bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crisis of Capitalism
Authors: Trencsényi Balázs
Published: January 2025

This chapter shows that, while not obvious in the early 1920s, the crisis discourse had a pivotal role in the economic sphere as well. After the turn of the century, the notion of economic crisis was deemed imprecise and was generally replaced by the seemingly more neutral conceptual apparatus of “cycles” and “conjuncture.” However, the Great Depression returned the concept of crisis to public view as well as into scholarly discourse. The central question was whether the dramatic economic situation resulted from a normal cyclical downturn or a more general structural transformation, indicating the end of the hitherto known economic system and the beginning of something radically different. Along these lines, the chapter focuses on liberal, social democratic, communist, fascist, and neoliberal interpretations of the Great Depression and analyzes their key arguments and complex (and sometimes surprising) entanglements.
Crisis of Socialism
Authors: Trencsényi Balázs
Published: January 2025

The chapter analyzes the extensive interwar discussion on the crisis of socialism, ravaged by its division between revisionist, syndicalist, and communist positions from the late 1910s onward. While the key notions used were often identical, the implication of this crisis discourse could be radically divergent. The Bolshevik leadership and the emerging transnational cluster of communist intellectuals pointed to the crisis of the socialist movement regarding its moral and organizational failure to prevent both the First World War and making a compromise with the bourgeois forces. In contrast, social democratic publicists employed this discourse to accuse the communists of fatally dividing the unity of the workers’ movement. These debates continued throughout the interwar years, with renewed intensity from the late 1920s onward, when the Great Depression reopened the window of opportunity for left and right radical anti-systemic politics and also created a space for a number of new configurations, often defining themselves as some sort of a “third way.”
Unclean cooking fuel use and sleep problems among adults aged 65 years and older from six countries
Authors: Smith Lee , López Sánchez Guillermo F , Rahmati Masoud , Soysal Pinar , Tully Mark A , Barnett Yvonne , Butler Laurie , Yon Dong Keon , Kim Soeun , Keyes Helen , Veronese Nicola , Oh Hans , Kostev Karel , Jacob Louis , Shin Jae Il , Koyanagi Ai
Published: February 2025

We investigated the association between unclean cooking fuel use and sleep problems in a nationally representative sample of adults aged ≥65 years from six low- and middle-income countries (China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia, South Africa). Cross-sectional, community-based data from the WHO Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) were analyzed. Unclean cooking fuel referred to kerosene/paraffin, coal/charcoal, wood, agriculture/crop, animal dung, and shrubs/grass. Outcomes related to sleep included self-reported nocturnal sleep problems, lethargy, poor sleep quality, and sleep duration. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted. Data on 14585 individuals aged ≥65 years were analyzed [mean (SD) age 72.6 (11.5) years; 55.0% females]. After adjustment for potential confounders, unclean cooking fuel use was associated with a significant 1.51 (95%CI=1.03-2.22) times higher odds for nocturnal sleep problems, while it was also associated with 1.64 (95%CI=1.20-2.26) times higher odds for long sleep duration (i.e., >9 h vs. >6 to 9 h) but not with other sleep-related outcomes. These findings suggest that the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 7, which advocates affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, may also have a positive impact on sleep problems, as well as a plethora of other health and environmental impacts.
Outcomes and Perceptions of Masculinizing Mammoplasty Among Transgender Men in Brazil
Authors: Felix Gabriel de Almeida Arruda , Neto Miguel Sabino , Oliveira Filho Jorge Manuel Rodrigues , Paiva Filho Paulo Cesar Greimel de , Garcia Ariane , Grisotto Junior Luciano Eduardo , Veiga Daniela Francescato
Published: January 2025

Background

Transgender men often experience body image dissatisfaction because of incongruence between their gender identity and physical appearance. Masculinizing mammoplasty (MM) aligns physical appearance with gender identity; however, its impact on body image satisfaction in Brazil has not been comprehensively assessed using validated tools.

Objectives

To evaluate satisfaction with chest appearance, nipple aesthetics, and body investment among transgender men in Brazil, comparing those who have undergone MM with those who have not, using validated tools, such as the BODY-Q Chest, BODY-Q Nipple, and Body Investment Scale.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 90 transgender men aged ≥18 years recruited between June and September 2024. Participants were allocated to 2 groups: those who had undergone MM (n = 45) and those eligible but had not yet undergone surgery (n = 45). Inverse probability of treatment weighting and regression models adjusted for age, BMI, and education level were used.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 32.2 years (standard deviation [SD] ±8.1, range, 19-62) and BMI of 27.9 kg/m2 (SD ±4.8). The MM group had a mean time since surgery of 40 months (SD ±29.2). After adjustment, MM was associated with significantly greater satisfaction with chest appearance (average treatment effect [ATE], 60.98; 95% CI, 53.02-68.93), nipple aesthetics (ATE, 50.61; 95% CI, 38.99-62.23), and body investment (ATE, 11.02; 95% CI, 5.66-16.38). Chest binding was significantly reduced in the MM group (P < .001).

Conclusions

Transgender men in Brazil who underwent MM reported higher body image satisfaction and quality of life, supporting the role of this procedure in enhancing mental health.

