bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diurnal versus nocturnal surveys for foothill yellow‐legged frogs
Authors: Alvarez Jeff A. , Schmieg Jesse H. , Wilcox Jeffery T.
Published: November 2024

Foothill yellow‐legged frogs (Rana boylii) are a declining species, and methodologies for assessing population occupancy have been associated with only diurnal work on the species. Diurnal visual encounter surveys are typically used to determine presence within suitable habitat; however, studies of ecologically similar species indicate a potential advantage of nocturnal surveys. At 5 sites in 4 counties in California, USA, we compared diurnal and nocturnal surveys (n = 53 paired surveys) for foothill yellow‐legged frogs, conducted 2016‐2023, to determine the value of each survey period. Generally, occupancy probabilities increased 1–22 times, detection probabilities 1–69 times, and estimated abundances 3–12 times during nocturnal versus diurnal surveys. Associated standard errors were also lower in nocturnal versus diurnal surveys. However, we noted 2 locations where diurnal surveys yielded higher detection probability or higher estimates densities compared to nocturnal surveys. We suggest that both diurnal and nocturnal surveys be required when assessing occupancy of foothill yellow‐legged frogs.
Grassland bird responses to bison and prescribed fire in restored tallgrass prairies
Authors: Del Vallé Antonio , Guiden Peter W. , Jones Holly P.
Published: November 2024

Grazing from megaherbivores such as bison (Bison bison) and periodic fire are 2 important disturbance regimes in grassland ecosystems. In restored tallgrass prairies where these processes were previously removed, prescribed fire application and bison reintroduction are tools used by managers to recreate habitat heterogeneity formed by these disturbances. Tallgrass prairie bird communities may be indirectly affected by these disturbances, as bison and prescribed fire alter the structure of critical breeding habitat for grassland birds. The objectives of this research were to determine the effects of bison and prescribed fire on grassland breeding birds in 2 tallgrass prairie preserves in the Midwest region of the United States. We surveyed bird communities, vegetation structure, and bison activity at an Illinois preserve (n = 20 sites) and an Indiana preserve (n = 27 sites) in 2020 and 2021 and compiled a history of restoration activities (e.g., prescribed fire, planting year) at these sites. Grazing and fire disturbances affected grassland bird diversity and abundances, whereas we found little to no evidence that restoration planting age and spatiotemporal factors affected grassland bird populations. Disturbance effects often corresponded to species‐specific responses to changes in vegetation structure. Grassland‐obligate bird diversity was lower in recently burned and ungrazed management units, in comparison to unburned‐ungrazed and unburned‐grazed sites. Henslow's sparrow (Centronyx henslowii), a species known to be sensitive to recent prescribed fire, exhibited increased abundance with time since fire, an increase that was further amplified with bison presence. These results highlight the importance of applying varying levels of grazing and fire disturbance to provide variable vegetation structure to accommodate the habitat preferences of a diversity of grassland bird species. Moreover, our results indicate that bison may play a role in mediating the differing effects of variable prescribed fire frequencies on grassland bird species of concern.
A hybrid network for fiber orientation distribution reconstruction employing multi‐scale information
Authors: Yu Hanyang , Ai Lingmei , Yao Ruoxia , Li Jiahao
Published: November 2024

Background

Accurate fiber orientation distribution (FOD) is crucial for resolving complex neural fiber structures. However, existing reconstruction methods often fail to integrate both global and local FOD information, as well as the directional information of fixels, which limits reconstruction accuracy. Additionally, these methods overlook the spatial positional relationships between voxels, resulting in extracted features that lack continuity. In regions with signal distortion, many methods also exhibit issues with reconstruction artifacts.

Purpose

This study addresses these challenges by introducing a new neural network called Fusion‐Net.

Methods

Fusion‐Net comprises both the FOD reconstruction network and the peak direction estimation network. The FOD reconstruction network efficiently fuses the global and local features of the FOD, providing these features with spatial positional information through a competitive coordinate attention mechanism and a progressive updating mechanism, thus ensuring feature continuity. The peak direction estimation network redefines the task of estimating fixel peak directions as a multi‐class classification problem. It uses a direction‐aware loss function to supply directional information to the FOD reconstruction network. Additionally, we introduce a larger input scale for Fusion‐Net to compensate for local signal distortion by incorporating more global information.

