bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of fluconazole use on the fungal and bacterial microbiomes in recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (RVVC): a pilot study of vaginal and gastrointestinal site interplay
Authors: Bradfield Strydom Moira , Nelson Tiffanie M. , Khan Sohil , Walpola Ramesh L. , Ware Robert S. , Tiralongo Evelin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (RVVC) is a problematic clinical condition for which fluconazole treatment is commonly prescribed. This study investigated the interkingdom vaginal and gastrointestinal microbiomes of RVVC patients who use fluconazole intermittently or as longer-term maintenance therapy for symptom management and compared them to healthy controls.

Methods

Vaginal swabs and fecal samples were collected. A novel interkingdom analysis was performed using 16 S rRNA and ITS1 gene sequencing to compare the diversity and taxonomic composition of vaginal microbiome (VMB) and gastrointestinal microbiome (GIMB).

Results

Twenty-seven women participated: 10 intermittent users and healthy controls and 7 maintenance therapy. The study revealed that microbiomes of fluconazole users do not differ in diversity metrics from healthy controls. RVVC patients using intermittent fluconazole displayed a higher abundance of vaginal C. albicans than healthy controls. Candida species pairings were not commonly observed between sites in individuals and, as such a fecal reservoir is unlikely to be implicated in recurrent symptomatology. In many of the RVVC non-Candida fungal spp. were identified in the vaginal microbiome. Users of fluconazole displayed elevations of the CST-I (Community State Type 1) associated bacterium L. crispatus. All participants displaying vaginal Candida spp. belonged to either bacterial CST-I or CST-III (Community State Type 3- L. iners associated).

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare the interkingdom VMB-GIMB of women with RVVC using oral fluconazole. As fluconazole users in this study represent a typical RVVC population, trends observed in microbial abundance require further analysis to establish fluconazole’s long-term microbiome safety. Examining the microbiome at both sites adds to the current understanding of microbial associated with the condition.
Radiation-induced malignancies after stereotactic radiosurgery for brain arteriovenous malformations: a large single-center retrospective study and systematic review
Authors: Hirata Takeru , Umekawa Motoyuki , Shinya Yuki , Hasegawa Hirotaka , Katano Atsuto , Shinozaki-Ushiku Aya , Saito Nobuhito
Published: November 2024

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is widely utilized to treat small- and medium-sized brain arteriovenous malformations (BAVMs); however, radiation-induced malignancies (RIMs) have been reported as extremely rare yet potentially life-threatening complications of SRS. This study aimed to investigate the risk of RIMs after SRS for BAVMs. The outcomes of patients who underwent single-session SRS for BAVMs at our institution and were followed for ≥ 5 years were analyzed to calculate the incidence of RIMs. In addition, a systematic review was conducted using the existing literature reporting RIMs after SRS for BAVMs in compliance with the PRISMA guideline. Regarding the in-hospital analysis, only one (0.18%) RIM (gliosarcoma) was observed among 569 patients, with a median follow-up period of 151 months (interquartile range, 103–255 months). The 15, 20, and 25-year cumulative incidences of RIMs were 0%, 0%, and 1.01%, respectively, whereas the overall incidence rate was 0.12 per 1,000 patient-years. In the systematic review, 14 studies were included, with the incidence of RIMs ranging from 0.00 to 0.24%. Eight patients with RIMs were identified, and the most common pathology was glioblastoma. The median time until the diagnosis of RIM was 7.1 years (range, 4–19 years) after SRS, and their clinical courses were largely dismal, with the post-diagnosis survival periods being 1–10 months. RIM constitutes an extremely rare but potentially fatal complication following SRS for BAVMs, with its incidence rate being at most 0.24%.
Life cycle assessment of plastic waste management in Mozambique
Authors: dos Muchangos Letícia Sarmento , Ito Lisa , Tokai Akihiro
Published: November 2024

Low-income coastal nations such as Mozambique grapple with providing sustainable and effective management of plastic waste (PW), which influences the increase in disease prevalence and of diverse adverse environmental impacts, primarly terrestrial and marine pollution. About 490,000 tons, from domestic generation and imports, make up the total PW in the system. In this study, a life cycle assessment (LCA) was employed to clarify the associated environmental impacts of 1 kg of PW within the waste management system in Mozambique. It was explained that over 95% of PW ended up in open dumpsites, with about 60% open burned, significantly impacting the ecotoxicity and global warming categories—5.49 kg of 1,4-dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB) for terrestrial ecotoxicity, 4.99 kg of 1,4-DCB for human non-carcinogenic ecotoxicity, and 1.57 kg of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2 eq) for global warming potential. The findings provide a quantitative baseline understanding of PW management impacts in the country, thus identifying junctures and opportunities that can help inform and enable the development of policies and strategies for a sustainable PW management system.

