bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A two-scale model describing swelling in porous materials with elongated internal structures
Authors: Kumazaki Kota , Muntean Adrian
Published: January 2025

We consider a two-scale parabolic problem describing the water-induced swelling for a class of porous materials with elongated internal structures. The system of evolution equations we are considering here consists of a parabolic equation describing the evolution of the moisture content into a macroscopic domain coupled in a two-scale fashion to a free boundary problem capturing a microscopic swelling process. The macroscopic domain is a three-dimensional object (the target porous material), while the microscopic domains are a stack of elongated pores modeled as one-dimensional halflines connected at an edge to the macroscopic domain. By imposing a flux boundary condition at the edge of each pore, we allow the moisture content to intrude into the respective microscopic domain. In this work, we prove the existence and uniqueness of a solution to our two-scale problem. One key ingredient in our proof is the guarantee that the microscopic solution is measurable with respect to variable pointing out to the macroscopic domain. By using the Banach’s fixed-point theorem, we establish the local-in-time well-posedness of our two-scale problem.
As Time Goes By
Authors: Scheffler Samuel
Published: January 2025

Chapter 2 argued that future bias is a special case of a more general phenomenon, namely, that certain of our attitudes change with the passage of time in ways that seem puzzling and sometimes disturbing. This chapter addresses that more general phenomenon. It focuses primarily on the example of grief: over time, grief fades, and this strikes us as appropriate, even though our original reasons for grief seem to persist. Several responses to this puzzle of grief are considered. Possible analogies between grief and other emotions, such as anger and love, are discussed. The chapter ends by comparing grief to future bias, and comparing the canvassed responses to the puzzle of grief with analogous responses to future bias.
The Historicist Sensibility
Authors: Scheffler Samuel
Published: January 2025

This chapter argues that we possess a historicist sensibility, a sense of being located in an ongoing history that extends beyond the boundaries of our own lifetime. In support of this claim, the chapter argues that our reaction to the prospect of human extinction gives evidence of a direct, affective investment in the future of humanity—a love of humanity, and in particular a love of humanity as a form of life. The chapter considers a skeptical response, according to which what we love is not humanity as such but more particularistic communities and ways of life. It observes, however, that this skeptical response does not deny but actually insists upon our having a historicist sensibility. The chapter further maintains that if we do possess a historicist sensibility, then much contemporary philosophical work on “population ethics” neglects or distorts important features of our attitudes toward our successors.
Attachment, Partiality, and Deference
Authors: Scheffler Samuel
Published: January 2025

This chapter considers what is involved in valuing attachments of different types. It first offers a characterization of what it is to value a personal relationship. Valuing is understood as a syndrome of attitudes and dispositions, including certain characteristic beliefs, a certain kind of emotional vulnerability, and a certain practical orientation. In valuing a relationship, one is attached both to the person with whom one has the relationship and to the relationship itself. The chapter then turns from valuing a personal relationship to valuing one’s membership in a group. In both cases it is argued that valuing gives rise to partiality, but that partiality should not be understood in purely distributive terms; it also involves deference to others. The chapter ends by considering what is involved in valuing a personal project, and by comparing and contrasting this case with those of relationships and group membership.
Niche comparisons reveal significant divergence despite narrow endemism in Leavenworthia, a genus of rare plants
Authors: Simpson Kyle M , Spalink Daniel
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Quantifying niche similarity among closely related species offers myriad insights into evolutionary history and ecology. In this study, our aim was to explore the interplay of geographical and niche space for rare, endemic plant species and to determine whether endemic habitats were environmentally similar or unique.

Methods

We characterized the niche of all Leavenworthia species, a genus of rare plants endemic to rocky glades in the eastern USA, using WorldClim data, surface geology, elevation and slope. We calculated the area of range overlap and estimated niche similarity between pairs of species in their total occupied niche space and the subset of niche space shared by both species. We used linear discriminant analyses to determine which niche dimensions differed the most between species. We used niche dimensions with consistently high discriminatory power to perform a random forest classification analysis and principal component analysis. Using a linear model, we related geographical distance to distance in niche space.

Key Results

Most species comparisons concluded that species niches had diverged, with niche similarity increasing linearly with range overlap. Temperature variation, precipitation amount and seasonality, and surface geology were the most divergent niche dimensions among all species comparisons. Geographical distance explained 42 % of the variation in niche space distance. Sites that were closer in niche space than expected were oriented east–west owing to the strong correlation between latitude and scores on the first principal component.

