bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Restriction of access to the central cavity is a major contributor to substrate selectivity in plant ABCG transporters
Authors: Pakuła Konrad , Sequeiros-Borja Carlos , Biała-Leonhard Wanda , Pawela Aleksandra , Banasiak Joanna , Bailly Aurélien , Radom Marcin , Geisler Markus , Brezovsky Jan , Jasiński Michał
Published: March 2023

ABCG46 of the legume Medicago truncatula is an ABC-type transporter responsible for highly selective translocation of the phenylpropanoids, 4-coumarate, and liquiritigenin, over the plasma membrane. To investigate molecular determinants of the observed substrate selectivity, we applied a combination of phylogenetic and biochemical analyses, AlphaFold2 structure prediction, molecular dynamics simulations, and mutagenesis. We discovered an unusually narrow transient access path to the central cavity of MtABCG46 that constitutes an initial filter responsible for the selective translocation of phenylpropanoids through a lipid bilayer. Furthermore, we identified remote residue F562 as pivotal for maintaining the stability of this filter. The determination of individual amino acids that impact the selective transport of specialized metabolites may provide new opportunities associated with ABCGs being of interest, in many biological scenarios.
Novel gene loci associated with susceptibility or cryptic quantitative resistance to Pyrenopeziza brassicae in Brassica napus
Authors: Fell Heather , Muthayil Ali Ajisa , Wells Rachel , Mitrousia Georgia K. , Woolfenden Hugh , Schoonbeek Henk-jan , Fitt Bruce D. L. , Ridout Christopher J. , Stotz Henrik U.
Published: March 2023

Key message

Quantitative disease resistance (QDR) controls the association of the light leaf spot pathogen with Brassica napus; four QDR loci that were in linkage disequilibrium and eight gene expression markers were identified.

Quantitative disease resistance (QDR) can provide durable control of pathogens in crops in contrast to resistance (R) gene-mediated resistance which can break down due to pathogen evolution. QDR is therefore a desirable trait in crop improvement, but little is known about the causative genes, and so it is difficult to incorporate into breeding programmes. Light leaf spot, caused by Pyrenopeziza brassicae, is an important disease of oilseed rape (canola, Brassica napus). To identify new QDR gene loci, we used a high-throughput screening pathosystem with P. brassicae on 195 lines of B. napus combined with an association transcriptomics platform. We show that all resistance against P. brassicae was associated with QDR and not R gene-mediated. We used genome-wide association analysis with an improved B. napus population structure to reveal four gene loci significantly (P = 0.0001) associated with QDR in regions showing linkage disequilibrium. On chromosome A09, enhanced resistance was associated with heterozygosity for a cytochrome P450 gene co-localising with a previously described locus for seed glucosinolate content. In addition, eight significant gene expression markers with a false discovery rate of 0.001 were associated with QDR against P. brassicae. For seven of these, expression was positively correlated with resistance, whereas for one, a HXXXD-type acyl-transferase, negative correlation indicated a potential susceptibility gene. The study identifies novel QDR loci for susceptibility and resistance, including novel cryptic QDR genes associated with heterozygosity, that will inform future crop improvement.
Toward combining qualitative race-specific and quantitative race-nonspecific disease resistance by genomic selection
Authors: Michel Sebastian , Löschenberger Franziska , Ametz Christian , Bürstmayr Hermann
Published: March 2023

Key message

A novel genomic selection strategy offers the unique opportunity to develop qualitative race-specific resistant varieties that possess high levels of the more durable quantitative race-nonspecific resistance in their genetic background.

Race-specific qualitative resistance genes (R-genes) are conferring complete resistance in many pathosystems, but are frequently overcome by new virulent pathogen races. Once the deployed R-genes are overcome, a wide variation of quantitative disease resistance (QDR) can be observed in a set of previously race-specific, i.e., completely resistant genotypes—a phenomenon known as “vertifolia effect.” This race-nonspecific QDR is considered to be more durable in the long term, but provides merely a partial protection against pathogens. This simulation study aimed to detangle race-specific R-gene-mediated resistance of pending selection candidates and the QDR in their genetic background by employing different genomic selection strategies. True breeding values that reflected performance data for rust resistance in wheat were simulated, and used in a recurrent genomic selection based on several prediction models and training population designs. Using training populations that were devoid of race-specific R-genes was thereby pivotal for an efficient improvement of QDR in the long term. Marker-assisted preselection for the presence of R-genes followed by a genomic prediction for accumulating the many small to medium effect loci underlying QDR in the genetic background of race-specific resistant genotypes appeared furthermore to be a promising approach to select simultaneously for both types of resistance. The practical application of such a knowledge-driven genomic breeding strategy offers the opportunity to develop varieties with multiple layers of resistance, which have the potential to prevent intolerable crop losses under epidemic situations by displaying a high level of QDR even when race-specific R-genes have been overcome by evolving pathogen populations.
Modernizing persistence–bioaccumulation–toxicity (PBT) assessment with high throughput animal-free methods
Authors: Escher Beate I. , Altenburger Rolf , Blüher Matthias , Colbourne John K. , Ebinghaus Ralf , Fantke Peter , Hein Michaela , Köck Wolfgang , Kümmerer Klaus , Leipold Sina , Li Xiaojing , Scheringer Martin , Scholz Stefan , Schloter Michael , Schweizer Pia-Johanna , Tal Tamara , Tetko Igor , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Wick Lukas Y. , Fenner Kathrin
Published: March 2023