Graphical abstract
Untangling Digital Safety, literacy, and Wellbeing in School activities for 10 to 13 Year Old Students
Authors: Cowling Michael , Sim Kwong Nui , Orlando Joanne , Hamra Jafar
Published: November 2024

In an era where digital technologies penetrate every aspect of education and a growing body of research examining various aspects of digital safety, there exists a significant research gap concerning the overarching (holistic) influence of digital activities on the schooling of 10 to 13 year olds. This paper presents a comprehensive review that untangles the complex relationship between digital safety, literacy, and wellbeing in this context based on 24 papers appearing in international peer-reviewed journals published from 2010 to 2023, and critically examines the impact of digital safety protocols on online student activities, the role of digital literacy in enhancing learning outcomes, and the intricate interplay between digital wellbeing and academic engagement, taking into account the changes created by the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings showed that the online engagement of students between Year 6 and Year 8 is deeply impacted by factors like digital literacy, digital communication/relationships, digital well-being, and digital habits; that COVID-19 put a spotlight on health; but that in general more research into digital safety needs to be conducted from a holistic and longitudinal viewpoint. Through careful analysis of the literature, this study provides insight into the challenges faced by 10 to 13 year olds, providing valuable directions for educators, policymakers, and researchers striving to create a safe, supportive, and empowering learning environment.
Physiochemical, Radiative Transitions and Thermoluminescence Characterizations of Nano Ce-doped Monoclinic Barium Titanate
Authors: Bassioni Ghada , El-Kinawy Mohamed , Mostafa Manar , El-Faramawy Nabil
Published: November 2024

This article reports the preparation, analytical, and thermoluminescence (TL) characterization of BaTi5O11 doped with different amounts of Ce. The Sol–gel technique was used to synthesize the doped nanocrystals. The prepared samples were examined by XRD, EDX, UV–Vis spectrophotometry, SEM, and TEM techniques to determine their analytical features. The samples with 0.7% Ce doping showed the best thermoluminescent behavior among the samples we made. The glow curves analysis showed that there were seven peaks that overlapped with each other. The thermal activation energy values of the carrier traps are 0.93, 1.08, 1.16, 1.23, 1.29, 1.35, and 1.38 eV. This study displayed that 0.7% Ce-doped BaTi5O11 can be used in monitoring high doses radiation applications.
Trace metal accumulation with age in bats: a case study on Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus from a relatively unpolluted area
Authors: Timofieieva Olha , Labecka Anna Maria , Vlaschenko Anton , Shulenko Alona , Laskowski Ryszard
Published: November 2024

Bats, as exceptionally long-lived small mammals, are at particular risk of metal poisoning due to the tendency of metals to bioaccumulate throughout their lives. In our study, we investigated the general question of how trace metal concentrations change with age in different bat tissues on the example of Pipistrellus kuhlii lepidus, which lives for years in one area and is strongly associated with urban environments. To determine the exact age of the individuals, osteochronology was applied, counting the number of dentine rings in cross-sections of the upper canine tooth of each individual. The age of 57 individuals of P. kuhlii lepidus, representing ca. 10% of the colony, was identified. Whole internal organs (liver, kidneys, lungs, and forearm bones) and samples of external tissues (fur and wing membrane) were analyzed for concentrations of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn using atomic absorption spectrometry. We found that concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Zn, but not Cu, increase with the age of the bats, but in relatively unpolluted areas, metal concentrations do not reach the level which can cause chronic adverse effects. Nevertheless, due to the confirmed accumulation of metals in bat tissues with age, toxic effects can be expected in older individuals in areas where trace metal concentrations are elevated.
Application of the pair-input deep learning model for seismicity reassessment in Cameroon
Authors: Carvalho Luis , Mohammadigheymasi Hamzeh , Crocker Paul , Tavakolizadeh Nasrin , Moradichaleshtori Yahya , Fernandes Rui
Published: November 2024

Applying advanced signal analysis and feature extraction methods to seismic datasets facilitates the extraction of key information from these valuable resources. In particular, advanced deep learning models can play a crucial role in this extraction process from seismic waveforms. This study aims to analyze the seismicity of the Cameroon area by deeply scanning an archived dataset from a temporary seismic network composed of 32 broadband sensors that operated in Cameroon from March 2005 to February 2007. We thoroughly scan the dataset to detect local earthquakes, calculate an updated crustal velocity model for the region by incorporating the acquired earthquake bulletin, and perform a joint inversion scheme. The DL-based workflow implemented in this study utilizes a pair-input deep learning model for scanning the seismic phases in the dataset, followed by a seismic phase picking process. Applying the Rapid Earthquake Association and Location method allows for the association of detected phases with local seismic events. By combining a set of 17,261 P-picked and 14,239 S-picked phases associated with 473 well-located earthquakes with magnitudes ranging from $$1.3 \le M_L \le 4.6$$

1.3
≤

M
L

≤
4.6

, we implement a joint inversion to estimate an updated 1D crustal velocity model and hypocentral parameters. The obtained model reveals layers with thicknesses of 82,034, and 54 km, extending to a depth of 80 km, with P-wave velocities ($$V_{{\text{p}}}$$

V
p

) of 6.1, 6.4, 6.6, 7.6, 8.25, and 8.5 km/s, and S-wave velocities ($$V_{{\text{s}}}$$

V
s

) of 3.57, 3.74, 3.86, 4.44, 4.82, and 5.0 km/s, respectively. The newly detected seismic events predominantly cluster in the Central Cameroon Shear Zone (CCSZ), the east flank of Mount Cameroon, the region between Mount Cameroon and Bioko Island, and the southern part of Bioko Island. The validity of this approach is further supported by a newly compiled catalog for this period, which is 1.35 times more extensive than the previously reported catalog for this dataset. Finally, the study presents a 3D time-lapse animation illustrating the sequence of detected earthquakes.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), Policy Conditionality and Human Rights, 2001–2021
Authors: Tarkpor Martin , Clarke Gerard
Published: November 2024

