bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurovascular phase coherence is altered in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Bjerkan Juliane , Meglič Bernard , Lancaster Gemma , Kobal Jan , McClintock Peter V E , Crawford Trevor J , Stefanovska Aneta
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s disease is the commonest form of dementia, but its cause still remains elusive. It is characterized by neurodegeneration, with amyloid-beta and tau aggregation. Recently, however, the roles of the vasculature and the neurovascular unit are being highlighted as important for disease progression. In particular, there is reduced microvascular density, and altered gene expression in vascular and glial cells. Structural changes naturally impact the functioning of the neurovascular unit, and the goal of the study was to quantify the corresponding changes in vivo, non-invasively. Our assessment is based on recordings of brain oxygenation, neuronal and cardiorespiratory activities, captured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy, electroencephalogram, electrocardiogram and respiration effort, respectively. Two groups were compared: an Alzheimer’s disease group (N = 19) and a control group (N = 20) of similar age. The time-series were analysed using methods that can capture multi-scale and time-varying oscillations such as the wavelet transform power and wavelet phase coherence. The Alzheimer’s disease group shows a significant decrease in the power of brain oxygenation oscillations compared to the control group. There is also a significant global reduction in the phase coherence between brain oxygenation time-series. The neurovascular phase coherence around 0.1 Hz is also significantly reduced in the Alzheimer’s disease group. In addition, the average respiration rate is increased in the Alzheimer’s disease group compared to the control group. We show that the phase coherence between vascular and neuronal activities is reduced in Alzheimer’s disease compared to the control group, indicating altered functioning of the neurovascular unit. The brain oxygenation dynamics reveals reduced power and coordination of oscillations, especially in frequency ranges that are associated with vasomotion. This could lead to reduced oxygen delivery to the brain, which could affect ATP production, and potentially reduce amyloid-beta clearance. These changes in neurovascular dynamics have potential for early diagnosis, as a marker of disease progression, and for evaluating the effect of interventions.
Amyloid-β and tau deposition in traumatic brain injury: a study of Vietnam War veterans
Authors: de Bruin Hannah , Groot Colin , Kamps Suzie , Vijverberg Everard G B , Steward Anna , Dehsarvi Amir , Pijnenburg Yolande A L , Ossenkoppele Rik , Franzmeier Nicolai
Published: January 2025

Traumatic brain injury is widely viewed as a risk factor for dementia, but the biological mechanisms underlying this association are still unclear. In previous studies, traumatic brain injury has been associated with the hallmark pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease, i.e. amyloid-β plaques and neurofibrillary tangles comprised of hyperphosphorylated tau. Depending on the type and location of trauma, traumatic brain injury can induce spatially heterogeneous brain lesions that may pre-dispose for the development of Alzheimer’s disease pathology in aging. Therefore, we hypothesized that a history of traumatic brain injury may be related to spatially heterogeneous amyloid-β and tau pathology patterns that deviate from the stereotypical temporo-parietal patterns in Alzheimer’s disease. To test this, we included 103 Vietnam War veterans of whom 65 had experienced traumatic brain injury (n = 40, 38.8% mild; n = 25, 24.3% moderate/severe). Most individuals had a history of 1 (n = 35, 53.8%) or 2 (n = 15, 23.1%) traumatic brain injury events. We included the group without a history of traumatic brain injury (n = 38, 36.9%) as controls. The majority was cognitively normal (n = 80, 77.7%), while a subset had mild cognitive impairment (n = 23, 22.3%). All participants underwent [18F]florbetapir/Amyvid amyloid-β PET and [18F]flortaucipir/Tauvid tau-PET 39.63 ± 18.39 years after their last traumatic brain injury event. We found no differences in global amyloid-β and tau-PET levels between groups, suggesting that a history of traumatic brain injury does not pre-dispose to accumulate amyloid-β or tau pathology in general. However, we found that traumatic brain injury was associated with altered spatial patterns of amyloid-β and tau, with relatively greater deposition in fronto-parietal brain regions. These regions are prone to damage in traumatic brain injury, while they are typically only affected in later stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, in our traumatic brain injury groups, the association between amyloid-β and tau was reduced in Alzheimer-typical temporal regions but increased in frontal regions that are commonly associated with traumatic brain injury. Altogether, while acknowledging the relatively small sample size and generally low levels of Alzheimer’s disease pathology in this sample, our findings suggest that traumatic brain injury induces spatial patterns of amyloid-β and tau that differ from patterns observed in typical Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, traumatic brain injury may be associated with a de-coupling of amyloid-β and tau in regions vulnerable in Alzheimer’s disease. These findings indicate that focal brain damage in early/mid-life may change neurodegenerative trajectories in late-life.
A photovoltaic-storage system configuration and operation optimization model based on Model Predictive Control
Authors: He Puyu , Zhang Yuhong , Jiao Jie , Ren Wenshi , Zhang Jiyuan , Long Zhuhan
Published: January 2025

