bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of N levels on land productivity and N2O emissions in maize–soybean relay intercropping
Authors: Fu Zhidan , Chen Ping , Li Yuze , Luo Kai , Lin Ping , Li Yiling , Yang Huan , Yuan Xiaoting , Peng Xinyue , Yang Lida , Pu Tian , Wu Yushan , Wang Xiaochun , Yang Wenyu , Yong Taiwen
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Relay intercropping of maize and soybean can improve land productivity. However, the mechanism behind N2O emissions in this practice remains unclear. A two‐factor randomized block field trial was conducted to reveal the mechanism of N2O emissions in a full additive maize–soybean relay intercropping. Factor A was three cropping systems – that is, monoculture maize (Zea mays L.), monoculture soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) and maize–soybean relay intercropping. Factor B was different N supply, containing no N, reduced N and conventional N. Differences in N2O emissions, soil properties, rhizosphere bacterial communities and yield advantage were evaluated.

RESULTS

The land equivalent ratio was 1.55–2.44, and the cumulative N2O emission () was notably lower by 60.2% in intercropping than in monoculture, respectively. Reduced N declined without penalty on the yield advantages. The relay intercropping shifted soil properties – for example, soil organic matter, total N, and protease activity – and improved the soil microorganism community – for example, Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria. Intercropping reduced by directly suppressing nirS‐ and amoA‐regulated N2O generation during soil N cycling, or nirS‐ and amoA‐mediated soil properties shifted to reduce indirectly. Reduced N directly reduced by decreasing soil N content and reducing soil microorganism activities to alleviate N2O produced in soil N cycling.

CONCLUSION

Conducting a full additive maize–soybean relay intercropping with reduced nitrogen supply provides a way to alleviate N2O emissions without the penalty on the yield advantage by changing rhizosphere bacterial communities and soil N cycling. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Navigating pharmacophore space to identify activity discontinuities: A case study with BCR‐ABL
Authors: Lejmi Maroua , Geslin Damien , Bureau Ronan , Cuissart Bertrand , Ben Slima Ilef , Meddouri Nida , Borgi Amel , Lamotte Jean‐Luc , Lepailleur Alban
Published: July 2024

The exploration of chemical space is a fundamental aspect of chemoinformatics, particularly when one explores a large compound data set to relate chemical structures with molecular properties. In this study, we extend our previous work on chemical space visualization at the pharmacophoric level. Instead of using conventional binary classification of affinity (active vs inactive), we introduce a refined approach that categorizes compounds into four distinct classes based on their activity levels: super active, very active, active, and inactive. This classification enriches the color scheme applied to pharmacophore space, where the color representation of a pharmacophore hypothesis is driven by the associated compounds. Using the BCR‐ABL tyrosine kinase as a case study, we identified intriguing regions corresponding to pharmacophore activity discontinuities, providing valuable insights for structure‐activity relationships analysis.
Emodin suppresses mast cell migration via modulating the JAK2/STAT3/JMJD3/CXCR3 signaling to prevent cystitis
Authors: Xin Ke , Ge Manqing , Li Xukun , Su Hongwei , Ke Jingwei , Chen Kaifa , Tang Yiquan , Wang Yinghong , Lai Junyu
Published: July 2024

Aims

This study aimed to determine the preventive effects of emodin on cyclophosphamide (CYP)‐induced cystitis and to explore the molecular mechanism.

Methods

In vivo, mice were modeled by CYP. Before a half hour of CYP treatment, Jumonji domain‐containing protein‐3 (JMJD3) inhibitors (GSK‐J4) and emodin were used to treat CYP model mice. Bladder samples were stained for hematoxylin‐eosin and toluidine blue. Next, JMJD3 was quantified by immunofluorescence staining, RT‐PCR, and Western blot. CXCR3 was quantified by Western blot and ELISA. In vitro, before stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), human bladder smooth muscle cells (hBSMCs) were transfected with pcDNA3.1‐JMJD3 plasmids, shRNA‐JMJD3 plasmids or pretreated with emodin. Collected cells to detect JMJD3 and CXCR3 ligands again; collected supernatant of culture for Transwell assay. Finally, as the JAK2 inhibitor, AG490 was used to pretreat LPS‐induced hBSMCs. Western blot was performed to quantify proteins.

Results

Emodin inhibited mast cell migration and suppressed the expression of JMJD3, CXCR3, and CXCR3 ligands, not only in vivo but also in vitro. The pharmacological effects of emodin were similar to GSK‐J4 or JMJD3 inhibition. In addition, emodin significantly downregulated the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3, and inhibited JMJD3/CXCR3 axis transduction like AG490.