Conclusions

Despite being endemic seemingly to very similar habitat, niche similarity is low among Leavenworthia species. Low niche similarity, combined with low geographical overlap, suggests that this lineage of rare plants potentially diversified in isolation but across a very small geographical area. The correlation between geographical space and niche space has received considerable attention, but our results suggest that geographical distance is a weak predictor of distance in niche space.
Advances in systematics of Mimosa (Fabaceae): phylogeny and biogeography of the Petiolovariabilis clade
Authors: Sá Barreto Jordão Lucas , Pires Morim Marli , Fragomeni Simon Marcelo , A. Baumgratz José Fernando
Published: January 2025

This study analyses the phylogeny of the clade Petiolovariabilis, proposed herein, within the genus Mimosa. This clade comprises 26 species (31 taxa), predominantly cespitose, decumbent and procumbent herbs or subshrubs, but also includes climbing armed and erect shrubs. These species are primarily distributed in the Brazilian highlands and the basins of São Francisco, Paraná, and Tocantins rivers. Phylogenetic analyses were based on six loci (both plastidial and nuclear), focusing on taxa from M. sect. Batocaulon ser. Campicolae, Echinocaulae, Filipedes, and Paucifoliatae. Within the Petiolovariabilis clade, relationships were resolved, and three child clades were described following PhyloCode guidelines. This research emphasizes informative traits such as seed pleurogram and flower merosity, alongside other important vegetative characters in a taxonomic context, such as prickles, petiole morphology, and leaf pinnae/leaflet numbers. Ancestral area reconstructions for major lineages integrating phylogenetic and curated geographic data, shed light on dispersal and speciation events within the Petiolovariabilis clade. The study also addresses taxonomic challenges related to distinguishing taxa within the current infrageneric classification of Mimosa. Overall, this research enhances our understanding on the evolutionary history of Mimosa and provides valuable insights for future studies.
Longitudinal variation in Phototherapy Cabinets – how much does this vary between cabinets?
Authors: Britton Jason , Montgomery Rachel , Campbell Fiona , Goulden Victoria
Published: January 2025

This letter provides important information and a reminder on how irradiance varies longitudinally in a phototherapy cabinet. This may have consequences on the patient outcomes but should not be a factor whe making decisions on replacement units.
Investigating T-cell-derived extracellular vesicles as biomarkers of disease activity, axonal injury, and disability in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Zagrodnik Jennifer L , Blandford Stephanie N , Fudge Neva J , Arsenault Shane T , Anthony Sarah , McGrath Lillian , Clift Fraser , Stefanelli Mark , Moore Craig S
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, whereby clinical disease activity is primarily monitored by magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

Given the limitations associated with implementing and acquiring novel and emerging imaging biomarkers in routine clinical practice, the discovery of biofluid biomarkers may offer a more simple and cost-effective measure that would improve accessibility, standardization, and patient care. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanoparticles secreted from cells under both homeostatic and pathological states, and have been recently investigated as biomarkers in MS. The objectives of this study were to longitudinally measure levels of specific immune cell-derived EVs in MS and provide evidence that EV sub-populations may serve as biomarkers of disease activity, axonal injury, and/or clinical disability.

Results

Our results demonstrate that the rate of clinical disability in MS negatively correlates with changes in circulating CD3+ EVs within the plasma. Additionally, numbers of CD4+ EVs decrease in individuals with increasing pNfL levels overtime whereby the magnitude of the pNfL increase negatively correlates with changes in plasma CD4+ and CD8+ EVs. Finally, when applying NEDA-3 criteria to define active versus stable disease, individuals with active disease had significantly elevated CD4+ and CD8+ EVs compared to stable disease.

Conclusion

In summary, the analysis of specific immune cell-derived EV subsets may provide a method to monitor disability accumulation, disease activity, and axonal injury in MS, while also providing insights into the pathophysiology and cellular/molecular mechanisms that influence progression.
Structural comparisons of human and mouse fungiform taste buds
Authors: High Brigit , Finger Thomas E
Published: January 2025

Taste buds are commonly studied in rodent models, but some differences exist between mice and humans in terms of gustatory mechanisms and sensitivities. Whether these functional differences are reflected in structural differences between species is unclear. Using immunofluorescent image stacks, we compared the morphological and molecular characteristics of mouse and human fungiform taste buds. The results suggest that while the general features of fungiform taste buds are similar between mice and humans, several characteristics differ significantly. Human taste buds are larger and taller than those of mice, yet they contain similar numbers of taste cells. Taste buds in humans are more heavily innervated by gustatory nerve fibers expressing the purinergic receptor P2X3 showing a 40% higher innervation density than in mice. Like type II cells of mice, a subset (about 30%) of cells in human taste buds is immunoreactive for phospholipase C beta (PLCβ2). These PLCβ2-immunoreactive cells display calcium homeostasis modulator 1 (CALHM1)-immunoreactive puncta closely opposed to gustatory nerve fibers suggestive of channel-type synapses in type II cells in mice. These puncta, used as a measure of synaptic contact, are significantly larger in humans compared to mice suggesting a higher efflux of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) neurotransmitter in humans. Altogether these findings suggest that while many similarities exist in the organization of murine and human fungiform taste buds, significant differences do exist in taste bud size, innervation density, and size of synaptic contacts that may impact gustatory signal transmission.
Cardiac contractility modulation as bailout in a patient with phospholamban p.Arg14del related cardiomyopathy intolerant to medication: a case report
Authors: Verelst Faro R , Van Assche Lauranne , Huybrechts Wim , Gevaert Andreas B , Van Craenenbroeck Emeline M
Published: January 2025

Background

Cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) is a novel device-based therapeutic option in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction who are not eligible for cardiac resynchronization therapy. Cardiac contractility modulation enhances cardiac contractility by delivering high-voltage non-excitatory electrical impulses during the absolute refractory period. Cardiac contractility modulation is known to improve left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), quality of life, and exercise capacity in heart failure (HF) patients.

