bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intertribal Talking Circle for the prevention of alcohol and drug use among Native American youth
Authors: Lowe John , Brooks Jada , Lawrence Gary , Baldwin Julie A. , Kelley Melessa , Wimbish‐Tompkins Rose
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a culturally based intervention, the Intertribal Talking Circle program, compared to a standard alcohol and drug abuse education, the Be A Winner program. Community‐based participatory research was used to implement a two‐condition, quasi‐experimental study. The sample included 540 Native American youth ages 10−12 years old from three tribal areas in the United States. Data were collected at baseline, 6 and 12‐months post‐intervention for both the intervention and control groups using demographic, cultural identity, alcohol use, and drug use questionnaires. Regression models evaluated participants' improvement in decreasing alcohol and drug use and increasing cultural identity. Findings revealed that alcohol and drug use decreased more significantly among youth who participated in the Intertribal Talking Circle (ITC) intervention program than youth who participated in a standard alcohol and drug abuse education Be A Winner (BAW) program. Cultural identity also increased more significantly among participants who completed the Talking Circle intervention program. Native American youth ages 10−12 years old respond positively to a culturally based intervention for the reduction of alcohol and drug use. The findings highlight the importance of cultural values and identity and their significance in preventing and reducing alcohol and drug use among Native American youth.
A Power Loss‐Based Modeling of Power Conversion Efficiency in Organic and Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Mehdizadeh‐Rad Hooman , Setsoafia Daniel Dodzi Yao , Sreedhar Ram Kiran , Abdi‐Jalebi Mojtaba , Ompong David , Singh Jai
Published: January 2024

This article presents a new mathematical model for simulating the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of organic solar cells (OSCs) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This model incorporates all power losses that can occur before the charge carriers are collected by their respective electrodes. This includes power loss due to thermalization of the charge carriers above the bandgap (), charge carrier recombination (, dissociation of excitons (, and the transport of free charge carriers to their respective electrodes through the energy off‐sets (. By quantifying each power loss, the model can simulate the net electrical power generated by a solar cell and estimate its PCE. The validity of the mathematical model is tested by comparing the calculated PCE of an OSC and a PSC with their experimental results and the results obtained from the conventional simulation, which are found to be in good agreement. It is found that the highest power loss occurs due to in both OSC and PSC. Compared to conventional models, this model establishes a direct relationship between PCE and individual power losses that may occur in both OSCs and PSCs.
Synergistic effect of new imidazoline derivative and 2‐aminopyridine as corrosion inhibitors for Q235: Experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Wang Pengjie , Fan Lin , Song Yuhao , Deng Kuaihai , Guo Lei , Li Zhonghui , Lin Yuanhua
Published: January 2024

In order to reduce the investment of corrosion inhibitors, based on experimental and theoretical studies, the corrosion inhibition and mechanism of new imidazoline derivatives (SMIS) and 2‐aminopyridine (AMP) were investigated carefully. The best corrosion inhibition effect was at 0.7‐g/L SMIS and 0.3‐g/L AMP, the corrosion inhibition efficiency of weight loss, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and potentiodynamic polarization (Tafel) were 90.54%, 98.56% and 97.68%, respectively. Electrochemical research shows that SMIS& belongs to cathodic corrosion inhibition. SMIS& mainly increased the film resistance and charge transfer resistance in 1‐M HCl, thus playing a certain role in corrosion inhibition. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy dispersive spectrometer proved that SMIS& can be adsorbed on the surface of Q235, molecular dynamics showed that there was a certain synergy between SMIS and AMP. This study confirmed that SMIS and AMP have a good synergistic effect, improve the corrosion inhibition efficiency, reduce the synthesis cost of SMIS, and have a certain guiding significance for synergistic corrosion inhibition.
Wilhelmy balance—A simple and reliable method for determining immersion angles and surface energies even on non‐planar and complex geometries?
Authors: Behnecke Marius , Berghaus Eva , Wildeis Alina , Brandes Eva , Petersen Svea
Published: January 2024

The growing significance of surface properties in modern materials, particularly in medical technology, drives the need for accurate characterization techniques. Traditional contact angle measurements face challenges when applied to intricate surfaces like dental implants. Here, tensiometry applying the Wilhelmy plate method has been described in the last decade to offer one solution for the evaluation of complex surface geometries by quantifying apparent contact angles based on wetting forces. This study evaluates a simple setup employing the Wilhelmy balance concept for immersion angle determination. Instead of using a force sensor as in tensiometers, the wetting force is determined via changes in mass signal by means of an analytical balance available in standard laboratories. The force is thus recorded inverse to conventional tensiometry. The approach was validated on diverse geometries and extended to intricate structures, including plasma‐treated dental implants. Results were compared to conventional contact angle analysis systems underlining the reliability of the method in characterizing non‐planar and complex surfaces. Additionally, the method was successfully extended to the evaluation of surface energies on planar and non‐planar surfaces using various solvent sets. However, results evidenced that specimen geometry can influence the measurements to such an extent that immersion contact angles can no longer be calculated due to capillary effects. An outlook suggests further exploration with a wider range of test liquids to enhance accuracy in surface energy determination.
Privacy‐preserving credit risk analysis based on homomorphic encryption aware logistic regression in the cloud
Authors: Divakar Allavarpu V. V. L. , Naresh Vankamamidi S. , Krishna Mohan A.
Published: January 2024