The assessment of persistence (P), bioaccumulation (B), and toxicity (T) of a chemical is a crucial first step at ensuring chemical safety and is a cornerstone of the European Union’s chemicals regulation REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals). Existing methods for PBT assessment are overly complex and cumbersome, have produced incorrect conclusions, and rely heavily on animal-intensive testing. We explore how new-approach methodologies (NAMs) can overcome the limitations of current PBT assessment. We propose two innovative hazard indicators, termed cumulative toxicity equivalents (CTE) and persistent toxicity equivalents (PTE). Together they are intended to replace existing PBT indicators and can also accommodate the emerging concept of PMT (where M stands for mobility). The proposed “toxicity equivalents” can be measured with high throughput in vitro bioassays. CTE refers to the toxic effects measured directly in any given sample, including single chemicals, substitution products, or mixtures. PTE is the equivalent measure of cumulative toxicity equivalents measured after simulated environmental degradation of the sample. With an appropriate panel of animal-free or alternative in vitro bioassays, CTE and PTE comprise key environmental and human health hazard indicators. CTE and PTE do not require analytical identification of transformation products and mixture components but instead prompt two key questions: is the chemical or mixture toxic, and is this toxicity persistent or can it be attenuated by environmental degradation? Taken together, the proposed hazard indicators CTE and PTE have the potential to integrate P, B/M and T assessment into one high-throughput experimental workflow that sidesteps the need for analytical measurements and will support the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability of the European Union.
A year in pharmacology: new drugs approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2022
Authors: Kayki-Mutlu Gizem , Aksoyalp Zinnet Sevval , Wojnowski Leszek , Michel Martin C.
Published: March 2023

While new drug approvals by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had remained stable or even increased in the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 37 newly approved drugs in 2022 are considerably less than the 53 and 50 new drugs approved in 2020 and 2021, respectively, and less than the rolling 10-year average of 43. As in previous years of this annual review, we assign these new drugs to one of three levels of innovation: first drug against a condition (“first-in-indication”), first drug using a novel molecular mechanism (“first-in-class”), and “next-in-class,” i.e., a drug using an already exploited molecular mechanism. We identify two “first-in-indication” (ganaxolon and teplizumab), 20 (54%) “first-in-class,” and 17 (46%) “next-in-class” drugs. By treatment area, rare diseases and cancer drugs were once again the most prevalent (partly overlapping) therapeutic areas. Other continuing trends were the use of accelerated regulatory approval pathways and the reliance on biopharmaceuticals (biologics).
Ecological-cultural inheritance in the wetlands: the non-linear transition to plant food production in the southern Levant
Authors: Ramsey Monica N.
Published: March 2023

The paper discusses a multi-proxy archaeobotanical dataset from the published macrobotanical and microbotanical research of 19 Epipalaeolithic sites over a period of 13.5 ka (ca. 25-11.5 ka cal bp) in the southern Levant. The archaeobotanical record includes over 200 phytolith samples extracted from sediments of 11 sites, macrobotanical evidence from seeds, plant tissues and wood charcoal from 11 sites and other microbotanical data from starches and starch spherulites from three sites. Phytolith assemblages show that Epipalaeolithic hunter-gatherers relied on wetland plant resources, and the macrobotanical evidence demonstrates the cultural importance of wetland resources to Late Epipalaeolithic foodways. The paper assesses the archaeobotanical data, using niche construction theory (NCT) to argue that human impacts in the wetlands over generations increased wetland productivity and created long-lasting ecological and cultural inheritances that allowed for the evolution and proliferation of a wetland-based system of wild plant food production. This paper proposes the idea that wetlands provided Epipalaeolithic people with a ‘domestication laboratory’ that allowed them to interact and modify their environment and also to experiment and gain new knowledge to build the long-lasting ecological-cultural inheritances necessary for the transition to plant food production. Importantly, the ecological-cultural inheritance of wild plant food production in the wetlands enabled the non-linear transition to cereal-based wild plant food production and domestication that took place in the southern Levant.
Shifting towards optimized healthy and sustainable Dutch diets: impact on protein quality
Authors: Heerschop Samantha N. , Kanellopoulos Argyris , Biesbroek Sander , van ‘t Veer Pieter
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To reduce the environmental impact of Western diets, a reduction of meat consumption and a substitution by plant-based protein sources is needed. This protein transition will affect the quantity and quality of dietary protein. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the protein adequacy of diets optimized for nutritional health and diet-related greenhouse gas emission (GHGE).

Methods

Data from 2150 adult participants of the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey were used, with diet assessed using two non-consecutive 24 h dietary recalls. Utilizable protein of current diets per day was based on meal composition and the Protein Digestibility-Corrected Amino Acid Score and was compared to protein requirements. Optimized diets were derived as linear combinations of current diets that minimized GHGE and maximized the Dutch Healthy Diet 2015 score, with/without constraints to keep dietary change within 33% of current consumption. Protein adequacy was evaluated in both current and optimized diets.

