bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moving from a registry to a learning health system: A case study of a Dutch prostate cancer registry
Authors: Belleman Tom , van Wijngaarden Jeroen D. H. , Kuppen Malou C. P. , de Groot Saskia , van der Velden Kim J. M. , Bosch Dianne , van Oort Inge M. , Uyl‐de Groot Carin A. , van Deen Welmoed K.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Learning health systems (LHSs) are systems that seamlessly embed continuous quality improvement based on real‐world data. To establish LHSs, several infrastructures need to be in place. Registries already have part(s) of this infrastructure and could therefore be leveraged to establish LHSs. This study aims to identify key factors facilitating the transition of registries into LHS to support continuous learning from real‐world data.

Methods

Eleven interviews with 12 stakeholders, including medical specialists and nonmedical stakeholders, were conducted in the context of a prostate cancer registry. Findings were coded deductively based on seven previously identified facilitators for learning: complexity, relative advantage, compatibility, credibility, social impact, actionability, and resource match. These facilitators cover technical, social, and organizational aspects. An inductive phase followed to pinpoint factors for continuous learning and LHSs. Subsequently, two focus groups were conducted to ensure accurate interpretation of findings, and five expert panels to provide additional context.

Results

Complexity within healthcare systems emerged as a significant challenge, attributed to multiple stakeholders and the rapidly changing healthcare landscape. The advantage of LHSs is the timely availability of population‐based data for real‐time care adjustments. Compatibility of the system with stakeholders' needs was considered pivotal requiring a relatively flexible infrastructure. Credibility of data and results was supported by creating transparent processes in which stakeholders could review data from their own patient population. Social influences, including interpersonal trust and engaged leadership, fostered collaboration within LHSs. Actionability of the findings and resource match were vital for knowledge translation and sustainability.

Conclusion

Our findings provide practical recommendations to support registries in transitioning towards LHSs by leveraging and expanding their infrastructure for continuous learning. We identified technical, interpersonal, and organizational factors that facilitate continuous and rapid learning using real‐world data, create transparent and collaborative infrastructures, and help to navigate the complexity of the healthcare system.
A Versatile Nonconventional Luminescent Material Based on Quaternary Ammonium Chitosan for Sodium Chlorite Detection and Cell Imaging
Authors: Jiang Chenjie , Mei Chanming , Zou Linmin , Gong Yongyang
Published: January 2025

Nonconventional luminescent materials (NLMs) lacking extended π‐conjugated systems present a burgeoning field with vast potential applications in cell image, and chemical sensing. This work explores the synthesis, characterization, and promising applications of a novel NLM quaternary ammonium chitosan (QCS), in bioimaging and selective chemical sensing where solutions exhibit remarkable tunability in their photophysical properties, influenced by concentration, excitation wavelength, and temperature. Notably, applying static pressure to the solid sample significantly enhances its luminous efficiency, rising from 2.15% to 2.59%, inducing a redshift in emission, emission shifting from 436 to 452 nm after the force action. Furthermore, QCS demonstrates a highly specific fluorescent response toward sodium chlorite (NaClO₂) with negligible interference from common cations and anions. The detection limit for NaClO₂ reaches a low 0.297 mg L−1, highlighting its potential for practical applications. Additionally, QCS exhibits excellent biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity, making it a compelling candidate for cellular imaging.
Sampling in Shift‐Invariant Spaces Generated by Hilbert Space‐Valued Functions
Authors: Hasan Ali Biswas Md , Joy Rohan , Krahmer Felix , Radha Ramakrishnan
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we investigate the problem of sampling and reconstruction in principal shift‐invariant spaces generated by Hilbert space‐valued functions. Given any signal and data point , the sample is stored along a sequence of directions . Specifically, the inner products are stored. First, we define what we mean by a stable set of sampling and provide equivalent conditions for proving that a given set is a stable set of sampling. We then present a reconstruction formula for from its integer samples . Finally, we address the cases of perturbed and irregular sampling, examining their impact on the reconstruction process.
Motivators and Barriers to Seeking Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Among Adolescents: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Allicock Marlyn A. , Francis Jackson M. , Braxton Rashon , Polavarapu Dhatri , Misserian Maral , Mathew M. Sunil , Wheelington Alicia , Cartwright Bethany R. , Qureshi Faisal G. , Barlow Sarah E. , Messiah Sarah E.
Published: January 2025

Background

The prevalence of severe obesity among adolescents has increased the use of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) as a therapeutic option. Understanding factors influencing adolescent MBS choice and the support needed to undergo MBS is crucial for improving health outcomes. This study examines the motivations and support needs of a diverse sample of adolescents seeking MBS via the patient voice.

Methods

Adolescents (n = 14) at a weight loss surgery clinic in a large academic healthcare system participated in qualitative interviews. Of the participants, 10 were female, 6 were non‐Hispanic Black, 3 were non‐Hispanic White, and 5 were Hispanic. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.

