bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untargeted mutagenesis of brassinosteroid receptor SbBRI1 confers drought tolerance by altering phenylpropanoid metabolism in Sorghum bicolor
Authors: Fontanet‐Manzaneque Juan B. , Laibach Natalie , Herrero‐García Iván , Coleto‐Alcudia Veredas , Blasco‐Escámez David , Zhang Chen , Orduña Luis , Alseekh Saleh , Miller Sara , Bjarnholt Nanna , Fernie Alisdair R. , Matus José Tomás , Caño‐Delgado Ana I.
Published: September 2024

Drought is a critical issue in modern agriculture; therefore, there is a need to create crops with drought resilience. The complexity of plant responses to abiotic stresses, particularly in the field of brassinosteroid (BR) signalling, has been the subject of extensive research. In this study, we unveil compelling insights indicating that the BRASSINOSTEROID‐INSENSITIVE 1 (BRI1) receptor in Arabidopsis and Sorghum plays a critical role as a negative regulator of drought responses. Introducing untargeted mutation in the sorghum BRI1 receptor (SbBRI1) effectively enhances the plant's ability to withstand osmotic and drought stress. Through DNA Affinity Purification sequencing (DAP‐seq), we show that the sorghum BRI1‐EMS‐SUPPRESSOR 1 (SbBES1) transcription factor, a downstream player of the BR signalling, binds to a conserved G‐box binding motif, and it is responsible for regulating BR homeostasis, as its Arabidopsis ortholog AtBES1. We further characterized the drought tolerance of sorghum bri1 mutants and decipher SbBES1‐mediated regulation of phenylpropanoid pathway. Our findings suggest that SbBRI1 signalling serves a dual purpose: under normal conditions, it regulates lignin biosynthesis by SbBES1, but during drought conditions, BES1 becomes less active, allowing the activation of the flavonoid pathway. This adaptive shift improves the photosynthetic rate and photoprotection, reinforcing crop adaptation to drought.
Welfare and autonomy under risk
Authors: Cibinel Pietro
Published: September 2024

This paper studies the relationship between promoting people's welfare and respecting their autonomy of choice under risk. I highlight a conflict between these two aims. Given compelling assumptions, welfarists end up disregarding people's unanimous preference, even when everyone involved is entirely rational and only concerned with maximizing their own welfare. Non‐welfarist theories of social choice are then considered. They are shown to face difficulties, too: either they fail to respect the value of welfare in at least one important sense, or they end up prioritizing different people's welfare differently in non‐risky choices, on the basis of their attitudes to risk, which are intuitively irrelevant in this context.
Multi‐level party favoritism: The case of a discretionary grant program in Poland
Authors: Gendźwiłł Adam , Swianiewicz Paweł , Sześciło Dawid
Published: September 2024

Party favoritism in the distribution of grants is a well‐known mechanism fueling pork‐barrel politics and clientelism. In this paper, we analyze partisan bias in the distribution of the Polish Government Fund for Local Investments (RFIL) and demonstrate implications of party favoritism for the re‐centralization strategy adopted by the right‐wing populist government. We find robust evidence for a substantial bias that favors municipal authorities aligned with the national government. The proportion of the municipalities receiving any funding in two analyzed waves of the RFIL program increased by more than 45 percentage points and the amount of funding granted by more than 175 PLN per capita as a result of electing a mayor affiliated with the ruling party. We demonstrate that the partisan bias also affects municipalities ruled by local independents. It proliferates party polarization from the national level to the local politics and, in the longer run, may lead to its greater nationalization.
Unraveling the causative connection between urticaria, inflammatory cytokines, and mental disorders: Perspectives from genetic evidence
Authors: Liu ZhiRong , Wang YuanYing , Wang ShiHao , Wu JiaXin , Jia Cui , Tan Xuan , Liu XinLian , Huang XinWei , Zhang LuShun
Published: September 2024

Background

The genetic association between urticaria and mental disorders and whether inflammatory cytokines mediate this process remains unclear.

Materials and methods

A Mendelian randomization (MR) approaches to elucidate the causal relationship between urticaria and mental disorders and to validate the mediation of inflammatory cytokines. Genome‐wide association study (GWAS) databases used were obtained from Psychiatric Genomics Cooperation (PGC), GWAS Catalog, and FinnGen Consortium. Our study was conducted using inverse variance weighted (IVW) and Bayesian weighted MR (BWMR) methods for joint analysis.

Results

The MR results showed that urticaria increased the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (odds ratio [OR] 1.088, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.026–1.154, p 0.0051); cholinergic urticaria increased the risk of bipolar disorder (BD) (OR 1.012, 95% CI: 1.001–1.022, p 0.0274); dermatographic urticaria increased the risk of ADHD (OR 1.057, 95% CI: 1.005–1.112, p 0.0323); idiopathic urticaria increased the risk of schizophrenia (SCZ) (OR 1.057, 95% CI: 1.005–1.112, p 0.0323); other unspecified urticaria increased the risk of ADHD (OR 1.085, 95% CI: 1.023–1.151, p 0.0063). We found that eight inflammatory cytokines were negatively associated with mental disorders and seven inflammatory cytokines were positively associated with mental disorders. Finally, our results suggested that inflammatory cytokines do not act as mediators between urticaria and mental disorders.