The World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) have been criticised for their weak commitment to human rights, with the World Bank subject to greater scrutiny and criticism than the IMF and despite significant progress since 2015 in linking its policies and operations to international human rights law. In this light, we explore the extent to which the IMF meets its responsibilities under international human rights law. We focus on IMF conditionality, on the conditions attached to IMF loans to countries in the global South. Using QDA Miner Lite, and a system of interpretive coding, we explore the extent to which international human rights standards are reflected in IMF loan conditions on the basis of inter-temporal and cross-country comparisons. We find that human rights are increasingly reflected in IMF conditionality, but also that it continues to undermine human rights, for instance, by unduly constraining the fiscal space available to sovereign governments. The IMF, we conclude, continues to compare unfavourably to other multilateral institutions, warranting enhanced scrutiny by organs of the UN Human Rights Council and by human rights NGOs.
Cooking pottery as indicator of resilience and change in Early Medieval Cyprus. An archaeometric approach
Authors: Vasileiou Theodoros K. , Vionis Athanasios K.
Published: November 2024

The early medieval times in Cyprus are signified, conventionally, by the Arab invasions of the mid-seventh century (649/650CE). Past research viewed those events as the catalyst which led to a transformation from a prosperous province to a marginal territory balancing between two antagonising empires. Recently, studies have shifted their focus on reassessing this period’s scant -yet present- material culture. In pottery studies, despite the advances in typological and distribution aspects, few have explored technological issues of early medieval ceramic production through instrumental analysis. This study focuses on the compositional and technological characterisation of cooking vessels through ceramic petrography (TL-OM), found in relevant contexts in Cyprus, representing both wheel-thrown and handmade traditions. Sherds coming from five major early-medieval sites of the island (sites of Kophinou, Kalavasos-Kopetra, Akrotiri, Yeroskipou-Ayioi Pente and Dhiorios), outlined a picture of two parallel trends transversing across sites, i.e., an inter-regional shared sense of shape uniformity smoothening the local variances and a strong regionalism in terms of raw material procurement. Wheel-thrown cookware -found in every site and strongly represented by the Dhiorios workshop- showed the survival of Late Antique shapes well into the Early Middle Ages, in fabrics related mainly to the broader area of Dhiorios. In addition, handmade vessels of a "shared repertoire" showed a variety of local clays for their manufacture. When integrated into their archaeological context in Cyprus, the results support the idea of a ceramic koine persisting through the beginning of the Byzantine Early Middle Ages on an intra and inter-regional level.
“What Can We Do?”: A Psychological Perspective on (Mal)Adaptive Coping Strategies and Barriers to Coping in an Area of Severe Climate Vulnerability in Bangladesh
Authors: Lilier Kyra , Mikulewicz Michael , Selim Samiya A. , Raihan Syed Tauheed , Islam Rafia , Das Jennifer , Danquah Ina , Bärnighausen Till , Sauerborn Rainer , Bärnighausen Kate
Published: November 2024

Background

As the mental well-being of billions of people is at risk due to the impacts of climate change, more research is required to better understand the psychological implications of climate vulnerability. This research aims to describe the coping strategies of a climate change affected population and the consequences of adaptation behavior.

Method

We conducted 60 qualitative in-depth interviews to elicit the lived experiences of climate-vulnerable men and women in Bhola, Bangladesh. Interviews were analyzed following the tenets of Grounded Theory.

Results

Identified coping strategies included “resignation” or “help-seeking” as well as barriers to coping, such as limited “efficacy,” limited “time,” or “stigma,” which constrained participants — especially women — in their coping behavior.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that certain barriers can lead people to pursue more easily accessible coping strategies, some of which can be interpreted as maladaptive. It is therefore recommended to lift barriers to coping through community-led interventions, such as platforms for sharing problems and knowledge regarding coping strategies.
Prevalence and clinical aspects of os trigonum: a meta-analysis
Authors: Preinl Maciej , Osiowski Aleksander , Stolarz Kacper , Osiowski Maksymilian , Taterra Dominik
Published: November 2024

Os trigonum (OT) is one of the most common accessory ossicles in the foot and ankle region. It is believed that OT was first described by Rosenmuller in 1804, but von Bardeleben is the one who coined the nomenclature for this anatomical variation in 1883. The literature indicates that OT is extremely variable in prevalence, with reported rates ranging from 1.7% to 32.5%. In clinical practice, OT is a considerable factor that may predispose patients to posterior ankle impingement syndrome (PAIS). The aim of this study was to provide comprehensive data on the prevalence and anatomical characteristics of OT. We conducted a comprehensive search of the main electronic databases to find the relevant research. Information concerning geographical origin, prevalence, gender distribution, imaging modality, and morphometry of OT was extracted. The PRISMA guidelines were strictly followed throughout the study. The reliability of the included studies was assessed using the AQUA tool. A total of 41 studies (n = 36,612 feet) were included in this meta-analysis. This meta-analysis showed that OT was present in 9.0% (95% CI: 7.4–10.8) of the feet, and was present bilaterally in 32.7% (95% CI: 23.3–43.7) of cases. Regarding the types of imaging modality used in the evaluation of OT by the included studies, prevalence assessed by X-rays was 8.2% (95% CI: 6.8–9.9), MRI was 24.2% (95% CI: 14.6–37.3), CT was 21.0% (95% CI: 12.8–32.5), and cadaveric dissection was 5.0% (95% CI: 3.4–7.4). OT was most commonly found in East Asia (11.0%, 95% CI: 7.1–16.8). Two studies provided enough data to calculate the odds ratio linking PAIS with OT. The analysis showed that patients with PAIS are almost 16 times more likely to have OT compared to those without PAIS (OR = 15.98, 95% CI = 0.255–1002.8). OT is a very common accessory ossicle and is present in nearly one in 10 feet. The highest prevalence is noted in the East Asian population. MRI and CT show the highest prevalence of OT. It is important to keep in mind the possible presence of OT when a patient is diagnosed with PAIS.
Effect of Melamine on the Oxygen Reduction Reaction in the n(111)-(111) Series of Pt3Co
Authors: Kamei Takuro , Nakamura Masashi , Hoshi Nagahiro
Published: November 2024

