bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuning MOF/polymer interfacial pore geometry in mixed matrix membrane for upgrading CO
2
separation performance
Authors: Ozcan Aydin , Fan Dong , Datta Shuvo Jit , Diaz-Marquez Alejandro , Semino Rocio , Cheng Youdong , Joarder Biplab , Eddaoudi Mohamed , Maurin Guillaume
Published: July 2024

The current paradigm considers the control of the MOF/polymer interface mostly for achieving a good compatibility between the two components to ensure the fabrication of continuous mixed-matrix metal-organic framework (MMMOF) membranes. Here, we unravel that the interfacial pore shape nanostructure plays a key role for an optimum molecular transport. The prototypical ultrasmall pore AlFFIVE-1-Ni MOF was assembled with the polymer PIM-1 to design a composite with gradually expanding pore from the MOF entrance to the MOF/polymer interfacial region. Concentration gradient–driven molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that this pore nanostructuring enables an optimum guided path for the gas molecules at the MOF/polymer interface that decisively leads to an acceleration of the molecular transport all along the MMMOF membrane. This numerical prediction resulted in the successful fabrication of a [001]-oriented nanosheets AlFFIVE-1-Ni/PIM-1 MMMOF membrane exhibiting an excellent CO
2
permeability, better than many MMMs, and ideally associated with a sufficiently high CO
2
/CH
4
selectivity that makes this membrane very promising for natural gas/biogas purification.
Measurement of iron absorption and iron gains from birth to 6 months in breastfed and formula-fed infants using iron isotope dilution
Authors: Stoffel Nicole U. , Cepeda-López Ana Carla , Zeder Christophe , Herter-Aeberli Isabelle , Zimmermann Michael B.
Published: July 2024

Little is known about iron kinetics in early infancy. We administered stable iron isotopes to pregnant women and used maternal-fetal iron transfer to enrich newborn body iron. Dilution of enriched body iron by dietary iron with natural isotopic composition was used to assess iron kinetics from birth to 6 months. In breastfed (BF, n = 8), formula-fed (FF, n = 7), or mixed feeding (MF, n = 8) infants, median (interquartile range) iron intake was 0.27, 11.19 (10.46–15.55), and 4.13 (2.33–6.95) mg/day; iron absorbed was 0.128 (0.095–0.180), 0.457 (0.374–0.617), and 0.391 (0.283–0.473) mg/day (BF versus FF, P < 0.01); and total iron gains were 0.027 (−0.002–0.055), 0.349 (0.260–0.498), and 0.276 (0.175–0.368) mg/day (BF versus FF, P < 0.001; BF versus MF, P < 0.05). Isotope dilution can quantify long-term iron absorption and describe the trajectory of iron depletion during early infancy.
Glass transition temperature as a unified parameter to design self-healable elastomers
Authors: Park Jae-Man , Park Chang Seo , Kwak Sang Kyu , Sun Jeong-Yun
Published: July 2024

Self-healing ability of materials, particularly polymers, improves their functional stabilities and lifespan. To date, the designs for self-healable polymers have relied on specific intermolecular interactions or chemistries. We report a design methodology for self-healable polymers based on glass transition. Statistical copolymer series of two monomers with different glass transition temperatures (
T
g
) were synthesized, and their self-healing tendency depends on the
T
g
of the copolymers and the constituents. Self-healing occurs more efficiently when the difference in
T
g
between two monomer units is larger, within a narrow
T
g
range of the copolymers, irrespective of their functional groups. The self-healable copolymers are elastomeric and nonpolar. The strategy to graft glass transition onto self-healing would expand the scope of polymer design.
Geography versus sociodemographics as predictors of changes in daily mobility across the USA during the COVID-19 pandemic: a two-stage regression analysis across 26 metropolitan areas
Authors: Schaber Kathryn , Arambepola Rohan , Schluth Catherine , Labrique Alain B , Mehta Shruti H , Solomon Sunil S , Cummings Derek A T , Wesolowski Amy
Published: July 2024

Objective

We investigated whether a zip code’s location or demographics are most predictive of changes in daily mobility throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

We used a population-level study to examine the predictability of daily mobility during the COVID-19 pandemic using a two-stage regression approach, where generalised additive models (GAM) predicted mobility trends over time at a large spatial level, then the residuals were used to determine which factors (location, zip code-level features or number of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in place) best predict the difference between a zip code’s measured mobility and the average trend on a given date.

Setting

We analyse zip code-level mobile phone records from 26 metropolitan areas in the USA on 15 March–31 September 2020, relative to October 2020.

Results

While relative mobility had a general trend, a zip code’s city-level location significantly helped to predict its daily mobility patterns. This effect was time-dependent, with a city’s deviation from general mobility trends differing in both direction and magnitude throughout the course of 2020. The characteristics of a zip code further increased predictive power, with the densest zip codes closest to a city centre tended to have the largest decrease in mobility. However, the effect on mobility change varied by city and became less important over the course of the pandemic.

