Gifted Research Articles

Molecular characterization and stage-dependent gene expression of gonadotropin receptors in Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis, ovarian follicles

To understand the physiological mechanisms by which pituitary-derived gonadotropins (Gths), follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh) and luteinizing hormone (Lh) regulate asynchronous oocyte development, we investigated the function and expression of Fsh and Lh receptors (Fshr and Lhr, respectively) in Pacific bluefin tuna (PBT, Thunnus orientalis). As a first, we cloned the full-length cDNAs encoding PBT Fshr and Lhr. Recombinant PBT Fsh and Lh single-chain proteins were produced in abundance using stable CHO-DG44 cell lines and were subsequently purified from the culture medium, culminating in their yields being 87.0 and 88.2%, respectively. An in vitro reporter assay using homologous recombinant Gths revealed that PBT Fshr and Lhr responded strongly to their corresponding ligands in a dose-dependent manner, with no cross-activation over a wide range of concentrations. Moreover, quantitative expression analysis of Fshr and Lhr at the follicle level showed that fshr gene expression was highly upregulated in the ovarian follicles through vitellogenesis, while lhr expression was significantly upregulated and peaked in fully vitellogenic ovarian follicles. These findings suggest that asynchronous-type oocyte development is primarily attributed to the differential function and expression of Gthrs, rather than the ligand, in PBT.

Learning to Integrate STEM Into Physical Education Through Asynchronous Professional Development Modules

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand nine physical education (PE) teachers’ experiences with an asynchronous professional development module focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) integration, and the barriers they perceived to integrating STEM into PE. Methods: Semistructured interviews, pre- and post open-ended questionnaires, and discussion board posts were analyzed through a collaborative coding process. Trustworthiness was increased by using a peer debriefer, multiple coders, negative case checks, and data triangulation. Results: Four themes describe the experiences of PE teachers learning to integrate STEM into PE: teacher’s knowledge about technology and STEM, barriers to PE teachers in integrating STEM, “We’re already integrating STEM,” and issues in professional development. Discussion/Conclusion: STEM integration is possible if PE teachers are provided time and opportunities to work with content experts to learn STEM concepts and have STEM be a by-product of PE lessons rather than the sole focus of the lesson.

Content that Promotes Intent to Change: Asynchronous and Synchronous Professional Development for Family Doctors in Continuing Medical Education

Background In 2020, a medical school in northern Ontario launched “Overcoming Barriers to Safe Opioid Prescribing,” a continuing professional development program consisting of an asynchronous online module followed by a series of optional synchronous videoconferences, which together formed a virtual community of practice (VCoP). The videoconferences followed a structured format, where a case study was introduced by one of the participants from their practice, followed by group reflections on the case and the development of strategies for implementing the learnings in their practices. Methods Mixed methods data was collected from participants utilizing a variety of tools and at different times before, during and after their engagement in the program. Qualitative data analysis produced a list of key themes that were cross-validated by anonymized, aggregated program evaluation data to identify further, module-specific themes. Results This paper examines the learning experiences and outcomes of primary care providers that participated in the online modules and synchronous videoconferences and proposes content design strategies that led to these educational experiences. The online module created a baseline of knowledge, increased participants’ familiarity with practice guidelines, comfort and confidence in prescribing and deprescribing behaviours, and increased participants’ familiarity with tools, resources, and strategies for safe opioid prescribing in their practices. The synchronous videoconferences developed a community of learning through modeling, experiential learning and the sharing of experiences and best practices. Conclusions The combination of the online module and synchronous videoconferences led to an increase in the intent to change practice, particularly with enhanced the principles of patient-centred care through their focus on practical, real-world strategies and physician-patient communication techniques. Participants noted that the foundational knowledge and resources provided in the online course was supported and contextualized through the synchronous discussions.

Deconvolving organogenesis in space and time via spatial transcriptomics in thick tissues.

Organ development is guided by a space-time landscape that constraints cell behavior. This landscape is challenging to characterize for the hair follicle - the most abundant mini organ - due to its complex microscopic structure and asynchronous development. We developed 3DEEP, a tissue clearing and spatial transcriptomic strategy for characterizing tissue blocks up to 400 µm in thickness. We captured 371 hair follicles at different stages of organogenesis in 1 mm 3 of skin of a 12-hour-old mouse with 6 million transcripts from 81 genes. From this single time point, we deconvoluted follicles by age based on whole-organ molecular pseudotimes to animate a stop-motion 3D atlas of follicle development along its trajectory. We defined molecular stages for hair follicle organogenesis and characterized the order of emergence for its structures, differential signaling dynamics at its top and bottom, morphogen shifts preceding and accompanying structural changes, and series of structural changes leading to the formation of its canal and opening. We further found that hair follicle stem cells and their niche are established and stratified early in organogenesis, before the formation of the hair bulb. Overall, this work demonstrates the power of increased depth of spatial transcriptomics to provide a four-dimensional analysis of organogenesis.