Results

Three themes emerged: Intrinsic motivators, extrinsic motivators, and barriers. Intrinsic motivators include personal physical and mental health goals. Extrinsic motivators involved family and medical team support, which provided encouragement, validation, and perceived confidence for lifestyle changes. Additionally, observing family members who previously completed MBS was a significant extrinsic motivator. Concerns included fear of dying/complications from MBS, and possible weight regain post‐MBS.

Conclusion

Adolescent MBS programs should enhance intrinsic motivation for behavior changes. Findings highlight opportunities for bolstering support pre‐ and post‐MBS and addressing MBS‐related anxieties related to long‐term weight management.
Enhancing Small‐for‐Gestational‐Age Prediction: Multi‐Country Validation of Nuchal Thickness, Estimated Fetal Weight, and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Deng Jiaxuan , Naresh Sethi Neha Sethi A/P. , Ahmad Kamar Azanna , Saaid Rahmah , Loo Chu Kiong , Mattar Citra Nurfarah Zaini , Jalil Nurul Syazwani , Saw Shier Nee
Published: January 2025

Objective

The first objective is to develop a nuchal thickness reference chart. The second objective is to compare rule‐based algorithms and machine learning models in predicting small‐for‐gestational‐age infants.

Method

This retrospective study involved singleton pregnancies at University Malaya Medical Centre, Malaysia, developed a nuchal thickness chart and evaluated its predictive value for small‐for‐gestational‐age using Malaysian and Singapore cohorts. Predictive performance using conjunctive (AND)/disjunctive (OR) rule‐based algorithms was assessed. Seven machine learning models were trained on Malaysia data and evaluated on both Malaysia and Singapore cohorts.

Results

5519 samples were collected from the University Malaya Medical Centre. Small‐for‐gestational‐age infants exhibit significantly lower nuchal thickness (small‐for‐gestational‐age: 4.57 [1.04] mm, appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age: 4.86 [1.06] mm, p < 0.001). Implementing disjunctive rule (nuchal thickness < 10th centile or estimated fetal weight < 10th centile) significantly improved small‐for‐gestational‐age prediction across all growth charts, with balanced accuracy gains of 5.83% in Malaysia (p < 0.05) and 7.75% in Singapore. The best model for predicting small‐for‐gestational‐age was: logistic regression with five variables (abdominal circumference, femur length, nuchal thickness, maternal age, and ultrasound‐confirmed gestational age), which achieved an area under the curve of 0.75 for Malaysia cohorts; support vector machine with all variables, achieved area under the curve of 0.81 for Singapore cohorts.

Conclusions

Small‐for‐gestational‐age infants demonstrate significantly reduced second‐trimester nuchal thickness. Employing the disjunctive rule enhanced small‐for‐gestational‐age prediction. Logistic regression and support vector machines show superior performance among all models, highlighting the advantages of machine learning. Larger prospective studies are needed to assess clinical utility.
Arbuscular mycorrhiza in the urban jungle: Glomeromycotina communities of the dominant city tree across Amsterdam
Authors: Verbeek Casper T. , Gomes Sofia I. F. , Merckx Vincent S. T. F.
Published: January 2025

Societal Impact Statement

Trees in cities provide a great number of benefits to people and nature, but they are challenged by harsh conditions. Trees rely on helpful fungi in their roots to get essential nutrients from the soil, but we do not know which of these fungi are resistant to city landscapes. By studying these fungi, we can learn how their communities are affected by cities and which of them survive best there. Understanding this can help us develop effective ways to make use of these microbes or to improve city conditions for the benefit of urban trees and their fungi and, therefore, us.

Urban trees are important green features in cities. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in roots may alleviate urban environmental pressures affecting urban trees. These pressures also appear detrimental for AMF, reducing root colonization rates, spore production and spore diversity. However, a limited number of molecular studies on urban AMF contrast these findings, but the matter remains unresolved. Therefore, we investigated the hitherto understudied AMF communities in the roots of urban trees, their diversity, spatial and neighbouring‐tree effects and interaction networks.

We did this by metabarcoding fungi from tree roots across an urbanization gradient in Amsterdam (the Netherlands), focussing on Dutch elm (Ulmus x hollandica). Samples were collected from three urbanization classes, differentiated by the degree of soil sealing and management: an urban forest, park and street. In the urban forest and park, root samples were collected in a grid, allowing the construction of interaction networks and assessment of neighbouring‐tree root effects, whereas the street trees stood in solitary pits.

Using the ITS2 barcode, we detect distinct, diverse and heterogenous AMF communities. The (phylogenetic) diversity of AMF increased with urbanization. Contrary to our expectations, we found no evidence that AMF communities in street trees were more spatially homogenous. Moreover, neighbouring root diversity did not appear to affect AMF diversity.

