bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive Laboratory Evolution Uncovers Potential Role of a DNA Helicase Mutation in Torulaspora delbrueckii Increased Sulphite Resistance
Authors: Osório Carolina , Fernandes Ticiana , Rito Teresa , Soares Pedro , Franco‐Duarte Ricardo , Sousa Maria João
Published: January 2025

Wine industry has faced pressure to innovate its products. Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been the traditional yeast for producing alcoholic beverages, but interest has shifted from the conventional S. cerevisiae to non‐Saccharomyces yeasts for their biotechnological potential. Among these, Torulaspora delbrueckii is particularly notable for its ability to enrich wine with novel flavours. During winemaking, sulphites are added to suppress spoilage microorganisms, making sulphite tolerance a valuable characteristic of wine yeasts. Adaptive laboratory evolution in liquid and solid media improved sulphite resistance in two T. delbrueckii strains, achieving, in the best case, a fourfold increase from 0.50 to 2.00 mM of sodium metabisulphite, highlighting the potential of these evolve strains for winemaking applications. Genomic analysis revealed SNPs/InDels in all the strains, including a novel unique missense mutation common to the four evolved isolates, but absent from the parental strains, located in chromosome VIII (protein TDEL0H03170, homologue of S. cerevisiae MPH1). These genes code for a protein catalogued as an ATP‐dependent DNA helicase, known for its role in maintaining genome stability by participating in DNA repair pathways. We propose that this valine‐to‐serine mutation, common to all the evolved isolates, helps the evolved strains repair sulphite‐induced DNA damage more effectively.
Atmospheric carbonization through private forestry
Authors: Rowland Marty
Published: January 2025

Sequestration of carbon in forests is one method of reducing the accumulation of CO2 in the atmosphere in order to delay climate change. But the ability of forests to perform this valuable ecological service may be hampered, particularly when private forestry dominates public policy. This article identifies several examples of lost opportunities for global society to benefit from carbon sequestration because markets for carbon credits are primarily designed to enable corporations to benefit from carbon capture schemes that are seldom adequately monitored. The recommended policy change is the ownership and management of all forests as common property, if not by legal title, then by collection of a tax on economic rent that could provide revenue to fund collective benefits.
Arterial Stiffness and Markers of Atrial Myopathy
Authors: Okrajni Magdalena , Platonov Pyotr , Muhammad Iram Faqir , Holmqvist Fredrik , Lundberg Johan Economou , Persson Anders , Kennbäck Cecilia , Healey Jeffrey S. , Engström Gunnar , Johnson Linda S.
Published: January 2025

Background

Arterial stiffness, measured using carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (c‐f PWV) and heart rate‐corrected augmentation index (Aix75), is associated with cardiovascular disease, and in some studies incident atrial fibrillation (AF). In this cross‐sectional study, we aimed to investigate whether arterial stiffness is associated with markers of atrial myopathy, which refers to structural and electrical changes in the atria that indicate increased AF risk.

Methods

We included 1050 participants (age 57 ± 4.3 years, 47% males) from the population‐based Swedish CArdioPulmonary bioImage Study with c‐f PWV and Aix75 data. A random subsample (n = 331) underwent echocardiography. The association between arterial stiffness and atrial myopathy markers was studied using multivariable‐adjusted negative binomial regression models for premature atrial complexes (PACs) on 24 h ECG, linear regression for P‐wave duration and left atrial volume index (LAVi), and logistic regression models for abnormal P‐wave terminal force in V1 (PWTFV1) and P‐wave axis.

Results

Arterial stiffness was associated with fewer PACs: incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.45 (95% CI: 0.31 to 0.65, p < 0.001) per 1 m/s increase in c‐f PWV and IRR 0.66 (95% CI: 0.49 to 0.89, p = 0.01) per % increase in Aix75. There was no association between arterial stiffness and P‐wave indices, OR 1.09 (95% CI: 0.85 to 1.40), p = 0.50 for abnormal PWTFV1, and β −0.003 (−0.10 to 0.09), p = 0.95 for P‐wave duration, both per 1 m/s increase in c‐f PWV.

Conclusions

Arterial stiffness, measured as either c‐f PWV or Aix75, was associated with fewer PACs, whereas no association was found with P‐wave indices. The association between arterial stiffness and atrial myopathy is complex and merits further study.
General dental practitioners' knowledge, attitudes and practice towards psychoactive substance use screening: A systematic review
Authors: Fouillen Kevin John , Clément Céline , Aous Enora , Le Goff Delphine , Le Reste Jean Yves , Guillou‐Landreat Morgane
Published: January 2025

Issues

Dentists can play a key role in screening for psychoactive substances use. This systematic review aimed to identify the knowledge, attitudes and practices of dentists related to screening for use of psychoactive substances and the facilitating factors and barriers.

Approach

According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses, four databases were searched until July 2024 to identify reports relating to screening for substance use by dentists. Search terms used key words relating to knowledge, attitudes or practices concerning the screening of tobacco, alcohol or any other substance use.