Case summary

We present a case of a 77-years-old woman with a cardiomyopathy associated with a pathogenic PLN variant [p.(Arg14del), Dutch founder mutation]. Due to progressive deterioration of LVEF (25%) despite maximally tolerated guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), a CCM device was implanted. After implantation, the patient experienced a sharp thoracic and interscapular pain after stimulation of one of the two leads. This lead was turned-off and the output on the other lead was increased to maximal output of 7,5 V. After 3 months, there were less signs and symptoms of HF. New York Heart Association class improved from class III to II and the patient was free of thoracic pain. Echocardiography demonstrated further improvement of LVEF to 44% and a decrease in end-diastolic pressures.

Discussion

We describe a case of CCM therapy in a patient with HF related to a genetic cardiomyopathy due to a pathogenic variant in phospholamban (PLN), persistent symptoms despite maximally tolerated GDMT. Although it was necessary to deactivate one of the both leads due to thoracic pain, LVEF and HF symptoms significantly improved. Further research is needed to elaborate on the potential role of CCM therapy in genetic cardiomyopathies.
Cholinesterase inhibitors and reduced risk of hospitalization and mortality in patients with Alzheimer's dementia and heart failure
Authors: Reimers-Wessberg Marianne , Xu Hong , Fastbom Johan , Seiger Åke , Eriksdotter Maria
Published: January 2025

Aims

Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) have beneficial effects on the heart. Associations between ChEI-use and reduced mortality and cardiovascular events in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been shown. Whether these associations exist in those with both heart failure (HF) and AD is unknown.

Methods and results

A propensity score (PS) matched cohort with patients with HF and AD was obtained through linking registers for cognitive/dementia disorders, comorbidities, drug prescription, and death, in Sweden, to analyse associations between ChEI-use and risk of mortality or hospitalization for HF, stroke, or myocardial infarction, were examined. In 455 patients with and 455 without ChEI treatment, ChEI use was associated with reductions of mortality and hospitalization due to HF by 21% [0.79; (confidence interval) CI 0.66–0.96] and 47% (0.53; CI 0.38–0.75), respectively. Donepezil and galantamine but not rivastigmine were associated with a lower risk of death compared with non-users. Donepezil was associated with a lower risk of hospitalization due to HF compared with non-users. There was no significant difference in hospitalization for bradycardia, AV block, or implantation of pacemaker between ChEI use and non-use.

Conclusion

This study suggests that in persons with HF and AD, treatment with ChEIs is associated with improved survival and a decreased risk of hospital care for HF, but results due to the type of ChEI vary.
Comparison of mitral valve repair vs. replacement for mitral valve regurgitation
Authors: Dębski Maciej , Qadri Syed , Bhalraam U , Dębska Karolina , Vassiliou Vassilios , Zacharias Joseph
Published: January 2025

Background

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is a prevalent valvular abnormality categorized as primary or secondary based on aetiology. Surgical intervention, particularly mitral valve repair, is often preferred over replacement due to its association with better outcomes. However, the benefits of repair vs. replacement, especially in secondary MR, remain debated.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the long-term survival and reoperation rates in patients undergoing mitral valve repair compared to mitral valve replacement for MR in a cardiothoracic surgery unit in North-West England and in subgroups with degenerative and secondary aetiology.

Methods and results

We analysed 1724 eligible patients undergoing first-time mitral valve surgery (repair: n = 1243; replacement: n = 481) between 2000 and 2021. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Genetic matching and overlap weighting were used to balance baseline characteristics. Median follow-up was 7.1 years. In the matched cohort, mitral valve replacement was associated with higher rates of blood transfusion (29% vs. 22%), longer Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stays, and more strokes (3.7% vs. 0.4%). While 90-day mortality did not differ significantly between groups, long-term follow-up showed a survival advantage for repair [Hazard ratio: 1.32, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–1.63]. Although repair had higher reoperation rates (4.3% vs. 2.1%), the composite of death or reoperation did not differ significantly. In the degenerative MR subgroup, repair showed superior long-term survival, whereas in secondary MR, no significant survival difference was observed between strategies.