The deployment of distributed photovoltaic technology is of paramount importance for developing a novel power system architecture wherein renewable energy constitutes the primary energy source. This paper investigates the construction and operation of a residential photovoltaic energy storage system in the context of the current step-peak-valley tariff system. Firstly, an introduction to the structure of the photovoltaic -energy storage system and the associated tariff system will be provided. Secondly, to minimize the investment and annual operational and maintenance costs of the photovoltaic -energy storage system, an optimal capacity allocation model for photovoltaic and storage is established, which serves as the foundation for the two-layer operation optimization model. And the installed capacity of photovoltaic and energy storage is derived from the capacity allocation model and utilized as the fundamental parameter in the operation optimization model. Furthermore, taking into account the impact of the step-peak-valley tariff on the user's long-term energy use strategy, a two-layer optimization operation algorithm for the photovoltaic -storage system based on model predictive control is proposed. The upper model is an annual optimization based on the step tariff, to maximize the annual comprehensive revenue. The lower model is a daily rolling optimization based on the peak-valley tariff, to minimize the daily operation cost. The operation schemes of the photovoltaic system and energy storage in the lower layer model utilize the upper layer optimization results as a reference point, correcting for any deviations in the system state due to uncertainty factors. Ultimately, the results of the arithmetic simulation demonstrate that the proposed models can delay the introduction of high-step tariffs and significantly enhance the overall benefit to residential users.
Study on the Assessment of Solar Energy Potential for Production of Electricity: A Case Study of Uzbekistan
Authors: Kodirov Dilshod , Tursunov Obid , Zhou Yuguang , Li Gang , Yu Qiang
Published: January 2025

Solar energy is a well-known form of renewable energy because of its direct conversion to heat and electricity, limited supply, ease of use, and potential for storage. Finding and selecting appropriate locations for the use of solar energy is essential given Uzbekistan's potential in this area, as well as the nation's need for this kind of energy. Hence, it is essential to create a thorough and comprehensive examination of the solar energy potential if Uzbekistan wants to use solar energy as its main renewable energy source for the production of electricity. The development of solar power generation, both nationally and regionally, would greatly benefit from the application of such an analysis technique. This study analyzes hourly, daily, monthly, and annual data on the effective use of solar energy in Uzbekistan. According to these investigations, the maximum power from solar photovoltaics was observed in July. In this case, the average value of fell in the range of 11-13 hours was 1.43 kWh/m2, and the value of the aggregate during the day was 7.15 kWh/m2. The results of the simulation experiment were compared with the generation of electricity from a 4.5 kW solar power plant. Consequently, the annual electricity generation was 1224.18 kWh. The forecast figure modeled by the PVsyst program was 1428.24 kWh. It was established that the difference between the results of the simulation experiment and the actual performance indicators was 14.5%. Based on satellite data, the lowest indicator of the intensity of direct solar radiation in the territory of the country was calculated for the Fergana Valley (Fergana, Andijan, and Namangan regions), which varied from 1500 kWh/m2 per year to 1900-2100 kWh/m2 per year in the north of the country (Republic of Karakalpakstan, Khorezm region, and north of the Navoi region).
Effect of Inter Turbine Spacing in Omnidirectional Wind for Savonius Cluster: A Computational Fluid Dynamics and Artificial Neural Network Approach
Authors: Malge Atul Umakant , Tomar Shivam Singh , Dewan Anupam
Published: January 2025

This research explores the potential of wind energy as a sustainable solution to the environmental challenges by focusing on the deployment of vertical axis wind turbines in confined spaces, such as urban rooftops, ship decks and gas stations etc. It aims to identify the optimal configuration for a cluster of three rotors by varying geometric parameters, assessing the omnidirectionality of the rotors, and using an artificial neural network as an optimization tool. The methodology involves two-dimensional unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes computational fluid dynamics simulations followed by building and training an artificial neural network. The results indicate that the best cluster configuration, achieving a power coefficient of 0.2517, consists of a horizontal distance of 0.08D, vertical distance of 0.1D, and wind direction of 232°. The accuracy of neural network is demonstrated by a mere 1.206% discrepancy with the computational analysis, thus highlighting its potential as a time-saving tool in the optimization process. Additionally, the average power coefficient across all wind directions was found to be 0.194, thus confirming the strong omnidirectional characteristics of cluster. The study also notes a significant speed-up region between the rotors, which creates a low-pressure area, enhancing the power coefficient of the downstream rotor and demonstrating the advantages of this pressure-based turbine configuration. This comprehensive study establishes the efficacy of neural network in optimizing wind turbine clusters, thus significantly expediting their design and development process.
Safety and Efficacy of 3 Alternative Regimens Against Relapsing Plasmodium vivax Malaria in Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase–Deficient Patients in the Brazilian Amazon (ALTPRIM)
Authors: Barbosa Laila , Brito-Sousa José , Nascimento Cristiana , Pacheco Ana , Alexandre Márcia , Alencar Aline , Melo Marly , Omena Aretha , Souza Ingrid , Silva Emanuelle , Queiroz Michael , Siqueira Vitória , Rabelo Cristina , Baía-da-Silva Djane , Silva Débora , Rocha Yasmin , Barbosa Antônio , Castro Ramon , Almeida Anne , Brito Marcelo , Lopes Adriana , Balieiro Antônio , Costa Mônica , Amaral Thais , Valle Cristiane , Vieira Alexia , Gonzaga Jhon , Pereira Dhélio , Alecrim Maria , Monteiro Wuelton , Lacerda Marcus , Melo Gisely
Published: January 2025

Background

Daily primaquine-induced hemolysis is a common cause of complications during Plasmodium vivax malaria treatment in individuals with glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PDd). Alternative regimens balancing safety and efficacy are needed.

