bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The efficacy of remote ischemic conditioning for outcomes in ischemic stroke patients with or without prior stroke: A post hoc analysis of the RICAMIS trial
Authors: Liu Liang , Sun Xiao‐Yu , Cui Chang , Liu Miao , Cui Yu , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: January 2025

Background and Purpose

To investigate the impact of a history of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) on the effectiveness of remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) for outcomes in acute ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

We conducted a post hoc analysis of the Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Acute Moderate Ischaemic Stroke (RICAMIS) trial. Patients in RICAMIS were categorized into two groups according to a history of stroke. The primary outcome was an excellent functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0–1 at 90 days. Instead of comparing patients receiving usual care alone, we investigated the association of the RIC effect with functional outcomes in each group and the interaction between the RIC effect and a history of ischemic stroke or TIA.

Results

We included a total of 1695 patients, of whom 562 patients had a history of ischemic stroke or TIA and 1133 patients without prior ischemic stroke or TIA. In the Never Stroke or TIA group, a higher proportion of excellent functional outcomes was found in the RIC subgroup compared to the control subgroup (adjusted OR = 1.557 [95% CI 1.187–2.043], p = 0.001) but not in Prior Stroke or TIA group (adjusted OR = 1.299 [95% CI 0.893–1.888], p = 0.171). However, no significant interaction between the RIC effect and a history of ischemic stroke or TIA was found among the groups.

Conclusion

This is the first report suggesting that the RIC effect may be influenced by the history of ischemic stroke or TIA for patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Distribution of race and training‐related musculoskeletal injuries by track and location in Thoroughbred and Arabian racehorses
Authors: Yildirim İsmail Gökçe , Karaarslan Solmaz , Erkan Atacan
Published: January 2025

Background

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSI) are a major concern in the horse racing industry, often leading to career‐ending outcomes. Contributing factors include conformation, limb and joint defects, hoof structure, age, and hard track surfaces.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the distribution of MSI in Thoroughbred and Arabian racehorses during racing and training, categorised by breed and track surface.

Study design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The data from 2018 to 2023 were collected at the Turkish Jockey Club's Şirinyer Hippodrome (38°23′03.7″ N 27°09′01.0″ E), covering 553 MSI cases. The distribution of MSI, categorised by track surface and race/training, was evaluated using a 2 × 3 Pearson chi‐square analysis and a post hoc Z‐test. MSI occurrences during racing and training were examined based on breed and track surface by gender, age, category, location, and impact on the horses' racing career, was calculated using descriptive statistical indicators such as frequency and percentage.

Results

The majority of MSI occurred between June and September, the summer and dry period in the northern hemisphere. The 553 MSI cases included 45.3% fractures, 40.3% tendon injuries, 9.8% bone fissure. Distribution of MSI occurring during races and training according to track surface in Thoroughbred and Arabian horses had significant differences (p < 0.0001). Among Thoroughbreds, injuries were most common at 2‐ and 3‐year‐old, while in Arabians, they were most frequent at 3‐ and 4‐year‐old. The highest prevalence of MSI occurred in the forelimbs during racing, affecting 91.3% of Thoroughbreds and 92.7% of Arabians, with a particular focus on the carpal joint and its distal structures. MSI ended the racing careers of 66.3% of Thoroughbreds and 46.4% of Arabians.

Main limitations

This study relied on routinely recorded hospital data.

Conclusions

Fractures predominated in Thoroughbreds, particularly on dirt tracks, while tendon injuries were common in Arabians across both surfaces. Findings indicate the need to improve track maintenance and training practices to support racehorse welfare and longevity.
The forgotten casualties of war: Preserving culture, identity, and the rights of the family after conflict
Authors: Puccia Kraig
Published: January 2025

Families are ultimately the first and last victims of war. They are the first to be destroyed, and in the aftermath, the last to be repaired. Finding justice for families affected by war is complex, and difficulties arise jurisdictionally, in enforcement, and in how to reliably fund recovery projects. This Note analyzes the ongoing War in Ukraine and the atrocities that have been committed against Ukrainian families, focusing primarily on the child victims of cultural genocide, and proposes a system of funding for the rehabilitation of Ukraine's children and the preservation of their familial and cultural identity.
Rational design facilitates the improvement of glucose tolerance and catalytic properties of a β‐glucosidase from Acetivibrio thermocellus
Authors: Kamale Chinmay , Rauniyar Abhishek , Bhaumik Prasenjit
Published: January 2025