Conclusion

Among patients suitable for either surgical strategy, mitral valve repair showed better long-term survival compared to replacement, particularly in degenerative MR. However, this advantage was not observed in secondary MR.
Global burden of heart failure and its underlying causes in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2021
Authors: Chen Qin-Fen , Chen Lifen , Katsouras Christos S , Liu Chenyang , Shi Jingjing , Liang Dongjie , Xiang Guangze , Zhu Han , Liao Hetong , Lin Weihong , Zhou Xi , Zhou Xiao-Dong
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Heart failure (HF) presents a significant global health challenge due to its rising prevalence and impact on disability. This study aims to comprehensively analyse the global burden of HF and its underlying causes.

Methods and results

Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, we analysed the prevalence and years lived with disability (YLD) of HF, examining its implications across diverse demographics and geographic regions. In 2021, approximately 55.5 million [95% uncertainty interval (UI) 49.0–63.8] people worldwide were affected by HF, a significant increase from 25.4 million (95% UI 22.3–29.2) in 1990. The age-standardized prevalence rate per 100 000 people was 676.7 (95% UI 598.7–776.8) overall, with males experiencing a higher rate at 760.8 (95% UI 673.2–874.7) compared to females at 604.0 (95% UI 535.0–692.3). The age-standardized prevalence YLD rates increased by 5.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.7–8.5] and 5.9% (95% CI 2.9–9.0) during this period. Ischaemic heart disease emerged as the primary cause of HF, with an age-standardized prevalence rate of 228.3 (95% UI 118.2–279.6), followed by hypertensive heart disease at 148.3 (95% UI 117.3–186.3), and cardiomyopathy/myocarditis at 62.0 (95% UI 51.2–73.2). Noteworthy, countries in the high socio-demographic index (SDI) quintile exhibited higher HF prevalence rates but maintained stable trends. In contrast, countries in lower SDI quintiles, while initially experiencing lower prevalence rates, showed increased age-standardized HF prevalence and YLD rates over the same period.

Conclusion

HF emerges as a significant and growing public health challenge globally, influenced by distinct socioeconomic gradients.
Regulating community well-being through traditional mourning rituals: Insights from the Luhya People of Kenya
Authors: Asatsa Stephen , Lew-Levy Sheina , Ngaari Mbugua Stephen , Ntaragwe Maria , Shanyisa Wilkister , Gichimu Elizabeth , Nambiri Jane , Omuchesi Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Background and objectives

Rituals have been reported to serve as a vital mechanism for expressing grief and fostering communal support worldwide. Despite these benefits, use of rituals in Indigenous communities is threatened by missionization, globalization, and westernization. This study sought to examine the relevance of traditional mourning rituals in community morality and well-being. Anchored in cultural evolutionary theory, the study employed an ethnographic research design.

Methodology

Data were collected from 45 community elders, 30 bereaved adults, 30 bereaved adolescents, and 8 religious leaders through focus group discussions and interviews.

Results

The study established five mourning rituals practiced by the Luhya people, each potentially serving an evolutionary function for community survival and well-being. Our findings show that Luhya traditional mourning rituals play an important role in community well-being, though not all members may benefit equally from these effects.

Conclusions and implications

The study established conflict over rituals with differing viewpoints from religious leaders, cultural leaders, and the western biomedical approach to mental well-being. Yet, the bereaved reported that both Luhya and religious rituals helped them process their grief. To address mental health issues fully, it is important to establish collaboration between western models, religious approaches, and cultural approaches.
Application and challenges of big data analytics in low-carbon indoor space design
Authors: Zeng Henan , Arif Mohd Fuad Md
Published: January 2025

The techniques of big data analysis hold immense potential in optimizing indoor energy consumption and enhancing comfort levels. This paper proposes a predictive method for effectively forecasting energy usage in libraries through a multi-step ahead time series-based long short-term memory-backpropagation model, integrated with building energy consumption sub-metering analysis technology. Experimental results indicate that the proposed multi-input multi-output model significantly outperforms traditional recursive and direct models in terms of predictive performance, adeptly capturing the intricate characteristics and temporal dependencies of energy consumption data, thereby offering a novel technological pathway and practical implications for building energy management.
Low-carbon power demand forecasting models for the performance optimization of new energy robotics systems
Authors: Zhang HuiMing , Zhang CuiFang
Published: January 2025

To improve the performance of new energy-powered robots, a method for optimizing the performance of new energy-powered robots has been proposed, based on a low-carbon power demand forecasting model. The approach advocated leveraging low-carbon power demand to optimize power system design and control strategies. Then, a model for forecasting robotic power demands was established, alongside the refinement of the power system evaluation mechanism. Results indicated a significant correlation between operational parameters linked to low-carbon power demand and system performance. The precision of our model was notably high, enabling the provision of specific performance optimization strategies tailored to diverse low-carbon contexts.
Enhanced Killing of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus With Ceftaroline or Vancomycin in Combination With Carbapenems
Authors: Jankeel Allen , Pérez-Parra Gabriel , Khetarpal Anuj K , Alvarado Ivan A , Nizet Victor , Sakoulas George , Ulloa Erlinda R
Published: January 2025

Background

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteremia is associated with high rates of treatment failure, even when antibiotics showing in vitro susceptibility are used. Early optimization of therapy is crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality. Building on our previous research on carbapenem therapy for methicillin-susceptible S aureus bacteremia, we examined the utility of adjunctive carbapenems (ertapenem or meropenem) to enhance the efficacy of ceftaroline or vancomycin for treatment of MRSA.