Our findings suggest a strong response of AMF communities to urbanization. An urban‐induced change in mycorrhizal partners, rather than a loss of partners and interaction complexity, demonstrates the high adaptability of the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis to urban stressors, which has important management implications.
Screening for Predictive Factors of Efficacy of Second‐Generation Androgen Receptor Axis‐Targeted Agents in Patients With High‐Risk Metastatic Hormone‐Sensitive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ueda Takashi , Hayakawa Keita , Horiguchi Go , Murashita Junki , Shiraishi Takumi , Fujimoto Saizo , Miyashita Masatsugu , Saito Yumiko , Gabata Yusuke , Sako Satoshi , Takahashi Hikaru , Fujihara Atsuko , Minami Takafumi , Yamamoto Yutaka , Okumi Masayoshi , Hongo Fumiya , Okihara Koji , Fujita Kazutoshi , Ukimura Osamu
Published: January 2025

Background

Differences in the effectiveness of second‐generation androgen receptor axis‐targeted agents (ARATs) in high‐risk metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) remain unclear. This study aimed to identify the factors influencing the efficacy of ARATs in patients with high‐risk mHSPC and compare their long‐term effectiveness.

Methods

Four hundred and sixty‐six patients with mHSPC treated with ARATs were retrospectively recruited from our hospital and affiliated hospitals of the Kindai Oncology Study Group and Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine Oncology Study Group between December 2013 and March 2024. Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors for overall survival in patients with mHSPC. Propensity score matching was used to adjust for the differences in clinical backgrounds of the patients.

Results

Univariate and multivariable analyses revealed that Gleason pattern 5 and pretreatment ALP levels were notable prognostic factors for overall survival in patients with mHSPC treated with ARATs. In the subgroup of patients with high‐risk mHSPC with Gleason pattern 5, apalutamide and enzalutamide showed significantly better outcomes in terms of PSA‐PFS, PFS2, and overall survival compared to abiraterone acetate though selection bias and the small number of patients may be associated with the results in this study. Univariate and multivariable analyses suggested that ARATs selection (ABI vs. APA or ENZ) may serve as an independent predictor of overall survival in patients with high‐risk mHSPC with Gleason pattern 5 treated with ARATs.

Conclusion

Gleason pattern 5 may be a predictive factor for ARAT efficacy in patients with high‐risk mHSPCs.
trans‐2‐Octenal controls Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, the causal agent of tomato wilt in vitro, in soil and in the field
Authors: Liarzi Orna , Golani Ma'ayan , Magnus Amnon , Levi‐Ruso Ganit , Ewenson Ariel , Benyamini Yuval , Ezra David
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Fungal plant diseases cause major crop losses. Phytopathogenic fungi's ability to evolve resistance to fungicides, alongside ongoing prohibition of such agents by the European Commission because of their pronounced adverse effects on human health and the environment, make their control a challenge. Moreover, the development of less perilous fungicides is a complex task. Here we describe the process and challenges involved in the development of a novel fungicide, from in‐vitro studies to field experiments.

RESULTS

In‐vitro experiments with trans‐2‐octenal, a bioactive compound secreted by the endophytic fungus Daldinia cf. concentrica, revealed its ability to fully inhibit and kill phytopathogenic microorganisms. A formulated version of trans‐2‐octenal was then used against the soil‐borne pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Forl), the causal agent of tomato vascular wilt disease, in pot experiments with different soil types. We found the highest fungicidal activity in sandy and loam soils, whereas heavy soil impaired activity. Lastly, we investigated the activity of the formulated trans‐2‐octenal against Forl in semi‐field experiments. We achieved complete elimination of Forl, provided the soil is rotavated after trans‐2‐octenal application.

CONCLUSION

trans‐2‐Octenal has the potential to control Forl in vitro, in pots and in the field. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fully Distributed Cooperative Output Regulation of Heterogeneous Periodic Linear Multi‐Agent Systems With Input Saturation
Authors: Feng Zhanpeng , Zhang Kai , Jiang Huaiyuan , Zhou Bin
Published: January 2025

This article delves into the cooperative output regulation of heterogeneous continuous‐time periodic linear multi‐agent systems with input saturation under undirected graphs. Leveraging characteristics inherent in the parametric differential Lyapunov equation and cooperative output regulation theory, we formulate an observer‐based protocol. Specifically, we design distributed state observers for both the leader and followers, aiming to estimate the leader state and the follower state itself, respectively. Utilizing these estimated states, we propose a class of fully distributed observer‐based protocols to address the considered problem. In addition, we make an extension to the reduced‐order observer‐based form. The most distinguishing contributions of our proposed protocols, in contrast to existing literature, lie in the fact that the considered dynamics of each agent are time‐varying and have input saturation constraints. Notably, our protocols eliminate the need for global information of the network, operating in a fully distributed method. Finally, we apply the proposed control protocol to the multi‐spacecraft elliptical orbit rendezvous problem.
Punica granatum L. Peel: Anticancer Activity on Hep3B, Drug‐likeness, ADMET Prediction, and Molecular Docking with EGFR‐TK
Authors: Danjolli‐Hashani Dua , Isbilir Sebnem Selen , Yılmaz Ayşen Şuekinci
Published: January 2025