Results

Experimental results demonstrate that the rich FOD features contribute to promising performance in Fusion‐Net. The network effectively utilizes these features to enhance reconstruction accuracy while incorporating more global information, effectively mitigating the issue of local signal distortion.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the feasibility of Fusion‐Net for reconstructing FOD, providing reliable references for clinical applications.
Unraveling the Intricacies of Curiosity: A Comprehensive Study of Its Measures in the Chinese Context
Authors: Tian Yan , Huang Qi , Liu Xianqing , Zhang Jiamin , Ye Yanghua , Wu Haiyan
Published: November 2024

Curiosity, as the strong desire to acquire new information, plays a crucial role in human behaviors. While recent research has delved into the effects, behavioral manifestations, and neural underpinnings of curiosity, the absence of standardized assessment tools for measuring curiosity may hinder advancements in this field. Here, we translated different curiosity scales into Chinese and tested each translated scale by examining its reliability and structural validity. Our results showed that the scores derived from these scales have comparable reliability to those original versions. The confirmatory factor analysis results of the curiosity scales were consistent with previous results. We also found significant associations between different types of curiosity within taxonomy and demonstrated that personality traits such as impulsive sensation seeking, intolerance of uncertainty, and openness can jointly predict trait curiosity. Additionally, we confirmed the social dimension of curiosity, showing that loneliness partially mediates the relationship between social anxiety and social curiosity. This study provides validated Chinese versions of curiosity scales and elucidates the mechanisms of curiosity from multiple perspectives, potentially advancing curiosity research in the Chinese and cross‐cultural contexts.
The disordered negatively charged C‐terminus of the large HECT E3 ubiquitin ligase HERC2 provides structural and thermal stability to the HECTC‐lobe
Authors: Waters Kelly L. , Rich Kayla J. , Schwaegerle Noah D. , Yang Tianyi , Huo Shuanghong , Spratt Donald E.
Published: November 2024

Homologous to the C‐terminus of E6AP (HECT) and RCC1‐like domain (RLD)‐containing protein 2 (HERC2) is a large, 528 kDa E3 ubiquitin ligase that is associated with cancer, oculocutaneous albanism type 2, Prader‐Willi syndrome, and other neurological diseases. HERC2 has been found to contribute to double‐stranded DNA break repairs, tumor suppression, maintaining centrosome architecture, and ubiquitylation. The C‐terminal portion of the HECT domain (C‐lobe) of HERC2 is responsible for transferring ubiquitin to a substrate but the precise function of the other eight domains in HERC2 are unknown. Interestingly, HERC2 contains a unique and negatively charged C‐terminal tail adjoined to the C‐lobe that is predicted to act as a linker to promote interactions between HERC2 and its binding partners. This study aims to better understand the function and relevance of HERC2 in disease by investigating the structural aspects of the HERC2 C‐lobe and HERC2 C‐terminal tail using AlphaFold followed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, multidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and circular dichroism (CD). Secondary structure content analysis from MD simulations and the fully resonance assigned 1H‐15N HSQC spectra of the HERC2 C‐lobe and the isolated C‐terminal tail confirm that the C‐lobe is well‐folded but the C‐terminal tail is disordered. CD melting curves indicate that the flexible C‐terminal tail provides improved stability to the C‐lobe. Additionally, MD simulations have identified that the interaction between residues D4829 and R4728 is prevalent among the non‐bonded contacts between the tail and the C‐lobe. Overall, our results demonstrate that the negatively charged C‐terminal tail is disordered, provides stability to the C‐lobe, and may act as a flexible scaffold for protein–protein interactions.
Natural UV protectants and humectants to improve the efficiency of Steinernema carpocapsae in controlling foliar pests
Authors: Ha Bingjun , Wei Xianqin , Lu Peiyu , Qing Hui , Guo Jinxuan , Zhang Renjia , Chen Lei , Li Xingyue , Hu Bin , Wang Shuaiyu , Xu Yang , Fu Zhen , Shapiro‐Ilan David , Ruan Weibin
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are recognized as effective biocontrol agents against various soil‐dwelling pests. However, their efficacy in managing leaf pests is often constrained by factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation and desiccation.

RESULTS

We evaluated the protective effects of five plant‐derived substances, including grape seed extract, sodium copper chlorophyllin, vitamin C, β‐carotene and lutein, on Steinernema carpocapsae upon exposure to three wavelengths of artificial ultraviolet radiation (UVA, UVB, UVC). The five protectants showed efficient protective effects. Notably, grape seed extract, sodium copper chlorophyllin and vitamin C exhibited significant protective effects on infective juveniles (IJs) even after exposure to UVC for 4, 8 and 12 h. Under natural sunlight conditions, we combined these UV protectants with three humectants and evaluated their effects on IJ viability. Orthogonal experiments revealed that the combination treatment of 0.2% grape seed extract and 0.1% fire blocking gel yielded the highest IJ survival rate. This foliar formulation was tested in the field, leading to significantly higher mortality of Tuta absoluta compared with EPNs only.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the formulation containing UV protectants and humectants effectively overcome the limitations encountered in the foliar application of EPNs, thereby enhancing their potential for pest management in agricultural contexts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The versatility of peptide hydrogels: From self‐assembly to drug delivery applications
Authors: Heremans Julie , Ballet Steven , Martin Charlotte
Published: November 2024

