bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model organisms and systems in neuroethology: one hundred years of history and a look into the future
Authors: Wagner Hermann , Egelhaaf Martin , Carr Catherine
Published: January 2024

The Journal of Comparative Physiology lived up to its name in the last 100 years by including more than 1500 different taxa in almost 10,000 publications. Seventeen phyla of the animal kingdom were represented. The honeybee (Apis mellifera) is the taxon with most publications, followed by locust (Locusta migratoria), crayfishes (Cambarus spp.), and fruitfly (Drosophila melanogaster). The representation of species in this journal in the past, thus, differs much from the 13 model systems as named by the National Institutes of Health (USA). We mention major accomplishments of research on species with specific adaptations, specialist animals, for example, the quantitative description of the processes underlying the axon potential in squid (Loligo forbesii) and the isolation of the first receptor channel in the electric eel (Electrophorus electricus) and electric ray (Torpedo spp.). Future neuroethological work should make the recent genetic and technological developments available for specialist animals. There are many research questions left that may be answered with high yield in specialists and some questions that can only be answered in specialists. Moreover, the adaptations of animals that occupy specific ecological niches often lend themselves to biomimetic applications. We go into some depth in explaining our thoughts in the research of motion vision in insects, sound localization in barn owls, and electroreception in weakly electric fish.
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors with PIT1/SF1 co-expression show distinct clinicopathological and molecular features
Authors: Dottermusch Matthias , Ryba Alice , Ricklefs Franz L. , Flitsch Jörg , Schmid Simone , Glatzel Markus , Saeger Wolfgang , Neumann Julia E. , Schüller Ulrich
Published: January 2024

Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are classified according to cell lineage, which requires immunohistochemistry for adenohypophyseal hormones and the transcription factors (TFs) PIT1, SF1, and TPIT. According to the current WHO 2022 classification, PitNETs with co-expression of multiple TFs are termed “plurihormonal”. Previously, PIT1/SF1 co-expression was prevailingly reported in PitNETs, which otherwise correspond to the somatotroph lineage. However, little is known about such tumors and the WHO classification has not recognized their significance. We compiled an in-house case series of 100 tumors, previously diagnosed as somatotroph PitNETs. Following TF staining, histopathological features associated with PIT1/SF1 co-expression were assessed. Integration of in-house and publicly available sample data allowed for a meta-analysis of SF1-associated clinicopathological and molecular features across a total of 270 somatotroph PitNETs. The majority (74%, 52/70) of our densely granulated somatotroph PitNETs (DGST) unequivocally co-expressed PIT1 and SF1 (DGST-PIT1/SF1). None (0%, 0/30) of our sparsely granulated somatotroph PitNETs (SGST) stained positive for SF1 (SGST-PIT1). Among DGST, PIT1/SF1 co-expression was significantly associated with scarce FSH/LH expression and fewer fibrous bodies compared to DGST-PIT1. Integrated molecular analyses including publicly available samples confirmed that DGST-PIT1/SF1, DGST-PIT1 and SGST-PIT1 represent distinct tumor subtypes. Clinicopathological meta-analyses indicated that DGST-PIT1 respond more favorably towards treatment with somatostatin analogs compared to DGST-PIT1/SF1, while both these subtypes show an overall less aggressive clinical course than SGST-PIT1. In this study, we spotlight that DGST with co-expression of PIT1 and SF1 represent a common, yet underrecognized, distinct PitNET subtype. Our study questions the rationale of generally classifying such tumors as “plurihormonal”, and calls for a refinement of the WHO classification. We propose the term “somatogonadotroph PitNET”.
Incidence of second malignancies in patients with thymic carcinoma and thymic neuroendocrine tumor
Authors: Qiu Guanghao , Wang Fuqiang , Wang Yun
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Thymic carcinoma and thymic neuroendocrine tumor (NET) are rare and are more likely to develop second malignancies. The purpose of this study was to explore the incidence and lifetime risk of second malignancies in thymic carcinoma and thymic NET.

Methods

The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) and the age-adjusted cancer incidence of the thymic carcinoma and thymic NET patients with second malignancies were retrospectively calculated by using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Prognosis results were also determined by Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox regression.

Results

1130 patients with thymic carcinoma (73 patients had second malignancies) and 263 patients with thymic NET (19 patients had second malignancies) from 2000 to 2018 are included. Patients with thymic carcinoma (SIR: 1.36, 95% CI 1.08–1.69) and with thymic NET (SIR: 1.73, 95% CI 1.13–2.54) demonstrate an increased overall risk of developing second malignancies in various organ systems. The age-adjusted cancer incidence of second malignancies in patients with thymic carcinoma is 3058.48 per 100,000 persons (4178.46 per 100,000 persons in patients with thymic NET). Age at diagnosis is a significant risk factor for the development of second malignancies.