Key Findings

Twenty reports met the inclusion criteria for this review. In practice, dentists were more likely to identify tobacco use than alcohol or other substance use. Although the screening for tobacco was widely performed by dentists, the proposal of interventions was less frequent. Despite the opinion of many dentists that screening is part of their professional role, particularly tobacco, their knowledge of how to identify and intervene seemed low. Lack of knowledge or training were identified as barriers.

Implications

Identification of these factors should encourage greater diffusion of recommended tools for screening and development of initial and continuing training for dentists. These factors should convince decision‐makers to help dentists to identify referral solutions, in particular coordinated care pathways, and to consider the acceptability and feasibility of the screening tools available to dentists.

Conclusion

Tobacco use was more frequently identified than was other substances, screening was always more frequent than interventions, and lack of training proved to be the main barriers to screening. Education and training in the screening of psychoactive substance use is a key factor in encouraging improved practices, particularly on intervention following detection and on substances other than tobacco.
Do Novel Nonexercise and Nondrug Treatments Improve Global Cognition in Parkinson's Disease Patients? A Systematic Review and Bayesian Analysis
Authors: Tang Yingle , He Peikun , Li Yanyi , Ma Guixian , Zhang Yuhu , Wang Lijuan , Nie Kun
Published: January 2025

This Bayesian network meta‐analysis method was used to assess the effect of novel treatments on global cognition in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). We searched randomized controlled trials from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and Embase to investigate novel treatments for global PD cognition until April 10, 2024. Effect size measures were standardized mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. We included 13 studies investigating traditional paper‐and‐pencil cognitive training, modified cognitive training (MCT), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), rTMS plus MCT, Mediterranean diet, speech therapy, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and tDCS plus MCT. Comparisons between novel treatments and the control group revealed the following findings: Mediterranean diet (1.25, 0.74–1.76), rTMS plus MCT (0.82, 0.13–1.52), rTMS (0.42, 0.08–0.76) and MCT (0.34, 0.03–0.66) exhibited statistically significant improvements in global cognition in patients with PD, while the remaining treatments did not reveal significant differences. To conclude, the Mediterranean diet, rTMS, MCTs and rTMS plus MCT could effectively improve global cognition in patients with PD.
ON THE OPTIMALITY OF DIFFERENTIAL ASSET TAXATION
Authors: Phelan Thomas
Published: January 2025

In this article, I study the optimality of differential asset taxation in an environment with entrepreneurs and workers in which output is stochastic and entrepreneurs can misreport profits and abscond with capital. I show that a stationary efficient allocation may be implemented as an equilibrium with endogenous collateral constraints, transfers to newborns, and linear taxes on profits, investment, and interest. Furthermore, these taxes differ from one another and serve distinct purposes. The profits tax shares risk and depends solely on the severity of the misreporting friction, whereas the remaining instruments determine the efficient mean and variance of entrepreneurs' consumption growth.
Participation in Christ and Divine and Human Righteousness: Reading Paul with Gregory of Nyssa
Authors: Heavin Joshua
Published: January 2025

Participation in Christ and divine and human righteousness are vital, yet perennially debated, Pauline motifs. Arguably, what is most distinctive and crucial about ‘righteousness’ in Paul's epistles is its christological re‐definition in texts such as 1 Cor 1:30. I contend Gregory of Nyssa's theological interpretation of the Apostle Paul is a generative resource for understanding participation in Christ and inter‐relating divine and human righteousness. After sketching four crucial aspects of participation in Nyssen's broader theological vision, I explore three instances where Nyssen contemplates the meaning of righteousness and participation in 1 Cor 1:30, and explore their contribution for reading Paul today.
The Spirituality of the Nicene Creed and Its Missionary Implications in the Parish Community
Authors: Sonea Cristian
Published: January 2025

This article explores the missionary implications of the Nicene Creed in Orthodox parishes, focusing on trinitarian theology, incarnation, and decolonizing mission. Through the lens of the Nicene Creed, the article highlights how Orthodox parishes reflect trinitarian communion and engage in eucharistic mission to transform society. The article also emphasizes decolonizing approaches to mission and discusses how the creed informs the social, spiritual, and cultural practices of parishes. The interplay of mission, theosis, and incarnational theology is central to understanding the Orthodox parish as a microcosm of divine love and communal unity. This study explores the call to justice, reconciliation, and decolonization of mission in line with the vision of the World Council of Churches.
Is Your Supply Chain Breaking Down? Call AAA for Resilience Assistance
Authors: Zeiser Andrew , Polyviou Mikaella , Oke Adegoke , Knemeyer A. Michael , Croxton Keely
Published: January 2025