Conclusion

Emodin has a preventive effect on cystitis by inhibiting mast cell migration through inhibition of the JAK2/STAT3/JMJD3/CXCR3 signaling pathway.
Specific inhibition of α‐synuclein oligomer generation and toxicity by the chaperone domain Bri2 BRICHOS
Authors: Adam Laurène , Kumar Rakesh , Arroyo‐Garcia Luis Enrique , Molenkamp Willem Hendrik , Nowak Jan Stanislaw , Klute Hannah , Farzadfard Azad , Alkenayeh Rami , Nielsen Janni , Biverstål Henrik , Otzen Daniel E. , Johansson Jan , Abelein Axel
Published: July 2024

Protein misfolding and aggregation are involved in several neurodegenerative disorders, such as α‐synuclein (αSyn) implicated in Parkinson's disease, where new therapeutic approaches remain essential to combat these devastating diseases. Elucidating the microscopic nucleation mechanisms has opened new opportunities to develop therapeutics against toxic mechanisms and species. Here, we show that naturally occurring molecular chaperones, represented by the anti‐amyloid Bri2 BRICHOS domain, can be used to target αSyn‐associated nucleation processes and structural species related to neurotoxicity. Our findings revealed that BRICHOS predominantly suppresses the formation of new nucleation units on the fibrils surface (secondary nucleation), decreasing the oligomer generation rate. Further, BRICHOS directly binds to oligomeric αSyn species and effectively diminishes αSyn fibril‐related toxicity. Hence, our studies show that molecular chaperones can be utilized as tools to target molecular processes and structural species related to αSyn neurotoxicity and have the potential as protein‐based treatments against neurodegenerative disorders.
Discovery of a novel homocysteine thiolactone hydrolase and the catalytic activity of its natural variants
Authors: Hou Shurong , Liu Huan , Hu Yihui , Zhang Jie , Deng Xingyu , Li Zhenzhen , Zhang Yun , Li Xiaoxuan , Li Yishuang , Ma Lei , Yao Jianzhuang , Chen Xiabin
Published: July 2024

Homocysteine thiolactone (HTL), a toxic metabolite of homocysteine (Hcy) in hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy), is known to modify protein structure and function, leading to protein damage through formation of N‐Hcy‐protein. HTL has been highly linked to HHcy‐associated cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. The protective role of HTL hydrolases against HTL‐associated vascular toxicity and neurotoxicity have been reported. Although several endogeneous enzymes capable of hydrolyzing HTL have been identified, the primary enzyme responsible for its metabolism remains unclear. In this study, three human carboxylesterases were screened to explore new HTL hydrolase and human carboxylesterase 1 (hCES1) demonstrates the highest catalytic activity against HTL. Given the abundance of hCES1 in the liver and the clinical significance of its single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), six common hCES1 nonsynonymous coding SNP (nsSNPs) variants were examined and characterized for their kinetic parameters. Variants E220G and G143E displayed 7.3‐fold and 13.2‐fold lower catalytic activities than its wild‐type counterpart. In addition, the detailed catalytic mechanism of hCES1 for HTL hydrolysis was computational investigated and elucidated by Quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) molecular dynamics (MD) method. The function of residues E220 and G143 in sustaining its hydrolytic activity of hCES1 was analyzed, and the calculated energy difference aligns well with experimental‐derived results, supporting the validity of our computational insights. These findings provide insights into the potential protective role of hCES1 against HTL‐associated toxicity, and warrant future studies on the possible association between specific genetic variants of hCES1 with impaired catalytic function and clinical susceptibility of HTL‐associated cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Delineating redox cooperativity in water‐soluble and membrane multiheme cytochromes through protein design
Authors: Hardy Benjamin J. , Dubiel Paulina , Bungay Ethan L. , Rudin May , Williams Christopher , Arthur Christopher J. , Guberman‐Pfeffer Matthew J. , Sofia Oliveira A. , Curnow Paul , Anderson J. L. Ross
Published: July 2024

Nature has evolved diverse electron transport proteins and multiprotein assemblies essential to the generation and transduction of biological energy. However, substantially modifying or adapting these proteins for user‐defined applications or to gain fundamental mechanistic insight can be hindered by their inherent complexity. De novo protein design offers an attractive route to stripping away this confounding complexity, enabling us to probe the fundamental workings of these bioenergetic proteins and systems, while providing robust, modular platforms for constructing completely artificial electron‐conducting circuitry. Here, we use a set of de novo designed mono‐heme and di‐heme soluble and membrane proteins to delineate the contributions of electrostatic micro‐environments and dielectric properties of the surrounding protein medium on the inter‐heme redox cooperativity that we have previously reported. Experimentally, we find that the two heme sites in both the water‐soluble and membrane constructs have broadly equivalent redox potentials in isolation, in agreement with Poisson‐Boltzmann Continuum Electrostatics calculations. BioDC, a Python program for the estimation of electron transfer energetics and kinetics within multiheme cytochromes, also predicts equivalent heme sites, and reports that burial within the low dielectric environment of the membrane strengthens heme‐heme electrostatic coupling. We conclude that redox cooperativity in our diheme cytochromes is largely driven by heme electrostatic coupling and confirm that this effect is greatly strengthened by burial in the membrane. These results demonstrate that while our de novo proteins present minimalist, new‐to‐nature constructs, they enable the dissection and microscopic examination of processes fundamental to the function of vital, yet complex, bioenergetic assemblies.
A Closer Look at Type I Left‐Handed β‐Helices Provides a Better Understanding in Their Sequence–Structure Relationship: Toward Their Rational Design
Authors: Naudé Maxime , Faller Peter , Lebrun Vincent
Published: July 2024

