bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Research Hotspots and Frontiers of Bumblebees During 1999–2024: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Yuan Yige , Smagghe Guy , Chen Xiangsheng , Long Jiankun , Chang Zhimin
Published: January 2025

Bumblebees, as social species and efficient pollinators, have attracted the attention of researchers and governments all over the world. However, a comprehensive overview of the bumblebee research field is lacking. This study delves into a bibliometric analysis of the recent 25 years of research with bumblebees from 1999 to 2024. Drawing data from 4119 publications in the Web of Science (WoS) database, it showed a steady increase in number of publications in the recent two decades. Countries in North America, Europe and China formed the three main forces. The hotspots and frontiers were related to decline and health of bumblebees, including combined effects related to climate change, agrochemicals, habitat loss and fragmentation, parasites and disease, and monotonous diets and competition. Additionally, based on co‐cited references cluster analysis, it was concluded that climate change and pesticides will still be the focus research fields in the future. Overall, this paper serves as an exhaustive resource for individuals and governments working intrigued by bumblebee.
Catalytic Infrared Promoted the Decontamination of Intense Pulsed Light on Green Sichuan Pepper (Zanthoxylum schinifolium)
Authors: Xia Guohua , Li Haixia , Wang Minjun , Fu Siying , Wang Pushuo , Yang Huan , Zhou Cunshan , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2025

Intense pulsed light (IPL) is an efficient sterilization technology for instantaneous intense UV predominantly, while the decontamination was weakened on green Sichuan pepper (GSP) for “shadow effect.” Catalytic infrared (CIR) has excellent decontamination on uneven surfaces for long‐wave diffraction while was prone to cause flavor decline for “thermal effect.” In this study, a combined method of CIR and IPL was attempted to settle the dispute of decontamination effect and flavor decline on GSP. The inactivation kinetics on the change of bacterial enumeration over sterilization time were determined, and the results showed the sterilization effect of IPL on GSP could be improved significantly after CIR pretreatment, which was promoted from 0.65 ± 0.07 to 2.62 ± 0.07 Lg (p < 0.05), and could realize the active bacteria on commercial GSP was below 100 CFU g−1. Moreover, the flavor of GSP was measured on color and aroma changes, volatile oil content, and total alkaloid content, and the antioxidant function was measured on total reducing power, ABTS+•, and •OH− clearance rates. The results showed CIR could give rise to color change and volatile oil decrease of GSP, which indicated that the treatment time of CIR should be restricted in 5 min based on relevant Chinese national standard. CIR and IPL showed a difference to several oxygen free radicals, and the impact could be weakened by a combined method. In conclusion, under the same sterilization rate, CIR pretreatment could promote the decontamination of IPL on GSP and could weaken the influence of CIR or IPL on the quality of GSP.
Tubulin‐Binding Region Modulates Cholesterol‐Triggered Aggregation of Tau Proteins
Authors: Ali Abid , Matveyenka Mikhail , Pickett Davis N. , Rodriguez Axell , Kurouski Dmitry
Published: January 2025

A hallmark of Alzheimer disease (AD) and tauopathies, severe neurodegenerative diseases, is the progressive aggregation of Tau, also known as microtubule‐associated Tau protein. Full‐length Tau1‐441, also known as 2N4R, contains two N‐terminal inserts that bind to tubulin. This facilitates the self‐assembly of tubulin simultaneously enhancing stability of cell microtubules. Other Tau isoforms have one (1N4R) or zero (0N4R) N‐terminal inserts, which makes 2N4R Tau more and 0N4R less effective in promoting microtubule self‐assembly. A growing body of evidence indicates that lipids can alter the aggregation rate of Tau isoforms. However, the role of N‐terminal inserts in Tau‐lipid interactions remains unclear. In this study, we utilized a set of biophysical methods to determine the extent to which N‐terminal inserts alter interactions of Tau isoforms with cholesterol, one of the most important lipids in plasma membranes. Our results showed that 2 N insert prevents amyloid‐driven aggregation of Tau at the physiological concentration of cholesterol, while the absence of this N‐terminal repeat (1N4R and 0N4R Tau) resulted in the self‐assembly of Tau into toxic amyloid fibrils. We also found that the presence of cholesterol in the lipid bilayers caused a significant increase in the cytotoxicity of 1N4R and 0N4R Tau to neurons. This effect was not observed for 2N4R Tau fibrils formed in the presence of lipid membranes with low, physiological, and elevated concentrations of cholesterol. Using molecular assays, we found that Tau aggregates primarily exert cytotoxicity by damaging cell endosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria.