Level of Evidence: 3 (Therapeutic)
Paradoxical Adipose Hyperplasia of Submental Region After Cryolipolysis Treated With Deep-Plane Neck Lift: A Case Report
Authors: Zimmerman Heather , Ivey J Simon
Published: January 2025

Cryolipolysis is a technique to reduce adipose tissue with localized cooling. Paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) is a known risk of this procedure and presents with a voluminous swelling in the treated region, generally occurring two to four months after. Most cases of PAH are noted in the umbilical region, and it has been infrequently noted in the submental region.

Previous reports have noted liposuction or excision as proposed treatments. We report on a case of PAH after two sessions of cryolipolysis to the submental region, which was treated with deep plane neck lift (DPNL) for total correction.

Intraoperative removal of sub and supraplatysmal fibrotic fat, glandular material and muscle was utilized for optimal result. The patient had total correction of the deformity and maintained results at several months postoperatively.

This case would have been poorly treated with liposuction due to the dense structural material and fibrotic subplatysmal fat noted intraoperatively. Patients undergoing cryolipolysis for adipose reduction of the submental region should be counseled on the risk of PAH and DPNL should be evaluated further as the standard for correction of this condition.
Preoperative stereotactic radiotherapy to prevent pancreatic fistula in high-risk patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy (FIBROPANC): prospective multicentre phase II single-arm trial
Authors: Wismans Leonoor V , Hendriks Tessa E , Suurmeijer J Annelie , Nuyttens Joost J , Bruynzeel Anna M , Intven Martijn P , van Driel Lydi M , Haen Roel , de Wilde Roeland F , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Busch Olivier R , Stoker Jaap , Verheij Joanne , Farina Arantza , de Boer Onno J , Doukas Michail , de Hingh Ignace H , Lips Daan J , van der Harst Erwin , van Tienhoven Geertjan , van Eijck Casper H , Besselink Marc G ,   the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Group, Comandatore Annalisa
Published: February 2025

Background

Postoperative pancreatic fistula is the main driver of morbidity and mortality after pancreatoduodenectomy. In high-risk patients, the rate of postoperative pancreatic fistula approaches 50%, whereas it is below 5% in patients with pancreatic cancer who receive neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of preoperative stereotactic body radiotherapy on the pancreatic neck transection margin in high-risk patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy to prevent postoperative pancreatic fistula.

Methods

In this prospective multicentre open-label single-arm trial (progressing from a safety run-in phase to a phase II design), patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy for neoplasms other than pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma received a single preoperative stereotactic body radiotherapy dose of 12 Gy. Primary endpoints included safety (less than or equal to 15% grade 3–5 toxicity), feasibility (a significant change in pancreatic texture measured using a durometer), and efficacy (a 15% reduction in the grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula rate compared with patients from the Dutch Pancreatic Cancer Audit who were eligible but not included in this study). Secondary endpoints assessed tissue fibrosis (collagen density).

Results

Overall, 38 patients were included, of whom 33 (87%) completed the study protocol and were included in the per-protocol analysis. The safety cut-off was met, with 3% grade 3–5 toxicity. Pancreatic tissue treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy showed increased firmness using a durometer (median of 47 (interquartile range 36–57) versus 37 (interquartile range 30–41) Shore OO units; P < 0.001) and a higher collagen density (median of 6.1% (interquartile range 4.4%–9.5%) versus 4.6% (interquartile range 2.5%–7.4%); P = 0.003). The grade B/C postoperative pancreatic fistula rate with stereotactic body radiotherapy was 57.6% (95% c.i. 41% to 74%), compared with 34% (95% c.i. 27% to 42%) in audit controls (P = 0.011).

Conclusion

Preoperative stereotactic body radiotherapy is safe in high-risk patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy and increases parenchymal firmness and fibrosis, but fails to show evidence of efficacy.
Comparison of naturalization mouse model setups uncover distinct effects on intestinal mucosa depending on microbial experience
Authors: Arnesen Henriette , Birkeland Signe , Stendahl Harriet , Neuhaus Klaus , Masopust David , Boysen Preben , Carlsen Harald
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Concerns regarding the translational value of preclinical mouse models have been addressed by introducing various approaches of “naturalizing” research mice, which provide them with more diverse microbiomes and physiological immune responses. We have previously shown that “feralized” mice, i.e., inbred laboratory mice raised in a farmyard-like, microbe-rich environment exhibit a shifted gut microbiota, matured immunophenotype, and reduced severity of colorectal cancer. Similar studies occasionally involve co-housing with wild or pet-store-raised mice as microbial donors integrating species-specific commensals and pathogens. To what extent these different practices of microbial exposure are crucial for the resulting mouse phenotype remains unclear.

Methods

Here, we present the first side-by-side comparison of different methods to naturalize laboratory mice: co-housing with wild-caught house mice, feralization in a farmyard-like habitat only, or a combination of the two, with conventional clean laboratory mice as a reference.