Supply chain disruptions regularly interrupt the normal operations of organizations, impairing their financial, operational, and service performance. Therefore, organizations must develop capabilities to enhance their resilience–their ability to anticipate, overcome, and transform after disruptions. The literature proposes that agility, adaptability, and alignment (AAA capabilities) enhance long‐term organizational success but does not explicitly link these AAA capabilities to resilience. Motivated by conversations with senior supply chain leaders, our research explores how organizations utilize practices, behaviors, and structures to build AAA capabilities in their pursuit of resilience over different phases of disruption. We use a grounded theory approach, conducting in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with supply chain executives. Our findings contribute to the supply chain resilience literature by (a) highlighting how distinct practices, behaviors, and structures support the development of distinct AAA capabilities, (b) demonstrating which AAA capabilities are most influential in enhancing resilience during specific phases of a disruption, and (c) illustrating how the AAA capabilities operate in a feedback loop to synergistically improve resilience over the lifecycle of a disruption.
OPG and BAFF as predictive biomarkers of the severity of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection
Authors: Ruiz Andy , Peña‐Bates Carlos , Ramon‐Luing Lucero A. , Baca‐Nuñez Daniel , Vargas Marco Antonio , Medina‐Quero Karen , Gutierrez Neptali , Vázquez‐Pérez Joel A. , Falfán‐Valencia Ramcés , Pérez‐Rubio Gloria , Di Benedetto Carolina , Buendia‐Roldan Ivette , Selman Moisés , Betancur Paola , Chavez‐Galan Leslie
Published: January 2025

Molecules of the tumour necrosis factor superfamily (TNFSF) are key players in immune regulation; an increase in some TNFSF molecules has been reported during severe COVID‐19. In this study, we profiled and evaluated TNFSF members in the serum of COVID‐19 vaccine‐naïve patients to identify potential biomarkers associated with disease severity. Our data show that TRAIL serum levels are lower in severely affected patients than those mildly affected by COVID‐19 (AUC 0.8, p = 0.0003). On the contrary, OPG and BAFF serum levels are higher in severe COVID‐19 compared to mild COVID‐19 cases (AUC 0.8, p = 0.0001; AUC 0.7, p = 0.0012; respectively) and moderate COVID‐19 cases (OPG p < 0.01), BAFF (p < 0.05). At the transcriptional level, TRAIL, OPG and BAFF are elevated in severe compared to mild COVID‐19 cases, with OPG and BAFF also higher in moderate compared to mild COVID‐19 patients. Additionally, we found that APRIL, LIGHT, CD30L and CD40L protein‐levels are higher in COVID‐19 patients compared to healthy donors but not significantly different between various COVID‐19 clinical statuses. Finally, we found that TNF‐α, TNF‐β, RANKL and TWEAK protein levels were not affected during COVID‐19. Our work identifies OPG and BAFF as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for preventing severe COVID‐19. Due to the opposite contradictory levels of TRAIL (protein/transcriptional level), its role during COVID‐19 should be elucidated and clarified with more in‐depth studies.
Identification of C/EBPδ‐Modifying Compounds as Potential Anticancer Agents Using a High‐Throughput Drug Screen
Authors: Hartl Leonie , Duitman JanWillem , Aberson Hella L. , Medema Jan Paul , Bijlsma Maarten F. , Spek C. Arnold
Published: January 2025

CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein delta (C/EBPδ) has been shown to promote tumour growth, drug resistance and metastasis formation in some cancers, whereas we have shown that its re‐expression limits the features of tumour progression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The pharmacological targeting—either activation or inhibition—of C/EBPδ may therefore harbour clinical relevance and is desirable for preclinical studies on C/EBPδ in different contexts. Regrettably, to date, only few molecules have been identified that modify C/EBPδ. Here, we present a high‐throughput compound screen in conjunction with a novel eGFP reporter to identify further compounds that either increase or decrease C/EBPδ transcriptional activity. Of 1402 small molecule inhibitors, we identified a total of 22 potent inducers and 18 inhibitors of C/EBPδ‐mediated eGFP fluorescence. Using pathway enrichment analysis, we found that, generally, inhibition of the cell cycle elicits an increase in C/EBPδ activity whereas PI3K/Akt/mTOR‐targeting compounds reduce C/EBPδ activity. We confirmed the potential importance of cell cycle‐mediated regulation of C/EBPδ by showing that four of the most potent C/EBPδ activators—R547, PHA793387, AZD5438 and AT7519, all multi‐cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors—limited the clonal expansion of PDAC cells. Next to providing a valuable selection of C/EBPδ‐modulating compounds for the use in preclinical studies, this report contributes to our understanding of the molecular regulatory mechanisms of C/EBPδ in general and in PDAC in particular.
Bacterial cell differentiation during plant root colonization: the putative role of fructans
Authors: Dobrange Erin , Van den Ende Wim
Published: January 2025