Conclusion

The incidence of second malignancies in patients with thymic carcinoma and thymic NET is significantly higher than the patients in the normal population. The occurrence of second malignancies is not related to the use of different treatments. It is important to extend the follow-up period and add other screening methods.
‘What’s in a name’, a systematic review of the pterional craniotomy for aneurysm surgery and its many modifications with a proposal for simplified nomenclature
Authors: Candy Nicholas G. , Van Der Veken Jorn , Van Velthoven Vera
Published: January 2024

Background

The pterional or frontosphenotemporal craniotomy has stood the test of time and continues to be a commonly used method of managing a variety of neurosurgical pathology. Already described in the beginning of the twentieth century and perfected by Yasargil in the 1970s, it has seen many modifications. These modifications have been a normal evolution for most neurosurgeons, tailoring the craniotomy to the patients’ specific anatomy and pathology. Nonetheless, an abundance of variations have appeared in the literature.

Methods

A search strategy was devised according to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. To identify articles investigating the variations in the pterional approach, the following search terms were applied: (pterional OR minipterional OR supraorbital) AND (approach OR craniotomy OR technique).

Results

In total, 3552 articles were screened with 74 articles being read in full with 47 articles being included for review. Each article was examined according the name of the technique, temporalis dissection technique, craniotomy technique and approach.

Conclusion

This systematic review gives an overview of the different techniques and modifications to the pterional craniotomy since it was initially described. We advocate for the use of a more standardised nomenclature that focuses on the target zone to simplify the management approach to supratentorial aneurysms.
A critical moment in machine learning in medicine: on reproducible and interpretable learning
Authors: Ciobanu-Caraus Olga , Aicher Anatol , Kernbach Julius M. , Regli Luca , Serra Carlo , Staartjes Victor E.
Published: January 2024

Over the past two decades, advances in computational power and data availability combined with increased accessibility to pre-trained models have led to an exponential rise in machine learning (ML) publications. While ML may have the potential to transform healthcare, this sharp increase in ML research output without focus on methodological rigor and standard reporting guidelines has fueled a reproducibility crisis. In addition, the rapidly growing complexity of these models compromises their interpretability, which currently impedes their successful and widespread clinical adoption. In medicine, where failure of such models may have severe implications for patients’ health, the high requirements for accuracy, robustness, and interpretability confront ML researchers with a unique set of challenges. In this review, we discuss the semantics of reproducibility and interpretability, as well as related issues and challenges, and outline possible solutions to counteracting the “black box”. To foster reproducibility, standard reporting guidelines need to be further developed and data or code sharing encouraged. Editors and reviewers may equally play a critical role by establishing high methodological standards and thus preventing the dissemination of low-quality ML publications. To foster interpretable learning, the use of simpler models more suitable for medical data can inform the clinician how results are generated based on input data. Model-agnostic explanation tools, sensitivity analysis, and hidden layer representations constitute further promising approaches to increase interpretability. Balancing model performance and interpretability are important to ensure clinical applicability. We have now reached a critical moment for ML in medicine, where addressing these issues and implementing appropriate solutions will be vital for the future evolution of the field.
Accessibility of large events: an empirical study of the Expo 2020 Dubai
Authors: Jiménez-Andres María
Published: January 2024

Event management is a growing sector in the tourism industry and one of the fastest growing industries in the world. The sector contributes significantly to global economies and provides substantial employment opportunities. Events are spaces for social interaction, education, leisure and opportunities. More recently, interest is being placed in making events accessible, yet the emerging body of research on accessibility, inclusion and diversity in events is still scarce. The objective of this paper is to contribute to understanding the accessibility of large events in an increasingly technology-dependent industry. With this purpose in mind, an evaluation of the accessibility of the Expo 2020 in Dubai has been conducted. Expos are events that showcase the latest technologies and innovation, are attended by million visitors and have hefty budgets. These factors make these events the ideal breeding ground for the implementation of advanced technologies. The study adopts a case study approach and draws on data from observation, in-depth interviews and online, qualitative questionnaires. The participants are people with disabilities (PwDs), the organizations in charge of the accessibility of the Expo and staff that worked at the event—some of whom were also PwDs. The experiences of PwDs at the event, the accessibility provision in place and the challenges and insights of accessibility experts involved are discussed, as well as the implications and recommendations for managing the accessibility of large events.
Developing the Lung Graph-Based Machine Learning Model for Identification of Fibrotic Interstitial Lung Diseases
Authors: Sun Haishuang , Liu Min , Liu Anqi , Deng Mei , Yang Xiaoyan , Kang Han , Zhao Ling , Ren Yanhong , Xie Bingbing , Zhang Rongguo , Dai Huaping
Published: January 2024