Conclusions

The location and characteristics of a zip code are important for determining changes in daily mobility patterns throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. These results can determine the efficacy of NPI implementation on multiple spatial scales and inform policy makers on whether certain NPIs should be implemented or lifted during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and when preparing for future public health emergencies.
To play or not to play, that is the question: an interview study with amateur football coaches on perceptions of pain during sports participation
Authors: Sonesson Sofi , Lindblom Hanna , Hägglund Martin
Published: July 2024

Amateur football coaches play a key role in preventing, assessing and treating pain among their players, as they are often the first point of contact and may be the main source of advice and guidance. The objective of this study was to explore amateur football coaches’ perceptions of pain during sports participation and their approach to pain management. We conducted a qualitative interview study with 20 amateur football coaches from a strategically selected sample of male and female, and junior and senior teams. A semistructured interview guide and conventional qualitative content analysis were used. One overall theme emerged:To play or not to play—coaches navigating difficult terrain with limited resources. The theme included four main categories:How can pain be understood?; Can pain be avoided?; How to manage players with pain?; What resources do we need?Different ways of understanding pain emerged, and coaches described that players have different pain thresholds. Pain was seen as a part of the game that cannot be completely avoided. In general, there was a restrictive attitude regarding pain medication, though actual consumption was not known. Coaches emphasised shared responsibility with players to achieve adequate training loads, a positive communication climate surrounding pain, and a need for education and competence. In conclusion, coaches expressed various interpretations of pain during sports participation and pain management, where they need to take on great responsibility despite limited medical competence. Coaches believed that adequate pain management is important, and their keys to reducing the risk of pain included structured and customised training, a well-balanced training load and recovery, and a positive communication climate in the team. Coaches often decide whether players experiencing pain can participate in team training and match play, emphasising the need for education support and access to medical competence.
Shift in house price estimates during COVID-19 reveals effect of crisis on collective speculation
Authors: Petersen Alexander M.
Published: July 2024

We exploit a city-level panel comprised of individual house price estimates to estimate the impact of COVID-19 on both small and big real-estate markets in California USA. Descriptive analysis of spot house price estimates, including contemporaneous price uncertainty and 30-day price change for individual properties listed on the online real-estate platform Zillow.com, together facilitate quantifying both the excess valuation and valuation confidence attributable to this global socio-economic shock. Our quasi-experimental pre-/post-COVID-19 design spans several years around 2020 and leverages contemporaneous price estimates of rental properties – i.e., off-market real estate entering the habitation market, just not for purchase and hence free of speculation – as an appropriate counterfactual to properties listed for sale, which are subject to on-market speculation. Combining unit-level matching and multivariate difference-in-difference regression approaches, we obtain consistent estimates regarding the sign and magnitude of excess price growth observed after the pandemic onset. Specifically, our results indicate that properties listed for sale appreciated an additional 1% per month above what would be expected in the absence of the pandemic. This corresponds to an excess annual price growth of roughly 12.7 percentage points, which accounts for more than half of the actual annual price growth in 2021 observed across the studied regions. Simultaneously, uncertainty in price estimates decreased, signaling the irrational confidence characteristic of prior asset bubbles. We explore how these two trends are related to market size, local market supply and borrowing costs, which altogether lend support for the counterintuitive roles of uncertainty and interruptions in decision-making.
An Improvement for Error-Correcting Pairs of Some Special MDS Codes
Authors: Xiao Rui , Liao Qunying
Published: July 2024

The error-correcting pair is a general algebraic decoding method for linear codes. Since every linear code is contained in an MDS linear code with the same minimum distance over some finite field extensions, we focus on MDS linear codes. Recently, He and Liao showed that for an MDS linear code [Formula: see text] with minimum distance [Formula: see text], if it has an [Formula: see text]-error-correcting pair, then the parameters of the pair have three possibilities. Moreover, for the first case, they gave a necessary condition for an MDS linear code [Formula: see text] with minimum distance [Formula: see text] to have an [Formula: see text]-error-correcting pair, and for the other two cases, they only gave some counterexamples. For the second case, in this paper, we give a necessary condition for an MDS linear code [Formula: see text] with minimum distance [Formula: see text] to have an [Formula: see text]-error-correcting pair, and then basing on the Product Singleton Bound, we prove that there are two cases for such pairs, and then give some counterexamples basing on twisted generalized Reed–Solomon codes for these cases.
Eulerian and Hamiltonian Soft Semigraphs
Authors: George Bobin , Jose Jinta , Thumbakara Rajesh K.
Published: July 2024

Soft set theory is a mathematical approach to address the challenges of handling vague or uncertain information. It is a more advanced version of classical set theory that deals with imprecise elements and enables the flexible representation of uncertain data. It involves categorizing the elements of the universe based on specific parameters. Semigraph is a generalization of a graph which is different from a hypergraph. A hypergraph extends the concept of a graph by allowing any subset of vertices to form an edge. Semigraphs, on the other hand, distinguish themselves from hypergraphs by imposing a specific order on the vertices within each edge. Soft semigraphs were developed using the principles of soft set theory applied to semigraphs. This study introduces Eulerian and Hamiltonian soft semigraphs. We establish a necessary and sufficient condition for a soft semigraph to be Eulerian, relying on parameters such as [Formula: see text]-part consecutive adjacent degree, [Formula: see text]-part end degree, and the [Formula: see text]-part consecutive adjacency graph. Additionally, we provide the conditions for a soft semigraph to be Hamiltonian. We introduce the concept of maximal non-Hamiltonian [Formula: see text]-part. Finally, we define the closure of a soft semigraph and demonstrate the relationship between a Hamiltonian soft semigraph and its closure.
A glimpse into the magical world of quantum gravity
Authors: Hod Shahar
Published: July 2024