The side effects of the cancer treatment medications that have sparked renewed interest in herbal formulation research. Due to its high phytochemical content, Punica granatum L. (different parts of pomegranate), a basic traditional medicine source, is an excellent option for the anticancer research. In this study, the anticancer activity of Punica granatum L. (Hicaz variety) peel extract on the Hep3B cell line was determined by the MTT test. The results showed that P. granatum L. peel extract showed a cytotoxic effect on the Hep3B cell line (cancer) but no effect on the AML12 cell line (healthy). To explain the anticancer effect, the main bioactive components of P. granatum L. peel, which are ellagic acid, abscisic acid, ethyl gallate, phlorizin, gallic acid, and myricetin, were performed in a docking study with the EGFR‐TK (PDB ID: 1M17). The docking poses showed that all selected compounds that bind to the same site as the EGFR‐TK inhibitor erlotinib, while ellagic acid (−8.8 kcal/mol), myricetin (−8.9 kcal/mol), and phlorizin (−8.7 kcal/mol) have lower binding energy. Also, drug similarity, physicochemical, and ADMET properties of these selected phenolic compounds were evaluated. All results indicated that P. granatum L. peel could be a potential therapeutic candidate against liver cancer.
Biosynthesis and Characterization of Cefazolin‐Loaded Magnesium Oxide/Polyethylene Glycol Nanocomposites: Antimicrobial Efficacy, Anticoagulant Potential, and In Vivo Toxicity Studies
Authors: Mohammed Hamdi Ali , Laouini Salah Eddine , Meneceur Souhaila , Azzi Manel , Salmi Chaima , Hasan Gamil Gamal , Bouafia Abderrhmane , Al‐Lohedan Hamad A. , Abdullah Mahmood M. S. , Al‐Essa Khansaa , Abdullah Johar Amin Ahmed
Published: January 2025

The pursuit of environmentally sustainable and potent antimicrobial agents has spurred the investigation of innovative nanocomposite materials, leading to the development of cefazolin‐loaded magnesium oxide/polyethylene glycol (CFZ@MgO/PEG NC) nanocomposites. This research encompasses the biosynthesis using Laurus nobilis L. extract, resulting in nanocomposites with a size distribution of approximately 35 nm. XRD analysis revealed an average crystallite size of 37 ± 0.9 nm for CFZ@MgO/PEG NC. The antibacterial efficacy demonstrated dose‐dependent inhibition zones, with CFZ@MgO/PEG NC achieving zones of inhibition of 19 mm, 14.5 mm, and 14 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, at 5 mM concentration. In vivo toxicity studies in albino rats indicated dose‐dependent changes in biochemical parameters, such as an increase in urea levels to 0.75 ± 0.12 mmol/L and creatinine levels to 5.55 ± 0.3 µmol/L at 400 µg/mL dosage. The MgO/PEG NC exhibited notable anticoagulant properties, comparable to EDTA, emphasizing its potential for blood coagulation management. These findings highlight CFZ@MgO/PEG NC as a promising antimicrobial and anticoagulant agent, with potential therapeutic applications requiring careful dosage optimization to mitigate toxicity.
Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Piperazine‐7‐Deazapurine Based Thiazolidone Derivatives as Novel ROCK Inhibitors
Authors: Thoota Sandeep Kumar , Maddila Suresh , Pindiprolu Sai Kiran S. S. , Kohli Sukhmeen Kaur , Matsa Sunil Kumar , Gumbi Bhekumuzi , Venigalla Lalu , Almutairi Tahani Mazyad , Islam Mohammad Shahidul
Published: January 2025

In this research journey of exploring ROCK inhibitors, we synthesized a new series of substituted piperazine‐7‐deazapurine‐linked thiazolidone analogs (10a–s) via a five‐step process, and employing sophisticated molecular modeling techniques, optimized the crystal structures of ROCK1 and ROCK2 to evaluate the binding affinities of these compounds. The evaluation of ROCK inhibitory activity demonstrated generally low binding affinities across the series, as reflected in their pIC50 values. Significantly, compound 10h emerged as a potent inhibitor of ROCK1 with an impressive pIC50 value of 6.54. Similarly, compound 10q showed strong inhibitory effects on ROCK2, marked by a pIC50 value of 6.03. Notably compound 10k exhibited a balanced inhibitory on both ROCK isoforms with a pIC50 of 5.24 and 5.31 against ROCK1 and ROCK2 respectively, suggesting its viability for further exploration. This research provides significant insights into the structure activity relationships (SAR) of kinase inhibitors, paving the way for designing more targeted and efficacious therapeutic options for diseases involving ROCK kinases.
Beyond the Score: Exploring the Associations Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Electrophysiological Responses to Errors
Authors: Fisher Madeline , MacPhee Catrina , Lackner Christine
Published: January 2025