Enhancement of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity is an important subject for the development of fuel cells. In this study, we prepared the n(111)-(111) series of Pt3Co single crystal electrodes using an induction heating furnace and investigated the ORR in 0.1 M HClO4 using the rotation disk electrode (RDE). The specific activity of the ORR (j
k) increased monotonously with increasing terrace width n on the n(111)-(111) series of Pt3Co, showing the highest activity on Pt3Co(111). The value of j
k of Pt3Co(111) was 59-fold higher than that of Pt(111) at 0.95 V(RHE). This trend was different from those of the same series of Pt, Pt3Co, and Pt3Ni reported previously. Furthermore, the ORR activity was improved on all electrodes by adding melamine to the electrolytic solution. Melamine was preferentially adsorbed at the terrace edge. Pt3Co(553) n = 5 showed the highest activity. The values of j
k at 0.95 V(RHE) were 23- and 3.3-fold higher than those of Pt(553) n = 5 and Pt3Co(553) n = 5 without melamine modification, respectively. The durability of Pt3Co(553) n = 5 with melamine was improved 8.0-fold.

Graphical Abstract
Nanoparticles in the battle against Candida auris biofilms: current advances and future prospects
Authors: Fayed Bahgat
Published: November 2024

Candida auris has emerged as a significant global health threat due to its multidrug resistance and ability to form robust biofilms, particularly on medical devices and hospital surfaces. Biofilms protect C. auris from antifungal treatments and the host immune response, making infections persistent and difficult to control. This review explores the potential of nanoparticles to overcome the limitations of traditional antifungal therapies in combating C. auris biofilms. Nanoparticles, with their unique physicochemical properties, offer promising strategies to penetrate biofilm matrices, deliver antifungal agents, and disrupt biofilm structure. Various types of nanoparticles, including metallic, polymeric, lipid-based, and cyclodextrin-based, demonstrate enhanced biofilm penetration and antifungal activity. Their ability to generate reactive oxygen species, disrupt cell adhesion, and release antifungals in a controlled manner makes them ideal candidates for biofilm-targeted therapies. This review presents the current advancements in nanoparticle-based solutions, emphasizing the need for further research into their mechanisms of action, safety, and clinical application. By addressing the challenge of C. auris biofilms specifically, this review provides a critical synthesis of existing knowledge and identifies future directions for developing effective antifungal therapies using nanotechnology.

Graphical abstract
Progress in ab initio in-medium similarity renormalization group and coupled-channel method with coupling to the continuum
Authors: Xu Xin-Yu , Fan Si-Qin , Yuan Qi , Hu Bai-Shan , Li Jian-Guo , Wang Si-Min , Xu Fu-Rong
Published: November 2024

Over the last decade, nuclear theory has made dramatic progress in few-body and ab initio many-body calculations. These great advances stem from chiral effective field theory ($$\chi$$
χ
EFT), which provides an efficient expansion and consistent treatment of nuclear forces as inputs of modern many-body calculations, among which the in-medium similarity renormalization group (IMSRG) and its variants play a vital role. On the other hand, significant efforts have been made to provide a unified description of the structure, decay, and reactions of the nuclei as open quantum systems. While a fully comprehensive and microscopic model has yet to be realized, substantial progress over recent decades has enhanced our understanding of open quantum systems around the dripline, which are often characterized by exotic structures and decay modes. To study these interesting phenomena, Gamow coupled-channel (GCC) method, in which the open quantum nature of few-body valence nucleons coupled to a deformed core, has been developed. This review focuses on the developments of the advanced IMSRG and GCC and their applications to nuclear structure and reactions.
Widths of crossings in Poisson Boolean percolation
Authors: Manolescu Ioan , Santoro Leonardo V.
Published: November 2024

We answer the following question: if the occupied (or vacant) set of a planar Poisson Boolean percolation model contains a crossing of an

$n\times n$

square, how wide is this crossing? The answer depends on whether we consider the critical, sub-, or super-critical regime, and is different for the occupied and vacant sets.
Context and cross-section data improve analyses of wine ratings
Authors: Bodington Jeffrey
Published: November 2024

Much research shows that the ratings that critics, judges, and consumers assign to wines are heteroscedastic. A rating observed is one draw from a latent distribution that is wine- and judge-specific. Estimating the shape of a rating’s distribution by minimizing a sum of cross entropies has been proposed and tested. This article proposes a method of improving the accuracy of that estimate by using information about the context of a wine competition or cross-section ratings data. Tests using the distributions implied by 90 blind triplicate ratings show that the sum of squared errors for the solution using context or cross-section information is 50% more accurate than not using such information and over 99% more accurate than ignoring the uncertainty about a rating.
Effects of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation and gut microbiota: a systematic review of human and animal studies
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Sabina , Dziewiecka Hanna , Pasek Marta , Ostapiuk–Karolczuk Joanna , Kasperska Anna , Skarpańska-Stejnborn Anna
Published: November 2024