Results

In all age and gender strata, the healthiest diets had higher GHGE, the most sustainable diets had the lowest dietary quality, though higher than current diets, and protein adequacy remained sufficient. When limiting dietary change to 33% of current consumption, in the most promising trade-off diet GHGE was reduced by 12–16%. The current diet provided 1.4–2.2 times the required amount of utilizable protein.

Conclusion

These results suggest that a realistic aim for the next decade might be to reduce diet-related GHGE to 12–16% of the current levels without compromising protein adequacy and diet quality. To achieve global targets, upstream food system transformations are needed with subsequent dietary changes.
Using NMR solvent relaxation to determine the Hansen solubility parameters of a carbon black and as a quick method to compare the surface quality of carbon blacks
Authors: Sharma R. , Fairhurst D. , Growney D. J. , Dümpelmann R. , Cosgrove T.
Published: March 2023

The selection of appropriate solvents into which carbon blacks can be dispersed optimally is important for product manufacture and performance. Molecular-level interactions determine solvent suitability but are difficult to measure; existing experimental approaches require slow/expensive tests of dispersion stability. NMR solvent relaxation measurements are shown to be a fast indicator of solvent suitability, with sensitivity to the solvent-particle intermolecular forces making it a reliable proxy for determining optimum dispersibility. A structured approach to relaxation measurements with a selection of both good and poor solvents yields the Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) for the particle surface. Once obtained, suitable solvents (or solvent mixtures) can be selected from a database of HSP values to match the particle interface. The application of the NMR solvent relaxation approach for determining the HSP values is illustrated for a commercially available carbon black. Furthermore, individual solvent relaxation data for two solvents (e.g., hexane and IPA) with a variety of carbon blacks may be plotted against each other to highlight differences in surface chemistry. Using this approach, results are compared, for the first time, with data from inverse gas chromatography (IGC) with a relatively similar outcome. NMR solvent relaxation analysis provides a quick, facile, and cost-effective methodology to identify the replacement of both powder and solvent raw materials.

Graphical Abstract
Assessment of cognitive performance in multiple sclerosis using smartphone-based training games: a feasibility study
Authors: Pless Silvan , Woelfle Tim , Naegelin Yvonne , Lorscheider Johannes , Wiencierz Andrea , Reyes Óscar , Calabrese Pasquale , Kappos Ludwig
Published: March 2023

Background

Cognitive impairment occurs in up to 70% of people with MS (pwMS) and has a large impact on quality of life and working capacity. As part of the development of a smartphone-app (dreaMS) for monitoring MS disease activity and progression, we assessed the feasibility and acceptance of using cognitive games as assessment tools for cognitive domains.

Methods

We integrated ten cognitive games in the dreaMS app. Participants were asked to play these games twice a week for 5 weeks. All subjects underwent a battery of established neuropsychological tests. User feedback on acceptance was obtained via a five-point Likert-scale questionnaire. We correlated game performance measures with predetermined reference tests (Spearman’s rho) and analyzed differences between pwMS and Healthy Controls (rank biserial correlation).

Results

We included 31 pwMS (mean age 43.4 ± 12.0 years; 68% females; median Expanded Disability Status Scale score 3.0, range 1.0–6.0) and 31 age- and sex-matched HC. All but one game showed moderate–strong correlations with their reference tests, (|rs|= 0.34–0.77). Performance improved in both groups over the 5 weeks. Average ratings for overall impression and meaningfulness were 4.6 (range 4.2–4.9) and 4.7 (range 4.5–4.8), respectively.

Conclusion

Moderate–strong correlations with reference tests suggest that adaptive cognitive games may be used as measures of cognitive domains. The practice effects observed suggest that game-derived measures may capture change over time. All games were perceived as enjoyable and meaningful, features crucial for long-term adherence. Our results encourage further validation of adaptive cognitive games as monitoring tools for cognition in larger studies of longer duration.

Study Register

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04413032.
Carbon dioxide protects simulated driving performance during severe hypoxia
Authors: Bloomfield Peter Michael , Green Hayden , Fisher James P. , Gant Nicholas
Published: March 2023

Purpose

We sought to determine the effect of acute severe hypoxia, with and without concurrent manipulation of carbon dioxide (CO2), on complex real-world psychomotor task performance.

Methods

Twenty-one participants completed a 10-min simulated driving task while breathing room air (normoxia) or hypoxic air (PETO2 = 45 mmHg) under poikilocapnic, isocapnic, and hypercapnic conditions (PETCO2 = not manipulated, clamped at baseline, and clamped at baseline + 10 mmHg, respectively). Driving performance was assessed using a fixed-base motor vehicle simulator. Oxygenation in the frontal cortex was measured using functional near-infrared spectroscopy.