Methods

The effectiveness of combination therapy versus monotherapy against MRSA was assessed using checkerboard, time-kill, and human whole blood killing assays, as well as a murine bacteremia model. Additionally, we performed transcriptomic analysis and conducted human platelet and antimicrobial peptide killing assays on MRSA pretreated with subtherapeutic concentrations of ceftaroline and carbapenems. The supernatants from these MRSA isolates were used to treat platelets, and cytotoxicity was assessed via lactate dehydrogenase release assays.

Results

Although not used for MRSA, we identified striking in vitro and in vivo synergy between carbapenems and ceftaroline or vancomycin. MRSA pretreated with subtherapeutic ceftaroline-carbapenem therapy revealed transcriptional shifts indicative of reduced antibiotic resistance, virulence, and host immune evasion. Supernatants from these MRSA isolates also caused less platelet injury compared to monotherapy. Furthermore, MRSA pretreated with ceftaroline and carbapenems demonstrated increased susceptibility to killing by human platelets and the antimicrobial peptide LL-37.

Conclusions

The therapeutic success of adjunctive carbapenems appears driven by multiple mechanisms, including direct drug–drug synergy with first-line anti-MRSA agents, attenuation of resistance and virulence factors, and enhancement of immune-mediated killing, each warranting further investigation.
CCL17 Influences Borrelia burgdorferi Infection in the Heart
Authors: Tang Xiaotian , Yu Qian , Cui Yingjun , Hart Thomas M , Rivas-Giorgi Freddie , Calloway Keith , Mohapatra Amrita Ray , Fikrig Erol
Published: January 2025

Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, is transmitted to humans by Ixodes ticks. CCL17 is a potent chemokine that plays important roles in diverse illnesses, including autoimmune and infectious diseases. CCL17 knockout mice, infected with B. burgdorferi, had a reduced pathogen load in the heart compared to control animals. Mice lacking CCL17 also showed signs of immune alteration upon B. burgdorferi infection, including diverse serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines and less monocytes and macrophages infiltration. CCL17 also interacts directly with B. burgdorferi, the first demonstration that this chemokine has an affinity for a vector-borne pathogen.
Effects of combined Bacillus coagulans and Yeast fermentation culture on growth performance, plasma biochemical indices, intestinal morphology and microbial of broilers
Authors: Zi Qiongtao , Zhu Shenglan , Li Peng , Liao Yongmin , Chen Dong , He Changqing , Guo Songchang , Zou Xiaoyan
Published: January 2025

The favorable impacts of Bacillus coagulans or Yeast culture on broiler production performance and immune function have been acknowledged. However, the effects of the combined of them (BcYc) on the broilers remained unknown. Thus, the current research aimed to assess the effects of BcYc (at dosages of 0, 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg) on growth performance, plasma biochemical indices, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal morphology and microbial composition in broilers. The results revealed that ①broilers receiving 300 and 400 mg/kg of BcYc showed significantly higher body weights than the control group at 4d and 21d (P < 0.05). Additionally, when contrasted with the control group, the feed conversion ratio was significantly decreased in 300 mg/kg group during 4 to 21d and in 400 mg/kg group during 4 to 42d (P < 0.05). ②At 21d, the broilers supplemented with 300 and 400 mg/kg of BcYc demonstrated significantly elevated levels of albumin (ALB), glutathione peroxidase activity (GSH-Px), total antioxidant capacity, and catalase activity than the group that not supplemented with BcYc (P < 0.05). At 42d, 400 mg/kg group showed significantly higher ALB and total protein, and lower glutamic-pyruvic transaminase activity and malondialdehyde content in contrast to the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, at 42d, GSH-Px activity in all experimental groups showed significantly higher compared to the control group (P < 0.05). ③Nevertheless, no significant variation was observed neither in jejunum or duodenum morphology among all groups (P > 0.05). ④Adding 400 mg/kg of BcYc led to a significantly higher Sobs index and a lower Simpson index (P < 0.05), and an extremely significantly raised in Shannon index (P < 0.01), while adding 300 mg/kg of BcYc led to a significantly enhanced in Shannon index (P < 0.05). Additionally, supplementary BcYc significantly elevated the abundance of Firmicutes in phylum level, and Clostridia, Ruminococcus, Rikenella, Butyricicoccus and Eubacterium in genus level (P < 0.05). To sum up, supplementing BcYc at dosages of 400 mg/kg to yellow-feathered broilers diet can help improve the growth performance, regulate plasma biochemical indicators, increase antioxidant capacity, and improve gut community composition.
Genomic analysis of mobility measures on 5-month-old gilts associated with structural soundness
Authors: Ostrand Lexi M , Rempel Lea A , Keel Brittney N , Snelling Warren M , Schmidt Ty B , Psota Eric T , Mote Benny E , Rohrer Gary A
Published: January 2025

