bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of a test strip for the rapid detection of antibody against equine infectious anemia virus
Authors: Zhang Zenan , Guo Kui , Chu Xiaoyu , Liu Mingru , Du Cheng , Hu Zhe , Wang Xiaojun
Published: January 2024

Equine infectious anemia (EIA) is a contagious disease of horses caused by the equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). The clinical signs at the acute phase include intermittent high fever, thrombocytopenia, hemorrhage, edema, and anemia. The clinical signs at chronic and relapsing subclinical levels include emaciation and progressive weakness. Surviving horses become lifelong carriers because of the integration of the viral genome into that of the host, and these horses can produce and transmit the virus to other animals. This increases the difficulty of imposing practical control measures to prevent epidemics of this disease. Serological tests measuring the antibodies in equine sera are considered to be a reliable tool for the long-term monitoring of EIA. However, the standard serological tests for EIV either have low sensitivity (e.g., agar gel immunodiffusion test, AGID) or are time consuming to perform (e.g., ELISA and western blotting). The development of a rapid and simple method for detecting the disease is therefore critical to control the spread of EIA. In this study, we designed and developed a colloidal gold immunochromatographic (GICG) test strip to detect antibodies against EIAV based on the double-antigen sandwich. Both the p26 and gp45 proteins were used as the capture antigens, which may help to improve the positive detection rate of the strip. We found that the sensitivity of the test strip was 8 to 16 times higher than those of two commercially available ELISA tests and 128 to 256 times higher than AGID, but 8 to 16 times lower than that of western blotting. The strip has good specificity and stability. When serum samples from experimental horses immunized with the attenuated EIAV vaccine (n = 31) were tested, the results of the test strip showed 100% coincidence with those from NECVB-cELISA and 70.97% with AGID. When testing clinical serum samples (n = 1014), the test strip surprisingly provided greater sensitivity and a higher number of “true positive” results than other techniques. Therefore, we believe that the GICG test strip has demonstrated great potential in the field trials as a simple and effective tool for the detection of antibodies against EIAV.

Key points

• A colloidal gold immunochromatographic (GICG) fast test strip was developed with good specificity, sensitivity, stability, and repeatability

• The test strip can be used in point-of-care testing for the primary screening of EIAV antibodies

• Both the p26 and gp45 proteins were used as the capture antigens, giving a high positive detection rate in the testing of experimentally infected animal and field samples
Efficacy and safety of biosimilar Peg-filgrastim after autologous stem cell transplant in myeloma and lymphoma patients: a comparative study with biosimilar Filgrastim, Lenograstim, and originator Peg-filgrastim
Authors: Marchesi Francesco , Terrenato Irene , Papa Elena , Tomassi Martina , Falcucci Paolo , Gumenyuk Svitlana , Palombi Francesca , Pisani Francesco , Renzi Daniela , Romano Atelda , Spadea Antonio , Regazzo Giulia , Rizzo Maria Giulia , De Rienzo Mafalda , Ripellino Claudio , Sgromo Simona , Viggiani Caterina , Ponte Eleonora , Kayal Ramy , Cordone Iole , Foddai Maria Laura , Mengarelli Andrea
Published: January 2024

Data about biosimilar Peg-filgrastim (bioPEG) in autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) are still scarce. The aim of this study has been to assess efficacy and safety of bioPEG among lymphoma and myeloma patients undergoing ASCT, comparing these data with historical controls receiving other G-CSFs. Furthermore, an economic evaluation has been included to estimate the savings by using bioPEG. This is a prospective cohort study comparing lymphoma and myeloma patients undergoing ASCT and receiving bioPEG (n = 73) with three historical consecutive cohorts collected retrospectively who received other G-CSFs (Lenograstim — Leno — n = 101, biosimilar Filgrastim — bioFIL n = 392, and originator Peg-filgrastim — oriPEG n = 60). We observed a significantly shorter time to neutrophils and platelet engraftment (p < 0.001) in patients treated with bioPEG and oriPEG. Moreover, patients who received bioPEG showed a shorter hospitalization time (p < 0.001) and a lower transfusion need (p < 0.001). We did not observe any significant difference in terms of transplant-related mortality, mucositis, and diarrhea among the four groups. No serious adverse events were associated with bioPEG. Similar data were obtained after running a stratified analysis for lymphomas and myeloma separately conducted by using a propensity score matching. The average total cost per patient of bioPEG was € 18218.9 compared to € 23707.8, € 20677.3 and € 19754.9 of Leno, oriPEG, and bioFIL, respectively. In conclusion, bioPEG seems to be as effective as the originator and more effective than short-acting G-CSFs in terms of post-transplant engraftment in myeloma and lymphoma patients undergoing ASCT. Moreover, bioPEG was cost-effective when compared with the other G-CSFs.
Normal cohorts in automated brain atrophy estimation: how many healthy subjects to include?
Authors: Rubbert Christian , Wolf Luisa , Vach Marius , Ivan Vivien L. , Hedderich Dennis M. , Gaser Christian , Dahnke Robert , Caspers Julian ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This study investigates the influence of normal cohort (NC) size and the impact of different NCs on automated MRI-based brain atrophy estimation.