Results

Speed limit exceedances were greater during the poikilocapnic than normoxic, hypercapnic, and isocapnic conditions (mean exceedances: 8, 4, 5, and 7, respectively; all p ≤ 0.05 vs poikilocapnic hypoxia). Vehicle speed was greater in the poikilocapnic than normoxic and hypercapnic conditions (mean difference: 0.35 km h−1 and 0.67 km h−1, respectively). All hypoxic conditions similarly decreased cerebral oxyhaemoglobin and increased deoxyhaemoglobin, compared to normoxic baseline, while total hemoglobin remained unchanged.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that supplemental CO2 can confer a neuroprotective effect by offsetting impairments in complex psychomotor task performance evoked by severe poikilocapnic hypoxia; however, differences in performance are unlikely to be linked to measurable differences in cerebral oxygenation.
Skeletal muscle oxidative adaptations following localized heat therapy
Authors: Ihsan Mohammed , Labidi Mariem , Racinais Sebastien
Published: March 2023

Repeated heat treatment has been shown to induce oxidative adaptations in cell cultures and rodents, but similar work within human models is scarce. This study investigated the effects of 6 weeks of localized heat therapy on near-infrared spectroscopy-(NIRS) derived indices of muscle oxidative and microvascular function. Twelve physically active participants (8 males and 4 females, age: 34.9 ± 5.9 years, stature: 175 ± 7 cm, body mass: 76.7 ± 13.3 kg) undertook a 6-week intervention, where adhesive heat pads were applied for 8 h/day, 5 days/week, on one calf of each participant, while the contralateral leg acted as control. Prior to and following the intervention, the microvascular function was assessed using NIRS-based methods, where 5 min of popliteal artery occlusion was applied, and the reperfusion (i.e., re-saturation rate, re-saturation amplitude, and hyperemic response) was monitored for 2 min upon release. Participants also performed a 1-min isometric contraction of the plantar flexors (30% maximal voluntary contraction), following which a further 2 min interval was undertaken for the assessment of recovery kinetics. A 20-min time interval was allowed before the assessment protocol was repeated on the contralateral leg. Repeated localized heating of the gastrocnemius did not influence any of the NIRS-derive indices of microvascular or oxidative function (p > 0.05) following 6 weeks of treatment. Our findings indicate that localized heating via the use of adhesive heat pads may not be a potent stimulus for muscle adaptations in physically active humans.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors of the upper GI tract: population-based analysis of epidemiology, treatment and outcome based on data from the German Clinical Cancer Registry Group
Authors: Abdalla Thaer S. A. , Pieper Lina , Kist Markus , Thomaschewski Michael , Klinkhammer-Schalke Monika , Zeissig Sylke Ruth , Tol Kees Kleihues-van , Wellner Ulrich Friedrich , Keck Tobias , Hummel Richard
Published: March 2023

Background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are rare mesenchymal tumors. They are most frequently located in the stomach but are also found in the esophagus and the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). Information regarding the prognostic factors associated with upper gastrointestinal GIST is still scarse.

Methods

In this study, datasets provided by the German Clinical Cancer Registry Group, including a total of 93,069 patients with malignant tumors in the upper GI tract (C15, C16) between 2000 and 2016 were analyzed to investigate clinical outcomes of GIST in the entire upper GI tract.

Results

We identified 1361 patients with GIST of the upper GI tract. Tumors were located in the esophagus in 37(2.7%) patients, at the GEJ in 70 (5.1%) patients, and in the stomach in 1254 (91.2%) patients. The incidence of GIST increased over time, reaching 5% of all UGI tumors in 2015. The median age was 69 years. The incidence of GIST was similar between males and females (53% vs 47%, respectively). However, the proportion of GIST in female patients increased continuously with advancing age, ranging from 34.7% (41–50 years) to 71.4% (91–100 years). Male patients were twice as likely to develop tumors in the esophagus and GEJ compared to females (3.4% vs. 1.9% and 6.7% vs. 3.4%, respectively). The median overall survival of upper gastrointestinal GIST was 129 months. The 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year OS was 93%, 79%, and 52% respectively. Nevertheless, tumors located in the esophagus and GEJ were associated with shorter OS compared to gastric GIST (130 vs. 111 months, p = 0.001). The incidence of documented distant metastasis increased with more proximal location of GIST (gastric vs. GEJ vs. esophagus: 13% vs. 16% vs. 27%) at presentation.

Conclusion

GIST of the esophagus and GEJ are rare soft tissue sarcomas with increasing incidence in Germany. They are characterized by worse survival outcomes and increased risk of metastasis compared to gastric GIST.
Macroporous carbon coatings through carbonization of emulsion-templated poly(dicyclopentadiene) on metal substrates
Authors: Kovačič Sebastijan , Gruber Katharina , Fuchsbichler Bernd , Schmuck Martin , Slugovc Christian
Published: March 2023

In this article, we demonstrate the fabrication of thin and macroporous carbon coatings that adhere to various metal substrates such as nickel- or aluminum-based foils or meshes. The coating process is a combination of emulsion-templating and the doctor-blade method, which allows to prepare up to 350 µm thick poly(dicyclopentadiene) membranes with a polyHIPE (polymerized high internal phase emulsions) architecture. Carbonization of these poly(dicyclopentadiene) membranes directly on the metal substrates resulted in up to 30-µm-thick foamy carbon coatings that retain the highly porous architecture and flexibility. Subsequently, carbon foam-coated Ni-foils were filled with elemental sulfur by a melt diffusion technique. A macroporous carbon coating supported sulfur loadings up to 65 wt%, obtaining cathodes for galvanostatic cycling experiments in Li–S cells. The latter revealed discharge capacities higher than 800 mA h−1 according to the sulfur mass. With our approach, the final assembly of the electrodes is greatly simplified because no binders or conductive fillers are required.

