bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Muscle PGC‐1α Overexpression Drives Metabolite Secretion Boosting Subcutaneous Adipocyte Browning
Authors: Miro Caterina , Menale Ciro , Acampora Lucia , Nappi Annarita , Sagliocchi Serena , Restolfer Federica , Torabinejad Sepehr , Stornaiuolo Mariano , Dentice Monica , Cicatiello Annunziata Gaetana
Published: December 2024

Muscle and adipose tissue (AT) are in mutual interaction through the integration of endocrine and biochemical signals, thus regulating whole‐body function and physiology. Besides a traditional view of endocrine relationships that imply the release of cytokines and growth factors, it is becoming increasingly clear that a metabolic network involving metabolites as signal molecules also exists between the two tissues. By elevating the number and functionality of mitochondria, a key role in muscle metabolism is played by the master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis peroxisome‐proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α), that induces a fiber type shift from glycolytic to oxidative myofibers. As a consequence, the upregulation of muscle respiratory rate might affect metabolite production and consumption. However, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we used a muscle‐specific PGC‐1α overexpressing mouse model (MCK‐PGC‐1α) to analyze the metabolite secretion profile of serum and culture medium recovered from MCK‐PGC‐1α muscle fibers by NMR. We revealed modified levels of different metabolites that might be ascribed to the metabolic activation of the skeletal muscle fibers. Notably, the dysregulated levels of these metabolites affected adipocyte differentiation, as well as the browning process in vitro and in vivo. Interestingly such effect was exacerbated in the subcutaneous WAT, while only barely present in the visceral WAT. Our data confirm a prominent role of PGC‐1α as a trigger of mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle and propose a novel function of this master regulator gene in modulating the metabolite production in turn affecting the activation of WAT and its conversion toward the browning.
Risk of Sarcopenia Following Long‐Term Statin Use in Community‐Dwelling Middle‐Aged and Older Adults in Japan
Authors: Huang Shih‐Tsung , Otsuka Rei , Nishita Yukiko , Meng Lin‐Chieh , Hsiao Fei‐Yuan , Shimokata Hiroshi , Chen Liang‐Kung , Arai Hidenori
Published: December 2024

Background

Inconsistent results have been reported concerning the association between statin administration and muscle health, specifically its potential to increase the risk of sarcopenia. Given the widespread long‐term use of statins among the elderly population, the exploration of this association remains a crucial yet insufficiently examined matter. This study aimed to assess the association between the prolonged administration of statins and the risk of sarcopenia, diminished muscle strength, reduced skeletal muscle mass and impaired physical performance.

Methods

This population‐based cohort study was conducted in Japan utilizing data derived from the National Institute for Longevity Sciences‐Longitudinal Study of Aging (NILS‐LSA). The study participants, enlisted from the 2nd to the 6th waves (spanning from April 2000 to July 2010) of NILS‐LSA, were those who aged 40 years or older and had initiated statin therapy (n = 348, age: 64.1 years, female: 63.5%). Individuals who were not administered statins (n = 2559, age: 55.5 years, female: 48.4%) were arbitrarily chosen using a combined approach of propensity score (PS) matching and risk set sampling to form the control group (with a 1:4 matching ratio). The primary outcome of this study was the occurrence of sarcopenia, as defined by the 2019 consensus of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS). The secondary outcomes included low muscle mass (< 7.0 kg/m2 for men and below 5.4 kg/m2 for women by DXA), reduced skeletal muscle strength (handgrip strength < 28 kg in men and < 18 kg in women) and subpar physical performance (6‐min walking speed < 1.0 m/s). The relationship between the use of statins and the outcomes was estimated using a Cox proportional hazard model with time‐varying covariates, which included the status of statin use and other variables (two‐tailed p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant). Stratification based on age and sex, along with five sensitivity analyses—including propensity score overlap weighting and a negative control—was conducted.

Results

After applying PS matching, we identified 342 statin initiators and 1294 non‐statin users, with well‐balanced baseline characteristics between the groups. The use of statins was not associated with an increased risk of incident sarcopenia (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.43 [95% CI, 0.86, 2.36]), diminished muscle strength (aHR, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.80, 1.54]), reduced muscle mass (aHR, 1.09 [95% CI, 0.66, 1.82]) or impaired physical performance (aHR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.46, 1.17]). These findings were consistent across age and sex stratifications, as well as all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Statin use was not associated with an elevated risk of sarcopenia or impaired muscle health among community‐dwelling middle‐aged and older adults in Japan.
The point of no return? Restrictive changes to lenient return policies and consumer reactions to them
Authors: Abdulla Huseyn , Ketzenberg Michael , Abbey James D. , Heim Gregory R.
Published: December 2024