Methods

A pooled NC of 3945 subjects (NCpool) was retrospectively created from five publicly available cohorts. Voxel-wise gray matter volume atrophy maps were calculated for 48 Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients (55–82 years) using veganbagel and dynamic normal templates with an increasing number of healthy subjects randomly drawn from NCpool (initially three, and finally 100 subjects). Over 100 repeats of the process, the mean over a voxel-wise standard deviation of gray matter z-scores was established and plotted against the number of subjects in the templates. The knee point of these curves was defined as the minimum number of subjects required for consistent brain atrophy estimation. Atrophy maps were calculated using each NC for AD patients and matched healthy controls (HC). Two readers rated the extent of mesiotemporal atrophy to discriminate AD/HC.

Results

The maximum knee point was at 15 subjects. For 21 AD/21 HC, a sufficient number of subjects were available in each NC for validation. Readers agreed on the AD diagnosis in all cases (Kappa for the extent of atrophy, 0.98). No differences in diagnoses between NCs were observed (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.91; Cochran’s Q, p = 0.19).

Conclusion

At least 15 subjects should be included in age- and sex-specific normal templates for consistent brain atrophy estimation. In the study’s context, qualitative interpretation of regional atrophy allows reliable AD diagnosis with a high inter-reader agreement, irrespective of the NC used.

Clinical relevance statement

The influence of normal cohorts (NCs) on automated brain atrophy estimation, typically comparing individual scans to NCs, remains largely unexplored. Our study establishes the minimum number of NC-subjects needed and demonstrates minimal impact of different NCs on regional atrophy estimation.

Key Points

• Software-based brain atrophy estimation often relies on normal cohorts for comparisons.

• At least 15 subjects must be included in an age- and sex-specific normal cohort.

• Using different normal cohorts does not influence regional atrophy estimation.
High temporal resolution of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) dynamics during heat stress does not support a causative role in coral bleaching
Authors: Schlotheuber Marlen , Voolstra Christian R. , de Beer Dirk , Camp Emma F. , Klatt Judith M. , Ghilardi Mattia , Neumüller Katharina , Ousley Sara , Bejarano Sonia
Published: January 2024

Human-induced climate change is causing ocean warming that triggers the breakdown of the coral–algal symbiosis. The proximate cause of this phenomenon, known as coral bleaching, is commonly attributed to the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by the thermally stressed photosynthetic algal symbionts. However, direct evidence that algal ROS production (e.g., in the form of H2O2) and coral physiological stress are the ultimate cause of bleaching remains ambiguous. Here, we investigated the temporal dynamics of H2O2 and oxygen (O2) concentrations during thermally induced coral bleaching to disentangle cause from consequence. Microsensors at the tissue interface of Pocillopora damicornis measured H2O2 and O2 concentrations while exposing single nubbins to baseline temperatures (30 °C) and to minor (33 °C), moderate (36 °C), and high (39 °C) levels of acute heat stress using the Coral Bleaching Automated Stress System (CBASS). We show that a temporary decline in O2 concentration, accompanied by a declining photosynthetic efficiency and loss of Symbiodiniaceae and pigmentation, is the initial response to moderate thermal stress. This response was neither provoked nor followed by an increased H2O2 concentration at the coral tissue interface. A steady light-independent increase of H2O2 was only detected during high heat stress, resulting in the complete and permanent loss of photosynthetic activity. Our findings do not support a direct connection between algal photodamage and an increase in H2O2 concentration during thermally induced bleaching and suggest that more research on the function of H2O2 is warranted. This notion is further substantiated by the observation of an additional source of H2O2, likely oxidative bursts, that were common at the baseline temperature and under minor heat stress, while their occurrence decreased at moderate and high heat stress. Resolving the multifaceted and dynamic roles of H2O2 in coral bleaching is critical to better understand the response of the coral holobiont to thermal stress and identifying the processes underlying the breakdown of the coral–algal symbiosis.
Numerical investigation of terahertz wave driven electron acceleration generated from gas jet
Authors: Turnár Sz. , Sarkadi B. , Jolly S. W. , Hebling J. , Tibai Z.
Published: January 2024

We have investigated the dependence of the acceleration efficiency for three different proposed direct terahertz wave driven electron accelerator setups, including ionization in a gas jet source. We have numerically simulated and optimized the ionization processes using Particle-In-Cell code (EPOCH) and pointed out its crucial effect on the accelerating mechanism. Supposing two single-cycle terahertz driving pulses with 1 mJ energy per pulse we characterized the different accelerator arrangements. The main properties of the predicted electron beams with the average kinetic energy of 27 keV can be adapted to the requirements of different applications in the fC-pC charge range.
Contact force sensing manual catheter versus remote magnetic navigation ablation of atrial fibrillation: a single-center comparison
Authors: Schlögl Simon , Schlögl Klaudia Stella , Bengel Philipp , Haarmann Helge , Bergau Leonard , Rasenack Eva , Hasenfuss Gerd , Zabel Markus
Published: January 2024

Background

Data comparing remote magnetic catheter navigation (RMN) with manual catheter navigation in combination with contact force sensing (MCN-CF) ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is lacking. The primary aim of the present retrospective comparative study was to compare the outcome of RMN versus (vs.) MCN-CF ablation of AF with regards to AF recurrence. Secondary aim was to analyze periprocedural risk, ablation characteristics and repeat procedures.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 452 patients undergoing a total of 605 ablations of AF: 180 patients were ablated using RMN, 272 using MCN-CF.