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How to Deal with Exchange Rate Risk in Infrastructure and Other Long‐Lived Projects
Authors: de Castro Luciano , Frischtak Claudio , Rodrigues Arthur
Published: January 2025

Most developing economies rely on foreign capital to finance their infrastructure needs. These projects are usually structured as long‐term (25–35 years) franchises that pay in local currency. If investors evaluate their returns in terms of foreign currency, exchange rate volatility introduces risk that may reduce the level of investment below what would be socially optimal. In this article, we propose a mechanism with very general features that hedges exchange rate fluctuation by adjusting the concession period. Such mechanism does not imply additional costs to the government and could be offered as a zero‐cost option to lenders and investors exposed to currency fluctuations. We illustrate the general mechanism with three alternative specifications and use data from a 25‐year highway franchise to simulate how they would play out in eight different emerging economies that exhibit diverse exchange rate trajectories. Results show relatively small length adjustments, and suggest the mechanism offers a powerful policy tool to cost‐effectively attract vital foreign infrastructure investment for developing countries.
Do Inconsistent Public Opinions Explain Inconsistent Policies?
Authors: Tarabar Danko
Published: January 2025

This paper examines whether inconsistent public sentiments on capitalism may lead governments to adopt incoherent economic liberalization packages characterized by uneven attention to different policy areas. We propose that inconsistent sentiments obstruct political consensus‐building on reform trajectory within governing coalitions. These questions are explored empirically using a sample of up to 25 postsocialist countries during the initial phase of their market transition (1991–2001). We present evidence that ideological inconsistency of the median voter—defined as the standard deviation of median capitalism‐related sentiments among likely voters—is associated with more fractionalized governing coalitions along party lines and that, in turn, higher government fractionalization increases the dispersion of promarket policies. Countries with greater economic policy dispersion have historically experienced lower income growth rates, highlighting the importance of maintaining balanced reform paths.
Inter‐Institutional Dynamics and Impact of Fluconazole‐Resistant Candida parapsilosis
Authors: Korem Maya , Reich Shelly , Rahav Galia , Yahav Dafna , Weinberger Miriam , Novikov Anna , Mizrahi Naama , Ben‐Ami Ronen
Published: January 2025

Background

Infections with fluconazole‐resistant Candida parapsilosis have been increasing in Israeli hospitals with unclear implications for patient outcomes.

Objectives

To determine the frequency, mechanisms, molecular epidemiology, and outcomes of azole‐resistant C. parapsilosis bloodstream infections in four hospitals in Israel.

Patients/Methods

C. parapsilosis bloodstream isolates were collected at four hospitals in central Israel during varying periods from 2005 to 2022. Antifungal susceptibility testing was done using CLSI broth microdilution. Risk factors for fluconazole resistance were investigated using logistic regression. ERG11 gene sequencing was performed on all isolates. Genetic relatedness was determined using multilocus microsatellite genotyping. Clinical cure, microbiological eradication, and mortality rates were compared between fluconazole‐susceptible and resistant isolates.

Results

A total of 192 patient‐specific C. parapsilosis isolates were analysed. Resistance to fluconazole and voriconazole was detected in 80 (41%) and 14 (7.2%) isolates, respectively. The ERG11 Y132F substitution was found in 91% of fluconazole‐resistant and 1% of fluconazole‐susceptible isolates. Increasing age, intensive care hospitalisation, haemodialysis, and recent exposure to antibiotics were risk factors for fluconazole‐resistant C. parapsilosis. Distinct but related genotypes predominated at each centre, indicating extensive dissemination within hospitals and limited transmission among them. Fluconazole resistance was associated with increased likelihood of microbiological failure but no significant difference in clinical cure and mortality.

Conclusions

We found high rates of fluconazole resistance in C. parapsilosis, attributable to nosocomial spread of hospital‐specific clones bearing the Y132F substitution. Fluconazole resistance was associated with a higher risk of microbiological but not clinical failure. Strategies to limit nosocomial transmission of C. parapsilosis are needed.
Ex Vivo Fungal Nail Penetration Study: Effects of Causative Organisms, Nail Polish and Age
Authors: Munprom Kanyalak , Bunyaratavej Sumanas , Pattanaprichakul Penvadee , Jirawattanadon Pattriya , Matthapan Lalita , Prasong Waranyoo , Panyawong Chatisa , Plengpanich Akkarapong , Leeyaphan Charussri
Published: January 2025

Background

Few ex vivo studies have investigated the virulence factors of fungi causing onychomycosis. The effect of nail polish in predisposing or protecting against onychomycosis remains debatable.

Objectives

This ex vivo study aimed to identify the nail invasion ability of dermatophytes, non‐dermatophytes and yeast, with and without nail polishing, in the nails of young and elderly individuals.

Methods

Six fungal species were tested: dermatophytes (Trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, Microsporum canis), non‐dermatophytes (Neoscytalidium dimidiatum, Fusarium spp.) and Candida albicans. Nail plates from eight volunteers (four aged ≥ 70 years; four aged < 70 years) were divided into polished and non‐polished groups, incubated with each fungus and evaluated at 2, 4 and 8 weeks. Positive results were determined the presence of fungal hyphae or pseudohyphae penetrating the nail plate, with the enlargement of invasive fungal elements confirmed by histology.

Results

At 2 weeks, N. dimidiatum exhibited the highest nail invasion rate (15/16, 93.75%), whereas C. albicans showed the lowest (1/16, 6.25%). Fungal penetration into nail plates increased with longer incubation durations. At 8 weeks, C. albicans did not invade any polished nail plates; however, the difference in invasion rates between polished and unpolished nail plates was not statistically significant. Additionally, age did not significantly affect the invasion of most fungi in this ex vivo study.