Methods

G6PDd participants with P. vivax malaria from 2 sites in Brazilian Amazon between 2018 and 2022 were randomly allocated to 3 arms that received chloroquine (CQ) from day 1 to day 3 plus (arm 1) a 7-day course of primaquine (PQ) (0.5 mg/kg/day), beginning at day 5; (arm 2) weekly PQ over 8 weeks (0.75 mg/kg/wk); or (arm 3) weekly CQ over 12 weeks (5 mg/kg/wk). A normal-G6PD participants group was also enrolled in parallel using CQ for 3 days plus PQ for 7 days. The primary focus was safety profile; secondary was the number of patients free from the first recurrence until day 180.

Results

Fifty-four G6PDd participants were enrolled. There were 2 participants in arm 1, but the arm was halted due to safety concerns. The weekly PQ group presented higher hemoglobin decreases in day 3 after first dose (Δhemoglobin = −1.61) than the weekly CQ group (Δhemoglobin = −0.99), but efficacy was superior over the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Postponing the beginning of daily PQ to day 5, when less oxidative stress related to malaria itself would, in theory, decrease hemolytic effects of the drug in G6PDd patients, was not shown to be safe. Weekly CQ avoiding the first relapse did not stop further relapses. Weekly PQ, as already demonstrated in Southeast Asia, was equally safe and efficacious in patients from Latin America.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT03529396.
Digital health programme following rhythm control in patients with atrial fibrillation: comprehensive disease management by self-monitoring, coaching, and telemedicine
Authors: von Degenfeld Georges , Langbein Anke , Boscheri Alessandra , Ziegler Maximilian O , Demlehner Jonas , Weyh Paul , Leber Alexander , Schreier Sandra , Spitzer Stefan G
Published: January 2025

Aims

Digital health is becoming increasingly powerful and available but is frequently not effectively integrated into daily practice. A hybrid programme was developed to provide holistic diagnostic and therapeutic patient care in atrial fibrillation.

Methods and results

Patients (n = 68) were recruited at the electrophysiology centre following successful interventional restoration of sinus rhythm. The 12-month programme consists of the key modalities: (i) self-recording of one-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs), (ii) short-term remote ECG diagnosis and medical advice by video consultation, and (iii) App-based education on lifestyle and risk factor optimization with video consultation. Patients recorded 29 092 ECGs, averaging 1.42 ECGs/day. Recurrent arrhythmia was found and confirmed in 39 patients. In all cases, arrhythmia was first diagnosed based on wearable ECG over the platform, rather than by standard in-office ECG/Holter. No false positive occurred. Patients with recurred arrhythmia were treated by pulmonary vein isolation (n = 17), electric cardioversion (n = 17), antiarrhythmic medication (n = 5), or other interventional procedures (n = 1). Most patients (n = 30) scheduled a video consultation over the App as the first medical touchpoint after arrhythmia occurrence. In 21 patients with arterial hypertension, systolic blood pressure was reduced by 8.0 ± 8.6 mmHg (mean ± SD), P < 0.01. In 25 patients with obesity (body mass index ≥ 30), body weight was reduced by 3.6 ± 5.5 kg (mean ± SD), P < 0.01.

Conclusion

This real-world analysis indicates that the hybrid holistic programme is applicable in daily practice and is actively followed by patients and improves diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes. These promising data need to be confirmed in a controlled randomized study.
Bentham, O’Connell and the Failure of Radical Politics of Law Reform, 1828–1831
Authors: Li Cheng
Published: January 2025

This article examines the efforts of Jeremy Bentham to ally himself with the Irish Catholic leader Daniel O’Connell for the purpose of radical law reform. Between October 1828 and October 1829, Bentham provided three petitions to O’Connell to collect signatures and raise public support in Ireland for legal codification, judicial reforms and an Equity Dispatch Court. O’Connell responded with different levels of enthusiasm, and after July 1830 he was no longer passionate about promoting codification. Meanwhile, Bentham complained privately that O’Connell had been corrupted by the Whigs. It is argued that O’Connell’s public alliance with Bentham should be understood in the context of his personal negotiations with both Whigs and Tories. O’Connell’s support for Bentham was heavily influenced by practical considerations, such as the need to increase his bargaining power for the Irish interest. On the other hand, Bentham developed unrealistic expectations about O’Connell’s commitment to his law reform petitions. It is argued that the alliance between O’Connell and Bentham was mostly tactical, and that its eventual dislocation was the result of conflicting reform priorities and political strategies.
Composition, source appointment, and biomigration of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in the Fu River of Wuhan, China
Authors: Shi Si , Zhang Zijie , Wang Rong , Xue Shiji , Fei Wanyu , Peng Yue’e
Published: January 2025