Conclusions

Our study reveals a causal relationship between urticaria and the increased risk of mental disorders. We suggest that the treatment of urticaria could incorporate psychiatric interventions and mental health assessment of patients.
Novel Cosmetic Ingredient CS‐AA Polyion Complex and Skin Moisturizing Effect
Authors: Jeon Hyungjoon , Shin Yong Won , Won Jong Gu , Park Nojin , Park Sang‐Wook , Son Nam Seo , Kim Mi‐Sun
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The study explored the enhanced skin moisturizing capabilities and moisture retention effects achieved by forming a polyion complex using sulfated glycosaminoglycan (GAG), specifically chondroitin sulfate (CS), and amino acids (AA) such as glutamine (Q) and arginine (R). The overall hydration effect of this CS‐AA complex was examined.

Methods

After analyzing the CS‐AA polyion complex structure using spectroscopic methods, the ex vivo moisture retention ability was assessed under dry conditions using porcine skin samples. Additionally, the efficacy of the CS‐AA polyion complex in reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improving skin hydration was evaluated on human subjects using a digital evaporimeter and a corneometer, respectively.

Results

Validating a systematic reduction in particle size, the following order was observed: CS > CS/AA simple mixture > CS‐AA complex based on dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis. Furthermore, observations revealed that the CS‐AA complex exhibits negligible surface charge. Additionally, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) analysis demonstrated a distinct peak shift in the complex, confirming the successful formation of the CS‐AA complex. Subsequently, the water‐holding effect through porcine skin was assessed, revealing a notable improvement in moisture retention (weight loss) for the CS‐Q complex: 40.6% (1 h), 20.5% (2 h), and 18.7% (4 h) compared to glycerin. Similarly, the CS‐R complex demonstrated enhancements of 50.2% (1 h), 37.5% (2 h), and 33% (4 h) compared to glycerin. Furthermore, TEWL improvement efficacy on human skin demonstrated approximately 25% improvement for both the CS‐Q complex and CS‐R complex, surpassing the modest 12.5% and 18% improvements witnessed with water and glycerin applications, respectively. Finally, employing a corneometer, hydration changes in the skin were monitored over 4 weeks. Although CS alone exhibited nominal alterations, the CS‐Q complex and CS‐R complex showed a significant increase in moisture levels after 4 weeks of application.

Conclusion

In this study, polyion complexes were successfully formed between CS, a sulfated GAG, and AA. Comparisons with glycerin, a well‐known moisturizing agent, confirmed that the CS‐AA complex exhibits superior moisturizing effects in various aspects. These findings suggest that the CS‐AA complex is a more effective ingredient than CS or AA alone in terms of efficacy.
Evaluation of the potential for nine established and emerging interventions to reduce soil carbon losses and increase stocks in grazing systems: A case study for Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Whitehead David , McNally Samuel R. , Graham Scott L. , Pronger Jack , Wall Aaron M. , Isson Terry , Beare Mike H. , Tozer Katherine N. , Doole Graeme J. , Murray Shevani , Mudge Paul L. , Schipper Louis A.
Published: September 2024

This article reviews nine soil carbon interventions to reduce soil carbon losses or increase stocks in grazing management systems, using their potential application in Aotearoa New Zealand (A‐NZ) as a case study. The interventions are classified into three strategies: (1) increasing carbon inputs through deep‐rooting and diverse species grasslands, reducing forage cropping and deferred grazing management; (2) increasing protection of carbon stocks by water table management on organic soils, reducing cropping on organic soils, full inversion tillage grassland renewal, the addition of clay minerals and enhanced rock weathering and (3) the adoption of integrated systems including establishing tree clusters into grasslands and agroforestry. We estimated the land area where these interventions could realistically be implemented in A‐NZ and assessed their potential impact on mitigating national overall agricultural greenhouse gas emissions. The potential impact of each intervention ranged from <1% to 2.5% of national agricultural greenhouse gas emissions over 20 years. However, confidence in these approaches is hindered by a lack of research data where these approaches have been tested for different soil types and conditions. Notably, water table management, which reduces carbon loss from organic soils, was the only intervention that could achieve moderate, short‐ and long‐term impacts with a confidence level assessed as ‘likely’. We conclude that reducing further soil carbon losses and achieving modest increases in soil carbon stocks are possible but will require economic and political incentives that encourage the integration of multiple interventions at the farm scale.
Digital ulcers associated with scleroderma: A major unmet medical need
Authors: Naik Angha , Stratton Richard J. , Leask Andrew
Published: September 2024

Scleroderma or systemic sclerosis (SSc)‐associated digital ischaemic complications, such as digital ulcers (SSc‐DUs), appear relatively early during the disease course and are a major burden with substantial deterioration of quality of life. Expert rheumatologist and wound specialists have defined a DU; however, international application of the definition is still disorganised. Appearance of SSc‐DUs is secondary to the onset of Raynaud's phenomenon and as a consequence, recommended first‐line of treatment mainly includes vasodilators; however, many DUs are refractory to this treatment. Despite important practical issues, such as a lack of well‐characterised SSc‐wound healing animal model, significant efforts are needed to mechanistically understand the pathogenesis of SSc‐DUs for developing clinically targetable disease modifying therapies.
On the relation between pseudocharacters and Chenevier's determinants
Authors: Ophir Amit
Published: September 2024