Results

Independent of the method, the naturalized colon-mucosa microbiota was colonized by several Helicobacter species, and the colonic intestinal epithelial cells of naturalized mice displayed elevated expression of genes encoding antimicrobial peptides, mucus components, and reactive-oxygen-species-producing enzymes. They further showed significantly increased resident memory T cells in the colonic lamina propria and effector memory T cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes. The most pronounced changes of these parameters occurred in mice co-housed with wild-caught mice, while feralized mice displayed phenotypes that were intermediate between laboratory and co-housed mice.

Conclusion

These findings enhance our understanding of naturalization model setups and effects on the gut barrier and immune system, thereby aiding future decisions on the utilization of naturalized mouse models.
Outcomes of patients with mitral annular disjunction undergoing mitral valve repair
Authors: Muneretto Claudio , D'Alonzo Michele , Baudo Massimo , Como Lydia , Segala Anna , Zanin Francesca , Rosati Fabrizio , Benussi Stefano , Di Bacco Lorenzo
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVES

Mitral annular disjunction (MAD) is an abnormal displacement of the posterior mitral leaflet into the left atrial wall, potentially leading to left ventricular dysfunction, malignant ventricular arrhythmias (VA) and sudden cardiac death. This study investigates the outcomes of patients with and without MAD undergoing mitral valve repair for valve prolapse (MVP).

METHODS

The study retrospectively collected a single-center experience from 2021 to 2023 on 326 consecutive patients undergoing mitral valve repair for MVP. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of MAD. After propensity score matching 1:1, two comparable groups of 50 patients were obtained. Primary endpoints included hospital survival and early failure of the repair. Composite secondary endpoint included major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) such as reoperation, residual regurgitation ≥2, severe postoperative left ventricle (LV) dysfunction requiring prolonged (>3 days) inotropic support, cardiac arrhythmias and overall survival.

RESULTS

After matching, there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of preoperative characteristics. Hospital mortality was 0% in both groups, and there were no significant differences in terms of early reoperation (0%) or residual mitral regurgitation ≥2 or major atrial/VA. Nevertheless, patients with MAD presented a greater need for prolonged inotropic and mechanical circulatory support (IABP/ECMO): No-MAD 0% vs MAD 10% (P = 0.050). However, the composite outcome at midterm follow-up was similar between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Mitral valve repair in patients with MAD was associated with a significantly higher incidence of early LV dysfunction requiring mechanical support. However, no difference was found in terms of survival at follow-up.
Long-term clinical outcomes in patients between the age of 50–70 years receiving biological versus mechanical aortic valve prostheses
Authors: Chan Jeremy , Narayan Pradeep , Fudulu Daniel P , Dong Tim , Vohra Hunaid A , Angelini Gianni D
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVES

The last 2 decades have seen an incremental use of biological over mechanical prostheses. However, while short-term clinical outcomes are largely equivalent, there is still controversy about long-term outcomes.

METHODS

All patients between the ages of 50 and 70 years undergoing elective/urgent isolated aortic valve replacement at our institute between 1996 and 2023 were included. Trends, early, and long-term outcomes were investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 1708 (61% male) patients with a median age of 63.60 (interquartile range: 58.28–67.0) years were included of which 1191 (69.7%) received a biological prosthesis. After inverse propensity score weighting, there were no short-term differences when comparing patients receiving biological and mechanical valves. However, patients who received mechanical prostheses had better long-term survival (P < 0.001). Sub-group analysis revealed that patients with biological size 19 mm prosthesis had the worst long-term survival. Patients with a size 21-mm mechanical prosthesis had better survival compared to both size 19-mm [hazard ratio (HR) 0.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.17–0.37, P < 0.001], 21-mm (HR 0.33, 95% CI 0.23–0.48, P < 0.001) and 23-mm (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.27–0.60, P < 0.001) biological prosthesis. Additionally, patients with severe patient–prosthesis mismatch exhibited the lowest survival rate compared to those with moderate or no (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.21–2.00, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients aged between 50 and 70 years with a mechanical aortic prosthesis had better long-term survival compared to those with a biological prosthesis. Our study underscores the need for a critical re-evaluation of prosthesis selection strategies in this age group.
A survey on the implementation of family doctor contract services in China from the perspective of resident demand
Authors: Zhang Yue-Ling , Yang Yuan-Can
Published: January 2025

Background

To understand the implementation of the family doctor contract service system in China from the perspective of resident demand.

Methods

A stratified random sampling design was employed to survey 6380 residents across the eastern, central, and western regions of China. Data were processed using SPSS 22.0 and Python, and statistical methods such as chi-square and rank sum tests were applied. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the impact of various factors.

Results

(i) Overall implementation of the family doctor contract service system in China: (a) Nationwide awareness rate was 64.73%, with a contracting rate of 12.98%. (b) The overall satisfaction score for the implementation of contracted services was 3.78 out of 5, indicating general satisfaction. (ii) Regional implementation of the family doctor contract service system in the eastern, central, and western regions: (a) Awareness in the eastern region (67.76%) was higher than the national average (64.73%), while it was lower in the central region (60.44%). (b) The contracting rate in the eastern region (15.02%) was also above the national average, with the western region having the lowest rate (12.28%) but the highest willingness to contract.