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have diverse effects on physical development and mental health. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between the quantity of ACE exposure, type of ACE exposure, and subjective level of stress felt, correlated with event‐related potential activity across the scalp, while controlling for relevant confounding variables. Fifty‐three participants aged 18–32 years completed questionnaires assessing their current mental health, self‐regulation, childhood socioeconomic status, and history of traumatic events. Electroencephalographic activity was recorded while participants completed the Combined Attention Systems Task, a modified flanker task. Using cluster‐corrected robust statistical approaches, significant relationships existed between the total number of ACEs, ACE type, the subjective impact of trauma, and amplitudes during the error‐related negativity (ERN) and error positivity (Pe) at various scalp locations. In the ERN time window, greater error‐correct differences were associated with greater total ACEs, abuse, and other ACEs at C5, P9, and TP10/C1 clusters, respectively. In addition, reduced error‐correct differences at cluster‐maximal C2 during the timing of the Pe were related to experiencing greater numbers of total ACEs while increased error‐correct differences at cluster‐maximal FPz during the timing of the Pe were associated with greater numbers of other ACEs. The subjective impact of total number of ACEs was not associated with error‐correct differences, however, the subjective impact of household dysfunction, abuse, and ‘other’ ACE types were linked to error‐correct differences at various scalp locations and timings. Notably, increased, rather than decreased, subjective impact of household dysfunction was related to greater error‐correct differentiation during the timing of the ERN, maximal at Cz. These results suggest that both ACE type and subjective rating are relevant to future outcomes. The effects extended beyond the ERN—affecting error‐related positivity and later event‐related potentials—indicating associations with the number, type, and subjective impact of ACEs across a larger time window and scalp topography.
Activated Graphite with Richly Oxygenated Surface from Spent Lithium‐Ion Batteries for Microwave Absorption
Authors: Zheng Fangyu , Wu Peikun , Wang Lizhi , Shi Yueli , Jiang Jiangmin , Chen Yaxin , Zhuang Quanchao , Liu Qiangchun , Ju Zhicheng , Kong Xiangkai
Published: January 2025

Designing spent graphite anodes from lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) for applications beyond regenerated batteries offers significant potential for promoting the recycling of spent LIBs. The battery‐grade graphite, characterized by a highly graphitized structure, demonstrates excellent conductive loss capabilities, making it suitable for microwave absorption. During the Li‐ion intercalation and deintercalation processes in battery operation, the surface layer of spent graphite (SG) becomes activated, forming oxygen‐rich functional groups that enhance the polarization loss mechanism. To further control the polarization loss and achieve optimized impedance matching, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is employed as a modifier. Herein, rGO serves as a binder, effectively combining individual SG particles. The matched Fermi levels of SG and rGO reduce the interfacial barrier, facilitating rapid electron transfer. Simultaneously, their combination forms a 3D conduction network, which not only enhances multiple scattering, reflection, and attenuation of electromagnetic waves but also provides abundant polarization centers for increased microwave absorption. As a result, the optimized SG/rGO aerogel achieves an impressive effective absorption bandwidth of 7.04 GHz and accompanied by a minimum reflection loss of −51.1 dB. This study broadens the scope of spent LIBs utilization and provides insights for wilder and more functional applications.
Innovative High‐Entropy Strategy Extending Traditional Metal Substitution for Optimizing Prussian Blue Analogues in Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Zhou Zihao , Dong Yutao , Ma Yuan , Zhang Hehe , Meng Fanbo , Ma Yanjiao , Wu Yuping
Published: January 2025

High‐entropy materials (HEMs) possess unique properties that can be tailored for specific performance characteristics, making them suitable for various battery applications. In particular, HEMs have shown significant promise in enhancing the electrochemical performance of Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) across various battery systems, including sodium‐ion, potassium‐ion, lithium‐sulfur, aqueous zinc‐ion, and aqueous ammonium‐ion batteries. This article examines case studies to explore how the high‐entropy strategy enhances PBA performance. It also provides an overview of traditional metal substitution methods in modifying the two main types of PBAs, that is, Fe‐based and Mn‐based PBA electrode materials. Additionally, other optimization methods, such as defect modulation, surface modification, composite structures, and electrolyte modulation, are also discussed. Finally, the article delves deeply into the relationship between high‐entropy techniques and traditional metal substitution in modifying PBA electrode materials from the perspectives of element design and performance enhancement, aiming to provide comprehensive theoretical guidance for readers.
Pathways to Carbon Neutrality: The Impact of Hydropower, Nuclear Energy, Economic Complexity, Financial Development, and Eco‐Innovation
Authors: Tariq Gulzara , Ding Guoping , Hussain M. Azhar
Published: January 2025

This study investigates how eco‐innovation, economic complexity, hydropower consumption, nuclear energy consumption, foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, economic growth, and financial development affect carbon neutrality in Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) nations. The study illustrates numerous important conclusions by using panel data from 1990 to 2020 and the pooled mean group (PMG) approach: Economic complexity and financial growth show a long‐term tendency to increase carbon neutrality but have the opposite impact in the near term. Hydropower usage and eco‐innovation have consistently increased carbon neutrality in both the long and short term. Nuclear energy utilization decreases carbon neutrality in BRI nations. Carbon neutrality decreases over time with increased FDI inflows but rises in the short run. Carbon neutrality, hydropower use, eco‐innovation, economic complexity, and foreign direct investment all exhibit bidirectional connections. There is unidirectional causation between carbon neutrality, nuclear energy usage, and economic development. Based on these findings, this research suggests the use of ecologically friendly and energy‐efficient technology, as well as prioritizing investments in hydroelectric energy to reduce environmental damage. It also emphasizes the significance of putting in place proactive measures in BRI nations to increase carbon neutrality and promote sustainable development.
Comparison of sample characteristics of Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center participants with the Wisconsin state population—An evaluation of the recruitment effort
Authors: Ma Yue , Mora Pinzon Maria C. , Buckingham William R. , Bersch Andrew J. , Powell W. Ryan , LeCaire Tamara J. , Ennis Gilda E. , Deming Yuetiva , Jonaitis Erin M. , Chin Nathaniel A. , Clark Lindsay R. , Edwards Dorothy F. , Walaszek Art , Okonkwo Ozioma C. , Zuelsdorff Megan , Chappell Richard J. , Johnson Sterling C. , Asthana Sanjay , Gleason Carey E. , Kind Amy J. , Bendlin Barbara B. , Carlsson Cynthia M.
Published: January 2025

