bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Genetic architecture of hippocampus subfields volumes in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cai Jiahui , Xiong Weixue , Wang Xueqin , Tan Haizhu ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) Database
Published: February 2023

AbstractBackgroundThe hippocampus is a heterogeneous structure, comprising histologically and functionally distinguishable hippocampal subfields. The volume reductions in hippocampal subfields have been demonstrated to be linked with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim of our study is to investigate the hippocampal subfields' genetic architecture based on the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) data set.MethodsAfter preprocessing the downloaded genetic variants and imaging data from the ADNI database, a co‐sparse reduced rank regression model was applied to analyze the genetic architecture of hippocampal subfields volumes. Homology modeling, docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and Co‐IP experiments for protein–protein interactions were used to verify the function of target protein on hippocampal subfields successively. After that, the association analysis between the candidated genes on the hippocampal subfields volume and clinical scales were performed.ResultsThe results of the association analysis revealed five unique genetic variants (e.g., ubiquitin‐specific protease 10 [USP10]) changed in nine hippocampal subfields (e.g., the granule cell and molecular layer of the dentate gyrus [GC‐ML‐DG]). Among five genetic variants, USP10 had the strongest interaction effect with BACE1, which affected hippocampal subfields verified by MD and Co‐IP experiments. The results of association analysis between the candidated genes on the hippocampal subfields volume and clinical scales showed that candidated genes influenced the volume and function of hippocampal subfields.ConclusionsCurrent evidence suggests that hippocampal subfields have partly distinct genetic architecture and may improve the sensitivity of the detection of AD.
Contrasting ecological information content in whaling archives with modern cetacean surveys for conservation planning and identification of historical distribution changes
Authors: Letessier Tom B. , Mannocci Laura , Goodwin Brittney , Embling Clare , de Vos Asha , Anderson R. Charles , Ingram Simon N. , Rogan Andy , Turvey Samuel T. 
Published: February 2023

AbstractMany species are restricted to a marginal or suboptimal fraction of their historical range due to anthropogenic impacts, making it hard to interpret their ecological preferences from modern‐day data alone. However, inferring past ecological states is limited by the availability of robust data and biases in historical archives, posing a challenge for policy makers . To highlight how historical records can be used to understand the ecological requirements of threatened species and inform conservation, we investigated sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) distribution in the Western Indian Ocean. We assessed differences in information content and habitat suitability predictions based on whale occurrence data from Yankee whaling logs (1792–1912) and from modern cetacean surveys (1995–2020). We built maximum entropy habitat suitability models containing static (bathymetry‐derived) variables to compare models comprising historical‐only and modern‐only data. Using both historical and modern habitat suitability predictions we assessed marine protected area (MPA) placement by contrasting suitability in‐ and outside MPAs. The historical model predicted high habitat suitability in shelf and coastal regions near continents and islands, whereas the modern model predicted a less coastal distribution with high habitat suitability more restricted to areas of steep topography. The proportion of high habitat suitability inside versus outside MPAs was higher when applying the historical predictions than the modern predictions, suggesting that different marine spatial planning optimums can be reached from either data sources. Moreover, differences in relative habitat suitability predictions between eras were consistent with the historical depletion of sperm whales from coastal regions, which were easily accessed and targeted by whalers, resulting in a modern distribution limited more to steep continental margins and remote oceanic ridges. The use of historical data can provide important new insights and, through cautious interpretation, inform conservation planning and policy, for example, by identifying refugee species and regions of anticipated population recovery.
mt‐Ty 5'tiRNA regulates skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Cao Jun , Wang Xin , Advani Vivek , Lu Yao Wei , Malizia Andrea P. , Singh Gurinder Bir , Huang Zhan‐Peng , Liu Jianming , Wang Chunbo , Oliveira Edilamar M. , Mably John D. , Chen Kaifu , Wang Da‐Zhi 
Published: February 2023

AbstractIn this study, we sought to determine the role of tRNA‐derived fragments in the regulation of gene expression during skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation. We employed cell culture to examine the function of mt‐Ty 5’ tiRNAs. Northern blotting, RT‐PCR as well as RNA‐Seq, were performed to determine the effects of mt‐Ty 5’ tiRNA loss and gain on gene expression. Standard and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize cell and sub‐cellular structures. mt‐Ty 5’tiRNAs were found to be enriched in mouse skeletal muscle, showing increased levels in later developmental stages. Gapmer‐mediated inhibition of tiRNAs in skeletal muscle C2C12 myoblasts resulted in decreased cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation; consistent with this observation, RNA‐Seq, transcriptome analyses, and RT‐PCR revealed that skeletal muscle cell differentiation and cell proliferation pathways were also downregulated. Conversely, overexpression of mt‐Ty 5’tiRNAs in C2C12 cells led to a reversal of these transcriptional trends. These data reveal that mt‐Ty 5’tiRNAs are enriched in skeletal muscle and play an important role in myoblast proliferation and differentiation. Our study also highlights the potential for the development of tiRNAs as novel therapeutic targets for muscle‐related diseases.
Student satisfaction with R vs. Excel in Data Mining and Business Analytics: A Herzberg's motivation‐hygiene theory perspective
Authors: Sankaran Siva , Sankaran Kris , Bui Tung 
Published: February 2023