Conclusion

The current state of implementation of China’s family doctor contract service system is far from the goals set out in the “Guidance on Promoting High-Quality Development of Family Doctor Contract Services”. Inadequate promotion of the system and subpar service quality post-contract have led to low public trust and satisfaction. The construction of family doctor teams and the contract service guarantee mechanism remain underdeveloped.
Bark beetle infestation alters mycobiomes in wood, litter, and soil associated with Norway spruce
Authors: Masch Diana , Buscot François , Rohe Wolfgang , Goldmann Kezia
Published: February 2025

Recent exceptionally hot and dry summers provoked massive bark beetle outbreaks in German forests, which killed many conifers, forcing to clear-cut complete non-mature stands. The importance of fungi in ecosystems in particular in association with trees is widely recognized, but the ecology of how insect infestations of trees affect their mycobiomes remains poorly understood. Using Illumina MiSeq sequencing, we investigated fungal communities in soil, litter, and stem wood at early and late stages of bark beetle infestation in a Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) Karst] stand in Central Germany. Fungal diversity decreased from soil to wood, with the highest proportion of unknown fungi in stem wood. Lifestyles, particularly of those fungi associated with stem wood, clearly changed depending on the infestation stage. The answer of tree-associated fungi to beetle infestation was characterized by an increasing community dissimilarity among all three habitats, i.e. it concerned not only the above-ground fungal communities directly connected to the tree. Our study, thus, pinpoints the cascading effects of tree infestations by bark beetles and subsequent tree diebacks on the proximate and distant mycobiomes of the plant soil system, which should be entirely considered to tackle the effects of environmental events on tree health.
Properties of the Ureaplasma parvum structural maintenance of chromosomes protein related to its interaction with DNA
Authors: Rumyantseva Natalia A , Shutov Vladimir M , Belenkaia Dina G , Alekseev Aleksandr A , Morozova Natalia E , Vedyaykin Alexey D
Published: February 2025

SMC (Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes) ATPase proteins are integral components of complexes bearing the same name, crucial for the spatial organization of DNA across diverse life forms, spanning bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes. It is proposed that in bacteria, SMC complexes facilitate DNA compaction through loop extrusion and aid in the segregation of daughter nucleoids. In this paper, the properties of the SMC ATPase protein from Ureaplasma parvum were investigated by using a spectrum of methods, including conventional biochemical methods as well as advanced single-molecule techniques. Our findings reveal distinctive properties of this protein compared to its extensively studied homologue from Bacillus subtilis. Notably, our results suggest that U. parvum Smc ATPase facilitates DNA compaction even in the absence of ATP.
Production and characterization of levans with different molecular weights synthesized by Bacillus licheniformis ZM107
Authors: Yan Jingqi , Zhao Xiangying , Liu Liping , Zhang Jiaxiang , Ma Jing
Published: February 2025

Levan, a fructan-type polysaccharide with diverse applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology, has garnered significant attention for its functional properties, such as prebiotic, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. In this study, the effects of fermentation temperature, sucrose concentration, and incubation time on the molecular weight of levan produced by Bacillus licheniformis fermentation were investigated. The results showed that as the temperature (37°C–50°C) and sucrose concentration (300–500 g l−1) increased, the molecular weight of levan produced by the strain during fermentation decreased. At the same time, the molecular weight initially increased and then decreased with longer culture times, indicating that levan within a specific size range could be produced by controlling the fermentation conditions. In addition, the properties and characteristics of levan produced by fermentation at two molecular weights (HML and LML) were compared. The results showed that molecular weight significantly affected the micromorphology, thermal behavior, rheological properties, and prebiotic activity of levan. Therefore, this study demonstrated that Bacillus licheniformis SFLV-ZM107 can produce low molecular weight levan, and its molecular weight can be controlled through fermentation conditions. Consequently, the properties and functions of levan can be influenced, allowing the production of levans with the desired characteristics.
Can machine translation of literary texts fool stylometry?
Authors: Rybicki Jan
Published: February 2025

This article uses standard authorship-attribution stylometry to tell machine translations made with DeepL and Google Translate from human translations. This is done using a Burrows-like distance measure procedure of cluster analysis, later visualized through network analysis. Using a corpus of French literary classics translated into English by humans and machines as illustration, this article shows that, in most cases, translations of each text were very similar irrespective of the type of translator. Discrepancies in this respect were only found between translations of authors writing in very complex style (Proust). On the other hand, sentence length distribution compared with the Dynamic Time Warping Distance method was much more indicative of whether translations were made by humans or by machines.
A model-independent approach to the study of structure growth in f(R) gravity
Authors: MacDevette Kelly , Worsley Jess , Dunsby Peter , Chakraborty Saikat
Published: February 2025