With the growing significance of Credit Risk Analysis (CRA) with a focus on privacy, there is a pressing demand for a Privacy Preserving Machine Learning (PPML) decision support system. In this context, we introduce a framework for privacy‐preserving credit risk analysis that utilizes Homomorphic Encryption aware Logistic Regression (HELR) on encrypted data. The implementation involves the use of TenSEAL and Torch libraries for Logistic Regression (LR), integrating the proposed HELR on polynomial degrees 3 and 5 across German, Taiwan, Japan, and Australian datasets. The presented model yields satisfactory results compared to non‐Homomorphic Encryption (HE) models, demonstrating a minimal accuracy difference ranging from 0.5% to 7.8%. Notably, HELR_g5 outperforms HELR_g3, exhibiting a higher Area Under Curve (AUC) value. Additionally, a thorough security analysis indicates the resilience of the proposed system against various privacy attacks, including poison attacks, evasion attacks, member inference attacks, model inversion attacks, and model extraction attacks at different stages of machine learning. Finally, in the comparative analysis, we highlight that the proposed model ensures data privacy, encompassing training privacy and model privacy during the training phase, as well as input and output privacy during the inference phase a level of privacy not achieved by existing systems.
Friction Stir Welding‐Induced Microstructural Changes in Low‐Alloy Steel Post‐Tempforming
Authors: Dolzhenko Anastasiia , Malopheyev Sergey , Lugovskaya Anna , Dudko Valeriy , Tikhonova Marina , Kaibyshev Rustam , Belyakov Andrey
Published: January 2024

A feasibility of friction stir welding for a high‐strength low‐alloy steel subjected to tempforming, that is, tempering followed by large‐strain warm rolling at tempering temperature, is presented. The martensite microstructure tempered at 873 K for 1 h and then subjected to warm rolling to total strain of 1.5 is characterized by a lamellar‐type ultrafine‐grained microstructure consisting of pan‐caked grains with the transverse size of 560 nm and exhibits the tensile strength of 1020 MPa. The friction stir welding is accompanied by heating the stir zone of the welded sample well above Ac1 temperature. Hence, the welding seam experiences austenite reversion followed by martensitic transformation. The microstructure evolved in the stir zone is composed of near‐equiaxed grains with an average size of 1.3 μm. Nevertheless, the stir zone possesses increased hardness up to 350 HV as compared to that of 290 HV in the base material after tempforming. Upon tensile test of the welded joint, the strain localization followed by fracture occurs in the heat‐affected zone close to the stir zone. The tensile strength of 970 MPa is obtained for the welded joint that is quite close to the base material after temforming.
The effect of cortisol on equine monocyte–derived dendritic cell phenotype and cytokine production
Authors: Lopez Brina S. , Hurley David J. , Giancola Shyla , Giguère Steeve , Hart Kelsey A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Increased risk of infection in neonates, including foals, is associated with the naivety of the immune system and the immaturity of the endocrine system. Foal dendritic cells (DCs) are phenotypically and functionally less mature than adult horse DCs. Exposure of foal DCs to foal plasma alters DC phenotypic maturation, cytokine secretion and bacterial endocytosis. Specific plasma factors that impact equine DC activity are unknown. Endocrine dysfunction, resulting in altered cortisol availability, is common in foals. Cortisol impacts DC maturation and function in other species, but the effect of cortisol on equine DCs is not described. We hypothesized that exposure to cortisol would impact both the phenotype and function of equine monocyte–derived DCs (MoDCs), perpetuating an immature phenotype and altered cytokine profile.

Methods

MoDCs were generated from foals (n = 8) on 1, 7 and 30 days of age and adult horses (n = 9). MoDCs were exposed to killed bacteria in the presence or absence of cortisol. The expression of surface markers (MHC class‐II, CD86 and CD14) was measured by flow cytometry. Supernatant cytokine concentrations (IL‐4, IL‐17, IFN‐γ and IL‐10) were quantified using a validated bead‐based immunoassay.

Results

Cortisol exposure reduced the percentage of equine MoDCs expressing MHC class‐II and CD86 (p ≤ 0.03). Adult horse MoDCs exposed to bacteria and cortisol produced less IL‐4, IL‐17, IFN‐γ and IL‐10 than cells not treated with cortisol, and foal MoDCs secreted less IL‐10 and IL‐4 (p ≤ 0.009).

Conclusions

In sum, cortisol exposure perpetuates an immature MoDC phenotype and alters cytokine responses, which might impact the foal's susceptibility to infection.
Can the rigid stylet from an intravenous catheter be an alternative vascular access device for intraosseous catheterisation?
Authors: Kim Janghwan , Kim Daesik , Seo Daeyun , Hwang Hyejin , Kim Yuna , Chung Taekyu , Lim Seongsoo , Lee Hansol , Namgoong Beomkwan , Choe Ahreum , Hong Hyeajeong , Umh Heesung , Kim Min Su
Published: January 2024

Background

It may be challenging for practitioners to secure vascular access in animals, especially in a state of shock.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical relevance of commercial 16‐gauge intravenous (IV) catheter stylet vs. 15‐gauge intraosseous (IO) vascular access in emergencies.

Methods

Six healthy dogs were used in this study. After general anaesthesia, IO catheterisation was performed on both trochanteric fossae of the femurs using a commercial 16‐gauge IV catheter stylet and EZIO 15‐gauge IO needle. The pressures were measured by manual, gravity and mechanical infusion for 5 min each. Additionally, insertion time and success rate were recorded.