Understanding the sequence–structure relationship in protein is of fundamental interest, but has practical applications such as the rational design of peptides and proteins. This relationship in the Type I left‐handed β‐helix containing proteins is updated and revisited in this study. Analyzing the available experimental structures in the Protein Data Bank, we could describe, further in detail, the structural features that are important for the stability of this fold, as well as its nucleation and termination. This study is meant to complete previous work, as it provides a separate analysis of the N‐terminal and C‐terminal rungs of the helix. Particular sequence motifs of these rungs are described along with the structural element they form.
A retrospective look at the North American Forest Soils Conferences from 1958 to 2023
Authors: Boyle James R.
Published: July 2024

This paper contains a brief overview of contents of 13 North American Forest Soils Conferences.
Anchorage and lap capacity of plain surface and square twisted bars in existing R.C. Structures: A comprehensive approach
Authors: Cairns John , Feldman Lisa R. , Palmisano Fabrizio
Published: July 2024

Although plain round or square section reinforcement is no longer used in new construction, there are many older structures still in service built with such bars. In recognition of the need for guidance on the assessment of load‐carrying capacity of structures reinforced with such bars, design codes are now introducing or re‐introducing provisions to assess the capacity of laps and anchorages of such reinforcement. The authors have contributed to the introduction of design rules in the fib Model Code 2020. This paper describes the derivation of these provisions. Starting from the form of expression proposed earlier by the authors, the data from which these proposals are derived is specified and modifications in interpretation preparatory to a statistical analysis are outlined. A rigorous multivariate statistical procedure is then employed firstly to determine a mean strength expression for the capacity of anchorages and laps which is then validated against test data. Further statistical analysis is subsequently used to determine a design expression using the approach outlined in EN 1990, taking appropriate account scatter in test data. Finally, some comparisons are presented between the assessment expressions proposed and design provisions that were in place when these types of bars were in common use. Areas where earlier design provisions may be non‐conservative are identified.
Resilience Patterns for Start-Ups: Strategies and Tools
Authors: Steinebach Christoph , Bucher Christian
Published: July 2024

Starting a business is considered a particularly challenging time for entrepreneurs. Risks must be well judged and mastered. It is a time when identity, profession, and competence make it possible to build up the offerings and the company. In dealing with general and specific risks, the resilience of the participants as well as the company as a whole ensures optimal development. From a systemic perspective, conditions of successful coping can be named. As it turns out, the development of appropriate strategies and plans is just as important as the consideration of one’s own needs and the development of one’s own competencies. Based on these considerations, various offers and methods of resilience support are recommended for start-ups.
SMEs Talk—Startups Walk: How Startups Can Benefit from the Use of a Digital Maturity Model for SMEs as Part of Digital Transformation?
Authors: Klotz Patrick , Eisenbart Barbara
Published: July 2024

Purpose—While digital transformation has been widely implemented in large corporations, there is a big potential for startups and SMEs that are lagging behind in utilizing this opportunity. This chapter aims to raise awareness among startups and SMEs about digital transformation by developing a digital maturity model adopted, especially for international distributed work. The model serves as a framework for startups and SMEs to understand which dimensions influence and are important for digital transformation, and what specific questions are relevant for each of the dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach—The research followed the Design Science Research with explorative interviews of two CEOs and development of case studies of companies currently undergoing the digital transformation process to get a deeper understanding of the different dimensions and which dimensions really matter. The artifacts are the dimensions that have a direct impact on the successful implementation of digital transformation, including a sample report of the digital maturity to position a company’s digital transformation against a baseline. Those dimensions were identified and chosen based on the review of 27 existing digital maturity models.

Findings—The perception, that digital transformation is all about technology, has been disproved. Seven dimensions identified were (a) Culture and Leadership, (b) Digital Technologies, (c) Organization and Processes, (d) Employees and Digital Skills, (e) Customers, (f) Products and Innovation, and (g) Digital Strategy. Once a digital strategy is defined, a company can then focus on either internal or external environment. Culture and leadership need to be defined top-down as a base for driving change. Digital technologies are enablers, not drivers.

Business implications—The use of a digital maturity model raises companies’ awareness about the current digital transformation phase and helps to understand, kick-off and accelerate their digital transformation to realize the aspired situation. While SMEs need to carefully plan and transform all aspects of a running company to benefit from digital opportunities, startups can launch digitally right from the start.