Accurate detection of fibrotic interstitial lung disease (f-ILD) is conducive to early intervention. Our aim was to develop a lung graph-based machine learning model to identify f-ILD. A total of 417 HRCTs from 279 patients with confirmed ILD (156 f-ILD and 123 non-f-ILD) were included in this study. A lung graph-based machine learning model based on HRCT was developed for aiding clinician to diagnose f-ILD. In this approach, local radiomics features were extracted from an automatically generated geometric atlas of the lung and used to build a series of specific lung graph models. Encoding these lung graphs, a lung descriptor was gained and became as a characterization of global radiomics feature distribution to diagnose f-ILD. The Weighted Ensemble model showed the best predictive performance in cross-validation. The classification accuracy of the model was significantly higher than that of the three radiologists at both the CT sequence level and the patient level. At the patient level, the diagnostic accuracy of the model versus radiologists A, B, and C was 0.986 (95% CI 0.959 to 1.000), 0.918 (95% CI 0.849 to 0.973), 0.822 (95% CI 0.726 to 0.904), and 0.904 (95% CI 0.836 to 0.973), respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in AUC values between the model and 3 physicians (p < 0.05). The lung graph-based machine learning model could identify f-ILD, and the diagnostic performance exceeded radiologists which could aid clinicians to assess ILD objectively.

Graphical Abstract

Given a sequence of HRCT slices from a patient, the lung field is first automatically extracted. Next, this lung region is divided into 36 sub-regions using geometric rules, obtaining a lung atlas. And then, the lung graph is built based on 3D radiomics features of each sub-region of the lung atlas. Finally, the model’s predictions were compared to the physicians’ assessment results.
Subjective Experiences of Pregnancy, Delivery, and Nursing in Transgender Men and Non-Binary Individuals: A Qualitative Analysis of Gender and Mental Health Concerns
Authors: Falck Felicitas A. O. K. , Dhejne Cecilia M. U. , Frisén Louise M. M. , Armuand Gabriela M.
Published: January 2024

Studies of how gender-diverse individuals experience pregnancy, childbirth, and nursing remain few, mainly focus on the US and contain scarce information about mental health concerns peri-partum. This hinders informed reproductive health decisions and counseling. We used in-depth interviews to examine how gestational gender-diverse individuals in Sweden experience the process of planning and undergoing pregnancy, delivery, and nursing. In total, 12 participants, identifying on the masculine side of the gender spectrum or as non-binary, who had attended Swedish antenatal care and delivered a live birth, were included in the study. Data were analyzed using qualitative thematic content analysis. The analysis resulted in one overarching theme: sustaining gender congruence during pregnancy and three main categories: (1) considering pregnancy; (2) undergoing pregnancy and childbirth; and (3) postnatal reflections. The association between childbearing and being regarded as female permeated narratives. Participants renegotiated the feminine connotations of pregnancy, accessed gender-affirming treatment, and concealed their pregnancy to safeguard their gender congruence. Mis-gendering and breast enlargement triggered gender dysphoria. Social judgment, loneliness, information shortages, hormonal influence and cessation of testosterone increased gender dysphoria and strained their mental health. Depression exacerbated gender dysphoria and made it harder to claim one’s gender identity. Dissociation was used to handle a feminized body, vaginal delivery, and nursing. Pregnancy was easier to envision and handle after masculinizing gender-affirming treatments. The results deepen the understanding of gender dysphoria and may be used to inform reproductive counseling and healthcare development. Research outcomes on mental health concerns provide a basis for further research.
Assessing the importance of primary care diagnoses in the UK Biobank
Authors: Clifton Lei , Liu Xiaonan , Collister Jennifer A , Littlejohns Thomas J , Allen Naomi , Hunter David J
Published: January 2024

The UK Biobank has made general practitioner (GP) data (censoring date 2016–2017) available for approximately 45% of the cohort, whilst hospital inpatient and death registry (referred to as “HES/Death”) data are available cohort-wide through 2018–2022 depending on whether the data comes from England, Wales or Scotland. We assessed the importance of case ascertainment via different data sources in UKB for three diseases that are usually first diagnosed in primary care: Parkinson’s disease (PD), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and all-cause dementia. Including GP data at least doubled the number of incident cases in the subset of the cohort with primary care data (e.g. from 619 to 1390 for dementia). Among the 786 dementia cases that were only captured in the GP data before the GP censoring date, only 421 (54%) were subsequently recorded in HES. Therefore, estimates of the absolute incidence or risk-stratified incidence are misleadingly low when based only on the HES/Death data. For incident cases present in both HES/Death and GP data during the full follow-up period (i.e. until the HES censoring date), the median time difference between an incident diagnosis of dementia being recorded in GP and HES/Death was 2.25 years (i.e. recorded 2.25 years earlier in the GP records). Similar lag periods were also observed for PD (median 2.31 years earlier) and T2D (median 2.82 years earlier). For participants with an incident GP diagnosis, only 65.6% of dementia cases, 69.0% of PD cases, and 58.5% of T2D cases had their diagnosis recorded in HES/Death within 7 years since GP diagnosis. The effect estimates (hazard ratios, HR) of established risk factors for the three health outcomes mostly remain in the same direction and with a similar strength of association when cases are ascertained either using HES only or further adding GP data. The confidence intervals of the HR became narrower when adding GP data, due to the increased statistical power from the additional cases. In conclusion, it is desirable to extend both the coverage and follow-up period of GP data to allow researchers to maximise case ascertainment of chronic health conditions in the UK.
Revisiting the Geochemical Classification of Zircon Source Rocks Using a Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Itano Keita , Sawada Hikaru
Published: January 2024