Retailers face a challenging trade‐off in maintaining versus restricting long‐established lenient return policies. On the one hand, lenient return policies have become an important part of retailers' value propositions and play a significant role in stimulating consumer purchases. On the other hand, lenient return policies increase the volume of product returns, which hurts profitability. Motivated by observing an increase in restrictive changes to long‐established lenient return policies, we investigate consumer reactions to such changes and their managerial implications. Through a series of experiments with diverse consumer samples, we find that restrictive changes, such as shortening return time windows or introducing restocking fees, decrease consumer trust in retailers and lead to lowered purchase, positive word‐of‐mouth, and loyalty intentions. We also find that providing managerial transparency, in the form of communicating the rationale for restrictive changes, can attenuate the negative consumer reactions to such changes. Moreover, rationales that emphasize the cost of handling returns versus blaming opportunistic and abusive returners are similarly effective. Our findings contribute to the growing academic literature on consumer return policy design and provide actionable insights to retail managers.
Stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatoses: Histological characterization and review of literature
Authors: Hoffet M. S. , Perruchoud D. L. , Gadaldi K. , Heidemeyer K. , Bossart S. , Borradori L. , Ramelet A. A. , Feldmeyer L.
Published: December 2024

Background

Stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatoses can both manifest as hyperpigmentation, petechiae and/or purpura on the lower extremities, posing a challenge for macroscopic differentiation. We investigated the histological differences in these two conditions.

Objectives

To determine the histological characteristics of stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatosis.

Methods

Skin biopsy specimens were obtained from seven patients with stasis dermatitis, 15 with pigmented purpuric dermatosis, and three control patients. The samples were analysed for histological changes (hematoxylin‐eosin), melanin (silver nitrate), iron, elastic stain, and with an immunohistochemistry for melanocytes (Melan‐A).

Results

The predominant histological features of stasis dermatitis were hemosiderin deposits, eosinophils and telangiectasias. Pigmented purpuric dermatosis was characterized by extensive erythrocyte extravasation, interface changes and spongiosis.

Conclusions

The distinct histological characteristics of stasis dermatitis and pigmented purpuric dermatosis can improve the diagnostic classification of these entities.
Organic alkalinity distributions, characteristics, and application to carbonate system calculations in estuarine and coastal systems
Authors: Hunt Christopher W. , Salisbury Joseph E. , Liu Xuewu , Byrne Robert H.
Published: December 2024

The capacity of aquatic systems to buffer acidification depends on the sum contributions of various chemical species to total alkalinity (TA). Major TA contributors are inorganic, with carbonate and bicarbonate considered the most important. However, growing evidence shows that many rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters contain dissolved organic molecules with charge sites that create organic alkalinity (OrgAlk). This study describes the first comparison of (1) OrgAlk distributions and (2) acid–base properties in contrasting estuary‐plume systems: the Pleasant (Maine, USA) and the St. John (New Brunswick, CA). The substantial concentrations of OrgAlk in each estuary were sometimes not conservative with salinity and typically associated with very low pH. Two approaches to OrgAlk measurement showed consistent differences, indicating acid–base characteristics inconsistent with the TA definition. The OrgAlk fraction of TA ranged from 78% at low salinity to less than 0.4% in the coastal ocean endmember. Modeling of titration data identified three groups of organic charge sites, with mean acid–base dissociation constants (pKa) of 4.2 (± 0.5), 5.9 (± 0.7) and 8.5 (± 0.2). These represented 21% (± 9%), 8% (± 5%), and 71% (± 11%) of titrated organic charge groups. Including OrgAlk, pKa, and titrated organic charge groups in carbonate system calculations improved estimates of pH. However, low and medium salinity, organic‐rich samples demonstrated persistent offsets in calculated pH, even using dissolved inorganic carbon and CO2 partial pressure as inputs. These offsets show the ongoing challenge of carbonate system intercomparisons in organic rich systems whereby new techniques and further investigations are needed to fully account for OrgAlk in TA titrations.
Screening of Inherited Retinal Disease Patients in a Low‐Resource Setting Using an Augmented Next‐Generation Sequencing Panel
Authors: Midgley Nicole , Rebello George , Holtes Lara K. , Ramesar Raj , Roberts Lisa
Published: December 2024

Background

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of disorders affecting millions worldwide. Despite the widespread adoption of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) panels, there remains a critical gap in the genetically diverse and understudied African populations.

Methods

One hundred and thirty‐five South African patients affected by various IRDs underwent NGS using a custom‐targeted panel sequencing over 100 known genes. The panel was supplemented by in silico screening for a MAK‐Alu insertion and screening of seven functionally established deep intronic variants.

Results

Through our combined screening strategy, we obtained a probable genetic diagnosis for 56% of the cohort. We identified 83 unique variants in 29 IRD genes underlying the disease, including 16 putative novel variants. Molecular findings prompted recommendations for clinical re‐examination in ten patients. Resolution rates varied across clinical classifications and population groups.