Originality/value—Startups and internationally active SMEs can use the maturity model for a self-assessment as a first step to understand key dimensions to build a digital strategy and continuously work on improving maturity level as well as sustainability. Researchers in other countries can use the maturity model for classification and conduct a survey for comparative analysis among countries and different industries in different countries.
Migrant Entrepreneurs in Switzerland: Not Very Different from Native Entrepreneurs
Authors: Meyer Dario , Meyer Rolf
Published: July 2024

Switzerland is a country with a high share of people with a migrant background in the population; however, there is a lower share of migrant entrepreneurs compared to native entrepreneurs in most countries. This raises the question of who the migrant entrepreneurs in Switzerland are and what their motivations and challenges are. This chapter is based on data from the Federal Statistical Office as well as a written survey of new founders who started their company between 2014 and 2019. Sixty-three entrepreneurs with a migrant background were surveyed among the total sample. The results show that the differences between native and migrant entrepreneurs are small to non-existent. The motivation and challenges are the same, only in getting support the migrant entrepreneurs rely more on external help than the native entrepreneurs. Also, migrants more often start their business alone. The research contributes to the existing literature by confirming the findings of other countries that migrant entrepreneurs are very similar to native entrepreneurs and have the same daily challenges. This knowledge can help providers of entrepreneurship support to shape their offerings and attract native as well as migrant entrepreneurs to the same offerings, as they are all entrepreneurs first.
Emigration and Start-up Setting. New Russian and Ukrainian Intelligentsia in a Historical Perspective
Authors: Schulte Volker , Hinz Andreas
Published: July 2024

This chapter describes the current situation of Russian entrepreneurs, on the one hand, and Ukrainian entrepreneurs, on the other hand, who have emigrated to a safe third country due to the warlike conflict and the increasingly repressive attitude of the Russian regime. Four Ukrainian and four Russian entrepreneurs were interviewed in addition to extensive source research. These findings are incorporated into the interpretation. Individual statements are quoted. Due to the delicate nature of statements and at the request of the interviewees, they have been anonymized. The new waves of migration are analyzed and classified in this chapter in a historical context with earlier waves of migration.

Since the Russian Federation’s invasion of Ukraine, some 700,000 Russians and 8 million Ukrainians have fled to third countries (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 2023a).

According to this source, about 18 million people have left Ukraine of which around 10 million have returned to the country in the meantime. The Russians and Ukrainians are mostly people with good education and corresponding skills in service professions. In this chapter, we present the results of eight interviews, four with Russian emigrants and four with Ukrainian emigrants, and explore the motivations, opportunities, and barriers to building start-ups in exile. The study also describes the integration achievements of previous European migrant flows, as well as the advantages and disadvantages for the respective home countries and for the receiving countries. From this, conclusions can be drawn for the current crisis (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, 2023b).

Key findings: Both Russians and Ukrainians form networks. It is striking that these networks hardly mingle. “We don’t want to have anything to do with the Russians,” says Tatjana, an exiled Ukrainian in Switzerland. The intention, the rejection of war, and the fear of military service are common to both exile groups. The opportunities and risks of starting a business in the respective foreign countries are also comparable. Russian exiles, on the other hand, tend to be driven to neutral or Russia-friendly countries. Ukrainians, on the other hand, prefer Western countries that condemn the invasion and provide significant financial support to Ukrainians in the form of asylum and refugee status. It is true that the host countries have to bear a heavy burden in the first phase, as accepting so many refugees requires great financial and social efforts. In the medium term, however, it is a significant advantage for the host countries because the admission alleviates the demographically induced shortage of skilled workers and thus promotes economic development. Among the four Ukrainians interviewed who have been granted the right to stay in Switzerland, gratitude toward the host country is very high and is expressed throughout.
The Type-I Seesaw family
Authors: Centelles Chuliá Salvador , Herrero-Brocal Antonio , Vicente Avelino
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We provide a comprehensive analysis of the Type-I Seesaw family of neutrino mass models, including the conventional type-I seesaw and its low-scale variants, namely the linear and inverse seesaws. We establish that all these models essentially correspond to a particular form of the type-I seesaw in the context of explicit lepton number violation. We then focus into the more interesting scenario of spontaneous lepton number violation, systematically categorizing all inequivalent minimal models. Furthermore, we identify and flesh out specific models that feature a rich majoron phenomenology and discuss some scenarios which, despite having heavy mediators and being invisible in processes such as μ → eγ, predict sizable rates for decays including the majoron in the final state.
On the networks of large embeddings
Authors: Aslan Tuğba , Khaled Mohamed , Székely Gergely
Published: July 2024

We define a special network that exhibits the large embeddings in any class of similar algebras. With the aid of this network, we introduce a notion of distance that conceivably counts the minimum number of dissimilarities, in a sense, between two given algebras in the class in hand; with the possibility that this distance may take the value $$\infty $$
∞
. We display a number of inspirational examples from different areas of algebra, e.g., group theory and monounary algebras, to show that this research direction can be quite remarkable.
Comparison of the performances of Statistical and Artificial Neural Network models in the prediction of geometry and density of PLA/wood biocomposite cubes manufactured by FDM
Authors: Contuzzi Nicola , Morvayová Alexandra , Fabbiano Laura , Casalino Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