Plant‐growth‐promoting microorganisms are extensively studied and employed as alternatives to toxic agrochemicals to enhance plant health. However, one of the main concerns regarding their use is their limited capacity to colonize plant tissues after initial application. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved during plant colonization could help to develop strategies to improve the efficacy of beneficial microbes in the field. Polysaccharides, including fructans, may be of particular interest since they have been shown to promote cellular and morphological changes in bacteria from the genus Bacillus that are typically associated with improved root colonization, such as increased motility and biofilm reinforcement. The potential role of fructans as signalling molecules affecting plant‐microbe interactions is discussed in the context of plant root colonization with a focus on the model organism Bacillus subtilis, a well‐characterized rhizobacterium. First, the molecular processes underlying B. subtilis cell differentiation are explained and connected to plant root colonization. Secondly, we explore how fructans, in particular inulin and levan, may interfere during these processes. These views call for further research into the putative role of inulin and levan‐type fructans as microbial signalling molecules, with the aim of developing beneficial microbial networks in the rhizosphere.
Hormonal regulation and physiological adjustments of wheat and pea plants under simulated lunar soil conditions
Authors: Contreras Rodrigo A. , Pizarro Marisol , Zúñiga Gustavo E. , Valenzuela Cristian
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the physiological and morphological responses of wheat (Triticum aestivum) and pea (Pisum sativum) grown in a mixture of lunar soil (LS) simulant and organic soil (OS). The experiment compared the growth of both pea and wheat in 100% organic soil (OS) and a 3:2 mixture of OS and LS (OS: LS). Wheat exhibited increased branching and root growth in OS: LS, while pea plants showed enhanced aerial elongation and altered branch morphology. Photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) and pigment concentrations were significantly affected, with both pea and wheat showing reduced chlorophyll content in OS: LS. Oxidative stress indicators, such as lipid peroxidation, exhibited higher levels in pea plants than wheat plants, particularly in the OS: LS mixture. Hormonal analysis performed by LC–MS/MS indicated significant increases in abscisic acid (ABA) and its catabolites in both pea and wheat in OS: LS, suggesting an adaptive response to suboptimal conditions. The results highlight species‐specific growth strategies, with wheat investing more in root development and pea plants promoting aerial growth. These findings provide important insights into how essential crops could adapt to extraterrestrial soils, contributing to the development of sustainable agricultural practices for space exploration. Future research should focus on optimising crop performance based on species‐specific adaptative responses in mixed‐soil environments.
Fluid–Structure Interaction Analysis of Brain Tissue During Head Impacts Using Newtonian and Non-Newtonian Cerebrospinal Fluid Models
Authors: Hemmati Parnian , Prins Mayumi L. , Giza Christopher C. , Kavehpour H. Pirouz
Published: January 2025

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused mainly by external head impacts poses significant health concerns globally. Understanding the mechanics behind TBI during head impacts is crucial for developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. In this study, the fluid–structure interaction within the system comprising the skull, brain, and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-filled gap is investigated using finite element methods (FEM). Unlike most studies that model CSF as a solid, this research models CSF as a fluid, focusing on its fluid dynamics and their impact on brain tissue response to external head impacts. Additionally, this study is the first to model CSF as a non-Newtonian fluid, exploring its influence on injury metrics compared to a Newtonian CSF model. The results demonstrate significant pressure build-up and shear rate variations within the CSF due to impact. The model shows that maximum strain values are concentrated in the central regions of the brain tissue rather than at its interface with the CSF. Comparative analysis of the first and third principal strains shows that the tissue experiences twice as much compressive strain compared to tensile strain. Further, the comparison between Newtonian and non-Newtonian CSF models shows that the non-Newtonian model results in lower shear rates. This leads to a decrease in tissue strain, with a 4.3% reduction in the first principal strain and a 6.7% reduction in the third principal strain for the non-Newtonian CSF model. These findings underscore the importance of accurately modeling CSF properties to better understand TBI mechanisms.
Investigations on Formability Enhancement of Friction Stir Tailor-Welded Blanks
Authors: Konar Subhajit , Gautam Vijay
Published: January 2025

Experimental and numerical investigations on the formability of longitudinally butt-welded tailor-welded blank of the same thickness prepared by friction stir welding are presented in this article. The friction stir-welding technique involves a solid-state stirring mechanism to butt weld the two blanks of aluminum alloy AA5083 and AA6082 both in the annealed state. To study the effect of welded region on formability, experiments are performed on tailor-welded blanks with and without the annealing operation. The tensile properties of the parent sheets, welded blanks, and welded region are determined by performing standard uniaxial tension tests. The elastic properties, true stress–true strain, and anisotropic data sets are used in the material model for the prediction of failure strains to develop forming limit plots. The predicted results from finite element analysis are validated with the experimental results obtained from the limiting dome height test. The annealing is observed to enhance the formability of the friction stir tailor-welded blank (FSTWB) by almost 13% in plane strain and equibiaxial stretch conditions.
Mooring Optimization of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine With Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Machado Lucas do V. , Shadman Milad , Maali Amiri Mojtaba , Estefen Segen Farid
Published: January 2025