Conclusions

This study reports the first use of a targeted NGS panel for IRDs in southern Africa, demonstrating a cost‐effective, customisable approach that optimises both diagnostic yield and resource efficiency, making it a valuable tool for IRD molecular characterisation in resource‐limited settings. Augmenting the panel by screening for variants relevant to South African patients allowed us to achieve a resolution rate in line with international studies. Our study underscores the importance of investigating diverse populations to bridge disparities in genomic research and improve diagnostic outcomes for underrepresented population groups.
Mortality Trends and Causes of Death in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 Patients From the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink
Authors: Alsaggaf Rotana , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Pearce Emily E. , Greene Mark H. , Lochmuller Hanns , Gadalla Shahinaz M.
Published: December 2024

Introduction/Aim

Patients with myotonic dystrophy type1 (DM1) have reduced lifespan. This study aimed to quantify mortality risks, and evaluate causes and time trends in DM1.

Methods

We identified 1021 DM1 patients and 15,104 matched DM1‐free controls from the United Kingdom (UK) Clinical Practice Research Datalink. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models to assess differences in all‐cause or cause‐specific mortality between DM1 patients and matched controls, and computed standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for comparisons of DM1 patients with the UK general population.

Results

DM1 patients were at higher risk of death compared with matched DM1‐free controls (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.5–3.4) or the general UK population (SMR = 8.1, 95% CI = 7.3–9.1). The excess risk was primarily attributed to deaths from respiratory failure (HR = 26.7, p < 0.001), aspiration pneumonia (HR = 15.8, p < 0.001), arrythmia, and conduction defects (HR = 15.7, p < 0.001). No mortality risk difference between DM1 patients and matched DM1‐free cohort was noted for all cancers combined (p = 0.52). No significant calendar time‐related changes in overall survival were seen for DM1 patients (p trend = 0.19). In mortality cause‐specific analysis, and compared with patients diagnosed before 1993, death from cancer was on the rise (HR = 2.35, and 5.82 for patients diagnosed 1993–2003, and 2004–2016).

Discussion

Most DM1 patients died of known disease complications. This highlights the need for integrated clinical approaches with more careful and frequent monitoring.
Harmonizing direct and indirect anthropogenic land carbon fluxes indicates a substantial missing sink in the global carbon budget since the early 20th century
Authors: Walker Anthony P. , Obermeier Wolfgang A. , Pongratz Julia , Friedlingstein Pierre , Koven Charles D. , Schwingshackl Clemens , Sitch Stephen , O'Sullivan Michael
Published: December 2024

Societal Impact Statement

The global carbon budget provides annual updates to society on the main cause of climate change—CO2 emissions—and quantifies carbon‐uptake ecosystem services provisioned by the biosphere. We show that more consistent assumptions in the estimates of land‐atmosphere carbon exchange results in a global carbon budget that is imbalanced (gains do not equal losses). This imbalance implies that key processes causing land carbon fluxes, especially processes associated with human land management and recovery following abandonment in anthropogenic biomes (anthromes), have been misquantified. This impacts policy for land carbon management across scales and calls for better understanding of carbon cycling in anthromes.

Inconsistencies in the calculation of the two anthropogenic land flux terms of the global carbon cycle are investigated. The two terms—the direct anthropogenic flux (caused by direct human disturbance in anthromes, currently a carbon source to the atmosphere) and the indirect anthropogenic flux (caused indirectly by human activities that lead to global change and affecting all biomes, currently an atmospheric carbon sink)—are typically calculated independently, resulting in inconsistent underlying assumptions.

We harmonize the estimation of the two anthropogenic land flux terms by incorporating previous estimates of these inconsistencies. We recalculate the global carbon budget (GCB) and apply change‐point analysis to the cumulative budget imbalance.

Cumulative over 1850–2018 (1959–2018), harmonization results in a 13% lesser (4% greater) land use source from anthromes and a 20% (23%) lesser land sink. This recalculation yields a greater non‐closure of the GCB, indicating a missing carbon sink averaging 0.65 Pg C year−1 since the early 20th century. The imbalance likely results from a combination of method discontinuity and structural errors in the assessment of the direct anthropogenic land use flux, greater ocean carbon uptake, structural errors in land models, and in how these land terms are quantified for the budget.

We caution against overconfidence in considering the GCB a solved problem and recommend further study of methodological discontinuities in budget terms. We strongly recommend studies that quantify the direct and indirect anthropogenic land fluxes simultaneously to ensure consistency, with a deeper understanding of human disturbance and legacy effects in anthromes.
Directed Cell Growth of C2C12 Cells on ECM Free Bioprinted Nano/Micro Scaffolds
Authors: Rani Sweta , Das Rahul Kumar , Suryawanshi Tejas , Jaiswal Arun , Majumder Abhijit , Cheng Wenlong , Saxena Sumit , Shukla Shobha
Published: December 2024