Over the last decade, much attention has been given to the study of modified gravity theories to find a more natural explanation for the late-time acceleration of the Universe. Particular attention has focused on the so-called $f(R)$ dark energy models. Instead of focusing on a particular $f(R)$ model, we present a completely model-independent approach to study the background dynamics and the growth of matter density perturbations for those $f(R)$ models that mimic the Lambda cold dark matter ($\Lambda$CDM) evolution at the background level. We do this by characterizing the dynamics of the gravitational field using a set of dimensionless variables and using cosmography to determine the expansion history. We then illustrate the integrity of this method by fixing the cosmography to be the same as an exact $\Lambda$CDM model, allowing us to test the solution. We compare the exact evolution of the density contrast and growth index with what one obtains from various levels of the quasi-static approximation, without choosing the form of $f(R)$ dark energy.
Fundamental MHD scales – II. The kinematic phase of the supersonic small-scale dynamo
Authors: Kriel Neco , Beattie James R , Federrath Christoph , Krumholz Mark R , Hew Justin Kin Jun
Published: February 2025

Many astrophysical small-scale dynamos (SSDs) amplify weak magnetic fields via highly compressible, supersonic turbulence, but most established SSD theories have only considered incompressible flows. To address this gap, we perform viscoresistive SSD simulations across a range of sonic Mach numbers ($\mathcal {M}$), hydrodynamic Reynolds numbers ($\mathrm{Re}$), and magnetic Prandtl numbers ($\mathrm{Pm}$), focusing on the exponential growth phase. From these simulations, we develop robust measurements of the kinetic and magnetic energy dissipation scales ($\ell _\nu$ and $\ell _\eta$, respectively), and show that $\ell _\nu /\ell _\eta \sim \mathrm{Pm}^{1/2}$ is a universal feature of turbulent ($\mathrm{Re} \ge \mathrm{Re}_\mathrm{crit} \approx 100$), $\mathrm{Pm} \ge 1$ SSDs, regardless of $\mathcal {M}$. We also measure the scale of maximum magnetic field strength ($\ell _\mathrm{p}$), where we confirm that incompressible SSDs (where either $\mathcal {M} \le 1$ or $\mathrm{Re} \lt \mathrm{Re}_\mathrm{crit}$) concentrate magnetic energy at $\ell _\mathrm{p} \sim \ell _\eta$ with inversely correlated field strength and curvature. By contrast, for compressible SSDs (where $\mathcal {M} \gt 1$ and $\mathrm{Re} \ge \mathrm{Re}_\mathrm{crit}$), shocks concentrate magnetic energy in large, overdense, coherent structures with $\ell _\mathrm{p} \sim (\ell _\mathrm{turb} / \ell _\mathrm{shock})^{1/3} \ell _\eta \gg \ell _\eta$, where $\ell _\mathrm{shock}$ is the characteristic shock width, and $\ell _\mathrm{turb}$ is the outer scale of the turbulent field. When $\mbox{Pm}\lt \mbox{Re}^{2/3}$, the shift of $\ell _\mathrm{p}$ (from the incompressible to compressible flow regime) is large enough to move the peak magnetic energy scale out of the subviscous range, and the plasma converges on a hierarchy of scales: $\ell _\mathrm{turb}\gt \ell _\mathrm{p}\gt \ell _\mathrm{shock}\gt \ell _\nu \gt \ell _\eta$. In the compressible flow regime, more broadly, we also find that magnetic field-line curvature becomes nearly independent of the field strength, not because the field geometry has changed, but instead the field becomes locally amplified through flux-frozen compression by shocks. These results have implications for various astrophysical plasma environments in the early Universe, and cosmic ray transport models in the interstellar medium.
Mind the gaps: improved methods for the detection of periodicities in unevenly sampled data
Authors: Gúrpide Andrés , Middleton Matthew
Published: February 2025

The detection of periodic signals in irregularly sampled time series is a problem commonly encountered in astronomy. Traditional tools used for periodic searches, such as the periodogram, have poorly defined statistical properties under irregular sampling, which complicate inferring the underlying aperiodic variability used for hypothesis testing. The problem is exacerbated in the presence of stochastic variability, which can be easily mistaken for genuine periodic behaviour, particularly in the case of poorly sampled light curves. Here, we present a method based on Gaussian Processes (GPs) modelling for period searches and characterization, specifically developed to overcome these problems. We argue that in cases of irregularly sampled time series, GPs offer an appealing alternative to traditional periodograms because the known distribution of the data (correlated Gaussian) allows a well-defined likelihood to be constructed. We exploit this property and draw from existing statistical methods to perform traditional likelihood ratio tests for an additional (quasi-)periodic component, using the aperiodic variability inferred from the data as the null hypothesis. Inferring the noise from the data allows the method to be fully generalizable, with the only condition that the data can be described as a Gaussian process. We demonstrate the method by applying it to a variety of objects showing varying levels of noise and data quality. Limitations of the method are discussed, and a package implementing the proposed methodology is made publicly available.
Weak emission-line quasars: a new clue from their optical variability
Authors: Kumar Ritish , Krishna Gopal- , Chand Hum , Negi Vibhore
Published: January 2025