The present study investigates the impact of scanning speed, printing temperature, and layer height on the density, dimensions, errors of parallelism, and surface finish of cubical specimens made of PLA/wood biocomposite and manufactured by Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). The study examined 64 specimens, each produced with a unique set of process parameters. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate the effects of process parameters on the examined properties of the manufactured cubes. RSM analysis revealed the statistical significance of direct proportion between the layer height, printing temperature, and x-and y-dimensions of the manufactured specimens (with P-values of 0, 0, 0.002, and 0, respectively). Also, the scanning speed and error of parallelism in z-oriented faces were statistically correlated (with a P-value of 0.035). For layer height and cube density, an indirect proportion was observed (with a P-value of 0). Compared to the regression model, ANN exhibited better performance at process parameters effect evaluation. The worse performance of regression models can be attributed to their limited capacity to represent non-linear relationships, while ANN models can capture the complex non-linear nature of the process, leading to better performances (R2 close to 100%). An evaluation of the defects in the specimens was carried out using the go/no-go diagram.
Sophisticated reasoning, learning, and equilibrium in repeated games with imperfect feedback
Authors: Battigalli Pierpaolo , Bordoli Davide
Published: July 2024

We analyze the infinite repetition with imperfect feedback of a simultaneous or sequential game, assuming that players are strategically sophisticated—but impatient—expected-utility maximizers. Sophisticated strategic reasoning in the repeated game is combined with belief updating to provide a foundation for a refinement of self-confirming equilibrium. In particular, we model strategic sophistication as rationality and common strong belief in rationality. Then, we combine belief updating and sophisticated reasoning to provide sufficient conditions for a kind of learning—that is, the ability, in the limit, to exactly forecast the sequence of future observations—thus showing that impatient agents end up playing a sequence of self-confirming equilibria in strongly rationalizable conjectures of the one-period game.
The effect of SSRIs on unconditioned anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies
Authors: Heesbeen Elise J. , van Kampen Tatum , Verdouw P. Monika , van Lissa Caspar , Bijlsma Elisabeth Y. , Groenink Lucianne
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first choice of treatment for anxiety-like disorders. However, which aspects of anxiety are affected by SSRIs is not yet fully understood.

Objective

We aimed to systematically review the effect of six clinically effective SSRIs on four aspects of unconditioned anxiety: approach-avoidance behaviour (elevated plus maze), repetitive behaviour (marble burying), distress behaviour (ultrasonic vocalization), and activation of the autonomous nervous system (stress-induced hyperthermia).

Methods

We identified publications by searching Medline and Embase databases and assessed the risk of bias. A random effects meta-analysis was performed and moderator effects were analysed with Bayesian penalized meta-regression.

Results

Our search yielded 105 elevated plus maze, 63 marble burying, 11 ultrasonic vocalization, and 7 stress-induced hyperthermia articles. Meta-analysis suggested that SSRIs reduce anxiety-like behaviour in the elevated plus maze, marble burying and ultrasonic vocalization test and that effects are moderated by pre-existing stress conditions (elevated plus maze) and dose dependency (marble burying) but not by duration of treatment or type of SSRI. The reporting quality was low, publication bias was likely, and heterogeneity was high.

Conclusion

SSRIs seem to reduce a broad range of unconditioned anxiety-associated behaviours. These results should be interpreted with caution due to a high risk of bias, likely occurrence of publication bias, substantial heterogeneity and limited moderator data availability. Our review demonstrates the importance of including bias assessments when interpreting meta-analysis results. We further recommend improving the reporting quality, the conduct of animal research, and the publication of all results regardless of significance.
Defining tumor growth in vestibular schwannomas: a volumetric inter-observer variability study in contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI
Authors: Cornelissen Stefan , Schouten Sammy M. , Langenhuizen Patrick P. J. H. , Lie Suan Te , Kunst Henricus P. M. , de With Peter H. N. , Verheul Jeroen B.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

For patients with vestibular schwannomas (VS), a conservative observational approach is increasingly used. Therefore, the need for accurate and reliable volumetric tumor monitoring is important. Currently, a volumetric cutoff of 20% increase in tumor volume is widely used to define tumor growth in VS. The study investigates the tumor volume dependency on the limits of agreement (LoA) for volumetric measurements of VS by means of an inter-observer study.

Methods

This retrospective study included 100 VS patients who underwent contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI. Five observers volumetrically annotated the images. Observer agreement and reliability was measured using the LoA, estimated using the limits of agreement with the mean (LOAM) method, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The 100 patients had a median average tumor volume of 903 mm3 (IQR: 193–3101). Patients were divided into four volumetric size categories based on tumor volume quartile. The smallest tumor volume quartile showed a LOAM relative to the mean of 26.8% (95% CI: 23.7–33.6), whereas for the largest tumor volume quartile this figure was found to be 7.3% (95% CI: 6.5–9.7) and when excluding peritumoral cysts: 4.8% (95% CI: 4.2–6.2).

Conclusion

Agreement limits within volumetric annotation of VS are affected by tumor volume, since the LoA improves with increasing tumor volume. As a result, for tumors larger than 200 mm3, growth can reliably be detected at an earlier stage, compared to the currently widely used cutoff of 20%. However, for very small tumors, growth should be assessed with higher agreement limits than previously thought.
Impact of post-thrombectomy isolated subarachnoid hemorrhage on neurological outcomes in patients with anterior ischemic stroke – a retrospective single-center observational study
Authors: van Landeghem Natalie , Ziegenfuß Christoph , Demircioglu Aydin , Dammann Philipp , Jabbarli Ramazan , Haubold Johannes , Forsting Michael , Wanke Isabel , Köhrmann Martin , Frank Benedikt , Deuschl Cornelius , Li Yan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

We aimed to investigate the impact of post-thrombectomy isolated subarachnoid hemorrhage (i-SAH) and other types of intracranial hemorrhage (o-ICH) on patient’s neurological outcomes.