INTRODUCTION

Understanding how a research sample compares to the population from which it is drawn can help inform future recruitment planning. We compared the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (WADRC) participant sample to the Wisconsin state population (WI‐pop) on key demographic, social exposome, and vascular risk measures.

METHODS

The WADRC sample included 930 participants. Population statistics were estimated using several national and state data sources. We compared WADRC to WI‐pop for two age groups, 45–64 years and ≥65 years, separately.

RESULTS

Compared to WI‐pop, WADRC participants were older and included more women, more Black and American Indian individuals, and fewer Hispanic and Asian individuals. WADRC participants had higher levels of educational attainment, consisted of smaller proportions living in rural areas and disadvantaged neighborhoods, and showed lower vascular risks. Greater differences between WADRC and WI‐pop were found for most metrics in the ≥65 group compared to the 45–64 group.

DISCUSSION

The findings revealed opportunities to increase enrollment from the Hispanic/Latino and Asian American populations, to include participants from a broader range of educational backgrounds, and to enroll more residents from rural areas and disadvantaged neighborhoods, which may lead to a broader distribution of cardiovascular risk factors. Expanding sociodemographic and health profiles represented in the participant candidate pool for study selection and including those who are underrepresented in research may potentially reduce selection bias but not eliminate it. Statistical approaches can be applied to address bias and generalize findings from a study sample to its target population by adjusting for their differences in the joint distribution of covariates. Although research centers have different regional populations and specific recruitment focuses for scientific reasons, evaluating their participant characteristics may help plan engagement efforts to improve the inclusion of underrepresented groups and collaboratively support generalizable research nationwide.

Highlights

We compared the characteristics of Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (WADRC) participants with the Wisconsin population.

Metrics of comparison included demographics, social exposomes, and vascular risks.

WADRC participants are different from the Wisconsin population.

We explored the implications and causes of the differences.

We discussed strategies for engaging and recruiting underrepresented groups.
The European Union (EU) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)—Fields for Cooperation and Convergence of Interests in the Blue Economy in the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Lukaszuk Tomasz
Published: January 2025

The chapter aims to analyze the activities of the two most prominent regional organizations in the blue economy in the world—EU and ASEAN, finding the similarities and differences in the context of their cooperation opportunities.
Chips on the Deck: US-China Rivalry and Reorganizing the Supply Chains of Semiconductors
Authors: Ryu Yongwook
Published: January 2025

The semiconductor sector is critical for ensuring tech superiority, which will in turn shape the contest for global hegemony and order. Therefore, it is no wonder why the US and China are locked in a contest for chip dominance, for it is the most critical aspect of tech superiority. The US is determined to maintain its tech superiority over China through export controls and the reorganization of the current supply chains of chip production, to curtail China’s tech rise. The US under the Biden administration is utilizing its control over the front end of the supply chains such as softwares, IPs, and design as well as its network of allies and partners, to reduce China’s role in global chip production. In response, China seeks to counter this US pressure by promoting indigenous technologies and self-sufficiency in the chip sector. This chapter analyzes the US-China contest for chip dominance and argues that the contest for chip dominance takes on similar dynamics as an arms race. In this contest China is unlikely to prevail due to the lack of capable partners and its weak standing in the equipment, softwares and IPs segments of chip production.
Polyharmonic Helices
Authors: Montaldo S. , Ratto A.
Published: January 2025

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the existence of Frenet helices which are polyharmonic of order r, shortly, r-harmonic. We shall obtain existence, non-existence and classification results. More specifically, we obtain a complete classification of proper r-harmonic helices into the 3-dimensional solvable Lie group

$$\hbox {Sol}_3$$

Sol
3

. Next, we investigate the existence of proper r-harmonic helices into Bianchi–Cartan–Vranceanu spaces and, in this context, we find new examples. Finally, we shall establish some non-existence results both for Frenet curves and Frenet helices of order

$$n \ge 4$$

n
≥
4

when the ambient space is the Euclidean sphere

$${{\mathbb {S}}}^m$$

S

m

.
Does stereoscopic immersive virtual reality have a significant impact on anatomy education? A literature review
Authors: Chytas Dimitrios , Tsakotos George , Triantafyllou George , Piagkou Maria
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Stereoscopic immersive virtual reality (SIVR) is a technology that fully immerses the user in a digital environment and permits the perception of two different three-dimensional images of a digital object with each of the two eyes. We conducted a literature review to explore to what extent SIVR can significantly contribute to anatomy education.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus, ERIC, and the Cochrane Library for papers investigating the outcomes (effectiveness, perceptions about effectiveness, and side effects) of implementing SIVR in anatomy education.