Conclusions

This ex vivo study supported the concept that fungal virulence is the main determining factor for nail invasion. N. dimidiatum caused the most and fastest nail plate penetration. Nail polishing may slow the penetration of low‐virulence organisms.
Risk Factors and Prognostic Effects of Aspergillosis as a Complication of Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Takazono Takahiro , Ide Shotaro , Adomi Motohiko , Ogata Yoshimasa , Saito Yoshiyuki , Yoshida Masataka , Takeda Kazuaki , Iwanaga Naoki , Hosogaya Naoki , Sakamoto Noriho , Sato Izumi , Furumoto Akitsugu , Izumikawa Koichi , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: January 2025

Objective

The global prevalence of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM‐PD) has been steadily increasing. A few small retrospective studies have reported a poor prognosis associated with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) as a complication of NTM‐PD. Furthermore, the prognostic impact of CPA may have been inadequately assessed due to differences in background factors. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for CPA in NTM‐PD and compare the risk of in‐hospital mortality between patients with and without aspergillosis.

Methods

Data were obtained from a large‐scale claims database. Patients with NTM‐PD who met the inclusion criteria and those who developed CPA after the NTM diagnosis were identified. The incidence of CPA was evaluated, and risk factors were identified using multiple logistic analyses. Mortality rates were evaluated and compared between patients with and without aspergillosis after adjusting for background CPA risk factors.

Results

The incidence of CPA was 2.29% (265/11,587). The identified risk factors included male sex, chronic respiratory failure, asthma, interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary tuberculosis sequelae and systemic corticosteroid use. A total of 219 patients with CPA were matched with control cases using propensity scores based on age and identified risk factors for CPA. The adjusted hazard ratio for in‐hospital mortality was 2.6 (95% CI: 1.8–3.9).

Conclusions

CPA as a complication of NTM‐PD is associated with significantly higher mortality rates. Clinicians should consider the necessity of promptly diagnosing CPA in patients with NTM‐PD and the associated risk factors.
Lupus Nephritis and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Scoping Review
Authors: Teoh Selene T. Y. , Yap Desmond Y. H. , Yung Susan , Chan Tak Mao
Published: January 2025

Prevention of end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) is a major objective in the management of patients with lupus nephritis (LN). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) of variable severity is common in these patients, but recent literature has mostly focused on novel immunosuppressive treatments for acute LN, while the data on CKD is relatively limited. This scoping review aims to summarise available data on the prevalence and risk factors for CKD in patients with LN. PubMed and Web of Science databases were systematically searched on the 1st November 2024 for ‘real world’ SLE and LN cohorts with longitudinal follow‐up which reported the outcome of CKD or CKD progression and its associated risk factors. Fifteen studies were included. The prevalence of CKD ranged from below 10% to almost 50% across diverse LN and SLE cohorts. Major risk factors for CKD or CKD progression included renal impairment at presentation, renal function at 1 year post‐treatment, delayed diagnosis, established chronic pathological lesions on kidney biopsy, unsatisfactory treatment response, nephritic flares, hypertension, and persistent proteinuria during follow‐up. Many of the identified risk factors are amenable to therapeutic intervention. CKD not only contributes to morbidity and mortality and inferior quality of life, but also influences the choice of therapy and optimal dosing of medications. Attention to immunomodulatory medications for disease control, and non‐immune strategies for renoprotection and prevention of CKD complications, are both important in the management of patients with LN to reduce their life‐time risk of ESKD.
Ability of Orthodontists to Detect, Interpret and Propose Management Strategies for Incidental Findings on Pre‐Treatment Panoramic Radiographs
Authors: Edmonds Madeleine , Perschbacher Susanne , Cioffi Iacopo , Magalhaes Marco
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Radiographs are routinely acquired for orthodontic evaluation, and incidental findings (IFs) may be detected early as part of this routine care. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of IFs on panoramic radiographs taken for orthodontic assessment and evaluate the ability of orthodontists to detect, interpret and recommend management for IFs.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of 1756 patients aged 7–21 with a panoramic image taken for orthodontic evaluation was performed. IFs were categorised by anatomic region and assigned a significance level based on a custom‐made risk assessment tool. Twelve selected images were evaluated by 30 orthodontists via a standardised online survey. Participants were tasked with reviewing each image, providing a radiological interpretation, and indicating whether a referral would be needed prior to commencing orthodontic treatment. The responses were scored against those of an expert oral and maxillofacial radiologist (OMFR). Inter‐observer agreement was evaluated by computing the Cohen's K.

Results

The prevalence of IFs was 30.8%. The most common findings were impacted teeth (17.7%), hypodontia (14.9%) and dense bone islands (14.7%). After applying the risk assessment tool, 35% of the findings were considered highly significant. The overall agreement between the orthodontists and OMFR was k = 0.32 (95% CI = 0.30–0.34). The agreement for location was 0.52 (95% CI = 0.47–0.58), whereas it was k = 0.45 (95% CI = 0.40–0.50) for diagnosis and k = 0.19 (95% CI = 0.13–0.24) for referral need.

