strategies for Anxiety and Uncertainty Reduction (DINOSAUR) is an innovative cognitive behavioral intervention that seeks to optimize treatment response in young autistic children by targeting anxiety and the contributing mechanisms of intolerance of uncertainty and parental accommodation using a telehealth delivery model. This pilot, single-arm study examines the preliminary feasibility of DINOSAUR.

Methods
Fourteen autistic children ages 4–6 years with average language and cognitive skills and their parents received the intervention. Quantitative and qualitative data pertaining to parent satisfaction and treatment outcomes were collected.

Results
Attendance, retention, and parent satisfaction ratings offer preliminary support for the feasibility of the treatment model. Change in clinical severity ratings on a semi-structured parent interview of anxiety and parents’ qualitative report suggests the potential to benefit young autistic children.

Conclusions
Results support future study of the DINOSAUR model in a larger, randomized controlled trial.
College of American Pathologists Quality Cross Check —Chemistry and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring as a tool for biannual instrument correlations
Authors: Pater Megan S , Hernandez Júlia A , Wiencek Joesph R 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Biannual instrument-correlation studies are required for nonwaived assays performed on multiple instruments.

Objective
To determine the feasibility of using College of American Pathologists (CAP) Quality Cross Check—Chemistry and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (CZQ) to assess instrument correlations among multiple analyzers, analyzer models, and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) licenses for 55 unique analytes.

Methods
Instrument correlation studies were performed on 9 Abbott ARCHITECT instruments (c4000 [n = 4], c8000 [n = 2], and c16000 [n = 3]) over 3 CLIA licenses using CZQ materials. The mean (SD) values, concentration difference, percent bias, and peer data for each individual level of CZQ were determined for each individual analyzer. Acceptable concentration and percentage for each analyte were set using criteria from CAP or other reputable sources such as the American Association of Bioanalysts or the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia. Peer data were provided by CAP with the CZQ kit.

Results
Correlations using CZQ materials showed that 94.5% of assays studied were within the acceptability criteria by percent bias only and 98.2% were within acceptability criteria by concentration difference.

Conclusions
The use of CZQ provides support to standardized correlation studies among instruments within and across separate CLIA licenses. However, widespread adoption of CZQ may be limited due to concerns regarding matrix effects, analyte ranges, and ease of data analysis.
Prediction of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels using machine learning methods
Authors: Kim Yoori , Lee Won Kyung , Lee Woojoo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) has been commonly calculated by equations, but their performance has not been entirely satisfactory. This study aimed to develop a more accurate LDL-C prediction model using machine learning methods.

Methods
The study involved predicting directly measured LDL-C, using individual characteristics, lipid profiles, and other laboratory results as predictors. The models applied to predict LDL-C values were multiple regression, penalized regression, random forest, and XGBoost. Additionally, a novel 2-step prediction model was developed and introduced. The machine learning methods were evaluated against the Friedewald, Martin, and Sampson equations.

Results
The Friedewald, Martin, and Sampson equations had root mean squared error (RMSE) values of 12.112, 8.084, and 8.492, respectively, whereas the 2-step prediction model showed the highest accuracy, with an RMSE of 7.015. The LDL-C levels were also classified as a categorical variable according to the diagnostic criteria of the dyslipidemia treatment guideline, and concordance rates were calculated between the predictive values obtained from each method and the directly measured ones. The 2-step prediction model had the highest concordance rate (85.1%).