AbstractApplying Herzberg's motivation‐hygiene theory, we studied the determinants of student satisfaction in using R in a Decision Support Systems course that previously used Excel to teach Data Mining and Business Analytics (DMBA). The course is a degree requirement, and prior programming experience is not a prerequisite. We hypothesized that motivators for student satisfaction with R would include: (i) an intrinsic interest in DMBA, (ii) a perception that R is a better tool than Excel for DMBA, and (iii) a favorable view of R as a facilitator of career advancement. We postulated that the hygiene factor was the compulsory course requirement to learn R, a new and challenging language to students in this study. Data from 120 students, analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Generalized Additive Modeling (GAM), showed that motivators were positively related to satisfaction while hygiene factors were neutral. Students showed willingness to take on a harder challenge in exchange for intrinsic and future career benefits. The model can be useful in curriculum design or career advisement to increase student satisfaction in learning new software skills while meeting market demands.
Effect of surface treatment of ethylene vinyl acetate on the delamination of custom‐fitted mouthguards
Authors: de Melo Calebe , Resende Júlia Borges , Lozada Maribí Isomar Terán , Mendoza Lilibeth Carola Leyton , Ribeiro Maria Tereza Hordones , Soares Priscila Barbosa Ferreira , Soares Carlos José 
Published: February 2023

AbstractBackground/AimContamination of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) during mouthguard fabrication can cause delamination. The study evaluated the effects of different EVA surface treatments on the contact angle, laminate bond strength, and elongation capacity.Materials and MethodsSpecimens of two bonded EVA plates were prepared (n = 30). The Shore A hardness of standardized EVA plate specimens was measured before and after thermo‐plasticization. The EVA plates were randomly allocated to one of five different surface treatment groups: no treatment (control); isopropyl alcohol, 100%; chloroform, 99.8%; self‐cure acrylic resin monomer (methacrylate, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and chemical initiator—amine type); and ethyl alcohol, 70%. The maximum breaking force and elongation at the site of fracture were recorded using a universal testing machine. The contact angle surface was measured using ImageJ software. Scanning electron microscopy of the EVA surface was performed. The laminate bond strength was obtained by dividing the maximum breaking force by the bonding area between the two EVA plates. The laminate bond strength and maximum elongation data were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey's and the Dunnet test. The failure mode data was analyzed using the chi‐square test (α = .05).ResultsEVA surface treatment significantly influenced the laminate bond strength and maximum elongation (p < .001). The control group had a higher contact angle and significantly lower laminate bond strength and maximum elongation than the other groups (p < .001). The acrylic resin monomer and chloroform‐treated specimens had similar laminate bond strength and maximum elongation. The acrylic resin monomer group had a significantly lower contact angle (p < .001).ConclusionsAll treatments had a significantly higher laminate bond strength and maximum elongation than the control group. The acrylic resin monomer and chloroform groups had a significantly higher laminate bond strength and maximum elongation and the acrylic resin monomer group had a lower contact angle than the other groups. The chloroform should be avoided due its hazardous effects.
Using Critical Success Index or Gilbert Skill Score as composite measures of positive predictive value and sensitivity in diagnostic accuracy studies: Weather forecasting informing epilepsy research
Authors: Mbizvo Gashirai K. , Bennett Kyle H. , Simpson Colin R. , Duncan Susan E. , Chin Richard F. M. , Larner Andrew J. 
Published: February 2023

AbstractThe Critical Success Index (CSI) and Gilbert Skill score (GS) are verification measures that are commonly used to check the accuracy of weather forecasting. In this article, we propose that they can also be used to simplify the joint interpretation of positive predictive value (PPV) and sensitivity estimates across diagnostic accuracy studies of epilepsy data. This is because CSI and GS each provide a single measure that takes the weather forecasting equivalent of PPV and sensitivity into account. We have re‐analysed data from our recent systematic review of diagnostic accuracy studies of administrative epilepsy data using CSI and GS. We summarise the results and benefits of this approach.
Development of an equine muscle condition score
Authors: Pallesen Kristine , Gebara Katia , Hopster‐Iversen Charlotte , Berg Lise C. 
Published: February 2023