Conclusions

Orthodontists may benefit from additional education and training focused on interpretation and management of IFs on panoramic radiographs.
Cauda Equina Syndrome Without Perineal Sensory Changes or Lower Extremity Neurological Deficits Following Postoperative Spinal Epidural Hematoma: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Liu Guanyi , Li Qing , Ruan Hongfeng , Zhu Bingke , Ma Weihu , Hu Yong
Published: January 2025

Background

Postoperative spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is a rare but serious complication following lumbar surgery, with cauda equina syndrome (CES) being one of its most devastating outcomes. While CES typically presents with a combination of bladder and/or bowel dysfunction, diminished sensation in the saddle area, and motor or sensory changes in the lower limbs, atypical cases with isolated urinary symptoms are less recognized and pose significant diagnostic challenges.

Case Presentation

We report the case of a 46‐year‐old male who developed CES following lumbar microdiscectomy, presenting solely with urinary retention, without the classic signs of lower limb weakness or perineal sensory loss. Initial symptoms were attributed to postoperative urinary issues, delaying the diagnosis of CES. On postoperative day 7, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed SEH, and emergency hematoma evacuation was performed. Despite the delayed intervention, the patient made a full neurological recovery, with bladder and bowel functions restored by 3 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

This case highlights the importance of recognizing CES in patients with isolated urinary dysfunction after lumbar surgery, even when typical neurological symptoms such as lower limb weakness or perineal sensory loss are absent. Early detection and prompt surgical intervention are critical, as delayed diagnosis may result in permanent neurological deficits. Moreover, this case underscores the need for vigilant postoperative monitoring, especially of urinary function, as isolated urinary symptoms may signal early CES. Maintaining a high index of suspicion for CES, even in atypical presentations, can facilitate timely diagnosis and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, this case highlights the need for continued research into the prevention of SEH and the development of more robust diagnostic criteria for CES in postoperative patients. Future studies should focus on developing more comprehensive guidelines for monitoring postoperative patients, especially regarding urinary function, to aid in the early detection of CES.
Research Progress on the Posterior Midline Lumbar Spinous Process‐Splitting Approach
Authors: Ma Yizhong , Mao Lu , Liu Guanyi , Hu Lihua , Chen Kaixuan
Published: January 2025

The traditional posterior median approach laminectomy is widely used for lumbar decompression. However, the bilateral dissection of paraspinal muscles during this procedure often leads to postoperative muscle atrophy, chronic low back pain, and other complications. The posterior midline spinous process‐splitting approach (SPSA) offers a significant advantage over the traditional approach by minimizing damage to the paraspinal muscles. SPSA reduces the incidence of muscle atrophy and chronic low back pain while maintaining the integrity of the posterior spinal structures. The technique involves longitudinal splitting of the spinous process, which allows for adequate access to the lamina for decompression without detaching the paraspinal muscles. As a result, it provides a clearer surgical field and facilitates muscle preservation, which reduces the risk of postoperative complications. Additionally, SPSA requires only standard surgical instruments, making it accessible in most surgical settings. This paper reviews the anatomical considerations, surgical techniques, and clinical applications of the SPSA, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing muscle atrophy and improving recovery outcomes. The paper also discusses its potential in treating conditions such as lumbar spinal stenosis, disc herniation, and spondylolisthesis. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for future research to establish the long‐term benefits of SPSA and refine surgical techniques. The results suggest that SPSA is a promising alternative to traditional approaches, with better outcomes in terms of muscle preservation and overall recovery.
Convergent Isobilateral Leaves Increase the Risk for Mangroves Facing Human‐Induced Rapid Environmental Changes
Authors: Weng Yulin , Qin Dandan , Li Xiao , Zhou Jiawen , Zhang Bowen , Li Qingshun Quinn
Published: January 2025

Understanding plant adaptations in extreme environments is crucial, as these adaptations often confer advantages for survival. However, a significant gap exists regarding the genetic mechanisms underlying these adaptations and their responses to human‐induced rapid environmental change (HIREC). This study addresses the question of whether genetic convergence occurs among plants with similar adaptive features, specifically focusing on isobilateral leaves in mangrove species. Here, we analyse the genetic convergence of isobilateral leaves in mangroves that have independently adapted to coastal intertidal zones. Our findings reveal that genetic convergence is evident in gene families involved in leaf abaxial and adaxial development, with strong selection pressures identified in photosynthesis and leaf polarity pathways. Despite these adaptations, mangrove species with isobilateral leaves occupy narrower ecological niches and face diminishing suitable habitat areas projected under various HIREC scenarios. These results indicate that while convergent traits enhance local adaptation, they may also increase vulnerability to ongoing environmental changes. This research provides valuable insight into the interplay between genetic adaptation and environmental resilience, underscoring the necessity for targeted biodiversity conservation strategies that safeguard specific adaptive traits amid rapid environmental shifts.
Vesicoureteral Reflux in Transplanted Kidney Among Children With Congenital Anomalies of Kidney and Urinary Tract: Case–Control Study Assessing Impact on Renal Function and Graft Survival
Authors: Ascar Priscila Cardoso Braz , Penedo Camila Correa , Genzani Camila Penteado , Fonseca Mariana Janiques Barcia Magalhães , Scaranti Vanessa , Feltran Luciana Santis , de Camargo Maria Fernanda Carvalho , de Souza Leão Jovelino Quintino , Nogueira Paulo Cesar Koch
Published: January 2025