Results

Except body mass index there was no significant difference between groups at baseline. After a mean 1.6 ± 1.6 years of follow-up and 1.3 ± 0.4 procedures, 81% of the patients in the MCN-CF group remained free of AF recurrence compared to 53% in the RMN group (P < 0.001). After analysis of 153 repeat ablations (83 MCN-RF vs. 70 RMN; P = 0.18), there was a significantly higher reconnection rate of pulmonary veins after RMN ablation (P < 0.001). In multivariable Cox-regression analysis, RMN ablation (P < 0.001) and left atrial diameter (P = 0.013) was an independent risk factor for AF recurrence. Procedure time, radiofrequency application time and total fluoroscopy time and fluoroscopy dose were higher in the RMN group without difference in total number of ablation points. Complication rates did not differ significantly between groups (P = 0.722).

Conclusions

In our retrospective comparative study, the AF recurrence rate and pulmonary vein reconnection rate is significantly lower with more favorable procedural characteristics and similar complication rate utilizing MCN-CF compared to RMN.
Downstaging after preoperative chemoradiation for locally advanced rectal cancer is associated with better survival than pathologic stage 0–1 disease treated with upfront surgery
Authors: Kasheri Eli , Artinyan Avo , Oka Kimberly , Zhu Ruoyan , Seiser Natalie , Shirinian Mihran , Barnajian Moshe , Cohen Jason , Ellenhorn Joshua , Nasseri Yosef
Published: January 2024

Background and objectives

It is unknown how patients with locally advanced rectal cancer with significant response to preoperative radiotherapy/chemoradiotherapy fare relative to patients with true pathologic 0–1 disease undergoing upfront surgery. We aimed to determine whether survival is improved in locally advanced rectal cancer downstaged to pathologic stage 0–1 disease compared to true pathologic stage 0–1 tumors.

Methods

A retrospective review of the National Cancer Database between 2004 and 2016 was conducted. Three groups were identified: (1) clinical stage 2–3 disease downstaged to pathologic stage 0–1 disease after radiotherapy, (2) clinical stage 2–3 disease not downstaged after radiotherapy, and (3) true pathologic 0–1 tumors undergoing upfront surgery. The primary endpoint was overall survival and was compared using Kaplan–Meier and multivariate Cox regression analyses.

Results

The study population consisted of 59,884 patients. Of the 40,130 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with preoperative radiation, 12,670 (31.5%) had significant downstaging (group 1), while 27,460 (68.4%) had no significant downstaging (group 2). A total of 19,754 had pathologic 0–1 disease treated with upfront resection (group 3). On Kaplan–Meier analysis, downstaged patients had significantly better overall survival compared to both non-downstaged and true pathologic stage 0–1 patients (median 156 vs. 99 and 136 months, respectively, p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, downstaged patients had significantly better survival (HR 0.88, p < 0.001) compared to true pathologic 0–1 patients.

Conclusions

Locally advanced rectal cancer downstaged after preoperative radiotherapy has significantly better survival compared to true pathologic stage 0–1 disease treated with upfront surgery. Response to chemoradiotherapy likely identifies a subset of patients with a particularly good prognosis.
The effect of a single closed-circuit rebreather decompression dive in extremely cold water to cardiac function
Authors: Tuominen Laura J. , Tuohinen Suvi , Lundell Richard V. , Räisänen-Sokolowski Anne K. , Wuorimaa Tomi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Dive-induced cardiac and hemodynamic changes are caused by various mechanisms, and they are aggravated by cold water. Therefore, aging divers with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions may be at risk of acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, or arrhythmias while diving. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a single decompression CCR dive in arctic cold water on cardiac function in Finnish technical divers.

Methods

Thirty-nine divers performed one identical 45 mfw CCR dive in 2–4 °C water. Hydration and cardiac functions were assessed before and after the dive. Detection of venous gas embolization was performed within 120 min after the dive.

Results

The divers were affected by both cold-water-induced hemodynamic changes and immersion-related fluid loss. Both systolic and diastolic functions were impaired after the dive although the changes in cardiac functions were subtle. Venous inert gas bubbles were detected in all divers except for one. Venous gas embolism did not affect systolic or diastolic function.