Skeletal muscle cell growth impairment can result in severe health issues, such as reduced mobility, metabolic problems, and cardiovascular issues, which can significantly impact an individual's overall health and lifestyle. To address this issue, it is essential to adopt a multi‐faceted approach. Conventional 2D cell culture methods fail to replicate the critical features of in vivo micro/nanoarchitecture, which is crucial for the growth of skeletal muscle cells. In this study, the directed growth of mouse skeletal myoblasts (C2C12) cells on ECM‐free biocompatible scaffolds is demonstrated and fabricated using two‐photon lithography (TPL). These scaffolds are 2D and 3D and have nano/micro‐features derived from chitosan‐based carbon quantum dots (Ch‐CQDs). Ch‐CQDs act as two‐photon initiators for TPL and also provide the scaffolds with adequate mechanical strength and specific binding sites. These scaffolds are biocompatible and can support cellular adhesion and growth without the need for ECM coating. The nano/micro scaffolds mimic the in vivo cellular microenvironment, enabling directed cell growth on ECM‐free surfaces. The fabricated scaffolds have tunable mechanical strength ranging from 0.09 to 0.75 GPa. By using Ch‐CQDs, scaffolds are created that promote cell growth and alignment, which is crucial for skeletal muscle cell growth.
Dynamically Tunable Chiroptical Activities of Flexible Chiral Plasmonic Film via Surface Buckling
Authors: He Yisheng , Meng Xiao , Shen Zhili , Jin Bowen , Chen Xinyi , Ai Bin , Liu Kun , Ye Chunhong
Published: December 2024

Plasmonic nanoparticle‐based chiral materials have attracted great interest due to their strong light‐matter interaction and tunable resonance frequency. However, challenges remain in dynamically modulating the chiroptical activities while maintain strong signals. Here, chiral assemblies of gold nanospheres(AuNSs) are achieved via mechanical‐induced surface buckling of elastic materials, in which linear chain assemblies of AuNSs transform into to 3D “S‐liked” morphology along with the formation of unidirectional wrinkles during buckling. This asymmetrical structure leads to strong chiroptical responses, exhibiting circular dichroism (CD) response over vis–NIR range with signal as high as 2.6 degrees and a g‐factor up to 0.11. Furthermore, the configuration of “S‐liked” assembly is closely associated with the wrinkle shape, which can be tuned through post‐stretching. This method facilitates mechanically induced dynamic and reversible modulation of CD magnitude, as well as switching of signal handedness. Taking advantages of the strong and alterable CD signal, the plasmonic chiral structures demonstrate great potential for multi‐channel and dynamically switchable information encryption as a prototype. The strategy, based on manipulating the surface patterns of soft materials, opens up a new design principle for constructing chiral structure and modulating chiroptical activities in a continuously adjustable manner, advancing the development of chiral optical materials.
Recent Advancements in Electrochemical Sensors Based on MOFs and Their Derivatives
Authors: Hao Xi , Song Weihua , Wang Yinghui , Qin Jieling , Jiang Zhenqi
Published: December 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are composed of metal nodes and organic linkers that can self‐assemble into an infinite network. The high porosity and large surface area of MOFs facilitate the effective enrichment and mass transfer of analytes, which can enhance the signal response and improve the sensitivity of electrochemical sensors. Additionally, MOFs and their derivatives possess the properties of unsaturated metal sites and tunable structures, collectively demonstrating their potential for electrochemical sensing. This paper summarizes the preparation methods, structural properties, and applications of MOFs and their derivatives in electrochemical sensing, emphasizing sensors’ selectivity and sensitivity from the perspectives of direct and indirect detection. Additionally, it also explores future directions and prospects for MOFs in electrochemical sensing, with the aim of overcoming current limitations through innovative approaches.
Recent advances in single fluorescent probes for monitoring dual organelles in two channels
Authors: Yang Xiu‐Zhi , Yao Shankun , Wu Jisong , Diao Jiajie , He Weijiang , Guo Zijian , Chen Yuncong
Published: December 2024

Organelles are specialized areas where cells perform specific processes necessary for life and actively communicate with each other to keep the whole cell functioning. Disorders of the organelle networks are associated with multiple pathological processes. However, clearly and intuitively visualizing the highly dynamic interactions between ultrafine organelles is challenging. Fluorescence imaging technology provides opportunities due to the distinct advantages of facile, non‐invasiveness and dynamic detection, making it particularly well‐suited for applications in uncovering the mysterious veil of organelle interactions. Regrettably, the lack of ideal fluorescence agents has always been an obstacle in imaging the intricate behaviors of organelles. In this review, we provide a systematic discussion on the existing dual‐color and dual‐targetable molecular sensors used in monitoring organelle interactions, with a specific focus on their targeting strategies, imaging mechanisms and biological applications. Additionally, the current limitations and future development directions of dual‐targetable probes and dual‐emissives are briefly discussed. This review aims to provide guidance for researchers to develop more improved probes for studying organelle interactions in the biomedical field.
Trivalent Ionic Molecular Bridges as Efficient Charge‐Trapping Method for All‐Solid‐State Organic Synaptic Transistors toward Neuromorphic Signal Processing Applications
Authors: Kim Taehoon , Lee Woongki , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: December 2024