Background

Congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT) are a common cause of kidney failure in childhood. Renal transplantation is the modality of treatment used for kidney failure that promotes improved quality of life for pediatric patients. It is believed that patients with CAKUT are more predisposed to developing graft reflux in the post‐transplant period, but its influence on graft survival is poorly understood. A comparative analysis between patients with and without VUR in the graft was made to determine the impact of reflux on graft function and survival in pediatric CAKUT patients.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study of patients undergoing first renal transplantation between April 2008 and October 2021 was done. The study included CAKUT individuals who underwent voiding cystourethrogram after transplantation. Patients were stratified into a group without reflux in the transplanted kidney (controls) and a group with reflux (cases). Six‐year graft and patient survivals were calculated and compared using Kaplan–Meier curves and the log‐rank test.

Results

A total of 257 CAKUT patients were studied. Of this group, 63 (24%) underwent voiding cystourethrogram after transplantation, and 48 (76%) had reflux in the transplanted kidney. Estimated six‐year survival of the graft was 72% in the control group versus 96% in the case group (log‐rank 0.889). The median follow‐up time after transplantation in years was 7.6 in controls and 6.6 in cases (p = 0.383).

Conclusions

Pediatric patients with CAKUT who presented reflux in transplanted kidneys had similar graft and patient survivals compared to patients without reflux.
No Vaccine, No Organ? Ethics of Vaccine Mandates for Pediatric Transplant
Authors: Navin Mark Christopher , Wightman Aaron G. , Ross Lainie Friedman
Published: January 2025

Many transplant programs worldwide are likely to impose vaccine mandates for pediatric solid organ transplant candidates; some already do. Three potential benefits that advocates invoke to justify mandates are improved patient outcomes, efficient organ allocation, and contributions to community protection. We show that none of these benefits can justify mandates. The medical benefits of mandates are unlikely to outweigh the risks of denying life‐saving care, mandates threaten trust and equity in organ allocation, and the impact on community protection is likely negligible, while the burden on unvaccinated children would be disproportionate. We also reject the claim that clinician burdens in dealing with vaccine refusers are good reasons for mandates, and point out, to the contrary, that the potential political backlash to mandates is a good reason for restraint. Rather, we argue that vaccine mandates for pediatric transplant candidates should be a last resort; they should only be considered after all evidence‐based noncoercive measures have been exhausted, and after mandates for transplant professionals and staff are in place. Since there is little evidence that all such measures have been attempted, it is premature to consider vaccine mandates.
A Patient With NEMO Deficiency, Disseminated M. szulgai, and Post‐HSCT Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Rosenthal Ayelet , Goyal Alka , Chen Sharon F. , Lewis David B. , Shah Ami
Published: January 2025

Background

Disseminated mycobacterium poses a significant risk for patients with NEMO deficiency. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) corrects the NEMO defect in hematopoietic cells thus treating the immunodeficiency.

Methods

We present a patient with NEMO deficiency who successfully underwent HSCT despite a disseminated Mycobacterium szulgai infection.

Results

Despite successful engraftment and resolution of the mycobacterium infection, he developed inflammatory disease leading to his death.

Conclusion

HSCT does not cure all aspects of the NEMO protein defect and posttransplant inflammatory diseases involving nonhematopoietic cell types may manifest clinically.
Fate of Semilunar Valves From Discarded Hearts at the Time of Pediatric Heart Retransplantation
Authors: Arcadi Landon , Faateh Muhammad , Raees Muhammad Aanish , Morales David L. S. , Mantell Benjamin S. , Ashfaq Awais
Published: January 2025

Background

Partial heart transplantation (PHT) is a novel procedure for children in need of a growing valve replacement option. One challenge is identifying suitable donor valves. Semilunar heart valves from patients receiving a retransplant may be a source, however their functionality and growth potential especially at the time of retransplant are unknown. We aimed to assess growth and function of these valves.

Methods

Data from patients undergoing a retransplant at a single institution were analyzed. Echocardiograms were compared following the primary transplant and immediately before retransplant to assess growth and valve function.

Results

Thirteen patients were included. Recipient and donor ages at the primary transplant were median (range): 2 years (0–13) and 3 years (0–40), respectively. The median time to retransplant was 11 years (2–21). There was an overall growth across all semilunar valve measurements; aortic valve annulus diameter (mean increase ± standard deviation): 0.2 ± 0.12 cm, aortic root: 0.29 ± 0.16 cm, and pulmonary valve annulus: 0.5 ± 0.34 cm; all p < 0.05. The growth rate of valves was higher in younger patients and showed a better correlation with graft age relative to recipient age: aortic valve annulus growth R2: 0.61 (graft age) versus 0.54 (recipient age); aortic root R2: 0.73 versus 0.57; pulmonary valve annulus R2: 0.94 versus 0.86. No patients had clinically significant regurgitation or stenosis on the latest echocardiogram. All except one patient's measurement had valve Z‐scores within ±2 at retransplant.