Pharmaceuticals often suffer from limitations such as low solubility, low stability, and  short half‐life. To address these challenges and reduce the need for frequent drug administrations, a more efficient delivery is required. In this context, the development of controlled drug delivery systems, acting as a protective depot for the drug, has expanded significantly over the last decades. Among these, injectable hydrogels have emerged as a promising platform, especially in view of the rise of biologicals as therapeutics. Hydrogels are functional, solid‐like biomaterials, composed of cross‐linked hydrophilic polymers and high water content. Their physical properties, which closely mimic the extracellular matrix, make them suitable for various biomedical applications. This review discusses the different types of hydrogel systems and their self‐assembly process, with an emphasis on peptide‐based hydrogels. Due to their structural and functional diversity, biocompatibility, synthetic accessibility, and tunability, peptides are regarded as promising and versatile building blocks. A comprehensive overview of the variety of peptide hydrogels is outlined, with β‐sheet forming sequences being highlighted. Key factors to consider when using peptide hydrogels as a controlled drug delivery system are reviewed, along with a discussion of the main drug release mechanisms and the emerging trend towards affinity‐based systems to further refine drug release profiles.
Decentralized Robust Tracking Control of Interconnected Nonlinear‐Constrained Systems: A Dynamic Event‐Sampled Method
Authors: Zheng Wenqian , Yang Xiong
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a decentralized robust dynamic event‐sampled tracking (EST) control law for interconnected nonlinear‐constrained systems. The core of developing such a control law is to convert the original EST control problem into the event‐sampled decentralized stabilization problem of augmented interconnected systems. To address the transformed decentralized stabilization problem, an indirect approach relying on the optimal control methodology is proposed. Initially, a group of cost functions are constructed for the nominal subsystems related to the augmented interconnected systems. Then, the dynamic event‐sampling mechanisms are introduced for lessening the computational burden. Meanwhile, the event‐sampled Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations (ES‐HJBEs) are proposed for the augmented interconnected systems. To approximately solve the ES‐HJBEs, the critic approximators are used with their parameters tuned under the reinforcement learning framework. After that, the uniform ultimate boundedness of the tracking errors and the approximators' parameter estimation errors are assured based on the Lyapunov theorem. Finally, a nonlinear plant is provided to validate the decentralized robust dynamic EST control law.
Does financial inclusion enhance farmers' resilience to climate change? Evidence from rural Ethiopia
Authors: Negera Mebratu , Alemu Tekie , Hagos Fitsum , Haileslassie Amare
Published: November 2024

Financial inclusion is recognized as a vital driver of sustainable development and serves as a fundamental pillar of climate action. It is crucial to enhance the climate resilience of smallholder farmers in the face of severe and unpredictable climate shocks, which disproportionately affect them. However, the level of financial inclusion in Ethiopia remains low, and its impact on the climate resilience of smallholder farmers has not been thoroughly examined using rigorous model and comprehensive dataset. This study investigates the impact of financial inclusion on the climate resilience of rural households, using a large data set from the Ethiopian Socio‐Economic Survey. The principal component analysis was applied to construct a climate resilience index. The financial inclusion was measured using an index that encompasses three dimensions: penetration, availability, and usage. In order to address the endogenous nature of financial inclusion, an instrumental variable approach was employed, using the distance to the nearest financial institution and religion as instrumental variables. The results demonstrated a positive and significant impact of financial inclusion on the climate resilience of rural households. Therefore, the government should strengthen the provision of essential financial and related infrastructures in rural Ethiopia to improve access to financial products and services. Furthermore, it is essential for policymakers to initiate and implement financial sector reforms that ensure the availability of affordable and tailored financial services. These reforms should also prioritize the development of climate‐resilient agricultural finance, thereby contributing to the achievement of climate action goal of sustainable development.
Ranking Quality of Life Index in Indonesian Provinces: A Multicriteria Approach for Sustainable Regional Development
Authors: Muthia Dita , Zahedi  , Nusantara Badai Charamsar
Published: November 2024

This study aims to assess and rank the quality of life across 34 provinces in Indonesia using Multi‐Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) with the Organization, Rangement Et Synthèse De Données Relationnelles (ORESTE) method. The assessment was conducted based on seven main domains of quality of life: emotional well‐being, health, employment and productive activities, material well‐being, community participation, personal safety, and environmental quality. The results show that DKI Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Bali ranked the highest with scores of 1748, 2164, and 2195, respectively. In contrast, Papua, West Papua, and West Sulawesi ranked at the bottom with scores of 5375, 4790, and 4573.5, respectively. The ORESTE method also successfully identified situations of incomparability between some provinces, confirming that not all provinces can be directly compared due to their unique characteristics. Sensitivity analysis reveals that changes in criteria weights do not significantly affect the ranking results, indicating that the outcomes are stable and robust. This study makes a significant contribution by providing a foundation for policymakers to formulate more equitable and inclusive development strategies aimed at reducing disparities in quality of life across provinces in Indonesia.
Catalytic Conversion of 2‐Phenethyl Phenyl Ether and 2‐Phenoxy‐1‐Phenyl Ethanol Over ZSM‐5, Y and Beta Zeolites
Authors: Le Tan Minh , Pham Xuan‐Tien , Ho Phuoc Hoang , Pham Thong Le Minh , Cao Xuan Thang , Nguyen Thanh Ngoc , Giang Ha Ngoc , Phung Thanh Khoa
Published: November 2024