Achieving high retention of memory state is crucial in artificial synapse devices for neuromorphic computing systems. Of various memorizing methods, a charge‐trapping method provides fast response times when it comes to the smallest size of electrons. Here, for the first time, it is demonstrated that trivalent molecular bridges with three ionic bond sites in the polymeric films can efficiently trap electrons in the organic synaptic transistors (OSTRs). A water‐soluble polymer with sulfonic acid groups, poly(2‐acrylamido‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanesulfonic acid) (PAMPSA), is reacted with melamine (ML) to make trivalent molecular bridges with three ionic bond sites for the application of charge‐trapping and gate‐insulating layer in all‐solid‐state OSTRs. The OSTRs with the PAMPSA:ML layers are operated at low voltages (≤5 V) with pronounced hysteresis and high memory retention characteristics (ML = 25 mol%) and delivered excellent potentiation/depression performances under modulation of gate pulse frequency. The optimized OSTRs could successfully process analog (Morse/Braile) signals to synaptic current datasets for recognition/prediction logics with an accuracy of >95%, supporting strong potential as all‐solid‐state synaptic devices for neuromorphic systems in artificial intelligence applications.
Incorporation and Compensatory Doping Processes of Cu into ZnO Nanowires Investigated at the Local Scale
Authors: Manrique Manuel , Salem Bassem , Sarigiannidou Eirini , Roussel Hervé , Wilhelm Fabrice , Donatini Fabrice , Jacob Véronique , Le Rhun Gwenaël , Consonni Vincent
Published: December 2024

The Cu compensatory doping of ZnO nanowires is of great interest to face the challenge arising from the detrimental screening of the piezoelectric potential generated under mechanical solicitations. However, the incorporation processes of Cu into ZnO nanowires are largely unknown. Here, they are investigated locally by combining mass spectrometry and optical spectroscopy with X‐Ray linear dichroism using synchrotron radiation. By varying the Cu(NO3)2/Zn(NO3)2 concentration ratio from 0 to 10% in a chemical bath kept at high pH, it is shown that the amount of Cu incorporated into ZnO nanowires varies from around 4.5 × 1016 to 3.6 × 1018 at cm−3. However, only 15% of the incorporated Cu forms CuZn‐related defects, while the remaining Cu lies on the surfaces of ZnO nanowires. Importantly, thermal annealing under O2 atmosphere is found to electrically activate the incorporated Cu, resulting in the formation of CuZn‐related defect complexes involving nearby VZn, the structured green emission band with a strong phonon coupling, and the increase in the electrical resistivity. These findings shed light on the local environment of Cu incorporated into ZnO nanowires and the required conditions for electrically activating the compensatory doping, as an important outcome for enhanced piezoelectric nanogenerators and stress/strain sensors.
Moiré Ferroelectricity in Twisted Multilayer SnSe2
Authors: Ran Yutong , Meng Chen , Lu Ziao , Wang Huaipeng , Ma Yunpeng , Xie Dan , Li Qian , Zhu Hongwei
Published: December 2024

Moiré structures have gained attention for their ability to regulate material properties and drive phenomena such as superconductivity, topological effects, and the quantum Hall effect. This tunability also extends to Moiré ferroelectricity, which is essential for high‐performance, multistate electronic devices. However, most studies focus on few‐layer twisted materials from mechanical exfoliation. Although chemical vapor deposition (CVD) theoretically enables the direct growth of twisted multilayer materials with sliding Moiré ferroelectricity, this has yet to be achieved. The characteristics of van der Waals‐layered SnSe2, such as multiphase and broad bandgap, make it well suited for the direct growth of multilayer structures. Herein, multilayer Moiré‐twisted SnSe2 is synthesized using a non‐steady‐state CVD method. Layered and screw twists lead to Moiré structures, inducing ferroelectricity. Increasing the number of twists and layers enhances ferroelectric properties and signal feedback. These devices exhibit clear hysteresis and multistate ferroelectric performance under varying voltage drives.
Re: Role of artificial‐intelligence‐assisted automated cardiac biometrics in prenatal screening for coarctation of aorta
Authors: DeVore G. R.
Published: December 2024

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Taksøe‐Vester et al. Click here to view the article.
Enhancing water stress tolerance in wheat: Advanced phenotyping methods for improved genotype selection in arid regions
Authors: Abdelhamid Magdi T. , Schmidhalter Urs , Fares Waleed M. , Dawood Mona G.
Published: December 2024