Cellulases are an ensemble of enzymes that hydrolyze cellulose chains into fermentable glucose and hence are widely used in bioethanol production. The last enzyme of the cellulose degradation pathway, β‐glucosidase, is inhibited by its product, glucose. The product inhibition by glucose hinders cellulose hydrolysis limiting the saccharification during bioethanol production. Thus, engineered β‐glucosidases with enhanced glucose tolerance and catalytic efficiency are essential. This study focuses on the rational engineering of β‐glucosidase from Acetivibrio thermocellus (WT‐AtGH1). Recombinant WT‐AtGH1 exhibited activity on cellobiose and p‐nitrophenyl‐β‐d‐glucoside as substrates and retained around 80% of its activity over 48 h at 55 °C, pH 5.5. However, WT‐AtGH1 showed low glucose tolerance of 380 mm as compared to the required IC50 value of > 800 mm for industrial use. Thus, a rational design approach was utilized to enhance the glucose tolerance of this enzyme. We determined the 3 Å resolution crystal structure of WT‐AtGH1. The structure‐based engineered G168W‐AtGH1 and S242W‐AtGH1 mutants exhibited improved glucose tolerance of 840 and 612 mm, respectively. Surprisingly, S242L‐AtGH1 mutant showed ~ 2.5‐fold increase in the catalytic efficiency as compared to WT‐AtGH1. A combinatorial effect of improved glucose tolerance, as well as enhanced catalytic efficiency, was observed for the G168W‐S242L‐AtGH1 mutant. All the mutants with enhanced properties showed considerable stability at industrial operating conditions of 55 °C and pH 5.5. Thus, we present mutants of WT‐AtGH1 with improved glucose tolerance and kinetic properties that have the potential to increase the efficiency of saccharification during biofuel production.
EGCop: An Expert‐Curated Occurrence Dataset of European Groundwater‐Dwelling Copepods (Crustacea: Copepoda)
Authors: Cerasoli Francesco , Fiasca Barbara , Di Cicco Mattia , Galmarini Emma , Vaccarelli Ilaria , Mammola Stefano , Malard Florian , Stoch Fabio , Galassi Diana M. P.
Published: January 2025

Motivation

Subterranean biodiversity is increasingly threatened by multiple intertwined anthropogenic impacts, including habitat loss, pollution, overexploitation of resources, biological invasions and climate change. Worryingly, subterranean biodiversity is still poorly represented in conservation agendas, also due to persisting gaps in our knowledge of the organisms thriving in the often‐secluded and difficult‐to‐access subterranean ecosystems. This is even more apparent for small‐sized (body size < 1 mm) groundwater‐dwelling metazoans, among which copepods (Crustacea: Copepoda) represent the dominant group in terms of both species richness and biomass.

We present a dataset including 6986 occurrence records of 588 species/subspecies of European obligate groundwater‐dwelling copepods. We curated all records to make their taxonomy consistent with the current systematics of Copepoda, while assessing uncertainty in the geographic coordinates by coupling in‐depth web and literature searches with GIS analyses. We suggest the data provided can be used to explore a range of eco‐evolutionary questions—from the drivers of the distribution of groundwater fauna to the assembly of groundwater communities—as well as to prompt the conservation of groundwater biodiversity and more.

Main Types of Variables Contained

Occurrence records of groundwater‐dwelling copepods, with details about specimen taxonomy, source of the record, occurrence locality and habitat type.

Spatial Location and Grain

Geographical Europe (including western Russian Federation), along with Turkey and Georgia. Occurrence records were assigned projected geographic coordinates (EPSG:3035) at 100 m resolution but with varying spatial uncertainty.

Time Period and Grain

1907–2017.

Major Taxa and Level of Measurement

Crustacea: Copepoda. Most records have species‐level identification, while some of them are identified at the subspecies level.

Software Format

Comma‐separated values file (.csv) and Excel file (.xlsx), with UTF‐8 encoding and meta‐data provided following the Darwin Core standard.
Rising Atmospheric CO2 Alleviates Drought Impact on Autumn Leaf Senescence Over Northern Mid‐High Latitudes
Authors: Li Peng , Sun Mai , Xiao Jingfeng , Luo Yunpeng , Zhang Yao , Li Xing , Zhou Xiaolu , Peng Changhui
Published: January 2025

Aim

Drought reduces plant growth and hastens the process of leaf senescence in autumn. Concurrently, increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations likely amplifies photosynthetic activity while increasing plant water‐use efficiency. However, how drought affects the date of leaf senescence (DLS) and whether elevated CO2 can alleviate this remain unknown. Here, we explore the effect of drought on DLS under recent climate change and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Location

Northern mid‐high latitudes.

Time Period

2000–2019.

Major Taxa Studied

Plants.

Methods

We conducted comprehensive analyses based on satellite remote sensing, eddy covariance flux observations, in situ phenology observations and land‐surface models. Linear regression analysis and a ten‐year moving window were adapted to investigate the spatiotemporal patterns in DLS sensitivity to drought (Sdd). The partial least squares regression method was used to attribute the main factors for the variation in Sdd, and land‐surface models in different scenarios were used to verify the robustness of the results.

Results

Our study presented divergent spatial patterns of Sdd, where the highest Sdd was concentrated in dry and warm regions. Temporally, multiple datasets consistently illustrate a significant decrease in the Sdd during recent decades (p < 0.05). We also observed a nonlinear relationship between the trend of Sdd and aridity gradient, which presented a slightly positive Sdd trend in dry regions but a negative trend in wet regions. We found these observed changes were primarily attributed to elevated CO2, alleviating the drought stress on DLS in nearly 40% of the study area.