Methods

Stroke data from 2018 to 2022 in a tertiary care center were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with large vessel occlusion from ICA to M2 branch were included. Post-thrombectomy intracranial hemorrhages at 24 h were categorized with Heidelberg Bleeding Classification. Neurological impairment of patients was continuously assessed at admission, at 24 h, 48 h and 72 h, and at discharge. Predictors of i-SAH and o-ICH were assessed.

Results

297 patients were included. i-SAH and o-ICH were found in 12.1% (36/297) and 11.4% (34/297) of patients. Overall, NIHSS of i-SAH patients at discharge were comparable to o-ICH patients (median 22 vs. 21, p = 0.889) and were significantly higher than in non-ICH patients (22 vs. 7, p < 0.001). i-SAH often resulted in abrupt deterioration of patient’s neurological symptoms at 24 h after thrombectomy. Compared to non-ICH patients, the occurrence of i-SAH was frequently associated with worse neurological outcome at discharge (median NIHSS increase of 4 vs. decrease of 4, p < 0.001) and higher in-hospital mortality (41.7% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.022). Regardless of successful reperfusion (TICI 2b/3), the beneficial impact of thrombectomy appeared to be outweighed by the adverse effect of i-SAH. Incomplete reperfusion and shorter time from symptom onset to admission were associated with higher probability of i-SAH, whereas longer procedure time and lower baseline ASPECTS were predictive for o-ICH occurrence.

Conclusion

Post-thrombectomy isolated subarachnoid hemorrhage is a common complication with significant negative impact on neurological outcome.
Cartilage compositional MRI—a narrative review of technical development and clinical applications over the past three decades
Authors: Li Xiaojuan , Kim Jeehun , Yang Mingrui , Ok Ahmet H. , Zbýň Štefan , Link Thomas M. , Majumdar Sharmilar , Ma C. Benjamin , Spindler Kurt P. , Winalski Carl S.
Published: July 2024

Articular cartilage damage and degeneration are among hallmark manifestations of joint injuries and arthritis, classically osteoarthritis. Cartilage compositional MRI (Cart-C MRI), a quantitative technique, which aims to detect early-stage cartilage matrix changes that precede macroscopic alterations, began development in the 1990s. However, despite the significant advancements over the past three decades, Cart-C MRI remains predominantly a research tool, hindered by various technical and clinical hurdles. This paper will review the technical evolution of Cart-C MRI, delve into its clinical applications, and conclude by identifying the existing gaps and challenges that need to be addressed to enable even broader clinical application of Cart-C MRI.
The influence of resource patch condition and size on social interactions, reproductive behaviors, and oviposition in a fungivorous beetle
Authors: Fornof Lillian J. , Stahlmann Roeder Clara A. , Brodie Edmund D. , Formica Vincent A.
Published: July 2024

Variation among resource patches can structure spatial patterns of social behavior. Individual preferences and requirements for heterogeneous resources can lead to differences in where behaviors take place and which kinds of individuals interact. In this study we examined whether properties of habitat patches predict presence of and interactions among wild forked fungus beetles (Bolitotherus cornutus). B. cornutus use shelf-like fruiting bodies of wood decaying fungi (brackets) as social arenas, courtship and mating sites, oviposition locations, and food sources. Brackets on a single log vary in size and condition and represent a dynamic resource as individual brackets decay over the years that they persist on a subpopulation. We found that size and condition significantly predicted how a bracket was used by B. cornutus. Both males and females were found more often on larger, living brackets. Larger brackets hosted proportionally more social interactions and mating behaviors relative to the overall visitation by individuals. The relationship between these resource properties and frequencies of behaviors was stronger for reproductive, between-sex social interactions. Live brackets also attracted more oviposition events by females, but bracket size had no effect on this behavior. Our results indicate that the dynamics of growth and aging of a critical resource can impact how social and reproductive behaviors are distributed in time and space, which in turn could affect the social structure of subpopulations.

Significance statement

Species that depend on critical host resources are often faced with a patchy landscape of resource quality. Those patches represent the infrastructure within which social behaviors take place, and can have formative effects on where, when, and how social interactions occur. We demonstrated that the size and condition of a fungal resource predicted male and female forked fungus beetle presence and behavior. Larger, living brackets hosted more beetles overall, while larger brackets in any condition hosted more social interactions and mating behaviors. Female beetles were more likely to lay eggs on living brackets, regardless of size. This study demonstrates how ecological dynamics of aging resource patches can indirectly structure social landscapes by influencing where and how individuals interact.
Association of body composition indicators with colorectal cancer: a hospital-based case-control study
Authors: Chen Qiujin , Li Kai , Liu Yang , Yu Xiaozhai , Ou Fengrong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy that affects adults worldwide, causing a high disease burden. Few studies have examined the relationship between body composition (BC) measures and the prevalence of CRC. Our purpose was to investigate the relationship between pertinent BC indicators and CRC.