Conclusion

A single trimix CCR dive in arctic cold water seemed to debilitate both systolic and diastolic function. Although the changes were subtle, they appeared parallel over several parameters. This indicates a real post-dive deterioration in cardiac function instead of only volume-dependent changes. These changes are without a clinical significance in healthy divers. However, in a population with pre-existing or underlying heart problems, such changes may provoke symptomatic problems during or after the dive.
Comparison of the 7th and revised 8th UICC editions (2020) for oral squamous cell carcinoma: How does the reclassification impact staging and survival?
Authors: Struckmeier Ann-Kristin , Eichhorn Philip , Agaimy Abbas , Buchbender Mayte , Moest Tobias , Lutz Rainer , Kesting Marco
Published: January 2024

Since its introduction in 1968, the TNM (tumor, node, metastasis) classification established by the International Union Against Cancer has provided a consistent framework for staging of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The introduction of the 8th edition in 2017 brought about significant modifications, encompassing the integration of depth of invasion (DOI) and extranodal extension (ENE) into the T and N classifications. Further, the UICC the criteria for the T3 and T4a categories were amended in 2020. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of reclassification on staging and, subsequently, the survival of patients with OSCC. Primary OSCCs from 391 patients were classified according to the 7th and revised 8th UICC editions (2020). Stage migration was assessed, and stage-specific progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. The log-rank test was used to compare the different stages. Cox-proportional hazard modeling was used to compare the two editions. Incorporating the DOI into the T classification resulted in an upstaging of 77 patients, constituting 19.69% of the cohort. In addition, 49 (12.53%) patients experienced an upstaging when considering ENE in the N classification. Consequently, 103 patients underwent upstaging in UICC staging, accounting for 21.74% of cases. Upstaging mainly occurred from stage III to IVA (26.92%) and from stage IVA to IVB (31.78%). Upon comparing the categories in survival analysis, significant differences in OS and PFS were especially observed between stage IVB and lower stages. When examining the hazard ratios, it became evident that UICC 8 stage IVB is burdened by a 5.59-fold greater risk of disease progression than stage I. Furthermore, UICC 8 stage IVB exhibits a 3.83 times higher likelihood of death than stage I disease. We demonstrated significant stage migration from the 7th to the revised 8th UICC edition. Overall, incorporating DOI and ENE into the T and N classifications represents a substantial clinical advancement, leading to a more accurate staging of OSCC patients. Both staging systems exhibited statistically significant discrimination between stages; however, the 8th UICC edition allowed for a more precise categorization of patients based on their prognosis and led to enhanced hazard discrimination, particularly within higher stages.
Adsorptive stripping voltammetric sensor based on Cd zeolitic imidazole framework-67 for electrochemical detection of sarin simulant
Authors: Elfiky Mona , Beltagi Amr M. , Abuzalat Osama
Published: January 2024

A selective and reliable modified glassy carbon sensor, based on a 1.0% Cd zeolitic imidazole framework-67 modified glassy carbon sensor (GCS2), has been developed for ultrasensitive detection of dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP) in human biological fluid. The synthesis of porous nanoparticles of Cd zeolitic imidazole framework-67 (Cd ZIF-67) was carried out via the hydrothermal method. The resulting Cd ZIF-67 powder emerges with good crystallinity, a rhombic dodecahedral morphology with particle size in the range 300 ~ 500 nm, and a specific surface area of 1780 m2·g−1. Furthermore, the fabricated sensor exhibited superior performance in the detection of DMMP with two linearity ranges of 0.02–2.0 nM and 2.0–9.0 nM and a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.06 pM. The fabricated sensor exhibited good reliability, long-term stability, and repeatability, which are favourable attributes for electroanalytical detection. In addition, the fabricated sensor displayed superior performance without significant interference during the assay of DMMP in a biological fluid (human serum sample) within two linearity ranges of 0.1–1.0 nM and 1.0–6.0 nM and a LOD of 0.03 nM.

Graphical Abstract
The spatiotemporal socio-demography of the Tokyo capital region: a data-driven explorative approach
Authors: Tateishi Eigo
Published: January 2024