Sow lameness results in premature culling, causing economic loss and well-being issues. A study, utilizing a pressure-sensing mat (GAIT4) and video monitoring system (NUtrack), was conducted to identify objective measurements on gilts that are predictive of future lameness. Gilts (N = 3656) were categorized to describe their lifetime soundness: SOUND, retained for breeding with no detected mobility issues; LAME_SOW, retained for breeding and detected lame as a sow; CULL_STR, not retained due to poor leg structure; LAME_GILT, not retained due to visible signs of lameness; and CULL, not retained due to reasons other than leg structure. The GAIT4 system creates a series of measurements for each hoof and a lameness score (GLS) while NUtrack records animal movement and posture durations each day. To determine if measurements from the GAIT4 and NUtrack systems were associated with lifetime soundness, mixed model analyses were conducted in R including fixed effects of breed of sire, contemporary group and lifetime soundness score and random effect of animal. A second mixed model was run without lifetime soundness score and estimates of animal effects were then used to conduct ssGBLUP analyses using 3 generations of pedigree and genotypes from ~50k SNP on > 60% of phenotyped animals. Genomic heritabilities were estimated, SNP effects were back-solved and significance based on Bonferroni corrected permutation tests. GAIT4 traits indicative of lameness (LAME_GILT and CULL_STR vs SOUND; P < 0.05) were the standard deviation of GLS, average stride length, and average stance time, while significant NUtrack measurements were eating, standing, lateral lying, total lying, speed, distance, and rotations. In addition, rotations differed (P < 0.05) between SOUND vs LAME_SOW and distance tended to be different (P < 0.10). Estimates of heritability for predictive NUtrack traits were ~0.3 and GAIT4 traits were ~0.2. There were 382 significant SNP effects in 47 genomic regions, four regions on chromosomes 1, 4, 11 and 14 accounted for over 60% of the associations. Genome-level imputed genotypes linked several regions with possible causative genes. Objective measurements from the GAIT4 and NUtrack systems at 5 months of age were heritable, able to detect unsound animals, and were associated with lifetime soundness.
Assessing Physician Assistant Students’ Ability to Accurately Identify the Regional Landmarks of the Fascia Iliaca Compartment With Point of Care Ultrasound After a Brief Training Session
Authors: Shelstad Heidi L , Ostrom Sarah J , Perdue Matthew J , Fritts Nathan R , Villalobos Danny
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Regional anesthesia, specifically fascia iliaca compartment blocks (FICB), is highly effective in managing pain, especially in military settings. However, a significant barrier to its implementation is the lack of provider confidence in performing ultrasound-guided procedures. This study evaluates the ability of physician assistant (PA) students, who are often first-line providers in austere locations, to identify the fascia iliaca compartment (FIC) using point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) after a brief training session and assesses their retention of this skill over a 60- to 90-day period.

Methods

We conducted this prospective observational study involving 10 PA students at an Air Force hospital. Participants underwent a brief training course on FIC identification using POCUS. Their ability to identify 4 anatomical landmarks (fascia iliaca, fascia lata, iliopsoas muscle, and femoral artery) was assessed immediately post-training and again after 60 to 90 days.

Results

Initially, participants demonstrated a high success rate in identifying the FIC, with 47 out of 60 attempts (78%) correctly identified. However, follow-up evaluations showed a significant decline, with only 7 out of 54 attempts (13%) correctly identified after 60 to 90 days (P < .001). Identification rates for specific landmarks also declined significantly, except for the femoral artery, which remained the most accurately identified landmark.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that PA students can accurately identify the FIC using POCUS after a brief training session. However, there was a significant decline in skill retention over a 60- to 90-day period, underscoring the need for continuous education and practice to sustain proficiency. Further research with larger sample sizes and diverse settings is needed to develop effective training protocols and ensure long-term retention of U.S.-guided procedural skills.
Development and validation of a molecular classifier of meningiomas
Authors: Landry Alexander P , Wang Justin Z , Liu Jeff , Patil Vikas , Gui Chloe , Patel Zeel , Ajisebutu Andrew , Ellenbogen Yosef , Wei Qingxia , Singh Olivia , Sosa Julio , Mansouri Sheila , Wilson Christopher , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A , Zaazoue Mohamed A , Tabatabai Ghazaleh , Tatagiba Marcos , Behling Felix , Barnholtz-Sloan Jill S , Sloan Andrew E , Chotai Silky , Chambless Lola B , Rebchuk Alexander D , Makarenko Serge , Yip Stephen , Mansouri Alireza , Tsang Derek S , Aldape Kenneth , Gao Andrew ,   The International Consortium on Meningiomas (ICOM), Nassiri Farshad , Zadeh Gelareh
Published: January 2025

Background

Meningiomas exhibit considerable clinical and biological heterogeneity. We previously identified 4 distinct molecular groups (immunogenic, NF2-wildtype, hypermetabolic, and proliferative) that address much of this heterogeneity. Despite the utility of these groups, the stochasticity of clustering methods and the use of multi-omics data for discovery limits the potential for classifying prospective cases. We sought to address this with a dedicated classifier.