In this essay, it is proven that, in a self-consistent semiclassical theory of gravity, the asymptotically measured orbital periods of test particles around central compact objects are fundamentally bounded from below by the compact universal relation [Formula: see text] [here [Formula: see text] are, respectively, the proper mass and the electric charge of the electron, the lightest charged particle]. The explicit dependence of the lower bound on the fundamental constants [Formula: see text] of gravity, special relativity, and quantum theory suggests that it provides a rare glimpse into the yet unknown quantum theory of gravity.
Cross-model Fairness: Empirical Study of Fairness and Ethics Under Model Multiplicity
Authors: Sokol Kacper , Kull Meelis , Chan Jeffrey , Salim Flora
Published: July 2024

While data-driven predictive models are a strictly technological construct, they may operate within a social context in which benign engineering choices entail implicit, indirect, and unexpected real-life consequences. Fairness of such systems—pertaining both to individuals and groups—is one relevant consideration in this space; algorithms can discriminate people across various
protected
characteristics, regardless of whether these properties are included in the data or discernible through proxy variables. To date, this notion has predominantly been studied for a
fixed
model, often under different classification thresholds, striving to identify and eradicate undesirable, discriminative, and possibly unlawful aspects of its operation. Here, we backtrack on this fixed model assumption to propose and explore a novel definition of
cross-model fairness
where individuals can be harmed when one predictor is chosen ad hoc from a group of equally well-performing models, i.e., in view of utility-based
model multiplicity
. Since a person may be classified differently across models that are otherwise considered equivalent, this individual could argue for a predictor granting them the most favourable outcome, employing which may have adverse effects on other people. We introduce this scenario with a two-dimensional example and linear classification; then, we present a comprehensive empirical study based on real-life predictive models and datasets that are popular with the algorithmic fairness community; finally, we investigate analytical properties of cross-model fairness and its ramifications in a broader context. Our findings suggest that such unfairness can be readily found in real life, and it may be difficult to mitigate by technical means alone, as doing so is likely to degrade predictive performance.
Navigating the EU AI Act Maze using a Decision-Tree Approach
Authors: Hanif Hilmy , Constantino Jorge , Sekwenz Marie-Therese , van Eeten Michel , Ubacht Jolien , Wagner Ben , Zhauniarovich Yury
Published: July 2024

The AI Act represents a significant legislative effort by the European Union to govern the use of AI systems according to different risk-related classes, imposing different degrees of compliance obligations to users and providers of AI systems. However, it is often critiqued due to the lack of general public comprehension and effectiveness regarding the classification of AI systems to the corresponding risk classes. To mitigate these shortcomings, we propose a Decision Tree–based framework aimed at increasing legal compliance and classification clarity. By performing a quantitative evaluation, we show that our framework is especially beneficial to individuals without a legal background, allowing them to enhance the accuracy and speed of AI system classification according to the AI Act. The qualitative study results show that the framework is helpful to all participants, allowing them to justify intuitively made decisions and making the classification process clearer.
Knowledge on Chemical Pesticide use among Farmers Exposed to Pesticides in Panchkhal Municipality, Kavrepalanchok, Nepal
Authors: Paudel Leela , Neupane Rajendra , Shrestha Lochana , Budhathoki Lee , Paudel Keshav Raj
Published: July 2024

Background. Pesticide exposure is a serious threat to public health in developing countries like Nepal. As an agricultural country, farmers are using pesticides indiscriminately to increase the yield of crops, which results in continued contamination of the environment and food and has adverse effects on human health. This study aims to assess the knowledge and evaluate the relationship between pesticide use knowledge and pesticide toxicity symptoms among farmers in Panchkhal Municipality. Materials and Methods. A cross‐sectional study design was used among 238 farmers (both male and female) exposed to pesticides for a minimum of 1 year. The data collection period was from April to June 2022. The data were collected using convenient sampling through interviews. Semistructured questionnaires were used as a tool for data collection. This study has been approved by the ethics committee. Data entry and analysis were done in SPSS version 16.00. Bivariate analysis was done using the Chi‐square test. Results. The mean age ± SD of the participants was 45.75 ± 13.12 years. The mean year of exposure was 15.52 ± 9.46 years, and the mean duration of working in the field was 3.22 ± 2.17 hr/day. Burning eye (51.2%) was the most common symptom of pesticide poisoning. The most common pesticide used was insecticide. Most farmers (92.4%) had good knowledge of the use of pesticides. There was no significant association between the symptoms of pesticide exposure and knowledge. Those who stored the pesticide properly in a locked container in a well‐ventilated area showed a significant association with knowledge of pesticide use (P ≤ 0.001). Conclusion. This study showed that most farmers have good knowledge of pesticide use. Still, educational programs and legislation promoting the use of safer pesticides are needed because they are the ones who handle and use chemical pesticides. Furthermore, the government should conduct training on the safe management of pesticide use.
Transdiagnostic Psychological Interventions for Symptoms of Common Mental Disorders Delivered by Non‐Specialist Providers in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ó hAnrachtaigh Éanna , Brown Gary , Beck Andrew , Conway Rebecca , Jones Hattie , Angelakis Ioannis
Published: July 2024