Water scarcity poses a significant challenge to wheat cultivation, especially in Egypt, where wheat is a staple crop. The study aimed to enhance water stress tolerance in wheat by using advanced phenotyping methods to improve genotype selection in arid regions. The objective was to evaluate various wheat genotypes for their drought tolerance and to explore the effectiveness of high‐throughput phenotyping methods such as canopy temperature (CT), normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), and water‐soluble carbohydrates (WSC) as non‐destructive tools for selection. Two field trials were conducted using 15 wheat genotypes in a randomized complete block design with three replications under well‐watered and water‐stressed conditions. Phenotyping methodologies, including NDVI, CT, and WSC, were used to assess the plants. The results showed strong correlations between these phenotyping methods and wheat yield, with genotype 10 showing the highest yield under stress conditions. The study reported broad‐sense heritability values of 0.89 for CT, 0.78 for NDVI, 0.96 for WSC, and 0.69 for grain yield, indicating the robustness of these traits as indicators for selecting water stress‐tolerant wheat genotypes. In conclusion, advanced phenotyping methods, such as CT, NDVI, and WSC, proved to be quick and reliable indicators for screening wheat genotypes in water‐stressed environments. This approach can significantly contribute to breeding programs to improve wheat yield and water productivity in arid regions. These findings underscore the importance of integrating high‐throughput phenotyping in crop improvement strategies for drought‐prone areas.

Key Points

Water‐soluble carbohydrates, canopy temperature, and NDVI effectively predict water‐stress‐tolerant genotypes.

Genotypes 8 and 10 exhibited the highest grain yield and water productivity under water‐stressed environments.

High‐throughput phenotyping enables rapid, non‐destructive evaluation of wheat genotypes for water stress tolerance.
Association between magnesium and vitamin D status in adults with high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency
Authors: Zittermann Armin , Zelzer Sieglinde , Herrmann Markus , Kleber Marcus , Maerz Winfried , Pilz Sefan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

It has been assumed that magnesium (Mg) status may interact with vitamin D status. We therefore aimed at investigating the association between Mg and vitamin D status in a large cohort of adult individuals with a high prevalence of deficient/insufficient vitamin D and Mg status.

Methods

We used data from the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health Study (n = 2,286) to analyze differences according to serum Mg status in circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] (primary endpoint), 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [24,25(OH)2D3], vitamin D metabolite ratio and calcitriol, and odds ratios for deficient or insufficient 25(OH)D (secondary endpoints). We performed unadjusted and risk score (RS) adjusted and matched analyses.

Results

Of the study cohort (average age > 60 years), one third was 25(OH)D deficient (< 12 ng/mL), one third 25(OH)D insufficient (12 to < 20 ng/mL), about 10% Mg deficient (< 0.75 mmol/L) and additional 40% potentially Mg deficient (0.75 to 0.85 mmol/L). In adjusted/matched analyses, 25(OH)D was only non-significantly lower in Mg deficient or insufficient groups versus their respective control group (P > 0.05). Only the RS-adjusted, but not the RS-matched odds ratio of 25(OH)D deficiency was significantly lower for the group with adequate versus deficient/potentially deficient Mg status (0.83; 95%CI: 0.69–0.99), and only the RS-matched, but not the RS-adjusted odds ratio of 25(OH)D insufficiency was significantly lower for non-deficient versus deficient Mg status (0.69; 95%CI: 0.48–0.99). Other adjusted or matched secondary endpoints did not differ significantly between subgroups of Mg status.

Conclusions

Our data indicate only little effect between Mg and vitamin D status in adults with high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency.
Stem subsidence in total hip arthroplasty: retrospective investigation of a short stem using a simple measurement approach
Authors: Horst Nicolas , Theil Christoph , Gosheger Georg , Kalisch Tobias , Moellenbeck Burkhard
Published: December 2024

Background

Uncemented total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a successful treatment for advanced hip joint diseases. More recently, short stems became increasingly popular, but stem subsidence remains a concern. This study investigates early short stem subsidence in a large patient cohort using a simple measurement approach for everyday practice.

Methods

This retrospective, single center, single implant design study included 1000 patients with primary THA. Subsidence was evaluated using standardized weight-bearing radiographs taken 3–5 days and 2–3 weeks postoperatively with full weight-bearing (FWB). A novel Subsidence Index (SID) was introduced to quantify stem subsidence in a simple and reproducible manner. The SID is calculated by averaging four distinct linear measurements between defined anatomical landmarks on the femur and the implant, captured on standard radiographs without additional software.

Results

Out of all analyzed patients 6% (60/1000) had subsidence of more than 3 mm. The mean subsidence was 1.3 mm (range, 0 to 16.25 mm).

There were 0.6% (6) who underwent stem revision for symptomatic subsidence. Men and obese patients had greater subsidence. However, patient age, BMI, stems without lateral bone contact and other demographic factors were not associated with subsidence.