Results

In hand infusion, mean pressure of a 16‐gauge IO (605.06 ± 49.13 mmHg) was statistically lower than that of a 15‐gauge EZIO IO catheterisation (718.84 ± 93.09 mmHg). In gravity infusion, there was no significant difference in pressure during injection between the 16‐gauge IV catheter (52.23 ± 14.48 mmHg) and 15‐gauge EZIO IO catheterisation (50.68 ± 11.89 mmHg). In mechanical infusion, mean pressure of the 15‐gauge EZIO IO catheterisation (128.25 ± 50.16 mmHg) was lower than that of the 16‐gauge IV catheter (152.56 ± 67.23 mmHg). The insertion times of a 16‐gauge IV catheter and 15‐gauge EZIO IO catheterisation were 16.79 ± 0.92 and 11.65 ± 1.70 s, respectively. The success rates of the insertion were similar between both groups.

Conclusion

This study shows that IO catheterisation with a commercial IV catheter stylet can be an alternative method of IO catheterisation in an emergency, especially for rapid vascular access.
GLIS3 expression in the thyroid gland in relation to TSH signaling and regulation of gene expression
Authors: Kang Hong Soon , Grimm Sara A. , Liao Xiao-Hui , Jetten Anton M.
Published: January 2024

Loss of GLI-Similar 3 (GLIS3) function in mice and humans causes congenital hypothyroidism (CH). In this study, we demonstrate that GLIS3 protein is first detectable at E15.5 of murine thyroid development, a time at which GLIS3 target genes, such as Slc5a5 (Nis), become expressed. This, together with observations showing that ubiquitous Glis3KO mice do not display major changes in prenatal thyroid gland morphology, indicated that CH in Glis3KO mice is due to dyshormonogenesis rather than thyroid dysgenesis. Analysis of GLIS3 in postnatal thyroid suggested a link between GLIS3 protein expression and blood TSH levels. This was supported by data showing that treatment with TSH, cAMP, or adenylyl cyclase activators or expression of constitutively active PKA enhanced GLIS3 protein stability and transcriptional activity, indicating that GLIS3 activity is regulated at least in part by TSH/TSHR-mediated activation of PKA. The TSH-dependent increase in GLIS3 transcriptional activity would be critical for the induction of GLIS3 target gene expression, including several thyroid hormone (TH) biosynthetic genes, in thyroid follicular cells of mice fed a low iodine diet (LID) when blood TSH levels are highly elevated. Like TH biosynthetic genes, the expression of cell cycle genes is suppressed in ubiquitous Glis3KO mice fed a LID; however, in thyroid-specific Glis3 knockout mice, the expression of cell cycle genes was not repressed, in contrast to TH biosynthetic genes. This indicated that the inhibition of cell cycle genes in ubiquitous Glis3KO mice is dependent on changes in gene expression in GLIS3 target tissues other than the thyroid.
Effect of wood moisture content and adhesive open time on the adhesion strength of wet bonded Pinus radiata wood
Authors: Favis Jesse , Balboni Bruno Monteiro , Wessels C. Brand
Published: January 2024

Gluing wood in the wet state can reduce warping, splitting, and increase processing volume recovery. Adhesive open time and moisture content may play an important role in bond line strength, but there are no specifications for wet wood bonding. Wood specimens at two different moisture contents were glued with three polyurethane adhesives and tested in shear on the bond line. Open time of 15 min was superior to 4 and 40 min. All adhesives performed better when wood was glued at 30% moisture content than at 101%, but only the 15- and 40-min open time met the minimum shear requirement.
Larger Common River Frogs (Amietia delalandii) have Fewer and Shorter Tissue Microplastic Fibres than Smaller Frogs
Authors: Burger Mari , Bouwman Hindrik , du Preez Louis H. , Landman Willie
Published: January 2024

Little is known about microplastics (MPs) in adult frogs. We investigated MPs in adult Common River Frogs (Amietia delalandii) from Potchefstroom, South Africa. Five kinds of samples were analysed: natural water, water used to rinse the skin, skin, intestine, and the remainder of the body (corpus). Tissues were digested. Microplastics occurred in all frogs and sample types (1128 MPs counted). Fibres were the most prevalent MP. Fibre lengths were between 28 and 4300 μm, either polyester or polyvinyl alcohol. MPs in skin were likely derived from the ambient, and MPs in the corpus from translocation via the skin. Fibres in tissues were significantly shorter in larger frogs, a phenomenon we provisionally assign to in situ biodegradation. Microplastics in frogs can potentially be transferred through the food web to higher trophic levels. This study provides the first evidence of MPs in adult frog tissues and avenues for further investigations.

Graphical Abstract
Low soil Moisture Slows Uptake and Elimination Rates of Phenanthrene in Springtails
Authors: Wang Yang , Slotsbo Stine , Sørensen Peter B. , Holmstrup Martin
Published: January 2024

This study investigated the influence of soil water status on the toxicokinetics of phenanthrene in the springtail Folsomia candida allowing estimation of uptake and elimination rates at two contrasting soil water potentials. Fitting a three-phase model to the observations showed that uptake rate (ku) was almost two times higher in moist soil (-2 kPa) than in dry soil (-360 kPa). During the first days of the exposure, elimination rate (ke) was not significantly different in moist and dry soil, but after eight days ke had increased significantly more in moist soil than in dry soil. Our results confirm the general notion that the exposure route via soil pore water is important. Understanding the significance of soil moisture in exposure and effects of contaminants on soil invertebrates is crucial for assessing the ecological risks associated with soil pollution in a changing climate.
Affective neuroscience theory and attitudes towards artificial intelligence
Authors: Montag Christian , Ali Raian , Davis Kenneth L.
Published: January 2024