There is a treatment gap for Common Mental Disorders (CMDs) such as anxiety, depression, and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as non‐specific psychological distress (NPD) in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LAMIC), due to the lack of available clinicians and locally appropriate interventions. Task‐shifting using non‐specialist providers (NSP) and transdiagnostic approaches may address this. Transdiagnostic approaches can be effective at treating CMDs and NPD in high‐income countries (HIC), but currently, there is no comprehensive synthesis of evidence regarding their effectiveness in LAMICs. This review addressed this gap by examining the effectiveness of transdiagnostic psychological interventions for symptoms of CMDs and NPD delivered by NSPs in LAMICs. Three databases were searched (Embase, PsycInfo, and PubMed). Hedge’s g’s were calculated using random‐effect models to correct for small sample bias. Twenty‐one transdiagnostic interventions across 20 studies were included. Moderate reductions at posttreatment were found in psychological distress (g = −0.64; 95% CI: −0.81 to −0.46), symptoms of anxiety (g = −0.61; 95% CI: −0.80 to −0.42), depression (g = −0.59; 95% CI: −0.75 to −0.44), and PTSD/trauma (g = −0.38; 95% CI: −0.59 to −0.16), with significant small reductions maintained at follow‐up ranging from 13 to 26 weeks for NPD (SMD = − 0.37; 95% CI: −0.57 to −0.17), anxiety (g = − 0.41; 95% CI: −0.91 to 0.09), depression (g = −0.38; 95% CI: −0.59 to −0.16), and trauma symptoms (g = −0.23; 95% CI: −0.42 to −0.05). These findings are important and suggest that transdiagnostic approaches delivered by NSPs are effective at treating symptoms of CMDs and NPD in LAMICs. Future research should consider comparing task‐shifting approaches with disorder‐specific interventions and explore the effectiveness of longer sessions across various mental health conditions.
Hyperreflective Dots in Central Fovea Visualized by a Novel Application of Visible‐Light Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Krause Michael A. , Grannonico Marta , Tyler Brooke P. , Miller David A. , Fan Weijia , Liu Mingna , Kuranov Roman V. , Zhang Hao F. , Liu Xiaorong , Netland Peter A.
Published: July 2024

Visible‐light optical coherence tomography (vis‐OCT) is a novel noninvasive retinal imaging system that offers improved resolution compared to conventional near‐infrared (NIR) OCT systems. Here, we utilized vis‐OCT to produce fibergrams (vis‐OCTF) for the first time in human patients, enabling en face visualization and precise quantification of hyperreflective dots in the central fovea in two patients. We also directly compare the imaging qualities of conventional vis‐OCT and NIR‐OCT. Vis‐OCT generated a 3 × 3 mm2 en face image with an impressive axial resolution of 1.3 μm, whereas NIR‐OCT produced an en face image with a larger field of view (FOV) (9 × 9 mm2) but a lower resolution of 7.0 μm. Moreover, vis‐OCTF unveiled clear images of hyperreflective dots in the fovea of both patients, which were not discernible in the NIR‐OCT en face images. Foveal dots have often been linked to several age‐related and pathological conditions. The high‐resolution images generated by vis‐OCTF enable more precise characterization of changes in retinal sublayers within the central fovea.
A Clinical Trial Shows Improvement in Skin Collagen, Hydration, Elasticity, Wrinkles, Scalp, and Hair Condition following 12‐Week Oral Intake of a Supplement Containing Hydrolysed Collagen
Authors: Reilly David M. , Kynaston Liane , Naseem Salma , Proudman Eva , Laceby Darcy
Published: July 2024