Main Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the complex role that atmospheric CO2 plays in regulating plant leaf senescence during drought stress, highlighting the need to incorporate the effects of elevated CO2 on vegetation autumn phenology into land‐surface models for projecting vegetation growth and carbon uptake under continued global change.
Gendering “The Hidden Injuries of Class”: In‐Work Poverty, Precarity, and Working Women Using Food Banks in Britain
Authors: Spellman Cat , McBride Jo
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the lived experience of white working‐class women in the UK experiencing in‐work poverty and dependent on food banks to survive. Although the precarious labor market emerges as a significant driver in the women's need for food charity, in‐depth investigations into the lives that precarity produces and reinforces remain scarce. Contributing to this gap, our paper uses an ethnographic qualitative approach drawing on feminist research methods to identify women's experiences of in‐work poverty and being in precarious work. Across 2 food banks, 10 women and 6 volunteers were interviewed, complemented by 24 months of comprehensive field notes where the lead author was a regular volunteer with the charities. The paper revisits “The Hidden Injuries of Class” from Sennett and Cobb's (1972) classic study to use as a theoretical lens to draw out the internalized impacts that the participants experienced. We complement the theoretical framing with an intersectional sensitivity, finding that both gender and class were prevailing identities that influenced the women's lived experiences of the explored themes. The combination of these frameworks helped us to discover how the women face a complex internalized struggle in accessing food banks whilst being employed, heavily characterized by classed and gendered constraints associated with precarious work and other external structural disadvantages. The women experienced guilt, shame, the suppression of emotion, and a struggle for self‐validation. Interactions at the food bank were additionally found to be intersubjectively negotiated between the women and the present volunteers. The intersection of both classed and gendered identities exposes these women to ever greater inequalities both within and beyond the workplace.
Associations between parent and adolescent weight outcomes within two parent approaches to family‐based adolescent obesity treatment: Secondary analyses from the TEENS+ pilot trial
Authors: Tatum Kristina L. , Garr Katlyn , Adams Elizabeth L. , Caccavale Laura J. , Wickham Edmond P. , LaRose Jessica Gokee , Mazzeo Suzanne E. , Raynor Hollie A. , Bean Melanie K.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To examine associations between parent and adolescent weight change within two parent approaches to adolescent obesity treatment.

Methods

Adolescent (Mage = 13.7 ± 1.2 years; MBMI = 34.9 ± 7.0 kg/m2) and parent (MBMI = 36.4 ± 7.3 kg/m2) dyads (N = 82) were randomized to TEENS+Parents as Coaches (PAC) or TEENS+parent weight loss (PWL). Anthropometrics were assessed at baseline (0‐month), 4 months (post) and 7 months (after 3‐month maintenance period). Regression analyses examined associations between parent and adolescent ΔBMI0‐4m and ΔBMI4‐7m, with parent group as a moderator.

Results

Post‐treatment, parent and adolescent ∆BMI0‐4m were positively related (β = 0.68, p < 0.001), with no group interaction. Parent and adolescent ΔBMI4‐7m were related (β = 0.48, p = 0.012) during maintenance, moderated by parent group (β = −0.49, p = 0.010): positive relationships persisted in PAC (β = 0.39, p = 0.011), but not PWL (β = −0.19, p = 0.211).

Discussion

Parent and adolescent weight changes were positively related during treatment in both parent groups. During maintenance, weight change associations persisted only in PAC. These patterns prompt further exploration of parent factors driving weight change relationships.
Effect of He ions irradiation on the leaching behavior of borosilicate glasses
Authors: Sun Yuqian , Chen Xiaofen , Chen Ning , Zhang Buyun , Jin Zhaoxuan , Liang Yuzhu , Pan Yuhe , Bai Kai , Wang Tieshan , Peng Haibo
Published: January 2025

Borosilicate glass has been employed for immobilization of high‐level radioactive waste (HLW). During long‐term geological disposal, the irradiation damage from radionuclides and the potential risk of groundwater corrosion may compromise the integrity of HLW containment. In this work, Na‐borosilicate and Zr‐Na borosilicate glasses were irradiated with 2 MeV He ions. The leaching behaviors of both glass types were investigated using the MCC‐1 method at 90°C. Different techniques, including Raman spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy, and Time‐of‐Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry, were employed to analyze the leached samples and the leachate. The results indicated that He ion radiation could accelerate the leaching process of borosilicate glasses. The leaching rate of He irradiated borosilicate glass was between that of the pristine and Xe irradiated borosilicate glasses. This finding enhances our understanding of the discrepancies in leaching behavior associated with alpha particles and recoil nuclides during alpha decay.
Clinical Profile and Management of Wolf‐Parkinson White Syndrome and Asymptomatic Pre‐Excitation Carriers in Africa: A Multicenter Pan African Registry From 17 Countries
Authors: Allam Lamyaa , Bekouti Jean Timnou , Gabra Mohamed Diaa , Shogade Tolulope Taiwo , El‐Hariri Hazem Mohamed , Seddik Ait Messaoudene Mohamed , Kahled Bouasria , Vezi Brian , Jabeur Mariem , Soulemane Pessinaba , Sonou Arnaud , Alison Michael Rory , Houchinne Lemoné , Adjougoulta Koboy Allah‐Amine , Roberto José , Stephane Kouame Koffi , Diakité Adama , Stéphane Ikama Méo , Jeewoth Avinash , Gandye Yona , Bonny Aimé
Published: January 2025

Background and Aim

Data are scarce regarding Wolf‐Parkinson White Syndrome (WPW) syndrome and asymptomatic pre‐excitation in Africa. This study tried to understand the current approaches utilized in Africa for the diagnosis and management of both symptomatic and asymptomatic ventricular pre‐excitation.

Methods

The current prospective study was conducted in 20 centers located in 17 countries spanning all areas of Africa. Participants included had ventricular pre‐excitation patterns. The data collected included symptoms, locations of accessory pathways (AP) and tachyarrhythmia, risk stratification, as well as acute and long‐term management. In addition, we assessed the clinical effectiveness of the centers and the impact of socioeconomic and health metrics on these treatment approaches.