The majority of the world’s wind resources are located in water depths that exceed 60 m, making the use of bottom-mounted structures both difficult and expensive. Consequently, the complexity of the dynamics between the floating structures and turbines has led to an increase in the number of studies on floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) solutions. Designing optimal mooring arrangements for large-scale FOWT is currently a significant challenge. A metaheuristic solution is advised for the resolution of a complex optimization problem, such as the mooring configuration of a floating wind turbine. The evolutionary algorithms are among these, and they employ mechanisms that are inspired by biological evolution. The genetic algorithm (GA) is a multi-objective search and optimization algorithm that is derived from Darwin’s theory of evolution. It is classified as an evolutionary algorithm. It integrates the concept of survival of the fittest with the principle of randomized information exchange. According to the literature, hydrostatic and frequency-domain models are frequently applied in conjunction with multi-objective optimization algorithms, including the GA, for the purpose of optimizing FOWT. However, these models are less precise than time-domain models. The objective of this study is to optimize the mooring system of a FOWT through the use of time-domain simulations in OpenFAST. An in-house code is created to perform OpenFAST calculations and employ GA to determine the most optimal mooring arrangements for specific design variables that satisfy predefined multi-objectives while adhering to all specific constraints for the FOWT. Lastly, the optimized configurations are compared to the accidental limit state (ALS) and ultimate limit state (ULS) for the mooring system in a damaged state. The UMaine VolturnUS-S semisubmersible platform is optimized using the newly devised process to optimize power quality and reduce line costs.
Zinc-finger PARP proteins ADP-ribosylate alphaviral proteins and are required for interferon-γ–mediated antiviral immunity
Authors: Ryan Andrew P. , Delgado-Rodriguez Sofia E. , Daugherty Matthew D.
Published: January 2025

Viral manipulation of posttranslational modifications (PTMs) is critical to enable control over host defenses. Evidence suggests that one such PTM, adenosine 5′-diphosphate (ADP)–ribosylation, is important for viral replication, but the host and viral components involved are poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that several human poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) proteins, including the zinc-finger domain containing PARP7 (TiPARP) and PARP12, directly ADP-ribosylate the alphaviral nonstructural proteins (nsPs), nsP3 and nsP4. These same human PARP proteins inhibit alphavirus replication in a manner that can be antagonized by the ADP-ribosylhydrolase activity of the virally encoded macrodomain. Last, we find that knockdown of any of the three CCCH zinc-finger domain containing PARPs, PARP7, PARP12, or the enzymatically inactive PARP13 (ZAP/ZC3HAV1), attenuates the antiviral effects of interferon-γ on alphavirus replication. Combined with evolutionary analyses, these data suggest that zinc-finger PARPs share an ancestral antiviral function that can be antagonized by the activity of viral macrodomains, indicative of an ongoing evolutionary conflict between host ADP-ribosylation and viruses.
The pivotal role of IncFIB(Mar) plasmid in the emergence and spread of hypervirulent carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Sun Zhewei , Zhang Jianfeng , Wang Chuning , Chen Jinhong , Li Pei , Su Jiachun , Xu Xiaogang , Wang Minggui
Published: January 2025

The hypervirulent carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(hv-CRKP) poses a substantial challenge to the global health care. However, the mechanism behind its evolution and transmission remain elusive. Here, four virulence plasmid types were identified from 310 hv-CRKP isolates collected nationwide during 2017–2018, based on their aerobactin (
iuc
locus) lineage and IncFIB replicons. Notably, pIUC1-IncFIB(K)
37
and pIUC1-IncFIB(Mar), representing two epidemic virulence plasmids in Asia and Europe, respectively, accounted for >90% of the hv-CRKP episodes. Analysis of 494
K. pneumoniae
isolates (376 from 2010–2013; 118 from 2017–2018) and 2578 public
K. pneumoniae
genomes indicated the notable role of IncFIB(Mar) plasmids in the hv-CRKP emergence and spread. Conjugation assays showed the helper IncFIB(Mar) plasmid could efficiently transfer into a hypervirulent strain and uniquely retromobilize with pIUC1-IncFIB(K)
37
back into CRKP. Thereafter, the IncFIB(Mar) plasmid either lost rapidly or recombined with pIUC1-IncFIB(K)
37
, generating the hybrid pIUC1-IncFIB(Mar) plasmid. Our findings elucidated formation, evolution, and dissemination trajectories of the two major hv-CRKP strains in different regions.
ChromoGen: Diffusion model predicts single-cell chromatin conformations
Authors: Schuette Greg , Lao Zhuohan , Zhang Bin
Published: January 2025

Breakthroughs in high-throughput sequencing and microscopic imaging technologies have revealed that chromatin structures vary considerably between cells of the same type. However, a thorough characterization of this heterogeneity remains elusive due to the labor-intensive and time-consuming nature of these experiments. To address these challenges, we introduce ChromoGen, a generative model based on state-of-the-art artificial intelligence techniques that efficiently predicts three-dimensional, single-cell chromatin conformations de novo with both region and cell type specificity. These generated conformations accurately reproduce experimental results at both the single-cell and population levels. Moreover, ChromoGen successfully transfers to cell types excluded from the training data using just DNA sequence and widely available DNase-seq data, thus providing access to chromatin structures in myriad cell types. These achievements come at a remarkably low computational cost. Therefore, ChromoGen enables the systematic investigation of single-cell chromatin organization, its heterogeneity, and its relationship to sequencing data, all while remaining economical.
Outcomes used to measure the clinical application of neonatal palliative and/or end-of-life care in neonatal settings: a systematic review
Authors: Gallagher Katie , Chant Kathy , Parisi Veronica , Patel Mehali , Dunbar Helena , Paize Fauzia , Bertaud Sophie , Agyepong Agnes , Mancini Alexandra , Bluebond-Langner Myra , Marlow Neil
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Standardised reporting of outcomes in neonatal palliative and/or end-of-life care would facilitate comparison of practice and lead to more informed decisions about practice. We systematically reviewed evidence evaluating outcomes currently used to characterise the clinical provision of palliative and/or end-of-life care in neonatal settings.