Background. Hydrolysed collagen supplements are reported to fight the signs of aging and improve skin appearance, but more authoritative clinical evidence is needed to support efficacy. Aim. This randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study evaluated the efficacy of a supplement containing hydrolysed collagen and vitamin C (Absolute Collagen, AC) on biophysical parameters and visible signs of aging for skin, scalp, and hair, when taken daily or every 48 hours. Methods. We measured dermal collagen using confocal microscopy and high‐resolution ultrasound. Hydration, elasticity, wrinkles, and clinical trichoscopy were measured in parallel to expert visual grading. Efficacy measures were recorded at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Results. Following 12 weeks daily use of the AC supplement, using confocal microscopy, we observed a significant 44.6% decrease in fragmentation vs. placebo (p < 0.01). We also measured a change in the ultrasound LEP (low echogenic pixel) ratio comparing upper and lower dermis (−9.24 vs. −7.83, respectively, p = 0.05), suggesting collagen improvements occurred more in the upper dermal compartment. After 12 weeks vs. placebo, skin hydration was increased by 13.8% (p < 0.01), R2 elasticity index was increased by 22.7% (p<0.01), and Rz profilometry index was decreased by 19.6% (p < 0.01). Trichoscopy showed an average 11.0% improvement in scalp scaling and a 27.6% increase in the total number of hairs counted vs. placebo (p = n.s.). This was associated with a 31.9% increase in clinical grading score for hair healthy appearance (p < 0.01). Conclusion. The AC supplement has shown clinical benefits for skin, scalp, and hair, when used either daily or every 48 hours, over a 12‐week period.
Supplementary Data from The Tumor Microbiome Reacts to Hypoxia and Can Influence Response to Radiation Treatment in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Benej Martin , Hoyd Rebecca , Kreamer McKenzie , Wheeler Caroline E. , Grencewicz Dennis J. , Choueiry Fouad , Chan Carlos H.F. , Zakharia Yousef , Ma Qin , Dodd Rebecca D. , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Hardikar Sheetal , Churchman Michelle L. , Tarhini Ahmad A. , Robinson Lary A. , Singer Eric A. , Ikeguchi Alexandra P. , McCarter Martin D. , Tinoco Gabriel , Husain Marium , Jin Ning , Tan Aik C. , Osman Afaf E.G. , Eljilany Islam , Riedlinger Gregory , Schneider Bryan P. , Benejova Katarina , Kery Martin , Papandreou Ioanna , Zhu Jiangjiang , Denko Nicholas , Spakowicz Daniel
Published: July 2024

Log2 fold changes of annotated Cutibacterium genes between hypoxic and normoxic tumors in nude and BALB/c mice.
A review and analysis of the nomenclature and taxonomy of the genus-rank synonyms of Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae) published between 1763 and 1956
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F.
Published: July 2024

The genus name Kalanchoe, which is in use for about 200 tetramerous-flowered infrageneric taxa, species, and infraspecific taxa of Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae that are indigenous to Madagascar, some Indian Ocean islands off the African east coast, most of sub-Saharan Africa, and the Near, Middle, and Far East, was validly published in 1763 by Michel Adanson (1727–1806) and is legitimate. Genus names that are included in the synonymy of Kalanchoe are assessed and assigned to the appropriate subgenera recognised in the genus, and their nomenclature is reviewed. In chronological sequence the genus names in question are: (1) Vereia (1798), (2) Physocalycium (1820), (3) Baumgartenia (1821), (4) Meristostylus (1861), and (5) Geaya (1908); and (6) Bryophyllum (1805) is the basionym of K. subg. Bryophyllum (1919), and (7) Kitchingia (1881) is the basionym of K. subg. Kitchingia (2018). When Bryophyllum is treated as a synonym of Kalanchoe—a view followed here—the nothogenus name (8) ×Bryokalanchoe (1956) is a synonym of Kalanchoe.
Kalanchoe steyniae (Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae; K. [subg. Kalanchoe sect. Raveta] ser. Rotundifoliae), a new, small-growing, shrubby species from eastern southern Africa
Authors: SMITH GIDEON F. , CROUCH NEIL R.
Published: July 2024

A new species of Kalanchoe (K. [subg. Kalanchoe sect. Raveta] ser. Rotundifoliae; Crassulaceae subfam. Kalanchooideae), K. steyniae, is described from the northeastern parts of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province and neighbouring Eswatini in eastern southern Africa. Kalanchoe steyniae differs from K. rotundifolia in especially reproductive characters, with, inter alia, its flowers being densely arranged (not diffusely so) in ± flat-topped, corymbose cymes; its corolla lobes showing weak (not distinct) diurnal movement; its sepals being longer; and its corolla tubes and corolla lobes being bright crimson red (not dull red to orange). Both species are illustrated.
Contributing to the knowledge of Pantanal Flora: a new endemic species of Dimerostemma (Asteraceae: Heliantheae) from Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: MENDES DANIEL DE MENEZES , WELKER CASSIANO A. DORNELES , FARINACCIO MARIA ANA , TELES ARISTÔNIO MAGALHÃES
Published: July 2024

Dimerostemma pantanalense is a new species, which is described, illustrated, and discussed in this paper. The species can only be found in the municipalities of Ladário and Corumbá, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Pantanal, Brazil. It is preliminarily categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) due to the advance of urbanization and the risk of fires in the Pantanal. It is morphologically similar to D. annuum but differs by its life-cycle perennial (vs. annual), leaves opposite and alternate (vs. only opposite), sessile (vs. subsessile with petiole up to 5 mm long), lanceolate (vs. linear), venation suprabasal acrodromous imperfect (vs. hyphodromous), adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces strongly villous to estrigose and glandular (vs. only nearly glabrous), receptacle convex to conical (vs. only convex), phyllaries 3-seriate (vs. 2-seriate), conduplicate palea carinate-alate (vs. not carinate-alate), cypselae oblanceolate to obovate (vs. subquadrangular) and pappus coroniform with two slightly developed awns (vs. coroniform with two well-developed awns). We present photographs and line drawings of the new species, along with discussions on its geographical distribution, habitat, phenology, and conservation status. Additionally, we provide an identification key for species of the genus in the Brazilian Pantanal.
Advanced Peak Phase of ENSO under Global Warming
Authors: Zheng Xiao-Tong , Hui Chang , Han Zi-Wen , Wu Yue
Published: July 2024