Artificial intelligence represents a key technology being inbuilt into evermore products. Research investigating attitudes towards artificial intelligence surprisingly is still scarce, although it becomes apparent that artificial intelligence will shape societies around the globe. To better understand individual differences in attitudes towards artificial intelligence, the present study investigated in n = 351 participants associations between the Affective Neuroscience Personality Scales (ANPS) and the Attitudes towards Artificial Intelligence framework (ATAI). It could be observed that in particular higher levels of SADNESS were associated with higher negative attitudes towards AI (fearing AI). The findings are discussed in this work from an evolutionary perspective because primary emotional systems—according to Affective Neuroscience Theory—represent tools for survival, which have been homologously conserved across mammalian species including homo sapiens.
A comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of prognostic value and potential clinical implications of FTH1 in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Luo Yuejun , Liu Chengming , Yao Yuxin , Tang Xiaoya , Yin Enzhi , Lu Zhiliang , Sun Nan , He Jie
Published: January 2024

Background

Numerous studies have highlighted the crucial value of the heavy chain of ferritin (FTH1) as a key regulator of iron metabolism and a suppressor of ferroptosis, intimately tied to the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Nevertheless, the precise impact of FTH1 on cancer immunotherapy remains vague. Our study aims to systematically explore the prognostic significance and immune role of FTH1 in pan-cancers immunotherapy.

Methods

Our study delves into the potential of FTH1 as an immunotherapeutic target within the TIME of various solid cancers. The immune landscape and underlying mechanisms of FTH1 in the TIME were investigated by multiple algorithms and bioinformatics methods. Single-cell sequencing analysis and multiplex immunofluorescence staining techniques are applied to observe FTH1 co-expression on both tumor and immune cells.

Results

FTH1 exhibited aberrant expression patterns across multiple cancers, which is strongly correlated with immunotherapy resistance. Patients with high FTH1 expression levels tended to derive less benefit from immunotherapies. Moreover, FTH1 demonstrated a significant correlation with TIME infiltration, immune checkpoint molecules, and immune-related pathways. Notably, FTH1 showed a positive association with macrophage infiltrations, its expression was particularly noteworthy in malignant cells and macrophages. Inhibiting FTH1-related signaling pathways appeared to be a potential strategy to counteract tumor immunotherapy resistance.

Conclusion

Our comprehensive analyses may offer valuable insights into the role of FTH1 in tumor immunotherapy. The observed correlations pave the way for further functional experiments, fostering an enhanced understanding that could shape future research endeavors.
Mutational analysis of the transmembrane α4-helix of Bacillus thuringiensis mosquito-larvicidal Cry4Aa toxin
Authors: Takahashi Hirokazu , Asakura Mami , Ide Toru , Hayakawa Tohru
Published: January 2024

Cry4Aa, produced by Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis, exhibits specific toxicity to larvae of medically important mosquito genera. Cry4Aa functions as a pore-forming toxin, and a helical hairpin (α4-loop-α5) of domain I is believed to be the transmembrane domain that forms toxin pores. Pore formation is considered to be a central mode of Cry4Aa action, but the relationship between pore formation and toxicity is poorly understood. In the present study, we constructed Cry4Aa mutants in which each polar amino acid residues within the transmembrane α4 helix was replaced with glutamic acid. Bioassays using Culex pipiens mosquito larvae and subsequent ion permeability measurements using symmetric KCl solution revealed an apparent correlation between toxicity and toxin pore conductance for most of the Cry4Aa mutants. In contrast, the Cry4Aa mutant H178E was a clear exception, almost losing its toxicity but still exhibiting a moderately high conductivity of about 60% of the wild-type. Furthermore, the conductance of the pore formed by the N190E mutant (about 50% of the wild-type) was close to that of H178E, but the toxicity was significantly higher than that of H178E. Ion selectivity measurements using asymmetric KCl solution revealed a significant decrease in cation selectivity of toxin pores formed by H178E compared to N190E. Our data suggest that the toxicity of Cry4Aa is primarily pore related. The formation of toxin pores that are highly ion-permeable and also highly cation-selective may enhance the influx of cations and water into the target cell, thereby facilitating the eventual death of mosquito larvae.
Pre- and Post-harvest Elicitation with Methyl Jasmonate and Salicylic Acid Followed by Cold Storage Synergistically Improves Red Colour Development and Health-Promoting Compounds in Blood Oranges
Authors: Vithana Mekhala Dinushi Kananke , Singh Zora , Ul Hasan Mahmood
Published: January 2024