Catalytic conversion of 2‐phenoxy‐1‐phenyl ethanol (PPE‐OH) and 2‐phenethyl phenyl ether (PPE) was conducted in an autoclave reactor using Faujasite zeolite (HY), Beta zeolite (HBEA), and Zeolite Socony Mobil‐5 (HZSM‐5) with medium and large pore channels. All catalysts were thoroughly analyzed using various techniques like FT‐IR, N2 physisorption, XRD, SEM‐EDX, NH3‐TPD, ICP spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The results showed that HBEA and HY catalysts, with their larger pore channels and sizes, exhibited excellent activity in breaking the ether bond of PPE‐OH. HBEA and HY zeolites exhibited almost full conversion of PPE‐OH at 240 °C and 1 h, and HZSM‐5 zeolite obtained only 47% conversion of PPE‐OH at the same condition. The cleavage of the ether bond of β‐O‐4 linkage was performed over HBEA and HY zeolites better than HZSM‐5 zeolite. Moreover, high‐strong acid sites of HBEA zeolite favored breaking PPE at 240 °C and 1 h, and PPE did not convert over HY and HZSM‐5 zeolites at the same condition. These findings highlight the crucial role of pore size and channels and the acidity of catalysts for converting large molecules like lignin. This study provides valuable insights into using zeolite catalysts for breaking down the β‐O‐4 linkage in lignin.
Highly Water‐Stable 2D MOF as Dual Sensor for the Ultra‐Sensitive Aqueous Phase Detection of Nitrofuran Antibiotics and Organochlorine Pesticides
Authors: Mondal Supriya , Sahoo Rupam , Das Madhab C.
Published: November 2024

Misuse of antibiotics and pesticides has led to hazardous effects on human health, livestock, agriculture, and aquaculture, which urges researchers to find simple, rapid, efficient, and cost‐effective methods for quick on‐site analysis of these organic pollutants with functional materials. Herein, a 2D chemically robust MOF: IITKGP‐71, {[Cd(MBPz)(2,6‐NDC)]·2H2O}n is strategically developed with ease in scalability and exploited as dual sensors toward the toxic antibiotic and pesticide detection via luminescence quenching in aqueous medium. The framework displays exceptional chemical robustness in water for 3 months, in an open atmosphere over 2 months, and wide range of aqueous pH solution (pH = 3–12) for a day. IITKGP‐71 can selectively quench the nitrofuran antibiotics (NFZ and NFT) and organochlorine pesticide DCN while remaining unaffected by other interfering antibiotics and pesticides, respectively. An excellent trade‐off between high effectivity (high Ksv) and high sensitivity (low LOD) was achieved for the targeted analytes. The easy scalability, high chemical stability, fast responsivity, multi‐responsive nature, recyclability with outstanding structural stability made this framework viable in playing a crucial role in safeguarding aquatic ecosystems and public health from the hazardous effects of antibiotics and pesticides.
A Near‐Infrared II Photo‐Triggered Multifunctional Plasmonic Hyperthermia Immunomodulator for SERS‐Guided Combination Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Linhu , Jiang Renting , Yu Jin‐Feng , Li Ming
Published: November 2024

Immunotherapy represents a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment, but its clinical applications are currently hindered by insufficient therapeutic potency, nonspecific delivery, and adverse side effects. Herein, a novel near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) photo‐triggered plasmonic hyperthermia immunomodulator (RP@IR‐pcNS@HA nanoparticles (NPs)) for anticancer treatment of both primary and distant cancers is reported. This immunomodulator comprises an IR‐1061 dye‐encoded NIR‐II porous cubic AuAg nanoshell (pcNS) loaded with a Toll‐like receptor 7 agonist – R837 in phase change materials (PCMs), further modified with hyaluronic acid (HA). In response to NIR‐II photoirradiation, the RP@IR‐pcNS@HA NPs controllably deliver and release R837 to tumor sites, subsequently perform plasmonic hyperthermia therapy for direct ablation of primary tumors, and elicit robust anticancer immune responses. It is demonstrated that upon NIR‐II irradiation, such a plasmonic hyperthermia immunomodulator combined with anti‐programmed death 1 antibody (αPD‐1) completely eradicates both primary and distant cancers. In addition, this combination treatment successfully elicits robust immune memory responses for effective suppression of recurrence and distant metastasis of cancer. With the excellent NIR‐II surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection ability, the RP@IR‐pcNS@HA NPs combined with αPD‐1 represent an efficient way to develop high‐performance theranostic agents for SERS‐guided combination cancer photoimmunotherapy.
Hair growth effect of Sasa veitchii extract in mice
Authors: Kitaoka Satoshi , Kusunoki Yoshiki , Sugiyama Kiyoshi
Published: November 2024

Aim

Kumazasa leaves have long been used in Japan as a folk remedy to treat anorexia, fatigue, bad breath, body odor, and stomatitis. In this study, we investigated whether kumazasa extract has a hair growth effect.