Graphical abstract
Verbesserung der Floating-Liner Methode zur Messung der Kolbengruppenreibung durch Einsatz doppelschrägverzahnter Zahnriemen
Authors: Binder Jürgen , Jaensch Malte , Wachtmeister Georg
Published: March 2023

Die mechanischen Verluste von Verbrennungsmotoren hängen maßgeblich von den auftretenden Reibkräften innerhalb der Kolbengruppe ab. Da die Kolbengruppe das komplexeste tribologische System im Motor darstellt, ist ein hohes Systemverständnis notwendig, um die Bauteile gezielt zu optimieren. Um dieses Maß an Systemverständnis zu generieren, müssen die auftretenden Reibungsverluste direkt und kurbelwinkelaufgelöst gemessen werden. Eine Möglichkeit dazu bietet die Floating-Liner Methode, bei der in Einzylinder Forschungsmotoren die Laufbuchse axial schwimmend auf Kraftmessdosen gelagert wird. Eine Einschränkung dieser Messmethode ist die hohe Anfälligkeit für Störungen, vor allem aus Schwingungen des Motorbetriebs. Ein Teil dieser Schwingungen stammt aus dem Nockenwellen-Antrieb und dem bei Einzylindermotoren typischerweise verbauten Massenausgleich. Riementriebe mit kontinuierlichem Zahneingriff wie beispielsweise doppelschrägverzahnte Riemen können in der Theorie den Schwingungseinfluss dieser Antriebe reduzieren. Aus diesem Grund wurden im Rahmen dieser Arbeit zwei Riementriebe eines Einzylinder Forschungsmotors zur Reibkraftmessung nach dem Floating-Liner Prinzip mit solch doppelschrägverzahnten Riemen ausgestattet. Der kontinuierliche Zahneingriff reduziert die mittlere Schwingungsbreite der auftretenden Schwingungsanregung des Kraftsignals in Abhängigkeit der Motordrehzahl um bis zu 22 %. Eine genaue Schwingungsanalyse zeigt zudem, dass, im Gegensatz zum geradverzahnten Riemensystem, keine Anregungen durch die verbauten Riemenscheiben mehr auftreten. Zusätzlich wird die Amplitude der Schwingungsanregung der Kraftmessung reduziert. Insgesamt bieten somit doppelschrägverzahnte Riementriebe eine einfache Möglichkeit, die Störgrößen in für Schwingungen anfälligen Systemen, wie den Forschungsmotoren zur Reibkraftmessung, deutlich zu reduzieren.
Laparoscopic hernia repair in children: does recreating the open operation improve outcomes? A systematic review
Authors: Goneidy Ayman , Verhoef Christian , Lansdale Nick , Peters Robert T. , Wilkinson David J.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The use of laparoscopy for paediatric inguinal hernia repairs has increased significantly over the past 2 decades. However, there is significant variation in the reported recurrence rates in the literature, with many studies reporting higher rates than the open operation. This may be explained by the range of different techniques currently included under the term laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. The purpose of this study is to determine whether dividing the hernia sac before ligation improves surgical outcomes following a paediatric laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair compared to ligation alone.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed following PRISMA guidelines of all studies reporting the outcomes following paediatric laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair where the technique was recorded as laparoscopic suture ligation alone (LS) or laparoscopic sac division and suture ligation (LSDS). Studies were assessed for risk of bias and exclusion criteria included reported follow-up of less than 6 months.

Results

A total of 8518 LS repairs and 6272 LSDS repairs were included in the final analysis. LSDS repair was associated with a significantly lower recurrence rate (odds ratio 0.51, 95% CI 0.36–0.71, p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the rates of testicular ascent or atrophy.

Conclusion

Recreating the open operation by hernia sac division followed by suture ligation significantly reduces the risk of hernia recurrence.
Input and output reconsidered in supplier selection DEA model
Authors: Dobos Imre , Vörösmarty Gyöngyi
Published: March 2023

The selection of input and output items is crucial for successful application of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) as they should express the decision maker's preferences and perceptions of what might affect the efficiency of a decision making unit (DMU). This article addresses the question of the transformation of input and output data that may be required for efficiency analyses using DEA method. Different methods for the data transformation are available in the literature, however, they may lead to different results, which may bias the decisions. This paper attempts to provide some guidance on this issue and to compare the results. An example of supplier evaluation will be used to illustrate the possible solutions and the differences in the final results (supplier evaluated to be among the efficient suppliers).
Canonical Witt formal scheme extensions and p-torsion groups
Authors: Bertapelle Alessandra , Mazzari Nicola , Saha Arnab
Published: March 2023

We study the nth arithmetic jet space of the p-torsion subgroup attached to a smooth commutative formal group scheme. We show that the nth jet space above fits in the middle of a canonical short exact sequence between a power of the formal scheme of Witt vectors of length n and the p-torsion subgroup we started with. This result generalizes a result of Buium on roots of unity.
Inductive linearization for binary quadratic programs with linear constraints: a computational study
Authors: Mallach Sven
Published: March 2023