Trace element fingerprints preserved in zircons offer clues to their origin and crystallization conditions. Numerous geochemical indicators have been established to evaluate the source rock characteristics from a geochemical perspective; however, multivariate trace element data have not been sufficiently investigated statistically. As substantial amounts of zircon data from a wide range of rock types have become accessible over the past few decades, it is now essential to reassess the utility of trace elements in discriminating source rock types. We employed a new zircon trace element dataset and established classification models to distinguish eight types of source rocks: igneous (acidic, intermediate, basic, kimberlite, carbonatite, and nepheline syenite), metamorphic, and hydrothermal. Whereas a conventional decision tree analysis was unable to correctly classify the new dataset, the random forest and support vector machine algorithms achieved high-precision classifications (> 80% precision, recall, and F1 score). This work confirms that trace element composition is a helpful tool for province studies and mineral exploration using detrital zircons. However, the compiled dataset with many missing values leaves room for improving the models. Trace elements, such as P and Sc, which cannot be measured by quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, are vital for more accurate classification.
The first full study of heavy metal(loid)s in western-European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) from Portugal
Authors: Jota Baptista Catarina , Seixas Fernanda , Gonzalo-Orden José M. , Patinha Carla , Pato Pedro , Ferreira da Silva Eduardo , Casero María , Brazio Erica , Brandão Ricardo , Costa Daniela , Mateus Teresa L. , Coelho Ana C. , Oliveira Paula. A.
Published: January 2024

The western-European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is an insectivore with a wide distribution in Portugal and a potential tool for biomonitoring relevant One Health hazards, including heavy metal(loid)s’ pollution. The aim of this study was to positively contribute to the current knowledge about the metal(loid) pollution in Portugal. Forty-six hedgehogs (from rescue centres; with known provenance) were necropsied. Sex, age category and weight were determined. Spines, liver and kidney were collected, and metalloid concentrations were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrophotometry (ICP-MS). In general, results did not present alarming metal(loid) concentrations, with the exception of cadmium (Cd) (in the kidneys) and copper (Cu). Hedgehogs from Viana do Castelo and Viseu showed elevated concentrations of arsenic (As) and Castelo Branco presented concerning values of cadmium (Cd). Adult and heavier hedgehogs tended to present higher levels of metal(loid)s. Sex does not seem to significantly affect the metal(loid)s’ concentrations. Further analysis would be needed to prioritize areas with detail and allow the application of the necessary mitigation strategies.
Arbeitsweltbezogene Positionierungen Jugendlicher im Kontext sozialer Benachteiligung
Authors: Hirschfeld Heidi , Lenz Bianca , Walther Andreas
Published: January 2024

Übergänge benachteiligter Jugendlicher und junger Erwachsener, denen der Übergang in eine anerkannte und subjektiv zufriedenstellende Ausbildung und/oder Erwerbsarbeit nicht bruchlos gelingt, werden durch institutionelle Übergangshilfen unter Beteiligung von und Rekurs auf sozialpädagogische Praxis reguliert und prozessiert. Im Kontext des aktivierenden Wohlfahrtsstaats erfolgt dies zunehmend durch individualisierte Fallführung und „Hilfen aus einer Hand“. Mit dem Konzept der arbeitsweltbezogenen Positionierung fragt der Beitrag, wie sich Arbeitsorientierungen und Berufsperspektiven Jugendlicher und junger Erwachsener in einem Wechselverhältnis des Positioniert-Werdens und Sich-Positionierens formieren. Im Beitrag wird zunächst vor dem Hintergrund des deutschsprachigen Forschungsstands zu Arbeitsorientierungen und Berufsperspektiven junger Menschen und des Konzepts Doing Transitions die Heuristik arbeitsweltbezogene Positionierung entwickelt. Anschließend werden im Sinne eines minimal-kontrastiven Vergleichs Entwicklungen institutioneller Fallführung der Übergänge benachteiligter Jugendlicher in Deutschland und der Schweiz beschrieben und an jeweils zwei Fällen ihr Beitrag zu Prozessen arbeitsweltbezogener Positionierung rekonstruiert.
Low expression of PRRG2 in kidney renal clear cell carcinoma: an immune infiltration-associated prognostic biomarker
Authors: Tang Gonglin , Ding Guixin , Wu Gang , Wang Xiaofeng , Wang Tianqi , Zou Qingsong , Sun Kai , Wu Jitao
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aims to explore the prognostic significance of Proline-rich γ-carboxyglutamic acid protein 2 (PRRG2) in Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma (KIRC), a prevalent and deadly cancer, and its association with immune cell infiltration, a key strategy in developing effective biomarkers.

Methods

The study meticulously elucidated the prognostic significance and potential role of PRRG2 in KIRC, correlating its expression with patient sex, age, metastasis, and pathological stage. Utilizing Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), the involvement of PRRG2 in immune response was investigated. The association between PRRG2 expression and immune cell infiltration was also scrutinized. Ultimately, cellular and tissue identity were confirmed via immunohistochemical staining and quantitative real-time PCR.