Red blush is one of the key quality markers of blood orange fruit (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck). Therefore, the influence of pre- (1, 2, and 3 mM) and postharvest (0.5, 1, and 1.5 mM) methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and salicylic acid (SA) (1, 2, and 3 mM) treatments on redness, colouring pigments, and health-promoting compounds in cold stored ‘Tarocco Ippolito’ blood oranges was investigated. Preharvest application of 3 mM MeJA significantly increased rind citrus colour index (CCI) by 43.3% and colorimetric coordinate a* (redness) by 3.1% and decreased h° (hue angle, 0 = red), L* (lightness), and b* (yellowness) by 13.7%, 12.6%, and 23.4%, respectively. This treatment also enhanced CCI (57.4%), reduced h° (16.5%) and L* (36.4%), and increased total anthocyanins (88%), monomeric anthocyanins (117%), and flavonoids (77%) in the juice. Postharvest dip of 1.5 mM MeJA (5 min) improved CCI of juice (53.6%) and a* (5.5%), reduced h° (15.9%), L* (19.8%), and b* (19.4%), and increased total anthocyanins (66.7%), monomeric anthocyanins (74%), and flavonoids (23.4%) in the juice. Preharvest application of 1 mM SA increased rind CCI (50.8%) and reduced L* (13.6%), b* (16.4%), and h° (29.5%). All preharvest SA treatments significantly increased total phenolics in the juice. Lycopene was increased (61.7%) by 5 min postharvest dip of 3 mM SA. In conclusion, 3 mM preharvest spray application of MeJA four weeks before harvest and postharvest dip of 1.5 mM MeJA (5 min) are effective in improving red colour of rind and juice and health-promoting compounds in blood orange juice.
Combined Effect of Biochar and Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizbacteria on Physiological Responses of Canola (Brassica napus L.) Subjected to Drought Stress
Authors: Gul-Lalay  , Ullah Sami , Shah Sikandar , Jamal Aftab , Saeed Muhammad Farhan , Mihoub Adil , Zia Adil , Ahmed Iftikhar , Seleiman Mahmoud F. , Mancinelli Roberto , Radicetti Emanuele
Published: January 2024

Biochar (BC) and plant growth-promoting microbes (PGPR) could represent a suitable agronomical strategy to mitigate the impacts of drought in arid agro-environmental conditions. However, there is currently little understanding of the synergistic benefit of combining BC and PGPR to increase drought tolerance in oilseeds. In this study, the physiological response of two water-stressed canola (Brassica napus L.) plants subjected to the application of BC obtained from waste wood of Morus alba applied solely or in combination with PGPR strains (Pseudomonas sp.) was evaluated. The experiment consists of two genotypes and nine treatments [(C-Control, T1-15 days drought (15DD), T2-30 days drought (30DD), T3-15 days of drought + PG (15DD + PG), T4-30 days of drought + PG (30DD + PG), T5-15 days drought + biochar (15DD + BC), T6-30 days drought + biochar (30DD + BC), T7-15 days drought + biochar + PG (15DD + BC + PG), T8-30 days drought + biochar + PG (30DD + BC + PG)]. Drought stress decreased emergence energy (EE), leaf area index (LAI), leaf area ratio (LAR), root shoot ratio (RSR), moisture content of leaves (MCL), percent moisture content (%MC), moisture content of shoot (MCS) and moisture content of root (MCR), and relative water content (RWC) in both varieties of Brassica napus L., which in contrast, it is increased by the collective application of both biochar and PGPR. In both varieties, N, P, K, Mg, and Ca concentrations were highest in all the biochar and PGPRs separate and combined treatments, while lowest in 15 and 30 days drought treatments. Osmolyte contents like Glycine betaine (GB) and sugar remarkably increased in the stress condition and then reduced due to the synergistic application of biochar and PGPR. Drought stress has a repressive effect on the antioxidant enzymatic system like Peroxidase (POD), Superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione reductase (GR) as well as total flavonoids, phenolics, and protein content. The antioxidant enzymes and phenolic compounds were dramatically increased by the combined action of biochar and PGPRs. A significant increase in EE, LAR, RSR, and RWC under 15 and 30 days drought conditions, evidently highlighting the synergistic effect of BC and PGPR. The results conclude a substantial and positive effect of the combined use of BC and PGPR strains on canola's response to induced drought stress, by regulating the physiological, biochemical, and agronomic traits of the plants.

Graphical Abstract
Hormonal Regulation of Ovule Initiation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Barro-Trastoy Daniela , Gomez Maria Dolores , Tornero Pablo , Perez-Amador Miguel A.
Published: January 2024

As seed precursors, ovules are fundamental organs during the plant life cycle. Decades of morphological and molecular study have allowed for the elucidation of the complex and intricate genetic network regulating ovule development. Ovule and seed number is highly dependent on the number of ovule primordia that are determined from the placenta during early pistil development. Ovule initiation is positively regulated by the plant hormones auxins, cytokinins, and brassinosteroids, as well as negatively regulated by gibberellins. Each hormone does not act independently; multiple points of hormonal crosstalk occur to coordinately regulate ovule primordia initiation. In this review, we highlight the roles of these hormones and their interactions in the genetic and hormonal network co-regulating ovule initiation in Arabidopsis.
The Oriented Diameter of Graphs with Given Connected Domination Number and Distance Domination Number
Authors: Dankelmann Peter , Morgan Jane , Rivett-Carnac Emily
Published: January 2024

Let G be a bridgeless graph. An orientation of G is a digraph obtained from G by assigning a direction to each edge. The oriented diameter of G is the minimum diameter among all strong orientations of G. The connected domination number $$\gamma _c(G)$$

γ
c

(
G
)

of G is the minimum cardinality of a set S of vertices of G such that every vertex of G is in S or adjacent to some vertex of S, and which induces a connected subgraph in G. We prove that the oriented diameter of a bridgeless graph G is at most $$2 \gamma _c(G) +3$$

2

γ
c

(
G
)

+
3

if $$\gamma _c(G)$$

γ
c

(
G
)

is even and $$2 \gamma _c(G) +2$$

2

γ
c

(
G
)