Weak emission-line quasars (WLQs) are an enigmatic subclass of the QSO population, as their optical/UV spectra are marked by abnormally weak (or absent) emission lines. To obtain much-needed additional clues to the origin of this and other known peculiarities of WLQs, we have determined the ‘ensemble’ optical variability characteristics for a large, well-defined sample of 76 radio-quiet WLQs and also for a matched control sample comprising 603 normal radio-quiet QSOs. This analysis was done using their light curves recorded in the g and r bands, under the Zwicky Transient Facility survey during 2018–2024, with a typical cadence of 3 d. We find that, compared to normal QSOs, WLQs exhibit systematically milder optical variability on month/year-like time-scales (by a factor of $\sim$1.76 $\pm$ 0.05 in amplitude). We have independently verified this by carrying out an equivalent analysis of the V-band light curves acquired under the Catalina Real-Time Transient Survey during 2007–2014, with a typical cadence of 10 d. This new observational differentiator between WLQs and normal QSOs may provide clues to understanding the intriguing nature of WLQs. It is proposed that the clumpiness of the torus material flowing into the central engine may play a key role in explaining the observed differences between the WLQs and normal QSOs.
Synchrotron-based correlative imaging of metals and proteins in neuronal cells: state of the art and future challenges in neurometallomics
Authors: Kelkoul Ines , Muñoz Virginia Puente , Ortega Richard , Carmona Asuncion
Published: February 2025

Metal homeostasis in the nervous system is subtly regulated and changes in metal distribution or content, either increases or decreases, are associated with neurodegeneration or cognitive impairment. Determining the localization and quantification of metals in different types of neurons is important information for understanding their role in neurobiology. Synchrotron X-ray fluorescence imaging is a powerful technique that provides very high sensitivity and high spatial resolution for imaging metals in cells. However, additional biological information is often required to correlate the subcellular localization of metals with specific proteins or organelles. The purpose of this article is to review the studies in neuroscience that correlate metal imaging by synchrotron X-ray fluorescence with protein localization by other techniques. This article highlights the diversity of correlative modalities that have been used, from fluorescence to super-resolution and infrared microscopy, and the wealth of information that has been extracted, but also discusses some current limitations. Future developments are needed, particularly for direct imaging of metals and proteins with a single instrument.
“Let’s Think in Layers”: On Twenty-First-Century Instruments of Public Music Theory
Authors: O’Hara William
Published: January 2025

This article analyzes the provocative interaction between J. Daniel Jenkins’s (2025) notion of hidden music theories and music theorists, and Alexander Rehding’s (2016a, 2016b) idea of music-theoretical instruments. Both concepts show music theory’s propensity to emerge from sources that might go unnoticed, or that even seem to conceal themselves. I analyze several YouTube videos by Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) musicians who, in their illustrations of music production, also highlight novel approaches to musical structure, the roles of tempo and non-musical sounds, and the affordances of different musical interfaces and methods of visualization. These analyses demonstrate how DAWs might operate as instruments of music theory; how the genre of “session breakdown” constitutes a form of public music theory, blending conceptual ideas with analytical insight; and, more broadly, how tools for doing music theory can intersect with and greatly expand the sphere of public music theory.
Return Predictability, Expectations, and Investment: Experimental Evidence
Authors: Andries Marianne , Bianchi Milo , Huynh Karen K , Pouget Sébastien
Published: February 2025

In an investment experiment, we show variations in information affect beliefs and decision-making within the information-beliefs-decisions chain. Subjects observe the time series of a risky asset and a signal that, in random rounds, helps predict returns. Subjects form extrapolative forecasts following a signal they perceive as useless, and their investment decisions underreact to their beliefs. If the same subjects perceive the signal as predictive, they rationally use it in their forecasts, they no longer extrapolate, and they rely significantly more on their forecasts when making risk allocations. Analyzing investments without observing forecasts and information sets leads to erroneous interpretations.
Impact of Early Auditory Processing on Negative Symptom Response to Cognitive Remediation for Schizophrenia
Authors: Saperstein Alice M , Brennan Ryan , Qian Min , Javitt Daniel C , Medalia Alice
Published: January 2025

Background and Hypothesis

Early auditory processing (EAP) has increasingly become a focus of efforts to identify markers of treatment response in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Assessment of baseline need provides an opportunity for cognitive remediation (CR) programs that include EAP training to personalize treatment and optimize its impact. CR has been shown to help reduce negative symptoms, but less is known about how EAP tailoring may influence this relationship. This study hypothesized a differential benefit of EAP training on negative symptom reduction for those with and without baseline EAP deficits as defined by performance on the Tone Matching Test.

Study Design

150 outpatient adults diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder were classified as having intact (44.7%) or impaired (55.3%) EAP and were randomly assigned to CR that either included EAP training (N = 77) or did not (N = 73). Negative symptom improvement was measured via the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale posttreatment and 3 months later.

Study Results

CR resulted in significant negative symptom improvement in the sample overall. Only EAP impaired participants demonstrated significant negative symptom benefit from EAP training. EAP impaired participants who did not receive embedded auditory training had near-zero reductions in negative symptom severity.