In this study, a detailed analysis of 20 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) was conducted, in different environmental media of the Fu River, the main sewage storage body, located near the Tianhe Airport in Wuhan, China. The PFAS included 13 perfluorocarboxylic acids (C4–C18), four perfluorosulfonic acids (C4, C6, C8, C10), and three PFAS. In the surface water samples, short-chain PFAS perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS) and perfluorobutanoic acid were the most prevalent and highest concentrations, 168 ng/L and 49.7 ng/L, respectively. However, in the sediment samples, PFBS and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) were the most prevalent and highest concentrations, 840 ng/kg and 1,510 ng/kg, respectively. In addition, PFOS was the most prevalent substance, with the highest concentrations measured at 23.3 μg/kg in egg yolk and 28.1 μg/kg in fish, accounting for proportions of 82% and 88%, respectively. Two new short-chain substitutes of PFOS, 6:2 clorinated polyfluoroalykyl ether sulfonate and 8:2 clorinated polyfluoroalykyl ether sulfonate, emerged in sediment and fish. The PFAS in eggs, fish, and vegetables of the Fu River Basin poses a potential health risk to residents according to the suggested values of the European Food Safety Agency.
Transcriptomic Data Reveal Divergent Paths of Chitinase Evolution Underlying Dietary Convergence in Anteaters and Pangolins
Authors: Allio Rémi , Teullet Sophie , Lutgen Dave , Magdeleine Amandine , Koual Rachid , Tilak Marie-Ka , de Thoisy Benoit , Emerling Christopher A , Lefébure Tristan , Delsuc Frédéric
Published: January 2025

Ant-eating mammals represent a textbook example of convergent evolution. Among them, anteaters and pangolins exhibit the most extreme convergent phenotypes with complete tooth loss, elongated skulls, protruding tongues, and hypertrophied salivary glands producing large amounts of saliva. However, comparative genomic analyses have shown that anteaters and pangolins differ in their chitinase acidic gene (CHIA) repertoires, which potentially degrade the chitinous exoskeletons of ingested ants and termites. While the southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) harbors four functional CHIA paralogs (CHIA1-4), Asian pangolins (Manis spp.) have only one functional paralog (CHIA5). Here, we performed a comparative transcriptomic analysis of salivary glands in 33 placental species, including 16 novel transcriptomes from ant-eating species and close relatives. Our results suggest that salivary glands play an important role in adaptation to an insect-based diet, as expression of different CHIA paralogs is observed in insectivorous species. Furthermore, convergently evolved pangolins and anteaters express different chitinases in their digestive tracts. In the Malayan pangolin, CHIA5 is overexpressed in all major digestive organs, whereas in the southern tamandua, all four functional paralogs are expressed, at very high levels for CHIA1 and CHIA2 in the pancreas and for CHIA3 and CHIA4 in the salivary glands, stomach, liver, and pancreas. Overall, our results demonstrate that divergent molecular mechanisms within the chitinase acidic gene family underlie convergent adaptation to the ant-eating diet in pangolins and anteaters. This study highlights the role of historical contingency and molecular tinkering of the chitin digestive enzyme toolkit in this classic example of convergent evolution.
Horizontal Transfer and Recombination Fuel Ty4 Retrotransposon Evolution in Saccharomyces
Authors: Chen Jingxuan , Garfinkel David J , Bergman Casey M
Published: January 2025

Horizontal transposon transfer (HTT) plays an important role in the evolution of eukaryotic genomes; however, the detailed evolutionary history and impact of most HTT events remain to be elucidated. To better understand the process of HTT in closely related microbial eukaryotes, we studied Ty4 retrotransposon subfamily content and sequence evolution across the genus Saccharomyces using short- and long-read whole genome sequence data, including new PacBio genome assemblies for two Saccharomyces mikatae strains. We find evidence for multiple independent HTT events introducing the Tsu4 subfamily into specific lineages of Saccharomyces paradoxus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Saccharomyces eubayanus, Saccharomyces kudriavzevii and the ancestor of the S. mikatae/Saccharomyces jurei species pair. In both S. mikatae and S. kudriavzevii, we identified novel Ty4 clades that were independently generated through recombination between resident and horizontally transferred subfamilies. Our results reveal that recurrent HTT and lineage-specific extinction events lead to a complex pattern of Ty4 subfamily content across the genus Saccharomyces. Moreover, our results demonstrate how HTT can lead to coexistence of related retrotransposon subfamilies in the same genome that can fuel evolution of new retrotransposon clades via recombination.
Analysis of different strains of the turquoise killifish identify transcriptomic signatures associated with heritable lifespan differences
Authors: Mazzetto Mariateresa , Reichwald Kathrin , Koch Philipp , Groth Marco , Cellerino Alessandro
Published: January 2025