Results

Among 541 participants, 93% were diagnosed with WPW syndrome, with orthodromic atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT) being the most prevalent arrhythmia, affecting 55% of the cases. Approximately 30% of patients in Africa, except for the southern region, received intravenous amiodarone as the first‐choice drug for orthodromic AVRT while adenosine was the drug of choice in the Southern region. Electrical cardioversion was the first‐line treatment for pre‐excited atrial fibrillation and antidromic AVRT across all of Africa. Radiofrequency ablation (RF) was the first long‐term therapy option for 88% of patients in all African regions, unlike western and central Africa where it was implemented for less than 30% of patients (p < 0.001). The rates of RF success, long‐term recurrence, and complications were 93%, 4.1%, and 3.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

There are significant variations between African regions in terms of diagnostic workup, accessory pathway localizations, and volume of invasive treatment. Countries in Northern and Southern Africa are more advanced than other African countries in terms of modern management strategy. Additional government investments are necessary to enhance diagnostic likelihood and curative treatments as well as to reduce the gap between different regions in Africa.
Physiological Pacing: Historical Review With an Eye to the Future
Authors: Sutton Richard , Prakash Atul
Published: January 2025

This review provides a history of physiological pacing from inception to current practice and into the future. This review stems from personal experience and is not formally systematic. Physiological cardiac pacing is covered from 1960s to date. Concepts, and major milestones with their practical applications are reviewed including possible applications in the future. Huge strides have been made in the last 50 years, but consequences of developments have not always been well considered resulting in important adverse effects. The future requires deep electrophysiological thinking to achieve further benefits for our patients.
Tolerance to multiple abiotic stresses is mediated by interacting CNGC proteins that regulate Ca2+ influx and stomatal movement in rice
Authors: Luo Lilin , Cui Yongmei , Ouyang Nana , Huang Shuying , Gong Xiaoli , Wei Lihui , Zou Baohong , Hua Jian , Lu Shan
Published: January 2025

Members of the cyclic nucleotide‐gated channel (CNGC) proteins are reportedly involved in a variety of biotic and abiotic responses and stomatal movement. However, it is unknown if and how a single member could regulate multiple responses. Here we characterized three closely related CNGC genes in rice, OsCNGC14, OsCNGC15 and OsCNGC16, to determine whether they function in multiple abiotic stresses. The loss‐of‐function mutants of each of these three genes had reduced calcium ion (Ca2+) influx and slower stomatal closure in response to heat, chilling, drought and the stress hormone abscisic acid (ABA). These mutants also had reduced tolerance to heat, chilling and drought compared with the wild‐type. Conversely, overexpression of OsCNGC16 led to a more rapid stomatal closure response to stresses and enhanced tolerance to heat, chilling and drought. The tight association of stomatal closure and stress tolerance strongly suggests that tolerance to multiple abiotic stresses conferred by these OsCNGC genes results at least partially from their regulation of stomatal movement. In addition, physical interactions were observed among the three OsCNGC proteins but not with a distantly related CNGC, suggesting the formation of hetero‐oligomers among themselves. This study unveils the crucial role of OsCNGC14, 15 and 16 proteins in stomatal response and tolerance to multiple stresses, suggesting a mechanism of tolerance to multiple stresses that involves calcium influx and stomatal movement regulation.
Capillary connections between sensory circumventricular organs and adjacent parenchyma enable local volume transmission
Authors: Yao Yifan , Chen Yannan , Tomer Raju , Silver Rae
Published: January 2025

Among contributors to diffusible signaling are portal systems which join two capillary beds through connecting veins. Portal systems allow diffusible signals to be transported in high concentrations directly from one capillary bed to the other without dilution in the systemic circulation. Two portal systems have been identified in the brain. The first was discovered almost a century ago and connects the median eminence to the anterior pituitary gland. The second was discovered a few years ago and links the suprachiasmatic nucleus to the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis, a sensory circumventricular organ (CVO). Sensory CVOs bear neuronal receptors for sensing signals in the fluid milieu. They line the surface of brain ventricles and bear fenestrated capillaries thereby lacking blood–brain barriers. It is not known whether the other sensory CVOs, namely the subfornical organ (SFO), and area postrema (AP) form portal neurovascular connections with nearby parenchymal tissue. To preserve the integrity of the vasculature of CVOs and their adjacent neuropil, we combined iDISCO clearing and light‐sheet microscopy to acquire volumetric images of blood vessels and traced the vasculature in two experiments. In the first, the whole brain vasculature was registered to the Allen Brain Atlas in order to identify the nuclei to which the SFO and AP are attached. In the second study, regionally specified immunolabeling was used to identify the attachment sites and vascular connections between the AP, and the SFO to their respective parenchymal attachment sites. There are venous portal pathways linking the capillary vessels of the SFO and the posterior septal nuclei, namely the septofimbrial nucleus and the triangular nucleus of the septum. Unlike the arrangement of portal vessels, the AP and the nucleus of the solitary tract share a common capillary bed. Taken together, the results reveal that all three sensory CVOs bear direct capillary connections to adjacent neuropil, providing a direct route for diffusible signals to travel from their source to their targets.
Exosomes for Aesthetic Dermatology: A Comprehensive Literature Review and Update
Authors: Shah Milaan , Dukharan Victoria , Broughton Luke , Stegura Carol , Schur Nina , Samman Luna , Schlesinger Todd
Published: January 2025