Methods

Using human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPC), we investigated the cell proliferation effect of kumazasa extract and the expression induction effect of aquaporin 1 (AQP1). We also used minoxidil as a positive control, applied kumazasa extract to mice that had been depilated, and investigated whether it had a hair growth effect and a side effect of causing inflammation.

Results

Kumazasa extract was found to promote HFDPC proliferation and increase AQP1 expression per cell. This effect was similar to that of epidermal growth factor (EGF). When kumazasa extract was applied to a mouse model, it showed a hair growth effect equivalent to that of minoxidil. Meanwhile, an inflammatory response was observed in the minoxidil group but not in the kumazasa group.

Conclusion

KumazasaKumazasa extract has a hair growth effect without causing inflammation. It was suggested that this effect may be related to the proliferation‐promoting effect of kumazasa extract on HFDPC. The causal relationship between the proliferation‐promoting effect of kumazasa extract on HFDPC and the AQP1 expression‐enhancing effect could not be clarified in this study.
The traits and skills of an effective leader
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: November 2024

Not long ago I found myself in the local Barnes and Noble in the section marked Leadership. I came across the book Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek. Intrigued by the title, I bought the book, and after reading it, realized that many of the principles outlined could apply to leadership in higher education.
Equivalence of the Weighted Fractional Sobolev Space on a Disk with Characterization by the Decay Rate of Fourier–Jacobi Coefficients and K-Interpolation
Authors: Ervin V. J.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, motivated by the analysis of the fractional Laplace equation on the unit disk in $$\mathbb {R}^{2}$$

R

2

, we establish a characterisation of the weighted Sobolev space $$H_{\gamma }^{s}(\Omega )$$

H

γ

s

(
Ω
)

in terms of the decay rate of Fourier–Jacobi coefficients. This framework is then used to give a precise analysis of the solution to the fractional Laplace equation on the unit disk.
Excess particulate organic matter negatively affects the ecophysiology of the widespread soft coral Xenia umbellata
Authors: Hill C. E. L. , Rücker J. , Eichhorn N. , Mezger S. D. , Caporale G. , El-Khaled Y. C. , Blanco C. S. V. , Wild C. , Tilstra A.
Published: November 2024

Coastal coral reefs are experiencing rising concentrations of organic matter. While dissolved organic matter (DOM), rather than particulate organic matter (POM), may negatively impact hard corals, the impact on soft corals remains unclear. We examined the physiological effect of 20 mg L−1 of organic carbon (C) addition on the widespread Indo-Pacific soft coral Xenia umbellata in a series of tank experiments over 28 days. We supplied DOM as glucose, and two POM sources as phytoplankton (2–5 μm length) and zooplankton (150–200 μm length). We comparatively assessed coral morphology, pulsation, colouration, algal symbiont densities, chlorophyll a, oxygen fluxes, and mortality. Corals in the control and DOM enrichment treatments exhibited no morphological or physiological changes, whereas, excess phyto- and zooplankton caused disfigurement of the polyp tentacles and shortening of its pinnules. This coincided with a mortality of 11 and 14%, respectively, a 35% reduction in pulsation rates, and darkening of the polyps (with excess zooplankton), while other assessed response variables remained stable. This suggests that in contrast to many hard corals, the soft coral X. umbellata is vulnerable to excess POM rather than DOM, with amplified effects upon exposure to larger particles. Our results suggest that excess POM may damage the delicate feeding apparatus of X. umbellata, thereby reducing pulsation and lowering gas exchange. In turn, this can cause nutritional, and ultimately, energy deficiencies by directly affecting heterotrophic and autotrophic feeding. Our findings indicate that the global-change-resilient soft coral X. umbellata is vulnerable to local eutrophication, particularly high concentrations of POM.
Role of mucosal IgA antibodies as novel therapies to enhance mucosal barriers
Authors: Gao Peng , Morita Naoki , Shinkura Reiko
Published: November 2024

To prevent infection, the experience of the recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2) pandemic has led to recognition of the importance of not only vaccines but also the strengthening of mucosal barriers by secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA). Strong mucosal barrier provided by IgA is also possible to prevent allergies and chronic inflammatory conditions in the intestinal tract, since it can protect foreign enemies or antigens at the first line of defense before their invasion. Therefore, it is important to understand the role of IgA antibodies secreted by the mucosa of the body. In this section, we discuss the role of mucosal IgA antibodies in relation to three disease states: control of intestinal microbiota, protection against infection, and allergy. In addition, we provide the evidence in which the quality as well as the quantity of IgA is critical for disease prevention. Therefore, we discuss about novel strategies to enhance mucosal barriers by induction of high-quality IgA.
PCSK-9-inhibitor therapy improves endothelial function in high-risk patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Kannenkeril Dennis , Bosch Agnes , Kolwelter Julie , Striepe Kristina , Berner Laura , Pietschner Robert , Ott Christian , Schiffer Mario , Achenbach Stephan , Schmieder Roland E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Impaired endothelial function predicts cardiovascular events. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of evolocumab on endothelial function in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Methods

This was a prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled, single center study including patients with cardiovascular disease and treated with statins. Patients were consecutively randomized (1:1) to either evolocumab treatment or placebo. All patients underwent examination of endothelial function at baseline, and after 1, 4 and 8 weeks of treatment by a semi-automatic high-resolution ultrasound system (UNEX EF 18G). Parameters of endothelial function were flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), low flow-mediated vasoconstriction (L-FMC) and vasoactive range (VAR).