In the coming decades, most of Asia’s population will reside in megacities, vast urban regions accommodating 10–30 million people. However, Asian megacities will be at the same time situated in the countries whose national population is projected to decline rapidly in the coming decades. Hence, for scholars and policymakers of Asian countries, understanding how the socio-demography of mature, post-growth, megacities will evolve within space and time is crucial to envision long-term and effective spatial governance. Prior studies have shown that varied migration patterns among socio-demographic groups lead to synchronized re-urbanization, post-suburbanization, and urban shrinkage in mature city regions. However, existing studies have limitations: they often exclude large Asian megacities, lack micro-scale analyses, and use predefined spatial typologies/divisions that obscure detailed patterns. To address these research gaps, this study investigated sub-municipal spatiotemporal patterns in Tokyo, the largest Asian megacity, using micro-scale job-household data and unsupervised machine learning clustering. The study revealed that Tokyo, like Euro-American cities, has experienced regional synchronization of (re)urbanization and (post)suburbanization within a complex landscape of shrinkage. However, the synchronized sub/urban growth is not uniform across localities within Tokyo. Complex migration flows seem to create disparities in demographic growth and decline, emphasizing the need for collaborative governance among localities within a megacity. The study contributes to a wider audience who are interested not only in the evolution of cities but also in an emerging application of machine learning to quantitative urban analyses.
Inflation and inequality: new evidence from a dynamic panel threshold analysis
Authors: Glawe Linda , Wagner Helmut
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates nonlinearities in the inflation-inequality relationship using a dynamic threshold panel data model and data for 101 countries over the period 1985–2020. We find that inflation rates exceeding 6% are associated with higher income inequality whereas below this threshold, the correlation remains insignificant. From a monetary policy perspective, these findings suggest that a disinflation policy will likely lead to a more equal income distribution in high-inflation countries whereas there is no such effect in a low-inflation setting. In addition, we find that a higher initial level of inequality as well as unemployment has an inequality-enhancing effect. Contrary to previous research, our inflation threshold is endogenously determined, and we control for the Nickell bias arising from the inclusion of the lagged level of inequality. Moreover, our paper covers a much longer time period and also a broader set of developed and developing countries. Our findings have important policy implications, especially against the background of the recent sharp increase in inflation.
Degradation increases peat greenhouse gas emissions in undrained tropical peat swamp forests
Authors: Swails Erin , Frolking Steve , Deng Jia , Hergoualc’h Kristell
Published: January 2024

Tropical peat swamp degradation can modify net peat greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions even without drainage. However, current Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) guidelines do not provide default emission factors (EF) for anthropogenically-degraded undrained organic soils. We reviewed published field measurements of peat GHG fluxes in undrained undegraded and degraded peat swamp forests in Southeast Asia (SEA) and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Degradation without drainage shifted the peat from a net CO2 sink to a source in both SEA (− 2.9 ± 1.8 to 4.1 ± 2.0 Mg CO2–C ha−1 yr−1) and LAC (− 4.3 ± 1.8 to 1.4 ± 2.2 Mg CO2–C ha−1 yr−1). It raised peat CH4 emissions (kg C ha−1 yr−1) in SEA (22.1 ± 13.6 to 32.7 ± 7.8) but decreased them in LAC (218.3 ± 54.2 to 165.0 ± 4.5). Degradation increased peat N2O emissions (kg N ha−1 yr−1) in SEA forests (0.9 ± 0.5 to 4.8 ± 2.3) (limited N2O data). It shifted peat from a net GHG sink to a source in SEA (− 7.9 ± 6.9 to 20.7 ± 7.4 Mg CO2-equivalent ha−1 yr−1) and increased peat GHG emissions in LAC (9.8 ± 9.0 to 24.3 ± 8.2 Mg CO2-equivalent ha−1 yr−1). The large observed increase in net peat GHG emissions in undrained degraded forests compared to undegraded conditions calls for their inclusion as a new class in the IPCC guidelines. As current default IPCC EF for tropical organic soils are based only on data collected in SEA ombrotrophic peatlands, expanded geographic representation and refinement of peat GHG EF by nutrient status are also needed.
Integrated analysis of diverse cancer types reveals a breast cancer-specific serum miRNA biomarker through relative expression orderings analysis
Authors: Ma Liyuan , Gao Yaru , Huo Yue , Tian Tian , Hong Guini , Li Hongdong
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Serum microRNA (miRNA) holds great potential as a non-invasive biomarker for diagnosing breast cancer (BrC). However, most diagnostic models rely on the absolute expression levels of miRNAs, which are susceptible to batch effects and challenging for clinical transformation. Furthermore, current studies on liquid biopsy diagnostic biomarkers for BrC mainly focus on distinguishing BrC patients from healthy controls, needing more specificity assessment.

Methods

We collected a large number of miRNA expression data involving 8465 samples from GEO, including 13 different cancer types and non-cancer controls. Based on the relative expression orderings (REOs) of miRNAs within each sample, we applied the greedy, LASSO multiple linear regression, and random forest algorithms to identify a qualitative biomarker specific to BrC by comparing BrC samples to samples of other cancers as controls.

Results

We developed a BrC-specific biomarker called 7-miRPairs, consisting of seven miRNA pairs. It demonstrated comparable classification performance in our analyzed machine learning algorithms while requiring fewer miRNA pairs, accurately distinguishing BrC from 12 other cancer types. The diagnostic performance of 7-miRPairs was favorable in the training set (accuracy = 98.47%, specificity = 98.14%, sensitivity = 99.25%), and similar results were obtained in the test set (accuracy = 97.22%, specificity = 96.87%, sensitivity = 98.02%). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of the 11 miRNAs within the 7-miRPairs revealed significant enrichment of target mRNAs in pathways associated with BrC.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence that utilizing serum miRNA pairs can offer significant advantages for BrC-specific diagnosis in clinical practice by directly comparing serum samples with BrC to other cancer types.
Cu/ZnO/CeO2 Supported on MOF-5 as a Novel Catalyst for the CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol: A Mechanistic Study on the Effect of CeO2 and MOF-5 on Active Sites
Authors: Vali Seyed Alireza , Moral-Vico Javier , Font Xavier , Sánchez Antoni
Published: January 2024