The scientific literature indicates that chokeberry is widely used as a supplement to support the maintenance of the body’s homeostasis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. In recent years, positive effects of chokeberry on intestinal parameters have also been observed. Oxidative stress, inflammation and, according to recent reports, also the gut microbiome are closely related to the overall well-being and health of the population. This study, therefore, attempts to summarise all the health benefits of black chokeberry supplementation. This study was registered in PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) under registration number CRD42023395969. Additionally, the systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method. Electronic databases were searched in Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and EBSCO using the following combination of the words ‘chokeberry or aronia’ and ‘inflammation or oxidative stress or microbiota or microbiome or permeability or gut’. Ultimately, fifty-seven studies were summarised in the review. Data analysis showed that black chokeberry has a positive effect on the reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress and intestinal microflora, but the size of the changes varies and depends on many variables. Therefore, the researchers concluded that the compounds found in black chokeberry play a pivotal role in maintaining the overall balance within the system. This is a crucial consideration given the tendency for disturbances in organismal homeostasis to accompany disease processes and various disorders. However, further research is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms and optimise its use fully.
Generalized Ricci flow on aligned homogeneous spaces
Authors: Gutiérrez Valeria
Published: November 2024

The fixed points of the generalized Ricci flow are the Bismut Ricci flat (BRF) metrics, i.e., a generalized metric (g, H) on a manifold M, where g is a Riemannian metric and H a closed 3-form, such that H is g-harmonic and $\operatorname{Rc}(g)=\tfrac{1}{4} H_g^2$. Given two standard Einstein homogeneous spaces $G_i/K$, where each Gi is a compact simple Lie group and K is a closed subgroup of them holding some extra assumption, we consider $M=G_1\times G_2/\Delta K$. Recently, Lauret and Will proved the existence of a BRF metric on any of these spaces. We proved that this metric is always asymptotically stable for the generalized Ricci flow on M among a subset of G-invariant metrics and, if $G_1=G_2$, then it is globally stable.
Cesàro-type operators on Bergman–Morrey spaces and Dirichlet–Morrey spaces
Authors: Xie Huayou , Lin Qingze , Liu Junming
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we will show the Carleson measure characterizations for the boundedness and compactness of the Cesàro-type operator
\begin{equation*}\mathcal{C}_{\mu}(f)(z)=\sum^{\infty}_{n=0}\left( \int_{[0,1)}t^nd\mu(t)\right) \left(\sum^{n}_{k=0}a_k \right)z^n, \quad z\in \mathbb{D},\end{equation*}

acting on a number of important analytic function spaces on $\mathbb{D}$, where µ is a positive finite Borel measure. The function spaces are some newly appeared analytic function spaces (e.g., Bergman–Morrey spaces $A^{p,\lambda}$ and Dirichlet–Morrey spaces $\mathcal{D}_p^{\lambda}$) . This work continues the lines of the previous characterizations by Blasco and Galanopoulos et al. for classical Hardy spaces and weighted Bergman spaces and so forth.
Association between atherogenic index of plasma and peripheral	arterial disease
Authors: Hong Huiqi , Wu Lei , Chen Shaofang
Published: November 2024

Summary: Background: Growing body of evidence suggests that the atherogenic dyslipidemia phenotype is a precursor to Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). Nonetheless, there is limited research regarding the association between Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) and PAD which utilized a community population-based database in the United States. We sought to fill this knowledge gap. Methods: A total of 3,517 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2004 cycles were enrolled in our study. AIP was calculated as log10 (triglycerides/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). Logistic regression models were adopted to reveal the relationship of AIP and PAD. Additionally, stratified and interaction analyses were also undertaken to see if the relationship was stable in different subgroups. Results: Participants in the higher tertile of AIP tended to have higher prevalence of PAD. A positive correlation was identified between AIP increase and PAD after fully multivariate adjustment (OR=1.30, 95% CI: 1.06–1.59). The multivariable-adjusted OR and 95% CI of the highest AIP tertile compared with the lowest tertile was 1.50 (1.07–2.1). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that the positive association between AIP and PAD was persistent across population subgroups. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate a positive association between AIP and the incidence of PAD among adults in American adults. Specifically, 1 unit increase in AIP led to a 30% greater risk of PAD.
Prophylactic low-dose hydrocortisone in neonates born extremely preterm: current knowledge and future challenges
Authors: Baud Olivier , Torchin Héloïse , Butin Marine , Flamant Cyril , Nuytten Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Prophylactic administration of low-dose hydrocortisone, at replacement dosage, targets inability of extremely low gestational age neonates (ELGANs) to respond to postnatal stress due to adrenal glands immaturity and is intended to prevent serious complications such as death and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Increasing evidence from systematic reviews shows that prophylactic hydrocortisone reduces pre-discharge mortality, improves survival without BPD, favors patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure, and may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular stability and urine output. In contrast, an increased risk of spontaneous intestinal perforation when prophylactic hydrocortisone is combined with indomethacin and late-onset sepsis, particularly in infants of 24–25 weeks of gestation, have been reported as major adverse events. No significant negative impact on long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes following prophylactic hydrocortisone exposure was observed. Recent real-world data, despite their intrinsic methodological limitations, generally confirm the benefits observed in clinical trials, even with additional potential benefits and without increased adverse events. Ongoing challenges and questions discussed in this invited review relate to the best population to treat, optimal timing and duration of treatment, and potential barriers to implementation due to evolving knowledge and guidelines.