Methods

Bioelectrical impedance analysis, laboratory test results, face-to-face questionnaire investigation, and nutritional risk assessment (Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 and Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment) were used in this case-control study. Bioelectrical impedance analysis in the case group was performed prior to antitumor therapy/surgery.

Results

From June 2018 to January 2019, a total of 303 cases and 286 controls were included. The results showed that low body fat percentage (BFP) and high visceral adiposity index (VAI) groups had a higher risk of developing CRC in comparison to the normal BFP and normal VAI groups. The risk of CRC decreased with the increase of BFP. The group with a normal BC had a lower risk of developing CRC compared to those with a greater VAI and a lower BFP, as indicated by the results of the pairwise and total combinations of VAI, fat-free mass index (FFMI), and BFP. Additionally, FFMI and VAI had positive correlations with prealbumin, serum albumin, and nutritional risk scores.

Conclusion

Low BFP and high VAI are associated with higher CRC risk. FFMI and VAI are positively correlated with prealbumin, serum albumin, and nutritional risk scores in CRC patients.
Surgical outcomes of major vascular resection for retroperitoneal liposarcoma from a high‑volume sarcoma center: a propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Xue Guoqiang , Wang Xiaopeng , Liu Bonan , Li Chengpeng , lv Ang , Tian Xiuyun , Wu Jianhui , Qiu Hui , Hao Chunyi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Radical resection of retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLPS) may necessitate vascular resection and reconstruction. The study was conducted to assess surgical outcomes of surgery for RLPS with major vascular involvement.

Methods

Patients with RLPS who underwent surgical resection at the Sarcoma Center of Peking University Cancer Hospital between April 2011 and December 2022 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Patients were classified into two groups: vascular resection and non-vascular resection groups. A propensity score matching analysis was performed to eliminate baseline differences between the groups. Surgical details and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Furthermore, prognostic factors for local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed.

Results

Overall, 199 patients were identified and the median follow-up period was 48 (interquartile range [IQR] 45–69) months. Vascular resection was performed in 42 (21%) patients, 25 of whom had vascular infiltration. A total of 39 patients had vascular replacement and 3 patients underwent partial resection (side-wall resection). Vascular resection was burdened by higher rates of major morbidity (38% vs. 14%, p < 0.001) and 30-day mortality (7.1% vs. 1.3%, p = 0.005). After propensity-matched analysis, patients who underwent vascular resection had 5-year LRFS and OS rates comparable to those without vascular involvement. Major vascular resection was not an independent risk factor for LRFS or OS.

Conclusions

Although accompanied by increased risks of major morbidity and mortality, the major vascular resection enabled radical resection in patients with advanced RLPS, affording comparable 5-year LRFS and OS rates compared to those who did not.
Long-term outcomes of laparoscopic versus open distal gastrectomy for patients with advanced gastric cancer in North China: a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xing Jiadi , Cai Jun , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Nengwei , An Dali , Li Fei , Cui Ming , Niu Lei , Gao Chongchong , Fan Qing , Ren Shulin , Zhang Zhongtao , Su Xiangqian ,   SWEET trial group
Published: July 2024

Background

Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy (LDG) has become a common procedure for treating advanced gastric cancer (AGC) in China. However, there is uncertainty regarding its oncological outcomes compared to open distal gastrectomy (ODG). This study aims to compare the 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) rates among patients who underwent surgery for AGC in northern China.

Methods

A multicenter, non-inferiority, open-label, parallel, randomized clinical trial was conducted to evaluate patients with AGC who were eligible for distal gastrectomy at five tertiary hospitals in North China. In this trial, patients were randomly assigned preoperatively to receive either LDG or ODG in a 1:1 allocation ratio. The primary endpoint was postoperative morbidity and mortality within 30 days and the secondary endpoint was the 3-year DFS rate. This trial has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02464215).

Results

A total of 446 patients were randomly allocated to LDG (n = 223) or ODG group (n = 223) between March 2014 and August 2017. After screening, a total of 214 patients underwent the open surgical approach, while 216 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery. The 3-year DFS rate was 85.9% for the LDG group and 84.72% for the ODG group, with no significant statistical difference (Hazard ratio 1.12; 95% CI 0.68–1.84, P = 0.65). Body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m2, advanced pathologic T4, and pathologic N2-3 category were confirmed as independent risk factors for DFS in the Cox regression.

Conclusions

In comparison to ODG, LDG with D2 lymphadenectomy yielded similar outcomes in terms of 3-year DFS rates among patients diagnosed with AGC.
Higher Robin eigenvalues for the p-Laplacian operator as p approaches 1
Authors: Sabina de Lis José C. , Segura de León Sergio
Published: July 2024

This work addresses several aspects of the dependence on p of the higher eigenvalues $$\lambda _n$$

λ
n

to the Robin problem,
$$\begin{aligned} {\left\{ \begin{array}{ll} -\Delta _p u = \lambda |u|^{p-2}u &{} \qquad x\in \Omega ,\\ \ |\nabla u|^{p-2}\dfrac{\partial u}{\partial \nu }+ b |u|^{p-2}u= 0&{}\qquad x\in \partial \Omega . \end{array}\right. } \end{aligned}$$

-

Δ
p

u
=
λ

|
u
|

p
-
2

u

x
∈
Ω
,

|
∇
u
|

p
-
2

∂
u

∂
ν

+
b

|
u
|

p
-
2

u
=
0

x
∈
∂
Ω
.