Results

Hundred three patients with a mean age of 66.2 ± 7.7 years and a mean LDL-cholesterol of 98 ± 19.1 mg/dl completed the study. The change in VAR from baseline to week 8 was significantly different with evolocumab compared to placebo (p = 0.045). Moreover, VAR increased after 8 weeks of treatment with evolocumab compared to baseline (p = 0.034). No change has been noticed in FMD and L-FMC after 8 weeks of treatment with evolocumab.

In subgroup analyses, VAR improved in patients with age ≤ 67 years, lower systolic blood pressure (≤ 125 mmHg) and higher baseline LDL-cholesterol (> 95 mg/dl), (p = 0.006, p = 0.049 and p = 0.042, respectively) after 8 weeks of evolocumab treatment. No serious adverse event related to study medication occurred during the study.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that endothelial function improved with evolocumab treatment in high-risk patients on statin therapy with preexisting cardiovascular disease. Our results contribute to the mechanistic explanation why lower incidence of the cardiovascular composite endpoint has been demonstrated in the FOURIER study.

Graphical abstract
Association of adenoid hypertrophy and clinical parameters with preoperative polygraphy in pediatric patients undergoing adenoidectomy
Authors: Lein Alexander , Altumbabic Hasan , Đešević Miralem , Baumgartner Wolf-Dieter , Salkic Almir , Umihanic Sekib , Ramaš Almedina , Harčinović Alen , Kosec Andro , Brkic Faris F.
Published: November 2024

Background

Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the most frequent cause for obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) in children. In patients with small tonsils and where adenoid size cannot be assessed, the indication for adenoidectomy often relies on clinical symptoms. However, data on the association of clinical parameters and adenoid hypertrophy with OSAS severity in children undergoing an adenoidectomy is sparse.

Aim

To investigate the correlation of patient characteristics, adenoid hypertrophy, and clinical symptoms with OSAS severity in pediatric patients indicated for an adenoidectomy.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of all pediatric patients at our tertiary referral center between 2018 and 2023 who underwent polygraphy (PG) for OSAS diagnostics. Adenoid hypertrophy was assessed as adenoid-choanal ratio (AC-ratio) via nasal endoscopy and clinical symptom score (CS) via physical examination and parental survey. We included all symptomatic children with mild to severe OSAS (apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 1). Exclusion criteria were obesity according to BMI and/or the presence of systemic diseases. The patients were divided according to age in a preschool and school cohort. Patient characteristics and PG data were compared between both groups. Linear regression analysis was used to investigate the association of AC-ratio, CS and BMI with the AHI.

Results

A total of 121 patients were identified of which 81 were included in our study, resulting in 42 and 39 patients from 3–5 and 6–14 years of age, respectively. We observed a significant correlation between CS and BMI (p = 0.026) and the CS and AC-ratio (p < 0.001). Univariable regression analysis showed significant association of the AC-ratio and CS with AHI-score for the total (p < 0.001), the preschool (p < 0.001), and the school cohort (p < 0.001). In multivariable regression analysis, the significant association of AC-ratio and CS remained in the total (p = 0.014; p < 0.001), and the preschool cohort (p = 0.029; p = 0.002). However, only the CS remained as positive predictor in the school cohort.

Conclusion

AC-ratio and clinical symptoms seem to be reliable predictors for OSAS severity in patients between 3–14 years of age. Moreover, only clinical symptoms were associated with OSAS severity in schoolchildren. Future investigation should contribute to the validation of our results
Archaenybelina gen. nov. (Trypanorhyncha Diesing, 1863) from Mobula thurstoni (Lloyd, 1908), including the description of two new species from Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Wulandari Suryaningtyas Endang , Neitemeier-Duventester Xaver , Damriyasa I. Made , Frank Marcus , Haseli Mohammad , Palm Harry W.
Published: November 2024