January 30, 2025: This article published prematurely in error. The article will republish shortly.
The impact of the trigger day progesterone, luteinizing hormone and their interaction on live birth rates in GnRH antagonist cycles
Authors: Ince Onur , Yilmaz Bulent
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study aims to assess the impacts of various trigger day progesterone (P4) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels on live birth rates (LBRs) in fresh in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, considering their elevation from stimulation and premature luteinization.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included the first ovarian stimulation cycles with GnRH antagonist protocol of 1253 patients who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection and fresh embryo transfer at a tertiary clinic's IVF center between 2010 and 2016. Participants were divided into four groups based on trigger day serum P4 and LH levels, using the 90th percentile thresholds for P4 (1.7 ng/mL) and LH (5.2 IU/L). The primary outcome measure was LBR.

Results

The LBRs observed in the respective groups were as follows: P4 < 1.7 ng/mL and LH <5.2 IU/L (21.3%, 214/1005); P4 < 1.7 ng/mL and LH ≥5.2 IU/L (19.1%, 22/115); P4 ≥ 1.7 ng/mL and LH <5.2 IU/L (19.3%, 23/119); and P4 ≥ 1.7 ng/mL and LH ≥5.2 IU/L (28.6%, 4/14). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups (p = 0.782). Additionally, a multivariate generalized additive model, adjusted for female age, body mass index, infertility duration, number of embryos transferred, and embryo transfer day, found that the interaction between LH and P4 levels did not significantly predict LBRs (p = 0.533). However, univariate analysis identified an optimal trigger day P4 range between 0.58 and 1.69 ng/mL for achieving higher LBRs, demonstrating a non‐linear relationship. Furthermore, total FSH and LH dosages during stimulation had a statistically significant combined effect on trigger day P4 levels (p = <0.001), with the addition of LH leading to lower P4 levels compared to cycles stimulated with recombinant FSH alone.

Conclusions

The relationship and interaction between trigger day LH and P4 levels do not significantly influence LBRs, as variations in LH do not alter the effect of P4, suggesting that the impact of P4 elevation on LBRs is independent of its cause, whether from ovarian stimulation or premature luteinization.
Effect of extrinsic pigmentation and multiple firing cycles on the properties of a zirconia‐containing lithium silicate ceramic
Authors: Andrade Everton Cocati , da Silva Sarah Emille Gomes , Caneppele Taciana Marco Ferraz , Machado João Paulo Barros , Leite Fabíola Pessoa Pereira , Miranda Jean Soares , Zhang Yu , e Souza Rodrigo Othávio de Assunção
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To assess the impact of staining and multiple firings on the mechanical, optical, and surface characteristics of zirconia‐containing lithium silicate ceramics (ZLS).

Materials and Methods

Ninety ZLS discs (Suprinity, VITA Zahnfabrick) were divided according to the “Number of firings” protocol: Ctr‐control, no characterization; SC–single firing cycle (for characterization, crystallization and staining simultaneously); and DC–double firing cycle (crystallization firing cycle was performed separately from the staining firing). Extrinsic pigmentation was performed to replicate the characterization of a monolithic restoration. A layer of stain and glaze was applied with a fine brush to the ceramic surface. Specimens were fired two or four cycles, designed to simulate additional staining firings for potential characterization adjustments, but without applying new stain, resulting in six groups (n = 15): CtrII, CtrIV, SCII, SCIV, DCII, and DCIV. X‐ray diffraction, color, translucency, and surface roughness analysis were also performed, and the samples were subjected to the biaxial flexural strength test. Data were subjected to one‐way ANOVA, Tukey's test (α = 0.05), and Weibull analysis.

Results

No changes in the diffractogram pattern were found, irrespective of the number of firings. The translucency (p = 0.02) and roughness (p < 0.01) of DCIV were significantly reduced compared to DCII. DCIV also showed the highest flexural strength (325.52AMPa), followed by SCII (271.64BMPa).

Conclusions

Repeated firings increased the flexural strength of ZLS, where the double‐step characterization technique demonstrated better statistical results than the other groups. Moreover, despite the ceramic showing good color stability, repeated firings significantly compromised its translucency.
Fracture resistance and behavior of endodontically treated maxillary premolars with varying ferrule heights and post numbers: A laboratory study
Authors: Aljanakh Mohammad D. , Bakitian Fahad A. , Almohefer Sami A. , Alshammari Hatem D. , Kensara Anmar , Madfa Ahmed A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate how varying ferrule heights and the number of glass fiber posts affect fracture resistance and behavior of endodontically treated maxillary first premolars with substantial loss of tooth structure.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four extracted endodontically treated human maxillary first premolars were divided into three groups (n = 8) based on ferrule height and post number. The groups were as follows: premolars of 2 mm ferrule height that were restored with single posts (control group), premolars of 0.5 mm ferrule height that were restored with single posts in palatal canals (single‐post group), and premolars of 0.5 mm ferrule height that were restored with double posts in palatal and buccal canals (double‐post group). All groups were then restored with composite core and metal‐ceramic crowns cemented with zinc phosphate cement. All specimens were subjected to 10,000 thermal cycles at temperatures of 5°C and 55°C, as well as 1.2 million cyclic loadings of 49 N load at 1.2 Hz using a chewing simulator. The specimens were loaded to fracture in a universal testing machine and fracture behavior was examined under stereomicroscope and divided into restorable and unrestorable fracture modes. Fracture loads and modes were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA, Tukey's post hoc test, and Fisher's exact probability test (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