Results

The study elucidates a notable decrease in PRRG2 expression in KIRC patients, correlating with demographic factors, metastasis, and pathological staging, and portending an unfavorable prognosis. Bioinformatic analyses underscore PRRG2’s role in immune response, with its expression significantly tied to immune cell infiltration and marker expression.

Conclusion

PRRG2 may potentially impact prognosis in KIRC patients by regulating immune infiltration, thus rendering PRRG2 a promising candidate prognostic biomarker for KIRC-associated immune infiltration.
Advertisement by medical facilities as an opportunity route of APOE genetic testing in Japan: a website analysis
Authors: Sato Kenichiro , Niimi Yoshiki , Ihara Ryoko , Iwata Atsushi , Ikeuchi Takeshi , Iwatsubo Takeshi
Published: January 2024

The APOE-ε4 allele(s) is a strong risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A significant point of access for this allele testing is through services provided by medical facilities in Japan, which advertise out-of-insurance APOE testing on their websites. There is a concern that website advertisements for APOE testing may influence the ability for individuals to adequately self-determine whether to undergo APOE testing. We conducted a cross-sectional survey on medical facility websites in Japan advertising APOE genetic testing. We predefined desirable features for advertisement descriptions based on legal regulations and guidelines published by relevant professional societies and evaluated each website according to these features. We identified 220 medical facilities that had posted advertisements on their websites for the provision of APOE genetic testing, of which 85% were small clinics. Contact information, details, and costs of testing were described in most of the websites. Meanwhile, features such as “explaining APOE as a risk gene,” “notes on interpreting APOE results,” or “explaining examination methods” (e.g., blood sampling) were described to a variable degree depending on individual facilities. “Notes on genetic testing” or “referring to genetic counseling” were hardly referred to, and specialists with appropriate expertise were considered to participate in clinical practice in approximately one-third of these facilities providing APOE testing services. These website evaluation results showed moderate to substantial reliability between independent raters. These results suggest that self-determination of pursuing out-of-insurance APOE testing at some medical facilities in Japan may possibly be influenced in an inappropriate manner, at least in its entry route of taking the test.
Hardly Venus’s servant—morphological adaptations of Veneriserva to an endoparasitic lifestyle and its phylogenetic position within Dorvilleidae (Annelida)
Authors: Tilic Ekin , Rouse Greg W.
Published: January 2024

Endoparasitic annelids living inside another annelid host are known, particularly with regard to Oenonidae, but in general are poorly studied. The dorvilleid Veneriserva pygoclava is known from southern California, and its genus name (Latin = Venus’s servant) alludes to the close association with the host aphroditid scaleworm Aphrodita longipalpa. Little is known on fundamental questions on the biology of Veneriserva pygoclava. What is its mode of reproduction? How do they feed? How do they penetrate the host? We have studied multiple parasitized hosts and V. pygoclava specimens, using an integrative approach, combining µCT, histology, and electron microscopy. 3D reconstructions from µCT data of a parasitized Aphrodita show the exact position of the parasites in their natural condition within the host’s coelomic cavity. Ultrastructural investigations of the parasites revealed interesting adaptations to their lifestyle such as the complete reduction of their gut, despite the presence of a functional jaw apparatus and a modified epidermis enabling nutrient uptake from the host’s coelomic fluid. In addition to these, we also investigated spermatogenesis and oogenesis in V. pygoclava. Sperm morphology indicates an external fertilization of eggs within the coelomic cavity of the host. Mature male and female parasites living inside the same mature host and the presence of juvenile V. pygoclava within juveniles of Aphrodita suggest an obligate form of parasitism with a very early penetration of the hosts. In addition to our detailed morphological investigation, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis showing the position of Veneriserva within Dorvilleidae and its position was recovered nested among taxa of the Iphitime. Our phylogenetic analyses also show that the taxation Ophryotrocha puerilis siberti should be given full species rank and referred to as Ophryotrocha siberti. Finally, we publish here the full mitochondrial genome of V. pygoclava and discuss its novel gene order with reference to other annelids.
Modeling and Simulation of Elevation Dynamics of Main Battle Tank Weapon System with Linear Graph Method
Authors: Cakir Muhammed Fatih , Sezer Semih , Bayraktar Meral
Published: January 2024