Consider a commutative unital ring and a unital ‐algebra . Let be a positive integer. Chenevier proved that when is invertible in , the map associating to a determinant its trace is a bijection between ‐valued ‐dimensional determinants of and ‐valued ‐dimensional pseudocharacters of . In this paper, we show that assuming is invertible in is sufficient. This assumption is already made in the definition of a ‐dimensional pseudocharacter. Our proof involves establishing a product formula for pseudocharacters, which might be of independent interest.
CTRP6‐mediated cardiac protection in heart failure via the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signalling pathway
Authors: Fan Tingting , Zhu Ningjun , Li Mengli , Wang Zhen , Lin Xianhe
Published: September 2024

Heart failure (HF) remains a significant global health concern with limited effective treatments available. C1q/TNF‐related protein 6 (CTRP6) is a member of the CTRP family analogous to adiponectin and its role in HF pathogenesis remains unclear. Here, we investigated the impact of CTRP6 on HF progression. To mimic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), we used isoproterenol injection in mice and administered adenovirus vectors expressing CTRP6 (Ad‐CTRP6) via tail vein injection. We assessed cardiac function through echocardiography and histology. CTRP6's effects on hypertrophy, fibrosis, apoptosis, oxidative stress and mitochondrial function were analysed. Downstream pathways (phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase (p‐AMPK), sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator 1‐α (PGC‐1α) were studied in heart tissues. In vitro, isoproterenol‐stimulated H9c2 cardiomyocytes were treated with CTRP6 to examine viability, apoptosis, F‐actin and signalling proteins. Compound C was used to assess AMPK involvement. CTRP6 expression was lower in the plasma of HF patients. In an isoproterenol‐induced HFrEF mouse model, adenovirus‐mediated overexpression of CTRP6 ameliorated cardiac dysfunction and reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation and myocardial injury markers. Mechanistically, CTRP6 activation of the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signalling pathway restored mitochondrial homeostasis, evidenced by reduced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species levels, increased ATP content, and enhanced mitochondrial complex I/III activities in cardiac tissues. In vitro studies using isoproterenol‐stimulated H9c2 cardiomyocytes corroborated these findings, demonstrating that CTRP6 upregulation attenuated hypertrophy, apoptosis, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, these effects were partially reversed by the AMPK inhibitor Compound C, implicating the involvement of the AMPK pathway in CTRP6‐mediated cardioprotection. CTRP6 alleviates HF progression through the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC‐1α signalling pathway.
La valoración de colecciones como herramienta para la gestión del documento musical y su aplicación en el archivo de partituras del compositor colombiano Luis Antonio Escobar
Authors: Casas Rodríguez Ángela Cristina
Published: September 2024

Este artículo presenta, además de una breve contextualización de la situación y problemática actual de la gestión del documento musical en Colombia, algunos conceptos básicos y herramientas orientadoras de la valoración de las colecciones para la gestión de riesgos, propuesta que permitió dar curso al proyecto De documento musical a patrimonio cultural. Valoración cultural del archivo de partituras del compositor Luis Antonio Escobar. Asimismo, resume los resultados de la aplicación de esta propuesta metodológica, así como algunas reflexiones sobre el proyecto y las posibilidades que ofrece para la gestión de acervos similares asociados a la música de tradición escrita.
Contrastive learning explains the emergence and function of visual category-selective regions
Authors: Prince Jacob S. , Alvarez George A. , Konkle Talia
Published: September 2024

Modular and distributed coding theories of category selectivity along the human ventral visual stream have long existed in tension. Here, we present a reconciling framework—contrastive coding—based on a series of analyses relating category selectivity within biological and artificial neural networks. We discover that, in models trained with contrastive self-supervised objectives over a rich natural image diet, category-selective tuning naturally emerges for faces, bodies, scenes, and words. Further, lesions of these model units lead to selective, dissociable recognition deficits, highlighting their distinct functional roles in information processing. Finally, these pre-identified units can predict neural responses in all corresponding face-, scene-, body-, and word-selective regions of human visual cortex, under a highly constrained sparse positive encoding procedure. The success of this single model indicates that brain-like functional specialization can emerge without category-specific learning pressures, as the system learns to untangle rich image content. Contrastive coding, therefore, provides a unifying account of object category emergence and representation in the human brain.
Optimizing selectivity via membrane molecular packing manipulation for simultaneous cation and anion screening
Authors: Meng Qing-Wei , Li Jianguo , Lai Zhuozhi , Xian Weipeng , Wang Sai , Chen Fang , Dai Zhifeng , Zhang Li , Yin Hong , Ma Shengqian , Sun Qi
Published: September 2024

Advancing membranes with enhanced solute-solute selectivity is essential for expanding membrane technology applications, yet it presents a notable challenge. Drawing inspiration from the unparalleled selectivity of biological systems, which benefit from the sophisticated spatial organization of functionalities, we posit that manipulating the arrangement of the membrane’s building blocks, an aspect previously given limited attention, can address this challenge. We demonstrate that optimizing the face-to-face orientation of building blocks during the assembly of covalent-organic-framework (COF) membranes improves ion-π interactions with multivalent ions. This optimization leads to extraordinary selectivity in differentiating between monovalent cations and anions from their multivalent counterparts, achieving selectivity factors of 214 for K
+
/Al
3+
and 451 for NO
3
−
/PO
4
3−
. Leveraging this attribute, the COF membrane facilitates the direct extraction of NaCl from seawater with a purity of 99.57%. These findings offer an alternative approach for designing highly selective membrane materials, offering promising prospects for advancing membrane-based technologies.
OptoAssay—Light-controlled dynamic bioassay using optogenetic switches
Authors: Urban Nadine , Hörner Maximillian , Weber Wilfried , Dincer Can
Published: September 2024