The African turquoise killifish Nothobranchius furzeri represents an emerging short-lived model for aging research. Captive strains of this species are characterized by large differences in lifespan. To identify the gene expression correlates of this lifespan differences, we analyzed a public transcriptomic dataset consisting of four different tissues in addition to embryos. We focused on the GRZ and the MZM0410 captive strains, which show a near twofold difference in lifespan, but similar growth and maturation and validated the results in a newly-generated dataset from a third longer-lived strain. The two strains show distinct transcriptome expression patterns already as embryos and the genotype has a larger effect than age on gene expression, both in terms of number of differentially expressed genes and magnitude of regulation. Network analysis detected RNA processing and histone modifications as the most prominent categories upregulated in GRZ that also showed idiosyncratic expression patterns such as high expression of DND is somatic tissues. The short-lived GRZ strain shows transcriptional aging signatures already at sexual maturity (anticipated aging) in all four tissues suggesting that short lifespan is the results of events that occur early in life rather than the progressive accumulation of strain-dependent differences. The GRZ strain is the most commonly used N. furzeri strain in intervention studies and our results warrant replication of at least key intervention studies in longer-lived strains.
Better mental health and fewer depressive symptoms are associated with greater psychological resilience after hip fracture
Authors: McClennen Taylor , Sharma Hari , Kiel Douglas P , Fortinsky Richard H , Guild Camelia P , Orwig Denise , Magaziner Jay , Binder Ellen F , Berry Sarah D
Published: January 2025

Background

High psychological resilience is associated with improved functional outcomes for older adults recovering from hip fracture. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with increased psychological resilience in older women after hip fracture.

Methods

129 women aged ≥65 years with recent surgically-repaired hip fracture were enrolled in a trial of exercise and testosterone therapy. The Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) measured baseline resilience, and was categorized as low (BRS<4) or high (BRS≥4). Sociodemographic (e.g., education), medical, and neuropsychological factors (e.g., cognition by Short Blessed Test, mental health by a Global Mental Health Score (PROMIS-GMH), and depressive symptoms by Geriatric Depression Score (GDS)) were considered as independent variables. Individual factors were evaluated for their association with resilience using bivariate regression, and those having a significance level of p≤0.10 were entered into age-adjusted multivariate logistic regression models.

Results

57 women (44%) reported high resilience. Neither education nor cognition was significantly associated with resilience. Lower GDS and better PROMIS-GMH scores were associated with high resilience in adjusted models. For every one-point worsening in GDS, the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for high vs. low resilience was 0.76 (95% CI 0.61,0.93). In a model with GDS, PROMIS-GMH, and age, positive mental health remained significantly associated with higher resilience (AOR 1.34, 95% CI 1.14,1.58).

Conclusions

In older women after hip fracture, fewer depressive symptoms and better mental health were associated with higher psychological resilience. Addressing overall mental health when recovering from hip fracture could contribute to increasing psychological resilience thereby maximizing recovery potential.
Wound Healing After Vaginal Delivery, Episiotomy, and Cesarean Section Delivery Among Women With IBD: Results From the PIANO Registry
Authors: Lewin Sara , Long Millie , Cohen Russell , Scherl Ellen , Wolf Douglas , Mahadevan Uma
Published: January 2025

Background

Women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) face complexities of disease management during pregnancy and childbirth. Apprehension regarding vaginal delivery in pregnant individuals with IBD persists due to concern for perianal disease and perineal trauma. The incidence of poor wound healing after obstetric anal sphincter injury is approximately 4% in the general population. In an IBD population, risk of developing and difficulty healing perineal tears and episiotomy is not well described.

Methods

In a multicenter prospective cohort of pregnant individuals with IBD, we collected demographic information, IBD disease and treatment history, pregnancy and labor history, and reports of delayed wound healing >1 month from episiotomy, vaginal tear, or Cesarean (C-) section. Prospective data were collected using questionnaires that were administered each trimester of pregnancy, at delivery, and in the year postpartum.

Results

There were 743 patients in the PIANO registry who answered questions pertaining to postpartum wound healing, with 330 (44%) reporting a C-section and 413 (56%) reporting a vaginal delivery. Of 119 C-section deliveries assessed for delayed wound healing, only 1 (0.8%) patient reported this complication. Episiotomies were reported in 59 (14%) patients, with 9 (15%) reporting delayed wound healing. Vaginal tears were reported in 252 (64%) patients. Delayed wound healing from vaginal tear was reported in 9% of patients. Use of immunomodulators was associated with delayed wound healing from episiotomy (33% vs 0% for those on no medications, P = .024). No difference was seen in wound healing time for episiotomy with other medications, including corticosteroids, anti-tumor necrosis factor, or anti-integrin use. Delayed wound healing from vaginal tear was not associated with any class of IBD medication.