The use of main battle tanks in armies goes back many years. The most crucial component is undoubtedly the weapon system. In this study, it is aimed to model the elevation dynamics of the weapon system that provides the movement of the weapon system in the vertical axis. The elevation dynamics consists of three parts: an electric motor, a driver, and a barrel. Both parts are expected to have similar vibration characteristics. The linear graph method was preferred as the modeling method. First of all, the system components and types were determined, and the linear graph, normal tree, and tree links of the system were drawn. Then the state variables, primary and secondary variables, as well as the number of branches, nodes, and sources, were determined, respectively. Elemental, continuity, and compatibility equations were written using the obtained graphs. By organizing these equations, state equations were obtained in standard form and matrix form. With the simulation studies carried out in MATLAB/Simulink, the displacement, velocity, and acceleration responses of the breech and muzzle sections were obtained. It is seen that obtained angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration results for both breech and muzzle sections are almost the same. As a result, the breech and muzzle sections have similar vibration motions and have proven to be able to work in harmony. This result shows that the barrel can be designed from two parts without additional stress and tension, which makes it difficult to focus on the target. By forming the barrel in two parts, the risk of damage can be minimized by better distributing the stress and tension occurring in the barrel during firing.
Interaction mechanism between luteoloside and corn silk glycans and the synergistic role in hypoglycemic activity
Authors: Qin Shihui , Li Yanlang , Shao Huiyan , Yu Yang , Yang Yina , Zeng Yi , Huang Jia , Hu Jiang-miao , Yang Liu
Published: January 2024

As the two most principal active substances in the corn silk, polysaccharides and flavonoids, the mechanism of interaction between them has been a topic of intense research. This study provides an in-depth investigation of the interaction mechanism between corn silk glycans and luteoloside (LUT) and the synergistic role that result from this interaction. The interaction mechanism was evaluated by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) and circular dichroism (CD), and the synergistic role was evaluated by the expression of glucose transporters (GLUT-1), insulin secretion and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). CD and ITC results indicated that the interaction between CSGs and LUT mainly driven by the Cotton effects, enthalpy and entropy-driven. This interaction precipitated the formation of complexes (CSGs/LUT complexes) between corn silk glycans (CSGs) with four different molecular weights and luteoloside (LUT). Furthermore, the CSGs and LUT play a synergistic role in glucose regulation through GLUT-1 expression and insulin secretion experiments, compared to single luteoloside group.

Graphical Abstract
Existence of the solution of nonlinear fractional differential equations via new best proximity point results
Authors: Aslantaş Mustafa
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we obtain some best proximity point results by introducing the concepts of proximal p-contractions of the first type and proximal p -contractions of the second type on partial metric spaces. Thus, some famous results in the literature such as the main result of Altun et al. (Acta Math Hung 162:393–402, 2020) and Basha (J Approx Theory 163(11):1772–1781, 2011) have been extended. Also, we provide some examples where our results are applicable and the results in Haghi et al. (Topol Appl 160:450–454, 2013) are not. Hence, our results are a real generalization of some results in metric spaces and partial metric spaces. Finally, we obtain sufficient conditions for the existence of the solution of nonlinear fractional differential equations via our results.
Gut Microbiota and Autoimmune Diseases: Mechanisms, Treatment, Challenges, and Future Recommendations
Authors: Sadeghpour Heravi Fatemah
Published: January 2024

Purpose of Review

This review provides an overview of the role of dysbiosis (imbalanced gut microbiota) in the maintenance of host homeostasis and immune function and summarizes recent evidence connecting gut microbiota dysbiosis to the development of autoimmune diseases (ADs) (such as rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, spondyloarthritis, and irritable bowel syndrome). The potential mechanisms that underlie the host-microbiota interaction are also discussed to evaluate the manipulation of the gut microbiota as a potential therapeutic approach to managing ADs. Additionally, this review addresses current challenges in gut microbiota-host research and provides future recommendations.

Recent Findings

Recent findings suggested that the pathogenesis of ADs appears to be multifaceted involving both genetic and environmental factors. Dysbiosis or imbalanced gut microbiota has been increasingly identified as one of the main environmental factors that can modulate immune responses and contribute to the development of ADs.

New research has highlighted the significance of gut microbial dysbiosis in the etiology of numerous diseases. Understanding the relationship between the gut microbiota and the host, however, goes beyond taxonomic concerns, demanding multidisciplinary efforts to design new therapeutic approaches that take individual variances into account.
The efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine versus leflunomide in patients with IgA nephropathy: a single-center experience
Authors: He Wei-jie , Wang Juan , Liu Nan , Li Gu-yue , Zhu Xin-wang , Yao Li , Liu Lin-lin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To date, our understanding of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) pathophysiology has remained incomplete; therefore, treatment remains largely empiric, and the efficacy and safety of immunosuppressants remain controversial. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine and leflunomide therapy in a retrospective cohort of patients with IgAN.

Methods

We screened the IgAN registration database in our department, and a total of 159 kidney patients with biopsy-confirmed IgAN were enrolled, with 57 patients receiving hydroxychloroquine plus a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (hydroxychloroquine group), 52 patients receiving leflunomide plus a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (leflunomide group), and 50 patients receiving only a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor (renin-angiotensin system inhibitor-only group). Changes in proteinuria, hematuria, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), as well as adverse events, were analyzed during the follow-up period.