Perceptions versus performance: Assessing teacher learning in asynchronous online professional development

AbstractTeacher learning in asynchronous online professional development (PD) is often measured by self-reported instruments, despite uncertainties regarding teachers’ accuracy in their self-assessment of learning. This study explored whether teachers’ self-reported gains in content knowledge for teaching aligned with those measured by direct assessments. Through quantitative analyses of data collected from 57 middle school mathematics teachers who participated in a fully asynchronous online PD program, we found no significant correlation between teachers’ self-reported knowledge gains and those measured by direct assessments. Additionally, we examined the role of teachers’ use of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies, namely organization, elaboration, and monitoring, in their learning from the PD program by conducting linear regression analyses. Our results indicated that teachers who frequently monitored their understanding of the PD content demonstrated greater gains in their content knowledge as measured by direct assessments. However, none of the SRL strategies predicted the accuracy of teachers’ self-assessments of knowledge gains from the asynchronous online PD program. These findings raise concerns about relying solely on self-reported instruments to capture teachers’ learning in asynchronous online PD programs, and they emphasize the need for more robust and accurate outcome measures in the asynchronous online learning context.

Analysis of asynchronous/inter-fracture injection-production mechanism under the condition of five-spot vertical and horizontal well combination in low permeability oil reservoirs

At present, low permeability resources are the focus of the development of petroleum industry. In this paper, firstly, the oil displacement mechanism under the condition of vertical and horizontal well combination is clarified. Secondly, the difference of the mechanism of enhancing oil recovery between asynchronous and inter-fracture injection and production is revealed. Thirdly, the difference of energy supplement mechanism between huff and puff and displacement is compared and analyzed. Results show that: (a) with asynchronous injection-production development, the oil saturation drop around the water injection well is greater than that of periodic injection-production and synchronous injection-production. (b) Under the dual effects of water injection pressure difference and capillary force, part of the injected water enters the reservoir with relatively small pore channels, expanding the swept volume. (c) In the soak stage of asynchronous injection-production development, capillary force is the main control factor of oil-water permeability, and its size determines the permeability level. (d) The injected water first flows through the large channel and then flows into small channel to complete the imbibition and replacement. (e) The flow field of asynchronous injection-production has a large sweep range, which is conducive to improving oil recovery.

Mid-Pleistocene climate transition triggered by Antarctic Ice Sheet growth.

Despite extensive investigation, the nature and causes of the Mid-Pleistocene Transition remain enigmatic. In this work, we assess its linkage to asynchronous development of bipolar ice sheets by synthesizing Pleistocene mid- to high-latitude proxy records linked to hemispheric ice sheet evolution. Our results indicate substantial growth of the Antarctic Ice Sheets (AISs) at 2.0 to 1.25 million years ago, preceding the rapid expansion of Northern Hemisphere Ice Sheets after ~1.25 million years ago. Proxy-model comparisons suggest that AIS and associated Southern Ocean sea ice expansion can induce northern high-latitude cooling and enhanced moisture transport to the Northern Hemisphere, thus triggering the Mid-Pleistocene Transition. The dynamic processes involved are crucial for assessing modern global warming that is already inducing asynchronous bipolar melting of ice sheets.

Prosocial Dispositions and Behaviors of the Intellectually Gifted

The intellectually gifted have been found to have higher levels of many prosocial dispositions, but there is limited evidence of increased prosocial behavior. The present research used existing and original datasets to examine relations between intellectual giftedness and prosocial behavior and dispositions. In Study 1, those identified as intellectually gifted engaged in more political and helping behaviors than those not identified as intellectually gifted. In Study 2, gifted-identified undergraduate students reported more prosocial behavior (e.g., volunteering and giving) than nonidentified students; however, there were no clear differences in dispositions (e.g., personality and motivation) between gifted-identified and nonidentified students. Implications of these consistent linkages between intellectual giftedness and engaging in prosocial behavior for future research and practical applications are discussed.