Circumventing the limitations of current bioassays, we introduce a light-controlled assay, OptoAssay, toward wash- and pump-free point-of-care diagnostics. Extending the capabilities of standard bioassays with light-dependent and reversible interaction of optogenetic switches, OptoAssays enable a bidirectional movement of assay components, only by changing the wavelength of light. Demonstrating exceptional versatility, the OptoAssay showcases its efficacy on various substrates, delivering a dynamic bioassay format. The applicability of the OptoAssay is successfully demonstrated by the calibration of a competitive model assay, resulting in a superior limit of detection of 8 pg ml
−1
, which is beyond those of conventional ELISA tests. In the future, combined with smartphones, OptoAssays could obviate the need for external flow control systems such as pumps or valves and signal readout devices, enabling on-site analysis in resource-limited settings.
Preserving surface strain in nanocatalysts via morphology control
Authors: Shi Chuqiao , Cheng Zhihua , Leonardi Alberto , Yang Yao , Engel Michael , Jones Matthew R. , Han Yimo
Published: September 2024

Engineering strain critically affects the properties of materials and has extensive applications in semiconductors and quantum systems. However, the deployment of strain-engineered nanocatalysts faces challenges, in particular in maintaining highly strained nanocrystals under reaction conditions. Here, we introduce a morphology-dependent effect that stabilizes surface strain even under harsh reaction conditions. Using four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM), we found that cube-shaped core-shell Au@Pd nanoparticles with sharp-edged morphologies sustain coherent heteroepitaxial interfaces with larger critical thicknesses than morphologies with rounded edges. This configuration inhibits dislocation nucleation due to reduced shear stress at corners, as indicated by molecular dynamics simulations. A Suzuki-type cross-coupling reaction shows that our approach achieves a fourfold increase in activity over conventional nanocatalysts, owing to the enhanced stability of surface strain. These findings contribute to advancing the development of advanced nanocatalysts and indicate broader applications for strain engineering in various fields.
Deep learning for enhanced spectral analysis of MA-XRF datasets of paintings
Authors: Preisler Zdenek , Andolina Rosario , Busacca Andrea , Caliri Claudia , Miliani Costanza , Romano Francesco P.
Published: September 2024

Recent advancements of noninvasive imaging techniques applied for the study and conservation of paintings have driven a rapid development of cutting-edge computational methods. Macro x-ray fluorescence (MA-XRF), a well-established tool in this domain, generates complex and voluminous datasets that pose analytical challenges. To address this, we have incorporated machine learning strategies specifically designed for the analysis as they allow for identification of nontrivial dependencies and classification within these high-dimensional data, thereby promising comprehensive interrogation. We introduce a deep learning algorithm trained on a synthetic dataset that allows for fast and accurate analysis of the XRF spectra in MA-XRF datasets. This approach successfully overcomes the limitations commonly associated with traditional deconvolution methods. Applying this methodology to a painting by Raphael, we demonstrate that our model not only achieves superior accuracy in quantifying the fluorescence line intensities but also effectively eliminates the artifacts typically observed in elemental maps generated through conventional analysis methods.
Four decades of Hawaiian monk seal entanglement data reveal the benefits of plastic debris removal
Authors: Baker Jason D. , Johanos Thea C. , Ronco Hope , Becker Brenda L. , Morioka James , O’Brien Kevin , Donohue Mary J.
Published: September 2024

Abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear causes harm to marine species and ecosystems. To mitigate the destruction wrought by this ocean plastic debris, various cleanup programs have been established, though to our knowledge the benefits of such efforts to marine species and ecosystems have not yet been empirically demonstrated. We examined more than 40 years of Hawaiian monk seal marine debris entanglement records before and after large-scale marine debris removal efforts were initiated in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, demonstrating a substantial reduction in entanglement rates where debris removal effort was most concentrated. Large-scale and sustained removal of abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear meaningfully benefits marine ecosystems and has the potential to be transformational in restoration efforts.
Photochemical phosphorus-enabled scaffold remodeling of carboxylic acids
Authors: Peng Qiupeng , Hwang Meemie U. , Rentería-Gómez Ángel , Mukherjee Poulami , Young Ryan M. , Qiu Yunfan , Wasielewski Michael R. , Gutierrez Osvaldo , Scheidt Karl A.
Published: September 2024

The excitation of carbonyl compounds by light to generate radical intermediates has historically been restricted to ketones and aldehydes; carboxylic acids have been overlooked because of high energy requirements and low quantum efficiency. A successful activation strategy would necessitate a bathochromic shift in the absorbance profile, an increase in triplet diradical lifetime, and ease of further functionalization. We present a single-flask transformation of carboxylic acids to acyl phosphonates that can access synthetically useful triplet diradicals under visible light or near-ultraviolet irradiation. The use of phosphorus circumvents unproductive Norrish type I processes, promoting selectivity that enables hydrogen-atom transfer reactivity. Use of this strategy promotes the efficient scaffold remodeling of carboxylic acids through various annulation, contraction, and expansion manifolds.
A little care before we leap
Authors: Campos Luis A.
Published: September 2024