Conclusions

Episiotomy was a common occurrence in patients with IBD. Immunomodulator, but not biologic, use was found to be associated with delayed wound healing. This association could reflect a direct medication effect on episiotomy wound healing or inadequate treatment of underlying active disease prior to delivery. Vaginal tears were also common but delayed wound healing was not associated with IBD therapy. C-section occurred at high rates, particularly in Crohn’s disease patients, with no reported delays in postpartum wound healing.
Application of wide-field electromagnetic method for skarn-type polymetallic deposits exploration in the Yemaquan, Qinghai Province, China
Authors: Wang Jinhai , Pan Tong , Li Diquan , Zhang Heng , Zhan Jun
Published: January 2025

The Qimantag region in the East Kunlun Mountains is a significant skarn-type polymetallic metallogenic belt in China. With the exhaustion of shallow deposits due to extensive geological and exploration work, there is a pressing need to explore deeper buried ore bodies. The desert soil cover limits the effectiveness of geological and geochemical surveys. Traditional magnetic and gravity surveys have been the primary methods for early exploration but are inadequate for deep exploration. This study applies the Wide-field Electromagnetic Method (WFEM) to mineral exploration in the Yemaquan area of Qimantag region. Developed from the Controlled Source Audio-frequency Magnetotellurics (CSAMT), WFEM uses a vertical or horizontal dipole source to generate electromagnetic responses. It calculates apparent resistivity from a single observed parameter, significantly reducing data acquisition costs. The method is especially effective for identifying deep metal deposits under thick cover. WFEM data were recorded and then processed using the Gauss-Newton method for 2D inversion, followed by 3D kriging interpolation to generate a resistivity model at a depth of 1000 meters in the study area. The results revealed the distribution and contact relationships of sedimentary strata and rock bodies, correlating well with existing geological and geophysical data. Drilling verified the presence of iron, copper, and other polymetallic ore bodies, demonstrating the potential of WFEM for mineral exploration in areas with weak magnetic anomalies. This study validates the effectiveness of WFEM in detecting deep polymetallic deposits in the Qimantag area and provides valuable reference for future exploration in similar geological environments.
Colonic herniation through the foramen of Winslow—to close the defect or not?
Authors: Gitlin Saige , Hakmi Hazim , Pyke Owen , Brathwaite Collin E , Levine Jun , Kella Venkata
Published: January 2025

Internal herniation through the foramen of Winslow (FoW) is a rare, life-threatening diagnosis. We present a case of intestinal obstruction due to herniation of the ileum, cecum, appendix, and ascending colon through the FoW. We reduced the herniation using a small colotomy and preserved the entirety of the bowel. We closed the FoW and colotomy and secured the bowel to the lateral abdominal wall by suture cecopexy. Due to the rarity of this pathology, the literature remains unclear about the benefits of prophylactic measures, hence, we recommend continued reporting of cases and research on prophylactic measures. Further, our own treatment strategy outlined in this report may provide further insight into the misdiagnosis and management of FoW hernias.
Ruptured distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysm presenting with acute subdural hematoma without subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Yamazaki Michio , Aoki Taisei , Matano Fumihiro , Murai Yasuo
Published: January 2025

We report a case of distal anterior cerebral artery (DACA) aneurysm presenting with subdural hematoma (SDH) without subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). A patient in his fifties presented with headache. Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery magnetic resonance imaging revealed SDH in the interhemispheric fissure and left frontotemporal region. SAH was not detected. Computed tomographic angiography revealed aneurysms in the left internal carotid artery (ICA) and DACA. The patient underwent frontotemporal craniotomy, which confirmed an unruptured ICA aneurysm, followed by bilateral frontal craniotomy for clipping of DACA aneurysm. The left DACA aneurysm was identified as the source of the SDH. Intraoperative findings showed adhesion between the aneurysm body and falx cerebri, explaining the SDH formation. Literature review identified only six reported cases of SDH without SAH due to DACA aneurysm. Evidence suggests that DACA aneurysms have a relatively higher propensity to cause SDH without SAH, likely due to the anatomical characteristics of the parent vessel and aneurysm projection.
Lumbosacral posterior meningocele in adult patient: a case report
Authors: Wahid Ali Tarik Abdul , Abdulghani Zahraa Monjed , Al-Fatlawi Nabeel , Al-Badri Sajjad Ghanim
Published: January 2025

Spinal dysraphism is the incomplete fusion of the neural arch, which can be seen as an occult or open neural tube defect. Meningoceles are a form of open neural tube defect characterized by cystic dilatation of the meninges containing cerebrospinal fluid without the involvement of neural tissue. Neurosurgical intervention is necessary in the newborn period since survival in advancing ages is often impossible. Therefore, meningoceles are rarely reported in adulthood. Here, we discussed a case of a 23-year-old female who presented with a meningocele in the lumbosacral area since birth, which had not been operated on. Surgical management and intraoperative findings are also discussed.
The effect of rice and edible starch compound ratios, starch type, and rice nutrients on Burkholderia gladioli pathovar cocovenenans growth and bongkrekic acid production in wet rice noodles and starch products
Authors: Huang Jingmin , Huang Jianfei , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Leshi , Lin Zeyu , Liu Xiaole , Lai Xintian , Kang Lirong , Liao Jingru , Chen Jing
Published: January 2025