Here, $$\Omega \subset {{\mathbb {R}}}^N$$

Ω
⊂

R

N

is a $$C^1$$

C
1

bounded domain, $$\nu $$
ν
is the outer unit normal, $$\Delta _p u = \text {div}\ (|\nabla u|^{p-2}\nabla u)$$

Δ
p

u
=

div

(
|
∇
u
|

p
-
2

∇
u
)

stands for the p-Laplacian operator and $$b\in L^\infty (\partial \Omega )$$

b
∈

L
∞

(
∂
Ω
)

. Main results concern: (a) the existence of the limits of $$\lambda _n$$

λ
n

as $$p\rightarrow 1$$

p
→
1

, (b) the ‘limit problems’ satisfied by the ‘limit eigenpairs’, (c) the continuous dependence of $$\lambda _n$$

λ
n

on p when $$1< p <\infty $$

1
<
p
<
∞

and (d) the limit profile of the eigenfunctions as $$p\rightarrow 1$$

p
→
1

. The latter study is performed in the one dimensional and radially symmetric cases. Corresponding properties on the Dirichlet and Neumann eigenvalues are also studied in these two special scenarios.
Integrating freshness and profitability in horticultural supply chain design
Authors: Esteso Ana , Alemany M. M. E. , Ortiz Angel , Iannacone Rina
Published: July 2024

The freshness at sale for horticultural products sold in retailers is increasingly valued because of its impact on the environmental and social sustainability of the agri-food sector. To ensure this maximum freshness, it is necessary to consider it when planning planting, harvesting, packing, holding, and transporting of horticultural products. These tactical decisions are constrained by the configuration of the supply chain, which makes it relevant to ascertain if maximising the freshness at sale for horticultural products during chain design influences its configuration. Given the gap in the literature in this area, this paper proposes a mathematical programming model with multiple objectives that supports the design of agri-food supply chains by simultaneously maximising their economic benefits and the average freshness at sale for horticultural products. To this end, the model incorporates strategic decisions concerning supply chain design and tactical decisions concerning the production and transport planning of horticultural products to ensure their freshness. The model’s validity is confirmed through its application to a realistic case study of Argentina, considering scenarios with different weight distribution among the optimized objectives. The results reveal that the distribution of weights among the objectives significantly determines the design of the supply chain and its subsequent management, showing the relevance of considering the freshness of the horticultural products in this process. In addition, the impact this has on the supply chain economic benefits, the average freshness at sale for horticultural products, the wastage of products and the unsatisfied demand are analysed, finding interesting trade-offs among these factors.
Place-based diversification: Pathways to diversified shared landscapes in the Wairau Marlborough region of Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Barry Michelle , Mason Rebecca , Strong Diane , Wreford Anita , Radford Ramona , Romera Alvaro , Monge Juan
Published: July 2024

This study aims to explore the potential of place-based theory to contribute to land use diversification, particularly against the backdrop of prevailing climate change challenges. The study delves into local Māori and wider community perspectives in Wairau Marlborough, New Zealand, through two sets of semi-structured interviews. Questions asked aimed to (1) develop an understanding of the community’s vision of land use in the Wairau Marlborough region, (2) identify and understand the elements necessary to develop a pathway to achieving a shared vision for land use in the region, and (3) assess the potential for place-based approaches to support land use and diversification where there is high potential for conflicting interests between different groups, or in contexts with a history of colonisation. Overall, the study highlights the importance of understanding the community’s connection to the place and land, empowering them to be leaders in the development of pathways to solutions for the challenges that impact them. Interviewees emphasise the need for diversification, protection of natural resources, and inclusion of diverse perspectives. The studies provide useful insights for achieving a shared vision for land use diversification in Wairau, Marlborough, that can also be applied to other regions.
Requirements for modelling tools for teaching
Authors: Kienzle Jörg , Zschaler Steffen , Barnett William , Sağlam Timur , Bucchiarone Antonio , Abrahão Silvia , Syriani Eugene , Kolovos Dimitris , Lethbridge Timothy , Mustafiz Sadaf , Meacham Sofia
Published: July 2024

Modelling is an important activity in software development and it is essential that students learn the relevant skills. Modelling relies on dedicated tools and these can be complex to install, configure, and use—distracting students from learning key modelling concepts and creating accidental complexity for teachers. To address these challenges, we believe that modelling tools specifically aimed at use in teaching are required. Based on discussions at a working session organised at MODELS 2023 and the results from an internationally shared questionnaire, we report on requirements for such modelling tools for teaching. We also present examples of existing modelling tools for teaching and how they address some of the requirements identified.