The open letter that spurred the historic Asilomar conference turns 50
Picture imperfect
Authors: Piller Charles
Published: September 2024

Did a top NIH official, neuroscientist Eliezer Masliah, doctor influential Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s studies for decades?
Prevalence and associations of parapapillary scleral ridges: the Beijing Eye Study
Authors: Jonas Jost B , Panda-Jonas Songhomitra , Xu Jie , Wei Wenbin , Wang Ya Xing
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To explore the prevalence and associated factors of parapapillary scleral ridges (PSRs).

Methods

Out of the cohort of the population-based Beijing Eye Study (n=3468 participants), the study included all eyes with an axial length of ≥25 mm and a randomised sample of eyes with an axial length of <25 mm. Using optical coherence tomographic (OCT) images and fundus photographs, we examined the presence and height of PSRs, defined as a ridge-like structure located on the OCT scans in the parapapillary region.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 366 eyes (314 individuals; mean age: 63.7±9.7 years). PSR prevalence increased from 0% in the non-myopic group to 3.8% (95% CI 0.3%, 7.3%) in moderately myopic group and 29.2% (95% CI 15.7%, 42.5%) in the highly myopic group. All PSRs were located in the temporal parapapillary gamma zone and corresponded to an ophthalmoscopically visible demarcation line running almost parallel to the optic disc border. Higher PRS prevalence correlated with longer axial length (OR 2.98; 95% CI 1.99, 4.46; p<0.001), female sex (OR 6.48; 95% CI 1.56, 27.0; p=0.01) and older age (OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.01, 1.18; p=0.02). Axial length had the strongest influence (beta: 0.48), followed by sex (beta: 0.20) and age (beta: 0.14). If age was dropped from the multivariable model, myopic maculopathy prevalence (OR 10.0; 95% CI 1.41,70.9; p=0.02) and stage (OR 3.57; 95% CI 1.21, 10.6; p=0.02) became significantly correlated with higher PSR prevalence.

Conclusions

With a PSR prevalence of >60% in eyes with an axial length of >28 mm, PSRs are a common morphological feature of high myopia, with age and female sex as additional associated factors. PSRs may be due to a biomechanical interplay between the optic nerve and the posterior ocular segment of markedly axially elongated eyes.
Impact of the number of dissected lymph nodes on machine learning-based prediction of postoperative lung cancer recurrence: a single-hospital retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kojima Kensuke , Samejima Hironobu , Okishio Kyoichi , Tokunaga Toshiteru , Yoon Hyungeun , Atagi Shinji
Published: September 2024

Background

The optimal number of lymph nodes to be dissected during lung cancer surgery to minimise the postoperative recurrence risk remains undetermined. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of the number of dissected lymph nodes on the risk of postoperative recurrence of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using machine learning algorithms and statistical analyses.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 650 patients with NSCLC who underwent complete resection. Five machine learning models were trained using clinicopathological variables to predict postoperative recurrence. The relationship between the number of dissected lymph nodes and postoperative recurrence was investigated in the best-performing model using Shapley additive explanations values and partial dependence plots. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis was performed to estimate the HR for postoperative recurrence based on the number of dissected nodes.

Results

The random forest model demonstrated superior predictive performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: 0.92, accuracy: 0.83, F1 score: 0.64). The partial dependence plot of this model revealed a non-linear dependence of the number of dissected lymph nodes on recurrence prediction within the range of 0–20 nodes, with the weakest dependence at 10 nodes. A linear increase in the dependence was observed for ≥20 dissected nodes. A multivariable analysis revealed a significantly elevated risk of recurrence in the group with ≥20 dissected nodes in comparison to those with <20 nodes (adjusted HR, 1.45; 95% CI 1.003 to 2.087).

Conclusions

The number of dissected lymph nodes was significantly associated with the risk of postoperative recurrence of NSCLC. The risk of recurrence is minimised when approximately 10 nodes are dissected but may increase when >20 nodes are removed. Limiting lymph node dissection to approximately 20 nodes may help to preserve a favourable antitumour immune environment. These findings provide novel insights into the optimisation of lymph node dissection during lung cancer surgery.
Sporadic fatal insomnia
Authors: Del Chicca Marta , Belli Elisabetta , Nicoletti Valentina , Bergamin Enrico , Giampietri Linda , Pascazio Alessia , Maestri Tassoni Michelangelo , Baldacci Filippo , Siciliano Gabriele , Tognoni Gloria
Published: September 2024

We describe a 63-year-old man diagnosed with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (sCJD), specifically sporadic fatal insomnia, confirmed through real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) analysis of cerebrospinal fluid and polysomnography. He presented with rapid cognitive decline, behavioural changes, sleep disturbances and dysautonomic symptoms. Initial MR imaging, electroencephalogram and cerebrospinal fluid analyses were inconclusive, highlighting the difficulty in diagnosing this rare subtype of CJD. Clinical evaluation is fundamental in defining the diagnosis of sCJD. When clinical suspicion is strong, the diagnostic work-up should be continued. In this case, the combination of comprehensive clinical evaluations and advanced diagnostic tools, including RT-QuIC and polysomnography, proved essential in making a definitive diagnosis.
Study of two quasiparticle structures of odd–odd 90−94Nb isotopes
Authors: Gupta Simi , Bakshi Ridham , Kumar Amit , Gupta Arun , Singh Suram , Bharti Arun , Bhat G. H. , Sheikh J. A.
Published: September 2024