Conclusion

Early subsidence is relatively frequent with this uncemented short stem, however revisions are rare. Patients with risk factors should be counseled regarding FWB and radiographic controls should be performed. The SID provides an easy, non-invasive and inexpensive tool for early subsidence assessment; however, its simplicity limits its accuracy. Further research is needed in comparison to more elaborate methods.
Argillaceous Soft Rock in-situ Test Program in Tunneling
Authors: Metzler Ines , Frühwirt Thomas , Hölzl Harald , Marcher Thomas
Published: December 2024

This study undertakes a comprehensive examination of the characteristics of the argillaceous, hard soil/soft rock (HSSR) lithology of the Unterangerberg formation in Tyrol, Austria, focusing on its swelling properties and anisotropic material behavior. The objective is to achieve an extensive material characterization to be able to calibrate material models accurately. This is to be achieved by means of an in-situ test campaign within the Angath adit tunnel construction site and accompanying laboratory tests. The geotechnical monitoring concept in a designated test gallery includes a chain inclinometer, extensometers, geodetic targets, shotcrete strain meters, photogrammetric observations, and a long-term irrigation test field, with a section of the invert left exposed intentionally. The in-situ tests yield valuable insights into the intricate behavior of the HSSR lithology, offering a comprehensive description of material variability, and recommendations for characterization. Results indicate that despite the high swellable clay mineral content, significant swelling occurred only to a small extent during the observation period to date. The study concludes that the in-situ behavior of such formations significantly contributes to a better understanding of their characteristics, leading to a substantial reduction in critical load cases for future planning phases.
Climate change denial and ideology in Swedish online media: measuring ideology change using a computational approach
Authors: Yantseva Victoria
Published: December 2024

In this article, we examine the ideological trajectories of Facebook groups discussing climate change issues in Sweden, with a particular focus on groups expressing climate change denial beliefs. Using textual data spanning nine years, we construct an ideological space through text embeddings and apply trajectory analysis to map the ideological movement of these groups, exploring potential radicalisation or polarisation in users’ beliefs. Our findings suggest that most groups spreading climate change denial views occupy a shared ideological space, but are positioned on the periphery rather than at the centre. Additionally, we identify several distinct clusters of actors with similar movement patterns, some of which shift towards positions where climate change scepticism or increased problematisation of climate change issues is more prevalent. Finally, we discuss ways to interpret the dimensions of the resulting ideological space.
Rough multi-factor volatility for SPX and VIX options
Authors: Jacquier Antoine , Muguruza Aitor , Pannier Alexandre
Published: December 2024

We provide explicit small-time formulae for the at-the-money implied volatility, skew, and curvature in a large class of models, including rough volatility models and their multi-factor versions. Our general setup encompasses both European options on a stock and VIX options, thereby providing new insights on their joint calibration. The tools used are essentially based on Malliavin calculus for Gaussian processes. We develop a detailed theoretical and numerical analysis of the two-factor rough Bergomi model and provide insights on the interplay between the different parameters for joint SPX–VIX smile calibration.
Tourist perceptions, motivations and expectations when interacting with African lion (Panthera leo) cubs
Authors: Wilson Ann , Phillips Clive JC
Published: December 2024

Tourism wildlife interactions are controversial, the debate hinging largely on the compromised welfare of the animals used. Despite this, lion cub (Panthera leo) interactions are popular, and there is a need to understand what motivates interactors to participate in the activity, their perceptions and expectations. We surveyed the attitudes of 300 visitors to three lion cub interaction facilities in South Africa. Whilst 38% of interactors were aware of the controversy around lion cub interactions, 69% desired the experience regardless. It is widely assumed that lion cub interaction opportunities are big attractions, yet 74% of respondents said that they would still have visited if lion cub interactions were not offered. Whilst 84% of interactors felt that their expectations were met, 61% said that the interaction had no impact on them. Several of those interviewed interacted with multiple species, and 34% determined that their favourite engagement was with animals that interacted back voluntarily. Most of those interviewed chose the interaction for their children (69%). Whilst 58% felt the experience was educational, only 2% of these had learnt about the plight of lions in the wild. When asked to reflect on the welfare of the lion cubs they had interacted with, ‘Freedom from discomfort’ was seen as the most important factor, as well as ‘Freedom to express natural behaviour’. Interactions were viewed with a variety of emotions and generated a range of beliefs. We conclude that the findings can be used by facilities to better prepare visitors for the experience, ensuring that interaction animals are better able to serve in their role as ambassador representatives.
Training T-shaped translational scientists
Authors: Wasko Molly , Nearing Kathryn Allen , Neves Stacey L. , Carrillo Amy , Rainwater Julie , Croker Jennifer A. , Kimberly Robert P.
Published: December 2024

To evaluate the design of I-Corps@NCATS as a translational scientist training program, we mapped specific elements of the program’s content and pedagogy to the characteristics of a translational scientist, as first defined by Gilliland et al. []: systems thinker, process innovator, boundary spanner, team player, and skilled communicator. Using a mixed-methods evaluation, we examined how the I-Corps@NCATS training program, delivered across twenty-two Clinical and Translational Science Award Hubs, impacted the development of these key translational scientist characteristics.

Methods:

We developed survey items to assess the characteristics of systems thinker, process innovator, boundary spanner, team player, and skilled communicator. Data were collected from a national sample of 281 participants in the I-Corps@NCATS program. Using post-then-retrospective-pre survey items, participants self-reported their ability to perform skills associated with each of the translational scientist characteristics. Additionally, two open-ended survey questions explored how the program shifted participants’ translational orientation, generating 211 comments. These comments were coded through a team-based, iterative process.