Impact statement

Prophylactic low-dose hydrocortisone improves survival without BPD in infants born extremely preterm.

Recent real-world data generally confirm the benefits observed in clinical trials, even with additional potential benefits and without increased adverse events.

Unanswered questions remain about optimal timing and duration of treatment, and potential barriers to implementation due to evolving knowledge and guidelines.
Molecular diagnoses and candidate gene identification in the congenital heart disease cohorts of the 100,000 genomes project
Authors: Hartill Verity , Kabir Mitra , Best Sunayna , Shaikh Qureshi Wasay Mohiuddin , Baross Stephanie L. , Lord Jenny , Yu Jing , Sasaki Erina , Needham Hazel , Shears Deborah , Roche Matthew , Wall Elizabeth , Cooper Nicola , Ryan Gavin , Eason Jacqueline , Johnson Robert , Keavney Bernard , Hentges Kathryn E. , Johnson Colin A.
Published: November 2024

Congenital heart disease (CHD) describes a structural cardiac defect present from birth. A cohort of participants recruited to the 100,000 Genomes Project (100 kGP) with syndromic CHD (286 probands) and familial CHD (262 probands) were identified. “Tiering” following genome sequencing data analysis prioritised variants in gene panels linked to participant phenotype. To improve diagnostic rates in the CHD cohorts, we implemented an agnostic de novo Gene Discovery Pipeline (GDP). We assessed de novo variants (DNV) for unsolved CHD participants following filtering to select variants of interest in OMIM-morbid genes, as well as novel candidate genes. The 100kGP CHD cohorts had low rates of pathogenic diagnoses reported (combined CHD “solved” 5.11% (n = 28/548)). Our GDP provided diagnostic uplift of nearly one third (1.28% uplift; 5.11% vs. 6.39%), with a new or potential diagnosis for 9 additional participants with CHD. When a filtered DNV occurred within a non-morbid gene, our GDP prioritised biologically-plausible candidate CHD genes (n = 79). Candidate variants occurred in both genes linked to cardiac development (e.g. AKAP13 and BCAR1) and those currently without a known role (e.g. TFAP2C and SETDB1). Sanger sequencing of a cohort of patients with CHD did not identify a second de novo variant in the candidate dataset. However, literature review identified rare variants in HMCN1, previously reported as causative for pulmonary atresia, confirming the approach utility. As well as diagnostic uplift for unsolved participants of the 100 kGP, our GDP created a dataset of candidate CHD genes, which forms an important resource for further evaluation.
What does a consent conversation for whole genome sequencing look like in the NHS Genomic Medicine Service? An observational study
Authors: Ellard Holly , Alfardus Huda , Sanderson Saskia , Lewis Celine
Published: November 2024

Patient choice consent for whole genome sequencing (WGS) through the Genomic Medicine Service in England covers consent to diagnostic testing and an invitation to the National Genomic Research Library (NGRL). Little is known about what consent conversations for WGS look like in practice. We audio-recorded and analysed the content and structure of consent appointments (n = 26) between healthcare professionals (HCPs) and parents of children with rare disease across seven NHS Trusts. Appointments frequently covered the potential findings from testing, implications for family members, and DNA storage, but often omitted that data may be reanalysed in the future if a diagnosis is not made. Consent to the NGRL was typically sought during the same appointment; these discussions varied in content, but frequently included a background to the NGRL and data security. HCPs often tempered expectations around what WGS can achieve and asked questions to clarify parents’ understanding, but less commonly elicited parents’ values and concerns. Administrative tasks were time-consuming, but took less time when consent was recorded digitally. Future training should emphasise how to elicit patients’ values and concerns. Digital infrastructure and hiring roles such as genomic associates to support consent may be important strategies to meet the workload demands of WGS.
The use of artificial intelligence based chat bots in ophthalmology triage
Authors: David Daniel , Zloto Ofira , Katz Gabriel , Huna-Baron Ruth , Vishnevskia-Dai Vicktoria , Armarnik Sharon , Zauberman Noa Avni , Barnir Elinor Megiddo , Singer Reut , Hostovsky Avner , Klang Eyal
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To evaluate AI-based chat bots ability to accurately answer common patient’s questions in the field of ophthalmology.

Methods

An experienced ophthalmologist curated a set of 20 representative questions and responses were sought from two AI generative models: OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Bard (Gemini Pro). Eight expert ophthalmologists from different sub-specialties assessed each response, blinded to the source, and ranked them by three metrics—accuracy, comprehensiveness, and clarity, on a 1–5 scale.