Methods

A systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines was undertaken using Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, OVID PsycINFO, OVID MIDIRIS and EBSCOhost CINAHL. No date or language restrictions were used. Studies were included if they measured or reported outcomes related to the clinical practice of neonatal palliative care in a neonatal unit.

Results

Of 7998 records identified through database searching, 20 articles were included. Identified studies were retrospective chart reviews. No studies used standardised outcomes and all used proxy outcome measures. Results were organised according to the WHO domains of paediatric palliative care. All studies (n=20) reported documentation of physical symptoms and functional status (physical domain); six documented parental emotional and support needs (psychological domain); four reported sibling support and wider family presence (social and cultural domain), and three reported support from spiritual services (spiritual domain).

Conclusion

Despite neonatal death accounting for the largest category of child death under 5 years of age, there are no standardised outcomes from which to characterise or develop clinical practice. Developing a core outcome set for neonatal palliative and end-of-life care would ensure that services can be compared using reliably collected and collated data and help advance care in this area.
Methodology for promoting equity-informed research in sport and exercise medicine: recommendations from the AMSSM Collaborative Research Network
Authors: Rizzone Katherine H , Agnew Megan , Kliethermes Stephanie A , Arthur Megan Nicole , Burton Monique , Day Carly , Nicholson Caitlin , Ray Julia , Stern Nicole , Drezner Jonathan A , Kroshus Emily , Blauwet Cheri
Published: January 2025

Background

Limited guidance exists for conducting research on health disparities within the field of sport and exercise medicine (SEM). This review aimed to identify and summarise existing best practices for conducting equitable, diverse and inclusive research within SEM.

Methods

A narrative review with evidence synthesis was conducted using electronic databases, reference lists, manual searches and relevant publications from other organisations. Search terms associated with steps of the research process were used in tandem with ‘equity’, ‘inclusion’ and ‘health disparities’.

Results

We developed a research roadmap for SEM researchers with methodological recommendations to develop and conduct equity-informed and equity-focused research. This roadmap serves as a tool for SEM researchers and clinicians to design, execute and disseminate research with a health disparities lens. We recommend SEM researchers should build an equitable, diverse and inclusive research team and include community members; apply a multilevel, intersectional framework; minimise and acknowledge potential biases in the study design and incorporate qualitative or mixed-methods approaches if appropriate; apply multiple inclusive strategies for recruiting and retaining diverse populations; collect accurate and representative data using inclusive data collection methods and tools with validity and reliability in the populations of interest; apply measures with evidence of validity and reliability in the populations of interest; implement a data analysis plan that reflects the conceptual and theoretical frameworks; and promote broad dissemination and interventions that ultimately address and reduce health inequities.

Conclusion

SEM researchers should consider these methodological recommendations to conduct equity-informed and equity-focused research to address health disparities in SEM.
Lifestyle risk reduction engagement during interconception: a qualitative descriptive study of women’s preferences
Authors: James Sharon , Ratcliffe Sarah E , Assifi Anisa Rojanapenkul , Botfield Jessica , Black Kirsten , Hanson Mark , Mazza Danielle
Published: January 2025

Background

Prevention and self-management of lifestyle risks can reduce non-communicable disease risks and improve the health of mothers and their children. We explored Australian women’s preferences for lifestyle risk reduction engagement during the interconception period.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative descriptive interview study between February and May 2022. Women and people who have been pregnant and intended to have more children were recruited. We asked participants about their preferences for lifestyle risk reduction between pregnancies. Following reflexive thematic analysis, we conceptualised findings using the COM-B system.

Results

Among 17 participants, most had given birth to one child and intended to have another child in 1 to 2 years. Our analysis found that most described lifestyle risk reduction engagement through nutrition and exercise, informed by personal experiences and their health goals for a future pregnancy/child. Key attributes affecting engagement in lifestyle risk reduction activities included their feasibility and practicality, habits and routines, motivation, pregnancy planning, and the source and quality of information. Participants’ capacity and capability to engage in lifestyles supportive of interconception health were varied and influenced by juggling the routines of work, finances, health and evolving caring responsibilities. Community-based influences, including the availability of recreational infrastructure, the level of support provided by partners/family/peers and culture, also influenced participants’ engagement in lifestyle risk reduction activities.