Cu/ZnO/CeO2 nanocomposite was supported on metal organic framework (MOF-5) to enhance active sites dispersion and control the nanoparticles agglomeration during synthesis through strong metal-support interactions. The incorporation of MOF-5 alleviated the obstacle facing the commercial ternary Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 regarding low surface area due to nanoparticles agglomeration. In addition, Cu/ZnO/CeO2@MOF-5 gave higher methanol selectivity than the commercial catalyst which can be accounted for by the interfacial sites generated between MOF-5 and Cu/ZnO which favour methanol synthesis over carbon monoxide through regulating the intermediates bonding energies. CeO2 as support for Cu/ZnO nanoparticles was also compared with commercial support and showed to have led to smaller particle size and superior dispersion of Cu active sites as well. Cu/ZnO/CeO2@MOF-5 resulted in methanol STY of 23.3 mg gcat h−1 and selectivity of 79% at mild reaction temperature (260 °C) and pressure (10 bar). Two different MOFs including cerium based MOF and ZIF-8 demonstrated inferior performance compared to MOF-5.

Graphical Abstract
Measuring the Quality of Adult–Child Interactions in the Context of ECEC: a Systematic Review on the Relationship with Developmental and Educational Outcomes
Authors: Howard Steven J. , Lewis Kate L. , Walter Emma , Verenikina Irina , Kervin Lisa K.
Published: January 2024

Substantial research has aimed to characterise and measure early childhood education and care (ECEC) quality. However, heterogeneity in measures, methods and contexts across studies has made it difficult to reconcile the inconsistent associations reported between quality dimensions and child outcomes. While there is broad consensus that early interactions and experiences may be most strongly and directly influential to children’s developmental progress, attempts to identify aspects of quality interactions that relate most highly to child outcomes have tended to focus on particular measures and/or contexts. The aim of this systematical review was to reconcile the available evidence on associations of dimensions of quality interactions in formal ECEC settings (adult–child interactions and associated context and content) with the outcomes of children aged 3–5 years. Uniquely, this review examined how rates of significance differed by measure, country and study characteristics (e.g. sample, study design, risk of bias) – providing nuanced insights on quality indicators that most reliably account for children’s developmental progress. Seven databases were searched for the years 2000–2022, yielding 90 studies reporting 870 associations of interaction quality with various child development and educational outcomes. Results indicated little evidence for global ECEC quality indices (e.g. those integrating process quality indicators with structural elements) relating to child outcomes. The consistency in patterns of association improved for some dimensions of interaction quality (e.g. supporting play), with other dimensions showing low support even when they aligned with the outcome (e.g. instructional support with cognitive-academic outcomes). By providing an overview and reconciliation of evidence on the child-level associations in ECEC quality, across diverse measures and contexts, this review raises important questions of current ECEC quality assumptions and practices.
Tamyb10-D1 restores red grain color and increases grain dormancy via suppressing expression of TaLTP2.128, non-specific lipid transfer protein in wheat
Authors: Himi Eiko , Kurihara-Yonemoto Shiho , Abe Fumitaka , Takahashi Hidekazu , Tanaka Keisuke , Matsuura Takakazu , Maekawa Masahiko , Sasaki Takuji , Rikiishi Kazuhide
Published: January 2024

Grain dormancy of wheat is closely associated with grain color: red-grained lines show higher dormancy than white-grained lines. The production of red pigments is regulated by R-1, Tamyb10 gene. However, the relation between grain color and dormancy remains unknown. For this study, we generated transgenic lines which were introduced a DNA fragment containing Tamyb10-D1 gene and its a 2 kb promoter including the 5′ untranslated region into white-grained wheat. Transgenic lines showed red-grained and higher dormant traits. Contents of plant hormones and gene expression of embryos at 30 days after pollination were examined in a wild type and a transgenic line. No differences were observed in the contents of plant hormones, but several genes are differentially expressed between these lines. One differentially expressed gene, TaLTP2.128, is a member of non-specific lipid transfer proteins. It was expressed higher in white grains than in red grains. A putative amino acid sequence showed similarity to that of OsHyPRP5, which is identified as QTL controlling low-temperature germinability in rice. Expression of TaLTP2.128 was increased by grain imbibition. The increasing levels were higher not only in other white-grained lines, but also in non-dormant red-grained lines. TaLTP2.128 was expressed at a quite early stage of germination. These study findings indicate that Tamyb10 regulates dormancy release by the modification of TaLTP2.128 acting as trigger of germination.
Pollen as food: effects of consumption on tadpole growth, development, and mobility
Authors: Kloh Jéssica Stephanie , Figueredo Cleber Cunha , Calaça Paula , Eterovick Paula Cabral
Published: January 2024