Results

At the end of 6-month follow-up, proteinuria significantly decreased by 70.36 (57.54, 79.33)%, 57.29 (46.79, 67.29)% and 41.20 (25.76, 48.94)% in the hydroxychloroquine, leflunomide and renin-angiotensin system inhibitor-only groups, respectively, compared to baseline (all P values < 0.001). Hematuria significantly decreased by 71.07 (56.48, 82.47)% in the leflunomide group (P < 0.001). The eGFR improved by 3.72 ± 2.97%, 3.16 ± 2.00% and 1.91 ± 2.41%, respectively, in the hydroxychloroquine, leflunomide and renin-angiotensin system inhibitor-only groups, but without statistical significance. No serious adverse events occurred during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

Both hydroxychloroquine combined with a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor and leflunomide combined with a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor were more effective than a renin-angiotensin system inhibitor alone in improving proteinuria in IgAN patients. Hydroxychloroquine was more effective in reducing proteinuria, and leflunomide showed superiority in reducing hematuria. Our results need to be verified in large-scale randomized controlled trials.

Graphical abstract
Modelling sludge dewatering in treatment reed bed considering sludge deposit formation
Authors: Huong Yu Zhe , Tan Yee Yong , Tang Fu Ee , Saptoro Agus
Published: January 2024

The accumulation of sludge deposits is a crucial factor in the dewatering efficiency of sludge treatment reed bed (STRB). This paper presents an improved one-dimensional process-based mathematical model to simulate the dewatering mechanism in STRBs, in which the compressible cake filtration (CCF) theory was implemented to simulate the sludge deposits accumulation on the surface of the reed bed, while the varying sludge deposit thickness was accounted for using the moving mesh method. The proposed model also included the dual porosity variably saturated flow model and the Penman–Monteith equation to describe the dewatering through gravity drainage and evapotranspiration, respectively. The results from the model were validated with experimental data from laboratory-scale STRBs treating septage. The simulation results showed that considering the sludge deposit layer as a specific flow resistance effectively avoids the overprediction of water infiltration rate in the reed bed. The predicted results showed excellent agreement with the actual data, where only five cases of the root mean square error were above 10% compared to the average effluent flux. Further, the effect of evapotranspiration was found to be insignificant within a short-term simulation. The consideration of the influence of sludge deposit formation on drainage dewatering using the CCF model and moving mesh model has delivered a more robust simulation for sludge dewatering in STRBs, and the proposed model is capable of facilitating the understanding of the interactions between the sludge dewatering in STRB with respect to the bed characteristics, hydraulic load, and solid load.
Association Between Socioeconomic Position and Depression, Anxiety and Eating Disorders in University Students: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mac-Ginty Scarlett , Lira Daniela , Lillo Ignacio , Moraga Esteban , Cáceres Cesar , Araya Ricardo , Prina Matthew
Published: January 2024

The high prevalence of mental disorders in university students emphasizes the need to explore contributing factors. While socioeconomic position affects mental health in the general population, it is crucial to investigate if the same applies to university students. MEDLINE-Ovid, Embase-Ovid and PsycINFO databases were searched. All original peer-reviewed observational studies quantifying the association between socioeconomic position and depression, anxiety or eating disorders were included without language or date restrictions. After initial screening, eligible studies were selected, data was extracted using a spreadsheet, and their quality was assessed with the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. The results were synthesized narratively. Seventy-eight of 20,465 records identified were included. Most studies were published in English and originated from high and upper-middle-income countries. The most common socioeconomic indicators were family socioeconomic status/class, financial stress, and parental education. Most studies found a positive association between socioeconomic indicators and depressive and anxiety symptoms, but not eating disorders. The quality of the studies was mixed, with a small proportion using validated measurement tools and appropriate sample sizes. This study highlights the importance of measuring socioeconomic position accurately and applying new methods that can reveal the causal pathways and interactions of multiple identities that shape mental health disparities for the university student population.

Preregistration A protocol for this review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022247394).
Development and Validation of a Simple Tool for Predicting Pandemic-Related Psychological Distress Among Health Care Workers
Authors: Adorjan Kristina , Dong Mark Sen , Wratil Paul R. , Schmacke Niklas A. , Weinberger Tobias , Steffen Julius , Osterman Andreas , Choukér Alexander , Mueller Tonina T. , Jebrini Tarek , Wiegand Hauke Felix , Tüscher Oliver , Lieb Klaus , Hornung Veit , Falkai Peter , Klein Matthias , Keppler Oliver T. , Koutsouleris Nikolaos
Published: January 2024