The positive and negative parity rotational band structures of odd–odd Nb isotopes with atomic masses 90, 92 and 94 are investigated using the theoretical framework of the projected shell model. These odd–odd nuclei are found to be ideal for investigating the significant structural changes occurring in the region situated far from the valley of stability. This is the first time that such comprehensive theoretical data for both positive and negative parities together for the odd–odd [Formula: see text]Nb isotopes have been disclosed. The g-factor and electromagnetic transition probabilities are among the various nuclear structure quantities that are examined for the first time. Using a broad configuration space for both protons and neutrons, the computed data have been anticipated up to high spin values.
Longitudinal intravital microscopy of the mouse kidney: inflammatory responses to abdominal imaging windows
Authors: Martinez Michelle M. , Walsh Julia R. , Kamocka Malgorzata M. , Lee Hyowon , Dunn Kenneth W.
Published: September 2024

Intravital microscopy studies of LysM-EGFP mice demonstrate that abdominal imaging windows placed over the kidney stimulated a variety of changes consistent with a foreign body response. Within a day of implantation, leukocytes were recruited to the window where, over the next 16 days, they increased in number in an expanding volume that developed a new vascular network. These changes were accompanied by a dramatic increase in glomerular permeability to albumin.
Acute kidney injury results in long-term alterations of kidney lymphatics in mice
Authors: Ghajar-Rahimi Gelare , Barwinska Daria , Whipple Grace E. , Kamocka Malgorzata M. , Khan Shehnaz , Winfree Seth , Lafontaine Jennifer , Soliman Reham H. , Melkonian Arin L. , Zmijewska Anna A. , Cheung Matthew D. , Traylor Amie M. , Jiang Yanlin , Yang Zhengqin , Bolisetty Subhashini , Zarjou Abolfazl , Lee Timmy , George James F. , El-Achkar Tarek M. , Agarwal Anupam
Published: September 2024

Here, we perform the first, comprehensive study of long-term lymphatic dynamics following a single acute kidney injury (AKI) event. Using improved three-dimensional image analysis and an expanded panel of transcriptional markers, we identify multiple stages of lymphatic responses with distinct transcriptional signatures, associations with the immune microenvironment, and collagen deposition. This research advances kidney lymphatic biology, emphasizing the significance of longitudinal studies in understanding AKI and the transition to chronic kidney disease.
Pathogenesis of HIV-associated nephropathy in children and adolescents: taking a hard look 40 years later in the era of gene-environment interactions
Authors: Ray Patricio E. , Li Jinliang , Das Jharna , Xu Lian , Yu Jing , Han Zhe
Published: September 2024

HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is a kidney disease that affects mainly people of African ancestry with a high HIV-1 viral load. New antiretroviral therapies (ART) have been highly efficient in preventing and improving the outcome of HIVAN. However, providing chronic ART to children and adolescents living with HIV (CALWH) remains a significant challenge all over the world. More than 2.5 million CALWH, including those living in Sub-Saharan Africa, continue to be at high risk of developing HIVAN. Much of our understanding of the pathogenesis of HIVAN is based on studies conducted in transgenic mice and adults with HIVAN. However, CALWH may experience different health outcomes, risk factors, and susceptibilities to HIVAN in comparison to adults. This article reviews the progress made over the last 40 years in understanding the pathogenesis of HIVAN in CALWH, focusing on how the HIV virus, alongside genetic and environmental factors, contributes to the development of this disease. The landmark discovery that two risk alleles of the apolipoprotein-1 (APOL1) gene play a critical role in HIVAN has significantly advanced our understanding of the disease’s pathogenesis. However, we still need to understand why renal inflammation persists despite ART and determine whether the kidney may harbor HIV reservoirs that need to be eliminated to cure HIV permanently. For these reasons, we emphasize reviewing how HIV-1 infects renal cells, affects their growth and regeneration, and discussing how inflammatory cytokines and APOL1 affect the outcome of childhood HIVAN.
Effectiveness of Video‐Based Health Education on Breastfeeding Practices Among Infants Aged 0–6 Months in Dirashe District, South Ethiopia: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Boynito Wanzahun Godana , Diongue Ousmane , Temesgen Kidus , Yeshitila Yordanos Gizachew , Tessema Godana Yaya , De Souza Marielle , De Henauw Stefaan , Diouf Adama , Abbeddou Souheila
Published: September 2024

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) of infants during the first 6 months of their life is strongly recommended. Video‐based communication is an innovative method that could promote EBF. The present study is aimed at assessing the effectiveness of video‐based intervention in promoting breastfeeding practices from birth to 6 months postpartum. This was evaluated through maternal reports, as well as EBF of infants at 3 and 5 months of age, using the deuterium oxide dose‐to‐mother (DTM) technique.