The control group showed the highest mean fracture load (1127 ± 172) of all groups (p < 0.001). The specimens in the single‐post group showed numerically higher mean fracture load (522 ± 171) but with no significant difference compared to the ones in the double‐post group (518 ± 157; p > 0.967). In the control group, 75% of specimens showed unrestorable fractures compared to 50% and 12.5% in single‐post and double‐post groups. The specimens in the control group had similar unrestorable fractures, starting from the coronal part and extending obliquely to the cervical third of the root below resin level. Two specimens in the control group showed unrestorable fractures in the middle third of the root. No middle‐third root fractures were observed in single‐post and double‐post groups, and unrestorable fractures in both groups were similar to those of the control group. The single‐post group had two specimens with core‐post crown complex restorable fractures, while the control and double‐post groups had one specimen each. The remaining specimens showed cervical‐third root restorable fractures above resin level.

Conclusion

The ferrule height significantly influences the fracture resistance of endodontically treated premolars compared to the number of placed posts. Nonetheless, more restorable fractures are seen in endodontically treated premolars restored with double posts than single posts regardless of ferrule height.
Bulk Organic Matter Characteristics and Hydrocarbon Generation–Expulsion Modeling of Middle Jurassic–Lower Cretaceous Source Rocks in the Abadan Plain, Southern Mesopotamian Basin, SW Iran
Authors: Ghorbani Buyuk , Rahimpour‐Bonab Hossain , Tavakoli Vahid , Vahidimotlagh Navid , Kazemi Hojjat
Published: January 2025

This study examines the bulk organic geochemical properties, the burial and thermal history reconstruction, and timing of hydrocarbon generation of Jurassic and Cretaceous source rocks in the Abadan Plain, within the western Zagros fold‐and‐thrust belt in SW Iran. Three source rock units were evaluated: the Middle Jurassic (Bajocian–Callovian) Sargelu Formation, the Lower Cretaceous (Neocomian) Garau Formation, and the Lower Cretaceous (Aptian–Albian) Kazhdumi Formation. Rock‐Eval pyrolysis and organic petrography analyses revealed that the Sargelu Formation is overmature, with abundant solid bitumen and pyrobitumen, indicating depleted hydrocarbon generation potential. Total organic carbon (TOC) values range from 0.46 to 14.8 wt% with low hydrogen index (HI) values, suggesting no further liquid hydrocarbon generation is possible. The Garau Formation is highly mature with TOC values of 0.44–9.4 wt% and HI values below 400 mg HC/g TOC, confirming that hydrocarbon generation has occurred. While the advanced maturity of both formations prevents direct kerogen‐type identification through Rock‐Eval results, petrography indicates the Sargelu and Garau formations are indicative of Type II kerogen. The Kazhdumi Formation shows varied maturity levels, ranging from immature to marginally mature, with TOC values between 0.16 and 6.33 wt% and HI values from 72 to 626 mg HC/g TOC, reflecting a mix of Types II and III kerogen.

The one‐/two‐dimensional basin modeling conducted across the Azadegan, Yadavaran, Darquain, and Mahshahr fields reveals significant variations in burial depth, thermal history, and hydrocarbon generation potential. Thermal modeling indicates maximum burial temperatures were reached in the late Neogene, with the basal heat flow value of 45 mW/m2 for most fields, except in Darquain, where an elevated basal heat flow of 62 mW/m2, potentially linked to detachment thrusting within the Hormuz salt caused by the reactivation of basement faults, accelerated thermal maturation of the Sargelu and Garau source rocks. In Darquain, the Sargelu Formation has entered the wet gas window (VRo% ∼1.9), and the Garau Formation. has reached late oil to wet gas maturity (VRo% ∼1.5), while in Azadegan both remain in the late oil window. The Kazhdumi Formation remains immature to marginally mature across all fields. The calculated transformation ratio (TR) shows that the Sargelu and Garau Formation. Source rocks in Darquain have surpassed 90% TR, fully exhausting their liquid hydrocarbon generation potential. These findings offer critical insights into the petroleum system of the Abadan Plain, highlighting areas like Darquain, where hydrocarbons have already been expelled and zones such as Azadegan and Mahshahr, with further oil generation potential.
Genetic Analysis of the Bacterial Leaf Streak Pathogen Responsible for Severe Rice Infections in Senegal and Identification of Sources of Resistance
Authors: Dossou Akossan Bernadin , Foncéka Daniel , Tall Hamidou , Kane Ndjido Ardo , Faye Omar Ndaw , Zoclanclounon Yedomon Ange Bovys , Hutin Mathilde , Szurek Boris , Onaga Geoffrey , Manneh Baboucarr , Diédhiou Papa Madiallacké
Published: January 2025