We aimed to develop a simple predictive model that enables health care workers (HCWs) to self-assess pandemic-related psychological distress in order to assist them to find psychological support to avert adverse distress-related outcomes. In a pilot study, we recruited and followed longitudinally 220 HCWs at the Hospital of the Ludwig Maximilian University Munich (H-LMU) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (March–July 2020). In this sample, we evaluated whether a machine-learning model with sociodemographic, epidemiological, and psychological data could predict levels of pandemic-related psychological distress. To maximise clinical utility, we derived a brief, 10-variable model to monitor distress risk and inform about the use of individualised preventive interventions. The validity of the model was assessed in a subsequent cross-sectional study cohort (May–August 2020) consisting of 7554 HCWs at the H-LMU who were assessed for depressiveness after the first wave of the pandemic.The model predicted psychological distress at 12 weeks with a balanced accuracy (BAC) of 75.0% (sensitivity, 73.2%; specificity, 76.8%) and an increase in prognostic certainty of 41%. In the derivation cohort, the brief model maintained a BAC of 75.6% and predicted depressiveness (P < .001), resilience (p.001), and coping (p < .001). Furthermore, it accurately stratified HCWs’ psychological trajectories of global and affective burden as well as behavioural adaptation over the 12-week follow-up period. Our clinically scalable, 10-variable model predicts individual COVID-19 pandemic-related psychological distress outcomes. HCWs may use our associated predictive tool to monitor personal and team-based risk and learn about risk preventive interventions based on an intuitive risk stratification.
Deep learning in terrestrial conservation biology
Authors: Barta Zoltán
Published: January 2024

Biodiversity is being lost at an unprecedented rate on Earth. As a first step to more effectively combat this process we need efficient methods to monitor biodiversity changes. Recent technological advance can provide powerful tools (e.g. camera traps, digital acoustic recorders, satellite imagery, social media records) that can speed up the collection of biological data. Nevertheless, the processing steps of the raw data served by these tools are still painstakingly slow. A new computer technology, deep learning based artificial intelligence, might, however, help. In this short and subjective review I oversee recent technological advances used in conservation biology, highlight problems of processing their data, shortly describe deep learning technology and show case studies of its use in conservation biology. Some of the limitations of the technology are also highlighted.
Completing Humanity
Authors: Özsu Umut
Published: January 2024

After the Second World War, the dissolution of European empires and emergence of 'new states' in Asia, Africa, Oceania, and elsewhere necessitated large-scale structural changes in international legal order. In Completing Humanity, Umut Özsu recounts the history of the struggle to transform international law during the twentieth century's last major wave of decolonization. Commencing in 1960, with the General Assembly's landmark decolonization resolution, and concluding in 1982, with the close of the third UN Conference on the Law of the Sea and the onset of the Latin American debt crisis, the book examines the work of elite international lawyers from newly independent states alongside that of international law specialists from 'First World' and socialist states. A study in modifications to legal theory and doctrine over time, it documents and reassesses post-1945 decolonization from the standpoint of the 'Third World' and the jurists who elaborated and defended its interests.
The effect of a hiding space on the behaviour and heart rate variability of dairy calves during temporary separation from the dam
Authors: Spitzer Hannah B , Meagher Rebecca K , Lynne O’Sullivan M , Montelpare William , Gordon Miriam B , McKenna Shawn LB , Proudfoot Kathryn L
Published: January 2024

In natural settings, newborn calves hide for several days before joining the herd. It is unclear whether dairy calves housed indoors would show similar hiding behaviour. This study aimed to describe the use of an artificial hide provided to calves during temporary separation from the dam and assess the effect it has on lying and sleep-like behaviour, as well as heart rate variability (HRV). Twenty-eight cow-calf pairs were randomly assigned to having a hide (n = 14), or no hide (n = 14). Hide use (n = 14), as well as lying and sleep-like behaviour (n = 28), were recorded continuously via video camera during the first hour after the dam was removed for morning milking on day three to seven. Heart rate and R-R intervals were recorded using Polar equine monitors for a subsample of 12 calves (n = 6 per treatment) on day six. Descriptive statistics were calculated for hide use. Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests were used to evaluate whether having a hide affected lying and sleep-like behaviours as well as HRV. Hide use decreased over days and was highly variable between calves. Lying behaviour did not differ between treatments. Duration of sleep-like behaviour was higher for calves without a hide compared to those with a hide. Calves with a hide tended to show signs of higher HRV and parasympathetic activity compared to calves without a hide. Results suggest that providing a hiding space to young calves may be beneficial during periods when the cow is removed from the pen for milking.
Repeated risky choices become more consistent with themselves but not expected value, with no effect of matched trial order
Authors: Spicer Jake , Mullett Timothy L. , Sanborn Adam N.
Published: January 2024

Choices made in risky scenarios are considered fundamentally noisy because decisions have often been found to be inconsistent when repeated. Past measures of noise may, however, be confounded by the use of randomized contextual factors that are known to influence choice, in particular, the order of trials. In two experiments, we control trial order to test the extent to which inconsistent choice is attributable to changes in experimental context. Both tasks find strong evidence that trial order has no effect on choice consistency, indicating such experimental factors have little influence on behavior compared with internal noise. Choices also showed an increase in consistency across multiple repetitions, suggesting a fall in noise with experience, but this increase was not associated with any improvement in performance, with choices showing no greater adherence to either expected value or expected utility across repetitions. Instead, choices increasingly adhered to simplistic heuristic decision rules, possibly indicating greater reliance on such strategies as the tasks progressed. These results carry implications for a number of decision-making theories, including true-and-error models, rank-based methods, and strategy shift approaches.