Methods

Using an international cohort of 1698 meningiomas, we constructed and rigorously validated a machine learning-based molecular classifier using only DNA methylation data as input. Original and newly predicted molecular groups were compared using DNA methylation, RNA sequencing, copy number profiles, whole-exome sequencing, and clinical outcomes.

Results

We show that group-specific outcomes in the validation cohort are nearly identical to those originally described, with median progression-free survival (PFS) of 7.4 (4.9–Inf) years in hypermetabolic tumors and 2.5 (2.3–5.3) years in proliferative tumors (not reached in the other groups). Tumors classified as NF2-wildtype had no NF2 mutations, and 51.4% had canonical mutations previously described in this group. RNA pathway analysis revealed upregulation of immune-related pathways in the immunogenic group, metabolic pathways in the hypermetabolic group, and cell cycle programs in the proliferative group. Bulk deconvolution similarly revealed the enrichment of macrophages in immunogenic tumors and neoplastic cells in hypermetabolic and proliferative tumors with similar proportions to those originally described.

Conclusions

Our DNA methylation-based classifier, which is publicly available for immediate clinical use, recapitulates the biology and outcomes of the original molecular groups as assessed using multiple metrics/platforms that were not used in its training.
Effect of Total and Partial Meal Replacements on Factors Related to Glucose Metabolism: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Maddahi Niloofar Sadat , Sohouli Mohammad Hassan , Izze da Silva Magalhães Elma , Ezoddin Neda , Nadjarzadeh Azadeh
Published: January 2025

Context

Although some evidence shows the beneficial effects of meal replacements (MRs) on glucose metabolism as one of the main factors of diabetes, there are still no comprehensive findings in this field.

Objective

We investigated the effects of total and partial MRs on fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in this comprehensive study and meta-analysis.

Data Sources

To find pertinent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to March 2024, databases including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase were searched.

Data Extraction

This study included all RCTs investigating the effects of MRs on factors related to glucose metabolism. The pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CIs were computed using the random-effects model.

Data Analysis

The findings from 52 studies indicated significant reductions in FBS (WMD: –3.10 mg/dL; 95% CI: –4.99, –1.20; P < .001), insulin (WMD: –1.79 μU/mL; 95% CI: –3.51, –0.08; P = .40), HOMA-IR (WMD: –0.86; 95% CI: –1.68, –0.04; P = .040), and HbA1c (WMD: –0.24%; 95% CI: –0.35%, –0.13%; P < .001) levels following MR consumption compared with the control group. The findings obtained from the subgroup analysis showed that MRs cause a greater decrease in FBS, insulin, and HOMA-IR in the >50-years age group compared with those aged ≤50 years and also during interventions ≤24 weeks compared with >24 weeks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it appears that MRs, along with other lifestyle factors, can lead to significant improvements in glucose metabolism.
Evaluating fiscal supports on the public–private partnerships: a hidden risk for contract survival
Authors: Nose Manabu
Published: January 2025

While public–private partnerships (PPPs) have the potential of bridging infrastructure gaps in developing countries, frequent contract renegotiations and terminations pose significant fiscal challenges. This article investigates whether government fiscal risk-taking—through guarantees or subsidies—along with the strength of underlying fiscal institutions can explain the high incidence of contract distress. Employing matching and a control function method, the analysis reveals that the contract hazard ratio increases by a factor of 3 when government guarantees are issued for PPPs. Furthermore, using a causal survival forest model, it assesses treatment effect heterogeneity of the fiscal supports. The results show that the risk of contract disputes is most pronounced in developing countries at the bottom quintile of public investment management capacity. These findings underscore the critical role of robust infrastructure governance as a prerequisite for effectively leveraging the benefits of PPPs.
Integrating multi-scale terrestrial and atmospheric predictors enhances nocturnal bird migration forecasts
Authors: Jimenez Miguel F , Khalighifar Ali , Burt Carolyn S , Black Cheyenne A , Leόn-Corwin Maggie , Fox Andrew S , Jenkins-Smith Hank C , Silva Carol L , Trankina Grace E , Kelly Jeffrey F , Horton Kyle G
Published: January 2025