Conclusion
The machine learning method can calculate LDL-C more accurately than existing equations. The proposed 2-step prediction model, in particular, outperformed the other machine learning methods.
Multi-epoch sampling of the radio star population with the Australian SKA Pathfinder
Authors: Pritchard Joshua , Murphy Tara , Heald George , Wheatland Michael S , Kaplan David L , Lenc Emil , O’Brien Andrew , Wang Ziteng 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT
The population of radio-loud stars has to date been studied primarily through either targeted observations of a small number of highly active stars or wide-field, single-epoch surveys that cannot easily distinguish stellar emission from background extragalactic sources. As a result it has been difficult to constrain population statistics such as the surface density and fraction of the population producing radio emission in a particular variable or spectral class. In this paper, we present a sample of 36 radio stars detected in a circular polarization search of the multi-epoch Variables and Slow Transients (VAST) pilot survey with ASKAP at 887.5 MHz. Through repeat sampling of the VAST pilot survey footprint we find an upper limit to the duty cycle of M-dwarf radio bursts of $8.5 \,\rm {per\,cent}$, and that at least 10 ± 3 $\rm {per\,cent}$ of the population should produce radio bursts more luminous than $10^{15} \,\rm {erg}\mathrm{s}^{-1} \,\mathrm{Hz}^{-1}$. We infer a lower limit on the long-term surface density of such bursts in a shallow $1.25 \,\mathrm{m}\rm {Jy}\rm\ {PSF}^{-1}$ sensitivity survey of ${9}^{\, +{11}}_{-{7}}\times 10^{-3}$ $\,\deg ^{-2}$ and an instantaneous radio star surface density of 1.7 ± 0.2 × 10−3 $\,\deg ^{-2}$ on 12 min time-scales. Based on these rates we anticipate ∼200 ± 50 new radio star detections per year over the full VAST survey and ${41\, 000}^{\, +{10\, 000}}_{-{9\, 000}}$ in next-generation all-sky surveys with the Square Kilometre Array.
VINTERGATAN-GM: How do mergers affect the satellite populations of MW-like galaxies?
Authors: Joshi Gandhali D , Pontzen Andrew , Agertz Oscar , Rey Martin P , Read Justin , Renaud Florent 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT
We investigate the impact of a galaxy’s merger history on its system of satellites using the new vintergatan-gm suite of zoom-in hydrodynamical simulations of Milky Way-mass systems. The suite simulates five realizations of the same halo with targeted ‘genetic modifications’ of a z ≈ 2 merger, but resulting in the same halo mass at z = 0. We find that differences in the satellite stellar mass functions last for 2.25−4.25 Gyr after the z ≈ 2 merger; specifically, the haloes that have undergone smaller mergers host up to 60 per cent more satellites than those of the larger merger scenarios. However, by z = 0 these differences in the satellite stellar mass functions have been erased. The differences in satellite numbers seen soon after the mergers are driven by several factors, including the timings of significant mergers (with M200c mass ratios &gt;1:30 and bringing in M* ≥ 108 M⊙ at infall), the masses and satellite populations of the central and merging systems, and the subsequent extended history of smaller mergers. The results persist when measured at fixed central stellar mass rather than fixed time, implying that a host’s recent merger history can be a significant source of scatter when reconstructing its dynamical properties from its satellite population.
On the dust properties of the UV galaxies in the redshift range z ∼ 0.6–1.2