The computational utility of inductive linearizations for binary quadratic programs when combined with a mixed-integer programming solver is investigated for several combinatorial optimization problems and established benchmark instances.
Acceptability and feasibility of home-based hypertension and physical activity screening by community health workers in an under-resourced community in South Africa
Authors: Stoutenberg Mark , Crouch Simone H. , McNulty Lia K. , Kolkenbeck-Ruh Andrea , Torres Georgia , Gradidge Philippe J. L. , Ly Andy , Ware Lisa J.
Published: March 2023

Background

Low–middle-income countries (LMICs) face increasing burdens from non-communicable disease (NCDs) requiring primary care task shifting to community health workers (CHWs). This study explored community members' perceptions of NCD-focused, CHW-led home visits in a historically disadvantaged township of South Africa.

Methods

Trained CHWs visited community member homes, performing blood pressure and physical activity (PA) screenings, followed by brief counselling and a satisfaction survey. Semi-structured interviews were conducted within 3 days of the visit to learn about their experiences.

Results

CHWs visited 173 households, with 153 adult community members consenting to participate (88.4%). Participants reported that it was easy to understand CHW-delivered information (97%), their questions were answered well (100%), and they would request home service again (93%). Twenty-eight follow-up interviews revealed four main themes: 1) acceptance of CHW visits, 2) openness to counselling, 3) satisfaction with screening and a basic understanding of the results, and 4) receptiveness to the PA advice.

Conclusion

Community members viewed CHW-led home visits as an acceptable and feasible method for providing NCD-focused healthcare services in an under-resourced community. Expanding primary care reach through CHWs offers more accessible and individualized care, reducing barriers for individuals in under-resourced communities to access support for NCD risk reduction.
DISCONA: distributed sample compression for nearest neighbor algorithm
Authors: Rybicki Jedrzej , Frenklach Tatiana , Puzis Rami
Published: March 2023

Sample compression using 𝜖-net effectively reduces the number of labeled instances required for accurate classification with nearest neighbor algorithms. However, one-shot construction of an 𝜖-net can be extremely challenging in large-scale distributed data sets. We explore two approaches for distributed sample compression: one where local 𝜖-net is constructed for each data partition and then merged during an aggregation phase, and one where a single backbone of an 𝜖-net is constructed from one partition and aggregates target label distributions from other partitions. Both approaches are applied to the problem of malware detection in a complex, real-world data set of Android apps using the nearest neighbor algorithm. Examination of the compression rate, computational efficiency, and predictive power shows that a single backbone of an 𝜖-net attains favorable performance while achieving a compression rate of 99%.
RTKN2 Inhibits the Growth, Migration, Invasion and Glycolysis of Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells by Inactivating the NF-κB Signalling Pathway
Authors: Wang Na , Wang Jinxiang
Published: March 2023

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a malignant tumour that seriously threatens the life and health of people worldwide. This research was carried out to investigate the role of Rhotekin 2 (RTKN2) in LUAD progression.

Methods and Results

The GEPIA online database was used to analyse abnormally expressed genes in lung adenocarcinoma and RTKN2 expression in various cancers. Cell proliferation was detected with CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Transwell assays were carried out to assess cell migration and invasion. The extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) and oxygen consumption rate (OCR) were evaluated by a Seahorse XFe96 analyser. The interaction between RTKN2 and p65 was confirmed using a coimmunoprecipitation assay. RTKN2 expression was detected with qPCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blot assays. The p65 levels in the cytoplasm and nucleus were determined by western blot assays. RTKN2 levels were prominently decreased in LUAD tissues and cell lines. RTKN2 overexpression suppressed LUAD cell growth, invasion, migration, and glycolysis, while RTKN2 knockdown showed the opposite effects. Additionally, p65 could be negatively regulated by RTKN2. RTKN2 overexpression increased p65 levels in the cytoplasm but decreased p65 levels in the nucleus. Furthermore, blocking the NF-κB signalling pathway neutralized the effect of RTKN2 silencing in LUAD cells.

Conclusion

RTKN2 inhibited the malignant behaviour and glycolysis of LUAD cells by blocking the NF-κB signalling pathway, implying that RTKN2 could be a cancer suppressor in LUAD progression.
Crosstalk Between Autophagy and Inflammation in Chronic Cerebral Ischaemia
Authors: Zhou Hai-qian , Zhang Li-mei , Li Xiao , Huang Zhi-hua
Published: March 2023

Chronic cerebral ischaemia (CCI) is a high-incidence cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease that is very common in clinical practice. Although many pathogenic mechanisms have been explored, there is still great controversy among neuroscientists regarding the pathogenesis of CCI. Therefore, it is important to elucidate the mechanisms of CCI occurrence and progression for the prevention and treatment of ischaemic cerebrovascular disorders. Autophagy and inflammation play vital roles in CCI, but the relationship between these two processes in this disease remains unknown. Here, we review the progression and discuss the functions, actions and pathways of autophagy and inflammation in CCI, including a comprehensive view of the transition from acute disease to CCI through ischaemic repair mechanisms. This review may provide a reference for future research and treatment of CCI.