The structure of many aquatic food webs is influenced by tadpole survivorship and duration of seasonal occupancy, which depend on tadpole diet. Pollen has been occasionally reported to occur in tadpole diets, and the available studies show that tadpoles have a strong preference for this supposedly nutritive resource. Thus, we aimed to test whether a diet composed of pollen from varied plant species would boost tadpole growth, development, and agility/mobility, compared to a regular artificial balanced and nutritive diet. Tadpoles in initial developmental stages 25 and 30 grew more when fed with pollen, compared to artificial food and a mixture of both diets. Those initially in stage 30 advanced more developmental stages during one month when fed exclusively with pollen. Tadpoles fed with pollen moved longer distances in response to an aversive stimulus simulating a predatory attack than tadpoles fed with artificial food or a mixed diet. Our results corroborate the hypotheses of pollen being a very important food source to aquatic consumers such as tadpoles, being likely to influence the structure of aquatic food webs through tadpole nutrition and modulation of growth/development speed, as well as tadpole ability to escape predators.
An Archaeology of the Pomeranian Crime of 1939: The Case of Mass Crimes in the Szpęgawski Forest (Poland)
Authors: Kobiałka Dawid , Ceran Tomasz , Mazanowska Izabela , Wysocka Joanna , Czarnik Michał , Nita Daniel , Kostyrko Mikołaj , Jankowski Tomasz
Published: January 2024

This article presents the general historical context of the mass shootings in the fall of 1939 in the pre-war Gdańsk Pomerania, Poland, and introduces the very term “Pomeranian Crime of 1939.” The executions in the Szpęgawski Forest, where between 2,413 and 7,000 people lost their lives, illustrate of the process itself. The results of archaeological research carried out at the site of the mass killings in the Szpęgawski Forest in 2023 is used as a case study. Archaeological research is shedding new light on the crime and its cover-up through analyses of the material evidence.
Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) for Italy: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Social Skills Intervention for Autistic Adolescents
Authors: Fatta Laura Maria , Laugeson Elizabeth A. , Bianchi Dora ,   Italian Peers® team support group, Laghi Fiorenzo , Scattoni Maria Luisa
Published: January 2024

The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is an intervention targeting social skills for autistic adolescents and those with other social challenges. The efficacy of the PEERS® on adolescents has been extensively explored but the program has not been validated in Italy. In the present study, we adapted PEERS® to Italian culture and evaluated its efficacy in an Italian sample. A Randomized Controlled Trial was conducted, analyzing the results of 37 autistic adolescents who were randomly assigned to two groups: experimental group (TG) and waitlist group (WL). The primary outcomes (social abilities) and secondary outcomes (co-occurring conditions, executive functions) were assessed at four time points. No differences were found at pre-treatment between groups on baseline measures and primary outcomes. At post-treatment, significant group differences emerged in primary outcomes (social knowledge and social performance) and secondary outcomes (emotion regulation). The groups’ results pooled together (TG + WL) confirmed the findings at post-treatment and showed further changes in primary outcomes (global social competence and social cognition) and secondary outcomes (externalizing problems, emotive and behavioral total problems, functional problems related to depressive symptoms). The improvements were maintained at a 3-month follow-up, except for global social competence and social cognition. Additionally, new results emerged regarding internalizing problems and global executive functioning. The efficacy of the Italian version of PEERS® was ascertained on primary and secondary outcomes. Innovative findings on emotion regulation, behavioral problems, and depression symptoms also emerged.

Clinical trial registration information Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) for Italy. An RCT’s Study on Social Skills Intervention for Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). URL: http://clinicaltrials.gov. TRN: NCT05473104. Release Date: July 21, 2022.
Oxide scale microstructure and failure mechanism of alloy 601 under varying metal dusting conditions
Authors: Schlereth C. , Weiser M. , White E. , Felfer P. , Galetz M.
Published: January 2024

Chemical plants which process highly carbonaceous gases at elevated temperatures are prone to catastrophic corrosion by metal dusting. Typically, commercial alloys with high amounts of protective oxide scale formers (Cr, Al, and Si) are used in these environments. However, scale failure is still frequently observed after an incubation time initiating pits. In this study, the microstructure and subsequent metal dusting-induced failure of the oxide scale on the commercial Ni-based alloy 601 was analyzed. Samples were exposed in different aggressive metal dusting gases and characterized using metallographic cross sections, electron beam microanalysis (EPMA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A thin and protective chromia scale formed in some regions with a continuous silica layer below. Across most of the alloy 601 surfaces, internal oxidation of Al could be linked to metallic particles in the outer scale. Additionally, MnCr2O4 was observed in the outer scale. Together with pores in the chromia, the spinel and metallic particles in the outer scale combined to provide pathways for carbon ingress. After exposure in a gas with a higher driving force for carbon deposition, a higher amount of carbon was incorporated in the growing oxide scale, resulting in earlier scale failure and metal dusting pit initiation.