Results

Eight articles were included. Six examined the effectiveness of the educational intervention, while two papers explored only participants’ perceptions. Those perceptions were positive, but there was a considerably higher frequency of side effects compared with other methods. SSIVR was not significantly more effective than non-stereoscopic delivery, mainly when the users interacted with the virtual environment.

Conclusion

Using SIVR in anatomy education has led to positive participants’ perceptions and notable side effects, while its effectiveness has not been proven higher than non-stereoscopic images, mainly when the users interacted with the digital objects. Future research will further clarify to what extent this technology should be implemented in anatomy education to minimize side effects and maximize its educational potential.
Optimizing remote underwater video sampling to quantify relative abundance, richness, and corallivory rates of reef fish
Authors: Hsu Tsai-Hsuan Tony , Gordon Sophie , Ferrari Renata , Hoey Andrew S. , Figueira Will F.
Published: January 2025

Remote underwater videos (RUVs) are valuable for studying fish assemblages and behaviors, but analyzing them is time-consuming. To effectively extract data from RUVs while minimizing sampling errors, this study developed optimal subsampling strategies for assessing relative abundance, richness, and bite rates of corallivorous fish across eight geographically dispersed reef sites on the Great Barrier Reef and in the Torres Strait. Analyzing 40 frames per 60-min video yielded precise and accurate estimates of the mean number of individuals per frame (i.e., MeanCount), with systematic sampling (one frame every 90 s) proved as effective as or better than random sampling, depending on the survey sites. However, this approach underestimated species richness by ~ 40%, missing the less common species. For estimating bite rates, 30 min or 15 feeding events were optimal, with no significant gains in precision and accuracy with further effort. These strategies enhance data standardization and process efficiency, reducing the time required for MeanCount and bite rate estimates by nine and two times, respectively, compared to full video annotation.
Diverse Digital Responses to Loneliness in Older Adults: A Systematic Review from a Social Work Perspective
Authors: Ruiz-Figueroa Ismael , Minguela Mª Ángeles , Munuera Pilar
Published: January 2025

In an interconnected world, loneliness is paradoxically emerging as a growing threat to health, is associated with an increased likelihood of illness, and is becoming one of the most frequent causes of death among older adults. Experts from various disciplines have identified the pressing need to address this phenomenon and see technology as a powerful ally in facing the challenge. Through technological innovations in communication and connectivity, solutions are being explored to mitigate loneliness and foster social inclusion. This study aims to comprehensively and methodically analyze and systematize previous research on loneliness focusing on the effectiveness of various information and communication technology solutions aimed at mitigating feelings of loneliness in older adults over 65 from a social work perspective. The results confirm that older adults who participate in prevention and/or intervention programs against loneliness supported by information and communication technology report positive differences. However, although levels of loneliness are reduced compared to levels at the beginning of the intervention, they are never eliminated.
Cultivation constrains of Bambara groundnut in Sub-Saharan Africa: Impact of Rhizobial Inoculants
Authors: Amwenyo Maria Lovisa Dhiginina , Horn Lydia N. , Hurek Thomas , Reinhold-Hurek Barbara , Sarkar Abhijit
Published: January 2025

Background

The Sub-Saharan African food system is facing multiple threats, including soil nutrient depletion, monoculture cereal farming, population expansion, and climate change. These factors collectively pose a risk to agricultural productivity and food security in the region.

Scope

Bambara groundnut (BGN) (Vigna subterranea [L.] Verdc) yield has been in decline due to various abiotic factors such as high temperature, drought, and salinity, as well as biotic factors like nitrogen-fixing symbiont host specificity. These challenges have negatively impacted crop productivity and food security. This review highlights the significance of BGN in addressing food insecurity and explores its potential advantages for small-scale farmers. BGN provides a good example for strong effects of the microbiome, particularly specific symbionts for nitrogen-fixing root nodules, on production systems. A focus of this review is to highlight the potential applications of nitrogen-fixing symbionts as biofertilizers for Bambara groundnut.

Conclusion

The review emphasizes the potential of BGN to improve agricultural production and soil fertility, particularly using inoculation technology, which could benefit small-scale farmers and contribute to enhancing food security. Bradyrhizobium inoculants may have to be designed specifically for the cultivar level of BGN.
What is the experimentalist challenge to the method of cases?
Authors: Giraldo Andrés
Published: January 2025

This paper puts forward a new formulation of the experimentalist challenge to the method of cases. Unlike previous attempts to articulate the challenge, the one proposed is based on a clear characterization of the targeted philosophical methodology. The method of cases is explicated as a form of thought experimentation aimed at testing philosophical hypotheses with a distinctive modal force. Given this explication, the empirical evidence gathered by experimental philosophers concerning the instability of case judgments is shown to constitute a stumbling block for the validation of the method as a rational form of hypothesis testing. The experimental challenge is presented as the challenge to compellingly indicate how this stumbling block can be removed, and the method of cases validated as a form of thought experimentation suitable for rationally testing philosophical hypotheses. The challenge, as presented in the text, is shown to be free from all the main criticisms leveled at previous versions of it and as one not yet met.
Cognitive offloading and the causal structure of human action
Authors: Britten-Neish George
Published: January 2025