Two specimens of Mobula thurstoni (Lloyd, 1908) were obtained from fishermen of Karangasem, Indonesia, and studied for trypanorhynch cestodes. Archaenybelina gen. nov., including two new species A. pseudotetrabothrialis sp. nov. and A. mimicricestus sp. nov., were recorded from the stomach and spiral valve and analysed for details of scolex and segment morphology, and surface ultrastructure. The new genus is characterized by 4 asymmetrical bothria separated by deep posterior notches, the presence of tegumental grooves, a homeoacanthous heteromorphous armature and a unique segment morphology. Both species can be separated by different hook sizes, basal hook rows and distribution of bothrial microtriches. Scolex surface ultrastructure shows hamulate spinitriches on bothria, lineate spinitriches along bothrial margins, and papilliform filitriches on the scolex peduncle. Similar microtriches have been reported from the bothrial margins of the Tentaculariidae. Tegumental grooves with a probably secretory function based on histology are present on the posterior bothrial margin. A collar of uncinate microtriches appear at the outer surface, separated from an internal bulbous structure, clearly distinguish this organ from the ciliated pits of the Otobothriidae. Based on four bothria, appearing not entirely separated at the anterior part of the scolex that indicates an originally bifossate state, a homeoacanthous heteromorphous armature, tegumental grooves, the absence of prebulbar organs and the presence of muscular rings, we assign the new genus into the Paranybeliniidae Schmidt, 1970. Describing first details of the segment morphology add to the family diagnosis in the most recent classification. The unique morphology of the new genus including its potential life cycle that involves oceanic devil rays as final and euphausiid crustaceans as second intermediate hosts are discussed.
Relationship among cancer treatment, quality of life, and oral function in head and neck cancer survivors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yokoi Aya , Maruyama Takayuki , Yamanaka Reiko , Takeuchi Noriko , Morita Manabu , Ekuni Daisuke
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC), such as surgery and chemoradiotherapy, can reduce oral function and affect quality of life (QoL). However, whether HNC treatment affects QoL via the decline of oral function remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among cancer treatment, QoL, and actual oral function in HNC survivors.

Methods

A total of 100 HNC survivors who had completed definitive treatment for HNC at least 6 months prior to enrollment were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. QoL was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 summary score. Oral diadochokinesis (ODK), tongue pressure, moisture level on the mucosal surface, and mouth opening were measured. Information on age, sex, tumor site, tumor stage, history of HNC treatment, height, body weight, and lifestyle were collected from medical records. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted to analyze the indirect/direct associations among HNC treatment, QoL, and oral function.

Results

In total, 100 HNC survivors (58 males and 42 females; age range, 30–81 years, median, 67 years) were analyzed. Overall, 63 patients (63.0%) were diagnosed as oral cancer, 66 (66.0%) developed advanced cancer (stage 3/4), and 58 (58.0%) underwent reconstruction surgery in 100 HNC survivors. The SEM results supported the hypothesized structural model (root mean square error of approximation = 0.044, comparative fit index = 0.990, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.986). Surgery with neck dissection and reconstruction for advanced cancer had indirect effects on lower QoL via ODK and mouth opening.

Conclusion

HNC treatment is indirectly associated with QoL via oral function in HNC survivors.
Sparse attention is all you need for pre-training on tabular data
Authors: Isomura Tokimasa , Shimizu Ryotaro , Goto Masayuki
Published: November 2024

In the world of data-driven decision-making, tabular data reigns supreme as the most prevalent and crucial format, especially in business contexts. However, data scarcity remains a recurring challenge. In this context, transfer learning has emerged as a potent solution. This study explores the untapped potential of transfer learning in the realm of tabular data analysis, with a focus on leveraging deep learning models—especially the Transformer model—that have garnered significant recognition. Our research investigates the intricacies of tabular data and illuminates the shortcomings of conventional attention mechanisms in the Transformer model when applied to such structured datasets. This highlights the pressing requirement need for specialized solutions tailored to tabular data. We introduce an innovative transfer learning method based on series of thoroughly designed experiments across diverse business domains. This approach harnesses Transformer-based models enhanced with optimized sparse attention mechanisms, offering a groundbreaking solution for tabular data analysis. Our findings reveal the remarkable effectiveness of enhancing the attention mechanism within the Transformer in transfer learning. Specifically, pre-training with sparse attention proves increasingly powerful as data volumes increase, resulting in superior performance on large datasets. Conversely, fine-tuning with full attention becomes more impactful when data availability decreases in downstream tasks, ensuring adaptability in situations with limited data. The empirical results presented in this study provide compelling evidence of the revolutionary potential of our approach. Our optimized sparse attention model emerges as a powerful tool for researchers and practitioners seeking highly effective solutions for tabular data tasks. As tabular data remain the backbone of business operations, our study promises to revolutionize data analysis in critical domains. This work bridges the gap between limited data availability and the requirement for effective analysis in business settings, marking a significant step forward in the field of tabular data analysis.
Cancer-specific utility: clinical validation of the EORTC QLU-C10D in patients with glioblastoma
Authors: Seyringer Simone , Pilz Micha J. , Bottomley Andrew , King Madeleine T. , Norman Richard , Gamper Eva M. ,   EORTC Quality of Life Group
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Many health economic evaluations rely on the validity of the utility measurement for health-related quality of life (HRQoL). While generic utility measures perform well in HRQoL assessments of many diseases and patient populations, appropriateness for cancer-specific disease burdens needs attention and condition-specific measures could be a viable option. This study assessed the clinical validity of the cancer-specific EORTC QLU-C10D, a utility scoring algorithm for the EORTC QLQ-C30, in patients with glioblastoma. We expect the EORTC QLU-C10D to be sensitive and responsive in glioblastoma patients. Furthermore, we compared its statistical efficiency with the generic utility measure EQ-5D-3L.