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is the leading mode of interannual ocean–atmosphere coupling in the tropical Pacific, greatly influencing the global climate system. Seasonal phase locking, which means that ENSO events usually peak in boreal winter, is a distinctive feature of ENSO. In model future projections, the ENSO sea surface temperature (SST) amplitude in winter shows no significant change with a large intermodel spread. However, whether and how ENSO phase locking will respond to global warming are not fully understood. In this study, using Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble (CESM-LE) projections, we found that the seasonality of ENSO events, especially its peak phase, has advanced under global warming. This phenomenon corresponds to the seasonal difference in the changes in the ENSO SST amplitude with an enhanced (weakened) amplitude from boreal summer to autumn (winter). Mixed layer ocean heat budget analysis revealed that the advanced ENSO seasonality is due to intensified positive meridional advective and thermocline feedback during the ENSO developing phase and intensified negative thermal damping during the ENSO peak phase. Furthermore, the seasonal variation in the mean El Niño–like SST warming in the tropical Pacific favors a weakened zonal advective feedback in boreal autumn–winter and earlier decay of ENSO. The advance of the ENSO peak phase is also found in most CMIP5/6 models that simulate the seasonal phase locking of ENSO well in the present climate. Thus, even though the amplitude response in the winter shows no model consensus, ENSO also significantly changes during different stages under global warming.
A phase 2 study of a longitudinal multidimensional rehabilitation program for allogeneic blood and marrow transplantation patients
Authors: Tam Samantha , Alibhai Shabbir M. H. , Hassanieh Dima , Kumar Rajat , Mattsson Jonas , Atenafu Eshetu G. , Avery Lisa , Bernstein Lori J. , Chang Eugene , Langelier David , Lopez Paty , Jones Jennifer M.
Published: July 2024

Allogeneic blood and marrow transplantation (alloBMT) is a curative treatment for blood cancers associated with various treatment-related adverse events and morbidities for which rehabilitation programs are currently limited. A phase 2 randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of CaRE-4-alloBMT, a longitudinal, multidimensional cancer rehabilitation program for patients undergoing alloBMT. The primary outcomes included the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and the methods. Feasibility was assessed through recruitment, retention, and adherence rates. Acceptability was assessed through qualitative interviews. Secondary clinical outcomes were collected through questionnaires and physiological assessments at 4 time points. A total of 80 participants were recruited and randomized. Recruitment (72%) and retention (70%) rates, along with qualitative findings, support the feasibility of the intervention. Adherence was suboptimal, most notably educational module completion (22.7%). Treatment effect sizes of 0.70 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.20-1.21; 30-second sit-to-stand test) and 0.46 (95% CI, –0.17 to 1.09; 36-Item Short Form Survey) were observed in favor of the intervention. The results appear promising; however, the findings are limited by missing data owing to attrition. Modifications will be required to refine the program and inform a phase 3 RCT. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04966156.
CD19-directed CART therapy for T-cell/histiocyte–rich large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Pophali Priyanka A. , Fein Joshua A. , Ahn Kwang W. , Allbee-Johnson Molly , Ahmed Nausheen , Awan Farrukh T. , Farhan Shatha , Grover Natalie S. , Hilal Talal , Iqbal Madiha , Maakaron Joseph , Modi Dipenkumar , Nasrollahi Elham , Schachter Levanto G. , Sauter Craig , Hamadani Mehdi , Herrera Alex , Shouval Roni , Shadman Mazyar
Published: July 2024

T-cell/histiocyte–rich large B-cell lymphoma (THRLBCL) is a rare histologic variant of LBCL. Limited data regarding CD19–directed chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CART) therapy in relapsed/refractory (R/R) THRLBCL suggest poor efficacy. We investigated CART outcomes for R/R THRLBCL through the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research registry. A total of 58 adult patients with R/R THRLBCL who received commercial CD19-CART therapy between 2018 and 2022 were identified. Most patients (67%) had early relapse of disease (45% primary refractory) with a median of 3 (range, 1-7) prior therapies and were treated with axicabtagene ciloleucel (69%). At median follow-up of 23 months after CART therapy, 2-year overall and progression-free survival were 42% (95% confidence interval [CI], 27-57) and 29% (95% CI, 17-43), respectively. In univariable analysis, poor performance status before CART therapy was associated with higher mortality (hazard ratio, 2.35; 95%CI, 1.02-5.5). The 2-year cumulative incidences of relapse/progression and nonrelapse mortality were 69% and 2%, respectively. Grade ≥3 cytokine release syndrome and immune effector cell–associated neurologic syndrome occurred in 7% and 15% of patients, respectively. In this largest analysis of CD19-CART therapy for R/R THRLBCL, ∼30% of patients were alive and progression free 2 years after CART therapy. Despite a high incidence of progression (69% at 2 years), these results suggest a subset of patients with R/R THRLBCL may have durable responses with CARTs.
Using high-density SNP data to unravel the origin of the Franches-Montagnes horse breed
Authors: Gmel Annik Imogen , Mikko Sofia , Ricard Anne , Velie Brandon D. , Gerber Vinzenz , Hamilton Natasha Anne , Neuditschko Markus
Published: July 2024