Conclusions

These findings extend prior research on cognitive remediation as treatment for negative symptoms in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Accumulating evidence suggests that routine assessment of EAP is critical for personalizing and optimizing a response to CR that is clinically significant for both cognitive and negative symptoms.
Income Shocks, Bride Price, and Child Marriage in Turkey
Authors: Chort Isabelle , Hotte Rozenn , Marazyan Karine
Published: February 2025

Early marriage persists in many countries in spite of legal prohibition. The role of income shocks and bride price norms is investigated in the context of Turkey. Using data from the Turkey Demographic and Health Surveys 1998 to 2018, rainfall shocks are exploited as an exogenous source of variation of household income. To study the role of marital payments, measures of shocks are interacted with a province-level indicator based on past prevalence of bride price. Estimation results show that girls exposed to a large negative shock during adolescence have a higher probability of being married before 15, if living in provinces with a high prevalence of bride price. More arranged and forced marriages are found after severe shocks in those provinces. Results suggest that daughter marriage, as a response to mitigate negative income shocks, is not limited to the poorest countries, and still contributes to household strategies in Turkey.
A Latent Trait-based Measure as a Data Harmonization and Missing Data Solution Applied to the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes Cohort
Authors: Knapp Emily A. , Kress Amii M. , Ghidey Ronel , Gorham Tyler J. , Galdo Brendan , Petrill Stephen A. , Aris Izzuddin M. , Bastain Theresa M. , Camargo Carlos A. , Coccia Michael A. , Cragoe Nicholas , Dabelea Dana , Dunlop Anne L. , Gebretsadik Tebeb , Hartert Tina , Hipwell Alison E. , Johnson Christine C. , Karagas Margaret R. , LeWinn Kaja Z. , Maldonado Luis Enrique , McEvoy Cindy T. , Mirzakhani Hooman , O’Connor Thomas G. , O’Shea T. Michael , Wang Zhu , Wright Rosalind J. , Ziegler Katherine , Zhu Yeyi , Bartlett Christopher W. , Lau Bryan ,   on behalf of program collaborators for Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes*
Published: January 2025

Background:

Collaborative research consortia provide an efficient method to increase sample size, enabling evaluation of subgroup heterogeneity and rare outcomes. In addition to missing data challenges faced by all cohort studies like nonresponse and attrition, collaborative studies have missing data due to differences in study design and measurement of the contributing studies.

Methods:

We extend ROSETTA, a latent variable method that creates common measures across datasets collecting the same latent constructs with only partial overlap in measures, to define a common measure of socioeconomic status (SES) across cohorts with varying indicators in the Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes Cohort, a consortium of pregnancy and pediatric cohorts.

Results:

Starting with 52 indicators of prenatal SES from 39,372 participants across 53 cohorts, ROSETTA created three factors representing key domains of SES: income and education, insurance and poverty, and unemployment. At least one factor score was available for 34,528 participants; two factors were available for more participants than any single indicator. Factors fit the data well, had content validity, and were correlated with alternative measures of SES (for income & education factor, r= 0.40-0.89). Higher SES as measured by the factor scores was associated with lower odds of prenatal smoking:OR income & education 0.42 (95% CI 0.38, 0.45). Missing data were reduced compared to most methods, except for multiple imputation.

Conclusions:

ROSETTA aids in pooled analysis of individual participant data by creating measures on a common scale and maximizing data in the presence of missing and mismatched measures.
Child Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Throughout the Pandemic: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kwon Eugene , Blank Gabriel , Starkey Samantha , Chapman Cassidy , Lategan Conné , Shulha Hennady , Kitchin Vanessa , Silverberg Sarah , Sauvé Laura , Sadarangani Manish
Published: February 2025

Background:

This systematic review sought to characterize child-to-child and child-to-adult transmission of severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted from April 1, 2021, to December 15, 2023, to estimate secondary attack rates (SARs) and secondary infections per index case (case rate) from index cases up to age 20 years. SAR and case rate were analyzed based on age, setting, country and variant prevalence. Meta-analysis was conducted on the SAR data.

Results:

Eighty-six studies were included, representing 33,674 index cases. The total pooled SAR was 0.11 (95% CI: 0.07–0.16); 0.05 (95% CI: 0.03–0.10) for child-to-child transmission and 0.15 (95% CI: 0.07–0.30) for child-to-adult transmission. Pooled SAR in households was 0.28 (95% CI: 0.24–0.34) and was 0.02 (95% CI: 0.01–0.04) in schools.

Conclusions:

The role of children in SARS-CoV-2 transmission is small, particularly in schools. This work can help inform policies that effectively reduce transmission while minimizing adverse effects on children.
Corynebacterium mayonis sp. nov. isolated from a human blood culture
Authors: Mohammed Hamidu T. , Koscianski Christina A. , Berent Taylor E. , Gordy Garrett G. , Johnson Stephen , Herren Sebastian C. , Patel Robin
Published: January 2025