Bacterial leaf streak (BLS) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) is a major bacterial disease affecting rice, wheat, triticale and Brassica crops. It was recently confirmed in Senegal with high incidence in rice fields. However, the precise Xoc strains responsible for the recent outbreaks remains unknown, and the sources of resistance to the growing disease pressure have yet to be identified. In this study, we tested the pathogenicity of Xoc strains collected from a 2023 epidemic in Senegal on Senegalese rice varieties and on near isogenic lines (NILs) specifically developed for a sister pathovar, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). We identified both local varieties and NILs resistant to 80% of the strains. However, neither NILs nor local varieties were resistant to S52‐4‐4, suggesting a significant mutation in this particular strain that poses a serious threat to rice production in Senegal. Comparative genomic and phylogenetic analysis revealed a close evolutionary relationship between S52‐4‐4 and pathogenic strains BLS256 and CFBP2286 from the Philippines and Malaysia respectively. Moreover, the detection of an equivalent number of TAL effectors in both S52‐4‐4 and BLS256 provided further evidence that both strains have a shared common ancestry. These findings, together with the available genomic sequence and characterisation of S52‐4‐4 in this study are useful for studying Xoc populations in Senegal and other countries. Nonetheless, S52‐4‐4 adaptation to all local cultivars grown in Senegal requires a prompt management response.
Search for pre‐accretionary irradiation effects in calcium‐aluminum inclusions from the CV3 chondrite Allende
Authors: Ghaznavi P. , Burkhardt C. , Tissot F. L. H. , Leya I.
Published: January 2025

Calcium‐aluminum‐rich inclusions (CAIs) are the first objects that formed in the solar accretion disk and therefore provide valuable insights into the evolution of the early solar system. A long‐standing question regarding this earliest formative period relates to the storage of CAIs in the 1–4 Myr time period between their formation and later accretion into chondrite parent bodies. Were the CAIs stored in a pre‐existing parent body, or in distant parts of the solar accretion disk? In the latter scenario, CAIs might have been exposed to cosmic rays, either from the galaxy or from the Sun and such pre‐accretion irradiation effects might be detectable. We searched for such pre‐accretional irradiation effects in 7 fine‐ and 11 coarse‐grained CAIs from the CV 3.6 carbonaceous chondrite Allende. The extracted samples were analyzed for their major chemical composition and all samples were analyzed using μCT techniques. Using physical model calculations, 21Necos and (22Ne/21Ne)cos production rate ratios were calculated for each CAI by fully considering their individual chemical composition. Measured He, Ne, Ar, and Kr isotope compositions of the CAIs show cosmogenic signals; clear signals for He and Ne isotopes; and detectable signals for some of the Ar and Kr isotopes. In addition, most samples show clear indications for radiogenic 4He and some samples show evidence for radiogenic 40Ar. Higher 36Ar/38Ar, 22Ne/21Ne, 80Kr/84Kr, and 82Kr/84Kr ratios together with lower cosmogenic 38Arcos concentrations in fine‐grained CAIs compared to coarse‐grained CAIs are consistent with more alteration of the former compared to the latter. The CRE ages for the CAIs range between 4.12 ± 0.41 Myr and 6.40 ± 0.63 Myr. Statistical tests indicate that the data are normally distributed with no outliers, indicating that all CAIs share a common irradiation history, likely the irradiation in the Allende meteoroid. The average CRE age of 4.87 ± 0.19 Myr agrees with the nominally accepted CRE age of Allende of ~5.2 Myr. There is no correlation between 21Necos concentrations and indicators of aqueous alteration like Na and/or U concentrations. The lack of correlation together with the finding of normally distributed modeled CRE ages indicates that either none of the studied CAIs experienced a pre‐accretion irradiation before parent body compaction and/or that any pre‐accretion irradiation effects have been completely erased during aqueous alteration events. Taking alteration aside, the findings are not in favor of X‐wind type models but are more consistent with the idea of CAI outward transport in an expanding disk.
Geology, gravity, and numerical modeling of the Nova Colinas impact structure, Parnaíba Basin, Brazil
Authors: Avona Pietro Demattê , Crósta Alvaro Penteado , Vasconcelos Marcos Alberto Rodrigues , Bjonnes Evan , Pereira Fernando Lessa , Góes Ana Maria
Published: January 2025

Nova Colinas, centered at 07°09′33″ S/46°06′30″ W, is the ninth confirmed complex impact structure in Brazil and the fifth in the Parnaíba Basin, with a diameter of ~6.5–7 km and a nearly circular shape. Impactites include shocked siltstones from the Pedra de Fogo Fm. found at the central peak, brecciated sandstone from the Sambaíba Fm. bearing microscopic shock features, and brecciated basalt from the Mosquito Fm. bearing shatter cones. The impact event's age has been constrained to the interval from ~130 to ~199 Ma based on the local stratigraphy. Due to its moderate to advanced stage of erosion, geophysical modeling combined with geological field data were employed for its characterization. A new geological map was produced through field observations and remote sensing image interpretation, as well as a 3‐D model based on ground gravity data and numerical modeling. iSALE2D shock physics code was employed to simulate the formation of Nova Colinas crater. The results revealed its main structural zones: the central uplift, annular basin, and outer rim, each associated with specific lithostratigraphic units from the Parnaíba Basin. Bouguer residual anomalies ranged from −3.6 to 1.2 mGal, with a nearly circular positive anomaly at the center of the structure, surrounded by a negative anomaly. 3‐D gravity data inversion indicated a buried high‐density body, likely due to the uplift of a diabase sill. Results of the numerical modeling point out that the final crater reached gravitational stability with a diameter of ~7 km and a depth of ~240 m, suggesting that a narrow outcrop strip of the Motuca Fm. was uplifted to a higher level compared to the Sambaíba Fm. strata, forming an antiform‐like “arch” that creates an inner ring that exposes rocks of the Motuca Formation.
The Impact of Administrative Districts and Urban Landscape on the Dispersal of Aedes aegypti via Genetic Differentiation
Authors: Huang Chin‐Gi , Tseng Yi‐Cheng , Yu Tsung‐Han , Cheng Hui‐Ching , Tsai Tsung‐Ju , Ting Jou‐Hsin , Ho Hsin‐Yi , Lee Ya‐Zhe , Chiu Yen‐Chieh , Huang Yu‐Ting , Shih Ting‐Chun , Hsiao Hsiang‐Yu , Wu Yi‐Jun , Li Shi‐Ya , Huang Yu‐Chi , Yang Yung‐Cheng , Chen Pei‐Qi , Hsiao Chun‐Yi , Wang Hurng‐Yi
Published: January 2025