Background

The Franches-Montagnes (FM) is the last native horse breed of Switzerland, established at the end of the 19th century by cross-breeding local mares with Anglo-Norman stallions. We collected high-density SNP genotype data (Axiom™ 670 K Equine genotyping array) from 522 FM horses, including 44 old-type horses (OF), 514 European Warmblood horses (WB) from Sweden and Switzerland (including a stallion used for cross-breeding in 1990), 136 purebred Arabians (AR), 32 Shagya Arabians (SA), and 64 Thoroughbred (TB) horses, as introgressed WB stallions showed TB origin in their pedigrees. The aim of the study was to ascertain fine-scale population structures of the FM breed, including estimation of individual admixture levels and genomic inbreeding (FROH) by means of Runs of Homozygosity.

Results

To assess fine-scale population structures within the FM breed, we applied a three-step approach, which combined admixture, genetic contribution, and FROH of individuals into a high-resolution network visualization. Based on this approach, we were able to demonstrate that population substructures, as detected by model-based clustering, can be either associated with a different genetic origin or with the progeny of most influential sires. Within the FM breed, admixed horses explained most of the genetic variance of the current breeding population, while OF horses only accounted for a small proportion of the variance. Furthermore, we illustrated that FM horses showed high TB admixture levels and we identified inconsistencies in the origin of FM horses descending from the Arabian stallion Doktryner. With the exception of WB, FM horses were less inbred compared to the other breeds. However, the relatively few but long ROH segments suggested diversity loss in both FM subpopulations. Genes located in FM- and OF-specific ROH islands had known functions involved in conformation and behaviour, two traits that are highly valued by breeders.

Conclusions

The FM remains the last native Swiss breed, clearly distinguishable from other historically introgressed breeds, but it suffered bottlenecks due to intensive selection of stallions, restrictive mating choices based on arbitrary definitions of pure breeding, and selection of rare coat colours. To preserve the genetic diversity of FM horses, future conservation managements strategies should involve a well-balanced selection of stallions (e.g., by integrating OF stallions in the FM breeding population) and avoid selection for rare coat colours.
Implementation of remote general movement assessment using the in-motion instructions in a high-risk norwegian cohort
Authors: Adde Lars , Åberg Kristin Bjørnstad , Fjørtoft Toril , Grunewaldt Kristine Hermansen , Lade Randi , Osland Siril , Piegsa Frank , Sandstrøm Per Gunnar , Støen Ragnhild , Størvold Gunfrid V. , Eriksen Beate Horsberg
Published: July 2024

Background

General Movement Assessment (GMA) is recommended for early detection of risk for cerebral palsy but requires trained clinical experts. We aimed to implement home- and hospital-based filming for remote GMA in a Norwegian high-risk infant cohort, as well as evaluating parents’ experiences in filming their infant at home.

Methods

This knowledge translational study used a prospective cohort design including participants referred to neurodevelopmental follow-up across three sites in the Central Norway Regional Health Authority. Two home films of the fidgety type of general movements were collected between 12+1–14+6 and 15+1–17+6 weeks after term by parents. An additional film was collected at the hospital between 12+1 and 17+6 weeks after term. The instructional guide for all filming was the In-Motion App standards. Videos were transferred to a remote GMA team and classified as either “GMA scorable” or “GMA not scorable” based on Prechtl’s GMA standards. Parents responded to an online survey using a 5-point Likert scale to collect information about their perspectives, experiences, and possible worries by filming their infant at home.

Results

One-hundred-and-two infants from 95 families participated. Ninety-two (96.8%) families transferred 177 home-based videos. Eighty-four (92%) of these had 95 videos taken in their local hospital. All 177 home-videos were “GMA scorable” and three (3,1%) out of 95 hospital-based videos were classified as “GMA not scorable”. Eight families did not respond to the survey and two families did not receive the survey due to a technical error. Seventy-eight (91.7%) respondents agreed or strongly agreed that it was easy to perform home filming and five (5.9%) agreed that they were more worried about their child`s development after filming at home. Almost 80% of respondents agreed that a video for GMA can be taken at home instead of in hospital.

Conclusions

This study strengthens the clinical implementation of home filming by parents and remote GMA for early detection of CP in high-risk follow-up programs. The implementation of remote GMA has the potential to facilitate early intervention to improve function in children with CP in line with international recommendations.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04287166 Date of registration: 27/02/2020.
Non-surgical vs. surgical treatment of distal radius fractures: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhu Chaohua , Wang Xue , Liu Mengchao , Liu Xiaohui , Chen Jia , Liu Guobin , Ji Gang
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes between nonsurgical and surgical treatment of distal radius fracture.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search by using multiple databases, including Medline, PubMed, and Cochrane. All databases were searched from the earliest records through February 2023. The study compared nonsurgical versus surgical treatment of distal radius fractures and included only randomized controlled trials (RCTS).