GONAD MATURITY LEVELS OF LEMPUK FISH (Gobiopterus sp) IN RANU GRATI, PASURUAN, EAST JAVA

Pasuruan Regency in East Java Province boasts a natural lake, Ranu Grati, formed by volcanic activity, covering about 50 hectares and home to endemic species like the Lempuk fish (Gobiopterus sp.). These fish play a crucial role in Ranu Grati's trophic structure, serving as primary consumers and key planktonic organisms supporting higher trophic levels. The Lempuk fish population faces sustainability challenges due to high demand for this traditional food, leading to overexploitation and decreased reproductive capabilities. Understanding the reproductive biology, particularly gonad maturity levels, is vital for effective resource management. This study, conducted from June to August 2023, aimed to investigate the reproductive biology and gonad maturity levels of Lempuk fish in Ranu Grati. Analysis revealed a male-biased sex ratio, with significant fluctuations in gonad maturity levels across months. In June, the sex ratio was 1.05, in July 1.17, and in August 1.39, indicating a higher population of males. Histological observations showed asynchronous egg development, likely influenced by environmental factors and the fish's reproductive strategy

Solving satellite image data downlink scheduling problem with family attribute via a bi-stage differential evolutionary algorithm

Due to the asynchronous development of observation and transition capabilities, the original image data (OID) obtained by a one-time observation cannot be completely transmitted in one transmission cycle between the EOS and GS, which is named a visible time window (VTW). First, it is needed to segment the OID into several segmented image datasets (SIDs), which are then transmitted in several VTWs. Furthermore, this can cause the satellite image data downlink scheduling problem (SIDSP). This study defines an innovative SIDSP as a satellite image data downlink scheduling problem with the family attribute (SIDSPFA), where massive OID are segmented using a fast segmentation operator, and all SIDs and other no-segmented OID are transmitted in the second step. In addition, two optimization objectives, namely the failure rate (FR) and Segmentation Time (ST) of the image data transmission, are defined to formalize the SIDSPFA as a bi-objective discrete optimization model. Further, a bi-stage differential evolutionary algorithm (DE-CD) is developed. The results of the extensive simulation tests verify the efficiency of the models, strategies, algorithms, and operators used in this study.

Blended Learning And Lab Reform: Self-Paced Sotl And Reflecting On Student Learning

As part of a large exercise physiology laboratory (lab) reform project, we used blended learning to support graduate teaching assistants and lab technicians in developing their pedagogical knowledge and create an entry point to reflective conversations about teaching and learning. Because self-paced asynchronous online modules can enable reflective and self-determined learning, this asynchronous professional development course is punctuated with reflective questions for the instructional team preparing to teach reformed exercise physiology labs. Asynchronous course content was shared via short videos, podcasts, and readings. We debriefed this self-paced, SoTL-informed course together, in-person. This social debriefing kicked off our weekly synchronous reflective conversations about teaching and learning in a community of practice. Developing a shared language for talking about teaching, enabling student learning, practicing effective teaching, and beginning to contemplate teaching philosophies were described by graduate teaching assistants as notable aspects of this blended learning journey. Lab technicians described discovering SoTL and discussing learning challenges as helpful to their teaching.

Reproductive biology and nuptial coloration of Trachinus draco (Trachinidae) from Atlantic Spanish waters (SW Europe)

Studies focusing on reproductive biology play a key role in deciphering fish population dynamics. We studied the main features of the reproductive biology of the greater weever Trachinus draco based on gonad histology and digital image analysis techniques and the main hypothesis of the study is that males of T. draco exhibit a nuptial colouration. The biological samples of 311 individuals along the Atlantic coast of Spain, covering the twelve months of the year (from 2020 to 2022), in combination with the gonadosomatic index trend revealed a spawning season from May to August, consistent with similar studies in different geographical areas. Length-weight relationship presented differences by sex (females reach higher weight at the same length). The maturity ogive for females indicated that 50 % were mature at a length of 182 mm. Histological analysis confirmed asynchronous development of secondary growth oocytes, pointing to a batch spawning strategy. Digital image analysis of the nuptial coloration showed that the presence of a black spot above the pectoral fin in males was significantly correlated with the spawning capable phase, while blueish coloration was influenced by sex, size and maturity phase, with larger spawning males having the largest areas of blueish coloration. The results of this study represent a significant improvement of our understanding of the reproductive biology of T. draco.