SummaryBackgroundMuscle mass influences performance and health in horses. It is important to be able to easily evaluate muscle mass in horses.ObjectivesTo develop an equine muscle condition score (MCS) to be used by veterinarians, horse owners, trainers and other people involved in horse management and training.Study designObservational, cross‐sectional study.MethodsTwenty‐five Thoroughbred horses at different training levels were included. Initial assessment included body condition score, height and bodyweight. Seven muscles (m. splenius, m. brachiocephalicus, m. multifidus, m. longissimus dorsi, m. gluteus medius, m. semitendinosus and m. tensor fascia latae) were imaged using ultrasonography and measured. Repeatability of ultrasonographic measurements was tested in advance by measuring each muscle 10 times in two horses. Muscle sizes were compared between two groups; trained and untrained to determine difference in muscle mass. Horses were subsequently ranked according to measured muscle mass, and palpable and visual differences between horses at different ranks were identified. A 5‐point MCS was developed. The MCS was tested by an independent, blinded operator in all 25 horses.ResultsUltrasonographic measurement of all muscles had a coefficient of variation under 5%. All muscle sizes were significantly correlated to each other except for m. brachiocephalicus, which was not correlated to m. semitendinosus and m. multifidus. All muscles were significantly larger in trained horses than in untrained horses except for m. brachiocephalicus and m. splenius. After testing, minor adjustments were made to optimise usability of the score.Main limitationsThe study population consisted of very similar horses. Further studies are needed to test the reliability of the MCS in horses of different breeds, disciplines, body condition scores and health.ConclusionThis study resulted in an equine MCS that could identify differences in muscle mass between horses. The resulting MCS was similar to other muscle assessment systems developed independently from our study, thus strengthening the findings.
Budgeting in public hospital trusts: Surplus, optimism, and accuracy
Authors: Lindaas Nils Arne , Anthun Kjartan Sarheim , Magnussen Jon 
Published: February 2023

AbstractHospitals in Norway are organized as trusts, required to follow the same accounting principles as the private sector, and responsible for funding their own investments. Thus, being able to run with a surplus has been an important part of their management. We analyze hospital budgeting for the whole sector over a 9‐year period, looking at the size of the budget surplus, degree of optimism bias, and degree of budget accuracy when comparing to the actual financial results. Our findings indicate that on average, health trusts budget with a relatively small surplus. We find indications for optimism bias, but also examples of pessimism bias. Large health trusts seem to have a higher degree of accuracy of the budgeted results. Trusts that fail to meet budgeted results have a lower budgeted surplus the following period. Capital intensity, an indication of need for new investments, is not associated with budget surplus, degree of optimism, or budget accuracy.
Emerging Ideas. Parent perspectives on children with sensory over‐responsivity
Authors: Ohanneson Beth , Schoen Sarah A. , Mitchell Vanessa 
Published: February 2023

AbstractObjectiveThis pilot study sought to explore the experience of children with sensory over‐responsivity (SOR) during a sensory meltdown and the extent that parents feel confident about strategies they use to support their child.BackgroundA large percentage of children with sensory processing challenges present with SOR. A better understanding of the experience of children with SOR is suggested to clarify severity and help parents respond effectively.MethodA retrospective analysis was conducted. An anonymous survey questionnaire was sent to 110 members of an online support group. Thirty‐six parent responses were collected from families of children with sensory processing challenges in San Francisco.ResultsResults indicated 88.9% of parents reported their child experiencing an SOR meltdown, with 51.4% having asked their child what a sensory meltdown feels like, and 31.4% reporting an experience of pain. Those children who responded to the question “does it hurt?” offered descriptions reflective of an “assault” (e.g., “it feels like knives are stabbing my bones,” “it's killing me,” “it's completely overwhelming”). Only 30.6% of parents reported feeling confident about how to respond to their child during sensory events.ConclusionDescriptions reported in this exploratory study suggest a change in terminology. Preliminary evidence suggests that these meltdowns may be more accurately described as sensory assaults.ImplicationsThis perspective could influence parental and societal views of children with SOR. More research is needed to determine how widespread the experience of pain with SOR is and if a better understanding of children's experiences can inform family interventions.
Perennial biomass cropping and use: Shaping the policy ecosystem in European countries
Authors: Clifton‐Brown John , Hastings Astley , von Cossel Moritz , Murphy‐Bokern Donal , McCalmont Jon , Whitaker Jeanette , Alexopoulou Efi , Amaducci Stefano , Andronic Larisa , Ashman Christopher , Awty‐Carroll Danny , Bhatia Rakesh , Breuer Lutz , Cosentino Salvatore , Cracroft‐Eley William , Donnison Iain , Elbersen Berien , Ferrarini Andrea , Ford Judith , Greef Jörg , Ingram Julie , Lewandowski Iris , Magenau Elena , Mos Michal , Petrick Martin , Pogrzeba Marta , Robson Paul , Rowe Rebecca L. , Sandu Anatolii , Schwarz Kai‐Uwe , Scordia Danilo , Scurlock Jonathan , Shepherd Anita , Thornton Judith , Trindade Luisa M. , Vetter Sylvia , Wagner Moritz , Wu Pei‐Chen , Yamada Toshihiko , Kiesel Andreas 
Published: February 2023