Conclusions

For lifestyles that encourage interconception health, maximising participants’ capability and opportunities required motivation and access to infrastructure supportive of healthy meal options and exercise, health services and community networks.
Trends in syphilis and syphilitic uveitis among South Korean adults in 2010–2019: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Kim EunAh , Ryu Soorack , Song Su Jeong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study aims to investigate the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic and management patterns of ocular syphilis in South Korea.

Methods

This retrospective nationwide cohort study analysed health claim data from 2010 to 2019 for individuals aged ≥20 years diagnosed with syphilis, with follow-up through 2021. Age- and sex-adjusted incidence and prevalence rates were calculated for ocular conditions including anterior uveitis, posterior uveitis, panuveitis and optic neuritis. Diagnostic and management trends were evaluated, and multivariate Cox regression analyses assessed the impact of demographic factors and comorbidities.

Results

From 2010 to 2019, the incidence rate of syphilis increased from 99.1 to 136.1 per 100 000. Among the 448 085 syphilis cases, 5118 developed anterior uveitis, 777 posterior uveitis, 551 panuveitis and 80 optic neuritis. While all types of uveitis showed increasing trends, anterior uveitis exhibited the steepest rise from 0.18 per 100 000 in 2010 to 1.40 per 100 000 in 2021. Diagnostic practices for ocular syphilis included 80.4% for dilated fundus examination, 73.7% for fundus photography and 11.0% for fluorescein angiography. Laser photocoagulation and vitrectomy were performed in 5.7% and 4.5% of patients with uveitis, respectively. Multivariate analyses showed that each additional year of age increased the risk for anterior and posterior uveitis by 4% and optic neuritis by 2%. Hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidaemia increased the risk of one or more ocular syphilis manifestations.

Conclusion

In 2010–2019, the incidence of syphilis in South Korea significantly increased, with rates higher than previous studies. Age, sex and metabolic comorbidities were associated with an increased risk of ocular syphilis. These results indicate the need for vigilance in screening for ocular syphilis, and the importance of comprehensive eye examinations in patients with syphilis.
Artificial Intelligence as a Service (AIaaS) for Cloud, Fog and the Edge: State-of-the-Art Practices
Authors: Syed Naeem , Anwar Adnan , Baig Zubair , Zeadally Sherali
Published: January 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) fosters enormous business opportunities that build and utilize private AI models. Implementing AI models at scale and ensuring cost-effective production of AI-based technologies through entirely in-house capabilities is a challenge. The success of the Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Software as a Service (SaaS) Cloud Computing models can be leveraged to facilitate a cost-effective and scalable AI service paradigm, namely, ‘AI as a Service.’ We summarize current state-of-the-art solutions for AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS), and we discuss its prospects for growth and opportunities to advance the concept. To this end, we perform a thorough review of recent research on AI and various deployment strategies for emerging domains considering both technical as well as survey articles. Next, we identify various characteristics and capabilities that need to be met before an AIaaS model can be successfully designed and deployed. Based on this we present a general framework of an AIaaS architecture that integrates the required aaS characteristics with the capabilities of AI. We also compare various approaches for offering AIaaS to end users. Finally, we illustrate several real-world use cases for AIaaS models, followed by a discussion of some of the challenges that must be addressed to enable AIaaS adoption.
Phase-Selective Synthesis of Monoclinic VO2(B) Nanosheets and Its Self-Assembled Nanoflower Binary Hybrids for Energy Storage
Authors: Ramakrishnan Aswini , Swaminathan Sindhu , Mayandi Jeyanthinath
Published: January 2025

Vanadium oxides are highly regarded for their versatility, readily transitioning between multiple oxidation states and adopting various polymorphic phases. This synthesis involves a template-free, one-step hydrothermal synthesis to produce mesoporous monoclinic VO2(B) nanosheets and its self-assembled VO2(B)-graphene nanoflower binary hybrid. This strategic incorporation of graphene oxide during synthesis significantly enhances the electrochemical properties of the nanosheets, elevating their potential for supercapacitor applications. When tested as a symmetric supercapacitor device with a neutral aqueous electrolyte of 0.1 M Na2SO4, the monoclinic VO2(B) nanosheets exhibited an impressive specific capacitance of 232.56 F g−1 at a scan rate of 5 mV s−1, within a potential window of 1 V. Likewise, the binary hybrid nanoflowers, with the same potential window and electrolytic conditions, demonstrate a remarkable specific capacitance of 469.38 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1, along with an energy density of 1.57 Wh kg−1 and a formidable power density of 12.94 W kg−1. The elegant design of the hybrid nanoflowers exhibits exceptional stability of 50000 cycles as well. The same binary hybrid tested for asymmetric supercapacitor showed a specific capacitance of 68.88 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 with a potential limit of 1.5 V, providing an enhanced energy density of 1.96 Wh kg−1 and power density of 26.04 W kg−1.
High-Rate Preparation of Fluorocarbon Film Using Tetrafluoromethane Gas and a Graphite Electrode by High-Pressure (100 Torr) Plasma
Authors: Ohmi Hiromasa , Tanaka Tomoyuki , Kikura Jou , Oda Yuga , Ueno Mizuki , Kakiuchi Hiroaki
Published: January 2025