Methods: In a cluster randomized community trial, 16 communities were assigned to receive a video‐based behavior change communication (Video‐Health) or standard health care messages (Control). Pregnant women in their first trimester (12 ± 2 weeks) were enrolled and followed up, together with their infants, until 6 months postpartum. Data on breastfeeding practices were collected by questionnaire, monthly, in all the participants (n = 508). Human milk intake (HMI) and nonmilk oral intake (NMOI) were measured in a subsample of 60 mother–infant pairs at 3 and 5 months postpartum using DTM. Mixed models and logistic regression were used to examine the difference in continuous and discrete breastmilk practices between the intervention and the control arms, respectively.

Results: The majority of mothers initiated breastfeeding early (92.1%), 82.4% reported colostrum feeding, and 17.5% provided prelacteal feeding. No significant differences were found between Video‐Health and Control arms (p > 0.05). The intervention significantly improved reported EBF rates at 4 and 5 months postpartum (p < 0.05). DTM results showed that the proportion of women practicing EBF was 50%–67% less than reported at 3 months for both arms and at 5 months in the intervention arm. The intervention did not significantly affect measured EBF at 3 and 5 months postpartum but did improve HMI at 3 months. Non significant differences in NMOI were observed at 3 months, but at 5 months, there was a significant difference between the study arms.

Conclusions: Video‐based behavior change communication did not result in significant improvements in reported breastfeeding practices, except for a higher reported adherence to EBF beyond 3 months. Additionally, the intervention had no effect on EBF as measured by the DTM. Early introduction of non‐breastmilk foods and liquids persisted, despite self‐reported EBF extending up to 6 months postpartum.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04414527
The Concerns Expressed by Spanish Wage‐Earners in Regard to Psychosocial Risk Factors during the 2008 Crisis
Authors: Bilbao-Ubillos Javier , Leivar-Santiago Dolores , Ramos-Carvajal Carmen
Published: September 2024

Background. Social and organisational changes in businesses have led to the appearance of “emergent risks” which affect workers but are less evident and hard to quantify such as psychosocial risks. Linked to psychosocial risks, issues such as work‐related stress and workplace violence are major challenges to occupational health and safety. This paper analyses the trends in the concerns expressed by wage‐earners in Spain regarding psychosocial factors that may affect them in the workplace. Methods. A causal analysis based on the application of binary logistic regression is presented, covering certain social and occupational characteristics of survey respondents and the psychosocial factors included in the Spanish National Surveys of Working Conditions for 2007 and for 2011‐2012. Binary logistic regression is a multivariate statistical tool that serves as a classification technique, identifying the variables that affect the probability of the event to be studied (dichotomous variable). This technique has the advantage that it does not require that the explanatory variables follow a normal distribution. The aim is to estimate the influence of the explanatory variables on the probability of the occurrence of the event under study, represented by the explained variable. Results. During the economic crisis of 2008, workers became more concerned about losing their jobs and about factors related to personnel cutbacks and decreases in investment in the prevention of occupational risks. Downsizing due to the crisis led to increased workloads for many of those still in work. Thus, in 2011, the likelihood of workers being concerned about working hours was greater, especially among respondents aged 25–34 and those working in commerce and transport. Workload was found to be a particular concern among respondents aged 25–34 and among workers in transport, communication, financial, professional, and administrative activities; health‐related activities; and industry. Conclusions. Policy should also be directed towards improving the structural aspects of psychosocial variations, in terms of work conditions, employment protection, and employment security to protect workers against income fluctuations as a result of job loss.
Review on Recent Advance of 3DP‐Based Pediatric Drug Formulations
Authors: Tegegne Aychew Mekuriaw , Ayenew Kassahun Dires , Selam Muluken Nigatu
Published: September 2024

Three‐dimensional printing (3DP) has emerged as a game‐changing technology in the pharmaceutical industry, providing novel formulation development in the pharmaceutical sector as a whole, which improved patients’ individualized therapy. The pediatric population is among the key targets for individualized therapy. Children are a diverse group that includes neonates, infants, and toddlers, each with unique physiological characteristics. Treatment adherence has a significant impact on safe and effective pharmacotherapy in the pediatric population. Improvement of therapeutic dosage forms that provide for the special demands of the pediatric population is a significant challenge for the pharmaceutical industry. Scientists have actively explored 3DP, a quick prototype manufacturing method that has emerged in recent years from many occupations due to its benefits of modest operation, excellent reproducibility, and vast adaptability. This review illuminates the most widely used 3DP technology and its application in the development of pediatric‐friendly drug formulations. This 3DP technology allows optimization of pediatric dosage regimens and cases that require individualized treatment, such as geriatrics, renal impairment, liver impairment, critically ill, pregnancy populations, and drugs with nonlinear pharmacokinetics. The fast evolution of 3DP expertise, in addition to the introduction of pharmaceutical inks, has enormous promise for patient dosage form customization.
Employment of Low‐Temperature Concentrated Solar Heat to Synthesize Zinc Oxide Nanostructures
Authors: Villa-Miranda Claudia-Daniella , Carranza-Chávez Francisco J. , Sauceda-Carvajal Daniel , Cuentas-Gallegos Ana-Karina , Zavala-Guillén Ivett , Borbón-Núñez Hugo A.
Published: September 2024