+
2

if $$\gamma _c(G)$$

γ
c

(
G
)

is odd. This bound is sharp. For $$d \in {\mathbb {N}}$$

d
∈
N

, the d-distance domination number $$\gamma ^d(G)$$

γ
d

(
G
)

of G is the minimum cardinality of a set S of vertices of G such that every vertex of G is at distance at most d from some vertex of S. As an application of a generalisation of the above result on the connected domination number, we prove an upper bound on the oriented diameter of the form $$(2d+1)(d+1)\gamma ^d(G)+ O(d)$$

(
2
d
+
1
)

(
d
+
1
)

γ
d

(
G
)

+
O

(
d
)

. Furthermore, we construct bridgeless graphs whose oriented diameter is at least $$(d+1)^2 \gamma ^d(G) +O(d)$$

(
d
+
1
)

2

γ
d

(
G
)

+
O

(
d
)

, thus demonstrating that our above bound is best possible apart from a factor of about 2.
Drought projections for the NW Iberian Peninsula under climate change
Authors: Alvarez I. , Pereira H. , Lorenzo M. N. , Picado A. , Sousa M. C. , Taboada J. J. , Dias J. M.
Published: January 2024

Drought can be considered an atmospheric condition, which rapidly goes beyond to affect multiple fields of the environment and human activities. The persistence of these atmospheric conditions can affect the recharge of surface and groundwater bodies due to a decrease in the volume of runoff and seepage, thus affecting human and environmental activities. In this context, the main aim of this work is to characterize the occurrence and variability of future droughts in Galicia over the twenty-first century. The methodology followed is based on the calculation and analysis of the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) in three-time scales (3, 6, and 12 months), using daily outputs of precipitation data from one RCM provided by the EURO-CORDEX project for different periods (reference from 1971 to 2005, and future from 2025 to 2060 and 2061 to 2096) and scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5). Using SPI-3, SPI-6, and SPI-12 projections, drought trends and potential changes in their characteristics were explored under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. In both scenarios, throughout the twenty-first century, a decreasing trend in SPI indicates an intensification of drought conditions over Galicia. Moreover, at the beginning of the century, under RCP 4.5, drought events will increase and will be slightly more intense but less persistent, while under RCP 8.5, the number of events will be almost the same, but shorter and less severe. Toward the end of the century, drought events are expected to be more numerous, less durable, and more intense under both scenarios.
Nomogram for predicting the overall survival and cancer-specific survival of patients with intraductal carcinoma of the prostate
Authors: Cui Yongqiang , Lin Junyang , Sun Dingqi , Zhang Hui , Diao Tongxiang , Fu Qiang
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Intraductal carcinoma of the prostate (IDC-P) is a histological subtype that differs from conventional acinar adenocarcinoma in terms of its origin, appearance, and pathological features. For IDC-P, there is currently no recognized best course of action, and its prognosis is unclear. The goal of this study is to analyze independent prognostic factors in IDC-P patients and to develop and validate a nomogram to predict overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS).

Methods

Clinical data for IDC-P patients were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. To identify the independent variables influencing prognosis, multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed. A nomogram model was created utilizing these variables after comparing the variations in OS and CSS among various subgroups using Kaplan‒Meier curves. Internal validation of the nomograms was verified using the bootstrap resampling method.

Results

The study included 280 IDC-P patients in total. Marital status, summary stage, grade, and the presence of lung metastases were significant factors impacting OS, and CSS was significantly influenced by marital status, summary stage, AJCC stage, the presence of lung metastases, the presence of bone metastases, and PSA according to univariate and multivariate Cox regression models (P < 0.05). Nomogram models were created to estimate OS and CSS using these parameters. The OS prediction model’s C-index was 0.744, whereas the CSS prediction model’s C-index was 0.831.

Conclusion

We developed and verified nomogram models for the prediction of 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS and CSS in patients with IDC-P. These nomograms serve as a resource for evaluating patient prognosis, therapy, and diagnosis, ultimately improving clinical decision-making accuracy.
Concordance of assessments of four PD-L1 immunohistochemical assays in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC)
Authors: Wang Xinran , He Jiankun , Li Jinze , Wu Chun , Yue Meng , Niu Shuyao , Jia Ying , Jia Zhanli , Cai Lijing , Liu Yueping
Published: January 2024

Objective

Given real-world limitations in programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) testing, concordance studies between PD-L1 assays are needed. We undertook comparisons of PD-L1 assays (DAKO22C3, Ventana SP263, Ventana SP142, E1L3N) among observers in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) to provide information on the analytical and clinical comparability of four PD-L1 IHC assays.

Methods

Paraffin embedded samples of 50 cases of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma were obtained, satined with all four PD-L1 assays. PD-L1 was evaluated by 68 pathologists from 19 different hospitals. PD-L1 expression was assessed for combined positive score (CPS).

Results

The expression sensitivity of SP263 was the highest in ESCC, followed by 22C3, E1L3N and SP142. Taking CPS 10 as the critical value, inter-observer concordance for CPS scores among 68 physicians was assessed for the 22C3, SP263, SP142, and E1L3N assays, yielding values of 0.777, 0.790, 0.758, and 0.782, respectively. In the comparison between assays, the overall CPS scores concordance rates between 22C3 and SP263, SP142, and E1L3N were 0.896, 0.833, and 0.853, respectively. 22C3 and SP263 have high concordance, with OPA of 0.896, while E1L3N and SP142 have the highest concordance, with OPA of 0.908.