Authors: Sharma M , Page M J , Symeonidis M , Ferreras I 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT
Far-infrared observations from the Herschel Space Observatory are used to estimate the infrared (IR) properties of ultraviolet-selected galaxies. We stack the PACS (100, 160 $\mu$m) and SPIRE (250, 350, and 500 $\mu$m) maps of the Chandra deep field south (CDFS) on a source list of galaxies selected in the rest-frame ultraviolet (UV) in a redshift range of 0.6–1.2. This source list is created using observations from the XMM–OM telescope survey in the CDFS using the UVW1 (2910 Å) filter. The stacked data are binned according to the UV luminosity function of these sources, and the average photometry of the UV-selected galaxies is estimated. By fitting modified black bodies and IR model templates to the stacked photometry, average dust temperatures and total IR luminosity are determined. The luminosity-weighted average temperatures are consistent with a weak trend of increasing temperature with redshift found by previous studies. Infrared excess, unobscured, and obscured star formation rate (SFR) values are obtained from the UV and IR luminosities. We see a trend in which dust attenuation increases as UV luminosity decreases. It remains constant as a function of IR luminosities at fixed redshift across the luminosity range of our sources. In comparison to local luminous infrared galaxies with similar SFRs, the higher redshift star-forming galaxies in the sample show a lesser degree of dust attenuation. Finally, the inferred dust attenuation is used to correct the unobscured SFR density in the redshift range 0.6–1.2. The dust-corrected SFR density is consistent with measurements from IR-selected samples at similar redshifts.
In-situ synthesis of quantum dots in the nucleus of live cells
Authors: Hu Yusi , Wang Zhi-Gang , Fu Haohao , Zhou Chuanzheng , Cai Wensheng , Shao Xueguang , Liu Shu-Lin , Pang Dai-Wen 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT
The cell nucleus is the main site for the storage and replication of genetic material, and the synthesis of substances in the nucleus is rhythmic, regular and strictly regulated by physiological processes. However, whether exogenous substances, such as nanoparticles, can be synthesized in situ in the nucleus of live cells has not been reported. Here, we have achieved in-situ synthesis of CdSxSe1−x quantum dots (QDs) in the nucleus by regulation of the glutathione (GSH) metabolic pathway. High enrichment of GSH in the nucleus can be accomplished by the addition of GSH with the help of the Bcl-2 protein. Then, high-valence Se is reduced to low-valence Se by glutathione-reductase-catalyzed GSH, and interacts with the Cd precursor formed through Cd and thiol-rich proteins, eventually generating QDs in the nucleus. Our work contributes to a new understanding of the syntheses of substances in the cell nucleus and will pave the way for the development of advanced ‘supercells’.
Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators to Reducing Exposure to Secondhand Smoke in the Home: A Qualitative Study With Palestinian–Arab Women in Israel
Authors: Agbaria Nisreen , Finkelstein Adi , Zwas Donna R , Daoud Nihaya 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Smoking is a collective and complex problem in the Palestinian–Arab community in Israel, where women and children are particularly vulnerable to exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS), especially in the home.