High-rate preparation of fluorocarbon (FC) films was achieved using high-pressure (100 Torr) narrow-gap plasma with tetrafluoromethane (CF4) gas and a solid graphite electrode. The graphite electrode acted as an effective source of carbon atoms, which decreased the fluorine/carbon ratio of the reaction system. The deposition rate (R
d) increased as the substrate temperature decreased. The highest R
d achieved for an FC film in this study was 1.3 μm min−1. CF2 radicals were the main precursors for FC film formation in this technique and an electrode temperature of >650 °C was required to enhance the chemical reaction between graphite and fluorine atoms. R
d did not increase monotonically with increases in the CF4 concentration, and the maximum R
d was achieved at a CF4 concentration of 50%. Infrared absorption spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed that the FC films contained CF3 groups, and that the fluorine/carbon ratio of the prepared FC films was almost one. The water contact angles of the FC films varied from 108° to 130° depending on the film thickness. Visible-light transmittance decreased markedly with increasing film thickness, whereas NIR transmittance was relatively insensitive to the film thickness.
Macro–Microscopic Mechanical Study of Clay–Structure Interface Shear Behavior Using Direct Shear Testing and DEM Simulation
Authors: Sun Tingting , Yang Jingnan , Shi Kuang , Lin Shufeng , Yang Jixing
Published: January 2025

Understanding the interface shear behavior between clay and structures is crucial in geotechnical engineering. The mechanism of the roughness effect in the shear process between the clay and structures was studied to reveal the macroscopic and microscopic interface shear behavior. The different surface protrusion shapes of the structures were produced using a three‐dimensional (3D) printer. Direct shear tests were conducted to analyze the shear failure modes and peak and residual strengths under different conditions. Subsequently, a discrete element method (DEM) numerical analysis was employed to study the contact network, soil fabric evolution, shear zone, coordination number, and void ratio variations in the interface shear. The test results indicated that the shear interfaces exhibited the same failure mode under various conditions, and the peak and residual strengths showed a strong positive correlation with roughness. The results obtained from numerical calculations match the experimental findings. The contact orientations and principal stresses shifted during the shear process, and the shear zone, coordination number, and void ratio also showed regular changes with the change of roughness. The evolution of microscopic parameters in DEM can effectively help explain the macroscopic interface shear behavior.
Effect of Polymer Additives on Improvement of Concrete Properties
Authors: Bekturganova Neila Ye. , Kolesnikova Inna V.
Published: January 2025

This article presents a review of achievements in the research aimed at improving the main building material—concrete—along with its physical, mechanical, and operational properties. As is well known, in the near future, the role of concrete will continue to be primary in the construction of buildings and structures due to increasing demand. However, despite its advantages, this important building material is not without flaws. In particular, due to its porosity, concrete is highly permeable to liquids, making it insufficiently resistant to frost and corrosion and sometimes even brittle. At the same time, concrete mixtures used in modern construction must meet requirements such as good adhesive properties, improved waterproofing, high workability, retention of rheological characteristics over time, and the potential for increased strength. Today, the use of polymer additives as modifiers to improving concrete is particularly relevant. The purpose of this review is to examine recent advances in understanding the impact of polymer additives of both inorganic and organic nature on improving concrete properties. Continued research in the field of polymer modifiers and exploration of new research opportunities are for engineering advancements and the development of modern materials.
Development and Applications of Penalty‐Based Aggregation Operators in Multicriteria Decision Making
Authors: Rathod Shruti , Sahni Manoj , Merigo Jose M.
Published: January 2025

This article develops a new penalty‐based aggregation operator known as the penalty‐based induced ordered weighted averaging (P‐IOWA) operator which is an extension of penalty‐based ordered weighted averaging (P‐OWA) operator. Our goal is to figure out how the induced variable realigns penalties when gathering information. We extend the P‐OWA and P‐IOWA operators with the different means such as generalized mean and quasi‐arithmetic mean. This article also includes different families of P‐OWA and P‐IOWA operators. The value of these new operators is demonstrated through a case study centered on investment matters. This study evaluates the economic and governance performance of seven South Asian nations utilizing nine indicators from 2021 data. The research examines 5 economic indicators including GDP growth, exports and imports (% of GDP), inflation, and labor force metrics, alongside 4 governance indicators focusing on corruption control, government effectiveness, and political stability. We use min–max normalization to standardize the varied values, which originally ranged from 0.5% to 77.7% across various metrics. Following this, the normalized inverse penalty method is used to derive optimal weights for these indicators, tackling the task of combining multidimensional data. Subsequently, we implement and evaluate various penalty‐based aggregation methodologies on the normalized data, each offering a distinct approach to penalizing outliers and balancing indicator weights. The study compares the results obtained from these operators to assess their impact on country rankings and overall performance evaluation. This approach allows for a comprehensive comparison of countries’ performances, integrating both economic and governance dimensions into a single, quantifiable framework.