Results:

Respondents reported the greatest increases in self-assessed abilities related to systems thinking and skilled communication. Participants indicated the highest levels of abilities related to team player and boundary crosser. From the coding of open-ended comments, we identified two additional characteristics of translational scientists: intellectual humility and cognitive flexibility.

Conclusions:

Participation in I-Corps@NCATS accelerates translational science in two ways: 1) by teaching the process of scientific translation from research ideas to real-world solutions, and 2) by encouraging growth in the mindset and characteristics of a translational scientist.
Delegated Rulemaking in the European Union Fifteen Years Post-Lisbon: Taking Stock and Forward-Looking Reflections
Authors: Türk Alexander H.
Published: December 2024

Drawing on the findings from the contributions to this Special Issue, this article maintains that, fifteen years after Lisbon, a debate on the law and politics of delegated rulemaking in the European Union (EU) is as relevant as ever. That is because the functional and procedural integration of the Member States in the EU multilevel and multi-jurisdictional legal system, supplanted by unprecedented challenges for supranational crisis management in the recent years, often led to unpredictable and often controversial configurations of delegated rulemaking. One may thus conclude that, fifteen years later, the constitutional framework put in place in the Lisbon Treaty has not been able to effectively constrain the normative development that evolved from delegated rulemaking, which often followed a different path. Hence the Lisbon Treaty provides only a partial blueprint for delegated rulemaking, leaving out rulemaking by EU agencies, regulatory frameworks and private parties, as well as increasingly composite and hybrid cooperation formulas involving EU and national executive actors. The future of EU delegated rulemaking will very much depend on the capacity to reach consensus on important meta-principles and political conceptions, such as democratisation and parliamentarisation, shaping the normative spaces generated within the sui generis dynamic European model of governance.
Unjustified Partiality or Impartial Bias? Reckoning with Age and Disability Discrimination in Cancer Clinical Trials
Authors: Zakout Ghada A.
Published: December 2024

The exclusion of the elderly and people with disabilities from cancer clinical research without appropriate justification is discriminatory and is at odds with the ethos of EU principles, laws and research regulations. It further limits study generalizability. Several primary EU laws fronted by the European Charter prohibit engaging in disparate impact discrimination on the grounds of age and disability in all of EU tasks.
Clinician Conflicts of Interest at the Cleveland Clinic: The Context and Functions of Disclosure Policy and What Remains Unknown
Authors: Rodwin Marc A.
Published: December 2024

Due to their financial incentive, clinicians who earn income from a firm that markets medical devices, pharmaceuticals, tests, etc. might inappropriately prescribe their products or services. The Cleveland Clinic’s conflict of interest (CI) policy creates rules governing clinicians who accept compensation from outside firms that market products they prescribe or use in their practice (hereafter, covered financial relationships). The CI policy is implemented by the Innovation Management and Conflict of Interest Program (IM&COI) (hereafter the Committee).
Mesoamerican Tri-lobed Jade “Spoon” Pendants: Questioning the Idea of Origins
Authors: Haines Helen R.
Published: December 2024

Jade has been long recognized by archaeologists as an important trade item among ancient Mesoamerican cultures, particularly for ancient Olmec and Maya cultures. Unfortunately, the precocious development of Olmec society led many early archaeologists to overemphasize Olmec influence on the Maya during the Formative period (ca. 1000–400 BC). This is particularly noteworthy in the attribution of tri-lobed jade “spoon” pendants to the Olmec despite the lack of archaeological evidence. Using a recently discovered tri-lobed jade “spoon” pendant from the site of Ka'kabish, Belize, and dated to the Middle Formative period (ca. 800–600 BC), this article argues that such pieces should not be unquestionably attributed to the Olmec. This argument is supported by correlation with similar objects from other secure archaeological contexts at Maya sites dating to the Middle Formative period. This article contends that using the ethnonym Olmec to describe these objects creates an a priori assumption that these objects originated in the Olmec region and were merely repurposed by the Maya and argues for a reinterpretation of the origin and meaning for these objects.
An integrated approach using proximity labelling and chemical crosslinking to probe in situ host-virus protein–protein interactions
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Lin Zhewang
Published: December 2024

Host-virus interactions are critically important for various stages of the viral replication cycle. The reliance of viruses on the host factors for their entry, replication, and maturation processes can be exploited for the development of antiviral therapeutics. Thus, the identification and characterization of such viral-host dependency factors has been an attractive area of research to provide novel antiviral targets. Traditional proteomic efforts based on affinity purification of protein complexes from cell lysates are limited to detecting strong and stable interactions. In this perspective, we discuss the integration of two latest proteomic techniques, based on in situ proximity labelling and chemical crosslinking methods, to uncover host-virus protein–protein interactions in living cells.