Results

For accuracy, ChatGPT scored a median of 4.0, whereas Bard scored a median of 3.0. In terms of comprehensiveness, ChatGPT achieved a median score of 4.5, compared to Bard which scored a median of 3.0. Regarding clarity, ChatGPT maintained a higher score with a median of 5.0, compared to Bard’s median score of 4.0. All comparisons were statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

AI-based chat bots can provide relatively accurate and clear responses for addressing common ophthalmological inquiries. ChatGPT surpassed Bard in all measured metrics. While these AI models exhibit promise, further research is indicated to improve their performance and allow them to be used as a reliable medical tool.
Development of a fish oil–nanoemulsion gel as a drug-delivery system to prevent capsular contracture
Authors: Paul Mohuya , Kang Sang Gue , Im Jungkyun , Song Woo Jin
Published: November 2024

Capsular contracture, a significant complication of breast-implant surgery, causes pain and deformation following the formation of a tight capsule around an implant. Current surgical and non-surgical treatment options are invasive, expensive, and typically administered for prolonged periods, potentially leading to side effects. To address these challenges, we developed a novel fish oil-encapsulated, poloxamer-based nanoemulsion gel with omega-3 (ω3) as the primary active component (NE-ω3 gel; N3G). This formulation can be injected during surgery, reducing the need for prolonged administration of medications and minimizing associated side effects. N3G was prepared through a two-step process involving the emulsification of fish oil followed by gelation with poloxamer to create a thermoreversible gel. Dynamic light-scattering analysis confirmed a uniform distribution of nanoemulsion particles, which had a mean diameter of 287 ± 8.599 nm and a PDI of 0.29 ± 0.047. FTIR and DSC analyses validated the encapsulation of fish oil within poloxamer micelles. Drug-release analysis demonstrated that more than 96% of fish oil was released within 10 h. In in vivo experiments, rats (n = 30) were divided into three groups: a negative control group (G1), a positive control group receiving fish oil (G2), and an experimental group with implants coated with N3G (G3). G3 exhibited a 21.2% reduction in capsular thickness compared to G1 and a 5.6% reduction compared to G2. In addition, significant decreases in fibrosis and myofibroblast counts were observed in G3. These results, supported by histological and gene expression analyses, highlight the effectiveness of N3G in reducing inflammation and fibrosis. This study underscores the therapeutic potential of N3G for capsular contracture, based on its persistence, thermoreversibility, and improved dosing and storage characteristics.
Understanding the biological processes of kidney carcinogenesis: an integrative multi-omics approach
Authors: Cortez Cardoso Penha Ricardo , Sexton Oates Alexandra , Senkin Sergey , Park Hanla A , Atkins Joshua , Holcatova Ivana , Hornakova Anna , Savic Slavisa , Ognjanovic Simona , Świątkowska Beata , Lissowska Jolanta , Zaridze David , Mukeria Anush , Janout Vladimir , Chabrier Amelie , Cahais Vincent , Cuenin Cyrille , Scelo Ghislaine , Foll Matthieu , Herceg Zdenko , Brennan Paul , Smith-Byrne Karl , Alcala Nicolas , Mckay James D
Published: November 2024

Biological mechanisms related to cancer development can leave distinct molecular fingerprints in tumours. By leveraging multi-omics and epidemiological information, we can unveil relationships between carcinogenesis processes that would otherwise remain hidden. Our integrative analysis of DNA methylome, transcriptome, and somatic mutation profiles of kidney tumours linked ageing, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and xenobiotic metabolism to kidney carcinogenesis. Ageing process was represented by associations with cellular mitotic clocks such as epiTOC2, SBS1, telomere length, and PBRM1 and SETD2 mutations, which ticked faster as tumours progressed. We identified a relationship between BAP1 driver mutations and the epigenetic upregulation of EMT genes (IL20RB and WT1), correlating with increased tumour immune infiltration, advanced stage, and poorer patient survival. We also observed an interaction between epigenetic silencing of the xenobiotic metabolism gene GSTP1 and tobacco use, suggesting a link to genotoxic effects and impaired xenobiotic metabolism. Our pan-cancer analysis showed these relationships in other tumour types. Our study enhances the understanding of kidney carcinogenesis and its relation to risk factors and progression, with implications for other tumour types.
Detection of triazine herbicides in water, juice, and tea using deep eutectic solvent-based emulsive liquid–liquid microextraction combined with high-performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Wang Yulin , Wang Yuxin , Chen Yarong , Zheng Xiaojiao , Han Jiajun , Jing Xu , Yang Jiali
Published: November 2024

Detection of triazine herbicides in water, juice, and tea using deep eutectic solvent-based emulsive liquid–liquid microextraction combined with high-performance liquid chromatography is simple, fast, and green.
Formation of jellyfish-like Ag(0)x–Mn3O4 microglobules at the surface of Ag(i) and Mn(ii) nitrate solution with NH3 vapor
Authors: Gulina Larisa B. , Nikiforov Kirill A. , Korotcenkov Ghenadii , Tolstoy Valeri P.
Published: November 2024

Jellyfish-like Ag(0)x–Mn3O4 composite nanostructures are formed at the interface due to the action of ammonia vapor on the aqueous Mn(NO3)2/AgNO3 solution surface.
Electron–phonon coupling and thermal transport properties of GaN/AlGaN heterojunction under strain regulation
Authors: Chen Jiao , Shan Zumeng , Hu Baoyi , Wang Zhaoliang , Tang Dawei , Xu Ke
Published: November 2024

In the study of GaN/AlGaN heterostructure thermal transport, the interference of strain on carriers cannot be ignored.
Molecular polarity regulation of polybromide complexes for high-performance low-temperature zinc–bromine flow batteries
Authors: Zhao Ming , Cheng Tao , Li Tianyu , Wang Shuo , Yin Yanbin , Li Xianfeng
Published: November 2024

Polybromide molecular polarity regulation ensures the optimal performance of zinc–bromine flow batteries at room temperature and −20 °C.
Biotic and Abiotic factors controlling isoprene, DMS, and oxygenated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at the Southern Sea in the Austral Fall.
Authors: Kim Saewung , Seco Roger , Jeong Daun , Guenther Alex B. , Kim Kitae , Choi Jung-Ok , Mo Ahra , Park Jinsoo , Park Keyhong
Published: November 2024