Bongkrekic acid (BA) toxin, produced by Burkholderia gladioli pathovar cocovenenans bacteria, has been implicated in foodborne illness outbreaks. BA poisoning is associated with rice noodle consumption; hence, this study investigated B. cocovenenans growth and BA production in wet rice noodles comprising varying starch ratios, starch types, rice nutrients, and saccharides. Noodles with 100% rice flour had BA concentrations 47.7 times higher than that of 100% starch samples (30.53 ± 1.08 mg∙kg−1 vs 0.65 ± 0.03 mg∙kg−1). Moreover, protein powder and glucose significantly promoted BA production (P < 0.05). Corn starch with 120 μl∙100 ml−1 rice oil had a BA concentration of 0.23 ± 0.01 mg∙kg−1, which was 31% lower than those without rice oil. Acid-treated starch had a BA concentration 7.24 times higher than that of other natural starch and no BA was detected in acetate starch. Of the carbohydrates tested, only hexacarbon sugars stimulated BA production. Overall, the degree of carbohydrate hydrolysis critically influenced BA formation. Increasing the use of edible starch and reducing the amount of polysaccharides hydrolyzed into monosaccharides during production will mitigate the risk of B. cocovenenans-related food poisoning in rice noodles and starch products. Rice oil serves as a possible additive to hinder BA production.
Constraining γ-ray dissipation site in gravitationally lensed quasar – PKS 1830−211
Authors: Agarwal Sushmita , Shukla Amit , Sharma Pranjali
Published: January 2025

Variable $\gamma$-ray flares up to minute time-scales reflect extreme particle acceleration sites. However, for high-redshift blazars, the detection of such rapid variations remains limited by current telescope sensitivities. Gravitationally lensed blazars serve as powerful tools to probe $\gamma$-ray production zones in distant sources, with time delays between lensed signals providing crucial insights into the spatial distribution of emission regions relative to the lens’s mass-weighted centre. We have utilized 15 yr of Fermi–LAT $\gamma$-ray data from direction of PKS 1830–211 to understand the origin of flaring high-energy production zone at varying flux states. To efficiently estimate the (lensed) time delay, we used a machine learning-based tool – the Gaussian Process regression algorithm, in addition to – Autocorrelation function and Double power spectrum. We found a consistent time delay across all flaring activity states, indicating a similar location for the $\gamma$-ray emission zone, possibly within the radio core. The estimated time delay of approximately 20 d for the five flaring epochs was significantly shorter than previously estimated radio delays. This suggests that the $\gamma$-ray emission zone is closer to the central engine, in contrast to the radio emission zone, which is expected to be much farther away. A linear relationship between lag and magnification has been observed in the identified source and echo flares. Our results suggest that the $\gamma$-ray emission zone originates from similar regions away from the site of radio dissipation.
Well-being and coping: Key aspects of unmet need of people living with glioma
Authors: Baddeley Elin , Sivell Stephanie , Retzer Ameeta , Nelson Annmarie , Bulbeck Helen , Seddon Kathy , Grant Robin , Adams Richard , Watts Colin , Aiyegbusi Olalekan Lee , Calvert Melanie , Byrne Anthony
Published: January 2025

Background

The challenges and needs of people with brain tumors are complex and unique, particularly—but not limited to—the neurocognitive impacts they experience. These effects are subsequently impactful on their primary caregivers. Evidence suggests people with glioma and their caregivers experience a range of unmet needs in the clinical care setting.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews with people across the spectrum of glioma, and their caregivers in the United Kingdom, as part of a study exploring core outcomes for use across glioma trials. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Nineteen people with glioma and seven caregivers were interviewed. Three major themes were identified: (1) Well-being, support and coping, (2) Communication and care, and (3) Impact on caregivers. People with glioma and their caregivers experience uncertainty, and progressive impacts long after diagnosis. People with glioma across the spectrum of the disease have many challenges in common including long-term adjustments, impacts of glioma and its treatment, and communication/information gaps including prognostic uncertainty. These impacts also affect caregivers. While most patients and caregivers engaged in self-directed approaches to mitigate the impacts of glioma, gaps in follow-up support for lasting effects were a major source of frustration, impacting on ability to cope and manage the effects of glioma.

Conclusions

These interviews highlight the unmet needs of people with glioma and their caregivers. A consistent, systematic, and focused approach to assessing the needs of glioma patients and their caregivers in the clinical setting and support for long-term adjustment is required.
Empirical networks are sparse: Enhancing multiedge models with zero-inflation
Authors: Casiraghi Giona , Andres Georges
Published: January 2025

Real-world networks are sparse. As we show in this article, even when a large number of interactions is observed, most node pairs remain disconnected. We demonstrate that classical multiedge network models, such as the G(N,p), configuration models, and stochastic block models, fail to accurately capture this phenomenon. To mitigate this issue, zero-inflation must be integrated into these traditional models. Through zero-inflation, we incorporate a mechanism that accounts for the excess number of zeroes (disconnected pairs) observed in empirical data. By performing an analysis on all the datasets from the Sociopatterns repository, we illustrate how zero-inflated models more accurately reflect the sparsity and heavy-tailed edge count distributions observed in empirical data. Our findings underscore that failing to account for these ubiquitous properties in real-world networks inadvertently leads to biased models that do not accurately represent complex systems and their dynamics.
Catch, Restrict, and Release: The Real Story of Bank Bailouts
Authors: Berger Allen N , Nistor Simona , Ongena Steven , Tsyplakov Sergey
Published: January 2025