Development of a Teacher Rating Scale for Giftedness (TRSG)

Abstract Introduction: Intellectual giftedness is an important student characteristic that teachers need to take into consideration when designing education programs and providing educational support to these students. Effective nomination and identification are the basis for further education. In nominating gifted students for special educational programs, teachers play an important role by providing information about superior characteristics of students. The purpose of this study is to develop a teacher rating scale (TRSG) for nominating the children to gifted education programs. Methods: In order to develop a teacher rating scale (TRSG) for nominating the children to gifted education programs, the present study involved three stages: item generation, instrument application and validity-reliability analyses. One hundred sixty-nine teachers participated in the study. To ensure the validity of the scale, its content, construct and criterion-related validity were examined, and to ensure its reliability, its Cronbach alpha value was calculated. For content validity, three experts on gifted education examined the items and the whole scale in terms of successful intelligence theory. After their approval of the content, construct validity was examined by confirmatory factor analysis. Results: The result of the analysis supported the three-factor structure of the scale having 17 items. According to the results of the research, it has been established that the TRSG is a valid and reliable instrument, and it may be used to nominate gifted children based on the evaluations of the teachers. Discussion: Sternberg (2018) defined three components. According to the theory of Sternberg (2018), giftedness involves analytical, practical and creative intelligences, and they are associated not only with each other but also with a G factor. In the analysis, each item was classified under a component of successful intelligence theory and the statistical examinations supported the anticipated associations among the items and the factors. Limitations: The sample size of the teachers was small. The limitations of this study are the use of convenience sampling and the inclusion of only 169 teachers in the sample. Another limitation is rating bias. Conclusions: The results on the validity and reliability supported the notion that the scale is appropriate to be used for nomination purposes by teachers in gifted education programs. Its limited number of items, quick application, and simple scoring procedures make it advantageous for use in various contexts.

Effect of Agglomeration of Producer Services on Asynchronous Development of Industrialization and Urbanization: Provincial Panel Data of China

Effect of Agglomeration of Producer Services on Asynchronous Development of Industrialization and Urbanization: Provincial Panel Data of China

Morphofunctional characteristics of the gonads in females of the pontic shad Alosa immaculata in modern ecological conditions of the lower Nistru in the spring-summer period

Pontic shad (Alosa immaculata) is a migratory gregarious fish that spawns in the Don, Dnieper, Dniester, Danube and other rivers. The species is of valuable commercial importance. This work analyzes changes in the reproductive functions of the commercially valuable species of pontic shad (Alosa immaculata) under conditions of fragmentation of the river Dniester. Currently, the age composition, as well as the linear weight indicators of the spawning pontic shad population, turned out to be similar to the data of previous years. Oogenesis of Dniester’s pontic shad is characterized by asynchronous development of germ cells and portioned release of eggs. Spawning of spawners begins in the third ten days of May, at a water temperature of 18°C and ends in July. In the lower Dniester in April and July were revealed in some females’ destructive changes in the development of vitellogenin oocytes, which will negatively affect the population size of migratory herring.

Intellectual giftedness and early adversity: searching for the hidden factor

Intellectual giftedness and early adversity: searching for the hidden factor

Unraveling the spawning and reproductive patterns of tomato hind grouper, Cephalopholis sonnerati (Valenciennes, 1828) from south Kerala waters.

The objective of this study is to provide information on the reproductive biology of tomato hind grouper, Cephalopholis sonnerati (Valenciennes, 1828) for conservation and management purposes. Fish caught by artisanal fishermen from September 2019 to August 2021 were analysed. A total of 280 females, 31 males, and 4 transitional and 178 sex-undetermined fish were analysed. The female to male sex proportion was 9:1, and the fish reached a maximum total body length of 38.5 and 54.5 cm for females and males, respectively. The following microscopic stages were identified: immature, developing, ripe, running ripe/releasing, and spent in both males and females. Several asynchronous development patterns were observed in the studied gonads, including multiple oocyte stages and early and advanced stages of sexual transition. High gonadosomatic index (GSI) for both males and females was recorded in March, May, and November. Running ripe and releasing stages in females were identified in the months from March to June, which indicates the spawning season. The absolute and relative fecundity of the species ranged from 162,723 ± 207,267 and 239 ± 285, respectively. An exponential relationship was found between fecundity and total body length (TL), fecundity and total body weight (TW), and fecundity and gonad weight (GW).

Gifted Children and Psychiatric Disorders: Is the Risk Increased Compared With Their Peers?