Conclusion

Explanted hearts from patients undergoing retransplantation could be considered an additional source of semilunar valves for PHT. Valves from these hearts were found to function normally and grew in proportion with the recipient's body. Valves from younger donors/recipients demonstrated a more rapid growth rate.
Investigating the impact of mitochondrial DNA: Insights into blood transfusion reactions and mitigation strategies
Authors: Bagheri Saeede , Hajiabadi Fatemeh , Vahabzadeh Reihaneh , Ahmadi Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives

Although transfusion reactions occur in less than 2% of recipients, they are currently one of the most serious concerns in blood transfusion. Damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) are released from injured, stressed or dead cells, leading to inflammation and immune system activation. One of the recognized DAMPs is mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). It is found in various blood products, including fresh frozen plasma (FFP), red blood cell units (RBCUs) and platelet concentrates (PCs), and can induce adverse reactions in recipients by stimulating the innate immune system and inflammatory cellular pathways. The aim of this study was to investigate the factors influencing the release of mtDNA in various blood products and its subsequent impact on transfusion reactions.

Materials and Methods

In this study, mtDNA, mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA DAMPs, extracellular mtDNA, blood products, blood components and transfusion reactions between 2009 and 2023 were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus databases.

Results

This study has demonstrated the presence of mtDNA in the extracellular milieu of various blood products, including PCs, FFP and RBCUs. Understanding the determinants of mtDNA release and its implications for transfusion safety is critical. Strategies aimed at reducing mtDNA release, such as optimizing preparation techniques and donor selection criteria, hold promise for reducing transfusion‐related complications.

Conclusion

By addressing these factors, healthcare providers can enhance the safety and efficacy of blood transfusion practices, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Laurent-Benoît Dewez (1731–1812), Architect in the Age of Enlightenment
Authors: Van de Vijver Dirk
Published: January 2025

Laurent-Benoît Dewez (1732-1812), court architect to Charles of Lorraine, was the most outstanding architect of his time in the Southern Low Countries. After studying in Italy and serving in the eminent office of Robert Adam in London, Dewez developed a personal, classical style that came to embody the “Eglise Belgique” under the Austrian Habsburgs.

He designed numerous castles, abbeys, and churches across Belgium, but time has not been kind to his legacy: of his 80 architectural projects, many have vanished. However, the Château de Seneffe, the abbey of Vlierbeek in Leuven, and the churches in Andenne, Floreffe, and Harelbeke still stand as testaments to his remarkable talent.

This richly illustrated monograph presents, for the first time, a comprehensive collection and analysis of the complete works of Laurent-Benoît Dewez.
Evolution of rod bipolar cells and rod vision
Authors: Frederiksen Rikard , Peng Yi‐Rong , Sampath Alapakkam P. , Fain Gordon L.
Published: January 2025

Bipolar cells are vertebrate retinal interneurons conveying signals from rod and cone photoreceptors to amacrine and ganglion cells. Bipolar cells are found in all vertebrates and have many structural and molecular affinities with photoreceptors; they probably appeared very early during vertebrate evolution in conjunction with rod and cone progenitors. There are two types of bipolar cells, responding to central illumination with depolarization (ON) or hyperpolarization (OFF). In most vertebrate species, rod signals are conveyed to specialized rod bipolar cells, which sum signals from many rods and facilitate detection at the visual threshold. Lamprey, which diverged from all other vertebrates in the late Cambrian, have both rod ON and rod OFF bipolar cells, but mammals have only rod ON cells. Rod signals in mammals are conveyed to output neurons indirectly via AII (or A2) amacrine cells, which synapse onto cone ON and cone OFF bipolar‐cells and then to ganglion cells. These findings raise the question of when during retinal evolution rod OFF bipolar cells were lost. Because physiological recordings have been made from rod OFF bipolar cells in both cartilaginous fishes (dogfish) and urodeles (salamanders), rod OFF bipolar cells and their circuits must have been retained in vertebrate progenitors at least until the Devonian. Recent evidence showing that zebrafish retina processes rod signals similar to those in mammals indicates that rod OFF bipolar cells were lost at least twice. The sole utilization of rod ON bipolar cells may have provided a selective advantage from increased signal‐to‐noise discrimination near the visual threshold.

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Key points

Rods and cones have many structural and molecular similarities to bipolar cells, which are retinal interneurons conveying signals from photoreceptors to the retinal output.

Bipolar cells can be either ON (centre depolarizing) or OFF (centre hyperpolarizing) and either rod or cone dominant.

Lamprey, which diverged from all other vertebrates 500 million years ago, have both ON and OFF bipolar cells, which can each be either rod or cone dominant. We argue that this configuration of separate rod/cone bipolar‐cell pathways is representative of early vertebrates.

Rod ON and rod OFF bipolars persisted at least until the progenitors of amphibians in the Devonian, but mammals and teleost fishes have only rod ON bipolar cells and convey rod OFF signals via a specialized amacrine cell.