Graphical Abstract

Schematic diagram of the interplay between autophagy and inflammation in CCI. CCI lead to serious, life-threatening complications. This review summarizes two factors in CCI, including autophagy and inflammation, which have been focused for the mechanisms of CCI. In short, the possible points of intersection are shown in the illustration. CCI, Chronic cerebral ischaemia; ER stress, Endoplasmic reticulum stress; ROS, Reactive oxygen species.
Religiosity of Migrants and Natives in Western Europe 2002–2018: Convergence and Divergence
Authors: Guveli Ayse , Platt Lucinda
Published: March 2023

Patterns of religiosity among both settled and migrant populations have been the subject of intense, and often conflicting, scholarly debate. In Europe, most analysis of migrant religiosity has focused on Islam, though migrants to Western European countries come from a wide range of religions and denominations. Despite a general assumption of assimilation over generations to greater secularization, evidence on trends in religiosity across migrants of different religions and for both first and second generations remains partial. We use the European Social Survey (rounds 1–9) to examine three dimensions of religiosity encompassing both performative and subjective domains, across 15 Western European destination countries over a 16-year period. While variation in religiosity between different affiliations is not large, migrants tend to have higher religiosity than non-migrants across the religious affiliations we consider. Over time we see that while natives show an overall decline in religiosity over the period, first- and second-generation Protestants and Muslims show increases in religiosity, providing some evidence for religious revival. We discuss the implications of our findings for theories of secularization and religious revival, and the future religious landscape of Europe.
Roundtable on Deregistration and Gender Law Reform Internationally
Authors: Smith Jess , Cannoot Pieter , de Repentigny Pierre Cloutier , Holzer Lena , Leung Shelley , Ni Mhuirthile Tanya , Vipond Evan , Varman Nipuna
Published: March 2023

In this roundtable discussion, early-career researchers working in the field of law, gender, and sexuality discuss international and trans-national developments to legal gender. ‘The Future of Legal Gender’ research project focused on the legislative framework of England and Wales to develop a prototype for decertification. The domestic legislation, however, was situated within a wider international context throughout the project. This roundtable discussion, therefore, provided an opportunity for reflection on the transnational issues raised by decertification, with a particular focus on developments arising in the jurisdiction(s) studied by the early career researchers. The roundtable began with a brief outline of these recent developments before moving to an open discussion on key themes including the value of reform on wider society, changes on-the-ground by non-state actors, and alternative processes for tackling gender inequalities without certifying legal gender. The online conversation took place on 28 June 2021 and has been transcribed and edited for continuity, clarity, and referencing.
Characterization of an Iron Ore Tailing Sample and the Evaluation of Its Representativeness
Authors: Carneiro Jessé Joabe Vieira , Marques Eduardo Antonio Gomes , Viana da Fonseca António Joaquim Pereira , Ferraz Roberto Lopes , Oliveira Ângelo Henrique Cruz
Published: March 2023

The massive annual tonnage of iron ore tailings, plus the more demanding environmental policies after the catastrophic collapses of Fundão Dam in 2015 and Feijão Dam I in 2019, have forced Brazilian mining companies to search for more sustainable and safer alternatives for tailings disposal. The Brazilian mining industry has been studying the dry stacking of filtered tailings. Most companies seek the development of great dry stacks, over 200 m high, to absorb the whole tailings generation. As tailings assume a structural role, it is vital to characterize the dry stacks and understand their behaviour. This study aimed to characterize index properties, evaluate the effect of compaction on the hydraulic behaviour, and evaluate field variability of iron ore tailings from a mine in Quadrilátero Ferrífero, Brazil. Also, a database of iron ore tailings properties from Quadrilátero Ferrífero was collected and used to evaluate the results. Specimens were compacted to 93%, 95%, 97%, and 100% of Proctor’s maximum dry unit weight, and the hydraulic conductivity was defined for several confining pressures (100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 and 1900 kPa) for each degree of compaction. Index properties of the studied tailing were similar to other iron ore tailings from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero, hydraulic conductivity was proportional to the void ratio, and the field tests indicated some variability of both material properties and degree of compaction of the stacked material. The database presented in this study supplies the mining industry with a reference point for future projects.
Studying abroad experience and the wages of females
Authors: Asankulova Zhanylai , Thomsen Stephan
Published: March 2023

Studying abroad acts as investment in human capital and ideally outweighs associated investment costs due to higher earnings or related non-monetary benefits. We estimate monetary returns to studying abroad for female graduates 1 and 5 years after graduation. The empirical estimates—based on panel data from four graduate cohorts in 1997, 2001, 2005, and 2009—confirm positive returns to studying abroad. Mobile females earn 3.2% higher wages compared to non-mobiles at labor market entry. These initial wage gains tend to improve further over time, resulting in about 4.0% higher earnings for mobile females 5 years after graduation. Detailed consideration of different socio-economic groups reveals that female graduates from non-academic backgrounds and females majoring in social sciences benefit most. Studying abroad, therefore, has positive effects on later income of female graduates.
Ethanol preservation effects on stable carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen isotopes in the freshwater pearl mussel
Authors: Hajisafarali Mahsa , Taskinen Jouni , Eloranta Antti P. , Kiljunen Mikko
Published: March 2023