Bank bailouts are not “one-shot” events, as often portrayed, but rather dynamic processes with phases over time. Regulators “catch” financially distressed banks and provide aid, “restrict” these banks’ activities for ex ante unknown lengths of time, and then “release” the banks from the restrictions when capital ratios reach sufficiently healthy levels. This catch-restrict-release bailout approach is employed globally and applies to both major bailout methods capital injections (CIs) and debt guarantees (DGs). We model how a regulator that maximizes a social welfare function that includes the value of the bank and expected costs to the rest of the financial system and the real economy of its default might design and implement catch-restrict-release and test model predictions. Our data laboratory includes multiple EU nations over the financially stressful 2008-2014 period when many bailouts occurred. Findings suggest regulators bail out banks in a qualitatively consistent fashion with maximizing the social welfare function, yielding policy implications and directions for future research. (JEL G01, G21, G28, H81)
Exploring novel drug targets for erectile dysfunction through plasma proteome with genome
Authors: Qiu Zeming , Cheng Long , Wang Qinyuan , Dong Zhilong
Published: January 2025

Background

Currently, the treatment and prevention of erectile dysfunction (ED) remain highly challenging.

Aim

This study conducted a systematic druggable genome-wide Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to identify potential therapeutic targets for ED.

Methods

A proteome-wide MR approach was employed to investigate the causal effects of plasma proteins on ED. Subsequently, summary data–based MR (SMR) analysis was performed to identify potential drug targets for ED. Enrichment analysis and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks revealed the functional characteristics and biological relevance of these potential therapeutic targets. Drug prediction and molecular docking studies were conducted to validate the pharmacological activity of these identified targets. Finally, a systematic MR analysis was conducted to assess upstream intervention factors, such as lifestyles and diseases, associated with these targets, providing insights for the prevention and treatment of ED.

Outcomes

This study identified several potential therapeutic targets for ED.

Results

Proteome-wide MR analysis revealed that 126 genetically predicted plasma proteins were causally associated with ED. SMR analysis indicated that TMEM9 was associated with an increased risk of ED, while MDH1, NQO1, QDPR, ARL4D, TAGLN2, and PPP1R14A were associated with a decreased risk of ED. These potential targets were primarily enriched in metabolic and redox-related biological processes. Molecular docking indicated that the predicted drugs had favorable binding affinities with the proteins, further confirming the pharmacological value of these targets. Finally, 6 plasma proteins (MDH1, NQO1, QDPR, ARL4D, TAGLN2, and TMEM9) could be modulated by lifestyle- and disease-related factors.

Clinical Implications

This study provides new insights into the etiology and potential drug targets of ED and contributes to the development of more effective treatments for ED and reducing the cost of drug development.

Strengths and Limitations

This is a systematic and extensive study exploring the causal relationship between plasma proteins and ED, which helps to provide a comprehensive perspective to understand the role of potential targets in ED. However, we did not conduct this study in different types of ED or different stages of ED progression.

Conclusion

In summary, this study identified 7 plasma proteins causally associated with ED and provided new insights into the etiology and potential drug targets for ED.
Anti-Apartheid at the periphery: a case study of grassroots activism in Dundee, 1967–1990
Authors: Graham Matthew , Fevre Christopher
Published: January 2025

The histories of the global anti-apartheid struggle, and particularly the British Anti-Apartheid Movement (AAM), have predominantly been examined through a transnational and national prism, creating an inaccurate impression of a highly centralized and homogeneous movement. We argue, however, that refining the analysis to focus on the local setting reveals a more complex and diverse movement, which has not been fully captured in the existing scholarship. Using Dundee as a case study, this article charts the emergence, character, and evolution of anti-apartheid sentiment and activity in this small, peripheral industrial Scottish city. By exploring student activities in the 1970s, the brief but influential presence of Southern African exiles in the city, the radical politics of Dundee AAM (DAAM), and the symbolic solidarity of civic actors, the article demonstrates where local AAM group autonomy and regionally specific conditions intersected to shape the distinct trajectory of anti-apartheid in Dundee. Within this local history, we uncover divergences with wider national trends, most notably DAAM’s accommodation of the radical Revolutionary Communist Group, which complicates dominant narratives of entryism and tension between the far-left and the AAM. The Dundee example demonstrates that analysing anti-apartheid activities through a local lens establishes alternative readings of the multi-layered and divergent nature of British activism and of twentieth-century international solidarity movements more broadly.
Anniversary fever? History and the culture of NHS celebration
Authors: Bivins Roberta , Thomson Mathew
Published: January 2025

Delivered a day after Britain’s National Health Service (NHS) reached its 75th year since its opening on the Appointed Day of 5 July 1948, the Pimlott Lecture for 2023 explored the culture of NHS anniversary-making. What can the marking of these anniversaries tell us about changing attitudes towards the service, and indeed, the British state? Here, examining evidence from the media, government archives, and Mass Observation, we argue that NHS anniversaries have long functioned as points of reflection but that their role as moments of national celebration and even communion has come to the fore only recently and culminated in the apparent ‘anniversary fever’ of 2018. We will explore the reasons behind the growing public fervour, what it can tell us, and the lessons offered by our work on this (still) best-loved of British institutions for historians working on highly politicized objects in ‘fevered’ times.