Results

There were seventeen randomized controlled trials retrieved. A total of 1730 patients were included: 862 in the nonsurgical group and 868 in the surgical group. The results showed a significant reduction in DASH score with surgical treatment (WMD 3.98, 95% CI (2.00, 5.95), P < 0.001). And in grip strength (%), the results showed a significant improvement in surgical treatment compared with non-surgical treatment (WMD − 6.60, 95% CI (-11.61, -1.60), P = 0.01). There was significant difference in radial inclination, radial length, volar title, range of wrist pronation, range of wrist supination. However, no difference in radial deviation, ulnar deviation, ulnar variance, range of wrist extension and range of wrist flexion was observed.

Conclusions

The results of this meta-analysis suggest that some patients with surgical treatment of distal radius fractures not only improved the grip strength (%), decreased the DASH score, but also improved the range of wrist pronation and the range of wrist supination compared with nonsurgical treatment. Based on the present meta-analysis, we suggest that some patients with surgical treatment might be more effective in patients with distal radius fracture.
AI-initiated second opinions: a framework for advanced caries treatment planning
Authors: Dascalu Tudor , Ramezanzade Shaqayeq , Bakhshandeh Azam , Bjørndal Lars , Ibragimov Bulat
Published: July 2024

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into medical and dental applications can be challenging due to clinicians’ distrust of computer predictions and the potential risks associated with erroneous outputs. We introduce the idea of using AI to trigger second opinions in cases where there is a disagreement between the clinician and the algorithm. By keeping the AI prediction hidden throughout the diagnostic process, we minimize the risks associated with distrust and erroneous predictions, relying solely on human predictions. The experiment involved 3 experienced dentists, 25 dental students, and 290 patients treated for advanced caries across 6 centers. We developed an AI model to predict pulp status following advanced caries treatment. Clinicians were asked to perform the same prediction without the assistance of the AI model. The second opinion framework was tested in a 1000-trial simulation. The average F1-score of the clinicians increased significantly from 0.586 to 0.645.
Online vs. face-to-face interactive communication education using video materials among healthcare college students: a pilot non-randomized controlled study
Authors: Ichikura Kanako , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Moriya Rika , Chiba Hiroki , Inoue Akiomi , Arai Yumi , Shimazu Akihito , Fukase Yuko , Tagaya Hirokuni , Tsutsumi Akizumi
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aimed to examine whether online interactive communication education using video materials was as effective as face-to-face education among healthcare college students.

Methods

The participants were healthcare college students who were enrolled in study programs to obtain national medical licenses. They participated in lectures and exercises on healthcare communication, both online (n = 139) and face-to-face (n = 132). Listening skills, understanding, and confidence in healthcare communication were assessed using a self-assessed tool.

Results

From the two-way ANOVA result, the interaction effects between group (online, face-to-face) and time (Time 1, Time 2, Time 3) were not statistically significant. The main effect of time increased significantly from Time1 to Time 3 on understanding of communication with patients (Hedges’g = 0.51, 95%CI 0.27–0.75), confidence in communication with patients (g = 0.40, 95%CI 0.16–0.64), and confidence in clinical practice (g = 0.49, 95%CI 0.25, 0.73), while the score of listening skills had no significant change (Hedges’g = 0.09, 95%CI − 0.03 to 0.45).

Conclusions

The results show that online communication education with video materials and active exercises is as effective in improving students’ confidence as face-to-face. It will be necessary to modify the content of this educational program to improve skills as well as confidence in communication.

Trial registration

Not Applicable.
AtSNU13 modulates pre-mRNA splicing of RBOHD and ALD1 to regulate plant immunity
Authors: Jiang Yanke , Yue Yingzhe , Lu Chongchong , Latif Muhammad Zunair , Liu Haifeng , Wang Zhaoxu , Yin Ziyi , Li Yang , Ding Xinhua
Published: July 2024

Pre-mRNA splicing is a significant step for post-transcriptional modifications and functions in a wide range of physiological processes in plants. Human NHP2L binds to U4 snRNA during spliceosome assembly; it is involved in RNA splicing and mediates the development of human tumors. However, no ortholog has yet been identified in plants. Therefore, we report At4g12600 encoding the ortholog NHP2L protein, and AtSNU13 associates with the component of the spliceosome complex; the atsnu13 mutant showed compromised resistance in disease resistance, indicating that AtSNU13 is a positive regulator of plant immunity. Compared to wild-type plants, the atsnu13 mutation resulted in altered splicing patterns for defense-related genes and decreased expression of defense-related genes, such as RBOHD and ALD1. Further investigation shows that AtSNU13 promotes the interaction between U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP-specific 27 K and the motif in target mRNAs to regulate the RNA splicing. Our study highlights the role of AtSNU13 in regulating plant immunity by affecting the pre-mRNA splicing of defense-related genes.