AbstractDemand for sustainably produced biomass is expected to increase with the need to provide renewable commodities, improve resource security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with COP26 commitments. Studies have demonstrated additional environmental benefits of using perennial biomass crops (PBCs), when produced appropriately, as a feedstock for the growing bioeconomy, including utilisation for bioenergy (with or without carbon capture and storage). PBCs can potentially contribute to Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) (2023–27) objectives provided they are carefully integrated into farming systems and landscapes. Despite significant research and development (R&D) investment over decades in herbaceous and coppiced woody PBCs, deployment has largely stagnated due to social, economic and policy uncertainties. This paper identifies the challenges in creating policies that are acceptable to all actors. Development will need to be informed by measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) of greenhouse gas emissions reductions and other environmental, economic and social metrics. It discusses interlinked issues that must be considered in the expansion of PBC production: (i) available land; (ii) yield potential; (iii) integration into farming systems; (iv) R&D requirements; (v) utilisation options; and (vi) market systems and the socio‐economic environment. It makes policy recommendations that would enable greater PBC deployment: (1) incentivise farmers and land managers through specific policy measures, including carbon pricing, to allocate their less productive and less profitable land for uses which deliver demonstrable greenhouse gas reductions; (2) enable greenhouse gas mitigation markets to develop and offer secure contracts for commercial developers of verifiable low‐carbon bioenergy and bioproducts; (3) support innovation in biomass utilisation value chains; and (4) continue long‐term, strategic R&D and education for positive environmental, economic and social sustainability impacts.
Women's leadership and the gendered consequences of austerity in the public sector: Evidence from IMF programs
Authors: Reinsberg Bernhard , Kern Andreas , Heinzel Mirko , Metinsoy Saliha 
Published: February 2023

AbstractDuring times of economic turmoil, women often bear the cost of cuts in public spending and labor market deregulation. We argue that the adverse gendered consequences of austerity are mitigated when women occupy more political leadership positions. We test our argument using two independent sources of evidence. First, we use cross‐country time‐series data for 95 countries from 2000 to 2018 on public‐sector employment outcomes and panel regressions to show that women leaders mitigate the adverse consequences of IMF programs for women in the public sector. Second, we use individual‐level data from the World Values Surveys covering 50 countries from 2004 to 2015 to show that women in the public sector are more likely to fear job loss and endure income loss under IMF programs when the women share in the government of their country is low but that these adverse effects disappear once women are represented in the government. These results have important implications for debates on women's leadership as well as the impact of austerity on the public sector.
Multiplication of tumor maximum diameter and number as a new surgical indicator for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Morine Yuji , Saito Yu , Yamada Shinichiro , Teraoku Hiroki , Waki Yuhei , Noma Takayuki , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Shimada Mitsuo 
Published: February 2023

AbstractAimRecent advances in treatment modalities have been made, limiting the indication of hepatic resection in the treatment strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. This retrospective study investigated the significance of multiplication of tumor maximum diameter and number (MDN) as a surgical indicator for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage HCC.MethodsA total of 49 patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage HCC who underwent curative hepatic resection between 2000 and 2020 were enrolled in this study. Prognostic factors of overall survival and disease‐free survival, including the product of MDN, were analyzed.ResultsPatients with MDN >12 experienced significantly worse prognosis compared with those with MDN ≤12 (p = 0.0395), and 5‐year overall survival rates after hepatic resection were 60.0% and 23.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the disease‐free survival rate of patients with MDN >12 was significantly worse compared with those with MDN ≤12 (p = 0.0049), and all patients with MDN >12 experienced recurrence within 3 years after hepatic resection. In the multivariate analysis, MDN >12 was identified as the only independent prognostic factor of both overall survival and disease‐free survival. In addition, patients with MDN >12 suffered from uncontrollable recurrence by locoregional treatment, such as more than four intrahepatic and extrahepatic recurrences, after hepatic resection.ConclusionsMDN index might be a new surgical indicator for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage HCC, and influence clinical decision‐making for individual treatment strategies.