Graphical Abstract
COVID-19 vaccine refusal as unfair free-riding
Authors: Kelsall Joshua
Published: January 2024

Contributions to COVID-19 vaccination programmes promise valuable collective goods. They can support public and individual health by creating herd immunity and taking the pressure off overwhelmed public health services; support freedom of movement by enabling governments to remove restrictive lockdown policies; and improve economic and social well-being by allowing businesses, schools, and other essential public services to re-open. The vaccinated can contribute to the production of these goods. The unvaccinated, who benefit from, but who do not contribute to these goods can be morally criticised as free-riders. In this paper defends the claim that in the case of COVID-19, the unvaccinated are unfair free-riders. I defend the claim against two objections. First, that they are not unfair free-riders because they lack the subjective attitudes and intentions of free-riders; second, that although the unvaccinated may be free-riders, their free-riding is not unfair.
An analysis of different concepts of “identity” in the heritable genome editing debate
Authors: Liaw Ying-Qi
Published: January 2024

Human heritable genome editing (HHGE) involves editing the genes of human gametes and/or early human embryos. Whilst ‘identity’ is a key concept underpinning the current HHGE debate, there is a lack of inclusive analysis on different concepts of ‘identity’ which renders the overall debate confusing at times. This paper first contributes to reviewing the existing literature by consolidating how ‘identity’ has been discussed in the HHGE debate. Essentially, the discussion will reveal an ontological and empirical understanding of identity when different types of identity are involved. Here, I discuss genetic, numerical, qualitative and narrative and how each of them is relevant in the HHGE context. Secondly, given the different types of identity, the paper explores how we could navigate these different interpretations of identity in a way that promotes an inclusive and informed discussion between primary stakeholders and the general public in the HHGE debate. Here, I argue for and refine a multi-faceted concept of identity as a suitable framework for discussing the ethical and societal implications of HHGE because it not only could integrate different understandings of identity but also highlight the interconnectedness between these different understandings.
Mapping the German Diamond Open Access Journal Landscape
Authors: Taubert Niels , Sterzik Linda , Bruns Andre
Published: January 2024

In the current scientific and political discourse surrounding the transformation of the scientific publication system, significant attention is focused on Diamond Open Access (OA). Diamond OA is characterized by no charges for readers or authors and relies on monetary allowances and voluntary work. This article explores the potential and challenges of Diamond OA journals, using Germany as a case study. Two key questions are addressed: first, the current role of such journals in the scientific publication system is determined through bibliometric analysis across various disciplines. Second, an investigation is conducted to assess the sustainability of Diamond OA journals and identify associated structural problems or potential breaking points. This investigation includes an in-depth expert interview study involving 20 editors of Diamond OA journals. The empirical results are presented using a landscape map that considers two dimensions: 'monetized and gift-based completion of tasks' and 'journal team size.' The bibliometric analysis reveals a substantial number of Diamond OA journals in the social sciences and humanities, but limited adoption in other fields. The model proves effective for small to mid-sized journals, but not for larger ones. Additionally, it was found that 23 Diamond OA journals have recently discontinued their operations. The expert interviews demonstrate the diversity within the landscape and the usefulness of the two dimensions in understanding key differences. Journals in two of the four quadrants of the map exemplify sustainable conditions, while the other two quadrants raise concerns about long-term stability. These concerns include limited funding leading to a lack of division of labor and an excessive burden on highly committed members. Gift-like contributions, while appealing, also present challenges as potential donors not only decide whether to contribute but also how to contribute, potentially creating friction between the gift and the journal's requirements. Furthermore, journals in the lower right quadrant often rely on third-party funding, necessitating a transformation once the funding expires. Common pathways for sustaining operations include lobbying for funding at the journal's home institution or increasing reliance on gift-based completion of tasks. These findings underscore the need for the development of more sustainable funding models to ensure the success of Diamond OA journals.
Effect of drought stress on the physiology and early growth of seven Senegalia (Acacia) Senegal (L.) Britton provenances
Authors: Sarr Mame S. , Seiler John R. , Sullivan Jay
Published: January 2024

Decline of Senegalia senegal (Acacia senegal) in its natural range has been observed and attributed mainly to harsh environmental conditions such as frequent drought occurrences. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of water stress on growth, biomass allocation and photosynthetic capacity in Senegalia senegal seedlings. Seeds were collected from seven provenances in Senegal and grown under greenhouse conditions in a randomized complete block design with 5 replications. Seedlings were subjected to three cyclic droughts by watering them when average soil moisture content dropped to 4.7%, 2.7%, and 2.1% during the first, second, and third dry down cycles, respectively. With the exception of net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration at the second and third dry down cycles, no drought by provenance interaction was found for any trait measured. Ngane provenance had a lower root/shoot ratio and allometric analysis revealed that Ngane allocated less biomass to roots than shoots. Ngane developed superior growth traits and biomass production, despite similar net photosynthetic rate with other provenances before treatments started. Overall, drought stress significantly reduced biomass, stem height, diameter and leaf gas exchange. Total biomass was reduced by 28.5%, whereas root/shoot ratio was increased by 25% compared to control. Significant interaction on leaf gas exchanges at the second and third dry down cycles reveals different sensitivity levels to drought among provenances with the Ranerou provenance exhibiting no decline in leaf gas exchange. No significant difference of stomatal limitation among genotypes was found, which is indicative of the complex process of photosynthesis and the need for extended times scales for measurements to better depict physiological sensitivity of Senegalia senegal to drought.