A novel Corynebacterium species, strain BD556T, isolated from blood, was identified at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA. After failing definitive identification using MALDI-ToF MS and partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing, BD556T was characterized using a polyphasic approach, including phenotypic, biochemical and whole-genome sequencing methods. BD556T was a Gram-positive rod with clubbed ends, facultatively anaerobic, catalase-positive, oxidase-negative and non-motile. Colonies were white, opaque and non-haemolytic with halo-like edges. BD556T grew at 35 °C in room air, with CO2 and under anaerobic conditions. BD556T grew well in 0 and 6% NaCl and weakly in 10% NaCl. The genome size was 2 349 779 bp with a G+C content of 60.39%. Phylogenetic analysis using 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization between the genome of BD556T and the closest type strains from the Type Strain Genome Server database yielded separation values well beyond those required for species delineation. Chemotaxonomic analyses of BD556T revealed ribose, arabinose and galactose as whole-cell sugars and an A1γ meso-diaminopimelic acid-direct peptidoglycan type. The major cellular fatty acids were C15 : 0 (21.0%), C16 : 0 (14.8%), C17 : 1 ω9c (26.2%), C17 : 0 (13.3%) and C18 : 1 ω9c (18.3%). Polar lipids included diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and unidentified glycolipids and phospholipids. BD556T also contained mycolic acids (32–36 carbons) typical of corynebacteria. The respiratory quinones were dominated by MK-8(H2) (71.2%) and MK-9(H2) (25.9%), with smaller amounts of MK-7(H2) and MK-10(H2). The results presented support the tenet that BD556T (=TSD 427T=NCTC 15078T) is a novel species for which the name Corynebacterium mayonis sp. nov. is proposed.
A dose scaling antivenin protocol in treatment ofDaboia palaestinaeenvenomation may reduce morbidity and costs
Authors: Jakobson Daniel J. , Zakariashvili Zurab , Galicia H. Enzo F. , Abu Issa Mohammad , Glatstein Miguel M. , Zimmerman Frederic S.
Published: February 2025

Background

Daboia palaestinaeis a leading cause of snakebite envenomation in the eastern Mediterranean, with substantial mortality in absence of antivenin. Current recommended antivenin dose is 50 ml; however, antivenin is costly, may be difficult to obtain and is associated with substantial morbidity. Thus, this study was designed to define the minimal effective antivenin dose and identify patients who can be safely treated without antivenin.

Methods

This retrospective single-center study was conducted in adults with suspected or confirmed D.palaestinaeenvenomation. Patients were treated via our previously developed envenomation protocol: no antivenin use for local symptoms and dose scaling for mild or severe systemic symptoms – initially 10 ml antivenin, with repeat dosing for ongoing systemic symptoms. Main outcomes measured were morbidity and mortality associated with this protocol. Secondary outcomes included assessing the demographics and clinical effects of snake envenomation and comparing between those who received antivenin and those who did not.

Results

101 patients were included. 45 minutes [median; interquartile range: 30-61 minutes] elapsed between envenomation and hospital admission, with no differences between groups. Among 52 patients receiving antivenin, 119 [60-237] minutes elapsed between envenomation and initial antivenin administration, with a maximum of 1073 minutes to initial anvenin administration. Maximum until last antivenin was 3860 minutes.

Median antivenin dose was 15 [10-22.5] ml, with 26/52 (50.0%) requiring only 10 ml. 2 patients developed an early antivenin immune reaction, with 1 developing anaphylaxis requiring invasive ventilation. No patients died during hospitalization.

Conclusions

This cohort demonstrates that a dose-scaling antivenin protocol can be safely employed, reducing morbidity and costs. This suggests a randomized control trial comparing fixed dose regimen to an escalation protocol and development of similar protocols for envenomations due to other snake species.
Pregnancy Reduces COVID-19 Vaccine Immunity Against Novel Variants
Authors: Parish Maclaine A , Sachithanandham Jaiprasath , Gutierrez Lizeth , Park Han-Sol , Yin Anna , Roznik Katerina , Creisher Patrick , Lee John S , St Clair Laura A , Werner Annie , Bersoff-Matcha Susan , Pilgrim-Grayson Catherine , Berhane Lee , Golding Hana , Shea Patrick , Fenstermacher Katherine , Rothman Richard Eric , Burd Irina , Sheffield Jeanne , Cox Andrea L , Pekosz Andrew , Klein Sabra
Published: February 2025

Pregnant women are at heightened risk for severe outcomes from many infectious diseases, including COVID-19. However, they were not included in the initial COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials and current rates of vaccine uptake among pregnant women remain below 15%. We explored the serological and cellular responses to COVID-19 mRNA booster vaccines (i.e., ancestral and BA.5) in pregnant and age-matched non-pregnant females to identify how pregnancy affects immunity against vaccine viruses in addition to novel variants. Blood was collected from participants prior to and 3-5 weeks post booster vaccine. Post-vaccination antibodies from pregnant women were less cross-reactive to non-vaccine antigens, including XBB1.5 and JN.1, than antibodies from non-pregnant females. Antibodies from non-pregnant females showed strong correlations between IgG1 and FcR binding and greater IgG1:IgG3 ratios and live virus neutralization against all variants. In contrast, antibodies from pregnant women had lower IgG1:IgG3 ratios and neutralization and greater antibody-dependent NK cell cytokine production and neutrophil phagocytosis, particularly against variants. CD4+ T cells from pregnant patients exhibited reduced polyfunctionality, with IFNγ+ monofunctional dominance. In contrast, among non-pregnant women, CD4+ T cells displayed greater polyfunctionality, with more IL-21+ cells. Pregnancy may reduce the breadth, composition, and magnitude of humoral and cellular immunity, particularly in response to novel variants.