Chemical preservatives can alter stable isotope ratios in animal tissues. The effects of preservation on δ13C and δ15N values have been investigated in a variety of species, but not on δ2H values or on the freshwater pearl mussel (FPM, Margaritifera margaritifera) tissues. We evaluated the effect of ethanol preservation (unpreserved vs preserved tissues) over 6 months on the δ13C, δ15N and δ2H values of FPM foot and gonad tissues. Ethanol preservation significantly increased δ13C values (foot 0.4 ‰; gonad 0.3 ‰), whereas it did not significantly affect δ15N values (foot 0.2 ‰; gonad − 0.1 ‰). The positive effect of ethanol preservation on δ2H values (foot 7.1 ‰; gonad 14.5 ‰) and the negative effect on C:N ratios (foot  − 0.1; gonad − 0.5) depended on the tissue type, with larger effects found on the lipid-rich gonad. Overall, ethanol preservation affected δ2H values more than the δ13C, δ15N or C:N ratios of FPM tissues. After 1 month of preservation, the isotope values remained rather stable, and significant changes were only observed in δ15N values. The results imply that ethanol-preserved FPM samples can be used if potential shifts in isotopic and elemental ratios are accounted for prior running mixing models for estimating dietary proportions.
New Far-Infrared Laser Frequencies Generated by CH3CN, CD3CN, $^{13}\textit {CH}_{3}$I, CD3I, and $^{13}\textit {CD}_{3}$I
Authors: Jackson Michael
Published: March 2023

Heterodyne techniques have been used to experimentally determine, for the first time, the frequencies for nineteen laser emissions ranging from 264 to 984 GHz. These laser emissions were generated by optically pumping either CH3CN, CD3CN, $^{13}\textit {CH}_{3}$

13

CH

3

I, CD3I, or $^{13}\textit {CD}_{3}$

13

CD

3

I with a CO2 laser. This includes the newly discovered 566.325-μ m laser emission from optically pumped $^{13}\textit {CD}_{3}$

13

CD

3

I. The fractional uncertainties with which these frequencies were experimentally determined, up to ± 5 × 10− 7, were of sufficient accuracy to confirm or revise seven previously proposed far-infrared laser assignments.
Economic Evaluation of Inpatient Multimodal Occupational Rehabilitation vs. Outpatient Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Sick-Listed Workers with Musculoskeletal- or Common Mental Disorders
Authors: Aasdahl Lene , Fimland Marius Steiro , Bjørnelv Gudrun M.W , Gismervik Sigmund Østgård , Johnsen Roar , Vasseljen Ottar , Halsteinli Vidar
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit of inpatient multimodal occupational rehabilitation (I-MORE) compared to outpatient acceptance and commitment therapy (O-ACT) for individuals sick listed due to musculoskeletal- or common mental disorders during two-years of follow-up. Methods: We conducted an economic evaluation with a societal perspective alongside a randomized controlled trial with 24 months follow-up. Individuals sick listed 2 to 12 months were randomized to I-MORE (n = 85) or O-ACT (n = 79). The outcome was number of working days. Healthcare use and sick leave data were obtained by registry data. Results: Total healthcare costs during the 24 months was 12,057 euros (95% CI 9,181 to 14,933) higher for I-MORE compared to O-ACT, while the difference in production loss was 14,725 euros (95% CI -1,925 to 31,375) in favour of I-MORE. A difference of 43 (95% CI -6 to 92) workdays, in favour of I-MORE, gave an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of 278 euros for one workday, less than the cost of one day production (339 euros). Net societal benefit was 2,667 euros during two years of follow-up. Conclusion: Despite considerable intervention costs, the lower production loss resulted in I-MORE being cost-effective when compared to O-ACT. Based on economic arguments, I-MORE should be implemented as a treatment alternative for individuals on long-term sick leave. However, more research on subgroup effects and further follow-up of participants’ permanent disability pension awards are warranted.
The association between renal hyperfiltration and mortality is not mediated by diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ould Setti Mounir , Voutilainen Ari , Niskanen Leo , Tuomainen Tomi-Pekka
Published: March 2023

Background

Renal hyperfiltration (RHF), recently established as a risk factor for mortality, is linked to current and subsequent diabetes mellitus (DM). DM could be seen as a mediator in the pathway between RHF and mortality. However, the mediating role of DM in the relationship between RHF and mortality is unclear.

Methods and results

Based on a cohort of 2682 Finnish men from the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factor Study (KIHD) followed-up for 35 years, we evaluated the association between RHF and mortality, with DM as a mediator, following two methods: a classic mediation analysis approach, using Cox regression, and a counterfactual framework for mediation analysis, using g-computation, Cox regression, and logistic regression. RHF is associated with an increased risk of mortality. This association was not mediated by DM. Under a counterfactual framework and on a hazard ratio scale, RHF association with mortality had a total effect of 1.54 (95% confidence interval, 1.26–1.98) and a controlled direct effect of 1.66 (1.34–2.16).

Conclusion

An association between RHF and mortality risk, independent of DM, was established. RHF should be considered, managed, and followed-up as a mortality-associated condition, regardless of the status of DM. We suggest clinicians to consider including RHF screening in routine clinical care, especially diabetic care.