Conclusion

In ESCC, the concordance of PD-L1 evaluation among observers is good, and the immune cell score is still an important factor affecting the concordance of interpretation among observers. Cases near the specific threshold are still the difficult problem of interpretation. SP263 had the highest CPS score of the four assays. SP263 cannot identify all 22C3 positive cases, but had good concordance with 22C3.E1L3N and SP142 showed high concordance.
A parsimonious, computationally efficient machine learning method for spatial regression
Authors: Žukovič Milan , Hristopulos Dionissios T.
Published: January 2024

We introduce the modified planar rotator method (MPRS), a physically inspired machine learning method for spatial/temporal regression. MPRS is a non-parametric model which incorporates spatial or temporal correlations via short-range, distance-dependent “interactions” without assuming a specific form for the underlying probability distribution. Predictions are obtained by means of a fully autonomous learning algorithm which employs equilibrium conditional Monte Carlo simulations. MPRS is able to handle scattered data and arbitrary spatial dimensions. We report tests on various synthetic and real-word data in one, two and three dimensions which demonstrate that the MPRS prediction performance (without hyperparameter tuning) is competitive with standard interpolation methods such as ordinary kriging and inverse distance weighting. MPRS is a particularly effective gap-filling method for rough and non-Gaussian data (e.g., daily precipitation time series). MPRS shows superior computational efficiency and scalability for large samples. Massive datasets involving millions of nodes can be processed in a few seconds on a standard personal computer. We also present evidence that MPRS, by avoiding the Gaussian assumption, provides more reliable prediction intervals than kriging for highly skewed distributions.
Degenerate stability of the Caffarelli–Kohn–Nirenberg inequality along the Felli–Schneider curve
Authors: Frank Rupert L. , Peteranderl Jonas W.
Published: January 2024

We show that the Caffarelli–Kohn–Nirenberg (CKN) inequality holds with a remainder term that is quartic in the distance to the set of optimizers for the full parameter range of the Felli–Schneider (FS) curve. The fourth power is best possible. This is due to the presence of non-trivial zero modes of the Hessian of the deficit functional along the FS-curve. Following an iterated Bianchi–Egnell strategy, the heart of our proof is verifying a ‘secondary non-degeneracy condition’. Our result completes the stability analysis for the CKN-inequality to leading order started by Wei and Wu. Moreover, it is the first instance of degenerate stability for non-constant optimizers and for a non-compact domain.
Disposition effect and its outcome on endogenous price fluctuations
Authors: Cafferata Alessia , Patacca Marco , Tramontana Fabio
Published: January 2024

We have developed a financial market model that incorporates the Disposition Effect, which refers to traders’ tendency to avoid realizing losses. Specifically, our model replicates several stylized facts commonly observed in financial markets, such as fat tails and volatility clustering. These market characteristics can be attributed to the Disposition Effect, especially when the trading behavior of agents aligns with the findings of Ben-David and Hirshleifer (Rev Financ Stud 25(8):2485–2532, 2012). To demonstrate this, we examine two versions of the model: one where a class of agents exhibits a high degree of Disposition Effect and another where traders are not influenced by it. By comparing the simulated time series generated by both versions, we find that the one with agents affected by the Disposition Effect better replicates the features observed in real financial markets. This holds true for both the deterministic and stochastic versions of the model.
Ascites fluid calprotectin level is highly accurate in diagnosing spontaneous bacterial peritonitis: a preliminary proof of concept prospective study
Authors: Sbeit Wisam , Maamoun Basheer , Azzam Subhi , Shahin Amir , Carmiel-Haggai Michal , Khoury Tawfik
Published: January 2024

Ascites is the most common complication of liver cirrhosis. Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common complication of ascites. The diagnosis is made by an ascitic fluid polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell count of ≥ 250/mm3. However, no other diagnostic test is present for the diagnosis of SBP. The aim of the study present study is to assess the diagnostic yield of ascitic calprotectin in SBP, and to explore whether it can predict disease stage. We performed a single center proof-of-concept prospective study including all patients with cirrhosis and ascites who underwent paracentesis. Overall, 31 patients were included in the study. Eight patients had SBP vs. 23 patients without SBP. Ascitic calprotectin level was 77.4 ± 86.5 μg/mL in the SBP group, as compared to 16.1 ± 5.6 μg/mL in the non-SBP group (P = 0.001). An ascitic calprotectin cut-off value of > 21 μg/mL was associated with sensitivity and specificity of 85.7% and 89.5%, respectively, with ROC of 0.947 (95% CI 0.783 to 0.997, P < 0.0001). Notably, ascitic calprotectin did not had a prognostic value in cirrhosis stage and prognosis. Ascitic calprotectin was highly accurate in the diagnosis of SBP. It can be a serve as adjunct for indefinite cases of SBP.
Critical roles of tubular mitochondrial ATP synthase dysfunction in maleic acid-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Lin Hugo Y.-H. , Liang Chan-Jung , Yang Ming-Yu , Chen Phang-Lang , Wang Tzu-Ming , Chen Yen-Hua , Shih Yao-Hsiang , Liu Wangta , Chiu Chien-Chih , Chiang Chih-Kang , Lin Chang-Shen , Lin Han-Chen
Published: January 2024