The use of solar heat as energy input for the synthesis of some types of nanomaterials with great demand provides an alternative to the utilization of energy from the grid or other sources, which often come from fossil fuels. Thus, it can be seen as a valid approach to green chemistry. In this work, the synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) through a wet chemical method, using low‐temperature solar heat is investigated. The concept of compound parabolic concentrator was employed to construct a solar collector which also served as a synthesis reactor. Solar radiation was concentrated on the outer surface of a tubular receiver, while the synthesis reaction occurred inside. The natural fluctuations of solar radiation caused the synthesis temperature to vary between 50 and 70°C. Three solar syntheses were done at these conditions. For comparison, three other syntheses were done at 50, 60, and 70°C of constant temperature, in an electric hot plate, under controlled laboratory conditions and using electricity from the grid. Crystalline clusters of nanoflakes with sizes between 40.4 and 55.7 nm of pure ZnO were obtained using solar heat, remarkably similar in shape and size to those made in the laboratory at 50°C. However, a slightly lower bandgap energy of 3.27 eV was attained. The band gap energies of the ZnO grown at 50, 60, and 70°C were 3.28, 3.31, and 3.29 eV, respectively. In the ultraviolet range, nearly 90% of absorbance was observed for all the ZnO manufactured, regardless of the synthesis temperature. Therefore, these results may help demonstrate that it is feasible to produce high‐quality ZnO with low‐temperature solar heat, establishing a new green approach for the synthesis of nanomaterials.
The Number of Global Solutions for GPS Source Localization in Two‐Dimension
Authors: Kwon Kiwoon
Published: September 2024

Source localization is widely used in many areas including GPS, but the influence of possible noises cannot be overlooked. Many optimization methods have been attempted to mitigate different kinds of noises. However, the stability of the solution, even the number of global solutions, is not fully known. Only local convergence or stability for the optimization problem is known in simpleL1orL2settings. In this paper, we prove that the number of possible two‐dimensional source locations with three measurements inL2setting is at most 5. We also showed the sufficient and necessary condition for the number of the solutions being 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, where the measurement triangle is isosceles and the measurement distance for the two isosceles triangles is the same.
Towards Robust Evaluation of Aesthetic and Photographic Quality Metrics: Insights from a Comprehensive Dataset
Authors: Santos Iria , Casal Miguel A. , Correia João , Torrente-Patiño Álvaro , Machado Penousal , Romero Juan
Published: September 2024

In recent years, the development of metrics to evaluate image aesthetics and photographic quality has proliferated. However, validating these metrics presents challenges due to the inherently subjective nature of aesthetics and photographic quality, which can be influenced by cultural contexts and individual preferences that evolve over time. This article presents a novel validation methodology utilizing a dataset assessed by individuals from two distinct nationalities: the United States and Spain. Evaluation criteria include photographic quality and aesthetic value, with the dataset comprising images previously rated on the DPChallenge photographic portal. We analyze the correlation between these values and provide the dataset for future research endeavors. Our investigation encompasses several metrics, including BRISQUE for assessing photographic quality, NIMA aesthetic and NIMA technical for evaluating both aesthetic and technical aspects, Diffusion Aesthetics (employed in Stable Diffusion), and PhotoILike for gauging the commercial appeal of real estate images. Our findings reveal a significant correlation between the Diffusion Aesthetics metric and aesthetic measures, as well as with the NIMA aesthetics metric, suggesting them as good potential candidates to capture aesthetic value.
Preservation Potential of Fenugreek Seed and Leaf Extracts in Mayonnaise: Impact on Antioxidant Activity, Peroxide Value, and Sensory Quality
Authors: Turker Izzet , Isleroglu Hilal , Pandiselvam R.
Published: September 2024

Fenugreek extracts have remarkable antioxidant properties and can be used as natural preservatives for products containing a large amount of oil, such as mayonnaise. In this study, mayonnaise was enriched with phenolic extracts of fenugreek seeds (FSE) and fenugreek leaves (FLE), and the quality attributes of the enriched mayonnaises were investigated during storage. FSE and FLE were added to mayonnaise at three different levels (0.05, 0.10, and 0.20%), and the samples were stored at 4°C for 12 weeks and at 25°C for 6 weeks. Antioxidant activity, peroxide value, titratable acidity, color change, and microbial and sensory analysis were performed. As a result, enrichment of mayonnaise with FSE and FLE improved its quality properties during storage. The antioxidant activities of the added FSE and FLE samples were preserved ∼87% and ∼47% at 4°C, and 81% and ∼27% at 25°C, respectively. Furthermore, the increase in the peroxide values of the enriched mayonnaise with extracts during storage was less than that of the added synthetic antioxidant (EDTA) samples. The highest total color change (ΔE) was observed for FLE‐added samples for all levels of addition. Multifactorial ANOVA showed significant effects (p < 0.05) of type and concentration of additives, storage time, and their interactions on antioxidant activity, peroxide value, titratable acidity, and color change at both storage temperatures (4°C and 25°C). R2 and adj‐R2 values indicated highly accurate models for all parameters. The addition of FLE and FSE at the highest level (0.20%) prevented the growth of total aerobic mesophilic bacteria by 2.1 and 3.2 logs and the growth of total yeast/mold by 1.0 and 1.3 logs at 25°C, respectively. Sensory attributes (color, odor, taste, texture, and general acceptance) of the mayonnaises added to FSE and FLE had higher scores than the control sample at the end of storage.