We argue that rod OFF bipolar cells were lost in at least two different lineages during vertebrate evolution, probably to increase the signal‐to‐noise of rod vision.
Microplane Constitutive Model for Tension–Compression Asymmetry and Pressure-Sensitive Damage in Polymers
Authors: Wardhekar Sanket , Kirane Kedar
Published: January 2025

The multiaxial damage behavior of brittle polymers is highly complex, involving a stark tension–compression asymmetry and strong pressure sensitivity. These aspects are challenging to predict via phenomenological tensor-based damage models. Recognizing that these behaviors stem from various microscale damage mechanisms, this work presents a novel adaptation of the microplane constitutive model for these materials. The salient feature of the model is the semi-multiscale architecture consisting of “microplanes,” which are imagined planes of various orientations within the material microstructure. Various tensile and compressive damage mechanisms are formulated in terms of stress–strain vectors acting on these microplanes. The homogenized macroscale stress tensor is obtained via the principle of the virtual work. This multiscale arrangement allows simple, intuitive, and physically based formulations of microscale damage mechanisms as well as easy distinction of tension and compression. The mechanisms considered here include tensile microcracking, shear-driven plastic-frictional damage, and far postpeak compression hardening. The formulation involves splitting the volumetric and deviatoric components of stresses, which enables properly capturing Poisson ratios greater than 0.25. It also includes a normal strain dependence of the microplane strain limits governing frictional damage evolution. The model is calibrated and successfully validated against experimental data on several polymers under uniaxial tension, compression, and triaxial compression. The model is demonstrated to capture the tension–compression asymmetry of the inelastic behavior, as well as the pressure-sensitive nonlinear behavior under triaxial compression, in excellent agreement with experiments. Notably, the predictions under triaxial compression are found to outperform the Drucker Prager model, thus highlighting the superior potential of the microplane modeling approach for multiaxial damage in polymers.
Coefficient of Restitution in a Low-Velocity Normal Impact Using Elastoplastic Contact Stiffness
Authors: Iqbal Uzair , Revankar A. Gautam , Kasula Vineethkumar , Bobji M. S.
Published: January 2025

Elastoplastic deformation during particle impact occurs widely in many engineering applications. The material properties characterizing both the elastic and plastic behavior play an important role in particle impact. A non-linear contact stiffness-based model representing the elastic and plastic deformation of the material is used to obtain the coefficient of restitution during the impact of a sphere on a deformable substrate. The model consists of the Maxwell combination of perfectly plastic component and a non-linear elastic component. The proposed model is used to estimate the plastic energy dissipation during the impact. An analytical solution is obtained for residual contact radius and coefficient of restitution expressed in terms of experimentally determinable parameters. Our approach yields a single dimensionless parameter referred to as the “indentation parameter,” Λ, and it is shown that the impact response and coefficient of restitution for various impact situations can be determined based on this indentation parameter. The proposed model accurately predicts the residual contact radius and coefficient of restitution, validated through experimental results of low-velocity impacts (1–4 m/s) over a flat sample of aluminum alloy (Al6061) impacted by steel and zirconia balls. The present model is further compared with other existing theoretical contact models for the elastoplastic impact and the extension of the present model for other dissipative systems is also discussed.
The Effects of Surface Tension on Spherical Oscillatory Indentation of Viscoelastic Materials
Authors: Ding Yue , Yuan Wei-Ke , Chen Shi-Wen , Niu Xinrui , Wang Gang-Feng
Published: January 2025

The oscillatory indentation has become an attractive approach to characterizing the viscoelastic properties of soft biological solids. However, the influences of surface tension on oscillatory responses are ignored, which might lead to an inaccurate measurement of mechanical properties. In this work, the influences of surface tension on spherical oscillatory indentation for viscoelastic materials are investigated through the finite element method. The viscoelasticity of solids is characterized by the standard linear solid model and a sinusoidal displacement is applied as the excitation signal. During an entire cycle at the steady-state of oscillation, both the average value of contact radius and the dissipated energy decrease due to the presence of surface tension. For the oscillatory responses at various frequencies, the existence of surface tension results in an increase in average force but a decrease in phase angle. The force amplitude at low frequencies becomes higher when surface tension is considered. For the evaluation of the complex modulus, neglecting the surface tension would lead to a significant overestimation of storage modulus at low frequencies and an obvious underestimation of loss modulus when the normalized frequency approaches one. Our results provide a comprehensive understanding of the effects of surface tension on the mechanical responses of oscillation and the determination of viscoelastic properties through oscillatory indentation.
The initial solar system abundance of
60
Fe and early core formation of the first asteroids
Authors: Fang Linru , Moynier Frédéric , Chaussidon Marc , Limare Angela , Makhatadze Georgy V. , Villeneuve Johan
Published: January 2025

High-precision Ni isotope analyses of the differentiated andesitic meteorite Erg Chech 002 (EC 002), the oldest known crustal fragment of a planetesimal, show that short-lived
60
Fe was present in the early solar system with an initial
60
Fe/
56
Fe ratio of (7.71 ± 0.47) × 10
−9
, which is five times more precise than previous estimates and is proposed to be the reference value for further studies. Using this ratio, the Ni isotopic composition of EC 002 implies that metal segregation in the source of the EC 002 parental melts took place

0.82

−
0.60

+
0.61

million years (Myr) after solar system formation, and similar very early metal-silicate differentiation ages are obtained for 4-Vesta (