Maleic acid (MA) induces renal tubular cell dysfunction directed to acute kidney injury (AKI). AKI is an increasing global health burden due to its association with mortality and morbidity. However, targeted therapy for AKI is lacking. Previously, we determined mitochondrial-associated proteins are MA-induced AKI affinity proteins. We hypothesized that mitochondrial dysfunction in tubular epithelial cells plays a critical role in AKI. In vivo and in vitro systems have been used to test this hypothesis. For the in vivo model, C57BL/6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with 400 mg/kg body weight MA. For the in vitro model, HK-2 human proximal tubular epithelial cells were treated with 2 mM or 5 mM MA for 24 h. AKI can be induced by administration of MA. In the mice injected with MA, the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine in the sera were significantly increased (p < 0.005). From the pathological analysis, MA-induced AKI aggravated renal tubular injuries, increased kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) expression and caused renal tubular cell apoptosis. At the cellular level, mitochondrial dysfunction was found with increasing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) (p < 0.001), uncoupled mitochondrial respiration with decreasing electron transfer system activity (p < 0.001), and decreasing ATP production (p < 0.05). Under transmission electron microscope (TEM) examination, the cristae formation of mitochondria was defective in MA-induced AKI. To unveil the potential target in mitochondria, gene expression analysis revealed a significantly lower level of ATPase6 (p < 0.001). Renal mitochondrial protein levels of ATP subunits 5A1 and 5C1 (p < 0.05) were significantly decreased, as confirmed by protein analysis. Our study demonstrated that dysfunction of mitochondria resulting from altered expression of ATP synthase in renal tubular cells is associated with MA-induced AKI. This finding provides a potential novel target to develop new strategies for better prevention and treatment of MA-induced AKI.
What Mental Health and Wellbeing Interventions Work for Which Children and Young People in Care? Systematic Review of Potential Outcome Inequities
Authors: Evans Rhiannon , Trubey Rob , MacDonald Sarah , Noyes Jane , Robling Michael , Willis Simone , Boffey Maria , Wooders Charlotte , Vinnicombe Soo , Melendez-Torres G. J.
Published: January 2024

Children and young people with care-experience (e.g. foster, kinship and residential care) report poorer mental health and wellbeing than the general population. Despite an emerging evidence-base for intervention, it is not clear if current approaches create, exacerbate or mitigate outcome inequities between different types of participants. We conducted a systematic review of international interventions targeting mental health, subjective wellbeing and suicide-related outcomes amongst care-experienced children and young people aged up to 25 years old. The review included a narrative synthesis of intervention inequities, exploring if they were more or less effective for different participant groups. Eight interventions, with 14 study reports, presented relevant data. Overall, there was no clear evidence that intervention participation could lead to inequitable impacts, being more or less effective for different groups. However, there was some tentative indication that individuals with lower exposure to maltreatment, fewer care placements, and increased baseline mental health problems, might be more responsive to intervention than other participants. There was limited evidence for wellbeing and no data availability for suicide. Future intervention evaluation should focus on assessing if there is potential to create, sustain or exacerbate inequities, and how approaches may be designed to mitigate this risk.
Production of derivatives from wheat straw as reinforcement material for paper produced from secondary fibers
Authors: Serrano Iciar , Afailal Zainab , Sánchez-Paniagua Naiara , González Pablo , Bautista Ana , Gil-Lalaguna Noemí , Gonzalo Alberto , Arauzo Jesús , Crespo Cristina , Sánchez Jose Luís
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, a high percentage (> 50%) of the paper produced in Europe uses recovered paper (secondary fibers) as raw material. In order to improve the mechanical properties of the paper produced, different kinds of additives are usually incorporated into the paper. Emerging renewable materials based on agricultural or forest residues, such as cellulose nanomaterials, have recently proved good capacities as reinforcing agents for different applications. In this work, pulp from wheat straw with a content of cellulose nanomaterial has been produced and tested as a mechanical reinforcing agent for paper production. A soda semi-chemical process was applied for the delignification of straw, to produce pulp with high cellulose content. Posteriorly, pulps with cellulose nanofibers were obtained in a high-pressure homogenizer, applying three different pretreatments to the cellulose pulp (acid hydrolysis, enzymatic hydrolysis and thermal treatment with glycerol) in order to facilitate the obtention of cellulose nanomaterial. Handsheets of paper were prepared from two sources of secondary fiber (fluting paper and old corrugated containers), adding different percentages of wheat straw derivatives (0, 3.5, 5 and 7%). The fibers' morphology and the papers' mechanical properties were investigated. Noticeable improvement rates (up to 25%) were observed for some mechanical properties of paper containing nanocellulose produced after the enzymatic and acid pretreatments. The quality of the secondary fibers source also affected the improvement rates achieved, with higher percentage changes for the lower-quality recycled paper.
Clinical applications of circulating tumor cells in patients with solid tumors
Authors: Smit Daniel J. , Schneegans Svenja , Pantel Klaus
Published: January 2024

The concept of liquid biopsy analysis has been established more than a decade ago. Since the establishment of the term, tremendous advances have been achieved and plenty of methods as well as analytes have been investigated in basic research as well in clinical trials. Liquid biopsy refers to a body fluid-based biopsy that is minimal-invasive, and most importantly, allows dense monitoring of tumor responses by sequential blood sampling. Blood is the most important analyte for liquid biopsy analyses, providing an easily accessible source for a plethora of cells, cell-derived products, free nucleic acids, proteins as well as vesicles. More than 12,000 publications are listed in PubMed as of today including the term liquid biopsy. In this manuscript, we critically review the current implications of liquid biopsy, with special focus on circulating tumor cells, and describe the hurdles that need to be addressed before liquid biopsy can be implemented in clinical standard of care guidelines.