We present shipborne observations of volatile organic compounds such as dimethylsulfide (DMS), isoprene, acetaldehyde, acetone, and methanol over the Southern Ocean in April and May 2018. During the cruise, we...
Discerning order from chaos: characterising the surface structure of liquid gallium
Authors: Steenbergen Krista G. , Lambie Stephanie , Gaston Nicola
Published: November 2024

Geometric ordering parallel to the liquid gallium surface is proven and quantified. This structuring goes beyond an increase in density alone and may underpin the diverse structural features observed in doped liquid gallium systems.
Electrically and magnetically readable memory with a graphene/1T-CrTe2 heterostructure: anomalous Hall transistor
Authors: Menon Surabhi , Waghmare Umesh V.
Published: November 2024

The graphene/1T-CrTe2 heterostructure shows electron transfer, exchange, and crystal field effects that shift and split graphene Dirac points, enabling an anomalous Hall transistor, spin-charge storage via spin-polarized anomalous Hall conductivity.
Recent advances in flexible multifunctional electrochromic devices
Authors: Yu Jiamin , Wang Shanjie , Gao Lin , Qiao Guoqi , Lin Meng-Fang , Wei Cong , Chen Jingwei , Li Shaohui
Published: November 2024

This review comprehensively summarizes the recent development of flexible multifunctional electrochromic devices, including energy harvesting, energy storage, multicolor displays, and smart windows.
Total syntheses of Kavaratamide A and 5-epi-Kavaratamide A
Authors: Ren Tieshun , Lv Ke , Hu Fangzhong , Chen Yue
Published: November 2024

The total syntheses of Kavaratamide A, a new linear lipodepsipeptide from cyanobacterium Moorena bouillonii, and its isomer 5-epi-Kavaratamide A were achieved. Cytotoxicity test suggested that they have a moderate bioactivity against cancer cells.
Synthesis, optical properties, and two-photon bioimaging evaluation of novel fluorescent cationic molecules with symmetrical long conjugated all-trans structures
Authors: Huang Qiong , Cai Zhi-Bin , Li Sheng-Li , Chen Li-Jun , Ye Qing , Tian Yu-Peng
Published: November 2024

Five novel fluorescent cationic molecules were synthesized and characterized. Their optical properties were investigated and the potential for imaging applications were evaluated. PPy have a promising application potential in bioimaging.
Carbamoylation of azaarenes and olefins with formamides through dual photoredox/HAT catalysis
Authors: Martos Mario , Quevedo-Flores Beatriz , Laze Loris , Bosque Irene , Gonzalez-Gomez Jose C.
Published: November 2024

A unique strategy for the photoinduced Minisci and Giese carbamoylation with readily available formamides is described.
Crowding effects on the structure and rheology of ultrasoft PNIPAM–PEGMA copolymer microgels
Authors: Bassu Gavino , Vialetto Jacopo , Ruiz-Franco José , Scotti Andrea , Houston Judith E. , Mata Jitendra , Zaccarelli Emanuela , Laurati Marco
Published: November 2024

The internal structure of PNIPAM–PEGMA copolymer microgels is linked to the single particle bulk modulus and the inter-particle interactions, determining the structural organization and rheology in dense states.
Heat charging towards electrical energy saving and high-efficiency Zn-ion batteries
Authors: Sun Xiaoling , Li Yitong , Zeng Dewen , Zeng Zhiwei , Gong Chen , Wu Changyi , Chen Hongyi
Published: November 2024

We proposed a high-efficiency Zn-ion battery by heat charging. A record absolute high temperature coefficient of 3.157 mV K−1 was achieved. When the battery is charged at 45 °C and discharged at 5 °C, a high energy efficiency of 105.16% is realized.
Pr6O11 cluster-anchored CoFe-LDH on vertical graphene nanosheets as an oxygen evolution electrocatalyst for long-term high-current-density seawater electrolysis
Authors: Wu Quan , Dong Xiaoyu , Ouyang Kefeng , Liu Youfa , Lei Hao , Yu Jie , Huang Yan
Published: November 2024

Our synthesized seawater OER electrocatalyst GP/VGSs-CoFe LDH-Pr6O11 shows excellent catalytic activity and stability (with the aid of K2SO4) in overall alkaline seawater electrolysis, combining a previously reported HER electrocatalyst NiMoN.
Emissive triphenylamine functionalised 1,8-naphthalimide and naphthalene diimide fluorophores: aggregation, computation and biological studies
Authors: Ramírez Lázaro Laura , Sigurvinsson L. Constance , Curtin Niamh , Ho Joanna , Luis Ena T. , McAdams Deirdre A. , Gudmundsson Tómas A. , Hawes Chris S. , Jacquemin Denis , O’Shea Donal F. , Scanlan Eoin M. , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur , Henwood Adam F.
Published: November 2024

A structure-property study demonstrates switching from ACQ to AIE in a family of luminescent naphthalimides.
Jahn–Teller distortion induced two-dimensional ferroelasticity in Mn2CuO6 monolayers with antiferromagnetic ordering
Authors: Ding Xinkai , Gou Gaoyang
Published: November 2024

The rich interplay among the electron spin, orbital ordering and lattice deformation in Mn2CuO6 monolayers will lead to stable 2D ferroelasticity and magnetic orderings.