This study examined the prevalence and correlates of psychopathology in gifted children (GC) and explored whether giftedness confers protection or risk for mental health problems. We used a comparative design to analyze a population-based sample of 100 GC and 100 controls matched by age and sex in Turkey. We assessed psychiatric diagnoses with the Development and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA), a valid diagnostic tool for child and adolescent mental health, and measured resilience and temperament with standardized scales. GC and controls did not differ significantly in the frequency of psychiatric disorders. However, GC showed lower resilience and higher negative reactivity and activity than controls. Negative reactivity was a significant predictor of psychopathology in GC. Sex did not moderate the effects of giftedness on mental health outcomes, resilience, or temperament. Our findings suggest that GC may have increased vulnerability to stress and reduced coping skills. We highlight the need to identify and support GCs who experience mental health problems and face psychological challenges. Our results emphasize the importance of early intervention and prevention to enhance resilience and well-being in this population. Future research should investigate the underlying mechanisms and develop tailored strategies to support the mental health and well-being of GC.

Перебіг гаметогенезу у вузькопалих річкових раків (Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823) в умовах водойм Придніпров’я

Purpose. Detailed study of the stages of reproductive development (oogenesis and spermatogenesis) of crayfish using the example of the narrow-clawed crayfish Astacus leptodactylus Eschscholtz, 1823 in reservoirs of the Dnieper region. Methodology. The study was conducted during the period of 2022-2023. The material for the study were individuals of the narrow-clayed crayfish A. leptodactilus. A morphometric analysis was performed, after which the crayfish were preserved in an alcohol solution (70% ethanol and 2% glycerol) for the slide of histological cross-sections. Histological slides of crayfish gonads were made in accordance with generally accepted histological methods. The analysis of the cross-sections was carried out using a microscope and a digital camera. Descriptions of the slides were made using atlases of histology of decapods. Findings. It has been found that the gonads exhibited an asynchronous development and were in stages C, D, E, F, with a significant number of oocytes in stage C. The diameter of oocytes in phase D mainly ranged from 195.72 ± 12.43 μm with an area of 38,21 μm². The nucleus had a diameter of 48.14 ± 1.44 μm. In phases E, the size of oocytes reached a diameter of 259.24 ± 76.18 μm and an area of 52,850 ± 5,760 μm². Throughout phase D, the diameter of vacuoles was 18.45 ± 0.86 μm. In phase E, the diameter of vacuoles increased to 26.55 ± 1.24 μm, and as soon as in the transitional phase E–F, vacuoles merged massively with individual non-merging vacuoles having a diameter of 25.22 ± 1.12 μm. At the terminal stage F, oocytes reached definitive sizes and were ready for ovulation. The average size of larvae was 2600 ± 0.093 μm in diameter. The course of spermatogenesis in crayfish males was characterized by synchronous development of gametes. The analysis of sections showed that the area of spermatocytes was 43.14 ± 0.74 μm with a diameter of 7.14 ± 0.23 μm². In turn, the nuclei of spermatocytes had dimensions of 21.64 ± 0.35 μm² and 5.24 ± 0.02 μm in diameter. Originality. A comprehensive analysis of crayfish gametogenesis was conducted for the first time in the zones of the reproductive range of the Dnieper reservoirs. Some features of the stages of oogenesis and spermatogenesis were identified and the impact of the ecological regime on the reproduction of crayfish was studied. Keywords: narrow-clawed crayfish, water bodies, reproduction, ecological state of water bodies, reservoir, eggs, gametogenesis.

Arabidopsis ribosomal RNA processing meerling mutants exhibit suspensor-derived polyembryony due to direct reprogramming of the suspensor.

Embryo development in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) starts off with an asymmetric division of the zygote to generate the precursors of the embryo proper and the supporting extraembryonic suspensor. The suspensor degenerates as the development of the embryo proper proceeds beyond the heart stage. Until the globular stage, the suspensor maintains embryonic potential and can form embryos in the absence of the developing embryo proper. We report a mutant called meerling-1 (mrl-1), which shows a high penetrance of suspensor-derived polyembryony due to delayed development of the embryo proper. Eventually, embryos from both apical and suspensor lineages successfully develop into normal plants and complete their life cycle. We identified the causal mutation as a genomic rearrangement altering the promoter of the Arabidopsis U3 SMALL NUCLEOLAR RNA-ASSOCIATED PROTEIN 18 (UTP18) homolog that encodes a nucleolar-localized WD40-repeat protein involved in processing 18S preribosomal RNA. Accordingly, root-specific knockout of UTP18 caused growth arrest and accumulation of unprocessed 18S pre-rRNA. We generated the mrl-2 loss-of-function mutant and observed asynchronous megagametophyte development causing embryo sac abortion. Together, our results indicate that promoter rearrangement decreased UTP18 protein abundance during early stage embryo proper development, triggering suspensor-derived embryogenesis. Our data support the existence of noncell autonomous signaling from the embryo proper to prevent direct reprogramming of the suspensor toward embryonic fate.