Methods

We used data from a multi-center randomized controlled trial (NCT00689221) with patients from 146 study sites in 25 countries. Both, the QLQ-C30 and the EQ-5D-3L, had been administered at seven assessment points together. Utilities of both measures were calculated for four country value set (Australia, Canada, UK, USA). Ceiling effects, agreement (Bland–Altman plots (BA), intra-class correlation (ICC)), were calculated to analyze construct validity. Sensitivity to known-groups (performance status; global health) and responsiveness to changes (progressive vs. non-progressive; stable vs. improved or deteriorated HRQoL) were investigated for clinical validity. Relative Efficiency (RE) was calculated to compare statistical efficiency of both utility measures.

Results

435 patients were included at baseline and six subsequent time points (median timeframe 497 days). QLU-C10D country value set showed negligible ceiling effects (< 6.7%) and high agreement with EQ-5D-3L (ICC > 0.750). BA indicated that differences between both utility measures increased with deteriorating health states. While the QLU-C10D was more sensitive to global health groups (RE > 1.2), the EQ-5D-3L was more sensitive to performance status groups (RE < 0.7) than the other utility measure. Statistical efficiency to detect differences between change groups and within HRQoL deterioration group (RE > 1.4) favored QLU-C10D in 18 of 24 (75%) and 20 of 24 (83%) comparisons with the EQ-5D-3L respectively. Responsiveness to overall HRQoL change (RE > 3.4) also favored the QLU-C10D.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that the QLU-C10D is a valid utility measure to assess HRQoL in patients with glioblastoma. This facilitates the investigation of HRQoL profiles and utilities in this patient population by administering a single questionnaire, the EORTC QLQ-C30. Efficiency analyses point to higher statistical power of the QLU-C10D compared to the EQ-5D-3L.
The higher abundance of host plant and suitable management recommended as the important elements in the conservation of Phengaris (Maculinea) teleius (Bergsträser, 1779) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) in the Hradné lúky SAC meadows (Slovakia)
Authors: Masarovič Rudolf , Kršáková Petra , Lehotská Blanka , Ružičková Jana , Balcerčík Jozef , Purkart Adrián
Published: November 2024

This article presents a study of the isolated population of the scarce large blue butterfly, which is facing a significant threat in the meadows of the central part of Slovakia. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of management, the presence of great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis (L.)), and the host ants on the abundance of Phengaris teleius in the Hradné lúky Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in Slovakia. The study area was divided into six study plots. The abundance of S. officinalis host plant and ant communities, with emphasis on host ants (Myrmica scabrinodis (Nylander, 1846) and M. rubra (Linnaeus, 1758)), were analysed at each study plot. A generalized linear model (GLM) identified the significant relationships among three variables. Specifically, a relationship was confirmed between the number of P. teleius individuals and the abundance of the host plant S. officinalis, as well as between the number of P. teleius individuals and the current type of management at the specific biotope. The most important conservation recommendations regarding this study have been presented. Implications for insect conservation: Our results indicate that in the protection of P. teleius, it is important to support the abundance of S. officinalis as highly as possible. In addition, we confirm that targeted management with the absence of mowing in the critical phase of the year, especially in the Molinia meadows, is important for maintaining a healthy butterfly population.
Delegated Autonomy in Multi-Agency Viable Systems: Social and Systemic Factors During Crisis
Authors: Fattoum Ayham
Published: November 2024

Autonomy is essential for the emancipation and viability of systems and empowers individuals and teams to make decisions and act with flexibility and agility. This becomes particularly significant in volatile environments, where rapid decision-making is particularly important for system responsiveness. The viable system model (VSM) advocates maximum operational autonomy as a fundamental condition of viability. Having autonomy structured in a system is core to a viable design. While ensuring operational autonomy is core for effective response in complex and volatile environments, the paper explores through a case study some reasons why autonomy may not be exercised properly in the middle of a crisis. It does so by analysing the factors that influence how delegated autonomy is perceived and exercised in a multi-agency emergency response system during its operations. It does so by analysing qualitative data collected in a UK county that responded to a major disaster. The findings suggest that discrepancies resulting from systemic and social factors such as identity, values, ethos, and risk aversion created difficulties for operational teams in responding autonomously. The paper offers three contributions to VSM First, it provides insight into the importance of including social awareness and systemic analysis in viability diagnosis to ensure its practical value. Second, it suggests ways to deepen this type of analysis and further clarify the VSM theory about challenges to developing operational autonomy. Third, it contributes to the discourse on system emancipation in soft OR by showing the significance of multi-methodological diagnosis that it includes, in addition to structural diagnosis, identifying conflicts among systems elements as well as human interactions and interpretations.