The hypothesis of extended cognition (HEC) casts human cognition as constitutively dependent on its bodily and environmental context. Drawing on recent empirical work on ‘cognitive offloading’, HEC’s defenders claim that information processing offloaded onto such brain-external resources is sometimes ‘genuinely’ cognitive. But while debates about offloading have a high profile in philosophy of cognitive science, surprisingly little attention has been paid to the fact that paradigm cases of offloading are intentional actions. As a result, opposition to HEC is driven in part by unarticulated intuitions about the metaphysics of human agency. Thinking of action as a kind of interface between separately constituted intentions and bodily movements can make HEC look problematic. But while this view of agency has been popularised – most prominently by Donald Davidson – as analytic philosophy of action’s ‘standard story’, it has come under pressure from philosophers influenced by Elizabeth Anscombe’s very different account. According to this, actions express an agent’s intention only in so far as they fit into the right kind teleologically structured worldly context. In this paper, I’ll argue that HEC’s supporters should adopt an Anscombean model of action. That is, they should understand cognitive offloading as a manifestation of human agency’s general dependence on its bodily and environmental setting.
The anti-senescence effect of D-β-hydroxybutyrate in Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome involves progerin clearance by the activation of the AMPK-mTOR-autophagy pathway
Authors: Monterrubio-Ledezma Feliciano , Salcido-Gómez Ashley , Zavaleta-Vásquez Tania , Navarro-García Fernando , Cisneros Bulmaro , Massieu Lourdes
Published: January 2025

D-β-hydroxybutyrate, BHB, has been previously proposed as an anti-senescent agent in vitro and in vivo in several tissues including vascular smooth muscle. Moreover, BHB derivatives as ketone esters alleviate heart failure. Here, we provide evidence of the potential therapeutic effect of BHB on Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), a rare condition characterized by premature aging and heart failure, caused by the presence of progerin, the aberrant protein derived from LMNA/C gene c.1824C > T mutation. We have assessed several hallmarks of HGPS-senescent phenotype in vitro, such as progerin levels, nuclear morphometric aberrations, nucleolar expansion, cellular senescent morphology, SA-βGal-positive cells, H3K9me3 heterochromatin, γH2AX foci, Lamin B1, p21Waf1/Cip1 and p16CDKN2A abundance, and autophagy. Strikingly, BHB improved nuclear and nucleolar morphometrics, diminished the senescence-phenotype, and unstuck autophagy in HGPS as observed by an enhanced degradation of the cargo protein receptor SQSTM1/p62, suggesting the stimulation of the autophagic flux. Additionally, we observed a decrease in progerin abundance, the cause of senescence in HGPS. Furthermore, compound C, an inhibitor of AMPK, and SBI-0206965, an inhibitor of ULK1/2 and AMPK, which prevent autophagy activation, reversed BHB-induced progerin decline as well as its anti-senescent effect in an AMPK-mTORC1 dependent manner. Altogether, these results suggest that the anti-senescence effect of BHB involves progerin clearance by autophagy activation supporting the potential of BHB for HGPS therapeutics and further preclinical trials.

Graphical Abstract
Lung endothelial cell senescence impairs barrier function and promotes neutrophil adhesion and migration
Authors: Najari Beidokhti Maliheh , Villalba Nuria , Ma Yonggang , Reynolds Amanda , Villamil Juan Hernandez , Yuan Sarah Y.
Published: January 2025

Cellular senescence contributes to inflammation and organ dysfunction during aging. While this process is generally characterized by irreversible cell cycle arrest, its morphological features and functional impacts vary in different cells from various organs. In this study, we examined the expression of multiple senescent markers in the lungs of young and aged humans and mice, as well as in mouse lung endothelial cells cultured with a senescence inducer, suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), or doxorubicin (DOXO). We detected increased levels of p21, γH2AX, and SA-β-Gal and decreased Ki-67 and Lamin B1 in aged lungs and senescent lung endothelial cells. Importantly, the expression of senescent markers was associated with an inflammatory response in aged mouse lungs characterized by neutrophil infiltration, increased expression of intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and decreased protein levels of VE-cadherin and ZO-1. As the latter two are critical constituents of endothelial cell–cell junctions, we hypothesized that their decreased expression could lead to compromised junction barrier integrity. Indeed, senescent endothelial cells (ECs) exhibited impaired barrier properties, as measured by increased permeability to solutes of small size (3-kD) and albumin (70-kD). When co-cultured with neutrophils, senescent ECs and their supernatant promoted neutrophil chemotaxis and trans-endothelial migration. Taken together, our results suggest that lung EC senescence weakens cell–cell junctions, impairs barrier function, and promotes neutrophil adhesion and migration, which may contribute to the development of inflammation and related pathologies in the lungs during aging.