Mosquito‐borne diseases affect millions and cause numerous deaths annually. Effective vector control, which hinges on understanding their dispersal, is vital for reducing infection rates. Given the variability in study results, likely due to environmental and human factors, gathering local dispersal data is critical for targeted disease control. To analyse the spread and differentiation of Aedes aegypti in southern Taiwan, we established a dengue vector monitoring network in Southern Taiwan's cities. This network employed GPS‐equipped ovitraps to gather eggs that were subsequently hatched in the laboratory and genotyped using genome‐wide SNP markers. From 168 individuals, we identified 757,238 SNPs for detailed analysis. The estimated effective dispersal distance was 154 m (95% CI: 126–180 m), consistent with prior mark‐release‐recapture (MRR) estimates. We discovered that geographic isolation significantly influences genetic differentiation at larger scales, such as between cities, whereas its correlation with genetic distances is considerably weaker at smaller scales, like within cities. This is likely due to the urban landscape in Taiwan, characterised by narrow roads and densely packed buildings, which facilitates extensive dispersal of Ae. aegypti. In evaluating potential barriers to Ae. aegypti dispersal, we found that roads had no significant impact, whereas administrative districts accounted for 4.8% of the population differentiation (p < 10−4). Surprisingly, this variation aligns with the effects of district‐specific mosquito control measures implemented at the municipal level. These findings highlight the complex interplay between urban landscapes, administrative measures and Ae. aegypti dispersal, emphasising the need for implementing targeted control strategies that consider these local dynamics.
Percutaneous Nephrostomy in Kidney Transplant Recipients: Incidence, Risk Factors, Complications and Outcomes
Authors: Alhassoun Alia , Alkhatib Bassel , Idilbi Amro , Hallak Mohamed Hussam , Ghanem Roaa , Hanouneh Tareq , Jarmi Tambi
Published: January 2025

Ureteral stenosis is a frequent complication after kidney transplantation, causing significant morbidity and potential graft function impairment. Treatment options include conservative management, endourological procedures, surgical interventions and percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN). While PCN effectively relieves obstruction, it comes with its own complications. This study evaluates the risk factors, incidence, complications and outcomes of PCN in this population.

We conducted a retrospective case series analysis of 98 kidney transplant recipients who underwent PCN. Data on demographics, clinical characteristics and procedural outcomes were collected and analysed to assess the incidence of complications and identify associated risk factors.

Among the 98 recipients, the median age at transplant was 56 years, with 52% being male. The most common comorbidities included hypertension (75.5%) and diabetes mellitus (35.7%). Complications occurred in 38.8% of patients, with infections being the most frequent (74.4%), including urinary tract infections (28.9%) and pyelonephritis (22.4%). The primary organisms identified were gram‐negative bacteria (55.1%). Reconstructive surgery was required in 35.7% of cases and patient survival was 83.7% at follow‐up.

In conclusion, PCN in kidney transplant recipients is associated with a high rate of complications, particularly infections. Effective management necessitates the identification and addressing of associated risk factors such as diabetes, elevated BMI and specific induction therapies. While PCN is vital for preserving graft function, further research should focus on refining clinical protocols and developing targeted preventive strategies for high‐risk patients.
Artificial Intelligence to Predict Chronic Kidney Disease Progression to Kidney Failure: A Narrative Review
Authors: Miller Zane A. , Dwyer Karen
Published: January 2025

Chronic kidney disease is characterised by the progressive loss of kidney function. However, predicting who will progress to kidney failure is difficult. Artificial Intelligence, including Machine Learning, shows promise in this area. This narrative review highlights the most common and important variables used in machine learning models to predict progressive chronic kidney disease. Ovid Medline and EMBASE were searched in August 2023 with keywords relating to ‘chronic kidney disease’, ‘machine learning’, and ‘end‐stage renal disease’. Studies were assessed against inclusion and exclusion criteria and excluded if variables inputted into machine learning models were not discussed. Data extraction focused on specific variables inputted into the machine learning models. After screening of 595 articles, 16 were included in the review. The most utilised machine learning models were random forest, support vector machines and XGBoost. The most commonly occurring variables were age, gender, measures of renal function, measures of proteinuria, and full blood examination. Only half of all studies included clinical variables in their models. The most important variables overall were measures of renal function, measures of proteinuria, age, full blood examination and serum albumin. Machine learning was consistently superior or non‐inferior when compared to the Kidney Failure Risk Equation. This review identified key variables used in machine learning models to predict chronic kidney disease progression to kidney failure. These findings lay the foundations for the development of future machine learning models capable of rivalling the Kidney Failure Risk Equation in the provision of accurate kidney failure prediction.