0.95

−
0.76

+
0.95

Myr) and the angrite parent body (

2.27

−
1.29

+
1.98

Myr). Such an early age dictates a specific accretion and differentiation history for the EC 002 parent body, with metal segregation occurring at relatively low temperatures (1000° to 1200°C), followed by a high-temperature silicate melting event.
Adaptive sampling–based structural prediction reveals opening of a GABA
A
receptor through the αβ interface
Authors: Haloi Nandan , Eriksson Lidbrink Samuel , Howard Rebecca J. , Lindahl Erik
Published: January 2025

γ-Aminobutyric acid type A (GABA
A
) receptors are ligand-gated ion channels in the central nervous system with largely inhibitory function. Despite being a target for drugs including general anesthetics and benzodiazepines, experimental structures have yet to capture an open state of classical synaptic α1β2γ2 GABA
A
receptors. Here, we use a goal-oriented adaptive sampling strategy in molecular dynamics simulations followed by Markov state modeling to capture an energetically stable putative open state of the receptor. The model conducts chloride ions with comparable conductance as in electrophysiology measurements. Relative to experimental structures, our open model is relatively expanded at both the cytoplasmic (−2′) and central (9′) gates, coordinated with distinctive rearrangements at the transmembrane αβ subunit interface. Consistent with previous experiments, targeted substitutions disrupting interactions at this interface slowed the open-to-desensitized transition rate. This work demonstrates the capacity of advanced simulation techniques to investigate a computationally and experimentally plausible functionally critical of a complex membrane protein yet to be resolved by experimental methods.
A spatial code for temporal information is necessary for efficient sensory learning
Authors: Bagur Sophie , Bourg Jacques , Kempf Alexandre , Tarpin Thibault , Bergaoui Khalil , Guo Yin , Ceballo Sebastian , Schwenkgrub Joanna , Verdier Antonin , Puel Jean Luc , Bourien Jérôme , Bathellier Brice
Published: January 2025

The temporal structure of sensory inputs contains essential information for their interpretation. Sensory cortex represents these temporal cues through two codes: the temporal sequences of neuronal activity and the spatial patterns of neuronal firing rate. However, it is unknown which of these coexisting codes causally drives sensory decisions. To separate their contributions, we generated in the mouse auditory cortex optogenetically driven activity patterns differing exclusively along their temporal or spatial dimensions. Mice could rapidly learn to behaviorally discriminate spatial but not temporal patterns. Moreover, large-scale neuronal recordings across the auditory system revealed that the auditory cortex is the first region in which spatial patterns efficiently represent temporal cues on the timescale of several hundred milliseconds. This feature is shared by the deep layers of neural networks categorizing time-varying sounds. Therefore, the emergence of a spatial code for temporal sensory cues is a necessary condition to efficiently associate temporally structured stimuli with decisions.
Virtual Gram staining of label-free bacteria using dark-field microscopy and deep learning
Authors: Işıl Çağatay , Koydemir Hatice Ceylan , Eryilmaz Merve , de Haan Kevin , Pillar Nir , Mentesoglu Koray , Unal Aras Firat , Rivenson Yair , Chandrasekaran Sukantha , Garner Omai B. , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: January 2025

Gram staining has been a frequently used staining protocol in microbiology. It is vulnerable to staining artifacts due to, e.g., operator errors and chemical variations. Here, we introduce virtual Gram staining of label-free bacteria using a trained neural network that digitally transforms dark-field images of unstained bacteria into their Gram-stained equivalents matching bright-field image contrast. After a one-time training, the virtual Gram staining model processes an axial stack of dark-field microscopy images of label-free bacteria (never seen before) to rapidly generate Gram staining, bypassing several chemical steps involved in the conventional staining process. We demonstrated the success of virtual Gram staining on label-free bacteria samples containing
Escherichia coli
and
Listeria innocua
by quantifying the staining accuracy of the model and comparing the chromatic and morphological features of the virtually stained bacteria against their chemically stained counterparts. This virtual bacterial staining framework bypasses the traditional Gram staining protocol and its challenges, including stain standardization, operator errors, and sensitivity to chemical variations.
Blocking the isoflavone chemoreceptor in
Phytophthora sojae
to prevent disease
Authors: Ji Peiyun , Bao Yazhou , Zhou Hao , Pei Yong , Song Wen , Ou Kangmiao , Qiao Zijin , Si Jierui , Zhong Zengtao , Xu Xia , Huang Tao , Shen Danyu , Yin Zhiyuan , Dou Daolong
Published: January 2025

Inhibiting pathogen chemotaxis is a promising strategy for reducing disease pressure. However, this strategy is currently in the proof-of-concept stage. Here,
Phytophthora sojae
was used as a model, as its biflagellated zoospores could sense genistein, a soybean root exudate, to navigate host and initiate infection. We identify
P. sojae
IRK1 (isoflavone-insensitive receptor kinase 1) as a receptor for genistein, with PsIRK2 functioning as a coreceptor that enhances the binding affinity of PsIRK1 to genistein and regulates chemotaxis by phosphorylating G protein α subunit. Last, we identify an antagonist, esculetin, which disrupts the PsIRK1-genistein interaction, thereby preventing
P. sojae
infection by repelling zoospores. Our findings reveal the mechanism by which
P. sojae
senses host genistein and demonstrate a strategy for disease prevention by targeting the chemoreceptor.