Our ability to forecast the spatial and temporal patterns of ecological processes at continental scales has drastically improved over the past decade. Yet, predicting ecological patterns at broad scales while capturing fine-scale processes is a central challenge of ecological forecasting given the inherent tension between grain and extent, whereby enhancing one often diminishes the other. We leveraged 10 years of terrestrial and atmospheric data (2012–2021) to develop a high-resolution (2.9 × 2.9 km), radar-driven bird migration forecast model for a highly active region of the Mississippi flyway. Based on the suite of candidate models we examined, adding terrestrial predictors improved model performance only marginally, whereas spatially distant atmospheric predictors, particularly air temperature and wind speed from focal and distant regions, were major contributors to our top model, explaining 56% of variation in regional migration activity. Among terrestrial predictors, which ranked considerably lower than atmospheric predictors in terms of variable importance, vegetation phenology, artificial light at night, and percent of forest cover were the most important predictors. Furthermore, we scale this model to demonstrate the capacity to generate real-time, high-resolution forecasts for the continental United States that explained up to 65% of national variation. Our study demonstrates an approach for increasing the resolution of migration forecasts, which could facilitate the integration of radar with other data sources and inform dynamic conservation efforts at a local scale that is more relevant to threats, such as anthropogenic light at night.
Economic Change, Silver, and the Plague of 664–687 in England
Authors: Naismith Rory
Published: January 2025

Bede and other authors describe a destructive wave of plague sweeping across Britain and Ireland in the period 664–87. In the decades around and after this time, the English kingdoms saw rapid economic changes as urban settlements grew, monasteries were founded, and a large silver currency appeared. Here, it is proposed that these developments were influenced by the effects of the plague. Exact levels of mortality are uncertain, but the survivors may have had the capacity to produce more, and more diverse, goods. Relatively weak seigneurial powers on the part of landlords meant that non-elite cultivators became a more important economic constituency in these circumstances, while elites turned in two directions: to development of small but intensively worked central farms, and to liquidation of large stocks of silver, which enabled them to profit by engaging with a diverse body of partners. This liquidation took the form of a much expanded currency of silver pennies, which provides a case-study of monetization as an important yet comparatively short-term economic change.
Beyond Place: Network Effects Versus Jurisdiction and Sovereignty
Authors: Szigeti Péter D
Published: January 2025

Anxieties about the viability and future of the liberal international order have been multiplying in both scholarly discussions and the popular press. But what does the “coming apart of the liberal international order” actually mean? Some commentators point to sanctions and tariffs that are destroying free trade; and some are focusing on democratic backsliding, the rise of populism and the crumbling of human rights protections (especially in international migration). An arguably more fundamental, and equally worrying, shift is discussed in three recent books: the end of territorial jurisdiction, and with it, a deep uncertainty in what independence, sovereign equality, nonintervention, self-determination, and other fundamental concepts of peaceful coexistence can mean in the twenty-first century. Because thirty or so banks control almost all of international finance and the United States controls the dollar and the hegemonic currency of international trade, the difference between territorial jurisdiction and extraterritorial jurisdiction has disappeared in global trade and finance, as well. Henry Farrell and Abraham Newman provide a readable and popular introduction; Pierre-Hugues Verdier explains in detail the mechanisms of international financial law; and Cornelia Woll tries to integrate these events into legal theory and doctrine.
Review Article: Why Does Putinism Endure? Dialoguing With the Dictator
Authors: Stoner Kathryn
Published: January 2025

Vladimir Putin has been the undisputed leader of Russia (either as president or prime minister) for almost 25 years. Barring an accident or assassination, Putin seems almost certain to surpass Joseph Stalin's record long reign over the Soviet Union of 29 years. The durability of Putin's regime comes despite a record of endemic corruption, poor governance, economic growth that gave way to recession, a poorly managed COVID response, and a disastrous invasion of a peaceful neighbor in 2022. Despite all of this, Putin endures. How does he do it? A new book by Hannah Chapman, Dialogue with the Dictator: Authoritarian Legitimation and Information Management in Putin's Russia is a welcome addition to a lengthening list of recent studies seeking to explain the resilience and potential vulnerabilities of authoritarianism and of Putin's regime in particular. In one way or another, all of these books focus on the question that also puzzles Russia's opposition politicians: Why is Putin's autocracy so resilient? Chapman offers one answer in exploring the ways in which his regime uses “participatory technologies” to not only enhance regime legitimacy from Russian society but also to control what information reaches Russian citizens. This article reviews her book in the context of other recent studies of how Putin's autocracy works and why it has lasted so long.
Finite Sample Inference for the Maximum Score Estimand
Authors: Rosen Adam M , Ura Takuya
Published: January 2025

We provide a finite sample inference method for the structural parameters of the semiparametric binary response model under a conditional median restriction originally studied by Manski (1975, 1985). This is achieved by exploiting distributional properties of observable outcomes conditional on the observed sequence of exogenous variables. Moment inequalities conditional on the size n sequence of exogenous covariates are constructed, and the proposed test statistic is a monotone function of violations of the corresponding sample moment inequalities. The critical value used for inference is provided by the appropriate quantile of a known function of n independent Bernoulli random variables, and does not require the use of a cube root asymptotic approximation employing a point estimator of the target parameter. Simulation studies demonstrate favorable finite sample performance of the test in comparison to several existing approaches. Empirical use is illustrated with an application to the classical setting of transportation choice.