Aims and Methods
We undertook this study to better understand women’s experiences with SHS exposure in the home and to identify pathways for intervention. Using the grounded theory approach, seven focus groups were conducted with 66 women in different localities across Israel. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were applied to recruit women who have currently or previously been exposed to smoking in the home. Focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and data were then coded and analyzed using the constant comparison analysis method to identify emergent themes and subthemes.

Results
Three core themes emerged from the discussions. These include women’s perceptions of smoking among men and exposure to SHS in the home, the implications of smoking on spousal and social relationships, and the women’s experiences in coping with this situation and their suggestions for interventions. We identified additional sub-themes, including the consequences to women’s and children’s health, as well as the complex interaction between smoking in the home and women’s social position, agency, and home ownership.

Conclusions
Women exposed to SHS in the home experience consequences that affect their health and their spousal and social relationships. They also face several personal and societal challenges in tackling this issue. Culturally tailored interventions targeting both communities and households can raise awareness and impact smoking behaviors in the home.

Implications
The findings of this study demonstrate the far-reaching consequences of SHS exposure in the home among women who are exposed. The findings contribute to our understanding of smoking contingencies among men and smoking behaviors in the home. This study lays the groundwork for future community and household-based research and interventions. We suggest several critical junctures that may increase response to smoking cessation interventions and to reduce smoking in the home, such as at the time of marriage when the home policy is set, and the adverse effects of exposure on children and other family members, especially those with illness.
Primary, seminal and lateral roots of maize show type-specific growth and hydraulic responses to water deficit
Authors: Protto Virginia , Bauget Fabrice , Rishmawi Louai , Nacry Philippe , Maurel Christophe 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The water uptake capacity of a root system is determined by its architecture and hydraulic properties, which together shape the root hydraulic architecture. Here, we investigated root responses to water deficit (WD) in seedlings of a maize (Zea mays) hybrid line (B73H) grown in hydroponic conditions, taking into account the primary root (PR), the seminal roots (SR), and their respective lateral roots. WD was induced by various polyethylene glycol concentrations and resulted in dose-dependent inhibitions of axial and lateral root growth, lateral root formation, and hydraulic conductivity (Lpr), with slightly distinct sensitivities to WD between PR and SR. Inhibition of Lpr by WD showed a half-time of 5 to 6 min and was fully (SR) or partially (PR) reversible within 40 min. In the two root types, WD resulted in reduced aquaporin expression and activity, as monitored by mRNA abundance of 13 plasma membrane intrinsic protein (ZmPIP) isoforms and inhibition of Lpr by sodium azide, respectively. An enhanced suberization/lignification of the epi- and exodermis was observed under WD in axial roots and in lateral roots of the PR but not in those of SR. Inverse modeling revealed a steep increase in axial conductance in root tips of PR and SR grown under WD that may be due to the decreased growth rate of axial roots in these conditions. Overall, our work reveals that these root types show quantitative differences in their anatomical, architectural, and hydraulic responses to WD, in terms of sensitivity, amplitude and reversibility. This distinct functionalization may contribute to integrative acclimation responses of whole root systems to soil WD.
The Curious Early History of the Cabibbo–Kobayashi–Maskawa Matrix: Miracles Happen!
Authors: Olsen Stephen Lars 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The 1973 Kobayashi–Maskawa paper proposed a compelling link between Cabibbo’s flavor mixing scheme and ${\mathcal {C}}$${\mathcal {P}}$ violation but, since it required the existence of six quarks at a time when the physics community was happy with only three, it received zero attention. However, two years after the paper appeared—at which time it had received a grand total of two citations—the charmed quark was discovered and it finally got some notice and acceptance. After this stumbling start, it subsequently emerged as the focal point of an enormous amount of experimental and theoretical research activity. In an invited talk at a KEK symposium to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the KM paper, I reviewed some of the less well known circumstances that occurred in the years preceding and following the paper’s appearance. Some spoilers: (i) Kobayashi and Maskawa (and a number of other Japanese physicists) were convinced about the existence of the charmed quark nearly three years before its “discovery” at Brookhaven and SLAC. (ii) The matrix provided in their seminal 1973 paper was mathematically incorrect. Another version that was in common use for the following 12 years was technically correct, but not really a rotation matrix. (iii) The CKM matrix ${\mathcal {C}}$${\mathcal {P}}$ phase was only measurable because of the very specific hierarchy of the flavor mixing angles and meson masses. (iv) Similarly, the neutrino mixing discovery, and the PMNS matrix measurability were only possible because of favorable values of the neutrino mass differences and mixing angles. In addition I include some speculations about what may be in store for the future.
Fe–Zn alloy, a new biodegradable material capable of reducing ROS and inhibiting oxidative stress
Authors: Yang Shuaikang , Wang Weiqiang , Xu Yanan , Yuan Yonghui , Hao Shengzhi 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Fe-based biodegradable materials have attracted significant attention due to their exceptional mechanical properties and favorable biocompatibility. Currently, research on Fe-based materials mainly focuses on regulating the degradation rate. However, excessive release of Fe ions during material degradation will induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and ferroptosis. Therefore, the control of ROS release and the improvement of biocompatibility for Fe-based materials are very important. In this study, new Fe–Zn alloys were prepared by electrodeposition with the intention of using Zn as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative damage during alloy degradation. Initially, the impact of three potential degradation ions (Fe2+, Fe3+, Zn2+) from the Fe–Zn alloy on human endothelial cell (EC) activity and migration ability was investigated. Subsequently, cell adhesion, cell activity, ROS production and DNA damage were assessed at various locations surrounding the alloy. Finally, the influence of different concentrations of Zn2+ in the medium on cell viability and ROS production was evaluated. High levels of ROS exhibited evident toxic effects on ECs and promoted DNA damage. As an antioxidant, Zn2+ effectively reduced ROS production around Fe and improved the cell viability on its surface at a concentration of 0.04 mmol/l. These findings demonstrate that Fe–Zn alloy can attenuate the ROS generated from Fe degradation thereby enhancing cytocompatibility.